poodle crossbreed puppies

When you bring a new puppy home, it's important to keep feeding it the same food that it has been eating at its previous home. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Talk to the person or organization that you are adopting your puppy from to see what food they are feeding it. They should willingly provide that info and they may even send you home with some if you can't find any to buy. If you can't find the right food in your local pet supply store, consider ordering it online. However, you would need to order it ahead of time so that you have it on hand when the puppy comes home. If you want to feed your puppy a different food from what it has been eating, you will need to switch its food over the course of several days. Feed that mix for several days. Finally, you can give the puppy all new food. If you are content to give your puppy the food it was originally eating, it's fine to do that. Every puppy will have different nutritional needs. Because of this, it's a good idea to discuss proper nutrition with your vet. They can suggest great foods to give your puppy and how much it should be eating. Go to source The right portion size depends on the size of your puppy and its metabolism. Ask your vet to teach you how to body score your puppy. This will allow you to do a quick visual check to see whether your puppy is losing or gaining weight. Tip: If your vet suggests a specific food but doesn't tell you how much to give your puppy, follow the instructions on the packaging. Doing 3 or 4 feedings per day allows your puppy to get enough nutrients without overwhelming its digestive system with a huge amount of food at once. This is especially important when your puppy is under 6 months old, as they have delicate systems. Go to source Don't just leave the food out all day. Take the food away after the puppy eats for about 10 or 15 minutes. Lab puppies should always have access to fresh water so that they can stay adequately hydrated. Put out a dish of water and dump it out, clean the dish, and refill it daily. Some puppies are really messy with their water dishes. To prevent a mess, try putting the water dish on a tray, so that spilled water won't go right onto the floor. Top Picks For Our Dogs Preparing Your Home For A Puppy You should treat the preparation of your home for the arrival of a new puppy in much the same way as you would for the arrival of a baby because the process is almost identical. You must be ready to provide every little thing your puppy needs in life, making sure they have water, are fed, comfortable, happy, catered for and safe. To achieve this there are 4 main things that you need to do: Go shopping for equipment and supplies Puppy proof your home and garden to make sure your puppy stays safe Set up an area for your puppy to sleep and spend time in when you cannot supervise them Decide on the rules and routines required to successfully raise a puppy Without such preparation, things will be difficult. A Nutritious Puppy Food The most important supply needed for a new puppy is a highly nutritious puppy food. Hopefully your puppy came from a responsible breeder who was feeding them a high quality, complete and nutritious food. If so, you should ask what they were feeding, stock up on and continue feeding this if possible. If not, then puppies are incredibly active, growing fast and developing bone, muscle and more every day. Because of this they need almost double the calories, more protein and have different nutritional needs to mature adult dogs. Furthermore, they have far smaller mouths than adult dogs so puppy food comes in smaller chunks more suited to their size. Click here to see our recommendations for the best puppy food for labs Bowls for Food And Water There is a bewildering array of dog bowl choices out there so choosing the best can be difficult. Looks and design aside, I recommend going for stainless steel bowls because they are long-lasting, cannot be chewed and are very easy to clean. I also recommend buying bowls with heavy rubber bottoms so they stay rooted to the spot and are harder to spill or flip over. Unless of course you buy bowls in a stand, then these problems are already solved. A Puppy Crate And Bedding A good crate is one of the most beneficial things you can provide for the good of yourself and your puppy. First of all, supply some bedding to place inside for your puppy to sleep on. My recommendation for this is VetBed. Many puppies can chew and ingest normal bedding which can result in medical emergencies and VetBed is the most durable bedding on the market. During these times you need to provide a larger, but still safe enclosure to confine your puppy. You might also like to buy a plastic sheet and some puppy pads or use lots of old newspaper for them to use as a potty in your absence. Puppy Chew Toys Puppies chew. A lot. And they seem to prefer chewing phones, footwear and TV remotes more than anything else. Just make sure whatever toys you do buy are suitable for a puppy as many will be too large for their little mouths to begin with. Interactive Puppy Toys So you can play games with your puppy, provide exercise and mental stimulation, you will want to buy a few toys that encourage the two of you to interact. Balls for throwing and chasing, soft toys and ropes for playing tug, other toys for fetch, there are many available. You will also need a collar to provide a place to attach an all important ID tag. ID Tag An ID tag is an essential means to be reunited with your puppy should the worst happen and you somehow lose them or they run away. Clicker A clicker is an extremely useful tool used during training as a reward marker that dramatically improves the timing of communication between you and your puppy when you want to reward a behavior. Although not essential, I do highly recommend you use one. Puppy Training Treats Tasty food treats are the go-to reward used during training so you will want to make sure you always have a good stock at hand. They need to feel happy with being bathed, happy having their coat and teeth brushed, their feet touched, nails clipped and having their eyes and ears inspected. To do so, you should fake going the process, getting them used to being handled, the sight and feel of the tools and so on. To achieve this, you will need to buy and get them used to the following items: Dog shampoo Combs and brushes suitable for a Labrador Scissors Cotton balls Toothbrush Use these tools right away and often, and give your puppy praise and tasty treats as you go so they form positive associations with grooming. Puppy Proof Your Home and Garden The process of puppy proofing your home is very much like baby proofing before the arrival of a child. Except a puppy is far more curious, active and destructive and can get themselves into far more trouble. A puppy is a new-born. Everything is a toy and they will run and pounce and jump and chew on anything in their environment. So before you bring your puppy home you simply must make it safe for them. For things you cannot move skirting boards, table legs etc. To keep them safe while still providing an area for them to play in and stretch their legs, you want to restrict their access to a single room, or otherwise create an enclosed space for them. To do so, either buy a pet barrier or baby gate that goes across a doorway to restrict them to an easy to clean and safe room, or buy an exercise pen puppy pen to create an enclosed space in another room. I also strongly recommend buying a crate for many reasons, but initially, mostly just to provide the perfect place for them to sleep. I shall discuss crate training a little later in this article. All of this must be decided BEFORE you get your puppy home because consistency is a key part of raising a puppy successfully. Everyone must enforce and live by the same rules for your puppy to thrive. Initially they have no idea how you want them to behave, or how and when they can expect the things they want and need in life. The more consistent everybody is with the puppy, the quicker they will learn all this stuff and the happier everyone will be. So decide and write down if necessary when your puppy will have all their needs met, make sure everybody knows who is responsible for each task and make sure everybody knows the rules. You might think the collection and journey home with your new puppy is no big deal, but there are many things can go wrong. Therefore, you should never take a puppy before 8 weeks old. During the first 8 weeks, a puppy learns a lot from their mother and litter-mates: Bite inhibition, canine body language, acceptable play and interaction with other dogs and how to accept discipline. Things you will find it very hard to teach them later yourself. The flip side of this is that the 7 to 14 week stage is the most impressionable for a puppy, where they bond strongest with people and must be socialized to all the sights, sounds and smells of the world so they grow up confident and comfortable with their surroundings. So anyway, for the journey home there a few things you need to consider: Safety in the car, the need for water and toilet breaks and the possibility your puppy will be sick. Having a loose puppy in the car presents a very real danger of leading to a crash, they can easily climb out of a box and now is not the time to use a harness and car safety belt. If the crate is small enough you can place it on a front or rear passenger seat and secure it with the seat-belt, or you may have to place it in the trunk of your car. Fully line the crate with absorbent paper in case there are any accidents, this will keep most of the mess off your puppy and make cleaning easier. And finally, place a chew toy or two in the crate to keep your puppy occupied. If you have another person to help you, your puppy can ride home in their lap if the journey is short. They must be under your passengers control. They will also need to potty every half or so. Therefore, you should plan breaks along the way every 30 minutes or so. Stop the car, allow them to drink, then wait for them to wee before setting off again. When you stop, make sure your puppy is on leash and tightly held by someone before letting them out of the car. And as an extra precaution, carry your puppy and only put them down to do their business, then carry them back into the car. Take with you some towels, plastic bags, kitchen roll and deodorizer to take care of any accidents. And when driving, take all corners slowly, and accelerate and brake gently. If your puppy is on a passengers lap, they will be able to see some warning signs that puppy is about to be sick: Their lips will curl, they will excessively salivate and then eventually start to heave. When your passenger spots these signs, they can place a thick towel beneath the puppy to catch everything and avoid a mess in your vehicle. When bringing home a new puppy, make sure you collect them and then drive straight home. Your puppy is having the most stressful day of their short life so far, try not to make it harder than it already is by taking them to strange places and passing them around to strangers to say hello. You want to get them home quickly so they can start the process of settling in as soon as possible. Whether this is inside on paper, or a spot outside, as soon as you arrive home carry them there, set them down and wait for them to do their business before doing anything else. This might take 30 seconds or it might take 10 minutes, but patiently wait and when they go, praise them profusely. Well done! Shut them in another room away from the puppy as things are intense enough as it is. Explain they have to be calm and gentle during the first introductions. Let them sniff and look around, getting used to the area and their new little world. You can now let people come and say hello. Have people sit or kneel to greet them. Once everybody has said hello, you should stay with your puppy, show interest but stay calm. Allow Your Puppy To Sleep After all the excitement, stress, massive change and huge amount of mental stimulation your puppy has just been through, they will likely need to sleep soon after arriving at your home. So as soon as they either start to look tired, or the introductions to their new living space and family have ended whichever comes first put them to bed for a short while. On the other hand they might feel completely overwhelmed, retreat into themselves and show reluctance to explore. They might slink into a corner silently and sit there watching their new world with wonder but apprehension, before falling asleep for hours. And when it comes to the first night they might sleep right through, or they might cry and whine the whole night. As your puppy begins to get used to everything, their character will start to shine through and you will begin to see their true personalities. Exactly what this will be is different for every puppy…it will be fun for you to find out! And by being the provider of everything they need in life, giving them all that is good, it will only take 2 or 3 days for your puppy to learn to love you and get excited and happy to see you when you turn up. So your task is to set up and stick to these schedules, begin training your puppy and help them to learn how you want them to behave and when they can expect the things they need in life. What should you feed your puppy You should feed your puppy the same food they had at the breeders because an abrupt change in diet almost always leads to stomach upset. Complete and balanced means it has everything a puppy needs, and in the right quantities. So seek out this kind of wording and check the internet for other owners reviews. Puppies need to eat a lot because their rate of growth is very high. For puppies up to 12 weeks, you should divide their daily requirement into 4 portions, for puppies 12 to 26 weeks, feed them 3 times per day and from 26 weeks on feed them twice per day. You should also aim to feed them as close as you can to the same times every day and evenly spaced throughout the day. This will help their body clocks fall into a pattern and will help your house training immensely because they then potty the same times every day. For example: 8 to 12 weeks old, 4 times a day at AM, AM, PM and PM 12 to 26 weeks old, 3 times a day at AM, PM and PM 26 weeks old and ongoing, 2 times a day at and Obviously you can adjust these times to take into account when you get out of bed and to fit around your life. Also… The first few nights have the crate or exercise pen your puppy sleeps in placed in your bedroom. One night move the crate next to the bedroom door. The next night move it outside the door, but leave the door open so they can still see you. The next night further into the hallway. Finally to their eventual resting place. They might take to sleeping on their own OK, they might whine and cry. NEVER go to them to comfort them if they cry, you must only get up to take them to potty and then silently and without fuss put them back into the crate. Rewarding silence and ignoring noise is the only way they will eventually learn to be quiet at night themselves. Any time you cannot closely supervise them, you have to confine them, either in their crate, an exercise pen or a puppy proofed room secured with a barrier across the doorway. The point of confining them as a puppy is so they can enjoy all the freedom in the world once they are an adult. By confining them with treat dispensing chew toys they get rewarded for chewing the right things and develop a chew toy obsession. Confine them now, they form a good chew toy obsession and have no chance of developing bad chewing habits. Then once they are over their adolescent chewing stage you slowly open up the house to them and eventually they can have free roam and be completely trusted. A little sacrifice when young for a better life later. And a second hugely important reason for confining your puppy when you cannot supervise them is for speedier house training. In fact if you read my comments from earlier, you will see you start the very first moment you finish the journey home. In essence, house training is about creating good habits while avoiding bad ones and for the speediest success you want to start immediately. Wherever your puppy is able to potty has the chance of becoming their favored toilet spot for many weeks or months to come. So you want to prevent them pottying inside, and encourage them to potty outside. The main ingredients of a successful house training program are preventing mistakes and praising heavily for doing the right thing. Achieving this is all about schedules, supervision and confinement. Now, your puppy will need to potty anywhere from every 15 to 45 minutes. So to start with, take them outside every 30 minutes and adjust this schedule to suit their natural rhythm. You must also take them outside immediately after they wake up from any sleep, after any eating or drinking, after play and after any heightened excitement. These are times that often lead to a puppy needing to potty so take them outside at these times and you will avoid many mistakes while taking advantage of predictable opportunities to praise them for doing the right thing. In the first week or so, you will likely find your puppy almost instantaneously leaks with little warning. Simply do your best to take them out to potty extremely often so they go in the right place as often as possible. And confine them to a single enclosed room or in an exercise pen for the first week or so to protect your carpets. Crate training goes hand in hand with house training, being one of the best tools to help speed up the process. Therefore, you want to start crate training very early on, after just a few days of getting puppy home, and I personally aim for 9 weeks old to start. I prefer to wait a week or so to avoid them pottying in the crate as much as possible, doing the most I can to preserve their instinct not to soil where they sleep, the instinct that helps most when using a crate for house training. But by all means sleep them in their crate at night if you wish and I do. For more information on crate training your puppy and using it for house training purposes, please see the links below:. How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be chuffed. Take a look at these first few articles. All the ingredients you need for a happy home. But for now, beside your bed is the best place for your puppy to sleep — it will help them feel safe. Puppies like their crates rather cave-like; we suggest covering it with a blanket to block out light, but keep the front open so that they can see outwards. Make sure to make it snug inside with something like a vet bed or a blanket, or why not take it up a notch with a heat pad or hot water bottle to recreate the feeling of their mother. Nothing feels more comforting than that. Before you head to bed, take your puppy out for one last round of loo-going. Set your bedtime at a later time too — midnight sounds about right. Come back calmly, and place your puppy in the crate and turn out the light. Stuff you should know about Sleep Training your Labrador Your puppy will wake up several times in the night and will need the bathroom at least once! Be prepared for not-so-deep sleeps and tired mornings — just for the first few weeks. Having them sleep next to you is only temporary. Consistency is key! As for you, full nights of sleep will start getting closer and closer. Alone Training How can I teach my Labrador puppy to be ok on their own? Start by feeding your puppy in their crate during meal times. If they seem worried by you leaving, stay in view, and just pop right outside their confinement area. Keep it short and sweet: No need to stay away for long, 60 seconds tops will do for now. Repeat: Do this at least once a day to make progress go steady and smoothly. Socialization Exercises To Do this week Letting your Labrador puppy explore the yard Besides the gnomes and questionable yard furniture you may have, letting your puppy explore your own yard is a great and safe way to start showing them the sounds, lights and wonders of the outside world. Exploring different surfaces exercise Make sure that the surfaces you use are safe — nothing too crazy just yet. Gather surfaces such as An oven tray with a small layer of water A piece of astro turf A carpet tile A large piece of tin foil, cardboard or something crinkly PRO TIP: Set up for this exercise in the room your puppy spends most of their time in — it will help them to feel safe and confident. Pop the surfaces out safely on the floor and allow your puppy to investigate them. Nobody has ever enjoyed walking on those. Remember to be patient! Lucky for you — teaching them their name is easy peasy. Say their name in a happy jolly tone and reward with a treat. Repeat five times, 5 and take a break. Practice this 2 or 3 times a day so they get the hang of it. Teach your puppy to sit Teaching your puppy how to sit is a popular one. The first two are far more common though. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow it up with a food reward. In puppy logic, stinky means yummy. How to do it Start at home; where there are no distractions. Just make sure to shut off Gogglebox in the background. Recall — How to teach our Labrador puppy to come back when called Your puppy already knows their name at this point, so this should be a walk in the park. How to do it Treats and a cheerful voice will be what works here. Do these exercises before meal times so your puppy is more motivated. Practice this 5 times a day and in 3 different places in your house and yard to get them used to coming to you in all settings. How to do it Show your puppy that you have their favorite toy, and start to get them excited about it. When they show interest, throw it a little bit away from you. They will likely follow it and pick it up. If they do, encourage them back to you with your voice, so remember to sound happy! Swap the toy for a treat or another toy and do the process again. Repeat this about 5 times. Instead create more distance and excitement sounds to get them to come to you — spaniels like to show off, so they will likely want to parade what they have! Always swap the toy for something when they have it, this could be a treat or another toy. Resource guarding occurs when we force puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. For breeds like Labradors who are designed to want to hold things in their mouths, this is pretty important! Resource guarding is when a dog protects a resource from being taken by someone else — dog or human. For some reason, there is a solid list of things puppies find irresistible: Socks. However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on. Learning to be alone Happiness is a Balancing Act Your job is a bit of a balancing act. Keeping your little one happy, while ensuring that he is educated in the ways of our curious human world, and that he learns to behave himself Here are a few tips to help you along the way. This is natural and normal. It makes them feel safe. Puppies also feel safe if they have a den, a place of safety, like the whelping box or nest where they were born, to rest in when they are on their own. But you can hurry that process up by leaving the door open all day and leaving food and nice toys in there for your puppy to find. If you or your children are very excited, your puppy will get excited too. He may get very overexcited, which is when biting can get very out of hand. Of course, there are bound to be times when, despite your best efforts, your puppy gets a little too over-excited. But, learning how to deal with this can help calm things back down. Outdoor Time To Potty I get a lot of questions from people that are struggling with potty training because they are expecting a new puppy to go too long without a wee during the day. Sometimes two or three hours. Some eight week old puppies will empty their bladder in the garden, come indoors and wee again just 15 or 20 minutes later! This is very annoying, but it is a short-lived phase. Restricted Access Many people find it hard to cope with their puppy simply because they are giving him access to too large an area of the family home. He has no chance of learning to be clean if he cannot be watched constantly by a family member and is far more likely to have accidents on carpets, than on hard floors. He will also be constantly in trouble for chewing things he should never have been able to reach. Baby gates are a brilliant way of restricting very small puppies to a fairly small designated part of your home with washable floors. The puppy can then be gradually introduced to more rooms as they mature. The Right Feeding Routines Puppies often have sensitive tummies. Especially in the first few days and weeks in their new home. Most Labrador puppies are greedy and will eat large meals. The quantities on food packet are daily rations and should be divided into at least four portions to begin with. And the result is can be a nasty attack of diarrhea, although of course there are other causes of upset stomaches too! Puppies need to be out and about. There is a small period of time during which puppies can easily accept new experiences. And after which they become fearful of strangers, strange objects, and strange experiences. This unique time slot is called the window for socialization, and it is all but closed before the puppy is 14 weeks old. So you need to get your puppy out and about, meeting all kinds of people, vehicles, shops, machinery, and so on. Positive Reinforcement Leads To Happiness! Nowadays we train dogs using positive reinforcement. Essentially this means with rewards. These rewards can be anything he enjoys, from toys, to food, to simply running around. But puppies need to be shown how to earn rewards the right way. So that we get the right responses from them. It is all too easy to reward your puppy for doing the wrong things. Lots of puppies learn to bark to get attention for example or to jump up to get a stroke. There are lots of games you can play with puppies to help them learn how to earn rewards. Let the puppy know what you like them doing with a marker word like YES and follow it up with a treat. You can start rewarding your puppy like this, for making eye contact with you, right from the very first day. Learn To Be Happy Alone? All companion dogs need to be alone at times. And the best time to learn this skill is when he is small. As soon as your puppy has settled in to his new den, after the first few days it is time to start leaving him alone for short periods of time. Pull up a chair and start by getting the puppy used to being shut in the crate with you next to him. When he is happy to be crated while you are there, you can start leaving him for very short periods of time. Just a few seconds to begin with. Time Off The Leash! Small puppies have a powerful following response — I call this the safety response because they do it to feel safe. If you put and eight week old puppy on the ground and walk away, he will follow you. If you keep your puppy on a leash for the first six months of his life, when you let him off he will no longer have this following reflex, and you will have wasted a great opportunity to establish this good behavior. Check out below for a demonstration, on teaching the puppy recall. So that he can learn to follow in your footsteps as you lead the way in exploring the great wide world. Obviously this needs to be done in a very safe space. Later on when you take your puppy into a more distracting environment, you should attach a trailing line to their harness for safety. If your little one is allowed on the sofa today, he may think he is allowed on the sofa tomorrow. Decide what your rules are, and work out how to achieve them. Find out everything you can about how puppies learn so that you can teach your puppy how to live in our world, with love and kindness. Print We recently brought home Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to train her and raise her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. That means Bubba will be with for almost a year and a half. We train one or two of these puppies each year, and over the years we have gotten pretty good at it. We also train adult dogs for hunting and competition, so we see a lot of dogs come into our program. Dogs that have each been raised differently. There are some definite training tips that can help you help your lab grow up to be the best version of himself. Training and socialization for very young Labrador puppies — week one The first week of a puppy being away from its litter is very stressful for the puppy. Most often, the first two days, the puppy will sleep a lot! The pup is adjusting to all the changes, and they need time to do that. After the first couple days you may notice a spike of energy. This is your sign that the puppy is adjusting well and is ready to be exposed to a few more things. Labrador puppy training that first week home Here are the things we work on during week one. A nylon adjustable one is usually best since puppies grow quickly. It often takes the puppy a few days to adjust to having a collar on. Intro crate We introduce our puppies to a crate on day one. Literally the day we bring them home. Most puppies will cry, bark or howl while in the crate the first few or many times. Ignore it, it does not hurt the puppy at all. Always wait until the puppy settles down and is quiet, even if that quiet only lasts for just a minute or two. Learn more about crate training. Intro to housebreaking Another day one lesson and one that will last for a few weeks or months. We introduce housebreaking day one by allowing the puppy to run around an enclosed area under close supervision. If your puppy then goes potty outside, great! The thing to remember about housebreaking, is that your puppy should never be allowed to roam the house or a room without supervision. The only way to housebreak a dog is for them to get caught in the middle of an accident. That is how they learn that what they are doing is not right. Learn more about housebreaking. Intro leash We introduce a leash to our puppies around day three of being home. But once they start getting more energy and get more inquisitive, we use a Flexi-lead attached to the nylon collar to take the puppy outside. This accomplishes two goals. The gentle tugs on the leash and pressure when the puppy strains against the leash are great training for handling pressure as they get older. Intro to pressure and correction The last thing we introduce to our new puppy during the first week home is pressure and correction. This is an often-missing element to training that can severely handicap a dog that you want to be a hunting companion or competition dog. The kind of pressure I am talking about is very mild such as saying NO to the puppy when they are chewing up your shoes or scratching through the carpet. This is the way mama dogs carry their puppies and it does not hurt them at all. This does not hurt the puppy; it is exactly what a mama dog does to teach her puppies. Learn more about introducing pressure and correction. Commands to start using that first week home The first week there are some commands we start using so that the puppy will associate the words we use with actions. Puppies play and explore with their mouths, and often they will think it is great fun to bite your hands and feet. If this does not curb the behavior, I grab her lower jaw, wrapping her gums around her teeth and squeeze. I have found this to be very effective, especially if you start this the first week you have the puppy home. The longer you wait to start, the harder it becomes to stop this behavior. It takes very little pressure to stop a 7-week-old puppy from biting. Learn more about how to stop your Lab puppy from biting you. Off command The OFF command is also started day one. The OFF command is used to stop a puppy or dog from jumping on you. It can also be used to keep a dog off a sofa or other furniture. Starting day one, I gently use my knee to push down the puppy each time they jump on me. I say OFF when I do this. Usually, a gentle push with the knee is all it takes with a very small puppy. They learn this command very quickly. If your puppy is a bit more energetic or stubborn and tries to jump on you despite your gentle pushes, then you may need to use a little more force. Even if you were to knock your puppy backwards onto her back, that is not going to hurt her seriously. But it will likely make a good impression and cause her to think twice before jumping on you again. With jumping, consistency is important. You must knock your puppy off every time she jumps on you. Learn more about how to stop your Lab from jumping on you. We use this as a que when we are taking the puppy outside to go potty. We use this while the puppy is on a leash, and we are pulling them toward us. I only use this command for very young dogs. Your goal is to get the puppy to rest in your arms and not move. But if you keep at it, you will see your dog settle for longer and longer periods of time. Introduction to retrieving Lastly, since all our puppies are retrievers, we start introducing the puppy to retrieving. The first few times are simply throwing a toy a few feet and if the puppy runs out and gets it and comes back to you, great. Then take the item and throw it again. If the puppy does not come back or does not even run out to get the item, then stop for the day. Just let the retrieving develop naturally. Next week we will start more formal retrieving training. Final thoughts on what you should do that first week with your new Labrador puppy As you can see, there is a lot of training that you can do with your seven- or eight-week-old puppy. And while you can wait for training, your puppy is ready and able to learn quickly right now. I will be posting weekly on the training we are doing with Bubba, so you can get a week-by-week snapshot of how we raise and train a puppy up to be a excellent, responsive hunting or competition dog as well as a well-mannered family dog. If you are struggling or need additional help with your new puppy, you can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time, happy retrieving.

