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German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Welcome to our German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Different breeds like all different babies develop at different rates. There are going to be many exciting events for you to look forward to. Whether you are bringing your 8 week German Shepherd puppy home or about to be blessed with a litter of puppies. This is going to be an exciting, demanding but hugely rewarding journey. Newborn puppies are born at around days after fertilization. Newborn puppies are born with their ears and eyes tightly sealed. The reason eyelids are sealed shut is to form a protective barrier for the fragile developing eye. This helps to protect them from any foreign object, bright lights, bacteria or any other microorganism that can cause disease or damage. In the same way puppies ear canals are closed at birth to make them effectively deaf. This is a protective barrier to protect the fragile underdeveloped machinery needed to hear. In a mature ear the pressure caused by sound will mechanically move structures in the ear. German Shepherd puppies are highly dependent upon their noses. Puppies navigate by smell from the moment they are born. This helps them to identify their mom, the very important milk supply, siblings and surroundings. Newborn puppies are born with a fur coat however they cannot control their own body temperature yet. To keep them warm they are dependant on their mothers or another heat source. If you live in a cooler climate installing a heat lamp would be ideal to help keep the puppies nice and warm. Germans Shepherds make amazing mothers and will be relied on a lot at this stage. Mother dogs will only leave their newborn puppies to go to the toilet, eat and drink. However, when mom has gone the newborn puppies are not completely useless. They are able to use their front paws to drag themselves towards a heat source. When mom is away the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat. Along with being able to drag themselves to a heat source newborn puppies are also able to drag themselves to their mothers to locate the milk supply. They will move their heads around to search for a nipple, latch on and suck strongly. Newborn puppies are not born with teeth these will also develop in the next several weeks. Other than the above puppies are completely dependent upon the care of their dedicated mom. Newborn puppies have little control over the rear end of their bodies. To encourage their pups to pass urine and bowel movements the mom will lick their bottoms. Anything produced mom will then lick up and swallow to keep her puppies and nest clean. Some pups will even double their birth weight! Your German Shepherd puppy will still be highly dependent upon their mom at this stage. Beneath all their fur the vital organs will be working hard to mature. This includes the eyes. Your puppy will not be ready to open their eyes yet but lots of changes are taking place to prepare them for grand opening. The ear canals will begin to open around the same time as the eyes. When the ear canals do open, the ears are much more formed than the eyes are at this point in time. Their eyesight usually takes around 8 weeks to reach its full potential. When their eyes become wider, they will reveal blueish-gray eyes which are hazy in appearance. Their eyesight will continue to develop until around 8 weeks old. The ear canals will also open around 2 weeks. The puppies hearing has been developing much quicker than their eyesight and they will be able to hear most things by the time their ear canals fully open. However, their amazing hearing ability will continue to enhance over the next several weeks. At the moment your German Shepherd puppy will have cute floppy ears. Their adorable tall ears can come up anywhere between 8 weeks and 6 months of age. Floppy ears are common until your German Shepherd finishes teething. By then the ear cartilage will become strong and hard enough for the ears to stand up permanently. Now is a good time to start handling the puppies and get them used to your voice. Most puppies are wormed for the first time when they are 2 weeks old. All this development has happened so quickly, but things are about to get even more exciting. Between 2 and 4 weeks your German Shepherd puppy will begin to stand up this is when the real fun begins. Puppies milky teeth will also start to develop between 2 to 4 weeks. These sharp little teeth will remain until about weeks of age. These little daggers play an important role during the weaning process. Even the most patient moms will struggle to nurse with these sharp painful teeth. This reluctance to nurse will prompt the German Shepherds to seek alternative food sources. These sharp teeth will then help to make up for the lack of jaw strength when eating solid foods. Finally, these sharp puppy teeth play an important role in teaching the pups to gauge their bite pressure when playing with their mom and siblings. This is an essential life lesson that enables our powerful German Shepherds to become safer companions as they mature into strong adult dogs. During the last few weeks mom has done an amazing job of getting her babies strong and their mobility will have come on leaps and bounds well not quite yet but by 3 weeks of age your German Shepherd puppy will begin to trotter around. Most 3 week old German Shepherd puppies can stand and sit. With their baby teeth starting to cut through a lot of breeders. Especially those with large litters will start introducing some solid foods. This helps relieve some of the pressure for the devoted German Shepherd mom. When weaning puppies, you need to start off by soaking their food in either water or puppy milk replacement formula to make it mushy and more comfortable for them to eat. As they start to interact and play with their siblings their personalities will really start to show. You may also notice them starting to playfully growl at each other. At 3 weeks old it will become easier to start identifying different members of the pack. Breeders and moms will be kept on their toes and paws over the next few weeks. As the pups start getting more confident on their feet they will be running around and playing enthusiastically. At 4 weeks old they will begin to wag their adorable little tails. With solid food becoming a major part of their diet the pups will be passing bigger bowel movements. They will be able to show more control of their bowel movements as they take themselves away from their brothers and sisters to perform their business. At this stage mom will be taking a much more relaxed approach to parenting and there will be a lot more for the breeder to clear up. By this point mealtimes are a messy process. If it is warm and safe enough to do so we would recommend taking the pups out in the yard for feeding. German Shepherd puppies are becoming a lot stronger at vocalisations by 4 weeks old. When mom returns to her babies the litter will noisily greet her. Around 4 weeks of age your puppies will need to be wormed again. From this week onwards human interaction is very important in order to form relationships with people. Including different noises and smells. This exposure will ensure your German Shepherd puppy turns into a confident, friendly individual. Mom will also be doing an important job of teaching her puppies to not bite too hard. Even an 8 week old German Shepherd puppy would have the power in their jaws to break the smaller bones in humans fingers. This is why mom teaching her puppies bite inhibition is so important. For more information on bite inhibition please see our guide on German Shepherd bite inhibition. By 5 weeks old German Shepherd puppies will be eating a lot of solid foods, several times throughout the day. Those sharp little teeth would have done their job and mom will be gradually weaning her pups of the dependency on her milk. When mom does feed her puppies, she will only do so for a short period whilst standing up. They will be eating between five and six small meals a day. Although the pups no longer rely on mom for milk, they still need her help and guidance for the next few weeks. Mom will be teaching her babies important life skills to live alongside humans. In some countries 6 week old puppies are taken away from their mothers and moved into their new home. We would not recommend this as the puppies will miss out on continued bite inhibition training from their siblings and mother. This can result in a puppy who bites too hard which can be challenging to manage as they get older. In the USA your puppy will be due their first combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 6 weeks old. This vaccine helps to immunizes your puppy against hepatitis, parvo, distemper, parainfluenza and coronavirus. Most puppies will also need to be wormed again at 6 weeks old. Their last week together will consist of plenty of socialization and playing. Most breeders will arrange a 7 week health check up with the vet to make sure your bundle of fluff is fit and healthy to go to their new home. In the UK some breeders will arrange for the pups first 8 week vaccination to take place during this check. Although some vets advise against it. By the end of this week German Shepherd puppies are ready to leave their mothers and move into their new homes for good. The week you get to take your new puppy home. This will be a very exciting time, but you may also be feeling a bit nervous. There will be some challenged along the way for new puppy owners and your puppy will take some time to adjust to life without its mother and siblings. In the UK the first combined vaccination will help to immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. The first puppy injection in the UK typically will happen between 8 and 10 weeks. Some breeders would have trained the puppies to poop and pee on newspapers or puppy pads. From the moment you get them home it is important to show your German Shepherd puppy where to pee and poop. Puppies naturally like to pee where they have done so before so to avoid building history of peeing in your home is best if you can to avoid it. The more you can avoid accidents from happening as much as possible from the start the faster the puppy training process should be. All puppies are different, and some will get this quicker than others. The main thing to remember is not to discipline your puppy for accidents. The most successful way to potty train is to reward success and ignore accidents. Just clean them up quickly and thoroughly. Your puppy will love nothing more than being praised. For more information please see our guide on How to potty train your German Shepherd puppy. Already your German Shepherd puppy will feel like part of the family. German Shepherds puppies are always adorable but at 9 weeks they are at the age where they are still puppy-like but very clumsy,curious and keen to play with her new family, which is very cute. Your German Shepherds unique personality will make you feel very proud. At 9 weeks your cheeky German Shepherd pup will be feeling more confident, with this the need to explore everything and anything may end up getting them into trouble. Your puppy will develop new sleeping patterns and feeding routines which you will need to adapt to. Most puppies will sleep between eighteen and twenty hours a day at 9 weeks old. During the day when you are with your puppy generally you will not need to shut them away in a crate to nap. German Shepherd puppies are often more than happy to sleep whilst family life goes on around them. However, there will be times when sleeping in a crate is better and safer for your puppy. You must not leave a 9 week old puppy to sleep outside the crate if you are not home to watch them if they wake. Puppies are into everything and many innocent items found in the house could be a potential hazard to your inquisitive pup. For more information please see our guide on how to puppy proof your home. Even if your puppy can barely keep their eyes open other pups and children will still want to play and your German Shepherd puppy may find it hard to refuse. After a hard day of play the peace and quiet of a crate will enable your pup to have a well-deserved nap. If your German Shepherd puppy does need to go to the toilet in the night make sure you keep it short and to a minimum. Establishing a daily routine is the best way to get your German Shepherd puppy to sleep through the night. Part of this schedule will involve mealtimes. Your 9 week old puppy will need four meals a day. Split these up throughout the day and try to stick to similar times. This is to stop encouraging your puppy to wake up earlier and earlier because they associate waking with food. You should always reward your puppy either vocally, with a favourite toy or treats for good behaviour and ignore bad behaviour. Puppies and dogs want to be praised so they respond very well to positive encouragement. Punishing puppies and dogs may have a short term positive effect on their behaviour but long term you could be setting them up to fail. It is very important to socialise and expose your puppy to other humans, dogs and different scenarios whilst they are young. This maybe hard before your puppy has had all its vaccines however getting many different people to come and visit you at your home will enable them to get used to visitors. Before their full vaccinations you can also, you can take you German Shepherd puppy out and about with you to expose them to the outside world as long as you can carry them. If you live in the USA, your puppy will be due their second combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 9 weeks old. In the USA a minimum of three sets of the combined vaccine are required for your puppy. Although you cannot put your puppy down outside until after their final vaccination. Puppies 10 week injection In the UK is a booster vaccination to help immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. Check with your vet what date after their jabs your German Shepherd puppy will be able to go down outside. Your puppy will then need a booster between 6 and 12 months old. If you live in the USA at 12 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be due their booster for the combined 5in1 vaccine against hepatitis, distemper, parainfluenza, parvo and coronavirus and a vaccine against rabies and leptospirosis. If you live in a high risk area, they may also need to be given the vaccination to help immunize them against Lyme. If applicable at 16 weeks your German Shepherd puppy may need to have a fourth combined 5in1 vaccine. A minimum of three combined injections are required in the USA. Check with your vet what date they will be able to be out down outside. By 10 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be able to control their bladder a lot more. Potentially up to several hours. This is great time for you to introduce them to the big wide world and develop their social skills which you have already been building the foundations. When taking your German Shepherd puppy out try to introduce them to as many other friendly dogs, humans and noises you can. This will help your German Shepherd puppy to grown into a confident well-rounded dog. At 3 months old your German Shepherd will go down from four daily meals to three. These three portions will be larger than what they are used to which may cause stomach upset. If your German Shepherd puppy does get an upset stomach, try going back to four smaller meals for a couple of days and they try the three larger portions again. This can be a challenging time as your adorable German Shepherd puppy turns into a furry crocodile. Luckily the teething stage is only a phase as with human babies and short lived. In most cases your puppy biting should stop around when they are around 7 months old and have their adult teeth. You maybe noticing your German Shepherds gorgeous ears fluctuating between floppy and pointy. By the time your puppy has finished teething their ears should tick up all the way. This usually happens around months. As they grow their cartilage becomes stronger. Some puppies need another month or so to help them cope without going out for frequent toilet breaks. Even when your German Shepherd puppy is toilet trained occasional accidents are normal. German Shepherds do have large ears but they tend to grow into them as they get older. German Shepherd puppies will begin to grow their new adult coat between 4 and 6 months old. To make way for their adult coat all the puppy hair has to go. For several weeks you will notice an increase in shedding. This is a completely normal part of growing up for your German Shepherd. Being a double coat breed German Shepherds dogs have a topcoat and an undercoat. Twice a year your pup will shed their undercoat. Usually in spring and again in fall. They also shed in general days a year so be prepared for a lot of fur! They will very much look like a smaller version of their adult selves. Although your German Shepherd may look older on the inside, they are still very much a puppy. If you are looking to get your puppy neutered or spayed the recommended age is 6 to 9 months. However, it is common for some female puppies to get spayed at 4 months old. Summary: Your German Shepherd is bound to give you so much joy and happiness throughout its life. There will be challenges along the way but remember this is completely normal. German Shepherds are such an amazing breed and you will have a loyal friend for life. Related Posts. Final Thoughts A 3 month old German Shepherd is still fluffy and cute, but it has changed a lot in comparison to its early days. It has become pretty tall, about one foot in height, with long paws and an extreme desire to chew something. Put away all your shoes, socks, or clothes because they may suffer badly from its teeth. Instead, buy entertaining chew toys and collect all your patience. You need to take proper care of your pup and keep its immense energy under control. So, you need to know how to train your German Shepherd for a happy and healthy future. This guide will help you learn more and let your ideal doggy live a long life full of positive experiences and adventures. If you have a boy, its height will be about inches cm. Girls are a bit lower at this age — they are about inches cm tall. You can also notice the increase in weight. The 3 month old German Shepherd weight can differ depending on several factors. Males can weigh pounds kg , while females weigh pounds kg. However, they can be even smaller if they belong to a working line. The gender difference becomes apparent at this age. The weight can also depend on the diet you feed your pup. The changes in appearance also include the teething stage. At this time, your pup has all its milk teeth, so adult teeth growth starts. It will last for a few months until all the puppy teeth will be replaced. You will notice one more dramatic change. It concerns the coat. Its fluffy and fuzzy nature will disappear because the adult fur starts growing. You will see a racing stripe on the back to show that the puppy coat has started to be replaced. Your pup still has floppy ears that can stand straight from time to time. Though, you need to understand that during this period, the ears will not stand up steadily because teething needs a lot of calcium, and the ear cartilage cannot harden properly. You will see a lot of improvements and a steadier ear position in a month or so. Remember not to pat your little one on the ears or head, or you may damage the cartilage. It will last until your puppy is 6 months old and is characterized by immense energy, curiosity, and getting into trouble here and there. That is why socialization and training are so important in this period. German Shepherd puppies at this age are very energetic. Though they look more grown-up than ever, their puppy nature always gets them into trouble, so you need to remain as patient as you can to train your little one the proper behavior. Your pup may jump at people and bite them. Praise it with a treat if it can abstain from doing that. Since your 3 month old German Shepherd puppy is full of energy, it needs a lot of exercise. Keep it busy all the time, but not make it do something heavy for a long time because it may have severe negative consequences on its health. Take it for walks as often as you can. A minute walk is enough. The distance your pup can walk is up to 6 miles 9. Moreover, your doggy needs a lot of other exercises. It can be a combination of playing fetch, running, and aerobic activities. You can make it play with a rubber toy or do some strength training. Once again, one-time sessions should not be very long. If you cannot take your pup outside for a walk because it is very cold, play with it inside. It can be playing with a puzzle toy or hiding something in the house and asking your dog to find it. If you have a car, you can take your puppy on a ride to provide it with more experience. Overexercising can lead to problems with joints, so you need to be very careful. The sleeping schedule of your puppy also changes a little at this age. It is approximately hours per day. It can also wake you up at night and require playing or going potty. It is normal at this age. The fastest sleep for it is before dawn. If you hesitate about how much your German Shepherd should sleep now, or whether it needs some sleep during the daytime, you can consult your vet. Health and Care Your 12 week old German Shepherd grows fast, and it looks healthy. However, you need to be aware of possible health issues at this age to be careful about. The first thing you have to keep in mind is weighing and measuring your doggy regularly. At this point, you should also provide it with the second set of vaccinations. It includes parvovirus, parainfluenza, hepatitis, and distemper. Keep to a healthy and nutritious diet. If you have any doubts about the possibility of hereditary health conditions, get a DNA test. It is especially important if you want to prevent degenerative myelopathy. Even if your pup is healthy and merry, you need to take care of it regularly. Healthy diets, frequent walks, and enough exercise are all indisputable components of good puppy care. Remember to groom and brush your doggy just twice per week. Changing the coat to an adult one will lead to excessive shedding. Try to help your pet get rid of the fur that is not needed anymore. You can even develop a specific schedule for grooming or make an appointment with a professional if you are not sure how to do it properly. That can be a regular playdate with your dog-loving friends and their pets. Or you can help your pup meet new friends when you are walking with it in the park. Potty walks are an essential part of care. A 3 month old GSD can hold its bladder for an hour or so. That is why you need to keep an eye on it and let it eliminate whenever it is needed without unnecessary inside accidents. Your little one needs only healthy nutrition to grow strong and intelligent. Be attentive about treats. Obesity can cause other health problems with the heart, kidneys, and joints. Develop a feeding schedule and try to stick to it. If the puppy leaves some food in the bowl, take it away. Never leave the leftovers in the bowl, or your puppy will come back to them later, and it will be impossible to establish a feeding schedule. That will lead to potty accidents and digestion issues. The diet has to be rich in protein, but be sure that it does not contain too much fat. The food should also contain phosphorus, calcium, and vitamins. You can use vitamin supplements meant for German Shepherd puppies, but never opt for those that are for humans or adult dogs. The schedule is very important for your pet. If you establish it at three feeding times per day, try to keep to it. Distribute the amount of food evenly throughout all meals. Never feed your doggy immediately before going to bed. Provide it with enough water. Fresh water is essential for puppies, so the bowl full has to be around all the time. You do not need to take it away. It starts understanding what is going on around it. So, it needs proper training at this age. It should also learn how to interact with other animals and people. Obedience training is essential at this time. Your puppy may not master all of them at once because its attention span is rather short, so be patient enough to repeat them again and again. Only after you see that your pet is confident about these commands, you may continue with more complicated ones. Never punish or beat your puppy if something does not go well. Positive reinforcement is always your priority. Never forget to praise your little dog and give it treats if it has done something well. Your doggy should also know how to deal with other dogs. If you have a friend with a dog, invite them to your place or pay a visit to them with your pup. Your doggy will feel more confident if it knows how to build trust and socialize with other living beings. Training is very important during this period. So, if you have not started doing it yet, begin your training sessions immediately. Your doggy should see a leader of the pack in you, so be as persistent and confident as possible. If you have some difficulties, it is better to seek the help of an expert. You should be prepared to spend a lot of time training your pup. It may not be so easy at first, but it is certain to be rewarding. The height of your puppy changes very quickly because its intensive growth continues. How much should a 3 month old German Shepherd weight? There may be an apparent increase in weight at this age. It depends on several factors, such as hereditary options, type of line, feeding schedule, etc. On average, boys weigh pounds .Puppies from the working line can weigh less. How much should a 3 month old German Shepherd eat? Your pup should eat 2 cups of dry kibble or homemade food per day. How much does a 3 month old German Shepherd sleep? You will notice some changes in the sleep schedule of your pup. It needs less sleep, but the overall sleeping time is about hours per day, including day naps. The puppy can still wake you up at night for playing or potty. Though, this will happen more rarely. How far can a 3 month old German Shepherd walk? How much exercise should a 3 month old GSD get? The puppy needs a lot of exercise at this age. At least 30 minutes per session can help it grow smart, alert, and strong. Walking and running for about 15 minutes can be a part of this exercise. However, you can include playing games into the sessions. Final Thoughts The first thing you need to remember when you have decided that a German Shepherd is a good breed for you is to be ready for taking a huge responsibility. Be patient and positive. Never punish, shout at it, or beat it. However, you have to be consistent and demanding to let your 3 month old German Shepherd puppy feel that you are its leader, and it should follow and trust you. German Shepherds, if properly trained, socialized, and cared for, are great family dogs. That is why you need to keep the advice from this article in mind and always contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Reliable training German Shepherd puppy training: socialization! The first item in your German Shepherd puppy training list is Socialization. It means that you must provide your baby German Shepherd with interesting and positive interactions. If you ensure that your pup interacts, and has a positive and rewarding experience, with as many people, dogs, animals, sounds, objects, sights and experiences, you will raise a confident and reliable dog. Every new activity or interaction must be followed with a yummy treat! This will ensure your puppy will have a positive association with every new experience, object, person, animal, etc. You can use your dog's kibble or something better like chicken, beef or cheese. Commercial treats are also a good and easy to use option, but make sure you buy healthy, all natural dog treats to keep your German shepherd puppy healthy and strong! German Shepherd dogs are loyal and may have a tendency to be apprehensive with strangers. Socialization will ensure that your puppy grows a strong bond with you without developing a problematic over-protectiveness. German Shepherd puppy training socialization tips: Never separate a puppy from his mother and littermates before the age of weeks. During this time, mom teaches her puppies some important rules of the dog world like body language communication and they start to learn bite inhibition by plying with the other puppies. Unfortunately many vets will tell you not to take your puppy out of the house until they have had all of their shots. This is old school thinking and can have extremely bad consequences that will become apparent only when your canine becomes an adult. Without the full set of shots, your puppy is vulnerable to infectious diseases, however taking your pup to early socialization classes where all other dogs have also been immunized reduces the risk for becoming sick AND will make your German Shepherd a confident, well adjusted and friendlier dog. