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About Us Welcome! Hello, we're Jeremy and Kara Jewkes. We have completely fallen in love with Golden Retrievers and we want to share the love that they offer. This breed of dog is an incredible companion and a best friend. As we have seen our family benefit from these furry friends, we have decided to share their love with others! Golden Retrievers are ranked in the top three for family dogs for a reason. Regardless of what your lifestyle is, there is a perfect matched Golden Retriever companion out there for you. Let us help you find yours! I am an American Golden Retriever with golden tri-coloring. My dad is an English Cream and my mom is an American Gold. I come from champion bloodlines that are clean and healthy. I am 55 lbs and 24" high! I am very affectionate, adoring and love to please. If you love what ya see, come meet me! I'm an English Cream Golden Retriever with champion bloodlines that are clear and healthy! I'm 75 lbs of muscle and 28" high! I am athletic, adventurous and loving. Meet me Apollo Hi, I'm Apollo! I'm the newest addition to the pack. I am a purebred American Golden Retriever. I weigh 75 lbs of handsome and 29" high. Tall, dark and handsome. I fit right in and am excited to be here. I can't wait to see what I can do and learn. If you think I'm handsome, come meet me! I"m an upcoming mama and am learning all I can from Bonnie and Jude. Wanna know more? Come meet me! Meet me Tex Hi! I'm Tex and I'm new here! I"m gonna be the man around here but right now, I'm just learning and playing as I go. Meet me Scout Hi! I'm Scout and I'm new here! We choose the best possible pairs for breeding. Before we breed any dogs, we ensure the health of both the male and the female dog. We want to share the love of the English Golden Retriever breed, but our top priority is the health, wellness, and safety of the parents. We appreciate your understanding and we know that you want a healthy, happy puppy. In order to achieve this, we take excellent care of our dogs and as soon as we are sure that both soon-to-be parents are healthy, happy, and ready to become a mom and dad, we will resume normal schedule. We know as pet lovers you will understand. The sight of an English Golden Retriever is one of awe and beauty that cannot be compared to any other breed. It is mesmerizing, to say the very least. Their health, happiness, and livelihood are our top priorities. We love our dogs and every puppy holds a special place in our hearts. We will only accept the very best families into our Red Fern family because that's what our Golden Retriever puppies deserve. We have been raising kids and dogs for over 20 years. Our primary goal is to responsibly breed, raise and train English Golden Retrievers that excel in the companion animal world. With methods inspired by many professional trainers, we can insure you have a puppy that continues to learn and grow with your family. With the imported champion bloodlines of the Allred family, this merge is a force to reckon with! We love the temperament and trainability of this beautiful breed and are excited to climb upward in our journey to excellence. Want to Chat? You can contact me through email at redferncompanion gmail. Photo Gallery. These amazing creatures have played a vital role in the development of our civilizations and continue to make a huge impact on our daily lives. In the past, dogs were considered essential companions for daily existence for people from all walks of life such as farmers, hunters, and merchants. Today, the importance of a companion dog is finding new meaning as many people are finding immense comfort in the presence of their pets which allows them to feel empowered to take back control of their lives. What is a Companion Dog? Also called emotional support dogs, companion dogs function as constant partners in the daily lives of those who find themselves suffering from anxiety or emotional distress on their own. Companion dogs can help anxiety sufferers gain a sense of freedom and independence which allows them to take on their daily lives with a sense of security and wellbeing. With the presence of a companion dog, many owners feel calmed in situations that might otherwise paralyze them with anxiety or depression. Golden Retrievers, best companion dogs The support provided by a companion dog can be as simple as a reassuring presence offered by a loving animal. Many owners of companion dogs feel stronger in the company of their animals and are emboldened to take on tasks that might otherwise be too daunting to do on their own. Who Needs Companion Dogs? Companion dogs are especially useful for anxiety and depression sufferers who feel a sense of comfort from the presence of their animal. Oftentimes, companion dogs are recommended or prescribed by doctors for their patients who suffer from anxiety disorders and have difficulties getting through their daily lives due to them. Companion dogs can help improve the quality of life of their owners by giving them back a sense of independence and some freedom from their disorder. If you suffer from emotional difficulties or anxiety disorders and you are a dog lover, you should speak with your doctor about the possibility of a companion dog to see if they think it would be the right fit for you. This responsibility can be an important aspect to owning a companion dog as it gives the person who suffers from emotional disorders something to focus on other than themselves. Golden Retrievers Make Great Companions Golden retrievers are gentle, friendly, furry friends who respond well to training and are responsive to human emotional needs, making them one of the most common therapy dog breeds. They prefer healthy lifestyles and enjoy running, hiking, and swimming. They can be pretty mellow indoors if they get enough outdoor exercise. They enjoy being with other people and are known for their patience. Is your loved one looking for the perfect dog match? Would you like to have someone help them in their daily lives and guide them with their canine companion? Goldens are known as one of the friendliest and even-tempered dog breeds. For us, Goldens is a way of life. Our Goldens are raised in a fun-loving family environment, with beautiful, safe surroundings in the mountains of Colorado.

They are bouncy, tail wagging, cuddle bugs, the cutest things ever! Uncle Al lives in our "apartment", the walkout basement downstairs. We help Uncle Al with his Pugs. They are wonderful caring moms! When our moms retire we have them spayed and offer them to pet only homes for about half the cost of a puppy. They will be on the retired parent page at that time. Diva will be available this late winter or spring .See the other pages: "About our puppies," "what comes with your puppy", and " is a puppy really right for you. Or maybe adopt a rescued adult Pug. Rescue is always the best! Do your homework, since a rescued dog needs a home appropriate for their needs as much as a puppy! A puppy is a very serious decision. Please do not get a puppy or a dog if you have any hesitation about long term responsibility of a furry best friend. We love our puppies and dogs and only want them in a home where they will be a part of the family! If interested in a puppy please email or call. Remainder due on pick up. Pugs are heat and cold sensitive. Not at all a 'hiking in all weather' type of dog. Some are amazingly agile, fast, and athletic and do tolerate a wider range of temperature. Others are at risk of collapsing if overheated when simply out on a warm day and playing. Many make terrific therapy dogs. They are very tolerant of children. Puppies available now! All puppies are kept current on vaccinations, dewormed several times, microchipped, and well socialized. Puppies are microchipped and current on vaccinations. Nikki black and Boris fawn had puppies 1 white female available, updated .Photos taken , at 4. They have grown so much but look the same, update, they are 14 week old. Website: snugglepugs. They make sure that when they post about pug puppies in Michigan, the perfect puppy is ready to be released to their new owners. This means that they make sure the puppies are in good health, had their first shots, and are vet checked. They cater and serve to all locations in the vicinity of Michigan, Check them out for pug puppies for sale. Here is their contact information: Marshall, MI Email: sfjmercado yahoo. Breeders have a major responsibility to build from the healthiest dogs on their family pedigree. They should focus on the breeding quality not on quantity if they wish to be in business for a long time. They have to take into account the various health problems and genetic medical condition traits to ensure that the puppy lives a long life. Always do your diligent research on breeders and find those who value pet parents and dog owners who are responsible. Filter your leads to those who are more likely certified pugs for sale Michigan listers. Pug Puppies for Sale: How much does a baby pug cost in Michigan? High prices will come from popular breeders or other reputed breeders. This is the reason why one needs to check if the current finances are able to support another pet family member. Tell me the average price of Pug Puppies in Michigan? Conclusion Pug puppies are among the most adorable pups out there. They are energetic in their early years and they love to play. However, as they grow older, they tend to spend most of their sleeping in comfy spots at home. It is always the best choice to purchase pug puppies from breeders, adoption houses, rescue organizations, and other pet shops that have earned a good, solid reputation in the local community and would provide a health guarantee. You also need to consider the needs of the pugs before actually bringing them to your home. Aside from making your home puppy proof, make sure that you have the time to provide the attention they need. They also need to be constantly groomed. Keep an eye on the areas between the folds on their faces and always check its unique pug tail. Brush their coat at least once a week to control their shedding. You should try which shampoo helps with the shedding as well. Take light walks outside on the cooler parts of the day. This will help them cool down easier. Responsible Dog breeders are a gem. Here are some of the other topics we have created to help you search pugs for sale by location. Our staff are avid fans and dedicated owners of Pugs. We hope to answer all the questions you have about Pugs. Just read and enjoy. Feel free to share if you find it valuable to others! Best regards,

While litter box training does not replace a dog's need to run and play outdoors, it can keep your home cleaner with fewer accidents. The type of litter you purchase is extremely important, as a puppy may try to eat it. Choose a natural litter that does not clump to avoid an emergency visit to your veterinarian. With consistency and positive reinforcement, your puppy will be using the litter box on his own every day. Step 1 Choose a location in your home for your puppy's litter box training. If you have been using housebreaking pads or newspaper for your puppy, place the litter pan nearby. Choosing a tile or hardwood floor area is wise to make accidents easy to clean up. Step 2 Fill a disposable cookie sheet or pan with wood pellets or recycled paper litter. A cookie sheet is smaller and therefore easy for a little puppy to climb into and jump out. Wood pellets or litter made specifically for dogs is larger and more absorbent than traditional cat litter. Once it is soiled, it will break down to a sawdust consistency. Step 3 Place your puppy in the litter pan. Continue placing your puppy in the pan hourly. Each time you place him in the pan, give him a vocal cue such as "go on" or "potty. Your puppy may still have a few accidents, or not get his entire body into the box before attempting to use it. Do not punish him for accidents near the box. Instead, continue placing him in the box at regular intervals. Step 4 Replace the cookie pan or sheet with a litter box large enough to accommodate your growing puppy. Place the litter box in the same spot as the disposable pan for consistency, and show the new pan to your puppy. Tips If you notice your puppy begin to relieve himself outside of the pan, make a noise such as a clap or whistle to distract him, and place him in the litter pan. We all know cats are typically the fur family members to use a litter box. But what about dogs? Are there any good arguments for litter box training your canine friend? A dog litter box? Or an artificial grass pad? So I rarely advise pet parents to skip this opportunity. That said, there are a few instances when using a dog litter box is preferable. Is it right for your dog? This is especially true if you have a small dog, or tiny tinkler as I call them, since they often have more difficulty holding their urine than bigger dogs. This leads to more accidents in the house and bigger frustrations, which puts a damper on your relationship. I wrote an entirely different article that goes into more detail about why your dog is peeing in the house. But if you live in an area that sees several feet of snow or is primarily paved and gets very hot, an indoor dog litter box might actually be safer for your pet. You or Your Dog Have Mobility Issues If you or your dog have mobility issues, dog litter box training might be a good idea. Some companies, like doggybathroom. All you need to do is change out the pads and keep the inside clean. This can be a good option for medium-sized dogs that raise their leg to pee. The downside is the cost. The pee pads are disposable and will need to be replaced frequently. If you want to use dog litter, the sides of the litter box should be low enough for your dog to easily step over but high enough to contain the litter. Now what about artificial grass pads? The initial investment for a grass pad like this one is minimal. Can Dogs Use Cat Litter? Yes, technically, dogs can use cat litter. However, cat litter can be harmful if ingested, which is a risk since our canine friends are known to eat strange things from time to time. Dog litter typically consists of larger, more absorbent pellets, which are safer if ingested. Some are also made with recycled material, like wood or paper. Pin me! Whether you choose a litter box or a grass pad, will your dog really use it? This is the million doggie bone question. Can pet parents actually get their pups to use a dog litter box? In many cases, the answer is yes, you can. Trying to contain a Bull Mastiff in a box while they do their business would be quite a feat! And large dogs tend to raise their leg to pee, so the sides of the dog litter box would have to be very high to avoid soaking surrounding objects. Step 1: Find the Right Spot When house training dogs, we usually bring them outside. Do this by getting a paper towel or pee pad containing a little of their urine and placing it where you want them to go. Step 3: Praise Them for Using the Right Spot Again, just as you would do if training a dog to go outside, be sure to give them lots of praise and some training treats when they do their business in the right spot. But with time, your dog will understand how to use their new pee spot. And of course, you want your home to be sanitary. Consider Using Deodorizing Litter Cats have famously used litter boxes for a long time, so pet product manufacturers have developed many unique products that absorb pee effectively and suppress odor. By offering your old dog accessible litter boxes, you can almost eliminate the possibility of accidents, all while empowering your aging dog. By giving your dog a huge amount of praise and an immediate reward, you can override any other thoughts they may have, like a compulsion to mark. Watch for Digging or Coprophagia Dog owners encounter some of the most common issues when litter box training their dogs are digging and coprophagia. Unfortunately, the best way to address these issues is using a different potty training method. Buy a Litter Box With High Sides To avoid accidental spills, you should consider buying a litter box made of sturdy material with high sides. These prevent spills with male dogs since they can block any splashing. A flat litter box tray has drawbacks but is significantly better for large dogs. Generally, you will have an easier time litter box training a smaller dog, as a large dog will have difficulty containing their mess in a cat litter box that is entirely too small for their body. If you are set on litter box training a large dog, you will need to get creative with what you use as the litter box itself — using a large metal tray or a shallow plastic storage bin may be your best bet! A small dog can use a standard large litter box and keep the mess in the potty area. High sided litter box, intened for dog use 4. While litter box training a dog is not for everyone, you can teach your dog how to use one with persistence, treats, and positive reinforcement! How useful was this post? Click on a star to rate it! Submit Rating Please give us feedback on this post: Let us improve this post! Tell us how we can improve this post? 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Hiding treats for your dog to find. Obedience training Grooming The White German Shepherd is a heavy-shedding dog with a double white coat and requires regular brushing. Ideally, a White Shepherd should be groomed every other day, possibly daily, during the peak shedding season. Male vs. Female While for many animal species, the female is larger, with the German Shepherd, it is the males that are larger. While German Shepherds are all loyal and loving family dogs, it is often noted that females are more docile than males. This makes a female Shepherd a better choice for homes with young children. A female White Shepherd reaches sexual maturity at two years of age and has a litter of between five to ten puppies. They have an intelligent and fearless personality and are eager to learn and please. These traits make them wonderful family pets. A determined personality also makes shepherds adept at being working dogs. The White German Shepherd is a loyal and loving dog that quickly forms an unshakable bond with its family and is fiercely protective of them. It is vital for all dog owners to understand that training is important. Any German Shepherd breed needs to be trained and socialized correctly. Failing to do so leads to problems with jealousy and distrust of strangers. White German Shepherd Health and Care All dogs come with their own potential health problems and care requirements. For the White German Shepherd, there are several critical quality-of-life considerations to make. While both White and regular German Shepherds suffer from a lot of the same health issues, there are some with a higher prevalence in white breeds. