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Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. German Shepherd puppies , like all puppies, go through a teething phase, and their biting behavior can continue until they are around 4 to 6 months old when their adult teeth have fully grown in. But how do you get German Shepherd puppies to stop biting, and when should you seek out more help? We dive into everything that you need to know here. German Shepherds are herding dogs, and as such, they love to go after anything that moves. This could be cats, kids, hands, fingers, or just about anything else. The more they get away with it, the more acceptable the behavior seems in the future. Addressing the problem early and consistently is vital. Just like babies need something to chew on when their new teeth are coming in, your German Shepherd needs something too! First, it stops when they get their adult teeth. Second, if you try to redirect them to something that they can chew on, most German Shepherd puppies are receptive. At this time, they should have all their adult teeth, which means no more teething to worry about. But at least you know the root of the problem and can start implementing the necessary strategies to address it. Instead, get them a few chew toys, bones, and other acceptable things to chew on as they teethe. You can also throw a few of these toys in the fridge or freezer to cool them down, and this will offer even more relief for your pup when they need it! While there are plenty of techniques to try, we recommend redirection and positive reinforcement. The method is simple. If and when they start chewing on the toy or other appropriate object, give them praise. German Shepherds love to please their owners, so this is typically an effective way to train your puppy. Therefore, you should have levels of concern. If they are still chewing and nipping at the 9-month mark, you should seek obedience training or talk to a vet to see what you can do. So, get on it early and often, and stick with it! Because with just a little work and dedication you can get your German Shepherd puppy to stop biting in no time. Check Price on Amazon 4. Use Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement means giving something pleasant to your German Shepherd when they perform what you want them to do so that they learn to associate the correct behavior with the reward. The more this is repeated, they will remember and do it more often. The reward is a reinforcing motivation. In the above example of redirecting your GSDs biting to a chew toy, once he accepts the toy and starts to chew or play with it, you then offer lots of enthusiastic verbal praise and reward with a treat. Again, timing is important, and this must be done instantly so that your German Shepherd will recognize or associate his behavior with the correct action. You can give other rewards, but these may be more suited to older pups, adolescent dogs, or adults. Alternatives could be giving them a special toy, playing their favorite game, such as fetch, or taking them on their favorite walk. Always use lots of verbal praise in parallel to the reward you choose. You will, no doubt, soon get to learn where your dog prefers to be pet. Go here for more guidance on where to pet your German Shepherd. This is also useful when your German Shepherd starts to put his mouth around your possessions or furniture, ready to have a good gnaw! Using a time-out can effectively discipline a German Shepherd for biting and other undesirable behaviors. A great way to do this is to grab their collar, push their bum down, and make them sit. The idea is that your German Shepherd will quickly learn to associate that the fun stops when his nipping starts! As always, timing is critical, so your pup learns what he has done wrong at the precise moment. For very young puppies, you should only put them in time-out for a few seconds, between 7 and 10, and no longer than 30 seconds. At the end of the time-out, redirect your pup back to play and use lots of verbal praise or offer a training treat for good onward behavior. You must time the click at the exact moment your pet is doing what you want to reinforce. If you quickly reward your dog with a positive experience such as a treat, he will soon learn to associate the noise of the click with great things. The idea is that you condition your German Shepherd so that when he hears the sound of the clicker, he knows he has done something to please you. In the case of puppy biting, we are simply rewarding the puppy for choosing not to bite. You can achieve this by using the distraction technique described above. When the puppy makes the right choice and starts to bite on his chew toy, he hears the click and gets his treat. Look out for other symptoms such as drooling more than usual, bad breath, loss of appetite, or sneezing. If you are consistent and patient with your methods, you will achieve great results. Be firm but fair, which also helps to strengthen the loving bond between you and your dog. It leads to fear, avoidance, hurt feelings, guilt, stress, anxiety, and lack of trust. Owners should use positive reinforcement methods as much as possible. In another year-long study by the University of Pennsylvania, researchers found that using confrontational or aversive methods to teach aggressive dogs did not work. The dogs continued to be aggressive until the training methods were changed. The same study found that punishing techniques and dominance-based training, such as hitting or kicking, growling, or yelling at your dog, can cause aggression, as stated by Meghan E. An even more recent study in companion dogs suggests that using even mild punishments like yelling and leash-jerking can stress dogs out more than dogs taught using reward-based training. This stress causes negative consequences and poorer welfare. Alpha rolling is a controversial and outdated technique that physically puts your dog on his back or side in a submissive position to show that you are dominant or the Alpha. This old-fashioned technique is a form of positive punishment and was often used to house-train pups. Many people will have used this method decades ago without success, but at the time, they believed it was the right thing to do. For a positive punishment to work, the problem is that it has to be administered during or immediately after the act within 2 -3 seconds ; otherwise, the dog will not make the connection. Sometimes puppies naturally get over-excited and overtired. When this happens, instead of using the crate as a punishment, lure him into the crate with a treat offering lots of praise and letting him go down for a nap. If you feel sorry for your German Shepherd after disciplining him, you must never reward him out of guilt. Again, this only confuses your dog. Remember to be firm but fair. While a muzzle can prevent your dog from biting, it is not a solution to the underlying behavior issue. Muzzling your German Shepherd without addressing the root cause of their biting can lead to further behavioral problems and may even make the situation worse. Is it ever too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting? It is never too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting, but it may take more time and effort to modify their behavior if the biting has become a habit. Start with identifying the root cause and then take the guidance of an expert to set boundaries and train better to eradicate unwanted behavior. Final Thoughts Puppy biting is natural in all dogs. However, you now know the importance of disciplining your German Shepherd as soon as he starts to exhibit biting, nipping, and chewing behavior and how to do it. This is especially important with the German Shepherd breed as they quickly grow into big strong dogs. That could end in disaster for all concerned. No matter what you are teaching your German Shepherd, try to train him when young; 8 weeks old is a great time to start. Make sure you properly socialize him and give him lots of exercise and training will be much easier. Related Posts You May Like:. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share! Since puppies lack the dexterity that you and I have, they use their mouths to explore the world around them. By understanding the behavior of biting itself, you can begin to see just how normal biting is in German Shepherd puppies. Just because biting is a normal behavior in a puppy does not mean we should tolerate it or promote it. Since biting is a form of communication for German Shepherd puppies, there are many things our puppies could be trying to say! So why do Shepherd pups bite? Puppies often communicate with their siblings through biting and pawing, especially when they are trying to incite a play session. Your pup may gnaw on your hand as if it were a chew toy, especially when you are a moving target. Puppies play and bite their siblings from the moment they are old enough to do so. This is why the behavior is so common, and why our Shepherd pupswill need to learn how to transition to playing with appropriate chewing options. Not only are our hands and feet tempting enough, but even more so when a puppy has a high prey drive. A prey drive is an ingrained need to chase after moving objects, whether it is appropriate or not. A swinging hand as we walk by can be extremely tempting for a growing pup, causing them to jump up and nip. If it seems like your Shepherd puppy is always biting you when you are in motion, it may be due to their high prey drive! They Are Curious As we mentioned above, German Shepherd puppies use their mouth to explore the world around them. Biting can help them examine and understand an object, and our hands and feet can fall into that category as well! If you catch your puppy gnawing on everything around your home, it may be their curiosity getting the best of them! A dog quickly learns what behavior gets a reaction, causing them to do it over and over again. Even if their bites result in a negative reaction from you, it still counts as attention. They Are Teething Similar to teething babies, a German Shepherd puppy experiences teething pain as well. If your Shepherd pup seems to find relief when chewing on objects, they may be biting you due to teething discomfort. They Are Herding You If your German Shepherd puppy is constantly biting at your ankles, they may be displaying some herding behaviors. German Shepherds are ingrained with a need to work, especially in dogs with a working bloodline. If your German Shepherd is always nipping at your feet, running to your side when you are moving, or showing signs of anxiety or frustration when you are moving around your home; it may be herding behavior. So how can you stop this normal puppy behavior? Redirect The Behavior One of the most effective ways to stop your German Shepherd puppy from biting is by redirecting the behavior. An effective distraction is a wonderful way to end the behavior without punishment, and show them how much fun the alternative to biting can be. The next time your Shepherd pup is displaying undesirable nipping, try to pull out their favorite toy. Since this will need to be a toy that your dog enjoys, be sure to offer them the option that they find most exciting. This can be a Kong toy , rope, bone, or any other chewing option that your dog loves. By doing this each time your Shepherd puppy begins to bite you, they will begin to understand that they would much rather play with an acceptable chew option. Having a variety of chew toys can alleviate their need to bite our hands and feet, and offer them the relief they seek in this uncomfortable transition. There are so many toys created for teething puppies, that it should be easy to fill your home with plenty of appropriate options. One of our favorite chew toys is the Kong Teething Binkie. Any attention can validate the behavior, causing them to make it a habit. This shows them that the behavior is unacceptable, and does not involve any harmful negative reinforcement. Our attention is important to a puppy, and they do not want to be ignored. By showing them that biting will only result in us pulling away, they will learn to ditch the undesirable behavior. Interrupt The Behavior Sometimes a Shepherd puppy needs a sharp and sudden sound to pull them out of a bad habit. By giving a quick interrupter cue ouch, yip, eek , you can pull your puppy away from the action and gain their attention. Because of this, it is so important to offer plenty of mental and physical activities throughout your home. For example, if your puppy nips at strangers each time they walk in the door, it may be best to limit their time around the guest and send them to a separate play area. Once they begin to understand that biting is unacceptable, you can refrain from using their separate play area as often. Similar to what we discussed above about being proactive, a separate play area can help them calm down and collect themselves. Once your German Shepherd puppy begins to mature and understand that biting is unacceptable, they should require less time away. Just as there are effective methods in canine training, there are counterproductive actions as well. Do Not Hit Or Yell Since biting is a normal behavior that puppies must learn to grow out of, it is not productive to hit or yell at your puppy when they bite. Doing this can show them from a young age that interaction with you results in something negative, and can hinder your training process. By using other distractions and training methods when they bite, you can turn every bite into a learning experience for your pup! This can seem like a fun game to your pup, and can actually encourage the behavior. Try your best to go limp when they bite you, and pull your attention away from the pup. By doing this, you show them that this behavior does not offer them any extra fun. Extra attention can validate their undesirable behavior, making it challenging to break. Try your best to refrain from reacting to a bite outside of your interrupter cue, and pull your attention away from your furry friend afterward. Biting is a normal behavior in puppies of all kinds. Puppies begin to bite their siblings from the moment they can move, and will continue this behavior until they learn otherwise. A biting German Shepherd puppy is to be expected, and should not result in any discouragement on your part. As long as you are following the tips we mentioned above, your puppy should shy away from this behavior in no time! Biting in puppies is not usually a sign of aggression. Mild biting is usually a form of play, and should be easily corrected. However, there are some rare cases where biting in German Shepherd puppies is a sign of something more. If your pup is displaying any snarling, growling, ears pinned back, stiff posture, or any other signs of canine aggression, your pup may be biting in reaction to fear or pain. If you are unable to make any progress within a month of implementing the tips we discussed above, it may be time to contact a dog trainer. A trainer can not only help your pup refrain from biting, but offer other obedience training as well. Final Thoughts As you can see, biting is a normal behavior for our beloved German Shepherd puppies. Be sure to review the tips we discussed above on proper canine training, and you can banish puppy biting for good! Hopefully, we will have the answers to all of your questions in this guide. But, all that cuteness quickly disappears when the biting phase starts. Puppy biting is normal in all breeds, including the German Shepherd. And, luckily, we have some great tips and tricks to minimize the painful biting period. In fact, it could have a number of causes. Here are a few of the most common reasons, in a little more detail. Teething One reason why puppies of all breeds may bite is teething. This stage often starts at around 3 or 4 months of age — only a few weeks after your puppy will arrive at their new home. Luckily, it only takes a few months for your puppy to have their full set of adult teeth. So, biting from teething is not permanent. If your puppy is biting or chewing because of teething, you may notice other symptoms like drooling, irritability, and going off their food. Boredom or Getting Attention Bored puppies may learn that biting gets some fun responses from you! Just like barking can. If your puppy has learnt that they can get some attention from you when they bite, they may do it to alleviate boredom. This can explain why puppies concentrate most of their biting on one family member — the person who gives the most fun response. Natural Play Biting is a natural part of puppy play — as much as some owners might not want to hear it! German Shepherd puppies, just like any other breed, will bite whilst they are playing with you or with other dogs. If this behavior continues into adulthood, the biting can be more problematic. Responding to Rough Play Some people like to play with German Shepherd puppies in quite a rough manner. This can include pushing them, or rolling them over. Behaviors like this can make puppies very excitable, and encourage biting during play. Encourage calm play between your family members or friends and your puppy. Herding Instincts The German Shepherd breed has a history as a herding dog. The creator of the breed, Captain Max von Stephanitz, bred the German Shepherd in an attempt to create the ultimate all-round herding breed. This was all the way back in the late s. Although the history of the breed has changed over time, from herding to working dog, their origins remain the same. Many herding dogs are prone to natural chase instincts. They may chase small children or other animals — particularly those that are making lots of noise. And, these herding behaviors can include nipping at heels. Once again, your behavior can minimize biting from this cause. Exploration Another common explanation for young German Shepherd biting is their natural curiosity. And, they may do this partly with their mouths. What you really want to know is, when will it stop? However, you can minimize the period by making a few easy changes to your behavior when biting occurs. The best ways to stop puppy biting and minimize the biting period are training and prevention. This means training your puppy to be gentle with you and other people, and taking away opportunities for your excited puppy to bite humans. You may need to go as far as to completely separate your GSD puppy from small children and people who insist on rough play with puppies. We know that this can only encourage biting. Remove Yourself Calmly If your puppy starts to bite you, during play or any other time, the best solution is to calmly and quietly remove yourself. You can use tools like baby gates to keep your German Shepherd in a puppy-safe room. In fact — your puppy will learn that biting during play or cuddles only results in you leaving, and them ending up on their own! Not only will this help to show your puppy that biting is not an acceptable part of playtime, but it can also help your own sanity to remove yourself from those sharp teeth occasionally. Think About Clothing You should also think about the type of clothing you wear around your puppy. Loose, hanging clothing can be appealing to your puppy, and provide something easy to grip on with their sharp teeth. Wear tight fitting clothing to minimize the number of things your puppy can bite at. Use Distractions If you, or young children in your household, are keen to pet your puppy without being bitten, you should make the most of distractions like treats or toys. You can hold a chew for your puppy to keep their attention and mouth distracted whilst someone pets them! Often, puppy owners only think about biting whilst their puppy is actively gnawing on them. One method is to reward them with treats when you are petting them and they are not biting you. Another is to reward them for calm behavior around the house. This way they learn that acting calmly and letting you touch them without biting will earn them good things! One popular method to stop puppy biting is to squeal, squeak, growl, or make another loud noise. Some people claim that this method replicates natural puppy play and tells your GSD when they are being too rough. For some owners, this may work. If this is the case, making a noise when your puppy bites will act as a reward, and encourage your German Shepherd puppy to bite you even more. This is one reason why puppies biting children is so common. Many children will make lots of noise, especially if a puppy bites them, which can lead to further nipping. This is similar to the method above, if used alone. This is why training has to be done in small stages — first you must teach the puppy what action you want, and then you can give the action a name, or command. Punishment Methods The best methods to stop your puppy from biting involve positive rewards for the behaviors you want. Studies on dog training and behavior have shown that punishment based methods are often associated with an increase of problematic behaviors. Punishing your puppy for biting can lead to distrust and fear from your puppy. The causes of puppy biting that we looked at earlier in this guide apply to all GSD puppies. In fact, they apply to all puppies of any breed. Biting and chewing is a normal puppy behavior, and a normal part of play. As long as you react to this behavior in the right way, it is a period that will pass. The biggest fear for most German Shepherd puppy owners is that their puppy is aggressive when it bites. German Shepherd puppy biting can be accompanied by ferocious growls or snarls. It can even draw blood. So are behaviors like snarling and growling. And, if your puppy is biting hard enough to injure you, they may not have learnt proper bite inhibition yet. This is the process where your puppy learns to be gentle with his teeth on your skin. The positive reward methods we discussed earlier in this guide are the best way to teach your puppy bite inhibition. Remove yourself calmly and quietly whenever your puppy bites. And make sure to reward any calm behavior — including when your puppy lets you pet it without biting. Speak to a Behaviorist If you think your puppy is exhibiting aggressive behaviors, such as guarding their resources, you may want to speak to a behaviorist. They will be able to look at your puppy as an individual case, and analyse their behavior properly. Do Adult German Shepherds Bite? The German Shepherd breed is known for being aggressive in some circumstances — they make popular guard dogs, and are number one candidates for working dog roles in the police and military.

