4 month golden retriever puppy

Depending on the laws where you live, you may need to apply for a license from your local government. To find out if you need a license, inquire with your local law enforcement or animal control office. In many places, breeders of hunting dogs are exempt from licensing. A whelping box is a large box where your female dog will birth and nurse its puppies. Your whelping box should be 2 feet 0. Your female lab and her puppies will spend the first three weeks after birth in the box. Afterwards, the puppies and mother dog will be able to move into a cage or similar enclosure. In addition to a whelping box, you'll need cages to house your grown dogs, juveniles, and any other dogs you plan to keep as breeding stock. Grown dogs will need cages that are 42 inches cm long and 30 inches 76 cm high. Juveniles and younger dogs will fit in smaller cages, but make sure to move them into large cages when they are mature. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source The dogs should be able to easily stand up, turn around, and lay stretched out in their cages. If they can't, the cages are too small. Collect towels and sheets from friends or family. If you can't get enough, you can purchase new towels or sheets to use as bedding. Then, spread them out in your whelping box and cages. This will turn the whelping box and cage into a comfortable place for your dogs. In addition to cages, your dogs -- mature and juvenile -- will need access to open space. As a result, you should create two or three at least 20 by 40 foot 6 by 12 m fenced areas in your yard. This way, you'll be able to have dogs of different sexes and ages outside at one time. When your puppies are weeks old, you need to take them to the vet for an examination and their first set of puppy shots. If you don't take them to the vet for vaccination, you could put them at risk of contracting dangerous illnesses. Ultimately, a responsible breeder will stay in touch with their vet throughout the breeding process. Go to source Advertisement. Male Labradors A male Labrador becomes fertile after six months of age and reaches his full sexual maturity once he's 12 to 15 months old. An adult male Labrador can mate at any time. If the Labrador is healthy, he may be able to keep his fertility and be sexually active until old age. It's pretty straightforward with male dogs. However, several other factors come into play when we try to breed a female Labrador. So let's talk about breeding female Labradors in detail. Female Labradors A female Labrador will have her first heat cycle after she's six months old. This is the phase in which she can get pregnant. It reoccurs around every six months until late in life. We'll talk more about the heat cycles of Labradors in the next section. You should never breed a female Labrador during her first heat cycle. She is quite young at this point, and you don't want to impose the stress of pregnancy and lactation on her as she's still growing. Even though she may be sexually active, she isn't completely mature physically. Mating during the first heat cycle increases the chance of pregnancy and other health-related complications. We shouldn't breed the female Labrador until she's physically mature. Since Labradors fall into the category of large breeds, they mature around the age of 18 to 24 months, so it's best to avoid breeding until the third heat cycle or until she's around two years old. Litter Sizes Explained Understanding Female Heat Cycles Understanding the heat cycles of your female Labrador is essential to avoid failed breeding attempts or unplanned litter of pups. When we say that a female Labrador goes into heat, we mean that her body is preparing itself for possible conception. It's your dog's reproductive cycle. Phrases such as heat cycle, breeding cycle, and periods, all refer to the same thing. A Labrador stays in the heat for around three to four weeks; there's no exact number of days, though. Although your pet may stay in the heat for up to four weeks, the days when she's most fertile begin after days into the heat cycle. This high-fertility period lasts for around five days, so you should mate the Labradors between the 10th and 14th day of the female Labrador's heat cycle. This heat cycle is divided into four stages: proestrus, estrus, diestrus, anestrus. Let's briefly discuss each of them. Proestrus: The female dog is getting ready for pregnancy. Male dogs will start getting attracted to her, but she won't allow breeding as of yet. This stage typically lasts for nine days. You'll see physical signs such as the swollen vulva and bloody vaginal discharge. Estrus: At the beginning of this stage, the ovary releases eggs. The estrogen levels in your dog's body decline, while the progesterone levels go up. The female dog is fertile in this stage, ready to mate, and she will follow her bodily instincts and accept a male. This stage also lasts for around nine days. Diestrus: This stage lasts for two to three months or until the female Labrador gives birth if she's pregnant. She will no longer be accepting males. A bloody discharge may still be present, but it gradually stops. By the end of this stage, the hormonal levels in your dog become normal. Anestrus: This is the final stage of the heat cycle of your female dog. There's no sexual activity during this phase. Most female Labradors go into heat twice a year. The ovarian activity of a female dog starts to decline in the sixth year of her life. Most of them stop conceiving after they're seven years old. We've discussed that we should wait till the third heat cycle of a female Labrador before breeding. But what are the health concerns if a Labrador gets pregnant too early? You need to allow your Labrador's body to grow up. If the female Labrador gets pregnant before maturing physically, it'll put extra strain on her. The physical strain of carrying extra weight is a burden on the growing joints. Apart from that, pregnancy will suck out nutrients from your dog. Since the female Labrador is young, her immune system isn't fully developed. This means that she's more vulnerable to diseases and infections than an adult dog would be. Various bacteria can infect her reproductive tract, causing abortions, stillbirths, miscarriages, and even the death of the newborn puppies. Your dog may even end up dying while giving birth to the puppies. Because she hasn't fully grown, her pelvic canal may not be large enough for the puppies to fit through without endangering their own lives and the life of the mother. Here, she must go through surgery, which increases the chances of health complications for her. Since she is also not mature biologically, she is more likely to abandon her puppies than an adult mother. She may fail to care for them, which lowers their chances of survival. Performing Health Checks Before Breeding Both parent Labradors require long-term care to produce beautiful, strong puppies. They need to be physically and mentally healthy. The female Labrador should have decent muscle tone and a balanced weight before breeding. Apart from physical health, they also need to be in good mental condition. A mentally stable female Labrador will make a better mother than one that's insecure or has an unstable temperament. A month before breeding, the female Labrador should go through pre-breeding physical examinations by a vet. You need to get her checked for common health problems, such as elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and eye disorders. The vaccinations of both parent Labradors should be current, and the female Labrador should be tested for parasites as well. DNA Testing Another health check that I would highly recommend for any dog owner, but especially for one that is considering breeding, is to have DNA testing done. In recent years human DNA testing has become extremely popular with companies like 23andme emerging. People are interested in understanding their background, health sensitivities, etc. This is no different for dogs! This kit tests for over health conditions and uses over , markers to identify and build a complete genetic profile. It is simple and non-invasive. All you have to do is perform a quick oral swab and mail it in! Conclusion We've just talked about a lot of different things. Here are the important points from this article: Male Labradors reach full sexual maturity after 12 to 15 months of age. Female Labradors have their first heat cycle after six months of age. We should wait until the third heat cycle before breeding, which happens after 18 to 24 months of age. The mating should take place between the 10th and 14th day of the female Labrador's heat cycle, as she's most fertile during this period. Conception before physical maturity can cause health complications. We also need to perform pre-breeding health checks to ensure that the female Labrador is healthy and ready to conceive. At The Labrador Site we help you to decide whether your dog will be a good mother, let you know what health tests you will need, and give you advice on picking a stud dog. If you are looking at mating labs, and raising a litter of puppies in your home, there are a lot of things to carefully consider first. Although the idea of having puppies is lovely, the reality of Labrador Retriever breeding is that it can be a lot of hard work and expense. If you have already decided to breed from your dog, you may find our article on colour inheritance useful. Predicting the color of your Labrador puppies Here you can find out what color puppies you may get if you breed a yellow Labrador with a black Labrador, a black with a chocolate, breed two chocolates together, or any other combination of parents. There can be quite a few surprises in store. Find out more about coat color inheritance Should you let your dog have puppies? This article is for the owners of female dogs that may be considering letting her have a litter of puppies. There are pros and cons to breeding from your dog — this article looks at all of them objectively and in detail and helps you decide what is the best course of action for you and your family. Click here to continue. .So you want your Labrador to be a stud dog? Having a litter of puppies sired by your male dog may seem less of a big deal than raising a litter of puppies. But there are factors you may not have considered. Related Articles. Breeding a litter of puppies has huge appeal for many people. And indeed, absolutely anyone can breed from their Labrador. Whether or not they should is of course a different matter. And one on which many Labrador lovers have strong feelings. Public opinions about dog breeding It is quite common for Labrador owners thinking of breeding from their own dog to post up on internet forums and groups, asking for advice and information. Unfortunately the reaction they get from regular members is often enough to send them scurrying away without further comment. I say unfortunately, because once someone has been driven away, the opportunity to guide or influence them has been lost. This is a shame because there is possibly only one thing worse than a completely unprepared person producing a litter of puppies. And that is a completely unprepared person producing a litter of puppies without help. Who should breed from their dogs? There are those that believe no-one should breed dogs at all. They feel that there are too many unwanted dogs in the world already, and that no more puppies should be born. The chances are, if you are thinking of breeding, you already know of a family whose girl had a litter with no problems at all. Should my dog have puppies — Getting at the facts The facts are there are pros and cons to breeding. You need to consider the age, health and attributes of your female dog, and consider how breeding will affect her. And if you are to go down this route with minimal risk and maximum enjoyment, you need to do so with your eyes wide open, and armed with plenty of information. In this article we try to take a balanced view, and to give some objective and considered advice to those tempted to take the plunge and begin Labrador breeding themselves. Popular reasons to begin Labrador breeding In this section we take a look at some of the reasons why people want to breed from their dogs. And we look at the important factors which you need to consider before going ahead with breeding from yours. There are some reasons for breeding from a female Labrador which have no foundation in fact at all. There are reasons for and against spaying at an early age, or even at all. You may wish to consider these before committing your animal to such a major surgical intervention, but that is another subject. It is certainly not to her advantage physically, to have a litter before removing her uterus. Myth: Having a litter will calm her down The temperament of your female dog will depend on a variety of factors, including the genes she has inherited, the way you manage her, and how mature she is. Many dogs grow a little calmer with advancing maturity. If your dog is a bit excitable and hyperactive before having puppies, she is likely to be so afterwards. And what is more, will have produced half a dozen or more excitable and hyperactive puppies. It will be good for my children to see puppies born and raised I want another female dog just like mine It will make me some money These three reasons have some foundation in fact, but there are a huge number of influencing factors which could be involved in your case. One or more of these might mean for you, that breeding from your dog is not such a good idea. Reason: It will be good for my kids There is no doubt that in an ideal world, with a perfect pregnancy and easy labour, and half a dozen or so live healthy puppies, there is some pleasure to be had for all the family in the raising of a litter of puppies. However, life is not always that straightforward, and it is important to consider the consequences of a less than happy outcome. Although it is not common for a Lab to die in labour, it does happen. Only you can judge the effect that might have on your children. For one or more puppies to be stillborn or die in the first few days of life is more common. A midnight dash to the vets for a caesarean section, and difficulties getting the dog to feed her pups afterwards are a distinct possibility. These are not easy things for adults to cope with, let alone small children. A litter of healthy puppies will occupy a lot of your time, for several weeks. Whilst hand-rearing puppies is exhausting, and caring for sickly puppies is gruelling and distressing. Your children will not benefit from your lack of attention or the stress levels in your home during this time. Reason: I want another dog like mine This is a completely understandable motive for breeding from your dog. And it is important to take a really objective look at your dog and to try and see her through the eyes of others. Your dog shares the most genetic information with her siblings. Buying a brother or sister, from another litter by the same parents is the best way of getting a dog like her. Of course, it may be that her parents are no longer alive or being bred from. But another dog from the same line of close relatives bred by a knowledgeable breeder is likely to give you a very similar dog. Breeding your girl to a dog of your choice, without any real knowledge or understanding of his genetic lines, is likely to produce uncertain results. It is something to consider. The quality of your Labrador: When we have a really exceptional dog of great quality, it is only natural to want to breed from her. If your female has been winning awards for her appearance and structure on the show bench, or successfully passed her Gundog Grades, if she is doing well in agility or obedience competitions, or succeeding in field trials or working trials, you at least have some measure of her quality as judged by other people. This in turn will give you some idea of the potential for demand for her puppies. The principle factor you will need to assess is her temperament. You will need to particularly consider her disposition towards people, especially children, and her trainability. It is these two qualities which she must excel in order to stand a chance of producing good puppies. It would be very wise to get several unbiased opinions on these important factors. Reason: It will make me some money This is not always a reason that people admit to, but it is certainly a motivating factor for many people in the decision to breed a litter of puppies. Unfortunately, the costs involved in gaining health clearances for a Labrador will often outweigh any income gained from a single litter. So unless you wish to breed on a regular basis, you are most unlikely to gain any financial benefit at all from breeding from your dog. On the contrary, you stand a good chance of ending up considerably out of pocket as we shall see below. This is an interesting argument and though in principle a fine ethical stance, it is a difficult one to define precisely. Most of us would agree that you should not breed from a substandard animal, but what exactly constitutes a better dog is a very subjective matter. Indeed the breeding of pedigree dogs by so-called experts has come under a great deal of scrutiny lately. But most people would agree that you have a moral obligation to do your best to ensure that the puppies you produce will be healthy happy puppies that grow into healthy, happy, good-tempered, trainable dogs. Fulfilling this obligation can be a time and money consuming responsibility. Making healthy Labrador puppies There are a number of inherited conditions to which Labradors are susceptible. It is vital that anyone breeding Labradors ensures that both parents of any puppies they produce, have been checked for these conditions before getting their dog pregnant. The scientific community is clear and increasingly urgent: generations of breeding to standards based on solely on