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The Cocker Spaniel may also experience hip and elbow dysplasia like the Golden Retriever. This breed has a life expectancy of 12 — 15 years. Keep in mind that the following information is based on its parent breeds. These are all predictions that vary from case to case depending on genetic makeup. In terms of physical appearance, the Cocker Spaniel comes in a variety of coat colors, so the forever puppy may not always be golden. It could be a mix of blue, black, brown, and white. The ideal attributes a Golden Cocker Retriever should have is a medium-length coat, floppy ears, and a smaller build than the Golden Retriever. We can predict the height of the Golden Retriever Cocker Spaniel mix will range from 20 to 24 inches 51 — 61 cm. As we mentioned above its weight will range from 30 to 45 pounds 13 — 20 kg. The health concerns of a Golden Cocker Retriever are also based on its parents. Both the Golden Retriever and Cocker Spaniel are capable of experiencing seizures associated with epilepsy and hip and elbow dysplasia. On the Cocker Spaniel side, however, you have more serious illnesses to worry about like glaucoma and cancerous tumors. On the bright side, both parent breeds have a good life expectancy, so your Golden Cocker Retriever will live a long and happy life of at least 10 years! Want to see how this mix grows up? For owners who really want a teacup-sized Golden Cocker Retriever, there are some toy ones on the market. And then you mix it once again with Cocker Spaniel to get an even smaller dog. A dog with dwarfism may look cute and small but it causes them a lot of pain throughout their entire lives. The height of a standard Goldendoodle reaches 20 inches 50 cm. The weight ranges from 50 — 90 pounds 22 — 40 kg. Additionally, the coat of a Goldendoodle will be much curlier than the Golden Cocker Retriever thanks to its Poodle parent breed. Before buying one, consider if a Golden Cocker Retriever is your best match in the long run. How will this dog fit into your daily schedule and hobbies? Does This Mix Shed? Both parent breeds have long-haired coats that invite moderate to heavy shedding throughout the year. Do I Need A Backyard? Yes, yes, yes, yes, YES. Purebred Golden Retrievers sometimes need two sessions. A fenced backyard or a playpen is also essential to keep your Golden Cocker Retriever from wandering off. Both parent breeds have a long history of being hunting dogs with a strong prey-drive. If your Golden Cocker Retriever sees or smells a small animal in the distance, it will run as quickly as it can to track it down. Dogs are just fine. For example, any sign of stubbornness or independence can lead to harder training. Start training as early as possible as puppies are easier to handle than adults. The temperament of a Golden Cocker Retriever should be: Happy. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. They are not purebreds like their Golden Retriever or Cocker Spaniel parents. The mixed breed does shed, so aim to brush the coat daily if possible, being on the lookout for any potential mats. Golden Cocker Retrievers usually have no problems getting along with kids. This is a gentle and playful mixed breed that will happily become play buddies with your children This is not a dog who does well being left alone for long periods of the day. But digging into the background of their parent breeds can tell you a lot about where the dog comes from. Developed in Scotland, the Golden Retriever has always been renowned for their high intelligence and ability to take on agility and obedience-based tasks. When it comes to the Cocker Spaniel, this breed comes from Spain where they began as a hunting dog with a special expertise at tracking down and startling fowl. The Golden Cocker Retriever has become known as a designer dog breed, but many of them unfortunately end up in shelters. As is always the case with newer mixed dog breeds, exact size standards might vary. Most weigh in at 30 to 45 pounds and range in height from 20 to 24 inches. A total family dog, the mixed breed will quickly form loving bonds with the humans in their life—and will also very much want to be in on the act with any day-to-day tasks and activities. This is not a dog who does well being left alone for long periods of the day. Even better, at the end of a long day of healthy outdoor action, the dog will love to cuddle up together as you relax and recuperate on the couch. Golden Cocker Retrievers usually do great around children. Golden Cocker Retriever Health Golden Cocker Retrievers are generally considered to be healthy dogs; although, the breed can be predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Golden Retriever and Cocker Spaniel face. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. If you jog, bring the dog along! If you have access to a safe off-leash park, even better. If you have a safe fenced-in yard, add some interactive toys to the environment and let the breed explore and investigate. As with any dog who loves the outdoors, check that their nails are trimmed and in good shape, and examine the paw pads for any signs of damage. Doing this every two weeks should suffice. The coat is straight, medium in length, and usually described as being dense to the touch. The Golden Cocker Retriever does best in slightly warmer than usual weather. This is a gentle and playful mixed breed that will happily become play buddies with your children—just remember to make sure both parties are socialized correctly during the early days. In general, Golden Cocker Retrievers are fine around other household pets. But be sure the boundaries between the dog and existing household pets are laid down early. Ultimately, early socialization really pays off with this breed. Make sure to reward your Golden Cocker Retriever for good behavior and adhere to a proper training regimen when you bring them home to your family. However, you may want to try Golden Retriever or Cocker Spaniel breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Golden Cocker Retrievers borrow traits from both of their parents, normally with a medium length golden coat, floppy ears and a smaller stature than the Golden Retriever. Friendly, intelligent and energetic making a great family dog that will want to be involved in all your daily activities. They also go by the name Dakota Sport Retriever. Size: The Golden Cocker Retriever stands from 14 to 19 inches tall and can weigh anywhere between pounds, though the average weight is pounds. Coat: Considered a long haired breed but they do shed less than the average Golden Retriever. The most prominent colour is gold, but can come in all colours and patterns. Character: The Golden Cocker Retriever loves water and to play fetch. They are playful outdoors and calm while inside. This breed is very gentle and loving. Temperament: A soft-tempered breed, people-oriented and forms strong bonds with their owners. Care: Should be brushed on a weekly basis and bathed when needed. Their ears can be trimmed twice a year to avoid matting. Training: The Golden Cocker Retriever has a strong desire to please and is not difficult to train. Activity: Loves to play and should be exercised on a daily basis. Not only will you learn the skills you need to be successful, but your puppy will learn incredible manners and behaviors as well! Each puppy that comes from our kennel comes home with a beautiful Registration Certificate. Continuing this daily regimen is the easiest and best way to keep your pet on the path to perfect health! NuVet Plus is a lifetime product to help support their immune system and provide assistance to their optimal health. A strong immune system will protect them from environmental and food toxins such as back yard pesticides, hormones, germs from public places, and even toxic formaldehyde in furniture and carpeting. NuVet Plus is a full spectrum, immune system support supplement that contains over 30 different nutrient dense ingredients that well better equip puppies to get and stay healthy. She is already so comfortable here and so attached. She gets so excited every time she sees us. And she has such a sweet disposition Everything goes for her. She just rolls with it. She loves to play and has lots of playful energy when she chases behind a toy or plays tug of war. But she loves to cuddle too, and she can busy herself well too without complaint. Yesterday we left her home when we went on a walk and she never barked or whined and was fast asleep when we returned. She accepted her crate as if she had never known any other place to rest. She just crawls in there and rests when she is tired. And when she wakes up, she quietly plays until we take her out of the playpen. Her potty training is going well. A couple of accidents here and there, but most of the time we catch her before anything happens, and she always does her business right away when we put her on the grass patch we have on the patio. She is getting a treat when she does her business. So, she actually figured out that if she spares some pee and squats several times, she will get several treats. Only One treat for the first time, everything after does not get rewarded any more. Wow, I have never seen a puppy learning that fast. And loving to learn. Being really food driven helps. I could not think of a better quarantine buddy to brighten up our day. I think she will be an amazing therapy dog who brightens up the day if many more people. Oh, and did I mention she is absolutely beautiful? Thank you again for that gift, Michele. I hope you are all doing well and are coping with the many new puppies. Some stressful days ahead of you, I am sure. And you are the best puppy mom I have ever encountered. Lots of love to your whole beautiful family! Fuzzy, playful, and affectionate, this hybrid has a silly and active disposition. As a mixed breed, this pup comes from Golden Retriever and Cocker Spaniel parents. Their origins are unknown, but it is believed they came into existence in the last two decades. This makes them a new designer breed, so the information on them is very limited. That being said, you can learn a lot about this breed through their mom and pop. For example, the Golden Retriever originated in Scotland and is known for their high intelligence and agility. The Cocker Spaniel hails from Spain, and they were bred as hunting dogs. Both breeds are smart, friendly, and make great companions. The Golden Cocker Retriever has traits from both sides. Also known as the Dakota Sport Retriever or Cogol, this puppy has cute antics in spades. Like most young dogs, they are full of mischief and curiosity about the world around them. As mentioned, this hybrid is a new designer breed only coming into the mainstream in the last 20 years. Designer breeds became popular around the s, so anything newer is considered very young in the canine community. They have startling ancestors. They became a popular breed among nobility and hunters alike for this reason. Some of their facial features are consistent even if their coloring is different. The Golden Cocker Retriever will have brown eyes and a black nose. They are also limited in their fur color. As it currently stands, they are either black or brown. They are very affectionate and love to be part of the family. They need more space to stretch their legs and play. They enjoy games, agility courses, and other tasks they can learn. The Golden Cocker Retriever is alert but also docile. They will sound an alarm if there is anything suspicious going on, but they are not aggressive and unlikely to bite. As they are easy-going without any bossiness, this is a great breed for first-time owners. As a family orientated pup, the Cogol does not appreciate being left alone. They want to be included in all family activities whether it be going for a jog, heading to the post office, watching TV, or taking a shower. They will be happy to hop right in there with you! This will require a considerable amount of your time. This pooch has a needy streak, and they need a lot of attention. Otherwise, they can become destructive out of fear and loneliness. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are at home with large and boisterous people who are active and love having a four-legged friend around. They are also great for kids of all ages. They love the exuberance of children, and they will be ready to get down and dirty with them in the backyard. Games, tricks, and even wrestling matches are on the agenda. Due to their sensitive and sweet disposition, the Cogol is better at handling small kids than most canines. As they are devoted to their family, they will quickly take on the persona of a parent and follow behind the kids. This breed is also a good companion for a single-person home. Under these circumstances, it is better if you work from home or can take your pup with you. They are not going to tolerate long absences well. They are also likely to make friends at the local dog park. On the other hand, they have an alertness that simmers right below the radar. They are quick to recognize someone that is angry or a dog that is aggressive. Although they are not aggressive themselves, they can be protective of you. Something else to note is their hunting ancestors. The prey drive is not overly high, but they might engage in a small animal chase from time to time. This will usually be followed by a look that clearly states they were never going to hurt them…it was all in fun. As with most canines, socializing your Golden Cocker Retriever when they are puppies is essential to their well-rounded adult personality. This is typically not difficult as their friendly nature will take over. Before you hit the gas pedal, however, there are still a few other aspects of the Cogol you should be aware of before adopting this designer dog. Not to worry though, we have filled in the blanks on their general care requirements below. That being said, a canine that is on the high end of the energy scale should be fed a balanced diet that promotes their lifestyle. Meals should have plenty of protein to support their muscles , fat to keep their energy high, and fiber to help their digestion. They should also be given food that has antioxidants, probiotics, omega fatty acids, and other vitamins and minerals. You should aim for all-natural meals with low carbohydrates, sugar, salt, and artificial ingredients. Fillers and protein boosters are also not great. When picking out their snacks, you should go for products that are nutritious and healthy. Your Cogol should be given a few table scraps, but you can supplement their meals with good treats. Not only do they thoroughly enjoy them, but they help with training and will create a bond between the two of you, as well. They may recommend specific brands or formulas that will promote the overall well-being of your Golden Cocker Retriever. They will need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily that you can break up into two minute trips. The Cogol is a great companion if you are a walker, jogger, or runner. They also will follow you on bike rides , and they love to swim. Either way, they will need to get the excess energy out to be content. Besides the daily exercise, this pup also benefits from playtime, which they should also get plenty of each day. Games such as fetch, tug of war , and chase are great favorites. Tricks, training, and agility courses are also a great idea for this pet. As they are very intelligent, they do well with mental stimulation. One thing you should avoid, however, is leaving your pet alone in the backyard for a long time. They can become bored, sad, and destructive if they do not have the proper exercise. Lessons in obedience, behavior, and potty training are essential, plus socialization. Exposing your pup to different places, smells, and people is important. The Cogol is very sensitive and aware of their surroundings. They can easily become depressed or saddened if the atmosphere is constantly angry. That being said, this breed picks up on training lessons quickly. They are very intelligent and ready to please. Positive reinforcement is typically all that is needed to show them the way. You will also want to find a consistent schedule for lessons. This dog does well with repetition in conjunction with treats and praise. As part of their training, you also want to get your pet used to grooming activities. This pooch has a higher-than-average grooming schedule, so getting them used to these treatments will make things easier as they grow. This is due to its long, soft, and dense fur coat that will need to be consistently taken care of by brushing and bathing. They have a moderate amount of shed and a tendency to get tangles, so brushing them with a firm bristle brush daily is important. It is also recommended that they have a bath every six to eight weeks, although it is also recommended that they have professional grooming done every four to six weeks. Bathing a pup with this amount of fur can be difficult. It will keep them clean down to the skin, and because the fur is prone to damage, it helps protect the hair follicles. Beyond that, their care is pretty basic. You will need to clean their ears weekly checking for mites and wax. Their teeth should also be brushed daily , or as often as possible. Lastly, you will need to file their nails and check their paw pads for cracking and irritation. The Cogol can have some issues with their paws, so you should monitor them in order to catch an issue before it gets to a painful level. Filing their nails can be done on an as-needed basis. As a general rule, if you can hear them clicking on solid floors, the nails are too long. Below, we have outlined major and minor conditions your Golden Cocker Retriever could have throughout their lifetime. Minor Conditions The minor issues to be on the lookout for are weight gain, paw issues, and ear infections. Serious Conditions The serious issues this breed is prone to are Hip Dysplasia, Hypothyroidism, and Entropion Final Thoughts If you have an active family where someone is always ready for an outside adventure, the Golden Cocker Retriever is a good pet for you. They are sweet, playful, active, and loving. This pup is happy to just be part of the family, but they do need a lot of exercise and attention. If you are ready to devote the time to this breed, the Cogol will make a wonderful pet. As far as their care, this pooch is easy to train and has few diet restrictions. Their grooming takes some effort, but they are a dream to train and socialize. Overall, you will find an intelligent, happy, and affectionate pal that will be your fast friend forever if you adopt a Golden Cocker Retriever. See also:. This lovable and playful dog is the perfect family dog and brings joy to any home with their cute looks and adorable nature. Because the Golden Cocker Retriever is a crossbreed, it can be difficult to know exactly what kind of dog you are going to get — you never know what they will look like or what their temperament will really be. However, based on Golden Cocker Retrievers as we know them and taking a look at their parent breeds, we can make assumptions about this wonderful breed. Read on below to find out more about Golden Cocker Retrievers are whether they could be the right dog for you. Perfect for first time pet owners, the Golden Cocker Retriever is an active and intelligent dog, with both parents belonging to the sporting dog group classification. They are also known for being loyal and they love to play outside, too. Golden Retrievers originate from Scotland and