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They focus on dogs who have the temperament and character of a friendly family dog. They spend their time seeking out the perfect adoption homes for these Goldens through their volunteer network, applications, social media, and events. They do this to ensure that whichever home the dog ends up in, the owners will be well educated in caring for this specific breed. This organization is amazing because they take many different steps to ensure that their dogs go to a great, loving home with a family that will take care of them. This rescue is amazing because they focus on dogs who are close to being euthanized or dogs that have the possibility of being less likely adopted. Address: P. This club is to give recognition to this amazing breed of dog. This rescue is trustworthy because they are a part of the Golden Retriever Club of America and therefore they are American Kennel Club registered. This club is a great organization for anyone who owns Golden Retrievers because they consistently host events and have many different projects to work on as a team. They also spend their time finding reputable breeders of Golden Retrievers so they can ensure that those looking for Goldens can get the puppies from a trusted source. People love this club because they have a ton of information on their Goldens, puppies, finding a breeder, and more. They host events and they have a community where people can get together to celebrate Golden Retrievers. This ensures that they are a trustworthy and educated club for Golden Retrievers. This club provides education and training for those who own a Golden Retriever or those who are looking to own a Golden Retriever in the future. People are loving this club in specific because they dedicate their time to Golden Retrievers and the education behind them. They even are looking into research to find answers to medical questions that have been a concern for Golden retriever breeds for years. They are consistently contributing to the community by building friendships, providing education, research, and training as well to all the owners and Goldens of central New York. This is the perfect Golden Retriever club because they even have veterinarians and professionals who give educational lectures about the breed. This club is great for those that are looking to get their Golden Retrievers involved in shows, field trials, and obedience trials. This club is also American Kennel Club certified so you know they are trustworthy and ethical. People love this club in particular because they stay busy with events, organizations, and fundraisers. They are accepting new members regularly and they ensure that anyone that joins their club is involved in their organization a lot by having a ton of events to attend. This club is a devised club where even non-members can attend their events, just without their furry friends. This is a great idea if you just want to scope out the club before actually joining and bringing your Golden Retriever. People love joining this club because they focus on a lot of different training and tricks. They involve their Golden Retrievers in competitions, assisted therapy, conformation, obedience, rally obedience, and tracking. This is a really great reason to choose this club because it gives your Golden Retriever a lot of different opportunities to be a part of. Not only that, but this club is also a part of a lot of events that bring their community together in order to celebrate Golden Retrievers. Anyone with a Golden Retriever can join this club in order to bring out the best qualities whether that be in obedience, training, agility, tracking, competitions, or field events. Not only is this a club for Golden Retrievers, but they also have rescue, puppy referral, and referenced clinics. They work with a lot of people to bring Golden retrievers the best care before adoption, after adoption, and as puppies. Golden Retriever owners love being a part of this club because they have a lot of educational opportunities and they teach the dogs a lot about their natural abilities. Final Thoughts Finding the perfect Golden Retriever rescue center or club can be tricky, especially with so many options around New York. We hope to have narrowed down the search a little bit for you by providing you with some of the best and most trustworthy rescues. Rescues that are ethical, registered, and overall show true compassion for their animals are the ones to go with. Not all rescues have the same agenda, so making sure that you go through one that does what they are supposed to do is important. These rescues are the perfect palace to start and a lot of them have a ton of information on their website about their organization. You should be able to find everything you need using the information in this article. We wish you all of the luck trying to find your perfect Golden Retriever for your family! Since , the volunteers of SGRR have rescued Golden Retrievers, Golden mixes, and Golden-hearted dogs who have been abandoned, abused, or relinquished by their owners. We are dedicated to finding the best possible homes for these dogs in need. September is National Preparedness Month! The peak of Atlantic hurricane season is here which is why it's important to take some time to reflect on disaster preparedness. As unlikely as it may seem, a disaster can strike at any moment. Whether it's a fire, tornado, hurricane, flood, or blizzard, it's critical to be prepared and have a plan in place. Unfortunately, pets are sometimes unintentionally left out of their owners' disaster preparedness plans which makes it difficult to know what to do with them during an emergency. Luckily, you can plan ahead for your pets using these tips: Listen to your veterinarian Make sure your pet wears a collar with up to date information on it, get them microchipped, and have them vaccinated. These recommendations will come in handy during a disaster and help you avoid any potential pitfalls, such as being unable to get into a shelter with an unvaccinated pet or losing them during an evacuation. If possible, take your pet's medical records with you and attach their rabies tag to their collar. Find out which shelters allow pets Do some research into where you can safely evacuate with your pet during a state of emergency before a disaster occurs. Your local police department can typically give you this information. If not, they'll likely be able to point you in the direction of someone who can. Though unfortunate, it is not true that hotels must accept pets during evacuations, so please keep that in mind while planning ahead. Prepare a pet disaster kit In a suitcase or other easily movable storage container, pack food and water bowls, a manual can opener, two weeks' worth of canned food and bottled water per pet, plastic poop bags for dogs , litter and a small litter box for cats , and two weeks' worth of any medications your pet may need. You should also pack cleaning items, sturdy leashes and harnesses, toys, and a copy of your pet's medical records. For small animals and cats, have a carrier ready. Use this checklist to prepare. Create handouts Create an identification handout and a boarding instruction handout. Have both ready to go at a moment's notice. They should contain important information, such as your pet's name, age, sex, markings, microchip number, allergies, and vaccination status. If you get separated from your pet, make sure you're safe before you begin your search. If you're in a shelter that houses pets, inform a caretaker and provide them with the identification handout. Once you've been given the OK to leave the shelter and return home, contact animal control and call the microchip company to make sure all information about you and your pet is current. Stay safe out there! Some dogs become comfort or therapy dogs, while others are champion security systems. Dudley's adopters, however, found he is quit the poet!! Kind of melts your heart, doesn't it? We hope you will be too! Looking for a good gift for yourself or someone else and make an impact at the same time? Go over and see our friends at Golden Retriever Coffee Company! Not only do they have amazing products, but they're big supporters of SGRR! Also, shipping is always free in the U. This all-natural craft bakery offers delicious treats for your furbabies such as pumpkin hearts, peanut and blueberry chews, turkey and sweet potato duckies and more pup-alicious flavors. Everything in the dog bakery is made with natural, healthful, nutritious ingredients, blueberries, duck, cheese, turkey, rolled oats, whole dried eggs, and more. Sunshine also will share a percentage of the bakery profits with other golden rescue organizations. Our Goldens and Golden-hearted dogs make wonderful pets. We want our applicants to also know that rescued dogs come from a variety of backgrounds. Some dogs are older dogs, including well-behaved and cared for pets whose owners have become ill or died. A patient and loving owner can make all the difference. The joys of seeing these dogs become the devoted and contented pets they were meant to be is remarkable. New to SGRR? Want to Learn More About Us? We at Sunshine Golden Retriever Rescue take the job of finding the best possible forever homes for our dogs very seriously. The adoption process is thorough so that we can learn as much as possible about those to whom we entrust our precious pups. Once a dog is placed with an approved adopter, they are welcomed into the SGRR family and given the tools and support to make the adoption successful. We have gathered comments from some of our adopters who are happy to tell you how they feel about us! You can read more comments on our Get to Know Us! To make a very long story short, she went on to become the saving grace of my life and a certified therapy dog who was with me for 13 years. After she crossed over that rainbow bridge, I did a lot of research with adoption agencies and came across SGRR. After filling out the application and being interviewed I was offered a dog by the name of Daisy, a beautiful red Golden Retriever. I thought I would never feel about another dog the way I felt about my Julie but it was not long before I fell in love with that sweet, sweet girl who was also with me for 13 years. Everyone loved Daisy, she would go up to people and do that lean into thing, a Golden thing, and they would just laugh and pet her. That is when I realized what an amazing organization, so full of caring and wonderful people who often go above and beyond for these wonderful animals. When my Daisy girl crossed over after a few months went by I thought it time to bring another friend home. Golden Retrievers had become hard to find so I decided to take a mixed breed home which was a big deal for me being the Golden Retriever lover that I am. I never had a male or a mixed breed before so I did not know what to expect. Finnie settled right in and is a wonderful companion and friend to furry sibling Gracie. Finnie took some training but I knew in time he would be a great dog and he is a great dog. He is very different than the other dogs in my life but he is so much fun to have with us. He loves people and gets very excited with everyone and will jump up in the air like an acrobat we are working on that , but a great dog. I would encourage everyone to think about a mixed breed. With time, love and patience you get a great dog and companion. We are excited and proud to share it with all of you. Click the button below and enjoy! The soft light and subtle fragrance will be a sweet reminder of the love you have shared. Please check out their website to learn more about J. Lilienne Custom Candles Pet Collection. SGRR is designated as a c 3 organization which means your donations are tax-deductible. You can make a donation to our general fund or designate your donation for a specific purpose such as a memorial or a tribute. Single Payment Use for a single donation or to pay an adoption fee. Recurring Donation Sponsor a Dog If you would like to provide for the care of a particular dog's needs, you may sponsor that dog. We will then note you as a sponsor on the dog's dedicated bio page. We thank you in advance for your generous support!
We started our life in Washington on a farm just outside the little town of Morton in the beautiful Cowlitz Valley. After living there for seventeen years, we decided that life had another adventure waiting for us. We listed our farm and off we moved to Eastern Washington to the beautiful town of Colville, which is about an hour's drive north of Spokane. Our farm is just 8 miles outside of Colville on acres of paradise. We absolutely love the drier climate of Eastern Washington and our property which is home to wild turkeys and deer. Our Bernedoodles are keen on the adventure of exploring our property and absolutely love the daily runs down our many trails. Our bernedoodle puppies are handled daily by us, with extra attention from our grandchildren and our neighbors who love having puppies living next door. When our puppies are 3 weeks old, they move out of their baby pens and start the transition to solid food and being litter box trained. We litter box train the bernedoodle puppies to hopefully make it easier for their families to house-train them when they take them home. Before we know it the puppies are 8 weeks old and ready for their new loving forever homes. Cowlitz Valley Bernedoodles. I added the doodles because of the hypoallergenic nature and intelligence of the poodle along with the amazing temperament and striking looks of the Bernese Mountain Dog. You are welcome to come visit our house and meet us or call at the number below with any questions. Three girls will be bred this fall. Below are past photos. The reunion on June 24 was fun but only 6 families could make it. Below are pictures from the and reunions. It was great to see those that could make it. At the conclusion of the photo, I asked the families if I could give pups a whistle that I used while they lived with me, and I hoped they would remember it.Several did and it made me very happy .Mickey and Kim owners of two of my bernedoodles from seperate litters captured this video center pic. Some pictures from Chewy's last litter are below. The "Nuts" litter by Bear Cub are shown below. The final picture is first followed by a few pictures as they grew. This cracked me up.There is a series of 3 photos that I put in a loop. Notice the basket getting further away from the wall then a puppy coming up the back bumps her off. Shown below in order of birth. View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Tri-Cities Washington and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups! My name is Crystal and with my husband as my right hand man and Savvy Meadows' contractor along with our three young daughters as our puppy socializers we make up our family owned and operated breeding program at Savvy Meadows. We relocated to Spangle, Washington in , just south of Spokane on 78 beautiful acres!! The first thing we did when we moved to WA was to build our dogs their own custom 1, square foot house on an acre of land. They have multiple rooms to choose from in each of the large play yards so they can choose when they go outside, inside or lay in the covered middle area. After 16 years of being guardians to these incredible furry-souls and helping them find their human counterparts, I am embarking on a new adventure and following the pull toward a new path of sharing light and energy on our incredible land with other humans instead of all of my energy directly focused on dogs. What this means is that a majority of dogs that have lovingly been in or were going to be parents in my breeding program are available and I am retiring out with a select small group of dogs in producing SavvyDoodles. I look forward to guiding your search for you and your family in finding your energetic match among these amazing souls in furry-dog bodies. I fell in love with Poodles because of their fun and loyal personalities, amazing intelligence, gentleness around children, being alert, and of course the lack of hair flying around the house! They truly do bring out the best of both breeds for you to enjoy in your home! I am extremely proud to have added a new and exciting hybrid.These pups boast the same low to non shedding hair as the Bernedoodle without the poodle curl, while maintaining a thick body frame with whit and smarts that are hard to beat! Of course with our fantastic Bernedoodles and Bernouviers that we have been breeding I couldn't resist combining our three parent breeds to produce our SavvyDoodles! Our SavvyDoodles still boast all of the fun loving variation of our Bernedoodles with our observant and intelligent Bernouviers making adjusting into their new homes, training and their social relationships an ease for new and experienced dog owners alike. Still low to non shedding while physically taking on the straighter hair from the Bouvier. I am so very excited to be a part of these hybrids and amazed with the temperament, personalities and loyal puppies that my dogs are producing! I couldn't be happier, or kept more on my toes : with all the positive additions we are bringing into our four legged family, to produce amazing pups for your family! While each day can bring challenges, it is the journey of finding the right homes for these incredible pups I fondly refer to as who I am Guardian of ,that keeps me driven.
Though size varies between individuals, a standard German Shepherd weighs about 60 pounds. Whether you already own a German Shepherd pup or are looking into it, be prepared for a hefty lap dog! Continue to 7 of 16 below. They were originally bred for their striking good looks and intelligence, making for a great working dog on the police force and in the military. They were so cute that dog-lovers in other countries soon caught on and began breeding them themselves. Continue to 8 of 16 below. These dogs are very protective of their homes and family and make excellent guard dogs. Continue to 9 of 16 below. They need stimulation, even if they are a family pet and not a trained deputy. This can be in the form of playful games, puzzle toys, tricks , and obedience training. Otherwise, German Shepherds may show off some unpleasant behavior, like chewing. Continue to 10 of 16 below. Continue to 11 of 16 below. Continue to 12 of 16 below. They perk up as they grow older, making them look extra tall and important. Continue to 13 of 16 below. Beautiful all black and all white German Shepherds are out there, too. Continue to 14 of 16 below. Continue to 15 of 16 below. This breed is inherently athletic and courageous—nothing can stop them, not even water. Continue to 16 of 16 below. These pups are incredibly intelligent and capable canines who are ready to work. And German Shepherd puppies are too cute! Remember, you can get any kind of dog, including a GSD, from shelters and rescues, so always adopt! They tend to be one-family pets, meaning they can be suspicious of strangers. Although absolutely gorgeous, Shepherds are shedders to the max. Prepare for a snow globe of hair to poof off your pup any time you give them a big snuggle, which will be more often than not. When you first get your puppy, playing may consist of nipping due to their herding background. When your GSD is fully grown, they may love to wrestle around and forget how big they are. These pups are always up for snuggling with others, including kids and other pets. Softies Who Are Also Busy Bodies If you want a German Shepherd puppy in your life, you have to really want your dog to be a part of every little bit of your daily routine. Morning showers? Your pup will want to sit right outside to make sure you rinse off the soap. Your bed? Highly intelligent and curious, Shepherds want to know what is going on all of the time. German Shepherds will attach at the hip and make the right person the happiest dog parent on the planet. German Shepherd puppy in grass close-up of German Shepherd puppy German Shepherd puppy in profile German Shepherd puppy on rock German Shepherd puppy lying down on lawn German Shepherd puppy looking at camera German Shepherd puppy on snow German Shepherd puppy in yard Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue. Would you adopt a German Shepherd Puppy? Do you have experience with these adorable pups? Let us know in the comments below! Our extensive collection features hundreds of stunning photos of these adorable canines in various poses, settings, and backgrounds. Type of Images Available Our collection of German Shepherd puppy images features a variety of different types of photos, including portraits, candid shots, outdoor and indoor images, and more. From close-ups of their expressive faces to action shots of them running and playing, our images capture the energy and character of this amazing breed. Our images can be used for a multitude of purposes, including websites, blog posts, advertisements, social media, books, magazines, and more. Whether you're sharing photos of your own German Shepherd puppy or you need images for a commercial project, our collection is a great resource. Tips for Choosing the Right Image Choosing the right image can make all the difference when it comes to creating a compelling design or message. Here are some tips for selecting the perfect image: Consider the mood you want to convey Think about the context in which the image will be used Look for images with high resolution and clarity Take into account the color scheme of your project and select images that complement it Choose images that have a clear focal point and aren't cluttered Why Choose Our Images? Our collection of German Shepherd puppy images offers a unique combination of quality, variety, and affordability. We pride ourselves in providing images that are visually stunning while still being accessible to a wide range of individuals and businesses. Plus, we offer flexible licensing options, including Royalty-free and Extended licenses, to fit your specific needs. With our images, you can create compelling projects that capture the essence of this beloved breed, no matter what your design or marketing goals may be. So why wait? Browse our collection today to discover the perfect German Shepherd puppy image for your next project!
