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Cancer Progressive Retinal Atrophy The primary recommendations we make when someone is shopping for Miniature Goldendoodles are fairly standard. Getting your dog the right amount of exercise and keeping them at a healthy weight can prevent many chronic problems and make them overall happier. In addition, taking your dog in for regular checkups, and to stay current on all shots and vaccinations, encourages health as well. One other reason that puppy parents trust Keystone Puppies when looking for Mini Goldendoodles for sale is that we make dog health our top priority! Not only do we only work with responsible breeders that prioritize healthy practices, but we also offer a no-hassle puppy health guarantee. Because they are bred to have the coat qualities of a Poodle, these pups are a popular option for owners looking to adopt a hypoallergenic dog. Their curly coat should be soft to the touch. The signature coat of pretty curls is one of the places where the Poodle ancestry truly shines through. To keep the coat looking its most beautiful, make sure to brush it two to four times per week. Not only is brushing a nice bonding experience for the pup and their person, but it also prevents tangling and matting. Owners can maintain a healthy Goldendoodle coat by bathing them every other month. Meet Mini Goldendoodles for Sale. If that describes your next ideal pet, then take a look at our Mini Goldendoodle puppies for sale! Known as a designer breed because it is a cross between a toy or miniature Poodle and a Golden Retriever, Mini Goldendoodles combine the best of both breeds. Mini Goldendoodle puppies have the friendliness and affection of Golden Retrievers combined with the intelligence and hypoallergic traits of Poodles. If you want a Mini Goldendoodle for your home, then purchase a Mini Goldendoodle puppy today! Click here to view our standard Goldendoodle puppies for sale or Mini Poodle puppies for sale. If you want to learn more about the general Goldendoodle breed, you can also read our Ultimate Guide to Goldendoodles. Friendly: Mini Goldendoodles love both humans and other animals. As a result, they do not make good guard dogs and sometimes get separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. Affectionate: Even though they are friendly to strangers, Mini Goldendoodles still have a special bond with their owners. They quickly become attached to people they spend a lot of time with, and they never tire of being with their owners and family. Small Size: Mini Goldendoodles are a smaller size and weight which makes them better suited for apartments and small homes. Sociable: Mini Goldendoodles love spending time with humans, and they play well with the family and children. No matter what the family is doing, Mini Goldendoodles want to be a part of the action! Trainable: With their friendly temperament and intelligence, Mini Goldendoodles are one of the easier breeds to train. They respond well to training that is done consistently and properly, and they soon become accustomed to house rules and expectations. Adaptable: Mini Goldendoodles can adapt well to different living environments, including apartments or houses with yards. However, they still require regular exercise and mental enrichment to thrive. They are quick learners and can excel in obedience training and various dog sports. In the mids, breeders began crossing Poodles with several breeds, the most popular being Labrador Retrievers and Cocker Spaniel. The resulting breeds, known as Labradoodles and Cockapoos, became popular in the United States, and especially among families. As a result, Golden Retrievers were bred with miniature and toy Poodles in the late s to create the Mini Goldendoodle breed. Mini Goldendoodles are still a relatively young breed, and many today are first-generation Mini Goldendoodles. As a result, the breed is not recognized by any major breed registry. While Mini Goldendoodles vary in size based on the size of the Poodle used, Mini Goldendoodles are an average inches in height at the shoulder and weigh pounds. Most Mini Goldendoodles live years. Because it is a hybrid breed, the exact coat markings and features do vary from puppy to puppy. However, most Mini Goldendoodles do favor the Poodle side of the breed and will often have the curlier, shorter hair of the Poodle. Even though they favor the coat of a Poodle, Mini Goldendoodles still require regular care and grooming. Their coats and skin usually create natural body oils, and this results in regular baths not being required unless the body is unnaturally dirty. Because they are still a young breed, not much is known specifically about the overall health of the Mini Goldendoodle breed. However, there are no known health risks, and if you choose a reputable breeder, your Mini Goldendoodle puppy should not have any significant health issues. Because of their long, floppy ears, it is also important to regularly check the ears for signs of infection. Whenever your Mini Goldendoodle gets wet, make sure the hair inside the ears completely dries out. Like all dogs, Mini Goldendoodles are susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia. Hip and elbow dysplasia occurs when the leg or hip becomes weakened, and it can result in arthritis or lameness if not addressed. One of the best ways to prevent this is by keeping your dog from excessive running on hard surfaces. This is especially vital when they are a puppy. While Mini Goldendoodles are popular for being more hypoallergenic than Golden Retrievers, it does not mean they are entirely allergen-free. Allergens are caused by dander, which is dead skin cells. These skin cells are shed by any animal, including humans. Mini Goldendoodles will typically shed less than standard Golden Retrievers, but this does not eliminate dander or allergens. If you have a family member with allergen concerns, it is always good to consult with your family physician. A Standard Goldendoodle weighs lbs, whereas a Mini Goldendoodles weighs lbs. There are also Medium Goldendoodles, which are in between Standard and Min. Is there such a thing as a Toy Goldendoodle? Toy Goldendoodles are just really small Mini Goldendoodles and weigh 20 lbs or less. There are also Teacup Goldendoodles, which weigh less than 13 lbs. Are Mini Goldendoodles nicer than Standard Goldendoodles? However, their small size makes Mini Goldendoodles more manageable for many families, especially those with small children. Are Goldendoodles recognized by any major breed industry? Since Goldendoodles are a mixed and relatively new breed, they are not recognized by any major breed industry. Many breed agencies, such as the American Kennel Club, do not recognize designer breeds - breeds when a Poodle is mixed with another breed. Are Mini Goldendoodles yappy? Not usually. Mini Goldendoodles are occasional barkers, but not incessant yappers. They will warn you if someone is at the door, though. Do Mini Goldendoodles have an odor? In general, Goldendoodles are low-odor dogs, a trait they inherit from their Poodle parents. If you keep your Mini Goldendoodle trimmed and clean him regularly, you shouldn't have too many issues with odors. Are Mini Goldendoodles hyper? Mini Goldendoodles are not hyperactive. However, they are moderately active dogs and need daily play and exercise. Puppies are usually more hyper than adult dogs. Are they hard to housetrain? Mini Goldendoodles are highly intelligent and are usually fairly easy to train. Are they high maintenance? Mini Goldendoodles are fairly low maintenance. However, they are moderately active, so they need daily exercise. Also, their coats mat easily, so they need regular brushing. Which is better to own: a male or female Mini Goldendoodle? Some say that male dogs tend to be more stable and less prone to emotional swings than female dogs. However, personality varies from individual to individual, and both male and female Mini Goldendoodles make great companions! Similar Breeds. Sept 14, Happy Thursday! Thanks so much for visiting our site! We think that our smaller golden doodles are the perfect family addition! We absolutely love the temperament of golden retrievers, but not so much the size and the shedding. Our goal is to give you a puppy with a great temperament, in a smaller size, without all of the shedding. We would love to help your family adopt one of our mini or toy Goldendoodles. We want to make this process as much fun as we can! Our deposits are refundable for any reason for up to two years. After 18 years of raising mini golden doodles, we have learned that the daily personal interaction with our dogs and the puppies, leads to a more well rounded and well adjusted puppy. We raise F1 mini doodles, F1b mini doodles and F1b toys. For those with more severe allergies, this may be the way to go. .Our minis average pounds and our toys average pounds full grown. You can visit our photo gallery to see pictures of our past and present puppies! There are hundreds and hundreds of pictures in the photo gallery so get comfortable!!! Reach out to us anytime! Our farms have lots of room to run and a creeks to play in! With our kids, our nieces and nephews and extended families, the puppies get lots of love, playtime and socialization. This allows them to be more well adjusted little puppies when they go to their new homes. We have Mini Goldendoodle Puppies Available! Sept 14, We have puppies!! Puppy Picks happen on the day that the puppies get to go home. This is so that families can better see the temperaments of the puppies, making it easier for them to choose the right puppy for their family. Some families are looking for a couch potato, some for a more active doodle to run or hike with. We will for sure help you during the picking process, whether in person or with FaceTime. Families can send a refundable deposit to hold their picking spot on a litter, then come on Puppy Pick Day to choose and take their puppy home. We post new photos in the photo gallery every weekend, so check that out! We wait until that day so that the puppies are old enough to be able to see their little personalities. The deposits are fully refundable for up to 2 years. If families would rather wait on a future litter… they will go on the waiting list. Your puppy can then be driven to you or we can meet you somewhere in between. We can also ship your puppy via American Airlines if the temperature is between 20 and 82 degrees, or we can recommend a flight nanny to fly with your puppy in cabin. You can of course remain on the waiting list longer than two years, if you want to keep passing on litters. .Be sure to contact us for our current pricing. Our mini goldendoodle puppies come with a 2 year health guarantee against genetic issues. Should something arise in those 2 years, we will cover the cost of treatment up to the cost of the puppy. We know that parting with a family member would be impossible… All this said, our mini golden doodles have been so incredibly healthy. Our vet is a HUGE fan of mini doodles. I post fun and exciting things…. You can like our Facebook page where lots of our families are posting great pictures and videos of their puppies in their new homes! There are links to Instagram, Twitter and Facebook at the top right corner of this page!! We welcome families to come visit our farm to meet us, the parents and of course the mini goldendoodle puppies. We love to show off how we raise our puppies and how our moms and dads live here, and they of course love meeting new people! Besides that, we know that getting a puppy is a huge deal and getting to see where they come from is very important! Be sure to visit our photo gallery to see hundreds of pictures of our puppies in their new home! You can see the different coats and colors of our puppies and who the parents are of each puppy. Knowing which of our earlier puppies you like helps us to know what you would like your puppy to look like. Be sure to like our Facebook page too! Mini Goldendoodles are highly intelligent, and loyal companions, their affectionate and gentle nature makes them some of the finest therapy dogs. When these pups grow up, they have moderate energy levels and love long walks and spending time with their family. Goldendoodle puppies shed very little and make an excellent choice for those with allergies. If you Googled this term and ended up here, you already know how popular this pup is. The adorable mix of Miniature Poodle and Golden Retriever offers countless positive traits that make these dogs ideal for first-time owners, the elderly, and parents with young children. Goldendoodle Mini puppies are a good breed for anyone looking for a medium to smaller-sized pet to add to their household. These dogs are affectionate, intelligent, caring, and low-shedding companions. Many people also love the Goldendoodle puppy because of their soft fur and willingness to cuddle. Before searching for "Mini Goldendoodles near me," it's important that you make sure it's a good match. As always, practicing responsible dog ownership is crucial before committing to a Mini Goldendoodle for sale. Let's examine the Mini Goldendoodle's characteristics, behaviors, training, and grooming requirements to determine whether this is the right dog for you. Characteristics The standard lifespan of a Mini Goldendoodle ranges from twelve to sixteen years. The popularity of this breed stems not only from its low-shedding characteristics translation: low-maintenance and less vacuuming! These dogs are typically a lovely golden blond and it's not uncommon to find streaks of white on the head and chest. You can find a Mini Goldendoodle for sale in darker colors as well, like caramel, dark brown, and black. Incredibly cute and always friendly, a Mini Goldendoodle is an excellent choice for any household. Activity Level Looking for mini doodles for sale will mean committing to a moderately active lifestyle. Don't let this dog's small size fool you — it will follow your every move! If you purchase a Mini Goldendoodle for sale, you will have a constant companion that loves to play fetch, be chased, or just run when those zoomies hit. Expect to dedicate at least an hour of exercise for this dog daily. Since their breeding originates from two water dog breeds, Mini Goldendoodles enjoy the water, so taking them to the pool, lake, or beach will always be a hit. Disposition Opting for Mini Goldendoodles for sale is the perfect choice if you're looking for a sweet, mild-mannered, social pup. These dogs are people-oriented, love attention, and seek a lot of interaction from their owners. Get ready for lots of cuddling — they'll do anything for a belly rub! Miniature Goldendoodles are also great additions to homes that already have pets. These dogs love the companionship of other dogs as much as humans. When properly socialized from a young age, Mini Goldendoodles can even be taught to get along with cats! Training Miniature Goldendoodles are highly trainable thanks to their intelligence and desire to please. It is not uncommon for them to master new commands in just a few sessions assuming you have enough treats on hand. The main challenge of training these dogs is that they are high-energy, easily excitable, and struggle to focus for long. Maintaining short training sessions will help your dog to reach its full potential. Positive reinforcement training is by far the most effective training method for ensuring your dog is disciplined and well-behaved. Grooming Requirements As a poodle mix, this breed requires a little more hair care than most other dogs. While they're famous for low-shedding, that doesn't mean their coat doesn't need maintenance. Regularly brushing your pup's curls is essential for preventing their fur from becoming tangled and matted. It's best to brush your dog at least three times per week using a metal pin brush. The Mini Goldendoodle also has fast-growing fur. For this reason, consider taking the dog to a professional groomer every two to three months. The work of a professional also makes home grooming far less taxing. These dogs tend not to have that distinct "doggy odor" native to other breeds. However, just because your Mini Goldendoodle doesn't smell doesn't mean it doesn't need a bath. You should still regularly bathe your dog to avoid bacteria buildup and infections, and don't forget to check those ears. Why Pawrade? Finding a reputable breeder has never been easier When you search "Mini Goldendoodles for sale near me," you want to know that you're partnering with an ethical breeder. Pawrade is the online marketplace you can trust for seeking out traditional and cross-bred dogs. We ensure that all our breeders are legitimate and that any dog sold is properly cared for and in good health. Above all, Pawrade is about finding forever homes for lovable pups who deserve a loving family. Our goal is to provide a platform where mini Goldendoodles for sale are paired with their perfect doggy parent. If you're ready to make a new addition to the family, choose Pawrade. Stop searching "Mini Goldendoodle for sale near me," you've found the perfect place! We understand just how difficult it is to find a legitimate breeder, so we've put our experience and expertise to work for you. Why wait any longer? Browse through our vast selection of puppies for sale from a safe and reputable source. No Puppy Mill Pledge We have zero tolerance toward puppy mills and pride ourselves in connecting you with honest and reputable breeders where puppies are raised with love and compassion. Learn More Health Guarantee As fellow puppy owners, we know the importance of having a happy and healthy puppy. Every puppy is backed by our comprehensive health guarantee. 