were used as gun dogs to retrieve game that was shot down both on land and in water. Cocker Spaniels first came to the US on the Mayflower in the 17th century. They were registered in and the popularity of the Cocker Spaniel grew significantly during the s and s. The American Cocker Spaniel has a smaller prey-drive than the English Cocker Spaniel, which makes them better family pets. The origin of the Golden Cocker Retriever was not widely documented and it is thought that this breed could be a designer breed that was created in the later s and the early s. Characteristics Of The Golden Cocker Retriever As we mentioned above, because the Golden Cocker Retriever is a crossbreed, it can be difficult to know exactly what your pup might look like and what their temperament might be. However, we can guess based on past litters. Both of the parents — either a Golden Retriever or a Cocker Spaniel — can be the sire or the dam in this cross breed. This contributes to the varying size and appearance of many Golden Cocker Retrievers. Regardless of some of the finer details, this breed is known for being an intelligent and friendly breed. The litter size for a Golden Retriever mix can be anywhere between 4 to 12 puppies. This means that they are said to maintain the look of a puppy, even as they grow up. It can be difficult to know exactly when they reach their adult life, but it is estimated anywhere between months. Mental maturity can take up to three years. A Golden Cocker Retriever is normally smaller than a Golden Retriever and usually weighs around pounds and measures between inches. They are a medium sized breed and are broader than a Cocker Spaniel with a long, smooth coat, floppy ears and a head which is slightly bigger than a Spaniels. Coat The Golden Cocker Retriever coat is normally medium in length and is smooth. It will have some featured fringes around the legs, ears and stomach which will need to be brushed daily to prevent any matting. Some puppies inherit more genes from the Golden and therefore have a double coat, meaning the fur may be denser and require more thorough grooming. We will go into more detail about grooming your Golden Cocker Retriever dog later on. If the Cocker Spaniel parent is brown, black, white or merle, then this can be passed to the pup. Temperament The Golden Cocker Retriever is a loyal and loving dog and is the perfect companion. They have a natural playful instinct that makes them fun to be around, and they love to chase and run around. Both parents have a sporting background which means your Retriever will love to be outside playing with you. Because they are so friendly they can make the perfect playmate for older children, but know to gentle around younger children too. They will want to be with you at all times, so they are not the right pet to have if you are going to be out for hours at a time. They will do best in a busier household where they have people around for most of the day. Luckily, these dogs are easy to train and, most of the time, undesirable behaviors can be trained out of them. This can include barking as well as behaviors brought on by anxiety if they are left alone for too long. Lifespan The typical life expectancy of a Golden Cocker Retriever is normally between 11 to 14 years. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. Cataracts — you might suspect your dog has cataracts if they are constantly bumping into furniture. Cataracts can be cured with surgery. Hypothyroidism — this can be caused by a deficiency of the thyroid hormone and may produce signs that include infertility, obesity, mental dullness and lack of energy. It can be treated with medication. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA — this is an eye disorder that eventually causes blindness from the loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye. Regular vet checkups and keeping an eye on your dog will ensure you can catch any of these issues before they become untreatable. Daily Life We have covered what the temperament and the characteristics of the Golden Cocker Retriever are and how many of their traits depend on what they inherit from their parents. Now, we can take a look at what living with this dog is like. Luckily, no matter what features your Golden Retriever Cocker Spaniel hybrid inherits from their parents, daily life with them is pretty much the same. Of course, you should always check the back of the dog food packet to confirm how much you should be feeding them based on their exact weight. Try to feed your Golden Cocker Retriever high-quality dog food two times a day. If possible, you should try to put them on food that is formulated for medium to large dog breeds, again based on their weight. Hybrids When you take a golden retriever and mix it with a cocker spaniel, the outcome is a truly adorable golden cocker retriever, also known as a Dakota sport retriever or a cogol. These hybrid dogs are called forever puppies because they maintain a puppy-like look to them even when they are fully grown. The golden cocker retriever is a hybrid or designer dog intentionally created to combine the best qualities of the cocker spaniel and the golden retriever together. The golden cocker retriever maintains the look of the golden retriever in a smaller package with longer hair. The golden cocker retriever is an excellent family dog, provided you can meet its needs. Read on to find out if the golden cocker retriever is the dog for you. Parentage Of The Golden Cocker Retriever When mixing two breeds together, like the golden retriever and the cocker spaniel, there is no guarantee of exactly how each puppy will look and behave in every litter. Understanding the history and personality of both parent breeds will also give you an idea of how your golden cocker retriever will behave later on in life as it develops its personality as an adult. The Golden Retriever The golden retriever as we know it today, originated in Scotland in the mid to late s and early s. The golden retriever was bred to be a sporting dog with a soft mouth. Its job was to chase down prey, usually waterfowl, after the owner had shot one down. Once the dog located the prey, it would gently pick it up in its mouth and bring it back to the owner. The area in which they had to do the retrieving was often marshy, so the dogs were bred to have warm coats and be excellent swimmers. For a more detailed look at how the golden retriever came to be, check out our dedicated article on their history. Golden retrievers are highly loyal, dedicated, easily trainable, and loving dogs. It is important to note the golden retriever is also very high energy and requires a lot of mental and physical stimulation. The Cocker Spaniel Cocker spaniels originated in Europe as sporting and hunting dogs. They were used to flush out birds from bushes and low lying brush for the hunter to shoot them down. There are many different types of spaniels, but the cocker spaniel was so named because that specific breed specialized in hunting woodcocks. Cocker spaniels were popularized by the Disney movie Lady and the Tramp and U. The cocker spaniel is an easily trainable dog who loves spending time with the family in all activities. However, they are high energy pups who require a lot of time and effort from their owners in order to stay happy. The Golden Cocker Retriever The golden cocker retriever takes on the best of both breeds and looks a lot like a shrunken version of the golden retriever with the long floppy ears of the cocker spaniel. The golden cocker retriever is a very high energy dog and will require a lot of energy from you as well. The golden cocker retriever stands at 20 to 24 inches and weighs 30 to 45 pounds on average. This makes them a medium-sized dog. They are inquisitive dogs who love being involved with their humans and their environment. Golden cocker retrievers are great dogs to have if you have children. They love the company and energy small children bring to the home and will get along with them very well. The golden cocker retriever is an intelligent dog which will require mental as well as physical stimulation from you in order to be happy. Trainability Thanks to both of the parent dogs, the golden retriever and the cocker spaniel, the golden cocker retriever takes to training very well. They are intelligent dogs that enjoy the effort it takes to learn tricks and tasks. Training should be consistent and based on positive reinforcement as the golden cocker retriever takes harsh words and negative punishment to heart. Health Concerns Golden cocker retrievers are a mixed breed, which means they have a wider genetic pool to draw from. This means they are genetically healthier than either of their purebred parents. However, because the golden retriever and cocker spaniel share some common health concerns, they can appear in the golden cocker retriever too. Be on the lookout for: Hip dysplasia Entropion eyelid condition Hypothyroidism Taking your golden cocker retriever to the vet every year for a check up and their vaccines is incredibly important. Prevention is always better than treatment. Your vet can catch small issues developing in the early stages and provide preventative care before the problem becomes life threatening or painful for your dog. The golden cocker retriever seems like an ideal medium-sized dog for any family. However there are some care needs you need to consider to determine if this is the dog for you or not. The golden cocker retriever is an incredibly high-energy dog. They require a minimum of an hour of exercise a day, preferably split over two sessions, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Physical exercise can take the form of play sessions with you, walks, going to the dog park, swimming time, hikes, obedience training, and playing fetch. If you have trained your golden cocker retriever well, taking them to an off-leash dog park and allowing them to run around and explore all the different sights and smells is an excellent way to stimulate them. Golden cocker retrievers need mental stimulation during the day, which is separate from their physical exercise. Toys, slow feeders , lick mats , snuffle mats , and puzzle games are all excellent options to boost their mental stimulation. The golden cocker retriever has a beautiful coat that sheds a lot thanks to the golden retriever and cocker spaniel parents. They will need to be brushed every second or third day depending on the individual dog. If your golden cocker retriever loves swimming, their coat will need to be dried and brushed after every swim. There are two different kinds of cocker spaniel , the American and the English. Both kinds can be crossed with a golden retriever to make a golden cocker retriever. The biggest difference between the two cocker spaniels is their size. The American breeders focused on producing small, sleek companion cocker spaniels, while the English breeders focused on breeding larger cocker spaniels with longer legs. Therefore, the English cocker spaniel is taller and slightly broader than the American cocker spaniel. Parent Breed. Goldadors are very social, intelligent, easy to train and are an excellent family companion. Our Goldadors can be anywhere from lbs. Country Retrievers With the many requests for Country Retrievers also known as Comfort Retrievers or Golden Cockers , we spent time researching the cross over the past 2 years. This year, in , we are excited to introduce our first Country Retriever puppies! Country Retrievers are a smaller version of the Golden Retriever, with the combined friendliness, loyalty, and sweet temperaments of both breeds. Throw in a dash of the comical, playful spirit of the Cocker Spaniel, and the Comfort Retriever is lovingly referred to as the Forever Puppy. Golden Retriever The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular family pets. They are playful but gentle with children. They get along well with other pets, and are friendly to family and strangers alike. The intelligent Golden Retriever is very versatile. They excel in obedience training. Our Golden Retrievers can weigh between 55 — 75 pounds. Cocker Spaniel The Cocker Spaniel is a very gentle, easy-going, yet lively companion. Cocker Spaniels love their people families, love to snuggle, play together, and give a good laugh with their antics. They repay the loving they receive in multiples of loyalty and affection. Our Cocker Spaniels come in a variety of colours and can weigh from pounds. Genetics play an important role in the health and longevity of your puppy, but environmental factors play a greater role. Things like over and under stimulation, exercise, quality of food, home environment, etc… greatly affect the health and lifespan of your puppy. The quality of the nutrition your puppy receives directly affects his health, so we strongly recommend that your pup is fed top quality dog food. To protect each dog from negative breeding experiences and puppy mill conditions, the signing of a non-breeding contract is required. Our entire business is made to ensure that no dog is kept in unethical, inhumane conditions, and we are careful in screening potential puppy families to ensure each puppy goes to the best possible home. Follow Us. If you love the amazing personality of a Golden Retriever and the small size and loyalty of a Cocker Spaniel, you may love a Cocker Spaniel Golden Retriever mix. What do Golden Cocker Retrievers look like? These Golden Cocker Retrievers come in several sizes, colors and looks. They come in all the same coat colors as a normal Cocker Spaniel but commonly come in white, red, golden and tan. First generation cocker golden mix dogs have more floppy ears. When breeding a second and third generation, there is usually a higher percentage of Golden Retrievers in the mix. The golden retriever mixed with cocker spaniel puppies can often be referred to as "Miniature Golden Retrievers" or "Golden Minis". These puppies can look very much like a "Mini Golden Retriever" and have many of the same personality traits. When they are puppies you can see the Cocker Spaniel showing up in their eyes. They look almost angry, but it often fades with age. Here is a male Cocker Spaniel mix at 7 weeks old and again at 3 months old. The size depends on the parents of the puppies. In a first generation cocker spaniel golden retreiver mix you need to look at the size of the Golden Retriever used. The general rule of thumb is the puppies will be in between the sizes of both parents. However every now and again we see puppies that grow up to be bigger than both parents. To get a good idea of how much the puppies will weigh as a golden cocker retriever full grown we often use this weight chart predictor from thegoodypet. It has been the most accurate we have found to predict adult weight. Many people wonder if this mixed breed is a good family dog and easy to train. Yes, a Cocker Spaniel mix with Golden Retriever can make a great family pet. The Golden Cocker mix is a loyal and smart companion. They also are dogs that are easy to potty train. Cocker Spaniel Golden Retriever mix puppies tend to be food driven so we often train with kibble instead of treats. Issues with a Golden Cocker Retriever mix? The most common problem I see in the Cocker Spaniel Golden mix is some litters are more mouthy. They nip at anything moving which sometimes includes hands. Most are not, but it does happen every now and again. Remember that Cocker Spaniels were originally bred to be working dogs that kept livestock together by nipping at their heels. They also love to chase moving objects which is fantastic if you like playing fetch with your puppy but can scare children that don't know how to behave around a puppy. Two purebred parents will have more of a Cocker Spaniel look. Make sure to ask what they expect the full grown Golden Cocker Retriever to weigh. It will only be an estimate and there are no guarantees but it is good to get an idea. Also ask what kind of health testing was done on the parents of the litter. We normally have Cocker Golden Retriever mix puppies available or coming soon. Check out our puppies HERE or fill out the form below and we will get back to you. First Name.

NKC Jr. Little did I know what I was getting into, learning quickly that American Bulldogs can be a handful, to say the least. But nonetheless, Coot and I had a wonderful bond and shared an adventurous life together for 10 years before I lost him to cancer. From the start, Nashi immediately became part of the family, living in our home in the NC Mountains, surrounded by active adults and teenagers. We spent endless hours training and socializing her with people, taking her to various stores, festivals, hiking in the mountains, car rides, and dogs shows. We competed in our very first conformation show in , competing until we retired Nashi after she produced her first litter. We kept Boss and Domino from the litter, competing in the show ring once again with Domino. In , we produced our second litter from Domino, expanding our list of dogs with the addition of Wick. We love that the American Bulldog is the embodiment of loyalty and devotion. The perfect combination of a working dog, true guardian, powerful athlete and companion. They are very intelligent, courageous, goofy, sensitive and stubborn. We enjoy the breed because we can do everything we want with them; hike, swim, camp, hunt, the possibilities are endless. The American Bulldog isn't for everyone, they can be territorial and dog aggressive. As a puppy, one must be dedicated to training and build a good foundation, socialization and defining boundaries. Look no further than Hooch Jr. With his endearing resemblance to the iconic Hooch from the movies, Hooch Jr. His expressive eyes and that classic pitty smile will melt away your worries in an instant. But wait, there's more — Hooch Jr. It's like he's a master at tugging at your heartstrings with every glance. Hooch Jr. He thrives on human companionship and can't wait to become your new best friend. While he's more than happy to make new furry buddies, his heart truly belongs to his human family. He's a prime example of a lap dog trapped in a slightly larger body, and he's guaranteed to provide you with an endless supply of cuddles, snuggles, and affectionate gazes. Whether it's a romp in the yard or a leisurely stroll with his canine pals, Hooch Jr. This little guy is no slouch when it comes to learning. And if you're a fan of peaceful walks, you're in luck! He's a leash-walking extraordinaire, making every stroll a breeze. If you're looking for a furry companion who wears his heart on his paw, Hooch Jr. His enthusiasm for life and his love for everyone he meets are truly heartwarming. Whether you're young or young at heart, he's bound to wrap you around his little paw with his irresistible charm and his expertly executed pout lip. If you're ready to open your heart and home to a forever friend, don't miss the chance to bring Hooch Jr. He is microchipped, current on his vaccinations and preventatives. If someone has caught your eye and you wish to arrange a meet and greet, we do need you to fill out the adoption application. When your adoption application is received our screening team will verify the information given. Once your application has been confirmed and approved, we will be send it over to the foster parent for review to determine if your home is a good match for the dog. In the event one lucky dog receives multiple applications, please know we do not select based on a first come basis. We try our best to select the best-fit for our animals and families.

