how to know golden retriever puppy

how to know golden retriever puppy

Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Labradoodle Highlights Friendly and intelligent: Labradoodles are known for being friendly and intelligent dogs. They are good with children and other animals, and they are easy to train. Hypoallergenic: Labradoodles are often considered to be hypoallergenic, which means that they do not shed as much as other dogs. This makes them a good choice for people with allergies. Active and playful: Labradoodles are active dogs that need regular exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, going for walks, and swimming. Loyal and devoted: Labradoodles are loyal and devoted dogs that make great companions. They are always happy to see their owners and they love to cuddle. Versatile: Labradoodles are versatile dogs that can be trained for a variety of tasks, including therapy work, obedience, and agility. They can be expensive to purchase and maintain. They require regular grooming, especially if they have a curly coat. They are prone to some health problems, such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Overall, Labradoodles are wonderful dogs that make great companions for people of all ages. If you are looking for a friendly, intelligent, and hypoallergenic dog, a Labradoodle may be a good choice for you. Labradoodle History Wally Conron, who was in charge of the breeding program for the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia, purposefully crossbred a Standard Poodle and Labrador Retriever in to develop the Labradoodle as a hypoallergenic guide dog. The first cross produced Sultan, a dog with a hypoallergenic coat, aptitude, intelligence, and personality suitable for being an effective guide dog. Sultan worked successfully with a woman in Hawaii. Other breeders saw the merit of crossing these two breeds, and the Labradoodle quickly rose in popularity like its Labrador Retriever parent. These dogs are often produced by crossing a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle, but multigenerational breeding has begun in an attempt to produce a viable and recognizable breed. The Australian Labradoodle Association and the International Australian Labradoodle Association are taking steps to move this designer breed into registered breed status in the next few years. These groups have made great efforts to bring breeders together so that they are working to achieve the same standards through multigenerational breeding. Labradoodle Size The Labradoodle comes in three size variations, depending on the size of the Poodle used for the first-generation breeding. The three sizes are Standard, Medium, and Miniature. The Standard Labradoodle should be 22 to 24 inches in height for a male and 21 to 23 inches in height for a female, while both can range in weight from 50 to 65 pounds. The Medium Labradoodle should be 18 to 20 inches high for a male and 17 to 19 inches high for a female, with both weighing from 30 to 45 pounds. The average size for a Miniature Labradoodle is between 14 to 16 inches and 15 to 25 pounds. All of that said, there is a lot of variation in Labradoodle sizes. Some can be smaller or larger than expected. Labradoodle Personality The Labradoodle is an intelligent dog who can make the ideal family pet if properly trained. They are friendly and accept and treat everyone like their best friend. They can be gentle, but they can also be joyful, showing their happiness through exuberant jumping and playing. They also tend to be easygoing, since the Labradoodle was bred not to be aggressive. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training, and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Meeting siblings, parents, or other relatives of the dog is also helpful for evaluating what a puppy will be like when they grow up. Socialization helps ensure that your Labradoodle puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking them to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help them polish their social skills. Here are a few conditions to watch out for: Ear Infections: These can plague Labradoodles because of their floppy ears. The ears trap moisture and should be regularly checked. X-ray screening is the most certain way to diagnose the problem. Either way, arthritis can develop as the dog ages. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia : Similar to hip dysplasia, this is also a degenerative disease. The disease varies in severity: the dog could simply develop arthritis, or they could become lame. Treatment includes surgery, weight management, medical management, and anti-inflammatory medication. It can cause mild or severe seizures that may show themselves as unusual behavior—such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding—or even by falling down, limbs rigid, and losing consciousness. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Allergies: Allergies are a common ailment in dogs, and the Labradoodle is no exception. Treatment varies according to the cause and may include dietary restrictions, medications, and environmental changes. Diabetes Mellitus: This is a disorder in which the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels. The dog will lose weight because food is not being used efficiently. Symptoms of diabetes are excessive urination and thirst, increased appetite, and weight loss. Diabetes can be controlled by diet and the administration of insulin. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA : This is a family of eye diseases that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina. Early in the disease, affected dogs become night-blind; they lose sight during the day as the disease progresses. Many affected dogs adapt well to their limited or lost vision, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Hypothyroidism : This is a disorder of the thyroid gland. It is treated with medication and diet. They require about 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day and would do better with a fenced yard in which to expel some energy. Some Labradoodles, especially in the first generation, can require even more exercise. The Labradoodle makes an excellent jogging companion but also needs some time off-leash to burn off steam. The Labradoodle is an intelligent and eager-to-please dog. Training should be easy as long as consistency and positive reinforcement are the methods. Socialize them from puppyhood, since they tend to hurl themselves headlong into canine situations without regard to the feelings of other dogs. This can lead to some problems if the unknown dog is aggressive. Despite their activity levels, a Labradoodle can adjust to living in suburban or city environments and can do well in rural settings. A crate is also a place where they can retreat for a nap. Crate training at a young age will help your Labradoodle accept confinement if they ever needs to be boarded or hospitalized. Never stick your Labradoodle in a crate all day long, however. Labradoodle Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 2. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on their size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your Labradoodle in good shape by measuring their food and feeding them twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at them. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on their back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see their ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Labradoodle, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Labradoodle Coat Color And Grooming Although a Labradoodle can have one of a range of coat types, the desired length is four to six inches. They have a single coat with hair ranging from straight to loose curls. There are three types of texture: The Hair coat, which is similar to fur in shedding breeds, is the least popular. Hair coats shed and usually have a normal doggy odor. This coat is seen in first generations, although breeders try to avoid it. The Fleece coat has a silky texture often described as an Angora goat texture. This coat ranges from straight to wavy. Labradoodles are considered to be non- to low shedders, especially those with a Fleece or Wool coat. Hair coats tend to shed just as they do in other breeds, ranging from very low to average shedding. The Labradoodle comes in a wide variety of colors. They can also have parti-colored coats, which consist of brindles, phantom, patched, or sable colors. Grooming requirements vary depending on the length and type of coat the dog has. Generally speaking, you can expect to brush a Labradoodle about once or twice per week. Some can be clipped or trimmed every six to eight weeks to keep the coat easy to maintain. Like Labs, Labradoodles can be prone to ear infections, so take a little extra time caring for their ears. Dry and clean them after a swim, and check them once a week for dirt, redness, or a bad odor that can indicate an infection. Then wipe them out weekly with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to prevent problems. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding—and your dog may not cooperate the next time they see the nail clippers come out. Handle their paws frequently—dogs are touchy about their feet—and look inside their mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Labradoodle Children And Other Pets The Labradoodle does well with children and can be an affectionate and gentle companion for any child. They can also be exuberant and might knock down smaller children, but they will love them with all their heart. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Labradoodles usually get along well with other dogs and pets. Like most dogs, they need training and socialization for optimum success at living with and visiting other animals. Labradoodle Rescue Groups Labradoodles are often brought home without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. Many end up in the care of shelters or rescues because of this. It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Labradoodles because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Labrador Retriever or Poodle breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues. More Info For You. Their adorable curly fur and expressive faces make you want to cuddle them — and these little guys love nothing more than a good squish. All this and more makes our labradoodle puppies for sale one the most in-demand in our center. Activity-loving families adore these dogs for their propensity towards sports, and anyone who prefers low-shedding pooch benefits from their wooly or fleecy fur. Labradoodle puppies for sale are so cute and come in such a wide range of colors that it makes choosing your new best friend super-hard! While spearheading the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia breeding program, he conducted the crossbreeding of a standard poodle and Labrador retriever in view of it being a hypoallergenic guide dog for blind people. The first example of this type of dog, called Sultan, went to live with a lady in Hawaii, where other breeders saw him as an inspiration and this is how Australian Labradoodle puppies started. Both the International Australian Labradoodles Association and the Australian Labradoodles Association of America are working hard to incorporate more intergenerational breeding so these dog breeders can register this type of dog as a purebred dog. Its gentle, obedient and intelligent personality combined with a hypoallergenic coat make it ideal for family members with allergies, but it also makes an excellent service or therapy dog. Labradoodle Puppies Lifespan When properly taken care of, healthy dogs tend to live anywhere from 10 to 13 years. The lifespan of our Labradoodle puppies for sale is slightly above average at 12 to 14 years. Here are the life stages of multigenerational Australian Labradoodles: Puppyhood: First five months Adolescence: Between five months and two years Adulthood: Between two and three years Middle age: Between seven years and 10 years Senior: Over 10 years Labradoodles need the most attention and care in the first and last stages of their life. During puppyhood, their minds are highly impressionable, which is ideal for training. During their senior years, Labradoodles are more susceptible to health problems, which means owners need to keep a watchful eye. Labradoodle Size The size of labradoodle puppies for sale directly relates to the size of their parents and which generation of breed Labradoodle breeders chose. The larger the puppies, the larger the adult dog will be, and the faster their growth will be coming out of the puppy stage. A standard labradoodle puppy will weigh from pounds by the time it reaches two months of age. By a year old, it will have grown dramatically to up to 80 pounds, depending on the size of its parents. Medium Labradoodles occupy a spectrum of sizes between standard and mini Labradoodles, with the specifics depending heavily on the details of the breeding pair that birthed them and the breeding program they come from. Labradoodle Puppies Temperament While Labradoodle breeders originally bred the Australian Labradoodles as therapy dogs, their fun, friendly personalities made them popular pets. Now you can find these sociable dogs in homes across the globe. Here are some of the top personality traits of our Labradoodle puppies for sale. They tend to do best in active households where they can work off all that pent-up energy. You can fulfill their needs through the following activities: Walks or jogs: Labradoodles make great walking companions and can even keep up with you during a jog. Playing in the yard: Enjoy a game of fetch with your furry friend in the yard or just let it loose on its own. Dog sports: If you stay active through sports, consider making your labradoodle a part of your routine. Bring it on bike rides, go for a run together or kick a ball around in the yard. Obstacle courses: Set up an obstacle course for your dog using household items. Scavenger hunt: Creating a scavenger hunt for your canine is a great way to exercise its body and brain. In general, Labradoodles need anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day. You can also enroll them later at a Labradoodle puppy alumni school for proper training. Friendliness What makes Labradoodles the perfect puppy compare to other dog breeds is their ability to get along with just about anyone. They inherit this trait from their Labrador retriever parent, a breed also known for its outgoing nature. You can trust your labradoodle to form friendships with everyone, from children and older adults to strangers and other puppies. Thanks to their affectionate, sociable personalities, Labradoodles make great pets for first-time owners, families, or anyone looking for a companion. Intelligence Thanks to their poodle parent breeds, Labradoodles are incredibly intelligent dogs. Because Labradoodles are intelligent, they often crave mental stimulation. Labradoodle Puppies Grooming Our Labradoodle puppies for sale have a variety of coat textures that dog owners enjoy, but in general, their low shedding coat needs brushing at least twice a week. Not only does this keep them tangle-free but it also removes excess debris from their coat, keeping them fresh and hygienic. Regularly trim the hair around their eyes and in between their paws to prevent these problem areas from causing irritation. Pooches with fleece coats tend to have longer fur and benefit the most from going to a professional groomer — although every dog loves getting pampered once in a while. At Pride and Prejudoodles, we send a can and a bag of the foods we use for free with your hand-delivered bundle of joy. If you need to change it for any reason, it must be done gradually to avoid stomach upsets. Just bear in mind that a diet is such a crucial aspect of wellness that feeding them good quality food will add years to their lives compared to opting for low-quality feed. Pride and Prejudoodles is here to help. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Labradoodle puppies for adoption. Larger Labradoodles will need more than a small breed. Walking the dog will be an everyday necessity for the next years. So, be realistic about how much time you have available. Before sharing it with another living being, you should make sure there is enough space. You all want to be able to live together comfortably. Thirdly, whilst your kids will grow, it might be easier if they are very young baby-toddlers to have a small dog. The dog won't tower over them, and it might be easier for you to look after both. That being said, maybe a more pressing issue would be the size of your vehicle. It might even be the deciding factor. Another factor is health. That includes DNA testing for hereditary diseases. The larger the dog, the increased risk of structural health problems. In particular, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and patellas knees. So, before adopting a puppy, please make sure these checks are done. They significantly reduce the risk of your dog developing avoidable health conditions. A small factor to consider as well is gender. Male dogs are generally slightly larger and stockier than females. Regardless, boys and girls are likely to vary in adult size once fully grown. The points mentioned are areas to think about before bringing any animal into your home. Whilst we emphasised the concerns for larger dogs, all sizes of Labradoodles make fantastic pets. We wanted to highlight these points to make sure that you know how each size differs in terms of requirements. If it is, great! They can be a wonderful addition to your family! This is because the other infusion dog breeds influence the final height and coat type of the puppies. When you think about the height and weight of these breeds, it makes sense. It makes this breed much easier to size, compared to a British Labradoodle. Eight different breeds make up an Australian Cobberdog. Depending on the size of your Cobberdog, they will either have Standard Poodle or Minature Poodle genes. If you wanted a smaller dog, for example, a Spaniel would help bring down the sizing; a Standard Poodle would not. What about F1b Labradoodle sizes? F1b denotes a backcross to a pedigree breed, usually the Poodle breed. Backcrossing is when a hybrid e. Labradoodle is bred to a dog of similar genetics to one of its parents. If you're contacting Labradoodle breeders with F1b puppies available soon, ask for the parents and grandparents sizes. This is particularly important on the Poodle's side. Both generations of backcross Labradoodle breeding will influence their final size. It wouldn't matter that the direct parent is medium-sized. Mixed breeds, like all pedigree dog breeds, can vary in sizing. So all sizes are approximate and for illustration purposes only. Your dog could grow to be bigger or smaller than their parents. This variance is often a result of their ancestors' sizing genetics. It might also be from the breeds used during cross-breeding. Cobberdogs are the best if the height is important to you. Their sizing is much more predictable. This is especially true if you want a small Labradoodle. The other pedigree breeds offset the height of the Labradoodle Retriever and Standard Poodle. When filling out our application form , you can pick more than one size and state your preference. Our most popular request is an Australian Cobberdog in miniature medium size. It's a good size Labradoodle puppy for families with young children. UK Breeders since .We Export Worldwide. Before you even look at medium labradoodle puppies for sale, you should know what you need to do to take care of them. Dogs are pretty independent creatures, but still require a good bit of upkeep, so before you start looking at medium labradoodle puppies for sale, here are a few things you should know. How Do You Groom Them? Some labradoodles need only a little bit of brushing, while others require a lot of grooming. It all depends on their coat. Regular and thorough brushing is crucial, and will need to be done several times a week. However, they still require baths. What Do They Eat? Every dog is different, and has different dietary needs depending on their size, age, and levels of activity. Speaking of the vet, labradoodles under the age of 10 need to see a veterinarian once a year, or as directed. Dogs years and older, though, need to see a vet twice a year. That being said, there are creative payment options and other sources of assistance that can help cover vet bills. If you are, then head over and see what medium labradoodle puppies for sale we have! Not suited to apartment living due to size and exercise requirements. Good with Children Yes. A Standard Labradoodle is classified as a large dog breed. When they are fully grown, Standard Labradoodles get to a height of 20 to 26 inches .Their full adult weight is between 50 and pounds .Yes, Standard Labradoodles are a large breed because they weigh at least 50 pounds which is the condition for a dog to be considered a large breed. They also have an average height of 23 inches which is just over the 22 inch height requirement for a dog to be considered a large breed. Standard Labradoodles are 20 to 26 inches .Evidently, they are about 5 or 6 inches taller than this because of their head however the standard is to measure dogs at the withers their shoulders as their heads move so much. A Standard Labradoodle is between 50 and pounds in weight. Female Standard Labradoodles tend to be lighter weighing between 50 and 85 pounds while males generally weigh between 60 and pounds. There is such as wide weight range as they are a mixed breed dog and their weight highly depends upon the percentage of Poodle to Labrador Retriever genes they have. Generally Labradoodles that have a higher percentage of Labrador Retriever genes weigh more than ones that are more Poodle. Standard Labradoodles are fully grown between 12 and 18 months of age. As the largest version of the Labradoodle, they take the longest to reach their full adult size. The general rule is that large breeds grow at a slower rate than small breeds. It is expected that a Standard Labradoodle would reach its full height around 10 to 12 months of age and for the remaining months will gain weight at a steady rate. A Standard F1 Labradoodle is a first generation pup. This means that it was the result of breeding a purebred Standard Poodle with a purebred Labrador Retriever. A Standard F1b Labradoodle is the first cross-back generation. The main reason why breeders produce cross-back generations is to get a litter of Labradoodles that have curlier fur that more closely resembles a Poodle. This coat is more hypoallergenic and therefore more highly suited to allergy sufferers. Labradoodles can be both medium and large dogs, it depends on what size Poodle is bred with the Labrador Retriever. Standard Labradoodles are classified as a large dog breed while Medium Labradoodles and Mini Labradoodles that are on the larger size are considered to be medium sized dogs. Standard Labradoodles live for 12 to 15 years. This is the same lifespan length as Medium Labradoodles and only slightly shorter than Mini Labradoodles. As a mixed breed dog, Standard Labradoodles have less hereditary health issues than their purebred parents which prolongs their lifespan. This is one of the reasons why this cross breed was made in the first place. Check out the adorable Labradoodle puppies that are currently available here! PuppySpot is a dog adoption website that connects breeders with prospective pet owners. They have a zero tolerance policy for puppy mills which is why they screen every breeder annually! They have placed over , puppies in homes and offer various trusted, USDA-certified transportation options to deliver your puppy to your home safely! Further Reading.

