goldendoodle puppies for sale in waterford michigan

There are two of us here at Puppy Love. This enables us to have several dogs in our breeding program and still ensure that each one gets the love and attention they deserve. We raise our dogs in our homes where they are part of our busy families. We both have five kids each who help to love and train our dogs and socialize the puppies. When we purchased our first Australian Labradoodle about 12 years ago, we were surprised to find that everything we had been told about this wonderful creature called the Labradoodle was true! They are friendly and fun loving, making them a wonderful family pet for children as well as adults. They are highly intelligent, easy to train and very intuitive, making them great for animal assisted therapy. We have sold many puppies over the years for therapy purposes to families who have kids or adults with special needs and also for therapy use in health care or educational settings. They truly are amazing animals and they will have you wrapped around their little paws before you know it. We breed only true Labradoodles or the Australian Multigenerational Labradoodles. We do not breed any early cross labradoodles or any labs to poodles as we have found that there is not enough consistency in temperament as well as coat. We like to be able to ensure that all of our puppies will have great personalities combined with fleece or silky soft coats that are allergy friendly. Not all Labradoodles are Created Equal! Our labradoodles are members of our families and have really enriched our lives. We want to bring them, a wonderful family pet and companion to your home. If you have allergies and have previously been unable to enjoy a dog for a pet, our puppies are the perfect choice for you. We only breed pure Australian Labradoodles. Because these are multi generational dogs, they have a much better, hypo allergenic, very little to non shedding coat. Most of the early crosses have a tendancy to shed. With multigenerational Labradoodles you get the benefit of may years of selective breeding by the breeders that started it all in Australia. In terms of Labradoodles, you really do get what you pay for! We are not a kennel. Our Australian Labradoodle puppies are hand whelped in our home and spend the first weeks of their lives in our Master Bedrooms where they and the moms feel the most safe and secure. At 3 weeks they move into the main living area of the house. From here they can see and hear just about everything that goes on in our homes on a day to day basis. Our children, who range in ages from toddler to young adult help to love and socialize the puppies until they are ready to be adopted and go home with you. Puppies raised in this environment make the best pets because they have been given the best possible start. They will enjoy running with you, swimming with you, they are great at fetch, highly intelligent and easily trained. When you are all done playing, what the Labradoodle enjoys the most is a nice, warm cuddle with you! Start your summer off in the best way possible by adding a new puppy to your family. Get out and enjoy the beautiful season with your new best friend! Contact us for details. Testimonials Our experience with Puppy Love Labradoodles has been a very good one. Right from our first call from Darice asking us all kinds of questions about our home life so that she could decide if we were the right people to purchase one of their puppies. We could not be happier with Darice and her family's professional and caring help. No questions have gone unanswered. We would not hesitate to buy another puppy from them. Contact Details. I work with a number breeders in the Dallas - Fort Worth metroplex, helping them create beautiful imagery of their puppies and breeding pairs for websites, social media and other branding needs. Responsible dog breeders invest heavily in both time and money to ensure the health and well being of their animals and Endless Pawsabilities is no exception. As a dog trainer I'm always keen to chat with them on their latest puppy developmental regimes; from early neurological stimulation to desensitization and socialization, they are an exemplary breeder many of their puppies go on to become service and support animals and their dedication shows in their litters as with these little reindeer. As soon as the litter had been delivered shortly after Christmas hence the holiday themed names , Endless Pawsabilities scheduled their studio session, and as soon as I learned there was a mixture of yellows, chocolates and a black, I started counting the days until I met them! It's "photographer's choice" this week in the Pet Photographer 52 Week Project and so I thought I'd share some adorable puppies with you. You're welcome :.

As a medium to large-sized dog breed, Boxers need more time to fill out and reach their full size than smaller dog breeds. As a general rule, expect your Boxer to grow until they are 18 to 24 months old. Keep in mind that this range is an estimate, so there are always exceptions. Image Source: Canva How big should a 6-month-old Boxer be? A 6-month-old male Boxer should weigh around 41 to 48 pounds, while a 6-month-old female Boxer will weigh about 39 to 44 pounds. According to Care. For a male Boxer puppy, this would be around 17 to 19 inches tall. Pro Tip: Check out this downloadable new puppy checklist covering topics like vaccination schedules, setting up the home for a new puppy, teething, veterinary visits, and more! How much bigger will my Boxer get? There are several ways to estimate how much bigger your Boxer will grow. If your Boxer is less than two years old, they are likely still growing. Some Boxers stop growing closer to 18 months, but many Boxers will continue to fill out in weight and body size until they are two years old. A puppy will rarely be larger than either parent, so this can give you a clearer idea of their maximum size. Do their paws look oversized compared to their legs and the rest of their body? This is a strong sign that your Boxer is still growing and filling out! What is the size of a full-grown Boxer? According to the American Kennel Club Official Boxer Standards , a full-grown male Boxer will stand around 23 to 25 inches tall, while a female Boxer will stand about .A fully grown male Boxer will weigh around 60 to 70 pounds, with their female counterpart will weigh about 55 to 65 pounds. As with many things, prevention is always better than treatment. Taking your Boxer to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do for their health, along with consistent love and care at home. One of the best things you can do at home is brush your dog's teeth regularly to help prevent painful periodontal disease and avoid pricey dental treatments in the future. Periodontal disease can cause bad breath and oral pain for your pup and may require your Boxer to have a dental cleaning or tooth extractions under anesthesia at some point in their lives if not attended to at home. Keeping your Boxer at a healthy weight is crucial for their longevity, overall health, and happiness. If your Boxer is overweight, talk to your veterinarian to develop a weight loss strategy so that you can get them back on track. Consult with your veterinarian about the ideal food and exercise for your Boxer. Like all dogs, Boxers have certain conditions that they are prone to. Boxers are a purebred dog breed prone to heart problems, like cardiomyopathy, heart valve narrowing, and congenital heart defects. Brachycephalic syndrome increases their risk of respiratory distress, allergies, heatstroke, and sinus problems. Regular veterinarian appointments are crucial in finding and treating illness early to give your Boxer the healthiest and longest life possible. Unfortunately, veterinary bills can be costly with many treatments for emergencies and illnesses, such as heart problems, being thousands of dollars to treat. When surveyed, .The financial safety net provided by pet insurance is why pet insurance is worth it for many pet parents. Keep in mind that even healthy behaviors, like exercise, can be overdone. Consult with your veterinarian about how much exercise is prudent. Medium to large-sized dogs that are still growing may suffer from joint damage if they are overexercised. Make a plan with your veterinarian today to provide your Boxer with the ideal amount of exercise to keep them lean, healthy, and happy. Boxer puppies grow into strong and sturdy adults that make fun-loving, often silly companions, and fierce protectors. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Boxer Newborn Puppy Care Overview If you have had a litter of Boxer puppies at your home and you are in charge of taking care of a newborn Boxer puppy, much attention must be taken during the first 8 weeks. From the moment of birth until the pups are at least 2 months old, a person must be close by and ready for any situation. Each week will bring new changes and responsibilities. This is a crucial time for care that can shape the health of the dog for its lifetime. How to Know if a Boxer Puppy is Getting Enough Milk The amount of times that a newborn puppy drinks milk from its mother varies from pup to pup. The important aspect is to know if a puppy is receiving enough throughout the day. Sometimes larger newborns will push their way to Mama and smaller puppies may not be getting enough milk. Some puppies may not be strong enough to suckle from smaller nipples some will be larger than others or strong enough to suckle once other pups have done so, and as the milk supply runs lower a puppy needs to suckle harder. How do you know if a Boxer puppy is getting enough milk? It is important to weigh each puppy. This can be done with a baby scale or electronic kitchen scale. Of course, take great care when weighing them. Always use the same type of blanket or cushioning on the scale so that you always get an accurate weight and the blanket does not affect the weight Weigh each puppy 2 times per day: AM and PM Keep careful track of who is who! You can do this by using a dot of white-out fluid applied to the ear in a certain area or other gentle marking method If a puppy shows no weight gain each day, you must take steps to ensure that pup receives more nutrition If a newborn is not gaining weight: Give the larger puppies a supplement Allow the smaller puppy to drink first; the larger puppies will have more strength to suck harder to retrieve their milk If There is a Weight Loss: This can be extremely dangerous. During the first few days it will not be milk; it will be Colostrum. This is a highly nutritional fluid that gives vital antibodies to the puppy. The puppy will sleep almost all the time, when not drinking. The Boxer pup will also make soft noises. As long as the puppy's body is warm and you feel him or her breathing naturally, all should be fine. A puppy this young will not be able to eliminate on its own. The mother will lick the pup to stimulate the expulsion of bowel or urine. Do not be shocked if the dam then eats this. The newborn Boxer puppy will have its eyes closed. They will stay this way for about 10 to 15 days. The umbilical cord will still be damp and certainly not ready to fall off. Day 2 It is perfectly normal for a Boxer puppy to lose weight on its 2nd day of life. Carefully watch for any Boxer newborn that seems to be getting pushed out of the way by other pups and unable to drink from mom. If this is happening, remove the other puppies after they feed and allow the hungry puppy to nurse alone, not bothered by their brothers and sisters. Day 3 Talk to your veterinarian regarding docking the tail , if you have decided to do so. This is often done on day 3. This decision should be carefully thought about. In addition, the Boxer puppy's cord will be dry and just about ready to fall off. Dewclaws, if removed, are usually done so on this day by your dog's experienced veterinarian. Week 1 Puppies should be weighed each day. This can be done by preparing a small basket, lined with a soft and clean towel. The basket can be placed on the scale first, with the weight noted. Then, the puppy should be placed inside the basket. Subtract the weight of the basket to have the exact weight of your Boxer puppy. There should be an increase each day. If not, be sure to immediately contact your dog's veterinarian. Nails grow very quickly and should be trimmed as often as each day if needed. A clotting solution, such as Kwik Stop should be used in case the quick of the nail is cut by accident something to carefully avoid. As the pup matures, many owners find that a grinder tool works much better than a clipper. Some dogs need to learn to tolerate the noise, but once they do, grinding down nails can be fast and easy. Week 2 The eyes of the Boxer puppy may begin to open. This is a slow process in which they will open bigger and for more time each day. Puppies will still be nesting near mom. You should take a bit more time to handle the puppies. This is done to slowly allow the mother to become used to you holding them and for the puppies to begin bonding with you. Week 3 The Boxer puppy's eyes should be completely open. Ears will be open now, as well. The ear canal should be fully formed. This is a bit of a noisy time, as the Boxer puppies will begin to find their "voices" and begin to bark. A 3 week old Boxer will have an urge to leave the whelping box. They will have an instinctual urge to eliminate outside of their resting and sleeping area. One side of the box can be removed, with newspapers placed right outside. A 2nd box can be connected to the 1st whelping box. This will allow the pups to have room to romp around and play. This will also give the Boxer mom time to rest without her puppies jumping all over her. Allowing the puppies to play with each other in a safe and comfortable box is a necessary part of the first socialization they need. Week 4 When does a Boxer puppy begin eating solid food? The weaning process begins just about now, in Week 4. You may also wish to offer the very health option of homemade meals of only fresh ingredients. Start with small amounts. It will be a slow yet steady process for a puppy's digestive system to become used to solid food. Extra heating can be removed. The room should be at a comfortable 72 F .Week 5 You should begin introducing small toys to the puppy. The weight of the puppy should still be checked, this can be done every other day now. Normal weight varies very much but should fall in the range of 2 lbs. Feeding should change slightly, with more puppy food and less water. The dam may want to spend more time away from the puppies. This is where an owner must step in and have much more interaction with the puppies. While still fragile, they should be more than happy to be patted, cuddled and played with. Week 6 A Boxer puppy will be eating quite a bit of puppy dog food than before. Too young to be house trained , this may be a messy week or 2 since bowel movements will become more frequent. While it is too early to expect a puppy to be trained yet, if the weather is warm and day this is a great week to introduce a puppy to the outside world. If you are caring for more than 1 pup, take each one outside separately or 2 at the most. Always keep the Boxer on a leash and beware of any dogs in the area. Allow them to become used to what grass feels like! Allow a pup to enjoy the warmth of the sun and the refreshment of a cool breeze. Week 7 Puppies may not be nursing at all any more. They should be spending quite a bit of time with you and with the other puppies. Going outside should be a daily routine. The dam should be brought outside with the pups; she will use this time to teach them skills. This is the time to be very close to a dog's normal routine of grooming , feeding, exercise and play time. Week 8 This is the week that the puppies will receive their 1st vaccinations. If you will not be keeping the puppies, now is the time to begin the process of finding them a good home. All prospective owners should be evaluated fully. Make home visits if possible. Do not be afraid to ask many questions. If you will be keeping all or some of the puppies, now is the time to fall into normal care for your dog. Housebreaking training can begin as well as falling back into your normal schedule. See Also: Boxer puppy care - Overview of what is needed to take great care of a new Boxer puppy. Boxer dog questions and answers - Round-up of some of the most common issues and care elements with the Boxer breed. This will be the age when Boxer newborn is fully weaned and ready to go to his new home. His world expands at this time. Some have a difficult adjustment leaving littermates and dam and transitioning to their new family. A planned introduction to the home will set a good foundation for introduction to other situations. Housebreaking should begin at this age. With an excellent plan and follow-through, expect it to take 4 to 6 weeks for your Boxer to be doing well in this regard. Command training simple commands can be worked in with housebreaking and other daily activities. For example a 2 month old Boxer puppy can learn to sit while his harness and leash is being put on and then learn that walking over to the designated chosen area equals a trip to the bathroom. Sleep may be erratic at this time and a Boxer puppy can sleep as little as 9 hours per day rare or up to 18 hours. Most will take quite a few naps during the day and then wake up 1 to 2 times per night. We've seen 2 month old little ones sleep right through the night, but it is rare - in these cases, the dog is able to enter deep REM sleep quickly and stay there, keeping the number of nap times to a minimum. This is the minimum age a dog must be in order to enter a dog show event. Many clubs, such as the AKC require a dog to be 6 months old; however if you truly want to show your Boxer, you may do so at 3 months with many other dog clubs. By this age, the pup has a good idea of his home environment and since the rounds of puppy shots are almost done, owners should plan on how they will proceed in regard to introduction to the world. To a dog, his world is as big as the owners choose. For some, it is just the neighborhood, for others it is the entire town! The reason that we say "plan" is because how a pup is introduced to other dogs, people and new environments affect how the dog reacts and responds. A planned transition to new elements is a huge part of Socialization Training. During this stage, some owners become a bit concerned if their Boxer is not barking ; however this is not a super vocal breed he makes lots of noises like groans and even some purrs, but doesn't typically bark at every little thing. A quiet puppy will often outgrown this and find their voice as they mature. It is at that time that a Boxer will bark when someone comes to the house, etc. By 1 year, if owners follow through, the Boxer is well trained, for both commands simple and complex and house training. Still, the dog has learned the basic workings of the world. He has been trained to know where his belongings are, who you consider to be friend or foe and is very used to his daily schedule. This is a great Boxer age, the dog looks young, still has the mentality of a puppy with playfulness, etc. You'll have a 40 to 55 pound 20 to 25 kg size puppy jumping on you and acting silly. Females will be on the lower end, males on the higher end. The body structure is slim, the chest is still relatively narrow. Over the course of this year, from the beginning of year 1 to the beginning of year 2, most will gain an additional 15 to 20 pounds 6. Height will increase. The most noticeable physical change will be the widening of the chest, a sure tell sign of a 2 year old adult. It is not uncommon for a Boxer dog to seem too skinny during a quick, temporary phase around this mark. Generally from 14 to 22 months old, a Boxer may have some visible ribs and appear too slim as he struggles to catch up to a quick growth spurt. For most, this is nothing to be concerned about. This is a huge milestone. At 2 years old, a Boxer is considered to be an adult. The dog will be at his adult weight and height. If you are offering commercial food, now is the time to switch to an adult formula. Temperament will gradually change. That playful puppy temperament will slowly turn more serious, but even older adults can have a sense of humor. That puppy that used to leap after butterflies in the field may change into the adult that stands proud and strong, scanning the yard for trespassers. The Boxer will now begin to age at a more steady rate. Still active, yet fully trained, this is a wonderful stage. By this age, status in the house if full established. Other family members may have come and gone kids off to college, a new roommate moves in, etc. However, if the dog was properly trained, he knew, throughout any changes, that his place was as Beta to his Alpha human leader. A Boxer dog is considered to be a senior at the age of 7 or 8 years old. Since there is no official age, it is the veterinarian who makes this declaration. Though, even if it has not been declared, with this breed typically living to a range of 9 to 12 years, 9 years is about as long as you can extend this before you dub your Boxer a senior. It is important to recognize this transition, so that geriatric care needs can be met. Regular visits will normally increase from 1 time per year to twice a year. Changes will happen once again to the diet, moving over to one that is a bit lower in fat, yet higher in fiber. This helps a less active dog maintain weight and fiber is one element that aids in digestion. A geriatric screening will check for kidney function. A Boxer dog with decreased kidney function should be fed a lower protein diet. The vitamin and mineral supplement will now switch to a senior formula as well. Don't let the senior age label fool you, Boxers at this age should still be taken for a daily walk for exercise , will enjoy outings to the beach, etc. One thing to keep in mind is that an older dog will sometimes have less tolerance for puppies and young children. It is a good idea to have a designated area for your senior Boxer to retreat to, should he desire.Older dogs still like to see the family and be aware of comings and goings, but will often want to retreat when youngsters or puppies are at play. Each dog has his own tolerance for the loud noises and commotion that accompanies younger humans and dogs. The average life span of a Boxer is years old. At this age, a senior dog most likely has lived through some health issues. A dog of this age will most likely have some arthritis. Movement may become difficult, it is suggested to have steps and ramps for the dog if he or she is used to climbing up onto your bed or the couch. The dog bed should be evaluated for comfort and support. An orthopedic bed is highly recommended. Any time after this age that your dog is still with you is a blessing. Some Boxers live late into their teens; however you should prepare yourself that your dog is nearing the end of his life cycle. Related: Oldest Boxer Dogs in the World - Though this breed generally lives 9 to 12 years, some Boxers have reached into their teens.

