labradoodle puppy training schedule
Twitter Pinterest Searching for the best toys for Goldendoodles that will make your pupper over-the-moon happy? Then welcome to our pack! Best toys for Goldendoodles In a hurry? Here are our top choices. This is especially helpful for those Doodles who are finicky eaters. Peanut butter xylitol-free is a popular choice for many pet parents. I like to use a peanut butter-filled Kong toy as a happy distraction when brushing and grooming my Goldendoodle. Since most Goldendoodles are energetic and many are natural retrievers, this ball is ideal for all those endless rounds of fetch you can play together. The thick nylon tassels combined with the round body think of an octopus give dogs plenty of tugging action. Why is it a winner for Goldendoodles? The squeaker, of course. All the toys included in this list have been played with, loved on, and generally enjoyed by one very happy, inquisitive, chewy, and smart adult Goldendoodle. Goldendoodles, a hybrid of the Golden Retriever and the Poodle breeds, are typically very intelligent dogs. Our Goldendoodle loves having to work for her food and I love that it stimulates her mind. Why we both like it: I like using this interactive puzzle toy at mealtime as a substitution for a regular dog bowl. First, I ask her to sit and stay. Then I say, Get it! For dogs who gobble their food, the slots and sliders slow mealtime down. It makes a great boredom buster. The material is surprisingly durable and the construction is solid. What could be better: This puzzle has a difficulty level of two. If your Goldendoodle has solved food puzzles before and needs more challenge, you may want to go up a difficulty level. In full transparency, we purchased two interactive puzzle toys from the Nina Ottosson brand. The one in the photo above was hands down our favorite—the quality of the material was much more durable. Best classic dog toy What it is: A wobbly toy you can fill with treats. My favorite way to use this toy is as a happy distraction during Goldendoodle grooming or at-home dog nail trims. I have several Kong toys that I partially fill with peanut butter and pop in the freezer. BTW…check the ingredient list on your peanut butter before giving it to your dog. Freezing makes licking all the yummy treats inside the Kong toy extra challenging for my dog. Why we both like it: The wobbly shape makes it more challenging for my Doodle to get to the yummy treats inside. The rubber material is durable yet easy on the teeth. What could be better: If you do wash it by hand, I find it hard to get all the ridges clean. Breathe Right Fetch Ball Best fetch ball for physical enrichment What it is: A fetch ball that is hollow, flexible, and designed so dogs can breathe easier when the ball is in the mouth. Even as a Goldendoodle puppy , she was a natural retriever. Would it really hold up? Turns out…YES! At last count, I think we have four Chuckit! Breathe Right Fetch Balls. Since the ball is super lightweight, I know all those airborne catches will be gentle on her mouth. A tired dog is a happy dog! For us, these balls have stood the test of time and given us many joyful games of endless fetch. The ball comes in four sizes. My dog, a medium Goldendoodle , plays with the medium-sized balls. Some reviews mention dogs chewing and destroying this ball. Why we like it: It gives energetic Doodles plenty of physical exercise. It feels a bit heavier than the average frisbee, so you may have to adjust the amount of fling you put into your toss. Worth mentioning, we also have a Kong flying disc that our Goldendoodle plays with too. We use both frisbees and rotate them just to keep it interesting for her. As with any toy, supervise during play. You know your dogs best—whether they can play nicely together and whether they are toy aggressive. They like to play chase games as well as play tug with each other. What could be better: No toy is indestructible. Eventually the tassels on this toy frayed from play and they started to pull away from the body. At this point, I put the toy up. However, I was satisfied that it lasted for many puppy playdates. My dog gets so excited over the squeak. BPA free. For a complete list of dog toys and other products we have used and recommend please visit our Goldendoodle Supplies store. What makes a good dog toy for Goldendoodles Wondering what makes a good toy for a Goldendoodle? Here are three ways I evaluate which types of toys make it into our home. These are both standards that I first learned from integrative veterinarian Dr. Julie Buzby. Dogs can easily break a tooth chewing on a hard toy. Does the dog toy provide plenty of canine enrichment? I try to keep a variety of dog toys around our home for physical, cognitive, and social play. How safe is it? If the strings from a rope toy are ingested, they can cause intestinal blockage. Be careful out there, Doods. Finally, while these dog toys make my Goldendoodle happy, every Doodle dog is different. As with all toys, please supervise your dog when playing. Better yet, play along with him or her! And if your dog starts to pick or chew or pull a toy apart, quickly remove it. Safety first and happiness will follow! Play happy. Play together. Thank you for checking out our list! Wholesale 6 Best Dog Toys for Goldendoodles and Labradoodles Growing in popularity throughout the world, the Goldendoodle is a lovable, energetic bundle of fluff that brings happiness to every home. These adorable teddy bear like dogs are also destructive chewers. In need of a Holiday gift for the special goldendoodle in your life, check out our goldendoodle gift guide. From dog toy giftboxes to mugs, we have everything you need for the dood in your life. These toys are especially fabulous because each toy includes a secret squeaky ball inside so you really get 2 for 1. It comes in sizes perfect for small and large dogs and adorable designs like koalas, cactus and pigs. Our raving fans give this toy a 1 paws up! The Bob-A-Lot is designed to store dog food and kibble but the small openings make it challenging for your dog to retrieve them. The Bob-A-Lot is made of durable, non-toxic materials and is also dishwasher safe for convenient cleaning. Click here to purchase from Amazon. Goughnuts Ring Toy The 1 sturdiest dog toy on the planet hands down. This GoughNuts Ring bounces, rolls and even floats, so it can stand up to extreme games of fetch and all types of outdoor play. Click here for more details. West Paw Hurley Bone This classic bone is a safer alternative to wood sticks and is best for dogs who love to gnaw and play fetch especially in water. Hurley's classic design makes it easy for dogs to carry in their mouthes while its bright colors, make Hurley easy to spot indoors or out. Made in the USA, it floats and its non-toxic. Click here for details. Benebone Chew Toys One of the leading dog chew brands, Benebone is certainly a fan fave. Their chews are all made in the USA and come in yummy favors your pup will love like chicken, mint, peanut butter and bacon! The company is also fully committed to the welfare of dogs through product donations and community involvement. They are sold via amazon or at your local high end retailers. Sodapup Coffee Treat Dispensing Toy Sodapup is one of our absolute favorite toy companies for heavy chewer dog toys. Their toys are made in the USA, are extremely durable for tough chewers and the owners of the company are fantastic. Click here to learn more about their treat dispensing dog toys. If you're still searching for the perfect holiday gift for your dog, our adorable and trendy plush dog toys are always a great gift. If you need a gift for the special goldendoodle in your life, check out our Holiday Gift Guide For Goldendoodle Lovers Brought to you by Patchwork Pet- a leading plush dog toy company based in sunny southern California. But, not just any toys, chew toys. They go through a teething phase like our human babies. During this time, it seems like everything is a chew toy. So, if you want to save your furniture and shoes, we recommend chewing toys. Keep reading to find the best chew toys for a Goldendoodle puppy and the worst. Ensuring Safety Before we start talking about the best chew toys for a Goldendoodle puppy, we need to talk about safety. Every year hundreds of dogs are rushed to the emergency clinics for toy-related accidents. Too small of a chew toy could be a choking hazard. Every chew toy has various sizes intended for different weights. It is best to keep within the products recommended size chart. No Loose Parts- Any toy that you give your puppy should not have any loose or dangling parts. That means no ribbons, buttons, or moveable pieces. Puppies are compulsive chewers and will chew these pieces off and eat them. Loose parts are not only a choking hazard, but can also become lodged in the intestines. Inspection- You should be checking toys every day. Any toy that is compromised is a hazard to your dog. Always look for chipped pieces, cracks, and all parts are functioning. They could also pose as an intestinal blockage if accidentally swallowed. Avoid Stuffing- If your dog is being left alone with toys, it is best to avoid stuffing. Puppies destroy toys in the blink of an eye. Stuffing poses a choking hazard and blockage potential. Getting unstuffed toys for when you are gone is safer. Avoid Batteries- If you have toys that are battery operated, it is best to leave them for supervised playtimes only. If your puppy chews into the battery, they could get severe burns and poisoning. Know Your Dog- If your dog is an aggressive chewer, it is best not to choose soft toys. And vice versa. For teething puppies, you want to choose something softer. As your puppy ages and gets adult teeth , they can handle tougher chews. Supervision- The most critical part is always to supervise your puppy with any toy. All toys break and can pose a danger, and nothing is indestructible. If you follow all of these safety rules, then your puppy should have no problem with most toys. These chew toys can be dangerous and pose risks that most people do not understand. Nylabone Plaque Attacker Nylabone is one of the first branded chew toys. They make some wonderful edible chew toys. But, toys such as the Nylabone Plaque Attacker poses a real danger to puppies. This toy, and many like it, have small sharp pieces meant to stimulate and clean the gums. But these pieces easily fall off, and your puppy will likely swallow it. Rawhides Rawhides are strips of leather that are chemically processed with formaldehyde and arsenic. Not only are these chemicals harmful to your puppy, but the rawhide itself is a choking hazard. Hundreds of dogs a year are hospitalized after ingesting pieces of rawhide that get lodged in the intestines. The only way to remove them is with surgery. Even with supervision, it is best to stay away from the rawhide bones, rolls, and strips. Soft Rubber Stay away from soft rubber chew toys. These toys fall apart, and your puppy is more likely to eat the pieces. These small pieces can come off slowly at first but can make the entire toy crumble with aggressive chewing. Cow Hooves And Antlers These chew toys can be used with constant supervision, but you should be warned. These hooves and antlers can cause significant damage to aggressive chewers. Puppies have cracked teeth and even break their jaw on these bones because of their durability. If your dog is a soft chewer, it is safe to use with supervision. Cooked Bones Cooked bones of all kinds splinter and can cause the same issues as cow hooves. Bones that you typically get from pet stores are all cooked, and therefore should be avoided. You can, however, go to your local butcher and ask for raw cow knuckles for your puppy to chew. They will love the flavor and nutrition. This will eliminate trips to the vet and any safety issues that you might have with other chew toys. Below is our list of the best chew toys for a Goldendoodle puppy. If your Goldendoodle loves sticks, then they will love these natural Dogwood flavored chews. This toy is durable and tastes excellent. They are also safer and come in a variety of sizes. These sticks come in several sizes to match your pup the best. These natural rings are easy to digest and full of flavor. Your puppy will love the shape of these rings. You will enjoy the long-lasting durability without compromising safety. They have a great smell and robust flavor. The Soup Bone is nutritious and completely edible. They even come in regular and mini sizes for smaller puppies. They not only help your puppy teeth but they also safely clean teeth and gums. These sticks start hard, and as your puppy chews, they become soft and pliable. They are easily digestible, durable, and tasty. Homemade Jerky Chews If you own a dehydrator, you might be interested in making your own jerky chews. Here are a couple of our favorite easy recipes. This homemade jerky has an easy step by step instructions. They even give you instructions on using your oven as a dehydrator. With so many protein options, this is a great place to start. These recipes are perfectly marinaded and keep your puppy coming back for more. Here is another great dehydrated sweet potato recipe that is sure to be a hit. Dehydrated sweet potatoes can be a great teething toy for your Goldendoodle puppy. The only thing we would not recommend about this toy is attaching it to a rope. The rope could break with chewing and become a choking hazard. In the first few days, they seem excited and love their new toys. But then the novelty wears off. How do you prevent this? With puppies, less can sometimes mean more. They can get overwhelmed with so many options that they choose nothing at all. To keep your puppy engaged, there are a few things you can do. Toy Rotation— Have enough toys that you can switch them out every few days. Every time you bring out an old box, it will be like new all over again. Variety— In this rotation, make sure that you have a variety of different chew types, flavors, textures, interactive, and unstuffed toys. The mixture will keep your puppy interested. It will also help you learn what he likes or dislikes. Work Rotation— Have a different rotation for when you are gone to work. This might sound like a lot of toys, but it is a sure-fire way to keep your puppy engaged in his toys. It will keep your puppy happy, and your property safe from puppy teeth. In Conclusion While your dog grows and you get a sense of what they enjoy, you can add even more variety to their chew toys. Hopefully, you can get through the teething years without too much damage to your furniture and shoes. Below is a Pinterest friendly photo…. Sharing is caring! Check Price This toy is a textured hard rubber ball that looks like a glorified tennis ball. It is intended for heavy chewers, which makes it perfect for Goldendoodles. This toy has a 4. They also make a squeaker ball that is on the top of many dog toy lists. It is constructed of soft rubber and durable multilayer nylon, this is the perfect solution for fitness, exercise and training. Best Tug of War Toys For Goldendoodles The trouble with most ropes or other tug-of-war toys is that they are not very durable. While aggressive chewers can be hard to satisfy, we found a couple of toys that are made for large dogs. The toy comes in two sizes, and the handles are plenty big to let your Golden puppy clamp down and pull. This toy stretches and recoils and is completely indestructible. Unlike most ropes that last about a day. Goughnuts Maxx Check Price This durable toy looks like a figure eight where your dog latches onto one end, and you hang on the other. It stretches, recoils, and will provide a lot of wonderful play time for your Goldendoodle. The trick about this toy is its width. A dog cannot complete their bite if the toy sticks out the sides of its mouth, so your dog will keep trying to readjust its bite around the toy. This toy comes in two sizes, so depending on how grown your Goldendoodle is, you can purchase the appropriate-sized tug toy. Conclusion When searching for the best toy for your Goldendoodle or any breed it is best to keep in mind the activity and intelligence level of your dog. Some breeds like