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We are a responsible breeding program dedicated to staying true to the original Golden Retriever breed. Our love for animals began at a young age, but truly took off when we added Brinkley to our family. We can honestly both say that we will never own another dog breed. Golden Retrievers are loyal, silly, loving, smart, and everything you could want in a dog. When we decided we wanted to breed Brinkley we spent years researching breeding standards and protocols knowing we would eventually add our own stud to the program. We then added Rory, a field-bred golden retriever with Champion Bloodlines to sire our litters. We think the puppies that we produce are the perfect mix of performance and general house companionship. We also implement advanced programs like Badass Breeder and Puppy Culture. We are always studying and improving our breeding practices. When puppies are not in the house; we enjoy skiing, hockey, boating, or relaxing with the big dogs! The experience, the service, the care Fort Worth Goldens provided during the process is incredible! I highly recommend!! She only woke up twice to pee last night. We put her back in the crate and she cried for maybe 5 mins each time then went right back to sleep. I was shocked at how quickly she settled down! We have 3 small children, and wanted to make sure we chose a responsible breeder. We contacted the generous owners at Ft Worth Goldens, and they invited us to meet Brinkley, their beautiful Golden who is having pups soon. They did not did not disappoint! Warm loving home, dogs are so well taken care of and highly trained. We secured our deposit for a male pup, and look forward to this exciting time. We have answers. Visiting each of the Golden Retriever breeders in Fort Worth, if you could even do that, still offers a limited selection compared to what you can find through Uptown Puppies. We've vetted the country's top breeders and companies to provide you with a vast variety of choices you can search through in a safe and secure way. Where did Golden Retrievers originate? For that, we look to Lord Tweedmouth. The Scottish politician is credited with creating the breed in the mids through a breeding program aimed at siring the perfect hunting dog. Some more Spaniels and Setters added to the end result of the modern-day Golden Retriever. Is a Golden Retriever for sale in Fort Worth good for an apartment? Golden Retrievers can adapt to apartment life. Their considerable size from 55 to 75 pounds and high energy lends them better to homes with yards. But any Fort Worth Golden Retriever for sale you choose will do fine in a more limited living space if you get them outside for plenty of exercise each day. Do we call Golden Retrievers "designer dogs? Designer dogs are mixes of two different purebreds. For example, if you cross a Golden Retriever with a Rottweiler you get a Goldenweiler. The almost endless variety of designer dogs makes them quite popular! Because we make sure that any Fort Worth Golden Retriever puppies for sale through Uptown can have full "nose-to-tail" health checkups. How big do Golden Retrievers get? Considered a medium-large breed, male Golden Retrievers usually weigh between 65 and 75 pounds, with heights of around 23 and 24 inches. Females are almost always smaller, weighing between 55 and 65 pounds and standing about 21 or 22 inches tall. All Golden Retrievers usually reach their full sizes between their first and second years of age. Many of the Golden Retriever breeders Fort Worth has to offer have their own policies regarding transportation. You can speak with them to find out how they would like to go forward with the transfer. They can also tell you all about your puppy, from its health history and current diet to the various milestones it has passed. How does Uptown work? Just start browsing pups! Maybe go in with no plan. Maybe begin with an eye toward a specific pup like the Golden Retrievers for sale Fort Worth breeders and companies have listed. Pick out your favorite pup. Contact its breeder. With your questions answered and transportation arranged, that puppy will be yours in no time! You can usually find bargain pups from disreputable breeders, but those canines often suffer from health and behavioral issues due to maltreatment. Any Golden Retriever for sale Fort Worth breeders and companies list with Uptown comes at a fair price that's in line with the humane care the puppies receive. We champion the work of reputable shelters -- we're dog lovers after all! We're just very different. For example, we insist on full transparency and disclosure from the professional breeders and businesses in our network. In contrast, any Golden Retriever Fort Worth shelters have will most likely be a mystery in terms of health and behavioral history.

It comes in a large bottle, size 32 oz. Bacteria, mold, fleas, parasites, fungus, and more can get trapped and hidden within a Golden Retrievers furry coat. This shampoo contains ingredients that treat skin scaling, hydrate the skin, promote healing, relieve parasite infections, and remove fungus and bacteria. This shampoo is known for its fast-acting formula that also heals rashes, bald spots, and dry, itchy skin. Veterinary Formula works to provide quality medical ingredients at an affordable price for pet owners. This shampoo leaves your dog clean and smelling fresh without having to use any water. Ingredients found in this shampoo are paraben-free, alcohol-free, and plant-based with no harsh chemicals. If your Golden Retriever likes to avoid bath time at all costs, do not hesitate to try this waterless, no-rinse shampoo. This shampoo is specifically targeted to reduce the amount of shedding in dogs like Golden Retrievers. It contains Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids that will get your dog clean and smelling fresh. There are no parabens or dyes in the ingredients that would harm your dog. You can purchase a 16 oz. Best Puppy Shampoo for Golden Retrievers While many of the above shampoos would work great for your Golden puppy, below are a couple options that we recommend if you are looking for something specifically for a puppy. This shampoo contains all-natural ingredients that are safe for dogs of all ages. It provides relief for allergies with an added hypoallergenic lotion, which contains antifungal and antibacterial ingredients that work to reduce flea yeast. Not only do the ingredients in this shampoo smell great, but they also keep odors away for extended periods. Do not hesitate to get a 17 oz. The mild and natural ingredients in this puppy shampoo make it safe for dogs of all ages and help prevent irritation to the eyes, nose, and paws. There are no harsh chemicals, colorants, or fragrances, which make it completely safe and well recommended by veterinarians. This fantastic all-purpose shampoo for puppies comes in a 16 oz. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Shampoo for Golden Retrievers When it comes to choosing the right shampoo for your golden retriever, there are several factors to consider. Look for shampoos that are specifically formulated for dogs and have a pH level between 6. You should also consider the ingredients in the shampoo, as some dogs may have sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients. As mentioned before, Golden Retrievers have a double coat that will easily trap unwanted dirt, smells, pests, sweat, and more. To keep your dog clean and smelling fresh, you will want to bathe and groom it frequently. The number of baths you give your dog should be based on its activity level, skin sensitivity, allergies, and hair length. For example, if your Golden Retriever has more sensitive skin, bathing your dog too frequently can lead to skin dryness and irritation. So if you find your dog has these symptoms, try reducing the frequency of baths and introducing a moisturized shampoo. Having the right shampoo for your dog will allow it to stay cleaner and smell fresh longer. Tips for Bathing a Golden Retriever When bathing a Golden Retriever, you want the experience to be both enjoyable for you and your dog. Below are some brief tips to help the process go smoothly. For a more in-depth look, read our article How to Bathe a Golden Retriever. Sample a few different types at first until you find the one best for your dog. Brush your dog before the bath. You will want to prep your dog before each bath by brushing away excess fur and removing tangles. Be consistent. Just like children, dogs will feel more comfortable in a familiar place with an established routine. Use the same bathtub or area of the yard each time you bathe your dog. Have everything with you. The last thing you want to do is get your dog watered down and then realize you are missing an essential bath time item. Make sure you have everything you need before you start, so you never have to leave your dog unattended. Be sure to have a comfortable water temperature. Select a water temperature that is comfortable for your dog. It may be tempting to use cold water, but treat your dog like a child and provide it with the right water temperature. Warmer water will also do a better job at cleaning than cold water. Follow the directions on the shampoo bottle. Each type of shampoo is different. Some are tear-free and safe for eyes, paws, and nose; others are not. The shampoo bottle will tell you how to lather, scrub, and rinse your dog to get the best results possible. Dry your dog. After each bath, you should dry your dog with a towel or blow dryer rather than letting it air dry. This will keep it warmer and reduce the amount of water that drips or is shaken off. Do Golden Retrievers Need a Conditioner? The question of whether to use a conditioner on a Golden Retriever is a common one. Lots of great shampoo products include some conditioning elements in their formula, so if you are unsure if you want to use a pure conditioner, this might be an excellent way to go. Also, if you are using a high-quality shampoo for your dog, then using a conditioner might not even be necessary. If you decide to use one, there are several benefits to using a dog conditioner. You do not always need to apply conditioner right after shampooing your dog. There can be some adverse effects when using a conditioner on your dog. If you see any of these symptoms, then stop using the conditioner and just wash with shampoo. Some symptoms might include skin irritation, weakened hair shafts, or trapped dirt after applying the conditioner. Do not attempt to use a human conditioner on your dog. When it comes to washing your dog, always try to use dog-specific products. Tips on Reducing Odor? It will also help significantly in reducing its unpleasant odors; however, a good shampoo is not the only thing needed to keep a dog smelling fresh with a healthy coat. Test out different shampoos for your dog until you find one that keeps it smelling fresh longer. Increase grooming. Wash its bedding weekly. For more information on solving your dogs odor problems, see our article Do Golden Retrievers Smell. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Bathing Your Golden Retriever Bathing your golden retriever may seem like a simple task, but there are several common mistakes that you should avoid. One mistake is not brushing your golden before the bath, as this can lead to tangles and mats in their coat. To prevent this, place a cotton ball in each ear and remove them once the bath is complete. Use only the recommended amount of shampoo, and make sure to rinse thoroughly. Instead, use a low heat setting or let them air dry. Because there are so many different dog shampoos on the market, try out a few different ones recommended in this article that you think will meet the needs of your dog. Once you find the one you like, stick with that shampoo to provide your dog with a healthy coat of fur. Remember always to avoid using human products. Use a dog conditioner if you feel it is necessary, or select a shampoo that has conditioner added. Or, if you are more interested in different options for dog brushes, check out our article Best Dog Brushes for Golden Retrievers. She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. Because of this, you want to look for hypoallergenic shampoos. If your dog has an allergy to oat proteins, for example, be sure not to use a shampoo that contains oatmeal. You also want to avoid any artificial fragrances, perfumes, or colors for this same reason. To reduce skin irritation , look for shampoos that are specially formulated for dogs and are pH balanced. Deodorizers Deodorizers in dog shampoos can be helpful when you have a dog that likes to spend a great deal of time getting dirty. No one likes sharing a house with a stinky pup, so deodorizers can make a big difference. The important thing is that the deodorizing ingredients are natural and not too harsh. Brightening Ingredients Golden Retrievers have beautiful blonde coats , but their fur can sometimes look dull and dingy. Be sure to look for natural ingredients. Making it a safe and gentle product for your fur baby. The shampoo contains omega-3 and -6 fatty acids that promote healthy skin and a shiny coat. Featured Image Credit: pixels, Shutterstock Contents. The thick, fine double-coat of a Golden Retriever can get tangled or trap dirt and odors, so they need regular bathing to stay clean. Along with baths, your Golden Retriever should have regular grooming to keep them clean in between bathing. Double coats are prone to mats and tangles and may trap dirt and oil, leaving your dog with irritation and a dull coat. If your dog is prone to shedding or odors, choose a shampoo that addresses these problems. Always brush your dog before bathing to remove excess fur and remove tangles. This also prevents a lot of fur from getting trapped in your drain. Follow the directions on the shampoo bottle. Consider a 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner. Golden Retrievers benefit from conditioners that keep their coats silky and tangle-free. If your dog gets nervous at bath time, having a 2-in-1 formula reduces the time spent in the bath while providing the conditioning benefits. Be consistent. Plus, your dog will get used to the routine and may become more comfortable with grooming. Conclusion Golden Retrievers are prized for their long, silky coats, but with that comes extra grooming and bathing