pedigree french bulldog puppies

Both sire and dam of our pups have their health clearances. Usually these health clearances go deep into the pedigree with grandparents, great-grandparents, etc. However, this still is not a guarantee as many health issues are not created by a simple recessive gene and the fact that the parents are not affected does not prohibit them from still producing the occasional problem. At this time, the closest thing we have to an absolute is the Optigen test for Progressive Retinal Atrophy which is .This is the one disease we feel we are truly protected from. How are your puppies raised? Our pups begin their lives in our homes, and therefore are used to all the noises of a household. Later, as they get older, they begin to go outside during the day, weather permitting, and coming back into the house with their mother at night. Eventually they will be outside day and night, usually just before they are going to their new homes. Will my puppy be vaccinated and microchipped? We give all vaccination information to you when you pick up your pup so you can take it to your vet. Will my puppy be AKC Registered? We sell all of our pet puppies on an AKC Limited registration. This means they are AKC registered dogs which cannot be used for breeding and cannot be shown in conformation shows or field trials. They can, however, be shown in obedience, agility, rally, tracking, retriever hunting trials, service dogs, and other performance events and can earn titles. If they are bred, AKC will not give a registration to the resulting puppies. What happens when I bring my puppy home? We ask that you take your puppy to a vet for a physical exam within 48 hours of receiving it. If there is anything wrong with the pup that causes you to feel you cannot keep the puppy, you may return it within 24 hours of the diagnosis with a letter from the examining Veterinarian, for a full return of your puppy price. We will not be responsible for any unauthorized vet bills. When can my puppy come home? Puppies begin going to new homes after they turn 8 weeks old. Do you offer returns or a home if I can't keep a dog purchased from you? We will take back one of our dogs at any time in its life for any reason, and in fact, we want to be your first phone call if for any reason you can no longer keep your dog. We will take the dog back and if we can resell it, will do so and then return your purchase price. Sometimes the dog might be middle aged or older and cannot be resold and in that case you would not get your purchase price returned, and we would probably keep the dog for the rest of its life as one of our house dogs. Our main goal is to know where our dogs are and that they are in good, happy homes where they are part of the family. Do you have a waiting list? Yes, we have a waiting list. We start a puppy waiting list when we know that we either have a pregnant female or actually have puppies. Our puppies are sold on a first come, first serve basis. How do we choose our puppy? Our process for letting the pups go to their new homes is to critique or grade the litter at 6 to 8 wks of age and at that time they are vaccinated and microchips are assigned. We keep a record of notes on our evaluation of the pups. If we can we make a choice at that time regarding which are show quality pups and which are companion dogs, we will call the pet buyers and let them know what is available. If we cannot make a decision, we will look at the pups again at 8 wks of age. Once our decision is made, we notify the new puppy buyers and have them set an appointment to pick up their new baby. Can I have the first pick puppy? When we breed a litter we are breeding for ourselves and will keep as many puppies as we deem necessary to continue with our breeding program on this particular pedigree. While we always choose first, it doesn't mean that the puppies that are left aren't perfect for you. Many times, you won't notice the difference between our keepers and your beautiful puppy. Our choices are usually made by splitting hairs. After we make our choices, our puppies are sold on a first come, first serve basis from our waiting list. What about Pet Health Insurance? Please as us about Trupanion medical insurance for pets. We highly recommended you have some kind of health insurance for your new puppy. All our puppy can go home with 30 days of free health insurance if your let us know your interested and want to sign up for it. Do you offer support throughout the lifetime of our new dog? We are happy to guide you throughout the dogs life with answers to your questions and help you in anyway we can. Our goal is, first and foremost, to produce dogs that are physically and temperamentally sound, and in turn, to give them the best life possible. Welcome to the Family When you purchase a Labrador from us, we welcome you into the Hylakes family. We will support you and your new addition for the puppy's life. We love to hear from you and get photo updates. I have loved dogs all my life, but my love and appreciation of Labrador Retrievers started with the addition of our chocolate Labrador, Ben, to my family in .I love the temperament, beauty, trainability, and versatility of this great family companion breed. There is no mystery as to why the Labrador Retriever has been the number one AKC Registered dog in America for many years, this breed is my passion! My breeding goals are to to improve upon the health and conformation of my own dogs, and to preserve the bloodlines, working ability, and the temperament already present in the Labrador Retriever. I registered my kennel name with the AKC in after satisfying the requirements to do so. I am equally proud of them all. I breed litters primarily for myself and I reserve the right to pick my puppy s until at least 8 weeks of age. These puppies will be the future of my show and breeding program, although I will have puppies available to highly qualified, pre-screened homes. We do not ship puppies sight unseen, no exceptions. Puppies placed in pet homes will come with AKC Limited Registration and must be spayed or neutered at the appropriate time. We reserve the right to refuse to sell a puppy to any individual s at anytime, for any reason, at our discretion. My dogs are considered full fledged family members and spend the majority of their time in the house with us, and make excellent couch and foot warmers. Please make yourself at home, and contact me with any questions you have! Kenya Labradors breeds the best, so YOU will live with the best. Kenya Labradors is solely dedicated to "breeding excellence" in order to offer you the most outstanding family pets and champions of conformation, hunting, agility, and obedience. We specialize in English-type chocolate and black Labs of exceptional quality and brilliance. See our website for photographs, pedigrees, and information! Why Labradors? Our home is on 20 acres in the gorgeous Santa Margarita Valley on California's central coast. With all this land, we could have chosen ANY breed of dog.Why did we choose Labradors? We chose to love, train, breed, and show only English-type Labrador Retrievers because we believe no other dog will suffice. These fabulous dogs fulfill our every criterion for the perfect canine companion. They are magnificently built for stamina and agility. They are off-the-charts bright and eager to please — loving, easy to train, and full of personality. Kenya Labradors are filled to the brim with SO MUCH love, devotion and intelligence — sure to become an important member of your family. It was an easy choice for us. We started with one dog, as many people do. Read our story. Now we strive to produce the best quality Labs possible, specializing in chocolate and black colors with the English-type conformation. Kenya Labradors are beautiful, bold looking dogs, and especially athletic. They love to swim, play catch, and retrieve, but can just as easily kick back to watch movies with you. Our Labs are super friendly "people dogs", good with young children and the elderly, and for announcing to welcome visitors. That's a BIG title and with good reason! It is also one of the most popular assistance dog breeds in Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, United States, and many other countries, as well as being widely used by police and other official bodies for their intelligence and desire to please. Please contact us for a phone appointment. We don't post our phone number here because we are often outside with our dogs, and paying proper attention to numerous phone calls became quite a challenge. Establishing a first contact by email allows us to agree upon time where you will receive our full attention. We appreciate your understanding on this. Simply click on "contact us" or fill out the quick form — at the bottom of every page. Unless we are at a dog show or hunt trial, we will get back to you typically within the day. We look forward to meeting you! Sorry, we do not ship. Kenya Labradors does not sell puppies via the Internet or to pet dealers. You must be physically present to purchase a Lab puppy from us. We also do not cross-breed Labs to make designer dogs. We breed amazing English Labradors and take great pride in doing that one thing well. Come and see for yourself. You just might fall in love! Santa Margarita, CA .Here at Kentfield Kennels we are firmly committed to breeding the traditional English Style Labrador Retriever that will become your best friend, a loving family member, hunting companion, service dog, or will be out there competing in one of the many events you can enjoy with your dog. What we wish to produce is a substantial, medium sized dog with a good bone structure, strong muscles, a broad head and muzzle with wide set eyes that have a kind expression. A great double coat to keep out the cold and that thick traditional otter tail that is carried straight and flat from the body is our goal in each breeding. We want our females to weigh approximately lbs, and our males to weigh around lbs. All of our puppies are registered with the American Kennel Club, micro-chipped and enrolled in the AKC ReUnite program before they go into a new family home. What makes us different The Labrador Retriever is a loving, affectionate and patient dog. They are highly intelligent, quick to learn, lively, good-natured and love to play, especially in the water! We wish to breed into our dogs the excellent, reliable temperament that is sociable, friendly, loyal and above all else, great with children and other pets. You are among an elite group whose love for dogs is unwavering; and it carries through in all you do as a breeder and dog owner. The AKC is proud to have you represent the largest, and most respected registry in the world! The program gives AKC a new way to engage, encourage and recognize ALL breeders who meet specific health testing standards and who participate in continuing education.

Conclusion Training Treats vs Snacks Some treats are snacks, some snacks are treats. But how can you tell the difference between snacks and treats? The answer lies in HOW your dog thinks. Understanding how your dog processes things can help you figure out if the treat is a snack or a training treat. Knowing this will allow you to use treats more effectively while training and giving your dog a healthier diet. There are a lot of opinions on whether to give your pug training treats or snacks. The most important thing to remember is that treats should only be given in small amounts. This will help Pugs to focus on the task at hand. When it comes to treats, you want your pug to learn that good behavior is always rewarded. Dog treats will act as a great motivation to encourage them to keep performing the desired behavior. But, a snack is a general term used to describe any form of food or drink that your dog may enjoy. There are plenty of healthy snacks you can give your pug, like pieces of fruit or vegetables. Just be careful not to overdo it, because too many treats will quickly lead to weight gain. And can also provide a little bit of mental stimulation. Yogurt Drops: Another great source of calcium for your pug is yogurt drops. They make a tasty snack and are easy to chew. This is important for keeping their bones healthy and preventing joint problems down the road. Freeze-dried Liver: This is a healthy and nutritious treat that your pug will love. It is a great source of protein and vitamins, and it will help keep your pug healthy and strong. The liver is a good source of vitamin A, iron, and other important nutrients. Freeze-liver is also a protein-rich substance. All these nutrients make the liver an excellent choice for a healthy and nutritious treat for your pug. Green Beans: These are healthy and crunchy snacks that your pug will love. Green beans are a good source of vitamins A, C and K, as well as dietary fiber. Carrots: Another healthy and crunchy option, carrots make a great snack for pugs. They are a good source of Vitamin A, which is important for healthy eyesight, and also contain fiber, potassium, and other nutrients. Like most vegetables, carrots are also low in calories, making them a healthy choice for overweight pugs. Peanut Butter: This is a classic treat that pugs love. Just make sure to give it in moderation, as it can be high in calories. However, with the right type of treat, you can use them as a way to help train your pug and reinforce good behavior. Homemade Treats for Your Pug If you love cooking and pugs, or if you adore your canine companion. And want to try a new treat for them, this is the perfect recipe for you. Making a Pug Treat is very simple. These treats are great for rewarding good behavior or as a training treat for your pug. The best Pug puppy treats are typically homemade. There are many recipes that are simple, healthy, and will make your pup delighted. One of the simplest Pug puppy treat recipes is a mixture of boiled chicken, rice, and some vegetables. The chicken can be substituted with other meats or fish if desired. This recipe is low calorie, high in protein, and a good source of vitamins and minerals. Another great Pug puppy treat recipe is a simple mixture of peanut butter and oatmeal. Look no further than your own pantry. Your kitchen covers all the elements necessary to prepare delicious home-style treats. Using one of the many treats for pugs recipes offered. One of the key benefits of homemade treats for pugs is that when you use your own ingredients to cook homestyle dog treats. You can know for certain that unlike commercially made treats for pugs with their high quantities of fats and sugar. You are giving your Pug a treat that is delightful as well as being good for your pet as it contains a fraction of the important nutrients your Pug needs. They also do not have any artificial food colorings, other preservatives, or added sugar. They are also free from dangerous chemicals and additives when they are made in your own kitchen using fresh ingredients. The absence of all these things helps to make the treats both healthier and safer for your pug to chomp. One important reason you may want to make your dog some treats is to build up and develop the bond between the two of you. Again, this is a case of positive reinforcement. If you give your Pug a treat, he will feel loved and cared for. And he will thus be happier and more affectionate. Making your own treats for pugs at home can be exciting and save you money. Homemade treats for pugs are better for your Pug. Here are some simple recipes with items you already have at home. Best Snacks for a Pug Overview Just as much thought should go into what you give your Pug for snacks and treats as it does in regard to main meals. When you look at the overall nutritional needs for this breed, as well as the importance of steering clear of additives that can cause allergic reactions, upset stomach and other issues, and weight gain being a common issue for adult Pugs, what you offer for snacks and treats will play a huge role in your Pug's overall health and well-being. This section will cover if snacks are really required, how often they should be given, the difference between snacks and training treats, how to get the most benefits from these, and some healthy and delicious options. Already know the details of why, how many, and how often and just want recommendations? Jump to: The Best Snacks for a Pug. You may be wondering if it's just fine to only give your Pug 2 or 3 meals per day without anything extra and if it's really necessary for a Pug to have any snacks or additional treats. And, if your Pug is on a diet to control their weight, this may be particularly relevant. The short answer is yes, most Pugs can benefit from both snacks and training treats, including those on a weight maintenance plan. Let's look at the advantages of each of these: Snacks: Snacks help satiate a dog's appetite in between meals. Without these, a Pug can end up so hungry at meal time that he eats much too fast. Rapid ingestion of food is linked to gastric dilatation volvulus commonly referred to as bloat which is a dangerous and often fatal twisting of the stomach. It takes about 15 to 20 minutes for the brain to realize that the stomach is full. If a Pug is so hungry that he wolfs down his food, he may want to keep eating even after he's had enough. If a dog's stomach is empty for too long of a time, churning stomach bile can cause an upset stomach, as well as cause vomiting of the bile often appears as a white or yellow foam-type substance. Training treats: The 1 method of teaching a dog what is right and what is wrong is to reward good behavior. While praise and petting play a role, a tasty tidbit of food is the most effective way to offer rewards. Giving a Pug reward treats can greatly boost your success for housebreaking, command training, efforts to stop barking, jumping up, or chewing on non-toy objects, and works well for the reinforcement of good behavior such as socializing with other dogs or with people. So, as you can see, giving snacks and treats to your Pug is important. The key is to find a good balance, only offering these tidbits at the right times, in the right quantities, and to stick with very healthy options. Frequency: Most Pugs do best with a total of 3 snacks per day. This can be any combination of snacks, though dental treats are typically reserved to just one per day. One snack is given between breakfast and lunch, one given between lunch and dinner, and one given one to two hours after dinner. If there is another certain time of the day that your Pug gets really hungry but it's not time for a meal, a 4th can be given. Serving sizes: One hard chew, 2 to 3 medium-sized biscuits, a small handful of bite-size biscuits, or one dental treat. Training Treats - These are moist or chewy small treats. Frequency: When any sort of training is beginning, reward is often given to mark each correct behavior. For example, each time a Pug goes to the bathroom in the designated area or each time a Pug obeys the 'sit' command. In some cases, once training is underway and a Pug is getting the hang of things, reward can be given more sporadically. For example, once commands are understood, praise should be given each time a Pug obeys but reward in the form of a treat can be given every 5th or 6th time. For every behavior that your Pug displays that pleases you, even well-learned actions like sitting nicely while you place a harness on or heeling beside you while being walked, randomly offer reward and praise to show your Pug that you appreciate their actions. Serving size: These are designed to be very small to offer just a tiny burst of flavor so that appetite is not affected by multiple rewards. Only one or two small training treats should be given each time you wish to mark good behavior. The Difference Between Dog Snacks and Dog Training Treats While technically you can give one in place of the other, there are a few main differences: Snacks, meant be given to a Pug in between meals should be dry. This is the best consistency to calm down the stomach and keep away hunger pains. These may be labeled as treats or chews often along with the words crunchy or dry, or you may see the terms cookie, cracker, or biscuit. These are often large enough that a dog has to chew at least a few times before swallowing it down. This also includes hard chews meant to be gnawed on for a while for either teething puppies or Pugs that see chewing as an enjoyable hobby. Training treats, meant to be given to a Pug during training and to mark good behavior should be moist. This is the best consistency to quickly deliver the message that a dog did a great job. These may be labeled as treats, training treats, chews, or training chews and you will usually see the terms moist, soft, or chewy. These are typically very small; they are designed to offer a quick burst of flavor while not having much of an impact on a dog's appetite. Snacks to Avoid Giving a Pug Before we dive into the best options for snacks to give to a Pug, there are 3 types that should be avoided: 1. This pose a risk to all just about every dog breed. Most are made from the inner layers of cow or horse hides and then artificially flavored. Dangers of these types of snacks include choking, contamination of E. Pig ears. The shards from these dry brittle snacks can cause tooth breakage and cause injury to the throat. Once swallowed, improperly chewed pig ears can cause blockage to the intestinal tract. Real animal bones. It is not safe to give a Pug real bones from ham, chicken, turkey, duck, beef roast or any other meat. Cooked bones are the biggest danger, though raw bones can cause problems as well. Cooked bones become very brittle and can crack into sharp splinters that pierce the mouth, throat, stomach, or intestinal tract causing choking, blockage or internal injury. Raw bones are a bit safer but still pose risks including splinters and over consumption of marrow that can lead to diarrhea and flare ups for dogs prone to pancreatitis. The Best Snacks for a Pug Avoid: Whenever you are giving your Pug any sort of food, it is just as important to be aware of which ingredients need to be avoided as it is to what is being offered. Ingredients to steer clear of include: Synthetic preservatives. And, as we covered, these should be dry not moist. Recommended: 1. There are so many awesome flavors including those with yogurt or a beef base, and this one is a variety pack that pairs pumpkin with apple, banana, blueberry, and cranberry. It's a great way to give a Pug different flavors, each is only 9 calories, and these are made in the USA. Bandit's Biscuits All-Natural Cookies. These have no corn, wheat, or soy, have just 10 calories per cookie, and are made in the USA. This is a fantastic option for helping a Pug stay happy until the next meal. These are dry baked biscuits made in North America the US and Canada with lots of yummy flavors to choose from. Note that some of these recipes have flour or some grains but there is also a grain-free option if you prefer that for your Pug. The small size works for most adult Pugs and mini size is best for most Pug puppies. Though 'rawhide' is in the name, that is just their way of letting you know that these chews are a great alternative to real rawhides which as we covered are dangerous for dogs that like to chew. These are designed for small and medium sized breeds, like the Pug, and literally have just one ingredient: healthy sweet potatoes. These are good for a dog's teeth, which is always a plus and these are made in the USA. The Best Training Treats for a Pug Avoid: Just like snacks, training treats should not have synthetic preservatives, artificial coloring or flavoring, soy, corn, high levels of wheat, by-products, generic meats or oils, or be made overseas particularly China. Since these are meant to offer just a small yet powerful burst of flavor to mark good behavior and help with training, avoid anything that is large enough that your Pug has to chew more than just a few times. Look for: Treats that use a vitamin blend as a preservative mixed tocopherols. These should have a strong flavor that dogs see as high-value including meats like bacon, lamb, and bison and sweet fruits like watermelon, apple, and berries. Fruitables Skinny Minis. Though all the entire line of Fruitables are pretty low in calories, the ones in this line have just 2 or 3 calories per treat which make these a great choice for adult Pugs that need an eye kept on their weight and are the perfect chewy consistency for giving rewards. These are all-natural and are made in the USA. Wellness does a fantastic job with both kibble and treats; there is no grain, soy, corn, by-products, or other additives and all are preserved with vitamins. And, these are made in the USA. These little square training treats are ideal because you can break these in half if you're doing a session that involves lots of action rewards, like heeling or working on a command or offer one square for one-time action rewards like house training. Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Treats. There is no corn, soy, or wheat, these are made in the USA, and a citrus and vitamin blend is used as a natural preservative. Giving Fruits and Vegetables as Snacks There are some crunchy vegetables and soft fruits that you can give to a Pug, if you wish. Veggies - Not every dog will be thrilled to be given plain veggies, but some do like to chew on raw baby carrots which are good for the teeth. Other vegetables that a Pug can eat include peas, green beans, potato, sweet potato, spinach, and kale, but these are best mixed into meals. Fruits - Many fruits have good levels of fiber that cause natural sugar to be absorbed slowly, so fruit can be given in moderation. Fruits that Pugs can eat include pear, banana, blueberries, raspberries, and mango. On hot summer days , berries can first be frozen which can make a nice, cool treat. And Don't Forget About Dental Treats Taking good care of your Pug's teeth is a vital part of care and dental chews are edible so these should be looked at as necessary snacks. One of the most preventable issues that happens to dogs is dental decay and periodontal disease. Just like humans, plaque is constantly being produced. If it is not removed, it starts to harden into tartar in as little as 3 days. Plaque and tartar both form hard coatings on the teeth, often moving below the gum line, and eating away at enamel. Decay develops and this is a silent destruction that can lead to infections and tooth loss. You can help prevent this by performing at home dental care of your Pug's teeth via brushing them or using a spray and by offering a daily dental chew. This will take the place of one of your Pug's regular snacks that is given in between meals or as an after dinner snack. Note that some dental chews are very tasty so a dog will accept these as they do any other yummy treat. Also please note that these have a very hard texture they must, to do their job and for that reason a dog should be supervised when chewing on these. The teenie size is for dogs 5 to 15 lbs. If your Pug is over 25 lbs. Did you find this article to be helpful? This huge, comprehensive book is available in both hard copy soft cover and PDF ebook. Want to stay informed? Become a free PetPugDog Membe r to receive newsletters that announce new articles and updates. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Email Offering high value treats for your pug should be foremost on your mind if you want to raise it to be healthy. It is your responsibility as a pug parent to know just the right food to give noting the fact that this breed has weight issues. While it may sound lovely to prepare your own dog treat, time can be cruel on your side. Source: pugingtonpost. These treats are also low in calories and fat. Because they are quite filling, it makes them consume less but get the most of what they need leading to a more controlled weight. After scouring Amazon for the best pug treats, here are the top 3 bestselling ones. High quality made in the USA, this bag offers nothing but high quality proteins from single animal source, easily digestible carbs, and Omega 3 and Omega 6 for topnotch health. It also contains ZERO corn, wheat, soy, dairy or eggs, and no chicken or beef to prevent triggering allergies in your pug. For safety and authenticity, always order from Amazon. To feed your pug, it is best to consult your veterinarian. For healthy meaty eats. .This high value pug treat is recommended as training aid making them the best choice when potty training or doing skills training for your pug pup. Made with percent pure USA-sourced and made beef liver, it is dried raw or freeze-dried to ensure locking in the aroma and freshness leaving a smooth texture pugs love to eat. Low on calories and fat, this is truly heaven for pug parents who want nothing but the best for their pup without making them overweight. The Purebites Beef Liver Dog Treats are highly recommended also for pugs and other dog breeds with health issues like obesity, diabetes, allergies, and GI disorders. No wonder new pug owners reviews often give this one two thumbs up. Available in Amazon in various pack sizes—4. Each pack comes in resealable bags to preserve taste and freshness. Another flavorful choice from Purebites is its Cheddar Cheese dog treats. .Instead of meaty liver, this one is made from percent pure USA-sourced and made cheddar cheese to ensure quality. Aside from its pug snout-friendly size and design, it is freeze-dried raw to encapsulate wholly the aroma, freshness and texture. High in calcium but low in fat and calories, this also makes a great choice for pugs with weigh issues, GI problems, diabetes, and allergies. Reviews and feedback from pug parents have also hailed this flavorful PureBites Cheddar Cheese Dog Treats as one of that most pugs love. To order, feel free to choose from two budget-friendly sizes—in single or 2-pack .Order from Amazon to ensure authenticity, shipping and, of course, discounts. Feed Them Right! Source: petpugdog. If you want to raise healthy and disease-free pets, choose any of these high value treats for your pug. You can diversify the flavors in doing so but make sure to stick to either of these brands — Blue Buffalo Basics or Purebites—to ensure quality ingredients and content. When buying, the best and safest route is still with Amazon. So, order now and do it in bulk to save more. Flank Steak Lamb While you can try wild game, like self-hunted bison, deer, and other wild animals, it is best to freeze the meat first. You want to kill any bacteria on the meat before giving it to your dog, such as E. Manufactured Treats You can purchase pre-made manufactured treats from the store. However, be careful when you try out a treat. Try to stay with natural, healthy selections with minimal ingredients. Also, if your pug has allergies, you need to be aware of any potential irritants. Some ingredients to watch for are: High sugar High sugar or fructose Synthetic, cooked, or raw bones Because of the increasing awareness about popular dog treat ingredients, companies are starting to recalculate their angle for marketing. Even if a brand claims to have all natural ingredients, always take a look at the contents before you trust it. Homemade Treats Homemade treats are typically healthier, but they do require prepping. You can get some really nifty ideas online for recipes. These will involve less ingredients and more nutrition than processed treats. Plus, you are in full control over what goes into the creation process. Some ideas you could try for a snack include: Homemade dog biscuits Vegan, gluten-free, or organic treats Frozen pureed fruit cubes You can bake, freeze, or tailor-make your pet snacks just the way they like. Certain kinds of readily available treats are absolutely no good for your pug—or any dog, for that matter. While some of these treats have remained popular despite being unhealthy, you should avoid these treats at all costs. Sugar-Filled Treats Treats chalked full of sugar can lead to obesity, addiction, and dental issues. If they continue to ingest too much sugar over a long period, it can lead to more serious problems like liver failure and diabetes. Pig Ears Pig ears are very tough, and they can break into sharp bits—posing as a choking hazard. Pig ears are also a breeding ground for nasty bacteria. Artificial Additives When treats are filled with artificial dyes, preservatives, and flavoring. If your pug is sensitive to an ingredient in the treat, it could cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. It can also trigger allergic reactions and prove toxic. Raw or Cooked Bones You may think that raw or cooked bones are a healthy alternative snack for your pug. However, raw bones can harbor lots of bacteria leading to gastrointestinal upset. Cooked bones can split apart and cause choking or damage to the throat, stomach, and intestines. But human food is a bad habit to get started that leads to poor health. Real chicken is the number one ingredient here, which is something you want to keep an eye on when you purchase treats. This selection has .You can break these little meatballs up to get the most out of them if you prefer. I break one in half for Sid to reward him for a job well done and save the other half for later. If your pug has food sensitivities, you may want to steer away from this one. Chicken can be a trigger for allergies in some pugs. Everyone likes treats, including your adorable Pug. Carefully chosen health treats are not only great for the overall health and well-being of your pup. These also come in handy during training sessions. The 10 best treats for pugs is what you need and we got it. Dogs often listen to commands better when they know that something yummy is waiting for them. Treats are even more important for breeds that are stubborn to train, such as Pugs. Thus, as a Pug owner, it is important to know what treats will be safe and healthy for your dog so you can teach these flat-faced cuties some tricks and good manners. Here are the 10 best treats for Pugs that you can add to your to-buy list: 10 of the Best Treats for Pugs 1. This is one of the most popular brands you can find in the market today. The brand developed the Basic Skin and Stomach Care line. These treats are packed with high-quality proteins from a single animal source. These are also rich in omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids and easy-to-digest carbs to promote better health. The formulation is also free from eggs, dairy, soy, wheat, or corn. Beef or chicken are also not included in these treats to avoid unwanted allergy triggers in your adorable pup. These treats are available in an exciting hodgepodge of exciting flavors. These include grain-free potato and duck, potato and turkey, potato and lamb, and more. Fruitables Skinny Minis Even though Fruitables is best known for its entire line of treats with low-calorie content, the Skinny Minis collection only contains 2 to 3 calories per treat. It makes them a great option for your adult Pug that needs to keep a close eye on his weight. These treats also have a delightful; chewy consistency that makes them perfect as rewards for your small pups. Fruitables Skinny Minis is a variety pack that includes pumpkin and mango, pumpkin and berry, and apple and bacon. These choices are all-natural and made in the USA. The snacks are delectable treats for pooches made from top-quality ingredients. These include beef hide and real chicken meat. The flavors of these treats are hard to resist and something Pugs will always crave for. The gourmet treats are made even better by their funny shapes that make chewing them long-lasting fun. The freshness of these meaty bites is maintained thanks to the sealable bag they come in. These are hands-free tasty treats that will keep the mouth of your pup clear of plaque, tartar, and bacteria. The Veterinary Oral Health Council has given its approval to these treats, which means you can be assured of the safety of your pooch. These blueberry-flavored treats are also rich in nutrients that encourage easy digestion. Take note, however, that these treats are not wheat-free. It means these may cause issues for dogs with gluten concerns. Buddy Butter Dog Treat Dog owners know that peanut butter should never be given to any dog breed. Peanut butter scientifically contains Xylitol, a type of alcohol unsafe for canine consumption. But with Buddy Butter, you can have peace of mind knowing that the treats come from safe peanut butter. Your Pug will definitely love the nutty taste of these treats. This is basically peanut butter for dogs which they will love. Each piece has 27 kcal. The small meatballs can be broken down into tinier pieces so you can make the most out of these treats. However, you might want to avoid these treats if your Pug suffers from food sensitivities. Chicken happens to be one of the common triggers for allergies in some dogs. These high-value treats for Pugs can be used for training, including potty training and skill training. It is either freeze-dried or raw to help lock in the freshness and aroma that creates a smooth texture that pugs love. The treats are low in fat and calories, making them a heaven-sent for Pug owners who want to reward their dogs without compromising their weight. PureBites treats are also recommended for Pugs and other breeds with health concerns such as allergies, gastrointestinal disorders, obesity, and diabetes. In addition to the design and size that are perfect for the snouts of your Pug, the treats are freeze-dried raw to maintain the texture, aroma, and freshness of every piece. Low in calories and fat and high in calcium, these treats are great options for dogs with allergies, GI issues, weight problems, and diabetes. Wellness Training Rewards Wellness never fails to do an amazing job with its treats and kibble. Everything is also preserved with vitamins and made in the USA. Wellness Training Rewards come in the form of small square training treats that you can break in half. It makes these treats perfect for training sessions that involve numerous action rewards such as working on commands or heeling. You can also give your Pug one square treat as a reward for one-time actions such as house training. There are several delicious treats you can choose from including lamb and salmon, chicken and lamb, beef and turkey, and turkey and duck. Every piece only contains 3 calories and is available in various flavors that most dogs love. These include chicken, rabbit, duck, salmon, peanut butter, and oats. A vitamin and citrus blend is also used as a natural preservative. The treats come in small bits, which means you can use them depending on how you deem fit while training. These are also safe and soft enough for both puppies and seniors. These are absolutely one of the 10 best treats for pugs must haves. Best Treats for Pug Puppies Now that you know the 10 best treats for Pugs, here are some of your options for the best treats for Pug puppies. Blue Buffalo Blue Bits Soft-Moist Training Treats These soft moist training treats from Blue Buffalo are very tempting that even the unruliest pup will surely behave before you even know it. Blue Buffalo Blue Bits use real beef as its first ingredient. The treats offer Pug puppies the real nutrition they need. The treats also contain DHA which can encourage the healthier brain development of your pup. However, although the treats are great snacks for dogs, they contain some cane sugar. It means you need to limit the amount that you give to your pup. But of course, these still work perfectly as special occasion treats. The product is also free from corn, wheat, and soy. These are also enriched with omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids just like other Blue Buffalo treats. Old Mother Hubbard Wellness Puppy Biscuits One of the biggest benefits of dry treats is that they can clean the teeth of your Pug puppies. Old Mother Hubbard treats contain chicken protein. These are small but extremely crunchy biscuits that all puppies will love. Aside from chicken, these treats also contain apples, oatmeal, carrots, and a selection of added vitamins and minerals that can support the optimal growth of your puppy. Be sure to have some of these treats handy every time you play and interact with your pup to reward good behavior and manners. One of the best things about these treats from the Pupford brand is the fact that they are very healthy. These treats are made from simple freeze-dried beef liver, making them a great source of protein for canines. These treats are free of fillers and sugar. These snacks for puppies also have low-calorie content, with each treat only containing one calorie. Nutrient-rich and tasty treats that are low in calories like these are ideal for training, specifically for breeds such as Pugs that are at risk of weight issues. Dogs are known to be big fans of lamb and its taste. Salmon is also a great addition to the already rich flavor of these treats. Puppies love chewy treats, and these soft puppy bites are great options for them. These treats are made up of all-natural ingredients. Aside from pure salmon and lamb, they also contain other healthy ingredients like blueberries and sweet potatoes. Antioxidants are also added to further enrich these puppy treats. Fruits and Vegetables as Treats for Pugs Pugs are among the small dog breeds that are prone to weight gain because of their short snouts and legs which make exercise less appealing and tougher for them. Excess fat in their diet may worsen their breathing problems and even shorten their lifespan. The extra weight can also put additional stress on their tiny backs, legs and hearts. To prevent weight gain, it is important to take your Pug on regular walks and avoid overfeeding. One of the easiest ways to train and treat your Pugs without putting their health at risk is by using fruits and vegetables as treats. Listed below are some of your best options. Just make sure to consult with your vet first before you let your Pug munch on these treats: Apples.

We've had her for 2 days now and she is adjusting well to her new home. We recommend boxermompupsaz. Dave and Debbie Phx. Cheryl was extremely helpful and supportive throughout the entire process. I would recommend her to anyone looking to find their nest boxer puppy. Kona is a great addition to the family! We just adopted Rock fawn male boxer on Jan 20th from Cheryl, we are so happy with the service and great care they gave our boy! We are so blessed to have found the and brought us our new boxer, We had Sparky for 12 years and we just fell in love with the breed. We are very happy with our whole experience with this breeder and would recommend them to all. Thank you again I have been a Boxer fan my whole life. My mom bred Boxers back in NY. I love that sweet face, silly personality and wiggle butt you can only have with a boxer! We recently had to put our girl Reese down at 12 years old. We didn't know if we were ready.My boss recommended I reach out to Cheryl, as she had just gotten a pup from her a month before. I did and Cheryl took the time to find out what color, gender and timing we wanted to have a puppy. She kept me posted on available litters and when I could expect a new baby. Cheryl was very good about answering all the new mom questions I had and was very patient. Within 3 months of putting down our deposit we were the proud parents of Riplee! Our crazy, beautiful Seal puppy. We could not be happier with her. She is bright eyed, sweet and full of energy. Michelle Phx So here we are.Boxer parents again. Doris has went to the vet with our Yorkie for vaccinations. Low and behold there was a 6 month old boxer more than likely from Cheryl there that jumped and played with my wife as the story goes. She came home and was crying. Prior to us moving here, we had two boxers. Once you have a Boxer your life will never be complete without a Boxer jumping around, slobbering and those eyes.That day after the vet my sole purpose was to find another Boxer. I searched Phoenix not knowing we had the best breeder here in Tucson! I called Cheryl and we actually went to a visitation for other parents to be that weekend. We got to play, snuggle and bathe some of the pups. Miss Cheryl was busier than a one legged man in butt whooping contest. It was Amazing. So we chose to get a pup from the next litter. We too started getting texts at like am. We chose Princess Tessa. She is home with us now and we love her so. The anxiety was killing us like a kid around Christmas! Could not wait for that day Tessa came home. Thank you Cheryl for making us whole again. Tessa is happy and doing well. If you want a Boxer, please call Cheryl! We decided that we would get a boy and a girl. It had great information on it and lots of pictures so we could see how the dogs were taken care of. We got lucky and Cheryl had a pick of the litter male available first. Moose has been a blessing to us as he reminds us daily of our old boy we lost. We then waited for our girl to be born from Khalessi and Bama Boy. We finally went to pick up Poppy a few weeks ago and the two have been inseparable ever since. Cheryl also gave us a nice starter kit for both dogs and provided the microchip for the dogs. We would definitely recommend her if you are looking to get a boxer in the near future. Working with Cheryl was absolutely amazing and you can truly see that she honors the work that she does each and every day. She cares about these animals and she keeps her promises. We purchased a beautiful female fawn boxer this past February after she was born into a litter last December. The price was also very reasonable and Cheryl went above and beyond our expectations. Our baby boxer Bella is an absolute gem and beyond everything we thought she was going to be. Thank you Cheryl and God bless you. We were thrilled to find Cheryl in Tucson. I loved that we could see her previous puppies on the website as well as the expecting parents. Even the sales contract was online to help us understand what to expect. We felt comfortable making a deposit and waiting for the right puppy to come along. Cheryl communicated throughout the process and she was responsive to any questions we had. Love at first sight! He has melted our hearts as well. He is very handsome too, clearly has good genes! Highly recommend obtaining a boxer puppy from Cheryl! Great experience and great dogs! Michelle- Phx Cheryl is great to work with, she was very helpful with all my questions. Would definitely work with Cheryl again, if I was crazy enough to get 2 puppies at the same time again! When she passed in December, we did the math and calculated that putting in a deposit on a pup in February would be perfect timing for a new summer family member. Best laid plans.Eddie "Cue Ball" McDonald came home just in time to keep us company and get the best puppy pampering and bonding experience ever during quarantine. He's brought so much love and joy--and much needed entertainment and exercise--into our lives, and has been exactly the happy, healthy, smart, good boy we hoped for. Cheryl was so kind and great to work with, and her love for the animals is very clear. We'd recommend working with her anytime! Leigh - Tucson Would definitely recommend Cheryl when purchasing a puppy. She was there for us during the good and not so good times. Cheryl is a very knowledgeable breeder, she is a compassionate and loving human being. I have already been recommending her here in Willcox. Thank you so much for Buckshot Cheryl. She kept us up to date through the entire process. When it came time to pickup Ava, she provided us with a little goody bag to give Ava the best start! We are so happy we added her to our family. She is already bossing her big brother around and they love to snuggle. Racheal in Phx Hi, Cheryl! My husband has wanted a Boxer dog since he was a kid. We finally got into the golden stage with our family -- kids all the perfect age, big house with a big back yard -- and we decided to go for it. I happened upon Cheryl's site and immediately reached out to her. We got in touch over the phone and had the greatest conversation ever. She answered every single one of my questions and helped me feel so comfortable! I could tell right away that she'd been doing this for a long time and that she truly cared about her dogs. It was so comforting! It would be a whole lot worse though if we didn't have Hondo and Duke around to keep us company. Thank you, Cheryl, for everything! We could not have asked for a better experience! Michelle- Phx Cheryl is such a pleasure to work with. We bought our first boxer from her almost a year ago. Dex has such a great temperament and Cheryl does a great job at socializing her puppies. We couldn't be more pleased with Dex. In fact we had such a great experience with Cheryl that when we decided to get a friend for Dex and more Boxer love for us, we contacted Cheryl and we bought our little girl Remi basically over the phone. Cheryl sent us some pictures of her and we fell in love. Over the next 2 weeks Cheryl was great with sending videos and pics before pick up day. We have gotten a lot of compliments on Dex and Remi Kristen We contacted Cheryl through her website, we were not sure we wanted to travel to Tucson but after looking at her pups online we were interested. There just was nothing in Phoenix. Either they didn't have the mom or they didn't have the dad, we weren't interested. So we drove down to meet Cheryl. She was well into breeding and knew a lot about the boxer breed. She didn't have any puppies available at the time as they were all sold. But we came on a visitation day, we were impressed with her puppies. She said there would be a couple of litters coming up if we were interested. We wanted a flashy female. She called us in a couple weeks and said she had one come available and we could have her in 5 weeks, we could come and see her in a week so we jumped at the chance. Cheryl kept us updated and sent pictures once a week. Very very impressed with Cheryl and feel we gained a friend as well as our dear Daisy. Cheryl thanks again! Janet-Phx Cheryl was absolutely amazing from start to finish. Getting a puppy from her was the best experience. From getting to meet the parents then getting updates on puppies along with pictures. Even visitations with them while we were waiting to take him home. I will definitely be coming back. We love our Onyx more than words. Lynette-Tucson Cheryl Galloway is absolutely amazing and the quality care she puts into breeding boxers is absolutely amazing. She truly cares about what she does and we are over the moon with our baby Boxer Bella, born December .I highly recommend Cheryl. She definitely has a passion for what she does. Thank you again Cheryl! Lois-Phx Cheryl was amazing through every step of the way!! She is VERY knowledgeable and takes great care of all her dogs and puppies. She was very honest and accommodating with all my questions and fantastic at responding to my MANY requests for pictures and videos of our girl : Our little firecracker is FULL of personality, well-socialized, and came home knowing how to use the doggy door bonus! Domino is the perfect addition to our family, and there is no doubt that we know just who to contact when we are ready for another. Can't thank you enough! Kim Phx We had a great experience! Cheryl and boxermompupsaz. Great communication leading up to the sale, great payment options and very friendly to deal with. Our pup was in excellent health,,he had current health record and all of the proper shots for his age! Adam and Jodi in Tucson I found Cheryl on line when looking for a boxer puppy after losing our best friend Rookie. Cheryl was friendly and kind on the phone but when we met her in person I was taken by her knowledge and her professionalism as well. Mugsy was born to Lexi the night before Thanksgiving. Cheryl texted me all night long starting at 10pm until am until all 9 pups were born. You might not want to do that but I asked and Cheryl delivered! After Mugsy was born we came out several times for visits. The puppies were all healthy and clean and full of personality. When we picked Mugsy up Cheryl sent us home with a care package with everything we would need to get us through the first week just in case we forgot anything. She thought of everything! New toys, food bowls, collar and leash, first aid kit, basic medical supplies. Because Cheryl socializes her pups so well, Mugsy came home already using the doggie door. Cheryl is warm and caring and she loves her pack. All that we met had great temperaments and were living long healthy lives. Mugsy is part of our family now and we know Rookie would approve. Thanks Cheryl for a great experience. Working with Cheryl was wonderful! From the very beginning she was very open to communication and tons of questions from us. She was patient when we explained we had to wait because we lost our dog in February. We were able to go meet Cheryl and a few of her dogs, just to put a face to the name. She is open to any questions and very knowledgeable about the Boxer breed. Once we found out a litter was due, she kept us informed on the due date and sent pictures of the pups immediately! We were so happy! Even for the first weeks, Cheryl sent pictures of our chosen pups and videos! Which made my day! I would recommend Cheryl to anyone seeking a Boxer to add to their family! Shelley W. While we were waiting for our little Kai in December, we decided to adopt Meka Gucci one of your retired females in October. Meka is such a sweetheart and gets along with the family. Then in December we were able to bring Kai home. They get along so well, and they're so much fun to watch. They sure bring a lot of joy and happiness! Thank you for what you do, we know for sure who to go to when we need another boxer or two! Thanks again! Pam and Bob Surprise Az. .Cheryl was wonderful to work with. I was very lucky that when I called her she had just had a litter of pups available! And I have Lucy. We had decided on getting a brindle girl, and when the litter came, Cheryl let us know. We came for the first visit and saw that she had a boy still available. And of course we couldn't leave him so we ended up with two puppies. We love Luke and Leia so much and Cheryl was so easy to work with. If ever we are looking for another puppy, we will come back to Cheryl. When I was ready for another pup, I knew Cheryl was the one to call. I had expressed my interest in an older Boxer that was retiring and needed some love. It was so special to have the opportunity to adopt little Scout's dad, Buddy has absolutely completed the home and he is the most loving and gentle dog in the world. It means so much that you chose and trusted me to take care of this sweet boy, he is beyond spoiled and so very loved! Thanks for all you do! Xoxo Kenzie,Scout and Buddy Hey Cheryl, I have gotten two dogs from Cheryl and have really been pleased with the service she gives and you can really tell this is her life passion. Cheryl always explains what she has done for the puppies she brings into your life and really wants her puppies to start out right with you. Cheryl is always willing to give you advice and always willing to answer questions. I would highly recommended Cheryl and her puppies to anyone. Thank you Cheryl Sincerely, P. Mongo and Brawley are doing great and getting along. I lost my beloved boxer a few years ago and was ready to get another one. I love the breed and how they bond with their families. The previous breeder was no longer breeding, so I decided to try Cheryl because of the reviews. She did not disappoint. She let me and my daughters come down to pick our pup, spent time talking with us and telling us about the parents and their temperaments. Our puppy, is a puppy and full of boxer energy, but she has already bonded with me and comes near if she feels I am upset, she is amazing with my 2 year old. Shannon-Chandler Cheryl is a total joy to work with, and an awesome breeder. It is obvious how much she loves her dogs. They all have great and gentle personalities as well as being physically beautiful. She clearly explains the process to transfer CKC registration and microchip ownership information. She sends your puppy home with a great starter bag that includes a dog pillow, a leash and collar, stuffed toys, treats etc. We would highly recommend Cheryl as a breeder. Our little Bella is now four months old. We take her everywhere and she always draws a crowd of admirers which she graciously soaks in. We are so very blessed because of Cheryl and her beautiful babies. My husband is retired and the house was just too empty without Damien. I hated not being greeted by my fawn colored kidney bean when I would get home from work. So we talked and decided we would get a Boxer from a breeder. We found Cheryl and we feel so fortunate that we did. The first Boxer we got from her is Lil-Bit and she is retired and the sweetest girl ever. She's laid back and very protective of myself and my Husband. Loves to just be with us and go on walks. We also got a brand new pup and his name is Sam. He is almost 9 weeks old and very smart. I had many questions about his shots and was super concerned about the Parvo virus. He already had three shots and was wormed when we brought him home. Cheryl told me to have visitors take off their shoes before they enter my house and wash their hands before touching the pup. I went as far as buying shoe covers! She is always available for questions or to just run something by her. She really loves her dogs. I truly believe that this is her calling, just by the way she is with all of them. You could not find a better person to buy a Boxer from. Cheryl lets you visit whenever you want, unless one of her girls is delivering. She stays home with them the whole time, You also bring home a huge bag of goodies when you bring your pup home. Food,bed,toys,collar and leash and so much more. Every Boxer I ever get will be from Cheryl. So I googled and found Cheryl. I decided to surprise the family for Christmas and Cheryl made this such an easy and fun experience! She was very informative and willing to be on call for any help I needed. Our baby Petunia is healthy, adorable and smart. If we ever decide on another puppy, we will definitely be calling Cheryl again. Julie- Chino Valley Cheryl is not only an amazing breeder but a kind heartened and sweet women that is passionate about her boxers. This is a late review but there is no better time then now to share my experience. I had to put down my old boxer of 15 years back in April and I was distraught. After a couple months I branched out, looking for boxer breeders. I'm so glad I found Cheryl. She responded to my text right away and I was set on the last male puppy in Luna's litter. Cheryl was attentive and sent updated photos of baby Apollo, all the way up until pick up. She was kind enough to meet my boyfriend and I half way, on her way to Phoenix. Baby Apollo is now 19 weeks old. He is a great addition to our little family; very healthy, happy, goofy and spunky. I'm so thankful for Cheryl. We might come back for second addition soon! Nicoletta- Az. My Husband and I knew we wanted a puppy for our family. We have always adopted from a shelter, but now with 4 small children and one on the way we decided to find a breeder. The minute we made contact with Cheryl we knew that we were working with a person who loves her dogs and her puppies. Our sweet boy Leo is just the most amazing puppy and we are all so in love with him. From the first day that I contacted her, she sent tons of photos, videos and had quick responses to my emails and texts and she always had the puppies best interest at heart, which I absolutely loved. We can tell that our puppy Aspen was so well taken care of and loved because of how attached to Cheryl she was every time we went and visited her. I would recommend Cheryl to anyone looking for a purebred boxer that is very well taken