labradoodle puppy growth chart calculator

Height: 26 inches Ratio: .This should give you their height. For example, 26 inches times 0. Using the other example, .Since each dog is going to be different, you need to look at their overall body condition rather than a weight range. Fortunately, there are body conditioning charts that you can use to figure out if your German Shepherd is at their ideal weight. Just look at them from the side and from above, feeling for ribs and pelvic bones when necessary. Younger dogs will also typically be on the thin side before they fully fill out as adults. Years of line breeding has produced several distinct types of Shepherds. Show dogs are known for a sloped back in which the back legs are shorter than the front. This unnatural formation can cause back and hip problems along with an abnormal gait. German Shepherds bred for show will also be thinner than their hardworking cousins. As you can see in this picture, this is a show-bred German Shepherd with an obvious curved back and short back legs. Working dogs, on the other hand, are bred for a sturdy, straight back so they can work long hours without getting sore. They tend to be thicker than show dogs and will, therefore, weigh more, even at the same height. As you can see in this picture, this dog has a straighter back and longer back legs, so it has been bred for working. Something else I wanted to mention here is that, according to some sources, Black German Shepherds are larger than their bi-colored cousins, despite being otherwise the same. So, if you have one of these rare and beautiful creatures, you can follow the same charts that were listed above. If your German Shepherd is diagnosed by a veterinarian as underweight or overweight for their age, then the first thing you should do is ask him or her to help you figure out the underlying cause of the problem. This will determine what should be done next. Do you have a giant German Shepherd? What about a tiny one? Comment below to tell us more about it! About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. American German shepherds have straighter backs then German shepherds. If you have a german shepherd and their lineages are close to their German roots they will have that arch in their back. How about some details regarding their feeding habits, behavior, medical needs, grooming regimen, and exercise requirements? In this section, you will find everything you need to know to keep them healthy and assist with things such as toilet training and teething. She will discipline them and make sure they learn to be independent. They then begin to go to the toilet independently and venture away from mom. At week 8, they play, can be housebroken, and bark when startled. The famous GSD ears will start to stand up, and you can begin leash and crate training. They must be handled and groomed and realize that human commands and dominance are the norm. During this time, the mother will nurse the pups until they are old enough to begin eating puppy mush , which is softened kibble. Allow puppies to eat as much as they like at each meal. At 6—8 weeks, their first shot from the vet is due. Smith, Shutterstock 12 weeks is a turning point for your pup. Their coordination will come on in bounds, as will their learning and social skills. They will be eager to learn but easily distracted, so have plenty of patience. If you become angry, it will stunt development if they become fearful of you. Your pup is officially into the juvenile period now. All of his puppy teeth should be developed by now and are normally very sharp. So, beware of your fingers when playing. At 12 weeks of age, puppies can start to eat three to four set meals a day with measured amounts. Purpose-made dog-approved chew toys are best, not teddy bears or old shoes. As they grow through this period between three and six months, GSD puppies are more juvenile than babies. They will be more boisterous and energetic. But on the plus side will feed easily, be more friendly with animals and people alike, and more than likely be housetrained if you have managed them correctly. They will be stubborn at this age when training and could ignore you, or not come when called. The best approach is to ignore any sassy attitude and only praise and fuss when back to being obedient. His internal organs and systems are fully developed and functioning as they should, while the skeleton is still growing. His full set of adult teeth should be present and correct. Your GSD is now becoming independent and will want to roam different areas and interact with their world on many more levels. Be aware that they could weigh 50 lbs at 6 months, so caution is needed with control and safety as they explore. He may also seemingly forget commands that he has been taught. It is best to ignore, not mollycoddle, any fearful reactions to new things to not reinforce the negative behaviors. By 6 months of age, you can reduce the feedings to three per day, now paying attention to the total calories consumed. Between the ages of 4—6 months, he will shed his puppy coat too. He might still be a bit goofy, gangly, and stubborn when it comes to training. German Shepherd females are reaching sexual maturity at this age. They may have their first estrus heat period. So, be mindful of letting them off the lead during this time if other dogs are around. At 9 months, your GSD can be tested for heartworm and treated if needs be. Speak with your vet about this for more detail. You can add small amounts of solid adult formula into the puppy food to get him used to the texture. Making it the optimal time to stimulate them as much as you can with obedience training and work activities. Your GSD should be comfortable in all situations, and with all types of company as their bond with humans should be well established. Their unique personality and quirks should be apparent and set them apart as your dog. They will have developed vocal and body language traits that you recognize and use for their needs. If male, he will be reaching sexual maturity and cocking his leg when urinating. He might also be looking to challenge dogs and humans for the title of pack leader. The key to cementing all your hard work so far is to be consistently firm with any boundaries he tries to push. By 12 months, they should be on adult formula only. German Shepherds stop growing between 2 and 3 years. This is when they fill out too. It starts to slow at around the age of 1, but he will continue to grow until he reaches maturity. During this time, they are considered to be adolescents. This is the same for their mental maturity too. This is the same for all German Shepherd types. Females tend to mature faster, both physically and mentally, than male German Shepherds. There are different stages within this time frame before maturity. And these are the neonatal stage 1—2 weeks , the transitional stage 2—4 weeks , the socialization stage 4 weeks to 3 months , the juvenile stage 3—6 months , and the adolescent stage 6 months to 2 years. Research has shown that neutering dogs can affect their growth. But how exactly? But early indications show that early neutering can increase the length of time that the bone grows. Meaning potentially taller dogs. But this also poses questions about whether this affects the joint alignment and whether it can cause any problems. And for the German Shepherd breed and his heightened propensity for hip dysplasia, this is a concern to be aware of. But waiting for full skeletal maturity also poses risks. Because neutering for females can reduce mammary cancer. If spayed before her first heat, it can eliminate the chances of this type of cancer altogether. As they will be able to offer you tailored advice for your German Shepherd. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth The dangers of growing too fast can affect their skeletal development. Conditions caused by growing too quickly are joint dysplasia and osteochondrosis. By feeding him a kibble that is designed for large-breed puppies will help control the rate at which his bones grow. This is because they have the optimum ratio of calcium and phosphorus levels in the food. So, always feed him large-breed puppy food during his developmental stage. This is most common in German Shepherds, but also in some Labrador Retrievers. It is an inherited disorder of growth hormone deficiency, and it will make the affected pooch always appear puppy-like. Growth Distinctions of Different German Shepherds. As the German Shepherd growth chart suggests, a German Shepherd dog reaches full size and adult weight after one year. A growth spurt can occur between 1. The result of this late growth is an up to 10 percent increase in height and weight. Although you can consider a German Shepherd fully grown by one year, there may be additional factors that influence the growth of German Shepherd dogs. Is Your German Shepherd Healthy? Improper development can occur for many reasons. It could be as simple as your dog responding poorly to their dog food. Your feeding schedule and portions might not be sufficient. Your dog could also have a basic nutritional deficiency that you need to correct. Yet, being underweight or overweight can signify serious health problems. Weight loss can occur when the syndrome develops. Dogs typically show signs of EPI at between six months and six years of age. Parasites Dogs are highly susceptible to parasites. Deworming medication helps to reduce the risk. Yet, almost all puppies experience a parasitic infection at least once. Upon infection, your dog is at risk of serious weight loss and other troubling symptoms. Diabetes Mellitus Diabetes mellitus can affect any breed but has an above-average occurrence in German Shepherds. These dogs need insulin daily to accommodate for the inability to metabolize sugars. If your German has diabetes, severe weight loss can occur in a short period. Diabetes typically affects canines that are four years or older. It is the most common cancer in German Shepherds. Up to three percent will develop HSA. In most cases, this condition sets in at around nine to 12 years. Dietary Deficiency Do you have your German Shepherd on a raw food diet? Puppies often run underweight when receiving their nutritional requirements through raw meat. This diet is healthy and effective but needs monitoring, as not all dogs respond the same. Review the diet plan with a veterinarian and confirm there are no digestive or metabolic issues. Also, do not forget the importance of exercise! Clear Your Concerns with Coverage You put your heart into loving your dog like a child, but some things are out of your control. Health struggles can affect canines as much as humans. Even purebreds from AKC-certified breeders are not safe from serious health struggles both early and late in life. All you can do is prepare yourself to overcome complications. What if cancer happens? What else could happen? Peace of mind is great as a dog owner. Is coverage the answer? Get pet insurance quotes and see for yourself. Get Quotes for Your Cat Charitable Giving With every pet insurance policy we generate, we do our bit to help less fortunate animals across Canada and the U. Popular Articles. Frequently Asked Questions German Shepherds German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most popular breeds and are my absolute favorite breed. That's why I've had five in total, three boys and two girls. From their loyal and obedient personalities to their beautiful coats and markings, they bring joy to many homes, including mine. With impressive intelligence, these puppies are easy to train and make excellent companion animals. The German shepherd is a large breed, usually weighing between pounds for males and up to 75 pounds for females. Their coats require minimal grooming but will benefit from occasional brushing. German shepherds are very active dogs who love to run around; they need plenty of exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. They also enjoy activities such as agility training or nose work games where they can use their smarts! Factors Influencing Weight But what about their size? German shepherds can vary in size based on gender, age, nutrition, and because of their breeding. For example, a German working line shepherd is much more energetic than the more laid-back American show line dog. A puppy from working lines may weigh less than the average on the charts. Be sure to consider factors such as gender and environment when monitoring your pup's development. A good rule of thumb is that by eight weeks of age, a German Shepherd puppy should weigh between pounds, depending on the genetic factors mentioned above. By six months, most male puppies will weigh between 49lbs — 57lbs with an average weight of 53lbs, and a female will weigh between 44lbs — 49lbs with an average weight of 46lbs. For this reason, when consulting a weight chart for a German shepherd puppy, it's essential to understand the breed, lineage, and pedigree of the dog, as well as the sex of the dog. Our puppy weight charts are specific to German Shepherd Dogs and consider all these factors. It's an excellent tool for monitoring your pup's growth and health. These charts show the average expected weight range for male and female German shepherds at different ages, from puppies to adults. Knowing the expected range can help ensure your pup grows normally and stays within healthy boundaries. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. Our chart differs from others in that you can track your puppy's weight based on his actual weight at a point in time. Many other weight charts are either for non-specific breeds, or if they are specific to a German Shepherd, they only give you the averages and a range. While this is all useful and included in our charts, what is missing from many others is what weight your puppy will likely be based on his actual weight now. Most people bring their new puppy home at 8 weeks old 2 months. The range for a female German Shepherd puppy at that age is between lbs. As you already know your puppy's weight, you can estimate how much they are likely to weigh when older using our chart. For example, if your puppy weighs 14 lbs at 8 weeks old. To estimate how much they are likely to weigh at 6 months old, you would find that weight on the chart and follow it down to the 6-month-old row and see that she would most likely weigh 46lbs by the time she is 6 months old and 68lbs when fully grown. Of course, these are just estimates, and all puppies grow at different speeds, as will yours. Another way this chart is helpful is if, using the same example, your puppy weighs 14 lbs at 8 weeks old and then jumps to 49 lbs at 6 months old, instead of the predicted 46 lbs. In that situation, you would follow that new column down and see that she is now closer to weighing 70 lbs when fully grown. They are heavier-boned, more muscular, and have deeper chests. If you know what you're looking for, you can distinguish a male from a female German shepherd by looking at their heads, as a male is larger and have a more masculine look. Using the German Shepherd Puppy Weight Charts To use this chart, find your pup's current weight along the top and go down the left side of the chart to find his age. If he is in range, you can follow that column down to see what he will likely weigh at each age milestone. For example, if your male German Shepherd puppy weighs 18 lbs at 8 weeks old, then you would find the nearest weight at that age on the chart. In this case, it's .In this instance, he would weigh approximately .Under no circumstances should you try to adjust your dog's diet or exercise to fit in with the chart; it is merely a guide. German Shepherd Weight Chart for Female Puppies Female German shepherds, on the whole, have a much narrower head and nose and have an overall feminine look, especially around the eyes. If you know what you're looking for, you can guess whether they are male or female by looking at their face. Having said that, my girl, Ava, was very tall for a female and was often mistaken for a boy, even when she was wearing her pink collar and leash! But I still think her face was much more feminine than her brother Hudson's. This breed of dog has unique growth development. During the first three months of their life, a German Shepherd's body goes through a significant growth spurt. Typically, they can double their birth weight in the first week! At 12 weeks, you can expect your pup to weigh about pounds for a male and pounds for a female. This growth spurt will continue through five months old; by the time they're six months, you'll likely have a large, goofy puppy on your hands. After that initial growth period is over, you'll find that your German shepherd will gain weight slowly from then on out until it reaches its full adult size at around two or three years old. On average, female German Shepherds reach an adult weight of pounds, while males reach pounds. German Shepherd Puppy Height Chart German shepherds come in a range of sizes, some taller than others. It can be helpful to know the different heights of German shepherds to ensure that the one you choose fits your lifestyle and needs. When looking at a German shepherd height chart, it's essential to remember that males tend to be larger than females. Depending on where they were bred, most standard-sized male adults will stand between inches, while female adult German shepherds typically reach inches in height from paw to shoulder. Below is our height chart for German shepherd puppies you can use to estimate your puppy's height at each age milestone based on his starting or current height. It also includes the average percentage of adult height reached each age milestone. If your puppy's weight is outside the guidelines, it may be less of an issue than you think. Puppy weights can vary greatly depending on breed, genetics, and other factors included on this page. While ensuring your puppy receives proper nutrition and exercise is essential, several factors can influence their weight. One way to determine your puppy's adult weight is to check with your breeder. They can make an educated guess as to what your furry friend will weigh once they reach adulthood. A reputable breeder should have a good understanding of their dog's genetics and be able to provide insight into the typical size range of their litter. This information can give you a rough estimate of what weight you can expect for your German shepherd as they grow older. Another factor to consider when determining the adult weight of your pup is their parents' size, and again the breeder can give you much more information on this. You can also speak with your veterinarian about your puppy's overall health and development, and they may be able to provide some insight into their expected adult size. It's important to avoid becoming too fixated on your puppy's weight if they fall outside the standard guidelines. Don't worry if your puppy is a little bigger or smaller than listed here, and if you still want to determine their adult weight, you can also use the puppy weight chart for a large or giant breed dog here. Conclusion In conclusion,German Shepherds are a fantastic breed of dogs, and understanding their growth and development is essential for pet owners. Knowing the average weight and height of male and female German Shepherds can help you be better prepared for your new pup's growth. With the proper diet, exercise, and vet care, your German shepherd will be healthy and happy throughout their life. Keep in mind that these charts are only a general guide — every pup is different! A 3-month-old German Shepherd should weigh between 17 lbs - 26 lbs for a female, with an average weight of .For males, it'll be between 22 lbs and 30 lbs, with an average of 26 lbs. How much does a 5 month old German Shepherd puppy weigh? A 5-month-old puppy will weigh between 40 lbs - 49 lbs for a male with an average weight of .A female GSD puppy will weigh between 35 lbs - 44 lbs with an average of .When will my German shepherd puppy stop growing? Most German shepherd puppies continue growing until they are two or three years old. You might like these. Tweet How big will my German Shepherd get? Along with hundreds of submissions from others lucky enough to be owned by a GSD. What the heck is FCI? Keep in mind that dog growth can be affected by genetics and environment, so take that into consideration when comparing your pup to the data in the German Shepherd growth chart. What is the normal size of a German Shepherd puppy? A German Shepherd dam will normally whelp give birth to between six and eight puppies. Puppy Growth Chart A healthy large breed puppy will normally double her birth weight during the first week. And moderates to an ultimate weight of around 70 times the puppy's birth weight. Check the puppy growth chart for an explanation of the different puppy development stages and puppy growth rate. German Shepherds normally reach physical maturity at months. Curiously, some Eastern European lines mature more slowly and do not reach full maturity until 36 months of age. Their growth rate slows noticeably at 6 months and continues minimally after .Puppy to adult in 40 seconds Here is a great time lapse video that shows GSD Dunder's growth from 8 weeks to 1 year. Standard, MO. If you have any doubt that your puppy is not changing according to the above German Shepherd growth chart, the best thing to do would be to contact your trusted vet. If you are providing adequate exercise and quality dog food , your German Shepherd's dog growth should be normal and she will have no trouble reaching her full potential. Not sure if you're feeding your GSD enough? Check out this breed specific dog food calculator to make sure. Is your GSD growing by the numbers? How is your pup progressing? Enter The Title of Your puppy growth story ex. Just type! Your story will appear on a Web page exactly the way you enter it here. You can wrap a word in square brackets to make it appear bold. For example [my story] would show as my story on the Web page containing your story. TIP: Since most people scan Web pages, include your best thoughts in your first paragraph. Show off your puppy! Click the button and find it on your computer. Then select it. Note: Submissions without at least one picture, will likely not be published. Your Name. However, there are certain breeds that are easier to train than others. Thankfully, German Shepherds fit into that category because they are very intelligent and quick learners. This includes house training , crate training , basic obedience commands as well as learning tricks. We recommend attending a puppy kindergarten class as part of your German Shepherd puppy socialization strategy. Once your pup knows their basic obedience commands, you can enroll them in Schutzhund training aka IPO. Partnership and teamwork between yourself and your dog are the basis for this type of training. Note that the Schutzhund environment is not a place for dogs with aggression issues, neither towards other dogs nor people! If they pass that initial level which includes a temperament test, they can move on to IPO 2 minimum age 19 months and IPO 3 minimum age 20 months. That said, protection dog trainers recommend starting training classes that include bitework and high jumps once your German Shepherd puppy is 12 months old. Dutch and Czech are two other languages that commands are frequently taught in. Stanley, my former long-haired GSD dog walking client, started going to Schutzhund training when he was a little over 12 months old. His owners practiced commands in German with him on a daily basis, and I remember getting a print out of his German commands as they asked me to use them on our walks as well. Lots, ha! German Shepherds need a minimum of 2 hours of physical exercise per day, but generally speaking, the more exercise you can provide your GSD with, the more they will thrive. Remember, German Shepherds are high-energy, athletic dogs bred to be active all day long, especially if they come from a working line! Physical Exercise Ideas for German Shepherds As far as physical exercise, this can be a mix of walks, runs, bike rides, fetch and playtime. This is Nala, one of my former pet sitting clients. She was crazy about frisbees and balls. One of my favorite ways of increasing the energy and calories a dog burns on a regular walk or hike is by using a doggie backpack. Mental Stimulation for German Shepherds Besides providing a good physical workout, dog backpacks also burn mental energy. As you probably know, bored dogs can quickly become destructive as they figure out ways of entertaining themselves. For example, chewing up your furniture and shoes, scratching doors, raiding your kitchen trash can or digging up your flower beds. So do yourself a favor and make sure your GSD gets plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Remember, a tired dog is a good dog, and that applies to German Shepherds as much as it does to any other dog breed! Former GSD client Remi pooped after a long walk. Bottom Line So, how big does a German Shepherd get? Well, German Shepherds are medium to large size dogs, so they can weigh anywhere between lbs. That said, the average expected weight for a male GSD is between lbs, and the average expected weight for a female GSD is between lbs. Both reach sexual maturity somewhere between months and are considered fully grown at about the 2 year mark. Keeping that in mind, your GSD breeder should be able to give you a good general idea of how big your German Shepherd puppy will grow to be! Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Barbara is a trilingual, something dog lover, e-book author, founder, copywriter, dog nutrition blogger and editor at K9sOverCoffee. Post navigation.

