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Breeds The link has been copied! The German Shepherd has long been prized for its working ability. Police, military, search-and-rescue teams, and families alike have loved and used this intelligent and obedient dog for a variety of tasks. And the Border Collie is known as the smartest dog breed in the world. What happens when you put these two dogs together? Shollie Shepherd x Border Collie Main Characteristics As a cross between two intelligent working dogs, you can expect the Shollie to be a smart, energetic pup. These dogs are great for active families where they have space to run and receive adequate exercise each day. Their size can vary since German Shepherds tend to be larger than Border Collies. However, Shollies usually stand between 20 and 24 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 70 and 90 pounds. Both parent breeds come in a few different colors and Shollies can have quite a variety of color patterns. However, one thing is for sure. They will have a thick double coat that sheds twice a year — six months in the Spring and six months in the Fall. History of the Shollie The idea that crossbred dogs are inferior to purebred dogs has been waning in recent years. In fact, the popularity of designer dog breeds, the hybrid cross of two purebred dog breeds, has been spiking rapidly. One of the most well-known designer dog breeds is the Labradoodle. This Labrador Retriever Poodle mix set off the whole Doodle dog craze of crossing all sorts of dog breeds with Poodles to create more hypoallergenic versions of dogs. That and the fact that the crosses end up looking somewhat like adorable teddy bears have made these crossbred dogs extremely popular. It is unclear who decided that crossing a Border Collie with a German Shepherd would be a good idea or why. But the resulting hybrid has been making a splash in the dog community. What Does a Shollie Look Like? Border Collies are usually black and white and German Shepherds can come in a wide variety of colors though they are commonly black and brown. The Shollie can have black, brown, fawn, sable, or white hair and are almost always a mix of at least two colors. Many have an intriguing mottled pattern. Their bodies tend to be lean and athletic and they are fairly large dogs. Despite their size, they are gentle and loving and tend to be good with kids. Most Shollies have brown eyes, though they can also be hazel, blue, or amber. They usually have black noses with long muzzles. Exercise Needs Both parent breeds were bred as working dogs and needed energy and stamina for this purpose. This makes the Shollie an active dog that requires at least one hour of vigorous exercise per day. They will love having a large yard where they can run freely. If this is not available, access to an off-leash dog park would be ideal. As intelligent dogs, they love exploring new areas. They will adore accompanying you and your family on hiking adventures or participating in agility classes or other canine sports. Border Collies top the charts of Obedience and Working Intelligence. This measure looks at both how many repetitions the dog requires to learn a technique as well as how likely they are to obey a known technique. The higher their score, obviously the more trainable they are. German Shepherds are well known for their trainability. Though there is always some unpredictability with crossbred dogs, you can bet a child of these two breeds will be easy to train. Since both parent breeds are super intelligent with an eager-to-please attitude, the resulting hybrid ends up the same. But owning an intelligent dog comes with a responsibility. They need a job to do or some other form of mental stimulation. Otherwise, they will find something to entertain themselves in their boredom — which may spell disaster for your furniture! Luckily, they enjoy mental stimulation in various forms. Learning new tricks, participating in agility or canine sports, puzzle toys , playing with your kids, and even exploring areas of your large backyard count. If you have to leave them alone for a long period of time, leave them with a puzzle game or toy. This will help give them something to do and keep their mischievous streak at bay until your return. All in all, the Shollie is a fantastic dog when it comes to training and obedience. Are Shollies Independent? Some dogs are content to sit at home awaiting your return from a long day at work. The Shollie is not one of them. They are loving, sociable animals who will give you their whole heart. In exchange, they expect a certain amount of love and affection. It only makes sense, right? If you live alone and work outside the home all day, a Shollie may not be a good choice for your companion. They can become anxious or depressed and this will often come out as bad behavior like digging or chewing up shoes. On the flip side, Shollies are wonderful for families. They love playing with little children and will adore living in a household where there is almost always someone around to offer them an ear scratch. After a long day working or playing, they love nothing more than to cuddle with you on the couch or at least curl up at your feet while you relax in the evenings. They can get a little protective of their families especially their little people. If they feel threatened at all, they may display territorial behavior — even if that means protecting their little charges from Grandma! German Shepherd Surprisingly, there is one man and one dog to thank for the development of the German Shepherd breed. Max Emil Freidrich von Stephanitz dreamed of becoming a gentleman farmer. However, he was pressured by his affluent family into joining the military instead. During his time as a cavalry officer in the German countryside in the midth century, the incredible sheep herding dogs caught his eye. He was impressed by their intelligence and responsiveness and distressed by their dwindling numbers. As modernity approached, the need for sheepherding dogs was waning, but Von Stephanitz decided to do something about it. Thus, he bought a large estate near Grafath in Bavaria and set out to find the right dogs to create his formal breed. The right dog turned out to be one dog that he bought at a dog show in April of .The four-year-old dog, Hektor Linksrhein, had a wolf-like appearance and demonstrated superior intelligence and depth of character. Von Stephanitz renamed the dog Horand von Grafrath and used him to sire innumerable pups. Virtually every German Shepherd living today can be traced back to this dog. And von Stephanitz did things right. He bred carefully, looking to cultivate both beauty and brains in a time when they were mostly concerned with brains. His quest ultimately created a dog that is handsome, intelligent, obedient, and loyal. Not to mention both loving and easy to love. This medium-sized dog is descended from the old Roman sheepherding dogs and the Spitz-type herders of the Vikings. They routinely performed well in informal competitions among sheepherders back in the s. Eventually, official sheepdog competitions started running in the late s and early s. Border Collies have consistently dominated these competitions over the years. These dogs are energetic and capable of holding their own for over 50 miles in a day. Their rough, shaggy coats protected them from the elements when they spent days on end outdoors with their charges. Even the white markings on their coats serve the purpose of making it easier to spot them in the dark. As they grew in popularity, they began being exported from Great Britain all over the world to people who were looking for good working dogs. But in America, they caught the eye of obedience exhibitors. In , the North American Sheepdog Society was formed with the purpose to promote and protect the breed. Overall, the Border Collie has impressed generations of farmers with their smarts, energy, and willingness to please. Should I Get a Shollie? Now that you know a little bit about Shollies and their parent breeds, your interest may be piqued. However, as with every dog, they require the right type of home and living conditions to be happy. Here are a few things to ask yourself to help determine if your home is the right environment for a Shollie. Do You Have an Active Lifestyle? Shollies like to snuggle with you while you watch TV, but only after a long day of hard work or play. Remember, both parent breeds were developed as working dogs that needed enough energy to traverse dozens of miles in a day. Thus, Shollies require at least an hour of vigorous exercise each day. They need lots of active time and attention. Thus, a home with a large yard or a farm is a more adequate home for these pups. And they will love spending time with people who are active and on the move. The nice thing about adding a dog like this to the family is that they help encourage being active! Fi smart dog collars make it easier than ever. Shollies are very sociable, which means they want to spend time with their families. Are You Committed To Training? You still need to spend time with your Shollie teaching them what is expected of them and how they are to behave. But beyond the basics, you should continue to spend time training your Shollie. They love the mental stimulation of learning new tricks and they are so smart that they are the perfect dog for this. Do You Have Allergies or Asthma? This is a big one as Shollies have a lot of hair. If you or someone in your home has allergies or asthma, this could be a big problem. Both parent breeds have a double coat, which means there is a soft undercoat for warmth and a longer protective coat over the top. Translation — the dog has a lot of hair and they will constantly be shedding it. You can control their shedding somewhat with regular grooming sessions. But you will never get it all. Are Shollies Aggressive? Shollies are a little reticent of strangers. They love their families and can be a little protective if the occasion calls for it. However, they are not aggressive or violent by nature. The Verdict on Shollies So, is a Shollie right for your family? If you are an active family, have a large yard, and are willing to spend time training and stimulating your dog, the Shollie will make a fantastic companion for your family. If you live alone in a little apartment and spend most of your time at work, a different type of dog may be a better fit for your lifestyle. For additional pet-parenting tips, head over to TryFi. And don't forget to check out TryFi's innovative Fi Dog Collar , which offers GPS tracking, activity monitoring, and escape alerts to keep your furry friend safe. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Border Collies are the canine superstars of training. They are superior at obedience, agility, and herding. This especially bright workaholic enjoys being trained and kept occupied with activities. Working brings them happiness, but lack of work sparks unhappiness as well. They are eager to please and work hard. If you have enough time to devote to long obedience and agility training sessions, you are in for a firmly trained companion. Border Collies need a lot of exercise. Both breeds are strong and fast, so a Border Collie and German Shepherd mix will definitely be a strong and athletic pooch. No matter which breed traits dominate, any Shollie is a dog that loves and needs exercise. In cases when the Border Collie side of the crossbreed is more expressed, the owners will need to start putting their running sneakers on more often. Mental exercise is extremely important too so make sure you have enough mentally demanding tasks and games. Border Collies are affectionate dogs, perfect for families with children on the older side. Although relaxed among people they know, strangers can make them shy a bit. They are steady, confident, and courageous. The loyalty to their families makes them delightful protectors. Being overprotective of his family can make a German Shepherd dog a bit untrustworthy towards strangers. Photo by Vivienstock on Shutterstock Does that mean that a crossbreed afraid of strangers has more Collie Traits and the one barking at them is more of a GSD? Keep in mind that any dog can be a good dog. They can be a good fit for families with children and even with other pets. Leadership Border Collies require that you show interest in their training and give a lot of affirmation and encouragement. Keeping their attention is pretty easy if you have prepared a variety of training activities. German Shepherds start their training early in their lives. Work ethic? These guys are on point. A Shollie is a dog that needs a consistent leader to show him what to train and how to do it and reward him if he does that right. If that happens there is a great chance that checking your training regimen is the best place to start. Health The biggest health concern in German Shepherds is hip dysplasia. While GSDs from 50 years ago had a lot fewer issues with their hips, due to irresponsible breeding now every fifth dog has hip dysplasia. Obesity, over-exercise, and injuries can all contribute to hip problems, but the issue is an inherited one and sooner or later it will become clinically significant. Hip dysplasia is a common disease in Border Collies as well, but the main difference is that it develops in older dogs that had pretty active lives and their joints simply wore out. The photoreceptors in the eye start dying out and what starts as night blindness can result in complete blindness within 12 months of the onset of symptoms. German Shepherds are more susceptible to cancer than most other dog breeds. Most frequent neoplasia cases in GSDs include hemangiosarcomas, melanoma, lymphoma, and osteosarcomas. The condition makes the left side of the heart become overly loaded with blood and can ultimately lead to heart failure. Generally speaking, both breeds are pretty healthy. The diseases they are recognizable for are inherited. If there is a health certificate from their parents they are free from such diseases you can be at ease. The life expectancy for a Shellie is somewhere between 10 and 14 years. In both cases, the coat consists of an outer layer and a soft undercoat. The rough type is medium length and the smooth one is a short coat. Photo by Christin Lola on Shutterstock Their grooming requirements are pretty basic. Weekly brushing is enough to prevent matting and distribute the coat oils equally all over the body. German Shepherds are dogs with a medium-length coat with a softer inner layer and hard outer layer. Brushing them every days is enough to remove loose hairs. During shedding season they need to be brushed more frequently. So basically your Shollie is pretty low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Just a medium-coat that might need an extra brush once in a while. Size Expect your Shollie to be between inches cm with a weight of around pounds kg. Border Collie is a middle-sized dog breed. Adult males have inches cm height and females have inches cm. A full-grown dog of this breed weighs between pounds .German Shepherds fall under the medium to large-sized dogs category. The breed standard for adult males is inches cm and for females is inches cm. They can weigh somewhere between 50 pounds kg. Border Collie and German Shepherd mix dogs have higher chances of being middle-sized dogs, while some male individuals with more significant GSD anatomic trains can be considered a large breed. Cost Depending on your location, it may not be so easy to find a Shollie in your local shelter. These dogs are perfect for a house in the suburbs or the farming fields. Share your experiences with your Shollie in the comments down below! Disclaimer: This blog post does not substitute veterinary attention and does not intend to do so. I am not a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. If your dog shows any sign of illness, call your vet. Post navigation. Is The Shollie For You? The special thing about these dogs is their spectacular looks, more similar to a purebred than to a designer breed. They have aspects of a German Shepherd, with beautiful coats, large and athletic bodies, and expressive eyes. The only things that betray them are the less hairy tail and the floppy ears, both inherited from the Border Collie. Most of these dogs have a tan colored coat, but you can also find black and, in some rare cases, white Shollies. Of course, that thick, long coat will need regular brushing to avoid tangles and poor skin health. The German Shepherd is a highly active breed, developed for work and activity which means they require regular physical exercise. Thus, the combination of these two breeds results in an explosion of high energy! As an owner, you need to make sure your Shollie gets the activity and physical exercise she requires. Just take a look at these beautiful dogs and how they enjoy themselves playing: And the best way to do that would be to adapt an active lifestyle yourself no, this dog is not suitable for couch potatoes like you, Josh. While being playful, Shollies also do quite well on their own, so you can leave them alone at home for short intervals without worrying about them destroying furniture or getting too lonely. So, what activities can you give a Shepherd Collie mix to keep her happy and healthy? Something as simple as giving your dog some fresh air at regular intervals throughout the day should be more than enough to keep him satisfied. How often exactly? According to doctors of veterinary medicine like Amy Moore and Charlotte Cummings, a Shollie requires at least 2 walks every day or a minimum of 2 hours of activity on the daily. Both the German Shepherd and the Border Collie are known for their affectionate nature. A Shepherd Collie loves playing with her owners and will often eagerly await the next time you pick up the ball for a fun round of fetch. Despite being naturally loving and sweet towards their owners, however, the Shollie can manifest a wary side. How can you prevent this type of behavior in your Shollie? Exposing your pup to crowded, high activity environments early on. But it will make them more capable of controlling their impulses when a guest or visitor walks into your home. Police and military forces all over the world commonly use the aid of German Shepherds for a variety of tasks that would otherwise be impossible for people to perform! Sniffing out bombs, illegal substances, and other security threats are just some of the nifty tricks that German Shepherds can be taught. Border Collies, on the other hand, are known to be some of the smartest and most trainable dogs around. This breed quickly takes a number of tasks and jobs with simple repetition. With this type of lineage, you should know that the Shepherd Collie is just as smart. This dog breed loves mental exercise and will often look for something to stimulate her ever active mind. So as her owner, you should be ready with a few cognitive puzzles, games, and tasks that will help give your dog the mental exercise that she needs. For instance, before taking him out for your next walk, think about the place you plan to visit. Instead of going for the typical trail you always follow, consider other areas with more varied smells, sounds, and sights. Something as simple as exposing your dog to new sensory experiences can give them that well-deserved dose of cognitive training. What about dogs that are frequently left at home? As much as possible, I advise you bring your dog along with you when you run errands or go out because this can also give him a chance to stretch his mental muscles. Just hide the kibble in areas of your house where your dog is free to explore, and it will keep your Shollie thoroughly entertained for hours on end. So, how do you go about teaching your Collie Shepherd Mix to alert you in case of an intruder or threat? The first step would be to teach them to stop barking on command. Once your Collie Shepherd perfects this, you can then start teaching her when barking would be acceptable behavior by simulating an intruder or threat. Ultimately, what you want to teach your dog is the ability to discern between harmless guests and potential intruders by showing them the way that threats would behave. So your Shollie should know not to bark or alert you in these instances. Watch this video for more advanced tactics on stopping people aggression in dogs. Some dogs are more predisposed to certain health problems just because of their build and lineage. Responsibly bred Shepherd Collie Mixes will live up to 15 years of healthy life with little to no incidences of disease or illness! Of course, the parent breeds do have their own health problem predispositions that can be passed on to the mix. For instance, German Shepherds are notoriously prone to hip dysplasia. Border Collies, on the other hand, are known to be commonly afflicted with epilepsy. What a Shollie really needs is an owner who can keep up with their high energy, their wit, and their affectionate nature. About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. To create this hybrid, the parents must be one purebred Border Collie and one purebred German Shepherd. Both of these breeds are certified by the American Kennel Club so breeders should be able to provide paperwork for both parents. This energetic, intelligent, loving breed is becoming very popular with people who want a solid working dog or a loyal companion. As they are crossbreed, the characteristics they inherit from each parent will be different in each puppy. The overall appearance of this breed tends to lean more towards the German Shepherd parent. With their muscular large bodies, they are often mistaken for purebred German Shepherds. Their floppy ears and Collie tail will give them away as crossbreeds. Although a Shepherd is their most common appearance, each puppy will inevitably be different in appearance. No matter how they look, these dogs will have strong muscles and high levels of stamina, great for herding cattle. Fully grown, they should be around 21 to 27 inches tall and weigh around 70 to 80 lbs. If they lean more towards the Collie parent, they may be shorter and weigh less as Collies generally only weigh around 40 lbs. Colors Their coat will probably be a solid tan color with black patching and points. Coat They will have a straight, dense, medium-length coat, as both parents do. If they take after their German Shepherd parent, it will be a double coat. This means that it will be noticeably thicker especially in the winter months. If they are working dogs, this double coat will be great for working in cold weather. The best way to make an educated guess about their temperament is to look at their parent breeds. Highly energetic and extremely intelligent, these dogs are very eager to learn. Despite this, German Shepherds are not naturally aggressive and are actually very loving dogs that are loyal to their families. It is true that this loyalty can lead to them being protective and so they will often bark at anything strange in their territory. Border Collie Temperament A Collie was also bred as a herding dog and is one of the most common dogs used by farmers in the United Kingdom to manage their flocks and herds. Like GSDs, Collies are also energetic and very intelligent; ranked number one across all dog breeds. The downside is that they always need something to do otherwise they get bored very quickly. They are more playful than the German Shepherd but may have more issues with separation anxiety. With both these breeds in mind, we can definitely say that this hybrid is well above average in energy and intelligence. They make fantastic working dogs as this provides them with a job to do and plenty to keep their mind active. They will want to be with someone most of the time. Leaving an energetic and intelligent dog alone is a recipe for destructive behaviour such as chewing on furniture and barking. If you do just want this dog as a companion animal, be prepared for lots of exercise, playtime, and training sessions. These dogs can be protective so plenty of socialization from an early age will help. Lots of different people coming in and out of their space is very important. This will reduce the likelihood of them becoming defensive to new people. If they are the only dog in the house, be sure to socialize them with lots of other dogs to prevent guarding behavior over you and your family. Both parent breeds are comfortable around other animals, especially livestock or cats. They can live happily with other dogs and having a doggy friend may help keep them entertained. This mix is a great family dog as long as it was socialized with its family from a young age and not left alone with young children. All family members should be consistent with training to prevent the dog from receiving mixed messages and diluting the effect of training. As with all dogs, it would be unwise to leave young children alone with them. This breed is usually a food-focused dog which makes it easy to train with treats. Some mixes may also respond to toy-focused training which would be great if your dog is going to be a working dog or even train in agility or obedience. They will require a lot of socialization with people to reduce any guarding behaviors and aloofness. Naturally, this breed is not an aggressive breed but it is always good to socialize a puppy with other puppies to teach them canine manners. The Border Collie Shepherd Mix should be easy and enjoyable to train because they are so intelligent. If they are companion animals, you should definitely look into interactive feeders, plenty of toys for chewing and other games. For games which will stimulate your mix, fetch will be an important one. They need exercising for at least two hours a day, time in the garden, playtime, and other forms of mental stimulation. If they are working dogs they may get most of this on the job but as a companion animals, they will need this provided in other forms. Grooming should be completed a minimum of two times a week; especially if they have a double coat from their Shepherd parent. They should also have all the normal care that a dog requires: Ears cleaned Claws cut Treatment for fleas and worms Checked for ticks especially if they are out in fields or long grass on a regular basis Someone best suited to owning this