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Whether you're designing a website, creating a brochure, or working on a marketing campaign, the right images can enhance your content and captivate your audience. If you're in search of white poodle images, you've come to the right place! In this article, we'll explore a wide range of stunning stock images featuring adorable white poodles. The Beauty of White Poodle Images White poodles possess an undeniable charm that makes them a popular choice for visual content. Known for their elegance, grace, and intelligence, these dogs are captivating subjects that can instantly capture and hold the attention of your audience. Whether you need images for a pet-related blog, a grooming salon, or even a children's book, white poodle images can convey feelings of sophistication, playfulness, and loyalty. Choose the Right Image Type for Your Needs When selecting white poodle images, it's important to consider the type of project you're working on. For web design and online content, JPG files are commonly used due to their smaller file size and compatibility across various platforms. If you require scalability and flexibility in editing, AI and EPS files are the perfect choice, as they can be resized without losing image quality. These formats are ideal for print materials like brochures, magazines, and banners, ensuring crisp and clear visuals. Utilizing White Poodle Images White poodle images can be used in a multitude of projects to achieve different goals and create various effects. Here are a few practical suggestions on how to make the most of these stunning visuals: 1. Branding and Marketing: Incorporate white poodle images into your branding materials, such as logos and business cards, to represent sophistication, elegance, and trustworthiness. Pet-Business Promotions: If you own or manage a pet-related business, white poodle images can effectively showcase your products or services. From grooming salons to pet boutiques, these visuals can attract potential customers and evoke a sense of professionalism. Educational Materials: If you're creating educational content about dogs or poodles specifically, utilizing white poodle images can engage your readers and enhance their learning experience. These visuals can be used in books, articles, or educational presentations. Social Media: Our white poodle images are perfect for capturing attention on social media platforms. Whether you're sharing fun facts, promoting adoption, or simply celebrating the beauty of these dogs, incorporating captivating images can increase user engagement and shareability. Conclusion White poodle images offer a compelling visual representation that can enhance a variety of projects. With their elegance and charm, these visuals communicate sophistication, playfulness, and loyalty. Whether you're in need of visuals for a web design, marketing campaign, or educational material, our collection of white poodle images in JPG, AI, and EPS formats caters to your specific needs. Choose the right image type, consider the purpose of your project, and make a lasting impression with these stunning visuals. Let the beauty and charm of white poodles elevate your content and captivate your audience! The breed is active and energetic Trainability Easy to train due to its intelligence Origin Though the Poodle is often associated with France, it is believed to have originated from Germany before finding its way to France where it became a distinct breed and family companion. It is also believed that the Poodle has many ancestors, all of whom are Waterdogs from Spain, Russia, Portuguese, French, Germany, etc. One suggests that the ancestor was the Barbet from North Africa. No one knows which theory is the most accurate so the ancestry remains unclear. What we do know is that the Poodle is an old breed, going back to Ancient Egyptian civilization. Paintings and artifacts confirm this. It is also generally accepted that the smaller Poodles were developed in the 15th century. The Miniature and Toy Poodles retained the traits and behaviors of the Standard version but with smaller sizes. Each type played different roles in places like Paris. While the Standard was used to hunt and the Miniature to sniff, the Toy Poodle was an adorable companion to many rich folks. Though it was rare after World War 2 ended, it soon rose to become one of the most popular dog breeds in the US. The only distinctive feature of the white Toy Poodle is the white color. Poodles share the same intelligence, temperament, and even coat type. The only differences are sizes and colors. Thus, what you get from other Poodles is what you should expect from the white Toy Poodle. They can read your mood These dog breeds are known to be sensitive and can detect any change of emotions. This ability adds to their good rep as a family companion. During sad days, they will snuggle up and make you feel better. This also means any harsh treatments or anger from you will affect them more than many other dog breeds. You should be careful how you interact with this breed. The hairstyle was once more than a stylish trend The trademark haircut of the White Poodle Toy and other Poodles is often considered too classy and silly by many people. To the naysayers, it makes the breed look more like show dogs and less like competent pets. Back when Poodles had roles to play, the haircut helped them cross water bodies while protecting them from the inevitable chill of many rivers and streams. It is smarter than it looks A big misconception people have about this dog breed is that it is all beauty, no brains. This is further enforced by silly jokes that make poodles be vain pets with no substance. The Poodle is one of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world, and all versions have this intelligence. Its intelligence makes it easy to train as it learns with ease. The hair simply grows like ours. It needs as much exercise as a bigger poodle Due to the size and role of companion dogs, the white Toy Poodle is often seen as a breed that may not require too much exercise. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Without exercise, this little breed shows the same antsy behavior as bigger breeds. It may lead to destructive acts. What separates it from others is the striking white color. The Toy Poodle, like other Poodles, has an elegant stride and a fanciful style. The coat is dense, sometimes harsh with hair that grows in curls. The small size and white color of this Poodle give it a cute, teddy bear look. Related: Color Genetics Poodles come in many colors, both standard and otherwise. Often, this color changes as they grow older. White is the most common color, although the hair type is often classified as black because White Poodles have black noses and dark eyes. This distinguishes them from Albino Poodles. Sadly, white Poodles are prone to deafness. Deafness is often associated with dog breeds with white coloration. According to generally accepted standards, this dog breed is termed Toy when it has a height that is less than 10 inches. Any Poodle taller than that officially belongs to the Miniature category. Their weight range falls between 6 to 9 pounds. Thus, you can expect that all Poodles will act the same way. Environment and training have a big role to play, however, so it is your responsibility to make sure your pet is well mannered. That said, there is a lot to consider if you want your pooch to be in a good mental and emotional state. The white Toy Poodle is loving and affectionate, always up for a snuggle with its owner. Its sensitivity makes it attune to your mood and it acts accordingly. This breed also likes being around people and is not the type of dog breed you should leave alone. A Toy Poodle wants to be around its family and partake in its activities. It is playful as well and known for its sense of humor. These dogs can keep you entertained for a long time with their clownish attitude. Expect brighter days with this adorable pup. However, you do need to be careful if you have small children. They tend to play roughly with dogs and may mistakenly injure a dog of small size. To be safe, this dog breed is better for a family with grown children. The caution aside, white Toy Poodles make good family dogs. White Toy Poodles usually have no issues with other dogs. They can live in peace with other canines and enjoy having other poodles around. You should also be careful having them around big dogs. Because of their low prey drive , they can also coexist with cats and other pets without being a threat. Are They Easy to Train? With their intelligence and love for people, this dog breed is trainable. Even new pet parents can attempt to teach these cute pooches good manners and better behaviors. They love to please their owners and are usually cooperative. Do not neglect training this breed or spoiling it because of its size and cuteness. Without training, it can become unbearable and act as the boss of the house. Train it with the same firmness as you would a big dog, but do not be harsh on your Toy Poodle. Take it on obedience training, house training, crate training, and socialization. Related: Complete Guide To Training Your Puppy Motivations and positive reinforcements will keep your pet more interested, but do not go overboard with treats. They are some of the healthiest dogs out there and rarely fall ill unless you got one that was poorly bred. You must get your pup from a breeder who is trustworthy and can provide all needed information on the health of the pup and its parents. Their healthy reputation notwithstanding, Toy Poodles are vulnerable to some illnesses that are peculiar to this breed. Symptoms include baldness and unexpected weight gain. Deafness: White Toy Poodles are especially vulnerable to loss of hearing. While this can be a struggle for the pet when it happens, deaf dogs can live normal lives and adapt to the setback. Epilepsy: Epilepsy is characterized by seizures, some more severe than others. It may be inherited or an offshoot of another illness. It has no cure but the seizures can be managed. The former is a result of an overload of cortisol. The latter is caused by a deficiency. Eye diseases: This dog breed is susceptible to different eye diseases. Others are cataracts and glaucoma. At this point, you may be eager to click on a website and order one white, cute Toy Poodle pup. However, you should be sure this dog breed can fit your lifestyle and expectations before you get it. It may be adorable and fluffy, but it can be a handful if it is incompatible with the way you live. Fortunately, the White Poodle Toy can be handled by any pet parent regardless of expertise. That said, you should be firm and committed to training this breed. Also, you should be cool with a pet that loves attention. Overly busy people who go out in the morning and come back late should go for a more independent dog breed. But if you work from home or retire, this breed can cure loneliness for real. They are suitable for both apartments and large spaces but need a lot of exercise to avoid getting bored and restless. The Hertzko slicker brush is an example of the right tool for your Toy Poodle. For the coat, we recommend a white and light coat enhancer Shampoo. It removes stains and brightens the color. The popularity of this color of Toy Poodle and Poodles in general has a huge effect on the price. Be prepared to make a huge expense to get one. You should make sure you have enough to take on the initial cost. Adoption is cheaper and a valid option. Where to buy a White Toy Poodle for Sale? With enough diligent research, you can purchase one with your laptop and a good Internet connection. Here are some sites you can access to purchase a white Toy Poodle:.
German Australian Shepherd Video Temperament and Behavior Known for their intelligence, alertness, and loyalty, the Australian German Shepherds are extremely devoted to their family members, spending time playing. They get along well with the kids provided they are socialized when young. As in the case of most herding dogs , they are reserved and unresponsive with strangers. Being protective by nature, they do a great job watching and guarding their house and family. Because of their kind and loving behavior towards their family members, they are considered good family pets. However, they need confident and firm leadership and are thus not suitable for the timid or first-time owners. Care Exercise As a lively dog, it needs a minimum one-hour of daily activities including running, playing, and agility exercises. Keep your pet occupied and mentally stimulated by providing it with puzzle toys. Long walks are also recommended for avoiding boredom and inactivity. Grooming Routine maintenance will ensure a shinier and healthier coat. Utilize a slicker brush to stroke its hair in the direction of its growth. This will keep dead hairs from coming on your clothes as well as furnishings. Do not bathe your pet too often as it might strip its skin of all its natural oils. Trim its nails occasionally to prevent them from growing too long. Keep its teeth and gums healthy by brushing them with a gentle toothbrush and vet-recommended toothpaste. Health Problems These dogs might be prone to common health conditions including food and contact allergies, hip dysplasia, epilepsy, eye disorders, as well as some other diseases affecting its parent breeds. While adopting a puppy, it is advisable that you check the health clearances of its parents from the breeder. Training Let your pet know that you are its leader and it should follow your commands. Enforce strict and positive training methods, but do not be too harsh. You may reward it by praising its good behavior, offering foods, or playing with toys. This will encourage your pet to listen to your commands and accept training. Feeding Keep an eye on the quality as well as the quantity of food you provide your pet. A low-calorie diet with small amounts of fat and protein is necessary to keep it in good shape. Do not offer more than cups of dog food a day. Intentional breeding likely started in the recent past, probably in the United States. For over years, these dogs have roamed the American West, rounding up livestock for farmers and ranchers. While the breed was refined in the Outback, this purebred got its actual start working the hills of Europe. Needless to say, the modern Aussie comes from a long line of herding champions! German Shepherd? More like canine bodyguard! Brave and powerful German Shepherd dogIn the 19th century, German officer Captain Max von Stephanitz sought to create a German herding dog like no other. Through careful crossbreeding, the modern German Shepherd Dog emerged. Shortened to GSD, these canines quickly proved capable of far more than herding. One even became a famous movie star named Rin Tin Tin. DRA does. Most have well-proportioned, athletic bodies. Set up high on their well-proportioned head are triangular ears with rounded tips. It could still range anywhere from upright and alert to floppy and folded. Their almond-shaped eyes have that observant and intelligent expression. Eye color varies from dog to dog. Most often, we see them with brown, blue, or hazel eyes. Your pooch might even inherit heterochromia from their Aussie side, a condition that gives them two different eye colors! Muzzles can be medium or long that slightly tapers and have a rounded tip. Your Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix is likely to have a fluffy, plumed tail that can be long or short, depending on which parent breed they take after. They sport a solid color, while others have a combination of black, tan, red, cream, golden, white, blue merle, or red merle. Some might even be tricolor or have tinges of silvery gray or brindle, with speckled or spotted markings. How big will a German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix get? Full-grown Aussie German Shepherds usually have a height of 19 to 26 inches tall 48 to 66 cm and weigh 45 to 80 pounds 20 to 36 kg , where males tend to be heavier than females. This is assuming that your pup has a standard-sized Australian Shepherd parent. If your pooch comes from a Toy or Miniature Australian Shepherd, they could be much smaller. Their energy is far too boundless for anything but a spacious home with a large yard. Farms and ranches would also make a great home for this mixed breed. Do Aussie German Shepherds make good house dogs? With this crossbreed, you get a skilled guard dog and family companion, all rolled into one. Because this pooch is quite aloof and a little wary of strangers, it makes them a reliable watchdog. Exposure to different people and situations is essential for this hybrid. To keep them engaged, include plenty of praise and tasty treats. You might even consider muzzle training your hybrid friend, especially if he joins your pack as an adolescent or adult. This might seem harsh, but muzzles can be an excellent tool for keeping your dog and other people safe. If this crossbreed is starting to sound a little intimidating, keep in mind that they are completely devoted to their families, and they love to play! Take a minute to watch this video of Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix puppies playing with their littermates and toys. Your kids will enjoy this hybrid, too. Both German Shepherds and Australian Shepherds are known for their patience and friendliness toward children. Think of their crossbreed offspring as a canine nanny of sorts. You should also exercise caution if you have other pets in the home—especially pets that look like food. Confident, experienced owners who can spend a good portion of each day bonding with and training this pup will undoubtedly reap the rewards. Well-trained German Aussie mixes are capable of some amazing feats. You should still consider providing mental enrichment at home by giving your German Aussie Shepherd mix puzzles, interactive toys, as well as clicker and obedience training. Owning an Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix Every dog needs some assistance when it comes to general care and maintenance. One of the first things you need to consider when raising your Aussie German Shepherd is that they have moderate tolerance to heat. Do Australian German Shepherd mixes shed? Their crossbreed offspring is considered a moderate shedder with average grooming needs. But like other double-coated canines, they shed profusely during their bi-annual blowout — spring and fall. We recommend using a slicker brush and a rake while moving in the same direction as the hair growth. Baths should only be given when necessary using a mild dog shampoo when washing your pet to avoid irritating her skin or drying out her fur. Ears that are upright can quickly accumulate dirt and dust. Cleaning can be done once a week with a damp cloth or an ear wipe. Not only do sharp talons take the fun out of playing with your dog, but long claws can splinter and break. Most pups can do with a pedicure once a month or so, but this varies from dog to dog. Exercise: how much activity does a German Aussie Shepherd need? Plan on a full two hours of daily exercise for this fireball of a canine. Ideally, this time will be split between strenuous activity and play, training, or casual walks. To keep them and yourself happy, think outside the proverbial box. Walks are great, sure, but have you ever seen a GSD Aussie mix dock dive? What about flyball? This is one clever pooch, so they can learn to do just about anything. And for them, learning is half the fun. Combining exercise with mental exertion is a fantastic way to wear out your pup. It also strengthens your bond. You can teach your fur buddy to catch flying discs with this Kong Frisbee, which is well-loved by active fidos. For a satisfied Aussie German Shepherd tummy, aim for 2. Divide this amount into two meals to discourage overeating, bloat, and keep your canine friend fueled. Being overweight can be a sign of illnesses like insulinoma and hypothyroidism. Are Australian German Shepherd dogs healthy? Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mixes are generally healthy dogs that could enjoy a lifespan of 9 to 15 years! But like any dog, owners will still need to watch out for some health problems. Joint issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia are possible in both German Shepherds and Australian Shepherds. A few other health issues to look out for are hemophilia, degenerative myelopathy, epilepsy, drug sensitivity like MPR , EPI , and cancer. How much are Australian German Shepherd puppies? Wondering if you can afford one of these remarkable dogs? You might find one for a lower price, but expect to pay somewhere in this range. Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix breeders Picking a breeder is just as important as picking out your puppy. To make matters worse, you could get your heart set on an unhealthy pup. Keep in mind that these documents should include more than a standard vet checkup. The best breeders care just as much about their puppies as their clients do. Furthermore, breeders should have an evident bond with their pups. If the adult dogs or puppies at a breeding facility seem detached or fearful, this is a huge red flag. You might be able to find one of these pups through a rescue. For starters, you can save quite a bit of money. You also have the option of bringing home an older dog and avoiding the more trying aspects of puppyhood hello, potty training. Perhaps the most joyful part of doggy rescue is providing a needy pooch with a loving, stable home. One or two other breeds may be thrown into the mix. Origin Story of the Aussie German Shepherd Mix It might not be a shock to hear this about mixed breeds, but the origin story of the Australian Shepherd mixed with the German Shepherd is somewhat unclear. What is known about the German Shepherd Aussie is that the breed was developed sometime between the s and s. However, like other mix-breeds, the only way you can really decipher what this dog is all about is by understanding their purebred parents. Von Stephanitz did this by using a selection of the best shepherd breeds that were scattered around the German countryside. The German Shepherd dog also referred to as GSD has quickly proved to be capable of far more than just herding. Nowadays, these dogs are synonymous with police work, bomb and drug detection, and personal protection. While the breed was refined in the outback, this purebred got its actual start working the hills and countryside of Europe. In the last hundred years, the Aussie Shepherd transitioned to the Australian West, rounding up livestock for farmers and ranchers. They, too, are astute and will often try to outsmart their owners. So, be prepared to remain on your toes at all times. Australian Shepherd The Aussie Shepherd is an emotionally supportive dog but can, at times, be reserved and independent. At heart, the Australian Shepherd loves the company of its owners. Australian Shepherd and German Shepherd Mix Appearance Whenever you get a designer pup, you can never fully predict what physical traits the dog will adopt from either parent. These dogs are mostly well-proportioned with strong athletic bodies. Their sloping back and long legs give this half German Shepherd half Australian shepherd the ambling gait of a GSD with the pep-in-step of the Aussie. This hybrid will most likely have a fluffy, plumed tail that can be long or short. This will be dependent on which parent breed they take after. Their almond-shaped eyes are very expressive. With these dogs, their eyes are truly the windows to their soul. Eye colors vary from dog to dog. Typically, you can see them with brown, blue, or hazel eyes. In some cases, the German Shepherd Aussie can inherit Heterochromia , a condition that causes two different eye colors. Males tend to be at the heavier end of the scale. These dogs tend to sport a solid color, while a few might have a combination of colors. Some are even speckled or spotted dogs with a tricolor or tinges of silvery gray or brindle. It really depends on the parents and who has the dominant gene. Therefore, grooming these dogs can take a bit of time and concentrated effort. Grooming this hybrid requires plenty of brushing and trimming to keep their coats in top shape. Since their coats are primarily straight hairs, you can use a dog comb and a dematting brush at least twice each week. Baths should only be given when necessary using a mild dog shampoo. This will help to avoid irritating the dogs skin or drying out their fur. Doing so helps them avoid ear infections. And to finish off a full grooming program, keep their nails down with some quality dog nail clippers. If your dog gets enough exercise, it is less likely that they will need their nails clipped each month. If you run on asphalt or hike with them, their nails will naturally wear down. This designer mix, however, is a moderate shedder with half the grooming needs of their parents. This occurs in the Spring and Fall seasons when the dog will lose clumps of hair and shed much more than usual. During this time, it is best to take them to a groomer to effectively get rid of the shedding hair. Shaving is never the solution for dogs with a double coat. Shaving a double-coated dog can actually make it harder for them to cool off. This part of their personality is thanks to their German Shepherd heritage. However, both the German Shepherd and Australian Shepherd are amazing problem solvers and can work as police or service dogs. German Aussie puppies have a very high energy level, and without consistent exercise, they will make their boredom and frustration known. They will bark all night and day, chew on things and dig, dig, dig. Essentially, all this dog wants is to play with its family. They can be a little wary of strangers but are overall still very confident dogs. Their wariness of strangers makes them great guard dogs, though, so you can expect some barking from them when strangers approach. Are They a Good Family Dog? The German Shepherd and Aussie mix is a great addition to any family. They adore human attention and would fit best in an active family — they are a breed that enjoys going on long walks or hikes with their owners. This breed can get along with other pets. The most significant factor in their acceptance of other animals is their socialization when they are puppies. Both parent breeds are known for being quite relaxed as properly socialized dogs. They can even get along with cats and other small animals if introduced slowly and correctly. Well, it all boils down to the breeding business. Some breeders are well-established and have pedigree dogs in their kennels. Breeding is an expensive business, and very few breeders make any profit at all. To make matters worse, you could get your heart set on an unhealthy pup. These documents should include more than a standard vet checkup. The best breeders care just as much about their puppies as their clients do. When it comes to rescuing a German Shepherd Aussie mix, there are several benefits to adopting one. For starters, you can save quite a bit of money. You can also have the option of bringing home an older dog and avoid the highs and lows of potty training a whining puppy. One or two other breeds may be thrown into the mix. Take the time to observe if the breeders or rescue staff have an evident bond with their pups. If the adult dogs or puppies at one of these breeding or rescue facilities seem detached or fearful, this is a huge red flag. As both parent breeds were bred to be obedient working dogs, their cross also has that focus and obedience during training. With plenty of positive affirmations and repetition, you will have a wonderful, well-trained dog in no time. Exercise for German Shepherd and Australian Shepherd Mix As previously mentioned, this breed is highly energetic, so it needs plenty of exercise. The German Shepherd Aussie will need about 2 hours of activity spread throughout the day. But you will probably have to walk with them twice a day to fulfill their exercise quota for the week. Diet and Nutrition for the German Shepherd Aussie As an active breed, your German Shepherd Aussie mix needs a diet high in protein to keep its body and muscles strong and healthy. This is an estimated 1, calories a day. Divide this amount into two meals to discourage overeating and bloating. You should also check if your German Shepherd Aussie mix is gaining too much weight by doing a touch test. This is where you run your fingers through their coat and feel for their ribs. Being overweight can be a sign of illnesses like insulinoma a tumor of the pancreas and hypothyroidism an underactive thyroid condition. As for the Aussie Shepherd, this dog enjoys a life expectancy of between 12 and 15 years. It is suggested that the German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix could live for between 13 and 15 years, adopting its Aussie genetics. Sometimes, unsound breeding practices in their parents can contribute to a greater risk of hereditary conditions. Joint issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia are possible in German and Australian Shepherds. However, below are some potentially serious health conditions affecting the half Aussie half German Shepherd breed. Hemophilia An inherited condition that stops blood from clotting. Dogs with this condition can have prolonged, spontaneous bleeding from injuries or even from the nose and eyes. Epilepsy Seizures can be caused by trauma or sickness, but in many cases, the real reason is unknown. Luckily, this can be managed with lifelong medication. A visit to the vet may prescribe eye drops to reduce inflammation, but surgery to remove the cataract is the most effective treatment. It usually