care of and loved. Cheryl, thank you for our precious new puppy and her amazing going home bag and gifts. We love Aspen so much! Rivers Family It all started back in early December as my wife and I were wanting to get a second boxer as we had to put our Boy down in , we have a female 6 year old boxer named Delpheena Rose. Cheryl contacted me back saying that she has a litter due in late Dec. Well the puppies were born and on we got the best present, we got 1st pick of the pups! We picked the all black male boxer. We were so excited, starting putting names on a list and name after name we just couldn't pick one. We asked if we could come and meet our puppy and Cheryl welcomed us to come and meet our boy. The puppy was 2 weeks old when we went to meet our baby. Love at first sight to say the least, we chose the name "Dexter". I have to say that being able to go and meet the puppy was one of the best things we did. We ended up going to see Dexter twice and then at week 7 and one day we picked Dexter up. We are so happy with how well Cheryl takes care of these babies. I would totally recommend Cheryl to anyone who is looking for one of the best additions to the family. We will be getting a second puppy in the future. Marc and Megan I am so happy I was able to find Cheryl and her pups. I had a horrible experience of losing my brindle baby and best friend of 8 years. We rescued her from the streets and gave her love and I never thought I would lose her. Well, when I found Cheryl, i knew i had to get another puppy. I have been in love with my puppy since we went to pick her up. She is amazing, she has adapted very well and she loves seeing us walk thru the door after a long day of work. I will forever be grateful for Cheryl for giving my new baby girl and myself a new chance. We will definitely be going back to you!! Just got Firulais! I contacted Cheryl months after losing my best friend Winslow, a rescue boxer who had to be put down do to lymphoma. I was sure I wanted another boxer because a home is just not complete without one. I found Cheryl online. Having always done rescues I was nervous, but Cheryl had great info about her and her dogs and all her reviews were glowing. Cheryl responded to my and email right away and asked to put Winslow's picture on the memorial page. She asked if I was ready for another puppy but understood if I wanted to wait. She told me Midnight and Buddy had just had a litter. She sent me photos and I fell in love with Wyatt. Cheryl encouraged us to come see Wyatt right away. She worked hard to coordinate with us and brought Wyatt and even his mom Midnight. It was obvious Cheryl loves and cares for all the dogs she has. Both were happy, healthy and social. We got to see Wyatt every week and even met his dad, Buddy, and his siblings on and off her property. He was always clean, and on schedule for shots, de-wormer etc. Cheryl would text me photos, videos, and updates. Wyatt even got his nub nipped by a litter mate and she made sure he was looked at and cared for. We picked Wyatt up to bring him home and Cheryl literally gave us everything we needed. At 18 weeks Wyatt is an active, healthy, playful, loving puppy who is great with people of all ages and other dogs. Thank you so much Cheryl! As someone who doesn't trust easily and as someone who always had rescues, I can say this was a great experience. I wish all breeders were as responsible and caring as Cheryl. Someday Wyatt may get a sibling and we will be using Cheryl! Thank you Boxer Mom Pups Az! Christina Amazing! We now have a happy, healthy and very special little girl. Cheryl is one of a kind, she takes great care in making us feel apart of the whole experience from birth to take home. The pictures during the first weeks the visits and take home care package. We will never buy from anyone else. Thank you so much for our new baby girl, Zoey! They came home with us Dec 4th. What a wonderful delight they are- healthy happy puppies. Cheryl does a wonderful job with her breeding! If you are in the market for a puppy- Cheryl is definitely the place to go. She loves her Dogs! Not a typical breeder.Yvonne - Tucson Cheryl is not your average breeder. She cares about everyone of her puppies and she makes sure they go to the right homes. We just got not one but two puppies and I couldn't be happier!! We met and picked our first one at 4 days old and fell in love with another one while we had visitation of the one we originally picked!!! When the 7 weeks finally came so we could take our babies home. Cheryl had a bag full of needed items as well as pillows to make the transition easier!! I will definitely keep in touch with how our babies are doing and would love to see new puppies as they are born!! My whole experience was amazing. I recommend Cheryl to everyone. My nephew and daughter both are proud owners of Cheryl 's boxers. I consider her a friend now! I will be in the market again SOON! Shawnee - Tucson Boxer Mom I want to thank you so much for our wonderful puppy Angel we got from you a couple years ago. You were so helpful and when she got lost, you were so helpful in reminding us about the microchip and got her BACK! You have been there anytime we have an issue and referring your vet they are Great! Just recently Angel had 6 puppies and you were on the other end of the phone the whole time, offered to come over if there was a problem. Everything went well, pups all found loving homes. Thanks again for your help. So glad you have this section for us to tell our experiences, I am sure I'm not the only one! April - Tucson Dear Cheryl I want to let everyone know I have purchased several dogs over the years, and have never met a more compassionate person as you. You really want whats best for your pups. We will certainly refer you to anyone interested in purchasing a Boxer puppy. Our pup came with a starter kit. It even had some things in there for me! It was much more than I expected. We brought Honey home and didn't need to go to the store to buy anything. You were very through in selecting what we would need our first night at home with our new puppy. Also, your Memorial page is very thoughtful for those of us that have lost a canine companion. He is such a good puppy and great addition to our other Boxer Lola. The starter kit you sent him home with shows how much you love your dogs and want the best home for them. Thanks again for all the pics and updates you sent me prior to us bringing him home! Sheryl - Scottsdale Cheryl was so amazing to work with and we would do it again in a heartbeat! The initial conversational was great, she took the time to ask us our needs as a family and helped match us to the right pup; Sigourney is exactly that, the perfect boxer girl. Cheryl also sent pictures and updates during the waiting period which was immensely appreciated. Pick up day went smooth and we had a peaceful time chatting with her for a bit. Her goodbye with Sigourney touched our heart, her love for all her dogs and the puppies were palpable. Sigourney's temperament is amazing. She is happy, calm and patient. She is doing great with all three kids and all under 5yrs old! She truly is a little ball of joy. We recommend and will continue to recommend Cheryl to everyone who genuinely wants a happy, healthy boxer paired with the best experience. We look forward to the future, God Bless! My daughter named her Baja. You were wonderful in keeping us up to date with pictures and helpful with our questions. It was such a pleasure to have met you. I will definitely recommend you to other people. It was a wonderful experience and Cheryl is a loving, caring breeder. Our puppy Coco is a beautiful, healthy and a joyous addition to our family. We highly recommend her puppies! As a lifelong boxer owner and lover, I have to say this was my best breeder experience ever. From my initial contact to email to the day I picked Max up, Cheryl was so responsive to questions, sent lots of pictures and updates as Max grew with his siblings. When I first went to meet Max not only could I meet his parents, but a lot of her adult boxers. I knew right away this was a great place. Every dog adults and pups were clean, friendly and happy. Sure enough Max has that same great temperament as his parents. It is hard to find breeders who are truly loving and care so deeply to better this great breed. This is the only breeder I know who actually holds the pups till 9 weeks just to make sure the 2nd round of the 4 puppy shots is done. In addition Max came home with all the info I could ever need, plus a great goody bag with treats, food, food bowl, and some of his favorite toys. Along with a surprise for us! I could have found 50 breeders closer to my home, but will never get another pup anywhere but from here and would recommend them to everyone. I can't thank Cheryl enough for completing our family! Mesa, Az. I want to thank you so much for giving us the most awesomest experience in finding our new family member. Being able to visit with our new pup throughout the weeks was so great, bonding with her and seeing her grow. All of your dogs were so great and after meeting them the first time I knew I made the right choice coming to you. I could tell you take pride in breeding and raising such wonderful dogs. You made this such a pleasant experience. I look forward to keeping in touch and we are so proud to be apart of boxermompupsaz family!! Thank You, Thank You!! Shannon O. Tucson We want to thank you so much for Lego, he is the perfect addition to our family. From the moment we met you till we picked up Lego, you were great! You gave us a lot of advice and answered our questions and concerns. Even now I know I could call and you will be there to help. Thank you so much for the wonderful experience. Stevie H. Tucson On an odd rainy day in February, I met up with Cheryl at the vet's office to meet Valentino, when I saw the puppies I could not decide which one so I adopted them both as love is not for sale. There were only 3 in their litter and Romeo was already reserved. Teddy and Valentino named so due to being born on Valentines Day are the love that we needed in our family. Let me tell you, sometimes they are very mischievous, rambunctious and can be down right stubborn. With that being said, I would not trade them for the world. Valentino is the leader, he has gotten into the sink and stole a defrosting London Broil. How did he get into the sink? Maybe he stood on Teddy's back. I can imagine them doing this, they are THAT intelligent. Well dinner was a little late but I was more concerned about his sensitive stomach. Teddy loves being on my white Italian leather sofa, he loves it so much that he smelled something probably crumbs and tore a hole right into the shoulder of it. I spent a Saturday sewing it up, while arguing with Teddy. He has claimed this sofa as his own. This is the love that I speak of. No matter what they get into, just one look at those sad eyes and I am a big bag of mush. They are the cleanest babies I have ever seen. They love to play in the mud and I let them! They are my babies. They are so smart, I lock them out of the doggie door and they will clean themselves, when finished they knock on the door. They loves kids! They use to jump on them but I have trained them that babies cry. So now they walk up and allow them to pet them while they wag their stumps and drool thank goodness Walmart has an endless supply of baby wipes. They are very territorial,nthis is our fault. We have kept them all to ourselves. We love them so much. Cheryl, the cost that we paid for them is nothing to the joy that they have brought us. The wagging stump waiting for us after a bad day, they love us unconditionally, to hear them "talking back" when one of us tells them to " Go to bed", it is priceless. Thank You Cheryl for doing such a good job with your breeding services. The Reades Tucson We found Boxermompupsaz. Cheryl bent over backwards to give us a few chances to meet our new family member before we brought her home. We had to drive a few hours to get there and were thankful for that. Our care package was a fun "treat" to go through too. Charles's personality?? I can't say enough about her. She is our second dog with our other boy being "not so friendly to other pups BIG dog", Charlie walked in and took his heart along with his toys, but somehow knows how to back off when she needs to. She is smart, loves to please and the most adorable dog we have EVER seen! Apart from out first born boy of course! Thank you Cheryl. We recommend Boxermom to the moon and back! Angela A. Tucson Thank you so much for our beautiful sweet and snuggly little Lily. We are so grateful to have met you and been given the opportunity to adopt her. She is adapting nicely to her new home, but misses her mama, brothers, sisters and of course you! She's got quite the personality. We will keep in touch and share your site with our friends, family and neighbors who are interested in boxer pups. I can't thank you enough for the experience and being so kind and helpful during this whole process. Best of luck to you always. Jill C. Phoenix Follow Us. We are also licensed and inspected by the state and USDA. Our Boxers are bred for intelligence, conformation, health, and socialability. There many champions in the ancestry of our Boxers. Trojan is OFA certified for his hips, elbows, heart and, thyroid. Our males are OFA certified against hip displacia. Romeo and Romeo's sire are OFA certified. Zaccur is OFA certified. Harley was OFA certified, which is a sires of many of our females. Romeo's Grand sire was a champion. The older female are OFA certified for their heart and thyroid. The puppies come with a 1 year health guarantee for genetic defects. All are included in the price of your puppy. Puppies are ready to go to their new homes at 8 weeks of age. All puppies will have their tails cropped and dew claws removed. They will be current on shots and dewormings. If a deposit is being send in the mail, the puppy is marked as pending sale. When the deposit arrives the puppy is marked an sold. If the payment does not arrive in a week, the puppy will be placed back for sale. Paypal is available for payment. More pictures of the puppies are available on request. Leah was a very good mama. She had plenty of milk, and was very attentive to cleaning the pups and attentive to their little grunts and squeals. Our goal this week was to get Leah comfortable with us handling her puppies and convincing her to go leave them to outside to the bathroom. Several times I picked her up and carried her out the door,only to have her look through the screen window three minutes later with a look of fear that her babies were going to be harmed in some fashion. Leah continued to get a raw egg added to her food after whelping, just like she did during the end of gestation when we gradually changed her over to the high protein puppy food her pups would be eating. Like normal dogs, she ate very little leading up to labor and very little for first few days after whelping. This is why allowing the mother dog to eat and consume the puppy sacs and placenta of each pup, yes it sounds gross, but is natural and normal and necessary for protein and energy supplementation. I was more worried about her drinking enough water so she would produce enough milk, so several times a day I would place the bowl of water right under her nose and she would drink about a cup at a time. It took about two days before she would stand up and go to the edge of her whelping pool to eat and drink the food I placed in her elevated food dish. Pet Feeder Feeding Tray Removable 8 Although I immediately announced the arrival of our puppies on Facebook and the Boxer forum we restricted visitors to just immediate family the first week. With the exception of my own kids when they were babies, there is very little that is cuter and and more relaxing than holding and cuddling a puppy. I totally believe in imprinting and socializing puppies early, starting at day one. This accomplishes a few things, our scent is on each pup, thus they got used to our smell and Leah got used to our smell on them and this in turn I believe made her more relaxed. After about four days we could sit back in a chair in the room and cuddle a puppy while Leah stayed with the rest of her litter in the whelping pool. We were always careful in the early stages to only hold one to two pups at a time and made sure each pup got held an equal amount, although everyone in the house had a favorite. More Dog Stories by James Herriot Leah had seen him for routine vaccination, dewormings and her pre-breeding examination. We kept in communication with him in regards to the breeding date and expected whelping date and scheduled an appointment the Saturday morning of Leahs due date for her postpartum exam, puppy exams, dock their tails and have dewclaws removed. We worried how Leah would react, so the puppies first car trip was done with purpose and with a plan. Firs,t let Leah out to go to the bathroom. Second, have a small box with a heated rice bag under a blanket and close the top. Third, carry the puppy box into the back seat of the car where Leah would follow. This worked like a dream, the warmth kept the puppies comfortable and I would occasionally lift the lid to reassure Leah her puppies were fine. Why Dock Boxer Tails Boxer pups get their tails docked and dewclaws removed at three days of age. Boxers have had their tails docked for over a hundred years. Therefore breeders cannot tell by looking at a dog if they have a strong hefty tail, or a skinny very long weak tail. We arrived at the vets and I brought the puppies into the exam room and Leah stayed in the waiting room with my husband. I expected the puppy squealing to make her very anxious and worried. However everything was over and done in minutes with Leah being very calm and relaxed. Two stitches in their tail, then turned them over for dewclaw removal and back in the warm box they went. Only two pups let out an initial squeal and all were asleep by the time Mama came in 10 minutes later. She had lost about 5 lbs from her initial breeding weight and had a low-grade fever, so he gave her a general antibiotic as a precaution, gave her a Vitamin B shot and about a dozen cans of canned dog food to stimulate her appetite. He asked about her discharge, the rate of labor, how she was nursing, and examined her teats for mastitis or infection. This was a lesson in trust and one more important step in the puppy maturation process. After this Leah was more willing to go outside and leave her pups, and by day seven she was willingly getting up and going out. Stayed tuned for the next article and week two of a puppy adventures where they open their eyes. Raising Boxer Puppies.

Of course, I don't just pick up any dog from craigslist, and no, they weren't sales. We made several visits and spent time with the owners and the dogs. And both parents asked us tons of questions, wanted to meet our children and even our dog. Bullie was adopted from a woman who contracted multiple sclerosis. She had Bullie for 3 years, the last 2 years with the disease. It got to the point that she would fall down when Bullie brushed against her legs so she considered the adoption. Bullie came with a wardrobe which was all Georgia Bulldogs motiff, and because my husband is a Gator, we ditched them all and replaced them, including her harness! I felt really bad when we took Bullie home because she was crying like crazy. And yes, we found her through craigslist - she had the ad there for 3 months before she finally gave Bullie up. She said she had tons and tons of people come but nobody else made her feel good about the adoption. She was planning to just give us Bullie for free but we didn't feel good about that. Now, Angus, we got from craigslist too. He was 9 months old and his dad lost his livelihood a few weeks after getting Angus. He owned his own construction business and he had zero projects since! He lasted 7 months before he gave in to have Angus adopted because he was starting to feed Angus anything he can find super cheap - he went without much food himself for a while just so he can feed his dog properly. Poor Angus, when we got him he was so skinny. He didn't have a crate, not even food bowls because he outgrew the ones he had and his dad couldn't afford to buy new ones.His dad still keeps in touch with us until today asking about Angus. He still doesn't have a steady job and he has sold most of his equipment to pay his rent. Now, why both of them didn't contact a rescue - it never occurred to them! So, there can truly be dogs in need of help in craigslist but it's like looking for a needle in a haystack of scummy ads. I look at craigslist mostly for furniture. Use our detailed filters to find the perfect place, then get in touch with the landlord. The adage is true, but you can acquire dogs for free. Select Breed 1,, Dogs adopted on Rescue Me! Free puppies!! Find and adopt a pet on Petfinder today. The thought of a free dog has an almost irresistible allure, especially if you do not already have a pet. Zillow has single family rental listings in Oklahoma City OK. Of course, all dogs then require food, toys, bedding, veterinary care, and other items to keep them happy and healthy. You can even sometimes get a purebred dog with no upfront costs. Help them! Pet Classifieds Oklahoma City. Free puppy - pets Don't know anything about it. Find it via the AmericanTowns Norman classifieds search or use one of the other free services we have collected to make your search easier, such as Craigslist Norman, eBay for Norman, Petfinder. We've detected that JavaScript is not enabled in your browser. Here at Petclassifieds. Free rescues to good home. Free puppies! Check out the Free Dogs section. My friend cant keep her due to him moving. You must enable JavaScript to use craigslist. Or filter for a specific breed. We have collected the best sources for Norman deals, Norman classifieds, garage sales, pet adoptions and more. Reach many interested people who want to give your puppies a good home. I'm pretty sure someone dumped him Looks like maybe months. Free greman sheppard 1 and half years old. Pets Available for Adoption. If you are looking for free puppies near me, keep in mind that each breed has different requirements. She loves car rides and dog parks. She loves kids and all animlas. My friend resuced her from a shelter. I have 2 6month old chihuahua mixes. Her name is athena. Found him scrawny and on the road. Search for dogs for adoption at shelters near Oklahoma City, OK. I couldn't leave him on the side of the road but I also can't keep him. Pet Classifieds OK Oklahoma. Don't know anything about it. You can find your new best friend at our shelter, N. Are you looking for a winter getaway in sunny Arizona? Green Valley is the perfect destination for snowbirds looking to escape the cold and enjoy the warm desert climate. Rehoming my 2 male dogs. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. All puppies found here are from AKC-Registered parents. Silverbell Rd, Tucson, AZ .Here are some tips on how to c. One year old German Shepherd male house. Please dog owners never came. For starters, they are typically mu. Tucson, Arizona is a great place to visit for a weekend getaway or an extended stay. Renting a casita provides many advantages over staying at a traditional hotel or resort. Pets near Casa Grande, AZ .Pets near Bullhead City, AZ. Adopt Po a Black American Staffordshire. This beautiful desert oasis offers a variety of activities and attractions for snowbirds to enjoy. Hours of operation: Monday-Friday, 12pm-7pm. Pets near Cottonwood, AZ .FREE Beautiful male half lab half husky puppy. Yuma is home to some of the most beautiful outdoor scenery in A. When you choose to adopt from the Humane Society of Southern Arizona, you get much more than just a pet. Minimum of 4 dogs earning titles Breeders of Merit are denoted by level in ascending order of: Standard, Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. You get a new best friend, unconditional love, and peace of mind knowing you saved a life. Our friendly and knowledgeable adoption counselors are here to help you find the perfect pet for your home. Are you looking for a winter escape from the cold? A snowbird rental in Green Valley AZ could be the perfect solution. Are you looking for a winter getaway that will provide you with the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure? If so, a snowbird rental in Yuma, AZ is just what you need. With its close proximity to Tucson, Green Valley offers plenty of act. Arizona Republic Classifieds. Are you looking for the perfect winter getaway? This small town in Arizona offers a variety of activities and attractions that make it an ideal destination for snowbirds. Tucson, Arizona is a great place to get away and explore the beauty of the desert. The small town of Green Valley, Arizona is a popular destination for snowbirds from across the country. Tucson, Arizona is a beautiful and vibrant city with plenty of exciting attractions to explore. Are you looking for a winter getaway in Green Valley, Arizona? Are you looking for a unique and exciting vacation rental in Tucson, Arizona? Look no further than a casita rental. As our community's only open-admission shelter, we have the largest selection of adoptable dogs, cats, puppies and kittens waiting to meet you. Indiana Craigslist Classifieds Use the Craigslist Lafayette link for the local search classifeds, tag sales and much more! Property for Rent in Lafayette. Pets in Lafayette - Local Lafayette Pets for sale or adoption and wanted ads for pets in your area. We have collected the best sources for Lafayette deals, Lafayette classifieds, garage sales, pet adoptions and more. Apartments for Rent in Lafayette, IN. Search for dogs for adoption at shelters near Lafayette, LA. Pets near Lafayette, OR - craigslist. Pets near West Lafayette, IN. West Lafayette Classifieds. You must have a valid drivers license to a… more. We are here for you should the unthinkable happen to a pet you love or find. It was also designed to help re-home pets that have no humans. Louisiana Craigslist Classifieds Use the Craigslist Lafayette link for the local search classifeds, tag sales and much more! Apartment Rentals. Mom is beautiful! Both parents weigh 11 pounds! Ive been breeding this perfect breed for over 30 years! Parents on site! Great Dane Puppies looking for a new good home. Join millions of people using Oodle to find unique used cars for sale, apartments for rent, jobs listings, merchandise, and other classifieds in your neighborhood. Pets near Lafayette, CO - craigslist. Pets for Sale in Lafayette, IN. Pets for Sale in Lafayette, LA. Find and adopt a pet on Petfinder today. Find it via the AmericanTowns Lafayette classifieds search or use one of the other free services we have collected to make your search easier, such as Craigslist Lafayette, eBay for Lafayette, Petfinder. Small hand carved table reversible top. Pets near Lafayette, TN .Report and Search Lost and Found Pets. List of all international craigslist. She is a great size and very lovable. There are many places, including most restaurants and cafes, where you can take your dog with you. Apply to multiple properties within minutes. Prefer her to go to a home with a back yard. Find it via the AmericanTowns Palm Desert classifieds. Pets near Palm Desert, CA. Craigslist of adoption of animals Goldfish, Hamster, Tropical fish, Parrot, etc. Palm Springs Pets for Sale and Adoption. After cats 15,7 million , dogs are the second favorite pet of Germans. Adopt, rescue or buy puppies, kittens and more in Palm Springs! We have collected the best sources for Palm Desert deals, Palm Desert classifieds, garage sales, pet adoptions and more. Friends of the Palm Springs Animal Shelter. California Craigslist Classifieds Use the Craigslist Palm Desert link for the local search classifeds, tag sales and much more! The shelter is operated by Friends of the Palm Springs Animal Shelter, a non-profit organization dedicated to building a community responsible for pet stewardship and humane treatment of animals. Good with my cat too! Please let me know if you have any questions. I started using them last year at the recommendation of my dog walker when she was going to be out of town on vacation. Ideally, you ask a restaurant owner beforehand. Search all Palm Desert Craigslist. Palm Desert Vacation Rentals. Property for Rent in Palm Desert. I have a male Persian cat need to rehome he is full grown about 4yrs old he is intact I will be rehoming for a few if interested contact show contact info. I have a male Persian cat need to rehome he is full grown about 4yrs old he is intact I will be rehoming for a few if interested contact. On Craigslistt, you will also be able to search thousands of items that interest you among all its categories: Buying and selling ads related to motoring motorcycles,motos etc. Without that heavy perfume shampoo that most groomers use. Be one of the first to write a review! Real estate related buying and selling ads renting houses, selling apartments, garages, etc. Craigslist Killer Sentenced To Life. Thank you! See all 13 There aren't enough food, service, value or atmosphere ratings for Mensa The Table, Indonesia yet. Find it via the AmericanTowns Palm Desert classifieds search or use one of the other free services we have collected to make your search easier, such as Craigslist Palm Desert, eBay for Palm Desert, Petfinder. Training and employment ads job offers, courses, book, online seminars, etc. And remember Craigslistt is a portal where you can find totally free or find the ads you want, from jobs, cars, homes, etc. Open now : AM - PM. Would be great as an only dog or with others. Apartment Rentals. Very friendly and professional and the dogs were not scared to go with him. She has a lot of fun pep, energy, and play. Call for Special! Driftwood Oasis Remodeled 3 Bedroom Townhouse. Contact ads friendship, love, etc.