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior promotes early socialization , even before the full set of vaccines are given to the pup. Take socialization in your own hands. Spend the first 4 weeks holding parties at your home! Yes, parties! Invite all your friends and family for Karaoke, sports watching, boardgames, etc. Ask them to bring their kids too! And always make sure socialization is about positive interactions. If any of the kids or adults make your puppy a little scared, simply remove the threat and let the puppy explore other things. Back to top of German shepherd puppy training article. German Shepherd puppy training: stop the biting! Socialization is hard work, bite-inhibition is even harder! But it is one of the best things you can ever teach your pup. Dogs have really strong jaws and can learn to apply just the right amount of pressure with it. Adult dogs that have had this kind of training can get into fights and defend themselves without drawing blood. This is so important to avoid any type of dog-human or dog-dog bite accidents. German Shepherd puppy dogs have sharp teeth for a reason: to learn how to use their mouth properly. Teach your puppy to bite without hurting! To teach your pooch not to hurt human skin you will need to yelp like a puppy every time you feel teeth in contact with your skin. Engage in puppy play and Yelp Yes! Loud, sharp, high pitched and clear when you feel teeth. Your pup will most likely stop in surprise. As soon as he has stopped, wait seconds and resume play. Repeat as many times as needed. Start with those bites that really hurt or scratch. If you yelp every time you feel teeth, your puppy will think it is how you play. It may take a few weeks for you to notice that your pup is not hurting as much.Progressively teach your pup to play without hurting you. This make take a couple of months! Do not let your puppy play with your clothes, shoes, face or hair. If your puppy bites any of these, the game is over. Wait for him to calm down and start playing again. If you are tired of playing and getting bitten, grab a tug-toy or a ball and play those games instead. After a while, settle your puppy with a stuffed Kong toy on his bed or crate. Never punish your puppy for play-biting, this can lead to aggression or your puppy fearing "hands" near his face. Even though German shepherd puppy dogs are really smart, bite-inhibition requires a lot of repetition and consistency. Most of the time you will feel he is not learning anything at all, keep at it. You can add second time outs on top of yelping if needed. It is definitely worth your time. If bite-inhibition is slow, this article has more tips to help you! Another aspect of training your German shepherd puppy bite inhibition are toys! Your pup needs to learn to bite only his toys, not furniture, not the walls, not your shoes. For this reason you need to load your house with puppy toys and TEACH your puppy how to play with them. The best dog toys are interactive, this means that you can put food inside the toy and your puppy has to think how to get it out. This toys are the best because they add enrichment to your dog's life. Interactive dog toy recommendations: Feed EVERY meal inside an interactive dog toy Use interactive toys with your German shepherd when he is left alone in the house. Make sure he has plenty of toys interactive and others so he won't get bored when you leave. Use interactive toys when you need some quiet time because you need to work, or you have guests. Kong dog toy's are the best , you can fill them with something soft like cheese or peanut butter and let your puppy lick it for a while. Even better.Below you will see some of my favorite interactive dog toys durable and fun! German Shepherd puppy training: potty outside! Another important item on your German shepherd puppy training list is House training. It can be a bit stressful, but if done correctly, you can accomplish it very quickly. Just keep in mind that depending on your puppy in can take anywhere from 1 week to several months to complete potty training. The following info-graphic has some simple rules to follow and make german shepher potty training easy and effective: Take your puppy out for a potty break every hours. Take your puppy out for a potty the break after every meal. Take your puppy out for a potty break after a nap. Take your puppy out for a potty break after a play session. The main idea when potty training a German shepherd puppy, is to take him out or to the correct place as often as he needs to and reward him after he is done. The infographic above gives you an idea of how often a puppy needs to go out. However, you need to know your own puppy. This way you will know how often he is relieving himself. You may also notice if he does it after every meal or nap. Reward with a treat after he is done! Repeat steps 2 and 3, you should start noticing that after a couple of days or weeks your puppy chooses the correct place more often than other places. NEVER punish your dog for accidents, this can stress him and even make him do his business hidden from you which will make potty training very hard because you won't be able to reward him. You can crate train your German shepherd puppy so he learns to have quiet times in between active times. Crate training also prevents your puppy from having accidents. For more information and a puppy crate-training schedule check this article! German shepherd potty training aids The are several commercial items available to help you potty train your German shepherd dog. Regular cleaning products may take away the urine scent -you- smell but they will not remove the scent your dog smells. Enzymatic cleaners do that, they break down urine molecules to make them easy to remove. This will prevent your pet from returning to the same, incorrect, spot. Puppy pads are very popular because they are less messy than news paper. However, if you put a puppy pad and leave you puppy alone with it, you will find it in shreds! You must teach your puppy to use the puppy pads, not to chew on them. To do this, put the puppy pad on the floor and interrupt your puppy if he tries to play with it. Exchange for another toy and reward with treats for not grabbing the pad with his mouth he can however, stand or sit on it. Repeat until he learns this! If you have a backyard, a doggy-door is an excellent way to give your pup access to the outdoors without your help. You must teach him how to use it! Use a treat to lure him through the door many times until he can do it on his own! Then, every-time you take him outside, make him go though the door on his own. You can also teach your puppy to let you know when he needs to go outside! Use a doggy doorbells for this purpose. You must teach your dog how to use them! First, teach your dog to touch the bells. Then, ask your dog to touch the bells every time before you open the door to let him go outside. Finally, be alert for when he does it on his own! I do not recommend any "Not Here" or "Yes Here" type sprays. They don't work very well, specially without any training.German Shepherd puppy training: basic commands! Some dog trainers won't start until the dog is 6 months old, at which time he is past the socialization and bite inhibition period and he is probably doing all sorts of naughty things. You can start training your German shepherd puppy from the first day you bring him home. From weeks you can start teaching your canine many commands, however I strongly advice you keep your focus on socialization, bite-inhibition and potty training. If you have time to train basic commands…. Your pooch will love it! Step-by-step obedience training tutorials for your German shepherd German Shepherd puppy training "SIT": You will use this command all the time. Ask your pup to sit when a stranger wants to pet him, for attention, for the ball to be thrown, etc. To start use food to lure your pooch into the sit position. Only give him the treat once his bottom is on the ground. Repeat many times! Follow this link for detail instructions.This is useful at the vet as well as to mix and match commands. From a sit or down position lure your baby german shepherd into a stand. This link will take you to the step by step guide.Start your pooch from a sitting position and lure him into a down. Only give your dog a treat after he is completely down on the ground. Click here for a step-by-step tutorial.Why train your pooch sit, down and stand? You need three commands to mix up when you ask your dog to do something. If you have at least three options, then your smart German Shepherd won't be able to predict what you will ask. Practice Puppy Push-Ups! Sit-down-stand, Down-sit-stand, and ask you German Shepherd puppy to do one, two, or more commands to earn treats, toys and attention! Other useful cues include: Speak and Quiet , settle and ask for permission before rushing into something potentially dangerous. You can see a full list of commands on this link. Enjoy German Shepherd puppy training time and leave us your questions and comments in the box below.

That means we health test our dogs to the highest standards offered by the Australian Labradoodle Association of America and abide by their code of ethics, as well as our own. We hand raise our puppies in our home as part of our family. They are well socialized with children, our cats, and various other pets. Our puppies health and happiness are of utmost importance to us and we strive to place them in wonderful forever families that will provide them with love, training, exercise and socialization to ensure a lifetime of happiness for all. Our 3rd party temperament testing helps greatly with this process. We operate on Kingdom principles meaning we operate out of love and integrity and stand by our genetic health guarantee and are here for a lifetime of support for your and your new puppy. We are honored to serve by placing quality companion puppies in your home. Each pedigree submitted is researched and verified to ensure authenticity and health testing. The Australian Labradoodle has been bred for generations back for temperament, health, structure, and coat quality. Click here for current puppy pictures and pictures from previous litters. Mini and Medium Pups available for June and July pick-up! This helps us match your family with a puppy that best suits your lifestyle. Our puppies are a part of our family and the health and maintenance over their lifetime mean a lot to us. So much attention to detail and every decision made and guidelines strictly followed, all with the end result in mind of creating the highest quality labradoodles on the planet. Weirdest coolest thing ever when you have never had one of your pups. We had airedales — opposite of Jia- aloof as can be. Reads you, knows you; you read her; you know her. Total human in dog form. Best thing ever! You have a gift of breeding the best tempered companions, and companions are vital on all the twists and turns that life brings. I fully believe you took something God planted in your heart and honored Him. So grateful we were lucky enough to have one. You have been faithful to Him in this calling, and I know He who promised is faithful to you! We breed multigenerational Australian Labradoodles and American Labradoodles. Our goal is producing loving Australian Labradoodle puppies and American Labradoodle puppies to add to your family: with hypo allergenic qualities, beautiful wavy fleeces and curles and exceptionally smart. A smart dog is a happy dog, they are easily trained which adds to the enjoyment of your new family member. We have chocolate Australian labradoodle puppies for sale, chocolate parti Australian labradoodle puppies for sale merle Australian labradoodle puppies for sale and many other color Australian labradoodles for sale. Our puppies will be smart like their parents who know both hand signals as well as voice commands. Many of our past puppies have become service dogs for Epileptic Seizure Services, Hospice Services, and other Service related settings. Why do our dogs make such Great Service Dog Candidates, our wonderful Rocky passes his wonderful calm demeanor to all of his puppies. Also, many people love the look of our Merle labradoodles - They are absolutely stunning. We tend to have clients in the Chattanooga, Tennessee and Huntsville, Alabama areas that have a found interest in our Miniature Australian Labradoodles and clients in Florida are particularly interested in our Merle Australian Labradoodles. Of course clients in Dallas Texas and parts of Illinois have added our Standard size Australian Labradoodles to there households. Whether clients are on vacation or simply enjoying the local park, It's exciting when we hear reports from our owners that they ran into another Australian Labradoodle that turns out to be a Lord and Lady Labradoodle all over the country. And clients never cease to tell stories of how people they meet rant and rave over there Lord and Lady Australian Labradoodle. Home SkyeDoodles Austrailian Labradoodles. Breeding for excellence. At SkyeDoodles, we breed the finest quality bloodlines of Multi-generational Australian Labradoodles. We are a small family breeder just outside Atlanta, Georgia. Our breeding dogs live in our home or with a special hand-picked Guardian Family with whom the dog has been loved and cared for since the age of eight weeks. If you are looking for a gorgeous, healthy, intelligent, athletic, loving family companion who is allergy friendly and non-shedding, then a Skyedoodle is for you! All of our breeding dogs undergo extensive health testing for genetic diseases for which the highest standards must be met before a dog is qualified for breeding at Skyedoodles. Great care is placed on puppy socialization, the highest quality of grain free and raw food, vitamins, and of course a lot of love! See our available puppies. At Skyedoodles we value our clients. We understand how important it is to find the right puppy for your family. We work with every person individually, whether it is finding the right candidate for a future service dog or your new family member. See our beautiful expecting couples, and puppies available for adoption now. Hurry, puppies are often reserved before they are born. We appreciate your interest in our Australian Labradoodle puppies. We love to talk about our expected litters, the adoption process of our gorgeous puppies and what you can expect from Skyedoodles Australian Labradoodles. Giving Back. Charitable donations changing children's lives. Our community of SkyeDoodle families makes these charitible donations possible simply by purchasing premium quality Life's Abundance food, and essential suppliments from NuVet Labs. Our partenerships with these companies allows SkyeDoodles, and SkyeDoodle families to make a difference in children's lives. Connect with us online. See the cutest posts on Facebook and Instagram, and find out more about the top quality products we recommend. Like us on facebook! Be the first to see videos of new litters and more! Follow us on Instagram! Enjoy cute and funny moments, the instant they happen! TLC Pet Food provides an array of superior quality, safe and effective products, improving the health of people, pets and the planet. America's highest quality pet supplement since , made in the U. Labradoodles are not only endearing and full of personality, but they also offer a host of benefits that make them the ideal choice for those new to dog ownership. Easy to Train Labradoodles are known for their intelligence.Read more » Continue Reading.This is great advice, as crate training your Labradoodle early will make things easier as they get older. Health Tested. What does that even mean? One of the biggest parts of being a reputable breeder is health testing. While yearly vet checkups are important there is so much more that goes into making sure.Are Labradoodles Easy to Train? When you adopt a puppy, no matter what they of puppy they are they will need to be trained. As such, many to-be-dog owners look to see if their particular breed is easy to train before they plan on adopting. You may have fallen in love with the adorable face and curls of the Labradoodle, Visitors, treats, decorations, and more can all cause stress and harm to our Labradoodles. We want our four-legged friends to enjoy Halloween as much as we do, so make sure you follow these Halloween safety tips for Labradoodles. Hide away the candy.Our Labradoodles, however, will feel the heat even more so than we do. So, what can we do to keep our Labradoodles safe and healthy.Are Labradoodles Hypoallergenic? Labradoodles are a wonderful breed. Read on to learn more. However, reality is a bit.In fact, they have three! If you just adopted a labradoodle puppy, they could have a fleece, wool, or hair coat. Below we explain the qualities and characteristics of all three. Fleece A fleece coat is soft and easy to manage. Thanks to its.How to Exercise Your Labradoodle Labradoodles can live a long time, up to 16 years on average. However, to ensure you spend as many years as possible with your Labradoodle, you need to take care of its health. That means feeding them well and exercising your pup regularly. But each breed of dog has different exercise requirements, so how can.But have no fear. Here are.Doodle Grooming Warning…this is going to be long and I am not a professional by any means but I have experience with grooming all our doodles! Grooming is key in the life of your doodle! I think of grooming as a bonding time between me and my dog. The goal is to start young so they.Hazel's Story How we came to get Hazel is a crazy story. If you have been following us for a while you may remember my first female poodle Sophie black and white. She failed her health testing so per her health guarantee we would get a replacement puppy. Her breeder rarely has litters but by chance had some.You can breed many generations F1, F1b, multi-generational but no matter what the results are essentially the same. There is no breed standard so.I want the best for my dogs nutritionally, health wise, life wise, and improving our breeding program. Everyone had great things to say about it.Our original start: Have you ever wondered how we chose our name? The C comes from my name Casey and the.She is an English Cream Golden Retriever and we are completely in love. With our decision to retire Bella we decided to go ahead and start looking for our next mama. After much thought we decided that we wanted to looking into adding Goldendoodles.Hybrid Vigor…. Did you know that with a crossbred dog you get added benefits? I had read about hybrid vigor when I was researching at our start. Then in college it is something we talk about regularly in all of my livestock production classes as a way of bettering our herds. Our Nursery Phase I…. We must always be willing to change things and discover.Picture Perfect…. One of my favorite things to do is take pictures of the puppies. I just want to give a little insight into what all.There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die…a time to weep and a time to laugh. Ecclesiastes We experienced both of these seasons in a short time. My papa passed away on a Sunday and the next.Choosing Our Dogs…. If you have ever purchased a dog you might know how long of a process choosing the right one can be. Just like many of the people who have purchased from us have said they have searched for maybe months or years for a reputable breeder before us, we also have been through the same.Bella was our first baby. From there it all.Contact Us. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Shipping is available if you are not within driving distance. Welcome to North Georgia Labradoodles! We are a small family breeder of Labradoodles located in Northeast Georgia. We are a mother and daughter team and have been breeding top quality dogs for years. We aquired our first labradoodle in and fell head-over-heels in love with the Labradoodle temperment. We raise our sweet Labradoodles right here in our home where they can get the love and socialization that they need. Our dogs share our home, occupy our couches, our laps and our beds. Our dogs are not simply a business, they are cherished members of the family. We focus on raising beautiful, loving, healthy, intelligent, allergy and asthma-friendly companions for you and your family. All puppies are raised in our home with individual love and socialization. Our parents are health tested and our puppies come with a one year health guarantee. North Georgia Labradoodles breeds standard-sized, multi-generational Labradoodles. Our puppies are bred for temperament, health, personality and — of course — looks! Yes, these puppies are incredibly adorable, but beauty is not the only thing that makes them special. Their cuteness, combined with their inherent intelligence and gentle temperament, makes these puppies completely irresistible. We think that starts with the parents. We health test before choosing our breeding dogs to ensure the healthiest puppies possible. We test using PawPrint Genetics. Click below to view the testing and results. Serving Atlanta and the South East for 12 years! The Australian Labradoodle is different from all other labradoodles In the mids, The Australian Guide Dog Association received an inquiry from a blind lady requesting a guide dog that would not cause her allergies to flare. To achieve a hypoallergenic dog they needed to breed their proven Labradors to a dog that was already non-shedding, hence the Standard Poodle. The resulting Labradoodles subsequently have been bred to each other, continuing the multi-generational tradition without ever having to go back to the parent breed of the Labrador or Poodle. Even when the other types of Labradoodles are bred on for generations, the result is not an Australian Labradoodle, as the attributes of the infused breeds were not included in their ancestry. We have also produced many therapy and service dogs in Atlanta and the surrounding areas. Our puppies are birthed in our home and raised in our acre farm in the suburbs of Atlanta. Labradoodle puppies for adoption Atlanta Georgia. Australian Labradoodles near me Thank you to all of our Families.

Reviewed by Monica Tarantino Dr. Monica Tarantino, DVM, is a small animal veterinarian and writer with five years of general practice, emergency medicine, and geriatric pet health experience. She is certified as a Fear Free doctor. Emily has been a proofreader and editor at a variety of online media outlets over the past decade and has reviewed more than articles for The Spruce Pets for factual accuracy. These pups make a great addition to every home, as they are excellent with kids, love to cuddle, and will do anything to make their owners happy. They are medium-to-large sturdy dogs with excellent balance, obedience through the roof , and an adorable face. Keep scrolling to see the cutest photos yet and discover mind-boggling Labrador retriever trivia. Despite their name, Labrador retrievers originally came from Newfoundland, not Labrador. Continue to 2 of 16 below. Continue to 3 of 16 below. Continue to 4 of 16 below. Continue to 5 of 16 below. Continue to 6 of 16 below. A little training will go a long way. Continue to 7 of 16 below. It may require some training, but their instincts will know how to handle soft items. Labrador retrievers go crazy for plush toys and are often found napping with their favorite ones. Continue to 8 of 16 below. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Built for sport, the Lab is muscular and athletic. They have a short, easy-care coat, friendly demeanor, keen intelligence, and plenty of energy. Devotion to this breed runs deep; Labs are loving, people-oriented dogs who live to serve their families, and owners and fans sometimes liken their Labs to angels. The breed originated on the island of Newfoundland, off the northeastern Atlantic coast of Canada. Originally called the St. Today, most Labs skip the hard labor and spend their days being pampered and loved by their people. However, some Labs still serve as indispensable working dogs. They also excel as a search and rescue dog or as a retriever for hunters, thanks to their athletic build, strong nose, and courageous nature. And Labs have also become the breed to beat at dog sports such as agility and obedience competitions, especially obedience. In fact, owners say their sweet, helpful Lab is likely to greet an intruder and happily show them where the goods are stashed. One role has remained constant: wonderful companion and friend. Labrador Retriever Highlights Friendly and outgoing. Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They are good with people of all ages and other animals. Intelligent and trainable. Labrador Retrievers are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. They are often used as working dogs, such as guide dogs, search and rescue dogs, and therapy dogs. Active and playful. Labrador Retrievers are active dogs that need plenty of exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, swimming, and other activities. Loyal and devoted. Labrador Retrievers are loyal and devoted dogs that make great family pets. They are known for their gentle nature and love of children. Grooming needs are minimal. Labrador Retrievers have a short, thick coat that is easy to groom. They only need to be brushed a few times a week and bathed as needed. Overall, the Labrador Retriever is a versatile and popular dog breed that makes a great family pet. They are friendly, intelligent, and trainable, and they have a low grooming requirement. If you are considering getting a Labrador Retriever, be sure to do your research to find a reputable breeder. Labrador Retrievers are wonderful dogs, but they require a lot of time and attention. They are not a good choice for people who are not active or who do not have a lot of time to spend with their pets. Originally called St. Although their heritage is unknown, many believe the St. The second Earl of Malmesbury was one of the first, and had St. The third Earl of Malmesbury was the first person to refer to the dogs as Labradors. In Newfoundland, the breed disappeared because of government restrictions and tax laws. Families were allowed to keep no more than one dog, and owning a female was highly taxed, so girl puppies were culled from litters. In England, however, the breed survived, and the Kennel Club recognized the Labrador Retriever as a distinct breed in .They also top the list in Canada and England. Today, Labs work in drug and explosive detection, search and rescue, therapy, assistance to those with disabilities, and as retrievers for hunters. They also excel in all forms of dog competitions: show, field, agility, and obedience. Labrador Retriever Size Males stand .Females stand .Aside from a winning personality, they have the intelligence and eagerness to please that make them easy to train. Training is definitely necessary because this breed has a lot of energy and exuberance. The working heritage of the Lab means they are active. This breed needs activity, both physical and mental, to keep them happy. There is some variation in the activity level of Labs: some are rowdy, others are more laid back. All thrive on activity. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia : This is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend surgery to correct the problem or medication to control the pain. Osteochondrosis Dissecans OCD : This orthopedic condition, caused by improper growth of cartilage in the joints, usually occurs in the elbows, but it has been seen in the shoulders, as well. It causes a painful stiffening of the joint, to the point that the dog is unable to bend his elbow. It can be detected in dogs as early as four to nine months of age. Cataracts : As in humans, canine cataracts are characterized by cloudy spots on the eye lens that can grow over time. Cataracts can usually be surgically removed with good results. Early in the disease, dogs become night-blind. As the disease progresses, they lose their daytime vision, as well. Many dogs adapt to limited or complete vision loss very well, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Epilepsy : Labs can suffer from epilepsy, which causes mild or severe seizures. Seizures may be exhibited by unusual behavior, such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Puppies are born with TVD, which is a malformation of the tricuspid valve on the right side of the heart. It can be mild or severe; some dogs live with no symptoms, others die. TVD is detected by ultrasound. Research is ongoing to learn how widespread it is in the breed, as well as treatment. Myopathy : Myopathy affects the muscles and nervous system. The first signs are seen early, as young as six weeks and often by seven months of age. A puppy with myopathy is tired, stiff when he walks and trots. He may collapse after exercise. In time, the muscles atrophy and the dog can barely stand or walk. There is no treatment, but rest and keeping the dog warm seems to reduce symptoms. Dogs with myopathy should not be bred because it is considered a heritable disease. Bloat occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists. The dog is unable to belch or vomit to rid themselves of the excess air in their stomach, and blood flow to the heart is impeded. Blood pressure drops and the dog goes into shock. Without immediate medical attention, the dog can die. Suspect bloat if your dog has a distended abdomen, is drooling excessively, and retching without throwing up. Theyalso may be restless, depressed, lethargic, and weak with a rapid heart rate. If you notice these symptoms, get your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Acute Moist Dermatitis: Acute moist dermatitis is a skin condition in which the skin red and inflamed. It is caused by a bacterial infection. The more common name of this health concern is hot spots. Treatment includes clipping the hair, bathing in medicated shampoo, and antibiotics. Cold Tail : Cold tail is a benign, though painful condition common to Labs and other retrievers. The dog may bite at the tail. It is thought to be a problem with the muscles between the vertebrae in the tail. Weekly checking and cleaning if necessary helps prevent infection. Labrador Retriever Care The lovable Lab needs to be around their family, and is definitely not a backyard dog. Labs show some variation in their activity levels, but all of them need activity, both physical and mental. Daily minute walks, a romp at the dog park, or a game of fetch, are a few ways to help your Lab burn off energy. However, a puppy should not be taken for too long walks and should play for a few minutes at a time. It is up to you to end play and training sessions. Without training, a rambunctious Lab puppy will soon grow to be a very large, rowdy dog. Luckily, Labs take to training well; in fact, they often excel in obedience competitions. Start with puppy kindergarten , which not only teaches your pup good canine manners, but helps them learn how to be comfortable around other dogs and people. Look for a class that uses positive training methods that reward the dog for getting it right, rather than punishing them for getting it wrong. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility, with its one-inch jumps. Labrador Retriever Feeding Recommended daily amount: 2. Over those years we have accumulated hundreds of cute Lab puppy pics. We even have pictures from one of our puppies who went to Panama and also Brazil. Long ago storage and organizing these puppy pics became a problem and I bet we have lost more cute puppy pics than we have kept. On this web page are some of the Labrador Retriever puppy pics and some older Lab pics as well. They are an example of the quality of dog we work as breeder to breed and fill the lives of their handlers with joy for years and years. Many of our Lab puppies have gone on to serve as service dogs, emotional support dogs and therapy dogs. There have also been working dogs who have been placed in homes of people with Autism and dogs who can alert a diabetic to low blood sugar. They really are amazing animals if you train them properly. And if you decide to adopt one of your Labradors you can visit the puppy page here. So, take your time, look around, and learn all there is to know about your breeder. We hope you enjoyed the cute lab puppy pics! If you are ready to apply for one of our lab puppies, try to pull yourself away from the cute puppy pics and click the button.