I cannot fully articulate how delightful he is, you have to experience it for yourself to fully understand. As with almost all of our Bernedoodles, he will do well in just about any lifestyle and will be a loyal companion and friend for the family lucky enough to get him. This guy will be a loyal friend with his pleasing personality and laid back nature. Birthdate: Parents: Zuko and Fergie Just a few of the beautiful babies in our new litter. We breed for color, conformation and temperament. While we endeavor to keep our Bernedoodles moderately priced and affordable for most families, but top quality puppies are not inexpensive. Prices vary according to color, markings, coat texture etc. An extra silky coat texture keeps our Bi-Color Bernedoodles very hypoallergenic and non-shed. Tri-Color Bernedoodles Rare colors are a passion at Cobblestone. We specialize in stunning Tri-Color and Tri-Color sables. Prices are higher for puppies that approach perfection in markings coat and color. Bernedoodle puppy health We believe that core nutrients are vital for raising healthy puppies. I've found it takes more than just an expensive dog food to keep dogs healthy. Start your puppy on good supplements to help him grow up healthy and strong. Our parents and puppies thrive on them. Shipping Your Bernedoodle Baby Our puppies travel with a Puppy Nanny to their new homes to ensure a comfortable and safe journey for each puppy that leaves Cobblestone. Fees are based on puppy size and destination. Puppies travel to major airports and availability and scheduling are limited so please be flexible : Occasionally, a puppy will need to travel via United or Delta Air Cargo, we have used this service for many years and they do an excellent job of delivering our babies to their forever homes! She has settled in just great. Oh my heart she is spoiled rotten! It's currently nap-time after playing with a new toy that squeaks. Thank you guys! Bernedoodle Colors and Patterns Bernedoodles come in many colors and patterns. To see the coordinating waitlist, visit this page! Please see this page for more examples of what bernedoodles look like! Here are the most common colors and patterns! Traditional Tri-Colored Bernedoodles have the same pattern and coloring as a berner but with non-shedding hair! The fathers producing traditional tri colored bernedoodles regularly are Sargent Pepper, BB King and Ringo Next, we have the Traditional Tri-Sable which is mostly brown with white berner markings and black or brown points. Up next is the Merle Category! The most important aspect of breeding with the Merle gene involved is making sure only one parent is a Merle gene carrier. This speaks to the importance of finding a great breeder who does genetic testing. Traditional Blue Merle coat color! Jacob, Zeppelin and Jerry are the dads for these beauties! All are non-shedding. Blue Merle only when Jacob is the dad does this color come out shown below. The Phantom color refers to a bi-colored black and white or brown and white bernedoodle without the white berner markings. Also gorgeous! The Brindle Bernedoodle is stunning! This color and pattern combination is one of my all time favorites! Finally, here we have the solid white, black or brown Bernedoodles! Seen mainly in our F1b Mini and micro Bernedoodle litters! Share this:. If black, puppy has markings outside of the normal pattern for a parti puppy. Markings can range from silver, light tan, to dark brown, to red. These markings are found over the eyes, on the sides of the face, on the chest, on all four legs and feet, and under the tail. There is no white on the puppy or the white is very minimal. Unlike a phantom puppy, there is white present somewhere on the puppy. It is most common to only have white on the chest and sometimes the feet. These puppies most closely resemble a bernese mountain dog in their color patterns. It is more rare to get the white on the face with perfect berner markings, so please understand if leaving a deposit, you could be waiting a very long time for a puppy like this. The two non-traditional tri-colors we produce are sables and brindles. A sable is when the outer hair is a darker shade than the hair underneath. These puppies are a different color when they are shaved down. They commonly have places where their hair tends to stay darker like on the ears or tail. They may or may not have phantom markings and can have varying amounts of white. Brindle is when the puppy has stripes of different colors on their body. If all these colors werent confusing enough as it is, you can also have a sable brindle combination where the puppy has the stripes, but the hair underneath is still lighter too. These puppies will have varying sizes of patches. Several colors of hair create the "blue" and "red" color that these babies are known for. One puppy could appear to be several colors as its base coat. No two babies are ever the same!!! The phantom merles have those distinct phantom markings that we love so much! On average, these babies will appear to be three or more colors! These babies have large patches of distinct white, not just small spots of white hair mixed in which is common in merles. These puppies can appear to be five or more colors. The are the most unique color out there and are something extra special!!! A little about merles: Standard sized merle bernedoodles are especially hard to find. They are one of the few colors that are auctually harder to find in Standard size than mini. The reason being that standard sized merle standard poodles are difficult to find. The merle color is very uncommon in all poodle sizes. They can usually be readily found in toy and mini sized poodles. The toy poodle is then bred to a standard sized female to create the Moyen or medium sized poodle. This poodle as the mother cannot safely be bred to a bernese mountain dog. She will be far too small. If this moyen poodle is the father, the puppies will be a larger mini or very small standard size. These are not Large standard sized puppies that we are hoping to have. This merle moyen poodle should be bred again to a standard poodle in order to bring as much size as possible to the offspring, and then that puppy could safely breed for standard sized puppies. It takes several generations to safely and correctly breed for True Standard sized babies. It takes many years to create the perfect poodle to make these babies happen! We maintain the right to refuse sale to anyone we do not feel comfortable placing a puppy with for any reason. This right also extends to people who have already left a deposit with us, in which this is the only case that a deposit will be refunded. We want only the best for our babies and if we believe you may not be a fit home for one of our babies for any reason, we will exercise this right. Thank you for understanding. Copyright Kandissweetpuppies. All Rights Reserved. As we combine two different purebred dogs, there are so many possible variations and outcomes! Of course, a Bernedoodle puppy will inherit its traits and characteristics from its lineage. The traditional Bernese Mountain Dog coat features a solid jet black base color with white and rust or tan markings. The tan and rust markings are usually present above the eyes, on the cheeks, on each side of the chest, on the legs, and under the tail. The white markings are found on the muzzle, between the eyes, on the chest, neck, and paws. Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle Colors Poodles, on the other hand, most commonly come in a variety of solid colors, such as black, blue, gray, silver, brown, red, apricot, cream, cafe au lait, silver beige, and white. In addition to that, Poodles can also come with different color combinations like black and brown, black and tan, black and apricot, black and cream, brown and apricot, brown and white, and other combinations of the more common solid colors. As you might guess, black and white Bernedoodles have a black solid dominant color and white markings on the face, neck, and chest. Merle Bernedoodle One of the rarest, but most beautiful Bernedoodle colors is the merle pattern. Merle Bernedoodles have a solid base color with speckled patches of diluted colors throughout the coat. The merle coat gene is not as common in either Poodles or Bernese Mountain Dogs, but it can be passed onto the Bernedoodles when one of the parents is carrying the merle gene. A higher chance of achieving a merle Bernedoodle pup is by crossing a Poodle with a merle Bernedoodle. However, ethical breeders will never cross two merle Bernedoodles, as this increases the risk of serious health issues like blindness and deafness. Red and White Bernedoodle Red and white Bernedoodle is another rare color combination that features a mixture of reds and whites. The more traditional red and white Bernedoodle color has a solid red base on most of the body, while the chest, face, paws, and legs have white hair. Additionally, there are parti red and white Bernedoodles, where the base color is white throughout the body. In contrast, the red markings are found on the face, ears, and sometimes on the back as well. Black Bernedoodle A solid black Bernedoodle is more of a rare find compared to the black and white Bernedoodle and tri-color Bernedoodles. If the goal is to achieve a black Bernedoodle, both parent pups should carry the same recessive gene. The Bernedoodle tri-color pattern features three different colors on the coat. There can be various tri-color patterns with colors like black, brown, tan, rust, apricot, red, white, and cream. The dominant base color is usually darker and white markings are found on the face, chest, feet, and paws. Sable Bernedoodle Another popular choice is the sable Bernedoodle color. Sable Bernedoodles have a solid base color, but the hairs have black tips. Of course, the overall look depends on how much of the hair lengths are colored black from the ends. Phantom Bernedoodle Phantom Bernedoodles are somewhat similar to tri-colored Bernedoodles, but they have less white markings and more brown hues in their coats. The most common phantom combination is black and tan. These pups usually have dominant black color all across the body with tan markings on the face, chest, legs, and paws. This is again a more rare Bernedoodle color out there, but it sure does look beautiful! Chocolate Bernedoodle Chocolate Bernedoodles can come in a variety of patterns. Rare Bernedoodle Colors Of course, in addition to all of the Bernedoodle colors and color combinations we listed above, there are countless other colors and patterns that the puppies can come in. Many of them surprising even the breeders. It all comes down to their genetics and which dominant and recessive genes are present. Additionally, keep in mind that not all puppies in the same litter inherit the same coat colors. As with any Doodle, combining two different breeds gives us endless possibilities. Like many other Doodles, Bernedoodles often carry the fading gene , which is usually inherited from the Poodle side of their lineage. This typically occurs anywhere from 6 to 10 months of age. The fading, also called clearing, is most noticeable in darker colored Bernedoodles who have blacks and browns in their coat. Black Bernedoodles with the fading gene often change into silver, gray, or bluish tones. Chocolate or brown Bernedoodles can turn silver, cream, or silver beige over time. However, merle Bernedoodles might be at a slightly higher risk of certain health problems, such as deafness or blindness. To be fair, it all comes down to your preferences and which colors you like. However, we do recommend you choose your new family member based on their health and temperament, not for their looks only. Black Bernedoodles can fade into gray or silver tones, and chocolate Bernedoodles might fade into silver, silver beige, and beige tones. The only way to accurately predict the color of your puppy is by DNA testing, which you can arrange at an additional cost with your breeder. The rarest variations are bi-color black and white Bernedoodle, sable, phantom, and merle patterns, solid black, and solid white. In conclusion, choosing the color of your Bernedoodle puppy is one of the more difficult decisions that you face. They all look beautiful in their own way, but one thing is for sure — all Bernedoodles have amazing personalities, regardless of their coat color. We hope this guide has given you a good idea about all the different Bernedoodle colors and patterns that are available out there. What is your favorite Bernedoodle color? Let us know in the comments below! Avoid making the mistake of choosing the wrong Doodle temperament for your family, lifestyle, or current living situation.

Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article. Questions about Boxer puppies for sale in New York? We have answers. How much are Boxer puppies for sale in New York? There are a lot of factors to take into account when you are looking for Boxer puppies for sale New York. Breeders will price their Boxers differently based on factors like gender, color, size, eye color, and more. Will I only find local Boxer pups here? No, you will find Boxers from all over the country. Our network of breeders and businesses is located all over the country, including New York Boxer breeders and those in other states. They are experienced at transporting pups safely and securely, so wherever you find your perfect pup, you can go and meet them at your nearest major airport. Do you screen and vet the breeders in the network? We are very strict when it comes to adding Boxer breeders New York to our network, and only the best are approved. We have a strict set of standards that must be met. We take ethics, cleanliness, legal compliance, and more into account, so you can search for Boxer puppies for sale in New York with complete peace of mind. You can search online for Boxer puppies New York, but be aware that what you are likely to find are the Boxer New York breeders that are just best at marketing. There is absolutely no guarantee they are the best. Puppy mills are sometimes chosen by people looking for the cheapest Boxer puppies in New York they can find. But puppy mills are best avoided. They are like factories for dogs where proper breeding practices are often not followed. And dogs who are not bred properly can be more prone to developing harmful behavioral problems and health issues. Are Boxer puppies available right now? Do you have something very specific in mind for your puppy when you begin searching for a Boxer for sale New York? Then search our network today to find exactly what you want. We have a huge number of businesses and breeders in our network, and they have lots of Boxer puppies to choose from, making it easier than ever to find your perfect puppy. Where exactly do Boxer dogs come from? Boxers were bred as guard dogs in the s from a mix of dogs including the Bulldog and the German Bullenbeisser. They quickly became popular for their mix of desirable characteristics including strength, loyalty, intelligence, and playfulness. What are Boxers like? Boxers are famously clownish in their behavior, and they just love goofing around. They are also very intelligent and incredibly loyal. If you find a New York Boxer for sale, they make great guard dogs and will take their job of looking after you and your family very seriously. How big are Boxers normally? Boxers are characterized as medium to large dogs. However, as with all dog breeds, some will be larger than others. On average, fully grown Boxers usually weigh between about 60 and 70 pounds. If I live in an apartment, can I still get a Boxer? As Boxers are dogs with a lot of energy, you may be wondering whether they are suitable for apartment living. The answer is yes! But just keep in mind when you look for Boxers for sale New York that they will need a lot of exercise. Daily exercise is essential, so make sure you take them out for a long walk or two.

Healthy Genetics — Bruiser Bulldogs Focus on healthy bloodlines All of our English Bulldog puppies for sale undergo a rigorous socialization program that ensures they are equipped for a plethora of new experiences. Parents are hand selected for trademark bruiser bulldog breathability and must complete a series of health exams to ensure their offspring maintain the high quality characteristics we are known for. As English Bulldog breeders located near Virginia, we find that many potential adopters located in the city are interested in our breeding program. If you are looking for a English Bulldog puppy, feel free to contact and start a conversation about our adoption process. If you do decide we are a good fit, we are only a short flight away! If you are interested in a English Bulldog Puppy and are located near Virginia, feel free to reach out to us! Check out our available puppies! Things to do with your English Bulldog Virginia is a great place to live with an English bulldog. With its beautiful scenery, endless activities, and friendly people, Virginia is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. The park is home to a variety of hiking trails, waterfalls, and meadows. Your English bulldog will love exploring the park and meeting new friends. Hike the Trails The Shenandoah National Park has a number of beautiful hiking trails that are perfect for dogs. Your English bulldog will love exploring the woods and getting some exercise. Visit the Virginia Beach The Virginia Beach is a popular beach destination located in the southeastern part of Virginia. The beach is home to a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and fishing. Your English bulldog will love swimming in the ocean and meeting new friends. Your English bulldog will love getting some fresh air and seeing the sights from a different perspective. So come on down and explore all that this great state has to offer with your English bulldog. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in Virginia? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Meet the puppies! We are located in Powhatan County in Virginia and have over seven years of breeding Bulldogs. We love dogs just as much as you do! We make sure that all of our puppies are raised and treated with lots of love, and have special attention paid to them. Both English and French Bulldogs are an attractive and eye-catching breed. They love car rides, leash walks and just spending time with you. They are the most lovable and sweetest dogs available, learn quickly and are always eager to please you. Our selective breeding process ensures you get the best dogs available. We make sure our puppies are of the highest quality around. We take pride in our process. All of our puppies come with a 6-month health guarantee, club registration, microchip and have age appropriate vaccinations and deworming. We would love the opportunity to be a blessing in helping you find the perfect English or Frenchie for your family. Let us guide you to the perfect addition to your family! Check out our available puppy page. Meet the Puppies! See all of the puppies! I would highly recommend Cute Ugly Bulldogs if you are looking for a puppy. We are considering adding a second one to our family. They are honest, fair, and good people to work with. I would do business with them again! Carly Kimble Johnson We got our Frenchie in January and the vet says he is by far the healthiest she has seen in a long time. We love our Zeke boy! Thank you guys for allowing us to make him part of our little family! Rebecca Cash Rawe We just added a new addition to our family today…. The vet saw her and just could not express how healthy she was and how well kept she is. I would definitely be coming back for another addition!!!! Liz Yun Veronica was super nice and answers texts if I have questions about our pup. We love our pup. I definitely recommend. Winnie McKinstry My family got our Frenchie from Veronica and she was so nice, helpful, and responsive. We love our baby Bella!! Thanks so much! Taylor Colly We have a beautiful new baby girl from this wonderful family! Talullah is a bundle of energy and sweet kisses. We would do business with them again! Jourdan Jones Veronica and her husband are wonderful and care a great deal about their bulldogs. Melissa Reinhold McDaniel. This cute nub tailed bulldog is so happy and full of life. She is so much fun and loves everyone. Indy is a 2 year old, female, Bulldog and pitbull type mix. She weighs 47 pounds and is full grown. She is already vaccinated, microchipped and spayed. She is thankfully Heartworm negative. Sadly she came to us with some wounds from her previous owners leaving a harness on her to tight that cut into her skin in several places. She is healing up but the vet said the hair may not regrown due to the damage. Most of it is under her arms and it is not extremely noticeable anymore. Indy is happy! She loves everyone! She has been fantastic with other dogs. She absolutely loves having another dog to run with. She can be a kind of in your face dog as bulldogs are so other dogs will need to be tolerant of her pushy play antics. We have not had her around cats yet. She loves everyone and has done great with kids so far. She would be best with kids that were a bit older as she does still get very excited and jump on people. She also does some play chewing on hands and arms that we are working on. Another thing to consider with kids. Her soccer ball is a favorite. She will entertain herself for hours with a ball. She prefers the game where you chase her while she keeps the ball. She is decent with training but has a few quirks. She will occasionally have a poo accident in her crate but does much better if you keep her in a plastic style kennel. Indy is very active and curious!! She needs a family that has time to exercise her properly. Loves balls, playing with other dogs or anything active. Having another active dog is best to help with all that energy. She will need a fenced yard to be happy. This little lady is a spitfire of playful joy. She will keep you laughing with her adorable funny antics. She does have a chill side also and is up for belly rubs anytime. We have not seen any issues with her sharing toys, treats or food with humans or other animals. As long as your household can provide her the proper outlet for her energy she is an absolutely wonderful dog! Vet and home checks required.

We have answers. We look at a multiple factors, including price range, when helping you choose the best puppy. In general, prices can vary based on factors like age, temperament, pedigree, size and more. Golden Retriever puppies in Washington DC will be priced similarly to comparable puppies in other areas. We do! Our network of breeders and companies includes Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Washington DC and across the country. We only work with the best of the best and our Washington DC area Golden Retriever breeders and partners are no exception. Are you able to provide puppies from out of state? Not a problem. The breeders and businesses that we partner with are skilled at getting puppies safe and secure from one state to another, excluding Hawaii and Alaska. We vouch for the trustworthiness of any Golden Retriever puppies Washington DC that are acquired through our network. Many boutique pet stores get their supply from these places and the animals can sadly have health and behavioral issues. This is why we are committed to our Breeder Pledge and only working with experienced and vetted experts. The pedigree of the puppies with the breeders and companies we work with is impeccable. If you are looking for a purebred, you will be able to verify through all of the proper paperwork the lineage of your new puppy. How does the Uptown Puppies service work? Our special MatchMaker tool enables us to make only the best matches to create those special memories! By finding out the most critical components of your preferences and lifestyle, our algorithm and experts are able to introduce you to one of our one of a kind breeders and businesses where you can meet your new fur ball! Why should I go with Uptown? The most important part of bringing home a new puppy is knowing that you are supporting ethical breeding and can provide a good home. We take away the stress of these worries and do all the work behind the scenes so you can focus on what really matters, getting to know your new pooch. Our english golden retriever puppies are raised in our home with us, their parents, aunts, cousins and sisters. We are a small family breeder with all of our dogs and puppies living in our home with a lovely large one acre, fenced-in yard just 20 minutes southwest of downtown Richmond, VA. They are socialized with us and our other dogs in our home. Absolutely NO cages, puppy pens are used occasionally to keep order in the house, but never kennels, or runs or outdoor doghouses. Although we do not use crates as a general rule ourselves, many Shadymist puppy families and friends do with great success. We agree that crate use is highly recommended for at least the first few months as it aids in house-training, prevents boredom destruction, maintains a safe environment for the puppy from curiosity mishaps, as well as a peaceful place to nap with a toy and a blanket. Your English Cream Golden Retriever puppy is raised from birth to your home within our home with constant love, attention and interactive stimulation, all of which promote a healthy, stable people-loving personality with good basic manners! Nature has a way of changing our plans sometimes. We cannot put in an order for the correct amount of females or males. We will also only breed if we have a substantial amount of commitment deposits for that litter. Please be patient, we are committed to find the right puppy for you, it might even be with another breeder we recommend that would better fit your needs. Phoenix, Arizona. We breed quality Golden Retrievers for service, therapy, facility, hunting and pets. Sires we pick have all of the same health certifications as well. Which means that our goals for being a good breeder revolve around Health, Education, Accountability, Responsibility and Tradition. Our local owners enjoy six weeks of free puppy classes after they take their pups home and have unlimited counseling with us and our trainer. Family Pets Goldens are made to love We believe Golden Retrievers are the best for all types of owners. They are so gentle that you can be assured your loved ones are safe around these wonderful dogs with responsible training. Service, Therapy and Facility Dogs goldens are made to serve We breed for service, therapy and facility dogs at a high quality. All of our puppies are trained as if they are going into service. We typically have about pups in every litter that go into service of some kind. We usualy donate one puppy out of every litter. It is our tithe and a gift we love to give to someone in need. Our Training Mission goldens are made to work We strive for excellence in our training program. All puppies are introduced to many sounds, textures and surfaces to create a confident dog. We offer complimentary 6 weeks of puppy Socialization and Obedience with their litter mates. Testimonials "Quality parentage and conscientious breeding standards.He is beyond eager to learn. She has truly changed our lives, especially our daughters life. Sybil and Knox had a handsome litter of eight males 9. Reservations are now open. Pups can go home in 8 weeks! Toga and Knox are planning a litter to arrive around October .Three male and three female reservations are now open. Mercy and Knox are planning a litter to arrive around November 7. Golden Testimonials This is Rex. Age 2. A proud Saratoga Goldens sporting his new official Therapy Dog vest and badge. He loves bringing smiles and cuddles to everyone he meets. Emily Cal dark green is doing well and enjoying his new home! Thank you so much for such a happy and healthy puppy. He is so loved! Allie We love our little Emma aka Cream!! She is so smart and growing quickly before our eyes! She is very happy and playful, has imprinted on her big brother Cobe, easily climbs up and down stairs, walks on a leash around the property, enjoys the autumn leaves, sleeps all night, and is a joy to our lives! He spends a few days per week making visits to local schools, hospitals and retirement home. Everyone loves him! Ryan Daisy is happy and healthy in Massachusetts! She's especially in love with tennis balls and using them as excuses to dig under the fence we're working on that training. We're thrilled to have her as part of our family! Lock in your puppy price with a reservation deposit today. Please see our lower price on our link at the bottom of this page. We accept all major credit cards, Apple Pay, and cash. Reserving online ensures you get a puppy when they are ready to go to its new home. As responsible hobby breeders, we will not breed dogs with DNA deficiencies. We use the Golden Retriever DNA testing for six areas, including the eyes to ensure the best parental genetics in furthering the Golden Line. Every dog is different, and genetic mutations are always possible in any line, but we do our best to ensure healthy and happy puppies. Training a puppy takes time and patience, but you can do it! The companion and friend you develop in your puppy will be an excellent addition to your household for many years to come. Place a deposit down for your puppy to ensure you get your puppy from our next litter. Please read the details below: What are the advantages of a Saratoga Goldens puppy? Our Golden puppy parents are each genetically tested. Please view each mother's dog for her complete testing details. Our Goldens have a 1-year health guarantee as described in the reservation contract. Our Goldens are enriched with a daily multivitamin and are treated with supplements from Nutrivet as needed. You will also receive a bottle of vitamins with your puppy. Our Goldens are raised in a clean, safe property with our loving family. Our Goldens enjoy lots of sunshine and exercise. Our Goldens are exposed to other dogs and other animals, such as domestic rabbits. Our Goldens are veterinarian checked and will have all age-determined vaccinations Duvet Spectra 5, week 6 and worming before pick up. Just off I.Many customers make a memorable trip and enjoy the attractions in the Saratoga region when picking up their puppy to take home. Our Golden puppy online selection process in week six reservation 1 receives 1st pick, the 2 reservation gets 2nd pick and so forth. If necessary, our Golden 3 free boarding days after pick-up day. Standard boarding fee for extra days. Our Golden price is competitive with regional breeders. See price here. Online reservation deposit options include payment with any major credit card and Apple Pay. We will contact our waiting list once we have puppy litter news! We are a c 3 nonprofit relying on donations , supporters , fundraising, and event and retail proceeds for funding to provide top-quality care to all DVGRR dogs. Learn more about our Golden Gateway campus and watch our campus tour video. Watch our video to take a quick tour. Click to learn more. Our mission is simple: Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue provides new beginnings for displaced Golden Retrievers, and other golden-hearted dogs, along with a full array of adoptive and educational support for the adopters and broader community. If you are interested in adopting, please attend one of our Monthly Open House: Meet the Dogs, Tour, and Shop events, held every second Saturday of the month from 10am until 12pm. Plus, we always need event sponsors. Learn more, click here! All dogs must remain on lead during the event; no flexis. We ask that each dog be handled by one human. Click here for all the details! Details are coming! Help us cover the costs of renovations! Click here for details! Kennel Caregivers — Dedicated, responsible, hard-working, compassionate individuals. Must be 17 years or older. Click here to learn more and apply.