occurs after the dog has eaten or drank excessively, often just before or after exercise. The stomach starts to fill up with gas, then twists around on itself, cutting off the blood supply to the organs and rupturing the stomach lining. Without emergency surgery, the dog will not survive. Collie Eye Anomaly This is actually a group of eye problems affecting Collie-type breeds. They range from mild to potentially fatal, and some can cause blindness in one or both eyes. Your dog must be checked regularly for any sign of eye problems of this nature. Degenerative Myelopathy Degenerative myelopathy is a disease of the spinal cord that stops the brain from communicating with the hindquarters. It is a progressive disease that almost always results in complete paralysis of the back legs. In many cases, their front legs are weakened, and they become incontinent. The only good news here is that the dog is not in pain while experiencing this disease. They do, however, require a diligent owner. Novice pet parents or those with packed schedules should think twice before bringing one of these puppies home. The primary consideration you must make with these pups is their need for space and attention. As long as you make the effort, they will be an excellent addition to your home. Temperament: Work-oriented, people-pleasing, and intelligent. These differences among parent breeds mean that your mix will certainly be unique. They will typically be smaller than a standard German Shepherd but larger than a standard Australian Shepherd. Although both the parent breeds are herding dogs, there is still a lot of differences in their appearances. Height and Weight You can expect a fully grown Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix to weigh anywhere from pounds. Males tend to be at the heavier end of the scale, with females being at the lighter end. As for height, anywhere from inches tall. Colors and Coat We all know that German Shepherds are typically black and tan with a double coat. And Australian Shepherds come in a variety of different colors and mixes with a medium-length coat. This means that the Australian German Shepherd mix can come in many different colors and mixes of whites, blacks, tans, silvers, blues and greys. With both parent breeds having a medium-length double coat be prepared for grooming and shedding. These mixes will shed profusely twice a year during their bi-annual blowout. During this time you will need to brush the undercoat to remove the extra dead hair trapped. This will need to be done every day or so. This hybrid will excel at agility competitions. They can be wary of strangers which makes them amazing watchdogs. Do not be surprised if the Australian German shepherd tries to herd small kids. Australian Shepherd German Shepherd Mix Personality and Temperament One thing to keep in mind with this breed is that they need huge amounts of both mental and physical stimulation. Daily exercise will keep your German Shepherd Aussie mix happy and entertained, and prevent any destruction that can result from boredom. Their intelligence needs should be met by consistent training sessions to keep their mind sharp. Agility, herding, and tracking are a few sporting activities that this mix excels at. Whether or not you choose to compete in these events you should still consider some form of obedience training. They are hard workers and should be provided with enrichment to combat boredom. Because of their self-confidence and nearly unmatched intelligence, they excel in high-pressure jobs. They are amazing problem solvers and thus both the German Shepherd and Australian Shepherd can be used as police dogs or service dogs. Again as both their parent breeds were bred to herd flocks all day they have a very high energy level. Without consistent exercise, they will make their boredom and frustration known. A bored Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix will let you know by barking, chewing, and digging. Their high energy levels are almost as high as the affection they have for their family. This dog wants nothing more than to play with their family. They can be a little wary of strangers but are still an overall very confident dog. Their wariness of strangers makes them great guard dogs and you can expect some barking from them when strangers are near. However, this is not ideal for the sort of family who consistently has guests over and wants them to feel welcomed. The good thing is since the Australian German Shepherd mix is so easy to train this can easily be stopped by socializing them as a puppy. The Australian German Shepherd is a good family dog because of their loving nature. They enjoy human attention and would fit best in an active family — they are a breed that enjoys going on long walks or hikes with their owners. Caring for an Australian Shepherd German Shepherd Mix Remember these dogs require a great deal of physical and mental stimulation. This may be a mixed-breed dog but for the most part, they are still working dog. Be prepared for lots of exercise and mental stimulation. Also, their undercoat will need consistently raking out during shedding season. Training should begin early on so that they knows their boundaries — when properly trained they will make a great companion. Exercise Requirements This point can not be stressed enough — This crossbreed requires plenty of exercise and stimulating games. They are not ideal apartment dogs because of this and do best in a home that has a large yard or garden. A fun exercise that your Australian German Shepherd mix would enjoy is being in water. Both of their parent breeds are known for excelling at dock diving competitions so your mix should be no exception. They would appreciate a long walk each day and then some time to play in addition to this. They should be left off leash while in an enclosed backyard for playtime. Remember they do have prey driven instincts so while walking around the neighborhood it is important to keep them on leash. Grooming and Shedding Grooming and shedding are also important things to consider when getting an Australian German Shepherd mix. They will have a medium-length double coat that will require at least weekly brushing throughout the year. This mix will shed moderately all year long therefore if you suffer from pet allergies this will not be an ideal dog for you. Twice a year in the spring and fall they will shed their entire undercoat which will require daily brushing to avoid matting. At this time, you should expect to rake large clumps of undercoat from this dog. Their ears stand upright and naturally collect a lot of dust and dirt. This can lead to ear infections therefore it is crucial to clean their ears at least once a week as well. Bathing should be done as needed to avoid irritating the skin. Feeding and Diet When choosing what type of food to feed, you should look for a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age. Food that is low in carbs is also ideal. You should also consider the activity levels of your dog. Active dogs will need lots of protein to keep their muscles and body healthy. Some common health problems to watch out for are:. White, blue, silver, red, brown, gray, black, sable, cream Suitable for: Active families and singles, those with large outdoor spaces Temperament: Loyal, happy, obedient, loving These dogs are somewhat adaptable, but more than anything, they need plenty of exercise and prefer plenty of room to roam. That is why they are not good apartment dwellers. Overall, these dogs make excellent pets, especially if you want to train a working dog. If you are interested in adopting a German Australian Shepherd, read on to learn all you need to know about the breed, their history, and caring for them properly. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Both parent breeds are expensive, especially if they have a pedigree. If one of the parent dogs used in the cross to produce a German Australian Shepherd has a good family background and high-quality breeding, your puppy is bound to be more expensive. Hybrids are almost always less expensive than the average price for a purebred puppy. This fact stays true when you look into the price of a German Australian Shepherd. Since their parent dogs are relatively common in North America, there is a chance that you might find this mixed breed at a shelter. It is best to adopt an abandoned dog from a shelter instead of breeding more puppies. There are many positive aspects to getting a pup from a breeder, though. If you decide to go this route, ensure that you support a breeder that treats their dogs well. Ask to get a tour of their facility before adopting to ensure that the dogs are kept in a proper living space. German Shepherds have quite a few joint and back issues. They are energetic dogs but have down-to-earth personalities. That often translates into a sort of understanding of indoor and outdoor behaviors, knowing when to be rambunctious and lively and when to settle down. These dogs are loyal and can be trained to protect if you need them to. They tend to be good around and accepting of strangers if they have been appropriately socialized. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Since this dog is a medium to large breed , it is best to keep them around families without small kids, since their size alone can be damaging if they get rowdy. This breed can get along with other pets. The most significant factor in their acceptance of other animals is their socialization when they are younger. If they were not socialized much, they are likely to be more protective and territorial. Both parent breeds are known for being quite relaxed as properly socialized dogs. They can even get along with cats and other small animals if introduced slowly and the right way. They need about 3 cups of food divided between three meals during the day. It is best to find them food with a high protein level. This way, they can build muscle during their activities and stay in top shape instead of wearing out. The German Australian Shepherd is considered a high-energy breed. That means they will need about 2 hours of activity spread throughout the day. You can do things like go on walks with them, hike, swim, take them to the dog park, run, or work. If you prefer to walk with your dog more often than any other activity, you should try to walk them for about 14 miles each week. Another reason that they make such wonderful pets is their trainability. Both parent breeds were bred to be obedient working dogs. That makes their cross also easy to train. Use plenty of positive affirmation and repetition, and you will have a wonderful, well-trained dog. They have a double coat that they inherit from both of their parents. That means you will need to do plenty of grooming to keep their coats in healthy shape and mitigate the amount of fur that falls out. Since their coats are primarily made up of straight hairs, you can use a wide variety of combs without worrying about curls getting stuck and causing them pain. We suggest using a comb and a de-matter at least twice each week. Try to get out both the shedding top hairs and the dense undercoat. They will lose gobs of hair and shed much more than usual. It is best to take them to a groomer at least once during this period to most effectively get rid of the shedding hair. Use a damp, soft towel to get in their ear and clean out any dirt inside. Doing this helps them avoid ear infections. Finally, keep their nails clipped down using a nail clipper. If your pup gets enough exercise, it is less likely that they will need their nails clipped each month. If you run on asphalt or hike with them, their nails will naturally wear down. The German Shepherd in particular suffers from many bones and joint concerns, like hip dysplasia, because of their sloping back. There are still a few things that you want to watch out for, though. Minor Conditions. Applies to all dog food recalls in the U. The German Shepherd mixed with Australian Shepherd dogs weighs from 46 to 65 pounds. Its parent breeds are notably medium to large-sized dogs. The height of this crossbreed could range from 20 to 23 inches. Its coat is remarkably dense. You should be wary about warm places due to the coat of this dog. The colors of their coat can come out as a combination of white, black, blue, red, cream, silver, and sable. The Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix makes a very energetic dog, suitable for owners and families with an active lifestyle. This dog also loves going outdoors and exploring nature. The German Shepherd crossed with Australian Shepherd dogs are intelligent dogs. They can be trained well to become service and therapy dogs. High intelligence causes less worry and more pride to the owners. The trainers would require less training time for this crossbreed. The mixed puppy has a clingy nature. Its affectionate nature may also contribute to a fearful state, often leading to separation anxiety. This condition may be averted by employing effective obedience training and socialization. Overall, this crossbreed is a dependable and wonderful companion. Australian Shepherd Crossed with German Shepherd Puppies for Sale Finding a breeder for a crossbreed tends to be more difficult than going into a pet store and purchasing a new pet. The quality of the crossbreed is drastically high when the dog is acquired through reliable breeders. One place where you can spot potential professional breeders is at a dog show. Certified breeders often attend this event. You can gauge the temperament and disposition of some dog breeds during the dog show as well. This event could help you decide better on what breed to get. There are designated and verified parent clubs that you can access and reach out to. These parent clubs provide support for breed-specific studies, along with the help of AKC. You can seek out public opinion regarding some breeders. There are breeders with website and comments. You will see disappointed owners or prospective buyers if the breeder has pending issues on the environment and health problems of the dogs. There is no accessible list of substantiated breeders for the Australian Shepherd German Shepherd Mix dogs at this time. These places are good grounds for acquiring your new family member. Following these steps will assure that your dog will be in top appearance throughout all the seasons. Brushing is an essential part of grooming this mixed breed. The German Shepherd Australian Shepherds shed heavily throughout the year. Brushing is beneficial in developing your bond with your dog as well as its aesthetic value. I recommend two to four times of brushing per week for this crossbreed. Another function of brushing the coat is providing proper insulation for the dog. Some owners prefer this step. This may or may not reduce the insulating property of the coat. There is a possibility that the coat will not grow as well as before it was shaved. While you are brushing its coat, you should also check for tick and flea infestations. You may also need a pair of thinning shears. You need to do minimal trimming of the feet, tail, ears, britches, and legs. With the use of a slicker brush, you will gently brush the hair from the toes toward the leg of the dog. You will cut the hair sticking above the foot and the lengthier hair surrounding the foot. You can use the shears to cut a vertical line at the end of the tail. You only need to cut the hair with excess length. Trimming this part involves following the natural curve of the coat. The special spot to notice is the coat on the ear. If you lack the basic grooming tools or enough time, there are dog wash salons that may also offer grooming services. You can also contact and find professional groomers to help you with the activity. The risk factors and genetic mutations in the parent breeds affect the disposition of the offspring. The Australian Shepherd parent breed is relatively healthier than the other dog breeds. It suffers less skin, coat, and bone problems. It manifests as spontaneous bleeding. Dogs could have internal bleeding in muscles or joints. Hip and elbow dysplasia: This malformation can spontaneously occur to the dog. It leads to joint inflammation at a young dog age. The cartilage in the hip socket is greatly affected in this disease. This degenerative disease ultimately ends in blindness. Epilepsy: It is a serious neurologic disorder that can be triggered by infections and injury. This may have structural or idiopathic causes. For German Shepherd crossed with Australian Shepherd dogs, this health issue has an idiopathic origin. Collie Eye Anomaly: This is a group of eye issues that may be minor to fatal. It may cause unilateral or bilateral disturbances. If you established enough rapport with the breeder, you can contact him more about the proper management of the dogs. Professional breeders will gladly inform you about the health hazards, genetic and non-genetics, and other things you need to watch for. They made the effort to subject the parent dogs and the offspring to screening tests. A regular appointment with a reliable veterinarian can help you a lot in maintaining the health of the German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix dogs. Australian Shepherd Crossed with German Shepherd Food Requirements You will need a great diet plan to sustain the energy of this agile crossbreed. This mixed pup could grow to a helpful working dog, so it is crucial to maintaining a steady and strong development. A healthy quantity of the dog depends on some variables. It is advisable to divide the food servings into two meals each day. Some essential minerals for the development of puppies are chloride and sodium. They affect the cardiac and skeletal muscles. They also contribute to the correct functioning of the nervous system. Below is a list of the recommended dry food for the Australian Shepherd crossed with German Shepherd dogs. These ingredients contribute to building strong muscles and giving energy to the dog. It is gluten-free. The formula has Omega-3 and Omega-6 for a shiny coat. It also includes minerals for the optimal function of the joints and strength of teeth and bones. Orijen Dog Food: This well-known formulation has a high content of protein, amounting to 75 to 80 percent. The recipe for this dog food is patterned on the diet of the wolf ancestors. Canidae Life Stages: This is quite a one-size-fits-all dog food. It can be suitable for dogs of all ages and kinds. It is equipped with antioxidants, fatty acids, and probiotics. It contains chicken, turkey, lamb, oatmeal, potatoes, brown rice, white rice, and cracked pearled barley. It can be digested easily. It has a healthy source of fat called flaxseed. It is important to know the benefits of this dry food, like its advantage to the brain and eye development. It has vitamins C and E that provide help to the immune system. This is a vet-approved formulation without any artificial flavors and colors. It has whole grain wheat, whole grain corn, whole grain oats, and whole grain corn. Giving proper nutrition does not end in providing the food. You need to monitor if the diet contributes to the good development of the dog. You can check for possible weight gain by touching his spine and ribs. There is a breed standard that the dogs need to achieve. If you are able to feel the ribs, the dog is less likely to be overweight. Owners should be cautious with the possibility of obesity because it may be a manifestation of a systemic disease like hypothyroidism, insulinoma. Your inquiries can be addressed by setting up an appointment with a veterinarian. The professional can also create a detailed diet plan for the dog. There are also some brands that you should keep off of their food bowls, such as the worst dry dog food. Dogs pass on the genes to their puppy pups, and thus they can develop a different taste for food, which is why you can try your luck with the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. If you own a puppy, scan through the best puppy food brands, and for gray-coated grandpa doggos, chose something from the best senior dry dog food list. All changes in nutrition should be made after discussing it with your vet. The crossbreed inherited the athletic nature of its parent breeds. The duration of vigorous physical activities should be at least one and a half hour. Different techniques to gain the attention and interest of the Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix puppies are required to avoid irritability and aggressiveness from manifesting. You can involve the dog in physical activities such as long walks, jogging, hiking, tug-of-war, and fetching. Tug-of-war may intimidate some new owners because it could lead to increased aggression. This has great benefits if done properly, such as teaching about rules and boundaries and bonding with your dog. For fetching activities, the Legendog Flying Disc Rubber Catcher is a great toy that can fly higher than the average flying discs. It has edge bulges to let the dogs bite firmly. It keeps the dog fairly occupied. It has no preservatives, salt, sugar, or plastic. You can give it to dogs of all ages. Australian Shepherd Crossed with German Shepherd Training The German Shepherd crossed with Australian Shepherd dogs has a high possibility of being hailed as service dogs, involved in search and rescue, and therapy dogs. These dogs are highly trainable and willing to learn. The owner has a role in supporting and keeping a level head during the training process. The emotions of the owners could confuse and distract the dogs. Choose particular tasks: You can heighten the productivity of the dog if you choose to train it with specific tasks. These tasks may involve fetching the newspaper or loading the dishwasher. Never hit your dog: This action will affect your bond with the dog. The dog could see you as a threat and attack you. It may develop antisocial personality traits. Basic commands: The breeding instinct of the Australian Shepherd may manifest in their offspring. Invest in obedience classes: Your dog will benefit greatly with knowing the basic commands through formal classes. You can have fewer frustrations as well because another person is responsible for the training. It is important to allow time for the dog to process the commands and avoid unnecessary pressure. Training will also contribute to better mental health for the dogs. If you are hesitant of the proper training techniques for your dog, you can refer to an experienced dog trainer. It is affectionate and loyal to its owners. An important factor in building a good family dynamics with the Australian Shepherd German Shepherds is making the dog feel that it can be part of the family, even if it is still new. You must do early socialization. This will contribute to their potential in becoming therapy dogs, service dogs, or herders. Aside from its benefit to family dynamics, socialization allows the dog to be friendly to your friends. They are also friendly to children. With the proper training and early socialization, you can be assured that these dogs will exhibit minimal herding behaviors with your little children and other animals. You need to be careful in dealing with boredom in these crossbreeds. They could manifest with destructive behaviors if left unattended for a long period of time. These behaviors may include excessive barking which may affect your relationship with your neighbors.
Keep reading to discover a reputable breeder in your area and see where boxer puppies are for sale in California! This small family-owned kennel focuses on improving and maintaining the Boxer breed via regular genetic testing, careful breeding practices, and a rigorous puppy placement process. Website: TelstarBoxers Telstar Boxers is a family-operated Boxer breeder in Temecula with a long history of producing healthy, well-trained pups. Their intense adoption policies ensure that only the most capable and caring pet parents end up with Telstar Boxer puppies. Notably, they also offer white Boxer pups at lower prices than their dark-furred puppies, making them one of the most affordable options for Californian pet parents. But in addition to the convenient location, Soleil Boxers is preferable due to their professional practices. Should you ever need to surrender your Boxer, Soleil Boxers will gladly accept the pup back into their care to make sure that it continues to receive the best care. This area is home to dozens of farms and ranches, making it an excellent place for boisterous Boxer puppies to grow up. Pet parents who want to breed Boxer dogs can also purchase studs from Encore Boxers. Things to Consider When Choosing Boxer Breeders Before you place a deposit on a Boxer puppy, be sure to take a little time to research your chosen breeder. Unfortunately, not all dog breeders are reputable, and purchasing a Boxer from an untrustworthy breeder can be a dangerous endeavor. For example, purebred Boxer dogs can develop hyperthyroidism , aortic stenosis, and hip dysplasia. However, many of the most severe health problems are entirely preventable with regular genetic testing. The best Boxer breeders in California test the DNA of their breeding pairs before allowing them to produce offspring, preventing them from puppies with life-shortening degenerative diseases. When adopting a Boxer puppy, ensure that your chosen breeder invests in genetic testing. Public Reputation Do you know what people are saying about your preferred Boxer breeder? Instead, they ensure that each puppy finds their ideal pet parent match. This process is typically done via an in-depth vetting process that may consist of a lengthy application or an at-home visit. In Summary—the Best Boxer Breeders in California The Boxer breed often gets a bad rap, but purebred Boxer pups from reputable breeders are often some of the gentlest and well-behaved dogs on the face of the earth. And those living in The Golden State have the good luck of having several trustworthy Boxer breeders from which to choose! Taking these additional steps before buying a Boxer dog can ensure that your new four-legged family member lives a long and happy life. Related Posts. My fascination for this breed actually began as a child while growing up in Great Britain. The yearly outing with my father was one I looked forward to with much anticipation. Years later I married my husband, Gene. It was always my ambition to one day bring a boxer into our own family, to be raised together with our two young sons. In we ventured out to purchase our first American bred boxer. Both my husband and I consider ourselves very fortunate indeed to have been able to purchase a beautiful, show potential brindle bitch named Chelsea from Glenn and Zona Grupe of Glennroe Boxers. Attending shows together, Zona and I put four owner-handled majors in quick succession on our beautiful Chelsea. As our foundation bitch, she launched Telstar on its way to success. Much more, I might add, than my wildest dreams. Striving to do the very best we possibly can in every aspect of raising, breeding and showing our own dogs has enabled me to enjoy the benefits of knowing our achievements have come from our love and devotion for the Boxer. Showing and breeding has had additional perks. I have had the great fortune of meeting many wonderful people along the way. As a boxer breeder, I also derive a great deal of satisfaction when placing a pet puppy in a companion home, knowing that these buyers benefit not only from our philosophy of breeding a quality, healthy, structurally sound boxer, but also from having the joy and love of owning one. I still enjoy competing as an owner handler, and oddly enough, still feel that same overwhelming sense of accomplishment being on the other end of the leash when I finish the championship on one of my dogs. The feeling is no different than I felt in the beginning, some thirty years ago. A note to all those on the waiting list. We are so sorry the website was temporarily shut down. We were having technical difficulties, So happy its back on. But we were always here to continue breeding for your fur baby. Thankyou for being patient, always look forward to helping you. We are Sublime Boxers, a family orientated breeder. We love placing our boxers with loving homes. Show quality dog, or family pet, we got them! We do a lot for our dogs. Our adult dogs get wormed every three months and updated on their shots. Momma dogs get extra worming before and during their litters to ensure the pups get less-to-none of those nasty worms that are certain in every puppy dog or cat. Then, pups get their regiment of worming before they go home, as well as their 1st puppy shot. All adult dogs are on NuVet, which is a vitamin with antioxidants to ensure the puppies are at their best before they go home. We also give you a puppy pack to get you started with your new puppy. Contents include a bag of food to lessen the stress of a new environment. All our dogs are loved, have large pens, and run around our 1-acre yard. We spray throughout the year to keep the fleas and flys at bay, as everything can affect the dogs and puppies. We have had nothing but excellent comments from owners, telling us how fantastic their puppy is in looks, smarts, temperament, and loving nature. That is why we take great pride in our dogs. Through selective breeding, we have kept an excellent line of boxers with a lovable temperament that has been consistent throughout the years, including even out most recent litters of puppies. We also give a one-year health guarantee, that you can extend to 2 years if you keep your puppy on NuVet, which is a supplement that helps your puppy with the stress of growing up by building its immune system. We hope that we can help you with finding your next loved pet.