German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Welcome to our German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Different breeds like all different babies develop at different rates. There are going to be many exciting events for you to look forward to. Whether you are bringing your 8 week German Shepherd puppy home or about to be blessed with a litter of puppies. This is going to be an exciting, demanding but hugely rewarding journey. Newborn puppies are born at around days after fertilization. Newborn puppies are born with their ears and eyes tightly sealed. The reason eyelids are sealed shut is to form a protective barrier for the fragile developing eye. This helps to protect them from any foreign object, bright lights, bacteria or any other microorganism that can cause disease or damage. In the same way puppies ear canals are closed at birth to make them effectively deaf. This is a protective barrier to protect the fragile underdeveloped machinery needed to hear. In a mature ear the pressure caused by sound will mechanically move structures in the ear. German Shepherd puppies are highly dependent upon their noses. Puppies navigate by smell from the moment they are born. This helps them to identify their mom, the very important milk supply, siblings and surroundings. Newborn puppies are born with a fur coat however they cannot control their own body temperature yet. To keep them warm they are dependant on their mothers or another heat source. If you live in a cooler climate installing a heat lamp would be ideal to help keep the puppies nice and warm. Germans Shepherds make amazing mothers and will be relied on a lot at this stage. Mother dogs will only leave their newborn puppies to go to the toilet, eat and drink. However, when mom has gone the newborn puppies are not completely useless. They are able to use their front paws to drag themselves towards a heat source. When mom is away the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat. Along with being able to drag themselves to a heat source newborn puppies are also able to drag themselves to their mothers to locate the milk supply. They will move their heads around to search for a nipple, latch on and suck strongly. Newborn puppies are not born with teeth these will also develop in the next several weeks. Other than the above puppies are completely dependent upon the care of their dedicated mom. Newborn puppies have little control over the rear end of their bodies. To encourage their pups to pass urine and bowel movements the mom will lick their bottoms. Anything produced mom will then lick up and swallow to keep her puppies and nest clean. Some pups will even double their birth weight! Your German Shepherd puppy will still be highly dependent upon their mom at this stage. Beneath all their fur the vital organs will be working hard to mature. This includes the eyes. Your puppy will not be ready to open their eyes yet but lots of changes are taking place to prepare them for grand opening. The ear canals will begin to open around the same time as the eyes. When the ear canals do open, the ears are much more formed than the eyes are at this point in time. Their eyesight usually takes around 8 weeks to reach its full potential. When their eyes become wider, they will reveal blueish-gray eyes which are hazy in appearance. Their eyesight will continue to develop until around 8 weeks old. The ear canals will also open around 2 weeks. The puppies hearing has been developing much quicker than their eyesight and they will be able to hear most things by the time their ear canals fully open. However, their amazing hearing ability will continue to enhance over the next several weeks. At the moment your German Shepherd puppy will have cute floppy ears. Their adorable tall ears can come up anywhere between 8 weeks and 6 months of age. Floppy ears are common until your German Shepherd finishes teething. By then the ear cartilage will become strong and hard enough for the ears to stand up permanently. Now is a good time to start handling the puppies and get them used to your voice. Most puppies are wormed for the first time when they are 2 weeks old. All this development has happened so quickly, but things are about to get even more exciting. Between 2 and 4 weeks your German Shepherd puppy will begin to stand up this is when the real fun begins. Puppies milky teeth will also start to develop between 2 to 4 weeks. These sharp little teeth will remain until about weeks of age. These little daggers play an important role during the weaning process. Even the most patient moms will struggle to nurse with these sharp painful teeth. This reluctance to nurse will prompt the German Shepherds to seek alternative food sources. These sharp teeth will then help to make up for the lack of jaw strength when eating solid foods. Finally, these sharp puppy teeth play an important role in teaching the pups to gauge their bite pressure when playing with their mom and siblings. This is an essential life lesson that enables our powerful German Shepherds to become safer companions as they mature into strong adult dogs. During the last few weeks mom has done an amazing job of getting her babies strong and their mobility will have come on leaps and bounds well not quite yet but by 3 weeks of age your German Shepherd puppy will begin to trotter around. Most 3 week old German Shepherd puppies can stand and sit. With their baby teeth starting to cut through a lot of breeders. Especially those with large litters will start introducing some solid foods. This helps relieve some of the pressure for the devoted German Shepherd mom. When weaning puppies, you need to start off by soaking their food in either water or puppy milk replacement formula to make it mushy and more comfortable for them to eat. As they start to interact and play with their siblings their personalities will really start to show. You may also notice them starting to playfully growl at each other. At 3 weeks old it will become easier to start identifying different members of the pack. Breeders and moms will be kept on their toes and paws over the next few weeks. As the pups start getting more confident on their feet they will be running around and playing enthusiastically. At 4 weeks old they will begin to wag their adorable little tails. With solid food becoming a major part of their diet the pups will be passing bigger bowel movements. They will be able to show more control of their bowel movements as they take themselves away from their brothers and sisters to perform their business. At this stage mom will be taking a much more relaxed approach to parenting and there will be a lot more for the breeder to clear up. By this point mealtimes are a messy process. If it is warm and safe enough to do so we would recommend taking the pups out in the yard for feeding. German Shepherd puppies are becoming a lot stronger at vocalisations by 4 weeks old. When mom returns to her babies the litter will noisily greet her. Around 4 weeks of age your puppies will need to be wormed again. From this week onwards human interaction is very important in order to form relationships with people. Including different noises and smells. This exposure will ensure your German Shepherd puppy turns into a confident, friendly individual. Mom will also be doing an important job of teaching her puppies to not bite too hard. Even an 8 week old German Shepherd puppy would have the power in their jaws to break the smaller bones in humans fingers. This is why mom teaching her puppies bite inhibition is so important. For more information on bite inhibition please see our guide on German Shepherd bite inhibition. By 5 weeks old German Shepherd puppies will be eating a lot of solid foods, several times throughout the day. Those sharp little teeth would have done their job and mom will be gradually weaning her pups of the dependency on her milk. When mom does feed her puppies, she will only do so for a short period whilst standing up. They will be eating between five and six small meals a day. Although the pups no longer rely on mom for milk, they still need her help and guidance for the next few weeks. Mom will be teaching her babies important life skills to live alongside humans. In some countries 6 week old puppies are taken away from their mothers and moved into their new home. We would not recommend this as the puppies will miss out on continued bite inhibition training from their siblings and mother. This can result in a puppy who bites too hard which can be challenging to manage as they get older. In the USA your puppy will be due their first combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 6 weeks old. This vaccine helps to immunizes your puppy against hepatitis, parvo, distemper, parainfluenza and coronavirus. Most puppies will also need to be wormed again at 6 weeks old. Their last week together will consist of plenty of socialization and playing. Most breeders will arrange a 7 week health check up with the vet to make sure your bundle of fluff is fit and healthy to go to their new home. In the UK some breeders will arrange for the pups first 8 week vaccination to take place during this check. Although some vets advise against it. By the end of this week German Shepherd puppies are ready to leave their mothers and move into their new homes for good. The week you get to take your new puppy home. This will be a very exciting time, but you may also be feeling a bit nervous. There will be some challenged along the way for new puppy owners and your puppy will take some time to adjust to life without its mother and siblings. In the UK the first combined vaccination will help to immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. The first puppy injection in the UK typically will happen between 8 and 10 weeks. Some breeders would have trained the puppies to poop and pee on newspapers or puppy pads. From the moment you get them home it is important to show your German Shepherd puppy where to pee and poop. Puppies naturally like to pee where they have done so before so to avoid building history of peeing in your home is best if you can to avoid it. The more you can avoid accidents from happening as much as possible from the start the faster the puppy training process should be. All puppies are different, and some will get this quicker than others. The main thing to remember is not to discipline your puppy for accidents. The most successful way to potty train is to reward success and ignore accidents. Just clean them up quickly and thoroughly. Your puppy will love nothing more than being praised. For more information please see our guide on How to potty train your German Shepherd puppy. Already your German Shepherd puppy will feel like part of the family. German Shepherds puppies are always adorable but at 9 weeks they are at the age where they are still puppy-like but very clumsy,curious and keen to play with her new family, which is very cute. Your German Shepherds unique personality will make you feel very proud. At 9 weeks your cheeky German Shepherd pup will be feeling more confident, with this the need to explore everything and anything may end up getting them into trouble. Your puppy will develop new sleeping patterns and feeding routines which you will need to adapt to. Most puppies will sleep between eighteen and twenty hours a day at 9 weeks old. During the day when you are with your puppy generally you will not need to shut them away in a crate to nap. German Shepherd puppies are often more than happy to sleep whilst family life goes on around them. However, there will be times when sleeping in a crate is better and safer for your puppy. You must not leave a 9 week old puppy to sleep outside the crate if you are not home to watch them if they wake. Puppies are into everything and many innocent items found in the house could be a potential hazard to your inquisitive pup. For more information please see our guide on how to puppy proof your home. Even if your puppy can barely keep their eyes open other pups and children will still want to play and your German Shepherd puppy may find it hard to refuse. After a hard day of play the peace and quiet of a crate will enable your pup to have a well-deserved nap. If your German Shepherd puppy does need to go to the toilet in the night make sure you keep it short and to a minimum. Establishing a daily routine is the best way to get your German Shepherd puppy to sleep through the night. Part of this schedule will involve mealtimes. Your 9 week old puppy will need four meals a day. Split these up throughout the day and try to stick to similar times. This is to stop encouraging your puppy to wake up earlier and earlier because they associate waking with food. You should always reward your puppy either vocally, with a favourite toy or treats for good behaviour and ignore bad behaviour. Puppies and dogs want to be praised so they respond very well to positive encouragement. Punishing puppies and dogs may have a short term positive effect on their behaviour but long term you could be setting them up to fail. It is very important to socialise and expose your puppy to other humans, dogs and different scenarios whilst they are young. This maybe hard before your puppy has had all its vaccines however getting many different people to come and visit you at your home will enable them to get used to visitors. Before their full vaccinations you can also, you can take you German Shepherd puppy out and about with you to expose them to the outside world as long as you can carry them. If you live in the USA, your puppy will be due their second combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 9 weeks old. In the USA a minimum of three sets of the combined vaccine are required for your puppy. Although you cannot put your puppy down outside until after their final vaccination. Puppies 10 week injection In the UK is a booster vaccination to help immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. Check with your vet what date after their jabs your German Shepherd puppy will be able to go down outside. Your puppy will then need a booster between 6 and 12 months old. If you live in the USA at 12 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be due their booster for the combined 5in1 vaccine against hepatitis, distemper, parainfluenza, parvo and coronavirus and a vaccine against rabies and leptospirosis. If you live in a high risk area, they may also need to be given the vaccination to help immunize them against Lyme. If applicable at 16 weeks your German Shepherd puppy may need to have a fourth combined 5in1 vaccine. A minimum of three combined injections are required in the USA. Check with your vet what date they will be able to be out down outside. By 10 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be able to control their bladder a lot more. Potentially up to several hours. This is great time for you to introduce them to the big wide world and develop their social skills which you have already been building the foundations. When taking your German Shepherd puppy out try to introduce them to as many other friendly dogs, humans and noises you can. This will help your German Shepherd puppy to grown into a confident well-rounded dog. At 3 months old your German Shepherd will go down from four daily meals to three. These three portions will be larger than what they are used to which may cause stomach upset. If your German Shepherd puppy does get an upset stomach, try going back to four smaller meals for a couple of days and they try the three larger portions again. This can be a challenging time as your adorable German Shepherd puppy turns into a furry crocodile. Luckily the teething stage is only a phase as with human babies and short lived. In most cases your puppy biting should stop around when they are around 7 months old and have their adult teeth. You maybe noticing your German Shepherds gorgeous ears fluctuating between floppy and pointy. By the time your puppy has finished teething their ears should tick up all the way. This usually happens around months. As they grow their cartilage becomes stronger. Some puppies need another month or so to help them cope without going out for frequent toilet breaks. Even when your German Shepherd puppy is toilet trained occasional accidents are normal. German Shepherds do have large ears but they tend to grow into them as they get older. German Shepherd puppies will begin to grow their new adult coat between 4 and 6 months old. To make way for their adult coat all the puppy hair has to go. For several weeks you will notice an increase in shedding. This is a completely normal part of growing up for your German Shepherd. Being a double coat breed German Shepherds dogs have a topcoat and an undercoat. Twice a year your pup will shed their undercoat. Usually in spring and again in fall. They also shed in general days a year so be prepared for a lot of fur! They will very much look like a smaller version of their adult selves. Although your German Shepherd may look older on the inside, they are still very much a puppy. If you are looking to get your puppy neutered or spayed the recommended age is 6 to 9 months. However, it is common for some female puppies to get spayed at 4 months old. Summary: Your German Shepherd is bound to give you so much joy and happiness throughout its life. There will be challenges along the way but remember this is completely normal. German Shepherds are such an amazing breed and you will have a loyal friend for life. Related Posts. Height: 26 inches Ratio: .This should give you their height. For example, 26 inches times 0. Using the other example, .Since each dog is going to be different, you need to look at their overall body condition rather than a weight range. Fortunately, there are body conditioning charts that you can use to figure out if your German Shepherd is at their ideal weight. Just look at them from the side and from above, feeling for ribs and pelvic bones when necessary. Younger dogs will also typically be on the thin side before they fully fill out as adults. Years of line breeding has produced several distinct types of Shepherds. Show dogs are known for a sloped back in which the back legs are shorter than the front. This unnatural formation can cause back and hip problems along with an abnormal gait. German Shepherds bred for show will also be thinner than their hardworking cousins. As you can see in this picture, this is a show-bred German Shepherd with an obvious curved back and short back legs. Working dogs, on the other hand, are bred for a sturdy, straight back so they can work long hours without getting sore. They tend to be thicker than show dogs and will, therefore, weigh more, even at the same height. As you can see in this picture, this dog has a straighter back and longer back legs, so it has been bred for working. Something else I wanted to mention here is that, according to some sources, Black German Shepherds are larger than their bi-colored cousins, despite being otherwise the same. So, if you have one of these rare and beautiful creatures, you can follow the same charts that were listed above. If your German Shepherd is diagnosed by a veterinarian as underweight or overweight for their age, then the first thing you should do is ask him or her to help you figure out the underlying cause of the problem. This will determine what should be done next. Do you have a giant German Shepherd? What about a tiny one? Comment below to tell us more about it! About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. American German shepherds have straighter backs then German shepherds. If you have a german shepherd and their lineages are close to their German roots they will have that arch in their back. Puppyhood The first growth phase — puppyhood — has six development stages. During each of these stages, a puppy learns a lot of things. Neonatal Stage This period lasts from birth to 13 days. The puppy needs a lot of nursing from its mom because it is rather helpless. Its ears and eyes are closed, so it does not have any senses. The little pups should completely rely on their mothers for nourishment and care. By 2 weeks, they double their birth weight. They start crawling, and then their eyes and ears begin to open. The first milk teeth appear. The puppy can even stand up, but too unstably and shakily. This makes it possible for little ones to hear, smell, and taste. They even try to walk. Their baby teeth continue growing. The period between weeks is also called a transitional one. At the end of the third week, the motor skills start developing fast. The puppy can already control its temperature and body, namely, bowel movements. It begins to interact with its littermates. Nevertheless, the pup is still largely dependent on its mother. Though, you can interact with it. At the end of this period, the little cub is ready to explore the world. Its baby teeth are almost complete, and it can stand up more stably. It starts barking and growling a bit. The puppy grows quickly now. It actively interacts with its littermates. The baby dog can walk, and its baby teeth are complete. You can also consider the German Shepherd behavior stages from now. Its mental development starts because it discovers the world actively with its senses. Its walking improves, and it can make attempts to run, so it can even sometimes get in trouble. The puppy can start eating dog food. That is why it is important to begin weaning. The little one can recognize and greet its littermates and people, get interested in new things, and continue to explore the world. However, at this age, the first fear period can be experienced. Read our detailed guide about 6 week old German Shepherd puppy. It is the best period for taking your pet home. This period can be psychologically traumatic, so be careful not to expose the pet to direct sunlight because it may be afraid of it for its entire life. All the fears need your special attention. You need to nurture, but not encourage them. Read our detailed guide about 2 month old German Shepherd puppy. So, your puppy is three months old now. It is playful and active. Its teeth are complete. It is weaned and eats dog food. The feeding recommendation here is the overall one and a half cups, three times a day. It is also time to get your pet vaccinated against distemper and parvovirus. At the end of the third month, your little GSD can simulate its behavior after other dogs and humans. Training can start. Read our detailed guide about 3 month old German Shepherd puppy. Your puppy already has all its baby teeth, and adult canines and incisors begin to push through. It can even try to bite or nip you. The puppy coat begins to disappear and gets ready for replacement by the adult double-layer coat. You can see a racing stripe on its spine where the adult hair will grow. The puppy displays quick growth at this time, and it becomes stronger to withstand the possible fierce competition with its siblings if it is still staying with its family. It needs a lot of biting and chewing now for the correct growth of its adult teeth. Your pet needs consistent socialization and potty training now. After three months old, you should think about such vaccination as DHPP — distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. The juvenile phase lasts from 3 to 6 months, and it can be divided into three stages by month. Continue socializing and start more substantial training. You can consult the German Shepherd weight chart here to see whether your pup develops properly. So, be attentive to the games you play with your pet. Some of them can be dangerous and traumatic because your puppy may not know how to manage its body during them. You can give it two cups of kibble totally three times per day because it needs a lot of nutrition to grow. DHPP and rabies vaccines are recommended at this age. Your little pup is ready to explore the world. However, as a true teenager, it can become more stubborn and try not to listen to your commands. It starts to understand dominance and tries to persuade you in its leadership. Read our detailed guide about 4 month old German Shepherd puppy. During this month, it can gain about 10 pounds 4. Its ears have stably perked up by this time. It looks more like an adult dog but, as a true teenager, it is very playful and is always ready to go around. The adult teeth continue to appear. Sexual maturity starts emerging. You should feed your pet around two cups three times per day. A lot of training is also needed. Read our detailed guide about 5 month old German Shepherd puppy. It needs a lot of training and positive reinforcement. Now, your pet is fully house-trained, and it needs a lot of new experiences. The sixth month is a transition period to the Adolescent Phase. The ears are completely upright. Males achieve sexual maturity, while female puppies can experience heat cycles. Hormones start working, and male puppies can start marking the territory and looking for females to mate. The adult coat grows longer and gets its normal double layers. Adult teething is about to finish, and all 42 teeth appear. You should feed your dog with the overall two or three cups two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 6 month old German Shepherd puppy. Adolescence Phase Months German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years 36 months old. Females become adults when they are 2 years 24 months old. However, these criteria differ for every puppy. That is why the adolescence phase lasts from the end of the 6th month to the end of the second year of age 24 months on average. By the end of this phase, the puppy reaches its full size though it will continue slightly growing. Your dog can display testing boundaries, so disobedience is widely encountered if the dog is not properly trained. German Shepherds do not look like puppies anymore. Within this period, some dogs can display their second fear period at approximately months old , though to avoid long-lasting psychological trauma, you should ignore the fears. Some dogs may occasionally forget their skills that they have already acquired, so you may need to repeat training again. Here, the reinforced training is useful because some puppies can become entirely rambunctious. Your pet will also need more socialization since it reaches its sexual maturity, and some of its reactions can be pretty unexpected. Its sexual maturity continues, which may cause some aggression because of increases and decreases in hormones. The puppy does not gain weight so fast. Teething is finished. The German Shepherd starts looking more similar to an adult dog, with its standing up ears and well-developed muscles. The food your dog needs involves two or three cups total, given two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 7 month old German Shepherd puppy. It displays a lot of aggression. It can bark or lunge at other animals, kids, and unfamiliar people. A lot of training and reinforcement is needed. You can teach the youngster new tricks to deal with their aggression. The dog has strong adult teeth, and its ears are well-formed and perky. The transition to adulthood continues. As for food, your dog needs two-three cups in total two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 8 month old German Shepherd puppy. It does not grow fast, gaining about a couple of pounds per month. The dog needs two-three cups of food two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 9 month old German Shepherd puppy. They are very active and need a lot of attention and training. Sometimes, they can be really goofy or clumsy because they are still learning and do not know how to behave in many events. Your pup is very smart and clever but tends to display a lot of aggression if not supported and reinforced properly. The dogs should eat two-three cups in total per day. Read our detailed guide about 10 month old German Shepherd pupp y. It starts to challenge you as an owner and likes to demonstrate its leadership. You should teach it to be responsible and obey your commands. A lot of training and reinforcement is crucial. Still, give it two or three cups in total per