Temperament: Alert, protective and reliable. However, you will certainly get a tall dog with a very muscular build. To see one standing on the front porch and guarding its home is quite a sight. They have a large, broad muzzle and very strong jawbones. Their eyes are dark and its floppy ears can stand erect or fold over at the tips. Height and Weight Both male and females stand between inches tall however, females are usually a bit shorter. Females will weigh between pounds, will males weighing up to 95 pounds. Breed Colors and Coat Brown is the typical base fur color for this breed — it can be anything from chocolate brown to a light tan. Black can appear in large patches or as a mask over their face and muzzle. In some cases, you may see white or light grey patches. If they inherit a coat from the German Shepherd parent it will be a short, fluffy double coat. Whereas a coat from a Boxer will be smooth and closely cropped to the skin. Mixes will a double coat will shed moderately and those with single coats even less. They will need to be brushed once a week and daily during shedding season. Both parent breeds are commonly employed in this type of work. What makes the Boxer Shepherd so unique is its mischievous, playful attitude in addition to being a hard worker. Both German Shepherds and Boxers have an unfair reputation for being aggressive. In reality, a well trained Shepherd, Boxer, or mix is extremely even tempered and friendly. The Boxer is the 11th most popular dog breed in the United States, as of .The German Shepherd is the 2nd most popular breed. You can expect them to be a bit of a goofball as well as a loyal guard dog. These dogs are not aggressive by nature, but they will bite if they are provoked. Your relationship with them should be one of mutual respect and understanding. You need to keep in mind that working dogs always want something to do and will have high energy levels — so you will need to keep them as active as possible throughout the day. A well trained dog will be very quiet and only bark when something is wrong. However it will take time to train a puppy out of their natural suspicion of strangers. Expect a bit of barking here and there as your puppy learns who they can and cannot trust. Since these pups are so suspicious of other people, early socialization is a must. Even socialized puppies will remain distant to people outside of their home. Finally, you should know that this dog does not like to be left alone — so you should find a good dog sitter if you are away from home often. A German Shepherd Boxer Mix makes a great family dog for the right type of family. Apartments and urban areas do not make the best home for one. Your dog will need their own outdoor space to let out all of their energy. If you have ever owned a German Shepherd or a Boxer, a mix will not be too much more difficult to manage. Keeping this pup active and entertained is the biggest challenge for the breed. They are not for owners with inactive lifestyles. Exercise Requirements This very active dog will want to be on its feet for most of the day. If you are a born outdoorsman, your furry friend will be eager to join you on all of your adventures. They need at least 90 minutes of exercise each day. This could be with a 30 minute walk and then an hour of play. Your dog will be up for just about anything, but running is their very favorite thing to do. Try a game of tag with your pooch, or a game of hide and seek. You can also cater to their love of agility with an exciting backyard hurdle course. If you live on a farm then they will help you tend your livestock just like their Shepherd ancestors would do. Number of Walks Per Day: .Grooming and Shedding Their short coat makes grooming fairly easy. Once a week brushing is fine for most of the year, but you will have to brush them daily during these shedding seasons. As tempting as it may be to stick a dirty dog right in the tub, you should only bathe them once every 3 months. Too much bathing will wash out the oils in their skin. Also, make sure to get between those big floppy ears. Feeding and Diet When you have an energetic dog it is important to fuel their day the right way. This breed will do well with a raw or whole meat diet. Protein should make up most of their diet. Carbs and fats should be derived from natural sources such as fruits and veggies. The fillers in many commercial dog foods are nothing but empty calories. It is very common for large dogs and causes pain and impaired mobility. Physical therapy and pain medication can treat mild to moderate cases of hip dysplasia, while surgery may be needed for more severe cases. EPI is a chronic condition that requires lifelong treatment and dogs with EPI must be given enzyme supplements. With little planning ahead you could get reimbursed for every vet bill from now on! As always, you should meet the puppy before deciding whether to buy, and a reputable breeder will let you meet the parents and, potentially, any siblings. Familial traits can be passed from one dog to the next, although individual attributes are more important than breed attributes. Finding a Boxer Shepherd at a dog shelter might take some patience, but you can always ask for other mixed dog breeds that resemble the Boxer Shepherd. They were used as war dogs thanks to their power and bravery. Today, the most common breed of dog for use in explosives detection is the German Shepherd, which is also used as police dogs and service dogs, because they are known for being one of the easiest dogs to train. Boxers Are Great with Kids Boxers have a somewhat unfair reputation for being fighting dogs. They are lovers rather than fighters. Boxers are family orientated and they make especially good pets for children. They are patient and gentle with children, despite being headstrong and boisterous at other times. Boxer Shepherd Mixes tend to take on this attribute, so they are incredibly loving, but they do demand love in return. It was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club back in and even has its own motto — Utility and Intelligence. It was given the motto by breed champion Captain Max von Stephanitz. Stephanitz is widely credited with having introduced the modern German Shepherd breed and was responsible for setting the standards for the breed. Utility and intelligence are arguably the two words that best describe this heroic breed and the attributes that make it popular in a host of service roles. The German Shepherd is used as a guard dog, service dog, police dog, and in a range of other service roles. It is easy to train and can learn new commands quickly and easily. While the Boxer is said to share similar attributes, he can come across as being accident-prone and a bit dim. With constant training, the possibilities with this breed are almost endless. The German Shepherd can be shy and wary of strangers, which means that some Boxer Shepherds can adopt a similar outlook. Take them to puppy classes, enroll in a dog agility class, and take them down to the park where they can meet other puppies and their owners. Boxers can be a bit silly and your Boxer Shepherd Mix might have fits of boisterousness to contend with. While they will usually calm this activity around children, you might want to clear the decks for a five-minute charge. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are easy to train, constantly willing to take on new information and commands, and they crave the love and attention of their owners. Although they have adopted some of the rambunctiousness of the Boxer breed, they usually reserve this for when small children are out of the way. The German Shepherd Boxer Mix will require regular walks, at least once a day, but their high level of intelligence means that they will learn games to play with family members of all ages. They can become very close friends with children, and through socialization at an early age, they should be welcoming of new additions to the family. You should monitor activity around your children because the size of this breed means that they still pose a danger even if they are being friendly. They will enjoy spending time at the park playing, and they can also thrive with another dog in the house. This breed can live with cats and other pets, although this is always easier if you can introduce them at a young age, and the size and liveliness of the Boxer Shepherd Mix means that it can be intimidating for smaller animals like cats. They are bright and attentive with a fun and silly side, that can keep all family members entertained for hours on end. Below are some things to consider when you are thinking of adding one to your family. They are likely to be voracious eaters, gobbling up food you put down. The primary food source for the German Shepherd Boxer Mix should be meat protein such as is found in chicken, lamb, or beef. You can also introduce fish oil to aid in keeping a healthy and shiny coat, while carbohydrates and fat give your dog the energy they need to get through the day. They are also strong and intelligent. This combination means that you will benefit by giving your dog regular exercise. You should walk your dog at least once a day, ideally giving him two or more walks. To keep your Boxer Shepherd Mix entertained and switched on, you can enroll in agility classes or take them hiking or climbing with you. Both breeds and the subsequent crossbreed will enjoy spending a lot of time outdoors. Unless they receive appropriate mental stimulation throughout the day, they are more prone to destructive and unwanted behavior. German Shepherds are renowned for their ability to learn. This is why they are chosen as service dogs, and why they can make exceptional pets. Even when you think your dog has learned everything it possibly can, a Boxer Shepherd Mix will surprise you by picking up new habits. Training helps ensure that the habits they do pick up are desirable. With that said, you will need to assert dominance; otherwise, your dog will try to rule the roost. You will have to meet and overcome challenges from the German Shepherd dominant breed. Because they can easily become bored, you will also have to find new and innovative ways to mix up training and continue to provide a mental challenge. Dog agility is a great way to combine flexible training with physical exertion and socializing. Some have a long, German Shepherd style coat, but most tend to get the short coat of their Boxer ancestors. Those with short-haired Boxer Shepherds should only need to brush once a week, but if your cross has inherited the long-hair of the German Shepherd, you will need to groom two or three times a week , especially if your dog is active in fields or, worse still, ponds and lakes. Bathing may be necessary but should only be done when necessary. Brush teeth at least two or three times a week, ideally every day, and wipe their ears clean once a week to prevent ear infections. Boxers are prone to a number of health complaints including cancer, cardiomyopathy, hypothyroidism, bloat, and allergies. German Shepherds tend to suffer from bloat, myelopathy, and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Both breeds suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia. With that said, there is no guarantee that your dog will suffer from these conditions, but you should keep an eye out for any signs of them developing. Minor Conditions. Your dog should have a healthy weight. Extra weight or being overweight is bad for dogs because this places additional pressure on its spine. Obesity can also lead to some medical conditions that can be fatal for your dog. One of the most common causes of obesity is giving your dog treats. Therefore, you should never give your dog food treats when training your dog. The following dog food brands are perfect for German Shepherd Boxer mix breeds 1. Blue Buffalo There are reasons why more pet owners trust Blue Buffalo. It is made from whole grains like brown rice and oatmeal to keep your dog satiated and to help sustain its energy all day long. Blue Buffalo helps maintain regular digestion. It is available for large breed dogs and small breed dogs. Halo also has low-carb options with ingredients like salmon, turkey, and flaxseeds. Iams Iams is a well-known dog food with a fantastic nutrient profile. The ingredients are naturally made from real meat and whole grains. This brand will help your dog maintain its ideal weight and energy levels. Never give your German Shepherd Boxer the following food. Keep in mind that not all human food is safe. Some dogs may also have allergies so be careful in giving your pet just any kind of food. Salty foods and junk food Alcohol Chicken bones or cooked chicken bones Grapes or raisins Chocolate, coffee, or tea Apart from the unconditional love that your pooch gets from you, you should know how important their nutrition is for their happy life. Your hairy friend is a descendant of two gorgeous parents, who can sometimes differ a lot from one another. This means that your pooch can develop a propensity for various food types and you can experiment with best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food , too. If you want to see your puppy strong, happy, and healthy, consider some of the best puppy food brands , while senior dog owners have the best senior dry dog food on their menu. Just make sure to consult with your vet first! You need to spend enough time daily to exercise and play with your dog; otherwise, it can become bored and develop destructive behavior. A tired dog is a good dog, so they say, and the only way to tire this dog is to give it a good run and to play active games. Activities, like running, jogging, swimming, Frisbee and fetch, are perfect for this breed. Playing with your dog is not just a way to exercise your dog but will also help you develop a strong bond with your pet. As much as possible play with your dog daily. Invest in durable toys for your dog. And most of all, this dental chew toy will make his breath smell better and protect his teeth. Baily is soft and cuddly and is also washable. The Chuckit! These are easy to clean too if only you can take this toy away from your dog! Training this mixed breed is easy, but you need to do it right. Here are a few tricks that you can use to train your dog. Offer Positive ReinforcementAvoid food treats. Provide positive reinforcement to support proper behavior. The moment it arrives home, teach it simple house rules. Show your dog where this will sleep and where it will find its food and water bowl. Be patient, and your puppy will surely understand where everything is at. One way is to use the clicker method. The clicker is a small device that gives an audible click, something that your dog will love to hear. The point of the clicker is to give a click if your dog follows your command. You can use the clicker for any trick. Just click the clicker after your dog follows your command and then click this again when you want your pet to repeat the behavior. Clickers are available in most pet stores. Avoid Confusing Your Dog Dogs can be easily distracted. Just a loud noise or strangers can distract them from learning new tricks. So at an early age, train your pup in a quiet environment with no distractions. Avoid confusing your dog at this stage so he can learn tricks fast. Start training your dog indoors and gradually introduce him to the outdoors. You will know that he is ready for outdoor training once he is less distracted to noise and other pets and people. A Boxer German Shepherd dog can be trained to become service dogs and guard dogs. You can ask a professional to train your dog so he can learn obedience training, protection training, attack training and so on. One, this dog will love to be with their masters and will do everything they can to please them. Next, this dog will defend his territory and will guard his family with his life. This dog will also be patient with other dogs and other pets at home. The Boxer German Shepherd should be allowed to socialize with other dogs and people as early as possible. If this is not done, the dog can develop anti-social behaviors and may become aggressive with people or other dogs. Your German Shepherd Boxer pup will grow up to be a well-behaved, loving, happy and healthy dog when you train it early and expose it to people and other animals in your home or community. It is a cross between the Boxer and the German Shepherd. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. Full of life and always wanting attention, I never leave her behind. She is very sweet and a great cuddle buddy, but this goes without mentioning her evil side. She has a mind of her own but as long as you speak to her as an equal , she will never leave your side. Very friendly and plays great with other dogs big and small. He also plays great with our three cats. He loves rides in the car and truck. I found her over the internet and fell in love with her picture. I drove 30 miles to go get her. She's had her tail docked.But she still likes to chase her stub even though she can't reach it. I've seen her go after it for awhile though. And when she's excited her whole body shakes. She's a sweet puppy and her best friend is my one year old son. I noticed that Boxer-Shepherds aren't a popular hybrid, but I think I've come across one of the best breeds that will ever have existed. She's in great health. She's 4 years old in this picture. She loves to run around sometimes, but most of the time she lays around. She is .She has another dog friend named Biskit, which they get along okay but do fight lot. Nothing serious though.