However, there are details on the history of the parent breeds. Border Collie dogs were sheep-herding dogs on the landscape of the Anglo-Scottish border area. Siberian Husky dogs were traveling and hunting companions of the Chukchi people in Siberia. The Border Collie Husky Mix pups have a lifespan of 12 to 20 years. They may be at risk for bone disorders, such as chronic myelopathy, osteoarthritis, and intervertebral disc disorder. Both of the parent breeds often have a medium-length coat. They can also have short and smooth coats that are weather-resistant. You can expect the Border Collie crossed with Husky puppies will have this kind of coat as well. Playful and active, the Husky Border mixed with Collie puppies require an above-average amount of physical activity. They may also have territorial characteristics, and they become defensive and aggressive. Due to the combination of its parent breeds, this mixed breed may have serious health problems such as achondroplasia, a structural health condition, and intervertebral disc disease. Corgi mixed with Border Collie puppies have coats that are often thick, and wavy or long. It may shed more generously than other breeds. You need to employ a regular grooming regimen for this pup. Regarding exercise, Poodle mixed with Border Collie puppies need at least 40 minutes of physical activity per day. You may choose to let them walk, swim, or chase a ball. It is better to conduct these activities outside. If the puppy is less than 10 months old, you should avoid your pup from doing excessive exercise. You may contact breed-specific shelters or professional breeders that can assist you in adopting this mixed breed. You will find Border Collie Poodle Mix puppy to be very intelligent and easy to train. Also, they can be all-around companions due to their people-oriented and loyal traits. However, there are pertinent details on the history of its parent breeds. German Shepherd, a herding breed, came from Europe to withstand damp and cold surroundings. On the other hand, the other herding breed Border Collie was prominent in Scotland where they protect livestock. AKC officially recognized the breed in .Border Collie German Shepherds are heavy shedders, particularly during spring. Nutrition is a key factor to promote optimal growth. The amount of food will depend on the size, level of activity, and age of the dog. For young Border Collie mixed with German Shepherd puppies, you need to give high-quality feeds packed with nutrients and vitamins. They have a prominent herding instinct and prey drive, attributable to both parent breeds. You should be extremely cautious when they play with small children and other animals. Collie Beaglers are eager to please the owner and easy to train. They are cooperative, and they will follow your commands accordingly. Beagle Border Collie Mix puppies will not acquire many structural disabilities, unlike other breeds. You should watch out for manifestations of hip dysplasia and epilepsy. If you get a puppy from a breeder, you should ask for the health clearance of the parent dogs. Exercise is crucial for the puppy for two reasons. First, it keeps the muscle and bones healthy. Second, it helps the pup adopt to the new environment. When the Border Collie mixed with Beagle puppy arrives at home for the first time, it is advisable to start with an exercise routine immediately. The amount of food appropriate for the pup will depend primarily on its weight and the season. Border Collie Labrador Mix puppies need more food during the winter season than the summer. For puppies that are less than six months old, you should feed them four times a day. When they are more than six months, they can eat for only two times per day. Concerning the grooming of Labrador and Border Collie mix puppies, they tend to keep themselves in check. You need less effort and time as you will brush their coat once or twice a week only. You should do thorough research on the available and qualified breeders near you. Also, you can search for this pup in rescue shelters. Their history is unknown, but I can share details on its parent breeds. Chihuahua dogs are descendants of the Techichi breed. They were believed to be the guides of the dead souls. Meanwhile, Border Collie dogs came from the borderland between Scotland and England. They were herding dogs with agility and intellect. Chihuahua mixed with Border Collie puppies can also have a herding instinct and aggressiveness. Chihuahua Border Collie Mix dogs need an intense exercise regimen. You should engage them in at least two long walks. You can expect the offspring to have a long coat as well. They are most probably heavy shedders too. To keep the skin moisturized, you need to give them regular baths. Border Collie Chow Chow Mix dogs can be prone to dysplasia. I recommend adding fish oil and chondroitin supplements in their food. You can adjust the amount of food by considering their level of activity and weight. Chow Chow mixed with Border Collie puppies have high energy in them. They can take on extremely long hikes and walks. They have a quiet disposition, and they are often calm. With early socialization, Border Collie mixed with Australian Shepherd pups are lovable and family-friendly. Be careful in leaving your pet for a long time because it can have separation anxiety. The coat of Aussie Collie becomes ruffled easily. Thus, you need to brush it at least four times per week. You can also avoid ear infection by checking and cleaning the ears regularly. To acquire a Border Collie Australian Shepherd Mix puppy for your home and family, a trustworthy breeder or a rescue shelter is what you need. However, I can tell you about the historical data of its parent breeds. The Dachshund dogs were from Germany. The medium-sized kind of this breed kept the burrow-dwelling animals away from the field. For Border Collies, they were herders, excellent for controlling the flock. Dachshund mixed with Border Collie puppies are family-oriented and friendly to people. They can be companion dogs as they are active and amiable. Collie Dachers are eager to please. You should remember to keep fresh water accessible for the pup at all times. For its food, the amount will depend on the size, weight, age, and level of physical activity. Applies to all dog food recalls in the U. From this information, you can anticipate the Border Collie mixed with Pug puppy will be a heavy shedder as well. A bath is necessary when the dog is noticeably dirty. You have to brush its coat regularly. If you can keep up with a high energy dog, Pug crossed with Border Collie puppies are suitable for you. These dogs will often go around the lot. You should make time to cater for their need for adequate physical activities. A mixed breed has a lower chance of getting serious health problems and complications. A reliable and qualified breeder will show the health clearance of the parent breeds. An appropriate exercise routine will comprise of a morning, afternoon, and night activities. Border Collie mixed with Cocker Spaniel puppies love attention, and they are amiable to children and families. Cocker Spaniel Border Collie Mix dogs can be an excellent watchdog. They can distinguish potentially harmful intruders from friendly strangers. To find a reputable breeder, you may ask referrals from a local veterinarian and breed club officers. They resort to eating things in front of them when you leave them on their own devices for a long time. For their diet, you can give them dry feeds with high protein content and necessary vitamins. American Bulldog mixed with Border Collie dogs are overall healthy and less prone to develop fatal diseases. It is still crucial to have regular check-ups with a trusty veterinarian, as they could acquire allergies at some point. The coat type of American Collie pups can be short to moderate and dense. They are minimal shedders. To keep the coat healthy and shiny, I advise that you brush the coat regularly. However, knowing the details about its parent breeds is helpful in predicting its characteristics. The Akita breed is believed to have hailed from the Akita province in northern Japan in the s. They were royal guards and hunters of large game like bears. On the other hand, Border Collie pups were bred to withstand and enjoy 20 miles of running and herding per day. Border Collie crossed with Akita puppies may have an innate aggressiveness, due to the hunting work of Akita. They have predictable high energy and will not be suitable for living in apartments. To adopt an Akita mixed with Border Collie puppy, you need to find trustworthy breeders in your area or breed-specific shelters. They are becoming popular in dog sports nowadays. For proper training, they need positive reinforcement and firm boundaries. Blue Heeler crossed with Border Collie puppies are friendly to children and other dogs with early and frequent socialization. Blue Collie pups are incredibly athletic. They enjoy sports like flyball and agility exercises. You should prevent this pup from getting bored because they may cause trouble. Be sure to engage the dog with enough physical and mental stimulation. The parent breed English Bulldog are descendants of ancient mastiffs hailing from Asia, and the English Bulldog were brought to England. English Bulldog mixed with Border Collie puppies have an independent streak. They manage well on their own when the house becomes too busy. Border Collie crossed with English Bulldog dogs have a yearning to be a member of a pack. They are affectionate and do not want to be left alone for an extended period. Border Collie crossed with English Bulldog puppies with a short coat type tend to shed heavily, as their parent breeds do. You should have a regular grooming regimen for them. The common ones you should know are skin allergies, eye defects, cancer, and heart problems. At all times, avoid overfeeding the dog. The Golden Retriever crossed with Border Collie puppies need vitamins and proper nutrition to ensure a healthier disposition. If you want to adopt or buy this mixed breed, be sure to contact reliable breeders or ask recommendations from your local veterinarian. Reliable sources of the Golden Collies will provide health clearance of the parent breeds. You can provide food-dispensing toys to avoid boredom and promote mental stimulation. Inadequate stimulation and exercise will lead to unruly behaviors. The Great Pyrenees crossed with Border Collie dogs are loyal and protective of their owners. They go along well with children and friendly strangers. Although the Border Collie mixed with Great Pyrenees dog is more fond of cold weather than hot weather, it can tolerate warm weather as well. Great Pyrecollie pups experience seasonal shedding. They require moderate to high levels of grooming maintenance. I advice brushing at least twice per week. You should also do regular ear and eye care for a lower chance of infection. Furthermore, they have an innate loyalty for defending the family, and they are affectionate to their owners and the friends of their owners. They can be reliable watchdogs, ready to call out people who are making suspicious acts. They are keen on observing their surroundings. With its short to medium-length and straight coat, Border Collie crossed with Bernese Mountain Dog puppies can have a moderate to heavy shedding. To keep the coat shiny and healthy, you need to use a medium-toothed comb and pin brush. Known as high-energy dogs, Bernese Collie pups need more exercise than other breeds. You can engage the pup with swimming, running, and fetching. These ancestors were engaged in a blood sport called bull baiting. The Bulldogs mated with Terriers, initiating the propagation of Pitbulls. With a lifespan of mid-teens, nutrition will play a crucial role in keeping the dog up and about. If you see signs on malnutrition, you should consult with a veterinarian. To ensure a healthy and properly-cared mixed breed, you need to find a reputable and qualified breeder who sells Pitbull mixed with Border Collie. You need to avoid a mix of a damaged Pitbull with a Border Collie. You can ask for health clearance of parent breeds. Border Collie Catahoula Mix dogs have heightened herding and hunting instincts. However, they are often good-natured and suitable companions. You need to engage them in early socialization to have better interactions with people and other dogs. The Catahoula mixed with Border Collie puppies have high energy and above-average intelligence. They need to have lots of physical and mental exercises. The Border Collie crossed with Catahoula are overall healthy. However, they may be at risk for deafness, dysplasia, and eye diseases. You should brush their coat regularly to assist in proper shedding, stimulate essential oil production, and keep it healthy. You should give a bath as needed. Long walks are necessary to use up all its energy. Collieshitzuer puppies are committed and loyal dog companions. They are affectionate and calm. Shih Tzu crossed with Border Collie dogs are keen on observing their surroundings, and they can detect potentially harmful strangers. The Doberman breed hailed from Germany. They excelled at guarding, military work, and police work. On the other hand, Border Collie dogs are believed to be descendants of the older British droving dogs mixed with Spaniels. They were companions of shepherds and controlled flocks well. Border Collie mixed with Doberman dogs typically consume 3 cups of dog food per day. You can adjust the amount, based on their weight and level of activity. To adopt a Collie Dobler, you can seek the help of recognized kennel clubs and veterinarians for breeder recommendations. They are known as gentle giants, as they are rarely aggressive. .The Newfoundland mixed with Border Collie dogs are fond of the outdoors and nature. It is favorable if you have an enclosed garden with adequate space to walk around. The Border Collie mixed with Newfoundland puppies need a moderate amount of physical exertion. They enjoy playing with a large ball. Health is not a major concern for the Newfoundland crossed with Border Collie dogs. However, you should be aware that their massive frame can cause an extra strain in their musculoskeletal system, especially during old age. Striking a perfect balance of nutrients from early on is essential. Start by learning the difference between the nutritional requirements of a puppy and a senior dog. The little ones need more lipids because of rapid growth. So, opting for any of the best puppy food brands is a wise choice as they provide the pooch with the much-needed readily available energy. On the other side are older pooches, whose needs are better met with formulas found in best senior dry dog food. Nutritional deficiencies are a bummer but are far from the worst possible scenario. As long as the pooch is in good health, they can recoup any micronutrient or the so-called superfood they lack. To help you navigate through the dog food market here are our top picks to give you sense of what premium-quality dog food should look like: Wellness Core Dog Food offers a wide range of products for different breeds and life stages, but all of them have one thing in common: dog food that is scientifically tailored to meet the nutritional needs of any dog. Apart from being all-natural and preservative-free, this line of food offers healthy treats and snacks like doggy peanut butter. Border Collie crosses come in all shapes and sizes, so before you go on and buy a bunch of kibbles, make sure you know the difference between the best dry dog food for small dogs and the best large breed dry dog food —they can both be healthy but are not equally suited for dogs of all sizes. By breeding a herding dog into a sturdy canine with a powerful reputation in canine sports, you will have an excellent hybrid from a Border Collie and Bulldog parents. England is the home of the Bulldogs where they originally came from the ancient mastiff canines. Because of the popularity of bull baiting in the area during that time, the development of the Bulldogs came out for that purpose. However, because of the controversies intertwined with it, bull baiting was eventually outlawed in .Having that in mind, lots of people who admired the stamina of the Bully assumed that this dog would also disappear. Yet, their endurance and persistence saved them from the bull baiting reputation. And that paved the way to the re-engineering of a strong, muscular yet sweet and gentle Bulldog. Finally, in , the American Kennel Club recognized this powerful dog breed. Another local settler of England and also one of the parent breeds in the mix is the Border Collie. In the midst of Scotland and England, this excellent herding dog became a great asset of shepherds. Their agility and great performance as working dogs led them to the heart of Queen Victoria. Until then, their excellent herding skill is a major element for continued breeding of this canine. Appearance size, weight, color Since the Border Collie Bulldog mix came from mating a BC and a Bully, its appearance may generally fall in between its parent breeds. The Border Collies are medium-sized dogs that weighs up to 42 pounds. Meanwhile, the Bulldogs, which are also medium-built, an adult female and male have a weight of 40 and 50 pounds, respectively. Upon standing, their height starts at 12 to 15 inches at the shoulder of the Bulldogs and 18 to 25 inches for the Border Collies. So, expect to meet the size of the Border Collie Bulldog mix within the above-mentioned size range. Obviously, one can never go wrong by looking at the stance of the Bulldogs. They have fine-textured coats that are short-length and really smooth. The color spectrum of the Bully comes in brindles, fawn, solid shades especially white and red. You can also see some Bulldogs in solid black but it is not really usual. Meanwhile, its Border Collie parent is famous for its two types of coat, the rough and the smooth. Aside from that, they are double-coated dog breeds in which the outer coat feels coarse and the undercoat has a smooth texture. Usually, you can see them flaunting a black and white-colored coat. Perhaps, the other colors that they may boast for are the solid color, bicolor, tricolor, and merle. That means that you can also see a Border Collie Bulldog mix wearing any of those color shades. Plus, it also provides you with a fun loving and sociable furry companion as a bonus. A family-oriented dog, no members of the family nor the kids will be aloof from the Border Collie Bulldog mix. If the Bulldog breed runs strongly in their blood, the dog will showcase a strong personality and tend to be a leader. With that, prepare yourself to be an autonomous and dedicated owner. They always want to be in control but with proper introduction and early socialization, mingling with other animals will never be a problem. The Border Collie Bulldog mix is a highly independent dog breed. They are affectionate and spending more time with you is one of their desires. However, leaving them alone for a long time will result in destructive behavior. Grooming The coat of the Border Collie Bulldog mix is generally short. Yet, despite it, this dog breed is a moderate to heavy shedder. Weekly brushing will be a big help in reducing the amount of shedding. Bathing them is another good step to make, but make sure that you do not do it frequently. Frequent brushing will dry their skin out. It is also important to schedule their nail trimming on a once-a-month basis. Yet, they are still susceptible to experiencing some genetic issues. The Border Collie Bulldog mix, being a mix breed, is more prone to some health problems. Aside from that, there are other health problems that the parent breeds may suffer from. And, the mixed breed will also have the possibility to experience it. Here are some of the health issues that a Border Collie Bulldog mix may also have to deal with: Epilepsy. Both parent breeds have strong work ethics; this mix will need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. The American Bulldog Border Collie Mix should do well in apartment living if they receive enough daily activity. Still, they will thrive in more spacious homes, such as those with yards that can be used for playtime or running around. Training this hybrid breed should start early on using positive reinforcement techniques such as treats or verbal praise to encourage good behavior. This hybrid combines two beloved and popular breeds of dogs with their own proud history and heritage. The American Bulldog is an athletic breed that dates back to the 19th century when it was used as a farmhand by farmers in England and America. Meanwhile, the Border Collie is known for its intelligence, often used as herding dogs on farms throughout the British Isles. By combining these two breeds, owners can have a loyal companion with lots of energy who will be active and eager to learn commands and tricks from their owners. The combination of these two breeds results in a healthy, medium-sized dog with an outgoing personality and plenty of smarts to make it easy to train. This unique hybrid breed combines the physical characteristics of two popular herding dogs — the American Bulldog and the Border Collie. The result is a beautiful blend of short legs, big eyes, and floppy ears that make for an eye-catching pooch. This active dog has a solid body structure with strong muscle definition and thick fur that comes in many colors, including white, tan, black, gray, brown, red, and merle. They typically have a broad head, well-defined cheek muscles, and strong jaws. Their coat is usually medium to long in length, which can be either straight or wavy. Temperament: Personality Traits A mix of two popular breeds, the American Bulldog Border Collie Mix is a great pet for those looking for a loyal and intelligent companion. They are known to have wonderful temperaments that combine the intelligence, playfulness, and alertness of the Border Collie with the loyalty, agility, and strength of the American Bulldog. This hybrid breed is also incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various lifestyle choices. The American Bulldog Border Collie Mix possesses some unique personality traits that make them an ideal pet in many households. They are highly trainable due to their intelligence and desire to please their owners. Additionally, these dogs enjoy active lifestyles such as hiking or running and can easily adapt to different environments, including apartment living or rural areas. These dogs are known for their strength, intelligence, and loyal personalities, making them great companion dogs. Proper grooming of this breed includes regular brushing to remove dead fur and prevent mats or tangles in the coat. This should be done at least once every week with a slicker brush or pin brush, depending on the length of the fur. This mix brings together some of the best qualities from both breeds but also comes with some potential health concerns. Common conditions include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, allergies, eye problems such as entropion and ectropion , epilepsy, and ear infections. These are all issues that can be managed with proper veterinary care. However, many of these conditions may require lifelong management or even surgery in some cases. Training: Tips for Training Training a hybrid dog, such as an American Bulldog border collie mix, is an exciting and rewarding experience. These dogs have a unique combination of characteristics from both breeds, making them intelligent and agile with an affinity for learning. To get the most out of training your pup, keep in mind these tips. First and foremost, it is important to remember that patience is key when training any dog. The American Bulldog border collie mix is no exception; these pups can be quite energetic, so taking things slow will help ensure success during the training process. Additionally, positive reinforcement techniques should always be used rather than harsh reprimands or punishment; this will create a strong bond between you and your pup while also improving their overall behavior. Diet: Food and Nutrition Diet is crucial for any pet, but especially for a unique mix breed such as the American Bulldog Border Collie. An appropriate diet should provide all the necessary nutrients while avoiding overconsumption of calories or unhealthy fats. The American Bulldog, Border Collie mix, is an active breed that requires plenty of exercises to stay healthy and fit. Therefore, their diet should be high in protein and complex carbohydrates to provide sustained energy throughout the day. Omega-3 fatty acids are also important for coat health, helping to keep skin supple and shiny. Additionally, vitamins A, D, E, and K are essential components of any canine diet; a supplement may be necessary if these nutrients cannot be provided through normal food sources alone. Also Read : Can dogs eat nuts? Conclusion: Summary of the Breed The American Bulldog Border Collie Mix is a popular hybrid dog that has been gaining attention in the world of canine companionship. This unique combination of two versatile working breeds results in an obedient, loyal, and energetic pup eager to please its owner. These pups have become increasingly popular due to their intelligence, enthusiastic attitude, and ability to excel in various activities. Their natural athleticism and agility make them ideal for sports such as flyball or agility courses. Their desire for human interaction means they thrive when given tasks like herding livestock or pulling carts. This mix breed is a multi-talented companion that will bring joy to any home they enter! Height: 12 - 16 inches at the shoulder Weight: lb. Lifespan: years Bulldog Border Collie Mix Personality Like all hybrids, you have to look to the parents to get a good read on how they will likely behave. The Border Collie is one of the sweetest dogs you will ever encounter and the Bulldog is too. This might be one of the most fun loving and friendly dogs that you will ever encounter. This should make a very friendly, family oriented dog. If it takes after the Bulldog, they might be an alpha with a strong personality and needs a strong owner with experience who can set themselves as pack leader. They should get along well with other animals if exposed and socialized properly as well. They are somewhat capable of independence, or alone time when the house is noisy or full. She responds well to positive reinforcement, like all dogs. She should be rather affectionate and enjoy spending lots of time with you. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. The Bulldog mixed with the Border Collie might be prone to hip dysplasia, etc Note that these are just common problems in both breeds. This will be a moderate to heavy shedding dog with shorter hair. Both of these dogs shed like crazy. Either way, get ready to invest in a good vacuum if you want to keep your floors clean! Give them baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out their skin. Never tie your dog up outside - that is inhumane and not fair to him. What are the exercise requirements? Plan on taking them for extremely long walks and hikes to keep their energy level down. This exercise will keep them from being destructive. A tired dog is a good dog. What are the training requirements? This is an extremely intelligent dog that will be easy to train, however, it might be extremely stubborn. All dogs respond best to positive reinforcement. So make sure to praise her when she does well. She is an intelligent dog who loves to please, and loves a physical challenge. The more exercise she gets the easier she will be to train. Proper socialization is imperative to all dogs and puppies. Make sure to take her to the park and doggy day care to get her around as many people and dogs as possible. Each one is unique and has different dietary requirements. Most dogs in the U. A mix like this one that is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia should really be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible. Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia. A good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet. A raw food diet will be especially good for the Wolf background. Links to other breeds you might be interested in.