breed is either at home most of the day or works with this dog. These mixed breed dogs are a very high-energy hybrid. This means a fenced-in backyard is a must so they can go out when they please and work off some energy. These dogs are not suited to living in apartments or houses without gardens. If they are working as a herding dogs, they will be able to run off a lot of that energy doing their job. If they are a guard dog or companion animal, they will need to be out of the house exercising for at least two hours a day. You should walk your dog a minimum of twice a day for at least one hour each time. These dogs are great off-leash as they are highly intelligent and should master recall pretty quickly. It means they can run off steam while running circles around you. Agility classes are also an excellent way of burning off steam and excellent as a form of mental stimulation, especially for this breed as they have a great body type for agility work. Grooming and Shedding If your dog does have a double coat, you can expect seasonal shedding. This is where they shed loads of fur twice a year in the Spring and Fall to make room for the new coat growth. Even if the coat is not double, these dogs will still shed quite a bit throughout the year and so will need brushing a minimum of twice a week. With lots of treats and positive reinforcement, grooming should be a good bonding time for you and your pup. You should take your dog to be professionally groomed a few times a year, especially around shedding season if they have that double coat. This will help prevent matting and keep their coat super healthy. Feeding and Diet The Border Collie German Shepherd Mix, when fully grown, should be fed one and a half cups of good quality dry food twice a day. This can also have wet food mixed in with it. Good quality dry food will have a very high percentage of protein. Things to avoid in dry dog food are any type of food dye, rendered fats, and corn or wheat gluten. People with working dogs often swear by a raw food diet. This is where the diet is made up of unprocessed meats, bones, fruit and vegetables, some dairy, and eggs. Known Health Problems All dogs are prone to certain health conditions and age-related issues. With little planning ahead you could get reimbursed for every vet bill from now on! Other names for these dogs include Border Collie Shepherd mix and a Shollie. The mix breed will usually be athletic and agile, extremely intelligent and quick to learn commands, while displaying a protective and watchful nature. German Shepherd The breed were designed to be a working dog with an athletic physique and noble character. Some of their personality traits include loyal, confident and courageous. The German Shepherd is the second most popular breed in the United States. They need a lot of mental and physical stimulation to ensure these clever dogs behave. How big do German Shepherd Collie Mixes get? To get an idea of the size, we need to look at both the Border Collie and the German Shepherd. German Shepherds can be between 22 and 26 inches in height and 50 and 90 pounds in weight. Border Collies can range between 18 and 22 inches in height and 30 to 55 pounds in weight. So the size range for a German Shepherd Collie mix is between 18 and 26 inches in height and 30 and 90 pounds in weight. What do German Shepherd Collie Mix look like? A German Shepherd Collie Mix can have a variety of different colors. Having said that, the most common shade tends to be solid tan with patches of black. German Shepherds are usually black and tan but Border Collies have a variety of possible coat colors. Therefore, a Shollie could have any combination of black, sable, white, brown and fawn. They should be almond-shaped. Their nose will be black and their ears should be large and triangular in shape. So you can expect a German Shepherd Collie Mix to be a willing learning and eager to please their pet parents. We can say with some degree of certainty that a German Shepherd Collie Mix will be quite loyal to their dogs owners given this is a quality associated with both parents. Giving both breeds are members of the Herding Group, they could be prone to herding small children or other small pets. This is a trait that is associated with the Border Collie. While German Shepherd Collies are loyal and protective, you should never leave one of these dogs alone with a child. The same could be said for any breed of dog no matter how tall or small. These hybrid dogs have a playful nature which they can often get from their Border Collie parent. They should be sociable with other people and other pets. As a general rule, they should learn new commands within five repetitions and obey a first command 90 per cent of the time or better. They require a lot of exercise — regular walks or runs with their dog owner, trips to the dog park, games or playtime in the back yard, as well as mental stimulation. As the saying goes, a tired dog is a happy dog. They need around 12 miles of exercise every week. Are German Shepherd Collie Mix hypoallergenic? Do German Shepherd Collie Mix shed? A Shollie is usually a high shedding dog that will require brushing every day to maintain the health and quality of their coat. By doing so, pet parents will remove dead hair as well as debris. A German Shepherd Collie Mix will blow out its coat twice a year, which will be a challenging time for a dog owners with dog hair all over the home. How long does a German Shepherd Collie Mix live? German Shepherds can live between seven and 10 years. Border Collies have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. We can deduce that a German Shepherd Collie mix will have an average lifespan of around 10 to 12 years. German Shepherd Collie Mix health problems Mix breeds are generally considered healthier dogs that purebreds. However, some hybrid breeds can still be susceptible to some health problems. The price can vary between each breeder, who may value certain traits above others. Other potential costs include dog food, pet insurance, grooming, vet trips and much more. Applies to all dog food recalls in the U. Adopting an older dog will decrease the price tag. Lancaster Puppies in Columbus, OH. Owners will have a lot on their hands when grooming this hybrid dog. It is a heavy shedder, making it hard for owners to clean up while trying to keep their coat healthy. The German Shepherd Border Collie mix sheds more often as it grows old, so owners must brush its fur daily to remove dander and dead hair. Here are some of the most recommended grooming equipment to maintain the coat of the German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie: Slicker Brush Slicker brushes are great combs to remove tangles and mats on long-haired dogs. The slicker brush can save owners time when brushing the coat of the German Shepherd Border Collie compared to regular combs. Detanglers Before using a slicker brush, owners will notice that the Border Collie German Shepherd mix has a lot of tangled hair. Dematting sprays can relax and soften the hair to make it easier for owners to untangle the knots. Owners must resort to this solution if the tangles are hard to remove despite the use of detanglers as dogs are not fond of sharp objects. Owners must avoid buying shampoo based on the odor or the low price. Owners must be aware of its coat type and skin to help them find oils and specialty ingredients that will be beneficial for the Border Collie mixed with German Shepherd. Grooming Wipes The German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie is an energetic dog that will be dirty when it finishes playing outside the house. Wet wipes are essential for dog owners that want to prevent mud and grass inside their residence. Microfiber Towel Human towels do not absorb all of the water on a dog. Because of its heavy coat, the German Shepherd Border Collie mix will likely be dripping wet despite a heavy rinsing. Microfiber towels can help remove water on a Border Collie German Shepherd cross better than human towels. The legs and hips of Border Collie German Shepherd will deteriorate as it ages. The hybrid dog will experience problems at an earlier rate depending on its activities as well. It may also be born deaf if one of its parent breeds already have hearing problems. Epilepsy The Border Collie breed is widely known for its tendency to suffer from epilepsy more than other dog breeds. The Border Collie German Shepherd mix may inherit this health problem as well. Epilepsy happens when the dog is experiencing episodic seizures. Fortunately, it is a rare disease among dogs. Degenerative Myelopathy When owners notice that the Border Collie German Shepherd mix is starting to walk funny on its back legs, it can be a symptom of Degenerative Myelopathy. This disease currently has no cure. Irresponsible breeders are the most likely reasons for the health issues of a German Shepherd mixed with a Border Collie. Owners must make sure that they are adopting a healthy puppy from a reputable breeder to avoid dealing with a sickly puppy. If the hybrid dog is exhausted from more training than usual, owners can go for 4 cups a day. Bloat and diabetes are two main health problems that can affect a Border Collie crossed with a German Shepherd as both parent breeds may also suffer from them. It is essential for owners to avoid overfeeding this hybrid dog and prevent nutritional imbalances. In such scenarios, products such as Nutra Thrive dog food supplement can be a solution to regain the proper balance of nutrients. Dog owners and lovers must also keep in mind that they need to seek food for the best large breed dry dog food instead of best dry dog food for small dogs. Whatever you do, make sure you steer clear from the worst dry dog food. Try to learn more about the difference between poor-quality and premium-quality chows by checking our best dry dog food guide! The dog food must include joint supplements because large dog breeds are prone to hip dysplasia and other joint ailments. To avoid this, give them kibble that is rich in calcium since puppyhood. Pooches that have entered their golden years will maintain their health properly only if given the right amount of the best senior dry dog food! Dog food must also contain a moderate amount of calories to avoid obesity, which is a common problem among large breeds. The dog food chosen by owners must also have large kibble to avoid letting the dog eat too quickly, which may result in life-threatening conditions like bloat. Here are a few of the most recommended large breed dog food in the US: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula The Blue Buffalo Life dog food is perfect for the German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie because it is full of ingredients rich in antioxidants like kelp, blueberries, sweet potatoes, and carrots. Deboned chicken is also its main ingredient. This brand does not have wheat, soy, or corn. Wellness Core Dog Food The nutritious proteins included in the Wellness Complete Health dog food for large breeds is beneficial for the German Shepherd crossed with Border Collie because it has all the nutrition it needs. This brand contains deboned chicken, salmon meal, and deboned whitefish, which gives the dog food a delicious flavor. It also includes flaxseed, which is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. It also provides for different probiotics for the German Shepherd Border Collie mix. Dog for Dog contains vitamins and minerals to give your Border Collie mixed with German Shepherd the nutrition it needs. This whole-grain brand also contains glucosamine, which helps keep joints healthy. Owners on a budget will find this product affordable. It also helps prevent nutrient deficiency with its vitamins and minerals. The brand also comes with glucosamine and chondroitin, which is good for joint health. Eagle Pack Natural consists only of natural ingredients with no artificial colors and preservatives. It also includes eight probiotic strains to keep the hybrid dog healthy. Pro Plan Focus Weight Management Large Breed This brand is beneficial for large dogs because it can supply them with many complex carbohydrates to sustain their energy levels. It is also helpful for the joint because of it contains glucosamine. This brand attacks specific health issues like joint problems or bloating that a German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie may cross. This brand contains joint supplements, probiotic supplements, and fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants. It is a natural and grain-free product with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It contains antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits, as well as premium proteins. This brand is a grain-free product that will give your hybrid dog enough nutrition for its daily activities and exercises. There are a plethora of good choices for them out there, but make sure to find some of the best dry dog food , for example, Wellness Core Dog Food , Dog For Dog Food , or Nutra Thrive dog food supplement. Puppies and senior dogs have different food requirements, so go through the best puppy food brands in case you own a little munchkin and best senior dry dog food for grandpa and grandma pups. A checkup with your vet will help you opt for some of these. Both of its parent breeds are also very active. This hybrid dog does not do well indoors and needs to have a lot of time running and playing with its owners. An owner of a German Shepherd crossed with Border Collie must commit their time to engage this dog in activities if they want to avoid it from becoming bored and destructive. This dog will become aggressive and timid if it does not participate in mental and physical activities. Its daily exercise requires about 60 minutes of running and playing outside of the house. If you happen to raise a Border Collie German Shepherd mix as a calm and independent dog, 2 hours of separate walks daily can keep it satisfied. This guide is dedicated to all the owners of this outstanding breed! They have a thick double coat that helps them adapt to cold climates and will be the perfect guard dog for a family with a fenced-in backyard. They are energetic dogs so they should have long walks every day. They love water so be sure to take them along next time you go for a dip in the pool or at the beach! The German shepherd is a very intelligent and obedient breed. The Border collie on the other hand is known to be one of the most intelligent dog breeds as well as easy to train and quite skilled in herding. They were first mixed in the s and have been a favorite ever since. Physical appearance: color, size, coat length The German Shepherd Border Collie Mix has long legs that allow it to sprint at great speeds just like its parents! It usually weighs somewhere around 70 pounds. They can vary in height depending on what height each parent was at full maturity which varies by breed. Males should be larger than females though! As for coloration, it may vary, but both parents and many of their ancestors tend to be black and tan or sable which is a yellowish brown color in color. The fur also tends to vary from short and smooth, similar to the German Shepherds, to longer and wavy like the Border Collies. However, it is not uncommon for these dogs to have medium-length fur as well! Special traits: Some traits of this breed are very similar to both of their parents. They are intelligent, active, athletic, friendly, loyal, and protective just to name a few. It will also have some unique characteristics that are particular to itself alone. They will always retain their herding instincts but may or may not be good herders in your home! You can train them easily with lots of patience and encouragement. They are certainly not on the small side so would certainly deter any unwelcome person from entering your home without permission! Dogs are extremely agile and have very sharp senses. This mix is very athletic and loves to run around. They need a constant supply of high-quality nutrients to ensure their proper growth and development as puppies and throughout their lives. It is important that the diet you choose for your dog supplies him with the right balance of all necessary nutrients, including proteins, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. In general, you will find that most good quality commercial dog foods provide just that — especially those aimed at working breeds such as GSDs and BCs. As is true for all living creatures which depend on other organisms plants or animals for nourishment, food provides the basic ingredients required by the body cells to carry ing out the necessary functions. This type of mix breed has a thick double coat, but it also sheds. Shedding may not seem like a big deal, but these dogs are perpetual shedders which means their shedding persists throughout the year. The downside to this is that you will have to brush your dog regularly in order to manage the constant shedding. Generally, double-coat breeds require brushing two times per week, while single-coat breeds only need to be brushed once a week at most. It has an intense drive to work with people, and in addition to having the boldness of the German shepherd, this dog is equally curious and exploratory. This means that they are hardworking, will try to herd your children if they become too boisterous, and need plenty of exercises to keep them out of mischief. They are more than willing to please their owners, so if you want an obedient dog that will follow your commands easily then this may well be the breed for you. If you are looking for a medium-sized dog that will protect your home as well as make great company, then this is definitely one breed that might suit you perfectly! This breed is a healthy one although some diseases are common for this breed. Make sure to always check out if the parents of your dog are free from these problems. It is very important because if both parents have good hips but you get offspring with bad hips you will never know when they will start developing issues with their joints which is very painful in our opinion. So it is better to be safe than sorry. This mix inherits the majority of its traits from both breeds. Herding dogs tend to have hip problems more than most other types of dogs so that may be something to look out for. However, they rarely inherit epilepsy or eye problems which are common in German Shepherds and Collies. It can lead to arthritis of the hip joints, which is very painful for the dog. If your dog suffers from dysplasia, there are many things you can do to help him cope with it. This includes pain medication, regular exercise, weight control, and sometimes even surgery. It is most common in large breed dogs with deep chests, such as the German Shepherd Border Collie mix. Again, treatment includes pain medication, regular exercise, and weight control for your dog. The condition occurs when food and gas form an obstruction somewhere along the digestive tract. If his stomach flips over, then that bloat becomes life-threatening pretty fast. This is a dog that really wants to please its owner, so establishing yourself as the boss pretty early on in life will go a long way toward having him become your best friend later on down the road. Early socialization for this kind of pup is crucial if you want it to grow up to be a well-rounded dog. They are intelligent, agile and athletic. Their energy needs to be occupied with exercise every day. The best way to channel their energy is through physical activity or training with your dog. No matter what age your German shepherd Border collie mix is, they will be able to exercise. It does not matter if you have a puppy or an adult, they will benefit from exercising daily. German Shepherd Border Collie Mixes need 30 minutes of exercise every day to maintain their physical and mental well-being. If your dog is still growing, he will require more than 30 minutes to keep them from getting bored or frustrated. You can take your dog out for a walk, run, jog, swim or play a game of fetch with them to fulfill their daily exercise requirement. If your dog is left home alone, he can destroy furniture, urinate, bark or howl to keep himself entertained. They have no hereditary problems with their joints and muscles. Their life expectancy is between 12 to 15 years. Reaction In Different Types of Weather Conditions: If you are looking out for how your German Shepherd Border Collie mix reacts in different weather conditions then here you will find different responses in different weather conditions which you must know, if you are looking out for a family pet. They are very active but not the kind of dog who loves to roam around in summer. They may find their way through much shady areas or even better if you can keep them in your house or indoors, where they will have access to open water for drinking. If you are living in a place that is hot all around the year with no chance of thunderstorms or rain then it is better not to look out for German shepherd Border collie mixes as they are very sensitive towards heat. They have a thick coat of fur, so they can adapt themselves to cold weather as well. Their sense of curiosity and playfulness will keep them going throughout the day during winter. They love to run around with their family members or alone. You must provide them with a safe and warm shelter so that they can have a better sleep at night. They will also be keenly looking out for the things which you throw for them to play with. They are very loyal and affectionate dogs who love to be with their family members at any cost. If you live in a thunderstorm-prone area then taking care of a German shepherd Border collie mix becomes a very difficult task as they will not stop barking every time there is a thunderstorm around. They are very responsive if their family members are around. If you think that there is no way out for them to understand their surroundings which makes them act weirdly, then it is better to keep them indoors during thunderstorms. They are to be chewed slowly and carefully. First off they are very smart, so training them should be relatively easy unless you opt not to! They will also learn new behaviors quickly and therefore can easily be taught tricks as well. They also inherit protective qualities from both breeds which makes them great guard dogs. They are strong enough to do their job but still gentle enough with children. And because they love being active they make excellent jogging or hiking companions too! However, one downside is that this mix does tend to shed quite a lot year-round and a fair bit more during shedding season typically late winter so be ready to vacuum often! Well, then again there are so many reasons why this crossbreed rocks. These dogs have been the targets of many people who would like to own one. There has been a lot of debate going on about this breed and whether it is good for you to get them as a pet or not. They are faithful and trustworthy companions. German Shepherd Border Collie mix adapts well to their environment, making them easy to get along with other household pets such as cats, dogs, and other animals. The German Shepherd Border collie mix is intelligent enough that training them would be easy to do. This mixed breed has an affectionate personality that makes them perfect for families who would like a dog that gets along well with kids and elderly people alike. Another interesting fact about these dogs is that they can be great watchdogs. They are very good at sensing people who would mean harm and will not hesitate to sound the alarm of any suspicious activity going on around your homes or properties. If you want this type of breed as your pet, make sure that you have enough space in your property where they can run around freely and get adequate exercise every day to keep them healthy and fit. Without proper exercise, they may become too energetic which could lead them to develop chewing habits because it makes them feel relieved from the stress caused by a lack of activities. Cons of having German Shepherd Border Collie mix These very loyal mix dogs tend to get easily attached so much so that if something happens and they lose their owner or the person they got attached to, they might get anxiety and develop depression. Owners have heard their pets howling in the middle of the night as if they were crying because of something that happened. They need a lot of attention from their owners which means you need to be with them most or all of the time. Just like all types of dogs, the German Shepherd Border Collie mix needs proper training so make sure to provide them with what they need to live a better life. Final Thoughts: German Shepherd Border Collie Mix makes great companion animals, but you will need plenty of space for them! They need room to run around and burn off some energy which means your yard must be big. If you live in an apartment then this might not be the right pet for you. However, if you live on a farm or somewhere with plenty of room, they will be very happy! These dogs also need to be trained early and often. They are smart breeds which means they can easily learn bad behaviors as well. Early training will help curb bad behaviors before they start appearing so train them now rather than later. Having these dogs in your lives can be both beneficial and cause some problems so make sure to weigh both sides before finally making a decision. It is wise to do research first about this breed before actually getting one so that everything would go well with you and your new pet. In the end, have in mind that if you take good care of these creatures they will return you with all their love and loyalty. Be prepared for some shedding too! These mixes shed pretty much all year round so there is always hair around the house. A brush or comb should take care of most extra fur though! When fully grown male dogs can reach anywhere from inches tall at the shoulder whereas females can reach inches tall at the shoulder. As for weight, those numbers are about lbs and lbs respectively! These dogs will be larger than either parent so you will need plenty of space for them to roam around! Border Collies and German Shepherds are two of the most popular breeds in the world. When their genes combine, you get a