the Goldendoodles need the proper amount of care by providing appropriate mental and physical activities found in toys meant for these purposes. Mental challenges will help your dog learn and keep his brain active, just remember you should always supervise your dog while playing with their toys. As pointed out, dog toys can satisfy different purposes; puzzle toys for mental ability, fetch toys for exercise, and chew toys to stave off boredom, with the added benefit of improving dental care. When it comes to dog chew toys, new studies have shown that certain unsafe dog toys usually Chinese expose dogs to many harmful substances, for example, dog chews containing rawhide can possibly contain Salmonella or E. Further, digestion issues can occur in some dogs, therefore, it is best to avoid these types of toys including pig ears and cow knuckles. Conclusion 21 Great Dog Toys for Goldendoodles While the best toys for your specific goldendoodle just depends on their temperament, play and chew styles and size, the following list includes the most popular and in-demand dog toys of the season and are ideal options for these energetic, intelligent mixed breeds! Plush and Chew Toys Without a doubt, some of the best toys for goldendoodle puppies includes a nice selection of soft stuffed animals and fleece toys! The first layer is an adorable stuffed cactus with two arms. Not only that, but the squeaker has a section with little plastic nubs perfect for teething puppies! Handmade Fleece Toys Check the price Even mature goldendoodles will get a kick out of these food-related stuffed toys made from soft fleece. Choose from a range of sizes and styles, such as a slice of pizza, a doughnut or ice cream cone, or a roll of sushi. These handmade toys are crafted from high-quality fleece and dense fiber filling, and each one includes a squeaker. They are durable toys, but are not designed for power chewers. Nylabone Double-Bone Bacon Flavor Check on chewy If you need a durable, long-lasting chew toy, consider a Nylabone product like these bacon-flavored dog bones. Whether you have a teething puppy or a destructive chewer in the family, these 4-packs should last quite a while! Each toy provides several textures and can stand up to some serious chewing. Made from high-quality fleece, each toy includes beautiful if humorous detailing and has a squeaker inside. Petstages Dogwood Chew Check on chewy While many doodles enjoy chewing on wood, tree branches and sticks are definitely not the safest toys, so take a look at this dogwood chew from Petstages. Made from both natural and synthetic materials, these chews look just like a branch and have the same woody flavor of a good stick. Durable and long-lasting, they are soft enough to prevent broken teeth but still allow for some serious chewing action. Puzzle and Activity Toys for Goldendoodles While Goldendoodles are a high-energy mixed breed, these intelligent dogs need more than just physical exercise to be content; they also need to be tired out mentally. These toys take a bit of training at first, but most doodles have the game down in no time. Outward Hound Interactive Hide-A-Squirrel Toy Check on chewy If your Goldendoodle likes to unstuff things, then a soft hollow tree filled with squirrels could be the ultimate introduction to puzzle toys. This extra-large plush toy is a tree stump that stands almost a foot tall, and it comes with 6 small squeaker squirrel toys. You stash the stuffed squirrels inside the stump and let your dog search for and pull them out. Most dogs seem amazed at how many squirrels you can squish inside this toy, and if your dog gets a bit destructive you can even buy replacement squirrels. Sudoku Dog Puzzle Toy Check the price Many activity toys use food rewards for motivation, and this wooden sudoku puzzle is a great example. Put your Goldendoodle to work and teach them how to slide the wooden panels to uncover the kibble hidden underneath! The professional version of the puzzle game includes 9 panels, while the basic has 4 and the advanced 6. You can hide food under them all or make the game harder by only placing food in a few slots. Hide kibble under the plastic bone-shaped boxes and let your pup figure out how to access the treats! Rope and Tug Toys Toys made from rope or braided fabric allow you to play with your dog while keeping your hands clear of their teeth, and make it fun for several dogs to play together. These toys are not just for tug-of-war, either, but are great options for fetch games, keep-away and many others. This sturdy cotton rope tugger is 3-feet long and has 5 big knots, which makes it the ideal size for standard goldendoodles and other medium to large dogs. Hartz Dura-Play Tug Dumbbell Check the price If your goldendoodle enjoys a good game of tug but also loves to chew on ropes, then this hybrid toy from Hartz might be a good option to keep on hand. At inches in length, doodles of all ages and sizes should get a kick out of this tug toy. Kong Tugga Wubba Check the price Another product ideal for a mouthy goldendoodle puppy is this Tugga Wubba from the well-known dog toy company Kong. Instead of a classic cotton rope, this toy is made from strips of nylon fabric and has a center section made from braided rubber. Your pup can use it to play tug and fetch, or enjoy their quiet time with some licking and chewing. Dog Toys Without Stuffing Say what you will about goldendoodles, but many of them pick up the mouthy trait from their golden retriever side and love nothing more than unstuffing their stuffed toys. If your doodle is like my boy, save yourself the mess and resulting clean-up and add some stuffing-free soft toys to their collection! These comic dog, pig and bunny-shaped toys are made from tough polyester twill fabric and have a reinforced trim to reduce chewing damage. The center of each toy is filled with a durable squeaker and crackling fabric material, but the paws and extra-large ears are stuffing free and stand up to a lot of wear! The squeaky fox, raccoon and squirrel are long and skinny and the perfect size for a light game of tug, fetch or just for your puppy to carry around. The flat, unstuffed unicorn can be picked up by its prominent horn or fuzzy tail, or even carried by its reinforced edges. These Ultra Balls are lightweight, floatable, and have a textured surface and rubber core that stands up to a hard mouth. These balls are extra-bouncy and work with the original Chuckit launcher, too! Made in either a natural or cherry finish, the sling fits comfortably in your hand and sends the soft balls of felt flying through your home. It can be challenging to exercise your Goldendoodle in the winter when the sun sets so early unless you have this LED ball from GlowStreak. This durable spinner is basically a fabric frisbee but is much better designed for dog play. The bright blue and orange colors stand out against the grass and vegetation, and the fabric even glows in the dark for nighttime play! I love treat-dispensing toys, but they can be a challenge to use safely if you have a food-motivated power chewer. It has two-way audio in addition to the camera, so you can talk to your dog and call them over to catch a treat. Teach your dog to take selfies, watch them while they nap, and even get alerts if other people or pets walk across the room, the Furbo really seems to do it all! The adjustable holes make it easy or hard for the kibble to fall, and your Goldendoodle has to move the toy around to get all the food out. This style is ideal for keeping a mouthy chewer focused and out of trouble! Stuff dog biscuits down the bigger top hole in this hollow silicone toy, and your pup will have to work hard to get them out. Toys provide your dog with comfort and security, allow them to safely chew, lick and explore orally, and help channel their excess energy in a positive way. Plus, toys are a fun way to interact and bond with your bouncing teddy-bear of a dog! Part of the challenge in choosing toys for mixed breeds like goldendoodles and labradoodles is that they enjoy many types of activities and games. Like a kid with attention deficit disorder, goldendoodles tend to fly from one activity to another instead of focusing on a single game or toy, and get a kick out of things like: Fetch and retrieve games. We only recommend products we have tried and are using for our own dogs! Goldendoodles are highly intelligent and active dogs. In my work as a dog trainer I see a lot of bored Goldendoodles that go on to be destructive or even develop behavioral problems. Having the right toys for them to challenge their mind and give them a task is key! I recommend the toys in this article to all my clients with high-energy Doodle breeds. Let me show you my favorite toys for Goldendoodle puppies and adults! You fill it with kibble or small treats and you dog has to roll it around to get those treats out. The ball has different inserts that you can add to gradually increase the difficulty of the task. The better your Doodle gets, the more challenging you can make it! For especially high energy Goldendoodles you can feed every meal out of this ball. It will keep your dog entertained and challenged. When he is done playing, he will be tired and ready for a nap. I use this for my own dogs every day - they love it, and so will yours. Check the current price here! The cool thing about this toy is that it is a ball and a treat dispenser in one. We all know how much our Goldendoodles love to play with balls — and love to eat! As a professional dog trainer, I can guarantee you that more than half of all behavioral issues stem from dogs being bored and not mentally stimulated enough. If you are ready to stock up on more toys, we got a selection below for any kind of Goldendoodle. Whenever you get a toy for your pup, make sure that he cannot choke on or swallow parts of it and supervise him while playing. Goldendoodles can be strong chewers and might crack or break toys if left unsupervised with them. Who are we kidding.This 2-in-1 toy is prepared for your dog's attempts at ripping it apart and actually contains a second toy inside! It is soft, it squeaks and it can be torn apart - what else does a Goldendoodle want. I have this one for my own dogs and they love it. Consuela the Cactus is the toy that all dogs want to play with at the same time, so if you have more than one Doodle, maybe get two of these! The unusual shapes makes this egg's movement completely unpredictable. Your dog will think it's moving one way but it will roll to the other, continually surprising and entertaining him. Many puppies are worn out by just minutes of wild play with this toy, a godsend for energetic Doodle pups! The hard plastic makes this a great toy to leave outside in the yard. Your pup might get too wound up playing with it inside, so make this an outdoor toy. Brain puzzles like these show that dogs can in fact learn to pull, pull, twist or move objects to get to the treats hidden inside - and grow their intelligence every day while doing so. Simply put your dog's food or favorite treat inside this puzzle and watch those brain cells go! This is a great game for dogs that are easily bored with simple toys. If your Doodle needs more calm in his life, this snuffle mat is a great option to make him sniff and relax. Already a few minutes of sniffing lower your dog's heart rate by 10 BPM. Sniffing is the canine equivalent of meditation or deep breathing for humans. Take your dog's kibble or treat and spread them in the snuffle mat for him to find. You can feed your dog's entire meals out of these mats. This is especially helpful if your pup is wound up and had a hard time settling down, such as at night or after a wild game of fetch. Here are our top recommended toys with links to where to purchase them. Have a bit more time? Check out the full reviews below. Pick 1: BetterBone Tough. This eco-friendly and hypoallergenic chew bone is the perfect pick for pups that destroy their chew toys and bones after a few chewing sessions. A fab, fun and engaging chase toy that doubles as a great way of dispensing kibble dinners to prevent dogs from simply gobbling it down. Pick 3: Kong Classic Dog Toy. This plastic puzzle ball provides clever pups with hours of enjoyment as they chase it about the house or garden trying to figure out how to get at the treats inside. Pick 6: Chuckit! A classic for fetch, this durable rubber ball is nicely light and extremely bouncy making it perfectly suited for games in the park or down at the beach. So, for these dogs, mental stimulation is every bit as important as exercise. Not only does it stop them from getting bored and engaging in unwanted behaviors such as barking, digging, and chewing, it also can help to keep them from piling on the pounds. Most owners recommend having an assortment of toys about the house. Gone are the days of a dog bone and a teddy bear. These days dogs have nearly as many play choices as children do. To stop your Goldendoodle getting bored, you might look into getting some of these: Chew Toys Perfect for pups who are a fan of a good old chew and who usually zero in on the last thing in the house that you actually want them to chomp down on, naturally. Chew toys are a perfect distraction from your clothes, shoes, and furniture. BetterBone Tough from The Kind Pet From a health perspective, these toys are great for keeping teeth clean and debris-free. They also make useful tools for teething puppies — this generally begins somewhere in the vicinity of four months. A few products have even been specifically designed for this purpose. Puzzle Toys With their working dog ancestors, Goldendoodles benefit from toys that can help keep them happily engaged for long periods. This is where puzzle toys come into play. These self-amusement devices often dispense treats to keep dogs going for even longer than they otherwise might as they try to solve the puzzle to get at the reward. Of course, the downside of this is while they may be exercising, they will still be eating. To get around this, you might consider serving them up their meal-time kibble using one of these instead of additional snacks. Rope Toys Specially constructed rope, usually twisted and knotted at both ends, is great as both an active and distraction toy. It gives chewing pups the chance to work their jaws on something a little softer and with a bit more give than bone. A word of caution, though, on this type of toy. If you do choose to buy one for your dog, take care that it is carefully constructed for dogs and inspect it frequently for wear and tear. Thin strands of rope can be extremely harmful if swallowed. Fetch toys Excellent for Doodles as they tend to have a ton of energy; fetch toys can really help your dog get the very best from their time spent outdoors. Moreover, they provide the perfect way for you to spend some quality time with your pooch and develop a close and loving bond with them. The most well-known of fetch toys is the ball, and these are great for most dogs. However, fetch toys now come in an array of shapes and sizes that make them travel further when thrown, easier for dogs to grip and run with, or perfect for playing games of tug with either their owner or their doggy friends. Plush toys Soft toys are great for helping your dog feel comforted when you are away from the house. They will quite often enjoy having these around while they sleep. How fit for purpose is it? How is it likely to keep your dog interested? Some pups can be incredibly picky with their toys, as they are with their food. They may perhaps just need a little time to figure it out, is all. Quality Goldendoodles can get a little rough with their toys, chewing on them and shaking them about — especially when they are on the young side. This is one of the reasons why only dog toys will do. Toys designed for children are not likely to be as durable. Pay close attention to manufacturer recommendations for how well it will hold up to teeth and claws, and never buy something just because it looks good. Cost Luckily many options keep the cost of dog toys reasonable. You can pick up some great items at relatively affordable prices. Just be careful about the quality of the product in question.