From a very young age we train our puppies in a few things that aid them in being successful adults as family members, companions, service dogs, agility dogs. The Coltriever is a mid sized dog, they weigh between pounds and are built similar to a Golden Retriever. Available Puppies Our next litter will be in September ready for their new home in early November. Usually we have… Early Learning Each of my litters is born inside my home, rather than a kennel setting. This allows them to hear the sounds and smell the scents associated with a household from the very start. They are continually exposed to the everyday sights and sounds of a family home. This includes potentially scary sounds such as vacuum… About Our Puppies I have been raising Coltrievers in Lacey, Washington since .They are a designer dog, which is a mix of Golden Retriever and Border Collie breeds. They are a mid- sized dog, weighing between 40 and 80 pounds. The conformation of a Coltriever is similar to a Golden Retriever. Addie Belle is a huge part of the heart and soul of our home. We love her SO much. And, yes we could be tempted by a sibling some day. Thank you for giving me my Sprinkle. They are active, dedicatedly loyal, and have an intense eagerness to please their owners just for a little attention. Their obedience is quickly reflected through their affectionate and friendly nature, thus making them good with kids. Though some Gollies might tend to be shy, they are highly sociable, being in a jovial mood most of the time. Hence, they do not do well when kept alone for extended periods. Some dog enthusiasts think that so much of cheerfulness in their character failed to make them a good guardian. This assumption, however, is not correct, since their alertness is readily apprehensible from their barking instinct. Gollies are very active and responsive, making for excellent watchdogs. They would start to bark the moment they come across a stranger around and alert their family members about the same. Care Exercise These canids need regular exercise to burn down their calories. Take them out on a walk or jog on a routine basis to channelize their energy positively. Let them play in an enclosed yard if you have one. A total of around 90 minutes of daily physical activities is enough for this breed. Grooming The coat of the Golden Collie is average to long, and their shedding is moderate to high. For this, they need high maintenance, especially if your dog is double-coated, having a long and rough outer coat with a soft undercoat. Brush them regularly, at least times a week, so as to keep their coat smooth and glossy. Regular brushing also promotes blood flow and enhances hair growth. Hence, it is better to consult your breeder about the health history of its parents. Interactive toys that make sounds or dispense treats would give your dog the incentive to work harder. Try frozen Kong toys stuffed with peanut butter. This trick should work. To prevent your dog from being overly excited when your guests come in, teach him to display a controlled behavior when the doorbell rings. Ask your puppy to sit close to the door, and press the doorbell, holding a treat in your hand. If your puppy starts to show any sign of excitement, go close to it and ask it to calm down, showing the gift, but do not give it away. Next, repeat the process and do the same, if your dog shows any sign of excitement. Give the treat as it obeys you and sits down calmly. Doing this activity from time to time would help your dog will learn to put a check to its overly wild behavior as well as refrain from incessant barking habits. Since they are known to shed frequently, they can cause allergies and other irritations. The basic grooming processes needed are: Brushing their furs weekly with a solid bristle brush to prevent them from shedding their coats too much; Cleaning their ears weekly to prevent ear infections; Bathing of one to two times a month; and Having their nails trimmed once they get too long. For first time owners who do not have experience with grooming dogs, this can be difficult because this breed requires high-maintenance grooming. You should see a veterinarian first to ask the grooming practices necessary for your dog. You need to follow the practices always. Excessive shedding is possible, so bath should be given at most twice a month. Their skins can also dry out if bathing is done irregularly. When bathing your dog, use a shampoo specialized for their furs to keep the quality. This mix is also prone to ear infections. Prevention is better than cure, so every week cleaning of the ear should be done. Their ears are one of the essential parts of their body. They cannot carry out their daily activities if their ears are in bad condition. Also, you must also trim their nails if they got too long to avoid future injuries from scratches. There are times that they even scratch their skins, so you must always monitor their nails. Golden Border Retriever Health Problems If the parents of the mixes have disorders, the chances are high that the offspring can inherit the disorder. However, there are cases in which the puppies are healthy even if one of the parents is diagnosed with a disease. It is better to check the pedigree of the crossbreed to verify if it is free from a severe illness. In biology, there is an incident known as hybrid vigor; it means that the offspring is better than its parents in several aspects such as physical characteristics and health. When you adopt a Golden Retriever Border Collie crossbreed, these are the following disorders that can attack your puppy: Skin Allergies Heart Diseases Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Because this breed shed too much, they are vulnerable to skin allergies. Once grooming is not taken care of, allergies can follow. Aside from the allergies that the shedding will bring you, your dog can also be affected by excessive removals of coats. Even though they are medium-sized dogs, bloating is also common to them. When the food matrix is not followed correctly, obesity can happen; it is a prerequisite to severe disorders. The excess weight of your dog can result in heart problems. As mentioned, this breed is highly intelligent, one of the mental diseases that this breed can develop is the Obsessive Compulsive Disorder OCD which can be similar to humans. It will be a nuisance not just for your dog, but to you also. If they have their check-ups regularly, most of these mixes live up to 15 years. Make sure to prioritize their health. Border Collie Mixed with Golden Retriever Food Requirements Researches have proven that the amount of food intake in an individual dog is varying. The nutritional requirement of each dog is dependent on factors like weight, height, and the activities done by your dog. In the case of Border Collie mixed with Golden Retriever puppies, there is also no suggested food servings. For this breed, table foods or the foods consumed by humans cannot be fed to them. They are sensitive regarding the food they are eating. The dog food that you must give to the puppies should contain the necessary amount of vitamins and minerals for their growth. Puppies can be fed thrice in a day. As they grow, their needs for food is decreasing. To prevent obesity in dogs, a meal given twice in a day is recommended. Make a schedule on when to feed them so that they will be used to it; make sure to follow it regularly. In feeding your dogs, make sure to check the suggested amount of servings in the pack of the dog food that you bought. Monitoring the feeding habit of your dogs is essential. Their optimum performance will be achieved if they are given the right amount of food. There are also diets designed for highly skilled dogs. You should consult a veterinarian if you are planning a diet for your dog. Make sure to match their food matrix with their activities. If you want to give your pooch a happy and healthy life, start with nutrition. Avoid food that could be harmful to their health, such as the worst dry dog food. In case you brought a puppy to your home and the little munchkin is just getting used to regular food, take a look at the list of the best puppy food brands. Older dogs should also eat healthy food which is suggested in the best senior dry dog list. Your puppies come from two different parents, which makes them more likely to grow to love dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. They require long hours of exercise. An average of 90 minutes a day is recommended. The hours needed for their exercise is comparably longer to the number of minutes required by some breeds. The reason for this is their highly active lifestyle. Without exercise, the level of their energy can be difficult to match. Even if you are not supervising them, they can exercise on their own. Allocate a place in your home where they can play around. They will eventually stop exercising once they get tired because these dogs know their limits. If you have a backyard at your home, it is the perfect spot for your dog to exercise. Let it run around your yard. With that simple activity, risks of developing serious heart conditions can be reduced. Besides, extra calories can also be burned; therefore, they can be less prone to obesity. As discussed, Golden Collie can make a great exercise companion. You can have them join you in your exercise routines such as: Jogging. As with any mixed breed, they can take on the traits of one of the parent breeds or any combination of both of them. With a Golden Retriever Mix, the goal is to get the highly-trainable, super-friendly, and sweet nature of the Golden Retriever and the best traits of the other dog in the cross. Because there can be variation in the puppies, you will want to ask the breeder about the other dog in the cross. This will give you an idea of what other traits you could be dealing with in a Golden Retriever Mix puppy. A Golden Retriever is known as the quintessential friendly dog with a happy-go-lucky personality. They get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They also tend to be good with strangers as they are more interested in making friends. The other dog breed in the cross could provide some other traits and variations to this, but your Golden Retriever Mix puppy should have a similar disposition to the Golden Retriever. Golden Retriever Mixes tend to be highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in larger homes with room to run and can adapt well to apartment living. As long as they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and affection, they tend to be quite happy wherever they live. Golden Retrievers do well in most climates and are sensitive to heat, as with most dog breeds. Your Golden Retriever Mix should be about the same. A mixed breed can take on potential health concerns related to one, both, or neither of the parent breeds. Overall, a Golden Retriever Mix should be a relatively healthy dog breed. Reputable breeders will screen their stock to avoid passing on genetic conditions to puppies. You can also ask to see any relevant health clearances or test results. Golden Retrievers are famously easy to train, which makes them a great fit for owners of all experience levels. Depending on the other parent breed, there may be a chance that your Golden Retriever Mix could have an independent or stubborn streak. In this case, you will want to be prepared for puppy training and obedience classes in case you want a little help in dealing with stubbornness. Classes are a great idea either way because they help strengthen the bond you have with your puppy and are also a great opportunity to socialize your puppy. Golden Retrievers tend to have a medium-length coat that sheds moderately year-round and requires brushing a few times a week. Bathing is usually on an as-needed basis. This may be the same for your Golden Retriever Mix or their coat could require more or less grooming depending on the other parent breed. Monthly nail trimming is usually sufficient to keep them from growing too long. Weekly ear checks and careful cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Golden Retrievers are high-energy dogs. Your Golden Retriever Mix will likely be the same. Even if the other parent breed is a low or moderate-energy dog, you will need to be prepared to deal with a high-energy dog. Daily walks, playtime, plus extra activity are a must for dogs with a lot of energy. Be prepared to try a lot of different activities to find your favorites. Teach your dog to play frisbee , go for a swim, go running together, try taking a few hikes, go on trips to the dog park, and more. A Golden Retriever is a medium-sized dog breed that stands inches tall and weighs pounds. Your Golden Retriever Mix could be the same or they could take after the other parent breed. Make sure you talk to the breeder about the other breed in the mix and meet the mother dog. This can give you a good idea of what size to expect as your Golden Retriever Mix puppy grows. Golden Retrievers generally live years. Unless the life span of the other parent breed varies largely from this range, you should be able to expect something similar from your Golden Retriever Mix. Featured Golden Retriever Mix Article.

Imagine you could come home to a lovable, dedicated, companion for life! If you knew what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy, you could find your next best friend. Before you buy your new best friend, read this information so you know what to look for in buying a healthy, quality German Shepherd puppy. I group them into major categories. Will you show him in conformation? Do you want to work with him in Schutzhund or herding? Or do you want a confident and alert companion? Know exactly what you want from your puppy. These dogs are the least costly since they have a trait that prevents them from winning in conformation competitions. These flaws rarely matter to most pet owners. And many minor faults like flat withers or slightly smaller offset ears will probably go unnoticed by most owners. The vast majority of GSDs are family pets. These dogs make great pets as long as they have sound temperaments! They breed some dogs for certain traits that are highly desirable but considered a fault. For example, long-coat or plush-coat GSDs. Show-quality dogs have good temperament and health. You usually buy them for their breed standard qualities that make them able to compete in confirmation or show events. A show-quality dog may cost significantly more if they have the traits desirable to win at a show. This group comes from Championship show lines with a long history of winning. If you plan on showing your Shepherd this is the quality you want. Beware of any breeder who claims they only raise competition-quality dogs. Even the best breeders produce many pet-quality dogs and if a breeder says they only breed perfect dogs, this is a red flag to not buy from them. The GSD is a herding breed, and the working-quality dogs excel at working trials such as scent competitions and Schutzhund. Other work includes climbing and jumping competitions or searching and tracking. They need mental stimulation to keep them occupied and take a lot of time to handle properly. These dogs are better with experienced handlers since you use them for high drive working and competition. They require hours and years of training and preparation for you to have total control during competition. We base this decision on preference. With the correct upbringing and training, both sexes are loyal companions and good with children. They may grow into more dominant dogs, so a confident handler is more desirable. Males may hike their back legs to mark their territory. This can occur on any object — chairs, walls, couches or even your leg. I suggest an extra bout of socialization during this stage, especially with other well-behaved dogs. So they may be better for the first-time owner. Unspayed females come into season every 6 months, so they must receive monitoring and watch to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Their season time can vary from as little as every 4 months to every 9 months. They can attract males to your property and on walks that will harass them if not spayed. Certain breeders and organizations will deal only in a certain coat length and color. The standard coat length is a short coat with double layers. Guard hairs on the top cover a softer underlayer of hair that provides warmth and protection. But there are many coat lengths available depending on your liking. Look online at the different GSD coat lengths to get an idea of what type of fur you want your dog to have. The longer the fur the more grooming involved. The color you choose is a matter of individual taste. Keep in mind the color of many Shepherds alters from their puppyhood to around 2 years of age. Your dog may become lighter or darker. Perhaps they will lose some of their markings as the color fades into the adult pattern. The best way to know what color and patterns your dog grows into is to see the parents of the litter. If the father is unavailable, then ask for photos. Why should you care where your dog comes from if you only want him as a pet companion? You want to get a dog that will live a long and healthy life from a source that has quality puppies. These tips will help you make the best decision on what type of pup fits in your life. Newspaper and Internet Classified Ads Newspaper and internet ads are in abundance. Many backyard breeders hide behind ads online or in local papers. But some breeders who use newspapers and classified ads are reputable and knowledgeable. The problem is you need to visit them to find out, and this can take time to sift through them all. Try the following more reputable suggestions to save yourself time. Dog Care Professionals Ask dog professionals for recommendations. Check with your local veterinarian, groomer, and boarding kennel personnel if they know reputable breeders in town. These professionals are good sources of quality leads. Use the same caution that you will for a classified ad. Verify their suggestions. Many of these organizations regularly receive puppies they need to re-home. While you might not know the full pedigree of the dog, purebred GSDs find themselves in shelters and rescues from no fault of their own. These organizations are a good resource for your first pup. Before adopting, find out as much information as you can. Was the puppy exposed to children? Did he live with other dogs or cats? A well-organized shelter or rescue helps you choose a German Shepherd match for your lifestyle. Start with looking online for GSD rescues and local shelters. Dog Clubs Dog clubs are local and national. These groups put you into contact with registered breeders through their own programs. They can give you the name of the GSD club contact closest to you for breed contacts. Dog clubs also have dog shows open to the public. This is a good time to watch the breed in action and to ask around for quality breeders. While using a dog club to connect you with a reputable breeder is not the only choice, it is one of the more reliable. If you are using a breeder to choose your German Shepherd puppy, this section will help you know the good from the bad. Use these tips to stay safe. Are selling overpriced or under-priced dogs. Lie to you and say you can make money off your new puppy by breeding them, despite them having flaws. Tells you that the GSD is a dog for everyone, with no disadvantages. Breeds multiple types of dogs and claims to be an expert on them all. If a breeder lets their mothers get pregnant more than once a year, this affects the quality of the puppies, so ask how many litters the mother has. These breeders selling unhealthy puppies also will refuse to take bag their dogs if you need to return them for any reason and have no contracts. They have healthy puppies and will answer your questions and have you make multiple visits. Openly show you where the mother and pups spend their time, including their garden or yard. Tells you the up and downs of owning the breed. Have all pedigree and vet paperwork on hand for your review. Specializes in breeding only GSDs source. They openly share this information with you. They have screened their dogs for health issues and can confirm this with documentation which they proudly give you a copy. Healthy mothers are given rest from breeding, and a reputable breeder gives their mothers time off from reproduction. Ask if your breeder if they are willing to take back their dogs if you cannot keep them, as this is standard for a quality breeder with a good reputation. Make sure your breeder has a written contract with detailed information and health guarantees. These are expected for safe breeding practices. How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy Following this guide gives you the best chance of buying a German Shepherd puppy that suits your lifestyle. Know what you want from your GSD and where to find quality dogs. Learn what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy to stay safe from a sick pup and a bad breeder. German Shepherds have their own unique set of challenges. They are a large, active, and intelligent breed that requires an understanding owner who is willing to train their GSD using positive techniques. Devote yourself to their overall health to see the best results and help give you and your dog a lifetime of happiness. Remember, your pup will need mental stimulation to keep their brain active , a gentle exercise program , and need daily love and affection. Buying a German Shepherd puppy is a choice for your whole life that will bring you many years of joy and excitement! Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Are you at home to devote time and training to their growth? What open space environment is your home? German Shepherds are on the no dog list in apartment buildings. Do you have a family with other pets? Also, a good breeder will ask you why do you want this particular breed? The breeder should be concerned that a German Shepherd puppy is being placed within the best living environment. Here are some insights to help you bring home the perfect German Shepherd puppy: Types of German Shepherd Puppies Pure-bred German Shepherd puppies are available in a variety of colors and built. The typical description is light brown and black. Black: Rare and beautiful. Their coloring is either all black or a deep dark bluish hair tint. Panda: their coloring consists of black, white, and tan. This is their natural coloring, not contributed to being a mixed breed. Sable: A unique coloring of this breed consists of light black, grey, tan, or gold. As puppies, the Sable German Shepherd puppies are fully tan. As they age, fur begins to develop stronger natural colors. White: No, this German Shepherd breed is not due to albino coloring. Though rate, white is their natural coloring. This German Shepherd puppy will be smaller in size, whether male or female. The reason for this question is that German Shepherds are intelligent and engaging breeds. They can be trained to thrive in any situation and climate. Their ability to cope in any situation is amazing. German Shepherds make great companions, protective family pets, and they are hard workers. Knowing how to choose a German Shepherd puppy, you are wondering what things you should look for. In other words, you are looking to see if it has a good temperament. German Shephard puppies demand and exhibit affection rather aggressively. Parental Traits If you are choosing a puppy from a kennel or a breeder, inquire about its parental background. You want to know if both parents were healthy and friendly. Carefully Examine the Puppy You want to look again for a puppy that is active and healthy. To choose the best German Shepherd puppy, you must become an amateur canine detective and examine the puppy closely. Here are things to look for: A German Shepherd puppy should not look thin. Instead, they should look full-bodied. Their eyes should appear bright and clear. Also, you must invade their personal space by examining their butt area to make sure it is clean. Their nose should be clean and not runny. Their teeth and gums look healthy. Their hair coat should not have bald spots and should not be matted. Your German Shepherd puppy should be free from odors. Pick a puppy that has a good gait, and their tail is up and actively wagging. All puppies need their mothers when they are very young. A German Shepherd puppy can be purchased when they are between the ages of eight and twelve weeks old. If you decide on an older puppy, just make sure that it has retained its socialization skills with both people and other animals. Make sure that the puppy has gotten all its vaccinations and deworming medication. However, within 48 hours of purchase, take your German Shepherd puppy to your vet for a complete exam. The Kennel or Breeder Environment Whether you are purchasing your German Shepherd puppy from a kennel or a private seller, look at the conditions of both. How does the kennel look to you? Both kennels and private breeder yards should be clean, and all puppies should have clean water. Please do not buy a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder where the conditions are unclean. How Instinctive Are You? Many potential dog-owners state that they knew that this was the one when they first saw their puppy. We all have instincts; therefore, you will know what the right buying environment is when you look at the puppies. If you get a feeling that something is not right, leave and find a different breeder. When you purchase your German Shepherd puppy and bring that bundle of joy home, you want to feel confident that you have made the best decision. After all, the relationship with your German Shepherd puppy can last easily for up to thirteen years. Male vs. Female German Shepherd There are many people who only choose a German Shepherd puppy because of their gender or appearance. What is most important in purchasing any puppy is their physical and mental stability. Gender and looks should never be a deciding factor when choosing a dog that will live in your family for the next 12 years or more. Please perform thorough breeder research so that you can choose the right German Shepherd puppy that will fit into your living lifestyle for years to come. Do you want to select a female puppy for future breeding? If not, both your male and female German Shepherd puppy should be spayed and neutered. Female German Shepherds are found to have a sweeter temperament than their male counterparts. Male German Shepherds are more territorial. They also are a little more stubborn and proud. Male German Shepherds are generally larger than their female counterparts. The male can grow to a height range of up to 26 inches. Meanwhile, the female can grow to a height of up to 24 inches tall. Their weight will range from a full-bodied 75 to 95 pounds. When you are trying to decide whether to purchase a male vs. They make excellent watchdogs. Socialize Therefore, if you are going to be around other individuals each day, your German Shepherd puppy must be trained to accept people outside their family unit. Introduce your German Shepherd puppy to strangers so that they will feel comfortable in front of people. By introducing them to strangers, will help them stay calm. They do not like to be left alone for too long. Because they were originally bred for herding, German Shepherds have high energy and thus require physical and mental stimulation. Make sure you have the time and patience to own a German Shepherd puppy. In patiently taking time with their active habits, it will work out to your benefit. They become loyal and loving breeds, especially when raised in a family setting. Remember the TV show Dog Whisperer? The host always referred to a dog requiring a pack leader. German Shepherds must learn that you are the pack leader. If not, they will take the dominant lead, and this is not good. They must be trained and actively exercised to be happy. German Shepherds love to explore and investigate everything. If you live in an area where there are porcupines, lookout. Young German Shepherd puppies will probably come home with quills all over their body. Well, you would be wrong. A German Shepherd puppy will want to correct this wrong and approach another porcupine! Grooming a German Shepherd puppy is simple and easy. Yes, they do shed year-round, so brush them occasionally. But mostly keep their nails trimmed, their teeth and ears cleaned. Dog breeders believe that to help your new German Shepherd puppy adjust from a litter to your new home, they should be crate trained. They need to feel safe and comfortable. Crate training is a learning experience for a German Shepherd puppy, but it eventually helps them get used to a family who perhaps must go off to work every day. Further Reading. Do further research into these local German Shepherd breed clubs in your area. Whether you get information from their websites or contact them directly for help, local breed clubs are a great way to get the names of reputable breeders in your area. Veterinarians come into contact with a lot of different types of animal care-givers, from breeders to shelters to individual owners. Because they know so much about animal issues in the community, it's a good idea to talk to a few vets in your area for ethical breeder recommendations. Also consider speaking to other German Shepherd owners, dog groomers, or dog trainers. If you visit a breed show, talk to owners and trainers about who they've had good or bad experiences with. A good breeder won't have a variety of breeds available for adoption. Look for a breeder who specializes only in German Shepherds. Your best option is to find a breeder who has years of experience with the German Shepherd breed. They should be able to answer your questions about development, temperament, and training easily and without hesitation. A key marker of a good breeder is the amount of effort they put into early socialization. Puppies need to be taught from an early age to live harmoniously with humans. If a breeder keeps litters isolated away from the home, the puppies will not be used to the sights and sounds of a normal household, and won't be used to human interaction. This can become a problem by the time they are old enough to be adopted. Make sure the puppies spend at least some time in the breeders' home with them. The more time they spend with humans, the more you can trust the breeder. An ethical breeder will never try to breed a female who hasn't reached sexual maturity — about 2 years of age. Mothers should also be given enough time to recover from pregnancies and being separated from their litters as they get adopted. Females should be healthy and alert. Never adopt a puppy from a breeder who breeds a young or unhealthy female, or who doesn't give mothers time to recover before breeding them again. Puppies should never be sold or separated from their mothers before 8 weeks of age. The breeder should have begun the puppies' vaccination and deworming processes before adopting them out. Make sure that's happened, and ask about any health problems the vet may have reported in these early checkups. Ask if the breeders have their dogs tested for the Degenerative Myelopathy DM gene. This can determine whether a common inherited disease in German Shepherds is present in the litter's bloodline. Dogs with DM suffer from progressive paralysis, particularly in the hind legs. Note that being AKC-registered does not mean that you are getting a healthy animal. It means that the owner paid money to the AKC to register the dog. While experts recommend against breeding animals with known genetic problems, an OFA certification will give you proof. Be aware, though, that there's no guarantee of health in any animal. There's always a chance that two dogs free of known genetic diseases can still produce a puppy with genetic problems. The breeder should be evaluating you as a potential owner, just as you're evaluating him or her as a breeder. No good breeder will just hand over a puppy without being sure that the new owners will be able to provide it with a good, healthy life. Ask the breeder what they look for in a good owner, and whether they've ever turned potential owners away. The breeder should be able to answer these questions without even having to think about it. You might also ask the breeder for references so you can contact other families who have dogs from previous litters. A reputable breeder should ask questions about your dog background and experience, your lifestyle, and your family to guide you in making the best decision. As difficult as it may be, a good breeder will be willing to turn you away if they think you're a bad fit for their particular puppies. For example, if the litter has particularly inactive parents, the puppies may not be a good fit for your highly active lifestyle. If you get turned away, ask if the breeder can point you to other options and litters so you can expand your search. Also ask if they have any unborn litters coming up that may be a better fit for you. Be patient and don't get discouraged. With enough patience and legwork, you'll find the right puppy. Don't lie to a breeder just to get a puppy, though. Trust the breeder's decision-making process. You don't want to end up with a dog who doesn't fit your needs. Avoid any breeder who offers