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is one of the most common health issues faced by White German Shepherd dogs. Caused by a misformation of the hip joint, dysplasia is a painful condition resulting from bone-on-bone grinding. While it can be seen in White German Shepherd puppies as young as four months, it is more common in older dogs. It can be treated with the help of CBD Oil for hip dysplasia. Sadly, this painful condition is very prominent in German shepherds. This is largely due to their combined size and energy levels. Unfortunately, arthritis is a progressive condition that cannot be cured. In the White GSD, arthritis is more common in their hind legs than in their front. Gastric Bloat Gastric bloat is the common name for a serious medical complaint known as gastric dilatation volvulus GDV. Bloat commonly occurs in larger dogs, particularly German Shepherd breeds. There is no time to waste with this condition. If a dog is showing signs of bloat, they need immediate medical attention, as it could quickly become fatal. Canine Degenerative Myelopathy CDM Canine degenerative myelopathy is a degenerative disease that affects the spinal column. German Shepherds are one of the most commonly affected breeds. The result of CDM is commonly rear-leg paralysis. Middle-aged dogs between 4 and 14 years are more likely to be diagnosed with CDM. Pay attention to any limping or signs of motion impingement. Other Diseases Deafness is another disease that is more common for the White German Shepherd than other breeds. As a general rule, deafness is a common health concern for white-coated dogs and other animals. Some of the core allergies that affect this breed are related to chicken, wheat, and dairy. Dental decay is also a serious problem that is frequently observed in German Shepherds. More so with them than many other breeds. Using dental chews in combination with a healthy diet is a great way to promote healthy teeth and gums. They love to be challenged, while their loyalty sees them eager to please. While Shepherds make great pets, it is important to train them from a young age. Below are five training tips for White German Shepherds. Be consistent: White and other German Shepherds all respond better to training when there is consistency to things. Everything from your manner to the commands you use needs to be consistent from one training session to another. Layer your training in easy-to-iterate steps. Master one of two commands before introducing something else. Be a leader: It is important to remember that dogs are looking for you to be a leader and not a dominator. You must be prepared to take charge rather than use aggression as a training tactic. Communicate properly: Dogs do not communicate the same way humans do. It is important to understand the right way to communicate with your White Shepherd. Short and clear commands yield the best results. Also, avoid using similar-sounding commands, as these are likely to confuse your dog. Practice positive reinforcement: Never punish a dog for not doing well in training or for struggling to recognize a command. Instead, positive reinforcement is the recommended training practice. Reward your furry friend for every good deed. However, the exact costs will vary depending on where you are and the size of the litter. The price also relates to buying White Shepherd puppies from a recognized breeder and not from a puppy farm or through shelter adoption. White German Shepherds are different from other German Shepherd dogs in so far as they have a white coat rather than the traditional tan and brown. However, genetically, there is no difference between White Shepherds and other shepherds. The difference between them is that the White German Shepherd carries a recessive white gene that changes its fur color. This is the same way some humans are born with blond hair. Conclusion The White German Shepherd is the rare form of one of the most easily recognized dogs in the world. Wonderful family dogs. German Shepherds love to be part of the family. They struggle when home alone for long periods. Luckily, this breed is very good with children. The same as any other dog, White Shepherds need to be trained. Exercise is also crucial for this breed, as they can become destructive if they do not get enough physical and mental stimulation. If you work from home or have a family member at home a lot of the day, then a White German Shepherd is an ideal dog. Just make sure ahead of time that you understand the amount of work it takes to train a shepherd puppy from a young age. Whether you are a new or experienced dog owner, the White Shepherd is a great choice for your house. All dogs need love and affection, but the hyper-intelligent German Shepherd needs more than most in order for them to truly feel settled in their home. Luckily, the effort you put in is returned multiple folds in the affection your dog shows. Related Guide:. Our dogs have mellow, affectionate, and playful temperaments, love water, and especially children. They are living as trustworthy family members, as emotional support dogs, service dogs, and medical alert dogs around the world! Content Link Block Polarbear is our Name. Or perhaps just looking for the total package in a dog? Health and longevity remains the foundation of all we do. Take for example, the standard German Shepherd dog as seen in this photo: View fullsize …Dogs bred with these traits often end up with crippling disabilities and premature death. This is so inhumane. The focus of our kennel, on the other hand, is to produce dogs with straight backs, broad heads, and short coats, as in the photo of Polarbear's foundation sire, Shack Von Hammer below. Aside from their magnificent appearance, Polarbear White Shepherds are calm, sociable, and affectionate. They are gifted empaths and comedians at heart. Their goofy personalities and love of children make them perfect nannies for even the youngest child. They love water, retrieving frisbees, and diving into the occasional swimming pool. What kind of dogs do all that? And they are living fulfilled lives, as medical detection dogs, service dogs, and family and companion dogs in nearly every state in the United States! World Map of our Clients Before leaving, you might like to click on some of our pages. Our "Words of Warning" for those purchasing a purebred dog for the first time on the internet is a favorite. Just remember this quote…. No amount of training or special food will fix a problem dog. If you want to view videos of our dogs, check out our Youtube Channel page. If you appreciate our breeding philosophy and love what we do, do let us know by becoming a fan! This unique dog is bred from German Shepherds and carries many of the same characteristics, yet it also carries the recessive white furred coat gene. Read on below to find out more about this special breed of dog and whether they could be the right pup for you. This is because the White German Shepherd carries the recessive white furred gene, which is just the same as some humans carrying the recessive blonde haired gene. This color never really stuck, and therefore the White German Shepherd never became as popular as other colors of German Shepherds. They are very popular working dogs who are known for their work as police dogs, military dogs and herding dogs. They are also very popular family dogs because of their loyalty and protective nature. They were first discovered by Von Stephanitz who spotted the German Shepherd at a dog show and decided that this breed was the perfect standard for a working dog. Horand was the first breed standard for the German Shepherd breed and was bred alongside dogs with a similar appearance to give German Shepherd litters. They are thought to have first appeared in the United States in and were recognized by the AKC in .Appearance White German Shepherd puppies look like little balls of fluff and are extremely cute! By 1 year of age, they should be at their adult height. You should always buy from a reputable breeder because sometimes breeders try pass off German Shepherd mixes for pure white German Shepherds. The White German Shepherd can weigh anywhere between 50 to 85 pounds with a male weighing more than a female. They are classified as a large dog breed and stand tall at 22 to 26 inches at the shoulder. Again, females are normally shorter than the males. They are a very muscular and athletic breed, which is no surprise because they were bred for their working capabilities. They are very strong and wear a proud posture and have erect ears. Their feet are big too, even when they are puppies! Coat The White German Shepherd has two different types of coat — short coat and long coat. If your White German Shepherd has a long coat, it will typically be much longer than other German Shepherds in the breed. The fur is thick and straight and does require quite a bit of grooming, although we will go into more detail about that below. When they are a puppy, their coat is normally super fluffy. It does become more coarse as they get older, but their ears remain fluffy. Their coat is also a double-coat which helps add protection against harsh winds or rain. Color Of course, the coat color of the White German Shepherd is white! This is what makes them stand out and a unique breed. The white coat recessive gene only impacts the fur color and does not have any effect on their skin or eye pigment. This makes identifying a white German Shepherd very simple and also closely resembles their wolf ancestors. In every other aspect, they mirror the appearance of a standard tan German Shepherd with the same dark brown eyes. They are very protective and make excellent guard dogs or watchdogs. They are also extremely loyal and love to be around people, which makes them a great family dog as well as an excellent working dog. They may also bark at strangers, but this is just because they are trying to protect you! A White Shepherd is an active dog and needs to be mentally stimulated. As we mentioned above, they are originally a working dog and love to be outside running and playing. Lifespan The life expectancy of a White German Shepherd is relatively long. They can live between 12 to 14 years. Many of the problems they are more likely to develop are the same problems that other breeds of German Shepherd deal with. The most common health problem for the German Shepherd dog breed is elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. Dysplasia is a condition that is seen in many large dogs and is a disease of a malformation of the joints. The joints can become very painful and may worsen over time causing lameness. The best way to ensure your pup is less prone to any of these conditions is to buy from a reputable breeder and to ensure you get health clearances from both parents. You should also check your dog often for any signs of these issues and take them to the vet regularly for checkups. Daily Life Now you know all about the characteristics and traits of this unique German Shepherd breed, it is time to take a look at what daily life with them is like. We will look at what to feed this dog, how much exercise they need and what grooming of this big breed should be. It comes as no surprise that this is a high maintenance dog breed, but they are worth it! It is recommended that you feed them a diet specially formulated for large dog breeds and you should always check the back of the dog food packet to see how much food you should be feeding your doggie based on their weight. Experts recommend that a White German Shepherd should be eating around calories a day, which is around 3 cups of food. As a puppy, they should be fed three times a day which can then be decreased to two meals a day as an adult. However, if you have a busy lifestyle then this can just be one meal a day. Their food should be healthy and nutritious. It should cover all the nutrients that a dog of this size needs, including proteins, fats and carbohydrates. High-quality dry kibble is a great option, although some dog owners opt to feed their pup raw food. Exercise It is not a surprise that this breed of white dog is very active and has high exercise needs. As a working dog and a breed that is often used as a police dog, they need lots of mental and physical stimulation to keep them happy. You should ensure that you are exercising your German Shepherd for 60 to 90 minutes a day. This includes walks, playing and mental games. Your doggie will want a big back yard to run around in too, so they will not be getting the exercise they need if you live in a small apartment. Without adequate exercise, they can develop unwanted and destructive behaviors due to frustration and boredom. Family Compatibility A White Shepherd makes an excellent family dog. Because they are so loyal, they will want to protect you from anything harmful, which makes them an excellent guard dog. However, you will need to train them from a young age to understand that not everything is a threat, otherwise they may well bark for hours! We mentioned above how much exercise a German Shepherd needs. As a working dog, they need lots of physical and mental stimulation, so they are the perfect pet for those who are outside a lot. Because they are a large dog, they also need a good amount of space. This includes a back yard that they can run around in. Your German Shepherd will not thrive in a small apartment as they will feel like they are being cooped up and may begin to exhibit destructive behaviors. This breed does have a naturally high prey drive, so you will need to take care when introducing them to children for the first time. That being said, when socialized properly, White German Shepherds love children and will even take your children under their wing. The older your dog is, the harder it will be to introduce them to new things and people, but it still can be done. They also get on very well with other family pets, so there will be no issue there and they will become a loved family member. Training The White German Shepherd is a very intelligent dog and is therefore very easy to train. Their ease of training means that they make a great family dog as well as a dog for couples or individuals. You should train them from a very young age and always use positive reinforcement. This can include verbal praise and yummy treats to show them that they are doing a good job. German Shepherds can be a little stubborn, so you should never punish them or scold them. They are great detectives too, so hiding treats and getting them to sniff the treats out makes a fun game to play! Grooming Unfortunately, your White German Shepherd will shed all year round. This is because their coat is so thick. One way to minimize shed is to ensure that you brush them at least two to three times a week. Bathing is not necessary often — only when they look dirty. Brushing their teeth is very important to prevent dental decay and gum disease, although you can give them dental chews every day to help keep their teeth clean. One way to ensure that grooming your German Shepherd is not a traumatic experience for them is to begin grooming them from a young age. This will show them that there is nothing to be afraid of. White markings tend to be determined by the genes on the S locus. The white areas tend to be at the tip of the tail, end of the muzzle, breastbone, or paws. This is known as residual white. The cause may be unknown or may be due to a minor illness in the mother. This transition occurs when the pup is around months old and sheds his soft fluffy coat. This process can happen quickly or may take a few months. You may also see changes in the pattern. Nonetheless, she had many white markings across her chest as a puppy, which soon blended into her thick adult coat. Below is a picture of her at three months old. My 3-month-old German Shepherd Willow showing off her white chest markings! German Shepherds can have white paws. It usually appears on the tips of the paws. This study determined that the variant was associated with one or more spotting patterns in many dog breeds, including the German Shepherd. Regarding paws, white spotting can occur on one paw, all four, or any combination. What is a Panda German Shepherd? So, what exactly are they? They tend to have symmetrical markings of white forelock, muzzle, chest, belly, collar, and tail tip. The amount of white coloring can vary from dog to dog. They are typical-looking German Shepherds, other than their color, and have the same temperament and traits. The first-ever recorded Panda mutation occurred relatively recently in a female GSD in the year .Although these dogs look like they have Irish spotting consisting of white muzzle blazes and Border Collie-type markings, they are very different. This is due to being caused by the mutated dominant KIT gene. The gene that causes Irish spotting is yet to be identified. This allows German Shepherd breeders to establish whether the KIT gene mutation causes white patterning. There are often misunderstandings about whether German Shepherds with white markings can enter dog shows. However, this is a difficult question and depends entirely on the breed standard of the individual country. Strong rich colors are preferred. Pale, washed-out colors and blues or livers are serious faults. A white dog must be disqualified. However, they are still allowed to be registered as purebred. They are also still permitted to participate in events, such as herding trials, tracking, and obedience. However, the consensus is inconspicuous white markings would not disqualify the dog from conformation. The UK Kennel Club also recognizes the all-white German Shepherd but states they are highly undesirable for conformation. However, they also refer to dogs having white markings. There are many varieties of coat colors in the German Shepherd breed. These are the main ones:. Raising dogs for you and your family. Call or text .Every breed has different requirements, whether the space they must have or the amount of exercise they need. If you are not certain yet, check out our essential White German Shepherd breed info to find out everything about the White German Shepherd. How to find White German Shepherd puppies for sale? When buying a puppy, it is important to consider not only the pet but also the breeder. Because a responsible breeder will ensure their dogs come from the strongest bloodlines and have the best start to life. Ask about the health and temperament of their White German Shepherd pups as well as their living environment. But also find out about the breeder's practices and commitments. A good breeder will be happy to answer everything before you decide. After all, they will want to ensure that their dog goes to a good home. When you have done your research and got all the info you need, you can then choose the right breeder with confidence. To help ensure you choose a responsible breeder, all the White German Shepherd kennels you see listed here are verified by Pets4You. You will also find that the best breeders will provide a guarantee with their dog. This information, and more, is available on the breeder's website within Pets4You. Browse through our dog breeder directory with complete breeder profiles and current puppies for sale to find your dream dog. Disclaimer It is the duty of every person that is considering buying a puppy or dog to confirm all the information provided to them by the breeder is accurate. Pets4You makes no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the condition of any dogs offered for sale, the standards or practices of any breeder, the quality of their canines, or the accuracy of any information contained within our site. Pets4You does not endorse, recommend, or guarantee a particular kennel, breeder or dogs listed on the Pets4You website. For Buyers.