Final Thoughts So, your 5 month old German Shepherd puppy does not look like a cute round and fluffy cub. It is the time when it has entered its juvenile growth stage, and it will become an adolescent in a month. Its behavior has also changed a bit. The pup is not that unruly delinquent it used to be a month ago. It becomes more obedient and shows its intelligence in training and exercising. However, it can still get into trouble, if left uncontrolled, with its immense energy making it bite, chew everything it sees, and jump at everybody it encounters. So, it may be a severe test for your patience before your pet enters the next stage of its life. Here is what you need to know about the main characteristics of your five month old German Shepherd, its temper, behavior, energy, and training needs. Size and Appearance If you are worried about whether your puppy is healthy enough and has reached the normal size and height for this age , check the appropriate measurements. Measuring and weighing your doggy regularly is a good option to ensure everything is OK with it. Your GS dog continues to gain weight quickly. The male puppy weighs about pounds kg , while females are a bit of lighter — pounds kg. If we speak about height, boys are taller at the shoulder — inches cm , while girls reach inches cm. Check how big its parents are. If they are smaller than average, your pet may take after them. They will recommend a specific diet to improve the situation and check whether this difference is not connected with a developmental disorder. Remember that if your puppy grows too fast, but its parents are not too big, it may also be a problem. Quick growth can cause damage to its bones. Your 5 month old German Shepherd experiences some other developmental stages in its teeth, ears, and fur. The teething period continues. You will see that for the next two or three months. The adult teeth replace the milk ones, so the doggy needs more calcium and other nutrients in its diet. The incisors have already grown in most puppies at this time. Now, you can expect premolars and canines. So, your puppy continues to bite and chew everything it can reach. You need chewing toys at this period badly. As for the ears, they usually stand straight up at this age. Anyway, you need to consult your veterinarian at this point. Droopy ears can be normal, too, so you should not interfere with the natural way in most cases. You may also need to add some supplements to the diet or change it completely to more raw meat and other natural ingredients. Using chewing toys is helpful not only for teething. You may damage the auracles, so be careful not to play too hard with your pet, and never pat it on the head during this period. Its adult double coat has already almost formed. So, your puppy can shed a lot and need more brushing and grooming. At this age, most GS puppies start their sexual maturing. Some boys can reach it up to 6 months of age. It means they will start looking for mates. It is full of energy and always ready to play a lot. Its playful nature can often get it into some trouble, so you need to watch out when your doggy is playing and running outside. Your pet will also try to test its boundaries right now, so you need to be very consistent with your pup at this juvenile stage — it should see an indisputable leader of the pack in you and all your actions towards it. Remain pretty firm with your commands, but never forget about treats. The young dog will chew and bite all the things around, destroying your shoes, socks, dresses, trousers, pieces of furniture, and other, even the most unexpected, household items. Tug-o-war and other energetic puppy games can help a lot. Work at teaching your pet not to bite. Bite inhibition should be provided regularly, strictly, and consistently. As for walking, your doggy needs a lot of it outside. It can walk up to 10 kilometers about 6 miles. However, never make your pet walk or run as far as that. Two walking sessions of minutes each per day is enough. Moreover, at this age, puppies can experience a strange adolescence problem — panosteitis. This health disorder is bone inflammation, so your pet starts limping when it gets up after a nap. If you do too much exercise with it, the results may be lameness, pain, or anorexia. This condition relieves by itself in most puppies in several days, while in others it may last for a few weeks. Health and Care Your 5 month old German Shepherd puppy is a healthy young adolescent, growing fast and feeling full of energy. By this age, it should have undergone 3 vaccination rounds, with the last vaccination session at weeks of age for DHPP and rabies. The next rounds will be needed at the age of 12 and 16 months. However, you should check with your veterinarian if all the due vaccines have been taken and administer them if something was skipped. If your puppy gets good nutrition and a lot of exercises, it will grow fast and healthy. Though, you may need to know if there may be certain health issues in the future. Do thorough research on the hereditary history if you want to be preventative. Running a DNA test can also help a lot, especially if you are worried about the possible appearance of degenerative myelopathy. So, look carefully for such things as: dry and itchy skin;. 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. 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!
Olena Lukash, 53, from Kyiv, said she 'didn't believe a war could start' in her home country until Russian shells began to land near her house since the invasion on Ukraine began on February .However, the year-old soon realised she would have to save her 'four-legged children' from the terrifying threat as she decided to flee her home and head for Poland. Photos show 20 of the dogs squeezed into the kennel owner's Hyundai Tucson for the four-day drive, with the pooches blissfully unaware of the terror they were escaping. Remarkably, after Olena and her husband Alexander left the dogs in Poland they then returned to their Russian-occupied town to rescue 30 more and then fled to Vinnitsa, miles away from Kyiv. The war launched by Russian President Vladimir Putin ground into its fourth week as his troops have failed to take Kyiv - a major objective in their hopes of forcing a settlement or dictating the country's future political alignments. Twenty French bulldogs have been pictured crammed in a car while their Ukrainian owner, Olena Lukash, 53, fled Russian bombs in her home outside of Kyiv - and even went back to the warzone to rescue 30 more 'defenceless animals' After Olena and her husband Alexander left the dogs in Poland they then returned to their Russian-occupied town to rescue 30 more and then fled to Vinnitsa, miles away from Kyiv Shelling was well underway in other Ukrainian cities on Friday - with Lviv, in the west of the country, the capital Kyiv, and Kharkiv, in the east, coming under fire. Next week, the year-old breeder from Kyiv will face the same gruelling drive back to Poland, but Olena admits money is running out fast. Olena, from Kyiv, Ukraine, said: 'My dogs are my children. My job is my dogs. These are all French Bulldogs - my favourite breed for 30 years now. The first week I thought that everything would end quickly, then shells began to fall near the house and I realised that I needed to save my four-legged children. The drive took me four days. There is a lot of traffic on the roads. I am ready to do a lot to save the lives of defenceless animals. I have strength and doing for this. I manage. Most importantly, we are all together and safe. Olena said: 'I am with dogs in Ukraine, the city of Vinnitsa, with my friend. We need funds for food, medicine for dogs and fuel for the car to continue on our way. I don't even have time to read everything. Individual people help financially, the rest sympathise. I need to do two or three more trips. The married animal lover claims she will continue to rescue other dogs as soon as she gets her to safety, even forming groups across neighbouring countries to ensure rescued dogs find a safe long-term home 'It is impossible to count on medicines and assistance because this all happened spontaneously. Gasoline is very expensive now. Olena said: 'First I have to provide a safe place for my dogs in Europe then I will help other dogs from Ukraine. Attacks on her home town near Kyiv have continued as the Russian troops continue to try to take hold of the Ukrainian capital. You can pay by bank card, money transfer, or cryptocurrency. Reprinting of information and photos of the site is prohibited! Manage Cookie Consent We use cookies. Not consenting, may adversely affect certain features and functions. Functional Functional Always active The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network. Preferences Preferences The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user. Statistics Statistics The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you. Marketing Marketing The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
Handler and dog must work together to have a successful outcome. The pinnacle accomplishment for any dog running in field trials is to earn a Field Champion FC title designation or an Amateur Field Champion AFC designation — or for some, it might be both. Your dog runs, finds them, and retrieves them as quickly as he can while responding to hand signals or whistles from you or your handler. Contestants are judged on various traits they are born with including a strong memory for marks, intelligence, perseverance, and more. Section 7. Master Hunting Test. Dogs shall be tested in a minimum of five hunting situations as follows: multiple land marks, multiple water marks, multiple marks on water and land, a land blind and a water blind at least one that shall be a double blind in any combination. There shall be at least three series. At least one of the series shall include a walk-up. The 3 falls must be presented before a dog is sent to retrieve any mark or blind. During a double set of marks 2 falls Master judges shall include additional elements of testing, i. Train ability must be evaluated more stringently than in Senior Hunting Tests. While distance is not crucial, Master Hunting situations are more severe and difficult than Senior Hunting situations. A dog that displays unwillingness must be scored relatively lower on Marking and Perseverance than in the Senior Hunting Test. A dog that goes to the area of the fall and finds the bird unaided shall be scored appreciably higher than a dog that must be handled to a bird. Master Hunting dogs must exhibit those qualities expected in a truly finished and experienced hunting companion. The five qualifying progeny must earn a combined total of 48 points. Two of the five required progeny MAY have a combination of a six point title and a five point title or two six point titles. Points are not cumulative within a category and only the highest achievement earned in each category is recognized. Additional points may be earned by qualifying progeny. All titles below the five point level will only count towards the OS if earned by already qualified progeny. Should the titles of the five qualifying progeny not total 48 points, then additional points including those titles worth less than five points may be counted for those dogs already recognized as qualifying progeny by the point value of other titles earned. GRCA will not track the accumulation of points, only titles. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Minnesota Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Minnesota? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Minnesota? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. We are a top golden retriever breeder in Minnesota offering golden retriever puppies for sale and golden doodle puppies for sale. Stay up to date with news on our current golden retrievers and golden doodle litters and puppies for sale. We keep this page current, so make sure to check back or contact us if you would like to reserve a puppy. Located near LeSueur Minnesota the farm has been in the Riebel family for over years. Through selective breeding they have developed their golden retriever bloodlines into wonderful family, hunting, and companion dogs. Read more about us and our farm. A Golden Retriever puppy will be very playful and pal around with you and your family for hours. This dog breed is known for its beautiful coat and feathered coat. Goldens come in many colors, cream and blonde are the most common while darker red colors are more of a rarity. At Island Farm Retrievers we have all 3 colors available. This dog breed is one of a kind and will remain a prefect family pet for many years to come. Read More on our Golden Retrievers Golden Doodles Goldendoodles are known to be one of the most popular breeds in the United States due to their many different color phases, very trainable and intelligent, and being hypoallergenic, making them a suitable dog for any family. New pup owners and past customers with their goldens! They will be ready to go to their new homes in early to mid December. We are taking deposits now towards these litters. If December is busy, let us begin the training process for you, then you can pick up shortly before or after Christmas. Each of us plays a part in the business, including blogging and web-updates, customer contact, cleaning kennels, feeding and training the dogs, and but of course! Our kids are now in their twenties. Hunting is our favorite autumn routine. Every time Dad and Joe get home from hunting, the rest of the family storm them with questions. You could say we train our dogs for stories. After a month or so of our obedience or hunting training your dog will learn many new skills. Each of our adult dogs is trained for hunting and is hunted over. A number of our dogs are descended from field champion dogs. It fun to see that the dogs look forward to hunting as much as we do. Each year on the first duck hunt of the season Tanner will literally tremble with excitement as he anticipates the first retrieve. We also offer our training services to help your dog develop outstanding obedience and hunting skills. Our training packages can take your dog from the basic obedience starting point up to the point of being field ready. Did you know? Why choose MN English Golden? We are professional breeders that focus on 1 excellent genetic health testings, exquisite temperaments, and highest quality pedigrees such as World Championship Moondust Masterpiece and three times winning Steadfast Angus. Our pups are breastfed until couple days before they go home at 8 weeks old. Classified as a working dog with purposes such as Service or Therapy work. We breed to better the breed. We focus on superior health of our puppies to give our families the perfect golden. For more information view health testings on OFA. English Cream Goldens are such an exquisite breed. They are intelligent, playful, honest, loyal, and loving companions. Once you have a golden, you will always want a golden. They will always be by your side, full of love, and will make your heart melt! Majority of our pups are sold before pups are born. We recommend reserving your puppy early so you can be one of the first picks of the litter. Once pups are born we will mark each puppy with a different color collar and have weekly pictures for you so you can enjoy watching your puppy grow! We love to have our families come to our home and have the joy in picking out their puppy. Each family will have their own time to meet and play with the puppies, parents and meet our family. We will answer all questions and help guide each family in choosing their perfect puppy. If a family can not come to our home to pick out their puppy, then we will have the family pick out their puppy online before we ship or deliver puppy to you. Visit FAQ page for more information on delivering or shipping a puppy to you. Puppies will be ready to join their forever loving homes at 8 weeks old. We do have options where your puppy can stay and go through our puppy training classes. Please visit FAQ and training program page for more information.