What are these milestones, and when can you expect them to meet them? We break it all down here, so you know exactly what to expect each step of the way. When you adopt a German Shepherd puppy, it can seem like they just keep growing. A fully grown German Shepherd will stand between 22 and 24 inches tall and weigh anywhere between 50 and 90 pounds. This manifests itself in many ways, but the most notable factor is their energy level. Puppies tend to have far more energy and be a little clumsier than fully mature dogs. German Shepherds leave their first puppy stage at around the 6-month mark, when they reach adolescence. When a dog reaches sexual maturity varies drastically depending on their sex. Male dogs tend to reach sexual maturity anywhere from 6 to 9 months, while female dogs tend to wait until adulthood. If you want to neuter a dog, you have a much smaller window to prevent puppies than with females. Their adult teeth are much larger and less sharp than their puppy teeth. Image Credit: aleksandra85foto, Pixabay Final Thoughts With so many age ranges that your German Shepherd can mature in various ways, it can be hard to keep track of everything. Related German Shepherd Reads:. German Shepherd Development: From Puppies To Adults Posted on Last updated: Categories German Shepherds From early puppyhood to adulthood, German Shepherds undergo significant development that shapes their temperament, behavior, and physical abilities. As a dog owner, understanding the developmental stages of your German Shepherd is crucial to providing the right care and training. German Shepherd development consists of several stages. Hey there! As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site. Contents Final Thoughts German Shepherd Development and Growth Stages German Shepherd development refers to the physical, cognitive, and social changes that occur in German Shepherd puppies as they grow and mature into adulthood. These changes include the physical development of their muscles, bones, and organs, as well as their ability to learn and process information. Social development involves their ability to interact with other dogs and humans and to understand and follow social rules and norms. As a dog owner, it is important to understand the growth stages of your German Shepherd. Knowing what to expect during each stage can help you provide the best care for your furry friend. In the latter case, you need to know that the German Shepherd puppy depends on his mother for everything in these initial weeks. This includes food, warmth, and physical security. Here, your only responsibility is to make sure the dam is equipped with what she needs to fulfill her duties. As long as you feed the adult GSD right, she will be able to feed her babies and give them the warmth and company they need. You might notice that the puppies may seem asocial. Do not measure how the puppy interacts with other dogs for at least three to four weeks, which brings us to what you can expect within the next two weeks. This is where the puppy can wean off and not need a diet made up of milk exclusively. The puppy can consume solid food but is not too fond of it, especially if it is strange in texture. Your priority at this stage should be to get him to accept solid food without regressing to a diet of milk. There will be a social incentive in weaning off as the puppy will observe the litter he belongs to and notice a simultaneous change in feeding preferences. This brings us to a very important change: social interaction. I mentioned above that you should not worry about social disinterest up until the third week. However, by the fourth week, you should look for some interaction. If the puppy fails to acknowledge others in the litter or is getting shunned collectively, consulting an expert trainer or a vet can be helpful. Otherwise, the journey from being 4 weeks old to being adoption-ready is a long one, and it starts by accepting a human guardian. From weeks 4 to 5, the puppy is learning to accept a human usually the breeder as his guardian. Both dominant guardian and guiding guardian archetypes work in establishing yourself as the leader, but the dominant frame might box you into less palatable training tactics. German Shepherd puppies are quite intelligent, but a bulk of this cognitive ability is unlocked in two stages. The first is around the five-week mark. This could be the fourth or sixth week, depending on the individual puppy, but it is noticeable when the dog starts getting excited about other dogs. Of course, you need to be on schedule with socialization and carry-walks to notice this. Again, this explains why breeders usually keep the GSD puppies at this stage. Aggression issues can stem from excitement signaling menace. The opposite is true as well. Fortunately, professional breeders expose the dog to other dogs his age at this stage, and he learns to adjust how he shows and perceives excitement, making your life as a new German Shepherd parent much easier. But socializing your German Shepherd happens in stages as well. And of different ages. The wider the variety of people he gets to see and interact with at this stage, the more receptive he will be to people growing up. If your German Shepherd has seen only young people all his life, he might react differently to older ones and vice versa. This also applies to experiences. Exposing your puppy to experiences like car rides and ringing doorbells ensures that he will be calm in normal situations as he grows up. And in addition to getting your German Shepherd acquainted with normal stimuli like bells and travel, you must get him crate trained at this stage. Introducing the crate as a refuge and a secure spot as opposed to jail is a great way to get your GSD puppy to accept the crate. The more you delay this, the harder it becomes to crate-train a German Shepherd. If you want to check how his growth compares to the guidelines, head over to this article, When Do German Shepherds Stop Growing? This also includes a handy growth chart. This is a critical stage because if unchecked, your German Shepherd might end up hurting other dogs or be hurt by them. The watchful dog-parent in you that you were holding back has his chance to shine here. Make sure you keep a close eye on your German Shepherd and how he interacts with any other dogs in the house. The status-measuring step is one even adult dogs take when first interacting with each other. But at this age, dogs engage in prolonged status-measuring inquiry and either establish dominance or accept their subservient spot. You cannot force your German Shepherd to be the alpha in a relationship with another dog. GSDs are very physical, which is fine when two dogs play within the same breed. But if one of your doggos belongs to a relatively fragile lineage, you might want to consider some separation. If you are worried your German Shepherd playing too rough , click the link for some cool tips on how to limit rough play. The easier to walk your GSD is, the more enjoyable it will be for you both. This is better elaborated in my dedicated post on the fun exercises you can do with your German Shepherd puppy. At the same time, his physical energy levels are rising every day, which can be counterproductive as your German Shepherd can get uber-excited about physical activity. Make sure you have him on a no-pull harness instead of a collar-and-leash, so you can get him properly under control without hurting him. You can also see my other recommendations here. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. According to Total German Shepherd , all feeding changes should be made gradually to ensure the best possible results. The food recommended by the breeder or rescue organization should be used for the first few weeks to avoid digestive disruption, and kibble should be mixed with a little water. Clean water should be available to your puppy all day but taken up at night. Puppies between eight and 12 weeks old do best with being fed three or four times daily. After 12 weeks, feeding your puppy twice a day is fine. Any changes to the amount of food a puppy eats should be done gradually. Puppies will experience their most significant growth rates between three and six months old. In most cases, this will be around a year old, although larger males might take longer to reach this size. The Happy Puppy Site states that a lot of problems German Shepherds can encounter are due to bone growth that occurs too rapidly. These issues include hip dysplasia. Choosing the right food and feeding the right amount both play a leading role in making sure your puppy grows at an acceptable rate. A raw diet might prove beneficial once your dog has reached adult size. One of the possible benefits is reducing the possibility of hip dysplasia. When your puppy has a growth rate that follows a proper pace, the dog will reach the appropriate proportions when they are supposed to. Even though all dogs run the risk of injury, a puppy that grows at the appropriate rate has healthier bones. Puppy food for large breeds with a high protein level is best for German Shepherd puppies. Whenever possible, it is always a good idea to continue the same brand and essential formulation, but to switch to the adult version when appropriate. You will not only avoid any issues with finicky behavior but will also help ensure that your puppy continues to meet its essential nutritional needs. The outcome of taking these steps will be better overall health for your dog. Then, you will replace half the food for two days and three-quarters for two days, ultimately making the switch totally to the new food. This process should take two to four weeks. This video helps put the process of switching your dog over to another food into perspective. This relatively simple step is an essential way of making sure that your dog is nourished. Avoid adding supplements, because they may add too many nutrients that are already present in the food. Eggs, cooked vegetables, or yogurt make suitable additives for better digestion or flavor variety if you want to provide a treat. Amanda J. These guidelines may vary depending on the brand and formulation. Make sure your dog keeps a healthy weight. The spine, ribs, and pelvic bones should be easy to lightly feel. All GSDs should have a visible waistline. If the food your puppy is eating seems to be leaving them unsatisfied or they do not appear to be gaining healthy weight levels, you may need to consider following up with your veterinarian. Medium-length beef marrow bones can be a tasty treat in addition to their food, especially if stuffed with pumpkin without any spices or peanut butter. However, avoid pork or poultry bones, because these can splinter very easily. Gravy should never be given as a treat because of its potential to cause diarrhea. Another concern is that gravy might contain spices possibly toxic to dogs. Avoid feeding table scraps for the same reason. There are concerns about some kibble-based dog foods that owners should be aware of, according to Anna Burke. These foods include grain-free varieties high in potato and legume content like lentils or peas. Such ingredients increase the risk of canine dilated cardiomyopathy. Large dogs like Shepherds may be somewhat more prone to this condition. If you want to consider this diet, wait until your dog has achieved adult size. Avoid homemade diets, as these are mostly deficient in crucial nutrients that growing puppies require. Melissa Smith notes that timing is everything when it comes to switching from puppy to adult food, and your vet will play a leading role. One of the reasons why timing is so important is because the calorie content of puppy food is so high. This can make the young adult dog gain weight too quickly, in the wrong places, particularly the belly area, where fat can be dangerous. A growth spurt after a year is possible in German Shepherds, particularly males, and your vet may have a good idea of when the growth will finish. However, what about Shepherds that are not purebred? This question is very reasonable, as it is a little more difficult to guess when a mixed-breed is done growing. Compare your measurements to popular GSD growth charts for reference. Consider making sure your vet is on-board as you make the transition from puppy food to adult. Your vet will be able to spot any nutritional deficits that require addressing. Another advantage is being able to ensure the dog has proper bone growth. If your German Shepherd has needs that require a special diet, your vet will be able to provide valuable guidance about the appropriate timing. Even though you might find it challenging to think about obesity when your dog is transitioning out of puppyhood, this stage is not too early by any means. Early prevention is key to stopping many conditions besides hip dysplasia. Both obesity and being underweight can come with their share of problems for your growing dog. Obesity, when unchecked, can not only lead to bone and joint issues but can also lead to heart disease and diabetes. If your dog is underweight, Amber King recommends a high-protein diet with a moderate amount of fat. Follow up with your vet to help uncover the cause of the low body weight. Another possible health issue of concern, according to Dr. OCD is a condition that involves abnormal cartilage growth at the end of a joint. Wobbler syndrome is another condition that may have its origins in overly rapid growth. This disorder is a neurological condition that affects the spinal cord in the neck area, often leading to difficulties with walking. When you have a growing German Shepherd, the right nutrition makes all the difference in their growth and development. Even though it may feel as though the amount of information on nutrition is overwhelming, it is essential. Making the right choices early on will mean greater health and happiness for your dog. A dog that grows at a reasonable, healthy rate will do much better in life. Recommended reading:.

German Shepherd Drawing Tutorial The image below is the final german shepherd sketch that you will achieve by the end of this tutorial. German shepherds have quite a unique physiology, with their sloping back legs, large ears, and long muzzle. The coloring of a german shepherd is also unlike many other dogs. Nailing these physiological and color characteristics will guarantee you a realistic german shepherd drawing. Every artist has their own unique style, and this should always show through in your final product. As such, do not expect your german shepherd sketch to look exactly like ours. You can use any medium of your choice to complete this tutorial. Whether you use a graphic tablet, or you prefer the allure of watercolor paint , you can simply adapt the instructions to suit your techniques. Step 1: Constructing the Main Body of Your German Shepherd Sketch For all of our animal drawing tutorials, we always begin by using construction lines to lay down the basic shape and proportions of our animal. Beginning with the largest part of the german shepherd, we are going to use an elongated oval to represent the main body shape. In this very first step, you need to be aware of the final shape of your german shepherd sketch. The german shepherd is facing to the left of the canvas, and as a result, this side of the oval should be higher than the other. This slope will help you nail the sloping hips in your german shepherd drawing. Our top drawing tip for this first step is to make sure that your main body construction oval is at the very center of your canvas. You will be adding legs and a head to this oval, so you need plenty of space! Step 2: Constructing the Head of Your German Shepherd Sketch This second step in our realistic german shepherd drawing tutorial is very simple. For the head, you can use a construction circle that is ever-so-slightly oval. Place this head circle just above the right end of the main body oval. You can see on our example below that our circle is slightly oval and that it is angled downwards, with one end facing the bottom left of the canvas. Step 3: Constructing the Muzzle of Your German Shepherd Drawing If you take another look at the finished drawing at the top of this tutorial, you will see that the mouth of the german shepherd is open slightly. In this step, we are going to use construction lines to lay the foundations for this muzzle. Step 4: Constructing the Ears of Your Dog One of the most characteristic features of german shepherds is their large and upright ears. The ear towards the front of the head is further away from us, and it will therefore be slightly narrower than the back one because it appears smaller and because the base will be slightly hidden by the ear closest to us. To capture the joint for this realistic german shepherd drawing, you are going to use a total of six lines for the leg closest to us, and four for the back one. Once again, we need to remember to consider the perspective of our drawing in this step. The leg that is closest to the left side of the canvas is further away from us, and it is therefore slightly shorter and the majority of it is hidden by the leg closest to us. Begin with the whole leg, which is the one that is closest to us. This line can be slightly angled, but not too much. Now, draw a smaller line that angles slightly towards the front of the german shepherd. To complete this leg, take another line down from the main body at more of an angle, and then draw a matching short line. You can separate the top and bottom parts of the leg with a single line, and then draw an oval at the end of the leg to represent the foot. For the second leg, simply draw the far-left line that curves slightly at the top as it leaves the main body oval. Start with the back leg that is further away from us, using a line that curves slightly towards the back of the canvas. Add the ankle joint using a short line that curves towards the front of the canvas, before finishing the leg with a longer foot oval, as this foot is side-on. Complete the back lines of this leg in the same way. For the very back leg, you can simply repeat these steps, making the leg thicker and more curved. The ankle joint can also be less curved towards the front of the canvas. At the end of this step, you will see the german shepherd shape coming through quite clearly. In the next step, you are going to use this basic shape to create the final outline of your realistic german shepherd drawing. Step 7: Drawing the Final Outline In this step, you can use all the previously drawn construction lines to help you outline the final body of your german shepherd drawing. Begin with the head, using a curved line to hide the ear that is furthest out, and then outlining the ears with a more realistic shape. Add some inner curved lines to create the inner eardrum. You can trace the muzzle construction lines quite closely and add a small nose patch. Add some bulges to the bottom neckline, and then take this line down to the legs and paws. You can trace the legs quite closely, but use some short strokes along the back of them to create the impression of fur. You can continue to use these short strokes to trace the belly of your german shepherd sketch into the first back leg. Use the same short fur strokes to outline the front of the very back thigh and adding in a fluffy tail between the back legs. Finish outlining the back legs in a single line and then take this line all the way up the back to join with the head. When you are finished with this step and you are happy with your outline, you can erase any of the remaining construction lines. Step 8: Adding the Detailing and Fur In this step, you are going to add fur detailing throughout the body of your german shepherd sketch. You can also add some shading details to the teeth and the edge of the tongue. To create additional realism in the face of your german shepherd drawing, you can add some shading around the eyes and in the ear curves. To draw the fur, it is important to consider the shape of your german shepherd. You want the hairlines to flow in the same direction as the body does. For example, the hair on the neck and back should flow downwards towards the back of the canvas. On the belly, tail, and back legs, you can direct the flow of the fur downwards. For the most realistic german shepherd drawing, make sure that the hair lengths on the head are the shortest, and as you move down the body, they should get longer. Step 9: Adding the First Coat of Color To get a realistic coloring for your german shepherd drawing, you need to layer up a few different shades. We begin by adding a single light base color, and then we will add a second color coat and shading, and highlights to create depth and dimension. For the base color of your realistic german shepherd drawing, choose a light shade of brown or caramel. You can use this shade to color the entire body of your german shepherd. Step Adding Shadows For this step, choose a slightly darker and warmer shade of brown to add some shading to your german shepherd sketch. Step Adding Highlights The highlight shade you want to use for this is a light beige color. Use a soft brush to apply this highlight around the top of the ears, just above the shoulder, along the back of the back leg, on the belly, and on the tops of the paws. You can also add a few patches of this highlight shade throughout the body. Step Adding the Second Coat of Color The second coat color you are going to use to create your realistic german shepherd drawing is black. Color the nostrils with a lighter shade of grey, and use this same grey to add shading to the inside and outside of the ears, and around the eye. Step Finalizing the Facial Details For this final detailing step, you are going to need a shade of light red, white, and brown. Begin by coloring the tongue with a light shade of red and adding a small highlight to the side with a touch of white. Color all of the visible teeth with your white shade, and add a little dot to the eye. Finally, for the last facial detail, use your shade of brown to color in the eyes of your german shepherd. Step Finishing Your Realistic German Shepherd Drawing For this very final step, you can make your drawing even more realistic by removing the outline and tracing over your fur strokes with your paint. Use the color that corresponds to that particular part of your german shepherd, and cover any outlines or fine lines that disrupt the realism of your drawing. Congratulations for finishing your realistic german shepherd drawing! We really hope that you have enjoyed the drawing process and that you are happy with your final sketch. Now that you know the basic process of how to draw a german shepherd, you can modify the tutorial to draw other types of dogs. Written step-by-step video tutorial: For the first few steps, don't press down too hard with your pencil. Use light, smooth strokes to begin. Step 1: Draw a circle near the top, left side of the paper as a guide for the German shepherd puppy's head. First draw four small marks to indicate the height and width of the circle, then connect the marks using curved lines. Sketch lightly at first so that it's easy to erase if you make mistake. But the circle doesn't have to be perfect. It's just a guide. If you're having a hard time drawing the circle, trace the outer rim of a glass, a lid or any other object with a circular edge. Step 2: Draw a curved horizontal line across the head. This construction line will help you place the puppy's facial features later. Add a curved vertical line on the top left side of the head for another construction line. Step 3: Draw a small circle on the lower left side of the head as a guide for the muzzle. Pay attention to the size and placement of this small circle in relation to the rest of the puppy's head. Step 4: On top of the head, draw two small, triangle- like shapes as guides for the ears. A lot of German shepherd puppies have ears that flop down, so feel free to adjust your drawing if you'd like. Step 5: Draw a big circle under the head, on the right, as a guide for the front part of the body. This will be a puppy, so don't draw the circle too big. It should only be a bit bigger than the head. The top, left part of this circle should be behind the head, so don't overlap the lines.