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 East Aurora New York 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! Life Span Did You Know? Although this breed is very popular, it is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club. As long as they are well-socialized, Miniature Goldendoodles tend to make excellent family companions. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although they will alert you of strangers at the door, they tend to warm up quickly as they are more interested in making friends and receiving attention. Mini Goldendoodles are highly adaptable dogs. Their smaller size makes them a great fit for apartment living or for bigger homes with yards where they can run. As long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention, they can adapt well. These little dogs tend to do well in just about any climate. However, like any dog, they are sensitive to heat. Due to their smaller size, you may need to gear up with some dog-friendly winter gear when temperatures start falling. Because this dog breed is loyal and people-oriented, they love to be in your company and do not like being left alone for long periods of time. This means they can be prone to developing separation anxiety if you do not work with them on it early on. Instead, make sure your new Mini Goldendoodle puppy has an active role in your life. If you do need to leave them alone for a bit, make sure they have some comforting toys or challenging puzzles to keep them from getting bored. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests and clearances that have been done. The Mini Goldendoodles is a highly intelligent dog that picks up on things quickly and is eager to please. They tend to be sensitive to tone of voice as well. As long as training is consistent and focused on positive praise and reward, a Mini Goldendoodle will strive to be obedient and impress you and tends to excel at almost any task. These traits make the Mini Goldendoodle one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Daily brushing is recommended to remove tangles and prevent mats. Bathing is occasional and can often be relegated to the dog groomer that is recommended you visit every weeks. The groomer can help handle some of this during visits, but you will still need to do some maintenance at home between visits. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed help prevent ear infections. Daily brushing, plus cleanings at the vet as needed, is good dental care for dogs and can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Although the parents of this breed have a lot of energy, a Mini Goldendoodle tends to sit in a more moderate activity range. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are usually enough for them. But, they are also likely to match their energy level to yours, so be prepared for some bursts of energy as well as plenty of cuddling on the couch. Fully-grown Mini Goldendoodles usually stand inches tall at the shoulder. A Miniature Goldendoodle puppy can vary in size based on the generation of the dog. The result is generally a dog that will range from pounds. Looking at the size of the parents for an F1 or F1-B puppy can be a good indication of what size to expect in a fully-grown Miniature Goldendoodle. Mini Goldendoodles generally live for years on average. Featured Mini Goldendoodle Article. 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 Albany New York 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! We offer a personal touch to breeding and raising our puppies, ensuring that every customer feels like a part of our family. If you have any questions or concerns, we are just a phone call, text, or email away. About Our Miniature Goldendoodles Our Miniature Goldendoodles are an exceptional hybrid breed, resulting from a purebred Golden Retriever and a miniature poodle cross. At maturity, they typically average 25 lbs. Our mini puppies embody the best characteristics of their parent breeds, including the amiable temperament of the Golden Retriever and the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the miniature poodle, making them ideal allergy-friendly pets. While our puppies are generally low shedding, some shedding may occur when the puppy coat transitions into the adult coat. Our female, Paislee, has abstract pups. Our puppies are wormed at weeks 4, 5, and 6 and receive their first puppy vaccine at 6 weeks. Before leaving our possession, each puppy undergoes a veterinary check to ensure their health. If any issues are detected, we will assist you in moving your deposit to another litter, if you choose to do so. If you wish to purchase a puppy for the purpose of breeding multiple litters, the cost is double the pet price. Our Happy Clients Our puppies have found loving homes all across the country. Take a look at the map below to see where our Mini Goldendoodle puppies have been placed and join our community of happy puppy owners! We got our mini golden doodle here and had a great experience. Neely was amazing and so helpful in answering all my questions. Highly recommended! They have been more wonderful than we could have ever imagined. They are the sweetest and smartest puppies ever! I highly recommend Cheryl at Walters Mini Golden Doodles if you are looking for the perfect addition to your family! The team would send me weekly updates and provided the 1st round of vaccines for us. I would recommend using this breeder and would purchase another puppy from them again! This is Benny, whose parents were Mars and Bella. He just turned 2 in April and weighs 37lbs. I would highly recommend her services. We had the opportunity to bring our precious little puppy home on .Teddi Belle is such a joy to have and our family is blessed to add her to our addition. First, and all subsequent vet check-ups were excellent. Our niece has also purchased a Mini Goldendoodle from Walters and is experiencing similar enjoyment. I would recommend this breeder to anyone who asks me. Do not hesitate to consider Walters Mini Golden doodles as your breeder. We are here to help make your forever home complete with a happy and healthy Miniature Goldendoodle puppy.

First and foremost, you want to give your dog or puppy something safe. Otherwise, it can be unhealthy for them or even worse, dangerous. If you follow the tips listed below, it should help you find something perfect for them in the end. As tempting as it may be, never give your dog bones that are cooked. When considering store-bought bones for your dog, you should check with your vet first to make sure they are the right ones after all. If you choose rawhide bones, make sure there are no additives, preservatives, gelatin, or artificial sweeteners. Make sure the bones are all-natural. Feel free to give your dogs raw bones made of chicken, lamb, turkey, or beef. You should always give your dog a bone only after a meal, and your dog should never be given pork or rib bones. Finally, always give your dog a bone that is longer than its muzzle to make extra-sure your dog is safe. These bones are perfect for German shepherds because they are durable, safe, and last a long time. They also come in a variety of flavors that will keep your dog coming back for more. Related Questions 1. Can German Shepherds Chew on Bones? Yes, and the best bones for German shepherd dogs and puppies are either natural or synthetic bone chews. Can Dogs Digest Cooked Bones? Not really. Only give dogs raw bones and not cooked because they are both easier to swallow and easier to digest. Ideally, dogs should not get more than one to two bones per week, and you should always allow a few days in between each feeding just to be extra-safe. If you have any questions or concerns, always feel free to consult with your vet before providing bones to your dog. Why Trust Us? At TrainYourGsd. Related posts:. German Shepherds love to chew on bones but there are some dangers associated with this popular canine pastime. Giving your dog the right bone will lead to many happy hours of chewing. Make sure you know the differences so you can avoid any possible mishaps. The Best Bones For German Shepherd are large uncooked beef or lamb shank bones that are bigger than their mouth so that they are unable to swallow it whole. Because of their softness, they have a tendency to splinter while your dog is chewing on them. This can cause serious injuries to the digestive tract, mouth and throat. This article will answer some common questions people have about bones, some misconceptions and of course a list of our favorite bones for your German Shepherd. We will also tell you what to do if the worst case scenario happens and your precious pup swallows a bone. Is it safe to give your German Shepherd bones? Giving your German Shepherd a bone can be safe if you take the proper precautions. However anytime you give a dog a bone there is a risk involved. Here are the risks of giving your German Shepherd a bone: Blockage Fragments of bone can become stuck in the small intestines resulting in a blockage. Surgery may be required to remove them. They can also pierce the wall of the intestine causing Peritonitis. Parts of the bone can also make there way all the way down the GI tract to the large colon. They can collect there, causing constipation and severe discomfort. The resulting trauma can cause bleeding in the rectal area. The vet may have to use an enema or manipulate the bowel to remove the fragments. Bone stuck in the stomach If a piece of bone is too large, it may be unable to make its way out of the stomach. This can result in abdominal surgery or an endoscopy to remove the bone fragment. This can cause an infection referred to as Peritonitis which can be fatal. Cracked Teeth Dogs can crack their teeth chewing on a hard bone such as a store bought cooked bone. This can lead to costly dental bills from the resulting extraction or even possible root canal needed to fix the tooth. Not to mention the pain it will cause your dog. Mouth and tongue injuries When a piece of the bone breaks off into the dogs mouth, it can be super sharp, cutting the roof of the mouth or piercing the tongue and cheek. Obstruction of the airway A bone that is too small can get lodged or stuck in the dogs esophagus causing them to choke. Pieces or shards of the bone can also get stuck in the trachea making it hard for your dog to breathe. Raw bones can be contaminated While raw bones are by far the safest choice, they can be contaminated with certain dangerous pathogens. When it gets stuck behind the lower canine teeth, it is very tough to get dislodged. Sometimes the only remedy is a trip to the Emergency Vet where your dog might need to be sedated or anesthetized to remove it. What are the benefits of giving my German Shepherd a raw bone? Although this topic is highly debated in the dog world, there are benefits to giving your dog a raw bone. You must decide for yourself if the benefits outweigh the risks. I personally think they do. Here are some of the benefits that your dog will get from a raw bone. Clean Teeth A raw bone is a great substitute for brushing your pooches toothy trains. Chewing on the bone helps stimulate the saliva enzymes and helps get rid of any food trapped in your dogs teeth. It also prevents the build up of tarter and keeps the teeth healthy and clean. This will help to avoid any trips to the vet for extractions or scaling of the teeth. Ten to twenty minutes of chewing after a meal should do the trick. Helps dog avoid bad chewing habits A nice raw bone can be a great way to distract your dog from any bad or unwanted chewing habits. Some dogs have a habit of chewing on clothing, furniture, socks. A bone will keep there attention and hopefully prevent them from any negative chewing habits. They contain calcium phosphate which can be up to four times easier for your dog to digest verses other common calcium supplements. Raw bones are excellent for larger breed dogs such as the German Shepherd. Because of their quick growth, they need the extra calcium for their large skeletal system. The best types of raw bones to give your dog: Frozen raw bones Freezing bones before giving them to your dog is a great way to slow down their chewing and digestion. Large raw bones The size of the bone will depend on the size of the dog but in general you want to give your dog large raw bones that are bigger than their head and a greater length than their muzzle. A German Shepherd for example, will require something large such as a lamb breast or a turkey neck. Meaty raw bones Raw bones with plenty of meat on them are the best for your dog. You want to have a good balance of meat to bone. Excess bone without the meat can cause constipation. If the bone is a little bare, some additional meat on the side will help even things out. Bones to avoid giving your dog: Antlers Avoid any types of antlers. They are too hard for your dog and can wreak havoc on their teeth causing injuries. Bones that are cut up into small pieces This would include knuckle bones and ox-tail bones that have been cut. Cooked bones Cooked bones that you buy from the store are the worst choice. The softness of these bones can lead to splintering which can cause injuries. Rawhide Bones Stay away from these bones as they are a choking risk. The rawhide can get soft after your dog chews on it for awhile. Because of this, your dog can easily tear off big chunks which can be swallowed if unsupervised. Small bones Smaller bones are a choking hazard. Stay away