All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Sometimes I look at photos of my dog when she was small enough to sit in the palm of my hand. When did she get so big?! Times like those make me wonder, too: how much bigger will she get? Exactly when is my puppy likely to reach her full size and stop growing? If these sound like questions you have asked yourself, then you are not alone as a pet parent. Puppies change so much in the first months of their lives, but then things slow down. As a result, their changing size can sometimes creep up and surprise you. Exactly how long it will take for your dog to reach their full size depends on their breed, and them as an individual. Read on as we look at when different types of dogs reach full size and signs that indicate whether your pup may still be growing or has finally stopped. Puppies can reach their full adult size anywhere between six and 24 months of age. Smaller dogs tend to reach their full size sooner, and live for longer, while larger dogs tend to take a bit longer to fully mature and have slightly shorter overall lifespans, but these rules do not hold true for all dogs. Below you will find a list of some of the most popular breeds and when you can expect them to reach full size. Labrador Retrievers One of the most popular breeds in the United States often used as working dogs, Labrador retrievers measure between .They tend to reach their full size at around 12 months of age. Golden retrievers are another dog popular as both family pets and working dogs. They measure between 20 and 24 inches and weigh between 55 and 75 pounds. They will reach their full height at around 12 months. German Shepherds Popular as police dogs, affectionate family pets, and guard dogs, German shepherds measure between 22 and 26 inches and weigh 50 to 90 pounds. They are not considered fully grown until they are at least 18 months old. French Bulldogs These adorable compassion dogs usually stand about 12 inches tall and can weigh between 16 and 28 pounds they have a tendency to put on weight when overfed. Unusually for such a small dog, they need months to reach their full size. Bulldogs A little bigger than their French cousins, people love these dogs for their distinctive faces. They are usually 12 to 15 inches tall and weigh about 15 pounds. It takes them about 18 months to reach their full size, skin rolls and all. Poodles Among the most intelligent dogs, poodles are fantastic companions and are often used in mix-breed dogs because of their hypoallergenic coats. While toy and miniature poodles are common, standard poodles are inches tall and weigh 45 to 70 pounds. They do not reach their full size until two years of age. Beagles These little English hunters with their floppy ears measure 13 to 16 inches and weigh between 20 and 25 pounds. They reach their full size at around 18 months. Rottweilers While rottweilers can have a bad reputation because of the ways that they have been used in the past, they are naturally intelligent and non-aggressive. They are big dogs, measuring inches and weighing 80 to pounds. They are slow maturing and will only stop growing somewhere between two and three years old. Daschunds Sausage dogs come in many shapes and sizes, but all have distinctive long bodies with short legs. The standard size is 14 to 19 inches and can weigh between 12 and 30 pounds. They grow up fast and will reach their full size at around eight months. Pembroke Welsh Corgis These little herders from Wales will measure between 10 and 12 inches and weigh between 25 and 30 pounds. Most will be pretty much their full size by one year of age, but they may have additional growth spurts until they are as old as three. Australian Shepherds These intelligent working dogs from California despite the name measure 18 to 23 inches and weigh between 35 and 70 pounds. They will reach their full size at around 16 months of age. Yorkshire Terriers Yorkshire terriers are one of the smallest dog breeds measuring just inches and weighing just pounds. They stick to the height-related growth rules and will stop growing when they are only months old. Great Danes Great Danes are great in terms of both their size and their personality. These German kings and queens grow to between 28 and 35 inches and weigh between and pounds. They will keep growing until at least 18 months, and will probably be full size before two years. Boxers Boxers are another German dog of medium to large size. They grow to between 21 and 24 inches tall and weigh pounds. They will reach their full height somewhere between 18 and 24 months old. Siberian Huskies These dogs were bred to pull sleds in cold places, but their cute wolf look makes them popular household pets. They grow to inches tall and weigh 35 to 60 pounds. They will reach their full size at 15 months of age. Cavalier King James Spaniels These dogs can look a bit bigger than they are thanks to their flowing locks. They will reach between 12 and 13 inches tall and weigh pounds. They will reach their full size at around 18 months. Doberman Pinschers Regular Doberman pinschers are quite large dogs, measuring inches and weighing pounds. They will reach their full height at around one year old but will continue to fill out noticeably until around two years old. Shih Tzu This Asian toy dog breed from Tibet measures between 8 and 11 inches and weighs pounds. They will be their full adult size by the time they are about 10 months old. Pomeranians Fluffy Pomeranians are inches tall and weigh just pounds under all that hair. Most will reach their full size at six or seven months old. English Mastiffs English mastiffs are big dogs , measuring around inches and weighing up to pounds. They will only reach their full size at about three, but growth slows significantly around the one year mark. Chihuahuas Another of the toy breeds, Chihuahuas, hailing from Mexico, measure inches and weigh between 4 and 6 pounds. They will reach their full diminutive height by around 9 months of age. Basset Hounds The short legs of a basset hound mean that they only grow to about inches, but they can weigh as much as 75 pounds. Maltese These white balls of love and fur measure inches tall and weigh pounds under all that hair. They will reach their complete size at months old. Dalmations Dalmations are known for their distinctive spots, but they are also strong and intelligent dogs. They reach between 19 and 23 inches and have an athletic physique of pounds. Greyhounds There is more to these spindly littler racers than it seems. They grow to between 27 and 30 inches and weigh pounds. They will reach their full racing height at months old. Mixed breed dogs are likely to reach full size sometimes between the time period for their two purebred parent breeds. If your dog is not on the list, you can compare them with dogs of a similar size for a general guide. The best thing to look at as a guide is their paws. Look at the size of paws of similar dogs to help you determine whether they are the right proportions for your pup. If you are desperate to know how big your dog will be, you can also do a dog DNA test that can help you narrow down the possibilities. Factors That Influence The Size Of Your Dog While breed and genetic hereditary factors are the most important factors when it comes to the size of your dog, there are a few lifestyle factors that may result in your pup being bigger or smaller as well. Worm Infections If your puppy becomes infected by hookworms or roundworms as a puppy, this can stunt their growth. The worms steal calories and nutrition from your dog, which means that it is unable to grow the way that it should. Worm infestations are more common than many people imagine, as they are easily picked up in the environment. Poor coat quality, potbelly, and regular diarrhea are all signs that they may have worms. Other puppy diseases such as Parvo can also stunt their growth. Most dogs are vaccinated against Parvo, but it can be a problem when they have not yet been vaccinated. Prioritize food that is rich in protein and healthy fats, and keep carbohydrate intake under control to ensure they can reach their full size in top health. Spaying Or Neutering While many dog owners will tell you that spaying or neutering their dog seems to have stunted their growth, the evidence is anecdotal. In studies that have been run, it seems to have a negligible effect. It is often a good idea to delay spaying female dogs until they are fully grown, rather than at around six months, but this is to prevent related cancer risks as opposed to size considerations. Excessive Exercise Exercising your puppy too much can be detrimental to their growth. While it may not stunt their overall growth, it can cause different parts of their body to grow at different speeds. This can lead to malformations such as elbow and hip dysplasia. This is most common in larger dogs since the puppies have lots of energy to burn off, but as a general rule, until your dog is fully grown you should exercise them for five minutes per day for each month of their life. If your dog is six months old, then, they need just half an hour of exercise a day. If they are still growing at one year, they will need just 60 minutes, rather than the 90 minutes they will want when they are a full-grown dog. You can read more about the right way to exercise Labrador puppies here. FAQs Do dogs double in size from six months? No, at six months old most small dogs will be almost fully grown. Larger dogs, on the other hand, are likely to be about two-thirds of their adult weight at six months. Only very large breeds such as Rottweilers and Great Danes are likely to still be half their adult size at six months. Do the back legs of puppies grow faster? It is true that not every part of your dog will grow at the same pace, and it is not unusual for them to be a bit disproportional while they are growing. Puppies often have legs that are too long for their body. It can happen that their hind legs grow faster than their front legs, but this is not an overly common phenomenon. Do dogs have growth spurts? Rather, they have short rapid growth spurts that make it seem like they grew an inch overnight. They also tend to put on a bit of weight and then lean out as their body goes through its quick growth stage. Their appetite will also increase before a big growth period. If you are worried that your puppy is not growing at a normal rate, you should speak to your vet to see if there really is something wrong. Slower growth could be normal for them. If you want to give your dog the best chance to reach their full size, focus on good nutrition. The Verdict As your adorable puppy seems to just keep getting bigger each day, it is normal to ask yourself when exactly they will stop growing. How long it takes dogs to reach their full size depends significantly on their breed, so there is no single rule for all dogs. As a general guideline, vets will tell you that small dogs grow quickly and will reach their full size between six months and one year. Larger dogs grow more slowly and can take up to two years to fully grow, but there are many exceptions to the rule. It is best to research your breed and see what is normal for them. If you have a mixed breed, their age will sit somewhere between the ages of their two parent breeds. In terms of skeletal growth, paws are generally the thing that the rest of the body is catching up with, though they might still fill out. Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Related Article. Labrador Retriever Puppy Growth Chart and Development with Pictures Large breed dogs, like Labs, gain weight and grow rather rapidly in their first year. They also develop certain skills at approximately the same time. Lab puppies at this age are entirely dependent on their mother. They are born without teeth, vision, or hearing. The mother Lab will also stimulate them to eliminate and eat their waste to keep her nesting area clean. Most Lab puppies will have their eyes opened at 2 weeks of age, and their ears will begin to open around this time too. This period can be called the awakening of senses, as they are growing to be more conscious and inquisitive. Try to spend some time with each puppy daily, so they get used to being handled. They should not be removed from their litter for more than 10 minutes at a time as this could cause them to miss out on important life lessons. Mama dogs will teach her pups some discipline and dogs that are taken from their mom before this age often suffers from behavioral issues. You should handle them often and can begin basic training. Treat your puppy gently, with no harsh discipline. Your 8-week-old Lab puppy will be able to start sleeping through the night and have better control over its bowel movements. Potty training can be introduced at this age, but you should avoid bringing them to crowded places. Most puppies get their first vaccination before heading to their new homes. You should keep your new puppy away from other dogs until they complete their vaccinations to prevent them from contracting infectious diseases like distemper or parvovirus. Lab puppies eating their dog food At 2 months, Lab puppies should be fed 4 small meals a day. Knowing how much to feed them is key. Your Lab puppy will begin to test you in order to figure out what their position is in the family. Labrador Retriever puppies at 3 months might ignore commands they are familiar with. Some dogs might start nipping. To combat this, direct them to chew appropriate toys instead. Be patient with them and keep reinforcing positive behavior because they will grow out of it soon enough. They are still establishing their role in the pack and might assert their dominance over little children or pets. You can start incorporating other activities like obedience or agility to divert their attention and help them understand their role in the family better. Some dogs will go through another fearful stage at this age. You can help them through it by desensitizing them and being kind and understanding. They are still puppies at this age, after all. They should not be forced to face their fears in hopes they will get used to it. Appropriate exposure with lots of praise, attention, and treats will do the trick. They will have grown into the dog they are meant to be and will have a consistent personality. They should also have settled into a routine and know their place in the family. Following a UK study, Labs grow into their adult weight by their 1-year-old birthday. Mentally, Labradors will stay a puppy till they are 2 or 3 years old, but some never really do grow up. When Do Labs Stop Growing? Lab puppies generally gain 2 lbs 1 kg a week from birth until they are 6 months old. After that, their weight gain tapers off slowly. Most people think that dogs mature at the same age, but small dogs like a Terrier or a Pomeranian might reach adulthood at 9 months of age whereas a Great Dane might fully mature at 3 years of age. It has been noted that they reach their full height at 1 year of age, and their adult weight at 2 years of age. How to weigh a Labrador dog? Weighing your dog is a good way to keep track of its growth. A less strenuous and stressful way to weigh your dog would be to buy a weighing scale for dogs and weigh them regularly. You can incorporate this into your dog training and reward them every time they stay still on a scale. There are reasonably priced pet scales on Amazon but if you do not have a budget for a dog weighing machine, you can get your dog weighed at the vet. This is because muscle weighs more than fat. A chubby-looking Labrador might have the same weight as a lean and strong Lab. Testing Physical Appearance There is a system called BCS or Body Condition Scoring that allows owners and health providers to assess whether their dog is at a healthy weight from a glance. There are 9 levels, with the 1st level representing extreme emaciation, level 5 being optimally fit, and level 9 being life-threateningly obese. However, if they are outside of that spectrum, you might want to consider seeing a specialist as your dog might have some underlying health issues. It can also cause lots of health problems such as joint problems, respiratory or heart diseases, and even cancer. The bad news is that Labradors are prone to obesity due to their genetics. A large portion of the Labrador population has a malfunctioning POMC gene that stops them from being full. Even without the condition, Labs are notoriously greedy! Look at Midnight eating in her dreams: Hyperthyroidism and Insulinoma are disorders that can cause unexplainable weight gain. How to help your Labrador achieve a healthy weight? If they are suffering from certain disorders, you will need to treat them first. If they are simply being fed too much, remove any excess calories from their diet by cutting down treats including table scraps! You can also encourage them to move more through exercise, play, or work. Being too thin is also unhealthy, especially if your puppy is still growing. Weight loss or not being able to gain weight can be caused by worms, illness, or a lack of calories. Active dogs will need to be fed more than those that lead sedentary lifestyles. What you can do is increase their intake and monitor their growth rate. Another commonly asked question is when to fix their male or female Labradors. The general consensus is that you should fix your dog around 6 months, but there are new studies to suggest that early neutering might create more problems for your dog. Another specialized study suggests pet owners to neuter or spay after 37 weeks. This prevents excessive growth that can aggravate hip or joint problems. Will my Lab still grow after being neutered? Depending on when your dog is neutered. If it is neutered after sexual maturity, it will most likely have already reached its adult size and will not grow any taller. However, most neutered pets gain weight much more easily due to a decrease in sex hormones. This will cause their metabolic rate to slow down so you should adjust their diet accordingly. Differences between variations of Labrador Retrievers English Labs are show dogs that are bred to be more heavyset. Therefore, they can be slightly on the heavy side. As for American or working dogs, they are generally more athletic and lighter. Gender also plays a role in their weight, with females nearing the lighter end of the spectrum and males being on the heavier side. Chocolate Labs and White Labs are usually bred for the show ring. It is entirely possible to have an English Fox Red and vice versa for all other colors. Leading a healthy lifestyle will keep your pup healthy. Further reading: Additional puppy growth chart guides. When do labs Stop Growing? Labs need to fill out more than smaller breeds as they are medium to large-sized dogs. Usually, an average Lab will be at full height and weight by their first birthday. Is Your Labrador Retriever Healthy? Labrador Retrievers are the perfect family pet. Not only are Labs wonderful companions, but their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and love for life make them ideal members of any household. The best way to guarantee that happiness? Preventative care! This condition can cause pain and make it difficult for your pup to move freely. Due to CHD, they may also develop arthritis in the hip area as they age. Some dogs with CHD have normal hips as puppies, but they can develop joint instability later in life. Unfortunately, CHD affects medium to large dog breeds, with the Lab amongst those dogs with a higher chance of developing this condition. Recognizing the early signs of this progressive disease will help you get treatment for your dog so he has an active life filled with joy instead of pain or discomfort. An old Labrador Retriever is especially prone to developing this disease. Osteoarthritis, or Degenerative Joint Disease DJD , is a progressive inflammation of the joints caused by deterioration and breakdown in cartilage. This action leads to an increase in friction, which causes significant pain for dogs. In cases of osteoarthritis, this cartilage cushion begins to break down because of factors such as age or injury. If a dog has canine atopic dermatitis, the immune system reacts too strongly to common environmental allergens absorbed through the skin, such as mold spores and grass. A dog with atopic dermatitis will typically show signs and symptoms between 3 months to 6 years of age. Labrador Retrievers are amongst the most common dog breeds to develop food and skin allergies. Gastric Distention and Volvulus Bloat Canine bloat , or gastric distention and volvulus GDV , is a condition where the stomach swells abnormally. Bloat is a serious condition that requires immediate emergency care. Dogs of all shapes and sizes can bloat, but some breeds are more susceptible than others. Unfortunately, Labradors are at the top of the list for susceptibility to this condition. The causes of bloat in Labs and other dogs are unknown, but there is likely a genetic element. Dogs who recover from bloating should never be used as breeding stock again. Got a Lab? Get Pet Insurance Coverage You love your dog like a child, but you cannot control what your puppy is dealt with in the genetics department. Health struggles can affect your Labrador Retriever, and his genes will determine what medical conditions or diseases he develops. What if cancer happens? What else might go wrong with your dog in an emergency that will require immediate attention? As a dog owner, you want to make sure that your Lab pup has the best chance possible at living a healthy and happy life. A pet insurance policy will handle any medical issue or expense which may come your way, which is a significant help, especially with how expensive veterinary bills can get. Get insurance quotes today and see for yourself how much better life will be with this coverage. They are almost square in appearance, with a strong body and sturdy legs. The maximum height for a male is 24 inches, which puts them in the medium-size dog category, but their sturdy build can make them seem much larger. Weights range from 85 pounds for a large male to 55 pounds for a smaller female. Field line bred dogs are often taller and somewhat thinner in build. Labrador retrievers are easily recognized by their broad head, drop ears and large, expressive eyes. Two trademarks of the Lab are the thick but fairly short double coat, which is very water repellent, and the well known "otter tail. The feet are described as "webbed," with longer skin between the toes to aid in swimming. The Labrador retriever is a moderately fast maturing breed, reaching adult height from six to 12 months, but possibly still filling out up to 2 years of age. Many Labs reach 12 to 14 years of age. Personality: In general, Labrador retrievers are excellent family dogs, as long as you keep in mind their need for exercise and training. These are dogs bred to work and work hard and they love to have jobs to do, particularly retrieving. Labs are usually good with other dogs, other pets, and children as long as training has toned down their natural exuberance. They are strong dogs and need some obedience training at an early age or they can be seen dragging their owners down the street at will. Owing to their energetic nature, Labradors who are left alone or not well exercised can become destructive — chewing, digging and barking to excess. The field line dogs are especially high-energy dogs, while some of the show line dogs become perfect couch potatoes at an early age. Chewing can be a problem because the strong retrieve urge gives them an oral fixation. Sturdy chew toys, exercise and training all help with this. Living With: Obviously, Labradors have a number of endearing traits or they would not be so popular. They are intelligent and fairly easy to train, partly from their desire to work with people. They are "easy keepers" and can become overweight if they are not exercised and food portions adjusted as needed. Labs are excellent family dogs because they do want to be with people and many do not do well as kennel dogs. Labradors do tend to be protective of their families and homes but are usually happy to greet company, too. With the strong retrieving instinct, they can develop into destructive chewers if not given appropriate toys and guidance. Labs may tend to "mouth" people and the solution is often simply to give them a toy to carry around, so their mouths are already full! These are very strong dogs and early training is necessary to have a dog that walks nicely on lead. The wonderful double coat that keeps the Labrador warm while retrieving in icy water also gives this breed top billing as shedders. Normally, their coats do fine with a quick weekly grooming, but at shedding time daily grooming is needed. The amount of exercise they need varies with the different lines: field line dogs can run all day, whereas show line dogs only need moderate exercise. History: Early in the s, some of the multipurpose dogs used in North America mostly Canada by hunters were shipped back to England. Many of these "water dogs" were of the Newfoundland type, but the smaller ones were often designated "St John's" dogs. In England, the breed was developed and refined probably with some flat-coated retriever input into the breed we recognize today. As is evidenced by their name, Labrador retrievers were bred and selected for their outstanding retrieving abilities, particularly in water. They have worked as partners with duck hunters in all kinds of weather and conditions. Their intelligence and desire to work as a partner with man has led to many other jobs, and to their current status as popular pets. Today, Labradors excel as service and guide dogs, family pets, scenting dogs for the military, customs and arson task force dogs, search and rescue dogs as well as hunting companions and performance dogs. The breed's good nature has propelled it to the number one ranking in popularity in America, a