They will have their first set of shots, health certification from the vet and deworming. Message me soon to be put on the reserve list. I am looking for anyone that is interested Sorry if the photo is not the best call me xxx-xxx-xxxx any time i am available Buy Now Golden retriever puppies!!! We are a litter of pure bred Goldens - we come vet checked and heathy! Ready for a forever home ! For more information or to come see - please call or txt -xxxxxxxxxx more pictures to come -2 females 4 makes. Will go fast! Avaliable Thanksgiving weekend. View Detail Golden retriever pups!! Family owned Pure bred golden retriever puppies! Rochester ny. Family owned with first shots. Ready for forever home August 10th! View Detail Golden retriever pure bred!! We are a family of golden retrievers , inside pets! This will be our only litter! Reserve one before they are gone! Contact xxxxxxxxxx thank you! Very smart house trained. Joyful and loves to play with kids. Trained to set roleover. Play dead. And more. Rockey is AKC registered puppy. He is a really great dog, but my Bengal Cat will not be nice to him and it is not working out between them. Papers and birth certificate come with him. We are rehoming her because our other dog does not like her and her owner passed away a few months ago View Detail Stunning Golden Retriever puppy Hello, I've decided to place my babies For adoption. They spend most of their with our kid and kitten and are such a company. They were They were six in number but just 3 are left. All they need now is a loving home with company. They have been fully vaccinated and are being wormed every two weeks. All are excellent examples of this wonderful breed. Both mom and dad are registered View Detail Xcellent Goldent Retrieval Puppies my puppies are potty trained and house broken , very friendly with kids and other house hold pets. .Up to date on shots, crate and puppy pad trained. Very healthy, personable and playful. Home raised. Last 2 available from a litter of four. Perfect temperament. About Us We are small family oriented breeder striving to fulfill our passion for goldens. At Jms Goldens, we feel that it is important that you know the breeder of your new pup and what they feel is an ideal breeder. We love our dogs as part of our family. We raise all of our dogs in the house and they live in the house with us as part of the family. We do not have a kennel or outside dogs, we have family members that walk on all fours. We let our dogs be dogs! Our close relationship with our outstanding local veterinarian Dr. Blitz The Village Vet ensures each puppy gets the care that they need at all times. All pups are vet checked, wormed, fed breed appropriate high quality dog food, first set of shots, and pre training started as well as TONS of daily socialization with adults, children, and other animals. Puppies come with a one year health guarantee, Vaccinations, health record, premium puppy kit, pedigree, AKC registration, blanket with moms scent, and training tips. There is nothing more exciting than a puppy. Bonding with a puppy, molding it into your family, can never be done too soon. Call now to reserve yours today! About Us Welcome! Our family lives on 9 acres and consists of myself and husband, Mark. Children Jeff , Aaron and Rachel are all grown up! We share our lives with 4 Goldens, and 5 Havanese. I grew up with Golden Retrievers and started training and showing them in obedience when I was 12 years old. In I decided I wanted to look for a small breed dog that I could have some fun with! After much research and talking to breeders I decided on the Havanese breed. In August our beautiful Capri joined the family and we have not been disappointed! I have been breeding Goldens since and Havanese since .I am a small scale, serious hobby breeder, dedicated to the wonderful Golden Retriever and Havanese breeds. My breeding program stresses temperament, trainability and intelligence. We usually have litters available per year. Our puppies are raised in the house and receive lots of handling and socializing with kids as well as adults. They are exposed to a variety of noises, sights and experiences before going to their new homes. We give our puppy families lifetime support, guidance and insight. We feel that breeding is a total, lifetime committment to these wonderful puppies and their families. Please browse through the site. Items will be added regularly. And if you have any questions, please email or call.
How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. E-mail Share by e-mail German Shepherds make great family dogs — they are loyal, intelligent, and have lots of energy! A good diet is key to giving your pet a long and healthy life, and the wrong diet can lead to a number of health problems. German Shepherds are big dogs with active lifestyles, so making sure they get the right nutrition at different stages throughout their lives is essential. Feeding your German Shepherd Puppy Puppies are growing rapidly and have very specific nutritional requirements. Puppy food tends to be high in calories and protein as they are bundles of energy at this age! Feeding your German Shepherd puppy a good quality balanced diet is essential to ensure that they grow up to be healthy adults. There are some foods designed specifically for large breeds such as German Shepherds, which provide extra support for their growing joints. You should look out for these foods in the pet store and ideally choose one of these large breed diets. You can find further general puppy feeding guidelines and advice via the AKC as well as specific German Shepherd facts and info. How often should I feed my German Shepherd puppy? Puppies need to be fed more frequently than adult dogs to support their rapidly growing bodies. German Shepherd puppies should be fed 4 meals a day until they are 3 months old, then reduce to 3 meals a day until they are 10 months old when their growth rate starts to slow down. Once they reach this age, they need 2 meals a day. When should I start feeding adult food? Puppies must stay on puppy food until they reach adult size. German Shepherds are large dogs and tend to reach adult size later than smaller dogs. They are usually fully matured at months. German Shepherds should stay on puppy food until they are months old, then they should move on to an adult diet. Feeding your adult German Shepherd An adult German Shepherd will weigh around lbs and need at least an hour of exercise every day, so their diet needs to reflect this. It might seem like your dog is eating a lot, but they need to replace the energy they burn off and eat enough of the right nutrients to sustain them! How often should I feed my German Shepherd? Adult dogs should be fed two meals a day. When should I switch from adult to senior food? As dogs get older their nutritional requirements change again. They are less active, and German Shepherds are more prone to joint problems such as osteoarthritis. You should consider switching to a senior diet at around 8 years of age. What type of food should German Shepherds eat? Whichever diet you pick, you should ensure it is suitable for large dogs or working breeds and that it has plenty of protein and calcium, and also includes some type of doggy superfoods, too. Commercially prepared foods are the best way to ensure your dog gets a balanced diet with all the nutrients they need to stay healthy, and they come in wet or dried forms. Some dogs prefer one or the other, whilst some enjoy a variety and mix of both. Dry Food Dried food is cheap, easy to feed and store, and has lots of benefits for your dogs. Dogs fed a dried food diet will drink more water, and you can soak the kibble to add a bit extra if you like. Wet Food Wet foods contain more water than dried, and often resemble meat which some dogs love. The food is usually in chunks with jelly or gravy, and some dogs prefer it to dried. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are large and active dogs with demanding nutritional requirements throughout their lives. They go through a rapid growth stage as puppies, and as adults need the right balance of nutrients to replenish the energy they burn off exercising. They need to eat a diet that has the right balance of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients, and ensure they get the right number of meals a day to maintain good physical and mental health. Puppies should eat meals a day until they are around 10 months old then they should eat 2 meals a day as adults. Do German shepherds require a lot of food? German Shepherds are large dogs so naturally, eat larger portions than smaller breeds. They are active dogs and need lots of protein and energy to keep them healthy. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. Shares German Shepherds are graceful, obedient, and loyal dogs with specific nutritional needs. Following a German Shepherd puppy feeding chart will enable you to track the amount of food your puppy is eating as they grow. There are varieties of foods available in the market and most of them come with guidelines at the back of the packaging showing you how much to feed a German Shepherd puppy. This article will cover different types of diets available and the specific nutritional needs of your German shepherd. It will also help you know what to do to ensure that your GSD gets nutritious and balanced food for every stage of their life. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Chart There are three aspects of this German Shepherd puppy feeding chart, namely the German shepherd feeding amount, feeding frequency, and mealtime lengths. It is important to find out the appropriate feeding amount, frequency, and length for your German shepherd without leaving out one of them. That way, you can accurately find out the best way to feed your dog. Overall, there are four ranges that you need to keep in mind. An active dog may require a bit more than the numbers in this list, and an inactive dog will need a slightly less amount. But this guide can act as a solid benchmark. A puppy will need to eat more because they are growing very quickly. Talk to your vet about how much exactly so you keep them healthy and happy. Make sure your German Shepherd has access to fresh, clean water all day. When you take your dog for a walk make sure to bring along some extra water in a collapsible bowl. If they get tired on the way or it gets very hot, this can save their life. So for example, if your dog is 60lbs they should eat between lbs of food in one day. If you notice your dog is losing weight, add more calories to its meal size. However, there are other considerations on how much to feed a German shepherd puppy per day. You might want to consider avoiding meals right before bedtime. Let them digest their food first before they go to sleep. Understanding German Shepherd Puppy Nutritional Needs All dogs require nutritious, satisfying, and healthy food and every breed have their special diet. For maximum energy and health, there are factors to consider when deciding what to feed your German Shepherd: Size considerations- the AKC breed standard says that a German Shepherd can go to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Females can be around 49 to 71 pounds while Males can be around 66 to 88 pounds. This means that they have a big appetite hence it is good to find quality food for them. They grow pretty fast hence they need specific nutrients for specific stages. Activity level- German shepherds are muscular, active, and agile which contributes to higher caloric needs to be complemented by feeding them a high-quality diet. Health consideration- GSDs are prone to many diseases hence a healthy diet will prevent problems. For example, arthritis that is caused by hip and elbow dysplasia can be mitigated through an excellent diet. Ensure that your GSD diet contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. How long does it take for your dog to be full? Is your dog still hungry after eating his portion? German shepherds normally take anywhere from 10 minutes to 15 minutes to finish the meal, given that you followed the proper feeding guidelines properly. If your dog shows signs of slow eating, we recommend sending them to your vet. If you think your dog is already full before finishing his portion, there is no problem. However, if your dog is still hungry after finishing the meal, consider sending him to your vet. This is because this can be a sign of a serious health issue involving their digestive system. They encourage the puppy to chew hence preventing periodontal diseases or tartar. Kibble is less expensive to buy and can stay fresh for longer. See also German Shepherd Gestation Period And Pregnancy Wet food is also essential for puppies because they allow puppies to feel fuller with less food. If your GSD need to shed a few pounds, wet food is a good way to reduce their caloric intake. Wet food is easier to digest, hence they are good for German shepherds with sensitive stomachs. Wet food is appetizing and keeps the puppy hydrated. You need to understand why your puppy cannot eat because it will help you determine the way to deal with the issue. There is no need to worry if the puppy lost appetite shortly and goes back to normal eating without any sign of illness. If the puppy loses appetite and takes a few days without improvement, take your puppy to the vet to find the problem because your dog might be sick. If the vet finds that the puppy is sick, they may suggest a special diet that will boost their immunity and give them extra nutrients to better their recovery. The puppy may have stopped eating because of behavioral issues; therefore, you may need to feed them same time to get a routine. Treats and human food that is given to the puppy may need to be reduced and also you can try different kinds of food. The German shepherd is a medium dog breed according to the AKC. Therefore, free-feeding is not a good idea. For the German shepherds, feeding schedules work better. If the puppies are free-fed the puppy may eat the leftover at any time even when they are not hungry. Sticking to a feeding routine help the puppy to stay healthy and prevent obesity. When you have a schedule, managing their weight and house training will improve. The puppy usually relieves themselves around 15 minutes after eating or drinking, therefore, when they feed at the same time every day and are taken outside after a while, accidents will be minimized. A raw diet is good for German shepherds. A raw diet help improves vitality and energy. The puppy gets healthy white teeth with an increased lifespan and reduced shedding as well as a stronger immune system. Raw meat is a great source of protein and an optimal diet. It is like keto to humans because it allows the puppy to reach their total capacity and good health. Dogs are naturally carnivorous, hence raw diet aligns with their natural needs. However, you should speak to your vet before putting your puppy on a raw food diet. The majority of commercially available kibble food is balanced and complete, and of high quality for your German shepherd puppy. Human supplements often contain harmful substances to animals and are unregulated or minimally effective. Therefore, never give human supplements to your German shepherd puppy. But they can eat small amounts of cooked chicken or turkey, plain cooked sweet potatoes or carrots, plain yogurt, and small amounts of fruits like apples or bananas without getting sick. Talk to a vet for advice on how to feed your German Shepherd puppy a healthy and balanced diet. These include chocolate, fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chives, avocado, onions, nuts, grapes and raisins, garlic, raw or undercooked meat, and bones. These foods can cause a wide range of health problems, from stomachaches to more serious problems like pancreatitis or kidney failure. Some foods that people eat may have a lot of sodium or sugar, which can also be bad for dogs. How much food to give an older German Shepherd will depend on their needs and how much they move around. But as dogs get older, they tend to slow down and may need less food to stay at a healthy weight. As a general rule, an older German Shepherd needs about 2 to 3 cups of food per day, which should be divided between two meals. A German Shepherd that is getting older should eat high-quality senior dog food that is made for their age and size. Senior dogs might also benefit from getting smaller meals more often. If your German Shepherd puppy seems to always be hungry, you should look at what they eat and how often they eat. Make sure they eat enough for their age, weight, and level of activity. Puppies grow quickly and need more calories than adult dogs, so it is possible that they are not getting enough food. Also, make sure you feed them high-quality puppy food that is right for their age and size. If you are worried about how hungry they are or how much they weigh, you should talk to a vet to rule out any health problems and make a plan for feeding them. The amount of dry food you should feed your German Shepherd will depend on several factors, including their age, weight, and activity level. Puppies: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Adult dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Active dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Senior dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. If the dog is obviously overweight or underweight, adjust accordingly. If you can feel most of the ribs without squeezing your fingers in between them — try 1 cup per day. This is a decent starting point for a growing large breed puppy that needs the extra calories to grow big and strong. If you can feel most of the ribs AND see its waist — try 3 cups per day. This is perfect for an adult German Shepherd which needs extra calories due to being very active. With this amount, it will be able to maintain its weight, but not gain any extra fat. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 3. This is a good amount for a very active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain a healthy weight. This should be sufficient for an adult German Shepherd which is quite active. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 5 cups per day. This is a good amount for an extremely active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain lean muscle mass. For example, when my dog was a puppy, he would feel all ribs and see his waist when eating 2 cups of food per day. However, as he got older and larger, I had to increase the amount — even though I could still feel most of the ribs! He maintained around .Although there are lots of opinions on how much food your shepherds needs, these guidelines work for me and my German Shepherds. Everyone is different though, so you will have to adjust accordingly if necessary — this guide should help you until you find the ideal amount. If your dog is a very active one it may need more food depending on its activity level. Always be sure to give plenty of water since dry kibble can dehydrate the animal over time. However, this amount will vary depending on the size, age, and activity level of your dog. Puppies and young dogs, for example, generally need more water than adult German Shepherds. And working dogs or those who exercise frequently may require even more. This is because they can easily hydrate themselves if given free access to water. However, you still need to remember some things. For example, take note that your dog will need to drink 6 ounces of water per day for every 3. Depending on the temperature and activeness, this amount can increase. Lastly, make sure you take extra care in providing water access to your German shepherd. The most preferable way is to fill a bowl with a moderate amount of water, not too much. The feeding amount, frequency, length, and water requirements can always be changed. If you have no time to visit your vet, the following topic may help you. How Much Should A 1-year-old German Shepherd Eat A 1-year-old German Shepherd should eat about two and a half to three cups of food each day, broken up into two or three meals. Pointers for Feeding German Shepherds Improper feeding practices can lead to serious health problems for German shepherds. An owner is responsible for taking into consideration the age and weight of a German shepherd before feeding them. When feeding a german shepherd puppy that is four to six months old, you must give them two meals a day that comprises around eight ounces and five ounces. When feeding a German shepherd puppy that is between seven and twelve months old, the meal amounts should be increased to ten ounces for each meal. This amount should be split into three smaller meals. This is regardless of whether they are active or not. Yep, German shepherds can gain weight regardless of whether they exercise or not. If you think your dog is gaining too much weight, you can split their daily calories into four or five smaller meals. Some people prefer using dry dog food, while others would choose canned dog food. Whatever you choose for your German shepherd is usually okay, but canned food tends to contain more moisture than dry food which may lead to bladder stones in certain dogs. However, when it comes to the amount of dog food you feed your German shepherd, canned food leads to more obesity than dry food. If your German shepherds are over five years old, you must give them an extra meal. This additional meal should comprise around four ounces of food so they can easily digest it during their older age. When feeding a German shepherd puppy, you must know how to correctly measure their food amount. Be accurate when following the proper measurements; otherwise, it could lead to your dog gaining too much weight. Use measuring cups that are specifically made for dry food. If you use any other type of measuring device, it might lead to your dog eating too much or too little food. You must not feed your German shepherd until they are full, but allow them to eat until they are slightly satiated. Do not serve unlimited food; give them about two to three cups of food per day. If you are unsure whether or not your German shepherd is obese, check its waistline. If they have a thick waist and their stomach looks like a sphere, then that is a clear sign that your German shepherd is obese. Never let them finish their meal if they are still hungry; otherwise, you will encourage them to gorge on their food. Your German shepherd must always have access to fresh clean water, so you should ensure they can drink it whenever necessary. Feeding Guidelines by Age Before proceeding with the following points, remember that age is not the only determining factor in a German shepherd feeding chart. Make sure to consider all the content in this blog post as well. It is recommended that you slowly let them adapt first. This can be their regular food from now on. This includes fruits, bones, and more. You should also avoid giving them your leftovers. However, they will need time to adapt. You should also consider feeding your German shepherd foods that can be gnawed and chewed. This is so they can develop their jaws, teeth, and gums. This will result in less feeding amount and frequency. Feeding Guidelines by Weight German shepherds can be of different weight ranges. An average weighted German shepherd 35 kilograms will then need calories per day. This only applies to German shepherds that do not exercise or are inactive. Active German Shepherds: In the case of active German shepherds that exercise regularly, every 1 kilogram equals 55 calories per day. So an average weighted German shepherd will require calories per day to be able to function properly. Take note, however, that this calculation may be affected if the German shepherd has a health disorder concerned with metabolism or digestion. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Guidelines Our last topic involves the difference between a puppy and an adult. The following are some of the facts that recent studies have proven: Puppies have higher energy levels than adults. This means they need to eat more than adult German shepherds. German shepherds will need higher protein and fat content at an early age. The amount of fat and protein will decrease as they grow older. Puppies cannot tolerate too many nutrients. Ingesting extra minerals and vitamins may lead to serious health disorders. Meanwhile, adults are only risking being overweight when taking in more than intended. German Shepherds usually have a good appetite and can eat a lot, especially when they are young and growing. But their food intake should be balanced and right for their age, weight, and level of activity to keep them from getting too much food and getting fat. As they age, they should usually eat less quickly. Most of the time, bones that have been cooked and ground up completely may be safe to eat. Instead, give them dog-made chew toys or treats. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Since German Shepherds consume meat, it follows that they must consume a significant amount of animal protein in order to get all of the necessary nutrients. Although while it is feasible to offer a dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, owners of German Shepherds should avoid doing so since it increases the likelihood that their dogs will not get all of the nutrients that they need. After talking about the feeding amount, frequency, and lengths of a German shepherd, you can now easily plan how much, how many times, and how long you feed your dog. You even learned how to hydrate your German shepherd the proper way. Lastly, we talked about the difference between a puppy and an adult in terms of feeding. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Since puppies have a lot of growing to do, they require plenty of calories. You can reduce the amount of food per pound of body weight until they reach standard adult measurements. The specific amount of food to feed a German Shepherd can vary because different dogs are sized differently and have various needs and levels of athleticism. To learn more about specific foods and ingredients, check out this article on the best diet for German Shepherds. Three to four meals of puppy food a day is ideal for a month-old German Shepherd, as the food will be easily digestible and keep the energy high throughout the day. Feeding a puppy 1—2 large meals might make them feel sick, or they may be unable to finish it all at once. When it comes to how much food to give a 1—4 month-old German Shepherd, the recommended amount is approximately one cup g or a little more, depending on activity levels per meal. Be sure to spread meals evenly throughout the day, and avoid feeding your puppy before bedtime. The West Greenwich Animal Hospital recommends not feeding a dog three hours before bedtime because they may need to go out for a toilet break at night. Since their stomachs and bodies are getting bigger, they can generally handle fewer large meals than more small ones. So, you can reduce the number of puppy food meals to 2 or 3. Since the number of meals is reduced, increase the amount of food per serving to approximately 1. The meals should be spread evenly throughout the day to ensure your German Shepherd has consistent energy levels. My German Shepherd Willow at 4 months old 10 to 12 Months At 10—12 months, a German Shepherd begins to mature as its body continues growing. Split approximately 4—5 cups —1, g of food between two meals. However, this is just a recommendation — as mentioned previously, your dog may require more or less than this depending on their activity levels. Keeping the amount of food at cups , g per day may be sufficient, or it may be best to start feeding your dog more or less than this. For example, many active or working German Shepherds may benefit from 6 cups 1. Again, the specific amount is circumstantial. However, some dog owners make the switch earlier. Honestly, this is the issue with every new pet parent. Below is a German Shepherd feeding chart to help you learn more about giving your pooch the right amount of food at the right time. Remember, the below are simply recommendations, so specific amounts can vary by dog and activity level. Age Amount of food per day Amount of servings per day months 3—4 cups — g spread across multiple servings 3—4 3—4. Always check the packaging of the food you buy for a more detailed analysis. There are endless dog food options, so making the right choice can be challenging and stressful. The main protein source is chicken, and it promotes immune system health and digestive performance. Suitable for puppies up to 15 months, this dog food is the perfect solution for young German Shepherds with lots of growing to do! One of the main benefits of this food is that it comes in different sizes, including a pound 6. This dog food contains all the nutrients a German Shepherd puppy needs to grow and thrive. Blue Buffalo dog food has real chicken, fruits, and vegetables, so your pooch will surely enjoy the delicious taste! It comes in two flavors — a chicken meal with oats and a lamb meal with brown rice. Either contains enough high-quality protein to ensure your pup can grow as healthily as possible. Medium-sized dog breeds can continue eating puppy food until 18 months. Like with puppy food, there are many adult German Shepherd dog food options, so choosing the right one can be challenging. Check out some of my below recommendations to make your search a little easier. Best Breed Dr. Best Breed Dog Food aids digestion as it contains a blend of soluble and insoluble fiber. According to a study, musculoskeletal disorders and the inability to stand are the two most common causes of death in German Shepherds. Since puppies need specific nutrients to grow, their food differs greatly from adult dog food. Puppies especially need protein because it aids with the growth and development of cells. Without adequate protein in the diet , puppies are more susceptible to serious health issues, including: Weight and muscle loss General weakness Chest and abdomen issues German Shepherds can continue eating puppy food for the first year of life and beyond. Usually, 16—18 months is a good time for a dog to start eating adult food. The most important thing to remember is that adult food is never the right choice for a German Shepherd puppy that still has much growing to do. However, there are many other factors to consider when it comes to feeding a German Shepherd, like their general weight and activity levels. Weight and Size The weight of your German Shepherd will determine how much to feed it. The general rule of thumb is that the heavier your dog is, the more food it needs to stay fueled. The average adult German Shepherd is around .Pay attention to the general height and size of your German Shepherd to determine exactly how much food to feed them. For example, an underweight German Shepherd will need extra food to get back to a healthy weight, whereas an overweight one will need less food. As you can imagine, a highly energetic dog will need more food than a German Shepherd that lies around all day. If your German Shepherd is still relatively young, i. Health Health issues can affect the way a dog eats. For example, a dog with stomach issues might avoid food altogether. Other health conditions that affect how much a dog can eat include: Pancreatitis Infections Cancer Consider whether your dog is experiencing health issues when feeding them. For instance, if your dog is shedding too much, you need to change a diet that minimizes shedding. Age The age of a German Shepherd helps determine how much food should be eaten and how often. For example as mentioned earlier , younger dogs must eat smaller meals spread evenly throughout the day, while older dogs can have 2 larger meals. A vet can weigh your German Shepherd, ask questions, and listen to the heartbeat to determine a healthy diet plan. As Willow is now a senior dog, I like to take her for vet checkups every 6 months. In many cases, giving puppies homemade food over long periods can cause health issues down the line. A study by the National Library of Medicine concluded that a homemade diet given by the owner caused a puppy to experience various health issues, including vitamin D deficiency and NSH nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism. You can give a small treat here and there, but human food should never make up the entire diet of a puppy. Below are some tasty examples! Eggs Not only are eggs beneficial for humans, but they can also be good for dogs if given in moderation. German Shepherds puppies and adults will receive plenty of nutrients from eggs, including protein and fats. The best and easiest way to give a German Shepherd an egg is to hard boil it. Avoid feeding a German Shepherd or any dog fried eggs too often due to the excessive oil. Hard-boiled eggs are usually the easiest for dogs to eat, but you can also try poached or scrambled eggs. Examples of dog-friendly fruits include: Bananas. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to German Shepherd breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. Before the four month mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps: Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed your German Shepherd puppy as they get older. With this rapid growth can come some risks. German Shepherds are susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia, that can start in puppyhood. They will be very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen between 12 and 24 months of age. This is because, being a larger breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. Remember that the more active the pup, the more food they require. While following feeding guidelines is important to avoid over and underfeeding, you can adjust the amounts of food you provide to your dog based on level of activity. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask your vet for guidance. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your German Shepherd puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. For puppies, this amount will often be two of three times higher, as they are more active and growing quickly. German Shepherd puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, German Shepherd puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. However, they can also be at risk of gastric dilatation or volvulus, or GDV. Certain dog breeds can be more susceptible to GDV; particularly deep chested breeds including German Shepherds. GDV can occur when a dog bloats a few hours after eating a meal. Though the exact causes of GDV are not known, grains and cereals are suspected to be contributors. The amount of food you give your German Shepherd is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult German Shepherds, between 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, and 1, per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your German Shepherd based on how calorically dense their food is. German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs who are at risk of GDV may benefit from exercise after eating, to aid with digestion. You should also try to give your German Shepherd a high quality food that is specially designed for larger or working breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. German Shepherds can be particularly susceptible to skin disease or allergies, including canine atopic dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, forms of contact dermatitis, or scabies. If your dog develops a skin issue, it is often a sign that they may be suffering from a form of food sensitivity. If you are unsure about what you should feed your German Shepherd, you should always consult your vet as they will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any allergies or chronic health issues: creating a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Part of figuring out what you should feed your German Shepherd includes deciding between wet, dry, or a raw food diet. Wet food for German Shepherds is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. A raw diet can be a good option for your German Shepherd as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your German Shepherd, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. The amount of food you feed your dog should be determined by their activity levels, age, weight, breed, and size. Any meals prepared for your dog need to contain the right balance of nutrients. You should also be extra careful not to introduce your dog to foods that are harmful to their health. While we might enjoy the taste of nuts, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and onions, these can be toxic for dogs and can cause serious illness and even death. German Shepherds in particular need plenty of exercise as they are a large working breed with a lot of energy. No matter how old your German Shepherd is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.