from chicken, pork or rib bones which are common but unfortunately dangerous. They are more prone to splinter causing damage to your dogs mouth. Tips for giving your dog a bone: Avoid bones that have been cut the length of the bone. Bones that have been cute the entire length of the bone are more likely to splinter and have sharp edges. Avoid giving bones with marrow to dogs with Pancreatitis. Instead try giving them an alternative. Avoid giving bones to dogs with previous dental work. Dogs that have had any teeth restored are in danger of braking those teeth. You are better off not giving them a bone. Instead give them a safe alternative. Freeze bones when they are not being used. Keep the bones in the freezer when they are not being used. It will help avoid contamination and help slow down the time it takes for your dog to chew a bone. Give your dog a bone following a meal. Let your dog finish their dinner. Then throw them their favorite bone. It should slow down the aggressiveness of their chewing lessening the chance of them swallowing part of the bone. Never leave your dog unsupervised with any bone. They can chew for too long and the bone can become small enough for your dog to swallow. They can also bite off pieces that can become stuck in their throat or pierce the inside of their mouth. Ten to twenty minutes is a sufficient amount of time for your dog to chew its bone. Throw away bones when they get old or worn down. Once a dog chews on a bone for a long period, it becomes more brittle with more chance of splintering. Throw it out and get a new bone. Bone powder as an alternative: If you are concerned about the repercussions of giving your dog a raw bone, you can grind them down into a powder and sprinkle it on their food. They will get the benefits of the minerals and nutrients without the risks we discussed earlier in the article. The calcium phosphate alone is enough to make the whole process worth it. Keep in mind, your dog will miss the benefits of chewing which can include healthier teeth and less anxiety and stress. Best coarse of action if your German Shepherd swallows a bone: Dogs love to chew and they love to eat. This can often times lead to your dog swallowing part of a bone and sometimes even the whole bone if is too small. You will definitely want to keep a close eye on your pooch when they are chewing on their favorite bone. According to Dr. Most of the time, the bone simply dissolves. He recommends staying away from large beef vertebrae especially from the butcher. Dogs have a tendency to want to swallow it since it is hard to break into smaller bits. It then can become stuck in the lower esophagus in the chest resulting in possible surgery to remove the bone. If he is and you can locate the bone in his mouth, try to safely remove the bone and clear the airway. If you cannot do this safely, take your dog to the veterinarian immediately. The second step to take, if your dog swallows a bone and seems fine, is to contact your veterinarian and ask them what to do. The size of the bone swallowed will determine the best course of action. On rare occasions your vet may decide that surgery is necessary to remove the bone. Step three is to wait and monitor your dog. If your dog becomes sick after swallowing the bone and starts to vomit, call the veterinarian immediately and try to take them in as soon as possible to get checked. Symptoms to look out for: Abnormal movements Blood in their stool or diarrhea Constipation. After all, bones provide numerous benefits including providing calcium and phosphorus, help to keep teeth and jaws healthy, and are good to relieve boredom, stress, and anxiety. Check out the list below to see the common misconceptions that people have about dogs eating bones. Never feed your dog sharp, small, cooked, pork, or rib bones. Only bones from home are safe, in most cases. In any case, bones should be disposed of after a couple of days as bacteria will form. Not all dogs can chew on bones. Many German Shepherds have poor or weakened teeth. Whether they have tooth decay, exposed enamel, or gum disease, chewing on a bone can cause instant sharp pain for your dog. Rubber or plastic bones are a safe alternative for dogs to chew on. They can be equally as dangerous as splintered bones, so choose wisely. You can see below my recommendations. Now that you know what to avoid, you can find good bones that fit within the healthy parameters from the previous section. Here are the five risks of feeding cooked bones to your German Shepherd: When bones splinter, it acts like glass. Choking is another common risk of eating cooked bones. If your German Shepherd is chewing on a bone, a piece can easily break off and go down his throat. Bones are incredibly dense, which is why they can lead to blockages when consumed. If your German Shepherd manages to swallow a piece of a cooked bone, it can get lodged in their digestive tract and cause a blockage. Sometimes, the only way to remove it is to pay for surgery. Some German Shepherds are sensitive to bone marrow, which becomes easily exposed from chewing on cooked bones. If your GSD has a sensitive stomach , then ingesting too much bone marrow could cause sickness and diarrhea as it is too rich and high in fat. Loose teeth can become shattered or ripped from their roots. Raw Bones vs. Chew Toys for German Shepherds Large raw bones are typically a safe choice for your German Shepherd to chew on, as are most chew store-bought bones. If you pulled them from a large animal, most big bones are the perfect size for German Shepherds. Raw bones should be big enough to prevent your dog from swallowing them whole. On the contrary, your GSD will get a nutritional boost from the raw bone from the calcium and phosphorus. Cons of Raw Bones You have to be very precise when choosing a raw bone for your dog. Bone marrow can cause all sorts of stomach issues if your dog is prone to tummy upsets. Supervision is necessary. Pros of Chew Toys Bones Convenient and easy to find. They allow you to continue to provide bones for your dog without requiring you to buy raw meat. Plastic bones last much longer than raw bones. If you choose a heavy-duty plastic bone, such as the Nylabone mentioned above, then your German Shepherd will be able to enjoy it for quite some time, and they also come in a range of flavors. Your dog will have to enjoy the task of chewing without being able to gnaw away at delicious raw meaty bits. Choose a flavored chew bone for your dog. The Benebone Real Flavor Wishbone is a hot choice for thousands of pet owners. The wishbone shape is ideal for dogs to grip and hold. It lasts seemingly forever, and the flavor stays around, unlike some chew toys. You can choose from chicken, bacon, or peanut. They can cause cracked teeth and other dental injuries. When the rawhide becomes soft it becomes easy for your GSD to break chunks off and swallow them. Puppies have delicate teeth and jaws, so they need softer bones that are easier to chew and digest. Here are some good options for German Shepherd puppies: Raw chicken necks or wings: These bones are small, soft, and easy to chew. They also contain cartilage and connective tissue, which can be beneficial for joint health. Raw beef marrow bones: These bones are larger and harder than chicken necks or ribs, but they contain a lot of nutrients and can be a good option for teething puppies. Additionally, any bone should be given under supervision and taken away once it becomes small enough to swallow whole. In this case, you will need to monitor them and keep an eye on their stools. However, if your GSD has accidentally eaten a cooked bone such as a rib or small chicken bone and they swallow a splinter, then you should take your dog to the vet immediately. Signs of intestinal obstruction include vomiting, lethargy, a painful tummy, and having no desire to eat. The sooner you can have your vet take a look, the sooner your dog will be safe. Note: Always watch puppies when they chew bones. They might literally bite off more than they can chew, so you need to be there to remove anything sharp or too small for their mouth. Final Thoughts German Shepherds love meaty bones just as much as any dog. As long as you follow the safety suggestions found in this post you can safely let them enjoy a good chew. Choose large raw bones bigger than their muzzle. Raw beef or lamb shank bones are a good choice. Supervise your dog at all times. There are many good alternative chew bones. Related Posts You May Like:. Benebone Puppy Chew Toy Check it out! Our Buying Guide Hey there, so you are looking for the best chew toy for your German Shepherd, and you want to make sure you pick the right one? You are in the right section. Here, we talk about different chew toys for GSDs and include some things you need to consider before clicking the buy button. Material Type Rubber: This is one of the safest and non-toxic materials used to produce chew toys for dogs. While rubber might seem indestructible, some dogs have been able to chew through them. A high-quality rubber chew toy would last longer than cheaply made ones. Rope: Rope or Jute is another material type you should expect to see. This kind might not last up to a month if you have an aggressive chewer at home. However, they are perfect for playing tug of war with your dog. Nylon chew toys usually have flavors that dogs like; most GSDs would find nylon chew toys irresistible. You should consider buying a very durable product that your dog would have a hard time destroying. It is built specifically for large breeds and aggressive chewers. Not all rubbers are safe! Being a die-hard dog lover, I have seen some breeds ignore some products due to their weight. A money-back guarantee policy ensures that you get a better replacement or a refund in case of a mishap. Dogs love to munch on almost everything, but not all might be safe. If you have a German Shepherd obsessed with chewing, you should get a chew toy for them. At what age do German shepherds stop chewing? Research has shown that German Shepherds stop chewing at months; however, some GSDs might retain the chewing habit after the time. How do you stop destructive chewing? Destructive chewing can be a big problem. One way to stop it is to give your dog plenty of exercises that will fend off boredom. How to Make the Right Selection The first step to making the proper selection is to check out the buying guide section above; we covered most of the primary things to help you make the appropriate choice. Feel free to read through again before deciding on which product would be best for your German Shepherd. You may also enjoy reading:. Buy on Amazon Rawhide bones are another popular type of chew bone, and they offer several advantages over natural bone. First and foremost, rawhide is a lot cheaper. When we compare that to our winner a natural bone product , we see that it only offers 8 bones for about the same price. Thus, this product offers good value. Rawhide also tends to last a lot longer than natural bone, as it cannot be so easily crunched and swallowed. That makes it great for those times when you have to be gone for a while. These bones are not exactly edible, but they can be digested with little trouble. We like the fact that this product contains no additives or chemicals. If the advertising is to be believed, this is just pure rawhide and nothing else. Without any kind of binding agent, these rolls tend to come unrolled pretty easily. The dog can still chew them at that point, but there is a much bigger chance of choking when all those thin shreds come into the picture. Alternate Product 2: Devil Dog Antler Chew Pros Harder and stronger than ordinary bones No mess or odor Sourced from wild elk with no cruelty Perfect for aggressive chewers Rough texture helps to naturally clean teeth Cons Kind of expensive A lot of natural variation Buy on Amazon At this point, you might be wondering why we included an antler on our list. You may not know this, but antlers are made of bone. Antlers and other horns are a little different from structural bones, being harder and stronger than most. If you are dealing with a dedicated chewer who shreds normal toys in a matter of hours, this might be just the solution you need. FAQ Dog bones are not a particularly complex subject, so you should now have a good grasp of the things you need to know. Selecting the right bone is just a matter of balancing all the relevant factors and choosing the product that suits your needs. The answer to this question will depend on what you mean. If you mean a literal bone from an animal, then the answer is yes. In the wild, it is perfectly natural for canines to eat bones. It represents an important source of calcium, and the marrow provides all kinds of nourishment. None of that applies to bones made of synthetic materials like nylon or plastic. Treat bones, of course, are meant to be eaten. If you can afford to get your dog natural chew bones, that is probably the best option. While there is nothing wrong with the other choices on our list, natural bones are the safest bet. Dogs have been gnawing on these things since the dawn of time, so why try to change them now? At the same time, you should realize that natural chew bones are a lot more expensive. To be honest, all chew toys present at least some hazard of choking. If a dog swallows large pieces of rawhide, it can create an intestinal blockage that might require surgery to remove. We will discuss their pros and cons and give general recommendations about each type. Natural Bones This is the ideal choice, but a lot of people cannot afford them. On the upside, not all of them are so expensive. We might look at our best value product as an example of a low-cost natural bone. The main benefit of natural bones is the fact that they provide extra nutrition to your dog. Between the calcium in the bone itself and the nutrients in the marrow, this is almost as nourishing as a meal. Of course, there are some issues here. Natural bones are usually roasted before being put on sale, and this can make them very brittle. In some cases, this can lead to splintering as the dog chews, and that can be dangerous. Thus, we would recommend that you avoid natural bone products that seem excessively dry and brittle. Nylon Bones Nylon bones offer some definite advantages, but they do have one big problem: They are non-digestible. Because of that fact, nylon bones will always present the danger of intestinal blockage. These bones also tend to be harder than most, meaning that they are best suited for large dogs. On the upside, nylon bones will usually last a lot longer than most others. When they do break, they tend to break into large pieces. Still, we would recommend that you not allow your dog to use nylon bones unless you are there to supervise. These are generally molded from a mix of substances that dogs like. Meat by-products make up the majority of their bulk, but vegetable material is also usually present. Contrary to popular belief, dogs are not strict carnivores but are more like omnivores who prefer meat. Like all treats, these are not designed to serve as a primary food source. They are a lot richer in fat than most kibble, so they could cause your dog to gain weight after too many of them. Rawhide Bones These are probably the cheapest and most common chew bones, and there are reasons that many people prefer them. Rawhide is a relatively safe material, as dogs can eat a fairly large amount of it without issue. We have already talked about the dangers of this material, as it can cause various problems if your dog eats too big of a