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If this is you, then why not go for a Pug mix instead? Pug mixes come in different sizes, shapes, and colors. Who knows, you might just welcome one of these adorable canines into your home one day! They have the face of a pug and the fluffy coat of a Havanese. These dogs are quite petite and barely go over 10 lbs. After all, both parents are on the small side. But even with the tiny stature, they are protective pooches that are always ready to defend their families. They are densely-coated canines that come in a wide range of colors. But most of them have pointy ears like a Shiba and a short muzzle like a Pug. Personality-wise, Pug Shibas are affectionate. But they can also be quite active, thanks to the prey-instincts typical with a Shiba Inu. Thus, moderate exercise is necessary to prevent them from getting restless. They have expressive faces, which they inherit from their parents. These are friendly canines that are your go-to buddies for adventure and lazy days at home. Just like a purebred Chihuahua, Chugs are pretty small. They barely reach over 12 inches and can weigh up to 20 lbs. They are alert creatures that are very loyal to their favorite humans. Poxers are small to medium-sized with a compact physique. Due to their inherent intelligence, these canines are easy to train, making them ideal for first-time dog owners. This Cavalier and Pug mix is a fun combo of energy, agility, and comedic talents. As for their appearance, they take after either parent. But overall, Pugaliers have a face of a Pug and the coat color of a Spaniel. Awesome combo! No two Pugadors look the same but one thing is certain — they will always have the same scrunched up face Pugs have. These dogs are a little bigger than many Pug mixes. They may weigh as heavy as 50 lbs or a little lighter at 30 lbs. Their coat colors also vary and can come in solid black, beige, or fawn with some white markings. They may not be a spirited pooch like a Terrier but these fellows are not lazy bums either. Pugairns play hard and relax just as hard. They are fun-loving creatures that do well with kids. Want a dog that learns tricks easily? This hybrid pooch is for you as they are smart, obedient, and easy to train. These entertaining fellows are sure to bring a smile to your face. Friendly to their owners, yet reserved towards strangers, they are cautious canines. They also thrive in human attention, so it is best to keep them company to prevent separation anxiety. They are curious and courageous canines with a strong desire to be with their pack members. Thus, they do amazingly well as family pets. If you want a Pug mix that is great for first-time owners and is easy to train, then the Frug is for you. They are great buddies who love to please their humans at all times. Pugs are humorous and affectionate dogs. So, put them together, and you have a snuggle buddy Affenpug. These are spunky canines with a fancy for adventure and occasional mischief. But not to worry, when at home, they are generally calm and easy-going. They also make good watchdogs, thanks to the alertness of an Affen and the boldness of a Pug. So, if you own one, consider yourself one of the very special few! These canines are playful and energetic pooches. They have short coats, which make them perfect for busy owners who have no time to groom their pets. Lastly, they thrive well in moderate climates. These adorable canines give you the best of both worlds — the versatility of a Brussels Griffon and the playfulness of a Pug… All in a tiny package. Brugs get along well with people of all ages, as these dogs are generally mild-tempered. If you are a first-time pooch owner, this pup is for you. But they are not quite common. So, if you are a proud owner of this pup, consider yourself lucky. In terms of appearance, this canine gets the wrinkled face of a Pug and the fluffy coat of a Shar-Pei. They thrive on physical activity, so it is best to give them ample exercise and playtime. These dogs are — your guessed it — a Combo of the Pug and Corgi, hence the name. As for their looks, imagine a short-legged Corgi with a wrinkly Pug face. Possessing the lovable nature of a Maltese and the loyalty of a Pug, you have for yourself a four-legged BFF for keeps. They are one of the friendliest pooches around. In fact, they work hard to please their humans, which makes them highly trainable. This is a Pug mix that has all the best qualities of each parent dog breed. Size-wise, Cocker Pugs range from small to medium. They may have curly or smooth coats, which can be long or short. Do take note that they have double coats, so these are not exactly your hypoallergenic canines. This pooch has a fancy for running around and activity, thanks to the inherent agility of the Toy Fox Terrier. Additionally, they have the loyalty and boldness of a Pug. If you have small kids around, the Toy Poxer may not be quite a good fit for them. They tend to snap back when threatened during rough play, so it is best to handle them gently .They possess the stubbornness of a Husky and the affectionate qualities of a Pug. Put together, you have a hyper and sweet pooch that loves a lot of movement. Training these dogs would require some patience. But no worries — they are amazing with kids and other dogs as they are quite tolerant and even-tempered. These are small Pug mixes with a fluffy coat as a Bichon, and a wrinkly forehead as a Pug. Personality-wise, they are people-pleasers and would do anything to get on your good side. One thing to note, though — Pushons love to bark. A lot. They may bark at the sight or noise of something unfamiliar to them. Early socialization is essential to overcome this tendency. But no two pooches are alike. Some Sheltie Pugs may have a long coat while others tend to be short. As Shelties are natural herders, they have the tendency to herd young children. They also love to play and engage in activities with their family members. But do not be fooled — they LOVE to play and are actually light-hearted creatures. They also have varied coat colors and length. Yet one thing is constant — they are always loving and affectionate no matter what they may look like. These dogs have long coats of various colors. The Pugapoo is an outgoing, intelligent, and loyal pet to their owners. For those who want to own a dog for the first time, a Pugapoo may just be the right match for you. They are endearing, gentle pups that have no desire other than to love their owners. They are ultra-affectionate pooches that are easy to train. Thus, they do well with folks of all ages. Otherwise, they may become aloof to other family members, as well as with your other pets in the house. They possess the liveliness and alertness of the Dachshund, as well as the inherent obedient nature of the Pug. Daugs can be cuddle bugs but they are also independent creatures. These pooches have a fancy for exploration and adventure, which makes them perfect companion dogs. They have smooth, medium-length coats and a small to medium body size. As for their personality, these pups love to play and run around. Considering their personality, it is best to give your Silky Pug ample exercise time. But with their relatively decent size, they can do well even without a very large space to romp around. Thus, expect a lot of activity from this curious, agile, and playful pooch! At the end of the day, though, a Schnug would never say no to a cuddle session. They love to please their owners, so you have a loyal companion by your side. These dogs usually come with brindle coats or other variations but always shorter in length. As any hybrid dog, the Pug Doberman possesses the traits of both parents. They have the face of a Pug and the sleek physique of a Doberman. These are your fearless canines that are always ready to protect your home and family. They are compact, which makes them suitable apartment dogs or city pets. Considering that both parents are top companion dogs, a Bugg is simply lovable. They are inherently loyal as a Pug and cheerful and comical as a Boston Terrier. As these are pack animals, they do well with their families. They are highly motivated and intelligent creatures, so it should be easy to train these canines. Plus, they are people-oriented, which makes them suitable for kids and adults alike. This Pug mix may be small — barely over 22 lbs — but they have a big personality. Pug Zus are great lap dogs, although they do possess a hint of stubbornness in them, at times! They are outstanding companions that suit well in many types of families. These are small pups that weigh about 15 lbs on an average. They require early training and socialization. Moreover, they learn well with positive reinforcement, so be sure to give plenty of praises for a job well done. They are small to medium-sized pups that inherit the agility of a Dalmatian and the relaxed personality of a Pug. Thus, the Pugmatian is a great family pet. They need firm training at first to get along well with all members of the family. But once you get the early training nailed, you have a great companion dog in this one. These designer dogs are lean with short muzzles and wrinkly faces. They are very friendly creatures, so they should do well with any dog enthusiasts — even first-time owners! Another plus point to these dogs is their size. Since they are small, you should have no issue owning a Pom-A-Pug in an apartment or condo unit. You can also easily tag them along because of how portable they are — and they do enjoy outings as they love to explore! They are great lap dogs as these canines are calm, laid-back, and gentle. Most importantly, Japugs are relatively silent dogs. These canines are not big on barking. So, if you want to own a dog that your household members and neighbors will love, then this one is for you. They are generally good-natured canines that are always eager to play with their favorite humans. So, if you want a low-maintenance pup, the Puggat fits the bill perfectly well. Not much space at home? With their small stature, they can fit well in a modest apartment without any problem. Then a Jug is just what you need. These hybrid dogs have the spirited nature of a Jack Russell and a comical trait of a Pug. They are sure to brighten your days. Since Jugs love the outdoors, it is best to give them what they need to thrive and to keep them happy. A few hours spent on romping around the yard should suffice to make your Jug feel loved. They have droopy or erect ears like a Yorkie and big, dark eyes like a Pug. These are gentle creatures that are easily content wherever they may be. Treat them with kindness, and they will reward you with their undying love and affection. But just as most small dogs, this Pug mix is not too crazy about roughhousing with young kids. Thus, they are better off with adults and older children who know how to treat a dog gently. These canines have cottony soft coats like a — you guessed it — Cotons. They do require activity but it should not be anything more than daily walks. Plus, Pug-Cotons do well with first-time owners are these pooches are trainable and generally easy to care for. Since they are not very common, it is worth looking into the traits of both parents to have an inside look at what to expect from this Pug mix. An important thing to remember about the Pugita is their weight. These dogs tend to overeat and gain weight easily. They possess the finest qualities of the Papillon and the Pug, which is the reason behind the high energy and versatility of this Pug mix. Novice dog owners should have an easy time training this pooch. After all, they are smart pups that love to please their favorite humans. Hence, they are your vigilant and loyal canines that are always ready to protect your home and everyone in it. When not romping around or busy watching your home, Tibetan Pugs enjoy being a lap dog. And why not? They are tiny pups weighing no more than 15 lbs. So, it is best to be gentle with these small canines. They are not really big on physical activity, so they should do well indoors. Moreover, they are quiet canines who barely get into a bark-fest unlike other Pug mixes. But keep in mind that Bullpugs have a tendency to gain weight far too easily. Even if they enjoy lounging more than movement, you should still give them some exercises a few times a week to keep them healthy. They may either be quiet as a Pug or temperamental as a Beagle. For folks with allergies, just a heads up — Puggles shed quite a lot. But with frequent brushing and regular grooming, this should keep the shedding issue under control. When these two breeds are combined, what you get is a sweet and affectionate hybrid that is hard to resist. They are also easy-going canines that do well with anyone. Pug Pits are great for people who like a low-shedding pet. Alert like an Eskimo dog and sweet like a Pug, this Pug mix is a fantastic family dog that wants a watchdog and companion pooch in one. They may be small and light, but these canines are tough. They are bold and fearless, which makes them a reliable protector for your home. Early socialization and obedience training are a must to tone down their inherent territorial instincts. The Pugland is a superb companion pooch that is only a foot tall and barely tipping the scale at 20 lbs. They possess the medium to long coat of a Westie and the wrinkly face of a Pug. Just as many small dogs, Puglands are better off with older children. They do not tolerate rough teasing, as they have a tendency to snap back when feeling threatened. These designer dogs were bred for the elite, which gives them an air of elegance and royalty. While these dogs can be a bit stubborn at times, they are definitely adorable. If you want a lap dog that is always game for cuddles, the Puginese is a fine choice for you. They are medium-sized dogs with a golden coat and the same short muzzle that Pugs are known for. They are endearing creatures that are always game for anything — playtime, cuddles, you name it, they want it! An Australian Shepherd and Pug mix is a fiercely loyal, loving, and intelligent pooch. These cuddle bugs have the build of a Pug and the interesting coat color of an Aussie Shepherd. Quite a fine outcome. Overall Pug mixes are generally healthier than purebred dogs. Do Pug Mixes Shed? Purebred Pugs shed profusely days in a year. Some even have double coats, so they shed even more. But Pug mixes are a combination of a Pug and another breed, which will mean that not all hybrids shed as much. The lifespan of a Pug mix depends on a number of factors such as any genetic diseases present and lifestyle. For the most part, however, Pug mixes live between 8 to 15 years or sometimes longer. This leads to pain, stiffness and restricted movement. Denture malocclusions Malocclusions of the dentition often occur in dogs with short muzzles. Shortness of breath Difficult breathing can be recognized by the dog's rattling and sometimes accelerated breathing rate. Overweight Often, unfortunately, the dogs very much under excess weight. But the dogs themselves are never to blame! Heart disease Can occur frequently in dogs and can sometimes be treated with medication. Breathing problems Dogs with shortened muzzles can often experience respiratory problems. FAQ What does a pug-havanese mix look like? A Pug-Havanese mix usually has a short, compact body with a square head. The coat is usually short and can be either straight or wavy. Common coat colors are black, fawn and silver. What is the temperament of a pug-havanese mix? A Pug-Havanese mix is usually a friendly and playful dog. They usually get along well with other pets and children. How much exercise does a pug-havanese mix need? A Pug-Havanese mix usually needs moderate exercise. A daily walk or play session should be sufficient. Are Pug and Havanese mixes easy to train? Pug and Havanese mixes are usually intelligent and very affectionate, so they are relatively easy to train. Do pug and Havanese mixes bark a lot? Pug and Havanese mixes tend to bark less than other breeds, but they may bark when they are excited or playing. Author Sissi Author Sissi is a blogger since , came on the dog .Since then she struts daily her steps with Loki through the world. The Beagdor Labrador-Beagle mix is a therapy dog for children and also accompanies her to schools. Secretly she fancies a French Bulldog as a second dog. Sissi is a blogger since , came on the dog .Useful Articles. Do Ewokian dogs shed? A Havanese pug mix is a hybrid dog breed that, as you may have guessed, has one parent that is a pug and another that is a Havanese. Either the mother or the father can be the pug, and vice versa with the Havanese. This will still result in the same breed. Another name that you may have heard for a Havanese pug mix is a Puganese. As it is a cross between these two breeds, a Puganese cannot be considered a purebred dog. Instead, they are a hybrid or may also be referred to as a designer dog breed. Due to this, the breed does not have its own long history— it is still fairly new, but the pug parent breed of the Puganese does! The pug first dates back to China in the time of the Han dynasty. This short-nosed breed was meant for Emperors, and they were revered as a part of the royal family. Then, from there, the Dutch traders brought pugs to Europe in the and s, where they became popular with European royalty, too. After the Civil War, the pug was found in the United States. In , it earned its recognition by the American Kennel Club. As the pug passed through all of these great nations, it was often given a new name at every port of call! In more recent years, the Havanese hybrid breed was born and then began to be bred with pugs to create the Puganese. Read on for some of the possible physical characteristics that you may see in a Puganese dog. Size This breed is, like its parents, a small dog. The Puganese can be considered to be a toy breed, and it only grows to weigh about 10 pounds. In some cases, the dog can be even smaller. Estimates for both male and females range between 9 and 11 pounds of weight. As these numbers suggest, the males and females of this breed do not typically differ in size— unlike some breeds, where one sex is typically larger than the other. Coat This breed can inherit a shorter coat from its pug parent— which is easier to take care of— or the longer coat of its Havanese parent. Both of these breeds have a double coat, which means that your Havanese pug mix is sure to have one of these as well. Most dogs of this breed will have a medium length coat, and the texture may vary. Pugs usually have a straight coat, while the Havanese coat has a wavy texture. Most Puganese will have a wavy coat as well, and while the coat is not as dense as some breeds, it is not sparse, either— density falls somewhere in the middle here! Coloring There are more than one color that you may encounter a Havanese pug mix in. The most common coat colors of a Puganese are black, cream, brown, or silver. This does not necessarily mean that this breed only comes in one color. You may see the breed in more than one color. For example, a Puganese may be black and cream in coloration, which is also common coloring for a pug. Puganese Bred Personality The personality, or the temperament, of a Puganese are a blend of traits that are inherited from the two parent breeds— the pug and the Havanese. In general, the Puganese is a happy and friendly dog, one that loves to get attention from his family and others that it encounters. The pug parent passes on its curiosity, while the Havanese can be stubborn and independent, with a mind of its own. This can be passed on to the puppies from the Havanese parent, too. The personality traits that are inherited by each puppy will also depend upon the puppy itself. Just as people have different personalities, so do our pets! With the Puganese, something to watch out for is if your dog thinks they are the dominant one in your home. This is something that can be commonly found with this hybrid breed in particular. It can manifest in aggression or frequent barking. If you notice this starting to happen, you will need to be firm with your dog and establish boundaries. Your Puganese should be able to understand that the humans are the dominant ones in the household, and this can then help your pup to relax and become more comfortable. Puganese Breed Maintenance The Puganese has the chance to inherit a coat more like its Havanese parent or one closer to that of its pug parent. For that reason, the coat care and maintenance that is required for this breed is going to depend on which parent its coat resembles. The short coat of a pug makes things much easier for maintenance. Typically, this kind of coat will only require weekly brushing and, of course, regular baths! On the other hand, if the Puganese has the longer coat that is synonymous with the Havanese breed, maintenance is more involved. A Havanese esque coat will require much more frequent brushing sessions in order to prevent the hair from becoming tangled. More frequent bathing than a Puganese with a short coat is also necessary. This is very important for dental health, so you will want to make sure you brush their teeth a few times a week to avoid dental issues later on. It should be noted that there is, technically, no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog, because all dogs can cause an allergic reaction. Some simply cause fewer reactions! Havanese dogs and Havanese mixes, though, are still considered to be hypoallergenic. They have low shedding coats, which can help by triggering fewer allergies or allergic attacks. This breed also has low dander, and dander is one of the things that typically triggers allergies in people who are sensitive to animals like cats and dogs. What is a Puganese? One of these is the Puganese. If you are unfamiliar with the Puganese, this is a mix between the Havanese breed and a Pug. This hybrid breed is a small dog that does not usually get much bigger than 10 pounds. When it comes to the personality of a Puganese, this dog is happy go lucky and loves attention— they are also curious and usually strong willed. What 2 dogs make a Pug? Pugs are a breed that can be used to create some other breeds, such as the Puggle or Chug— which are a cross between a Pug and a Beagle and a Pug and Chihuahua, respectively. The Chinese originally bred the Pug, along with some other breeds known as the Lion dog and the Pekingese. The Pug was the third of the short nosed dogs that the Chinese bred. However, at this time, the Pug was known as something else— the ancient pug was the Lo-sze. Originally, the Pug was bred to be a companion dog for wealthy individuals. An Ewolian dog is a breed of dog that takes its name from the Ewoks, a fluffy animal like character from Star Wars. They resemble a puppy or perhaps a teddy bear. They are a mix between the Havanese and the Pomeranian breeds. Ewokian dogs can be shedders, though it does partially depend upon the individual dog itself. For instance, if the dog looks like its Pomeranian parent, it will require more brushing and will shed more. Havanese dogs do not shed as much— they are considered moderate shedders. So, if the dog more closely resembles its Havanese parent, it will not shed as much. Both of these dogs can be friendly but personalities differ, so you never know. The Havanese is known for being intelligent, responsive, and playful. All dogs need proper socialization and that will be a big factor in how they interact with others. What does this mixed breed look and act like? Is it more like the Havanese or the Pug? Those are the questions we will try and answer below. Continue reading below to see pictures, videos, and learn more about the beautiful Havanese Pug Mix. While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue, we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their Havanese Pug Mix puppy. That is, if they have any Havanese Pug Mix puppies for sale. If you are interested in helping animal rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer donates to help feed shelter animals. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. If you have a few minutes, please sign our petition to stop puppy mills. Havanese History The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba. It is a member of the Bichon family of dogs. They were unfortunately unable to bring their dogs with them. Once they became established here, the breed had a bit of a resurrection. The initial gene pool was 11 dogs. It is actually used as a working dog at times, detecting mold and termites and tracking. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in .They are believed to be related to the Tibetan Mastiff. They were prized by the Emperors of China and lived in luxurious accommodations, sometimes even being guarded by soldiers. In the latter s and early s, China began trading with European countries. It is thought that they first came to Europe with the Dutch traders, who named the breed Mopshond. The name Mopshond is a name still used today. Pugs quickly became favorites of royal households throughout Europe, and even played a role in the history of many of these families. In Holland, the Pug became the official dog of the House of Orange after a Pug reportedly saved the life of William, Prince of Orange, by giving him a warning that the Spaniards were approaching in .In the early s, Pugs were standardized as a breed with two lines becoming dominant in England. The other line was developed by Lord and Lady Willoughby d'Eresby, and was founded on dogs imported from Russia or Hungary.