day. It becomes a bit destructive, but be sure not to get angry or upset with it. It needs your patience and positive attitude. Such vaccines as DHPP and rabies are recommended at this age. It should also transit to adult food. Give it three or three and a half cups total twice a day. Read our detailed guide about 1 year old German Shepherd puppy. Years 1. This time is considered a transition period. The dog may have problems with fears and memory breakdowns. It may even forget how to do familiar things and should be trained again. However, its attention span is longer at this age, so it can have a more thorough obedience training. The dog should eat three or three and a half cups two times a day. Year 2 months — The Second Transition Phase This is one more transition period known as young adulthood. Your dog still displays some aggression. That is why they continue to need reinforcement, training, and socialization. It has already gained its athletic frame and strong muscle, and only several pounds are lacking for reaching its adult weight. In fact, you get a German Shepherd full-grown pet now. The DHPP vaccination is recommended at this age. Continue to feed your dog with three to three and a half cups in total twice per day. It has become a loyal and protective family pet or an obedient and enduring working dog. The young adulthood stage lasts from the second to the third year after the puppy was born. Its size is typical now for an adult dog. However, it may continue to grow slightly, but the changes are not noticeable at all. At this phase, you can also notice that your pet becomes more and more active. It needs a lot of exercise and training. A lot of physical activity is essential for the dog to stay in high spirits. The period between the second and third years of life is also called the adult growth stage. This is the time when your friend gets its excellent breed characteristics. It loves attention very much and continues to learn new things eagerly. The dog enjoys training sessions and strives for new experiences. It becomes calmer and more confident. Its hyperactivity slightly decreases. It displays a lot of self-control and discipline. Continue feeding your dog with three to three and a half cups twice per day. It will be its constant adult diet. Vaccination against rabies is recommended and required by authorities at this age. Seniority Phase This is the last phase of German Shepherd development. It may seem wonderful, but your dog can continue to slightly grow. The phase is divided into two periods — early senior years old and late senior years old. Unfortunately, you need to focus on its health rather than on training. Such health issues as hip dysplasia, joint pain, and decreased stamina can appear at this age. You need to have consultations with your vet more often. During this period, your dog does not change its weight and height considerably. Though, you can observe slight changes in weight. On average, these dogs live years. You need to attend to their health and comfort. The dog may remain energetic and playful, but it slightly slows down. It wants to rest more and gets much calmer. The animal may suffer from some pains, so it may need pain relievers for spine and joint problems and arthritis. It may also need nutritional supplements and changes to its diet. Special senior and sensitive stomach food may become the best choice. Avoid jumping and hard playing. Continuous veterinary monitoring is needed if some symptoms are worsening. The accepted proportion that is considered ideal is .The weight is usually not taken into consideration. If your pet does not correspond to this proportion, there may be a health issue you do not know about yet. That is why you need to monitor the parameters carefully. To be sure that everything is OK, multiply the length of your dog by 0. You will get the perfect height. However, there can be some divergences. If they are minor, you have nothing to worry about. The German Shepherd is rather thin, or even skinny. This results in bad proportions. The ideal weight of your German Shepherd is lbs kg for males and lbs kg for females. You can get either a heavy or obese dog, and it can be a result of overfeeding or certain health issues. How to Check the Weight of Your German Shepherd The simplest method to see whether your dog is underweight is to check whether the ribs are visible on the sides. If you can see that the shape of your dog reminds you of a barrel on the ribs, it means that it is overweight. If you cannot feel the ribs, but there is too much skin on the sides, your dog is overweight. However, if you feel the ribs and only a thin layer of skin, it is underweight. It does not matter whether your dog is underweight or overweight. In any case, it can cause health problems if you do not repair the situation. The best way to succeed is to make changes to the diet. If your German Shepherd is underweight, you should enrich the content of its food. However, do not make it eat if the dog does not want to. That can lead to more severe problems. Make a slow transition to food with higher fat content. Or you may even give your dog puppy food because it is rich in nutrients. If your pet is obviously overweight, the best thing is to cut off the food. However, you also need to do it step by step so that the dog finally can eat just half of the amount you have recently fed it. The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder and an average weight of pounds kg. Nevertheless, some German Shepherds can grow bigger and even reach pounds kg. You need to be sure about its proportions though to understand if your pet meets the standards. If you see some deficiencies, meet your vet for a more thorough evaluation. When does a German Shepherd stop growing? German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years old. Females become adults when they are 2 years old. How tall is a German Shepherd? The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder. An average male reaches inches cm in height, while an average female should be inches cm tall. The body of both males and females should be longer than their height. How big do German Shepherds get? How much does a German Shepherd weight? In general, an average male reaches pounds kg in weight, while an average female should be pounds kg heavy. This is a very strong and brave dog that can become a perfect guardian and protector. If you decide to take a GS puppy, you need to follow its growth stages accurately to be sure that it develops properly. You should follow a high-quality diet, provide your dog with a lot of exercise, and ensure its proper training and socialization. Your German Shepherd cannot stay healthy and active if it gets some health problems related to its weight or height. Sometimes, these issues are not obvious and understandable to the owner. That is why it is important to know the main development parameters of your German Shepherd growth stages to cope with possible challenges. We hope that this article, together with the weight and height chart, will become your effective and helpful guide. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Reliable training German Shepherd puppy training: socialization! The first item in your German Shepherd puppy training list is Socialization. It means that you must provide your baby German Shepherd with interesting and positive interactions. If you ensure that your pup interacts, and has a positive and rewarding experience, with as many people, dogs, animals, sounds, objects, sights and experiences, you will raise a confident and reliable dog. Every new activity or interaction must be followed with a yummy treat! This will ensure your puppy will have a positive association with every new experience, object, person, animal, etc. You can use your dog's kibble or something better like chicken, beef or cheese. Commercial treats are also a good and easy to use option, but make sure you buy healthy, all natural dog treats to keep your German shepherd puppy healthy and strong! German Shepherd dogs are loyal and may have a tendency to be apprehensive with strangers. Socialization will ensure that your puppy grows a strong bond with you without developing a problematic over-protectiveness. German Shepherd puppy training socialization tips: Never separate a puppy from his mother and littermates before the age of weeks. During this time, mom teaches her puppies some important rules of the dog world like body language communication and they start to learn bite inhibition by plying with the other puppies. Unfortunately many vets will tell you not to take your puppy out of the house until they have had all of their shots. This is old school thinking and can have extremely bad consequences that will become apparent only when your canine becomes an adult. Without the full set of shots, your puppy is vulnerable to infectious diseases, however taking your pup to early socialization classes where all other dogs have also been immunized reduces the risk for becoming sick AND will make your German Shepherd a confident, well adjusted and friendlier dog. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior promotes early socialization , even before the full set of vaccines are given to the pup. Take socialization in your own hands. Spend the first 4 weeks holding parties at your home! Yes, parties! Invite all your friends and family for Karaoke, sports watching, boardgames, etc. Ask them to bring their kids too! And always make sure socialization is about positive interactions. If any of the kids or adults make your puppy a little scared, simply remove the threat and let the puppy explore other things. Back to top of German shepherd puppy training article. German Shepherd puppy training: stop the biting! Socialization is hard work, bite-inhibition is even harder! But it is one of the best things you can ever teach your pup. Dogs have really strong jaws and can learn to apply just the right amount of pressure with it. Adult dogs that have had this kind of training can get into fights and defend themselves without drawing blood. This is so important to avoid any type of dog-human or dog-dog bite accidents. German Shepherd puppy dogs have sharp teeth for a reason: to learn how to use their mouth properly. Teach your puppy to bite without hurting! To teach your pooch not to hurt human skin you will need to yelp like a puppy every time you feel teeth in contact with your skin. Engage in puppy play and Yelp Yes! Loud, sharp, high pitched and clear when you feel teeth. Your pup will most likely stop in surprise. As soon as he has stopped, wait seconds and resume play. Repeat as many times as needed. Start with those bites that really hurt or scratch. If you yelp every time you feel teeth, your puppy will think it is how you play. It may take a few weeks for you to notice that your pup is not hurting as much.Progressively teach your pup to play without hurting you. This make take a couple of months! Do not let your puppy play with your clothes, shoes, face or hair. If your puppy bites any of these, the game is over. Wait for him to calm down and start playing again. If you are tired of playing and getting bitten, grab a tug-toy or a ball and play those games instead. After a while, settle your puppy with a stuffed Kong toy on his bed or crate. Never punish your puppy for play-biting, this can lead to aggression or your puppy fearing "hands" near his face. Even though German shepherd puppy dogs are really smart, bite-inhibition requires a lot of repetition and consistency. Most of the time you will feel he is not learning anything at all, keep at it. You can add second time outs on top of yelping if needed. It is definitely worth your time. If bite-inhibition is slow, this article has more tips to help you! Another aspect of training your German shepherd puppy bite inhibition are toys! Your pup needs to learn to bite only his toys, not furniture, not the walls, not your shoes. For this reason you need to load your house with puppy toys and TEACH your puppy how to play with them. The best dog toys are interactive, this means that you can put food inside the toy and your puppy has to think how to get it out. This toys are the best because they add enrichment to your dog's life. Interactive dog toy recommendations: Feed EVERY meal inside an interactive dog toy Use interactive toys with your German shepherd when he is left alone in the house. Make sure he has plenty of toys interactive and others so he won't get bored when you leave. Use interactive toys when you need some quiet time because you need to work, or you have guests. Kong dog toy's are the best , you can fill them with something soft like cheese or peanut butter and let your puppy lick it for a while. Even better.Below you will see some of my favorite interactive dog toys durable and fun! German Shepherd puppy training: potty outside! Another important item on your German shepherd puppy training list is House training. It can be a bit stressful, but if done correctly, you can accomplish it very quickly. Just keep in mind that depending on your puppy in can take anywhere from 1 week to several months to complete potty training. The following info-graphic has some simple rules to follow and make german shepher potty training easy and effective: Take your puppy out for a potty break every hours. Take your puppy out for a potty the break after every meal. Take your puppy out for a potty break after a nap. Take your puppy out for a potty break after a play session. The main idea when potty training a German shepherd puppy, is to take him out or to the correct place as often as he needs to and reward him after he is done. The infographic above gives you an idea of how often a puppy needs to go out. However, you need to know your own puppy. This way you will know how often he is relieving himself. You may also notice if he does it after every meal or nap. Reward with a treat after he is done! Repeat steps 2 and 3, you should start noticing that after a couple of days or weeks your puppy chooses the correct place more often than other places. NEVER punish your dog for accidents, this can stress him and even make him do his business hidden from you which will make potty training very hard because you won't be able to reward him. You can crate train your German shepherd puppy so he learns to have quiet times in between active times. Crate training also prevents your puppy from having accidents. For more information and a puppy crate-training schedule check this article! German shepherd potty training aids The are several commercial items available to help you potty train your German shepherd dog. Regular cleaning products may take away the urine scent -you- smell but they will not remove the scent your dog smells. Enzymatic cleaners do that, they break down urine molecules to make them easy to remove. This will prevent your pet from returning to the same, incorrect, spot. Puppy pads are very popular because they are less messy than news paper. However, if you put a puppy pad and leave you puppy alone with it, you will find it in shreds! You must teach your puppy to use the puppy pads, not to chew on them. To do this, put the puppy pad on the floor and interrupt your puppy if he tries to play with it. Exchange for another toy and reward with treats for not grabbing the pad with his mouth he can however, stand or sit on it. Repeat until he learns this! If you have a backyard, a doggy-door is an excellent way to give your pup access to the outdoors without your help. You must teach him how to use it! Use a treat to lure him through the door many times until he can do it on his own! Then, every-time you take him outside, make him go though the door on his own. You can also teach your puppy to let you know when he needs to go outside! Use a doggy doorbells for this purpose. You must teach your dog how to use them! First, teach your dog to touch the bells. Then, ask your dog to touch the bells every time before you open the door to let him go outside. Finally, be alert for when he does it on his own! I do not recommend any "Not Here" or "Yes Here" type sprays. They don't work very well, specially without any training.German Shepherd puppy training: basic commands! Some dog trainers won't start until the dog is 6 months old, at which time he is past the socialization and bite inhibition period and he is probably doing all sorts of naughty things. You can start training your German shepherd puppy from the first day you bring him home. From weeks you can start teaching your canine many commands, however I strongly advice you keep your focus on socialization, bite-inhibition and potty training. If you have time to train basic commands…. Your pooch will love it! Step-by-step obedience training tutorials for your German shepherd German Shepherd puppy training "SIT": You will use this command all the time. Ask your pup to sit when a stranger wants to pet him, for attention, for the ball to be thrown, etc. To start use food to lure your pooch into the sit position. Only give him the treat once his bottom is on the ground. Repeat many times! Follow this link for detail instructions.This is useful at the vet as well as to mix and match commands. From a sit or down position lure your baby german shepherd into a stand. This link will take you to the step by step guide.Start your pooch from a sitting position and lure him into a down. Only give your dog a treat after he is completely down on the ground. Click here for a step-by-step tutorial.Why train your pooch sit, down and stand? You need three commands to mix up when you ask your dog to do something. If you have at least three options, then your smart German Shepherd won't be able to predict what you will ask. Practice Puppy Push-Ups! Sit-down-stand, Down-sit-stand, and ask you German Shepherd puppy to do one, two, or more commands to earn treats, toys and attention! Other useful cues include: Speak and Quiet , settle and ask for permission before rushing into something potentially dangerous. You can see a full list of commands on this link. Enjoy German Shepherd puppy training time and leave us your questions and comments in the box below. Baby German Shepherds growing up! German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most popular dog breeds out there at the moment, with many devoted fans. They can be large and imposing as adults. But, like every breed, they have a cute puppy phase that many fall in love with. However, since most puppies are bought at weeks old, most of us miss out on this magical period of their lives. So what happens during those first important weeks? A typical German Shepherd litter consists of around puppies. The mean average, according to a study performed in , is 6. When they are first born, they will still have an umbilical cord attached and may be covered in amniotic fluid. Their mother should chew off the umbilical cord and spend the first few hours cleaning their pups. Then mom will focus on keeping her newborn pups warm while allowing them to nurse. At this stage, German Shepherd puppies will just sleep and avoid expending energy. They will frequently nurse from their mother. Newborn German Shepherds When baby German Shepherd puppies are first born, they are completely dependent on their mother. Their ears and eyes will be closed and they will be unable to regulate their own body temperature efficiently. A coat should be present, and the color will depend on the genes they have inherited from their parents. Black with tan markings is the most common for this breed. Additionally, they will be relatively immobile. They will be unable to properly support their own weight. Therefore, they will commonly crawl on their stomach to move about. They will also be unable to urinate or defecate on their own. Stimulation from their mother will be required to help them go to the toilet. One Week Old Baby German Shepherd In the first week, the puppies should bulk up significantly and double their birth weight. However, there will not be much change in their behavior. They will still primarily be focused on nursing and sleeping. To help themselves stay warm, the puppies will normally cuddle close to each other, except for when they are in a hot environment. At this stage, they will still be blind and deaf. While they are still unable to see very well, this is a big step. Eyes should open for the first time at around days of age. They will appear blue in color, but this will change into brown as they develop. They may become a little more inquisitive about their surroundings with their new-found eyesight, and may begin to crawl around a little more. We can expect to see them make some big steps at this stage. Firstly, at around days old, their ears should begin to open for the first time. They should now be able to both see and hear, though not too clearly. Their senses will continue to develop over the coming weeks. They will begin to be able to stand and support their own weight. Walking may still be tough, though! They will likely be pretty wobbly. You can also expect to see their baby teeth come in at around this time. While they still get the majority of their nutrition from their mother, they will begin to show interest in solid food. They will begin to become more independent at this age, being able to urinate and defecate on their own. Beginning Of Socialization With their sight and hearing, they are likely to show a little bit of adventure and courage for the first time, exploring their surroundings as much as their unsteady gait will allow them. This milestone also marks the beginning of the socialization period, a critical phase of their development. Things learned now can shape their personality and behavior for the rest of their lives. They may engage the other puppies in clumsy play and show body language such as tail wagging for the first time. They will form relationships with their den mates, their mother, and humans. This stage is critical in getting the puppies used to humans. This can be achieved by gently exposing the puppies to human presence and contact so that they can see that they are no threat. While their brains are still very much in development, they are still able to learn some simple concepts at this stage. Crate and potty training can begin at this age. They should now be able to walk pretty well. This mobility will allow them to further play with their family and be even more curious about their surroundings. On top of this, their baby teeth should now be fully formed and the weaning process should be fully underway. They should be offered soft but solid food. They may begin to show signs of more complex social behaviors towards their other den mates, and they should learn important skills like bite inhibition. The socialization process should continue, with the puppies gently being exposed to new people, sights, and sounds. The German Shepherd babies will also be further weaned off the mother at this time, slowly moving onto a fully solid diet. Six Week Old Baby German Shepherd At this age, you will begin to see the puppies become even more independent of their mother. Six week old puppies are gaining social skills rapidly, and love to play with people and each other. Seven Week Old Baby German Shepherd When we move into the seventh week of their life, a new significant phase of development starts to begin: the fear period. While this sounds disconcerting, it merely means that this is the time that many puppies begin to show fear towards new things, rather than curiosity. Things that the puppy may find scary or uncertain during this time can make for big changes in their personality throughout life. For example, if a puppy has a bad experience with a human at this stage, it may lead them to becoming fearful and distrustful towards people for the rest of their life. This is why gently exposing the puppies to humans and common sights and sounds beforehand is important. By preemptively socializing the puppies with humans, we can help this period run smoother. The puppies will have reached weights of around pounds and should be around inches tall. Their ears will lie flat but should begin to become erect and upright over the coming weeks. They will be fully independent of their mother at this age. They should be completely weaned, with some basic training and socialization. From here, new owners are expected to continue to train and socialize them, as they are still within a critical period of development. New owners will also need to continue to ensure the German Shepherd puppy is fed a good, nutritionally balanced diet. For more information, you can check out our full puppy development guide here. And make sure you also take a look at this guide to bathing a puppy! However, there are certain breeds that are easier to train than others. Thankfully, German Shepherds fit into that category because they are very intelligent and quick learners. This includes house training , crate training , basic obedience commands as well as learning tricks. We recommend attending a puppy kindergarten class as part of your German Shepherd puppy socialization strategy. Once your pup knows their basic obedience commands, you can enroll them in Schutzhund training aka IPO. Partnership and teamwork between yourself and your dog are the basis for this type of training. Note that the Schutzhund environment is not a place for dogs with aggression issues, neither towards other dogs nor people! If they pass that initial level which includes a temperament test, they can move on to IPO 2 minimum age 19 months and IPO 3 minimum age 20 months. That said, protection dog trainers recommend starting training classes that include bitework and high jumps once your German Shepherd puppy is 12 months old. Dutch and Czech are two other languages that commands are frequently taught in. Stanley, my former long-haired GSD dog walking client, started going to Schutzhund training when he was a little over 12 months old. His owners practiced commands in German with him on a daily basis, and I remember getting a print out of his German commands as they asked me to use them on our walks as well. Lots, ha! German Shepherds need a minimum of 2 hours of physical exercise per day, but generally speaking, the more exercise you can provide your GSD with, the more they will thrive. Remember, German Shepherds are high-energy, athletic dogs bred to be active all day long, especially if they come from a working line! Physical Exercise Ideas for German Shepherds As far as physical exercise, this can be a mix of walks, runs, bike rides, fetch and playtime. This is Nala, one of my former pet sitting clients. She was crazy about frisbees and balls. One of my favorite ways of increasing the energy and calories a dog burns on a regular walk or hike is by using a doggie backpack. Mental Stimulation for German Shepherds Besides providing a good physical workout, dog backpacks also burn mental energy. As you probably know, bored dogs can quickly become destructive as they figure out ways of entertaining themselves. For example, chewing up your furniture and shoes, scratching doors, raiding your kitchen trash can or digging up your flower beds. So do yourself a favor and make sure your GSD gets plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Remember, a tired dog is a good dog, and that applies to German Shepherds as much as it does to any other dog breed! Former GSD client Remi pooped after a long walk. Bottom Line So, how big does a German Shepherd get? Well, German Shepherds are medium to large size dogs, so they can weigh anywhere between lbs. That said, the average expected weight for a male GSD is between lbs, and the average expected weight for a female GSD is between lbs. Both reach sexual maturity somewhere between months and are considered fully grown at about the 2 year mark. Keeping that in mind, your GSD breeder should be able to give you a good general idea of how big your German Shepherd puppy will grow to be! Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Barbara is a trilingual, something dog lover, e-book author, founder, copywriter, dog nutrition blogger and editor at K9sOverCoffee. Post navigation.