What Is a Fawn Pug? The fawn Pug is a common color variant of the Pug breed. This dog has a pale coat color that has soft cream or a faint tan shade. Fawn Pugs may also have lighter or darker fur in some areas of their body. Other than its color, the fawn Pug shares most of its traits with the rest of the Pug breed. When we chase back history, there are only a few details about the fawn color. However, it was noted that Pugs are considered an ancient breed, and it was through selective breeding wherein the fawn color was developed. These brachycephalic dog breeds were standardized by the 19th century, and the fawn fur color was generally used as a foundation in shows as it gained popularity during breeding processes globally. Generally, the fawn and black fur color of Pugs are recognized as standard by reputable kennel clubs worldwide. Fawn-colored Pugs are usually seen in dog shows and movies since they are more desired by pet lovers. These Pugs also come in different varieties, such as regular fawn Pugs, apricot fawn Pugs, and silver fawn Pugs. However, they are still the same dog breed. These color varieties are just simply to describe the tinge and fur shade. Are Fawn Pugs Rare? These non-black Pugs are the most common Pugs globally. Despite them carrying recessive genes, fawn Pug puppies are about two-thirds of the Pug population. However, a particular fawn Pug variety, the silver fawn Pug, is pretty rare. They are much lighter than the regular and apricot fawn Pugs. A fawn Pug is a small breed dog with a pale tan coat color or slightly yellowish and very light cream. They also exhibit a brachycephalic head, which means that they have flat faces. Fawn-colored Pugs have wrinkled faces, a short muzzle, big prominent eyes, round heads, and non-erect ears. Their bodies are usually compact with a curly tail at the back, and their legs are short. They have masks that typically cover the muzzle and chin and extend around the eyes. This marking is highly desirable in dog shows, especially darker ones. Moreover, they have a darker brown sheen or black hairs on their backs called trace. It predominantly starts at the back of the neck down to the base of the tail. However, the trace may fade away as the fawn puppy matures. In addition, there may be slight differences between male and female Pugs. However, both genders grow to about 10 to 14 inches tall and weigh between 13 and 20 pounds. Although fawn Pug puppies already came from a tiny breed, their size and weight should not be confused with teacup Pugs that are not pedigree dogs. As mentioned above, these Pugs have varieties that have silver or apricot tones. Some kennels consider them under fawn-colored dogs, while others separate them as apricot Pugs or silver Pugs since fawn is a broad term. Pugs with apricot fawn coats have a medium cream appearance that is darker than that of a regular fawn Pug. Silver fawn Pugs have the lightest shade, and they usually appear as extremely pale silver tinge coats. They may have markings such as masks on their faces, but each purebred Pug will have unique placements of these marks. Most Pugs are also not uniformly solid in color. Some may have lighter or dark coat hues. Other rare Pug colors that are not fawn are brindle Pugs, panda Pugs, and chocolate Pugs. However, we will discuss those in other articles. A Pug puppy gets one color gene from each of its parents. Combining these two color genes will determine the coat color of the litter. A reputable breeder usually does DNA testing to achieve the desired fur color. That means the parent should be both fawn Pugs, or the black Pug being bred to the fawn Pug should carry the recessive genes for fawn Pug litter to be produced. This happens because black is a dominant color, meaning you only need one black gene to produce black Pugs, despite being bred to a fawn Pug. In the case of a fawn-colored Pug puppy, they either lighten or darken, especially in their first year of existence. As puppies, they may appear with a dirt-like appearance due to the black hairs intermingled with their light colored-fur. These hairs are called smuttiness, and they often fade as the pup grows. The same goes with the trace. In contrast, the masks of non-black Pugs tend to darken as puppies mature into adults. They generally follow the guidelines set by the Pug Dog Club. However, Pugs with non-standard Pug colors such as silver fawn, those with brindle coats, and apricot Pugs can still be registered in AKC but cannot compete in show rings. The Canadian Kennel Club recognizes three Pug colors — silver-fawn, fawn, or black. Aside from either fawn or black Pugs, the Kennel Club of the UK accepts four coat colors as a breed standard, including silver and apricot-colored dogs. For generations, the Pug breed has proven to be great companions and family pets. Fawn Pug puppies have docile, charming, playful, and affectionate personalities, making them loved by most dog lovers. An essential thing to consider is that a fawn Pug does not tolerate being left alone for long periods and is highly attached to its owners. So if you want a clingy buddy, a fawn Pug puppy is perfect for you. They are great with children and other pets, including cats. However, they still need to be socialized early to know how to behave appropriately. These fawn puppies are intelligent purebred Pugs that respond well to training and positive reinforcement. However, you may need to stand your ground at times since most Pugs are stubborn. Furthermore, they tend to be energetic, so as Pug owners, you should give them about 30 minutes of exercise to shake off stored energies and avoid destructive behavior. It is important to note that coat colors do not affect the temperament of your Pug. Female Pug: Which Is Better? The lifespan of a fawn Pug is between 11 and 14 years. They are a brachycephalic breed which makes them prone to several health problems. This makes them at risk of developing respiratory problems like laryngeal collapse and hypoplastic trachea. This can cause neurological issues, pain, weakness, and loss of bladder control. However, this can be managed by rest and anti-inflammatory medicines. Heat Stroke: Pug dogs are affected mainly by heat strokes due to their tight coats. They are sensitive to changes in temperature and do not do well in hot climates. Keeping them indoors during summer can help avoid this condition as it can be life-threatening. Many factors will surround the health of your puppies, such as acquiring them from a reputable breeder, diet, exercise, and genetics. Puppy Prices and Expenses Since the fawn color in Pugs is one of the standard colors, fawn Pugs are priced similarly to other Pugs. Adopting a fawn Pug puppy is a great option. This means you get to save money while giving a rescue pup a second chance at life. They will need essential items to transition and settle into a permanent home. Here is a list of initial expenses in owning a fawn Pug puppy: Type of Expense. Few people can resist the goofy smile of a Pug. However, the market price of a Pug will vary greatly based on a few important factors, such as the blood line, breeder reputation, location, and coat color. However, compared to other dog breeds, Pugs are not very cheap. Though you can certainly find one for much less, the average cost of a healthy Pug from a good breeder is not something to scoff at. There are plenty of factors that can determine how much a Pug will cost you. For instance, location, breeder reputation, pedigree and colors can all play a factor in Pug price. Location Unfortunately, the price of a Pug can vary depending on where you are. In some countries such as the UK , these dogs will likely cost a lot more. And even in the same country, the price will vary by location state, city, region, etc. If you must pick up a Pug in a certain region, then there is very little you can do. Driving for more than 10 hours one way may require an overnight stay. Pedigree and Lineage The pedigree or bloodline of a Pug will matter in regards to price. In fact, this may be the most important factor for price variation seen in all dog breeds, including Pugs. According to Business Insider , the prices of pedigree dogs such as Pugs are climbing to an all-time high. So what exactly is a pedigree dog? These dogs have at least 3 generations without any crossbreeding. Anything less is technically not a pedigree dog. However, there has been concern and controversy over the overbreeding of pedigree dogs. These dogs are bred over and over again using dogs from the same family. Inbreeding can lead to a lower life expectancy in Pugs, as well as potential degenerative diseases and mutations. Rather, the opposite is likely to happen. Pugs with a superior lineage will cost much more than a Pug without. And when I say superior lineage, I really mean champion lineage. Champion dogs are those that win an event at an AKC event. Sometimes, these dogs can command a hefty premium if they have an impressive long list of ancestors. Another great reason to go with AKC registered Pugs is that you can confirm the lineage of the pup. Reputable Pug Breeder There are two types of breeders you can purchase a Pug from: reputable and non-reputable breeders. I always highly recommend finding a reputable breeder. However, just like in every industry, reputation comes with a premium price. By reputable breeders, I really mean responsible breeders. The American Kennel Club inspects thousands of kennels each year and provide certification to those that breed responsibly. But because these breeders are recognized and recommended by the AKC, their puppies do come with a premium. These colors are fawn and black. Selling different colored dogs for different prices is frowned upon. However, even reputable breeders do this. Unfortunately, this is a classic example of supply and demand. In addition, expect the apricot, silver and apricot fawn colors also see a markup in prices. Less common dogs cost more. Personally, I think the classic fawn Pug with a black mask is the most attractive. No matter what color, all Pugs will be loving dogs and companions. To sum things up, the key is to shop around. There are so many great adoption websites with plenty of Pugs that need a new home. The first site I highly recommend is Adopt-a-Pet. With just a quick check, I already see plenty of Pugs on that marketplace! Another fantastic website is PetFinder. Have a check for yourself! Visit Your Local Animal Shelters Adopting a Pug from an animal shelter is always the best, that is, if you can find one. Do a simple Google search for shelters near you and check Yelp too! When doing your research, check to see if they have a website. It might be a good idea to check that before driving all the way there. It really depends on the shelter, but adoption fees can vary a lot. Are Pugs Worth the Price? But are they really worth the cost? Pugs are some of the most entertaining dogs you can find. My pug is definitely a handful but being able to come back from work to see her silly face every day is well worth the time and money spent. Pug Owner So, yes — Pugs are definitely worth the price! Some claim that these super pedigree Pugs are more intelligent. The truth is, all Pugs are intelligent in their own way. They may not be the most obedient dog breeds, but they show high instinctive and adaptive intelligence. How much did your Pug cost? Let us know in the comments section below! Posts you may like:. The following information regards prices in the United States. So, how much are pugs? The cost of a pug depends on: There are three factors that go into the pug price: Location — prices can vary from state to state. How much do pugs cost if… I rescue my pug from a reputable rescue? I buy a pug from a reputable breeder? I want a specific color pug? How much do pugs cost if I rescue my pug from a reputable rescue? How much do pugs cost if I buy a pug from a reputable breeder? If your pug comes from a champion line and is show quality, they can cost even more. Can you pay less for a pug from a reputable breeder? Actually, yes. These retired pugs are usually spayed or neutered and cared for as beloved pets. In many cases, they are still only a few years old and get placed for free or for a small fee. Some breeders may list these dogs on their website, while others may just keep them as pets until the right home comes along. If you have a breeder in mind, but sure to ask them. Why are pugs so expensive? Pugs are expensive because they have small litters, often need a C-section to give birth, and because they are a popular breed in high demand. The average size of a pug litter is 4 to 6 puppies. Pugs are prone to health issues, and can have complications during and after pregnancy. Expensive vet bills, and excellent care, are not cheap, meaning that puppies will cost more. How much do pugs cost if I want a specific pug color? According to the American Kennel Club, pugs come in three colors: Silver. Apricot-fawn, with a black face mask. Learn more about pug colors here. Your eyes may bulge with excitement. It sounds too good to be true! These puppies are sold by backyard breeders. Backyard breeders are amateur breeders who breed dogs in substandard and unethical ways. So skip the cheap puppy ads and Craigslist posts and focus on finding a reputable breeder. Need help weeding out the bad guys? The extra cost of getting a pug: The price you pay to own a pug is just the beginning. After that comes other expenses , like vaccines, check-ups, food, supplies, pet insurance, training and more. How much did your pug cost? Click here to learn more pug stuff. Pin for later! Less - Square-proportioned, compact and of a cobby build, the pug is a large dog in a little space. Its gait is strong and jaunty, but with a slight roll of the hindquarters. Its distinctive expression is soft and solicitous. Its forehead has large, deep wrinkles. Its coat is fine, smooth and short. The Pug breed is often described by the Latin phrase multum in parvo, or "much in little" or "a lot of dog in a small space", alluding to the Pug's remarkable and charming personality, despite its small size. Pugs are strong willed but rarely aggressive, and are suitable for families with children. The majority of the breed is very fond of children and sturdy enough to properly play with them. Depending on their owner's mood, they can be quiet and docile but also vivacious and teasing. Pugs tend to be intuitive and sensitive to the moods of their owners and are usually eager to please them. Pugs tend to have a somewhat lazy nature and spend a lot of time napping. They are often called "shadows" because they follow their owners around and like to stay close to the action, craving attention and affection from their owners. History There are various theories regarding the origin of the Pug breed, but the most generally accepted is that they originated in the Orient, and are a smooth-coated, longer-legged type of Pekingese. They have been well known in Europe since at least the 16th Century. After gaining favor with Royalty, the breed became very popular and even more well known. The AKC recognized the Pug in .Pin it to remember the Price of Pugs Why are Pugs so expensive? So just why are Pugs so expensive? One reason is because Pugs, like most other Brachycephalic dogs with flat faces and large heads , are most often born via cesarean section. Pugs are also susceptible to numerous orthopedic and hereditary diseases—so reputable breeders will conduct testing on both parents to help ensure a healthy litter. This test screens for Hip Dysplasia and Patellar Luxation. Breeders also have the option to test for Elbow Dysplasia with this screening. This important test screens for Necrotizing meningoencephalitis NME , a fatal brain disorder that can kill Pug puppies. This metabolic disease breaks down the red blood cells of a young Pug. The price will depend on several factors: The location of the breeder. The rules of supply and demand pertain to dogs as well so larger metropolitan areas are often more expensive. The pedigree of the parent Pugs. Pugs that have participated in sanctioned competitions have more expensive litters. Whether the Pug is a show quality dog or a pet quality dog. Show quality puppies with a future in competitive dog shows and breeding are more expensive. The age of the Pug. Puppies are definitely more expensive; you may occasionally find a breeder selling a retired breeding Pug or a Pug that originated at the breeder but has been returned. The color of the Pug. AKC recognized two colors : black and fawn. The Canadian Kennel Club recognizes fawn, silver fawn and black. The Federation Cynologique Internationale and the Kennel Club of the UK both recognize silver sometimes called silver-fawn , apricot often called apricot-fawn , fawn and black. The less common the color, the more expensive the dog. Attend a sanctioned dog show and talk with Pug breeders and competitors for recommendations. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations regarding reputable breeders. Do an online search for complaints. Check the Facebook page of the breeder and read through comments. Remember, however, comments can be deleted by the page owner. When you find a breeder and want to determine if they are reputable: Ask for references. The breeder should be happy to share the name and contact information for customers. Ask questions. Lots of questions. The breeder should be glad to share the test results from the health tests and screenings. Ask how often the dogs are bred. Ask to tour the kennels. Are they well maintained? Do the dogs look healthy? Beware of operations that will not let you tour the kennels and breeders that want to meet you in a parking lot to hand over the puppy. Be prepared for questions. The breeder should ask YOU questions as well; be suspicious if the breeder has no questions about your past history with pets, your living situation, etc. Ask if the breeder will take the Pug back if necessary. Ask for a contract. If medical problems are diagnosed, the breeder should readily take the pup back and provide a full refund. Pug breeders may adopt out of the area but, nonetheless, you will want to go to the breeder to meet the parents, view the kennels and bring home your puppy in person. This will add to your expenses—but breeders that transport a puppy by air are putting the dog at risk. If you want to buy a Pug online, please think again. There are numerous scams; people spend thousands of dollars for a dog and never receive a puppy. AKC warns potential pet parents to be wary of any seller asking for payment by Venmo, in gift cards or as a wire transfer. Dogs purchased from puppy mills can mean years of heartache and expensive veterinary care. The pros of purchasing from a Pug breeder: You may be able to select a puppy—including a choice of color and gender. A reputable breeder will be passionate about Pugs and will a resource for years to come. The cons of purchasing from a Pug breeder You will pay more for a Pug from a breeder than a rescue or shelter. If you find a breeder who has Pug puppies for sale at prices far lower than you are seeing from other breeders, you must suspect you are dealing with a backyard breeder who has not done health screening, with an online seller who is operating a puppy mill or is running a scam. You will need to wait until puppies are available. You will need to do your own due diligence to select a reputable breeder. Pugs in rescues are far less expensive that those at a breeder. Pugs under a year old will be the most costly. The dogs that are up for adoption at Pug rescues may be there for a variety of reasons: Death of an owner. Lost Pugs that the rescue had seen on shelter websites. Pugs a breeder no longer wanted. Whatever the reason, the Pugs in rescue may or may not come with papers, depending on whether or not the dog was surrendered with papers. You may also find Pug rescues at pet expos and special events in your area. Rescues will often have a booth with information on the rescue and a few adoptable dogs. Most dogs at purebred rescues are pulled from shelters, often open-intake shelters that may not be no-kill shelters. You will be able to adopt a Pug for far less money than purchasing a Pug from a breeder. You will be able to talk with people who are passionate about Pugs about the individual Pug you are interested in adopting. Our most recent search brought up a healthy, 7-month-old Pug puppy so you never know. Your dog may or may not be a purebred Pug and may or may not have papers. The least expensive option when it comes to Pug prices is the shelter, either a municipal shelter or a privately-operated shelter. Are you a senior? A member of the military or law enforcement? Many shelters offer special discounts. To locate a Pug at a shelter, call your local shelter or start your search online. Click on the link of adoptable Pugs in the top left corner; you can then enter your zip code to see Pugs near you. The listings will include both rescues and shelters. Unlike adopting from a Pug rescue, dogs at a shelter will generally be housed at the shelter although an increasing number utilize foster homes whenever they can, especially for puppies. If the dog is housed at the shelter, you may not know a lot about his or her personality. Talk with the shelter staff and ask if the dog has been temperament tested and if they can tell you if the dog is skittish, shy, outgoing, has any prior training, etc. And while you may see dogs listed as a Pug at a shelter, that may or may not mean they are Pugs, purebred or mixed. Shelters use their best judgement, often while intaking many dogs, so sometimes the accuracy of the breed is questionable. Since Pugs do have such a distinctive look, however, you can use your judgement to see if the dog displays usual Pug characteristics and markings. Ask the shelter if they have any background on the dogs; you may be surprised to find a puppy whose purebred mother came in as a pregnant lost dog and gave birth at the shelter. It definitely happens. The Pros of Adopting a Pug from a Shelter You are saving a life, not only of the dog you adopt but of the next dog who will be rescued due to the kennel that is now clear. Your new dog will have received a long list of veterinary services. You will have the love of a dog whose price was far less than that of a dog from a breeder. You may not know the history of the dog. FAQ What is the cheapest price for a Pug? If you find low-cost purebred Pugs listed online, please consider that you may be supporting a puppy mill. What is the Teacup Pug price? These dogs are the result of breeding the smallest runt dog of one litter to the smallest dog of another litter, producing smaller than usual Pugs—and selling them for sometimes twice as much as a traditional Pug. As you might expect, this can mean additional health problems for the puppies. Are Pugs expensive to own? While their small size means Pugs are not as expensive to own as larger breeds, due to the potential health issues discussed above they can be expensive in terms of veterinary care. Pet insurance is a good investment to help cover vet issues as they arise. Pin it to remember the Price of Pugs Posted on Last updated:. In Canada it is CAD to .So, when purchasing from a different state, you also must consider travel fees when buying a Pug from a different country. Why Are Pugs So Expensive? Pugs are a popular dog breed currently taking 28th spot on the list of the most popular dogs in America. Lots of people want a Pug so this demand tends to increase their price. Popularity alone does not control the price of a Pug. There are many other factors that make Pugs expensive. A major one is breeding fees. It is not easy to breed a healthy Pug. Professional breeders do not just want to sell you any kind of dog. They want to show you a puppy that is cute, adheres to the breed standard and is in good health. To breed a puppy like this takes lots of money that will be reflected in the final sale price. Most of the fees that are involved within the pregnancy and birthing of Pugs are because they are brachycephalic. As a brachycephalic breed it is difficult for mothers to give birth to their pups. Going into labor is body intensive and difficulty breathing only makes the process more strenuous. Not only that but Pugs tend to have narrow hips. The heads of puppies tend to be large in proportion to their body and sometimes they cannot easily pass through the birth canal. For these two reasons Pug breeders often elect to do C-sections. Finally, before the mother can give birth, breeders must ensure that she and the father are in good health. In Pugs it is common to see brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, hip and elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, and eye conditions. The Pug Dog Club of America recommends that all Pugs are screened for hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and necrotizing meningoencephalitis. Pugs from these breeders are usually more expensive because breeders go to great lengths to breed healthy and high quality dogs. Not only that, but they also tend to give you a dog with all of its vaccines and registration papers. The price of a Pug can really go up when you consider genetic health testing, vet visits, membership documentations and registration fees. No documentation with the sale. No available health care records or genetic testing results of the parents. Breeders that advertise their dogs on websites like Craigslist at a cheaper price. They often breed dogs other than just Pugs. To be a part of these clubs breeders must be certified and approved to have met breeding requirements. As you search for a Pug keep in mind the type of puppy you want. Do you want a specific color? Most often breeders sell fawn or black Pugs. If you want a rare color you are going to have to do some extra searching. What kind of temperament do you want? Pugs are very social. In general they tend to be friendly, affectionate, playful and mischievous. However some may be more timid than others. Will it be healthy? Puppies should have a brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome score of zero. Sometimes you might fall in love with a Pug in a picture but later find out it is missing its health papers. In most cases you should avoid this type of puppy. Reputable breeders should be able to provide you with health papers and registration papers. They will always be clear about the kind of Pug you are buying and their pedigree. They will give you straightforward answers on anything you ask and will show you any paperwork that you ask for. They will also allow you to see the puppy and the mother. Buying from a breeder might not be the cheapest option, but it does ensure you that you are getting a healthy Pug. Cost Of Keeping A Pug Pugs live for between 12 and 15 years so adopting one is a long-term commitment. Out of all the years, the first one will generally be the most expensive. Where does this money go? We will breakdown their typical ownership costs below… Healthcare and Insurance There is no way around it. If you do get a Pug, it is highly recommended that you get insurance. Pugs often have unforeseen medical expenses because they are a brachycephalic breed. You have to be careful when exercising your Pug, especially if you live in hot areas and during the summer months. Overexertion and heat can cause make it harder for them to breathe, and if you do not recognize the signs of heat stress, your dog could end up at the vet ER. You could also find yourself paying for treatment for some of the common health issues within Pugs. Some of these include: Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome, Fold Dermatitis, obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, and patellar luxation. Dog Food Pugs need a well-balanced diet. It is not a good idea to just give your dog whatever is left over from your last meal. They need high quality kibble that is specifically made for their breed. Pugs are small dogs so they should be eating food that is specifically made for small dogs. Puppies will eat at most 80 pounds of dry food every year, while adults eat about pounds. Some brands will cost you more. The following are some examples of kibble that you can buy for your Pug. Food Brands. Quality How much do Pug Cost? Pugs are fast becoming a famous dog breed due to their loveliness and mischievous nature. This breed originated from China, and it first came out in BC. Today, most people around the globe are buying this breed. How much do pugs cost is the big question most pug lovers ask. Various factors determine the price of pugs. In this article we will answer: How much do pug cost without papers How much is a tan pug? How much are blue pugs? How much are black pugs? How much are grey pugs? How much does a pug cost in average by location? The price of a pug largely depends on which country you buy the pug from. These prices range from one country to another. The following are some countries where you can buy these dogs and their price range. S dollars. S dollars which is about to Canadian dollars. Time of the year also an important factor to pug puppies price Another important factor that influences the price of pugs is the season and the time of the year you buy a pug. Most people purchase dogs during winter holidays and in late spring. This is because people want to enjoy their vacation with a new dog. This high demand, therefore, makes the price of pugs to skyrocket. After these seasons, the costs of these companion dogs fall significantly due to the low demand but a constant supply leading to an excess amount of pugs in the market. Age of a pug Baby pugs cost much more than old and retired pugs. The price of pugs is always high from the 5th week to about the 10h week after birth. After which, their value decreases, and if they are not bought by the age of 4 months there is a low chance any new buyer looking for new puppy pugs will buy them. It is important to note that purchasing adult pugs will make you miss the puppy training period. Quality The quality of a breeder is essential for having a healthy pug. The different attributes can be pugs with heavy breathing and those that have golf-ball bulging eyes. You should, therefore, expect to pay higher prices for quality pugs. The pugs that immigrated directly from China which is the native country of the breed are considered to have a high quality. This is because they have the high-quality gene source. It is advisable to buy pugs from a professional and reputable breeder in order to get value for your money. These breeders also have the required expertise and can accurately price a pug. Here are the 12 famous pug puppies for sale websites. Keep yourself informed! We have gathered tons of useful pug tips , frequently asked questions and trivia for you here. Read on and get to know your pug better. Our staff are avid fans and dedicated owners of Pugs. We hope to answer all the questions you have about Pugs. Just read and enjoy. Feel free to share if you find it valuable to others! Best regards,
We are a small family breeder located on four acres in Olympia, Washington which is in Thurston County, just an hour south of Seattle. We will only ever have three breedings dogs one male and two females so we can always ensure each dog and its puppies have the love, time, attention, and socialization they need. Lots of love and attention make for well-socialized and happy dogs! We are proud to be raising happy, healthy, and beautiful retriever puppies from prestigious European lineage. Our puppies are always remarked on for their good looks and for being well-socialized. We work hard to ensure our dogs have the best life - and your pup has the best start possible! Nutrition, veterinary care, exercise, and health are our top priorities. Ethical breeding is key to PGP. Our dogs are members of our family and we truly take delight in helping to match an individual or family with a new puppy. When you choose a PGP pup then you become part of our community - we love to hear from you and stay up to date with your puppy, we are a resource if you have any questions. To get on our reservation list for a beautiful Golden Retriever puppy to add to your family, please reach out to us. We look forward to hearing from you! All our puppies have new homes! Be first in line for your new puppy! Get on the waitlist for Silver Labs and Golden Retriever Puppies due beginning of October Past litter of male puppies Looking for a puppy to add to your family? Golden Retrievers Labrador Retrievers Chocolate Labs Silver Labs Meet The Puppies These are gorgeous, and energetic dogs who: require daily exercise and are perfect for you, if you love being outdoors and living an active lifestyle are easily trained and very intelligent, making them great family companions. We are located just 60 miles outside of Seattle on a 50 acre farm that's been in our family since my grandfather purchased it when he returned from Europe after World War II. Our dogs love it here. The mamas will even hop in the back of the truck to go help us feed the cows or play in the grass while we're tending to the horses. Our puppies are well socialized as they spend time with our family and with regular visits to the vet you have our assurance that not only are they cute but healthy. Golden Retrievers Silver Labrador Retrievers Chocolate Labrador Retrievers Healthy Your puppy is ready to go home with you at 8 weeks old, with AKC registration, a healthy puppy vet check, their first shots, and age appropriate wormings. Adorable You will literally have your pick of the litter depending on who the mama is. Whether it's an English Style Silver or Chocolate Lab or a beautiful Golden Retriever you are sure to find the puppy that steals your heart. Raised With Love Our dogs are our family pets and are a part of our everyday lives. They spend their days with us and you may find them roaming the farm or on a trail ride. They are raised with chicken, cows and horses. Our puppies also spend lots of time playing outside so they are well socialized, great around children and other pets. Have questions? We are a phone call, text or email away! Testimonials Meet Boone What a wonderful, friendly, dog loving, farm home to buy our beautiful Silver Lab, Boone, from! We were able to make trips to visit Boone while he grew, Wendy was always accommodating and super nice. During these visits we also became more acquainted with Boone's mom and grandmom, they are both loving and gentle souls. These are qualities we were looking for in our next dog as we have young grandchildren that will be a big part of Boone's life. We have had Boone for two weeks now. And he surprises us daily with how smart he is. We could not be happier with the start in life he had at Wendy's, his breeding, and HIM!! And I haven't even mentioned how absolutely beautiful Boone is! We collectively decided on getting a dog. We wanted a happy, smart, loyal breed that could fit in and grow with our kids. With those criteria we started looking for a Labrador Retriever. We soon drove to the farm to pick out our puppy. From that moment, until today, we have been so happy with our choice! Our silver lab, Rumble Rainier, has been value added to our home. He is perfect with our sons, he learned our routines quickly, and he keeps us smiling every day. Say Hi to Boomer.They were amazing to work with thru the whole process. We first picked him out in January and we got to visit every other week to watch him grow and get him familiar with us. He was the cutest little brown fur ball and it was fun to see him interact with all his siblings and his mom. He was also very loved and handled by their kids during the times we could not visit. He is a year old now and a very healthy and beautiful lab. He loves being outside, playing fetch, playing with his soccer ball, or being anywhere our 12 year old daughter is. He has been a great addition to our family! They really love their dogs and know how to breed healthy, well-adjusted dogs. Our Boomer loves all dogs, adults and children because of this. We are so thankful to Green Valley Pups and Paws for this whole experience! Amber McKinney.