If you will be gone for hours a day at work, a larger kennel system is a good idea. My girl Aura loves her crate which is like a little den for her. I leave the door open and she goes in it often when she wants to get away from it all. She has the 48x32x35 Petmate Ultra Vari listed above. I work from home and she is rarely locked up in it. What is the best material for a German Shepherd crate? The sliverylake is steel and the Zinger Winger is heavy duty aluminum. The aluminum crate is lighter weight. My girl Aura uses the Petmate crate which is plastic. This kennel breaks down into two pieces. If she just pressed her back against it it would fall right apart and she would be free. Which crate is best for travel? I have a truck and the Petmate crate travels easily for me. I just break it down into two pieces which sit inside of eachother and throw them in the bed of the truck and off I go. Before that I used a folding metal crate. Our other car is an SUV with plenty of room although this will not fit into the trunk of a Honda Accord. Final thoughts on German Shepherd Crates: Crates should always be a happy and safe place for your dog. Never use the crate as a punishment. When I had puppies, they would fight over who got to use the crate and these days my 8 year old German Shepherd goes in and out of her crate several times per week whenever she feels like it. Crates are also amazing tool for potty training puppies. Size and Space — One of the biggest considerations when buying a dog crate for your German Shepherd is size. The American Kennel Club writes on their website that the typical height range for a German Shepherd is 22 to 26 inches. The breed can weigh between 50 and 90 pounds. Durability and Material — German Shepherds are powerful, strong dogs that serve commendable purposes in society, such as military dogs, police dogs, service dogs and more. We considered crates that have a clever design to prevent your German Shepherd from doing harm to themselves or causing damage to the crate. Portability and Weight — The type of crate that you require will likely depend on your lifestyle. If your German Shepherd is predominantly a guard dog or family dog, you may be satisfied with a stationary crate. Security and Safety Features — German Shepherds are athletically built with a lot of power. They shed all year round but tend to blow out their coat at least twice a year at the changing of the seasons. The Collapsible Crate is simple to set up — it takes less than 60 seconds to put together. My 5ft 2ins wife was able to move it around our home. It has ample ventilation thanks to the diamond-shaped holes that are designed to prevent your German Shepherd from sinking their teeth in or doing damage. It comes with a lifetime guarantee should any part prove faulty. The Revol is a collapsible crate so it offers plenty of portability and versatility. Inspired by baby industry standards, the Revol has an ergonomic design to make all elements of the crate easy to use. We can offer helloBARK! It has a zinc-plated steel paddle latch which provides a robust mechanism for added security against the toughest escape attempts. There are four additional butterfly latches, providing maximum strength and security. Impact write on their website that the small circle ventilation holes are specifically designed to prevent dogs from getting their K9 teeth in and potentially harming themselves. They only offer this coverage on their High Anxiety Crate. It has a thoughtful design with 20 ventilation holes on either side to provide adequate ventilation. However, it does come at a significantly cheaper price. Check The Price If you plan on keeping your dog crate in a room in your home with your family, you might prefer to buy an indoor crate that doubles as a piece of furniture. The wooden crate is available in three attractive different shades to blend perfectly with any interior decoration scheme. The Hexxon crate is an attractive piece of furniture that makes a real statement in your room! The crate has feet to keep it stable on any kind of surface with no risk of causing damage. The crate includes a cotton-coated bed to keep your German Shepherd nice and cozy at nights, and you even get to choose what color cushion your pet has. German Shepherds are loved for their confidence, loyalty, and protective nature, although they can be suspicious and aloof with strangers. Shepherds have a very strong work ethic and for many years have been used as working dogs by both law enforcement and the military. German Shepherds are heavy shedders, having a double coat, consisting of a thick, fluffy undercoat and an outer layer of long, water-repellent guard hairs. As mentioned above, German Shepherds are large dogs, so they need a large, heavy-duty crate that offers plenty of space. Basically, your dog must: Have sufficient space to stand up without bumping his head or ears on the top of the crate Be able to lie down flat out without catching his paws on the end or sides of the crate Be able to sit up without bumping his head or ears on the top of the crate Have enough space to turn around without catching himself on the sides of the crate As a general rule of thumb, a crate for a German Shepherd needs to be a inch crate. The crate should be 30 inches wide and 33 inches tall as a minimum. If the crate is too big, your dog might decide to use one end of his cage as a toileting area and the other for sleeping. The same basic principle applies to choosing the correct size of crate for a German Shepherd puppy. However, you can avoid the need to buy multiple crates as your furbaby grows into adulthood. Most wire crates come with puppy dividers that you can gradually move to expand the crate as your dog grows. Keeping a dog is expensive enough, and a simple crate divider panel can save you a fortune on replacement crates! Also, a crate divider is invaluable when potty training your puppy. So, you can use a crate divider to give your puppy enough space to stand up, sit down, lie down, and turn around in his crate, without leaving so much space that your pet might be tempted to use one end of the crate as a potty area. As the puppy grows and potty training is established, you can move the divider and expand the crate size. There are several kinds of dog crates available but not all styles of dog crates suit every breed of dog. Generally, German Shepherds need a heavy-duty metal crate to keep them safe and secure. For that reason, we recommend that you go with a metal wire type of crate. These crates are the strongest, most robust crates and are able to withstand the damage that a large dog can inflict. Also, wire crates provide your dog with excellent ventilation and a panoramic view of his surroundings. Although German Shepherds are not generally known as being sufferers of separation anxiety , they are very loyal dogs, and your canine companion will be more settled if he can his human family around him. Wire crates are easy to keep clean, usually containing a removable plastic tray, and most of them are collapsible, making storage and portability straightforward. German Shepherds are large dogs that have a lot of power when they choose to use it. Plastic crates are lightweight and easy to move around, usually incorporating a carrying or pull-along handle. Many plastic travel crates that are built for large dogs also have casters or wheels for easy portability. Soft Crates You can buy soft crates that are large enough for a German Shepherd. However, these comfortable dog crates are generally quite flimsy when compared with metal or plastic crates, and they can be damaged by a large dog leaning against the sides of the crate. You can sometimes use a soft crate as a travel crate if you have a small dog. Soft crates are handy in that most are collapsible for easy, space-saving storage and some can be washed for hassle-free cleaning. Furniture Crates Image Source: Foter. Furniture crates are usually made from natural wood, laminate, or rattan. These crates double as pieces of furniture, such as end tables, side tables, or nightstands. Many pet parents prefer to leave their dogs crated overnight or securely contained in a crate when mom and dad go out to work. But how long can you leave a German Shepherd in a crate? So, most dog owners prefer to have their dogs crated overnight. But is it fair to leave your dog in his crate for the whole night without a potty break? You might have noticed that your dog takes naps throughout the day, usually for an hour or two at a stretch. Older dogs and puppies might sleep more than that, but the general principle remains the same. That means that your German Shepherd sleeps for around a total of 12 hours per day. Also, when your adult dog is awake, he spends most of that time laying around doing not a lot. Puppies are the exception to that rule, enjoying bouts of frenzied activity and playtime before collapsing and falling fast asleep for a while before the next mad half-hour session of crazies begins. That means that a healthy adult German Shepherd is able to spend around 12 hours sleeping in his crate during the nighttime. What About Puppies? Cumulatively, most very young German Shepherd puppies actually spend more time asleep than their adult counterparts do. How Long Is Too Long? The first job in the morning for Shepherd owners should be to let their furry friend outside or take him for a stroll so that he can relieve himself, as well as having some exercise to stretch his legs and set him up for the day. Separation Anxiety Naturally, dogs are pack creatures that need to live in the company of other dogs to thrive and be happy. That not only leads to a stressed, miserable dog, but can also cause behavioral problems, such as constant barking, chewing, and aggression toward visitors. Fortunately, dogs are quite adaptable animals and they thrive on a routine. You can also make life more interesting for your dog by providing him with a few safe toys to play with or a little bit of company in the shape of another dog or even a cat. What A Relief! So, how long can your German Shepherd wait before he needs to pee? The good news is that large dogs, such as German Shepherds have large bladders and can, therefore, wait for longer between each pee break than toy breeds. Also, younger, healthy dogs can usually wait longer than senior dogs and those with health problems. Age is also a major consideration when it comes to pee breaks. Check out the table below to see how the time that a dog can last varies quite widely throughout his lifespan. Waiting time vs. The Best Dog Crate for Shepherds The Overview: keep scrolling to read reviews The German Shepherd working dog breed is agile, high-energy, intelligent and excels at almost anything they're trained to do. Their devotion, loyalty and intelligence often contributes to their impressive escape artists skills. If you have a German Shepherd, German Shepherd mix or a dog who suffers from separation anxiety, we highly recommend you continue reading this article. Rather than us explaining why this escape proof High Anxiety dog crate is ideal for GSDs, we've decided to share thorough testimonials written by our customers! All of these reviews have been submitted by verified customers and the only modifications to this content are the updated crate sizes in parenthesis when a size has been mentioned. What is the best dog crate for anxious German Shepherd Dogs and other escape artist pups? Well, there is no right or wrong answer to this question because as you may know, every dog is different. Fortunately, our team has the opportunity to converse with dog owners every single day and some of these customers are trainers, owners and handlers of German Shepherds. The most common Impact Dog Crate for German Shepherds is the High Anxiety crate because of its durable, welded structure and its escape-proof design. Feel free to read all of these reviews and other product reviews here! Her high anxiety Impact crate was the solution to her anxiety. Not only can she not break out, but she is calmer in her crate and loves it! If you have a pup working their way through all the crates at the pet store, stop wasting your money and buy one of these bad boys! I ordered the size inch high anxiety crate for my German Shepherd mix, Rookie. She has really bad separation anxiety. Her last crate a black wire crate from Petco was a mess. She has broke the door off was held on by carabiners after that and broke the black plastic underneath. When she would escape she would cause damage to the house that cost me thousands. So I had to miss sleep to retrieve the delivery and was unable to fall back asleep after the call. I do not have a picture in her new crate but I do have pictures of her for any size references for others, the damage she did to my boyfriends man cave when she escaped her old crate and a picture of her poor nose when she would attempt escapes out of her old crate and under her butt you can see where she destroyed that carpet as well. Crate was expensive, but it solved a problem that I had been unable to solve otherwise. My 95 lb. German shepherd puppy escaped from his conventional folding wire crate multiple times, sometimes from bending the wire structure and other times from opening the latches. Besides his being loose in the house we feared that he would injure himself during his escape as he did once when we came home to find blood on the floor and wall near his wire crate. The first Impact crate arrived with shipping damage. Impact shipped a replacement crate the same day that we called about the damage to the first crate. The second arrived in perfect condition. So far, no escape from the Impact crate. We bought the accessory covers for the door bars but have not seen reason to install it. We want to leave as much visibility for him through the door as possible. It protects our home and our dog. Excellent customer service helped added to experience. Size 42 inch crate shown. Our dog Toby is a German Shepherd that has separation anxiety and doesn't like being in a crate when no one is home for more that a couple hours. He would break out of wire crates until I would reinforce it to make it more difficult for him. Since we purchased the size inch high anxiety crate, he has met his match! The only thing he as done so far is some scratching on the inside to be expected , and tearing at a dog bed we placed inside the crate. When we are home he will go inside the crate and lay down. At least now when we leave the house with him inside his new crate, we know he will never scratch or dig his way out or it. And will not hurt himself either. I did purchase the door guards for his high anxiety crate shortly after ordering the crate but have not had to install them yet. I really like the solid construction of this crate. Once you buy this crate, you will never have to buy a cheap wire crate anymore. Like others have mentioned, I highly recommend impact crates! Size inch crate shown. This crate though expensive is worth every cent I paid for it. Apparently this sweet baby was abused with a crate or left in one for extremely long times. We had gone through 3 crates, 2 wire ones and 1HUGE hard plastic one. She managed to break out of all three. I had basically become a prisoner in my own home. I love her so much and am giving her the best life I possibly can. Size 40 inch crate shown. Mans Best Friend - Phillip S. However, she had become an escape artist. Two wire kennels and three travel crates later my family decided it was time to invest in a quality crafted kennel. After doing extensive research and talking with several trainers and K9 officers we are friends with, we chose Impact. If you want to stop worrying about your dog breaking free when you leave the house then it is well worth the investment. I would recommend an impact dog kennel to anyone. Not just because of the quality by which it is made but because the staff took the time to answer all of our questions and made sure we were getting exactly the right kennel. Uses size 42 inch crate. It exceeds expectations. My German Shepherd could break out of the front of every other crate we have had. She now only will do turns in the crate, and will not even try to escape. She is very large at lbs. Service was also great. Thank you so much. Worth the money - Elaine F. I have a German Shepherd who any time we left the house would freak and destroy crate after crate that we'd get her from Petco or Persmart. Finally I did my research, after already spending so much on wire crates I went with the high anxiety crate. I was nervous about it at first because it is a lot of money but in the end it's worth it. My pup has not escaped from the crate and she is also comfortable in there. I make sure she has treats and a nice bed to lay on while we're gone and she adapted quickly. Believe me, it's worth it if you want to stop spending money of crates in the end. This is the second Impact Dog Crate I have purchased. I have a highly anxious German Shepherd Rescue that has broken out of nearly every crate we have bought for years, sometimes hurting herself and leaving her parents worried. Being airline compliant is a much needed bonus as well. I cannot recommend this crate enough! Best on the market!!! Miracle Kennel! Worth every penny!! I have a 60lb female Anatolian Shepherd Mountain Cur mix with the most severe case of separation anxiety I have ever heard of. I have owned her for close to a year, and there have been a LOT of ups and downs in her separation anxiety training. Through her desperate attempts to escape, she has hurt herself pretty badly with strained muscles, worn down teeth, and bloody cuts. I decided to invest in this kennel because of the reviews of owners with similar dogs. And although the cost required me to be on a payment plan, every single cent of the payment is worth it. My dog cannot escape this kennel and she knows it! With her exercise and socialization routine, and some positive reinforcement training of this kennel, her anxiety has so drastically reduced that I believe she actually enjoys her kennel. Separation Anxiety - Christa So we got this crate about a month ago now. She has gone through two cages 1 was even 22 gauge steel and she ripped 2 of the bars off so we had to find something else to do. We got the size inch crate for her she is an 83 pound, female and she has plenty of room. I even sat in there with her and we both fit fine. This crate is incredibly heavy duty but surprisingly very light and easy to move with the help of another person. And the airplane rails on the sides did not come assembled, but in the box with assembly directions. The inside paint is scratched off, as expected, but the bars are not bent or disfigured in the slightest. We are exploring other options to attempt to aid her separation anxiety but the crate has done what we wanted: keep her contained and out of trouble. Yes they are very pricy crates, but they are built incredibly well and I would really recommend it! Anxious dog makes an anxious owner - Rhonda M. Impact Dog Crates is a life changer for me. My German shepherd was ruining her teeth pulling on her old wire kennel and I was so anxious knowing that as I left my house and the door bell rang, she would try like crazy to get out of the kennel. There is nothing inside the Impact Dog Crate that she can grab on with her teeth or pull on with her paws. It's awesome! I wish I had found this 2 years ago. We had been crating her in your average dog crate, until one day when we got home from work she had ripped her tooth completely out, root and all. We took her to the vet and she advised us to not use the crate for the fear of her ripping out more teeth. So we were letting her roam free in our living room and kitchen area during the day while we were at work. She destroyed our sectional couch, remote controllers, books etc. Then she started pulling trim off the walls, and eating holes through the drywall. So then we heard about these High-Anxiety crates and I will admit we were a little scared by the price at first, but I will tell you knowing that our dog is safe and not destroying our home makes it worth every penny. The crate is heavy duty, and relatively easy to move. We used to worry every second of every day when we were at work, but now our girl is safe and sound in an Impact dog crate. The customer see that was provided to me was 5 star as well. I have zero complaints with my crate or the customer service I received. Other companies should take lessons from Impact dog crates. Absolutely amazing! I have a German Shepherd who has broken out of every single cage I have bought him. The cost is very expensive and definitely made me second guess purchasing it in the first place for over a year. Delivery excellent. Very pleased WOW. .Finally a crate that works! New Years, 4th of July, storms. .We tried everything, thunder jacket, anxiety meds, you name it we tried it. No matter what we did or how many crates we bought, Albus would find a way to break out of them. He ate the garage door handle and the trim around it. We knew we had to do something bc we were afraid to leave the house for fear that he would cause serious harm to himself. I think he likes the closed in space. He would always try to squeeze into tight spaces, knocking things over. Coming from someone who was at a complete loss for what to do, this is the answer. Thank you Impact Dog Crates for helping us regain our sanity and for making a product that we can stand behind without hesitation. Saved my dog - Whitney C. I have a high anxiety German Shepherd who has noise phobia and does not do well during storms. He has jumped out of window's 5 feet off the ground and hurt himself in standard crates. I needed a way to keep him safe while I was at work. I tried a regular aluminum kennel and he ended up ripping some teeth out. Meds did not work, his anxiety overcame any effect they might have had on him. I didn't want to worry about him while I was away during the day so I purchased the high anxiety crate and it was a game changer. He is unable to get his teeth around the bars and can't tear the inside walls. I don't have to worry about his safety when I am gone anymore. He is also doing much better with his anxiety and I can leave him out of his crate during the day when storm season is over. It is totally worth the price to have a safe and happy dog! Great Product - Joyce G. We adopted the most expensive free dog that should have been named Houdini. Not only could she open sliding glass doors and climb fences but she totally destroyed the standard plastic crates. Other than the severe separation anxiety she suffers from she is the perfect dog. This was our last option to be able to keep her. I wish we would have made the purchase in the beginning. This crate is perfect. She is a 2 year old German Shepherd and the size inch has plenty of room. We leave the door open when we are home and she goes in on her own. Excellent product. I never thought we would spend this much money on a crate but it has made our lives so much easier because we do not have to worry about what we will find when we get home. He is one strong pup and has gotten out of a standard crate and then the next step up crate. He will watch you close it and figure out how to open it or just bend the bars. He has been through several training courses but does not like to be alone and it one smart dog. I bought this crate a few months ago and he has not gotten out. There are a few teeth marks on the inside so I know he has tried. It took only 2 days to get him used to it as it is a little more closed up than a regular crate but after the 2 days he went right into like he did the other ones. When I read reviews when I was looking at these I thought there was a place to upload pictures but I am not seeing that now or I would upload one. Perfect - Kathleen C. I bought the High-Anxiety size inch crate for my German-Australian shepherd mix. He tore apart every other crate, and a bathroom - door and floor - before we had this crate. He took to this new crate immediately and is very content when inside. We also have a tough bed that he can't destroy and it fits well inside the crate with room for water and food dishes if needed. The only 'con' - and it is an obvious one - is that the crate is HUGE! There are two handles on top but unless you are very strong and near six feet in height it will take at least two people to pick it up. Also the measurements for the shipping crate are a bit off and we ended