Welcome to Silver Family Farm Labs! My name is Stephanie and along with my husband Todd and our 4 daughters, we raise and breed AKC registered black, yellow, chocolate, charcoal dilute black , champagne dilute yellow , and silver dilute chocolate Labrador Retrievers in Central Iowa. My husband farms and I am lucky enough to help out on the farm with him. Our puppies will come with AKC limited or full registration paperwork, 3x deworming, dew claws removed, 1st puppy shot, 2 year written guarantee sales contract on hips, elbows and eyes, AKC Reunite microchip, a 5 lb. The puppies are hand held from day 1 and played with daily as they get older. Our labs live with us on our farm and a part of our daily lives. They are our pets first and foremost and we consider the lab pups we bring into the world and their families our extended family. We hope to remain in contact with you to watch your new lab puppies grow! We love and appreciate all the pictures and updates you feel you would like to share with us! I tend to post everything on there. Puppy Parents. AKC English Labrador Retrievers Labrador Breeder in Iowa Their beautiful temperaments, good looks, and eagerness to please are just some of the reasons people love the labrador retriever! He carries all colors and has the best of both parents as he matures. Clear by Embark DNA panel as well. Lynus hails from Sterling Creek Labradors and is joining us to further our improvements. We are thrilled to bring this pure white boy into the CaveInn! Lynus is clear of all genetic known diseases as tested by Paw Print Genetics. His sire Elway is a son of Nash and we expect Rueben to carry on the beautiful English style improvement Labrador. He has a lot of growing to do but each day we see the beginning of a handsome black sire. We are hopeful for just about every color Lab puppy from Rueben in .Her pedigree is decorated with Champion bloodline. We are thrilled to also have her clear of all hereditary diseases via Paw Print and Embark panel testing. Her puppies have great coats, excellent temperament, and easy to train. Paired with our Cave they have produced awesome charcoal and champagne puppies. Results show her clear of all genetic diseases common to the breed. The genetic health screen panel was done by Embark. She carries all colors and is clear of all gemetic diseases via Embark. PennHip scored average for the breed. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. Labrador Retrievers have been the most popular dog breed in America for 30 years and that popularity holds for the state of Iowa as well. Because bird hunting is also popular in this state, many Iowa Labrador breeders focus on producing strong hunting and retrieving dogs as opposed to show and pet dogs. Until recently, Iowa was one of the worst states in America when it came to animal welfare laws. While stronger protections were passed in , you should continue to screen breeders carefully before you buy a puppy to be certain you are getting a healthy puppy from a clean, safe kennel. Shadowmyst Labradors Visit Their Website Oskaloosa, IA This breeder prioritizes combining both show quality Labs and working dog lines, resulting in puppies who can fill a variety of roles. They are also dedicated to the health of their dogs, with numerous health screenings including genetic testing performed on their Labs before breeding. Only the three original, AKC recognized colors of black, chocolate, and yellow labs are available from this breeder. This breeder makes a point to have their puppies start early training before they go to their new homes with the goal of a smooth transition for the dog and owner. They focus on show quality Labradors, with several champions among their breeding stock. Because they are a small operation, this breeder maintains a waiting list for new litters. The improvement of the Labrador breed as a whole appears to be the main focus of this breeding operation. The family who runs the breeding kennel also created a foundation to support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. The dogs they breed come from both show and hunting lines but are specially bred to have good, even temperaments. They are more interested in producing high-quality puppies than a large number of dogs. This breeder will ship dogs by air for an additional fee, but only with a courier inside the cabin, never in cargo. Their dogs come from hunting and retrieving bloodlines and are sold as both pets and hunting dogs. The owners of this kennel are veterinarians and the puppies come with a health guarantee. Both the male and female come from a long line of hunting and pointing Labradors. The parents both have certified hips and the kennel offers a health guarantee. This kennel will ship puppies by air or deliver them depending on location. Silver Labradors are not allowed to compete in shows because the color is not accepted by the AKC. However, silver Labs are popular as pets and hunting dogs. The male and females at this breeding kennel are health certified and genetically tested. The puppies are raised with a lot of socialization before they go to their new homes. The parent dogs are health certified and genetically tested before breeding. All litters are hand-raised by the breeders and their children on the farm. These dogs are primarily bred and sold as pets but do have some hunting dogs in their lineage. Their dogs are bred to be talented hunters and loving family pets as well. They also offer adult, fully trained hunting Labradors for sale. In addition, the kennel offers hunting training courses for privately-owned dogs. They are a large operation dedicated to producing excellent hunters who are even better family pets. Their puppies are socialized and mentally stimulated regularly during the weeks before they go to their new homes. This kennel offers a strict health guarantee. Related read:.

Try to look for breeders that specialize in German Shepherds. When you bring home a plush coat German Shepherd, be ready to have a high-energy dog with you at all times. They can live for up to 15 years so take your time to research the dog breed that best fits your lifestyle since this is not a short-term commitment. Their nickname is the German Shedder. German Shepherds all shed and they shed frequently. The Plush Coat German Shepherd will shed longer hair. A recessive gene causes the Plush Coat length, so finding this breed is a little difficult. Die-hard German Shepherd breeders tend to dislike this coat, so if puppies are produced with Plush Coats, it means each parent is carrying the recessive gene. Image Credit: Jumpstory 4. Medium-haired German Shepherds still have the intelligence, courage, and work ethic to be military and police dogs. They can also be personal service dogs. Their ears stand up on their own. Their bite is super strong. While the dog might be 90 pounds, they can deliver a bite with a force of over pounds. Image Credit: Jumpstory 7. The name was changed. The name was changed back in .The Plush Coat German Shepherd is an extremely smart dog. Their ability to be trained so easily combined with their loving natures make them popular choices for family pets. With the same personality and traits, this dog has a strong work ethic and is a wonderful companion. Regular brushing can help with the shedding, but this dog is going to shed frequently no matter what. As family dogs, Plush Coat German Shepherds are great with kids and make loyal and loving pets. That is because a dog with a medium coat would still be disqualified from the show ring if his color is considered a fault. German Shepherd color , therefore, interferes with the price , so a short-haired type might command a higher price for being a rarer, more valuable color. Because medium coats have the best of both worlds in terms of fur length and undercoat, they also shed the most of both kinds. Medium vs. In nature, medium coat German Shepherds have the same social temperament as other varieties, but they get treated more positively because they are cuter to the masses. This reinforces friendliness and keeps them from seeing every human as a threat. Of course, social experience is a prerequisite for this, and poorly socialized or untrained medium coat dogs do not develop this trait. Medium Coats Are Admired by the Show Crowd The dog show crowd is quite different in that it admires dogs not for their mass appeal but for specific traits. Often dogs loved by the public for their beautiful colors are dismissed by the show circuit because of an arbitrary breed standard. The plushness of the medium-haired German Shepherd is one of the rare traits admired by the public at large and the dog show niche. A trait admired by these circles gets intentionally bred into the working line in a matter of years. They so fiercely admire the plushness of medium-haired German Shepherds that they have not just come up with a name for it but have made that name stick. The reason is the looseness factor. If you have read my post about long-haired German Shepherds , you would know that most of them cannot participate in conformation events. They have a wolf-like appearance but with a hint of cuddliness. Upon looking at a medium-coated GSD, you cannot help but pet it. In contrast, female plush-coated dogs stand 22 to 24 inches tall and weigh 49 to 71 lbs. Temperament of the Medium-Haired German Shepherd The temperament of the medium-haired German Shepherd is the same as other varieties, no matter their coat type, color, or pattern. They are affectionate and caring towards their owners and form an intense bond that you can never break. They are also friendly with the surrounding community because they grow up being admired by people. Their fluffiness ensures that they have positive social experiences with people, making them open to human interaction. A medium coat German Shepherd sees you as his parent and friend, which is why he extends his loyalty to your family. Their social nature, alongside their curiosity, makes them great dogs, and their protective instincts and loyalty make them even better family members. However, their fur is replaced almost as soon as it is lost. Generally, a long coat will shed less than a plush coat dog purely because of coat volume and having an open coat. The short hair German Shepherd has two coats, but because of the shorter guard coat, the overall trapped loose fur is less than with a plush coat. You should brush them around twice a week and more in the heavy shedding season. Stainless steel deShedding edge reaches through topcoat to safely and easily remove loose hair and undercoat FURejector button releases hair with ease Ergonomic handle for comfort and easy use Remove loose hair without damaging the coat or cutting the skin when used as directed Deshedding tool for large lbs dogs with long h Buy on Amazon Health and Lifespan Health is essential, and your medium coat friend is likely to stay healthy as long as you take care of his fitness, give him the proper diet , and visit the vet at least once a year. That said, you must know the potential health complications your dog might have. The following health issues have nothing to do with the coat itself, but here are the problems many German Shepherds face. Elbow dysplasia — Ask for confirmation of parental joint health as normal grade or above. Degenerative myelopathy — Ask the breeder to show a SOD-1 gene-mutation test indicating both parents have normal genes. Bloat GDV — To prevent this, avoid big meals and give small, more frequent meals. Provided you take care of the above, your German Shepherd can live up to 13 years. However, once the dog is beyond seven years, his metabolism will slow down, and his appetite will not adjust to match it. Making sure your dog stays active is the best way to make sure he lives a happy and healthy life. FAQs Plush Coat vs. Stock Coat German Shepherd A short stock coat German Shepherd has a topcoat with hair no longer than one inch in length, whereas a plush coat has hair between 1 to 2 inches. The hair on the plush coat stands taller from the root but hangs a little towards the end, giving the coat a worthy look worth caressing. A stock coat German Shepherd has fur that stands more erect, albeit shorter. The surface area of this fur is still significant. Among the things that plush and stock coats have in common is a chance at dog shows. Most plush coats are admired by the show crowd, while stock coats can come from both the working line and the show line, with only the latter preferred by the dog pageant circuit. Plush Coat German Shepherd vs. Long Coat A plush coat German Shepherd has topcoat hair between 1 to 2 inches, a length crossed by long coats that have over 2 inches of fur. However, plush coats have an undercoat, which is often missing from long coats. The greatest consequence of this is that the extreme admiration received by plush coats is contrasted by the complete dismissal of long coats in the show circuit. This difference in treatment is also reflected in the prices of the two dogs, with long coat GSDs being among the lowest priced dogs and plush coats commanding one of the highest dollar values for a German Shepherd. German Shepherds have a double coat that consists of a thick, soft undercoat and a coarser outer coat. The outer coat can vary in texture from dog to dog, but it is generally considered to be coarse. Final Thoughts German Shepherd is a term that encompasses dogs of various looks, which is why knowing as much as you can about their different coat types will help you articulate the kind of dog you actually want. Moreover, you should know if you are okay with the drawbacks of a long coat German Shepherd, mainly their irrelevance in the show ring. The best compromise is a medium-haired German Shepherd who can be workers and show dogs alike. Related Posts You May Like:.