position it intends to keep. Despite their fame as indoor pets, they are even more at home outdoors. It should always be remembered that Labradors are water retrievers at heart and from early on, puppies show a strong desire to carry things around with them and a strong attraction to water, even puddles! Related Pet Care Articles. Between 8 weeks and 10 months, your puppy has a ton of growing to do, and they change drastically from month to month. Each stage of growth requires specific attention, exercise, and diet, so there is much to learn and pay attention to these different growth stages. There may be behavioral challenges while your pup adjusts to their new life without their mother and siblings. This period of adjustment can sometimes lead to fearful and timid behavior, and your puppy will need as much attention and affection as possible. They should be eating 3—4 small meals a day at this stage. You can begin basic command, leash, and potty training at this point too. Although the schedule is not complete this is a critical period to begin socialization and making sure they are calm and friendly with other dogs, just make sure they are also vaccinated. We highly recommend making training a part of their daily activities at this age. Biting can be an issue at this stage too, as they will begin teething, and they will start exploring and chewing whatever they can find. Chew toys and consistent command reinforcement are both vital for avoiding this behavior. The good news is that your puppy will grow out of this habit at around 6 months old. Your lab should also be house-trained by this point, but there may still be the occasional accident. Remember to be gentle but firm when this happens, and your pooch will likely move through it swiftly. They will begin losing their baby teeth at this point, and biting and chewing may reach its peak. Firm but gentle commands, chew toys, and loads of patience are essential at this stage. Your puppy will be testing the limits and may start showing dominance, ignoring known commands, and asserting more independence. You can now drop their meals down to two meals per day, but be sure that they are not eating too quickly. Your puppy will start to closely resemble an adult at 6 months, but remember that mentally, they are still puppies and will need loads of direction and training. Females may enter their first heat at 6—7 months, so keep a careful watch for stray males. They will still display puppy tendencies and traits and have a ton of excitable energy, but they should be fairly obedient and well-trained by this stage. Be sure to give your Labrador plenty of exercise at this stage to help keep them from misbehavior. They will have reached their full height by now but may still gain weight and muscle mass in the coming months. Unless you intend on breeding, you should consider neutering and spaying your puppy to avoid wandering and unwanted pregnancies. While some breeders recommend that you wait until a year old, this is a perfectly suitable time to perform the procedure. They may still gain weight and muscle mass but much slower than during the past few months. They will still display puppy characteristics and even test boundaries, but all in all, they should be obedient and well-trained by now. They will have a ton of energy and still enjoy playtimes and loads of exercise. While they are at their full height at this age, some Labs may appear lanky and still have weight to fill out in the coming months. When Do Labradors Stop Growing? All dogs are unique, and the question of when they stop growing is largely dependent on the individual. Anecdotally, your Lab should have reached their full weight by 18 months and full height by 9—12 months. Most breeders agree that your Lab will stop growing at some point during their second year. Even so, any weight gain during their second year will be minimal, and they will have done the majority of their growth by their first birthday. Mentally, they are out of the puppyhood phase of testing boundaries and disobedience by their first year— if correctly trained. If you have been consistent in training thus far, your Lab should be friendly, obedient, and well-behaved from their first birthday and into adulthood. In males, neutering can sometimes result in a calmer, more relaxed dog, and this, in turn, will slow down his need for exercise and may result in weight gain. A study in showed that dogs neutered before 37 weeks may gain more weight, while dogs that had the procedure after 37 weeks had a slower growth trajectory. The difference was minimal, though, and there is no reason to assume that these procedures have much of an effect on growth rates in dogs. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth While some puppies may grow quicker or slower than the agreed-upon average, this is usually nothing to be concerned about due to the individual and unique nature of dogs. However, if your pooch is gaining weight rapidly or not gaining enough, there may be deeper issues to look into. If your dog is from working or hunting stock, they may be smaller than average Labs and are usually lighter for work in the field. Size may also be genetic, and if your Lab comes from small parents, they will be smaller than average. The same may be true of heavier-than-average Labs—if their parents are large, they will likely be similar in size. However, larger-than-average weights may also be due to overfeeding or a lack of exercise , or a combination of both, so be sure to keep their exercise and feeding habits consistent. Image Credit: rebeccaashworth, Shutterstock Growth Distinctions of Different Labradors Although they are designated under the same breed, there are two different types of common Labradors: English and American. English Labradors tend to be stockier and more muscular than their American counterparts and have a thick, waterproof coat , while American Labs have a slender build with a slightly finer coat. English Labs are slightly shorter, topping out at around 22 inches, but their stocky and muscular build often makes them heavier than American Labs. In fact, English Labs have been known to weigh up to 20 pounds more than American Labs without being considered overweight. American Labs are known to be slightly more active and energetic than English Labs, while English Labs tend to be less excitable and more laid back. English Labs are by no means lazy, though, and they still have plenty of energy and stamina to go around. Conclusion: Monthly Labrador Growth Pictures Hopefully, this guide has helped you understand the growth rate of your Labrador puppy and given you a better idea of what to expect during the different stages. See also:. Can you tell how big a puppy will get? Your puppy will be growing very fast when you first bring them home. But that growth rate slows down quite quickly. So when do dogs stop growing for good? And how will you know when your puppy has reached their adult size? Labrador Puppy Growth Chart We have a fascinating and long running thread on our forum, where members enter the weights of their puppies at different ages. The Labrador growth chart below shows the data we have collected, in a Labrador weight chart by age. Labrador dog weight chart by age and breed Each dot represents a snapshot in time of an individual puppy. You can find his or her age in weeks along the bottom of the chart and his weight in pounds up the left hand side. You can see how all the dots taken together follow a pattern, but there is still a considerable range of puppy weights at each age. When Do Dogs Stop Growing? But what about a two year old Lab, or a one year old? Well, in broad terms, dogs stop growing sometime between one and two years old. But it varies between breeds. Most dogs are fully grown by their first birthday. In general small breeds reach their adult height several months before large breeds do. Yet dog size varies greatly among individuals, even within the same breed. Larger dogs are often slower to mature than little dogs, and carry on growing for longer. Small dogs are sometimes fully grown by the time they are 9 months old. Whereas giant breeds can take up to three years to reach full size. Adult size, temperament, and coat type are all likely to affect energy requirements, and affect the rate a puppy grows. In fact even breeds which end up similar in size can grow at very different rates. There is very little scientific research — but a lot of anecdotal evidence — about when Lab puppies stop growing. In , a UK study following 37 Lab puppies through to adulthood revealed that all of them had reached their adult weight by their first birthday. But more recently, a much larger lifestyle study of over 4, UK Labradors found that their weight continued to increase between one and four years old. When Do Labs Stop Growing? The Labrador puppy growth chart finishes when the dog reaches adulthood. General wisdom from breeders, vets, and experiences Labrador owners is that Labs stop growing during their second year. In fact, he will be quite close to his final adult Labrador height at around nine months of age. Does color change the Labrador puppy growth chart? When is a chocolate Lab full grown? Is it the same time that a full grown black Labrador or yellow Lab? So your average chocolate Lab will be adult sizes at the same time as the average yellow or black Lab. How Quickly Do Labradors Grow? Our Labrador puppy growth chart shows that all Labrador puppies follow the same breed specific pattern of growth spurts and slower growth, even though the actual numbers on the scale will vary from individual to individual. The most rapid period of growth will take place in the first month or so after you bring him home. In , a study of Labrador puppies in Norway found that Labrador weight gain is most rapid at 89 days old in females, and 95 days old in males. So around the week mark. And Labradors usually reach half of their adult weight by the time they are 18 or 19 weeks old. How much do Labs grow after 6 months? Another trend you can see in our Labrador puppy growth chart is that Lab puppies gain weight much less rapidly after their 6 month birthday. Once your Lab has hit this milestone you can expect them to gain a little height, and probably continue to fill out for up to a year or so. In other words, the point when you Lab stops getting any taller. It is estimated that in the UK the average height at the shoulders of a male Lab is cm taller than the breed standard. Will my dog still grow after being neutered? Whether or not dogs should be routinely spayed or neutered is a subject which divides opinion. Labrador owners deciding whether and when to neuter usually end up with a lot of questions, few of which have straightforward answers. Many veterinary care providers and shelters advocate neutering at a young age, or even make it a requirement of the adoption contract. A study found that neutering before 37 weeks old is linked to very slightly more rapid growth, and neutering after 37 weeks leads to very slightly slower growth. How big do Labrador Retrievers get? As we all know, very few dogs fit the mathematical average — they are much more likely to occupy a range of normal sizes. But most of us like a more precise answer than that before we commit to sharing our home with a puppy. So, how big do Labs get? Labradors are remarkably variable in height and weight. The biggest male Labs can be almost twice the size of the smallest female ones. But you want me to give you some numbers, so here are some averages. Many adult female Labradors reach a weight of lbs and stand inches high at the shoulder. This will be the same whether they are a female chocolate Lab or a female black Labrador. Many adult male Labradors reach a weight of lbs and stand inches at the shoulder. But remember, your dog is probably not an average dog! Can you always predict size with a Labrador puppy growth chart? These Labrador height and weight numbers are very broad guidelines, and they may give you a rough idea of how big a pup will grow. How big your Labrador will get depends partly on his parents. Assuming that your puppy had healthy not overweight parents, their own weights will give you an idea of how big your Lab is likely to grow. But there are always surprises in any group or family of dogs! Has your puppy stalled on the Labrador puppy growth chart? It is possible that your puppy will weigh less than the average examples. Labrador puppy weight and size can vary widely depending on a number of different factors, many of which are normal and harmless. American Labrador puppy growth Labrador puppies from working stock are often less heavy than those bred for the show ring or pet homes. Dogs bred for hunting and field trials tend to be faster and lighter in build because they are expected to be agile and quick when working in the field. Small parents Size is also partly genetic. In other words, if your puppy had small parents he might well be on the small size for his age, throughout his life. Again, this is only a general guide. Even puppies from the same litter can vary quite considerably in size when plotted on a Labrador puppy growth chart. How much should my Labrador puppy weigh? But this kind of rule of thumb is of limited use, and there are problems with judging whether or not a puppy is thriving by his weight alone. Because it is so difficult to know exactly what size your puppy will be as an adult, no-one can really say what he should weigh today, or any other day. It may however give you an indication if your puppy is seriously under or overweight. It is rare for puppies to have any kind of growth disorder. Or for their families to starve them by mistake! But it is also normal to worry a little if your puppy seems on the small side. Is my puppy is too fat or too thin? The very best guide to whether a puppy is the right weight for him, is how he looks and feels. Not where he falls on an average Labrador puppy growth chart. Physically examining and observing your puppy will help you decide if they are doing ok in this respect. Just like older Labradors, puppies should not be too heavy. Most experts nowadays like to see a waist on even quite young puppies. Does it matter if my puppy is a bit plump? We all used to think that puppy fat was a good thing. When I was a child fat puppies were the norm. Perhaps this extra layer of fat was helpful in sustaining the puppy during illness before vaccinations were widely available for dogs? Nowadays, the thinking is that puppies should be slim. With a defined waist, just like an older dog. It causes their bones to grow too rapidly as well. And this may result in painful skeletal abnormalities in later life. Chubby Lab puppies might be plotted higher than average on the Labrador puppy growth chart, but if they are a shorter stature they could be following the line. You need to assess your pup by how they look and feel. Weighing your puppy If your puppy has been ill and is very thin, or if he has become rather overweight , you might consider weighing him in order to monitor his progress on a Labrador puppy growth chart of your own. If you can see his ribs, or feel them very easily just beneath his skin, your Labrador puppy is too thin. If in doubt, check with your veterinarian. You can show them your Labrador puppy growth chart too, so they have a good idea of how they are progressing. My dog weighs 35lbs at six months old. Is that OK? I mentioned above that an average Labrador might weigh around 50lbs at six months old. But there is huge variation around this figure. To illustrate how much very healthy puppies may vary, there are 6 month old Labs on our forum weighing 30lbs, and others weighing 60lbs! These are very different points on the same Labrador puppy growth chart, but could both be healthy animals. And the truth is, no-one can tell you exactly what your six month old pup should weigh, or indeed your Labrador of any age. What age does a puppy turn into a dog? When does a puppy no longer belong on a Labrador puppy growth chart but instead have reached their adult size? And when will your puppy be a fully grown up dog? There are three aspects to changing from puppy to dog: physical maturity and mental maturity. Sexual maturity in puppies People are often surprised to discover that puppies become sexually mature before they are full grown. These sexually mature pups still belong on the Labrador puppy growth chart, and will gain weight and height. Most Labradors are physically capable of breeding while still puppies. Though of course they should not be allowed to do so. Many female Labradors come into season for the first time between at between six and nine months old. Though some will be over a year old. And most male Labradors are ready and willing to mate well before their first birthday! Mental maturity in puppies Not only is your Labrador physically still a puppy when he or she reaches sexual maturity. He is also very much a puppy mentally and emotionally. In fact, many experts do not consider a Labrador to be fully grown up and mature until they are around two years old. In practice, there is no exact age at which you can definitely say your puppy is a grown up. Some puppies mature mentally and physically quicker than others. As a broad guide, you will often hear people use 18 months as the divide between Labrador puppy and adult dog. When do dogs stop growing? Most Labradors will have completed much of their growth by their first birthday and will stop growing completely before their second. Beyond this point there is no need to plot their weight on a Labrador puppy growth chart, but instead they should just be monitored physically. Weights vary greatly among individuals of this breed and puppy weight unless very extreme, is not a great guide to health. Enjoy your puppy for what he is, large Labrador or small. Just remember to check with your vet if you think he is unwell or not growing as he should. Is your Labrador puppy still growing? Do you think the runt of the litter is going to surprise you by reaching the upper end of the scale? Were your predictions at X months completely confounded? Share your anecdotes in the comments box down below! Save to Pinterest The Stages of Puppy Growth and Development Month by Month The following are the stages of puppy growth and development, starting at birth and ending when your dog reaches adulthood. The Neonatal Stage 0 to 2 weeks This is the newborn puppy growth stage that lasts until two weeks of age. At this developmental stage, puppies are blind and deaf. Expect puppies at this point to sleep almost constantly and their mother will take care of everything, keeping them warm, feeding them, and keeping them clean. The Transitional Stage 2 to 4 weeks At this puppy growth stage , they will start to open up their eyes and respond to sounds, light, and movement around them. You will also notice a puppy at this point starting to get more mobile, although they will still tend to crawl instead of walking. They do, however, have enough strength to stand up, but will stumble a lot. A puppy in this developmental stage will just be starting to recognize their siblings and mother. Lab puppies open their eyes at about two weeks old. By this time, Labrador puppies will have their eyes fully open and most will be at least partly open. Ears open at this point too and your puppy will begin to hear. Period of Awakening of Senses 3 to 4 weeks At this period , a puppy develops various senses rapidly. They start to get fully alert and aware of their environment and may recognize you and other humans that are frequently around. The Socialization Period 4 to 7 Weeks Once a puppy is around four weeks old, they start to learn the most important things in life-related to social development. They will learn to not bite all the time and how to interact with their siblings. Interactions with humans are especially important between five and seven weeks. This is also the time they will start to understand discipline thanks to their mother. She will start weaning her puppies and teaching them manners, like acknowledging she is in charge. As the owner, you can start introducing food to your puppy when they are around four weeks old. Start small and begin to give them more food as the mother continues to wean them. You should also continue handling the puppy every day. However, be sure not to separate them from their siblings or mother for over ten minutes each day, since this can lead to issues with training and socialization. Dogs who are separated too soon may also be nervous and more likely to bark and bite. During this period, let the mother dog take care of discipline; you should not correct the dog for mouthing or housebreaking mistakes until later in life. To help ease them through this process, avoid traumatic events, loud voices, or harsh discipline. You should also make sure your pooch has plenty of human contact during this stage. If you want, you can start leash training and even teach simple commands such as sit, down, stay and come. In terms of development, you will notice that your puppy can sleep through the whole night and starts to develop better control of its bowels and bladder. Most vets suggest that new outings should wait until they are fully vaccinated. We rub the Calmeroos Puppy Toy on littermates and mom to get their scent. When we get home the Calmeroos Puppy Toy helps our puppy feel comfortable and adjust more quickly to his new environment. Many puppies will go to their new homes at around 8 weeks old. We recently put together a blog post on our sister site detailing what you can expect from an 8-week-old puppy. The Juvenile Stage 3 to 4 Months At this point in development, a puppy can be compared to a juvenile. They will be more independent and may ignore the basic commands that they know very well. If this happens, firmly and gently reinforce the commands and other training. You may also notice your pup starting to test your authority by play biting or similar actions. You can also redirect your dog to a toy that they can bite. Either can end up teaching your pooch that it is okay to fight with you and challenge your authority. The Ranking Period 3 to 6 Months When your puppy is between four and six months old, you should expect them to be somewhat bratty, showing more willfulness and independence. They are more likely to test your limits and may try to show dominance over children or other family members. If they fail to listen to you or come when called, it can be dangerous as it puts them at risk of injury when in public. It can also hurt future responses to you, making them less likely to listen. This is also when your dog will be teething, so give them toys like frozen dog Kong toys to relieve pressure and pain. Chewing behaviors will also start growing at this point so look for some safe chew toys to keep your dog entertained. This is when hormonal changes start to occur and is the ideal time to spay or neuter your pup. UC Davis published a study comparing the long-term health effects of neutering in Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. Adolescence 6 to 18 Months After six months, your pup is already in the final stage of puppy development but is still young. This is a fun and exciting time for your pooch since they will be learning, full of energy, and exuberant. During this time, it is important to remember that even if your puppy now looks like a grown-up dog, they are still a puppy, at least in its mental capacity and emotional maturity. Work to slowly increase training and other activities. You can even work on advanced training such as agility or herding. Another option is to simply keep training them to ensure they interact in a non-aggressive and non-threatening way with other animals. It is also possible that your dog will go through another fearful period of time at some point after they reach six months. You can speed up the process with counter-conditioning and desensitization. It fits very well and is quite apt! Final Thoughts With the knowledge of how and when your new puppy will develop, you are better able to meet their needs. Provide socialization at the appropriate times and be sure to give your puppy plenty of social interactions with their siblings as well as humans and any other pets in your home. Your dog should reach maturity at some point between one and two years old with plenty of variation based on breed, Labradors are considered mature at between 2 and 2. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.

Mini Labradoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Comparison Two dog breeds, one purpose: to make your life a joy-filled journey powered by strong bonds, friendship, and unconditional love. Meet the Mini Labradoodle and the Mini Sheepadoodle. Two very adorable and friendly dogs with upbeat personalities, the Mini Labradoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle make the perfect addition to any lucky family. Your way of life, hobbies, and work schedule are all important factors that can help determine which of the two dog breeds is a good fit for your lifestyle.Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? They are fun, easygoing, and gentle. Mini Labradoodles enjoy canine games like chase, fetch, and Frisbee, and thrive on cuddles and love. Energetic, friendly, and full of life, the Mini Labradoodles make wonderful jogging and hiking companions. They are known to enjoy a good swim, a long stroll, and are very fond of adventures. The Mini Labradoodle puppies are happy, energetic, and bright bundles of joy. They are loving and eager to please, love to play and cuddle, and are excellent training students. A cross between Labrador Retrievers and Mini or Toy Poodles, the Mini Labradoodle may take after one parent breed or the other in appearance or they may have their own unique look with an added bonus of a hypoallergenic coat. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Erie Pennsylvania 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.