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Standard Bernedoodles need regular grooming because of their curly and thick coats. Shedding is very minimal after their first haircut and grooming. This breed is known to be a hypoallergenic choice. Here at Blue Diamond Family Kennels, we specialize in breeding Standard Bernedoodles along with a few other great breeds. We have teamed up with a few other reputable Bernedoodle breeders that breed and raise Bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. On our Standard Bernedoodle puppies page you will see all of our available puppies for sale. Best Bernedoodle Breeder in Pennsylvania welcome to Integrity Bernedoodles You want a new puppy, but not just any puppy. And since this is a big and exciting step in your life, you don't want to settle for anything less than the best. Here at Integrity Bernedoodles, our goal is to bring to you the best of Bernedoodles! We strive to be open and honest and provide happy, healthy puppies that are well socialized. So don't hesitate to reach out to us; we would love to meet you and help you choose your new best friend! Our health guarantees and socialization are promises you can count on us to uphold. As a small, family-owned business, we operate solely out of our passion for the Bernedoodle breed and making families happy by introducing them to their new best friends. We work hard to take care of and socialize each and every one of our puppies from the day they are born - one of the most significant benefits of being a small-scale operation. This socialization and intentional care mean your puppy will be happy and fully ready to go home with you and your family when the time comes. If you are looking for a trustworthy and caring PA Bernedoodle Breeder, you have come to the right place! Contact Us Why We Chose to Become Bernedoodle Breeders After our first encounter with a Bernedoodle puppy , we almost instantly had a dream of creating the perfect family dog. We absolutely loved the affectionate, playful, and loyal disposition of a Bernedoodle, and couldn't get enough of the beautiful tri-color coat. A tri-color Bernedoodle puppy is one that has black, white, and brown coloring in the coat - similar to a standard Bernese Mountain Dog. Our goal as Bernedoodle breeders is to provide families with simultaneously beautiful and loving dogs, and we are sure you will love this breed as much as we do. More About the Bernedoodle Bernedoodle Puppies Our Bernedoodle puppies adore children and make for a fun, furry family member. All of our puppies are health tested and guaranteed, but more importantly, they are raised by the caring hands of our entire family from the day they are born. We have lots of beautiful Bernedoodle puppies for sale ready to be taken home, and look forward to introducing you to your new family member! We are 40 miles east of Harrisburg, 1 hour west of Allentown, and less than 2 hours northwest of Philadelphia. Although we are located in Pennsylvania and mainly serve local PA customers, we welcome all dog lovers from around the country and will assist with delivering puppies nationwide. You may be located on the other side of the country, but we can assure you that a puppy from a trustworthy Bernedoodle breeder is well worth any travel inconveniences! Integrity Bernedoodles. Life Span Did You Know? These large, fluffy dogs are known for their non-shedding coats and lovable personalities. Bernedoodles tend to be a great addition to any family! Although the Bernedoodle is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other dog registries. As long as they are properly socialized, they tend to be open and friendly dogs that get along well with just about anyone. These dogs tend to do well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although they can be initially wary and watchful at first, they even tend to warm up quickly to strangers once introduced. Bernedoodles are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. Despite their size and energy, they can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise and attention. These dogs tend to handle the cold better than the heat; you may even have some trouble getting them to come back inside after some playtime in the snow. Because Bernedoodles bond so closely with their families and enjoy nothing more than being around them, they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. They can also be prone to skin issues like sensitive skin, allergies, and hot spots. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large dog breed, the Standard Bernedoodle is also at risk for bloat like both parent breeds. The Bernedoodle is a highly intelligent and easily trained dog breed. Some facts about Bernedoodles are that they are a good fit for owners of any experience level and tend to pick up commands easily. Although they tend to grow out of this initial stubbornness with age, puppy training classes will certainly help with training and socialization early on. Bernedoodles tend to have a longer coat that ranges from curly to wavy. Although they tend to be non-shedding, they still need a lot of maintenance to keep their coat looking great. Daily brushing to remove tangles and prevent mats along with grooming every weeks are recommended. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Brushing daily along and cleanings at the vet as needed are an ideal start to a good dental care routine for your Bernedoodle. Standard Bernedoodles can range from moderate to high energy. They tend to sit in a more moderate activity range and have bursts of higher energy when they play. These dogs are known to play hard and energetically until they are tired, but are not usually considered high-energy dogs. Daily walks plus playtime and some time to run should be enough for a Bernedoodle. But, these dogs will likely be up for more activity if you are. They will love the opportunity to spend more time being active with you. A fully-grown Standard Bernedoodle usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. Standard Bernedoodles generally live for years on average. A Bernedoodle is also sometimes called a Bernese Mountain Poo. Featured Bernedoodle Article.

Pugs require attention, but should also have a space of their own in which they feel comfortable when you are not home or are otherwise occupied. Provide your pug with an area of its own including a bed and blankets, some toys, and easy access to food and fresh water. This way, even if you cannot pay attention to your pug for a moment, they do not feel alone. Remember that pugs are sensitive to very hot temperatures and rapid temperature changes. Avoid setting up their space in areas with continued direct sunlight or near heating and cooling vents. Pugs are prone to nervousness and anxiety. You can help them calm down by being consistent in your daily routine. This means scheduling feeding times, walks, play times, and quiet times as close to the same time every day as possible. Because of this, it is important to schedule a vet check as soon as you bring your new pug home. It is important for your pug to be seen by a veterinarian regularly so that it can get preventative veterinary care. A bi-annual check up will ensure that your dog stays up to date on immunizations, preventative medications, and that any emerging health problems can be dealt with quickly. Younger pugs may need to see the vet more often until they are spayed or neutered and have completed their first course of shots. Your vet will help you work out a preventative care schedule for things like annual shots, heartworm treatments, parasite elimination, vaccinations, microchipping, and teeth cleanings, all of which are important parts of keeping your pug healthy. This is especially important if you have children in the house. Teach your children how to recognize when your dog is anxious or fearful, so that they know when to back off. Some Final Words Generally, they are an easy dog breed to take care of. But Pugs need special attention in areas that other dog breeds do not have to worry about. Part of that care is to make sure they eat a proper diet. What makes this special is that Pugs have big appetites and can easily get overweight. You have to watch their food intake to make sure they do not get too fat. Then while they do not need a lot of exercise, they still need exercise. You will have to make some room in your schedule to make sure your Pug is exercised every day. Also, you have to watch out for eye and ear issues as well as their breathing problem. Special attention is needed to make sure your Pug gets the right kind of care. That care will help them live long and happy lives making sure they are with your family for many years. However, that alone time should not be for hours on end. Pugs like socialization and they love being with their families, so they do not like it when they are the forgotten member of the family. They are bred to be companions to humans and that is what the Pug lives for. But, schedules and daily lives are what they are. This means that you will have to start training your Pug when they are puppies. This training will help them adjust to being alone and make it easier for those times you are gone for a few hours. The amount of hours your Pug can be alone depends on a few factors. Those factors include: Age of your Pug Temperament Anxiety levels The general rule of thumb is to make sure your Pug is not alone for more than 4 hours at a time. But this is a subjective estimate and some Pugs can be alone for 6 to 10 hours if properly trained. If your Pug is a puppy, then try to make sure that you keep their alone time shorter than one hour. That will be the upper limit for your puppy to be alone. Need to know How to Train a Pug? Click here to find out how. There are specific things you can do and are needed if your Pug is going to be healthy and live a long time. Here are some tips to guide you: Make sure they get proper ear, eye, and skin care. You will need to clean their wrinkles, as well as their ears and eyes. Make sure they have healthy food and lots of fresh water in their bowls. Use a harness, not a collar. This is due to their brachycephalic category. Any dog accessory you use on your Pug should not hinder their breathing. Use a slow feeder- Pugs do tend to bloat when they eat and drink too fast. Measure their food out so they do not harm themselves when they eat or drink. Make sure to clean out their food and water bowls regularly. Their saliva and food particles that drip into either one can keep them from eating or drinking. Then your Pug gets dehydrated, etc. You also have to watch out for mold and bacteria in the food bowls. Pugs are vulnerable to the changing seasons. Their care will depend on how hot or cold it is outside. Some Final Words Taking care of a Pug is a little more involved than with other dog breeds. But these dogs are worth every minute of the special care they get. Take some time to learn more about how to care for your Pug so that he or she will be happy living with you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Overview When you have a dog from the age of a young pup, this gives you a wonderful opportunity. It offers you a chance to bond with your dog from the very beginning. This also gives you an advantage because you will be able to train and teach your pup what they need to know before they learn any bad behavior from elsewhere. This section will discuss how to care for a Pug puppy, starting at 8 weeks old and up until he or she is an adult, at the age of 1 year. Transition to a New Home Things will run much smoother if you plan ahead and have most, if not all, of your puppy care items already in your home. Here are the most important items to have: A crate — One with an adjustable size is best to fit the needs of a growing Pug puppy. Crating is a good night time method to use until a pup is housebroken. Gates or a playpen — Choosing an area to gate off or using a canine playpen are good options for when you must leave your Pug puppy home alone or for when you cannot be right at his side. This keeps the pup in a controlled space which helps in regard to bathroom needs and keeping a puppy in one area when he or she has strong chewing urges. Puppy food — This should be obtained before the puppy is brought home. Owners will not always agree with the food that a puppy has been being fed, however any change should be done gradually. Have the food that the Pug has been used to eating on hand, as well as your new choice. Details regarding making this change can be found here: Feeding a Pug. You'll also want them to be sized appropriately and at floor level. Honey — Puppies are prone to the condition of hypoglycemia, which is a rapid and dangerous drop in blood sugar levels. Stress, among other things, can bring this on and while going to a new home is a happy event, it can also be stressful for a little pup that is leaving all that he knew and no longer has the companionship and friendship of his litter-mates. Treatment can be provided at home as plans are being made to bring the puppy to the closest animal hospital or veterinarian. A small dab of honey is rubbed onto the gums and then the puppy should receive professional treatment, sometimes an IV to restore sugar levels back to normal. Leash, collar and harness — Pugs are prone to conditions that involve breathing problems. The body structure of this breed confines breathing passages into a small space and Pugs can have smaller than normal nasal passages and openings stenotic nares. For this reason, using a harness can help a Pug breathe easier when on leash. A short 6 foot leash works best for both potty training and heeling. Read more : Choosing the Best Collar and Harness for a Pug Grooming supplies — The thick coat of a Pug sheds heavily and brushing it well and offering baths on a regular basis can help control shedding. Starting dental care at a young age can help a puppy become used to this grooming element and set up a foundation for a life time of good dental hygiene practices. Keeping the wrinkles, eyes and ears clean are important part of caring for a Pug puppy. Read more: Shedding - Expect your Pug to shed a lot and be prepared by having the right tools. Dental care - Taking care of your Pug's teeth should be high on your priority list. Ears - Expected shapes and proper care. Wrinkles - Keeping the wrinkles dry and clean. Sleeping supplies - Some owners prefer to have their puppy sleep in the bed with them and while this is not always a bad thing, an owner should think about how that will play out as the pup matures into a much larger adult dog. Having a pup get used to his own canine bed from the beginning, set up in a quiet corner of a room, may work out best. Do keep in mind that Pugs crave human companionship and do not like to feel isolated. Setting up the bed in a quiet corner of a well-used room allows a Pug to have a nice area to retreat to for rest and sleep while allowing him to be close to his human family. It will be normal for a little one to sleep anywhere from 16 to 18 hours a day.This included both night time sleep and naps that will be taken throughout the day. Chew Toys — Teething will begin around the age of 3 or 4 months old and can last up until a Pug puppy is 8 months old. Having a good supply of toys on hand for a puppy to chew on is important. Puppy Proofing Before bringing a puppy home and on a regular basis at least weekly owners are encouraged to go over all floors to remove any small objects that could be accidentally swallowed. All items that could be chewed on such as pocket books and shoes should be placed up high until the Pug has matured. Whining It is normal for very young puppies to cry when first brought to a new home, this usually only lasts for a week or so as the pup becomes used to his new family and environment. This can also be a sign of needing to go to the bathroom, so following house training guidelines, be sure to take your Pug puppy outside on a regular basis. Vaccinations for the Pug Puppy An important part of caring for your puppy will be to make sure he or she is up-to-date for all needed vaccinations. An 8-week-old should already have received his shots, as well as a de-worming. Veterinarians will have varying schedules, however this is a general guideline: 5 weeks Parvovirus: For puppies at high risk of exposure to parvo, some veterinarians recommend vaccinating at 5 weeks. Dogs at high risk are those that live in areas where wild life raccoon, skunk, deer, etc. The inclusion of either canine adenovirus-1 or adenovirus-2 in a vaccine will protect against both adenovirus cough and hepatitis; adenovirus-2 is highly preferred. You will want to talk to your veterinarian about this. Reactions to Vaccines Immunizations are intended to stimulate the immune system to then protect a dog against a specific infectious disease. It is very important to have your Pug receive all needed vaccinations. Your Pug may react to immunizations in ways that range from soreness at the site of injection to mild fever to allergic reactions. The allergic reactions can range from mild to severe. Mild- Mild reactions include fever, sluggishness, and loss of appetite. Mild reactions usually resolve without any treatment needed. This is called Urticaria. This happens when there is a reaction of the skin and shows as hives or bumps. It is usually extremely itchy. Urticaria may progress to anaphylaxis, which is considered life-threatening. However, Urticaria is the most common reaction in dogs if a reaction is to happen. Severe - The most severe reaction is anaphylaxis. This is a very fast, sudden, severe allergic response that causes breathing difficulties, collapse and possible death. This is very rare. Urticaria the moderate and most common reaction, if one is to occur happens soon after