In that case, it's vital to have anxiety management tools in your arsenal. When you think of a German Shepherd, what comes to mind? A perched, strong black and white dog with a long snout and muscular shoulders. Or maybe a dog that is standing solid and upright, exuding confidence and bravery. This man's best friend is the epitome of loyalty and protection. Often the German Shepherd is viewed as indestructible, but there is a chink in their armor. Unfortunately, this breed notoriously suffers from anxious behavior. Unwanted behaviors leave many homes wrecked and owners stressed. Luckily, German Shepherd anxiety can be easily managed by understanding the breed, fear, and investing in calming avenues. More than likely, you or someone you know owns and loves a German Shepherd. They are one of the best breeds to choose for your family. German shepherds are known to love as fiercely as they live. This breed lives its life to protect and serve its owner. Often owners of German Shepherds feel safer in their homes and live more active lives. As a responsible pet owner and friend to your pup, it's essential to take care of their mental health. To fully care for your German Shepherd, it's necessary to understand and study this breed's physical, mental, and emotional needs. Physical features of a German Shepherd include a large stature, supreme agility, and muscular definition. This breed has a double coat which is likely to shed twice a year. It's crucial to maintain their coat frequently for you and their sanity. If you do not expect to experience a lot of shedding, this breed isn't for you. Because this breed has such a dominating physical makeup, it's playful and energetic. Physical activity and social interaction are a must for this breed. Personality traits of this breed include loyalty, courage, and confidence. German Shepherds are the epitome of bravery in a canine friend. German Shepherds make wonderful pets because they are affectionate and protective. That means that you can bring this playful pup home to your children with little to no worry. Their strong aptitude for protecting their owners makes German Shepherds the perfect watchdog. Socialization is critical to the growth of your German Shepherd. It is essential to bond with your pup early on to ward of feelings of German Shepherd anxiety. According to the Merk Veterinary Manual , "a lack of adequate socialization and enrichment during the sensitive period can contribute to excessive responses to stimuli, including fear and aggression. Without this foundation, your pup will be more prone to anxious tendencies. All is not lost! Even if your puppy had little early socialization, you could put an end to German Shepherd anxiety with proper training and care! Like most dogs, German Shepherds have been bred to bond with humans and be lifelong companions. A significant difference between German Shepherds and other dogs is that humans bred the German Shepherd to work. Generating an animal-based on a specific set of traits is known as purpose-driven breeding. German Shepherds have been given jobs to apply their fantastic talent and, therefore, need this structured into their daily lives. Because it is not likely that your German Shepherd is wrangling sheep or working on a farm, it's imperative to exhaust these mental and physical expectations through similar stimuli. Without proper stimulation, German Shepherd anxiety might cause some unwanted behaviors in your home. What is German Shepherd anxiety? German Shepherd anxiety is often much like human anxiety. Anxiety is a state of fear-induced stress and can cause problem behaviors. These behaviors range from very minimal to extreme. Slight cases of disruptive behavior can lead to severe behavior, which will affect your daily life. It's important to understand anxiety to avoid stress in your pup. What is German Shepherd Anxiety? Just like humans, German shepherds can and do suffer from mental health disorders. Healthline describes anxiety as a natural response to stress. It is the psychological relationship to the fear of the threat of well-being. Anxiety in humans represents itself through panic attacks, phobias, social or separation anxieties, and trauma-related anxieties. There are trained professionals that monitor and diagnose these behavioral abnormalities when they start to affect daily functioning. With modification and treatment, humans can manage their anxieties, and the same goes for your German Shepherd's anxiety. However, it's your responsibility as the pet owner to manage pet anxiety. Is your German Shepherd showing anxiety? ASPCA explains that German Shepherd anxiety can cause urinating or defecating, barking, chewing or destroying things, digging, trying to escape, pacing, or preventing you from leaving. If your German Shepherd has been house-trained well, these unwanted behaviors can be coping mechanisms to fear and anxiety. However, we'd love to have our pets treated for mental health issues, finding a psychologist trained in German Shepherd anxiety. After talking to your veterinarian to discuss the unwanted behavior, it's your turn to assess and maintain your pup's mental health. Unfortunately, many times urinating and defecating inside the home is triggered by a severe ailment. Make sure to take your German Shepherd to its veterinarian to rule out a medical emergency. Is My German Shepherd Anxious? German Shepherd anxiety is a warning signal that your German Shepherd is in distress. It's crucial to understand and examine your dog's lifestyle and behavior to manage German Shepherd anxiety. Also, it's important not to get angry or upset with your pet. Dogs have emotions, like humans, and this is an emotional stress response. Getting angry or upset with your pet often leads to more destructive behavior. Punishment breeds fear, and anxious behavior will become severe. There are other ways to manage German Shepherd anxiety. Has your German Shepherd changed homes, guardians, schedules, or have you added members to your household? This breed is known for adapting to change very well but can still show distress when abandoned or disrupting their schedule or routine. Are you getting your German Shepherd enough stimulation? By breeding German Shepherds to be working companions, these dogs are typically much happier accommodating their owners. If you are not training German Shepherds or giving them the social interactions they need, this will often result in boredom. Boredom can result in German Shepherd anxiety! It is paramount that a German Shepherd lives an active lifestyle with a serving heart. Does Loneliness drive German Shepherd anxiety? Separation anxiety is one of the most common anxieties witnessed in dogs. A dog, having been bred for companionship, is not equipped to stay home for hours alone. It's crucial to understand separation anxiety and what this may look like in your German Shepherd. Separation Anxiety and Your German Shepherd ASPCA lists separation anxiety in dogs as being "triggered when dogs become upset because of separation from their guardians, the people they're attached to. Your German Shepherd can showcase separation anxiety by trying to escape, urinating, chewing or destroying objects in the home, and unwanted digging. Does your German Shepherd act sad when you are preparing to leave the house without them? Does your dog try to prevent you from leaving your house? Is your German Shepherd's disruptive behavior often acted out when you are not home? These are possible signs that German Shepherd anxiety is resulting in negative behavior. How to Manage Separation Anxiety in your German Shepherd The best way to manage separation anxiety in your German Shepherd is to teach them to be happy at home without you. Making a happy home for your pet sounds easy enough. Make your household comfortable and calming. Calming Store offers the perfect products that aid your pup in loving their atmosphere. Made to curb anxious behavior, the calming bed provides a comfortable, calming, luxurious space for your German Shepherd. Face it; we can't stay home with our pups every day and work hard to give them the best life possible. Help your German Shepherd feel at ease in their home by investing in their comfort. An excellent way to condition your pet to love their home with or without you is through food rewards. This type of conditioning allows your dog to associate positive feelings with a set task. The task at hand is your German Shepherd feeling comfortable with you leaving and ending German Shepherd anxiety. Therefore, when you go, you will give your dog food. These calming zen chews are perfectly curated to manage German Shepherd anxiety. When leaving the house, provide your German Shepherd a calming zen chew, and he will attach positive feelings to being home alone. The pleasant food will reinforce the feelings of comfortable and calm when you are away. No more destructive, unwanted behaviors from your pup. This breed's high level of intelligence made it easily trainable, which is perfect for intense militant training. German Shepherd's muscular physique also makes it the ideal work dog. The life of a working dog is strenuous. These physical demands of German Shepherds can lead to anxious behaviors. This recent study links anxiety traits in German Shepherds to work-related physical trauma. The study suggests, "Findings supported our research hypothesis in that the number of behavioral concerns reported was significantly associated and correlated with the number of vertebral locations with lumbosacral stenosis. The benefits of having dogs trained in detecting bombs or subduing criminals must outweigh these startling statistics. We must protect and comfort these heroes at all costs! The calming bed will aid worker dogs in comfort and relaxation. Calm German Shepherd anxiety with a bed that is cozy and large enough to accommodate their muscular build. The calming bed comes in an XL size of 48 inches which is perfect for your sore pup. These heroes deserve the best, and you must take care of their aches by offering them the most high-quality bed possible. But what other common triggers cause anxiety? Loud noises from thunderstorms or celebrations can cause significant anxious behavior in German Shepherds. Did you know that Independence Day was the number one day that dogs are known to run away? Dogs try to escape because the loud noise of fireworks triggers many dogs. Needing to escape their environment is a result of anxious behavior. It makes sense that this breed is often in distress from loud noises. Having been trained as work dogs, German Shepherds are on high alert and sensitive to noisy stimuli. Many owners attribute loud noises to disruptive behavior in their German Shepherds. Be on the lookout for this product to drop soon. Only organic material goes into making the calming bed. It comes with an insert of an expert blend of Valerian oil, Vetiver, Sweet Basil, and Clary Sage calming essential oils. These essential oils are safe for your pet. These essential oils are homeopathic ways to relieve German Shepherd anxiety. According to this study , genetic behavior is vital in understanding the risk management of behavioral fears in your German Shepherd. You keep him working through training exercises but not in a militant style. Your house could still fall victim to the wrath of an anxious pup. All the training in the world will not change the genetic makeup of your German Shepherd. Remember, breeding patterns link German Shepherds to diligent and protective behavior. It's in their nature to be on alert and makes them the best at what they do. The best way to protect your pet and belongings from anxious behavior is to maintain a calm and comfortable home environment. Sometimes there are no answers. There is no rhyme or reason why a German Shepherd is feeling anxious. Still, as a pet owner and family to your pup, it's crucial to invest in their mental health. Calming Dog offers calming spray that can relax and comfort your German Shepherd in the security of its own home. German Shepherds need a comfortable, calm environment with owners that they can trust. Let's not forget that there are breed state laws that specifically target behavior in certain breeds. German Shepherds fall under these legislations because they can create a great deal of harm to others and their property. As a pet owner, it is your responsibility to ensure that your pet doesn't escape and harm others or themselves. These laws often have monetary punishment, as in you would pay a fine. Still, too many instances of breaking the law can lead to relinquishing your pet to state facilities. The Calming Dog offers an alternative route to manage German Shepherd anxiety. With products ranging from comfortable beds to products great for conditioning Zen Chews , these products will create a serene and comfortable environment that your German Shepherd will learn to love. Take the burden of anxiety away by investing in your family pet's mental health today. These animals didn't choose to become our protectors, but they live up to the challenge. We must value the life they give to us and become responsible pet owners. We have to manage their physical, mental, and emotional health. Not only will your German Shepherd be anxiety-free, but your home will be clean and safe. You will not have to worry about breaking laws or your pup harming himself or others. Congratulations on taking the time to learn to manage German Shepherd anxiety. The first step to a more peaceful environment is to process how to manage stress. You are on your way to living a better life with your German Shepherd! How to help my German Shepherd with Separation Anxiety? November 3, November 3, Anyone who has a German Shepherd knows that they are exceptionally intelligent, loyal and confident. Separation anxiety is common in dogs and especially German Shepherds. We all know that German Shepherds are extremely affectionate and loyal to their family. They love spending time with their owners and protect them from threats. There are certain traits only linked to German Shepherds such as a want to chase things, they can be very aloof toward strangers, be territorial, and have an exceptional ability to focus. This intelligent and playful breed can quickly get bored and anxious when they are separated from their owners for long periods. Shepherds have shown signs of aggression and bad behavior due to being alone and feeling anxious and stressed. Dealing with separation anxiety with Shepherds can be different than other breeds because of their size and intelligence. With a small dog you can pick them up, cuddle, walk around with them in your arms, this is not an option with a shepherd. Other dogs can be content with classical music in the background to calm them while a shepherd need more mental stimulation to bring comfort. You know your dog best so changes in behavior or body language should be addressed. Lip licking Whites of the eyes are visible Shaking Looking away and avoidance behavior This issue can be worse for rescue German Shepherds because of the potential for pre-existing abandonment issues. If you recently brought your new dog home from the shelter, you might find that separation anxiety is a big problem. They have previous experience with being abandoned or left at a shelter. It is also important to remember that your German Shepherd can develop separation anxiety issues later in life even if they were previously fine. German Shepherds are sensitive to changes in their lives. For example, some dog owners will notice increased anxiety in their dogs after moving to another house. Your pet merely needs time to get used to their new surroundings and will find comfort in your presence. A change in routine, such as a new job, could also have an impact. Sometimes just getting older can mean a newly developed case of separation anxiety. The behavioral symptoms of separation anxiety in German Shepherds: The symptoms that you will be most aware of as a dog owner are the more destructive behaviors and their impact on your home. If your dog has the freedom to roam around the house and take out their frustrations, damage may occur. Dogs can become more inclined to chew to comfort themselves, often legs of chairs, corners of couches…even walls! How should you react when your dog pees or poops in the house while you are away? You might find unfortunate accidents on the floor when you get home, as though your dog forgot all about their house-breaking training. When this happens, your dog should never be yelled at or punished. Your dog connects the accident to your behavior. So, if you normally would yell at your dog when there is an accident, then your dog would relate the actual accident to yelling, not that they were the cause of this accident. This could mean that they start whining a lot more as they pace the home looking for you. Or they might start barking. If the latter is the case, you might find your neighbors knocking on your door complaining about the noise. That is because they might not manifest themselves until you leave home. Some German Shepherd will start to drool excessively, while others may pant and shake. There can be a big difference in the symptoms exhibited, with some dogs becoming quite active in their anxiety and others more lethargic and depressed. Click here to learn more about the signs of separation anxiety in dogs What can you do to prevent separation anxiety in German Shepherds? The impact of these tools will always depend on the personality of your dog, the severity of the condition, and your efforts in using them consistently. Therefore, some dog owners will see results with greater speed and ease than others. Renowned as the Queen of Calm, it relieves anxiety, helps with sleep and lifts moods. Lavender can help de-stress and calm your anxious dog safely. It can not only quiet a nervous and agitated pooch, but also help them sleep better, and can even cheer up a depressed pet. One of the gentlest oils around, lavender is well-known as a natural sedative, calming and soothing the nerves, easing anxiety and depression, and promoting deeper and more restful sleep. Lavender's calming sedative-like effects were confirmed in a study Pubmed article Link with dogs who had a history of car ride anxiety. The study found that dogs spent significantly more time resting and sitting and less time moving and vocalizing when exposed to the scent. Another study Shelter Dog Study link on diffusing lavender in a dog shelter showed similar results. Your Scent. Neuroscientist Gregory Berns and his team at Emory University's Center for Neuropolicy used advanced brain-imaging to demonstrate that dogs recognize scents even when the source isn't present. One of the most interesting findings of his study published in the journal Behavioral Processes is how canine brains responded differently to the odor of unfamiliar dogs and humans compared to their own family. You are your dog's favorite smell. While we might expect that dogs should be highly tuned to the smell of other dogs, it seems that the 'reward response' is reserved for their humans. Whether this is based on food, play, innate genetic predisposition or something else remains an area for future investigation. They don't call man "dog's best friend" for nothing. Click here to learn more about the powerful effects that your smell has on your dog SPACE: Give them space where they can be happy and entertained while you are gone. If you want to stop your anxious German Shepherd from exploring the home in search of you or destroying things out of boredom or worry, make sure that they are secure and entertained. Train your pup to be safe in a crate or a pen. Give them a safe designated area that is all theirs where they can sleep and play. A crate can become a cozy little den with their blankets and toys. A nap here in the afternoon can be soothing. The destructive side of separation anxiety can subside if your dog is tired and would much rather have a good sleep. You can enjoy some quality time together and get plenty of exercise on a long walk. Then, when they are settled back at home and content, you can leave without a fuss. How do we get your actual scent into our products? When you order, we send you a scent collection kit in the mail. When you mail back your collected scent in the prepaid envelope provide, our labs extract your scent molecules in a highly concentrated format, which is then blended to create the ultimate calming spray for your dog. It is all natural, drug and chemical free. German Shepherds stand 24 to 26 inches and weigh between 66 and 88 lbs. A German Shepherd puppy is loyal, confident, and courageous. They are considered good all-purpose working dogs. They are proud defenders of their families and willing to put their lives on the line as they grow. However, they are still gentle family pets. They are very receptive to training. German Shepherds have been in the top 3 dog breeds in the US for many years. The breed is no stranger to public service. They helped look for survivors on September 11, .They help search out explosives today. They are intelligent and athletic. They are some of the smartest dogs and herding dogs and are known to have great personalities. They can run 30 mph and jump as high as 6 feet. Training is necessary for them so that they don't misuse their strength. German Shepherd puppies can experience anxiety. Anxiety is seen most in German Shepherd puppies that have been adopted that were the victim of cruel acts, abuse, or neglect. However, this can happen with a German Shepherd puppy of any background. It is often seen in shelter animals which are thought to be because they were separated from a person they cared about. Other more common things can cause it, too, like changing schedules or someone leaving the household, such as a student going off to college. Sometimes these things are unavoidable, but there are things you can do to help. You wouldn't want your German Shepherd puppy to experience anxiety, but thankfully there are signs you can look out for. Fear is a response in German Shepherd puppies from a real threat. Anxiety is the response to an anticipated threat that might not materialize. Things like avoidance, shaking, and trembling can be a response to both fear and anxiety. A phobia is an exaggerated fear response that results in panic. German Shepherd puppies can be prone to anxiety. You wouldn't want your German Shepherd puppy to experience fear or anxiety. One common type is separation anxiety. Separation Anxiety in German Shepherd Puppies Separation anxiety in German Shepherd puppies occurs when the dog owner leaves the house. They can become distressed and exhibit behavior problems. This problem should be dealt with early , so the dog doesn't harm itself or anyone else. Your German Shepherd puppy is more prone to separation anxiety than other breeds because they are loyal and form an intense bond with their owners. They are highly social, and we bred them to be with us and interact with us, so when they are left alone, this can cause profound distress. If your German Shepherd puppy appears to have separation anxiety, you may wonder what the causes were. Thankfully, you can watch for signs to determine if your German Shepherd is suffering from anxiety. We'll go over that in the next section. Here are a