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 American Bulldog Overview American Bulldogs are generally happy, family-loving dogs that do well in homes where they have plenty of space to roam. A big, fenced-in backyard is practically a must-have for one of these energetic dogs, though exercise needs may vary by specific type and breeding. They may be just fine with urban life, so long as they get plenty of walks, and they can even make good jogging or running buddies. They do not, however, take very well to being left alone for long periods of time, and they can feel cooped up in an apartment. American Bulldogs need experienced owners who can be patient with training and start socialization early. Whether they are used for hunting and farm work or just cuddling up with their humans, the American Bulldog makes for an excellent, loyal companion and a competent watchdog. American Bulldog Highlights Temperament: They are known for their loyalty, protectiveness, and affection toward their families. American Bulldogs are often described as gentle giants, making them good family pets. Intelligence: These dogs are intelligent and trainable, but they can also be strong-willed. Early socialization and consistent, positive reinforcement training are crucial to ensure they grow into well-behaved adults. Exercise Needs: American Bulldogs are an active breed that requires regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy activities like daily walks, playtime, and even agility training. Lifespan: The average lifespan of an American Bulldog is around 10 to 15 years, depending on genetics, diet, and overall care. Family Compatibility: American Bulldogs can make excellent family pets when raised in a loving and consistent environment. They are known for their patience with children and are protective of their human family members. Guardian Instinct: Due to their protective nature, American Bulldogs can be good guard dogs. They are naturally watchful and alert, which makes them capable of providing security. These two lines may have slight differences in appearance and temperament. Always check local laws and regulations before acquiring one of these dogs. American Bulldog History The ancestor of the American Bulldog is the Old English Bulldog, which was brought to North America by working class immigrants who wanted to keep their working dogs to help on the farms. Rather than being concerned with maintaining breed purity or certain genetic traits, early farmers bred the dogs with the best working qualities for all-around farm work. Wild pigs were an invasive species not native to the American south that had no natural predators, and the strong jaws and muscular build of the American Bulldog was perfect for hunting them down. They were originally used in the barbaric sport of bull baiting. By the end of World War II, the American Bulldog was almost extinct until a few breeders scoured the south for specimens to revive the breed. Today, the American Bulldog is in no danger of extinction and is mostly a family-friendly companion. Adorable American Bulldog puppies will grow to 20 to 28 inches in height and 60 to pounds by the time they reach adulthood. Although these sizes are considered to be standard for the breed, American Bulldogs can be quite a bit larger or smaller. American Bulldog Personality American Bulldogs are friendly, intelligent, and affectionate , though that affectionate nature often leads them to be territorial and overly suspicious of strangers. This makes them lovely family dogs and watchdogs, even for families with children, but they will need socialization training, especially as puppies to get along with unfamiliar humans or other dogs that stop by for a visit. Luckily, their intelligence makes them highly adaptable and trainable. The American Bulldog is a playful breed that has some high exercise needs, and they do well in families that are able to stay active with lots of walks and play time. They can develop in American Bulldogs and may require surgical removal for treatment. It can lead to itching, hair loss, and skin irritation. Treatment typically involves medicated baths and sometimes oral medications. This can lead to weight gain, lethargy, skin issues, and other health problems. It is usually managed with lifelong medication. It can lead to lameness and discomfort, and severe cases may require surgical intervention. Elbow Dysplasia : Elbow dysplasia is another developmental disorder affecting the elbows. It can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis in the affected limb. Treatment may involve medication, weight management, and in some cases, surgery to correct the condition. American Bulldog Care Most of the care that is necessary for the health of an American Bulldog is meeting their needs for exercise and mental stimulation. Failing to do so can result in anxiety, boredom, and destructive behavior. So long as those needs are met, the rest is fairly standard. Maintain normal vet visits, check their ears weekly, keep up with monthly nail clipping and normal dental care. One of the issues you may face is the potential for drooling that is common among bully breeds. You should take care to wipe your dog as needed unless you want a generous amount of slobber all over your home. American Bulldog Feeding An American Bulldog diet should be formulated for a large to giant breed, and their high energy level should be taken into consideration. Their needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood. You should discuss with them how to form an appropriate diet for your dog. Traditionally they are white with patches of brindle, red, or black, but there are quite a few more color variations to the breed in modern times. They may have patterns that include shades of black, red, brindle, brown, or fawn. American Bulldogs usually have black on the nose and the rims of the eyes, but they may also have shades of pink. Their eye color is usually brown. Although these are breed standards, some American Bulldogs have been known to be merle or have coats that contain shades of blue. Weekly brushing should keep it under control with baths as needed. So long as they are trained properly, American Bulldogs are great with children and are very loyal to all members of the family. It is also important to train children on how to properly handle and treat animals to avoid incident. American Bulldogs are large animals, and overly energetic play can cause injuries. The same can be said for interactions with other pets. So long as American Bulldogs are socialized and trained, they usually get along with other dogs just fine. Play should be supervised, especially with smaller dogs that can easily get hurt when playing with a large, muscular American Bulldog. You can also check local shelters near you, or you can use our adoption page that lets you search by breed and zip code for adoptable dogs. American Bulldog Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues. More Info For You. Their personalities are easy to love; they have a confident demeanor and are known for their almost clown-like antics when excited, making them an excellent family companion. This breed is quite family-oriented but may be distant with strangers at first. Their characteristic aloofness to outsiders helps make them great guard dogs. With consistent training and established rules and boundaries, this powerful pup can learn with the best of them. As a working breed, they were known for their wild pig and cattle catching abilities, making them indispensable on southern ranches in the US. Grooming Hurray for easy care! Make sure your vet gives your pup a professional cleaning every year, too. Be sure to put nail trimming every couple of weeks and ear cleaning monthly is usually enough on the grooming menu, too. And as for baths, plan on a bath about once a month or so. You may be able to just use your nose. If you detect an unpleasant odor eww! Training When it comes to training, an American Bulldog puppy needs a confident pup parent who uses positive reinforcement to teach various skills, such as how to walk nicely on a leash and come when called. Start training your American Bulldog puppy early to get them used to the ropes. Once you understand what works for them, training becomes easy. Remember: American Bulldogs are smart. These social interactions give your dog a chance to explore a variety of environments and social situations. Feed your puppy large-breed puppy kibble for their first 14 months to support slow but consistent growth. Skip food or supplements with calcium until your pooch is fully grown and eating an adult diet. The added calcium could disrupt healthy bone development. Treats are an essential part of training and a great way to show your pup you love them. However, too many treats can lead to a tubby pup, so check with your vet if you need help figuring out a proper treat-to-mealtime ratio. Exercise Even though they have a moderate energy level, an American Bulldog needs a lot of exercise. And exercise is important to keep your dog out of trouble. If they have unused energy, an American Bulldog will resort to destructive behaviors to release that energy, like chewing on your favorite pair of shoes. This athletic dog benefits greatly from structured walks and play to work the mind and their muscular build. As a puppy parent, strive to offer non-impact movement such as hiding balls in the yard or offering a puzzle toy, as these games lower the risk of joint and bone damage early on. Get out of the house twice a day or more if your young dog is up for it for playtime and walks that last between 20 and 30 minutes. Trainers often suggest skipping the dog park because structured play is more difficult in this setting. Instead, get creative with activities. Think: fetch, tug-of-war with a rope toy or a chewy option filled with something delicious. You may even try lower-impact dog sports like agility or nose work. Both are an excellent way to keep your pup mentally and physically engaged. Remember, a happy dog is a tired dog! Ideal Environment Both city and country homes will suit the American Bulldog as long as you can offer lots of exercise and playtime. Still, families with kids are a good match for this protective and intelligent breed. A structured day with regular walks and chances to play with a variety of toys is the best environment for the American Bulldog. Staving off boredom is paramount, and, of course, no animal likes to be home alone for a long time. When considering the American Bulldog as a pet, bear in mind that training is the key to their success, especially when adding this breed to a home with kids or other dogs. Pup parents need to be aware of some of these issues so they can help their dog live the healthiest life possible. Joint Dysplasia: This joint abnormality is seen in the hips and elbows, and a dog with dysplasia may run, jump and climb less than usual. Most often, the issue is a rupture or partial tear. Cherry Eye: Did you know dogs have a third eyelid? Bone Cancer: Often found in the long bones arms, legs , the cause for this condition is unknown, though vets feel it may have a genetic or environmental component. Deafness: Deafness, which can occur in one or both ears, may be acquired via drug exposure or infection. But deafness could also be hereditary and is linked to dogs with light coats and eyes. Acquired deafness is usually permanent but may improve over time without intervention. A special diet may be the treatment or medications, depending on the cause. Spinal Issues: Degenerative myelopathy DM is often genetic in nature and affects the spinal cord, leading to weakness and hind limb paralysis. Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis: NCL is an inherited, progressive and rare neurological disorder that starts showing up between 1 and 2 years of age. The most obvious symptom is behavioral changes in the dog, and the pup will usually lose coordination and eyesight. It can be discovered through a DNA test, and at this time, there are no treatments. This proud pup carries an imported pedigree, having been brought over from across the pond as a descendant of the English Bulldog, which was originally bred for bull baiting. Thankfully, this horrific sport was outlawed in England in .Back in the 17th century, early settlers packed these working dogs with them for service on farms and ranches. The American Bulldog became a utility player, stepping in to accomplish many tasks, such as guarding livestock and catching cattle and feral pigs. In fact, were it not for their success as an excellent catch dog in the southern states, we might not know the breed today. John D. Johnson and Alan Scott were able to breed the last few native American Bulldogs in the southern US, resulting in two types the Scott type and the Johnson type that thrive today. These breeds differ in appearance; the Johnson American Bulldog sports a bigger, stronger build, a larger head and short muzzle, and the Scott American Bulldog has more lithe features, such as an athletic, small-boned frame and a longer muzzle. Are you looking to add an American Bulldog as a family member? Check out the AKC puppy finder to find a reputable breeder. You can also seek out local American Bulldog rescues to find a worthy, loving dog to call your own, or keep an eye out for the breed at your local shelter. FAQs Do American bulldogs shed? Yes, American Bulldogs shed, albeit lightly and seasonally. Are American Bulldogs Pitbulls? Are American Bulldogs aggressive? American Bulldogs may be aggressive toward other dogs, particularly unfamiliar ones of the same sex, in part because of their protective and somewhat dominant nature. But with consistent training and early socialization, this breed is considered a loving family dog that does well with kids and other pets. How long do American Bulldogs live? American Bulldogs can have a generous life span, often living between 10 and 12 years. Providing your dog with the proper diet and exercise can help your pup live a full life. What are the most popular American Bulldog names? Get more dog names here. What are the most common American Bulldog mixes? Families of all kinds admire this agile, athletic breed and count themselves lucky to own such a loving, loyal pet. Female Names. Your browser does not support the audio tag. Description The very muscular, sturdy and powerful, yet compact frame of the American Bulldog remains higher on the leg, more agile and swifter than its English counterpart. Some individuals are reportedly able to leap six or more feet into the air. Males are characteristically stockier and heavier boned than the more refined females. The head is large with strong jaws. Agile and light on his feet, the chest is wide and moderately deep, giving the sense of athletic ability and power. The neck is muscular, tapering from the shoulders to the head and may have a slight dewlap. The head is square, large and broad with muscular cheeks relatively in proportion to the size and overall structure of the dog. There is a defined furrow between the rounded eyes, with a distinct, sharply defined, deep stop. The strong muzzle is broad and square. The preferred bite is reverse scissors, but a moderate underbite, scissors or even bite are acceptable. A variety of ear types are acceptable including cropped, rose, half-pricked and forward flap. Uncropped ears are preferred in the American Bulldog Breeders Association standard. Eyes are most often brown, but can come in any color. They sometimes have split eyes, where one eye is brown and the other eye is blue. Black eye rims are preferred on white dogs. Pink eye rims are considered a fault according to the written standard. The nose is black, red, brown or grizzle; black is the preferred color according to the standard. In black-nosed dogs, the preferred lip color is black, though some pink is permitted. The lips should be full but not too loose. The front legs are heavy-boned, strong and straight. The hindquarters should be very broad and thick with well-defined muscles. The tail is low-set, begins thick at the base, and tapers to a point. The coat is smooth and short, and comes in all shades of brindle including red brindle, varying degrees of white, red, brown, tan, fawn and piebald. Temperament The American Bulldog is loyal, reliable, brave and determined. Not a hostile dog. Alert and self-confident, this breed genuinely loves children. It is known for its acts of heroism toward its master. It has strong protective instincts, and needs a firm, confident, consistent pack leader. Well-socialize and obedience train them at an early age, to prevent them from becoming reserved with strangers. Without that strong-minded pack leader who can tell the dog what is expected of it, it may be aggressive with other dogs. They need to be around people and know their place in their pack to be truly happy. This breed tends to drool and slobber. Without enough daily mental and physical exercise they will become high strung and may become hard to handle. Height, Weight Height: Males 22 - 28 inches 55 - 70 cm Females 20 - 26 inches 52 - 65 cm Weight: Males 70 - pounds 32 - 54 kg Females 60 - pounds 27 - 45 kg Health Problems Prone to hip dysplasia. Living Conditions The American Bulldog will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. Exercise The American Bulldog should be taken on a long daily walk. Life Expectancy. Life Span Did You Know? The American Bulldog is a descendant of a generic bulldog type of dog breed brought into the region that is now the Southern United States by working-class immigrants many years ago. These were all-around working dogs used by small farmers and ranchers for several tasks around the farm. They were often found working as catch dogs, stock dogs, and overall farm guardians. When feral pigs were introduced to the New World, they had no natural predators and the population quickly grew out of control. In addition to their farm duties, the settlers found the bulldog-type dog to be the best solution they had for dealing with it. So, the bulldog continued to thrive, especially in the South. Johnson and Alan Scott that we have what we know today as the American Bulldog. Modern American Bulldogs can still be found working as all-around utility dogs, farm dogs, catch dogs, cattle drovers, and more. They can also be found competing in dog sports, working as a guardian, police, or military dog, and are also popular as a family pet. This dog breed is a sweetheart with a gentle, fun-loving nature. The American Bulldog is affectionate and adores their families. They also love children and tend to be good with other animals. American Bulldogs can have a high prey drive, so you will want to make sure you introduce and socialize them properly with other small animals in the household. Due to their protective nature, they can be aloof towards strangers and strange dogs, especially when they are younger. Early socialization can help them be more comfortable navigating their guardian instincts. Overall, this dog breed tends to be confident, social, and are most at ease and relaxed when they are with the people they love. American Bulldogs are an emotional dog breed and thrives on human attention and affection, so they tend to bond strongly with their owners and may come across as clingy sometimes. They will also often convince themselves that they are lap dogs regardless of their size, so make sure you are ready for a lot of love and cuddles with your American Bulldog, drool and all! The American Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They are strong, high-energy working dogs that love being around their favorite humans. This makes them better suited to larger homes with space for them to run. They are not generally a good fit for apartment living, but they can adapt as long as they get more than enough exercise and attention. Because they do tend to bond strongly with their owners and want to be near them, they do not tend to do well with long periods of time alone. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, but can adapt to well to most climates. There are some health issues that can be found in specific genetic lines and are not common to the breed overall, but these can be ruled out with genetic tests. Some potential health conditions to be aware of in general with the American Bulldog include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, thyroid disorders, kidney disorders, bone cancer, and eye-related issues like ectropion, entropion, and cherry eye. Talking to the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and asking to see any health clearances can help allay potential concerns. American Bulldogs are highly trainable and eager to please, so they are a good fit for owners of any experience level, including first-time dog owners. They can have a stubborn streak, so a first-time dog owner may want to consider enrolling in puppy training classes. As with any dog breed, early and ongoing training and socialization are important for your American Bulldog puppy to grow into a well-rounded, and a well-behaved, dog. This dog breed has a short coat that is generally smooth. Common coat colors are white and predominately white with patches of brindle, black, or red. More coat color patterns are emerging and becoming more common like all shades of brindle, fawn, brown, red, and more. The American Bulldog is relatively low maintenance and easy to groom and they are light to moderate shedders. They only require a bath as needed. But, you will need to be prepared to deal with some extra drool! Floppy ears tend to trap moisture and dirt, which can lead to ear infections. The ideal dental care for dogs is using an enzyme toothpaste or brushing their teeth every day. Dental hygiene chews or treats, a specially-formulated dental care diet, and more can be used to supplement your dental care efforts. The American Bulldog is an athletic and high-energy dog breed. They love daily walks and plenty of playtime outside. They may even enjoy plenty of other activities with you like swimming, hiking , and more. With their working dog background, this dog breed does need a job to do in order to stay happy and healthy. They also tend to be a good candidate for dog sports like obedience, weight pulling, the Iron Dog competition, and more. A fully-grown American Bulldog usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. An American Bulldog generally lives for years. Chance, one of the canine stars from the Homeward Bound films, was an American Bulldog. Featured American Bulldog Article. Vocality level 3 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament The American Bulldog is an agile, confident and loyal protector for his human family, as well as of personal property. He is a gentle, affectionate and loving companion, albeit fearless and ready to strike should any intruder cross his path. An energetic, active working dog, the American Bulldog exudes a dominant, powerful and athletic appearance, with strong muscles and substantial boning. He gets along well with young children, as well as dogs and other pets so long as he was raised with them from the start. The American Bulldog does not do well when left alone for prolonged periods of time. With proper socialization, training and regular exercise, the American Bulldog is a true companion and excellent watchdog. Upkeep Because of his working past, the American Bulldog is quite familiar with being outdoors, but like most dogs, he thrives on living indoors with his owner. As such, he should be frequently exercised with plenty of engaging activity to burn off energy and combat boredom, avoiding consequential destructive behavior. Otherwise, the American Bulldog is a relatively low-maintenance breed, requiring not much else than mopping up his regular drool and slobber and minimal grooming for his short, fine coat. Known for his strength, courage and ease around livestock, the breed began being used for bull baiting before it was outlawed in England. Consequently following the ban, the breed was replaced with the less athletic, shorter and stockier English Bulldog. Meanwhile, the original bulldog type was preserved by working class immigrants, who brought them on their journey to America to use as all-around working dogs on farms and ranches in the South. Johnson worked to revive the breed alongside Alan Scott and other breeders. Today, the modern American Bulldog as we know it remains a well-rounded working dog, courageous guard dog and faithful family companion. Related Content.