We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. Taking fun trips to the beach or the lake with your dog is even better when your lab puppy can swim. Lab puppies can start learning how to swim as soon as they are old enough or at around 12 weeks of age. Lab puppies need to learn how to swim, so they need to start swimming early on. While they do have water instincts, they need to develop before they can build the strength to swim well. This guide will explain what age they can start swimming at and how to train them properly. We have helped many Labrador owners train their dogs to improve their obedience and water capabilities. They are a simple and loving breed with lots of intelligence, so that they can do just about anything. Lab puppies typically need time to develop these skills before they can be safely allowed into the water without supervision. Most labs should wait until about months old before going into the water for the first. It takes time for lab puppies to learn basic skills and gain the strength for swimming. It requires them to grow a bit more to a bigger size too. In general, Labradors love to swim and are renowned for being excellent swimmers. You can introduce your puppy to the water with careful supervision after weeks. The more time you spend with your lab puppy, the faster it will learn how to swim. It is also an excellent way for your lab puppy to trust you more. This is especially true if you bring them into the water younger. For example, your lab puppy will pick up swimming faster at six months compared to only weeks. Follow these steps to train your puppy to swim effectively. Teach Your Lab Puppy Basic Obedience Training your lab puppy to swim is a great idea, but it is not the most important thing you can do with your new dog. You should first teach your dog how to behave correctly with obedience training. This will help them understand what they are supposed to do in certain situations and provide a foundation for learning how to swim later on. After your puppy learns to obey basic commands, training it how to swim will be faster and easier. This will help them to be more comfortable in the water and build a positive association with it. When introducing your dog to the water, you should start by taking them on a short walk near the water's edge. If they are hesitant, try placing their paws in the water for a few seconds before moving on. Once they are comfortable, you can slowly increase their time in the water and eventually take them swimming with you. Gradually increase the depth of the water until they are swimming on their own, and then slowly lower it back down. Training your lab puppy on how to swim can be done through patience and perseverance. You should start slowly, giving your pup treats when paddling for a few seconds before gradually increasing the time they spend in the pool of water. Remain Patient When you first bring a new puppy home, it may not be comfortable in the water. They will likely want to avoid water as much as possible and wag their tail when they see you coming towards the pool or lake. It can take weeks to get used to swimming and even longer for them to stay afloat in deep water. Be patient as they grow and get more comfortable in the water. They have the instinct to use the doggy paddle but need to get comfy. Are Labradors Natural Swimmers? Dogs are not born with the ability to swim. They can only learn how to swim through extensive training. Labradors are no exception. However, Labradors were originally bred as working dogs for hunting and pulling carts, so it is not surprising that they are good at swimming. They have many traits that back up this reputation as well. Once dogs get comfortable in the water, they will know to use their strength to do the doggy paddle to stay afloat. This is something they understand naturally through instincts. Labradors also have a double coat of fur , which is better for the water because it keeps them warmer. This, along with a wide otter tail and webbed paws, makes them great at swimming. Labradors have thicker fur so they will remain warmer than other dogs in cold water. However, this does not mean they can handle freezing temperatures for a long time. We recommend exposing your dog to the water in the summer when it is not too cold. This will allow them to enjoy swimming more too. Lab puppies are susceptible to hypothermia and should never be left in freezing cold water. They might not show any signs of distress, but they can die if they stay in the cold for too long. Practice the same safety tips for your puppy as you would for yourself or a child. Extremely cold waters should be avoided. Here are some tips on taking care of your lab puppy and keeping them safe in the water. Always Supervise Your Puppy Lab puppies should never be left alone in a pool or near any body of water for any time, as they can easily drown if they accidentally fall into the pool. This is especially true for younger puppies that are new to swimming. You can change this approach as your lab gets older and more experienced. But for now, never let them into the water without other people around as a safety precaution. This is especially true if they are in the ocean or a lake, where the water could be more dangerous. Use A Canine Life Jacket Puppies need to be taught how to swim early so they can grow up with the ability to save themselves in the water. A canine life jacket is a great way to keep your lab puppy safe while learning how to swim. It will help them get used to the water experience without causing any harm. The best part about using a canine life jacket is that it will motivate your lab puppy to learn how to swim faster and more efficiently. How to Train Your Labrador Retriever Puppy to Love Water September 5, Labrador retrievers are great hunting and retrieving dogs that make exceptional companions and family pets. If you and your family like to hunt, fish, or play outdoor sports, a Labrador retriever may be the perfect dog for you. When outdoors, you and your Lab can often be around water. It is best not to introduce a dog to water all at once. Because Labs sometimes are hesitant around water, the following steps will help introduce and train a new Lab puppy to be comfortable and enthusiastic around water. Teach Your Lab Basic Commands As soon as you get a Labrador retriever puppy, teach him or her basic commands such as come, sit, stay, down, and leave it. These commands will teach your puppy that you are the pack leader. Keep your Lab puppy with you as much as possible so you can train throughout the day and always have dog treats with you for rewards. At six months of age, you can enroll your Lab in dog obedience school to learn more commands, get exercise and mental stimulation, and become acquainted with other dogs. This training is essential to make sure your dog will be safe when you bring him or her to water for the first time. Introduce Your Puppy to Water While your Labrador retriever puppy is young, you can play in your yard with a garden hose and a small child's pool. Splash water on your puppy's face and feet to acquaint your dog with the sensation of being wet. You can fill a small child's pool with enough water that it is chest deep for your Lab puppy. Toss a small ball or toy into the pool so that your puppy can jump in and fetch it. Walk on a Beach If you live near a lake or ocean, take your Labrador retriever for a walk on the shore or beach. Walk in the shallow water with your Lab so that both of you can get your feet wet. Attach a leash to your Lab's collar to keep him or her close to you as you walk in the water. You can also toss a waterproof toy into the shallow water to entice your Lab to chase and fetch it. The best toy for this activity is soft and in the shape of a small bird or fish so your Lab can easily grab it and hold it in their mouth. Each time you throw your Lab's toy into the shallow water, throw it a little farther away to entice your Lab to get familiar with deeper water. Swim in the Water You can teach your Labrador retriever to swim by getting in a pool, lake, river, or ocean and swimming with them. Dogs will naturally paddle when they are in water deep enough to swim in, but need to learn how to maneuver in the water. To teach your Lab puppy to maneuver and be confident in the water, hold your hand under their chest or belly to keep them afloat as they dog paddle. Speak to your Lab with a gentle voice to reassure and encourage them in the water. Dive In the Water Once you have taught your Labrador retriever to swim, you can teach him or her to dive into the water from a pier or diving board. The best way to do this is to hold your Lab in your arms, dive into the water, and release your Lab to swim out of the water. Once your Lab is familiar with diving, you can dive into the water and then call them to follow you. Socialize with Other Dogs One advantage of enrolling your Labrador retriever in dog obedience school is that they can meet and socialize with other dogs. Your Lab can then learn from watching and following their dog friends in many activities, including swimming. When your Labrador retriever plays outdoors in the water, it is best to use a waterproof polyurethane and nylon webbing collar as it is durable and dries almost instantly. To find items such as a collar, leash, toys, and treats for your Labrador retriever, contact Over Under Clothing online. We have a lifetime guarantee on all of our products and donate a portion of sales to help at-risk dogs. Tweet on Twitter Can Labradors swim naturally or do they need to be taught? But, if your Lab has positive experiences with water from a young age, they will likely love splashing about and swimming. Traits like their double coat, healthy facial conformation, and webbed paws help to make them great swimmers. Can Labradors Swim? If Labs are introduced to swimming gradually as a puppy , they are likely to be happy and confident swimmers. Labs swim, like most other dogs, using the doggy paddle technique! But some Labs might also enjoy diving into the water, and they may love to retrieve things from water. This can be very stressful for them, and can even lead to them avoiding water in the future. The best way to encourage your Lab to swim is to introduce the habit gradually and safely. And the truth is, they were! Originally, Labrador ancestors were bred to work alongside fishermen on the island of Newfoundland, Canada. From these dogs, and other ancestors after British breeders first tried to standardise the Labrador breed, Labs inherited some traits that make them great swimmers. They have a thick, double coat that is water resistant and protects them against the chill of swimming in natural rivers and ponds. They also have a wide otter tail to help them swim, and webbed paws! Do Labradors Like to Swim? The best way to help guarantee that your pup enjoys swimming is to introduce them to water very gradually. Make sure that all of their experiences with water are positive, and that they never feel unsafe in the water. Are All Labs Good Swimmers? Most Labs will be physically able to swim when given the opportunity, or if forced to do so. But, there are a few that may panic and struggle. So, as we said before, you should introduce your Lab to the water very gradually. Some pups will be more enthusiastic than others. All Labradors have traits that can help them be strong swimmers. But, the prominence of these traits varies depending on the type of Labrador you have. When Can Labradors Start Swimming? Firstly, you must wait until your Labrador puppy has all of its necessary vaccinations. This will keep them safe from health problems like parvovirus. This might take longer than you would first think, involving chasing a stick over a small puddle at first. Gradually increase the amount of water your Lab is happy to wade through until it is slightly deeper or slightly wider. When your Labrador is happy, you can increase it again. Never make your Lab jump straight in at the deep end — literally! It may take a few months before your Labrador is happily swimming in deeper water. Can Labradors Swim in Cold Water? There are still risks letting your Lab swim in very cold water. Letting your Lab swim in cold water for extended periods can cause hypothermia, which can be fatal. Waiting for those warmer summer months may be a better idea. Helping your Labrador Swim Safely As well as risks from cold water, there are a few other considerations to make before letting your Labrador swim. If your Lab is swimming in deep water, remember there could be strong undercurrents that could make them lose control. Plus, because lots of Labradors love to swim, they may not stop until they are completely exhausted. Not only does this leave them vulnerable in deep water, but it can cause problems like limber tail , which is very painful for them. This problem usually goes away after a few days, but is still stressful for your pup. Watch out for jellyfish, and worse! Do you have a Labrador at home that loves swimming? We would love to hear about them in the comments! References and Resources. Labradors have a great affinity with water and activities like swimming. So at what age can Lab puppies swim? Can Labradors swim naturally? Do Labs like to swim? We have covered all these questions for you in the below article. Have a look. At what age can Lab puppies swim? Some people say 8 weeks, some say 12 weeks and some say 3 months. There are a lot of conflicting opinions regarding the age when your Labrador puppies can start swimming. Anyone would think like this, as these Labradors are historically linked with the fisherman and icy waters of Newfoundland. Many people even think that Lab puppies can swim at any young age and they keep asking me whether their puppies can swim when they are one month old. There are various factors to consider before determining your Labrador puppy swimming age. Where is your puppy going to swim? Is it near a public pool, or a lake or a pond or a beach? For example, it is probably safe to allow a 3-month-old puppy into a small pond, but it is not safe to allow him in the beach waters. Look at the points below and you will understand the age and time to introduce your Lab puppy to swimming waters. Habituate swimming to your Labrador puppy slowly. Initially, it is always better to make the puppy acquainted with water either in your bathtub or your personal pool. You can start this when your puppy reaches 3 months old. You have to remember that your Lab needs certain physical strength in its legs in order to swim effortlessly. Allow your little Lab to grow until 3 months and then you can introduce him to swimming. Some people tell me that their Labrador puppies started swimming when they are just 8 weeks old. Do not take him into public pools until he is fully vaccinated as there is a risk of deadly diseases for your little puppy. Take him into public water bodies only after he finishes his set of vaccinations. Some puppies take time during the exploration of water, hence remember not to force him in any way to get into the water. Forcing your Lab puppy to get into water does not work and your puppy may develop fear and aversion towards the water. One of my dog Simba was very scared of water and he never preferred to play with water during its lifetime. You can take your puppy to larger water bodies like beach waters when it reaches 6 months of age. My little puppy went into the beach waters when he is around 6 months of age and he enjoyed its day fully. Taking him at a younger age might scare him of the waves and it is even difficult for the little puppy to balance himself in the beach water. Labrador swimming- Complete guide Labradors are perfect swimmers which used to retrieve fish and nets from the cold icy waters of the North Atlantic. Have you seen its thick, dense water-resistant coat? It makes them waterproof. Observe their webbed feet, which help them to swim. Let us consider some basic questions to understand Labrador swimming. Labradors have the innate ability to swim, but that does not mean they can swim like fish. This is especially true with respect to puppies. Their body structure and genetics assist them in paddling in the water. Labradors love swimming and are good swimmers but it does not mean they can swim for any duration of time and anywhere. Hence it is important to remember that they are dogs and they have their limitations. So, do Labs like to swim? But not every Labrador likes to swim. As i told you my dog Simba hates water and he is really scared of it. The reason why some Labs are scared of water is that they are introduced to water in an inappropriate way. Their first experience of water might have been scary and disturbing for them. How to teach a Lab to swim? Even though some Lab puppies begin to swim on their own, some Labs who cannot do it on their own, some Labs which are scared of water, and Labs which are small puppies need to be taught to swim. Firstly introduce your Lab puppy to water splashes and small house pools at a young age so that he gets acquainted with water. If your little pup is scared, do not force him. Give him sufficient time to get adjusted to the water. You can buy a mini Labrador swimming pool in your house to habituate swimming for your little one. You can Buy it here. Whenever you take him to a nearby pool for swimming, keep your palm under his belly or his chest and allow him to move its legs to swim. You can help him like this until he becomes a confident swimmer. Give your puppy a life vest if he is not very comfortable with water. It keeps your puppy buoyant and makes him less tense. Go into the water along with your pup. As your puppy feels safer with you, it feels even more comfortable while swimming. Go for a casual walk along the beach with a leash around your puppy and let him feel the waves. Use positive reinforcement techniques such as giving encouragement, treats and rewards while playing in the water. You can play fetch games in the water which your puppy may like. Labrador swimming safety precautions Looking at your Lab puppy swimming can be delightful and exciting, but there are some precautions you need to take while taking out your puppy for swimming. Never leave your dog alone. Even though Labs can swim sometimes it might be difficult to resist against currents in oceans and rivers. Always keep an eye on your dog as a precautionary measure. It is safe to buy him a good safety vest. We cannot expect when your dog might encounter a risky situation that makes him difficult to swim. Do not overexert your dog while swimming. Sometimes he can manage to go out far from the shore but could not come back as he gets tired. Be careful especially when your Labrador is in its puppy stage as puppies get tired more easily. Always get into a swimming pool that has a sloped ground or steps so that your dog can come out easily. Swimming pools without steps and sloped ground can be risky for dogs. Be careful while swimming in unknown waters. Unknown waters have a risk of dangerous snake bites. Attention: Lack of proper training in the initial stages can build up various anxiety issues and fears in your dog. This can make your dog afraid of any new activity including swimming too. When you want your Lab to enjoy swimming, it could be a phobia for him. Take proper steps of training your dog well to avoid these issues. By Tom Massey Jul 24, The doggy paddle: a staple swimming move for beginners in the water. But where does this name come from? Even Lab puppies will frolic in the water once they get used to it. The truth is that Labs are natural swimmers and have a strong inclination to hop into pretty much any body of water — but why do Labs like to swim? Understanding why Labrador Retrievers love the water can help you better understand your furry friend and his needs. This article will cover why Labs enjoy water sports and examine how you can help water-shy Labradors. Are Labs Naturally Good Swimmers? When raising dogs, many people assume they have an instinct for swimming. Things like webbed toes, long legs, and a water-repellent coat — all traits that Labs possess — make dogs excellent natural swimmers. But where do these characteristics come from? Labs are naturally good swimmers because of what they were bred to do. Toss a stick into the water, and your Lab pup will jump right in to fetch it. When you breed an animal with a clear purpose, specific desirable traits are drawn out over generations. Fishermen on the coast relied on these dogs to help them fish. They trained the dogs to retrieve fishing gear and fish that evaded the nets or traps. They had all the telltale signs of a natural swimmer that could handle cold water — short, oily coats that repelled water, long legs, webbed feet, and oar-like tails. These dogs were also known for their boundless energy, loyalty to their owners, and agility — traits that can certainly be useful in other canine working applications, such as hunting and hauling. In the s, a handful of English noblemen started breeding the now-extinct breed of St. Their goal was to develop the ideal hunting companion — a dog that could retrieve game instead of fish but could still swim to fetch waterfowl, pheasant, and other small game that the hunters would shoot down over ponds, lakes, and other bodies of water. Once early breeders started mating the St. These early Labs were excellent fishing and hunting pals with their unique ability to swim and retrieve fallen game. This breed has been using their skills to please their owners by retrieving game for centuries. Swimming is second nature for these dogs! Well, for most of them, at least. Do All Labradors Love Water? Labrador Retrievers were bred to swim, but not all Labradors enjoy swimming. While American and English Labs both enjoy warm or cold water and will retrieve fish, game, or sticks for their owners, not every dog is alike — even with a natural swimming ability in their genetics. If a Lab dislikes bath time or previously felt out of control in deep water at some point, they may steer clear of bodies of water because of a bad experience in the past. And sometimes, it comes down to personality. They might simply prefer the shore on family trips to the lake or the beach. So what can you do if your Lab dislikes water? For example, to help with bath time fears, spend some time getting him used to sitting in the tub with the door closed without turning on the water. Start small, and eventually, your pup will acclimate to water exposure. Once adjusted to bathtime, let your Lab observe you and other dogs enjoying a swim. So, how long should you let your dog swim? As long as your Lab is accustomed to swimming, minute blocks are okay. Then, as his stamina increases, you can let him swim for longer. Is Swimming Good for Labradors? When it comes to the free-spirited, energetic nature of Labrador Retrievers, swimming is an excellent activity to support their physical and mental health. They hit the pool. Being in water enables your limbs to move easily through their normal range of motion, so injured runners can exercise while supporting their joints. The same is true for dogs. When Labs swim, it decreases the pressure on their joints, making it an excellent alternative to walking on sidewalks. Additionally, as many dogs age, they develop joint problems. Daily swimming exercises can help keep your Labrador healthy and relieve joint pain. Instead of dealing with stressful feelings and passing them on to your pup, you can relieve stress by swimming together. Reason 3: Alleviates Pain If you have access to warm water, such as those beautiful Floridian beaches or a heated pool, swimming can also decrease pain. Swimming in warm water temperature is also known to help dogs recover faster after intense exercise. Larger dogs, like Labs, can be overweight but appear to be the right size. The ideal weight for adult female Labrador Retrievers is a little over 70 pounds, and males should weigh somewhere between the high 70s to low 80s. Whether your vet suggests helping your dog lose a few pounds, swimming will help your Lab reach and maintain a healthy weight. However, swimming is an excellent activity to help your dog stay in shape. Swimming for about one mile is the equivalent of running for four miles! Everybody needs time to let loose and have fun, and Labs are no different. Whether you swim with your Lab or toss a ball in the water for a round of fetch, playtime strengthens the human-dog bond, which encourages your dog to be loyal to his devoted best friend you! Playtime with owners will also help prevent destructive behaviors because your dog will be more relaxed and confident in his place in the pack. But there are a few things Labrador owners should know before putting a puppy into the water. While young, Labrador puppies might not have the physical strength to tread water. During their first swimming session, they should start in shallow water. You can fill up a kiddie pool in your backyard and run around on the shore so your puppy can get his paws wet. Another factor is vaccinations. So keep it positive, relaxing, and fun with low-key bathtime experiences, backyard shenanigans, and puppy-appropriate adventures in the shallows. Conclusion Do Labradors tend to like water? Early breeders wanted strong swimmers who could retrieve things from lakes, rivers, and the sea; thus, the Labrador breed was born. But not all Labradors know how to swim or run head over heels for the water. Eventually, most Labs will take to the water — after all, they are descended from true water dogs! The White Lab puppies at Snowy Pines grow up on acres of land in the Ozarks , where they play in the water, have fun with other puppies, and explore. Take a look at our available puppies and apply to adopt your new pure-bred White English Retriever swimming buddy! Share on. Then I threw a stick out to see what he would do. To my absolute joy, he walked out and got the stick. What is the best age to introduce a Labrador to water? At this early stage of the game, I do not think that every puppy has to be in the water. I think that some people may worry so much about getting a good water dog that they rush this step. While you may or may not get them swimming at this point, you should give them the opportunity to walk through puddles and shallow water. Get your Lab out in the rain and have fun with her. She will learn from you that rain is not something that will keep you inside. The last thing you want to do is get a water-dog scared of the water. The water needs to be fun-time and something they look forward to when they see the lake or river. It can be something your Retriever gets excited about if you will introduce them to it appropriately. Where should you introduce your Lab to water? I believe that one of the greatest places near my home to introduce Retrievers to water is Bear Lake on the Utah-Idaho border. Here are some of the characteristics of this lake that make it ideal: Open beach Firm base Very gradual drop off This setup allows you and your puppy to run and play without worry about depth or sharp rocks. How you should introduce your Retrievers to water. Take your puppy somewhere like that on a nice, warm day. Walk out into the water and see if your puppy follows you. If not, try and coax him into the water by calling his name and splashing a little bit. You run the risk of making the pup afraid of the water. Labradors are bred to love the water. Let the pup come into the water at his own speed. Your encouragement will help. Take your time and eventually, your puppy will be having a blast in the water. If things are moving slower than you want them to, it may help to introduce another, more experienced dog. Bring a dog that is crazy about the water in a good way. See if your puppy forgets about the water as it plays with the other dog. Start them out on the beach and slowly lead the experienced dog into the water. Your puppy will probably follow and start swimming without realizing what is going on. Before you know it, your pup will go from racing along the beach to the shallow water, and then move onto swimming with little reservation. All of this, and you have never had to put your puppy in a situation that will cause him to be nervous about water in the future. An important part of getting your pup accustomed to water, like everything else in raising a dog, is frequent repetition. Let him experience it over and over again. Another Option… Sometimes it can be difficult to get to a beach or pond. In those situations, you may want to purchase one of the cheap, plastic swimming pools like this one. I know that you can purchase cheaper versions at Walmart, but I like the option of folding this one up and putting it on a shelf. You can control the amount of water in the pool. While your dog is wading is shallow water, tease him with his favorite toys. Next time add a little more water and introduce the toys again. When your puppy is confident with water up to his belly, add just enough water so that your puppy can paddle around a little.