up taking our front door off to get the unboxed crate inside. However I am very happy, and so is our dog, that we have this crate and it gives us all great peace of mind when leaving him home alone or when maintenance is being done on our home. Durable and inescapable - Clay V. We purchased a size size inch crate for our new 30 pound lab-shepherd mix. It didn't take her long to chew through a metal wire crate and escape, so we knew we needed the strongest crate possible. She has horrible separation anxiety and she definitely can't be left alone in the house she escaped and tore up the carpet, trim, and door of my room. We researched for a week or two before finally deciding on an Impact crate. She had to be boarded daily for almost a month while we went to work. Every other crate had reviews that I just couldn't look past. Everything from "my dog escaped" to "my dog is severely injured. If you're thinking that it's a lot of money for a crate, well you're right. But you get what you pay for, and this crate is top notch. She has scratched up the door and bars with her claws and teeth, but the structural integrity of the door is unaffected. Also nothing has chipped or broken off aside from the paint so she can't injure herself. Honestly I understand why they offer their replacement plan, because l highly doubt they have ever had to replace one. If you have a high anxiety dog, please take it from me and buy this crate. People literally don't believe that she needed it but then we show them the crazy scratch marks on the door and they understand. You won't be sorry with your purchase. If these escape artist dogs remind you of your own pup, we highly recommend chatting with our team to learn more about this High Anxiety crate and which size would best fit your dog. If you would like to read more Reviews of all of our crate models and accessories, click here! Buy a larger crate so that it continues to comfortably house your dog as they grow. A full-grown German Shepherd needs space to stand, sit, lie down, and stretch. Not to mention, turn around with ease. And most inch crates come with a wire divider for keeping your German Shepherd puppy in a smaller area as they potty train. This can cause joints and muscles to stiffen. An area too small can lead to tightness and stiffness, increase anxiety, and cause long-term joint damage if excessively used. But an area that is too large just takes up extra space. Contrary to what others may say, a puppy or smaller dog will go into a larger crate. You can easily use this metal divider to block off an area that is too large if it bothers you or your German Shepherd. All of the wire kennels on this page are recommended since they have free dividers included except the heavy-duty cage model. Is crating your German Shepherd cruel? For some owners who are new to the notion of crate training, confinement in such a small space might seem cruel or even a punishment. But free-roaming dogs in the wild seek shelter in small, covered spaces for safety from predators and environmental harm. Using the natural history of wild dogs, you can see how German Shepherds can easily be trained to view their kennel or crate as a safe cave or their own private home away from home. You can help them maintain this cozy space since you can take most crates with you wherever you and your German Shepherd go. Your German Shepherd puppy can even be trained to sleep quietly in their crate at night, giving them a warm spot that keeps you from accidentally tripping over them if they were left out and got under your feet. Do you want to learn how to easily crate train your dog using toys? The most common crate varieties are wire crates, plastic crates, and metal reinforced crates for escape artists. Wire crates are great for dogs to travel in or for camping. Keep in mind that wire crates are larger, so they tend to need more space for set-up. I prefer wire crates, as they fold flat for storage and are more economical to purchase. They also tend to last longer and stand up to the wear and tear of life with a German Shepherd. Plastic crates may feel more secure for your dog, as the walls are largely solid compared to the wire crates. But, plastic crates large enough for a German Shepherd tend to be more expensive, not last as long, and are better suited to short times during travel than for more frequent home use. Both plastic and metal crates can be strengthened using strategically placed zip ties to prevent rambunctious puppies and adult dogs from pushing apart the frame. For an escape artist, a rugged not collapsible reinforced preferably welded metal crate is best. These cages are humane when used for short periods of time to keep your German Shepherd from escaping and hurting themselves while unsupervised. They are bulky and need more space than wire or plastic crates, but will last you a lifetime. Some owners are inclined to choose a large-sized crate to give the dog lots of room, but they fail to remember to also make sure they have a wire divider to make the sleeping space smaller. Always opt for a wire divider that you can adjust and move as your German Shepherd grows into her larger crate. Once your dog is fully potty trained a larger crate will prove more useful as they have more room to stretch out and enjoy their comfortable private bedroom. Crate Location I advise placing the crate in an area of your house where both you and your German Shepherd can access it effortlessly at any time needed. I usually place a crate right beside my bed when I have a new puppy. I set another crate in a corner of my living room where I spend the most time during the day working or relaxing. Using two different locations for a crate is not only convenient, but it gives your German Shepherd the opportunity to find a spot away from family and noise should they want time to themselves. In particular, you must immediately clean their space when they soil the area or are sick in their crate. Step 1: Remove their toys, beds, blankets and all of the objects from their crate. Set the items to the side and wipe down their toys, cleaning them regularly with pet-safe disinfectant if they have any urine or feces on them. You can find some great toys for German Shepherds to replace the old, worn-out ones. Step 2: Wash their soft bedding materials. This is especially important if they have an accident in the crate, and it should be done as soon as possible to avoid cross-contamination to other items in the crate or house. Be sure the bedding is fully dry before replacing it back into the clean crate. Your dog should also have a German Shepherd bed to relax on when outside of their crate, and a crate mat or pad when inside their crate. Step 3: Dry the crate outside or in a well-ventilated area. I suggest washing the crate outside, with your garden hose. If you are unable to go outside, choose a room with tile floors that are easier to mop up, such as your kitchen, bathroom, or mud and laundry room. The room needs proper ventilation so that the cage can dry quickly. Use clean cloth towels or paper towels to wipe down the parts to help dry the crate quicker. Step 4: Finding the right cleaning solution. This is critical as some cleaning solutions are harmful and can make your dog sick if they are exposed to it. Never clean their crate with ammonia because ammonia tends to smell like urine to dogs. You could unintentionally encourage them to urinate in the crate if you clean it with ammonia. Here are a couple of good do-it-yourself cleaning solutions that you can mix up at your own home to save some money. Place the following in a spray bottle to make your own homemade crate cleanser: Squirt one part dish detergent to ten parts of warm water Use half a cup of white vinegar to one-gallon warm water Add half a cup of bleach to a gallon of cool water Always take safety precautions when mixing your own chemicals at home. Your GSD needs to have a soft place to rest, enough space to relax, and a comfortable temperature. Place the crate in an area out of busy zones. A quiet corner in the living room is good. Make sure the area has plenty of ventilation, but no cold drafts. Use a cover if needed. Use treats and praise when your dog is in the crate. Let your dog enjoy his meals in the crate while supervised. This creates a positive feeling with the kennel. Offer your dog a special toy to chew or play with when in the kennel. Make sure the toy is safe and supervise his toy time. Their collar can get caught between the bars or wire and cause significant damage to your dog! Use a PetSafe Breakaway Collar to prevent any unforeseen accidents! The breakaway collar stops your dog from hanging themselves by releasing them automatically. Dogs are more agile in their crates than you could imagine, especially puppies, and they get themselves in problems with their collars when you least expect it. Hit, kick, or strike the crate. With or without your dog in it, this creates a fear of the crate. Keep your dog in its kennel for more time than needed. Long times in a kennel can cause anxiety. Leave the kennel in the sun. Your home can get hot enough to cause overheating problems if left in a sunny spot for too long! Your dog could have problems eating the treat or tear the toy and eat it. Yell at your dog when in the kennel or use the area as punishment. A kennel is a safe spot, not a bad zone. German Shepherds are natural den animals source. They prefer and want a safe place to hide or even relax. A crate provides both safety and relaxation for your pet. They prevent unforeseen accidents, like the destruction of your property. Or worse, harm to your dog from staying alone all day left to their own devices. Items to consider when buying your dog a crate: Escape artists need a model made from solid steel While the average dog can get away with a heavy gauge wire kennel Remember, the lower the number on the wire gauge, the greater the strength. They are a great tool for house training and traveling. Need an easy step-by-step guide to teaching your German Shepherd to love their new den? Then follow this helpful guide to crate train your German Shepherd to help save yourself time and stress of using a kennel with your dog. Answering these questions before buying allows you the best outcome: Will you need the crate to be lightweight enough to take for holidays or hotel travels? Does your German Shepherd escape traditional wire kennels? Will you need a crate with two doors to allow multiple entrances? What size will you and your dog feel most comfortable with? Crates are also useful training aids to help puppies learn to be left alone or to encourage house training — but crates should never be used as a punishment. The best crates for a German Shepherd are:. Proper ventilation , large door openings with low thresholds, and rounded corner clips make iCrate a safer crate experience for your Buy on Amazon Click HERE to check the latest price on Amazon This folding metal dog crate is ideal for GSDs because of its roominess and convenience for the owner. You can start small and let the crate grow with your pup. Size This crate is 33 inches tall and 30 inches wide. The variable length is 48 inches, making it ideal for large breeds. With most male German Shepherds growing up to 26 inches, the inch height of this crate is more than enough. The quoted sizes of dog breeds are only rough guidelines, and every dog is different. As an example, my female German Shepherd is 27 inches tall, making her taller than the average male. Material Your German Shepherd will not feel alone or isolated thanks to the metal wire material on all sides. At the same time, the wire will keep him confined, which is important while he learns to accept the crate as his personal space. In your presence, it is a different story. The two doors, alongside a design that maximizes visibility, allow your German Shepherd to feel socially integrated while being in his crate. The negative of this could be that grounding your dog in his crate might not be as effective when he loves his crate so much. Convenience Lastly, we must consider the convenience of the product for you. Yes, your German Shepherd will be comfortable and feel at home, especially during crate training , but will this crate be awkward to assemble or maintain? If you go by the aggregate of over , reviews and ratings on Amazon, the answer is a resounding no. If you were previously skeptical of the fact that the crate, despite being big, is perfect for your new German Shepherd puppy, the 4. This mess-proof dog crate is great for large breeds and allows you to start working with them right away without having to put in a lot of effort upfront. A typical dog mom might have to commit to a difficult crate-cleaning routine when crating her puppy, but this crate allows you to skip that hard work. Size This crate is the same height as the previous option and gives a good 6 to 7 inches of free space for your fully grown GSD to stand. The length of this crate is also 48 inches, which might seem too big for a puppy. So, to make your pup feel safe and secure and speed up his toilet training, you need a divider for this crate. Most people project their own psychology onto their pets and assume more room is always preferable. This is okay for height; a dog can be comfortable in a room with a ceiling nine times his height. However, when it comes to the width and breadth of the crate area, your German Shepherd puppy needs a smaller space to feel comfortable. If you get this crate, make sure to separately purchase a crate divider to help your puppy feel snug in it. Material This crate is the same metal wireframe variety as the previous one, albeit with better accolades. Over 19, reviews have set its average sturdiness rating at 4. You can find my recommendations for the best crate pads for German Shepherds here , something significant for a breed predisposed to hip and elbow dysplasia and osteoarthritis. Other Features You can quickly clean the plastic pan that comes with this dog crate by pulling it out and wiping it down. The easy cleanup feature might become useless when your dog is disciplined enough to keep his crate clean, but there are other lifelong areas of convenience to think about. Convenience Accessories can be added to the crate to decorate and add practical fun to the space. The overall rating for this crate, from an average of over 18, reviews, is 4. The product is a bundle in which the crate is only one part. This crate kit comes with a crate cover, a dog bed to go inside the crate, and food and water bowls that can be easily attached to the inside of the crate. Material The crate itself is a collapsible metal wire crate. As you may have read in the beginning, metal is the perfect material for German Shepherds, which is why most options on this list will feature metal. Also included is a fleece bed, which helps your German Shepherd stay warm and snug inside the crate. Adding to the coziness is a polyester crate cover that you can use at night to minimize distractions and help your German Shepherd go to bed. With a inch length and a inch width, the crate matches the sizes of the previous two options, including the same height of 33 inches. Like my other two recommendations, the crate hits the maximum mark for most large-breed dog crates and gives even taller German Shepherds a good inches of headspace. Other Features While not unusual, the crate does include a double-door option. I find it worth mentioning here because not every product in this article checks this mark. It is also collapsable, again, like many other metal wire dog crates. Ultimately, the unique feature of this product is its convenient bundling, which also makes for great value for money. When a manufacturer warns customers not to force their dogs into the crate or use it as a punishment tool, I cannot help but give it a few points. The product has also received praise for durability with a 4. This is well-differentiated from the accolades of other products here. Convenience Finally, no product review is complete without looking at its convenience for you. For example, we know that a few other options on this list are easy to clean, thanks to their respective removable trays. However, this product has a 4. They can grow from 22 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh anywhere from 50 to 90 pounds. Male German Shepherds are usually heavier than females, and some individuals could fall slightly outside of this size range. The best way to estimate how big your puppy will be when fully grown is to take a look at his parents. The size of your dog crate should be big enough for your dog to: Turn around completely. Sit up without crouching his head. Lie on his side with paws stretched out. Especially if they have a larger, or male German Shepherd. Is Big Always Best? You might even need to go for a slightly larger option. For some people, it is a matter of space. The bigger the dog crate, the harder it can be to find space for it in your home. However, a crate that is too big for your dog can be problematic for other reasons. If you are housetraining your dog, he may use half of a big crate as a toilet, rather than using it just for sleeping. Crate training your dog will be much easier if you choose one that fits him properly. Too small and they will be uncomfortable and unhappy. Too big and they will soil their space. Puppies grow quickly. The best solution is to start with the size you think you will eventually need when your GSD is fully grown. Many crates come with a crate divider that you can use until they are an adult. Why Use a Divider? Which means I get a lot of use out of dividers for the first few months. Using one will allow you to tailor your crate to the exact size you need. And to change it accordingly as your dog grows! They do this crate 48 inch version, which I have been really happy with and ours has lasted for years. They do dividers to fit for when your pup is young, and they stand up to scratching and wipe down easily if accidents happen. We line ours with vet bedding, but you can also find more traditional dog beds to fit. It comes in 42, 46, or 48 inch sizes. This option is built on top of locking wheels. So, it is easy to move around your home, especially if you will struggle to lift a heavy crate! It has a slide out plastic tray for easy cleaning. It is easy to fold down and store, so would make a great travel crate. It has three doors, so you can put it pretty much anywhere and your dog can still use it. However, this is one we would recommend as a travel option only, especially if your GSD is prone to chewing or digging. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site s , as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. Durability and Security Durability and security go hand in hand because only a strong cage can hold your dog. You can keep from wasting your money again by paying more attention to durability. Look for tough materials steel is always the best and look at how its pieces are connected. Portability This may or may not be a big issue for you. However, portability will be very important if you are the kind of person who likes to take their dog on trips and outings. A cage with wheels is an obvious plus here, but you should also think about the weight. Size and Shape Speaking of size and shape, we have already given you the recommended size parameters for a German Shepherd crate. As for shape, it just needs to fit the space in which it will be placed. For instance, if you have a small backseat, you should opt for a long cage with less width, as this will be much easier to fit in your car. Drainage and Cleaning Most dogs will soil their crates from time to time, and you have to be prepared for that. However, we have seen that not all dog crates have them. Otherwise, we recommend you get something with slots and trays like our winner and our runner-up. Comfort Last but not least, we come to the factor that matters most to the dog. If the dog is not comfortable in the crate, every hour spent there will be miserable. It is hard to pin down guidelines for this factor, as every dog has different preferences. However, the best thing is to keep the receipts and packaging when buying a dog crate. That way, you can return the product if your dog finds it uncomfortable. Security Did you know that many dogs actually feel safer in a den environment? Many dog breeds prefer enclosed areas when they are trying to get away and relax. A dog crate is a private and secluded space for your German Shepherd to do just that. However, when training your pup, you must use positive reinforcement to get him to look at his crate in this way. Safety An adult German Shepherd and a German Shepherd puppy can get into trouble when left unsupervised at home. Crate training is a good way to keep your pup confined, relaxed, and out of trouble until you return home. House Training One of the biggest advantages of crate training for dogs is having the opportunity to help with proper house training. A dog will not want to soil their den. Naturally, they want to keep it a clean place for them to be in. So, it is a good place to keep your puppy for short periods of time when you are potty training. Dog Crate Training Tips When it comes to crate training your dog, the American Kennel Club stresses that crate training is not imprisonment. Rather, it provides your pup with a safe and secure space where they can relax and calm down any feelings of anxiety they may be experiencing. Choose the right crate Crate training starts with choosing the right crate. With all the information and recommendations we have listed in this article, it should be easier to narrow down your choices. Wire crates are popular for most dogs; however, if you plan on traveling, you want to find an enclosed crate that is durable and easy to transport. Maintain the right mindset When training your pup, you both have to have a calm and relaxed mindset. This is a place they need to learn to want to go to, so if you train them while they are calm, they will associate their crate with a place of rest. You can purchase a dog bed or lay down blankets or towels to make the crate a cozy space. However, if your dog gets bored or agitated, you may find them chewing on these. So, you want to watch for this. Offer treats When training, positive reinforcement helps. Offer them treats or their favorite chew toy when it is time to go into the crate. Having these items also may help keep them in their crate for longer by making it a more enjoyable experience. Especially if you would rather avoid lots of crying! They still need to be able to go to the bathroom, eat, and have ample playtime. Stretching, walking, and playing outside are all activities they will enjoy after crate time. We also hope that you will be able to make the best choice for you and your German Shepherd. In many ways, your dog will view that crate as its territory. With all that your dog does for you, you owe it to them to give them the best territory that you can get. FAQ At this point, you should be a little more familiar with these products. However, a person can always learn a little more. Because the German Shepherd is a pretty large breed, you must get a large crate for them. Forcing someone to stay in the same position for hours on end is considered torture, both legally and morally. In general, the long side of the crate should be at least inches. Of course, is better, but 40 inches should be good enough. The shorter side can be as small as 28 inches, but that is a bare minimum. The answer to this will depend on the nature of your dog. Again, this is a large and powerful breed, but they also tend to be very smart and obedient. If you have a dog that reacts badly to confinement, you will need something a little stronger to contain them. Dogs like this will fling themselves against the doors, grab the bars with their teeth, and seek any opening through which they can wriggle. Thus, you have to go the extra mile for them. On the other hand, dogs that have a calmer nature can make do with a less durable crate like our first alternative product. Can I Modify These Crates? As long as you do so with care, you should be able to modify any of these crates as needed. We bring this subject up because all of these products have flaws, and you might want to correct those flaws. For instance, you can use padded steel wires to tie the walls of a folding cage together. Whatever you choose to do, keep the safety and comfort of your pet foremost in mind.