Social media has provided dog enthusiasts with an opportunity to engage with other Pug lovers, while providing an intriguing glimpse into life with one of these dogs. Once we trawled through social media to get an idea of some popular Pug names, we continued our research online through news articles and other content. Famous Pugs on Instagram and TikTok Pug is checked over by vet Photo: Adobe Stock Pugs are a hugely popular breed on social media thanks to their goofy and loving personalities. One of the most popular Pug accounts is Doug The Pug who was one of the original dog influencers. With millions and millions of followers across all platforms, Doug is a bona fide superstar. Doug itsdougthepug is one of the driving factors behind the popularity of the breed in the s, creating fun videos and quirky photoshoots as well as posing with other A-listers. This handsome chap has over , followers on Instagram alone. Did you know that Pugs can make expert surfers? You can get your pug fill on this account along with , others. Jeremy Veach jeremyveach has an account with a twist! He lives in a converted bus with his pug Norm. If you want to see what life is like on the road with a pug or see their adventures along the Oregon Coast, you should check out their Instagram page! Pug Names Do you wonder what's a great name for a Pug dog? This breed is so unique looking, he or she's just gotta have a really cool name! Do you want to see if the name you chose is on our Exclusive List for this breed? Have a great suggestion for a name that fits the breed? Then you came to the right place! Most of the following names have been submitted by Pug owners. The most popular names are those that begin with the letter P, however others such as Mugsy and Mopsy are often chosen as well. Have fun as you read all of the cool names that owners have thought of and see below on how to submit your dog's name if it is not on this list. Choosing a Name in Multiple Dog Households When you have more than one dog, it's best to choose names for your dogs that do not start with the same sound. Canines often only pay attention to the first syllable that humans speak. If both dogs have names that begin the same way, they may become confused. An example would be "Roxanne" and "Rocky"; both Pugs may run to you when either name is called out. There are 2 things that owners should do: 1 Say the name a lot. Be sure to say it along with all of the "come here" commands. Look at your puppy and get his attention when you say it. You want your pup to associate the name with something good.So don't say it if your pup has an accident, is chewing apart your shoe or does anything else that may cause frustration. Be sure to say, "No" and show your Pug what you do want him or her to do, but refrain from using his or her name at these times Pug Names Starting with A Ab - Ad. Despite their small stature, you can help your pooch rise from the ranks with one of these unique Pug names… Ziggy Derived from Zigmund, meaning "victorious protection" Kiki Short and unique name Zephyr Greek name meaning "west wind" Jet Referring to the color black Luna Latin for "moon" Nala Meaning "successful" or "beloved" Django Inspired by the jazz musician, Django Reinhardt Juno Roman goddess associated with protection and fertility Echo Symbolizing reflection or repetition Related article: Unique dog names Celebrity Pug names Pugs are one of the most famous pooches on earth. So, why not pick a Pug name from one of these famous two-leggers? We've completed our list of Pug names. Are they playful and mischievous? Laid-back and chill? Choose a name that best reflects their paw-sonality. We also recommend pondering their physical features. Pugs come in a variety of colors ahh, beautiful , so you can play around with Pug names that suit their coat. When it comes to choosing a name, simplicity is key. Go for a name that's easy to pronounce and to remember, both for you and your Pug and your future house sitters! Lastly, try out different names for Pugs in your backyard and see how they feel. Practice calling your Pug over for treats, walks, or belly rubs. You'll soon discover which name sounds right for your family. Travel with peace of mind with the help of a loving in-house pet sitter , who will give your precious pooch all the care and attention they need from the comfort of your very own home. Head over to TrustedHousesitters HQ today to find out more about becoming a member of our community of pet people!

How to buy a French Bulldog puppy on a low budget French Bulldog puppies are one of the most expensive dog breeds to bring home. So how can you get your first French Bulldog puppy on a low budget? There is no such thing as a cheap Frenchie or a low budget French Bulldog due to their breeding per birth price tag. Nonetheless, there are several creative ways you can get a Frenchie puppy with little to no money down and we took the time to explore options and share this valuable info with you. A very fine show quality French Bulldog can cost that much. The high price tag reflects the expense per Frenchie puppy birth of artificial insemination, c-sections, constant care when they are born and multiple health and genetic exams. Why are French Bulldogs more expensive than any other dog breed? Most Frenchies can't have live babies the normal way. Many breeders would agree good breeding practices can greatly reduce the risks of genetic disorders that can lead to hearing loss, hip problems, and respiratory illness. Buying a well bred French Bulldog is never cheap and can help avoid a lifetime of vet bills and care. Creative ways you can get a Frenchie puppy or dog with little to no money down: Easypay Finance: Need help buying your Frenchie puppy? Easypay Finance can help. Good credit to no credit applicants accepted. Just as the name suggests Easypay is a streamline straight forward application that allows you to be approved instantly online without pay stubs or bank statements. If your loan is paid back within 90 days you can get a full interest rebate back. Requirements: Have a cell phone and email address. Have a checking account for at least 3 months. Puppy Spot Financing Puppy Spot Financing offers a convenient payment plan through Community Finance to help families buy their dream puppy. Breeders invest time, effort and resources into breeding and often this results in a hefty price for the Frenchie puppy. With a financing option, you don't have to compromise on a quality French Bulldog puppy. All you have to do is fill a form and a Puppy Concierge will contact you within one hour of receiving pre approval to help you reserve your dream Frenchie puppy. Requirements: Employed for the last 12 months at the same job. Pet Loans dot com can help finance your pet purchase price or veterinary care and even your pet supplies. Pet Loans dot com specializes in exotic pet purchases. French Bulldog Breeder financing: Certain Breeders accept financing through programs that are set up to protect them and help the buyer with a flexible payment plan. Ask your chosen breeder if they are able to accept breeder financing through one of the above programs. My Pet Funding allows breeders and pet stores offer the potential buyer the flexibility to spread their purchase cost over time. Rescue a French Bulldog. They have a short muzzle and have been bred to have an even and pleasant temperament which makes them a great companion for families with children. They are very playful in nature and even have some hilarious moments as they thrive for human attention and long, lasting friendships. French Bulldogs are typically less than 28 pounds. They're consistently in the top 10 of most popular registered dog breeds in America. Before you start asking where can I find a "French Bulldog for sale near me" you need to make sure it's the right breed for you. Here is everything you need to know about French Bulldogs, including their history, appearance, disposition, activity level, care needs, and cost. History French Bulldogs are the result of a cross between Toy Bulldogs imported from England and local ratter dogs in Paris, France, in the s. The breed was then exported to France, where it became known as the Bouledogue Francais. In , these dogs were brought back to England and they eventually made their way to America. Frenchies are now their own specific breed. Appearance When it comes to appearance, the number one thing people associate with them are their large, bat-like ears that are set high on their heads. French Bulldog puppies for sale typically have a stocky build with short legs, a large head, and a stubby tail. A French Bulldog puppy has a wrinkly appearance and a short nose and muzzle. French Bulldogs typically weigh between 20 and 28 pounds and stand 12 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder. Their incredibly gorgeous, short-haired and long-haired coats come in several colors and patterns, such as fawn, tan, brown, chocolate, cocoa, blue or dilute, cream, lilac, Isabella, black, brindle, piebald, and merle. Disposition If you're looking for a small, lovable companion dog, you can't go wrong with a Frenchie. These dogs are known for their affectionate, gentle nature and loving, easygoing personality, and they make great pets for families with children. They can be lively and hilarious. Searching for "French Bulldog puppies near me for sale" and finding the right pup will leave you a companion dog through and through. They love nothing more than to cuddle up with their favorite person and they make excellent lap dogs. They do well in homes with children and other pets, although they can be a bit boisterous at times. They don't bark much and don't like to be left alone for long periods of time. French Bulldog puppies thrive in any environment from apartments to rural areas. Activity Level Looking for French Bulldogs for sale may have you wondering how much exercise a Frenchie requires to be happy and healthy. They are relatively inactive dogs and don't require a lot of exercise, although they do enjoy occasional walks and playtime. They are a great choice for busy people. You won't need a large yard for a Frenchie. Grooming Requirements French Bulldogs are relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming needs. They can have a short coat that is smooth and soft to the touch. Some long-haired French Bulldog puppies are called Fluffies. When it comes to grooming, French Bulldog puppies only need to be brushed occasionally, and their nails should be trimmed regularly. They are also moderate shedders, so you'll need to do some regular vacuuming to keep your home clean. Training Opting for a French Bulldog puppy for sale is the perfect choice if you're looking for a funny, even-tempered, social pup. Training them can be more challenging since they are so incredibly stubborn. These dogs have big personalities and a mind of their own. You can make training a French Bulldog puppy into a game and offer rewards like food or treats, praise, and playtime. However, with consistency and motivation, their people-pleasing personality will have them trained in no time. Cost If you're wondering, where can I find a "French Bulldog puppy for sale near me? French Bulldog puppies for sale can be higher priced due to their coat length, genetic makeup, and rare coat colors, including which genes they carry, such as the intensity coat color gene variant, dilution, merle, lilac, or Isabella. They also have some health problems that can be expensive to treat, such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and respiratory issues, so be aware of these expenses in addition to regular veterinarian care. However, with proper care, a Frenchie can be a loving and loyal companion for years to come. When looking for Frenchies for sale, it's crucial to factor in the ongoing costs beyond just the initial price. Food, toys, veterinary care, vaccinations, and other ongoing expenses should be taken into consideration. For instance, if you're planning to travel with a fluffy friend, be ready to pay for a pet-friendly transportation service. However, for many owners, the joy and companionship that these beautiful pups provide are well worth the investment. If you're looking for French Bulldog puppies near me, be sure to research breeders carefully. A trustworthy breeder with Frenchie puppies for sale will provide documentation of vaccinations and other health records for their puppies. A good breeder will also be happy to answer any questions you have about the breed, including size, temperament, and grooming needs — so don't be afraid to ask away! Some unscrupulous breeders are known for selling sick or poorly-bred puppies, so it's important to find a reputable source like Pawrade offering happy, healthy French Bulldog puppies for sale through pre-screened breeders. Why Pawrade? Finding a reputable breeder has never been easier Ready to find your perfect French Bulldog? Pawrade is dedicated to connecting loving families with a dog that needs a home. Using Pawrade to browse for a French Bulldog for sale is a reliable way to ensure that you get a dog from a reputable breeder. Our focus is on the health of the dog and ethical, sustainable breeding practices. We ensure that the breeders on our platform are genuine, so you have peace of mind in knowing that you are receiving exactly what you expect. If you've always dreamed of owning this type of dog, choose Pawrade for your French Bulldog for sale and begin a new chapter in your life today! Stop searching for "French Bulldog puppies near me" — you've come to the right place! We understand just how difficult it is to find a legitimate breeder, so we've put our experience and expertise to work for you. Why wait any longer? Browse through our vast selection of puppies for sale from a safe and reputable source. No Puppy Mill Pledge We have zero tolerance toward puppy mills and pride ourselves in connecting you with honest and reputable breeders where puppies are raised with love and compassion. Learn More Health Guarantee As fellow puppy owners, we know the importance of having a happy and healthy puppy. Every puppy is backed by our comprehensive health guarantee. Check out our French Bulldog Puppies What is included in our prices? We provide nanny service to all major US airports for an extra fee. Shipping to other countries is also possible, contact us for more info! PayPal and Stripe have payment insurance which means that they keep your money pending until you get the puppy. We get your money just after you have confirmed that your puppy has arrived in your arms safe and sound! Shots up-to-date worth USD Our pups receive all the necessary shots while they are with us: 1. Deworming worth 50 USD Our puppies are dewormed every two weeks from the age of 4 weeks old and they also get Simparica Trio against ticks, fleas and heartworms right before they leave. Anti-parasite treatment worth USD We give our puppies anti-parasite treatment against all parasites before they leave except for heart worms. Echocardiogram heart examination, worth 1, USD We do echocardiogram on our Frenchies and when we find the slightest chance of heart murmur in one of them, we rather cancel the adoption and find a loving home for them locally. Valer, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Membership and right to post in the TomKings Frenchie Family closed Facebook group We created a Facebook group for our adopters where we answer their questions and they share their experiences with each other. We are a Family because we are connected by the love towards Frenchies and we are always there to help and support each other, as well as share valuable experiences and advice! Only TomKings Frenchie parents are allowed to post and ask from us or any other member in the group. Participation in TomKings Frenchie Meetups We organize Frenchie Meetups in major cities throughout the States where you can talk with other TomKings Frenchie owners and exchange advice while your Frenchies are playing with each other. Frenchie Love eBook worth .Lifetime Health Guarantee We give you a lifetime health guarantee on all genetic disorders which cause death, which means that we send you another puppy if your Frenchie dies. We have never had that so far since the parent dogs go through a rigorous selection process before the breeding program and our vet checks the puppies often. We know that Frenchie owners have a bunch of questions about feeding, raising, training, etc. Our goal is to have only happy and healthy puppies so we will always be there to answer your questions! Lifetime vet assistance Frenchie owners have a lot of questions about the health of their puppies and most of the time they run to their vet right away and leave a fortune there for nothing. We even tell you whether you need to visit your vet at all! Health certification TomKings Frenchies are examined strictly before they leave for their new homes and we give you a health certificate which can be used if you want to have insurance for your puppy which we highly recommend. Exceptional care We treat every puppy as a family member from the moment they are born. We believe that the secret of having socialized and healthy Frenchie puppies is spending time with them all day long and letting them run and play in the backyard. Potty training It is crucial how puppies are trained at the beginning of their lives. At TomKings Puppies we are focusing not only on their health but their proper training as well. We start potty training for them so that you have a much easier job! Ultimate Guide. The breed actually originated in and around Nottingham, England, which was the center of lace making. This small bulldog was a companion to the lace makers and ratter-in-chief. As the Industrial Revolution took hold in England, cottage industries such as lace making were threatened by mechanization, and many lace makers relocated to France. Toulouse-Lautrec even put a Frenchie in several of his paintings. French Bulldogs are surprisingly good watchdogs. City dwellers love Frenchies. Besides snoring, they make all sorts of snorts, grunts, yips, and other odd noises. If only Rosetta Stone taught Frenchie-language! French Bulldogs can be very stubborn and hard-headed. However, even after they learn a trick or behavior, they may do their own interpretation of it. They may circle the coffee table or jump on and off the furniture, and it will always be exuberant. French Bulldogs have a huge celebrity following just like Toy Poodles for sale. French Bulldogs are sensitive just like Dachshunds for sale. With a mischievous sense of humor, Frenchies are enormously entertain .Of course, children need to be taught how to play with a dog, regardless of breed. Plan on buying lots of toys; a Frenchie is a toy terminator, and enjoys ripping out stuffing and squeakers. Be careful what toys you choose for him and avoid ones that could be choking hazards. Their personalities are as large as their big bat ears. Adaptable, loving, smart, and mischievous, the French Bulldog is pretty much irresistible! We were reluctant to put a deposit because we almost got scammed before and the sell was so trustworthy he held our puppy for us. And when we were ready, he shipped the puppy over as he promised. Thank you guys for everything and making our family complete Ann Belcher Here is a picture of our Heavenly Deja, the day she was delivered to our home from Lovely home French Bulldogs by Thomas. Rated 0 out of 5 What is the the Temperament French bulldogs for sale French Bulldog dog breed is a clever, loving canine who needs to contribute lots of energy with his kinfolk just like the maltese. French Bulldog puppies are also very playful and affectionate in their nature. They simply like being around people. In terms of caring, Frenchies for sale are simple to care for — all they require is a healthy diet along with regular exercise, and a family that will lavish them with love and affection. Join our Facebook platform to engage with other French Bulldog lovers and breeders, share ideas and adopt a puppy for a cheap fee. Click here to visit the group. This is Because they are Brachycephalic canines smushed-face , French Bulldog puppies are prone to heat and susceptible to many health problems. Bulldogs are bulldogs. French Bulldog Puppies are characteristically stubborn, which can hinder the process of training. While not as large as other breeds French Bulldog puppy breed are stout compact and strong. They require exercise as well to maintain their shape. They are also available in a range in coat colors and designs. The selection is so wide of fantastic French Bulldogs for sale that you might need assistance in locating the perfect French Bulldog puppy for your family. The best method to locate the ideal French Bulldog puppy for sale is to talk to an GlamorousFrenchbulldog consultant now by opening a conversation through our live chat below. Look no further! Browse our website and embark on the exciting journey of finding your perfect furry friend. Our platform connects you with a wide range of affordable French bulldog puppies, each one waiting to become your loyal and loving companion. With our dedication to affordable prices and reputable breeders, you can find the perfect Frenchie for your budget and create a lifetime of memories together. Unveiling the History of French Bulldog Puppies The history of French bulldog puppies is a captivating tale that dates back to the s. Originally bred in England as companion dogs, these adorable canines quickly gained popularity across Europe. French bulldogs eventually made their way to the United States, captivating the hearts of dog lovers everywhere. At Cheappuppiesforsale. Understanding the Temperament and Health of French Bulldogs Frenchies are known for their unique temperament and distinctive personalities. These affectionate and sociable dogs make fantastic companions for individuals and families alike. They are known to be friendly, playful, and adaptable, making them a great fit for various lifestyles. How much do frenchies cost About Daisy Hi there! My name is Daisy. I have just met you, and I love you. My current family has raised me to be the most amazing, little puppy you will ever meet. I love to play, take naps, and give kisses. I am a great puppy and will come home to you up to date on my vaccinations and vet checks. I am in search for stuffed animals and toys; will you help me find them? I love to play with everyone. Will you be my new family? Sex: Female.

