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Their main goal is to produce GSDs with an impressive temperament that adheres to the standard of the breed. For years, dogs from this German Shepherd breeder have been actively participating in various national and international breed shows. They also have them undergo tests to make sure they are free from degenerative myelopathy. This gives assurance that the puppies which will be born are of high quality and champion lineage. A guarantee is also given to customers upon purchase. The German Shepherds in Van Der Otto are bred to be excellent protectors for kids and families and as working dogs. This is a result of the dog experience of the founders. Since they are ex-law enforcers, they have seen the exceptional traits of a German Shepherd first-hand. During pregnancy, the females are kept in the home of Otto and are given the attention needed. Puppies are also exposed to socialization at an early age as they believe it helps in the growth and development of the dogs. Von Der Otto has two properties where puppies and dogs are brought to run freely and train. German Shepherd pups are trained to attain superb temperament to be family companions or protectors. This breeder is also involved in training shepherds for k9 sports, law enforcement, and therapeutic services. Another great thing about this breeder is that they have dedicated facilities where the dogs could freely play and train. Their acre property is solely structured to provide the dogs the space they need to enjoy and train. Training obstacles are also present in the vicinity. Different training programs were established to address the needs that vary from simple tasks to advanced training. As early as five months old, puppies can already be enrolled and trained in a special program in this breeding facility. If you are interested in purchasing a German Shepherd puppy in Jagermeister, it is highly suggested that you should make a reservation as early as possible. In addition, although their open field is spacious, they only have limited space for boarding and training programs so you should make an appointment earlier. They started with only four young German Shepherd pups which over time have grown into more than 50 litters. One of the edges that Austerlitz has been upholding to is the dedication of each member in studying and improving their breeding process. All of the breeders and trainers in their facility have at least 20 years of breeding experience with some even granted with AKC Breeder of Merit. They see puppy raising as a delicate task that must involve rigorous planning to accomplish. They even have their own puppy raising protocol which they call puppy culture! A vast amount of effort and attention is given to puppy training, health examination, emotional stability exercises, and behavioral training. From an early age, the trainers in the facility are already teaching the German Shepherd puppies basic polite communication and early toilet training. Producing excellent companion dogs with the ability to become outstanding working companions is the specialization of Austerlitz. They only breed shepherds with exclusive German bloodlines to hone their intelligence and obedience further. Some of the GSDs in their facility have proven their value by winning regional and national competitions. For years, they have been dedicated to selectively breeding healthy and fine European German Shepherd puppies. Nutritional completeness and consistency in the diet are also observed in the nutrition of the dogs. This German Shepherd breeder also makes sure to adhere to the standards in breeding German Shepherds as provided by kennel organizations. The application process is quite simple as they have an application form that is accessible on their website. Upon purchase, you will also be entitled to a lifetime return policy. However, if you want to verify their legitimacy, read our ultimate puppy buying guide for some proven tips on how to safely find a breeder online or how to find a puppy for sale while avoiding scams. There are still many places where you can try to search for your GSD puppy and here they are! This is the place where registered German Shepherd breeders promote themselves. You have the assurance that the puppies sold in AKC Marketplace are pure-breed and high quality. It is the parent kennel club of all German Shepherd clubs in America. A lot of registered German Shepherd breeders promote and sell puppies in the organization. You can try contacting their website or visiting the nearest club near you. Navigating through their website is easy. You can find different breeds of dogs in their listing and German Shepherd is one of them. PuppySpot — PuppySpot is another online platform that enables registered breeders to advertise their puppies. You can find a diverse listing of puppies including German Shepherds. Transporting the puppies is not a problem since PuppySpot works with licensed professional delivery companies to deliver your puppy safely. Euro Puppy — This international puppy finder website has been servicing people around the world for 20 years. Euro Puppy also ensures that all the dogs in their site have met the standard health requirements and are safely transported no matter where. The reason why German Shepherd puppies are expensive compared to other dog breeds is due to the fact that the cost of breeding and raising a German Shepherd is not a joke — especially if the breeder is reputable. Since GSDs are mainly used as working dogs and show dogs, training is imperative in raising them. After purchasing the puppy, what you need to be aware of then are the expenses for the food, health maintenance, supplies, beddings, toys, and other pet essentials. Looking for German Shepherd puppies in your area is easier than you think it is. There are a lot of reputable German Shepherd breeders across the country nowadays. Here are some ways you can do to find a German Shepherd puppy in your area: Ask for referrals from trusted and knowledgeable people. There is no arguing that veterinarians would know who among the German Shepherd breeders in your area are reputable. If you have a local vet, ask for referrals. They will definitely not sell you out. You can also try asking German Shepherd owners. More often than not, they are a member of an organization where breeders advertise. Join groups online or use social media platforms. A lot of breeders nowadays are also using social media platforms to promote their puppies. There are also dedicated groups for German Shepherd breeders and owners in different sites. Visit rescue centers. I know. There is no assurance about the lineage of the puppies in rescues. However, if you are not after the lineage and blood origin of your soon-to-be pet, you might find a treasure in rescue centers. You will not only find a companion, but you will also save a soul. Check local classifieds. If nothing worked, you could try this as your last resort. You can scan through the printed ads or posters in your area which advertise puppies. Nonetheless, always be cautious in dealing with unknown breeders as they might be involved in puppy mill breeding. Final Thoughts Ensuring that the puppy we will bring to our home is raised in a desirable environment and well-trained is essential as it will tell what kind of behavior the puppy will develop. With the top ten German Shepherd breeders on our list, finding the best German Shepherd puppy for you is now easier. If you are really determined to own one, make sure that you are emotionally and financially ready as you are not just buying a plush toy — but a creature that is alive. Just a reminder! Always be careful in dealing with suspicious breeders. Always ask for the certificates and medical history to avoid being scammed. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. If you are someone who wants to pet or buy genuine German Shepherd and looking for top breeders in the United States, you are in the right place. After a deep research, we have handpicked one of the best German Shepherd breeders in the US who sale purebred German Shepherds. In order to make their German Shepherds social, confident, and human-friendly these breeders train and raise them in a family environment instead of mills and crates. In some cases it could exceed this range. It is assumed that she is the most expensive German Shepherd ever sold. Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links and we will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on our links. Tiltonhaus German Shepherds Tiltonhaus German Shepherds is a family — owned, fully licensed business. All their breeding stock have been DNA tested for several genetic diseases and their hips and elbows certified. Older puppies may be priced higher as training progresses. Location: Deer Park, WA. Their German Shepherd are thoroughly selected from the top European pedigrees. You can find world class German Shepherd puppies and professionally trained young protection dogs for family, law and enforcement, search and other businesses. You can order dogs online from VBH. It is offering services since , pioneers in this business. K-9 or K9 means Police Dogs, specifically trained to assist the members of security and law enforcement agencies. The have experience of over 22 years. You can buy German Shepherds online. Wustenberger Land Wustenberger Land K9s is globally recognized as one of the best German Shepherd breeders and trainers. You can find black German Shepherds as well. The young protection German Shepherds pricing vary depending on the level of training and title. The pricing is not revealed. You can contact them via the phone number and email given on the website. Top Shepherd Top Shepherd Kennel like other breeders is also a family-owned German Shepherd breeder having experience of more than 25 years. The prices of young protection dogs have not been displayed. You can contact them to find their prices. To find the ideal dog for you they ask to choose the type of dog while filling the inquiry form like what type of dog you want i. The prices are not given. You can contact them on Contact US Page by submitting an inquiry form to set an appointment. Regis Regal Regis Regal is also one of the leading German Shepherd breeders in the United States operating since , offers lifetime health guarantee for puppies. They have not revealed the prices of puppies and young dogs. You can inquire via email, phone number and contact form. It accepts all Credit Card payments. They train family protection dogs, police and dual purpose dogs. The VA stands for Vorzuglich Auslese, is the highest achievable award by a German show dog which is granted only at the annual Sieger Show. The prices of young dogs are not applicable. They accept payments in cash or through all major Credit Cards such as Mastercard, Visa etc. Their main goal is to breed a GSD that has the capacity to obtain the Schutzhund titles. They breed short-haired black and red German Shepherds for families and homes, occasionally they do have long-haired GSDs as well. They have not reveled the prices of puppies and dogs. For payments you can use Credit Card with PayPal. They are suitable for family protection, personal security, Schutzhund, search, guarding, seeing eye, etc. The pricing for puppies and dogs is not revealed. You can contact them via email address and contact number. Location: Howe Rd. Remember that some breeders provide lifetime health guarantee for their dogs. The pricing for puppies is different for different colors. They have experience of 25 years in raising German Shepherds. The PayPal payment method is also available. All their dogs are microchipped with an advanced pet identification number and retrieval system called HomeAgain. It helps to recover dogs in case they are lost. They ship all over the world. It provides large natural environment and world class facilities for German Shepherds which are rarely found in other breeders. They sell their dogs in four categories i. You can make a call to find the prices. Location: rd Ave. The prices of puppies and trained young dogs have not been revealed. You can contact them via phone number and email. Location: 11 Laurelwoods Dr. All their breeding dogs parents are OFA clear of Dysplasia. They are tall, have big heads, straight backs, thick bones and deep chests. They train their dogs for all purposes such as family companion, personal protection, search, sports, etc. All their dogs are AKC registered. In addition, they provide lifetime health guarantee for their puppies. Their puppies come in solid black, sable, black and tan, black and red, both short hair and long hair. It primarily focuses on producing family companion GSDs. They support PayPal and all major Credit Cards. Hope you would have liked our recommended GSD breeders. Share your feedback in the comments section below. Also Read.
I can bet these pictures will make your day. At the end of this cute pictures of Pug puppies, you will find the information about their origin and path to their natural behavior and instincts. A cute Pug puppy hanging on a wood swing. This is not what i asked for, I am hungry. Can you please offer me treat? This is what i am excellent at. Tongue Tuesday. This shake has become my favorite drink. Image Source: Instagram imapugnamedhamilton They call me chubby. If yes, you can see me working very hard. Image Source: Wallpaperplay Giving an innocent look for a photo. My hooman finally decided to take me on a trip. Image Source: Instagram cutepuglovers A cute Pug puppy laying upside down. This is what you get when you wake me from a deep sleep. This is mine! Source: YouTube The Pug is a lap dog that originated from China and has a docile, friendly and charming personality. You will definitely want to buy this cute dog after seeing some of the cute pictures of it. The small-sized Pug is one of the oldest breeds of dog that has flourished since before the B. It is a lean and leggy dog with short legs and a long body. Updated August 1, .This photo gallery includes photos of the cutest Pug puppies as well as cute pictures of adult Pugs. Pugs are a short faced, wrinkled, small breed of dog. This breed has its origins in China, but was brought to Europe in the 16th century. Their coats are typically either black or fawn in color and they have a compact and very muscular body. Because of their short snouts, they often experience a lot of breathing problems, though those wrinkled faces are absolutely adorable. Vote up the cutest, sweetest Pug pictures below. Dogs are man's best friend and have a special ability to lift spirits. This is exactly what the sweet dogs on this list of the cutest Pug puppies do. This gallery of adorable pugs can perk you up no matter how sad you are feeling. Pugs are good companion dogs and great with children. They are very strong willed and have big personalities. These cute Pugs are known especially for their muscular bodies and vibrant personalities. For that reason, a pug puppy makes a great pet for the whole family. Big Eyes. If you're working on a project and pug images could help elevate it, you've come to the right place. Our stock image collection boasts a vast range of high-quality JPG, AI, and EPS files that are perfect for a broad range of projects, from websites to print media and beyond. The benefits of pug images Pug images are perfect for many projects for several reasons. Firstly, pugs are undeniably adorable, making them an excellent choice for grabbing your audience's attention and making them smile. They can lend a sense of fun and playfulness to any project, whether you're designing a children's book or a website for a pet store. Pug images are also versatile and can be used in a vast range of contexts, from greeting cards to posters, and everything in between. How to use pug images effectively When using pug images, it's essential to consider the context and tone of your project. For example, if you're designing a website for a food brand, a cute picture of a pug eating a pizza might not be the best image choice. Instead, consider using images of pugs that are relatively neutral—such as a pug standing on a neutral background. Alternatively, opt for playful images of pugs only when your project calls for a more lighthearted or fun tone. Browse our collection of pug images Our collection of stock pug images is extensive, with thousands of files available for download. Whether you're looking for a specific type of pug picture or just browsing for inspiration, you're sure to find what you're looking for in our collection. With files available in a range of file types and formats, our images are suitable for a broad range of projects. Don't compromise on the quality of your project's images—browse our collection of high-quality pug images today and find the perfect image to elevate your project!
TOP "We love Luna and she's been great!!! She has definitely gotten comfortable and driving our other dogs crazy, LOL! We adore her! She has the greatest temperament!!! She's perfect! We cannot thank you enough! Just wanted to send a few pictures of Macky! He's growing like a weed! We joke that all he knows how to do is eat and snuggle. Obsessed with him! He is an exceptional puppy with a sweetness and sensibility that everyone comments on who meets him. We couldn't be happier with this sweet boy. He was the missing piece to our home. We are considering getting another puppy from you. Whatever you are doing, as breeders, is 'kosher' as far as we are concerned, and I trust you and your opinions. Again, I cannot say thank you enough for our wonderful Royal, and all the work you did in his first weeks, to encourage him to be the best he could be. I want to thank your children for their input also. He practically gets hypnotized when we roll him onto his back and rub him all over his belly, paws, and tail, and he absolutely loves when little kids come over to play. You can tell he had a very good experience with your kids, and passes that love on to other kids. Thanks again, Katie! A huge lover and snuggler. We can't get enough of how sweet she is! She is doing so well! She just graduated from the beginner's obedience training this past week! This is done in order for German shepherd owners who are looking to have their German Shepherd Dog as part of their family, but are unable or unwilling to have the German Shepherds that are required for Police work. This combination has many positive points, one of which being the qualities both breeds share. For example, both German shepherds and golden retrievers make great guard dogs. They are protective by nature and will protect you if they sense danger. If this sounds like your type of canine companion then read on to learn more about how you can find golden retriever cross German shepherd puppies for sale, German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix puppy for adoption and German shepherd Golden retriever mix dog breeders. Parent Dogs: The German Shepherds are extremely intelligent dogs with a strong desire to work, which makes them great candidates for police or working-dog duties. They were originally bred in the German state of Bavaria during the 19th century to herd sheep, guard property and act as an all-purpose farm dog. German shepherds are extremely loyal and protective of their owners; you could even say they sometimes overreact about protecting you if they sense danger. This loyalty has also turned German shepherds into popular family pets today. Golden retrievers on the other hand were developed by hunters in Scotland during the 19th century as a gundog. Golden retrievers were bred to be an obedient and loyal dog, which meant they made great companions for hunters who needed a dog that could fetch lost game and return it without damaging the meat! While German shepherds make great guard dogs and golden retrievers make great hunting and retrieval dogs, German shepherd and Golden Retriever cross breeds or German Shepherd Golden retriever mix can bring together the best qualities of both breeds — obedience, loyalty, friendliness — into one pup! If not provided with enough exercises German shepherds can become destructive and hard to handle. German shepherds are a large breed so they require a significant amount of daily exercise, but Golden retrievers have been developed as family dogs throughout the years and have retained their desire to please people which also makes them great candidates as working dogs. This breed was originally bred in Germany by crossing German Shepherds with Golden Retrievers because the dogs were used to work on police and military duty. They were later exported to America in the s but this did not stop them from becoming popular across the world. A German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix is a wonderful type of dog to have. If you live in a temperate climate, this type of German shepherd mix is the perfect size for roaming around your yard and playing fetch. Golden Shepherds can be quite energetic, but they are very smart dogs. They are sweet and will make wonderful companions. They are active, trainable, obedient and intelligent; they often make perfect military or police working dogs. They will even be good with children if the owner trains them early enough between months old. This breed is popular because it can fit into many types of households without any problems. They only sleep about 10 hours every day and will fit right into your lifestyle. German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mixes are usually very protective of their owners and will fiercely protect both children and the home front from strangers. They can be trained as police dogs, guide dogs, search and rescue dogs or as pets. Physical Appearance Golden Shepherd is a medium-sized dog with long golden fur. You might find that the Golden Shepherd has the same appearance as other dogs, but because its hair can be difficult to maintain, it should not grow too long because you will notice the difference in the physical appearance immediately. German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix is one of the most popular family pets around the world, along with Labrador retriever family pet parents. The Golden Shepherd has a nice square face that covers its nose and jaws. Its ears are small and medium in size, listening to the instructions given by caregivers closely. Golden Shepherds have a long neck with good length. When seen from above, the head of the ear is slightly pointed down towards his eyes. This shape looks like an inverted triangle when viewed from above. Their hair can be short or long depending on your preference as their caregiver. Some people say it will look better if their hair is longer because they give them an elegant look. Basically, they are one of the best family pets, caring, loving, and loyal. They are highly intelligent too which makes them always fun to play with kids or other pets in the house. Temperament of a German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix can be easily trained as both breeds are easy to train breeds. These dogs are good-looking, friendly with children, make them the perfect choice for your family. A German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix has a high activity level so sometimes these dogs need extra physical activities to keep them free from boredom. German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix can be easily trained as both breeds are easy to train breeds. They are active, friendly and love both children and other dogs! A quick note about their care requirements- these pups require someone who will be with them all day due to separation anxiety which you can take steps towards solving by creating an environment that does not make the animal feel alone or suddenly abandoned when left at home for long periods such as taking them out regularly. This individual needs regular exercise such as running around with friends after work; this helps release endorphins making it more likely one would stay healthy. However, like any other dog, they can become ill and it is important that you do everything possible to ensure your pet remains healthy and happy for as long as possible. Common Health Issues Of German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix No breed is perfect and the popularity of a certain breed only means that there will be more dogs with problems. German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix is one of the most popular dog breeds in the US, with over 30 years ranking first among all breeds registered with the American Kennel Club. The most common problem in German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix is hip dysplasia, which can cause lameness and arthritis later on. If possible, buy from a good breeder who has tested their animals for hip problems. You can also have your own dog tested when it is old enough. The German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix is generally a healthy breed, but there are some conditions from either side of the family that may develop. Some of these include: Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus GDV — formally known as bloat — where the stomach becomes extremely enlarged and twisted, this is fatal if not treated immediately; owners should know the symptoms and be prepared for an emergency situation or know what signs indicate this condition so they can seek medical attention at once if their pet exhibits them. The causes for this life-threatening problem are still unknown but it mostly affects deep-chested dogs like the German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix. Hip Dysplasia — dogs with this condition will walk with a peculiar gait that is noticeable once you know what to look for; they often have difficulty rising from sitting positions and seem uncoordinated. There are many possible causes but if your dog suffers from hip dysplasia it can significantly reduce his quality of life by causing him pain and discomfort, it may also shorten his lifespan. Osteochondritis Dissecans OCD — this sounds very complicated but all it really means is that the articularilage of the joints does not fully cover the ends of the bones; it is more common in large breed dogs like the German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix. You should brush your pet daily so you can find out if the problem lies with his diet because there may be no need to wash him more often than usual. Best Diet For German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix The German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix is a large to giant dog with an average weight of 65 pounds and 20 inches in height, but the designer dogs are known for their flexibility in terms of size. So, what kind of diet does your pooch require? Well, there are some things you should know about his age, breed, and health condition if any… which will help you decide how many calories he needs on a daily basis. Golden Shepherds are known to be more active than the average family pet. A Golden Shepherd loves to exercise- more or less- depending on its energy level. Also, keep in mind that she will need more calories as she grows older. Sometimes these foods can harm your pet. Adult German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix should be fed 3 times a day. However, if he eats very slowly, you might consider adding 1 or 2 extra meals because the German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix has a tendency for over-eating which can lead to obesity very quickly. Obesity is harmful to any dog breed and can decrease its lifespan drastically even by 5 years. In fact, the German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix has a double coat which means he will blow his undercoat once or twice per year and lose huge amounts of hair in the process. This makes him a poor choice for those who suffer from allergies as it can be difficult to control dander and loose hair around your home. However, these dogs do tend to require less grooming than many other breeds as their coats are not as long as those on certain other working breeds like the German shepherd. Brush them only occasionally with a firm bristle brush; if you brush too often you may cause their coats to become matted. They are likely to be shy when they are young but with the right training, owners can help them become more confident in new situations. These animals will benefit from early socialization with lots of different people, dogs, children, cats, strange noises etc. Make sure you start this process as soon as possible after bringing your dog home. Exercise Needs Any dog, particularly a working breed like the German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix, enjoys a daily exercise in the form of walks or interactive play with its owner. A German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix will need at least 30 minutes to an hour of exercise every day with his family. This dog needs time to run off-leash in a securely fenced area where he can explore new territory and work his muscles. Owners should never let their pets roam around unsupervised even if they are believed to have a good recall off-leash. It is also advisable that you take the German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix for a long walk or hike each day to satisfy his need for exercise and additional stimulation from the environment around him. This dog will make a wonderful hiking companion as he loves being outside with his family, particularly on sunny days when he can frolic in the snow or swim in a lake. But owners should always remember to bring water along as some dogs may become dangerously overheated after an excessive amount of physical activity. Working on training new obedience commands or tricks is the perfect way to keep your pet busy while satisfying his primal instincts. First of all, know that there is no one perfect method to train every dog in the world. Each dog has its own temperament and personality, it responds better to some methods rather than others. The instruction manual for dogs does not exist because each dog is unique. Therefore, when working with your German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix, you have to remember that even if I give you a bunch of tips here, they may or may not work for your dog. You will need to play around with the methods and see what works best for your new four-legged friend. Second, you must understand that although Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds are both known as intelligent breeds, they come from different worlds. The Golden Retriever is an English breed and was bred to retrieve birds this explains their willingness to please and obedience , while the German Shepherd comes from Germany and was originally used by shepherds hence his protective instincts. Therefore, due to their origin and original task, these 2 dogs behave in completely opposite ways. For example, retrievers such as Golden Retrievers are used for hunting for birds in the sky, so they love taking things away and playing with them. Shepherds, on the other hand, were originally working dogs who needed to be aware of their surroundings at all times. This is why you should do as much as you can to train your German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix during his first 6 weeks of life or even earlier. His behavior will form during this period and anything that is not learned by then will become more difficult to teach later. On the other hand, if he learns something now it will be harder for him to unlearn it! Even though puppies are born with their eyes closed, they can still see just like cats and they start learning everything about their environment right away. Use this time wisely… Give him some space but make sure he knows where home is! This way he will learn how to find you when you call him or otherwise he may go looking for you when. You cannot imagine how often I see dogs who are lost because they followed a car or bike and never came back! Teach your puppy to walk on a leash as soon as possible, this will come in handy when you take him for a walk. This way he will learn how to behave around other dogs and people. This is because they are intelligent and have a lot of strength. The hybrid is also very easy to train because they use positive reinforcement training. The German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix is an ideal pet for people who do not want messy fur, drool or shedding because this hybrid does not suffer from any of these issues. They are also great with kids, other pets and strangers because they are naturally protective but will get along with anyone. The German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix is an extremely smart dog that would be great for active people. This is also the perfect breed if you live in a cold climate or if you want a dog that can work in the police or military. They are strong, loyal and easy to train. These dogs are beautiful, strong and intelligent which makes them very easy to train. They use positive reinforcement training methods that most people find effective. The German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix is an extremely smart dog that would be perfect for active people who enjoy working out because this hybrid combines the best features of both their parents. One of the main pros of this breed is that they have incredible leadership skills so they are trusted by police officers on duty in some parts of the world. Cons Of Having German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix Training and Socialization is a must with this breed, if not done correctly they can become aggressive towards people or other dogs, they are very protective of their family which can make them aggressive towards friends, strangers etc. They require a lot of exercise in order to burn off the excess energy they have. They are very intelligent dogs and can be stubborn at times which makes training them more difficult, if not done correctly it could lead to aggression towards other animals or people. They require a lot of attention and most likely will not be good for you and your family if you are gone often, they do not like to spend time alone. They can also become bossy or pushy which can lead to aggression unless the owner is able to control the dog. Another con is that they shed a lot although it is not as much as a German Shepherd, if you are looking for a low shedding breed this might not be the best match. If done correctly they can become the best dogs to own but if not they can become quite destructive or even dangerous towards strangers or other animals. Keep in mind that every dog is different so what applies to one may not apply to another. Take everything you hear about breeds with caution because there are always exceptions out there. For example, you can save money on spaying or neutering fees, and your pet will already be housebroken when it gets home. Additionally, the German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix is known for being highly intelligent dogs who tend to get along well with children. It takes work, study, knowledge about genetics, and much more to produce healthy, happy dogs when crossbreeding. Unfortunately, not everyone who does their research ends up with a healthy pup. They may get a pet worthy of a loving home or a stud for a breeding program but they may also get an unhealthy hybrid whose life can be cut short by genetic problems. No one wants that. As one of the most popular hybrids, the German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix is recognized as a hybrid of the world famous German shepherd and Golden retriever. This dog is usually referred to as a breed that has many talents. By studying more about this dog you will quickly realize that this is not only an intelligent but very loyal family pet with a good temperament. The father is always a German Shepherd and the mother can be either a purebred Golden retriever or another crossbreed such as Irish Setter, Labrador retriever, Siberian Husky, Labrador retriever, or any other breed with similar characteristics. This is a very popular dog breed that gained instant fame among celebrities, professional athletes, and ordinary people alike. The Golden Shepherd tends to be a friendly, energetic, and affectionate dog that is loyal to their family and tends to be protective of them. Although they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable organizations like the American Canine Hybrid Club, Designer Breed Registry, and more. A Golden Shepherd tends to bring the all-around friendly personality of the Golden Retriever and the intelligence and devotion of the German Shepherd into one dog. They love their families and tend to get along with everyone including children. These dogs are not necessarily suspicious of strangers, but they are alert and will tend to bark if they see something they feel you need to know about. Golden Shepherds are moderately adaptable dogs. Because they are high-energy, they tend to do better in homes with yards where they can run. They can adapt to apartment living as long as plenty of time is dedicated to giving them the daily exercise they need. They tend to do well in most climates. But, as with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Because Golden Shepherds are devoted to their families and thrive on spending time with them, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. A mixed-breed dog can inherit the potential health issues common to one, both, or neither of their parent breeds. As a larger, barrel-chested dog breed, the Golden Shepherd, like their parent breeds, is also at a higher risk for bloat. The Golden Shepherd is a highly trainable dog breed. They are intelligent, eager to please, and pick up on things quickly. This makes them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Puppy training classes can still be a great idea because they offer opportunities to socialize a puppy while also strengthening your bond with them. The Golden Shepherd will have a thick double-coat that sheds moderately year-round and more heavily twice a year as seasons change. A quick daily brushing, especially during seasonal shedding sessions, will help remove loose fur to make your dog more comfortable and also help keep more fur contained to a brush instead of everywhere else. Bathing is on an occasional, as-needed basis. Monthly nail trims are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long or causing issues. Plus, if anything is starting to happen, you can get the vet before it gets more serious. Because many dog owners overlook this, gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal. The Golden Shepherd comes from two high-energy dogs, so they require a lot of daily exercise to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime and time to run are the minimum. But, a Golden Shepherd will likely be up for more activity if you are. A trip to the dog park for some off-leash time, playing frisbee or chasing a ball, hiking, swimming, running, and more can all help this dog expend some extra energy. You want to keep their activity low-impact as they are still growing, but once they finish growing, try different activities to see what you both love doing together. You could even try training them for dog sports! A fully-grown Golden Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. A Golden Shepherd generally lives for years. Currently, we do not have any Golden Shepherd puppies available, but we can alert you when new Golden Shepherd puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! 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The German Shepherd Rescue Trust is a volunteer organisation providing complete care for unwanted, abandoned, neglected and stray German Shepherd dogs and puppies while actively seeking permanent, loving homes for these homeless pets. Any health problems are also addressed while the German Shepherd is in foster care. The Rescue Trust is based in Auckland however there are many Lucky Dogs currently living in wonderful, permanent homes throughout the North and South Island. Homes Needed — we have German Shepherds ranging in age from puppies to senior dogs waiting for the ideal permanent home so if you are seeking a beautiful large breed dog as a companion simply complete our online dog Adoption Application form and we will contact you. Check out our Faces of Rescue for some great photos and rescue stories. How can you help? We are always looking for caring foster homes that are able to sometimes take dogs on short notice. Foster duration time can vary between just a couple of days, through to a couple of weeks. On the odd occasion it has been necessary to have a dog in foster care for a few months. Reasons for extended time in foster care vary, it could be just while they recuperate from being desexed, or time to get some of the abuse victims back to physical health and get them to learn to trust again. All dogs who come into GSD Rescue are vet checked, vaccinated and neutered before placement. There is a lot of travelling to check out potential homes and to transport the dog to that new home. All this costs money, which means some dogs cannot be saved due to lack of funds. If you can help us in a financial way or donate some of your time then please take a look at our Make a Donation area. We would also like to extend our sincerest gratitude to Our Sponsors , who help make the Rescue Trust a possibility every day. Due to the popularity of our calendars we are now taking pre-orders for next years GSD Rescue Calendar. Please do not hesitate to read our FAQs or Contact us if you have any questions, or email us directly at info gsdrescue. We are strong supporters of networking and encourage like-minded Websites to exchange Links with us. If you believe your Website meets our criteria then Submit your site for review. Black, blue, grey, liver, sable, white or bi-colored most commonly black and tan German Shepherd Temperament: Smart and Self-Assured Because this watchful, self-assured breed is nearly unmatched in intelligence, German Shepherds excel in high-pressure jobs that require next-level problem solving, like search and rescue or police work. These extremely confident dogs are also keen observers and thinkers who have an uncanny ability to make decisions and problem-solve on the fly. Though German Shepherds might seem aloof around strangers, they bond easily with their families and are incredibly loving companions. A hallmark of the German Shepherd temperament is great loyalty to their people. Known to be protective of their family and territory, thorough socialisation at a young age is important to prevent reactivity to people and other dogs. So, are German Shepherds good family dogs? These pups are wonderful family dogs when matched with a household that understands their needs. Keeping German Shepherds Healthy: 5 Issues to Watch Out For While these dogs are known to be relatively healthy, there are a few health problems specific to the breed which pet parents should be aware of. Recognising German Shepherd health issues early on means owners can seek treatment sooner. When choosing your German Shepherd breeder, be sure to ask about any known genetic health problems in their breeding dogs. Joint Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are diseases that lead to irregular growth and development of the hip and elbow, which can predispose the joint to early onset arthritis. Bloat: Bloat is an emergency, life-threatening condition that affects deep-chested dogs like German Shepherds. This condition causes the stomach to twist and lose blood supply, which can lead to death if not surgically treated immediately. Bloat can be prevented surgically and by feeding multiple, smaller meals. Degenerative Myelopathy: Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive, incurable disease in which the nerves of the spinal cord cease functioning, leading to loss of mobility and feeling, first in the back legs, and then in the front legs. Megasophagus: Megaesophagus is a debilitating genetic condition that affects the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. Affected dogs regurgitate food after eating, and puppies with megaesophagus usually are the runt of the litter or exhibit a failure to thrive. Perianal Fistula: The symptoms of perianal fistula include draining wounds on the skin surrounding the anus, straining to defecate, excessive licking at the affected area, diarrhoea or bloody stool. Treatment is available, and may include therapeutic foods. Talk to your vet about suitable Royal Canin Vet Diets for your dog. Here are the basics on how to take care of your German Shepherd Dog. Grooming: Be forewarned: German Shepherd shedding is moderate—but also continuous. They also shed heavily twice a year. To reduce shedding, brush your German Shepherd several times a week, and daily during the heavy shedding times, specifically spring and autumn. Using a deshedding tool or rake will be essential during this time. Bathing , unless your dog is heavily soiled, is not recommended more than once a month, with some kennel clubs recommending once every months. Shaving a German Shepherd is not recommended. You should also brush your pup's teeth daily to keep bad breath and tartar away. Studies show that dogs live longer and experience less disease if they are not overweight or obese. As for the best dog food for German Shepherds, look to large breed dog food that is uniquely formulated to support the bone and joint needs of big dogs. German Shepherd adult dogs benefit most from eating a complete and balanced large-breed dog food, like Royal Canin Maxi Adult or you can feed a German Shepherd breed specific food such as Royal Canin German Shepherd dry dog food. It is crucial to not overfeed German Shepherd puppies because it can predispose them to health problems. You can avoid many future problems by feeding German Shepherd puppies appropriate amounts of large-breed puppy food, like Royal Canin Maxi puppy food or breed specific food such as Royal Canin German Shepherd dry puppy food. Use the feeding chart on the bag as a guide, or ask the PetDirect Customer Care Team how much to feed your particular puppy. Exercise: The smart and active German Shepherd Dog breed requires a lot of daily exercise, both physical and mental. Invest in a good quality harness and lead such as these from the EzyDog range. If your German Shepherd enjoys water, teach them to swim they are not natural-born swimmers for a fantastic low-impact exercise. Exercises such as agility, herding or flyball provide both physical and mental exercise for this intelligent and agile dog. Then you can supplement with interactive dog toys , learning tricks and playing games like hide-and-seek. German Shepherd puppies require less-strenuous exercise than adults in order to grow properly, so talk with your veterinarian for exercise recommendations for your pup. Like all dogs, German Shepherds should be trained using gentle, dog-friendly, positive-reinforcement training. German Shepherds are eager learners that pick up new skills quickly, which allows handlers to speed through the German Shepherd training process. Have some healthy treats on hand as a special reward. Thanks to their breeding, German Shepherds are creative thinkers and they require consistent and ongoing education to keep them constructively engaged. Left to their own devices, German Shepherds can use their great intelligence for less-than-desirable purposes, like destructive behaviours. The mental exertion that occurs during training helps, as well as training games that utilise their natural abilities. You can also try interactive puzzles to engage their problem solving skills. German Shepherds are willing to serve their pet parents, so if you decide to get one, put yours to work! Top picks for your German Shepherd OK. We get a lot of enquiries about puppies and breeders on here. Sadly we have have been made aware of quite a number of people that paid top dollar for what was advertised as a purebred German Shepherd, but they have ended up with a mixed breed. Registered breeders have official pedigree paperwork via Dogsnz membership with three or four sometimes more generations listed. They are important to show you that your beloved dog is what you paid top dollar for and not mixed with some other breed. Not a huge cost to a breeder to ensure they are selling what they state they are selling. Also, if an ad states that their vet has thoroughly checked the dogs over, insist on the evidence. This cant possibly tell of any underlying problems. You seriously must make sure you see these items. So many unscrupulos breeders are relying on the fact that you wont ask. Its too late once you have your puppy home. Save yourself the heart break. You are spending alot of money. Dont be sold by sweet characters or flamboyant ads. Buy on evidence!!! Make sure you see it. This was evident in recent media reports about a notorious registered puppy mill. Their 5K puppies had and still have numerous ongoing health issues. There are a wide range of temperaments. There are many different "breeding lines" of German Shepherds each bred for a different purpose and a different temperament. If you want a family companion, you do not want high energy working lines. If you want a dog to compete within the sport of schutzhund a protection dog sport , you do not want show lines. They have the beauty and the brains. With German Shepherd dogs more than most other breeds, you must know what you want long before you start calling or visiting breeders. You need to ask the right questions. Otherwise you might end up with a German Shepherd that isn't at all what you were looking for - and possibly an individual who is too much for you to handle. Tammie specializes in German Shepherd dogs. Please see the Facebook link at the bottom of this information to her Facebook Page to make contact. To make your search even more challenging, a good number of German Shepherd dogs are badly bred. VonGecse German Shepherd dogs do not breed regularly and puppies are brought up in a family environment within our house and socialised with our sheep, chickens, cattle and cat! General health problems. As a long-time German Shepherd dog owner, I know first-hand how many health problems this breed suffers from. Crippling hip and elbow dysplasia, stomach disorders, skin diseases and degenerative myelopathy DM. When looking for a breeder - please ensure that they x-ray the hips and elbows of all their breeding dogs. The x-rays need to be done by the vet and sent to a reputable radiologist service specialising in scoring hips and elbows. Also it is highly recommended that all breeders test for DM Degenerative Myelopathy Insist on seeing the clinical results. A little research into these things can save a lot of heart break in the long run.VonGecse German Shepherd dogs are professionally tested and are DM free and have excellent hip and elbow scores!! Heavy shedding. German Shepherd dogs have only one shedding period a year - and it lasts for days! In other words, they shed constantly. You will find hair all over your clothing, furniture and carpets. Frequent vaccuming will become a way of life! Socialization requirements. Most German Shepherd dogs have protective instincts toward strangers. They need extensive exposure to friendly people so they learn to recognize the normal behaviours of "good guys". Then they can recognize the difference when someone really does act abnormally. Without careful socialization, a German Shepherd may be suspicious of everyone. VonGecse German Shepherd dogs puppies have socialization with our extended family, friends and our community from the day they are born. They have socialization with our sheep, chickens, cattle and of course our cat. Some German Shepherd dogs have an inherited form of shyness. Dogs who are genetically shy can be helped a little bit by socialization - but not cured. Yet another reason to be very careful when acquiring this breed. Providing enough mental stimulation. German Shepherd dogs are so intelligent and capable. I hate to see them chosen by owners who just want a dog to hang around the house and yard. German Shepherd dogs thrive when they are given interesting things to do that will challenge their minds. Mental exercise advanced obedience classes, agility classes, schutzhund, tracking, herding is even more important for German Shepherd dogs. This is a smart, thinking breed at least the good ones are! They thrive on this kind of activity and mental stimulation. They must have physical outlets for their energy and mental outlets for their intelligent minds. Most obedience clubs also offer CGC training. An owner must become "pack leader" early in the relationship. Canine Good Citizens training. It identifies and rewards dogs that have the training and demeanour to be reliable family members as well as good-standing community members. It is open to all purebred and crossbred dogs. The purpose of the BHCGC Test is to ensure that our favourite companion, the dog, can be a respected member of the community because it is trained and conditioned to act with good manners in the home, in public, and in the presence of other dogs BHCGC training is fun and useful. Through it, you and your dog will establish a closer bond and your dog will have the added benefit of knowing how to please you. The test of your dog's manners and training is not a competition and does NOT require that you and your dog perform with precision. Who can participate? All dogs over the age of 12 months of age. Membership of Dogs NZ or member Club is not needed. Check our Frequently Asked Questions page for the answers to more of your questions. Note: Clubs can log in to the site to view the club FAQ on their club page. Certificates are available from Dogs New Zealand posted to the assessing club. Dogs will be registered onto a database. Dogs must be over 12 months of age. Dogs having been taught the following exercises may be eligible for assessment at a BHCGC registered club. To get full information regarding the exercises and requirements contact your closest BHCGC registered Dog training club as listed on this page. Appearance and GroomingFood mannersAccepting Friendly StrangersWalking in a controlled manner with distractions and through peopleStay tiedControl around other dogsThere will also be written questions for the owner. An average life span of a German Shepherd dog is 12 - 15 years. We will not risk placing a puppy into a persons home temporarily only to have