This should be a very friendly dog that might try and herd you about the house and might have offensive tendencies. Is it also like the Boxer or the Catahoula? Those are the issues we will try and answer below. While we suggest that you get all animals through a rescue , we realize that some people might go for a breeder to get their Catahoula Boxer Mix puppy. If you are involved in helping pet rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer provides to help support shelter animals. This could make for a very big and strong breed with a lot of power and a high victim drive. Both of these parent breeds have more powerful energy and a very strong victim and drive abilities. They should get along fine with other pets if shown and socialized correctly as well. They are slightly fitted to independence or alone time when the family is loud or full. She reacts well to concrete coatings, like all dogs. More: Catahoula Leopard Dog temperament Catahoula Boxer Mix Health All dogs can evolve hereditary health difficulties as all breeds are sensitive to some things more than others. But, getting a puppy is one real thing because you can withdraw this as much as possible. A rancher should give a fitness guarantee on puppies. More: Catahoula dog colors Catahoula Boxer Mix Care Both of these dogs have slightly shorter hair and should be moderately easy to groom. The Catahoula will drop more, but it still has less hair. Be able to clean them a few times a week. Both way, get ready to buy in a good space if you want to keep your grounds clean! Give them showers as required, but not so much that you wipe out their skin. Never bind your dog up outward — that is inhumane and not fair to him. Each one is different and has different dietary conditions. Most dogs in the U. A mix like this one likely to hip and elbow dysplasia should be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin additions as soon as possible. A good diet to see into is Raw Food and one might want to also consider an all natural dog supplement to help support overall health. Also known as Boxhoula or Boxahoula, this crossbreed is an excellent watchdog. It can have aggressive tendencies if untrained, but all that energy is manageable through training. However, if your brood loves action and spends the most time outside the house, the Boxer Catahoula mix is the right breed for you. This intelligent, loyal, protective, and energetic dog is excellent with kids. Your Boxhoula will enjoy running around and bonding with your family while getting much-needed exercise. To minimize its aggressive tendencies, acquaint your Boxhoula slowly with your other dogs and family members. Raising a Boxer Catahoula mix breed is inexpensive compared to other hybrids. You can brush its hair once a week and clip its nails once a month. Overall, the Boxahoula is a low-maintenance breed that you can take care of without help from someone else. To compensate for all the energy a Boxhoula spends, it needs a diet packed with fats and protein. You can consult your vet on what high-quality dog food you can get or what specific diet it needs. Pathogens from raw food can cause illness. Be mindful of what you give to your Boxhoula if you want it to be strong and healthy. All you need is to regularly take your Boxhoula for a walk to get its daily dose of exercise. With its high-energy level, the Boxer Catahoula should get 90 minutes of daily exercise. You can divide this into either 2 or 3 sessions to cut time and not exhaust your dog. For example, instead of walking your dog for 90 minutes straight, you can have two minute walks with your dog. Another way is to break it into three minute walking sessions. A Boxhoula needs proper training to manage its behavior. It may be bright, but it can also be stubborn to train. This hybrid dog needs a firm hand to take care of its assertiveness and social aggression. Provide opportunities for your dog to socialize by taking it often to dog parks to mingle with more people and dogs. The more activity it gets, the easier it is to train since it helps manage behavioral problems and aggression. Remember that when training your dog, always give positive reinforcement. All dogs respond well when adequately rewarded. Although the Boxer is a popular breed, the Catahoula is rare. The Boxer Catahoula mix is a lesser-known crossbreed among the Catahoula mixes. You may have to look for a reputable breeder who can give you a healthy Boxer Catahoula mix. Paul S. Paul has been creating content for the dog niche for many years. The information he shares comes his first hand experience growing up in dog lovers household and then owning multiple dog breeds of his own as an adult. Paul enjoys doing the hard research to collect, analyze and present our dogtemperament. This mixed breed has the potential to inherit the best characteristics of both parent breeds, but it can also end up with some undesirable traits. Catahoula boxer mix history. The Boxer Catahoula mix is a relatively new breed, so there is little known about its history. However, we can take a look at the history of each parent breed to get a better understanding of where this mixed breed comes from. The Boxer dog is a German dog breed that was originally developed in the late 19th century. These dogs were also used for hunting, but they quickly became popular as family pets and working dogs. You may like: Catahoula lab mix. Catahoula leopard dog breed. The Louisiana Catahoula leopard dog is a medium to large sized breed that typically weighs between 35 and 90 pounds. These dogs have short, dense coats that can be any color or combination of colors. They are known for their webbed feet, which help them swim well and also make them good at running and climbing. Catahoulas are high energy dogs that need plenty of exercises. They are also very intelligent and can be easy to train. Overall, these dogs are loyal and loving companions. Boxer dog breed. The Boxer dog is a medium to large-sized breed that typically weighs between 50 and 80 pounds. These dogs have short, smooth coats that are usually fawn or brindle colored. They are known for their square heads and floppy ears. Boxers are high energy dogs that need plenty of exercises. You may like: Reverse brindle boxer every thing you need to know about this. Catahoula boxer mix temperament. The Catahoula boxer mix is a high energy dog that needs plenty of exercises. These dogs are also very intelligent and can be easy to train. If you are considering adding a Catahoula boxer mix to your family, be sure to do your research and make sure these are the right dog breeds for you. These dogs need plenty of exercise and attention, and they may not be the best fit for every family. However, if you are prepared to provide them with the love and care they need, they can make wonderful additions to your home. Catahoula boxer mix diet. The Catahoula boxer mix is a high energy dog that will need a rich diet in proteins and fats. These dogs should also have access to plenty of fresh water. A good quality dry dog food can be a good option for this breed, or you can talk to your vet about other dietary options. Catahoula boxer mix exercise. The Catahoula boxer mixes will do best with an active family that can provide them with plenty of opportunities to run and play. A daily walk or jog is also a good way to keep these dogs happy and healthy. You may like : why is my dog panting? Catahoula boxer mix training. The Catahoula boxer mix is a smart breed that can be easy to train. Start socialization and obedience training early, and use positive reinforcement techniques. Catahoula boxer mix grooming. The Catahoula boxer mix is a relatively low maintenance breed for grooming. These dogs will need to be brushed regularly, and their nails should be trimmed every month. You may like: How much is catahoula lab mix? Adding a Catahoula boxer mix to your family. If you are considering adding a Catahoula boxer mix to your family, do your research and make sure this is the right breed for you. Be sure to supervise all interactions between your new dog and other animals until you are confident that they get along well. Have patience during this transition period, and soon your new dog will be a happy and well-adjusted member of your family. The Catahoula boxer mix is a high energy dog that needs plenty of exercise. These dogs can be easy to train. I grew up on a farm where we had all sorts of animals, from cows and horses to pigs and chickens. My love for animals led me to pursue a career in writing about them. I have been a pet care writer for over 5 years and have extensive knowledge of animal care, health, and behavior. However, its immediate parents are the Catahoula leopard dog and the Boxer. I will tell you some features of their parents so you can easily identify a Catahoula Boxer mix. For example, healthy Catahoulas and Boxers weigh about 65 to 90 pounds. Therefore the Catahoula Boxer mix will weigh just as much. In addition, the parent dogs shed light to moderate hair year-round. Therefore, you may notice shedding on a Catahoula Boxer mix. If you take good care of the crossbreed dog, it can live up to 12 years. I have given you a further description of a Catahoula Boxer mix in the next section. This article will help you distinguish a Catahoula Boxer mix from other resembling dog breeds. You will also learn how to care for a Catahoula Boxer mix. It is a beautiful, energetic dog that will get along with family and pets if you start socializing it from puppyhood. What is a Catahoula boxer? A Catahoula Boxer is a crossbreed descending from a Catahoula and a Boxer dog. They usually have white markings, dropped ears, and tight-fitting skin. The dog is of a medium to large size and weighs between 65 and 90 pounds. It is an extremely energetic, and athletic dog breed requiring significant mental and physical stimulation. Like its parents, the crossbreed will shed its hair throughout the year. A Catahoula Boxer mix needs a lot of space to walk, run, and play. However, caring for the dog is pretty simple. Take the dog for regular walks in the dog park or on the beach. That also allows the Catahoula Boxer to interact with strangers and calm its anxiety. If you train the dog properly from an early age, it will get smart, independent, and fun-loving. Catahoula leopard dogs have an instinct for hunting and herding and Boxer dogs are guard dogs. Therefore, Mixing the two dog breeds means you will get an energetic and extremely powerful Catahoula Boxer. The dog can dig and bite clothes or books everywhere in your house. Catahoula and boxer mix info Here is some in-depth info about a Catahoula and a Boxer crossbreed: 1. Breed information The crossbreed between a Catahoula leopard dog and a Boxer dog is called a Catahoula Boxer. The dog mix might have occurred through accidental breeding. A female Boxer will crossbreed with a Catahoula to give birth to seven Catahoula Boxer puppies in two months. However, a female Catahoula leopard dog crossbreeds with a male Boxer and gives birth to about 10 puppies. It is a medium to large dog that shares many similarities with its parents. The head, mouth, and nose of the Catahoula Boxer resemble that of Boxer dogs. The coat and hair color looks like that of Catahoula leopard dogs. A Catahoula Boxer mix likes raw food to give it the wolf experience. You can shop for a Catahoula Boxer or adopt one from the rescue. It is always good to adopt. Size As I said earlier, a Catahoula Boxer mix is a medium to large-sized dog. They vary in size but will reach between 51cm and 63 cm tall and weigh about 40 to 80 pounds. They have extended chests like a purebred Boxer dog. Since they will grow to medium and big sizes, use their 16th week birthday as the predictor for their adult size. Despite its size, the crossbreed is a rather friendly dog when trained properly. Temperament and family friendliness The Catahoula Boxer mix has a strong protective instinct. It will not be friendly to strangers or other pets unless you socialize or train them in their early life. But generally, a Catahoula Boxer is friendly and will always try to herd you and your loved ones. They make excellent guard dogs. A Catahoula Boxer is agile, energetic, and loyal. Like Catahoula leopard dogs, the crossbreed is very loving with family members. They earn their reputation by being very patient and protective of children. However, a Catahoula Boxer is not as intelligent. You can train it good habits and socialization skills, but it will learn slowly. Although training the dog takes a lot of effort, it is worth it because once they are used to a routine, Catahoula Boxers will stick to it. Always introduce Catahoula boxer mix to strangers gradually. If the person will stay with you much longer, feed your dog next to the stranger, then alongside the stranger, and then let the stranger start feeding your dog. Color and appearance The Catahoula Boxer mix has white markings and tight-fitting skin. The dog has a single coat that is quite coarse but not very rough. In that case, a Catahoula Boxer mix might have amber, blue, brown, or green eyes on one or both eyes. Another identifiable characteristic of the Catahoula Boxer is their ears, mouths, and faces. Most importantly, they are not hypoallergenic dogs. Catahoula Boxers will occasionally lick and bite their coat, leaving allergens that could endanger the life of anyone allergic to dog dander and saliva. That is because Catahoula mix will shed hair throughout the year. I will tell you how to deal with Catahoula Boxer mix shedding in the general care info. Lifespan The correct care will give a Catahoula Boxer mix an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years. Petfinder is a great place to start. They have rescued several dogs, treated them against common dog infections, and fed them appropriately. Therefore, Catahoula Boxers adopted from Petfinder have higher chances of reaching ten years and above. However, that does not mean you will not treat your dog forever. A Catahoula Boxer is prone to certain health issues that can lower its life expectancy if left untreated. Health issues The most common health issue the Catahoula Boxer faces is hip dysplasia. The first signs of hip dysplasia in Catahoula Boxers are decreased range of motion and difficulty running, jumping, or climbing. Another significant health issue you should be aware of is Degenerative Myelopathy. Height: 20 - 24 inches at the shoulder Weight: 35 - 82 lb. Lifespan: 10 - 14 years Boxer Catahoula Mix Personality Like all hybrids, you have to look to the parents to get a good read on how they will likely behave. This could obviously make for a very powerful and strong breed that will have a lot of energy and a high prey drive. Both of these parent breeds have higher energy and a very strong prey and drive instincts. They should get along well with other animals if exposed and socialized properly as well. They are somewhat capable of independence, or alone time when the house is noisy or full. She responds well to positive reinforcement, like all dogs. She should be rather affectionate and enjoy spending lots of time with you. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. The Boxer mixed with the Catahoula might be prone to Cancer, heart problems, hypothyroidism, bloat, deafness, eye problems, patellar luxation, Note that these are just common problems in both breeds. Boxer Catahoula Mix Care What are the grooming requirements? Both of these dogs have rather shorter hair and should be pretty easy to groom. The Catahoula will probably shed more, but it still has shorter hair. Be prepared to brush them a few times a week. Either way, get ready to invest in a good vacuum if you want to keep your floors clean! Give them baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out their skin. Never tie your dog up outside - that is inhumane and not fair to him. What are the exercise requirements? Plan on taking them for extremely long walks and hikes to keep their energy level down. This exercise will keep them from being destructive. A tired dog is a good dog. A tired dog is a good dog though. What are the training requirements? This is an intelligent dog that will be a little bit challenging to train. They are going to want to take the alpha position and need someone with a firm, strong, hand that can let them know their place. The best thing you can do is break the sessions into shorter daily sessions to keep their attention span higher. It might have a prey drive and be disposed to running for and chasing small prey, but if handled properly this can be managed. All dogs respond best to positive reinforcement. So make sure to praise her when she does well. She is an intelligent dog who loves to please, and loves a physical challenge. The more exercise she gets the easier she will be to train. Proper socialization is imperative to all dogs and puppies. Make sure to take her to the park and doggy day care to get her around as many people and dogs as possible. Boxer Catahoula Mix Feeding A lot of times diet is done on a per-dog basis. Each one is unique and has different dietary requirements. Most dogs in the U. A mix like this one that is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia should really be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible. Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia. A good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet. A raw food diet will be especially good for the Wolf background. Links to other breeds you might be interested in. Meet Maximus Last Weigh-in: .It may take him a few days to trust you, but once he does, you are his best friend! He follows me every time I go to a different room, even for just a second. When I first got him, he even missed me so much he gently climbed into my shower and just sat there staring at me, waiting for some pets. He comes home and takes a big nap when he is done, and in general, is a very calm, sleepy boy, as long as he gets his walk. If you take a chance on this big baby, he will love you forever and ever!! He takes a little while to warm up to you but is very sweet once he does! We rescued Juno back in October of .She gave birth to 8 beautiful puppies at our vet's office, and each puppy went on to other foster or permanent homes as well as their mother, Juno. Maximus found a temporary home with some folks who no longer had the means to care for him. As is our promise to every dog we save or birth, in this case, we took Maximus back with loving and open arms. Maximus is such a fun, lovable pup with a hint of an old soul to him, just like his mother. He gets along great with other dogs and cats and warms up to new people after some TLC. Max is good with dogs, cats, and kids but would probably be best with older dog-savvy kids. He is, after all, a big boy. Behaviors not listed have yet to be tested. Considering Maximus for adoption?