piece. Statistically, the chance of your dog being harmed by rawhide is pretty small. That being said, we would recommend that you stick with the small chews, just to stay on the safe side. Dog bones are generally not complicated, but we have tried our best to educate you as to the finer points of the subject. Even if you use natural bone, this risk is still present. If we have succeeded in that goal, we hope that you will leave a comment below. Recommended reading. Luckily, the options and quality of bones available are many that you can choose your pick from. What to choose in bones? Well, reconsider your options. The bone splinters that chip away when the dog tries to chew on it, can cause choking, the sharpness of broken bones can cause lacerations in their mouths and all the other innards. Why put your only loyal companion you may have in this entire world through so much misery in the name of feeding him? If not, then what? Doggy biscuits? May be. And also treats that looks like bones, tastes like bones, are twice as nutritious and thrice as safe! Cooked Bones for German Shepherds Cooked bones are simple to shatter after swallowing, and dogs have even perished from gnawing on them. Since they are simpler to ingest and digest, they give dogs raw bones. Cooked bone should never be fed since they can shatter and cause harm. Watchdogs when they consume raw bones. When giving raw bones to dog friends, keep them apart. Avoid using big, heavy bones that could break teeth or become hooked in jaws. The bones should be larger than their muzzle to prevent them from swallowing it whole. Do not feed cooked bones to your German Shepherds. Remove small pieces of raw, broken bones. Never feed cooked bones, as they are dangerous for your dog. Supervise dogs while they eat raw bones. Separate dog friends when offering raw bones. Stay away from large weight-bearing bones that can break teeth, get caught in jaws, etc. Antlers have become more popular, but more and more dental injuries are reported. Pork and rib bones are the bones most likely to splinter. Raw bones are much healthier and safer for them to swallow. You should give one to two raw bones weekly and wait a few days between the next serving. Rib Bones for German Shepherds Pork and rib bones are the bones most likely to splinter. You can feed your German Shepherds two types of bones: edible and recreational. Avoid chicken, pork, or rib bones, which are common but dangerous. The 10 best dog bones available on the internet. Choose your pick. Shaped like an antler, made of real bison, this delicious, for dogs treat comes in varying sizes, making this dog bone treat suitable for dogs of different sizes, built and age. Nylabone offers sizes from small to medium and large. Small is for dogs weighing up to 20lbs, medium for up to 35lbs and large for larger dogs weighing a whopping 50lbs! The product act in compliance with the nutritional values set by The Associationof American Feed Control Officials and has no artificial and hard to pronounce chemicals, flavors, preservatives and colors. With its high durability, Nylabone lasts long, making your dog feel satiated for long reducing the risk of your furniture and favorite hugging pillows to be their chew toys instead. Cons For something that is famous, for obvious reasons, Nylabone Healthy Edible Wild Dog treats faces a common nemesis as is with everything famous and in demand. That being counterfeit products, copying from the name to physical feature and even taste. The quality and health benefits that are associated with the real thing is just not the same. So, Be Wary! As the name suggests, these are made of only one ingredient which is good-ol cow bones. It is made in the USA and the bones come from cows that have been fed on grass and all things organic. There is a bit of meat on the bones which has been roasted so the meat on cooked bones does not go bad. Because of its durability, it is especially suitable for aggressive chewers and the dogs can go chewing it for days, taking breaks only to get back to it without losing interest. Though, due to its roasting, the bones could have got brittle, causing bigger dogs like German Shepherds to chew these down to smithereens. It has no funny and processed ingredients making K9 Connoisseur a little more costly options in dog bones. But then, what is a little extra money when it comes to feeding your dog the best organic options in dog treats. Due to the superior quality and amount of protein in it, K9 Connoisseur is an excellent food source for your canine that is training too hard to be worthy of your company, keeping it strong, healthy, muscular and agile. Pros With the absence of anything rawhide it is the untanned skin of an animal which is prone to get infected if not exposed to the sun for a specific time period , it is healthy for your dog and so safe. The size and the close-pack packaging it comes in, makes it pantry friendly and easy to store. Cons Sometimes because of over exposure to heat, faulty packaging or shipping issues, splinters may come off the bone creating choking hazard for your furry companion. Antlers have a reputation of being the most wholesome of dog foods out there, owing to its resistance to splintering. In comparison with rawhides, antler dog chews are not dangerous, giving you the peace of mind to just throw your dog the raw bone, and be done with it sometimes you just need that kind of assurance. .Like other things, namely Bully sticks and pigs, antler dog chews are not stinky and are very clean, providing yet one more nutritional pleasantry. Pros The tough exterior of the Elk Antler gives the dog a good gnawing, keeping the teeth safe with the absence of funny chemicals and additives. Enriched with calcium and minerals and no fat and additional calories, Elk Antlers makes it a healthy option against many bone-based food options in the market. Cons While Elk Antler are safer for your dogs, be mindful about ordering the whole antler instead of the ones that come in split form. Though your dog will enjoy the exposed marrow that fills the length of the split, it does make it dangerous for your dog because of easy splintering. A visit to the ER and sometimes surgery just adds to the cost. The price tag that grace the Elk Antlers is off putting which may sway many potential buyers in other product directions. When it comes to producing dog treats, Milk Bone ranks amongst one of the most trusted dog food brands. More than any other dog food, especially a bone to be chewed, Original Dog Treat biscuits are treats that you give your dog for behaving itself. Due to its crunchy texture, younger dogs enjoy these more than the older ones. Milk Bone has gone over the board in fortifying their nutritional value by packing 12 vitamins and minerals in theses treats. Milk Bone packs over a hundred treats in a 10 pound package which gives it a crazy, wholesale-like charm of wanting to buy it in bulks. Pros Vet approved, these Milk Bone Original Dog Treat Biscuits, keep the tartar build up at bay and nourishing your adorable woofer with 12 additional vitamins. The nourishment level saves the pickiest eaters from becoming malnourished. Vitamin B in the formulae helps energize the metabolism and help nourish the nervous system. Changing the packaging and zip locking the treats in something safer have still given birth to these bugs which is frustrating for obvious reasons. For best taste, quality and conserving, these bones are roasted with a little meat still clinging to the bones. In case your pooch has any gluten allergies, or not, feel free to give them these chews as they also come free of wheat, soy and corn. Not a bad deal at all, right? Pros In general, these bones are considered safe. These have been known to help dental health, satisfy chewing urges making your furniture safe and whole. Cons Some dog parents are not happy with the origin of these bones. Some of the dog parents have complained that there is dry meat on the bone which, if your dog is a particularly aggressive chewer, it can demolish it pretty quick. Some dogs have swallowed the shattered bones too, whereas as these treats are supposed to withstand aggressive chewers. This particularly risk the canines breaking, indigestion and sometimes death in extreme cases. Of all the dog chews on the list so far, this one is an usual but delicious one. These chew sticks are non-edible, made of nylon and taste like peanut butter. The more your dog chews on it, the more peanut butter flavor and aroma it gives off. If your dog has destructive qualities because he is bored or just because he is naturally rude, keep these toothsomes around in case you feel like your pooch is going rogue. Non-edible treats like these acts as particularly bad-ass toothbrushes for your dogs, i mean good enough to get plaque and other built up off of their teeth. After all, the flavor and aroma increases for some reason the more a dog chews on it. The end, certainly justify the means. Pros It has no rawhide, is affordable and is made of real peanut butter. The dogs clearly find these delicious even the crankiest lot. Cons For some dogs the relatively synthetic formula makes it very hard for some dogs to chew on it. This also make it very unappetizing for many dogs to even go near the Pet Qwerts Bark Bones, says some of the buyers. Unless you are very sure that your dogs would want these, do not make a bad choice in choosing these for your picky pets. Except for the change in flavor profile, there is no other prominent difference. These are nontoxic and hypoallergenic make it chew safe for your dog. Pros The curvy shape of the bone makes it easier for the dog to pick and hold it in their mouth even if they are running. These are unbreakable, even with excessive chewing and dropping hard. Imagine the dog swallowing the sharp bits incase they manage to dislodge even a scrape! Awww cute! Your cute little pooch would look even more cute holding it in its paws, chewing angrily on it like a hungry cutesy baby, fighting over his own thumb, sucking aggressively, expecting it to magically sprout a milk fountain! Benebone, the brand proudly acknowledges its proud USA sourcing of top quality ingredients for superior taste and smell, that is fused into the toy. Be careful to replace the Dog Chew Toy when you deem fit or according to the instructions on the package. Pros A lot of dog parents are happy with Benebone and have reported their pets being very happy chewing on them. The easy grip is another advantage. The product is worth the price. Cons For some dogs, these toys have caused them broken teeth. In some cases the damage has been permanent as the dogs have lost teeth permanently, causing severe distress to the dogs as well as its parents. This one is yet another no brainer. As to, why we chose it to be in the top nine of the food chain? Resultantly, the Mammoth Femur Bone Dog Treat tastes better and is choke-full of nutrition, in a good way of course. Because of the health complications associated with packing, storing and shipping raw meat, the femur is roasted slowly which cooks the meat and the bone just enough to give the treat shelf longevity as well as making it safe for your dog to joyfully chew on and be merry. The way it is cooked, ensures any kind of bacterial contamination to be killed, making the Mammoth Femur Bone to be healthy and safe for consumption. The teeth stay healthy and clean and the gums and jaws sufficiently stimulated. With the size of the treat, it is ideal for medium to larger dog kind. Pros These bones are easy to digest , delicious and conveniently packed. Cons Despite being very expensive a trait that a customer naturally associates with good quality and value , the Mammoth Femur Bone has not lasted long. Puppies stat teething between 6 weeks and 6 months of their life. So keeping chewing stick with your baby dog love you more than you can imagine. This makes their gums itch which is why they would want to sink their rapidly falling teeth into anything they could find. This includes your feet, hands, clothes, rugs and everything else endangering your pup with infections and the like. N-Bone Puppy Teething Treats are a better choice thank your ankles when you want to keep them occupied with something safe. Its all natural and preservative free formulae makes it safe for your still very vulnerable dog. The taste makes it palatable for most of the pups without any odors making its presence around the house a no hassle. Cons Because it is very soft, many pups have bit pieces off of these treats making it not very durable. Well, I have given mine, listing 10 of the highest rated Dog Bone Chews. As a responsible dog-parent, it is up you to do your research and chose the best treat that your dog-friend is so worth of. Good luck. Frequently Asked Questions What are the misconceptions about why dogs love chewing bones? There are a lot of misconceptions and theories when it comes to bone snack, but in matter of fact dogs raw bones are safe snack when given in proper supervision. Bones not only help in filling phosphorus and calcium along with that it is a great exercise for jaws, some studies suggest that it can help dogs relieve anxiety and stress so feel free to give your dog a yummy snack. Can German shepherds chew on bones? German shepherds can absolutely chew on bones under correct supervision, swallowing them can cause health issues, for the safe side let your dog throw away the bone when it had enough chewing marks. Can my dog eat bones? Yes dogs can eat bones to stay healthy and to help their brain stimulate better. It is a great source of phosphorus and calcium. How often it is safe to give dog bones? It can vary depending between once or twice a week, it is best to consult your vet for proper guidance some dogs like to chew on bones more frequently. Can a German shepherd eat chicken? Well interestingly dogs can eat various human foods ranging from pork to chicken,you can also give your dogs yogurt and vegetables and they will enjoy a lot. Can my German shepherd eat eggs? If we talk about raw eggs there are some reservations and health risks whereas cooked eggs are perfectly fine. You might also like. They are filled with natural marrow with no added additives. The natural marrow bones are bacteria-free and safe to consume. The bones are handpicked and inspected, to enhance quality and consistency. They are odor-free, have a perfect texture and thickness. They keep the teeth clean and effectively remove tartar build-up and plaque. Pros They are sourced from grass-fed free-range cattle Made from one natural ingredient Effectively removes tartar build-up and plaque They have a perfect thickness Cons Blue Buffalo Wilderness Wild Bones If you are looking for grain-free bones for your German Shepherd, the Blue Buffalo wilderness wild bones are a great option. These bones are great for a German Shepherd with a sensitive stomach. They contain zero poultry by-products, and they are formulated to strengthen the canine. They are perfectly roasted for your German Shepherd to enjoy a rich meaty taste. They are natural and have no artificial ingredients or additives. The bones are gluten-free, soy-free, and wheat-free. For a large breed like a german shepherd, these bones last long and can withstand aggressive chewing. They are stuffed with beneficial ingredients to keep your dog healthy. The bones are formulated to give your dog a healthy jaw. The rich taste makes the dog want to chew throughout, therefore strengthening the jaw. Pros They have a rich beef taste They are slow-roasted to preserve the taste They are natural.