It is also cheerful, happy and friendly, also getting along well with strangers and greeting them happily, a trait inherited from its Pug parent, which does not make it an efficient watchdog. The Shug dog also shares a good rapport with children of every age but should be socialized before they get to interact with dogs or other pets. Care Exercise Because of its active nature, it needs to be taken out for a brisk walk on a regular basis, coupled with sufficient play time. They would also do well in an apartment, provided they have sufficient toys to play with or enough stuff to be kept busy. Grooming As they shed less, their grooming requirements are also low, sufficing with a weekly brushing for excess hair removal. You should also wipe its eyes and ears with a moist cotton ball on a weekly basis, brush its teeth and clean its nails, to maintain proper hygiene. Health Problems Though a healthy and hardy breed, it might develop some of the health concerns of both its parents like hip dysplasia, breathing difficulties, gastric dilation volvulus, bloating, arthritis and brachycephalic syndrome. Training Its inherent intelligence may make it easy to grasp training, though it needs a firm master who can deal with its strong-willed nature tactfully. Socialization: Teach your Shug puppies to get along well with other pets as well as people whom they do not know. You can invite friends to your home who have dogs or even take them to a dog park so that they may be acquainted with other dogs and gradually get to know how to interact with them. Obedience: You should train your Shug puppy with commands to control its stubbornness. Once it succeeds, reward it with treats and praises. Practice this many times so that your dog instantly comes the moment you call him even if it is distracted by something else. Housetraining: This should be started simultaneously with obedience training. Take them outside every 2 hours from the beginning. Always make your dog eliminate at one particular spot so that he can associate it with relieving itself. Reward it appropriately with praises and treats whenever your dog does a good job. Feeding Give your Shug dog high-quality dry dog food in combination with a nutritious homemade diet. However, overeating may affect their health adversely, so you need to keep a check on their diet. Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. Photo by crazydaisyshug IG Treat your search for a Shug puppy as an adventure, as it may take you some extra time and effort to look for one. We also gathered some trusted advertising sites for puppies and dogs where you can look for a Shug puppy. Here are some sources where you can find German Shepherd Pug mix puppies for sale: Buckeye Puppies — This online advertising platform connects buyers to local breeders of Shugs and pet shops in Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan. They strive to make the puppy purchasing process as safe as possible for both the buyer and seller. They regularly scan their website listings and monitor feedback from users to ensure credibility. Best Friends Forever Puppies — With over 30 years of experience in matching families with their ideal companion, Best Friends Forever Puppies offers a great selection of both registered and designer breed puppies including the German Shepherd Pug mix. They also have a one-year health guarantee along with up-to-date vaccinations, a complimentary wellness exam, and bath and trim services for their dogs. Greenfield Puppies — Greenfield Puppies has been helping buyers find a reputable breeder for over 20 years. Their website advertises breeders of various pure and mixed breeds such as Shugs located throughout Pennsylvania and surrounding states. They ensure healthy and humane breeding practices for their puppies and verify the reputation of their breeders via background checks. If you want to adopt a Pug German Shepherd mix instead, here are some rescues you can check out: Westside German Shepherd Rescue of Los Angeles — This non-profit rescue organization is committed to saving German Shepherds, all types and mixes, from high-kill shelters. They adopt and provide them with loving, qualified homes. They provide vet care, safety, and food and place the rescued dogs in qualified foster homes with their volunteers until they get adopted. Pug Rescue of Austin — Located in Austin, Texas, this all-volunteer non-profit organization is dedicated to the rescue, healthcare, and rehoming of abused, unwanted, and neglected Pugs and Pug mixes. There are also rescue organizations for Pugs and German Shepherds that you can try contacting. Since taking care of a dog is a commitment, you have to be certain that you really want a Shug dog in your life! Here are the pros of owning a Pug German Shepherd mix: Unique looks: German Shepherd Pug mixes can have different physical characteristics that they can inherit from either of their purebred parents or a combination of them. Some may look more like a German Shepherd, while others resemble the Pug more. The bottom line is that each Shug dog will have a distinctive adorable appearance! Great temperament: The German Shepherd Pug mix is a sociable, affectionate, fiercely loyal, obedient, playful, and intelligent dog. These good traits are their foundation as good companion dogs. German Shepherd Pug mixes are so friendly that they get along easily with anyone. Low shedding and grooming needs: The short coats of Shug dogs make their grooming low-maintenance. Lots of dog owners find them convenient to take care of compared to other dogs. Just as long as their needs are met, from nutritional to emotional needs, then the Shug will be there for you. Manage this by exerting more effort, patience, and determination when training. Dedicate ample time, love, and attention to your dog not just because they need them but because you care for them. They tend to get curious about their surroundings and people. These can change through early socialization. German Shepherd Pug mixes indeed inherit most of the best qualities from the Pug and German Shepherd genes. Lifespan Sociability Shugs are a new breed for the market so putting a price on them is pretty much the Wild West at the moment. You can try your luck at your local dog shelter when searching for a dog and you might be able to find a mixed dog that resembles the Shug. When you bring a Shug into your home, be ready to have a playful and sociable dog with you. They love spending time with their family and are known to be quite needy so make sure you can spend a lot of time with your dog if you decide to go after a Shug. On the one hand, this is actually a good thing. On the other hand, it means that breeders can sell any puppy and call it a Shug without any repercussions. Talk to other people who have bought puppies there, and look for any negative press. Shugs are different from Pug-Zus. A Shug is a mixture of a Pug and a German Shepherd. Pugs are the favored dog of royalty. Move over, Corgis! They love playing and getting attention. First, they love strangers too much to be good guard dogs. Nowadays, Pugs and Shugs are more likely to rush over to interlopers and wag their tails than to bark and summon help. Second, Shugs are prone to separation anxiety. Again, nothing is a substitute for meeting the pup and its parents before any money changes hands. Choose an organic dog food with real ingredients , avoiding by-products and gluten meal, and feed your Shug two cups per day. It loves a brisk walk through the park as much as it loves to eat and nap. In order to maintain its healthy weight, you should exercise your Shug about 45 minutes a day, using a combination of walks and toys. If it gets more of its German Shepherd side, it will be able to handle longer walks. If your Shug looks more like a Pug, go easy on the outdoor exercise on hot days. The good news on that front is that Shugs are happy to spend most of their time indoors. This makes them great dogs for people living in apartments. However, German Shepherds are work dogs bred to accept training. Shugs are almost never aggressive. Their biggest problem behaviors are disobedience and potty training. To housebreak a Shug puppy, consistency is key: take it outside at regular intervals, and make sure it always relieves itself in the same spot. Brush its teeth and nails at the same time, if you can. Dysplasia is more common in German Shepherds, while obstructed airways are a bigger risk for Pugs. Bloat and allergies are potential problems in both breeds. Minor Conditions Allergies: Both Pugs and German Shepherds might suffer from allergies, which can cause red, itchy skin around their eyes and ears. German Shepherds frequently suffer from dysplasia, a trait they can pass down to Shugs. An honest breeder will screen out parents who might be at risk of dysplasia. Male vs Female Male and female Shugs look and act very similar. On average, females are about an inch shorter than males. Compared to the differences between mixes that favor one parent or the other, though, gender distinctions are pretty minimal. Separation anxiety and stubbornness are a problem, as is the fact that this breed is a bit of a barker. See also:. His face and personality was all pug, I didn't notice any German Shepherd traits other than his coloring and size. He loves dogs, people, and pretty much everything else. He is very food-motivated as well, and will drool at the sight of food. He makes little honking noises when he runs the pug part of him , especially when chasing new friends at the dog park. He loves to chase the skunks in his backyard too. He also loves snuggles, and will usually sleep in and go to bed at night when he is tired all on his own. His owners are Chelsea and Patrick Lapienis, with the former telling Newsweek: "He's a lovable goofball who is super sweet and very excitable. He loves playing fetch, hide and seek, and even has some puzzles that he likes to solve. He loves meeting people and dogs alike, and is friends with his vet. The adorable mutt is a result of a pug crossed with a German Shepherd. Chelsea Lapienis She revealed his unusual parentage, adding: "We were told that the mother was a pug, and the father was actually a 6-month-old German Shepard who wasn't fixed yet. They don't usually breed this mix, so he was definitely a surprise. He was 7 lbs when we got him at 2 months, so he was a decent size. When we met him, it was an instant attachment, and we are so happy that we added him to our family. He is also a huge cuddler who loves to snuggle when possible. He has very high energy levels and very low energy levels at times. At first glance his body resembles a German Shepherd, but where does that curly tail come from? Place your bets on his unique mix, but you will never guess it. This is Goblin, and he's a pug and German shepherd mix. While I assume this was an oopsie, somewhere out there there's a very determined pug daddy who must be held accountable for making every owner from this litter laugh for the next 15 years. Turns out Goblin's mom is a pug, and his dad was a six-month-old German Shepherd. Chelsea Lapienis De Prophetis, who's been a professional pet groomer for more than 10 years, talked viewers through the grooming process, including sharing some excellent slow-motion footage of Goblin being blow-dried. She continued: "After his bath, I towel him dry, and I spray him down in our quick dry spray and he is very excited to show you how adorable he looks, in the not so happy hoody. During his blow dry I noticed that my favorite thing about him is his flapping nostrils. While the pug part of him tried to stay positive, the German shepherd part was not enthused. After he is dry, I de-shed this majestic mongrel, with the EquiGroomer, and then I clip his nails. Pugs are usually difficult for nail clipping, and naturally he had to give me some sass. So I gave him the finger. He made me laugh for an hour straight. And that only continued as he bucked around my yard. Thank you so much for watching, I hope you enjoyed the goofy Goblin. Sweetums reckoned: "I refuse to believe this isn't just two pugs in a trench coat. While Plague raved: "He's beautiful. I've never seen such a great mix. Its ears may be erect like the German Shepherd or floppy as that of the pug. Its tail also bears a striking resemblance to that of a pug, curling comfortably on its back. Goblin is a year old, and his litter was an accident. ET: This article was updated with comment, video and photos from De Prophetis. ET: This article was updated with comment and photos from Lapienis. Where should you look for a shug? What is a shug? It might not be that obvious from the name, but the shug is a result of crossing the German shepherd with the pug. Thanks to the diverse possibilities of genetic combination, the resulting puppies are unique. In fact, you can get significant diversity in the same litter although all are born from the same father. Crossbreeding is usually a challenge since carrying German shepherd pug mix pups to term for any pug mother can be risky. It is also a challenge for the pug males to impregnate a big German shepherd female. As a result, the insemination and fertilization process are artificial for the German shepherd mother. The process uses the sperms from the pug father. In most cases, the German shepherd and the pug parents are purebreds. How does the German shepherd contribute to the awesomeness of a shug? Although German shepherd was an exclusively herding breed, people have trained them over the years to be outstanding guard dogs, guide dogs, and service dogs. Their exceptional intelligence and lifelong aptitude for learning have aided the process. They are amazing family dogs shug dog due to their loving nature. They are faithful guide dogs for the disabled and search-and-rescue dogs for the police. The military forces and police forces in the US rely on GSDs due to their incredible ability to learn fast. They can be indifferent and aloof towards strangers. However, incorrect socialization, improper training and lack of enough activity can cause them to become aggressive and destructive. They are not natural loners and leaving them alone in an apartment can result in aggressive behavior problems and separation anxiety. They have the tendency to act dominant especially in an environment with other pets and smaller children. Unless you can train and socialize your GSD properly, you should think twice before leaving them with an unknown sitter or your children and other pets at home. They become bored frequently and not paying them enough attention will lead to chewing problems. Why are pugs the ideal parent for a mix breed pup? Pugs have recently shot to popularity thanks to television commercials and Hollywood movies. They have become an integral part of the pop culture. Although they were nearly as popular as GSDs about two decades ago, they have been around longer than most dog breeds. Their first mention is in the works of Confucius in BC. They have always symbolized royalty and luxury. There was a time when pugs had their private quarters, personal guards and dedicated servants. They originated in China , and they are now ruling over the world with their cuteness. They are stout and round. They have snubbed faces, and they are goofy. In fact, their fun-loving nature has made them popular in countries across the world. From millionaires to middle-class families, everyone loves them due to their happy-go-lucky attitude. However, do not be fooled by their innocent appearance. Behind those huge round eyes is a sharp brain that can even fool humans. In truth, human beings are their second love since food always takes the first place, and pugs will do anything from begging to deceiving to get a slice of that pepperoni pizza. Pugs are smart, and they can be obedient when you are ready to listen to them as well. They do not like to be pushed around, so be careful about treating the small guys with respect. They adjust with other dogs, pets, and children in the house marvelously. They are ideal for larger homes as well as smaller city apartments, as long as you are ready to commit to a walk in the park every day. Why is a shug puppy so undeniably cute? As a result, we expect the shug to be affectionate, friendly, intelligent, smart, naughty and playful. In fact, they are all of that are more! Thankfully, they are not big shedders and grooming them is never a pain. Training them is quite easy too since they inherit the obedience from their GSD parent and the quick wit from their Pug parent. Most Shug owners confirm that training them is a rather fun and interactive process. They are brave and obedient like the German shepherds. Shug is suitable for small families as they are for the large ones. They can adjust to apartment life as easily as they can adapt to a farmhouse living. They need plenty of exercises since they inherit oodles of energy from each parent. Shug dog is an active breed, and you need to keep them active to maintain their good health. They are highly dependent on human interactions, and they require emotional bonds. Therefore, unless you can spend more than a couple of hours with your dog, you should not think about getting a shug. Unlike other big dog and pug mixes, the shug is a standard crossbreed. Although the facial features, coat colors, limb features and tail type can vary between the different litters of the same parent, their overall friendly attitude does not waiver. Just like most other mixed breeds , the pug and German shepherd mix do not receive an AKC certification or the clearance to participate in dog shows. However, several AKC approved breeders do support the cross of these two breeds. Look for breeders or dog owners, who have given away or sold Shug before to ensure that their litters are healthy and free from genetic ailments. Checking the review of the breeders, speaking with other shug parents and adopting from shelters does help in finding healthy mix breed puppies. Our staff are avid fans and dedicated owners of Pugs. We hope to answer all the questions you have about Pugs. Just read and enjoy. Feel free to share if you find it valuable to others! Best regards, German Shepherd Pug Mix: Two Dogs From Vastly Different Backgrounds German Shepherds have a rich working heritage, first as herders and protectors of livestock and later as police and war dogs, guide dogs, search and rescue animals, and guard dogs. Stephanitz developed the breed further through closely-related offspring such as Beowulf and herding dogs tending sheep across the plains of Germany. The Pug is among the most ancient of dog breeds. Pugs roamed China as early as the Han Dynasty, which spanned from B. However, evidence suggests an earlier foundation for the breed in the Lo-Sze Dog of B. Not only have Pugs served as loyal companions their entire history, but they also once almost exclusively accompanied royalty. Persons of the crown would display a special preference for the little dogs for decades to come. Pugs found their way to Europe in the s and s, and gained overwhelming popularity along with other purebred dogs during the Victorian Age when they shared the spotlight with the Poodle and German Shepherd. They had short coats, so while Victorians could not figure out an attractive haircut for Pugs, they dressed the dogs in elaborate collars and bows around their necks. Like many German-Shepherd-based designer dogs, such as the Shottie or Doberman Shepherd , the Shug often has a readily recognizable appearance and demeanor. However, the two parent breeds are so different you can obtain widely different variations that can resemble a rare breed or one of the purebred parents. How big will your dog be? German Shepherds are two feet tall at the shoulders, give or take a couple of inches. Females tend to be slightly shorter than males. The AKC does not specify a weight standard, but most Shepherds are between 65 and 90 pounds. Contrast the Shepherd with the Pug, who stands 10 to 12 inches tall and weighs 15 to 18 pounds. Females are slightly smaller than males. Shugs are usually of a size between their parents. They can range from the upper height of the Pug at 12 inches to significantly shorter than a Shepherd at 15 inches tall. Most Shepherd Pug hybrids weigh 45 to 50 pounds, making them medium-sized dogs. What color will your German Shepherd Pug mix be? He can have black markings from a saddle pattern to most of his body. Pugs are most commonly fawn with a distinctive black mask, but Lady Brassey popularized solid black Pugs around and they have seen a recent resurgence. With the coloration selection from their parents, Shugs can be black and tan patterned like a Shepherd, or the colors may be marbled. They are more often fawn, like Pugs. Other possibilities are silver fawn, solid black, or brindle. What other traits should you look for besides color and size? Shepherds are medium-large dogs with a rectangular moderately sloping topline from shoulders to croup. Ideally, they should have a length to height ratio of 10 to 8 or 8. The German Shepherd has a low-slung, relatively long, somewhat bushy tail that curves slightly upward at the end. German Shepherds have a long moderately narrow snout with powerful jaws and tight lips. The shoulders and neck are long, facilitating an effortless and efficient stride, especially when trotting. Shepherds move with grace and speed, showing off their specialty as working dogs. They have deep chests that facilitate enhanced cardiac function and stamina. Pugs are tiny with a compact build that should never appear lean. They have a curly tail that frequently has two or more spirals. Their ears are medium and somewhat forward-facing as they lay against their