If you are not yet aware you will understand some of the differences between working lines German Shepherd and show lines. To fully understand, it is necessary to first look at an overview of the history of the German Shepherd lines. When did the German Shepherd Lines began? It was during s that breeding of dogs were standardized in Germany. The main purpose was to produce dogs in assisting the shepherds in protecting their flock from predators. Throughout this period, there was also contentions of belief about whether bred dogs should be used for display of appearance only or should be for working functions as well. Until such time when a German captain and a former student of veterinary science, Max von Stephanitz, who strongly believed in standardizing dog breeding to produce working dogs, advocated such idea. His advocacy started after watching a show and was amazed with the performance and ability of a dog, Hektor Linksrhein, and eventually after buying it, he changed its name to Horand von Grafrath who was known to be the first German Shepherd Dog. Since then, the breeding of working lines German Shepherd became popular. His work became internationally acceptable and are being used until now. How did the German Shepherd Lines evolved? The results were successful when out of Horand came Schwaben and Beowulf which became the origin of the present German Shepherd work lines. In , German Shepherd Dog became more popular in America when its first exposure happened there. It was in America, where GSD shows became more famous because of this new breed. The development of the cross-breeding process of working line GSD greatly improved during the Second World War in order to help both the Axis Powers and Forces for both military and paramilitary activities. After the war, both America and Germany became highly strict in breeding and training program of the German Shepherd working lines. Presently, the breeding program of German Shepherd lines can be either for working purpose or for show or domestic purpose which will be the difference between Working Lines German Shepherd and Show Lines? To clearly distinguish these German Shepherd lines, it is better to look at their differences in purpose, physical and personality. Purpose Difference Basically, working lines German Shepherds are bred and trained to work especially in law enforcement and military functions. On the other hand, show lines German Shepherds are being raised primarily to produce well-structured and good appearing breed of GSD. These lines are actually intended for dog shows and of course to be pet dogs at home. Physical Difference Working German Shepherds have thicker and a straight body structure so they can work harder for long hours. While show lines German Shepherds are thinner with slanted back because their back legs are shorter than their legs in front. Unlike the working lines GSD, legs in back are longer than front. Working lines German Shepherds are preferred to have medium length double coat for better tolerance to differing climates. However, there are standards for show lines where color is a requirement such as strong rich colors like black, black and red, gray, black and tan, blue, or black and silver. Working line German Shepherds are preferred to be sable or black in military and police work. Sable German Shepherd Dogs are being bred by top working line German Shepherd breeders in the world with occasional black coats as well. Personality Difference Working lines GSD are more energetic and are sensitive to any fast-moving persons or animals because they assumed it to be a prey. They also use their mouth to experience the world rather than their paws. This energy is an effect of the severe training exposures they've been breed from. The training requires more special exercises that will develop its physical strength and intelligence in order to be prepared in hazardous field of work. German Shepherd Show Lines are calm and more tamed but still require cautions because they can be dangerous when improperly handled. However, their aggressiveness are usually expressed when there is situation that they need to defend themselves. Breed Types of Working and Show Lines German Shepherd For those who are planning to have a German Shepherd Dog, it is not enough that you know about their types of functions but it is also essential to be oriented about the major types of breeds of German Shepherd Lines. Below are some of the famous breed types of German Shepherd working and show lines. They have straight body structure, darker color, and big bones. They are more energetic and need to be involved in many activities for them to maintain good health. Most are trained by European working line German Shepherd breeders. West German Shepherd West German Shepherds are being bred for show purposes rather than for working functions. They are very popular when it comes to show lines GSD breed. They have a more sloped appearance compared to East German Shepherds. There is also a working line West German Shepherd which is considered to be closer to the breed of dog bred by Stephanitz. This West German Shepherd is excellent both in working tasks and even as a family pet. They are assigned to become protectors of territory and are being bred from the East German Shepherd lines. This kind of breed also undergoes intensive training to enhance health and muscle strength to be fit in military exercises. It is as well characterized by its dark color, strong nerves, intelligence and loyalty. Although both have differences in purpose, physical attributes, and personality, owners and breeders should be very careful in handling them to ensure safety whether they are at workplace or at home. Contact Us for Details on Our Puppies! The joy of owning a working line bred German Shepherd is immeasurable — but a companion and workmate that gives itself over to you so completely requires a significant reciprocal commitment. Do you have a fenced yard? Are you able to devote at least 30 minutes per day to exercising your dog? Will your puppy be raised inside of your home as a part of your family? Do you have small children, infants or other animals in your home currently and if not do you plan to in the future? Do you plan to crate train your puppy in addition to housebreaking? Are you prepared to feed a high quality food to your dog such as a grain-free or holistic food as a regular diet throughout its lifetime? Do you know the difference between the temperaments and character of a Working Line German Shepherd Dog over a show line or an American bred German Shepherd? Have you already consulted with a private trainer or know of obedience classes that are offered in your area that may be more specific to working dogs over an average Pet Store style all breed pet training class? Do you plan to spay or neuter your puppy when he or she is old enough? Are you financially prepared to provide care for your dog and seek veterinary care in the event of an emergency that may require hospitalization of your dog? If you are planning on breeding, do you have at least 5 years minimum experience as a Breeder? Are you educated in canine reproduction and development, have the basic knowledge and understanding of genetics as well as proper care for newborn pups, neonatal intensive care and experience in identifying reproductive complications or emergencies should they arise? When the German Shepherd breed was in development, the intended goal was to get a big, durable dog with high stamina and intuition for work. But while that did come about in the form of the early German Shepherd, the resultant dog had the capacity for breathtaking aesthetic beauty. Soon, GSDs were bred for their visual appeal, which branched the show line and working line Shepherd dogs. A working line German Shepherd is a GSD bred to have an improved work ethic, better discipline, and excellent physical fitness. Unlike show line GSDs, working lines have a straighter topline, better limb-length consistency due to less angulation, are more athletic, and are prone to fewer diseases. This includes various fur colors with black and tan being prominent , limb inconsistency that produces a lion-line posture, and better eye and face contrast that makes their pupils prominent. Other varieties of German Shepherds can have some utility as private property guards, just like a working line German Shepherd can be a beautiful addition to your family. West German Working Line vs. DDR Working Line vs. Czech Shepherd As covered above, working line German Shepherds can vary in utility across different dimensions. When choosing one that suits your needs, you must look at two factors: the context in which the dog was bred and how well the line was preserved. All working lines fare better in endurance compared to show line GSDs. Origin: The West German Working line was bred by breeders in West Germany who wished to retain the original German Shepherd appearance while controlling for endurance. DDR German Shepherds were produced under a strict military breeding program focused on offense capabilities and discipline. Though it was more for border control, Czech Shepherds were also bred under a strict breeding program. As you can see, these stories differ in the position of value. In other words, as long as the dogs retain their appearance, the story continues: the dog looks closer to what von Stephanitz intended. Compare that to the East German Shepherd. For the story to remain consistent, the dog must have the superior work ethic and the ability to attack, unlike other GSDs. Learn More About The 3 Main Types of Working Line German Shepherds Here… German Shepherd Dog The main 3 types of working line GSD's Talking about looks can be tricky because beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder, and you might actually like the look of a dog otherwise seen as not up to the social standards of beauty. Working lines will have less broad heads and less bulky bodies, and show lines will have longer and thicker coats. Certain traits show up on a spectrum among working line German Shepherds. Denser bones are needed for work. Despite their thicker bones working lines are less bulky and more agile and athletic. Working line German Shepherds, at least the well-trained kind, have nerves of steel. Usually Purebred While German Shepherds are often an amalgamation of multiple canine genes, the properly established lines of working German Shepherds have become brands onto themselves. Breeders mix GSDs upon request or trendy short-term interest in a specific mix. In some instances, the mix can become popular enough to branch off into a potential breed, as with King Shepherds. A strong work ethic makes the dog seem an impersonal hustler, but the reality is different because, among dogs, a strong work ethic is driven by an insatiable desire to please. Working line German Shepherds are good family dogs — such is their desire to please their family. Their hunger to be appreciated makes them fun as they can engage in different activities, such as agility or flyball. They are good with children and other pets if they are well socialized and trained. You must detach your opinion of work or games from your personal experience to truly fathom the temperament of a working line German Shepherd. He is dedicated to his tasks because he needs a job to do. Working Line German Shepherds are friendly. They bond with their family and other household pets as long as they are sufficiently socialized and trained from a young age. They have a neutral temperament towards others but can be suspicious of strangers due to their strong protective instinct. Therefore, it is crucial to train your working line GSD puppy in the subtle art of ignoring familiar noises and random strangers outside. After all, what separates them from other German Shepherds is their ability to work better. They also bond extremely well with their owner or handler, are strong, loyal , versatile, obedient, and intelligent. Their physical attributes of stamina, strength, athleticism, and agility set them apart from their show line counterparts. These are some of the many roles that working line GSD perform: Police patrol. They possess a strong work ethic, enhanced physical capabilities, better limb-length consistency due to less hind angulation, and improved health. They can be distinguished from show-line German Shepherds by their physique and athleticism. These dogs come in 11 registered coat colors black and tan, black sable, and solid black being more prominent and a wolf-like posture. The history of show dogs, in general, goes back to the s when breeds were being standardized in Germany. Breeders at that time had a significant bone of contention; whether dogs should be bred based on appearance or their working capabilities. Max von Stephanitz , a German army captain, and former veterinary science student, advocated for standardized breeding of working dogs and dedicated 35 years of his life to developing a breed with excellent herding capabilities. Working line German Shepherds have an athletic and muscular body with a straight back and less angulated hips that assist them in their duties. They also have erect, pointy ears. They are trained to perform under pressure and have the mindset to desire work. They also have a higher pain endurance and work tolerance and can work even in extreme weather conditions. Working-line German Shepherds have enhanced drives of prey, defense, and fight. They are great for police work, military, search and rescue, drug and bomb detection, arson or human detection, personal protection, patrolling, guarding, serving disabled people, therapy, guidance, carrying messages, and of course, herding. Working line GSDs are usually inches in height for males and inches for females. Male dogs weigh around pounds, and females weigh between pounds. Their life span is about years, but they are less prone to diseases than other types and are generally healthier. Health-wise, working-line German Shepherds rarely suffer from hip dysplasia but are prone to bloat GDV and pancreatitis. They are brave, vigilant dogs with incredible loyalty, intelligence, independence, versatility, and energy. They are innately territorial as well and are pretty protective. Working line GSDs are high-energy dogs with medium to high exercise needs. They also need to put their brain to work and require frequent mental stimulation, which owes to their intelligence. Since they are highly trainable, you can efficiently ease them into a routine. Like other types, working line GSDs have a double coat and shed all year round. They have fewer grooming needs than show-line German Shepherds, but you must care for their ears, teeth, and nails. Although they may look a little intimidating, these dogs are great with children and other pets. Pros of Working Line German Shepherds Great as Working Dogs Working-line German Shepherds are some of the most versatile working dogs in the canine world and are widely known for their working capabilities. Although they were developed for herding, they can do much more. Given their role in the police, military, and assisted services, they are great at chasing criminals, working as guard dogs, helping blind people, cheering up the sick, guarding property, leading, and even taking up movie roles. They have the least temperamental issues because they are bred and trained to withstand pressure and deal with unfamiliar circumstances. They are also very protective and loyal and make excellent family pets, but they can be aggressive if they need to be. Not only are they compassionate without being needy, but they are also fit and willing to serve as both guardians and companions. The American Kennel Club ranked them as the fourth most registered breed in , and because of their popularity, a wide range of resources are available for help and information. Moreover, excessive time and effort demands do not end with their physical and mental stimulation. From health to socialization to training and diet , their needs are as diverse as a human. This can be good or bad, depending on how much time you can invest. Being There for Them as a Leader Spending time with your working line GSD is not enough; you must establish yourself as an approachable but commanding leader for proper training. This way, you can keep your dog within his boundaries and make sure he trains adequately. A working line GSD may not be the right fit for you if you are uncomfortable being firm and commanding. These dogs can also suffer from separation anxiety and should not be left alone for long periods. Their height and weight do not make them suitable for apartments and small living spaces or people with a sedentary lifestyle. Although not hyperactive, they need a daily discharge of energy to prevent behavior issues and becoming destructive. They are beautiful and are not specialized to work. Since GSDs usually require a lot of care, time, and attention for their upbringing, the show lines were initially developed as a reaction to these extensive requirements. Breeders in Europe bred them for owners without the patience, time, and energy to deal with working line types. Show-line German Shepherds are usually darker in color, as judges prefer rich-colored dogs in show rings. The American Kennel Club considers dilute colors, such as blue and liver, serious faults, so they do not make good show dogs. White German Shepherds and those without a predominantly back nose are prohibited in show rings. Many owners choose a show line dog but have no intention of entering competitions. My German Shepherd is a European show line as opposed to the American one , and I chose her for her temperament, color, and looks. The show bloodlines also have triangular and erect ears and a broad head with powerfully angled hindquarters. They are good-tempered dogs , make excellent family pets, and you can even train them as guard dogs. They are also highly intelligent and easily trainable but require authority guidance. Since they are raised differently than working GSDs, show-line German Shepherds have a lower energy drive but require physical and mental stimulation, albeit comparatively lower. They also have extensive grooming requirements to ensure refined showing qualities. Show line German Shepherds are generally thinner-boned dogs with large bodies. They have the appearance of shorter back legs and long front ones due to refined hip angulation, which makes their back sloped or slanting. The American show line is known for having an even more defined angulation and sloped top line than their West German Shepherd counterparts. However, there is a lot of controversy around this trait, as neither is a sloped back a breeding requirement according to the American Kennel Club nor a trait passed down by original GSD generations. This trait was intentionally bred to imitate the physique of those winning dogs. Without appearing too biased, breeders and winners of show lines will say their German Shepherds are perfectly healthy. There are also no standard temperament, health, or obedience requirements for breeding, but that is not true in European countries. Therefore, getting a dog from Germany or another European country ensures the probability of good temperament, health, and obedience. Show lines are prone to developing health conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia, arthritis, bloat, and allergies. So before you adopt a dog for its beauty, you better know your duty. They are beautiful and aesthetically pleasing with their rich and dark colors. However, just because they are not working does not mean they are weak or frail-looking. They are tall, broad-chested, sturdy, and imposing figures with chiseled heads and well-formed features. Their hindquarters are in proportion to the rest of their body. Good show line Shepherds look a little intimidating and scary, even somewhat aloof. Well Balanced Temperament Show line German Shepherds are very calm and well-balanced with an easy-going temperament. They are also highly protective of their owners due to their past as herding dogs. The show lines are affectionate and loving dogs and develop strong bonds of trust with their owners. Even though they are skeptical of strangers, they usually do not resort to violence and use intimidation techniques when they feel threatened. If you are interested in showing your dog, you can put some effort into his grooming and training for him to win competitions. If not, you can take them in as family pets. They are great with children and other dogs and are pretty affectionate without being clingy. These dogs can also make excellent guard dogs if socialized and trained correctly. Cons of Show Line German Shepherds Prone to Genetic Health Concerns Since there is a lack of qualifying requirements and standard health evaluations, show-line GSDs are prone to several health concerns stemming from their genetics. The primary focus lies on their physical appearance, which sometimes comes at the cost of their health, such as sloped backs. Hip and elbow dysplasia, bloating, and arthritis are the most common complications. Exceptional Grooming Requirements Although all dogs have specific hygiene and grooming requirements, show-line GSDs have certain additional ones to maintain their striking physical appearance. Their heavy coats require frequent brushing and grooming to ensure their shine and volume. Since they are the models in the canine world, their nails, ears, teeth, and skin care need better attention. Financial Burden Show line German Shepherds are expensive not only to acquire but also to maintain. Their grooming, food, and exercise requirements mean you must be ready to commit time and money. Difference in Purpose and Training Working line GSDs are bred and trained for work, usually in law enforcement or the military. Because of this, they are subjected to training processes that conform to the work standards of these agencies. Their endurance is enhanced via training, as is their pain tolerance, survival rate, and work efficiency. On the other hand, show-line German Shepherds are bred and raised for show rings. They are not trained to have the same abilities as a working line Shepherd; they are trained to fulfill the requirements of dog shows. They specialize in being well-structured and visually appealing, which is not the focus for working bloodlines. Physical Appearance: Working Line German Shepherds are athletic dogs with a straight back and less hip angulation. These traits allow them to work efficiently for long periods without harming their health. Show line German Shepherds have sloped backs and, thus, shorter hind legs, making them suitable for showing. Working line Shepherds do not have extensive standards and usually only prefer a medium-length double coat for climate tolerance. That is not the case for show line GSDs, which must be of rich and dark colors like black, black and red, black and tan, or black and silver. They are also more aggressive and are prone to biting or attacking when faced with a threat. This is a direct result of their training, including specific exercises for developing physical strength, intelligence, and tolerance. Show line German Shepherds are, in contrast, calmer, more tamed, and home-friendly dogs. They usually resort to intimidation instead of violence and only attack when they need to defend themselves. Working line German Shepherds are generally considered more trainable than show line German Shepherds due to their high work drive, focus, and natural instinct to follow commands. However, both types of German Shepherds can be trained successfully with proper training techniques and consistency. Can working-line German Shepherds also participate in dog shows? Yes, working-line German Shepherds can participate in dog shows, but they are typically not as successful as show-line German Shepherds due to their different physical and temperament characteristics. Working-line German Shepherds are bred for their working abilities rather than their appearance, which is the main focus of dog shows. Which type of German Shepherd is more intelligent? Generally speaking, the most intelligent type of German Shepherd is the show line. Show line German Shepherds are bred to conform to the breed standard, which means they have a very specific look and temperament. Final Thoughts — Choosing the Right Bloodline You can choose which German Shepherd is the right fit for you by matching your personality with theirs. Working-line German Shepherds are bred to have working abilities, whereas the breeding of show lines focuses on appearance. Both types have specific differences in personality, purpose, and physical attributes but are equally excellent family dogs and are very loving and devoted. Both of them come with their fair share of responsibilities, and thus you should only take one if you can ensure their safety and proper upbringing. The physical traits and disposition are ideal for long hours of concentration and the ability to adhere to commands. A working line GSD is generally a healthier dog than its show counterpart and there are distinct differences. Working line German Shepherd breeders choose their sires and bitches carefully in order to produce the strongest pups with the best genetic lines. This breed excels at K9 training and they are well acclimated to following commands, provided the owner has a firm hand and understands how to best work with the breed. The working line breed was standardized with the intent of producing dogs that could protect livestock from predators. The breed became more popular around the turn of the 20th century and was introduced in the United States in .Working line German Shepherd breeders developed and improved breeding techniques and the working line dogs became instrumental in military initiatives for both the Allied and Axis forces during World War II. After World War II, German and American working line German Shepherd breeders continued to further the breeding process and these amazing dogs have become synonymous with military and law enforcement work over the last century. There are a few differences between the working line German Shepherd and the show line in disposition and appearance. The working line dog is bred to be stronger, healthier, and more able to work for long hours. These dogs also enjoy working. They are high energy, which is necessary for the type of work that they do. In appearance, working line dogs have a thicker coat. They are sturdier and thicker than show line dogs and their back legs are longer, giving them a straight structure. Show line dogs have shorter back legs, giving them a slanted back and a sleeker appearance. These dogs are bred to be agile and obedient. Excellent for protection, the Czech line is strictly bred and is noted for its dark coat. West German. The West German line is noted for its coloring and pleasing looks. They are also known to be calm in temperament. They do have a strong drive and great work ability. DDR German Shepherds are known for their athleticism. These dogs are more muscular and larger. They were bred for extreme conditions and difficult work, such as search and rescue. Protectiveness, Intelligence, and Trainability The working line German Shepherd is naturally inclined to protection. The breed likes and wants to do well with commands. They are very responsive and intelligent. But they need a firm hand from their owner and trainer. Depending on the line, most GSD can be described as aloof. They are intelligent and highly motivated. These dogs were bred for work, so they need to be exercised and worked regularly to maintain optimal health. These dogs are specifically bred to work and to carry specific traits and temperaments. Working line GSD are an excellent choice for military, law enforcement, and protection. Your breeder should be able to work with you to find the right dog, type, and temperament, depending on the type of work you want the dog to do. We can match you with the ideal German Shepherd puppy for your needs and work with you to understand all of the intricacies of the breed and training.