Sign up to our email list to stay informed of future expected litters. Brian and Karen Sterrenberg have been dog breeders in Iowa for over 25 years. If you are looking for goldendoodle puppies for sale in Iowa, you have most certainly come to the right place. Simply call to make an appointment to meet the Sterrenberg's and these puppies! The mother Dam is a red golden retriever. She is about 55 lbs. Together they have made the most perfect F1 Standard Goldendoodle Puppies. Brian and Karen also breed Mini goldendoodles as well. The F1 miniature hybrid usually matures to around thirty pounds. The F1b minis will be Pounds and a bit curlier. All of the Miniature and standard goldendoodles will range from a golden color to a dark red. Purebredpups is a short drive for buyers located in Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, and Iowa. Most of the mix breed puppies can be shipped if necessary. All of the mixes must be at least eight weeks old to fly. The puppies fly out of the MSP airport in Minnesota. Most flights will be direct. All of the doodle puppies come with a one year money back guarantee on health and genetics and will come up to date on all vaccines and wormings up to 12 weeks. When you buy a puppy from the top breeders in Iowa, you can expect help after the sale. Brian and Karen are full time 7 days a week at your service. You can call or e-mail brian purebredpups. The Sterrenberg family would like to thank you and invite you to come see what makes them Iowa's Top Goldendoodle Breeder! Call to schedule an appointment! Our adorable and playful puppies are bred with love and care to ensure their health and happiness. At our Texas-based breeding facility, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality Goldendoodles at affordable prices. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to bring home a loving and loyal companion without having to spend a fortune. Our Goldendoodles are raised with love and attention and come with up-to-date vaccinations, ensuring that they are healthy and ready to join your family. These lovable pups are a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, making them the perfect combination of friendly and intelligent. These adorable pups are a crossbreed of Golden Retrievers and Poodles, making them loving, smart, and hypoallergenic. Browse our selection today! Exotic Mini Goldendoodle Puppies for Sale in Texas Endless Variety Pick your perfect color, pick your perfect size, pick your perfect puppy—PuppiesGoldendoodles offer more variety than you can shake a stick at. Fur all over the carpet? Fantastically Friendly Puppies Goldendoodles Texas are famous for their personalities. This patient, friendly dogs make the perfect pal for all of your little adventures.
For the complete list please see our Resource Page page. Because the boxer is so popular, the price for one will vary depending on where you are looking. For example, if you live near Detroit or Lansing, you should be able to find a boxer puppy around the middle of that price range. If you want one from a reputable breeder, however, it could cost significantly more. Prices may also vary because of the age of the boxer. Puppies are cheaper than older dogs, so you will want to shop around and compare prices before committing to a purchase. If you would like to adopt a boxer instead of buying one from a breeder, check out some local shelters or organizations that place rescue animals in homes. How to Find A Responsible Boxer Breeder in Michigan When choosing a boxer breeder, you will want to be sure that they are reputable and that your puppy is being cared for properly. If they have one, this should give you an idea of how much work goes into breeding boxers responsibly which can give you confidence in your choice of breeder. Although anyone can call themselves a dog breeder, it takes dedicated breeders with years of experience to truly take care of their dogs. The Michigan Boxer Club has approved member breeders who put health above all else when breeding their dogs. You should contact them if you are looking for someone who breeds responsibly and cares about the health and happiness of their dogs. In addition to checking out the parent club, you can find a list of member breeders in Michigan on our site below. Visit Your Michigan Boxer Breeder in Person Once you have found a few reputable members, take the time to visit them in person. This will give you an opportunity to see what kind of environment your puppy is coming from and should provide some peace of mind that he or she has been properly cared for. Not only does this give you a chance to interact with the puppies, but it also helps you get comfortable with the parent club members and gives them a chance to meet you as well. Taking these first steps can help build a relationship between all parties involved which will hopefully lead to successful future transactions. Now that you know how important it is to find a responsible breeder, where do you begin? ReadPlease is dedicated to making your search easier by helping connect potential breeders and responsible dog owners. Take a look at our list of approved boxer breeders in Michigan below to get started on your search today. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your Boxer Breeder in Michigan When meeting your Michigan boxer breeder for the first time, you should be sure to ask them if they have any references for you. They should realize that you will want some sort of contact information, this is important information to gather before deciding on a breeder. Once you have some references, contact them to get their honest opinion about working with one another and how it went overall. The more references you talk to, the better your chances are going to be satisfied with your choice in breeder. If you are satisfied with all of your references, then it is time to put in an application for that adorable puppy. You want to make sure that you are getting a healthy dog with no genetic problems. Not only will meeting past customers give you peace of mind, but it can also help build a lasting relationship between all parties involved which in turn helps their next potential sale. Just like normal references, ask if they have any other people who have purchased from them within the last year or two that you can talk to about their experience with the breeder. This gives you a chance to really get into detail about how everything went and start building a rapport with these future friends of yours who just happen to own adorable boxers Does Your Michigan Boxer Breeder Have A Good Veterinarian They Use? There is nothing worse than having a sick puppy and not knowing what to do about it. This is why it is important to find out if your breeder has a good veterinarian they use and trust before you purchase your boxer from them. Not only does this help build a relationship between everyone, but it can provide you with someone who will be there for you when problems arise with your dog. The veterinarian can also offer advice on how to care for your boxer as well as give you the chance to ask any questions that come up about their health or behavior. Look out for The Signs of An Unethical Boxer Dog Breeder in Michigan When looking for a boxer breeder in Michigan, it is important to note the signs of an unethical breeder before visiting them. You should be wary if they refuse to show any paperwork for your future puppy such as the AKC papers, pedigree information, vaccine records, etc. Another big sign would be if they ask for money upfront before giving you any information on the potential parents, puppies themselves. Just like with anything else, you want to be wary of any contracts that are too long or confusing. Having these questions ready can help you quickly screen the different Michigan boxer dog breeders. As with any other dog, problems could arise at any time because of the genetic makeup of their parents. Things such as hip dysplasia or heart disease can be passed down from one generation to the next which is why it is important to ask your breeder about these potential genetic problems in your future puppy. This will help you avoid expensive vet bills until you know more information on what exactly is wrong with your new pup. How to Prepare Your Home for Your Boxer Puppy Before bringing your new boxer puppy home, you will need to make sure that their designated area is ready for them. This includes having dog crates that are large enough for them to grow into as well as newspapers or pads on the floor where they can use the bathroom. Making certain areas of your home puppy-proof is very important. Make sure there are no chemicals, cleaning products, or small objects available for them to swallow or play with. They could cause serious injury to your dog which is why it is so crucial for their safety. Finally, make sure to keep a close eye on them until you know they are comfortable in their new home. There are a few things that you can do to help with this process though, including crate training which is seen more often in puppies. Potty training your new boxer puppy is a big job, but with the proper guidance and patience, you can teach them to go to the bathroom outside just like any other dog. Good luck finding your next loving companion! I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Welcome to the Michigan state page on TrustedPuppies. Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, Michigan is renowned for its stunning lakeshores, vibrant cities, and variety of dog-friendly activities. Our goal is to connect you with the most exceptional Boxer breeders and puppies for sale in the region, ensuring you find the ideal companion for your family. Our site features a wide variety of reputable Michigan breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our MI breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. Discover the dynamic dog-friendly scene in Michigan, featuring inviting restaurants, spacious dog parks, and engaging dog shows. For those passionate about dog shows, events like the West Michigan Harvest Cluster Dog Show provide an opportunity to appreciate the elegance and charm of Boxer canines while connecting with fellow enthusiasts. Michigan claims the 7th position in U. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable Boxer breeders provide safe and affordable flight delivery, complete with a dedicated flight nanny who accompanies your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring their safety and comfort as they travel to their new home in Michigan. Many breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery, utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option allows your Boxer puppy to be transported directly to your door by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet transportation. Begin your search for the perfect Boxer puppy on TrustedPuppies.