round heads. Pugs have an extremely short muzzle with wrinkles considered good luck by the Chinese and round bulging eyes. It is difficult to say what their paws will be like, given the major differences in size and appearance between the two dogs. A Shug will likely not appear as stocky or rotund as a Pug but will have more of a square conformation than a Shepherd. The hybrid usually has semi-prick button ears similar to a Pit Bull. Shugs usually have a broad and deep chest like a Shepherd and a shortened muzzles with neither the flat-faced exaggeration nor the facial folds of the Pug. Their eyes are round with varying degrees of bugging. Temperaments of Shugs vary more than their looks Does Shugs make great guard dogs? While a Shepherd Pug mix will not likely guard your property very well, they tend to warn against intruders. Socialization is crucial for Shugs to keep them from developing fearfulness or shyness. Are German Shepherd Pug hybrids good family dogs? Shugs who inherit a balanced blend of genes from their parents make excellent family companions. They are happy, friendly, loyal, and eager to please and entertain. Hybrids may inherit temperament and personality traits to varying degrees and thus, your Shug can gain any mix of tenaciousness, focus, and courage from the Shepherd and charm, humor, and gentleness from the Pug. Will your dog be good around children? German Shepherds often must receive training as well as socialization to be safe around children. Although Shepherds do not target kids for misplaced aggression, they can become irritable with teasing and maybe on guard against unfamiliar young people. Pugs enjoy everyone, including children. To a Pug, a child is another person who can touch and love on her. The Shug usually is very tolerant of and even affectionate with children. Although it is not advisable to leave dogs unsupervised with toddlers and infants, the Shepherd Pug mix seems to thrive around people of any age. Will your Shug tolerate your guests? Shepherd-Pugs are usually friendly and outgoing with strangers. A dog who inherits more of his personality from the German Shepherd may be indifferent or somewhat aloof with your guests. However, a well-socialized Shug dog is neither aggressive nor fearful. What about other pets? Historians and behaviorists alike, according to Petplace. German Shepherds tend to chase small animals, although, with proper training, they can learn to get along with cats and small dogs. Some individuals do better with other animals than others. German Shepherds may also have issues with dogs their size because they generally learned to work independently as opposed to hounds who work in packs. Moreover, the Shepherd has a history that includes some dogfighting. Males tend to be more dog aggressive than females, but same-sex aggression with either gender is not uncommon. Shugs usually get along well with other dogs. It is always a great idea to socialize your puppy at a young age, so she does not grow up shy and suspicious around other canids. The most effective way to deal with dogs who have the temptation to chase small animals is to train unquestioning obedience. How easy are Shugs to train? According to Apa. Stanley Coren , a renowned psychologist, ranks dogs similarly and according to three intelligence categories. Based on instinctual intelligence, adaptive learning, and obedience, Coren places German Shepherds No. Both the Shepherd and the Pug can pose challenges with training. Shepherds sometimes exhibit dominance and pushiness, while Pugs often demonstrate willfulness and an inability to focus. Pugs are reputably difficult to house train. They possess intelligence inherited from the Shepherd but can acquire some stubbornness from the Pug. Shugs require persistent training and exposure to consistent mental stimulation. Boredom can cause them to be destructive like the Shepherd, digging, chewing, and barking. The Shepherd Pug hybrid also needs constant human companionship like his Pug parent and will react with depression if left on his own. How much exercise does your dog need? Pugs are enthusiastic but fairly sedentary dogs. Their snub noses create a plethora of problems collectively called brachycephalic syndrome that causes exercise to be uncomfortable and, in some cases, life-threatening. Brachycephalic complications stem mostly from trouble breathing. Narrow or stenotic nares increases resistance to drawing air into the sinuses. Elongated soft palate — Behind the ridges on the roof of the mouth is a flat area going towards the throat that is called the soft palate. In Bulldogs, Pugs, and similar dogs, the soft palate often extends past where it normally should and can partially obstruct the epiglottis. Hypoplastic trachea — The trachea or windpipe does not fully develop in short-nosed breeds, meaning the tubular structure is narrow and can collapse in some individuals, making it even more difficult for the dog to breathe. Moreover, as the animal finds more difficulty breathing the trachea collapses even more with the effort. Brachycephalic breeds will easily suffer respiratory distress with heat, stress, or excessive exercise. Their shortened muzzles also predispose them to heatstroke because their sinuses are not long enough to cool inhaled air. The exercise requirements of your Shug will vary depending on her conformation. If your dog has inherited a greatly shortened snout, she will not tolerate as much exercise as a canine with a more normal muzzle. One way you can tell if your dog potentially suffers from brachycephalic syndrome is frequent snuffling, snorting, reverse sneezing, or loud breathing, also known as stridor. Your pup may also snore loudly. Dogs who struggle to breathe are inherently exercise-intolerant and brief walks at multiple times during the day are best. You should mix a brisk walk with 10 to 15 minutes of vigorous activity, like running or romping. You can play fetch or Frisbee. Combine physical exercise with training or interactive mental games. Shugs do not tolerate temperature extremes at all The German Shepherd is one of the most weather-resistant dogs you can own. This same double coat provides insulation and exceptional air circulation in the heat. Although the Pug often has a double coat, it is of rather thin hair. Most black Pugs do not even have an undercoat. A sparse coat alone tells you the Pug probably will not do well when it is cold outside. Their thin coats do not offer much insulation, and their short sinuses do not cool inhaled air much before it reaches the lungs. Pugs must not venture outside when it is hot, and you must monitor their exercise at all times. Therefore, a Shug mix will do moderately better than a Pug in cold weather and will need limitations on activity when it is warm outside. Look for any signs of respiratory difficulty in your German Shepherd Pug mix or tiring easily during exercise. If your Shug shows any laboring, immediately bring him inside if possible. If not, cool him down immediately, using water if necessary. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke require immediate medical attention after you have taken efforts to cool the animal yourself. Signs of exercise intolerance are obvious, and unlike with other breeds, you should not encourage your Shug to work through it. Heavy panting Fatigue and exercise intolerance Difficulty breathing — Although many owners accept a certain degree of respiratory difficulty as normal for short-nosed breeds, you should not ignore it in your Shug. Heavy panting — A German Shepherd can pant heavily and be fine. If your Shug is panting heavily, you may have exercised her too hard. It is a sign of heat exhaustion if it is warm out. Drooling Bright red mucus membranes Shugs live as long as Pugs Despite having similar health problems, Pugs live significantly longer than English Bulldogs. Bulldogs live about seven years with a reported range of 8 to 10, while Pugs have a lifespan of about 12 to 15 years. They have a few breed-specific health problems in addition to the brachycephalic complex. Orthopedic disorders — The Pug is one of the small breeds prone to hip dysplasia as well as Legg-Calves-Perthes disease the head of the femur dies because the blood supply becomes interrupted and luxating patellas kneecaps dislocate during normal movement. Hemivertebra — Many dwarf dogs with curly or corkscrew tails can have moderate to serve deformities of the vertebrae. The severe case will become paralyzed. Pug Dog Encephalitis — Fatal immune-mediated inflammation that affects only Pugs and is hereditary. Corneal ulcers and lacerations — Depending upon how fast her face is and how bugged her eyes, a Pug is vulnerable to ocular injury. Keratoconjunctivitis sicca — Dry eye. Skin and ear infection — Frequently have allergies as a cause. Obesity — If a Pug becomes overweight, it exacerbates any breathing difficulties. German Shepherds live 10 to 12 years They have several health concerns, most of which have at least one genetic factor. Panosteitis — Painful bone inflammation of young growing dogs. Bloat — Complex involving gas and fluid distension of the stomach followed by life-threatening rotation; seen in deep-chested usually large breed dogs and Dachshunds. Orthopedic — Hip and elbow dysplasia. IVDD — Intervertebral disc disease or slipped disc. Degenerative myelopathy — Progressive nerve disease eventually leading to paralysis. Diabetes — Maybe related to the high incidence of pancreatitis. Pannus — Disorder of the cornea common in Shepherds. Seizure disorder Hemophilia — Bleeding disorder. Shugs have a similar lifespan to their Pug parents of 12 to 15 years. The hybrid tends to represent a vast improvement in terms of health over both parents. Hip dysplasia.

For the complete list please see our German Shepherd resource page. Some breeders will offer a discount if you buy more than one pup at a time and others may have higher prices due to having a champion bloodline or other desirable traits that can command a higher price. Prices vary for a few reasons: some breeders may be trying to make a profit, some may have high-quality dogs with champion bloodlines, and others may have puppies that have been well-socialized from an early age. If the price is too good to be true, it probably is and you should go look for a more reputable breeder. How to Find A Responsible German Shepherd Breeder in Nebraska The first thing you should do when trying to find a German Shepherd breeder in Nebraska is to go and talk with some of the other GSD owners that you know and see if they can recommend any good breeders to you. Another way of finding a responsible German Shepherd breeder in Nebraska is by going online. There are several online forums where reputable breeders love to post information about themselves and their dogs so that people can easily get in touch with them. You can also search for German Shepherd clubs in your area which will often have listings of quality breeders who are members of the group. Finally, there are several dog breeders associations in all states which you can ask for help when trying to find a responsible German Shepherd breeder in Nebraska. In some areas, all breeders have to be members of local kennel clubs so it is important to contact these organizations and see if they have any recommendations for reputable breeders in your area that you can talk with. These resources should prove helpful when attempting to find a good German Shepherd breeder in Nebraska and help ensure that you get a healthy puppy from a caring breeder who will stand by their dogs over the years. Many breeders, even those who are well-respected and experienced, offer their puppies up for sale online so that they can reach out to people all over the country when trying to find good homes for their pups. However, it is always best when inquiring about one of these dogs to visit the breeder in person and see where the puppy was raised and socialized before making your final decision. This allows you to easily view any certificates or proof of health for both parents as well as seeing how the pups were cared for while still with their mother. Visiting the breeder will also allow you to ask them any questions about their experience with the breed, how they mate their dogs, and other important decisions that are necessary when raising German Shepherds. You can ask about what training or socialization has been done to prepare the pups for new homes and decide if this is something you feel comfortable with before moving forward. After seeing one of these reputable breeders in person and talking with them on the phone, it should be much easier to choose a breeder and see if their prices meet your budget as well as offering new families the right environment where the pup will thrive. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your German Shepherd Breeder in Nebraska When looking for a German Shepherd breeder in Nebraska to purchase your new puppy from, it is always important to ask if they have references you can contact. Many reputable breeders are happy to give you the names of people who have purchased their dogs in the past so that you can get an idea about what type of experience you may have while raising this dog. You will want to contact at least three people before making your final decision but getting firsthand information from previous owners regarding experiences with your specific breeder can be very helpful when trying to find a good place. Ask Your Nebraska German Shepherd Breeder if You Can Meet Past Customers If the German Shepherd breeder you are looking at purchasing a puppy from is reputable, they will more than likely allow you to meet some of their past customers. This is a great way to get an idea about what the dog is like and if it has been well-socialized. When meeting past customers, be sure to ask them lots of questions about their experience with the breeder as well as the dog itself. Meeting past customers can also help you identify any potential problems that you may encounter while raising your new puppy. A good breeder will have a veterinarian they work with frequently and who they feel is a very knowledgeable resource. They should not be afraid to give you the contact information of this veterinarian so that you can speak with them about any questions or concerns that may come up while your pup grows. If, by chance, your breeder does not have their own veterinarian in Nebraska, try to find out if they are registered with one of the established dog groups like AKC or Canine Health Foundation. These organizations maintain standards for canine health testing and care so working with these veterinarians ensures that your pup will be healthy throughout its life. You do not want to purchase a puppy from someone who cannot get it back in for regular checkups to ensure good health. A German Shepherd breeder in Nebraska should be willing to provide all of the above information to you before you make your purchase. They should also be able to provide a healthy, socialized puppy that has been raised in a clean and loving home. If the breeder cannot meet these minimum requirements, it is best to move on and find a different breeder. It is important to know the signs of an unethical German Shepherd dog breeder in Nebraska so that you can make sure you do not work with one when looking for your new pup. An unethical German Shepherd breeder will be very pushy to get you to sign the contract and pay them quickly. They should give you plenty of time to think about things before rushing into anything. Another sign of an unethical German Shepherd Dog Breeder in Nebraska is if they seem uninterested or unenthusiastic about you adopting their puppy. A good breeder wants to ensure that their pups go to good homes so they should care more than just a little bit about where their puppies end up. If the breeder cannot provide you with health certificates, registration papers, or a pedigree for the pup then they are likely not legitimate. These items are important when registering your dog and make sure that it came from healthy bloodlines. Finally, be on the lookout for breeders who have a lot of puppies available at any time of the year. This can lead to health problems so it is best to avoid these breeders in Nebraska. A good breeder will only have one or two litters available each year so they can properly care for them. A responsible breeder also does health screenings when necessary and takes their pups back when they are not sold in order to ensure that they receive proper veterinary care if anything comes up with the dog. At any rate, your new puppy should never be sick or diseased upon purchase. Taking them back to the breeder may be an option but it is still important that they remain in good hands. How to Prepare Your Home for Your German Shepherd Puppy Regardless of where you get your German Shepherd puppy, there are a few things you need to do in order to prepare your home for their arrival. The first is to set up a safe and comfortable area for the pup to sleep in. This can be a crate or an enclosed area like a small room. Make sure that there are no dangers lurking in the area such as poisonous plants, wires, or small objects that the pup could choke on. You will also want to have plenty of toys and chew items available for the pup so that they can keep themselves busy. A bored German Shepherd can get into a lot of trouble so make sure that you provide them with plenty of stimulation. Finally, start obedience training right away. This will help to ensure that your pup knows who is in charge and will help to prevent any bad behavior from developing. If you are not familiar with the method, here are some basics. Allow your pup to sleep in their crate at night and while you are gone during the day. This will help them feel secure and safe while also making it easier for them to be confined for long periods of time without having accidents on the floor. Place newspapers or puppy pads in the area that they are sleeping so that when they wake up they will have an appropriate place to go. You can also try taking them outside right before bedtime but this may not work every time. It is important that if they do have an accident you clean it immediately so that they do not get used to doing their business in the crate. This will help to reinforce good behavior and make sure that they understand what it is you are wanting them to do. Be consistent with your training and rewards and your pup should be potty trained within a few weeks. If you have any further questions about German Shepherd Dog Breeders in Nebraska, please feel free to reach out to us. We would be happy to help you in any way we can. Looking for a reputable German Shepherd breeder in Nebraska can be difficult, but there are some best German Shepherd breeders in Nebraska. Best of luck with finding your perfect furry friend. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. We are committed to utilizing world class, imported German Shepherd dogs from top producing West German Shepherd lines. GSD puppies are a great addition to family homes as well as excellent dogs for a variety of jobs. Because of their intelligence and quick-learning abilities, this breed has long been used for a range of tasks from herding to home protection. German Shepherds are one of the most popular breeds in the country and our dogs are the cream of the crop. At four weeks, we introduce all pups to the outdoors, and at six weeks, we start all puppies on the NuVet supplement, building a foundation for a strong, long healthy life. How are your GSD puppies raised and when can I take my puppy home? Our puppies receive top-quality care from the moment they are born. The Mom dog and her puppies have private whelping rooms away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the kennel. Starting at 3 days of life, each puppy is exposed to Early Neurological Stimulation. ENS is a set of short exercises which serve to stimulate the neurological system in a young puppy and has been proven to strengthen the heart, increase resistance to diseases, and produce greater tolerance of stress. As the puppies become older they are introduced to more and more new things around the kennel and are socialized with many people, young and old. Puppies can go to their new homes at 8 weeks. Give us your preferred puppy specifications and expectations and we will do our best to surpass them Breeding purebred West German Showline German Shepherds are our passion. If you share our passion and is looking for a German Shepherd breeder that specializes in providing the highest quality show dogs, protection dogs, working dogs, or family companions, your search just ended. All of our puppies have plenty of wide open spaces to get all of the physical exercise their growing bodies need. We show and work with our dogs and try to improve the German Shepherd breed We follow strict German guidelines and health testing SV Our puppies are raised at home and are well socialized. We try to housebreak puppies as well before their new homes Roche's Pedigree German Shepherds is located within Chicago Illinois area. They are black and red in color. We breed dogs that pass hips and elbows evaluation, and have earned their schutzhund titles. We strive to breed healthy dogs with best bloodlines in mind. For more information, please contact Jeff Roche at or simply fill out a very brief form below. Thank you for your interest in Roche's Pedigree German Shepherds and we look forward to hearing from you. Please, call ahead to schedule your visit. Appointment is not warrantees the sale. We have a right to sell the dog at any time. 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.