Website: Hilltopgoldenretriever. They want to breed healthy, content dogs that will make devoted companions. Four adorable Golden Retriever puppies wandering on the flower bed. What a lovely day! Every parent dog has undergone a health examination, and their pedigrees are posted on their website for anyone to view. The breeders socialize the puppies with kids and adult dogs and desensitize them to household noises. They also ensure all puppies are vet checked and certified. The pups come with AKC registration, a 1-year health guarantee, and litter pedigree. They will have received their latest shots and deworming. Nevani Goldens Nevani Goldens sets the standards high. They raise their dogs at home, where they interact with their children. The Golden Retriever puppy smiles while sitting on a blanket. Each parent dog has undergone genetic testing and received an OFA clearance. The breeders raise the puppies using puppy culture techniques, so the pups are content and healthy. They monitor their health from birth and offer a 2-year health guarantee with the pups. Her love for the breed soon made her a breeder, a passion she is very dedicated to. Golden Retriever family lying on the grass. She breeds animals at home and places a high value on temperament. They are also cleared for OFA, eye, elbow, and heart. Timberscombe Golden Retrievers Timberscombe is a family breeder that breeds healthy Golden Retrievers. The dogs are raised in their home and loved like family members. The breeding program does not use animals that do not pass these tests. The breeders feed them premium dog food so that they enjoy optimum health. The puppies are socialized to make them great companions. They are dewormed at 2, 4, 5, and 7—8 weeks of age and vaccinated at 6 weeks. All puppies come with limited or full AKC registration, depending on your preference. They accommodate buyers and are ready to meet them if they are within a 1. Breeder Details:. Our AKC Goldens are family members first and live inside right along with us. Our six children happen to be pretty awesome, built in, puppy socializers. The babies are raised using puppy culture and Avidog methods with early neurological stimulation starting at just 3 days old. Each puppy is loved and cared for as if it were my own. I set my standards high and continue to educate myself on the best practices to raise the best possible puppy. I strive to give your new family member the best possible start in life so that you can enjoy a happy, healthy dog for many years to come. All of our breeding dogs have OFA clearances hips, elbows, eyes and heart and have complete full genetic panels. I will do my best to update this site with planned breedings, stud services, expected and previous litters, and the occasional adult golden looking for a retirement home. Happy, Healthy Bloodline Each of our dogs have pedigrees full of health tested dogs. Each puppy comes with a 2 year health guarantee and my lifetime breeder support. A Furever Friend Golden Retrievers are meant to be a part of our families. They are as intelligent as they are beautiful, with a desire to please and eagerness to love. Every child deserves to grow up with a golden and no home is truly complete until you have welcomed one or two or three into it! Sign Up For Updates Be the first to hear about new litters, availability, retired adults, trained young adults and even helpful pet advice. Email Address. You must consider important elements like social and living conditions when choosing a Golden Retriever breeder. The way your Golden Retriever is raised will have a significant impact on their lives. Evaluate the conditions of the breeder and the treatment of every puppy. The type of dog breeder you choose is important, so consider different factors like the acreage, reputation, and pedigree. Considering how your New York dog breeder raised them is very important to their health and learning curve. If they raise your golden retriever in a positive environment, they should have an obedient and loving personality. As you select your puppy, consider the appearance, age, size, and gender. For instance, the gender of the Golden Retriever has a large impact on its personality. Choose a puppy compatible with your personality. Golden Retrievers can be outrageously disobedient without early training and socialization from their breeders. Without training from breeders, your puppy will certainly require professional training later in life to receive the required discipline that a Golden Retriever needs. Training in puppyhood can instill obedience in your dog, preparing them for a bright future of good behavior. Adirondac Golden Retrievers Adirondac Golden Retrievers is a certified dog breeder who only raises every type of Golden Retriever, from active companions who excel in their athleticism to compassionate companions. All puppies are raised in a loving environment with plenty of social interaction, allowing them to flourish in any home. In addition to raising healthy puppies, Adirondac Golden Retrievers trains their puppies in various therapies, professions, and hunting techniques. Many of the puppies that come from this breeder become professional work dogs like K9 units and assistants. Name of Owner. Marshall had enucleation eye removal surgery on August 7th due to uncontrollable glaucoma. His stitches have been removed and he's doing well. The surgery alleviated his pain to where he's back to his carefree, happy go lucky self, wagging that tail all around the house, nonstop! Hello, my name is Marshall! Let me tell you a little about me. I was found as a stray, but BDRA saved me from being put down by the shelter. My vet thinks I'm about years old but I'm still in great health aside from being blind. Even though I'm blind I learn very quickly. I could map your house in no time. I'm a little shy at first, but once I know you aren't going to hurt me, I will warm right up. I'm almost completely house-trained. I get scared and anxious when my humans leave the house because it can be scary being blind. I feel much safer when you put me in my crate when you have to leave or during the night. I sure hope my forever home has fur brothers or sisters. I LOVE my foster dog brothers and follow them everywhere. They are much smaller than me 10 lbs , so I make sure I'm extra gentle with them. I even have a foster handicapped kitty sister. I am fascinated by her and like to follow her as well. I make sure I'm gentle with her too. One time I even let her steal a few bites from my bowl while I was eating my dinner. My tail wags fast when I'm around her or my doggy foster brothers because they make me so happy. I'm still trying to figure out furniture so I prefer to stay on the ground instead of getting on the couch or in bed. I love having a memory foam dog bed. I take lots of naps, but I love going on walks. My humans taught me the word "careful" to warn me if I'm about to run into something. I'm still learning to "sit. She and the other staff tell me what a sweet and calm boy I am. I'm excited to meet my forever family and fur brothers or sisters. I sure hope you pick me. I'll make you happy with my sweet and calm personality. I look forward to meeting you soon! Recently we took him to a playgroup that required a 4-hour evaluation with a trainer. I was so excited when they said he was so well-behaved and adaptable with all of the other animals that he was marked as "green," meaning he gets a "free pass" to be part of any playgroup he wants large dog, small dog, hyper dog, calm dogs, senior dogs. They said had I not informed them he was blind that they would never have guessed it with how well he navigates spaces and his attentiveness to the other animals. Also, our neighbor names Marshall their "manny" due to how gentle and patient he is when he visits. When it comes to people, Marshall is a shy boy at first, but once he settles in, he is so gentle and loving. When it comes to other animals, Marshall warms up instantly! He's tested with cats and dogs of all sizes and does well with all of them. He currently lives with 2 small dogs and a handicapped kitty that adores him. He doesn't bark, which is nice. This is key to note because my current dogs are barkers, and he does not pick up on their bad behavior. Very rarely will he give a howl or two, but if he howls, then there is definitely a reason because of how rarely he has done it. It's kinda cute actually. He does not get up on the furniture i think it makes him uncomfortable , but he loves to be by your side. I call him my "happy boy" because he literally walks around the house wagging his tail all day. He never lets anything phase him. If you want a sweet companion and an added bonus that works well with cats and dogs , then he is your guy! Check out his video, you'll see what I mean! BDRA has voted against the use of electrical fencing effective immediately.

We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Huntington Station New York and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. Known as the Empire State, New York is located in the Northeastern United States and offers many dog-friendly experiences that you and your furry companion can enjoy together. Our main objective is to connect you with the best Mini Labradoodle breeders and puppies for sale in New York. Our website has a wide variety of reputable breeders that specialize in raising healthy puppies. Our breeders are committed to only raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations, veterinary checkups, and care to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide additional support and advice after the sale to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new puppy. New York has a fantastic dog community featuring numerous dog-friendly restaurants, parks, and events perfect for you and your four-legged friend. New York sits fifth among other states, with a population of over 2. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our trusted Mini Labradoodle breeders offer safe and affordable flight delivery. A dedicated flight nanny accompanies your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring a safe and comfortable trip as they make their way to their new home in the Empire State. In addition to flight delivery, most breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option guarantees your puppy is safely transported to your doorstep by a professional who understands the unique needs of pet travel. Please begin your puppy search for the perfect Mini Labradoodle puppy today on TrustedPuppies. We have answers. What are some fun facts about Labradoodle puppies for sale near Huntington Station? Labradoodles are a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, and they have become increasingly popular as pets. Labradoodles come in various coat types, from wiry to plush. They also come in a range of colors from black to buff to apricot. Fun facts about Labradoodles include that the breed is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and trainability, and they require minimal grooming. Furthermore, they're incredibly friendly, loving animals and make great companions for children, as well as adults. Are Labradoodle puppies for sale in Huntington Station hypoallergenic? Labradoodles, a mix of Labrador Retrievers and Poodles, are sometimes referred to as hypoallergenic dogs. Labradoodles have coats with more of an allergy-reducing effect because the coat is made up of finer hair instead of fur, and tends to do less shedding than other breeds. Do Huntington Station Labradoodle puppies for sale have special dietary needs? Labradoodles can be prone to digestive sensitivities which can require special dietary needs, depending on the individual dog. Generally, Labradoodles do best on a high-quality dog food tailored to their size, age, and activity level. For many Labradoodles, a minimal-ingredient diet or grain-free diet is best to avoid triggering food sensitivities. However, people should always consult with their veterinarian before making any major dietary changes. What are some essentials I should buy before getting Labradoodle puppies in Huntington Station? Before getting a Labradoodle, there are several essentials you should consider investing in. A quality crate and bedding is a must to help your dog get used to a secure, space of their own. Dog-specific shampoo and conditioner is also advisable to ensure your Labradoodle is kept clean and healthy. A good brush is essential to maintain the coat, while toys and chewable treats are integral in helping to keep your Labradoodle entertained. How fast do Labradoodles for sale in Huntington Station grow? Labradoodle size can vary greatly as they are a hybrid breed, but generally, they will reach heights between inches and weigh between pounds when they are fully grown. However, the size of a Labradoodle puppy will depend on its specific parent genetic makeup, which can vary greatly. Generally speaking, Labradoodle puppies tend to be a bit smaller than their fully grown size. However, it's best to contact a veterinarian or a breeder to get more specific details about an individual pup's size and expected adult weight. How many minutes per day should I walk Labradoodle puppies near Huntington Station? Walking your Labradoodle for at least 30 minutes each day is ideal, as it gives them the opportunity to take in their environment, go for a potty break, and receive your affection. While the amount of time you should walk them can vary depending upon their age, breed, and health, 30 minutes is a good general guideline. If you're not sure how long to walk your Labradoodle, consult your veterinarian to determine a specific plan tailored to your individual pet's needs. Are Labradoodles in Huntington Station good for first-time owners? Labradoodles can make fantastic companions for first-time pet owners. These designer dogs are gentle, loving, and easy to train, so they will fit right in with almost any household. They also tend to get along great with children, making them an ideal pet for a family. Their low-shedding coats also make them easier to groom than most breeds, giving them a major bonus for first-time owners who may be unfamiliar with how to groom a pet. With their intelligence, eagerness to please, and playful nature, Labradoodles will quickly become part of the family. How many minutes per day do I need to train Huntington Station Labradoodles for sale? The amount of minutes you should spend training Labradoodles per day depends on the age and energy level of the individual dog. Generally speaking, you should aim for at least 20 minutes of quality time each day. This time could include opening exercises, simple commands, or games that will help build the relationship between you two while also helping to keep the dog entertained and exercised. With proper training, your Labradoodle will be closer to building up a steady routine of minutes per day. This hour of quality training also includes outdoor walks or playtime in the yard.

Their looks can range from just slightly darker than a regular Pomeranian all the way to just slightly furrier than a regular Pug including all the adorable possibilities in between. They make a great family dog and, for those with no family, a cuddly companion. If these adorable balls of fur intrigue you trust us, if you are a fan of cute, Pom-a-Pugs will intrigue you then read on to learn more. Some versions of this mix come out looking no more different from a Pug, except for being furrier, or a Pomeranian, except for their darker color. However, there are some unique looks among the middle range. On average, a Pom-a-Pug will keep the long, thick fur, small size, and facial construction of their Pomeranian ancestors. These features are mixed with the squished face and darker coloring of their Pug ancestors. Getting down to specifics, the average Pom-a-Pug weighs between five and sixteen pounds and will measure eight to thirteen inches tall. Their coat will be short or medium-length and smooth to semi-course to the touch. However, the Pug side of their ancestry has suffered from health problems, from weight to breathing problems, which can shorten their lifespan. When taking both sides of their health history into account, we can see that the Pom-a-Pug will enjoy a medium-length lifespan at worst and a long one at best. You can expect your mix to live between eight and fifteen years. As mentioned before, their coat can range from short to medium-length and soft to semi-course feel. At the very least, we recommend you give your Pom-a-Pug a thorough brushing once per week. When bathing them, be sure to use shampoo meant especially for dogs free from harsh chemicals. Temperament The temperament of a Pom-a-Pug is perfectly suited to be an affectionate family dog or an energetic and cuddly companion dog. They often display a calm demeanor and a loyal and obedient attitude, always eager to please their owner. As a bonus, Pom-a-Pugs often have keen senses and a sharp alertness of their surroundings. They can act as guard dogs by warning their owners to abnormalities before they become dangers. Exercise Needs Pom-a-Pugs are energetic breeds and can turn rambunctious when not given the proper amount of exercise. A typical day would require you to take your mix for a moderately long walk to drain their energy stores. In terms of living space, Pomeranian-Pug Mixes require a medium-sized area to play and run around indoors. This does not mean, though, that they cannot do well in apartments. If they have had their walk appetite quenched, they are more than happy to laze around a small apartment all day. To keep your Pom-a-Pug mentally stimulated, we recommend you engage them in playful activity for at least thirty minutes each day. This can offer some bonding time as well and make your pet even more eager to please you. Health Risks As cute as they are, Pug-Pomeranian mixes are not free from health risks. There are several important health risks to watch out for that are common in this breed. When their leg is fully flexed, the kneecap can become out of place, causing pain and discomfort. Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca Dry Eye is, as the name suggests, a severe dryness in the eye. This can also cause redness, itchiness, irritation, and blurry vision for your dog. Pom-a-Pugs can also suffer from other minor diseases and injuries, but they are not as common as the above ailments. If you suspect your mix has these or any other illnesses or injuries, be sure to consult your veterinarian immediately. Feeding Your Pomeranian-Pug mix will be more than okay eating a bag of dry dog food tailored to small dogs. They will eat a cup of this dry food per day. Be sure to not feed them table food as their digestive system may not handle it. You can break the one cup of dry dog food up into different meals throughout the day, at your discretion. If your pet likes a morning and evening meal, go with two. If they like eating more often, go with breakfast, lunch, and dinner installments. Are Pug Pomeranian Mixes Protective? Despite their small size, some weighing as little as three pounds on the very light side, Pom-a-Pugs can be fairly effective guard dogs. Their alertness can help them warn their owner to anything out of the ordinary far in advance. Do not depend on your Pom-a-Pug to scare off any potential intruders, though. Mix that with strong loyalty to their owner and you will get a protective dog, even if the worse they can do is annoy someone away with their yipping. Being a designer breed, the Pom-a-Pug can come with a hefty price tag attached. That being said, there is a significant price range breeders sell these mixes at. As with any responsibility in life, the costs do not end there. Much like many important questions in life, only you know the perfect answer to this question. However, we can give you some tips to help make the deciding process easier. If you are in the market for a smaller-sized dog that is loyal, friendly, and compatible with families or as a companion dog and are not shy of the potentially high price tag, then the Pom-a-Pug is a great choice for you. Any climate in the U. The Attention a Pug Pomeranian Mix Needs Besides their exercise needs a moderately long walk each day , Pom-a-Pugs also need social interaction and play to keep them mentally stimulated and help them bond with their owners and family. For at least thirty minutes per day, engage with your pet. Whether that engagement is playing games and activities with them or petting them as you sit on the couch is up to you. Either extreme will help you and your Pom-a-Pug grow closer and develop trust. Compatibility with Kids Pom-a-Pugs can be patient and affectionate pets. This makes them a great complement to children. This breed will be able and more than happy to play games with your kids while avoiding unnecessary aggression. Their guard dog alertness is a great layer of protection. They will look after your children like one of their own and warn of any potential dangers to them well in advance. Compatibility with Other Animals Pom-a-Pugs are highly compatible with other pets, dogs and cats alike. Especially if they are raised with the other animal, they can form close bonds with them. You Might Also Like:. Lives best in warm weather and cannot thrive in extreme hot or cold. Temperament The Pug Pomeranian mix is a loving family dog emerging as a perfect companion, owing to its affectionate and charming personality. Having a calm disposition, they are extremely loyal towards their owners, always eager to please them. These well-mannered dogs mingle well with children as well as other pets. Having a very versatile personality, they are playful on one hand and at the same time have show a relaxed attitude. These small-sized dogs might inherit the alert nature of their parents and alarm their owner at the sight of an intruder. Care Exercise The Pug and Pomeranian mixes are playful and active loving to run around the house or an open space, thus requiring moderate amount of exercise daily. However, they do well in apartment life since they like to laze around and relax. Grooming This low maintenance breed are easy to manage, not requiring to be groomed much. Being moderate shedders, brushing two to three times in a week would help in keeping their coats soft and clean. Other grooming needs include keeping their eyes and ears clean, taking care of their dental health as well as bathing them when necessary. Health Problems The Pomeranian and Pug mix breeds are generally healthy with no known genetic issues. Though they have a short muzzle just as their Pug parents, they still are not too prone to respiratory disorders. Besides seasonal allergies they might suffer from dry skin during fall and even winters. Training These intelligent dogs would not be a hazard to train as they may pick up lessons easily because of their willingness and urge of making their masters happy. You can crate train your Pomeranian Pug mix puppies as they are extremely close to their owners and might be prone to separation anxiety like their parents when left alone. Crate training would even make housebreaking easier. Try throwing his favorite toys inside the crate along with delicious treats so that he finds everything familiar inside and is willing to spend more time there. Once your dog has a good knowledge of commands, teach it how to go to a certain place like his play mat. Engage it with interesting activities so that it may be willing to sit there unless you ask it to get up. These affectionate dogs can be taught how to plant a kiss on your cheeks without salivating much or licking you. Put your cheek in front and wait for your pet touch it with its nose. Pull yourself away so that he does not get a chance to lick you, give him a treat to reward his endeavor. However, if your dog is into the habit of nipping, this activity is not recommended, particularly for children. Feeding Give them half to one cup of dry dog food daily along with a diet containing vitamins and other nutrients. However, as they have a tendency of over eating make sure you keep a proper check on their diet. Lifespan Sociability Beware when going to view a litter of Pom-a-Pug puppies, as you are almost certainly going to bring one home. These gorgeous little pups are irresistible, and even just one may not be enough! Pomeranians used to be bigger. It may be hard to believe, but these little pint-sized pooches are originally descended from large, Spitz-type sleigh dogs. They were originally bred as sheep-herding dogs and used for sledding, but they became popular among royals in the 18th Century. Queen Victoria is often credited with the creation of the modern Pomeranian, as she is said to have owned a particularly small Pom, and consequently, this made them much sought after. The Queen is not the only famous Pomeranian owner, as they are known to have been the loyal companions of Michelangelo, Martin Luther King, and Mozart. Pom-A-Pugs are bred for companionship. Pugs were first bred almost 2, years ago, purely as companions. They have been loyal, loving, and devoted companions to humans ever since. A Pug is happiest on the lap of their owner. Although larger Pomeranians were first bred as working dogs, the pocket-sized modern Pom was bred as a loyal companion to the Queen. The combination of these two dogs is sure to result in the ultimate companion breed! Pugs have ancient roots. The Pug lineage stretches as far back as BCE, and most believe that they were first bred in ancient China or Tibet, where they were kept as loyal pets by Buddhist monks. Chinese Emperors kept Pugs as lapdogs, and they were consequently treated like royalty, with some sources claiming that they had their own miniature palaces and even personal guards. They can be rather protective of their owners and may take a while to warm up to strangers. Due to their heritage of companionship, they tend to become attached to one person and may act skittish around new faces. They have a strong desire to please, and despite their strong companionship instincts, they can exhibit independent natures at times. As long as their owner is within sight, they will enjoy going about their own business in the yard, sniffing out strange scents. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They love kids and are known to perform endless tricks to get their attention. Their tiny stature and incredible acceleration abilities will keep the family playing for hours, both indoors and in the backyard. Although these dogs love to run around in the open, they are highly adaptable animals that make great pets for apartment living or families with small back yards. The fierce loyalty and devotion to their role of dedicated companion may cause them to display assertive aggression at times, although these dogs have a bark that is infinitely bigger than their bite, and this usually leads nowhere. That said, they will occasionally pick fights with bigger dogs due to their larger-than-life personalities and will often get more than they bargained for. This is why they need to be well trained from an early age —not because they are inherently aggressive, but because they are extremely loyal and protective. Temperament Affectionate, friendly, loving, playful, and good with children. Pug mixed with Pomeranian makes one small dog, so you can expect a relatively light dog easy to carry around. Its ears may either be erect if it takes on the Pomeranian side and Floppy if the Pug side. The color can be unpredictable, and you can expect to either have a pure black or tan dog or sometimes a combination of both. Moreover, since Pomeranians are fluffy dogs, you can expect your dog to look like a pug but with a fluffy coat. Most of the time, however, you can expect the right combination of features of both dogs. Just make sure, however, to give them regular brushing to prevent fur tangling. The most important thing you need to know about Pug mixed with Pomeranian is their personality. Overall, their temperament is a great asset for the breed, as they can get along with almost anyone without any problem. They are incredibly loyal and affectionate, but can sometimes be stubborn and mischievous too. Pomeranian and Pug Cross Puppies for Sale The essential step in buying your puppy is choosing who to buy from. You want to make sure you buy from a reputable breeder, who employs ethical practices and has a standard. You can begin your journey by doing short research or getting recommendations from your friends, on where to get your forever companion. Are they a registered breeder? Health conditions of the existing animals in the area. Ask to look at the parents of the puppies. The health of your pups also depends on the health of its parents. Make sure they seem happy, healthy, friendly, and clean. The unfortunate reality of breeders is sometimes they keep breeding puppies without full regard with the condition of the parent dog, especially the mother. Ask for their health screening on all dogs. A good breeder will, at all times, have their dog parents and puppies regularly checked for any health conditions. How many dogs they have for sale? Are you buying from a breeder who runs a puppy mill, because as much as possible you want to avoid buying from those places? The breed is easy to manage, and it includes essential grooming responsibilities such as: Brush their coat at least two or three times a week to make their skins look shiny and beautiful. You want to avoid their fur from getting tangled, especially if they take on the coat of Pomeranians. Keep their eyes and ears clean. Using a soft towel, wipe any debris or discharge around their eyes, to prevent health complications from arising. Brush their teeth regularly to prevent plaque from accumulating and tooth decay. Give them regular baths, as necessary. Doing this prevents ticks from hiding within its coat. The Pomeranian and Pug cross is easy to manage, and you only need to be reminded of these important details for their grooming: Dedicate time to regularly brush their coat, using a metal-pin slicker brush, to help detangle their coat. Bathe them regularly, especially during the allergy seasons of the Pomeranian crossed with a pug. Make sure to use products which are gentle on the skin. Clip their nails, especially since the Pug mixed with Pomeranian are hyper and playful dogs. You want to avoid any situation of being unnecessarily cut. However, there may be some instance when they suffer from seasonal allergies and dry skin, which can nevertheless be treated. However, there are some health problems common to small dogs, such as the Pug and Pomeranian Cross which you need to watch out for. Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome — this is a condition which affects the upper airways of dogs, common in most flat faced and short-nosed dogs. This may be present in your Pomeranian mixed with a Pug if the dominant gene your pup will have is that of the Pugs. If you notice your dog becoming lethargic, or tremoring in the face, then they may be having an attack. Some causes include being obese, or too much exposure to smoke and dust. Whelping complications — this occurs among female dogs who experience giving birth. Since their pelvic opening is narrow and limited, giving birth can be limited. Here are also some health problems which may be particular to the Pomeranian Pug Mix: Dry Skin — this can be caused by allergies, parasites, or other medical disorders. For this specific kind of breed, its source should come from allergies. Left untreated, the skin condition worsens to atopic dermatitis and lead to secondary skin infections. Symptoms — the symptoms are easy to identify such as itchiness, flaking, scabs, and hair loss. Prevention — feed them with high quality and balanced diet, and groom them regularly to prevent any buildup of debris and dirt. Eye Infections — Some allergies can cause eye discharge, which is results in mucus-like substances forming around the eye and getting in the eye. If your pup takes on the eye of Pugs, you have to be particularly careful with their eyes, as it often protrudes from its face. Be mindful, however, that they still need to receive their daily nutritional requirements.