vaccination, often even before the puppy is brought home. It can happen in the car while you are driving back to your house. Your veterinarian will recommend immediate return to the hospital for treatment. Urticaria is usually treated successfully with injectable corticosteroids like dexamethasone or prednisone. Antihistamines do little to help with acute allergic reactions but may be given by injection to help prevent recurrence of symptoms after steroids wear off. Mild vaccination reactions usually require no treatment. However, if the symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, call your veterinarian. Growth Rate A Pug puppy grows quickly and this can happen gradually or with spurts and stops. Many Pug puppies have a growth spurt near the 3 to 5 month mark. As the pup nears the 1 year mark, growth will slow down. Once a Pug reaches his or her full height, there may still be some growth in the width of the Pug, as the chest widens and fills out. How a Pug ages and his growth is rapid, yet can be staggered during the first year. Getting Your Puppy Comfortable One of the most important parts of bringing a puppy home is allowing him or her to become used to their new surroundings. Allow your pup to roam around and check out his new environment. Be sure to keep a puppy's water in one designed spot so that the pup can know that it can always be found. The drinking and feeding area should be in a quite corner of a room, without much foot traffic or noise, since small puppies can feel vulnerable while eating. The absolute longest that a 2 month old pup can hold their needs is 2 hours. The bladder and bowel muscles are not yet fully developed. As they grow older, this time will increase as they have more control over their body. Usually it will increase by 1 hour for each month that goes by. Therefore, a 3 month old can hold on for about 3 hours, a 4 month old for about 4 hours and so on.With 8 hours being the maximum time for any age. Informational Note: When your 2 month old needs to go outside at least every 2 hours, be sure to not get stuck into that habit.It is important to slowly increase the time intervals. Your 3 month old can wait about 3 hours, but only if you allow the pup to use his bowel and bladder muscles to work and grow stronger. If an owner always brought their Pug outside every 2 hours, the dog would never learn to hold their needs for a longer period of time. Keep reading about the best way to house train a Pug puppy. All puppy vaccinations should be given before you take him or her out to the park, to pet supply stores or any other area in which there may have been or could be other animals. Many new owners already have another dog in the household. As your puppy grows older and is receiving the needed vaccinations, you can slowly begin introducing your new puppy to other dogs and allow normal socialization to begin. The Necessities of Care To have a healthy and happy puppy that will grow into a happy and healthy adult dog, make sure to always provide the essentials: A proper diet. You will need to decide if you want to offer manufacture food, home cooked food or a combination of both. Pugs are very sensitive to their human's emotions. A hug goes a long way! All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. But, owning a Pug does come with some challenges. Since Pugs are prone to carrying excess weight, this brings in the care elements of both eating a healthy diet and following an appropriate exercise schedule; though this can be tricky, since Pugs must be exercised with care in regard to both duration and intensity. Pugs have thick coats of fur with heavy shedding, lots of wrinkles that need to stay clean, and are generally prone to skin sensitivities. This all requires proper grooming and upkeep. Aside from this, is the general care that applies to every dog. While many owners do this as part of the excitement and preparation of bringing a new pup into the household, this is something that should be done on a regular basis throughout your Pug's life. This can lead to accidentally swallowing things, toxic poisoning, or choking. Proofing the house involves removing small items from the floor, placing cords out of reach or wrapping them in cord protectors, finding new places for shoes and other objects that may be chewed, and placing child-proof locks on any lower cabinets that a Pug may be able to access. The Pug is prone to skin yeast infections, eye issues, and is a heavy shedder, so this a breed that requires lots of grooming. It is best to stick to a schedule in regard to these care tasks. Baths - Bathe you Pug once every 3 weeks, even if your puppy or dog does not appear to be dirty. This will help prevent bad odors , keep skin properly moisturized, and loosen dead hairs from the coat. Young pups can be given a bath in the kitchen sink and older adults can be placed in the bathtub. Because the Pug has sensitive skin, use a shampoo that has a pH between 6. A terrific shampoo to use on Pugs is Earthbath Shampoo which has plant-based cleansers and no additives. The Oatmeal and Aloe formula is ideal for just about Pug since it works to keep skin in great shape. Don't forget about a wash-out conditioner. Hair cuticles open during the shampooing process and a conditioner smooths them down. Eye maintenance - Pug's eyes are large and slightly bulging which means they are prone to picking up debris that can irritate the eyes or scratch the cornea. Small food particles are a top culprit. Keep the eye area clean by wiping it at least once a day and as often as after each meal. For this, you can use the same type of wipe that you have for your Pug's wrinkles see next tip. Wrinkle maintenance - Pugs have lots of deep wrinkles on their head and face making these areas prone to skin infection, so attention must be given to keep these folds clean and dry. Wipe the wrinkles at least once a day, and up to 3 times a day by opening each fold and wiping it with a grooming wipe. If you are looking for a good grooming wipe, Earthbath All-Natural Grooming Wipes are excellent for cleaning wrinkles, wiping the eye area, and to spot-clean a Pug in between baths. Brushing - Pugs are heavy shedders, a lot of the dead hairs will stay lodged in the coat and some will fall to the floor. So, even if you do not notice much shedding, it's important to brush your Pug on a regular basis. Young puppies can be brushed once a week, but adult Pugs should be brushed at least every other day and as often as once per day. Use a tool that will reach down through this breed's thick coat and pull out all the loose and dead fur. While you may be envisioning using a brush, a grooming glove like the Delomo Pet Grooming Glove works very well on a Pug's dense coat. This has over grooming tips that latch onto dead hairs and debris. Pugs are a brachycephalic breed that is very prone to breathing issues. Using a collar when on leash, which places pressure on the trachea, is near guaranteed to exacerbate this. So, part of caring for a Pug involves using accessories that do not impede breathing. For this reason, a harness should be used any time a Pug is on a leash. Harnesses displace tension over the shoulders, back, and chest, leaving the neck free. This is a step-in design just the front legs are placed through the holes, so nothing has to slip over the head , there is an easy-close adjustable Velcro flap on the back, and it is made with air-mesh to keep a Pug cool and comfortable. What you choose to feed your Pug will have both short and long-term consequences, affecting everything from weight maintenance to allergies to intestinal health. Pugs do best with a dry kibble as opposed to a wet canned food; a dry formula tends to keep stools firm and is better for the teeth. Puppies should be fed 3 times a day and this can transition over to twice per day at the 9-month mark. Several dry snacks should be given in between meals and moist treats can be given to reward good behavior such as house training and obeying commands. This breed generally has a very hearty appetite and this, along with their intolerance for extended exercise, makes it easy to gain excess weight. Pugs also tend to have sensitive stomachs and are prone to skin reactions from food additives. Therefore, aim to provide all-natural foods that have no chemical preservatives, no artificial flavoring or dyes, and no by-products, high grain counts, generic meats or oils, corn, soy, or other cheap fillers. If you are not sure what rating your Pug's current dog food has, a good place to check this is Dog Food Advisor which rates the quality of hundreds of brands. And, if you are looking for a good kibble, one recommended brand is Wellness Complete for Small Breeds. For snacks and training treats, Wellness offers several good choices in their line, and if you have an adult Pug and you are working on helping them keep off excess pounds, a good low-calorie option is Fruitables Skinny Minis Dog Treats. Pugs need to drink 1. The tap water in many regions of the US, the UK, Canada and other countries is either outright unsafe or improperly monitored. A number of studies have found drugs in tap water including contraceptive medications, Prozac, Naproxen, Ibuprofen and even illegal drugs; these contain fine particles that are not caught by municipal filtration systems. Other toxins include Chromium-6 a known carcinogen , fluoride which is toxic to canines , chlorite which can cause central nervous problems and HCB which can cause can cause liver disease and skin lesions. And, heavy metals are also an issue. So, for this care tip you can offer bottled spring water, a filtering device that connects your kitchen tap, or a more portable device like the Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher. Pugs are prone to bloat, a dangerous and potentially fatal twisting of the stomach. Raised bowls are a contributing factor, as well as eating or drinking too fast or too close to a bout of exercise. For this reason, place food and water in floor-level bowls. If your Pug tends to gulp down his food or water quickly, use a slow-feeder bowl. After eating a meal, do not take your Pug out for exercise for at least one hour. Another element to consider is that stainless-steel bowls are recommended since plastic bowls can cause allergic reactions to either the material itself or to dyes and tend to more easily harbor bacteria, fits the requirements of both height and material. When saliva and tiny food particles mix into water, this creates a slimy film in the dish, which can lead to a dog avoiding it. With food bowls, caked on food can lead to a buildup of bacteria and even mold. Make it a habit to wash both of your Pug's dishes with hot water and soap every day. Since dogs can be very protective of their bowls, a good time to do this is in the evening, after dinner or once your Pug has gone to sleep. Despite their reputation for being lazy, Pugs can have a good amount of energy. And, you'll want to meet this by keeping your Pug moving along, for several reasons: Exercise plays an important role in a Pug's physical health; it's good for the heart and lungs, regulates metabolism, helps maintain proper muscle composition, boosts the immune system, and can keep certain diseases at bay including canine diabetes and even some forms of cancer. Exercise also plays a vital role in a dog's mental health; it allows a dog to release any restlessness that bottles up and allows for desensitization and socialization to all outside elements. At the same time, too much exertion in either duration or intensity can lead to breathing difficulties or overheating for this brachycephalic breed. So, the goal for this care element is to exercise your Pug on a regular basis while keeping in mind your dog's limitations. Pugs do best with at least two walks per day. Each session should last a minimum of 20 minutes, but can extend to 45 minutes or even longer if your Pug is game. Breaks should be taken at the halfway mark of a short walk, every 15 to 20 minutes for a longer walk, or any time that a Pug is breathing noticeably heavier than normal. Bring your Pug into the shade and offer fresh water, ensuring that breathing is back to normal before starting up again. Light to moderate cardio sessions can also be added in, with a rousing game of fetch being the easiest to play and one that most dogs love. Pugs are sensitive to seasonal changes in temperature and some care elements will need to be adjusted. Summer - Hot humid weather makes summertime care a bit tricky with Pugs. Breathing issues are more pronounced and it's more difficult to keep a Pug active. It can help to take your little guy or gal for walks in the early morning and then later in the evening, avoiding the hottest parts of the day. You can help your Pug stay cool by offering lots of water and refreshing treats like frozen blueberries or raspberries. Stay aware of hot walking surfaces which can cause burns to a dog's paws. Take routes in the shade when possible and use a paw wax to offer a layer of protection. Another helpful care tip is to give your Pug a cooling mat to rest on. The Green Pet Shop Self-Cooling Pet Pad works by drawing excess heat away from the body, is self-activating you don't have to plug it in , and can be used both indoors and outdoors. Winter - Plunging temperatures and slippery weather conditions can make wintertime care a bit challenging as well. Fortunately, Pugs have thick coats which help them stay warm in the winter, but never-the-less, many don't like to go out when it's snowy and cold. And, even with dense fur, dogs that are outside for too long, particularly when it's below freezing, are vulnerable to developing hypothermia. So, continue to take your Pug out for their regular exercise sessions, but limit this on days with heavy winter precipitation or below-freezing temperatures. Another aspect to keep in mind is that arid winter air can lead to issues with dry skin. Be sure you are using a hydrating shampoo see care tip 2: Baths and apply a paw wax every two weeks to offer better traction and keep the paw pads in good shape. The Pug is prone to certain issues related to the joints, bones, and ligaments including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and Legg-Calve-Perthes. In addition to this, all dogs age 8-years and up suffer from some level of osteoarthritis and this is more common with breeds that have the aforementioned issues. For this reason, supplying your Pug with a quality bed to rest and sleep on that provides good cushioning and proper support for the body is vital. This should be an appropriately sized orthopedic memory foam bed with at least a 2-inch base. Either a flat mattress or a bolster bed will work and sometimes dogs do have a preference. Because Pugs tend to snore and may have other sleep-related breathing issues, like sleep apnea, being able to place their head on a bolstered cushion which helps extend the neck can be helpful. This also has a non-slip backing and the cover is machine-washable. There are lots of effective toys that can help your Pug in a number of ways and it's always better to have just a few that do their job than a ton that are ignored. Teething puppies need teething toys that help them scratch their itchy gums and soothe the discomfort of erupting teeth. Pugs of all ages that enjoy chewing should be given durable chew toys that they find pleasant to use, as opposed to looking to non-toy items in the house. Pugs that are home alone and suffer from separation anxiety can be helped with interactive toys that respond to them and a companion toy that helps ease feelings of isolation. Toys breeds and brachycephalic breeds are both prone to tooth decay, so that means that if you have a Pug you need to pay particular attention to keeping your dog's teeth clean and healthy. A build up of plaque, which eats away at tooth enamel and can travel under the gum line, can lead to terribly painful infections, tooth loss and more. Taking care of your Pug's teeth includes brushing the teeth with a quality canine toothbrush and effective canine toothpaste, or using a spray if your Pug is intolerant to brushings, and offering daily dental treats like GREENIES Dental Chews. Note that this applies to puppies as well, since decay on milk teeth can affect adult teeth that are waiting to emerge. Pugs should have their teeth examined by the veterinarian at least once a year during their wellness checks. An x-ray may be taken to look for any decay and if there is plaque or tartar present, this may require a 'full dental' which involves scraping the teeth clean. This is done with a dog under light sedation. Trauma is one of the leading causes of death for all puppies, the Pug breed included, and is a top concern for Pugs of all ages. Many instances of severe injury and death can be prevented by following some simple care tips: If your Pug has trouble navigating stairs most applicable to puppies and seniors , block these off with a gate. When outside, never allow your Pug to be off leash. Never allow your Pug to be in the yard unsupervised. If you have a puppy, do not allow anyone to handle him unless they have been shown proper handling techniques, which includes using both hands, one under the rump and one supporting the chest. Have young children stay on floor level to play with your Pug. Always be aware of where you are walking, especially at night, so that your puppy or dog is not accidentally stepped on or tripped over. If your Pug will be a passenger in your car, use a safe canine car seat or a canine belt restraint. These yearly for dogs age 1 and up or twice-per-year typically starting at age 8 visits are crucial for good health, prevention, and the best possible prognosis, should any issues be detected. The vet will perform a full physical examination to check for issues seen with canines in