responsibilities. Fortunately, dog shampoo for Golden Retrievers can help with detangling, coat and skin health, and issues like itching or odor. See Also:. Specially formulated to reduce shedding in dogs, this shampoo enhances the effectiveness of deshedding tools. It is made with natural ingredients that help control excessive shedding by promoting healthy skin and coat. Other natural ingredients, including calendula extract, chamomile extract, and papaya leaf extract have soothing properties and help soothe dry and itchy skin. Cruelty-free and made without sulfates, colorants, or other harmful ingredients, this gentle shampoo is completely safe for regular use on young puppies or adult dogs. This tearless shampoo is made with the mildest ingredients to make bath time more pleasant for both you and your pup. Additionally, their active lifestyle means they tend to pick up dirt that hangs onto their coat, and since they are high shedders, you can expect them to leave that dirt around your home! A good shampoo is a must, since you will need to bathe your golden retriever once every four to six weeks or more often if they tend to get dirty. Unless your golden retriever has a specific skin condition for which they need a specific vet-approved product, when choosing the best dog shampoos for goldens, consider the following factors. Natural Ingredients: You should always avoid shampoos that contain harsh chemicals such as parabens and phosphates. Since golden retrievers tend to be prone to allergies, their skin and coats can greatly benefit from the use of hypoallergenic dog shampoos. Odor Control: Naturally energetic and active, golden retrievers like to play and can get stinky in no time! If you need help keeping your dog smelling fresh, look for a shampoo with deodorizing properties. Hydration: Whether or not your golden has skin problems, you should look for a shampoo that will keep their skin properly hydrated. Puppies benefit from different ingredients and formulations than adult dogs, and if your dog has sensitive skin, you may need to fork out money for a more expensive shampoo. Similarly, you can get deshedding shampoos to help you manage specific problems such as shedding, fleas and ticks, or dandruff and similar issues. Below is a list of the different types of shampoos you might want to consider for your dog. Not only do puppies have more sensitive skin than adult dogs, but they also have sensitive eyes. For this reason, look for mild and tearless puppy shampoos that are formulated to make the bathing process less stressful and more enjoyable for both you and your pooch. Flea And Tick This type of shampoo can be natural or chemical and is designed to kill fleas and ticks. For the best results, you will have to work it into the coat and leave it for 10 minutes to sit before rinsing. Depending on the type you choose, some flea and tick shampoos have repelling properties and will keep these blood-sucking pests at bay for some time. You can find out more about flea and tick shampoos for dogs here. Medicated Dog Shampoos These shampoos are designed to tackle skin conditions and have antifungal, antibacterial, and antiseptic effects. If your golden retriever suffers from allergies, skin mites, seborrhea, or has a yeast infection, your vet might prescribe a medicated dog shampoo. All-Purpose Shampoo A good quality, all-purpose shampoo is essential if you want to keep your dog clean. Look for one that has natural ingredients and is hypoallergenic. Chances are, they are going to get dirty often and need regular bathing. Exactly how often you need to bathe your dog depends on their specific coat and activity level, but even dogs that spend most of their time inside need to be bathed at least once a month. Here are our top tips for making bathing your golden retriever as easy and effective as possible. Brush your dog before bathing them to remove loose hair, dirt, and debris from its coat. Make sure to soak the coat all the way to the skin so you can work in the lather properly and remove all dirt and grime. When bathing your golden retriever, place a towel or a mat inside the tub. Use treats to entice your goldie to get into and stay in the tub during bathing. Generally speaking, you should bathe your golden retriever once every four to six weeks to keep their luxurious coat clean. However, if your goldie tends to get dirty quickly, you can bathe them more often. What can I use to bathe my golden retriever? Make sure you are using dog shampoo whenever you bathe your golden retriever. Dogs have a different skin pH than people, and dog shampoos are specially formulated as to not dry or damage their skin. Can I use human shampoo on my golden retriever? You should never use human shampoo on your dog! This is because human hair and skin are slightly acidic, and therefore our shampoos are formulated with a slightly acidic pH, of 5. Dog skin and hair has a more neutral pH of around 6. If you regularly wash your dog with human shampoo, you can disrupt the acidic mantle that protects them, making them vulnerable to parasites, viruses, and bacteria. Can I bathe my dog with baby shampoo? You technically can bathe your dog with baby shampoo because it is designed with a neutral pH to accommodate the more sensitive skin of babies. However, you are still better off choosing a specialized dog shampoo for your golden rather than relying on baby shampoo as an alternative. After all, you are what you eat. A diet that is rich in healthy fats, Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, and fish oils will give your dog the nutrients they need to grow and maintain a healthy coat. Regular brushing, using a good dog brush , to remove dirt and debris and spread oils throughout the coat can also make a big difference. How do you bathe a golden retriever at home? Many first-time owners worry about how they will manage to bathe their golden at home. Fortunately, goldens are actually one of the easier breeds to bathe. They are cooperative, highly trainable, and love water, so they are more likely to tolerate a good soak and scrub than many other breeds. The key is to be gentle but firm and to teach your dog the behavior that you expect at bathtime through positive reinforcement training. Another important thing to remember is that bathing is going to be a wet and messy process, so do it outside, in the shower, or somewhere similar, and watch out for slippery floors. If they slip, they could hurt themselves or leave a big wet patch on your carpet or couch. Conclusion Regular baths are what you signed up for when you welcomed a golden retriever into your home! While all shampoos listed above can do wonders for your goldie, the Hylyt Hypoallergenic Shampoo for Dogs is our choice for best overall. Our other recommendations for the best dog shampoos for goldens are ideal for specific circumstances and needs. What is your favorite shampoo for bathing your golden, and why? Share your advice with the community in the comments section below. You May Also Like.

Boxer puppies for sale Lincoln, Nebraska Boxer puppies for sale Lincoln, Nebraska Introduction of the Boxer The Boxer dog breed originated in Germany and has been around since the late 19th century. His main purpose is for hunting large game. But this dog breed was also useful in guarding and driving livestock. It is said that he got his name due to using his front paws for just about anything. Boxer dogs look intimidating with their stern-looking faces and powerful bodies. But they are actually very loving family dogs that get along with children and other animals. They love being with their families, and being separated from them can lead them to develop separation anxiety. Since this working dog is highly intelligent but stubborn in nature, he is better suited for experienced owners. The average lifespan of the breed is 9—10 years. Look for a boxer puppies for sale Lincoln Nebraska? Here is a brief background of this protective dog with a good sense of humour. History of the Boxer The Boxer dog breed is a descendant of the now-extinct Bullenbeisser a fighting dog with Mastiff ancestry and the Old English Bulldog. He was developed in Germany in the 19th century as hunters of deer, wild boar, and bear. Later on, he was used to guard and drive cattle. The man responsible for the creation of the Boxer breed was Georg Alt, who was from Munich. He crossed a brindle-coloured female Bullenbeisser named Flora with a local dog of unknown breed. In , the first German Boxer dog named Flocki joined a dog show in Munich. After winning the dog show, he was the first-ever Boxer dog to be listed down in the German Studbook. Modern Boxer dogs were believed to be the descendants of Flocki. Boxer puppies for sale in Lincoln NE The Boxer dog breed slowly gained popularity throughout Europe in the late s. He was then imported to the United States in and was accepted by the American Kennel Club the following year. The American Boxer Club was established in .In both world wars, various military tasks were given to Boxer dogs including guard dogs, attack dogs, and messenger dogs. The British Boxer Dog Club was then formed in .The Boxer breed was recognised by the Kennel Club shortly thereafter and classified under the Working Group. Versatile and hard-working, these dogs are capable of carrying out different canine work. Boxers are good choices for protection dogs, police dogs, service dogs, and guide dogs for the blind. Temperament and Intelligence of the Boxer puppies Lincoln for sale Extremely patient and gentle, the Boxer breed is good with children. But he is recommended for families with older children as he may accidentally knock over toddlers. Befriending other pets is possible if the Boxer dog is properly socialised at a young age. It will keep him from viewing small animals as prey and reduce his tendency to dominate same-sex dogs. Is a Boxer a good family dog? Yes, the Boxer breed is a good family dog. He may look noble and intimidating, but he is actually considered the Joker of the Dog World. Boxer dogs are playful and fun-loving. They love to be part of family activities and be the centre of attention. Are Boxer dogs dangerous? Boxer dogs may be tough-looking, but they are not generally aggressive. But they will stand guard and defend their families if necessary. Boxer dogs are initially wary of strangers, but they eventually warm up to them if no danger is detected. Their protective and loyal nature makes them good guard dogs as well as watchdogs. Are Boxers easy to train? Yes, Boxer dogs are easy to train if you are already experienced in handling the breed. They are intelligent but tend to be independent and stubborn. Due to this, they are not suited for first-time owners. Boxer dogs respond better to people that are firm and consistent. However, firm does not mean harsh. Instead of strict training methods, positive reinforcements are more effective in teaching this breed basic dog manners and tricks. Boxer Breed Highlights The Boxer dog breed is a loving, loyal, and protective companion. Boxer dogs are comical companions despite their intimidating appearance. The Boxer breed has low-maintenance grooming needs. As an energetic working dog, he has high exercise needs. Boxer dogs tend to be destructive when they are left alone or unable to let off steam. Are there miniature boxers? Yes, but they are rare. Miniature boxers are either a product of mating purebred runts or cross-breeding small dogs that have similar characteristics to boxers, such as Boston terriers, pugs, rat terriers, and fox terriers. While some of these minis may closely resemble their larger counterparts, they may not act similarly. Are boxers hypoallergenic? Unfortunately, boxers are not hypoallergenic. What problems do Boxers have? Boxer dogs are brachycephalic, which means they have flat faces. This trait narrows their airway and causes breathing problems. As a result, Boxers should not be out in the sun for a long time as it can lead to heatstroke. Overexercising them must be avoided too to avoid triggering breathing difficulties. How long do Boxer dogs live? The Boxer dog breed has a short lifespan compared to other dogs. He can only live up to 9—10 years, and this is due to the prevalence of health issues in the breed. When buying a Boxer puppy, look for a reputable breeder whose breeding stock and litters are health-screened. This will help you determine how likely is your chosen Boxer puppy going to develop certain health conditions. Lincoln NE Lincoln is the capital city of the U. The city covers .It is the second-most populous city in Nebraska and the 68th-largest in the United States. The city is the economic and cultural anchor of a substantially larger metropolitan area in the southeastern part of the state called the Lincoln Metropolitan and Lincoln-Beatrice Combined Statistical Areas. The statistical area is home to , people, making it the th-largest combined statistical area in the United States. Wiki Lincoln Drop us a line! We will not send you unnecessary notices in the future. My name is Tetyana and I am glad to welcome you on the site of the breed nursery. Welcome to the Nebraska state page on TrustedPuppies. Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, Nebraska is known for its picturesque landscapes, friendly communities, and a wealth of dog-friendly activities. Our site features a wide variety of reputable Nebraska breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our NE breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. For those who enjoy the dog show scene, events such as the Nebraska Kennel Club Dog Show are perfect opportunities to engage with fellow Boxer enthusiasts and admire these fantastic dogs. With approximately thousand dogs, Nebraska is the 31st state in the United States in terms of dog ownership. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable Boxer breeders provide secure and affordable flight delivery, with a devoted flight nanny accompanying your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring a safe and comfortable trip as they travel to their new home in the Cornhusker State. In addition to flight delivery, most breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option ensures your Boxer puppy is brought to your doorstep by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet transportation. Start your search for the perfect Boxer puppy today on TrustedPuppies.