appearance has allowed bad welfare choices to be made. And now we need to breed for health as well as good looks. Apart from your moral obligation to do so, the consequences of failing in this duty can be serious. Without these clearances, you stand an increased chance of producing unhealthy puppies, of failing to sell your puppies most new owners know to ask for health clearances , of being sued by angry owners of unhealthy puppies that you have sold them, and of having unhealthy puppies being returned to you and the cost of their veterinary treatment being laid at your door. Health clearances The minimum health clearances required for a Labrador are hip scoring and eye testing. Many breeders nowadays also test for a range of other disorders, and elbow score their dogs as well. These tests are a crucial part of maintaining and improving the health and happiness of our Labradors. The costs of these tests are considerable and if you decide to go ahead and breed from your dog it is a good idea to get the cheapest tests done first. That way, if your dog fails the cheaper test, you will be spared the costs of the more expensive ones. Information on health screening tests for Labradors can be found in our health screening section. Protecting against inbreeding Part betterment of the breed and part making healthy Labrador puppies, protecting against inbreeding is an important part of maintaining healthy breeding lines for all pedigree dogs. Inbreeding occurs when related dogs mate. Whilst most people will instinctively recoil at mating very closely related Labs, few people realise the damaging effect of mating dogs who share a great- or great-great-grandparent. The average number could be as high as .Fortunately, because our genes come in pairs, as long as one copy is correct, we never feel the disadvantages of carrying a faulty copy. Passing on faulty genes Put simply, the each generation of puppies is being fathered by only a fraction of the male dogs in the previous generation. This leads to homozygosity — puppies begin to be born with two copies of a faulty gene — and this time the disadvantages of that fault are expressed. Luckily there are a lot of Labs in the world, so protecting against inbreeding is very achievable. These travel costs you make need to make the journey several times also need to be part of your decision making. You need to be objective about this, if you mate a dog that is overweight for example, you may be putting her safety at great risk. How old should my dog be to breed from her? A female dog needs to be physically and mentally mature before she has puppies. But she should also still be youthful. It is not fair to put an older dog through the stress of pregnancy, whelping, and raising a litter. This means that she should be at least two years old, and probably not more than four when she has her first litter Do you have the right support? As you will be acting as midwife when your dog goes into labour, you will need a mentor, someone who has whelped a lot of litters, to advise you. This may be your vet, though not all vets are experienced at dealing with a normal whelping. It could be the person who bred your own dog, or just an experienced friend. But you will need someone who can advise you and who is willing to be phoned at 3 in the morning. And there could be quite a few of them! How many puppies do Labradors have? Many Labradors will have six to eight puppies. Some may have as many as twelve or more. Some as few as one or two. Litters of ten are not at all unusual. The extremes come with their own issues, but even if your girl has an average litter, that will still be half a dozen or so homes for you to find. Finding homes for puppies? Prospective owners can pick and choose. So you need to consider if and why they might choose you. Is your female Lab a show winner? Has she won several Field Trials? Is she an agility champion? Working Trials? The hard fact is, these are the qualities that puppy buyers may be looking for. They want to know that the parents of their pup are successful in some way. No matter how lovely and how beautiful your dog, there is a very good chance that you could be left with several rapidly growing puppies, long after the cutesy eight to nine week stage has passed. Could you cope with this? Providing long term support Once your puppies have left and gone to their new homes, in the eyes of many, your responsibility continues. New puppy owners often need help and support, and the person they are likely to turn to, is their breeder. So you need to consider how you might feel about this, and whether or not you would be prepared and willing to take a puppy back if the new owner really cannot cope. Unless you can do this, you are simply adding to the mountain of unwanted dogs currently languishing in rescue centres throughout the land. The financial costs of Labrador breeding There are a range of costs to take into account when breeding from your female for the first time. These include Health clearances Worming and veterinary antenatal care Extra food for pregnant and lactating female dog A secure and appropriate whelping box and plenty of soft washable veterinary bedding Heated pads for pups to cuddle up to when the mother dog is not with them A fund must be available for a caesarean section and any other emergency postnatal care that may be required by your lactating dog or her puppies Worming medicines for puppies Kennel Club registration for each puppy Food for weaning First vaccinations and vet checks Costs of extra care and vaccinations for any pups unsold after eight weeks. If you have to take unpaid leave from work to be with the puppies you will need to factor this into your costs as well. Breeding a single litter can leave you substantially out of pocket, especially if your girl needs a caesarian section not uncommon. The greatest cost is probably the mental and physical effort that you will be putting in to the whole exercise. During the weaning process, puppies need feeding six times a day to begin with, and this is quite a pleasant if somewhat sticky process. However, this is only a small part of your responsibilities. The two most challenging factors to take into consideration are Time Mess The time factor: A pregnant Labrador requires your absolute and undivided attention from the moment she goes into labour until several hours after her last puppy has arrived safely. This whole process can take 24 hours or more. That means no sleep for you. After that time, your dog requires that a responsible adult is on your premises and available to see to her needs, and those of her puppies for the next seven to eight weeks. Keeping puppies clean, fed and generally well-cared for is enormously time-consuming. So you either need a boss willing to give you six weeks off, or another adult available to replace you at home. The mess factor: Most Labs make a pretty good job of cleaning up after their pups until you start to wean them at about three weeks old. If all has gone very well, then for the first three weeks you will be able to gaze at this adorable pile of Labrador loveliness with a deep sense of pleasure. Everything changes at weaning time. From this time onwards, cleaning up is your job. Bear in mind that all puppies have the primary objective of covering themselves in poo during their every waking moment. As fast as you clean them up, they will get messy again. This process is no fun at all. And the bigger and livelier the puppies get, the less fun and more challenging the cleaning process becomes. You will need the biggest mountain of newspaper in history, and a lot of hot soapy water and patience. The cleaning up process takes place every time you feed six times daily , and in-between where necessary. This is hard and smelly work, especially with kibble fed puppies. Is this the right time for you to breed from your Labrador? To sum up, here are the factors that you need to consider carefully before making a final decision to breed from your female Lab Are your objectives realistic and is mating your dog likely to achieve these objectives? Is your dog of suitable quality to ensure quality puppies? Is she is tip-top condition? Can you afford the necessary health checks, stud fee, veterinary treatment and other costs of raising a litter? Do you have an experienced mentor to help and advise you throughout pregnancy and labour? Can you be at home for seven to eight weeks without a break? Are you prepared to interview and vet prospective new owners and to turn away unsuitable buyers? This can be a time consuming and sometimes uncomfortable job. Can you house and care for any puppies that are unsold after eight weeks? Are you willing to take responsibility for any puppies that are returned to you later it happens. Are you prepared to take the risk to your dog of undergoing pregnancy and labour? It is probably worth underlining that even the best bred litter will sometimes fail to sell, especially in times of economic hardship. It is not unheard of for rescue centres to be given an entire litter of twelve week old puppies that the owner has simply been unable to sell and does not have the resources to house now that they have outgrown their puppy pens. If you are still unsure about breeding do take your time with this important decision. And if you are yearning for another dog please spare a thought for the many thousands of unwanted Labradors in rescue societies awaiting re-homing, often through no fault of their own but as a result of divorce, emigration, or the death of an owner. Please check our health screening section for details of the current health checks now recommended for Labradors in the UK. Has your Lab had puppies? Share your experiences with owner dog owners having the same dilemma using the comments box below! But it is also very hard work and is a very real responsibility. From breeders I have spoken too the one piece of advice they all seem to agree on is to plan ahead and make sure the breeding pair are from good stock and physically sound. Of course there are two distinct reasons why anyone would want to begin breeding Labrador Retrievers. The first to produce a litter for themselves and family, the second is as a commercial operation. Whatever your motivation it should be remembered that not all pregnancies result in a happy, healthy litter. And, if you have the female dog, breeding a litter at home can be a great experience for the first time breeder or it can be an unmitigated disaster. Things To Consider It is obviously very important to make sure you have the best possible pairing of dogs. Each dog must have a good temperament, be in top physical shape and free from disease. Each animals lineage should be checked to ensure there are no inherited problems. When breeding Labrador Retrievers there are three main health factors to consider: Progressive retinal atrophy — inherited eye disease OCD Osteochondritis dissicans — inherited joint disease Any of the above are serious defects and it is the breeders responsibility to ensure that the dogs are tested and x-rayed prior to mating to ensure they are free from them. The temperament of the breeding pair is just as important as their health. Labradors inevitably end up in a family home so it is essential that they are temperamentally suited to sharing a home with children as well as adults. Another essential point to consider when breeding Labrador Retrievers is to check the pedigrees of each of the breeding pair to ensure the dogs are not too closely related. The implications of using closely related dogs are poor health in the puppies, questionable temperament and a weakening of the bloodline. Before mating it is advisable to let the dogs get to know each other and, ideally, each dog should be over two years-of-age. By this time any temperamental or health issues should be apparent. Breeding Labrador Retrievers is not a decision to rush into but it should be remembered that finding the right pair of dogs is only the beginning of the process. Once the mating has taken place and pregnancy is confirmed the real work begins. Taking care of the bitch during pregnancy can take a lot of work as can the whelping process. After the mum has produced her litter taking care of the puppies, and finding good homes for the puppies is a time-consuming and potentially expensive undertaking. Of course the last point, finding good owners, should not be underestimated. Rest assured there is no way you will let the puppies go to just anyone. Be prepared to reject potential owners if you are not satisfied that they will offer a caring and loving home to a puppy. I suppose the cardinal rule here is to trust your instinct. You will know who is suited to owing one of your pups. Share this page:. Breeding Labrador Retrievers Golden Labrador puppy Many people think that breeding dogs is easy, but the truth is that if you want to produce healthy dogs that also adhere to the established breeding standard it will require time, knowledge, devotion and patience. Breeding in general requires a lot of experience and one has to really educate oneself by means of researching and consulting the experts. Here are some of the considerations we need to look at to before even pondering the idea of breeding a Labrador retriever. Breeding affects the development of the female dog bitch and breeding a Labrador retriever during its first heat cycle is not advisable. A bitch needs to mature first and full development usually takes place after the first heat cycle. Make sure that both dogs male and the female are far from each other during this time to avoid injuries. Male dogs are very persistent at this state. The actual heat cycle of a female Labrador retriever starts with a display of a clear type of discharge then it leads to bleeding as its vulva swells. It usually lasts for ten to fourteen days. During this time, the female is ready to breed. She raises her tail and moves it to the side. During the actual Labrador retriever mating, it is preferred that you hold the head of the female to complete the process because there is still a possibility that the female changes her mind during the intercourse. Breeding takes from ten to forty minutes. Once the actual mating takes place, it should not be preempted because it can damage both dogs. For optimal breeding results, repeat the process every other day. You can stop once the female no longer accepts the male. Never try to force the female into mating. Take note of the first and the last days of breeding. If it exceeds, consult a veterinarian. During the gestation period, the pregnant dog should be fed well with premium dog food. These foods provide the necessary nutrients for her and her litter therefore supplements for calcium, minerals and vitamins are not necessary anymore. The food consumption of the mother should be heightened before her pregnancy. This will also be evident during the nursing period. Do not limit her food intake, allow her to eat as much premium food as she wants to and provide her with the nutrients she needs for herself and to feed her young. During her pregnancy, expect that there will be behavioral changes and your dog may demand more sweetness, affection and attention from you. An increase in appetite and vomiting usually happens at the early stages of pregnancy. During the latter stages of pregnancy, she looks for a secure place for delivery and becomes closely attached and clingy to her owner. An interesting aspect of breeding a Labrador Retriever is how the mother often delays the delivery until the owner get home. Delivery usually takes place during two hours. Have a box for her ready where she can deliver anytime. Have a vet ready at anytime for checkup and in cases of emergency. Newborn Labrador retriever puppies usually aspirate fluid into the lungs and it is a good idea to remove it. This is done by means of proper holding of the puppy and helping it gasp to help the fluid and mucus out of the lungs. A vet can help in making sure that both the mother and the newborns will be healthy. Breeding a Labrador Retriever is an amazing experience but should only be considered if you are willing and able to devote enough time, effort and money to the project. Everyone has their own reasons. Maggie with one of her babies… Please understand, that we do not encourage just anyone to breed their dogs. And while we do sell on full registration occasionally, we make sure that our clients do all the appropriate health testing before breeding their dog. You should NEVER breed two carriers of any of these genes or else there can be puppies born with these diseases—and the only way to prevent breeding a disastrous litter is to make sure both parents have these clearances. A few of them are on breeding a show quality dog and simply learning in more depth the purpose and background of the Labrador Retriever. CH Endless Mt. Put it in a savings account should you need it for any unforeseen expenses once the pups are home with their new family. So if you are not willing to be a reputable breeder and do all you need to produce a top-notch litter, then just simply enjoy your beloved pet and do not even consider breeding. This field requires a deep love for the breed and for bettering the breed in health, structure, and temperament. We have only bred the best of the best with regards to temperament over the years so that you can have a dog you actually want to live with! And the gullible puppy buyer who has not done their homework buys these borderline puppy mill dogs—and guess what said backyard breeder does again—they breed—another litter with dogs that will probably only live until they are years old with all of the inherited diseases they carry. The first week after a litter is born is very stressful and sleepless, and the mother dog has much healing to do. And people say I get rich off of breeding Labradors! Now you can imagine why that just makes me laugh. We all want the same thing: healthy, happy, well-bred labs!