few: Inconsistency You have to try your best to stay consistent with your German Shepherd puppy. They will expect to know when it's time to wake up, go to sleep, eat, and go for a walk in their day. Changing things around frequently can be very anxiety-inducing for them. You want to avoid this and stay consistent. You wouldn't want to cause anxiety in your German Shepherd puppy. Confusing Commands A German Shepherd puppy doesn't have the same grasp of the English language that we do. If you say something like "down," meaning lie down and get off the couch respectively, this could confuse your German Shepherd puppy. You need to keep commands clear and the same throughout training. This will help avoid anxiety in your German Shepherd puppies. You wouldn't want to stress them out. Staring Directly at Your Puppy Dogs can get nervous with direct eye contact, and it can cause anxiety. Consider looking at your German Shepherd puppy from a side glance instead of dead-on, as this will be more relaxing for them. Of course, your dog is beautiful, and you want to look at it, but avoid staring. This will help decrease stress in your German Shepherd puppy. Unnecessary Punishment Sometimes your dog does something wrong, but sometimes they are just a dog. If you leave food on the counter and your dog eats it, do not punish them, as this is typical dog behavior. Avoid the situation instead, and don't leave food out. It stinks you lost your meal but never punish a dog for being a dog. You wouldn't want to cause anxiety. They will begin to associate these phrases with fear. Instead, give them treats to distract them and provide positive reinforcement. You wouldn't want your dog to get more afraid because you are consoling it. This could cause anxiety in your German Shepherd puppy. This is more likely if you just adopted them. Show them around and make sure they are comfortable in their new home as they get familiar with it. This should ease with time spent in the new place. This will avoid anxiety for your dog. Someone Left the Home German Shepherd puppies don't understand that kids grow up and go to college. They think a particular person in the family is missing. This can cause anxiety in German Shepherd puppies. Please do your best to give them lots of affection and toys to stay busy. This will help reduce their anxiety. Give them attention and do training exercises with them to distract them. This can help with anxiety in your German Shepherd puppy. It's sad for the whole family when a member passes away, and that includes other dogs. Instead, stay calm and train your puppy to remain calm as well. Don't yell and scream around your German Shepherd puppy. Try to stay composed at all times. This may be easier said than done if that is an aspect of your personality but try your best. You wouldn't want to stress out your German Shepherd puppy. Fear Your dog could be anxious because it is fearful. This could be because of sirens or fireworks, or even another dog. Do your best to watch for body language and figure out what your German Shepherd puppies find so upsetting. You can help calm them by avoiding the situation in the future if you can. Someone Has Been Mistreating It This is primarily occurring if you recently adopted your German Shepherd puppy and took it out of a bad situation. However, if it is currently going on, then the dog may become fearful of that person. Watch for foul body language. It would be terrible if someone was hurting your dog and you didn't know. Lack of Exercise Your German Shepherd puppies should be getting an hour of exercise every day. If it isn't, that could contribute to its anxiety. Consider taking your German Shepherd puppy for a daily walk to prevent this. You also wouldn't want your German Shepherd puppy to become overweight. There is a chance it will improve over time. However, now is an excellent time to start with positive reinforcement and rewarding it for good behavior so it continues. The Owner Dies If the German Shepherd puppies owner passes away, that would be devastating to the dog but will probably ease with time. This would be more common with adopted dogs and could cause anxiety. Be sure to distract the dog with lots of attention and food puzzle treats if you can. Any manner of situation can cause this to be very stressful for your dog. You might consider leaving it with family when you leave the house or doggy daycare. Here are a few. Growling When a dog is growling, it is warning you. This might happen when someone is too close to it while it is eating. It would be best if you didn't punish growling, as it may lead to going directly to biting in the future. This is a sign of anxiety in your German Shepherd puppy. Whining or Barking Whining or barking isn't something some dogs can control all that well, but it can be a sign of anxiety, and you should be watchful for it paired with other symptoms of anxiety. Sometimes barking is anxiety, and sometimes it isn't. Body Language There are many signs in body language that show anxiety, such as whale eye showing the white of the eyes and tucked ears or tail in German Shepherd puppies. You'll want to watch for signs of distress. Your German Shepherd puppy is letting you know that something is bothering it. Freezing Freezing occurs when a dog is shutting down from anxiety. It would be best if you were very careful, and this can come right before a bite. You certainly wouldn't want your German Shepherd puppy to bite someone. It's best to watch for this body language. Pacing Moving back and forth when getting fed may not be a big deal, but pacing can be a sign of anxiety. You'll have to determine if it is a habit or a visual queue of something more. Pay attention when your dog is moving back and forth. Chewing Chewing up your favorite shoes isn't just for fun; it could be a sign of anxiety. This is a good time for situational avoidance and keeps your shoes away from your German Shepherd puppy. German Shepherd puppies love to chew, so make sure they have plenty of toys. Howling Howling can be a sign of anxiety. Be sure to watch for this as your German Shepherd puppies are telling you they are stressed. Your neighbors might also be annoyed. Digging Digging can be annoying and expensive if it is done inside and they rip up the floor. This behavior can be seen as anxiety. You'll want to pay attention if your dog is digging inside especially. Being Destructive Ripping up the couch and chewing up the rug can be seen as anxiety. You might have to crate your dog or block them off with a baby gate to avoid this. Situational avoidance is essential when dealing with anxiety and your German Shepherd puppies. Eating Their Excrement Eating their excrement isn't normal and can be a sign of an anxious dog. If your German Shepherd puppy does this, take notice. What We Know About Managing Anxiety in Humans Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and good nutrition are some of the best ways to equip your body better to combat stress, but several vitamins and supplements can also help. Things like good nutrition, getting enough sleep, and regular exercise help with stress and anxiety. Several herbal supplements can also help. This includes L-theanine. L-theanine is an amino acid found in tea leaves. It's also found in Calming Zen Chews. These can help your dog relax if they need help with anxiety treatment. Stress is how the human body responds to a demand, and sometimes a little stress can help perform at school or work. Stress can also be seen as nature's way of helping you fight for survival. However, too much stress can lead to health problems, both in people and German Shepherd puppies. What other things can you do to help your German Shepherd puppies with anxiety? These trainings are based around desensitizing your German Shepherd puppy to stimuli and also refocusing when a dog is presented with the stimuli. You may want to contact a trainer regarding this and make sure they can help you with this before paying for services. Learning Body Language You want to do your best to study the body language of your German Shepherd puppy. There are many signs of stress that are shown such as whale eye showing the white of the eye , and tucking the tail. Body language will let you know when your dog is experiencing anxiety. Socialization Introducing your German Shepherd puppy to know places, people, and things will make them be a more well-rounded dog. This can avoid exaggerated reactions to stimuli in the future. Obedience Training It is much easier to socialize a well-trained dog. German Shepherd puppies are very receptive to training and you won't regret working with your puppy now to curb any issues in the future. Exercise Exercise is important for the physical health of your German Shepherd puppy. They should be getting an hour of exercise daily. Not getting the right amount can cause stress and anxiety. Nutrition You should be feeding your German Shepherd puppies high-quality dog food for their best health. A healthy dog is less likely to have problems with anxiety. Check with your veterinarian to see what you should be feeding in your area. Situation Avoidance Sometimes the best thing you can do is avoid a situation where you know your German Shepherd puppy will become anxious. Perhaps skip working overtime or skip the dog park. You know what upsets your dog and you can do your best to avoid those situations without completely changing your life too much. Crate Training Crate training is a great way to give your dog a safe place. Be careful though as crates can make some German Shepherd puppies anxious. If your dog becomes anxious with crate training, block them off with a baby gate instead. Giving Your Dog Jobs Give your dog jobs to do. Take them on new hiking trails and give them food puzzle treats. Enrich their life so they are less likely to have anxiety. Conclusion German Shepherd puppies are great dogs. They are very loyal and loving and make great family pets. Unfortunately, they can be prone to anxiety. There are signs you can watch out for however and things you can do to help. German Shepherd puppies make awesome pets and there are things you can do to improve their stress levels. Bites Anxiety Prevention Although the causes of anxiety can be many, there are things you can do to help prevent a dog from developing an anxiety disorder. Help for Anxiety There is not a one size fits all solution for anxiety so talking to your vet or a canine behaviorist can be helpful. Some things that may help anxiety may include: Adding a second dog to the house may help calm and reassure a dog with separation anxiety to cope when their owner leaves the house. Creating a safe space or crating an anxious dog may help temporarily reduce the anxious and destructive behavior in some, but not in all dogs. A safe space is helpful for many reasons and all dogs should have a place of retreat. Diffusing dog appeasing pheromones using an eclectic diffuser has been found to reduce anxiety related behavior. This is not referring to essential oils. CBD oil can help maintain homeostasis and reduce anxiety in dogs. Always look for a THC free high quality, water soluble, hemp oil in capsules, treats, or oil. Find a company that batch tests and guarantees their oils for purity. Healthy food and supplements can also help calm anxiety by improving overall health. According to Veterinary Practice News, L-theanine an amino acid found naturally in green tea and mushroom, has been shown to help cats and dogs deal with separation anxiety and environmental stressors and colostrum calming milk supplement that can reduce anxious behavior can help. Get behavior advice from a professional to help. Remove the dog from what they fear then start systematic desensitization expose the dog small, mild versions of what they fear from a distance to help them overcome their fears and then gradually increase the exposure. The trick is to keep the initial exposures below their fear threshold so that their anxiety will not be triggered. Counter-conditioning is another way to desensitize a dog. In other words, try to change the way your pet perceives what they fear. Scared of the vet? Bring treats and their favorite toy to the next visit. A storm is brewing? Reassure and praise your dog for calm behavior. You will not reinforce their fear or create more fear by being calming and helping them to feel safe, as long as you are also calm and confident. Medication, your vet can prescribe medication to help calm extreme or temporary cases of anxiety. Some people have an aversion to medication but in some cases its helpful, can protect a dog from hurting themselves, or even prevent unnecessary euthanasia. Never punish a dog for anxious behavior. Punishments and harsh corrections can create more fear and aggression and create a cycle of anxiety. Fun distractions, such as treats and toys, to take their attention off the trigger and getting to the bottom of their troubles is far more helpful. Please share these helpful tips that will help put an end to dog anxiety. To stop separation anxiety in German Shepherds, socialize and train your dog from an early age and exercise him before leaving. Leave him where he feels relaxed and comfy, keeping departures low-key, and leave lots of toys and distractions. Practice short trips first and never use punishment. Puppies should be exposed to different stimuli as often as possible from an early age. Start by introducing your pup to your family and friends, taking him to many different places where he can encounter other dogs and experience various scenarios, such as traffic noise, lots of people, children playing, etc. Puppies need a routine and a training schedule. Check out my article, German Shepherd Puppy Training Schedule , for a month-by-month plan on what to teach and when. Just understand it may take a little longer. For both puppies and older dogs, obedience classes are always an excellent idea. Exercise helps to keep them healthy and prevents boredom. This study found that dogs with separation anxiety exercised less compared with dogs that did not have separation anxiety. The same study also found that unsocialized dogs were more at risk see above. Always exercise your German Shepherd before you leave him. He will be tired and will want to sleep while you are away. A tired dog is also a happy dog. When you return home, exercise him again. A healthy adult German Shepherd needs at least two periods of between 45 to minutes of daily exercise. Walking him on the lead every day without any variety will not be sufficient. Puppies have different exercise requirements as they are still growing, and too much or the wrong type of exercise can be harmful to pups. So, here are my 7 fun ways how to exercise a German Shepherd puppy. If your German Shepherd stays indoors and is crate trained, you should leave him in his crate as he will feel safe and secure. However, a point to note is that some dogs with already developed separation anxiety do not do well in a crate. Other options are to leave him in a designated room or use dog gates to segregate an area or use a playpen. Making a big fuss about departures and arrivals detracts from this purpose. The same applies when you return, so wait a few minutes before petting him and showing him affection. It makes a great chew toy, has a crazy fun bounce, and you can fill it with peanut butter or treats for your doggo to enjoy. Puzzle toys are mentally and physically stimulating, which helps to reduce stress and anxiety. This cool toy will keep your pup busy while he tries to find all the tasty treats. It encourages positive play and gets thousands of great reviews. Another tip is to leave the TV on or have some gentle music playing. So start by leaving him for a few minutes at a time as soon as you bring him home, which is usually around eight weeks old. Gradually build this up over the next few weeks, increasing his time alone little by little. A rough guideline is that puppies should be left no more than one hour per month of age up to a maximum of four hours. You can read more info on how long German Shepherds can be left alone in my guilt-free guide. When my German Shepherd was a young pup, even if I had nowhere to go, I would sneak upstairs to another room and stay silent for a few minutes so that she could get used to being alone in her crate. However, you should try to avoid this step if you notice that your German Shepherd is beginning to feel quite comfortable alone. It should only be attempted if your dog is experiencing separation anxiety or you need to be away for more than four hours. Otherwise, you could end up reversing your progress. German Shepherds are all about you and will stress very easily! One way to stop separation anxiety in German Shepherds is to show your doggo that you love him and he is important to you. You should allow him to have some time alone as you might inadvertently be making him too clingy. A GSDs strong bond can become a problem if you allow it! Ensure you show him affection at the right times, such as during training or when he deserves praise. There are also other ways to show affection rather than constantly petting, such as extra walks or playtime or offering special treats or toys as rewards. Never Discipline Your GSD If you come home to destroyed cushions, scratches on the door, or a chewed table leg, you cannot discipline or punish your pup. They are, in fact, part of a panic response. You should discipline dogs at the precise moment they perform the unwanted behavior. But why? This is because dogs have a 2-minute short-term memory and will not remember what happened a few minutes earlier, never mind an hour ago! But they will recall your training commands through associative memory. This means they can remember associations between commands, situations, and behavior. This is why positive reinforcement as a method of training works. Consider a Second Dog to be a Friend One solution to prevent separation anxiety in German Shepherds is to consider getting a second dog. However, this is a massive commitment, and you need to carefully think about how much extra time, work, and expense it will involve. If your family is truly set on a second dog, bear in mind that adult German Shepherds often have difficulty accepting new dogs. This problem stems from their intense bond with you. However, a young adolescent dog will likely receive a new friend with open paws! It can lower his recovery rate and add up to his trauma. This can increase the nervousness. Sometimes, there can only be one trigger point to address and this can get them rid of fear. Rework on your routine to spend some more time with your German Shepherd. Every dog takes his own pace to recover. It can reduce boredom, sensitize your absence, and also promote coping skills of your German Shepherd. German Shepherd Separation Anxiety Training If your German Shepherd suffers from severe separation anxiety or you have adopted a rescue with clear signs of this psychological problem, and the above recommendations are clearly not working, it may be time to start more advanced separation anxiety training. So, can you train separation anxiety out of a German Shephard? You can train separation anxiety out of a German Shepherd. German Shepherd separation anxiety training consists of behavior modification techniques such as counterconditioning and desensitization, which can be supplemented with medication in the initial phases if the anxiety is severe. Interestingly, I found some recent research suggesting that understanding the root cause of separation anxiety could be the key to effective treatment. The research conducted by a team of scientists at the University of Lincoln, UK, stated that separation-related behavior SRB should be seen as a symptom of inherent frustrations instead of a diagnosis. The idea is to condition your German Shepherd to look forward to your departure by learning to associate the sound of your keys and other departure cues with getting something pleasant, such as a treat or a toy. Desensitization Another training technique is desensitization. This is when you gradually teach your dog to cope with a situation by carefully exposing him to that situation in tiny steps. For example, you can start by practicing progressive departures of minutes when you leave your German Shepherd. For example, if he starts to panic after just 30 seconds of you leaving, then that is your starting point. You will start by walking through the door and leaving him for, say, 15 seconds. But, if you know that he starts to exhibit symptoms after 10 minutes, try leaving him for 5 minutes. Do you get me? Slowly but surely is the key. Doggy cams are excellent for this as you just operate them from your smartphone. This one has over 20, positive reviews, and you can even get it to toss out treats to your dog. But that is not for now! As behavior modification training is not a quick solution, you may need to consider additional treatment options, such as conventional or alternative medication, especially if your GSDs anxiety is severe. To treat separation anxiety in your German Shepherd, consider anti-anxiety medication from your vet whilst you continue behavior modification training. You can also use dog appeasing pheromone DAP , which has therapeutic calming effects. CBD oil is also becoming more popular, albeit not clinically proven. Medication is only a temporary fix and should always be used in conjunction with the training techniques described above. This is a synthetic copy of the natural comforting pheromone secreted by a dam to reassure her puppies. Dog-appeasing pheromone has therapeutic effects of calming and reducing some forms of anxiety in both young and adult dogs. Nonetheless, there has been little research to support the use of DAP for canine separation anxiety, and its long-term effectiveness is unknown. However, this study suggested that DAP improved separation anxiety in hospitalized dogs. Adaptil is the brand recommended, most trusted, and used by vets and expert animal behaviorists. I have never needed to try this for my German Shepherd. CBD oil is available in drops, capsules, and a range of treats. Some dog owners claim that their dogs benefit from using it as it helps to fight their separation anxiety by relaxing them and keeping them calm when alone. This study suggested that the main reasons owners choose cannabis products were to use them alongside other therapies, and they were perceived as a natural substance. Before you give any supplement to your German Shepherd, you should contact your veterinarian for advice. Here are the key takeaways of this guide: Early socialization and training can prevent separation-related behavior Get your pup accustomed to being alone from a young age Thoroughly exercise your German Shepherd before leaving him Never punish your dog for destructive behavior due to SRB In extreme cases, work on behavior modification training Remember, you need to be patient and consistent as behavior modification training techniques can take weeks or months, depending on the dog and the extent of the problem. Related Posts You May Like:. The separation anxiety can be triggered by the dog seeing signs that the owner is leaving. Depending on how severe the anxiety is, your German Shepherd will most likely present the following symptoms: Howling is arguably