This way, the dogs receive one on one care, as well as the love attention that only comes from being in a family environment. We learn their likes, dislikes, and temperament and can address any illnesses or behavior problems quickly. They live indoors with our own pets, as they are our very own! We have many wonderful Boxer dogs available for adoption. An adoption donation fee is required to adopt a rescued Boxer. Most of our Boxers come from high kill shelters. Some of our rescue Boxers were picked up as strays by Animal Control. Some of them have been surrendered by their owners due to divorce, death, financial problems, etc. If you are interested in adopting from our rescue, please fill out an Adoption Application today. We thoroughly screen applicants and check references. Please feel free to browse through our available dogs! Everyone I was in contact with was so very nice, understanding and immediately became good friends… I cannot begin to express the gratitude I have for Blue Ridge for putting the three of us together. Alan B A few months ago, my husband and I decided we were ready to open our home up to another boxer. After looking through the available males section we found him. Ruger is a fawn boxer with a little white smudge on his nose. He is also a three-legged boxer…. He has become such an amazing part of our family. We adopted Juneau aka Chrysler four years ago. He has since earned his UKC novice agility title, starred in a local commercial and just recently earned his first leg toward his AKC Novice agility title! Juneau took first place with a perfect score and a course time of .He is the best dog and we can never thank BRBR enough! Sign up for BoxerBriefs to get news delivered right to your mailbox! Get them early for holiday gifts! We are an organization dedicated to the rescue and adoption of Boxers in the metropolitan-Atlanta area, and to provide support and education for Boxer owners. We are operated and managed by a group of dedicated volunteers, and we are funded by adoption fees, fundraisers, and gifts from generous donors like you! Atlanta Boxer Rescue, Inc. If you are interested in adopting a Boxer in Atlanta, you've come to the right place. Take a moment to learn about the Boxer breed, including some of its history. When you are ready to move forward, familiarize yourself with everything you need to know before you adopt. Some Frequently Asked Questions are answered on our site as well. We strive to support your adoption to make it a success for you and your new Boxer friend. All of our Boxers have had a check-up with a veterinarian, been spayed or neutered, and brought up-to-date on vaccinations. We have also done our best to evaluate our Boxers for temperament, socialization, and house-breaking. We are always looking for great volunteers to help us. If you are interested in being a foster home for a Boxer in need, thank you! The number of Boxers that we can save depends on the number of willing volunteers like you. Please complete our Foster Application or contact us for more information. We have a lot of resources to help you. Sign up for our newsletter , contact us about any questions or concerns you might have, or seek comfort if you've lost your Boxer friend. We can't do this without you, so please consider a donation or a purchase from the ABR Store!

Any puppies that qualify as a German Shepherd Mix are a cross between a German Shepherd and another dog breed. In a mixed breed, you can get any mix of characteristics in the parent breeds. German Shepherds tend to be strong-willed, intelligent, playful, and loyal. To get a full idea of what to expect in your puppy, be sure to ask the breeder about the other dog breed in the cross and check out the mother dog in-person to get a general idea about size and temperament. On the German Shepherd side, you have an independent dog with high intelligence and a playful spirit. German Shepherds make great family pets and are born protectors. Because of their protective instinct, they can be suspicious of strangers. Socialization early and often can help curb this suspicion and make them more open to new people and situations. German Shepherds also tend to be loving and have a lively personality. The German Shepherd Mix can have any or all of these characteristics plus any characteristics from the other parent breed in the mix. Before buying a German Shepherd Mix puppy and bringing them home, be sure to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed. If the puppies are being family-raised around children, you should be able to get an idea of how they will do in a family setting that includes children. The German Shepherd is a moderately adaptable working dog that was bred to guard, work, and herd. They do not tend to do well in apartments and are best-suited for houses with yards. GSDs prefer to be with their families and do not like to be alone. They also tend to prefer cooler climates as they are sensitive to heat. With a German Shepherd Mix, you could get a moderately adaptable dog that is just like a purebred German Shepherd. You could also end up with a dog that is more like the other parent breed. Talking with the breeder about the other parent breed can give you a good idea of what to expect. German Shepherds can be prone to elbow and hip dysplasia. You will need to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross to get an idea of any other health concerns to be aware of in your German Shepherd Mix. Health screenings, clearances, and the genetic history of the parents can help allay concerns about potential health conditions. On the German Shepherd side, training and obedience classes are highly recommended for novice dog owners. Although GSDs are highly intelligent, pick up on things quickly, and train fairly easily, they can be stubborn with an independent streak. Regardless of the other parent breed in the cross, you should be prepared to enroll in obedience and training classes with your German Shepherd Mix. The experience will be beneficial to both you and your puppy and will also offer some opportunities for socialization. You will still want to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross to get an understanding of what to expect during the training process. Professional grooming a few times a year and the occasional bath is also recommended. Regardless of the coat type, your German Shepherd Mix will need to have their nails trimmed monthly and their teeth brushed regularly. Not every dog will allow you to do this, so try to get a tooth brushing session in at least a few times a week to reduce tartar buildup. This will help prevent dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease. Plus, it will help cut down on bad breath! German Shepherds tend to have a high activity level. They were bred to run, herd, guard, and protect, so they are used to working and having a job to do. They are definitely not a lazy dog breed! Be sure to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix. You will still want to go in prepared for a high energy dog with the understanding that your German Shepherd Mix puppy may have an activity level closer to the other breed in the cross. If both are high energy dogs breeds, expect to end up with a high energy dog. A German Shepherd is a large dog breed that generally weighs between 55 and 90 pounds. They also usually stand between 22 and 26 inches tall at the shoulders. The other dog breed in the cross could result in a smaller or larger German Shepherd Mix. A German Shepherd generally lives for years. You should be able to expect a similar range in your German Shepherd Mix, but the other dog breed in the cross could affect this range. Featured German Shepherd Mix Article. Mixed Breeds By Meg Marrs 11 min read March 13, 70 Comments K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. The German shepherd breed is generally considered one of the most intelligent, dedicated, loyal, and family orientated companions available in the doggy world. Throwing in a mix to this breed just strengthens and enhances these naturally appealing traits. Golden Shepherd German Shepherd x Golden Retriever Mix The golden shepherd is a golden-haired beauty that will definitely win your heart with those soulful eyes. This golden retriever and German shepherd mix is an affectionate sweetheart who thrives on one-on-one interaction with her owners and especially adores the tiny human variety. This makes the golden shepherd the perfect family-with-kids choice. Both retriever and shepherd parents love to eat, so make sure you keep this marvelous mix at a healthy weight. The best of both doggie worlds are all rolled up into this one adorable and energetic bundle of joy. This pug and shepherd breed is an extremely loyal companion, loves his human family, exhibits impressive intelligence, and serves as an alert guard dog. Labrashepherd German Shepherd x Labrador Mix The Labrashepherd also known as a Sheprador is a calm, loving and even-tempered animal with a touch of the shyness from the German shepherd parent shining through when he is presented with new situations. Labrador retrievers have a kind and happy demeanor which definitely shines through in this canine cross. This German shepherd Labrador retriever mix is gloriously beautiful and loves a good play session in the park. Siberian Shepherd or Gerberian Shepsky German Shepherd x Siberian Husky Mix A post shared by German Shepherd Husky Mixes germanshepherdhuskymixes This exquisitely handsome boy is a German shepherd husky mix that will have you falling over your feet when he looks at you with that one baby blue. Love at first sight for sure. And the bonus? He loves you just as fiercely. Make sure these energized pups have plenty of exercise, puzzle toys, and activities to provide mental stimulation. Shollie German Shepherd x Collie Mix A unique combination of the collie and German shepherd gives us this gorgeous designer breed. She is amazingly even-tempered temperament, very eager to learn, and easily trained through basic obedience training. Be prepared to groom the German shepherd collie mix every day though, as those locks are relatively high maintenance. Shepweiler or Rottweiler Shepherd German Shepherd x Rottweiler Mix Shepweilers are immensely protective of their owners, family, and surroundings and make excellent guard dogs. Well-muscled, protective dogs who can always be found at your side? Sounds good to me! The German shepherd poodle mix needs your constant companionship and will follow wherever you may lead. The poodle breed genes are relatively dominant in this dog, resulting in the somewhat curly fur coat. What a striking and intimidating doggo. This breed is a cross between a domesticated German shepherd and a genuine wolf. Please keep in mind that these animals are illegal to own in certain areas, so please research carefully to avoid any heartbreak should you not be able to keep him legally. Designer breeders for a cross as unique as this one can be challenging to come by. With a sensitive temperament and above average hearing, you have a guard dog of indisputable qualities. These dogs are natural hunters, so it will be wise to keep him separate from other small pets like cats, rabbits, and hamsters. He is super-friendly but an excellent protector. He does, however, require intensive training, as he loves a challenge and can often be considered a little stubborn. This dog is an interesting mix of German shepherd and the Alaskan malamute. This is one amazingly beautiful animal. They possess the best of both breeds in strength, loyalty, friendliness, and trainability. And such a cutie to boot! Almost like having a teenager in the house, these shepherd-type dogs will test your patience and push the boundaries, so training is vital. These shepherd pit sweeties are sure to appreciate a game of fetch with their favorite human! Innocence aside, the German shepherd pit bull mix is a powerful animal with a high energy level and training is thus non-negotiable. German shepherd pit bulls need a firm, strong, but loving owner and handler. New Shep German Shepherd x Newfoundland Mix A post shared by Sadie Sanderson resolutedogtraining This breed is an interesting mix of the Newfoundland and German shepherd, forming a giant powder-puff who loves water! Well, space of course! This is a giant dog and needs plenty of room to run off all that excess energy. This behemoth is a loyal, loving, and protective, yet intimidating watchdog, probably due to its sheer size. But be honest — what a cutie pie! But beware, do not leave this puppy to his own devices — you might not particularly like the end results! He craves constant attention and will happily be your permanent side-kick. These canine cuties would benefit from an active family. There you go German shepherd lovers and fans. Please leave a comment on what you think the best German shepherd mixed breed out there is, or share your own cross-breed companion that we might have missed! And, if you have your own GSD or GSD-mix at home, make sure to check out our guide to the best dog toys for german shepherds as well as our piece on the best dog food for german shepherds too! What are the specific guidelines for adopting a German Shepherd mix? Good breeders will only sell to a family with a yard and German shepherd experience, as German shepherd mixes need plenty of space for these dogs to run around freely to get exercise. German shepherd mixes as well as purebred German shepherds should also be owner primarily by those who have experience with the breed, as German shepherds are naturally prone to anxiety and need an experienced, confident handler. The breeder should meet our breeder checklist, have been in business for several years, and their puppies should be well socialized. How much does it cost to adopt a German shepherd mix? Are there any health issues associated with German shepherd mixes? If a German shepherd mix is not from a good breeder, then there may be health problems. German shepherds are prone to a number of different genetic health conditions. The most common health concerns include hip, elbow, and joint dysplasia, cancer, epilepsy, hip dysplasia, narcolepsy, and eye problems. Are German shepherd mixes active? While canine crosses can take on any combination of traits from either of their pooch parents, German shepherds require plenty of daily exercise. GSDs have a high activity level and need to be kept busy mentally and physically. Not all German shepherd mixes will need vigorous exercise per day, but you should have the capacity to take on an active furry friend just in case. What is a German Shepherd mix? A German shepherd mix is a breed resulting from the combination of the German shepherd with other popular dog breeds. These dogs are medium to large in size, and can vary in appearance based on what breeds they inherit traits from. German shepherd mixes do not always look entirely like the German shepherd, as they could also take after their other dog breed parents. How should you train a German shepherd mix? The best way to approach training a German shepherd mix is to provide lots of training sessions focused on positive reinforcement. These pups can be fairly sensitive and eager to please. Thankfully, most GSD mixes are super smart and can master just about any trick with a little time and practice. Some of the best German shepherd mixes around. Which one was your favorite? Have you ever met any of these cuties in real life? Let us know in the comments below! Like it? Share it! The breed is well proportioned and strong with a sturdy, muscular, slightly elongated body that has a light but solid bone structure. The head should be in proportion to its body and have a little bit of a rounded forehead. The nose is most often black, but blue or liver colors still do sometimes occur. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite. Its eyes are dark and almond-shaped but never protruding. The ears are wide at its base, pointed, upright, and turned forward. However, it is natural for German Shepherd puppies under about six months to have ears that droop slightly. It also has a bushy tail that reaches below the hocks and hangs down when resting. There are three varieties of the German Shepherd: double coat, plush coat, and longhaired coat. It has a double coat made-up of a thick undercoat and dense, slightly wavy or straight outer coat. Most German Shepherd dogs have tan and black or red and black hair, medium in length and tend to shed all year round. There are some other, more rare color variations such as solid black, solid white, liver and blue. The white coat version is recognized as a separate breed by some breed clubs and is called the American White Shepherd. A piebald color has also occurred and is now being called a Panda Shepherd. Discover more about our German Shepherd puppies for sale below! Disposition The German Shepherd is an intelligent and versatile breed. The breed requires an active lifestyle and makes for an ideal companion, protector, and guard dog. Very devoted to its family and home and usually maintains a suspicious demeanor around strangers. German Shepherds can be dominating and assertive towards other dogs, though normally friendly with other pets in the home. Therefore, it is important to begin training your dog beginning as a puppy in order to avoid negative behaviors later. Exercise This breed is very active and athletic. It requires a lot of physical and mental exercise. Without the proper amount of exercise, it can become frustrated and develop negative behaviors. Participating in canine activities such as agility, herding, tracking, and diving is great exercise and fun for the dog. Training Puppy socialization and training are critical, as well as continuing obedience training to ensure the puppy will become a well-mannered adult. The German Shepherd is a highly intelligent companion and extraordinary worker. Use consistent and positive reward-based training for best results. Grooming The German Shepherd sheds regularly and is a heavy seasonal shedder. As a result, it is best to brush them daily. You only need to bathe them when necessary, however, as over bathing can cause skin irritation from removal of oil on their skin. Check their ears and trim their claws regularly. Origin The German Shepherd Dog originated in Karlsruhe, Germany from longhaired, shorthaired, and wire-haired local herding and farm dogs in the mids. Its now famous qualities of intelligence, agility, speed, stealth, and courage were developed not in a police or military academy but in the sheep pastures of s Germany. The breed gained popularity in the United States during the early s due to the canine movie stars Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart. Unfortunately, because it is among the German breeds including the Dachshund it suffered a decline in popularity due to anti-German sentiment during and after both world wars. However, due to the rise of modern livestock management and the decline of herding as a dog occupation, von Stephanitz promoted his breed as an ideal K-9 worker and today is therefore the preferred breed for police and military units all over the world. See store for details on this particular puppy. American Canine Association. Showing 1 - 40 of 62 resultsPage 1 - 62 results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. Delivery can be arranged. There are 4 of nine pups to choose from, the pics say if the pup is male or.They're great additions to anyone's life due to their high.Born on June 29th, just a little over 2 months old. She's very playful and enjoys walks she's great with other dogs. She is 11 weeks old She is a Shephard and bully mix I can't keep her due to.He is neutered. Does not do well.Please Contact Cute 5 month old rescue puppy German shepherd mix. Vancouver Calm and cute puppy rescued from the streets of Mexico, His mom, a German Shepherd and 8 sibblings were tossed to the streets because mom had an affair with a non German Shepherd. Chester is a.Even at this young age, Dagger exhibits a keen.He was born on June 22nd and is 9 weeks old. He eats solid food and use puppy pads already. Winnipeg Puppies born on August 22nd. Mother is a mix of German shepherd and Great Pyrenees. Father is pure bred Kangal. The dogs are great watch and shepherd dogs as they are trained to be around farm.German Shepherd Blue heeler mix. Located in Hepworth. Mother is onsite. All puppies have been vet checked, had their 1st shots, and.They were born on June 22nd and are 11 weeks old. They eat solid food and use puppy.The mom is the bigger beige one in the photos. The dad is also completely beige. Great and knownfor being a nanie dog, a.One of their other names, the Shichon Teddy Bear refers to their.All 1st year shots, Ready for their new home. Mom is 50Lbs, Dad 70Lbs, light brown puppy is larger than black puppy who has her.Born right on our front step, these sweet-hearts have been handled from day one. Friendly and playful, each.Contact for further information. Serious enquires only please. Born July .Mom and Dad have excellent temperament and are.Mom is our family pet, quiet and calm and loves children. Ready to go home with you! Females and males available. To a good home healthy ,friendly , energetic puppies. Last male pending Rottweiler x German Shepherd mix puppies. Both parents are onsite, both are well balanced and highly intelligent. Loyal to their people, amazing with kids and

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. It is, therefore, no surprise that some breeders are starting to mix the two. Considering whether a German Shepherd Lab Mix is right for you? Read on for everything you need to know about this amazing mixed-breed dog. Lab German Shepherd Mix Overview Size — 22 to 25 inches tall and 50 to 80 pounds Coat — Medium length, double coat, color varies Shedding — Yes Temperament — Intelligent, active, and loyal, but can be wary of strangers Trainable — Highly, but prone to destructive behavior when bored Activity — Highly active needs two hours of activity per day Best For — Families and people with active lifestyles and lots of time to spend with them What is a German Shepherd Lab Mix? As these dogs are roughly the same size, the mother can be of either breed as long as she is larger than the father, to ensure against any difficulty in the birthing process. Sheprador Appearance As is the case for most mix-breed dogs, it is a bit of a gamble what you will get when these two come together. They might have the pointed ears of a German Shepherd or the floppy ears of a Labrador. There is nothing to do but wait and see. But luckily, both German Shepherds and Labradors are attractive dogs, so however they turn out they should be handsome. That said, we can make a few generalizations about the appearance of Shepradors. Size As both German Shepherds and Labradors are medium- to large-sized dogs, you can expect their mixed offspring to be the same. German Shepherds are the larger of the two and are usually between 50 and 90 pounds and 22 to 26 inches tall. Labradors are only a little bit smaller, at 50 to 80 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. So expect your German Shepherd Lab Mix to stand between 22 and 25 inches tall and weigh 50 to 80 pounds. You can narrow this range down a bit by looking at the size of the parents. Color The color of these gorgeous mixed-breed dogs is also highly variable, and you might end up with a pooch of a solid coat color, like Labs, or striking mixed coloring, like German Shepherds. A lot of this depends on the color of the Labrador parent, whether they are yellow, black, or chocolate. As a general rule, the darker the lab parent, the darker the coat of the pup. But you also get white German Shepherd Dogs, which can result in striking white Shepradors. Coat When it comes to coat length, you should expect in most cases that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will have a shorter coat, like that of a Labrador. This seems to be a dominant gene, and the vast majority of German Shepherd Lab Mixes end up with this type of coat. The dog will certainly have a double coat, as this is a feature of both breeds. The undercoat will be soft and fluffy, and the guard coat rough. This does mean that they shed—a lot. This is not the type of dog to have at home if anyone in the household suffers from allergies. Shepherd Lab Mix Puppy Lab German Shepherd Mix Character While temperament is again unpredictable with mix-breeds, both German Shepherds and Labradors are intelligent, active, and loyal dogs, so you can expect their offspring to share these traits. German Shepherds are very intelligent and have a natural protective instinct. They have a tendency to guard whatever they consider to be theirs. Labradors were originally bred as gun dogs, to retrieve the wild game of hunters. As such, they are very obedient and tend to be pleasers, and they like nothing more than spending time with their humans. As both breeds are intelligent and highly trainable, you can expect these characteristics to appear in a Sheprador. However, whether they will be a guard dog that can be aggressive with strangers, or a pleaser that is great with children, you will have to wait and see. While dogs are a mix of nature and nurture, if you want to take a Lab German Shepherd mix into a family home, or if you are a first-time dog owner, you will want to be careful about which individual dog you choose. Activity Levels However their personality turns out, you are going to have a dog with a lot of energy. These larger dogs that are used to working need around two hours of exercise each day. Their intelligence also means they get bored easily, and when they do get bored, they can have a tendency toward destructive behavior, which means digging and chewing. They do best with active owners with whom they can go walking, hiking, and running. Whether these dogs will like swimming is a coin toss. While Labradors love the water, German Shepherds are a bit more wary. But their size and adventurous nature mean they can be trained to love the water. So you have a good chance that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will be a swimmer. These dogs are loyal and love being around their humans. You will find them at their happiest and healthiest when you make them part of the family and shower them with love. Exercise Ideally, your Sheprador will need around two hours of exercise per day. This might be more than just a long walk, as their high energy levels mean they will like to run as well. They will enjoy tackling tough trails with you at their side, and the retriever nature of Labradors also means this breed is likely to enjoy a good game of fetch. Bear in mind that these