Veterinary reviewed by Dr. Linda Simon. This post may contain affiliate links. Read more here. If you notice your furry friend has become congested recently, you may wonder what is going on. Snoring, grunting, sneezing, and snorting are all noises that are cause for concern if heard frequently enough. Reasons a dog sounds congested will vary and are largely dependent on age, breed and whether or not a dog has any underlying medical issues. Most of the time, the cause is benign and the issue can be easily dealt with. For a small number of pooches, there may be something more serious going on. Congestion in a dog can indicate an anatomical fault, obesity, allergies, foreign objects, respiratory infections, or even tumors. Temporary issues include poor air quality or an odd sleeping position. Some breeds are no stranger to noisy breathing. For others, however, sounding congested may be new territory. There is a wide range of potential causes for dog congestion and snorting. These include: Anatomy. Those carrying extra pounds are putting additional pressure on their heart and lungs which can affect their breathing quality. As a dog gets older, the cartilage in their airways weakens and they can begin to breathe more loudly than before. Similar to hayfever in humans, some dogs experience Allergic Rhinitis. This can cause sneezing as well as nasal discharge and congested breathing. A foreign body in the nasal passage. If a dog sniffs up a grass seed or awn this is likely to give them trouble when it comes to their breathing. Sometimes, an abscess develops and there is significant swelling. Signs typically start abruptly and can be severe. Respiratory infections. Bacterial, parasitic, fungal, or viral can all create congested breathing. This is due to the inflammation as well as the production of excess snot and fluid. If your dog has had an anesthetic or sedation you may well notice their breathing sounds heavier for the next day or so. This is a combination of their relaxed muscles narrowing their airway and the fact that they will be very groggy. Anything that obstructs the natural airflow needs to be considered. Benign tumors like polyps and cancerous tumors would both need to be considered. Air quality. If the air around your dog is not well ventilated and is dusty or smoky, this can affect the way that they breathe. Laryngeal Paralysis. Dogs who develop laryngeal paralysis can have noisy breathing and a soft cough. It tends to be senior dogs that are affected. Sleeping position. Sometimes, your dog may be lying awkwardly, causing slight airway obstruction. This can mean they start to sound blocked up and congested. Photo by Stefano Carnevali on Shutterstock Oftentimes, owners notice breathing changes when their dog is asleep as they have the opportunity to watch them closely. It may be that these changes are always present but are harder to spot when a dog is moving about and active. So, those with certain lung and heart diseases tend to cough more and have more trouble breathing when lying down. An abrupt change in breathing habits would usually be accompanied by other signs. You may notice your dog is also breathing faster and is less able to exercise. If your dog normally has quiet breathing, a sudden change needs to be explored. A congenital issue such as BUAS is much less likely in this case. The vet will check for signs of respiratory infections and airway blockages. They will also consider the season, to determine if seasonal allergies are a possibility. Dog Breathing Sounds Like Snoring There are several causes of noisy breathing that sounds like a snore. If this is a new thing for your dog, an airway exam should be performed by a vet. This is because they suffer from a condition called Brachycephalic Upper Airway Syndrome. Some are more affected than others and it is important you discuss with your vet if your dog requires any intervention. Dog Gurgling Sound When Breathing Gurgling when breathing may mean that there is fluid present somewhere in the airway, which could point toward serious lung or heart disease. A gurgle is a specific sound that should never be ignored. If you think your dog gurgles when they breathe, have them assessed right away. What are the Signs of Respiratory Distress in a Dog? A dog in respiratory distress may hide, pace around, or stand with their arms wide apart and neck extended. With limited oxygen, the breathing will generally be fast, shallow, or noisy and gums may be grey or blue instead of a healthy pink. Every owner should make themselves familiar with the signs of respiratory distress. While some assume signs would be obvious, this is not always the case. When resting or asleep, anything higher than 30 breaths a minute is a red flag. An exception to this is a healthy pup who may breathe quickly for a short time while dreaming. A trip to the vet should always be the first port of call. Once we know what we are dealing with and the correct prescription medicine has been issued, we can consider how we can help our dogs at home: Let your dog in the bathroom whenever a family member has a hot bath or shower. This can help clear their airways and soften any mucus buildup. Encourage your dog to move about, as long as they are up for it. Lying still for too long can lead to mucus and fluid pooling. Anti-histamines and similar over-the-counter medicines may be appropriate for some patients, especially those with allergies. However, this should always be discussed with a vet first. Clear away any nasal discharge with a warm, wet cotton towel or grooming wipes. This can put them off their food which can affect their energy. It can help to offer warm and strong-smelling food such as sardines and moist chicken. Consider using a humidifier in your home if needed. Keep the air well ventilated. Make it easier for your dog by ensuring the air is free of dust, smoke, cooking fumes and air fresheners. Thankfully, this tends to be something Mother Nature takes care of for us. While some websites may advise using a nasal aspirator, few dogs will tolerate this according to practicing vets and my own experience. Rather, using a humidifier and steaming your dog in the bathroom should be enough to loosen up mucus and let the body deal with it naturally. When liquid is dripping out of the nostrils, you can clean it away with cotton wool. If your dog has fluid in or around their lungs this is a true medical emergency. This is not something that can be treated at home and these dogs need immediate vet care. Fluid build-up may need to be drained with a needle or using medicine called diuretics. Loud breathing in a dog is a symptom that merits our attention. It will likely bother your dog, affect their sleep and make it harder for them to exercise. There are a range of potential causes for congested and noisy breathing, meaning a vet visit is a necessity. Your dog will be examined thoroughly and may require — after natural remedies are ruled — medication and other interventions. Disclaimer: This blog post does not substitute veterinary attention and does not intend to do so. I am not a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. If your dog shows any sign of illness, call your vet. Post navigation. Yes — and no. Let us explain. Brachycephalic dogs, otherwise known as flat-faced breeds, have more difficulty breathing due to their shortened snouts. The French bulldog, Boston terrier, and pug are among the most well-known brachycephalic breeds, and 24 breeds total have brachycephalic conformation. These breathing issues are often pronounced with exercise and become more evident as your dog ages. While this type of congestion in dogs is considered normal for certain breeds, their physical features can lead to severe issues such as nasal stenosis and laryngeal collapse, both of which require surgery. Here are the most common causes: 1. See also Inactive Canine? You may be able to see the leaf, wood chip, piece of grass, or whatever your pup has managed to get up their nose protruding out of their nostril. In that case, gently remove it with tweezers. If you cannot see or are uncomfortable removing the obstruction, have a veterinarian examine your dog and remove the object. They may need to sedate your pup if the foreign body is far up its nostril and will provide the best follow-up treatment. Dogs and humans can share many of the same allergies, including allergies to several environmental substances. These include grass, pollen, dust mites, and more. Your pup may even be intolerant to cigarette smoke, certain types of medicine, or chemicals used in cleaning. Not only can congestion be a symptom of allergies in dogs, but they may also experience itchiness, runny eyes , inflamed skin, diarrhea, vomiting, and constant licking , among other symptoms. Respiratory Infections If your pup suddenly becomes congested, you are most likely dealing with a respiratory infection. A viral infection is the most likely cause of sudden congestion or sinusitis in your dog, and congestion is the result of inflammation and excess mucus. Several common respiratory infections and conditions develop in dogs, including kennel cough, pneumonia, dog flu, rhinitis, chronic bronchitis, and tracheal collapse. Schedule a vet appointment immediately if you suspect your dog has a respiratory infection. Many of these conditions must be treated as soon as possible to avoid serious health consequences. Age While age alone could be causing your furry friend to sound congested due to weakened cartilage in the airways , this is sadly not the only reason why this may occur. Heart disease is most common in older dogs, which may cause congestion and wheezing. Your older dog may find physical activity difficult as a result or is experiencing difficulty breathing due to lethargy. Sleeping Position Have you noticed that your dog only seems to sound congested when sleeping? Lying awkwardly can cause a slight obstruction in their airway, making them sound congested and increasing their likelihood of snoring. Air Quality The air quality in your home could be causing congestion in your pup and, unsurprisingly, yourself. This can result in fungal infection, with your dog sounding congested for even weeks or months at a time. Sedation Has your dog recently been sedated due to a medical procedure or surgery? Plus, your dog will be a little more sluggish than usual. Tumors Sadly, several types of tumors, both benign and cancerous, may cause congestion in dogs due to upper airway disease. These are primary tracheal tumors and will need to be removed to clear the obstruction in the airway. A humidifier can help reduce inflammation and release congestion, as can the steam from a hot shower. When using a humidifier, remember not to add any essential oils, as they may be toxic to animals. While it could result from something as minor as a doggy head cold, it could also be more serious. How useful was this post? Click on a star to rate it! Submit Rating Please give us feedback on this post: Let us improve this post! Tell us how we can improve this post? She is a strong healthcare services professional with a graduate degree from St. George's University. You can connect with her on LinkedIn. Post navigation. Patches of fur loss , often circle-shaped; Patches of red, irritated, and scaly skin. Parvovirus can also be also deadly when untreated, another condition associated with congestion in puppies and dogs. Kennel cough is another highly contagious disease that could affect puppies newly separated from their mother and siblings. How to Help a Congested Dog A trip to the vet is in order if your dog sounds congested when breathing. Early diagnosis means fast treatment, which in turn means a quicker recovery time and a higher chance of recovery success. Some medical complaints will not go away without treatment. This includes pneumonia, which is usually treated with antibiotics. Your pooch can only get those antibiotics if they have been prescribed them. More pressing cases could even require a night or two in the doggo hospital, for IV antibiotics and fluids. Allergies are often treated using antihistamines. Parvovirus, on the other hand, is much more serious, requiring quarantine and intensive medication courses. Heart disease will often require long-term medication, particularly in middle to older-aged dogs. By not going to the vet with your poor pooch, you are running the risk of letting a potentially deadly disease, such as Parvovirus, run rampant. Vacuuming regularly, using a filter vacuum, will keep dust, mites , and other allergens to a minimum. Check Your Products Have you recently changed the cleaning products you use? Or laundry detergent? How about home fragrances, perfumes and colognes, or even hairsprays? All these things can agitate sensitive doggos, causing congestion, particularly with pampered, mostly indoor breeds. Overweight dogs will experience a host of problems, including congestion and respiratory conditions. If your dog has outdoor-related allergies, however, this might not be the best idea. Emergency Fund Worried about the cost of vet care for your precious pooch? Why not let Petcube take away some of that stress? FAQ What can I give my dog for congestion? It is not recommended to give your dog any kind of over-the-counter medication that you — yourself — would take. When should I take a dog with chest congestion symptoms to the vet? Most benign causes behind congestion in dogs will clear up before that, so a longer bout of it would indicate an underlying problem. Are there high-risk congested dog breeds? Yes, certain breeds of dogs are prone to suffering from congestion more than others. Short-nosed or flat-nosed breeds, such as bulldogs and pugs, experience breathing problems more frequently than others. Was this article helpful? Finding out the exact cause will better aid the treatment so that you can get your pup feeling better quickly. Viral infection: Think of this as the common cold. A viral infection of the sinuses or nasal passages can cause swelling and inflammation that makes it hard for your pup to breathe. It may also bring on a runny nose and eyes, usually with clear discharge, coughing, sneezing, and lethargy. Most viral infections tend to be mild to moderate. Viral infections usually find their way to a dog by contact with other infected dogs. Bacterial infection: Bacteria also like to make their way into the nasal passages, sinuses, and chests of our canine companions. The trouble with bacteria is they tend to elicit an immune response that creates thick, colored discharge from the eye and nose, along with inflammation of the airways, making it even harder for a dog to breathe. Dogs may also run a fever, cough, sneeze, not eat, and be lethargic. Occasionally, chest congestion in dogs can be due to pneumonia, a serious infection of the lungs that requires immediate treatment so that a dog can breathe. Bacterial respiratory infections can be passed from dog to dog or by contact with bacteria on objects. Fungal infection: Depending on where you live, fungal infections that cause congestion in dogs can be a concern. Fungal spores from the environment can reproduce in the respiratory system and cause congestion in dogs. These infections tend to go on and on, and owners may not notice anything other than a cough and mild congestion that lasts for weeks or even months. Allergies: Some dogs respond to pollen, mold, dust, and smoke like humans do. Lots of sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, runny noses, and congestion can occur due to allergies. For some dogs, these signs are seasonal. For others, they may happen any time of the year. Foreign objects: Dogs love to explore their world with their noses, making it easy to inhale grass seeds, dirt, or anything small enough to make it through their nostrils. Some foreign objects can get lodged in the nasal passage or sinuses, causing inflammation and congestion. Infections may occur secondary to foreign objects as well. Depending on where the foreign object is, dogs may also sneeze, have a runny or bloody nose, or cough if the object is in their chest. Others: Less frequently congestion in dogs may be a result of a tumor or heart disease. Other signs will depend on the issue and where it is, but you may notice dogs not wanting to exercise, difficulty breathing, nasal discharge, coughing, bloody nose, or lethargy. Is it Nose or Chest Congestion? They may also snort, sniff, or whistle when trying to get air through their nasal passageways, similar to the way a Bulldog breathes normally. For Bulldog owners out there, of course, this is completely normal, which can make it a little difficult to determine when your short-nosed breed is congested. For chest congestion, there will almost always be coughing. The cough will usually be moist and phlegmy since they are trying to dislodge the mucous that is partially causing the congestion. Dogs may also wheeze when trying to breathe since chest congestion makes it difficult to get air into the lungs. If your dog is having some coughing, sneezing, and a runny nose with their congestion, but is otherwise eating well and moving around normally, try some of the following steps first. Use a humidifier. The moist air from a humidifier can help to decrease inflammation and congestion of the airways. Treat your dog to shower. Do not get your pup wet, but simply let them sit in the bathroom while a hot shower is running. The warm, moist air from your shower is for him. Bringing your dog into the bathroom with you while you shower can help to break up mild nasal and sinus congestion. Give him a little TLC. A cold is a cold, and we all know what that feels like. If your dog has more serious signs, such as difficulty breathing, a fever, not eating, or a persistent cough, get a vet appointment. More serious forms of congestion should be seen by a veterinarian. If your dog starts to show any signs of getting worse, such as stopping eating, running a fever, or having difficulty breathing, get the next available appointment. If you notice a lot of open-mouth breathing or belly breathing, see your veterinarian as soon as possible. Blood work and x-rays may also be done to check for pneumonia, heart issues, and tumors. Your vet may also collect samples of any nasal discharge or phlegm to culture for bacteria. For viral and bacterial infections, antibiotics are typically given to fight the infection or to prevent secondary infections. Fungal infections take a long course of antifungals. If caught early and treated properly, most infections, including pneumonia, can be treated with a very favorable outcome. Treating allergies can be a sticky situation. Of course, the best allergy treatment is removing the allergen. Sounds easy, except it can be very difficult to pinpoint the exact allergens that affect your dog and cause them congestion. Some congestion-causing allergies respond to antihistamines, others need different therapies. Allergy testing and allergy shots are available with variable results. Foreign objects will more than likely need to be removed, and then the damage that they cause will need to be treated. Removal will require sedation or even surgery, depending on where the problem lies. Your dog may then need anti-inflammatories and antibiotics as a follow-up. Disclaimer: This content is not a substitute for veterinary care. Always consult with your vet for health decisions. Learn more. Also, be ready to tell your vet about any other signs your dog may be showing, such as not eating, or lethargy, and if other dogs in your household are affected. If your dog coughs up or sneezes a lot of phlegm, you may want to grab a sample to show your vet just in case. FAQ Are certain breeds more likely to be affected by congestion than others? Brachycephalic breeds, such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers, are more likely to experience congestion since they are prone to breathing problems already. What if my dog sounds congested only when sleeping? Snoring or snorting while sleeping can be concerning and may be caused by different things. Some congestion during sleeping may be due to the position that your dog is sleeping in. Benadryl is safe to give to most healthy dogs. She has over 10 years of experience in small animal veterinary practice, working for a veterinary clinic in Idaho. How useful is this page? Help us improve. Click on a star to rate it: Submit Rating. Low energy or overall fatigue These symptoms are easy to spot most of the time, except for a fever. Use a special dog thermometer to determine if your puppy has a fever. Some thermometers are inserted into the ear canal, while others are inserted into the rectum once lubricated. The one below from Amazon is a best-seller in its category. Our tried-and-true thermometer will give you accurate results without keeping you waiting. This makes cleaning the thermometer after every use simple as ABC! Nonetheless, your puppy has likely picked up an infection if you notice more than three of the above symptoms. Take your puppy to your vet to get the infection treated as soon as possible. You can best help your congested puppy in different ways, depending on the cause of the congestion. If the Cause Is An Infection Only your vet can make the correct diagnosis and prescribe treatment if an infection is the culprit. Infections need treatment as soon as possible because they can lead to more serious health conditions, some of which are quite dangerous. If The Cause Is An Allergy Once you have eliminated the possibility of an infection with your vet, it might be that an allergy is the cause. Your vet will, therefore, recommend a prescription or even over-the-counter medication. Benadryl or Claritin are often used — but remember to check with your vet before buying any medication for your puppy. Your vet will help determine the correct dosage for your puppy according to its size. Look Around You Think about what your puppy could have sniffed up in the course of the day. If your child has left tiny pieces of toys or arts and crafts materials on the floor, your puppy may have decided to investigate. Look Inside Their Nose And Remove Debris If Possible To spot the debris, have your puppy face a light source and lift their head so that you can see down their nostrils. If, however, an object appears to be stuck, or if your puppy is experiencing any discomfort, take them to the vet. You may want to consider giving your dog a decongestant, but you should only do so under the close supervision and following approval from your vet. Most decongestants that you can buy over the counter are not safe for dogs because they contain ingredients that are toxic for them. If they sound congested or are breathing more heavily than they usually would, it can be alarming. There are many reasons your dog may experience congestion, most of which are nothing to worry about. They may have a cold or have changed into an odd sleeping position. Whatever the case may be, we will go over why your dog may sound congested and when to consult a vet. Typically, when your dog sounds congested when sleeping, nothing is wrong. However, it may be a sign of something more severe in some cases. If you notice signs of congestion in your dog, keep a close eye on it and note any changes. Common Reasons for Nighttime Congestion in Dogs Here are the most common reasons dogs are congested at night. Dogs are like humans in that the way they sleep affects their breathing. If it seems like your dog only makes strange sounds in their sleep while lying in an unusual position, you more than likely have no reason to be concerned. However, if the noises persist, no matter how they lie, there may be another cause. Allergies or a Cold Dogs are more like people than we think and can experience allergies or catch a cold. Our pups go through the same symptoms that an allergic reaction or illness gives us. Dogs that have colds will have a stuffy nose, causing some congestion. You may notice other symptoms in combination, such as sneezing or a runny nose. They may even have a fever. Learn how Wild Earth can help your dog live longer and visit the vet less. Take The Quiz Dental Issues Poor doggy dental health may cause various issues, including congested sounds. If your pup has an infection or a cavity, it can affect how they sound in their sleep. Their mouth is connected to their airway, so any irritation may transfer to their breathing. Medication Side Effects Have you given your dog a new medication recently? If so, check the side effects to see if they include congestion. Some medicines may also make dogs feel drowsier, causing them to have a deeper sleep, which may cause snoring sounds. Obesity Obese and overwei ght dogs can cause poor health, including their lungs. Ensure that your dog is within the recommended weight range for their breed. Offer treats sparingly, as the calories can quickly add up. You can also use healthier treats, such as baby carrots, that your pup is sure to love just as much. Dogs Breeds With Congested Breathing Some dog breeds are more prone to congested breathing than others due to their anatomy. If you have a dog breed such as a pug or French bulldog, this is normal for their species. Age Older dogs are more likely to snore or sound congested while they sleep. As they age, the nerves in their airways start to weaken. Although this is normal and is usually not a cause for concern, it could signify laryngeal paralysis. If you notice that the congestion or snoring disturbs your senior dog, talk to your veterinarian to rule out any illnesses. Secondhand Smoke We all know that if you smoke a cigarette near another person, it can affect their lungs. The inflammation the smoke causes to their airways can cause snoring or congestion. If you smoke, always do so outside, away from any people or pets. Although congestion is normal in dogs, there are some ways you can help them, especially if they have a cold. If their weight is the cause, ensure they are on a healthy diet with plenty of playtime and exercise. Take note of any medications you may have recently given them. Pay attention to the time of year your dog snores. If your dog snores more in the summer, they are likely to experience seasonal allergies. Try Home Remedies If your dog has other cold-like symptoms or you suspect seasonal allergies, here are some remedies to help them with congestion: Antihistamines can help dogs the same way they help people. Consult your vet to get the proper dosage. Use a humidifier at night; some extra humidity may help clear their airways. Get rid of any lingering bacteria by cleaning their bedding, bowls, toys, or anything else they use regularly Chicken soup helps dogs just as much as humans who are congested. Feed them lukewarm low-sodium broth, cooked veggies, and brown rice to help clear their sinuses. In some cases, it can be indicative of issues. More on Dog Knowledge:.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. I have always enjoyed an active lifestyle and grew up raising show livestock in the F. Future Farmers of America. Among my projects were roaster hens, hogs, even a steer, but my passion was always for my lambs. Raising and breeding Standards in many ways is how I have been able to continue my love of raising and showing livestock. What I learned back then taught me how important Genetics are for a strong foundation to begin with. Also, that an excellent feeding program is vital for my dogs to reach their full potential. Finally, I learned everything I know about grooming from my agriculture teacher. I am proud to say I personally groom all of my own dogs. July I suffered an injury to my spinal cord that left me paralyzed from my waist down. They found homes by way of my then mentor. This was a great relief for my family as the focus was now on my recovery. The number one reason was driven to not give up was my dogs. Life kept moving on and I came to realizations that I am still able to give them what they need to thrive and that my support system is there for helping me achieve each challenge that I face. I am proud to say that Extraordinary Poodles successfully Sired two litters in .The results were nothing short of expectations. I continue to groom all of my own dogs and keep in touch with families of past puppies. My happiness has always depended on having something good to do, and at Extraordinary Poodles there is plenty of that to go around. Current Litter sired by Sam looking for wonderful homes. Begin your journey into the world of standard poodles here. Standard Poodles! Standard poodles are the most versatile dog in the world. You will see different variations in these tones. They are good with children if socialized with them and are not inclined to bite, but they do make good alert dogs. In other words, "They give you time to get your gun. People with allergies have a high tolerance for the poodle, making them well known as the ideal breed for people with allergies. Visit our litter page to see available puppies. Training High energy combined with lots of smarts lends itself to excellent companionship when properly trained. How to Train? Start early, using treats as a lure. How to Care? Companionship, quality puppy food, socialization. How to treat? A healthy puppy needs a nutritionally complete puppy food, fresh water, companionship, love and regular vet checkups to stay on top of things How to feed? We recommend Purina pro plan puppy How to walk? Do not pull or drag your puppy. How to equip? A light leash and narrow collar Decided? Questions about Poodle puppies for sale in Houston TX? We have answers. Give me an overview of Poodle puppies for sale in Houston TX. Uptown makes sure that you can afford a Poodle by giving you the option of breeders, companies and businesses that can offer different prices to you according to the size, color and experience of the breeder. Do your breeders arrange travel for Houston Poodles out of state? Of course! Since the businesses, breeders and companies are highly professional in what they do, finding the perfect families for their pups is the number one goal they have in mind. Therefore, they are used to organizing travel arrangements for the puppies that they love - and that includes transport by plane. How do you screen miniature Poodle breeders in Houston? We are really strict with breeders, companies and businesses that want to be affiliated with us. There is a strict screening process that they have to pass, they have to take a Breeder Pledge and we have the absolute strictest of standards in place. We look at how professional the breeders are and how well they take care of the dogs and puppies. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other miniature Poodle breeders Houston? We are different because we care so much. All that matters to us is that puppies connected to us through breeders, companies and businesses end up in happy homes where they will be well looked after for life. What is a puppy mill like for miniature Poodle Houston? Most people see dogs as lovely companions and members of the family. But, not puppy mills. The owners of these places look into the eyes of dogs and just see dollar signs. They stick dogs in cages, wait for them to produce litter after litter, and take the puppies away from their mothers when they are too young, causing many health complications. Are there any miniature Poodle puppies Houston for sale now? You just need to tell us a little bit about yourself as well as what you are looking for in your perfect pup and, in no time, you will have your perfect pup by your side. There are many different varieties to choose from, so just think carefully about the Poodle type you want, and it will be yours. What kind of dogs are mini Poodle puppies Houston? Poodles actually come from Germany and France. It has water as well as herding roots, which makes it a wonderful hunter in the water. How do I know I can trust you with miniature Poodle puppies in Houston? We are well aware that there are people out there wanting to sell you sick puppies for high prices. We pride ourselves on making sure that good relationships are achieved with both our customers as well as our breeders, companies and businesses. All we care about is that healthy puppies, end up in happy homes - for life!