Found on the street, homeless, hungry, and maybe sick. Or worse dropped off by his family for being old or unwanted. Shivering in a cold strange place that smells of bleach and other dogs that overwhelm him. The endless barking day and night. Wondering what happened -- what did he do wrong to be put in such a place? What will happen? How many days until he feels the needle that takes him to sleep forever? Or, will he be one of the very few to be found by someone looking for a new family member or maybe a rescue that understands the need to help him. Do they know his breed and are they good at finding just the right home? Will he be lucky enough to be placed into a forever home where he will find that he has a new family to be a member of? In reality, once lost or turned away from their family and left with a broken heart, dogs go into a self-protective shield. Once they realize they don't need to be afraid anymore, their true personality blossoms like a beautiful rose. A truly awesome experience to witness.All dogs are hands-on evaluated. We are a foster-based rescue and all dogs live in private homes prior to adoption. We DO adopt outside of the State of Arizona, but you must be willing to travel to Arizona to meet a dog and us. Home visits are required and may be accomplished by a local rescue or a video call with one of our staff members. The adopters are responsible for coming to Phoenix, meeting the dog and then taking him or her home with them. These are all purebred German Shepherd Dogs.Because they are! There is a tremendous degree of variation within this breed, which is why we go to such lengths to ensure that the dog in which you are interested is, indeed, the right dog for you, your household and your current lifestyle. GSDs vary in structure, type and temperament, contingent upon the lines from which they were bred, coupled with their level of training and socialization. While you may prefer a certain "look," take care to make temperament, drive levels and the dog's history, the most important factors in choosing the right companion.First and foremost, we are all about the DOG. We do not place a dog into a home just because we need to make space for a new rescue. We put the dog's best interest at heart at all times and will not place a dog into a home that is not suitable. They are set, taking into account the dog's age, training level, medical condition s if any and other factors. Some dogs require that hundreds of dollars and many weeks, even months, be spent before they are ready for adoption; others do not. Adoption fees are used, not only to rescue and place the dog you are personally adopting, but to aid in the future rescue and rehabilitation of other deserving dogs. Adoption fees are necessary; without fees our rescue efforts would quickly come to an end. Office expenses add up as well. Rescue is an expensive undertaking, both financially and emotionally, and is motivated solely by our passion for German Shepherd Dogs. We are volunteers. We volunteer our time countless hours every day , and we are by no means wealthy. We do not make a profit and seldom break even. Adoption fees come in and go right back out to the next rescued dog. Once a questionnaire is submitted, you will be contacted usually within 24 hours to set up an introduction with the dog s that you are interested in if they are a suitable match for you and your family. All owners are required to sign an Owner Surrender form prior to placement. Love For Life Program Our Love 4 Life program offers dogs with terminal illness or other conditions that makes adoption not a likely with a forever home in a loving foster or our rescue center. We provide the medical care, food, medicines and vaccinations - you provide a safe and loving home! How you can help There are numerous ways you can help our rescue - from volunteering to becoming a foster! But did you know you can also help us out by simply shopping on Amazon or grocery shopping at Fry's Food Store? Check out all the ways you can help us save more lives! Learn more on helping Help us build a new safe haven After saving over 1, lives, we are happy to announce having a premier safe haven is near! In , our rescue received an amazing gift from a previous adopter: 5 acres of land. We plan to build a grand facility which will include a home that exudes a feeling of safety and warmth. Every dog that comes through the doors will know he or she is safe, loved and, most importantly, home. Right now is a crucial step, though. Your support will go even further this year as we have a very generous matching challenge. Read more about our future location and plans! We are endlessly thankful for your continued support! She has endless amounts of energy and genius level intelligence. She will need someone who can give her a LOT of physical and mental exercise. She loves attention and will need loads of it. Carmen will need: hours of exercise a day Daily training for mental stimulation No small children in the household No other dogs unless the handler is experienced with Malinois dogs living with other dogs No cats or small pets in the household A strong, active handler Someone who has experience with Malinois dogs If you can meet these requirements for Carmen then she will be one of the sweetest, most loyal, and loving companions you can find! If interested in meeting Carmen and learning more about her, please submit an adoption application. Note: We will only schedule meet and greets with an approved application. We are an all-volunteer organization. It may take a couple of days to process an application and complete reference checks. Become a volunteer Have you given thought to becoming a foster or volunteering time at our Dog House or Sanctuary? Visit our Volunteer page to learn more details along with a link to our volunteer application. We also have a great need for fosters! Our rescue only has so much capacity to intake dogs which is at max most of the time, so having fosters allow us to continue helping increase the amount of lives we can save together! You provide a safe and loving landing space until their forever family comes along. You can help make a difference! Our mission will always be to help rescue a homeless or suffering German Shepherd or other dog out of a dire situation. We rely on donations and fundraisers to enable us to help needy dogs. It is the generous individual and group donations that empower Saving Paws Rescue Arizona to be able to help. We thank you for your support! Seniors for Seniors We are looking for fosters for our program, Seniors for Seniors, to provide comfortable homes to older German Shepherds. All expenses will be paid by the rescue, including food, medications and vet visits. You just provide the loving home! Open up your heart and your home to become part of our Seniors for Seniors! Contact us at sprseniorsforseniors gmail. By volunteering and fostering, it lead to his creation of Max and Neo. Right now, they are holding a fundraiser for us by donating gifts to supporters in helping build our new safe haven. Depending on the size of donation made by a supporter, Max and Neo will be sending either collars, treats, beds, blankets, or even paddleboards. A recurring monthly gift will be more gifts from Max and Neo, such as the monthly collar club. Share A Story! German Shepherd Rescues In Arizona A small commission may be earned on any purchases made via links on this page. Read our full affiliate disclosure. German Shepherd Rescues In Arizona The German Shepherd is a unique breed, able to do a wide range of jobs, including being a wonderful pet for you. If you are looking for German Shepherd rescues in Arizona, you are very likely to find one in this area. There seems to be many German Shepherds that need rescuing in this state. Here are some of the best places to rescue a German Shepherd in Arizona. They are based in Phoenix Arizona. In the past, they have accepted owner surrendered dogs as well as saving dogs from shelters and breeders, but because their space is currently limited, they are not accepting owner-surrendered dogs at this time. Since they were founded in , Saving Paws Rescue Arizona has saved over 1, lives. Saving Paws Rescue Arizona was founded by a volunteer with the local animal shelter, Trisha Houlihan. She noticed how many German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois were listed for euthanasia. She knew that these dogs required specific resources, so she created a rescue specifically for them. In , someone who had adopted from Saving Paws Rescue Arizona in the past donated five acres of land to the rescue. The rescue plans to build a facility on this space where they can safely house dogs. He started fostering for the rescue seven years ago. In an attempt to raise additional funds, Max and Neo will donate gifts to the supporters of the rescue. If you donate to Saving Paws Rescue Arizona, you could receive collars, treats, beds, or more. They have young puppies, adolescent dogs, and seniors available. They also have purebreds and mixed breed dogs. You can view their current list of dogs available for adoption here. If you are interested in adopting from this rescue, just submit an application. Be patient, as it may take as many as five days for the application to be reviewed. If approved, a meet and greet with one of the dogs that you are interested in will be arranged. This is a wonderful way to get acquainted with this unique breed. This program places dogs that are at high risk of euthanasia that would otherwise have a difficult time being adopted out because of their health, age, or behavior into permanent or semi-permanent foster homes Saving Paws Rescue Arizona also has a sanctuary where they keep dogs that cannot find an adopter or foster home. Some of these dogs display behavior that could be very problematic in the community, such as aggression. Rescue and Adoption Details. You never know when you might stumble upon a group that is having a breeder place a puppy for free. Whether you have a young family, or one adult, with a German Shepherd dog and a lot of children as well as adults, it is always best to know what is involved before trying to bring a dog home. Many children like to play with dogs and it is important to consider that you will need to make sure your German Shepherd dog can be around children. This can be done by having children sit behind the dog and watching it for a while before letting the child pet it. If your kids decide that they do not want to get near the dog, there are other places where they can take the dog that will help them stay out of the way. It may be a good idea to have the children help with training the dog. This can be done by training it at your home or in a dog park. This can help the children understand what is going on and can give them some confidence when it comes to dealing with dogs. By teaching them how to handle the dog, it will be easier to introduce them to the dog when it is older. As mentioned above, having children help with training a German Shepherd may be a good idea if you have a large family. By doing this, you can avoid having to train the dog on your own, which will also be easier. It can also help the children to learn some basic dog training. By getting your children involved with this, it can be easy for them to teach the dog how to behave when it is around children. If you find out that your local area does not have German Shepherd puppies available, then you can look online for some places that can provide these types of dogs. When looking online, make sure that you do some research so that you can find a reputable site. If you can, try to see how much the cost of shipping is. This will allow you to see if the price is worth it. Another thing that you can do to get free German Shepherd puppies in AZ is to talk to a breeder. These breeders are usually willing to share their dogs with people and will do what it takes to get the dog that they want to have for themselves. They may be able to help you find the dog you the dog that you want. Many people have German Shepherds but cannot afford to pay for a veterinarian or the cost of having a dog because of insurance. These people do not have a lot of options. But, the good news is that these people can find other ways to get their dog without spending a fortune. If you are looking for free German Shepherd puppies in AZ, then look for places where the animals are available. You can visit some animal shelters, or search on the Internet for places where they might be looking for someone who will give them a dog. Remember to research these sites and see what you find. To find the free German Shepherd puppies in AZ, you will need to research all of the available options. You will find that there are a lot of different ways that you can get the dog you want for the price that you are looking for. Once you find the dog that you want, you will have to make sure that you find a good home for the dog. If you cannot care for the dog right away, then you will have to think about getting another dog. By being prepared with the dog that you want, you will be more likely to be successful. When you have found a good home for the dog, the next thing that you have to do is find the best way to get that dog from the animal shelter into your home. This is a very important part of the entire process. You will have to make sure that you are ready to offer the dog all of its needs and wants before you even bring it into your home. You will have to make sure that it has everything it needs. This includes food, medical attention, exercise, time with you, and plenty of love and attention. Looking to adopt German Shepherd puppies in AZ or any other German Shepherd breed is pretty simple if you know where and how to look. Most of these animals are bred at a local shelter, but if you can find one that accepts un-bred animals they can be great pets. These dogs are wonderful with children, but they are very dominant so you need to be prepared for that before adopting. But if you can find an animal shelter or rescue that accepts these dogs then it may be the easiest thing you have ever done for a pet. As mentioned above, some animal shelters will only accept un-bred dogs, but they do accept some breeds. So if you are looking for free German Shepherd puppies in AZ then your best bet would be at the animal shelters. They also may not have any current behavioral issues and usually come from loving homes that are willing to give them a second chance. A lot of these stores will have classes on grooming, feeding, and exercise. This will be a big help for you to get started with training your German Shepherd. The internet is the third place I would recommend checking out. Many free online German Shepherd rescue groups have websites. Their main focus is to get dogs that are homeless back into loving homes where they belong. So you know they will be free and that they have no ulterior motive. You can also sometimes get free German Shepherd puppies in AZ from a shelter. Some of the places that place animals like this are the local animal shelter, or the pet adoption center. These places are absolutely wonderful to work with because they give you the chance to adopt a dog, get it tested, and see how it will react to being around people. The staff in these centers are very understanding and caring. Lastly, you can always ask around to see if anyone has free German Shepherd puppies. Just be honest with the people you ask. Tell them that you are in search of a German Shepherd pup and that you would really like to get one. If there is, then make sure to stop by and check it out. It might be just what you are looking for. Also, these places are great places to get some German Shepherd puppies for sale, because they usually offer to take trade-ins as well. So if you require a German Shepherd pup, then I would recommend going on the internet. There will be literally tens of thousands of results. Try and look through them to see if anything catches your eye. The free ones will be on the way soon enough. Share this:.

NET I am no longer able to log in or send out from the epix. I apologize for any inconvenience. Thank you. With many years of experience in ethical, responsible breeding as members of the German Shepherd Dog Club of America - we adhere to the standards they provide. Our AKC registered dogs are deeply rooted in select German lines, and select American lines with a careful breeding plan we produce puppies, 4 to 6 annual litters, that excel as cherished family pets, working and show dogs. We are also expanding what we train or introduce our pups to, we have plans to bring in canine agility training and conformation. We remain active with our dogs and take great pride in ensuring that our pups are raised in a healthy, well socialized and loving environment. We talk below about some of the specialty areas that our pups have been and will continue to be successful in. You'll find our pups grow to be great protectors, wonderful pets, excellent in the fields of search and rescue, remarkable therapy dogs - it all begins with our puppy training. Ursus De Parayas We are eagerly expecting puppies from Gracie and Drogo the first week of November, with puppies ready to go to their new home in January! Gracie is AKC reg. Drogo is our most recent German import! Please fill out the application on our website or inquire for information. Most of our litters are spoken for before they are born. Families choose their puppies at 6 weeks and choose in the order which we receive deposits. Puppies have gone to police departments, fire departments, and as service dogs across the country. Puppies come with their first round of shots, are de-wormed at 2, 3, 4, 6 and 8 weeks, and raised with our family. They are accustomed to loud noises, environmental stimuli, water, spend most of their time outdoors and are given weekly baths. We stand behind our puppies-they truly are superb! So kind and sweet. We are blessed to have found Amanda. They are excellent protection, work and family dogs. They are happiest when exercised and given a job daily. Like all dogs, German Shepherds crave physical and mental stimulation. A good home is our utmost priority! Puppy Breeds The German Shepherd Dog is hailed as the worlds leading police, guard and military dog, however, this dependable breed is more than its 9-to-5 job. Consistently one of the United States most popular breeds according toAKC Registration Statistics, the German Shepherd Dog is also a loving family companion, herder and show competitor. The breed is approachable, direct and fearless, with a strong, muscular body. Derived from the old breeds of herding and farm dogs, the first German Shepherd Dog exhibited in America was in .The fame associated with Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart, two members of the breed whose movies played on variations of the boy and his dog theme, shot the popularity of the breed sky-high. Temperament Energetic and fun-loving, the breed is very fond of children once a relationship is established. He is a loyal family pet and a good guard dog, the ideal choice for many families. He requires regular exercise and grooming. The German Shepherd Dog is extremely intelligent. They are very easy to train with a firm hand and keep that training well. Herding Group; AKC recognized in .Ranging in size from 22 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Herding, police work.

A post shared by Joey Senft jsenftphotography There are varying reports about the exact history of the King Shepherd. According to the International Shiloh Shepherd Alliance , the King Shepherd began as a Shiloh Shepherd and splintered away when a breeder had a different vision for her dogs. The American King Shepherd Club is less specific. They do not mention the Shiloh as part of their breeding program, nor do they specifically mention the Great Pyrenees or Akitas. They report that the King Shepherd was founded by mixing German Shepherds with flock guardians and then breeding them back to Old German Shepherds from Europe. Either way, it seems evident that the origins of the King Shepherd are entwined with the Shiloh Shepherd. The Shiloh Shepherd began as a breed by Tina Barber, who had grown frustrated with the health and temperament issues in some German Shepherd lines. The King Shepherd split from the Shiloh Shepherd lines when David Turkheimer and Shelly Watts-Cross developed their own vision for the breed and wanted more of a working dog. So today, both breeds have their own association and breed standard. The King Shepherd is significantly larger than the German Shepherd. It also only has two coat types, straight and rough, or long and silky. On the other hand, the German Shepherd can have plush, double, or long-haired. There is also a difference in temperament. King Shepherds are bred to be stable and reliable dogs, but they may also be more independent and have a stubborn streak. Meanwhile, the German Shepherd is generally a highly trainable dog, provided it comes from good lines. Help Dogs In Need Our blog posts aim to provide comprehensive, accurate, and objective information on all types of dogs, helping our readers make informed choices that fit their lifestyle. We don't endorse any specific breeding practices, but advocate for ethical breeding and dog welfare. We encourage exploring adoption first. Countless wonderful dogs, from all breeds, await their forever homes in shelters. Remember, with AdoptDontShop, you can give a deserving rescue a second chance at happiness. What are the Physical Features of the King Shepherd? Originating in the United States in the s, these dogs were originally bred to create a German shepherd mix that had fewer health issues than a purebred German shepherd. American breeders David Turkheimer and Shelley Watts-Cross first bred a German shepherd with a shiloh shepherd a hybrid of German shepherds and Alaskan malamutes to elevate the best qualities of the German shepherd. In order to achieve the long-haired look they wanted, the breeders also incorporated long-haired German shepherds from European lineages. These European lines didn't just give king shepherds their distinctive coats, but they also boosted genetic variation. This was essential to reduce the risk of genetic issues that have become common in longstanding lineages because of inbreeding. Because king shepherds are a relatively new breed—and still fairly rare among American families—they are not yet recognized by the American Kennel Club. Between their grooming and exercise requirements, king shepherds need lots of time, energy, and attention in order to thrive. Exercise King shepherds are a high-energy breed that needs extensive exercise. Strenuous activity for at least one hour per day is a must. These dogs thrive in active, single-family homes with lots of space to run, walk, explore, and play. Because they're also very intelligent, king shepherds benefit from exercise routines that incorporate mental stimulation. Playing games like fetch, tug-of-war, or hide and seek are great ways for owners to keep this breed entertained. These dogs also excel in canine sports like agility training. King shepherds can become bored very easily, so it's vital to keep them engaged—and exercised—to prevent them from becoming destructive. Grooming King shepherds have thick, double coats that shed heavily. Brushing your dog several times per week or even daily can help reduce shedding and keep their coat healthy, clean, and tangle-free. It is very important to have a dog vacuum when owning a king shepherd. When it comes to baths, the king shepherd only requires standard bathing every three to four months. Check your dog's ears and clean its teeth regularly to prevent infections. If your king shepherd is especially active, running and walking can help keep their nails worn down, but trimmings should be performed as necessary. Training King shepherds are highly intelligent dogs, making training relatively simple for owners that are consistent and engaging. Basic obedience lessons can start in puppyhood between eight and 16 weeks of age, while more involved training should continue through the dog's life. Because king shepherds are so eager to please their family members, they can learn simple commands fairly quickly. Begin socializing your dog when you first bring him or her home to ensure they stay friendly and well-mannered with strangers and other animals. Pixabay Common Health Problems While king shepherds are generally healthy dogs, they're still prone to certain health issues like most breeds. Responsible breeders will test parent dogs for