You can expect moderate shedding from this crossbreed. Be prepared to use a vacuum cleaner often. Most German Sheppits will come in a variety of colors like tan, black, white, fawn, and gray. Some have beautiful multi-colored coats like the GSD, while others inherit the brindle coats of their Pittie parents. Because of its moderate shedding, the German Pit is not the ideal dog for people who suffer from allergies to dander. Is a Shepherd-Pitbull mix dangerous? As we mentioned before, this breed is often negatively associated with being aggressive. A Shepherd Pit Bull mix is a loyal, intelligent, protective, and bold dog that likes spending time with his family. This canine has a calm and loving personality toward its owner, but it can be an attention-grabber, too. She loves nothing more than to run, play Frisbee, and roll around all day. Just make sure that your German Pitbull mix puppy is introduced correctly to small kids. Proper socialization and training are crucial because these dogs tend to chase down smaller animals. They may also have a dominant personality and may try to be the alpha to other dogs. Being raised with other pets will help this crossbreed co-exist with them. With early training and socialization, this naturally friendly and affectionate dog is an excellent choice for a family pet and the perfect companion for children. How much activity does this crossbreed need? A Pitbull German Shepherd hybrid has a strong and robust physique and he requires plenty of physical activity. You can take your dog on a one-hour jog or run in the morning and a minute walk in the evening to keep him in the excellent physical condition and as release excess energy. Without a proper exercise regimen, he may exhibit unruly and destructive behaviors like excessive barking, hole-digging, or chewing on slippers. Remember to keep it slow with a German Pit puppy because his legs are shorter. After that age, you can increase your speed as long as he can keep up. He can also have some playtime, like romping in the dog park. Or maybe play some fetch and let him catch a frisbee so his brain gets a workout, too. These crossbreeds require a high level of physical and mental activity to be in their best form. How to train Pitbull German Shepherd mix puppies The unfortunate truth is that this hybrid is not easy to train and is not suited for first-time dog owners. You need to be a firm and confident alpha , or he will try to control you. Be patient and try not to give in. Socializing him at an early age helps him interact better with other animals and encourages a better sense of adaptability in the dog. Socialization also fixes anxious and timid behavior and will help your pet get along with your family members. This breed may be intelligent, but he has a certain level of stubbornness when it comes to training. This hybrid tends to bark quite frequently, too, so you may want to include a routine that will help you control excessive barking. Try including crate training and leash training in your sessions. Starting it young is the best way to train a German Sheppit. The best age to start would be at seven weeks old. An adult dog can still receive training, although it will be more difficult. These are the most common health concerns to watch out for in your German Sheppit:. Parent Breeds The parent breeds of the German shepherd pitbull mix include the German shepherd and the American pitbull terrier. As these breeds are both large dogs, the resulting mix is a large dog with unique physical and personality traits from both parent breeds. German Shepherd The German shepherd was originally selectively bred from shepherd dogs in 19th century Germany, where it was used as a herding dog. The breed was developed to be intelligent, strong, agile, and protective of flocks, all qualities that made it successful in its line of work. Horand von Grafath was recognized as the first German shepherd dog in .Today, the breed is still regarded as one of the best working dogs in the world because of its loyalty and eagerness to please. The German shepherd is used in police work, detection, service work, and search and rescue. German shepherd pitbull mixes often inherit the protective, hardworking temperament, strength, and wolf-like features of the German shepherd. The dogs were bred from terriers and bulldogs and used in blood sports like bullbaiting and dogfighting. American pitbull terriers were later selectively bred in the United States to have the muscular builds, sizes, and affectionate temperaments seen today. With proper socialization, American pitbull terriers make loyal, well-behaved companions. Lifespan A German shepherd pitbull mix has an average life expectancy of 10 to 12 years if the dog follows a nutritious diet and exercises daily. Regular vet checkups help reduce the risk of health complications in German shepherd pitbull mixes. This mixed breed comes in shades of tan, white, gray, or black. Height and Weight German shepherd pitbull mixes are considered large dogs, with a height at the withers of 18—26 inches, and a weight of 30—90 pounds. Males are typically larger than females. Most German sheppits are lean, muscular, and slightly taller than their pitbull parents. Colors German shepherd pitbull mixes are typically tan, white, or black with bicolor markings. The coat color depends on the genes they inherit from their parents: German shepherd colors: Most common color combination is black and tan. Other colors include solid black, gray, red, and white. American pitbull terrier colors: Common colors are brown, black, and tan with various markings. Rare colors include solid white and brindle. German sheppits shed minimally to moderately throughout the year, depending on coat type. Double-coated dogs blow their coats twice a year. Personality and Temperament Photo by spcaofnorthernnevada German shepherd pitbull mixes are smart, affectionate, and protective dogs that form strong bonds with their owners. They get along well with kids, and their intelligence and athletic stature make them well-suited to agility classes and fieldwork. Socializing and training this mixed breed from a young age will help it grow into an outgoing, obedient, and even-tempered adult. These dogs can be trained with positive reinforcement from an early age to not bark excessively. Left alone, German sheppits often experience anxiety and engage in destructive behavior, like barking and scratching, to cope. While smart and not fussy over food, these dogs need plenty of exercise, training, and mental stimulation to stay happy. Food Needs A German sheppit adult should be fed 2 to 3. Grooming Needs The German shepherd pitbull mix should be brushed weekly, or a few times per week if it has inherited a double coat, to distribute natural oils and keep its fur tangle-free. Bathe the dog once every few months and ensure its nails are well-trimmed. Exercise Needs An adult German shepherd pitbull mix requires at least 60 minutes of exercise per day, split into two separate walks, to remain physically fit. A two-month-old puppy needs 10 minutes of exercise per day, while a four-month-old puppy requires 20 minutes. German sheppits do best in homes with large, secure backyards where they can run freely. Certain states, cities, and territories have laws in place that restrict or ban pitbulls and pitbull mixes. Check local laws before exercising this mixed breed in new areas. Mental Needs German shepherd pitbull mixes need 60 minutes of mental stimulation per day to prevent aggression, boredom, and anxiety. Suitable mentally-stimulating activities include obedience training, scent work, herding, puzzle toys, agility classes, and interactive games like fetch. Depending on the severity, the condition can be managed with medication and surgery. Bloat : When the stomach fills with gas, food, or fluid, and then twists, causing severe abdominal pain. Bloat is often fatal if not treated immediately. Hip dysplasia : Abnormal formation of the hip joint that causes pain and mobility issues. Treatable with surgery and lifestyle changes. Degenerative myelopathy : Degeneration of the spinal cord that causes leg weakness, incontinence, and eventually paralysis. The condition is managed and treated with lifestyle changes, anti-inflammatory medication, and in some cases surgery. Symptoms include lethargy, weight gain, exercise intolerance, and coat changes. Hypothyroidism is treatable with medication. Cataracts : Cloudiness of the eye lens that causes vision issues. The German sheppit is particularly prone to food and skin allergies. Take these dogs to regular vet checkups to reduce their risks of health complications. Use positive reinforcement and be firm and consistent when training this mixed breed. Never use punishment-based training methods because these can cause anxiety in dogs and exacerbate their aggressive behaviors. These dogs need plenty of training and socialization throughout their lives to keep their dog aggression in check. German shepherd pitbull mixes are often available for adoption from rescue shelters. This price includes expenses such as food, treats, vet checkups, toys, and training. First-year costs are higher than subsequent years because of the costs of first-year puppy vaccinations and neutering or spaying, and initial supplies like bedding. The German shepherd pitbull mix is an affectionate and loyal dog that loves pleasing its owners. The mixed breed is playful, energetic, and well-suited to people that lead active lifestyles. German shepherd pitbull mixes are suitable for people that are active, have a large backyard, and can dedicate lots of time to socializing and training the dog. The best owners for these dogs are people that use positive reinforcement measures and stick to set boundaries. First-time dog owners should also avoid these dogs because the breed is difficult to manage without proper socialization and training. Check out these other hybrid dog breeds: German Shepherd Mixes. Conclusion 1. What does a German Shepherd Pitbull Mix look like? It is impossible to tell with certainty what the dog will look like when it is a mixed breed. What we do know is that this breed is more likely to have the face of the Pitbull, with a broad head and a short muzzle. As for coloring, this breed comes in a variety of colors: black, white, brown, tan, gray and fawn. Given that both the Pitbull and German Shepherd have strong physiques, it is not surprising that this mixed breed does too. Fully grown, these dogs are large , as mentioned in the first paragraph their average weight between lbs 29 — 38 kgs , so it is important that you have her under control. You can do this by properly training and socializing her. What characteristics can I expect? As with all crossbreeds, it is not easy to say precisely what temperament this dog will have, as it will always be a different combination. In my experience, however, they tend to have the following traits: High energy All dogs need regular exercise to stay fit, and this large breed usually needs a whole lot. I recommend at least a one-hour walk a day, providing you have an outdoor space where she can release excess energy for the rest of the day. By giving her the exercise she needs, you will avoid undesired behaviors such as slipper-chewing, hole-digging or nuisance barking. As long as she gets her exercise needs met, she will be happy to settle down and relax with you. Loyal and loving Pitbull German Shepherd mixes are very affectionate dogs when raised right. While they are good at entertaining themselves, they still love to be around you and make a good family dog. This dog can have a very protective nature. This is due to its German Shepherd relatives , who were bred to herd and guard livestock. To prevent this from the outset, you should socialize her with people as much as possible from an early age. Intelligence Both the Pitbull and the German Shepherd are incredibly intelligent breeds. It is no surprise, then, that this mix is no exception. These dogs learn quickly and respond incredibly well to training and commands. Just as you exercise her body, it is important to keep her mind stimulated, too. You should start training at the earliest possible stage. It is important to keep a close eye on this type of behavior because, if it gets out of control, it can turn into aggression. What are the common health problems? Providing that she has a healthy lifestyle, as we mentioned above this breed can live for up to 12 years. Every dog breed is susceptible to certain health difficulties, however, and it is good to be aware of these so that you can treat your dog accordingly. In the meantime, it is worth knowing that this breed can suffer from the following diseases: Skin irritation The Pitbull German Shepherd mix can be prone to skin irritation, which they inherit from the Pitbull side of its family. They tend to have more sensitive skin, which can react strongly to insect bites as well as to fleas and ticks. To prevent this reaction, make sure you use a high-quality tick and flea treatment. Diet also plays an important part in maintaining the health of the skin. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a condition that can begin in dogs as they grow and results in an unstable or loose hip joint. While weight management is essential for any dog breed, it is highly important that this breed maintains a healthy weight to avoid stressing the hip joint. How much will I need to groom her? This mix has a coat that can range from short to medium in length. I recommend starting your grooming regime when she is a puppy so that she can get used to the routine. I do not advise over-bathing these dogs no more than once a month due to their tendency to skin irritation. It may also be worth buying a shampoo specifically designed for dogs with sensitive skin. German Pits are usually floppy-eared, which means they get less air circulation and are therefore more prone to earwax build-up and ear infections. I advise that you get her ears checked at least monthly, either at the vet or with a reputable groomer. So is the German Pit the right fit for me? After all the information you have read, it is now important to put this question to yourself. As you can see, these dogs have the potential to be lovely, loyal dogs that are ideal for a family. Yet they require a lot of attention, walking and training, so they need a dedicated, and preferably experienced, dog owner. Conclusion Here are the main points to consider before committing to owning one of these dogs: Are you an experienced dog owner? Are you dedicated to walking your dog at least an hour a day? Do you have a spacious house with a yard, or can you walk her twice daily? Are you able to provide a rigorous and dedicated training routine? If not, it might be time to reconsider getting a different breed of dog. Do you own a German Shepherd Pitbull Mix? Leave a comment below and tell me all about it! About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. I have worked with various large breeds all my life. The German Shepherd is my favorite. I recently brought home a mixed breed. .Our Puppy is high energy at 8 weeks old. Highly intelligent and very affectionate. I have a large family with lots of boys and 1 girl. So our family is definitely the right fit! In my opinion every family member should have an caring active role in raising the family dog. German Shepherd Pitbull Mix Video Temperament They have a calm nature and somewhat affectionate nature that can be enhanced with proper training. The German Pit is loyal to its family, enjoying spending time with them. Though they may not need your attention always, contented enough to spent some time on their own, leaving them alone for prolonged periods might make them destructive. Since they take on the genes of the German Shepherd and Pitbull, the Pit-German Shepherd mix may inherit their guarding instincts to a certain extent, being protective towards its family and exhibiting wariness towards strangers. It could even be territorial with other dogs and get into a chasing mode on encountering smaller pets. While allowing them to interact with children ensure there is proper parental supervision and the dog has been well socialized. Care Exercise It has a high exercise need, requiring two brisk walks a day, along with sufficient playtime. Keeping its excessive energy levels in mind it is not recommended to keep it in an apartment or enclosed space as it might get restless. Remember to leash it while taking it out. Grooming Though it does not need excessive grooming, brushing your Shepherd Pit with a brush having hard bristles on a weekly basis would be sufficient enough. It might resent grooming in the beginning, so you need to handle it gently and use positive reinforcements if needed, to help it get accustomed. Bathe it when it gets dirty and also check its ears and eyes once a week to keep any infections at bay. Brushing its teeth and trimming its nails are also essential. Health Problems Though healthy, the German Pit might inherit some of the conditions suffered by its parents like bloating, hip and elbow dysplasia, allergies, hypothyroidism and heart problems. Training Training the German Shepherd mixed with Pitbull since its puppy days is mandatory, though an experienced master is preferred over a novice trainer. Socialization: Having the genes of German Shepherd and Pitbull, it might exhibit aggression and biting instinct, for which early socialization is a must. Teach it to differentiate between a threat and a pleasant situation so that your pet understands that a crying baby or playful kids playing in the yard is not bad. Feeding Feeding it cups good quality dry dog food in combination with a nutritious homemade diet would be sufficient. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. German Shepherd Pit Bulls are prone to weight gain. They also have high energy levels. About three hours a day of activity is recommended. Agility training, hiking, walking, running, or playing around a yard will keep them happy. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. One of the toughest jobs when caring for a German Shepherd Pit Bull is maintaining their oral health. You should brush their teeth daily, as many breeds are prone to dental issues. Vets or groomers are good at performing this messy task. You should consult your veterinarian or professional pet nutritionist for advice on what to feed your German Shepherd Pit Bull and the correct portion sizes. Their dietary needs will change as they grow from puppyhood to adulthood and into their senior years. Stay on top of these nutritional requirements. Their German Shepherd parents grow very rapidly between the ages of four and seven months, making them susceptible to bone disorders. They do well on a high-quality, low-calorie diet that keeps them from growing too fast. Overfeeding your German Shepherd Pit Bull and letting them pack on the pounds can cause joint problems, as well as other health conditions. Limit treats, keep them active, and serve them regular meals rather than leaving food available at all times. The main colors of German Shepherd Pit Bulls coats are brown, black, white, grey, tan, and fawn. Almost never solid, their coats are generally a mixture of two or more colors. They usually have short thick coats, and this mixed breed is not recommended for people with allergies. They tend to shed quite a bit and you may need to pick up a RoboVac. These pups will require at least three good brushes per week. Brushing will also help to spread the oils throughout the coat. German Shepherd Pit Bulls may be able to handle some extreme weather conditions for short periods of time. These dogs must live indoors with their families. However their size could put them at a disadvantage around smaller children. They could easily accidentally knock over a toddler. No matter how friendly, no dog should ever be left unsupervised with a small child. German Shepherd Pit Bulls can get along well other dogs, especially if raised with them. Socialization early on is a must for this mixed breed. For a better understanding of this breed read more about their parent breeds, the German Shepherd and American Pit Bull Terrier. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or American Pit Bull Terrier breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Temperament: It depends. A German Pit dog can be gentle, loving and protective of its family. It will like to be top dog and may challenge authority but with proper training it will learn who the master is. It gets bored easily. They cannot be left alone for long periods of time, or they can become noisy and naughty. Feelings and signals: Dogs communicate in many ways from playing to barking. Never approach a dog with its tail way down! How should you train a German Shepherd Pitbull Mix? With patience! There are several types of training required: obedience, discipline, agility and socialization. Each is important to help this type of puppy learn to socialize and behave. This looks like a dangerous dog so it is important to train it to challenge perceptions and show people the best of this breed instead. How do you begin puppy training? It will take time, patience, with positive reinforcement, using praise and small treats as a reward for success. So, if you are not going to use a professional dog trainer — Here are some tips to begin: 1 Develop your basic command words: Find the keywords you think you will use most like Sit, Stop, and Fetch etc. It will become its nest and it will feel safe and sleep there. Any mix from purebred dogs, could have congenital health problems. A German Shepherd and an American Pitbull Terrier cross breed could develop: Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a mal-formation of the hip joint, where the ball at the top of the leg does not fit properly into the socket and the ligaments attaching it are weak. This allows excess movement of the fitting which can eventually lead to stiffness and pain for the dog. This active dog could have hip problems, causing pain when moving. Early warning signs are — stiffness when getting up or walking, reluctance to get up when prompted and its usual walking style can change. It can occur early or later in life. The only way to check is to trace the health history of the birth parents. There is no cure but a Vet will help with medication to manage the pain. Skin problems Atopic dermatitis They can develop allergies causing skin conditions and itching — from grass, mold, pollen etc. Bloat Gastric Dilatation-volvulus Affects many deep-chested, larger dog breeds that like to eat large volumes quickly, drink too much water after eating or even eat too close to exercising. Early signs are: restlessness after eating, a bloated stomach and an inability to reject excess air or food through ineffective retching. In each case it is important to seek medical help! Exercise: This will be a very active dog, with lots of energy and need lots of exercise. They like to play chase and fetch. A puppy needs hours of exercise every day and more when older otherwise it will get bored. It will love running around and adventures but not adapt to small spaces. Therefore not suited to apartment living. Remember: Puppies should not be exercised too much on hard ground as their paws are still delicate so a mix of hard and softer ground is recommended until they are at least 2 years of age. Leash training is strongly recommended for discipline, safety and control in the early years. Feeding: Feed as an active large-sized dog with a recommended type of specially-formulated dry food. A Vet will advise the food type, exact amount, how often and if they need extra mineral and vitamins. Puppies should have their daily amount split into 3 daily feeds. Be careful not to over-feed them as weight gain can put pressure on their hips. Grooming: This dog has a short to medium length coat of hair that does shed but not too much so it only needs to be brushed times a week. A good brush is recommended. Bathing: This dog has short hair like the Pitbull so bathing is only recommended when needed, but not too often as their coats contain natural oil; which can be stripped with over-bathing. Certain shampoos have the double effect of cleaning the coat and protecting it against fleas and insect bites. Chewing helps, so use doggie chew