dogs will need this level of exercise rain or shine, or they will become frustrated and start engaging in destructive behavior. This is not only bad for them in general, but can put excess pressure on their hips, which are also prone to issues. Intellectual Stimulation German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs are invariably highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train but also means they get bored very easily. When they do get bored, they are smart enough to find trouble, and you may come home to quite the scene. These dogs need to spend time with people to occupy their minds, and they also benefit from intellectually stimulating games. But expect them to make short work of these challenges, as they are chewers. You will be getting them new games quite often. Companionship Labradors need a lot of companionship, and this is a trait their offspring with German Shepherds are likely to share. Not only will they get bored and start acting up, but they can become depressed. Grooming Both German Shepherds and Labradors are shedders, so you can be sure their Sheprador offspring will be as well. This is just a fact of life with Shepradors. They will need to be brushed at least twice a week, and as often as once a day during the shedding seasons fall and spring. As well as brushing, invest in a good quality vacuum cleaner that has special functionality to help you pick up dog hair. These dogs are also likely to enjoy jumping up on the couch for a snuggle and a snooze. Invest in coverings and be sure your swanky vacuum cleaner has an attachment for upholstery. Their coat is not the only part of their grooming to attend to. You need to clean their teeth three times a week, with a brush or with dental treats. Finally, trim their nails every three months. This is both for their health and the health of your home, as their nails can damage your floors. For a big dog like this, it can be a good idea to take them to the vet to get their nails clipped. But if you feel confident to do this at home, check out our list of the best nail clippers. Diet German Shepherd Lab Mixes are big dogs that have lots of energy, but they also have a tendency toward obesity, which means they have to get their energy from good sources. This means high-quality protein and fats over carbohydrates. Preferably this means meals made from quality meats rather than meals or byproducts. When looking at the ingredient list, look for named meats at the first ingredient. Lab German Shepherd Mixes also benefit from novel proteins in their diet, as they can be prone to allergies. Dogs tend to develop allergies to the meats they eat the most, which often means beef and chicken. When they are puppies, Shepradors should be fed three times a day, and this should be cut down to two times a day from about four months of age. As a rule, dogs need 25 to 30 calories per pound of their weight per day, though you should watch their individual weight and energy level to see if you need to adjust their meals up or down. You can also check the label on your dog food to get a rough estimate of how much you should be feeding your Sheprador. Of course the amount will also vary depending on how often you exercise your dog. Known Health Problems While there is no limit to the number of health problems that a dog of any breed can develop, or they might not develop any at all, some dog breeds are more prone to some conditions than others. German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs have the potential to develop the health problems that are common in goth German Shepherds and Labradors. These include: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia — This is a condition where the hip and elbow joints do not develop normally and that can cause extreme pain and arthritis in later life. For more information check out our list of Glucosamine for Dogs. Progressive Retinal Atrophy — This is a group of degenerative diseases that affect the eyes and can lead to blindness. Shepradors are also prone to eat whatever is put in front of them, so you need to be conscious of what you are feeding them. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus — Poor diet can lead the stomach to dilate and expand, in turn leading to a twisting of the stomach that is life-threatening. It can block the flow of blood to the abdomen, leading to rupture of the stomach walls, and put pressure on the diaphragm thereby inhibiting the lungs. Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy — This is a condition that affects the spinal cord and leads to progressive weakness of the hind limbs, and eventually paralysis. Panosteitis — This is an inflammation of the outer surface of the long bones in the legs, resulting in a shifting lameness and making bones more susceptible to breaks. Allergies — Dogs can be born with allergies or develop them over time. Dogs often develop allergies if they eat the same foods consistently. Underactive Thyroid — The thyroid manages hormones, and an underactive thyroid is unable to secrete the required hormones. This can result in weight gain, lethargy, and cold intolerance. At this time, their energy levels will drop and they will need some changes in their diet and exercise. GSD Lab Mix Puppy But no matter how well trained they are, if they are left to get bored for too long, they can engage in some pretty destructive behavior, such as digging and chewing everything in sight. You have been forewarned. The highly assertive nature of German Shepherds means they do not respond well to domination training. They are likely to revolt when subjected to punishment. The best way to train a Labrador German Shepherd Mix is through positive reinforcement. Labradors are pleasers that love to make their humans happy. This means their offspring are also likely to feel the same way. So they will respond rapidly to training based on rewards for positive behavior. Deal with this behavior early, with specific training for dealing with children and strangers. They are very active and need lots of attention, so they need to be in households that support this. But they do great with adults and kids, so they can be a great family pet. Remember that German Shepherd Labrador Mixes need around two hours of exercise every day, so they need someone who can commit to that level of activity. But at the same time, it means they are the type of dog you can take on all of your adventures if you like hiking and trailing. They also need attention and stimulation throughout the day. If anyone in the house suffers with pet hair allergies, this is another reason Labrador German Shepherd Mixes are not the right dog for you, as they shed a lot. Consider something like a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle instead. Also, ask for medical records of the parents, to see what health conditions the pup might be prone to in the future. If you decide to adopt a mature dog, spend a bit of time with them to see what their temperament is like. History of the Breeds German Shepherd German Shepherds originated in Germany in the late 19th century as a sheep herding dog. But, because they are very intelligent, trainable, obedient, and strong, they have since moved into many different working roles including police, military, search and rescue, and disability assistance. German Shepherds can have a reputation for being aggressive, but they are more alert and wary than aggressive. They can have a tendency to become overprotective of family and territory. But if socialized and trained properly, this tendency should be highly manageable. German Shepherds are the second-most popular dog in the United States and the seventh-most popular dog in the United Kingdom. Labrador Labradors, also known as Labrador Retrievers, were initially used in Newfoundland as fishing dogs to retrieve fish that had gotten away. Because they are incredibly friendly but also intelligent and therefore easy to train, today Labradors are favored as disability assistance dogs, often helping individuals with blindness, ptsd, mobility issues and autism. Labradors are the most popular dog breed in the United States. They are intelligent and therefore easy to train, and loving and loyal, so they will quickly feel like part of the family. However, they do need a lot of exercise and attention, so adopting a Sheprador into your family is a commitment. German Shepherds have a reputation for being aggressive, but it is not really deserved. They are natural watchdogs and reserved around strangers, but they are not aggressive dogs that are likely to attack. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which means easy to control. Beagles, Poodles, Boxers, Golden Retrievers and Spaniels are all extremely friendly dogs as well, many specifically bred to be companions. They do best with active people or families who are full of people to love them. Like all dogs, they will do their best when they are cared for properly. This means training them appropriately, exercising them, keeping them mentally stimulated, and feeding them well. But these loyal pooches will repay your care and commitment with a lot of love and affection. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. German Shepherd Lab mix puppies German Shepherd Lab mix dogs are a combination of energetic friendliness and natural protection. As well trained adults they have the potential to make great herding, hunting, retrieving, therapy, service or pet dogs. German Shepherd Lab mixes are affectionate with their family, but need plenty of exercise, shed heavily, and can be destructive if left alone for long periods. That is, they have one parent of each pedigree. So there is huge variation in how they look, and no standard appearance. Some have the telltale muzzle and tall ears of the German Shepherd, others more resemble a Labrador. The color of their coat will depend on the coloring of their parents. For example, a black Lab German Shepherd mix is likely to have a dark coat, and a German Shepherd yellow Lab mix is likely to have a mid-toned coat. There are even arresting-looking white German Shepherd Lab crosses. An ultra-warm undercoat and a coarse outer coat to protect them from the elements as they work outdoors. This is because the gene for long coats is recessive and very unusual among Labs. Gathering up their lost hair will be a never-ending task! A good vacuum cleaner is essential. This might be reason enough to choose a different crossbreed if you have a busy family or someone with allergies in the home. German Shepherds are large dogs. They stand 22 — 26 inches tall at their shoulder blades, and weigh 49 — 88 pounds. Meanwhile, Labs are a medium sized breed, 22 — 25 inches tall at their shoulders, and 55 — 80 pounds on the scales. A Labrador German shepherd mix could be as petite as their smallest parent or as big as their largest parent. Your German Shepherd Lab mix could weigh anything from 55 pounds to 80 pounds. As usual, the lower end of the range is typically made up of female dogs, and the top end is dominated by the boys. They love to interact with people, show their affection, and get on well with children. Also, the German Shepherd is confident, courageous and smart. They are loyal and full of life. Furthermore, Labradors and German Shepherds are both fast learners and eager to please. German Shepherds in particular need productive ways to channel their intelligence, or they will get into mischief to stave off boredom. Your German Shepherd Lab mix could inherit any combination of the traits of their parents, which is why meeting both parents before committing to bringing home a puppy is so important. Socialization Socialization is the process of making a dog comfortable with other animals, people, places and activities. Even for breeds that are known to be friendly and easy-going, like Labradors, socialization is very important. German Shepherd Lab mixes are likely to inherit a love of people and company from both sides of their family tree. But socializing them properly as puppies will be vital to give them the confidence they need in meeting new people. German Shepherds, despite their great loyalty to their family, can be wary of strangers. So thorough socialization from puppyhood is essential, even for a mix. For instance, Socialization can involve having new people call over to the house regularly so your pup gets used to new faces and voices. It can also involve introducing your puppy to new dogs, cats, children and other animals so that they do not become fearful or territorial. A young dog in good health could require even more. They will also need human company for much of the day, and training to keep those big brains from getting bored. They are working dogs at heart. Highly motivated to learn and impress you with their ability to follow instructions. Like with any dog, training them is an ongoing commitment that lasts a lifetime. But with your ultra smart dog it should be a satisfying and rewarding one. German Shepherd and Labrador Health Magnification of health problems in pedigree dog breeds has become a well-documented problem. Labrador Health One of the biggest health problems facing Labradors today is hip and elbow dysplasia — looseness in the joints that eventually leads to painful arthritis. Another is progressive retinal atrophy, a gradual failure of the retina at the back of their eyes that can ultimately leave them blind. Also, Labs are also notoriously greedy, and prone to obesity if their penchant for snacking is indulged too often. Another less serious but common issue in Labs is ear infections. These are easily treated but may require veterinary care and frequent inspections. In addition, they are more than usually prone to: Gastrointestinal diseases.

Purebred German shepherds are also likely to follow the following standard measurements by the American Kennel Club. To be more precise, the ideal ratio of the length to the height of a purebred German shepherd is 10 to 8. However, purebred German shepherd puppies may not show such signs yet. This is because they are still far from developing them for their first six months. For example, they may not have upright tails since it straightens out through age. Any price that deviates from that is enough for suspicions. Speaking of a purebred German shepherd price, it might be helpful knowing that there are dogs with different price that resembles German shepherds. However, there are dogs that have the same appearance as well. Here are some of the dogs that are likely to possess similar trait with that of a purebred German shepherd: First up in our list is the Belgian Malinois. This dog breed is the most comparable in terms of appearance with purebred German shepherds. They have similar coats and style. King Shepherds are also similar to German shepherds, with the exception of their size and coat color. They are much bigger and muscular and only have sable as their color variation. However, Bohemian shepherds have undercoat, unlike German shepherds. Another cheaper breed is Northern Inuits. They are much larger than purebred German shepherd puppies, but a bit lighter. Their coat is typically pure white or black, with a face mask. Carpathian shepherds are not as similar to purebred German shepherds as the rest of this list, but they resemble a GSD enough to be used as a ripoff. Just like the Belgian Malinois, they will typically have black markings. There are many breeds that can look identical to the German shepherd pure breed. Testing a Purebred German Shepherd Testing a German shepherd pure breed through technical means is a surefire way to identify a purebred German shepherd. Registration certificates. Despite that, in the case of dogs from shelters, the caretakers genuinely have no documents to provide you. They might not even know where the dog came from in the first place. This leads us to try out other ways of testing purebred German shepherds. Genetic Testing Genetic testing has come a long way since its discovery. Now, there are many ways to check the details about the genes of even a dog. Most companies offering genetic testing have a whole database storing data of all the breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club. It is, therefore, recommended that you talk to your vet about it. They will naturally have more experience with blood testing purebred German shepherds than you are. Wrapping Up Purebred German shepherd is listed as one of the most lovable, and therefore, popular breed in America, and even in the world. Regardless, there are many problems with being unable to know if what you really have are purebred German shepherd puppies. We then tackled other breeds that are likely to be sold as a purebred German shepherd. Finally, you learned how you can test the legitimacy of a dog. At this point, you can easily steer away from the traps of the breeders into ripping you off your money. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. German Shepherds can have three different varieties of coat: double coat, plush coat, and long haired coat. The breed standard is the double coat, which consists of dense, straight, short hair that lies close to the body. The long haired coat is also quite common among German Shepherds that are family pets. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. The most common colouring for a German Shepherd is black and tan; however, the breed can also appear in all black. Typically the coat is predominantly tan with black facial and saddle markings. In rare instances, German Shepherds can have white, blue, or reddish brown coats. These colours are not recognized by the breed standard, but do occur periodically. In fact, the white German Shepherd is actually considered a separate breed in some areas and is called the American White Shepherd. The German Shepherd is part of the working dog classification and has a strong proportioned build. Typically, the German Shepherd is 22 to 26 inches 56 to 66 cm tall and weighs between 50 and 90 pounds 23 and 41 kg. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source It has a narrow and deep chest, and the front legs and shoulders are muscular and sloping. Its body is slightly longer than it is deep, measuring from the shoulders to the rump. Go to source German Shepherd puppies typically weigh pounds kg after the first month and will continue to grow steadily throughout their first year. By six months they will weigh approximately pounds kg. German Shepherds have very distinct pointed ears that are erect. They are long at the base and face forwards, making the shape of a triangle. As puppies, the tips of the ear may flop over slightly, but they will straighten as the dog ages. German Shepherds have a long and bushy tail that hangs down when the dog is resting. When a German Shepherd is alert or in motion, the curve of the tail is accentuated and the tail will be slightly raised. German Shepherds can be fairly aloof and reserved when first meeting new people. However, once the dog has formed a connection with their owner, they are extremely loyal. German Shepherds are usually friendly and loyal to their family, but can be protective if they feel threatened. German Shepherds are high energy dogs and they need lots of daily exercise. If a German Shepherd is left a lone for long periods of time it will likely become bored and destructive. For example, the dog may start barking, chewing things, or digging. Make sure that your German Shepherd receives at least 1 hour of exercise each day. This breed is highly intelligent and trainable. They like to have a job or task to do, and you can train a German Shepherd to do a variety of different jobs. For example, German Shepherds are often used as "working" dogs, helping with search and rescue, drug sniffing and security, as well as providing aide and assistance to the visibly impaired. This is fun and stimulating for the dog. This breed is known to herd the sheep, count them, and keep them safe. This sense of possession make them apt for guarding a family. A pet can guard when he knows what all belongs to him and what does not. This ability helps a German Shepherd to differentiate between an enemy and the family. Protection to this breed comes naturally and that's why they are known as police dogs, too. German Shepherds are fantastic with your own kids and can act strange with the strangers and other kids. If you see a dog that you think might be a German Shepherd and are curious about the breed, approach the owner and ask. It is such a cute dog. I am considering getting one. Veterinarians will be familiar with the breed standard of most dog breeds. They will be able to easily examine the physical characteristics of the dog to help with identifying the breed. A licensed breeder will be able to provide you with paperwork that proves both parents are recognized as German Shepherds by the American Kennel Club. Make sure that you always use a breeder that is licensed by the American Kennel Club. This will also help to ensure that you are purchasing a purebred dog. There are a number of applications available that can help to identify different dog breeds. In order to use the app, simply upload a photo of a dog and the app will identify the breed. Once you receive the DNA test kit in the mail, open the package and carefully read all of the instructions. The instructions will provide you with steps on how to take a DNA swab and then how to return the results to the lab for testing. The kit will likely come with two swabs. They are both to be used on the same dog. Do the same thing with each of the swabs. Place the swabs into the plastic baggies provided. Then place them in the pre-paid return envelope or box. Once sealed, mail the results to the lab for testing. Approximately three weeks after you complete the test, you will receive detailed DNA results. Are German Shepherds Dangerous? They have a strong bond with the entire family and are untrustful of strangers. Also, German Shepherds are very protective of their families and their property, so if you are entirely new to this breed, you may need to reach out for added expert advice. Purebred German Shepherds are intelligent Due to their high intelligence, they are preferred as working dogs in police departments, rescue teams, and search crews. If you think your puppy can pick up your training quickly, chances are they may have a lot of German Shepherd DNA in him! Regardless, you will need to keep them disciplined and mentally stimulated. Can They Outsmart You? Purebred German Shepherds are naturally protective and possessive German Shepherds are extremely protective and loyal dogs, especially when it comes to their families and their territory. This trait will quickly manifest itself as protectiveness when a potential enemy is approaching. That said, a purebred German Shepherd will intimidate a potential threat to its owners and their property without questions. Consult experts Another great way to check if your dog is a purebred German Shepherd or not is to ask experts, such as veterinarians or previous owners. A skilled veterinarian can give you plenty of valuable insight into this breed. They can inform you of the physical characteristics of German Shepherds and their most common traits. A breeder can also help answer any questions you may have about your German Shepherd. You will want to get a puppy from an American Kennel Club licensed breeder. A previous German Shepherd owner could grasp what a purebred dog looks and behaves like. However, this method may be unreliable, as many mixed breeds seem to look and behave like a purebred GSD would. Check the registration certificate if you have it If you purchase a purebred German Shepherd from a reputable breeder, you should get a registration certificate. Use dog identification apps Using dog identification apps is an innovative way to help you identify the breed of your dog by scanning a picture of a dog. All you have to do is to submit a picture of your pooch taken from your phone. Then these apps will do their analysis and return a short description of the breed as well as a match percentage of the breed. Of course, these apps may be a little more than a fun video game and are not as accurate as DNA tests. Besides taking a picture, you can also record a video or upload an image from your gallery. Share your results and compare them to the results of the community! Upload pictures of your favorite dog to our Social Feed and share them with other dog lovers! Have a look at the profiles and photos of other users, like and comment on posts from our dog community and filter them by date or popularity! All types of dogs are supported — mutts and purebreds, and everything in between. DogDNA Identify dog breeds by uploading a picture from your camera or photo library. We use advanced computer vision dog breed identifier technology to analyze the pictures and provide results on the possible breeds your dog could be. Conclusion Regardless of the result, your new furry friend deserves all of your love. Bon is a dog lover and a blogger. He loves spending time with dogs more than with humans. You will find him training himself for the next marathon when he is not writing. This is because there are several other dog breeds with similar characteristics, like the Belgian Malinois, the Bohemian Shepherd, and the Dutch Shepherd, among a few others. There are also different types of German Shepherds , such as the working lines and show lines which have slightly different appearances. However, that does not mean identifying a purebred German Shepherd cannot be done. Test the DNA When you are grappling with the question of how to know if your German Shepherd is original, taking a DNA test on your dog is not something you want to do as a first option. Because DNA tests and test kits have a hefty price tag. The most straightforward bet when taking a DNA test on your German Shepherd is to purchase a test kit and follow the instructions on the package. Package the swab with the DNA sample in the provided sealable bag and mail it for testing. If you seek greater accuracy, go for the 2-pack option and use both with your GSD to check the consistency of results. You can identify if your German Shepherd is purebred by assessing your dog for these coat features. The outer coat should be dense, even though a somewhat wavy outer coat is permissible. The hairs at the neck are longer and thicker, while those on the head, fore face, and inside the ears are short. The paws and legs also have short hair, but you may notice slightly longer hair at the rear of the legs, on the hock, and along the pastern. Coat Color The coat colors of the German Shepherd are varied. The black and tan, sable , black and red, bi-color, and