Royal George Goldendoodles is a very small home breeding operation that produces only a few puppies every year from their two breeding dogs. The puppies are F1BB medium Goldendoodles. That gives you the opportunity to meet the breeder in person, check out the conditions in which the breeding dogs and puppies are kept, and get an overall vibe for the setup. The kennels should be clean, bright, and airy with fresh water available to the occupants at all times. The dogs should have access to some outside space, and they should have comfortable beds and a few toys, too. If the breeder declines your request to visit them without a valid reason, for example, due to Covid restrictions, you should be suspicious and make further inquiries about the operation. Any breeder who suggests meeting at a service station or some other random place to pick up your puppy should be avoided. These are classic red flags for puppy mills. Both dogs should be friendly, well-socialized, in good condition, and well-groomed. Personal Experience When I went to see my puppy, he was in a pen with his Mom and siblings. That was great to see, as it gave me a clear indication that her babies would grow up with similar temperaments. Dad was eager to meet his visitors and appeared relaxed and happy in his home. So far, my puppy is proving to be a happy little guy with an outgoing, friendly nature. Everyone we meet stops to pet the pup, and he just takes everything in his stride. Medical History All puppies take some of their genes from each parent. So, you want to be sure that the pups are healthy and free from genetic abnormalities that could cause health problems in the future. A responsible breeder will have their breeding stock health-screened for congenital health problems that could be passed down to their progeny. GANA recommends that Goldendoodles are tested as follows:. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Carmel Indiana and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted!
Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.Top 30 Smartest Dog Breeds In The World If you're a dog lover, you've probably heard the age-old debate: which dog breeds are the smartest? While all dogs have their own unique intelligence and personality, some breeds have proven to be consistently brilliant over time. In this guide, we'll explore the top 30 smartest dog breeds ranked, from problem-solving whizzes to trainable and intuitive pups. We've done our research to provide you with an updated and informative.These pooches are joyful, lively, eager to please dogs. They are adventurous, kind, family-oriented pups who love hiking, swimming, canine games, sports and any, and all, family activities. These puppies are merry and bouncy little marshmallows. They are cuddly and sweet pups who love running around, playing, making friends and are very enthusiastic learners. The breed is divided into 3 recognized categories: Toy Poodle; Mini; Standard. Although they differ in size, one thing is for sure: they are glamorous companion pets. We have toy poodle puppies born!!!! Check it out!!! We breed world class designer puppies like poodles , yorkiepoos, morkiepoos and maltipoos! However our focus now is on poodles. We would consider ourselves to be unique breeders that always put our puppies and clients first. You will never see a bad review of us anywhere. Only great testimonials on our facebook fanpage and yelp! These breeds have hypoallergenic coats that produce much less dander, which is attached to the hair and causes most allergens in humans. Upon appropriate age, we start our puppies on grain-free wet dog food, then graduate to a special formulated puppy dry food. We begin litter box training at 5 weeks, and start crate training at 6 weeks. Puppies will come with their dew claws removed for safety, vaccinated, dewormed and tails docked if owner requests this. I know their temperament and personalities. In order to raise calmer, happier babies, I try not to intervene on the raising process, other than snuggles and kisses, until puppies are about 5 weeks of age. This is usually when I will introduce food. Our parents are groomed every 3 months as needed. We do not breed our females over the age of 6. We believe that if a puppy gets sick, it is our responsibility to get the puppy back to health! With our extended health guarantee, we offer full payment for vet bill up to the price the puppy purchased and a 2 year genetic health guarantee. You can also return the puppy for a full refund as well with a vet note. Breeder Sharee Avila offers lively and healthy Moyen, or medium-sized, Poodle puppies as family companions. Each puppy is microchipped and placed on a spay or neuter contract and has a one-year health guarantee. Toy Poodle and Maltese Perfection is an innovative breeder that offers hearty, colorful litters for anyone who prefers smaller breeds. McKenzie socializes her Toy Poodle puppies with children, adults, and other dogs to help them become accustomed to their potential new homes. The puppies also receive up-to-date veterinary evaluations to keep them in top condition. When her puppies are eight weeks old, they are placed on a spay or neuter contract; they have a one-year health guarantee. Asking questions about their experience is a great way to get insight on how to keep your dog happy and healthy. This screening helps them evaluate whether buyers are responsible enough to care for their puppies. Many of them raise their puppies inside of their homes; they feed them nutritious puppy food to help them grow and do not confine them in cramped kennels. Responsible breeders give new Poodle owners up-to-date medical records, including a vaccination and deworming history. They also provide health guarantees for genetic health issues, like vision loss and epilepsy , to ensure that the pup is healthy before going to its new home. Those prices are red flags for unethical commercial breeders or puppy mills. Poodle Puppies in North Carolina Poodles are one of the most popular and versatile dog breeds for families across North Carolina and the rest of the United States. Their playful and friendly nature makes them perfect for homes with kids, while their low-shedding coat makes them ideal for people with allergies. Poodle puppies come in several coat colors. Some breeders offer black Poodles, while others sell apricot and white Parti Poodles, for a unique pattern consisting of white and another color. Poodles require extensive grooming to prevent matting, so you can expect to get them groomed every six weeks. I also recommend brushing them every day to remove any traces of dander in their coat. Many breeders specialize in one or more Poodle sizes: Toy, Miniature, and Standard. The smaller sizes are ideal for apartment life. Regardless of the size you prefer, this high-maintenance breed needs plenty of exercise. Therefore, you should take them on an hour-long walk every day. Conclusion Although searching for trustworthy Poodle breeders in North Carolina can feel intimidating for first-time dog owners, you can find several of them across the state who love caring for their dogs as much as you do. If you are interested in owning a healthy, energetic Poodle, feel free to ask these breeders any questions about their pups and practices to see if they are the right pick for you. Similar Posts. You will be able to find all their current contact information, as well as a link to their website, so you can see what puppies they currently have available for sale. We provide you with all this information so that you can research each breeder individually and find the one that has your perfect puppy available! If you are considering getting a Toy Poodle, you'll want to check out the incredible book "The Complete Guide to Poodles". It's written by experienced Poodle owner and dog trainer Tarah Schwartz. The book contains a lot of really useful insights that can help a new owner avoid common mistakes that most Poodle owners make. It's widely available, so pick up a copy if you see one, here is the link to grab one on Amazon, or you can download the audiobook version here. If you can't find the perfect Toy Poodle puppy in your state, try checking at your local animal shelter or rescue organization. Many Toy Poodles young and old need a loving home and adopting one can be a great way to save a life. We are so happy that you have chosen Local Puppy Breeders to help you find the puppy of your dreams. In addition to visiting us often here, you can check us out on Facebook , Twitter , and Pinterest for more information, pictures, and videos!
shots for german shepherd puppy - Once purchased, you can arrange the delivery or pick up of your German Shepherd Service Dog. We have multiple delivery options available up to and including ground transportation and air shipping. The cost of delivery is in accordance to location and mode of transport. When purchasing a German Shepherd from Fernbrook German Shepherds LLC, Buyer agrees they will not sell, give or release the GSD to pet shops, retail stores, dog dealers, animal testing facilities, research facilities, or an agent for any such business or facility. Our puppies are from select Sires and Dams, of which you are central in the planned litter event, just by signing up for the Sire and Dam of your choice. Many are currently in service at this time, and many are in service dog training for future implementation. Quality Veterinary Care is a key component in raising, caring for, and breeding our German Shepherd Service dogs. Here at Fernbrook German Shepherds LLC, we openly discuss; expected veterinary care and vaccination, Heartworm Prevention, proper nutrition, enhancing immunity, general care, training and maintenance of GSDs with our buyers. We want the best possible outcome for our Fernbrook German Shepherds and those who receive them. Obtaining Your Fernbrook German Shepherd In addition to sending in an application request, you can call us to consult and let us know what you are looking for in a German Shepherd Service dog or puppy. We provide generous discounts to American Veterans, Emergency First Responders, disabled persons needing German Shepherd Service dogs, and other persons in need that may have a special circumstance. Follow Us. Can German Shepherds be Service Dogs? Yes, they can. In general, German Shepherds work best as physical assistance dogs. This young dog is still in training, but you can see some of the things they can do for their owners: Qualities of German Shepherd Service Dogs Service dogs have to have a certain set of characteristics so they can do their job. Here are some of the qualities of German Shepherds that line up with service dog requirements: Obedient. German Shepherds were bred to follow any command given to them without hesitation. This is particularly helpful for physical disabilities where a person may need to use the dog to help maneuver themselves. German Shepherds are large enough that they can physically help as needed. Good sense of smell. For some service dog roles, a dog needs to be able to detect certain odors and alert their owner of them. Just being with their owner throughout the day is usually enough for them. This breed is eager to please their owner and puts their best paw forward so they always get the job done. Suspicious of strangers but trusting anyone their owner trusts, these dogs do well in social situations. German Shepherds have been known to go as far as putting their lives in danger to protect their owners. Their protective instincts make them excellent guard dogs and will ensure their owner stays safe. All service dogs fall into one of these three main categories: 1. Physical Disability Service Dogs These dogs help people that are physically handicapped to live a more normal life. They provide assistance in getting around, picking up objects, turning off lights, and many other everyday tasks that may be difficult or impossible for their owner. German Shepherds are particularly well-suited for this type of work. Because they are intelligent, they can learn to do a wide variety of tasks, and they are also large enough to help support their owners physically. Psychiatric Service Dogs Psychiatric service dogs are trained to help those with mental disorders including anxiety, depression, and PTSD. They provide a lot more than emotional support as they can identify everything from hallucinations to panic attacks and are ready to intervene. For example, a person who experiences anxiety when approached by strangers could unintentionally trigger aggression in their dog. Their protective nature can turn into aggression against people who are unknowingly causing anxiety. They alert their handler when their blood sugar level rapidly rises or falls based on the scent of their breath. Then, the individual can take immediate action to solve the problem before it gets worse. Veteran Service Dogs Many veterans struggle with adjusting to life after serving their country. Service dogs provide companionship to these veterans and help with daily tasks that may now be difficult. These dogs may do a variety of jobs that both mobility and emotional support dogs do. Because of the emotional aspect that many veterans need, it takes a special canine to do this type of work. So, not all German Shepherds will be able to do this job. Calmer breeds like Labradors and Golden Retrievers typically do best in this role. Epilepsy Service Dogs German Shepherd can alert their owner of an oncoming epileptic seizure so they can get themselves to a safe location. The dog will then stay nearby to help keep them from injury during the attack and can also bring things like medications or a phone to call for help if needed. Allergy Alert Service Dogs Like bomb- and drug-sniffing dogs, allergy alert service dogs are trained to alert their owner when they detect the scent of a certain allergen. They may also wear a special vest containing medication for their owner. As German Shepherds have a good sense of smell, it makes them great allergy alert service dogs. Mobility Support Service Dogs People with cerebral palsy and other similar mobility disorders may need some extra help getting around. Service dogs help provide a counterbalance for them. They also perform tasks like opening and closing doors. A pound German Shepherd is tall and strong enough to provide this service to people up to pounds. Guide Dogs Also known as seeing-eye dogs, these dogs are trained to help visually-impaired individuals safely navigate the world. They may also help with other tasks such as bringing items to their owner. Wheelchair Service Dogs The world is unfortunately not designed for people in wheelchairs which makes it difficult for them to do many everyday things. They can pick up items their owner has dropped, reach things like light switches, and perform many other tasks. Hearing Service Dogs For handlers with hearing problems, their dog alerts them to different sounds such as the doorbell, a ringing phone, alarms, or a crying baby. They can then lead their owner to the source if they need to take action. The cost of these dogs differs and depends on how they were trained and what they were trained for. The more specialized the service, the costlier the dog. Specialized service means that more professional training went into the dog. Some people may consider getting a dog on their own and training it themselves. Something else that goes into the cost of a dog is bloodlines. German Shepherd breeders that specialize in service dogs strive to produce outstanding dogs that will excel in that field. Another thing that you need to consider before getting a service dog is the ongoing cost of dog ownership. It requires expertise, patience, and a strong desire to do good in the world. Here are some tips on how to train a German Shepherd as a service dog: Socialize them. This is so important because a service dog needs to be prepared to do their job without being distracted by people. Service dogs will also need to be properly socialized with dogs and other animals. Set goals. Make sure these goals are both attainable but challenging. As the dog achieves the goals you set, keep giving them new ones to reach for so they can continue to grow in their training. Be patient. Be patient with them and willing to repeat lessons as often as they need to understand them. Be the Alpha. You need to step up from the moment your dog enters your home and present yourself as their leader. For that reason, you want to look for a breeder that focuses on the physical and mental abilities of their dogs rather than just their appearance. This is especially important when considering breeders in the United States as many of these dogs are part of a show line which features weak, sloped backs, and high incidences of hip dysplasia. Knows the breed. They should know everything about the needs and temperament of the breed and be able to answer all of your questions about German Shepherds. Invites you into their home. A good breeder has nothing to hide. Is highly specialized. They offer only one or two dog breeds and know them well. A good breeder will also give you a written contract with requirements and a health guarantee. These breeders focus on working dogs and have had some of their puppies end up as service dogs already:. Pettable Academy is designed to bring out the best in your pet Access Guided Dog Training Today German shepherds are highly intelligent, loyal, adaptable, and protective. They have ranked as the second most popular dog breed in the U. A German shepherd may be just the dog you need when considering a canine companion to assist you. Choosing the best service dog combines personal choice and individual needs. Here, we've put together everything you need to know to make an informed decision about whether a German shepherd service dog is right for you. German Shepherd Service Dogs German Shepherds are highly versatile and intelligent service dogs that can assist individuals with a range of disabilities, including visual and hearing impairments, mobility issues, and psychiatric disorders. Their loyal and protective nature makes them ideal for tasks such as guiding, alerting, and providing emotional support to their owners. The Bottom Line What are service dogs? Why German shepherds as service dogs? How do you get a German shepherd service dog? What's the difference between a service dog vs. A service animal is any dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability, according to the Americans with Disabilities Act ADA. Based on this definition, only dogs are considered service animals. A service dog enables its owner to lead an independent life as a disabled person. A service animal's job or tasks must be directly related to the individual's disability. Work or job examples include but are not limited to the following: Assisting individuals who are blind or have low vision with navigation and other tasks Alerting deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals to the presence of people or sounds Providing non-violent protection or rescue work Pulling a wheelchair Assisting an individual during a seizure Alerting individuals to the presence of allergens Retrieving items such as medicine or the telephone Providing physical support and assistance with balance and stability to individuals with mobility disabilities Helping individuals with psychiatric and neurological disabilities by preventing or interrupting impulsive or destructive behaviors. Types of Service Dogs Many different types of service dogs specialize in assisting people with disabilities. The types of service dogs listed below are just a few of the most common. Service Dogs Guide dogs assist blind and visually impaired people in navigating their surroundings. Hearing dogs help deaf and hard-of-hearing people detect important sounds. Mobility dogs help people who use wheelchairs or walking aids or who have balance problems. Medical alert dogs may also alert the user to the presence of allergens, signal the onset of a medical problem such as a seizure or low blood sugar, and perform a variety of other tasks. Psychiatric Service Dogs Psychiatric service dogs help people with disabilities like obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, and others. Psychiatric service dogs may perform tasks such as entering a dark room and turning on a light to alleviate stress, interrupting repetitive behaviors, and reminding a person to take medication. Pettable offers a free consultation with a licensed mental health professional to certify your eligibility for a psychiatric service dog. You may then either purchase a psychiatric service dog or train your dog to become a PSD. Did You Know? Psychiatric Service Dogs PSDs are protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act and are legally granted access to places where pets are prohibited, such as airplane cabins, storefronts and restaurants. German Shepherd History As the name suggests, the German shepherd originated in Germany in the late s. The most intelligent, responsive, and obedient local shepherd dogs in Germany were bred to create what is now known as the German shepherd. This breed was responsible for herding sheep and protecting flocks from predators. They were not considered pets or companions but rather servants for farmers. Their intelligence, speed, strength, and keen sense of smell made them the perfect choice as sheep herders. Although German shepherds were considered workers rather than household pets, farmers did provide food, protection, and shelter to the breed. By World War I, the German shepherd was famous throughout Germany and quickly spread to other parts of the world. People loved German shepherds for their loyal and courageous character. Due to the breed's reputation for being courageous and easy to train, German shepherds were welcomed as police and sight dogs for the blind. Their superb sense of smell and heroic character made the German shepherd an ideal police dog. Their faithful observance of what is going on around them, along with their patience, landed them the role of leader to the blind. As much as we love dogs, not all pups are appropriate service dogs. German shepherds have many traits that make them good service dogs. You need the dog to learn appropriate behaviors in public areas and when around other people. You may also rely on them to understand and perform complex tasks. They can't just be intelligent, though. Service dogs must be interested in learning what their owners teach them. German shepherds are one of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world. They are keen on learning and can pick up new skills quickly. GSDs are athletic and like having something to do. Their intelligence and trainability make them popular working dogs, so you often see them used as military dogs, police dogs, and drug-sniffing dogs. It's also why they make excellent service dogs. German Shepherds Have a Good Sense of Smell Many people have conditions that would require a dog that can put its nose to work for them. Those with medical conditions such as epilepsy or diabetes use their canine helpers to prevent a medical emergency. Canines have noses anywhere from 10, to , times as powerful as we humans. German shepherds' noses are one of the reasons they are used as drug-sniffing dogs and in search and rescue. They can learn to pick up on changes in chemical compounds through odor detection. When you combine their intelligence with their sense of smell, GSDs make excellent service dogs for those with certain medical conditions. German Shepherds Are Very Loyal Matching a canine helper with the right owner is essential to ensuring the pup is up to the tasks required. When you get a service dog, you need to know you can count on it to do its job. Likewise, it needs to be able to count on you. Trust establishes loyalty. A loyal service animal is committed to its owner, continuing to take its job seriously through the years. German shepherds make outstanding service dogs because they are very loyal. Though they are often stand-offish at first, they are fiercely loyal once there is trust between them and their owners. GSDs are more loyal than some of the other breeds people frequently use as service dogs, including Labrador retrievers. They need to care enough to warn or protect them from situations that could cause harm. A strong bond between a service animal and its owner is critical. The loyalty these dogs feel towards their owners translates to a desire to protect them. German shepherds are often used as guard dogs because they have a protective instinct. Shepherd guide dogs protect their owners' safety. These pups aren't quick to warm up to strangers and often need socialization training to ensure they can handle their tasks without becoming aggressive or anxious if their owner is in trouble in a public environment. German Shepherds Are Adaptable When you think about what service animals do, you can see why they need to be adaptable. Service animals often accompany their owners everywhere they go. They are frequently faced with new environments and novel situations and must be able to do their dog work in any situation. GSDs are highly adaptable, making German shepherds one of the most popular service dogs. They can transfer their learning from one situation to another, and trained dogs aren't typically confused when routines vary. Their ability to focus on their jobs is why they are so adaptable. German Shepherds Are Courageous German shepherds are the best breed to become service dogs or police dogs due to their courageous nature. This breed will not hesitate to risk their safety or perform brave tasks to ensure the safety and well-being of their owner. You can always rely on a German shepherd. When properly trained, they will have no problem completing any task for their owner at any time they are needed. Whether a disabled person needs assistance in the middle of the night or early in the morning, a German shepherd will be eagerly ready to help at any moment. German Shepherds Are Patient German shepherds are known for being patient and having excellent temperaments. They are willing to learn, obey, and please their owners, with lots of patience and character. These traits make this breed easily trainable to become service dogs. GSDs are outstanding dogs for people with physical disabilities and medical conditions requiring an alert to keep them from danger. Some of these dogs may be capable of serving as psychiatric support dogs. Physical Guide These guide dogs often perform as seeing-eye dogs, helping owners with visual impairments navigate safely, avoid obstacles and get where they need to go. They may assist their owners in using public transportation, crossing streets, and moving through stores to find what they need. They may also perform as hearing dogs for those with auditory impairments. These dogs give their humans a head's up when important sounds occur in their environments, such as a baby crying or the doorbell ringing. Medical Alert GSDs make good service dogs for people with life-threatening allergies, low blood sugar hypoglycemia , diabetes and epilepsy. Medical alert dogs let their owners know when there is a threat related to their medical conditions. They may also carry medication in a vest and know to seek help when their owners have a medical emergency. Daily Task Assistance Trainers teach service dogs to help their owners with physical disabilities perform tasks that might otherwise be hard for them. They may deliver household items, open and close doors, turn lights on and off and pick up dropped items. German shepherds often perform these tasks for owners who use a wheelchair. Physical Support If you have a physical disability such as cerebral palsy or a similar condition, German shepherds have the strength to offer stability as a counterbalance. The breed weighs an average of 55 pounds and are good physical assistance dogs for those weighing less than pounds. GSDs are prone to hip dysplasia, so it's essential to find one that doesn't have that issue. Emotional Support A psychiatric service dog helps people with mental disabilities or mental health. A German shepherd service dog that fills this role can sense anxiety and warn its owner of panic attacks. It offers emotional support, comfort, and companionship. Not all German shepherds can perform this role, and other breeds that are generally calmer, such as Labrador retrievers, are more often used as psychiatric and emotional support dogs. Medication Reminders Since German Shepherds are easy to train and reliable, they can be trained to remind their owners to take their medication every day, at the designated time, or at any interval a person has to take their medicine but may forget or lose track of time due to their disability. Sniff Out Illnesses German shepherds have a strong sense of smell. This allows them to be able to sniff out perpetrators or illegal substances for the police or military. For those with disabilities seeking a service dog, German shepherds can also be trained to sniff out certain cancers or other serious health concerns that a person may be experiencing. In order to get a service dog you must first be diagnosed with a disability that