It was so obvious that this puppy was blue and it was the only one in the litter. It was already sold and so was I. I then met Dawn Malcolm as I was looking for a traditional colored show type stud male. Dawn shared with me that she has a solid blue male and had a strong love for the livers and blues too. That was 12 years ago and our friendship is still very strong. I am glad we joined the Yahoo email group as I met some great people who were as interested in sharing in the goals I have set forth expanding the blue gene pool. With the help of many friends I incorporated various GSD with the blue gene to start my own lines. Over the years all have proven to be a valuable asset not only because of their color but because of their various personalities, health and structure. Some needed physical traits improved, others needed tweaking in the personality department to be what I feel is an ideal companion bred GSD which is what most average families need. She is a blue brindle born here. Many of my others carry the blue gene. Tanzietu - is Tanzies blue fawn daughter, her father is Miner so she carries long coat and can carry liver from her father. She is a puppy and will be included in the program as she matures. How did blue get into the GSD gene pool? The color has been apart of the original gene pool from the start. The puppies born of a blue GSD that are expressing the color blue themselves are born a very striking shade of blue. Shades of blue Blue is a dilution of black. It is lighter than black, and in some cases, it is very apparent that they are still blue as adults. The puppies are born a very pretty shade of blue and many of them turn to almost like a steel gray black as adults. Others are a lighter shade of blue. None the less the gene responsible for blue in the GSD is the D gene. Again, blue is a dilution of black. Therefore blue GSD are unable to produce any black on the dog. Every where traditionally seen black is, is blue with the dog has the D gene. Including the nose leather, eye rims, lips, and paw pads will all be a dark shade of blue and not black. When puppies are young their eyes appear to be very brilliant blue as all puppies are born with blue eyes but they do change over to a light yellow wolf eye or even to an amber orange eye as they mature. Is your GSD blue or carry blue? Feel free to send me a picture of your puppy or dog you feel may be blue. Keep in mind blue is the color, the patterns can be solid, sable, saddle, with and without other patterns panda, brindle, white spotting ect.Do you want to know for sure if your GSD is blue or carries blue? There are several color testing companies out there and we have used a few different companies our selves. The most recent company we have used is Embark. Not only does it test for all colors, it screens for several genetic diseases all in one test. We will be using this on many of our dogs in the next year. Thank you Embark for creating such a valuable tool for breeding. Scroll through the albums and if you do not find what you are looking for please send me a message. Keep in mind you do not have to have a facebook page to see this page. Breeds The link has been copied! Get ready to be blown away by the blue hue beauty of the Blue German Shepherd, a rare and captivating canine breed that's bound to steal your heart! Imagine the iconic strength and intelligence of a traditional German Shepherd, but with a mesmerizing twist: a shimmering, silvery-blue coat that makes them stand out like a sapphire gem in a sea of pebbles. But wait, there's more to this extraordinary pup than meets the eye! These blue bombshells are fiercely loyal, intelligent, and hardworking, just like their classic counterparts. So, if you're eager to learn more about this wondrous woofer, buckle up and join us on a fun and enthralling journey as we explore the magical world of Blue German Shepherds. Trust us, you'll be howling with excitement before you know it! This unique variation of the beloved German Shepherd breed boasts a distinctive silvery-blue coat, which is the result of a recessive gene. Their striking appearance still maintains the classic features of a standard German Shepherd, including their athletic build, almond-shaped eyes, and perky ears. Though they share the same breed lineage, the Blue German Shepherd's fur color sets them apart from their traditional counterparts. However, it's important to note that their temperament, intelligence, and working abilities remain on par with those of their more commonly recognized relatives. In fact, these blue beauties are just as capable of excelling in various roles such as police work, search and rescue, and service dog positions. Decoding the Genetics of the Blue German Shepherd's Coat To truly appreciate the Blue German Shepherd, one must delve into the fascinating world of canine coat color genetics. The blue hue in these dogs results from a recessive gene that dilutes the black pigment, causing it to appear silvery-blue. Both parents must carry this recessive gene for their offspring to inherit the blue coat. In German Shepherds, two pigments determine the coat color: eumelanin black and phaeomelanin red. Various genes control the distribution and intensity of these pigments, which ultimately defines the final coat color. In the case of Blue German Shepherds, a dilution gene d impacts the eumelanin, creating their signature blue sheen. It's essential to note that although blue is a non-standard color for the breed, it doesn't negatively affect the dog's health, temperament, or abilities. Since the blue coat is a result of a recessive gene, it is much less common than the standard coat colors typically seen, such as the black and tan, sable, or solid black German Shepherd. The infrequency of blue coat inheritance means that breeders who specialize in this color variation often have fewer puppies available, making them highly sought after by enthusiasts. Despite their scarcity, it's important to remember that these striking dogs still require the same training, socialization, and care as any other German Shepherd. Their rarity should never be a reason to overlook their fundamental needs as intelligent, active, and loyal companions. Exploring Blue Color Variations While the Blue German Shepherd is already a rare and captivating variation, it's important to note that their blue hue can manifest in different shades and patterns. Some Blue German Shepherds may have a lighter, almost silver-blue coat, while others may exhibit a darker, steel-blue shade. This breathtaking array of blue tones is part of what makes this breed so enchanting. Additionally, the blue color may appear in various patterns, including blue and tan, solid blue, or even blue sable. Each of these patterns further highlights the uniqueness and diversity of the Blue German Shepherd, making them truly remarkable in the world of canine coat colors. The Blue German Shepherd Temperament A Blue German Shepherd's captivating coat color doesn't change the breed's inherent temperament, which is characterized by loyalty, intelligence, and a strong work ethic. These dogs are known for their versatility in performing tasks, be it as police dogs, search and rescue workers, or service animals. However, it is essential to note that this coat color does not change the breed's inherent temperament, which is what makes them such a remarkable and sought-after dog. One of the most prominent characteristics of a Blue German Shepherd is their loyalty. These dogs are incredibly devoted to their owners and will do anything to protect them. This trait makes them an ideal choice for families looking for a loyal and affectionate pet that will provide a sense of security. In addition to their loyalty, Blue German Shepherds are also highly intelligent. They are quick learners and respond well to training. This trait makes them a popular choice for police and military work, where their ability to learn and follow commands is essential. Another defining trait of this breed is their strong work ethic. Blue German Shepherds are known for their versatility in performing various tasks, such as search and rescue, service animals, and police work. They are incredibly diligent and take their work seriously, making them a dependable and valuable asset in any working environment. When it comes to raising a Blue German Shepherd, socialization and training from a young age are crucial. Proper socialization helps to ensure that your dog is comfortable in various situations and environments. This, combined with consistent training, will help your Blue German Shepherd develop into a well-rounded, confident, and friendly dog that is eager to please and protect its loved ones. Exercise and Training for Blue German Shepherds As with any German Shepherd, the blue variation requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to maintain their health and happiness. These dogs are highly active and need daily walks, playtime, and training sessions to keep them physically fit and mentally sharp. Activities such as hiking, fetch, and agility training, or a flirt pole can be excellent ways to engage your Blue German Shepherd and channel their energy. Training should begin early and be consistent, as these intelligent dogs thrive on structure and guidance. Positive reinforcement methods, such as praise, treats, and toys, are most effective for training a Blue German Shepherd. Keep in mind that this breed is known for its high intelligence, so challenging them with new commands or advanced training is an excellent way to keep them engaged and eager to learn. Remember, a well-exercised and well-trained Blue German Shepherd is a happy and content companion that will bond closely with their family, showcasing their loyalty and affection. High-quality dog food, formulated for their size, age, and activity level, is essential to support their overall well-being. Always consult with your veterinarian for personalized recommendations and monitor your dog's weight to prevent obesity, which can lead to various health issues. Blue German Shepherds are susceptible to the same health concerns as their standard counterparts, including hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and bloat. Regular veterinary check-ups, a healthy diet, and proper exercise can all help minimize the risk of these conditions and ensure your dog enjoys a long, happy life. Balanced Diet A balanced diet is essential to ensure your Blue German Shepherd gets all the necessary nutrients for optimal health. High-quality dog food, formulated for their size, age, and activity level, is recommended to support their specific needs. Avoid giving them table scraps or human food, which can be harmful to their health. Always consult with your veterinarian for personalized recommendations, as some dogs may require a special diet due to health conditions or allergies. Weight Management Obesity is a common issue among dogs and can lead to various health problems, including joint issues, diabetes, and heart disease. Monitor your Blue German Shepherd's weight and adjust their diet and exercise routine accordingly to prevent obesity. Follow the recommended portion sizes on the dog food label, and avoid overfeeding or giving too many treats. Regular Veterinary Check-ups Blue German Shepherds are prone to certain health conditions, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and bloat. Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to detect any health issues early and get prompt treatment. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations on preventive care, such as vaccinations, parasite control, and dental cleanings. These dogs have a double coat, which consists of a dense, insulating undercoat and a protective outer coat. Regular brushing, at least two to three times per week, is necessary to remove loose hair and minimize shedding. During shedding seasons , daily brushing may be needed to keep your home hair-free and your dog comfortable. In addition to brushing, routine grooming should include regular teeth cleaning, nail trimming, and ear cleaning to prevent infections and maintain overall hygiene. By establishing a consistent grooming routine, you can keep your Blue German Shepherd looking and feeling their best. To groom a Blue German Shepherd, follow these simple steps: Brush their coat two to three times per week with a slicker brush or pin brush to remove loose hair and prevent matting. Clean their teeth two to three times per week with a soft-bristled toothbrush and dog toothpaste to maintain good oral hygiene. Trim their nails regularly to prevent discomfort and joint problems. Clean their ears with a cotton ball or soft cloth and a dog ear cleaning solution to prevent infections. The Impact of Blue Color on Health The blue coat color in German Shepherds is a result of a recessive gene, and it does not inherently affect the dog's overall health. Blue German Shepherds are just as healthy and capable as their traditionally colored counterparts when it comes to their physical abilities and temperament. However, it's essential to choose a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health of their dogs over coat color. Reputable breeders will ensure that their breeding dogs undergo necessary health tests and screenings to minimize the risk of genetic health issues in their puppies. As long as you choose a responsible breeder, the blue color should not impact the health or well-being of your Blue German Shepherd. Interpreting the Significance of Blue in Various Dog Breeds The blue coat color is not exclusive to German Shepherds; several other dog breeds also exhibit this captivating hue. In most cases, the blue color results from the same genetic factors: a dilution of the black pigment eumelanin. Some dog breeds where blue coats can be seen include: Australian Cattle Dogs. This recessive gene dilutes any black pigment on the dog including coat color, nose leather, foot pads, toe nails, lips, etc. It also affects their eye color. Blue pups have a beautiful light gray coat as babies, as they age however is usually darkens up quite a bit, the ones that darken up are called "steel" blues. To the untrained eye, they can be mistaken for regular blacks. There is also "Powder" blues, they tend to lighten up in color and always stay a very noticeable gray color. Powder blues are not seen very often. A blue pup with sable markings We have a couple blues and a few dogs who carry the blue gene. We choose these dogs first and foremost because their temperament, structure and health aligns with the goals of our breeding program. A beautiful unique color is just icing on the cake of an already exceptional dog. Our non-traditional color lines have some of the highest hip ratings in the US! We have produced non-traditional colored GSDs that compete in obedience, agility, nose work, etc. I personally love the non-traditional colored German Shepherds. These colors are been in the breed since the beginning and our foundation girl Rose just happened to be a blue! Final Thoughts German Shepherds can be of different colors — tan, red, sable, liver, black, white, gray, or a mix of them. This article is devoted to one more very interesting and rare variety of this breed — a blue German Shepherd dog. You will learn about the origins of this color in dogs caused by genetics, their appearance and behavior, popular myth and misconceptions related to them, and the possible differences of these animals from other Shepherd dogs. If you are interested in getting a loyal friend of magnificently unusual color and look, this information will be very helpful for you. The dogs are not really blue. It is a diluted black color that looks quite specific. Despite many myths and wrong beliefs, there are not any sufficient differences in the overall look and behavior of such doggies. Moreover, it is not a separate breed as some people may believe. That is why the history of a blue GSD started simultaneously with the history of a German Shepherd as a breed. Sometime in the middle of the 19th century, a retired German Cavalry officer, Max von Stephanitz by name, decided to breed the most perfect canines for his sheep farms. It took him about forty years to complete the process and obtain a working dog that could deal with herding and guarding. Of course, a blue coat German Shepherd is not navy-blue or sky-blue. It looks like its immediate predecessor — a wolf — but only a bit darker. Such a color is also called diluted black. Though, the latter combination can sometimes result in this if both parents do have it. Geneticists argue that it stands for blue or diluted black. This gene can completely block black, resulting in an ultimate blue. They are medium-to-large canines with a lifespan of years. These animals look beautiful and quite aesthetic. They are not allowed for shows, though, in the USA because the American Kennel Club considers the diluted color a big fault. Apart from such an unusual color, they have a different pigmentation of noses, eye rims, and paw-pads. There are some minor variations of this shading, such as bicolor, sable , saddle, or solid blue. You can also come across dark-steel blue or light-powder blue, and other variants. These colors look magnificent, indeed. So, if you are a German Shepherd enthusiast, this dog is right for you. Not all blue Shepherds have blue eyes. Even if a puppy was born with this eye color, it may change to light brown or amber over time. The coat can be either long or medium. It is doubled with a dense protective upper layer and a soft undercoat that helps withstand weather conditions. The blue GSD can shed a lot , so it needs frequent brushing and grooming all the time. Males grow to inches or cm tall, and their weight varies between pounds or kg. Females are smaller and more gracious. They are inches or cm tall and pounds or kg heavy. The color cannot determine the size of the dog, either. A blue coat German Shepherd does not make a good apartment dog because it is too big and needs a lot of activity and exercise. However, if you can provide your pet with enough room and regular movement, you can enjoy it as your house dog. A lot of energy requires good amounts of exercise. These dogs are intelligent, brave, faithful, and protective. They are quite independent and aloof to strangers if trained properly. That said, private homes and landed properties are the best space if you consider acquiring this animal. These dogs need a lot of socializing and dedicated training. If they do not receive that, they may express aggressiveness and separation anxiety. You cannot even think about chaining them up. Their temperament does not differ much, either. They are incredibly loving and owner-pleasing. That is why you should not leave them alone for a long time. They say that the diluted genes can cause color dilution alopecia. However, this characteristic is true for Dobermans but not Shepherds. They include elbow and hip dysplasia. Dysplasia is a condition when the joints are formed in the wrong way, so they become painful over time. It may even result in lameness. This condition is a characteristic of all big dogs, not only German Shepherds, and it does not relate to their color. Like all other dogs bred from a single bloodline, Shepherds can suffer from specific genetic mutations. They include degradation of the spinal cord which is called degenerative myelopathy. It is a slowly developing and non-painful condition that becomes more obvious when the animal gets older. They are also prone to congenital heart defects, for example, patent ductus arteriosus, pulmonic stenosis, and aortic stenosis. Receiving health certificates from the breeder , including X-ray test certificates, will spare you from the need to spend a lot of money on veterinary care. It is highly appreciated by dog lovers for its stunning color, though breeders are not interested in raising these dogs because such animals cannot participate in shows and competitions. All these factors cause higher prices of such animals. The champion pedigree dogs will cost much more. Those Shepherds who have the show line or protection traits may even cost more. Such dogs do not look intimidating or scary. It goes without saying that their unusual color does not add much to their overall look as an aggressive and dangerous beast. True enthusiasts of this color know well that such animals look very attractive, and their magnificent wolf-like look adds a lot to the overall appreciation and love. Blue Shepherds are not useless just because they are not allowed for shows in America. They can still participate in IPO, nose work, and agility events. Moreover, they can be effective family protectors and companions because they are very loyal and intelligent. This is not a separate breed but just a color variation of a German Shepherd caused by a specific gene combination. The gene affects eumelanin the dark pigment , so no signs of black can be preserved. The diluting gene does not influence the temperament of such dogs. They are not more aggressive or disobedient than any other color of German Shepherds if raised and trained properly. The color of the coat caused by this specific gene combination does not influence health. A blue German Shepherd dog can suffer from the same health issues as other Shepherds of different colors, but there are no additional gene-related health issues. No, it is not. This is just a variation of a GSD caused by a specific combination of genes. The black color is diluted, resulting in a blue-and-gray tint. All the other characteristic features of the breed are the same as for all the rest colors of German Shepherds. Is a blue GSD a rare dog? Yes, it is. Moreover, most breeders are not interested in raising blue-coated dogs because they are not allowed for shows. What color variations can a blue German Shepherd dog have? However, they can have such pattern variations as solid blue, blue and tan, blue bicolor with minor tan spots , and blue sable. Are blue Shepherds purebred? Yes, they are pedigree dogs, but not a mixed breed. They appear in purebred litters among other puppies due to the gene combination but they are as genetically pure as all others. A recessive gene that causes this unusual color has been already recognized by the American Kennel Club as pure, though they are still forbidden or disqualified from shows and appearance competitions. Are there any specific health issues in blue Shepherds? The blue color of the coat does not result in any specific health issues. These dogs are as healthy, strong, and energetic as their counterparts of another color. They may be prone to the same hip and elbow dysplasia and heart and joint problems as other dogs if bred or cared for improperly. Final Thoughts When you want to acquire a blue GSD, you should understand the overall needs and requirements of German Shepherds but not only of those whose coat is blue. You should know how to manage, take care of , and control it. Consider whether you have enough time and patience for everyday reinforcement, training, and exercise. These dogs need a lot of living space because they are full of energy. Keeping them in a small apartment is not the best idea. You should also keep in mind that a blue coat German Shepherd is a heavy shedder, so it has quite specific grooming requirements. Remember that adopting such an animal is not just a fashion statement but a serious responsibility. 