how to know golden retriever puppy - Aug 17, Share German Shepherds have working lines and show lines, totaling five different types. The breed has changed drastically throughout its ancestry in various countries. Max von Stephanitz was the creator of the German Shepherd, aiming for a perfect personality, workability, and stunning appearance. His goal was to create a masterpiece: the ideal working dog reigning supreme above the rest. We like to think that his expectations for the breed have been fulfilled, as German Shepherds are one of the most beloved breeds across the globe as both service dogs and companions. Learning about their unique history will make you appreciate the breed even more. The 5 Types of German Shepherds 1. They are thought to be as closely related to what Max von Stephanitz had in mind. Not only are they charming, but they are also workers at heart. As with most working lines, these dogs tend to be smaller by a slight margin opposed to show lines. They are bred to have a high pain tolerance, which makes them much more valuable in their field of work. They are hardy in structure and have more of a blended coat pattern, known as a sable color. While this is the most common, they can also be black and tan or a mixture of sable and black. These dogs are much higher energy than show lines, which also means their prey drive is much higher. Having these working lines as pets is absolutely doable. However, it may require a bit more commitment on your part. These hard workers will need various games or tasks to fulfill their mental thirst. Agility runs, stimulating games for sensory, and a sense of purpose is essential. Read about the best food for this breed. They share much of the same history as well. They were bred and tailored particularly for their extremely heightened desire to work, along with their quick ability to guard. Because of their prey drive instinct, monitoring them around other animals and small children can help to avoid primal triggers. Some are incredibly docile and sweet, never hurting a fly. However, because of their working roots, it is something to watch for as a responsible owner. They have incredible focus and endurance, suiting them perfectly for physically and mentally stimulating roles. Like their West brothers and sisters, East German DDRs have sable coloring, though most are darker and sometimes even black. German Shepherd puppies have a different diet — get them what they need! Czechs are a bit leaner than other working lines and are nimble because of that. They tend to mature the slowest growth -wise of the working lines. They were once the most prey driven, which led to high stamina and agility. While this line has calmed over the years, they are still hard-wired for work. So, if you opt for a Czech puppy, reputable breeding to ensure a proper temperament for your family situation is imperative. Having appropriate outlets is vital. If you want the best out of your dog , providing them with appropriate behavioral training is key to an irreplaceable relationship. Because of muddied breeding, many Czech puppies have bloodlines that veered off, mixed with another German Shepherd type line along the way. Looking to travel with your German Shepherd? These lines are the most different of all the Shepherd variations. Since they are a combination of many bloodlines, you may notice that an American Shepherd is more substantial in build and their heads and muzzles are shorter. American show line German Shepherds are most generally black and tan, though with specific breeding, they can be a variety of colors. They are generally lighter and have more of a sloping gait and longer hocks than their European relatives. Their underbellies are thicker, as are their chest portions. Because of the backyard breeding problem among Shepherds in America, many of these dogs are passed off as champions but are muddied down. So, if you want a show-quality Shepherd, be sure to do your homework. Proven bloodlines are a must to ensure good temperament and quality. Backyard breeding has led to these guys getting quite a bad rap. You may see people selling shepherds claiming strong champion bloodlines, but these may not be authentic. While people may not breed these dogs to be irresponsible, it leads to many undesirable traits, such as nervousness, aggression, and various health issues. Need a convenient place for your training treats? Best Treat Bags for Dog Training 5. They are typically a rich rust color and black. Their backs are straighter, preventing any excessive sloping to reduce commonly seen issues. They must pass tests to ensure that their joints and hips are in tip-top order, to avoid problems like hip and elbow dysplasia. The Show lines came about once the working lines were solid, and each dog used for breeding must also double as working dog material. However, rather than being such prey-driven workaholics, these tend to be slow-paced dogs who do better within family structures. Because of selective breeding, European, and mostly German show line German Shepherds, have a less chance of developing issues relating to ill temperaments. Tests will reveal any traits considered unwanted to prevent further breeding from the specimen. Therefore, the most significant difference between show lines of America and Europe is a focus on the overall greatness of the breed. European lines uphold the authenticity of the original breed standards. These strict regulations help produce reliable, well-rounded dogs. This is what initially led to the German Shepherd taking on different breeding structures between the two sides. The separation lasted until .The introduction of the German Shepherd to the United States dates back to .Because of unregulated breeding, the U. Many original bloodlines are now broken, causing undesirable traits in the breed. Czechoslovakia had their hand in things as well, developing their unique spin on the breed. Europe and American lines have differences relating to breed standards. Conclusion Generally, German Shepherds are fantastically loyal and fiercely intelligent. When you opt to purchase a puppy, you must be aware of its history. This step can only help enhance the bond you will have with your pet, as well as prepare you for any bumps in the road of pet-owning. When training is properly implemented, their brains are stimulated , and if they are well-cared for, they are terrific additions to many different lifestyles. To be confident that you are getting a quality dog , deeply research any breeder and their claims to lineage. That will help ensure that you are getting an even-tempered, trainable dog. UKC Classification: Herding Dog To prevent over-guarding and aggressive behavior, German shepherd dogs should have socialization and obedience training at a young age. German shepherd dogs reach a maximum of about 25 inches in height, and they weigh up to about 95 pounds 41 kilograms. He is a well-proportioned dog. The head is broad and tapers handsomely to a sharp muzzle. The ears are rather large and stand erect. The back is level and muscular, and the tail is bushy and curves downward. The coat is thick and rough and may be black, tan, black and tan or gray. The coat should be harsh and of medium length; however, long-coated individuals occur often. The breed lives about years. Personality: German shepherd dogs get along well with children and other pets if raised with them, but in keeping with their guarding instincts, they tend to be leery of strangers. The breed is considered to be smart and easy to train. Some poorly bred German shepherd dogs can be high-strung and nervous. Coupled with poor socialization and inadequate training, over guarding and aggressive behavior are risks. Living With: Because German shepherd dogs are large and powerful and have strong guarding instincts, great care should be taken to purchase German shepherds from reputable breeders. Poorly bred dogs are more likely to be nervous. To prevent over guarding and aggressive behavior, German shepherd dogs should be carefully socialized from a young age and be obedience trained. They should be with the family and continually exposed under supervision to people and other pets around the neighborhood; they should not be confined to a kennel or backyard either alone or with other dogs. German shepherd dogs are active and like to have something to do. They need ample exercise daily; otherwise, they can get into mischief or become high-strung. The dog sheds heavily about twice yearly, and the rest of the time sheds a lesser amount continually. To control shedding and keep the coat nice, brush at least a few times a week. History: German shepherd dogs are, as their name implies, a breed that originated in Germany. They were developed beginning in the late s by crossing various herding breeds. The breed was subjected to stringent selection and it progressed quickly. In the United Kingdom, the dogs are known as Alsatians because fanciers of the breed there wanted to protect the dog from anti-German sentiments after World War I. German shepherd dogs were introduced in the United States by soldiers returning home from World War I. The breed caught the public eye because of movie stars Strongheart and later, Rin Tin Tin. The first guide dogs were German shepherd dogs. Today, they are one of the most popular dogs in America. The German shepherd dog is a herding breed known for its courage, loyalty and guarding instincts. This breed makes an excellent guard dog, police dog, military dog, guide dog for the blind and search and rescue dog. For many families, the German shepherd is also a treasured family pet. Related Pet Care Articles. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic German Shepherd Dog Overview The German Shepherd Dog, recognized as the Alsatian in Great Britain and various parts of Europe, stands as one of the foremost canine breeds globally, often finding its place in the top 10 most favored breeds in the United States. Its distinction and fame can be attributed, in part, to a poignant tale from World War I. Amidst the turmoil of war, Corporal Lee Duncan rescued a young puppy from a war-torn breeding kennel in France. This pup, later named Rin Tin Tin, would become a legendary figure in the entertainment industry, starring in numerous films and amassing an astonishing 10, fan letters weekly during the pinnacle of its stardom. Beyond the silver screen, the German Shepherd has embraced a multitude of roles. From aiding the visually impaired and apprehending criminals to detecting illicit substances and serving in the military, this versatile breed has exhibited its prowess. It has also demonstrated its compassion by visiting the sick and exhibiting its herding instincts with livestock. Originating as herding dogs tasked with day-long duties, they possess substantial energy levels, necessitating ample physical activity and mental stimulation. A lack thereof can lead to undesirable behaviors like excessive barking and destructive chewing. Characterized by an aloof and occasionally wary disposition, they excel as vigilant watchdogs but may not exude the warm welcome typical of a family pet. Nevertheless, early exposure to diverse situations and individuals during puppyhood can cultivate adaptability. Descendants from American breeders often prioritize the pursuit of dog show accolades and distinctive aesthetics, sometimes at the expense of traditional working abilities. These dogs tend to exhibit heightened energy and determination. Thus, a visit to a shelter provides an invaluable opportunity to connect with your potential lifelong companion before making a commitment. German Shepherd Dog Highlights Renowned for their vigor and intellect, German Shepherds thrive when engaged in various activities such as learning, playing, and purposeful tasks. Daily routines should incorporate both physical exercises like jogging and Frisbee, as well as mental challenges like training sessions. The German Shepherd may not be the ideal choice if your schedule frequently keeps you away from home or requires extended absences. When left alone, they can develop feelings of unease or monotony, which might manifest through undesirable behaviors like excessive barking , chewing, and digging. German Shepherds often exhibit an aloof and cautious demeanor towards unfamiliar individuals. Initiating obedience training, commencing with puppy classes, aids in familiarizing them with other dogs and humans, while also instilling fundamental canine etiquette. Crate training proves invaluable not only for housebreaking purposes but also in instilling a sense of tranquility and contentment when separated from their owner. This aspect is particularly significant for the German Shepherd, as they can experience separation anxiety, leading to heightened distress when left alone. While they excel as vigilant watchdogs, it is essential to avoid chaining or tethering the German Shepherd solely for guarding purposes. This practice can result in frustration and potentially aggressive behavior. Optimal living conditions involve indoor coexistence with the family, along with access to a spacious, enclosed yard where they can expend their abundant energy. Consider exploring local shelters or breed-specific rescues for your next furry companion, including German Shepherds. Adopting from these sources before resorting to a breeder not only benefits the dog but also offers a chance to make a meaningful difference. An officer in the German cavalry, Captain von Stephanitz harbored a distinct ambition: to cultivate an unparalleled German herding dog. In preceding centuries, German farmers and their European counterparts relied on dogs to manage and safeguard their livestock. Certain canines gained legendary status for their herding prowess, prompting shepherds to traverse great distances to mate their female dogs with distinguished sires. However, as von Stephanitz astutely observed, the local herding dogs had yet to evolve into a distinct and unified breed. In , upon retiring from his military career, von Stephanitz embarked on a new chapter dedicated to his passion: experimenting with dog breeding to fashion an exceptional German herding dog. Drawing inspiration from the British, renowned for their exceptional herding dogs, von Stephanitz studied various breeding techniques. He traversed Germany, attending dog shows and closely observing German-style herding dogs. Amidst the fine examples he encountered—athletic, intelligent, and capable—he found a crucial element lacking: a single dog that encapsulated all these traits. While von Stephanitz initially intended the breed to excel in herding, the industrialization of Germany led him to envision a different path. Among them was an American corporal from Los Angeles, who rescued a newborn puppy from a war-ravaged kennel in France. However, the aftermath of the war introduced challenges. By , he recognized certain unfavorable traits emerging in German Shepherds, such as poor temperament and dental issues. He instituted a rigorous quality control system, requiring dogs to pass rigorous tests before breeding, assessing intelligence, temperament, athleticism, and overall health. American breeding prioritized appearances and show wins, while German Shepherds from Germany remained steadfast in their working abilities. In the face of performance challenges and genetic health concerns among American-bred dogs, a shift began, with some U. This breed falls squarely within the medium to large dog category, characterized by a strong and robust build that exudes both elegance and power. Adult German Shepherds typically possess a height range of 22 to 26 inches 56 to 66 cm at the shoulders, with males often standing slightly taller than females. However, these measurements may vary based on factors such as genetics, lineage, and geographical regions of breeding. This weight range contributes to their substantial and muscular appearance, reflecting their historical role as herding and working dogs. Their well-proportioned body structure, characterized by a level back, strong hindquarters, and deep chest, further emphasizes their agility and strength. While their imposing stature contributes to their role as capable guardians and protectors, it is important to note that their size is coupled with intelligence and an eager-to-please temperament. This blend of physical prowess and mental acuity positions them as versatile companions, excelling in various roles such as search and rescue, police work, service, and family pets. Maintaining an ideal weight and overall health is crucial for the well-being of German Shepherds. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine veterinary care contribute to their longevity and vitality. These dogs are inclined toward reserve, forming connections not instantly but deeply, and once those bonds are forged, their loyalty knows no bounds. Within their family circle, they exhibit an affable and approachable demeanor, yet when faced with threats, they can transform into stalwart protectors, showcasing their exceptional watchdog abilities. Endowed with remarkable intelligence and trainable instincts, this breed thrives when given a purposeful task—no challenge is too great. However, one aspect that requires careful consideration is their need for companionship and engagement. Prolonged periods of solitude do not align well with their nature. Without the necessary interaction, exercise, and opportunities to engage their sharp minds, they can experience boredom and restlessness. A German Shepherd left under-stimulated and isolated from family activities may resort to undesirable behaviors, such as excessive barking and destructive chewing. In line with all canines, early socialization proves pivotal for a well-rounded development. The German Shepherd should be exposed to diverse people, environments, sounds, and encounters during their formative stages. Such socialization lays the foundation for an adaptable and balanced adult dog, equipped to handle a variety of situations with confidence and ease. By embracing these qualities and providing suitable outlets for their energy and intellect, the German Shepherd can evolve into an outstanding companion and guardian, embodying the best of their remarkable personality traits. German Shepherd Dog Health German Shepherds typically enjoy good health, yet, akin to all breeds, they have susceptibility to specific health conditions. Hip dysplasia can manifest with or without apparent symptoms. Some dogs may display lameness and discomfort in one or both hind legs, with arthritis potentially developing as they age. Screening for hip dysplasia through X-ray assessments is conducted by organizations like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals or the University of Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be used for breeding. The consequence is painful lameness. Veterinary recommendations could encompass surgical intervention or pain management medications. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus Bloat : A life-threatening situation predominantly affecting deep-chested large dogs, bloat occurs when the stomach distends due to gas or air and subsequently twists. Immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent shock and possible fatality. Suspect bloat if your dog exhibits abdominal distension, excessive salivation, retching without vomiting, restlessness, lethargy, and rapid heart rate. Dogs with DM struggle to coordinate hind leg movements, often progressing to an inability to walk. Treatment options are limited, although rare instances might involve vitamin deficiencies, necessitating vitamin supplementation. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency EPI : This genetic pancreatic disorder diminishes digestive enzyme production, leading to impaired food digestion and absorption. Symptoms include gas, appetite loss, weight reduction, altered stools, and increased hunger. Allergies: German Shepherds are susceptible to various allergies encompassing contact and food sensitivities. Indicators may involve persistent scratching, paw licking, and facial rubbing. Consult your vet if such symptoms emerge. This translates to a surplus of energy that necessitates daily exercise for release. Extended periods of solitude without physical exertion can result in issues. Boredom and inactivity pave the way for undesirable behaviors, such as chewing , digging , and barking. To satiate their energetic demands, German Shepherds require both physical engagement jogging, playful sessions at a dog park and mental stimulation participation in agility or obedience competitions. Similar to many herding breeds, German Shepherds have a penchant for vocalization. Furthermore, these dogs have an inclination for chewing, and their formidable jaw strength can swiftly demolish various materials. German Shepherd Dog Feeding Tailoring a diet for a German Shepherd Dog requires consideration of their large size and elevated energy demands. Seeking guidance from your veterinarian or a certified nutritionist is prudent to determine the appropriate nourishment and portion sizes for your German Shepherd. As they progress through puppyhood, adulthood, and senior stages, their dietary requisites will evolve. Remaining attentive to these nutritional shifts is crucial. For German Shepherd puppies, particular attention is necessary when it comes to feeding and physical activity. Their rapid growth between four and seven months leaves them susceptible to bone-related issues. To mitigate such concerns, a high-quality, low-calorie diet is advisable to regulate their growth rate. Grass surfaces are more suitable, and puppy agility with minor jumps is permissible. Cautious portion control is essential to prevent excessive weight gain and potential joint complications. Striking a balance with treats, promoting regular exercise, and adhering to scheduled mealtimes, as opposed to constant access to food, safeguards against overfeeding. By being attentive to their dietary needs and mindful of their activity levels, you can contribute to the well-being and overall health of your German Shepherd. German Shepherd Dog Coat Color And Grooming Originally bred to manage flocks in challenging climates, the German Shepherd boasts a medium-length double coat that suits this task impeccably. This coat serves as a natural shield against rain, snow, and prevents the accumulation of burrs and dirt. The German Shepherd exhibits a diverse range of coat types and colors. The outer layer features dense, straight hair that lies close to the body, occasionally presenting a wavy or wiry texture. Notably, the American Kennel Club does not endorse white as an accepted color for conformation shows, though they remain eligible for other competitions. Prospective German Shepherd owners must brace for hair on various surfaces, from clothing to furniture. While no foolproof remedy exists for shedding, regular brushing , ideally two to three times a week, can help manage the hair situation by capturing more in the brush than on furnishings. A reliable vacuum cleaner also proves advantageous. Despite their shedding reputation, German Shepherds tend to maintain a fairly clean and odor-free disposition. Supplying durable and secure dental chew toys or bones can combat tartar buildup, especially on the back molars. Supplementing this with periodic brushing using a soft toothbrush and dog-specific toothpaste enhances gum and teeth well-being. German Shepherd Dog Children And Other Pets A well-trained German Shepherd that has been exposed to children, especially during their puppyhood, can make an excellent companion for kids. Some liken them to a blend of a caretaker and a guardian, as they exhibit gentleness and protective instincts towards the youngsters within their family. However, given their size, there is a potential for accidental bumps with toddlers or small children. Their reserved demeanor translates into a cautious approach with unfamiliar kids, yet their reliability generally prevails. While not overtly exuberant, German Shepherds can harmoniously coexist with other dogs and pets, provided they receive proper guidance from their early days. In such cases, enlisting the aid of a professional trainer or seeking guidance from the rescue organization, if you obtained the adult German Shepherd from there, can prove beneficial. German Shepherd Dog Rescue Groups Many individuals acquire German Shepherds without a comprehensive grasp of the responsibilities associated with their ownership. A multitude of German Shepherds are seeking adoption or foster care, and numerous breed-specific rescue organizations are spread throughout the nation. Below are a few links to a few of these German Shepherd rescue groups. They can be aloof, and you definitely have to earn their trust. Early social interactions with kids, babies and other animals is also important if you want your German Shepherd to be well-behaved around guests. With the proper education, this easy-to-train pup can be a great family dog. German Shepherds are born talkers. But training and exercise can help curb a lippy pup and keep their barking to when you need it the most. These dogs are incredibly smart, and they are at their best when they have a job to do, whether working as a police or military dog, doing tracking or search and rescue, serving as a guide dog or at home practicing scent work or solving puzzles for a treat. German Shepherds need regular grooming , plenty of exercise and a lot of training. However, these pups are quick studies, and all your efforts will be rewarded. Their dense double coat protects them from sun exposure and keeps them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Brush your pup every day with a pin brush to keep the coat shiny, clean and healthy, especially in the spring and fall when they shed the most Warning: They shed a lot. Bathing too frequently can strip their coat of its natural oils, so plan on bathing your German Shepherd every three to four months, or