What is the process for purchasing a New Skete German Shepherd puppy? New Skete accepts applications for puppies periodically throughout the year. Please check back frequently if you are interested in applying for a puppy. After I apply, how long before I would be able to get a puppy? We are a small monastery and operate a small breeding program. Mother Nature can be fickle and we never know how many puppies will be born. The wait time can be up to 2 years. What is the price of a puppy? New Skete puppies are socialized. They are handled from an early age and introduced to different people and situations. What is the price of an adult dog? This is subject to change without notice. Can I purchase an adult dog? Adult dogs have completed the New Skete Dog Training program. We are not accepting adult dog applications at this time. Tips for applying All applications must be submitted online. There are no "trick" questions or right or wrong answers on the application. We ask for your contact information, ask you to tell us about your home, your experience with dogs, what you are looking for in a New Skete German Shepherd puppy, and just a few more questions about the care and training your puppy will receive. Instructions on Applying Check this webpage often for the application. Complete the application in its entirety. A copy of your application will be automatically emailed to you, upon submission. Questions or comments on the application process? Email nsshepherds newskete. The program includes follow up to insure your happiness and success. We are always available to help dogs that have completed our training. If you are interested in enrolling your dog in the program, please complete the webform. We need to have your application electronically on record in order to keep track of your dog's place on our waiting list. We understand that sometimes life gets hectic and situations can arise that may cause training to sink on our lists of priorities. It is easy to get side-tracked. Will my dog miss me? Who will train my and care for my dog? What is a typical day like? There is plenty of mental and physical stimulation to keep your dog engaged and content as well as time for rest. Your dog will get three to four formal sessions and several informal session over the course of the day. These will include learning to walk politely on leash and the other basic training skills, distraction training, and off-leash work that focuses on reliable recall. This integrated program is designed to make your dog the companion you dreamed of. Your dog will be trained and cared for by the Monks of New Skete. For over 40 years, New Skete, has dedicated itself to providing the best possible companion dogs for you and your family. Do I stay at the monastery? What do I have to do once I get my dog home? New Skete offers a board and train program for your dog. Some refer to this type of program as a training camp. Prior to your appointment we will schedule an online meeting to discuss your dog's behavior and review an average day at New Skete Training. At the time of scheduled drop-off you will meet with one of the trainers and ask any last minute questions. Prior to your dog's return home, we will schedule an online meeting with one of the brothers. At your scheduled pick-up one of the trainers will work with you until you are comfortable with the commands and using the training tools. You do not stay at the monastery. During your online Go-Home meeting, you will be presented with a plan for continuing your dog's training at home. This plan includes printed and video materials, and covers general information such as getting started, the ten commands, review of the go-to place command, information on the e-collar, and training exercises specifically for you and your dog. If you follow the program consistently, you will reinforce the training which has already taken place and will continue to build a relationship with your dog that is mutually fulfilling. Support for the life of your dog? Our training includes support for the life of your dog. Upon returning home with your dog, should you have questions, simply email us. We will email, call, Zoom, use videos, or schedule a visit to address your questions. He is the primary author of the dog training books written by the monks. Tom attended a workshop hosted at New Skete, and then became an apprentice under Brother Christopher's tutelage. Tom holds a degree in psychology, but his passion for helping dogs and their owners led him to becoming a dog trainer. Tom is a member of the International Association of Canine Professionals. She has been a member of the training team at New Skete for over three years now. Sarah is also a pet photographer. Sarah is a member of the International Association of Canine Professionals. Logan - Kennel Assistant Logan joined our team early spring .He grew up on his family farm raising alpacas, llamas, chickens and various other animals. Currently, he helps a local Amish family care for their horses and sheep. Brittany - Kennel Assistant Brittany is the newest member of our team. Prior to working here, Brittany worked as a dog daycare attendant, supervising up to 40 dogs at a time. Josh wears multiple hats for the monastery. After tending to the dogs in the training program he handles all maintenance projects for the monks and is also their cook. Shortly after beginning her employment with New Skete she was asked to assist the training team with coordinating the training schedule and working with the clients. We train every day and she seems to love the exercises. As you can see from the picture, she has become quite enthusiastic about coming when called and all her other exercises. Thanks again for your wonderful work with her. We thought they both did very well, and thought we would share it with you. This was spur of the moment and without "tools. Not only was he a lover of all things dog, he saw clearly their spiritual importance and how they can enrich our lives when they are cared for and loved. Maurice included his dogs in each of his books, and their presence reflects just how vital they were to his inspiration. We are blessed to have known his friendship and support, and through the generosity of the Maurice Sendak Foundation we honor his legacy and keep his memory eternal. The Building The new training facility is a 6, square feet, modest barn-style building. The design features geo-thermal heated floors, and an indoor training area for times of inclement weather. Each dog is housed in its own kennel and run. Dogs can see their neighbor in the next run. Safety and comfort are key in the design. The Grounds New Skete is a small monastery located near the quaint village of Cambridge, approximately one hour north of Albany, New York. The monastery and the training kennel are found on a gentle slope of Two Top Mountain. Play sessions in our fenced yard further your dog's experience and are coupled with informal training. Perfect for anyone that would like to learn the unique and detailed method taught in the book with all the authors' professional shortcuts to move things along quicker. Work with a New Skete dog, bring your own dog, or participate without handling a dog. This workshop is conducted by Brother Christopher and co-author Marc Goldberg. New Skete German Shepherds and Dog Training The Art of Living with Dogs For many of us, love for creation deepens through the relationships we form with our pets, particularly our dogs. By their very nature and need, dogs draw us out of ourselves: they root us in nature, making us more conscious of the mystery of God inherent in all things. In our particular monastic context of New Skete, we have been privileged to share this in a special way with our German Shepherds, who in an entirely natural way have taught us many important lessons about life and about ourselves. Our relationship with the German Shepherd breed began when we were given our first dog, Kir, in the early days of our monastery. Kir was a beloved pet to all of us and our relationship with him led us to adopt more German Shepherd dogs and eventually, at the request of friends, to begin breeding these intelligent and beautiful animals. Breeding Program For over 40 years, we have worked hard to make our German Shepherd Dog breeding program produce the best possible companion dog for individuals and families. We strive for excellence in temperament, personality and physical structure by carefully researching select bloodlines. Together with the early handling and socialization we give our developing pups, we believe this strategy creates the best possible outcomes for our week old pups and their new owners as they get to know one another. Our breeding dogs live in a family environment, each with a monk or a nun who is responsible for the dog's training and care. Some of our breeding dogs live with local families who are in close contact with the monastery. Dogs are essentially social creatures who thrive when directed positively. For this reason, our approach emphasizes the social relationship as the single most important factor in your life with your dog. Developing a healthy relationship with your dog depends foremost on establishing a climate of mutual trust and respect. This begins at adoption and continues throughout your life with your dog. Find out more Dog Training for all Breeds Our aim is to make it possible for owners to include their dogs fully in their lives, to help them realize the dream of what such a relationship can be. Our methods, described at length our books, How to Be Your Dog's Best Friend, The Art of Raising a Puppy, Divine Canine, and most recently, Let Dogs be Dogs, employs a philosophy of praise, fairness, and discipline, set against a background of patience, repetition and dedication. Additionally, we have stayed current with the latest advances in training methodology, and have incorporated the gentle use of remote collars. We use them on very low levels usually lower than a human can feel in their own hand as a way to communicate with the dog. Here at New Skete we offer a course in AKC American Kennel Club type obedience, incorporating the values of our monastic environment with the teaching of standard excercises both on and off leash. We also help owners with any behavioral difficulities they may mention to us. Find out more We are committed to making our products and services accessible to everyone. We strive to follow WCAG accessibility standards, and have placed our website through evaluation and testing tools to maintain compliance with Section of the Rehabilitation Act. If you have any difficulties accessing or utilizing any portion of our site, please contact Ida Williams at nscom newskete. Cookie Policy. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Training: The Flood Farm breeding program is a small operation, just one breeding pair, and one litter at a time. This allows us to give personal attention, handling, socialization, and training to each pup individually. By 8 weeks of age, when our pups are ready to go home, each puppy has begun learning how to Sit, Come, Lie Down, walk on a leash, and is on their way to being completely housebroken. This solid foundation for later training in addition to the excellent breeding lines, certified by the German SV for healthy hips and elbows, hold the Flood Farm German Shepherds to a high standard. Through the application process, Cindy learns all she can about the lifestyles and homes of the families who will be taking the puppies into their hearts, ensuring that the puppy placed in their care will be happy and successful in his or her new life. Adoption Process: If you are interested in adopting a Flood Farm pup, the first step will be to fill out a questionnaire, which can be requested by email through the Contact Us page. The second step is a phone interview with Cindy, and finally, a visit to the farm itself to meet our family, both two- and four-legged. Brother Christopher, 66, heads up a renowned dog-training program at the nine-man New Skete Monastery , nestled in the foothills of the Adirondacks and Green Mountains north of Albany, NY. The wait list is typically three to four months long. There are currently 50 dogs on the waiting list. Dogs must be seven months or older to qualify for the program. A German shepherd puppy is put through the paces at the New Skete Monastery. Tamara Beckwith Since reopening in May after a three-month shutdown, the course has never been more in demand. Brothers train dogs from all over the country. Tamara Beckwith In the past year, the three monks who run the program, along with two lay trainers and a kennel assistant, have trained 64 dogs from the Greater New York area. These were in addition to the dozens of canines that have been brought from as far away as New Orleans. They eventually moved to their current, more isolated location and set about building their monastery: two wood-frame churches, living quarters and a meditation garden. During their struggles to settle in, Kyr proved to be a best friend to the men. When he died in , the monks felt his loss so deeply that they knew they needed a replacement, said Brother Christopher. During the search, a breeder suggested they start breeding dogs to financially support the monastery. As the first two dogs had two litters, each monk was assigned a puppy to train. But with as many as 12 dogs living under the same roof, the brothers found themselves forced to teach good behavior. When guests began to comment on how well-behaved the dogs were, the monks saw an opportunity that would give them both purpose and security. The monks are completely self-sufficient. Brother Christopher arrived in , three years after the monks published their first dog-training manual. The abbot flatly refused, and Brother Christopher begrudgingly immersed himself in research. It infinitely expands the realm of spirituality. It was an experience of communion and unity as special as anything I had experienced in church. Tamara Beckwith Still, even the New Skete monks have their limits. Sendak, who died in , became close with the monks after adopting one of their German shepherds.