to cut you a "deal," who has unclean or smelly kennels, or who acts suspiciously in any way. Trust your instincts. A breeder who's in it just for the money has the wrong motivation, and likely isn't interested in the welfare of their dogs. Make sure the dogs are not crowded into cages. They should have plenty of room to stumble around and explore their surroundings. Part of the time, puppies should be kept in the home to expose them to household environments. There should be adequate food and water for all animals on the premises. Kennels should be cleaned daily. Although it may be that a dog had an accident just before you arrived, be suspicious of a kennel that looks like it hasn't been cleaned recently. If a breeder doesn't have a return policy, it suggests they don't really care what happens to their dogs once they leave their property. That's not a good sign! Also find out what kind of documentation you would get with your puppy. Would you get registration papers and pedigree papers? Negotiate for what you want if it's not included in the contract. Be very wary of a breeder who will not discuss the chance that a puppy may need to be returned. Does the contract require you to take the puppy for a vet visit within a set time? Does it cover hereditary issues for life? For only a certain period of time? What does the breeder agree to offer? Trade for another puppy when one is available? Are there restrictions on the activities you can do with your dog that will invalidate the contract or guarantee? Are you purchasing a show prospect puppy or a pet quality animal? Does the breeder have strong feelings or even bans about the vaccinations, foods or supplements for your puppy? Are these opinions based on solid science? Of course, you have already read a lot of books with advice on how to choose the right puppy of a German Shepherd, east European, as well as a Newfoundland, Rottweiler, Spaniel, or Spitz puppy. You understand what is the fundamental difference between these breeds and why a Retriever puppy will never become a VIP bodyguard, and a black terrier will hardly ever pass for a draft husky. Why Opting For a German Shepherd Puppy Is a Good Choice The German Shepherd is prone to learning from a very young to deep old age, while many other breeds cannot boast of this, even if their appearance is more perfect than that of a German Shepherd. The most well-known characteristics that a German Shepherd owns are: pronounced protective and guarding instinct; the ability to make independent decisions, and active actions, and at the same time be completely submissive to the owner; sociability, playfulness, and curiosity; lack of aggression signs towards others and deep affection for the owner; a willingness to happily take on tasks, learn, and remain completely fearless when faced with unfamiliar surroundings or unforeseen difficulties; In addition, the Shepherd dog is calmly confident and features strong nerves, combativeness, and assertiveness which are the main qualities of a good service dog. Perhaps, due to this set of breed characteristics, few larger and more ferocious breeds can compete with a GS, both for guarding the house and as a personal protector. It is not recommended to take puppies under 4 weeks old from their mother. This applies not only to GSs but other breeds. At the age of one month, the baby has already been given all the necessary vaccinations. However, only a person who can devote a lot of time to raising a puppy can afford to take a Shepherd at such a young age. In addition to 6 meals a day, and socialization, the new owner will need to complete 1, different tasks, which require, above all, a lot of time. If there is no time, it is worth finding a puppy aged 4 to 6 months. And it is advisable to take such a teenager from a nursery that focuses on breeding German Shepherds and not all the breeds at once. It happens that a puppy stays in the nursery because the money deposit was given for it but, for some reason, people could not pick up the reserved puppy. If the grown-up German Shepherd puppy constantly lived in an aviary and was deprived of close contact with people and the outside world, owners who have not previously dealt with this breed should not choose such a youngster. These young dogs are for experienced cinologysts. Lack of socialization can be corrected but it cannot be fully eliminated. Testing for the Puppy and Its Future Owner You may already know how to choose a purebred German Shepherd by external signs under the age of 3 months. Simple tests will help you choose a puppy with the desired character. Visit the breeder at a predetermined time when the puppies do not sleep or, conversely, are not hungry. You are taking a future friend for life, and enthusiastic emotions with such a choice are inappropriate. When buying a new friend, inspect the litter meticulously. Pay attention to the following: eyes do not water; traces of diarrhea under the tails are not observed; wet noses are without purulent crusts; legs are straight and strong; fur is clean, reminding of the plush; on the skin under the coat, there are no signs of peeling and scabs; all puppies are active and well-fed; the body is elastic and strong to the touch; the puppy has a pleasant dog smell; the mother is not exhausted; bowls and bedding are clean; there is enough heat and light. Of course, the owner of the dog mother has already taken her to the next room. Those who paid attention to the unusual sound are yours. Throw carefully, of course a tennis ball at the puppies. Those who were not afraid and did not try to escape are yours. Those who, having scouted the situation, did not begin to whine , pressing themselves onto the floor, but hurried towards the bedding are yours. Pay attention to those who have shown interest in a new object. The best are those who took and dragged it. Keys and money are the dirtiest household items. This testing method was used 20 years ago. Today, it is dangerous for the health of puppies! Invite those who dragged the rubber duck to pull a piece of fabric. If the baby dog willingly starts the fight, not letting the cloth go when you pull it towards you, they are good boys or girls. Turn the puppy you like on its back and hold it with an open palm for a few seconds. A clear alpha leader is easy to identify by its non-calming behavior for seconds, and even trying to bite you in this position. It may not be your choice! You will get too many problems associated with the puppy, or it will never be possible to completely subdue it. The puppy that squealed, pulled back its paw, and did not lose its interest in you is yours. The one who barks trying to drive brothers and sisters away from the bowl is not for you. The one who gives up its place at the feeder is also not yours. Yours is the one who, regardless of the obstacles, has taken its place and calmly devours food, without moving from its point, snapping, and running around the bowl. Now, you have at best 2 or 3 puppies left in front of you. You need to select the fat-footed one who will try to get out through the opening without panic and squealing. The tests are simple, but they will allow you to select a good puppy and raise a real working German Shepherd from it without unnecessary costs and nerves. Talk to the breeder. Such puppies are sold at a more reasonable price, but the puppy card for them is mandatory to be filled out as well. If you are given puppies for free, in the absence of their mother, there is a reason to seriously consider whether it is a Shepherd dog at all, even if their mother has pedigree documents. This is not a dog of one owner! The versatility and flexibility of this breed are proven by the fact that GSs accept a new family and a new environment without any problems. The main thing for it is to have its own business — to serve a human! Of course, parting with the former owner seriously affects the condition of the dog, but it will not have a destructive effect on its psyche. And the sooner you engage the German Shepherd in work, the more chances you will have to become a new God for it. If the German Shepherd was properly brought up and grew up surrounded by people, it has working characteristics in good conditions, and the reputation of its previous owner is beyond all questions, such a dog will be quite useful to your family. Finding out the previous story and background of an adult GS why it is refused, what the complaints about its behavior are, and other prompting questions is a must! The reason may be the saddest and most trivial — the previous owner died, and relatives are not able to either support or care for the dog. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. Below I'll list a few tips to help you choose your own GSD puppy by considering the following things, in no particular order: 1 Carefully look at the puppy's parents, all the littermates and any other relatives onsite - It's really important to make sure that both parents are friendly, healthy and active. One important thing to keep in mind, many nursing bitches can be a little "down" and maybe even undernourished when feeding a large litter of puppies, however she should still be friendly and curious about you. Another important tip: make sure both parents have been OFA certified. Chances are very high that you may regret bringing home a sickly puppy later. Overall, young German shepherd puppies should be playful, clean and odor-free, full bodied but not too chunky and have bright clear eyes, a clean nose, clean anus and a full hair coat no mats or bald patches. All puppies of any kind need their mothers very early on. They need them to nurse and they also need them as teachers to model behaviors for the puppy that they will need to know later on in life. It is also important to make sure that the puppies have gotten all their first vaccinations and wormings. Overall, the best time to get a German Shepherd puppy is basically sometime between eight to twelve weeks of age. If you find a GSD puppy that you want and is older than twelve to fourteen weeks just make sure that it has been received a lot of socialization with people and other "critters". The overall setup of the kennel area should be that of a well kept area for all the dogs and puppies. Never buy a puppy from a breeder that keeps their animals in dirty, filthy or nasty conditions. If you sincerely feel as if something is not right with the breeder, the breeders objective in selling the puppies, the surroundings or the puppy itself, step back. Give yourself time to really think about the entire situation. You never want to get a puppy of any kind on impulse! When you bring that new GSD puppy home, you want to be confident in the fact that the entire process of choosing a German Shepherd Puppy has been as stress free as possible and that you have just made the best choice for both you and your new GSD puppy because this is a new relationship that can last, easily, eight years or more. They had little pictures of cats on them. Then I took one out and he ran around in circles. This guide will help you learn how to select the best German Shepherd puppy to add to your family. Is a German Shepherd right for me? This is the first question you should ask yourself before you even consider bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy. You need to evaluate your personal and family lifestyle by asking yourself the following questions: Where do you live? German Shepherds are often on the restricted breed list for apartments. Do you spend much of your time at home, or do you have an active work and social life? Are you willing to spend more time at home on the weekends and evenings during puppyhood, even if it means missing social events? Do you love traveling a lot? If so, will you take your puppy with you? If not, do you have someone or someplace you trust to watch your dog when you travel? Is your whole family excited about the idea of a new German Shepherd puppy? Are you already active or willing to become more active? Do you have time in your schedule to devote to training? Knowing the answers to those questions will help get you a couple of steps closer to deciding whether or not a German Shepherd is the right choice for you. Important things to know about German Shepherds: German Shepherd dogs are sometimes affectionately known as German shedders. German Shepherds shed all year long , however, they blow their coats twice a year during which time they will shed exponentially more. When considering getting this breed, you should be comfortable having a dog that sheds. Trimming their nails , cleaning their ears, brushing their teeth, and brushing their coat regularly is sufficient. Of course, during the shedding seasons more frequent brushing will be needed. German Shepherds were originally developed for herding sheep. Accordingly, they have the desire to work and respond best to proper training from a young age, and an active lifestyle. German Shepherds are known to be clingy, so be prepared to have a shadow following you around the house and maybe even in the restroom. German Shepherds are good with kids and are great family dogs. However, they need proper socialization and training at a young age so they can learn how to behave around both kids and adults. German Shepherds require a lot of mental stimulation and have high energy levels, especially as a puppy. As much as I love Allie, she was more than a handful as a puppy. I have seen instances where people underestimate the time, energy, and training a German Shepherd puppy requires and get overwhelmed after bringing their puppy home. These people end up giving up their puppies. It breaks my heart to know these awesome dogs are given up because of a lack of knowledge when selecting a breed of dog. Although they are a handful if you are willing to put in the effort they are in my opinion one of the best breeds of dog to own. German Shepherds are too smart for their own good. They learn things scary fast and sometimes get themselves into trouble because of how smart they are. They learn your routine and habits, and they also learn when and how they can get away with mischief. German Shepherds are incredibly loyal and become very connected to their owners and family. German Shepherds are typically loving and affectionate. From the second I met Allie she greeted me with a wet tongue to the face. That is still her favorite greeting she will kiss anyone that will allow her to get close enough. German Shepherds need training. They need to know that you are the leader and in charge. If not, they will quickly take over the role of being in charge and that is where problems arise. A bored, untrained, not active German Shepherd can become one of the stories you sometimes hear on the news about a GSD being aggressive. In most of those cases, the problem was with the owners and not the dog breed as a whole. Adoption or Breeder? First, you need to decide if you are going to adopt a German Shepherd puppy or buy one from a breeder. Here are some of the benefits of adopting: Rescue puppies are often already sociable, at least partially trained, and loving dogs. Therefore, you will save a lot of time on house training your new puppy. Older puppies or dogs are likely to be calmer than a younger puppy. You are saving the life of a dog that might not have otherwise found a home. The cost of adopting is typically much cheaper than buying a puppy from a breeder. If you decide to get a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder, here are a few things that can help you identify a good, ethical German Shepherd breeder: Ethical breeders care about the health and wellbeing of the puppy and are not just in the business for money. Ethical breeders always make sure that only healthy dogs breed together and follow a strict breeding program where they ensure that breeding and puppy spaces are clean. They should also have papers showing the age of the parent and the family tree of the puppy. Ethical breeders will happily show you around their entire setup; they should have nothing to hide. Ethical breeders will happily answer as many questions as you have to ask. You want to select one that will be compatible with you and your family. Consider the following when picking a puppy from the litter: Choose a puppy that is sociable around you and other puppies. Pick a puppy that walks confidently with its head high and tail up and wagging. Choose a puppy that has clear eyes, ears , and teeth, walks evenly, and appears clean. Basically, choose a puppy that looks healthy. Look at the personalities of the puppies. Choose a welcoming puppy that wants to greet you as opposed to one that retreats or appears shy. Ask to interact with each puppy one by one after seeing them with their littermates. That way you can get a better sense of how the puppy responds to you without distractions. If possible, visit the litter at least three times before making a final decision, this will allow you to determine the personalities of each of those little fluff balls, and see which would best fit into your family. How old should a German Shepherd puppy be when you take it home? Any puppy should be at least 8 weeks old before being separated from their mother. By this timeline, their sensory organs will have also developed fully which will help you to spot any deformities or medical issues. Be wary of any breeder that will allow you to take your puppy home before 8 weeks old. How do you puppy proof for German Shepherds? German Shepherds are naturally active and tend to explore the world with their mouths, especially during their adolescent period. So, before you can bring your new puppy home, there are a few things you can do to puppy-proof your house: Get rid of any poisonous plants or put them out of reach of your new puppy. Cover electrical cords with cable wraps or PVC pipes. Buy a new laundry basket that has a lid, no holes, and is tall. Make sure both your kitchen and bathroom trash cans have lids. Your new puppy will dig around for anything to bite, like chicken bones, diapers, used hygienic products, or even a disposable razor. If possible, you should buy new trash cans that only open when a button is pressed. Store all the chemicals in secured cabinets or even better on high shelves. German Shepherd puppies have strong teeth and can open plastic containers by biting through even the toughest of plastic! Put away any small items or toys that are small enough for your puppy to swallow. Think of small kid toys like Legos or dollhouse furniture that could be dangerous for a curious puppy. Find a safe spot for your shoes. Whether in a closed closet or in the laundry room behind a closed door. I remember losing a pair of brand-new shoes because I forgot to put them away and Allie thought chewing them was a fun idea. Bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy The period of bringing a new German Shepherd puppy home and introducing them to your home and family takes time and above all, patience. If possible, plan to take off work for at least a few days after bringing your puppy home. I picked up Allie on a Saturday, and then took most of the following week off to spend time getting her adjusted to her new home. Remember, your new puppy has been taken from the only family it knew, and you are now their new family. That first week home was a good week of bonding with Allie. It helped her feel comfortable with her new life and allowed me to really get to know my new beautiful energy filled puppy. The best tip for a smooth transition when bringing your German Shepherd puppy home is to begin crate training and potty training as soon as possible. As a breed prone to separation anxiety , you want to give your GSD a zone to feel safe, comfortable, and content to be on their own. While the initial steps of crate training can be time-consuming, it can make the difference between a dog that is a joy to own, and one that can never be left on their own — so, be the dog parent your pooch deserves and put the time in! New German Shepherd puppy checklist and things to buy It is important that your new puppy feels welcomed into their new home. Some items are ok to be left with your puppy, and other items are more dangerous or will be destroyed. This checklist will help you to know what to buy when getting a puppy. New German Shepherd Puppy Checklist. One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a German Shepherd puppy is what their personality and temperament are like. German Shepherds are just like people. They each have their own personalities, and some are able to get along with other dogs better than others. In fact, how your German Shepherd puppy interacts with other dogs and people will mostly come down to their individual personality. This will mean that your German Shepherd puppy will need less training, and a lot of your interactions with one another will come more naturally. The best puppy for your home may not be the biggest, prettiest dog in the litter! How to get started Before you can worry about choosing the best German Shepherd puppy for your home, you will need to find a breeder. You will need to opt for a German Shepherd breeder who has a good reputation. So you will need to do your research to find the right breeder for your needs. You may even need to travel a fair way to find the perfect breeder. Even if your German Shepherd breeder is located several states away, it will be worth the trip. If you put in the right amount of time and effort now, it should pay dividends throughout the next few years. Here are a few handy tips to help you find the right breeder to buy a German Shepherd puppy from. Talk to your German Shepherd breeder One of the first things you should do is to give the German Shepherd breeder a call. You may be surprised to learn that quality breeders will actually require this to ensure that the puppy is going to a good home. They may not be as interested in the health of the puppy and their new home as they should be, and are more concerned about making a profit from their dogs. The breeder will want to ensure that you have the right space to accommodate your German Shepherd puppy. Have you got any kids? Training your new puppy and giving them the right amount of socialization will be essential for keeping your family safe. Do you have a fenced outdoor space? Your puppy will need to have a good amount of room so they can run around and play. They will need regular exercise to stay fit and healthy. Why do you want a German Shepherd? The breeder will want to know what purpose you want a German Shepherd puppy for. It could be as a pet, for added protection, or to show competitively. Do you have any other pets? This will be an important factor as you will need to know how to introduce your new puppy to other animals. It will also be crucial to know if you have any other pets which could pose a danger to the puppy. What do you do for a living? If you have to work away for long periods of time so that your puppy is left alone for large portions of the day, the breeder will want to know this. Can you afford the financial responsibility of this puppy? Dogs are a financial commitment. This may seem like too much of a personal question, however, it will be important to establish that you can properly care for your new dog. Questions you can ask your breeder There are far too many unethical breeders around. Some irresponsible breeders will take shortcuts when it comes to breeding, which will leave you with dogs who have behavioral and health issues. Do you raise other breeds of dog? This can show you whether they have been bred from healthy dogs. Have you got any references? A good quality breeder should be able to give you these easily enough. Have you got a pedigree for the puppies? This is essentially a family tree of the puppies. A good quality breeder should be able to produce the proper lineage of your new puppy when asked. If the breeder attempts to charge you for this, or says they will give it to you another time, be very wary. Every breeder worth their salt will give you this guarantee as a written contract. How often do you breed your females in a single year? This will allow them to properly recover from giving birth, and help to maintain great health. Have you got a detailed medical history for the puppies? A reputable breeder should be able to give you proof of any health screenings that their puppies have had. This is essential for healthy dogs. Could you explain to me if German Shepherds have any health issues they may suffer from as adults? Puppies should never be taken home if they are less than 8 weeks old. In fact, more than half of the states in America have laws to prevent this from happening. There are several laws which dictate how old a puppy needs to be before it can be adopted or sold. There are only 3 which actually allow puppies to be sold under 8 weeks old: D. These laws are in place for a reason. This is to ensure that all puppies have been properly weaned from their mothers and that they are able to eat without help. Puppies will also need to have been properly socialized before they can leave their mothers. Their mothers and siblings can help to socialize the puppy properly. Most of the behavioral problems in adult dogs can be traced back to this lack of discipline and not having been socialized properly. To make sure that you have a healthy puppy, you will need to choose a puppy that is being sold in accordance with the laws of their state. This will mean buying a puppy that is at least 8 weeks old, if not older. Even if you happen to find a puppy in D. Male or female puppy Perhaps you already have a preference for the gender of your puppy. You will need to understand that the two genders actually have distinct differences. Here are a few things for you to consider to help you make a fully informed choice. Female German Shepherds 1. Physical appearance Typically, female German Shepherds will be much smaller than males. They will also have a less muscular stature. Dominance A female dog will display less behavioral dominance than a male dog will. Family bonding Female German Shepherds are more likely to bond with the whole family rather than a single individual. Territorial A female German Shepherd will be much less territorial than a male dog will be. Male German Shepherds Male dogs will tend to be much larger than females. They are also more muscular. Dominance Males will display a lot more dominance than females. Single person bonding A male German Shepherd is more likely to bond very closely with a single person instead of a whole family. Territorial A male German Shepherd is more likely to be territorial. This means they could be more likely to wander off in an attempt to expand their home turf. Possessive These males tend to be on the more possessive side than their female counterparts. This could be over their food, their favorite toys, or even you. It will be important to give them correct training to teach them not to be aggressive towards you. They should be able to socialize better with others, too. But the best way to find out if your prospective puppy will be the right fit for your home is to do some proactive investigating. This can also be a great indicator of their future behavior, too. You should never force the interaction. If the puppy is reluctant to come near you and interact with you, then you will be better off choosing a different pup. Tests for your German shepherd puppy 1. Eye contact When you look directly at your puppy, does it look back at you? If your puppy stares back at you, this is showing confidence. If your puppy avoids eye contact then it may be anxious, scared, or have a vision issue. Clapping your hands This can indicate how social your puppy is. If it comes towards you and tries to interact with you, this is a great sign. This shows that the dog is eager to socialize with people. Call out to the puppy Do they come towards you at the sound of your voice? This is a fantastic sign. Pet the dog It will be important to note how the puppy interacts with your physical touch. If the puppy is affectionate and loving, this will be another great sign. If they bite or growl at you, this will likely be an indication of a bad temperament. The dog will have to be trained out of this. Play ball Bring a ball with you when you meet your puppy. Roll this towards the dog and see how the puppy interacts with it. Does the puppy follow the ball? Bring it back to you? Or does the dog keep the ball for itself? Puppies that are more dominant will keep the ball for themselves. They will also be reluctant to give the toy back to you. A more submissive puppy is likely to be frightened of the ball coming towards them. A more independent dog will likely show very little interest, if they show any at all. Puppies with an even temperament will show some interest in the ball, will play with it, but will also be willing for you to play a part of the game without showing any aggression. Searching for a more sociable dog? Keep an eye out for the puppy that brings the ball right back to you and asks you to play more. This puppy will be a fantastic candidate for training as well as other exercises. Roll the puppy When the puppy has come over to you, you can try to gently roll them onto their back, then hold them in place. Watch how the puppy reacts to you. Do they relax under your touch, or do they resist you? A dominant puppy will be more likely to resist you. It could even try to bite you or growl at you. An even-tempered puppy will resist at first, but will submit to you after a short time. Pick up your puppy You can physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it under its chest with an open hand. Lift the puppy up, and see what it does. Does the puppy stay relaxed or does it struggle? A struggling dog is likely to be dominant or scared. A puppy that stays perfectly relaxed is showing that it trusts you and that it is confident. This is a similar test to holding the puppy on its back. Chances are the puppy will react immediately. Any resistance or trying to pull their paw away from you could be a sign of an aggressive temperament or dominance. A puppy that accepts your actions will show a more submissive temperament. They could even lick you! Create an unexpected noise This could just be a sudden shout or banging some pots and pans. The important factor will be watching how the puppy reacts to a sudden noise. Do they show interest? Are they scared? Aggressive puppies could try and bite you and growl at you. Visit the puppy parents Most breeders will have both puppy parents in the same place. Some of them may only have the mother with the puppies because the father was on loan from a stud or a different breeder. Either way, the mother of your puppy should be with them when you pay the dogs a visit. If one of the parents appears aggressive, this could show you that you need to do some more training with your new puppy. A dog that displays more dominant tendencies will need proper training to take the edge off these behaviors. Choosing a female German Shepherd will also be a good choice. Puppies will have their off days, just like humans do. It will be important to visit your new puppy a few times and spend at least 30 minutes with them so that you can see what they will be like. They will likely prefer it to someone who only pays their puppy one visit before collecting them! This is a good indicator that the breeder wants their dogs to be matched with the right owners. If there are other people in your household who will be living with the German shepherd puppy, such as kids or a partner, you will need to bring them along, too. Your new puppy will need to get accustomed to the people it will be spending time with. It will be much easier to transition your puppy to living in your home. You should also bring some treats along for your new puppy each time you visit. These are all positive reinforcements that can allow your new puppy to get used to you and encourage them to bond with you. It will also be a good idea to bring something with you that you can leave behind for the puppy. This could be a new toy or a blanket that smells like you. This will allow the puppy to get used to your smell, which can also make the transition easier. They will also be very well acquainted with the mother of the puppies and have knowledge of the father. So your breeder should be able to help you choose the right puppy for your needs, and match the right personality to you. In summary So there you have it! Choosing the right German Shepherd puppy for your needs is certainly more challenging than it first appears. The most important goal is to choose the right dog that will fit in well with you and your family. As long as you do the proper research beforehand, you should be able to find the right dog for your home. Remember to ask the right questions when you find your breeder to make sure that they are a good person to buy a dog from. Be sure to visit your new puppy several times before you bring them home. As long as you take this responsibility seriously, you will have laid the perfect foundation for a fruitful relationship with your new puppy. Final thoughts Where do I start? The first thing that you have to do before you can pick out the best puppy, is to pick out the best breeder. This may come easily, as you may already have a breeder in mind that you trust and who has a good reputation. But chances are that you will have to do