Quickly place your dog in their designated potty area. Praise them when they urinate or mess in the correct area. You must always watch them when they are loose in the house, or else they will have an accident. Follow this guide on potty training your German Shepherd , step-by-step, for a stress-free experience. Enjoy Gentle Daily Exercise German Shepherd puppies have lots of energy but still need gentle exercise. Your breed is highly active and loves the challenge of new activities! But these activities must consider their age. Start with a shorter walking session and work on building up the time and distance as your dog matures. Increase distance very slowly to avoid injuries to your dog. Begin with only 5 minutes of slow walking for every month your pup is old. An 8-week-old pup can walk 10 minutes at a time. A week-old pup can handle 15 minutes of walking at a leisurely pace. Your large-breed pup needs time to let its bone fully fuse and to gain an increase in strength. Here are a few more safe, healthy German Shepherd puppy exercise for steady growth. This is the same program I used for my GSD and she now jogs a 10k routinely. Mental Exercise and Training are Essentials Without proper mental exercise, your dog becomes bored. Boredom leads to destructive and annoying behaviors such as: excessive barking biting and nipping you and your guests mouthing your hands or digging up your yard Brain games mentally stimulate your dog. These games require your dog to figure out a small task to receive a reward. Mental activity is shown to help keep dogs more engaged in their environments and prevent boredom. They help control unwanted behaviors from boredom. I started my German Shepherd with this activity flip board dog brain puzzle. As your dog becomes proficient in a game, you make the game more challenging. There is no end to how easy or hard you can make these games! Learn the Joys of Grooming Start puppies out with grooming gloves, which are gentle and easier on their skin. GSDs need a brushing routine that keeps them and your house free from excessive loose hair and helps their skin stay healthy. Use these grooming gloves on your puppy while in a quiet area. They are soft and gentle and create a positive association with future grooming. Offer tasty treats to keep the grooming upbeat. Use a soothing voice and tell them how good they are. Above all, help make grooming and brushing positive experiences from the very start to save yourself and your dog stress later. A baby German Shepherd that tolerates and even enjoys a daily brushing is a dog that is easier to keep in better health and experiences less frustration when you bring out the grooming tools. While a puppy gets immunity through nursing in the first weeks of life, the immunity wears off shortly. Therefore puppies get a series of shots during their initial vaccination schedule. Vaccines prevent illness and keep your pet safe from disease. Your breeder should give your pup their first vaccination series before you bring them home. Bring this vaccination history with you to your vet on your first visit. Your Priority of Care What to Do 1. Make your house puppy ready for your new dog Prepare their sleep area, have the right supplies on hand, and make sure any hazards are put away out of reach. Communicate the essentials Have a list of words printed out so that you and your family know what to say to help your puppy learn what you want and what he needs to know. Meet their daily needs Your puppy has a lot to do each day for their basic care, so understand what routine you must develop for them to thrive. Set sleep routines Having a sleep routine in place keeps your puppy from becoming too unruly. Teach potty training Start from day 1 to teach potty and house training by using a structured schedule. Daily gentle exercise German Shepherd puppies need gentle exercise so avoid running, jumping, or jogging with them until around 18 months or so to prevent joint issues later. Brain training and mental stimulation Your smart breed needs to keep their mind occupied by using a training program to brain train their obedience skills and include mental stimulation with fun games and puzzles. Early introduction to grooming A grooming glove is your best friend for a safe, easy introduction to later brushing and coat maintenance. German Shepherd Puppy Care for Life While there are many aspects to puppies, this guide is a great start on learning how to take care of a German Shepherd puppy so you feel confident with your new puppy. These early encounters set the pattern of his future relationship with you. Use these ideas to make your German Shepherd love you and give them plenty of love and affection throughout the day. With proper care and attention, you and your GSD will enjoy a long, happy life together. Want more help with your German Shepherd puppy care for even smoother sailing? Are you prepared for any unusual and surprising behavior changes? Do you know what training your dog needs and when? She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Since German shepherds are large, active dogs and are known to have hips that give out, it's important to make sure they have good nutrition throughout their lives. Make sure to buy healthy food that is not full of filler ingredients. For example, make sure you are feeding a quality food that contains animal protein and doesn't use corn for protein. You can feed your German shepherd dry or wet food, or a combination of both. If you choose to feed your German shepherd homemade meals, it's important to talk to your veterinarian about what they need to include. This will help ensure that the dog will get a balanced diet. Try to resist giving your dog table scraps, especially if it is begging for them. People food can be unhealthy for the dog and can impact its interest in its healthy food. As your dog ages, it will have different nutritional needs. Feed your dog a food that is designed for its specific age, such as a puppy food when it very young, an adult food when it is in middle age, and senior food when it is in old age. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source There are also specific formulas you may need to consider at some point, for example, special foods for large breeds or weight control food for overweight dogs. Talk to your vet about what food will work best for your dog. Because your vet will understand your specific dog's health issues, they may want it to get specific nutritional needs met. Instead, mix the foods together, gradually increasing the new food and decreasing the old food over the course of several weeks. Look at the packaging of the food to determine the suggested serving size. This should be based on the size and age of your dog. You can also talk to your veterinarian about how much they think your dog should be eating. It is best to divide your German shepherd's daily food into 2 or more smaller meals. Giving smaller meals helps to minimize the risk of bloat, which is a life-threatening swelling of the abdomen. Go to source When you feed your dog several times a day, your dog will need to relieve themselves shortly after each meal. Never exercise a German shepherd right after they eat since this could increase the risk of bloating. In addition to feeding it healthy food, the snacks you feed your German shepherd can have an impact on its health. Pick low calorie treats that are satisfying for dogs, including crunchy vegetables and kibble in a feeding toy that slows the dog's consumption down. Dogs can drink a lot of water every day and it's important that they do to prevent dehydration. Fill up its bowl with clean water every day and leave it where your dog has access to it. Also, check up on the bowl throughout the day, if possible, to make sure there is plenty of water available. However, German shepherds should drink small amounts of water throughout the day, instead of drinking a large amount at one time. Gradually hydrating throughout the day will ensure that the dog doesn't get bloat. Dehydration can be a threat to your dog's health. Signs that it might be dehydrated and needs more water include excessive panting, loss of appetite, and dry nose or gums. If you see these symptoms, give your dog water immediately. Go to source Advertisement. German Shepherd dogs are known for their athletic capabilities, intelligence, and loyalty, making them one of India's most sought after breeds. Dog lovers are enamoured by the German shepherd's majestic appearance, intellect and guarding abilities. If you have decided or have recently become a German Shepherd's parent, you should be grateful to have such a loving and loyal companion who will stand by you no matter what in the years to come. However, parenting a German Shepherd is not an easy feat. Multiple factors need to be taken into consideration before you are confident that you will be able to provide for the needs of this dog. Parenting a German Shepherd is a highly gratifying affair, but the first step is choosing your puppy and caring for it. It needs to be planned out carefully to ensure that you and your dog spend all your days enjoying maximum satisfaction. This article will run you down through all the crucial decisions and actions that must be taken, starting from whether you should parent a German Shepherd, all the way to how you can care for your puppy. Is a German Shepherd is right for you? Before answering this question, it is imperative to check if parenting any German Shepherd is right for you to begin with. This breed is a very demanding one. It requires plentiful exercise to remain physically and mentally healthy. Without adequate playtime and activity, dogs of this breed can become destructive. So the question here is, do you have the facilities required to give your German shepherd this level of exercise? Do you have a yard, a park or a lawn near you where you can exercise your dog? Do you have the time to take them out on frequent walks? German Shepherds are usually suitable for people who engage in high-intensity sports such as running and bicycling. Will you be able to engage in such activities for the benefit of your dog as well as you? Similarly, German Shepherds are highly sociable animals and thrive in interactive environments. They need other dogs or people around them most of the time. Does your daily routine allow you to be near your dog for long periods of time? If you plan to leave your German shepherd at home for hours a day while you are working, this breed may not be suitable for you. Dogs of this breed are also prone to excessive shedding, and you need to be ready to find a lot of dog fur all around you. Being a large breed, feeding and taking care of these dogs are time and money intensive. They live long lives and can suffer from health problems too, and thus, caring for them can be an expensive affair. Thus, these are some of the questions that need to be answered to gauge whether a German Shepherd is indeed right for you to begin with. With these conditions in place, this breed may not be ideal for first-time dog parents. Coming to the type of German Shepherd that is right for you, this breed can be classified into two categories - work line type and show line type dogs. The differentiation is based on the heritage of the dogs of this breed and the purpose for which they were bred. Show lines were mainly bred for their look, colour and body type. Work Lines were primarily bred for their health and personality rather than to look a certain way. The line you choose depends on what you really want to be doing with your German shepherd. Work lines should be chosen if you seek a family pet or want some type of function to be performed because this type is known for its trainability, knowledge and skill. However, if you are more concerned with your dog's appearance, then going after show lines might be more appropriate. It must be mentioned, though, that it is possible to find show line dogs with the same characteristics as work line dogs and vice versa if they have been bred by individuals who are concerned with their appearance as well as health. Beyond work and show lines, age is another essential factor to consider. A good breeder would not offer puppies that are lesser than 8 weeks old as they still require their mother's milk as well as other social skills. Puppies who have received this from their mothers will be less likely to engage in destructive and unruly behaviour. First and foremost, verify that the puppy's parents have good health and desirable temperaments. Then examine the puppy in terms of health and hygiene by checking the eyes, ears, teeth, skin, coat, paws, etc. Study the gait of your puppy; it should be even. With German Shepherds, in particular, it is vital that you choose a pup that does not have undesirable traits. Visit the breeder at least four to five times before making a decision. Choosing a pup from the litter that is neither the timidest nor the most dominant would be wise if you want a bit of both traits. A German Shepherd puppy that is well built, energetic and sociable would be ideal. Next, to gauge the temperament of a puppy you want to select, you could perform a few simple tests, such as making eye contact with them. If they hold contact, it reflects confidence. It might be a sign of nervousness and anxiety if it looks away. Clapping your hands is another simple test. If the puppy runs away, it can be judged as timid, but it can signify that the pup wants to be friends if it approaches you. Similarly, other tests include calling the puppy to pet it, introducing it to a new toy, making a sudden noise, lifting the puppy and holding it above your head, or grabbing its paw. The reaction of puppies to such actions can provide much-needed insight into a puppy's temperament and help prospective dog parents make the right choice. On the one hand, if you prefer a dog that isn't prone to undermining your authority, it would be sensible to choose a moderately submissive puppy. On the other hand, if you want a dog for protection, it would be wise to choose a tough, trainable, and courageous puppy. After four to five visits, it would be possible for you to judge correctly - the personality and various character traits of the puppy you're interested in. As German Shepherds have highly individual personalities, you might bond more with one German Shepherd than the other. Lastly, before making a final decision, it is always good to ask the breeder for their opinion, as good breeders often have vital information about their puppies and can provide valuable insight into their characteristics and temperaments, thereby ensuring that you exactly find what you are looking for. Bringing Your German Shepherd Puppy Home Once you have established a rapport with a puppy and have made up your mind about becoming a dog parent, or a dog parent to another puppy, take a friend or companion with you who can help you clean up if your puppy is carsick. If you intend on making your puppy comfortable in a crate, give the crate to the breeder a few days before you bring the puppy home so that the breeder can help it acclimatize itself to the crate. The first day at home will be a traumatic experience for your puppy as it is away from its family. Thus, ensure that your puppy has a place to be comfortable and relaxed, with an adequate amount of food and water. It would be wise to spend some time exclusively with your puppy initially, such as an extended weekend plan so that your bond can grow. Be sure to collect your puppy's adoption contract and veterinary records. Furthermore, find out the exact kind of food that the breeder was giving the puppy you just adopted. Giving your pup entirely different food during the first few days can be traumatic for them. With their unfamiliar sights, smells, and sounds, your home and car can frighten your puppy, leading it to stress out and get anxious. Anticipate this and give your pup some time to adjust to the new environment. The first few days can be demanding as a dog parent because you need to adapt to changes in your schedule with the arrival of your puppy. Similarly, the puppy, too, can cry, whine or get overly affectionate, which can be regarded as coping mechanisms to deal with the sudden change in environment. During this time, make sure you don't scold your puppy or be overly affectionate either. Before bringing your newly adopted puppy home, it is essential for you to puppy-proof your home! Go down on all fours and check for sharp objects, hazardous materials, or any other dangerous substance that your puppy might end up chewing or swallowing. Cover your electrical outlets as well. Stock your home with food that your puppy has been eating while under the breeder's care. Keep an adequate amount of food and water, water bowls, treats, and grooming tools such as brushes, shampoos for puppies and nail clippers. Cleaning detergent for stains and smells will also come in handy in case of any accidents. Decide on that area of the house that will be where your puppy spends most of its time. This step is crucial as constantly changing your puppy's place can lead to disruptive sleep patterns and cause stress. German Shepherds, being extremely active, will tend to run across your halls, and in such cases, an accident or two are bound to happen. In such cases, it would be a good idea to restrict your dog's movements to areas that can be cleaned easily. Furthermore, German Shepherds have sharp claws and can ruin expensive hardwood floors, so it would be wise to keep them away from such flooring. As mentioned previously, your puppy will be nervous during the first few days. Frequent bathroom breaks will be a necessity for your pup, and thus, keep an area designated just for this purpose. Also, let your dog run around the house and acquaint itself with its surroundings. If your dog is chewing or biting furniture in a puppy-proofed home, you could offer a toy as a distraction. If you have children, teach them how to properly handle your puppy without being too rough. If you have other pets, give your pup a chance to meet and acknowledge them. Be careful while introducing your puppy to other puppies and grown dogs. However, most dogs are not aggressive with puppies, so it is doubtful that you will face problems on this front. Between eight and sixteen weeks of age, Puppies require plenty of clean water to drink and many meals a day. They also have small bladders and hence, will urinate often. Since they expend a lot of energy during the day, they will take several naps. It would be recommended to begin a daily routine for your pup and stick to it. Since German Shepherds require a lot of physical activity, taking them out in the mornings and evenings for an adequate amount of time religiously would be necessary. The faster you get your pup accustomed to a routine, the more beneficial it is to better sleeping schedules and better mental and physical health. When you begin house training your dog, be sure to praise them when they relieve themselves in designated areas but refrain from punishing them if they fail to do so. Remember that your home is a new environment for them, and thus, it will take a while to house train them. Training Your German Shepherd Puppy. Training your dog from the day they come home is very important. Clear rules should be set that should not be broken. For example, if you do not want your dog to get on the bed, do not let them come on the bed ever. Allowing them sometimes and then not other times gets confusing for your dog, and they may not be able to learn the desired behaviour effectively. Training your puppy can be divided into two stages, each with different objectives. The first stage of training needs to take place when your pup is between eight to sixteen weeks of age. In this period, socialization, house training and crate training goals must be accomplished. The second stage of training needs to occur when your puppy is three months of age until about 9 months. The main objectives of this training phase are obedience training, impulse control, and recall. From 8 - 16 weeks Goal: Socialization German shepherds are very protective of their owners. This makes it essential to make them see that other individuals are not necessarily threats. This period is critical to expose your puppy to different people in non-threatening situations. This can help them grow more confident around strangers instead of becoming hostile. Socialization creates a strong foundation for the rest of your puppy's training. One example of socialization comes from the grooming requirements of this breed. German Shepherds need to be groomed regularly so that they don't shed a lot. Thus, introducing them to groomers at a young age and to tools like blow dryers and nail clippers can help achieve this goal of adapting to social environments. Furthermore, to improve their mental development, expose your puppy to new sights, sounds and smells to help their confidence improve. Goal: Crate Training Training your puppy to sleep or stay in a crate can be difficult at first as they might face separation anxiety. Crate training is necessary if you prefer sleeping alone or washing the utensils in the kitchen and need your puppy to stay in one place for a couple of minutes. Patience is key to achieving this goal. Help them get over their separation anxiety with the help of treats and toys. You can also use your crate for feeding purposes to help your pup get more acclimated to it. Goal: House Training A strict schedule can help get your dog house trained. When your pup is around 8 weeks old, it should be taken outside for a bathroom break every two hours or so. At 12 weeks, it should be taken every 3 hours and around 16 weeks, every 4 hours or so. Begin teaching your puppy how to eliminate on cue by looking for signs such as sniffing the floor or circling a particular spot, or going to an area where it has made a mess before. Using a command to push your puppy to go outside to relieve itself can be helpful. Remember to praise your pup when it obeys such actions. From 3 - 9 Months Goal: Obedience Training German Speherds are acutely intellectual and have a commendable work ethic. Training that has begun early and consistently can help your puppy's best traits and features emerge with time. Dogs of this breed are excellent at obeying commands, and you can begin this type of training by teaching basic commands such as stay, down, and up. They can even be trained to walk on a leash easily during this period. Goal: Recall When obedience training is done right, the goal of recalling or successfully calling your puppy to come to you becomes relatively easier. Achieving recall takes patience and practice. It should be done diligently and on a daily basis, using treats and toys as incentives. Achieving this goal can come in handy during emergency situations as well. Goal: Impulse Control German Shepherds are highly susceptible to boredom, often resulting in excessive and inappropriate chewing, barking, chasing, etc. They also have a tendency to chase down cars and even cats. Such impulses need to be controlled as they can otherwise lead to destructive and problematic behaviour. Training for impulse control simply means getting your puppy to pay attention to you when required. You can begin such type of training by getting your puppy to sit before eating or using commands during playtime, which makes them focus on your voice only. Treats and toys could be attractive incentives to encourage your pup to respond positively to commands. Feeding Your German Shepherd Puppy. Remember to follow the breeder's diet in the initial days and gradually change this diet to incorporate different foods. Milk should not be given to puppies at this age as it can cause diarrhoea. Puppies need to be given food rich in protein, calcium and fats as they are still growing. Their food needs to be higher in calories when compared to the food given to a grown dog. When you give your puppy a food bowl, give it a specific window of time to finish eating, such as 10 or 15 minutes. After this period, remove the bowl. This will help your pup understand that it has to eat during a specific period of time only, which is a valuable component of obedience training. Between 4 to 6 months of age, you can start feeding your puppy increased portions of food four times a day. Foods such as meat and vegetables would be ideal. Treats should only be resorted to during training and not as actual food for mealtimes. Make sure to never give leftover human food to puppies as they contain spices, salt, sugar and so on, which are very unhealthy for dogs. FAQs: Are german shepherd puppies hard to take care of? Not just german shepherds, all puppies are hard to take care of initially. This is because it is exactly like getting a newborn baby home. There will be sleepless nights, vet visits, training, creating and sticking to routines and so on. However, these efforts will eventually pay off, because once your pup is trained, they will be socialized and can adapt to your lifestyle easily. How many times should a german shepherd puppy eat a day? For up to four months, puppies should be fed three to four times a day. Post this period, gradually reduce the number of times your pup is fed. After eight to nine months, two meals a day will suffice. Where should my german shepherd sleep? German shepherds are highly sociable animals and should not be left alone for too long. Puppies should be trained to sleep in a crate or share the bed with you if you so desire. As they grow older, they can be allowed to sleep in a crate, or in an area specially designed for them. What are the best foods for german shepherd puppies? Like other puppies, they too require meals that are high in protein, grain-free, rich in good quality fats without any chemicals, artificial additives etc. Is it okay to feed a german Shephard 3 times a day? Up to eight to nine months of age, it is okay to feed your German Shepherd three times a day. However, feeding them twice a day is more than enough beyond this age. The amount of food ultimately depends on your dog's age, size, weight, and levels of physical activity. When do german shepherd puppies stop biting and jumping? It is perfectly normal for your puppy to constantly bite, chew, or jump for the first four to six months. However, while teething is normal, you must redirect your puppy to chew on toys and other things that are appropriate instead of household furniture. Do not wait to think issues will be resolved after months. Get professional help from day 1 to teach your pup the right behaviours. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are amazing dogs with perfect guiding skills and prominent intellect. If you have decided to get one for your home, be sure that you will obtain an obedient, loyal, and reliable friend. However, you need to know the main principles of German Shepherd puppy care to understand how to raise your dog healthy, energetic, and well-trained. Consider whether this dog breed is for you. Home conditions play a great role, so ensure that your GS puppy will feel great at your home. Consider such things as feeding , house training, socializing, exercising, playing, bedding, teaching obedience, grooming, and medical treatment. This guide will help you to find out more about this fascinating breed and how to deal with it with less effort. German Shepherd Puppy Care Starts with the First Minutes You can select your German Shepherd either as a puppy from a reputable breeder or as an adult dog in a dog shelter. Remember that your relationships with your fluffy friend start with the very first minutes of your acquaintance. Bringing a Puppy Home Suppose you have chosen a puppy from a breeder. Now, the first task is to bring it home. Bring someone with you to facilitate the task. You can use a puppy crate. So, ask your breeder to introduce the puppy to it several days before you take it home. However, taking a young puppy from its mother and siblings is always a big stress. Do your best to reduce it. If it is purebred, you may need a copy of a pedigree certificate. It is important if you want your dog to participate in shows. If you take the puppy home in a car, try to reduce the stress from new odors and experiences by letting it explore the inside of a vehicle to get used to it for a while before you drive. The puppy can start whining, so you may want to put it on your lap. However, puppies usually feel carsick and frightened, so they may make a mess. If your trip is long, you may stop and let your puppy stretch and relieve itself. You have already prepared it for a new tenant. This preparation should involve taking away all electrical wires, dangerous materials, tiny and sharp items, and everything your puppy can chew or swallow. You will also need chew toys, and a good cleaning detergent because accidents can happen during the first days. Learn the basics of how to care for a German Shepherd puppy before you bring it home. You may need to know how to arrange an area for sleeping , playing, and relieving. Start with introducing your little one to the potty place outside, and then bring it inside. Your doggy needs to get used to its new home first. So, let it explore the room meant for its stay first. If your puppy starts chewing furniture or house items, give it a chewing toy. Your new friend wants to see a pack leader in you, so it is essential to take this role from the very first minute. You can do it right now because further on it may try to challenge this role. Speak calmly but firmly, call the puppy by its name, and encourage it. If you have young kids, explain to them how to deal with the doggy. Introduce other pets to it. If you have a cat, it is likely not to care much about the puppy. Your cat will just sit and observe. Though, if you have other dogs, they may show a sort of aggression. So, you may need a muzzle for your dog at first to protect the puppy. When you see that they start getting on well, you may take off the muzzle. After that, you can feed your pup. Offer it some food that it is used to. After eating, take the doggy outside for relief. Wait for minutes and then take it back inside. Young puppies need to be fed several times per day, and they should have a lot of drinking water in a separate bowl. It may be the start of house training. However, accidents may happen, so do not scold or punish it. You also need to take your pup outside after every playing session. Try not to feed the doggy before it goes to bed, or you will have a sleepless night. Your puppy needs a special place for bedding. It may be a crate or some mat in a designated part of the room. Your little dog will go to it as soon as it wants to take a nap when it understands that it is its bedding. The First Night at Home Is Challenging The first night in a new place is a challenging and stressful experience for a puppy. It may start crying and whining because it is a pack animal and its instincts prompt it that staying alone is hazardous. So, you need to be in contact with your little one all the time. Avoid giving it food or drink immediately before going to bed because it will end in a mess in the room. Play with the pup for a while to make sure it is tired and ready to sleep. Take it outside before sleep and praise it if it is successful in doing its job. It will be difficult to eliminate this habit in the future. The best way is using the crate. Though, keep the crate not far from you to keep an eye on the pup. You can put it in your bedroom for the first night to make it feel comfortable. Give the puppy a treat before placing it into a crate. The puppy may want to potty at night, so take it out every three hours. You may need to take it out just once during the first nine months of age. You should offer optimal conditions for health, well-being, and daily activities. Month One Breeders are usually fully responsible for the care of a puppy during its first month. There is a strong risk of infections from adult animals and people that can lead to death. The mother is responsible for hygiene. At the age of 3- 6 weeks , breeders should carry out the first deworming. If there is a risk of infections, the puppies should receive their first preventive vaccination. More about 6 week old GSD puppy care. Month Two At this age, a puppy can have its new owner. Weaning from a mother is always significant stress, so if you take the puppy from the breeder, try to distract it with toys and continuous communication. When at home, the doggy needs a determined place for living. The ideal option is to keep it in an enclosed space with a special booth. When you want to keep the dog in a kennel, use straw or hay for its bedding. You can leave your pet unattended for a while during this time, but not for a long time to avoid stress. Moreover, it can start gnawing on something dangerous, get poisoned, and die. Do hair brushing times a week. Do not bathe the puppy before the vaccination. Even adult German Shepherds should not be washed more than 3 times per year. If there is a need for more frequent washing, do not use shampoo. Clean the ears and teeth 1 or 2 times per month. Monitor the eyes. If some redness or tearing appears, contact the vet. Vaccinate your puppy against plague, infectious hepatitis, parvovirus enteritis, parainfluenza, and leptospirosis at this age. Do deworming 2 weeks before the vaccination. Observe a 3-week quarantine after the first vaccination before walking outside. Do not bathe the puppy, change its diet, or do much exercise during this time. More about 2 month old GSD puppy care. Months Three-Six The puppy grows quickly during this time. Its limbs become longer, and the doggy is getting stronger. Start regular walking with the puppy. The first walks should be no more than 5 minutes, but at the age of 4 months , you can walk with it for minutes already. Up to 6 months, it is advisable to walk times a day, but when the puppy gets older, 2 long walks are enough. Take your puppy outside in your arms for the first walks, and then offer it moderate runs and games. Take care of its musculoskeletal system from the first months. The second vaccination is needed at the age of 3 months , and the next one is after the change of teeth. The teeth change at months, so the ears may drop down during this period because of a lack of calcium. All of these take time in the early days. However, as the puppy matures and reaches adulthood, looking after a German Shepherd gets a little easier. Nonetheless, a young adult will need around 2 hours of daily exercise. Without anyone to fulfill this role, a German Shepherd will not be happy in your home no matter what kind of care you provide. You should only get a German Shepherd if: Your house has a backyard. Or you have enough space and enough dedication to take him on lots of walks to expend his pent-up energy. You have a family or regular company. German Shepherds mimic their owners, and if you are asocial, your dog might turn inwards and become aggressive to other people and pets. You have enough time to dedicate to your dog every day. If you leave him for extended periods every day, your dog will develop separation anxiety. Avoid getting a German Shepherd if you cannot be around him. You are an active person. If you enjoy outdoor activities, like walking or hiking, and love socializing, a German Shepherd will complement your life. More importantly, your new dog will be happier with you. You can afford their monthly expense. Monthly costs for food, treats, vet fees, toys, etc. Prior to this, you have the initial costs of a crate, bed, leash, harness, travel crate, playpen, etc. But if it is, then you will have a lot of fun and a fulfilling experience caring for your GSD. To care for a German Shepherd, you must feed him a highly nutritious diet, exercise him daily for 1. Ongoing training, twice-weekly grooming, and vet check-ups are all part of caring for a GSD. An adult dog needs to be fed twice per day to discourage bloat and ensure proper digestion, whereas a growing puppy will need feeding times a day at regular intervals. Your dog will need 1, to 2, calories per day depending on his weight. If you adopt a senior German Shepherd, he will need only 1, calories at a weight of 90 lbs. However, in most cases, owners looking for a guide to care for a German Shepherd have adopted a younger puppy. This UK study found that one disorder of GSDs recorded by vets included obesity, alongside joint issues and arthritis. I prefer going with breed-specific products made by trusted brands. You can then switch to the adult variety. Do you want to learn all about the best diet for German Shepherds? This is good because it allows you to anchor the command and familiarize your dog with the norm of going outside to go potty. German Shepherds will usually be fully house trained by six months and may only need to pee every hours. It also has the option of single or double doors. An asocial dog is a wolf to our subconscious. Your job is to promote curiosity by encouraging him to follow you around. Have tempting treats just around the corner. Egg him on to follow you by danging attractive playable objects like a tug rope. This is also a good time to start bringing home objects that the puppy is likely to witness outdoors. This builds a bridge of familiarity between the outdoors and the indoors. If you expose him to other humans during this period, including children, he becomes friendly. A German Shepherd exposed to humans at a young age is less anxious and gets treated better as a consequence. Some new dog owners make the mistake of waiting until their puppy is grown enough to go on walks then take them to meet people. By then, the pup has already built an idea of an in-group and sees all strangers as the out-group. You should carry your puppy and get him to experience different sights, sounds, smells, and noises as soon as you get him. Have friends and family pet him before he develops a biting reflex. With enough positive exposure during this stage, your pup will likely see human presence as a good thing. Stage Three: Other Dogs Your friends will want your new puppy to visit. To socialize your German Shepherd with other dogs, you need to reward him for being quiet and calm around them. Before full immunization, carry him to the dog park and let him observe the other dogs. Reward him for good behavior and speak calmly and with praise. Remove him from the situation if he growls or barks, and calm him down. Once he is calm, try again. Sufficiently Exercise Your German Shepherd Young German Shepherds are very energetic, and if they do not get a productive outlet to release their excess energy, they can become destructive. To avoid scratched furniture and chewed-up rugs, you should exercise your GSD sufficiently for his age. An adult dog will need around 2 hours of daily exercise. As a rough guide, a German Shepherd puppy needs 5 minutes of exercise twice a day for every month of age. So, an 8-week-old puppy can exercise for 10 minutes twice daily, while a three-month-old can exercise for 15 minutes twice daily. Follow this rule until the puppy is fully grown. Common mistakes to avoid when exercising the dog are: Taking a dog on walks outside before he is fully vaccinated — A puppy should not be taken out for walks until 2 weeks after the final vaccinations which are usually given between weeks .Letting the German Shepherd jump too early — Exercising a German Shepherd puppy entails being careful not to damage his growth plates. They can safely jump after they are fully grown at 18 months old. Not making exercise fun — If you treat exercise as simply that, your German Shepherd will not have fun. He can pick up on your mood, so you should make exercising enjoyable for you both. Mental exercise is easier to turn into a fun routine. From training a GSD to do party tricks to giving him fun puzzles to solve, there are many fun ways to provide mental stimulation for your German Shepherd. When your dog is bored, he might start bothering you by engaging in destructive attention-seeking behaviors. GSDs are among the smartest dog breeds, with the average dog being as intelligent as a two-year-old human. This puzzle doubles as a treat dispenser, which automates the reward mechanism. What I like about this specific product is that it comes in different levels of difficulty. With levels 1 through 4 produced by the same brand, you can reliably amp up the challenge level as your German Shepherd gets smarter. You can check out this article for some great tips on how to exercise your pup, 7 Fun Ways to Exercise a German Shepherd Puppy. During playtimes, you and your doggo are engaged in low-effort, enjoyable activities. Games are the bridge joining mental and physical exercise to constitute play. Here are some of the games you can play with your German Shepherd: Fetch — This is good for building rapport between you and your dog, improving his response time, and conditioning him for obedience. Hide and Seek — Playing hide and seek with your dog also improves his tracking skills. You train your dog to pick up a scent and follow clues. Tug of war — Playing tug of war with your German Shepherd can be a lot of fun. However, as your dog grows, you might find the game challenging once he is 90 lbs! So, bear this in mind if you play this game with your young pup. Cups and treats — This is a game where cups are turned upside down, and a treat is hidden underneath one cup. You quickly shuffle the cups changing their position, and the GSD gets a treat for pointing out the right one. As a breed, however, German Shepherds often show these other traits: Easily bored if not given something to do, which may lead to barking or chewing Can be rambunctious and rowdy, especially as a younger dog Overprotective of family and territory if not socialized properly Can have an unstable temperament if not bred properly, including excessive barking, hyperactivity, or aggression Suspicious of strangers Prone to a number of health problems She is a faithful companion that can excel at most anything. With early socialization and confident leadership, she is a cheerful and dependable addition to any family. The German Shepherd Dog originated in Germany in .The German Shepherd has consistently been one of the most popular breeds in the United States since the early s with a rise in fame then attributed to canine film stars Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart. GSDs are favored working dogs because of their strength, intelligence, versatility, and obedient natures. The German Shepherd is unmatched in her devotion and courage. She is eager to serve a greater cause with her human companions. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Shepherd. By knowing about health concerns specific to German Shepherd Dogs, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in German Shepherd Dogs to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for German Shepherd Dogs. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your GSD looking and feeling her best. Unfortunately, your German Shepherd is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Infections German Shepherd Dogs are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination , which we will recommend based on her age, the diseases we see in our area, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in German Shepherd Dogs. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms , and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. The Vida Veterinary Care doctors will also recommend preventive medication as necessary to keep her healthy. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Shepherd is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. This means your Shepherd is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off the blood supply to the stomach and sometimes to the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as half an hour. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes up , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Digestive Disorders Several inherited conditions can cause recurring vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss in your Shepherd. These conditions include pancreatic or intestinal disease, food sensitivities, and food allergies. Some of these problems may begin very early in life. To help prevent these conditions, feed only a high-quality pet food we can help you choose the right diet and, most importantly, avoid snacks and table food. The healthcare chart included in this care guide lists the specific digestive disorders your pet may encounter. Bleeding Disorders Your breed is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This is an important test, as we may not know your pet has this disorder until severe bleeding occurs during surgery or after a serious injury. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency The pancreas has two major functions: regulating blood sugar and helping digest food. Digestive enzymes are produced by the exocrine part of the pancreas. GSDs are at an increased risk of having too few digestive enzymes, a disorder called exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. This causes inadequate digestion and absorption of nutrients leading to weight loss; foul-smelling, greasy diarrhea; and a dry and flaky coat due to his inability to absorb dietary fats. Lifelong dietary supplementation of digestive enzymes is an effective therapy. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. The disease is caused when the jelly-like cushion between one or more vertebrae slips or ruptures, causing the disc to press on the spinal cord. If your dog is suddenly unable or unwilling to jump or go up stairs, is reluctant to move around, has a hunched back, cries out, or refuses to eat or go potty, he is likely in severe pain. He may even experience sudden paralysis—he may drag his back feet or be unable to get up or use his back legs. Call us or an emergency clinic immediately! For less severe cases, rest and medication may resolve the problem. And as with so many other diseases, weight control helps reduce the risk of IVDD. You should also provide ramps or steps for your pet from puppyhood on to prevent your dog from stressing his back by jumping on and off of the furniture. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is also sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. And keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! Growing Shepherds can suffer from a painful inflammation of the long bones in the legs called eosinophilic panosteitis, or pano or eo-pan for short. It usually starts around six to ten months of age and shifts from leg to leg. Panosteitis usually causes no permanent damage, but requires pain medication. If your dog has this condition and develops an abnormal gait to compensate for the sore leg s , rehabilitation exercises may be required. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, and German Shepherd Dogs are commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, episodes will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and efficacy. Note the length of the seizure, and call us or an emergency hospital. Heart Disease German Shepherd Dogs are prone to multiple types of heart disease , which can occur both early and later in life. Veterinary dental care and weight control also go a long way in preventing heart disease. Unfortunately, German Shepherd Dogs can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs for concern. Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Shepherds. Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine. Surgery to remove cataracts and restore sight may also be an option. In affected breeds, inflammatory cells infiltrate the cornea the clear part of the eye , which then darkens with exposure to ultraviolet light, and may lead to complete blindness. Doggie sunglasses are also an option to help reduce sun exposure. Cancer Cancer is a leading cause of death in older dogs. Your GSD will likely live longer than many other breeds and therefore is more prone to get cancer in his golden years. Many cancers are curable by surgical removal, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. Early detection is critical! The healthcare chart included in this care guide lists the specific cancers your pet may encounter. This is a common problem in dogs, and your Shepherd is more likely than other dogs to be affected. The condition usually develops slowly, and the early signs are easily missed. Symptoms include drinking and urinating more than normal, increased appetite, and reduced activity level followed later by a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss. Treatment usually includes oral medications and requires close coordination with us to ensure correct dosing. Neurological Disease A genetically linked neurological condition, known as wobbler disease or wobbler syndrome, causes a wobbly, drunken gait in affected pets. Wobbler disease is the result of a narrowing of the vertebrae in the neck that pinches the spinal cord and associated nerves. When pinched, the nerves do not send signals to the brain as they should causing the pet to be unable to feel his feet. The first signs you will often notice with wobbler disease are unstable hind legs, stumbling, and sometimes falling. Treatment options include medications, neck braces, rehabilitation exercise programs, and surgery. It affects GSDs more frequently than other breeds. If your dog has this disease, he will become increasingly weak and disabled in the hind legs, eventually suffering from paralysis in his hindquarters, which also leads to incontinence. Rehabilitation, exercise, acupuncture , and dietary supplements can be helpful, but there is no cure for degenerative myelopathy. A genetic test is available to determine whether your dog is at risk for this heritable disease. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Any breed can be affected, but German Shepherds have an above average incidence. Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars in their bodies and require daily insulin injections. Diabetes is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Well-regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. Anal Gland Problems German Shepherds are prone to a painful, longterm condition in which the area around the anus becomes inflamed or develops sores. Signs include bleeding, constipation, licking of the area, smelly discharge around the rectum, and straining or apparent pain when defecating. This condition can be difficult to treat and requires lifelong medications, prescription food, and sometimes even surgery. Allergies In humans, allergies to pollen, mold, or dust make people sneeze. In dogs, rather than sneezing, allergies make their skin itchy. The feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most commonly affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs of allergies. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for these conditions. Taking Care of Your German Shepherd Dog at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your GSD live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. She needs a thorough brushing at least weekly most of the year. Twice a year she blows her coat and loses crazy amounts of hair; daily brushing is recommended during this time. German Shepherd Dogs generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. She has a high prey drive, so she needs to be leash walked and a fenced yard is a must. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your German Shepherd Dog needs help.