general and health issues specific to the Pug breed. Vitals will be taken temperature, pulse rate, respiratory rate and your Pug will be weighed. The head will be checked eyes, ears, nose, mouth. The coat and the skin will be examined to look for any signs of concern. Proper posture will be assessed, knees and hips will be examined, and reflexes will be checked. A stool sample will be tested for possible parasites and a blood test will be run to evaluate overall health, flag any infections, and check organ function and electrolyte and protein levels. Senior dogs may have more advanced testing, including x-rays. During the visit, this is your opportunity to ask any questions; a good owner is an involved owner. The American Humane Association estimates over 10 million dogs and cats are lost or stolen in the US every year. Here are some tips to prevent this: If your Pug tends to run off, consider spaying or neutering. Intact dogs can have strong urges to take off, looking for a mate. If your Pug darts for the door as soon as its open, have a rule that everyone knocks before entering to allow enough time for someone to hold onto the dog. Consider having your Pug micro-chipped; dogs with chips are returned to owners at a much higher rate than those without. Have current photos of your Pug. If your dog does become lost, create 'lost dog' posters and bring these to all animal services and shelters within a mile area dogs are sometime brought to local shelters but send further away if there is over-crowding. Did you find these care tips to be helpful? This is available in both soft-cover paperback and ebook. Pug Paw Care - The most common issues seen and helpful tips to keep the paws in excellent shape. When a Pug is Super Itchy - Top reasons that cause both acute and chronic itchiness and how to offer fast relief. Housebreaking a Pug - Pugs typically aim to please, but house training can still be a bit challenging. See exact guidelines for fast success. Tips to Keep a Pug Busy and Occupied - Does your Pug stay home alone or seem lost unless you interact with him or her? See super-helpful advice to keep your Pug entertained and happy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. He is goofy, silly, and fun. Pugs were originally bred to be lap dogs and this is evident in the affection that they show to their owners. Nothing makes a Pug happier than being a member of the family. With their large heads, big, sparkling eyes, and wrinkled faces, Pugs are able to achieve a wide variety of human-like expressions- happiness, surprise, and curiosity. If bad doggie breath is a problem in your house, Spray Me comes to the rescue! So whether you have a Pug already or are wanting to adopt one, here are all the facts and tips for creating a lasting bond between you and your pup. Meet The Pug Height: inches tall at the shoulder Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years Fur type: Pugs have a double coat of short, smooth hair. But they do shed a lot, because of this they are not hypoallergenic. Color: Typically fawn or black. But coats can have different tints like apricot or silver. Personality Pugs are happy, affectionate, loyal, charming, playful, and mischievous. They can be trained to be social from a young age. They are even tempered and gentle. Many people would say that Pugs are a lot of dog in a little space. Pugs tend to be sensitive to the moods of their owners and are eager to please them. Energy Level Pugs are a small, quiet breed, and are for the most part inactive while indoors. They are great for apartment dwellers. While they are docile and peaceful dogs, they do require a daily walk or some playtime to get their wiggles out. Good With Children Because they are bigger and sturdier than most other toy breeds, Pugs are an ideal pet for children. They can withstand some rough play and love to be around people. They are sweet and loving by nature and will protect your children as well as entertain them with their goofy and charming antics. However, if your children are looking for more of an active breed that they can play fetch with or take for long walks, a Pug would not be the best choice for your family. Good With Other Dogs If trained from a young age, Pugs can learn to be social with other animals and can even be trusted with other animals like cats and rabbits. Shedding Pugs have a short, double coat, and shed profusely. We recommend that if you live with a pug, to invest in a vacuum cleaner! Grooming Needs Regular brushing and monthly baths will help keep your Pugs coat in great condition and shedding to a minimum. A rubber curry brush will help remove and catch the shedding hair. Pugs do not naturally wear down their nails, so regular nail-trimmings are necessary. Teach your Pug to tolerate teeth cleaning. This will help prevent him from getting gingivitis. It may seem like a daunting challenge, but the more frequently you brush your Pugs teeth, the more acclimated to it they will become. One of the best things that you can do for your pug to ensure a long healthy life is to regularly clean out his face folds. The wrinkly folds on his face, although adorable, are a hot breeding spot for infection and bacteria. It is very important that after baths you dry out the folds and in-between baths you clean them out. You can use a dry cotton ball to get the junk out or a wet wipe, whichever you have handy. They do have a love for food, so using treats to your advantage might help your little guy learn quicker. Start training your puppy from the minute you bring him home, the earlier you start training, the faster he will pick it up and learn to behave well. How To Feed My Pug If you allow your pug to eat as much as he would like to, you will end up a roly-poly puppy. Pugs will eat everything and anything that you give them, so be sure to measure out their food and feed them small meals at regularly scheduled times. Pugs are usually allergic to foods like corn, soy, and wheat. Try feeding them raw food. Eating a raw, natural diet will ensure the best health of your Pug. Your Pug will love eating raw food! A high-quality diet of Raw food will ensure the best health condition for your pup. Because Pugs are prone to obesity, watch their calorie intake and weight. If you chose to give your dog treats, do so in moderation. Give table scraps sparingly and try to avoid giving your furry friend cooked bones or foods that are high in fat. Feeding Your Puppy Your cute little Pug should start eating a scheduled diet around 8 weeks. He should eat 4 times a day. This schedule should be followed until your furry friend reaches 3 months of age. At this time you Pug can start eating 3 times a day instead of 4. Feeding Your Adult Once your Pug reaches 1 year, he will be ready to start eating adult food. At this time you may also want to decrease his eating from 3 times a day to twice daily. This will be your best option because Pugs tend to gain weight very easily. He should be broad at the shoulders and narrower beyond the shoulders, with a slight widening in the rump area. If you Pug happens to have a square shape, he is getting too much food. Health Concerns For Pugs To ensure you are getting a healthy Pug never buy one from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill, or pet store. Heat stroke: Pugs suffer from heat stroke if they are outside for too long. When outside with your pug, watch for signs of overheating. They are definitely house dogs and should not be kept outside Breathing: Because of their short snout, pugs are prone to wheezing, snorting, and snoring loudly. Obesity: Be aware of how much you are giving your Pug. If your Pug is developing a square shape, he is eating too much. Pug Dog Encephalitis: This disease is not treatable nor is it testable. Most vets cannot diagnose it until after the death of the dog. It is an inflammation of the brain and meninges. It usually occurs between 6 and 7 months of age and is fatal. Will my pug bite? Pugs are strong-willed but rarely aggressive. They will only bite in moments where they feel threatened or the need to protect. When will my pug stop growing? Some Pugs will actually stop growing then, others will put on a few more pounds before they reach a year. At 1 year your pug puppy will be considered an adult, and by this time their full height is reached. They will still keep filling out in width in the chest area and a little more muscle until about 18 months. If you notice your pug gaining weight in other areas or later than 18 months he may be gaining unnecessary weight and should be checked out by the veterinarian. Can pug eyes pop out? Since Pugs have such beautiful bulgy eyes, they can accidentally go through something call proptosis, which is the popping out of the eyes. You might think this to be a very uncommon, scary thing, but in reality, it is more normal than you think. It is most common among breeds with short snouts and shallow eye sockets, like pugs. It can be a result of a trauma or it can happen completely all of a sudden. Immediately call your vet and she will give you further instruction on how to help your dog. Can pigs swim? Like most dogs, Pugs have a natural ability to swim. Does that mean that he will like the water? Not always. Make sure you introduce your pug to the water in a fun, positive way so that he will have a great first experience. This first time will really make it or break it in terms of him enjoy or disliking the pool. The barrel shape of your Pug does make it harder for him to swim than other breeds and he may get tired very quickly, but as long as you are there to supervise and help him if he starts to panic, he should be fine to swim. When will my pug go in heat? Your female pug could start her first heat as early as 4 months or as late as 15 months. The most typical time is between 4 and 6 months of age. The average heat cycle will last from 2 to 3 weeks and your pug will enter heat every 5 to 8 months. How much do pugs cost? It all depends on pedigree, the area of the country, and health tests that the breeder has done on the parents. Many people would think that the more expensive the pug, the better the quality of life it will have. While that may be a good guess, price does not always indicate how your pug will live. Buying a puppy at weeks is always a guessing game. Are pug puppies hyper? Pug puppies are known to be more energetic than their older parents. This energy usually lasts until about 1 year of age. At this time they tend to slow down and really embrace their lazy personality. Why does my pug howl? Pugs are very loyal dogs. They attach themselves to their humans and love them with all they are. They do not like to be left alone. Some Pugs have been known to howl when their humans leave. Every dog is different though, you might get a pug that howls in conversation or one that never makes any noise. Why do pug tails curl? Kind of like our tailbones. It consists of bone and cartilage. This is an anomaly in how the vertebra develops. Specifically, the bones and the tail form a twisting wedge shape. The twisting is what causes the tail to curl. So if you are looking for a dog with a ton of personality, one that will make you laugh as well as love you until his dying days, look no further. Your Pug will be your constant companion. He will love you as no has ever loved you before. Give him a lot of attention and love and you will have a forever best friend. About Jenna Barrington Hi! My name is Jenna and I am a proud pet parent of a gorgeous Golden Retriever. I grew up surrounded by animals and developed a love for anything on four legs! I spent a year working as a night puppy nurse for Doberman Pinchers, delivering puppies and taking care of all the health needs of the parents. I work now as a professional copywriter and researcher and am happy to be able to share my love for dogs by contributing to TruDog. Small Pets Taking Care of a Pug Puppy Pugs are some of the most soulful looking animals on the planet, and are very expressive. You can easily recognize a pug as these small breed dogs have a wrinkly face and a curled tail. They first came to international prominence when mobile operator Vodafone used them to endorse their brand —the ad with the pug, named Hutch in the ad, was a stupendous success with the pug soon becoming a household name. But there are certain things that you must be aware of if you also want to adopt this cute pet. Unlike adult pugs, small pug dogs are most likely to suffer from a number of health issues ranging from obesity, overheating and pharyngeal reflex. So, you need to be the doubly careful when dealing with these vulnerable puppies. If you are worried, you can take heart from the fact that taking care of the pups is uncomplicated and easy as they have very few demands. Before bringing home the pug puppy Ensure that you have all the grooming items in place starting from brush, cotton swabs, and petroleum jelly to puppy shampoo and dog treats. Here are some guidelines that you can refer to when taking care of the pug puppy: Training the puppy to follow your commands: There is no substitute for a well-trained dog, so train the puppy from day one. The first six months are the most crucial as during this period, he will learn the most which will mold him. Every time he responds correctly to your commands, like sit, run, jump, and come, give him some treats and words of encouragement. But there is one caveat: keep the sessions short as being such a young dog, his power of concentration is limited. To start with, minute sessions would be ok. Also, when taking him for a walk, better use a harness which will provide protection to his windpipe. Potty training: This is a very important stage of puppy training. When he is young, he has very little control over his bladder, so you need to take him out for potty breaks more frequently than you would do to an adult. He may demand potty breaks every hours at this stage, but as he grows older and his control over the bladder imp roves, the frequency will gradually become normal. However, under no circumstances, you should overlook his tendency to soil corners of the home thinking that it is an isolated incident, because it is not. Deal with such incidents with a firm no, or else he will become a big nuisance and a lazy dog. Grooming routine: The pug has a double coat which keeps shedding continuously, so daily grooming is essential. Brush the pug at least twice every week and vacuum him extensively. In what is unusual, pug dogs are very fond of water, unlike other dogs. You can easily find soaps and other bath related items that are designed for puppies in the local outlet, use them. Try oatmeal based shampoos which not only keeps his skin soft, but protects his sensitive skin. Pugs have narrow ear canals, so chances of getting an ear infection if water gets into its ear are higher in pugs. What you can do is use soft tissues or a cotton ball to wipe the ear clean and dry. If your pug is shaking his head violently, then it may indicate an ear infection —and if there is an infection, get in touch with the vet immediately. Cleaning of Pug Wrinkles Pug wrinkles are called folds, which serve as a great place to accumulate all sorts of unwanted stuff like water, mucous, dirt, tear, food etc. Cleaning of pug wrinkles is an easy task and getting the Pug used to it at an early age is a good idea. Some owners use an Ear Bud or Q-Tip for this purpose, but we would not recommend this as the slightest struggle from your Pug could cause an eye injury. Instead, you can use baby wipes or medicated wipes. You can fill a cup with lukewarm water and dip the baby wipes or cotton swab in it. After that, run the moist tip of baby wipes through the wrinkles so that all dirt and grime particle come out. At the end, you should use a cotton swab to smear petroleum jelly inside the wrinkles to keep the internal skin protected. Tackling overheating issues: Pugs are adversely affected by warm conditions and may get dehydrated. So, ensure that the living condition of the pup is cool- special care needs to be taken during the summers when the pugs feel great discomfort. Regularly check the room temperature where the pug is kept, and if you feel that the room is too hot, you have to either move it to a cool room or else you have to provide him with lots of water. In extreme conditions, there are cold compresses that you can put on his belly till it cools down. Exercise: Pugs are actually overweight for their size, so unless they exercise a lot heath issues are a given. Take him for a daily walk and play different games with it which will help it maintain its health. Be careful not to take him out on a bright sunny day, as it can dehydrate him. Feeding the puppy: There are special diets that are designed for pugs. But you may be unsure which brand to select for your puppy as there are so many different brands in the market. The best thing to do in such a situation is to take the advice of a vet. Pugs would eat almost anything and in the process put on a lot of weight. So, make it a point not to overfeed it. Also, if your dog prefers a particular food and you want to wean it away from that food, do it gradually. Normally, puppies in the age group 3 to 6 months should be fed at least three times a day. And from 6 months to 1 year, change it to two times. To make the feeding process easier for the pet, try using bowls that has an elevated shape off the ground. For more guidance, please refer to this article : Puppy feeding tips for new dog owners Dealing with obesity: Overeating will not only make the pug overweight, but may pave the way for ailments like leg pain, eye disorders, and lung problems. About Rahul From Delhi, Rahul is an animal lover at heart. He is a writer and most of his writing revolves around making people aware of animal issues like health, training and grooming.