your research. And there is also a good chance that you may need to travel some distance to the right breeder. Even if the breeder is several states away, consider making the trip. Getting a new GSD puppy is a significant life commitment. The effort and time that you invest now in going about this properly will pay off for years to come. Here are some important things to look for in a breeder once you locate one that you are interested in pursuing. Call the breeder and have a conversation The first thing to do is call the breeder and have a conversation. A quality German Shepherd breeder will actually require this. They will not permit someone to just show up and purchase one of their dogs and take it home. They will ask you questions such as: Why do you want a GSD puppy? This will aid them in helping you choose. Where do you live, in an apartment or in a home? They will want to ensure that the puppy will not be in a cramped space. Do you have a yard, and is it fenced-in? They will want to make sure that the puppy will have adequate room to exercise as it grows. Do you have children in your home? They will want to make sure that you understand the importance of socialization and training to keep your family safe. Do you have other pets in your home? They will want to make sure that you know how to properly introduce the puppy to other animals, and whether any other pets you have may actually be a danger to the puppy. What type of work do you do, does it require you to be away from home for long periods of time? Because GSDs do not do well alone, they will want to make sure that you have adequate time to devote to your dog. Are you financially prepared to take on a GSD? While this may be a bit of a personal question, it is important to know that you are financially able to care for a GSD. They are expensive to care for, and it is fair for a breeder to ask this question. If a breeder does not ask you some form of these questions, then perhaps think twice. It may be an indication that they are more interested in profit than raising a quality puppy that they care will go to a quality home. Questions for you to ask the breeder: How many different types of dogs do you raise? Can you provide me with a pedigree of all of your puppies? A pedigree is essentially a family tree for your puppy. A good breeder should have a detailed pedigree for any dog they sell. Beware of any breeder that wants to charge for this or says that they will provide it at a later date. Do you have references? They should provide you with several without thinking twice. All reputable breeders will offer this guarantee in the form of a written contract. Do you breed your females more than once a year? Female GSDs should not be bred more than one time per year. This allows for adequate recovery time and maintains good health. Can you provide me with a detailed medical history for your puppies? Health screenings are essential for puppies, and a reputable breeder should be able to provide proof of these. Can you explain any potential health issues for GSD which may come up later in life? A knowledgable breeder should be able to clearly explain conditions like hip dysplasia and other health issues more common in GSDs than other dogs. If the answer to any of these questions comes up as unsatisfactory, move on. It is simply not worth the risk of pursuing the breeder any further. Unfortunately, there are far too many unethical breeders who take a lot of shortcuts which results in dogs prone to both health and behavioral issues. Why is this? You should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. More than half of the states in the U. And out of those states, only 3 permit a puppy to be offered for sale under the age of 8 weeks. The reason for these laws is primarily so that puppies are properly weaned from their mothers and able to eat on their own. In addition to weaning, puppies need to be initially socialized by their mothers as well as their siblings. So a puppy will be taught that these things are bad during these 8 weeks. If you remove a puppy from the litter too early, they may not learn these lessons and develop behavioral problems as they get older. Much like a spoiled child that never learns, often times the source of an ill-behaved puppy can be traced to a lack of discipline at a young age. So to ensure that you have a healthy puppy, that is also sold in accordance with state laws and regulations, understand that it must be 8 weeks old see link above for exceptions — regardless of state law exceptions, waiting 8 weeks is good practice. Decide whether you want to male or female You may have a personal preference for either a female or a male German Shepherd puppy. It is important however to not necessarily just go with your gut on this one. Take a moment and understand some general differences between the two genders. I will explore this issue more in-depth in another post, but here are some important general points to consider. Territorial: Males are naturally more territorial than females. This may give them more of a tendency to wander off in an effort to broaden their territory. Very possessive: Male GSDs are generally more possessive than females. They may be possessive over food and bones, toys, and you! Dominance: Male German Shepherds tend to be more dominant than females. This may result in more of a proclivity towards aggressive bullying behaviors to make sure that it is understood that they are the boss. Dominance requires training to keep it in check. Singular bonding: Male GSDs tend to bond more closely with one person rather than a group of people like a family. Territorial: Females are therefore more welcoming and less territorial than males. They are also less likely to wander off as they have no desire to expand their territory. Dominance: Females display less dominant behaviors than males. Non-singular bonding: Females are more likely to bond with a number of people in a family rather than an individual person. So, how do I choose between the two? This question comes down to the purpose for which you want a German Shepherd. If you are looking for a dog to have trained in protection and are looking primarily for a four-legged security system for your home, then a male is a good choice. However, if your primary interest is to just have a family pet that socializes well with others, then a female is probably right for you. Testing the puppy There is no better way to determine whether or not a specific puppy is the right one for you than to actually get hands-on and doing some investigating. However, even before you begin any interactions with a puppy, make sure that you are testing the correct one. Never try and force any interaction, begin with puppies that are naturally drawn to you. Just like with people, you cannot force a match and expect fruitful results. So be patient and make sure at very least that the puppy is not aversive toward you before you being. The tests: Clap your hands: Does it run away or does it come? A more timid dog may, however, be apprehensive to approach. Make eye contact: When the puppy is looked at, does it stare back at you? If the puppy looks directly at you, it is showing confidence. Vocally call the puppy over to you: Does it come to you right away? If it does how not, however, this could show a behavioral issue or hearing problem, or it could be an indication of another illness as well. Pet the puppy: How does it respond to your touch? However, if it meets your touches with biting or growling, then this is likely an indication of an uneven or bad temperament. It will not just grow out of this, it will have to be trained out of it. Bring a ball with you to test with the puppy: Roll the ball and see what the puppy does. Does it follow it and then bring it to you? Or does it take it away for itself. A more dominant puppy will just take the ball and keep it for itself, reluctant to give it back to you. On the other hand, a more independent puppy may show no interest at all. And one that is submissive may actually be frightened. If you are looking for a very sociable puppy, look for the one that brings the ball right back to you to play some more. The puppy that brings it right back is also an ideal candidate for training in retrieving and other exercises. An even-tempered puppy will show interest in and play with the toy, but it will also allow you to participate and take the toy back without showing you any aggression. Roll the puppy over: Once the puppy comes over to you, gently roll it onto its back and hold it in place. Do not be forceful but be firm. See how the puppy reacts. Is it resisting, or is it just relaxing? A puppy with a more dominant personality will take the path of most resistance, and it may growl or attempt to bite at you. And the even-tempered puppy is the one that may resist for a short time but then submit to what you are doing. Pick up the puppy: Physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it underneath its chest with an open hand. Lift it up high, even above the height of your head and hold it there. What does the puppy do? Does it struggle, or does it stay relaxed? A puppy that struggles may be fearful or dominant. On the other hand, a puppy that stays absolutely relaxed is displaying confidence in itself and trust in you. Hold on to a paw and press it gently: This is somewhat similar to holding it on its back. If there is a response to be had, it will happen immediately. Resistance or pulling the paw away may show dominance and temperament towards aggression. The even-tempered puppy will be you curious as to what you are doing. It may investigate a little and might even lick you. Make an unexpected noise: Whether it is banging a pot and pan together or just yelling, create an unexpected noise. See what the puppy does, does it show fear, interest, or aggression? A fearful puppy may run away or even whimper. While an aggressive-tempered puppy may actually growl and try to bite you. An even-tempered puppy will simply look surprised, and may even want to investigate a little bit further. Meet the parents A lot of breeders will have both the father sire and the mother bitch of the puppies on site. However, some of them will only have the mother because sometimes the father is on loan as a stud from a different breeder. But the mother for sure should be on site, and you should get an idea of what she is like. In the case of my last German Shepherd, I was able to meet both parents. His mother was very kind and sociable and eager to be petted. While on the other hand, his father was clearly dominant, and not a dog to be messed with. Because of my prior experience and knowledge, my GSD turned out exactly as I thought he would — fairly sociable yet wildly protective of me. This was all right because I knew what to expect and I was able to train my dog properly to take the edge off of some of his more dominance behaviors. However, my choice was an informed decision based on years of experience. If you are new to owning a German Shepherd, this may not be an ideal combination. I would recommend for a new German Shepherd owner to consider making sure that both parents are more docile, and possibly even lean towards acquiring a female for your first German Shepherd. Visit the puppy on more than one occasion Just like people, puppies have their on days and their off days. You will not be able to get a very accurate picture of how your puppy will be on one short visit. In fact, with my last dog, I visited him at least 4 times and stayed for at least 30 minutes with him each time prior to taking him home. A good breeder will have no issue with you doing this, and in fact, will prefer it. They want their dogs to be well-matched with their new owners, so this is common practice. The puppy should become accustomed to the people it will soon be spending its entire life with. So the more familiarity that you build now in this phase, the easier that puppy will transition to home life with you and your family. All of these steps are positive reinforcement for your new puppy and will build familiarity and a bond even before you arrive home. Also, bring a small blanket or clothing item and ask the breeder to leave it with the puppy. This will allow your puppy to become familiar with the scent of you and your home. Making for a better transition. So by default, this knowledge enables the breeder to be very good at placing the proper puppies with the proper personalities. Remember to stay focused and not lose sight of your primary objective, which is to select the right puppy for you and your family. If you take the time and care to do your research and ask the right questions, you will come together with the right puppy for you. But remember, this is just the beginning of a major life commitment. So take this step of choosing the right GSD puppy seriously, and you will have laid the foundation for a loving and rewarding relationship for years to come. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.

Aggression in Labradors Dealing with Aggression Labradors are not usually an aggressive variety. However, there are several factors which may contribute to aggression in labradors. Personality and genetic disposition are not usually the main influences. The early life experience of pups in the 'first fear imprint period, Aggression against the pup by family members or other household pets is highly influential to the way that a dog will respond throughout its life. The secondary influences include sex, age, size, hormonal variation during pregnancy and anxiety. Anxiety in pups must be placated with secure affection and positive discipline. Socialisation from 8 weeks of age is also critical for the healthy development. Do not use physical punishment. This can increase the intensity of your dog's aggression. For general health reason, particularly in later life, we do not recommend this prior to 8 months of age. Types of Aggression Animal behaviouralists classify patterns of behavior and the circumstances in which they occur. This is done to determine the dog's motivation and the cause of the behaviour: Dog to dog - Pack order aggression is one of the most common forms of aggression in dogs. They are pack animals, and they relate to humans as members of their own pack. If your dogs are fighting, do not get in the middle. Interrupt the aggression using water in a spray bottle. Dog to human aggression occurs as the result of intimidation or physical intervention by people, your and old, adult and child. Redirected aggression can occur when an aggressive dog, particularly a male that redirects its aggression from the source to another. When an owner is restraining a dog by pulling him back the dog may retaliate. Dominant dogs often redirect their aggression towards pack subordinates or children of equal size or smaller. Dominant dogs will defend their pack area including a home, room or yard. House and feed your dogs separately if they are fighting with each other. Remove contentious objects like bones and toys. Gender aggression particularly between adult males involves territorial and dominance disputes. Inter-female aggression occurs most frequently between adult females living in the same household. This will be apparent if one female is pregnant. Predatorial aggression is directed towards quick-moving stimulus, like a car or bike. Anything considers as prey, usually other weaker species can be the object of this aggression. Pain induced aggression occurs when a person attempts to touch a painful area or when injections are given. Fear induced aggression occurs when when the dog senses that it is cornered or trapped and cannot escape. A fearful dog is often the victim of an owner uses severe punishment common. Active and unpredictable children may induce this type of aggression. Never allow small children to have unsupervised access to any dog no matter how passive the dog may appear. Children and adults should avoid interacting with dogs that are eating. They should never tease or hurt dogs. Keep your dog confined when unfamiliar children are present Maternal aggression may be directed toward anyone that approaches a bitch with puppies or in false pregnancy. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. I have 7 mo old ladies from the same litter and we've avoided any real fighting and their play has evolved leagues from when we got them. First month they just couldn't do off leash play outside without getting over threshold so we just ceased that till later. I was unaware of this problem when we adopted but read a lot and consulted other trainers. We seperated them entirely for a month aside from an hour or two in the evening with us in a playpenned living room. They did not like this at first. Once we noticed that in the evening playpen sessions they were responding to obedience commands and maintaining eye contact while with each other we moved on to weekend walks together, and monitored play sessions in a fenced yard. They tend to play well for a few sessions then I'll have to cut one short if one starts to bully up volume, not taking breaks in play when the other submits or bows out for a moment i just use a lead and take one out. If it persists we just go home and chill out. It gets better and the moments of over stimulation are getting less frequent. Indoors we never had much issue but we made a floor layout without a lot of wide open space so they can't cage match or run about much. Limiting their speed seemed to end any loud play. Reviewed by Jennifer Coates Dr. Jennifer Coates, DVM, is an accomplished veterinarian and writer with more than 25 years of experience in veterinary medicine, animal welfare, and conservation. There's little more adorable than watching a group of puppies tussle with each other, but how can you know when the wrestling stops being playful and starts to become a true fight, though? What can you do if you have one puppy in particular that continues to take play time a little too far? Why Do Puppies Fight? Puppies learn normal social behavior, what is acceptable and okay and what is not, from interacting with other puppies. This starts even before puppies are weaned from their mother. Healthy play allows a pup to not only build a good foundation of socialization but it also helps them learn body language and other nonverbal behavioral cues. What they learn as puppies in regards to normal dog-on-dog behavior sets the ground work for skills they will utilize throughout their life. Being able to read body language and behavioral cues yourself is of utmost importance in order to differentiate puppy play from puppy fighting. Puppies that are engaged in healthy, happy play will be loose, having bounding, bouncy, sometimes exaggerated movements with a big, silly, open mouth. Healthy play between puppies has no winners or losers. Instead, there are constant role reversals where you may see the chaser become the chasee only to become the chaser again. You will also see puppies taking breaks from healthy play. Two puppies may be tussling on the ground one second and then getting up to go get a drink of water the next second. Puppies that are engaged in a fight will have markedly different behavioral cues and body language. Instead of loose, bounding movements they will become stiff and tense. You may even see their hackles raise up. Instead of a happy, open mouthed, tongue lolling face, they will tight lipped with either a snarl or a low, quiet growl. The ears will become flat and pinned back. If you happen to catch your puppy in a fight you want to separate the puppies as quickly and safely as possible. If your puppy has their leash and harness on them this usually can be done without much difficulty. You may get injured in the process. Instead, redirect them with other toys or try to momentarily distract the puppies with a loud noise, such as whistle or clap. How to Prevent Puppies from Fighting Puppies that are routinely getting into fights with other puppies may need more enrichment outside of puppy social hour. Finding a trainer is sometimes easier said than done. Unlike the world of veterinary medicine, the world of dog training is not regulated, either by federal or state guidelines. Anyone on the street can wake up one morning and decided they want to start training dogs but that does not necessarily mean they should. A good trainer will utilize science backed, evidence based methods. They will seek out different certifications in their field certifications that, again, are not required to call yourself a dog trainer and continuing education lectures and workshops to stay up to date with modern methods and current studies. One thing to definitely watch out for when finding a dog trainer is one that guarantees results or behavioral changes. Dogs, just like people, are all individuals and their personalities and behavior are as fluid as our own. For that reason, a trainer may be incredibly successful training a dog with one behavioral concern but that does not mean they will be able to successfully train all dogs with that same behavioral concern all the time. As with most things, if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Additional exercise, usually in the form of play time not involving other puppies, can also provide your puppy with a more appropriate outlet for aggressive play. Toys such as balls or stuffed toys allow you to play with your puppy from a distance and are perfect for this. A lot of puppy fights are not a result of an offensively aggressive puppy but rather a puppy that is just overstimulated and over aroused. Basically a puppy that is over aroused is just so excited about whatever is going on they cannot handle it and they pounce on whatever is nearby. Oftentimes over stimulation in puppies can be managed by increasing play time with their balls and stuffed toys. Puppies need playtime with one another in order for them to grow up into confident, well-adjusted dogs. Knowing how to tell when a healthy tussle has crossed over into a true fight and knowing appropriate outlets for more aggressive play, though, is just as important for setting your puppy up for success. If you suspect your pet is sick, call your vet immediately. For health-related questions, always consult your veterinarian, as they have examined your pet, know the pet's health history, and can make the best recommendations for your pet. More from The Spruce Pets. They love everyone. Sound familiar? The Reactive Labrador The reality is that there are individual Labradors who are reactive and use aggressive behavior at times. The reasons or motivations for their behavior will vary. But one thing is true of all of them: aggressive behavior is totally normal. All dogs can use aggression to a greater or lesser extent depending on their individual temperament and experiences. Just like every person can lose their temper or slam the occasional door in frustration. When working with a reactive and aggressive Labrador the aim is not to suppress the behavior. How we do that varies depending on the likely emotion underlying the reactive behavior. Warning Signs of Reactivity in Labradors Generally canine social etiquette is ritualised and aimed at diffusing tension and avoiding conflict; aggressive behavior carries a risk of injury and is therefore a last resort. Dogs will show early warning signs that they are feeling uncomfortable in a situation. These include turning or moving away, yawning, nose licking, and their pupils will dilate. If they are prevented from moving away, then they are likely to increase the intensity of their signals. Moving on to snapping and biting to get their point across. If the dog learns that the smaller signals are ignored, or if the intensity of the trigger is too high, then they will respond with the more overt behavior. They will start barking, rushing towards in an attempt to drive the trigger away, snapping and biting. The aggressive behavior in the image below is cued by the handler. These are a couple of the indications that this is a learned response. If the dog may be in pain then providing suitable pain relief is essential. Reactivity From Frustration Another common motivation for aggression, but one that is often mistaken or forgotten, is frustration. A frustrated dog is likely to show fewer of the lower level signals of discomfort. Although lip or nose licks are common in times of conflicted emotions such as wanting to greet but not being able do because of the lead, or a fence. If your Labrador is bouncing on the end of the lead, weight forward, ears pricked, tail up, and barking with a high pitch then they are likely to be a frustrated greeter. One who may behave more appropriately off lead when they can greet as they like. Many frustrated greeters, however, are socially inappropriate. Rushing at other dogs and ignoring any signs from them that they are less than enthusiastic about the approach of 30kg of happy Labrador. They may well end up being snapped at, or worse, by the dogs they bounce on. It is not uncommon for dogs whose reactivity manifests first as frustration to develop elements of fear-based aggression after being told off by other dogs for their social ineptitude, leading to considerable conflict of emotions around other dogs. Dogs who become extremely frustrated around other dogs, or when denied things that they want, may well redirect their frustration on to the nearest object they can find. The lead, the person or dog standing next to them, or a toy if one is available. Providing a suitable outlet such as a tug toy is one way to manage the situation in an emergency. Does Predation Create an Aggressive Labrador? It is worth mentioning that predation is also a common motivation for aggressive behavior. Labradors are not traditionally associated with catching and killing prey. But actually it is not unusual to meet dogs who are aroused by fast moving objects. Such as bicycles, running people and the more obvious small furry animals and birds in our fields and hedgerows. Again, if the desire to chase is thwarted then any resulting aggressive behavior may well be frustration-related. This is despite predation being the initial motivation for the behavior. Is Reactivity in Dogs Medical? There are several techniques that can be used to modify aggressive Labrador responses. Before considering any of them it is essential to rule out any underlying medical issue. Pain or illness which may be contributing to the aggressive behavior. Pain is the most obvious cause. So if your dog appears stiff, reluctant to move or uncomfortable at times then discuss this with your vet. It can help to take video of the movement, gait, or situations that concern you. This will mean that your vet can see exactly what is happening, in a way they cannot recreate in clinic. Even if a clinical exam does not identify a source of potential pain it can be beneficial to trial a short course of pain relief. Make sure you note any changes in behavior or movement. Pain which occurs when playing with other dogs can often be at the root of the onset of dog:dog aggression; equally aggression towards people can be triggered by pain or the fear of pain on being stroked, or moved from a resting spot. As well as pain there are medical issues which in themselves increase the likelihood of aggressive behavior so a thorough vet check is essential. Especially in cases where you seem to have an aggressive Labrador without warning. The behavior has developed suddenly. This helps them relax and improves their general welfare. They are no longer on edge anticipating something which scares or arouses them. And also stops them practising the behavior that we want to change. Every time your Labrador reacts aggressively they are strengthening the neural pathway. This makes that behavior more likely and harder to change; it becomes their default and may well be used in situations away from the initial trigger in the future. Aggressive behavior which has generalised in this way is much harder to change. If your Labrador is reactive towards other dogs on walks, whatever the underlying emotion behind the reaction, then try to find alternative places with fewer dogs and keep your distance by turning around calmly before your dog can react. Or look for a local space such as a riding school or dog training centre you may be able to hire for safe and secure walks. Reacting To Reactivity It is important to note that if your dog does react aggressively, whatever the situation, scolding them or correcting them will not help them learn what you do want them to do instead. In fact it may well make things worse, as they then become concerned about your reaction as well as the thing that triggered their behavior in the first place. Instead, calmly move them further away from the situation until they are at a distance where they can be calm themselves. If possible let the dog look at the scary, or frustrating, thing and reward them with tasty treats for being calm. This also helps them start to change their emotional response; so that the dog that scared them is now associated with tasty treats instead. We will next take a look at ways of changing emotions and behavior in the medium to longer term. Aggressive behavior is a normal part of social interaction. In some cases the genetic tendency of a dog to be fearful, anxious or easily frustrated, or the length of time they have been practising their aggressive behavior, will limit the progress you can make with them. You will need patience, and a willingness to accept that their needs are different from those you might have expected when you brought them home. Your Aggressive Labrador There is an increasing understanding of the needs of sensitive dogs, and many more trainers and dog places offer activities that are perfectly suited to dogs who do not wish to run and play with other dogs, or who would rather have a bit more space around people. Scentwork and tracking are ideal, as are activity classes which offer lots of different options, from trick training to fun rally. This should involve acknowledging and working to change their underlying emotional response, not simply suppressing the aggression using punishment. There should also be a focus on enabling them to manage themselves in arousing situations, so that, in time, they can make the right choice without needing direction for you. Many dogs will also need help to learn the correct social skills around other dogs. Your Labrador is an individual, with individual experiences and genetics that make them unique; their behavior modification plan should be as individual as they are. Even if you are able to manage the day to day behavior modification training alone, the benefits of working alongside someone who can provide objective feedback, advice on the next steps and support are invaluable. High value food is usually the obvious choice. This can quickly change his emotions from wanting the other dog to go away to wanting them to be around so that he gets the really yummy treat. This is usually done in conjunction with DRI so that he can start to learn how to behave appropriately and be reinforced for polite behavior around other dogs. At all times your Labrador should be working at a distance where they are not reactive, and gradually moving closer to their trigger when they are ready to do so. Any signs of low-level fear or anxiety should be respected and the distance between the dogs increased until the fearful dog is comfortable. To continue working with a dog above threshold is stressful for your dog, counter-productive and risks an aggressive response. Options for Helping your Reactive Dog One of the main criticisms of BAT is that it relies on your Labrador feeling empowered, or relieved, by the other dog moving away in response to calm behavior from your dog. In learning theory terms this is negative reinforcement i. This suggests that he was uncomfortable beforehand, even if only marginally. CAT and flooding are far more extreme in their use of relief as a reinforcer and should be avoided. Examples of this include sitting automatically before their lead goes on, or waiting calmly without being told when you open the boot of the car. This is particularly useful with frustration-related aggression where learning to stay calm when denied access to things he wants is the key skill your Labrador will need to learn before you can work on his manners around other dogs. As with any kind of training or behavior modification, finding a trainer whose skills and knowledge are suitable for your reactive Labrador is key. You must have confidence that they have a range of appropriate tools available to them, that they are able to accurately assess and respond to your dog and that you would like to work with them. This article has only scratched the surface of the options and techniques that are available to help you and your reactive Labrador, but good help is out there. Sian Ryan is an expert Animal Behaviorist based in Cambridgeshire. With several years of training experience and after completing her MSc, Sian worked as a behavior counsellor and trainer in the University of Lincoln Animal Behavior Clinic, where she was able to apply her MSc research in to Self Control in Pet Dogs to her behavior and training work. Sian owns and runs the Developing Dogs Training and Behavior Centre in Cambridgeshire, as well as giving seminars and workshops nationally and internationally. Her first book, No Walks? No Worries!