inherited diseases to prevent passing problems on to puppies; however, this breed's genetic variation does offer additional protection against genetic disorders. The following are common conditions that king shepherds may experience: Elbow and Hip Dysplasia : This condition causes a malformation in your dog's joints as they grow, which can lead to pain, instability, or weakness. Dysplasia is especially common in large-breed dogs. Von Willebrand Disease : This genetic disorder affects the blood's ability to clot after injury. Hypothyroidism : Affecting the thyroid, this endocrine disease reduces your dog's metabolic rate, which can lead to weight gain and other health problems in the future. Your veterinarian may recommend preventative surgery to tack the stomach down. Eye issues : Specific to the breed issues include pannus, glaucoma, and corneal dystroph. Allergies : King Shepherds are at risk for skin allergies like canine atopic dermatitis. Bloat : Since this breed has a large gastrointestinal tract, they are at risk for gastric dilatation volvulus GDV , which is a life-threatening condition. Diet and Nutrition Feed your king shepherd a high-quality diet with plenty of protein. This breed typically eats between three and four cups of dry food per day, and it's important to split these portions into several smaller meals to help prevent bloat. Since king shepherds are also prone to joint problems, owners should be especially mindful of their dog's weight. Canine obesity or excessive weight gain can put added stress on your dog's joints. To create a meal plan with the proper nutrients and portions, talk to your veterinarian about the best diet based on your specific dog's age, weight, and activity level. Where to Adopt or Buy a King Shepherd Before adding a king shepherd to your family, ensure that your home, schedule, and lifestyle can accommodate this large, energetic breed. These dogs require considerable grooming and daily strenuous exercise. Since king shepherds are still a new dog breed, they're not as likely to be found in shelters as their German shepherd cousins. Visit your local shelter to meet similar dogs in need of forever homes. If you plan to purchase a king s puppy, it's essential to research responsible breeders that readily provide the litter's family medical history. Your breeder should also allow you to meet the litter's parents and see the conditions in which their dogs are kept. To start your search, check out these breeding clubs dedicated to King Shepherds:. King Shepherds will worm their way into your heart with their winning ways. They are extremely loving and steadfastly loyal, as we mentioned earlier. King Shepherds are hard workers which comes from their shepherd instinct. They are eager to please and are quick to grasp what you want them to do. Are King Shepherds child-friendly? Do you want your kids to have memorable experiences with a cherished family pet? King Shepherds are playful and exuberant, yet they are still incredibly gentle with kids. They are also loyal and protective of their little buddies. King Shepherds have a playful, social side around other household pets. They are gentle even though they are large. Cats and other dogs are treated kindly by this giant. What more could you ask for as a guardian of the family? This is not an apartment or condo-sized pet. King Shepherds tend to fill even modest house space. So having a big backyard or a nearby park is a must. They will keep you on your toes, as they get bored quickly and thrive on a genuine challenge. If you look forward to coming home after a busy workday and just chilling out, then forget owning a King Shepherd. These dogs love strenuous exercise and movement. Get ready for long fast walks, jogs or bicycle rides where your King Shepherd can run alongside you. This dog possesses boundless energy. They will run about, jump up, leave muddy paw prints and knock things off shelves and tables with their tails. Under-exercised King Shepherds become bored and look for ways to burn off that energy. If they are not kept busy and exercised, their health and your well-ordered home will suffer the consequences. King Shepherds demand a fair amount of grooming. The bonding that takes place during grooming is an excellent experience for both of you. Daily vacuuming of shed and brushed hair and frequent mopping of paw prints is a reality — but worth the effort in my mind. There are some essential things you should know about feeding your King Shepherd. The dog food you buy for him should not contain artificial ingredients so ask your breeder or your vet for a good brand that they recommend or refer to our feeding guide for German Shepherd A typical serving for your adult dog is three or four cups of dry dog food per day. Divide this into at least two meals. Check with your veterinarian during regular check-ups to see if your King Shepherd in a good weight. We know by now that this is a super smart canine, but despite this, initial training will require a lot of patience, consistency, and persistence, as is with any other dog. However, as King Shepherds are so eager to please you, training will be really fun and your new canine companion will get the hang of it pretty quickly. Once trained, your King Shepherd retains the lessons taught. As long as you also remember and implement what you learned in obedience classes, then you are in for years of loyal companionship. Follow the training progress of this five-and-a-half-month-old King Shepherd 11 Need a Watchdog? This is one of the primary reasons dog owners cite for buying a King Shepherd. They are outstanding watchdogs. He can be counted on to bark if an intruder or a stranger tries to enter your home or accosts you. King Shepherds are courageous and formidable in appearance. But it pays to be informed. Because your King Shepherd is a crossbreed, they may have health problems associated with both of his parents. The good news is that hybrids like King Shepherds have what vets call hybrid vigor. This means they can be delightfully hardy and healthy. They may also inherit allergies and eye diseases, degenerative myelopathy, pancreatic problems and thrombopathia. In the market for a King Shepherd puppy? King Shepherd litters are usually between six and ten King Shepherd puppies. Backyard breeders are people with one or two dogs who breed as a sideline. Their dogs may be well treated but not necessarily looked after medically. On the other hand, puppy mill owners have one thing in mind — making money at all costs. They breed as many dogs as fast as they can and often under abysmal conditions. Inbreeding is rampant, and puppies often have genetic disorders. The American Kennel Club has suggestions for puppy shopping Find a knowledgeable breeder. Make sure you like the way he raises his dogs. Meet at least one of the puppy parents. This is a good indicator of appearance, size, and temperament of your future dog. Check to see if the kennel is clean. Does it look and smell nice? The puppies should look clean, well fed, well groomed, healthy and energetic. How does the breeder interact with the puppies? Does he care about his dogs and their future owners? Find out what has been done to protect your puppy from diseases. Ask for proof of health screenings and certificates. Get to know the breeder. He can be an excellent mentor and resource for you in the future. Good breeders care about the future of their puppies and are happy to provide support. If a breeder is rushing puppies out the door to make way for a new litter, you should beware. They need forever homes. Why not check out the All Shepherd Rescue website. Some of these rescue dogs may have abandonment issues. Some may have health problems due to lack of exercise, improper diet, or lack of medical care. You can turn his life around by offering him a forever home. If a King Shepherd is your wish, be patient and let local shelters know what you want. The next cost is making sure your new family member is healthy. You need to do an initial medical exam which is a brilliant investment. You want to prevent health problems down the road, and you want to ensure your puppy is in excellent health. Some breeders and most animal shelters do this as part of the adoption process. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. King Shepherds are prone to weight gain. Choose a high quality food and stick to a feeding schedule. Make sure your dog gets at least 60 to 90 minutes of walking or hiking per day, which will help keep them fit. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. One of the toughest jobs when caring for any animal is maintaining their oral health. You should brush their teeth a minimum of three times per week. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility with one-inch jumps. King Shepherd Feeding An ideal King Shepherd diet should be formulated for a large-sized breed with moderate energy. Limit their amount of treats, as well. The main coat colors are fawn, red, black, brown, and sable. Their coats are usually a combination of two or more colors. They usually have medium-length, normal density coats, and while they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing three times a week will probably do the job and bathing is recommended only as needed with a mild shampoo. Too much bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Their double coats do shed quite a bit. You will definitely want a vacuum on hand. See if a RoboVac is right for you! That double coat gives them an edge when it comes to extreme weather. Many of these dogs absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also help to keep them cool during hot summer months. A gentle giant, they are patient and sweet with kids. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. King Shepherds are nice to strangers and can get along well with dogs and other household pets, including cats. Early socialization is an important factor for developing a social dog. King Shepherd Rescue Groups Because the King Shepherd is a somewhat rare hybrid dog breed, it may be difficult to find a breed specific rescue. However, you can always check with your local shelter, and you may want to try a rescue that caters to all kinds of dogs. You can take a look at the following:. The head is in good proportion to the body and moderately wide between the eyes. The forehead, seen from in front and in profile, is only slightly rounded, with or without a medial furrow which is moderately well defined. The cheeks are not too full, are moderately curved, when viewed from the top should be much in the form of a "V," and are well filled in under the eyes. The thick, firm ears are of medium size, moderately wide at the base, set on high and pointed; they are carried erect and slightly forward puppies up to the age of months, and sometimes older, do not carry their ears completely erect. The eyes are medium size and almond-shaped, set somewhat aslant and not protuberant, as nearly as possible matching the surrounding coat in shades of brown, and from very light to dark are acceptable. The chest is deep and broad. Thickly feathered, the tail reaches at least to the hocks. The tail is carried down and slightly curved; when excited or in movement, the dog raises the tail, which becomes more curved, without however, going beyond the vertical. It must not, moreover, lie on or curl up on the back. Docked tails are inadmissible. The paws are round and short with a well-closed, arched. The pads are very hard. The nails are short and strong, generally dark in color. Dewclaws are usually removed. The King Shepherd comes in a wide range of acceptable colors. These are as follows: sable brownish tan with brown or black markings, or grayish silver with black markings ; black saddle with tan, gold, cream, tan or silver markings. Strong, rich colors and pigments are highly preferred. Small white spots on the chest are acceptable. Pale, washed-out colors are serious faults. The undercoat is invariably little colored, except in black dogs. White, blue or liver-colored dogs or a dog with a nose that is not black are not accepted in the show ring. Puppies change color from birth until they get their final coat. There are two coat varieties: coarse-haired, which is straight and longhaired, which is light and wavy. Temperament The King Shepherd is self-confident with a well-balanced nervous system and should not be shy. Extremely intelligent and easy to train. Faithful and eager to please its owner, this breed makes a fine working dog and sheep-herder. A courageous watch and guard dog showing courage and hardiness in his role of protector, it makes a very nice companion. The King Shepherd is full of strength and vigor. Friendly toward strangers, children and other animals. A docile, obedient breed with an easy gait and plenty of stamina. The objective in training this dog is to achieve pack leader status. It is a natural instinct for a dog to have an order in its pack. When we humans live with dogs , we become their pack. The entire pack cooperates under a single leader. Lines are clearly defined and rules are set. Because a dog communicates his displeasure with growling and eventually biting, all other humans MUST be higher up in the order than the dog. The humans must be the ones making the decisions, not the dogs. That is the only way your relationship with your dog can be a complete success. It does best with at least a large yard. Exercise The King Shepherd love strenuous activity, preferably combined with training of some kind, for this dog is very intelligent and craves a good challenge. It needs to be taken on a daily, brisk, long walk , jog or run alongside you when you bicycle. If under-exercised, this breed can become restless and destructive. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as in a dog's mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. Life Expectancy. The King shepherd breed has only been around since the s, which is recent compared to the lengthy history of the German shepherd. The pair is also trying to make the dogs larger. While David and Sally began working on the breed in the early s, the breed did not become officially recognized until .The breed became recognized because a King shepherd breeding club was established. King shepherds share many traits with German shepherds. Therefore, most King shepherds have a similar appearance to German shepherds. Still, there are some variations because King shepherds are a mixed breed. While their coats are similar, the biggest difference can be found in the size of the dogs. While German shepherds are large dogs, King shepherds are typically even larger and thicker. King shepherds were specifically bred this way to prevent some of the health issues that German shepherds face. What Size Is a King Shepherd? King shepherds are between 2. When standing on their back legs, King shepherds can be about as tall as the average human female. This makes King shepherds larger on average than German shepherds. King shepherds also have more mass on them. On average, they weigh between 90 and pounds. There is a lot of variation because of the potential mixed breeds used for breeding. King shepherds have medium-length coats. Their coats are soft to touch and pet, and feel snuggly against your body and hands. King shepherds can also have many color tones in their coats reds, browns, grays, and even black but they do shed often. For this reason, you have to maintain their coat to prevent health problems and discomfort. King shepherds are mellow dogs, but they can get excited, especially as a puppy. That said, King shepherds calm down as they grow older and only bark when provoked. Are King Shepherds Affectionate? King shepherds may be big dogs, but they feel like small dogs on the inside. This is why many King shepherds choose to lay on their owners and sleep in the same bed. King shepherds also love to play and get attention from their owners. King shepherds are good with kids for a few reasons. While they can be aggressive at times, King shepherds and toddlers can become best friends for life. King shepherds are social dogs. King shepherds get along with dogs, cats, and even some smaller pets. That said, we recommend introducing the animals at younger ages and giving them time to socialize. With King shepherds, this can take some patience and even training. Are King Shepherds Aggressive? King shepherds are not aggressive dogs. This is because of their calm temperament and low energy level compared to other breeds. When aggressive, though, King shepherds become dangerous because of their size and build. For this reason, we recommend training your King shepherd well and making sure you treat them appropriately just like you should with any dog! Do King Shepherds Bark a Lot? While King shepherds bark frequently during their puppy years, they grow out of this phase quickly. As they get older, King shepherds begin to bark less. Are King Shepherds Intelligent? King shepherds are intelligent dogs. Because of their intelligence, King shepherds are easy to train and be around. Are King Shepherds Easy to Train? King shepherds are easy to train for a few reasons. This helps them cruise through training with ease. We recommend against overloading them with commands, but you should begin training at a young age. King shepherds are also easy to potty train. Are King Shepherds Energetic? That said, they begin to grow mellow as they age. This occurs because of their calm temperament and larger size. Compared to small dogs that love to bark, King shepherds are quiet and lazy. Still, King shepherds love to play and have plenty of energy to use for outdoor activities. In fact, King shepherds are only mellow around the house. This is what makes them great dogs for first-time owners. King shepherds are not good apartment dogs unless you have a large apartment. Because King shepherds are larger and heavier than German shepherds, they need a lot of space and exercise. This makes King shepherds a bad fit for people who live in urban environments. Their size can also make it challenging for landlords to be okay with allowing you to have a pet on the property, especially if the dog frightens other tenants. Are King Shepherds Good Watchdogs? King shepherds are excellent watchdogs. While they are not aggressive towards their owners, unwanted guests can draw barks and growls out of King shepherds. This can alert owners to potential dangers and other issues. King shepherds can also serve as guard dogs if needed. King shepherds are great service dogs. The breed can be used in ways that German shepherds can be used, which makes them flexible. King shepherds can be used for police work, hunting, tracking, emotional support, therapy, and more. These dogs can also help people with disabilities that make it hard to walk or see things. How to Care for a King Shepherd? Caring for a King shepherd is similar to caring for a German shepherd. German shepherds have a mild temperament unless provoked and are easy to train. Therefore, King shepherds are easy to care for as long as you groom them, brush them, play with them, and provide them with the right food. King shepherds need to be groomed. While you can get away with grooming them less often if you brush them, not grooming a King shepherd leads to problems. This is because of their frequent shedding and soft coat. Without grooming, King shepherds become knotty, dirty, and even unhappy. Therefore, we recommend frequent brushing and grooming to keep your furry friend happy. Do King Shepherds Shed? King shepherds shed as much as German shepherds, which is a lot. There are also some seasons where King shepherds will shed more. You should also let guests know that loose hair will be around to prevent allergic reactions. With a King shepherd, having no hair around is almost impossible. What Should a King Shepherd Eat? While fats and carbs are helpful for King shepherds, carbs can make them hungrier throughout the day. In fact, we recommend replacing carbs with fats instead if possible. For the food, we recommend lean meats like chicken and fish alongside fiber-rich veggies. Many food brands are designed specifically for German shepherds and King shepherds. Remember, King shepherds are larger, so they require more food. King shepherds were bred to be resistant to health problems. While the breed is still a work in progress, King shepherds are less likely to suffer from the same ailments that German shepherds face. That said, the breeds do share some of the same health risks. King Shepherd vs. Many believe the German shepherd dog or GSD is the most majestic of all dog breeds, but his majesty may need to move over — the king shepherd is trying to claim that crown. With a name as regal as its appearance, the king shepherd shares part of its ancestry with the German shepherd. The two dogs look alike and have a lot in common, but they have distinct differences, too. German shepherd — for a head-to-head comparison. Instead, king shepherds are considered hybrid dogs. Because German shepherd and king shepherd breeds were created during different time periods, they were also bred for different reasons. German Shepherds Bred in Germany by Captain Max von Stephanitz, German shepherds were created from a mixture of the best local herding dogs. Rather than being bred for looks, they were bred for their intelligence and excellence in the field. A few generations of breeding eventually lead to a breed standard for both looks and temperament. Plus, their desire to protect their flock and family made this dog a good choice as a family dog, watchdog, or guard dog. They even made it big in Hollywood where Rin Tin Tin became the most famous dog in America in the s. This breed became and remains one of the most popular dog breeds in America. Their popularity led to high demand for German shepherd puppies, which led to overbreeding and a variety of health issues. King Shepherds King shepherds were first bred in the early s. Shiloh shepherds are a mix of American German shepherds, old European lines of German shepherds, and Alaskan malamutes. King shepherds are still suited for a wide variety of jobs, and they can make good police dogs, service dogs, and search and rescue workers. Because of their malamute genes, they also sometimes work in cart pulling. However, the king shepherd is recognized by the American Rare Breed Association and the American King Shepherd Club , which has set a breed standard for its looks and temperament. German Shepherd: Looks The king shepherd looks like a larger German shepherd the opposite of a Belgian Malinois , which looks like a smaller German shepherd. King shepherds have a wider, more square frame, without the sloping back often seen in purebred GSDs. Both king and German shepherds have dense double coats with a rough, weather resistant top coat and a soft, insulating undercoat that sheds heavily twice a year. Both breeds come in a variety of coat colors, including black, black and tan, sable, and bicolor coats. To care for their coats, both breeds will need to be brushed times a week to remove loose hair and distribute their natural oils throughout their coats. And to keep their coat healthy, both breeds benefit from a daily fish oil supplement. German Shepherd: Personality The German shepherd is a high-energy working dog that needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. King shepherds were bred to be companion dogs as much as working dogs. They move a little slower than GSDs and are gentle giants that make great family pets. When it comes to German shepherds, different breeders specialize in different traits. Some breeders focus on breeding highly motivated working dogs for police and military operations. Others specifically breed companion dogs. Because of their large sizes, both breeds will be easier to manage with early socialization and obedience training. Their high intelligence makes them quick learners that respond well to consistent training. German Shepherd: Health The king shepherd was bred with health in mind — breeders hoped to create a healthier version of the GSD. Mixed breed dogs are less prone to health issues than purebred dogs. However, king shepherds are also larger, and larger dogs tend to have shorter life expectancies than smaller dogs. Still, in spite of their large size, king shepherds do have longer lifespans years than German shepherds years. So, to an extent, breeders succeeded in their goal. However, because they have such a long line of German shepherd ancestry, King shepherds can still inherit the same genetic health issues that are common in GSDs. These issues include:.