beautiful dog that both look like one of these wonderful breeds, but also has some of the best qualities from each breed infused into their adorable tangled coats. Their intelligence and hardworking nature make them great choices for families with older children who can appreciate how much work it takes to train and care for such an intelligent dog. But even though they tend to be calm dogs when fully grown, puppies can be very active — especially during the first six months after which time they tend to settle down and become much calmer. Post navigation. Where did the German Shepherd Border Collie mix come from? So their history is the combined history of those two breeds! Based on their heritage, it may be assumed that the hybrid was the result of a desire for the ultimate large dog. One that has athletic ability, agility and a protective yet playful nature. There, early Collies were bred to do much the same thing that they do today. Herd and protect livestock. Sheepdogs such as the Border Collie have been in existence for centuries. Modern Border Collies are still excellent working dogs, especially on ranches. Formed to create the ultimate herding or guide dog. In a climate where working outside often meant braving cold weather and damp conditions, the Shepherd dog had to be tough. The GSD eventually became a refined herding breed known for its stamina and work ethic. The AKC formally recognized the breed in .Later, Shepherds became associated with military, police, and service work. All sectors in which you can find them working in today. Nor what color or length their coats will be. Along with the standard colors that are associated with the parent breeds. Adding another level of possibility is the fact that hybrids may look like a mix of their parents. Height and Weight The German Shepherd and Collie mix has the potential to be a medium or large-sized dog. If the pup takes after its GSD parent, then it may mature to somewhere between 80 and 90 pounds. If she takes after her Border Collie parent, then she may only get to about 40 pounds or so. Most pups will fall somewhere in between. You can expect German Shepherd Collie crosses to reach roughly inches at the shoulder. This is a soft undercoat is below a rough top coat. Or it may come out somewhere in between! No matter which parent it resembles more, a Shollie will require weekly brushing. These needs will increase when seasonal shedding occurs. This is a high shedding dog, that will leave fur and dander around your home. They are unfortunately not suitable pets for a home with human dog allergy sufferers. Bringing a hybrid dog into your home, especially a large one such as the German Shepherd x Border Collie? Are German Shepherd Mixes Aggressive? German Shepherds are often found in the police and military sectors. This line of work has made the breed a bit notorious for being aggressive, and unfairly so. German Shepherds should not all be viewed as aggressive dogs. Police and military dogs are highly trained and intelligent animals. Border Collie German Shepherd mixes are naturally very inquisitive dogs. They do not enjoy sitting without a job to do or a game to play. This can sometimes result in destructive behavior. Especially if a Collie is kept cooped up and without toys or other enrichment activities. With all of this in mind, it is likely that a German Shepherd Collie mix will need to be kept as a working or sporting dog. Unless you will be able to exercise him frequently and provide him with things to keep his busy brain focused. Although a hybrid puppy may be an equal mix of its purebred parents. There is also the possibility that the puppy will take after one parent more so than the other. German Shepherd and Border Collie Health Any type of dog, purebred or hybrid, may be afflicted with inherited or age-related health conditions. Such as hip or elbow dysplasia, eye diseases, allergies, and skin irritations. German Shepherd and Border Collie mixes, however, are particularly prone to the conditions that their parent breeds often develop. One thing to note is that both German Shepherds and Border Collies are both prone to hip dysplasia. So Shollies may be especially at risk of developing this condition. This can help to determine what health problems their offspring may be afflicted with. Additionally, be sure that the breeding stock have good hip scores. Shollies can make great family pets for active homes that are interested in positive reinforcement training. For starters, Shollies are medium- to large-sized working dogs that have pretty high exercise requirements. Weight gain is especially concerning for this hybrid, as it is prone to developing hip dysplasia. They need to have something to occupy their intelligent minds, or they may turn your home into a giant chew toy! Border Collie German Shepherd Mix Puppies There are a lot of factors to consider when deciding whether to bring a Shollie puppy into your home. Absolutely not! If you get a Shollie puppy, their naturally intelligent and highly trainable nature means that you can socialize it to other animals and people. Make sure you meet both parents and are happy with their temperaments and health tests carried out by the breeder. Socialize your pup thoroughly and you could end up with a wonderful companion for many years to come. German shepherds were initially bred in Germany in the 19th century and were officially recognized as a breed in .Border collies are primarily sheepdogs that were officially recognized in the British Isles in the 19th century. Both dog breeds are considered highly intelligent, trainable, and agile. This is why German shepherds have been widely adopted as working dogs and are often seen in military and police roles. Border collies frequently compete with great success in sheepdog trials and are considered among the top sporting dogs. Exactly when the Shollie emerged and precisely what breeders were trying to achieve with the new breed is unclear. But the result tends to be a relatively large and athletic dog that is highly intelligent and protective. Thanks to these traits, the Shollie makes an excellent family dog. It is important to remember that, unlike with purebred dogs, when you mix dog breeds, the results are always a bit unpredictable. Shollie Appearance You can expect Shollies to be fairly large dogs with a lean and athletic physique. According to the breed standard, German shepherds tend to measure 22 to 26 inches tall, with males generally an inch or two larger than females. Border collies are a bit smaller, measuring from 18 to 22 inches. Nevertheless, you will rarely see a Shollie that measures less than 20 inches. They typically weigh around 70 to 90 pounds. While these big dogs are gentle, their substantial size means they can misjudge their strength and could accidentally hurt children or older, more fragile individuals. Shollies can be almost any color combination of their parents, including black, brown, golden, and white, and they are almost always a mix of at least two different colors. They often have attractive mottled patterning. Border collies have a warm undercoat with a protective outer coat that tends to be longer and can be either smooth or shaggy. German shepherds also have a warm undercoat with a longer overcoat. You can expect a Shollie to have a similar double coat, probably with quite long hair. This puts them at a fairly high risk of overheating in hot temperatures. They also tend to shed a lot, and their hair can easily become matted if not brushed regularly to remove shedded hairs that have clung to their coat. Shollies look their best when they receive daily brushing. Most Shollies will have brown eyes and a face with a fairly long muzzle. They can either have the pointed ears of a German shepherd or the floppy ears of a border collie. Shollie Temperament: Athleticism Both German shepherds and border collies are working dogs bred for herding, so they are bred to be active. You can expect their Shollie offspring to have a lot of energy and need quite a bit of exercise. Shollies need a minimum of one hour of exercise per day, preferably split into two or three shorter sessions throughout the day. They will appreciate being taken to off-leash dog parks where they can run around without being restricted by the leash. In addition to this, these dogs will love to accompany their family on outdoor adventures, such as hiking trips and walks. They are agile and intelligent and will be able to look after themselves on hiking trails. Shollie Temperament: Trainability Both border collies and German shepherds are highly intelligent, and their offspring tend to inherit this characteristic. They learn quickly and are highly adaptable. Shollies can generally figure out what is needed from them quickly in new situations. Bred as training dogs, Shollies also tend to be easy to please. More independent and stubborn breeds might know what you want but still not give it to you; this is not the case with the Shollie. They can easily become bored if they do not have tasks to keep them occupied. This is why it is always a good idea to teach them tasks, even if they will be living as a family pet. They will also benefit from complex toys like puzzle games to keep them occupied when left alone. If they are left alone for too long without something to stimulate their brain, they may just find their own entertainment. This tends to be the destructive sort of chewing and digging. Shollie Temperament: Independence Shollies tend to want to be part of the family. They will quickly bond with the people they spend a lot of time with and become protective of them. They will often be on alert when other people or animals approach and can display territorial behavior if they feel threatened. They tend to have an affinity for children and enjoy playing with them, though they should always be supervised around small children. Threats to their little people, in particular, can bring out their protective instinct. Are you worried your dog is overly possessive? Watch out for these important signs. These dogs have a tendency to become anxious or depressed if they are left alone for long periods of time. They are not the type of dog you can leave alone at home for several hours while you are at work. Considering a day care service for your dog? Read our tips for choosing the best day care for your dog. When you are at home, be prepared for plenty of love and affection from your Shollie. These dogs will love to be close to you, whether that means sitting at your feet or snuggling up with you on the couch if you let them. They can live anywhere from 13 to 15 years, which is an impressive lifespan for such a large dog. But, as is the case with many large dogs, they can also suffer from joint issues, in particular hip and elbow dysplasia, which is when the joint socket becomes malformed. The best way to avoid this problem is with a healthy diet and plenty of exercise. Ensuring that their calorie intake matches their energy output is key. Overall, Shollies are among some of the healthiest dogs that you will come across. Should I Get A Shollie? Whether or not a Shollie is the right dog for you depends on a variety of different factors. Consider the following questions when determining whether or not to adopt this crossbreed. Where Do You Live? They will do better in a place with a large backyard where they can keep themselves occupied. Shollies need a lot of exercise. They need a minimum of one hour of exercise each day, preferably spread out over a number of short sessions throughout the day. Do you have the energy to walk your dog every day? Shollies are very social animals, and they can become depressed and anxious if they are forced to spend a lot of time on their own. Is there generally someone at home at your place, or is the house empty for several hours at a time when everyone goes to work? Will your dog get the companionship that they need in your house? If not, be prepared for lots of destructive behavior when your Shollie is left alone. Are You Committed To Training? Luckily, Shollies are intelligent and eager to learn, which means even new dog owners should be able to train them fairly easily. But Shollies are also working dogs, and they often need the mental stimulation of having a task to do to keep them occupied. This means training them is not just about controlling their behavior; it is also about keeping them occupied. This is why it can be useful to teach your Shollie tricks. Is this something that you will be willing to do? If not, perhaps a smaller and more passive breed is better suited to your lifestyle. Do you live somewhere that is likely to be too hot for them? There is no escaping the fact that Shollies are shedders, and dealing with dog hair is a fact of life when you have one of these dogs. If you suffer from allergies or asthma, you might want to consider a different dog. Do you have someone who can take in your Shollie when you travel? Alternatively, do you have access to a large kennel that gives them plenty of room? Your dog will suffer if they need to stay in a small cage for a few weeks while you are away. Can You Afford A Shollie? Dog ownership, regardless of the breed you choose, can be surprisingly expensive. While you may already realize that the cost of their food will add up, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Yes, Shollies are excellent dogs, as they are intelligent and trainable pups with a friendly temperament. They are high-energy dogs that need lots of exercise, love, and affection, so they are a big commitment in terms of time, but otherwise they are relatively low maintenance. Are Shollies aggressive? Any dog that has been through traumatic situations can become aggressive. So, if you are adopting an older Shollie that may have come from a difficult home, speak to the adoption agency about any behavioral issues that they might have and how to properly handle them. How much is a Shollie puppy? How much a Shollie puppy costs will depend largely on where you get them from. You may be able to find a Shollie at a local shelter, in which case you may only need to cover the administrative costs of the service. Do Shollies bark a lot? They can be trained not to bark when it is not necessary, for example, when people pass your home. If your dog starts barking a lot for no apparent reason, it can be a sign that there is something wrong health-wise. Which is better, male or female Shollies? Whether you should get a male or female Shollie depends on your priorities. Females tend to be a bit smaller, and they are also more focused on tasks if you want a working dog. Males tend to be more easygoing and less likely to engage in excessively protective behavior. The Verdict On Shollies When you are a first-time dog owner, you are often told to steer clear of the more athletic dog breeds, as they tend to be a handful and need an experienced hand. But if you are looking for a pup to accompany you on all of your adventures, this can be disappointing. If the above sounds like you, then a Shollie, a border collie and German shepherd mix, might be the right pup for you! Shollies are very energetic and athletic dogs that will quickly become part of the family. You will probably want to take them with you on all of your weekend adventures. What you do need, however, is the time and space in your home to take on this boisterous new member of the family. Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist.

In the rare case that your Golden Retriever is a finicky eater, Glycoflex 3 is one of the tastiest chew treats available. It contains highly effective ingredients to help with arthritis pain. Product features: Highly palatable supplement chews that are small and easy to administer Combines GAG ingredients with green-lipped mussel Comes in bags of chews Glucosamine and MSM are the two main glycosaminoglycans contained within Glycoflex 3. It also contains an ingredient known as green-lipped mussel GLM. GLM is a kind of shellfish that is native to New Zealand and has many uses in human medicine because it is known for its anti-inflammatory effects. It also is a rich source of omega 3s and also some GAGs such as glucosamine and chondroitin. Studies show that GLM can help dogs with pain due to osteoarthritis. This can be expensive, especially for large breed dogs! Each of the three are provided in high doses for maximum joint support. It also contains manganese, which is an antioxidant. While it does not contain some of the herbal ingredients or omega 3s found in other supplements, Cosequin is still highly bioavailable which means that your Golden may start to show results a little sooner than the four to six-week mark. Also, fewer ingredients mean a lower overall cost. Pros: Contains high amounts of glycosaminoglycan ingredients Available in larger quantities and is very cost effective Can be purchased online through Amazon. Typically, they are not meant to treat a particular illness, but can help lessen the severity of certain clinical signs. Because commercial diets provide the right amounts of vitamins and minerals, owners must be cautious giving certain supplements to their dogs. This is because certain vitamins like A, D, E, and K are fat-soluble vitamins, meaning that your dog can develop health problems if he is overdosed. Over the past few decades, joint supplements have been very popular for dogs, and fiber supplements and probiotics have recently played an important role in various gastrointestinal ailments. Each stage has specific nutritional needs, and supplements can play a crucial role in supporting their health and well-being. Here is what you need to know about each stage and which supplements may be needed for a puppy, adult, or senior dog. Puppy Stage During the puppy stage, Golden Retrievers grow and develop rapidly. They require a diet that is high in protein, fat, and other essential nutrients. Supplements that can benefit Golden Retriever puppies include probiotics, which can help promote healthy digestion and support their immune system. Joint support supplements can also help support the development of strong bones and joints, which is important for large breeds like Golden Retrievers. Adult Stage During the adult stage, Golden Retrievers need a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. Supplements that can benefit adult Golden Retrievers include probiotics, which can promote healthy digestion and support their immune system. Omega-3 fatty acids can help maintain healthy skin and coat, while joint support supplements can help prevent joint problems later in life. Antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E can also be beneficial for adult Golden Retrievers, as they help to support a healthy immune system and prevent oxidative damage. Senior Stage As Golden Retrievers enter their senior years, they may require different supplements to support their health. Joint support supplements become even more important as they age, as they may be prone to arthritis and other joint problems. Omega-3 fatty acids can also help support cognitive function in senior Golden Retrievers, as well as maintain healthy skin and coat. Antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E can also be beneficial for senior dogs, as they help to support their immune system and prevent oxidative damage. Conclusion From probiotics to fiber and joint supplements, there are simply too many products available to remember them all. Be sure to check that you are feeding your Golden the right amount of food as well. Read our Golden Retriever Feeding Chart to learn more. These duck-flavored chews are formulated with glucosamine HCL, methylsulfonylmethane MSM , turmeric, green-lipped mussels, and organic hemp oil to help promote overall joint health and relieve inflammation due to everyday exercise. Together, they can work to help support a healthy inflammatory response and promote overall health. If you have any concerns about your puppy's heart function or health, talk to your vet for their recommendations. Packed with fish oil, biotin, vitamin C, and vitamin E, these chews bring relief to dry, itchy, sensitive, and flaky skin and help make your dog's coat soft and shiny. Even better? These tasty treats support hip and joint health, immune system function, and cardiovascular activity for overall health. Made with over 25 nutrients, including omega 3s and 6s, this multivitamin tablet supports your puppy's cardiovascular system, nervous system, and immune system as well as cognitive and liver health. This supplement can be given to dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds. This daily tablet can help your puppy maintain healthy teeth and bones. It's flavorless, too, so you can give it to your pup by hand or crumble it and mix it in with his food. Made to help prevent urinary issues, this supplement contains ingredients like pumpkin seed powder, rehmannia glutinosa powder, phytoestrogens, wild yam, and soy protein to support your pup's urinary health. Made with a bacterium known as bifidobacterium longum BL , this supplement along with proper separation anxiety training can help keep your pup calm. It can help your dog who has diarrhea or maybe recovering from parvo," Ochoa says. What To Look For It can be difficult to find the best supplements for ourselves, nevertheless for our puppies. However, there are a few ways you can differentiate between what to add to your cart and what to leave on the shelf. Ingredients Because supplements aren't regulated by the U. Food and Drug Administration, pay careful attention to the ingredients in a particular supplement. It is more of a treat that tastes good, and there are not any real supplements in the treats. Efficacy Because supplements aren't regulated, Whittenburg recommends researching any potential option and looking for peer-reviewed published studies that demonstrate their efficacy. If you'd really like to do some digging, she says you can reach out to the manufacturer to see if they follow the Good Manufacturing Practices GMP guidelines and are approved by the U. No one company makes all of those, but your vet will know the best brands in each category. Glucosamine and chondroitin Folic acid Remember that all of these nutrients must be given in proper amounts. This way, your dog will think of the vitamin as a treat instead of a medication. This will make feeding much easier, especially if you have a picky dog. With that, a supplement with a lot number means it has undergone quality control procedures. This also means that the manufacturer is monitoring the movement of the product, so it can be pulled out of the market even before it reaches the end of its shelf life. If canine supplement sellers make too-good-to-be-true promises, you should consider looking for another product. These claims are often unfounded and can potentially pose harm to some dogs. Big brands often have a network of laboratories, advanced manufacturing facilities, and experts that guarantee the efficacy of the vitamins. As much as possible, look for canine vitamins made by pet brands. These brands are also tried and tested by thousands of dog owners around the world. Second, the fact that the brand is willing to refund your purchase says a lot about their confidence in their products. Tips in giving vitamins to your Golden Retriever Is your Goldie picky when it comes to vitamins? If the vet recommended a tablet or pill form, the following hacks would help trick your dog into taking the supplement: Mix it with food. Slather it with peanut butter. Another trick pet owners recommend is covering the vitamins with peanut butter. This will mask the undesirable taste of the pill or tablet. Place it inside a strawberry. Conceal it in a piece of cheese. Bait and switch. You can trick your dog into taking the supplement by giving it a few treats in a row then tossing the pill at a constant speed. Frequently Asked Questions Q: What vitamins are bad for dogs? A: While vitamins and minerals are often regarded as beneficial for canines, there are some that you have to be careful with. You should always watch out for the iron, calcium, and Vitamin D consumption of your Golden Retriever as too much can become poisonous. Q: What causes a weak immune system in dogs? Many pet owners also swear by a vitamin supplement to give their pets an added dose of nutrition. Q: Is Vitamin D good for dogs? A: Both dogs and humans need Vitamin D for good health. Excessive Vitamin D consumption can lead to joint issues, diarrhea, vomiting, excessive drooling, and poisoning. Q: Can I give my dog human fish oil as a supplement? A: Most human-grade fish oils are safe for dogs, but you should always mind the serving. If your dog starts to vomit or have diarrhea, you should stop giving fish oil right away. Final words The best vitamins for Golden Retrievers will help keep your dog safe from infections and various illnesses. Always listen to the vet instead of purchasing a supplement without professional advice. Do you want to make sure they are getting the supplements they need for a healthy life? It can sometimes be difficult to know what is best for them. Lucky for you, we have compiled a list of some of the best supplements on the market today that will help keep your Golden Retriever at their best! Things to Consider When Buying Supplements for Your Golden Retrievers There are certain things that you need to be careful about when you are buying supplements for your dog. Always Read the Labels Carefully The most important thing that you need to do when buying supplements for your dog is to read the labels carefully. This will ensure that you are getting the right dosage and that the supplement is safe for your pet. Some Supplements Can Interact With Other Medications Another thing to keep in mind when buying a supplement for your dog is that some of them can interact with other medications they may be taking. If you are unsure if a supplement will interact with another medication, it is best to talk to your veterinarian before giving it to your pet. Some dogs have allergies and can have adverse reactions to certain supplements. A Word about Reviews and Ratings Online Reviews and ratings online are something else you should be weary of when buying supplements for your pet. It is important that you read through them all carefully before making a final