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Why From Us? We want to bring you a puppy that fits naturally and comfortably into your home. To bring that about, we focus on human exposure to young children and other animals to help our German Shepherd puppies socialize. We believe that early exposure to children and small animals helps our puppies fit into your home quickly and easily. We also provide a health guarantee for all our German Shepherd puppies. With OFA approval and insight, you can trust in the health of any puppies you buy from us. Call to learn about our puppies today. Reserve your puppy, Call for more information. We make it simple to match you with your new best friend! We might have puppies that are not on this photo list, just call we love to talk German Shepherds. Reserve your puppy now. Call us for prices. As deposits are received that is the order you pick your puppy. Deposits are non-refundable. All puppies will be up to date on shots and worming meds. All are AKC Registered. Call if you have any questions. Pictures of the puppies will be provided. You can pick out with a photo or come here and select your puppy. Shipping can also be provided for an additional cost. Heidi has puppies. They will look like this at 8 weeks old. More puppies to come, call if you want to reserve. Reserve you new best friend, just call. Heidi is a great momma. See who is in heat by calling us. Raquel is the mother and Ranger is the father. All our puppies have all shots and worming meds. Female, white collar Raquel is the mother and father is Ranger. Full of fun. Our puppies go fast, call to reserve yours. Male, Yellow collar Raquel is the mother and Ranger is the father. He is full of cuteness and very alert. Pink collar, female Raquel is the mother and Ranger is the father. Ready for a forever home. Full of fun and great color. Good size boy. Red collar, male Lacee is the mother and Baron is the father. Full of fun! All puppies have all shots and worming meds. Lacee is his mother and Baron his father. Black collar, male Baron is the father and Lacee is his mother. Full of personality. Green Female The leader of her group and full of personality. Lacee is her mother and Baron is her father. Fun loving. Call with any questions. He is sweet and ready for you. Found his forever home. If you would like up to date photos on a certain pup just call. Approximate litter date is on November 24, for Isaac and Lily! Ready to go to their forever home on January 20, .Highly intelligent, sweet temperament, confident, fantastic companions that are a joy to live with. Vet administered vaccinations and de-worming starting at six weeks. AKC Breeder of H. We are a small, noncommercial breeding kennel raising quality AKC German Shepherd puppies for sale to loving, nurturing families. We selective breed hip and elbow certified bloodlines for healthy, good tempered working dogs and pets. Isaac focused on conformation training while he was young. He has 1 obedience, 2 rally, 1 trick and the highest level of CGC titles to show that he has biddability, and he easily passed the GSDCA temperament test before he was 2. That is quite impressive! He loves using his nose in barn hunt, and is ready to find some trials this summer. Isaac also shows Herding tendencies, so his owner will try him on that and agility classes this year. He is focusing on more performance training and titling. Best in Amateur Maturity at the National Specialty in .Bringing great hips, drive and temperament to our program with that beautiful black and tan coat! We are a German Shepherd breeder that specializes in quality, intelligent dogs with proven superior genetics. We sell German Shepherd puppies that are the perfect choice for professionals and families. We focus on producing a stable, protective line of German Shepherds that you can trust with your children. Specifically bred for temperament, intelligence, conformation, and sound hips and elbows. Estimated birth date Nov. Ready to go to their new approved home on January 20, .Iowa code states puppies can not leave until 8 weeks of age. Depending on maturity, puppies can stay with us from weeks. Ours are raised in our home. These are also show dog quality with great temperaments. We register our litters and each individual puppy with the American Kennel Club. Are you ready to own a GSD? If you are interested, please let us know. We have a puppy reservation PDF questionnaire for you to complete to see if your home would be a good match for one of our puppies. We are always willing to speak with you about our puppies. We are located in southwest Iowa. We do not ship puppies. You will need to pick up in person. Watch this site and our Facebook page and Instagram for updates! Also, each individual puppy gets registered with the American Kennel Club by us, the seller. You pick your puppy and name it! Prices are subject to change at any time due to availability and demand. When you make your deposit, your price is absolutely locked in! If you are a home that is interested in showing or breeding, please visit with us about this as early in the process as possible! The puppies in this litter are from AKC Registered parents, are a registered litter, and are also already individually registered with the AKC. Litter born on Apr. Later will focus on more performance training and titling. Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, Inc. Elbows are normal and the hips are good. Our German Shepherd Dogs can be used for police work, tracking, search and rescue, guarding, guide dogs for the blind or physically disabled, show, and a family pet. They are well socialized with children and other pets. Our dogs are intelligent and easily trained. Our German Shepherd puppies are the perfect choice for personal protection and are great companions for all ages. All of our puppies for sale are born and raised in our home. They are well-loved and handled regularly by our family, giving them a great start on being well socialized. Carmen L. This training involves exposing the young puppies to different stresses which help stimulate the neurological system. ENS is done for 2 consecutive weeks starting 3 days after the puppies are born. The process consists of 5 simple and harmless exercises, which are: tactile stimulation, lying in the supine position, held with head erect, tilted upside down, and thermal stimulation. Each exercise is done for seconds and the entire process only takes about 30 seconds. We will use their score to help match puppies to people. Please read the important information below! Please contact us prior to placing a deposit, so we can ensure that the puppy will be going to an approved home and that the puppy of your choice is still available. A deposit or payment can be placed on a puppy by check or PayPal. Puppies will be ready for their new homes at 8 weeks old and current on all vaccinations and de-worming. It is your decision whether to pay and extend this. It is recommended to have pet insurance for your puppy. You will be given a list of participating vets in your area. Must provide valid identification. Prices vary for vets.

Hi Linda, I just want to give you an up date on Storm. He is doing great!! I will be going for his BH in December and hopefully soon after that for his Schutzhund one. I had a guy offer to buy him. I told him no! I was also asked if I wanted to breed him to their female. I told them, I will have to get the okay from the breeder. I am sending you some pics on his bite work. I will let you know information on next meeting which is next month. The trial is going to be held in the club field. I cant wait for you to see him! Storm received his BH — Congratulations!!! Bella is growing like a weed and I thought you might like to see how she looks at 7 months. She weighs .She has really bonded with my husband, David. She follows him everywhere. I think she will be his running companion when she gets older. She has been through training with private lessons at home and socialization at Pet Smart. Our vet is very impressed with her good nature. At our last puppy check up, Bella actually jumped into her lap. Her bark when she is playing has a high pitch. But when she sees something that should not be there it changes to a very low bark with her hair on her back standing up. Thanks for such a wonderful puppy. She really fits into our family very well. Enjoy the pictures. Mary Pizzi Hope this note finds you both doing well and enjoying the Christmas season! Well, Bella is now 1 year old. Hard to believe — she has grown so much. She is such a bright spot in our lives. We hide a toy then ask her to search. Boy, the nose goes to the ground and air until she finds it. She also gives the local squirrels a run for their money. She walks through the yard like she is a member of Seal Team Six — then she runs after them while they jump into the trees and take off. She will lay at the bottom of the tree and wait, thinking that is their only way back down. Sending a couple of pictures to show you how pretty she is. Just Beautiful! Guess we will need to take her on longer walks. Midnight is doing SO wonderfully! What a super, super dog. He is 8 months old now and around 70 pounds. He gets compliments all the time on his excellent behavior. When I walk him, sometimes other neighborhood dogs are running around loose and they come up to him. He is always looking to be friendly and meet new dogs. Even if he is provoked, he does not attack other dogs. He always looks to me for a command, and he is very focused, with excellent eye contact. He is a pleasure to walk and play with. We go down to a nearby field in my subdivision and throw balls. I sometimes wonder if any of the water makes it into his mouth!!! I yelled for someone to get her parents so they could get her to stop hurting the dogs. He was so patient and good. The other dogs yelped and snapped at her, but he was so generous with the child. We can take him for walks along Park Avenue in Winter Park, where it is very dog friendly, and he stays with us at the restaurant while we eat on the patio and enjoys a milk bone or chew toy. German Shepherds get a lot of attention. I just wanted to update you on our wonderful puppy. My mom routinely checks your web site for new puppies in case you have any females who are more tan than black. She likes the Rin-Tin-Tin style. Hope you and Emma are well! Rich Linda, I just wanted to drop you a note to tell you how happy we are with Jager. He gets compliments everywhere I take him. One woman stopped in the middle of traffic to ask me if he was old enough to breed yet! The kids line up to pet him, and he loves the attention. Thanks again for a great dog. Marion L. She had 10 beautiful puppies that included Black, Sable, and Black and Tan pups!! Thank you again for everything!! I thought you would like an update on Thora! We purchased her from you last June. I have attached a picture. She is doing great, and is sweet, silly girl. She is approaching 70 pounds at 11 months old. She absolutely loves ALL kids and other animals. She is my companion on my daily walks and has always walked very well on a leash. We had her hips x-rayed and they are perfect. Her temperament, attitude and behavior is indicative of excellent breeding and she is definitely NOT our Last Shepherd from you! Have a great weekend! We have answers. Price of German Shepherd for sale Orlando depends on lots of factors, including pedigree, breeder experience, coat type, coat color, and more. Luckily, there are tons of different puppies available in our network! We match families with litters based primarily on puppy preference, not location. That means whether your dream German Shepherd puppy is currently down the street or three states away, partners in our network can always arrange transportation to your nearest major airport—like Orlando International Airport, for example. How can I be sure a German Shepherd puppy Orlando is ethically raised? We understand how hard it can be to find German Shepherd breeders Orlando Florida you can really trust online, which is why we put so much effort into screening our breeders and business partners. Rather than breed our own German Shepherd puppies for sale in Orlando Florida, we act as matchmakers who help connect families who are searching for dogs with ethical breeders and dog businesses throughout the United States. What is an Orlando German Shepherd puppy mill? Puppy mills are often the biggest suppliers of dogs to pet stores. These puppies are more likely to get sick, to act anxious or aggressive, to require expensive veterinary care, and to pass away far too soon. Do you have German Shepherd Orlando Florida puppies right now? From there, adopting your dream dog is fast and easy. Can I be sure Uptown is trustworthy? We get it—online puppy scams are plentiful, especially for popular breeds like the German Shepherd. We wanted to make a place where families can feel safe that their dog is coming from a good home, and where great breeders are rewarded.