Lifespan Sociability The German Shorthaired Lab is a very high-energy dog that requires a lot of exercise. Its intelligence and eager-to-please personality make for a dog that is easy to train and to teach tricks. They have good overall health, avoiding many of the health concerns that purebreds might experience. They are not aggressive and are generally happy dogs but are protective of their families, which will make them excellent guard dogs. The German Shorthaired Lab has retriever abilities. They usually inherit the retriever traits from both of their parents and are happy to play ball and Frisbee with their owners. The German Shorthaired Lab requires vigorous exercise. They need lots of walks and runs to keep them healthy and happy. A run on the beach or in a park will give them the mental and physical stimulation they require. The German Shorthaired Lab can become sniffer dogs. One of the traits of the German Shorthaired Pointer is working as an excellent tracking dog. If the German Shorthaired Lab inherits this trait, they can become a detection dog and work with law enforcement to detect narcotics and criminals. They are very good with children provided there is supervision if the children are quite young. Always teach your children how to approach any dog appropriately and how to play gently with them. Because of their need to play and run, they make fun companions for the entire family and will act as loyal protectors. Overall, the German Shorthaired Lab is a very easygoing dog that is friendly with pets and strangers. Overfeeding is possible for this hybrid because of the Labrador Retriever parentage Labs are notorious for eating too much, which is linked to obesity in this breed so do not leave food out for them for the entire day. They require a lot of exercise, and you should plan on taking this dog out for a long walk at least twice a day. This can also be accomplished by jogging or riding your bike with your dog running next to you and taking them to the park and throwing a ball around. This hybrid will do very well with an active family that plans on spending a lot of time and energy with their family pet. Like with all puppies, teaching socialization at a young age is imperative and train with a lot of positive reinforcement but with consistency and firmness. Brushing just once or twice a week will suffice unless your dog is shedding a great deal most typically in the spring and the fall. Then you might want to groom your dog every day. During this period only bathe your dog when necessary as overbathing could dry out the skin usually not much more than once a month. This hybrid does have floppy ears, and ear cleaning will be a necessary part of grooming. The usual teeth cleaning and nail trimming are additional parts of grooming necessary for all dogs. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. He is submissive with humans and other dogs.He is 75 lbs. Odin has been instrumental in our work with shelter dogs because he is so confident and friendly. Shelter dogs take to him immediately. There was one dog in particular who was terrified of everything and was reacting with aggression.When I got him home and introduced him to Odin, he completely changed his ways. He followed Odin everywhere and soon learned to trust people. Odin is really a fantastic dog. He lives for Frisbee.Odin is two years old as of Sept. He is a fun and energetic guy. Now full grown, he likes to try and cuddle even with his lb. Conformation is more like a short hair. She has web feet, loves to swim, combination coat-has a little wave in it during the cooler months. Probably the best dog I have ever owned. His dad is a purebred German Shorthair Pointer and his mother is a purebred chocolate Labrador Retriever. He is an amazing dog and knows over 20 tricks, along with herding cattle. He is an amazing dog and I think he is a wonderful description of the best mix of this breed. We sometimes say he is on steroids as he is extremely muscled and has no fat on him at all the shorthair in him. Sweet, lovable, intelligent, well balanced. Wishing there could be a forever. The father of the puppies is thought to be the neighbor's black lab. The puppies all received their first set of shots and were microchipped at 7 weeks, on June 27th. They have received their first treatment of Frontline and Heartguard as well, so they are officially ready to go to their new homes! Adoptive owners will be required to finish the remainder of the puppy shots if the puppy is adopted prior to them being due for their second round of shots. The owners will also be responsible for the puppy getting it's rabies shot when old enough. Right now these puppies are just incredible bundles of cuteness, but along with that comes a lot of responsibility and work. They have just been started on housetraining, but puppies cannot be left alone all day in a kennel, so this will be a work in progress for their new families over the next several months. The family must have a plan in place for potty training if they are gone for extended hours daily. Please be ready for the time and responsibilities of owning and caring for a puppy if you are considering applying for one of Miley's puppies. If you are interested in adopting, please submit an adoption application and once approved, you may come and meet the puppies and choose which one you feel would be the best fit for your family. Interested in adopting this pet? Please click the adoption info link for more information. And then click on the "Online Application" link at the bottom of that page. Over the years, we have always kept breeding stock that was structurally correct and naturally muscular with a great personality. Our females are medium size when compared to Labs. They hold their body condition on a limited amount of food and have maintained the great personality. The stud males are very strong, correct dogs that will walk up to any stranger and lick them in the face after a couple pats on the head. All adult breeding dogs must hunt, retrieve and track a downed bird with no formal training. But along the way something unpredictable happened: we fell in love with too many of the puppies. We had to stop raising puppies because our kennel was full and we did not have time to market the pups. Our hunting guests kept asking: where did we get those beautiful Labs, what is story with the spotted female, and where can I find one? So, after many requests, we started a breeding program in .View More About Us Our Adults and Working Dogs While we'd like to tell you the spotted female was a carefully planned creation, truth be known, she just showed up one day in a litter along with 10 black puppies. She is a beautiful female that hunts, points and retrieves with great energy. She has had three litters of pups; these dogs are scattered across the US, are loved by all that have them and are a constant source of high praise by their owners see the accompanying letters of praise. Though we have 12 adult dogs in the kennel, we limit breeding stock to five adult females and three proven stud dogs. Our goals are to offer more spotted puppies; though rare, we should be able to offer more in the future. We now have three young spotted prospects that we selected from two spring litters. If they pass the hunting tests, this fall they will be added to our breeding line. View Our Current Litters Questions? We are very blessed with the dogs we have in our care. By upholding high standards in our breeding program, it is our wish that others may enjoy the great qualities and uniqueness of these Hybrid Dogs for years to come. Should you want to reserve one of our pups or started dogs, please fill out our contact form and which puppy you are inquiring about. Though it takes a lot to say his name, the German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix is actually one of the more popular hybrid dogs. This dog is a crossbreed, which means he is the offspring of two different parent breeds. Also known as a hybrid, mixed breed or designer dog, the German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix has been growing in popularity ever since crossbreeding dogs became a popular trend nearly two decades ago. That said, there is some controversy surrounding crossbreed dogs, but to understand this controversy, we must first take a look at the origin of the German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix. Keep reading. The German Shorthaired Pointer The German Shorthaired Pointer is an impressive and well-rounded hunting dog hailing from Germany, as his name suggests. This dog is a Jack of all trades, excelling at hunting and retrieving both in water and on land. He also has a stellar nose for prey and an incredible prey drive. Best of all, the German Shorthaired Pointer is incredibly smart. The Labrador Retriever Like the German Shorthaired Pointer, the Labrador Retriever is another versatile hunting dog known for hunting and retrieving both on land and in water. Today, the Labrador Retriever is a family favorite who is also employed as a versatile working dog. He performs work as a search and rescue dog, a therapy dog, a service dog, and sometimes even a police dog. Over the last two decades, crossbreeding has exploded in popularity, resulting in a number of designer dogs like the Labradoodle, the Maltipoo , the Goldendoodle and more. And while hybrid dogs are quite popular these days, they are still somewhat controversial. This is especially true when considering newer generation crossbreed dogs like the German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix. One of the most important things to consider when considering a mixed breed is that there are many traits that will be considered unpredictable. This includes traits like temperament, appearance and even health. A dog like the German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix can be susceptible to any and all traits of his parent breeds. He may also be more like one parent over the other, or be a good mix of both. While this can be nerve wracking for those who like to know exactly what they are getting into when it comes to a dog or a particular breed, there are some pros of going with a crossbreed dog. One of the biggest bonuses is perhaps considering health and the idea of hybrid vigor. It is widely accepted that purebred dogs have been heavily overbred, leading to an uptick in genetic health issues over recent years. A mixed breed dog results in a widened gene pool, which can lessen the chance of certain hybrids developing genetic health issues. The German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix is an incredible combination of two highly intelligent and energetic dogs. Separately, the German Shorthaired Pointer and the Labrador Retriever are already known for their high levels of energy. In fact, it is said that both Labs and German Shorthaired Pointers can be especially puppylike and somewhat difficult well into their first few years. This will likely be the case with their hybrid offspring, so any owner should prepare for a very high energy dog that is also quite clever. He will do best in homes with owners who have a good understanding of working breeds and who appreciate a dog that requires a job to do. Many owners of German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix dogs find that their dogs are excellent helpers around the house. Some have been trained to take out the trash, sort the laundry or even load the dishwasher. German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix dogs are also very people oriented. They love their families and make great watchdogs. They are very playful and enjoy children, though they could be overwhelming for toddler aged youngsters. Because the German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix comes from two parents with hunting backgrounds, it should come as no surprise that this dog will have a high prey drive. He may not do well with smaller pets like cats, rodents, guinea pigs, or birds. However, he will enjoy other dogs so long as he has been properly socialized. Training and socialization is key for all dogs, but ensuring your German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix is properly trained and socialized can make the difference between whether or not your dog is manageable. Remember, this is a dog that can be quite energetic and even hyper, especially in his earlier years. The good news is that the German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix is incredibly intelligent and work oriented. He will enjoy learning from you and will be quick to respond, especially when training is kept light, fun and game-like. It could also damage the bond between the two of you. To properly socialize your dog, try and ensure he is introduced early on to many new experiences, and do your best to make sure these first impressions are positive for him. A German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix that is properly socialized and trained at an early age typically is a much happier, healthy and well rounded dog in the long run. A German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix that is not properly exercised is going to be very problematic indeed. These dogs are incredibly high energy and require plenty of activity to keep both their bodies and their minds engaged. Without proper exercise or mental stimulation , a German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix can develop serious behavioral issues and may be prone to destructive behaviors, especially if left alone too long during the day without plenty to do. Because of his background coming from two water dogs, the German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix will likely enjoy swimming if he is introduced to the water correctly. This is great news for any active family who enjoys spending time on the water. German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix dogs can get plenty of their exercise needs met swimming, but they will also enjoy at least two walks a day, jogs, good hikes, trips to the dog park, and plenty of playtime in a large, securely fenced backyard. We should remind you that the German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix dog is a hunting dog at heart, and he has a very high prey drive. This could spell disaster if you attempt to walk your dog off of leash outside of a fenced in yard, as he could easily get away from you and end up in a dangerous situation. When walking your German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix, be sure to walk him on a properly fitted leash and harness. German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix dogs may also be prone to pulling on walks due to their high level of energy. Instead of investing in a choke chain or prong collar, we recommend looking into no pull dog harnesses. These types of harnesses have been proven to work more effectively than aversive training equipment, and they are also much safer for the dog. This harness works in a few ways to reduce pulling without harming your dog in the process. This harness will also guide your dog gently back to you if he does pull ahead. Along with ensuring you are properly exercising your German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix and ensuring he is walking on the right equipment, we also remind you to invest in his mental health. The German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix is a highly intelligent dog who is very work oriented, and he will not be happy if he is left without a job to do. Along with teaching him new tricks and cues as well as offering him jobs to do around the house, we also suggest investing in a few different types of puzzle toys that you can pull out when you are away. Nina Ottosson Puzzle Toy.

Life Span Did You Know? Should a Chinese Crested Hairless Mix take after their Chinese Crested parent, they will be a small dog with a lively, energetic, and affectionate personality. Chinese Crested Dogs are true companion breeds that are ultra-affectionate and love nothing more than spending time with their favorite humans. They are known for being alert and lively dogs that in tune with their families and also for moving with elegance and grace. These little dogs tend to get along with just about everyone, but they will definitely prefer being with the person they bond with the most. As long as they are properly socialized and trained, they do well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They tend to take some time to warm up to strangers, but are back to their open and affectionate selves once they do. If a Chinese Crested Mix takes after their Chinese Crested parent, you can expect similar traits in them. The other parent breed could introduce some quirks of their own that could affect temperament, so you do want to ask about them. You can also meet the mother in person to see what her temperament is like, what behavior she is modeling for puppies, and what manners she is teaching them. The breeder should have started socialization and training. But, 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, well-behaved dog. The Chinese Crested is a moderately adaptable dog breed. Although they do well in almost any living situation, they are very sensitive to the cold and hate being left alone for long periods of time. If the other parent breed is similar, you could expect similar adaptability in a Chinese Crested Mix. You still want to make sure you ask about them as they could introduce their own set of traits that could affect adaptability. Because a mix can inherit issues common to one, neither, or both of the parent breeds, responsible breeding practices are essential. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Chinese Crested include primary lens luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, and glaucoma. As a small dog breed, they can also be prone to luxating patella. Epilepsy and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease are less common in the breed, but can occur. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing issues to puppies even with a non-established mix. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Chinese Cresteds love to spend time with their owners, receive affection from them, and are eager to please. They are highly trainable and a good fit for owners of all experience levels as long as training is patient, consistent, and focused on praise and positive reward. Because these dogs are so sensitive, they are highly affectionate and in tune with their owners. This also means they do not do well with harsh reprimands, words, or negative actions. Harshness or negativity tends to damage the bond and often results in a Chinese Crested that is not willing to learn from you or listen to you. If the other parent breed is also a highly trainable dog breed, you can expect something similar from a Chinese Crested Mix. The other parent breed could also make a Chinese Crested Mix potentially more difficult to train. Regardless, puppy training classes can be a great resource for every owner. A mixed-breed dog can inherit a coat similar to one of their parents or one that is truly a mix of both. Should a Chinese Crested Hairless Mix be just like a hairless Chinese Crested, you may not need to worry about shedding, but you will need to do some maintenance. Because their skin is exposed, these dogs are sunburned easily and prone to allergies and skin irritations. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually frequent enough to keep nails from growing too long. Weekly ear checks and careful cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs and is usually due to a lack of good dental care throughout their lives. As a small dog breed, a Chinese Crested Hairless Mix is prone to developing dental disease later in life, which makes good dental care even more important. Daily brushing or use of an enzyme toothpaste is ideal. Although Chinese Cresteds are athletic dogs and can be competitive in dog sports, they tend to sit in a lower activity range. Daily walks and some playtime are usually enough for them. The other parent breed could result in a Chinese Crested Hairless Mix that is about the same or higher energy. If they are a high-energy dog breed, you will need to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog in a Chinese Crested Mix. Fully-grown Chinese Cresteds usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on size, especially if they are the mother. Although it is not a guarantee, you can meet the mother in person to get an idea of what size to expect in a fully-grown Chinese Crested Mix. A Chinese Crested Dog generally lives for years. Although the other parent breed could affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span in a Chinese Crested Mix. Chinese Crested Dogs come in hairless and coated varieties. And, the two varieties can even show up in the same litter! Currently, we do not have any Chinese Crested Hairless Mix puppies available, but we can alert you when new Chinese Crested Hairless Mix puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address! Related Breeds. Dental Problems Many tiny dog breeds have trouble with their teeth, and the Chinese Crested is no exception. This dog is known to have dental issues such as early tooth loss and gum disease. While some issues such as PLL can sometimes be surgically corrected, others such as PRA are untreatable and lead to total vision loss. Deafness Some Chinese Crested puppies are born deaf. While deaf dogs can certainly live full and happy lives, pet parents must make special arrangements, such as training them with hand signals , to keep them safe. Orthopedic Issues Patellar luxation is a common health concern found in Chinese Cresteds. It occurs when the kneecap slips out of place. This can cause your dog to skip or walk with a bunny-hopping gait. Some mild cases of patellar luxation do not need treatment, while others can be managed with anti-inflammatory medications and nutritional supplements that support joint health. In severe cases, surgery may be recommended. Treatment can include medications and supplements to reduce pain and inflammation, physical therapy, and surgery. Skin Problems Hairless areas of skin require special protection from the sun and cold temperature. Even with an extra level of skin care, Chinese Cresteds can develop dry skin, comedones blocked pores , and other skin problems. When in doubt, ask your vet for recommendations on what to feed your Crested. Chinese Crested puppies, however, require more frequent meals to support their growth and development—about three or four small daily feedings. The amount of food to give your Chinese Cresteds varies based on her age, weight, activity level, health, and the brand of dog food. Nutritional Tips for Chinese Cresteds A well-balanced and nutritious diet will meet the nutritional needs of Chinese Cresteds. Do not give your dog supplements unless your vet recommends them. That said, socializing your Chinese Crested puppy early and consistently is important for her to be comfortable in new situations. Chinese Crested Behavior The Chinese Crested is a dog with some rather cat-like quirks—according to the breed club, the breed is known to perch on the back of couches, much like felines do. Chinese Crested Training As with all dog breeds, Chinese Crested puppies need early socialization and exposure to new animals, people, and situations. The breed club recommends enrolling your puppy in the AKC S. Puppy Program. Always use positive reinforcement when training your Chinese Crested. Fun Activities for Chinese Cresteds. Prevalence: So-so A toy dog, the Chinese crested is fine-boned, elegant and graceful. Happy and alert, these dogs make loving companions. They range in weight from five to 12 pounds two to five kilograms and stand from nine to 13 inches at the shoulder. Two distinct varieties can be born in the same litter: hairless — hair on the head, tail and feet only and powder puff — completely covered with hair. A single dominant gene causes the hairless feature; dogs with two copies of the hairless gene do not survive the embryonic stage. This is why both varieties are needed for the breed to survive. The hairless variety has hair on certain portions of the body: the head called a crest , the tail called a plume , and the feet from the toes to the front pasterns and rear hock joints called socks. The texture of all the hair is soft and silky, flowing to any length. Placement of hair is not as important as overall type. Areas that have hair usually taper off slightly. Wherever the body is hairless, the skin is soft and smooth. The head crest begins at the stop forehead in people and tapers off between the base of the skull and the back of the neck. Hair on the ears and face is permitted on the hairless and may be trimmed for neatness in both varieties. As in most hairless breeds, hairless individuals tend to have crooked or missing teeth. The powder puff variety is completely covered with a double soft and silky coat. Close examination reveals long thin guard hairs over the short silky undercoat. The coat is straight and of moderate density and length. Any color or combination of colors is acceptable. Grooming is minimal. Personality: A lively and loving dog, this toy breed can quickly capture the hearts of its guardians and become quite spoiled- The Chinese