Be sure to share this information with your vet. Illnesses such as diabetes, cancer, hepatitis and inflammatory bowel disease may manifest as weight lost, [1] X Research source but require additional treatments and medications. Therefore, a pet with an undiagnosed condition will not improve with food alone. In fact, they will get much worse without proper treatment. Talk to your vet about using body conditioning scoring BCS to help objectively assess whether your pet is too thin, too heavy or just right. A sample chart can be seen here. If your dog seems underweight based on the BCS, you should talk to your vet about an approach to help your dog gain weight. In general, your dog is at a healthy weight if you can see their waist, you can feel their ribs when petting their sides without actually seeing the outline of the ribs and their belly curves upward to meet their hips. Some breeds, like Greyhounds, and some hunting and herding dogs Border Collies, Pointers tend to be leaner than other breeds like Mastiffs and Labrador Retrievers. It is best to have your vet do a fecal test for intestinal parasites, but if you are unable to do that, you can diagnose and treat your dog for worms from home. Make sure to consult your vet before embarking on a rigorous exercise plan. Gradually increasing controlled walks on leash is usually safe for most dogs and less likely to cause injury. Make sure the entry and exit from the water are set up to prevent injury getting in and out of the pool, lake, or river. Translation missing: en. While obese and overweight dogs are far too common, what if your dog has the opposite problem and actually needs to gain some healthy weight? Dogs can suddenly or gradually become underweight for many reasons. This article includes reasons that your dog could be underweight, signs that your dog is at their ideal weight, and lots of strategies and healthy food ideas to plump your dog up. Helping your dog maintain a healthy weight is extremely important. It lets them live a longer, happier life, and a study by Banfield Pet Hospital showed that it could increase their lifespan by up to 2. Losing and gaining a couple pounds or ounces is normal, but there are some clear signs that a dog is underweight: Visible ribs, hips, shoulders, or tail bones Lower energy levels Poor eating habits Dull, dry, or shedding coat If a dog is underweight, it can be a sign of a health problem because it may indicate malnourishment, digestive issues, dental problems, parasites, infections, or other underlying medical conditions that require attention and treatment. A healthy weight is essential for a dog's overall well-being, and owners should consult with a veterinarian if they suspect their dog is underweight. They may also be sensitive to taste, texture, meal times, and more. Stress or Anxiety A week of spooky thunderstorms, strangers visiting, a new dog in the house, going to the groomer — stress-induced weight loss is another possibility. Age Weight fluctuates naturally as your dog ages. Puppies have more fat, while adult dogs tend to lose weight the older they become due to changes in appetite, activity levels, sicknesses, and more. Remember that feeding guidelines are just suggestions and your dog may need bigger portions. How To Tell if Your Dog Is a Healthy Weight All breeds have a healthy weight range, and you can refer to a breed weight chart for a quick reference point. Follow these three steps and it may be helpful to take pictures : Rib check: Get your dog into a comfortable standing position and run both of your palms across their ribcage, one hand on either side. Notice how easily you can feel their ribs, spine, hips, and tail bones. Profile check: Crouch level with your dog and view them from the side. See if their abdomen is tucked up, visibly curving upward from their rib cage. You may have to feel their abdomen area if their coat is in the way. Overhead check: Look down at your dog from an overhead angle and check whether you can see their waist behind their ribs. Then, compare your dog to the chart below. If your dog is a healthy weight, their ribs should be barely visible or not at all, and you should be able to feel their ribs without too much of a fat covering. Their abdomen should be tucked up toward their pelvis and their waist should have an hourglass shape. Use the tips below. Remember, none of these are overnight fixes. Your veterinarian can also give you an appropriate goal weight for your dog so you can reach milestones safely and celebrate every pound. Keep a Health Journal One of the best pieces of weight gaining advice we can give is to create a detailed health journal for your dog. Keep track of their daily meals and treats including portion size and calorie count if possible , exercise routine, weight, and mood or behavior. With everything recorded in the journal, you can more easily connect cause with effect and understand which strategies are truly working. If their weight changes at the next weigh-in — gain or loss — simply flip back to your entries to see what happened. Land on a good change? Repeat it. Notice a worrying change? Document it and ask your vet. Weigh Your Dog Regularly Most weight loss programs for people recommend weekly weigh-ins, and the same applies to your canine. Weekly weigh-ins are an excellent tool because they allow you to clearly chart any gains, losses, or weight maintenance over time. Weekly weigh-ins are fine. Adding too many calories or fat too quickly could cause digestive problems like vomiting, diarrhea, or inflammation of the pancreas. Feed Them Small Meals Often Set up a feeding schedule so your dog eats three or four small meals each day rather than one or two large meals. This is a great weight-gaining tactic because small portions help your dog better digest their food and metabolize the nutrition throughout the day. To make this strategy work, try not to go more than six hours between meals. As you transition from larger meals to smaller ones, prepare one large, normal meal and then divide it into smaller meals to serve. Incorporate Exercise It may seem counterproductive to recommend exercise for a dog who needs to gain weight. After all, exercise burns calories, right? As an added bonus, the activity boost will increase their appetite. Sore muscles are no fun for anyone. They add novelty and variety to their diet so they keep eating consistently and jump up excitedly when you call them for meal time. These types of snacks are designed to be nutrient-dense, with ingredients that keep your dog feeling energized and reduce side effects of weight loss. Not only will this ease the transition for your dog, but it will help you change your schedule and habits as well. Steaming, boiling, or roasting keeps the fat content low. Sweet potatoes Sweet potatoes are the ultimate superfood for dogs and humans, with lots of Vitamin A for strong nerves, bones, and muscles. Start with small amounts of cooked, skinless sweet potatoes. Peanut butter Dogs love peanut butter! Just be sure to avoid peanut butters with sweeteners like xylitol , which is toxic to dogs. Pumpkin Pumpkins are hydrating, high in fiber, and also rich in Vitamin A and zinc. Plain, canned pumpkin is inexpensive and works well. Foods That The Honest Kitchen Recommends Take a look at these foods specially formulated to support the proper weight and diet for your canine. Here are some of the best human foods to help your dog bulk up: Eggs - Raw, scrambled, over easy. Just make sure they are plain. Cottage Cheese - Full fat. Lean meat - Raw or cooked to match their diet. Quinoa — It provides usable energy to fatten up your dog and is one of the only carbs that contains a full spectrum of essential amino acids needed for muscle building. Instead, you need to slowly increase portions over time. Tracking changes to your dog's meals and recording weekly weight check-ins can help you to learn what works and what doesn't. Smaller dogs will need smaller changes, and a larger dog may be able to handle more drastic increases. Increase Activity As you increase calories, you need to increase activity too. An extra 5 minutes on your walk, a few more ball tosses in the backyard, fattening up a dog or even some extra mental exercise like puzzles and indoor games can be helpful. To find out how much exercise your dog needs, check out our Ultimate Guide to Exercising your Dog. Frequently Asked Questions Is my dog too skinny? Determining if your dog is too skinny requires considering their breed, age, and overall health. Consult with your veterinarian to assess your dog's body condition score and discuss any concerns you may have. They can provide guidance on whether your dog is at a healthy weight or if there may be underlying medical issues that may need attention. How do I help my skinny dog gain weight? To help your skinny dog gain weight, it's important to first rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be causing the weight loss. If your dog is healthy, then start increasing your dog's portion sizes, feeding them high-quality, calorie-dense dog food, and adding healthy supplements like omega-3 fatty acids or digestive enzymes to their daily diet regime. How to make your dog fat? Making your dog fat is not a healthy goal. Instead, focus on helping your dog achieve a healthy weight through proper nutrition and exercise. If your dog is underweight, consult with a veterinarian to find the underlying cause and develop a safe and effective weight gain plan tailored to your dog's specific needs. What human food can I give my dog for healthy weight gain? While it's generally recommended to feed dogs a balanced diet formulated for their specific nutritional needs, certain human foods can be used to help your dog gain weight. These include cooked chicken, turkey, or lean beef, plain yogurt, eggs, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin. Many of the top foods contain these healthy ingredients. What can I give my dog to gain weight? To help your dog gain weight, you can try a few things. First, choose a high-quality dog food that is calorie-dense and contains real meat, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Increase the portion size and feeding frequency to provide more calories throughout the day. You can include calorie-dense treats or additions to their meals, such as cooked chicken or boiled eggs. Can stress or anxiety cause weight loss in dogs? Yes, stress or anxiety can potentially cause weight loss in dogs. Just like humans, dogs may experience appetite changes or have difficulty maintaining a healthy weight when stressed or anxious. If you suspect that your dog's weight loss is related to stress or anxiety, consult with a veterinarian to address the underlying causes and explore potential solutions. Are there any specific dog breeds that are naturally leaner? Yes, some dog breeds tend to have a naturally leaner body structure. Breeds like Greyhounds, Whippets, and some Terrier breeds, for example, have a lean and slender build even when at a healthy weight. It's important to understand the breed standards and consult with a veterinarian to determine if your dog's weight is appropriate for their specific breed. Are there any potential health concerns associated with rapid weight gain in dogs? Rapid weight gain in dogs can pose health risks, including an increased strain on joints and bones, exacerbation of existing health conditions, and an increased risk of obesity-related health issues. It's crucial to ensure that any weight gain plan is implemented gradually and under the guidance of a veterinarian to minimize the risk of health complications. How long does it typically take for a dog to gain weight? The time it takes for a dog to put on pounds can vary depending on many things, such as the dog's overall health, metabolism, and the desired amount of weight gain. Generally, it's important to take a gradual approach to weight gain to ensure it is done safely and in a way that promotes the dog's overall health. It's best to work with a veterinarian to develop a customized weight gain plan for your dog. She has worked in the pet industry for over a decade and loves to share her passion for animal welfare with others. She is currently working for one very rebellious cat, Jack, and hanging out with a goofy but loveable doggo named Roxy. Helping your dog to lose weight. Is My Labrador Fat? The best way to tell is by eye and touch. Have a look at your dog and compare him with the picture below of a healthy Labrador. Look at your dog from the side. Does his belly slope upwards towards his groin, or is it a level line from his front legs to his back, or even worse is it sagging down between his legs? Your Labrador should have an upward sloping line from the base of his chest, towards his back legs. Now look at the dog from above. You should be able to! Your dog should not be the same width all the way down his body. Look at your dog from the side again. Can you see any ribs? Run you hands along his rib cages firmly. Can you feel his ribs? If you can see ribs when he is standing still he is too thin. If you cannot feel his ribs at all with your hands he is too fat! As we have seen above, the best way to tell if you have a fat Labrador is by looking and feeling. The trouble with providing you with a number is that it can give a false impression. Depending upon whether your Lab is field or bench bred, short or tall, chunky or slight, male or female, will all make a big difference to their ideal weight for the individual. The average adult Labrador will weigh anywhere between 55 to 80 lbs! Male Labs usually being around 5 to 10 lbs heavier than their female counterparts. If you are still unsure whether your Lab is the right weight for his or her build having given her a thorough check yourself as described above, then the best thing to do is to pop down to your local veterinarian. They will be happy to let you know how much your individual Labrador should weigh. Why Is My Labrador Fat? So how did your slim little puppy end up as a fat adult Labrador? There are three common assumptions that people make when considering how their dogs came to be overweight. Does the dog need more exercise? Has he got some kind of medical problem? Or am I just feeding him too much at mealtimes or giving too many snacks? In general if your dog is overweight the real reason is simply that he has eaten too much. Or rather, been allowed to eat too much. Does my dog need more exercise? He may well need more exercise, but that is not why he is fat. He is overweight because when you take into account the amount he exercises along with a number of other factors, he has eaten too much. The exercise needs of your dog are an important but separate issue, which we look at in other articles. The important thing to remember is this: The less exercise you give the dog, the less you must feed him. Once put on, weight is hard to shift and it will simply go up and up over time. Medical causes of canine obesity Although most dogs who are overweight have simply had a few too many bites to eat, there are some medical causes for obesity which do crop up from time to time. Canine medical conditions that can affect your Labs weight include hypothyroidism, insulinoma and hyperadrenocorticism. If a medical condition is the reason then the weight gain will normally be sudden and unexpected. If you are concerned by sudden weight gain in your Lab when you have not been giving him more food, then a checkup at the vets is definitely in order. You may also find that your dog puts on weight after having been neutered. If this is the case you will need to adjust your feeding habits accordingly. However, for most dogs weight gain is a simple result of over feeding. My Labrador is always hungry People are often concerned because they worry that their dog is still hungry after eating his dinner. Here is an important truth: Most Labradors are always hungry. You cannot win this battle. These are greedy dogs and your Labrador will always want more food than you give him. No matter how much that may be. If your Labrador is overweight he really needs to eat less and he will get used to his new regime quite quickly. Are Fat Labs Less Healthy? If you have looked at your Labrador and decided he is overweight, you might be wondered whether that actually matters. Is it really worth the effort of ignoring those puppy dog eyes and whines for extra