toys, bare bones, soft tooth brushes and toothpaste. Nails grow quickly and need to be trimmed regularly, say once a month, and checked for infection. Their floppy ears need to be regularly checked for dirt build-up or infection. Anything unusual should be checked by a Vet. What is life like for a GSPM? Otherwise, with their high energy levels they may show their boredom through destroying or chewing things and barking. They can make a great family dog. Remember just how active this dog is before choosing one. How much does it cost? Always best to adopt rather than buy if you can. Adopting a German Shepherd Pitbull mix from an adoption center is the best thing you can do. It can be life changing — not only for the dog but to you as well. He requires a low-to-medium maintenance level due to its short coat and a moderate amount of shedding. Brushing his coat can be done weekly, or three times a week if you are the type of person who is greatly bothered by scattered dog hair. Make sure to clean his ears often since this area is common to accumulate dirt, moisture, and bacteria. Nail trimming should be accomplished every few weeks to keep his paws clean and healthy. Pitbull mixed with German Shepherd Health Problems Provided that he is given the proper care and is living a healthy lifestyle, this crossbreed can live up to 12 years. Every breed is susceptible to specific health issues, and so it is essential that as a dog owner, you are aware of these things so that you know how to take care well of your dog accordingly. It is worth remembering that the Pitbull crossed with German Shepherd may suffer from the following diseases. Hip Dysplasia: The German Shepherd breed is genetically susceptible to this condition, and the possibility of passing it to its offspring is highly possible. The disease is characterized by malformation of the hip joints which may cause lameness and ongoing pain. Atopic Dermatitis: It is an inflammatory skin condition which may be triggered by exposure to certain environmental factors such as grass sprayed with pesticides and mold spores. To avoid this condition from affecting your pup, make sure to keep your house clean. Also, keep an eye for increased use of pesticides at dog parks. Skin Irritation: The Pitbull German Shepherd is prone to skin irritation, which it inherits from the Pitbull side of the family. They have a more sensitive skin, which can react strongly to insect bites, such as fleas and ticks. Generally, feeding him cups of good quality dry food daily in combination with nutritious homemade diet would be sufficient. A well-balanced diet covering all the essential nutrients, including an appropriate protein and calorie intake, is vital in an active breed like the German Sheppit. On average, the German Shepherd Pitbull needs calories for males, while calories for females. Its core ingredients include ground brown and white rice, lamb meal and chicken meal. It has all-natural ingredients infused with additional minerals and vitamins. Its main components include chicken, real beef and salmon meat products. Blue Buffalo Wilderness: If your Pitbull German Shepherd has food allergies, this dog food is the right choice for you. It is a grain-free turkey and potato recipe dog food supplemented with antioxidant-rich kibble. This dog food is formulated to minimize food sensitivities while maximizing the nutritional value dogs receive. Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient: This dog food is formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs. If your pooch is still a munchkin, you should go through best puppy food brands. Senior, gray-coated dogs require different diets. Your pooch takes genes from two parents. This means you could also take into account buying the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. Pitbull Crossed with German Shepherd Exercise Requirements The Pitbull German Shepherd mix is an active and high-energy dog, so it might get destructive if he gets bored. This breed love to move around and therefore enjoys doing exercise activities. It is recommended to exercise him at least 90 minutes daily. Their exercise requirement is not just a guideline, but it is crucial that they are met. Without enough exercise, this breed may fall into a pattern of aggressive and destructive behaviors, such as excessive barking, unwanted chewing, and digging. Mental stimulation exercises should also be part of your routine to keep them from getting bored and further improve its social interactions. You can provide your pet with interactive dog toys. While it is true that they come from parent breeds with remarkable high intelligence, you should be warned that training them can be a bit overwhelming. Patience, attention, more time and positive reinforcement are the key components that owners should abide by in training this crossbreed. This is for your dog to learn the proper etiquette at a young age and avoid developing unwanted behaviors when it grows up. Remember to keep the pace of the training slow as your pup is still young and its body might still be fragile. After a year or two, however, you can increase the pace. Moreover, take note that an experienced trainer is better than a novice trainer. You need to be strong and authoritative. Otherwise, this dog will try to dominate you. Gentle yet firm treatment is the way to go with the German Sheppit puppy. Use Positive ReinforcementEven if this mixed breed has a tendency to become stubborn, avoid taking extreme measures. Using negative punishment-based training will not do any help, he might just end up not respecting you as a leader. Make it a regular routine to reward him whenever he does something right. Implement simple rules that they can follow and in return, give them praises and treats for obeying the rules. Training your German Sheppit consistently in a positive method will provide you with pet companions that are obedient and good-natured. Puppy socialization has been proven to reduce developing aggressive behaviors, anxiety, and fearfulness later on in their adulthood. You just have to introduce and desensitize your dog to different people and environments. You can try doing the following: Puppy classes Playing at dog-friendly parks Make him attend doggy daycares The above activities ensure that your dog interacts with a range of fellow dogs and people as well on different environments, which may include on and off leash interactions. Include Mental Exercises on Their TrainingThe Pitbull mixed with German Shepherd is an intelligent dog, and they need stimulating mental activities to avoid developing aggressive and other unwanted behaviors. Mental stimulation activities can be in the form of games or puzzles. German Shepherd Pitbull and Families With consistent proper training, exercise and correct socialization, the German Shepherd Pitbulls are incredibly loyal, friendly and affectionate towards family members, making them an excellent choice as a family pet. This crossbreed can even be the perfect breed for children, especially that its parent breed Pitbull was previously known as a nanny dog. Young kids, especially those under 8 years old, may play rough with dogs and they may tire them out or provoke them unknowingly causing the dogs to react in aggressive behaviors. Children should be taught to love and respect all members of the family including your four-legged family companions. This dog loves to spend time with you and other family members. So give love lots of affection to your German Shepherd crossed with Pitbull and expect an unconditional love in return. They are still prized working dogs on ranches or farms, but can fit well into active families with older kids. German Shepherd Pitbull mix puppies need lots of socialization, training and exercise. They require regular grooming despite their short coat, and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone. However, when you give them everything they need, this mix can be an amazing companion for experience dog owners and working dog trainers too. A member of the herding group, the German Shepherd was developed with the hopes of creating the perfect herding and service dog. Because of the cold and wet European climate, the German Shepherd had to be very hardy to handle long days in often brutal conditions. At that time, it became popular with military, police, and service work. Early Bulldogs and Terriers were crossed to create an athletic, bold dog primarily used for hunting. This is a practice where the dog would grasp a bull, bear, or other large animal around the head. Today, Pitbulls are still very agile dogs that make excellent contestants in agility, weight pulling, and tracking tests. This mix will be tall with a medium build and a coat that will range in length from short to long, depending on their parents. They will have a relatively long muzzle, dark eyes, a long tail and pointed ears. The German Shepherd Pitbull mix is probably going to be a large dog. You can expect a German Shepherd-Pitbull hybrid to grow up to 17—24 inches tall at the shoulder. If a hybrid puppy takes after its German Shepherd parent, then they may mature to between 80 and 90 pounds. When they more closely resemble their Pitbull parent, then they may reach anywhere from 30 to 60 pounds. Additionally, hybrids may look more like one parent than the other, or they may appear to be a lovely mix of both parents. Both breeds are commonly associated with territorial aggression and biting, both of humans and other dogs. Of course, with mixed breeds, you cannot say with much certainty how much the offspring of two purebred dogs will take after their parents. This goes for looks, health, and temperament. German Shepherd Pitbull mix puppies are no different. The Pitbull was first bred to fearlessly attack large animals and later to work, hunt and protect. This means that they are strong and agile enough to chase after such animals as cattle and hogs. Also, if needed, they can grasp and hold a moving animal with their powerful jaws. They can also be territorial. Furthermore, fewer Pitbulls in the study had attempted to bite their owner or a strange human than those who had attempted to or had attacked a strange dog in the past. Socialization As we mentioned earlier, proper training and socialization with other dogs and humans from an early age can help to prevent a puppy with German Shepherd lineage from developing aggressive behavior later in life. This is especially important if your dog has hypothyroidism in its genes. Additionally, both Pitbulls and German Shepherds are working breeds that are high energy. German Shepherd and Pitbull Health Your puppy has the potential to inherit the following conditions from one or both of their parents: Allergies — Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and dust cause itchy skin on the feet, belly, folds of skin, and ears. Hip dysplasia Patellar luxation — When the knee cap pops out of place while the dog is in motion. Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis — Progressive nerve damage that results in weakness of the legs and sometimes blindness. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA — An inherited disorder in which deterioration of the retina leads to eventual blindness. Bladder stones —Pitbulls can inherit Hyperuricosuria. The urine is too acidic, which causes precipitation of solid masses called bladder stones or kidney stones depending on where they form. Lifespan The average life expectancy of a German Shepherd is about 11 years. Similarly, the Pitbull typically lives between 11 and 13 years. This means that you can expect a German Shepherd Pitbull mix to live to be approximately 11 or 12 years of age. A Shepherd Pitt may mature to be a large dog with lots of energy. In addition to the energy outlet, exercise is also important for this hybrid due to the high probability of it developing hip dysplasia. As a family dog, this hybrid may not be ideal for homes with young children or other dogs. Make sure that you meet both parents. They should be relaxed and confident around strangers, if not overly friendly. Make sure the breeder also shows you evidence of clear health test certificates.