can be aided by having a service dog. The service dog will need to be trained to perform specific tasks that assist you with your disability such as deep pressure therapy or interrupting self-harming behaviors. Take our online PSD quiz to get started. Complete Our Assessment To assist us in determining your needs for a psychiatric service dog and your current condition, you must first complete our brief evaluation. Consult With a Therapist You will then be matched with a licensed mental health professional and offered a link to schedule a live consultation with them after completing privacy and permission paperwork authorizing our doctors to work with you. After that, you'll meet with a mental health professional and have an assessment to see whether you're eligible for a psychiatric service dog. Train Your Psychiatric Service Dog If you qualify for having a psychiatric service dog you will then need to ensure that the animal is properly trained in performing specificl tasks that assist you with your mental health. German shepherds can easily be taught to serve as service dogs, and can be trained either by a professional dog trainer or by yourself at home. Being patient with your dog is crucial if you plan to train your service dog independently because the process might take a while. However, training a service animal can be a time-consuming but extremely worthwhile procedure if you're completely committed to them. It's crucial to keep in mind that service animals must go through training before receiving certification. This training can be carried out independently through an online PSD training program or via a professional trainer. Just like any other emotional support animal or service dog, you can adopt Germn shepherds from your local shelters or through breeders. No matter the breed or if the dog is already someone's companion, any dog can be certified as a service animal. Owners of these dogs must make sure to develop a bond with them, go through training, and receive certification. There are also programs that let individuals adopt service animals who have already received training and need a new owner. You must speak with a certified mental health expert to see if you are eligible for a German shepherd service dog. However, the following mental and emotional conditions frequently make someone eligible for a service dog: Depression and Depressive Disorders. This is for a large number of reasons, such as their temperament, loyalty, size, strength, and much more, which we will get into later. They are often seen in law enforcement as police dogs, or excelling in obedience classes, acting as a farm dog, being military dogs, or providing protection and search and rescue services. They are a very loyal, intelligent breed, making them perfect for being a service dog. Service dogs must be intelligent, work-minded, well-focused and calm, all of which are traits the German Shepherd is known for. What are Service Dogs? The definition of a service dog according to the U. Examples of such work or tasks include guiding people who are blind, alerting people who are deaf, pulling a wheelchair, alerting and protecting a person who is having a seizure, alerting owners to a panic attack, reminding a person with mental illness to take prescribed medications, calming a person with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder PTSD during an anxiety attack, or performing other duties. Types of Service Dogs Service dog: A service dog is the most common type and is the broadest category. A service animal can help with many things, so this category is dogs that provide support to someone who needs some form of physical assistance. Guide dogs: These dogs are also known as seeing-eye-dogs and help guide the blind navigate the world. A guide dog will help their handler avoid obstacles, ensure they step over curbs and holes, help them cross roads and open doors, etc. They undergo vigorous training and can accomplish dozens of tasks. Hearing dogs: These talented pups assist their deaf handlers as they navigate the world. Mainly, they are trained to help their owners with ensuring they receive vital cues of sounds they cannot hear themselves. They will guide their owner to the sound or to safety, depending on the condition of the situation. Medical alert dogs: These service dogs help owners suffering from seizures or epilepsy prepare for an upcoming one and keep them safe during it. Another type of service dog under this category is a diabetic assistance dog, who help alert their owner when their blood sugar is low. Mobility assistance dogs: A mobility assistance dog is a type of service dog that helps humans with spinal injuries, leg injuries, or any injury that makes walking, standing or balancing difficult. These are typically larger breed dogs since they provide balance support for their handler. They help them stay standing , open doors, retrieve items, etc. Psychiatric service dog: This special service dog assists people with mental disabilities. They have all the same rights as all the above mentioned service dogs, but undergo specialized service dog training to perform tasks their owner needs assistance with. These service dogs help with mental health issues rather than mobility issues. Someone who suffers from depression, anxiety attacks, PTSD, and more would likely benefit from a psychiatric service dog. Click the below video to learn more about psychiatric service dogs. Therapy dog: A therapy dog is not a service dog, but instead a loyal pet that helps provide comfort to children or elderly people in a hospital or nursing home. They undergo some specialized training, including passing an American Kennel Club Good Citizen test, then visit sick children, adults, or people of any age to provide comfort. Emotional support animal : An emotional support animal is a companion animal that provides emotional support to their owner. An emotional support dog does not undergo any specialized training and is not a service dog. Service dogs are ADA recognized, while emotional support dogs are just friendly pets that help their owner feel comfortable. Working dogs: Other types of dogs are not your typical pets, but are also not a service dog. We often call these pups a working dog. Some types of working dogs include: guard dogs, hunting dogs, cattle dogs, herding dogs, etc. They are not ADA recognized and do not offer any medical or mental support to their owners or handlers. Other examples of this type include police force dogs, drug sniffing dogs, bomb dogs, etc. Emotional Support Dog vs. They undergo specialized training and have federally protected rights. They can accompany their owner anywhere, such as businesses, schools, non-pet friendly housing, on airplanes, etc. To get a psychiatric service dog, you must be diagnosed with a disability and prescribed a service dog who undergoes vigorous training to support you. An emotional support dog only requires a letter of recommendation from a doctor. They are simply a pet who offers mental and emotional benefits to their owner. It is very important to recognize the difference between these two types of dogs. Service dogs wear vests to set themselves apart, as they have a very important job and should be recognized as working dogs. Why German Shepherds? You may have noticed while you read all of the above types of service dogs and working dogs that German Shepherds are a common breed used for these services. This is not a coincidence. German Shepherds were bred for excellence. In Europe during the s, people were working to standardize dog breeds. Dogs were bred to preserve traits that assisted in their jobs, such as herding sheeps, protecting flocks, guarding humans, etc. In , Capt. Max von Stephanitz took interest in a medium-sized black and yellow dog for its herding tendencies, intelligence, and especially its ability to take direction quickly and efficiently, with minimal training. Thus, the German Shepherd dog began its growth to one of the most popular breeds around. The German Shepherd is a medium-to-large size dog, with a built and lean conformation, with a few distinctive colors: black, black and tan, sable, and a few other variants. They typically weigh between 75 to 95 pounds at full size, and stand between 22 to 26 inches tall. This breed can reach impressive speeds of 30 mph at maximum speed. The German Shepherd lives between nine and 13 years on average. What really sets them apart is their amazing temperament and incredible obedience. Their breed characteristics include a strong desire to please, an excellent work ethic, and extreme loyalty. Their temperament is calm enough to be a family dog, but also a trained work dog. They make great service dogs and guide dogs for this exact reason. German Shepherd service dogs are great due to their size. They are also extremely intelligent and learn tasks easily and are willing to work at any moment. Service dogs must be smart, devoted and hard working, which GSDs certainly are. German Shepherd service dogs are great service dogs and psychological service dogs. They even make amazing therapy dogs, emotional support dogs, search and rescue dogs, and more. As dogs, German Shepherds are one of the best out there. Even as puppies, they form very strong bonds with a person and excel in both owner training and program training. If you look at service dog breeders, many swear by the breed as an excellent choice for a service dog. They have solid bodies and incredible strength. They love to work, which is essential for a service animal, and love having a job. They are confident and love to please someone, but are friendly to everyone if trained well, another very important part of being a service dog. German Shepherds are extremely intelligent, and according to many rainers, are the easiest breed to train. Shepherds in general are extremely smart and athletic, but add in the loyalty of the German Shepherd, and you have a top notch service dog. Many German Shepherd puppies are bred solely for becoming service animals. Service dogs are only given to people with disabilities that hinder their quality of life. For a psychiatric service dog, you must consult with a licensed mental health professional. This is the only legitimate way to acquire a service dog. If they recommend a service dog, the next step is finding a psychiatric service dog for you. There are a few various methods to this. You can look at rescues in your local area to see if they have any German Shepherds available, or you can purchase a German Shepherd dog from a breeder or service dog organization. If you adopt one or purchase one from a breeder, you will want to work with a service dog trainer or service dog program training to make sure your German Shepherd becomes the best service dog possible. This is the best way to ensure you get a German Shepherd that is healthy, loves their job, and has all the characteristics we love about the wonderful breed. In breeding, we want the breeds to stay regulated and standardized. German Shepherds are not only one of the most popular breeds ever, but also one of the most common components of a mixed dog! Even a little bit of German Shepherd in a dog is a great addition. It may have plenty of that German Shepherd charm, intelligence, and athleticism. Visit your local shelters and consult with their staff about any available German Shepherds and their personalities to see if they could be a good service dog for you. Conclusion Now you see why German Shepherds are such a beloved breed, not only as pets, but also as service animals. Breeders love them, training schools love them, people love them, we all love them. Their strength, intelligence, athleticism, and temperament make them a great choice for any household or any person looking for a service animal. Are you looking for a psychiatric service dog? Here at CertaPet , we can help. CertaPet is an online telehealth platform that improves access to mental health care in the U. We are currently coordinating with dog trainers who specialize in the service animal space and who will soon work in tandem with our network of licensed mental health professionals to make the process of getting and training a psychiatric service dog affordable, convenient, and hassle-free. German Shepherds are loyal, intelligent, work-minded, a good size, and extremely athletic. They are also extremely friendly. How do I get a psychiatric service dog? First, you must consult with a mental health professional to see if you qualify. If you are diagnosed with a mental disability, you will begin your search for a dog and begin training What are German Shepherds commonly used for? This breed is very versatile! They are beloved pets, police dogs, bomb sniffing dogs, military dogs, working dogs, herding dogs, and much, much more. You may also like. How to train a German Shepherd as a service dog yourself German Shepherds have been bred as working dogs for centuries. The breed has shown itself to be one of the most intelligent, trainable, loyal, and work-loving breeds of all others. Today, they still partner up with the disabled, rated as the most popular service dogs worldwide. What makes German Shepherds such good service dogs? To answer this question, we must first find out what a service dog is and does. Service dogs are working dogs that have been specially trained to help a person or group of people with a disability or specific needs. German Shepherds are one of the most popular choices as service dogs because the essential characteristics of this breed line up with the requirements of service animals of any kind: Obedient German Shepherds were bred to listen and obey any command given to them without hesitation. Obedience training wouldn't be a problem for them either. Strong and healthy German Shepherds are large enough to help with physical disabilities, where a person may need to use the dog to aid mobility. Besides, most German Shepherds are healthy dogs, which gives off a strong presence. Active and athletic German Shepherds require lots of exercise for their physical and mental well-being and love to keep busy, which means they are always ready to work. Intelligent and hardworking This breed is a highly intelligent companion and an outstanding worker. German Shepherds are eager to please and put their best paw forward, so they always get the job done. Approachable and well-socialized They trust anyone their owner trusts. They are also comfortable and confident in many different environments, surrounded by many other people. What kinds of jobs are suitable for a German Shepherd? Guide Dog - help people with visual impairments to navigate their surroundings. Diabetic Alert Dog — detect and alert a person with diabetes about low blood sugar. Allergy Alert Service Dog — detect and alert someone with life-threatening allergies about the presence of an allergen. Hearing dog - alert someone with hearing impairment of key sounds. Mobility Support Service Dog - assist the mobility of someone who uses a wheelchair or walker; pick up and deliver household items for someone with physical disabilities; open doors and turn on lights. Reason 1 These dogs are very athletic and intelligent, which means they need to exercise and be challenged. They are more task-oriented. Thus, anyone who plans to have a German Shepherd as a service dog must also be prepared to spend time and energy by giving them physical exercise and mental stimulation. Reason 2 They have a strong, protective instinct and are suspicious of strangers. When they sense anxiety from the handlers in public, German Shepherds can be anxious or even act aggressively in public. Find an organization or an agency that trains them. You will have to sign a contract for a puppy they have specially bred and screened to be a good candidate for work as a service dog. They will then fully train the puppy until it is ready to join your family. The specific amount will vary based on how they were trained, what they were trained for, vet bills, etc. Option 2 Get a German Shepherd service dog for free or at a discounted rate from a non-profit organization The following organizations may be able to help you to afford a service dog if you meet their criteria:. When you visit our website you may provide us with two types of information: personal information you knowingly choose to disclose that is collected on an individual basis and website use information collected on an aggregate basis as you and others browse our website. 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shots for german shepherd puppy - An empty outlined icon indicating the option to save an item Save Article 1. Golden Retrievers instinctively love to swim. They're always up for a game of fetch in the lake. Golden Retrievers are often used on search and rescue teams because of their keen sense of smell and tracking abilities. They make great therapy dogs. Dudley Coutts Marjoribanks, also known as Lord Tweedmouth, developed the breed in Scotland during the late 19th century. They are considered to be the 4th smartest dog breed in line behind Border Collies, Poodles, and German Shepherds. They have water-repellent double coats that shed seasonally. Brush your Golden once a week to minimize the shedding! Presidents Ford and Reagan both had Golden Retrievers as pets while in office. There are actually three types of Golden Retrievers , and they vary in color and size. They are known to take care of other animals, even cats. Golden Retrievers are known to become sad and even depressed when left alone for long periods of time. Experts say they shouldn't be left alone for more than seven hours. They make great watch dogs, but not-so-great security dogs. They'll bark loudly at strangers, but once they physically interact with a person, a Golden becomes more friendly. Our June cover girl, Golden Retriever History Facts This section obviously includes the history of goldens, but also some facts about the breed today. Golden retrievers are originally from Scotland Tomich, Scotland, to be precise. They are a mix of a Tweed water spaniel and a wavy-coated retriever both extinct now. The first pair of these two dogs were named Nous the retriever and Belle the spaniel. The first litter of goldens was born in .They were originally bred to hunt waterfowl, as Lord Tweedmouth was a hunter and wanted a dog that could retrieve game both on land and in the water. Like all good stories, there is some controversy surrounding the origin of the golden retriever breed. Golden retrievers are part of the sporting group. This includes breeds such as retrievers, spaniels, setters, and others. Golden retrievers are one of six retriever breeds. This also includes Labrador retrievers, Chesapeake Bay retrievers, curly-coated retrievers, flat-coated retrievers, and the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling retrievers. Golden retrievers are the 3rd most popular breed in America. Golden retrievers were recognized by the AKC in .This is 57 years after the first goldens were bred. Golden Retriever Physical Facts This section includes a mix of facts about their physical stature, physical needs, and even some stats about their brains! The breed standard height is inches for males and .The breed standard weight is pounds for males and pounds for females. There is only one type of golden retriever. American, Canadian, English, English Cream, and European golden retrievers are all one breed: golden retriever. The average lifespan is years. Yes, goldens can live much longer lives, but this is the average. There are no white golden retrievers. English Cream Golden Retrievers, which are typically light-colored, are in fact a pale gold color click here to learn more about English Cream Golden Retrievers. There are no black golden retrievers. Golden retrievers have webbed feet. This is one of the physical traits that make them good hunting dogs. Golden retrievers have a double coat. These two coats protect their skin and help regulate their body temperatures. They release heat through their paws, mouth, and nose. Some goldens have black spots on their tongue. These black spots are just pigmented skin cells. Golden retrievers need hours of exercise per day. Their faces turn gray as they age. This usually starts around years old. Golden retrievers have soft mouths. Since they were bred as hunting dogs, they naturally have soft mouths to carry fowl in. This is when they shed the most in preparation for warmer or cooler weather. Related articles:. You may have one and be wondering if there is some information about them that you don't know yet, or maybe you're thinking of getting one. So here are nine important and fun facts you should know about this dog breed. They are great family dogs Golden retrievers rank among the top 3 most popular dogs in the US every year for a reason. They are fiercely loyal and obedient dogs that like to spend time with people they consider as family. Being highly tolerant with children and other family pets including cats! They have a long life span Goldens are the perfect lifetime companion because they boast an astonishing life span as a Golden Retrievers lifespan ranges between years, which means you get to experience its fun-loving and loyal spirit for over a decade. Golden retrievers are excellent hunting companions These fun-loving dogs were first bred in the Scottish estate of Lord Tweedmouth to retrieve fowl for hunters in these parts. They were developed with a superb sense of smell that was more sensitive and useful to their hunting companions than the other breeds being used then. This makes them excellent hunting companions as they are loyal and effective trackers. They are natural athletes The same features that make golden retrievers great hunting companions also make them supreme athletes. Blessed with a broad head, muscular bodies, and powerful necks, they are a strong and energetic breed with the stamina to run for a lengthy period. Golden's love to pursue and catch because they love to and are good at it. Thus, they require constant exercise daily to exert their qualities. They love to swim Although almost all dogs know how to swim, they usually would rather do something else like play catch. But most golden retrievers are especially interested in being in and around water, swimming, or playing water games like water frisbee. Due to their natural athleticism, large webbed toes, and long tails, they are a favorite on the dock jumping circuit, gliding across the water with their tongue out as they do on land. They have a special fur They have specially designed fur, which consists of two layers. The outer layer is waterproof to protect the water from reaching their skin while swimming, and the inner layer functions as a warming blanket. As a golden retriever gets older, its fur gradually gets darker, and you can project the exact color a Golden puppy's fur will be by looking at the color of the tip of the dog's ear. Golden retrievers are cross breed search and rescue dogs They were bred in mid 19th century Scotland as a hunting breed from the now extinct Tweed Water Spaniel and a Yellow flat-coated retriever. They have high pain tolerance, intelligence, and impeccable sense of smell which makes them excellent in search and rescue operations. Hardworking and attentive, they can maintain their focus and let their noses lead the way. They are easy to train Because Golden retrievers are easily trained , they are always picked as the preferred breed to act in tv shows and movies. They enjoy being taught and follow instructions down to the letter. That is why they were the first three dogs to win the AKC obedience championship. They are great service and therapy dogs Due to their intelligence and intense sense of human emotions, they are good choices for therapy or canine assistance. Because they are easy to train, they can learn to help carry out certain activities for people with mental or physical disabilities. This means that owners can use them as hearing dogs, guide dogs, medical alert dogs, and other similar functions, which is why they are so sought after. Golden retrievers have become a mainstay in the average American family since they were brought into North America in the s. They can serve as a great companion, hunting partner, and service aid all at the same time, which makes them extremely versatile. A well-groomed Golden is just a beautiful sight to behold; thus, they require proper care and daily brushing to stay looking healthy. Leave a comment. Posted on December 2, by Galen Kauffman Share: There are few dogs in history more famous and easily recognized than the golden retriever. In fact, Golden Retriever facts will reveal to you that this beautiful dog even has aristocratic roots. A flat-coated retriever and Tweed water spaniel were bred to bring about the Golden Retriever. They earned their namesake because they were originally bred for bringing back waterfowl shot by hunters out of the water. Sport hunting in Europe and North America increased interest in the development of gun dogs and Setter, Pointers and Retrievers have specific attributes that make them superb sporting- and gun dogs. It comes from decades ago when there was the need for a gun dog that could plunge fearlessly into the water to retrieve game from the water after being shot down. The breed was originally created by Lord Tweedmouth of Scotland to be his attractive, cheerful hunting companions. It would have been impossible for him to navigate the marshes, bogs, water, and land to retrieve the birds were it not for his energetic, enthusiastic Golden Retriever companion. These working dogs retrieved ducks and waterfowl during hunting trips and would gently pick the birds up without breaking their bones. Tweedmouth got that distinctive long-haired golden look from mixing the Tweedwater Spaniel, a now-extinct breed, with the Flat-Coated Retriever. The Tweed Water Spaniel became extinct but is best known for being involved in the y development of the Golden Retriever breed of dogs. The Flat-Coated Retriever breed is a strong, muscular dog with an intelligent, friendly expression. They come in 3 colors and they have a strong desire to please people. The Flat-Coated Retriever is a distinctive breed, a natural breed with strong hunting abilities. Later in their history, to further diversify the breed from the pack, Newfoundlands, Bloodhounds, Labrador Retrievers, and Red Setters were introduced. This resulted in the Golden Flat-Coat dog. Later on, the dog was named the Golden Retriever. The Golden Retriever has a double coat with a short undercoat below the coat. Both the layers help to insulate the dog against cold, moist weather. The double coat also has a waterproofing effect. Those coats come in two distinct layers, the upper, wiry one keeping water from penetrating the fluffy lower coat. The Golden Retriever has a double coat, meaning there is a topcoat and a bottom coat. The outer coat of the Golden is slightly more coarse than the soft, fuzzy undercoat. Both the layers have an important role to play — protecting the skin from moisture, cold, and heat. Some urban legends say the breed originally came from a pack of Russian sheepdogs in a traveling circus. But it nonetheless makes you think of these pet urban legends. After all, Golden Retrievers love learning new tricks and they are easy dogs to train. People say their antics, their smiling face and the way they train so easily is because they once performed in a Russian circus. There is no truth in this pet urban legend. The breed was made official in when they were registered with the American Kennel Club. To this day Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular show breeds. The American Kennel Club recognized the dog in .To become a recognized breed, a dog must have an interested, active following of admirers and this the Golden Retriever has in abundance. They are large dogs with the males being about 23 to 24 inches tall. The males weigh in at about 65 to 75 pounds. The females can be anything from 21 to 24 inches in height and they can weigh between 55 to 65 pounds. They usually stand somewhere between 1 foot 9 inches tall and two feet, making them great medium-sized dogs. Because nothing is set in stone and a Golden Retriever is totally unique, you can safely class your Golden as a medium to large breed. Some will be a little larger and some smaller, but they are always beautiful strong athletic dogs. Goldens usually have a 10 to year life span, making them great family dogs. So while the Golden typically lives between 10 and 12 years of age, with good nutrition, good exercise, and a wonderful lifestyle for your pet, he can push through to 17 years of age and even older. The females are typically smaller than the males, only measuring up to about .You can always pretty much rely on the standard, but there are always variations. Each one is different in a few subtle ways. One thing is certain, they are all purebreds and they all fall under the one Golden Retriever breed. The Canadian Golden Retriever looks just a bit different from the other two in that his coat is darker and shorter and not quite as thick as the other two. The shorter hair also means less feathering on the neck, tail, and legs. The British