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

VAT ex. VAT inc. VAT Product added to your basket 1 Year Insurance Product Summary All products arrive with an official manufacturer's warranty, this insurance option is added protection against accidental loss, damage or theft. This insurance is optional and will meet the demands and needs of a UK resident requiring insurance for jewellery or watches in the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and Isle of Man plus up to 30 consecutive days elsewhere in the world any one trip. In the unlikely event that you may wish to make a complaint, this should be directed to T H March. The complaints procedure is detailed in your insurance documentation. It is important you read the certificate as this details the terms, conditions and any restrictions in cover. The insurance covers you against accidental loss, damage or theft. Items are covered Nation wide and up to 30 consecutive days abroad each year the insurance runs, in the event you wish to make a claim and the claim is accepted, you won't have to pay any excess fees. H March terms and conditions below. This insurance is only available in connection with the purchase of the items to be insured. Meacock and Others, Syndicate , in accordance with the authorisation granted to the undersigned under contract number UMRBA or any subsequent updating contract. Each subscribing Underwriter is not responsible for the subscription of any co-subscribing Underwriter who for any reason does not satisfy all or part of their obligations. This policy does not entitle the Assured to a cash settlement in the event of a claim. COOLING OFF This insurance may be cancelled within fourteen 14 days of inception of cover provided the certificate of insurance and purchase receipt are returned to the issuing Jeweller within this period and no claim has been made. This insurance is NOT renewable. Tel: Fax: E-mail: customerservices thmarch. Tel: Fax: E-mail: complaints lloyds. Email: complaint. Further details can be found on the Financial Services Register at www. You may be entitled to compensation from the Scheme if the Underwriters are unable to meet their obligations to you under this contract. If you were entitled to compensation under the Scheme, the level and extent of the compensation would depend on the nature of this contract. Website: www. Any Insured person not resident in the United Kingdom. Any item composed entirely of brittle material. Any losses from baggage, clothing or other belongings unless such baggage, clothing or belonging is being carried by hand or worn by the Assured or by any other person to whom the Assured has given the insured item as a gift. Any item stolen from an unattended vehicle. Any cost of repair or replacement which would improve an insured item beyond its condition immediately before the occurrence of the loss or damage leading to a claim being made. Any loss or damage attributable to: 1 i the actions of mechanical or electrical breakdown in the case of a watch or a clock , ii the actions of moth, vermin, gradual deterioration, wear and tear or design defect, or iii the process of cleaning, repair or renovation. Any loss or legal liability whatsoever arising from: 1 i ionising radiations or contamination by radioactivity from any nuclear fuel or from any nuclear waste from the combustion of nuclear fuel, ii the radioactive, toxic, or other hazardous properties of any explosive nuclear assembly or its component parts. Any loss or damage arising from: i war, invasion, act of foreign enemies, hostilities whether war be declared or not , civil war, rebellion, revolution, insurrection, acts of military or usurped power, ii confiscation, nationalisation or requisition or destruction of or damage to property by or under the order of any government or public or local authority. All repairs and replacements must be carried out by the issuing Jeweller. The maximum cost of repair or replacement will not exceed the price paid for an item as shown on the purchase receipt, unless a different replacement price is also shown on the purchase receipt in which case the maximum payment shall not exceed the replacement price. When the Underwriter settles a claim for the replacement of an item, or where the sum insured is used up in its repair, the premium for that item will be deemed to have been utilised and all cover on that item will cease with immediate effect. All steps must be taken to prevent loss or damage and maintain the items in good condition. The Underwriter may cancel this certificate by giving thirty 30 days notice of such cancellation in writing to the Assured at their last known address and the premium will be adjusted on the basis of the Underwriter receiving or retaining the appropriate proportionate premium. Unless specifically agreed in writing by the Underwriters this insurance shall be governed by the laws of England and subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the UK Courts. There is no liability under this certificate where you the Assured are entitled to receive payment under any other insurance EXCEPT in respect of any excess beyond the amount which would have been covered under such other insurance had this insurance not been effected. If you the Assured make any claim knowing it to be false or fraudulent in respect of any loss or the amount involved, this claim could be declined and all future claims made under it could be forfeited. Failure to comply with these requirements could lead to the claim being rejected. Your Jeweller will ask you to complete a simple claim form regarding the circumstances of the loss. If you are unhappy with the way your claim is being handled you should follow the procedure shown overleaf to make your complaint. VAT Product added to your basket 3 Year Insurance Product Summary All products arrive with an official manufacturer's warranty, this insurance option is added protection against accidental loss, damage or theft. James Avery. James Avery charms bracelet with 2 charms size 6. Let God. James Avery promotions can be obtained by you. 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While desertcart makes reasonable efforts to only show products available in your country, some items may be cancelled if they are prohibited for import in Brunei. For more details, please visit our Support Page. We have a dedicated team who specialize in quality control and efficient delivery. Since , desertcart has been delivering a wide range of products to customers and fulfilling their desires. You will find several positive reviews by desertcart customers on portals like Trustpilot, etc. The website uses an HTTPS system to safeguard all customers and protect financial details and transactions done online. The company uses the latest upgraded technologies and software systems to ensure a fair and safe shopping experience for all customers. Your details are highly secure and guarded by the company using encryption and other latest softwares and technologies. Genuine Pandora Inventory. Each charm is hand-finished in either or combined sterling silver, 14K or 18K gold with superior Danish design. Item Description Featuring a stethoscope and red cross, this sterling silver charm honors the tireless work nurses perform every day in caring for patients and their families. Give it as a nursing school graduation gift, a retirement gift, or wear it yourself as a proud member of this noble health care profession. These items do NOT come in a box nor have tags. Some items where used as displays. ALL items are brand new unused Pandora. You can combine pieces from our assortment to create unique looks that expresses your personal style and unforgettable moments. When measuring for bracelets, measure tightly where your wrist is broadest and add 1 inch cm to the measurement. Next, find the closest bracelet size. Both the 16 cm and 17 cm bracelets are VERY small. All prices are in US dollars. Prices of jewelry may change at All About Families discretion. 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By Chris Who does not love a Poodle? Poodles are one of those breeds that are easily identifiable. These gorgeous dogs come in three different sizes, and regardless of the size, they are highly intelligent , active, and beautiful. PuppySpot is a reputable dog marketplace where you can browse and find compatible puppies right from the comfort of your home. They have placed over , puppies into homes in the US! They were originally bred as hunting dogs and now serve as therapy dogs, service dogs, assistance dogs, and guide dogs. The breed secured the number-one position for the most popular dog 22 years in a row, 38 years ago. While they may hold the fifth spot on the list of the most popular dogs today, they are still very dear to many. If you, too, are smitten by these cute dogs and are thinking of adopting them, here are a few trustworthy breeders we recommend. Our Breeder Selection Criteria When you look for Poodle breeders in California online, you will get several search results, but not all breeders are reputable. A dog breeder and a prospect owner talks about dog adoption. So we have compiled a list of breeders who are ethical and responsible. These breeders: Register their pups with AKC Test all the parents in their breeding program for genetic illnesses. Raise the puppies using appropriate methods. Breed for quality and not quantity. Provide breeder support. Vaccinate and deworm their puppies. Initiate training. Share immense love for dogs. A white Poodle puppy sits and seems like it needs grooming. The breeders rear their litters under the puppy culture program, making sure that the pups are properly socialized and have the best temperaments. All the parent dogs in the breeding program are registered with the AKC and are health tested, both orthopedically and genetically. Their site shares complete details about the tests that their dogs have gone through. The puppies come with AKC registration and a 1-year health guarantee against genetic illnesses. The puppies are dewormed, microchipped, and given age-appropriate vaccinations before going to their forever homes. A trainer and a veterinarian evaluate them for temperament and health. Along with your puppy, you also get a large goodie bag and lifelong breeder support. Puppy pick-ups start at 6 weeks, in order of the deposits received. If you want to reserve a puppy, you will have to fill out the application on the website. If there is no upcoming litter, you can register for their waiting list. Contact Details:. Parents are Championed, fully health tested and totally "cleared" before they are bred after 2 years of age. Parents are Color Tested and no merle. Currently, we have produced 55 working Service Dogs with a "Natural" ability! Ask about our Service Dog Trainer, to help train you and your new puppy. Please fill out our puppy questionnaire for approval first, then you may contact her for an affordable quote. Thank you. Puppy Culture. Click on Puppy Culture page for more information. Exquisite standard poodles bred to AKC breed standard. Always trying to "better" the breed by always breeding forward with every breeding. We offer AKC Registered litters of solid inky blacks, silvers, whites and apricots. We also offer AKC Registered litters of multi-colors as in parti's, brindle parti's, brindle tuxedo's, full brindles with brilliant defined stripes and brindle pointed phantoms, tuxedo's, sables and sable tuxedo's. Our puppies are whelped and raised inside our homes. We do NOT sell our puppies to brokers or pet shops of any kind! We do NOT support the cross breeding of our purebred poodles with other breeds, nor sell to doodle or merle breeders. Some of our poodles live in our "approved" guardian homes and co-owner's homes. If you have never had a standard poodle, then you don't know what you are missing! Once you have a standard poodle, you will never live without one!! Our poodles are raised as part of our family to become part of yours. They make wonderful family dogs; they love to take long walks and swim. Hours of research and dedication to breeding healthy puppies, as well as a gorgeous specimen of the AKC breed standard went into the breeding of these gorgeous poodles. Currently, we have produced 23 Champions! They have great dense show coats, dark pigment and correct conformation. Our pups are whelped and raised inside our homes with lots of love, socialization, raised with children, other animals and handled daily. We are not a puppy mill or backyard breeder. Our dogs do not live outside in a dog run with dirt, and a dog house to get out of the element; they live inside our home, underfoot, as part of our family. They sleep in our bedrooms and hang out with us as we watch television. We breed for health first, temperament second, intelligence, conformation, type and beauty. We also "specialize" in Service Dogs. As of September of , we have produced 68 working Service Dogs! Poodles are very athletic high achievers and participate in outdoor activities. Our pups are very well suited for show in conformation, performance, sport, companion, obedience, rally and agility. They are also used for therapy, hunting, herding, tracking, working, tricks, dock diving, weight pull, lure coursing, service and medical alert dogs. Also tested for personality and Service Dog of a "natural ability" performed by our professional Service Dog Trainer of 25 years experience to determine and ensure proper home placement. Parents are temperament tested to ensure their offspring have correct temperament for service work; which is why we produce many Service Dog! Pups come pre-spoiled with a puppy packet, current starter puppy food and freshly groomed. All pups started on potty training at 6 weeks old to go outside, and crate training is well underway by 9 weeks old, however there is no guarantee that your puppy will be fully house trained at time of purchase and to hold Princetin Poodles LLC liable for any damage your puppy or older dog may incur after purchase. Some puppies or older dogs may go through separation anxiety from missing their mom or siblings, and may take longer to house train than others, so please be patient. In addition to that, a large open metal building roof overhead to prevent direct sunlight and rain which provides a spacious exercising area for proper development and growth, as much needed. This allows Mothers a lot of space, in a comfortable environment to teach her babies how to play and scold them when they are wrong, just as you would your child. Puppies are put out enough time per day for adequate exercise, then they are brought back inside our home. We do not sell our puppies to just anyone who wants one. We pre-screen everyone to try to match the puppy with his new home to ensure the puppy has a forever loving home and does not end up having to be re-homed or end up in a shelter somewhere! All puppies come back to us if you can no longer care or keep the puppy or adult, to be re-homed, at no expense to us. Our poodles are highly intelligent, diverse, very athletic high achievers and loving family companions. They love to cuddle and spend time with their family and have their people around. A poodle is an inside dog. Poodles are non-shed, and do not smell. They require frequent brushing and grooming every 4 to 6 weeks. Having been brought up on a farm, I learned the responsibility and fulfillment of such a lifestyle. I started my adult life breeding and showing horses and ended up with a miniature poodle named, "Fluff. Place out of 65 dog entry's in Novice Obedience, with a score of .Since then, I have trained and taught Basic and Advanced Obedience classes in our local obedience club. I have also shown other dogs and did very well in the Obedience ring! Poodles have always been my favorite breed, so I purchased my breeding stock of high quality, Multiple Championship pedigrees for my breeding program. They all came from well established, reputable breeders some of which had been breeding poodles for well over 35 years. I have now bred Standard Poodles for many years, producing sound, healthy pups, free of genetic disorders. I am very proud of this great accomplishment and all the hard work that went into producing a great specimen of the breed standard and always breeding forward to "better" the breed! Additionally, great confident "beta" temperaments which is the best of the best for all venues! Intelligence and very loving demeanor's are prevalent in these gorgeous Princetin Poodles. When you are looking for that perfect puppy, you may need to wait for a litter to be born. Reputable and careful breeders do not have puppies available at all times, and a good puppy is well work the wait! We are always willing to accept your deposit on future litters. Remember, if you are willing to settle for just any puppy, that is exactly what you will get - Just any puppy! You are his life, his leader. Winston demonstrates eagerness to please and loves to spend time training. Lee and family do such a great job socializing their pups that Winston acclimated to our household of 3 cats and a 6 year old labradoodle within hours! He is a very loving little guy and clearly had a great start at Berkshire Poodles! Could not have made a better choice in breed of dog and breeder. After only a little over 2 weeks she has blossomed into such a sweetheart. She has continued to amaze me with her intelligence. She was going in and out of crate after 3 days and now I have her actually jumping up at string of bells on door and barking to go out. She has not had an accident in the house in over 5 days. Thank you Lee, for such a wonderful companion. She walked on the leash pretty much like she had been doing it all her life! Got her home and she adapted so quickly! What an awesome pup! Lee and his wife were so kind and accommodating we couldn't ask for a better transition! Would recommend this breeder to anyone looking for a great poodle! They obviously love their dogs! Crystal Dewey We really had a good experience with Lee and his father in regards to picking out our puppy and having the information and local references we needed about her health and care. She was an adorable puppy and has turned into a well behaved loving member of the family. She's a beautiful dog too and gets compliments everywhere we go. Ginny Our Pally, now nine months old, is a delight in every way. She is smart, curious and very affectionate. She is never aggressive with anyone, human or canine; she just loves to be companionable and learn new things about the world. She has one weakness: socks. But if you keep your sock drawer closed, she is a practically perfect poodle. Get in touch. Berkshire Poodles. 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. Life Span Did You Know? Although the Poodle is the national dog of France, they actually originated in Germany over years ago where they were commonly used as a duck hunter. Their curly coat protected them from the elements and they were bred for their excellent swimming skills, high intelligence, and incredible retrieval skills. The Poodle comes in three sizes — Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Throughout history, this dog breed has served many purposes. From living in the lap of luxury as companions to nobility to working out in the field as a valuable hunting companion to entertaining people in circuses around the world, the Poodle is right at home. Although they are more popular as a companion dog, the Poodle still maintains their athleticism and working dog instincts. Poodles are known for their intelligence, cheerful disposition, and sensitive nature. They are versatile dogs that make great family companions. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Due to their sensitive nature, they tend to be a better fit for older children who understand how to approach and interact with a dog appropriately. These dogs prefer peace and harmony in the household, so very young children that are too loud or rough can stress them out. The Standard Poodle also tends to be quite energetic until they are about two years old and may be prone to knock over small children in their excitement. Standard Poodles also tend to make great watchdogs and have some protective instincts. Without proper socialization, they can become skittish, nervous, and wary of strangers. Making sure any puppy is socialized early and often helps them grow into a confident, well-rounded dog. Standard Poodles are highly adaptable dogs. Their energy level tends to make them better-suited for larger homes with room for them to run. But, they can adapt well to apartment living as long as they receive the exercise, mental stimulation, and affection that they need. They tend to do well in most climates. As with most dog breeds, they are sensitive to very hot and very cold weather. These dogs are in-tune with their owners and thrive on human companionship and affection, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Poodles are a relatively healthy dog breed, but there are some potential health concerns to be aware of. Because of their larger, barrel-chested body type, the Standard Poodle is also at risk for bloat. Responsible breeders will screen and test their stock to ensure the genetic propensity for breed-related conditions is not passed along to the puppies. Poodles are highly intelligent, sensitive, and eager to please their owners. They are highly trainable, pick up things quickly, and are a good fit for owners of any experience level. Because they are sensitive and in-tune with their owners, they respond best to consistent, positive training techniques focused on rewards and praise. Poodle coats are curly or corded and come in a wide variety of colors. Although Poodles are known for their low-shedding, hypoallergenic coats, their coats still require a lot of maintenance. Keeping your Poodle in a short clip can help reduce daily maintenance, but still requires regular professional grooming every four to six weeks to maintain it. A longer coat requires daily brushing in order to prevent matting in addition to professional grooming every four to six weeks. Regular professional grooming often helps with this as nail trimming should be done monthly, at least, to keep nails from growing too long. Dental care for dogs , like brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day, is essential to protecting them from painful dental diseases like gum disease and tooth decay. You, your dog, and your groomer will thank you for it! Who knows? If you ensure these experiences stay positive, they could even become a bonding time that your dog enjoys. These are high energy dogs that require a good amount of exercise and mental stimulation every day in order to be happy and healthy. They love to stay busy and may enjoy running with you, going for a swim, taking trips to the dog park , hiking with you, and more. They also tend to be a good fit for several dog sports, such as agility, dock diving, obedience, flyball, tracking, and more. A fully-grown Standard Poodle usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. They can be slightly smaller than the usual as the Standard size is denoted by being more than 15 inches tall at the shoulder. A Standard Poodle generally lives years. Featured Standard Poodle Article.