Since a mix can take on any combination of traits from their parents, you want to make sure you ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix. Should an English Bulldog Mix take after their Bulldog parent, they will be sweet-natured, affectionate, and playful dogs that love being with their families. English Bulldogs are companion breeds that are known for being sweethearts. As long as they are socialized properly, they tend to be excellent with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although watchful, they are even agreeable to strangers once they have been introduced. If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you should be able to expect the same from an English Bulldog Mix. You still want to talk to the breeder about the other parent as they are likely to introduce their own quirks. Meeting the mother in person can give you an idea of her temperament and the behavior she is modeling for her puppies. Although the breeder should have started some training and socialization, it is your responsibility to continue training and socializing a puppy once you get them home to ensure they grow into a well-rounded, well-behaved dog. Although English Bulldogs adapt to most living situations, they are sensitive to hot and cold, and are particularly sensitive to heat. They also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. This makes them a moderately adaptable dog breed. The other parent breed could introduce some traits that affect adaptability so you do want to ask the breeder about them. A mix could inherit conditions common to neither of their parent breeds, one of them, or even both of them. From the English Bulldog, potential health concerns to be aware of in an English Bulldog Mix include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, Entropion, and Cherry Eye. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to prevent passing issues to puppies, so make sure you are asking about the health history of both of the parents. Although English Bulldogs can be stubborn, they are generally eager to please and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to be a good fit for owners of all experience levels and respond well to consistent training that is focused on positive reward and praise. If the other parent breed is also highly trainable, then you should be able to expect the same from an English Bulldog Mix. The other parent breed could also introduce the potential for an English Bulldog Mix that is more difficult to train. Mixed-breed dogs can inherit a coat that is a carbon copy of one of their parents or they can end up with a coat that is truly a mix of both. Should an English Bulldog Mix end up with a Bulldog coat, they will shed moderately year-round, require brushing a couple of times a week, and the occasional bath. If they have face wrinkles, you will need to make sure they are clean and dry regularly to prevent skin irritation. Cutting nails once or twice a month keeps them from growing too long. Ear checks on a weekly basis with careful ear cleanings as needed helps prevent ear infections. Daily brushing or use of an enzyme toothpaste is ideal dental care for dogs and can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. English Bulldogs tend to be lower-energy breeds that only require daily walks and some playtime to be happy. But, they will be energetic when they play and might be up for more activity if you are. The other parent breed can affect this. If they are a low-energy breed, then you can expect an English Bulldog Mix to be the same. If the other parent breed requires more daily activity, then you will need to be prepared for that potential range in an English Bulldog Mix puppy. Because they may still be a brachycephalic dog breed, they can overheat, so you want to be careful of overexertion. There are many safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs to help your English Bulldog Mix get the exercise they need. Fully-grown English Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother. An English Bulldog generally lives for years. Although the other parent breed could affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span in an English Bulldog Mix. Featured English Bulldog Mix Article. Cons: The English Bulldog is a breed that originated in England in the 16th century. It was originally bred for bull baiting, a popular form of entertainment in which a bull was tethered to a post, and a dog was released to attack it. English Bulldogs were known for their strength, courage, and tenacity, and they were prized for these qualities in the bull-baiting ring. It was originally bred for pit fighting, a blood sport that involved two dogs being placed in a pit to fight each other. American Pitbull Terriers were known for their athleticism, strength, and courage, and they were prized for these qualities in the pit fighting ring. However, when pit fighting was banned in the United States, the breed was used for other purposes, such as hunting, guarding, and as a companion animal. It needs to be clarified when the English Bulldog Pitbull Mix was first developed. Still, the breed was likely created in the 20th or 21st century due to the increasing popularity of hybrid species. The Bullpit is not a recognized breed by any major kennel club and is not eligible to participate in conformation shows or other AKC-sanctioned events. Generally, these are medium to large-sized dogs with a stocky build and a muscular appearance. They may have the short, wide head and facial wrinkles of an English Bulldog and the short, smooth coat of an American Pitbull Terrier. Their ears may be short and folded, or they may be long and floppy, depending on the traits inherited from their parents. Their tail may be short and stumpy or long and tapered, depending on the traits inherited from their parents. They may also inherit more physical characteristics from one parent breed than the other. English Bulldog Mixed Pitbulls can be any color, including black, white, brindle, fawn, red, and more. They may have a solid coat color or a combination of colors. Their coat may be short, smooth, and shiny, or they may be longer and coarser, depending on the traits inherited from their parents. They may also have a variety of markings, such as spots, patches, or a mask. Males are typically larger than females and may weigh up to 70 pounds when fully grown. Conversely, females are usually smaller and may weigh between 30 and 50 pounds when fully grown. It is important to note that the size of an English Bulldog Mixed Pit Bull can also be influenced by factors such as diet, exercise, and genetics. It is also important to remember that each dog is an individual and may have its unique size and weight. Overall, the appearance of an English Bulldog Pitbull Mix can vary greatly, and it is difficult to predict exactly what a Bullpit will look like based on its parent breeds. It is important to remember that each dog is an individual and may have unique physical characteristics. However, some general characteristics may be common in these dogs due to the traits of their parent breeds. English Bulldogs are generally known for being calm, gentle, and affectionate. They are often good with children and can make good family pets. However, they can also be stubborn and require extra patience during training. Pitbulls are generally known for being intelligent, energetic, and loyal. They can be strong-willed and may require firm training and leadership. However, they can also be very loving and make good companions. For example, some may be more laid-back and calm, while others may be more energetic and playful. By learning as much as you can about an English Bulldog Pitbull mix before bringing one home, you can help to ensure that you choose the right dog for your family and lifestyle. The temperament of an English Bulldog Pitbull Mix can vary greatly, as it will depend on the individual dog and the traits it has inherited from its parents. For example, both English Bulldogs and American Pit bull Terriers have a reputation for being loyal and protective of their families. These traits may also be present in an English Bulldog Pitbull Mix. However, it is important to remember that each dog is an individual and may have different personality traits and characteristics. Pitbull Mix English Bulldogs are intelligent and energetic dogs that can be good family pets with the right training and socialization. They may be playful and affectionate with their families and may be good with children if raised with them. However, it is important to remember that these dogs, like all breeds, can be strong-willed and may require firm, consistent training and leadership to ensure that they are well-behaved and well-adjusted. It is important to do thorough research before considering any breed of dog, including a Pitbull Mix English Bulldog, as a pet. It is also important to choose a reputable breeder and to socialize and train your dog properly to ensure that it grows into a well-behaved and well-adjusted family member. Proper socialization and training can help prevent behavioral issues and ensure that your dog is a happy, well-adjusted family member. There are a few things to consider when deciding whether or not to breed an English Bulldog with a Pitbull. First and foremost, it is important to remember that breeding any two animals carries risks and responsibilities and should not be undertaken lightly. Before breeding any two animals, it is important to consider the potential health and temperament issues that may arise in the resulting offspring. Both English Bulldogs and Pitbulls are prone to certain genetic health conditions, and breeding two dogs that are carriers of the same congenital disease could result in offspring that are affected by the disease. Therefore, it is important to thoroughly research the health history of both parent breeds and choose the breeding stock free from known genetic health issues. In addition to considering the potential health risks, it is also important to consider the temperament and suitability of both parent breeds as family pets. For example, both English Bulldogs and Pitbulls have a reputation for being loyal and protective of their families, but they can also be strong-willed. As a result, they may require firm, consistent training and leadership to ensure they are well-behaved and well-adjusted. Therefore, it is important to research both parent breeds thoroughly and to consider their individual temperament and suitability as pets before deciding to breed them. Finally, it is important to remember that breeding any two animals carries a significant financial and time commitment. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider whether or not you are prepared to take on the responsibility of breeding and raising a litter of puppies before deciding to mate two animals. Overall, it is important to carefully consider the potential risks and responsibilities involved in breeding any two animals, including an English Bulldog and a Pitbull. Choosing a reputable breeder and thoroughly researching the health and temperament of both parent breeds is also important before deciding to breed them. Pitbull English Bulldog Mix Health and Lifespan Pitbull English Bulldog mixes can be prone to certain health problems due to the inherited traits of their parent breeds. Some health issues that English Bulldog Mixed Pitbulls may be prone to include: Hip dysplasia: This is a condition in which the hip joint is malformed, leading to pain and difficulty moving. It can be treated with medication, physical therapy, or surgery. Elbow dysplasia: This is a similar condition that affects the elbow joint. It can also be treated with medication, physical therapy, or surgery. Breathing problems: Both English Bulldogs and Pitbulls can be prone to respiratory issues due to their short snouts and narrow nostrils. This can make it difficult for them to breathe, especially in hot or humid conditions. Allergies: English Bulldog Mixed Pitbulls may be prone to allergies, which can cause skin irritation, itching, and other symptoms. Eye problems: Both English Bulldogs and Pitbulls can be prone to eye problems such as cataracts, cherry eye, and dry eye. Skin problems: English Bulldog Mixed Pitbulls may be prone to skin problems such as allergies, infections, and hot spots. English Bulldog Mixed Pitbulls generally have a lifespan of around 10 to 12 years. By working with a veterinarian and taking good care of your dog, you can help to ensure that they live a long and healthy life. In general, all dogs need to eat a balanced and nutritious diet that meets their specific needs. Diet: Consult with your veterinarian or a professional pet nutritionist to determine the right type and amount of food for your English Bulldog Pitbull mix. Look for a brand that uses real meat or fish as the first ingredient, and avoid those that contain fillers or by-products. This can help prevent bloat, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can occur when a dog eats too much at once. Avoid giving your English Bulldog Pitbull mix table scraps or other unhealthy treats. These can contribute to weight gain and other health problems. Daily walks, runs, or play sessions can keep your dog healthy and happy. Be sure to give your Pitbull Mix English Bulldog plenty of opportunities to play and explore, as this can help to stimulate their mind and prevent boredom. Remember that these dogs may be prone to overheating, so avoiding exercising your dog in extreme heat or humidity is important. This includes obedience training and exposure to a variety of people, places, and situations. This helps ensure that your Pitbull Mix English Bulldog is well-behaved and able to adapt to different environments. Cleaning and Grooming English Bulldog Pitbull mixes will require regular grooming to maintain their coat and overall health. A slicker brush or a comb with wide teeth can be effective. Bath your dog every few months or as needed. Use a mild dog shampoo, and rinse thoroughly to prevent skin irritation. Use a cleaning solution that is specifically made for dogs, and be sure to dry the ears thoroughly after cleaning. Use toothpaste and a toothbrush that is specifically made for dogs. You can help keep your dog looking and feeling its best by providing regular care and attention. Here are some general tips for training an English Bulldog Pitbull Mix: Start training as soon as possible. Use positive reinforcement. This means rewarding your dog with treats, praise, or other rewards when they do something you want them to do. Avoid using punishment or physical force, as these can be harmful and ineffective. Be consistent. Use the same commands and rewards every time so your dog knows what to expect. Practice regularly. This will help to reinforce the behaviors you want your dog to learn. A trainer can provide guidance and support to help you and your English Bulldog Pitbull mix succeed. With time, patience, and consistency, you can help your dog learn the behaviors you want them to have. However, keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and prices can vary widely. For example, some breeders may charge more for English Bulldog Pitbull mixes from champion bloodlines or have certain desirable characteristics, while others may charge less. In addition to the initial purchase price, there are other costs to consider when buying an English Bulldog Pitbull mix puppy. This can help to ensure that they are healthy and to catch any potential health issues early on. Vet expenses may include the cost of the initial visit, vaccines, deworming, spaying or neutering, and other medical care. Training and socialization: Training and socializing your puppy is important for their overall health and well-being. This may involve hiring a professional trainer or enrolling in a training class. By budgeting for these costs and being a responsible pet owner, you can ensure that your pup has everything they need to thrive. However, there are some pros and cons to consider before getting any dog, and this is especially true for mixed breeds. Pros: Mixed breeds can sometimes have the best traits of both parent breeds. For example, English Bulldogs are known for being calm and gentle, while Pitbulls are known for being intelligent and energetic. An English Bulldog Pitbull mix could have a good balance of both traits. Mixed breeds may have a lower risk of inherited health problems. Purebred dogs can be prone to certain genetic conditions due to inbreeding, but mixed breeds may be less likely to develop these issues. Mixed breeds may be more adaptable to different living situations. Cons: It can take time to predict the exact traits that a mixed breed will have. Mixed breeds may be harder to find in shelters or rescue organizations. Many people looking to adopt a dog will search for specific purebreds, so that mixed breeds may be less common in these settings. Mixed breeds may be more prone to behavioral issues. Our website is all about Pitbulls. Mandy Connelly Mandy has lived with pitbulls her whole life, and she has amassed a wealth of experience and knowledge about these magnificent animals. Having had the pleasure of owning and caring for numerous pitbulls over the years, she has come to understand their unique characteristics, behaviors, and needs. Read more. Should an American Bulldog Mix take after their American Bulldog parent, they will be a large and lovable dog that is affectionate to their families. American Bulldogs tend to have a gentle nature, a sweet disposition, and a fun-loving, playful personality and you can expect something similar in an American Bulldog Mix. American Bulldogs are known for being absolute sweethearts and quintessential family dogs. They tend to love children and get along well with other dogs in the household. They also thrive on affection, bond strongly with their owners, and absolutely adore spending time with their families. Since they can be initially wary of strangers and can have a high prey drive, socialization early and often is important. You should be able to expect something similar in an American Bulldog Mix. Talking to the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix and meeting the mother dog can give you a better idea of what temperament to expect in an American Bulldog Mix. The American Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. The other parent breed may affect this for an American Bulldog Mix, but you still want to be prepared for a moderately adaptable dog in case they take after their American Bulldog parent. Apartment living could be an option, but you would need to dedicate a lot of time daily to making sure they get the attention and exercise they need to be happy. A mixed-breed dog can inherit the potential health conditions of one, both, or neither of the parent breeds. From the American Bulldog side, potential health conditions include eye-related issues, thyroid disorders, hip dysplasia, kidney issues, bone cancer, and elbow dysplasia. Knowing more about the other parent breed can give you a better idea of what to be aware of in an American Bulldog Mix. Reputable breeders will screen their stock to avoid passing issues to puppies, so make sure you ask about the genetic and health history of both of the parent breeds. Because they are highly intelligent and eager to please their owners, American Bulldogs are highly trainable dogs that are a good fit for owners of all experience levels. But, the other parent breed could affect the trainability of an American Bulldog Mix, so you still want to ask the breeder about them. An American Bulldog Mix can inherit a coat similar to one parent breed or one that is a blend of both. But, the other parent breed could affect how much grooming your American Bulldog Mix needs. Also, practicing good dental care for dogs can help prevent dental diseases like gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss later in life. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal. American Bulldogs are high-energy dogs that are athletic and strong. They need daily walks plus some playtime and extra activity. The other parent breed could affect how much exercise your American Bulldog Mix needs to be happy and healthy, but you will still want to be prepared to handle a high-energy dog. Fully-grown American Bulldogs tend to stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed could have a big effect on the size of your American Bulldog Mix. By talking to the breeder about the other parent breed and meeting the mother dog, you can get a better idea of what size to expect as your American Bulldog Mix puppy grows. American Bulldogs tend to live for years. Although the other parent breed could affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span in an American Bulldog Mix. Featured American Bulldog Mix Article.