or English golden retriever is more solidly built than the Canadian and American retrievers. English goldens also tend to be just a bit smaller than the other two varieties. American Goldens tend to have thin, dark coats and are usually the thinnest of the three. The American Golden Retriever is the most popular of the three. Its coat is darker in color than the other two varieties and it is generally taller and slightly more slender. Canadian Goldens usually have darker coats and can sometimes be the tallest of the three options. The darker coats can lean towards being a dark reddish color, almost like a Red Setter. British Goldens tend to be the lightest in color and are usually stocky and muscular. English Golden Retrievers are characterized by their muscular, stocky builds. The entire head and neck area are bigger. Their coats can be very light or golden. All three types of Goldens share the same head shape, with a broad, straight muzzle that comes to a well-defined stop. In fact, while the three types of Golden Retriever differ slightly, all three are famous for their beautiful coats, the broad head, the well-spaced eyes, and straight, bluntish muzzle. Generally, dogs with sharper pointed faces and wolf-like features tend to live way longer than their flat-faced cousins. Dogs with longer, more pointed faces live longer than broader-faced dogs such as the Golden Retriever. The coat of the Golden is dense and water repellent complete with an undercoat. The coat creates a waterproof jacket for the dog. They should never be shaved or have their coats cut very short unless needed for a medical reason. That coat is long and fluffy for good reason! The long coat protects the Golden from the heat and the cold and it should never ever be cut except for medical reasons as suggested. Its beautiful coat serves a purpose. You can always pick out a Golden Retriever with his long golden locks. Despite their name, Goldens actually range in shades. Some are a much darker, richer gold color, almost orange even, while others are much duller and muter yellow cream color. Golden Retriever colors are quite varied in the golden color range. You can see shades that are milky, some creamy, some gold, and some red. Not all the colors are recognized as a standard color by the American Kennel Club. The official colors are golden, lightly golden, and dark golden. Even though they are immensely popular, a white Golden is frowned upon by the British and American kennel clubs. You can usually get a pretty good indication of what shade your puppy is going to end up being by checking their ears. Goldens tend to have their coats get darker as they age, usually getting their true color by about a year old. Golden Retrievers promise to stay beautiful forever but their fur does get darker as they grow older. At about a year old, a Golden is considered full-grown. A Golden Retriever may well have reached his full size by one year of age, but mentally they only reach maturity at about 18 months of age. It comes about because of a breakdown of an enzyme known as tyrosinase, which produces pigment. This Tyrosinase is seen in order dog breeds too, one of which is the Husky. As sporting dogs, these Goldens are going to need plenty of exercise. As active members of the sporting group, they are always ready for action and are natural athletes. They are used for everything from hunting and tracking to rescue. Goldens are known for their kind, friendly, and confident demeanor, a selling point for their breed. Goldens are super easy to train. They love pleasing their masters, taking instructions, and learning new things. They are capable of learning voice instructions but can understand hand gestures too. So long as everyone in the family uses the same words and gestures so as not to confuse him. Golden Retrievers are immensely charming in the way they carry their puppyhood behavior well into their adult years. Golden retrievers are great family dogs, fantastic with babies and kids, and get along great with other pets in the house. No wonder they make such superb therapy dogs. Golden retrievers were trained to retrieve and hold onto wild birds and this is why they instinctively love to hold toys or your shoes in their mouth. Goldens love to carry stuff around as they were selectively bred to retrieve birds. Socialized Goldens are always good off-leash but it is best to be cautious when outside your property and have him on a leash. Because of how high-energy the breed is, Golden Retrievers make great playmates for other dogs. They make great playmates for other dogs and for kids. They fit well into active families. Goldens need, at a minimum, 30 minutes of playtime per day to live their healthiest and happiest. You should probably plan for more! An energetic, sporty breed like the Golden Retriever must get 30 minutes of playtime every day to be at their most content. Leaving a Golden outside for long periods of time often can lead to major skins problems and environmental allergies. Atopic dermatitis can affect some Goldens and things such as dust and grasses can cause your Golden to develop inflammation. Keep an eye out for scratching and lesions. Goldens are incredibly social animals that need to be social with other pups as much as possible for them to live their best, happiest lives. Due to their innate sense of loyalty, Goldens will likely want to be with you at all times. So yes, Golden Retrievers do get jealous. The social Golden Retriever loves his human family so much he feels disconnected, depressed, and lonely when separated from them and he will even suffer from separation anxiety. A great way to give your pup some relief from separation anxiety is to give them a piece of clothing with your scent on it. Because your Golden Retriever is such a people-loving dog, it is far better for him to have a pet sitter stay with him to keep him company. Maybe consider looking into a doggy daycare if nobody you know is free to hang out with your dog. With doggy daycare, your dog will have other doggy friends to keep him company. This is important as dogs are social, pack animals. Also, with doggy daycare, he will be exercised. Your Golden might be used to having food in his bowl throughout the day and also from getting treats from you. Having food available to him throughout the day can cause him to eat from sheer boredom. Speak to your vet about how to feed your Golden so that he stays the muscular, lean dog he was designed to be. Your vet can recommend the right kind of food for your Golden and the right food portions. Golden Retrievers can sometimes suffer from hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, skin conditions, and various eye diseases. From 3 to 6 months, they have rapid growth which will slow down by the time your puppy reaches 6 months of age. The whole idea of this slow-grown plan is to ensure a slow rate of growth for puppies between the ages of 0 to 4 months. The slow growth rate allows the healthiest possible development of bones and joints. Rather, give the coat a good brush 2 or 3 times a week. Dogs with folded over ears, like Goldens, are extra susceptible to ear infections. Make sure to keep an eye out and keep those ears as clean as possible. Floppy-eared dogs like Golden Retrievers and Basset Hounds do tend to have more ear infections than those dogs with upright ears. They are often water-loving dogs and the moisture trapped in the ears results in the growth of bacteria. A Golden Retriever Club of America study showed that 61 percent of Goldens die from some form of cancer, a worrying trend. Make sure you take your pup to the vet often. It is thought that Goldens have this high probability for cancer as environmental toxins may concentrate on the nails of the dog. Tests are still undergoing to prove this, but if you suspect your beloved Golden is ill, get him to the vet immediately. Both will cause serious health issues. Chocolate certainly is toxic to dogs along with other human foods. Make sure you do research on this. Make sure you keep grapes and raisins away from your pup. Both can cause liver and renal failure. As a health threat to your beautiful pup, their toxicity can cause your puppy to develop acute kidney injury with anuria which is a lack of urine production. If they eat too much, they can suffer from anemia. Even onion rings from the takeaway joint are highly toxic for your canine friend. There are a few symptoms to look out for — weakness, decreased appetite, pale gums, vomiting, and elevated heart rate. Avos are delicious for us but for your pet, the persin can cause serious health problems and even death. Veterinarians tell us that dogs are particularly resistant to persin than other animals. They tend to shatter and can do some serious internal damage to their guts. Bits of bone can even lodge in the esophagus, and in the gut causing internal bleeding as they pierce the organs. When dogs are overheated or stressed they do breather heavier than normal to cool themselves. Golden Retrievers are at their most active super early in the morning because of their history of waking up early to hunt. In fact, all dogs dream, causing them to twitch and paddle intermittently. Golden Retrievers, like most other dog breeds, have a faster heart rate than smaller breeds. The average is somewhere between 60 to beats per minute. So there is no cause for alarm as a larger dog breed does have this faster heart rate. If there is any cause for concern, get your Golden to the vet. Your Golden has around taste buds, way less than the average human with ! Dogs also have taste buds in the back of their throat, so that food that they gulp down they can actually taste! Goldens usually have around puppies at a time, giving you a massive litter of pups! Some Goldens can even have .This is because of the many scent receptors they have. For each scent receptor we have, a dog has about .Contrary to popular myths, your Golden can see color! They do it to keep themselves warm and protect the belly. Believe it or not, dogs actually have three separate eyelids. Dog experts say that dogs have floating shoulders giving them speed and agility. Just like snowflakes, no two dogs have the same two noseprints. Just like us humans have different fingerprints, dog noses each have their own unique pattern of ridges. Goldens are a quick, athletic breed that can reach up to 30 mph on average. Goldens are the go-to choice for therapy, search and guide dogs all over the world. According to the American Kennel Club, the Golden retriever is the 3rd most popular breed. Of course, and for good reason, as they are friendly, loving, playful, energetic, and utterly companionable. Despite being a relatively large breed, Goldens are great dogs for apartments or semi-small living spaces. While they can live in apartments, you will have to give more attention to their physical and mental needs, taking them out regularly for exercise. Goldens can be trained to detect epileptic seizures up to a full hour before they actually happen. It makes them invaluable for people who suffer from them. Being naturally sensitive, gentle, and attentive, they offer emotional support for anyone with a disability or suffering from depression. Ancient Egyptians loved their dogs so much that they would shave their eyebrows, smear mud in their hair, and publicly mourn when they died. Dogs were kept in Ancient Egyptian homes and apart from being terribly sad when their pets died, they would sometimes even mummify their pets and insist on them being buried with their pets. He also wants to mark his territory and while urinating, in this vulnerable position he wants to send out a warning. Supposedly, the best dog for attracting a date is the Golden Retriever while the worst is the Pit Bull. Anyone though should check out the way a person treats a dog, as they will likely treat their date like that too. Goldens are a popular choice for movies because of how trainable they are. Add in intelligence and you have the perfect canine film star. Goldens are a popular pick among celebrities and politicians, including both President Reagan and President Ford. These people are all achievers in one way or the other, and they appreciate an intelligent dog that adapts well to situations and the people they are with. They are people pleasers and will drool over strangers, but their own human family gets the most kisses and loving nudges to show their adoration. They have a low tendency to snore. Yes, all dogs snore at some time but some are heavier snorers. If yours is, rather clear it with the vet as sometimes a health issue could be causing his snoring. They have a medium tendency to bark, but will often get very excited and bark at their owners to play. If he does dig, it could be out of boredom or anxiety, and then there are things you can do. Before you buy a Golden Retriever, understand their need for attention and activity. Goldens have been as high as the second most popular dogs on the AKC charts in .Studies suggest that Goldens are the sixth least likely breed in terms of aggression. They can be trusted not to bite. Goldens have webbed toes to help them swim better. These are water dogs and this helps them swim better. Because of their thick coats, Goldens are known to shed a lot. They shed throughout the year and that is why it is important as an owner of a heavy shedding dog, to ensure you have the proper grooming tools and to brush his shedding coat three times a week to remove loose hair. Goldens respond best when positive reinforcement is incorporated into training. Golden Retrievers want to please their human owners and they want to learn. It is why they respond so well to positive reinforcement training techniques. The intelligent Golden Retriever quickly learns that good tasty treats come to them when they please their owners. Owning your Golden can make you happier and help you live longer That makes perfect sense, because, in a world of fickle human beings, the constant love and loyalty from a Golden Retriever is like therapy to people who are finding it difficult to trust human beings for true companionship. Their wonderful, gentle, happy-go-lucky natures make them sought-after therapy dogs. What makes Golden Retrievers so special? Where most dog breeds have one or two exceptional qualities the Golden Retriever has many. How smart is a Golden Retriever? The Golden Retriever is ranked smarter than most other dogs and comes in as the 4th most intelligent dog there is, easily managing to learn more than commands. What do Golden Retrievers like to do? Do Golden Retrievers bite? Highly unlikely, if ever. If they are feeling sick or feeling threatened they may nip someone. What do golden retrievers eat? Avoid most human foods. If in any doubt, speak to your vet. Why are Goldens so mouthy? They were bred to retrieve soft birds that their owners had shot. Their soft mouths are able to hold things without the teeth putting any pressure on what it is they have in their mouth. Conclusion The Golden Retriever is one of the most loved dogs breeds of all time. To appreciate them as they are, these facts about these Golden Beauties will inspire you to investigate buying a puppy. Always make sure to choose the most reputable Golden Labrador Retrievers to benefit from all these amazing qualities. My Golden Retriever Puppies are breeders who are a minefield of information on Golden Retriever puppy facts. Are you in need of a sincere friend today? There is no doubt that an exquisite, friendly, loving Golden Retriever puppy is going to improve your quality of life. Post by: Heather M. These dogs are known to be sweet, silly, loyal, lively, loving, and good-looking too. Check out some fun, interesting, and little known Golden Retriever facts! They certainly do love to clown around. Lord Tweedmouth was passionate about waterfowl hunting and wanted to create a breed with superior bird retrieving skills. According to his breeding records, he was seeking a dog that would be loyal, even keel, and well equipped for adverse environments. He started by crossing a Tweed Water Spaniel with a Wavy-Coated Retriever, which resulted in four puppies that had those desired qualities. Golden Retriever Temperament Although personalities may vary from dog to dog, there are qualities commonly associated with Golden Retrievers. They are famous for being friendly, energetic, and playful. They tend to keep their puppy-like natures even as they get older, which can be adorable as well as a bit frustrating for dog parents. They are also people-pleasers who love their humans and like to stick so close by that they are often found underfoot. All of these traits make them wonderful family dogs, but not so great watchdogs. Physical Attributes Golden Retrievers were bred to be sporting dogs, and it shows in their physical appearance. They are a medium to large-sized breed with a solid and athletic build. They also have broad heads, strong necks, and ears that fold over. So, how heavy do Golden Retrievers get? Well, they typically weigh around 55 to 75 pounds and measure between 21 and 24 inches tall. Between their size and energetic nature, these are dogs who do well in larger spaces and need plenty of exercise. As their name suggests, Golden Retrievers have golden or yellow fur that comes in a range of shades. They also have a thick undercoat and a dense, water-repellent outer layer that can be wavy or straight. Typically, they have feathery hair on the back of their front legs and along their chest, back, thighs, and tail. Golden Retriever FAQ The Golden Retriever is a popular and familiar breed, but do you know the answers to these commonly asked questions? Do Golden Retrievers shed? Yes, they sure do! That thick, double-layer coat tends to shed quite a bit, particularly in the spring and fall. If you have a Golden Retriever, you should also invest in a lint brush to keep your clothes free of fur and a sturdy vacuum to clean up that hair. Is it hard to train a Golden Retriever? Like most breeds, training a Golden Retriever takes time and patience. However, they are known to be smart and eager to please, which can help them learn commands and behaviors. They are also likely to respond well to praise and other positive reinforcement tools, like clicker training. How much exercise do they need? Golden Retrievers are energetic dogs who need plenty of exercise to help them stay in shape. An active lifestyle can also help prevent stress, frustration, and boredom, which can result in bad behaviors like chewing up your favorite shoes or damaging the furniture. Your veterinarian can tell you how much exercise is right for your dog, but a good rule of thumb for Golden Retrievers is to get them moving for at least 30 minutes two times a day. That should tire out your four-legged friend. These dogs were bred to fetch birds from the water and tend to enjoy a nice dip in a lake or pool. What should I feed my Golden Retriever? Your veterinarian can offer recommendations and advise you on a healthy feeding schedule. Be careful not to overfeed your Golden Retriever. How long do Golden Retrievers live? On average, Golden Retrievers can live anywhere from years. Some Goldens who have a clean bill of health have even lived well beyond 12 years. Like many dogs, Golden Retrievers like to chew. They also like to hold things in their mouths—remember they were bred to retrieve waterfowl. Chewing is a healthy activity for dogs since it helps clean the teeth and strengthen the jawbone. This can cause choking or obstructions that require surgery. Are they healthy dogs? While Golden Retrievers are generally considered healthy dogs, they are susceptible to a number of conditions, such as: Elbow Dysplasia This is an inherited condition common in larger breeds where the bones that make up the elbow joint develop abnormally. It can be very painful and result in lameness. Like elbow dysplasia, it can cause pain and lameness. Hypothyroidism With this disease, the thyroid gland produces too much of the hormone that helps regulate metabolism. This can lead to weight gain, skin issues, and heart problems. Luckily, it can often be treated with prescription medication. Cataracts Like humans, these dogs can get cataracts as they age, causing a cloudy film to form over the eye. Cataracts typically need surgical correction. Heart Disease Golden Retrievers are prone to heart problems, particularly a disorder called sub-aortic stenosis, which causes a narrowing of the aorta and can lead to sudden death. This makes it especially important to schedule annual check-ups, so your veterinarian can listen for heart murmurs and other signs of this disease. Cancer Skin cancer , bone cancer , and other variations of this disease can be common in Golden Retrievers. Our illness coverage includes cancer, which can be very helpful since treatments like surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy can be costly. Allergies Golden Retrievers can be prone to allergies of all kinds, from pollen to foods. If you notice your dog is pawing at their face or sneezing excessively, talk with your vet. Skin Problems These dogs can suffer from common skin disorders , such as parasites, mange, fleas, and dry skin. Regular brushing and periodic baths about once every other month unless they get into something stinky or messy! Ear Infections Those dark, damp folded-over ears are a great place for bacteria to grow. A great rule of thumb is that a healthy Golden will be a happy Golden! Ear Issues. Including a fabulous Fact vs Fiction bonus section at the end! Golden Retriever History Facts Although the Golden Retriever is now most common seen as a floppy family pet, they actually have an amazing history as a working breed. Golden Retrievers were sporting dogs Sometimes known as gundogs or hunting dogs, this breed group was created to work cooperatively with their human handlers to bring home food. Bred from several different sporting dogs to achieve an all round great land and water retriever. Golden Retrievers are still sporting dogs today Although widely regarded as family pets, the glorious Golden Retriever is still a great hunting companion. Most widely used to fetch shot game, including rabbits and pheasants. Golden Retrievers love to play fetch Due to the retrieving history, your average Golden will go nuts for a game of fetch. Golden Retriever Characteristics Facts Not only are Goldies a lovely breed with a fascinating history, they have some pretty special characteristics and talents too. Golden Retrievers are generally a friendly breed In fact, one study that looked at over 30 breeds of dog found that Goldies were among the six least likely to show aggression. The toes on their paws are joined together by thin webs of skin. Golden Retrievers are great swimmers Harking back to their history as retrievers, Goldens are great in the water. Their webbed feet help, and so does their thick coat of fur. This is known as a double coat, which consists of a thick undercoat and long fine top coat. This helps to keep them warm in the water, but also contributes to their rather dramatic shedding! Goldens shed a lot Although might be lucky and have a Goldie that blows his coat once or twice a year in moulting season, you will probably find a layer of fur follows in his path on a regular basis. Regular grooming will help too. Golden Retrievers need regular grooming Long coats need a lot of attention. But if you get your pup used to being brushed from a young age this is something that can be a relaxing and bonding time for you both. A minimum of twice a week is a good idea for your fabulously furry friend. Smart Golden Retriever Facts Any Golden Retriever owner will tell you their dog is intelligent, but just how brainy is this brilliant breed? Golden Retrievers are the 4th most intelligent dog breed Golden Retrievers are known for their smarts, and in fact according to one study are the fourth most intelligent breed of dog, with just the Border Collie, Poodle and German Shepherd beating them to the top spots. Golden Retrievers are easy to train Hunting dogs like the Golden Retriever tend to be easier to train than some other breeds, because they have been bred for generations to work cooperatively with their owners. Positive reinforcement training is best for Golden Retrievers Golden Retrievers do particularly well with modern positive reinforcement techniques, as they love spending time together and are very motivated by food and games. Working Golden Retriever Facts The world of dog training has changed a lot in the last twenty years, with positive reinforcement taking over from more traditional punishment based methods. With this change in technique and attitude, the range of jobs that our dogs can do has evolved rapidly. And a lot of them heavily involve the Golden Retriever. They rock as service dogs in general They have also secured important roles as service dogs for people with mobility issues. Golden Retrievers are wonderful support dogs for kids Goldens help children with additional needs to cope with their daily life, from support for kids with autism to helping anxious children stay calm when learning to read. Golden Retrievers help in the military and police! Not only great in supportive roles in the community, Golden Retrievers can have serious roles with the police and military too. Golden Retriever Facts For Kids Looking for some kid-friendly Golden Retriever facts, that they can rattle off at school or in the playground? Try these on for size! Golden Retriever fur darkens with age When you bring home your very blonde Golden Retriever puppy he might not stay that way, as fur can darken up as the puppy ages. This a pup with a serious range of hues! Now there are some dogs worthy of a place in the White House! Golden Retrievers love company A loving companion, these dogs do best in a home where they get a lot of attention and time from their families. Golden Retrievers can suffer from separation anxiety One potential downside of such a social dog, is that they can struggle when kept apart from their owners. In some Golden Retrievers this goes even further into a condition known as separation anxiety, where the dog becomes distressed when being left. Neurons are the pathways through which information travels, so scientists believe this is conclusive proof of their superior mental acuity! First 3 AKC obedience champs were Golden Retrievers The American Kennel Club have been holding obedience tests for many years now, but the winner of the first three of these were all gorgeous Golden Retrievers. A Golden Retriever broke the ground for Instagram The first image ever uploaded to Instagram was a picture of a Golden Retriever in ! A Golden holds the record for the loudest bark At an incredible .Healthy Golden Retriever Facts Although Golden Retrievers are by no means the least healthy dogs around, they do have some problems that owners need to be aware of. Golden Retriever lifespan is 10 to 12 years Although some Golden Retrievers can exceed this estimate and sadly some never meet it, the average Golden Retriever will spend between ten and twelve years with their family. Golden Retrievers are prone to cancer Cancer in Goldies is sadly a very common problem, and one of the reasons that their average lifespan is lower than you might expect. A Golden Retriever that avoids the cancer gene will have a much longer life expectancy. Golden Retrievers have a high risk of joint problems Goldies have three main potential contenders when it comes to joint problems. Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and cranial cruciate ligament disease. Before picking your puppy you can improve his odds of good joint health by getting him from parents with excellent hip and elbow scores. If you are looking for a puppy make sure both the parents are PRA clear to avoid this potentially blinding condition. Lots of Golden Retrievers are overweight Sadly, due to inappropriate diets many Goldies weigh more than they should, which can adversely affect their health. One study found more than half of the Golden Retrievers seen in a veterinary clinic were significantly overweight. Good diets help keep Golden Retrievers healthy Dogs are at their fittest when they are the right weight. Keeping to a lower weight can even help improve the risk of cranial cruciate ligament disease. Here are some common Golden Retriever facts that in reality are just plain fiction. What is being described is usually a mixed breed with one Golden Retriever parent, and another of a breed that carries the gene for black fur. There is certainly appeal in that cute little package. At least not in the purebred dog world. Mini Goldens are either a Golden mix where one parent is from a smaller breed. Or occasionally one with the gene for dwarfism or bred from runts of the litter. In these last two examples you are best off avoiding them for health reasons. Golden Retrievers make great pets — Fact! For the right, active home, Golden Retrievers can make amazing pets. If you are thinking of bringing home a Golden Retriever puppy soon, then check out our helpful Goldie Puppy Guide here. Golden Retriever Facts and Fun Did you know them all already, or have you learned something new to share with your friends?