Their large size, endless energy, and extreme cleverness may just be too much for some people. Our star ratings below will give you a better idea if the German Shorthaired Pointerpoodle will end up being your perfect pooch. But it can certainly be more of a challenge to know exactly how the puppies are going to turn out in terms of their appearance and temperament. The best way to prepare yourself is to become familiar with the traits and health conditions of both parent breeds. Poodle mixes are incredibly popular The Poodle is easily one of the most popular parent breeds for a whole host of hybrids. One example is, of course, the Labradoodle. Created in the s, the Labradoodle took the hybrid dog world by storm and paved the way for many other crosses using the Poodle. Poodles have a low-shedding coat, a trait that they usually pass on to their offspring. This makes hybrid breeds with a Poodle parent a great choice for those with allergies, who may not be able to own a dog breed that sheds heavily. Thanks to the fact that Poodles also come in three sizes—standard, miniature, and toy—they can be crossed easily with other dog breeds, from the large German Shorthaired Pointerpoodle to the tiny Cockapoo. As such, we can thank the Poodle for a huge number of designer hybrid breeds, many of which have gone on to become incredibly popular! While the Poodle might now be the National Dog of France, the Poodle was originally bred in Germany over years ago. They were used as retrievers for duck hunts, where they excelled thanks to their incredible swimming skills, ability to think for themselves, and curly protective coat. The German Shorthaired Pointer has also been bred in Germany since the s, to help with bird hunts. They are versatile and willing to please and are never happier than when doing something active in the great outdoors. Both parent breeds are eager to please their owners, as well as being affectionate and kind. German Shorthaired Pointerpoodles will thrive with owners who can provide consistency and love in equal measure. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Whether you want to go backpacking in the mountains or camping by the lake, these dogs will love to be included. They also love to play fetch or learn agility and tricks with younger handlers. Their willingness to please means they can be more forgiving to amateur handlers than some other breeds. While they can be great dogs for families with smaller children, their large size does mean that they can inadvertently knock toddlers over with their enthusiasm. Younger children should always be supervised and taught good dog handling habits to maintain a peaceful and happy home for both dog and their owners. With that said, if introduced correctly, they can live happily with other dogs, cats, and smaller pets. German Shorthaired Pointers can be at risk of bloat due to their deep chests, and this is something that may also affect your German Shorthaired Pointerpoodle. While you might not feel like a long walk on a Sunday, your dog certainly will! These dogs make great partners for trail running, cycling, and hiking too. Your German Shorthaired Pointerpoodle is likely to love water, so retrieving games at the beach or lake is a great way to exercise this breed both mentally and physically. A securely fenced backyard is a great idea so you have somewhere for training sessions and games. Their intelligence means they can also quickly pick up bad habits, so puppy classes are an excellent idea to get you both working together consistently and effectively. Bored German Shorthaired Pointerpoodles are likely to turn their attention to finding something to destroy, so make sure you keep those brains well-occupied! Leaving it long can look pretty, but it can easily end up becoming tangled and matted, especially given how active this breed is. Any breeder will be happy to chat with you about these in more detail, as well as provide information on the health tests that the parent dogs may have had. Minor Conditions. I'm impressed. I love my GSP! She knows how to work and is learning to be a phenomenal hunter even at such a young age. Pebbles has been the most amazing addition to our family. My children fell in love at 1st sight. After much hard work on our end of convincing "The Man" of the house that we needed her, she's taken over our hearts and our house ever since. She's brainwashed the children into giving her a multitude of hugs, kisses, belly rubs and bedtime snuggles. I will be forever grateful to Heather and James for blessing our family in a way that words can't begin to describe. Clearly, our continued return over the years is an attestation in and of itself of how pleased we've been with the dogs. While all 3 certainly have there own unique personalities, all of them have qualities in common that would bring us back again in the future: They are incredibly smart, they are easy to work with and train, they've been loving and incredibly trustworthy with our children, and, of course, all 3 demonstrate innate instinct and true joy for the hunt. Submitted by: Eric on Dec 21, Bought 5 month old gap. Tons of drive, bold, birdy. Also a joy to have in the house. They are very knowledgeable and always willing to help and answer any questions you have. And for the dogs themselves they are awesome hunters and great also family dogs. Thanks again rose point kennels! Submitted by: Allison on Dec 20, James and Heather were wonderful to work with, very knowledgeable and quality pup. He was very shy, but full of energy. He is very loving to all of my family. I had him hunting 2 days after I got him and he has been to South Dakota the last 3 years. He points solid and is a retrieving machine. He loves to be around the family. He has been easy to train on an invisible fenced yard, with what areas of the house are off limits and we can't imagine not having Silver as a part of our family. James did a great job showing off his skills prior to purchase and was willing to meet me closer to my house for drop off of the dog. He chipped him for me. James has also provided really good nutrition advice as well as support via online communication. I highly recommend Rose Point for a loving pet that will perform really well in the field. Our pup had wonderful natural ability we were able to work with and he is now a great hunting dog. He is well on his way to achieving more titles and not only that, he is great in the everyday hunting field. We couldn't imagine hunting without his aide! James and Heather are very up front and clear on what they expect from us as owners and were very helpful with any questions we have. We really appreciate their continued support! Not only that but they offer other services like grooming, boarding and hunt training. If we need any of these things it is so much easier to bring our dog to a familiar place and feel confident that he is being properly taken care of! Submitted by: Tiffany Taylor on Dec 20, Rose point breeds exceptionally great dogs. Our gsp is one of the best we have owned.

A Labrastaff, of course! These dogs, also known as Staffadors, Lab Staffies, or Staffy lab crosses, are the perfect mix between the loyal Labrador Retriever and the lovable Staffordshire Bull Terrier. This fact alone should give you a solid indication of what the Labrastaff is capable of and whether it will stick by your side as a devoted buddy. If you are still unsure, we will go over more of this breed's characteristics and traits in the following sections to clear up any misgivings you may have. Labrastaff History Labrastaffs are very recent hybrid dogs. Thus there isn't much solid data available regarding their historical past. John's dogs after the capital of Newfoundland—served as companions and assistants to the community's fishermen. The dog's utility and pleasant temperament caught the attention of outsiders, and English sportsmen brought a few Labs to their country to use as hunting retrievers. The Labrador Retriever was recognized as a unique breed by the Kennel Club in after the breed thrived in England. In , the AKC adopted a similar policy, and in the s and s, British Labs were brought to the United States to help create the breed. After World War II, the popularity of the breed began to soar. In , the Labrador Retriever surpassed all other breeds to win the top spot among AKC-registered dogs, a title they've held ever since. Early Staffies were bred for the harsh bull-baiting sport , in which dogs tried to choke and restrain a bull by grasping its nose and dragging it down. When England outlawed bull-baiting in , owners preserved their dogs' devoted and brave characteristics. While some Staffies were kept for dog fighting, many Staffies found new paths as beloved family pets or working dogs. The reputation of the Staffy changed when people became aware of the close relationship they might develop with their human friends. They might not all look the same as a unique breed, and there is no standard size for them. If you've read any of our articles on other mixed breeds, we often talk about how the dominant parent gene may affect the size of the pups. For the coat, the common colors are black, brown, and brindle. They may also have amber, hazel, or brown eyes. The physique should be athletic and muscular, with the head typically broad, like in Labradors. The tail is typically thick at the base and tampered at the end, while the ears typically droop down. In addition, the Labrador Staffy cross will have large chests, strong necks, and powerful jaws. So far, the Labrastaff dog comes in sizes up to 24 inches and weighs between 40 and 80 pounds. If you love medium-sized dogs that are soft around kids, then a Lab Staffy mix is for you. They are kind and devoted to their family, and they will warn you if they notice any danger. Normally, they don't bark at visitors, but they might if they sense unease or danger. It is fine to let a Lab Staff mix alone in your home with other dogs as long as they are all behaved and your Labrastaff is calm. But keep in mind that your Labrastaff would rather be with people than be left alone for an extended period of time. We recommend you provide a secure, fenced-in outside space. This way, kids at home and Fido may play joyfully in the afternoons! Both parent breeds have sharp minds and are eager to please their owners. The good news is that even inexperienced owners ought to be able to quickly train their Staffy lab cross to behave properly as an adult. However, note that the young of both parent types are rowdy and mouthy. When enthusiastic, they have the potential to damage, knocking over objects. Also, the Labrador puppy's teeth are razor-sharp, even when it's just playing or not trying to hurt someone. Both of these breeds are known for pulling on the leash, so either start early in training or invest in a good harness for powerful pullers. Consider hiring a dog trainer if you need assistance with a training session. It pays off in the long run! Labrastaff Exercise If there is one thing you should remember after reading this article, it is that the Labrastaff dog is not suitable for couch potatoes. Both parent breeds are high-energy, so if you're thinking about acquiring one, be ready to provide the appropriate exercise. You can expect a daily off-leash stroll of 1—2 hours. Expect this mixed breed to like the water as much as Labradors do. Along with extensive walks and indoor activities, they will love swimming in pools or lakes! You should also provide your Labrastaff with lots of brain exercises in the form of puzzles , games, and other activities. Without them, your Staffy Lab mix may grow restless, agitated, and hostile. Remember that a dog with enough exercise is calmer and gentler inside the house. Lab Staffy Mix Grooming Although neither of the parent breeds has a long coat, Staffadors descended from Labradors will require a little maintenance. To keep your Labrastaff dog's coats healthy and free of mats and tangles, give them a brief brush daily. On the other hand, dogs who have more Staffy pedigree will require less grooming. Their short coats won't require much upkeep. Although, checking them regularly is still good because the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is known for having skin problems. Brushing with the proper grooming equipment daily will also keep your Lab Staffy mix from developing gum or periodontal disease. Labrastaff Health Did you know that Staffies live a little longer than Labs? The Staffy is a bit healthier than the Labrador, so hopefully, that will also pass to the litter. Labrastaffs are typically healthy dogs, although predisposed to some diseases their parent breeds encounter. Some of the most prevalent health issues that your Lab Staffordshire Terrier mix may have are: Bloat Unfortunately, Labradors and other dogs with deep chests are more susceptible to bloat than other breeds. WebMD says it occurs when your canine friend's stomach becomes bloated due to the presence of gas, food, or liquids. Eating quickly Having one big meal a day Eating or drinking too much Eating from a raised food bowl A lot of running or playing after they eat Epilepsy This mixed breed can experience reactive, primary, or secondary seizures. The brain's response to a metabolic issue such as low blood sugar, organ failure, or a toxin results in reactive seizures. On the other hand, trauma, stroke, or brain cancer can all cause secondary seizures. The condition is primary or idiopathic epilepsy if no other cause can be identified. Staffordshire Bull Terriers are frequently affected by this genetic health issue. Your four-legged companion may have a cataract if it looks to have a cloudy-looking substance in its eye. Your dog may exhibit the following symptoms of vision loss: Clumsiness. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Labrastaff Highlights The Labrastaff is a mixed breed dog. The most common colors of coat for a Labrastaff are black, brown, and brindle. Labrastaff dogs and children get on great together. They will form strong bonds, and the dog will take on a guardian role to your kids. Early socialization really pays off with this mixed breed. Make sure to reward your Labrastaff for good behavior and adhere to a proper training regimen when you bring them home to your family. The Labrador Retriever originally hails from Canada, where it was bred for hunting and retrieving before changing roles and becoming renowned as a guide dog. The Labrador Retriever is widely believed to be one of the most popular dogs in the United States. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has hunting roots. Nowadays they make great family pets, and most of their aggression has been bred out of them. The Labrastaff has become known as a designer dog breed, but many of them unfortunately end up in shelters. Labrastaff Size The Labrastaff is usually described as a medium-sized dog. Although, as is always the case with newer mixed dog breeds, exact size standards might vary. Most weigh in at 40 to 80 pounds and range in height from 17 to 24 inches. Female Labrastaffs might be visibly smaller than their male counterparts. So if you can offer a safe and fenced in outdoor space that you can also supervise, your kids and your Labrastaff will frolic away the afternoons very happily indeed. While Labrastaffs are usually great around humans , they can become wary of other dogs. Aggressive tendencies might otherwise emerge. Labrastaff Health Labrastaffs are generally considered to be healthy dogs; although, the breed can be predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Labrador Retriever and Staffordshire Bull Terrier face. Some of the more common health problems Labrastaffs suffer from include: Bloat Hip Dysplasia Labrastaff Care The Labrastaff is a dog that thrives in an outdoors arena. Ideally, walks will also offer the opportunity to turn into runs and swims; safe off-leash areas will also bring out the best in the dog. Labrastaff Feeding An ideal Labrastaff diet should be formulated for a medium-sized breed with high energy. Its texture is straight. Getting your Labrastaff used to being groomed from a young age is key—otherwise the breed might start to act stubborn around the brush! In general, the Labrastaff is a pretty adaptable dog when it comes to climate. But always make sure to provide a dog coat if the weather gets too frosty and your canine seems cold. Also, during hotter months, make sure shade and fresh water are always available during the outdoor play times the breed loves so much. Just be wary to leave the breed alone during feeding times—this is a dog that does not tolerate being busied while trying to chow down! If you have existing household pets, be sure to properly introduce your Labrastaff to them and set boundaries. This also applies to dealing with other dogs encountered during walks. Ultimately, early socialization really pays off with this mixed breed. Labrastaff Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Labrastaffs because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Labrador Retriever or Staffordshire Bull Terrier breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Below Dogs Barn take an in-depth look at the staffy lab cross, we look at the temperament and the nature of this dog and the even more in demand puppies for sale. Does a Staffy cross Labrador make a good family dog? What do you get when you breed two of the most popular dogs in the country, which are playful, clever, loving and great with children? Yes, that's right a Staffador. For those of us who, like Goldilocks, want something not too big, not too small, not too hard not too soft. This mix-up of a Staffy and a Labrador is just right. Here at Dogsbarn we think they are the perfect choice for a family pet. With them and their crossbreeds accounting for around 1 in 4 dogs. Standing at around " and weighing in at lbs for females and up to 40lbs for males they come in all colours of the canine rainbow except liver and merle and are exceptionally strong for their relatively small size. Stocky and muscular they have suffered from a bad reputation in recent years, which is entirely undeserved. Unfortunately, they are the breed most often to be found in rescue centres around the UK and account for the majority of the 8, dogs put to sleep every year. The silly Staffy is the joker of the canine world, his tail is always wagging and he is at his happiest when amongst his family, especially children. Playful, kind yet energetic Staffys are the perfect family pet. England's bloodthirsty history contributed to the Staffordshire Bull Terrier being originally bred for bull or bear-baiting and subsequently dog-fighting in the mid 's. Bulls arriving at markets were actually set upon by dogs as a way of tenderising the meat. Therefore, these early bull breeds were not bred for looks but rather gameness and stamina. They were also used as protection for the wives and families left behind, of soldiers fighting the Crimean war. Their loyal, gentle, protective nature earned them the nickname of "Nanny Dog. Gentleman Jim and Ch. Staffy's have an impressive physique. A broad head with dark round eyes, short snout and a wide mouth that gives them a permanently smiling expression. They have a scissor-like bite and rarely drool. A strong neck leads to a square muscular body and they have a powerful tail. These athletic dogs suffer from few health problems although they can be susceptible to skin allergies. They have a lifespan of between years. They are keen to please and one of the easiest breeds to house train. They need to be socialised at an early age as they can be aggressive towards other dogs. Staffys do have some terrier traits they love to dig and left alone outside can easily burrow under a fence. They can also have a strong prey drive like most terriers, so watch