We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. It is, therefore, no surprise that some breeders are starting to mix the two. Considering whether a German Shepherd Lab Mix is right for you? Read on for everything you need to know about this amazing mixed-breed dog. Lab German Shepherd Mix Overview Size — 22 to 25 inches tall and 50 to 80 pounds Coat — Medium length, double coat, color varies Shedding — Yes Temperament — Intelligent, active, and loyal, but can be wary of strangers Trainable — Highly, but prone to destructive behavior when bored Activity — Highly active needs two hours of activity per day Best For — Families and people with active lifestyles and lots of time to spend with them What is a German Shepherd Lab Mix? As these dogs are roughly the same size, the mother can be of either breed as long as she is larger than the father, to ensure against any difficulty in the birthing process. Sheprador Appearance As is the case for most mix-breed dogs, it is a bit of a gamble what you will get when these two come together. They might have the pointed ears of a German Shepherd or the floppy ears of a Labrador. There is nothing to do but wait and see. But luckily, both German Shepherds and Labradors are attractive dogs, so however they turn out they should be handsome. That said, we can make a few generalizations about the appearance of Shepradors. Size As both German Shepherds and Labradors are medium- to large-sized dogs, you can expect their mixed offspring to be the same. German Shepherds are the larger of the two and are usually between 50 and 90 pounds and 22 to 26 inches tall. Labradors are only a little bit smaller, at 50 to 80 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. So expect your German Shepherd Lab Mix to stand between 22 and 25 inches tall and weigh 50 to 80 pounds. You can narrow this range down a bit by looking at the size of the parents. Color The color of these gorgeous mixed-breed dogs is also highly variable, and you might end up with a pooch of a solid coat color, like Labs, or striking mixed coloring, like German Shepherds. A lot of this depends on the color of the Labrador parent, whether they are yellow, black, or chocolate. As a general rule, the darker the lab parent, the darker the coat of the pup. But you also get white German Shepherd Dogs, which can result in striking white Shepradors. Coat When it comes to coat length, you should expect in most cases that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will have a shorter coat, like that of a Labrador. This seems to be a dominant gene, and the vast majority of German Shepherd Lab Mixes end up with this type of coat. The dog will certainly have a double coat, as this is a feature of both breeds. The undercoat will be soft and fluffy, and the guard coat rough. This does mean that they shed—a lot. This is not the type of dog to have at home if anyone in the household suffers from allergies. Shepherd Lab Mix Puppy Lab German Shepherd Mix Character While temperament is again unpredictable with mix-breeds, both German Shepherds and Labradors are intelligent, active, and loyal dogs, so you can expect their offspring to share these traits. German Shepherds are very intelligent and have a natural protective instinct. They have a tendency to guard whatever they consider to be theirs. Labradors were originally bred as gun dogs, to retrieve the wild game of hunters. As such, they are very obedient and tend to be pleasers, and they like nothing more than spending time with their humans. As both breeds are intelligent and highly trainable, you can expect these characteristics to appear in a Sheprador. However, whether they will be a guard dog that can be aggressive with strangers, or a pleaser that is great with children, you will have to wait and see. While dogs are a mix of nature and nurture, if you want to take a Lab German Shepherd mix into a family home, or if you are a first-time dog owner, you will want to be careful about which individual dog you choose. Activity Levels However their personality turns out, you are going to have a dog with a lot of energy. These larger dogs that are used to working need around two hours of exercise each day. Their intelligence also means they get bored easily, and when they do get bored, they can have a tendency toward destructive behavior, which means digging and chewing. They do best with active owners with whom they can go walking, hiking, and running. Whether these dogs will like swimming is a coin toss. While Labradors love the water, German Shepherds are a bit more wary. But their size and adventurous nature mean they can be trained to love the water. So you have a good chance that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will be a swimmer. These dogs are loyal and love being around their humans. You will find them at their happiest and healthiest when you make them part of the family and shower them with love. Exercise Ideally, your Sheprador will need around two hours of exercise per day. This might be more than just a long walk, as their high energy levels mean they will like to run as well. They will enjoy tackling tough trails with you at their side, and the retriever nature of Labradors also means this breed is likely to enjoy a good game of fetch. Bear in mind that these dogs will need this level of exercise rain or shine, or they will become frustrated and start engaging in destructive behavior. This is not only bad for them in general, but can put excess pressure on their hips, which are also prone to issues. Intellectual Stimulation German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs are invariably highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train but also means they get bored very easily. When they do get bored, they are smart enough to find trouble, and you may come home to quite the scene. These dogs need to spend time with people to occupy their minds, and they also benefit from intellectually stimulating games. But expect them to make short work of these challenges, as they are chewers. You will be getting them new games quite often. Companionship Labradors need a lot of companionship, and this is a trait their offspring with German Shepherds are likely to share. Not only will they get bored and start acting up, but they can become depressed. Grooming Both German Shepherds and Labradors are shedders, so you can be sure their Sheprador offspring will be as well. This is just a fact of life with Shepradors. They will need to be brushed at least twice a week, and as often as once a day during the shedding seasons fall and spring. As well as brushing, invest in a good quality vacuum cleaner that has special functionality to help you pick up dog hair. These dogs are also likely to enjoy jumping up on the couch for a snuggle and a snooze. Invest in coverings and be sure your swanky vacuum cleaner has an attachment for upholstery. Their coat is not the only part of their grooming to attend to. You need to clean their teeth three times a week, with a brush or with dental treats. Finally, trim their nails every three months. This is both for their health and the health of your home, as their nails can damage your floors. For a big dog like this, it can be a good idea to take them to the vet to get their nails clipped. But if you feel confident to do this at home, check out our list of the best nail clippers. Diet German Shepherd Lab Mixes are big dogs that have lots of energy, but they also have a tendency toward obesity, which means they have to get their energy from good sources. This means high-quality protein and fats over carbohydrates. Preferably this means meals made from quality meats rather than meals or byproducts. When looking at the ingredient list, look for named meats at the first ingredient. Lab German Shepherd Mixes also benefit from novel proteins in their diet, as they can be prone to allergies. Dogs tend to develop allergies to the meats they eat the most, which often means beef and chicken. When they are puppies, Shepradors should be fed three times a day, and this should be cut down to two times a day from about four months of age. As a rule, dogs need 25 to 30 calories per pound of their weight per day, though you should watch their individual weight and energy level to see if you need to adjust their meals up or down. You can also check the label on your dog food to get a rough estimate of how much you should be feeding your Sheprador. Of course the amount will also vary depending on how often you exercise your dog. Known Health Problems While there is no limit to the number of health problems that a dog of any breed can develop, or they might not develop any at all, some dog breeds are more prone to some conditions than others. German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs have the potential to develop the health problems that are common in goth German Shepherds and Labradors. These include: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia — This is a condition where the hip and elbow joints do not develop normally and that can cause extreme pain and arthritis in later life. For more information check out our list of Glucosamine for Dogs. Progressive Retinal Atrophy — This is a group of degenerative diseases that affect the eyes and can lead to blindness. Shepradors are also prone to eat whatever is put in front of them, so you need to be conscious of what you are feeding them. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus — Poor diet can lead the stomach to dilate and expand, in turn leading to a twisting of the stomach that is life-threatening. It can block the flow of blood to the abdomen, leading to rupture of the stomach walls, and put pressure on the diaphragm thereby inhibiting the lungs. Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy — This is a condition that affects the spinal cord and leads to progressive weakness of the hind limbs, and eventually paralysis. Panosteitis — This is an inflammation of the outer surface of the long bones in the legs, resulting in a shifting lameness and making bones more susceptible to breaks. Allergies — Dogs can be born with allergies or develop them over time. Dogs often develop allergies if they eat the same foods consistently. Underactive Thyroid — The thyroid manages hormones, and an underactive thyroid is unable to secrete the required hormones. This can result in weight gain, lethargy, and cold intolerance. At this time, their energy levels will drop and they will need some changes in their diet and exercise. GSD Lab Mix Puppy But no matter how well trained they are, if they are left to get bored for too long, they can engage in some pretty destructive behavior, such as digging and chewing everything in sight. You have been forewarned. The highly assertive nature of German Shepherds means they do not respond well to domination training. They are likely to revolt when subjected to punishment. The best way to train a Labrador German Shepherd Mix is through positive reinforcement. Labradors are pleasers that love to make their humans happy. This means their offspring are also likely to feel the same way. So they will respond rapidly to training based on rewards for positive behavior. Deal with this behavior early, with specific training for dealing with children and strangers. They are very active and need lots of attention, so they need to be in households that support this. But they do great with adults and kids, so they can be a great family pet. Remember that German Shepherd Labrador Mixes need around two hours of exercise every day, so they need someone who can commit to that level of activity. But at the same time, it means they are the type of dog you can take on all of your adventures if you like hiking and trailing. They also need attention and stimulation throughout the day. If anyone in the house suffers with pet hair allergies, this is another reason Labrador German Shepherd Mixes are not the right dog for you, as they shed a lot. Consider something like a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle instead. Also, ask for medical records of the parents, to see what health conditions the pup might be prone to in the future. If you decide to adopt a mature dog, spend a bit of time with them to see what their temperament is like. History of the Breeds German Shepherd German Shepherds originated in Germany in the late 19th century as a sheep herding dog. But, because they are very intelligent, trainable, obedient, and strong, they have since moved into many different working roles including police, military, search and rescue, and disability assistance. German Shepherds can have a reputation for being aggressive, but they are more alert and wary than aggressive. They can have a tendency to become overprotective of family and territory. But if socialized and trained properly, this tendency should be highly manageable. German Shepherds are the second-most popular dog in the United States and the seventh-most popular dog in the United Kingdom. Labrador Labradors, also known as Labrador Retrievers, were initially used in Newfoundland as fishing dogs to retrieve fish that had gotten away. Because they are incredibly friendly but also intelligent and therefore easy to train, today Labradors are favored as disability assistance dogs, often helping individuals with blindness, ptsd, mobility issues and autism. Labradors are the most popular dog breed in the United States. They are intelligent and therefore easy to train, and loving and loyal, so they will quickly feel like part of the family. However, they do need a lot of exercise and attention, so adopting a Sheprador into your family is a commitment. German Shepherds have a reputation for being aggressive, but it is not really deserved. They are natural watchdogs and reserved around strangers, but they are not aggressive dogs that are likely to attack. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which means easy to control. Beagles, Poodles, Boxers, Golden Retrievers and Spaniels are all extremely friendly dogs as well, many specifically bred to be companions. They do best with active people or families who are full of people to love them. Like all dogs, they will do their best when they are cared for properly. This means training them appropriately, exercising them, keeping them mentally stimulated, and feeding them well. But these loyal pooches will repay your care and commitment with a lot of love and affection. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Characteristics Life Span As pointed out in the intro paragraph Shepradors generally live between 10 and 12 years, and sometimes they can reach the age of .However, they tend to be cautious with strangers, thanks to their German Shepherd ancestors. Caring Grooming: their shorthaired coat needs regular brushing: every day in the shedding season spring and autumn and three-to-five times a week in the rest of the year. Activity level With two highly energetic parent breeds, these dogs need an active life, so be ready to spend several hours a day keeping your pet busy. A Labrador Shepherd is generally 20 to 26 inches tall cm. Besides being active, you should have a large house, with a yard to provide her with enough space to move around. The Labrador Shepherd likes cold climates rather than hot weather, so be sure to have the ability to keep her comfortable all year. Further Reading Top 10 Dog Sports 2. They have it in their blood, and can successfully do police work, including searching, tracking, rescue, or guard work. If you care about your flowers and plants, you should also consider building an enclosure to keep your dog away from them. When you bring her inside, provide her with toys and games to keep her busy. She will enjoy any activity that stimulates her mind, such as dog puzzles or training sessions. The vacuum cleaner will be your new best friend German Shepherd Lab Mix is a double-coated breed, which means they have an undercoat next to the skin with longer hair over the top. Dogs from this crossbreed shed a lot, especially when the seasons change. If you want to keep her hair shiny and healthy, you should take time to brush her for at least minutes, three-to-five times a week. A consistent brushing schedule will help you reduce the amount of hair around the house. Besides brushing, you should include in your schedule: cleaning her ears once a week , brushing her teeth at least three times a week , and cleaning her eyes when needed. While this sounds like a lot, on the other hand, she only needs to take a bath about once a month. Exercising her on a concrete surface could help you keep her nails in good shape and reduce the number of visits to the vet. Always buy non-toxic toys, and substitute them with new ones as soon as they start deteriorating to avoid accidents. Your dog will need some strong toys, adapted to her age. Most hybrids tend to have a balanced personality, but as your puppy could be the result of more crosses , she may not inherit the exact characteristics you want in a dog; your future dog is prone to a series of health issues, caused by her bloodline. Obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases and diabetes are a lot more common with these dogs, but she could also develop epilepsy, skin allergies, bloat or cardiovascular diseases, these being common among Labradors and German Shepherds. From my point of view, most estimations work well for average dogs. You should buy your dog from a responsible breeder In most cases, a Labrador Shepherd has high potential and is a great candidate for the title of the perfect family dog. However, as mentioned before, hybrid dogs could have unpredictable coat colors, personalities, and health issues, so buying your puppy from a reliable source is as close as you can get to a clear image about your future dog. Generally, this hybrid can be 26 inches 66 cm tall and can weigh up to 88 pounds 40 kg. Taking into account the height and weight of its German Shepherd and Labrador mix parents, this crossbreed is a medium to a large-sized dog. So measurements can still vary more or less from that range. Good news for you! It will shower you with love and loyalty, and make you proud with its intelligence and playfulness. Do you think you can deal with this? Shepradors has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, but some of them can reach this age. We all want our pets to live longer and spend more years with us, so read this section to avoid and better prepare against genetic illnesses. Conclusion As you could see above, when buying a Sheprador you get the best of two great breeds. I think that this mix of German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever makes for the perfect family dog — kind, loyal, patient with children, and protective. However, they have endless energy and require a lot of time and attention, which makes them suitable for active families only. So are you ready to handle such a dog? Leave us a comment below and tell us about your personal experience with this unique crossbreed. 