solid black variants are among the most common German Shepherd coat colors. The AKC advocates for strong-rich colors and disqualifies blue , livers, white , and faded German Shepherd coat colors even though GSDs with these colors can still be registered. Variations in German Shepherd coat standards should suggest the need to consider more than just the coat type and fur patterns when trying to make out if your German Shepherd is an original. Some of the distinctive physical features of the German Shepherd you should look for include the following characteristics. Other features of a strong-build purebred German Shepherd you should notice include: An even built hindquarter and the forequarter. A noble look with a well-defined feminine or masculine gait for either case. A deep and narrow chest with sloping shoulders and front legs. Pointed Ears The pointy ears of a German Shepherd are among its most popular signature features. The GSD typically carries its ears erect, with the ear ends parallel to each other and vertical to the ground. But the ears of your German Shepherd may not stand erect until the teething period is over. If your GSD is at that teething stage, which ends around weeks 16 and 20, check to see if your dog has erect ears when it hears a sound, barks, or gets excited. Note that floppy ears in adult purebred German Shepherds can be a sign of ill health or the outcome of grooming routines. Also, breed standards usually disqualify a GSD with docked ears. A Long Bushy Tail The German Shepherd has a full and long bushy tail with the last interlocking bone extending to the hock joint. The tail is carried low rather than high and is smoothly set into the rump. A purebred German Shepherd should not carry the tail curled forward as though fearful. The curve can be more pronounced when the dog is excited or moving. You can read about the meaning of German Shepherd tail positions in this article. A long and strong muzzle with a topline parallel to the skull. A black nose. A strong and muscular neck with smooth skin and no loose skin folds. Notice Their Temperament and Behavior Your purebred German Shepherd will present as a confident, fearless, and alert dog. Timidity, nervousness, and anxiety are not part of the intelligent and agile German Shepherd, originally bred as a herding dog. Any characterizing tendency to flee and hide behind the owner or handler should suggest that the dog is not a purebred German Shepherd. While your purebred dog will be friendly and loyal to you, it will show some aloofness towards strangers without, however, being aggressive or showing a lack of confidence. That could leave you wondering how a dog registration certificate can help identify a purebred German Shepherd. That should tell you if both parents of your German Shepherd were of the same breed or not. However, the information given to a dog registry is self-reported by the owner or breeder. The registry does not do background research to confirm the details but instead relies on the honesty of the breeder or owner. Experts with extensive knowledge about the breed are mainly veterinarians. Talk to a German Shepherd Breeder To determine if your German Shepherd is purebred, talk to a reputable breeder with years of experience with the breed. Reputable German Shepherd breeders will give you reliable info about: German Shepherd dog personality and temperament. German Shepherd registration and pedigree papers, especially if you are considering buying your GSD from the breeder. Talk to a German Shepherd Owner Someone who has owned a purebred German Shepherd for years has observed their physical and personality traits and can offer you valuable information about the breed. Go for a purebred German Shepherd owner whose dog you like and looks healthy and well cared for. Fulfilled GSD owners will be glad to tell you about their furry companions and probably show you photos and videos of their growth journey. Videos and photos of another purebred German Shepherd can give you specific details about physical features and temperament traits that you can look out for in your own dog. Original sketch of my German Shepherd Willow Talk to a Veterinarian Veterinarians not only deal with many dog breeds, but they also attend to many dogs of the same breed. As such, they have mastered characteristics proper to the GSD and will give you purebred German Shepherd facts and proofs from their own experience. Suppose you already own the dog that you are trying to identify as purebred. Alternatively, you can explain to the vet features and behaviors you have observed in your dog and have the vet tell you if they are typical of the breed. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. Conclusion 1. That said there are additional benefits to getting a DNA test for your pup and these tests are out there and readily available. All you need to do is purchase a kit online. Although the kit will likely come with two swabs, each kit is only meant to test a sample from one dog. These kits usually include sealable plastic bags to place the swabs in and a pre-paid return box or envelope. When we think of the typical German Shepherd, we think of tan coloring with black facial and saddle markings. The coat is typically dense and short and lies close to the body. This more typical look is only one of many of the purebred German Shepherd. A purebred German Shepherd can have three different varieties of coats, which are the double coat, the plush coat, and the long-haired coat. The double coat is considered the standard of the German Shepherd coats, although many German Shepherds that are kept as family pets have a long-haired coat. Regardless, German Shepherds shed regularly throughout the year and require regular brushing and grooming. While the typical and often preferred coloring of the German Shepherd is tan and black, look for other variants in coloring. The next most common coloring of the German Shepherd is pure black, along with black and cream, black and red, black and silver, bi-color, blue, gray, liver, sable and white. Other Physical Characteristics There is a multitude of other physical characteristics that immediately makes a purebred German Shepherd stand apart from other dogs. These include: Distinct, pointed ears. This means your German Shepherd is going through the puberty stage, where they are teething as well as growing and developing cartilage in their ears. Along with the distinctly pointed ears comes the distinct German Shepherd head tilt which fans of this breed also tend to adore. A strong, proportioned build. Part of the reason the German Shepherd makes an excellent working dog is due to its strong, tall build. A typical German Shepherd is up to 26 inches tall and weighs somewhere between 77 and 85 pounds. A typical German Shepherd puppy weighs up to 10 pounds in the first month and reaches close to 60 pounds by the time they are six months old. A full, long, bushy tail. This is another cherished physical feature of the German Shepherd. When the German Shepherd is resting, their bushy tail tends to hang low to the ground. Behavioral Characteristics Putting aside their physical features, German Shepherds are largely known for certain behavioral characteristics — both positive and negative. These behavioral characteristics include: A high energy level. German Shepherds need a ton of daily exercise and preferably a backyard to let off some steam in-between walks. A strong sense of loyalty. They can be extremely protective of their families if they feel threatened which means that German Shepherds may not necessarily be the best choice for someone with no experience with dogs. A high level of intelligence. German Shepherds are extremely smart, making them excellent working dogs. You often see German Shepherds doing important jobs like assisting police in drug-sniffing and security and aiding in search and rescue. German Shepherds benefit from training and obedience classes which also help keep your dog stimulated and entertained. A sense of possession. As previously mentioned, German Shepherds are extremely protective and loyal dogs, especially when it comes to their families. If your family is looking for a guard dog, a German Shepherd is definitely an excellent option. Due to their sense of possession, German Shepherds are also great dogs for herding sheep. Your German Shepherd may be fantastic with you and your kids but act standoffish or protective around other adults or children. This is where additional training is necessary to make sure that your German Shepherd is not acting unnecessarily aggressive or territorial. Asking Questions The simplest way to identify a German Shepherd? Ask questions! There are a variety of different sources you can ask about the German Shepherd, including: Talking with a breeder. Find a reputable German Shepherd breeder and ask as many questions as you can about the German Shepherd. Unfortunately, a breeder may not be completely forthcoming about negative information so really dig deep about the breeder before purchasing your German Shepherd puppy. Talking with a German Shepherd owner. Speak with someone that you know has a German Shepherd and ask questions. That said, exercise caution when doing so as the German Shepherd may not be overly accepting of a stranger approaching their owner. Talking with a veterinarian. Veterinarians can provide all kinds of valuable information about German Shepherds. If you already have a dog that you believe to be a German Shepherd but are unsure, ask your veterinarian to give you their opinion on whether they believe the dog to be so. Downloading an app. You are now able to download a dog breed identification app to identify a large variety of dog breeds. Additional Identifying Factors An additional identifying factor is unfortunately the genetic health concerns that come along with German Shepherds. German Shepherds are prone to certain health conditions, some more so than other breeds. These health conditions include degenerative myelopathy and hip and elbow dysplasia. Ask your vet about their experience in regards to German Shepherds and whether or not they think this breed would be a good fit for you. Conclusion German Shepherd or not, there are so many wonderful breeds of dogs out there that have an incredible amount to offer you and your family. Mary Nielsen I grew up in a household that was filled with animals. I believe that my fate as a dog-loving person was sealed in early childhood since my parents owned several dogs of varying sizes and breeds. As a life-long puppy lover, I know a thing or two about dogs and how to go about caring for them in the best way possible. Along with my husband, Dave, I run MySweetPuppy for like-minded dog lovers who want to have a single, clear, and reliable information source about anything and everything related to dogs and their well-being. Buy a German Shepherd puppy that should be at least 35 days-old or 40 days-old. Show Line German Shepherds have an angulated back that slopes from high to low as you go from shoulders to rear end, but the Working Line German Shepherds backs are less sloped as compared to Show Line German Shepherds. Color Though German Shepherds are found in many colors, but the most common colors are: Black and tan. Pure black. Pure white. As the puppy will grow, the tan or orangish color will grow upward from claws to body. Some White Line German Shepherds have wolfish gray color as well. As German Shepherd puppy grows its ears droop straight whereas ears of other breeds droop sideways. The distance or gap between the ears of Germans Shepherd is less as compared to other breeds. White Spots When it comes to purity check, the white spots on German Shepherds have always been a debate. To clear your doubt you can carry a DNA test for the identification of breed and ancestry. German Shepherd puppies do have white spots on paws, legs and upper chest. Always remember that these white spots on paws, legs and upper chest will not make German Shepherd impure, it is normal. Some white spots perish naturally as the puppy grows. After 30 years a German Shepherd won this title again, and interestingly this dog has a white spot on his chest. Normally it takes 2 to 3 weeks for your sample to reach the lab. Once it reaches the lab you get customized comprehensive online report. These Dog DNA tests help you to better understand your dog and provide the best possible care, food, training etc, that it deserves. We hope these guidelines will help you to identify the purity of the German Shepherd puppy. Share your feedback in the comments section below. Also Read. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.

Without training to curb your pup's aggressive tendencies, a relatively harmless little Lab can quickly grow into a large and potentially dangerous adult. Step 1 Take your Lab pup out for a brisk walk or jog on a leash and play engaging games like fetch and hide-the-toy with your little furball. Tug-of-war games are discouraged for any dog with any hint of aggressive tendencies. Labradors are a high-energy breed that needs lots of exercise to burn off their extra energy. They love to swim, which may work well if you have a pool -- but don't forget a doggie life jacket for safety. A bored puppy who isn't properly exercised burns off this energy through destructive means, such as chewing on furniture -- or your limbs -- as part of his "play" behaviors. Labs are notorious for chewing on anything and everything around them. While this behavior is not necessarily aggressive to start with, it can lead to aggression when your dog reaches adulthood. If your Lab thinks that biting people or animals during play is okay as a pup, he'll continue to bite people as his jaws get stronger, a situation that can have serious consequences. Step 2 Play with your Lab puppy using chew toys, not your fingers or hands. If your Lab nips your hand during play, loudly say "Ouch! Do this each time your dog nips or bites you until your dog learns that nipping leads to something unpleasant: an abrupt end to the fun and attention. Reward proper behavior that doesn't involve biting with a tasty treat and praise. Step 3 Spray a taste deterrent on your hands or ankles, depending on which body parts are the target of your Labrador pup. These sprays taste bitter and unpleasant to your dog, and when biting or nipping at you results in this yucky taste, it will deter him from nipping at you in the future. Continue to spray your limbs and clothing for two weeks until your pup ceases his attempts to nip or bite you. Step 4 Enroll your Lab pup in a puppy obedience class to teach him basic good manners and to socialize him around strangers and other dogs. Your Lab may not be aggressive around you or your family, but may show aggression toward other animals and people. Labs tend to be protective dogs, wary of strangers, especially as they get older if they are not properly socialized as puppies. Puppy obedience classes expose your dog to strange people and dogs in a positive manner, so he views them as something good. Your dog will also learn basic commands that make it easier for you to control him, decreasing the chances of aggressive behavior. The American Kennel Club offers special classes for puppies called the S. Puppy Program, which stands for puppy socialization, training, activity and responsible owner. Classes are offered around the country and last at least six weeks, depending on how quickly your dog responds to the training. Step 5 Spay or neuter your Lab prior to six months of age, the age at which most pups reach sexual maturity. Labs grow very quickly, and become large dogs by four months of age, according to Veterinary Partner. These pups grow into a to pound adult within the first year, an imposing and potentially dangerous size if your dog is aggressive. The sex hormones present in an intact male dog -- a dog who hasn't been fixed -- increase his aggressive tendencies and dominant behaviors. Step 6 Take your Lab pup to the vet for a checkup if he begins showing signs of aggression, including nipping, growling or snarling. Sometimes a medical condition such as hypothyroidism, an infection, a seizure disorder or an injury can make your dog irritable and more likely to become aggressive, according to the Labrador Retriever Rescue. Step 7 Feed your Lab puppy with his food dish in your lap or you can hand-feed him bits of dry kibble. Not only will your dog bond with you during this experience, but it prevents food and possessive aggression from developing or worsening. Dogs who guard their food dish can snap at you or family members unexpectedly during feeding. Have other family members feed the puppy as well to get your dog used to being submissive to everyone in the home. Slip a treat into your pup's bowl while he eats to also help discourage food aggression from developing. More Articles. Aggression in Labradors Dealing with Aggression Labradors are not usually an aggressive variety. However, there are several factors which may contribute to aggression in labradors. Personality and genetic disposition are not usually the main influences. The early life experience of pups in the 'first fear imprint period, Aggression against the pup by family members or other household pets is highly influential to the way that a dog will respond throughout its life. The secondary influences include sex, age, size, hormonal variation during pregnancy and anxiety. Anxiety in pups must be placated with secure affection and positive discipline. Socialisation from 8 weeks of age is also critical for the healthy development. Do not use physical punishment. This can increase the intensity of your dog's aggression. For general health reason, particularly in later life, we do not recommend this prior to 8 months of age. Types of Aggression Animal behaviouralists classify patterns of behavior and the circumstances in which they occur. This is done to determine the dog's motivation and the cause of the behaviour: Dog to dog - Pack order aggression is one of the most common forms of aggression in dogs. They are pack animals, and they relate to humans as members of their own pack. If your dogs are fighting, do not get in the middle. Interrupt the aggression using water in a spray bottle. Dog to human aggression occurs as the result of intimidation or physical intervention by people, your and old, adult and child. Redirected aggression can occur when an aggressive dog, particularly a male that redirects its aggression from the source to another. When an owner is restraining a dog by pulling him back the dog may retaliate. Dominant dogs often redirect their aggression towards pack subordinates or children of equal size or smaller. Dominant dogs will defend their pack area including a home, room or yard. House and feed your dogs separately if they are fighting with each other. Remove contentious objects like bones and toys. Gender aggression particularly between adult males involves territorial and dominance disputes. Inter-female aggression occurs most frequently between adult females living in the same household. This will be apparent if one female is pregnant. Predatorial aggression is directed towards quick-moving stimulus, like a car or bike. Anything considers as prey, usually other weaker species can be the object of this aggression. Pain induced aggression occurs when a person attempts to touch a painful area or when injections are given. Fear induced aggression occurs when when the dog senses that it is cornered or trapped and cannot escape. A fearful dog is often the victim of an owner uses severe punishment common. Active and unpredictable children may induce this type of aggression. Never allow small children to have unsupervised access to any dog no matter how passive the dog may appear. Children and adults should avoid interacting with dogs that are eating. They should never tease or hurt dogs. Keep your dog confined when unfamiliar children are present Maternal aggression may be directed toward anyone that approaches a bitch with puppies or in false pregnancy. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. He is normally well behaved on walks. If he manages to get past us and get inside, then we try to get him to put him outside, he starts barking and growling at us and runs to another area of the house. He barks at us through the window, and has recently started hitting the window with his poor quite hard and continuously. My boyfriend was at a concert and I took Humphrey lab for a walk. It was about 8pm so towards the end of the walk it started getting dark. We were nearly home and walking through a school playground that we always walk through and he picked up a hat and was playing with it. After he had played with it for a while, I picked it up and threw it to another area and tried to keep walking with him to get home. He suddenly attacked me. He was jumping up on me, growling, barking and biting my arms. I was trying to keep hold of the leash as we were near a main road. I have large bruises, bite marks and scratches all over my arms. It was NOT playful biting at all. It was like he had turned into a warewolf, I was terrified. I couldn't call my boyfriend as he wasn't home and no one was around. After a few minutes, I let go of the leash risking it that he might run onto the road and hoping he might just run it off on the school oval now that I had let go of the leash. Even though I had let go of the leash, he continued attacking him. He was running off and doing run ups to jump at me and bite me. I turned away from him and didn't give him attention as taught in puppy training if they bite He then started attacking the back of me, I have large bite marks and bruises on my bum and thigh, and then after that he tried to pull my clothing with his teeth. This went on for about 20 minutes, I was screaming and crying. He eventually stopped attacking me and I was able to take his leash and walk him home, he walked home with me trying to lick my ankles as we walked. He has not been aggressive again since this incident on Tuesday but I am scared to take him on a walk again and worry that this incident was a build up from the other small issues we have been having above. I have always had cats so this is all new to me. We have done a few months of puppy training and start obedience training in 2 weeks. We are trying to walk him lots and be with him but we can't all day! I'm very concerned. Please help. Older puppy aggression Most puppies are through the worst of the biting phase by about four months old. After about six months of age, some puppies begin to show signs of fear aggression. This means that they may growl or snap at strangers who approach or try to touch them. The way to avoid this behavior and raise a friendly puppy is to thoroughly socialize your pup. You should follow our socialization steps as soon as your puppy arrives in your home Nipping and rough behavior in bigger puppies Some aggressive puppies at around six to nine months old have a resurgence of nipping and rough behavior. Often ending in tears when children are involved. This kind of biting is almost always linked to inappropriate play. Often involving children. Dogs, especially young dogs, are not great at reading behavioral signals from small children and vice versa. There is a bit of a language barrier here, and children can get hurt. The article on playing safely with your Labrador will help you with this. True Aggression in Puppies It is important that you also know how to recognize and deal with true aggression. Genuine aggression is very rare in small puppies and is almost always linked to extreme fear. A puppy that bites from fear will normally attempt to hide and withdraw first. The frightened puppy will normally growl fairly quietly and try to avoid contact before he bites, whereas the playing puppy will initiate contact and growl more and more fiercely once the biting game is underway. A frightened puppy will also often give off a distinctive musky smell. Helping a frightened puppy If you find your puppy cowering under a chair and not wanting to be touched, you can be sure that someone or something has really frightened him. Remove the source of fear toddlers, and other dogs are common culprits and take your time over reassuring him. Fetch some nice food, and tempt him out. He may need plenty of cuddles for a while, but try not to worry. Most puppies are very resilient and soon bounce back from an unpleasant experience. Aggression in older puppies It can be hard to know when an older puppy is truly being an aggressive puppy. Most commonly, biting and rough behavior in older puppies is due to the causes discussed above. True aggression in older puppies is normally caused by fear and anxiety due to insufficient socialization. Socialization To avoid this kind of aggression it is vital to socialize puppies carefully, so that they are not afraid of anything. Although there may be a genetic element to some dog aggression, socialization is your biggest tool in raising a happy calm friendly puppy. Some dogs will guard beds, chairs and benches. Resource guarding should be treated using positive reinforcement Resource Guarding Sometimes, aggression in older puppies is due to resource guarding. This is clearly not to do with play. An aggressive puppy may growl when people approach his food bowl, or his bed for example. Some aggressive puppies also guard stolen socks, or trash picked up on their walk. This is all classed as resource guarding. How to train an aggressive puppy Some years ago, people believed that resource guarding could be trained out of puppies with dominance and pack leadership strategies. We now know that these techniques only suppress the problem and make the dog feel more threatened. They can be extremely dangerous and lead to bites and ultimately the destruction of the dog. Positive Reinforcement Modern training techniques use positive reinforcement and counter conditioning to change the way that dogs feel about having people near their food and other resources. With most resource guarding problems, especially in older puppies and adult dogs, it is best to get professional help from a behaviorist. Your vet should be able to recommend one. Aggression towards other dogs As with dog-human interactions, it is important to be aware that puppy growling and gentle biting at the other dogs in your house is normal puppy play. Keep an eye that the older dog is not getting frustrated, and separate them if needed — but try not to worry about the puppy noise! You may find our guide to introducing a puppy to an older dog helpful. If, however, your older puppy or dog is being aggressive to other dogs it meets, you may want to consider help from a behaviorist. Puppy