Feeding your puppy a high-quality , complete and balanced puppy food helps set him up for a long and healthy life as an adult dog. This raises a lot of questions for first-time and even veteran puppy owners, though. How much should you feed your puppy and when? When should you stop feeding puppy food? Get answers to these questions and more in our complete puppy feeding guide below. Our experts answer your questions and offer advice to help set you and your puppy up for success. What to Feed a Puppy When it comes to feeding puppies, there are a lot of factors to consider. Overall nutrition, breed size and the type of food all play a role. Feeding puppies a complete and balanced puppy food ensures they get the proper nutrition to develop and grow into healthy adult dogs. Puppy foods are formulated with a balance of nutrients to help puppies grow up healthy and happy. Look for formulas rich in high-quality proteins to support their growing bodies. Fat and carbohydrates supply the energy active and playful puppies need, while calcium supports developing teeth and bones and DHA helps support healthy brain and vision development. If you have a large breed puppy, he may benefit from a large breed-specific puppy formula. Small breeds can also benefit from small breed-specific puppy formulas. Regardless of breed size, the food should be complete and balanced for growing puppies. The difference in formulas comes down to the unique needs of large and small breeds. Large dogs have a higher risk of developing joint problems, so a large breed puppy food should include proper levels of nutrients to support their healthy growth and development. Small breeds may prefer smaller kibble so they can more easily chew their food, which helps ensure they get all the nutrients they need. This results in a nutrient-dense, high-energy formula which adults and puppies need to support a healthy lifestyle. As you walk the dog food aisles, you may see both dry and wet puppy food s. This can make it harder to decide what to feed your puppy. Fortunately, as long as both the wet and dry formulas are complete and balanced for growing puppies, you can feed either one to your pup with confidence. You and your puppy may have a preference when it comes to dry versus wet. Feeding a combination of the two is also an option. Use the calories reported on the package to understand how much wet food will replace the dry and vice versa. In this scenario, you could substitute a thirteen-ounce can of wet food for one cup of the daily dry food recommendation. How Much to Feed a Puppy Now you know what to feed your puppy, but just how much food does he need each day? A Labrador Retriever will weigh more at maturity than a Russell Terrier , for example. So, the larger dog requires more food as a puppy. The chart below can help you determine how much dry food to feed your puppy. You should also review the specific feeding instructions on the back of his puppy food and consult with your veterinarian. Puppy Feeding Chart. A low-calorie diet is enough for an older dog, but it should still be full of nutrients. Moderate protein and fat content are still needed. Typically, Golden Retriever puppies need to be fed at least three times daily. Meanwhile, adult and senior Golden Retrievers are satisfied with two meals per day. A Golden Retriever puppy should be fed three times a day at scheduled intervals until it reaches six months. You may divide the three meals into breakfast, lunch, and dinner. When your Golden Retriever puppy turns six months, you can begin feeding it twice a day until it reaches adulthood. For adult Golden Retrievers, the most ideal feeding schedule will be twice a day with equally spaced meals. You can give it high-quality food in the morning and evening. The same goes for senior dogs but with fewer calories. For an easier routine, you can create a customized feeding plan based on your daily schedule or commitments. A proper routine also prevents under and overfeeding. As Golden Retrievers have a ravenous appetite, you might be tempted to feed your dog often. But you should be firm and watchful to avoid any weight-related problems. Here, we provided the optimal feeding times you can follow for your Golden Retriever: 2 to 6 months: am — am, pm, pm 7 months to 8 years and above: am — am, pm — pm Ideally, you should not feed your Golden Retriever puppy after pm. Instead, give your pup an ice cube to chew on when it gets thirsty. Your Golden Retriever puppy should also be fed in the same area daily without distractions. This way, your young puppy can focus on eating its puppy food. Allot around 20 to 30 minutes for your Golden puppy to finish its meal. Remember that some Golden Retrievers like to gorge on more food while some are finicky. Keep your pooch lean with the right feeding schedule, feeding amounts, and proper physical activity. You can also consult your vet for more insights. You may give your pooch kibbles or cold-pressed dog food. Both are packed with necessary ingredients that are filled with nutrients! It can be a bit costly, but wet dog food is still a better choice for Golden Retrievers that are picky eaters and for senior Golden Retrievers, too. You may either mix them or alternate the two at every meal. Just make sure that when you take this approach, your pooch is getting the right food with proper calorie and nutrition requirements. Complete Raw Diet: Feeding your Golden Retriever raw food should be fine after it turns three to four weeks. However, feeding dogs with this option is linked to many food safety concerns. Meanwhile, freeze-dried dog food is also a raw food that has been repacked. Both have no preservatives added and are easy to store with long shelf lives. When choosing the best dog food for your Golden Retriever, you should take into account the ingredients, nutrient details, and feeding instructions as well. Based on the general guidelines, the nutrients you should be looking for besides meat products or animal protein and fats are high-quality grains such as brown rice. Fruits, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals are also vital. This can be ideal for dogs that are sensitive to different types of grain. But grain-free food has been controversial due to its link with heart disease. Your vet can also help you personalize a diet plan for your dog. Curious to see what a homemade meal looks like for Golden Retrievers? Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers are known for their strong appetite, and on top of this, they are also curious. Several foods are toxic to Golden Retrievers, such as chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, walnuts, and macadamia nuts. Alcoholic drinks and foods that contain xylitol are also dangerous for your dog. Even a tiny amount of alcohol can cause severe issues to your dog, such as vomiting, and diarrhea, among others. Meanwhile, xylitol is an artificial sweetener that is also unsafe for your pooch. If your Golden Retriever consumes too much xylitol, it can result in a dangerously low blood sugar level and even acute liver failure. This substance is usually found in sweet candies, gums, cookies, and the like, so make sure that you check what treats you give your dog. Read food labels or buy organic brands instead. Other vegetables that are harmful to your Golden Retriever are Brussel sprouts, kale, and wild mushrooms. The pits, skins, and leaves of avocados contain a toxin called persin. Meanwhile, cherries contain cyanide which can be extremely harmful to your dog. You may also consult your vet to check the safety of specific foods, especially if your pooch has allergies or sensitivities. These gradual transitions typically occur over 5 to 7 days. Look for formulas that are high in protein with smaller kibble pieces, checking the label to ensure it is a complete and nutritious diet. Many people assume that there is no difference between puppy and adult food, but the difference lies in the nutritional value. Wet canned food is often something new dog owners ask about, though wet food tends to be better suited for smaller breeds. While overfeeding tends to happen way more, underfeeding can be dangerous as puppies are still developing. If your puppy is growing and is not gaining enough weight, consider adding a little more food. If your puppy seems to look a little round or bloated, overfeeding can be the cause. When to Switch from Puppy to Adult Food The switch from puppy food to adult food is an important process and needs to be done at the right time. The general consensus is to switch anywhere between 6 months to 1 year old, though it will depend on how well your Golden puppy has developed. As we discussed earlier, puppy food is very protein and nutrient-rich to support growth and development. However, adult food is different and can cause indigestion. If there have been no immediate signs of indigestion after incorporating the adult food , make the full switch over to it. First and foremost, if your puppy has suddenly stopped eating and will also not eat treats, call your vet as soon as you can. This can be a sign of a more serious condition and may need emergency treatment, depending on other symptoms. Thankfully, picky eating can be solved by switching to a new formula, protein source, or brand. Be careful not to try too many brands at once to avoid indigestion, especially if you are also changing the type of protein as well. Generally, the average amount of food an Adult Golden Retriever eats is around 3—5 cups a day. The problem is that each dog is different and will have its own specific needs. Factors like age, gender, energy levels, and lifestyle are all things that will increase or decrease the amount of food given. When in doubt, consult with your veterinarian to prevent malnutrition or obesity, both of which can lead to more serious conditions if left unchecked. We recommend looking for a dry kibble formulated for large breed senior dogs, which will have nutrients to help support their heart and joint health. The amount will also depend on how active your senior Golden is, as well as size and gender. Again, the best option is to simply ask your vet for guidance on how much to feed. Golden Retrievers are naturally food-motivated dogs, so it may seem like your Golden is constantly hungry. Spotting the difference between a food-obsessed dog and a truly hungry dog is crucial, which can be done by observing any sudden change in their growth or appetite. Is your dog looking leaner than normal? Is your dog inhaling food at lightning speed? Since Goldens really enjoy mealtime, a slow feeder is usually recommended. This will also help prevent bloat and other similar problems from eating too fast. We also recommend a feeding schedule instead of free feeding, since dogs, in general, do best on a routine. Most dog food brands are perfectly safe for Golden Retrievers, but there are some things to avoid. Conclusion Golden Retrievers are fairly active dogs that will need quite a bit of food a day, especially for more active and athletic dogs. Feeding your dog the correct amount is crucial to a healthy and happy Golden, but it can be confusing with conflicting information on the internet. We made this guide and Golden Retriever feeding chart to make it easier to understand how to feed your Golden puppy, adult, or senior. The range of amounts is based on the activity of your Golden for the day, either low, moderate, or high level of activity. Golden Retrievers should have scheduled times to eat daily. The scheduled times will help them with their energy levels and keep them healthy. You can schedule their eating times as to what works best for your schedule. For example, feeding them before you leave for work and then when you get home. As a puppy, they will eat three times a day, so you will need to find times in those first few months to feed them more often. When they are an adult or senior, the scheduling of feeding times will be easier because they will only eat twice daily. For a Golden Retriever puppy, the best feeding schedule is once in the morning, noontime, and in the evening. For example, you could feed their first meal at am, lunch at noon, then dinner at pm. Planning their mealtimes around your mealtimes will often make it easier for you and the puppy. Make sure to give them plenty of time after eating to got to the bathroom a couple of times before heading to bed. Hopefully, this will help them sleep for a longer period. After about six months, your Golden Retriever can go down to two daily feedings. This usually occurs once in the morning and once in the evening. They can usually last about 12 hours between meals. If it goes past 12 hours, they could become nauseated. Golden Retrievers can experience food allergies often caused from proteins in dairy or meat products. If your dog experiences symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or itching they may have a food allergy. They warn that feeding dogs any raw animal-source protein could cause illness because it has not gone through a process to remove harmful pathogens. However, a raw diet can be healthy if you are willing to go through the extra cleaning processes of the meat. This is a lot of work and difficult to do correctly and safely. We do not recommend it without expert veterinary help. Before starting a raw diet with your Golden, be sure to consult a veterinarian. Find one that is familiar with raw foods and can help with the proper handling of the foods. If you work hard to make sure your homemade foods are rich in the vitamins and minerals that a dog needs, then it might work for your Golden Retriever. It takes a lot more time to find recipes and make sure it has all the nutritional value of a store-bought dog food. If you are willing to research expertly formulated recipes internet is making it easier to do this , and take the time to cook for your golden then go for it! Consulting your veterinarian is a must before starting any homemade diet. A veterinary nutritionist should also review your plan before starting. Feeding your Golden Retriever table food is not the best practice but a small amount of dog healthy table food is fine. Some example table foods that are healthy for them are carrots, blueberries and plain yogurt. Just be aware that feeding them too much table food can throw their entire diet out of whack. They may not be getting enough vitamins and minerals like they do from their dog food. Conclusion Making sure your Golden Retriever is getting the right foods at the right amounts will help them live their best life. There are many choices of foods with all the right ingredients. Be sure to choose one that works best for you and your Golden. Consult with your veterinarian on which food will bring the most nutritional value to the health of your Golden Retriever. If your Golden is experiencing any health issues related to changing foods, visit your veterinarian. If this article was helpful, please consider sharing this post on Facebook with the button below! She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. Read the full disclosure here. Being a large and energetic dog, your golden retriever has a ravenous appetite and can eat a lot. However, overfeeding is never good and could be avoided with the help of a golden retriever feeding chart. Knowing how much to feed your golden retriever is always tricky but essential for their well-being and health. Goldens are prone to obesity and joint problems, which can only be exacerbated with an inadequate feeding plan. So, stay with me to find the right feeding plan and meal schedule for your goldie. Most first-time owners think their puppies should be chubby. In truth, golden retriever puppies are supposed to look lanky and act like they are always hungry when fed the correct amount of food. To encourage proper growth and development without making your pup obese, you will have to know how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. For example, cheaper foods use fillers and have a smaller amount of calories, thus you will have to feed more than you would when using premium large breed puppy foods. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. We all want our golden retriever puppies to be healthy and happy. We envision them running through a verdant field chasing a ball. Full of energy with the beautiful, lustrous golden coat. But, just like us, eating the proper food in the proper amounts will help your golden properly grow and thrive. After all, what we eat impacts how healthy we are. How much you should feed your golden retriever puppy will vary depending on the quality of food you feed, his age, his weight, his general health, and his activity level. Your golden will be growing for up to two years. And the amount of food during that time will have to be adjusted depending on his needs. Because most people feed kibble to their pup, this article will focus on that. Kibble is convenient and cost effective. Instead, they should be lanky and full of energy. They should love to eat their food with gusto. Instead, you should be able to feel his ribs when you pet him there. There should just be a thin coating of fat under his skin. And he should have a defined waistline. Of course you should check with your veterinarian to make such adjustments. And remember a young puppy should get only so much exercise a day. Their joints and bones are developing and can be damaged if the exercise is too extreme. Assuming you have an eight-week-old puppy, he should receive three to four meals a day. From eight weeks old until about five or six months old, three meals per day are advisable. Of course, feed at the same intervals every day and split the total amount per day in half to be given at each feeding. After about six months of age through adulthood, two feedings per day are the norm. Always check with your vet regarding how much and how often to feed. These are just guidelines. Feed him at the same distraction-free location so that he focuses on eating. As much as goldens love to eat, a young golden puppy is also very easily distracted. This can lead to possible health problems, including joint and bone problems. Goldens can easily become overweight. Free feeding can also lead to a picky eater. Some puppies figure out that if their buffets are always there, and they can just go graze at will. Most foods you purchase will have guidelines on their bag or box. When you first get your puppy, feed him the same food that the breeder or rescue fed him for a few weeks. Then, if you want to change his food, do so over at least 10 days. Add more of the new food and subtract more of the old food each day. After about five days, you should be giving him approximately 50 percent of the new food and 50 percent of the old food. Switching food over such a period of time will help prevent stomach upsets and diarrhea. Overfeeding will result not only in him becoming overweight but it will also make him grow too fast. Periodically—even weekly— test whether you can still feel his ribs without them protruding. You can then increase the amount he eats. You should also feed his last meal of the day at least 90 minutes before his bed time so that he can digest his food and potty before bed. A well-balanced, high-quality food should provide all the nutrients he requires. Golden puppies require a formula made for large-breed dogs. Puppy formulas for large-breed dogs regulate their growth. Eating too quickly can lead to digestive upsets and even bloat, which can be deadly. I rescued my golden retriever Riley when he was about six months old. To say that he ate as if it were his last meal would be an understatement. He had a voracious appetite. I bought one of the maze bowls to slow him down. The kibble is placed between each section of the bowl, and he had to forage for his food. It worked! He ate at a more normal pace. Of course, dogs should be given free access to fresh water. Other Feeding Options Although I concentrated in this article on feeding kibble to your new puppy, there are other options. There are some drawbacks to them because they may not be nutritionally complete, may be cost prohibitive, or may be too time-consuming to make. Wet Food Canned food alone or mixed with kibble is an option. But wet food alone is very expensive. He may become a picky eater. Feeding raw is controversial. Dehydrated raw foods reduce some of the risks. The ratio of calcium to phosphorous is crucial to puppy development. Homemade Diet Cooking for your best friend can be very appealing. And many people do. You know what ingredients and their quality are. But it has its drawbacks. Of course, the amount you feed is important for his growth rate and general health and well-being. But there is no one-size-fits-all in determining how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. Any amounts you see are just guidelines. Adjust them as necessary regarding your own special puppy. Do you have a golden retriever puppy? How did you determine what and how much to feed him? Please leave your comments in the 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. Debbie has been training dogs for over 24 years and has nationally ranked obedience and rally dogs, agility dogs, trick dogs, and therapy dogs. Post navigation. They are famously loving and playful family pets, always eager to jump in the pool or snuggle up with you on the lounge. They are patient and energetic dogs who are easy to train, making them excellent service animals as well as loyal companions. If you are bringing a Goldie into your family, you might also be aware of their reputation as food lovers. Your Goldie might want to eat anything and everything you put in their bowl — and maybe even anything left on an unattended plate. In this Golden Retriever feeding guide, Hypro Premium will take you through everything you need to know when it comes to food options for your pup. The best food for most young puppies is milk. If you are weaning a puppy, you can start to mix in a little dry kibble with their puppy milk to create a paste. You can feed this mix to your puppy up to four times a day, slowly reducing the amount of milk you mix in. Over time, your Goldie puppy will get more comfortable with solid foods, until you no longer need to include any milk in their diet. While chubby little puppies are cute, your Goldie should not build up too much excess fat once you start feeding them solids. Goldies go from a small 4kg puppy at 7 weeks old to an almost 30 kg adult dog in the space of only 10 months. At six months old your puppy will still be growing, but more slowly as they reach most of their body development milestones. This is why appropriate feeding in the first year of their life is vital to the overall health of your Goldie for years to come. Over time this can increase to up to 4 cups a day at 10 months old, though females should usually only need 3 cups a day. The amount you feed your puppy is often dependent on their size and sex. While they may have some growing left to do, it depends on your dog. Some Goldies will continue to experience growth spurts before their second birthday, while others will stay the same size. Large breeds can be at risk of growing too fast, which can make them more vulnerable to skeletal and weight problems when they get older. Golden retrievers are especially prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which can be avoided through diet control. You should feed your Goldie between 3 — 4 cups of food per day over two meals. Adult dogs and puppies have different nutritional needs. This is important to take into consideration as you are establishing a feeding schedule for a Golden Retriever puppy. Puppies require more calories to support their rapid growth than adult dogs, but they also have much smaller stomachs, which means they get fuller faster. Because of this, puppies can easily overeat, especially Golden Retrievers. You can help your puppy avoid overeating by allowing them a short amount of time to eat, and then removing their bowl. All puppies grow a lot during their first year, but large breed puppies are more likely to suffer from negative health consequences as a result. In order to provide your Golden Retriever puppy with the most appropriate food to support their rapid growth, consider choosing a large breed puppy food. Goldie puppies need lots of protein, fibre, and fatty acids to support the development of their bodies and provide them with energy. These foods also take into account the difference in nutrient digestion between small and large breeds. Too much of these nutrients can cause your large breed puppy to develop skeletal abnormalities. So how much do you feed a Golden Retriever? Your adult Goldie could need anywhere between and 1, calories per day. The amount of food you feed your dog will be determined by a few important factors. The first thing to consider is the sex of your dog. On average, your male Golden Retriever will need slightly more food than a female dog. Senior dogs will usually be less active and so will need less food. Goldies in particular can have a lot of variation in the amount of food they need on a daily basis. No matter how much you feed your dog, it is ideal that you feed your adult Golden Retriever two meals a day at evenly spaced time intervals. Feeding your dog twice, once in the morning and again in the evening, can be useful for establishing a routine and avoiding overfeeding. This routine can also include exercise, and is useful for encouraging healthy behaviour around food and toilet training. Special Considerations Your Golden Retriever could be predisposed to several health conditions that are important to consider when you make decisions about their diet. Firstly, Golden Retrievers are known for their beautiful coats, but their skin can often become infected. Goldies love swimming, but this can cause problems if water irritates their skin. They can also be susceptible to atopic dermatitis, which causes extreme itchiness, resulting in licking and biting behaviours in dogs that can cause even more damage. For dogs prone to skin and coat issues, a fish-based diet can help alleviate symptoms. Fish contains plenty of fatty acids, which support coat and skin health, and rarely triggers any allergic reaction in dogs. Goldies often benefit from healthy grains in their diet, especially as avoiding them can actually leave your dog more vulnerable to nutritional dilated cardiomyopathy, or nutritional DCM. This heart disease is common in Golden Retrievers, and can be triggered by consuming too much grain-free pet food that contains legumes like lentils and peas. You should consider feeding your Golden Retriever foods that are full of grains and proteins like chicken or fish. These are the benefits and drawbacks of the three most popular options — wet food, a raw food diet, and dry food. Wet food can be a great option for dogs that need plenty of protein and fat, like working dogs or dogs with certain health conditions. It also hydrates your dog while they eat, which can be useful for dogs suffering from any illness. For dogs with highly restrictive diets, raw food prepared by you can be a great way to avoid allergens. You can have complete control over a raw diet, which does require a lot more work on your part, but can have great results. For instance, a Golden Retriever with heart issues should eat a low salt diet, which can be easier to achieve if you are preparing their meals from scratch. However, low quality kibbles tend to be made up of a lot of low quality fillers, which can be hard for your pup to digest. Whatever option you choose for your Goldie, make sure it is suitable for large breeds and contains high quality ingredients. This will help prevent degenerative health disorders in the long run. Your Golden Retriever will probably love food, and will probably try to eat anything you put in front of them, which means you need to help them avoid the negative consequences of overeating. Golden retrievers, like other large and active breeds, need plenty of exercise. Not only is this vital to their physical health, but it also ensures they grow up well socialised and mentally stimulated. As your Goldie grows from a puppy to an adult dog, the amount of meals they need a day will reduce as their digestive systems become more developed. Your dog will need two meals a day, once in the evening and once in the morning, from the age of 6 months. There is also info on how to keep your puppy and your adult at his or her optimum weight. Scroll down to find growth charts to make sure your puppy is growing at the proper rate and is within the right weight range for his age. If you are looking for information on what to feed, go to How to Choose a Dog Food. Unlike with human children, a puppy that is overfed will grow too fast before they grow too fat. A good example is where a smaller puppy at 10 weeks was overfed and his growth was compared to a puppy that was correctly fed. The growth of your puppy needs to be controlled. General Guidelines for Puppies Below are some general guidelines on how much to feed puppies. Most dog food bags suggest feeding too much. Increase to about 3 cups a day by 5 months for boys and by 6 months for girls. Golden Retrievers at this age are supposed to look lanky and all Golden Retrievers act like they are starving when fed the correct amount. If left to eat as much as they want, they will all grow too fast. In the wild, dogs do not have unlimited access to eat as much as they want. They work for their food. Caloric Needs Greatly Decrease at About a Year When puppies reach about months, their caloric needs begin to decrease. Some males might need 4 cups if active and are fed a less expensive food. Make sure you take into consideration the number of extra calories being fed as treats. You should be able to feel their ribs, but not see them even when the dog is wet. If you can see the ribs, increase their food. Decrease the food if you cannot feel them. I always tell people that it is better to underfeed than to overfeed, especially when feeding puppies. Weight Range Charts Following are charts of how puppies should generally grow in weight. Keep in mind that very few puppies need to be at the top of these ranges and if you cannot feel ribs, your dog is overweight even if she is in this weight range. If your dog is still a puppy and she is over these weight ranges, you are feeding her too much. Female Golden Retriever Weight Chart Here is a chart of how girls should generally grow in weight: 2 Months — pounds.