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. But I adopted my little Hank recently and he seems both very playful and very cuddly. He likes to snuggle a lot but is very active too. Just wondering if I should expect him to go crazy one of these days? Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic German Sheprador Highlights The German Sheprador is a mixed breed dog. The main colors of German Shepradors are black, white, red, cream, blue, and grey. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. While they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job. Many German Shepradors absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also help to keep them cool during hot summer months. German Shepradors make excellent family companions and watchdogs. Protective in nature, they will alert when strangers approach. They can easily become board, depressed, and frustrated, which will result in unwanted behaviors. German Sheprador History The German Sheprador dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing German Shepherds and Labradors in North America, possibly in the s. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to minimize health problems that affect many purebreds as well as create an ultimate family companion and watchdog. They continued to create German Shepradors as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though the German Sheprador got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the dog for you. Check your local shelters, look up German Sheprador rescues, or check with breed-specific German Shepherd and Labrador rescues, as they sometimes help to re-home mixed breeds. German Sheprador Size As the German Sheprador is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between German Shepherd and Labrador parents, you can expect the German Sheprador to be on the large side. Most weigh in at 60 to 95 pounds and range in height from 20 to 27 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. German Sheprador Personality German Shepradors make excellent family companions and watchdogs. However, once they befriend you, you have a friend for life. These pups hail from a line of two working parents. Their German Shepherd parents regularly work as military, police, and guard dogs, while their Labrador Retriever parents have jobs as hunting and guide dogs. German Shepradors like to work and need to have a job to do, whether big or small. Give them a sense of purpose, and this dog will earn their keep ten fold. They are highly trainable, and thrive on positive reenforcement. Do not leave them alone for long periods. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. German Shepradors are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one hour long walk per day with several shorter walks mixed in. Hiking and other adventurous activities are also recommended. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as this mixed breed is prone to tartar build-up. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility with its one-inch jumps. Crate and kennel training should start in puppyhood. German Sheprador Feeding An ideal German Sheprador diet should be formulated for a large breed with high energy. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. They usually have medium length, dense coats, and while they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job and bathing is recommended every few months with a mild shampoo. Too much bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Their double coats do shed quite a bit. You will definitely want a vacuum on hand. You will need it. Have you tried robot vacuums? See if the Eufy RoboVac is right for you! Their double coat gives them an edge when it comes to extreme weather. Many of these dogs absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also helps to keep them cool during hot summer months. Keep in mind they are an indoor dog and need to live indoors. Like all dogs, however, German Shepradors need to be trained how to behave around children and vice versa. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Learn more about this awesome breed by reading about their parent breeds the German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever. German Sheprador Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for German Shepradors because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or Labrador Retriever breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. For a dog to qualify as a German shepherd labrador mix, its parents must be a purebred Labrador and a purebred German shepherd. Parent Breeds This breed is a crossbreed between German shepherd and Labrador retriever parents. As these parent breeds are both large dogs with similar appearances, the resulting mix displays similar looks and personality traits. German Shepherd The German shepherd, or Alsatian, is a large, black-and-tan-colored dog hailing from Germany in the late s. This large breed is good with children and is best suited to active families. Labrador Retriever The Labrador retriever is a large British dog with cream, tan, or black coloring. This friendly, affectionate dog breed was developed from fishing dogs imported to the UK from Newfoundland in the s. Lifespan The German shepherd Labrador mix lives for 10—12 years. Healthy, active dogs that eat nutritious foods and live stress-free lifestyles are likely to live longer. German Shepherd Lab Mix Appearance German shepherd lab mixes are large dogs with medium-dense, short-to-medium-length fur. The dogs are usually black, brown, tan, or a combination of several colors. Height and Weight German shepherd lab mixes are considered large dogs, with a height at the withers of 20—27 inches, and a weight of 75—95 pounds. The size and weight of the dog depend on which parent the mix takes after most — German shepherds are taller and heavier than Labrador retrievers. Colors German shepherd lab mixes are typically black, brown, or tan. Patches of white are common on the neck and muzzle. Blue and red are uncommon colors for a labrashepherd. Occasionally, labrashepherds are all-black, all-brown, or all-cream, resembling the Labrador retriever. Coat The German shepherd lab mix has a medium-dense, double coat that sheds frequently. The outer layer of the coat is long and wiry, and the inner coat is short, thick, and soft. The coat comes in a variety of colors, and the undercoat is a lighter shade than the outer coat. Personality and Temperament German shepherd lab mixes have the combined temperament of the watchful German shepherd and the easygoing Labrador retriever. According to the American Kennel Club temperament guide , Labradors are eager to please, adaptable, outgoing, and intelligent. Meanwhile, German shepherds are fearless, confident, eager, and alert. German shepherds are known to be aloof with strangers, and Labradors suffer from separation anxiety. These two traits are often passed on to the German shepherd lab mix. The confident, loyal, eager nature of the labrashepherd makes it a loyal family pet. Barking The German shepherd lab mix has a low barking tendency. A properly-trained dog will only bark to alert its owners of a potential threat. Keeping a labrashepherd entertained with daily walks and playtime should prevent the dog from barking out of boredom. German Shepherd Lab Mix Care Caring for a German shepherd lab mix is easy as long as you have the budget and the energy to look after a big dog. Labrashepherds need daily long walks, a nutritious diet, and plenty of mental stimulation to live happy, healthy lives. Food Needs Provide your German shepherd lab mix with a high-protein diet suitable for large, high-energy dogs. On average, German shepherd lab mixes need about 3 cups of kibble per day. Use a slicker brush and brush in the direction of hair growth, applying fine strokes that remove dead hairs and mats. Exercise Needs The German shepherd lab mix is an energetic breed that needs at least one hour of daily exercise, divided into two or more walks. Ideally, give your labrashepherd access to your backyard throughout the day between walks to allow your dog to run around and let out energy. Mental Needs Provide at least 30 minutes of daily mental stimulation to keep your German shepherd lab mix happy and satisfied. The breed is intelligent and enjoys playing hide-and-seek, fetch games, and puzzle games with food release toys. Common Health Concerns German shepherd lab mixes inherit some of the common health issues affecting their parent breeds. Obesity Like Labrador retrievers, labrashepherds are prone to overeating and obesity. Lab results have found that Labradors are missing all or part of the POMC gene, which senses body fat storage and regulates appetite. Give this mix plenty of exercise to prevent weight gain. Skin Allergies German shepherd lab mixes are sensitive to mites, dust, pollen, and chemicals, which cause itchy skin and skin allergies. Redness, rashes, persistent itching, infections especially around the ears , and hair loss are all common signs of skin allergies in dogs. Treatment for skin allergies includes diet changes, avoiding triggers, and medication to reduce itching. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a common hereditary condition in large dog breeds, including the Labrador retriever and the German shepherd. The condition causes the hip ball and socket to deteriorate and lose function. This issue commonly affects overweight or under-exercised dogs. Symptoms of hip dysplasia in dogs include decreased range of motion in the back legs, decreased activity, lameness, and limping. The condition is treated with physical therapy, weight reduction, and surgery. Consistent training is important for this breed, so train your dog for at least 15 minutes every day. Start training your puppy from the age of eight weeks old. To prevent this, train your dog during or after a long walk. While the breed mix is affordable to buy, the expense of feeding a large dog is high. The upfront cost of a German shepherd lab mix depends on whether you buy from a reader or adopt the dog from a shelter. Factors that affect the cost of the dog are age, coloring, and whether the dog is adopted or bought from a breeder. Dogs with rare coat colors are more expensive than dogs with common colors. Additional, optional costs are dog sitting and boarding, professional dog grooming, and dog training classes. The German shepherd lab mix is an affectionate, loyal, energetic dog that makes a great family pet. However, this dog has traits that make it unsuitable for some people and lifestyles. Labrashepherds are high-energy dogs that are ideal for active, outdoorsy households. German shepherd lab mixes are responsive to training if proper boundaries are established, so this mix is best suited to people who have the time to train the dogs from an early age. Check out these other hybrid dog breeds: German Shepherd Mixes. German Shepherd Lab mix puppies German Shepherd Lab mix dogs are a combination of energetic friendliness and natural protection. As well trained adults they have the potential to make great herding, hunting, retrieving, therapy, service or pet dogs. German Shepherd Lab mixes are affectionate with their family, but need plenty of exercise, shed heavily, and can be destructive if left alone for long periods. That is, they have one parent of each pedigree. So there is huge variation in how they look, and no standard appearance. Some have the telltale muzzle and tall ears of the German Shepherd, others more resemble a Labrador. The color of their coat will depend on the coloring of their parents. For example, a black Lab German Shepherd mix is likely to have a dark coat, and a German Shepherd yellow Lab mix is likely to have a mid-toned coat. There are even arresting-looking white German Shepherd Lab crosses. An ultra-warm undercoat and a coarse outer coat to protect them from the elements as they work outdoors. This is because the gene for long coats is recessive and very unusual among Labs. Gathering up their lost hair will be a never-ending task! A good vacuum cleaner is essential. This might be reason enough to choose a different crossbreed if you have a busy family or someone with allergies in the home. German Shepherds are large dogs. They stand 22 — 26 inches tall at their shoulder blades, and weigh 49 — 88 pounds. Meanwhile, Labs are a medium sized breed, 22 — 25 inches tall at their shoulders, and 55 — 80 pounds on the scales. A Labrador German shepherd mix could be as petite as their smallest parent or as big as their largest parent. Your German Shepherd Lab mix could weigh anything from 55 pounds to 80 pounds. As usual, the lower end of the range is typically made up of female dogs, and the top end is dominated by the boys. They love to interact with people, show their affection, and get on well with children. Also, the German Shepherd is confident, courageous and smart. They are loyal and full of life. Furthermore, Labradors and German Shepherds are both fast learners and eager to please. German Shepherds in particular need productive ways to channel their intelligence, or they will get into mischief to stave off boredom. Your German Shepherd Lab mix could inherit any combination of the traits of their parents, which is why meeting both parents before committing to bringing home a puppy is so important. Socialization Socialization is the process of making a dog comfortable with other animals, people, places and activities. Even for breeds that are known to be friendly and easy-going, like Labradors, socialization is very important. German Shepherd Lab mixes are likely to inherit a love of people and company from both sides of their family tree. But socializing them properly as puppies will be vital to give them the confidence they need in meeting new people. German Shepherds, despite their great loyalty to their family, can be wary of strangers. So thorough socialization from puppyhood is essential, even for a mix. For instance, Socialization can involve having new people call over to the house regularly so your pup gets used to new faces and voices. It can also involve introducing your puppy to new dogs, cats, children and other animals so that they do not become fearful or territorial. A young dog in good health could require even more. They will also need human company for much of the day, and training to keep those big brains from getting bored. They are working dogs at heart. Highly motivated to learn and impress you with their ability to follow instructions. Like with any dog, training them is an ongoing commitment that lasts a lifetime. But with your ultra smart dog it should be a satisfying and rewarding one. German Shepherd and Labrador Health Magnification of health problems in pedigree dog breeds has become a well-documented problem. Labrador Health One of the biggest health problems facing Labradors today is hip and elbow dysplasia — looseness in the joints that eventually leads to painful arthritis. Another is progressive retinal atrophy, a gradual failure of the retina at the back of their eyes that can ultimately leave them blind. Also, Labs are also notoriously greedy, and prone to obesity if their penchant for snacking is indulged too often. Another less serious but common issue in Labs is ear infections. These are easily treated but may require veterinary care and frequent inspections. In addition, they are more than usually prone to: Gastrointestinal diseases.