Request Application Application Request Initiating the adoption process can begin by requesting an application. We will send you an application to review and complete. Once you are committed to the adoption process, kindly send the completed application via email so that we can review it! If we feel that we can match your requests, we will then kindly request a deposit to secure a puppy from an upcoming litter. You have now been officially added to the waitlist! All shipping expenses are the responsibility of the purchaser. Hi Tyler, Hope all is well with you and your family. Wanted to provide a little update on Libby. She is a really, really smart and good dog. Great personality and completely adorable. She got the potty bells idea basically immediately and I think has had only two accidents in house or crate in last month or more. She knows her name, come, sit, down as in lay down , shake, stay, wait, okay as release from stay or wait at door when we open the door and no! We start puppy obedience tomorrow evening. My name is Sophie and I was born 1 year ago today. I want to thank you for giving such a great start in life and finding my new Mom and Dad. I love them and they love me. I am happy, healthy, friendly, and playful. I have tried to be a good girl and have learned a lot. Mom and put a bell next to the door and I ring it when I want to go out. I have never messed in my crate and never wake up Mom and at night or in the morning. Still have some things to brush up on. My puppy school trainer said I did very well. Only problem is I am to friendly. Not a bad problem to have, but I have to learn to control myself. I have a nice fenced in yard to play in and love to chase tennis balls and chew on my nylabones. I love to ride in the car with Mom and Dad. Trips to Pet Smart and Lowes are always fun. Tyler, I am doing well and love my new home and my Mom and Dad. Thank you for the great start in life. Things are good here in Delaware. She's just wonderful! We just love her. She's growing by leaps and bounds. Full of energy and kisses. She's now sleeping through the night in her kennel. Whines when she has to go out. It took a little while for our Maltese to warm up to her. Lizzy would sit with her back to her inside and even outside in the yard. It was quite comical. But now they play together and run all over the place. Ellie really loves our son's lab though. They bonded right away. We are very very happy with her. We're off to the vet on Monday and I'll keep you posted. Thank you so much. Don't worry Peanut. We are taking good care of your girl!! The Shakely Family Tyler, We have had our sweet boy for a whole week! It's hard to believe. We are all totally in love, even Cocoa!!! Baxter is doing great.Kennel is ok at night and during day but not when we leave the house. I'm sure he will get used to that! He's met lots of new people, and was the star of our family birthday this past weekend!! So glad we found you guys.Thanks and hope all is well and you are enjoying a much deserved break!! Bailey has been doing great. He was a little bit stressed the first half of the car ride home, but settled down after a while. He is very affectionate and well behaved. He is taking to his crate and has been very good about going outside. He seems very smart, knows his little neighborhood and our house already. He seems right at home. She has truly been a dream dog! Her temperament is amazing! Everyone comments on how "chill" she is for a puppy, but she is also fun and playful too. The best thing about her is that she is so cuddly and always has her head in a lap or is curled up next to someone. She loves other dogs, but is a little shy around people. She reminds me of one of my kids, who was okay with others approaching her as long as I was standing right next to her :. Anyway, I am taking her lots of places and for rides in the car to help socialize her. She has never wet the crate at night and slept thru the night by the third night from 8pm to 7am. She is doing great with crate training and potty training too. She has adjusted to our busy life so well and she is so attached to all five of us. Just wanted to tell you what a great job you did with her and that I am a strong supporter of this breed. For our family's first dog, we couldn't be happier! Hope you and your family are well! Thanks again! The Bacon Family! We named her Rosebud. I just wanted to update you that she passed the Therapy Dog test through Therapy Dog International recently. She is working with children in my office I am a pediatric sub-specialist. It is amazing how much easier my job is with anxious and nervous children when she is around. It seems like when she is visiting with patients she really understands her job and is on her very best behavior! Of course the children at home adore her and she just won second place in the Designer Dog category at our local dog show she won 1st a few years ago. Thanks for such a great dog! Meredith Loveless We get stopped everywhere we go because everyone wants to meet Tucker and is curious about what kind of dog he is. Probably the nicest compliment we have received is from the instructor at our training class. She told us that Tucker has the nicest coat out of any dog she has seen. She could tell that he came from very good breeding stock. Not to mention that they all just love Tucker's personality. And he was the star pupil of his beginner obedience class. We won 4 of 7 competitions at our graduation night and we are already onto the advanced class- which will prepare us for our Good Citizens Test. I will try to send you a picture soon. Tucker is growing quickly- he weighs 24 pounds and he is perfect size. We just love him to pieces and I must say- you gave us exactly the dog we were looking for! Hope all is well with your crew and I will keep in touch. Tucker sends you lots of licks! Jana and Joe Killar My husband and I had been searching for a dog for the family. When my husband came across information on the Australian Labradoodle, we were intrigued. Through her website, we contacted Lori. We told her we were looking for a family dog with a good temperament. Lori was very nice and answered all our questions. She even invited us to meet her adult dogs. Once we met them we knew this was the breed for us. We named our dog True Blue long before he was born. Imagine our surprise when we found out that the puppy Lori had selected for us was marked with a blue ribbon around his neck! I have read that labradoodles are often used as therapy dogs. I can see why.They come by it naturally. We knew our kids were going to love Blue. What we weren't expecting was the effect he would have on my dad. My parents were married 56 years. My mom's passing last year devastated dad and he has spent much of the last year depressed. He is in his 80's and very sedentary, always agreeing he needs to move more but never doing. When we brought Blue home it was nothing short of a miracle. Dad and Blue became fast friends. Dad will walk around the yard with him and throw balls to him. He laughs at all his puppy antics. If Dad is around you can count on Blue sitting under his chair. I've even seen Blue sleeping with his head resting on Dad's shoe and Dad afraid to move for fear of waking him. What started as a search for a family pet has ended with a "true blue" friendship that I know will sustain my dad for years to come! Working with Lori to adopt True Blue has been a very positive experience. So much so that we plan to adopt another. Wonderful dogs - Wonderful breeder. They wonderful people who definitely care about the Labradoodles, and the families that adopt them. Lori was extremely helpful during the entire adoption process; very forthcoming with information and patient with all of the questions we had. Our little Cosmo is weeks old now, and growing very quickly. He is such a lovable and cuddly little boy, who loves to give kisses, enjoys snuggling up to you when he sleeps, loves belly rubs and romping in the grass. Cosmo is so soft! One of the truly best things in life is to come home and be greeted by Cosmo. His whole behind shakes when he wags his tail, because he is just so excited to see you. Cosmo is our ray of sunshine! Happy doodling! She is everything you could desire in a puppy. She is now .Just love her so. Housebreaking is coming.She'll catch on, I am sure as she is so smart in every other respect. Thanks for a great breeding, Lorraine Turanick Mindy's mom Frankie has been, making our lives better, just being around him. Even though he goes to sleep under our bed at first, sometime in the night, We'll feel these two paws, waking us up enough to haul this special "critter" up to our bed. Thank you for Frankie, he is a delight! I did my homework and found the beautiful breed of Labradoodles. We were so drawn to Lori, due to her ethics and values she shares in the breeding process. We were blessed with Izzie May, and the experience has been blissful. Izzie is not only a gorgeous dog but smart, playful and most willing to love you with her unending kisses. Izzie is now 10 weeks old and learning new tricks and commands everyday. She's a puppy who wants to share herself; and through her eyes we appreciate the little things in life we take for granted. Lori has been so helpful and supportive with her tips in bring-up-puppy. What I've learned is patience is truly a virtue, and "think like a toddler". She's a Gift!! The Liscos Elsa Rose is now 17 months old and is our little sunshine. She loves everyone she meets and always has kisses to share. She now weighs 24 pounds and has beautiful, soft curls. She loves to play with her toys but especially loves to go for long walks. I can't imagine life without Elsa, and I'm sure Lori's love and great care along with her family helped to develop Elsa's wonderful personality. Lori has become a dear friend and is one of the kindest people I know. I would never hesitate to recommend one of her puppies. Elsa is definitely a little blessing from heaven! With love, Cathy Beshore We were blessed with a wonderful puppy which we named Scampy. He is a puppy from Flint and Scarlett. My family suffers from asthma and allergies. Once I discovered the Australian Labradoodle I knew that this breed would be perfect for us. The non-shedding coat was a wonderful plus. I came across Lori's web site and she was fantastic about answering any questions that I had. I was pleased with the whole adoption process. Lori was great about keeping everyone updated throughout the whole process. Scampy is the most wonderful dog. He has brought our family so much joy. It feels like we have had him forever. He has become a true member of our family. Scampy has a great disposition and is fantastic with our kids. He has a beautiful fleece coat that is fun to cuddle. He has been learning very quickly. I highly recommend working with Lori in adopting an Australian Labradoodle. Sincerely, Kathi Kaier Jewel has been a wonderful dog. People are always stopping us to ask what kind of dog she is. She loves to catch balls and frisbees, play fetch, and chase our two sons and tackle them. She also loves to take our sons' socks and gloves and make them chase her. She is very affectionate. She even kissed our plumber! She is incredibly graceful and light on her feet. She weighs 26 pounds, and is slim and tall. Just like the boys, she loves to play in the snow. The Yaffe Family Well, this weekend marks one year since we picked up our puppy! We can't believe it has been a year, although those housetraining days seem like a long time ago. We really love Shadow, he is everything we thought a dog would be for our family. The kids love him so much and he makes them smile and laugh everyday! He is the perfect size for us, and the perfect temperament. We look forward to many happy years with our adorable doggie! The Cadigan Family As a proud owner of a labradoodle puppy from Fiona and Flint, our puppy, Colby, is around six months old and simply a joy to own! He joined our family in the beginning of July and right from the beginning was the cutest most lovable dog I have had the honor to own. He is very smart and wants to follow me around and watch everything I do. You can tell that he is really trying to understand everything in the human world. From the vacume cleaner, to the TV which he really watches with us every night! He is my constant companion and is wonderful with our two daughters ages 11 and 8. He is the most cuddly and loving dog I have ever owned and that's saying a lot because I owned two wonderful Labrador retrievers a male and a female who my family and I loved dearly. His coat and size are great because you can hold him in your lap and run your fingers through his amazingly soft coat. People are constantly commenting at how soft he is and he does not shed at all. He was a star pupil at puppy kindergarten which he just finished and honestly was probably the best puppy in the class. I have even signed him up for a puppy agility class where the puppies get to go over little jumps because I know how much he will love it. He was trained on our invisible fence in 4 days and the trainer from the invisible fence company said he was the smartest dog she ever trained. Needless to say we couldn't be happier and feel very lucky that we were able to get one of Lori's very special puppies. Please feel free to email me if you have any questions! Good luck you are in for a fun time with a labradoodle puppy from Lori! We have Flint Jr. My husband saw Flint, who is so kind and gentle and he wanted one just like him. Flint Jr. He is the sweetest dog. He is gentle, loving, and playful. He is also very affectionate. I have 2 boys, 13 yrs old and 10 yrs. Flint jr. He greets them when they get home from school, lies on his back and wants a tummy scratch. I am so thankful we have him. Lisa Blumhard and family Lori exudes the love of her work with Labradoodles. It is obvious that Lori's main concern is for the health and welfare of her dogs and puppies. Our Vet remarked, "Moxie is in excellent health, it is obvious the breeder took excellent care of her puppies. Lori did an outstanding job of matching a puppy with our family. Moxie is exactly the temperament and qualities we were looking for, especially since we plan on include him in our dog therapy work. Carol and Ray Stutzman and family As Lucy approaches her one year birthday we wanted to update you on how wonderful this dog is. We picked Lucy up July 4th weekend last year and I can honestly say she was easy to housebreak. With the crate training and the early training that you gave her, this was perhaps the easiest chore to accomplish. Lucy has a wonderful disposition and she genuinely loves life. She has been very healthy and good natured, in general. Thanks again for breeding our Labradoodle, which has added so much love and enjoyment in our household. We believe that finding the right puppy takes time and consideration. Families are notified of their puppy match at 6 weeks of age point at which the Temperament Testing is confirmed. Female: In our experience, as well as many other doodle breeders, temperament and behavior is not linked to the sex of a doodle. We allocate puppies based on the 3 elements mentioned above. A final pick-up date between week 8 and before week 9 will be arranged at this time. Final payments for puppies are due prior to pick-up. We have used this allocation process since and feel confident that this process will ensure a "goodness of fit". Please visit our Referral section and hear what families have to say about their puppies! Fees and pricing. Our Story Best Labradoodle Rescue in Pennsylvania — Ultimate Guide If you live in Pennsylvania and want to adopt a rescue Labradoodle, then there are several organizations that may be in the perfect position to help. Adopting a rescue dog is highly rewarding. You are giving that dog another opportunity to be loved and to live in a warm and welcoming home. Of course, it is often not their fault that they found themselves in this situation. Showing them that they are loved and the focus of your family is a wonderful thing. Often, it will be a more mature dog, and that means they have already been trained. However, rescue organizations will also work at training any dog that comes into their possession. These dogs have so much love to give to their new families. Adopting Your Labradoodle A Labradoodle is a popular dog when it comes to rescue organizations. This is shown by the short period of time they tend to spend under their care. The Doodle breed in general is very popular. This is due to the way in which they are known to have a wonderful temperament even for their size. They are a real gentle giant, and they make wonderful family dogs. They are great around children, and they are also easy to train. Add in that they do not shed their coats, and you can start to see why they are snapped up as soon as they come into these types of organizations. However, that is not to say that you will not be able to adopt one. In saying that, you also know where you can find a Labradoodle who has found himself in a rescue situation. So, this list of places may be helpful. While they do cover every breed of dog, there are times when a Labradoodle will enter into their organization. Each dog is cared for and their ability to provide full vaccinations is a huge deal when you are looking at a rescue dog. They also microchip each dog that comes into their care. However, all of the costs of this are then included in the adoption fee that comes with taking the dog home. Now, they never know from week to week when a Labradoodle, or any of the Doodle breed, will come through their doors. However, you can contact them to let them know about the breed you are interested in. To adopt from them, you must be over 21, have your own home, or be allowed to own by your landlord. If you do, then they require you to have a note from a vet that lets the rescue organization know that your existing pets are well cared for. This is a great idea. It does mean they can be sure that the dog is going to be going to a family who will love and cherish it for its entire life. Goldendoodle and Labradoodle Rescue In , we received a call that 24 Goldendoodles needed rescue after a nearby breeding operation was closed. We felt the only choice was to step in and help because these dogs were, after all, half our beloved breed. All quickly found homes, and their adopters were thrilled with their new canine family members. Then greater and greater numbers of Doodles began arriving at our door step, and we decided to make Doodles part of our mission as well. There was a need for rescuing these dogs. That was a decision that brought a firestorm of criticism; however, we are not breeding these dogs, simply helping those that are need of new homes. Goldendoodles — a cross between a Golden Retriever and Poodle — are gaining in popularity, and that in turn generates demand that often leads to unscrupulous breeding and overbreeding. Of course, that results in unwanted dogs and the need for rescue. Friendly: Doodles are generally very affectionate with people, kids, and other dogs. Intelligent: Doodles are very intelligent, which may be a reflection of the Poodle genes. Personality: Goldendoodles are typically very silly dogs with crazy, outgoing personalities. A good sense of humor goes along way when bringing a Doodle into your home. Grooming: Like Goldens, do require grooming, including daily brushing to prevent painful knots. Because of so many of the similarities between Goldens and Doodles, it made sense for DVGRR to include these dogs in our rescue efforts.