food? Slim dogs are healthier Being overweight predisposes you to an awful lot of unpleasant health problems. This is true regardless of whether you are a human or a dog. Carrying extra pounds can also make existing problems your dog may have worse. For example joint problems like arthritis and hip dysplasia can be exacerbated by having more weight to lug around. As well as joints and bones suffering from obesity related issues, increased body fat can also make your dog more likely to have problems with their organs including those needed for breathing and digestion. Just a bit of extra fat can have a host of unwanted consequences. Being a fat Lab puppy can potentially make your dog more likely to suffer from joint problems later in life. Slim dogs live longer Not only will a slim dog have a better level of fitness and a lower likelihood of becoming unwell, they will in all probability live longer too. Those Labs on the large food ration had a median lifespan of over 11 years old. Those on the smaller food ration lived to be over 13 years old. When you look at the difference which can be made in these terms, by helping your Lab to stay slim you could be giving him an incredible two more years with you! If he gets a lot of household scraps these may have to go too. If you use food as rewards in dog training, this should be deducted from his daily food allowance. It could also help to find healthier alternatives to your usual training treats. Bear in mind that if your dog is unwell, old or very young , it is sensible to consult your vet before tampering with his diet. It is also a good idea to have a chat with them beforehand if your dog is very overweight and has a lot to lose. Take a photo of him from above and from the side before you start. At the end of the three to four days, check the dog over as described above and ask yourself if he is still fat. If you think he has improved a little but needs to slim down a bit further, keep going for another three to four days then review the situation. Compare the photo you took a week ago and you should see some improvement. You may need to increase his food slightly in order to maintain his new slim figure and ensure he does not get thin. If the dog is not losing weight after a couple of weeks on two-thirds of his previous food allowance, you may need to cut his food down even further. Why might a dog be underweight or undernourished: Picky eater If your pup is a picky eater , it may be hard to get them to eat enough to maintain a healthy weight. If you are feeding your dog dry food you might want to try topping the kibble with wet or fresh food. Some pups prefer beef, while others like turkey or lamb. For sensitive stomachs, the chicken formula might work best. To enhance the flavor of whichever food you pick, you can always add some homemade bone broth to the mix. Stress Like in people who are chronically stressed, dogs who deal with chronic stressors may lose a lot of weight. To help correct this, you will want to help your pup manage their stress. This might be easier said than done. The first step is to figure out what is stressing out your pup. It could be a change in schedule, too many people around or even something outside that is bothering them like a squirrel, bird or construction they see and hear. If you are using punitive training methods like sharp corrections or an e-collar that could be another reason your pup is feeling stressed. Consider working with your vet or a trainer to help you help your pup with their stress. Illness Weight loss or loss of appetite can be symptoms or side effects of many illnesses including cancer. If your pup has a tumor in their esophagus, lungs or stomach, they may have trouble eating or keeping weight on. This is especially true if the lack of appetite and weight loss is accompanied by other symptoms like fever or vomiting. Old age Even if your pup is not sick, age-related issues could prevent your pup from putting on much-needed weight. If your pup is having trouble chewing due to oral pain or tooth decay it may be harder for them to eat enough to gain weight. You may wish to consider giving them food that is wet, fresh or specially formulated for older pups to help them maintain their weight and get adequate nutrition. Found as a stray or rescued from cruelty If you have recently rescued a pup through a shelter or rescue group and your new dog was found as a stray or removed from abuse or neglect, your dog may be severely underweight or malnourished. You will want to get as much information as you can from any doctors who worked with your pup before you adopted. Then you will want to work with your vet to set up a plan to get your pup back to good health. It may take time and patience. Freshly cooked, delivered to your door! Feed My Pup It is important that you get your dog to a healthy weight. Being overweight or underweight can cause health issues or even make your dog sick. A dog who enjoys a healthy diet will have the energy to run, play and bring joy to all around them. The Ollie blog is devoted to helping pet parents lead healthier lives with their pups. If you want to learn more about our fresh, human-grade food, check out MyOllie.

Reserve your new puppy now! Experienced Breeders We are a small boxer breeding family from rural Pennsylvania. All of our boxers are house pets who receive attention and love daily. They are vetted regularly and health tested. We do not have kennels or an outdoor facility of any kind. Each and every puppy is raised with our family, in our home. All of our boxers receive daily exercise and training. We begin potty and crate training at 4 weeks of age, so when they go to their forever homes, training has already begun!! Supreme, Respectable Lines We have a wide variety of registrations to suit our needs. We are known for our brand new line of Merle Boxers, as well. With each litter we will clearly state the registration, health and bloodlines. Our dogs are up to date on their vaccinations and our pups will be too! All of our dogs are on a diet of PawTree. We believe a high quality diet is essential for raising healthy dogs and puppies. Click on the link below to get started!! How about an emotional support dog or an athletic dog to run and bike with? A boxer can do it all! They have been used for hunting, tracking, messengers, guarding, pulling, and so much more!! Boxer puppies are best known for being amazing family dogs, super great personalities and very affectionate. They love to cuddle and play and can be gentle, and be protective companions for the whole family. Photo Gallery. Officially, there is only a single type of Boxer dog recognized by major kennel clubs. However, fanciers and breeders have set the distinctions between Boxer dogs bred in different countries. The differences between the types of Boxer dogs in each region are heavily dependent on preferences. Breeders from each location have been cultivating specific characteristics or traits that they want the breed to exhibit. International kennel organizations also contributed to their variation as they prioritize the characteristics of a certain region over the other. Among the three types of Boxers, this is the second variant that has been merited as a standard in by The Kennel Club KC , one of the oldest canine organizations in the world. This substantiates why the UK standard leans more to the characteristic of this Boxer type. One of the defining characteristics of UK Boxers is their small feet, high knuckles, and slender legs which give them a more elegant look. It is considered to be the smallest and slimmest among the three. Nonetheless, the masculine physique which is the core trait of Boxers is still evident. Its slender body also provides more room for agility and precision in moving. It is also expected for UK Boxers to be biddable, calm, fearless, and self-assured. Oddly enough, the standard for this type of Boxer was only established after the two other Boxer types were standardized. Among the three, the German Boxer remains to be the more robust and largest type in terms of muscle mass and bone structure. Their physique has a more defined masculine figure with longer and stronger legs. These traditional Boxer features are probably retained through time since most German Boxers are still bred for their natural talents in herding and hunting. Another key characteristic of German Boxers is that they have a shorter snout compared to American Boxers but wider than the UK Boxers. According to most Boxer breeders, German Boxers are calmer and easier to train compared to the other types of Boxers. The traits and characteristics of the American Boxer were officially acknowledged in by the American Kennel Club. The most defining trait of this Boxer type lies in its coat. An American Boxer has a smooth, tight, and shiny coat that has no wrinkles. With this unique trait, it would be easy to distinguish an American Boxer among other variants. Boxer fanciers claim that American Boxers have a more elegant and balanced look. The reason could be because most American Boxers are bred to be show dogs or champions of conformation events. When it comes to temperament and behavior, the American Boxers are said to be playful yet constrained, patient, and stoic towards family members — especially with children. Also, they are said to be the most energetic Boxer among all types. If you have been searching about Boxers, you might have also heard about black Boxers although there are none in reality. Let me explain to you in this section the different coat colors and markings that Boxer dogs have. Fawn Boxer Dog Fawn coat color can exhibit a range of hues, including shades of yellow, tan, red, and mahogany. It is one of the two standard coat colors recognized by kennel clubs and possibly the most iconic. Too much white on the coat is considered a fault. The common markings for fawn Boxers are white flash and a black mask. The black mask refers to a black muzzle that can also be seen on German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois. Brindle Boxer Dog Brindle is not a color but a pattern. This is characterized by the presence of streaks of irregular and darker color against the light color background of the coat. For Boxers, the background is usually a color ranging from fawn to deep red. The appearance of the brindle coat will vary depending on the thickness and thinness of the color strips. Some may look like almost solid fawns while some may have more defined patterns in their body. Depending on the shade of the brindle, a Boxer dog may be called a light brindle, golden brindle, fawn brindle, red brindle, or mahogany brindle. The concentration of brindle patterns in Boxers can also be classified into three: tiger brindle, reverse brindle, and seal brindle. The streaks of irregular darker hair patterns are spread across a light background. On the other hand, reverse brindle dogs have strips of irregular lighter color against a darker color background. They differ from a seal brindle Boxer who sports a heavy concentration of dark streaks on their coat. However, for the record, there is no such thing as black Boxer dogs in reality. Purebred Boxer dogs do not carry the black color gene so it is impossible for them to have a black base. Boxers can only either be fawn to mahogany , brindle, or white. The black Boxer dogs that are advertised are brindle in nature. Remember the seal brindle that I mentioned earlier? When the streaks of the darker color patterns are too tight that they seal or shut the light background off, the coat appears to be solid black. In other words, the black coloration is nothing but an illusion. Worst, due to the hoaxes about white Boxers, they were even culled back then. Contrary to popular belief, white Boxers are not albino. Albinism occurs when a dog lacks pigmentation on its body. However, that is not the case for white Boxers. Similar to seal, the white coat for Boxers is produced due to an unusual patterning in the body. In short, they just have large white patches. White Boxers are either fawn or brindle with a large area covered with white markings. Boxers with this coat color typically do not have other markings in their body including a black mask. Those with patches of other colors in their body patches on the eyes, black mask, ears, back are called Check Boxers and are considered to be particolored. Boxers that have more than a third of white color in their coat or are all white are disqualified on conformation shows. The good news is that the AKC now recognizes the white coat color but is still considered to be non-standard. White Boxers are allowed to have limited AKC registration but are prohibited from being used on breeding. Knowing the type of Boxer you have would be easy if you bought from a reputable breeder. However, if circumstances do not allow the aforementioned ways, you can also try observing the unique characteristics of each type of Boxer. As discussed earlier, English or UK Boxers have long, slender legs which give them an elegant look. One of their defining characteristics is their high knuckles and small feet. If your dog sports this appearance, it is probably a UK Boxer. If your dog is large compared to other Boxers you see, there is a high tendency that it is a German Boxer. This type of Boxer is the biggest among the three. It has a dense bone and a larger and more masculine frame compared to the UK and American Boxer. Spotting if your Boxer is an American type would be easy. The defining trait of an American Boxer is its slick, smooth, shiny, tight coat. In terms of temperament, it would be hard to distinguish the three types of Boxers as they exhibit similar behaviors: confidence, patient, calm, and watchful. However, the German Boxer is said to be the calmest Boxer among the three. The American Boxer on the other hand is the most energetic type. If your Boxer sports extraordinary demeanor and composure unlike other Boxers, there is a great possibility that it is a German Boxer. Subsequently, if it acts like a bomb of energy, it is probably an American Boxer. Although all of the types of Boxers can join dog shows, some are more favored by specific kennel clubs. Conformation shows usually set guidelines following the standards provided by these organizations. Thus, Boxers that perfectly adhere to the standards are more favored than the others. If you want to join Boxer shows, the first thing you need to do is to identify the type of Boxer you own as well as the kennel club that sponsors the event. The prices of the three different types of Boxers have no significant differences. Boxer dogs with champion blood are more expensive than ordinary purebred Boxers. When it comes to coat color, the most expensive Boxer puppy would be the one with a seal brindle. As discussed earlier, a Boxer with this coat creates an illusion of a solid black color. Due to their rarity, Boxer dogs with seal brindle color are highly valued and priced. Places to Find Different Types of Boxer Dogs for Sale and Adoption In buying a Boxer dog, you should only transact with reputable breeders and avoid buying from backyard breeders and puppy mills. A professional Boxer breeder only aims to enhance and further the characteristics of the breed. Here are the places where you can find reputable and professional Boxer breeders. This online marketplace is regulated by the AKC itself so you have the assurance that all of the Boxer puppies sold are bred ethically and professionally. Most of the advertised Boxers in this marketplace came from the bloodlines of American Boxers. They have a acre facility dedicated to breeding German and UK Boxer dogs. This breeder is interested in breeding German Boxers that is why all of the dogs in their facility have German pedigrees. Unfortunately, a great number of Boxer dogs also end up in rescue centers. If you are eyeing to adopt one, here are the places where you can apply: American Boxer Club Rescue Directory — The parent organization of Boxer clubs in America has a complete list of the numerous Boxer rescue organizations across the country. There are dedicated shelters for each state and region of the US. Adopt-a-Pet — This is an online pet database that is dedicated to rehoming Boxer dogs. There are hundreds of Boxers posted on their sites every day that are available for adoption. It is affiliated with over 12, pet shelters across the US and Canada. All types of Boxer dogs English, German, and American are pretty common. In fact, kennel clubs do not consider these types as exactly legit. The terms American, UK, and German Boxer dogs are mostly used by breeders residing in a certain location. The boat only tips in terms of coat color. Contrary to popular belief that white is the rarest color for Boxers, seal brindle Boxers are the real gems. The tight patterns of a dark streak of hairs give an illusion of solid black coat color. Due to their rarity, they are also considered to be more expensive compared to other colors. What Is a European Boxer Dog? A European Boxer dog is another term used to refer to German Boxers. They are more masculine and have larger body frames. To be fair, all Boxer dogs are equally good. However, there are unique traits evident to each type of Boxer dog. The physique of a German Boxer dog is more robust than the other types, giving it an impression of a more reliable guardian. On the other hand, the unique features of American Boxer shiny tight coat and UK Boxer high knuckles and slender feet give them a more elegant look. If you are after a sport or a working dog, German Boxers would be preferable. On the other hand, if you would like to join conformation events, the American or UK Boxer will be your go-to. In addition, you should also consider your region as judges favor a certain type of Boxer depending on their origin. For the behavior and temperament, all three are lively yet calm, easily trained, and self-composed. However, breeders and owners testify that American Boxers are more energetic compared to the other types of Boxers. Your preference and lifestyle will be your criteria in choosing which Boxer matches you. Aside from their slight differences in size and appearance, they are all Boxer dogs that exhibit elegance and vigor. Their temperament and behavior will heavily depend on the environment they are raised in and the training they received. In terms of Boxer types according to coat colors, you should carefully weigh your options and refer to what the standard says. If you aspire to enter show events, you should not choose a Boxer puppy that is white or has white patches that cover more than a third of its body as such traits are considered faults. You should take note that a Boxer is not a dog for beginners. It is a breed that requires proper training and attention. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. Can a boxer be a merle? Can a boxer dog be a merle? Merle is a coat color pattern that results from a dominant gene found in some breeds, such as Australian Shepherds, Collies, and Great Danes. However, Boxers typically have a short and smooth coat that can come in various shades of fawn or brindle, but not merle. A merle also known as dappling pattern is an inherited trait that produces patches of light and dark pigment within the coat. The merle gene can also produce blue eyes or pink noses and paw pads in dogs where those characteristics would typically be dark. Purebred boxer dogs do not have ancestors that have the merle gene, so purebred merle Boxers do not exist. Can you breed a German Boxer Merle? Merle Breeding Merle Boxer breeding is somehow an arguable norm. Breeding was strictly prohibited even though your Merle Boxers are physically fit. On account of increased possibility of health ailments deliberate Merle Boxer breeding was avoided. Can boxer dogs with merle colors be registered with the Kennel Club? Kennel Clubs worldwide do not register merle boxers. Merle boxers are of dubious origin. Are Merle Boxer unhealthy? Marble boxer puppies are born by mating a merle dog with a non-merle dog or from the mating of two merle dogs. Boxer puppies born from two merle parents may be born deaf or with abnormal and possibly nonfunctioning eyes. Heterochromia iridis a difference in color of the iris in the two eyes, or two different colors within one iris has also been associated with merle coloring, and is a disqualification for boxers. Blindness and deafness are most common but many dogs suffer terrible deformities and malfunctions of their whole systems. Our advice to anyone thinking about investing in a rare colored Boxer is to be concerned mainly with the health of the dog rather than the shade and to think about the standing and integrity of the breeder. Average Boxer life expectancy is an average of about 12 years. You can reasonably expect a merle Boxer to also experience a similar range of years, unless it is a double merle, which means that its lifespan will likely be cut in half. Does the merle color appear naturally in the German boxer breed? The question of whether or not merle boxers appear naturally rather than as the result of the introduction of specific genes from other dog breeds that carry the merle markers is one that is the cause of some argument; many merle boxer breeders will argue strongly that the color can and does occur naturally within their breed lines. Whilst genetic mutations such as those that lead to new or unusual colours and other traits can and do occur naturally in purebred breed lines of dogs of all sorts, this is very rare. Even if this has theoretically happened at some point in the past within German boxers and resulted in a merle being born and there is no evidence to suggest that it has this type of spontaneous genetic mutation does not occur often enough to result in the natural development of merle strains within the wider German boxer breed in significant numbers. The Kennel Club and formal German boxer breed organizations that prioritise breeding for health and breed improvement state that merle is not a naturally occurring colour within the breed, and that it cannot be present in true dogs of the breed without being introduced to the bloodline by means of outcrossing. Merle German boxers are produced as a result of selective breeding to achieve this uncommon color, and the merle color is not one that is considered to be a naturally occurring phenomenon within the breed. Merle color is a brindle color in a boxer dog? Does merle look like brindle on Boxers? No, the Merle color is not a brindle color in Boxer dogs. Merle is a distinct coat pattern and coloration found in various breeds, but it is not a recognized or standard color in Boxers. Merle is a coat pattern characterized by a patchwork or marbled effect with lighter and darker spots or patches. Brindle is a coat pattern characterized by streaks or stripes of dark color usually black or dark brown on a lighter background. In Boxers, brindle is a recognized and common color. It creates a unique and attractive appearance, with a base color of fawn and dark stripes overlaying it. Merle is not the same as brindle. A merle boxer is a dog who looks like a boxer, acts like a boxer, but has a cacophony of colors on its coat. We believe the boxers are simply amazing. Related posts:.

Why Is My Dog Shaking? Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, but when they start shaking, it can be a cause for concern for pet owners. Shaking in dogs can be a sign of various issues, from dog anxiety and dog fear to dog medical conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of a dog shaking and what pet owners can do to identify and treat the problem. We will also offer tips for preventing dog shaking and ensuring.By doing regular grooming at home, you can help your dog look its best between visits to the groomer. You also get to bond more closely and build stronger trust with your dog. Routine grooming sessions will keep your dog clean and feeling fresh, but it will also.Their personality is lively, their nature fun-loving, and their disposition affectionate. As even-tempered, sweet, and playful dogs, Pugs make wonderful playmates for kids of all ages and lovely companion pets for couples, singles, and seniors. These little joy bringers love to cuddle and are generous with their Pug love. When it comes to their family, Pugs attach like magnets. They are known to happily shadow their humans in every activity and are just as happy lazing on the couch all day as they are going for a long evening stroll around the neighborhood. House-trained, Story Hi! My name is Churro! I love to play outside with my foster siblings. I act like I'm the boss of the pack, but I get along with everyone big and small! I love cuddles from my foster mama! I'm crate trained, and never had an accident inside my crate! Sometimes, when foster Mom picks me up I tend to go into statue mode and I play freeze! She gives me kisses and I love those so much! If you choose me, I promise I'll love you forever! Ruff Ruff! Please email: priya threelittlepittiesrescue. Brought by USDA licensed semi-truck transport. Pick up day is unforgettable! Our dogs travel in style in our big green truck, equipped with air conditioning for comfort, two drivers, and 3 onboard attendants providing 24 hour care. Three Little Pitties wants to set you and your new pet up for success! In addition to a fully vetted furbaby, you also receive many other additional perks such as a 30 day trial of pet insurance with Trupanion must register within 24 hours of first vet appt. The stray and animal overpopulation in the Greater Houston area is one of the highest in the nation. Statistics show that there are over 1 million homeless animals in this region alone! Three Little Pitties Rescue is a nonprofit dog and cat rescue that partners with the community to make a difference. Our mission is to reduce the homeless pet population through community outreach, free spay and neuter services, and saving all breeds of dogs and cats from the streets or animal shelters that oftentimes have no choice but to euthanize animals for space. We prepare them for adoption by properly vetting and providing individualized care through our incredible behavior program that consists of socialization and leash training for all animals that enter our adoption program, prior to matching them with loving families who will treasure them for the rest of their lives. They are rescue dogs and will require continued training efforts once adopted, but will be well on their way to being the best dogs that they can be! Three Little Pitties Rescue just celebrated our 5 year anniversary! Over the course of this time, we have been very fortunate for so much growth, allowing us to further connect with the community and save many lives. Through the combined efforts of all of our hardworking staff and volunteers, we have placed over 11, very lucky dogs and cats into amazing homes! By adopting from us, you save TWO lives! The pet you adopt, and you create an opportunity for another animal to be brought into our rescue program. Together, we can be heroes. Follow along on our rescue journey through the links below!

Bernedoodle Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people, be held by them, and generally prefer the company of humans over other dogs. Bernedoodles are a very adaptable breed which is a very good choice for novice owners. They are generally easier than most breeds, and they take to training better and are very easygoing. They are also resilient enough to bounce back from most rearing mistakes, but they need consistency if you want your Bernedoodle to become a well-mannered member of your family. They can at times be sensitive dogs, and they have a strong desire to please their people. They do not do well with aggressive, harsh training. They do best with positive reinforcement and reward-based training. Some of our Bernedoodles will let a stern reprimand roll off their backs, while others take even a dirty look to heart. Some of our Bernedoodles even have tears when they know they disappointed us. It is amazing to see how much they are like humans. It is always better to get the right temperament puppy for your family over color or gender. A pretty face will not matter much if you and your puppy do not work well together. Bernedoodles love to be with their families, and they don't love being left alone for extremely long periods of time. Our Bernedoodle pouts when she doesn't get to go with us. She will go to the truck and try and jump in before we can tell her to stay home. They love everyone, and this is not a breed that tends to be aloof or only bonds with one person and is indifferent to others. They shower everyone they meet with affectionate, sloppy kisses, and they expect lots of belly rubs in return. Our Bernedoodle puppies are raised around the clock with lots of people coming and going. We have a large family. They are extremely comfortable with people, and that is why they bond so easy. Stranger-friendly dogs will greet guests with a wagging tail and a nuzzle. Our puppies are exposed to lots of different types, ages, sizes and shapes of people which means that they will be friendlier to strangers as they grow up. This is why they make such wonderful therapy, service, companion and facility dogs. They are very kid-friendly and gentle with children and sturdy enough to handle heavy-handed pats and hugs. Please keep in mind that all dogs are individuals, and while we can't every guarantee how any puppy or dog will behave, these are generalizations based on our past experiences. All puppies have strong jaws, sharp pointy teeth, and may bite in stressful circumstances. We advise that young children and dogs should always be supervised by an adult. When looking for a Bernedoodle temperament and health should be your main concern. In our program we do the volhard testing on every puppy before we allow families to pick their puppy. PAT uses a scoring system from and consists of ten tests. The tests are done consecutively. Each test is scored separately, and interpreted on its own merits. The scores are not averaged, and there are no winners or losers. The entire purpose is to select the right puppy for the right home. The tests are as follows: 1. Social Attraction - degree of social attraction to people, confidence or dependence. Following - willingness to follow a person. Restraint - degree of dominant or submissive tendency, and ease of handling in difficult situations. Social Dominance - degree of acceptance of social dominance by a person. Elevation - degree of accepting dominance while in a position of no control, such as at the veterinarian or groomer. Retrieving - degree of willingness to do something for you. Together with Social Attraction and Following a key indicator for ease or difficulty in training. Touch Sensitivity - degree of sensitivity to touch and a key indicator to the type of training equipment required. Sound Sensitivity - degree of sensitivity to sound, such as loud noises or thunderstorms. Sight Sensitivity - degree of response to a moving object, such as chasing bicycles, children or squirrels. Stability - degree of startle response to a strange object. During the testing make a note of the heart rate of the pup, which is an indication of how it deals with stress, as well as its energy level. Puppies come with high, medium or low energy levels. You have to decide for yourself, which suits your life style. Dogs with high energy levels need a great deal of exercise, and will get into mischief if this energy is not channeled into the right direction. We incorporated this method in our Bernedoodle program in and love the results we are seeing. We have several past service and therapy Bernedoodles. Since we started we have been donating puppies every year to families in need. If you know a family that will benefit by having a Bernedoodle in their family please contact me directly. Can Bernedoodles Tolerate cold and warm climates? They tolerate both cold and hot weather very similar to humans. They have very nice coats as well as an undercoat. They usually have an ample amount of body fat, and they love colder weather and can tolerate warmer weather. They will need to stay indoors with you on warm or humid days, and you'll need to be extra cautious about exercising your doodle in the heat. They love swimming and retrieving and are very agile for a limited amount of times. They go hard quickly and they fizzle out just as fast. It's actually very funny to watch. A good rule of thumb for being in a hotter climate is if you are hot than they are hot. They can handle much colder weather than you or I and most seem to think they are snow dogs if given the change to romp in the snow. Are Bernedoodles good watch dogs? This hybrid is excellent with kids of all ages, and is gentle enough