However, you can encounter several other Labrador colors thanks to genetic variation and different breeding practices. Below are six of the most common color varieties. Black Labrador Since four out of nine potential Labrador color gene variations result in a black coat, black Labs are the most common coat color in Labradors. So, the takeaway here is that black Labs are always the dominant coat color. People love black Labs for their soft, shiny coats. The black Labrador pose for a photoshoot! Yellow Labrador Yellow Labs come in as the second most common color after black Labradors. Unlike black Labs, which have an unmistakable, predictable color, yellow Labs can come in many different shades. The genetic makeup of yellow Labradors includes one-third of the possible Lab color combinations. The genetic codes include eeBB, eeBb, and eebb. A Labrador sniffs a smoked dog bone 3. Chocolate Labrador Chocolate Labs are the rarest of the three primary Labrador colors. There are only two genes that will produce these dogs—EEbb and Eebb. As with yellow Labs, chocolate labs vary significantly in their coat color. Some chocolate labs have a light brown coat, others a medium brown, and some are even so dark that they appear mixed with black and brown. Aside from their genetic predisposition to an earlier death, these dogs can also suffer from the same issues as other Labs, including patellar luxation, osteochondritis dissecans, and canine hip dysplasia. So, if you have your heart set on buying a chocolate Lab, keep in mind that you may lose your best four-legged friend about 1. A chocolate Labrador Retriever having its coat brushed 4. They get their dark, reddish coat from the same gene as yellow Labs. But since yellow Lab genes can present a wide variation in yellow colors, it causes some puppies to enter the world with an almost red coat. Red Fox Labrador Retriever looks up. Silver Labrador You might have trouble recognizing a silver Lab as a Labrador when they walk by, given that this is such a distinct color deviating from the three primary colors. And, unfortunately for silver Labs, these dogs are a color variation from chocolate Labs. Another issue that silver Labs frequently face is color dilution alopecia. Alopecia is a condition when the immune system harms hair follicles, which leads to skin issues and hair loss. So, should you be interested in breeding your Labrador, please be responsible and never breed a silver Lab. Silver Labrador Retriever sitting in the forest. Like red fox Labradors, white Labs have the same genetic makeup as yellow Labs. Nevertheless, no one will mistake these dogs for pure white; they almost always retain a light cream-colored look, thanks to some yellow fur. Albinism is a life-threatening and rare genetic condition resulting from a lack of pigmentation. Albino Labs often die young and suffer from conditions like blindness and deafness. A white Labrador Retriever sits quietly. If you think mating two black Labradors is a guarantee for producing black Lab puppies, think again. Black is a dominant gene in Labs, but the color yellow always overrides black and chocolate. Instead, check out the chart below to see the puppy colors from mating different colored Lab parents. Parent Colors. The Labrador Retriever was a breed developed mainly by sailors who were sailing between England and Canada. Although it is a breed mainly developed in Britain, their name comes from the province of Newfoundland and Labrador in Eastern Canada. In fact, some writers confused this dog with the Newfoundland breed. Although related, they do not have the same breed history. One of the main reasons for their popularity is due to their name. Retriever type dogs were originally bred for hunting. They are a type of gun dog which was used to retrieve the prey which hunters had killed. As with many other types of working dogs, such as water rescue dogs or types of herding dog , their use as a working dog may have declined, but their popularity as companion animals has increased. It is the distinction between companion animal and working dog Labrador Retrievers which has meant this breed has been divided into two main types. It is important to note that the majority of breed standard organizations do not make any official distinction between these two types of Labrador Retrievers. The differences are practical and more often used by breeders and guardians of the breed. To better understand, we need to look at the two types of Labrador Retrievers more closely. All types of the Labrador Retriever breed originate from dogs developed in Britain. Even if their names suggest otherwise, the differences between American and English Labrador Retrievers are not to do with location. As explained above, the differences are to do with whether or not they are working dogs or companion animals. American Labrador Retrievers are working dogs, which is why they are also sometimes referred to as Field Labrador Retrievers. These are the dogs which are most often used as working dogs on farms and other workplaces. The American Labrador is more athletic, muscular and stylized than the English breed. Additionally, they have finer and slightly more elongated extremities than the English type. For example, their snout is noticeably longer than that of the latter. Aside from appearance, the temperament of the American Labrador Retriever is closer to that of a working dog character. They are more active and energetic, precisely because they are used more often to carry out the physically intensive exercise required of working dogs. In the home, this means they will need more exercise. Since they have been developed to be hunting dogs, they have a more acute hunting instinct. While this is very useful on the farm, it is something which needs to be considered when adopting an American Labrador Retriever into the family. They need to be cared for by a guardian who can properly educate and teach them. Most importantly, their hunting instinct needs to be channeled into healthy behaviors. If this does not happen, they may be more likely to attack other pets or even members of the family. The reason for this is because they have been typically bred to be show dogs. While the majority will be used as companion animals, their genetic history has been geared toward their personal appearance more than ability to hunt. Since the English type Labrador Retriever has not been bred as a working dog, they are not generally as athletic. The English Labrador Retriever has a larger frame and a slightly stockier build than their American cousin. They are also a late-maturing dog which can develop a fairly thick body and be more prone to obesity. This is especially the case with neutered dogs. They have relatively wide-set legs, a shorter snout and a moderately sized head. The character of the English Labrador Retriever is delightful. They are very friendly, playful and affectionate. They make an ideal family pet. They are particularly good dogs for children. However, they will also need education, even if they are not a working dog. As with any dog, they may develop behavioral problems without it. Similarly, the American Labrador Retriever can be a fantastic family dog as long as we show them the proper respect. However, after this time, both working type and show dogs were developed simultaneously in both the USA and UK. For this reason, we cannot necessarily say all working dogs are from America and vice versa. However, the origins of all Labrador types also lies in Canada. When we speak of the Canadian Labrador Retriever, we are discussing the original specimen from which these breeds developed. It is not an extant breed, but one which was lost thanks to the popularity of current Labrador breed types. It was a breed which first emerged in the 16th century, but had changed even by then by the time the Labrador Retriever was developed. All types of Labrador Retrievers have more shared characteristics than differences. For example, they are as likely as each other to develop the diseases common to the Labrador breed. All different color types of Labrador Retrievers The coat of all types of Labrador Retriever is thick, dense and soft. It is water resistant, one of the reasons why they are so fond of playing in water and useful for duck hunting. While there may be variations of tone over an individual dog's coat, officially recognized Labradors do not have spots or other patterns. The only accepted colors of Labrador Retriever are: Black Yellow Chocolate The first yellow Labrador Retriever was recognized at the very end of the 19th century with most specimens being black before this. This is one of the reasons some people confuse the Labrador Retriever with the Golden Retriever breed. Some international kennel clubs allow for a gene variation which results in a silver Labrador Retriever. However, these are not officially recognized by most dogs shows and competitions. It is, therefore, seen as a fault. If you want to read similar articles to The Different Types of Labrador Retrievers, we recommend you visit our Comparisons category. References International Cynological Federation .Labrador retriever. Retriever labrador. Drakeshead Labradors. The labrador retriever: a Brief History. Seen these dogs in various colors? Well, a breed expert is ready to set the record straight. By Tracey L. Kelley After loving 19 cats, 11 dogs, and a canary, Tracey married someone allergic to all those creatures. Thankfully, she receives oodles of animal goodness sharing stories on Daily Paws! When not traveling, teaching yoga, or doing voiceover projects, she's an editorial strategist and developer for print, digital, and multimedia platforms. With the different head and body shapes and colors we see across the breed, are there multiple types of Labradors? While technically there's only one type of Lab, some breeders want these devoted pooches to accomplish different tasks like hunting and retrieving or just active companions , so they might be a tad dissimilar—but not by much. We asked Ron Morelos, a breeder and owner of Stonewall Labradors , to explain. It's a misnomer to call them 'American' or 'English'—no such thing," he says. But why is there some confusion about this breed? Let's take a closer look. First noticed in the northeastern Canadian province of Newfoundland not nearby Labrador, as the name suggests , there's little recorded history of just when these water-loving dogs appeared. The Kennel Club in the U. These sporting pups helped retrieve nets in the sea and wild game on land. John's dogs , Little Newfoundler, black water dogs, and Lesser Newfoundland as to not be confused with that big boi, the Newfoundland. English noblemen visiting Canada considered the Lab's retrieval skills a great benefit and returned to their homeland with devoted canines they hoped would become exceptional in the field. The Kennel Club later recognized the Labrador retriever as an official breed in .English Lab vs. American Lab: What's the Difference? So are there different types of Labrador retrievers? Not exactly, since the modern dogs are all considered descendants of the same Newfoundland breed line, and most Lab breeders follow the official breed standard recognized by The Kennel Club as well as the American Kennel Club AKC , which first registered the Lab in the U. However, other breeders follow the Labrador retriever standard established by the Federation Cynologique Internationale FCI , which differs slightly from the U. When people refer to 'English', they're typically referring to a more muscular body and broader head. This style you'll see in most conformation events [dog shows]. She might be a bit lankier, too, yet slightly bigger. According to Pheasants Forever , she'll be more likely to have the athleticism to dive into the water "to retrieve a shot bird" and "work all day hunting doves in the heat. Here's what the two types have in common: Both breed standards for Labrador retrievers acknowledge the same primary coat colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. They also outline swift assets for swimming such as webbed feet, insulating double coats , and "otter tails"—strong tails that function like rudders to guide them through the water. They share similar "blocky" heads, too. They are highly intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement training. The general temperament is the same as well, Morelos says. The Labrador has much that appeals to people; his gentle ways, intelligence, and adaptability make him an ideal dog. More to Love! Whether you're in need of a skilled bird dog or simply want a loving and active four-legged family member, you can't go wrong with a Labrador retriever. If you don't have any intentions of hunting with your Lab, avoid working lines, as these dogs have been bred to work and won't be happy without a job to do. Morelos notes that whatever type of Lab you'd like, take care to choose a responsible breeder. Labs are commonly affected by elbow and hip dysplasia and eye problems , so ask the breeder if they perform health screenings on their dogs, and request health certificates free of charge. Any reputable breeder will be more than happy to share the health information of their dogs. Was this page helpful? Find out how we get chocolate, black or yellow puppies and what color pups we might get when we mix Labradors of different colors. Strictly speaking, there are only three different types of Labrador color: black Labs, brown Labs usually referred to as chocolate and yellow Labs. These are the three colors recognized and accepted by the Kennel Club In practice, there is a wide range of shades of yellow Labrador color, from palest cream to richest fox red. But what makes a Labrador brown, or black, or yellow. And what about Silver Labradors? Where does this new and controversial coat color come in to play? Where do Black and Chocolate Labradors come from? The information that determines whether or not your Labrador is basically black or basically chocolate is passed on through a pair of genes. Why black is a dominant color: It is normal for dominant genes to switch off, or over-ride, recessive genes. And that is exactly what happens here. A dog with BB genes will be black, because he has no little b gene, the one that gives us a brown coat. But a Bb dog will be black too, because if the dominant black gene is present, it switches off the brown gene. How chocolate Labradors are made: Even though a dog inherits a little b gene, the dog will only appear brown if no black gene B is present at all. Two black genes BB gives you a black Labrador One of each Bb also give you a black Labrador Two brown genes bb gives you a chocolate Labrador Remember that the black dominant gene always switches of the brown gene, so only the dog at the bottom will actually look brown. Generation after generation of black dogs can continue to have only black