What Poodle Mix Is Best? The gorgeous furry dogs are not only beautiful but also have a very high level of intelligence. Why Poodle Mixes Besides, they are fun, playful and blend perfectly within a family setup, poodle mixes never ceases to amaze as they are not only kept as pets but also as work dogs. They can be used as therapy dogs or even search dogs. Additionally, they are known to have minimal shedding making them the healthiest breed to live in your home. These adorable dog breeds come in a variety of sizes. Poodle mixes range from the cutest tiny dogs to lovely larger ones. The reason they come across as a favorite breed of dogs is that they are so fluffy and cute. Another plus is that they are extremely friendly. Let explore some of the cutest and most incredible poodle mixes. This adorable little dog was among the very first designer dogs and has never disappointed. Cockapoo is a fun loving dog that thrives on clowning around and being affectionate. Its intelligence level is also quite high. This means that training it would be as easy as a walk in the park. Its shaggy good looks and approachable personality has made it especially popular with families looking for a new addition to their family. The active and charming little fellow can fit into any house and have the members of that house smitten stiff. Maltipoo Dogs naturally active, sweet-tempered and have an engaging personality. The dog is one of the best companions for a walk fun-filled game. This old poodle breed mix is among the first designer dogs and has managed to scoop its place among the most popular dogs. It is completely devoted to their owner, making it perfect for therapy. The first generation crossbreed has a charming personality and was initially intended to be a guide dog for blind people. It is not only attractive but also intelligent, sociable nature and natural affection. Labradoodle also has a low shedding rate which is close to nonexistent which makes it a prestigious pet. They are highly energetic, easy going and well-mannered service dogs. However, predicting what the puppy will be like as an adult is not possible. Puppies from the same litter are likely to be of varying sizes, colors and personality. This popular designer dog is not only good looking but is also extremely clever and able to learn fast. This adorable canine has no constant size, some can be big and others small depending on the genetics of the parent dog breeds. Goldendoodle can fit into any home regardless of the size. The friendly and intuitive dog is an excellent family pet. It can also be used as a sniffer dog, therapy dog, guide dog or service dog. These traits are some of the reason why the Goldendoodle is gaining a lot of popularity. Schnoodle Dog would be a great fit for you. This poodle mix dog is a perfect jogging companion who will not only keep up with you but might also challenge you a bit further. The dog is fun-loving, loyal sturdy, affectionate and smart. However, Schnoodle can also be very stubborn and independent at times. Dog has a double dose of attentiveness and alert nature from the parent breeds. It functions excellently as a watchdog, therapy dog, performance dog or a family dog. Its ability to hold toys using its front claws and intelligence levels are what makes it a performer dog. You may notice that Schnoodle can play favorites with a member of your family. For love companionship and affection, Peekapoo has managed to steal many hearts. Peek-a-poo intelligent creatures are loving and energetic. However, Peekapoo is normally wary of strangers. Despite cuddling up on your lap at night the attentive dog will alert you of any approaching stranger. It can easily learn and practice for show events. Peekapoo is fast rising in popularity and excels at being a watchdog. Minimal shedding characteristic also makes it more appealing to apartment owners. This little has tricks up his sleeve that will brighten even the dullest day. The small hybrid dog is known for its big dog personality. Yorki poo loves to play, he runs fast and can jump very high. He is affectionate, intelligent and gentle and has loads of energy. The obedient and loving dog needs positive reinforcement ad loads of attention. However, the teddy bear looks have made stand out among many other poodle mixes. Pomapoo Dogs are known to be affectionate, friendly and intelligent. When it has undergone socialization training it can be very sociable and eager to meet new people. However, some may just be a reserved who are wary of strangers. One of the things that makes these incredible beautiful mix a hit is their ability to quickly adapt to their surroundings. Pomapoo is perfect companion for those daily works which together with its playful nature helps keep it in shape. They are known to often be a part of tricks, agility and watchdog. This little bundle of joy would be a welcome addition to a small house or apartment. One thing to note is that they do not do well with little children because of their temperament. Supervising the child and dog closely could help you work around this problem. This energetic and action-filled dog will have you and your family running around and playing in no time. The delightful fun loving dog is known to radiate happiness and cheer those who are sad or depressed. His magnetic personality makes people drool over him at sight. Shih-poo is intelligent but is also known to be very stubborn especially in training. Their short attention span requires short and positive training season. These furry and petite canines are sociable and affectionate even towards strangers. The little canine is known to love the sound of his own voice, he can bark all day and night. This is where proper training comes in handy for your own sanity. Then this good-looking canine with a strong personality is exactly what you need. Its loyalty is unquestionable and loves to curl up on laps. The intelligent poodle mixes is loving and friendly and therefore suitable as a family pet. However, despite them being playful and loving caution should be exercised when they are around small children. Chipoo dog will surprise when it starts running as it moves like it has springs on its legs. It will never cease to amaze you with its antics and agility. The miniature dog is extremely obedient which makes it a perfect fit for big families and homes of its minimal shedding. It is also an incredible watchdog always wary of suspicious strangers. Chipoo is also known to be painfully bossy and independent. This hypoallergenic canine does not shed hair which makes it ideal as a house pet, They are also very loving, gentle, accommodating and sociable with kids and other pets. Its tiny frame means that it can easily be injured when playing with children. Therefore, caution should be exercised. Poochon is easy to train and will quickly learn your preferences. It is very active and energetic and requires at least an hour of exercise. Failure of adequate walks and attention will make the dog being cranky, whining and barking. This delightful and reputable bundle of joy would a great playmate for any household. It is also known by other names such as Dachshundpoo, Dixie doodle, or Dachhshunddoodle but everyone seems to prefer Doxiepoo. The well-mannered dog is extremely intelligent and it actually has a sense of humor. Interesting, right? It has a hypoallergenic fur and is easy to train which makes it popular as a household pet. However, if it grows up close to children or other pets it will grow up loving them as siblings. This little dog can learn all tricks in the book with proper training. Its antics and mischievous will provide entertainment and laughter for a lifetime. The headstrong dog is among the latest poodle breed mixes. Responsive and intelligent dog is easy to train making it among the most popular household pets. It is a good natured dog with a strong personality which makes it especially good with children. Bernedoodle is an extremely versatile dog that is energetic and loves to work. It can be used as a therapy dog, service dog or a great companion for singles, the elderly and families. The goofy, fun loving dog will be contended by playing or simply spending time with its owners. If you are looking for an energetic dog then Bernedoodle is a suitable choice. He will have you running after her as she tries to sniff thus keeping it on a leash will help you avoid too much sweating. It also doubles up as a watchdog. Though it may need some extra supervision because it tends to wander off, this canine will make your house lively. This fun-loving dog is playful and is always on a lookout for a new adventure but is extremely loyal ones you become friends. You may also have to keep an eye on his food portions as they also have a big appetite. Regular exercise and balanced diet will help keep its weight in check. Miniature outgoing and joyful dog is quite interesting and a wonderful companion. This sweet and gentle poodle mixes makes an excellent family pet as it sheds minimal hair. It is friendly, devoted and sociable companion. It gets along well with children and other pets and can easily adapt to the surrounding. They are highly energetic which means they require a minimum of one hour for intense exercise. Sensitive dog is extremely smart and does not respond well to harsh treatment. This working dog is an excellent hunting dog that is usually recruited for military services. If you have a large backyard then this dog will find a good home with you. The solid and charming dog is extremely lovable. It has all the traits of a poodle mix which are affectionate, joyous, and social and devotion. Popular Bossi-poo is a fun family dog that gets along with children and other pets. However, due to its fragility care should be taken to ensure safety as it plays with kids. It also does not sit well in the cold weather and a blanket over it to keep warm is advised. This highly intelligent breed is always bent on pleasing which makes it easy to train. Bossi-poo is always contended when spending time with its human pack. Regular exercise is necessary for the well-being of this loyal dog. It has no problem entertaining himself when alone which makes it ideal for a working family. Cavapoo Dogs usually has a sturdy body with a long coat. They are charming, playful, outgoing and loving. They fit right into any home with no hiccups. Cavapoos are great with kids and provide a good playmate. Supervision is required when together with a kid. Daily exercise is necessary and can also do well in competitions. Since it loves playing indoors it can live in apartments or smaller homes. The reputation that comes with it is that ones you open your heart to this beautiful dog, it will be stuck in there forever. It is a wonderful choice for those who suffer from allergies or those interested in a dog with little hair shedding. This lapdog craves for love and attention from its human family. Their level of activeness is medium and will easily slide into your lifestyle. It is a clever dog that learns fast which gives you an easy training time. You can also enter it into dog competitions involving obedience, agility, and rally. They are small in size which means they can fit into most homes. They are also incredible watchdogs. Adorable Lhaspoos is a great companion who gives full love and loyalty to their owners. They are gorgeous highly spirited dogs that always have a happy outlook on life. Eskapoo enjoy spending time with their human pack and generally love having a good time. They are incredible with children of all ages though supervision is always needed with younger kids. The fact that they are small in size means that they can thrive even in the smallest houses, as long as they get their regular walks. Unfortunately, this little canines bark at everything and would thus require training to avoid bothering neighbors. They do best in homes where there is at least one person home all times; this is because they suffer from separation anxiety. These loving gentle souls are a cheerful lot that will stick to your side like glue. The fun-loving supercharged energy dog would be a welcome addition to the family. This little thing gets along famously with kids and is always up for a game of catch. Its low shedding quality is also an added advantage to any homeowner. This intelligent dog is quick to learn as it seeks to please. Patience and consistency are key to training this smart but stubborn canine. With this dog around a boring or lonely day would be a thing of the past. They always have tricks up their sleeves to keep you entertained all day. It enjoys spending time and playing with its human family. It is great with children which makes it an awesome family pet. This Poodle Mix is also a good companion for singles or the seniors. Its low shedding trait is a welcome advantage for homeowners. He is very intelligent and responds well to training. Training should start early when they are still puppies to cultivate a socializing behavior. They are super active and need regular physical and mental stimulation to avoid bored which would cause behavioral problems. However, these canines are likely to do well in a home with a larger space. Conclusion Poodles mixes are broad in variety which means that among them you will be sure to get a perfect fit for you. They are intelligent, quick to learn, and above all really friendly. And if you have health issues related to allergies then poodle mixed breed should be your first choice as many hardly shed. These adorable pets are likely to thrive and give you so much joy as long as you provide proper care and love. Despite there being concerns about many health problems related to these breeds you should not shy away from getting one because with proper care this is unlikely to be a concern. What they lack in size, they make up for in spirit— Yorkie-poos like to make their presence known and aren't afraid to bark back. Luckily, the Yorkie-poo has a penchant for her people and takes well to positive reinforcement training at an early age. The shih-poo—a cross between a shih tzu and toy poodle—is a small doodle breed with loads of love to spare. In fact, the shih tzu has a long history of gracing the laps of Chinese royalty , and these poodle mixes adore being pampered. With their floppy ears and curly coats, a look from those puppy dog eyes is liable to melt any heart in sight. Cockapoos are known to shadow their owners , tailing them from room to room, and to shamelessly seek attention—you shouldn't plan to leave them alone for long periods of time. They are lovable companions who adore praise and are well-suited to people of all ages and lifestyles, so long as those people have endless adoration to give. The sheepadoodle, while larger than many other doodle dog breeds, is just as gentle—if not more so. Easygoing, goofy, and floofy, these family-friendly dogs enjoy the companionship of both humans and other dogs. Luckily for these doting families, the Bernedoodle can live up to 18 years, long past the typical lifespan of the Bernese mountain dog, who typically only live around seven years. Their long, curlicue coats must be maintained through consistent weekly grooming, as well as a trip to a professional groomer around every six weeks. Though low-shedding like their poodle and doodle counterparts, the cavapoo does shed seasonally, or "blow coat," in the spring and fall, so an allergic reaction is not entirely out of the question for super-sensitive owners. Though loyal and friendly , the schnoodle does best in a home with older children and adults and is not typically a natural with young children like his fellow doodle dogs. However, even the most shy of schnoodles can adapt to family life just fine if socialized as a puppy. Their cream-colored, curly coats require daily grooming, so be sure to break out the brush often. Though they are gentle and good with children, it's recommended Maltipoo owners supervise any interaction between small children and their pup—the Maltipoo is so small, she may be harmed accidentally by a child during playtime, no matter how well-intentioned. These dogs are born from Poodles with other purebreds like pugs, Labradors, or Cocker Spaniels. Since the s, doodle dogs have increased in their popularity—and it's not a wonder why. These breeds are often low- to non-shedding, and are consider to be a safe bet for most people with allergies. Their personalities make them ideal companions for many people, too. For example, Bernedoodle dogs tend to be more stubborn but they have lower energy than a Goldendoodle. Another thing that people should look at is the generation of the doodle. Generation refers to how far removed from a purebred pairing—like a purebred Poodle and a purebred Labrador as parents. Which ones are your favorite? This has become one of the most sought-after "Doodle breeds" due to their winning combination of good looks, smart wits, and hypoallergenic coats. They also make reputable therapy pets. If you admire these gentle giant dogs for their goofy, placid personalities, then one of these pups might be for you. This tends to be a good choice for those with allergies because the poodle coat is often inherited rather than the Labrador coat—however, you can find a variety of colors depending on the parent. These dogs are intelligent, friendly, and moderately active. Friendly and caring, they usually manage to stay happy with other pets and family members. And while these dogs are sweet, they may require some training to rein in their playful personalities. They also go by the name of Wheatendoodle, the Wheatenpoo, the Sweatendoodle, and the Sweatenpoo. These are energetic dogs, but despite their high energy, they don't tend to bark much. They are a rare breed mix and may be difficult to find. This small, fluffy, high energy breed is an adorable addition to the family—especially if you are looking for a dog that's rambunctious and loves to play with the kids. The is likely to be a shaggy yet stately looking dog, with an obvious athleticism derived from its strong hunting poodle origins. Compact, feisty, and fun in spirit, what these dogs lack in size, they make up for in their personality. They are on their best behavior in the company of their owners, as they tend to bark or dig when left alone at home. Incredibly smart, energetic, and loyal, these pups have a work-hard, play-hard mindset that best suits someone with an active lifestyle. These are big, lovable dogs that are incredibly smart and equally stubborn. But while training them takes additional patience, the reward of their loyalty and devotion is well worth it. These dogs are charming, funny, and smart, and their alert nature—thanks to that double dose of working-breed attentiveness—makes them excellent watchdogs. These dogs are friendly and affectionate little comedians with a sweet temperament and a zest for life. It's also believed to be the oldest of the designer dog breeds in America, dating back to the s. It's also commonly known as the Havadoodle or Havanoodle—their intelligent and playful personalities make them a total joy for the whole family. And if you want a calm, sweet dog with lots of love to give, then this mix fits the bill. But calm doesn't mean small. They can grow to be as big as pounds. Because of their eager-to-please personalities, they tend to be protective of their families. This dog may have the curly coat of a Poodle or the long, straight coat of a Shih Tzu, but he always has a cute, alert expression and a sturdy body. When it comes to big breeds, this mix wins the prize—weighing anywhere between 70 to pounds. These dogs are fun-loving, affectionate family companions that need lots of room to run around and plenty of food to meet their nutritional needs. Petite and curly-coated, this is a delightful mix that is likable in personality, if not a little feisty at times. They tend to be vocal if alerted to something, and so they make good little watchdogs. Was this page helpful? There are more than 40 types of poodle mixes to choose from, and each comes with a unique set of traits to love. While some of these names may sound like they belong on the pages of a Dr. Seuss book, these furry friends are sure to make an excellent addition to your family. Here are some of the most popular dog breeds mixed with a poodle to consider if you're considering adopting a dog. No matter your decision, all these four-legged, furry friends are sure to put a smile on your face. Goldendoodles are known to be great family companions and are highly intelligent. As a result, they're usually easy to train but have enough energy to keep up with an active family. Some Goldendoodles are hypoallergenic, which may help family members with allergy issues. They're adorable and will get a lot of attention from anyone who sees it. Yorkiepoos are typically sweet, playful, and intelligent. Their diminutive stature makes them a perfect fit for apartment or condo living. However, because they're small, they often do better in a home with older children or adults who know how to handle them with care. Like other smaller dogs, the Yorkiepoo can tend to bark excessively without proper training, so be proactive to curb this behavior. If you love the gentle, sweet nature of Bernese Mountain dogs but are overwhelmed by their large size, a Bernedoodle might be the perfect compromise. While poodles can be energetic, Bernenoodles tend to be a little more content to cozy up on the couch, thanks to their Bernese mountain dog traits. Many Labradoodles have a poodle's coat and shed less than purebred labs, though coat style and color can vary. Labradoodles love company and are happy to be a part of the family. Whoodles are typically medium-sized and filled with energy, so they will not enjoy being couch potatoes. Though they mean no harm, Whoodles want to chase smaller animals, so they'll fare best in a home without cats, rabbits, or other small creatures. Pomapoos tend to be small but have big personalities and are highly affectionate. They love their families so much that they can face separation anxiety if left alone for too long. They train easily and usually get along well with kids and other pets. You may also hear them called a Sheepapoo or Sheepdogpoo. They tend to be intelligent and friendly and usually get along well with other dogs. Because of their herding background, they may play rough with smaller animals or little kids, so be mindful of your family's makeup before adding a Sheepadoodle to your brood. These dogs are intelligent and easy to train, with plenty of energy to burn. They may be territorial over their home and family, so don't be surprised if they bark for a few minutes when visitors come by. However, they're ultra-sweet once they're comfortable with you. Cockapoos were among the first popular "designer dogs" and have been highly in demand for decades. They make cheerful family companions. Though they're beautiful dogs, cockapoos tend to require a reasonably intensive grooming routine, which may not fit families already pressed for time. These pups tend to have a "pack" mentality, which means they'll love participating in family activities. Cavapoos typically don't shed much and skew on the smaller size. They're usually gentle, friendly, and love to cuddle. This pup, a blend of Bichon Frise and poodle, is sure to steal the hearts of everyone in your family. If you're looking for a furry best friend that loves to cuddle, a Poochon is a perfect pick. Just be sure to work on barking when your dog is young to prevent them from becoming a loudmouth as they age. Though they're diminutive in stature, Maltipoos have highly expressive faces. They're incredibly affectionate and make great companions, but their excessive love for their family can spur some separation anxiety. They're not ideal pets if you work long hours outside the home. These dogs are intelligent and sweet-natured. Schnoodles are a blend of two working dogs, which means you'll get an attentive, alert pup that can make an excellent watchdog. Chipoos love to play and cuddle. They tend to be protective over their family and home, so even though they're tiny and not very intimidating, their "hey, what's this person doing here? These little guys and girls are typically highly intelligent, energetic, and loving. Appearance varies depending on whether your dog favors his Jack Russell or poodle side, but in almost all cases, these dogs are relatively small. Jack-a-poos need plenty of exercise time, so this puppy is best suited for a family looking to engage in many games of fetch. Besides being adorable, these pups are sweet-natured and highly intelligent. Aussiedoodles have a wide variety of coat colors and textures. They're loyal companions eager to please, making them a great addition to your family. These striking pups make loving, calm family pets. But, as you might imagine, their Pyrenees side means that Pyredoodles aren't exactly pocket pups. They can weigh up to pounds when they're fully grown. This type of dog probably isn't a fit if you live in a small apartment. Depending on your particular pup, these darling dogs may have the curly coat of a poodle or the straight, soft hair of a Shih Tzu. Either way, they make perky, playful companions. They love attention and are more than content cuddling with their humans on the couch. Frequently Asked Questions Which poodle mix is the calmest? Among larger doodles, the bernedoodle and goldendoodle have a reputation for being calm, while the maltipoo and cavapoo are considered calm toy mixes. Choose a poodle crossed with a laid-back breed to increase the chances you'll get a calm dog. Which poodle mix does not shed? Poodles aren't shedders, which is one reason why poodle mixes are so popular. A poodle mix with another breed that isn't a shedder is more likely to be a no-shed dog. Was this page helpful? Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. But have you ever considered bringing home a Poodle mix? Poodles are known for being one of the smartest dog breeds out there. You might also be surprised to learn that they are very athletic animals, despite having a reputation for being a bit prissy. One of the biggest advantages to adopting a Poodle, however, is the fact that these dogs are considered hypoallergenic. This is because they have hair instead of fur, which means they do not shed the way that other dogs do. In this article, we will discuss some of the most popular Poodle mixes and why you should consider adopting one. Poodle Sizing Unlike most dog breeds that grow to be one standard size, Poodles actually come in three different sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Some people refer to a fourth size, medium, but medium-sized Poodles are not widely recognized and are often considered standard size instead. Mixed breed dogs do not tend to have a uniform size because offspring will favor one parent or the other. Because Poodles come in different sizes, you will notice that the size of Poodle mixed breeds will tend to vary widely. If you are interested in purchasing a Poodle mixed breed puppy, make sure to ask your breeder what size the Poodle parent is so that you know how big you can expect your dog to get. The Top 50 Poodle Mixes 1. If a Mini Poodle Mix takes after their Mini Poodle parent, they will be a small dog that is affectionate, loving, and playful. Miniature Poodles are intelligent, sensitive dogs with cheerful dispositions. They tend to get along well with children, other pets, and other dogs. They even tend to be good with strangers as long as they have been properly socialized. They do tend to alert you of things, which can make them prone to barking. Working to train your dog to stop barking early on can keep this from becoming a nuisance behavior. If the other parent breed has similar traits, then you can expect a similar temperament from a Miniature Poodle Mix. You can also meet the mother in person to see what temperament she has and the behavior she is modeling for her puppies. The breeder should have started socialization and training. However, it is up to you to continue to train and socialize a puppy once you get them home to ensure they grow into a well-rounded dog. A Miniature Poodle is a highly adaptable dog that does well in apartments as well as larger homes and in most climates. Because they are so people-oriented, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. If the other parent breed is similar, then you can also expect a high adaptable Miniature Poodle Mix. The other breed in the mix is likely to have their own quirks, so you do still want to ask the breeder about them. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? Just as a mix can inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, they could also inherit some combination of them or all of them. Make sure you ask about the health history of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Miniature Poodles tend to be intelligent dogs that are eager to please and easy to train. They tend to be a good fit for owners of all experience levels. As long as the other parent breed is also a good fit for all experience levels, then you can expect a Mini Poodle Mix to be highly trainable as well. If the other parent breed is more difficult to train, then you will want to prepare for that possibility in a Miniature Poodle Mix. A mixed-breed can inherit a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is some combination of them both. If a Miniature Poodle Mix inherits the Poodle coat, it will be low-shedding, require daily brushing, and require professional grooming every weeks. Once or twice monthly nail trims keeps them from growing too long. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Brushing teeth daily or using an enzyme toothpaste every day in addition to cleanings at the vet as needed are ideal dental care for dogs. Although they are small, Miniature Poodles are high-energy dogs that require daily walks plus playtime and extra activity to be happy and healthy. If the other parent breed is also a high-energy breed, then you can expect a Mini Poodle Mix to also be a high-energy dog. If the other parent breed has a lower energy level, a Mini Poodle Mix could take after them, but you still want to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog. A Miniature Poodle is usually inches tall and weighs pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother, so you want to ask the breeder about them. Miniature Poodles generally live for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span in a Mini Poodle Mix. Featured Miniature Poodle Mix Article.