that person need to leave the country to go back to their homeland. We also require a contract signed with an agreement that should the owner need to rehome their German Shepherd bred by us, that puppy will either come back to us to rehome or we will have input into where that puppy will go. If you do not agree with this, please do not request a puppy from us. Unfortunately, it's very difficult to find an ideal German Shepherd dog today. Nowadays, this breed is all over the map in temperament. Lines that are bred for protection work and the sport of schutzhund tend to be "hard-tempered" and businesslike. Show lines range from mild and mellow, to hyperactive and skittish, to downright dumb and dopey. And many German Shepherd dog puppies that are bred by backyard breeders have risky temperaments and suffer from a host of health problems along with their mothers whom have been bred back to back heats often having puppies at a time. Energy levels vary from vigorous to laid-back, but all German Shepherd dogs, to maintain their athletic shape, need brisk walking every day and all-out running in a safe, enclosed area as often as possible, once fully grown. Finally, early and ongoing socialization is a must to develop a stable, confident temperament. This starts with the breeder and continues once puppy is home. Puppy mills usually leave the bitch and pups alone most of the time in outdoor runs only having contact when feeding the puppies and bitch. The puppies end up with poor socialisation skills with humans and a fear of the world in general. Steer clear of these money hungry puppy mills. Most German Shepherd dogs are fine with other family pets, if introduced when young. However, some individuals are cat chasers, and many individuals are dominant or even aggressive with strange dogs of the same sex. One of the most capable and trainable breeds in all of dogdom, exceedingly eager to learn and work, an ideal German Shepherd dog, when well trained by a confident owner, is a magnificent companion. She specialises in German Shepherd dog issues. Please visit the group click on the blue "f" square just below , answer a few questions and join. Each hip can score from 0 best to a maximum of 53 worst and the hip score is the total of each hip added together. Therefore the best possible score is out of and the worst is or .The average hip score for the German Shepherd dog at present is a total of .Elbow ideals for breeding: The lower the score the better. Elbows are scored from a 0 to 3. Each elbow could have a different score. If a bitch has a 1. Ask to see hip and elbow scores of the parents when buying a puppy. Degenerative Myelopathy DM which is degenerative myelopathy and is a progressive disease of the spinal cord in older dogs. The disease has an insidious onset typically between 8 and 14 years of age. It begins with the loss of coordination in the hind limbs. The affected dog will wobble when walking, knuckle over or drag their feet. All our dogs are tested for DM. If a bitch is a DM carrier then it is ok to breed her with a dog that is "clear" as puppies will be ok. Ask to see DM test of parents to ensure your pup will not be affected by this horrible condition. Jade and Joe racing each other. Joe would have won! Amendments were made to the standard during the 6th meeting of the association on the 28th July , during the 23rd meeting in Cologne on the 17th September , by the Board of Directors and Advisory Committee in Wiesbaden on the 5th September , and at the Board of Directors and Breed Committee meeting on 25th March .The German Shepherd Dog, whose planned breeding commenced in the year after the founding of the German Shepherd Dog Club in Germany, was bred from central German and southern German strains of existing herding dogs with a final goal of creating a working dog predisposed to a high working aptitude. In order to reach this goal the breed standard was laid down which relates to physical attributes as well as those of temperament and character. In order to reach this goal the breed standard was laid down which relates to physical attributes as well as those of temperament and character The American Kennel Club Standard says the German Shepherd "has a distinct personality marked by direct and fearless, but not hostile, expression, self-confidence, and a certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships. The dog must be approachable, quietly standing its ground and showing confidence and willingness to meet overtures without itself making them. General Appearance: The German Shepherd Dog is medium size, slightly elongated, strong and well muscled, the bones are dry and the overall construction firm. Temperament: The German Shepherd Dog must be of well balanced temperament, steady of nerves, self assured, absolutely at ease except when provoked and good natured as well as attentive and easy to train. He must possess instinctive drive, resilience and self confidence in order to be suitable as a companion, watch dog, protection, service and herding dog. The forehead is only slightly domed when viewed from front and the side and without any or only slightly indicated central furrow. The breadth of the skull corresponds approximately to its length. The skull viewed from above tapers evenly from the ears to the nose with a sloping, not sharply defined stop, into the wedge shaped foreface muzzle. Upper and lower jaws are strongly developed. The top of the muzzle is straight, a dish faced or convex curve is not desired. The lips are tight, well fitted and of a dark colour. The nose must be black. Eyes: The eyes are of medium size, almond shaped, slightly oblique and not protruding. The colour of the eyes should be as dark as possible. Light piercing eyes are not desirable as they detract from the expression of the dog. Ears: The German Shepherd Dog has erect ears of medium size that are carried upright and almost parallel not tilted inwards. They taper to a point and are set with the orifice to the front. Tipped ears and drop ears are faulty. Ears carried laid back, during gaiting or when at rest are not faulty. Mouth: The dentition must be strong, healthy and complete 42 teeth conforming to the dentition formula the German Shepherd Dog has a scissor bite that is, the incisors must fit scissor:like to each other so that the incisors of the upper jaw overlap those of the lower jaw in a scissor fashion. Level, over or undershot bites are faulty, as well as large gaps between the teeth. It is a fault when the incisors are placed in a straight line in the gums. The jawbones must be strongly developed so that the teeth are embedded deeply in the gum line. Neck: The neck should be strong, and well muscled and free from throatiness dewlap the angle to the body horizontal is approximately 45 degrees. Forequarters: The forelegs are straight viewed from all sides, and when viewed from front must be absolutely parallel. The shoulder blade and upper arm are of equal length and firmly attached to the body with strong musculature. The angulation of the upper arm and shoulder blade ideally should be at 90 degrees but generally up to degrees. The elbows must be neither turned in nor turned out while in stance or in movement. The forearms when viewed from all sides are straight and absolutely parallel, dry and firmly muscled. The pastern is approximately one third of the length of the forearm and has an angle of approximately 20 degrees to 22 degrees to the forearm. Both infirm more than 22 degrees as well as steep pasterns less than 20 degrees restrict the working ability of the dog and in particular its endurance. Body: The topline flows from the set on of the neck, over the high long withers and over the straight back to the slightly sloping croup without a noticeable break. The back is moderately long, firm, strong and well muscled. The loin is broad, short, strongly developed and well muscled. The croup should be long and slightly sloping approximately 23 degrees to the horizontal into the set on of the tail without disruption to the topline. The chest should be moderately broad; the underchest is as long as possible and well developed. The ribs should be moderately sprung, barrel:chested is equally faulty as slab sided. Hindquarters: The position of the hind legs is slightly set back, when viewed from rear the hind legs are parallel to each other. Upper and lower thighs are of almost equal length and form an angle of approximately degrees, the thighs are strong and well muscled. The hock joints are well developed and firm, the rear pasterns stand perpendicular under the hock joint. Feet: The front feet are rounded, well closed and arched. The pads are hard but not inflexible. The nails are strong and dark in colour. The hind feet are closed slightly arched; the pads are hard and dark in colour. The nails are strong, arched and also dark in colour. Tail: The tail extends to at least the hock joint, however, not beyond the middle of the rear pastern. It has slightly longer hair on the underside and is carried in a gentle hanging curve when relaxed. It can be carried higher when excited or during movement but not above the horizontal. Corrective surgery is forbidden. The limbs must be of such length and angulation that the hindquarter may be thrust well forward under the body and the forequarter reaches equally far forward without noticeable change to the backline. Any tendency towards over:angulation of the hindquarter decreases the firmness and endurance and therefore the dog's utmost working ability. Correct structural proportions and angulations result in a ground covering, low to the ground movement that gives the impression of effortless forward propulsion. With the head pushed forward and a slightly raised tail, an even, balanced and smooth trot, results in a gently curving and unbroken topline, running from the tips of the ears and over the neck and back through to the end of the tail. Coat: The German Shepherd Dog is bred in the coat varieties: stock coat and long stock coat, both with undercoat. The top coat should be long, soft and not close fitting, with feathering on the ears and legs, bushy breeches and bushy tail forming flags below. It should be short on the head including the inside of the ears, the front side of the legs, on the feet and toes, it is longer and heavily coated on the neck, almost forming a mane. The hair lengthens on the back of the legs to the pasterns or hock joints; and on the back of the thighs it forms distinct breeching. All black, grey commonly known as sables with dark shadings; black saddle and mask. Unobtrusive small white markings on chest as well as very light colour on insides of legs permissible but not desirable. The nose must be black in all colour types. Lacking mask, light to piercing eyes, as well as light to whitish markings on chest and inner sides of the legs, light nails and red tip of tail are to be rated as lacking in pigment. The undercoat is of a light grey toning. The colour white is not permitted. Sizes: Height at Withers - Dogs cm .Bitches cm .Bitches kg .Faults: Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog. Major Faults:Any deviations from the above described breed characteristics that impair the working ability of the dog. EarFaults - Laterally too low set ears, tipped ears, inward tilted ears, ears that are not firm. Severe lack of pigmentation. Severe lack in overall firmness. Dentition Faults:All deviations from a scissor bite and the dentition formula as far as it does not concern disqualifying faults see below Very Serious Faults:Weak character, aggression without provocation or nervousness. Dogs with proven severe Hip Dysplasia. Monorchids and cryptorchids, as well as dogs with clearly uneven or atrophied stunted testicles. Disfiguring ear or tail defects. Dogs with deformities. Dogs with missing teeth as follows:1 Pre:Molar 3, and one further tooth, or1 Canine, or1 Pre:Molar 4, or1 Molar 1, or1 Molar 2, or3 or more teeth altogether. Level bite in whole of the incisor area. White coat colour even with dark eyes and nails. Long Coat - Long, soft top coat without undercoat, usually with a parting down the middle of the back, flags on ears and legs and tail. Notes: Males must have two normally developed testicles fully descended in the scrotum. Any departure from the above points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog. History and Origins Country of Origin: Germany Originally a herding dog, although not in the way you may think — the German Shepherd works as a living fence, walking or running an invisible boundary between sheep and land they need to be kept from, keeping livestock where they are meant to be. If they spotted a sheep straying from the flock, they would silently move them back into the fold without barking — which would alarm the whole flock. Formed from a variety of different sheep-herding dogs, they can trace their origins back to the 7th Century. At this time the breed name was changed to the Alsatian in England and France to avoid this discrimination. Thankfully this is far in the past and the German Shepherd Dog has regained their original name. Health and Common Issues The German Shepherd dog is predisposed to a number of problems including gastrointestinal diseases, a specific stomach condition gastric dilation volvulus , a disease of the spinal cord and epilepsy. As with many other breeds, they can also suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia joint conditions that can be painful and lead to mobility problems. Hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important. The breed club monitor the health of the breed carefully and should be contacted for the most up-to-date information and details of any DNA or additional testing they recommend. Breed Clubs can be found on the Kennel Club website. Puppies require careful exercise to avoid damaging still developing joints. Lots of training and puzzle solving games will keep that sharp mind engaged productively. A bored or lonely German Shepherd is likely to be reactive, vocal and destructive! Space Requirements This is a big dog who takes a long time to physically mature and so is not suited to flats accessed by stairs or homes without access to a secure garden. Town or country will be fine, but plenty of space to walk, train and run freely is advisable. They will guard and so a busy urban environment can be too stimulating for them. Nutrition and Feeding Large breed dogs, as well as having large appetites, benefit from a different balance of nutrients including minerals and vitamins compared to smaller-breed dogs. The German Shepherd dog can be prone to bloating and stomach problems; smaller, more frequent meals can help minimise this risk. Grooming German Shepherd Dog Grooming should be done several times a week, with a vigorous brushing to remove any dead or loose hairs. If it is a longhaired German Shepherd dog, combing will also be necessary. No trimming is required and bathing should only be done as needed. This is a shedding dog but the more you groom them, the less they will shed. Training German Shepherd Dog Early and consistent socialisation is vital to ensure the GSD grows up confident and happy in a variety of situations with people, other animals, livestock and children. This is a breed that needs to be sourced form a breeder who understands the importance of early habituation and socialisation with this potentially reactive breed. Easy to train if you employ kind reward-based training methods. Patience is needed as the GSD is slow to mature and often suffers from looking like an adult physically long before their brain has matured! A well-trained GSD is capable of most jobs, sports or activities — in fact one of the first non-herding and non-military uses for the GSD was as Guide Dogs for the Blind. Best Family Dog Breeds A German Shepherd Dog from a breeder who focuses on temperament and health makes an excellent family pet if you have the time to dedicate to training, exercise and vacuuming up shed hair. Possibly a little too boisterous and large for homes with tiny children or frail older family members. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them. German Shepherd Dogs have had many jobs, one of the least well known however was as guide dogs for the blind, and the GSD was preferred as their height made them very suitable for blinded ex-military men, who would have found the Labradors and Golden Retrievers and their mixes too short! They are still used today for taller people but the amount of hair they shed makes them less popular. He made 26 films, had his own radio show and even his own private chef! German Shepherds are super intelligent and can learn new tricks and behaviours in only a few repetitions. After the World Wars, Americans and Europeans were very concerned about anything German so their named was changed to Alsatian Wolf Dogs, some still refer to them by that name today. The German Shepherd is incredibly popular and are the second most registered breed by the American Kennel Club after the Labrador Retriever. Similar Breeds:. View the Scrapbook der Ingolsta kennels are dedicated to the German Shepherd breed, we have been a member of the NZ Kennel Club since and bred our first litter in and have a reputation of breeding quality animals with superior temperament and working lines, Excellent for show, agility, obedience and great family companions for all ages, Our aim is to attempt to better the breed in all aspects, which means, continually importing quality NEW proven bloodlines, as our gene pool is so small in NZ, this, then should prevent any problems that inbreeding can cause. All our breeding stock go thru an extensive Veterinary examination which includes xraying hips and elbows and DM testing. These xrays are then sent to Australia to go thru the process of being scored and approved for breeding. We live in a country enviroment therefore the puppies have access to free running in there up bringing, they are reared on a Royal Canin which is a Quality Super Premium Dry formula and is a total balanced food and certainly gives them the excellent start in life that they require. They also go thru a full Veterinary check, vaccination and tattooed prior to leaving us to go to their new homes. Our very first German Shepherd we owned was was a full working dog on a farm that had pedigree jersey bulls, milking cows and sheep and she loved the challenge everyday working with the stock on the farm. In we purchased our very first show dog which was more of the family's very best mate than a show dog but he used to love to get out and strutt his stuff in the ring and he certainly got us really hooked into the breed For many more pics to peruse take a look at our scrapbook on the top right hand corner of this page. We also have another website you can click on, also at the top right of this page. Copy url URL Copied! The defendants were found guilty of 32 charges brought under the Animal Welfare Act , and were sentenced today following a three-week Judge alone trial at the Manukau District Court in January. One of the defendants was sentenced to nine months' supervision and the other was sentenced to 12 months' supervision, hours community work and judicial monitoring. SPCA was contacted after concerns were raised about the welfare of many of the dogs housed at the breeding kennel the pair operated. When SPCA Inspectors first visited the large rural property, more than 60 dogs and puppies were discovered, many of which were tied up by short leashes and choker chains without access to water, shelter or behavioural enrichment. For those that were housed inside or in kennel runs, the ground where they lay was covered in urine and faeces. In one enclosure, there was such a buildup of faeces that the dogs were struggling to walk without skidding in their own filth. SPCA later returned to the property to seize other dogs and puppies, including two pregnant females — one of which was found locked in a dark, dirty shed inside a cargo crate. Inspectors agreed that the most concerning dog they seized was an adult German Shepherd found tangled in her tether inside a cage with no water. The short leash was twisted tightly around her hind leg, forcing it into an extremely uncomfortable position up near her head. She had been unable to move for so long that the leg was swollen and when Inspectors freed her, she was unable to bear any weight on it. Sadly, the tight tether had also caused a major skin infection. She was in so much pain, discomfort and distress, she had to be euthanised. Months later, SPCA received information about several distressed dogs barking at an isolated piece of bush at the back of a rural property owned by the defendant. When Inspectors arrived at the scene, they found six German Shepherds tethered to trees, several kilometres from the main dwelling. The dogs were seized by SPCA, including one with a skin infection and another with an ear infection. A veterinarian determined the ear infection was chronic, untreated, and would have been causing considerable pain and distress. SPCA National Inspectorate Manager Alan Wilson says the case highlights the need for better regulation of the breeding industry, to ensure breeders maintain appropriate animal welfare standards and are held accountable for any breaches to those standards. While many breeders do treat their animals well, there are others that continue to operate under the bare minimum animal welfare standards, and some far below this. SPCA recommends that people adopt from reputable rescue organisations or accredited breeders. Anyone with animal welfare concerns is encouraged to contact SPCA. Latest news. So, you have decided that a German Shepherd is the dog for you A good choice. You will have a life long friend and companion that will protect you and your family. In return, you will have a responsibility to feed and provide warm shelter for your dog. Before you visit any litters, try to have some idea what you want to do with your dog. Do you want a male dog or a female bitch? Do you want to try showing, obedience, agility or tracking? Do you want to breed a litter yourself later on? Even if you are not contemplating any competitive work with your dog, some training will be needed to integrate your puppy into your household and this is covered in the domestic pets class at club. The following guidelines are designed to help the person who wants to buy a puppy for breeding purposes. However, all puppy buyers whether taking pick of the litter for showing, or the best puppy for obedience training or buying the last puppy left, will have the benefit of knowing that all puppies in the litter are bred and raised under the same conditions. That is: The parents are hip scored, the puppies are tattooed, fully vaccinated, wormed, registered etc. You should have contact with the mother of the puppies when you visit the litter. Some bitches can get a little possessive with their babies and you may have to see her away from her pups. Other bitches are happy for people to visit and take time out while you keep her babies amused. The puppies father will probably be owned by someone else and could even be in the North Island or Australia as is sometimes the case. Stud dog owners are more than happy to talk to you about their dog and for you to view the dog. Also take note of the breeders other dogs, how they behave and react. There could be other offspring from previous litters for you to look at and this gives you a good indication of what the mother can produce. The German Shepherd Dog is prone to hip displaysia and by responsible breeders hip x-raying and only using stock with good hips, the incidence of hip displaysia has been reduced. The puppies tattoo number is unique and is used to identify the puppy when: 1 The puppy is old enough to have a hip x-ray and the tattoo number is etched onto the plate to ensure the correct plate is submitted for the correct animal. If you want to show your puppy or breed later on, enter obedience, agility or trials, you will need to have your puppy registered. The breeder will normally register every puppy in the litter unless there is a valid reason not to. A set of pedigree papers should also be supplied along with feeding and exercise charts, vaccination certificates and worming timetable and any other information the breeder feels is necessary. Breeders cannot charge extra for pedigree papers but can charge different prices for an unregistered and registered puppy. COAT: The standard short coat is the only one that can be breed shown. Long coats can be entered into obedience, agility and trials competitions. The breeder will help with picking a puppy if you are interested in showing. And after considering all the above, you will then probably go home with the puppy that has chosen YOU and you had no say in the matter. Box Christchurch Club Captain's Cell:
Imagine you could come home to a lovable, dedicated, companion for life! If you knew what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy, you could find your next best friend. Before you buy your new best friend, read this information so you know what to look for in buying a healthy, quality German Shepherd puppy. I group them into major categories. Will you show him in conformation? Do you want to work with him in Schutzhund or herding? Or do you want a confident and alert companion? Know exactly what you want from your puppy. These dogs are the least costly since they have a trait that prevents them from winning in conformation competitions. These flaws rarely matter to most pet owners. And many minor faults like flat withers or slightly smaller offset ears will probably go unnoticed by most owners. The vast majority of GSDs are family pets. These dogs make great pets as long as they have sound temperaments! They breed some dogs for certain traits that are highly desirable but considered a fault. For example, long-coat or plush-coat GSDs. Show-quality dogs have good temperament and health. You usually buy them for their breed standard qualities that make them able to compete in confirmation or show events. A show-quality dog may cost significantly more if they have the traits desirable to win at a show. This group comes from Championship show lines with a long history of winning. If you plan on showing your Shepherd this is the quality you want. Beware of any breeder who claims they only raise competition-quality dogs. Even the best breeders produce many pet-quality dogs and if a breeder says they only breed perfect dogs, this is a red flag to not buy from them. The GSD is a herding breed, and the working-quality dogs excel at working trials such as scent competitions and Schutzhund. Other work includes climbing and jumping competitions or searching and tracking. They need mental stimulation to keep them occupied and take a lot of time to handle properly. These dogs are better with experienced handlers since you use them for high drive working and competition. They require hours and years of training and preparation for you to have total control during competition. We base this decision on preference. With the correct upbringing and training, both sexes are loyal companions and good with children. They may grow into more dominant dogs, so a confident handler is more desirable. Males may hike their back legs to mark their territory. This can occur on any object — chairs, walls, couches or even your leg. I suggest an extra bout of socialization during this stage, especially with other well-behaved dogs. So they may be better for the first-time owner. Unspayed females come into season every 6 months, so they must receive monitoring and watch to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Their season time can vary from as little as every 4 months to every 9 months. They can attract males to your property and on walks that will harass them if not spayed. Certain breeders and organizations will deal only in a certain coat length and color. The standard coat length is a short coat with double layers. Guard hairs on the top cover a softer underlayer of hair that provides warmth and protection. But there are many coat lengths available depending on your liking. Look online at the different GSD coat lengths to get an idea of what type of fur you want your dog to have. The longer the fur the more grooming involved. The color you choose is a matter of individual taste. Keep in mind the color of many Shepherds alters from their puppyhood to around 2 years of age. Your dog may become lighter or darker. Perhaps they will lose some of their markings as the color fades into the adult pattern. The best way to know what color and patterns your dog grows into is to see the parents of the litter. If the father is unavailable, then ask for photos. Why should you care where your dog comes from if you only want him as a pet companion? You want to get a dog that will live a long and healthy life from a source that has quality puppies. These tips will help you make the best decision on what type of pup fits in your life. Newspaper and Internet Classified Ads Newspaper and internet ads are in abundance. Many backyard breeders hide behind ads online or in local papers. But some breeders who use newspapers and classified ads are reputable and knowledgeable. The problem is you need to visit them to find out, and this can take time to sift through them all. Try the following more reputable suggestions to save yourself time. Dog Care Professionals Ask dog professionals for recommendations. Check with your local veterinarian, groomer, and boarding kennel personnel if they know reputable breeders in town. These professionals are good sources of quality leads. Use the same caution that you will for a classified ad. Verify their suggestions. Many of these organizations regularly receive puppies they need to re-home. While you might not know the full pedigree of the dog, purebred GSDs find themselves in shelters and rescues from no fault of their own. These organizations are a good resource for your first pup. Before adopting, find out as much information as you can. Was the puppy exposed to children? Did he live with other dogs or cats? A well-organized shelter or rescue helps you choose a German Shepherd match for your lifestyle. Start with looking online for GSD rescues and local shelters. Dog Clubs Dog clubs are local and national. These groups put you into contact with registered breeders through their own programs. They can give you the name of the GSD club contact closest to you for breed contacts. Dog clubs also have dog shows open to the public. This is a good time to watch the breed in action and to ask around for quality breeders. While using a dog club to connect you with a reputable breeder is not the only choice, it is one of the more reliable. If you are using a breeder to choose your German Shepherd puppy, this section will help you know the good from the bad. Use these tips to stay safe. Are selling overpriced or under-priced dogs. Lie to you and say you can make money off your new puppy by breeding them, despite them having flaws. Tells you that the GSD is a dog for everyone, with no disadvantages. Breeds multiple types of dogs and claims to be an expert on them all. If a breeder lets their mothers get pregnant more than once a year, this affects the quality of the puppies, so ask how many litters the mother has. These breeders selling unhealthy puppies also will refuse to take bag their dogs if you need to return them for any reason and have no contracts. They have healthy puppies and will answer your questions and have you make multiple visits. Openly show you where the mother and pups spend their time, including their garden or yard. Tells you the up and downs of owning the breed. Have all pedigree and vet paperwork on hand for your review. Specializes in breeding only GSDs source. They openly share this information with you. They have screened their dogs for health issues and can confirm this with documentation which they proudly give you a copy. Healthy mothers are given rest from breeding, and a reputable breeder gives their mothers time off from reproduction. Ask if your breeder if they are willing to take back their dogs if you cannot keep them, as this is standard for a quality breeder with a good reputation. Make sure your breeder has a written contract with detailed information and health guarantees. These are expected for safe breeding practices. How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy Following this guide gives you the best chance of buying a German Shepherd puppy that suits your lifestyle. Know what you want from your GSD and where to find quality dogs. Learn what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy to stay safe from a sick pup and a bad breeder. German Shepherds have their own unique set of challenges. They are a large, active, and intelligent breed that requires an understanding owner who is willing to train their GSD using positive techniques. Devote yourself to their overall health to see the best results and help give you and your dog a lifetime of happiness. Remember, your pup will need mental stimulation to keep their brain active , a gentle exercise program , and need daily love and affection. Buying a German Shepherd puppy is a choice for your whole life that will bring you many years of joy and excitement! Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Do further research into these local German Shepherd breed clubs in your area. Whether you get information from their websites or contact them directly for help, local breed clubs are a great way to get the names of reputable breeders in your area. Veterinarians come into contact with a lot of different types of animal care-givers, from breeders to shelters to individual owners. Because they know so much about animal issues in the community, it's a good idea to talk to a few vets in your area for ethical breeder recommendations. Also consider speaking to other German Shepherd owners, dog groomers, or dog trainers. If you visit a breed show, talk to owners and trainers about who they've had good or bad experiences with. A good breeder won't have a variety of breeds available for adoption. Look for a breeder who specializes only in German Shepherds. Your best option is to find a breeder who has years of experience with the German Shepherd breed. They should be able to answer your questions about development, temperament, and training easily and without hesitation. A key marker of a good breeder is the amount of effort they put into early socialization. Puppies need to be taught from an early age to live harmoniously with humans. If a breeder keeps litters isolated away from the home, the puppies will not be used to the sights and sounds of a normal household, and won't be used to human interaction. This can become a problem by the time they are old enough to be adopted. Make sure the puppies spend at least some time in the breeders' home with them. The more time they spend with humans, the more you can trust the breeder. An ethical breeder will never try to breed a female who hasn't reached sexual maturity — about 2 years of age. Mothers should also be given enough time to recover from pregnancies and being separated from their litters as they get adopted. Females should be healthy and alert. Never adopt a puppy from a breeder who breeds a young or unhealthy female, or who doesn't give mothers time to recover before breeding them again. Puppies should never be sold or separated from their mothers before 8 weeks of age. The breeder should have begun the puppies' vaccination and deworming processes before adopting them out. Make sure that's happened, and ask about any health problems the vet may have reported in these early checkups. Ask if the breeders have their dogs tested for the Degenerative Myelopathy DM gene. This can determine whether a common inherited disease in German Shepherds is present in the litter's bloodline. Dogs with DM suffer from progressive paralysis, particularly in the hind legs. Note that being AKC-registered does not mean that you are getting a healthy animal. It means that the owner paid money to the AKC to register the dog. While experts recommend against breeding animals with known genetic problems, an OFA certification will give you proof. Be aware, though, that there's no guarantee of health in any animal. There's always a chance that two dogs free of known genetic diseases can still produce a puppy with genetic problems. The breeder should be evaluating you as a potential owner, just as you're evaluating him or her as a breeder. No good breeder will just hand over a puppy without being sure that the new owners will be able to provide it with a good, healthy life. Ask the breeder what they look for in a good owner, and whether they've ever turned potential owners away. The breeder should be able to answer these questions without even having to think about it. You might also ask the breeder for references so you can contact other families who have dogs from previous litters. A reputable breeder should ask questions about your dog background and experience, your lifestyle, and your family to guide you in making the best decision. As difficult as it may be, a good breeder will be willing to turn you away if they think you're a bad fit for their particular puppies. For example, if the litter has particularly inactive parents, the puppies may not be a good fit for your highly active lifestyle. If you get turned away, ask if the breeder can point you to other options and litters so you can expand your search. Also ask if they have any unborn litters coming up that may be a better fit for you. Be patient and don't get discouraged. With enough patience and legwork, you'll find the right puppy. Don't lie to a breeder just to get a puppy, though. Trust the breeder's decision-making process. You don't want to end up with a dog who doesn't fit your needs. Avoid any breeder who offers to cut you a "deal," who has unclean or smelly kennels, or who acts suspiciously in any way. Trust your instincts. A breeder who's in it just for the money has the wrong motivation, and likely isn't interested in the welfare of their dogs. Make sure the dogs are not crowded into cages. They should have plenty of room to stumble around and explore their surroundings. Part of the time, puppies should be kept in the home to expose them to household environments. There should be adequate food and water for all animals on the premises. Kennels should be cleaned daily. Although it may be that a dog had an accident just before you arrived, be suspicious of a kennel that looks like it hasn't been cleaned recently. If a breeder doesn't have a return policy, it suggests they don't really care what happens to their dogs once they leave their property. That's not a good sign! Also find out what kind of documentation you would get with your puppy. Would you get registration papers and pedigree papers? Negotiate for what you want if it's not included in the contract. Be very wary of a breeder who will not discuss the chance that a puppy may need to be returned. Does the contract require you to take the puppy for a vet visit within a set time? Does it cover hereditary issues for life? For only a certain period of time? What does the breeder agree to offer? Trade for another puppy when one is available? Are there restrictions on the activities you can do with your dog that will invalidate the contract or guarantee? Are you purchasing a show prospect puppy or a pet quality animal? Does the breeder have strong feelings or even bans about the vaccinations, foods or supplements for your puppy? Are these opinions based on solid science? Of course, you have already read a lot of books with advice on how to choose the right puppy of a German Shepherd, east European, as well as a Newfoundland, Rottweiler, Spaniel, or Spitz puppy. You understand what is the fundamental difference between these breeds and why a Retriever puppy will never become a VIP bodyguard, and a black terrier will hardly ever pass for a draft husky. Why Opting For a German Shepherd Puppy Is a Good Choice The German Shepherd is prone to learning from a very young to deep old age, while many other breeds cannot boast of this, even if their appearance is more perfect than that of a German Shepherd. The most well-known characteristics that a German Shepherd owns are: pronounced protective and guarding instinct; the ability to make independent decisions, and active actions, and at the same time be completely submissive to the owner; sociability, playfulness, and curiosity; lack of aggression signs towards others and deep affection for the owner; a willingness to happily take on tasks, learn, and remain completely fearless when faced with unfamiliar surroundings or unforeseen difficulties; In addition, the Shepherd dog is calmly confident and features strong nerves, combativeness, and assertiveness which are the main qualities of a good service dog. Perhaps, due to this set of breed characteristics, few larger and more ferocious breeds can compete with a GS, both for guarding the house and as a personal protector. It is not recommended to take puppies under 4 weeks old from their mother. This applies not only to GSs but other breeds. At the age of one month, the baby has already been given all the necessary vaccinations. However, only a person who can devote a lot of time to raising a puppy can afford to take a Shepherd at such a young age. In addition to 6 meals a day, and socialization, the new owner will need to complete 1, different tasks, which require, above all, a lot of time. If there is no time, it is worth finding a puppy aged 4 to 6 months. And it is advisable to take such a teenager from a nursery that focuses on breeding German Shepherds and not all the breeds at once. It happens that a puppy stays in the nursery because the money deposit was given for it but, for some reason, people could not pick up the reserved puppy. If the grown-up German Shepherd puppy constantly lived in an aviary and was deprived of close contact with people and the outside world, owners who have not previously dealt with this breed should not choose such a youngster. These young dogs are for experienced cinologysts. Lack of socialization can be corrected but it cannot be fully eliminated. Testing for the Puppy and Its Future Owner You may already know how to choose a purebred German Shepherd by external signs under the age of 3 months. Simple tests will help you choose a puppy with the desired character. Visit the breeder at a predetermined time when the puppies do not sleep or, conversely, are not hungry. You are taking a future friend for life, and enthusiastic emotions with such a choice are inappropriate. When buying a new friend, inspect the litter meticulously. Pay attention to the following: eyes do not water; traces of diarrhea under the tails are not observed; wet noses are without purulent crusts; legs are straight and strong; fur is clean, reminding of the plush; on the skin under the coat, there are no signs of peeling and scabs; all puppies are active and well-fed; the body is elastic and strong to the touch; the puppy has a pleasant dog smell; the mother is not exhausted; bowls and bedding are clean; there is enough heat and light. Of course, the owner of the dog mother has already taken her to the next room. Those who paid attention to the unusual sound are yours. Throw carefully, of course a tennis ball at the puppies. Those who were not afraid and did not try to escape are yours. Those who, having scouted the situation, did not begin to whine , pressing themselves onto the floor, but hurried towards the bedding are yours. Pay attention to those who have shown interest in a new object. The best are those who took and dragged it. Keys and money are the dirtiest household items. This testing method was used 20 years ago. Today, it is dangerous for the health of puppies! Invite those who dragged the rubber duck to pull a piece of fabric. If the baby dog willingly starts the fight, not letting the cloth go when you pull it towards you, they are good boys or girls. Turn the puppy you like on its back and hold it with an open palm for a few seconds. A clear alpha leader is easy to identify by its non-calming behavior for seconds, and even trying to bite you in this position. It may not be your choice! You will get too many problems associated with the puppy, or it will never be possible to completely subdue it. The puppy that squealed, pulled back its paw, and did not lose its interest in you is yours. The one who barks trying to drive brothers and sisters away from the bowl is not for you. The one who gives up its place at the feeder is also not yours. Yours is the one who, regardless of the obstacles, has taken its place and calmly devours food, without moving from its point, snapping, and running around the bowl. Now, you have at best 2 or 3 puppies left in front of you. You need to select the fat-footed one who will try to get out through the opening without panic and squealing. The tests are simple, but they will allow you to select a good puppy and raise a real working German Shepherd from it without unnecessary costs and nerves. Talk to the breeder. Such puppies are sold at a more reasonable price, but the puppy card for them is mandatory to be filled out as well. If you are given puppies for free, in the absence of their mother, there is a reason to seriously consider whether it is a Shepherd dog at all, even if their mother has pedigree documents. This is not a dog of one owner! The versatility and flexibility of this breed are proven by the fact that GSs accept a new family and a new environment without any problems. The main thing for it is to have its own business — to serve a human! Of course, parting with the former owner seriously affects the condition of the dog, but it will not have a destructive effect on its psyche. And the sooner you engage the German Shepherd in work, the more chances you will have to become a new God for it. If the German Shepherd was properly brought up and grew up surrounded by people, it has working characteristics in good conditions, and the reputation of its previous owner is beyond all questions, such a dog will be quite useful to your family. Finding out the previous story and background of an adult GS why it is refused, what the complaints about its behavior are, and other prompting questions is a must! The reason may be the saddest and most trivial — the previous owner died, and relatives are not able to either support or care for the dog. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. This guide will help you learn how to select the best German Shepherd puppy to add to your family. Is a German Shepherd right for me? This is the first question you should ask yourself before you even consider bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy. You need to evaluate your personal and family lifestyle by asking yourself the following questions: Where do you live? German Shepherds are often on the restricted breed list for apartments. Do you spend much of your time at home, or do you have an active work and social life? Are you willing to spend more time at home on the weekends and evenings during puppyhood, even if it means missing social events? Do you love traveling a lot? If so, will you take your puppy with you? If not, do you have someone or someplace you trust to watch your dog when you travel? Is your whole family excited about the idea of a new German Shepherd puppy? Are you already active or willing to become more active? Do you have time in your schedule to devote to training? Knowing the answers to those questions will help get you a couple of steps closer to deciding whether or not a German Shepherd is the right choice for you. Important things to know about German Shepherds: German Shepherd dogs are sometimes affectionately known as German shedders. German Shepherds shed all year long , however, they blow their coats twice a year during which time they will shed exponentially more. When considering getting this breed, you should be comfortable having a dog that sheds. Trimming their nails , cleaning their ears, brushing their teeth, and brushing their coat regularly is sufficient. Of course, during the shedding seasons more frequent brushing will be needed. German Shepherds were originally developed for herding sheep. Accordingly, they have the desire to work and respond best to proper training from a young age, and an active lifestyle. German Shepherds are known to be clingy, so be prepared to have a shadow following you around the house and maybe even in the restroom. German Shepherds are good with kids and are great family dogs. However, they need proper socialization and training at a young age so they can learn how to behave around both kids and adults. German Shepherds require a lot of mental stimulation and have high energy levels, especially as a puppy. As much as I love Allie, she was more than a handful as a puppy. I have seen instances where people underestimate the time, energy, and training a German Shepherd puppy requires and get overwhelmed after bringing their puppy home. These people end up giving up their puppies. It breaks my heart to know these awesome dogs are given up because of a lack of knowledge when selecting a breed of dog. Although they are a handful if you are willing to put in the effort they are in my opinion one of the best breeds of dog to own. German Shepherds are too smart for their own good. They learn things scary fast and sometimes get themselves into trouble because of how smart they are. They learn your routine and habits, and they also learn when and how they can get away with mischief. German Shepherds are incredibly loyal and become very connected to their owners and family. German Shepherds are typically loving and affectionate. From the second I met Allie she greeted me with a wet tongue to the face. That is still her favorite greeting she will kiss anyone that will allow her to get close enough. German Shepherds need training. They need to know that you are the leader and in charge. If not, they will quickly take over the role of being in charge and that is where problems arise. A bored, untrained, not active German Shepherd can become one of the stories you sometimes hear on the news about a GSD being aggressive. In most of those cases, the problem was with the owners and not the dog breed as a whole. Adoption or Breeder? First, you need to decide if you are going to adopt a German Shepherd puppy or buy one from a breeder. Here are some of the benefits of adopting: Rescue puppies are often already sociable, at least partially trained, and loving dogs. Therefore, you will save a lot of time on house training your new puppy. Older puppies or dogs are likely to be calmer than a younger puppy. You are saving the life of a dog that might not have otherwise found a home. The cost of adopting is typically much cheaper than buying a puppy from a breeder. If you decide to get a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder, here are a few things that can help you identify a good, ethical German Shepherd breeder: Ethical breeders care about the health and wellbeing of the puppy and are not just in the business for money. Ethical breeders always make sure that only healthy dogs breed together and follow a strict breeding program where they ensure that breeding and puppy spaces are clean. They should also have papers showing the age of the parent and the family tree of the puppy. Ethical breeders will happily show you around their entire setup; they should have nothing to hide. Ethical breeders will happily answer as many questions as you have to ask. You want to select one that will be compatible with you and your family. Consider the following when picking a puppy from the litter: Choose a puppy that is sociable around you and other puppies. Pick a puppy that walks confidently with its head high and tail up and wagging. Choose a puppy that has clear eyes, ears , and teeth, walks evenly, and appears clean. Basically, choose a puppy that looks healthy. Look at the personalities of the puppies. Choose a welcoming puppy that wants to greet you as opposed to one that retreats or appears shy. Ask to interact with each puppy one by one after seeing them with their littermates. That way you can get a better sense of how the puppy responds to you without distractions. If possible, visit the litter at least three times before making a final decision, this will allow you to determine the personalities of each of those little fluff balls, and see which would best fit into your family. How old should a German Shepherd puppy be when you take it home? Any puppy should be at least 8 weeks old before being separated from their mother. By this timeline, their sensory organs will have also developed fully which will help you to spot any deformities or medical issues. Be wary of any breeder that will allow you to take your puppy home before 8 weeks old. How do you puppy proof for German Shepherds? German Shepherds are naturally active and tend to explore the world with their mouths, especially during their adolescent period. So, before you can bring your new puppy home, there are a few things you can do to puppy-proof your house: Get rid of any poisonous plants or put them out of reach of your new puppy. Cover electrical cords with cable wraps or PVC pipes. Buy a new laundry basket that has a lid, no holes, and is tall. Make sure both your kitchen and bathroom trash cans have lids. Your new puppy will dig around for anything to bite, like chicken bones, diapers, used hygienic products, or even a disposable razor. If possible, you should buy new trash cans that only open when a button is pressed. Store all the chemicals in secured cabinets or even better on high shelves. German Shepherd puppies have strong teeth and can open plastic containers by biting through even the toughest of plastic! Put away any small items or toys that are small enough for your puppy to swallow. Think of small kid toys like Legos or dollhouse furniture that could be dangerous for a curious puppy. Find a safe spot for your shoes. Whether in a closed closet or in the laundry room behind a closed door. I remember losing a pair of brand-new shoes because I forgot to put them away and Allie thought chewing them was a fun idea. Bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy The period of bringing a new German Shepherd puppy home and introducing them to your home and family takes time and above all, patience. If possible, plan to take off work for at least a few days after bringing your puppy home. I picked up Allie on a