crested has a lifespan of 12 to 13 years. Living With: An affectionate companion, the Chinese crested is a lively and loving dog. He makes a perfect lap heater, since the lack of body hair increases the amount of heat his body gives off. But he does need to be protected from extremes of temperature, both hot and cold. Even though the hairless variety appears maintenance free, this is not so. Aside from regular nail clipping, regular grooming is required to keep both varieties looking well. The hairless variety requires frequent bathing to maintain healthy skin. You may need to remove unwanted hair to keep the look you want. Many cresteds have natural facial hair and some have excess body hair. The skin can sunburn from prolonged exposure. It can also develop blackheads. The powder puff requires frequent grooming to maintain a silky, flowing coat. History: There is actually no documented proof that that Chinese crested originated in China. One of several hairless breeds in the world, they may have evolved from hairless dogs that have appeared in pariah dog litters as a result of mutations. The similarities between the Chinese crested and hairless South American dogs suggests that these breeds might be distantly related. Descriptions of this breed are found in records as early as the late s. The Chinese crested enjoyed a temporary popularity in the late s and early s in the United States, then again became popular in the s. The breed's most well-known promoter was Gypsy Rose Lee. AKC recognition came in .Related Pet Care Articles. Dog domestic dog The Chinese Crested Dog is a hairless breed of dog. Like most hairless dog breeds, the Chinese Crested Dog comes in two varieties, without hair and with hair, which can be born in the same litter: the hairless and the powderpuff. Description[ edit ] The coated variety is called "Powderpuff", and is a recognized type The Chinese Crested is considered a small breed, weighing on average 10—13 lb 4. The height is 11 to 13 inches cm. The breed is fine-boned, with almond-shaped eyes and large, erect ears. There is no color standard for the breed. The Hairless has soft, humanlike skin, as well as tufts of hair on its paws "socks" and tail "plume" and long, flowing hair on its head "crest". In addition to being an incomplete dominant gene, the "hairless" gene has a prenatal lethal effect when homozygous. All hairless Chinese Crested Dogs are therefore heterozygous. The hairless variety can vary in amount of body hair. Hair on the muzzle, known as a beard, is not uncommon. A true hairless often does not have as much furnishings hair on the head, tail, and paws. The difference between a very hairy hairless and a powderpuff is that the hairless has a single coat with hairless parts on the body, while the powderpuff has a thick double coat. The skin of the hairless comes in a variety of colors, ranging from a pale flesh to black. Hairless Chinese Crested Dogs often lack a full set of premolar teeth, but this is not considered a fault. Both hairless and powderpuff varieties can appear in the same litter. The look of the powderpuff varies according to how it is groomed. When its hair is completely grown out on its face, it strongly resembles a terrier ; however, the powderpuff is usually shaved around the snout as a standard cut. The powderpuff Chinese Crested Dog is an elegant and graceful dog who makes a loving companion, playful and entertaining. The powderpuff's coat is long and silky soft. The amount of body hair on the Hairless variety varies quite extensively, from the true hairless which has very little or no body hair and furnishings, to what is called a "hairy hairless" dog, which, if left ungroomed, often grows a near-full coat of hair. These hairy hairless dogs are not a mix between powderpuffs and hairless Chinese Crested Dogs, but are merely a result of a weaker expression of the variable hairless gene. The mutation responsible for the hairless trait was identified in .The powderpuff is entirely covered with a double, very soft, straight coat. Although a powderpuff's coat does not continuously grow, it can grow to be quite long at full length; a weekly bath and frequent brushing typically helps to prevent matting. For an optimal coat, it is recommended not to brush the dog's coat when dry or dirty, as a light spray of water or grooming spray to their coat is recommended before brushing. Many choose to shave their powderpuff in a "pony cut" leaving long hair on the bottom of legs, tail, head and crest for an easy care coat. Powderpuffs are very clean and have no odor. The breed has "little to no shedding ". Hypoallergenic or oil-free moisturizing cream can keep the skin from becoming too dry when applied every other day or after bathing. Burning can occur in regions that are subject to strong UV radiation, especially in lighter-skinned dogs. Many owners apply baby sunscreen to their pets before spending time in strong sun. Some Chinese Crested Dogs have skin allergies to lanolin. The Chinese Crested Dog is further distinguished by its hare foot having more elongated toes , as opposed to the cat foot common to most other dogs. Because of this, the quicks of Cresteds run deeper into their nails, so care must be taken not to trim the nails too short to avoid pain and bleeding. Powderpuffs enjoy getting outdoors for daily exercise, although they are not a high energy breed. Being a very intelligent breed, this dog does well in obedience type sports. Consistency is a must; however, this breed can be relatively sensitive and should have a gentle trainer. The powderpuff is great at learning and performing tricks. Health[ edit ] A Hairless Chinese Crested Dog participating in an agility competition The powderpuff is not affected by many of the congenital diseases found in other toy breeds. They are, however, prone to some of these conditions listed. The powderpuff should have full dentition, not missing or crooked teeth, as is accepted in the hairless variety. Hairless varieties of the Cresteds can be prone to poor dentition. Most dogs of the Powderpuff variety have few, if any, dental defects. Eye problems are a concern within the breed, which has a higher incidence of primary lens luxation PLL than most other breeds. For PLL and one of the forms of PRA, a genetic test can be performed to determine if a dog is a 'carrier', 'clear', or 'affected'. Since the test can only reveal the existence of affected or carrier status of one form of PRA, breeders and owners of the breed should still have regular eye exams by veterinary ophthalmologists. This is a progressive movement disorder that begins with cerebellar ataxia between 10 and 14 weeks of age. After 6 months of age, affected dogs develop difficulty initiating movements and fall frequently. The gene responsible has been mapped to canine chromosome 1. This inheritable condition is caused by shallow knee joints stifles and results in kneecaps that pop out of place. Onset is often at a young age, and can cause temporary to permanent lameness based on the severity. Breeders should have their stock certified free of patellar luxation. Many countries' kennel clubs maintain a centralised registry for health results. Some food allergies can also cause skin breakouts, like excess blackheads, pimples and dryness. It has been observed that this breed has an allergy to chicken and many owners opt for a chicken free diet or a homemade one. The severity of these ailments, which can lead to the premature death of the dog, means this is something breeders need to take seriously in order to avoid it becoming a problem for the breed. History[ edit ] Although hairless dogs have been found in many places in the world, it is unlikely that the origins of the modern Chinese Crested Dog are in China. British, French, and Portuguese explorers likewise found the breed in various parts of Africa and Asia during the s and s. These two lines are the true foundation of every Chinese Crested Dog alive today. Zygotes that receive two copies of the Hairless allele will never develop into puppies. Thus, all Chinese Crested Dogs carry at least one copy of the powderpuff allele. The powderpuff trait cannot be bred out because it is carried by all Chinese Crested Dogs even the hairless ones. All hairless Chinese Crested Dogs have the ability to produce powderpuff puppies, even when they are bred to another hairless. On the other hand, a powderpuff bred to another powderpuff can never produce hairless puppies, since they do not carry the hairless gene. He was the winner of the World's Ugliest Dog Contest from to ; he died before he could compete in .Other Chinese Crested Dogs, either purebreds or mixes, have finished high in the event as well. Chi Chi dog Origins The Chihuahua The Chihuahua is one of the world's most popular and easily recognizable dog breeds due to its small stature and larger-than-life personality. Chihuahuas are a lively, courageous breed with a feisty attitude to match. Despite their tiny size, they can be fiercely protective of their loved ones and show remarkable loyalty in return. These loyal little dogs do have some big needs when it comes to attention and pampering, so they're great for people who have the time to devote to them. The Chinese Crested The Chinese Crested dog is a unique breed most distinguished by its unique appearance. Most notably, Chinese Cresteds have signature tufts of fur on their head and tail, along with a colorful array of coats ranging from spotted to solid-colored. Beyond their unique fur pattern, these dogs are known for being gentle, loving companions and have even earned the nickname "velcro dogs" for their tendency to happily stick by the side of their owners. The Chi Chi dog In the late s or early s, some designer breeders decided to create a new type of hybrid dog by crossbreeding Chihuahuas with Chinese Crested dogs. It was an experiment gone right; they successfully blended together the fun-loving personality of Chihuahuas and the smooth, hairless texture of Chinese Crested dogs. The Chihuahua Chinese Crested is not recognized by the A. Chi Chi dog Appearance Chinese Crested Chihuahua mixes typically weigh anywhere from 4 to 11 pounds, and stand anywhere between 5 to 12 inches at the shoulder. The Chi Chi dog is an unusual-looking pup that incorporates many of the characteristics of both parents. Its body shape is similar to a Chihuahua - small and round with short legs - but its head features more of a ridge that's characteristic of Chinese Cresteds. Its coat can be a combination of fur, hairless, or both! You may even find dark spots dotting its body like a Dalmatian or spots all over in soft colors. Their outgoing nature makes them a perfect match for those who enjoy having company! Overall, this mix breed tends to be laid-back and calm, but they have their moments of energetic bursts of playfulness. However, their predominantly Chihuahua genetics might not always agree with their newfound furry companions; Chi Chi dogs prefer to be the alphas of their pack, instead of mingling with other animals. Despite this stubborn tenaciousness, Chi Chis can eventually learn to live peacefully with other pets if given enough time and patience. Most Chihuahua and Chinese Crested mixes tend to have short hair and classic Chihuahua coats which drastically lessen fur accumulation around the home. While there may still be some light shedding, these mixed breeds are generally considered low shedding compared to other breeds with denser and longer hair. Chinese Crested Chihuahua mixes are not hypoallergenic. While Chi Chi dogs may inherit some of their physical and behavioral traits from their parent breeds, they also inherit the same health issues. Patellar Luxation This condition is characterized by a dislocation of the knee joint, which can be painful depending on its severity. Treatment options vary from pain-management techniques like physical therapy up to more serious surgeries that may be needed if the issue persists. Luckily, there are several methods of prevention available to keep your Chihuahua Chinese Crested mix comfortable. Hip Dysplasia This painful joint disorder does not have to be the end for your Chinese Crested Chihuahua mix! One great way to help your canine companion cope with this condition is regular exercise. Going on short walks can help reduce their symptoms and increase mobility. It's important to keep an eye on them while they're outside, however, as extreme exercise could possibly worsen their issues. Additionally, make sure to provide them with a comfortable spot to rest away from slippery floors and high steps! Glaucoma Glaucoma basically means increased pressure within the eye, and if it's not caught early enough, this pressure can cause damage to the optic nerve and blindness. If you own a Chinese Crested Chihuahua mix, regular visits to your vet are essential in order to spot any signs of glaucoma and allow them to treat it promptly before it causes too much harm. First, brush the coat weekly to minimize hair shedding and keep it clean. Bathing should only be done once a month as bathing too often can damage the coat. To prevent matting, use a specially formulated detangling spray or conditioner during brushing and styling. Additionally, pay attention to any underlying issues such as mange, mites, or allergies that may require more frequent grooming sessions. Finally, it's important to know that these mixes are very sensitive around their eyes and muzzle - take extra care when combing and brushing these areas to avoid irritation! Training Chihuahua Chinese Crested mixes are a unique, special breed that requires careful training right from the get-go. If a Chi Chi goes without proper training, they might develop separation anxiety, making them difficult to handle. To avoid this problem, start training early and make sure to provide consistency and understanding during teaching sessions. Teaching commands in an inviting atmosphere with plenty of treats readily available can help create a better bond between you and your Chihuahua Chinese Crested mix, while also increasing the likelihood of successfully teaching their desired behaviors. 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 Chinese Crested Overview The Chinese Crested is an exotic-looking small dog who does not actually hail from China. Both variants can be found in a single litter. Regardless of variation, the Crested is a slender, finely boned dog who is elegant and graceful. Expect yours to sleep under the covers with you. Contrary to popular opinion, the Hairless does not need to wear sun block, moisturizing lotion, or any other substance applied to the skin at any time; often that just causes problems. The skin has a better chance of staying healthy if nothing is put on it. Cresteds do need to be bathed regularly , however, every one or two weeks. The body hair must be kept shaved to keep the skin healthy. Some are prone to a canine equivalent of acne, however. The Hairless Crested is incredibly, unbelievably tolerant of heat. He can lie in degree sun for hours, like a lounge lizard, with no problems. He rarely pants and drinks very little water, which is pretty disconcerting for experienced dog owners who leave lots of water out. Conversely, he has absolutely no tolerance for cold. Cold will kill this dog a lot faster than heat will. Take a cautious approach to vaccinations, cortisone drugs, and topical applications with this dog. Rabies shots often trigger reactions. Some Cresteds can have a terrible reaction to medications, including topical flea preventives. Cresteds are wonderful family dogs who love to be with the people in their lives. They do well with children, although you should consider the age of the children and how they interact with dogs before bringing this small creature into your heart and home. The Chinese Crested is a wonderful family dog who is playful, affectionate, and endearing. They do well in apartments and any other type of dwelling. Chinese Cresteds are adept at jumping, digging , and climbing. They are Houdini Hounds who can escape from virtually any enclosure. They are more stubborn than you are. Their athletic abilities are why many Chinese Cresteds are taking the conformation, obedience, and agility worlds by storm. Chinese traders once used the Chinese Crested as ratters on their ships, and they may have served this function in agricultural settings as well. Today they enjoy life as beloved family pets, but they also have the personality to excel at being more than just pampered pooches. Chinese Crested Highlights Small and portable. Chinese Cresteds are small dogs, typically weighing between 5 and 12 pounds and standing 11 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder. This makes them easy to transport and care for, even in small apartments or homes. Affectionate and playful. Chinese Cresteds are known for their affectionate and playful personalities. They love to cuddle and play with their owners, and they make great companions for people of all ages. Chinese Cresteds are relatively low-maintenance dogs. They do not require a lot of exercise, and their grooming needs are minimal. Two coat varieties. There are two coat varieties of Chinese Crested dogs: hairless and powderpuff. Hairless Chinese Cresteds are completely hairless, except for tufts of hair on the head, tail, and ankles. Powderpuff Chinese Crested dogs have a soft, silky coat. Chinese Cresteds are considered to be hypoallergenic dogs, which means that they are less likely to cause allergies in people with allergies to dogs. Good with children. Chinese Cresteds are generally good with children. They are patient and gentle, and they make great playmates. Easy to train. Chinese Cresteds are relatively easy to train with patience and positive reinforcement. They are intelligent dogs and can learn a variety of commands. Overall, Chinese Crested dogs are great pets for people of all ages. They are small, affectionate, playful, and low-maintenance. If you are looking for a dog that will bring you years of joy, the Chinese Crested may be the perfect breed for you. They evolved from African or Mexican no one is certain which hairless dogs who were reduced in size by the Chinese. The Crested is believed to have accompanied Chinese sailors on the high seas as early as , hunting vermin during and between times of plague today they can still be found in port cities worldwide. By the middle of the 19th century, Cresteds began to appear in numerous European paintings and prints. The Chinese bred the dog for its excellent ratting abilities aboard their ships, and sailors traded them at different ports. Documentation by Europeans of a hairless dog who closely resembled the Chinese Crested appears as early as the s, when European travelers visited Chinese seaports and boarded Chinese trading vessels. The Chinese apparently viewed the Chinese Crested as having magical healing powers; they also used them as living heating pads. They were kept by Chinese emperors as well as by sailors. In China, the breed has become rare. Chinese Crested Size The average height for a Chinese Crested is between 11 to 13 inches for both sexes. They generally weigh up to 12 pounds. Chinese Crested Personality Alert and happy, the Crested adores and dotes on his people. Expect kisses and lots of snuggle time in your lap from this happy, loving little dog. He makes an excellent companion and is extremely intelligent. The Crested is not a good breed for insensitive trainers. The Chinese Crested can be stubborn. Intensely social, he bonds tightly to his immediate pack. Really friendly Cresteds are the exception rather than the rule, as most are naturally suspicious of strangers. Some also like to howl or sing. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training, and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Meeting siblings or other relatives of the parents is also helpful for evaluating what a puppy will be like when he grows up. Socialization helps ensure that your Crested puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling him in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking him to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help him polish his social skills. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Dental Issues: These tend to crop up due to a genetic link that exists between dominant hairlessness and missing teeth. The Hairless Crested has small, peglike teeth that can slope toward the front of the mouth and cause problems; the Powderpuff has normal toy breed dentition. The Hairless often lose many teeth by the tender age of two or three. Some Hairless require canned food, while others eat kibble with no problem, as does the Powderpuff. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA : This is a family of eye diseases that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina. Early in the disease, affected dogs become night-blind; they lose sight during the day as the disease progresses. Many affected dogs adapt well to their limited or lost vision, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease: This condition involves the hip joint. If your Crested has Legg-Perthes, the blood supply to the head of the femur the large rear leg bone is decreased, and the head of the femur that connects to the pelvis begins to disintegrate. The first symptoms, limping and atrophy of the leg muscle, usually occur when puppies are four to six months old. Surgery can correct the condition, usually resulting in a pain-free puppy. The eye becomes dry and the membranes are left with only oil and mucus. The symptoms can be mistaken for conjunctivitis, which also has a gooey yellow discharge. Diagnosis is done with a Schirmer Tear Test. Treatment usually consists of eyedrops and ointment. Chinese Crested Care A Chinese Crested needs only minimal exercise — he is not a good jogging companion — but mental stimulation is important. There are many toys and puzzles designed for dogs on the market, and he can enjoy many of them. Chinese Cresteds are generally easy to train but they have a stubborn streak, which means you need patience. Positive reinforcement is the only route, and correction needs to be handled sensitively, because the breed can be naturally timid. Socialization is necessary, so if possible find a place that offers separate small-dog puppy classes, so your Crested can socialize with similarly sized dogs. He could be injured while playing with a larger puppy. A crate is also a place where he can retreat for a nap. Crate training at a young age will help your Crested accept confinement if he ever needs to be boarded or hospitalized. Never stick your Chinese Crested in a crate all day long, however. Crate training is also helpful for housetraining , which can be one difficult area of training for the Chinese Crested as a group, toy breeds can be tough to housetrain — but it will all click into place eventually. Note: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your Crested in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Crested, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Chinese Crested Coat Color And Grooming Powderpuff coats are seen in all colors and in combinations of mahogany, blue, lavender, or copper. They can be solid or spotted. The skin tones of the Hairless are pink and black. The Hairless Chinese Crested is bald except for soft, flowing hair on the head, feet, and tail. Hair on the body should be shaved to protect the skin. The Hairless should be bathed frequently with a high-quality shampoo. Because he can be prone to minor skin problems, such as acne, check for any blackheads while grooming. Powderpuff Cresteds are a lot of work to groom. Shaving the face is an option. The Powderpuff needs to be brushed weekly , except when the puppy hair is changing into adult hair, during which brushing is best done on a daily basis. A pin or bristle brush is best. Powderpuffs should be bathed regularly but not as frequently as the Hairless, and they need a high-quality shampoo to avoid stripping necessary oils from the hair and skin. The dog should be towelled off and blow-dried on a very low temperature to prevent him from getting chilled or his coat from getting over dried. Start grooming your Crested at a young age. Grooming allows you the opportunity to bond with your puppy as well as check for any signs of illness that your dog may be showing. Make grooming a positive experience and you will find that veterinary checkups and grooming sessions when the dog has reached maturity will be easy and enjoyable tasks. Both varieties can have dental issues, but the Hairless is particularly prone. Brush his teeth at least two or three times a week to remove tartar buildup and the bacteria that lurk inside it. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding — and your dog may not cooperate the next time he sees the nail clippers come out. His ears should be checked weekly for redness or a bad odor, which can indicate an infection. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Children need to be old enough to understand that they must be careful with these small dogs. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Cresteds love other pets and are playful with them. Chinese Crested Rescue Groups Chinese Cresteds are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Chinese Cresteds in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed.