out if your hamster escapes. They are being used more often these days as working dogs they have a good sense of smell and make excellent therapy dogs. Contrary to popular belief they don't make good guard dogs they just love people too much. The job they adore the most though, is childminding, playing with and cuddling their extended family. Loyal and fearless a well-trained Staffy loves life and is a happy addition to any home. The Labrador Retriever or Lab as it is commonly referred to, is one of the most popular breeds in the world being ranked number 1 in both the USA and UK in .Highly intelligent, gentle, kind and even-tempered they make fantastic pets as well as working dogs. The English fishermen who settled there in the 16th century used them to retrieve fish that had fallen from the lines or help haul the nets in. Unlike many other dog breeds, with their dense coats and webbed feet they love the water, are excellent swimmers and can tolerate extremely cold water for long periods. Eager to please their retrieving abilities made them a fantastic sporting dog being the "king of retrievers" their mouths are so gentle they don't damage the fowl. In fact, a Labrador can carry an egg in its mouth without breaking it. The name Labrador was first mentioned by the Earl of Malmesbury who wrote a letter referring to them as his "Labrador Dogs" and the name stuck. Over the years they were imported to England where, because of their exceptional qualities they were bred into other retriever lines including the Curly Coated Retriever. They were finally recognised by the Kennel Club in .Puppies of all colours can be found in a litter, originally only the black ones were recognised as true Labs. The brown and yellow are caused by a recessive gene and these pups were culled at birth. These days all colours are acceptable. .There are two types of Labrador-Show and field lines. Show Labradors or English Labradors as they are known in the US, tend to be smaller and stockier than their counterparts with a thicker coat, otter like tail and more sedate nature. Field or working Labs are taller, rangier, lighter in frame with a less broad face, longer nose, more energetic personality and are easier to train. Labradors along with German Shepherds and Spaniels are one of the most common working dogs on the planet. Their outstanding sense of smell means they excel at tracking and make excellent search and rescue dogs being used by both the police and military over the years. Gentle and intelligent they also make fantastic assistance and therapy dogs but the job we are most used to seeing them doing is as guide dogs for the blind. Guide Dogs is the world's largest breeder and trainer of working dogs. The majority of dogs being bred now are now Labradors crossed with Golden Retrievers which produce puppies having the best characteristics of both. Labradors love to chew and they don't care what. Shoes, socks, furniture, hands they just love having something in their mouths, which is why it is a good idea to have a box of strong toys handy to give them something appropriate to munch on. Guide Dog breeds This infographic is brought to you by The Telegraph. Guide Dog breeds - Telegraph They are also renowned for having voracious appetites and are not generally fussy eaters so their food intake and exercise needs to be monitored to prevent them becoming overweight. A relatively healthy breed their lifespan is usually around years. Good articles for further reading on diets. A Staffordshire Bull Terrier crossed with a Labrador will be a medium sized dog and they will be strong and quite heavy set with a broad head and a permanently wagging tail. Both breeds are boisterous and energetic so if you are looking for a low energy pooch this combination is not for you. Depending on which characteristics they inherit from the parents the health problems should be fewer. The dense coat of the Lab helping with the Staffy's susceptilbilty to skin problems and keeping them warmer, and the Staffy's slightly longer lifespan and good health counteracting the Labs propensity for hip dysplasia. They will more than likely be greedy dogs as both Staffy's and Labs have a love of food and depending on which gene is the more dominant these pups will be a variety of colours although solid white won't be as common as it is with purebred Staffys. Here are some of the things you need to know about a Staffy x Labrador Are they easy to train? Without a doubt, yes! Both breeds are intelligent and have an inherent eagerness to please their owners. Even novice owners should quickly and easily be able to train their Lab x Staffy everything needed to become a well-mannered adult. However, it should be noted that both breeds are boisterous, and mouthy when young, things which need addressing sooner rather than later. They can cause a fair bit of damage knocking over both ornaments and people when excited and puppy's teeth are sharp even when playing or not meaning any harm. Both of these dogs are also renowned pullers on the leash The solution to that can be found here so it worthwhile drumming in the "Heel" command early on in training. Does a Labrador cross Staffy need much grooming? All dogs benefit from grooming it gets them used to being handled, improves circulation and is usually a pleasurable bonding session between pet and owner. That said a Staffy cross Labrador coat is likely to be short if slightly thicker than a purebred Staffy so should just need regular brushing. With the prices of professional grooming increasing every year, more dog owners are just buying the tools themselves and doing it at home. Both breeds are average shedders so a daily brush through will keep hairs to a minimum. Another thing to watch out for is a muddy puddle both these breeds love mud so if you don't fancy too much bathing keep them away. Does a Staffy x Labrador retriever need much excercise? Although not as much as some breeds a Staffy cross Labrador definitely needs quite a bit of exercise. As mentioned above both breeds can be excitable, a well-exercised dog is calmer in the home and less rowdy. Also both dogs are prone to overeat and may suffer from health problems caused by obesity such as arthritis and diabetes. So it is important they have regular walks to burn those calories. Temperament-Is a Labrador x Staffy good with children? There should be no better playmate for your children than this crossbreed. Both the Lab and the Staffy have a special place in their hearts for our offspring and are incredibly tolerant, playful and gentle. Neither breed is particularly nervous or highly strung so can cope happily with the noise and rough and tumble of the average family home. As with any dog they should always be supervised with young children as a pulled ear or lip can provoke a reaction from the gentlest of dogs. What is the cost of owning a Staffador? Both these breeds suffer few health problems so vet bills should be lower than some purebred dogs. Of course any breed can become ill or suffer and accident so it is always worth taking out insurance. The cost of this will also be lower not only due to the fact it is a dog of medium size but also a crossbreed. Food shouldn't be expensive either as neither breed are fussy eaters and will chow down on almost anything. Easy to train.

For the complete list please see our French Bulldog List page. However, prices can vary depending on the breeder and the age, gender and color of the puppy. Most people who are looking for a French Bulldog puppy are willing to pay a price for one that has been well-raised and is healthy. There are some breeders who will give away puppies for free, but these puppies are usually not registered with the AKC and they may not be as healthy as those who have been bred by a professional breeder. You may also want to consider adopting a dog from your local animal shelter or rescue group. There are many homeless dogs who need homes, and you may be able to find the perfect French Bulldog pup there. Here are a few tips to help you find a responsible breeder: Find out how long the breeder has been in business. A reputable breeder will have been in business for several years and will have a good reputation. These breeders have met certain standards of care and breeding and are more likely to be responsible than those who are not members of a club. Ask the breeder about their experience with French Bulldogs. Breeders who have been raising French Bulldogs for many years are more likely to be knowledgeable about the breed and will be able to better match you with a healthy, well-adjusted puppy. It will also give you a chance to ask questions about the breed and the puppies. Visiting your breeder in person will also help you to determine if the breeder is responsible and ethical. If the breeder seems disinterested in the puppies or unwilling to answer your questions, it may be best to look elsewhere. A reputable French bulldog breeder will have healthy dogs and plenty of information about the breed. They will also be willing to provide references from previous buyers. Reputable breeders often have long waiting lists. They should also have health certificates for both the parents and the puppies. A reputable Missouri French bulldog breeder should be happy to let you meet some of their previous customers. A reputable breeder should be happy to let you meet some of their previous customers. If the breeder does not want you to meet past customers, it could be a sign that they have something to hide. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to ask your Missouri French bulldog breeder. They should be more than happy to answer any questions you have. Reputable breeders want to make sure their puppies go to good homes, and they will be happy to help you find the perfect puppy for your family. When looking for a French bulldog breeder, it is important to ask if they have a good veterinarian they use. If the breeder you are considering does not have a good veterinarian they use, it is best to avoid them. A good veterinarian is important for the health of your dog, and you want to make sure your breeder uses one. One of the most important things to look for when choosing a French bulldog breeder is whether or not the puppies are raised in a home environment. A reputable Missouri French bulldog breeder should have their puppies raised in a home environment, where they are socialized and handled often. If the breeder you are considering does not have their puppies raised in a home environment, it is best to avoid them. Puppies that are not raised in a home environment are more likely to be shy or aggressive. Some warning signs include: Breeders who are only interested in making money and not in the welfare of their animals. Breeders who do not health test their animals or allow prospective buyers to do so. Breeders who have a lot of puppies available and are not willing to place them with carefully screened homes. Breeders who are not registered with the AKC or any other legitimate breed registry. It is important to remember that not all breeders are created equal. There are many responsible, ethical French bulldog breeders in Missouri who are breeding for the love of the breed and the betterment of the puppies. It is important to do your research before buying a puppy and to be sure that you are dealing with a reputable breeder. If you encounter a breeder who exhibits any of these warning signs, it is best to walk away and find another breeder. You can also contact the proper authorities. The breeder should be able to provide you with a health certificate from a qualified veterinarian. The breeder should also be willing to provide you with references from other people who have purchased puppies from them in the past. Be sure to contact these people and ask them about the quality of the puppies and the level of care that the breeder provided. How to Prepare Your Home for Your French Bulldog Puppy When you bring your French bulldog puppy home, there are a few things that you will need to do to prepare your home for him. You will need to provide your puppy with a safe place to sleep and play. The best place for this is in an exercise pen or a small room that can be blocked off from the rest of the house. You will also need to provide your puppy with plenty of toys and chew bones to keep him occupied. Be sure to provide fresh water and food at all times. In order to potty train your French bulldog puppy, you will need to set up a designated area outside where he can go potty. Be sure to praise your puppy when he goes potty in the correct area. It is also important to keep your puppy up-to-date on his vaccinations and to take him to the vet for regular check-ups. If you are not prepared to handle the energy of a French bulldog puppy, it is best to reconsider adopting one. Daily walks and plenty of playtime are essential for keeping your French bulldog puppy happy and healthy. If you do not have enough time to devote to a dog, it is best to adopt an older dog that does not require as much exercise. The best way to do this is by establishing a routine and sticking to it. Toilet training usually involves taking your puppy to the designated potty area outside several times a day and praising him when he goes potty in the correct spot. Be sure to keep an eye on your puppy so that you can take him outside as soon as he has finished going potty. If you catch your puppy having an accident inside, do not punish him. Simply clean up the mess and put him in the designated potty area immediately. This will help him learn where he is supposed to go potty. It may take a little bit of time, but with patience and consistency, you will be able to successfully potty train your French bulldog puppy. The Benefits of Purchasing A French Bulldog from A Reputable Breeder When you purchase a French bulldog from a reputable breeder, you are getting a dog that has been bred for good health and temperament. You will also be able to get help from the breeder if you ever have any questions or concerns about your dog. It is important to do your research before purchasing a French bulldog puppy and to be sure that you are dealing with a reputable breeder. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. They are also known for their distinctive "bat ears" and squishy faces, compact and muscular body and a broad head with a flat forehead. They come in a wide range of colors, patterns and sizes which makes them appealing to different tastes. French Bulldogs can be found in colors such as blue, lilac, and merle, which are considered to be rare and unique colors. At Country Club Frenchies, we are a reputable and responsible breeder based in Georgia, dedicated to breeding quality French Bulldogs. We have strict breeding practices in place and only breed dogs that meet certain health standards. We are transparent about our breeding practices and are happy to provide information about the parents of our puppies, as well as any relevant health certificates. We have a wide variety of French Bulldog puppies for sale, with a variation of colors including blues, lilacs, merles and tri-colors. Our French Bulldogs are well socialized and have great personalities, easy to train, and make great companions. We also offer stud services for other reputable breeders in Georgia. We understand that bringing a French Bulldog into your home is a big decision and we are happy to provide all the necessary information about French Bulldog care, training and health. Our dogs receive the best care and nutrition, and we also provide information about genetics and how to keep your French Bulldog healthy. We also believe in the option of adoption, and we encourage people to consider adopting French Bulldogs from shelters and rescues, who are waiting for a loving home. French Bulldogs are low maintenance and don't require a lot of exercise or grooming, which makes them a great option for people who lead busy lifestyles. If you're interested in bringing a French Bulldog into your home, please visit our website www. You can gain further insights about us by exploring our informative blog posts. Reviews 1 French bulldog puppies for sale under Despite what its name may imply, french bulldog puppies for sale under was developed in England. When activities like this were outlawed in England in , the English Bulldog was bred down in size, resulting in the Toy Bulldog. During the Industrial Revolution, these Toy Bulldogs were brought to France by English lace workers, and the French immediately took a liking to the little dog. So, they began to import more and more of the breed. Over time, the Toy Bulldog became a breed of its own, and was eventually named the French Bulldog. French bulldog puppies for sale under .Frenchies are very adaptable, so they make great pets for first-time dog owners. They adjust well to other animals, too, and are great with kids. Still, most, if not all, French Bulldogs respond well to reward-based training and positive reinforcement. As long as they receive the attention and care they need, French Bulldogs make wonderful, easy companions for all types of people. This is a loving French Bulldog puppy who is raised with children and a real sweetie pie. She enjoys to be around people and will make a great addition to your home. This puppy has a real zest for life and loves to play, play, play! She is vet checked, vaccinated, wormed and health guaranteed. If you are looking for an attractive Lab puppy to join your family…you have found her! Call today!! This canine might be inclined to eye or ear issues. Utilize a spotless fabric to tenderly day by day wipe around eyes and in ears to limit the danger of diseases. Utilize a spotless fabric to delicately wipe between skin folds or wrinkle to forestall skin aggravation or diseases. The Frenchie can immediately get overweight, which will bargain his wellbeing. Cautiously screen food admission and weight. All varieties ought to have standard vet tests and stay current on all shots and inoculations. Download an adoption application here Please email the completed application to adoptionteam1. She is one of the cutest dogs, who makes the cutest noises, that we have ever met. She reminds her foster mom of a baby hippo. She is the kind of dog you can take anywhere and who will be happy to meet anyone. After a 10 minute play, she will return to the activity that occupies most of her days.In addition to lounging on the sofa and showering her foster mom with affection, this girl really appreciates a good sunbathing session in the backyard. Her absolute favorite thing in life though are belly rubs. She is amazing with everything. She regards every car ride as a total adventure. She is thrilled when company comes over for a visit and is kind of like the Walmart greeter of her foster home. We will reach out to you as soon as your application is processed. Thank you in advance for your patience. All of our dogs start their journey in Memphis, Tennessee where they remain in loving foster families until they are adopted. Once adopted, some pups stay local in Memphis. Many others travel via one of our transport partners to their new forever homes. For our Midwest adopters, we have our own private transport. Breed selection is done in conjunction with two local vets and is not to be considered a guarantee but rather a well-educated decision from well qualified staff. Due to the extremely high volume of inquiries we receive, we ask that you request, complete, and submit an application before asking additional questions. We try very hard to include all pertinent information in our bios. We are excited to help you find your new family member. We want to spend our time saving dogs and assisting those adopters who have taken the time to complete an application. Thank you for understanding. Thank you for choosing rescue!!