when they get really dirty. If you do see signs of infection, call your vet. Get the how-to here. Because they are a large-sized pup and wary of strangers, an untrained dog can be unruly. And their training should start early. Socialize your puppy with other animals and people and introduce them to new experiences and objects. Puppy school is a great way to get them used to other people and dogs and start their obedience training all in one place. Obedience training usually includes skills like sit, stay, come and how to walk nicely on a leash. Bred to herd cattle, Shepherds are often nippers as puppies, and you may have to navigate the teething phase for about six months. Participating in canine sports like agility, tracking and herding are great ways to train your pup, get some exercise in and strengthen your bond. Remember, the best German Shepherd is a busy German Shepherd, and enriching their environment by giving them something to think about and do will have tremendous benefits. You should talk to your veterinarian about a feeding chart that will let you know how much and how often to feed your dog based on their specific needs. German Shepherd dogs often get upset tummies, and their skin is notoriously sensitive. Pick a dog food with highly digestible proteins and nutrients that support skin health. Small amounts of cooked vegetables and eggs can also be beneficial to German Shepherds, but again, consult with your veterinarian to ensure your pup gets the nutrition they need. Just like with you, snack calories count! Exercise German Shepherds have a very high energy level, and you need to use up all that energy to keep your pup well-mannered. So, plan on spending about two to three hours every day focused on physical and mental activity. This could include scent walks, where your dog is allowed to stop and sniff whatever engages them, brisk jogs through the neighborhood or a game of fetch in your backyard. German Shepherds are known for their speed; they can run up to 30 miles an hour. Do you like to swim? Outdoor adventures, like hiking, are also a fun way to get off the beaten path and give your pup new scents to discover. Mentally stimulating activities can be just as tiring as physical ones. Hide treats under boxes, so your pup has to push the boxes around to get the treat or feed them in a creative way like stashing kibble in different spots throughout the house or use interactive feeding toys. These are great ways to get a German Shepherd to engage their nose and stimulate their mind. Ideal Environment The most important factor in raising a German Shepherd to be happy and healthy is a pet parent with the time and patience to train and play with them. As long as they get out and about for frequent exercise and do mentally stimulating activities in the home, they can be fine in apartments. To keep stress to a minimum, take your dog out during less busy times of the day and plan routes that are less hectic. Despite their tough exterior, German Shepherds have a soft center. They can get very lonely if left by themselves for long periods. So, if you have to be gone for a while, check them into doggy daycare or schedule a pet sitter to come by and play with your pup. Back to Top German Shepherd Health German Shepherds have a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years, but are prone to a number of health problems. Elbow and Hip Dysplasia: German Shepherd health issues include these degenerative joint diseases that can cause pain throughout their life. According to the Orthopedic Foundation of Animals, about 20 percent of German Shepherds have hip dysplasia. Look for signs like limping and decreased range of motion. Treatment can include weight loss, reduced activity or surgery. Degenerative Myelopathy: A neurological disorder that affects the spinal cord, this disease can lead to paralysis of the hind legs. Early signs of degenerative myelopathy include weakness in the hind legs and difficulty standing up. There is currently no treatment for it, but physical therapy can help preserve the muscles and prolong the use of their legs. Cancer: German Shepherds can develop certain types of cancers, including hemangiosarcoma malignant tumors that often develop in blood-rich areas like the heart or spleen , bone cancer, lung cancer and intestinal cancer. Signs of cancer can include lethargy and loss of appetite. Depending on the severity, treatment options can include chemotherapy, radiation or surgery. Bloat: This can turn into a life-threatening condition where the abdomens swells and twists, and it is more common in dogs with deep chests like German Shepherds. Allergies: You sneeze, your pup scratches. If you see your pup scratching a lot, it may not just be itchy skin—your pup likely has allergies. In the late s, Captain Max von Stephanitz set out to create the perfect German herding dog capable of keeping sheep in line and protecting them from predators like wolves and cross-bred different dogs from northern and central Germany. He spent decades promoting the breed and even created the first club devoted to German Shepherd dogs. When herding became less of a necessity in the s, their history took a turn when von Stephanitz decided German Shepherds would make the ultimate K-9 or police dog. The original Rin-Tin-Tin was born in .However, during the world wars, their popularity wobbled due to anti-German feelings. But this pup, with their wonderful personalities, was not down for long. Today, the German Shepherd is the second most popular dog breed in America. What is the price for a purebred German Shepherd puppy? You can also reach out to German Shepherd rescue organizations to adopt one or keep an eye out for a German Shepherd who needs a home at your local animal shelter. No, German Shepherds are not hypoallergenic. Their shedding can spread pet dander throughout your home, making them a breed to avoid for allergy sufferers. Are German Shepherds aggressive? Because they are some of the best guard dogs in the world, it would be easy to dismiss German Shepherds as aggressive. Yes, they are wary around strangers and will lay down their life for their family, but with proper training and socialization, this pup can be a great family pet. Are German Shepherds good with kids? German Shepherds are good with kids if they are properly trained and socialized. Also, be sure children are taught the proper ways to engage with dogs, including not invading their space unless they ask first. What are the most popular German Shepherd names? Get more dog names here. What are the most common German Shepherd mixes? Pet parents looking for a more independent and low-maintenance dog should definitely look elsewhere. Female Names. Though size varies between individuals, a standard German Shepherd weighs about 60 pounds. Whether you already own a German Shepherd pup or are looking into it, be prepared for a hefty lap dog! Continue to 7 of 16 below. They were originally bred for their striking good looks and intelligence, making for a great working dog on the police force and in the military. They were so cute that dog-lovers in other countries soon caught on and began breeding them themselves. Continue to 8 of 16 below. These dogs are very protective of their homes and family and make excellent guard dogs. Continue to 9 of 16 below. They need stimulation, even if they are a family pet and not a trained deputy. This can be in the form of playful games, puzzle toys, tricks , and obedience training. Otherwise, German Shepherds may show off some unpleasant behavior, like chewing. Continue to 10 of 16 below. Continue to 11 of 16 below. Continue to 12 of 16 below. They perk up as they grow older, making them look extra tall and important. Continue to 13 of 16 below. Beautiful all black and all white German Shepherds are out there, too. Continue to 14 of 16 below. Continue to 15 of 16 below. This breed is inherently athletic and courageous—nothing can stop them, not even water. Continue to 16 of 16 below. It lacks the physical deformities bred into western show lines of German Shepherds and has become one of Russia's most popular dog types. It was developed in the s and s to correct behavioural and conformational issues that have been bred into modern German Shepherds, and was bred for its large size, length of back, temperament and soundness of hips. White-coated German Shepherds were once banned from registration in their native Germany, but in the United States and Canada the coloration gained a following and a breed club was formed specifically for white German Shepherds, calling their variety the White Shepherd. The variety is recognised as a separate breed by the United Kennel Club. It descends from the American White Shepherds; the first stud dog of what was to become the breed was an American dog born in and imported to Switzerland. They are especially well known for their police work, being used for tracking criminals, patrolling troubled areas and detection and holding of suspects. Additionally, thousands of German Shepherds have been used by the military. These military working dogs MWD are usually trained for scout duty, and they are used to warn soldiers to the presence of enemies or of booby traps or other hazards. They were used in World War II as messenger dogs, rescue dogs and personal guard dogs. These include search and rescue, cadaver searching , narcotics detection, explosives detection , accelerant detection and mine detection dog, among others. They are suited for these lines of work because of their keen sense of smell and their ability to work regardless of distractions. When formal guide dog training began in Switzerland in the s under the leadership of Dorothy Eustis , all of the dogs trained were German Shepherd females. These results suggested that Labrador Retrievers were more suited to guide dog work while German Shepherds were more suited to police work. They are expected to patrol the boundaries to keep sheep from trespassing and damaging the crops. In Germany and other places these skills are tested in utility dog trials also known as Herdengebrauchshund HGH herding utility dog trials. He is regarded to be the dog who has captured the most drugs in Mexican police and military history. You may improve this section , discuss the issue on the talk page , or create a new section, as appropriate. By this number had grown to over .Returning soldiers spoke highly of the breed and animal actors Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart popularised the breed further. Her offspring had defects as the result of poor breeding, which caused the breed to decline in popularity during the late s. As of [update] , the German Shepherd is the second most popular breed in the US. Degenerative myelopathy , a neurological disease, occurs with enough regularity specifically in the breed to suggest that the breed is predisposed to it. A very inexpensive DNA saliva test is now available to screen for degenerative myelopathy. The test screens for the mutated gene that has been seen in dogs with degenerative myelopathy. The test is only recommended for predisposed breeds, but can be performed on DNA samples from any dog, collected through swabbing the inside of the animal's cheek with a sterile cotton swab. Prospective German Shepherd buyers can now request the test from the breeder or buy from a breeder who is known to test their dogs. Skeletal health and supplementation[ edit ] Musculoskeletal disorders are debilitating conditions that are often associated with genetic makeup, malnutrition, and stress-related events. Canine hip dysplasia CHD is an orthopaedic condition resulting from abnormal development of the hip joint and surrounding tissue causing the instability and partial dislocation of the hip joint, resulting in pain, inflammation , lameness, and potentially osteoarthritis of the joint. Both have stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. A German Shepherd named Inspector Rex is the star of an Austrian Police procedural drama program of the same name, which won many awards, where German Shepherd Rex assists the Vienna Kriminalpolizei homicide unit. It became one of the staple productions of Hungarian television history, making German Shepherds the most popular dog breed in the country ever since. Many can appear almost entirely black with hints of cappuccino shade closer to the mid-limb region. Black and tan colors are common. In addition to being visibly darker, these dogs, common among working dog breeds, also possess characteristics such as more compact bodies than their show-line counterparts. Their smaller bodies make them more athletic and suited for robust tasks, which means they demand more stimulation. But if you, as an owner, actually want a dog that can engage your family with high energy, then a Working Line GSD is perfect. This perfection also comes on a budget. Ultimately many business factors like supply, demand, experience, reputation, and cost of doing business need to be factored in. One might think that standard best practices like visiting the stud do not apply to working line dogs. Aside from stimulating physical activities, West German Working Line German Shepherds also crave attention and appreciation, much like what an owner would expect to give his faithful companion. So before welcoming a German Shepherd, including the West or East varieties, to your home, ensure it aligns with your lifestyle and standards. These dogs are purpose-bred; they need an owner equally committed to their emotional needs as they are to their physical ones. Finally, West German Working Line dogs have an intimidating presence — an excellent deterrence for intruders and even pests. So, whether you are a farmer or an investment banker, these German Shepherd dogs are bred for a wide range of purposes, and thus, they will make efficient pets. The East German Shepherds, bred with impeccably high standards, showcase unique anatomy. With cappuccino and tan swapped with sable or sober grey, these German Shepherd dogs have a darker appearance with prominent black fur across their backs. At least height-wise, the bigger DDR Shepherds match smaller show-line shepherds. Their purpose-focused breeding is evident in their physical structure. Their backs, alongside their fur color, give away the difference. Interestingly, though working-line German Shepherds are generally cheaper than show-line shepherds, East German GSDs might be an exception. The high standards adhered to in their breeding and their purpose of protection have resulted in their prices coming pretty close to the top-tier show variety. The rarity and robust health of these German Shepherd dogs is another contributing factor to their high prices. Pure DDRs are not only hard to find but also live healthier due to genetic predisposition to the illness being ruthlessly bred out at the stud-selection stage back in the days of Deutsche Demokratische Republik. Consequently, the dog is fit for physically fit single owners and families wanting a guard dog. Their intimidating presence, alongside their devotion to not just you but your entire family, makes them the perfect, practical companion. Their purpose as a protector is undeniably evident. Despite being almost immune to most disorders and diseases that most GSDs are prone to, East German Shepherds cannot defy physics and come with the same drawbacks as any big dog: the wrong crate, crate pad, or bed can seriously affect their joints. Czech German Shepherd Czech German Shepherd Czech German Shepherds , another meticulously bred variant adhering to specific standards, originate from the Czech Republic, or they would have a different name. They are also a working variety and come relatively cheaper than show-line shepherds. They are almost entirely black, sable, or a mix of the two and resemble DDR Shepherds in many visual traits. Their sizes are pretty similar, but it is best to get confirmation from the breeder. Aside from being similar in looks, these dogs are also pretty close to DDR Shepherds in personality and maintenance demands. You will need exciting puzzles and games to keep him occupied throughout his development. But before you try to find a suitable breeder, you must be positive that a Czech GSD is the right fit. However, the visual appeal aspect can be subjective, and looking at the stud can help you assess whether the puppy will grow into the kind of pet you have in mind. More than the looks need to be factored in when selecting a dog. Czech Shepherds have incredible stamina and an intense need to be liked. This makes them the perfect cross between guard dogs and family pets. Like most working lines, they will love you and your family and jump to protect what they love. That also comes with a drawback: you need to teach your Czech Shepherd to differentiate between threats and norms. Fortunately, Czech Shepherds are intelligent enough that if you train them right early on, they can be pretty social and discern between actual threats and the normal. Czech Shepherds are full of energy and need an outlet. If you have productivity problems, getting a Czech Shepherd might not be the right call. But if you are an active individual with enough space in your home and your heart for an eager, high-energy dog, then this breed is ideal for you. There seem to be as many categories of German Shepherds as there are actual German Shepherds. But ultimately, your choice comes down to two options: the working line dogs vs. Pros of. Your browser does not support the audio tag. Description The German Shepherd Dog is well proportioned and very strong. The GSD has a sturdy, muscular, slightly elongated body with a light, solid bone structure. The head should be in proportion to its body, and the forehead a little rounded. The nose is most often black, however, blue or liver still do sometimes occur, but are considered a fault and cannot be shown. The teeth meet in a strong scissors bite. The dark eyes are almond-shaped, and never protruding. The ears are wide at the base, pointed, upright and turned forward. The ears of puppies under six months may droop slightly. The bushy tail reaches below the hocks and hangs down when the dog is at rest. The front legs and shoulders are muscular and the thighs are thick and sturdy. The round feet have very hard soles. There are three varieties of the German Shepherd: double coat, plush coat and longhaired coat. The coat most often comes in black with tan, sable or all black, but also can come in white, blue and liver, but those colors are considered a fault according to most standards. A piebald color has also occurred in a single GSD bloodline that is now being called a Panda Shepherd. Temperament Often used as working dogs, German Shepherds are courageous, keen, alert and fearless. Cheerful, obedient and eager to learn. Tranquil, confident, serious and clever. GSDs are extremely faithful, and brave. They will not think twice about giving their lives for their human pack. They have a high learning ability. German Shepherds love to be close to their families, but can be wary of strangers. This breed needs his people and should not be left isolated for long periods of time. They only bark when they feel it is necessary. Often used as police dogs, the German Shepherd has a very strong protective instinct, and is extremely loyal to its handler. Socialize this breed well starting at puppyhood. Aggression and attacks on people are due to poor handling and training. This breed needs owners who are naturally authoritative over the dog in a calm, but firm, confident and consistent way. A stable, well-adjusted, and trained dog is for the most part generally good with other pets and excellent with children in the family. They must be firmly trained in obedience from an early age. They should be trained and socialized from an early age. German Shepherds will not listen if they sense that they are stronger minded than their owner, however they will also not respond well to harsh discipline. Owners need to have an air of natural authority to their demeanor. Do not treat this dog as if he were human. Learn canine instincts and treat the dog accordingly. German Shepherds are one of the smartest and most trainable breeds. With this highly skilled working dog comes a drive to have a job and a task in life and a consistent pack leader to show them guidance. They need somewhere to channel their mental and physical energy. This is not a breed that will be happy simply lying around your living room or locked out in the backyard. The breed is so intelligent and learns so readily that it has been used as a sheepdog, guard dog, in police work, as a guide for the blind, in search and rescue service, and in the military. The German Shepherd also excels in many other dog activities including Schutzhund, tracking, obedience, agility, flyball and ring sport. His fine nose can sniff out drugs and intruders , and can alert handlers to the presence of underground mines in time to avoid detonation, or gas leaks in a pipe buried 15 feet underground. The German Shepherd is also a popular show and family companion. Height, Weight Height: Males 24 - 26 inches 60 - 65 cm Females 22 - 24 inches 55 - 60 cm Weight: 77 - 85 pounds 35 - 40 kg Health Problems Indiscriminate breeding has led to hereditary diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia, blood disorders, digestive problems, bloat , epilepsy, chronic eczema, keratitis inflammation of the cornea , dwarfism and flea allergies. Also prone to splenic tumors tumors on the spleen , DM degenerative myelitis , EPI exocrine pancreatic insufficiency , and perianal fistulas and Von Willebrand's disease. Living Conditions The German Shepherd will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and do best with at least a large yard. Exercise German Shepherd Dogs love strenuous activity, preferably combined with training of some kind, for these dogs are very intelligent and crave a good challenge. They need to be taken on a daily, brisk, long walk , jog or run alongside you when you bicycle. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as in a dog's mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. Most shepherds love to play ball or Frisbee. Ten to fifteen minutes of fetching along with daily pack walks will tire your dog out quite nicely as well as give him a sense of purpose. Does best with a job to do. Life Expectancy. History Where are German Shepherd Dogs from? Perhaps never in the history of any breed has such concerted effort been put into improving a dog, mostly due to the formation in of the Verein fur Deutsche Scharferhunde SV, an organization in Germany devoted to overseeing the breeding of the German Shepherd. Breeders sought to develop not only a herding dog but also one that could excel at jobs requiring courage, athleticism, and intelligence. During World War I, they were the obvious choice for a war sentry. The Wolfdog was later dropped as it caused many people to fear the dogs. How big do German Shepherd Dogs get? The double-coat, with a thick undercoat that sheds twice annually, loses hair continuously but can be maintained with regular brushing one or two times weekly. What are the German Shepherd Dog colors? Black, tan, solid black and solid sable. How long do German Shepherd Dogs live? Lifespan: 10—12 years What are some German Shepherd Dogs facts and information? The German Shepherd held the number one spot in American popularity for many years. Although presently it has dropped from the top spot, the German Shepherd remains as one of the most versatile dogs ever created, serving as a police dog, war dog, guide dog, search-and-rescue dog, narcotics- or explosives-detecting dog, show dog, pet—and even shepherd. Related Content. Stoic and beautiful, hard-working and loyal, these breeds are used for a variety of tasks, including herding sheep, protecting livestock, acting as service animals for people with disabilities, and working with law enforcement and the military. German Shepherds can also make good pets! This blog will talk about each type of German Shepherd: what they look like, their temperament, and whether or not they make good pets. This breed makes for excellent pets because they tend to stay calm around new people and animals. That means they are fairly easy to train and are usually very receptive to the process. Families with young children often prefer this breed because of their easy-going nature and vigilant dedication to keeping everyone safe. This type of German Shepherd is very intelligent but can be aggressive towards strangers. They often make better working or guard dogs than pets. Families with young children and little time to devote to training or exercising this breed in the ways it requires should fully consider the commitment involved before adopting one. These types of German Shepherds are not very intelligent, but they make good family pets, especially when compared to the East-German DDR Working Line that can be aggressive towards strangers. The American Show Line, while iconic in appearance, is generally less practical than the previous three breeds. As pets, they can be aggressive towards strangers, and they tend to have a lot of energy. Like their American counterparts, they are bred mainly for show purposes. Unlike their American counterparts, however, they often work as service dogs or as guard animals. They make good pets, as long as you can provide ample stimulation and exercise. Should You Adopt a German Shepherd? Getting a dog is, after all, a huge commitment. Generally speaking, all German Shepherds will require a significant amount of exercise, attention, and training to ensure a healthy, balanced life. Because of their fierce loyalty, you will likely need to board your German Shepherd rather than leaving them with friends or family when traveling. Show dogs will require more maintenance and care, which means more trips to the dog groomer. Big dogs are more expensive to feed than small ones. These are just some of items you should consider before making your decision.