The couple that bought him was so excited and when they bred him to their solid black female they were shocked when two of the pups were an odd gray color. So off to the internet they went and, since I built BlueDogs back in as an educational reference on the blue and liver color genes in the GSD breed, a search normally brings up my site at the top of the list. That's when I get an e-mail from someone who has never even heard of blue or liver in the GSD breed before. Being a solid blue I suspect he is dominant K self color often means very yellow and bright wolf like eyes. For this reason not only has he, but most of our other dogs have been mistaken for wolf hybrids. One of our neighbors actually went and bought a puppy from a nearby breeder for his son. When we asked him why he didn't come to us he looked genuinely confused and stated, "I didn't know you bred German Shepherds. I thought you had wolf hybrids. The black and tan familiar saddle marking seems to be the only color and pattern that people not in the breed, associate as a GSD. Any other color or pattern sables for example is viewed as being a mixed breed by the general public. Even long coats are accused of being Collie mixes. I laugh about it and try to educate when I can, and that is if the information is even wanted. I adore all of my dogs, even if the color of their nose leather is considered a DQ! They are all balanced dogs, because I am a confident pack leader!! They all enjoy watching me do all the yard work on 3 acres. Dax and Noah love to play ball and swim. Hannah loves to run alongside them as they get the ball. I am always watching for new tips from Cesar. He is a natural! His father and mother are imports from Germany. When he came to my house at 5 months, he considered himself to be top dog. He always heels by my side and listens to all MY commands. I take him on long walks—about 30 mins daily in the morning and a short stroll in the evening. He welcomes strangers but he is a little aggressive with other dogs. He loves to go in the car, sitting in the backseat. He hates having a bath though I bathe him only once a month. He is considered to be one of the most purebred GSDs in the city because of his lineage. He is never aggressive when you take his food bowl, even when he is eating. He is very loyal to me because I heard him growling at a guy who was shouting at me one day. I think he is a very balanced canine. She is very loyal and protective with high intellect. She lives with me in Tampa, FL, and keeps me company while I study away in medical school. She's had the best temperament from day one. I have since read two more of his books and couldn't be happier with the results I've gotten following his method. I look back on some of the dogs I've owned over the years and mistakes I've made, and I sometimes feel guilty I didn't know then what I know now, but I hope they can forgive me from doggie heaven. As you can tell from the picture, she's a great companion and loves going anywhere with me. Even though she doesn't like to swim, she loves the beach. In this picture she was at the dog beach in Tampa, FL. All day cruise ships pass along the beach on their way out to sea and at night we see Devil Rays swim into the bay in a line. She will walk up to strangers as they give commands to their dogs, force her way to the front, and obey all the commands to show what a great dog she is, completely ignoring the other dogs! She gets to walk with me off leash wherever we are allowed and does great. Even though she sheds more than I would like, I can see myself staying with this breed for a long time! She has an amazing tolerance for pain she thinks a shot is a way of petting , and thinks the whole visit is some reward where she gets to meet new people and be the center of attention, and she doesn't get what the fuss from the other dogs is about. I am an 8-month-old black Czechoslovakian German Shepherd. I was imported in because I was bred specifically to have a much more level back and hind. I love to fetch, and drag my buddy Chloe around when she holds on to my ropes. I am energetic and love my mom and dad, and other dogs! This is me playing at a field in my local dog park! A family found her in an abused state, with scars on her feet from being chained. The family brought her home and cared for her, but could not afford medical bills. My mom and I saw an ad in the paper for her, and decided to go see. When we arrived Bella was extremely skittish and would come nowhere near us or the owners. She was extremely undernourished, and the woman told us it is because Bella had worms, and the family was unable to afford the vet bill. We bought Bella simply because of the lack of medical attention. Now, a year and a half later, we have worked with Bella , and she has become the most loyal, beautiful and loving animal our family has ever owned. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic German Shepherd Dog Overview The German Shepherd Dog, recognized as the Alsatian in Great Britain and various parts of Europe, stands as one of the foremost canine breeds globally, often finding its place in the top 10 most favored breeds in the United States. Its distinction and fame can be attributed, in part, to a poignant tale from World War I. Amidst the turmoil of war, Corporal Lee Duncan rescued a young puppy from a war-torn breeding kennel in France. This pup, later named Rin Tin Tin, would become a legendary figure in the entertainment industry, starring in numerous films and amassing an astonishing 10, fan letters weekly during the pinnacle of its stardom. Beyond the silver screen, the German Shepherd has embraced a multitude of roles. From aiding the visually impaired and apprehending criminals to detecting illicit substances and serving in the military, this versatile breed has exhibited its prowess. It has also demonstrated its compassion by visiting the sick and exhibiting its herding instincts with livestock. Originating as herding dogs tasked with day-long duties, they possess substantial energy levels, necessitating ample physical activity and mental stimulation. A lack thereof can lead to undesirable behaviors like excessive barking and destructive chewing. Characterized by an aloof and occasionally wary disposition, they excel as vigilant watchdogs but may not exude the warm welcome typical of a family pet. Nevertheless, early exposure to diverse situations and individuals during puppyhood can cultivate adaptability. Descendants from American breeders often prioritize the pursuit of dog show accolades and distinctive aesthetics, sometimes at the expense of traditional working abilities. These dogs tend to exhibit heightened energy and determination. Thus, a visit to a shelter provides an invaluable opportunity to connect with your potential lifelong companion before making a commitment. German Shepherd Dog Highlights Renowned for their vigor and intellect, German Shepherds thrive when engaged in various activities such as learning, playing, and purposeful tasks. Daily routines should incorporate both physical exercises like jogging and Frisbee, as well as mental challenges like training sessions. The German Shepherd may not be the ideal choice if your schedule frequently keeps you away from home or requires extended absences. When left alone, they can develop feelings of unease or monotony, which might manifest through undesirable behaviors like excessive barking , chewing, and digging. German Shepherds often exhibit an aloof and cautious demeanor towards unfamiliar individuals. Initiating obedience training, commencing with puppy classes, aids in familiarizing them with other dogs and humans, while also instilling fundamental canine etiquette. Crate training proves invaluable not only for housebreaking purposes but also in instilling a sense of tranquility and contentment when separated from their owner. This aspect is particularly significant for the German Shepherd, as they can experience separation anxiety, leading to heightened distress when left alone. While they excel as vigilant watchdogs, it is essential to avoid chaining or tethering the German Shepherd solely for guarding purposes. This practice can result in frustration and potentially aggressive behavior. Optimal living conditions involve indoor coexistence with the family, along with access to a spacious, enclosed yard where they can expend their abundant energy. Consider exploring local shelters or breed-specific rescues for your next furry companion, including German Shepherds. Adopting from these sources before resorting to a breeder not only benefits the dog but also offers a chance to make a meaningful difference. An officer in the German cavalry, Captain von Stephanitz harbored a distinct ambition: to cultivate an unparalleled German herding dog. In preceding centuries, German farmers and their European counterparts relied on dogs to manage and safeguard their livestock. Certain canines gained legendary status for their herding prowess, prompting shepherds to traverse great distances to mate their female dogs with distinguished sires. However, as von Stephanitz astutely observed, the local herding dogs had yet to evolve into a distinct and unified breed. In , upon retiring from his military career, von Stephanitz embarked on a new chapter dedicated to his passion: experimenting with dog breeding to fashion an exceptional German herding dog. Drawing inspiration from the British, renowned for their exceptional herding dogs, von Stephanitz studied various breeding techniques. He traversed Germany, attending dog shows and closely observing German-style herding dogs. Amidst the fine examples he encountered—athletic, intelligent, and capable—he found a crucial element lacking: a single dog that encapsulated all these traits. While von Stephanitz initially intended the breed to excel in herding, the industrialization of Germany led him to envision a different path. Among them was an American corporal from Los Angeles, who rescued a newborn puppy from a war-ravaged kennel in France. However, the aftermath of the war introduced challenges. By , he recognized certain unfavorable traits emerging in German Shepherds, such as poor temperament and dental issues. He instituted a rigorous quality control system, requiring dogs to pass rigorous tests before breeding, assessing intelligence, temperament, athleticism, and overall health. American breeding prioritized appearances and show wins, while German Shepherds from Germany remained steadfast in their working abilities. In the face of performance challenges and genetic health concerns among American-bred dogs, a shift began, with some U. This breed falls squarely within the medium to large dog category, characterized by a strong and robust build that exudes both elegance and power. Adult German Shepherds typically possess a height range of 22 to 26 inches 56 to 66 cm at the shoulders, with males often standing slightly taller than females. However, these measurements may vary based on factors such as genetics, lineage, and geographical regions of breeding. This weight range contributes to their substantial and muscular appearance, reflecting their historical role as herding and working dogs. Their well-proportioned body structure, characterized by a level back, strong hindquarters, and deep chest, further emphasizes their agility and strength. While their imposing stature contributes to their role as capable guardians and protectors, it is important to note that their size is coupled with intelligence and an eager-to-please temperament. This blend of physical prowess and mental acuity positions them as versatile companions, excelling in various roles such as search and rescue, police work, service, and family pets. Maintaining an ideal weight and overall health is crucial for the well-being of German Shepherds. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine veterinary care contribute to their longevity and vitality. These dogs are inclined toward reserve, forming connections not instantly but deeply, and once those bonds are forged, their loyalty knows no bounds. Within their family circle, they exhibit an affable and approachable demeanor, yet when faced with threats, they can transform into stalwart protectors, showcasing their exceptional watchdog abilities. Endowed with remarkable intelligence and trainable instincts, this breed thrives when given a purposeful task—no challenge is too great. However, one aspect that requires careful consideration is their need for companionship and engagement. Prolonged periods of solitude do not align well with their nature. Without the necessary interaction, exercise, and opportunities to engage their sharp minds, they can experience boredom and restlessness. A German Shepherd left under-stimulated and isolated from family activities may resort to undesirable behaviors, such as excessive barking and destructive chewing. In line with all canines, early socialization proves pivotal for a well-rounded development. The German Shepherd should be exposed to diverse people, environments, sounds, and encounters during their formative stages. Such socialization lays the foundation for an adaptable and balanced adult dog, equipped to handle a variety of situations with confidence and ease. By embracing these qualities and providing suitable outlets for their energy and intellect, the German Shepherd can evolve into an outstanding companion and guardian, embodying the best of their remarkable personality traits. German Shepherd Dog Health German Shepherds typically enjoy good health, yet, akin to all breeds, they have susceptibility to specific health conditions. Hip dysplasia can manifest with or without apparent symptoms. Some dogs may display lameness and discomfort in one or both hind legs, with arthritis potentially developing as they age. Screening for hip dysplasia through X-ray assessments is conducted by organizations like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals or the University of Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be used for breeding. The consequence is painful lameness. Veterinary recommendations could encompass surgical intervention or pain management medications. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus Bloat : A life-threatening situation predominantly affecting deep-chested large dogs, bloat occurs when the stomach distends due to gas or air and subsequently twists. Immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent shock and possible fatality. Suspect bloat if your dog exhibits abdominal distension, excessive salivation, retching without vomiting, restlessness, lethargy, and rapid heart rate. Dogs with DM struggle to coordinate hind leg movements, often progressing to an inability to walk. Treatment options are limited, although rare instances might involve vitamin deficiencies, necessitating vitamin supplementation. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency EPI : This genetic pancreatic disorder diminishes digestive enzyme production, leading to impaired food digestion and absorption. Symptoms include gas, appetite loss, weight reduction, altered stools, and increased hunger. Allergies: German Shepherds are susceptible to various allergies encompassing contact and food sensitivities. Indicators may involve persistent scratching, paw licking, and facial rubbing. Consult your vet if such symptoms emerge. This translates to a surplus of energy that necessitates daily exercise for release. Extended periods of solitude without physical exertion can result in issues. Boredom and inactivity pave the way for undesirable behaviors, such as chewing , digging , and barking. To satiate their energetic demands, German Shepherds require both physical engagement jogging, playful sessions at a dog park and mental stimulation participation in agility or obedience competitions. Similar to many herding breeds, German Shepherds have a penchant for vocalization. Furthermore, these dogs have an inclination for chewing, and their formidable jaw strength can swiftly demolish various materials. German Shepherd Dog Feeding Tailoring a diet for a German Shepherd Dog requires consideration of their large size and elevated energy demands. Seeking guidance from your veterinarian or a certified nutritionist is prudent to determine the appropriate nourishment and portion sizes for your German Shepherd. As they progress through puppyhood, adulthood, and senior stages, their dietary requisites will evolve. Remaining attentive to these nutritional shifts is crucial. For German Shepherd puppies, particular attention is necessary when it comes to feeding and physical activity. Their rapid growth between four and seven months leaves them susceptible to bone-related issues. To mitigate such concerns, a high-quality, low-calorie diet is advisable to regulate their growth rate. Grass surfaces are more suitable, and puppy agility with minor jumps is permissible. Cautious portion control is essential to prevent excessive weight gain and potential joint complications. Striking a balance with treats, promoting regular exercise, and adhering to scheduled mealtimes, as opposed to constant access to food, safeguards against overfeeding. By being attentive to their dietary needs and mindful of their activity levels, you can contribute to the well-being and overall health of your German Shepherd. German Shepherd Dog Coat Color And Grooming Originally bred to manage flocks in challenging climates, the German Shepherd boasts a medium-length double coat that suits this task impeccably. This coat serves as a natural shield against rain, snow, and prevents the accumulation of burrs and dirt. The German Shepherd exhibits a diverse range of coat types and colors. The outer layer features dense, straight hair that lies close to the body, occasionally presenting a wavy or wiry texture. Notably, the American Kennel Club does not endorse white as an accepted color for conformation shows, though they remain eligible for other competitions. Prospective German Shepherd owners must brace for hair on various surfaces, from clothing to furniture. While no foolproof remedy exists for shedding, regular brushing , ideally two to three times a week, can help manage the hair situation by capturing more in the brush than on furnishings. A reliable vacuum cleaner also proves advantageous. Despite their shedding reputation, German Shepherds tend to maintain a fairly clean and odor-free disposition. Supplying durable and secure dental chew toys or bones can combat tartar buildup, especially on the back molars. Supplementing this with periodic brushing using a soft toothbrush and dog-specific toothpaste enhances gum and teeth well-being. German Shepherd Dog Children And Other Pets A well-trained German Shepherd that has been exposed to children, especially during their puppyhood, can make an excellent companion for kids. Some liken them to a blend of a caretaker and a guardian, as they exhibit gentleness and protective instincts towards the youngsters within their family. However, given their size, there is a potential for accidental bumps with toddlers or small children. Their reserved demeanor translates into a cautious approach with unfamiliar kids, yet their reliability generally prevails. While not overtly exuberant, German Shepherds can harmoniously coexist with other dogs and pets, provided they receive proper guidance from their early days. In such cases, enlisting the aid of a professional trainer or seeking guidance from the rescue organization, if you obtained the adult German Shepherd from there, can prove beneficial. German Shepherd Dog Rescue Groups Many individuals acquire German Shepherds without a comprehensive grasp of the responsibilities associated with their ownership. A multitude of German Shepherds are seeking adoption or foster care, and numerous breed-specific rescue organizations are spread throughout the nation. Below are a few links to a few of these German Shepherd rescue groups. Though size varies between individuals, a standard German Shepherd weighs about 60 pounds. Whether you already own a German Shepherd pup or are looking into it, be prepared for a hefty lap dog! Continue to 7 of 16 below. They were originally bred for their striking good looks and intelligence, making for a great working dog on the police force and in the military. They were so cute that dog-lovers in other countries soon caught on and began breeding them themselves. Continue to 8 of 16 below. These dogs are very protective of their homes and family and make excellent guard dogs. Continue to 9 of 16 below. They need stimulation, even if they are a family pet and not a trained deputy. This can be in the form of playful games, puzzle toys, tricks , and obedience training. Otherwise, German Shepherds may show off some unpleasant behavior, like chewing. Continue to 10 of 16 below. Continue to 11 of 16 below. Continue to 12 of 16 below. They perk up as they grow older, making them look extra tall and important. Continue to 13 of 16 below. Beautiful all black and all white German Shepherds are out there, too. Continue to 14 of 16 below. Continue to 15 of 16 below. This breed is inherently athletic and courageous—nothing can stop them, not even water. Continue to 16 of 16 below. It lacks the physical deformities bred into western show lines of German Shepherds and has become one of Russia's most popular dog types. It was developed in the s and s to correct behavioural and conformational issues that have been bred into modern German Shepherds, and was bred for its large size, length of back, temperament and soundness of hips. White-coated German Shepherds were once banned from registration in their native Germany, but in the United States and Canada the coloration gained a following and a breed club was formed specifically for white German Shepherds, calling their variety the White Shepherd. The variety is recognised as a separate breed by the United Kennel Club. It descends from the American White Shepherds; the first stud dog of what was to become the breed was an American dog born in and imported to Switzerland. They are especially well known for their police work, being used for tracking criminals, patrolling troubled areas and detection and holding of suspects. Additionally, thousands of German Shepherds have been used by the military. These military working dogs MWD are usually trained for scout duty, and they are used to warn soldiers to the presence of enemies or of booby traps or other hazards. They were used in World War II as messenger dogs, rescue dogs and personal guard dogs. These include search and rescue, cadaver searching , narcotics detection, explosives detection , accelerant detection and mine detection dog, among others. They are suited for these lines of work because of their keen sense of smell and their ability to work regardless of distractions. When formal guide dog training began in Switzerland in the s under the leadership of Dorothy Eustis , all of the dogs trained were German Shepherd females. These results suggested that Labrador Retrievers were more suited to guide dog work while German Shepherds were more suited to police work. They are expected to patrol the boundaries to keep sheep from trespassing and damaging the crops. In Germany and other places these skills are tested in utility dog trials also known as Herdengebrauchshund HGH herding utility dog trials. He is regarded to be the dog who has captured the most drugs in Mexican police and military history. You may improve this section , discuss the issue on the talk page , or create a new section, as appropriate. By this number had grown to over .Returning soldiers spoke highly of the breed and animal actors Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart popularised the breed further. Her offspring had defects as the result of poor breeding, which caused the breed to decline in popularity during the late s. As of [update] , the German Shepherd is the second most popular breed in the US. Degenerative myelopathy , a neurological disease, occurs with enough regularity specifically in the breed to suggest that the breed is predisposed to it. A very inexpensive DNA saliva test is now available to screen for degenerative myelopathy. The test screens for the mutated gene that has been seen in dogs with degenerative myelopathy. The test is only recommended for predisposed breeds, but can be performed on DNA samples from any dog, collected through swabbing the inside of the animal's cheek with a sterile cotton swab. Prospective German Shepherd buyers can now request the test from the breeder or buy from a breeder who is known to test their dogs. Skeletal health and supplementation[ edit ] Musculoskeletal disorders are debilitating conditions that are often associated with genetic makeup, malnutrition, and stress-related events. Canine hip dysplasia CHD is an orthopaedic condition resulting from abnormal development of the hip joint and surrounding tissue causing the instability and partial dislocation of the hip joint, resulting in pain, inflammation , lameness, and potentially osteoarthritis of the joint. Both have stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. A German Shepherd named Inspector Rex is the star of an Austrian Police procedural drama program of the same name, which won many awards, where German Shepherd Rex assists the Vienna Kriminalpolizei homicide unit. It became one of the staple productions of Hungarian television history, making German Shepherds the most popular dog breed in the country ever since.