Aug 18, Share Boxers were originally bred in Germany as guard dogs in the 18th century. This medium to large-sized dog was bred as a cross between the Bullenbeisser dog now extinct and the Bulldog. The Boxers we know and love today for their silliness and energy have emerged from a Molosser-type dog that was used in hunting. It is important to note that officially there is only one type of Boxer breed that has different bloodlines. Sometimes, these bloodlines are mixed, while other times they are absolutely pure. There are no variant types or official sub-categories in the official sense. However, there are plenty of morphological differences among Boxer breeds to consider. Below are the different types of Boxer dog breeds and their differences. The 3 Types of Boxer Dogs 1. The dog is preferred for its slightly larger frame as compared to the UK and American Boxer. The bones are dense and large, which helps give the musculature a slightly more pronounced definition. The width of the thigh in this breed is slightly wider as compared to others. A feature typical to German Boxers is the length between their skull and snout. The length is exactly in the ratio of in German Boxers with a pure bloodline. The snout, in comparison to other types, is smaller than the American Boxer and wider than the UK Boxer type. United Kingdom Boxer Dog A post shared by Boxergone boxergone Defining characteristic: Considered the most elegant among all Boxers, owing to its high knuckles atop small feet This breed is also called the English Boxer or British Boxer. The UK Boxer stands out for being more lithe, sleek, and athletic as compared to other Boxer breeds. It has a slender musculature and a stylized body that allows for further agility and precise movements. English Boxers have the highest knuckles of all other variants. They are also thought to be the smallest with thinner and shorter legs. However, this does not mean that they lack strength or speed. However, it was the first one to be given official recognition in by American Kennel Club. The breed is the easiest to recognize among all other variants, thanks to the lack of wrinkles in adult dogs. Their coat is also denser, brighter, and stronger than English and German Boxers. The American Boxer stands differently from the English Boxer. This is because of the shape of its ankles, paws, and knuckles. However, it is easy to confuse American Boxers with German Boxers since both of them have the same stance. Prevalence: Common Boxers are stocky, muscular and powerful. Males grow to about 25 inches and weigh from about 65 to 80 pounds 30 to 36 kilograms ; females grow from about 21 to 25 inches and weigh from about 50 to 65 pounds 22 to 30 kilograms. Boxers have regal, distinctly shaped square heads. Their jaw is undershot and the muzzle blunt. They have a broad, deep chest and a relatively short, strong back. Boxer's ears fold over naturally, but traditionally, their ears have been cropped to stand erect. Their tails generally are docked and carried high. Their feet are compact and the toes are arched. The boxer's coat is short and sheds moderately. Some boxers are a rich, fawn color and others are brindle. Their face or mask is usually black, but many have white face markings and white on the chest and paws. Personality: Boxers are intelligent, high-energy, playful dogs that like to stay busy. Their temperament reflects their breeding. They prefer to be in the company of their owners and are loyal pets that will fiercely guard their family and home against strangers. Few boxers bark excessively. If a boxer barks, chances are there is a good reason. Many boxers are vocal, however, and make a growling noise that's really just the dog's way of talking. Living With: The boxer has a high need for companionship and exercise. If these needs are not met, boxers can be destructive if left alone in the house. Boxers are ideal for people who want a canine companion with them most of the time or for larger busy families with homes that are often occupied by someone. They can do well on a country estate or in a city apartment as long as they have the opportunity to romp and expel energy. If you live in an urban area, regular walks are necessary. Boxers are intolerant of hot weather, and care must be taken to prevent them from getting overheated. They also need protection from the cold since they are short-coated. Their coats, however, are very easy to care for and will be shiny and bright as long as they have a good diet, are bathed occasionally, and are given regular rub-downs with a grooming mitt or brushings with a rubber curry. Some boxers drool excessively, and some snort and snore. Like other larger dogs, boxers are not particularly long-lived. Their life expectancy ranges from about seven to 10 years. History: Boxers are descendants of extinct bullenbaiser breeds crossed with mastiff, bulldog and possibly Great Dane and even a terrier. They were developed in Germany in the 19th century, initially as bull baiting dogs and later as butcher's helpers, controlling cattle in slaughterhouses. Some breed historians say boxers are named from the German word boxl, their slaughterhouse designation. Other fanciers contend the name boxer comes from the characteristic way that they use their forepaws to play, sparring much like a human boxer. After the breed rose to become among the most popular in America. Boxers are considered working dogs. They were one of the first breeds employed as a police dog, and they have been used as seeing-eye dogs. But they are also bred to be companion and guard dogs, perhaps best known for being loyal family pets that are especially fond of children. Related Pet Care Articles. Officially, there is only a single type of Boxer dog recognized by major kennel clubs. However, fanciers and breeders have set the distinctions between Boxer dogs bred in different countries. The differences between the types of Boxer dogs in each region are heavily dependent on preferences. Breeders from each location have been cultivating specific characteristics or traits that they want the breed to exhibit. International kennel organizations also contributed to their variation as they prioritize the characteristics of a certain region over the other. Among the three types of Boxers, this is the second variant that has been merited as a standard in by The Kennel Club KC , one of the oldest canine organizations in the world. This substantiates why the UK standard leans more to the characteristic of this Boxer type. One of the defining characteristics of UK Boxers is their small feet, high knuckles, and slender legs which give them a more elegant look. It is considered to be the smallest and slimmest among the three. Nonetheless, the masculine physique which is the core trait of Boxers is still evident. Its slender body also provides more room for agility and precision in moving. It is also expected for UK Boxers to be biddable, calm, fearless, and self-assured. Oddly enough, the standard for this type of Boxer was only established after the two other Boxer types were standardized. Among the three, the German Boxer remains to be the more robust and largest type in terms of muscle mass and bone structure. Their physique has a more defined masculine figure with longer and stronger legs. These traditional Boxer features are probably retained through time since most German Boxers are still bred for their natural talents in herding and hunting. Another key characteristic of German Boxers is that they have a shorter snout compared to American Boxers but wider than the UK Boxers. According to most Boxer breeders, German Boxers are calmer and easier to train compared to the other types of Boxers. The traits and characteristics of the American Boxer were officially acknowledged in by the American Kennel Club. The most defining trait of this Boxer type lies in its coat. An American Boxer has a smooth, tight, and shiny coat that has no wrinkles. With this unique trait, it would be easy to distinguish an American Boxer among other variants. Boxer fanciers claim that American Boxers have a more elegant and balanced look. The reason could be because most American Boxers are bred to be show dogs or champions of conformation events. When it comes to temperament and behavior, the American Boxers are said to be playful yet constrained, patient, and stoic towards family members — especially with children. Also, they are said to be the most energetic Boxer among all types. If you have been searching about Boxers, you might have also heard about black Boxers although there are none in reality. Let me explain to you in this section the different coat colors and markings that Boxer dogs have. Fawn Boxer Dog Fawn coat color can exhibit a range of hues, including shades of yellow, tan, red, and mahogany. It is one of the two standard coat colors recognized by kennel clubs and possibly the most iconic. Too much white on the coat is considered a fault. The common markings for fawn Boxers are white flash and a black mask. The black mask refers to a black muzzle that can also be seen on German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois. Brindle Boxer Dog Brindle is not a color but a pattern. This is characterized by the presence of streaks of irregular and darker color against the light color background of the coat. For Boxers, the background is usually a color ranging from fawn to deep red. The appearance of the brindle coat will vary depending on the thickness and thinness of the color strips. Some may look like almost solid fawns while some may have more defined patterns in their body. Depending on the shade of the brindle, a Boxer dog may be called a light brindle, golden brindle, fawn brindle, red brindle, or mahogany brindle. The concentration of brindle patterns in Boxers can also be classified into three: tiger brindle, reverse brindle, and seal brindle. The streaks of irregular darker hair patterns are spread across a light background. On the other hand, reverse brindle dogs have strips of irregular lighter color against a darker color background. They differ from a seal brindle Boxer who sports a heavy concentration of dark streaks on their coat. However, for the record, there is no such thing as black Boxer dogs in reality. Purebred Boxer dogs do not carry the black color gene so it is impossible for them to have a black base. Boxers can only either be fawn to mahogany , brindle, or white. The black Boxer dogs that are advertised are brindle in nature. Remember the seal brindle that I mentioned earlier? When the streaks of the darker color patterns are too tight that they seal or shut the light background off, the coat appears to be solid black. In other words, the black coloration is nothing but an illusion. Worst, due to the hoaxes about white Boxers, they were even culled back then. Contrary to popular belief, white Boxers are not albino. Albinism occurs when a dog lacks pigmentation on its body. However, that is not the case for white Boxers. Similar to seal, the white coat for Boxers is produced due to an unusual patterning in the body. In short, they just have large white patches. White Boxers are either fawn or brindle with a large area covered with white markings. Boxers with this coat color typically do not have other markings in their body including a black mask. Those with patches of other colors in their body patches on the eyes, black mask, ears, back are called Check Boxers and are considered to be particolored. Boxers that have more than a third of white color in their coat or are all white are disqualified on conformation shows. The good news is that the AKC now recognizes the white coat color but is still considered to be non-standard. White Boxers are allowed to have limited AKC registration but are prohibited from being used on breeding. Knowing the type of Boxer you have would be easy if you bought from a reputable breeder. However, if circumstances do not allow the aforementioned ways, you can also try observing the unique characteristics of each type of Boxer. As discussed earlier, English or UK Boxers have long, slender legs which give them an elegant look. One of their defining characteristics is their high knuckles and small feet. If your dog sports this appearance, it is probably a UK Boxer. If your dog is large compared to other Boxers you see, there is a high tendency that it is a German Boxer. This type of Boxer is the biggest among the three. It has a dense bone and a larger and more masculine frame compared to the UK and American Boxer. Spotting if your Boxer is an American type would be easy. The defining trait of an American Boxer is its slick, smooth, shiny, tight coat. In terms of temperament, it would be hard to distinguish the three types of Boxers as they exhibit similar behaviors: confidence, patient, calm, and watchful. However, the German Boxer is said to be the calmest Boxer among the three. The American Boxer on the other hand is the most energetic type. If your Boxer sports extraordinary demeanor and composure unlike other Boxers, there is a great possibility that it is a German Boxer. Subsequently, if it acts like a bomb of energy, it is probably an American Boxer. Although all of the types of Boxers can join dog shows, some are more favored by specific kennel clubs. Conformation shows usually set guidelines following the standards provided by these organizations. Thus, Boxers that perfectly adhere to the standards are more favored than the others. If you want to join Boxer shows, the first thing you need to do is to identify the type of Boxer you own as well as the kennel club that sponsors the event. The prices of the three different types of Boxers have no significant differences. Boxer dogs with champion blood are more expensive than ordinary purebred Boxers. When it comes to coat color, the most expensive Boxer puppy would be the one with a seal brindle. As discussed earlier, a Boxer with this coat creates an illusion of a solid black color. Due to their rarity, Boxer dogs with seal brindle color are highly valued and priced. Places to Find Different Types of Boxer Dogs for Sale and Adoption In buying a Boxer dog, you should only transact with reputable breeders and avoid buying from backyard breeders and puppy mills. A professional Boxer breeder only aims to enhance and further the characteristics of the breed. Here are the places where you can find reputable and professional Boxer breeders. This online marketplace is regulated by the AKC itself so you have the assurance that all of the Boxer puppies sold are bred ethically and professionally. Most of the advertised Boxers in this marketplace came from the bloodlines of American Boxers. They have a acre facility dedicated to breeding German and UK Boxer dogs. This breeder is interested in breeding German Boxers that is why all of the dogs in their facility have German pedigrees. Unfortunately, a great number of Boxer dogs also end up in rescue centers. If you are eyeing to adopt one, here are the places where you can apply: American Boxer Club Rescue Directory — The parent organization of Boxer clubs in America has a complete list of the numerous Boxer rescue organizations across the country. There are dedicated shelters for each state and region of the US. Adopt-a-Pet — This is an online pet database that is dedicated to rehoming Boxer dogs. There are hundreds of Boxers posted on their sites every day that are available for adoption. It is affiliated with over 12, pet shelters across the US and Canada. All types of Boxer dogs English, German, and American are pretty common. In fact, kennel clubs do not consider these types as exactly legit. The terms American, UK, and German Boxer dogs are mostly used by breeders residing in a certain location. The boat only tips in terms of coat color. Contrary to popular belief that white is the rarest color for Boxers, seal brindle Boxers are the real gems. The tight patterns of a dark streak of hairs give an illusion of solid black coat color. Due to their rarity, they are also considered to be more expensive compared to other colors. What Is a European Boxer Dog? A European Boxer dog is another term used to refer to German Boxers. They are more masculine and have larger body frames. To be fair, all Boxer dogs are equally good. However, there are unique traits evident to each type of Boxer dog. The physique of a German Boxer dog is more robust than the other types, giving it an impression of a more reliable guardian. On the other hand, the unique features of American Boxer shiny tight coat and UK Boxer high knuckles and slender feet give them a more elegant look. If you are after a sport or a working dog, German Boxers would be preferable. On the other hand, if you would like to join conformation events, the American or UK Boxer will be your go-to. In addition, you should also consider your region as judges favor a certain type of Boxer depending on their origin. For the behavior and temperament, all three are lively yet calm, easily trained, and self-composed. However, breeders and owners testify that American Boxers are more energetic compared to the other types of Boxers. Your preference and lifestyle will be your criteria in choosing which Boxer matches you. Aside from their slight differences in size and appearance, they are all Boxer dogs that exhibit elegance and vigor. Their temperament and behavior will heavily depend on the environment they are raised in and the training they received. In terms of Boxer types according to coat colors, you should carefully weigh your options and refer to what the standard says. If you aspire to enter show events, you should not choose a Boxer puppy that is white or has white patches that cover more than a third of its body as such traits are considered faults. You should take note that a Boxer is not a dog for beginners. It is a breed that requires proper training and attention. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Boxer Overview Boxers, large, muscular, square-headed dogs, appear imposing until their mischievous and joyful eyes reveal their true nature. Boxers reach full maturity at three years, boasting intelligence, alertness, and fearlessness, while remaining friendly. Their loyalty to the family is remarkable, though they can be headstrong when faced with harsh training. With minimal grooming needs, Boxers make excellent family companions, as long as they receive ample physical exercise and mental stimulation. Their origin traces back to Germany, and their short, shiny coats are usually fawn or brindle with white markings. Docked tails and cropped ears are common, but many owners now prefer leaving them natural. Boxers are renowned for their love and loyalty, often trying to be lapdogs. Their strength and courage make them suitable for military, police, and search-and-rescue work. Proper care includes indoor living due to their sensitivity to extreme temperatures. Boxer Highlights Here are some of the highlights of the Boxer breed: Affectionate: Boxers are very affectionate dogs and love to be around their people. They are known for their wagging tails and slobbery kisses. Playful: Boxers are also very playful dogs and love to have fun. They are always up for a game of fetch or a good belly rub. Intelligent: Boxers are very intelligent dogs and can be easily trained. They are often used as working dogs, such as therapy dogs and search and rescue dogs. Trainable: Boxers are also very trainable dogs and can be taught a variety of tricks. They are eager to please their owners and love to learn new things. Loyal: Boxers are very loyal dogs and will always protect their family. They are known for their bravery and willingness to stand up to danger. The Bullenbeisser was used as a hunting dog for centuries to hunt bear, wild boar, and deer, tasked with catching and holding the prey until hunters arrived. Over time, Bullenbeissers lost their jobs on estates and began to be used by farmers and butchers to guard and drive cattle. The Boxer we know today was developed in the late 19th century when a Munich man named Georg Alt bred a brindle-colored female Bullenbeisser named Flora with a local dog of unknown origin. Schecken was then bred to an English Bulldog named Tom to produce a dog named Flocki, who became the first Boxer to be entered in the German Stud Book after winning at a Munich show that had a special event for Boxers. One of her pups was a white female named Meta von der Passage, considered to be the mother of the Boxer breed, even though photographs of her show that she bore little resemblance to the modern Boxer. Our great line of sires all trace directly back to this female. She was a substantially built, low to the ground, brindle and white parti-color, lacking in underjaw and exceedingly lippy. As a producing bitch few in any breed can match her record. She consistently whelped puppies of marvelous type and rare quality. Those of her offspring sired by Flock St. Salvator and Wotan dominate all present-day. The breed became known in other parts of Europe in the late s. Around , the first Boxers were imported into the U. Lehman of New York. When Word War I broke out, Boxers were enlisted into the military, serving as messenger dogs, carrying packs and acting as attack and guard dogs. Boxers started becoming popular in the U. Through them, the breed was introduced to more people and soon became a favorite companion animal, show dog, and guard dog. In the early days, there was a lot of controversy within the club about the Boxer standard. In , the club finally approved a new standard. The latest revisions of the standard were in .Today, the Boxer ranks 7th among the breeds and varieties registered by the AKC. Boxer Size The height at the shoulder for males usually ranges from .Females typically stand 21 to .Strangers are met with wariness, but they respond politely to friendly people. They display aggression only in defense of their family and home. Temperament is influenced by factors like heredity, training , and socialization. Boxer puppies with good temperaments are curious, playful, and open to approaching and being held by people. Socialization, early exposure to diverse experiences, people, and places, is crucial to ensure they grow up as well-rounded, friendly dogs. Enrolling them in puppy kindergarten classes and regular interactions with visitors, neighbors, and various environments help develop their social skills. Boxer Health Boxers are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they have certain health conditions to be aware of. Here are some conditions to watch out for, along with precautions: Cancer : Boxers are prone to mast cell tumors, lymphoma, and brain tumors. White Boxers with excessive white markings can get sunburned and may develop skin cancer. Apply sunscreen to their ears, nose, and coat when they go outdoors. This condition can lead to fainting and sudden death. A veterinary cardiologist can diagnose it after detecting a heart murmur. Affected dogs should not be bred. Boxer cardiomyopathy BCM : An inherited condition causing an irregular heartbeat due to an electrical conduction disorder. It can result in weakness, collapse, or sudden death. Detection is challenging, leading to unexpected fatalities. Dogs showing signs of this condition should not be bred. While some dogs show signs of pain and lameness, others may not exhibit discomfort. X-ray screening helps detect hip dysplasia, and affected dogs should not be bred. Hypothyroidism : Caused by a deficiency of thyroid hormone, leading to infertility, obesity, mental dullness, and lack of energy. It can be managed with daily thyroid replacement pills. Corneal Dystrophy : Non-inflammatory eye diseases inherited in Boxers, affecting one or more corneal layers, causing opaque areas in the eyes. A weakened immune system can lead to demodectic mange, resulting in localized or generalized skin issues. Gastric dilatation-volvulus GDV , also called Bloat or Torsion : A life-threatening condition more common in deep-chested dogs like Boxers. Feeding habits and exercise patterns can contribute to GDV. Immediate medical attention is crucial. Allergies : Boxers are prone to both environmental and food-related allergies. Itchy, scaly skin should be examined by a vet. Responsible breeding is essential to reduce the risk of deafness. Boxer Care Boxers are indoor dogs due to their short noses and coats, making them unsuitable for outdoor living. However, they enjoy playing in a fenced yard. Engage them in play or walk them twice daily for at least half an hour to keep their muscles toned and their energy satisfied. Activities like fetch, long walks, or dog sports like agility and flyball are great options. Adequate exercise ensures good behavior—a tired Boxer is a well-behaved Boxer. Training is crucial for Boxers, as their size and strength can inadvertently harm people. Their temperament, being happy and excitable, requires early and consistent training using firm, fair methods with positive reinforcement through praise, play, and food rewards. Be consistent to avoid pushing boundaries. Settle them down before training class with a walk or play session for better focus. Housetraining requires patience; some Boxers are trained by four months, while others take longer. Regular potty breaks and praising them outdoors are essential. Crate training is recommended for their successful training. Boxer Feeding For an ideal Boxer diet , choose high-quality food suited for medium-sized breeds with high energy. Optimize their chances for a long, healthy life by providing proper nutrition. To prevent weight gain, adhere to a regular feeding schedule with two meals per day. Limit treats and avoid leaving food out all day. Consult your vet for personalized recommendations based on factors like weight, energy levels, and overall health. Boxer Coat Color And Grooming Boxers boast a sleek, short coat with tight skin, accentuating their athletic bodies. They come in fawn or brindle colors, occasionally with white markings. Fawn ranges from light tan to mahogany, while brindle displays striking black stripes on a fawn background. White markings should not cover more than one-third of the coat, and excessive white is discouraged due to potential health issues like skin cancer and deafness. They lack the gene for a solid black coat, so black Boxers are not seen. Bathing should be done as needed. Maintaining dental hygiene and nail care are essential. Regularly brushing their teeth prevents periodontal disease, and trimming nails every few weeks keeps their feet in good condition. Starting grooming routines early in puppyhood helps them become accustomed to the process, ensuring positive veterinary exams and handling as adults. Regular grooming also provides an opportunity to check for any potential health issues, such as sores, rashes, or signs of infection, promoting early detection and care. Boxer Children And Other Pets Boxers are fond of kids and make excellent playmates for active older children. However, their rambunctious nature may be too much for toddlers, possibly causing accidental knocks during play. Never leave a dog unsupervised with a child. With proper socialization, Boxers can also get along well with other dogs and cats, particularly if raised together. Boxer Rescue Groups Boxers are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Boxers in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. Many can be found with a quick internet search. Further information: Bullenbeisser Friedrich Robert and his boxer, The Boxer is a hunting mastiff developed in Germany in the late 19th century from the now extinct Bullenbeisser , a dog of English Mastiff descent, and Bulldogs brought in from Great Britain. Its task was to seize the prey and hold it until the hunters arrived. In later years, faster dogs were favored and a smaller Bullenbeisser was bred in Brabant , in northern Belgium. The Brabanter Bullenbeisser is generally accepted as being a direct ancestor of today's Boxer. The club went on to publish the first Boxer breed standard in , a detailed document that has not been changed much since. During World War I , the Boxer was co-opted for military work, acting as a valuable messenger dog, pack carrier, attack dog , and guard dog. Taken home by returning soldiers, the dog was introduced to a wider audience and soon became a favorite as a companion, a show dog, and a guard dog. Boxer early genealogy chart Flocki, the first Boxer German citizen George Alt, a Munich resident, mated a brindle-colored female dog imported from France named Flora with a local dog of unknown ancestry, known simply as "Boxer", resulting in a fawn-and-white male, named Lechner's Box after its owner. This dog was mated with his own dam, Flora, and one of his offspring was a female called Alt's Schecken. George Alt mated Schecken with a Bulldog named Dr. Flocki was the first Boxer to enter the German Stud Book after winning the aforementioned show for St. Bernards in Munich , which was the first event to have a class specific for Boxers. Blanka von Angertor, Flocki's sister, was even more influential when mated with Piccolo von Angertor Lechner's Box grandson to produce the predominantly white particolored female dog Meta von der Passage, which, even bearing little resemblance with the modern Boxer standard early photographs depict her as too long, weak-backed, and down-faced , is considered the mother of the breed. Our great line of sires all trace directly back to this female. She was a substantially built, low to the ground, brindle and white particolor, lacking in underjaw and exceedingly lippy. As a producing female, few in any breed can match her record. She consistently whelped puppies of marvelous type and rare quality. Those of her offspring sired by Flock St. Salvator and Wotan dominate all present-day pedigrees. Combined with Wotan and Mirzl children, they made the Boxer. Breed name[ edit ] The name "Boxer" is supposedly derived from the breed's tendency to play by standing on its hind legs and " boxing " with its front paws. Brace's Pet Owner's Guide to the Boxer, this theory is the least plausible explanation. At that time, the spelling "baxer" equalled "boxer". Both the verb boxen [English "to box, to punch, to jab"] and the noun Boxer were common German words as early as the late 18th century. The term Boxl, also written Buxn or Buchsen in the Bavarian dialect, means "short leather trousers" or "underwear". The very similar-sounding term Boxerl, also from the Bavarian dialect, is an endearing term for Boxer. These dogs were the result from mixes of Bullenbeisser and other similar breeds. Bier beer probably refers to the Biergarten, the typical Munich beer garden, an open-air restaurant where people used to take their dogs along. The nickname "Deutscher Boxer" was derived from Bierboxer and Boxer could also be a corruption of the former or a contraction of the latter. This seems improbable. Any such action would likely result in a badly bitten if not broken leg. On the other hand, a German breeder of 40 years' experience states positively that the Boxer does not use his feet, except to try to extinguish a small flame such as a burning match. But a Boxer does box with his head. He will hit not bite a cat with his muzzle hard enough to knock it out and he will box a ball with his nose. Or perhaps, since the German dictionary translates Boxer as "prize-fighter", the name was bestowed in appreciation of the fighting qualities of the breed rather than its technique. Boxer is also the name of a dog owned by John Peerybingle, the main character in the best-selling book The Cricket on the Hearth by Charles Dickens , which is evidence that "Boxer" was commonly used as a dog name by the early 19th century, before the establishment of the breed by the end of that same century. A brindle Boxer with two white socks Brindle, fawn, and white Boxer puppies See also: Dog health A healthy Boxer puppy Leading health issues to which Boxers are prone include cancers , heart conditions such as aortic stenosis and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy the so-called " Boxer cardiomyopathy " , [35] hypothyroidism , hip dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy and epilepsy; other conditions that may be seen are gastric dilatation volvulus also known as bloat , intestinal problems, and allergies although these may be more related to diet than breed. An emerging health concern among boxers is Boxer Juvenile Kidney Disease JKD , where the kidneys do not develop normally during gestation and leads to chronic renal failure. There is strong evidence to suggest JKD is an inherited condition in boxers with research being undertaken by the University of Ohio to determine the gene mutation, as well as other work separately by the UK Boxer Breeder Council. Mortality due to infection increases significantly with increases in inbreeding. The breed is particularly predisposed to mast cell tumours, a cancer of the immune system. Because of their brachycephalic heads, they do not do well with high heat or humidity, and common sense should prevail when exercising a Boxer in these conditions. See also: Dog food Boxers need plenty of exercise, which means their diet should be high in quality calories. The main source of these calories should be lean animal protein, which include lean chicken, turkey, lamb, and fish. They sometimes appear at dog agility or dog obedience trials and flyball events. These strong and intelligent animals have also been used as service dogs, guide dogs for the blind, therapy dogs, police dogs in K9 units, and occasionally herding cattle or sheep. The versatility of Boxers was recognized early on by the military, which has used them as valuable messenger dogs, pack carriers, and attack and guard dogs in times of war. Notable Boxers[ edit ] Punch and Judy were awarded the Dickin Medal for conspicuous gallantry or devotion to duty while serving in a military conflict.