puppies if dogs with the Bb gene are only ever mated to dogs with BB genes. Remember, the dog in the middle of our list above will look black, but pass the brown gene on to about half of all its offspring. But things are never that simple are they? Because of course some Labradors are neither black nor brown. The genetic information that creates a yellow coat comes from another pair of genes altogether. And these genes have a different kind of power. The result is a yellow dog But little ee is recessive, and if the dominant E gene is present, it switches off the masking gene. It only takes one big E gene to do this. So the dog will only appear yellow if no big E gene is present at all. There are three possible combinations of eee gene that a dog could inherit. There are nine different possible combinations. Nine different possible Labrador genotypes! The chart below lists them genotype is the genetic makeup, phenotype is the appearance of the dog. Drakeshead Labs How your Lab behaves and what they look like will depend to some extent on their origins. What are the two types of Labrador Retrievers? The two different types of Labradors are American Labradors, also known as field bred or working Labradors, and the English Labradors, bred for showing. Why are there different types of Lab? Labrador Retrievers were developed as the breed we know today by a couple of English aristocrats in the s who were passionate about shooting gamebirds birds. His job was to fetch dead and wounded game back to his master. And deliver it to hand undamaged, so that it could become a valuable and sustaining source of food. This is still the role of many working Labradors today, but so popular have the breed become as companions, that far more of these lovely dogs now live out their lives as family pets Labradors become pets Labradors first became popular as pets around the time that the first dog shows were springing up and exhibiting dogs was becoming a fashionable hobby. Gradually the two lines of Labrador — those bred for a role as sporting dogs, and those bred for a role as show dogs — began to diverge As the years passed the working type Labrador and show type Labrador became more different from one another. And breeding between the two types became less common. Capable of winning in the show ring and in the field. But as Field Trial competitions became more demanding, field bred labs became more specialised, faster, and more focused. Some not all lost their classic Labrador looks. While show bred Labs became a little more exaggerated, chunkier, heavier, and shorter in the leg. These names have nothing to do with location and everything to do with role. And the same applies to the terms English and show or bench type Lab. Whichever country you happen to be in. There has always been some flexibility in the roles that these dogs play. Many Labs of either type are incredibly versatile. Many English Labs will do a passable job of fetching a bird for you. And many American Labs will do a good job of being the family pet. But there are differences that may affect your choice. American type Labrador The working strain Labrador is likely to be easier to train. It may be easier for example, for an inexperienced owner to get him walking nicely on a lead. The American Labrador has a quick mind as well as a quick body, and is often a very sensitive soul that lives to please. Extremes of sensitivity can occasionally lead to nervousness, but on the whole, temperament is sound throughout the breed. Outdoors in the open, American Labradors may have very strong hunting instincts and be more likely to pursue your local wildlife. This can be a problem for those living in rural areas or exercising their dogs in countryside populated with rabbits or squirrels! This is something to consider if you like to relax and chat with friends whilst out walking. English type Labrador English type Labs are often heavier than their field bred cousins, and shorter in the leg. They may also be less agile. As juveniles, some English Labs can be extremely playful and distractible which can be a challenge, especially if you exercise your dog in busy dog parks where they are mixing with a lot of other dogs. My working type Labrador Tess, was quite grown up and sensible by the time her first birthday came along. My part show dog Rachael is six and is still not quite grown up! One final thought, in the UK, show bred labs are perhaps more likely to be noisy or prone to whining than American Labs. I get asked this question quite a bit! Drakeshead is actually just a British Labrador Kennel name. The Drakeshead Kennel is a famous kennel in England that breeds and competes very successfully working type Labradors. They also export Labradors to other countries. If your Labrador is from the Drakeshead kennels, his pedigree will have the word Drakeshead as part of his registered pedigree Kennel Name. There are many other successful breeders of American or field type Labradors in the UK. And many well known breeders of field type Labs in the USA too. Which is type of Lab is best for me? And it depends a bit on what you expect from your dog, and on where you live. If you want to get active with your dog, and maybe get involved with some Labrador activities or sports, then a Labrador from working lines might suit you best. American type Labradors for activities and hunting Working bred labs respond best to lots of human contact and a more managed approach to exercise outdoors. American Labs also tend to be more focused on their handler and may be more responsive to training. This can be helpful if you want to get involved in a sport or activity that involves your dog. Dog agility is a popular sport that American type Labs can excel at, while English Labs may lack the agility to compete at a high level. If you want a pet that is also a hunting companion then an American type Lab is your best choice. And it may be easier to manage this show type Lab outdoors, due to his less intense hunting instincts. But perhaps the main reason people who are not looking for a hunting companion may choose an English Lab is because they love the way that they look. Types of Labrador Heads One of the most distinctive separate features of the two types of Labrador Retrievers is their heads. If you are hoping for a chunky dog with classic Labrador good looks and a distinctive thick otter tail, then you do stand more chance of getting the dog you want from English or show lines. Just remember English Labs tend to take longer to grow up, be more playful, and more interested in introducing themselves to every passing stranger. Beauty if of course in the eye of the beholder. And some of those at home with the working type Lab will find the head size and shorter legs of the English Lab unattractive. Both types of Labrador can make great family dogs though the English type may be a little less prone to be shy or anxious. Dual purpose Labs A few breeders in the UK are attempting to re-create the dual purpose Labradors of the last century. Good looking medium weight dogs of substance with nice thick tails. Dogs with solid broad heads, thick coats, a well focused attentive brain inside them, and some powerful hunting and retrieving instincts. I think this is great news for Labradors as many working bred labs have quite poor conformation. And some show Labs are too heavily built and lack some of the focus and great retrieving instincts of their working cousins. Mixing the two lines can however, produce variable results and is always a bit of a gamble. You could end up with a dog with poor conformation and poor hunting and retrieving instincts. Whichever type of Labrador you choose for a pet, make sure you choose your breeder wisely. Getting a healthy puppy that has had a healthy start in life is more important than any of the above considerations. And that happy, confident Labrador temperament we expect from these beautiful dogs should be your number one priority. Different types of Labrador Here are some broad guidelines that do not apply to all individuals of either type. For a hunting companion or to fulfil your ambition to take part in Dog Agility, choose an American or working type Labrador. And for a more sensitive, focused and trainable dog, also go for a working type Labrador For the classic Labrador tail, and chunky head, with robust and playful temperament, go for and English, or show type. If you are a bit of a gambler and none of these things matter very much to you, then a mix between the two types might suit you. But remember that these are very broad guidelines. There are huge differences between litters, and between individuals in the same litter. Whichever type of Labrador you choose, be sure to check out health clearances, and meet the parents to ensure great temperament. She was born in on February 14, Valentine's Day, which is funny because she is a chocolate labby: I got Maggie in the spring of .And totally crazy. For the first few months I had her, I had a tough-love relationship with her. Because she was pretty much out of control, along with being a very dominate puppy , I had to make sure from the beginning that she knew that I was the pack boss. As she got older she also showed some signs of aggression to dogs and people outside of our pack family. Maggie took to training like a pro. She loved to "work", as I called it. Her attention and focus on me was, and still is, out of this world. When she is playing with her doggie friends, I can call her out and she will practically fly to me, completely forgetting the other dogs and instead focusing on me. Her focus on me was so great that she was off leash trustworthy in nearly any situation by 11 months. Now at almost 5 years old, she is perfect. It takes a lot to get a dog close to perfection, and Maggie is as close to it as a dog can get in my opinion. I call them The Three Hoods. I had heard people say if you have a good dog and you get a puppy, the older one will play a big part in training the new pup; I now know that is true. They are a huge part of our family and we couldn't imagine life without them. He is waiting for his owner to throw him the ball. Notice how his tail is up. That indicates that he is in an excited state of mind. Oscar gets a lot of excited physical exercise playing ball. This type of exercise tires out the body, but keeps the mind in high excitement mode. A pack walk is also needed to exercise and calm the mind. Never met a stranger. Miss him dearly. He likes to sleep a lot and play tug-of-war. He also likes to dig up the yard which mommy and daddy aren't too happy about .He loves walks and playing with other dogs. He's a very smart pup and learns very fast. He's practically potty trained—we use the ring the bell on the door system—and he sleeps through the night. He also likes to cuddle on your lap, which could pose a problem when he's 80 lbs. Labradors "Molly Girl at 2 months—Molly is every bit chocolate Lab, but with none of the horror stories I was warned of! She is not super high energy, probably due in part to the daily exercise I make sure she gets. She is eager to please and extremely loyal. She greets everyone with a wag of the tail and loves to be loved on! As with any dog, consistency is important when training, and thanks to that, and dog parks , Molly is the perfect dog: " Ripley the silver Labrador Retriever at 11 months old Silver Labrador Retriever, photo courtesy of Crist Culo Kennels Tai the chocolate Lab at 1 year old with a long stick in his mouth Three adorable puppies showing the three Labrador colors, front to back, black, yellow and chocolate, photo courtesy of Mirage Labrador Retrievers "This is our newly adopted black Lab named Dozer. He is one and a half years old in this picture and we adopted him from the pound. Like most Labs he loves the water as you can see in the picture ; in fact, he loves it a little too much. We need to work with him on not obsessing over the water so much, but he is so eager to please that it shouldn't be too hard. We take him on two walks a day with him carrying a doggy backpack, one being a three-mile walk with at least a half hour of swimming. I watch the Dog Whisperer all the time so I know that with following his methods and with Dozer being so eager to please that whatever issues he has we will be able to improve them. Cappy is an all-around great companion and fun dog. His favorite activities include car rides, swimming, fetch, meeting new people and playing with his big sister, a black Lab. You might be surprised to learn that there are only two main types of labradors. They are the American labradors and English labradors. However, kennel clubs only recognize one breed, the Labrador retriever. Below, read about the different types of labradors. In addition, learn about the personality and color options of labradors. Adult vs. First, labrador puppies grow very quickly. Your puppy may reach its full height between six months and a year but continue to fill out until age two. Labrador puppies are slowest to mature mentally. Your puppy may seem overly rambunctious, too energetic, or even destructive as a young dog. Even though it can take two years, your lab should settle into a loving, calmer dog. English labradors vs. American labradors The two main types of labradors are very similar, though they have some key differences. Instead, Britains and Americans bred labradors for distinct purposes. In the UK, labrador breeders sought perfection and uniformity; in other words, show-quality dogs. In the US, labradors suited to hunting were more popular, so breeders tailored their puppies for those purposes. English Labradors tend to be stockier. They have broader, barrel-shaped midsections, and their bones look thicker. In contrast, American labs are more narrow. They have narrower necks and heads and thinner coats. They also have longer legs, tails, and bodies. As hunting dogs, they often retrieved birds and other small prey. That meant they had to be agile, fast, and able to swim. You can tell that the American labs are the athletes in the family. What do English and American labs have in common? While they appear distinct, the two kinds of labs have much more in common. Genetically, the two sub-breeds are strikingly similar, as you may expect. Another thing that they have in common is temperament. Almost all labs are good-natured dogs. Although American labs sometimes have more energy and need more exercise than their English cousins, both types are very eager to please. Along with the fact that they tend to love treats, that makes them easy to train. Types of labrador colors Many people associate labradors with their colors rather than heritage because the color is more apparent. Kennel clubs tend to recognize three colors of labs, yellow, chocolate brown , and black. American labs are more energetic , and English labs are larger, but both will love you.