labradoodle puppy training schedule - A little about us North Mountain Kennels is proud to offer quality German Shepherd puppies for sale, bred from some of the best sires and dams in the world. From meticulously bred service dogs to family pets, North Mountain Kennels has the perfect German Shepherd puppy for you. About Our Breeder Audrey is not just your average dog trainer. She is highly educated in all things K9. She has obtained 2 Masters Degrees from London Hanover University College of Zoological Studies with a concentration in canine behavior from a neurological perspective. This allows her to learn that what we "see" as the outward behavior and how it begins on a cellular level in brain. Truly understanding at an in-depth level of the animal that many "Trainers" do not understand or have any desire to understand what creates behavior and where it begins in the brain. Knowledge is power and with this knowledge Audrey Estep carefully crafts training plans developed for each puppy in training rather the a cookie cutter approach to all dogs. My services are designed with you and your pet in mind, and I believe in working as much with you as with your pet. Happy Healthy Bloodlines Great genetics make for a confident well rounded puppy that is suitable for companion, sport, IPO, or police K9. However, not all great quality breeding stock are titled European German Shepherd dogs. I'm selecting dogs with a history of producing consistent sound and healthy offspring. Not all dogs in my program have an OFA score on hips and elbows. My dogs generally have a European score on hips and elbows since they are tested prior to import. Furever Friends My puppy program revolves around creating the most sound animal for whatever your purpose is from birth. Puppies are exposed to a number of environmental obstacles, smells, sounds and sights to ensure confidence and sociability. Our Puppies All puppies are vaccinated, treated for internal and external parasites, micro chipped and come with AKC papers to register you puppy. What our customers have to say about North Mountain Kennels Don't just take our word for it, see what our customers have to say about us, our puppies, and the programs we offer! Proven Results. Questions about German Shepherd puppies for sale in Virginia? We have answers. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in Virginia cost? The cost of buying a German Shepherd puppy is going to depend on a few things. That includes the experience of the breeder, and the pedigree and coat color of the dog. So for example, you could pay different prices for Sable German Shepherd puppies for sale Virginia, black German Shepherd puppies for sale in Virginia, white German Shepherd puppies in Virginia, and so on. Can I pick a breeder outside my state? You certainly can. When you choose Uptown, you can pick a breeder in any part of the country. You can then choose to pick up your new German Shepherd puppy in person, or have your pooch flown to your nearest major airport. And no need to worry - German Shepherd Virginia puppies fly in the cabin, not stowed in the hold. How do you screen breeders before you add them to your network? Not a day goes by without us receiving applications from German Shepherd breeders in Virginia and companies from all over the country, all wanting to join our network. You can see all the details in our Breeder Pledge. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other places? Sadly though, many breeders are only concerned about money, not about the welfare of their puppies. What is a puppy mill exactly? Puppy mills breed dogs for one purpose - to make as much money as possible. Litter after litter are produced in squalid, dirty conditions, with no thought given to their care or welfare. As a result, German Shepherds for sale Virginia from a puppy mill are likely to be poorly socialized and suffer from underlying health conditions, potentially costing you thousands in extra vet bills. You might be looking for a specific gender, coat color, eye color, pedigree, or even for a German Shepherd hybrid breed. Whatever you want, the breeders and companies in our network will help you find your dream dog. You can then either choose to go pick up the pup in person, or ask the breeder to arrange for your dog to travel to an airport near you. How do I know I can really trust you? We want you to have a great, lasting relationship with your Virginia German Shepherd for sale, but we also want you to have the same kind of relationship with us. Do German Shepherds make good dogs for families? With the correct training and upbringing, German Shepherd puppies Virginia make loving and faithful family members, developing strong bonds with their favorite humans. What are the origins of the German Shepherd breed? German Shepherds for sale in Virginia originated in Germany at the very end of the 19th century, first bred to herd sheep. To create the best sheepdogs, the smartest, easiest to train dogs were picked - and those traits are still apparent in their modern descendants. .Since part of their original role was to guard sheep from wild beasts, it's hardly surprising that Virginia German Shepherds for sale also make excellent watchdogs.
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labradoodle puppy training schedule - 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. So, while this is not a reason not to get a GSD, it is a reason to look for adequate breeders, to ask for health certificates, to take good care of your dog, and to go to routine vet check-ups. German Shepherds can also be costly to take care of not just to purchase The regular vet visits, the high need for exercise, and the extra-space requirements all make the GSD a relatively expensive dog to take care of in terms of money as well. German Shepherds are very smart but that also makes them easily bored — they require lots of mental stimulation As with all smart dog breeds such as retrievers and other shepherds, the high intelligence of the GSD can be a curse as much as a blessing. So, what can be done to avoid boredom? Toys and time. However, an inexperienced dog owner can find a GSD to be more than a handful. Why is that? Simple — because they are so smart! Yes, their intelligence means that you can train them a lot but it also means they can be temperamental, manipulative, and stubborn! This breed is cute and cuddly at home but socially awkward in public German shepherds are incredibly cute, social, and loving animals. They are loyal to their family and would do anything for those close to them. What does this mean for you? Even if you just get a random GSD and not give it any special training or socialization, the dog may still get along just fine with a cat or a newborn baby. However, in general, the social awkwardness and guard-dog nature of GSDs means that they often need to be socialized well if you want to make other additions to the households down the line. Make sure that you teach your growing GSD to get along with other dog breeds in the dog park or at home. If you have a cat or are thinking of getting a cat, make sure your German Shepherd is accustomed to interacting with cats without any aggression. One of the best and easiest ways to avoid most of the problems above is to just get a second German Shepherd! Yes, we did just say that this breed can be a handful. However, a second dog usually brings much more benefits than negatives: The second dog will join the first in the playtime, meaning that both will exercise with each other very often and minimize the need for your involvement. Having a second GSD also means more mental stimulation for both dogs — again, less work for you and more fun for them. As natural guard dogs, German Shepherds may need to be trained not to bark Unfortunately, GSDs are especially bad for apartment owners not just because they are big but also because they tend to bark at strangers. They are guard dogs after all. This can be avoided, of course, there are ways to train any dog not to bark at strangers or at outside noises. There are several reasons for this: The frequent barking we mentioned above. Yes, you can train that behavior away but your landlord may still forbid you from getting a GSD. Getting a carpet or another type of floor insulation will help here. Giving your dog enough playtime outside will also alleviate this problem. But you may still get in trouble with your neighbors. They are just a large breed and many people, including parents of small children, are afraid of large dogs. Not only are GSDs not hypoallergenic, but they also tend to shed a lot! There are two main reasons for this: The aforementioned health concerns that some German Shepherds have and that get more and more likely as the dog gets older. The simple fact that the GSD is a large dog breed and larger breeds just have a shorter lifespan than smaller ones. As you can see, there are lots of factors to consider before getting a GSD. In general, the right GSD owner can be characterized as such: Has a larger-than-average home, a yard, and a nearby dog park. Has enough time to spend with a German Shepherd. Knows how to train and socialize a GSD properly. Has the financial means to support a German Shepherd. Wants a second dog to play with the first one. How to prepare for getting a German Shepherd? Just like soon-to-be-parents before their first baby, there are lots of books and research to comb through if you want to give your future German Shepherd the care, upbringing, socialization, and care it needs. So Make sure your home is ready for a large dog to soon start springing through it. Make sure you have the time and daily schedule to play with a GSD. Consider owning a Cairn Terrier! In this article, we explore who would benefit them as furry friends! Check them here! Read on to discover nine types of people who should consider owning this unique breed. Check this article to learn more about the types of people who are perfect for owning a Poodle dog! Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. 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. If a breeder tries to tell you that his puppies are healthy because their parents never had any issues — do not believe him! It is impossible to diagnose e. Where can you find cheap German Shepherd Dogs? The question is — do you want to purchase a dog with questionable health and temperament? These dogs often are not purebred German Shepherd puppies, but are mixed with e. Labradors, Pitbulls or Golden Retrievers. If you end up with a dog with genetically based health conditions however, be prepared to spend a multiple of the original purchase price on vet costs! Temperament and behavior While a lot of good manners can be taught through consistent training, temperament is genetic to a certain level. When you buy an extra cheap German Shepherd puppy, you not only get a dog with questionable health, but also with unpredictable temperament! Even aggression can be genetic and can be passed on from the mom and dad to the offspring. You can save yourself a lot of time, nerves and money spent on future behavioral training by getting a well-bred and more expensive dog. What is the most expensive type of German Shepherd? Like in many dog breeds, certain rare German Shepherd colors are much more expensive than the most common colors and patterns. It is much more important that your puppy has a sound temperament and fits in well with your family and lifestyle than that he has a certain rare look. These dogs are mutts German Shepherds mixed with Miniature Poodles, Shelties or other smaller breeds. Once more, be certain to not decide on your future dog based on looks alone. A stable temperament and good health is much more integral than a certain size or weight. Working lines vs show lines The German Shepherd was originally bred as a working dog. Since his original use as a shepherd dog however, he has filled many different roles — from guarding properties over being used in the show ring to participating in Schutzhund and IPO trails. Depending on which lines your German Shepherd Dog comes from, the prices can vary a lot! Show line German Shepherds are the dogs that are bred for conformation shows. These are the type of dogs you should decide on if you would like a shepherd puppy as a pet and companion animal. If you are interested in using your German Shepherd as a protection dog and to participate in IPO trials, you should pick one from working lines. There are a lot of highly successful working line breeders both in North America and Europe. For this price, you get an absolutely flawless dog with extensive skills and perfect obedience. Some US dog owners interested in Schutzhund choose to import a puppy from old European working lines. While this might sound insanely high for a pet dog owner, for Schutzhund enthusiasts it is a typical price for a pedigreed German Shepherd pup. How much does it cost a month to own a German Shepherd? This will cover the basics: high-quality food and regular vet checks. Some German Shepherd owners spend considerably more money. Professional grooming is necessary for many German Shepherd owners, as these dogs shed heavily. This breeds tends to exhibit several behavioral issues that can be difficult to fix for first-time dog owners, including: Separation anxiety.