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. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. However, if you want to meet a breeder, contact them to meet at a different location. Breeders will typically offer private visits at their home to meet puppies. Visit our puppies page to find a puppy to meet. 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 Houston? 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 Houston? 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. Contact Us Welcome to the Katian Kennel! This site was developed to share our love of Goldens. I hope you enjoy your visit, and come back often. For those of you who don't know: "Katian" pronounced "Kay-shun" is a play on Katie and Cajun my late husband's background - he used to say I'm leader of the Katian Nation - Yes, I know.We purchased almost 30 acres and are transforming our new golden retriever paradise. More about us.I recently lost my husband and am very thankful to have so many goldens who love me and occupy my time. When I do work on non-dog tasks, I work mostly from home so I can maximize my time with my canine crew. As the old adage goes, a tired dog is a happy dog.We purchased 30 beautiful acres…. Our new place is just outside of Lexington, Texas less than an hour east of Austin and just a few miles from Giddings, TX. I am truly blessed in that many of my puppies come back to me for training.I love seeing them grow and learn and am so grateful that my extended puppy family trusts us with the next stage in their puppy's life! Our dogs socialize with each other, mind their manners in the house most of the time , have free play in the fenced backyard and supervised free play throughout the rest of our property. They spend their time checking on the ducks in our aviary, the goats in our pasture and trailing all of the deer, rabbits, squirrels and other wildlife who call our property home. The golden crew confidently ride in our vehicles cars, trucks, 4wheelers, boats, kayaks, and our RV. In addition to being well-adjusted family companions, our dogs are duck hunters and competitive athletes. They compete in hunt tests, field trials, obedience and agility - needless to say, we are an active and busy family! My daughter, Katelyn, with one of the pups wooded front yard Angleton We are located on about 30 acres - golden paradise with rolling hills, woods and a beautiful pond! We do not raise our dogs in kennel runs. We have cameras set up so that we can keep a constant eye on our crew when we are tied up with non-dog duties. Security and safety of our furry family is of the utmost importance to us. Katelyn is my life-saver and helps out with the dogs whenever I need her. Between judging assignments and handling my own dogs at competitions most weekends, it is good to know that I have reliable help at home to take care of everything so I can enjoy the dogs off-property. In our pre-Harvey Angleton home, we had a perfect set-up. We are working on developing the perfect set-up at our new place in Lexington.The puppy nursery is almost done and in my home so that I can keep a constant eye on the pups.In Angleton, we had a small swim-by pond as well as a wooded green-tree reservoir for plenty of water training opportunities.Django, Grip, Nacho and Willow are our "launchers" and Gaga, Pebbles and Cica like to swiftly glide into the water - but all of them can't get enough of that wet stuff! Grip, Willow and Django will do laps together for hours if I let them! Whoever says golden retrievers don't like water, needs to stop by and visit! Availability of puppies and conditions of sale are at the sole discretion of the individual breeder. You are not obligated to purchase a puppy from the breeders whose names you obtain from GRCA puppy referral. We have answers. A Houston Golden Retriever price will depend on different variables specific to the breed and the unique dog. For instance, English Golden Retriever puppies Houston could be slightly more expensive since they are not as common. In general, Golden Retriever breeders Houston with the highest level of experience can also be more expensive than breeders with less experience. We will match you with Houston Golden Retriever breeders that take your price range into consideration. We do have breeders and businesses we work with in the Texas area. If you are looking for a Golden Retriever for sale Houston, we will start our search there to find your perfect pup. Do you have purebred Golden Retriever puppies for sale Houston right now? Yes, Golden Retriever puppies Houston are waiting to meet you through our fast and simple MatchMaker process! All you need is a few minutes to take our MatchMaker quiz and you have started the journey to find your newest family member. Uptown Puppies puts the focus on finding the best possible placements for adorable puppies and willing homes. By connecting highly vetted and experienced breeders within our huge network, we are able to make it both quick and stress free knowing that you will get a well cared for puppy that will fit seamlessly into your unique lifestyle. How do you choose breeders to work with? How does this process work? We get to know you through a short questionnaire and match you with breeders and companies within our network based on your responses. 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What Is a Sable German Shepherd? Many people ask about mostly black and reds and do not have too much information on the Sable color German Shepherd Sable German Shepherd is known as the classic German Shepherd, a true German Shepherd color. The sable German Shepherd has always been acknowledged as the quintessential dog because it has a DNA similar to that of a wolf. It also has the dominant gene in the German Shepherd family. The sable is the only color that matches the dog perceived as the first Shepherd dog. The dog can be red or tan with black tips or have black hair over its entire body. Sable German Shepherds are known as one of the smartest family dogs ever. Not just their Sable coat color makes them stand out, but they look adorable and charming as well. Their color is similar to that of a wolf, which helps people to identify them in one go. You can easily see a Sable German Shepherd in the streets of America. After quite a thorough research about this dog breed, we could see that a significant reason for their similar appearance to a wolf is their genetic similarity. Often accompanying police and other officials who do protective work, the DDR German Shepherd is an agile, athletic, and able dog that is willing to go the distance for his owner. Fiercely devoted, highly courageous, and extremely intelligent, the DDR German Shepherd makes an excellent pet for folks looking for a loyal, loving, and protective companion. DDR German Shepherd are best suited for experienced owners. This dog would not fair well with a novice owner. Moreover, if you do not have the time to invest in sufficient training, socializing, and exercising this breed, the DDR German Shepherd is not the right pooch for you. With breeding regulations being more lenient worldwide, it is possible for you to end up with a dog with different and diluted characteristics to the original line. Puppies sold by bad breeders, including puppy mills and backyard breeders, can be brimming with behavioral and health problems. The new bloodline would be able to withstand frigid winter temperatures and excel in military and police work. Many dogs were even abandoned or put down. Some dogs were sold to breed-type enthusiasts to preserve the bloodline. This makes him great for search and rescue missions. DDR German Shepherds can withstand all types of weather conditions and easily traverse most types of terrain, helping them effortlessly locate people who are trapped in rubble after a disaster. If you properly socialize your dog from a young age, he will be a protective and playful playmate for your tots. A highly intelligent dog, the DDR German Shepherd can easily learn basic commands and complicated tricks. Reward-based training methods word best for this breed. Always offer your pet high-value treats and plenty of praise when he does what you ask of him. The Sable German shepherd got its name because sable is its dominant coat color. The main difference between german shepherds and sables is this distinctive coat color difference. Regular german shepherds are more tan and light brown across their bodies. Sables have lighter roots with dark black tips that resemble wolf-like colors. What Are Sable German Shepherds? Sable is a term that is used to describe the color of some German Shepherds. Sable is a color that is commonly used to describe dog breeds but it is used within the art world as well. This means the color of the root of the fur or the fur closer to the body is lighter compared to the end of the fur which is typically black. Most Sable German Shepherds will have a light brown or gray fur at the roots of the fur and then the fur will transition to a black color at the tips of the fur. This term has become popular when describing the color of different dog breeds. Von Stephanitz moved on to breed Horand, fixing his traits and appearance. As the war approached, Von Stephanitz classified Horand as a service dog — and succeeded. Sable German Shepherds Temperament There is no significant difference between a regular german shepherd and a sable shepherd except its coat. German shepherds are loyal, independent, and playful dogs, ideal for patient owners willing to spend the time and energy. German shepherds need to be mentally and physically stimulated to have a long and healthy life — which is why they are widely used as service dogs. If the sable is left alone for too long, they can become quite aggressive out of boredom and frustration. However, shepherds are not naturally aggressive dogs. Dysplasia is a malformation in the joints and is very painful for like-breeds. To prevent hip and elbow dysplasia, ensure your sable gets enough exercise and nutrition throughout its life. After seven years, sables may begin to show symptoms of myelopathy, a degenerative spinal disease. Sable German shepherds are prone to these diseases mainly based on early inbreeding practices. The life expectancy in a healthy Sable German shepherd is a little over ten years old. Exercise Requirements The Sable German shepherd is a high-energy dog, so at least two hours of daily exercise is needed for this breed. Pups cannot run for extended periods until they reach about seven months old. German shepherds are herding animals, so allow them to engage in herding activities such as piling their toys in one area, herding balls, and moving items. Sables are excellent climbers and swimmers, so ensure lots of hikes and lakes are in your near future if you own a German shepherd. The shepherd is a dog that needs lots of space for physical and mental stimulation. Trainability and Intelligence Sables are reward-oriented dogs, so training is at a relatively easy level as long as you know how to train. The Sable German shepherd is perfect for owners who want to learn dog training. The sable will learn fastest and easiest by enforcing positive attitudes, patience, and lots of bonding as they can also be picky with who they choose their master. It is imperative to have them undergo socialization training early on so that there are fewer misunderstandings. They are temperamental, but their intelligence is remarkable and endearing. Food and Nutrition Requirements Large dog breeds need approximately calories a day to stay fit and healthy. As a puppy, your sable shepherd needs to be fed little meals three to four times a day until it reaches adulthood. As an adult, aim to feed your shepherd at least two times a day of high-quality dry kibble. Frequently Asked Questions About Sable German Shepherds Many questions stem from owning a Sable German shepherd, and many owners question whether they should adopt one. Here are some common questions people ask about sables. Their high-energy, playful attitude and easy-training behavior will make any family feel at home. However, German shepherds need a commanding presence around them. How Common is the Sable German shepherd? Compared to other German shepherds, the Sable breed is rare, so a sable puppy is expensive. German shepherds are known for their herding behavior and ability to work and train hard. Due to the pack-leadership and confident characteristic, the Sable German can represent territorial and protective attitudes. Be sure that proper socialization and basic training take place right from puppyhood. Noticed by Von Stephanitz at a dog show is how the Sable German shepherd became known. Over time, the Sable German shepherd has become rare to spot compared to their classic counterparts, but they are not impossible to find. Overall, the German shepherd dog breed makes for fantastic family and house pets and even better-working animals to this day. More on Dog Knowledge:. Lifespan Sociability German Shepherds have long been the first choice as working and service dogs because they are highly devoted, loyal, and courageous animals. They are generally easy to train by experienced owners but need a firm hand and consistent routine to train successfully. While this is possible for novice owners, they will present more of a challenge than some other breeds. Before buying a German Shepherd, you need to take into consideration the massive responsibility of owning one of these animals. They are highly protective of their owners, which can lead to aggressive and territorial behavior at times, and they have a powerful prey drive. These dogs were bred for and have long been a working breed and do best with a specific job to do. It will take a great deal of time, patience, and dedication to look after a dog of this caliber, so you need to understand that a German Shepherd is not the kind of dog that can be left at home alone for long periods. This will quickly lead to destructive and even aggressive behavior. With the power and working history of this breed, good training and socialization are essential with owning a German Shepherd. They are one of the most popular breeds in the United States Behind only the family-friendly Labrador Retriever, the German Shepherd is the second most popular breed in the U. German Shepherds Go By Two Names Most dog owners know them simply as German Shepherds, but their name has changed over the years, and they are still referred to by different names in other countries. Many people confuse the two as different breeds, but they are the same animal. Sable, tan, and black color variations are among the most common and recognizable coats, but other recognized colors include black and red, black and cream, grey, and even blue. German Shepherds are known for being mildly aloof and independent dogs, and this is often mistaken for aggression or unpredictable behavior, but in truth, these dogs are rarely aggressive when trained properly. While they are reserved and aloof toward new faces and do not tend to make friends easily, once they get to know you, they are extremely friendly and loyal animals. They make great family dogs because they are loyal, gentle, and friendly with their owners. They are well known for being highly protective and powerful animals, making them ideal guard dogs, and they are typically only aggressive when provoked or protecting their family. They are supremely intelligent animals that can be trained to do almost any job, leading to their wide use in service and military applications. These dogs thrive off of having a specific job to do, especially with their owners, so they are happiest when close to their human family. Indeed, close companionship is a must with the breed, and they will not do well being left alone for extended periods. They will swiftly become bored and frustrated, and this can lead to destructive behavior and even aggression if left unchecked. If you are away from home frequently, the German Shepherd is not the breed for you. They are generally gentle and affectionate with children, although they may accidentally knock over small kids while playing. Of course, good training and socialization are essential for this powerful breed. Other dogs are not usually an issue, but they will need to be socialized early to get along with the family cat! Make sure that their food has an animal-based protein as the first listed ingredient and that the food is free from filler ingredients like wheat, corn, and soy. We recommend substituting this dry food with canned wet food or lean meats and organ meats to add variety and give an amino acid and protein boost. Large breeds like the German Shepherd Sable are prone to joint issues, so you need to be careful of overfeeding them. Avoid giving them too many treats or table scraps, and give them a diet rich in healthy oils to aid their joint health. This includes agility sports and training, as well as puzzle toys and games. These large dogs will need at least 1—2 hours of intensive exercise every day to prevent boredom and destructive behavior, although more is better. They are great companions if you are an outdoor enthusiast and will adore joining you on runs, hikes, and cycling. They have a natural love for water and will enjoy an occasional swim too. One point to keep in mind is to be careful about over-exercising German Shepherds as puppies. While these dogs are active and agile, during the first year, they are rapidly growing, and too much exercise can be harmful to their skeletal development and may cause joint issues later. While they can be aloof and independently-minded at times, making training difficult for novice owners, they typically love the process, and training this breed is usually relatively easy. They should be trained from a young age, preferably from the day that you bring them home, as this will mitigate any bad habit formation that may potentially occur. Positive reinforcement training methods are highly recommended for this powerful breed, as too much harsh scolding or reprimands may lead to an unresponsive dog at best or aggressive behavior at worst. This method uses praise and rewards for a job well done, and this promotes good behavior in the future rather than punishment for bad behavior. Socialization is an often-overlooked aspect of training but is vital to the success of properly training your dog. Socialization with other dogs from an early age will lead to less distraction while in public places, and your Shepherd will be far more likely to follow commands with other dogs around. Also, we recommend engaging in training sessions after a short exercise session, as your pooch will be less distracted, more attentive, and thus, more likely to learn. Even with daily brushing, there is no way around having a ton of hair around your home, so you may need to invest in a pet vacuum cleaner before bringing one of these pooches home! That said, brushing your Shepherd a minimum of two or three times a week will help a great deal, especially when they are shedding heavily. This will remove any dead hair and keep their coat smooth and healthy. Avoid using human soaps or shampoos, as this can strip their coats of natural oils; stick to water or special pet shampoos. Other than that, they need a toenail trimming once a month or so, depending on their activity levels, and regular teeth brushing will stop any tartar build-up and potential dental issues. Soft, safe chew toys and high-quality kibble can also help keep their teeth plaque-free, but you should still brush their teeth regularly. Most responsible breeders will make sure your dog is free from most of the genetic problems that can affect these dogs before selling them, but of course, there is no real definitive way to avoid some of these issues. Being such a large breed, German Shepherds are prone to joint issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as a progressive degeneration of the spinal cord called degenerative myelopathy. This disease may eventually progress to the point where your dog has trouble walking due to the lameness in their back legs, and unfortunately, most of the time, there is no treatment. Gastric dilatation-volvulus, commonly known as bloat or gastric torsion, is another condition to keep an eye out for. This is common in large breeds with deep chests like the German Shepherd. The condition is caused by dogs eating large meals too quickly, causing a build-up of gas in the stomach, which then twists, cutting off blood flow. The condition is treatable but frequently results in death, as there is not much time to get to the vet. Minor Conditions. Although these dogs look different to other German Shepherds GSD , they carry the same traits and characteristics as other variations of the German Shepherd breed and are known to be very loyal. These dogs are bred to produce the perfect working dog and German Shepherd dogs have gone on to have careers in the military, the police force and as other service dogs. They were first discovered by Von Stephanitz who spotted the German Shepherd at a dog show and decided that this breed was the perfect standard for a working dog. Horand was the first breed standard for the German Shepherd breed and was bred alongside dogs with a similar appearance to give German Shepherd litters. They are thought to have first appeared in the United States in and were recognized by the AKC in .Sable German Shepherds are, however, often more rare than other colors of German Shepherds, which can make them more expensive as puppies. The litter size for these pups will normally be 5 and 9 puppies. These dogs have a domed shape head with a long, square muzzle. They have erect ears and long necks, which sit low when running or prowling. They are a very strong breed and often are said to resemble their wolf ancestors. Coat German Shepherds will have one of two coats, either a medium coat or long coat. They are both double coats, having a more dense guard layer with a softer undercoat which helps to keep them warm when they are out as working dogs. These dogs are known to shed so they may not be the doggie for those with allergies. However, a proper grooming regime, which we will go into more detail about below, is important to reduce the amount of shedding and the amount of cleaning up! Color The sable color of the German Shepherd means that almost all their hairs will have a black tip to them, while the rest of the hair can be a different color. Normally this other color is tan, but there are a range of colors that the GSD can come in. These include white, parti, blue, liver, red and gold. They are extremely loyal and very family orientated. Because they are a working dog, they will believe that their job is to protect you as a family and are known for being alert and watchful, sometimes barking if they feel like they are in danger. Although socialization is important for a dog at any age, proper socialization for a German Shepherd will ensure they can interact with the family properly. Socialization is also important around young people. These dogs are very playful and active and love to be outside getting physical exercise. They also need a lot of mental stimulation as they are very intelligent and do not like to be left alone. If they are left alone for long periods of time they can become bored and begin to exhibit destructive behaviors, so it is important they spend most of their time with people or they are trained correctly to understand what behaviors are desirable. Lifespan The Sable German Shepherd has an average life expectancy of between 9 to 13 years. Many of the problems they are more likely to develop are the same problems that other breeds of German Shepherd deal with. The most common health problem for the German Shepherd dog breed is elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. Dysplasia is a condition that is seen in many large dogs and is a disease of a malformation of the joints. The joints can become very painful and may worsen over time causing lameness. The best way to ensure your pup is less prone to any of these conditions is to buy from a reputable breeder and to ensure you get health clearances from both parents. You should also check your dog often for any signs of these issues and take them to the vet regularly for checkups. Daily Life Now we know all about the traits and characteristics of the Sable German Shepherd, it is time to take a look at what living with one of these dogs on a day to day basis is really like. We will cover their food and diet, their exercise requirements and their grooming needs. It is recommended that you feed them a diet specially formulated for large dog breeds and you should always check the back of the dog food packet to see how much food you should be feeding your doggie based on their weight. Experts recommend that a Sable German Shepherd should be eating 20 calories per lb of body weight a day, which may come to around calories. This is around 3 cups of food. As a puppy, they should be fed three to four times a day. This is particularly important in the larger breeds as they are most predisposed to bloat, where the stomach becomes bloated and twisted and is usually fatal. These three to four meals can then be decreased to two meals a day as an adult. However, if you have a busy lifestyle then this can just be one meal a day. Their food should be healthy and nutritious. It should cover all the nutrients that a dog of this size needs, including proteins, fats and carbohydrates. High-quality dry kibble is a great option, although some dog owners opt to feed their pup raw food. Take a look at the food we recommend below. Contact Us for litters and reservations for litters. The success of Vom Banach K9 dogs out in the world, and the happiness of Vom Banach K9 owners, is due in part to the effort we make to ensure that you have the absolute right puppy for your situation, whatever it is. We literally spend hundreds of hours with our puppies from the moment they are born in our home until the time they are ready to leave for their new home with you. Whether you seek a devoted family pet, or a prospect for SAR, detection, Shutzhund, Police K9, competitive obedience and agility, or nose work, we will help select the right puppy for you. An important part of the process is speaking to you to learn about you and the dog that will best meet your needs and expectations. In advance of that conversation, please fill out the form below and click on Submit when completed. Thanks very much. Vom Banach K9 German Shepherd puppies are happy, healthy, well-socialized and confident. Our German Shepherd puppies are known for their loyalty, affection, eagerness to please, work ethic, and rich dark black sable, sable, and solid black coats. Shipping by air is fast, safe, convenient, and cost-effective. We use only airlines that have demonstrated a solemn commitment to animal travel over the last 26 years. Vom Banach K9 uses only certified airline-approved crates. For information on our current litters please Contact Us. Your browser does not support the video tag. Sep 27, Jul 8, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Are you looking for a dog with all the amazing characteristics of a German shepherd, but you also want something a bit different and special? If so, then why not consider a sable German shepherd? The sable German shepherd is not a crossbreed dog but rather a recognized variation within the breed, so the dog retains all the benefits of a purebred pup. German shepherds are one of the most popular purebred dog breeds in the United States, in part thanks to their intelligence, trainability, and intense loyalty. They are also well-loved for their sleek, noble appearance. Interestingly, sable is actually the original color of the German shepherd breed. It is the only variation of the German shepherd that has the same color as the founding member of the breed. Read on to learn everything you need to know about these attractive, intelligent, and hard-working dogs. Sable German Shepherd Appearance Sable German shepherds look just like most other German shepherd dogs, with the exception of their distinctively colored coat. The German shepherd is a large breed. You can expect the males to reach up to 26 inches tall and weigh between 75 and 95 pounds. The females are a bit smaller. Their heads are domed in shape with a long, square muzzle. They have alert, erect ears and long necks that make them seem even larger than they are. It is considered ideal for the dog to be longer than it is tall with a proportion of 10 to 8. Their bushy tail should extend out in a hook-like shape. German shepherds tend to dip their head low like a wolf when they are running or prowling, which contributes to the consensus that they look very much like the wolf ancestors of dogs. These dogs have double coats with a soft undercoat and a denser guard layer. The guard layer can be either medium or long, though the medium length is significantly more common. Most German shepherds are either tan and black or red and black. The lighter brown shade is usually their principal color, with a black face mask and black markings on their back which often look like a saddle. A variety of other color variations exist, including pure black, pure white, liver, silver, blue, panda, and, of course, sable. Sable basically means the dog has mostly lighter colored hair with a black tips, which can make the dog appear grey or mottled. In reality, the actual color combinations are more varied, and the sable pattern could be any mixture of tan, black, brown, or red. The term is mostly used in the United States. In other countries, such as Germany, these dogs are often just called grey. It has since become a popular working dog for roles such as search and rescue, police, and military due to its strength, trainability, and intelligence. The breed emerged from the s trend to try to standardize dog breeds to assist in certain jobs, such as herding sheep. Max von Stephanitz was a leading thinker in this area and was specifically looking for canine specimens that matched his ideal vision of a working dog. He found that ideal dog at a dog show in .He purchased the dog and named it Horand von Grafrath and founded the Society for German Shepherd Dogs to promote the breed and others like it. Horand, who was in fact a sable-colored German Shepherd, became the center point of a breeding program. Horand himself had 84 puppies, and extensive inbreeding was required to secure the characteristics of the breed. When the German Shepherd was imported to the United States in the early 20th century, it became popular with gangsters and bootleggers for its strength, intelligence, and intimidating appearance. It was also popular in Nazi Germany, and even Adolf Hitler loved the breed. As a result, it has gained a reputation for being a fierce, intimidating, and even dangerous breed. However, this says much more about how the dogs were used than the natural temperament of the dogs themselves. German Shepherd Temperament The color of a German shepherd makes no difference to its temperament, so you can expect a sable German shepherd to conform to the general temperament of the breed. German shepherd dogs are often described as active and self-assured. This, combined with their intelligence and eagerness to learn and please, makes them excellent working dogs. They are also highly obedient and loyal. Their extreme loyalty also extends to family situations. They will raise the alarm with their loud, deep bark if they sense danger. However, German shepherds are not naturally aggressive. This is a reputation that stems from the way that the dog has been used in the past. That said, German shepherds are often associated with severe dog bites. This is largely due to the popularity of the breed and the strength of their bite rather than any innate aggression; there are simply more of them around than many other dog breeds. Tests suggest that German Shepherds have a bite force of over 1, newtons, which is less than a Rottweiler but more than a pit bull. They tend to have a natural suspicion of strangers and like to chase smaller animals. Their intelligence and compliance means they can be trained not to display this behavior, but as an owner, you need to put in the work of training them properly and consistently. German shepherds are a very curious breed in addition to being highly intelligent, which is why they are well suited for search and rescue missions. German Shepherd Energy Level German shepherds are very playful and active dogs, so they need lots of physical exercise and mental stimulation in order to thrive. This is another reason why they often do well as working animals. Working gives them both the physical and mental stimulation to complete these challenging tasks. Pleasing their handlers is also attractive to these highly reward-oriented dogs. Ideally, German shepherds need at least 60 to 90 minutes of exercise every day, preferably spread over at least two different sessions. However, this should be slightly less when they are puppies. There is always a risk of over-exercising puppies, especially when it comes to large dog breeds. As a general rule, you should exercise a puppy daily for five minutes for every month of their age until they are an adult. German shepherds reach adulthood at around 18 months. So, for example, a six month old pup should be getting 30 minutes of exercise a day if we follow this rule, as six months times five minutes comes out to 30 minutes per day. What to know more about exercising your puppy? Read our article: How far can I walk my puppy? German shepherds will love to accompany you on adventures, such as hikes and walks, and they also love swimming. They will do well at the lake, on the beach, or even accompanying you on a boat. However, even though they are excellent swimmers, they should have a doggy life vest if you are out at sea. They will struggle in an apartment, and their large size can make navigating small apartments challenging even for these nimble dogs. Ideally, they should have a backyard where they can move around freely, especially when left at home alone. The intelligence of these dogs means they can get bored quickly. While puzzle toys, such as a Kong , can help on the occasions when you do need to leave them alone, they are likely to become stressed if they are left alone regularly. German Shepherd Health Risks German shepherds have a life expectancy of a little over 10 years. This is normal for dogs of their size, and larger dogs tend to have shorter lifespans than smaller breeds. You should not expect a sable German shepherd to be immune from these, especially since further inbreeding is often required to produce the sable color. It is common for these dogs to develop hip and elbow dysplasia , which is a developmental abnormality of the joints that can restrict movement and cause pain. This is often the result of different elements of the body growing at different speeds. The best way to prevent this is to ensure good nutrition and the right level of exercise during their crucial growing period. Even if the development of hip and elbow dysplasia does not affect the dog at a younger age, it can make them more susceptible to arthritis and other forms of joint pain when they are older. Older German shepherds often benefit from an orthopedic bed to take pressure off their joints. The breed also appears to be predisposed to degenerative myelopathy. This is a degenerative spinal cord disease that generally shows up in older dogs after about the age of seven years. If you are looking for one of these puppies specifically, you may need to go to a breeder. The sable color is relatively rare, and breeders have to control specifically for this kind of coat. As a result, you can expect to pay a bit more for a sable puppy than you would a German shepherd of any other more common colors. Are you thinking of adopting a sable German shepherd, or any German shepherd, into your family? Here are a few questions to ask yourself to determine if you and your home are a good fit for this breed. German shepherds are highly trainable and obedient, which means even first-time owners should be able to take on the challenge of training them. German shepherds need a commanding presence to keep them in check. The sad reality is that many people are also afraid of big dogs like these, and their behavior and response to them can cause serious problems. You need to feel confident to take control of your dog in charged situations. These dogs are also very active, so they will do best if they have a bit of outdoors to call their own that lets them run around a little, dig, and play. Just be sure your yard is properly and securely fenced in! German shepherds are very energetic dogs that need to be active a lot, which means you will need to be active frequently as well. As well as daily exercise, they will want to join you on weekend adventures rather than weekends on the couch catching up on Netflix. German shepherds need to spend a lot of time with their owners, as they need both companionship and intellectual stimulation. Thinking about getting a new puppy? Check out our new puppy checklist. Sable German shepherds have a coat with lighter roots and darker tips covering most of their body. The tips are usually black, which means the dog looks as though it has a greyish color. It is a natural color variation within the breed. How common are sable German shepherds? Sable German shepherds are significantly rare in comparison to the popular tan and black or red and black colors that dominate the breed. This is why a sable puppy will probably cost you more than other color variations. However, pure black German shepherds are a bit more rare. Are sable German shepherds bigger? No, sable German shepherds are not bigger than other German shepherds. The females should weigh between 55 and 75 pounds and the males 75 to 95 pounds. Look at the size of the parents to get a better feel for how big your pup is likely to get. Are German shepherds good family dogs? With the right training and socialization, German shepherds are excellent dogs for an active household. They will be loving, obedient, and protective. They are good around children, though small children should always be supervised around dogs, regardless of the breed and their level of familiarity. Accidents happen, even when children are around dogs they have grown up with and know well. What is bad about German shepherds? German shepherds tend to be suspicious of everyone, which can contribute to overly protective and territorial behavior. Proper socialization can help minimize this personality trait, but they will probably carry an element of this with them for their entire lives. The Verdict Sable German shepherds are not exotic crossbreeds but rather a rare color of the purebred German shepherd dog. They are actually the original color of the breed, matching its famous founding member. Sable-colored German shepherds are actually relatively rare, so they can be expensive to procure. However, aside from their unique color, they are just like other German shepherds, one of the most popular breeds in the United States. They are large and strong dogs with a lot of energy, which makes them well suited to hard work. They are also highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them ideal to train to complete complex tasks such as the roles of military and police dogs despite being originally bred as herders. Overall, sable German shepherds are: Rarer than just about any other color of German shepherd No different than other German shepherds as far as personality, temperament, etc. With the right training and socialization, they are very safe dogs. German shepherds are great dogs for active people who have a lot of time to spend with their pup and want a companion to join them on various active adventures. Do you have experience with sable German shepherd dogs? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Related Article:.