Things to do with your English Bulldog Maryland is a great place to live with an English bulldog. The state has a diverse landscape, plenty of outdoor activities, and dog-friendly businesses. Hike the Trails Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. There are many hiking trails in Maryland that are perfect for English bulldogs. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog, and take breaks often. Visit a Campground Camping is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many campgrounds in Maryland that allow dogs. Be sure to bring a tent, sleeping bags, food, water, and other supplies. There are many places to fish in Maryland, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to get a fishing license and follow all the rules and regulations. Go Boating Boating is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many places to boat in Maryland, both on rivers and lakes. Be sure to bring a life jacket for your dog and follow all the safety rules. There are many places to swim in Maryland, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to supervise your dog at all times and follow all the safety rules. Visit a Dog Park Dog parks are a great place for English bulldogs to run and play off-leash. There are many dog parks in Maryland, both in urban and rural areas. Visit Pet-Friendly Businesses Maryland has a number of pet-friendly businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and stores. These are just a few of the many things you can do with your English bulldog in Maryland. With its stunning scenery, endless activities, and friendly people, Maryland is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in Maryland? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. The ones available in the state are far and few if they are from ethical breeders. You may have to travel or have one of the breeders responsibly ship your pup to you. If you find a breeder outside the list, ensure they follow the AKC-approved breeding standards. You could also try messaging the reviewers. If you want the dog to be shipped, also ask about how safe and humane their shipping practices are. Look for a breeder who is passionate about the breed and is committed to improving it. Puppies introduced to people and other animals are prone to be better tempered than those bred and raised in mills. Ask many questions about health testing practices. A responsible breeder will test their breeding dogs for common health issues and will provide you with the paperwork. Here are some fun facts about the breed: English Bulldogs are one of the oldest dog breeds, first bred in England in the s. Sadly, they were originally bred for the cruel bull-baiting sport, which was soon outlawed. Although they have a tough exterior, English Bulldogs are big softies! They are affectionate and gentle dogs. Other than their wrinkly face and short nose, they are also known for their distinctive underbite. English Bulldogs have a strong sense of loyalty and are known for their stubbornness. Sometimes, this means more work for training! English Bulldogs are often used as mascots! In fact, they are the mascot of the British Bulldog Breed Council. Because of their short snouts, they have breathing difficulties. Thus, they do not do well in hot climates and can often suffer from heatstroke. If you plan to take them to hot weather, keep them cool and well-hydrated. English Bulldogs are notorious for being couch potatoes. They just love napping! This is why you must ensure they exercise regularly to maintain their weight and health. Despite their sometimes comical appearance, English Bulldogs have a history of bravery and were used as war dogs during World War I. They were even used as mascots for military regiments. Frequently Asked Questions Are English bulldogs easy to potty train? English Bulldogs do well with patient, continuous training. They may not pick up on potty training as quickly as other breeds. How long can an English Bulldog hold its pee? Not very long. After six hours, they usually need to go. No, this does not work as well as positive reinforcement. But even though they are not many, you must be particular about picking a breeder with the best practice. English Bulldogs make a loveable companion, so give them a good shot at a fulfilling life. Make an informed choice and pick your future pup from an ethical breeder like the ones mentioned above.

Both of these proven, top working bloodlines have reliably and consistently produced quality working dogs! Very few breeders have these honors, especially in North America. Thank you for taking such care in your program that you can provide such an animal as this one. Rebekkah A lovely young Sapphire Shepherds female with owner, enjoying each other's company on the farm. Nov we take the tracking exam! He's an amazing dog, I am very grateful for you pairing us together. C" A multi generation bred dog from Sapphire Shepherds. This website documents our history of involvement in this beloved breed. We are blessed to have a long history of top representatives of Working German Shepherds grace our lives. Please reach out to Ramona with questions and thank you for your visit! This kennel name was chosen as Ramona grew up in the foothills of the beautiful Sapphire Mountain range in Montana. Sapphire is a gemstone associated with royalty. It is believed to attract abundance, blessings, good fortune and gifts. It has been used to protect against negative energies, bring calmness, strength and spiritual clarity. The below image of Sapphire Shepherds business logo was designed by Ramona. It incorporates her photo of Xurk of Sapphire Mountain, a male who is a work of art inside and out. We are very happy to speak or correspond with you about our German Shepherds via phone, email and allow appointments to view dogs on premises. We are not members of, nor do we post on forums and we are not on social media. Thanks again for breeding such a magnificent dog! Ginger Facebook Our new pup is absolutely beautiful! Super smart and everything we were told he would be. The customer service was excellent! April was very responsive and took the time to answer all our questions. First rate experience! Melissa google So happy with my puppy. Almost 6 months old and he is growing into a phenomenal dog! He is my constant shadow and such a joy to have in our lives! So much thanks to this kennel for the wonderful dogs the are producing. Rebekah google We received Hans at 10 weeks. What a lovable, beautiful puppy. Easy to train! Hans is quite possibly the best dog we've ever owned. Stephanie google Couldn't be happier with my puppy. I will for sure buy every one of my future dogs from them. Such a pleasure to do business with. I love my dog so much, so healthy and beautiful! Nelson google We worked with April for a male and a female, great service and they did work with us on a payment plan which was unexpected but appreciated! Great experience and super dogs! Asa google Our puppy is absolutely gorgeous. He's brilliant and perfect in every way. Would highly recommend them. Wendy google We have two dogs from April. Male is 2 and female is 9 months, they are the best dogs! Our male is super obedient and full of energy, our female is protective and alert. They are both loyal and great family protectors. Solid and confident. We are regular people with extraordinary dogs. Heather google Amazing, my family and I love our female puppy! She is super easy to train, super gentle, and very lovable! Best dog ever! Thank you! Kaycee google We have purchased multiple puppies from April and have been completely satisfied with each and every one. Extremely intelligent, loving and courageous. Thank you again April. Puppy pads Create a Schedule German Shepherd pups would do well with a schedule. Dogs live with a routine, and they are easy to train by having one. For this reason, make a schedule of the things you need to do regularly. Eventually, your pup will learn the routine events and will make itself adept at them. It will help you prepare for your pet, especially in the first few days of living together. As you allow your pet to adjust, do your best to create a stress-free environment for it. Always supervise it as it familiarizes itself with its new home. Still, it would be best to prepare yourself for loud noises when your pet is asleep. Moderate Training German Shepherds are highly trainable. It simply means they respond well, especially to positive reinforcement. Squeaky Toys Out of all toys, your pet will love the squeaky ones. For this reason, prepare for a lot of loud squeaks every time your pet is active. Thus, in picking your pet, you may want to consider getting it from the best. Tells you any health problems A good breeder will tell you any significant health problems in any of the dogs he or she bred. Asks more questions than you A good breeder would ask for more items from you than you would for him or her. Not in a hurry to send off A good breeder is not in a hurry to send the puppies off and get your money. He or she will even show you other breeders and veterinarians caring for their dogs. Requires expectations on both sides A good breeder will create a contract that offers not only what he or she expects from you. More than that, he or she will also show what you can expect from him or her. Sends puppies properly A good breeder will never send a puppy in a compartment and without any responsible person to go with it. Works only with one or two breeds A good breeder works only with a single or a couple of species. Shows breeding experience A good breeder shows her dogs in recognized confirmation shows. He or she will also join his or her breed in other breed-related performance events. Other states.

Illness The reason that your German Shepherd puppy has been crying a lot could be that it is ill or injured. It would also be more likely if something recently happened that might have caused it to become ill or injured. If you think that illness or injury might be the cause then the best option for you would be to take it to a vet. Fear The reason that your German Shepherd puppy has been crying a lot could be that it gets frightened. This would be more likely if it only seems to be crying when things happen that might frighten it. Related post: Why is my German Shepherd always afraid? It wants attention It could be the case that your German Shepherd puppy cries a lot because it wants to get attention from you. In this case, it would be likely that it has learned that crying gets it the attention that it wants so it cries more. To stop it you could try giving it more attention throughout the day and to stop giving it attention when it starts crying and then to carry on giving it attention when it is not crying. Boredom Another reason that it cries a lot could be that it is bored. This would be more likely if it tends to cry more when it is not doing anything and if it tends to cry at around the time that it usually gets to do something. German Shepherds are meant to be very active dogs and it is generally recommended that they get at least an hour of exercise per day. If your German Shepherd is not getting an hour of exercise per day then making sure that it does would likely be a good start. However, German Shepherd puppies are not supposed to get as much exercise since their joints are still developing. Generally, it is recommended to give a German Shepherd puppy 5 minutes of exercise, per day, for every month of age. So, a 2 month old puppy should get about 10 minutes of exercise daily. Other ways that you can reduce its boredom would be to spend time training it or to give it toys to play with. Excitement It could also be the case that it seems to cry when it becomes excited. This would be more likely if it only seems to cry when things happen that would cause it to get excited. Examples could be: When it is about to go out for a walk When you are playing with it Related post: How to tell if your German Shepherd loves you Nature It is not unusual for German Shepherd puppies to cry a lot. Sometimes they will cry without any apparent cause. It is likely that it will begin to cry less as it gets older. However, if it is crying constantly then it would help to take it to a vet to rule out illness or injury. Things to consider Before trying to get it to cry less it would help to know exactly what is causing it to cry so much. Below, I will mention a few particularly helpful things that you can consider. What is different when it cries A useful thing to consider would be when and where your German Shepherd puppy tends to cry. If it tends to only cry in certain situations then it would be very likely that it has something to do with the crying. If your German Shepherd puppy started to cry more, suddenly, then it would make it more likely that it has started to cry more due to things such as stress, fear, being mistreated, illness or injury or a change in its lifestyle. It would help to consider what happened at around the time that your German Shepherd puppy started to cry more. Things that you could think about would include: If someone left home If another pet passed away If something happened that might have caused it to get injured If someone was mean to it If you moved home If it did start crying a lot more, suddenly, then it would help to take it to a vet to rule out illness or injury. How to get your German Shepherd puppy to stop crying all the time Below, I will mention a number of things that you can do about your German Shepherd puppy crying all the time. Avoid punishing it It might be tempting to punish your German Shepherd puppy by shouting at it or even hitting it. However, it is very important not to do so. If you do then you will likely cause it to become fearful, it will develop behavioral issues and it will not be trusting of you. Avoid encouraging the behavior If your method of getting it to stop crying is to give it things that it wants, it could be the case that you have inadvertently encouraged it to do it more. Instead, try to avoid giving it attention or rewards unless it is necessary and then to reward it when it is being well behaved. Take it to a vet If you are unsure of why your German Shepherd puppy cries, it has started doing it suddenly or it has been acting unusually then it would help to get the expert advice of a vet. Ensure that its diet is correct If it is not getting the nutrients that it needs in its diet it could be causing your German Shepherd puppy to cry. If you want to get your German Shepherd to cry less and for it to be as healthy as possible it is important to make sure that it is eating correctly. You can look here to see what you should be feeding it. If you are unsure of what food to get for your German Shepherd, consider getting dog food designed specifically for German Shepherds. You can find dog food specifically designed for German Shepherd puppies on Chewy here. Give it things to be distracted with such as a chew toy If you think that boredom could also be the reason that your German Shepherd puppy keeps crying then it would be an option to give it things to keep it distracted. Things that you could do could include giving it toys to play with, puzzles for dogs to complete or chews to chew on. You can watch the video below to see more tips on what you can do to get your German Shepherd puppy to cry less. You can watch the video below for more tips on what you can do to get your German Shepherd puppy to cry less. If you want a happy and obedient German Shepherd, this is one of the best online dog training programs available right now. You can get the first month free using This link. August 31, Credit: Alamy The heartbreaking whimper of a puppy calling for you will tug on the heartstrings like few other things, but you don't have to suffer — and you don't have to leave it crying either, as Ben Randall explains. Can you help? Five steps to stop your puppy crying at night 1. Crate training a puppy can really help with that, as it gives them a secure and comfortable place of their own. How long should you let a baby or puppy cry for before you go to comfort them? You have to consider two things: first, will leaving them alone be negative or positive? And second, how long should you leave them for? The stress can then potentially bring on scratching, chewing, diarrhoea… and a psychological problem with getting in to a crate even in other contexts. Leave them for five mins or so, then walk in comfort them with stroking and a calm voice. If the crying starts up again, go back — but not too quickly Letting a dog cry for long enough to get stressed or upset is counter-productive, but so is coming back to him immediately every time they cry — if you do that, your pet is effectively giving you a dose of dog recall training! A few minutes is plenty to stop that from happening, though; just go back and comfort them again, and then leave the room as you did before. Let their bed be a safe space at any time of day Recommended videos for you With my own puppies, they often take themselves out of the kitchen into the hall by the stairs and stand or sit next to their crate. When they do this I start to leave it open so they have access to it, so they have their safe spot to retreat to. Uninterrupted