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. It's true - there are German Shepherds that are blue. In fact, German Shepherd Dogs come in various colors and also in a lot of different color patterns too. Others say that the blue colour is simply a gene mutation, and as such the blue German Shepherds should never be bred from, and overtime the gene should be bread out of the species completely. The blue German Shepherd, technically, a diluted Black Shepherd with 2 recessive genes. The Dd dilution gene affects coat colour in the main, but can also change the colour of eyes and noses. All coat colours and patterns are controlled by a set or group of genes that work together. In standard German Shepherds you will see descriptions and breakdowns that speak of the A genes, which control the black and red colouring in the dog through the release of melanin, and this affects the generic base colour and variations. However, the colouring of the blue German Shepherd is controlled by a different gene, the D gene spoken of earlier. All genes come in pairs, and it takes the presence of the big D and little d pair to produce the blue German Shepherd. The big D produces full strength coat colour and is the dominant gene, and the little d produces a dilute colour, which is the recessive gene. For the Blue Shepherd to be created he needs two copies of the diluted recessive gene, one from each parent, in order to have the diluted blue fur. If both parents have blue fur color their offspring will have it also however it is also possible for the color to appear in regular black and tan German Shepherd Dogs if both parents have the recessive genes. In addition to the above, the Blue German Shepherd takes three variations in blue colour, they come in blue and black, blue and sable and blue and tan, and again it is all dependent on the mix of different genes. Additionally, the blue German Shepherd can also be a variety of lighter and darker blues. Steel blue is the darker shade, and powder blue is the lighter of the two. It can be difficult to identify a steel blue on his own, but when you stand him next to a black German Shepherd, you can easily tell the difference in colour. How do they look? If you've never seen one of these dogs just imagine that everywhere there is black on the GSD normally, that you now see kind of a dusty grey colour. In some cases the blue might look kind of dusty, like someone spilled flour on the dog's coat but then in other cases it might be more of a darker gunmetal colour. Although it is rare and frowned upon by the AKC don't let the blue colour scare you away. A healthy blue German Shepherd is a very handsome animal and has all the same loyal and intelligent traits as regular colored German Shepherds. Many owners who have an unfavourably coloured German Shepherd have suggested that their pups face colour discrimination in events even in competitions where color should not be judged. The males will weigh between 65 and 90 pounds, and they will measure 24 to 26 inches in height from paw to shoulder, also known as the withers. The females will weigh between 50 and 70 pounds and will measure 22 to 24 inches at the withers. Additionally, it is common for the blue German Shepherd to have lighter coloured eyes, such as light blue, golden brown or yellow compared to the darker eyes of normal colored German Shepherds. Again, this is controlled by the recessive genes explained above. Because of their appearance, the blue German Shepherd is often mistaken for a blue Malinois, or with yellow eyes can often look similar to a dark grey wolf. They are super affectionate with their immediate family and enjoy a cuddle on the sofa and lounging around home. The blue German Shepherd is known for their confident and courageous personality. If properly trained and socialized their natural guarding tendencies work great in a home environment. Blue German Shepherds can also be aloof with strangers, or outsiders of the pack if improperly socialized but if raised correctly they are lovely, loyal dogs. The blue German Shepherd, like any other German Shepherd, is a medium energy dog and requires up to 60 minutes of exercise a day. High intensity exercise that tests their mental abilities as well as their physical are their favorite. Your dog would also require mental stimulation throughout the day, such as playing interactive games with his you, patrolling the yard, or taking part in training sessions. Because of their guarding tendencies early socialization is key to a happy hound and household! They are working dogs, and they like to pull if they are not trained properly. We also recommend crate training from a young age. Unlike other breeds, such as the French Bulldog, the colour blue is not indicative of health issues or problematic personality traits. The diluted gene is often linked to health issues in other breeds, such as Colour Dilution Alopecia in Weimaraner, but the blue German Shepherd is not known to suffer any diluted colour related health issues. Simply put, the blue German Shepherd is simply a colour variation, and their health is exactly the same as a traditional coloured German Shepherd. Elbow and Hip Dysplasia is an abnormal formation in the elbow and hip joints which is prevalent in larger breeds of dogs. Over time this formation can cause pain in their joints and can often lead to crippling arthritis in older dogs. Because German Shepherds are susceptible to bloat, it is advised to spread food across several sittings during the day. The exact amount of food will vary on the size of your dog and their activity levels throughout the day. Grooming The blue GSD often has a medium length outercoat with a dense undercoat. Due to the thick undercoat, they are heavy shedders. To keep their coat nice throughout the year you will need to brush them 2 or 3 times a week. During shedding season you will need to brush them every day. You should wash your GSD every 6 to 8 weeks to keep the coat clean and help with shedding. Specialist dog shampoos and shedding products help make managing the coat easier. It is possible for blue German Shepherds to have a long coat but it is very rare. Because their colour is more on the rare side, you may end up paying a slightly higher premium for this colour of the breed. These dogs are rarer than their tan and black saddle siblings i. This can make it difficult to find one to buy. German Shepherds are larger dogs, and can have large litter sizes. With an average of eight puppies in a litter; a blue German Shepherd puppy may show up unexpectantly. If you would prefer to adopt, the German Shepherd Club of America has a list of available rescues and rescue centres all over the country. Adopting A Blue German Shepherd On the other hand, if you are considering rescuing a German Shepherd, then the American German Shepherd Rescue Association has listed rescue centres dedicated to this breed and you may find some blues that need a home. Finishing Up Blue German Shepherds make great family pets. They are fun, intelligent, trainable, affectionate, loyal and protective. If they are socialized from a young age, they are great with children and other pets and will be a lovely member of the family for years. Naturally, all dogs have their own quirks that make them unique, just like all humans, and a blue GSD will be no different. Generally, however, German Shepherds are intelligent and fun to be around and love to spend hours playing in the garden with their family. If you do adopt one of these beautiful pups then it might be wise to let your neighbours know so that they think you have a stray wolf in your yard! For more information about the blue German shepherds, you can consult different social networks of groups responsible for the upbringing and care of the GSD, like the American Blue Bay Shepherd Association. 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Tweet Looking for free German Shepherd puppies? If you are looking for a German Shepherd, and your budget is tight, you can find your new best friend nearly free or at a decent price. You just have to know where to look. Most of the dogs they place are one year or more, but they often have puppies as well. This normally includes vaccinations, a heartworm test, and spay or neuter. For about one third of the price of a purebred GSD from a reputable breeder, you can give a deserving dog a second chance. Rescue groups specialize in finding forever homes for lost, abused or unwanted German Shepherds. They have extensive knowledge of every dog they place and can normally match you with the right dog for your unique situation. Do you have a German Shepherd rescue success story to tell? Adopt a German Shepherd It may take some patience and persistence, but you can find a nearly free German Shepherd from a local shelter. If they don't currently have puppies, check back often. Or ask them to call you as soon as they get one. The adoption fee will normally cover an initial vet checkup with puppy shots and a spay or neuter. This is cheaper than the cost of a purebred German Shepherd from a rescue group. One quarter of all shelter dogs are purebreeds. Why adopt a dog? You may be their last hope. Many shelters only hold dogs for a week. If they are relinquished by their owner, they are on the short list for euthanasia, as they are not considered lost and no one will be coming to look for them. My Begian Malinois , Ryder, was 48 hours away from being put down after his owner signed him over. Search for a local animal shelter. Don't make price your primary consideration. Backyard breeders and puppy mills price low to sell quickly. Avoid these unscrupulous breeders. Even if an ad reads AKC registered dogs , this is not necessarily a sign of a quality dog. Be aware that Puppy Mills also use this as a lure for unsuspecting buyers. Exercise patience. You don't have to break the bank. Your new best friend is worth the wait. Jennifer here. I've been a fan of the German Shepherd breed for as long as I can remember. Ready for new homes: August 11, .Ready for new homes: September .Ready for new homes: October .Ready for new homes: November .Ready for new homes: December .Ready for new homes: June .GSDs are a versatile and highly intelligent breed capable of mastering complex obedience commands. Their intelligent versatility is just one of many unique factors that put GSDs head and shoulders above most other breeds in the canine world. The average GSD can grow to a shoulder height as high as 26 inches and are capable of equal parts grace and power. Because of this incredible mixture of intelligence, grace, and strength, they are the favorite breed of security experts from local K-9 police departments to every branch of the military across many different nations. GSDs are also capable of mastering the highest levels of show dog training making them among the most popular breeds of championship show dog organizations. There are plenty of reasons why German Shepherds have long been thought of as canine royalty. Select your new pup from one of our available litters and make your reservation with us. No problem. You can contact us at or or email us at vomragnar gmail. Our trainers can also train your pup for basic obedience, advanced obedience, and protection or security work. Your puppy will learn excellent manners and communication skills that will provide you with many years of a rich, full relationship with your German Shepherd. Design Please beware of scams and frauds! There are scams out there who use our brand. Their website may look exact the same since they duplicate our website or their domains look similar. Our website is vomragnar. Our brand name is patented. We are licensed breeders in Illinois. Please do not trust scammers and beware. Want to see our puppies available for sale? Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. Sound in mind and body, strong, functional, intelligent, trainable, courageous, and resilient. These are the natural qualities that can only be realized through the incredible genetics of purebred German Shepherds. We only import the best-of-the-best. Certified champions straight from Germany! Due to his home being burglarized in , Wayne decided to train dogs in tracking, obedience, and protection. His untrained Staffordshire Bullterrier was unable to protect his home and he then decided to obtain a Rottweiler for protection. Wayne continued to train Rottweilers up until the early 90s where he purchased his first German Shepherd. He was raised along side German Shepherds which had a huge impact toward his love and respect for the breed. At Kraftwerk K9, we honor the history of the German Shepherd. We here at Kraftwerk K9 care for and teach these world-class dogs to live up to their full potential. Our ethical breeding facility sits on 25 gorgeous acres of Washington soil and is available for touring before purchase. Take a look at our facility Learn more about our certified German Shepherds by calling today at or visiting our Available Dog page!

Bring fetch If you throw a ball for your dog and want him or her to bring it back to you, then the German dog command you need is bring. Bleib stay When your dog should stay put, use the German dog command bleib. Luckily, these two are super close to their English counterparts both in meaning and pronunciation. Lauf go Want to see your dog take off like a streak of lightning? Then teach him or her the German dog command lauf. Gib Laut speak What could be more adorable than a pup who barks on command? Platz lay Want your dog to lie down for a Leckerli treat? Then teach him or her the German dog command Platz. Whatever the reason, all good German dogs know that this means they should sich hinlegen lie down. Then train them with the German dog commands stopp and halt. Such search Looking to train your German-loving dog to search and rescue or maybe to just help you find your keys? Some dogs are trained to such for drugs, bombs and even trapped or missing people. Watch a German clip about one type of these working dogs on FluentU. You can also hear examples of the other terms in this list on FluentU. The language learning program has many authentic German videos—that is, videos that native German speakers actually watch, like movie clips, news segments and vlogs. Watch the videos with interactive subtitles, and save your favorite dog commands as flashcards on FluentU to review them with personalized quizzes. German dog commands are also great for building up your grammar skills. German dog commands are short and sweet and easy for dogs to understand, so both you and your dog will become bilingual with ease. Training your dog with German dog commands sounds darn cool. Speaking Deutsch German to your dog will impress your friends, not to mention that cutie—canine or otherwise—out on a stroll! If you have a German breed or mix, then why not be authentic and train them using German dog commands? And there you have it: 15 German dog commands you can use with your pooch. Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. Download If you liked this post, something tells me that you'll love FluentU, the best way to learn German with real-world videos. Knowing the best commands to teach your German Shepherd is essential to living happily with them. Commands for German Shepherds establish a two-way street of communication. First, there are basic commands, and then I jump right into more advanced commands and tricks. After getting a German Shepherd, new owners often complain about a lack of communication with their dogs. This makes teaching your GSD easier since you have an essential foundation built. You can also teach different commands for German Shepherds for fun, fitness, impulse control, and even bonding. Basic Commands for German Shepherds Your goal for training commands for your German Shepherd is to master the basics first. German Shepherd Dog training commands generally begin with the basics. Teaching your dog good manners and how to behave in public helps you to handle a large breed dog with confidence. These basic commands for your GSD are useful in your daily life and are a great place to start. A marker word is any word or sound such as a clicker used to mark when your German Shepherd does something correctly. The most common marker words are yes and good. But first, you must teach the meaning of this word to your dog so they understand. You must say the marker word or click the clicker followed immediately by a treat. Repeat your word, along with giving them a treat, until your dog becomes excited about the word. Name Recognition The foundation of German Shepherd training is teaching your dog their name. If you have a multi-dog home, then training their name will let your dogs know who needs to obey. Sit The sit command is part of basic training. It helps them settle down, stay still, and keeps them from jumping on guests. Sit is a great behavior to have on cue to teach your German Shepherd to ask for something they want, prevent them from darting out open doors, and keep them in the car for you to leash them before releasing them. Down The next command is down. Down teaches your German Shepherd to relax, settle for longer periods, and to rest until their next command. Having your German Shepherd in a relaxed down position provides you with better control. But, the most important command will be your following stay command. Stay Stay, while a basic command, is actually a more complex behavior. This is because in order for you to teach your German Shepherd to stay they need to resist distractions. This training is called proofing a behavior. Come Teaching your puppy the come command is a life-saving skill. The come command, also called the recall, is an essential life-saving skill you must teach your German Shepherd. Mastering this command not only gives your dog more freedom but also allows you to take your dog more places. When your dog understands the come command gives you more confidence because you know your dog will return when called. Speak Most owners find that teaching their German Shepherd to speak is much easier than training them to be quiet. The German Shepherd is bred as a watchful and alert companion and is a notorious barker. Generally, when your German Shepherd barks you can add in a command, such as speak, to capture their barking. Quiet As a herding breed, one of the jobs of the German Shepherd was to bark at predators or hazards. This is engrained in the breed. Early on, teach your German Shepherd to be quiet to help counteract their barking. They bark a lot by nature to ward off danger from their home and keep their family safe. Need