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Our poodles are family members, not kennel dogs; they live in our house, sleep in our bedrooms, and keep us company when we travel. Our goal is to produce athletically built, temperamentally sound standard poodles with proper structure that avoid the over-angulation becoming common in the breed today. Our color lines trend toward apricot, cream, blues and silvers in both solid and multicolor. All our puppies are dual AKC and UKC registered standard poodles from parents that meet or exceed breed-recommended health-testing. We do not produce doodles or merles. Puppies are raised in our home with a focus on positive developmental exposure and early socialization using protocols from Puppy Culture and the now archived Avidog program. Enjoy some of them below. Standard Poodles are smart, versatile, balanced dogs who desire to be part of the family. They're discerning and willing to jump through hoops literally! Our poodles match our mood: They are couch potatoes when we're relaxing at home, and they're ready for action the second we get off the sofa. They like to sleep in as much as we do, and equally appreciate car rides, hikes, festivals, camping trips, and visits with friends. We encourage people to ask anything and everything that they might want to know. This includes questions about temperament, training, care, nutrition, exercise, or anything else. All Rights Reserved. Orlando, Florida. They are known for their good looks, but the truth is they are elegant athletes. Poodles stand 15 inches tall at their shoulders and grow up to 70 pounds. These pups are proud, active, and smart. They are people-oriented dogs that respond well to positive and fun training. They have a short curly coat that requires regular grooming. Poodles are great for a family dog or a companion. With their regal bearing and luxurious coat, these dogs always look like they're ready for a royal procession. Although many people associate Standard Poodle puppies for sale with France, a Standard Poodle actually hails from Germany where it was used as a water retriever. But don't let their appearance fool you — Standard Poodle puppies for sale are one of the most intelligent dog breeds and make excellent companions. If you're thinking of adding a Standard Poodle puppy for sale to your family, learn about their characteristics, activity level, disposition, training, and grooming needs. Characteristics Standard Poodle puppies for sale have so much going on for them other than their good looks, but it's hard to ignore that they are one of the most recognizable dog breeds in the world. Although Standard Poodle puppies for sale have become synonymous with luxury lifestyles, their hypoallergenic fluffy hair and silken elegance have a practical purpose — to offer protection in cold weather and while swimming. With an impressive coat of curls that come in almost any color you can imagine from silver to blue to apricot and an unmistakable outgoing yet dignified demeanor, a Standard Poodle puppy makes an excellent choice for everyone seeking a loyal friend with good looks. Activity Level When Googling "Standard Poodle puppies for sale near me," you may imagine this type of dog breed enjoys a life of luxury, lying around on a couch eating the equivalent of doggie bonbons. However, nothing could be further from the truth. You may be surprised to learn that a Standard Poodle puppy for sale is a lean, athletic dog with great agility and intelligence, making it the perfect pooch for families that want an active companion. Because they were bred to hunt ducks and other waterfowl, it's in their nature to be active, and they love to swim. A Standard Puppy poodle for sale also thrives when given a job to do, and they make great therapy dogs. Disposition A Standard Poodle puppy depicted in popular cartoons and advertisements may be portrayed as snobby and aloof, but in actuality, they are fiercely loyal, friendly, and have a playful, adventurous spirit. They are also very intuitive and can sometimes appear to read your mind or anticipate your needs before you do! Standard Poodle puppies for sale are an excellent choice as a family dog. They thrive in households with lots of activities and opportunities to play and be active. Standard Poodle puppies for sale are great watchdogs without being aggressive or barking too much. Training A Standard Poodle puppy for sale is one of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world. As such, they are relatively easy to train and are eager to please their owners. While a Standard Poodle puppy for sale can be a fantastic pet, they are also excellent working dogs. You'll find that Standard Poodle puppies for sale absolutely excel at agility, obedience, and fieldwork. In addition, Standard Poodles are still used for hunting. Standard Poodle puppies for sale can even be trained to help prevent seizures and make reliable companions for people with diabetes, mental disabilities, and hearing or vision impairments. A Standard Poodle puppy for sale can have a variety of styles of cuts, but they are all more functional than just for decorative purposes. The puffs and pompoms protect vital organs and joints and protect a Standard Poodle from cold water when swimming. A Standard Poodle puppy for sale will require regular grooming regardless of which type of cut you choose. Standard Poodle puppies have hypoallergenic hair instead of fur that grows just like a human's hair, so that is why they require regular cuts. It's important to keep up with regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles. Why Pawrade? Finding a reputable breeder has never been easier Ready to find your perfect Standard Poodle? Pawrade is dedicated to connecting loving families with a dog that needs a home. Using Pawrade to browse for a Standard Poodle for sale is a reliable way to ensure that you get a dog from a reputable breeder. Our focus is on the health of the dog and ethical, sustainable breeding practices. We ensure that the breeders on our platform are genuine, so you have peace of mind in knowing that you are receiving exactly what you expect. If you've always dreamed of owning this type of dog, choose Pawrade for your Standard Poodle for sale and begin a new chapter in your life today! Stop searching for "Standard Poodle puppies near me" — you've come to the right place! We understand just how difficult it is to find a legitimate breeder, so we've put our experience and expertise to work for you. Why wait any longer? Browse through our vast selection of puppies for sale from a safe and reputable source. No Puppy Mill Pledge We have zero tolerance toward puppy mills and pride ourselves in connecting you with honest and reputable breeders where puppies are raised with love and compassion. Learn More Health Guarantee As fellow puppy owners, we know the importance of having a happy and healthy puppy. Every puppy is backed by our comprehensive health guarantee. Life Span Did You Know? Although the Poodle is the national dog of France, they actually originated in Germany over years ago where they were commonly used as a duck hunter. Their curly coat protected them from the elements and they were bred for their excellent swimming skills, high intelligence, and incredible retrieval skills. The Poodle comes in three sizes — Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Throughout history, this dog breed has served many purposes. From living in the lap of luxury as companions to nobility to working out in the field as a valuable hunting companion to entertaining people in circuses around the world, the Poodle is right at home. Although they are more popular as a companion dog, the Poodle still maintains their athleticism and working dog instincts. Poodles are known for their intelligence, cheerful disposition, and sensitive nature. They are versatile dogs that make great family companions. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Due to their sensitive nature, they tend to be a better fit for older children who understand how to approach and interact with a dog appropriately. These dogs prefer peace and harmony in the household, so very young children that are too loud or rough can stress them out. The Standard Poodle also tends to be quite energetic until they are about two years old and may be prone to knock over small children in their excitement. Standard Poodles also tend to make great watchdogs and have some protective instincts. Without proper socialization, they can become skittish, nervous, and wary of strangers. Making sure any puppy is socialized early and often helps them grow into a confident, well-rounded dog. Standard Poodles are highly adaptable dogs. Their energy level tends to make them better-suited for larger homes with room for them to run. But, they can adapt well to apartment living as long as they receive the exercise, mental stimulation, and affection that they need. They tend to do well in most climates. As with most dog breeds, they are sensitive to very hot and very cold weather. These dogs are in-tune with their owners and thrive on human companionship and affection, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Poodles are a relatively healthy dog breed, but there are some potential health concerns to be aware of. Because of their larger, barrel-chested body type, the Standard Poodle is also at risk for bloat. Responsible breeders will screen and test their stock to ensure the genetic propensity for breed-related conditions is not passed along to the puppies. Poodles are highly intelligent, sensitive, and eager to please their owners. They are highly trainable, pick up things quickly, and are a good fit for owners of any experience level. Because they are sensitive and in-tune with their owners, they respond best to consistent, positive training techniques focused on rewards and praise. Poodle coats are curly or corded and come in a wide variety of colors. Although Poodles are known for their low-shedding, hypoallergenic coats, their coats still require a lot of maintenance. Keeping your Poodle in a short clip can help reduce daily maintenance, but still requires regular professional grooming every four to six weeks to maintain it. A longer coat requires daily brushing in order to prevent matting in addition to professional grooming every four to six weeks. Regular professional grooming often helps with this as nail trimming should be done monthly, at least, to keep nails from growing too long. Dental care for dogs , like brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day, is essential to protecting them from painful dental diseases like gum disease and tooth decay. You, your dog, and your groomer will thank you for it! Who knows? If you ensure these experiences stay positive, they could even become a bonding time that your dog enjoys. These are high energy dogs that require a good amount of exercise and mental stimulation every day in order to be happy and healthy. They love to stay busy and may enjoy running with you, going for a swim, taking trips to the dog park , hiking with you, and more. They also tend to be a good fit for several dog sports, such as agility, dock diving, obedience, flyball, tracking, and more. A fully-grown Standard Poodle usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. They can be slightly smaller than the usual as the Standard size is denoted by being more than 15 inches tall at the shoulder. A Standard Poodle generally lives years. Featured Standard Poodle Article.

box pei puppies - Autoimmune Diseases Eye Disease Most of these problems, however, can be prevented or treated as long as you are willing to monitor your dog and keep a close eye on them. You can ask your veterinarian to schedule your dog for a DNA test that will help in the determination of possible inherited diseases. There are also balanced diets that are dependent on what your dog needs. You can ask your veterinarian for a diet recommendation that is specific for your dog. Rottweiler German Shepherd Cross Food Requirements It is vital that your Rottweiler German Shepherd cross is fed the right diet to maintain its glorious health and physique. You must also keep in mind that this breed is prone to obesity, so exercise and proper diet is important to avoid health complications. Producers have different recipes for big dogs, so make sure you check the label when buying the best large breed dry dog food. On the other hand, its parent breeds, German Shepherd and Rottweiler, have similar dietary needs to there is not much complication as to what to feed your puppy. Older dogs will be better off with the best senior dry dog food brands. As similar with other dogs, there better the source or main ingredient is in dog food, the healthier your pet becomes. Check out our guide to best dry dog food and learn more about the nutritional requirements of canines. The main concern with dog food recipes, however, is the presence of grains. Many owners opt for a grain-free option, which is what to go for to avoid allergies in your dogs. To help you pick out the best dog food for your German Shepherd Rottweiler mix, here are some of the best high-protein dog foods: 1. Dog For Dog Food — Not only affordable, but this dog food is also grain-free which is described as what dogs would eat in the wild. It is known to have a better flavor and provides digestible energy and natural antioxidants for a healthier immune system. Wellness Core Dog Food — This dog food has recipes for all sizes and ages. It has an above-average protein and fat content, as well as below-average carbohydrates when compared to other brands. Nutra Thrive dog food supplement and similar products may be considered if you believe the dog is not getting enough micronutrients. Always consult with the vet before giving such products to your pup. They will determine whether the pooch needs their food boosted. Rottweiler German Shepherd Hybrid Exercise Requirements The German Shepherd Rottweiler hybrid is not recommended for owners who have small homes or apartments not only because of their size but also because of their exercise requirements which will include outdoor activities that are best conducted in a spacious backyard. They can spend plenty of time enjoying the outdoors in fine weathers. They also tend to become destructive and chew a lot of things if cooped up for too long. If you are going to leave for a dog for longer than a few hours, it is better to leave them at a dog daycare so they can enjoy and socialize with other dogs. The dog is also fine with any kind of weather since they harbor a decent tolerance of heat and cold. Your dogs will need to have a good exercise regimen especially outdoors. They need to have high physical exercise if you want them to stay fit, healthy, and mentally stimulated. You can start by walking them at least twice a day for at least an hour. You can also opt to jog with your Shottie because experts also recommended that they are involved in high impact and fast-paced exercises. Like most dogs, they also enjoy playing games like balls and fetch at public parks. This can help their mind active and their muscles lean. Always remember that your pet is prone to obesity so satisfying their exercise regimen is important. Rottweiler Crossbred with German Shepherd Training Since its parent breeds are famous for their protective instincts, the chances are that the puppy will also inherit them. For this reason, you should socialize your puppy at a young age so prevent their aggressive tendencies and have them get used to the presence of other animals and people. The training your Shottie will receive highly depends on your intention for adopting the dog. First, you must ask yourself if you want them to become a guard dog or a companion dog. Positive reinforcement such as rewards and praises are highly recommended in training your pet. Here are some of the effective methods in which you can teach your dog: The Mark Good Behavior Method — Pick out a unique sound for your dog and chime it whenever your dog does something right. You can use it so that your puppy will learn that music means a reward is coming. Eventually, you can use it along with command words. The Mirror Me Method — If your dog is glued to you all the time, you can use this chance to teach them how to behave through mimicry. The Tied To You Method — If you intent your dog to become a companion dog, keep him tied to you most of the time and try to build communication and trust with them. German Shepherd Crossbreed with Rottweiler and Families One of the many ways that you can adopt a Rottman Shepherd is through rescue shelters but be careful in picking one. You must be well aware of its upbringing and temperament because there is a chance that these dogs were abandoned because of behavioral issues as a result mainly of lack of training, poor obedience, lack of socialization, or sometimes, even aggression. With small kids, it can be hard to control them because they are quite large. They might become overwhelming for the children. On the other hand, they are also in need of a company most of the time because they tend to become destructive if bored. With proper training at a young age, they can become beautiful guard dogs that are active. They can also provide families with good companionship as they love creatures. Should a Rottweiler Mix take after their Rottweiler parent, they will be a larger and strong dog breed that has a sweet, lovable personality and a protective instinct. Rotties tend to be calm and aloof. They also love their families and are lovable, playful, and affectionate with them. As long as they have been properly socialized, a Rottweiler will still be alert and protective of their families, but they will also be open and friendly to new people, especially once they have been introduced. The other parent breed will introduce some traits that could affect this in a Rottweiler Mix, so you want to make sure you ask about them. You can also meet the mother dog in-person to see what her temperament is like and the manners she is modeling for her puppies. Although the breeder should have started training and socialization, it is up to you to continue training and socializing a puppy once you get them home. Rottweilers are moderately adaptable dogs that are better suited to homes with fenced yards. They are more sensitive to heat and do not tolerate extreme temperatures very well. They also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. The other parent breed could introduce the potential for a Rottweiler Mix to be more or less adaptable. They could inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, or they could inherit all of them or any combination of them. From the Rottweiler side, potential health conditions to be aware of in a Rottweiler Mix include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and osteosarcoma. The other parent breed will introduce its own set of conditions and you want to be aware of them. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to ensure they are not passing issues on to puppies. So, you should be asking about the health and genetic history of both of the parents anyway. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Although the Rottweiler is a highly trainable dog breed that picks up on things quickly and is eager to please, they can be a challenge for first-time dog owners. They need structure and consistency in training and a confident leader to train them. As such, puppy training classes are recommended. The other parent breed could make a Rottweiler Mix easier or more difficult to train, so you do want to ask the breeder about them. They help reinforce training, strengthen the bond you have with your puppy, and also offer socialization opportunities. A Rottweiler Mix can inherit a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is truly a mix of both. If they inherit the Rottie coat, they will shed a bit year-round and heavier as the seasons change. Due to a lack of good dental care for dogs , gum disease is one of the most common health issues for them. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. A Rottweiler is a working dog breed with moderate exercise requirements. They need a job to do in addition to daily walks, playtime, and some extra activity. If the other parent breed also sits in the moderate range, then you can expect something similar from a Rottweiler Mix. But, if the other parent breed is a high-energy breed, then you will need to be prepared for the possibility of a high-energy dog. Fully-grown Rottweilers usually stand inches tall and weighs pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother. So, make sure you ask the breeder about them. Although it is not a guarantee, you can also meet the mother dog in-person to get an idea of what size to expect in a fully-grown Rottweiler Mix. Rotties generally live for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should still be able to expect a similar life span in a Rottweiler Mix. Featured Rottweiler Mix Article.