decision on the supplement in question, especially if it has a high rating or too many reviews claiming how great it is. This could mean there are not enough negative reviews out there because they were left by people who had issues with the product and did not want to post their review. Always take this into consideration as well! Take a Vet's Advice The best advice that we can give you when it comes to buying supplements for your Golden Retriever is to take a vet's advice. They will be able to tell you what the dog needs and what specific supplement would be best for them. So, if you are unsure about anything, always go to the vet! Not only will they be able to tell you about some good supplements but they will also guide you regarding the amount of supplements you should give your dog. Choose a Product That Has Variety of Ingredients Another thing to keep in mind is that you want a supplement with variety of ingredients. This will ensure that your dog is getting all the vitamins and nutrients they need for optimal health. It will also help to prevent any allergic reactions your dog may have. This company is known for their high quality supplements and they also have a variety of products to choose from. So, whether you are looking for a joint supplement or something to help with skin allergies, US Producers likely has what you need. Choose a Supplement Specifically Tailored For Your Dog's Needs In addition to choosing a supplement with variety of ingredients, you should also choose one that is specifically tailored for your dog's needs. For example, if your dog has joint pain, you will want to find a joint supplement that contains chondroitin and glucosamine. This will help to reduce the inflammation in the joints and help your Golden Retriever feel better. Make sure they actually need the respective supplement because you start giving it to them. This will reduce their chances of having an adverse reaction to it. There are several medical issues that Golden Retriever's face. The most common of these, is cancer. This can be in the form of lymphoma, tumors or cancer of the blood. If your Golden Retriever is diagnosed with cancer, you will likely have to start them on chemotherapy treatments. So, it is important that you keep this in mind when choosing a supplement for them. This will greatly increase your dog's chances of fighting off diseases and illnesses, including cancer! If you have ever heard about omega-rich fishes like tuna or salmon helping to reduce depression in humans, well this is basically the same principle. The fish oils found within these types of fishes are extremely beneficial for us because they contain essential fatty acids which our bodies cannot produce themselves but we still need them nonetheless. These fatty acids are then converted into prostaglandins. These may not sound like much but they play a critical role in the inflammation response and our body's general immunity to infection which is why they have been shown to help prevent cancer! One of the best on the market and one that has been shown to be highly effective at improving digestion in dogs, is Purina FortiFlora. This product will help keep their stomach healthy and improve how they digest food. In addition to using this for your Golden Retriever if it develops an upset stomach from eating something non-edible such as grass , you can also use this for prevention purposes. By doing so, it may actually reduce these symptoms before they occur! If your Golden Retriever already suffers from chronic constipation or gastric issues, this probiotic supplement can also be used to help improve their digestion. This is because it contains live active cultures which will colonize your dog's gut and actually reduce the harmful bacteria causing these digestive problems! Glucosamine are natural compounds that help build cartilage but they can upset the stomach of some dogs, causing vomiting. So if your Golden Retriever already has digestive issues it may be better off with these joint chews instead! These soft chews contain CMO chrondoitrin which is an ingredient known as "The New Glucosamine" due to how effective it is at improving mobility in older pets! This product also contains MSM, another excellent compound when it comes relieving joint pain, especially stiffness caused by arthritis. Plus, these joint chews are also a great way to promote healthy hips in your Golden Retriever. They contain antioxidants which help reduce inflammation and pain in the joints as well as Omega- fatty acids which can help lubricate the joints and improve overall mobility. If your dog is starting to slow down or has trouble getting up, it may be time to start him on a supplement like this! If your dog suffers from a heart condition or kidney problems, you should consider supplementing their diet with triglyceride omega fatty acids. These capsules are an excellent source of Omega- fatty acids which have been shown to improve heart health and help reduce the risk for kidney disease. They also contain antioxidants which can help protect the cells in the kidneys from damage. In addition to helping improve heart health and protecting the kidneys, these supplements can also help improve cognitive function in older dogs. This is because they contain DHA docosahexaenoic acid - an Omega-fatty acid that is known to support cognitive health. So if you're noticing your Golden Retriever isn't as sharp as they used to be, consider adding these capsules to their diet! Plus, since they are in capsule form, it's easy to add them into your dog's food without any fuss. Just give them one or two capsules a day and you'll be helping keep their heart and kidneys functioning properly! It contains cranberry extract which has been shown to be effective at preventing and treating UTIs. In fact, it's so effective that it's often prescribed by veterinarians to dogs with recurring UTIs! In addition to cranberry extract, this supplement also contains D-mannose. This is another compound that has been shown to be helpful in preventing and treating UTIs. D-mannose helps flush out the bacteria causing the infection, making it an excellent choice for quickly clearing up a UTI. This supplement also comes in chewable form, making it easy for your dog to take. Just give them one of these daily and they'll be on their way to a UTI-free life! These supplements come in the form of chews, and they are packed full of nutrients that are essential for healthy skin and coat. Some of the key ingredients in these chews include Omega- fatty acids and biotin. Both of these ingredients are known for their ability to promote healthy skin and coat, making them an excellent choice for keeping your dog's fur looking its best. Plus, these chews also contain antioxidants which can help protect your dog's skin from damage caused by free radicals. This can be especially helpful if you live in a dry climate or your dog spends a lot of time outdoors. Greenies supplements are also chock-full of nutrients that can help improve the health of your Golden Retriever's teeth and gums. We are fortunate enough to be living in a time where we can get supplements for almost all types of issues that our canine friends can suffer from. So if your golden retriever is suffering from any one of the above mentioned issues then you can get the supplements delivered right to your doorstep. You can also find supplements for other problems that your dog might face. All you have to do is go online and do some research and you are bound to find a good supplement that will work for your dog and help in relieving your dog of that that respective medical issue. More Health. E-mail Share Do you have concerns about the well-being of your Golden Retriever? Do you care that they obtain the necessary vitamins and minerals to live a long and healthy life? Knowing what's best for them can be challenging. To your good fortune, we have created a list of some of the most effective supplements and vitamins available today that will aid in maintaining any Golden Retriever's health. Pure Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil Taking your Golden Retriever on a diet of geniune, wild Alaskan salmon oil is a great way to help them stay healthy and strengthen their immune system. Your dog's resistance to cancer and other ailments will be significantly bolstered! Omega-3 fatty acid—rich fish, such as tuna and salmon, have been linked to a decreased risk of depression in people, and this is the same concept. These may not seem like much, but because they are so crucial for the immune system's overall defense against infection and the inflammatory response, they have been found to reduce cancer risk. It's no secret that probiotics have gained popularity in both human and animal health. People and animals carry both "good" and "bad" bacteria in their digestive systems. When there is an ailment or inflammation, harmful bacteria, called pathogens, can push out the good bacteria and cause more illness. The immune system can react more quickly and effectively to potential threats when supplemented with probiotics, colonies of live beneficial bacteria. Glandex Soft Chews Your Golden's allergies or digestive issues may stem from a problem with his anal glands. No matter the case, Glandex Soft Chews are among the leading fiber supplements on the market and can significantly improve anal gland health. These are small, marble-shaped glands located in a dog's anus. They secrete a thick, foul-smelling fluid that facilitates defecation. Soft and chewy, Glandex is packed with pumpkin and fiber. Because of the water absorption properties of these supplements, the resulting stool is more substantial and healthier. These bowel movements let your Retriever's anal glands discharge themselves naturally, reducing the risk of infection. Glucosamine is a natural substance that aids cartilage development; however, it might lead to nausea in some dogs. So, these joint chews might be healthier for your Golden Retriever if they already have stomach problems. Due to its impressive track record of enhancing mobility in senior pets, CMO chondroitin is dubbed "The New Glucosamine" and is included in these tasty chews. The MSM in this medication is another excellent component for alleviating joint pain, especially arthritis-related stiffness. Additionally, giving your Golden Retriever these joint chews is an excellent strategy to foster their hip health. Krillex Joint Supplement Most dogs will suffer from orthopedic diseases at some point. Orthopedic problems, like hip and elbow dysplasia, run in the family for Golden Retrievers, and elderly Goldens will probably acquire arthritis. Supplements targeted at the joints have been shown to slow the deterioration of joints, enhance joint function, and decrease pain and disability. For example, Krillex Joint Supplements are a multi-purpose supplement that can be taken as a single chewable tablet. Conclusion There are certainly far too many products on the market for most retriever parents to keep track of them all, including probiotics, fiber, and joint supplements. Your healthy Golden could use one of these supplements. Thus familiarizing yourself with the best brands is in everyone's best interest. Featured Golden Retriever Products.

The Golden Retriever-Poodle crossbreed is adorable, loyal, and a great option for allergy sufferers. Thinking about adding a Goldendoodle puppy to the family? Here is everything you need to know about the Goldendoodle puppy personality. Here are some facts to help you decide. Typically, they come in three sizes : standard, miniature, and toy. The standard Goldendoodle is the most common. They are usually taller than a Golden Retriever and weigh somewhere between pounds. Mini Goldendoodles are often the result of a Golden Retriever being bred with a smaller Poodle. A Mini Goldendoodle puppy will grow to be somewhere between 30 and 45 pounds. Toy Goldendoodles are roughly 15 — 20 pounds. While you may find a standard or mini Goldendoodle at your local rescue organization, toy Goldendoodles often require specific breeding standards and can only be acquired from a reputable breeder. Given that a puppy of this breed can grow to be anywhere from 15 to 70 pounds, it is no wonder that they can also be found in a variety of colors. Depending on the parents, the puppies can be tan, white, ream, red, black, tawny, or somewhere in between. A straighter coat can come from the Golden Retriever parent. A curly coat will likely be the most hypoallergenic, as it comes from the Poodle. They are not invincible and can get ill just like any other dog. Some Goldendoodles can be prone to Golden Retriever health issues , like hip and elbow disorders. If you are looking to rescue a Goldendoodle from your local shelter, chances are they will not have their entire lineage on file. They have a great desire to please and to learn. Both the Golden Retriever and the Poodle have very loyal personalities. They are both quick to bond with their humans and thrive on human affection. They are both also fairly tolerant of the occasional rough-housing regarding children. The Goldendoodle puppy is also a smart one, just like mom and dad. Canine psychologist Stanley Coren ranked the top ten smartest dog breeds. The Golden Retriever is placed at the fourth smartest breed. Coren ranked the Poodle the second smartest breed. The trend likely started thanks in large part to the creation of the Labradoodle , the Labrador Retriever and Poodle designer crossbreed. This is true in some capacity, but maybe not for what you think. Goldendoodles are often touted as a hypoallergenic dog breed. No dog breed is technically hypoallergenic. If you are allergic to dogs, there is a chance your Goldendoodle could set you off sneezing. Before you run out and bring home a Goldendoodle from your local rescue, though, be sure that the allergy sufferer in your home spends time with the dog before you take them home. Dogs, like people, are individuals, and while someone with allergies may be fine around one Goldendoodle, another one could potentially set off an allergic reaction. Since they are so popular, finding a Goldendoodle at your local shelter might take a while. You could always come across the perfect Goldendoodle for you at your local shelter or rescue group, as well. If you are really hoping to quickly add a Goldendoodle to your life, a breeder may take just as long. Many reputable breeders have waitlists for people who want a Goldendoodle puppy. Here at DogTime, we are strong believers in adopting your pets. If you really want get your own Goldendoodle, check at your local shelters and rescues before speaking with a breeder. Are you thinking of getting your family a Goldendoodle puppy? If you are a Goldendoodle owner, do you have any advice for folks who want one? Let us know in the comments below! The Miniature Goldendoodle A miniature goldendoodle is quite an amazing creature that has been bred for its unique yet impressive qualities. Starting with the standard goldendoodle breeding of a standard poodle and golden retriever cross, the intelligence, common sense, friendliness, and trainability of a goldendoodle has made this breed a favorite of many dog owners and dog lovers. On top of this the cross retains a good portion of the non-shedding quality of the poodle, while also keeping part of the attractive look of a golden retriever. Combining all these traits into one dog seems quite appealing, but we have one more trait to add to this list. A standard goldendoodle will range anywhere from pounds, which is quite large for a house pet. To achieve the goldendoodle attributes in a more compact package, a miniature poodle is crossed with a golden retriever. Our Miniature Goldendoodles Sandy Ridge miniature goldendoodles are being raised to be the best pets for a dog owner. We have had consistent breeding of the mini golden doodle having a low to non-shedding coat and wonderful temperament suitable for just about any type of family. We have also found our minis to range on average from 30 to 45 pounds at maturity. There is a little variety in Sandy Ridge minis. We get coat types from slightly wavy to moderately curly and coloring from completely blonde to golden red. We cannot guarantee a puppy will be in the expected size range due to the differing genetic sizes to the parents, but our average generally holds true. With all health concerns addressed and responsible breeding practices performed, there still is the possibility a health problem could arise. We offer a two year genetic guarantee against any genetic defect or health issue that hopefully will not, but possibly could arise. If you have any questions, please contact us. A happy customer is our priority. Here are some pictures of some of our past miniature goldendoodle puppies. She fluctuates from 16 — 18 pounds depending on the season and the amount of exercise she is getting. She runs, plays, chases birds, rabbits and anything else that moves. She still acts as silly as ever. She still gets the zoomies, goes on regular walks and is living a happy and healthy life. Other than a little bit of incontinence and some cloudiness in the eyes, aging has been good to her. Every birthday that passes, we realize just how lucky we are to have her around! She is starting to show her age at this point and we are doing everything we can to make this journey last as long as possible. While she does have a few issues, she is still mostly healthy. Her main issue is kidney disease. She is currently in upper stage 2 and we are doing everything we can to slow the progression. She also has some other issues associated with aging including arthritis, cloudy eyes, and slight hearing loss. However, she still has lots of playful energy and still loves playing hide and seek with us in the house. She goes up and down the stairs as well as she always has and she still loves to chase rabbits and birds around the backyard, sometimes in an all-out sprint! We love taking in these moments when she has a burst of energy and plays in ways that are reminiscent of her younger years. However, what we love most is just seeing her happy and content while snuggling up against us. We think the world of her and are grateful for each day we get to spend with her! About Hi, I'm Dan and I am a proud Goldendoodle parent and love to write about and share my experiences of owning a Goldendoodle for 16 years. Learn more about me and this site. Search this website. Allison Hello friends! You will probably want a puppy after reading this post. They were super soft and cuddly and sleepy. Enjoy some day-brightening photos! It was golden hour and the lawn was nicely mowed and ah, just a perfect setting! Jeff was still wearing his wristband from the fair. Click the link there to see my post about it. Sully plumb wore this pup out! Nah, they were already sleepy when we came. Two of my cousins. We tried to round up all the puppies but they found the tenth puppy after I took this picture. They named each and remember them by their tiny collars, but this guy was easier to tell apart because of the little star on his forehead. Siblings make good pillows apparently. She looks like a princess. Sadie is such a pretty golden retriever and seemed like such a good mom. I tried taking a picture without looking at the viewfinder and this is what happened… Furry! Another sleepy one. Haha this one makes me smile. I think my siblings loved the puppies as much as I did. How about one in each hand? Hehe I love this one. So cute! Well, that made me happy. I hope these photos brought you joy too. Nothing like cute animals to brighten a day! But these puppies were just a little cuter in appearance, eheh. What is your favorite dog breed? Which picture s did you like best? Thanks so much for reading, my friends, and have a lovely day! Photos taken with my Nikon D and a 35mm lens. Edited with Lightroom. Share this on:.

History Where are German Shepherd Dogs from? Perhaps never in the history of any breed has such concerted effort been put into improving a dog, mostly due to the formation in of the Verein fur Deutsche Scharferhunde SV, an organization in Germany devoted to overseeing the breeding of the German Shepherd. Breeders sought to develop not only a herding dog but also one that could excel at jobs requiring courage, athleticism, and intelligence. During World War I, they were the obvious choice for a war sentry. The Wolfdog was later dropped as it caused many people to fear the dogs. How big do German Shepherd Dogs get? The double-coat, with a thick undercoat that sheds twice annually, loses hair continuously but can be maintained with regular brushing one or two times weekly. What are the German Shepherd Dog colors? Black, tan, solid black and solid sable. How long do German Shepherd Dogs live? Lifespan: 10—12 years What are some German Shepherd Dogs facts and information? The German Shepherd held the number one spot in American popularity for many years. Although presently it has dropped from the top spot, the German Shepherd remains as one of the most versatile dogs ever created, serving as a police dog, war dog, guide dog, search-and-rescue dog, narcotics- or explosives-detecting dog, show dog, pet—and even shepherd. Related Content. Thinking a senior dog is not a fit? Please, follow the link , you may be surprised. Senior dogs kick off our foster dog list. Fostering is an extremely rewarding experience. Please consider opening your home and prepare to be awed by the joy these dogs bring. She is potty trained and crate trained. Currently lives with puppy Artemis and the 85 lbs. Click for more information.He is a great dog that listens well but he will become over protective if given the chance. I have taken Coc.He is a 50 pound speedster. Dax is good with dogs but would not be good with cats or small children. He has been good in the house once he has a chanc.She is good with other dogs and did well at the events she attended including the local radio station. She has been good in the house and does well in a crate. She has not.He is full of affection. She was picked up as a stray in Fairfax.Lailah was surrendered to a shelter by her owner, spayed a few days lat.She is a good little girl who is good with my other dogs and she is happiest when she is chasing them around the yard. She is good in the house and is my one couch pota.Madison is a feisty little girl who was an owner surrender in Southern VA. She is very friendly and playful. Madison loves to give kisses to everyone. She takes her treats very gently.She is around 4 years old now. She may be a bohemian shepherd. She is funny, goofy, intuitive and smart. She acts.Max is a good boy who is a very energetic young dog and needs lots of exercise to get his energy out. It seems as though Max had very little structure in his previous home a.Aren't my ears the best? My foster mom says they remind her so.She is quiet and observant of her surroundings. Misha loves going for walks and exploring everything around her. He is a busy boy and has done well since coming here. He is okay with my dogs but would do best with an older confident male. He would not be good with cats or children. Moose will.My name is Pawlina and I am here to tell you that I behave like a youngster! I was picked up as a stray and the shelter guessed my age at 10 years, but my.She loves attention. She is good with other do.Very friendly and playful. He loves to play and is great with my other dogs. He is one of four puppies from the same litter who were given up to a friend of the.She loves to play and is great with my other dogs. She is one of four puppies from the same litter who were given up to a friend of t.Radar is a love-bug that wants adult humans of his own. He had a rough puppyhood stray, shelter, bad adoption experience and needs an.This senior boy is great with all humans, dogs, cats, rabbits.He is a gentle soul, we call him the big easy! He is leash trained, crate trained and house trai.She is smart and responsive. She is housebroken, loves her toys, comes when she is called, learned the eFence, She is house broken and crate trained although she doesn't really require a crate and often times free roams her foster home. She knows basic commands such.Yep, all my fur is black, well, except for a small white patch on my very handsome chest and on the tips of b

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for West Virginia Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in West Virginia? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in West Virginia? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. More than twice as many Labs were registered than any other breed making it a likely leader for many years to come. In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Lab can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: Dogs are great stress relievers for children. Imagine the effects on family life when the stress levels of parents go down. Children who have a dog feel more secure about home safety and going to sleep in the dark. One of the greatest stresses on children is night fears. To have this overcome, or lessened, is a great benefit to relieving stress. For children who are having any sort of difficulties at school, but especially thoughts and concerns over being liked or accepted, having a dog as a companion that loves you unconditionally is positive and brings with it a good feeling and alleviates symptoms of depression. Be sure to read the rest of her seven part article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for more than thirty-five years. Our second-to-none Puppy Guarantee makes buying a pure-bred Labrador retriever one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Lab owners from around the country. And visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-date puppy information at .Did you know… Parkersburg was originally named Newport when it was laid out in the late 18th century following the American Revolutionary War. A town section was laid out over land granted to Alexander Parker for his Revolutionary War service, as Virginia, which then controlled the territory, was using land grants in lieu of cash payments to veterans. The town was renamed Parkersburg in .Louis, Missouri. Today the structure is known as the Parkersburg Bridge. Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client!