sleep is possible… Dog recall training: Six tips from champion dog trainer Ben Randall Training your dog is not easy — and with the huge recent rise in dog ownership, it's never been a better A puppy will quickly get used to his or her crate — and it'll become a safe place in the house. Credit: Sarah Farnsworth for Country Life Award-winning dog trainer Ben Randall — who looks after the dogs for everyone from David Beckham to Gordon Ramsay — happened Credit: Alamy Fed up with Fido leaping onto the furniture — whether it's your sofa, armchair, or your bed — whenever he Credit: Getty Introducing a dog to a cat can be nerve-wracking, but get it right and the two of them can get Related. Aug 3, Share As a dog parent, you know that German Shepherds tend to whine at the most inopportune times. It could be several things, including the dog being sick or in pain. However, before calling the veterinarian, you can examine our list of seven reasons German Shepherds whine and how to stop it. Your Shepherd Needs to Go to the Bathroom The reason your German Shepherd is whining could be as simple as the dog needing to go outside to potty. The dog might whine, then run to or stare at the door, trying to tell you it needs to go outside. This whining usually happens right after your dog wakes up from a nap or just a few minutes after it eats. The dog could be whining because it wants your attention and is ready to cuddle or play. Image Credit: Happy monkey, Shutterstock 3. You can cure this by ensuring your dog gets at least 2 hours of physical exercise daily and providing it with many challenging games and toys. A hyperactive, bored German Shepherd will become destructive, aggressive, and whiny, so make sure your dog gets the exercise and mental stimulation it needs to be healthy and happy. The Dog Is Happy to See You Dogs, including German Shepherds, are usually happy to see their pet parents when they walk through the door in the evening. Your German Shepherd may whine when it first sees you out of sheer excitement. If the whining is accompanied by a lack of appetite, drowsiness, or other signs of sickness, you must take the dog to the vet for an examination. Until your appointment, it will help to comfort and love your pet to make it feel better. An illness or injury should never be ignored because it can cause other health issues if not addressed by a veterinarian and treated promptly. Your Shepherd Is Stressed Although German Shepherds are known for being fearless dogs , they get scared, anxious, and stressed. If your German Shepherd is whining and none of the reasons above apply, your dog may be stressed or afraid of something. Some events that could be stressing your dog and making it whine include storms, fireworks, and even a stranger in the home. Image Credit: Pxhere 7. There are a few other signs of a dog trying to apologize, including keeping its ears flat, its tail between its legs, and a droopy body. Ask your vet for recommendations Ignore the whining unless your dog needs to go potty Give your dog plenty of attention Train your pet not to whine professionally if needed Distract the dog Image Credit: Sam Wordley, Shutterstock Final Thoughts German Shepherds are known for being courageous, loving, protective, and loyal pets. However, they do tend to whine a bit. However, you should make an appointment with your vet if the whining continues to ensure your dog is not suffering from an injury or illness. How can we tell if a German Shepherd puppy is crying for real or attention? While the whining and crying might be aggravating, you can do things to lessen the whining and this guide will show you how. Why does a German Shepherd puppy cry? German Shepherds are known to whine more than other dogs. Attention German Shepherds love getting attention from their owners, which could bring whining. If the dog is near you, has toys, and their body language looks good, they probably want your attention. Boredom German Shepherds are high-energy dogs and need a lot of exercise to get that energy out. If the dog is whining out of boredom, create a play and exercise routine for them. Fear Similar to people, dogs get scared. They may begin to while around storms, new people, or stressful situations. In this case, they are seeking comfort for their owner. If possible, minimize the citation and comfort the dog. Give them a calming area to relax when if a scary situation. There will also be other signs of illness, like lethargy, lack of appetite, or reduced interest. Take your dog to the vet ASAP if you suspect they are in pain or sick. Hungry German Shepherds are intelligent dogs and will let you know when dinner time has been skipped. We get busy too, so pay attention to the time to see if a meal was accidentally skipped. They are in a new environment, away from all they know and love, and it can be scary. Below are some tips on how to get past the crate-crying phase. This can help indicate if the whine is because of something terrible or less wrong, like boredom. Each German Shepherd has their own unique cry; this is just a reference point. Complaining whine This is not yet a cry. What to do if a German Shepherd puppy cries? Like a baby, they will cry for no apparent reason, and the older they get, the better it will get. If your puppy is safe, fed, and not ill, it is best to ignore it and not reinforce bad behavior. If you gave them constant attention with each whine, you could create a bad habit. What to do if a German Shepherd puppy cries in the crate at night? Crate training is hard, and it will result in your German Shepherd puppy crying at night. Below are a few tips to make the night easier, according to Wag. Make the crate a place your puppy wants to go: Add their favorite toys and blankets, give them treats, and make it a positive area. Place the crate where your German Shepherd is near you: it can be a calm and quiet area but make it accessible to the outside since the puppy will need potty breaks. Let them get used to the crate for a moment. When they wake up, grab them before the whining starts and take them potty, this will help make them less scared. Repeat and practice: Crate training takes time and can be challenging, especially at 3 am. Ensure that they are okay and rule out if a vet is needed. The most important thing is not to encourage the behavior. Can a German Shepherd puppy be trained to not cry? Yes you can work on your German Shepherd puppy not to cry. The easiest way to do this is to create an exercise and play routine to burn out energy and make them tired. German Shepherds love playing outside, and it can give them the stimulation they need to be happy. Crate training your puppy correctly will also train them not to cry in the crate. You are tired from being up at night and might lash out. Remember a few things not to do when the puppy cries. Punishment Punishment is the worst possible thing to do when your puppy cries. This can instill fear in your dog and make matters worse. We hate seeing our dogs upset and will do anything to help them. Instead, try to redirect the behavior. Allow them to go outside to play, chew on a toy, or relax in their crate until the whining subsides. What is normal crying vs abnormal crying? Puppies will cry for a lot of reasons. This is all normal for a puppy and how they communicate. If you notice your puppy is crying more and suddenly, what some would say is out of the blue, you might want to see why. Check for signs of illness or pain. Take a moment to reassure yourself that your dog is okay and allow them their moment to whine before redirecting them. Further Questions How do you stop a German Shepherd puppy from crying for its owner? The easiest thing is to set up a routine for them to play and exercise. Crate training is also a great option. Is it normal for a German Shepherd puppy to whine a lot? Yes, a German Shepherd puppy will often whine, just like a baby cries a lot. Should I ignore my puppy when it cries? No, the whining could indicate there is a problem. Always make sure they are okay, then redirect the dog. More posts on German Shepherd Puppies Recommended post. They do it to get the attention of their carers, the same way a human baby cries out for attention when they need something. Learned Crying Learned crying is the bad kind of crying. So what are the common reasons your german shepherd puppy may be crying at night? This is most common in new puppies. However, their parents are never going to arrive so they end up crying throughout the night. In the first few months of their life, their body is going to grow at an extraordinary rate. The extra energy is only going to cause them to make them more hyper, which could ultimately end up in barking or crying anyway. Do you know how much a german shepherd puppy should eat? They Need To Go To The Toilet Another extremely common reason behind a german shepherd puppy crying at night is that they need to go to the toilet. However, while holding it, they may end up whining and crying because of the discomfort. Just make sure you leave an area for them that they can use as a toilet. Fortunately, there are also lots of solutions! Your puppy should be taken out for 5 minutes for however many months old they are. For example, a 3-month-old puppy would be taken out for 15 minutes. Pre-emptively Let Them Outside If you think that your puppy is crying through the night because they need to go to the toilet, then you may want to pre-emptively let them out. This is good for two reasons. While you should never let a new puppy sleep in your bed, it is okay to let them sleep in your room. So, the first night, you could place their bed or crate down next to yours. The second and third night you can edge it closer to your door. And then every day you just have to keep moving the bed a little bit more. Find out why your german shepherd puppy is barking. Some great toys to use are Kongs and Nylabones. However, any toy or bone will do. Find out more about german shepherd teething and the best toys you can give a teething puppy. Putting all these things in their crate as well as covering it in a blanket is a great way to make them feel comfortable and safe. This will help them feel like a big animal is going to keep them safe through the night. Use An Adaptil Diffuser Some people have reported success using an Adaptil diffuser near their puppies crate. When you plug one in by your pup it releases the same pheromones as a nursing dog. And the best part is you can pick them up quite cheap off Amazon! Find out how to discipline a German Shepherd the right way! Just like there are lots of great things you can do to stop your german shepherd crying at night, there are also things you can do that are going to make problems worse. Here are the things you should definitely avoid doing unless you want to cause more behavioral problems in your german shepherd pup. While in the short term this will stop them crying at night, long term it can come with a whole bunch of behavioral problems that will need to be addressed. Instead of comforting make sure they have everything they need to comfort themselves such as toys and a place they can feel safe. However, remember, even this should be done gradually, and not massive changes all at once. You should never hit your dog, but also avoid using corrective collars as well. Remember, you never want to incite fear in your dog, but rather teach them through positive learning. The amount of time your puppy takes to be quiet in the night depends on the individual. Some of them are quick learners, while others take a little while to realize. Either way it can range from a day to a couple of weeks, however, both ends of the spectrum are extremely rare. Likewise in most cases, at some point in the night, your puppy will tire itself out and go to sleep instead of crying all night. However, there are times when your puppy will cry right through until the morning. Cheaper than replacing everything they might break. And definitely cheaper than a lawsuit against you, if they decide to bite someone. Just imagine how great it will feel to finally be able to take your pup for a walk without them barking at everyone. And the best part is it also has a day money-back guarantee! You can also check out a full review here , to learn exactly what the course has to offer! Recap When your German shepherd puppy is crying at night it often makes you want to go down and comfort them. It can take a day to a couple of weeks for your puppy to stop crying, however, the most common amount of time is 3 or 4 days. Brain Training For Dogs is the most effective way to teach your dog how to act appropriately, including how they should act at bedtime. If you have any more questions make sure you leave them in the comments below, otherwise, have a great day! Some other articles you might find interesting include what to do when your puppy is crying in their crate, how to deal with teething, and how to deal with chewing. Related Posts:. This is normal and natural. It is simply that your puppy is learning how to sleep alone for the first time. Rather, the goal is to ease the crying and the feeling of being alone for your puppy. If you can do this, the crate will no longer be an issue. Otherwise, you are just putting off the introduction of the crate. And you are likely to be listening to a crying puppy all night anyway because everything is so new. It might be tempting to just let your new GSD puppy sleep with you for the first night or few nights, or a week, or month…. Persisting with crate training can pay off if you know what to do. You are used to sleeping in a huddle with your littermates all snuggled together around your mom. Suddenly, your sleeping arrangements are changed. Mom is gone. Your littermates are nowhere to be found. In place of the comfy dog bed or blanket, or whelping bed there is a cold steel or plastic box. So the first order of business that is urgent is to get your new GSD puppy comfy in their new crate! Here are seven expert tips to make the crate look and feel and smell homey and safe for your puppy: 1. Cover the crate partially for naps and bedtime but not so much that there is no ventilation. Aim for protecting your puppy from drafts and light but still allowing for sufficient airflow. Add in a comfortable puppy blanket so your dog can snuggle up in it. Ease Into Extended Crate Time With Short Training Sessions When you first bring your German Shepherd puppy home, it may be late in the day and you may not have time for a bunch of crate sessions right away. This means you may have to deal with some whining and crying the first night. It can help to place the crate in your bedroom if possible. This way your dog can at least see and smell you. And if your new GSD puppy needs to potty, which they likely will, you can take care of it right away. But starting the following morning, you should begin proper crate training for your German Shepherd puppy right away. And you should establish reasonable expectations for the outcome. As PetMD points out, even the best crate training in the world may not completely stop your puppy from whining, crying, or barking. This is because you have chosen an intensely people-oriented dog breed! All dogs are oriented towards people to some degree, but the German Shepherd dog breed is particularly people-focused. Your puppy just wants to be with you. You want to start with very short and sweet sessions just to get your German Shepherd puppy used to being in the crate. Start with just 10 or 15 minutes at a time at timed intervals throughout the day. As you do this, make sure the crate is in a quiet place, but not a place that is far away from you and your family. The more easily your puppy can sense your presence, the less likely they are to get very lonely and start crying loudly. A Sample German Shepherd Puppy Crate Training Schedule As you learned earlier here, crate training under the best of conditions can be stressful for a puppy. This is especially important while your puppy is also going through potty training! Noon: Lunch! What should you do if this happens? While some amount of crate whining and crying is normal when a new puppy is first getting used to the crate, sometimes crying and whining can have other meanings as well. It is always smart to have your new GSD puppy checked out by your veterinarian right away anyway — ideally in the first 24 to 48 hours. But if your puppy keeps whining and crying, there may be another reason. Your dog might be sick or injured and need treatment. It is much better to talk with your veterinarian and know for sure than to worry and wonder and get no sleep at night. Sometimes puppies may develop separation anxiety and get very frantic about trying to get out of their crate. When this happens, self-injury becomes possible. It may be helpful to ask your veterinarian for a referral to a dog trainer so you can address the separation anxiety before it leads to self-harm or an ingrained behavior pattern. By understanding the most common reasons your German Shepherd puppy might cry in their crate and what to do to ease loneliness and fears, your new puppy will soon settle into your family. If you looking to buy a new crate for your dog, here is a list of our recommendations. Recommended reading:.