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box pei puppies - Articles Sit. Heal German Shepherd Hip Dysplasia Signs and Treatments Muscular, intelligent, and loyal, German shepherds are steadfast guardians and all-purpose workers. Highly trainable and obedient, German shepherds provide a range of services—excelling as show dogs and household companions, as well as military and search and rescue animals. Exuding confidence, this breed is royalty of the dog family. They are susceptible, however, to challenging hip and joint issues like hip dysplasia any time from puppyhood all the way through maturation. As with many large breed dogs, German shepherds are prone to canine hip dysplasia CHD , a dog skeletal condition that can be inherited or caused by a traumatic fracture or other environmental factors. CHD occurs from malformation of the ball and joint socket of one or both hips the hip joint is called the coxofemoral joint. If so, it maybe be because of breeding. The exaggerated hind leg angulation is often bred into the dog because of standards that dictate rear legs upper and lower thighs should come as close to a degree angle as possible. Along these same lines, a sloping back causes hindquarters to become more angulate and, thus, prone to lower back pain. These bent legs could point toward one of many health problems, one of which is hip dysplasia. Although irreversible, canine hip dysplasia can be monitored and treated to reduce chronic pain. According to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals , .The progression of it and the treatment options available depend on a number of factors, including the degree of misalignment and age of the dog. CHD has a range of signs, depending on the severity of the disease and degree of looseness in the joint. The severity also ranges from mild to extreme pain—some German shepherds even have to use a wheelchair. CHD Treatment Options Dog hip dysplasia surgery for severe cases in medium to large dogs can be expensive. If invasive surgery is not the best choice for your dog, look into non-surgical, conservative management options, such as dog leg braces, physical therapy, weight control, acupuncture, anti-inflammatories, and massage therapy. Ortho Dog specializes in flexible, adjustable, and affordable dog leg braces. Additionally, leg braces for hip dysplasia may slow the progression of this chronic issue. Is a Hip Hound Brace right for your pup? Designed for dogs who suffer from arthritis and mild to moderate hip dysplasia. Below are four common disorders of the hip and joint commonly seen in this breed: Degenerative Myelopathy As a German shepherd owner, you have likely heard of the fatal, chronic, and progressive disease called degenerative myelopathy that is most prevalent in this breed. Typically apparent between the ages of , degenerative myelopathy is a neurological disorder that affects the spinal cord and muscle coordination, ultimately leading to paralysis of the back legs within months. CHD shares several symptoms with early stages of degenerative myelopathy, including difficulty rising and jumping, and progressive weakness of hind limbs. As with any signs that something may be off with your dog, contact your veterinarian for a full exam. Canine Myasthenia Gravis A rare neuromuscular disease, canine myasthenia gravis is a disorder of the signal transmission between nerves and muscles, resulting in progressive muscle weakness, and fatigue with mild exercise. This disease is not typically confused with CHD because the signs tend to show up on the face more than the hindquarters. This incorrect movement can put a strain on their hips, which causes them to walk with an irregular gait. Our Hock Holder brace offers stabilization and support to the hock to help relieve stress. Osteoarthritis Most often seen in senior dogs, osteoarthritis is the inflammation of the hip joints due to cartilage deterioration. You may notice your dog moving a bit more slowly and having trouble with stairs. With less cartilage, bones can grind against each other and cause inflammation. Much like a human wearing a wrist or hand brace for arthritis, the Ortho Dog Hip Hound brace limits the movement of the joint, which helps with the pain. Hip dysplasia On top of all this, you have to understand that a dog with these problems, and especially the constant pain, has a poor quality of life. The German Shepherd is an active and affectionate dog that can turn aggressive , destructive, or completely opposite — depressed, if faced with pain every day. The dog might not feel a lot of pain at the very beginning, but as the months go by, and the condition progresses, the pain will grow, too. You will also notice your dog getting tired easily. As we already mentioned, German Shepherds are not low-energy dogs that are born to lounge on the sofa. These are active dogs that were bred to endure long working hours. If you notice any odd movement in your German Shepherd puppy, take him to the vet. A vet can do an X-ray of the hips and hind legs, as well as do a clinical examination of the dog to get a clear picture of what is happening. The treatment includes: Exercise to build up muscles of the hind legs Knee braces Orthopedic beds Joint supplements You can also help your dog if you give him well-balanced GSD food. German Shepherds are large dogs that need lots of protein to support the rapid growth and development of their muscular and joint systems. Some people have tried swimming as an exercise for their German Shepherd puppies that have back legs close together. Swimming is an activity that perfectly puts all of the back leg muscles into use, which ultimately leads to muscle build-up. Stronger muscles help the dog move easier, support the joints, and make the cow hock look less obvious. The Controversy Dog shows and dog breed standards have been a topic of interest for many years. People realized that the way purebred dogs should look according to the standards is not the right way or the healthy way any dog should look. The controversy does not just surround German Shepherds, but other dog breeds as well. For example, Goldendoodle Tail docking , Bulldog ear cropping , French Bulldog breathing problems, etc. There is a movie called Pedigree dogs exposed, which was done by BBC one, that shows the dark side of Dog Shows, Pedigrees, and desired dog conformation. There is also research done on this subject specifically focusing on the German Shepherds and their conformation breed standards. There is also a blog from the creators of the mentioned movie that continues to tell the truth about these shows. All of them have the same conclusion: breeding programs to fit the needs of Dog Shows must stop. The sad truth is that the German Shepherd we talked about at the beginning won the Crufts that year. There are 7 types of GSDs , but the show-line dogs are the problem. If you think butchered is too strong of a word, take a look at the video one more time. The Conclusion If you have a German Shepherd with back legs close together, all of this might be too much for you. Dogs are made to be our best friends, and to fully enjoy life without restrictions we made for them by manipulating their genes through various breeding programs. This must stop today. Why does a German Shepherd drag his back legs? The condition is quote common among this breed of dog. One of the first warning signs is a German Shepherd that stands with his back paws together. This explains exactly why the German Shepherd I recently witnessed was struggling to get up. Although his paws were not dragging, he was dragging and still probably in the very early stages of DM. Dogs with DM may exhibit symptoms such as limping, dragging, and a loss of control in their back legs. Understanding these challenges can help owners provide appropriate care and support for their beloved German Shepherds. Challenges 1. Limping and Dragging Back Leg: One of the primary challenges seen in German Shepherds with degenerative myelopathy is a noticeable limp in the back leg. As the disease progresses, the affected leg may drag while walking, causing difficulty in maintaining a normal gait. Loss of Mobility and Coordination: German Shepherds with degenerative myelopathy may experience a gradual loss of mobility and coordination in their back legs. This can make it challenging for them to stand, walk, or perform daily activities that were once effortless. Crossed Paws and Inability to Unlock Limbs: An observable behavior in German Shepherds with degenerative myelopathy is crossing their paws in the back when attempting to stand up. This occurs because they are unable to unlock their limbs properly, adding to the overall challenges they face. Development of Secondary Conditions: While degenerative myelopathy itself may not cause pain, it can lead to the development of secondary conditions such as arthritis. Arthritis can further contribute to discomfort, pain, and reduced mobility in the affected back leg of a German Shepherd. German Shepherds, being predisposed to degenerative myelopathy, are prone to experiencing various challenges related to their back legs. Owners may notice their German Shepherds limping or dragging one or both hind legs. This limping can be a clear indication of a problem in the affected leg, requiring attention and care. As degenerative myelopathy progresses, German Shepherds may suffer a loss of mobility and coordination in their back legs. Activities like walking, running, and climbing stairs may become increasingly difficult for them. In severe cases, complete paralysis of the back legs can occur. A distinctive behavior seen in German Shepherds with degenerative myelopathy is crossing their paws in the back when attempting to stand up. This is due to the impaired ability to unlock their limbs properly. The crossed paws further contribute to the challenges faced by these dogs, affecting their stability and balance. Additionally, the progression of degenerative myelopathy can lead to the development of secondary conditions, such as arthritis, in the affected back leg of a German Shepherd. Arthritis can cause pain, discomfort, and stiffness, exacerbating the challenges already posed by the degenerative myelopathy. Understanding and recognizing these challenges is crucial for owners of German Shepherds with back leg problems. Seeking veterinary care and guidance, providing appropriate pain management, and considering supportive devices like harnesses or carts can help alleviate some of the difficulties faced by these dogs. Ensuring a comfortable and fulfilling life for German Shepherds with back leg problems requires attentive care and a proactive approach to their overall well-being. Knuckling in German Shepherds can be caused due to a variety of different factors, such as genetics, injury, or a neurological disorder. This condition can occur in both puppies and adult German Shepherds, however it is more commonly seen in puppies. If a German Shepherd puppy is born with their back legs close together and their feet turning out, this can be an indication of a genetic predisposition to knuckling. Injuries can also cause knuckling, such as a trauma to the spinal cord or a severe strain on the leg muscles. Lastly, neurological disorders can also be the cause of knuckling in German Shepherds. The symptoms of German Shepherds that drag their hind legs include the dragging of the hind legs behind the body and difficulty walking or running. The feet of the German Shepherd may also turn outwards, and the back legs may be held close together. Additionally, the German Shepherd may show signs of discomfort and pain when walking. If the knuckling is due to an injury, then rest and rehabilitation can help to reduce the symptoms. For neurological disorders, medication and physical therapy may be needed in order to reduce the discomfort associated with knuckling. If the knuckling is due to genetics, then surgery may be an option to correct the physical deformity. In conclusion, German Shepherds that drag their hind legs can be caused by a variety of different factors. If you notice your German Shepherd dragging their hind legs, it is important to seek veterinary advice in order to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. With the correct diagnosis and treatment plan, knuckling can often be managed effectively. What is degenerative myelopathy? A disease found in dogs, especially German Shepherds, that is very similar to ALS or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Basically, there is a breakdown of Myelin a protective coat around the spinal cord. The prognosis for progression of degenerative myelopathy is approximately 6 months to 3 years, with no cure at this time. I have no doubt, being the owner of a dog who gets this diagnosis is undoubtedly heart-breaking. The disease will slowly or quickly progress. What causes degenerative myelopathy? At this time, the exact cause of degenerative myelopathy is not known. A gene mutation seems to be consistent in most cases, and tends to be specific to German Shepherds. Other breeds are effected too, including the Cardigan Welsh corgi and the Chesapeake Bay retriever. According to Dr. There are several stages of degenerative myelopathy. Signs and symptoms can cross over each other through the different stages, but this table can be used as a general guide. This is because German Shepherds are intentionally bred to have a steeper angulation to the hind legs. The AKC breed standards for the breed, require German Shepherds to have as close to a degree bend as possible in their hind legs. Unfortunately, this steep angle in the back leg makes German Shepherds more susceptible to back pain and hind leg problems. After years of wear and tear, this makes them prone to serious leg problems as they age. For instance, studies have shown that German Shepherds are five times more likely to develop dysplasia as compared to Labradors, Rottweilers, and Golden Retrievers. A brief overview of these medical conditions: Degenerative Myelopathy Degenerative myelopathy DM is a neurological disease that makes German Shepherds slowly lose control of their hind legs. In the end, the dog may lose control of the urinary and bowel functions, and paralysis is a serious possibility. DM typically occurs in older dogs of about eight years or older, although it may also occur at a younger age. Unfortunately, there is no cure for DM. However, there are ways to reduce the suffering of your GSD because the condition progresses gradually. Therefore, treatment options for DM are geared towards ensuring a better quality of life rather than curing it. Most dogs with degenerative myelopathy will lose the function of their hind legs within six months to two years of diagnosis. Although there is no cure, regular exercise has been shown to improve the quality of life for dogs with DM. As a result, the ball of the hip joint causes pain as it glides roughly against the socket. Signs of hip dysplasia include a wobbly gait, lameness, limping, a decreased range of motion, and pain while walking. The most common causes of hip dysplasia include genetics, leg trauma, and environmental factors. In extreme cases of hip dysplasia, the dog may lose the function of their back legs and require a wheelchair. Arthritis may also occur due to the pressure exerted on the hip joint by hip dysplasia. Since GSDs are prone to hind leg weakness, they are at an increased risk for severe arthritis. Dogs with bad hips and arthritic joints may change their gait and walk lower to the ground, causing German Shepherd legs to appear even more bent. Signs of arthritis in German Shepherds include lethargy, loss of muscle mass in the hind limbs, reluctance to run, jump, or go up a flight of stairs, and stiffness in the hind legs. Prevention of osteoarthritis through proper dieting, exercising, and joint supplements helps to reduce the onset of osteoarthritis. Once osteoarthritis begins, the treatment is geared towards pain reduction, reducing inflammation, and improving the quality of life. Since osteoarthritis is difficult to detect in symptoms until the affected joints are badly affected, it is crucial to keep up with regular wellness visits with your vet. The best way to prevent these diseases is through genetic testing and following good breeding standards. This is possible by checking with your breeder for the hip score regarding hip dysplasia and proper parent matching to avoid degenerative myelopathy. Diet It works wonders for humans, and it will work for your best friend too. Since this breed is already a large-sized breed and the effects of breeding may be unpredictable, maintaining an optimal weight and observing a healthy, balanced diet is a wise precautionary measure. Some of the important dietary options to provide include ample proteins, vitamin D, vitamin K and magnesium, vitamin C, and vitamin E. You should also ensure that the dog food you buy for your German Shepherd is well-suited, with enough calcium and phosphorus for healthy bone development. Your vet may also prescribe bone and joint supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin, green-lipped mussels, and collagen if they are required. An obese or overweight will experience increased mobility challenges. Second, regular exercise, especially walking and swimming, is important. Lastly, consult your vet on supplements or medications that may slow down the progression of DM. In any case, for these medical conditions , keep an eye out for changes in movement and contact your vet if there are any concerns. Some common symptoms that your German Shepherd may show include a wobbly walk, slipping on the floor, sitting crooked, hips giving way, swelling, lesser muscle mass in the back legs, and having a shorter stride on the hind legs. Remember that most dogs will not express pain or discomfort at first, so it is up to you to spot the symptoms if they do appear — This is especially important for degenerative conditions because when it comes to treatment, the earlier, the better! Regular exercise Regular exercising does two important things for your German Shepherd. One, it strengthens the hind and front leg muscles, and two, it helps you spot changes in the performance of the hind legs. This is the sit-to-stand routine. In this routine, you start with your dog sitting in front of you. Then, you move back a bit and call the dog to you. When he follows, give a treat to keep his interest and, once again, sit him down. Repeat as many times as needed. Taking your dog on daily walks up and down a hill especially or having swimming sessions will also strengthen the leg muscles and help in managing the weight. Hydrotherapy is especially beneficial for dogs dealing with mobility issues. Canine massage relieves fatigue and tension in the hind leg muscles and helps to spot any unrelated pain that may be a sign of something to watch out for. How to massage your dog: Compress the muscle against the bone with your flat hand using both your palms and fingers. Glide your hand along his spine, following the lay of the fur. Apply semi-circular strokes on the muscular areas of the back legs. Using a support harness Sometimes, it is crucial to moderate the pressure that your shepherd applies to the back legs when he moves about. This is where the support harness comes in. A harness helps to remove some of the stress that the dog may be feeling when taking walks, for instance, until the muscles of the back legs are strong enough to take it. The use of the harness reduces the pressure placed on the bad back legs and makes it easier for your dog to walk. Keep them at a healthy weight and ensure they get plenty of exercise. Even if your GSD is battling a degenerative illness affecting his mobility, you can explore treatment and supportive methods that will enable a good quality of life. German shepherds are known as a very resilient and strong breed. Your dog will match and appreciate any effort you put into ensuring his good quality of life. Related Articles:. If you notice that your German shepherd has any mobility issues, take him to the vet. You want to find out if it is due to hip dysplasia or another related issue. One of the first things your vet will do is watch the way your dog moves. The vet will watch him walk and run, and also examine how the dog copes with stairs. This will help the vet to see which leg is most painful and how badly affected it is. One of the things your vet may need is a health history. The vet will perform a physical examination. The exam includes testing your dog's nerve reflexes by turning the paw upside down and pinching the toes. This helps to ascertain that the problem is physical with the joints rather than neurological with the nerves. This also helps to confirm which areas are tender or sore. Your vet may also draw blood and take a urine sample. Based on the exam, the vet may suggest taking radiographs of the dog's hip joints. This is best done under anesthetic because to take meaningful x-rays means putting the dog's legs in positions which would be too painful for the conscious dog. A joint which moves out of joint a significant amount is going to be more painful, because the bones are constantly banging against each other. One problem with diagnosing hip dysplasia is that the radiographs need to be interpreted in light of the clinical signs, such as lameness, and the amount of the discomfort the dog is in. Hip dysplasia is a painful condition, so your vet will prescribe pain relief for long term use. If the problem is severe, there are a number of surgical procedures which can be done. These range from a femoral head excisions, where the femoral head is removed so it no longer bangs against the acetabulum, to a total hip replacement.