the most common sign of separation anxiety in German Shepherds. Giving treats and toys to chew on during alone time can go a long way in resolving the issue. Remember not to show them too much affection at these moments as it only makes matters worse. Frequent accidents and misbehavior despite being trained. Excessive licking. Attempting to escape from home, especially after your departure, is one of the most common signs that your dog is experiencing separation anxiety. Some German Shepherds exhibit separation anxiety by biting their paws often. Frequent change of position or pacing can also show signs of separation in a German Shepherd. The German Shepherd is famous for being one of the most loyal dog breeds. This, however, comes at a price since the dogs could get sensitive and emotional about being left behind. German shepherds are among the most affectionate dog breeds in the world. If not well managed, the anxiety problem can grow from barking to other kinds of unpleasant behavior such as aggression towards other dogs or destroying furniture. What causes separation anxiety in German Shepherds? It is not properly understood why dogs experience separation anxiety. There are, however, a few likely scenarios. First, wolves and dogs are natural pack animals. They grow fond of each other and their master much faster than other animals like cats. It is not, therefore, hard to imagine how difficult it is for your dog to feel alone, as they might be afraid of being hurt or lost. Another possible reason for this behavior is previous experiences with abandonment. Dogs adopted from shelters are particularly vulnerable to these experiences. According to The German Shepherder , the issue is also quite rampant in older dogs who have had to survive the passing or departure of their owners and had to be re-homed. While you might get a sense of affection by knowing that your dog is anxious for your return, it might be dangerous for your dog to be upset every time you leave. It is therefore best to tackle the problem head-on. This is only possible by making changes to the routine that your German Shepherd is used to. Make sure your dog gets enough exercise every day before you leave. According to GermanShepherdProblems , most German Shepherd dogs will not become anxious if they do not panic at the departure of their master. Try to give the dog something to do while you are away. A chew toy works best in German Shepherds. However, these remedies are only useful if the dog is not experiencing severe anxiety. Otherwise, if your dog is severely anxious, these activities might not be enough to capture their attention in order to get over your absence. Do this by going through your leaving routine daily without actually leaving, or just occasionally get up and leave without giving the dog any warning. By not giving much affection to the German Shepherd right before you go and mixing up your leaving routine, they might be less likely to panic when you leave. Also, try your best to ignore the dog when it starts to whine or whimper. It is really tough to ignore them when they start to sound displeased. However, showing more affection to your dog when it gets upset only makes things worse. You need to do your best to keep a distance between your dog and your act of leaving. In most cases, just re-planning your routine will work great at solving the issue of separation anxiety. Positive reinforcements Puppies are more like children, as they learn much faster when they are rewarded for a behavior. The idea only works in mild anxiety cases. If bad behavior has already taken hold, positive reinforcements might not be a favorable option. The goal of positive reinforcements is to reward calm behaviors and discourage anxious behaviors such as chewing and barking. Some professionals may refer to it as counter-conditioning since it teaches your dog to embrace its fears for a treat. If you are not calm around your dog, especially at the time of departure, you might be the cause of the problem. It is not advisable to pour love or make a big deal at the moment of your departure. Stay calm when preparing to depart. We are not, however, forbidding you from saying goodbye to your dog. Just try to not make a fuss out of it. Medication might help at times If you have tried all the ways listed above but none seem to be working, you might want to try some medication for your German Shepherd. It is always advisable to have a personal veterinary professional for your dog. Getting them checked immediately when symptoms arise could help a vet alleviate the issue early on. While medication should not be your first choice, it is sometimes essential that your German Shepherd receives medical attention for cases of severe anxiety. What to Avoid Doing to an Anxious German Shepherd Now that we know what to do to an anxious German Shepherd let us look at the things you should avoid doing around them. Do Not Yell at Your Dog! According to AboutGermanShepherddogs , yelling at your dog will only make the situation worse. Figure out which parts of the schedule to change and stick to it if it works. Do Not Ignore Training Some people simply let the dogs rest if they show signs of separation anxiety. It is essential that the dog gets regular training and new exercises to keep their mind off your departure. German Shepherd Separation Anxiety: Final Thoughts It is essential to recognize the signs of separation anxiety early on. This will not be difficult with most German Shepherd breeds as they will chew up just about anything when stressed enough! When you understand what exactly is keeping your pal anxious, you can take the steps discussed above to resolve it quickly. Jul 19, Blog German Shepherds are known as great human companions. This race was developed specially for hard work: guarding the flock, military, and police work. Many owners chose their German Shepherds because of their strength and intelligence. Instead of being the ultimate warriors, powerful and confident, many German Shepherds display soft and anxious behavior. Fear is normal From an evolutionary point of view, fear and anxiety are normal reactions. Those dogs which were fearful were also more vigilant, which helped them to survive longer. Putting it simply, overreacting is safer than being calm and relaxed. As a matter of fact, the same rule applies to humans. Most people very often experience fear, stress, and anxiety, despite rarely being in life-threatening situations. Its mental state results from a combination of traumatic experiences and genetic background. Dogs learn by associations. They link events with the sensory cues they experience. This means that very often, traumatic associations are purely accidental: a loud noise or sudden pain experienced when in contact with a specific object may be interpreted as that object being dangerous. The period when the dog is especially sensitive to fearful imprints is its adolescence. Your dog observes you all the time. It feels your emotions, reading from your body language, and your smell. If you react stressfully to a specific situation, it will take it as a sign that it should be stressed as well. On the other hand, if you remain calm, you may teach your dog to interpret the situation as non-threatening. You need to change the dogs association with the stimulus and change its reaction from fearful to calm and confident. The way to do it is exposing your dog to the situation he is afraid of — slowly and in small doses at a time — and rewarding it if it remains calm. If it is not apparent, pinpoint the situations causing your dog to be afraid and find out what is the common link. One of the worst possible strategies is forcing your dog to face his fears by bringing him to a fearful context and waiting for him to stop being afraid. In this situation, your dog becomes flooded with the fearful stimuli. The outcome is that his fear increases and the bond of trust between you and your dog can become severed. The dog needs to be slowly, gradually exposed to the fearful stimuli. It always has to happen in a controlled situation. For example, if your dog is afraid of strangers, bring it to a park where it can spot the strangers from far away while remaining in a safe zone. Reward your dog for being calm. If during a walk you encounter the fearful object by accident, distract your dog by taking its attention away. Reward your dog if it focuses on you, not the fearful stimuli. This is just a basic example of how gradual, controlled behavior conditioning can help your dog to become at ease with his fears. However, be prepared for the fact that teaching your dog to be calm and confident may take some hard work. Be patient and allow your dog to work at its own pace. Find a dog trainer near you who can instruct you on how to work with your dog. Below, I will mention a number of reasons why your German Shepherd could be getting anxious and the signs to look for with them. Separation anxiety A common reason why German Shepherds will get anxious is that they have some separation anxiety. This is where they get anxious because they do not want to be left alone. This would be more likely to be the reason why your German Shepherd gets anxious if it only seems to get anxious when you are about to leave and if you tend to leave it alone for a long time. In this case, it knows that you will be gone for a long time which is why it gets anxious. A new home Something that can cause a German Shepherd to become anxious is if it has recently moved homes. This would be more likely if you recently relocated or if you recently adopted your German Shepherd. In this case, it would help to show your German Shepherd around as much as possible. It is also likely that it will begin to become less anxious as it gets used to its surroundings. Someone left or another dog passed away Another thing that can cause a German Shepherd to become anxious is if someone moved away or if another pet passed away. This would be more likely to be the reason if your German Shepherd suddenly became more anxious at around the same time as either of those two things happening. In this case, your German Shepherd will likely begin to improve with time. However, it would likely help to spend more time with it yourself and to give it lots of exercise and toys to play with. Related post: How to tell if your German Shepherd loves you You are emotional around it German Shepherds will react to the way that their owner is behaving. If you have a tendency of becoming erratic, anxious or emotional around or with your German Shepherd then it is likely having an impact on its behavior. Instead, it would help to be calm around your German Shepherd and to train your German Shepherd to be calm as well. Fear The reason why your German Shepherd gets anxious could be because it is fearful. This would be more likely if it tends to get anxious at specific times where things happen that might cause it to get anxious or fearful. Common causes can include fireworks, sirens or thunder. However, it could also be the case that there is another person or dog that it is fearful of. If it is then it would be likely that it would become anxious when they are around. Related post: Why is my German Shepherd afraid? A change in its schedule German Shepherds are working dogs that like to have a regular routine. This is because it will be unsure of what is going on. Ways that its schedule might have changed could include a change in the time that you take it for a walk, when you feed it or when you tend to go to sleep and wake up. Someone has been mistreating it The cause could be that someone has been mistreating it. This would be more likely if your German Shepherd is adopted. If there is someone that is still mistreating it then it would be likely that it would get anxious when they are around. A lack of exercise German Shepherds are dogs that are meant to get a lot of exercise. Generally, it is recommended for a German Shepherd to get at least an hour of exercise per day. If a GSD does not get enough exercise then it can cause it to develop behavior problems including anxiousness. If your German Shepherd is not getting much exercise then making sure that it does would likely be very helpful in improving its behavior and reducing its anxiety. Related post: Ways to exercise your German Shepherd. It is still young It is common for German Shepherds to go through a more anxious phase when they are puppies. If your German Shepherd is still a puppy then it is likely that it will improve over time. However, now would be a good time to teach it not to be anxious or afraid of things. A good way to do so would be to use positive reinforcement training where you reward it when it shows signs of not being anxious or it does things where it is not anxious and it normally would be. Things to consider Before trying to get your German Shepherd to stop being anxious it would help a lot to know exactly what is causing it. There are a number of different things that you can consider but here are a couple of particularly useful things to think about. If it has become anxious suddenly If your German Shepherd has suddenly become anxious then it would be a lot more likely that there is something that recently happened that is causing it. It would help to consider things that happened at around the same time that it started to become more anxious.

Breeds The link has been copied! Few dogs are as intelligent and loyal as German Shepherds. With its athletic build and remarkable drive, this working breed makes excellent companions, herding dogs, police K-9s, and therapy animals. How much does a German Shepherd cost? The price of a German Shepherd puppy can vary a lot from one breeder to another. German Shepherds are active and need plenty of stimulation. Flea and tick preventatives are a must-have. You might face additional costs such as pet insurance, training classes, boarding fees, or dog walkers. Puppies tend to cost more due to the high demand. However, professional breeders charge a lot more. Professional breeders usually conduct health testing for the parents. Elbow and hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy are the two main tests to look for when adopting a GSD puppy. Prenatal care for the mother can be expensive. These costs can include bloodwork, ultrasounds, and X-rays. Most breeders raise the puppies for the first eight to 12 weeks. They provide nutrition, a living space, socialization, and sometimes early training. Puppies typically receive veterinary care, including a first round of booster shots and a deworming treatment. Colors German Shepherds can come in a few different colors. Black and tan and black and cream are the most common GSD colors. However, there are rarer colors, like black and silver, sable, or black. These colors meet the official breed standards, and a puppy with an unusual color can be worth more. Bloodline and Purity One of the key factors that influences the cost of a GSD puppy is the parents and their pedigrees. A breeder will look at how well the parents match the AKC breed standards. Both parents should be the right height and color. They should have a muscular morphology and the proper head shape. Breeders who are able to trace the ancestry of a litter over several generations and document that all the ancestors are purebred GSDs will charge more. You should also expect to pay more if a breeder can provide health testing information over several generations. Titles are another important factor. Show dogs can receive V, VA, or VA1 titles if they do well at an event and judges determine they meet all the standards of the breed. An IGP3 title indicates that a dog can protect its owner. Parents with IGP or IPO titles produce puppies that are worth more since breeders consider these animals to have excellent potential for training. A breeder who has an excellent reputation and many positive online reviews will attract more prospective dog owners and can afford to charge more. You can protect your dog with a microchip, but there are other steps you can take. The Fi GPS tracking dog collar helps you keep your dog safe. The design is highly resistant and waterproof for durability, and the collar comes with a battery that lasts three months. You can track your pet anywhere and locate them easily if they get lost. There are a few things you should know about this working breed. Personality of the German Shepherd German Shepherds are fiercely loyal. They make excellent guard dogs thanks to their protective instincts. They also make amazing pets who will give you lots of affection. GSDs are reliable and hardworking dogs who thrive if you constantly give them new tasks and challenges. These dogs are extremely versatile. German Shepherds have amazing potential and tend to do extremely well in training thanks to their drive and intelligence. However, they require consistent training and handling since they can be mouthy, chase prey, or become overprotective without the right training. Size and Weight German Shepherds are medium to large dogs. When it comes to weight, a healthy male will weigh 66 to 88 lbs. Lifestyle and Activity Levels German Shepherds are a working breed. Their origin dates back to the 19th century when dog breeder Max Von Stephanitz developed a new dog by breeding different herding dogs. Like all shepherds, GSDs have a strong need to stay active. Due to their athletic build, these dogs need at least two hours of exercise every day. Going for walks might not be sufficient. Your GSD will thrive if you provide plenty of opportunities to use their athletic abilities, including jumping, swimming, or running. Approximate Lifetime Care Costs The total cost of owning a German Shepherd is difficult to estimate since every animal is different. German Shepherds can be expensive. Here are a few tips to help you lower the cost. Look for a breeder who cares about the animals and who does health testing on the parents, but everything else is extra. You should also consider adopting a dog with an unknown lineage. Check local shelters or go online to look at classified ads. Check classified ads to find owners rehoming their pets. If you decide to get a German Shepherd, think about using the Fi GPS dog collar to keep your dog safe, and make sure you can bring your puppy home if she gets lost. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. The high cost of raising this breed is attributed to its pedigree, size, and availability. So, how much does it cost to raise a German Shepherd puppy? Although German Shepherds live between 9 to 13 years, the cost is pegged at one year since this is when puppies become dogs. This dog breed requires extra attention, training, and expenses. The cost of raising a German Shepherd puppy is determined, to a greater extent, by the initial price of the puppy. The higher the initial cost, the higher the cost of raising the puppy. Supplies Dog supplies are the next cost category for raising a German Shepherd puppy. Your puppy needs dog supplies for its daily needs for a comfortable living. While the leash is used for walks, the collar is for identification purposes. A dog bed: Your German Shepherd puppy needs a comfortable place to sleep and rest. You need a bed specifically designed for dogs. Food and water bowls: These are necessary to feed your puppy. Toys: These are important for mental stimulation and physical exercise. Your puppy needs mental stimulation for enhanced memory and problem-solving skills. Although German Shepherds are brilliant dogs, they are sometimes stubborn and can get on your nerves. For this reason, you must train them to be obedient and well-behaved dogs from a younger age. This amount covers the training materials, class fees, and certification. You can add more sessions as you progress and monitor how the puppy responds. Medical Expenses German Shepherd puppy One of your responsibilities as a German Shepherd puppy parent is ensuring that the canine is healthy. This includes regular check-ups, vaccinations, and treatments. Immunization: This is necessary for the prevention of diseases like rabies. Parasite control: It involves internal and external puppy parasite control. You should have your puppy spayed or neutered between six and nine months old. Food and Treats A healthy and balanced diet is crucial for the growth and development of your German Shepherd puppy. It also helps in preventing illnesses like obesity and food allergies. The cost of feeding a German Shepherd puppy varies depending on size, age, and activity level. You may spend nothing if you decide to groom the puppy yourself using readily available tools. The table below summarizes the cost of raising a German Shepherd puppy: Cost. Apart from recurring costs such as dog food, toys, and grooming essentials, a great chunk of your finances must go to routine veterinary care and pet insurance. Annual check-ups should be done on adult German Shepherds to check their physical condition and ensure they are healthy dogs. This involves listening to the heart and checking the ears and eyes. The typical lifespan of a GSD is 7 to 10 years. Other Potential Expenses Owning a dog is already comparable to parenthood. German Shepherds, much like any other dog breed, have other needs that go beyond food, water, and shelter. Your dog will be watched over, fed, and socialized with other dogs. Grooming Services: For your GSD to have a well-maintained coat and appearance, you should take them to a professional grooming salon. They will be cleaned, trimmed, and pampered as they deserve. Emergency Treatment: Dogs grow up so fast. As your German Shepherd puppy gets older, they are more prone to health issues like hip dysplasia. Sudden injuries can also happen that will require immediate medical attention and treatment. This will allow them to join various dog shows and other competitions. Places to Find German Shepherd Puppies for Sale and Adoption Once you plan everything out financially, you are ready to find places where you can buy your German Shepherd puppy. Cheap German Shepherd dogs can be bought from puppy mills or a backyard breeder. Buying from responsible breeders is the best option to get healthy puppies that will grow up to be strong adult dogs. To help on your quest, here is a list of breeders certified by the American Kennel Club that offer high-quality German Shepherd puppies: Vom Ragnar German Shepherds — This is a small kennel located in Illinois dedicated to breeding show-quality German Shepherds with sound temperament and the best condition because they have their puppies undergo health testing. This breeder strives to match their GSD pups to the most suited families. Mittelwest German Shepherds — As a well-renowned breeder, the owner ensures that they only produce show-quality German Shepherd puppies that can serve as show dogs, guard dogs, K-9, and much more. They also import and ship their dogs worldwide. West Coast German Shepherds — If you are located in California, this breeder can offer you a health-tested German Shepherd puppy coming from the best bloodlines. Buying the cheapest puppies online seems tempting, especially if you are on a budget, but you might spend more in the future due to medical expenses. To easily distinguish a responsible breeder from a puppy mill or backyard breeder, check out our puppy buying guide. Are you considering adopting a German Shepherd instead of buying from a breeder? If you are, this list can help you find the perfect GSD pup for you: German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions — Based in North Carolina, this non-profit organization was established to protect and promote the German Shepherd breed. German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County — This volunteer organization is all about placing unwanted, neglected, and abused German Shepherds into permanent, loving homes. Applicants are encouraged to meet up with their chosen dog prior to adoption. Matching their rescue dogs to a suitable owner is their top priority, along with the restoration of their health. For more chances of finding your lifelong companion, check out this list of the 10 best German Shepherd rescues. You can surely find one in your location! Adoption is the cheapest alternative to getting a German Shepherd Dog, and this is more suggested than buying from backyard breeders. Buy high-quality items. You will spend more on replacing them rather than having good products that can last for a longer time. Purchase supplies in bulk. When buying food or treats for your pup, make sure to stock up by buying them in bulk. This can save you a lot of money than buying small bags of kibble or cans of wet food. Keep your dog in excellent shape. To avoid expensive veterinary bills, keep your German Shepherd puppy fit and healthy. Do this by feeding them high-quality dog food equipped with the right nutrients. Groom your GSD at home. Instead of going to a professional groomer, learn to groom your German Shepherd puppy at home. All you need to do is buy the basic grooming tools and research how to groom your dog effectively. Plan your finances accordingly so no one will have to suffer in the long run. They are highly intelligent and loyal dogs that will protect you at all costs. Buying one from a reputable breeder is worth the hefty purchase price than purchasing from backyard breeders or puppy mills. On another note, you can adopt from a local rescue organization, but make sure to ask about any current health conditions that the dog may have. Aside from the financial aspect, make sure you are prepared for the full responsibility of being a German Shepherd puppy owner. Now you know how much German Shepherds cost, are you ready to own one? Share your thoughts in the comments below. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. German Shepherds are considered healthy dogs that can live many years. You must be able to pay for these dogs every month of their lives. For the most part, providing your dog with a lot of exercise and high-quality food will prevent the dog from developing unforeseen health issues. You will need to buy a dog-safe toothpaste, dog-safe shampoo, and certain medications, such as heartworm prevention, to keep your dog healthy its entire life. Not only do you have to feed your German Shepherd a lot of food, but you want to feed your dog food that is high quality and healthy. As long as your dog does not have any known illnesses or issues, you should not have to pay monthly prices. At the minimum, you should take your German Shepherd for an annual visit, assuming it is healthy. You also need to pay for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. Most of these medications last for 1 to 3 months at a time. It is completely up to you whether or not you decide to get pet insurance. If you are interested in getting health insurance for your new pet, Lemonade offers customizable insurance plans and responsive customer service. If you do not want to pay for pet insurance, you can simply set up a savings account instead. So long as you have a house and a yard for your dog to play, the home environment is generally suitable for dogs. Some environmental maintenance things you will need to buy include doggie bags. You need these if you take your dog for a walk or if you have a yard that you have to maintain. You may also need to pay for carpet cleaner, deodorizer, and other items to keep the house clean, despite your heavy shedding German Shepherd. This means that your German Shepherd can help you out when you are in a pinch, but it also means that you need to provide your German Shepherd ample entertainment, or else your dog could become destructive. At the very minimum, you need to buy heavy-duty toys for your German Shepherd. German Shepherds can be really rough with their toys. So, we recommend some sort of brand specific for rough-playing dogs, such as Kong. These boxes will offer toys, treats, and more for your dog, but these boxes can be pretty expensive too. Additional Costs to Factor In In addition to initial costs and monthly payments, there are some other additional factors you need to think about. For starters, obedience training is really important for dogs of this size. Obedience training can be a bit expensive at first, but it will be worth it in the long run. You need to pay for a pet sitter or kennel whenever you go on vacations and your dog does not come with you. If you are buying a German Shepherd puppy, you may also have to pay to replace or fix items the puppy damages. Think about accidents or unforeseen illnesses too. These can cost a whole lot in vet visits. Owning a German Shepherd on a Budget If you want a German Shepherd but are worried about destroying your budget, there are ways that you can own one of these wonderful dogs without spending a fortune either. Unfortunately, there is little you can change about the price of these dogs up front, but you can save on the monthly expenses. The most important tip for taking care of a German Shepherd on a budget is to know when to splurge. When it comes to dog food, make sure to select high-quality food. This will be more expensive upfront, but it will ensure that your dog is healthy for as long as possible, resulting in fewer bills. Splurging on heavy-duty toys is another great idea. These toys will cost more at first, but they should last much longer than cheap ones. For instance, there are a lot of coupons and promo codes you can use when purchasing toys, food, and other items for your German Shepherd. Even if you find coupons, only spend money on the essentials. Not to mention, buy crates and beds that are suitable for the dog as it grows. Many people make the mistake of buying crates and beds suitable for the puppy, but the puppy soon outgrows them. The initial cost primarily accounts for the dog itself and any other items required when bringing the dog home for the first time. Even after the German Shepherd has made your home its home, you will still have to pay some pretty hefty bills for the remainder of its life. Although the initial and monthly costs for this dog are a bit high, they are required for this dog to live a happy life. If you cannot afford to provide a German Shepherd the sort of life it needs and deserves, simply do not get a German Shepherd. If your breeder had not run these genetic tests on your dog—or if you adopt a German Shepherd from a rescue or shelter, you can run the Embark Dog DNA Test using a simple saliva test you can perform at home. Dogs with CLAD, type III typically exhibit symptoms such as recurrent ear infections, skin infections, pneumonia, and other respiratory infections. Dogs with DM first lose coordination in their hind legs, then they lose muscle mass and eventually the ability to walk. It is caused by a lack of one of the proteins needed for blood to clot properly. Dogs with hemophilia A will often suffer from uncontrolled bleeding, most commonly into the joints. Uric acid is a waste product that is normally eliminated from the body through the kidneys. When the kidneys are not able to remove enough uric acid, it builds up in the blood and can cause health problems. Dogs with hyperuricosuria are at risk for developing bladder stones, kidney stones, and other health problems. P-glycoprotein is involved in the transport of drugs and other molecules across cell membranes. Drugs that are known to cause adverse reactions in MDR1 dogs include digoxin, ivermectin, loperamide, and milbemycin. There are several different types of MPS, each caused by a deficiency in a specific enzyme needed to break down mucopolysaccharides. It is caused by a genetic mutation that impairs the ability of the blood to clot properly. This can lead to frequent and sometimes severe bleeding events which can be difficult to control, even with the help of medications. Dogs with this condition are at an increased risk for bleeding and may require lifelong monitoring and medical management. Symptoms include weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, and increased water consumption. Affected dogs have problems with the development of their skin, hair, nails, and teeth. They may also have problems with sweating and the function of their tears and salivary glands. Dogs with this disorder usually have a very thin coat of hair, often with areas that are bald or have very thin hair. Their skin may be dry and cracked, and they may develop sores on their skin. Nails may be abnormally shaped or missing altogether, and teeth may be missing or poorly developed. Dogs with X-linked ectodermal dysplasia often experience overheating. Attend a sanctioned dog show and talk with breeders and competitors for recommendations. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations regarding reputable breeders. Check the Facebook page of the breeder and read through the comments. Remember, however, that comments can be deleted by the page owner. The breeder should be happy to share the name and contact information for customers. Ask questions. Lots of questions. The breeder should be glad to share the test results from the health tests and screenings and should be happy to let you meet at least the mother if not the sire as well of the German Shepherd Dog puppies. Ask how often the dogs are bred. Ask to tour the kennels. Are they well maintained? Do the dogs look healthy? Beware of operations that will not let you tour the kennels and breeders that want to meet you in a parking lot to hand over the puppy. Be prepared for questions. The breeder should ask YOU questions as well; be suspicious if the breeder has no questions about your past history with pets, your living situation, etc. The breeder should want to know how much experience you have with herding breeds, what your training plans are and your plans for exercising the dog. Ask if the breeder will take the German Shepherd puppy—or adult dog—back if necessary. Ask for a contract. If medical problems are diagnosed, the breeder should readily take the pup back and provide a full refund. German Shepherd breeders may adopt out of the area but, nonetheless, you will want to go to the breeder to meet the parents, view the kennels and bring home your puppy in person. This will add to your expenses—but breeders that transport a puppy by air are putting the dog at risk. If you want to buy a German Shepherd Dog from an online breeder, please think again. There are numerous scams; people spend thousands of dollars for a dog and never receive a puppy. AKC warns potential pet parents to be wary of any seller asking for payment by Venmo, in gift cards or as a wire transfer. Dogs purchased from puppy mills can mean years of heartache and expensive veterinary care—and perpetuation of a cruel industry. The pros of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder: You may be able to select a puppy—including a choice of gender. A reputable breeder will be passionate about German Shepherds and will a resource for years to come. The cons of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder You will pay far more for a cattle dog from a breeder than a rescue or shelter. If you find a breeder who has German Shepherd puppies for sale at prices much lower than you are seeing from other breeders, you must suspect you are dealing with a backyard breeder who has not done health screening, with an online seller who is operating a puppy mill or with someone who is running a scam. You will need to wait until puppies are available. You will need to do your own due diligence to select a reputable breeder. German Shepherd Dogs in rescues are far less expensive that those at a breeder. Puppies under a year old will be the most costly. This group provides funding to a network of GSD rescues — they do not have dogs themselves for adoption. They have a list of affiliated rescues that can help located adoptable GSDs in your region. A breed rescue is, like the name suggests, a pet rescue that is specifically for one breed of dog. These are generally small non-profit groups that operate through a foster system of volunteers who love the breed. German Shepherd rescues specialize in German Shepherds of all ages; some have primarily purebred German Shepherds while others may also have adoptable Belgian Malinois and Dutch Shepherds. How to Find Breed Rescues Along with the list mentioned above, many breed rescues list their adoptable dogs on large adoption sites such as:. If you are looking to buy a German Shepherd puppy, then you should find one from a reputable breeder. While these puppies are more expensive, a reputable breeder can guarantee the health and behavior of the puppy. These dogs are prone to genetic diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia. These health issues can be avoided by genetically testing the parents, which is something reputable breeders usually do. When improperly raised puppies might have behavioral issues and can cause a lot of damage if they bite someone. A good breeder will have their dogs pass a temperament test. German Shepherd Dog Price While most dogs in shelters are adults, adopting a German Shepherd is a great way to find a dog without supporting unethical breeding. Sometimes these hardworking shepherd dogs are given up because they are very energetic. Not everyone is able to take care of a dog that needs a lot of attention and exercise. Some people buy a German Shepherd puppy without understanding the work involved in caring for this breed. Why Are They So Expensive? Breeding a healthy and well-behaved German Shepherd puppy is not easy! It is not as simple as crossing German Shepherds together. However, if you want a puppy of good temperament that is genetically healthy, there are other costs involved in the breeding and raising. This is especially important for a German Shepherd. You do not want a puppy that grows up to be aggressive or that suffers from mobility issues due to hip and elbow dysplasia. Papers A paperless German Shepherd puppy will be the cheapest. Typically breeders invest as little as possible in these pups. You get a puppy just how it is, without knowing its pedigree or background. A puppy with health certifications, temperament test results, and registration papers costs more than this. However, those papers will be beneficial not just for you, but also the puppy. This means your puppy meets the breed standard and is a purebred dog. The last thing you want is to buy a German Shepherd wolf-mix thinking it is purebred. Veterinarian Visits Reputable breeders not only genetically health test the parents, but they will also take the puppy to see a vet before 8 weeks for a basic health check. During these visits breeders will also have the puppies vaccinated, dewormed and placed on preventatives. When you buy a German Shepherd puppy from a reputable breeder, they will offer you a health guarantee. Most will also be able to provide you proof that the puppy has passed a temperament test. Training Some breeders also take the time to socialize and train their puppies. Many experienced breeders have a specialized training program that begins the process of potty training and basic obedience. This will mean you have an easier time housetraining your puppy, but you will have to pay for their efforts! These are all good signs that the puppy you are buying is of good quality. This will mean you are more likely to avoid any temperament issues or having to pay for vet visits to diagnose and treat hip and elbow dysplasia. Bloodlines Breeders who focus on breeding championship bloodlines will charge more for their puppies. A family might not need such a high-quality German Shepherd. All they need is a healthy and well-behaved puppy that will bring them years of happiness. However, there are many people who need a working dog or show dog. The most expensive dogs are those that are bred to be champions or protective and hard-working. Some breeders spend thousands of dollars just training a world class service dog. A family friendly guard dog with a protective temperament is not easy to breed consistently. Breeders have to factor in not just the genetics, but also the temperament and training. Origin The most expensive types of German Shepherds are those that are imported directly from Germany. Breeders must pay to stud and import these dogs which is not cheap. Since the German Shepherd breed originated in Germany, breeders in the US import dogs from Germany to breed puppies with a purebred lineage. Breeding in Europe is more regulated so the bloodlines are better protected. These puppies are known as European German Shepherds and are slightly different. They are smaller, have straighter backs and brighter coat colors. Some people think they look similar to a belgian malinois. Most European dogs are bred to be working dogs, while American dogs are more frequently bred for companionship. This is the same for American and German Rottweilers and American vs. European Dobermans. All of these breeder will be able to provide: Pedigree and kennel club registration. Documents that certify the puppy is free of any disease and has been checked by a veterinarian. A health warranty. Health records that guarantee the parents are genetically healthy and will not pass on elbow or hip dysplasia. These German Shepherd breeders all breed their puppies in accordance with the breed standard. None of them will sell puppies that are not registered with the American Kennel Club. Another good place to start looking for breeders is the American Kennel Club marketplace. Many of these puppies are bred to be family dogs and come with their papers. As you start looking into more well-known breeders or those that produce dogs of championship or working bloodlines, then the price of a German Shepherd starts to increase. Julia was a German Shepherd bred by the Harrison K-9 facility, highly trained in protection. She could also understand commands in three different languages. Her intelligence, as well as her ability to protect, were why she was priced so highly. Julia was bought by a billionaire businessman in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The rarest coat color is panda, which is why it is also the most expensive. These German Shepherds are black and white. It is a piebald pattern where the black coat is splotched with large patches of white. Some puppies can have other colors like tan, instead of white. Panda dogs are purebred, but the rarity of this mutation makes them very hard to find. There are very few breeders that sell the panda color. And he actually cost nothing! By the end of his life, Rin Tin Tin had appeared in 27 Hollywood films. Rin Tin Tin most notably helped Warner Bros. But these dogs come in more than just this classic color! There are 11 colors that are recognized by the breed standard. Check out the table below for some German Shepherd prices based on coat color. The tan color covers the chest, belly and legs. White A white puppy has a furry coat that is entirely white, allowing it to blend in with the snow. Its eyes and nose are black as coal. Black A black German Shepherd has a coat that is entirely black. Any other color would classify them as a bi-color. Blue A blue German Shepherd is not literally blue, but has a gray color with a bluish hue. Sable The sable color is one of the most common colors, but is a bit more interesting than the black and tan. The hairs of these dogs have bands of tan and black, giving them a very unique coloring. Some of the factors that contribute to this cost are: Food. If a breeder tries to tell you that his puppies are healthy because their parents never had any issues — do not believe him! It is impossible to diagnose e. Where can you find cheap German Shepherd Dogs? The question is — do you want to purchase a dog with questionable health and temperament? These dogs often are not purebred German Shepherd puppies, but are mixed with e. Labradors, Pitbulls or Golden Retrievers. If you end up with a dog with genetically based health conditions however, be prepared to spend a multiple of the original purchase price on vet costs! Temperament and behavior While a lot of good manners can be taught through consistent training, temperament is genetic to a certain level. When you buy an extra cheap German Shepherd puppy, you not only get a dog with questionable health, but also with unpredictable temperament! Even aggression can be genetic and can be passed on from the mom and dad to the offspring. You can save yourself a lot of time, nerves and money spent on future behavioral training by getting a well-bred and more expensive dog. What is the most expensive type of German Shepherd? Like in many dog breeds, certain rare German Shepherd colors are much more expensive than the most common colors and patterns. It is much more important that your puppy has a sound temperament and fits in well with your family and lifestyle than that he has a certain rare look. These dogs are mutts German Shepherds mixed with Miniature Poodles, Shelties or other smaller breeds. Once more, be certain to not decide on your future dog based on looks alone. A stable temperament and good health is much more integral than a certain size or weight. Working lines vs show lines The German Shepherd was originally bred as a working dog. Since his original use as a shepherd dog however, he has filled many different roles — from guarding properties over being used in the show ring to participating in Schutzhund and IPO trails. Depending on which lines your German Shepherd Dog comes from, the prices can vary a lot! Show line German Shepherds are the dogs that are bred for conformation shows. These are the type of dogs you should decide on if you would like a shepherd puppy as a pet and companion animal. If you are interested in using your German Shepherd as a protection dog and to participate in IPO trials, you should pick one from working lines. There are a lot of highly successful working line breeders both in North America and Europe. For this price, you get an absolutely flawless dog with extensive skills and perfect obedience. Some US dog owners interested in Schutzhund choose to import a puppy from old European working lines. While this might sound insanely high for a pet dog owner, for Schutzhund enthusiasts it is a typical price for a pedigreed German Shepherd pup. How much does it cost a month to own a German Shepherd? This will cover the basics: high-quality food and regular vet checks. Some German Shepherd owners spend considerably more money. Professional grooming is necessary for many German Shepherd owners, as these dogs shed heavily. This breeds tends to exhibit several behavioral issues that can be difficult to fix for first-time dog owners, including: Separation anxiety.