Saturday, and then took most of the following week off to spend time getting her adjusted to her new home. Remember, your new puppy has been taken from the only family it knew, and you are now their new family. That first week home was a good week of bonding with Allie. It helped her feel comfortable with her new life and allowed me to really get to know my new beautiful energy filled puppy. The best tip for a smooth transition when bringing your German Shepherd puppy home is to begin crate training and potty training as soon as possible. As a breed prone to separation anxiety , you want to give your GSD a zone to feel safe, comfortable, and content to be on their own. While the initial steps of crate training can be time-consuming, it can make the difference between a dog that is a joy to own, and one that can never be left on their own — so, be the dog parent your pooch deserves and put the time in! New German Shepherd puppy checklist and things to buy It is important that your new puppy feels welcomed into their new home. Some items are ok to be left with your puppy, and other items are more dangerous or will be destroyed. This checklist will help you to know what to buy when getting a puppy. New German Shepherd Puppy Checklist. One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a German Shepherd puppy is what their personality and temperament are like. German Shepherds are just like people. They each have their own personalities, and some are able to get along with other dogs better than others. In fact, how your German Shepherd puppy interacts with other dogs and people will mostly come down to their individual personality. This will mean that your German Shepherd puppy will need less training, and a lot of your interactions with one another will come more naturally. The best puppy for your home may not be the biggest, prettiest dog in the litter! How to get started Before you can worry about choosing the best German Shepherd puppy for your home, you will need to find a breeder. You will need to opt for a German Shepherd breeder who has a good reputation. So you will need to do your research to find the right breeder for your needs. You may even need to travel a fair way to find the perfect breeder. Even if your German Shepherd breeder is located several states away, it will be worth the trip. If you put in the right amount of time and effort now, it should pay dividends throughout the next few years. Here are a few handy tips to help you find the right breeder to buy a German Shepherd puppy from. Talk to your German Shepherd breeder One of the first things you should do is to give the German Shepherd breeder a call. You may be surprised to learn that quality breeders will actually require this to ensure that the puppy is going to a good home. They may not be as interested in the health of the puppy and their new home as they should be, and are more concerned about making a profit from their dogs. The breeder will want to ensure that you have the right space to accommodate your German Shepherd puppy. Have you got any kids? Training your new puppy and giving them the right amount of socialization will be essential for keeping your family safe. Do you have a fenced outdoor space? Your puppy will need to have a good amount of room so they can run around and play. They will need regular exercise to stay fit and healthy. Why do you want a German Shepherd? The breeder will want to know what purpose you want a German Shepherd puppy for. It could be as a pet, for added protection, or to show competitively. Do you have any other pets? This will be an important factor as you will need to know how to introduce your new puppy to other animals. It will also be crucial to know if you have any other pets which could pose a danger to the puppy. What do you do for a living? If you have to work away for long periods of time so that your puppy is left alone for large portions of the day, the breeder will want to know this. Can you afford the financial responsibility of this puppy? Dogs are a financial commitment. This may seem like too much of a personal question, however, it will be important to establish that you can properly care for your new dog. Questions you can ask your breeder There are far too many unethical breeders around. Some irresponsible breeders will take shortcuts when it comes to breeding, which will leave you with dogs who have behavioral and health issues. Do you raise other breeds of dog? This can show you whether they have been bred from healthy dogs. Have you got any references? A good quality breeder should be able to give you these easily enough. Have you got a pedigree for the puppies? This is essentially a family tree of the puppies. A good quality breeder should be able to produce the proper lineage of your new puppy when asked. If the breeder attempts to charge you for this, or says they will give it to you another time, be very wary. Every breeder worth their salt will give you this guarantee as a written contract. How often do you breed your females in a single year? This will allow them to properly recover from giving birth, and help to maintain great health. Have you got a detailed medical history for the puppies? A reputable breeder should be able to give you proof of any health screenings that their puppies have had. This is essential for healthy dogs. Could you explain to me if German Shepherds have any health issues they may suffer from as adults? Puppies should never be taken home if they are less than 8 weeks old. In fact, more than half of the states in America have laws to prevent this from happening. There are several laws which dictate how old a puppy needs to be before it can be adopted or sold. There are only 3 which actually allow puppies to be sold under 8 weeks old: D. These laws are in place for a reason. This is to ensure that all puppies have been properly weaned from their mothers and that they are able to eat without help. Puppies will also need to have been properly socialized before they can leave their mothers. Their mothers and siblings can help to socialize the puppy properly. Most of the behavioral problems in adult dogs can be traced back to this lack of discipline and not having been socialized properly. To make sure that you have a healthy puppy, you will need to choose a puppy that is being sold in accordance with the laws of their state. This will mean buying a puppy that is at least 8 weeks old, if not older. Even if you happen to find a puppy in D. Male or female puppy Perhaps you already have a preference for the gender of your puppy. You will need to understand that the two genders actually have distinct differences. Here are a few things for you to consider to help you make a fully informed choice. Female German Shepherds 1. Physical appearance Typically, female German Shepherds will be much smaller than males. They will also have a less muscular stature. Dominance A female dog will display less behavioral dominance than a male dog will. Family bonding Female German Shepherds are more likely to bond with the whole family rather than a single individual. Territorial A female German Shepherd will be much less territorial than a male dog will be. Male German Shepherds Male dogs will tend to be much larger than females. They are also more muscular. Dominance Males will display a lot more dominance than females. Single person bonding A male German Shepherd is more likely to bond very closely with a single person instead of a whole family. Territorial A male German Shepherd is more likely to be territorial. This means they could be more likely to wander off in an attempt to expand their home turf. Possessive These males tend to be on the more possessive side than their female counterparts. This could be over their food, their favorite toys, or even you. It will be important to give them correct training to teach them not to be aggressive towards you. They should be able to socialize better with others, too. But the best way to find out if your prospective puppy will be the right fit for your home is to do some proactive investigating. This can also be a great indicator of their future behavior, too. You should never force the interaction. If the puppy is reluctant to come near you and interact with you, then you will be better off choosing a different pup. Tests for your German shepherd puppy 1. Eye contact When you look directly at your puppy, does it look back at you? If your puppy stares back at you, this is showing confidence. If your puppy avoids eye contact then it may be anxious, scared, or have a vision issue. Clapping your hands This can indicate how social your puppy is. If it comes towards you and tries to interact with you, this is a great sign. This shows that the dog is eager to socialize with people. Call out to the puppy Do they come towards you at the sound of your voice? This is a fantastic sign. Pet the dog It will be important to note how the puppy interacts with your physical touch. If the puppy is affectionate and loving, this will be another great sign. If they bite or growl at you, this will likely be an indication of a bad temperament. The dog will have to be trained out of this. Play ball Bring a ball with you when you meet your puppy. Roll this towards the dog and see how the puppy interacts with it. Does the puppy follow the ball? Bring it back to you? Or does the dog keep the ball for itself? Puppies that are more dominant will keep the ball for themselves. They will also be reluctant to give the toy back to you. A more submissive puppy is likely to be frightened of the ball coming towards them. A more independent dog will likely show very little interest, if they show any at all. Puppies with an even temperament will show some interest in the ball, will play with it, but will also be willing for you to play a part of the game without showing any aggression. Searching for a more sociable dog? Keep an eye out for the puppy that brings the ball right back to you and asks you to play more. This puppy will be a fantastic candidate for training as well as other exercises. Roll the puppy When the puppy has come over to you, you can try to gently roll them onto their back, then hold them in place. Watch how the puppy reacts to you. Do they relax under your touch, or do they resist you? A dominant puppy will be more likely to resist you. It could even try to bite you or growl at you. An even-tempered puppy will resist at first, but will submit to you after a short time. Pick up your puppy You can physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it under its chest with an open hand. Lift the puppy up, and see what it does. Does the puppy stay relaxed or does it struggle? A struggling dog is likely to be dominant or scared. A puppy that stays perfectly relaxed is showing that it trusts you and that it is confident. This is a similar test to holding the puppy on its back. Chances are the puppy will react immediately. Any resistance or trying to pull their paw away from you could be a sign of an aggressive temperament or dominance. A puppy that accepts your actions will show a more submissive temperament. They could even lick you! Create an unexpected noise This could just be a sudden shout or banging some pots and pans. The important factor will be watching how the puppy reacts to a sudden noise. Do they show interest? Are they scared? Aggressive puppies could try and bite you and growl at you. Visit the puppy parents Most breeders will have both puppy parents in the same place. Some of them may only have the mother with the puppies because the father was on loan from a stud or a different breeder. Either way, the mother of your puppy should be with them when you pay the dogs a visit. If one of the parents appears aggressive, this could show you that you need to do some more training with your new puppy. A dog that displays more dominant tendencies will need proper training to take the edge off these behaviors. Choosing a female German Shepherd will also be a good choice. Puppies will have their off days, just like humans do. It will be important to visit your new puppy a few times and spend at least 30 minutes with them so that you can see what they will be like. They will likely prefer it to someone who only pays their puppy one visit before collecting them! This is a good indicator that the breeder wants their dogs to be matched with the right owners. If there are other people in your household who will be living with the German shepherd puppy, such as kids or a partner, you will need to bring them along, too. Your new puppy will need to get accustomed to the people it will be spending time with. It will be much easier to transition your puppy to living in your home. You should also bring some treats along for your new puppy each time you visit. These are all positive reinforcements that can allow your new puppy to get used to you and encourage them to bond with you. It will also be a good idea to bring something with you that you can leave behind for the puppy. This could be a new toy or a blanket that smells like you. This will allow the puppy to get used to your smell, which can also make the transition easier. They will also be very well acquainted with the mother of the puppies and have knowledge of the father. So your breeder should be able to help you choose the right puppy for your needs, and match the right personality to you. In summary So there you have it! Choosing the right German Shepherd puppy for your needs is certainly more challenging than it first appears. The most important goal is to choose the right dog that will fit in well with you and your family. As long as you do the proper research beforehand, you should be able to find the right dog for your home. Remember to ask the right questions when you find your breeder to make sure that they are a good person to buy a dog from. Be sure to visit your new puppy several times before you bring them home. As long as you take this responsibility seriously, you will have laid the perfect foundation for a fruitful relationship with your new puppy. Final thoughts Where do I start? The first thing that you have to do before you can pick out the best puppy, is to pick out the best breeder. This may come easily, as you may already have a breeder in mind that you trust and who has a good reputation. But chances are that you will have to do your research. And there is also a good chance that you may need to travel some distance to the right breeder. Even if the breeder is several states away, consider making the trip. Getting a new GSD puppy is a significant life commitment. The effort and time that you invest now in going about this properly will pay off for years to come. Here are some important things to look for in a breeder once you locate one that you are interested in pursuing. Call the breeder and have a conversation The first thing to do is call the breeder and have a conversation. A quality German Shepherd breeder will actually require this. They will not permit someone to just show up and purchase one of their dogs and take it home. They will ask you questions such as: Why do you want a GSD puppy? This will aid them in helping you choose. Where do you live, in an apartment or in a home? They will want to ensure that the puppy will not be in a cramped space. Do you have a yard, and is it fenced-in? They will want to make sure that the puppy will have adequate room to exercise as it grows. Do you have children in your home? They will want to make sure that you understand the importance of socialization and training to keep your family safe. Do you have other pets in your home? They will want to make sure that you know how to properly introduce the puppy to other animals, and whether any other pets you have may actually be a danger to the puppy. What type of work do you do, does it require you to be away from home for long periods of time? Because GSDs do not do well alone, they will want to make sure that you have adequate time to devote to your dog. Are you financially prepared to take on a GSD? While this may be a bit of a personal question, it is important to know that you are financially able to care for a GSD. They are expensive to care for, and it is fair for a breeder to ask this question. If a breeder does not ask you some form of these questions, then perhaps think twice. It may be an indication that they are more interested in profit than raising a quality puppy that they care will go to a quality home. Questions for you to ask the breeder: How many different types of dogs do you raise? Can you provide me with a pedigree of all of your puppies? A pedigree is essentially a family tree for your puppy. A good breeder should have a detailed pedigree for any dog they sell. Beware of any breeder that wants to charge for this or says that they will provide it at a later date. Do you have references? They should provide you with several without thinking twice. All reputable breeders will offer this guarantee in the form of a written contract. Do you breed your females more than once a year? Female GSDs should not be bred more than one time per year. This allows for adequate recovery time and maintains good health. Can you provide me with a detailed medical history for your puppies? Health screenings are essential for puppies, and a reputable breeder should be able to provide proof of these. Can you explain any potential health issues for GSD which may come up later in life? A knowledgable breeder should be able to clearly explain conditions like hip dysplasia and other health issues more common in GSDs than other dogs. If the answer to any of these questions comes up as unsatisfactory, move on. It is simply not worth the risk of pursuing the breeder any further. Unfortunately, there are far too many unethical breeders who take a lot of shortcuts which results in dogs prone to both health and behavioral issues. Why is this? You should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. More than half of the states in the U. And out of those states, only 3 permit a puppy to be offered for sale under the age of 8 weeks. The reason for these laws is primarily so that puppies are properly weaned from their mothers and able to eat on their own. In addition to weaning, puppies need to be initially socialized by their mothers as well as their siblings. So a puppy will be taught that these things are bad during these 8 weeks. If you remove a puppy from the litter too early, they may not learn these lessons and develop behavioral problems as they get older. Much like a spoiled child that never learns, often times the source of an ill-behaved puppy can be traced to a lack of discipline at a young age. So to ensure that you have a healthy puppy, that is also sold in accordance with state laws and regulations, understand that it must be 8 weeks old see link above for exceptions — regardless of state law exceptions, waiting 8 weeks is good practice. Decide whether you want to male or female You may have a personal preference for either a female or a male German Shepherd puppy. It is important however to not necessarily just go with your gut on this one. Take a moment and understand some general differences between the two genders. I will explore this issue more in-depth in another post, but here are some important general points to consider. Territorial: Males are naturally more territorial than females. This may give them more of a tendency to wander off in an effort to broaden their territory. Very possessive: Male GSDs are generally more possessive than females. They may be possessive over food and bones, toys, and you! Dominance: Male German Shepherds tend to be more dominant than females. This may result in more of a proclivity towards aggressive bullying behaviors to make sure that it is understood that they are the boss. Dominance requires training to keep it in check. Singular bonding: Male GSDs tend to bond more closely with one person rather than a group of people like a family. Territorial: Females are therefore more welcoming and less territorial than males. They are also less likely to wander off as they have no desire to expand their territory. Dominance: Females display less dominant behaviors than males. Non-singular bonding: Females are more likely to bond with a number of people in a family rather than an individual person. So, how do I choose between the two? This question comes down to the purpose for which you want a German Shepherd. If you are looking for a dog to have trained in protection and are looking primarily for a four-legged security system for your home, then a male is a good choice. However, if your primary interest is to just have a family pet that socializes well with others, then a female is probably right for you. Testing the puppy There is no better way to determine whether or not a specific puppy is the right one for you than to actually get hands-on and doing some investigating. However, even before you begin any interactions with a puppy, make sure that you are testing the correct one. Never try and force any interaction, begin with puppies that are naturally drawn to you. Just like with people, you cannot force a match and expect fruitful results. So be patient and make sure at very least that the puppy is not aversive toward you before you being. The tests: Clap your hands: Does it run away or does it come? A more timid dog may, however, be apprehensive to approach. Make eye contact: When the puppy is looked at, does it stare back at you? If the puppy looks directly at you, it is showing confidence. Vocally call the puppy over to you: Does it come to you right away? If it does how not, however, this could show a behavioral issue or hearing problem, or it could be an indication of another illness as well. Pet the puppy: How does it respond to your touch? However, if it meets your touches with biting or growling, then this is likely an indication of an uneven or bad temperament. It will not just grow out of this, it will have to be trained out of it. Bring a ball with you to test with the puppy: Roll the ball and see what the puppy does. Does it follow it and then bring it to you? Or does it take it away for itself. A more dominant puppy will just take the ball and keep it for itself, reluctant to give it back to you. On the other hand, a more independent puppy may show no interest at all. And one that is submissive may actually be frightened. If you are looking for a very sociable puppy, look for the one that brings the ball right back to you to play some more. The puppy that brings it right back is also an ideal candidate for training in retrieving and other exercises. An even-tempered puppy will show interest in and play with the toy, but it will also allow you to participate and take the toy back without showing you any aggression. Roll the puppy over: Once the puppy comes over to you, gently roll it onto its back and hold it in place. Do not be forceful but be firm. See how the puppy reacts. Is it resisting, or is it just relaxing? A puppy with a more dominant personality will take the path of most resistance, and it may growl or attempt to bite at you. And the even-tempered puppy is the one that may resist for a short time but then submit to what you are doing. Pick up the puppy: Physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it underneath its chest with an open hand. Lift it up high, even above the height of your head and hold it there. What does the puppy do? Does it struggle, or does it stay relaxed? A puppy that struggles may be fearful or dominant. On the other hand, a puppy that stays absolutely relaxed is displaying confidence in itself and trust in you. Hold on to a paw and press it gently: This is somewhat similar to holding it on its back. If there is a response to be had, it will happen immediately. Resistance or pulling the paw away may show dominance and temperament towards aggression. The even-tempered puppy will be you curious as to what you are doing. It may investigate a little and might even lick you. Make an unexpected noise: Whether it is banging a pot and pan together or just yelling, create an unexpected noise. See what the puppy does, does it show fear, interest, or aggression? A fearful puppy may run away or even whimper. While an aggressive-tempered puppy may actually growl and try to bite you. An even-tempered puppy will simply look surprised, and may even want to investigate a little bit further. Meet the parents A lot of breeders will have both the father sire and the mother bitch of the puppies on site. However, some of them will only have the mother because sometimes the father is on loan as a stud from a different breeder. But the mother for sure should be on site, and you should get an idea of what she is like. In the case of my last German Shepherd, I was able to meet both parents. His mother was very kind and sociable and eager to be petted. While on the other hand, his father was clearly dominant, and not a dog to be messed with. Because of my prior experience and knowledge, my GSD turned out exactly as I thought he would — fairly sociable yet wildly protective of me. This was all right because I knew what to expect and I was able to train my dog properly to take the edge off of some of his more dominance behaviors. However, my choice was an informed decision based on years of experience. If you are new to owning a German Shepherd, this may not be an ideal combination. I would recommend for a new German Shepherd owner to consider making sure that both parents are more docile, and possibly even lean towards acquiring a female for your first German Shepherd. Visit the puppy on more than one occasion Just like people, puppies have their on days and their off days. You will not be able to get a very accurate picture of how your puppy will be on one short visit. In fact, with my last dog, I visited him at least 4 times and stayed for at least 30 minutes with him each time prior to taking him home. A good breeder will have no issue with you doing this, and in fact, will prefer it. They want their dogs to be well-matched with their new owners, so this is common practice. The puppy should become accustomed to the people it will soon be spending its entire life with. So the more familiarity that you build now in this phase, the easier that puppy will transition to home life with you and your family. All of these steps are positive reinforcement for your new puppy and will build familiarity and a bond even before you arrive home. Also, bring a small blanket or clothing item and ask the breeder to leave it with the puppy. This will allow your puppy to become familiar with the scent of you and your home. Making for a better transition. So by default, this knowledge enables the breeder to be very good at placing the proper puppies with the proper personalities. Remember to stay focused and not lose sight of your primary objective, which is to select the right puppy for you and your family. If you take the time and care to do your research and ask the right questions, you will come together with the right puppy for you. But remember, this is just the beginning of a major life commitment. So take this step of choosing the right GSD puppy seriously, and you will have laid the foundation for a loving and rewarding relationship for years to come. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.