mini labradoodle puppies houston - Even though this dog was bred as a working dog, it is friendly and loyal, making it an excellent choice for breeding to create unique family-oriented crossbreeds. On the other hand, the German Shepherd is known to be courageous, fierce, and protective. Most people keep the German Shepherd as a guard dog, making it an excellent choice for families that need a protective dog. Breeding these two creates a gentle dog to work as a family pet and fierce enough to protect its family when need be. In simpler terms, the crossbreed highlights the best qualities from both parents, creating a unique, valuable dog. However, the two parents have a conclusive background, explaining how the breeds came to be and how their popularity grew. Whippet History The Whippet can be traced back to the s, with its origin believed to be England. This medium-sized dog belongs to the sighthounds family, a descendant of the greyhounds. They are smaller than regular-size greyhounds as not much has changed, even with breeding. Whippets were kept and trained to chase wild rabbits and other small animals. They would hunt these small animals out of their burrows due to their high speeds. Today, Whippets are mostly kept as home pets, but some still use them as working dogs. While their popularity grew in England more than in other parts of the world, they were first recognized by the American Kennel Club in .This followed recognition by the Kennel Club in Egland in .In its earlier days, farmers in Germany and the rest of Europe relied on dogs to protect and guide their herds. Some dogs were great at the job, but no one had developed a district herding breed. In , Captain Max von Stephanitz retired from military life and began breeding dogs. He created a superior German Shepherd dog, thanks to his extensive knowledge of the breeding techniques of the British people. But, he was determined to keep the breed as a working dog, after which he decided to train it for police work. Captain convinced the German government to use the breed with his military connections. This followed the German Shepherd used as a Red Cross dog, rescue, guard, messenger, and supply carrier. Breeding of this dog in the United States was not regulated, which led to a deterioration in the quality of German Shepherd. Whippet German Shepherd Appearance The Whippet German Shepherd mix has a distinct appearance that carries the physical attributes of both parents. The dog can present the skinny body of the Whippet but have the curious face of the German Shepherd. Therefore, Whippet German Shepherd mixes can vary even among siblings, each having its own set of physical traits. Another unique feature of the Whippet German Shepherd mix is the straight back, despite both parents having a curved back. Size The Whippet German Shepherd mix stands at 20 to 25 inches tall. Most dogs of the same age will appear similar in height, taking this standard. The Whippet German Shepherd can weigh between 20 to 96 pounds when it comes to weight. The German Shepherd is considered a medium to large dog and can weigh between 75 to 95 pounds. The Whippet is much smaller and weighs between 15 to 30 pounds. This means the mix can take a size closer to the Whippet or German Shepherd, hence the variation in size. Coat Type and Color The coat type and color of the Whippet German Shepherd depend on the dominant gene from the parents. Your dog can have a coat resembling the Whippet or one closer to the German Shepherd. They come in a medium-length coat prone to shedding, needing regular brushing. If your dog takes after the German Shepherd, it will have an intelligent mind, and you will notice its inquisitive side comes to play. If it takes after the Whippet, it will show the gentle, friendly vibe of a family-oriented dog. It will have a more mellow than curious personality, but you may still notice a few personality traits of the German Shepherd. Both parents are great family dogs and enjoy human interaction and attention. Therefore, the mix does not do well if left alone for a long time. It can generally be an independent dog, but having created relationships in the family, it would be best to give it as much attention as needed. The courageous and curious personality of the German Shepherd may lead to your mix having a stubborn attitude. Training can be challenging, but your dog can pick up on cues and commands with positive reinforcement. Whippet German Shepherd Care Whippet German Shepherd mixes bring so much value; they deserve regular care and maintenance. Feeding The type of food to give your Whippet German Shepherd mix is not cast on stone. Usually, diet is best established on a per-dog basis rather than per breed or size basis. On that note, the right food for your Whippet German Shepherd mix will depend on its health, activity levels, etc. It is important to note that both parents, the Whippet and German Shepherd, were bred as working dogs. Therefore, they have adapted to being high-energy working dogs since time immemorial. That means their diets need to match their energy requirements all through. The best food for your Whippet German Shepherd should provide essential nutrients for optimal growth and development. Additionally, the food should be balanced and packed with adequate energy-giving components to keep your dog active and healthy. You may be inclined to feed large portions many times, but that can increase the risk of your dog developing obesity. If you are unsure of the right foods or potions, the best approach would be to seek help from a certified vet for guidelines on an appropriate diet. Grooming The Whippet German Shepherd mix is a moderate shedder, so you need to brush the coat regularly. If you have your dog indoors, then you would need to invest in a high-quality vacuum to get rid of loose hairs on the floors, furniture, and other surfaces. Your dog may need regular baths depending on how dirty it gets, especially if it plays outside most of the time. A bath once a month is adequate to keep your dog clean. Training The Whippet German Shepherd mix is a pretty intelligent dog. On this note, your dog might have difficulty cooperating with you during training, as they like having the upper hand. The best approach would be to make the sessions short and quick to keep their attention span higher. The dog may be inclined to chase small animals, but the behavior can be tamed if appropriately handled. Like other dogs, your Whippet German Shepherd mix will respond well to positive reinforcement. During training, praise your dog and offer treats whenever it improves or picks up on a cue. Lastly, ensure you socialize your dog to help with behavior. Plan doggy dates with your friends or take your dog to the park to play with other dogs. You could also leave your dog in a doggy daycare to interact with other dogs and people too. Your Whippet German Shepherd dog will need active playtime and walks to stay healthy and happy. This mix is considered a high-energy dog; therefore, long walks, hikes, and park playtimes are advisable. Creating an exercise routine for your dog will help keep destructive behavior at bay, often resulting from built-up energy and lack of socialization. When your dog is tired from exercise, it is likely to behave better and rest better. Some of the health issues your Whippet German Shepherd may suffer from include: Bloating. They can usually be identified by their lean bodies no matter which parent they take after more. There are certain colors that may be present in their coats: Black ; gold Black ; red Sable Their coats will be on the short to medium side and they very rarely shed. This makes them a very easy dog to groom, which is great because these dogs love to play outside in the dirt. More On The Whippet German Shepherd Mix Whippets and German Shepherds have very different personality traits, and a Whippet German Shepherd could take on more traits from one parent or be an equal balance of both personalities. The German Shepard is a very dominant dog, and they are also incredibly smart. They are very courageous and have no problem scaring off anyone that presents a danger. On the other side of the gene pool, the Whippet dog is a lot more mellow. They are one of the least aggressive breeds of dogs and usually love to be around people. These are the dogs that can sit beside their human companions and listen to them chit-chat for hours. A lot of people find having a Whippet dog around very comforting. When listing out the traits that you would like your ideal dog to have, most people will find those both German Shepherds and Whippets present qualities they want. When these two breeds come together to breed, they bring the best of both worlds into one dog. The Whippet German Shepherd mix could have the temperament of either breed, but will likely have traits from both. They are incredibly smart guard dogs that show a lot of courage. The Whippet gene does usually take over and these dogs become loveable family dogs. However, one trait that many Whippet German Shepherd mixes carry from the German Shepherd side is nipping. This is because the German Shepard was originally bred for herding. They may start to nip when they are trying to get your attention. This is because the German Shepherd dog is full of energy and the Whippet is known for how speedy they are. Ideally, you should give a Whippet German Shepard mix at least 40 minutes of exercise each day. The best way to do this is to break it up into two separate sessions. They love a game that challenges their mind as well as their agility. They love a good game of fetch or tug-of-war. Switching up the games will keep them happy while staying healthy. Since they are a gentler breed, they can easily be entertained by playing with kids. Most Whippet German Shepherd mixes enjoy the company of kids. Whippet German Shepherd Mix: Training While these dogs are very well-behaved, they do have some bad habits such as nipping that should be corrected. Training should be started as early as possible with Whippet German Shepherd mix dogs. This will help curb some of the aggressive traits that they inherited from the German Shepherd. When you start training and socialising with these dogs when they are puppies, then they will likely be very obedient dogs. This will help ensure that your dog behaves in an affectionate manner, without taking their guard dog instincts away from them. The thing about Whippet German Shepherd mixes is that they are at their happiest when they have a task to do. You should always encourage them to exercise their physical and mental capabilities to the fullest. This goes back to the instincts of the Whippet dog because they were originally bred to chase rabbits and fish them out of their burrows. Once a Whippet German Shepherd mix is socialised and well adapted to their surroundings, they will be very loyal to their owners. What makes this dog perfect for most families is that they have the gentle nature of a Whippet and are very affectionate to those they love. However, they still hold the protective traits of a German Shepherd. You will need to make sure you begin training these dogs early to make sure they are on their best behavior. When you put the time into these dogs, they will easily become a part of the family. They are one of the most loyal types of dogs and enjoy being surrounded by people they love. Other Popular Posts. They are typically around 21 to 22 inches tall and weigh approximately 60 to 65 pounds. Coat The Whippet — German Shepherd mix can take on a number of appearances depending on the parent it takes after. Grooming While Whippets are short-coated with smooth hair, GSDs typically have medium-to-long hair with dense undercoats. The offspring of these two breeds could don either of the two coat types. The difficulty of grooming a GSD — Whippet cross would depend on what type of coat they inherit. If they take after the GSD, they will need more frequent baths and brushing. They will also shed throughout the year and blow their coats twice a year. On the other hand, their short coats will need very little maintenance if they take after the Whippet. Strength The Whippet might seem small and lanky, but its body is actually composed of lean muscle. Apart from body strength, these crosses can also inherit the considerable bite strength of their GSD parent. German Shepherds have an average bite force of psi. They are also incredibly agile. Nevertheless, they perform best in sprints with long rests in between. Generally, they thrive best when they get several vigorous exercise sessions per day. Three minute sessions of fetch or regular long walks should be enough. Exercise requirements can vary between each individual dog. Trainability Whippets are not as easily trained as German Shepherds. While GSDs are among the smartest and most obedient dog breeds, Whippets are more self-willed and not as intelligent. In fact, while GSDs rank as the 3rd most intelligent dog breed, Whippets rank at .Nevertheless, given ample time to form a strong bond and with enough determination from its handler, a Whippet — German Shepherd cross can be quite eager to please and can learn fairly quickly. These dogs can be affectionate with family and are patient with young children. With early socialization and proper introduction, they also get along with cats and other pets. Although the GSD — Whippet mix can be quite wary of strangers, they can become playful and sociable with guests once welcomed by the rest of the family. Nevertheless, they can still inherit the strong protective tendencies of their German Shepherd parent. Health The German Shepherd — Whippet mix is generally a healthy cross. They could, however, be just as prone to life-threatening bloat. However, this can be avoided through proper screening of breeding stock and keeping the dog at a normal weight. Additionally, these dogs can sometimes suffer from eye disorders and deafness. In fact, they typically live between 12 and 15 years. Ensuring proper nutrition and keeping them at a healthy weight could further contribute to their longevity. Because it is a cross between two purebreds, it does not have breed standards that can be used for conformation events. Through this program, both purebreds and mixed breeds come together and take part in events like Tracking, Obedience, and Rally. These crossbreeds are undeniably extraordinary dogs with many positively unique characteristics. However, most breeders prefer to keep their pedigrees pure not only because purebreds are more profitable but also because there are too many uncontrollable variables when trying to produce crosses. For these reasons, finding the offspring of a Whippet and a German Shepherd would be difficult. These rare crossbreeds are typically the result of accidental mating. They thrive best when they have a job to do and have access to some open space. If you believe you can meet their mental and physical needs, a Whippet-GSD would definitely be a wonderful companion. If you found this crossbreed fascinating, you might also be interested in the larger GSD-Greyhound mix. Or, check out how the German Shepherd mixes with several other breeds of all sizes. Many of the characteristics that pass on to mixed breed puppies can be dominated by one of the parents only. Consequently, a Whippet German Shepherd mix will likely be a medium to large dog. Whippets and German Shepherds are muscular dogs, but where the Whippet is lean, the Shepherd is stockier. Perhaps a mix of the two breeds will be somewhere in between. German Shepherds have a double coat of thick outer fur covering a soft undercoat, where Whippets have a single coat. German Whippets then will tend to have a thicker coat than its whippet parent that will require regular grooming. Join over others who've subscribed to my newsletter! No spam guarantee - I only send 1 newsletter each week. German Shepherds can also be coloured black, red and sable and these colours may also pass on to a mix. Purebred Whippets too have a range of coloration, such as brown, black, blue and white. They can also have a combination of colours as well as a variety of markings. Hence the colours of and markings of German Whippets might be equally varied. They can be a little highly strung given their strong prey drive, just like other members of the sighthound family. Additionally, German Shepherds are intelligent, loyal, fearless and confident. They might also be very protective of their homes, as German Shepherds are. As with all dog breeds, German Whippets will benefit from early training, especially if you have you have children. Both Whippets and German Shepherds are know to be great family dogs, but puppy and obedience training will be essential to curb undesirable behaviours. Find out about how to socialise Whippets. Others disagree and suggest that unregulated designer dog breeding results in a greater chance that mixed breeds will be prone to more illness rather than less. Tia is a very special dog as for the frist 7 months of her life she was mistreated very badly. She was not let outside, had things thrown at her, way underfed and probably a lot of other things I don't know about or haven't worked out by her reactions. My partner and I have had Tia for a couple of months after Mandi, a lovely lady, rescued her from this terrible home but then could no longer keep her as she has such a bad back. When Mandi first got Tia, she was happy about leaving her old home behind but did not have a clue about right or wrong. She would mess inside, wouldn't walk on the lead and was scared of everything. Mandi did a brilliant job of housebreaking Tia, and used a crate. For 3 months Tia lived with a proper family. Because Tia pulled so much on the lead, Mandi had to find her another home. This was heartbreaking for her and her children. Mandi said she chose my advert from a site called Preloved because all I was looking for was another dog who needed a loving home as a companion for Shep. As we do not have children, I have lots of love, kisses and cuddles to give. We met Tia on a Saturday and she hit it off with me and Shep first time. Sunday we went back and brought her home and I have not regretted it! She is a bit of a handful, but given her first home, I feel lucky to have such a caring dog. She is as affectionate as Shep, and they love nothing more than playing together. I have taught Tia her left and right back and front paws, to look left and right at the road, to stop at the road, roll over, jump, dance, and also to talk. She does this at all hours! Shep knows all of these tricks too so you can imagine the fun.But I wouldn't change either of them for anyone! Tia has really come out of her shell, jumping and playing. I am slowly training Tia to heel, and although she is very clever in learning harder tricks, heeling is the hardest thing to teach her. She is still scared of things, some are silly like cups or cushions, or flies, but I think with all the love my partner and I can give her, she will become as settled as Shep is. They are both more like humans than dogs, and they love nothing better than to cuddle up in bed. I would like to ask that if people are looking for a new dog, to take in a rescued dog. They are a lot of hard work and need alot of patience, but everyone deserves a second chance. In the rescue centers they normally teach the dogs basic tricks. I've gone for the hard way, but I've learned so much that I would even think of doing it again once I move to a bigger house :.