We spoke with Nico from Irvine, CA to find out more about this rare breed. His pups name is Olive. She loves to be near me and relax all day but is also a great companion for hiking and running. She is very loving and gets along with other dogs really well when playing. Some things to watch out for are: High energy Potential to be loud and snappy Stubborn streaks This breed is not easy to come by. How Are Golden-Chis Bred? One of the biggest things to know about golden retriever chihuahua mix pups is that they cannot be naturally bred; breeders of this unique mix rely on artificial insemination. In this case, the mother will always be the golden retriever, who receives the sperm from a chihuahua father. Because of the difficulty breeding this combination it will be hard to locate a breeder. Before you adopt or buy any pup, be sure to do your research and choose a reputable breeder! The best ones often have waiting lists, and they carefully breed their pooches to be the best and the healthiest. To get the most of your new golden retriever mixed with a chihuahua, look out for the signs of a good breeder before you buy. One of the best ways to learn more about a breed is to ask owners, and there are plenty of awesome golden chi parents all over the world! Many of them happen to run social media accounts for their dogs, which you can follow and check out to learn more about the breed! Here are some of our favorite golden retriever chihuahua mix pups on the internet: 1. Hermes As a Los Angeles resident, Hermes knows when to be wild and when to play it cool. This awesome pup loves to explore just as much as he loves to kick back and snuggle! Image Source: Hermesthegoldenchi 2. This little pup is the perfect example of a long-haired golden chi, and he loves to play. Image Source: loganpaws 3. This gorgeous pup is known for her silly antics, and she loves to explore with her mom! Image Source oliveacrosstheuniverse 4. Oskar Originally from Tenerife, this chihuahua-faced pup now enjoys a luxurious life in Germany. What is the best food for your dog? The three foods that are super healthy and that almost every dog loves, even the pickiest dogs, are: 1. There are a number of fresh frozen dog foods available on the market and I tested them all. You can see the fresh frozen food test here. Golden-Chi Origins The Chihuahua Chihuahuas are among the tiniest of breeds, but what they lack in size, they more than make up for in temperament. This loyal companion is zealous, fearless and always down for an adventure. Even though these dogs can be clingy and bark at seemingly random intervals, these pups consistently strive to please their owners, The Golden Retriever The Golden Retriever is by far one of the most delightful breeds you will ever come across! They are loyal, friendly and easy to train, making them an ideal addition to any family. With a striking golden coat and an eager-to-please attitude, there's no mistaking this breed for any other. As such, they make popular choices in many households. Not only do they get along easily with people, but also with other dogs, cats and children too. Highly intelligent and incredibly sociable, these dogs require regular exercise and human interaction. The Golden Chi The Golden Retriever Chihuahua mix is one of the strangest combinations of two completely different breeds out there. Even though the origin of this mix remains a mystery, both purebreds that the pup came from are fairly popular and it's easy to understand why! Because of their significant size difference, Chihuahuas and Golden Retrievers can't mate naturally - instead, it requires highly controlled artificial insemination for a successful result. The Golden Chi is not recognized by the A. Golden Chi Appearance Golden Retrievers and Chihuahuas offer a stark contrast in size, weight, and appearance, with the former being one of the largest and the latter being one of the smallest pedigree dogs. While Golden Retrievers can weigh up to 75 pounds and reach heights of 25 inches when fully grown, Chihuahuas usually stay within a pound range and max out at about 9 inches tall. These differences place them on opposite ends of the canine spectrum, yet both are incredibly affectionate animals who thrive when given human interaction and attention. A Golden Retriever Chihuahua mix is any dog owner's dream come true. The pup has a unique look, since it combines two different breeds that have vastly different characteristics. This delightful breed may have a range of physical characteristics due to the two distinct parent breeds combining DNA, from short and long coats to a wide range of colors and shades, but their personalities can be almost as unpredictable. Owning one of these animals could end up being a very unique experience that nobody else in your area has had yet! A post shared by Brittany Douglas brittany. Golden Retriever Chihuahua mixes have inherited the loyal nature of both parent breeds, so they tend to develop close friendships with other animals quickly and easily. However, some caution should be taken when introducing them to a new pet, as smaller animals may view the Golden Chi as too energetic or intimidating. With proper socialization though, these loving pups will be fast friends with any animal you bring into your home. As double-coated breeds, both Chihuahuas and Golden Retrievers require regular maintenance to keep their coats healthy and looking their best. Chihuahua Golden Retriever mixes are not hypoallergenic. Golden Chi Health Golden Retriever Chihuahua mixes typically have a lifespan of between 10 and 13 years. While Chihuahua Golden Retriever mixes may inherit some of their physical and behavioral traits from their parent breeds, they also inherit the same health issues. Dental issues Unfortunately, Golden Chis often suffer from dental issues due to genetics and their somewhat unfavorable size ratio. The larger teeth may not fit properly in the tiny mouth, making the teeth more susceptible to overcrowding and misalignment. While veterinary care at an early age is essential for providing preventative treatments for certain dental problems, owners should also be mindful of daily teeth-brushing instructions and feeding routine in order to ensure that their pup remains healthy. Osteosarcoma Golden Retriever Chihuahuas mixes are known to suffer from an aggressive form of bone cancer called osteosarcoma that has the potential to spread to other organs and drastically reduce life expectancy. It's an incredibly heartbreaking illness for any pet, and can occur at any age so it's important for owners of Golden Chis to be aware of the risk. However, with regular trips to the vet and proactive care, it's possible to identify and manage any issues early on. Hip dysplasia The condition is actually quite common in larger dogs, but also affects small breeds too, like the Chihuahua Golden Retriever mix. It occurs when the hip joint is malformed, making it difficult for them to move around or even walk. Unfortunately, there's no single thing that can prevent it from happening, so all owners must keep an eye out for symptoms such as stiffness after exercise or difficulty getting up to their feet. Grooming As a unique combination of two beloved breeds, the Golden Retriever Chihuahua mix comes with some very special grooming needs. To keep your Golden Chi's coat looking shiny, it is important to brush them at least once a week, including their legs and other areas that might be harder to reach. Bathing should also occur no more than once a month using a shampoo specifically designed for dogs. Additionally, regular checks for fleas and ticks are necessary as these pesky parasites love to set up shop on this double-coated pup! Training While the Golden Retriever Chihuahua mix provides loyalty and affection, unfortunately, it also includes some unwanted tendencies from the latter breed, such as being difficult to train. Despite their intelligence, proving stubbornness in this area tends to be a common problem. And while there are ways to work around this, it will take patience and consistency during training sessions for owners to get the desired results from their Golden-Chi. A post shared by Toffee Khawaja toffeethegoldenchi Feeding Feeding the perfect amount of food to a Golden Chihuahua mix can feel like a balancing act. Variables such as age, size and activity can throw off the ideal diet for your pup. Plus, even for purebred dogs, there is no cut-and-dry formula. However, you can achieve a good baseline with cups of dry food per day. Exercise Exercise is important for any pet, even more so for certain breeds. If you have a Golden Retriever Chihuahua mix, you'll need to determine which parent breed they most closely resemble when it comes to exercise requirements. Purebred Goldens usually need at least two hours of exercise per day while the tiny yet feisty Chihuahua requires just minutes. Male vs Female Golden Chi The differences between male and female Golden Retriever Chihuahua mixes may include the male being more aggressive and dominant. Also, depending on their parents' temperaments, female mixes can end up being aloof or overly clingy, while males tend to bond better with their humans. On the other hand, females can exhibit stronger loyalty and protectiveness for their humans than males. Well, a designer dog, quite simply, is the result when you breed two purebred dogs to create a new breed. What do you get when you mix a dog with one of the friendliest dispositions and is considered brilliant, loyal, and playful the Golden Retriever with a dog that is tiny in size but enormous in personality, sassy, and sometimes very stubborn the Chihuahua? A Golden Chi is a unique kind of dog! Well, sit back, and we will dive into their history, temperament, size, appearance, and more. Be prepared to fall in love with this relatively new designer dog, the Golden Chi. Therefore, it must be done through in vitro fertilization IVF or artificial insemination to create this dog breed. Since breeding is not typical, it can be difficult to find breeders. Do your research and make sure you find a reputable dog breeder — one that does it for the love of the animal and not the love of the dollar! Golden Retriever Chihuahua Mix Temperament Having had several dogs throughout my life, I firmly believe your pet will take on the personality of its owner. My father got me a long-haired female Chihuahua when I was 18 months old. Now, Chihuahuas were not customarily considered good pets for children, particularly toddlers. However, this puppy was the most loving gentlest dog in the world. She was my watchdog, my playmate, and most of all, my best friend. We were inseparable, and she never growled or snapped at me. Even when I accidentally broke her leg when I was holding her and running with her in the snow. However, if my mother yelled at me, this dog would growl at my mother for disciplining me. A Golden Retriever is happiest when they are with people. The Golden Chi is sure to be loving and loyal as the Golden mother and sassy and bold as the Chihuahua father. Sometimes you will be butting heads with your adorable pup if it tries to be the alpha dog! It is essential right from the start to let this dog know you are the alpha dog, as it is with any breed of dog. Dogs, by nature, are pack animals, and they all want to be the leader, but we all know the dog cannot be the leader in the household! Chihuahuas can be territorial if left to their defenses and, like a toddler, might not like to share. So it can be with the Golden Chi, and you must make sure it knows the rules right from day one. If you are planning on getting a Golden Chi as a puppy and a family dog, especially if it will be around younger children, make sure you start training from the first day. Remember, you are the alpha dog, as well as the rest of the family. Your dog should learn to take commands from all family members. Golden Chis can be very confident and playful, and you and your family can relish in and be entertained by all their fun-living and playful antics. The Golden Retriever female, on average, is 55 to 65 pounds and 21—22 inches tall, while the average male Chihuahua is 2 to 6 pounds and about 9 inches tall. You can expect an average Golden Chi to be between 15 to 30 pounds and inches tall — a lovely small to a medium-sized dog! A Golden Chi dog will reach its full adult size, usually around a year to a year and a half old. The coloring of the Golden Chihuahua mix is usually tan or golden. However, they can also be red, chocolate, white, black, fawn, or cream. All thanks to genetics. They almost always have thick fur like the Golden Retriever. And if the father was a long-haired Chihuahua, you can expect your Golden Chi to have an even denser, thicker coat of fur! Since Golden Chis are considered small to medium breed depending on their height , they are generally regarded as suitable apartment or condo dogs. However, as with most puppies, you must ensure they get plenty of outdoor exercise. The last thing you want is a bored dog, which usually leads to destructive behavior. So please make sure your dog gets adequate exercise and training. Golden Retrievers shed A LOT emitting many fibers of joy and love in addition to hair and require regular brushing and grooming. Golden chis require less brushing. While they do shed, you can get away with weekly hair brushings. It may be worthwhile to invest in a robot vacuum cleaner to keep up with any fur that they leave inside. Dental care of the Golden Chi is a different story, however. Because of the shape of their mouth, their teeth can be overcrowded, leading to plaque buildup. It is recommended to brush their teeth at least every other day. Now, remember, this breed is part Chihuahua. And Chihuahuas are known for their stubbornness. It is best to start brushing and touching their mouth at an early age. It is in your best interest to start early and often with brushing