for interaction with even the youngest children in the family. Because of their friendly, gentle natures, Bernedoodles thrive as service and therapy dogs. Their loyalty, protectiveness, and affability make them an ideal partner for people with disabilities. Bernedoodles are not known to be noisy, and in fact, they bark infrequently. What is The Bernedoodles Temperament Like? Utah Bernedoodles. Puppies nip, bite and chew. This is normal and expected and can be managed until they naturally outgrow it, usually around months of age and almost always by 7 months when their adult teeth are in and their gums have adjusted. And while some breeds like Australian Shepherds are known for communicating with their mouth, puppy nipping and mouthing is something all puppies do. Prey drive is the genetic instinct many dogs have to chase things that move. Dogs with more prey drive are the ones that really enjoy chasing balls; toys and sometimes even kids. To understand how to deter a puppy from play-biting or nipping you must first understand why a pup is engaging in this behavior. Why Puppies Bite: Puppies bite because that is their method of discovering and interacting with you and the world around them. Puppy biting begins with littermates. When puppies are about 4 weeks old they begin to play with their littermates. This play involves physical activity games; they push each other around and bite one another on the ear, head or any part accessible. .They straddle, dominate and chase one another in games that resemble chasing prey. This is not early aggression, it is a game of pack behavior. Puppies need to learn how to live with their new human pack members and it's the humans who need to educate them. This begins with the breeder who interacts with them and helps teach them a soft bite and redirects them as needed, but when puppies change environments and enter the home of their new family, they sometimes act exactly like they did with their littermates. They bite, chew-on the new family members and chase them, just as they did with their littermates. They need to learn this next family environment is different from their pack and requires a different type of play. This is where trouble starts with new pet owners. Puppies think they are playing with new friends and humans think the puppy is being aggressive. So What To Do? Expected or not, puppy teeth are very sharp little pointy things that HURT. They can unintentionally draw blood. They can cut fingers and ankles if they latch on and you jerk your hand or leg away. If you have an elderly person in the home with fragile skin, have them wear thin gloves when interacting with the puppy at first. So we know we need to teach the puppy that biting us is not acceptable behavior. We need to show the puppy an alternative behavior that satisfies their drive to bite. Read on below for tips how to start teaching this. Exercise: The more exercise your puppy gets the less energy they have for biting. Puppies need physical and mental stimulation and having enough of both will alleviate a lot of behavior problems. Puppies should not be in a crate for more than 3 hours when they are young. Doing so, increases frustration and over-excitement when out of the crate, resulting in a puppy more inclined to bite inappropriately. Take your pup outside every hour or so for potty breaks and for a couple of short walks a day. A general rule of thumb for a puppy is about 5 minutes of exercise per month of age, 2x a day. So your 3 month old puppy should be exercised for 15 minutes twice a day. For the first year, jogging with your puppy is not recommended as this is detrimental to their developing joints. Yelping: When littermates play with one another and one gets bitten too hard it yelps. This yelping is their way to communicate that the play biting is too rough. If the pup lets go then you can praise and gently pet them. Give a food treat or a high value toy to play with. And remember to be calm which will encourage calm in your puppy. Praise a puppy for naturally calm behaviors like sitting and pet them on their chest not around the head or mouth which will encourage them to be mouthy. Be prepared to give them the toy if they start chewing on hands or ankles. Use the food treats to trade for the toy when you want it back. You can redirect the puppy by either tossing a toy a foot or two not too far away from you or move it around in front of the pup in a manner that builds interest. You will learn through experience how to redirect your puppy off of you and onto the toy. Once you get a pup to redirect onto a toy you are on the road towards teaching that puppy that there are more interesting prey items than your hands and legs. It can save your puppy from eating those grapes that a child just dropped on the floor. In the case of a Therapy or Service Dog, it can keep them from eating a pill found on a hospital floor. And a puppy that can restrain from grabbing a treat in your hand or from the floor is more likely to leave your hand alone when you ask. Place a treat in your hand so your puppy sees it and then make a fist to prevent your puppy from eating it. Your puppy will try to sniff, lick, paw at and possibly bite at your hand to get to the treat. Once they have this, increase the difficulty level by showing them the treat and later putting it on the ground just under your foot so you can quickly block it if they get too close. Also remember to put the original treat away and reward with a different one. Eventually, switch to socks, toys etc. Time Out: Sometimes puppies are over-stimulated and sometimes they are just overly tired. You can pick them up in the football hold mouth facing away from you for an off the ground time out, or if necessary give them a longer time out by gently placing them in a playpen. Supervise all play with the kids and make sure they are not interacting with you or your children when they are hungry or over stimulated. They are likely already uncomfortable as their adult teeth come in, painfully pushing their way through their gums. Soothe them like you would an infant by giving them frozen toys to teethe on. And ensure they have their quiet place for plenty of puppy required snoozing. Reminders: Remember that your puppy is just a baby. Remember that old advice to bite their ear if they bite you…totally wrong. You will break that bond and trust you have been working on by resorting to punishment as your form of correction. Do not automatically label your puppy as aggressive or vicious. They need about 20 hours of sleep, in a quiet place of peace and safety. Sometimes it is the family or kids who are inadvertently sending the puppy into overdrive. We know their teeth are sharp and can hurt. Prepare your kids before the puppy comes home. Teach them to never dangle a toy above the puppy who will then inadvertantly leap up with their best tool to grab it…their mouth. Supervise, have appropriate items for redirecting and intervene when necessary. And consider thin cotton gloves for kids or older family members. Maybe have them wear long sleeves and pants for a while. Try not to be frustrated and end training sessions on a positive note. When you are frustrated, your pup will likely feel it and become frustrated also. Doodles are very smart and intuitive and have a keen aility to sense our emotions. Usually this is a good thing but not so much if your becoming irritated. So if you are getting overwhelmed and emotional, take your own timeout, a personal break before coming back at it. Teach the Leave It command. Truly this can be not only the most helpful tool for alleviating puppy biting but is an essential tool to have in your training toolbox! Keep on hand some indestructable toys with different textures and densities to satisfy their chewing desire. In addition, I highly recommend some chews which help them burn off energy, satisfy hunger and a need to chew. Finally, puppies repeat what gets rewarded! You need to praise the successful moments. When your pup comes up to you without being nippy, be positive, praise and reward them. Zak George also has a good video to watch. Just click the link below. Tweet When two breeds are crossed, some of the advantageous and disadvantageous traits of the parent breeds are genetically passed on to the progeny. There are several reasons why Bernedoodles are a popular breed. They are beloved by many due to their adaptability, lovely curly coats, absurd habits, and clever temperament. Although the Bernedoodle is regarded as a fantastic substitute for the Labradoodle or Goldendoodle, they are not without problems. They Can Be Extremely Stubborn. The headstrong nature of the Bernedoodle is a well-known behavior among this breed. The Bernese Mountain Dog is renowned for its tendency toward stubbornness. Some of these obstinate traits may have been passed down to your Bernedoodle, but they will improve as your dog ages. The Bernese were bred to labor alone to guard the land and herd livestock. The Poodle is quite smart. When you mix the two, you get a dog that can occasionally be stubborn. They can also be raucous. Owners should never put off starting socializing and training because of this. Fortunately, with the right training, most of their intransigence disappears. Owners of Bernedoodles have remarked that even if their dogs were aware of commands, they would often choose not to carry them out, particularly if they dreaded doing something. But that does not imply that they cannot be trained. Although Bernedoodles adore their families and strive to please them, you must immediately set aside time to form a strong connection with your new puppy. With time and persistence, you will be rewarded with a lovely companion. Smart dogs also require ongoing mental engagement to prevent boredom. For example, a clever, bored dog who starts gnawing on things around the house can turn destructive. They Frequently Experience Separation Anxiety. The Bernadoodle is prone to separation anxiety, just like other doodle dogs. The Bernese was bred to be a working farm dog, but the Poodle was bred to be a hunting companion. Both kinds were developed to coexist with humans. Bernedoodles struggle in a home where there is no constant attention given to them. They are family-oriented dogs, after all. Bernedoodles require a home where someone is always present so they may receive care. For people who are employed full-time, Bernedoodles are not a good choice. It makes sense why Bernese always wanted to be nearby when they were also used as herding dogs. These canines function best when they are with a person most of the day. Bernedoodle owners frequently remark on how much their dogs follow them around. This is especially important for socialization, exercise, training, and overall excellent temperament while they are puppies. Start teaching them to spend time alone when they are still puppies for the simplest way to avoid separation anxiety. Start with a brief time, and extend it as they get older. These canines are not the kind that should be left alone all day. You are not the perfect candidate for this breed if your way of life requires you to be active all day. It can be difficult for people who spend a lot of time away from home because this breed frequently needs care from their owners. Instead, you should sign them up for dog boarding if necessary. They Take Time To Mature. The common Bernedoodle is known for maturing gradually. In actuality, larger dogs typically take longer to mature than smaller canines, and it can take a Bernedoodle up to two years to grow to full size and weight. However, not only their physical maturation is slow, but also their cerebral development. Owners of Berniedoodles report that their puppies settle down and put an end to their mischievous behavior between the ages of 2 and 3. This includes behaviors like counter-surfing and gnawing on prohibited goods. Additionally, housebreaking them might take more time. A Bernedoodle will settle down as it ages, just like any other dog, and then much more as it ages. The Bernedoodle is a fantastic option if you want a dog who behaves like a puppy for a long time. Miniature Bernedoodles will develop a bit more quickly. They Are Prone To Mischief. Although not all Bernedoodles behave this way, several owners have mentioned how they enjoy stealing items like socks and moving them from one location to another. It can be considered cute in some situations, but it can also be a serious issue in others—especially because they enjoy eating socks and other clothing. Although the larger doodle breeds have admittedly consumed objects made of material, the Bernadoodle seems to do it more frequently than any other doodle. They are known to surf the counter as well as steal things. Given their size, a normal Bernedoodle may easily reach the kitchen worktops or dining room table. They are not an ideal partner for someone who likes to leave things lying around due to this inclination. Highly Vocal Dogs. Bernedoodles enjoy speaking up. These dogs bark. A lot. Barking, whining, and grumping are examples of this. However, not everyone wants a canine that responds to commands or barks whenever someone passes by the house. If you leave your Bernedoodle alone for too long, it might start barking a lot. They are renowned for being highly sensitive and anxious. They become uneasy when left alone, which causes them to bark. They could feel safer if you play soothing music for them or keep the lights on. Placing the dog beside the window so it can gaze out is also a smart option. Your Bernedoodle may become bored and start barking if it discovers that it is idle. Give your Bernedoodle some amusing toys, or simply play with them. When they see their owner or anything else they enjoy, Bernedoodles are thrilled. Simply ignore the dog until it stops barking. Bernedoodles take their domain seriously and do not like having outsiders in it. They can lunge and bark when they see strangers or other new faces. They are also only worried about risks of any kind. Here, gradual socialization is crucial. As was previously mentioned, Bernedoodles take their territory seriously and may become aggressive when someone enters it, especially when they are eating or drinking. Due to their great sensitivity, Bernedoodles have problems handling loud, shocking stimuli. When they eat or drink, let them alone. Conclusion These dogs have kind, wise, and modest personalities. They get along well with children, which makes them excellent for families, but they also get along well with single owners. They frequently exhibit suspicion when interacting with strangers. To address this, however, early socializing skills development is very important. Bernedoodles do not exhibit aggressive traits, especially if they are raised in a favorable breeding environment. But because they need constant socialization from their humans, they are more likely to experience separation anxiety, which can result in other negative behaviors. For instance, chewing on objects around the house when their owners are gone is a typical symptom of separation anxiety. Bernedoodles get along well with other dogs in addition to people, but for this to happen, they often need to start socializing at a young age. If a Bernedoodle owner or breeder puts off socializing and training the dog for too long, the result could be a dog with no tolerance for other animals. Bernedoodles are known to be one of the less aggressive breeds of the entire doodle dog clan. If brought up in a calm and loving environment, the dog will show zero to little signs of aggression without any reason. Bernedoodle puppies: It is very unlikely for a Bernedoodle puppy to show any aggressive behavior. Usually they are very calm and gentle. Even in the case of puppies, there are usually no intentional signs of aggression in their behavior. Mini Bernedoodles: The level of aggression is very low in a mini Bernedoodle as well. It is very rare to find a mini Bernedoodle that will aggressively bite or come at you. If you are not aggressive towards a mini bernedoodle, they will not be aggressive towards you too. Are Bernedoodles calm? Bernedoodles are known and adored for their gentle and relaxed behavior. The Bernedoodles are very relaxed and composed when it comes to their general behavior. They are not known to lash out for no reason. On a good day, a bernedoodle will be the calmest pet you have. Bernedoodles are a mix of