It is often thought that the Black Mouth Cur German Shepherd mix only happens from unintentional mating. This means that it will be pretty challenging to find a breeder specializing in creating this particular mix. They offer anything from purebred pups to mixed-breed dogs, and you can get your very own Black Mouth Cur German Shepherd mix with just a few clicks. Greenfield Puppies — A family-run organization founded in , this Better Business Bureau BBB -accredited website lists only the most reputable breeders. They strongly encourage their breeders to adhere to state guidelines and provide health guarantees. Infinity Pups — This organization mostly works as a broker and connects dogs to their perfect homes. Families are also given a chance to meet breeders upon pickup, and they also offer one-year health guarantees for every puppy sold. Infinity Pups has a wide selection of puppies and dogs alike, ranging from purebreds to more obscure mixes such as the Black Mouth Cur German Shepherd mix. We also have a comprehensive list of German Shepherd breeders you can check out. Keep in mind, however, that they only allow adoptees living in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. Westside German Shepherd Rescue — Based in Los Angeles, this shelter primarily focuses on rehoming rescue German Shepherd purebreds and mixes to loving, qualified families. They have approximately 80 dogs waiting eagerly to find their forever homes. Instead, this is a small rescue primarily run by two volunteers named Deb and Jan. Other than the rescues mentioned above, you can also check out our top picks for German Shepherd rescues. This contains the common guidelines and requirements set by rescue shelters, as well as a few tips that you can follow to make sure your application gets accepted. Here are the pros of owning a Black Mouth Cur German Shepherd mix: Great guard dogs: This particular breed loves to guard and protect its family. Thanks to their herding lineage, they can also help round up smaller pets. Long lifespan and good health: If you want a dog that can last generations, the Black Mouth Cur German Shepherd mix is one of the best picks to consider. They have long life expectancies and are generally healthier than purebreds, thanks to their hybrid vigor. Highly intelligent: This working dog is highly intelligent and is always eager to please. Agile and active: If you have an active lifestyle, this breed may be perfect for you. Their high energies paired with unwavering agility and speed make them suitable to take on morning or afternoon runs, as well as long walks around the neighborhood. Here are the cons of owning a Black Mouth Cur German Shepherd mix: Barking and other destructive behaviors: If not trained or socialized properly, this breed tends to bark, get aggressive, or even chew and bite things. Heavy shedding: Depending on which coat they inherit, the Black Mouth Cur German Shepherd mix may end up with a medium to long coat that will shed periodically throughout the year. Alert Confident These dogs need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They excel at canine sports and jobs such as search and rescue, hunting, herding, and more. With proper socialization, they get along well with children and other pets. Their protective nature makes them excellent watchdogs. These energetic dogs require minutes of exercise daily. They enjoy activities like hiking, running, swimming, agility, and playing fetch. Along with physical exercise, these dogs need mental stimulation through training, interactive toys, and jobs. Without adequate activity, they may develop destructive behaviors or anxiety. They respond very well to positive reinforcement training and are eager to please their owners. Early socialization and obedience training is essential for these dogs. It helps prevent problematic behaviors and ensures they behave appropriately around other dogs and people. Their medium-length double coat should be brushed times per week to remove dead hair and distribute skin oils. During shedding seasons in the spring and fall, they will require more frequent brushing. Occasional baths can help remove excess dirt and dander when needed. Other grooming needs include: Nail trimming every weeks Ear cleaning times per month Teeth brushing times per week Their floppy ears are prone to developing infections if not cleaned regularly. Check and wipe their ears weekly. Some concerns to be aware of include: Hip and elbow dysplasia — Malformation of these joints that can lead to arthritis. Bloat — Life-threatening condition where the stomach twists. Avoid exercising before and after meals. Allergies — Environmental or food allergies resulting in itchy skin or ears. Heart disease Cataracts — Clouding of the lens that causes vision loss. Discuss any specific health concerns with your veterinarian. Avoid pet stores or online ads selling these puppies, as they often come from irresponsible breeders. Instead, look for breeders focused on this mix who health test their breeding dogs. Ask to meet parent dogs to evaluate temperament. Reputable breeders will welcome questions and provide vet records. Check local shelters, rescues, and breed-specific rescues for adoptable dogs. Before bringing one of these mixed breed dogs home, make sure you can meet their needs. They require a securely fenced yard and plenty of daily activity. First-time owners may struggle with meeting their demanding exercise and training requirements. Homes with children should have kids who understand how to respectfully interact with dogs. Their protective nature makes proper socialization essential. If you can provide structure, training, and an active lifestyle, the intelligent and devoted German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur will make a wonderful canine companion! Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions. They form close bonds and do well with children and other pets they are raised with. These dogs are medium to large-sized, ranging from lbs and inches tall at adulthood. Females tend to be on the smaller end of the spectrum. They also blow their coats twice per year and will shed more heavily during the spring and fall. Regular brushing will help manage loose hair. They are not inherently aggressive but need plenty of early socialization to prevent territorial behaviors or aggression towards strangers and other dogs. With proper training, they can get along well with most people and animals. Lifespan averages years. This can include walking, running, hiking, swimming, play sessions, and mentally stimulating activities. Yes, thanks to intelligence from both parent breeds, these dogs are highly trainable and eager to please their owners. They respond very well to positive reinforcement training methods. With their athleticism, endurance, courage, and keen senses, the GSD BMC can make an excellent hunting companion and gun dog for activities like tracking, retrieving, flushing, and more. No, the AKC does not recognize any mixed breed dogs. Both parent breeds are recognized by the AKC individually, however. Final Thought For those seeking an energetic, intelligent, and devoted canine companion, the German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mix has a lot to offer. When properly trained and exercised, they make wonderful family dogs and excel at various jobs and activities. Their hybrid vigor gives them a long and healthy lifespan to share with their owners. While finding a German Shepherd BMC puppy may take some effort, going through a responsible breeder is well worth it. This unique mixed breed combines some of the best qualities of both the German Shepherd and Black Mouth Cur. Their loyalty and versatility is unmatched! Related posts:. A post shared by Xena and Ziggy xenaandziggy The German Shepherd X Black Mouth Cur is a crossbreed and generally comes about as a result of accidental mating between the two breeds, rather than intentional crossing. This means that the cross can be difficult to find, but it might be worth checking with breeders of German Shepherd and Black Mouth Cur dogs. Because they are mixed breed dogs and are considered large breed dogs that require a lot of exercise, you may be able to find German Shepherd X Black Mouth Curs in rescues and shelters. In most cases, you should be able to get one for a few hundred dollars, although this will depend on the breeder and the lineage of the dog. The puppies will be lively and need plenty of exercise. Also, enroll in obedience and puppy training classes when the dogs are young. Both breeds are easy to train and tend to be eager to please their owners but they do need to be taught good manners and basic commands at a young age. This is especially true of the Black Mouth Cur parent breed, which can be quite boisterous. However, it is safe to assume that the cross will adopt some of the traits and characteristics of the parent breeds. Are These Dogs Good for Families? It is gentle and understanding with children, although it can be protective, which makes socialization and training important. The Black Mouth Cur is also fond of children, but it can be more boisterous, which means that there is a danger of accidental injury so you must supervise interactions between the dog and young children. The German Shepherd X Black Mouth Cur will appreciate family members that are willing to play with and exercise them, which includes older children. Both parent breeds can be wary around other dogs, which is another reason for early socialization. While socializing your dog, make sure it meets a good variety of dogs and other animals as well as new people. If you already have pets and are bringing a German Shepherd X Black Mouth Cur into the family, ensure that you take things slowly and allow both dogs time to get to know one another before leaving them alone. If you bring one of these dogs home as a puppy, it will be a lot easier to introduce them to cats and other dogs than if you bring home an older dog that has no experience with other animals. It will require a gradual and patient introduction to other pets and will benefit from early socialization. If you are feeding dry food, expect to give about three cups of good-quality kibble per day. If you are feeding canned food, weigh your dog and feed according to the instructions on the food packaging. If you use treats as a training aid or you give treats regularly, you will have to reduce the amount of food you give accordingly. You should provide 2 hours of exercise a day. This can include walking on a leash, but you should try and offer more intense exercise, too. The breed can do well in agility and also performs well in other canine sports competitions. Alternatively, let them have the run of a fenced-off yard and throw a ball for them to chase. The breed will benefit from being given tasks and jobs to perform. This will keep their mind active and alert while helping train them. Socialization is also very important for this breed, especially to ensure that they do not view strangers or other dogs and animals as threats to the family. The Black Mouth Cur is a moderate shedding dog with a short coat and is also considered easy to groom. You will benefit from giving your dog a daily brush , especially during and around shedding season. Check the ears occasionally and clean around the outside if necessary. Possible health conditions for the cross include: Minor Conditions. Photo: Instagram The Black Mouth Cur German Shepherd mix is a fairly new mixed-breed dog that comes from a line of two dogs that are both energetic and initially bred for hunting. Most Black Mouth Cur German Shepherd mixes will have the signature curved back of the German Shepherd with a wedge-shaped head and a longer tail, along with triangular ears that flap down and to the side. They may have longer legs than most German Shepherds, with a black snout and muzzle and a black nose, characteristic of the Black Mouth Cur. Buy Now Disclaimer — This website uses affiliate links and gets a small commission at no additional cost to you. Are you looking for a way to treat your furry friend? Sign up for our newsletter for a chance to win a free month of Barkbox! Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to get emails from myk9life. We'll respect your privacy and you can unsubscribe any time. Thought to have been used by early settlers to the United States, the Black Mouth Cur is thought to have been developed by crossing a Mastiff-type dog with various types of hounds and terriers, to develop the ultimate hunting companion with the stamina, agility and speed to help hunters fetch or take down small game. Black Mouth Curs were designed to be energetic and active hunting companions. This makes them perfect dogs for those who lead an active lifestyle with plenty of hiking, walking or indeed hunting! Their energy requirements make them less than ideal for the elderly, or those who live in small spaces or apartments. Beyond that basic history, very little is known about the Black Mouth Cur. The history of crossbreeding the Black Mouth Cur is even more elusive than the history of the breed itself. Though crossbreeding dogs became popular in the United States in the s, before soaring in the s and early s, so it is entirely likely that some of the first instances of crossbreeding the Black Mouth Cur happened during this time period. Some of the most popular Black Mouth Cur mixes include:. Breed Info Mixed breeds are becoming increasingly more popular all over the world. Since the German Shepherd is one of the most popular breeds in the U. If you are wondering whether the German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mix would be a great addition to your family, this article will give you all you need to know about this adorable pup. They are classified as herding dogs and were bred originally to herd sheep and protect sheep. Today they are one of the most versatile working dog breeds as they are extremely intelligent, courageous and have a strong drive to work. They are used for a variety of tasks such as service dogs, military work, police work as well as personal protection. Outside of their working roles, they make good family dogs as well because they quickly bond to humans, and good with children, and are very loving, affectionate, and playful. They are believed to the originated in the south of the U. The exact combinations used to create the bred remain unknown today. What is known is that Black Mouth Curs were bred to be an all-around farm dog. They were originally used mostly for hunting, protection, herding and pretty anything else a farm dog would need to do. Outside of their farm roles, they make great dogs for single people who have an active lifestyle. However, they can also be good family dogs but need a little supervision and training around younger children as they can get a bit wild at times. Like the GSD, they form strong bonds with their family and have a protective nature which makes them a good guard dog as well. Although German Shepherds are much more popular, Black Mouth Curs have a lot of great traits that make for a very well-rounded dog. Breeders that intentionally cross Black Mouth Curs with GSDs are looking to create the ultimate hunting, herding, personal protection dog, who not only works hard but plays hard as well. No matter how they come about, learning more about the general characteristics of this mix will help you understand whether they would the perfect fit into your life. However, there are also some differences that make this a unique crossbred as well. If you are considering welcoming one of these mixes in your life, here the general characteristics you should expect. However, males tend to trend larger than females in terms of height and weight. One could expect a Black Mouth Cur GSD to be around 19 — 20 inches in height on average and between 45 — 85 pounds on average. Coat German Shepherds have a medium to long coat with a double coat. They shed all year, but they also blow their coat twice annually in the spring and the fall. German Shepherds have a variety of coat color patterns including all black, black and tan, blonde , liver , blue, and sable. Black Mouth Curs have a short coat of coarse or fine fur. They also shed year-round, and also shed more heavily twice a year. Since their coat is shorter even though they shed there will be less fur around your home. Black Mouth Curs come in a variety of color patterns as well. Most typically their coat will be yellow, black, brown, fawn or brindle. But you can expect a mix of this type to most likely have a medium-length coat. They only need to be brushed one time a week during normal times and twice a week during shedding season. A bath every few months is sufficient unless your pup gets unusually dirty. Teeth cleaning and nail clipping should be done in the same frequency as any other dog. Assuming your mix has floppy ears opposed to the erect GSD ears , then you should clean their ears more regularly as floppy ears are generally more likely to develop ear infections. Given the fact that both these breeds were bred to protect sheep and other farm animals from predators they are capable of going up against large wild animals. Black Mouth Curs have a bite force of around psi, and German Shepherds have a bite force of about psi. Therefore, it is expected for this mix to have a bite force of between and psi. Speed The German Shepherd is known for their speed and agility. They run at a speed of up to 30 miles per hour. Black Mouth Curs are also very athletic and have been documented to run at a top speed of up to 20 miles per hour. Not only do these breeds need plenty of physical exercise they also need a sufficient amount of mental exercise since they are very smart and need to be intellectually challenged. The BMC German Shepherd will need a minimum of two minute-long walks or high-energy play sessions each day. Trainability Both German Shepherds and Black Mouth Curs are extremely trainable, meaning a mix between these breeds will be easy to train as well. Additionally, both breeds become very bonded and loyal to their owners which also helps with their trainability because they are eager to please their family. German Shepherds are ranked as the third most intelligent dog breed. Temperament The German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mix will be a courageous, loyal, protective dog, that is eager to please their family. Although this mix is a hard worker, they will also be a sweet affectionate ball of fluff around the people they trust. If given proper training and socialization this mix will be friendly to people outside the family as well other animals. This mix will also be good with children, they just need to be taught how to be gentler and not to jump on and potentially knock over little ones. Health Although mixed breeds typically have less issues than their purebred counterparts, here are some of the health issues to look out for with this mixed breed: Black Mouth Curs are known to be affected by hip dysplasia, ear infections, cataracts and epilepsy. German Shepherds are known to be affected by bloat and digestive issues, hip and elbow dysplasia, diabetes, hemophilia and cataracts. Therefore, one could expect a mix between these breeds to potentially encounter any of the above conditions. A healthy diet, routine exercise, and regular vet visits are also key to having a healthy pup. Lifespan German Shepherds have a, average lifespan of 12 and 14 years. Black Mouth Curs have an average lifespan of 12 and 16 years. Accordingly, the German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mix can be expected to have an average lifespan of around 14 years of age. The Canine Partners program runs events for various canine sports such as agility, rally, obedience, as well as various performance tests such as those for hunting or scent work. Usually, these mixes are the result of unintentional mating, so it may be very hard to find a breeder who specializes creating this pup. They are loyal, courageous, intelligent, protective over their family members, but also a sweet loving pup. They need a family who has an active lifestyle to be able to meet their physical activity requirements. This mix is a breeze to train and will give your family loads of fun times for many years in the future. Both of these dogs can be friendly but personalities differ, so you never know. The German Shepherd is known for being intelligent, curious, and alert. All dogs need proper socialization and that will be a big factor in how they interact with others. What does this mixed breed look and act like? Those are the questions we will try and answer below. Continue reading below to see pictures, videos, and learn more about the beautiful German Shepherd Dog Mountain Cur Mix. While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue, we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their German Shepherd Dog Mountain Cur Mix puppy. If you are interested in helping animal rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer donates to help feed shelter animals. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. If you have a few minutes, please sign our petition to stop puppy mills. Von Stephanitz had in his mind what a good working dog should be and a few generations of breeding fulfilled what Hektor envisioned. Horand von Grafrath is known to be the first German Shepherd Dog. Horand von Grafrath was bred to other similar styled dogs that were believed to have the same traits as what Von Stephanitz was looking for. His most successful offspring was Hektor von Schwaben. Von Stephanitz is widely credited for being the founder of this incredible breed. Von Stephanitz had intended for his breed to work as herding dogs, however, as Germany became more and more industrialized he saw the need to make it working dog. He convinced the German government to use the breed. The breed initially became popular in World War 1. Many American and allied servicemen grew attached to the breed during the war and brought them back to the states after the war was over. The Allied troops fell in love with the breed but not with the fact that it had German roots. It became common for police departments and those looking for true working dogs to import their dogs from Germany because the American dogs had such bad health problems. They then moved westward to Arkansas and Oklahoma. Like most dog breeds they were used to help hunt as well as be guard dogs. Over time this became a very rare breed of dog. Some breeders resurrected them and kept them going, but they are still not that common. They are a short-coated good natured dog.