Quickly place your dog in their designated potty area. Praise them when they urinate or mess in the correct area. You must always watch them when they are loose in the house, or else they will have an accident. Follow this guide on potty training your German Shepherd , step-by-step, for a stress-free experience. Enjoy Gentle Daily Exercise German Shepherd puppies have lots of energy but still need gentle exercise. Your breed is highly active and loves the challenge of new activities! But these activities must consider their age. Start with a shorter walking session and work on building up the time and distance as your dog matures. Increase distance very slowly to avoid injuries to your dog. Begin with only 5 minutes of slow walking for every month your pup is old. An 8-week-old pup can walk 10 minutes at a time. A week-old pup can handle 15 minutes of walking at a leisurely pace. Your large-breed pup needs time to let its bone fully fuse and to gain an increase in strength. Here are a few more safe, healthy German Shepherd puppy exercise for steady growth. This is the same program I used for my GSD and she now jogs a 10k routinely. Mental Exercise and Training are Essentials Without proper mental exercise, your dog becomes bored. Boredom leads to destructive and annoying behaviors such as: excessive barking biting and nipping you and your guests mouthing your hands or digging up your yard Brain games mentally stimulate your dog. These games require your dog to figure out a small task to receive a reward. Mental activity is shown to help keep dogs more engaged in their environments and prevent boredom. They help control unwanted behaviors from boredom. I started my German Shepherd with this activity flip board dog brain puzzle. As your dog becomes proficient in a game, you make the game more challenging. There is no end to how easy or hard you can make these games! Learn the Joys of Grooming Start puppies out with grooming gloves, which are gentle and easier on their skin. GSDs need a brushing routine that keeps them and your house free from excessive loose hair and helps their skin stay healthy. Use these grooming gloves on your puppy while in a quiet area. They are soft and gentle and create a positive association with future grooming. Offer tasty treats to keep the grooming upbeat. Use a soothing voice and tell them how good they are. Above all, help make grooming and brushing positive experiences from the very start to save yourself and your dog stress later. A baby German Shepherd that tolerates and even enjoys a daily brushing is a dog that is easier to keep in better health and experiences less frustration when you bring out the grooming tools. While a puppy gets immunity through nursing in the first weeks of life, the immunity wears off shortly. Therefore puppies get a series of shots during their initial vaccination schedule. Vaccines prevent illness and keep your pet safe from disease. Your breeder should give your pup their first vaccination series before you bring them home. Bring this vaccination history with you to your vet on your first visit. Your Priority of Care What to Do 1. Make your house puppy ready for your new dog Prepare their sleep area, have the right supplies on hand, and make sure any hazards are put away out of reach. Communicate the essentials Have a list of words printed out so that you and your family know what to say to help your puppy learn what you want and what he needs to know. Meet their daily needs Your puppy has a lot to do each day for their basic care, so understand what routine you must develop for them to thrive. Set sleep routines Having a sleep routine in place keeps your puppy from becoming too unruly. Teach potty training Start from day 1 to teach potty and house training by using a structured schedule. Daily gentle exercise German Shepherd puppies need gentle exercise so avoid running, jumping, or jogging with them until around 18 months or so to prevent joint issues later. Brain training and mental stimulation Your smart breed needs to keep their mind occupied by using a training program to brain train their obedience skills and include mental stimulation with fun games and puzzles. Early introduction to grooming A grooming glove is your best friend for a safe, easy introduction to later brushing and coat maintenance. German Shepherd Puppy Care for Life While there are many aspects to puppies, this guide is a great start on learning how to take care of a German Shepherd puppy so you feel confident with your new puppy. These early encounters set the pattern of his future relationship with you. Use these ideas to make your German Shepherd love you and give them plenty of love and affection throughout the day. With proper care and attention, you and your GSD will enjoy a long, happy life together. Want more help with your German Shepherd puppy care for even smoother sailing? Are you prepared for any unusual and surprising behavior changes? Do you know what training your dog needs and when? She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. They are intelligent, loyal and energetic dogs when grown, but require lots of training and stimulation to avoid boredom and become well-adjusted socially. While loving to their owners, they are often distant with strangers and can suffer from separation anxiety when their owner is away. It is highly unusual for the puppy's owner to care for them during this time and is best left to a responsible, reputable breeder. Your puppy's body will double in weight as their muscles, organs and bones develop. Nutrition During the neonatal stage, your German Shepherd puppy will get most of their nutrition from their mother's milk. At around 4 weeks you may wish to introduce a few kibbles mixed with warm water. Health During this time it is important to monitor your GSD for any infections, diseases or birth defects. Puppies are unable to urinate or defecate by themselves initially, so their mother helps them but may additionally require your assistance. Keep your vet's contact details close by and educate yourself thoroughly on this stage of puppy development. By the end of this period, your puppy will be mobile and will explore the world mouth first — be sure to keep choking hazards and toxic foods out of their reach. Behaviour During most of this time your GSD will be asleep or inactive, but they will soon be playing with their brothers and sisters. After weeks they will go through as much sensory development as a human baby does in a few months. It is important to avoid disturbing the puppies' mother as she will be likely be protective, but some interaction with the young pups is normal so they become used to human touch. This is a formative time for your puppy and will be when they learn to walk, play, bite, hold their bladder, and interact with others. In this time your GSD will develop a trusting relationship with you and will respond negatively to harsh treatment, so be sure be assertive and establish your dominance but avoid shouting. Nutrition During the weaning stage, you should slowly introduce into their diet a nutritionally complete dog food which is appropriate to your German Shepherd's large size and young age. This breed tend not to be gluttons and quickly work off any weight during exercise, but this time is crucial for developing healthy bones and joints so feed them the best quality food you can. You should also familiarise yourself with lists of toxic foods and plants to avoid and hide as your puppy will soon find ways to get into places it shouldn't be. If your GSD is a long-haired variant you should make them familiar with brushing early as this will become a daily necessity for their entire life. You must be careful to monitor play and not allow your puppy to play too rough or they may irreversibly damage their sensitive back legs and shoulders. Behaviour Due to the changes in their environment, your GSD will likely be under a significant amount of stress. It's important that you provide lots of attention and build your relationship early, but be careful not to allow your puppy to become dependent on your attention and presence. GSDs are often described as aloof since they are shy with strangers — it is important to socialise them with strangers early so that they do not become aggressive towards people and dogs they are unfamiliar with. Your GSD will be full of energy and already require lots of time exercising, playing and in training. Your dog will likely do well at puppy training school and will benefit from obedience training to help control them in public. Nutrition Your German Shepherd puppy's diet should be based around a high quality, nutritionally complete puppy food. It is particularly important that you make sure your pup has the right diet at this time to help them grow properly and avoid joint or bone problems later in life. Your GSD has a double coat which changes with the seasons: the bottom layer sheds in the warmer weather, but will need daily or weekly brushing to help it along. After around 8 weeks your puppy will be due for some vaccinations, so they will need a checkup at the vet and to arrange for boosters after that. Studies showed that dogs supplemented with a diet of bovine colostrum had a quicker and stronger immune system response to CDV vaccine as compared to dogs fed a control diet. Colostrum supplemented dogs maintained a higher antibody level even after 40 weeks. A diet supplemented with Colostrum helps bridge the immunity gap in puppies that occurs between 3 weeks and 5 months of age. Behaviour German Shepherds are unendingly loyal to their family but are distant with people they don't know, so familiarise them with friends, strangers and other dogs early. It is vital to teach your pup early to be patient with children who may not respect their boundaries and might otherwise provoke aggressive behaviour. It is important to provide your GSD with lots of sturdy, entertaining toys to stimulate them — a bored German Shepherd will destroy your furniture and backyard for fun. Recommended Articles. German Shepherd dogs are known for their athletic capabilities, intelligence, and loyalty, making them one of India's most sought after breeds. Dog lovers are enamoured by the German shepherd's majestic appearance, intellect and guarding abilities. If you have decided or have recently become a German Shepherd's parent, you should be grateful to have such a loving and loyal companion who will stand by you no matter what in the years to come. However, parenting a German Shepherd is not an easy feat. Multiple factors need to be taken into consideration before you are confident that you will be able to provide for the needs of this dog. Parenting a German Shepherd is a highly gratifying affair, but the first step is choosing your puppy and caring for it. It needs to be planned out carefully to ensure that you and your dog spend all your days enjoying maximum satisfaction. This article will run you down through all the crucial decisions and actions that must be taken, starting from whether you should parent a German Shepherd, all the way to how you can care for your puppy. Is a German Shepherd is right for you? Before answering this question, it is imperative to check if parenting any German Shepherd is right for you to begin with. This breed is a very demanding one. It requires plentiful exercise to remain physically and mentally healthy. Without adequate playtime and activity, dogs of this breed can become destructive. So the question here is, do you have the facilities required to give your German shepherd this level of exercise? Do you have a yard, a park or a lawn near you where you can exercise your dog? Do you have the time to take them out on frequent walks? German Shepherds are usually suitable for people who engage in high-intensity sports such as running and bicycling. Will you be able to engage in such activities for the benefit of your dog as well as you? Similarly, German Shepherds are highly sociable animals and thrive in interactive environments. They need other dogs or people around them most of the time. Does your daily routine allow you to be near your dog for long periods of time? If you plan to leave your German shepherd at home for hours a day while you are working, this breed may not be suitable for you. Dogs of this breed are also prone to excessive shedding, and you need to be ready to find a lot of dog fur all around you. Being a large breed, feeding and taking care of these dogs are time and money intensive. They live long lives and can suffer from health problems too, and thus, caring for them can be an expensive affair. Thus, these are some of the questions that need to be answered to gauge whether a German Shepherd is indeed right for you to begin with. With these conditions in place, this breed may not be ideal for first-time dog parents. Coming to the type of German Shepherd that is right for you, this breed can be classified into two categories - work line type and show line type dogs. The differentiation is based on the heritage of the dogs of this breed and the purpose for which they were bred. Show lines were mainly bred for their look, colour and body type. Work Lines were primarily bred for their health and personality rather than to look a certain way. The line you choose depends on what you really want to be doing with your German shepherd. Work lines should be chosen if you seek a family pet or want some type of function to be performed because this type is known for its trainability, knowledge and skill. However, if you are more concerned with your dog's appearance, then going after show lines might be more appropriate. It must be mentioned, though, that it is possible to find show line dogs with the same characteristics as work line dogs and vice versa if they have been bred by individuals who are concerned with their appearance as well as health. Beyond work and show lines, age is another essential factor to consider. A good breeder would not offer puppies that are lesser than 8 weeks old as they still require their mother's milk as well as other social skills. Puppies who have received this from their mothers will be less likely to engage in destructive and unruly behaviour. First and foremost, verify that the puppy's parents have good health and desirable temperaments. Then examine the puppy in terms of health and hygiene by checking the eyes, ears, teeth, skin, coat, paws, etc. Study the gait of your puppy; it should be even. With German Shepherds, in particular, it is vital that you choose a pup that does not have undesirable traits. Visit the breeder at least four to five times before making a decision. Choosing a pup from the litter that is neither the timidest nor the most dominant would be wise if you want a bit of both traits. A German Shepherd puppy that is well built, energetic and sociable would be ideal. Next, to gauge the temperament of a puppy you want to select, you could perform a few simple tests, such as making eye contact with them. If they hold contact, it reflects confidence. It might be a sign of nervousness and anxiety if it looks away. Clapping your hands is another simple test. If the puppy runs away, it can be judged as timid, but it can signify that the pup wants to be friends if it approaches you. Similarly, other tests include calling the puppy to pet it, introducing it to a new toy, making a sudden noise, lifting the puppy and holding it above your head, or grabbing its paw. The reaction of puppies to such actions can provide much-needed insight into a puppy's temperament and help prospective dog parents make the right choice. On the one hand, if you prefer a dog that isn't prone to undermining your authority, it would be sensible to choose a moderately submissive puppy. On the other hand, if you want a dog for protection, it would be wise to choose a tough, trainable, and courageous puppy. After four to five visits, it would be possible for you to judge correctly - the personality and various character traits of the puppy you're interested in. As German Shepherds have highly individual personalities, you might bond more with one German Shepherd than the other. Lastly, before making a final decision, it is always good to ask the breeder for their opinion, as good breeders often have vital information about their puppies and can provide valuable insight into their characteristics and temperaments, thereby ensuring that you exactly find what you are looking for. Bringing Your German Shepherd Puppy Home Once you have established a rapport with a puppy and have made up your mind about becoming a dog parent, or a dog parent to another puppy, take a friend or companion with you who can help you clean up if your puppy is carsick. If you intend on making your puppy comfortable in a crate, give the crate to the breeder a few days before you bring the puppy home so that the breeder can help it acclimatize itself to the crate. The first day at home will be a traumatic experience for your puppy as it is away from its family. Thus, ensure that your puppy has a place to be comfortable and relaxed, with an adequate amount of food and water. It would be wise to spend some time exclusively with your puppy initially, such as an extended weekend plan so that your bond can grow. Be sure to collect your puppy's adoption contract and veterinary records. Furthermore, find out the exact kind of food that the breeder was giving the puppy you just adopted. Giving your pup entirely different food during the first few days can be traumatic for them. With their unfamiliar sights, smells, and sounds, your home and car can frighten your puppy, leading it to stress out and get anxious. Anticipate this and give your pup some time to adjust to the new environment. The first few days can be demanding as a dog parent because you need to adapt to changes in your schedule with the arrival of your puppy. Similarly, the puppy, too, can cry, whine or get overly affectionate, which can be regarded as coping mechanisms to deal with the sudden change in environment. During this time, make sure you don't scold your puppy or be overly affectionate either. Before bringing your newly adopted puppy home, it is essential for you to puppy-proof your home! Go down on all fours and check for sharp objects, hazardous materials, or any other dangerous substance that your puppy might end up chewing or swallowing. Cover your electrical outlets as well. Stock your home with food that your puppy has been eating while under the breeder's care. Keep an adequate amount of food and water, water bowls, treats, and grooming tools such as brushes, shampoos for puppies and nail clippers. Cleaning detergent for stains and smells will also come in handy in case of any accidents. Decide on that area of the house that will be where your puppy spends most of its time. This step is crucial as constantly changing your puppy's place can lead to disruptive sleep patterns and cause stress. German Shepherds, being extremely active, will tend to run across your halls, and in such cases, an accident or two are bound to happen. In such cases, it would be a good idea to restrict your dog's movements to areas that can be cleaned easily. Furthermore, German Shepherds have sharp claws and can ruin expensive hardwood floors, so it would be wise to keep them away from such flooring. As mentioned previously, your puppy will be nervous during the first few days. Frequent bathroom breaks will be a necessity for your pup, and thus, keep an area designated just for this purpose. Also, let your dog run around the house and acquaint itself with its surroundings. If your dog is chewing or biting furniture in a puppy-proofed home, you could offer a toy as a distraction. If you have children, teach them how to properly handle your puppy without being too rough. If you have other pets, give your pup a chance to meet and acknowledge them. Be careful while introducing your puppy to other puppies and grown dogs. However, most dogs are not aggressive with puppies, so it is doubtful that you will face problems on this front. Between eight and sixteen weeks of age, Puppies require plenty of clean water to drink and many meals a day. They also have small bladders and hence, will urinate often. Since they expend a lot of energy during the day, they will take several naps. It would be recommended to begin a daily routine for your pup and stick to it. Since German Shepherds require a lot of physical activity, taking them out in the mornings and evenings for an adequate amount of time religiously would be necessary. The faster you get your pup accustomed to a routine, the more beneficial it is to better sleeping schedules and better mental and physical health. When you begin house training your dog, be sure to praise them when they relieve themselves in designated areas but refrain from punishing them if they fail to do so. Remember that your home is a new environment for them, and thus, it will take a while to house train them. Training Your German Shepherd Puppy. Training your dog from the day they come home is very important. Clear rules should be set that should not be broken. For example, if you do not want your dog to get on the bed, do not let them come on the bed ever. Allowing them sometimes and then not other times gets confusing for your dog, and they may not be able to learn the desired behaviour effectively. Training your puppy can be divided into two stages, each with different objectives. The first stage of training needs to take place when your pup is between eight to sixteen weeks of age. In this period, socialization, house training and crate training goals must be accomplished. The second stage of training needs to occur when your puppy is three months of age until about 9 months. The main objectives of this training phase are obedience training, impulse control, and recall. From 8 - 16 weeks Goal: Socialization German shepherds are very protective of their owners. This makes it essential to make them see that other individuals are not necessarily threats. This period is critical to expose your puppy to different people in non-threatening situations. This can help them grow more confident around strangers instead of becoming hostile. Socialization creates a strong foundation for the rest of your puppy's training. One example of socialization comes from the grooming requirements of this breed. German Shepherds need to be groomed regularly so that they don't shed a lot. Thus, introducing them to groomers at a young age and to tools like blow dryers and nail clippers can help achieve this goal of adapting to social environments. Furthermore, to improve their mental development, expose your puppy to new sights, sounds and smells to help their confidence improve. Goal: Crate Training Training your puppy to sleep or stay in a crate can be difficult at first as they might face separation anxiety. Crate training is necessary if you prefer sleeping alone or washing the utensils in the kitchen and need your puppy to stay in one place for a couple of minutes. Patience is key to achieving this goal. Help them get over their separation anxiety with the help of treats and toys. You can also use your crate for feeding purposes to help your pup get more acclimated to it. Goal: House Training A strict schedule can help get your dog house trained. When your pup is around 8 weeks old, it should be taken outside for a bathroom break every two hours or so. At 12 weeks, it should be taken every 3 hours and around 16 weeks, every 4 hours or so. Begin teaching your puppy how to eliminate on cue by looking for signs such as sniffing the floor or circling a particular spot, or going to an area where it has made a mess before. Using a command to push your puppy to go outside to relieve itself can be helpful. Remember to praise your pup when it obeys such actions. From 3 - 9 Months Goal: Obedience Training German Speherds are acutely intellectual and have a commendable work ethic. Training that has begun early and consistently can help your puppy's best traits and features emerge with time. Dogs of this breed are excellent at obeying commands, and you can begin this type of training by teaching basic commands such as stay, down, and up. They can even be trained to walk on a leash easily during this period. Goal: Recall When obedience training is done right, the goal of recalling or successfully calling your puppy to come to you becomes relatively easier. Achieving recall takes patience and practice. It should be done diligently and on a daily basis, using treats and toys as incentives. Achieving this goal can come in handy during emergency situations as well. Goal: Impulse Control German Shepherds are highly susceptible to boredom, often resulting in excessive and inappropriate chewing, barking, chasing, etc. They also have a tendency to chase down cars and even cats. Such impulses need to be controlled as they can otherwise lead to destructive and problematic behaviour. Training for impulse control simply means getting your puppy to pay attention to you when required. You can begin such type of training by getting your puppy to sit before eating or using commands during playtime, which makes them focus on your voice only. Treats and toys could be attractive incentives to encourage your pup to respond positively to commands. Feeding Your German Shepherd Puppy. Remember to follow the breeder's diet in the initial days and gradually change this diet to incorporate different foods. Milk should not be given to puppies at this age as it can cause diarrhoea. Puppies need to be given food rich in protein, calcium and fats as they are still growing. Their food needs to be higher in calories when compared to the food given to a grown dog. When you give your puppy a food bowl, give it a specific window of time to finish eating, such as 10 or 15 minutes. After this period, remove the bowl. This will help your pup understand that it has to eat during a specific period of time only, which is a valuable component of obedience training. Between 4 to 6 months of age, you can start feeding your puppy increased portions of food four times a day. Foods such as meat and vegetables would be ideal. Treats should only be resorted to during training and not as actual food for mealtimes. Make sure to never give leftover human food to puppies as they contain spices, salt, sugar and so on, which are very unhealthy for dogs. FAQs: Are german shepherd puppies hard to take care of? Not just german shepherds, all puppies are hard to take care of initially. This is because it is exactly like getting a newborn baby home. There will be sleepless nights, vet visits, training, creating and sticking to routines and so on. However, these efforts will eventually pay off, because once your pup is trained, they will be socialized and can adapt to your lifestyle easily. How many times should a german shepherd puppy eat a day? For up to four months, puppies should be fed three to four times a day. Post this period, gradually reduce the number of times your pup is fed. After eight to nine months, two meals a day will suffice. Where should my german shepherd sleep? German shepherds are highly sociable animals and should not be left alone for too long. Puppies should be trained to sleep in a crate or share the bed with you if you so desire. As they grow older, they can be allowed to sleep in a crate, or in an area specially designed for them. What are the best foods for german shepherd puppies? Like other puppies, they too require meals that are high in protein, grain-free, rich in good quality fats without any chemicals, artificial additives etc. Is it okay to feed a german Shephard 3 times a day? Up to eight to nine months of age, it is okay to feed your German Shepherd three times a day. However, feeding them twice a day is more than enough beyond this age. The amount of food ultimately depends on your dog's age, size, weight, and levels of physical activity. When do german shepherd puppies stop biting and jumping? It is perfectly normal for your puppy to constantly bite, chew, or jump for the first four to six months. However, while teething is normal, you must redirect your puppy to chew on toys and other things that are appropriate instead of household furniture. Do not wait to think issues will be resolved after months. Get professional help from day 1 to teach your pup the right behaviours. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Since German shepherds are large, active dogs and are known to have hips that give out, it's important to make sure they have good nutrition throughout their lives. Make sure to buy healthy food that is not full of filler ingredients. For example, make sure you are feeding a quality food that contains animal protein and doesn't use corn for protein. You can feed your German shepherd dry or wet food, or a combination of both. If you choose to feed your German shepherd homemade meals, it's important to talk to your veterinarian about what they need to include. This will help ensure that the dog will get a balanced diet. Try to resist giving your dog table scraps, especially if it is begging for them. People food can be unhealthy for the dog and can impact its interest in its healthy food. As your dog ages, it will have different nutritional needs. Feed your dog a food that is designed for its specific age, such as a puppy food when it very young, an adult food when it is in middle age, and senior food when it is in old age. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source There are also specific formulas you may need to consider at some point, for example, special foods for large breeds or weight control food for overweight dogs. Talk to your vet about what food will work best for your dog. Because your vet will understand your specific dog's health issues, they may want it to get specific nutritional needs met. Instead, mix the foods together, gradually increasing the new food and decreasing the old food over the course of several weeks. Look at the packaging of the food to determine the suggested serving size. This should be based on the size and age of your dog. You can also talk to your veterinarian about how much they think your dog should be eating. It is best to divide your German shepherd's daily food into 2 or more smaller meals. Giving smaller meals helps to minimize the risk of bloat, which is a life-threatening swelling of the abdomen. Go to source When you feed your dog several times a day, your dog will need to relieve themselves shortly after each meal. Never exercise a German shepherd right after they eat since this could increase the risk of bloating. In addition to feeding it healthy food, the snacks you feed your German shepherd can have an impact on its health. Pick low calorie treats that are satisfying for dogs, including crunchy vegetables and kibble in a feeding toy that slows the dog's consumption down. Dogs can drink a lot of water every day and it's important that they do to prevent dehydration. Fill up its bowl with clean water every day and leave it where your dog has access to it. Also, check up on the bowl throughout the day, if possible, to make sure there is plenty of water available. However, German shepherds should drink small amounts of water throughout the day, instead of drinking a large amount at one time. Gradually hydrating throughout the day will ensure that the dog doesn't get bloat. Dehydration can be a threat to your dog's health. Signs that it might be dehydrated and needs more water include excessive panting, loss of appetite, and dry nose or gums. If you see these symptoms, give your dog water immediately. Go to source Advertisement. Let your pet enjoy a fun and interactive playing session with the help of some good dog toys. Here is a list of some of the most popular and affordable toys that are apt for large dogs. This dog food is easy to digest and is free from soy, eggs, dairy, red meat and more to give the right nutrition to your pet. This food is great for giving balanced nutrition to your pet without causing any disturbance in digestive health. Besides German Shepherds, you can use this pack of food to feed adult pugs, beagles, labradors, golden retrievers and more. This is a pack of dry dog food that is meant for dogs above the age of 18 months. Being apt for active dogs, this food can be used to feed most of the German Shepherds that are kept for security purposes and undergo training sessions regularly. If you are introducing this food to your pet dog, make sure that you refer to the feeding instructions given on the packaging to ensure the proper health of your pet dog. Besides German Shepherds, you can even feed this food to Dobermans, St. Bernards and more. Read more about German Shepherd dog food here. Purina Supercoat Adult Dry Dog Food If you have an adult German Shepherd at home, you can buy this pack of dry dog food to ensure a shiny and healthy coat for your pet. This food is a good source of proteins to make the muscles of your pet dog stronger. Regular consumption of this food can even ensure proper digestive health and a good immune system to keep your pet dog happy and healthy. This food is available in a tempting chicken flavour to easily attract your pet German Shepherd for the meal. Since it is free from artificial colours and flavours, you need not think too much before buying it online for your pet. If you are not sure about the quantity of food that is right for every serving, you can refer to the feeding instructions given on the packaging. Besides German Shepherds, you can even serve this food to puppies of other breeds as well. Also read:. We wanted to share our practical knowledge and experience in maintaining a German Shepherd in hot and humid Indian conditions. Remember, German Shepherds, are from Germany and thrive in colder conditions. The recommended temperature for a GSD is 30C or lower. Indian summers are much hotter and GSDs because of their beautiful double coat needs additional care. Can a German Shepherd survive in India? German Shepherd dog that we see in India adapts well to our hot and humid conditions with some help. Ensure that your dogs have access to clean water all the time. Feeding them chicken increases their hair fall and, in some cases, can cause skin allergies. Change your feeding schedule so that you feed your adult dog early in the morning and late evening. Your puppy will need more than two meals per day. Feed them cold Yogurt as it helps stay hydrated and also helps their digestion. You can also sprinkle cold water where your dogs sleep. German Shepherds love water, and your dog will appreciate a wet towel or a cool place to sleep. In India, GSDs shed during hot summer months. It will grow back. It is also natural for GSDs to sleep most of their day during hot summer days. Avoid intense exercises during the hot summer months. Ensure your dog is not stressed. A walk after sundown should be sufficient. Avoid excessive bathing of your dog. Most Indians of guilty of over bathing their GSDs during hot summer days. Over bathing will result in poor skin and hair health. Please avoid it. These dogs require high quality, protein-rich food for them to reach full potential. We recommend well-cooked homemade dog food or a commercially made dog food. A BARF diet is natural for dogs. Studies show that dogs on raw food are healthy. However, if you look at the Indian context, it is better to avoid feeding raw food. For this reason, we recommend that your German Shepherd is better off on a cooked diet. Diet for a German Shepherd adult dog in India We recommend feeding your adult dog twice a day with a high-quality adult dog food. You can find specially formulated dry dog food for a German Shepherd adult dog. If you are planning to feed your dog homemade dog food, ensure that it has veggies and meat. We recommend red meat over chicken for your German Shepherd. Diet for a German Shepherd puppy in India A German Shepherd puppy, on the other hand, needs food much more frequently and in small quantities. A GSD puppy is a bundle of energy and requires frequent high-quality small meals during its development stage. For a GSD puppy, we recommend 5 to 6 meals daily until it reaches four months. For puppies between four and twelve months, 3 to 4 meals per day should fulfill their energy needs. Puppies are picky eaters and will not eat the same food. You need to learn to mix their diet. The following are an excellent choice for your German Shepherd. It includes comprehensive information about dog food and a review of popular dog food brands in India. Grooming a German Shepherd German Shepherd shed their hair regularly. Both long and medium coat German Shepherds have two layers of fur. The outer coat is long, coarse, and grain to the touch. The inner layer of fur is dense, soft, and water-resistant. Remember, if you are looking for a GSD, it takes effort and time to maintain their hair in good condition. Daily grooming is mandatory for this breed. Grooming also helps you to keep an eye on minor nicks and scratches. Without grooming, GSDs shedding will become unmanageable. In other words, they shed their coat entirely. During this time, you will notice excessive hair fall. German Shepherd bitches blow their coat after giving birth due to the stress that they endure. If you owned them, you would know that even GSD puppies enjoy playing in the water. Most novice GSD owners make the mistake of bathing their dogs frequently. Frequent bathing washes essential oil that the dog skin secrets. It results in dry-flaky skin and excessive hair fall. The recommended bathing frequency considering Indian conditions for a German Shepherd is 4 to 5 weeks. If your dog gets dirty, you can always use a wet towel to wipe clean the dirt. Using human shampoo on dogs is another frequent mistake made by novice dog owners in India. Never use a shampoo made for people on dogs. German Shepherd puppy care and essentials Before you decide on bringing home a German Shepherd puppy, it is crucial to understand the basics of puppy care. German Shepherd puppies are active, energetic, and are keen learners. A GSD puppy will bring happiness to your entire family if you take proper care. Puppies that are a few months old will feel lonely and insecure when it comes to your home for the first time. It is vital to select a place where the puppy can rest, hide from all the noise, and feel safe. Keeping the puppy close to you helps them feel safe and will give you and your family to bond with the puppy. Another advantage of keeping the puppy indoors is potty training. Because the puppy is indoors, you can monitor the puppy closely and take it outside for potty. Puppy essential 2 — Food The first six months of a German Shepherd puppy is the most crucial stage in its development. High-quality food, protein-rich food ensure proper growth and nourishment for the puppy. Feeding a high-quality puppy food should provide all the nutrients and vitamins that a puppy needs. Always consult with your vet before you feed any supplements to your puppy. Play helps the puppy build critical social skills, through play, a puppy learns its place in its pack, and play is also an excellent form of exercise. The only way a dog feels its world is through its mouth. Remember, German Shepherd puppies have sharp milk teeth and can break your skin during play. GSD puppies also love to bite your chase after you and bite your feet. These dogs have high prey-drive and enjoy chasing and biting anything that moves. Several first time GSD owners find managing a puppy tiresome. Remember, this is a high-energy working dog. GSD puppies are not your average lap dog. Puppy essential 4 — Training and socialization German Shepherds grow to become large dogs. Hence, proper socialization and training are mandatory for these dogs. We recommend positive reinforcement training for GSDs. Socialization is also essential for your dog. Introduce your puppy to friends and other household pets so that they can get accustomed to them. GSDs have one of the most powerful jaws in the doggie world. Constant and consistent leadership is critical for a positive and beautiful relationship with your dog. Puppy essential 5 — Veterinary care All dogs in India require veterinary attention and regular vaccination. Puppies are prone to the deadly Parvovirus. Rabies is another serious threat to dogs and people in India. Be sure to get your puppy vaccinated for rabies. However, even experienced mothers require assistance when it comes to nursing. It takes about 10 to 14 days for a newborn pup to open its eyes and another week to make sense of what it sees. Until the puppies become stronger and can find a nursing spot on their own, we recommend that you help smaller puppies to feed. After the initial two or three weeks, you can start a supplemental feed. You can soak it in lukewarm water of 30mins, mash it and feed it using a feeding bottle or spoon-feed it to your puppies. The foremost objective for breeding any dog breed should be to enhance or protect the breed. Breeding for greed and profit has damaged the quality of GSDs in India. Sadly, there are more breeders of profit than breeders of quality. Essential tips for breeding German Shepherds in India The stud male dog and bitch female dog should have completed two years of age. Your breeding pair should be healthy, with no illnesses or congenital disabilities birth-defects. Plan for one litter each year and not two. Breeding your dogs often will result in poor health. In some cases, the bitch might abandon its litter. Consult a veterinarian and have both the dogs checked for illnesses. Never breed a dog with no known pedigree. Ensure both dogs have the Kennel Club of India certification. Never choose a male or a female just because it looks beautiful. A pregnant and nursing dog requires specialized nutrition to support her litter. A pregnant dog needs a cool, comfortable, and distraction-free place to give birth and nurse her puppies. You will need to dedicate a month since the time puppies are born. Plan to employ a helper who can help during the first month. You need to download the puppy registration form from the KCI website, fill the form, pay the registration fees, and send it to the KCI office. Upon receipt of the form, a KCI representative will visit your home to verify the litter. Selling the puppies You can start looking for a new home for your puppies after 45 days. Remember to vaccinate and deworm puppies before sending them to their new home. You can advertise your litter in dogsindia. Let your local pet shop, friends, and family know about the litter. GSDs are popular dogs in India, depending on the city where you live in you should be able to find new homes for your puppies in a month or two. Fixing a price for your litter As a breeder of German Shepherd in India, we know the cost, time, and effort incurred by a breeder. If you are a first-time breeder with little reputation, you will not be able to sell your puppies for more than INR 20k. This fact is assuming that you have KCI registration for your puppies. Please read our post on dog prices in India. It has useful information about buying and selling dogs in India. You can use the information provided in our post to set a price for your litter. If your dogs are show dogs, you will be able to attract high-end buyers who will be willing to pay a premium. A lot depends on the reputation of your dogs. Most Indian buyers prefer a male pup. Male pups cost more than females due to demand. Finding a home for a female puppy will take longer, and you need to be patient. Remember, the cost of owning, maintaining, and breeding German Shepherds in India will exceed any income that you get from breeding them. Building a reputation will cost you more money. The bottom line is that breeding high-quality GSDs is not a profitable venture if you do it on a small scale. You should be looking to finding a home for your puppies than selling them. They are affectionate, loyal, and protective dogs. German Shepherds are a popular breed in India, and people are willing to pay a premium to get one. High demand often results in poor quality. Breeders of profit and puppy mills are keen on profits rather than on the health of the dog. The most important thing that you need before you buy a German Shepherd in India is patience. The average lifespan for a German Shepherd in India is 9 to 12 years. Never rush into a decision because you get a better offer or a cheaper deal. There is no cheap, high-quality German Shepherd. Breeding and maintaining GSDs is expensive, and no breeder who cares about his dogs will sell his dog for cheap. Prior experience with dogs The most vital precondition is prior experience with dogs. If you are a first-time dog owner, then GSD is not the right dog for you. You will find GSDs unmanageable, and when they grow up, you will have an uncontrollable large dog. Time, space, and money German Shepherds are from Germany and are a non-native breed of dog. These dogs are high-energy, high prey-drive herding dogs that live in a much cold climate than ours. All of these factors mean you need time to take care of them, space for them to play and exercise, and money for food, vet, and other expenses. A German Shepherd is a high maintenance dog. They are a delight to people who love them and have experience with dogs. However, first-time dog owners will find a German Shepherd too much to handle. A full-grown male German Shepherd will weigh over 35kg and has one of the most powerful jaws among all domestic dog breeds. A German Shepherd can easily push a child or an older person down. GSD hair can also cause allergies to people. Only a dog-loving family can provide the care that these dogs need. Choosing the right breeder Getting your puppy directly from the right breeder has several benefits. We recommend that you get your GSD puppy directly from a breeder. Preferably from a breeder who has both parent dogs. Never buy a GSD from a pet shop or a broker. A good broker will take you to the breeder directly. A good breeder is open and will willingly share information about their dogs and their pedigree and health. Most good breeders will provide reliable references who can vouch for the quality of their dogs. A good breeder generally has other sources of income. Most of them have GSDs because they love them and not because they can make money out of them. A good breeder will not haggle. They generally have a fixed price and are confident about the quality of their dogs. Choosing the right puppy Most German Shepherd breeders will select a puppy for you. After your initial discussion with them, they can accurately match a puppy to you. After you choose the right breeder, we recommend that you leave the choice of selecting the right puppy to the breeder. They know their dogs enough to make the right choice for you. Any puppy from the right breeder will be worth your money. Most Indians incorrectly assume the first few pups of a litter are the best. The truth is, no one can accurately determine how a puppy will look or behave when it matures. Sometimes it is the smallest and the weakest of a litter that turns out to be a champion. Typical pitfalls to avoid Never get a GSD from a pet shop or a broker who cannot take you to the breeder. Never buy from a breeder of profit whose sole aim is profit. Quality comes at a cost. If someone is quoting less than an average price for a GSD, stay away. People forge KCI certificates or use certificates from a different litter. Never pay anyone online who promises to ship the puppy to you. Choose a breeder in your state or city whom you can visit. The total cost of ownership — German Shepherd in India Item. Small Pets How to take care of a German shepherd dog? German shepherd is an extremely affectionate and devoted breed that requires its master to reciprocate all the love and care. All German shepherd dog owners and those who are contemplating to adopt one must be mindful of a few tips that will help in a healthy and wholesome lifestyle for the pet dog. Therefore it is always a good idea to find out about the credentials of the breeder. Train your GSD: Train your four legged pal so that it will listen to your instructions and accept you willingly as the pack leader. Obedience training is more effective when the dog is still very young. Exercise is crucial to the existence of a German shepherd: It is advisable to make the dog exercise for at least a total of 45 minutes each day. This muscular breed was traditionally bred as a work dog and if left idle will often find a negative channel to expel all the pent-up energy. Therefore one must take the dog for a walk a couple of times daily, along with other exercise. But it is very important to note that over exercising a puppy will lead to it developing in an improper way. Hence do not over do the physical activity regime when a dog is young. GSD is a large breed that requires a big expanse to run around and gallivant. Pooch parents can visit dog friendly parks where the canine is entitled to open spaces and also gets a chance to befriend other dogs that are present. What to feed a German shepherd and how much? It is advisable to feed the dog twice a day. An adult will weigh between 60 to 90 pounds. Stay Amazed!! The early change over to adult food in GSDs is done to avoid rapid abnormal growth in large breeds. As per the standards set by the Association of American Feed Control, commercial food for this breed must contain 18 percent protein and 5 percent fat for adults and 22 percent protein along with 8 percent fat for puppies and lactating bitches. The first ingredient of the dog food must be protein such as poultry, fish or any other form of whole meat. Care must be taken that the dog food is free of corn as a source of protein as it is not easily digestible. Long haired German shepherds need to cool down: India is a tropical country. Whether short or long haired, German shepherds in general are fond of drinking water, thus a bowl full of clean drinking water must be accessible to the pooch at all times. Grooming and regular visits to the vet: Bathe your furry buddy once a month. The shepherd can be taken to a grooming parlor or given a bath at home. This way the doctor is able to detect ear infections that your beloved may be suffering from. Arm Your Dogs before the Spring! Regular visits to the animal doc will ensure your four legged family member gets all the vaccinations timely. Also appropriate de-worming medications will be provided to the dog to be consumed on a monthly basis. This will avert your furry pal from getting worms. In case the dog is tested positive for worms, then a suitable medication will be administered for effective treatment. About Petsworld Team The blog editor of Pets World is a pet aficionado and fervently follows her pet-obsession. A pet parent to animals big and small for the past two decades. The sum of all experiences gathered is an amalgamation of useful knowledge and research. More like this.