the Poodle and the Bernese Mountain breed. Poodles are naturally excited and very hyper. But a Bernese Mountain dog has a very gentle and laid-back personality. This personality trait is more dominant in the Bernedoodle. This is why Bernedoodles are very calm and relaxed naturally. When will my Bernedoodle calm down? A Bernedoodle puppy will show a little aggressive behavior at the time of teething. This only lasts for their growing up period. By the age of 12 months to 18 months you will find your bernedoodle calming down. After the reduction of their puppy teeth, you might find your bernedoodle act a bit calmer than usual. This is during their 6 to 8 months of age. However, this phase does not last for long. The pups will start getting active and a bit hyper after a month or so. In general, bernedoodles are very gentle and calm. Even during their aggressive period, they tend to show the signs not very often. It is very easy to handle them during that time. They calm down pretty easily and pretty fast. Are Bernedoodle puppies hyper? Though being calm and composed and not being hyper, the bernedoodle pup does have a lot of energy stored. They are very affectionate and playful pups. They tend to be relaxed, but they have their fair share of energy and excitement. A bernedoodle puppy is very affectionate and loving. They crave the attention of their owner and loved ones. So, if they feel neglected they might throw a little bit of a fit. And the puppies tend to get fussy if they are left alone for a long period of time. The bernedoodle puppy is not always hyper and fussy. In general, they are very much relaxed. Without something triggering them, they tend to stay in their relaxed state. How do you calm a Bernedoodle puppy? It is not very common for bernedoodle puppies to be so hyper and excited that they become a handful. But if you find your pup getting too hyper more often than usual, try to handle it gently and calmly- Be calm: Try to stay calm yourself. Do not get too hyper or excited yourself. This will only encourage your pup and show him that getting hyper works. Be calm and let your pup imitate you. Do not reciprocate the energy. Subtly and gently let them know that over excitement is not appreciated. Show love when he is calm: Show love and affection to your dog when it is in a relaxed and calm state. Do not excite them though. Gentle pats and small words of endearment will work just fine. Show them you appreciate their gentle behavior. Give enough exercise: Sometimes, pups get hyper if they have a lot of excess energy left in them. The way to deal with this is to give them enough exercise and playtime. Basically, you want to wear out the extra energy. Go for stimulations: If nothing works, go for a calming smell or stimulus for your pup. Smelling is one of the most important senses for any dog, especially pups. Use fragrances like lavender or vanilla or eucalyptus to calm your pup down. Use air fresheners of the mentioned scent. It can be common for pups to have an excited personality. Not all dogs are the same. But if you feel your pup getting hyper all of a sudden, try these things to not encourage the behavior and welcome the hyperactive routine. Do Bernedoodles bite a lot? During the teething period you will see your bernedoodle pup engage in a lot of biting and chewing activities. Other than this particular time, a bernedoodle does not bite a lot. The breed is not aggressive at all. So biting is not a very common behavior for them. The bernedoodle dog needs a lot of affection. If they feel any less attention towards them, they might start to show signs of aggression, thus the biting. But by nature, a bernedoodle is a chewer. They like to chew toys or solid things. If you encourage this behavior too much, they might develop a habit of biting unnecessarily as well. Why does my Bernedoodle bite so much? Teething period is when you will notice your dog biting and chewing aggressively. Your pup may start nipping and mouthing very suddenly. It is because they are growing and getting adjusted to their teeth. During this time there might be a lot of biting. However, if your adult bernedoodle starts biting, there might be some other reason. In most cases the reason is boredom. These affectionate loving breeds get irritated when they do not get enough attention and play time. When do Bernedoodles stop biting? For a pup, biting is a common phase. It usually starts to lessen around the age of 7 months. At around 4 months of age the pups start to lose their teeth and start chewing. This new sensation makes them chew and bite more. By the age of 7 months new teeth will start to grow. You can give them treats to stop them from biting the toys or other things around the house. You can also get chew toys. Do not encourage the biting, however. Otherwise, it will stick to their behavior permanently and cause a lot of trouble in future. What is the temperament of a Bernedoodle? The bernedoodle dog breed is a very calm and intelligent breed with just the right amount of fun and goofiness. They are very relaxed and tend to be great family dogs. They have a very calm nature and tend to be rather laid back. But they are fiercely loyal to their family and owner. The beautiful mix of a poodle and a Bernese Mountain dog have the energy and excitement of a poodle. At the same time, they have the calm temperament of the Bernese Mountain dog. Making them one of the most affectionate, loved and intelligent breeds in general. Are Bernedoodle puppies nippy? A bernedoodle pup is as laid back and chill as an adult. However after a few months it might be very obvious for your pup to be a bit hyper and playful. Not compared to any other breed, a bernedoodle is easier to train and maintain. The poodle breed is very much active and hyper. And as a mix of a poodle, a bernedoodle tends to be playful as well. But they are more on the relaxed side of their personality. Bernedoodles have a medium range of energy and they tend to be less on the nippy side. Are Bernedoodles friendly? Bernedoodles are known for their relaxed yet affectionate behavior. These dogs are very much drawn towards their owner. In most cases, they are friendly and show utmost loyalty. This is why they are a popular choice for family pets. Dogs usually reciprocate the affection they get. But the bernedoodle dogs are very much friendly on their own. They love being with their owners and playing with them. Bernedoodles are very laid back and relaxed dogs. The natural personality of the dog is calm and composed. It is very rare for the dog to show signs of aggression without any reason. This calmness of their behavior makes them very lovable and widely popular. Frequently Asked Questions:. These hybrids have been in existence since only the early s. The original breeder is Sherry Rupke, a Canadian who first bred her own Bernedoodles in Ontario in .In terms of personality, these dogs are loving, intelligent and modest. They get along well with kids, making them great for families, but they get along well with individual owners as well. Working on their socialization skills early on, however, can do a great job of combatting this. Bernedoodle puppies, however, can be a bit stubborn. They also can be rowdy. This is precisely the reason owners should never wait around to start socialization and training. Fortunately, most of their stubbornness goes away with some proper training. This breed often requires a lot of attention from their owners as well, which can be an issue for people who spend a lot of time away from home. But, regardless of what your schedule is, you should not leave a Bernedoodle on its own for extended periods of time. If necessary, you should enroll them at a dog boarding facility. Bernedoodle Training Tips These dogs do not typically develop aggressive behaviors, especially if they grow up in a healthy breeding environment. For example, a common sign of separation anxiety is chewing up items around the house when their owners are away. In addition to people, Bernedoodles also get along well with other dogs. However, this is typically contingent on them being socialized beginning at an early age. If an owner or breeder waits too long to socialize and train a Bernedoodle, he or she may end up with a dog that completely dislikes the presence of other animals. But, some small dog breeds bite just as often and more often in some cases. But, are there really dangerous dog breeds? There are certain traits and characteristics that can become aggression if a dog is abused, not properly socialized, is untrained, or is trained to be aggressive. However, all of this has to do with how a dog is raised and not their breed. Plus, there are other situations and factors that can cause a dog to bite. Understanding the causes of aggression in dogs can go a long way in understanding dog behavior, knowing what to look for as warning signs, and preventing dog bites. What Dogs are Dangerous? No dog breed is inherently dangerous. Any dog can become dangerous or aggressive if they are not properly socialized or trained or if they are specifically trained to be aggressive. Also, some of the ways dogs communicate are considered to be aggressive. For example, growling, barking, nipping, snapping, and biting are all considered aggressive behavior in dogs. There are several situations and reasons why a dog might be exhibiting aggressive behavior. Some of it is related to how they were raised, some of it is part of normal dog communication, and some of it is completely situational. Knowing the causes of aggression in dogs can help you figure out what is going on when a dog is displaying aggressive behavior. Some may display them more or less often depending on how they were raised, trained, socialized, and more. Knowing what is causing the aggression in a dog can help you correct the behavior either by yourself or with the help of a professional dog trainer. Here are some common causes of aggression in dogs: 1. Attention, even if it is considered negative by a human, sometimes still counts as a reward for a dog. A dog may react aggressively simply because they have been intentionally or accidentally trained into it. Intentionally Trained to Be Aggressive Dog owners who wish to have a protector and guard dog may actively train their dog to react with aggression towards strangers on their property. This is a poor decision and an owner who does this should not own a dog — period. The exceptions to this are military and police dogs who are trained by professionals to be aggressive in specific situations as their job. Outside of these specific situations and outside of the job, these dogs do not tend to be aggressive. Also, they are often only aggressive when given a specific command by their handler. This type of training should not be applied to a family pet and certainly not attempted by anyone other than a trained professional. Accidentally Trained to Be Aggressive Dogs often take their cues about how to react to a situation from their owners. This is especially true when they are young, experiencing new situations, and learning about the world. This often results in a poorly trained and poorly socialized dog who approaches new people, animals, and situations with suspicion and fear. These dogs may react with fear-based aggression in these situations, which can lead to bites. A puppy that is allowed to mouth on your hand or nip at fingers during playtime could grow into a dog that bites or nips at hands as an adult. A properly socialized dog approaches new situations and people with confidence and curiosity — not fear. Dogs that have been well-socialized have healthier psychological growth, better coping skills, and tend to exhibit healthier behaviors overall. There are many ways to socialize a puppy and enrolling in puppy training classes is one of them. On the other hand, poorly socialized dogs tend to approach new situations and people with anxiety and fear, which often leads to aggressive behavior. After all, if something feels like a threat to your dog, they will react accordingly. For them, this could simply be fearful behavior. For other dogs, it could be aggressive behavior. Protective Instincts This is also why socialization is especially important for dog breeds with protective instincts. They can also become extremely territorial and become hyper-vigilant over whatever they perceive as their territory. But, if that same dog were properly socialized, they might retain a watchful eye or have a healthy wariness for any signs of a threat, would only view actual threats as threats, and would not react aggressively to non-threat situations. They Are Afraid or Anxious One of the common causes of aggression in dogs is fear or anxiety. Usually, fear-based aggression only occurs when a dog feels in danger or when they need to defend themselves. This is why socialization and training early and often are important. A dog that is not well-socialized or trained often feels in danger with everything. The same is true for a dog that is anxious. In their anxiety, they may view situations, people, or things as a threat and react aggressively. Anxious dogs can sometimes appear as shy dogs. Starting socialization as early as possible is best, and there are tips to help your shy dog interact with other dogs and people. Depending on the severity of their shyness or anxiety, you may want to get the help of a professional dog trainer that specializes in socialization. The Dog is Guarding Resources Dogs may exhibit aggressive behavior when they are guarding resources. When dogs are exhibiting resource guarding behavior, they are aggressively possessive of what they cherish the most such as food, a treat, their bed, their favorite toy, their favorite human, etc. They may snap or growl at any person, another dog, or another animal that comes near their resource. If left unchecked, they may escalate to bites, full-out fighting, and more severe physical attacks. They May Be Displaying Social Aggression Social aggression refers to the growling and snapping that occurs within the established hierarchy in a pack system. With multiple dogs in the family, they will work to establish a pack hierarchy for who gets a certain napping spot, toy, etc. In some families, the pack hierarchy will shift. Mother dogs will also use growls, nips, and snaps to teach their puppies manners. Older dogs will often do the same with younger dogs. Dogs will also often display these behaviors to establish and assert boundaries with other dogs, other animals, and even their humans. If these initial warnings are ignored, social aggression can sometimes move from growling, snapping, or nipping to actual biting or fighting. The Dog Could Be Feeling Too Restrained By Their Leash Leash aggression refers to aggressive behavior that a dog displays when they are on their leash, especially when the dog is well-socialized, friendly, and approachable when they are not on their leash. Usually, this is caused by your dog feeling too restrained by their leash and results in these aggressive behaviors being directed at other dogs while they remain leashed. A bite in this instance, at least from your dog, is rare, but it can happen. First, you want to visit the vet to rule out any underlying medical cause and then you want to enlist the help of a professional dog trainer to help fix the behavior. They Could Be Frustrated When a dog is not able to get to something, they may become frustrated and take out that frustration on someone or something else. Another type of aggression related to frustration is when a usually well-mannered dog reacts snaps or bites as a last resort or in response to some sort of teasing. Oftentimes, the dog has growled, barked, or snapped multiple times as a warning. Then, when these warnings have been ignored and the behavior continues, the dog lashes out as a last resort to protect themselves. Avoiding contact with you or acting aggressively is sometimes one of the signs your dog is in pain. There are also some serious medical ailments, like brain tumors, thyroid disorders, neurological issues, and seizures, that can turn a sweet, friendly dog into an aggressive one. These are a few of the most common causes of aggression in dogs that you can use to better care for your dog and understand the reasons behind their behavior. This is also valuable insight that can hep you develop the right strategies to help calm a reactive dog.