One of their signature traits is a black mask on the face. Their ears are triangular, flat, and lay close to the head. German Shepherds, on the other hand, have ears that point up to the sky. While not as fluffy as a Leo, GSDs also have a double coat that needs regular grooming. When imagining the German Shepherd, most of us will see a black and tan dog. However, GSDs actually come in 11 different colors. Based on these two breeds, we know that a Leonberger cross German Shepherd will have a double coat. However, color, ear shape, and fluffiness are all up to chance. If the coat takes after the Leo parent, more frequent brushing may be necessary. Teeth should be brushed often and nails trimmed as needed. Leonberger x German Shepherd Temperament and Behavior Leonbergers are often considered gentle giants. They are friendly, patient companions who are eager to please. This also means they are good with kids. However, being spirited and energetic, a Leonberger German Shepherd could easily knock children over when excited. Leonbergers often make good watchdogs, as they will alert you to anything they deem suspicious. However, German Shepherds can sometimes be overprotective. Though loyal and companionable with their family, GSDs may be aloof or even nervous with strangers. Some studies have found German Shepherds to be more aggressive than other dogs. Along with this, they were one of the highest offenders of dog bites in children. A small breed dog may bite more often than a GSD, but those bites are rarely reported. Not all GSDs are aggressive. A bored dog is too often a destructive dog. Playing fetch is great exercise. While some dogs naturally love the game, others can be taught to enjoy it. Both physical and mental enrichment are important for this mixed breed. Mental enrichment can be achieved through training. Because GSDs tend to bond more closely with those who train them. Training during puppyhood should be taken seriously, as a fully grown Leonberger German Shepherd mix is a strong dog. With positive reinforcement, a puppy can grow into a gentle, well-mannered adult. Socialization is also vital. Proper socialization can greatly reduce the likelihood of fearful and aggressive behaviors. Considering reports of aggression in GSDs, a socialization routine with all different types of stimuli is a must. You should start socializing your puppy right away, as the most crucial period for socialization is between 5 and 12 weeks. Both of these dogs can be friendly but personalities differ, so you never know. The German Shepherd is known for being intelligent, curious, and alert. All dogs need proper socialization and that will be a big factor in how they interact with others. What does this mixed breed look and act like? Is it more like the German Shepherd Dog or the Leonberger? Those are the questions we will try and answer below. Continue reading below to see pictures, videos, and learn more about the beautiful German Shepherd Dog Leonberger Mix. While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue, we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their German Shepherd Dog Leonberger Mix puppy. If you are interested in helping animal rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer donates to help feed shelter animals. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. If you have a few minutes, please sign our petition to stop puppy mills. Von Stephanitz had in his mind what a good working dog should be and a few generations of breeding fulfilled what Hektor envisioned. Horand von Grafrath is known to be the first German Shepherd Dog. Horand von Grafrath was bred to other similar styled dogs that were believed to have the same traits as what Von Stephanitz was looking for. His most successful offspring was Hektor von Schwaben. Von Stephanitz is widely credited for being the founder of this incredible breed. Von Stephanitz had intended for his breed to work as herding dogs, however, as Germany became more and more industrialized he saw the need to make it working dog. He convinced the German government to use the breed. The breed initially became popular in World War 1. Many American and allied servicemen grew attached to the breed during the war and brought them back to the states after the war was over. The Allied troops fell in love with the breed but not with the fact that it had German roots. It became common for police departments and those looking for true working dogs to import their dogs from Germany because the American dogs had such bad health problems. Leonbergers are loving, loyal and dedicated companions, but due to their size not everyone wants to take home a pound plus pet. For those that do, they will enjoy a rambunctious puppy until they are a harder working adults who loves to spend time with each member of the family. Leonbergers are not aggressive animals and are proud, strong and powerful. Originally the Leonberger were kept as farm dogs. They pulled carts and did other tasks as needed. In the 20th Century, they became water rescue dogs, and they still continue to live in that role today. In the s a dog breeder named Heinrich Essig claims to have created the Leonberger by crossing a male dog that would later create the Saint Bernard breed along with a female Landseer Newfoundland. Later down the line, Essig claims to have added a Pyrenean Mountain dog to the mix, which created the large dog with long white coats. This may just be a story since the claim is still disputed. The reason for this is due to a description that claims animals the looked like Leonbergers were owned by Austrian Prince Franz Metternich, of Wolfberg in .The more modern look of a Leonberger, which includes darker coats and black masks, came later in the 20th century. This happened when other breeds, such as the Newfoundland, were reintroduced to the genetic pool. The reintroduction was due to the loss of Leonbergers during World War I, and even though the breed started to thrive again, it was lost once more during World War II. Leonbergers were used to pull ammunition carts during these wars.

PetMD is operated by Chewy. Bringing home a new four-legged family member is such an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming—especially for your new puppy. When dogs are nervous, they tend to seek out small spaces to create a protective shelter for themselves. Crates are a great way to provide that safe haven for them. There are several things you can do to make the crate a safe space for your pup: Feeding meals or treats inside the crate is often seen as a reward and creates a positive association for dogs. Keeping dog toys in the crate can also provide a similar reward and positive association for pets. Adding a dog bed or blankets to the crate can make it even more comfortable although some dogs do prefer to lie on hard surfaces. This gives him enough time to digest his food and go to the bathroom one last time before bedtime so hopefully! While there are no hard and fast rules on timing, having playtime in the hours leading up to bedtime can be very helpful. The hour leading up to bedtime should be used to allow your puppy to gradually calm down, which will help him with the transition to bedtime. This gives him from p. Some great stimulating activities for puppies include: Training: Dogs love to be trained, and it provides a lot of benefits for them. Training is mentally stimulating and can be as exhausting as physical exercise. It can also help keep them safe, and the more rules dogs know, the more comfortable they tend to feel in a home. Long walks: Walks not only provide dogs with physical exercise, but all the smells are mentally stimulating for them, too. Just be sure your puppy is fully vaccinated before going for long walks in public places! Playing games: Puppies love to play games like tug of war, hide and seek, scent games, and play with puzzle toys. This should be a short outing, just long enough for him to go to the bathroom. If timed well with dinner, he will hopefully both urinate and defecate during this potty break. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to help your new puppy feel more comfortable in his new home: Putting the crate in your room can help your puppy feel closer to you, while also providing him with the safe space of the crate. Typically, anxiety and stress crying occurs early in the night when your puppy is first put into his crate. If he starts crying in the middle of the night, he might need to go to the bathroom. Bringing home a new puppy is a major lifestyle change for both of you. But once the first few nights are through and your bond grows, puppies can be some of the best companions—and their love is worth all the sleepless nights. Featured Image: iStock. Brittany Grenus graduated from Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine in with her doctorate in veterinary medicine and a.Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? First day and night with puppy First day with a new puppy Your first day and night with a new puppy Getting a puppy is a really huge step for anyone and if it's your first puppy it's important to know what to expect. We've put together our tips and advice on the first 24 hours with your four-legged friend. A new member of the family is a big commitment but also really exciting. If you're a first-time puppy owner, you might have heard stories good and bad about owning a puppy. Your first day and night together will help to set the tone for your time together, so it's really important to be prepared. Our vets have put together their advice on dealing with your first day with a new puppy. Be prepared before bringing your puppy home Before you even bring your puppy home, there's a lot you can do to prepare! Remember to make sure to get all the supplies you need first - our new puppy checklist can help you decide what to get. This will be an area they can go and take naps in, chill out in when they want a bit of alone time and generally feel safe in. If you do decide to get your puppy a crate, remember they might not be used to one so you will need to take your time introducing them to it to make sure they are comfortable and happy with it. Take a look at our guide on crate training for more advice. Growing is thirsty work, after all! Ideally you want this near to their quiet area and bed. Set some ground rules Before your puppy comes home, you have some decisions to make. Will they be allowed on the sofa? Are they allowed on the bed? You need to set some rules and make sure everyone at home knows what they are — and sticks to them! Consistency is key when training any dog and your puppy will be learning all the time. Puppies will need to go to the toilet regularly, so giving them the opportunity straight away will help before they go inside. Remember to give them lots of praise or even a treat when they go to the toilet in the right place — for more information, visit our toilet training guide. When you take your puppy inside for the first time, try to take them to their space first. Too much too soon can get them over-excited or stressed, so slow introductions to new things is key. Make sure you keep your home and everyone in it! The breeder or rehoming centre can let you know when, what and how much your puppy normally eats. Offer lots of toilet time. Give your puppy the chance to go out to the toilet regularly and give them lots of praise when they go in the right place! Playtime can be OK. Short playtime sessions are absolutely fine, but remember that your pup will tire out quickly so keep them short and sweet. Naps are important. Puppies are still growing, which is tiring! Avoid walks. Your puppy is unlikely to be fully vaccinated when you first get them. Stick to supervised playtime in a secure garden, keeping them away from water sources and thick undergrowth where rats could have been. Spend lots of time together. Your puppy is always learning, so make sure you spend lots of time with them so they know they can be happy and safe around you. Pets love routine, so get your puppy into a regular routine as soon as possible! Decide where they are sleeping. Whether you plan on your puppy forever sleeping in your bedroom, or want them in a separate room, you need to start this from the beginning and stick to it. If you have your puppy in your bedroom but plan to move them into a different room at a later date, this can be really distressing for them. Keep calm. Keep bedtime as calm as possible for your pup. Give them gentle praise such as a few strokes when they settle where you want them to. Sleep in the same room for the first few nights. For the first few nights, your puppy will need time to adjust to being without their mum. Remind them of mum. Pop this where they sleep every night as it will help to comfort them and keep them calm. Night time toilet breaks may be needed. Puppies have little bodies and little bladders! For the first few weeks you might find they need a toilet break during the night. If your puppy is worried during the night, they might cry or bark. This is completely normal as they adjust to a new home and environment. When your puppy is scared, comforting them will help, but being ignored will make them feel isolated and even more frightened. Got a question? The puppy should be allowed to explore and meet his new family. You should now start teaching your puppy his name amazing because now Stetson knows his name like the back of his paw. Try again in 10 minutes. If the puppy does relieve himself in the proper area, give him lots of praise. Afterward, you may take him inside, but remember to supervise the puppy; do not let him out of your sight. Talk to your puppy when it explores to make him feel more at home. The first few nights at home may be difficult for both you and your pup. At night the puppy will feel lonely and will probably demonstrate this by whining Oh, you betcha! These are a few things that you can do that might make the puppy feel at home. We use a MidWest Life Stages Double Door Crate which comes with a divider this allows us to adjust the crate size and put a blanket over it to make it seem cozier. Keep the crate in a draft-free area next to your bed. For approximately the first three weeks, if your puppy cries, take him out, on a leash to relieving area. After relieving put him back into his crate. Do not give him any treats or any playtime. Put him right back into his crate and he should go back to sleep. Under no circumstances take the puppy to bed with you. This will form a very undesirable habit. Give the puppy a stuffed dog toy to snuggle with. Then when it was time to crate Stetson for the first night he could snuggle with the toy and smell the scent of his littermates. Our favorite and one we highly recommend is the Calmeroos Puppy Toy with heartbeat and heat pack. Our last puppy, Anna loved her Calmeroos Puppy Toy and it helped her sleep better her first night in her crate. Hold your puppy by his collar by slipping your thumb in his collar and set his food about two feet away. This should be done at every meal throughout training. Even within a breed. There are several people in our group who have raised 10 or more Labrador Retrievers in the Guide Dogs of America program and each one is different. My experience with Stetson was very difficult in the early days and weeks. I had no problem with Stetson when I first got him home. I already knew about the trials and tribulations of house training and crate training after raising my first rescue puppy, Linus. Puppies tend to piddle about every 10 to 20 minutes. You have to watch them like a hawk or they will end up using your house as their personal restroom. Stetson had some accidents here and there, but nothing out of the ordinary. The agony came in the evening. Stetson did NOT take to the crate! He whined, howled, cried, and barked…probably made every noise he could possibly produce, but would not relax and go to sleep. He did sleep once in a while honestly I felt like a zombie for over a month. During those first 4 weeks, the most sleep I got was approximately 6 hours, broken up 3 or 4 times a night by whining, howling, barking…you get the picture. I was a wreck and I thought Stetson would never get used to his crate. Awww, the first night home with puppy Stetson was…sleepless… I have two words for you — consistent and patient. After about 4 weeks of consistently sticking to my guns, not letting him out of his crate, and praising him when he was quiet Stetson suddenly stopped making noise in his crate. In the long run, it pays off. Stetson has not barked, howled, or whined in months. New puppy owners often ask me where should a puppy sleep on the first night? Starting on day one we want our puppies to get used to sleeping in their crate. If we allow them to sleep elsewhere like our beds then we are reinforcing the behavior of sleeping on the bed. Therefore, trying to start them in the crate will be more difficult on day 2. Also, I want them to get used to sleeping in their crate until they are potty trained and learn the appropriate rules in our house i. Most likely he will wake up crying times at night. What happens when your puppy starts crying? Should you let your puppy cry the first night? That question is more complicated than it seems. First, as mentioned earlier we crate train our puppies. If at the end of the night our puppies start crying in the crate they will most likely settle down after about minutes of whining. Therefore, yes we let our puppies cry. Second, if our puppy wakes up in the middle of the night and starts crying we take him immediately to his potty spot. After he goes potty we take him straight back to his crate to go back to sleep. This generally happens times a night. Those are the two most likely crying scenarios with your puppy. However, there are an infinite number of other possibilities for puppies crying in the crate on the first night. Should you leave your puppy alone on the first night? I sleep about a foot away from my puppy in my own bed, puppy in his crate. If I feel like my puppy is experiencing some anxiety on his first nights home I will also sometimes sleep on the floor for a few nights and slowly start to migrate back to my bed. This is the question I fear when I bring home a puppy. The answer is it depends, every puppy is different. However, you probably want to know what I consider normal for how long a puppy will cry at night? At which point he will likely settle down and go to sleep. Over the next 8 hours, most puppies will wake up times and will need to go outside and potty. When you get back from the potty break most puppies will cry for another