Aggression Causes Dog to dog aggression occurs for a variety of reasons. You may need help unpicking the cause, before trying to fix this problem. In the meantime consider keeping your dog on a leash when other dogs are around. And remember — punishing your dog is known to make this problem worse. Life with an Aggressive Puppy Growling and biting are not usually signs of aggression in puppies. Noisy, aggressive-looking, play is a developmental phase that all puppies go through. With your help, it will soon be over. Serious aggression in small puppies is rare and usually only occurs in puppies that are terrified, and that have been prevented from hiding. So rest assured, no matter how fierce your little puppy sounds when he hangs on to your shoes or attacks your fingers, it is not a sign of true aggression. It is normal puppy play. More serious problems Most puppy owners will be reassured by this article, that their puppies growling and nipping is not a sign a an aggressive puppy, but is a normal phase of puppy development. However, if you are concerned that your older puppy or adult dog is showing true aggression, or that they may bite you in a way that causes genuine harm, seek help. A canine behaviorist can assess your dog and advise you on how best to retrain them. Your vet will be able to put you in touch with a behaviorist. Aggressive Puppy and Children Remember, children are particularly at risk from dog bites. If you are concerned, minimize interactions between your dog and children. And always supervise their time together. Research shows that most people find it hard to predict when their children are safe around a dog, and when to worry. Your vet is an important point of call for an aggressive puppy or dog. They love everyone. Sound familiar? The Reactive Labrador The reality is that there are individual Labradors who are reactive and use aggressive behavior at times. The reasons or motivations for their behavior will vary. But one thing is true of all of them: aggressive behavior is totally normal. All dogs can use aggression to a greater or lesser extent depending on their individual temperament and experiences. Just like every person can lose their temper or slam the occasional door in frustration. When working with a reactive and aggressive Labrador the aim is not to suppress the behavior. How we do that varies depending on the likely emotion underlying the reactive behavior. Warning Signs of Reactivity in Labradors Generally canine social etiquette is ritualised and aimed at diffusing tension and avoiding conflict; aggressive behavior carries a risk of injury and is therefore a last resort. Dogs will show early warning signs that they are feeling uncomfortable in a situation. These include turning or moving away, yawning, nose licking, and their pupils will dilate. If they are prevented from moving away, then they are likely to increase the intensity of their signals. Moving on to snapping and biting to get their point across. If the dog learns that the smaller signals are ignored, or if the intensity of the trigger is too high, then they will respond with the more overt behavior. They will start barking, rushing towards in an attempt to drive the trigger away, snapping and biting. The aggressive behavior in the image below is cued by the handler. These are a couple of the indications that this is a learned response. If the dog may be in pain then providing suitable pain relief is essential. Reactivity From Frustration Another common motivation for aggression, but one that is often mistaken or forgotten, is frustration. A frustrated dog is likely to show fewer of the lower level signals of discomfort. Although lip or nose licks are common in times of conflicted emotions such as wanting to greet but not being able do because of the lead, or a fence. If your Labrador is bouncing on the end of the lead, weight forward, ears pricked, tail up, and barking with a high pitch then they are likely to be a frustrated greeter. One who may behave more appropriately off lead when they can greet as they like. Many frustrated greeters, however, are socially inappropriate. Rushing at other dogs and ignoring any signs from them that they are less than enthusiastic about the approach of 30kg of happy Labrador. They may well end up being snapped at, or worse, by the dogs they bounce on. It is not uncommon for dogs whose reactivity manifests first as frustration to develop elements of fear-based aggression after being told off by other dogs for their social ineptitude, leading to considerable conflict of emotions around other dogs. Dogs who become extremely frustrated around other dogs, or when denied things that they want, may well redirect their frustration on to the nearest object they can find. The lead, the person or dog standing next to them, or a toy if one is available. Providing a suitable outlet such as a tug toy is one way to manage the situation in an emergency. Does Predation Create an Aggressive Labrador? It is worth mentioning that predation is also a common motivation for aggressive behavior. Labradors are not traditionally associated with catching and killing prey. But actually it is not unusual to meet dogs who are aroused by fast moving objects. Such as bicycles, running people and the more obvious small furry animals and birds in our fields and hedgerows. Again, if the desire to chase is thwarted then any resulting aggressive behavior may well be frustration-related. This is despite predation being the initial motivation for the behavior. Is Reactivity in Dogs Medical? There are several techniques that can be used to modify aggressive Labrador responses. Before considering any of them it is essential to rule out any underlying medical issue. Pain or illness which may be contributing to the aggressive behavior. Pain is the most obvious cause. So if your dog appears stiff, reluctant to move or uncomfortable at times then discuss this with your vet. It can help to take video of the movement, gait, or situations that concern you. This will mean that your vet can see exactly what is happening, in a way they cannot recreate in clinic. Even if a clinical exam does not identify a source of potential pain it can be beneficial to trial a short course of pain relief. Make sure you note any changes in behavior or movement. Pain which occurs when playing with other dogs can often be at the root of the onset of dog:dog aggression; equally aggression towards people can be triggered by pain or the fear of pain on being stroked, or moved from a resting spot. As well as pain there are medical issues which in themselves increase the likelihood of aggressive behavior so a thorough vet check is essential. Especially in cases where you seem to have an aggressive Labrador without warning. The behavior has developed suddenly. This helps them relax and improves their general welfare. They are no longer on edge anticipating something which scares or arouses them. And also stops them practising the behavior that we want to change. Every time your Labrador reacts aggressively they are strengthening the neural pathway. This makes that behavior more likely and harder to change; it becomes their default and may well be used in situations away from the initial trigger in the future. Aggressive behavior which has generalised in this way is much harder to change. If your Labrador is reactive towards other dogs on walks, whatever the underlying emotion behind the reaction, then try to find alternative places with fewer dogs and keep your distance by turning around calmly before your dog can react. Or look for a local space such as a riding school or dog training centre you may be able to hire for safe and secure walks. Reacting To Reactivity It is important to note that if your dog does react aggressively, whatever the situation, scolding them or correcting them will not help them learn what you do want them to do instead. In fact it may well make things worse, as they then become concerned about your reaction as well as the thing that triggered their behavior in the first place. Instead, calmly move them further away from the situation until they are at a distance where they can be calm themselves. If possible let the dog look at the scary, or frustrating, thing and reward them with tasty treats for being calm. This also helps them start to change their emotional response; so that the dog that scared them is now associated with tasty treats instead. We will next take a look at ways of changing emotions and behavior in the medium to longer term. Aggressive behavior is a normal part of social interaction. In some cases the genetic tendency of a dog to be fearful, anxious or easily frustrated, or the length of time they have been practising their aggressive behavior, will limit the progress you can make with them. You will need patience, and a willingness to accept that their needs are different from those you might have expected when you brought them home. Your Aggressive Labrador There is an increasing understanding of the needs of sensitive dogs, and many more trainers and dog places offer activities that are perfectly suited to dogs who do not wish to run and play with other dogs, or who would rather have a bit more space around people. Scentwork and tracking are ideal, as are activity classes which offer lots of different options, from trick training to fun rally. This should involve acknowledging and working to change their underlying emotional response, not simply suppressing the aggression using punishment. There should also be a focus on enabling them to manage themselves in arousing situations, so that, in time, they can make the right choice without needing direction for you. Many dogs will also need help to learn the correct social skills around other dogs. Your Labrador is an individual, with individual experiences and genetics that make them unique; their behavior modification plan should be as individual as they are. Even if you are able to manage the day to day behavior modification training alone, the benefits of working alongside someone who can provide objective feedback, advice on the next steps and support are invaluable. High value food is usually the obvious choice. This can quickly change his emotions from wanting the other dog to go away to wanting them to be around so that he gets the really yummy treat. This is usually done in conjunction with DRI so that he can start to learn how to behave appropriately and be reinforced for polite behavior around other dogs. At all times your Labrador should be working at a distance where they are not reactive, and gradually moving closer to their trigger when they are ready to do so. Any signs of low-level fear or anxiety should be respected and the distance between the dogs increased until the fearful dog is comfortable. To continue working with a dog above threshold is stressful for your dog, counter-productive and risks an aggressive response. Options for Helping your Reactive Dog One of the main criticisms of BAT is that it relies on your Labrador feeling empowered, or relieved, by the other dog moving away in response to calm behavior from your dog. In learning theory terms this is negative reinforcement i. This suggests that he was uncomfortable beforehand, even if only marginally. CAT and flooding are far more extreme in their use of relief as a reinforcer and should be avoided. Examples of this include sitting automatically before their lead goes on, or waiting calmly without being told when you open the boot of the car. This is particularly useful with frustration-related aggression where learning to stay calm when denied access to things he wants is the key skill your Labrador will need to learn before you can work on his manners around other dogs. As with any kind of training or behavior modification, finding a trainer whose skills and knowledge are suitable for your reactive Labrador is key. You must have confidence that they have a range of appropriate tools available to them, that they are able to accurately assess and respond to your dog and that you would like to work with them. This article has only scratched the surface of the options and techniques that are available to help you and your reactive Labrador, but good help is out there. Sian Ryan is an expert Animal Behaviorist based in Cambridgeshire. With several years of training experience and after completing her MSc, Sian worked as a behavior counsellor and trainer in the University of Lincoln Animal Behavior Clinic, where she was able to apply her MSc research in to Self Control in Pet Dogs to her behavior and training work. Sian owns and runs the Developing Dogs Training and Behavior Centre in Cambridgeshire, as well as giving seminars and workshops nationally and internationally. Her first book, No Walks? No Worries!

Despite their ancestry, English Bulldogs are not ferocious anymore but laid back and affectionate. Bulldogs are one of the most recognizable dog breeds in the world. They are medium-sized dogs with low-hanging, thick bodies. They are perfect for inexperienced owners due to their relaxed personality, moderate exercise needs, and easy grooming. Of course, there are some negatives to owning English Bulldogs, like health problems caused by their flat muzzle and their unusual body shape. This is the English Bulldog price range for a puppy from a small-scale but reputable breeder. Gasping at these numbers is an appropriate reaction, but there are multiple reasons why Bulldog puppies are so expensive. We will cover the high costs of breeding later, but the price of English Bulldogs also depends on market laws — the popularity of the breed drives the price up. Four British Bulldog puppies on a run While the adorable Bulldog is low-maintenance in terms of grooming and exercise, various health problems can make them expensive to care for. You should also avoid buying puppies from pet shops since they usually come from puppy mills. Buying a puppy directly from a reputable breeder is the best way to go. Ethical breeders provide health screenings for their puppies and answer all your questions regarding their parents, breeding, and living conditions. Bulldogs from reputable breeders cost more due to high breeding expenses. Other breeding costs include genetic testing, vet bills, and preparation expenses. On the other hand, when you adopt from a Bulldog rescue, the dog is usually spayed or neutered and up to date on vaccinations. Age: Caring for a newborn Bulldogs takes time, money, and energy. Older puppies or adolescent Bulldogs will cost less than newborns. Gender: The price for female English Bulldogs might be slightly higher in some cases, but the difference is usually negligible. Coat Color: Coat color can seriously affect the price of the dog because some colors and patterns are pretty rare. Standard coat colors include white, fawn, red, brindle, and their combinations. Bulldogs with these colors and patterns fall within the average range price. Meanwhile, rarer colors and patterns are more expensive. The newest colors, like merle or lilac, are even more costly. These numbers are based on the essentials like supplies, food, grooming costs, medical expenses, training costs, with microchip and license included. This price range might still increase, especially if you opt for a puppy from a champion bloodline or one with rare coat color. Compared to both cousin dog breeds, purebred English Bulldogs cost more due to the extra care needed during birth. A pregnant British Bulldog must be closely monitored once it reaches its final stages of pregnancy. Female Bulldog: Which Is Better? Besides papers and registry documents, bloodline, age, and coat color are also some factors that could affect the average price of your Bulldog. Here is a detailed list of the factors that affect the price range of an English Bulldog: Age: English Bulldog puppies cost more than seniors or adult dogs because they are healthier and more active. Senior dogs often have tons of health issues that need immediate medical attention, while puppies are a joy to be with because they are at the prime of their health. Gender: Female English Bulldogs may cost you a bit more than a male because of their breeding potential. Potential owners and Bully enthusiasts also request a female pup more than males because of their better temperament. The demand pushes the price of female English Bulldogs to a higher cost. Rarer colors like tri-color , merle , and blue English Bulldogs are typically much more expensive. Bloodline: A champion English Bulldog puppy might cost three to four times as much as typical English Bulldog puppies. They are known to exhibit the best physique, temperament, and health. Plus, they are perfect for competitions. Reputable breeders often have a long history of breeding success. Their high prices are also backed by health guarantees and other safeguards. Health Screenings: Before selling their puppies, many breeders evaluate them for health problems. They sell their puppy for a higher price if it is deemed to be in excellent health. Regardless, it is still a good idea to look for an English Bulldog puppy that comes with a health guarantee. With this list, you might already have your own cost estimation for the pup you want. English Bullies that have been rescued have already been spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and have complete registration documents. Before being put up for adoption, they undergo retraining and behavioral rehabilitation as well. Rescues often house more adult Bullies as puppies are more likely to be adopted immediately. To help you in purchasing, we have compiled a list of all the initial expenses for owning an English Bulldog: Food and Treats: One of the basic items you should get for your English Bulldog is high-quality dog food and a few treat packages for on-hand training. You may need to buy a few of them to see which one works best for your dog. As a fairly slobber-ish canine, you might have a hard time cleaning leftover dog food from a cheap container. Bed: To prevent your English Bulldog from abnormal physical disorders, it is best to invest in a high-quality dog bed. A crate may also be a safe haven for your dog when you are not home or when you have visitors. Leashes and Collars: Some of the first things you should get for your English Bulldog are leashes and collars. Be sure to get one that is a good fit for your dog. Metal nameplates included in these items that are less likely to corrode might cost a little extra. Toys: Chew toys that are easy to pick up and clean are ideal for English Bulldogs. Choose interactive and sturdy toys that will stimulate their high intelligence and withstand their strong jaws. Grooming Essentials: Brushing English Bulldogs a few times a week should keep them looking nice, and their shedding would be manageable. Cleaning moisture that could be trapped under their wrinkles is also a must. Nail clippers and a doggy toothbrush are good investments, too. Initial Vet Visits: English Bulldog puppies require initial vet examinations to ensure that they are healthy. Dog License: For an English Bulldog puppy, a license is a necessity. The dog microchip should have all your important contact information as the owner, increasing the chances of your Bully being returned to you as soon as possible if they get lost. Replacement costs of these types of goodies will range based on how quickly your Bulldog destroys their current supply. You can also order subscription packs from many reputable companies that give your dog new exploratory items every month. Since these dogs are at risk for many health complications, save as much as you can—erring on the side of caution. The best time for obedience lessons is between 6 months to a year, but every trainer varies in preference. Depending on the treatment, you could spend thousands of dollars in one swoop. Pet sitting is more personalized care but can rack up extra fees. If you want to save as much as possible while still giving your Bulldog the care they need, look at these money-saving tips. They mainly offer spay and neuter surgeries at reduced costs, but they can also provide basic care. You can make anything from dog toys to intricate beds. Many things you can make may not even require going to the store for materials—you can simply make them from existing items at home. Auto-Ship Dog Food If you buy your dog food from certain websites, many companies offer discounted prices if you place an automatic, recurring order. Of course, you can always save on English Bulldog costs by using low-cost services and making tons of at-home projects and toys for your pooch. Less - The English Bulldog is a wide, medium-sized, compact dog with short legs. The body and head are massive with extra skin on both the skull and forehead falling in folds. The cheeks extend to the sides of the eyes. The muzzle is wide, short and pug with a broad, deep stop. The black nose is broad with large nostrils. The dark eyes are deep set. The rose ears are small, thin and set high on the head. The jaws are massive, very broad, and square with hanging upper lips. The teeth should have an under bite. The tail is either straight or screwed and carried low. The short, flat coat is straight, smooth and glossy. Coat colors include red brindle and other shades of brindle, solid white, solid red, fawn, fallow, piebald, pale yellow or washed-out red or white or a combination of these colors. Despite its "sourmug," the bulldog is jovial, comical and amiable, among the most docile and mellow of dogs. It is willing to please, although it retains a stubborn streak. It is very good with children. Most are moderately friendly toward strangers. Although some can be aggressive with strange dogs, the breed is quite good with other pets. These dogs were bred for sheer fighting capacity, and they were famed for latching onto their prey with an iron jaw which they refused to release—they could even suffocate opponents this way. English Bulldogs are simultaneously a symbol of British tenacity and an immensely popular American pet. These pets are arguably the most expensive dogs to own. Simply put, they are overwhelming to look at and amazing to be with. However, taking care of a Bulldog is not a cakewalk — and the dog does not come cheap. Perhaps, it is one of the reasons why Bulldogs are not for everyone. Taking care of the dog can be very expensive! Here are some reasons why the Bulldogs are considered the most expensive dogs to own. Bulldogs are not the most expensive dogs to buy, but yet costly to own The Bulldog is not the most expensive dog, but he costs a lot more than many other dog breeds. The most expensive dog ever sold is a golden-haired Tibetan Mastiff. Bulldogs do not nearly cost that much. For further comparison, here are a few more popular dog breeds and their average selling price. Bulldogs are one the most expensive dogs to buy but their cost varies depending on their color and quality. A Bulldog puppy commands such a high price because of the following factors. Pre-breeding preparations are also expensive. The average litter size of Bulldogs is 4 to 5. Bulldog breeders face a lot of issues during the breeding. Bulldogs have been tagged as an unhealthy breed because they are prone to a number of health issues. They suffer from Brachycephalic syndrome and are prone to hip dysplasia , progressive retinal atrophy, cystinuria, and more. Responsible Bulldog breeders ensure that their dogs have proper health screenings for genetic issues before deciding to breed them. Prior to mating their dogs or artificial insemination, good breeders also make certain that the female dog is in good condition with on-schedule vaccinations, heartworm preventative, and deworming. These accumulated expenses on preparing dogs for breeding cost breeders significantly. Bulldog stud services and artificial insemination too come with a hefty price tag. A few weeks after having the stud service or artificial insemination done, the female dog undergoes different pre-natal procedures, including x-rays and ultrasounds, to detect if she is pregnant. If the tests confirm pregnancy, the dog needs vitamins and special nutrition. Bulldogs have a high incidence of water puppies and cleft palates. Normal labor can take a toll on the mother because she cannot breathe properly. Pushing out puppies can be extremely difficult for her. Hence, it is advisable not to breed if you are not ready to handle the expenses. Taking care of newborn Bulldogs needs time, energy, and money The expenditures and care go up after the puppies are born. Breeders devote a lot of their time taking care of the newborn Bulldogs and their mother. They have to spend on supplements, high-quality food, milk replacements, and other puppy products to ensure both the mother and puppies stay healthy. For this reason, it is necessary to constantly watch the mother Bulldog and her pups. The breeder usually takes care of the puppies for at least 8 weeks. Puppies need weekly veterinary appointments to check their health and undergo deworming sessions. Most responsible breeders make sure that the puppies receive at least one shot of the core vaccines before sending them to their new families. Healthcare costs comparatively high The cost of healthcare makes Bulldogs the most expensive dogs to own. They are prone to many health issues. Ask any Bulldog owner and many of them would tell you about different health issues their pets get from time to time. The most common health issues Bulldog owners are concerned about are the yeast infection , cherry eyes , digital cysts , head tremors , and skin infection. Treatment and preventive checkups increase the cost of looking after these dogs. Cheap Bulldog vs. Most of them can cost you thousands of dollars in vet bills. Although pet stores sell Bulldogs that are of the same price range claiming that they have well-bred Bulldogs, it is still better to get puppies directly from reputable breeders. This is because most pet stores get their puppies from puppy mills, where many dogs are abused and inhumanely used as breeding machines. Aside from indirectly supporting the cruel industry, getting a puppy from these shops may cost you more money for veterinary expenses. A well-bred Bulldog may cost a lot more but they often live longer and are generally healthier. Bulldogs make wonderful companion pets although they are one of the most expensive dogs to own. So it is better to get a Bulldog puppy from a breeder who genuinely loves the breed and aims to produce healthier Bulldogs that fall within the breed standard. A good breeder aims to improve the breed by selecting good parents to get rid of genetic flaws. Leave a Reply: Leave a comment below and share your thoughts.