However, these numbers are not set in stone, as some pups do grow faster, and some a bit slower. From there on, their growth will slow down significantly. Around the time they are 18 to 24 months old, Boxers finish growing. Naturally, larger Boxers will reach their adult size later than Boxers on the lower end of the scale. However, all Boxers will continue to gain girth and fill up their chest cavities well over their first birthdays. If their paws look disproportionately big compared to the rest of their body, they still have some growing to do! Boxer is a medium to large sized breed with a boxy chest and muscular body. Full-grown female Boxers usually weigh around 50 to 65 pounds, and stand around .Male full-grown Boxers usually weigh more than females with an average of 65 to 80 pound body weight. They usually stand around 23 to 25 inches tall at the shoulder. Full-grown Boxers can weigh anywhere between 50 to 80 pounds, and stand around .We hope you found this Boxer size guide helpful in understanding the sizes and growth patterns of Boxers. After all, knowing the estimated adult size of your Boxer puppy will provide you a better understanding of what type of living conditions you can provide them. After all, what every dog owner wants is for their furry little companion to thrive and live the best life possible! What kind of diet do we give our pooches for a healthy weight? What you should never overfeed a dog? You should never ever overfeed your dogs too much carbs as they get stored as fat in the body if they are not used. Unfortunately, carbohydrates are much cheaper an ingredient as compared to the other nutrients like protein. Hence, they are often used by major large dog food manufacturers to make up the weight of dog food whilst keeping the prices of the dog food low. This is the main reason why pets all over the United States are getting obese. And, ironically, this became the driving forces behind the rise of these healthy pet food startups , as their founders seek to provide their own proper and much healthier alternatives. The high fiber content will make your dogs feel content faster and thus eat less. And since fiber does not get stored in the body like carbs do, it can be promising measure to keep your pooch's weight under control. Mathematically, eating less will reduce weight gain. However, it can easily lead to malnourishment if your dog is not given the proper nutrition. We are talking about nutrients beyond the common proteins and carbohydrates. They include omega fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, amino acids and many more! The key here is not to eat less. The key here is to maintain a balanced diet. And what constitutes a balanced diet? That requires a deep understanding and a wide study in the field of pet nutrition to truly determine it; so much that it warrants a university degree. To get the most balanced, holistic and healthiest dog foods , it is often better to leave it to the experts. Have you been scheduling your dog's meal time wrongly? And does it really matter? Scheduling your dog's meal time will tune their stomach to become hungry only at their meal times. Combining this with the right amount of dog food given to them, it will keep your dogs from becoming hungry out of meal hours. In turn, this will maintain their metabolism rate and utilize all the food they consume fully and appropriately. As a bonus, regular meal time will also discourage them from scavenging around the house like little vacuum cleaners as they grow accustomed to the amount of food they are given and to be used for the intervals between meal times. These food brands are not your typical corporate pet food manufacturers. These are pet food startups fueled by the passion from their pet enthusiasts founders who only want the best for all dogs under the sky. Each of them have came up with their own unique formula that will surely satisfy your dogs' taste buds without compromising their health. Click here or the button below to learn more about these bespoke food brands. Underweight and undernourishment is as real an issue as obesity among dogs. Underweight dogs appear thin and frail. And before you know it, they will start to lose all the hair on their coat and look like anything but a dog. These cases created a market of specialized dog food that help your dog to gain weight healthily. Here are 7 of the best dog foods for weight gain that can help your underweight dog get back its glory. Read more by clicking the button below. As a medium to large-sized dog breed, Boxers need more time to fill out and reach their full size than smaller dog breeds. As a general rule, expect your Boxer to grow until they are 18 to 24 months old. Keep in mind that this range is an estimate, so there are always exceptions. Image Source: Canva How big should a 6-month-old Boxer be? A 6-month-old male Boxer should weigh around 41 to 48 pounds, while a 6-month-old female Boxer will weigh about 39 to 44 pounds. According to Care. For a male Boxer puppy, this would be around 17 to 19 inches tall. Pro Tip: Check out this downloadable new puppy checklist covering topics like vaccination schedules, setting up the home for a new puppy, teething, veterinary visits, and more! How much bigger will my Boxer get? There are several ways to estimate how much bigger your Boxer will grow. If your Boxer is less than two years old, they are likely still growing. Some Boxers stop growing closer to 18 months, but many Boxers will continue to fill out in weight and body size until they are two years old. A puppy will rarely be larger than either parent, so this can give you a clearer idea of their maximum size. Do their paws look oversized compared to their legs and the rest of their body? This is a strong sign that your Boxer is still growing and filling out! What is the size of a full-grown Boxer? According to the American Kennel Club Official Boxer Standards , a full-grown male Boxer will stand around 23 to 25 inches tall, while a female Boxer will stand about .A fully grown male Boxer will weigh around 60 to 70 pounds, with their female counterpart will weigh about 55 to 65 pounds. As with many things, prevention is always better than treatment. Taking your Boxer to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do for their health, along with consistent love and care at home. One of the best things you can do at home is brush your dog's teeth regularly to help prevent painful periodontal disease and avoid pricey dental treatments in the future. Periodontal disease can cause bad breath and oral pain for your pup and may require your Boxer to have a dental cleaning or tooth extractions under anesthesia at some point in their lives if not attended to at home. Keeping your Boxer at a healthy weight is crucial for their longevity, overall health, and happiness. If your Boxer is overweight, talk to your veterinarian to develop a weight loss strategy so that you can get them back on track. Consult with your veterinarian about the ideal food and exercise for your Boxer. Like all dogs, Boxers have certain conditions that they are prone to. Boxers are a purebred dog breed prone to heart problems, like cardiomyopathy, heart valve narrowing, and congenital heart defects. Brachycephalic syndrome increases their risk of respiratory distress, allergies, heatstroke, and sinus problems. Regular veterinarian appointments are crucial in finding and treating illness early to give your Boxer the healthiest and longest life possible. Unfortunately, veterinary bills can be costly with many treatments for emergencies and illnesses, such as heart problems, being thousands of dollars to treat. When surveyed, .The financial safety net provided by pet insurance is why pet insurance is worth it for many pet parents. Keep in mind that even healthy behaviors, like exercise, can be overdone. Consult with your veterinarian about how much exercise is prudent. Medium to large-sized dogs that are still growing may suffer from joint damage if they are overexercised. Make a plan with your veterinarian today to provide your Boxer with the ideal amount of exercise to keep them lean, healthy, and happy. Boxer puppies grow into strong and sturdy adults that make fun-loving, often silly companions, and fierce protectors. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. This post may contain affiliate links. Read more here. Courage and loyalty are attributes the Boxer is usually described with. With a good work ethic, playful demeanor, and a goofy face, this dog breed ranks among the top 10 in the USA for a while now. Their nobility and elegance came to focus after the originally working breed Boxer became unemployed during the early 19th century. The breed name derives from the way they defend themselves with their paws while playing. It really appears as the dog spars with the front paws. There is no doubt one might be tempted to get bring home one of these loving fellas. The growth in dogs has much to say about their health and potential — but how? While growing up dogs that suffer from some diseases might stagnate more than others. Boxers are a medium to large dog breed and are pretty safe from the usual bone and muscle disorders in larger dogs. However, hip dysplasia remains one of the most common issues. Reputable breeders will let you meet the parents and give you contacts from owners of puppies born in previous litters. Most Boxer puppies will correspond just fine to the ranges mentioned for their age. It is super important to not rush the growing process. Dogs that are overweight can experience problems later on in life that might have been avoided by maintaining an appropriate body condition. Moreover, the veterinarian can have the pup checked for possible health conditions causing the slow growth. Photo by otsphoto on Shutterstock Even with late bloomers, there is no reason to worry. Some dogs experience growing episodes sooner than others. The same rules apply to puppies that grow too fast. Damage due to wrong feeding can be avoided by using high-quality premium food and sticking to the recommendations according to weight and age on the labels. Never miss out on consulting your vet on the topic first — they will be glad to guide you through it! Boxer Growth Stages Until they reach adulthood, Boxers go through 3 growth stages. The general difference between the growth stages is how fast the puppy grows during the period and how they appear in posture and body condition. The first stage is from birth until they are 2 weeks of age. After the second week, the growth rate slows down. Most breeders wean the puppies off around the 4th-5th week. At 18 months of age, you can probably introduce your companion as a fully developed, curious, and independent adult Boxer. Boxer puppies have somewhere between 2. At the end of the first stage, they can reach around 4. At 1 month of age, their stuffed muscle figure comes at about 5. By the time they are 16 weeks old, males weigh lbs .Male Boxers are expected to have approximately lbs .In the next six months, the growth slows down to about lbs 0. Male Boxers should weigh around lbs kg by the time they reach 6 months of age. Female boxer puppies are expected to have lbs kg when they are half a year old. Since the Boxer qualifies as a medium to large breed, it takes longer for them to reach their full-sized version compared to other smaller breeds. There are exceptions when Boxers complete the growth at 20, even 24 months. Female Boxers that are done growing up weigh approximately lbs kg and stand .Their male counterparts have between 60 and 70 lbs kg and are 23 to 25 inches cm tall. In the meantime provide quality food, regular exercise, and maintain regular veterinary check-ups to ensure their well-being. As with all other dog breeds, some adult Boxers will be smaller than the standard dimensions of the breed. On the other hand, there is a handful of those that are larger than the standard too. Genetics is the most probable cause for this. Rarely do Boxers end up being smaller than the rest due to low production of the growth hormone. Luckily growth hormone problems in Boxers are very rare and other breeds such as the Miniature Pinscher, Spitz, or Karelian Bear Dog are more prone to the condition. Growth defects in dogs can appear due to Dwarfism Achondroplasia. Minor deformities can be surgically corrected, but again with a dubious prognosis. In Conclusion Understanding the growth chart will help you understand what role nutrition, diet, and exercise plays and adjust accordingly. Getting rid of excess weight or ruling out health issues is something you and your vet can work on together. 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. Also, as long as you take your dog to vet check-ups regularly, and if the dog has received all the necessary vaccines for his age, you can be sure that your dog is healthy. However, an alarm could be triggered if you notice that your dog has problems with obesity or if he is underweight. In that case, it is necessary to find the reason for the inappropriate weight and work to solve this problem as soon as possible. A fully grown male Boxer weighs between 65 to 80 pounds. The adult weight of a female Boxer goes from 50 to 65 pounds on average. However, various factors significantly affect the average weight and height of a Boxer, so there might be some deviations from the average weight and height of these dogs. We will explain the factors affecting Boxer Growth in detail below. How big is your pet friend going to be? Birth-Two Weeks When they are just born, all that Boxer puppies do is eat and sleep. In this stage, puppies do not have teeth and are deaf and blind. However, this stage is not passive for Boxer dogs. Boxer puppies usually weigh around 3 pounds when they are born. At the end of their second week of life, their average weight is between 4 and 5. Therefore, this growth stage presents a rapid growth stage for Boxers. Two Weeks Weeks Being a large dog breed, Boxer dogs need a lot of food so they can grow accordingly. If you are used to having a small dog, be ready to give a lot more food to your new pet! When these dogs are around 4 weeks old, they start to eat solid food. During this period, they gain a lot of weight, so it is necessary to be careful not to exaggerate with the dog food. By the time they are 4 weeks old, Boxer puppies gain teeth and also develop a sense of hearing and open their eyes. When they are 5 weeks old, Boxer dogs start to show the urge to socialize and need their playtime. At the stage between 6 and 8 weeks, your puppy should start with his first vaccinations. When they are 8 weeks old, Boxer puppies are ready to leave their mothers and go to their new homes. In the next stage, when Boxer puppies are from 9 to 12 weeks old, dog owners will enjoy them the most, since this is the period when these dogs are ready to learn some basic tricks and commands. At the end of this period, both male and female Boxer puppies should be around 12 inches tall, according to the breed standard. Three Months-Six Months This is the period when your new puppy starts to explore the world. In this stage, it is extremely important to introduce your Boxer to new places and new people. This is the best way to properly socialize and train your dog. In terms of weight for this stage, a healthy weight for a Boxer at 5 months is between 33 and 40 pounds. As to height, a 6-months old Boxer should be around 18 inches tall at 6 months. Six Months Months Compared to some smaller breeds, you sometimes might think that your Boxer is not acting according to his age. Larger dogs or medium-sized dogs such as Boxers reach maturity in later stages than some smaller dogs. You might have to wait a while until you have an adult Boxer in your home! Most dogs of the Boxer breed reach their adult size when they are around 1 year old. However, some of these dogs continue to grow, so, according to the Boxer growth chart, these dogs will reach their full height and full body weight at the age of 18 to 24 months. According to some opinions, it takes up to three years for Boxer dogs to reach their full maturity! So, be prepared to enjoy a long period of childhood behavior from your dog friend. Larger dogs usually have a shorter life expectancy than smaller dogs, and we are not quite sure yet what is the main reason for this. What Factors Affect Boxer Growth? If you are well acquainted with the Boxer growth chart, you will be able to provide your dog with the lifestyle he needs to have to become a happy and healthy dog. A couple of factors might significantly affect the growth of your Boxer. Genetics Genetics is very important for your dog in general, as it largely determines the appearance and behavior of a dog. If this information is not available to you, you can always have a DNA test done that can help you find out how big your dog might get. Going for a walk, running around the yard or any other activity is always welcome to help your Boxer spend the tremendous energy he possesses. Although exercise is essential for this dog, it is important to make sure that exercise is not overdone. If a Boxer gets too much exercise before his bones and joints are properly developed, this could negatively affect his further growth. Nutrition Since Boxers are bigger dogs, they need a lot of quality food to develop properly. However, every Boxer owner must be extremely careful here. The food your Boxer gets should be full of vitamins and minerals, but you should not overdo it with the amount of food. Two meals a day is quite enough for a Boxer, so try not to leave food out for your dog outside of these two feedings. This way, the dog will learn his routine and will not look for extra food. Boxers are dogs that easily become obese, so proper feeding habits need to be instilled at an early age. Bottom Line We know that all dog owners sometimes wonder if their pet is at the right weight and height according to their age. To make it easier for you to answer these questions, we have described the Boxer growth chart in this article. By following this chart, you can conclude whether your dog is in the average weight and height range that corresponds to his age. If you notice minor deviations, do not stress! Various factors affect the growth process of your Boxer, and, remember, some Boxers continue growing even after their second year of life. All you as a responsible dog owner need to do is provide your dog with enough love, exercise, quality food, and regular visits to the vet. This way, your Boxer, without any doubt, will grow into a healthy and big dog! We can see when your Boxer puppy will become their adult size and reach its full height. Your new puppy will grow rapidly for the first two weeks. Your pup should weigh between 4. When your doggo is between six and eight weeks old, they should also prepare for their first vaccinations. Males should be around 17 to 19 inches .At one year old, females should weigh between 55 and 65 pounds .Many factors are involved. For your doggo to maintain a healthy lifestyle, monitoring their growth and weight is a good idea. How can you tell how big a Boxer will get? Within the first six months of age, your Boxer will grow rapidly. You can tell how big your pooch may get by looking at their paws and head. For example, your furry friend may look disproportionate for a while. However, some parts of their body will catch up to the rest within a few months or even a few weeks. Is your Boxer at a healthy weight? You can typically tell whether or not your Boxer is at a healthy weight by their ribs. But, on the other hand, if you can feel and see their ribs, they may be underweight. Always check with your vet to be on the safe side. What are some Boxer dog body shape changes? Boxer puppies grow in height faster than their weight gain. When this dog breed matures and becomes an adult, they will have a wide chest. But, overall, Boxer is strong and lean. In addition, different factors are involved when it comes to impacting how your dog grows. In addition, reputable breeders should have this information. The nutrition you feed your pooch can help or hinder their growth. For example, if you feed them dog food with unhealthy fillers and lots of fat, they may become obese, thus hurting their growth and overall health. Will neutering or spaying your Boxer affect their growth? Spaying or neutering your Boxer has more pros than cons. For example, some health conditions may include hip dyslexia, bloat, acne, arthritis, and cancer. The best way to ensure your pooch remains healthy is to work together with your veterinarian. Take your dog to regular vet appointments at least once per year for an annual check-up. In addition, talk to your vet about the type of dog food and exercise your Boxer should be getting. If your doggo is overweight or underweight, the vet will be able to help. Finally, properly groom your doggo. Physical activity Boxers need plenty of room to run around and stretch their legs. However, they love to play and enjoy a round of fetch with you in a fenced-in yard. Just be sure to wait until their bones and joints are fully developed before taking them for jogs or hikes. Otherwise, they could have joint issues later in life. Dangers of stunted or accelerated growth If your Boxer is a little bigger or small than the others of its breed, that may not necessarily be a bad thing. However, some issues can occur. For example, your pooch may be smaller due to a growth hormone deficiency. This controls the growth rate in dogs, their bone and teeth development and maintains a healthy coat. Dwarfism could also be the reason. When do Boxers stop growing? You can expect your Boxer to be fully grown and stop growing between 18 and 24 months of age. This system works on a scale of one to nine. One means your pup is underweight and unhealthy. Nine means they are extremely overweight. The ideal place on the scale where you want your large dog to be is a five. What should you do if your Boxer is growing too fast? Growth disorders can occur in larger dogs, such as Boxers. If you notice your dog growing too fast, talk to your vet first. How to help your Boxer lose weight if he is overweight? This includes their diet and exercise. Take a look at what dog food you feed your pooch. In addition, do you feed your doggo people food and table scraps? Do Boxer mixes vary in size? If you want to learn more, you can read about Boxer mixes here. How Big Is Your Boxer? These happy doggos are a delight to have around. Boxers are great companions dogs for anyone young or old. While this pooch can have certain health conditions, they do have an average growth track. Overall, with proper exercise and dieting, your Boxer will develop into a happy, healthy pup. Did your Boxer puppy grow on track? Let us know in the comments below. Further reading: Learn more about the Growth of other Dog Breeds. Male Dog Track your Boxer's weight and compare it to other dogs! Discover the ideal weight for your Boxer and track his progress! Register your dog or puppy now for free and become a part of our growing community of over 7. Boxer: Frequently asked questions about the dog breed How much does a Boxer puppy weigh? Typically, a Boxer puppy weighs around 12,5 - 22,9 lbs at 2 months old and continues to gain an additional 18,24 lbs over the next 2 months. By approximately 18 weeks, when the puppy reaches the adolescent stage, a Boxer puppy weighs about 29,2 - 38,5 lbs. What is the typical size of a Boxer? The size of an Boxer can vary depending on gender and genetics. Generally, male Boxers reach a shoulder height of approximately 60 cm, while females have an average shoulder height of around .When is the dog breed Boxer fully grown? The dog breed Boxer usually reaches full physical maturity at about 15 to 15 months of age. However, this may vary from individual to individual, as each dog has its own growth rate. What is the average weight of a fully grown Boxer? The weight of a fully grown Boxer dog can vary depending on factors such as gender and genetics. On average, male dogs of this breed typically weigh between .Female dogs, on the other hand, usually have a weight range of .What is the average lifespan of a Boxer dog? Boxers generally have a life expectancy of approximately 10 to 12 years. With proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary attention, they can lead happy and healthy lives. Our goal is to promote and support healthy growth of your dog. They suckle, sleep, and grow at a rapid pace. They have no teeth a mercy for the momma dog and their eyes are closed. They draw comfort from their littermates and mom, cuddling up close. And, at five weeks, the fun really begins as your puppies begin to play with each other and are keen to socialize with you too. Keep those interactions positive! Save the date. There are some really nasty doggie diseases out there, but most of them are preventable with vaccination and parasite control. Adopting a Boxer puppy or getting ready to home out your litter? Expect chewing and mouthiness. The permanent teeth are beginning to appear. Gently teach your Boxer puppy to take out that itch on chewy toys and not people or older household pets. Make sure your puppy gets plenty of exposure to other people and animals in positive settings. Getting to be a bit of a handful? A six-month-old female Boxer is approaching her first heat , but her body is not strong enough to cope well with pregnancy. He or she should know some basic obedience commands and have some control over that overwhelming puppy energy. Still struggling to raise a good canine citizen? Training your dog takes time, repetition, and positivity. Besides this, remember that large dogs often mature slower mentally than smaller breeds. Your dog is still growing up and is really still a pup until they are 18 to 24 months old. Adult A well-raised young adult boxer is incredibly loyal, affectionate, and — you guessed it — still very playful. Good nutrition, exercise, and play continue to be important throughout his adult life. How Big Do Boxers Get? Female Boxers are a little more daintily built than their male brothers. Males usually grow to be around 25 inches tall at the shoulder, weighing between 60 and 70 pounds. Females will be 21 to 25 inches tall, and weigh between 55 and 65 pounds. Of course, you might like to make a prediction for your puppy. However, be careful of letting your Boxer puppy get overweight. Then, of course, you can look at their paws. If they look too big for the body, your puppy still has some growing to do. Multiply that by two. The answer should be a good estimate of its adult weight. Looking for something more precise and scientific? The truth is that your Boxer will be no smaller if you spay or neuter. However, spaying or neutering too young can cause serious health issues. An interesting fact, however: spaying or neutering can affect the closure of growth plates, so a spayed or neutered adult Boxer may be taller. There actually has been a breed-specific study covering various health risks associated with spaying or neutering a Boxer. A look at the figures recorded during the study, however, reveals a different picture. Female boxers have no greater risk of cancer after spaying. Veterinarians recommend neutering male Boxers at six to twelve months old. For females, it can be best to hold out until two years old, but here you should weigh your risks. Dealing with a female on heat is intensive, and if she gets pregnant too young, that can cause health issues. How do they stack up size-wise? A boxer can get fractionally taller than an American Bulldog although both fall within the 22 to 25 inch height range. However, American Bulldogs are much heavier! An American Bulldog weighs between 75 and pounds in adulthood. Boxers only weigh between 55 and 70 pounds. So, what does? Female dogs of almost any breed are usually smaller and daintier than males. But of course, one does get unusually big female dogs too, and if a big female is bred with a big male, the genetics are likely to result in bigger-than-usual offspring. Nutrition Nutrition is always important in reaching genetic potential. Undernourished creatures of any kind never get as big as their genes would otherwise allow. Over-nourishing is equally bad, so the trick is to get the feeding balance exactly right. Boxers are very active dogs, so they might need a little more food than more restful breeds do. Too much exercise and high-impact activity can increase the chances of joint problems. Health, on the other hand, really does affect both height and weight in the long term. Keep up those vaccinations and remember that a listless Boxer puppy is probably a sick puppy. The right amount to feed your Boxer puppy depends on their age, metabolic rate, and the specific dog food you choose. Check the packaging for the calorie value of the food. For most dog foods, this comes to one to three cups per day. Feed puppies at least three times a day and divide the servings to match your calculations. When your Boxer puppy stops growing, you can reduce the calories to 40 per pound of body weight. Not sure of your math? Chat with your veterinarian to get expert recommendations. Do Boxers Experience Growing Pains? Giant breeds are the most prone to growing pains, but Boxers can get them too. Your dog may have a bone or joint issue, and the best person to decide on treatment will be your veterinarian. If your dog is just a little underweight or overweight, you can easily adjust its feeding, and if your Boxer is old enough and seems overweight, up the ante on his exercise. Does it have a good appetite? Does your pup seem to be unusually lazy? Thyroid issues are quite common in Boxers. Knowing them can help you to spot problems quickly and ensure that your pet gets treatment. Unfortunately, Boxers are somewhat prone to various cancers. As with many other big, active breeds, heart issues can also develop. These include dilated cardiomyopathy DCM which is a degeneration of part of the heart muscle. Sometimes, it can be treated effectively, but some Boxers will always have a weak heart as a result of the condition and its aftereffects. Bloat, or GDV happens very suddenly. The stomach fills with gas and the pressure can cause the stomach to turn right around. Discuss this with your vet. Hypothyroidism in Boxers is pretty common. Treatment is a must, and your Boxer will have to use meds throughout its life. However, if the condition is treated, your dog will be in excellent health. Finally, we have CCL disease or cranial cruciate ligament disease and hip dysplasia. The CCL is a ligament and it can break down for a number of reasons including obesity. A weakened CCL can tear, causing the knee to become disjointed. This can be repaired with surgery, but once your dog has CCL disease, it can occur again. I fell in love with the breed around ten years ago after seeing some of my friends adopt a Bully. I love the combination of the muscular physique and calm, loyal companionship that the American Bully breed has to offer. My enthusiasm for the breed has led me to train as a dog behavioralist and trainer. Over the last ten years, I have supported many households in raising their American Bully and maximizing the potential of the breed. Recent Posts.