What is an "original" Australian Labradoodle? The Australian Labradoodle is different from all other labradoodles. Dogs from this cross typically were bred to each other over future generations, whereby the Australian dogs are also know as "Multi-generational" Labradoodles. The resulting labradoodles subsequently have been bred to each other, continuing the multi-generational tradition. Even when the other types of Labradoodles are bred on for generations, the result is not an Australian Labradoodle, as the attributes of the infused breeds were not included in their ancestry. The Australian Labradoodle Club of America was founded exclusively to foster and protect the original Australian Labradoodles that have come directly from Tegan Park and Rutland Manor breeding stock, or their offspring. Our mission is to maintain and improve the quality and soundness of the Australian Labradoodles, and to carefully monitor the further development of the breed. All member breeders are carefully screened to help ensure the future of the Australian Labradoodle. Our member breeders must breed to the highest standards. We have Breeder Mentors to assist member breeders and to help new breeders get off to a good start. If someone in your family has allergies, a multi-generation Australian Labradoodle from Red Desert Doodles should be your first choice. Each of our breeding dogs is fully health tested before they are eligible for breeding. Our puppies all come with a two year health guarantee. Where in the world are our Red Desert Doodles Families? Follow Us On Instagram. In addition, customers can choose from a range of multi-generational Labradoodles, which are all hypo-allergenic. Their multi-generational Labradoodle puppies can be purchased at eight weeks of age and come with a one-year guarantee against life-threatening genetic conditions. They breed for temperament, health, and confirmation to make these dogs comfortable family pets. In addition, they provide extensive post-purchase support as well. All of their Labradoodle puppies are grown on their acre farm in Northwest Arkansas, where they are constantly supervised and interacted with daily. As a result, their puppies are extremely friendly and easy to bond with. It also makes a move to their forever homes less stressful and anxiety-free. They come in different sizes and colors that will blend into any home. The top Labradoodle breeders grow their puppies in an atmosphere that encourages social interaction. Individual puppies in litters or kennels may not give you any indication of how they will act. They will assist you in selecting a puppy that is a good fit for your family. Always remember to ask a lot of questions of any respectable breeder, pay them a visit in person, and double-check all of their health tests. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Our Passion. With Pride. If you do not agree to all of the Terms, please do not use the Site. Your use of our Site following any such change constitutes your agreement to follow and be bound by the Terms as changed. 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Contact Us Should you have any questions or concerns regarding this Privacy Statement, please contact us by mail at: NelsonsLabradoodles. If you object to any such changes, you must cease using our website. Continued use of our website following notice of any such changes shall indicate your acknowledgment of such changes and agreement to be bound by the terms and conditions of such changes. 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 Bentonville Arkansas 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. The result is the perfect family dog and ideal companion, which are the top reasons why the Labradoodle breed is in high demand. Are you looking for Labradoodle puppies for sale in Arkansas? Our 5 best Labradoodles breeders in Arkansas give you the top breeder options to choose from to find your furever pup. Contact Preferable Pups and find your heart dog. If you need further assistance on your journey to puppy parenthood, reach out to us! Fairytale Lane Australian Labradoodles merged with Blue Nova Doodles At Fairytale Lane Australian Labradoodles, the goal is to produce family-friendly Labradoodle puppies with excellent health, temperament, and confirmation. With a focus on mini and medium-sized Labradoodles, this breeder ranks as one of our best Labradoodle breeders in Arkansas because of their care and detail both in breeding puppies and in preparing them for their new families. Fairytale Lane is currently accepting deposits for late summer and early fall puppies. All Fairytale Lane Australian Labradoodles puppies are thoroughly tested for genetic health concerns with certifications for eye, hip and elbow dysplasia, knee, and heart. A one-year health guarantee applies to each puppy. The breeder also offers lifetime support for the puppy and pup parents. Puppies are socialized shortly after birth and are raised alongside other dogs and children. To secure a puppy, the breeder asks potential pup parents to complete the online application on their website. Puppies receive deworming and their first vaccinations, a microchip and application, 30 days of pet insurance from Trupanion, and a two-year health guarantee for genetic illnesses. All puppies have a go home kit that includes a blanket, treats, some puppy food, a custom Fairytale Lane collar, and their veterinary records. Local residents can pick up their puppies at Fairytale Lane. Labradoodle Breeder Information. Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in Arkansas? We have answers. Give me an overview of Labradoodle puppies for sale in Arkansas. No more coughing, no more wheezing, no more sneezing.Friendliest Dispositions Australian Labradoodles are famous for their cheery dispositions. These lovable, fun, patient pups make the perfect companion, whether your pastimes include early morning jogs or early afternoon naps on the couch. Doodles love it all! Extremely Intelligent With genes from the super-smart Poodle and obedient breeds like the Labrador Retriever, Australian Labradoodles are ridiculously easy to train. These dogs love people, and that means they love doing whatever YOU love doing. The result? Super happy, super healthy puppies. Highest Arkansas Labradoodle Breeder Standards Our breeders follow the highest standards, including strict age and litter limitations for mommy dogs, ensuring our mommy dogs live in the best guardian homes, and maintaining top-notch living conditions for our baby Doodles. Elite Arkansas Labradoodle Genetic Lines We take great pride in bringing out the best in our dogs, meaning we strive to maximize the best Doodle traits you love while minimizing negative ones such as genetic disorders. Uptown Doodles are bred to be fun, healthy, and smart as a tack.

We are located in the state of New Mexico. We are responsible breeders raising quality AKC registered Bichon Frise puppies and Poodle puppies in a loving home environment. Bichon and Poodle These puppies are from first-class bloodlines, offering wonderful companionship to add joy to your life. Socialization is a top priority at our Sweetwater Ranch, and each Bichon Frise and Poodle puppy goes home with a health guarantee. As a professional groomer for several years, I fell in love with these two distinctly different breeds. With the Bichon, I love the calm and sweet nature, as well as the size, which is a more refined breed standard. As for the Poodle, I have a love and respect for their temperament, as well as their grace and beauty. Both breeds are hypo-allergenic and make a great choice for those with allergies. Neither will shed. These puppies are from first-class bloodlines, offering wonderful companionship to add joy to your life. We have our door open to visitors, and welcome prospective poodle and bichon puppy owners to come meet our family. If you are located in another area, we do offer safe shipping to get your new puppy to you. We have safely delivered Poodle puppies in Texas, Bichon puppies in Arizona, Bichon and Poodle puppies in Colorado, Poodle puppies in Utah, Poodle puppies in Hawaii, and Bichon and Poodle puppies in many other states around this country and in Canada. All of our Poodle and Bichon Frise puppies are raised in a loving home environment. We are a licensed Kennel in Santa Fe County. Our in-home kennels have just been completely remodeled. Ask us about available Bichon and Poodle Adults! Please call or email us for more information on our beautiful Bichon Frise and Poodle puppies. Check with the breeder for up-to-date information on puppy availability. Champion bloodline breeder. Let Us Help You Find Your Poodle Puppy Buying the wrong puppy will cost you hundreds or thousands of dollars in veterinary bills and incalculable emotional stress. But it could be time-consuming to find breeders of healthy, well-behaved Poodle puppies from good lines. However, we can save you time and from the trouble of finding a reputable Poodle breeder. Leverage our experience and expertise for your peace of mind. She will discuss with you what to expect when expecting a Poodle and prep you for Poodle parenthood. To get started, email your name and zip code to FindMeAPuppy bestpoodle. However, when looking for a puppy from a breeder, we recommend that you do your due diligence. Do not just jump into buying a puppy from a breeder. Take your time to research the breeder. Note that in addition to the price you pay for a poodle puppy, owning a poodle comes with the cost of taking care of a poodle. And owning a poodle can be expensive because poodles require frequent grooming because of the nature of their coats. Learn about how much it costs to own and keep a poodle here. We wish you the best of luck as you are about to embark on the beautiful journey of owning a Poodle! Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.Top 30 Smartest Dog Breeds In The World If you're a dog lover, you've probably heard the age-old debate: which dog breeds are the smartest? While all dogs have their own unique intelligence and personality, some breeds have proven to be consistently brilliant over time. In this guide, we'll explore the top 30 smartest dog breeds ranked, from problem-solving whizzes to trainable and intuitive pups. We've done our research to provide you with an updated and informative.These pooches are joyful, lively, eager to please dogs. They are adventurous, kind, family-oriented pups who love hiking, swimming, canine games, sports and any, and all, family activities. These puppies are merry and bouncy little marshmallows. They are cuddly and sweet pups who love running around, playing, making friends and are very enthusiastic learners. The breed is divided into 3 recognized categories: Toy Poodle; Mini; Standard. Although they differ in size, one thing is for sure: they are glamorous companion pets. Questions about Poodle puppies for sale in New Mexico? We have answers. Give me an overview of Poodle puppies for sale in New Mexico. Poodles come at different prices. Different things to consider are their height, size and weight, color as well as experience of the professional breeder. You will be able to afford one! Can breeders arrange travel for New Mexico Poodles out of state? Yes they do! The breeders, companies and businesses in our network know that perfect families do not always live close by, and sometimes far-distance travel arrangements have to be made. You may even be able to pick up your pup from an airplane close by or even around the corner - it all depends! How do you screen miniature Poodle breeders in New Mexico? We really care about puppies and their well being, so it is of the utmost importance that anyone who wants to be connected to us is screened under strict rules - and then they have to take our Breeder Pledge. The health of your puppy-to-be, its wellbeing, the way it is taken care of, the place it is brought up in - all of this matters to us. The internet is available to absolutely everybody - and that includes scrupulous breeders who are out there just wanting to cash in by selling puppies. We care deeply for dogs and puppies and we love connecting good and honest breeders with families who just want to open their homes to a new and wonderful puppy. What is a puppy mill like for miniature Poodle New Mexico? A puppy mill is an awful place that is unfortunately legal. Dogs are treated terribly and all their owners want from them are their puppies which they make money out of. Are there any miniature Poodle puppies New Mexico for sale now? We just need to know a little bit about yourself and exactly what you are looking for. Then begin your search and find the Poodle of your dreams. There are breeders, companies and businesses out there that are really excited to place their beautiful puppies in your home. What kind of dogs are mini Poodle puppies New Mexico? Poodles are actually part of a group of formal dog breeds. The Poodle is available in Toy size, Miniature size and large, regal, Standard size. They are highly intelligent and their origins belong to both Germany and France. It is hard to monitor all the puppy scams that happen daily on the internet so we make sure that we have a secure Breeder Pledge and a strict screening process, in order to create the best of relationships between our customers and our breeders, companies and businesses. Our reviews reveal all!