help with your dog barking at strangers? Often thought of as one of the most useful German Shepherd training commands, the cue wait means to respect the boundary. The wait is also valuable when you need to have your dog pause in certain areas or rooms of your house. It only means your dog must hesitate until you give your permission to cross over the boundary where the wait due was delivered. Watch me or look at me is another great command to teach your German Shepherd. German Shepherds that learn this training are less likely to become distracted in public settings, learn patience while waiting for rewards, and develop better self-control skills. With everything else going on, watch me can get your dog in a better frame of mind. Plus, it allows you to give your dog another command to follow. There are also other ways to get your German Shepherd to listen to you , without a command. While out on walks you might need your dog to ignore old food in the dirt or a neighborhood cat or dog that has her attention. Telling her to leave it keeps her away from those distracting objects for a moment. Drop It Has your dog ever grabbed your shoes and ran through the house with them? If so, then you must teach your German Shepherd the drop it command. Train your dog to drop it by using the reward method to make the training positive. Repeating this training with different items of value, and always keeping your reward worth more than what she has to drop, will give you better results. Stand Why would you ever want to teach your German Shepherd the stand command? Stand also gets your dog up from another position like down or from a trick like a rollover. Especially useful for puppies, the settle cue lets your dog know they need to behave calmly. Heel The purpose of the heel command is to teach your German Shepherd to walk on a loose leash beside you. Have your GSD on your left side, which is the traditional heel side. Hold a treat in your left hand and guide your dog along the seam of your left leg while walking a few steps. Give her the treat for following along on a loose leash. For most herding breeds loose lead walking is a difficult behavior since dogs naturally walk faster than us. Training this command will help you to enjoy safer and more relaxed walks. You can also start training your German Shepherd to walk on a leash right now. You can introduce your dog to new commands to keep up their training skills or purely for entertainment. With the right set of commands, you can give your German Shepherd a job around the house to keep them mentally stimulated and out of trouble. Here are some training commands to give you something fun to teach your German Shepherd and keep their intelligent minds engaged. Maybe you want them to continue walking and pass another dog. Up Training your German Shepherd to get up on something is a great trick. Plus, if your dog learns to jump up when you ask, then they can join you on the couch for movie night, jump onto a stool for easier grooming time, or even increase their activity on walks. Off The off command tells your dog they need to place all four paws back on the ground. This means if they have paws on you, on someone else, or on the furniture they should get all of their paws onto the floor. Instead, teach them the off command so you can guide them with your voice. Shake An easy and cute trick to teach your German Shepherd is shake, also known as give paw. Teaching your dog to give you their paw even helps to desensitize your German Shepherd to having her paws touched. To spice things up with this trick, teach your dog to shake with each paw by naming them different commands. Little by little, your dog will slowly start to lean over to reach the reward. Some German Shepherds are more reserved and will need time to go into the rollover. Not all German Shepherds understand how to return a toy or ball to you once thrown. So, training your German Shepherd to fetch or bring will help them learn how to carry their toys to you for a game. Plus, fetch is a great way to exercise your dog to keep them fit and happy. Use take it to give them permission to have their food, treat, or toy. Go Potty If you want to train your dog to use the bathroom on cue then a potty command is useful. Go potty is a good cue to pair when your puppy does their business outside. After pairing the cue enough times, your German Shepherd learns that go potty is their command for using the toilet. Place instructs your dog to go to a designated spot, sometimes a platform or mat, and wait for the next cue. This is a great behavior to have in your repertoire. Imagine being able to send your German Shepherd to their place when someone knocks on your door. This trick takes more patience than rollover because your dog must stay very still to make the trick convincing. Pair this trick with a few others and you have a complete show for your next party. When your dog goes to bed she will lay down and remain there quietly. Unlike with her place command where she waits for your next words. You can also give your dog a treat to keep her busy and make her go to bed cue rewarding. Try a Kong toy for your German Shepherd that she chews to help relax her while in her bed. You can get your dog to stay in their bed longer by offering them the best bed for your German Shepherd. But, in the beginning, you might notice your new German Shepherd is hesitant to put her paws on you. Spin Spin is a beginner trick for German Shepherds. Use a bit of tasty food to lure your dog into a turn. Keep repeating this action, then pair the word spin with the behavior. For another challenge, teach your German Shepherd to spin the other way. Spin also helps your dog stay limber by stretching her neck and back muscles. Use the word free to tell your German Shepherd that she can go about her own way. For example, use free when releasing your dog from a wait at your back door into an enclosed yard. Before you give the free cue, always make sure the surroundings are safe and free from dangers. Instead, try the break command to teach your German Shepherd to stay near you for her next cue. Then, move on to the next cue so your dog keeps learning and improving. Training Command. The dog sits in front of you Guard The dog is more alert and looks for hazards Bite Dog bites an object that you want A list of GSD obedience commands for advanced training. Now that you have a list of training and obedience commands for your German Shepherd, you need to understand how to use them. Issuing your commands is essential to successful obedience training. Instead, you must first show them and then tell them exactly what you want. Make your command clear, concise, and consistent. There are four parts to command good performance. This alerts them that the words you say following their name are for them, unlike the hundreds of millions of other words you say in a day talking to others. A lure to perform the behavior. Naming the command you want. After multiple times of luring your GSD into position correctly, give the action a name. The reward for performing the behavior. When your dog performs the behavior correctly, praise them and offer them their tasty reward the lure for a job well done. Now you need to know if your dog understands the command you give. How many times do they need to get the command right? Aim for the correct response from your dog ten times in a row. If they correctly perform the action that matches the command you gave 10 times in a row, then: move on to increase your distance away from them when you give the command the time they hold the command and practice with different distractions vary your training environment. If you touch your dog while giving a command, your dog may pay more attention to your action of placing them into the position, rather than the command word. So, the command then loses its value for your dog, and your training becomes much harder. Come is the most important dog command to teach your German Shepherd. Let your dog run around in your house on the long lead. You can throw one of their favorite toys or a treat to get them moving away from you. You may also gently tug on the lead. Get down on their level by crouching and offer them a lure treat to understand what you want and entice them to come back to you. Once they come to you, give them their reward. Practice letting them wander, then using the word come to get them to you for their treat at least 10 times. But for now, start indoors in a quiet area. Another life-saving essential command is No. Most owners use no while their dog is performing an unwanted behavior. When your dog looks at you, offer them a more suitable behavior. Or, have them come to you for a tasty treat and put away the shoe. This is generally enough to get your dog to stop performing the action you want, or at least to get their attention so you can offer them a better behavior option. Your dog will quickly catch on as they learn what you expect from them. The stop command takes a bit of skill and timing since it requires your dog to quit moving. While it does take time and patience, it is essential you train your GSD to this basic command. Have them on a long lead to start for safety. Walk away to a distance of approximately 20 to 30 feet as long as your long lead is. Then, turn and face your dog without making eye contact. If you make eye contact, they may run to you thinking you want them to come. When you are ready, call your dog to you. As soon as they move, take a few steps towards them saying stop in a stern voice with your hand up with a flat palm facing them. This command works best when taught with both verbal and hand signals. The simple fact you are coming towards them makes them hesitate, which is a normal reaction. Always reward them with a tasty treat when they stop by going to them. Once they learn to stop on command, start extending the distance until they stop and stand, sit, or get into the down position at any distance on your verbal command. You will eventually train what command you want after the stop, such as a down or stay. But the most important thing to remember is that your dog stops. You always want to have a reliable stop in case of an emergency think about if your dog were to chase a squirrel or rabbit into a busy road. And, if your dog ever begins to pick up or sniff an unsavory item, then you can also use the German Shepherd leave it command for lesser emergencies. Sit is an easy enough command that even your puppy can learn it! Teaching sit is essential in creating the training relationship, as it is an excellent opening to a training session or a closer after a troublesome session when you want to end on a high note. Instead, move your hand with a tasty reward over your dog and lean over them a bit. Most dogs want to keep eye contact with the reward, which causes their head to go up and their rear end to drop to the ground. This is called luring your dog into position. Move your dog with the lure into the sit position. Once they get the action right while you say the command 10 times, start telling them to sit while you walk away at different distances. If you plan on having guests over, down is invaluable to prevent jumping or overexcited behavior. Do this by holding a treat on the ground a foot or two in front of them. Use the lure to get them moving into the down position. You may have to let them smell and see the lure in your hand. Once they go into position properly, say the word down and give them the treat. Repeat the down position 10 times correctly. Try having your dog perform down from both the sit position and from a standing position. It sometimes helps to take the treat and move under the nose and head, toward their bodies, in which case your dog should fold their legs under them to smell the treat. Work on the down command in different areas of your home and in varying distracting, but safe, environments so your dog learns to follow your command more reliably. Teaching the stay command takes plenty of patience and practice. The command is still in the beginner training category list because it is an essential skill. If your dog stands up to follow you—as they probably will—tell your dog to sit again. Lure them with a treat back into position. Then, once they sit, say stay. You can increase the steps you take back from your dog before you return to them for their reward. Lengthen this distance slowly as your dog learns impulse control and the stay command. Ultimately, your dog will stop following you, sit, and stay in its position. They will need more training for longer distances. Stay in safe areas to avoid your dog running off to chase a car, person, or animal. You could go out and spend a few hundred dollars on lots of tools to help you train your German Shepherd. Basic obedience equipment includes: a short five or six-foot heavy-duty leash with a padded handle a long at least feet lightweight lead a safety collar a collar that snaps apart if your dog gets hung up on an object and saves their life! Try this reflective leash with a padded handle to comfort your hands when you have a strong pulling German Shepherd. Buy a long leash of at least 20 feet for outdoor training. A long leash helps you maintain control while still allowing your dog to enjoy a playful romp and roll. This is the long leash many training professionals prefer because the clips withstand pulling and hold up well to consistent, daily use. Your final necessity is a breakaway collar. But, you can also use pea-sized amounts of fresh-cooked chicken or small bits of cheese. Pay attention to your dog during training, and you can tell which treats are their favorite by their willingness to perform the training. Buy a treat that is healthy and low in calories, preferably pick one from this list of the Best Healthy Treats for Your German Shepherd. Treats are how you pay your dog for their work. They also help build a positive bond between training and you, so that your dog is happy to engage in their training sessions. Using a training command list for your German Shepherd allows you to identify the commands that you need to work on. Place the list where you will see it often daily as a reminder to continue and work through your training. This allows you to understand where your training is and to begin the next, more advanced steps with your dog. Start with the beginning obedience items and keep adding a new command, preferably at a consistent pace. Once your GSD masters the new command, keep building on their training by adding in the next command. Keep your training sessions short, around 5 minutes long. And practice multiple times per day. Some handlers and trainers use a different version to those on the German Shepherd training commands list to train their dogs, but you can use whatever command works best for you and your GSD. Just remember to stay consistent with your command word. With a very young GSD, train for short periods. But train frequently throughout the day. Think of training in short bursts. Around 6 months of age, your GSD should know the basic commands—sit, stay, down, no, and come. Use this guide on the perfect exercise routine for your German Shepherd. German Shepherd Training Tips Stay patient and confident your dog will learn. Go easy and take your time. Make sessions short and simple—only 3 minutes long for a puppy and 5 to 10 minutes for an adult. Train in different areas where your dog is always safe. Start indoors, and work your way to outdoors that are more distracting. Remember, your most important tool while training is your good attitude. And a sick or over-excited dog is less responsive to any goodwill that comes their way. Try again the following day when you both are in better states of mind. A positive way to phase out rewards once your dog has mastered a distinct command is to present the reward as part of the training of a new command. Once your dog has mastered down, instead of providing a treat after giving them the down, offer them a lesser treat, verbal praise, or petting instead of their usual expected reward. Reintroducing Treats with a New Command Start training new commands with tasty treats again. Show them you still have a treat ready by letting them see and sniff the hand with the treat. But now they have to work for it a little more than usual by learning a new command. Once you have their attention, start teaching the new command. You can also use a popular toy instead of treats when training. Be sure you use a safe and durable toy, which will last through a strong chewer, like one of these durable toys for powerful German Shepherd chewers. A clicker is a small, hand-held tool that makes a slight clicking noise when you press a button. You can use your voice and see wonderful results using positive, reward-based training also known as lure and reward training. Give your dog the command from different distances. Practice your training in different positions and in different places of your home. Try stepping farther away every time you work through a command during your training session. Increasing the distance your dog performs the command is challenging because they want to stay close to you naturally. With time and repetition, you will train your German Shepherd to perform the command at almost any distance from you with success. Once your dog masters a command in a quiet environment, try training them in a more distracting environment. This could mean that you turn on the TV or radio, have your family in the room, or move near a window they like to look out. Ultimately, your dog learns that you still expect them to obey you, no matter the location or environment. Sometimes it will take time to adjust to the idea that a local park is a place for learning too. Keep working with them and stay positive. As you practice, your dog learns to tune out the distractions and pay more attention to your training and you. Remember to practice having your dog perform the command from different distances from you so they learn the command is the same, no matter your distance or location from them. And always, always, always… Make sure your dog is safe! Keep them on a short or long leash when outdoors! And stay aware of your surroundings, including busy roads, bicyclists, children playing, and other obstacles to avoid. Do you have problems getting your German Shepherd to listen to your commands? If your German Shepherd is not listening to commands, then you need to go back to their basic training commands. Your dog might also be feeling unwell, stressed, or need more exercise or their meals. You also need to train your German Shepherd not only to the basic commands but also in various locations and distances. You might need to take a day off your usual training every now and then to add some excitement to their lives. Go back to the last command they performed right and begin from there. Or, just play a game instead where you can incorporate your training. Try a few games from this list of fun German Shepherd Games! Using the German Shepherd Training Commands the Right Way The cornerstone for good training is consistency, positive rewards, timing, a favorable attitude, and patience. Use this German Shepherd commands list to improve the relationship between you and your dog. Begin with the easiest commands on the list for your German Shepherd and work your way through to the more difficult commands. Your GSD wants to please and is one of the smartest dogs. Having and using a list of German Shepherd training commands takes the stress off confusing the basic commands and gives you a goal to aim for. Understanding how to use the list to create a well-behaved dog truly makes you a boss level trainer! The valuable book gives you the tools for helping turn your playful pup into a happy, healthy, well-adjusted adult. The expert authors cover all the questions that a new owner generally has, as well answering questions you might not know to ask. Brain training is fun and teaches obedience skills! Enjoy a perfect performance using kind and scientifically-based training in a private group with thousands of others using a brain training program to train their dogs! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. It's easier for the officer to learn a few German words than to retrain the dog with new commands. Zook is the English pronunciation for the German command: Such. Such means to search or track. It is a common German dog training command for K9 police dogs. By using German, your dog will easily distinguish between when you are having a conversation and when you are calling commands. German is a clear, distinctive language for dogs to understand. And it helps that they can be fun to say or yell. Watch an Indiana Jones movie for proof! Related: Best Dog Training Books You can reteach a particular behavior if your dog struggles with the English command. For dogs that have learned to respond poorly to an English command, you can reteach the desired behavior using the German command. This gives you a fresh start to train your dog with the proper response. Impress Your Friends Not only are dog commands in German fun to say, but it can impress your friends that your dog responds to a foreign language. It is a practical party trick and a great conversation topic. Do Dogs Respond Better to German? But German commands are short, easy, and contain attention-getting hard consonants, so German commands are easy for your dog to identify that you are speaking to them. Training your dog to respond to German commands is a personal choice. But if you decide to teach your dog German training commands, start as early as you can because it will be less confusing for a puppy than for an older dog. Sit, stay, and down are probably the easiest and most essential to teach your dog first. Learn how to pronounce the German word correctly. Start with one command at a time. Focusing on only one command at a time will keep your dog from getting confused and keeps training simple. Speak clearly and consistently when training. If you are training a dog that already has learned the English command, then you will want to first use the German command and then follow with the English word to help with the association. Then eventually remove saying the English word. Use repetition. During the training session, repeat the command several times in a row to help your dog make the association between the word and the action. Use treats to reward your dog for positive reinforcement. Treats motivate your dog by holding its attention and desire to train. Training treats are an excellent choice because they are small and often leave the dog wanting more. Be patient. Training takes time and lots of repetition. Make training fun by creating a game out of it with your dog and showering them with love. The more positive reinforcement you give, the greater your dog will desire to please you. Depending on the age of your dog, learning the commands may be easy or slow. If you have an older dog that already knows basic English commands, you may want to choose other commands to teach or work with your dog to transition from English to German. What is the Best Age to Train a Dog? Puppies are the best age to train obedience commands because they are a clean slate. But young puppies have very short attention spans. An ideal age to train your dog is when they are about weeks old. At this age, they are old enough to follow basic commands but are not set in behavioral patterns yet. Can dogs learn commands in two languages? A new brain scan study conducted in January discovered that dogs can recognize different languages. Dog schools use visual messages when they begin training. They start by teaching them with visual cues and then move on to spoken directions. Small dog treats allow for several repetitions before the dog becomes disinterested. To avoid creating a bribe instead of a reward, keep the treat hidden. Using The Best German Dog Commands is a Smart Way to Train Your Dog Because German dog commands make it easy for your dog to distinguish between a command and a conversation, training your dog using german commands is really smart. Use the German words to introduce the desired command, and remember to have patience. Teaching an Old Dog New Commands Because it takes older dogs longer to learn new tricks and commands, be patient. It may take more time and more repetition, but you can teach your old dog to respond to German commands. If you teach an old dog a German command for an English command they already know, you will want to use both the English and German commands together. Exercise patience, love, and lots of repetition, and your old dog can learn too. Rogue Pet Science recommends using their all-natural pet treats to help train your dog. A dog that is well trained is a pleasure to live with and also safer in your home and while out in the community. Along with helping your dog be more manageable, and teaching them how to behave in all environments, dog training is also fun and provides hours of mental stimulation for intelligent dogs, like German shepherds. How many commands you teach your German shepherd is up to you but most of them can easily learn all 29 on this list: 1. Sit Teaching your dog to sit on command is useful throughout their life. Teaching your dog to sit is also very helpful when trying to calm an excited dog or when meeting new people. Come Teaching the come or recall command is a very basic, potentially lifesaving, must do. All dogs need to learn that the word come means that they stop what they are doing and come back to you. Before taking your dog off leash, or into areas with lots of distractions, they should master the come command. Wait Wait is a useful command to teach because it teaches your dog to pause and wait for directions and get permission from you. Use wait before walking out the door, getting in or out of the car, greeting guests, at mealtimes, the list is endless. Stay Teaching a dog to stay is one of the most important commands they can learn. This command should be reinforced throughout their lifetime, in case you ever need it in an emergency. Dogs should also learn to be released from all commands and this will help reinforce that when practicing their training. Break or release This command is used to release your dog from their sit, stay, down, or other commands. Down Teaching the down or belly on the floor command is another go-to and should be started in puppyhood. This command is very useful in many situations but one important place is at the vet, during an exam or nail trimming. The down command is also great for getting control over an overly stimulated dog. Stand Use this command when you want your dog to stand up on all four paws from a down or a sit. This command is helpful when you want your dog to hold still to be handled, groomed, or for an exam at the vet. Off The off command is used to teach a dog to remove their paws off something, such as a person or furniture. No Just like kids, dogs need to be taught that no means no for their own safety and your sanity. No is used to stop them from taking unwanted action. Leave it Similar and often interchanged with no, the leave it command is used to teach your dog to leave something alone. Taught in conjunction with the leave it command, the command helps teach impulse control and also teaches them to look to you for permission to take something. Drop it Next comes the drop it command. By teaching your dog to drop something, you will help protect their health and your valuables. Heel Teaching your dog to heel, or properly walk on a leash, is a vital command for all German shepherds to learn. They need to learn how to walk anywhere politely. Here Here means come and stand in front of me or at my side. This is a great obedience command to use to begin an off-leash heel, when putting on a leash, or to get your dog next to you. Take care of business You can use whatever command you choose for going outside to take care of business go pee and pooh , just be consistent with the word you choose. Place Teaching your dog to place, or go to a designated place in the house such as their bed, is very important and a lifesaver when you need them out of the way so that you can easily get them out of the kitchen, away from a mess, to calm them down, or remove them from a situation. It is also useful in teaching them how you want them to get physically get into the car. Back up Teaching your dog to back up is fun and also helpful when you need them to move out of the way by backing up. Stop Teaching your dog to stop teaches them to immediately stop what they are doing and stand still. This is a great command to improve impulse control but is also useful in many situations, including emergencies and when playing games. Kennel up If your dog is crate trained, use this command to send them to their crate. Roll over Roll over can be used for more than a cute trick. It can be useful when grooming, looking your dog over, or at the vet. Go eat By giving your dog permission to go eat, you help prevent them from going after their food before the bowl is on the floor, and they also learn to wait for permission to eat so it helps improve impulse control. It communicates exactly what you expect from your dog and is especially handy when traveling or staying at new places. Go out Teaching the opposite, go out from a room is also great for setting expectations and communicating exactly what you want your dog to do. Quiet Teaching the quiet command teaches your dog that they need to be quiet and stop barking. This command is great for many reasons but especially when traveling or when they are barking and you need them to hush. Speak The opposite of quiet, teaching your dog to speak actually reinforces the quiet command because the dog learns both. Teaching your dog to bark on command is fun and also can be useful, for example if you want to warn someone that a dog is nearby. It is a means to establish communication cues that enable you to understand each other and develop a bond. Additionally, trained GSDs are more confident and have lower tendencies to develop behavioral issues simply because they know how to interact with and respond to their environment. Read on to learn some of the most useful German Shepherd training commands you can teach your dog. German Shepherd Training Commands There are an infinite number of commands you can teach any dog, especially one with the work drive of a German Shepherd. Some of them are useful in everyday situations while others are simply for fun, entertainment, and bonding. These 13 commands will enable you to live harmoniously with your GSD and enjoy the best traits of the breed: 1 Sit Teaching your dog to sit is one of the most useful commands because it helps them stay still and settle down. Eventually, it can also be a way for them to greet you or ask for something. While in this position, they are less likely to run off or pull on a leash. It is one of the most useful commands to keep your dog out of trouble and out of the way. Mastering this command enables you to give your dog some independence. Calling on their name prompts them to become more alert and ready to obey. This is especially useful when you have multiple dogs at home. Additionally, the speak and quiet commands are useful to control needless barking and reduce excessive noise. Getting them to look at you on command is especially useful in public settings where there can be many distractions. This keeps them more focused and work-oriented as compared to loose-leash walking. This is essential to keep them away from potentially hazardous finds. This is useful to keep them out of the way when doing chores or entertaining guests. Additionally, it helps them settle down even when things are going on around them. These might be purely for entertainment or to give your dog a job to do. Either way, these 12 training commands will give you something fun to do while providing excellent mental stimulation: 1 Shake Hands Shake or shake hands is a fun way to say hello to strangers or introduce your friends to your dog. But beyond a greeting, this is a good way to teach them to offer their paw for inspection or grooming. It is also a fun part of your repertoire when you show off to guests. Nevertheless, you can teach your dog to hug for times when your mood needs a little pick-me-up. This is also especially useful for dogs providing emotional support. The more dramatic, the better. Giving them their own bin and teaching them to tidy up their own toys is definitely a doable chore that makes them feel useful around the house. This can also be used to prompt them to search, sniff, and track. It also gives your dog more ways to use their working abilities around the house. This is typical among dogs that participate in Schutzhund but not limited to that purpose. Generally, teaching your dog commands in another language lowers the risk of them following commands from other people. This is especially important for personal protection and service dogs. German is a good option not only because it has been used for decades to teach GSDs but also because the nature of the language itself sounds terse and forceful, which is effective for commanding dogs. Here are some of the most common German Commands for German Shepherds, along with the pronunciation of each: English Commands.

Because they are a cross between two dog breeds, the Goberian can have any mix of characteristics from the parent breeds. They may take on more traits of one parent or have a combination of both. Goberians are a relatively new designer dog breed that tends to be friendly, affectionate, and gentle. Because they are a mixed dog breed, they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club. They tend to have a gentle and loyal nature. Goberians tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can get along with other pets in the house, but may need to be introduced and socialized for it if they inherit the Siberian Husky prey drive. The Goberian is a moderately adaptable dog breed. Because of their energy, they are best suited for larger homes with a securely fenced-in yard where they can run. They can adapt to apartment living if they get enough exercise and attention. They tend to prefer cooler climates, but they do well in just about any climate. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold. Despite the occasional independent streak, a Goberian thrives on affection and loves to be near their families. Plus, they tend to be easily bored, so they do not tend to do well with long periods of alone time. As with any hybrid dog breed, a Goberian can inherit all, a mix, or none of the potential health problems common to the parent breeds. Talking to the breeder about the genetic history of both of the parents and asking to see any health clearances can help ease potential concerns you may have. In general, the Goberian is intelligent and learns quickly, but the overall trainability of them will vary. They can be moderately easy to train or more difficult depending on the mix of characteristics from the two parent breeds. If the Goberian puppy takes more after their Golden Retriever parent, they will be easier to train and eager to please you. However, if they take after their Siberian Husky parent, they will be more difficult to train as they will be more stubborn and independent. Regardless, you will want to plan for puppy training classes, especially if you are a first-time dog owner. Plus, the classes offer opportunities for early socialization, which is also important. Because the Goberian is a mixed dog breed, their coat can come in a variety of coat colors. Their coat tends to be long and dense and may be straight or slightly wavy. They can range from light to moderate shedding year-round and may have two heavier shedding sessions as the seasons change. Bathing is an occasional requirement as needed and many Goberians only need a bath every months. Trimming nails on a monthly basis is usually sufficient. You want to make sure their ears are not trapping moisture, dirt, or debris that could lead to an ear infection. Thankfully, you can help prevent dental disease in your dog by implementing a good dental care plan. You can also supplement your efforts with vet-approved dental hygiene treats and chews, and even a specially-formulated dental care diet. The Goberian is a high-energy dog breed. They require a lot of daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. In addition to daily walks and some playtime, your Goberian is likely to enjoy running with you, going on a hike , and maybe even swimming. A fully-grown Goberian usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. A Goberian generally lives years. Goberian Puppies for Sale Thanks for visiting our Goberian page! Currently, we do not have any Goberian puppies available, but we can alert you when new Goberian puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address! Website: Prism Golden Retrievers 9. Their dogs are able to run and play freely, as well as chase birds. This is an ideal setting for the animals, who enjoy a comfortable and active lifestyle. This breeder is a proud member of the Golden Retriever Club of America and the Mid-Florida Golden Retriever Club, meaning they know exactly what it takes to produce healthy and happy golden retrievers. All of the dogs raised by this family are considered to be part of the family. This is because the family thinks of them as best friends, and are truly part of their family. This Golden Retrievers breeder only has litters maybe once a year because they strongly believe in quality over quantity. All of their dogs are extensively vetted for health and beauty standards. They get to see first-hand how the pups are progressing and what areas need more work. The Lucky pup Ranch is family-operated and oriented to provide the highest quality puppies and they are proud of it. The environment and care they provide for their puppies are one of the most important aspects of what they do. All pups are raised in a safe environment and they care for them with great consideration. They never keep their pups in cages; but instead of that they give them plenty of space to roam freely in large areas where they can develop fully, both physically and socially. Aside from that, Lucky Pup Ranch treats its puppies like family and understands they will go on and become part of other families. As such, each puppy is trained and treated lovingly. Golden Retriever Breeder Info:. Cavapoo puppies are happy-go-lucky dogs that train nicely, are easy to care for and even easier to love. Which means that they possess endless qualities, skills, and incredibly cute looks. Cavapoos have a kind and friendly nature, a passion for snuggles, and an upbeat personality. Simply put, these puppies make an amazing addition to any lucky family. They are small to medium sized dogs with lots of energy to spare and a lot of love to give. Mini Aussiedoodles are highly intelligent dogs that can adapt to any lifestyle. They love their owners dearly and want to be with them at all times. These puppies are also extremely outgoing and friendly and will greet everyone they meet with tail wags and enthusiasm. They are a great fit for a family with children and for new or experienced dog owners. The mini Goldendoodle is the no. Everyone loves these puppies for their blended looks and fantastic personalities. Mini Goldendoodle puppies love to explore the world, go on hikes with their owners, and cuddle evenings away. A Shih Tzu and Poodle mix, the Shih Poo puppy is a perfect blend of dashing looks and winning personalities. They are intelligent, gorgeous, and very well behaved around children, dogs, and other house pets. Shih Poo puppies are also attentive to their owners and easy to train. They are fond of attention, fun games, and daily snuggles.