If you normally feed your dog once in the morning and once in the evening, add in one more meal right before bed. Start by feeding them the same amount spread out over more meals. If this does not help them gain weight, you may need to give them more food, adding a quarter to half a cup per meal. This type of feeding schedule allows your dog to nibble a little whenever they are hungry or bored, which may help them eat more overall. Keep in mind that free-feeding may not work for your dog. For some dogs, the excitement of getting their food at certain times during the day makes them eat more than if it was available to them all the time. Treats should not be a primary calorie source for your dog. Giving them a few extra treats throughout the day, though, can help your German Shepherd gain some weight. Some dogs find treats from your fridge to be more appealing than treats from a bag. Give your German Shepherd small amounts of cooked chicken mixed with rice, a spoonful of peanut butter, a scrambled egg, or some apple slices every day in addition to their normal food. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. A sprinkle of rice, a couple heaping spoonfuls of pumpkin, a bit of wet food, or a big spoonful of peanut butter mixed in with dry food could intrigue your dog into eating. Coconut oil has a lot of calories, and it's easy for dogs to digest. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Do you want to know how to fatten up a German Shepherd to make them gain weight in a healthy way? Are you worried that your German Shepherd is thin and underweight and want to know how to bulk up a German Shepherd for safe weight-gain? Is Your German Shepherd Underweight? Your dog should have a trim, athletic appearance. They are large breed dogs with fast metabolisms that are active and energetic in their daily lives. Fit German Shepherds may at first seem slightly underweight. They are lean, athletic dogs with a strong, firm figure and you should avoid learning how to make a German Shepherd fat. Instead, you want to bulk-up your German Shepherd to make them fit. But if you see their ribs protruding or their hip bones raised and easily felt when petting, this is a sign of being underweight. You should first check with your vet for possible medical issues. You want to know if they are gaining weight, losing weight, or remaining the same. This helps you to decide if your weight gain plan is working — or if you need to adjust your plan. If your dog continues losing weight or if you see a lack of progress, take your dog back to your veterinarian. You need to see this as a long term plan and not an overnight fix to get your German Shepherd fat and by fat, I mean bulk-up not obese or overweight. Look for foods that have a higher percentage of fat and protein than your current food. Adults and seniors should eat about 20 to 25 percent of their daily calories from protein and 25 to 50 percent from fats. The rest of the calories should come from carbohydrates. This is anywhere from 8 months to a year or longer. Change to Puppy or High-Performance Food If you have an adult dog, switch them to a puppy or high-performance dog food to help them gain healthy weight. Both puppy and high-performance also known as a working breed food is higher in calories to support complex energy needs and sustained growth. Puppy foods generally have added nutrients to support puppy growth which can help your underweight German Shepherd gain weight and fatten up in a controlled manner — which is what you want. Mixing regular adult and puppy or high-performance food helps your GSD gain weight and fat in a regulated manner. For More Calories Feed Dry Kibble Dry kibble dog food generally has more calories if you want your dog to gain weight. Dry kibble is denser and contains more calories than wet food because the moisture has been removed from dry foods. Therefore, dry food has up to 4 times the number of calories as the same amount of wet food — dry kibble is a weight gaining powerhouse! If your dog is currently eating wet meals, then try mixing in some dry food with their wet food to help stimulate weight gain. Wet foods may taste better to your dog, so mixing in the dry foods with the wet still encourages your dog to eat in order to not lose more weight. Look for dry food with higher protein and fats to encourage weight gain in a healthy manner and go with one of the foods mentioned above for fat gain that is healthy. Begin by feeding your dog a bit more of their current food spread out over one more meal per day. Add a quarter to half a cup of extra food per meal. You can also take their regular feeding and the additional food and increase their feeding schedule to four times per day, splitting the food equally at each feeding. If your German Shepherd is picky about when they eat, then it may help to leave food out for them all the time. This is called free feeding. Dogs who can free feed tend to gain more weight than dogs fed on a schedule. Free feeding allows your dog the chance to eat a little whenever they are hungry or bored. This type of feeding may help them eat more overall. But only use free feeding with dry food, since wet foods spoil when left out for more than a couple hours. They may follow you around rather than eat when you offer their food bowl — this may be especially true of Shepherds since they tend to get fixated on their caretaker. But, just keeping your dog company while they eat may stimulate their appetite. Find a comfortable spot to sit and wait on your dog while they eat. Bring a book or do a quiet activity while they eat close to you. Simply sit with them and enjoy your time together while they eat. Keep the treats handy and offer them to help get extra calories into your dog. Adding these foods into their regular kibble may also entice them to eat more of their dry dog food, which can help an underweight puppy or adult. They also add extra calories which are healthy and nutritious. To get your dog more interested in their food, try sprinkling on a topping to their usual meals. You can even buy healthy toppers that are easy to add. Seniors, adults, and puppies all have various nutritional concerns. Most commercial and pre-made dog foods specify their intended age range on the packaging and state what groups the food is aimed at feeding. Underfeeding a German Shepherd puts your dog at a serious health risk. You need to make sure they get enough food for their age and energy needs. Puppies generally eat almost double the number of calories an adult dog needs, so be sure to check out this post on what amount to feed a German Shepherd puppy to keep them healthy. While a senior GSD may eat significantly fewer calories, if they are losing weight or underweight and a vet has been consulted, they may need extra feedings or food to help them gain the weight back. German Shepherds thrive on consistent physical activity. Walking and swimming are activities that build muscle and are lower impact and less intense on their joints and bones. They can be done every day to keep your dog active and help them to maintain their muscle mass. But these two exercises can be performed at a lower intensity so that even older dogs and puppies can enjoy their benefits make sure your puppy can swim first. Keeping muscle mass is important to prevent wasting and help maintain their health and mobility, as well as their athletic appearance. Try walking up hills to improve muscle growth or a gentle game of tug using a spring pole in which your dog can start and stop on their own. Some of the herbs used to increase human appetite are also safe for use in dogs. Dandelion is available in this for-1 multivitamin , along with other herbal supplements to make your GSD gain weight. B vitamins are natural appetite stimulants and are readily available over the counter and online. Visit Your Vet Regularly Always see your vet regularly. Regular vet appointments are especially important for your underweight German Shepherd. Your vet will use your notes to help make medical adjustments, as necessary, and to give you the right tips and advice. Helping Your German Shepherd Gain Weight Knowing how to fatten up a German Shepherd can help you and your dog achieve their ideal weight and maintain this healthy condition. There are many reasons why your dog or puppy may not be gaining weight. But there are also ways to help your dog at home to become healthier and have more energy. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. It can be a minor issue or flat-out hazardous. So, we applaud you for trying to learn why you have a skinny German Shepherd. Excessive Exercise It could be likely that your skinny male German Shepherd is overly active and getting a lot of exercise. More work means more food, not just any food but those high in calories. Dental Issues We often let dental problems in our dogs go unnoticed. It can be a sore, abscess, ulcer, or even broken teeth and gum infections. It can cause weight loss over time or even spread to other areas in the body if not treated quickly. Health problems that affect their weight can range widely. Parasites and worms are common issues in many dogs, while more severe problems like cancer and heart disease also cause unusual weight loss. Look for other symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and dizziness as they usually accompany weight loss when the dog suffers from a serious health issue. Your dog can get undesirable effects too. Not getting enough attention, training , exercise, or not socializing enough can lead to anxiety in your dog. Other causes include moving to a new home and bringing home a new pet. Think about what might be causing stress in your dog and consider how you can improve its overall living quality. Genetics Sometimes, the reason for a skinny German Shepherd can be as simple as its genetic factor. Most working German Shepherds are lean, so your dog will most probably be skinny because it is from this bloodline. Try to recollect how it looked when it was younger. Aging causes dental problems and appetite loss, which makes them skinny. However, it can also be because of deeper health problems brought about by aging, like cancer. Here are some effective options you can consider: Visit the Vet The foremost thing to do when your German Shepherd is suddenly losing weight is to see a vet. Consider Puppy Food Puppy food contains ingredients that help puppies grow rapidly and healthily. Try feeding puppy food to your older dog to let it gain weight. However, consult with the vet before implementing this step to ensure safety. Try Wet Food German Shepherds with dental problems will benefit tremendously from wet food. It is much easier to consume, making your pet want to eat more. Let Them Eat When They Want German Shepherd parents who cannot make time to give them multiple meals daily should consider leaving the food out for them to eat anytime. Leave dry food instead of wet food, as they will remain fresh for longer. Homemade Treats Might Help Making treats for your dog at home ensures a healthier diet. Cheese and peanut butter are great options. While buying them, make sure to look for those high in calories. Note: Steer clear of grapes and chocolates while preparing homemade treats for your GSD. It can also relieve you to know that your pooch is gaining weight, even if slowly. The Takeaway Whether you have a skinny female German Shepherd or a male one, seeing them lose weight can be disheartening. While some breeds are lean by nature, a variety of underlying health issues might be causing it. Take it to the vet to rule out all possibilities, or treat them ASAP. You can also help your dog gain back weight by following the above measures. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. So too will a GSD that is consuming low-quality food in general. Getting the calories right! Moderately active German shepherds need around calories per day, whereas highly active German shepherds need around calories per day. Highly active working GSDs may even need upwards of calories. Either the quality of the food is fine, but the portion sizes are too small too few calories , or the quality of the kibble is lacking. Again, this ties into calorie consumption. If your GSD is super active over 3 hours of exercise a day , she will likely need calories per day. Health issues In most cases, health issues are the cause of sudden weight loss. Health issues that affect weight can range from harmless and treatable all the way to serious, even fatal issues rarer. Common problems like worms and parasites particularly in puppies can cause weight loss. Rarer and more serious things like heart disease and cancer can also cause weight loss. Health problems usually always come with multiple symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, dizziness, or any noticeable change from her normal self. If this is the case, then it would be evident right from puppyhood. If you were lucky enough to see the mum and other puppies in the litter, they would have all been similarly skinny. Some GSDs are just smaller than others. Stress and anxiety Just as stress can have many undesirable effects on us, it can do the same with our furry friends, too, weight loss being one of them. Common reasons include spending too much time alone, not receiving enough exercise, attention, or training. Additionally, it could be down to a change in their environment like moving homes, new neighbors, or even the addition of a household pet. Consider your GSDs overall quality of life, basic needs and think about the possibility of them being stressed. Bad eating habits Fussy eating is something many owners have to deal with at some point. The issue is that this could be the cause of weight loss. Once again, it comes back down to the calories in versus the calories out. I have an entire article dedicated to why your GSD might be refusing their food. Dental issues If your GSD is suffering from any kind of dental complaint, this could cause them to refuse their food and lose out on calories. So I think it deserves its own section. In fact, this was actually what happened with my GSD when she was 7. After refusing her food and simultaneously losing weight, I checked her mouth to find some serious gum irritation thankfully not gum disease. We got that resolved with the help of our veterinarian, and her appetite came back right away. Aside from using the scales, one of the best ways to know if your GSD is underweight or not is to simply feel them and look at their waistline. Ribs Run your hand along their side with light pressure. You should be able to feel their ribs a little this is normal! Waistline Waistline abdominal tuck should be noticeable but not extreme. Check out this chart from Petcarerx source. If the weight loss has happened suddenly for no obvious reason, it is advised to see a vet. Important note: If you suspect your GSD is losing weight for an alternative reason like stress or dental issues, the best solution would be to address those issues instead of adjusting their diet. Always consider the cause first. Add wet dog food My all-time favorite way to stop fussy eating while adding a boost of nutrition and calories is to mix in a small amount of wet dog food to their kibble. This is a known and safe method that veterinarians recommend to help with weight gain. Mix in some wet dog food preferably the same brand , and your GSD will likely benefit from this greatly. Add it once a day or every other day. This will enhance the flavor and beat most cases of fussy eating. Just ensure the meat broth you use is a healthy option without a high salt content or artificial flavorings or additives. Increase portion size Assuming you are already using a high-quality kibble and your GSD is getting on well with it no digestive issues or diarrhea , then it could be a simple matter of increasing the portion size. Be sure to check the back of the bag and work out how many calories you are adding. This is a noticeable difference for a dog, so you should see some changes in weight over weeks. Avoid giving too many treats Although we are trying to add calories and encourage weight gain, treats are not the solution to this. Especially if your GSD is refusing the food anyway. These brands focus on high-quality ingredients that are fresh and close to their natural state. Brands like these also prioritize protein and fat over carbohydrates, which is an instant sign of higher quality. Inferior brands are known to use carbs to bulk out their food while keeping prices cheap. In addition to this, canines, in general, are better adapted to eating a wild diet. Wild diets are high in protein and fat while low on carbs. This results in better digestion and absorption of the food they are eating. Just remember to change foods gradually over the course of days, phasing out the old and incorporating more of the new. This should prevent stomach upset. Additional articles that may help:. Tweet We get a lot of questions from German Shepherd owners about how to keep weight on their pups. Chronically skinny, underweight Shepherds can be heartbreaking for an owner who is desperate to put weight on them. What do I do? Schnauzers can have this problem too. So what is it? Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency or EPI is a condition in which the pancreas is not able to produce adequate enzymes to digest and absorb food properly. To determine if this is the case with your shepherd, make an appointment with your veterinarian and request some blood testing. Shepherds are also susceptible to pancreatitis so it's important that you think preventatively! So what can you do if your shepherd has EPI? Your first line of defense as a pet owner is choosing the type of food and supplements you put into your shepherd. Try the following: Provide as many dietary enzymes as possible. Our recommendation is by feeding a raw diet. Raw meat, bones, organs, and juiced veggies combined will contain all the necessary enzymes for better digestive function. By relieving the pancreas of having to produce additional enzymes you can prevent pancreatic inflammation Pancreatitis. Shepherds that are fed only processed or cooked diets are often missing these vital nutrients. Suggestion: A rotation of our 3P veggies 1 and 4 is a great way to give natural-source vitamins and minerals as well as metabolic support for a dog suffering from a pancreatic disease. This may be a bit gross for some, but excellent for your pup! Add a good portion of raw, green tripe to the diet. Green tripe, an animal stomach that smells horrible, but it works! If fed raw not canned it contains the highest levels of digestive enzymes available in a natural form. Wild canines eat the stomach of their prey first because of this fact. Your shepherd will benefit too. Us it as a supplement on top of regular food portions. Ensure you are purchasing freshly frozen, grass-fed tripe. Provide a canine-specific digestive enzyme supplement that includes ox bile and a variety of other digestive enzymes. This will also provide some extra digestive support. Start slowly and build up to a full dosage if your shepherd is experiencing regular diarrhea. Keeping the gut flora in good working order will help your dog to absorb as many nutrients as possible. Good bacteria in the gut will also help with enzyme production, so don't leave the good bacteria out! Look for canine-specific, high potency, multi-strain probiotics with a pre-biotic added. Feed a lean, low-fat raw diet. High-fat diets can overwork the pancreas and the liver and are not recommended for shepherds with EPI or other pancreatic dysfunction. High-quality lean protein will help pack on the pounds for shepherds having difficulty gaining weight. Steer clear of lamb, duck, and other naturally high-fat meats. Cook yams or squash to add as low-glycemic carbohydrates. Cooked yams and squash are more nutritious and easier to digest than other forms of carbohydrate, such as rice or oatmeal. Also yams and squash pair better with the digestibility of raw foods. Remove the skin, unless vegetables are organic then you can keep the skins on. Make all dietary changes slowly and add one thing at a time. Your veterinarian can check for worms with a stool sample. Certain types of worms such as roundworms can be fatal in puppies if left untreated, so it is crucial that you take your puppy for regular checkups. Has your Puppy Been Traveling Regularly? If you feel that your GSD puppy is too skinny, consider if you have been taking it along for car rides on a consistent basis. Many puppies experience motion sickness. This does not necessarily mean that they will vomit or have an upset stomach only. Some puppies will do neither, and instead, decrease their eating to the point of losing weight. If this is the case, limit the amount of time your puppy spends traveling in a car. This will allow your puppy to have you as a reference point and a distraction. Provide a small puppy bed on the seat. Make sure that the temperature in the car is neither too hot or cold. Pay attention to how you drive. Often times we take our driving for granted without considering the comfort of our passengers. Puppies can be especially sensitive during car rides, so be sure to take turns gently, and do not brake or accelerate suddenly. A change in the environment is a common cause of a longer-term loss of appetite and weight loss in puppies. A change in environment for your puppy does not just mean that it has moved from one physical location to another. They learn and function well with routine. This can sometimes result in a long term lack of appetite and weight loss. You may likely find that if one or more of the above changes are addressed, that your puppy will resume a normal eating schedule and quickly bounce back from being underweight. Your GSD puppy needs adequate nutrients in its diet for growth and to maintain a healthy weight. GSDs are considered medium to large-sized dogs, and they need to be fed the appropriate breed-formulated dog food, especially as puppies. If you are not feeding it the right formulation for its breed size, this can result in undernourishment and a skinny puppy.