minutes before they go back to sleep. After about 8 hours of sleep, your puppy will want to wake up and eat breakfast. As I mentioned earlier, all of my puppies sleep in their crate on the first night. This calls for a story: Many years ago, I talked to a friend who allowed her puppy to sleep in her bed. She cleaned up the mess but could still smell poop. Check out our New Puppy Checklist. Get a good book on raising and training a puppy like Puppies for Dummies. Let him get comfortable in his new environment. Start training your puppy immediately with basics like potty training, name, and crate. Always supervise your puppy. Use a small crate near your bed. Give your puppy a stuffed dog toy to snuggle with. Be consistent, persistent, and patient when training your puppy. The first night with a puppy is often a sleepless night. On the other hand, if you get a homesick puppy then you might have to endure a night possibly several nights of barking, howling, crying, and yelping puppy. Hopefully, you get the latter and are only disturbed a few times in your nightly slumber. Good luck! Tell us your experiences in the comment section below. Related Article. They are merely small, cute, and compact dogs. When you first get your Pug puppy, they may cry and whine at night…. Are you wondering why your Pug puppies keep on crying and whining at night? Have you ever found yourself trying to sleep with the crying Pug puppy at night? Then this article is for you. Why is Your Pug Puppy Crying? Hearing your Pug puppy whine or cry at night is enough to break your heart. They need to get used to their new surroundings. Pug puppies cry and whine as a natural alarm system to call out for help. Puppies removed earlier from their Mom and litter may have separation anxiety issues. This can result in crying at night. If your breeder wants to keep your puppy for 12 weeks before you pick her up, please wait. Please wait. The breeder knows those extra few weeks is what is best for the pup. That time can reduce behavioral and mental health in the future. Even if you bring your Pug puppy home after eight weeks, she will still miss her Pug Mom and littermates. Pug puppies will cry and whine when they feel this way. When you first bring your Pug puppy home, try to take some time off from work. Spend a lot of time with him during the day to try to ward off loneliness. Also, a tired Pug puppy may sleep better at night. Your Pup is Scared They may feel scared, and it may take a while to settle into their new environment. Put your puppy in a crate next to your bed. Pug puppies cry and whine when scared. Having them next to your bed may help. Loud wind, noises, or the sound of rain may also scare your puppy. Some suggest putting a windup clock under their pillow to hear the ticking. That may give your puppy some comfort. Once in their bed, they may realize they need to go. Also, Pug puppies have tiny bladders. My little Lulu did until she was about eight months old. Once her body started to develop, she no longer needed to go out in the middle of the night. Most of the time, puppies will not pee where they sleep. Although Pug puppies cry and whine to get out in the middle of the night, it helps with potty training. Most Pugs would love a delicious snack day or night. Giving them a snack may only train them to cry more. If whining and crying once brought them a snack, why not try it again and again? Be sure your Pug puppy has a water bowl out all during the day. Encourage a small drink before bed, but they may refuse. The place might be uncomfortable, too hot, too cold, or too bright for him. Make sure your puppy is in a dark room around 70 degrees. Be sure he has a nice comfortable blanket or pillow to sleep on. You may decide to let him sleep with you once he is potty-trained. When my Mimi was almost potty-trained, I used to think she would be OK to sleep in the bed with me. Unfortunately, I spent some mornings washing sheets. Finally, I went back to putting her into her crate until she was fully potty-trained. Given a choice between peeing outside on the ground in the cold weather or in a toasty room with soft blankets, well… you know how that went. Your Pug Puppy gets Bored at Night Pug puppies need enough exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and relaxed. When they do not get enough exercise, they show a lot of extra energy at night. Pug puppies cry and whine out of boredom and maybe part of its way of burning energy. During the day, spend a lot of time with your pup and give him a lot of attention. Play catch and give him a lot of verbal praise. Should you Ignore a Whining Pug Pup? Little pups think that if they call for help, someone will quickly locate them. Try to understand the underlying cause of your Pug puppy crying and whining. Your Pug puppy is maybe in a stage where he learns how to communicate his needs and wants. Pug puppies generally whine to get attention and food from their parents. Avoid unintentionally encouraging your dog to whine. Encouraging whining lead to a pup that whines excessively. Even reaching down to pet your Pug or speaking soothing words can be an encouragement to whine more. Try to keep them in the room with you at night. Are you worried about your whining Pug pup? The good news is that you can train your puppy to whine less. If your Pug puppy is crying at night, there are many ways to calm him. The goal is to have a relaxed, self-assured puppy and can be left alone for the night. You can try to keep them in a crate. Even though your puppy might resist this idea in the beginning, but dog crates can be lifesavers. A crate offers your puppy a sense of safety and security. The ideal food for your Pug is the one that ensures all the nutrients your dog needs for growth and development. If you get a Pug puppy, be certain you are feeding puppy food. They have different nutritional needs than adult dogs do. Also, ask your breeder what she is feeding the pups. Then transition your puppy from her dog food to the one that you would like him to eat. Tailor the puppy food to meet their needs. Avoid saying emotional goodbyes and try to have a low-key departure and arrival. Puppies can be emotional sponges and soak up everything you are feeling. Long, emotional goodnights or goodbyes can create anxiety for your pup. A Pug puppy with pent up physical or emotional energy is more likely to cry and whine. You must make sure to take care of the following things before you leave your puppy at night: Feed your puppy before you leave. Pugs are greedy eaters and become satisfied when they are full. Provide sufficient exercise and social interaction. This will reduce their destructive behavior. Give your pup chew toys and other interactive toys like puzzles and kongs while you are away at night. This will distract them and keep them busy while they are alone. Keep dangerous things out of the reach of your Pug puppy. The daily workout will potentially help him get rid of the excess energy that he has. Spend time playing brain games and doing obedience training with them. Eventually, without your interaction, he will fall asleep. Establish a Positive Reinforcement Protocol Rewards like treats, playtime, and chew toys are the motivators for your Pug puppy. During the day, you can reward your Pug for not crying and showing some independence. Never punish your Pug puppy for whining or crying as this may make a fearful or anxious pup become even more so. Punishments, yelling, and harsh behavior can lead to aggressive behavior. Talk to a good trainer about this and how to deal with separation anxiety. It will save them from crying and whining. Again, puppies taken from their Pug Mom too early may have difficulty being able to self-soothe. Follow these simple steps to teach your Pug to stay alone for longer periods of time: Have your Pug stay in a small, confined area with a chew toy. Then quietly leave the room. If quiet, return immediately. Praise your Pug and perhaps give them a treat. Repeat and slowly increase the time you are away each time. If you get your Pug to a point where he is happy being left for an hour, he should be fine at night. Here are some ideas for a calming bedtime routine: Give them a Treat Give your puppy a tasty treat at bedtime. It will provide him with something special to look forward to. They will associate sleep time with a yummy snack. Give them a Good Place to Sleep You must provide a cozy and comfortable place for their sleeping. Make it cozy, so they feel secure and cry and whine less. Give them favorite toys Pug pups can also develop an association with a special toy. Give them safe toys to feel at home. When I brought Lulu home, she loved this fried egg toy the breeder gave her. The toy had been with her and her littermates, and she played with it a long time. Help them Calm with a Dog Aromatherapy Some scents can have a calming effect on your little tail-wagging pals. Spend a little calm time with your Pug dog before going to bed. It will take time to completely rid your Pug puppy of the habit of crying and whining. The important thing is to cope with it until he feels safe and does not whine anymore. Also, do not encourage it by responding to him in any way: positive or negative. Remember, when you bring home a Pug puppy, you are committing to a long-term relationship. You will eventually be able to stop your Pug puppy from crying at night. Be patient and determined to make it work. All dogs are social creatures and love companionship. Pugs are even more social than most breeds. They have been bred to be part of your family. It is important to dedicate quality time to your little furry buddy and ensure that their needs are met. Meeting his needs will help them to become well-rounded and socially healthy dogs. Before you know it, your puppy will be potty-trained and in the bed with you like the majority of Pug owners do. Post navigation.

Saint Berdoodle Highlights Saint Berdoodles are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Saint Bernard or Poodle parents. Two common color combinations of Saint Berdoodles are white-and-brown and white-and-black. They can also be red with white accents or white with red accents. The coats of Saint Berdoodles can take after either parent—wiry and curly for the Poodle, or longer and smooth or rough for the Saint Bernard. Saint Berdoodles are generally pretty well-equipped for cold weather, especially if their coats are similar to Saint Bernards. Saint Berdoodles are great with people of all ages, including kids. The only concern with these dogs is their size with very young children. Be sure to supervise interactions with very young children in case of accidental stepping or sitting. These dogs do not enjoy being alone, so they would love the company of other pets and family members. Saint Berdoodle History Historical records show Poodles being bred in the s and Saint Bernards being bred in the s, both in Europe. Saint Berdoodle breeding is a little more vague, but it looks like they were bred intentionally in the US beginning in the s. The rationale to combine the protectiveness and rescue nature of the Saint Bernard with the intelligence and trainability of the Poodle for a family dog was strong. Between and alone, Saint Bernards rescued over 2, people. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up Saint Berdoodle rescues, or check with breed-specific Saint Bernard or Poodle rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Saint Berdoodle Size Though there is quite a range of sizes for Saint Berdoodles, you can expect a larger dog, in general. Saint Bernards are always large, and Standard Poodles are medium-to-large. In terms of height, the range is typically between 15 and 30 inches. There have been attempts at creating a Miniature Saint Berdoodle, with a weight between 20 and 50 pounds, and a height between 14 and 18 inches, but miniaturizing a Saint Bernard usually involves breeding with a smaller dog, too—most commonly the Cocker Spaniel. You can expect your Saint Berdoodle to be friendly and affectionate, always wanting to be part of family activities. The only reason you may need to supervise interactions with Saint Berdoodles and very small children is just that these dogs are often quite large, so accidents may happen with sitting or stepping. Saint Berdoodle Health Saint Berdoodles are fairly healthy dogs. While mixing breeds can be a way to minimize genetic disorders, the resulting crossbreed can still inherit health problems from the parent breeds. Regular care and annual veterinary check-ups are a good way to keep your dog in prime health. Some of the more common health problems for Saint Berdoodles include: hip dysplasia. People love the hypoallergenic coats of Saint Berdoodles, which are usually low-shedding or non-shedding. Saint Berdoodles have wonderful temperaments and are usually great with kids. Saint Berdoodles have hybrid vigor, which results from crossing two purebred dogs. Hybrid vigor typically results in a healthier offspring, and Saint Berdoodles have a much longer life expectancy than a purebred Saint Bernard. Purebred St Bernards usually live years; whereas Saint Berdoodles are usually expected to live years. Anyone who has owned and loved a Saint Bernard might wonder why anyone would get a Saint Berdoodle instead. There's a seven-fold answer for why Saint Berdoodles win the battle for many families. St Bernard vs St Berdoodle Hypoallergenic: St Berdoodles usually have low-to-non shedding coats like poodles and are typically far better for people with allergies than a purebred Saint Bernard, which sheds its coat. Health: Hybrid vigor typically improves a dog's health. There's a reason that humans don't marry our relatives. Saint Berdoodles tend to have fewer health issues than a pure Saint Bernard. Intelligence: Poodles consistently rank as one of the top if not THE top breeds for intelligence. Saint Berdoodles are very quick learners. Trainability: Usually the St Berdoodle's increased intelligence makes them an easy dog to train. Saint Berdoodles love pleasing their owner. Walking Partner: Although Saint Berdoodles are one of the lowest energy doodles, they tend to be more active than a somewhat lethargic purebred Saint Bernard who usually prefers to lounge all day. Although a Saint Berdoodle will not be an active runner like a Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, Aussiedoodle, or Springerdoodle, you can usually take a Saint Berdoodle for a long walk--more so than a purebred Saint Bernard. Nathan Crockett was one of the first breeders to raise top quality Saint Berdoodles. We have people from all over the U. Saint Berdoodle Pricing. Life Span Did You Know? Although a mixed-breed dog can take on any combination of traits from one or both of their parent breeds, well-socialized Saint Berdoodles tend to be affectionate and loving dogs with sweet natures and social personalities. This designer dog breed may not be recognized by the American Kennel Club, but they are still recognized by other notable dog organizations. The Saint Berdoodle is a gentle giant that makes a great addition to any family. Well-socialized, they tend to be social and friendly with charming, cheerful personalities. They also tend to be affectionate, loving, and highly intelligent dogs. These dogs can be good watchdogs as they are initially wary of strangers and will alert you when someone is on the property. Although Saint Berdoodles do tend to have a protective instinct over their family and territory, they tend to be quite social and friendly and do not tend to be aggressive provided they have been properly socialized and trained. Saint Berdoodles are moderately adaptable dogs. Due to their sheer size, they are better suited to larger homes with yards where they can run and roam freely. They could potentially adapt to apartment living if they are given enough exercise, attention, and mental stimulation, but their size will definitely be a challenge in smaller spaces. This dog adapts well to most moderate climates. As a large, fluffy dog, they are also sensitive to heat and can easily overheat. Because a Saint Berdoodle craves attention, bonds closely with their family, and loves being with them, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. A crossbred dog can inherit the potential health concerns common to one, both, or neither of the parent breeds. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of Saint Berdoodle puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to ensure that they are not passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask the breeder about the genetic history of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large dog, the Saint Berdoodle is also at a higher risk of bloat just like both parent breeds. Bloat in dogs can become dangerous quickly and is fatal if the stomach flips. Although the Saint Berdoodle will grow to be a giant dog, they tend to be gentle and highly trainable. Their high intelligence and eagerness to please means they pick up on things quickly and are relatively easy to train. This makes them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. They respond best to positive training methods that are calm and consistent and focused on reward and praise. Puppy training classes are always an option and can be a good opportunity to socialize a puppy, which is even more important in a dog this size. The maintenance your Saint Berdoodle requires will depend completely on the coat they inherit. But, they will require daily brushing and professional grooming every weeks. Once or twice monthly nail trimming is usually enough to keep them from growing too long and causing issues. You can also support your efforts to prevent dental diseases later in life with dental hygiene chews and treats approved by your vet. Saint Berdoodles tend to have a moderate energy level. They will be energetic while playing and require some exercise, but they will be happy to be a couch potato every now and then. Daily walks plus some time to play are usually enough for this big dog. They may not be a good fit for a running partner, but your Saint Berdoodle may enjoy going on hikes with you, taking trips to the dog park, or even going swimming. Just make sure you keep activities low impact until their bones and joints finish growing and developing. A fully-grown Saint Berdoodle usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. They are one of the largest dog breeds. Saint Berdoodles generally live for years on average. This designer dog breed is most commonly known as a Saint Berdoodle, but they are also sometimes called a Saint Berpoo. Featured Saint Berdoodle Article.