What Is a Sable German Shepherd? Many people ask about mostly black and reds and do not have too much information on the Sable color German Shepherd Sable German Shepherd is known as the classic German Shepherd, a true German Shepherd color. The sable German Shepherd has always been acknowledged as the quintessential dog because it has a DNA similar to that of a wolf. It also has the dominant gene in the German Shepherd family. The sable is the only color that matches the dog perceived as the first Shepherd dog. The dog can be red or tan with black tips or have black hair over its entire body. Sable German Shepherds are known as one of the smartest family dogs ever. Not just their Sable coat color makes them stand out, but they look adorable and charming as well. Their color is similar to that of a wolf, which helps people to identify them in one go. You can easily see a Sable German Shepherd in the streets of America. After quite a thorough research about this dog breed, we could see that a significant reason for their similar appearance to a wolf is their genetic similarity. Often accompanying police and other officials who do protective work, the DDR German Shepherd is an agile, athletic, and able dog that is willing to go the distance for his owner. Fiercely devoted, highly courageous, and extremely intelligent, the DDR German Shepherd makes an excellent pet for folks looking for a loyal, loving, and protective companion. DDR German Shepherd are best suited for experienced owners. This dog would not fair well with a novice owner. Moreover, if you do not have the time to invest in sufficient training, socializing, and exercising this breed, the DDR German Shepherd is not the right pooch for you. With breeding regulations being more lenient worldwide, it is possible for you to end up with a dog with different and diluted characteristics to the original line. Puppies sold by bad breeders, including puppy mills and backyard breeders, can be brimming with behavioral and health problems. The new bloodline would be able to withstand frigid winter temperatures and excel in military and police work. Many dogs were even abandoned or put down. Some dogs were sold to breed-type enthusiasts to preserve the bloodline. This makes him great for search and rescue missions. DDR German Shepherds can withstand all types of weather conditions and easily traverse most types of terrain, helping them effortlessly locate people who are trapped in rubble after a disaster. If you properly socialize your dog from a young age, he will be a protective and playful playmate for your tots. A highly intelligent dog, the DDR German Shepherd can easily learn basic commands and complicated tricks. Reward-based training methods word best for this breed. Always offer your pet high-value treats and plenty of praise when he does what you ask of him. The Sable German shepherd got its name because sable is its dominant coat color. The main difference between german shepherds and sables is this distinctive coat color difference. Regular german shepherds are more tan and light brown across their bodies. Sables have lighter roots with dark black tips that resemble wolf-like colors. What Are Sable German Shepherds? Sable is a term that is used to describe the color of some German Shepherds. Sable is a color that is commonly used to describe dog breeds but it is used within the art world as well. This means the color of the root of the fur or the fur closer to the body is lighter compared to the end of the fur which is typically black. Most Sable German Shepherds will have a light brown or gray fur at the roots of the fur and then the fur will transition to a black color at the tips of the fur. This term has become popular when describing the color of different dog breeds. Von Stephanitz moved on to breed Horand, fixing his traits and appearance. As the war approached, Von Stephanitz classified Horand as a service dog — and succeeded. Sable German Shepherds Temperament There is no significant difference between a regular german shepherd and a sable shepherd except its coat. German shepherds are loyal, independent, and playful dogs, ideal for patient owners willing to spend the time and energy. German shepherds need to be mentally and physically stimulated to have a long and healthy life — which is why they are widely used as service dogs. If the sable is left alone for too long, they can become quite aggressive out of boredom and frustration. However, shepherds are not naturally aggressive dogs. Dysplasia is a malformation in the joints and is very painful for like-breeds. To prevent hip and elbow dysplasia, ensure your sable gets enough exercise and nutrition throughout its life. After seven years, sables may begin to show symptoms of myelopathy, a degenerative spinal disease. Sable German shepherds are prone to these diseases mainly based on early inbreeding practices. The life expectancy in a healthy Sable German shepherd is a little over ten years old. Exercise Requirements The Sable German shepherd is a high-energy dog, so at least two hours of daily exercise is needed for this breed. Pups cannot run for extended periods until they reach about seven months old. German shepherds are herding animals, so allow them to engage in herding activities such as piling their toys in one area, herding balls, and moving items. Sables are excellent climbers and swimmers, so ensure lots of hikes and lakes are in your near future if you own a German shepherd. The shepherd is a dog that needs lots of space for physical and mental stimulation. Trainability and Intelligence Sables are reward-oriented dogs, so training is at a relatively easy level as long as you know how to train. The Sable German shepherd is perfect for owners who want to learn dog training. The sable will learn fastest and easiest by enforcing positive attitudes, patience, and lots of bonding as they can also be picky with who they choose their master. It is imperative to have them undergo socialization training early on so that there are fewer misunderstandings. They are temperamental, but their intelligence is remarkable and endearing. Food and Nutrition Requirements Large dog breeds need approximately calories a day to stay fit and healthy. As a puppy, your sable shepherd needs to be fed little meals three to four times a day until it reaches adulthood. As an adult, aim to feed your shepherd at least two times a day of high-quality dry kibble. Frequently Asked Questions About Sable German Shepherds Many questions stem from owning a Sable German shepherd, and many owners question whether they should adopt one. Here are some common questions people ask about sables. Their high-energy, playful attitude and easy-training behavior will make any family feel at home. However, German shepherds need a commanding presence around them. How Common is the Sable German shepherd? Compared to other German shepherds, the Sable breed is rare, so a sable puppy is expensive. German shepherds are known for their herding behavior and ability to work and train hard. Due to the pack-leadership and confident characteristic, the Sable German can represent territorial and protective attitudes. Be sure that proper socialization and basic training take place right from puppyhood. Noticed by Von Stephanitz at a dog show is how the Sable German shepherd became known. Over time, the Sable German shepherd has become rare to spot compared to their classic counterparts, but they are not impossible to find. Overall, the German shepherd dog breed makes for fantastic family and house pets and even better-working animals to this day. More on Dog Knowledge:. Lifespan Sociability German Shepherds have long been the first choice as working and service dogs because they are highly devoted, loyal, and courageous animals. They are generally easy to train by experienced owners but need a firm hand and consistent routine to train successfully. While this is possible for novice owners, they will present more of a challenge than some other breeds. Before buying a German Shepherd, you need to take into consideration the massive responsibility of owning one of these animals. They are highly protective of their owners, which can lead to aggressive and territorial behavior at times, and they have a powerful prey drive. These dogs were bred for and have long been a working breed and do best with a specific job to do. It will take a great deal of time, patience, and dedication to look after a dog of this caliber, so you need to understand that a German Shepherd is not the kind of dog that can be left at home alone for long periods. This will quickly lead to destructive and even aggressive behavior. With the power and working history of this breed, good training and socialization are essential with owning a German Shepherd. They are one of the most popular breeds in the United States Behind only the family-friendly Labrador Retriever, the German Shepherd is the second most popular breed in the U. German Shepherds Go By Two Names Most dog owners know them simply as German Shepherds, but their name has changed over the years, and they are still referred to by different names in other countries. Many people confuse the two as different breeds, but they are the same animal. Sable, tan, and black color variations are among the most common and recognizable coats, but other recognized colors include black and red, black and cream, grey, and even blue. German Shepherds are known for being mildly aloof and independent dogs, and this is often mistaken for aggression or unpredictable behavior, but in truth, these dogs are rarely aggressive when trained properly. While they are reserved and aloof toward new faces and do not tend to make friends easily, once they get to know you, they are extremely friendly and loyal animals. They make great family dogs because they are loyal, gentle, and friendly with their owners. They are well known for being highly protective and powerful animals, making them ideal guard dogs, and they are typically only aggressive when provoked or protecting their family. They are supremely intelligent animals that can be trained to do almost any job, leading to their wide use in service and military applications. These dogs thrive off of having a specific job to do, especially with their owners, so they are happiest when close to their human family. Indeed, close companionship is a must with the breed, and they will not do well being left alone for extended periods. They will swiftly become bored and frustrated, and this can lead to destructive behavior and even aggression if left unchecked. If you are away from home frequently, the German Shepherd is not the breed for you. They are generally gentle and affectionate with children, although they may accidentally knock over small kids while playing. Of course, good training and socialization are essential for this powerful breed. Other dogs are not usually an issue, but they will need to be socialized early to get along with the family cat! Make sure that their food has an animal-based protein as the first listed ingredient and that the food is free from filler ingredients like wheat, corn, and soy. We recommend substituting this dry food with canned wet food or lean meats and organ meats to add variety and give an amino acid and protein boost. Large breeds like the German Shepherd Sable are prone to joint issues, so you need to be careful of overfeeding them. Avoid giving them too many treats or table scraps, and give them a diet rich in healthy oils to aid their joint health. This includes agility sports and training, as well as puzzle toys and games. These large dogs will need at least 1—2 hours of intensive exercise every day to prevent boredom and destructive behavior, although more is better. They are great companions if you are an outdoor enthusiast and will adore joining you on runs, hikes, and cycling. They have a natural love for water and will enjoy an occasional swim too. One point to keep in mind is to be careful about over-exercising German Shepherds as puppies. While these dogs are active and agile, during the first year, they are rapidly growing, and too much exercise can be harmful to their skeletal development and may cause joint issues later. While they can be aloof and independently-minded at times, making training difficult for novice owners, they typically love the process, and training this breed is usually relatively easy. They should be trained from a young age, preferably from the day that you bring them home, as this will mitigate any bad habit formation that may potentially occur. Positive reinforcement training methods are highly recommended for this powerful breed, as too much harsh scolding or reprimands may lead to an unresponsive dog at best or aggressive behavior at worst. This method uses praise and rewards for a job well done, and this promotes good behavior in the future rather than punishment for bad behavior. Socialization is an often-overlooked aspect of training but is vital to the success of properly training your dog. Socialization with other dogs from an early age will lead to less distraction while in public places, and your Shepherd will be far more likely to follow commands with other dogs around. Also, we recommend engaging in training sessions after a short exercise session, as your pooch will be less distracted, more attentive, and thus, more likely to learn. Even with daily brushing, there is no way around having a ton of hair around your home, so you may need to invest in a pet vacuum cleaner before bringing one of these pooches home! That said, brushing your Shepherd a minimum of two or three times a week will help a great deal, especially when they are shedding heavily. This will remove any dead hair and keep their coat smooth and healthy. Avoid using human soaps or shampoos, as this can strip their coats of natural oils; stick to water or special pet shampoos. Other than that, they need a toenail trimming once a month or so, depending on their activity levels, and regular teeth brushing will stop any tartar build-up and potential dental issues. Soft, safe chew toys and high-quality kibble can also help keep their teeth plaque-free, but you should still brush their teeth regularly. Most responsible breeders will make sure your dog is free from most of the genetic problems that can affect these dogs before selling them, but of course, there is no real definitive way to avoid some of these issues. Being such a large breed, German Shepherds are prone to joint issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as a progressive degeneration of the spinal cord called degenerative myelopathy. This disease may eventually progress to the point where your dog has trouble walking due to the lameness in their back legs, and unfortunately, most of the time, there is no treatment. Gastric dilatation-volvulus, commonly known as bloat or gastric torsion, is another condition to keep an eye out for. This is common in large breeds with deep chests like the German Shepherd. The condition is caused by dogs eating large meals too quickly, causing a build-up of gas in the stomach, which then twists, cutting off blood flow. The condition is treatable but frequently results in death, as there is not much time to get to the vet. Minor Conditions. Although these dogs look different to other German Shepherds GSD , they carry the same traits and characteristics as other variations of the German Shepherd breed and are known to be very loyal. These dogs are bred to produce the perfect working dog and German Shepherd dogs have gone on to have careers in the military, the police force and as other service dogs. They were first discovered by Von Stephanitz who spotted the German Shepherd at a dog show and decided that this breed was the perfect standard for a working dog. Horand was the first breed standard for the German Shepherd breed and was bred alongside dogs with a similar appearance to give German Shepherd litters. They are thought to have first appeared in the United States in and were recognized by the AKC in .Sable German Shepherds are, however, often more rare than other colors of German Shepherds, which can make them more expensive as puppies. The litter size for these pups will normally be 5 and 9 puppies. These dogs have a domed shape head with a long, square muzzle. They have erect ears and long necks, which sit low when running or prowling. They are a very strong breed and often are said to resemble their wolf ancestors. Coat German Shepherds will have one of two coats, either a medium coat or long coat. They are both double coats, having a more dense guard layer with a softer undercoat which helps to keep them warm when they are out as working dogs. These dogs are known to shed so they may not be the doggie for those with allergies. However, a proper grooming regime, which we will go into more detail about below, is important to reduce the amount of shedding and the amount of cleaning up! Color The sable color of the German Shepherd means that almost all their hairs will have a black tip to them, while the rest of the hair can be a different color. Normally this other color is tan, but there are a range of colors that the GSD can come in. These include white, parti, blue, liver, red and gold. They are extremely loyal and very family orientated. Because they are a working dog, they will believe that their job is to protect you as a family and are known for being alert and watchful, sometimes barking if they feel like they are in danger. Although socialization is important for a dog at any age, proper socialization for a German Shepherd will ensure they can interact with the family properly. Socialization is also important around young people. These dogs are very playful and active and love to be outside getting physical exercise. They also need a lot of mental stimulation as they are very intelligent and do not like to be left alone. If they are left alone for long periods of time they can become bored and begin to exhibit destructive behaviors, so it is important they spend most of their time with people or they are trained correctly to understand what behaviors are desirable. Lifespan The Sable German Shepherd has an average life expectancy of between 9 to 13 years. Many of the problems they are more likely to develop are the same problems that other breeds of German Shepherd deal with. The most common health problem for the German Shepherd dog breed is elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. Dysplasia is a condition that is seen in many large dogs and is a disease of a malformation of the joints. The joints can become very painful and may worsen over time causing lameness. The best way to ensure your pup is less prone to any of these conditions is to buy from a reputable breeder and to ensure you get health clearances from both parents. You should also check your dog often for any signs of these issues and take them to the vet regularly for checkups. Daily Life Now we know all about the traits and characteristics of the Sable German Shepherd, it is time to take a look at what living with one of these dogs on a day to day basis is really like. We will cover their food and diet, their exercise requirements and their grooming needs. It is recommended that you feed them a diet specially formulated for large dog breeds and you should always check the back of the dog food packet to see how much food you should be feeding your doggie based on their weight. Experts recommend that a Sable German Shepherd should be eating 20 calories per lb of body weight a day, which may come to around calories. This is around 3 cups of food. As a puppy, they should be fed three to four times a day. This is particularly important in the larger breeds as they are most predisposed to bloat, where the stomach becomes bloated and twisted and is usually fatal. These three to four meals can then be decreased to two meals a day as an adult. However, if you have a busy lifestyle then this can just be one meal a day. Their food should be healthy and nutritious. It should cover all the nutrients that a dog of this size needs, including proteins, fats and carbohydrates. High-quality dry kibble is a great option, although some dog owners opt to feed their pup raw food. Take a look at the food we recommend below. Contact Us for litters and reservations for litters. The success of Vom Banach K9 dogs out in the world, and the happiness of Vom Banach K9 owners, is due in part to the effort we make to ensure that you have the absolute right puppy for your situation, whatever it is. We literally spend hundreds of hours with our puppies from the moment they are born in our home until the time they are ready to leave for their new home with you. Whether you seek a devoted family pet, or a prospect for SAR, detection, Shutzhund, Police K9, competitive obedience and agility, or nose work, we will help select the right puppy for you. An important part of the process is speaking to you to learn about you and the dog that will best meet your needs and expectations. In advance of that conversation, please fill out the form below and click on Submit when completed. Thanks very much. Vom Banach K9 German Shepherd puppies are happy, healthy, well-socialized and confident. Our German Shepherd puppies are known for their loyalty, affection, eagerness to please, work ethic, and rich dark black sable, sable, and solid black coats. Shipping by air is fast, safe, convenient, and cost-effective. We use only airlines that have demonstrated a solemn commitment to animal travel over the last 26 years. Vom Banach K9 uses only certified airline-approved crates. For information on our current litters please Contact Us. Your browser does not support the video tag. Sep 27, Jul 8, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Are you looking for a dog with all the amazing characteristics of a German shepherd, but you also want something a bit different and special? If so, then why not consider a sable German shepherd? The sable German shepherd is not a crossbreed dog but rather a recognized variation within the breed, so the dog retains all the benefits of a purebred pup. German shepherds are one of the most popular purebred dog breeds in the United States, in part thanks to their intelligence, trainability, and intense loyalty. They are also well-loved for their sleek, noble appearance. Interestingly, sable is actually the original color of the German shepherd breed. It is the only variation of the German shepherd that has the same color as the founding member of the breed. Read on to learn everything you need to know about these attractive, intelligent, and hard-working dogs. Sable German Shepherd Appearance Sable German shepherds look just like most other German shepherd dogs, with the exception of their distinctively colored coat. The German shepherd is a large breed. You can expect the males to reach up to 26 inches tall and weigh between 75 and 95 pounds. The females are a bit smaller. Their heads are domed in shape with a long, square muzzle. They have alert, erect ears and long necks that make them seem even larger than they are. It is considered ideal for the dog to be longer than it is tall with a proportion of 10 to 8. Their bushy tail should extend out in a hook-like shape. German shepherds tend to dip their head low like a wolf when they are running or prowling, which contributes to the consensus that they look very much like the wolf ancestors of dogs. These dogs have double coats with a soft undercoat and a denser guard layer. The guard layer can be either medium or long, though the medium length is significantly more common. Most German shepherds are either tan and black or red and black. The lighter brown shade is usually their principal color, with a black face mask and black markings on their back which often look like a saddle. A variety of other color variations exist, including pure black, pure white, liver, silver, blue, panda, and, of course, sable. Sable basically means the dog has mostly lighter colored hair with a black tips, which can make the dog appear grey or mottled. In reality, the actual color combinations are more varied, and the sable pattern could be any mixture of tan, black, brown, or red. The term is mostly used in the United States. In other countries, such as Germany, these dogs are often just called grey. It has since become a popular working dog for roles such as search and rescue, police, and military due to its strength, trainability, and intelligence. The breed emerged from the s trend to try to standardize dog breeds to assist in certain jobs, such as herding sheep. Max von Stephanitz was a leading thinker in this area and was specifically looking for canine specimens that matched his ideal vision of a working dog. He found that ideal dog at a dog show in .He purchased the dog and named it Horand von Grafrath and founded the Society for German Shepherd Dogs to promote the breed and others like it. Horand, who was in fact a sable-colored German Shepherd, became the center point of a breeding program. Horand himself had 84 puppies, and extensive inbreeding was required to secure the characteristics of the breed. When the German Shepherd was imported to the United States in the early 20th century, it became popular with gangsters and bootleggers for its strength, intelligence, and intimidating appearance. It was also popular in Nazi Germany, and even Adolf Hitler loved the breed. As a result, it has gained a reputation for being a fierce, intimidating, and even dangerous breed. However, this says much more about how the dogs were used than the natural temperament of the dogs themselves. German Shepherd Temperament The color of a German shepherd makes no difference to its temperament, so you can expect a sable German shepherd to conform to the general temperament of the breed. German shepherd dogs are often described as active and self-assured. This, combined with their intelligence and eagerness to learn and please, makes them excellent working dogs. They are also highly obedient and loyal. Their extreme loyalty also extends to family situations. They will raise the alarm with their loud, deep bark if they sense danger. However, German shepherds are not naturally aggressive. This is a reputation that stems from the way that the dog has been used in the past. That said, German shepherds are often associated with severe dog bites. This is largely due to the popularity of the breed and the strength of their bite rather than any innate aggression; there are simply more of them around than many other dog breeds. Tests suggest that German Shepherds have a bite force of over 1, newtons, which is less than a Rottweiler but more than a pit bull. They tend to have a natural suspicion of strangers and like to chase smaller animals. Their intelligence and compliance means they can be trained not to display this behavior, but as an owner, you need to put in the work of training them properly and consistently. German shepherds are a very curious breed in addition to being highly intelligent, which is why they are well suited for search and rescue missions. German Shepherd Energy Level German shepherds are very playful and active dogs, so they need lots of physical exercise and mental stimulation in order to thrive. This is another reason why they often do well as working animals. Working gives them both the physical and mental stimulation to complete these challenging tasks. Pleasing their handlers is also attractive to these highly reward-oriented dogs. Ideally, German shepherds need at least 60 to 90 minutes of exercise every day, preferably spread over at least two different sessions. However, this should be slightly less when they are puppies. There is always a risk of over-exercising puppies, especially when it comes to large dog breeds. As a general rule, you should exercise a puppy daily for five minutes for every month of their age until they are an adult. German shepherds reach adulthood at around 18 months. So, for example, a six month old pup should be getting 30 minutes of exercise a day if we follow this rule, as six months times five minutes comes out to 30 minutes per day. What to know more about exercising your puppy? Read our article: How far can I walk my puppy? German shepherds will love to accompany you on adventures, such as hikes and walks, and they also love swimming. They will do well at the lake, on the beach, or even accompanying you on a boat. However, even though they are excellent swimmers, they should have a doggy life vest if you are out at sea. They will struggle in an apartment, and their large size can make navigating small apartments challenging even for these nimble dogs. Ideally, they should have a backyard where they can move around freely, especially when left at home alone. The intelligence of these dogs means they can get bored quickly. While puzzle toys, such as a Kong , can help on the occasions when you do need to leave them alone, they are likely to become stressed if they are left alone regularly. German Shepherd Health Risks German shepherds have a life expectancy of a little over 10 years. This is normal for dogs of their size, and larger dogs tend to have shorter lifespans than smaller breeds. You should not expect a sable German shepherd to be immune from these, especially since further inbreeding is often required to produce the sable color. It is common for these dogs to develop hip and elbow dysplasia , which is a developmental abnormality of the joints that can restrict movement and cause pain. This is often the result of different elements of the body growing at different speeds. The best way to prevent this is to ensure good nutrition and the right level of exercise during their crucial growing period. Even if the development of hip and elbow dysplasia does not affect the dog at a younger age, it can make them more susceptible to arthritis and other forms of joint pain when they are older. Older German shepherds often benefit from an orthopedic bed to take pressure off their joints. The breed also appears to be predisposed to degenerative myelopathy. This is a degenerative spinal cord disease that generally shows up in older dogs after about the age of seven years. If you are looking for one of these puppies specifically, you may need to go to a breeder. The sable color is relatively rare, and breeders have to control specifically for this kind of coat. As a result, you can expect to pay a bit more for a sable puppy than you would a German shepherd of any other more common colors. Are you thinking of adopting a sable German shepherd, or any German shepherd, into your family? Here are a few questions to ask yourself to determine if you and your home are a good fit for this breed. German shepherds are highly trainable and obedient, which means even first-time owners should be able to take on the challenge of training them. German shepherds need a commanding presence to keep them in check. The sad reality is that many people are also afraid of big dogs like these, and their behavior and response to them can cause serious problems. You need to feel confident to take control of your dog in charged situations. These dogs are also very active, so they will do best if they have a bit of outdoors to call their own that lets them run around a little, dig, and play. Just be sure your yard is properly and securely fenced in! German shepherds are very energetic dogs that need to be active a lot, which means you will need to be active frequently as well. As well as daily exercise, they will want to join you on weekend adventures rather than weekends on the couch catching up on Netflix. German shepherds need to spend a lot of time with their owners, as they need both companionship and intellectual stimulation. Thinking about getting a new puppy? Check out our new puppy checklist. Sable German shepherds have a coat with lighter roots and darker tips covering most of their body. The tips are usually black, which means the dog looks as though it has a greyish color. It is a natural color variation within the breed. How common are sable German shepherds? Sable German shepherds are significantly rare in comparison to the popular tan and black or red and black colors that dominate the breed. This is why a sable puppy will probably cost you more than other color variations. However, pure black German shepherds are a bit more rare. Are sable German shepherds bigger? No, sable German shepherds are not bigger than other German shepherds. The females should weigh between 55 and 75 pounds and the males 75 to 95 pounds. Look at the size of the parents to get a better feel for how big your pup is likely to get. Are German shepherds good family dogs? With the right training and socialization, German shepherds are excellent dogs for an active household. They will be loving, obedient, and protective. They are good around children, though small children should always be supervised around dogs, regardless of the breed and their level of familiarity. Accidents happen, even when children are around dogs they have grown up with and know well. What is bad about German shepherds? German shepherds tend to be suspicious of everyone, which can contribute to overly protective and territorial behavior. Proper socialization can help minimize this personality trait, but they will probably carry an element of this with them for their entire lives. The Verdict Sable German shepherds are not exotic crossbreeds but rather a rare color of the purebred German shepherd dog. They are actually the original color of the breed, matching its famous founding member. Sable-colored German shepherds are actually relatively rare, so they can be expensive to procure. However, aside from their unique color, they are just like other German shepherds, one of the most popular breeds in the United States. They are large and strong dogs with a lot of energy, which makes them well suited to hard work. They are also highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them ideal to train to complete complex tasks such as the roles of military and police dogs despite being originally bred as herders. Overall, sable German shepherds are: Rarer than just about any other color of German shepherd No different than other German shepherds as far as personality, temperament, etc. With the right training and socialization, they are very safe dogs. German shepherds are great dogs for active people who have a lot of time to spend with their pup and want a companion to join them on various active adventures. Do you have experience with sable German shepherd dogs? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Related Article:.