Let us provide you with a Labradoodle puppy and a forever friend. About Us The start! Tonia LeFrancois owner of Triangle Labradoodles started this dream with family in mind! Her son was born with several allergies that would keep him from having a puppy. Tonia feels that every little childs life is not complete with out a puppy. After months of research we found the Australian labradoodle to be the best fit for us. With the help of Jenny Blume at Swinging gate kennels we provided our family a loving female named Aspen. Aspen stole every heart in the family and know her son has his best friend! Now we would like to offer that option to others so they too can have a dog in their family. This is why here at Triangle Labradoodles we want to provide quality pets to other familes that need a best friend. With this in mind all puppies here at Triangle labradoodles are raised in our home with 3 children as part of our family so they will fit in well with yours. Staying true to the vision of those who founded this incredible breed is an important element of our breeding philosophy. A proud member of the Australian Labradoodle Club of America, it is our goal to provide the most loving environment possible for our puppies. We will only work with the best breeders available to provide the highest quality and healthiest doodles around. We will strive for a low volume high quality approach for producing puppies. We are not a kennel and all puppies are raised in our home as part of the family. The Australian Labradoodle is different from all other labradoodles. Dogs from this cross typically were bred to each other over future generations, whereby the Australian dogs are also know as "Multi-generational" Labradoodles. The resulting labradoodles subsequently have been bred to each other, continuing the multi-generational tradition. Even when the other types of Labradoodles are bred on for generations, the result is not an Australian Labradoodle, as the attributes of the infused breeds were not included in their ancestry. The Australian Labradoodle Club of America was founded exclusively to foster and protect the original Australian Labradoodles that have come directly from Tegan Park and Rutland Manor breeding stock, or their offspring. Our mission is to maintain and improve the quality and soundness of the Australian Labradoodles, and to carefully monitor the further development of the breed. All member breeders are carefully screened to help ensure the future of the Australian Labradoodle. Our member breeders must breed to the highest standards. We have Breeder Mentors to assist member breeders and to help new breeders get off to a good start. The goal was to join with breeders across America in the development of a pure breed dog and to unite these breeding programs for one common cause, the preservation of the Authentic Australian Labradoodle. Our breed is in its final stage and is renowned for its amazing traits and has proven to be consistent and reliable. Its intuitive nature, uncanny ability to sense and in some cases self teach the art of being a medical alert dog, the direct eye to eye contact and their desire to please makes them one of the most trainable dogs in America. This breed is hypoallergenic, non shedding and is one of the most sought after dogs in America. Our goal is to protect and improve the breed health as we move towards pure breed status. Contact Us. Sweetly Retired Stormie G. We take so much pride in our doodles. They are the funniest, smartest, cutest, little guys, so much personality. Bred for their wonderful temperament, intuitive nature and overall character; they are non-shedding and don't carry doggie odors. They undergo temperament testing and a host of socialization opportunities are provided as grands come and go, neighbors drop by for cuddles, kitchen noises, loud televisions, children running about, birds singing and dogs barking; extra cuddles, visits by the other doodle family members and on and on. All of our dogs live here in the house with us. Guardian puppies live with their own loving families but visit often. Mama doodles are whelped here and baby doodles are appropriately exposed to a busy family lifestyle. All of our doodles receive the best in health care, as puppies themselves, before breeding, during and after, because we quite simply just love them to pieces and they deserve it. They have a team of vets, health testing, repoduction management, attend NC State Therinology clinic for ultrasounds, progesterone testing, cardiac testing, etc. So if you see a tear drop or two as you close the door, know that it is the love that has been there before. Sweet puppy of mine you'll always be, heartbreak it is to say goodbye to thee, know that my prayers are with you and your new family. Blessings sweet puppy.We wanted a well-bred puppy, that would be a healthy, happy, member of our family. Fisher has exceeded our expectations.Not only did she ensure an excellent pedigree, she took the utmost care of the pups, after they were born. Thanks to her socialization, the beginning of crate and house training, and tons of love, Fisher acclimated to our home and family right away. We got a steady stream of videos and pictures, as well as results from temperament testing. We knew him before we ever brought him home and she even had us send items that had our scent, to familiarize him with us! Communication was open and encouraged. The whole process was something we'll always treasure. Labradoodles are great dogs and Lake Blue is a great breeder, worthy of these pups. Willa's litter Stormie's litter. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near West Raleigh North Carolina and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. Yes, standard poodles make great family dogs! If you are looking for a hypoallergenic dog breed that is good with children, a standard poodle may be a good choice for you. There is no definitive answer to this question. Poodles are known for being particularly easy to train, while Labradoodles are known for their friendly dispositions. This is a difficult question to answer. Goldendoodles tend to be a bit more laid-back than Labradoodles, while Labradoodles are known for being particularly friendly. The poodle-mix breeding trend is likely to continue for the foreseeable future. How Smart Is Your Labradoodle? If you are looking for an intelligent, quickly trained dog breed, a Labradoodle may be a good choice for you. Yes, Labradoodles need to be groomed regularly. If you are not prepared to commit to the grooming needs of a Labradoodle, another breed may be a better choice. The average life expectancy of a Labradoodle is years. Testimonials What our clients are saying? They are kept in our home and treated as a member of our family. Happy Tails Labradoodles has cute Labradoodles for sale. We breed for the joy these puppies bring to us and their new families. Happy Tails Labradoodles is dedicated to raising quality Labradoodles. More Testimonials Home sweet home for Tashi. In just a mere few days she has brought so much laughter and joy to our home. Thank you Happy Tails Labradoodles for your professionalism, passion and promise to deliver quality care to each and every pet. We are so delighted with the new addition to our family. Lesley Brown Bringing home my loving and healthy pup Honor was just the best! Thank you so much for taking such great care of my sweet boy. Love sharing your high excellence with everyone! Kristen Buergey.
Fully vaccined 4 months pug puppy is available. In Delta, BC. Parents are family dogs with prefect demeanors and are great with children and chickens : even cats Pick up is an option in.Mom is a beagle and dad is a pug. We own both parents. Adorable brindle pugapoos! Are you searching for an adorable, affectionate, and playful furry friend to bring joy and laughter into your life? Pug, Golden retrievers, chihuahua. Terrace We are moving overseas and need to rehome our dogs. Well handled by children as we homeschool, and used to other dogs. This unique combination results in a dog.They were born May 21 and have had their first set of shots, been dewormed and come with vet.Pick your puppy now and watch him grow with weekly video updates. Mom is a pure bred English Lab and weights 70lbs she loves playing fetch and.Clinton I have 5 adorable puppies left available. Pug cross. Mom is a mix about 60lbs, my most loyal best friend. She loves guarding her farm but is gentle with all.Three amazingly coloured pug puppies. Raised with love as part of the family. Mom and dad on site. All babies are on a deworming program and will have a health certificate and first set of.This little girl is full of attitude and pizzazz! Mom is 4 pounds, Loves children and other animals. Browse other categories in Pets in British Columbia. Just a note there is a minimum 5 month wait for a new pug puppy from Barnes Pugs. Most times the wait is much longer. We breed for quality — not quantity. Please check your local animal shelters and rescues for a pet. There are many deserving animals waiting for new forever homes. Contacting us by phone is best All of our pugs are part of our family and are raised as a fully integrated part of the house, with the utmost love and attention in our family home not outside! We are not a kennel. The handling and love of our pug babies begin the moment that they are born. Our pug babies start out their loves in our bedroom where we can keep a close eye and ear out for them. Once they are weeks old they then venture out to the living room. The pugs are introduced to the litter box when they are learning to walk. As the pug puppies grow they are introduced to the rest of the house and outside weather permitting Just as any other breed the pug comes with it's own health issues. Please do your research before contacting us about a pug. If anyone in the home has any sort of allergies or asthma than the Pug breed is probably not the breed for your family. We want to place our pug babies in forever loving homes. It clearly states on our Health Guarantee that we will take our pugs back if you are unable to keep them. We reserve the right to sell, or not, to anyone applying for a Pug from us. Please understand no one will be considered without an application on file and a phone call to us.
We are happy to refund deposits any time for any reason. We will clearly announce the pricing for each mini Labradoodle litter in a litter announcement. Apply Now If you are interested in a miniature Labradoodle puppy please consider filling out the application. Years ago, we'd announce litters to nearly people on an email waiting list. Within the first minute or two, the entire litter would be spoken for, and families who received a doodle puppy felt like they'd won the lottery. Since then, we've developed a thorough application process, seeking the very best mini Labradoodle forever homes. Please do not place a mini Labradoodle deposit unless your doodle application is accepted. We seek to fairly and thoroughly evaluate each miniature Labradoodle application within business days at which point we let you know the answer for your mini Labradoodle application: "yes," "no," or "wait. Your mini Labradoodle application does NOT obligate you to give a deposit or adopt a mini Labradoodle puppy. The mini Labradoodle application is simply your first step to express a level of interest in getting a mini Labradoodle puppy. After giving a deposit, your family would receive mini Labradoodle litter announcements in an effort to match you with the perfect miniature Labradoodle. Each adopting family has the option to pass on as many Labradoodle litters as they want until finding the perfect doodle puppy. Seeking to be the best mini Labradoodle breeders, we refund doodle deposits any time for any reason. It doesn't make sense to us why nearly every other mini Labradoodle breeder requires non-refundable deposits. We have FAR more demand than supply for our mini Labradoodles. Your application helps us determine if your family would make an excellent forever home to one of our precious mini Labradoodle puppies. We have no desire to keep a family's mini Labradoodle deposit if they've located a mini doodle with another breeder or if they've chosen not to get a mini Labradoodle at all. Tweet on Twitter This complete guide to the silver Labradoodle has everything you need to know about the coat, health and temperament of a Labrador Poodle mix with shimmering grey fur. The description silver Labradoodle can reasonably be applied to dogs in several genetically distinct colors. The exact type of silver Doodle dog you pick may even affect how trainable they are, and how often they get sick. What is a Silver Labradoodle? Silver Labradoodle is a surprisingly ambiguous term! It sounds like it could mean any light grey Labradoodle, right? And that is indeed how a lot of people use it. And if so, which one! Silver Labs Part of the problem is that silver Labrador Retrievers and silver Poodles are very specifically defined colors, but they are not the same color. A silver Labrador is a brown dog with a dilute coat. That is, they possess two copies of a recessive dilution gene, which suppresses pigment production in their fur. Since the dilution gene is recessive, a Labrador must inherit a copy from both of their parents for it to take effect. Silver Labradors are born silver colored. Silver Poodles On the other hand, a silver Poodle is a black dog with two copies of a progressive greying gene. The progressive greying gene is incompletely dominant, which means that Poodles only need to inherit one copy from one parent in order for it to take effect. Different versions of the gene behave more and less powerfully as well, depending on their exact molecular structure. So there is a scale of possible color outcomes for fading Poodles, depending on how many copies of the greying gene they inherit, and how powerful each copy is. The bright platinum color described by the Poodle community as silver is the most extreme possibility. So it is likely that all silver Poodles have two copies of the greying gene and powerful ones at that! Other shades of grey On top of all this, there are other shades of grey in both breeds, which owners or observers without an interest in the finer details of color inheritance might also casually describe as silver. What cross produces silver Labradoodles? Someone using the term silver Labradoodle could mean a black or brown coat that is either: dilute faded by the progressive greying gene or both! They are all legitimate combinations. But, some are limited to particular Labradoodle generations. On the other hand, 2nd, 3rd, or multigen Labradoodles can express color dilution, progressive fading or even both, depending on their ancestry! To tell them apart, remember that dogs with color dilution are born already dilute, and dogs with the progressive greying gene start densely pigmented, and fade as they mature. To distinguish between dilute or faded coats with either a black or brown base, you might also come across the terms silver blue Labradoodle black-based dilution or fading or a silver beige Labradoodle brown-based dilution or fading. Why is my chocolate Labradoodle turning silver? They were born densely pigmented, but now the greying gene is starting to take effect, and their coat is clearing. This process starts around 6 weeks old, and takes up to two years to complete. Are silver Labradoodles rare? The genetic balance of probabilities is not stacked against them! This means the availability of silver Labradoodle puppies is driven partly by trends, and demand. Beware of breeders who tell you that a silver coat is rare, and use it to justify a silver Labradoodle cost. Silver Australian Labradoodles Australian Labradoodles are a multigenerational breeding project to turn Labradoodles into a new pedigree dog in their own right. Despite, or perhaps because of, all the ways a Labradoodle can inherit a coat that can be described as silver, none of the officially recognized colors for Australian Labradoodles are known as silver. The closest equivalent is lavender, which is a brown coat with the fading gene. Silver Labradoodle temperament So there are several different ways that grey Labradoodle puppies for sale can end up being described as silver. But do any of them make a difference to their personality? Is one kind of silver Doodle any friendlier or more trainable than another? At the time of writing, there is no known direct genetic link between coat color and temperament. But, an indirect link has developed in some Labrador breeding lines, which could also be reflected in their Labradoodle offspring. Among Labrador Retrievers, black Labs are traditionally much preferred for working gundog roles. As far as we know, black color and working aptitude are genetically independent of each other, but for many generations breeders have gone out of their way to select in favor of both together. Today, this means chocolate Labs are more likely to be described as agitated when ignored, excitable and scared of loud noise than black Labs, and less likely to be described as trainable. These traits could be reflected in a silver beige Labradoodle from chocolate Labrador lines, compared to a silver blue Labradoodle from black Labrador lines. But, there are so many other influences at work such as the individual temperament of both parents, the training they receive from an early age, the amount of physical exercise they get that it would be nearly impossible to quantify exactly how much impact coming from brown Lab lines has had. What you can be sure of is that your Labradoodle will be smart, energetic, and people-focussed. Silver Labradoodle Health Next, what about health? Labs and Standard Poodles are remarkably similar in terms of overall health and life expectancy. They both live for around 12 years on average, and during their lifetime the most common health problems they have are: Hip dysplasia Joint problems in the knees and elbows Thyroid disease Ear infections Autoimmune skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis and sebaceous adenitis Choosing a puppy from health tested parents is the best way to beat avoidable health problems like these. But yet again, the poor chocolate Lab is likely to compare unfavorably to their black and yellow cousins. Health studies of Labradors indicate that chocolate colored dogs are diagnosed with ear infections and dermatitis more frequently than black and yellow dogs, and live on average one year less. Chocolate Labs used to breed silver or silver beige Labradoodle puppies could pass these vulnerabilities on to their puppies. Your Silver Labradoodle Puppy So there you have it — one silver Doodle dog may not be strictly the same color as the next, and silver Doodles from chocolate Labrador parents may have a markedly different temperaments, health profile and lifespan too. If you already have a silver Labradoodle, please tell us about them in the comments box down below! Were they silver when you picked them up, or did they fade as they matured? More Labradoodle Photos And Resources. Their adorable curly fur and expressive faces make you want to cuddle them — and these little guys love nothing more than a good squish. All this and more makes our labradoodle puppies for sale one the most in-demand in our center. Activity-loving families adore these dogs for their propensity towards sports, and anyone who prefers low-shedding pooch benefits from their wooly or fleecy fur. Labradoodle puppies for sale are so cute and come in such a wide range of colors that it makes choosing your new best friend super-hard! While spearheading the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia breeding program, he conducted the crossbreeding of a standard poodle and Labrador retriever in view of it being a hypoallergenic guide dog for blind people. The first example of this type of dog, called Sultan, went to live with a lady in Hawaii, where other breeders saw him as an inspiration and this is how Australian Labradoodle puppies started. Both the International Australian Labradoodles Association and the Australian Labradoodles Association of America are working hard to incorporate more intergenerational breeding so these dog breeders can register this type of dog as a purebred dog. Its gentle, obedient and intelligent personality combined with a hypoallergenic coat make it ideal for family members with allergies, but it also makes an excellent service or therapy dog. Labradoodle Puppies Lifespan When properly taken care of, healthy dogs tend to live anywhere from 10 to 13 years. The lifespan of our Labradoodle puppies for sale is slightly above average at 12 to 14 years. Here are the life stages of multigenerational Australian Labradoodles: Puppyhood: First five months Adolescence: Between five months and two years Adulthood: Between two and three years Middle age: Between seven years and 10 years Senior: Over 10 years Labradoodles need the most attention and care in the first and last stages of their life. During puppyhood, their minds are highly impressionable, which is ideal for training. During their senior years, Labradoodles are more susceptible to health problems, which means owners need to keep a watchful eye. Labradoodle Size The size of labradoodle puppies for sale directly relates to the size of their parents and which generation of breed Labradoodle breeders chose. The larger the puppies, the larger the adult dog will be, and the faster their growth will be coming out of the puppy stage. A standard labradoodle puppy will weigh from pounds by the time it reaches two months of age. By a year old, it will have grown dramatically to up to 80 pounds, depending on the size of its parents. Medium Labradoodles occupy a spectrum of sizes between standard and mini Labradoodles, with the specifics depending heavily on the details of the breeding pair that birthed them and the breeding program they come from. Labradoodle Puppies Temperament While Labradoodle breeders originally bred the Australian Labradoodles as therapy dogs, their fun, friendly personalities made them popular pets. Now you can find these sociable dogs in homes across the globe. Here are some of the top personality traits of our Labradoodle puppies for sale. They tend to do best in active households where they can work off all that pent-up energy. You can fulfill their needs through the following activities: Walks or jogs: Labradoodles make great walking companions and can even keep up with you during a jog. Playing in the yard: Enjoy a game of fetch with your furry friend in the yard or just let it loose on its own. Dog sports: If you stay active through sports, consider making your labradoodle a part of your routine. Bring it on bike rides, go for a run together or kick a ball around in the yard. Obstacle courses: Set up an obstacle course for your dog using household items. Scavenger hunt: Creating a scavenger hunt for your canine is a great way to exercise its body and brain. In general, Labradoodles need anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day. You can also enroll them later at a Labradoodle puppy alumni school for proper training. Friendliness What makes Labradoodles the perfect puppy compare to other dog breeds is their ability to get along with just about anyone. They inherit this trait from their Labrador retriever parent, a breed also known for its outgoing nature. You can trust your labradoodle to form friendships with everyone, from children and older adults to strangers and other puppies. Thanks to their affectionate, sociable personalities, Labradoodles make great pets for first-time owners, families, or anyone looking for a companion. Intelligence Thanks to their poodle parent breeds, Labradoodles are incredibly intelligent dogs. Because Labradoodles are intelligent, they often crave mental stimulation. Labradoodle Puppies Grooming Our Labradoodle puppies for sale have a variety of coat textures that dog owners enjoy, but in general, their low shedding coat needs brushing at least twice a week. Not only does this keep them tangle-free but it also removes excess debris from their coat, keeping them fresh and hygienic. Regularly trim the hair around their eyes and in between their paws to prevent these problem areas from causing irritation. Pooches with fleece coats tend to have longer fur and benefit the most from going to a professional groomer — although every dog loves getting pampered once in a while. At Pride and Prejudoodles, we send a can and a bag of the foods we use for free with your hand-delivered bundle of joy. If you need to change it for any reason, it must be done gradually to avoid stomach upsets. Just bear in mind that a diet is such a crucial aspect of wellness that feeding them good quality food will add years to their lives compared to opting for low-quality feed. Pride and Prejudoodles is here to help. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Labradoodle puppies for adoption. Both parents come from healthy bloodlines. Dam is pounds and inches tall and the Sire is 23 inches tall and pounds. These puppies will range between these sizes. Both dogs just have really great temperaments. Exactly what we look for in our breeding dogs. These Labradoodle puppies will make awesome hunting, fly-ball or agility partners as well as wonderful family members…you name it and these dogs can excel at the job! Labradoodles in general are well known for making good service and therapy dogs. The look of the F1 and the F1B Labradoodle is like night and day. These puppies go fast. Picks from the litter are done based on the order deposits are received. The F1 Labradoodle Coat is a wash and wear type of coat with minimal brushing. This vaccine assists in building immunity and provide peace of mind for you that your puppy is well on his way to being fully able to ward off infectious diseases. Age appropriate wormings. Vet Checked just before going home to insure your puppy is healthy before leaving our care. Fecal exam with our veterinarian to insure when your puppy leaves our care there are no internal parasites present. If it is a medical emergency, do not call me, go directly to your veterinarian or a 24 hour emergency animal hospital. Best of all, a well socialized, happy, loving lifetime pet! Puppy Parents. Email us at: springcreeklabradoodles gmail. Spring Creek Labradoodles has served on several committees focused on the development and health testing of the Australian Labradoodle breed. Our commitment to quality and accountability means you can have peace of mind about purchasing one of our puppies. We specialize in allergy friendly, non-shedding, wavy fleece coats and gentle, intuitive, friendly, intelligent puppies. Consistency in looks and temperament set our dogs apart. We are dedicated to breeding only the best Australian Labradoodle puppies that are the quality you deserve, from health tested lines. We offer life time support to our families who adopt one of our puppies! Our 20 acres of forest land is nestled in the rolling hills between Creswell and Lorane. It is the ideal place to raise our puppies and to give them room to run and play. Come visit us when you pick up your puppy and enjoy some time exploring this gorgeous area of the Willamette Valley! Read our testimonials from families across the world and discover why Spring Creek Labradoodles has been the Australian Labradoodle breeder of choice for many families when looking for the Australian Labradoodle puppy of their dreams! What does our commitment to health testing for all the common genetic issues mean for you? It means peace of mind. We ensure all breeding dogs will not produce genetic issues that can be ruled out by diagnostic testing. Being a conscientious Australian Labradoodle breeder, we have very strict guidelines and requirements in place for our dogs before they become part of our breeding program. Newsletter Subscribe to Spring Creek's monthly newsletter for training tips, recipes, dog health care, seasonal tips, grooming advice, behavioral help, and more! Just enter your email address and sit back and enjoy our monthly news! Email address: Leave this field empty if you're human: Spring Creek Labradoodles is an Oregon Labradoodle breeder, and one of the first in the U.
boxer and rottweiler puppies - How about cute dog pictures all year around? She has always been passionate about healthy dog care-taking, training, and helping fellow dog parents through the ups and downs of pet parenting. In a world of busyness and miscommunication, Victoria desires to bring clarity and meaningful conversation. The Daily Dog does not provide veterinary advice. All information is general in nature and for informational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian. Here are some of the cutest dog calendars, so you can enjoy the cuteness overload all year round. It celebrates the love and joy that dogs bring to our lives. From Aussies to Bassets, and Labradoodles to Shih Tzus… this calendar even celebrates the beautiful variety of mixed breed dogs out there. But the best part is… they are all puppies! Can you believe how popular this dog is? He is small in body but BIG in character, known for his eccentric, adventurous, and cheeky personality. All of the pictures are of Bulldogs. But not just any bulldogs… Bulldog Bad Boys. They are dressed up in baggy t-shirts with sideways baseball caps. Looking rough and tough as always. These pictures are adorable and will have you cracking up every month. But in every picture, this dog is dressed up in different outfits from various decades. If you love dogs, and you love other animals… this might be your favorite too. Most of them are pictures of a dog with another animal. These pictures are pretty incredible! Swine gestation calculator. Dog due date, labor, and pregnancy Your dog can get pregnant between the ages of 2 to 6. The female is most fertile in her 2nd or 3rd heat heat happens every 5 to 11 months. That's also when we can expect the largest litter. When pregnant, your dog will start to eat more and gain weight, and lab tests may show anemia and an elevated number of white blood cells. Remember that false pregnancy is a relatively common occurrence in dogs! Factors that may influence the number of puppies: Breed of the dog large dogs: puppies, small dogs: ; Amount of the male's sperm; Breeding time; Health of a female; and The state of the dog's uterus previous pregnancies. Our dog gestation period calculator will familiarize you with how your dog's pregnancy develops and the time left until her labor. At that time, your dog's temperature will drop by 1. She will breathe more rapidly and have an elevated thirst. The dog will start to get nervous and will gather all her toys in a safe, quiet place. Once we computed the labor date with the dog due date calculator, it's sensible to prepare for it in advance. When the big day comes, you'll need: Sterile gloves; A bottle with prepared formula. Did you know? A dog's egg cell must mature for days before it can be fertilized by sperm! The puppy's wellbeing Once you've used the pregnancy calculator and you know the exact date your new puppies will arrive, try to keep in mind the following rules: During pregnancy, you have to avoid certain medications, including some antibiotics or antifungal treatments. Inform your vet that you suspect that your dog might be pregnant. Check if your dog is consuming enough food. During lactation, your dog should consume twice as much food as usual too. Pups will start to open their eyes after days. They can't discriminate between shapes until the 18th day of their life! So, if they have trouble with sucking, you must help them navigate to their mother's nipples don't worry, they know what to do once there. We hope that our puppy due date calculator helps you assure yourself that everything's ready and under control for the arrival of some new lives! Share the joy! They'll be eager to devour everything once they're older! You may find out more about the possible danger in our dog chocolate toxicity calculator. Here are some signs that your dog may be pregnant: Weight gain;. Every wonder what your pet might say if it could talk? Well, you can wonder no more. Some wildly popular social media videos feature pets talking back to their owners with attitude. The videos come from the mind — and mouth — of Bobby Johnson, a Dallas voiceover artist. He takes animal videos submitted by his many fans — 2. Johnson used to be a music producer until his animal videos became a full-time job. The inspiration for his channel first came during the pandemic. It had a rhythm to it so we made a song. And a few days later, celebrities, including Colin Hanks and Missy Elliott, were reposting it. And that's when I figured, hey, let's just check this lane out a little bit more," Johnson said. Johnson watches about animal videos a day. He plays them back with the sound off. That way he can spot animals with expressive moments, where they seem to be saying something with their bodies. However, just because an animal looks guilty, it doesn't mean it has to sound guilty. But we don't buy into the first or the fifth or even the sixth impression. We try to paint a picture that makes people say, wow, okay, I didn't see it going that way," Johnson said. But it's it's paying off big time right now. Copyright NPR.
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boxer and rottweiler puppies - Knowing how to identify and treat underlying issues is the key to getting your goldy's tresses back in tip-top shape. Luckily for you and your furry family member, the culprit usually is hypothyroidism. As in humans, this disease can cause serious issues if left untreated, but it is very easy and inexpensive to test for and treat. If your pup is losing hair evenly over entire portions of the body especially the muzzle and tail , this likely is to be the diagnosis, and all you'll have to do is give your furbaby a pill once a day to get things back to normal. A few more troublesome diseases can give your doggy an unconventional 'do, and to add to the confusion, some share other initial symptoms with hypothyroidism. These include Cushing's syndrome and Alopecia X. Both conditions are rare in Golden Retrievers, but if your pup's thyroid test comes back inconclusive, your vet will want to consider these and run further tests. Allergies and Irritations Our fair-furred goldy friends are prone to allergic dermatitis and hot spots. Not only do these look yucky, they are very uncomfortable. If the skin is red, acned, broken or crusty, suspect an allergy. Regular grooming and flea control can help nip hot spots in the bud. Keep in mind that your retriever's thick double coat can trap debris near the skin, causing unsightly and painful sores later. But wait! Too much grooming also can be at the root of your pet's untimely baldness. This can be self-inflicted a bald spot from licking or scratching that aforementioned trapped debris , or a clipper injury in which case you should fire your groomer -- and do not shave a golden, as their double coat keeps them cool in the heat as well as warm in the cold. A Case of the Icky Yucks This is kind of a chicken-or-egg issue: germs can cause irritation, leading to scratching, injury and hair loss; and scratching can cause an injury, which gets infected, leading to further scratching and hair loss. Infections can be bacterial or fungal, including the famed and badly named ringworm yes, we know, it's not really a worm , but all can cause bald patches on your afflicted pet and require veterinary treatment. Creepy Crawlies The most disturbing and dangerous, and definitely the grossest, cause of doggy hair loss is mange. Mange means that microscopic or nearly so mites are munching on your friend. This can be demodetic -- caused by mites that always are on every dog, everywhere. The problem isn't these mites, it's an underlying immune issue that is letting them grow out of control, and that needs veterinary treatment. If your pet truly is unlucky, though, he may be sporting a case of sarcoptic mange, which is highly contagious and fatal if untreated. This absolutely must receive medical attention at the earliest opportunity. If your pet has mange, hair loss usually is patchy, scaly, flaky or crusty, and possibly bloody and scabby, too. More Articles. Tom Thorpe Blog Golden Retrievers are known to have thick and fluffy coats. The most common reason behind it is seasonal shedding. However, it can also point to poor diet, parasitic infestations, health issues, and more. In this post, I will discuss each of these potential reasons and what you need to do about it. Golden Retrievers are quite high maintenance dogs, so you need to pay a lot of attention to their coat. Just remember that coat health is more than just brushing and bathing. It also involves proper diet, regular vet checks, and more that I discussed below. Losing a small amount of hair is normal for Golden Retrievers. Golden Retrievers will have a thick and fluffy coat during the winter season. This is considered normal as your Golden Retriever sheds its thick winter coat to grow a shorter version for summer. However, this shedding must be even. Poor diet Another possible culprit here is poor diet. With this, your Golden Retriever will have normal histamine content on its skin. This means less itching and scratching. This vitamin aids in the utilization of protein, so your Goldie can have thicker and healthier hair. All of these nutrients can be sourced from a complete and balanced diet. Parasitic infestations Photo Credits — Advantage Petcare Parasitic infestations are one of the most common reasons behind coat problems among dogs. The following are the most common parasites reported in many Golden Retrievers: Fleas. The itchy bites will push your dog to lick, chew, and scratch the affected areas. Like fleas, tick bites are itchy, and they can trigger infections that will cause hair loss among dogs. Mange is an umbrella term for all skin infections caused by mites. As the insects burrow on the skin, your dog will lose hair. An affected Golden Retriever will experience unexplainable weight loss, thinning hair, and lethargy. This problem only becomes worse as time goes by, so early treatment is crucial. Thyroid problems Hair thinning among Golden Retrievers is also attributed to conditions like hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism will lead to unexplained weight gain, cold intolerance, dull and thinning hair, and dark skin pigmentation. Some Goldies will also have thickened facial skin and a lack of heat periods. The vet can provide oral thyroid hormone replacements to equalize the hormonal imbalance. A change in diet and lifestyle is also necessary to minimize the effects of this thyroid problem. Allergies and infections Photo-Credits-iStock. These allergies can lead to hair thinning, among other problems. Since Golden Retrievers love playing outdoors, they are prone to atopic dermatitis. Most affected Goldies have inherited the predisposition to this allergy from one of its parent dogs. Another common allergy among dogs is food allergies. It then wrongfully attacks the body, which will lead to skin problems, hair thinning, diarrhea, and more. Moreover, many Golden Retrievers also suffer from a condition called Staphylococcal hypersensitivity. In most cases, this hypersensitivity occurs in Golden Retrievers who are also suffering from thyroid problems and inhalant allergy. Remember that each Golden Retriever is unique, and so is its allergies. Stress Yes, even stress can cause hair thinning in dogs. Over time, your Goldie will lose patches of hair until it gets bald. Moreover, stress and anxiety can also develop compulsive behavior among dogs, including hair pulling. And since Golden Retrievers are prone to anxiety, they are at risk of developing these problems. But what causes extreme stress on Golden Retrievers? The most common is being left alone for long hours. However, massive changes like moving to a new house, welcoming a new pet, or passing a loved one can also trigger stress. Pregnancy and lactation Due to hormonal shifts, both dogs and humans can experience hair loss during pregnancy. This condition is temporary and will likely stop after the puppies have been weaned from the mother dog. Pregnancy can deplete your Golden Retrievers nutrition, which can lead to poor coat health. Heavy shedding out of season will occur because of this. Take note that shedding due to pregnancy can linger up until the nursing period of your dog. Old age Photo-Credits-Wikimedia-Commons. This is due to the diminishing hormone levels typical to a senior canine. While this is somewhat inevitable, proper care can help delay the onset of age-related hair loss. Also, senior Golden Retrievers are prone to health problems, which can thin their coat further. At this point, your dog needs regular vet visits to help treat the health conditions before it gets worse. How can I stop my Golden Retriever from losing too much hair? Still, you can do something to prevent your dog from losing too much hair. Fish oil capsules are a great choice here. You should get a hydrating dog shampoo that will ease irritations and remove dirt that could trigger allergies. For ticks, fleas, and mites, a broad-spectrum topical preventive will provide month-long protection for every dose. Meanwhile, regular deworming treatments are also necessary to prevent the proliferation of heartworm, ringworm, tapeworm, and so on. You should take your Goldie to the vet for routine checks, regardless if it has a health problem or not. This way, the veterinarian can diagnose a health condition even before it causes adverse symptoms like hair thinning. Self-medicating your dog at home may do more harm than help. Lastly, always keep your home clean, especially if your Golden Retriever has a severe history of atopic dermatitis. A clean home is also beneficial to you since dust and dirt can trigger allergies in humans. However, this hair loss must be even and not in patches. You also have to check if your dog is chewing or licking the area excessively. Adverse reactions to shampoo, food, medication, and other external substances can also result in localized hair loss among dogs. Q: Why is my Golden Retriever shedding too much hair all of a sudden? This might be due to hormonal imbalances, parasites, and infections. Q: On what months do Golden Retrievers get their hair thin? A: Golden Retrievers shed the most during fall and spring. This is due to the changing seasons as the dog readies its body for the extreme winter and summer weather. Lots of grooming is needed here to prevent matting. Q: Do worms cause dogs to have thin hair? In the end, its coat will look dull, thin, and brittle. This condition can be due to regular heavy shedding or poor diet. However, you should also rule out other possibilities like health problems, compulsive behavior, pregnancy, and old age. All of these factors can cause hair thinning in dogs if not addressed right away. Golden Retrievers are double-coated canines. They have a waterproof topcoat and a downy, soft undercoat. Their coat gets thinner for the summer, and they grow thicker fur for the winter. Is my Golden Retriever shedding too much? Certain factors can contribute to how much shedding your Golden Retriever is experiencing. But some health issues might be the reason why your Golden Retriever is shedding more than average. Allergies Goldens with allergic reactions to food, pollen, or even their shampoo, tend to have loose hair follicles. What encourages scratching is their irritated skin. Dogs with allergies can also suffer from itchy eyes, ears, paws, armpits, and private parts. They might also be prone to ear and eye infections. If you notice your pet excessively licking her body parts, it can be a sign of hypersensitivity. If you notice an infestation, please avoid going to the groomers! Use anti-tick and anti-mite shampoos or insecticides. You also want to clean their bedding and any areas they frequently lie on. Stress Like humans, stress can cause excessive hair loss in dogs, especially those who are extremely sensitive and have anxiety. Even loud noises coming from construction nearby, or a change of scenery or routine can be such a hassle for your fido. An under-stimulated dog can also be stressed, so she should always have plenty of exercise. If you still see clumps of hair falling out from your Golden Retriever or collecting in some parts of the house, it might be time you bring her to the vet. Hormonal changes Sterilizing your dog will increase shedding due to hormone fluctuation. Expect your newly-fixed Golden Retriever to shed more in the coming months, which is