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how to know golden retriever puppy - First and foremost, you want to give your dog or puppy something safe. Otherwise, it can be unhealthy for them or even worse, dangerous. If you follow the tips listed below, it should help you find something perfect for them in the end. As tempting as it may be, never give your dog bones that are cooked. When considering store-bought bones for your dog, you should check with your vet first to make sure they are the right ones after all. If you choose rawhide bones, make sure there are no additives, preservatives, gelatin, or artificial sweeteners. Make sure the bones are all-natural. Feel free to give your dogs raw bones made of chicken, lamb, turkey, or beef. You should always give your dog a bone only after a meal, and your dog should never be given pork or rib bones. Finally, always give your dog a bone that is longer than its muzzle to make extra-sure your dog is safe. These bones are perfect for German shepherds because they are durable, safe, and last a long time. They also come in a variety of flavors that will keep your dog coming back for more. Related Questions 1. Can German Shepherds Chew on Bones? Yes, and the best bones for German shepherd dogs and puppies are either natural or synthetic bone chews. Can Dogs Digest Cooked Bones? Not really. Only give dogs raw bones and not cooked because they are both easier to swallow and easier to digest. Ideally, dogs should not get more than one to two bones per week, and you should always allow a few days in between each feeding just to be extra-safe. If you have any questions or concerns, always feel free to consult with your vet before providing bones to your dog. Why Trust Us? At TrainYourGsd. Related posts:. Goat Pork Note that the bones that you cannot give your German Shepherd to chew on can be thoroughly ground and included in their meal. This limits the risk of swallowing or choking. Also, larger bones are tougher and harder to break into pieces that can be easily swallowed and cause injury. Swallowed bones can also cause intestinal blockage, which at times is only rectifiable by surgical intervention. So, unless you have a good pet insurance policy, this could be both an expensive and worrying time! Time Matters when Giving a Bone to Your German Shepherd If your German Shepherd is an aggressive bone chewer, he is more likely to pull off big bone pieces and swallow them if he is hungry. It is recommended that you give a bone to your GSD after a meal when he is likely to gnaw for other benefits rather than filling his stomach. It is also safer if your dog swallows small pieces of bone after a meal since they will act as roughage when the food is digested. To avoid creating a problematic chewing behavior in your German Shepherd, avoid leaving your dog with a bone for hours on end. German Shepherds with stomach problems such as frequent diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome IBS , and those who have had issues with Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus GDV , also known as bloat, or have been operated on in the stomach should never be given a bone. For these dogs, the risk that comes from swallowing a bone is greater and can be fatal. I also have a must-read article on bloat, especially as German Shepherds are prone to this life-threatening condition. Bear in mind that unattended injuries caused by swallowing a bone can be fatal. According to the US Food and Drug Administration FDA , of the health problems caused by swallowing bones between and in 90 dogs, at least 15 proved fatal. But there are other non-nutritional benefits associated with giving your dog a bone. Here are the major ones: 1. On the one hand, chewing is an instinctual behavior in dogs and acts as a way of strengthening teeth as well as a form of brushing and ridding teeth of dental calculus. Gnawing on bones serves to break down tartar and reduce the risk of gum disease. This study sought to find out if chewing beef bones were effective in reducing dental calculus and reported a remarkable reduction in the same after dogs chewed on a bone for two weeks. According to Vet Times , a general but disputed rule for chewing in dogs recommends that dogs should not chew on anything too hard to be bent as this creates more risk for fractured teeth. Gnawing on a bone keeps your dog physically and mentally occupied. He has to concentrate on the bone, and that keeps his brain alert. Gnawing on the bone also works as a challenge for your GSD and helps with boredom. Mental stimulation is key to help reduce anxiety, which can cause other health conditions in your dog. Other benefits Other benefits associated with chewing bones among German Shepherds include: The stimulation in the production of saliva enzymes that are important in the reduction of plaque formation. Acts as roughage during digestion, preempting digestion problems such as bloat and excessive pressure on the anal glands. Final Thoughts The decision to give or not to give a bone to your dog is contentious. But it is agreed that giving your German Shepherd a bone provides healthy minerals. Despite these benefits, gnawing on bones can put your German Shepherd dog at risk if large pieces are swallowed or the flesh on the bone has been exposed to bacteria, especially if the bone has been left out for a long time. Fish, yogurt, cheese, and vegetables can offer the same minerals obtained from bones. I choose not to give my German Shepherd bones to eat as I believe the risks far outweigh the benefits. Ultimately, the decision is all yours, but there are also many bone alternatives your dog can try. Related Posts You May Like:. After all, bones provide numerous benefits including providing calcium and phosphorus, help to keep teeth and jaws healthy, and are good to relieve boredom, stress, and anxiety. Check out the list below to see the common misconceptions that people have about dogs eating bones. Never feed your dog sharp, small, cooked, pork, or rib bones. Only bones from home are safe, in most cases. In any case, bones should be disposed of after a couple of days as bacteria will form. Not all dogs can chew on bones. Many German Shepherds have poor or weakened teeth. Whether they have tooth decay, exposed enamel, or gum disease, chewing on a bone can cause instant sharp pain for your dog. Rubber or plastic bones are a safe alternative for dogs to chew on. They can be equally as dangerous as splintered bones, so choose wisely. You can see below my recommendations. Now that you know what to avoid, you can find good bones that fit within the healthy parameters from the previous section. Here are the five risks of feeding cooked bones to your German Shepherd: When bones splinter, it acts like glass. Choking is another common risk of eating cooked bones. If your German Shepherd is chewing on a bone, a piece can easily break off and go down his throat. Bones are incredibly dense, which is why they can lead to blockages when consumed. If your German Shepherd manages to swallow a piece of a cooked bone, it can get lodged in their digestive tract and cause a blockage. Sometimes, the only way to remove it is to pay for surgery. Some German Shepherds are sensitive to bone marrow, which becomes easily exposed from chewing on cooked bones. If your GSD has a sensitive stomach , then ingesting too much bone marrow could cause sickness and diarrhea as it is too rich and high in fat. Loose teeth can become shattered or ripped from their roots. Raw Bones vs. Chew Toys for German Shepherds Large raw bones are typically a safe choice for your German Shepherd to chew on, as are most chew store-bought bones. If you pulled them from a large animal, most big bones are the perfect size for German Shepherds. Raw bones should be big enough to prevent your dog from swallowing them whole. On the contrary, your GSD will get a nutritional boost from the raw bone from the calcium and phosphorus. Cons of Raw Bones You have to be very precise when choosing a raw bone for your dog. Bone marrow can cause all sorts of stomach issues if your dog is prone to tummy upsets. Supervision is necessary. Pros of Chew Toys Bones Convenient and easy to find. They allow you to continue to provide bones for your dog without requiring you to buy raw meat. Plastic bones last much longer than raw bones. If you choose a heavy-duty plastic bone, such as the Nylabone mentioned above, then your German Shepherd will be able to enjoy it for quite some time, and they also come in a range of flavors. Your dog will have to enjoy the task of chewing without being able to gnaw away at delicious raw meaty bits. Choose a flavored chew bone for your dog. The Benebone Real Flavor Wishbone is a hot choice for thousands of pet owners. The wishbone shape is ideal for dogs to grip and hold. It lasts seemingly forever, and the flavor stays around, unlike some chew toys. You can choose from chicken, bacon, or peanut. They can cause cracked teeth and other dental injuries. When the rawhide becomes soft it becomes easy for your GSD to break chunks off and swallow them. Puppies have delicate teeth and jaws, so they need softer bones that are easier to chew and digest. Here are some good options for German Shepherd puppies: Raw chicken necks or wings: These bones are small, soft, and easy to chew. They also contain cartilage and connective tissue, which can be beneficial for joint health. Raw beef marrow bones: These bones are larger and harder than chicken necks or ribs, but they contain a lot of nutrients and can be a good option for teething puppies. Additionally, any bone should be given under supervision and taken away once it becomes small enough to swallow whole. In this case, you will need to monitor them and keep an eye on their stools. However, if your GSD has accidentally eaten a cooked bone such as a rib or small chicken bone and they swallow a splinter, then you should take your dog to the vet immediately. Signs of intestinal obstruction include vomiting, lethargy, a painful tummy, and having no desire to eat. The sooner you can have your vet take a look, the sooner your dog will be safe. Note: Always watch puppies when they chew bones. They might literally bite off more than they can chew, so you need to be there to remove anything sharp or too small for their mouth. Final Thoughts German Shepherds love meaty bones just as much as any dog. As long as you follow the safety suggestions found in this post you can safely let them enjoy a good chew. Choose large raw bones bigger than their muzzle. Raw beef or lamb shank bones are a good choice. Supervise your dog at all times. There are many good alternative chew bones. Related Posts You May Like:. German Shepherds love to chew on bones but there are some dangers associated with this popular canine pastime. Giving your dog the right bone will lead to many happy hours of chewing. Make sure you know the differences so you can avoid any possible mishaps. The Best Bones For German Shepherd are large uncooked beef or lamb shank bones that are bigger than their mouth so that they are unable to swallow it whole. Because of their softness, they have a tendency to splinter while your dog is chewing on them. This can cause serious injuries to the digestive tract, mouth and throat. This article will answer some common questions people have about bones, some misconceptions and of course a list of our favorite bones for your German Shepherd. We will also tell you what to do if the worst case scenario happens and your precious pup swallows a bone. Is it safe to give your German Shepherd bones? Giving your German Shepherd a bone can be safe if you take the proper precautions. However anytime you give a dog a bone there is a risk involved. Here are the risks of giving your German Shepherd a bone: Blockage Fragments of bone can become stuck in the small intestines resulting in a blockage. Surgery may be required to remove them. They can also pierce the wall of the intestine causing Peritonitis. Parts of the bone can also make there way all the way down the GI tract to the large colon. They can collect there, causing constipation and severe discomfort. The resulting trauma can cause bleeding in the rectal area. The vet may have to use an enema or manipulate the bowel to remove the fragments. Bone stuck in the stomach If a piece of bone is too large, it may be unable to make its way out of the stomach. This can result in abdominal surgery or an endoscopy to remove the bone fragment. This can cause an infection referred to as Peritonitis which can be fatal. Cracked Teeth Dogs can crack their teeth chewing on a hard bone such as a store bought cooked bone. This can lead to costly dental bills from the resulting extraction or even possible root canal needed to fix the tooth. Not to mention the pain it will cause your dog. Mouth and tongue injuries When a piece of the bone breaks off into the dogs mouth, it can be super sharp, cutting the roof of the mouth or piercing the tongue and cheek. Obstruction of the airway A bone that is too small can get lodged or stuck in the dogs esophagus causing them to choke. Pieces or shards of the bone can also get stuck in the trachea making it hard for your dog to breathe. Raw bones can be contaminated While raw bones are by far the safest choice, they can be contaminated with certain dangerous pathogens. When it gets stuck behind the lower canine teeth, it is very tough to get dislodged. Sometimes the only remedy is a trip to the Emergency Vet where your dog might need to be sedated or anesthetized to remove it. What are the benefits of giving my German Shepherd a raw bone? Although this topic is highly debated in the dog world, there are benefits to giving your dog a raw bone. You must decide for yourself if the benefits outweigh the risks. I personally think they do. Here are some of the benefits that your dog will get from a raw bone. Clean Teeth A raw bone is a great substitute for brushing your pooches toothy trains. Chewing on the bone helps stimulate the saliva enzymes and helps get rid of any food trapped in your dogs teeth. It also prevents the build up of tarter and keeps the teeth healthy and clean. This will help to avoid any trips to the vet for extractions or scaling of the teeth. Ten to twenty minutes of chewing after a meal should do the trick. Helps dog avoid bad chewing habits A nice raw bone can be a great way to distract your dog from any bad or unwanted chewing habits. Some dogs have a habit of chewing on clothing, furniture, socks. A bone will keep there attention and hopefully prevent them from any negative chewing habits. They contain calcium phosphate which can be up to four times easier for your dog to digest verses other common calcium supplements. Raw bones are excellent for larger breed dogs such as the German Shepherd. Because of their quick growth, they need the extra calcium for their large skeletal system. The best types of raw bones to give your dog: Frozen raw bones Freezing bones before giving them to your dog is a great way to slow down their chewing and digestion. Large raw bones The size of the bone will depend on the size of the dog but in general you want to give your dog large raw bones that are bigger than their head and a greater length than their muzzle. A German Shepherd for example, will require something large such as a lamb breast or a turkey neck. Meaty raw bones Raw bones with plenty of meat on them are the best for your dog. You want to have a good balance of meat to bone. Excess bone without the meat can cause constipation. If the bone is a little bare, some additional meat on the side will help even things out. Bones to avoid giving your dog: Antlers Avoid any types of antlers. They are too hard for your dog and can wreak havoc on their teeth causing injuries. Bones that are cut up into small pieces This would include knuckle bones and ox-tail bones that have been cut. Cooked bones Cooked bones that you buy from the store are the worst choice. The softness of these bones can lead to splintering which can cause injuries. Rawhide Bones Stay away from these bones as they are a choking risk. The rawhide can get soft after your dog chews on it for awhile. Because of this, your dog can easily tear off big chunks which can be swallowed if unsupervised. Small bones Smaller bones are a choking hazard. Stay away from chicken, pork or rib bones which are common but unfortunately dangerous. They are more prone to splinter causing damage to your dogs mouth. Tips for giving your dog a bone: Avoid bones that have been cut the length of the bone. Bones that have been cute the entire length of the bone are more likely to splinter and have sharp edges. Avoid giving bones with marrow to dogs with Pancreatitis. Instead try giving them an alternative. Avoid giving bones to dogs with previous dental work. Dogs that have had any teeth restored are in danger of braking those teeth. You are better off not giving them a bone. Instead give them a safe alternative. Freeze bones when they are not being used. Keep the bones in the freezer when they are not being used. It will help avoid contamination and help slow down the time it takes for your dog to chew a bone. Give your dog a bone following a meal. Let your dog finish their dinner. Then throw them their favorite bone. It should slow down the aggressiveness of their chewing lessening the chance of them swallowing part of the bone. Never leave your dog unsupervised with any bone. They can chew for too long and the bone can become small enough for your dog to swallow. They can also bite off pieces that can become stuck in their throat or pierce the inside of their mouth. Ten to twenty minutes is a sufficient amount of time for your dog to chew its bone. Throw away bones when they get old or worn down. Once a dog chews on a bone for a long period, it becomes more brittle with more chance of splintering. Throw it out and get a new bone. Bone powder as an alternative: If you are concerned about the repercussions of giving your dog a raw bone, you can grind them down into a powder and sprinkle it on their food. They will get the benefits of the minerals and nutrients without the risks we discussed earlier in the article. The calcium phosphate alone is enough to make the whole process worth it. Keep in mind, your dog will miss the benefits of chewing which can include healthier teeth and less anxiety and stress. Best coarse of action if your German Shepherd swallows a bone: Dogs love to chew and they love to eat. This can often times lead to your dog swallowing part of a bone and sometimes even the whole bone if is too small. You will definitely want to keep a close eye on your pooch when they are chewing on their favorite bone. According to Dr. Most of the time, the bone simply dissolves. He recommends staying away from large beef vertebrae especially from the butcher. Dogs have a tendency to want to swallow it since it is hard to break into smaller bits. It then can become stuck in the lower esophagus in the chest resulting in possible surgery to remove the bone. If he is and you can locate the bone in his mouth, try to safely remove the bone and clear the airway. If you cannot do this safely, take your dog to the veterinarian immediately. The second step to take, if your dog swallows a bone and seems fine, is to contact your veterinarian and ask them what to do. The size of the bone swallowed will determine the best course of action. On rare occasions your vet may decide that surgery is necessary to remove the bone. Step three is to wait and monitor your dog. If your dog becomes sick after swallowing the bone and starts to vomit, call the veterinarian immediately and try to take them in as soon as possible to get checked. Symptoms to look out for: Abnormal movements Blood in their stool or diarrhea Constipation. They are filled with natural marrow with no added additives. The natural marrow bones are bacteria-free and safe to consume. The bones are handpicked and inspected, to enhance quality and consistency. They are odor-free, have a perfect texture and thickness. They keep the teeth clean and effectively remove tartar build-up and plaque. Pros They are sourced from grass-fed free-range cattle Made from one natural ingredient Effectively removes tartar build-up and plaque They have a perfect thickness Cons Blue Buffalo Wilderness Wild Bones If you are looking for grain-free bones for your German Shepherd, the Blue Buffalo wilderness wild bones are a great option. These bones are great for a German Shepherd with a sensitive stomach. They contain zero poultry by-products, and they are formulated to strengthen the canine. They are perfectly roasted for your German Shepherd to enjoy a rich meaty taste. They are natural and have no artificial ingredients or additives. The bones are gluten-free, soy-free, and wheat-free. For a large breed like a german shepherd, these bones last long and can withstand aggressive chewing. They are stuffed with beneficial ingredients to keep your dog healthy. The bones are formulated to give your dog a healthy jaw. The rich taste makes the dog want to chew throughout, therefore strengthening the jaw. Pros They have a rich beef taste They are slow-roasted to preserve the taste They are natural.