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 Chicago Wisconsin 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! I'd like to subscribe to be notified of upcoming litters If you are human, leave this field blank. Each new litter of Goldendoodles is unique and may inherit various features from each parent breed. That is why it is crucial to pick a reliable Golden doodle breeder with expertise in both parent breeds. As all dog owners know, every new puppy has a unique personality waiting to develop with your love and care. The standard is the largest Goldendoodle size, ranging in height and weight from 25 — 28 inches to 90 pounds. Typically, Standard Goldendoodle weighs between 50 and 65 pounds and stands between 23 and 25 inches in height. Families adore standard Goldendoodles because of their prominent playful personalities and peaceful, friendly demeanors. The Miniature or Mini Goldendoodle grows between 15 and 20 inches tall and weighs between 25 and 35 pounds when fully grown. This size Goldendoodle is the sweet spot — people who live in large homes with enclosed yards and those who live in condominiums or townhouses love this size. These little cuties weigh less than 25 pounds usually pounds and range in height from 10 to 18 inches. Our Toy Goldendoodles have the sweetest personalities and hypoallergenic qualities, making them another popular choice. Raising puppies is our job, passion, and calling. Each of our healthy puppies for sale will envelop the characteristics mentioned above but have individualized, unique qualities that we want you to look for. A good breeder in Illinois will only show you what they want you to see, but a reputable breeder will go the extra mile to ensure health, promise a warranty and be fully honest with your next Goldendoodle puppy. Our parent dogs and puppies undergo a comprehensive set of health and DNA tests to ensure you get the healthiest dog possible from health tested parents. All of our adorable Goldendoodles come with a 2-year written genetic health guarantee. As Professional Goldendoodle breeders, we do everything possible to ensure that our Goldendoodles are the happiest and healthiest. Honesty Reputable Goldendoodle breeders are open and upfront with their customers. They must answer any of your questions about their breeding program and the dogs they breed with honesty and competence. If they do their job well, they will have a good breeding reputation by following through on their promises and professionally handling issues. At Central Illinois Doodles, we are Goldendoodle breeders operating openly and transparently. Simply put, it means that your puppy comes from carefully chosen parent dogs whose lineages have been OFA DNA tested for genetic issues and common health concerns. As a result, all of our puppies come with written guarantees that they are free of health conditions and genetic disorders. Temperament is also a priority for us, and our goal is to ensure that the dogs we breed are the best match, not just for adorable puppies but well-tempered ones, too. Variety of Sizes and Colors Our Goldendoodles come in various sizes, from standard to miniature to toy, encapsulating the breed in a lovely tiny package! Every litter features a wide range of hues, from white to brown to tan and everything in between. The coat types of our Goldendoodle pups range from wavy to wavy, with loose curls to very curly. Whatever your preference, they are all extremely precious! Owners will be thrilled to see that our little puppies are already displaying indications of their intelligence as they learn and play in their new surroundings at just a few weeks old. While other breeds at the same age may be distant and unsure of their place in the family, our Goldendoodle pups bond quickly and develop devotion and loyalty at a young age. Goldendoodle breeders can ensure that their puppies inherit the best and healthiest qualities by carefully selecting parent dogs. So whether you are looking for a devoted friend, a service dog, or a therapy dog, Goldendoodle puppies are the best possible breed to consider! Check out our available puppies page to learn more about our current litters. We look forward to talking with you about our current or upcoming litters and helping you reserve your new puppy. Are Goldendoodles Hypoallergenic? If you are looking for reduced shedding in your dog, then the Goldendoodle may be the perfect fit for you. Most Goldendoodles inherit less shedding and hypoallergenic coats, but not all Goldendoodles inherit these traits. When the puppy is around three weeks old, Goldendoodle breeders can usually tell the type of coat they will have. This allows them to find the perfect family for each pup. Do Goldendoodle Puppies Need Training? Unfortunately, at the time being, we have no specialized training packages to offer you. But we would highly recommend finding an experienced dog trainer in your local area. We have a range of prices for our Goldendoodles, depending on the type of coat, color, size, and parents. Our Goldendoodles might not be as cheap as dogs from puppy mills or backyard Goldendoodle breeders. They reflect the effort and dedication we put into presenting you with a healthy and well-tempered perfect puppy. Please review our puppy price guide on our website for more information. Doodle Breeder Near Me. Welcome to Maple Valley! Looking for that perfect little furball to add to your family? Health tested parents See more details on our parents: click here 2. Birthed inside our home All the puppies are born inside our home and live in our house until weeks old. Our doggy parents are family pets and not kenneled We are committed to never becoming a large scale breeder. Our dogs are all personal pets. We founded Maple Valley in .Both of us Micah and Rose had prior experience with raising puppies. We have a private Facebook group, click here where families that have adopted puppies from us can connect and share updates as their puppies grow. We welcome questions, concerns and feedback for the entire life of your dog. If for some reason a puppy does not work out, we ask that you allow us to help in rehoming it. Meet Micah and Rose Raber. We have been providing our customers with loving healthy puppies for nearly 10 years! Every puppy is born inside our home. They receive lots of love and attention from the very beginning. We work hard to provide an outstanding adoption experience for you. As a busy family, we do ask that you have patience with us. We look forward to helping you find your next fluffy member of the family! He is a wonderful pup with so much energy and personality! He is such a goof ball, so smart, and healthy! Thank you guys so much! We are thrilled to have him as part of our family. Thank you so much for our adorable puppy! We love having a little golden doodle! She is smart, funny and adorable! She is great with our grandchildren. She loves camping and going for boat rides. She is the perfect puppy for us! Our vet commented that she could tell Charlotte came from a good breeder and we agree. Thank you! So very loving. The most playful dog, loves to cuddle and hug and kiss. Just everything about him is the sweetest! Southpaw is truly the love of my life. His fur does really well in this cold climate and barely sheds. I absolutely love my mini bernedoodle and have sent other people your way to get theirs. Thank you very much for creating such an amazing dog. She is a mini f1 with an apricot coloring. After about three weeks she was mostly potty trained with few accidents. She is very calm and loving and she gets attention wherever she goes. She loves playing with her other dog roommate and doggie friends! The process of reserving, communicating with, and picking up Paisley from the Rabers was so smooth and I recommend Maple Valley to all who ask!! And a Toy Goldendoodle was just what Luke needed. In the short 8 months that Luke got to spend with his beloved Jasper he brought him so many smiles and memories I will forever be thankful. Jasper helped Luke get through the hardest days of his life, he made him smile, laugh and the best cuddle partner there ever was. Sadly Luke was called home to heaven on July 21, .Luke was never alone with the help of Jasper, his parents Chad, Nikki and older brother Caleb. Jasper is of course still residing with Lukes parents and brother and I am still trying to figure out a way to dognapp him!! We visit them often and sweet Jasper is always the first to greet us at the door. The first photo is the day Luke was surprised with him. I just wanted to write a few lines and give you an update on our Stella Dalisha. She will be 17 weeks in two days and 20 lbs. We are just in love with her. She is exactly what our little family needed. She fit right in with her big brother and sister Titus and Margo. Her and Titus have become the best of friends and are inseparable. We all laugh at her silliness and her little facial expressions. She walks around on her hind legs begging to be picked up and carried. She loves to go for rides in the car and any squeaky toy she can find. She has one more round of puppy shots before I get her spayed. Everyone at the veterinary office thinks she is just a delight. Thank you for raising such wonderful bernedoodles. Thank you so much for our little Stella Mae. We love her so much! From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia A Goldendoodle is a mixed-breed dog, a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Poodle hybrids have become increasingly popular and it is likely that the combination of Golden Retriever and Poodle has been duplicated by breeders in various countries at different times. History The first Goldendoodles were likely due to accidental breeding between Golden Retrievers and Poodles. The Goldendoodle is usually bred to be a family companion dog. Some are bred and selected for careers in service to humans as Guide Dogs, Therapy Dogs and other types of assistance dogs. Many people select a Goldendoodle because they love Golden Retrievers, but would prefer a dog that sheds less hair. Some have lost their Golden Retriever or Poodle to cancer or inherited disease, and hope that the hybrid cross will give their new pet a better chance of reducing those risks. Others may desire a dog that may not affect their allergies, although not all Goldendoodles will exhibit the low shedding coat type of the Standard Poodle. Cross-breed dogs do not exhibit standard characteristics, and while Goldendoodles may shed less than a Golden Retriever, the degree of shedding will vary from dog to dog. Grooming requirements are as varied as coat types, with the least shedding coat types requiring more regular grooming than the coat types that shed. There have been no studies to date verifying that any canine is completely hypoallergenic. Goldendoodles often are good swimmers, a characteristic of both parent breeds. Like any other cross-breed, the Goldendoodle varies from individual to individual, displaying differences in size, coat type, and color. A Goldendoodle s size is generally somewhere between that of the Poodle and the Golden Retriever parents, and the range includes standard, medium and miniature. Some standard-sized Goldendoodles have weighed over pounds. Upon reaching adulthood, a standard Goldendoodle will often weigh 45 pounds or more; a medium Goldendoodle will weigh between pounds, and a miniature Goldendoodle will weigh approximately 15 to 30 pounds. Goldendoodles have different coat types: wool, fleece, hair or a combination. The wool coat is more like a traditional poodle coat. A fleece coat can be either curly, wavy or straight, with hair more similar to that of a golden retriever. As a general rule, the more curly the Goldendoodle s coat, the less shedding there will be as the dog has more features of the poodle coat. Common colors are white, cream, apricot, gold, and red. Less common colors are black and silver. Rarer colors include brown, parti, and phantom. Goldendoodles are classified as various types depending on the breed of the Goldendoodle s parents. Temperament Similar to the Golden Retriever and the Poodle. Intelligent, affable, trainable, very human oriented, yet friendly toward other dogs. Moderately high energy dogs, much like their parent breeds. The Goldendoodle is not a purebred; rather, it is a specific type of mixed-breed dog or crossbreed. Some breeders prefer to restrict breeding to first generation F1 dogs i. Other breeders maintain that a Backcross F1B Goldendoodle i. Still other breeders are attempting to take this one step further and develop the Goldendoodle as a breed via selective breeding. Location: P. As well as Goldendoodles, the breeder also produces Mini Bernedoodles and Sheepadoodles and has been operating as a licensed breeder for the past nine years. However, other delivery options are available for other locations within the US. Although there are some responsible, caring home-based Goldendoodle breeder operations, beware of backyard breeders and puppy mills. These operations generally use breeding dogs that are not health-screened, so you might be buying a puppy that has serious health defects. Always do plenty of research before you commit to buying a puppy, and use a breeder with a longstanding record of producing high-quality puppies. Why Are Goldendoodles So Expensive? So, Goldendoodles are undoubtedly pricey, but why? After all, as gorgeous as they are, Doodles are crossbreed, not pedigree purebred dogs. Supply And Demand The price of any item or commodity is governed by the basic economic principle of supply and demand. When something is popular, more and more people want to buy it. That can lead to a shortage in supply of the item, which in turn pushes the price up. That scenario is the same with Doodles. These dogs are now so popular that the demand for them outstrips the supply of puppies. So, the price of Goldendoodle puppies is inflated. Breeding And Genetics Professional Goldendoodle breeders and even your local family-run Goldendoodle breeder will strive to produce puppies that are healthy and well-bred. GANA members only use breeding dogs that undergo health certifications to rule out the risk of passing on hereditary health defects to their puppies. However, the degree of shedding depends on the type of Goldendoodle you buy and its coat type. Take, for example, F1 vs. F1B Goldendoodles. However, if the puppy grows a straight coat like a Golden retriever, he will shed more heavily. So, generally, multi-generation Goldendoodle puppies are more expensive than F1 animals. Coat Color Multigenerational Goldendoodle puppies with rare or unusual coat colors are usually more expensive than those in more common shades. You can find Goldendoodles in a variety of colors, including: Brown. We deliver anywhere in Wisconsin to your door or meet you at a bordering state. We also have delivery options outside of Wisconsin shipping nationwide with a puppy nanny service. Our crazy home includes several wonderful golden retrievers and Mini Goldendoodles, adorable and snuggly Bernese Mountain Dogs and Mini Bernedoodles, an awesome Mini Sheepadoodle, and three lively baby daddy miniature poodles. You can meet all of them on our Doodle Parents pages. Doodle Dog Hill is a great place to raise a family, especially by the lake, where the views are amazing, the water relaxing, and the sounds soothing. It is a Destination Doodle Retreat! We invite you to look around our website to meet our parents, see our available puppies, and read about what others say about the puppies they have adopted into their homes. The prices for our Mini Doodles are as follows, regardless of gender or color. They will be socialized and ready to integrate into your family. They travel home to you with health documents, health guarantees, first vaccinations and worming treatments, and a puppy starter package. All make wonderful additions to your family and a comfort or therapy pet. If you have any questions, we would love to hear from you! Find Us.

As I mentioned, dogs nibble your ears as a sign of affection and love. One thing is sure. Dogs have scent glands on their faces that release pheromones. When a dog nibbles your ear, they leave its scent on you as a way of claiming you as its own. This behavior is widespread among dogs that live in close quarters with other dogs, such as at a kennel or in a multi-dog household. The nibbling behavior can also be a sign of submission on the part of the dog. A dog that licks and nibbles your ear is telling you that it sees you as the alpha dog or leader of the pack. This behavior is most common in puppies and young dogs. As they grow older, dogs typically outgrow this behavior and lick your face instead as a sign of affection. However, some dogs will continue to nibble on your ear as a sign of affection even as they grow into older and fully grown dogs. Mouthing vs. Nibbling Many dog owners confuse mouthing and nibbling. These behaviors are both common in dogs, but there is a distinct difference. Unlike nibbling, mouthing is a grabbing action that dogs do with their mouth. However, mouthing does not involve the use of teeth. Puppies and young dogs often do mouthing to explore their environment. It is also an expected behavior in dogs that are teething. A Labrador puppy biting the finger of his owner. Mouthing is not generally considered a sign of affection the way nibbling is. Mouthing can often be a sign that the dog is feeling playful or wants to play, and it can also be a sign of excitement or frustration. Mouthing often starts as a fun and playful action when a dog is a puppy. However, as your dog gets older, this behavior can become dangerous. If your dog is mouthing you, it is essential to redirect the behavior positively. Allowing your dog to mouth can encourage your dog to bite in the future. Other Reasons for Nibbling Beyond showing affection, dogs can nibble on your ear for various reasons. Your Dog is Playing One of the most common reasons why dogs nibble is playing. If a puppy has ever nibbled on you, this is likely why. Puppies are full of energy and often use their mouths to play with their owners. As puppies grow into adult dogs, they typically outgrow this playful nibbling behavior. However, some dogs will continue to nibble during play, even as adults. Your Dog Likes the Taste This might seem odd, but dogs like the taste of our skin. Your dog might like the taste if you have sweated recently and there is salt on your skin e. Your dog may be nibbling because they like the taste of your ear. Some dogs bite their tails either out of boredom, or as a manifestation of stress or anxiety. Your Dog Is Stressed Believe it or not, dogs can get stressed just like humans. Your Dog Wants Something Another reason why dogs nibble is that they want your attention. Your Dog Smells Something Another reason why your dog nibbles your ear is that they smell something. Dogs have a great sense of smell. It is much stronger than our sense of smell. Your dog may be exploring the scent if you are wearing lotion, sunscreen, cologne, or perfume. Your Dog Loves You The best reason why a dog is nibbling on your ear is love! If your dog is nibbling gently and not using its teeth, it is likely a sign of affection. Now that you know why your dog nibbles, you might be wondering if you should allow this behavior. As we mentioned earlier, mouthing can often turn into biting. If you allow your dog to mouth you, your dog may think it is okay to do so with their teeth. Allowing this behavior can lead to a bite, which can cause serious injury. Nibbling is different than mouthing. Nibbling is typically done with the teeth but without applying pressure. It is not considered to be as dangerous as mouthing or biting. That said, you should not allow your dog to nibble on your ear. Nibbling can still turn into biting if you are not careful. If your dog is struggling to control their impulses, it might not realize that its nibbling is hurting you, and this can have severe consequences down the run. These consequences can be hazardous if you have small children. A French Bulldog with her owner. If your dog is nibbling your ear, positively redirect the behavior. For example, give your dog a chew toy or bone to bite on instead. If your dog is nibbling because they want something, such as food or to go outside, give them what they want. Giving the dog what it wants will help to stop the unwanted behavior. If your dog is nibbling because they are stressed, try to identify and address the source. This process may require some trial and error. If you are unsure why your dog is nibbling on your ear, it is best to consult a veterinarian or professional dog trainer. They will be able to help you identify the root cause of the problem and come up with a plan to address it. Another odd dog behavior is nibbling on noses. A nibble on the nose can be even stranger than a nibble on the ear! The reasons may be similar to why your dog is nibbling on your ear. It is a way for them to communicate with you, show affection, and let you know that you are part of their family. However, this behavior should be discouraged, like nibbling on the ear. In the long run, this behavior could result in the dog biting you. Labrador Retriever nibbles nose of his owner. It could be a sign of affection or a way to communicate. You do not want your dog to become a nuisance to other dogs or their owners. If you are concerned that this is the case, it is best to consult with a veterinarian or professional dog trainer. They will be able to help. The most common cause is that they like the taste of our skin. Dogs may also nibble on our ears because they are stressed, want something, or smell something. It is crucial not to allow your dog to nibble on your ear as it can lead to biting. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. This is sometimes because of teething but also because puppies explore the world with their mouths. Puppies may chew on anything nearby, such as your hands , and they will undoubtedly gnaw on any part of another dog they can reach, including the ears. Very excited puppies can get quite tenacious, and chewing may become active biting or nipping. However, it is very much a simple developmental phase for all puppies. This usually leads to much heartbroken wailing, but in most cases, no harm is done. As a pet parent, you can keep an eye on this but only intervene if your older dog becomes aggressive or intimidating. In this case, remove your puppy immediately and get help from a professional, as an aggressive adult can do permanent psychological damage to a puppy. Grooming and affection Dogs lick ears as a way of showing love and affection and as part of grooming each other. This is particularly common among females with strong maternal instincts but can happen with any very affectionate dog. Dog ears telegraph a lot about health, and you will often see dogs and cats sniff each other ears. This can advance to a dog chewing lightly on the ear lobe with its front teeth. You can tell play biting from real aggression by watching the body language. Playing dogs have relaxed bodies; they play bow, chase other, and have relaxed mouths with lolling tongues. When dogs play together, they either mimic chasing prey or fighting. In the case of play fighting, grabbing the neck area or the area is all part of the fun. My dog bit my other dog and drew blood! If your dog bit your other dog hard enough to draw blood, the situation has likely gone beyond play biting into full-blown aggression. Assess the wound for depth. Apply pressure to any deep bleeing punctures and take your injured dog to the vet to have the wound cleaned, stitched, and to get the appropriate pain medication and antibiotics. Why do dogs bite other dogs? Dogs typically bite other dogs for one of the following reasons: Poor socialization A genetic inclination toward dog aggression: aggression towards other dogs is common in breeds previously used for dog fighting or similar sports. Fearfulness: Dogs fearful or anxious about another dog may bite because they feel threatened. Possessiveness or Jealousy over a favorite person, food, or item. Pack dynamics: A power struggle among dogs in a multi-dog household. Redirected aggression: dogs who are frustrated by aggression at somebody passing but their house may redirect their aggression at the dog nearest them. Teach your dogs other ways to play. If your dogs enjoy chasing one another, playing, and wrestling, introduce a tug toy and encourage them to play tug instead. Satisfy their urge to chase by having regular sessions of fetch. Interrupt overstimulated and overexcited play. Never allow a good romp to become frenzied, and teach impulse control from a young age. If you see your dogs getting too excited during play, use a loud noise to interrupt them. A whistle or a shaking metal container full of rocks should help. Give them time to calm down by separating them and diverting them into a calmer activity, such as a bit of obedience. Supervise older and younger dogs together. If a young dog consistently annoys your older dog, consider placing the pup in daycare during the day, where they engage with more dogs their own age. Separate the dogs. In many situations, a professional behaviorist can fix the fighting if you catch it early enough. In some cases, dogs may have to be permanently separated. But never ignore any dog fighting, and hope it goes away. Unaddressed dog aggression usually escalates. Besides, acting violently toward your dog only teaches them to distrust you. It does not encourage good behavior or give them a reason to respect you. No pet parent achieves discipline through forceful outbursts. Instead, you achieve discipline through routine, consistent and clear rules, and plenty of structured activities that require your dog to pay attention. The notion that dogs have to be dominated is also misleading. Yes, dogs are pack animals, and they benefit from calm leadership. Without clear leadership, they often develop behavior problems related to anxiety or aggression. A pet parent who is a true leader to their dog always acts calmly, shows self-control, and leads by creating a foundation of trust with their dog. They do not do this with force but by establishing clear rules and reinforcing training from the day they get their dog. An older dog will often give a younger dog a more severe nip on the neck as a correction for bad behavior. However, dogs in a high state of aggression will bite the neck to either force the other dog to submit or kill their opponent. A playful bite is a normal part of rough-housing for young and old dogs. Dogs may also groom each other and take to nibbling on the ear flaps. In extreme cases, the ears may be a target in a fight. Tamsin De La Harpe Author Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs. Got Questions? Normal dog ear wax ranges from pale yellow to light brown. The consistency of the wax should be semi-soft. Otherwise, you risk the infection spreading to the middle or inner ear, which can pose serious health risks. It depends on the breed of your dog and lifestyle factors. Dogs who love the water, have floppy ears, or are simply prone to ear infections may need ear cleanings once a week. Other dogs will do just fine with once-a-month cleanings. First, what not to use. Never use ear cleaning products — homemade or store-bought — with alcohol, hydrogen peroxide or vinegar. This is like a double whammy to dogs: these ingredients can sting their delicate ear tissue especially if their ears are already sore and itchy and the bubbling sound can freak them out even more. So what should you use? One of the best go-to ear cleaners for veterinarians and dog groomers is Oxyfresh Pet Ear Cleaner. And pet parents love it because it cleans and gets rid of those stinky ear odors, fast! Instead, we use only safe, non-toxic, no-sting ingredients that help stop yeast and bacteria growth, the culprits behind dog ear infection and itchy, smelly dog ears. Do Labradoodles bite? February 20, Labradoodles are one of the most popular crossbreeds on the planet. The answer is yes and no. All dogs bite when they are puppies, and Doodles are no exception. However, adult Labradoodles should not bite unless provoked. If they do, there could be a deeper issue at play. Table of Contents Types of biting Before we take a deeper look at biting and the breed, we should consider the different types of biting in dogs and what they mean. The four main types are puppy biting, play biting, defensive biting, and attack biting. Puppy biting All puppies bite when they are teething. Teething is a natural process that all infant mammals go through, in which their milk teeth fall out and their adult teeth grow in. During this process, their gums can feel very sore, and biting and chewing on things is the only way to relieve the pain, which is why your adorable pup may seem more like a crocodile at first! Particularly high-energy puppies may also nip you when they are excited. Play biting Play biting is a natural part of play for many dogs. Dogs play-bite with their human family members and with other dogs, and as long as your dog is well socialized, it is nothing to be afraid of. The only time when play biting may be an issue is with children, so parents must be sure to teach their kids how to play with their pets and to monitor play with small children. Play biting naturally decreases once Labradoodles calm down at around years of age. However, with the right training this behavior can be resolved much sooner than that. Defensive biting Defensive biting is exactly what it sounds like — biting out of self-defense, or in defense of somebody else, whether it be a person, another dog, or even their home. A dog that is feeling defensive may lower their head or widen their gait, fix their gaze, pin back or point their ears, and hide or point their tail, as well as tremble, whine, bark, or snarl. This type of biting is usually quick and fairly minimal, and in most US states, owners are not liable for resulting injuries when a dog bites out of self-defense or provocation. For example, to small children cornering their family pets or to the vets giving them their shots. Attack biting Attack biting is when a dog bites somebody, or another dog, seemingly without provocation. This is, of course, the worst kind of biting. No dog should ever bite without provocation, but it does sometimes happen. Attack biting also occurs in some breeds more than others, most often in dogs with a genetic history of guard work and dogfighting. The bitey-ness will wind down gradually and you can train them to stop biting you and chewing your home to pieces in the meantime. Puppies usually learn how hard to bite each other when they play with their siblings in their first few weeks of life. You can teach your puppy not to bite others by yelping like a puppy whenever they bite you and ending your interaction immediately. This way, they learn that biting causes the fun and affection to stop. It may take them a while for them to understand, as puppy empathy can take several months to develop, but you should start doing it as early as possible. If you stay patient and remain consistent, they will learn! Additionally, you should reward them a lot for appropriate interactions. Use training treats to show your Labradoodle puppy that sitting politely pays off way more than nipping! As for chewing, you will never stop your dog from chewing as it is natural, normal, and good for them! There are even chew toys that are designed specifically for teething pups, with rubber teeth that massage and soothe their gums. Frozen carrots are also great treats for teething pups, as the cold will relieve their gums. Or, you could try filling a pup-sized Kong toy with something tasty and freezing it overnight for another yummy, soothing treat. Do adult Labradoodles bite? Labradoodles are known for being a friendly breed, this is part of what makes them such a popular choice for dog owners around the world. Can Labradoodles be dangerous? It is not recorded how many dog bites are caused by Labradoodles every year, or how many violent dog fights involve Doodles. However, this is a good thing. How to approach a nervous Doodle? If you come across a nervous Labradoodle, you should remain at a distance, stay calm, and try to make yourself appear smaller by crouching down to their level. Offer a treat or toy if you have one, and if they come to you and let you pet them, keep your hand where they can see it until they are comfortable with you. If they react aggressively at any point, just calmly back away. Can anxiety make Labradoodles bite? Extreme anxiety can cause Labradoodles to bite. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual , canine anxiety is most commonly caused by fears, separation, and old age. Fear-based anxiety is the type that is most likely to cause unprovoked biting, as it can cause dogs to become jumpy, making them snap out of panic, rather than aggression. Common fears amongst dogs include loud noises and cars, and they are usually born out of bad past experiences. An anxious dog may engage in repetitive behaviors such as pacing and lip licking. Triggers can be treated with positive association training and anti-anxiety aids like supplements, diffusers, and thunder vests. Some dogs also have an intense dislike of being groomed and bathed. If your Labradoodle is biting e. Can boredom make Labradoodles bite? Extreme boredom can make dogs bite. It can also make them engage in destructive behaviors such as ripping up furniture and going to the toilet indoors. If a dog is not receiving enough physical or mental stimulation, their pent-up energy and frustration can result in aggression, often towards other dogs, but sometimes towards people, too. Labradoodles have the social nature of the Labrador with the intelligence of the Poodle, so they need a lot of love, interaction, and mental stimulation. To prevent and tackle boredom, make sure your Doodle is getting two hours of exercise a day, preferably split into two walks, as well as lots of play and companionship. Vary their walk location to keep it interesting and switch it up with some running, games of fetch, and swimming from time to time if possible. Play some fun, challenging games like hide and seek at home, teach them new things to engage their brains, and invest in some stimulating toys like puzzles and treat dispensers. Can illness make Labradoodles bite? These illnesses can include sight or hearing loss, canine cognitive dysfunction, brain tumors, hypothyroidism, psychomotor epilepsy, hyperkinesis, and neoplasia. Painful injuries can also cause dogs to snap should somebody touch the area, but this is not done out of malice. Because Labradoodles are not AKC-registered , there are no guidelines for health testing in this breed. Sadly, some breeders do not make sure that the parents are free of hereditary diseases. Some puppies are born predisposed to develop illnesses later on — some of which can make them aggressive, too. If your dog bites unnecessarily and it is completely out of character, especially if they are older or you notice any other physical or behavioral changes, you should take them to see their vet for an examination right away. What if my Labradoodle bites someone? If your Doodle bites someone that is posing a threat to you, your dog, or somebody else, you should get away from them immediately and inform the police if necessary. In most US states, owners are not liable for resulting injuries when a dog bites out of self-defense or provocation. If the bite was unprovoked, you should separate the person from your dog and make sure that they get the medical help they need. As for your dog, you should inform your vet of what has happened. Legal repercussions and enforced euthanasia for biting are possible in extreme situations. Our website cannot provide legal advice on bite cases. What if my Labradoodle bites another dog? If your Doodle gets into a fight with another dog, you should separate the two dogs immediately. If your dog hurts the other dog significantly, you should offer to pay for their veterinary treatment, unless their dog was very clearly the aggressor and your dog was defending themselves. Owners of dogs that get attacked by other dogs are legally within their rights to report you to the police if they feel that your dog is dangerous. Legal repercussions and enforced euthanasia are rare, but if your dog is a danger to other dogs, you should take precautions to prevent them from attacking another dog in the future, such as training, keeping them on the leash, and muzzle wearing. The bottom line Although any dog can bite if provoked, Labradoodles, in general, are not aggressive or dangerous dogs. In fact, they are known to be a perfect family dog that is great with children and other pets. However, you should still make sure that you fully train and socialize your dog to ensure good behavior. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.

As you can see in the photos below, both the red Goldendoodles in our pack Chloe and Ruby had red puppy coats. Also, you can see in the photos that the coat color lightened over time. For our Goldendoodles, the coat color change was very gradual and happened into adulthood. From my research and years of connecting with other Doodle moms, this seems typical of many red Goldendoodles. Coat colors may fade or lighten even through adulthood. Left: Chloe, a red F1B Goldendoodle as a puppy. Right: Chloe as a full-grown adult. I like comparing a Goldendoodle to opening a box of Cracker Jacks. Left: Ruby, a red F1 Goldendoodle as a puppy. Right: Ruby as a full-grown adult. Color changes are gradual. When Chloe was a puppy, I noticed that around five months of age, some white hairs started popping up in her red coat. Over time, her coat lightened from a radiant red to a color I describe as cinnamon red. Some call this graying. I like to call it cinnamon and sugar. Ruby, an F1 Goldendoodle puppy. Red Goldendoodles are so much more than their teddy bear good looks. No matter the coat color, type wavy, curly, or fleece or size mini Goldendoodle or pound lap sitter , Goldendoodle dogs are so much more than their teddy bear good looks. Because they tend to be smart, social, and easily trained, many Goldendoodles become working dogs including therapy dogs or service dogs. Or, take a peek into a day in the life of Harley and Jaxson, two Goldendoodle therapy dogs who comfort patients at a hospital. Many Goldendoodles love exercising, energy burns, adventures, and brain games. Red Goldendoodles, like most Goldendoodles are smart. They require daily exercise and plenty of brain games or mental stimulation. Introducing canine enrichment —giving your dog the opportunity to sniff, chew, play, explore, etc. Typically, Goldendoodles are active dogs and love to play. A Goldendoodle can spark joy in your life. Bringing a Goldendoodle into your home is exciting as well as filled with new responsibilities. The most important things you can do? Give your new family member lots of tender loving care, socialization, time with the family, age-appropriate exercise, positive training, ongoing veterinary care, and your time and attention. Autumn leaves. Red delicious apples. So many amazing things are red…including our dear Goldendoodle dogs. These comical crimson Doodles tend to be quick to learn, eager to fit in with the entire family, and ready to adapt to life with you. Finally, there is one Goldendoodle universal that many parents know. Do you have a red Goldendoodle? Please comment below. It has been updated to include more information about red Goldendoodles. Like our previous litters, these puppies should prove to have beauty, intelligence, a gentle nature, and if you are so inclined to develop it, hunting drive! Our dam, AKC registered dark Golden Retriever, Roxie, is 70 lbs of playful, fun-loving, kid snuggling, sweetness with a beautiful wavy auburn colored coat. Not to mention that she can find a single pheasant feather in a 5-acre field! Our dam, AKC registered Golden Retriever, Aspen, is 60 lbs, a gorgeous deep mahogany red and has stunning conformation as well as a sweet, playful temperament. She will begin her breeding career in the fall of .We are so excited to meet her first litter of pups! Our sire, AKC registered red Standard Poodle, Fisher, is 65 lbs and a smart, sweet, affectionate boy with a soft curly red coat and a gentle disposition. Fisher began his breeding career in the spring of and we are so pleased with his sweet, smart, beautiful pups! We continuously strive for the perfect combination of temperament, intelligence, conformation, aesthetics, and utility to ensure that our F1 red Goldendoodle puppies make great family pets and hunting companions! Our puppies come vaccinated, dewormed, microchipped, and their health is guaranteed. They will be handled frequently by adults and children to ensure optimal socialization and exposed to other dogs and cats to maximize their chances for success in their new family environments. Each pup will also be introduced to game birds and assessed for hunting potential in the interest of helping our hunting families choose the best prospects. John and Christina Norton. In every F1b litter there will be puppies that have loose-wavy coats, super curly coats, and everything in between. These puppies are very desirable for families who have allergies. All of the happy, friendly, playful personality without all the shedding! The normal height for a standard F1B Goldendoodle is about " from the shoulder to the paw. Weight range tends to be pounds. Happy and playful with a beautiful shaggy to wavy coat. The normal height for a standard F1 Goldendoodle is about ". Colors will range from Cream to Apricot to red, some with white markings. Moyen goldendoodles will range from lbs. Colors will range from Cream to Apricot to red. Mini goldendoodles will range from 20 to 30 lbs, depending on the mom. Let us know is you are interested in Mini. Colors will range from Cream to Apricot. Mini goldendoodles will range from lbs. To secure a puppy, an application fee will need to be made here. This non-refundable Application fee will secure your puppy. The balance plus a processing fee will be due at 6 weeks old. Please remember that we do not have control of when our females get pregnant, these are estimated times and may change a little! All lists are filled in order of Application dates. Inquire This Is Our Story When we purchased our standard poodle back in , she absolutely captured our hearts with her love and affection. Ruby grew to be a great listener and an absolute joy to be around. She so generously spread her love around our home that when the opportunity presented itself to potentially see Ruby become a Mama and watch her offspring come into the world to bless others, we jumped at the call. Being a genetically tested, healthy, and life loving poodle, we knew that Ruby would make a great mother. Moreover, Ruby has proven to be an excellent Emotional Support Animal, having been designer bred for an affectionate, yet supportive and intelligent temperament. Through thoughtful in home breeding with round the clock attention, we hope to share her special temperament with the world through each designer bred and carefully raised puppy. Care That You Can Trust We are an in-home boutique breeder that pours genuine love and affection into our Mama and each puppy she bears. Mom and Puppy wellbeing are our top priority. Get Ready for the Next Litter! Our Ruby will begin trying for puppies next Spring! We are so excited to announce that sweet Ruby's newest litter will arrived sometime next spring. We had litters of 10 and 12 puppies! We are so happy that we can provide a loving, safe environment for both Ruby and her puppies, and are excited to see more adorable cuties come into this world to bless many adoption family. Sign up for the waitlist today! Sign up for our news letter for more information. Reserve Now Previous Litter Puppies! Meet Rubies Previous Litter. She loves to play with her toys and littermates! She is the darkest red of this litter and is absolutely adorable.

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