more noticeable in males. Pregnancy and lactation can increase shedding, as well. You can give her a supplement, but the hair loss should be a normal thing. Poor coats that shed easily can be because of thyroid problems. Hyperthyroidism can be treated if diagnosed early. Watch out for warning signs, including unexplainable weight gain, cold intolerance, and lethargy. Medication Is your dog on any form of medication? Some, such as corticosteroids , can increase shedding. If that is the case, speak to your vet and see if you can try a different brand instead. How to minimize Golden Retriever shedding All mammals lose their hair, even humans. Brushing can do most of the job Brush your dog daily with a slicker brush! If daily brushing seems like a chore, it can be done three times a week, at the very least. Bathing can help remove loosened fur through massaging. This will help with cleanup and stop your pipes from clogging. When he paddles through the water, the current will wash them right off. Just make sure you rinse the chlorine off once your Goldie gets out of the pool. Believe it or not, diet has a good and bad effect on their coat Healthy dogs often have healthy coats. You can avoid specific health issues by picking the right diet for your Golden Retriever. Avoid fillers in the recipe and make sure their kibble is made from high-quality ingredients, like protein. Omega-3 oil is also great for their coat. You might need to try out different brands to find one that is suitable for your Golden Retriever. She should also have access to fresh, clean water at all times. Dehydration leads to dry skin, which can cause itching and hair fall. Does shaving a Golden Retriever help with shedding? No, it would be best if you never shave your Golden Retriever or any double-coated dog. It will damage their fur and can even cause skin problems. Shaving means removing their protection against elements and their ability to adapt to weather changes. This can increase the risk of heat strokes and sunburn. Do note that some professionals and owners do not encourage the use of de-shedding tools, like Furminators. As an alternative, they recommend using a pin brush, along with an undercoat rake. If you prefer de-shedding tools, we advise that you only use it on your Goldie once a week. If you have the basic grooming tools, you can do it at home or bring your pup to a trusted groomer for some pampering. They usually use a high-powered dryer, which can remove much of their loose fur and effectively reduce shedding for a few weeks. A wet-tissue sweeper will do for wooden, laminated, or tile flooring. Swiffer is a popular choice on Amazon. Lint rollers or lint brushes are also a must-have in every household with a shedding pet like the Golden Retriever. Do Golden Retrievers shed more than Labradors? The only difference is that Labrador Retrievers require less grooming because they have shorter fur. Your decision will depend on how much you want a Golden Retriever of your own. With a background in animal science, dog training, and behavior consulting, her hands-on experience and extensive knowledge make her a trusted source for dog owners. When not writing or leading the K9 Web content team, Cess can be found volunteering at local shelters and participating in dog-related events. Leave a Comment. But why does it happen. Your Golden Retriever Could be losing hair in clumps due to a bacterial infection called hot spots, a hormonal imbalance called hypothyroidism, an allergic reaction, dry skin or other skin issues, or poor nutrition. Your dog will regrow the hair normally after treating the issue. Check out the best and healthiest foods for golden retrievers at every age here — Dry, Wet, Homemade Recipes, and Treats! Taking a walk? These are the best leashes, collars, and harnesses for the buck that you can find. Find my list of recommendations here. Why is Your Golden Retriever is Losing Hair in Clumps Golden Retrievers are heavy shedders, so finding hair around the house is quite a normal thing for golden retriever owners. However, finding clumps of hair is not normal, and neither is having their hair coming out in clumps while brushing them or even petting them. If you notice that clumps of hair are taken off their coats while brushing them or find their coats missing batches of hair, you should try to first identify the cause why your dog is losing this hair and then look at the possible treatments. Before we start, is your dog losing hair only on their face? If so, check out why dogs lose hair around the eyes here. Your dog will also be sensitive to the touch as their skin will be irritated. What is it? Hot Spots are a bacterial infection that caused the skin to have red inflamed skin lesions. They may contain pus and they appear rather quickly, they could appear literally overnight. Treatment: To treat the hot spots, you will need to soothe the inflamed areas and help your dog recover. Here are the steps to treat hot spots in dogs: Shave or clip the area to get air to reach the infected skin and dry it. And to uncover how bad the damage is, most of the infection could be hiding under matted hair. Make sure to shave the whole area. If the infection is severe, you should leave the shaving to your vet. Use cool water and a gentle skin cleanser to clean the area. Cool compress the infected area two to four times daily with a cool wet washcloth Use medications as prescribed by your vet. They may prescribe oral antibiotics, special shampoos, or topical drying sprays. Use and E-collar on your dog To prevent the scratching. Hypothyroidism How to Tell: Common signs of hypothyroidism in Golden Retrievers include the loss of hair or the thinning of it, dull hair coat, excessive shedding or scaling, weight gain, a reduced ability to tolerate the cold, and overall reduced activity. Usually, hair loss happens all over the body with the exception of the head and legs, and is not accompanied by skin redness or itching. Some dogs will have their skins become thicker and will see an increased skin pigment in areas of friction such as their armpits. They may also have ear pain with redness and bad odor, and they may also develop itchy skin that results in sores on the body. Larger breeds — such as golden retrievers — are more prone to Hypothyroidism than smaller dogs. Treatment If you suspect your dog has hypothyroidism, you need to take them to the vet for a diagnosis. If your vet indeed diagnoses your dog with hypothyroidism, he will prescribe oral replacement hormone for the dog. Unfortunately, Hypothyroidism is not curable, but it is manageable with the medications. Your dog will need to take the replacement hormone for the rest of their lives. For 4 to 6 weeks after the diagnosis, your dog will take the medication twice daily and their fur will start to regrow normally, and most dogs will then have their dosage lowered to only once daily for the remainder of their lives given that their condition remains stable — which is the norm. These are 7 tried and tested home remedies that have proven effective over the years and have never failed me or the hundreds of people I recommended these solutions to. Allergic Reactions How to Tell Allergic reactions take little time to show themselves, so you simply need to take a look back at what your dog has eaten or touched in the last couple of hours to have your suspects. Common symptoms of allergies in dogs, or allergic reactions, include Itchiness, scratching, swelling of their face, lips, ear flaps, eyelids, or ears , diarrhea, vomiting, and sneezing. Dogs can have allergic reactions to certain foods or certain chemicals as do humans. The most common food allergens in dogs are protein, and especially proteins from dairy products. Dogs can also be allergic to beef, lamp, gluten, chicken, and chicken eggs. Dogs can also have allergic reactions to certain chemicals that can be used in their treats or in their shampoos. They can also have allergic reactions to certain materials used in things that they come in contact with frequently. Treatment You can give your dog Benadryl diphenhydramine , Zyrtec cetirizine , and Claritin loratadine to relieve the allergic symptoms. Beware that these antihistamines can cause some dogs to be drowsy and others to be hyperactive. Dry skin is a problem that can have many root causes. Your dog can also have a dry skin as a symptom of a larger problem such as mange or other skin issues. By the way, If you think your dog has dandruff because of something else, check out why does your dog has dandruff and 6 solutions here. Treatment Find out what is causing your dog to have dry skin and fix the issue. Do you live in an especially hot and dry place? Consider getting a humidifier Your dog can also have dry skin because they are having too many baths, in this case, just slow down. You can find out how often should you bath your golden retriever here. I recommend checking it out as I explain the difference between different baths types, winter and summer baths, and give you some good tips on how to bathe your golden the easy and effective way. If you suspect your golden is suffering from dry skin because of an underlying health issue, take them to the vet for a diagnosis. Common Causes You Already Know About There are other causes that could be causing your golden retriever to lose hair in clumps such as bad nutrition, fleas and ticks, and bad grooming. However, just in case. Do Golden Retrievers Shed? Updated: June 26th, This article contains affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here. How Much do Golden Retrievers Shed? In a word: lots. These beautiful dogs shed hair moderately throughout the year. For many golden retrievers, this shedding ramps up twice a year during the spring and fall seasons. If you want to research a broader range of pet vacuums check out the best vacuum cleaners as tested by ModernCastle. You should expect a lot of hair to escape from your golden at this time as they blow their coats, ready to grow in entirely new ones for summer and winter, respectively. Why do Golden Retrievers Shed? Golden retrievers are one of a few dog breeds that are equipped with a double coat, composed of a thick, downy undercoat and an oily, waterproof outer coat. This amazing duality is what makes the golden retriever so resilient to different weather types and able to spend lots of time outdoors and in the water. The undercoat adapts to the weather and the temperature needs of your dog — during the cold winter months, they will grow an extra thick undercoat, before shedding much of it during the spring. This is why shedding is so heavy during spring and fall: in spring, your golden is getting rid of their thick winter coat, and in fall getting rid of their lighter summer coat to make way for the cold winter coat growth. As a general rule, the hotter the place you live, the more your golden retriever will shed as they need less hair to stay warm. Most shedding in golden retrievers is entirely normal and natural, although there are a few health reasons that can contribute to heavier shedding than normal. Another issue that can cause increased shedding is parasites — particularly fleas and ticks. Make sure that your golden retriever is up to date with their flea and tick prevention treatment and consider investing in some anti-parasite cleaning sprays and shampoos. Stress can also cause increased shedding in golden retrievers — for instance, moving home or a change in the family dynamics. Although golden retrievers will always shed some hair thanks to their double coat, there are some tips and tricks you can use to ensure that the shedding is minimal and manageable. Firstly, you should commit to a daily brushing schedule. This will allow for you to remove the dead hair straight from your dog before it falls off and becomes entangled in your carpets and furniture. It will also reduce any matting and tangles. That means feeding your dog a healthy, balanced diet and avoiding anything that they could be allergic to, or low-quality dog food that is stuffed with filler instead of nutrients. As well as reducing shedding, it will also reduce the opportunity for matts and painful tangles. Absolutely not! This will leave your dog at risk of sunburn and heatstroke and will affect the way that their hair grows back. Many hormonal imbalances can lead to hair loss in Golden Retrievers. Causes of Golden Retriever losing hair in clumps are dry skin, parasites, hypothyroidism, allergies, hot spots, poor nutrition, and other health conditions. Common Golden Retriever allergens are dairy protein, beef, lamb, gluten, chicken eggs, and chicken. Golden Retrievers may also be allergic to chemicals that are commonly used to produce dog shampoos. In addition, Golden Retrievers may also be allergic to certain materials. Allergic reactions in the form of hair loss in clumps take some time to manifest. Parasites Hair loss in clumps as a result of parasites is undoubtedly quite alarming. However, your Golden Retriever may be losing hair in clumps because of microscopic mites. This discomfort causes your Golden Retriever to vigorously scratch, bite and lick themselves — ultimately leading to them losing hair in clumps. Symptoms of parasites are hair loss, itchiness, lesions, dull fur coat, visually seeing parasites, and red skin. There are two types of parasites internal and external parasites. When Golden Retrievers age, they typically develop alopecia or hypotrichosis. On the other hand, as your Golden Retriever ages and loses hair, their hair does not grow back as quickly as it did when they were younger. This is because their cells also age, and cell activity reduce when dogs get older, which contributes to gray hairs and increased hair loss. Hypothyroidism Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland receives a significantly lower amount of thyroxine hormone than it requires to function normally. Even though this can affect Golden Retrievers of various ages, this condition primarily manifests in middle-aged Golden Retrievers between 4 to 10 years old. This fact has yet to be scientifically explained, but neutered Golden Retrievers are more susceptible to this condition. Hypothyroidism is caused by an immune-mediated disease — lymphocytic. Fortunately, this condition is not life-threatening. Treatment for hypothyroidism includes your Golden Retriever taking oral medication for a large portion of their life, and in some cases, it would be for the rest of their life. Do not be surprised if your dog falls asleep with no wounds by wakes up with quite a few all over his body. Hot spots are generally triggered by your Golden Retriever scratching, licking, and nibbling at the infected area to ease the irritation. If the wounds are not treated and are left to dwell, your Golden Retriever may develop a secondary bacterial infection. Dry skin can also be a symptom of a more severe skin condition. Generally, people say that you should bathe your dog only as often as necessary, but when you have a Golden Retriever, the situation is a bit different. Golden Retrievers have fur that attracts toxins, dirt, and dust. This means that you need to bathe them slightly more often. When your Golden Retriever is losing hair in clumps, they need their skin to be soothed and cleansed, so you need to bathe your Golden Retriever between 2 to 3 times a week. Medication Suppose your Golden Retriever has a disease or other medical condition that causes them to lose hair in clumps. In that case, you can see a medical professional who will prescribe the necessary medication to help your dog. If your Golden Retriever is not getting the necessary nutrients, their hair will fall out in clumps because they are not supported by the appropriate nutrients. Organic Food is nutrient-dense and healthy for your Golden Retriever. Many organic food brands ensure, as far as possible, that their food does not cause your dog to experience an allergic reaction. A change in diet takes a while for you to see the difference; however, you can rip more benefits by making the necessary changes as soon as you can. Remember that the longer you refuse to make the required change, the more your Golden Retriever is in discomfort. Supplements Sometimes your dog cannot get all their necessary nutrients in the correct amount simply from their dog food. In such situations, you should consider getting some nutritional supplements for your dog. Supplements such as fish oil contain omega-3 fatty acids. Shampoo Failing to bathe your Golden Retriever correctly results in a mite and tick infestation. To help your Golden Retriever lose hair in clumps, you need to introduce medicated shampoo to their grooming routine. The longer you take to identify the cause, the longer your Golden Retriever will be in discomfort. Early diagnosis can spare you and your Golden Retriever a whole lot of trouble. Your veterinarian would also be able to tell you exactly how you should go about treating your Golden Retriever. These collars are long-lasting and last up to months. You can use these collars alongside your normal ID collars. Old Golden Retriever loses their hair because of aging, skin allergies, dry skin, poor diet, parasites, infestation of fleas, and certain health conditions. If your Golden Retriever manifests abnormal shedding, you should consult a vet. Your Golden Retriever could be losing hair because of medical conditions such as hypothyroidism or an allergic reaction. In some cases, your Golden Retriever may be losing hair due to age, parasites, dry skin, or skin infections. After your Golden Retriever gives birth, it is normal for her to lose hair. The loss of hair is an aftermath of being in labor; however, you should consult your veterinarian if she displays other symptoms along with losing hair. Your Golden Retriever could be losing hair on their tail because of flea allergy dermatitis. It is usual for your Golden Retriever puppy to lose their hair because it is part of their growth. They lose their puppyhood fur, and their fur is replaced with stronger strands. However, if they lose an excessive amount of fur, it may indicate a medical issue or poor nourishment. Conclusion When your Golden Retriever is losing hair in clumps, it could be the result of poor nourishment, and in some cases, your Golden Retriever may be a symptom of allergies, a disease, or parasites. When you notice that your Golden Retriever is losing hair in clumps, you should take them to the veterinarian as soon as you can. Ensure that your dog does not suffer unnecessarily by having them diagnosed as soon as you can. That said, piles of their golden mane can create a hairy situation—especially if your work pants get in the way. Weekly brushing will help you mitigate hairy couches and unsightly pant bottoms and give you an opportunity to bond with your pup. The American Kennel Club recommends brushing golden retrievers before bath time. During their youth, golden retrievers are often bundles of energy. Pay attention to age — When your dog is a puppy, use a soft brush until their full double coat has grown in. Then, you can start to use a slick shedding-specific brush that can rake their undercoat. We recommend: A large pin brush — Most of your brushing on a golden retriever should be done with a pin brush. The wide and sturdy bristles of a pin brush are essential for raking out debris your golden retriever probably gets into some messes! Getting a golden retriever into the tub can sometimes be an adventure all on its own. These dogs were bred to fetch ducks from lakes, so they have evolved coats that are highly water resistant. Step 3: Rinse twice — Once again, golden retrievers have really thick coats! Just go with it. Step 5: Towel them dry — For a bit of extra pampering, you might also try a canine blow dryer. Suggestion: Try a Foaming Shampoo Bath time with a golden retriever can sometimes turn into a wrestling match. While that kind of sounds like fun, there are times when we all wish shampooing the pooch was a little easier. And as you now know, healthy coats lead to less shedding. Tumbleweed-like furballs are what you signed up for when you adopted a golden retriever. We also know that it can be hard to keep your golden retriever off the furniture and out of your bed. These buddies just want to be around their humans. However, golden retrievers are super smart, love positive reinforcement and, like all dogs, are happy to have their own space. By training your golden retriever to sleep in a dog bed instead of on the furniture , you can keep most of their shedding in a designated area. When Do Golden Retrievers Shed? Double-coated dogs will shed some fur year-round, but there are two particular times of the year when their shedding is at the most extreme. In the spring — During the spring, your golden retriever will shed their thick, winterized undercoat in order to make way for a lighter weight summer coat. Just in time for allergy season! In the fall — Just as summer starts to fade, your golden retriever will get rid of that lighter undercoat in order to replace it with a thicker winter coat. Of course, this timeline can change depending on your local climate. That means that dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors will have more pronounced shedding cycles, whereas homebody indoor dogs can end up shedding consistently throughout the year. If you notice heavy shedding, especially out of the golden retriever shedding season, or that their fur appears to be thinning, that could be a sign of golden retriever skin issues or any other health concern. As such, consult your veterinarian if you notice irregular pet hair loss. The shampoo sprays on, foams instantly, and rinses fast—which makes cleaning up almost as fun as getting dirty. With storefronts on Amazon , Chewy , and Petco , Vetericyn is now easier to find than ever. Reviewed by Dan Richardson, Veterinarian Dan Richardson has been a practicing veterinarian for over 10 years. He specializes in surgery and orthopedics. Dan is originally from rural western Nevada and attended the University of Idaho for undergraduate study and Oregon State University for Veterinary School. The Richardson Family enjoys camping and spending time on the water fishing, paddle boarding, or digging their feet in the sand somewhere warm. Sources: American Kennel Club. Golden Retriever Coat Care. Why do dogs shed?