Imagine you could come home to a lovable, dedicated, companion for life! If you knew what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy, you could find your next best friend. Before you buy your new best friend, read this information so you know what to look for in buying a healthy, quality German Shepherd puppy. I group them into major categories. Will you show him in conformation? Do you want to work with him in Schutzhund or herding? Or do you want a confident and alert companion? Know exactly what you want from your puppy. These dogs are the least costly since they have a trait that prevents them from winning in conformation competitions. These flaws rarely matter to most pet owners. And many minor faults like flat withers or slightly smaller offset ears will probably go unnoticed by most owners. The vast majority of GSDs are family pets. These dogs make great pets as long as they have sound temperaments! They breed some dogs for certain traits that are highly desirable but considered a fault. For example, long-coat or plush-coat GSDs. Show-quality dogs have good temperament and health. You usually buy them for their breed standard qualities that make them able to compete in confirmation or show events. A show-quality dog may cost significantly more if they have the traits desirable to win at a show. This group comes from Championship show lines with a long history of winning. If you plan on showing your Shepherd this is the quality you want. Beware of any breeder who claims they only raise competition-quality dogs. Even the best breeders produce many pet-quality dogs and if a breeder says they only breed perfect dogs, this is a red flag to not buy from them. The GSD is a herding breed, and the working-quality dogs excel at working trials such as scent competitions and Schutzhund. Other work includes climbing and jumping competitions or searching and tracking. They need mental stimulation to keep them occupied and take a lot of time to handle properly. These dogs are better with experienced handlers since you use them for high drive working and competition. They require hours and years of training and preparation for you to have total control during competition. We base this decision on preference. With the correct upbringing and training, both sexes are loyal companions and good with children. They may grow into more dominant dogs, so a confident handler is more desirable. Males may hike their back legs to mark their territory. This can occur on any object — chairs, walls, couches or even your leg. I suggest an extra bout of socialization during this stage, especially with other well-behaved dogs. So they may be better for the first-time owner. Unspayed females come into season every 6 months, so they must receive monitoring and watch to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Their season time can vary from as little as every 4 months to every 9 months. They can attract males to your property and on walks that will harass them if not spayed. Certain breeders and organizations will deal only in a certain coat length and color. The standard coat length is a short coat with double layers. Guard hairs on the top cover a softer underlayer of hair that provides warmth and protection. But there are many coat lengths available depending on your liking. Look online at the different GSD coat lengths to get an idea of what type of fur you want your dog to have. The longer the fur the more grooming involved. The color you choose is a matter of individual taste. Keep in mind the color of many Shepherds alters from their puppyhood to around 2 years of age. Your dog may become lighter or darker. Perhaps they will lose some of their markings as the color fades into the adult pattern. The best way to know what color and patterns your dog grows into is to see the parents of the litter. If the father is unavailable, then ask for photos. Why should you care where your dog comes from if you only want him as a pet companion? You want to get a dog that will live a long and healthy life from a source that has quality puppies. These tips will help you make the best decision on what type of pup fits in your life. Newspaper and Internet Classified Ads Newspaper and internet ads are in abundance. Many backyard breeders hide behind ads online or in local papers. But some breeders who use newspapers and classified ads are reputable and knowledgeable. The problem is you need to visit them to find out, and this can take time to sift through them all. Try the following more reputable suggestions to save yourself time. Dog Care Professionals Ask dog professionals for recommendations. Check with your local veterinarian, groomer, and boarding kennel personnel if they know reputable breeders in town. These professionals are good sources of quality leads. Use the same caution that you will for a classified ad. Verify their suggestions. Many of these organizations regularly receive puppies they need to re-home. While you might not know the full pedigree of the dog, purebred GSDs find themselves in shelters and rescues from no fault of their own. These organizations are a good resource for your first pup. Before adopting, find out as much information as you can. Was the puppy exposed to children? Did he live with other dogs or cats? A well-organized shelter or rescue helps you choose a German Shepherd match for your lifestyle. Start with looking online for GSD rescues and local shelters. Dog Clubs Dog clubs are local and national. These groups put you into contact with registered breeders through their own programs. They can give you the name of the GSD club contact closest to you for breed contacts. Dog clubs also have dog shows open to the public. This is a good time to watch the breed in action and to ask around for quality breeders. While using a dog club to connect you with a reputable breeder is not the only choice, it is one of the more reliable. If you are using a breeder to choose your German Shepherd puppy, this section will help you know the good from the bad. Use these tips to stay safe. Are selling overpriced or under-priced dogs. Lie to you and say you can make money off your new puppy by breeding them, despite them having flaws. Tells you that the GSD is a dog for everyone, with no disadvantages. Breeds multiple types of dogs and claims to be an expert on them all. If a breeder lets their mothers get pregnant more than once a year, this affects the quality of the puppies, so ask how many litters the mother has. These breeders selling unhealthy puppies also will refuse to take bag their dogs if you need to return them for any reason and have no contracts. They have healthy puppies and will answer your questions and have you make multiple visits. Openly show you where the mother and pups spend their time, including their garden or yard. Tells you the up and downs of owning the breed. Have all pedigree and vet paperwork on hand for your review. Specializes in breeding only GSDs source. They openly share this information with you. They have screened their dogs for health issues and can confirm this with documentation which they proudly give you a copy. Healthy mothers are given rest from breeding, and a reputable breeder gives their mothers time off from reproduction. Ask if your breeder if they are willing to take back their dogs if you cannot keep them, as this is standard for a quality breeder with a good reputation. Make sure your breeder has a written contract with detailed information and health guarantees. These are expected for safe breeding practices. How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy Following this guide gives you the best chance of buying a German Shepherd puppy that suits your lifestyle. Know what you want from your GSD and where to find quality dogs. Learn what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy to stay safe from a sick pup and a bad breeder. German Shepherds have their own unique set of challenges. They are a large, active, and intelligent breed that requires an understanding owner who is willing to train their GSD using positive techniques. Devote yourself to their overall health to see the best results and help give you and your dog a lifetime of happiness. Remember, your pup will need mental stimulation to keep their brain active , a gentle exercise program , and need daily love and affection. Buying a German Shepherd puppy is a choice for your whole life that will bring you many years of joy and excitement! Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Are you at home to devote time and training to their growth? What open space environment is your home? German Shepherds are on the no dog list in apartment buildings. Do you have a family with other pets? Also, a good breeder will ask you why do you want this particular breed? The breeder should be concerned that a German Shepherd puppy is being placed within the best living environment. Here are some insights to help you bring home the perfect German Shepherd puppy: Types of German Shepherd Puppies Pure-bred German Shepherd puppies are available in a variety of colors and built. The typical description is light brown and black. Black: Rare and beautiful. Their coloring is either all black or a deep dark bluish hair tint. Panda: their coloring consists of black, white, and tan. This is their natural coloring, not contributed to being a mixed breed. Sable: A unique coloring of this breed consists of light black, grey, tan, or gold. As puppies, the Sable German Shepherd puppies are fully tan. As they age, fur begins to develop stronger natural colors. White: No, this German Shepherd breed is not due to albino coloring. Though rate, white is their natural coloring. This German Shepherd puppy will be smaller in size, whether male or female. The reason for this question is that German Shepherds are intelligent and engaging breeds. They can be trained to thrive in any situation and climate. Their ability to cope in any situation is amazing. German Shepherds make great companions, protective family pets, and they are hard workers. Knowing how to choose a German Shepherd puppy, you are wondering what things you should look for. In other words, you are looking to see if it has a good temperament. German Shephard puppies demand and exhibit affection rather aggressively. Parental Traits If you are choosing a puppy from a kennel or a breeder, inquire about its parental background. You want to know if both parents were healthy and friendly. Carefully Examine the Puppy You want to look again for a puppy that is active and healthy. To choose the best German Shepherd puppy, you must become an amateur canine detective and examine the puppy closely. Here are things to look for: A German Shepherd puppy should not look thin. Instead, they should look full-bodied. Their eyes should appear bright and clear. Also, you must invade their personal space by examining their butt area to make sure it is clean. Their nose should be clean and not runny. Their teeth and gums look healthy. Their hair coat should not have bald spots and should not be matted. Your German Shepherd puppy should be free from odors. Pick a puppy that has a good gait, and their tail is up and actively wagging. All puppies need their mothers when they are very young. A German Shepherd puppy can be purchased when they are between the ages of eight and twelve weeks old. If you decide on an older puppy, just make sure that it has retained its socialization skills with both people and other animals. Make sure that the puppy has gotten all its vaccinations and deworming medication. However, within 48 hours of purchase, take your German Shepherd puppy to your vet for a complete exam. The Kennel or Breeder Environment Whether you are purchasing your German Shepherd puppy from a kennel or a private seller, look at the conditions of both. How does the kennel look to you? Both kennels and private breeder yards should be clean, and all puppies should have clean water. Please do not buy a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder where the conditions are unclean. How Instinctive Are You? Many potential dog-owners state that they knew that this was the one when they first saw their puppy. We all have instincts; therefore, you will know what the right buying environment is when you look at the puppies. If you get a feeling that something is not right, leave and find a different breeder. When you purchase your German Shepherd puppy and bring that bundle of joy home, you want to feel confident that you have made the best decision. After all, the relationship with your German Shepherd puppy can last easily for up to thirteen years. Male vs. Female German Shepherd There are many people who only choose a German Shepherd puppy because of their gender or appearance. What is most important in purchasing any puppy is their physical and mental stability. Gender and looks should never be a deciding factor when choosing a dog that will live in your family for the next 12 years or more. Please perform thorough breeder research so that you can choose the right German Shepherd puppy that will fit into your living lifestyle for years to come. Do you want to select a female puppy for future breeding? If not, both your male and female German Shepherd puppy should be spayed and neutered. Female German Shepherds are found to have a sweeter temperament than their male counterparts. Male German Shepherds are more territorial. They also are a little more stubborn and proud. Male German Shepherds are generally larger than their female counterparts. The male can grow to a height range of up to 26 inches. Meanwhile, the female can grow to a height of up to 24 inches tall. Their weight will range from a full-bodied 75 to 95 pounds. When you are trying to decide whether to purchase a male vs. They make excellent watchdogs. Socialize Therefore, if you are going to be around other individuals each day, your German Shepherd puppy must be trained to accept people outside their family unit. Introduce your German Shepherd puppy to strangers so that they will feel comfortable in front of people. By introducing them to strangers, will help them stay calm. They do not like to be left alone for too long. Because they were originally bred for herding, German Shepherds have high energy and thus require physical and mental stimulation. Make sure you have the time and patience to own a German Shepherd puppy. In patiently taking time with their active habits, it will work out to your benefit. They become loyal and loving breeds, especially when raised in a family setting. Remember the TV show Dog Whisperer? The host always referred to a dog requiring a pack leader. German Shepherds must learn that you are the pack leader. If not, they will take the dominant lead, and this is not good. They must be trained and actively exercised to be happy. German Shepherds love to explore and investigate everything. If you live in an area where there are porcupines, lookout. Young German Shepherd puppies will probably come home with quills all over their body. Well, you would be wrong. A German Shepherd puppy will want to correct this wrong and approach another porcupine! Grooming a German Shepherd puppy is simple and easy. Yes, they do shed year-round, so brush them occasionally. But mostly keep their nails trimmed, their teeth and ears cleaned. Dog breeders believe that to help your new German Shepherd puppy adjust from a litter to your new home, they should be crate trained. They need to feel safe and comfortable. Crate training is a learning experience for a German Shepherd puppy, but it eventually helps them get used to a family who perhaps must go off to work every day. Further Reading. Of course, you have already read a lot of books with advice on how to choose the right puppy of a German Shepherd, east European, as well as a Newfoundland, Rottweiler, Spaniel, or Spitz puppy. You understand what is the fundamental difference between these breeds and why a Retriever puppy will never become a VIP bodyguard, and a black terrier will hardly ever pass for a draft husky. Why Opting For a German Shepherd Puppy Is a Good Choice The German Shepherd is prone to learning from a very young to deep old age, while many other breeds cannot boast of this, even if their appearance is more perfect than that of a German Shepherd. The most well-known characteristics that a German Shepherd owns are: pronounced protective and guarding instinct; the ability to make independent decisions, and active actions, and at the same time be completely submissive to the owner; sociability, playfulness, and curiosity; lack of aggression signs towards others and deep affection for the owner; a willingness to happily take on tasks, learn, and remain completely fearless when faced with unfamiliar surroundings or unforeseen difficulties; In addition, the Shepherd dog is calmly confident and features strong nerves, combativeness, and assertiveness which are the main qualities of a good service dog. Perhaps, due to this set of breed characteristics, few larger and more ferocious breeds can compete with a GS, both for guarding the house and as a personal protector. It is not recommended to take puppies under 4 weeks old from their mother. This applies not only to GSs but other breeds. At the age of one month, the baby has already been given all the necessary vaccinations. However, only a person who can devote a lot of time to raising a puppy can afford to take a Shepherd at such a young age. In addition to 6 meals a day, and socialization, the new owner will need to complete 1, different tasks, which require, above all, a lot of time. If there is no time, it is worth finding a puppy aged 4 to 6 months. And it is advisable to take such a teenager from a nursery that focuses on breeding German Shepherds and not all the breeds at once. It happens that a puppy stays in the nursery because the money deposit was given for it but, for some reason, people could not pick up the reserved puppy. If the grown-up German Shepherd puppy constantly lived in an aviary and was deprived of close contact with people and the outside world, owners who have not previously dealt with this breed should not choose such a youngster. These young dogs are for experienced cinologysts. Lack of socialization can be corrected but it cannot be fully eliminated. Testing for the Puppy and Its Future Owner You may already know how to choose a purebred German Shepherd by external signs under the age of 3 months. Simple tests will help you choose a puppy with the desired character. Visit the breeder at a predetermined time when the puppies do not sleep or, conversely, are not hungry. You are taking a future friend for life, and enthusiastic emotions with such a choice are inappropriate. When buying a new friend, inspect the litter meticulously. Pay attention to the following: eyes do not water; traces of diarrhea under the tails are not observed; wet noses are without purulent crusts; legs are straight and strong; fur is clean, reminding of the plush; on the skin under the coat, there are no signs of peeling and scabs; all puppies are active and well-fed; the body is elastic and strong to the touch; the puppy has a pleasant dog smell; the mother is not exhausted; bowls and bedding are clean; there is enough heat and light. Of course, the owner of the dog mother has already taken her to the next room. Those who paid attention to the unusual sound are yours. Throw carefully, of course a tennis ball at the puppies. Those who were not afraid and did not try to escape are yours. Those who, having scouted the situation, did not begin to whine , pressing themselves onto the floor, but hurried towards the bedding are yours. Pay attention to those who have shown interest in a new object. The best are those who took and dragged it. Keys and money are the dirtiest household items. This testing method was used 20 years ago. Today, it is dangerous for the health of puppies! Invite those who dragged the rubber duck to pull a piece of fabric. If the baby dog willingly starts the fight, not letting the cloth go when you pull it towards you, they are good boys or girls. Turn the puppy you like on its back and hold it with an open palm for a few seconds. A clear alpha leader is easy to identify by its non-calming behavior for seconds, and even trying to bite you in this position. It may not be your choice! You will get too many problems associated with the puppy, or it will never be possible to completely subdue it. The puppy that squealed, pulled back its paw, and did not lose its interest in you is yours. The one who barks trying to drive brothers and sisters away from the bowl is not for you. The one who gives up its place at the feeder is also not yours. Yours is the one who, regardless of the obstacles, has taken its place and calmly devours food, without moving from its point, snapping, and running around the bowl. Now, you have at best 2 or 3 puppies left in front of you. You need to select the fat-footed one who will try to get out through the opening without panic and squealing. The tests are simple, but they will allow you to select a good puppy and raise a real working German Shepherd from it without unnecessary costs and nerves. Talk to the breeder. Such puppies are sold at a more reasonable price, but the puppy card for them is mandatory to be filled out as well. If you are given puppies for free, in the absence of their mother, there is a reason to seriously consider whether it is a Shepherd dog at all, even if their mother has pedigree documents. This is not a dog of one owner! The versatility and flexibility of this breed are proven by the fact that GSs accept a new family and a new environment without any problems. The main thing for it is to have its own business — to serve a human! Of course, parting with the former owner seriously affects the condition of the dog, but it will not have a destructive effect on its psyche. And the sooner you engage the German Shepherd in work, the more chances you will have to become a new God for it. If the German Shepherd was properly brought up and grew up surrounded by people, it has working characteristics in good conditions, and the reputation of its previous owner is beyond all questions, such a dog will be quite useful to your family. Finding out the previous story and background of an adult GS why it is refused, what the complaints about its behavior are, and other prompting questions is a must! The reason may be the saddest and most trivial — the previous owner died, and relatives are not able to either support or care for the dog. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. November 8, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? The German Shepherd Dog, one of the top ten popular breeds in the United States, is known for their regal appearance, bravery, intelligence, and noble character. They are hard-working dogs that fit into a variety of service jobs, but can also be amazing family dogs, making them an all-around great breed for dog lovers! How do you know if the German Shepherd Dog is the right fit for you and your family? German Shepherd Dogs are a younger breed that started in Germany in by Captain Max Von Stephanitz who sought to create an unmatched herding dog. But as Germany became more and more industrialized, the breed shifted from herding work to police and military training. Hundreds of these dogs made their way to the United States during WWI, one such being a small five-day-old puppy that was rescued from a destroyed kennel in France and brought home to the states to Los Angeles. This puppy later grew up to be one of the most famous four-legged movie stars, Rin Tin Tin, starring in 26 movies, forever making the German Shepherd Dog breed a popular choice in the nation! If you are looking for an attractive dog, look no further! German Shepherd Dogs have beautiful coats, strong muscular builds, a square muzzle, long bushy tail, and a black mask. Some colors like red and black, or tan and black, have distinct markings such as saddle or blanket on their back. However, German Shepherd Dogs come in a variety of colors: sable, silver, liver, panda, solid black, and solid white. What are German Shepherd Dog Personalities like? German Shepherd Dogs can be reserved, often appearing aloof toward new people, but this very loyal breed loves their families and can be very affectionate. While they can be wary of new people and protective of their family, with the right socialization, German Shepherd Dogs can be friendly and easy-going. They are an intelligent and high-energy breed that thrives with a job to do. Due to this, without the proper or consistent amount of stimulating work, they can easily become bored and frustrated. Those feelings could translate into behaviors like barking, howling, or chewing. As they get older, they'll equally enjoy relaxing with you at home and getting up with you to do the next fun activity! If you are a lover of going for long walks or runs, enjoy hiking on the weekends, or trips to the beach depending on where you live, a German Shepherd Dog will gladly trot alongside you! German Shepherd Dogs while they can be independent, do crave to be with their family and offer great companionship. With crate training, your German Shepherd puppy will learn to adapt to being left alone for periods of time without developing separation anxiety, however, this breed thrives with interaction and will do best a puppy parent that can provide them with a balanced amount of alone and accompanied time throughout the day. Like many large breed dogs, German Shepherd Dogs can suffer from some common illnesses including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, degenerative spinal stenosis, and Von Willebrand disease. Thankfully, responsible breeders today have bred out many of these and improved the health of the breed significantly! When you bring home your new German Shepherd puppy, schedule their first veterinarian visit to discuss appropriate health care, proper nutrition and supplements, and exercise. German Shepherd Dogs tend to shed regularly and heavily twice in the year during the Spring and Fall season. With soft undercoats and harsher topcoats, they would do best with regular brushing once a week will help remove their dead fur and maintain healthy skin! Note: When looking for a reputable German Shepherd Dog breeder, go through an accredited website such as AKC for their breeder locator. Additionally, many pure-breed and mixed German Shepherds are available in rescues and shelters for adoption! German Shepherds are smart and hard-working, so puppy training will not only provide them with the stimulation they crave but also solidify your communication, trust, and overall relationship! Early puppy training Lay the foundation for good behavior the day your puppy comes home, introducing them to basic obedience. Keeping your puppy on a leash at home while under supervision will help to build their focus on you as their leader and also help keep them from darting away. Soon, build up to more obedience training commands, work on their focus through distractions, and start to introduce training in different locations such as your yard, or neighborhood to solidify their communication with you in any situation. Also, check out the rest of our Puppy Training and Puppyhood Made Easy for New Owners series to guide you through what to train your puppy next, how to troubleshoot, and other important topics every puppy owner should know! Going back to their wilder instincts, puppies will naturally avoid soiling where they sleep. Crate training your German Shepherd Dog puppy will help boost their confidence and resilience while learning to be alone at home. Socialization is a must German Shepherd Dogs are natural protectors and benefit greatly from being socialized with other dogs, people, new places, textures, and sounds. When done correctly, s ocialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on barking or jumping, which are common puppy behaviors when they are excited or over-stimulated when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer to help set you up for the best success! Consider advanced training to keep them engaged German Shepherd Dogs are very intelligent and have high-prey drives which mean they love to work! Along with basic obedience, dog sports like agility are a great way to motivate them and help your puppy work out their energy. Agility helps establish a stronger communication bond through body language while your puppy is participating. Developed as part of K9 and military dog training, this is a perfect activity for your German Shepherd to burn off some mental and physical steam! Did you recently bring home a German Shepherd Dog puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! This guide will help you learn how to select the best German Shepherd puppy to add to your family. Is a German Shepherd right for me? This is the first question you should ask yourself before you even consider bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy. You need to evaluate your personal and family lifestyle by asking yourself the following questions: Where do you live? German Shepherds are often on the restricted breed list for apartments. Do you spend much of your time at home, or do you have an active work and social life? Are you willing to spend more time at home on the weekends and evenings during puppyhood, even if it means missing social events? Do you love traveling a lot? If so, will you take your puppy with you? If not, do you have someone or someplace you trust to watch your dog when you travel? Is your whole family excited about the idea of a new German Shepherd puppy? Are you already active or willing to become more active? Do you have time in your schedule to devote to training? Knowing the answers to those questions will help get you a couple of steps closer to deciding whether or not a German Shepherd is the right choice for you. Important things to know about German Shepherds: German Shepherd dogs are sometimes affectionately known as German shedders. German Shepherds shed all year long , however, they blow their coats twice a year during which time they will shed exponentially more. When considering getting this breed, you should be comfortable having a dog that sheds. Trimming their nails , cleaning their ears, brushing their teeth, and brushing their coat regularly is sufficient. Of course, during the shedding seasons more frequent brushing will be needed. German Shepherds were originally developed for herding sheep. Accordingly, they have the desire to work and respond best to proper training from a young age, and an active lifestyle. German Shepherds are known to be clingy, so be prepared to have a shadow following you around the house and maybe even in the restroom. German Shepherds are good with kids and are great family dogs. However, they need proper socialization and training at a young age so they can learn how to behave around both kids and adults. German Shepherds require a lot of mental stimulation and have high energy levels, especially as a puppy. As much as I love Allie, she was more than a handful as a puppy. I have seen instances where people underestimate the time, energy, and training a German Shepherd puppy requires and get overwhelmed after bringing their puppy home. These people end up giving up their puppies. It breaks my heart to know these awesome dogs are given up because of a lack of knowledge when selecting a breed of dog. Although they are a handful if you are willing to put in the effort they are in my opinion one of the best breeds of dog to own. German Shepherds are too smart for their own good. They learn things scary fast and sometimes get themselves into trouble because of how smart they are. They learn your routine and habits, and they also learn when and how they can get away with mischief. German Shepherds are incredibly loyal and become very connected to their owners and family. German Shepherds are typically loving and affectionate. From the second I met Allie she greeted me with a wet tongue to the face. That is still her favorite greeting she will kiss anyone that will allow her to get close enough. German Shepherds need training. They need to know that you are the leader and in charge. If not, they will quickly take over the role of being in charge and that is where problems arise. A bored, untrained, not active German Shepherd can become one of the stories you sometimes hear on the news about a GSD being aggressive. In most of those cases, the problem was with the owners and not the dog breed as a whole. Adoption or Breeder? First, you need to decide if you are going to adopt a German Shepherd puppy or buy one from a breeder. Here are some of the benefits of adopting: Rescue puppies are often already sociable, at least partially trained, and loving dogs. Therefore, you will save a lot of time on house training your new puppy. Older puppies or dogs are likely to be calmer than a younger puppy. You are saving the life of a dog that might not have otherwise found a home. The cost of adopting is typically much cheaper than buying a puppy from a breeder. If you decide to get a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder, here are a few things that can help you identify a good, ethical German Shepherd breeder: Ethical breeders care about the health and wellbeing of the puppy and are not just in the business for money. Ethical breeders always make sure that only healthy dogs breed together and follow a strict breeding program where they ensure that breeding and puppy spaces are clean. They should also have papers showing the age of the parent and the family tree of the puppy. Ethical breeders will happily show you around their entire setup; they should have nothing to hide. Ethical breeders will happily answer as many questions as you have to ask. You want to select one that will be compatible with you and your family. Consider the following when picking a puppy from the litter: Choose a puppy that is sociable around you and other puppies. Pick a puppy that walks confidently with its head high and tail up and wagging. Choose a puppy that has clear eyes, ears , and teeth, walks evenly, and appears clean. Basically, choose a puppy that looks healthy. Look at the personalities of the puppies. Choose a welcoming puppy that wants to greet you as opposed to one that retreats or appears shy. Ask to interact with each puppy one by one after seeing them with their littermates. That way you can get a better sense of how the puppy responds to you without distractions. If possible, visit the litter at least three times before making a final decision, this will allow you to determine the personalities of each of those little fluff balls, and see which would best fit into your family. How old should a German Shepherd puppy be when you take it home? Any puppy should be at least 8 weeks old before being separated from their mother. By this timeline, their sensory organs will have also developed fully which will help you to spot any deformities or medical issues. Be wary of any breeder that will allow you to take your puppy home before 8 weeks old. How do you puppy proof for German Shepherds? German Shepherds are naturally active and tend to explore the world with their mouths, especially during their adolescent period. So, before you can bring your new puppy home, there are a few things you can do to puppy-proof your house: Get rid of any poisonous plants or put them out of reach of your new puppy. Cover electrical cords with cable wraps or PVC pipes. Buy a new laundry basket that has a lid, no holes, and is tall. Make sure both your kitchen and bathroom trash cans have lids. Your new puppy will dig around for anything to bite, like chicken bones, diapers, used hygienic products, or even a disposable razor. If possible, you should buy new trash cans that only open when a button is pressed. Store all the chemicals in secured cabinets or even better on high shelves. German Shepherd puppies have strong teeth and can open plastic containers by biting through even the toughest of plastic! Put away any small items or toys that are small enough for your puppy to swallow. Think of small kid toys like Legos or dollhouse furniture that could be dangerous for a curious puppy. Find a safe spot for your shoes. Whether in a closed closet or in the laundry room behind a closed door. I remember losing a pair of brand-new shoes because I forgot to put them away and Allie thought chewing them was a fun idea. Bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy The period of bringing a new German Shepherd puppy home and introducing them to your home and family takes time and above all, patience. If possible, plan to take off work for at least a few days after bringing your puppy home. I picked up Allie on a Saturday, and then took most of the following week off to spend time getting her adjusted to her new home. Remember, your new puppy has been taken from the only family it knew, and you are now their new family. That first week home was a good week of bonding with Allie. It helped her feel comfortable with her new life and allowed me to really get to know my new beautiful energy filled puppy. The best tip for a smooth transition when bringing your German Shepherd puppy home is to begin crate training and potty training as soon as possible. As a breed prone to separation anxiety , you want to give your GSD a zone to feel safe, comfortable, and content to be on their own. While the initial steps of crate training can be time-consuming, it can make the difference between a dog that is a joy to own, and one that can never be left on their own — so, be the dog parent your pooch deserves and put the time in! New German Shepherd puppy checklist and things to buy It is important that your new puppy feels welcomed into their new home. Some items are ok to be left with your puppy, and other items are more dangerous or will be destroyed. This checklist will help you to know what to buy when getting a puppy. New German Shepherd Puppy Checklist. Final thoughts Where do I start? The first thing that you have to do before you can pick out the best puppy, is to pick out the best breeder. This may come easily, as you may already have a breeder in mind that you trust and who has a good reputation. But chances are that you will have to do your research. And there is also a good chance that you may need to travel some distance to the right breeder. Even if the breeder is several states away, consider making the trip. Getting a new GSD puppy is a significant life commitment. The effort and time that you invest now in going about this properly will pay off for years to come. Here are some important things to look for in a breeder once you locate one that you are interested in pursuing. Call the breeder and have a conversation The first thing to do is call the breeder and have a conversation. A quality German Shepherd breeder will actually require this. They will not permit someone to just show up and purchase one of their dogs and take it home. They will ask you questions such as: Why do you want a GSD puppy? This will aid them in helping you choose. Where do you live, in an apartment or in a home? They will want to ensure that the puppy will not be in a cramped space. Do you have a yard, and is it fenced-in? They will want to make sure that the puppy will have adequate room to exercise as it grows. Do you have children in your home? They will want to make sure that you understand the importance of socialization and training to keep your family safe. Do you have other pets in your home? They will want to make sure that you know how to properly introduce the puppy to other animals, and whether any other pets you have may actually be a danger to the puppy. What type of work do you do, does it require you to be away from home for long periods of time? Because GSDs do not do well alone, they will want to make sure that you have adequate time to devote to your dog. Are you financially prepared to take on a GSD? While this may be a bit of a personal question, it is important to know that you are financially able to care for a GSD. They are expensive to care for, and it is fair for a breeder to ask this question. If a breeder does not ask you some form of these questions, then perhaps think twice. It may be an indication that they are more interested in profit than raising a quality puppy that they care will go to a quality home. Questions for you to ask the breeder: How many different types of dogs do you raise? Can you provide me with a pedigree of all of your puppies? A pedigree is essentially a family tree for your puppy. A good breeder should have a detailed pedigree for any dog they sell. Beware of any breeder that wants to charge for this or says that they will provide it at a later date. Do you have references? They should provide you with several without thinking twice. All reputable breeders will offer this guarantee in the form of a written contract. Do you breed your females more than once a year? Female GSDs should not be bred more than one time per year. This allows for adequate recovery time and maintains good health. Can you provide me with a detailed medical history for your puppies? Health screenings are essential for puppies, and a reputable breeder should be able to provide proof of these. Can you explain any potential health issues for GSD which may come up later in life? A knowledgable breeder should be able to clearly explain conditions like hip dysplasia and other health issues more common in GSDs than other dogs. If the answer to any of these questions comes up as unsatisfactory, move on. It is simply not worth the risk of pursuing the breeder any further. Unfortunately, there are far too many unethical breeders who take a lot of shortcuts which results in dogs prone to both health and behavioral issues. Why is this? You should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. More than half of the states in the U. And out of those states, only 3 permit a puppy to be offered for sale under the age of 8 weeks. The reason for these laws is primarily so that puppies are properly weaned from their mothers and able to eat on their own. In addition to weaning, puppies need to be initially socialized by their mothers as well as their siblings. So a puppy will be taught that these things are bad during these 8 weeks. If you remove a puppy from the litter too early, they may not learn these lessons and develop behavioral problems as they get older. Much like a spoiled child that never learns, often times the source of an ill-behaved puppy can be traced to a lack of discipline at a young age. So to ensure that you have a healthy puppy, that is also sold in accordance with state laws and regulations, understand that it must be 8 weeks old see link above for exceptions — regardless of state law exceptions, waiting 8 weeks is good practice. Decide whether you want to male or female You may have a personal preference for either a female or a male German Shepherd puppy. It is important however to not necessarily just go with your gut on this one. Take a moment and understand some general differences between the two genders. I will explore this issue more in-depth in another post, but here are some important general points to consider. Territorial: Males are naturally more territorial than females. This may give them more of a tendency to wander off in an effort to broaden their territory. Very possessive: Male GSDs are generally more possessive than females. They may be possessive over food and bones, toys, and you! Dominance: Male German Shepherds tend to be more dominant than females. This may result in more of a proclivity towards aggressive bullying behaviors to make sure that it is understood that they are the boss. Dominance requires training to keep it in check. Singular bonding: Male GSDs tend to bond more closely with one person rather than a group of people like a family. Territorial: Females are therefore more welcoming and less territorial than males. They are also less likely to wander off as they have no desire to expand their territory. Dominance: Females display less dominant behaviors than males. Non-singular bonding: Females are more likely to bond with a number of people in a family rather than an individual person. So, how do I choose between the two? This question comes down to the purpose for which you want a German Shepherd. If you are looking for a dog to have trained in protection and are looking primarily for a four-legged security system for your home, then a male is a good choice. However, if your primary interest is to just have a family pet that socializes well with others, then a female is probably right for you. Testing the puppy There is no better way to determine whether or not a specific puppy is the right one for you than to actually get hands-on and doing some investigating. However, even before you begin any interactions with a puppy, make sure that you are testing the correct one. Never try and force any interaction, begin with puppies that are naturally drawn to you. Just like with people, you cannot force a match and expect fruitful results. So be patient and make sure at very least that the puppy is not aversive toward you before you being. The tests: Clap your hands: Does it run away or does it come? A more timid dog may, however, be apprehensive to approach. Make eye contact: When the puppy is looked at, does it stare back at you? If the puppy looks directly at you, it is showing confidence. Vocally call the puppy over to you: Does it come to you right away? If it does how not, however, this could show a behavioral issue or hearing problem, or it could be an indication of another illness as well. Pet the puppy: How does it respond to your touch? However, if it meets your touches with biting or growling, then this is likely an indication of an uneven or bad temperament. It will not just grow out of this, it will have to be trained out of it. Bring a ball with you to test with the puppy: Roll the ball and see what the puppy does. Does it follow it and then bring it to you? Or does it take it away for itself. A more dominant puppy will just take the ball and keep it for itself, reluctant to give it back to you. On the other hand, a more independent puppy may show no interest at all. And one that is submissive may actually be frightened. If you are looking for a very sociable puppy, look for the one that brings the ball right back to you to play some more. The puppy that brings it right back is also an ideal candidate for training in retrieving and other exercises. An even-tempered puppy will show interest in and play with the toy, but it will also allow you to participate and take the toy back without showing you any aggression. Roll the puppy over: Once the puppy comes over to you, gently roll it onto its back and hold it in place. Do not be forceful but be firm. See how the puppy reacts. Is it resisting, or is it just relaxing? A puppy with a more dominant personality will take the path of most resistance, and it may growl or attempt to bite at you. And the even-tempered puppy is the one that may resist for a short time but then submit to what you are doing. Pick up the puppy: Physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it underneath its chest with an open hand. Lift it up high, even above the height of your head and hold it there. What does the puppy do? Does it struggle, or does it stay relaxed? A puppy that struggles may be fearful or dominant. On the other hand, a puppy that stays absolutely relaxed is displaying confidence in itself and trust in you. Hold on to a paw and press it gently: This is somewhat similar to holding it on its back. If there is a response to be had, it will happen immediately. Resistance or pulling the paw away may show dominance and temperament towards aggression. The even-tempered puppy will be you curious as to what you are doing. It may investigate a little and might even lick you. Make an unexpected noise: Whether it is banging a pot and pan together or just yelling, create an unexpected noise. See what the puppy does, does it show fear, interest, or aggression? A fearful puppy may run away or even whimper. While an aggressive-tempered puppy may actually growl and try to bite you. An even-tempered puppy will simply look surprised, and may even want to investigate a little bit further. Meet the parents A lot of breeders will have both the father sire and the mother bitch of the puppies on site. However, some of them will only have the mother because sometimes the father is on loan as a stud from a different breeder. But the mother for sure should be on site, and you should get an idea of what she is like. In the case of my last German Shepherd, I was able to meet both parents. His mother was very kind and sociable and eager to be petted. While on the other hand, his father was clearly dominant, and not a dog to be messed with. Because of my prior experience and knowledge, my GSD turned out exactly as I thought he would — fairly sociable yet wildly protective of me. This was all right because I knew what to expect and I was able to train my dog properly to take the edge off of some of his more dominance behaviors. However, my choice was an informed decision based on years of experience. If you are new to owning a German Shepherd, this may not be an ideal combination. I would recommend for a new German Shepherd owner to consider making sure that both parents are more docile, and possibly even lean towards acquiring a female for your first German Shepherd. Visit the puppy on more than one occasion Just like people, puppies have their on days and their off days. You will not be able to get a very accurate picture of how your puppy will be on one short visit. In fact, with my last dog, I visited him at least 4 times and stayed for at least 30 minutes with him each time prior to taking him home. A good breeder will have no issue with you doing this, and in fact, will prefer it. They want their dogs to be well-matched with their new owners, so this is common practice. The puppy should become accustomed to the people it will soon be spending its entire life with. So the more familiarity that you build now in this phase, the easier that puppy will transition to home life with you and your family. All of these steps are positive reinforcement for your new puppy and will build familiarity and a bond even before you arrive home. Also, bring a small blanket or clothing item and ask the breeder to leave it with the puppy. This will allow your puppy to become familiar with the scent of you and your home. Making for a better transition. So by default, this knowledge enables the breeder to be very good at placing the proper puppies with the proper personalities. Remember to stay focused and not lose sight of your primary objective, which is to select the right puppy for you and your family. If you take the time and care to do your research and ask the right questions, you will come together with the right puppy for you. But remember, this is just the beginning of a major life commitment. So take this step of choosing the right GSD puppy seriously, and you will have laid the foundation for a loving and rewarding relationship for years to come. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.