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mini labradoodle puppies houston - The correct amount depends on their age, size and any advice given to you by your vet. Try starting with a tablespoon of food about five times a day while your puppy is still feeding from mum. Here is a guideline for how many times a day a puppy should eat: From starting to offer food to weaning usually two months - meals a day. From two to three months - 4 meals a day. From four to six months - meals a day. Over six months - 2 meals a day depending on breed. If you do need to change their food, take your time to give their tummy time to adjust. Mix a little of their new food into the old one, gradually adding more and more over the course of days until your puppy is just eating the new food. If you switch from a wet puppy food to a dry food, your puppy may take some time to adjust. They will chew it more actively, may take longer to eat and will certainly require more water. Following our advice on how to feed your puppy should mean that you have a happy and healthy dog with plenty of energy to play with! These treats can even help their teeth stay clean. Serve wet puppy food at room temperature so it smells attractive. Avoid foods such as raw meat and bones, and make sure your puppy never eats chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, or raisins, as these are all toxic to dogs. If possible, feed your puppy the same food as they did before you brought them home. This will help minimise any possible upset tummies. A happy and healthy pup needs both nutrition and a fair share of puppy exercise. Make sure your first months together go by as smoothly as possible with our useful puppy guides. Discover how you can help them become a friendly companion and what to do when your puppy experiences a bout of separation anxiety. Explore our puppy food:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. As we all know too well, what we put in our belly has a huge impact on our health, vitality, length and quality of life. They have to strike a fine balance between getting enough nutrients to grow and avoiding an over-abundance that can lead to abnormal growth and disabling conditions. In this article you will learn precisely how to feed your puppy. What they can eat, what they should not, how many times you should feed them each day, basic information on home-made diets and the pros and cons of various commercial dog foods. The majority of Labrador owners feed their puppy kibble. Kibble is ground meal, shaped into dried biscuit-like pellets that are extremely convenient to buy, store and feed, providing everything a puppy needs in one easy to handle product. All the major brands carry a range of kibble and many are specifically formulated to suit the precise needs of puppies. For our recommendations of the best puppy food for labs, please read our article on: The Best Food for Labrador Puppies. Good breeders will supply you with all the information you need to feed your new puppy and you should follow this advice. Puppies almost always get upset tummies during a change of diet. The stress of moving to a new home is enough to deal with without them potentially having tummy upset on top. So try to avoid this. But expect your puppy to get diarrhea after such a sudden change. What Can Puppies Eat? With a bewildering choice of different puppy foods available, what to feed your puppy may not be the easiest decision to make. You Can Feed Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is ground up food, formed into pellets and dried for easy storage and convenience. It is a specially formulated, complete and balanced diet, containing everything a puppy needs to grow and be healthy. Many people believe kibble is the best way to feed a puppy, with it being so easy to buy, store and feed while containing every nutrient a puppy needs in the right proportions. Wet, Complete Puppy Foods Are An Option As the name suggests, complete wet dog food is complete and balanced, meaning nothing should be fed in combination. Everything needed is included in this one food. Complete wet foods come in individual pouches or tins with one pouch or tin containing one single serving. In the main these foods are low in nutrition, contain a high amount of cheap fillers, by-products and water and need mixing with a biscuit to give them some substance and to make them more complete. Because the food is such low quality, you have to feed a lot of it. And what goes in, must come out. This type of feeding was popular decades ago and I do remember my parents feeding our first dogs this way, but most people have moved on from this and are feeding their dogs in better ways now. Raw Food, BARF And Home-Made Diets Raw feeding is a diet that consists of mostly raw meat, edible bones and animal organs, though most practitioners also mix in small portions of fruit, veg and selected other foodstuffs. There are many people feel strongly that this is the best possible way to feed a dog. But I would caution most people that to feed this diet successfully, you need to do A LOT of research, gain a lot of knowledge and truly understand a dogs nutritional needs to make sure they get exactly what they need in the right amounts. Many people wonder if they can feed their puppy human foods, anything found in the fridge or larder. Furthermore, there are many human foods that are toxic to dogs that you should avoid at all costs. Too much of some nutrients can be bad in itself, but also prevent the absorption and use of other nutrients too. So supplementing a balanced diet is a bad thing to do. Can You Give Puppies Milk? Assuming you get your puppy at the recommended 8 weeks, they will have been fully weaned before you bring them home. Many puppies are intolerant of cows milk and drinking it leads to an upset tummy and diarrhea so you would do best to avoid giving your puppy any milk at all. One exception is for very young puppies under 6 weeks of age. When we have newborn puppies at our house we sometimes need to supplement and use Esbilac Milk Supplemen t. However, if you have a very young puppy that you think may need supplementing please first consult with your veterinarian. Are They Necessary? You will likely be feeding your puppy a commercially available complete and balanced dog food, in which case you certainly should not supplement their food. Supplementing this will mean too much of one or more things, making it unbalanced which can actually lead to harm. But an excess amount of calcium in the diet of a Lab puppy can lead to skeletal development problems. So adding a calcium supplement to an already complete diet can actually do more harm than good. There may also be times your vet advises you to do so. But if feeding raw, you should know more about nutrition than I do. This is a hard question to answer and sadly I cannot give you a definite quantity or weight to feed them each day. Puppies grow at different rates, some are more active than others and there can be large differences between metabolisms too. However… The biggest determining factor is how concentrated the nutrients and calories are in the brand of food you feed them. High quality foods are nutrient rich and give a puppy all they need from quite small amounts of food. But cheaper brands are full of low quality and nutritionally empty fillers that mean a puppy needs considerably more to get what they need. Start by feeding your puppy according to the guidelines on the label of the puppy food you buy for them. Then see how their body develops. Puppies should not be fat! But at the other end of the scale if they start to look and feel a little slim, up their portion sizes a little. The guidelines on the food you buy are just that…guidelines. You might also be interested in:. To determine whether it has enough complex carbohydrates, you can check the ingredients for peas, beans, whole grains, and vegetables. There are specialised ranges of food for senior dogs who are beginning to exercise less and show signs of aging, like their metabolism slowing down for example. These foods are formulated to help maintain weight and provide nutrients to aid them throughout the process of aging. The best food for Labrador seniors will include: Glucosamine and chondroitin to promote joint repair and mobility. Seaweed oil that contains DHA Docosahexenoic Acid to support a healthy brain, vision and nervous system. The best food for labrador puppies is specifically made for younger dogs. Ideally, puppy food should: Be hypoallergenic. Contain calcium and phosphorus to support healthy bone and teeth growth. We recommend that you feed your puppy hypoallergenic food to begin with: this makes it really easy to identify if your Labrador has a food allergy. Labrador Feeding Guide How much your Labrador should be fed depends on their age and level of activity. This Labrador food chart can help you work out where your pet fits in and whether you need to adjust their portion sizes. This is when you should begin to gradually change their portion sizes according to our labrador food chart. Once a dog hits adulthood, they need less calories to support their growth. We advise you break up the portion into two or three feedings per day - most owners find morning and evening easiest to fit into their schedules. As puppies grow so rapidly, this uses up loads of energy. Because of this, their calorie intake should be higher than adults. After nine months, you should gradually switch to the adult portions. Feeding them all their food in just one or two portions could result in a stomach ache or diarrhea. Even some vegetables , which are so beneficial for humans, can have adverse effects. Some allergies that dogs suffer from are types of protein and carbohydrates such as wheat, wheat gluten, dairy, pork, beef and soya. These types of allergies can provoke a wide range of symptoms from itching and skin problems to upset stomachs and diarrhea. Hypoallergenic dog foods are specifically formulated to prevent these symptoms and are suitable for all dog breeds, including Labradors. Labrador Obesity Sometimes more a walking dustbin than a dog, Labradors are known to have an insatiable appetite. Foods with a high percentage of protein are more effective at keeping your pet full and putting a stop to their overeating habits. Generally speaking, Labradors should have around 1 hour of exercise per day, and for the more laid back and relaxed pups, just 45 minutes. For the more energetic dogs, 1. At Lovejoys, we aim to provide you with all the right information so that you feel confident about caring for the four-legged member of your family. Happy feeding! It helps to boost their immune system and strengthen their joints. Which can lead to weight gain issues in them. It has been observed that Labradors are prone to obesity. If he weighs around kg, then grams of food daily is more than enough, with kcal per day. Note:- Follow our Labrador puppy feeding guide UK, it will help you to keep a track record of food and calorie ratio. In one of our feeding blogs, we have covered: The Cockapoo puppy feeding guide! Adult Labrador Feeding Proportion In his puppy stage, you used to feed him four times a day, right? Well, when your Lab reaches adolescent age, you need to stop feeding him so frequently. You need to cut down that frequency to twice a day. Moreover, you need to switch from puppy-formulated food to adult Labrador food. Because as their weight, age, and activity level increase, their nutrient requirements also vary. We have prepared an adult Labrador feeding chart , which will help you to feed him the correct amount of food. An adult Labrador with high activity will need more food than one with less activity. For instance, your adult Lab, whose weight is around .On the other hand, if he is not an active one then you need to feed, him kcal per day. It is suggested to go for high-quality food that is specially formulated for larger breeds. In this way, you will prevent him from getting affected by any joint issues or other severe health problems, which normally large breeds encounter if they rapidly grow. Senior Labrador Feeding Proportion At the age of 7, your Labrador turns to seniority, where his activity level and appetite decrease slowly. This is because, with age, their body becomes less immune and infected with several health issues. His health, eating habits, and weight, all vary with time. You just cannot feed him the same ratio which you used to give in the adult stage. Now, his body requires different nutrients at different proportion levels. For your better reference, we have prepared a PDF of the senior Labrador feeding chart , which is bifurcated into weight. This will surely help you in feeding him correctly. For example, if your senior Lab whose weight is around .In such a scenario, it is suggested to feed grams of food daily with a total calorie intake ratio of kcal per day. On the other hand, if your oldie Lab is not an active one, then it is suggested to cut down the calorie ratio. Because without any physical activities, and exercises, his metabolism will not work effectively. And how the feeding ratio varies as per their life stage, weight, and activity level. Before following the Labrador feeding guide UK. So, you can select the appropriate dog food for your Lab, as per his health. And feed him the correct amount of food. Nutrients Guidelines Well, checking the nutrient list is one of the essential factors, upon which the feeding schedule is based. Mostly, Labradors are too sensitive, and allergic to grains. Many commercial dog food includes grains, peas, lentils, and other ingredients that are not good for his health. Especially, those who are allergic to grains should not be fed grain food. It can lead to severe health issues in the future. Virbac Movoflex, Synovi Chews, Dasuquin, Cosequin, and Flexadin are some examples of joint supplements that have gone through clinical trials and been proven effective. Meat Protein. Number of meals per day 4 2 What is the best puppy food for a Labrador Retriever? When looking for the most suitable puppy food for your Labrador Retriever puppy, 3 factors need to be considered. First, it should be specifically designed for medium-to-large dog breed puppies. Ideally, it must be loaded with proteins and have low preservatives and additives content. Third, think about your budget. Expensive brands of puppy food are often seen as the healthiest choices. It is often used to justify the high price of puppy food. So, avoid dwelling on whether you should get a pricey premium brand of puppy food or not. Keeping these factors in mind, you can start finding the best puppy food for your Labrador Retriever puppy. Working with the vet is a good idea to narrow down your choices efficiently. However, there are many crucial things that you have to keep in mind to ensure that your pup has a healthy and balanced diet. Follow a fixed feeding portion in every meal. A growing Labrador pup needs supplements and adequate nutrition. This is why young ones should be provided with more meals per day than a regular mature dog. Feed a small Labrador Retriever puppy at least 4 meals a day before reaching 4 months of age. He should be 6 months or older before he can take two meals a day. Having a strict feeding schedule is believed to increase appetite and promote digestion in dogs. Apart from that, it encourages them to develop good eating habits. Avoid free-feeding your Labrador Retriever puppy. Free-feeding your Labrador pup is arguably the easiest feeding method. However, making food available at all times puts him at a higher risk of obesity. Research shows that when Lab pups gain too much weight, they are more likely to experience bone and joint problems. Allowing your Lab puppy to gorge on food any time of the day also makes him very vulnerable to dog bloat. It is a fatal condition that commonly affects large dog breeds such as the Labrador Retriever. Bloat in the Labrador breed causes the stomach to twist and accumulate food, liquid, or gas , making it distended. It can kill a dog within an hour if left untreated. Keep your Labrador puppy safe from these health problems by sticking to a fixed feeding schedule. Provide Lab puppies with cooked meat rather than raw during puppyhood. A Labrador Retriever puppy can eat meat products as long as they are cooked properly. Experts warn dog owners that raw meat, especially those that are not fresh, is likely to contain dangerous bacteria. These include E. Since his immune system has not completely developed yet, it cannot protect him from these bacteria. For this reason, feeding raw meat to Lab pups is extremely discouraged. A Labrador Retriever can be fed raw meat during adulthood. However, remember to introduce the new food gradually to avoid stomach problems. However, during summer, pups are encouraged to eat frozen treats. For the rest of the time, the best dog food is served warm. Fresh water should be accessible at all times. Always provide your Labrador puppy with fresh water. The water bowl should not be too full that it could be easily knocked over. Giving tap water to your Labrador is not advisable, according to several experts. A good rule of thumb is that if you do not feel safe drinking the tap water yourself, do not give it to your little dog. Chose a heavy-based water bowl to avoid having it knocked over by your clumsy pup. Lab puppies from 2—6 months should get enough calcium supplements. The Labrador Retriever is a medium-to-large dog when fully grown. His growth rate tends to be faster, which then results in a higher requirement for calcium. That being said, Lab owners have to pay attention to calcium intake, especially at the ages of 2—6 months. Nutrition helps pups develop healthy skin and coat. Ensure that your Labrador is getting enough nutrients to support his growing body. Experts suggest feeding him fresh vegetables such as carrots every week. This helps him keep his hair soft and glossy. Prioritise making vet appointments for vaccinations and deworming. Puppies of any breed, including the Labrador, should be vaccinated and dewormed at the right age, which is about one week after weaning. These procedures will help build physical resistance against parasites. It is important to establish discipline in the early stages. Obesity in dogs is one of the common diseases amongst domestic dogs. Lab puppies eat more when they eat together with their siblings, according to research. If your new Labrador Retriever puppy has a low appetite, this might be because it is his first time feeding without his brother and sisters. That said, call the vet for advice if your Labrador puppy refuses to eat for more than 4 hours. You may need to contact them sooner if he shows symptoms of illness such as vomiting , restlessness, lethargy, or diarrhoea. He possesses the willingness to please his owners as well. These are excellent traits that make the breed easy to train. Below are a few useful pointers to make training easier and stress-free for you and your Labrador Retriever puppy. Train a calm Labrador Retriever puppy. The beautiful Labrador Retriever is generally active and upbeat. A Lab puppy is no different. He is brimming with energy, which can hinder him from focusing during training. Allow your Labrador puppy to run around your backyard or play with him for at least 5 minutes. However, avoid overexercising him. Or else, he will be too tired and would rather sleep than participate in training. Find a quiet place to train your Labrador Retriever puppy. A Lab puppy has a short attention span. He gets easily distracted by noises, smells, and moving objects. When training him for the first time, it is best to do so in a quiet room. This way, his focus is solely fixed on you. As your Labrador Retriever puppy learns how to focus more during training, you can change to a room with a little more noise. Once he can successfully obey your vocal and visual training commands, you start training him outside. It can be in your back garden or a quiet park. Keep training sessions short. As mentioned, the Labrador Retriever puppy has a low attention span. It is not a good idea to train him for long periods. This will only cause stress for both you and your pup. Train him for about 2—3 minutes. Some Labrador owners recommend training a puppy during commercial breaks. Implementing harsh punishments are a big no-no. Training a Labrador Retriever puppy also involves discipline. However, it is not an excuse to use forceful or painful punishments. Understand that a Lab puppy is normally full of curiosity and is bound to get easily distracted. Never hit your Labrador puppy as it can cause him to be fearful of you and weaken your bond with him. Shouting and yelling is not recommended too, because a Lab puppy has sensitive hearing. Then proceed to correct his behaviour. Use positive reinforcement and rewards-based training. The Labrador Retriever is a very food-motivated dog, just like the Golden Retriever. He loves receiving love and attention from his owners as well. You can use these traits to your advantage by incorporating positive reinforcement dog training. You may also like: Breed Comparison: Labrador vs Golden Retriever If your Labrador Retriever puppy successfully carries out a command, reward him with a delicious treat. Giving him praises and cuddles work too. Soon enough, your pup will be even more motivated to take part in the training. Train your Labrador Retriever puppy before mealtime. This will encourage him to work hard to earn more tasty treats. However, keep in mind that the treats should be given in small quantities as a Lab puppy easily becomes overweight. Reduce the amount of food during mealtimes after giving treats. Set proper expectations. A Labrador Retriever puppy takes time to learn a command. So, avoid giving him hard tasks as it will only make it difficult and time-consuming for him to carry out. This also takes the fun out of training and may discourage you and your Labrador pup from trying harder. So, give your Lab puppy easy commands instead and train him consistently. Training a Labrador is a slow process but a fulfilling one if executed properly. There will be times when your Labrador Retriever puppy is disinterested, no matter how you motivate him. Then you can try training him again after a few hours. Who knows, after successful basic training, your pup can also be trained for field trials. Please leave this field empty. How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies. The source of protein matters when considering a high-quality diet. FATS The rest of the diet should be made up of fats, carbs, and vitamins. Labs need to have a correct protein -to-fat ratio, where protein takes the lead. Dogs tend to convert fat into glucose, so this is an important source of energy. Dogs rely mostly on protein and fats, but carbs are necessary. That said, a low carb diet is best for puppies. However, you still need the right percentage of carbs, since this gives your dog the sensation of being full. These include starches, fibers, and sugars. Try to opt for more complex carbs like starchy grain and veggies because these are easier to digest. Your Lab puppy will thrive when his or her diet includes: Vitamin B12 especially during puppy development , Vitamins A and E, C, Vitamin D, phosphorus, and calcium, Potassium Each of these required vitamins and minerals contributes to a healthy, happy, and energetic puppy. They also help offset issues like obesity. Vitamins A and E are important because they help your dog burn calories and promote eye and skin health. Vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus, on the other hand, are part of a trifecta that works to strengthen teeth and bones. Potassium is a heart health-preserver. Labs with poor genetics are especially prone to orthopedic issues. Osteoarthritis and hip dysplasia are common health problems for this breed. Glucosamine, an amino-sugar, together with chondroitin sulfate, helps replace and support naturally degrading cartilage during old age. Recently,"grain-free" foods are being championed as a preferred and even high-quality form of dog food. That's, not the whole story. An investigation launched by the FDA revealed that there are potential links between a form of canine heart disease and grain-free foods. So far, researchers have provided an update to this researchers have provided an update to this research staring that the issue may not just be grain-free diets. Grain-free may be part of other trends knows as "BEG"- boutique companies. Puppy diets don't' need to be complicated. They also don't need to include ingredients that humans might enjoy. Enjoyment doesn't necessarily bring any nutritional value to your puppy's development. Keep it simple, using the guidelines for fats, proteins, and carbs above and don't shy away from food with grains in them. It's not their presence that's a problem it's often the ratio. There shouldn't be more carbs or grains than protein. Nor does including only legumes, seeds, lentils, or chickpeas as the primary ingredients make the food more superior. It's perfectly healthy to include complex carb sources like starchy rice and other grains. Grain-free isn't and shouldn't be a qualifying factor for your choice in puppy food. Feeding Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is dried, pelleted food that stores well is easy to eat, and is pre-formulated with everything your puppy needs to thrive and grow in his early developmental months. There are plenty of popular brands that don't measure up to the Snowy Pines standard. That's why it's so vital for you to learn how to read puppy food labels. Puppies should stick with "puppy stage" food, while adults should stick to bags marked "adults. Instead, your dog should have regular bowel movements, allowing them to absorb all the nutrients available. You should also keep in mind that caloric intake is calculated a little differently for puppies. Kibble diets are measured by how many calories the proteins, fats, and carbs represent for each gram. For puppies, this should be 3. Sticking to these ratios will help ensure your kibble choice is a healthy one. It's also important to note that kibble calories are often higher when compared to wet food. If it's high-quality wet food, it won't have as much fat to preserve it, which means fewer calories. You may have to supplement with dry food, especially if you're trying to keep the calories of carbs, proteins, and fats in the right per-gram ratio.