Just a few months ago, your little ball of fluff was tumbling around, getting into mischief. This article will help you determine when to switch your puppy to adult dog food, how puppy and adult dog foods differ , how to select the best adult dog food, and how to transition foods smoothly to ensure that your pup is set up for a life of good health. According to AAFCO, puppy foods should be higher in protein, fat, calcium, and phosphorous than adult dog foods. These macronutrients and minerals help support lean muscle and bone growth. They also provide enough caloric density to enable the puppy to grow and perform basic bodily functions such as breathing, digestion, and movement. Many puppy food manufacturers also include higher amounts of compounds like omega-3 fatty acids to support proper brain and eye development as your puppy ages. Large-breed puppies need specially formulated puppy foods that contain less fat , calcium, and phosphorous to moderate their rate of growth. This helps prevent skeletal diseases such as elbow and hip dysplasia that can result from growing too quickly. You need to ensure that your puppy has the extra protein, fat, and minerals they need to support their growth and development and prevent various bone, joint, brain, and eye disorders. But aside from breed size, you also need to consider whether they are spayed or neutered or if they are a highly active dog that needs more calories. Breed Size Because of their faster growth rate, smaller breeds such as Chihuahuas , Yorkshire Terriers , and Pugs reach adult size sooner than larger breeds such as Golden Retrievers , German Shepherds, and Dalmatians. The guidelines below will help you to determine when to start feeding adult dog food: Small breeds under 25 pounds when fully grown reach adult size at months of age. These breeds will be ready for adult dog food at months of age. Medium-sized breeds such as English Springer Spaniels , Australian Shepherds , and Border Collies are pounds when fully grown, and they reach adult size at months of age. With growth rates between those of small breeds and large breeds, medium-sized dogs will be ready for adult dog food around months of age. Large breeds are over 50 pounds when fully grown. There are many large breed dogs, from the Boxer to the Great Dane , so the point at which these breeds reach mature size and weight can vary between 15 and 24 months of age. With the wide range of breeds under this category and a generally slower rate of growth, these dogs will need to stay on puppy food until they are months old to ensure they have enough protein and other nutrients during this stage. They also need to get those nutrients in the proper ratio to support the growth and proper development of their larger skeletons. Activity Level Athletic dogs may benefit from staying on puppy formulas longer, as the extra protein supports lean muscle growth and function, and the extra fat and higher caloric density can allow energy for high-intensity activities. Spaying or Neutering Breed size is not the only factor when determining when to transition your puppy to adult dog food. Because puppy foods contain a higher calorie density, feeding the correct amount during the remaining months of puppyhood is very important to prevent obesity as the puppy matures into an adult. Spaying or neutering does not usually slow the growth rate of your puppy, but it may affect the growth plates in the bones of large breed puppies, setting them up for joint problems later in life. In addition, unspayed female dogs who will be bred early in life may need to stay on puppy food longer to support gestation and lactation following whelping. Switching Too Early or Too Late Because the timing of switching your puppy to adult dog food is so important, there can be negative consequences from both switching too late and switching too early. Dogs that are taken off puppy food too late may be more predisposed to obesity and associated health problems later in life, given the fact that puppy formulas have more fat and calories per cup than adult dog formulas. The extra protein and calories in puppy foods can also increase the rate of growth in certain dog breeds if they are not fed a breed-specific puppy food formula. If these breeds are left on puppy formulas too long, they can be more predisposed to developing joint problems in the future. Similarly, if your puppy is taken off a puppy formula too early, they may suffer from nutritional deficiencies and growth abnormalities, failing to reach adult size around the expected time and increasing their risk of future bone, joint, brain, and eye issues. How to Pick the Right Adult Dog Food When it is time for your puppy to transition to adult dog food, how should you go about selecting the best adult formula for them as they become young adults? The young adult stage is typically considered years of age, as middle age starts by year in many dog breeds. While most dogs are generally quite healthy during this stage in their lives, feeding them appropriately during their young adult years can help lower the risk of obesity, arthritis , and dental disease as they age. Choosing a Brand The many adult dog food companies are not all equal in terms of quality. Dry Food vs. Wet Food The next step is to decide whether you would like to feed your dog dry food, wet food, or a mixture of the two. Both types of food have positive and negative aspects, and the choice to use one, the other, or both depends on the specific needs of your dog. For example, wet food: Has a higher moisture content than dry food and may be better for dogs that do not drink much water. Has a lower calorie density per volume than dry dog food, allowing dogs to feel fuller on fewer calories, which helps control their weight throughout their lives. Is often more palatable and appetizing than dry food, so it may be a great option for picky eaters or for stimulating the appetite of dogs that are less interested in food. Can be beneficial for dogs with oral abnormalities or dental disease, as it is easier for them to chew. By contrast, dry food: Can be a more economical option than wet food. Is a great option for easier portion control and for dogs that tend to graze throughout the day rather than consume a full meal in one sitting, as dry food will not spoil as rapidly if left out for long periods of time. Is beneficial for dental health, as the crunchy pieces act as an abrasive against the teeth during chewing and help prevent tartar buildup and thus tooth and gum disease. Can be easily used as a tool in puzzle toys for enrichment and mental stimulation. Is be used in slow feeders for reducing the rate at which dogs are able to consume their meals. When your pup eats more slowly, the risk is lower of them swallowing too much air and developing bloat, a potentially dangerous condition. Nutritional Requirements The final step in selecting the best adult dog food diet is to examine the Guaranteed Analysis panel on the bag or can of food and ensure that the formula meets a few major nutritional requirements. Other formulas have glucosamine for joint health or probiotics for gut health. Some dogs are sensitive to chicken and do better on beef- or salmon-based formulas. If you are unsure of the additional needs for your dog outside of the key ingredients and nutrients listed above, consult with your veterinarian. This will help ensure gut regularity with less physical activity. Remember that dog treats and other sources of calories in the diet need to be included when determining the appropriate amount of food for your young adult dog. How to Switch Your Puppy to Adult Dog Food Once you have selected the best adult dog food for your puppy, you are ready to transition them slowly onto their new diet. Because rapid diet changes can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs, such as vomiting and diarrhea , it is recommended to introduce the new food slowly over a period of five days or so. Continue to feed your puppy as many times per day as they are used to throughout this process. If your puppy develops vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of appetite, stop feeding the adult dog food and see your veterinarian. How Often to Feed Your Dog For large-breed puppies, it may be best for them to continue to eat three times per day. For medium-breed puppies, they should continue to be fed twice daily when they have been transitioned to adult dog food. For small-breed puppies, you may consider transitioning them to eating twice daily instead of three times per day after they are fully on adult dog food. This may involve providing more attention and playtime for your dog as they become accustomed to fewer feedings per day. Consider extra walks, extra playtime, or brushing to distract them from feelings of hunger. Some dogs may benefit from high-fiber adult dog food to increase feelings of fullness between meals. Your dog may also enjoy cleaned, raw fruits and vegetables such as sliced carrots, cucumbers, or apples without the core or seeds. If you have any questions about transitioning your puppy to adult dog food, contact your veterinarian. In addition, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist can be a great resource for any issues that come up, and they can help develop the best diet and feeding schedule for your new family member. Featured image: iStock. Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? Once he has reached maturity, you can switch to adult dog food. Not all breeds reach maturity at the same age, however, so this can make it harder to know when to switch. How Long to Feed Puppy Food Puppies need a complete and balanced puppy food until they reach maturity. For dogs, adulthood depends more on breed size than their age. Because large and giant breeds take longer to mature, they need to eat puppy food longer than small- or medium-sized breeds. Medium Dog Breeds: Medium-sized dogs weigh between 21 and 50 pounds at maturity. They tend to reach maturity around 12 months of age. They need to eat puppy food longer than small- and medium-sized breeds. They can tell you when to switch to an adult dog food and help make it a successful transition. Leftovers in a bowl could signal that your puppy is getting full and needs less calories throughout the day. Continuing to feed puppy food past the point of maturity could cause him to become overweight, which can lead to other health problems. Choose a complete and balanced adult dog food formula once your puppy reaches maturity to help him maintain his ideal body condition. When to Switch Puppy to Adult Food Once you know when your puppy will reach maturity, you can decide when to switch to adult food. If your puppy will be full grown at 12 months, you can start transitioning him to an adult formula around his first birthday. How to Transition Puppy to an Adult Dog Food When you stop feeding puppy food, you must change more than just the food he eats. The number of meals and portion sizes will shift, too. Most puppies eat three meals a day , but adult dogs can eat just two meals per day. A gradual transition helps prevent stomach upset. Days 3 to 4: Serve half puppy food and half adult dog food. Days 8 to Serve only adult dog food. If your dog resists eating the adult food or experiences an upset stomach, extend the transition time as needed. Consult with your veterinarian for more help if needed. For more information and tips on puppy and dog nutrition from our experts , visit our Pet Expertise page. Related articles. The general rule is to switch your Golden Retriever puppy to adult food once they reach physical maturity. For Golden Retrievers this is between the age of 12 to 18 months. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adults and need to stay on puppy food until they stop growing. Switching too early can have a negative effect on the growth and development of your pup. Golden Retrievers are considered a large breed and reach their physical maturity much later than small breeds do. All dogs differ as to when they reach maturity, which is why there is no one size fits all answer to this question. Can switch to adult food at 9 to 12 months. Medium Breeds: 20 to 50Lbs. Can switch to adult food at 12 to 14 months. Large and Giant Breeds: Weigh more than 50Lbs. Can switch to adult food at 12 to 24 months. He will continue to fill out until the age of 2 when he reaches his adult weight. Keeping your Golden Retriever pup on puppy food until the age of 12 to 18 months is a good guideline to follow. But, there are other ways to tell if your Golden is ready to make the transition. Here are some other signs that will let you know your pup is ready for adult food: Skipping Meals or Leftover Food Puppy food is designed specifically for growing puppies. It is higher in fat, calories, protein and nutrients to help support growth and development. Once your puppy reaches adulthood, he no longer needs as many calories. You may notice that your puppy is skipping meals or leaving food in his food bowl because he is still full. This is a good indication that your puppy is ready to make the switch. Puppies typically eat 3 meals a day, when you make the switch to adult food, you can also reduce the number of meals per day down to 2. Decreased Activity Level We all know that puppies have a ton of energy, and Golden Retriever puppies seem to have even more! But, with age comes a decrease in activity level. Once your puppy starts to mature, you will notice they also start to calm down. Weight Gain Once your Golden Retriever puppy is fully grown, they no longer need high-calorie food. If you continue feeding puppy food to your adult Golden Retriever, you may notice excessive weight gain. Weight gain is a clear indication that your Golden Retriever is past the puberty stage and is ready to switch to adult food. The transition to adult food is important, as puppy food can quickly pack on the pounds. Weight gain is usually seen in Golden Retrievers who are spayed or neutered because owners continue feeding them the same amount of food as before. The age of spay or neuter lines up to around the time your Golden Retriever should transition to adult food, which is when they are finished growing. Puppies require a higher amount of calories, protein, nutrients and fats in order to fuel their growth. While puppies need the proper food to grow and develop, adult Golden Retrievers require food to maintain their bodies. Puppy food is: Smaller in size, making it safer to chew and swallow. Softer in texture, catering to the softer and smaller teeth of a puppy. Contains nutrients and fats essential for bone growth, muscle development, and energy. Carefully balanced for growing puppies. Feeding properly balanced puppy food is important, and large breeds like Golden Retrievers benefit from specially formulated large-breed puppy food. Most vets and nutritionists consider a pup a large breed if they weigh between 55 to Lbs when fully grown. Large breed puppy food is lower in fat and calories than regular puppy food, and it has a carefully balanced ratio of calcium to phosphorus. This allows for slow and steady growth, supporting joints and bones. For more information on large breed puppy food, check out this article from PetMD. Different quantities and ratios of nutrients are ideal for different life stages. Keeping your adult Golden Retriever on puppy food can lead to obesity and other health issues such as faster growth, which can lead to hip and elbow dysplasia. Puppy food is too rich and dense in nutrients which not only causes significant weight gain in adults but could result in stomach upset and diarrhea. It could also lead to an overdose of vitamins and minerals. Adult dog food contains nutrients that are suited for dogs who are passed their growth stage. Adult Golden Retrievers need food that helps them maintain their optimal health and weight. The switch to adult food needs to be gradual, over a period of 7 to 10 days. This will prevent any stomach upset in your pup. Basically, the best way to transition your puppy to adult food is to buy a bag of adult food when you purchase the last bag of puppy food. Gradually mix the two foods together, increasing the amount of new food over a period of 7 to 10 days. By day 9 or 10 your Golden Retriever should be eating his new adult food. If at any time during the transition period your Golden Retriever experiences an upset stomach or diarrhea, or simply resists the adult food, you can extend the transition time as needed. Final Thoughts So, as you can see there is a right time and a wrong time when you should switch your Golden Retriever puppy to adult food. Golden Retrievers grow and mature at a slower pace than smaller breeds do, and require the essential nutrients found in puppy food for much longer. It is recommended to keep your Golden Retriever puppy on puppy food until the age of 12 to 18 months. You want to gradually introduce the new food in order to avoid any stomach upset. Is your Golden Retriever puppy ready for adult food? At what age did your Golden Retriever start eating adult food? Share your thoughts and comments below. I would love to hear from you! Jenny I am the proud owner of a Golden Retriever named Ellie. She keeps me busy, and when she is resting, you can find me working on my blog. She is always close by though. I live in Stirling, ON Canada with my husband, and we both enjoy the never a dull moment life with our Ellie. Spread the love. Check Price Why do we need to switch from puppy food to dog food golden retrievers? They will need more high source of nutritional needs so they can stay healthy and preserve they well-being. But the first few weeks of the transition period are not that easy. Your golden retriever might experience tummy issues. You got to make an extra effort to identify the right food for your puppy during his period of becoming an adult dog. That said, you need to regularly consult with your vet and strategize about the week of the transition period so your dog will become safe with no gastrointestinal tract issues. At first, it may be hard to tell which can be mistaken for health issues or others. But these tell-tale signs are most likely that your puppy is no longer a pup but a developing adult reaching its maturity. Although we, dog owners, hard to accept that they are becoming adult golden retrievers, we still need to prepare for those inevitable events. What we need is to support them and we need to identify these signs. While those new teeth are coming in, you will need some chewing sticks or chew toys for your growing Golden puppy. This is also the time where you need to consider switching from puppy food to dog food which can be done slowly and through a discussion from your vet. Meaning that your puppy is becoming more responsible and matured. They are comparable to any highly active dogs because of their endless energy which makes them want to play all day long. But over time when your puppy is beginning to become less playful, this may be a sign that he is leaning towards adulthood. They may want to play with you every five minutes. He eats slower and eats less Puppies are known for their being voracious eaters. But when they hit their adulthood or while in their transition period to their full-grown dog, they will eat less and you will also notice how slower they eat than they are before. The puppy begins to physically mature Upon reaching 9 months of age, your golden retriever puppy is along its way to becoming mature. There are different kinds of maturity when it comes to dogs and they are largely affected through their gender. For the female dogs, they may have changes in appetite, may appear anxious than normal, and will experience a vaginal discharge of blood. You may not see it happening in an instant, but by the time and as weeks go by, you will realize that your puppy becomes a dog. Usually, the signs are, they listen attentively and responds to you and the other dogs from social cues, they can read if you are angry or happy to them, and they can easily settle down. So watch out for these signs. When he stops growing When your golden retriever has fully grown both physically and emotionally, this is definitely the obvious sign that your dog turned into a full-grown adult dog. This happens when your dog is already 1 to 3 years of age. This is the time where your dog will be needing an adequate source of protein-based nutritional needs such as whole meat mainly with first meat as their main ingredients when buying an adult dog food. Also, you may want to match their type of activity to the dog food you are considering. A general guide for feeding the golden puppy and adult Puppies who are in their first months will develop a built-in timer. This prompts him to eat based on schedule because they are a creature of habit. You should give your golden puppy at least three times a day of meals for the first three months. Prior to that, by the time he reaches four months, feed him at least twice a day permanently. Puppies ages 12 months more or less The above mentioned is the general rule. Yet, there are different cases of how puppies grow depending on their breed size. For golden retrievers, they belong to a medium-sized breed. Their age of maturity will hit by the time they are 9 months of age. While large breeds will hit their maturity when they are 18 to 24 months of age. Transitioning from puppy food to dog food golden retriever After you are completely aware and decided to shift your dog from puppy food to dog food. But be very careful to suddenly give your dog food. The key is to slowly introduce your puppy from puppy food to dog food. Let your golden retriever taste the dog food slowly so that he can get accustomed to the taste of the dog food. Normally this transition process will take about 7 to 14 days. That said, you can start the transition period by giving 75 percent of puppy food and a 25 percent adult food formula for at least 2 to 3 days. After the succeeding days, you can try increasing the adult dog food ratio to 10 percent until it becomes percent adult dog food. As a result, within 10 to 14 days, your golden retriever will somehow liken the adult dog food. If not, you can just go slower with the kibble food ratio until your dog is fully satisfied with the taste. This is among the important process during their transition period. One of the best and appropriate dog food for your golden retriever is this particular Royal Canin. Because it's breed-specific. That said, its nutritional value is specifically curated for a specific type of breed. This is to ensure that what you are getting meets the standard diet of your Golden. There's more than that, this particular dog food has a heart-healthy recipe. And because golden retrievers are vulnerable to heart problems, this will help them prevent any heart disease. Added the fact that it's also made to reinforce the skin of the dog. One of the main ingredients includes Brewers rice, brown rice, chicken by-product, oat greats. It's also packed with adequate vitamins like taurine and DHA for strong vision and helps cognitive ability. All the more, each kibble has a different design and even shape and size which is suited for the dog's jaw structure and biting patterns. This is well suited for a golden retriever because of specific nutrients and dietary needs added. Also, it supports some of the most health problems that the golden retriever commonly faces. So, this is actually worth buying for. Pros Specifically designed for golden retrievers Unique shape and sizes Grain-free.