Go for something short, one or two syllables long. It is easier for dogs to learn short names, which means that they will recognize their name more easily. If you want to give your dog a long and complicated name, then remember that you will need a nickname for daily use. Considering it is the nickname that you will be using most and that they will recognize, make sure to give that careful consideration alongside their full name. Avoid tongue twisters. Moreover, as any human with a hard name to pronounce will know, it gets pretty annoying to have to correct people all the time. Consider choosing something that starts with a sibilant consonant or blend, such as an S or a SH, or a hard commanding consonant like a K or C. This helps your distinguish their name from the ambient noise. Avoid names that sound too much like commands that you will use regularly, as this can just confuse your pup. So, if it sounds too much like a command that you use regularly, such as sit or stay, they may confuse the two. Be a little bit wary of going for anything that is too trendy. Remember that trends change quickly, but your pup might be with you for 15 years. For example, if you decide to name your dog after a celebrity, go for something classic, like Elvis, rather than someone new. You never know what the person might do next, which could leave you regretting your dog name choice. You can draw inspiration from the way that your dog looks. What size are they? What color? What breed? Do they have a funny shape or any distinguishing features like floppy ears or an extra long tail? Do they have interesting markings? These can all be a great starting point for choosing a name that suits. Teach Your Dog Their Name Once you have chosen a dog name, you need to teach your dog to recognize it. Otherwise, how else will they identify this special sound with themselves? Training your dog to recognize their name is pretty much like any other kind of training. You show the response that you want to the word, and when they give it, positively reinforce the behavior with some kind of treat edible, praise, or play. So, the first step is to familiarize your dog with their name. Start with five-minute training sessions daily in which you have your dog in an attentive situation and then say their name. When they respond to you, give them a treat. Repeat this several times over a couple of minutes every day for a few weeks. Take them out on the leash even if it is only into the yard and let them explore. Then call their name. If they turn and give you their attention, great, reward them with a treat. When they do turn, you can say their name again, and then reward them for their response. With this kind of training, your dog will learn to associate their name with good things, and will always want to give you their attention. Wrapping Up Choosing the perfect name that your dog will use for life is a pretty big decision. It needs to suit them, and it needs to be something that everyone in the family is happy to use on a daily basis. It is worth putting in the effort to get it right. Sometimes inspiration hits quickly, and you just need to double check the name for any unexpected pitfalls, such as being a word that your dog may confuse with other confusing commands. Sometimes the problem is finding agreement among family members. When you are struggling to find a name, the best thing that you can do is expose yourself to as many names as possible, as you are increasing your chances of coming across one that feels right. We named our most recent male dog Downey after the actor Robert Downey Jr. Why Downey? Because he came from the Avengers litter and his litter name was originally Iron Man, thus Downey! How about you guys? Did you choose a name for your dog? Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Learn how your comment data is processed. Keep in touch. More names for Labrador dogs How to choose names for Labrador Retrievers As with any dog breed, choosing the right name will depend on the character and personality of the individual dog. However, we can look at some of the characteristics particular to Labrador Retrievers which can help us to decide on a Lab name. Labrador Retrievers need a medium amount of physical exercise , but they can be either quite laidback or energetic. They usually get more calm as they age. In terms of personality, you can't get a more relaxed and happy dog. Their easygoing nature is one of the main reasons they are such as popular dog and perfect for almost any type of family. For many people, they are the epitome of a domestic dog in terms of character and behavior. They are also one of the best dog breeds for families with children. Most Labrador Retrievers tend to be very friendly, but they won't be overly demanding of attention. This doesn't mean you can't ignore giving them attention. If we do this with any dog breed, even a Labrador Retriever, it will lead to behavioral problems and an unhappy dog. Just because they are sweet and loyal, doesn't mean they are not intelligent. They are a very smart dog breed who love to be trained and will respond well to commands. Now we know something about Labrador Retrievers, we can think about choosing a suitable name which reflects their personality. This is especially true for Labrador Retriever puppies who love to play and are very excitable. They are very cute, so choosing a cute Labrador Retriever name might be a good idea. They are also very happy dogs, so choosing a funny Labrador name might be the best option for your dog. Labrador Retriever name tips A name for a Labrador Retriever shouldn't be too short monosyllabic or too long not more than three syllables. Moreover, the pronunciation of the name should not be easily confused with any training basic orders. Nor should it be confused with a word which we commonly use in the house such as another family member's name. For example, don't call your dog Fran if you already have a Frank in the house. Keeping such considerations in mind, here are a few tips that will allow you to choose a suitable name for your Labrador Retriever: Choose a name that refers to the physical characteristics or personality of your dog. Choose a name that's completely opposite to the physical or behavioral characteristics of your dog. Choose a name which reflects your interests. For example, if you are a big sci-fi fan, choosing a Star Wars name for Labrador Retrievers might be for you. Although you can choose a funny Labrador Retriever name, it shouldn't be something you will get bored of. Neither should it be something offensive as you will need to call it when in public. Names for female Labrador Retrievers You will see that some of these female Labrador names are also unisex, but the idea is to get inspiration. This way you can see our list and choose the right name for your Labrador Retriever: Akita. You'll be calling your dog this name for many years to come, so be sure to pick something you love. But where to begin? The loving and gregarious Labrador Retriever has maintained the top spot as the most popular dog breed in the United States for three decades, and it comes as no surprise to Lab lovers. Labrador Retrievers are a Canadian breed. They were developed in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, a coastal region on the Eastern side of Canada. Here, Labrador Retrievers were used to retrieve ducks for hunters and to assist fisherman. Labs today are still invaluable retrievers of waterfowl, as well as ideal pets. Labrador Retrievers appear in solid colors of yellow, black or chocolate, with no markings. With its coal-black, glossy coat, the black Lab is especially striking and elegant. Gentle with children, easily trained, and a friend to all, Labrador Retrievers are famous for being excellent family dogs. They love to run and play and are always up for an adventure. They get along with other animals and humans alike. If you think Labrador Retrievers are top dog among all breeds, hundreds of thousands of dog lovers around the world agree with you. You can go in many different ways when choosing a name. Popular dog names are always a good choice, as are more unusual choices. Top Black Lab Names Let's take a look at some favorite black Lab names pulled from different categories. Some of the best names for black Labs include: Captain. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. They are ideal family pooches and revered as such, but they are also used for work, such as hunting companions and service animals. With all these remarkable traits, naming your Labrador puppy can be an overwhelming task indeed! How to Name Your Labrador Retriever Image Credit: Jaromir Chalabala, Shutterstock Naming a new puppy can be difficult, and with a dog like a Labrador that is so full of personality, looks, and energy, there are a ton of potentially perfect names. Gender may be a large factor in naming your pooch , along with their appearance, but in any case, a Lab deserves a more unique name than Spot! A name with one or two syllables is best, especially for training, but more elaborate names can easily be shortened to cute nicknames! Female Labrador Names Image Credit: Linn Currie, Shutterstock If you are lucky enough to be the proud new parent of a female Lab, you want a name that not only honors her femininity but also her unique character and sweet, gentle temperament. You can find more name suggestions based on popular dog names here. While there are no specific, set-in-stone rules, some of this advice might help you narrow down your choices and settle on the right name for your pup. Rather than understanding specific words and phrases, dogs learn to associate sounds with things. This means they will learn to associate the sound of their name with them! You can make this easier on your dog by keeping their name short—no more than one or two syllables. This will make it easier for them to recognize their name and distinguish it from all the rest of the background noise in life. Consider Using Nicknames If you want to give your dog a longer, quirkier name, consider how you are going to abbreviate it. It is best to consider this from the beginning. They will also need to learn important commands such as sit, stay, leave it, and fetch. So, when choosing a name, try to avoid names that sound too much like these important commands so that your dog never gets confused. Dogs find it easier to distinguish sibilant or blend consonants, such as S or SH, or something hard and commanding like K or C. For example, names like Carl, Simon, or Shelly are all good choices, as they start with consonants that are easy to differentiate from background noise. While it might seem funny at the time, you may come to regret it later. Now, imagine your kid, or a young dog walker, having to do the same. The process of teaching a dog their name is the same as teaching them other commands. However, you are teaching them that the response that you want from their name is their attention rather than a specific gesture or action. Use the same process of positive reinforcement to teach them to stop what they are doing and look at you when you say their name. Avoid using any kind of punishment when training your dog, especially when you are teaching them to recognize their name. This can result in negative associations, and that is the last thing you want them to have when it comes to their own name. Start with short micro training sessions daily just 5 to 10 minutes or so during which you have your dog in an attentive situation, and then say their name. When they respond to you, give them a treat. Take them out on the leash even if it is only into the backyard , and let them explore. Then, while walking your dog, call their name. When they do turn towards you, you can say their name again and then reward them for their response. With this kind of reward-based training, your dog will quickly learn to associate their name with good things, and they will always want to give you their attention. While it can be confusing for dogs to have their name changed, there is nothing wrong with renaming a dog when you bring them home. While older dogs will take longer to grow accustomed to the change, a new name can actually help them bond with you, especially if they came from an unhappy living situation. Can you give dogs human names? Some trainers recommend not giving dogs human names. This is because it contributes to our tendency to anthropomorphize dogs. However, this is more a problem with owner attitudes than dog names, and there is no reason not to give your dog a human name as long as you raise them with the right outlook. The Verdict Choosing the perfect name for your dog is a big responsibility, and it can be hard to settle on one that suits your dog just right. Hopefully, you have found some inspiration on this list. While there are no particular rules for choosing a name, there are some principles of good practice to follow. Do you have any suggestions for great yellow Lab names? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist.

Why Is My Dog Shaking? Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, but when they start shaking, it can be a cause for concern for pet owners. Shaking in dogs can be a sign of various issues, from dog anxiety and dog fear to dog medical conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of a dog shaking and what pet owners can do to identify and treat the problem. We will also offer tips for preventing dog shaking and ensuring.By doing regular grooming at home, you can help your dog look its best between visits to the groomer. You also get to bond more closely and build stronger trust with your dog. Routine grooming sessions will keep your dog clean and feeling fresh, but it will also.Their personality is lively, their nature fun-loving, and their disposition affectionate. As even-tempered, sweet, and playful dogs, Pugs make wonderful playmates for kids of all ages and lovely companion pets for couples, singles, and seniors. These little joy bringers love to cuddle and are generous with their Pug love. When it comes to their family, Pugs attach like magnets. They are known to happily shadow their humans in every activity and are just as happy lazing on the couch all day as they are going for a long evening stroll around the neighborhood. Pugs for Sale in New Mexico. Pugs for adoption in the Alliance, Nebraska area come with a year health guarantee. Pugs are true joy bringers from the moment they are born. Learn more puppies available certified breeders Transportation Location Color. If you are unable to find your Pug. Find your Pug puppy for sale in Nebraska. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. Your puppy will arrive healthy and well socialized, covered by our two year health guarantee. Miller Clan Pugs. If you are unable to find your Pug puppy in. 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Pug Partners of Nebraska is a c3, non-profit organization comprised of dedicated volunteers who are committed to rescuing and re-homing pugs in need. Find Pug puppies for sale Near Omaha, NE Smart and playful with a short muzzle and expressive eyes, the Pug's low-key lifestyle makes them perfect city dogs. Spring Pug Puppies! Tom: Purple; Jerry: Green. Because all breeding programs are different, you may find. Fill in all the form information as required and submit your form. Breeders that have been breeding puppies for a long time are more trustworthy. We believe that all pugs deserve a chance to be loved and to love a human companion. AKC proudly supports dedicated and responsible breeders. In many cases, owners are unaware that their dogs have eaten a leftover joint until they begin showing signs of toxicity. Despite their tiny size, they have the biggest hearts. Our beautiful Pugs are raised with the utmost care by our licensed and responsible breeders. These pups are in Omaha, Nebraska too! Below are our newest added Pugs available for adoption in Omaha, Nebraska. Columbus, NE gay. We are a small, pure bred pug dog kennel. Because all breeding programs are different, you may find dogs for sale outside that price range. Pug puppies and dogs in Lincoln, Nebraska. Known for its signature smooshed face, the Pug is a calm yet sociable breed. We encourage all prospective puppy owners to do their research and be prepared with questions to ask the breeder. Use the search tool below to browse adoptable Pug puppies and adult Pug in Fremont, Nebraska. Pug puppies and dogs in Papillion, Nebraska. For out-of-state customers, we have nationwide delivery options tailored to every need. Use the search tool below to browse adoptable Pug puppies and adult Pug in Lexington, Nebraska. Mini Pugs generally live for years on average. Will someone give the puppy enough attention at all times? If yes, then reach out to Pug Puppy For Sale today! With over 30 years of experience in breeding high-quality Boston Terrier pups, we offer our valued customers with puppies for sale in Nebraska. Puppies for Sale in Nebraska. Get along well with other animals and children. If you are unable to find your Pug puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Pug Dogs for Adoption. Pug Puppies For Sale. Pug Puppies for Sale in Maine. These breeders breed puppies for the love of dogs, and not to make money. Top Pug Puppy Breeders in .Pug puppies and dogs in Fremont, Nebraska. Pug For Sale in Nebraska .We are accepting deposits to hold your selected puppy until the shipping date. Location: Scottsbluff, NE .Make sure you are not only choosing the right breed for you, but also that you're getting it from the right individual. Pug puppy for sale in Nebraska. Pug Puppies for Sale in Nebraska. Pug puppies and dogs in Lexington, Nebraska. All have had their first vaccination and been de wormed Not KC registered - companion animal only Parents on site Ready to go to their new. A fully-grown Chug tends to stand inches tall and weighs pounds. Even then, owners might not understand what is ailing their pets. Pug puppies for sale in Nebraska with Price. Prices for Pug puppies for sale in Omaha, NE vary by breeder and individual puppy. Pugs for adoption in the Lincoln, Nebraska area come with a year health guarantee. Find dogs and puppies from Nebraska breeders. They pug puppies are all healthy, playful and well socialized. North's Nitro Pugs in Nebraska. Make sure that you make all the efforts needed to identify if the breeder you are dealing with is a legitimate breeder and not running a puppy mill. They are up to date on their shots of. Also, never buy a Pug puppy without visiting the kennel where the Pug puppy was raised to make sure the puppy was raised in a healthy environment. Pug Puppy Breeders in .They are quite friendly, and nothing can stand in the way. We cherish all of our animals and enjoy sharing the love of Pugs with other individuals and families! Sue Scott was in a panic when her 9-month-old fawn pug, Circe, collapsed after a recent walk. Pugs Available for Adoption Interested in applying for one of these pugs? We are currently pre-screening potential applicants before they fill out our full adoption. AKC proudly supports dedicated. They crave attention from their owners, and also love to take a good nap when needed. Goldendoodle, Colorado » Elbert Adorable outstanding Pug puppies Veronica Adorable outstanding Pug puppies ready for their new and forever lovely home. The American Heart Institute: Pet ownership can help your heart! For more information about a specific puppy please call .The favourite dog breed in Nebraska is the Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier. Pug Partners of Nebraska — Non. Pug puppies for sale in Omaha, NE from trusted breeders. Once the companions of Chinese royalty, their distinct faces are complemented by sweet demeanors. They are up to date on their shots of vaccines and they will come Pug Nebraska beautiful male and female pug Nebraska, Scottsbluff, Pet Price: Ask Beautiful male and female Pug Puppies. Current on shots and dewormings registered and are ready to go to their new homes. What colors do Pugs come in? Pugs come in three main colors: fawn most common type , black, and apricot. They are very good quality puppies that we raise. These dogs love to play and have fun, and don't mind the occasional mischievous act. Pug Breeders in Nebraska with Puppies for Sale. Find Pug puppies for sale Near Nebraska Smart and playful with a short muzzle and expressive eyes, the Pug's low-key lifestyle makes them perfect city dogs. Please call ahead for an appointment to meet our canine and human family! The puppies and their parents receive the best care with regular grooming. There are also silver, brindle, and the genetically-modified white pugs. Pug and Cocker Spaniel puppies for sale. If you feel one of these pugs is the perfect fit for your family, please email kristi pugpartners. Pugs will almost always have a black mask. Kennel Name: Diamond Pug Kennel. We only breed our females pugs every other heat cycle to ensure healthy pug puppies. Life Span Did You Know? The Pug, or Pug Dog, is famous for its flat-faced appearance and large, soulful eyes. They are an ancient dog breed that originated in China over 2, years ago. They were originally developed as a refined pet of Chinese royalty along with the Pekingese and the Shih Tzu. During this time, the Pug was considered a national treasure that outsiders could only access if one was gifted to them. Dutch traders from the s can be credited with bringing the Pug onto the world stage when they brought some back to Europe with them. The Pug made its way to the United States in the s. Now, the Pug is a popular dog breed worldwide. They are a popular companion that provides their owners with plenty of love and laughter from their comedic and playful antics. The Pug is a playful and outgoing dog breed with a charming personality. They tend to be very loving towards children and also get along well with other pets and dogs. They are a companion breed at heart known for their gentle nature and sociable personality. They love to give love and receive it in return. Their sensitive nature makes them intuitive as well and Pugs will often sense the moods of their owners and react accordingly. They crave attention and affection from their owners and are big fans of napping. This dog breed is often described as an ideal house dog and they are moderately adaptable. They will do well in homes of any size, including apartments. The Pug also adapts well to city or country life and are a good fit for singles or families of any size. Although they are highly adaptable to various living situations, they are less adaptable to climates. Pugs are very sensitive to the heat and overexertion, so they are best-suited to moderate climates. They also love to be with their families and will not be happy if left alone for a long time. As with any dog breed, the Pug has some health conditions to be aware of. In particular, corneal ulcers and dry eye are some potential eye problems that can occur. Additionally, Pugs can be susceptible to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and encephalitis. Asking the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and to see health clearances can help allay concerns for some of these health issues. Pugs are also big foodies. They love to eat! Their love for food means this dog breed is prone to obesity. As a brachycephalic dog, their large head and short snout often cause respiratory problems, which can limit their exercise at times and contribute to weight gain. This will cause them to quickly gasp and snort, which can sound relatively alarming. These episodes are usually not harmful as your Pug is just clearing their palate and throat. The Pug tends to be easy to train and is a good fit for owners of any experience level. They are eager to please their owners and tend to pick up on commands quickly. They are sensitive souls and their feelings can be hurt easily, so they will not respond well to harsh corrections. This dog breed responds best to consistent training that focuses on positive rewards and will benefit from participation in puppy training classes. Pugs have a smooth, glossy, and short coat. Their fur is fine and soft. Although their coat is generally low-maintenance, it will shed throughout the year. Aside from brushing, Pugs only need occasional baths on an as-needed basis. Because Pugs have ears that drop down, they can be susceptible to moisture, dirt, or debris. Checking their ears regularly and cleaning as needed helps to keep them healthy and comfortable. The same goes for their iconic face wrinkles. Daily brushing is ideal, but if your Pug is not allowing you to do that, a few times a week should be sufficient. Getting your Pug used to these grooming tasks as a puppy will help make it a positive bonding experience and a much easier process throughout their life. This dog breed has a low to moderate energy level. Generally, daily walks and some play sessions are enough exercise for this dog breed. They may have short bursts of energy as they have a very playful nature, but they will tire easily. Some Pugs can handle a little more activity and even compete in some dogs sports like agility, rally, and obedience. Make sure you check with your vet first before jumping into dog sports with your dog. A full-grown Pug will usually stand 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 14 and 18 pounds. This dog breed generally lives for years. The Pug was a popular pet of the Buddhist monasteries in Tibet. Featured Pug Article. Dog Skills: Selective This information is 17 minutes old and may not represent all of the animals at the Nebraska Humane Society. People describe me as affectionate - I'm cuddly, lovable, and I like to snuggle. I am bit nervous at first, but once I warm up, I'll be your best friend. I'm a typical herding breed that is highly intelligent and athletic. I may show some herding instincts, which tend come out with things running around. For that reason, I may do better in a home with children over the age of .If you're an active family looking for a dog to do fun activities with, I'm your guy! My education has been a little lacking, but I'm ready to learn. I'm searching for an adopter who is ready to put the time into teaching me. I am not the biggest fan of cats so I will need to go to a home without them. I need to meet all family members, including any resident dogs, before going to my forever home to make sure I can fit right into the family! Dax is available on a first come, first served basis. To meet this pet, please come to the shelter during adoption hours, fill out a survey with your information, and then you'll meet with an adoption coordinator who will introduce you. To save time you can fill out an adoption survey by clicking here.

Companion Labradors Our started trained family companion Labrador Retriever puppies will make an excellent addition to your home. Husband and wife owners and head trainers Steve Koven and Jean Damon have been training dogs and working with dog owners for over 20 years. Our business is family-run; raising and training dogs is our full-time occupation. We are located in Huntingdon, Tennessee. We do not believe in cookie-cutter dog training. Each puppy is hand-picked for temperament from high-quality AKC registered bloodlines from breeders in our area. Our goal is to provide the highest quality of training for each individual puppy. All the parents have been DNA tested via Embark or similar genetic screening test to ensure the pups are healthy. Our companion dog training covers behavior and social skills with people and other dogs, crate training, and obedience. The obedience training covers all commands on and off-leash. Training starts as soon as we pick up the pups from their breeders. They go through a thorough training regimen for 12 weeks, and graduate the family companion program at around 6 months of age, when they will be ready to interface with their new owners. For the twelve weeks that our pups are in training, we are with them all day, every day; caring for them, training them, playing with them. The pups have training school 6 days a week, and we get a 4 hour break on the 7th day. Then for the next three weeks, we are individually interfacing each puppy with the new family, one pup every day, while continuing to train and look after the rest of the class. Top training and care for the entire time the pups are here. Please note that these pups are NOT service dogs. They are meant to be wonderful pets and companions for the family. Listed below are the commands that we cover. This means that having a well-trained dog requires consistent reinforcement of commands and good behavior. It is imperative that you, as the new dog owner s , continue to exercise your new family member daily, as well as routine obedience workouts times a week, and always follow up on your commands. Because of the amount of training already done with our dogs, this will be relatively easy for you to accomplish. On your scheduled pick-up day, you and your family will spend the day at our facility in Huntingdon interfacing with your new best friend, learning how to work with and train your dog. We are located roughly 2. The most common way clients arrange their interface day and get their pups back home is to drive both ways. There are hotels in our area. Another option to save a little travel time is to fly here, rent a vehicle, and drive back home with their pup. Upon completion of this program, you will receive a certificate of completion of training for obedience, as well as all your training gear. You will receive a 6 ft leather lead, training collar, nylon choker, and light lines to continue your off-leash work. Returning clients who have purchased a trained Lab pup from us in the past and gone through the interface do not have to do so again. You have the option of either interfacing a second time for a refresher, or simply coming to pick up your pup and head back home, after going through the paperwork and getting the graduation picture taken. You will be taking home a high quality pup with everything done for you: crate-trained, current on vaccinations for the next year, and obedience trained; a calm, well-behaved dog ready to be integrated into your family. They are not to be bred. We highly recommend getting your pup spayed or neutered between 44 and 50 weeks of age. You can always count on us for any follow-up help or questions you may have. We thank all our clients across the country that have been as dedicated to dogs as we are, since .Please look through some examples of our family companion training. 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. Print Early obedience first step to better hunting dog Labrador puppies start out sweet and innocent. All you want to do is cuddle up with your pup and love them! And you should! But rest assured the innocence will not last. As your pup gains confidence and courage, they will begin to test you in many ways. That is why you must obedience train your Labrador puppy. Early obedience training is key to establishing borders and boundaries that will help your puppy grow, learn, and adjust with a good attitude. There is no shortcut to doing this, just use the name often when you talk to your puppy. Over time, the pup will start to respond to the name. Socialization, while not technically obedience training, is the single most important thing you can teach your puppy during the first few months of life. If you are not sure how to do this, refer to this post. Tools needed to obedience train Labrador puppy You will need a few tools to teach your puppy obedience. The products I recommend I believe are a good value or good investment for anyone working to train or maintain training on their retriever. When possible, I include links to the product. Some of these links may be Amazon or other affiliate links in which I am paid a small commission at no cost to you. All opinions and recommendations are my own. Collar — You should purchase a size appropriate collar for your new puppy. You may have to buy new ones as your dog grows, but it is important for your puppy to get used to wearing a collar early on. A simple nylon adjustable collar works great. Chain collar — If your puppy is more than a few months old, a chain or prong collar is extremely helpful in teaching obedience, but they must be used correctly. For more information on how to put a chain collar on your dog correctly refer to this video. A longer lead, called a check cord, is also useful for teaching HERE and retrieving. You can learn more about that here. Heeling stick optional — While optional, a heeling stick can be especially helpful in teaching basic obedience. Treats — Treats are good for teaching very young puppies. I use treats for pups under 12 weeks of age, but treats should be discontinued rather quickly. When to start basic puppy obedience training Obedience training can and should start within the first couple weeks of having your puppy home. Young puppies are ready and willing to learn and teaching obedience to a young puppy is much easier than teaching it to an older dog. How long should obedience sessions be? Most labs do not enjoy obedience training. For this reason, we aim to keep obedience sessions short, especially if your dog is under 4-months of age. Five to ten minutes of obedience a day can work wonders. Especially if you are consistent. Using rewards or praise to teach obedience Many people like to use treats or rewards for obedience training. And this can work, especially with very young dogs. But for hunting dogs, over the long-term treats can become a problem. We do not want our dogs, or the dogs we train to be obedient only because they are getting a food reward. We want them to be obedient because they understand their place in the family and respect the owners. To get these lasting results, we use praise words and petting and a reward that retrievers live for — retrieves! Well-timed praise is a particularly important part of dog training. A message that it is okay to ignore me the first 9 times! This simply means that after a few minutes of formal obedience training, we release the dog with an OKAY command and that means they can run around and be a dog. We then throw a bumper or plug a for the dog to retriever. We do this a few times with a lot of excitement and allow the dog to retrieve the bumper. For retriever breeds, this is often more effective than a food reward. Be careful that you are not letting your puppy get into bad habits with retrieving. For instance, if your puppy often goes out to retrieve the bumper but then runs away with it, or picks it up and drops it, do not continue doing retrieves. While retrieving is a reward for many Labs, it is not an excuse to engage in behaviors that are not going to be acceptable in the field. If you want to learn more about how to properly teach your Lab to retrieve, check out How can I teach my retriever puppy to fetch? Introduction to leash and nylon collar The very first step for any puppy obedience is to introduce your puppy to a regular collar and leash. This should be done in two separate steps, first the collar and then the leash. Introduce the collar by putting a nylon type collar on your puppy. This is normal and you should not react to it. Introducing the leash is a little different. We like to do this outside. After a few sessions of this introduction, you can start holding the leash by the end and walking with the puppy. When the puppy tries to run or walk away, hold tight to the leash, and just let the puppy get used to the resistance. Some puppies have a hard time with this and will growl or whine and whip themselves around at the pressure, but most will not. Remain calm and after a few sessions the puppy should get used to the resistance of the leash. Do not allow the puppy to pull you around. That will make for some bad behaviors that you will need to correct later. If you cannot control your puppy with just a regular collar and leash, you may need to move to a chain or prong collar to keep control. What commands to teach Lab puppy There are only four basic obedience commands that you need to teach your young puppy. Remember when it comes to commands, less is more. OKAY — this is a release command, basically tells your dog were done training, go be a dog. As your puppy grows and learns more, there are some other commands that may be needed, but for puppies I like to start with just the four above. Dog training requires consistency Before you start with obedience training, I want to make a note about the importance of consistency. Obedience training only works if you are consistent. This means that when you say a command, you expect the puppy to perform the command, and are willing to take steps to make the puppy perform the command. If you do not remain consistent in this expectation, you will confuse your dog and get poor results from your training. You and your family must be consistent! How to start obedience training Lab puppy The first command you want to start teaching your puppy is SIT. This is quite easy to teach with a small puppy but gets a little tougher as they get bigger. Then release the puppy with the OKAY command. Repeat this process several times, then stop. If your puppy is weeks old, you can repeat this training several times a day for only a couple minutes at a time. This will be a two-person job for a little while. The other person will put the food down a few feet from the puppy. Then release the puppy to eat saying OKAY. As the pup learns and understands the command better, you will no longer need a second person to hold the puppy. You must be a little careful here because young puppies do not have great bladder control and making them wait, even a few seconds, can mean the difference between an accident and them doing their business outside. But this is a great way to teach impulse control and manners to your puppy. I do not want to have to fight for a position by the door. You can usually start working on this within a week or two of teaching SIT. A great way to teach this command to young puppies is to use two people and sit in a long hallway, one at each end. Take turns calling your puppy with a HERE command. A toy or treat can often help the process. Let your puppy run around a bit but hold onto the end of the cord. Occasionally, call you puppy with a HERE command. It can be helpful at first to crouch down to encourage the puppy to run towards you. Then release the puppy with an OKAY command. Do this a few more times and repeat daily until the puppy is coming to you without you needing to pull the cord. It is also the command most of our clients struggle with the most. Mostly because they are using the wrong tool for the job. For heeling work, it is important that you work with a chain or prong collar. This will give you more control and stop the pulling and surging that many people struggle with. Using a chain or prong collar and a six-foot leash, start walking your puppy at your side. If your puppy is young, be sure to use a puppy chain collar which is smaller than chain collars for adult dogs. And make sure that you are putting it on correctly! An alternate tool to a chain collar and leash is the Wonder or Command Lead. These work great for teaching HEEL. As you start walking use gently tugs on the chain collar with the command HERE to keep your puppy at your side. If your puppy surges or pulls ahead, simply make a degree turn and start walking the other direction giving a sharp, upward tug on the chain collar and saying HEEL several times until the dog is back in a heeling position. Many of our clients have told us they never left their driveway the first few days! But if you are patient and consistent, your dog will quickly learn that if they want to go for a walk, they need to stay at your side. If you want to learn and progress in more obedience work, check out these obedience drills for retrievers. Final thoughts on how to teach your lab puppy obedience Teaching your puppy obedience may take a lot of patience, time and work, but it is such an important thing to do. You will never regret the time! A well-mannered dog is such a joy to be around both in the home and in the field. How to obedience train Labrador puppy. Click Here to Help Stofer's Labs make a difference in the lives of children! Sawyer has a fun, confident personality and loves to explore. He will make a wonderful, loyal family dog, therapy or service dog. Training price reflects a go home date of Sept 16th when he is 18 weeks old. She will make a wonderful, loyal family dog, therapy or service dog. She is doing well on her crate training, potty training and obedience training. Training price reflects a go home date of Sept 2nd when she is 28 weeks old. Training price reflects a go home date of Sept 3rd when she is 26 weeks old. Visit her in San Martin, Ca. Indy is the biggest male quite mellow and really white. Training price reflects a go home date of Sept 2nd when she is 23 weeks old. Training price reflects a go home date of Sept 2nd when he is 23 weeks old. Training price reflects a go home date of Aug 30th when she is 27 weeks old. Training price reflects a go home date of Sept 16th when she is 18 weeks old. 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Training price reflects a go home date of Aug 5th when she is 24 weeks old. Training price reflects a go home date of Aug 11th when he is .Print Raising a retriever puppy like the pros Your Labrador puppy can seem small and fragile during those first few weeks home from the breeder. Labrador puppies will learn quickly about acceptable and unacceptable behavior those first few weeks, if you, the owner, are willing to set and enforce boundaries. Here is the training you should be working on with your week-old Labrador puppy. About this series of posts This is post three of a step-by-step training and socialization program for Labrador puppies. If you read our first post , you know that this series follows our training of Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to raise and train her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. In this case, Bubba will be with us for almost a year and a half. Training and socialization for week-old Labrador puppy — week three home Your week-old puppy has been with your family for approximately 3 weeks now. This week you should start noticing some bigger changes with your puppy. Here are some of the changes I notice with Bubba. First, she is growing fast! Bubba is almost ready for a new collar already. I have loosened her current collar twice, and there is no more room to expand it. She is also learning a lot. Bubba is also becoming more personable. She likes and has more interest in people now and wants to be petted and scratched more often. Training equipment for Lab puppy We added a couple new training tools this week. But a thicker check cord will also work. We use this check cord for longer outside marks and assistant-marks which I will discuss more in a bit. Puppy sized canvas or light-weight plastic bumpers In week two, we introduced formal retrieving in a hallway in the house. In week three, we move outside with retrieving and introduce assistant throws, so it is helpful to have a few more bumpers. Puppy training that will continue Much of the training I have been working on for the past two weeks with Bubba will continue into this week and beyond. Dog training is not something that has a definitive end-date. For instance, you teach your puppy to SIT and then you must work and practice that command daily or weekly, often for months before the response to the command is solid. But even once the response is solid, you cannot completely stop training. If you stop training, even an older dog, the dog can lose the previous training. So, realize that you are never done working with your dog, especially on obedience training. Some areas that we will continue training Bubba on are: Crate training Bubba is doing great at crate training. She rarely makes any noise while in her crate and settles down quickly after being put into her crate. In the upcoming weeks, we will work towards getting Bubba to enter her crate on command. Looking for more information on crate training? Housebreaking Housebreaking Bubba is going well. We have caught her in a few accidents, but she already seems to understand that she is not supposed to go potty inside. This does not mean that she is done housebreaking. We still expect accidents and will for a few months, so we watch her carefully while she is running around in the house. We also praise her for behaviors like going to the door and tapping the door or whining at the door. These behaviors are rewarded with us taking her outside to go potty. When she goes potty outside, we praise her and then take her right back in. We want her to start understanding that these cue behaviors will get her out to go potty and that is all. Looking for more information on housebreaking? But we will also add a few new ones. We will use this while teaching our puppy the SIT command. It also will be used going forward, anytime we are done working on structured obedience work. We will release the dog from formal work with the OKAY command. But we also use it to mean go to a certain place, such as on a mat or stand. Or, when we want her to go into her crate or kennel. This is an associative command, meaning the puppy will learn the command through our repetition of the word as we tie it to a behavior. But over time, she will make the association and will perform it on her own. This is very important especially if you ever plan on doing more advanced training with your retriever. You will use whatever your dogs name is. A few commands that we will continue to work on this week We will continue to work on obedience commands this week and in the weeks to come. Each week we will expect a little more and better compliance and performance to the command. She is sitting when I put the leash and chain collar on her and when I am taking it off. This week we also added SIT before eating. We only make her SIT for a few seconds; we are working on control. She does not SIT on her own yet, but she will be doing that within a week or so I would guess. Right now, I grab her collar and say SIT. In week three, I have a slightly higher expectation. On walks, I make her walk right beside me for a minute or two using the HEEL command before releasing her and letting her run back and forth a bit. This tells me that she understands the command. Then release her. If every time your puppy comes to you, you put her away or take something away from her, soon your puppy will not want to come to you. You must work hard to make coming to you a good experience for your puppy. So, call her, praise her when she comes and release. Remember: Never use a HERE command if you are not in the position of being able to enforce the command. Make every effort to socialize your puppy You should continue to take steps to socialize your week-old puppy. Anything you can think of. The more things and situations you expose your puppy to, the better your puppy will be equipped to adjust and learn in the future. Learn more about socialization. Hand throws with a puppy bumper you are throwing out a bumper done outside will carry a lot more distraction than retrieves in a hallway. Just pick up the bumper and try again tomorrow. When retrieving outside, make sure you have a long foot rope attached to your puppy. Never try to do retrieves outside without a rope. You will have problems and encourage bad behaviors. You must have a way to get the puppy to come back to you, otherwise you should not be doing retrieves outside. Once your puppy is doing well retrieving outside, you are ready to introduce assistant marks. Introduction to assistant marks The most important thing we worked on with Bubba this week is assistant marks. Assistant marks are retrieves where someone else is throwing the bumper, not you. This teaches your puppy to watch out in the field for a mark. It is very rare that a duck will come from behind you, fly over your head and you shoot it. The ducks and pheasants will be falling in front of you, so the dog must learn to look out and watch for the mark. We start assistant marks on very short grass with white plugs so that the puppy can clearly see the item on the ground. We hold the puppy in a SIT position facing a thrower who is about 20 feet from you. When your puppy picks up the bumper, immediately start calling her back to you. Remember, you should have the foot check cord on her so you can pull the puppy in if needed. Then, take the bumper from her, throw it behind you, make your puppy sit facing the thrower again and repeat. Only do retrieves and then call it a day. Soon your puppy will learn this game and love it. They will start facing the thrower on their own and sitting and waiting for a mark. Final thoughts on training for your week-old Labrador puppy week-old puppies are so eager to learn, so be sure and take advantage of this enthusiasm to teach new concepts and enforce previous ones. Continue to teach your puppy to handle more and more pressure and correction while maintaining a good attitude. Lastly, assistant marks are a big deal. Once a dog learns this part of the game, you can work to increase the distance and complexity of the marks. 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. For nearly 50 years we have produced English Labradors in the true style of the all-around dog they were meant to be. Our ultimate goal has been a beautiful dog conforming to breed standards with soundness of temperament and body. Our Labradors retain the hunting ability that has made them the supreme hunting retriever. This intelligent, well-tempered dog is a perfect family companion and service dog. We are pleased to not only have many of our On The Bluff Labradors in pet, show and hunting homes, but also used as guide dogs for the disabled and specialist for airscent detection. Our breeding program strives for perfection in every litter. We use the highest quality stud dogs with a background of multiple Grand Champions. We combine their linage with the outstanding genetics of our females. The result are not just cute, adorable puppies, but dogs that can be well trained, healthy companions for a lifetime. We have never lost sight of our initial goal to produce the perfect Labrador- in mind and body. Feel free to email us for additional information or to get on a waiting list for one of our puppies. Staffed by professional trainers- each puppy receives several weeks and hundreds of hours of individual lessons- Obedience Training, House Living Training, Group Socialization, and Outside Etiquette. We believe our unique training methods and individualized programs sets us apart from any other breeder. Here you will find many adorable pictures of our current puppies.