their teeth! Another challenging but necessary grooming item is nail care. Most dogs do not like getting their nails trimmed. Again, it is vital to start this at a young age, do it regularly, and make it a game. This is easier if it is done with two people — one to do the trimming and the other to do the distracting and entertaining. At a minimum, it should be done every three to four weeks. But you can tell if it needs to be done more often. When their nails feel like actual nails being hammered into your body parts, that is a sure sign that nail trimming needs to be done! It is pretty safe to say your Golden Chi will require regular daily exercise. Remember I mentioned before you do not want to have a bored dog. A bored dog is a destructive dog. A well-exercised dog leads to a happy dog and delighted dog parents! Goldens require at least two hours of daily exercise, and Chihuahuas need about 30 minutes. On average, expect your Golden Chi to require between 30 and minutes of daily exercise. A puppy chi does better with several minute exercise periods, while a mature adult chi would do fine with two minute exercise intervals. Remember, a tired dog from exercise and play is not a bored dog, and an exercised dog is a happy dog with happy parents! And speaking of exercising your Golden Chi, it is essential to socialize your Golden Chi as it is with any dog. Just remember, as I said in the beginning, I am a firm believer that a pet takes on the characteristics of its owner. So, if you are very social, your dog probably will be as well, no matter the breed. But keep in mind socialization is crucial for any dog. Introduce them to strangers, young and old, at an early age. Ensure your dog knows not to snap or snarl at someone they do not know. It is sometimes beneficial to introduce your dog to doggy daycare to learn to interact with other people and dogs. If your Golden Chi is in a household with young children, never leave a child with the dog unattended, no matter the breed. A child must learn to respect the dog, and the dog will appreciate the child. If you plan to have children sometime in the future, you should schedule times when your chi puppy can get used to youngsters. Several things must be taken into consideration. For example, is your Golden Chi closer to the lower end of nine inches tall or the higher end of twenty-four inches tall? Younger chis need more food than older ones, and more active dogs need more food than less active ones. Do they get a lot of treats throughout the day? More treats equal less food. So be careful with how many treats they get. On average, you should give your pup between one and two cups of nutritious kibble daily, ideally divided up between two feedings. As they mature, they may prefer only to eat once a day, but in the puppy stage, it is essential to eat twice a day. Treats are essential during training, but treats should happen less often once trained. If ever in doubt whether you are feeding your dog enough, consult your vet. Most vets look for a belly that is smaller than their chest, and you may be feeding them too much if they start to lose that clear indentation. Responsible pet owners take their dogs to the vet regularly, and your vet will let you know if your Golden Chi is at a good weight. Is a Golden Retriever Chihuahua Mix right for you? There is not much difference between a female or a male chi, and no two chis are ever precisely the same, but they share some of the best and most challenging characteristics of both breeds. Some of their best characteristics are that they are intelligent yet sassy, trainable, generally have good health, low to moderate maintenance, and make good family dogs. Some of the challenges you might encounter are that they are not easy to come by; therefore, they tend to be quite expensive. They can be high-energy dogs, so they must get regular exercise. They can be stubborn, yappy, and can be snappy if not put in their place at an early age, so they must be trained right from the beginning. The Golden Chi is a designer dog breed you did not know you wanted. Once you look into their eyes, they become irresistible. So, buyer, beware. Do your research, and make sure this breed is the breed for you. They are captivating, lovable, loyal, and deserve the best. If you cannot accommodate their needs, they can become a giant, costly mistake, and they do not deserve this. However, if this breed is an excellent match for you, they can be one of the best pets you will ever have in your life! Golden Chis can be very loyal companions. Love and train them well, and you will reap the rewards of this unique breed! Other Golden Retrievers Mixes. Golden Retrievers and Chihuahuas cannot breed naturally. The process of creating the Golden Chi hybrid breed is complex and expensive, so while this breed is still relatively uncommon and not highly sought after, puppies are expensive. Choosing this type of breed means that you will have to do a lot of research, not only to ensure that the breed matches your lifestyle and requirements but to find a reputable breeder. The cost of the puppies means that you may find some disreputable breeders passing other crossbreeds off as Golden Chi in a bid to make more money from their breeding. Because this breed is not purebred, they are not recognized by kennel clubs, nor are they recognized by hybrid kennel clubs. You will have to call breeders to locate one that is dealing with this breed. The rarity of the breed means that you are unlikely to find them in rescues or local shelters. If you do, ensure that you get as much history as possible, and meet the dog before you take him home with you. If you already have dogs, ensure that you introduce your existing dog to the Golden Chi before you take him home. They have an excellent sense of smell and they are keen tracking dogs. They love to swim, have plenty of energy, are intelligent and they like to please their humans. This combination means that they can be trained as service dogs, guide dogs, therapy dogs, and search and rescue dogs. Although the Golden Chi is unlikely to follow the same path, primarily because of the difficulty in breeding the line, they do retain many of these beneficial properties. Your puppy could be a keen swimmer with lots of energy and a desire to please. A purebred typically weighs around 5 lbs and is 8 inches tall. Crossing it with the Golden Retriever means that the resulting hybrid will be around three times the size, weighing a minimum of 15 lbs and standing at least 20 inches off the ground. Instead, a veterinarian has to artificially inseminate a female Golden Retriever with the sperm of a male Chihuahua. The size of the resulting breed means that it cannot be inseminated into a female chihuahua. The parents of the Golden Chi. Left: Chihuahua, Right: Golden Retriever. Expect the breed to be approximately three times the size of the Chihuahua and half the size of the Golden Retriever. Are These Dogs Good for Families? The Golden Retriever is famed for being one of the best family companion pets. He is known to love people of all ages, will love to spend time playing with older children especially, and he will enjoy any time you give him outdoors. The Chihuahua, on the other hand, is not as well as suited to life with children. He can be a bit grumpy, and if your son or daughter does not yet know how to behave around dogs, it can lead to aggression from the Chihuahua breed. It is likely that your Golden Chi will fall somewhere between these two extremes. Expect it to take time for your puppy to befriend all family members and when they do, you can bet they will become an integral and loving member of the family. Similarly, whether your Golden Chi gets along with other dogs, cats, and other furry family members, will depend on whether it takes after the Retriever or the Chihuahua. He offers the perfect compromise between these two breeds, but he may not be suitable for all families and owners. Consider the following factors before welcoming one of this breed into your home. The exact amount you feed will depend on the age and size of your dog. Active dogs also require more food. You should measure the food and provide it over two meals during the day. If you use food or treats as a training aid, take this into account when calculating how much food to give. Exercise Expect to give your hybrid at least 45 minutes of exercise a day. Walks should be sufficient, although the breed may benefit from dog agility and other canine sports classes. Training Golden Chis usually adopt the loving nature of the Retriever but the stubbornness of the Chihuahua. Unfortunately, this stubbornness does tend to prevail when it comes to training. So, while you will have an intelligent hybrid breed on your hands, they can prove difficult to train. You should attend training classes because these give you the tools to further train your dog, and they also teach some of the basic commands. Early training is especially important if you want your Golden Chi to live with children. Socialization should also be considered important, otherwise, your Golden Chi could adopt the standoff nature of the Chihuahua parent breed. They have a lot of hair, and it does tend to shed profusely. It will shed but this will be less than you would experience from a purebred Retriever. Other than a weekly brush, you should only have to deal with regular maintenance. You will also have to brush their teeth three times a week. This is especially important because poor dental hygiene is an issue with smaller breeds like the Chihuahua. Health and Conditions. Get to know the Golden Retriever When we think of the quintessential family dog, the Golden Retriever comes to mind. But did you know that these pups started out as working dogs? Adorable pure Golden Retriever dog Goldens were bred as waterfowl retrievers in 19th century Scotland. Their ability to serve alongside hunters was matched only by their mild, obedient disposition. Who knew this spunky breed had such a celebrated past? What do Golden Chis look like? Combining an itsy-bitsy, toy-sized pooch with a larger-than-life retriever is bound to come with its fair share of surprises. If your Golden Chi Retriever comes from an apple head Chihuahua, they may have a rounded skull with a pointed snout. Deer head Chihuahuas , on the other hand, could give your Golden Chi pup a longer muzzle and softer features. They often have floppy, fuzzy, Instagram-worthy ears that are usually light and dark golden. They almost always have thick fur, thanks to the Golden Retriever. But their coats will be even longer and denser if they come from a long-haired Chihuahua. Technically, Golden Chis can be golden, red, black, white, fawn, cream, or chocolate. How big is a full-grown Golden Retriever Chihuahua mix? Most Chihuahua Golden Retrievers will reach a middle-of-the-road weight by adulthood, around 15 to 30 pounds 7 to 14 kg. Goldens have a height of 21 to 24 inches 53 to 61 cm , while Chihuahuas are only 6 to 9 inches 15 to 23 cm at the shoulder. Their hybrid offspring will be somewhere within the range of 9 to 24 inches 23 to 61 cm. As a small-sized breed, the Golden Retriever Chihuahua mix will feel perfectly at home in apartments, but be sure to give them plenty of on-leash outdoor exercise. Are Golden Chihuahua mixes good or dangerous dogs? You want to get ahead of any potential problem behaviors. Chihuahuas, for example, can be territorial. Make sure your Golden Chi puppy learns how to share and respect your leadership from a young age. All is not lost, however. Speaking of homes with tiny tots, stay close by when the kiddos interact with your Golden Chihuahua. Your odds of keeping the peace go up exponentially is when you socialize your Golden Chi early and often. Take them to puppy kindergarten and doggie daycare to reinforce good manners and proper boundaries. You also want to observe your puppy and their parents before buying. Even at just a few weeks old, puppies can give you glimpses into their personalities. If you have kids or fur babies now or plan to in the future , look for a Golden Chihuahua that readily romps with its littermates. How often should you groom your Golden Chi? Golden Chihuahuas are nowhere near as high-maintenance as purebred Golden Retrievers. Between their smaller stature and shorter coats, Chihuahua Golden Retriever crosses can do without daily brushing. Although they shed all-year-round, expect heavier shedding when the seasons change. Brushing your Golden Chi once or twice a week should keep loose hair, mats, and tangles at bay. Keep an eye out for the telltale signs of irritation and infection: redness and an unpleasant odor. Dental hygiene is another non-negotiable. Golden Chis with narrow jaws are at greater risk of overcrowded teeth, contributing to plaque buildup and tooth decay. Your Golden Chi will likely stage a resistance whenever the grooming kit comes out. Over time, grooming will feel less and less scary for your pup. Be patient, and remember that the trials and triumphs of beautifying our canines are part of the experience! Exercise: how much do Golden Chis need? Purebred Goldens require at least 2 hours of exercise a day, while Chihuahuas only need about minutes. Your Golden Retriever Chihuahua mix will fall somewhere between those two extremes, depending on their energy level and physical stature. While your Golden Chi is still a puppy, pepper their day with brief walks and short play sessions at regular intervals. Once Fido reaches his mature size, you can ramp up the amount of time you exercise him but reduce the frequency. For example, you might switch minute walks around the block for a light minute jog at the dog park. You can go a little below or above this range if that suits your pup. They can help you find the caloric sweet spot for your particular pooch. Health: How long do Golden Chis live? Chihuahua Golden Retriever mixes have plenty of life ahead of them. The average lifespan for this hybrid is 11 to 15 years! Purebred Golden Retrievers are prone to both cancer and hip dysplasia. Dental issues are rampant among Chihuahuas and their hybrid relatives. Their small jaws leave them vulnerable to cavities, crowded teeth, and tooth loss. Many Golden Chis luck out and inherit only the healthiest genes from their parents. To be on the safe side, exclusively shop with breeders who can provide health certificates. You want a well-cared-for canine that comes from good stock. Where to buy a Golden Retriever Chihuahua mix puppy? The size disparity between its parents makes the breeding process cumbersome and costly. For this reason, this crossbreed is far more challenging to find than other designers Chihuahua or Golden Retriever mixes. Not every breeder wants to deal with the hassle and expense. And those who do expect to be fairly compensated. Be wary of any kennels or breeders with dirt-cheap puppies. The last thing you want is to commit your time, money, and heart to a pup from a bad breeder. Be on high alert with any sellers that seem reluctant to let you visit their facility. Trustworthy breeders should have no problem with an in-person visit. Many will go so far as to require a face-to-face meeting with potential customers. Vet-certified proof of genetic testing is another must-have. Believe it or not, a lot of mixed breeds end up in shelters for different reasons. Try to check with rescues near you once a week or so. Long hair, brown nose, flowing long-haired tail. Are you looking for a way to treat your furry friend? Sign up for our newsletter for a chance to win a free month of Barkbox! Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to get emails from myk9life. We'll respect your privacy and you can unsubscribe any time. However, we can glean that it was probably the result of a recent crossbreed, likely sometime between the s and early s, when crossbreeding peaked in popularity in the United States. Major Marjoribanks was searching for a dog as a companion and a guardian of his luxury mansion. Thus, the first Golden Retriever litter was born. Golden Retrievers are fantastic dogs for just about anyone! Their friendly and loving nature makes them great family pets, though they may have a little too much energy for an elderly owner. The Golden Retriever was first bred in England in , as a result of a cross between a golden-colored street dog named Nous and a Tweed Water Spaniel named Belle. The popularity of crossbreeding in the United States began in the s, peaking in the s and early s. Though the exact date when Golden Retrievers began to be crossbred is unknown, we can safely assume that people began to cross Goldens with other dogs during this time. The Chihuahua begins in Mexico and is a descendant of the ancient Techichi dog, a mute dog that was kept as a pet by the Toltec people, an Aztec tribe. Despite their impish size, the Chihuahua remains a moderately popular pet among Americans, with the American Kennel Club putting their popularity ranking at 37th. Given their size, the Chihuahua is a great pet for elderly people, without the strength to control a larger animal. They were a result of crossbreeding of unknown origin in Mexico, beginning as descendants of the Techihi dog, an ancient breed belonging to the Toltec Peoples, an Aztec tribe. The crossbreeding history of the Chihuahua is almost unknown, though, given their small size, not many people tend to cross-breed them, as there are numerous physiological boundaries to doing so. Therefore, their cross-breeding history is somewhat spotty. Making sure that you get a temperament match for you, your family and your potential adoptee will only make things easier once the dog arrives. The Golden Chi adopts some of the temperaments of both of its parent breeds. Expect an active and sometimes hyperactive dog with a small frame but feisty nature. Though it is loving and loyal to its owners, it may be somewhat standoffish with strangers. Despite their stubborn nature, the Golden Chi should be relatively easy to train, with some time and patience. The Golden Chi is a little heavier than your average Chi, weighing between 15 and 30 pounds. Given that it has Golden Retriever genes and will likely be long-haired, you can expect a light to moderate amount of shedding throughout the year. A weekly brush will help mitigate this significantly. Despite being small, they are rather energetic dogs, requiring roughly 45 minutes of exercise per day. The average life of a Golden Chi is roughly years.

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. Are you at home to devote time and training to their growth? What open space environment is your home? German Shepherds are on the no dog list in apartment buildings. Do you have a family with other pets? Also, a good breeder will ask you why do you want this particular breed? The breeder should be concerned that a German Shepherd puppy is being placed within the best living environment. Here are some insights to help you bring home the perfect German Shepherd puppy: Types of German Shepherd Puppies Pure-bred German Shepherd puppies are available in a variety of colors and built. The typical description is light brown and black. Black: Rare and beautiful. Their coloring is either all black or a deep dark bluish hair tint. Panda: their coloring consists of black, white, and tan. This is their natural coloring, not contributed to being a mixed breed. Sable: A unique coloring of this breed consists of light black, grey, tan, or gold. As puppies, the Sable German Shepherd puppies are fully tan. As they age, fur begins to develop stronger natural colors. White: No, this German Shepherd breed is not due to albino coloring. Though rate, white is their natural coloring. This German Shepherd puppy will be smaller in size, whether male or female. The reason for this question is that German Shepherds are intelligent and engaging breeds. They can be trained to thrive in any situation and climate. Their ability to cope in any situation is amazing. German Shepherds make great companions, protective family pets, and they are hard workers. Knowing how to choose a German Shepherd puppy, you are wondering what things you should look for. In other words, you are looking to see if it has a good temperament. German Shephard puppies demand and exhibit affection rather aggressively. Parental Traits If you are choosing a puppy from a kennel or a breeder, inquire about its parental background. You want to know if both parents were healthy and friendly. Carefully Examine the Puppy You want to look again for a puppy that is active and healthy. To choose the best German Shepherd puppy, you must become an amateur canine detective and examine the puppy closely. Here are things to look for: A German Shepherd puppy should not look thin. Instead, they should look full-bodied. Their eyes should appear bright and clear. Also, you must invade their personal space by examining their butt area to make sure it is clean. Their nose should be clean and not runny. Their teeth and gums look healthy. Their hair coat should not have bald spots and should not be matted. Your German Shepherd puppy should be free from odors. Pick a puppy that has a good gait, and their tail is up and actively wagging. All puppies need their mothers when they are very young. A German Shepherd puppy can be purchased when they are between the ages of eight and twelve weeks old. If you decide on an older puppy, just make sure that it has retained its socialization skills with both people and other animals. Make sure that the puppy has gotten all its vaccinations and deworming medication. However, within 48 hours of purchase, take your German Shepherd puppy to your vet for a complete exam. The Kennel or Breeder Environment Whether you are purchasing your German Shepherd puppy from a kennel or a private seller, look at the conditions of both. How does the kennel look to you? Both kennels and private breeder yards should be clean, and all puppies should have clean water. Please do not buy a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder where the conditions are unclean. How Instinctive Are You? Many potential dog-owners state that they knew that this was the one when they first saw their puppy. We all have instincts; therefore, you will know what the right buying environment is when you look at the puppies. If you get a feeling that something is not right, leave and find a different breeder. When you purchase your German Shepherd puppy and bring that bundle of joy home, you want to feel confident that you have made the best decision. After all, the relationship with your German Shepherd puppy can last easily for up to thirteen years. Male vs. Female German Shepherd There are many people who only choose a German Shepherd puppy because of their gender or appearance. What is most important in purchasing any puppy is their physical and mental stability. Gender and looks should never be a deciding factor when choosing a dog that will live in your family for the next 12 years or more. Please perform thorough breeder research so that you can choose the right German Shepherd puppy that will fit into your living lifestyle for years to come. Do you want to select a female puppy for future breeding? If not, both your male and female German Shepherd puppy should be spayed and neutered. Female German Shepherds are found to have a sweeter temperament than their male counterparts. Male German Shepherds are more territorial. They also are a little more stubborn and proud. Male German Shepherds are generally larger than their female counterparts. The male can grow to a height range of up to 26 inches. Meanwhile, the female can grow to a height of up to 24 inches tall. Their weight will range from a full-bodied 75 to 95 pounds. When you are trying to decide whether to purchase a male vs. They make excellent watchdogs. Socialize Therefore, if you are going to be around other individuals each day, your German Shepherd puppy must be trained to accept people outside their family unit. Introduce your German Shepherd puppy to strangers so that they will feel comfortable in front of people. By introducing them to strangers, will help them stay calm. They do not like to be left alone for too long. Because they were originally bred for herding, German Shepherds have high energy and thus require physical and mental stimulation. Make sure you have the time and patience to own a German Shepherd puppy. In patiently taking time with their active habits, it will work out to your benefit. They become loyal and loving breeds, especially when raised in a family setting. Remember the TV show Dog Whisperer? The host always referred to a dog requiring a pack leader. German Shepherds must learn that you are the pack leader. If not, they will take the dominant lead, and this is not good. They must be trained and actively exercised to be happy. German Shepherds love to explore and investigate everything. If you live in an area where there are porcupines, lookout. Young German Shepherd puppies will probably come home with quills all over their body. Well, you would be wrong. A German Shepherd puppy will want to correct this wrong and approach another porcupine! Grooming a German Shepherd puppy is simple and easy. Yes, they do shed year-round, so brush them occasionally. But mostly keep their nails trimmed, their teeth and ears cleaned. Dog breeders believe that to help your new German Shepherd puppy adjust from a litter to your new home, they should be crate trained. They need to feel safe and comfortable. Crate training is a learning experience for a German Shepherd puppy, but it eventually helps them get used to a family who perhaps must go off to work every day. Further Reading. 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.

They are located in the St. Petersburg, Tampa Bay and St. Pete Beach areas of Florida. To learn more you can visit their website here or send them an email at tbalusa gmail. They have been in business since .They breed allergy and asthma friendly mini, medium and standard size Australian Labradoodle puppies. All of their breeding dogs are health tested according to the standard of the Worldwide Australian Labradoodle Association. The kennel was founded by Peggy, who opened her business because of her love for dogs and desire for safer breeding practices. They socialize and teach. And, they provide a lot of interaction between their puppies. Individualized attention to their litters. They start training early and send them home vaccinated. They are located in Tampa Bay and Central Florida. To learn more about Seaspray and their upcoming litters, visit their website here. Lakewood Labradoodles Lakewood is a breeder of allergy friendly australian labradoodles. Located in Winter Haven, they raise their puppies inside their home as members of their family. Before you can take them home, Lakewood helps to begin the training process by laying a foundation for a well trained pet. For more information on their upcoming litters, visit their website here. They specialized in miniature to medium sized Australian Labradoodle puppies. I do not work outside of the home and I am fully involved in their upbringing, early development and training. They test for genetic diseases such as hip dysplasia, PRA and have eye exams annually. Before you bring your puppy home, they will be vaccinated, given a microchip, dewormed and given a well-puppy exam at 8 weeks. Plus, their litters are evaluated by a behaviorist to ensure good behavior before you bring your new dog home. To learn more about their upcoming litters and to view their dogs, visit their website here. They genetically and radio graphically test all their dogs for genetic disease and any health issues. Their puppies come with a 2 year health guarantee. The communication you provided during the process was spot on. With an excited family, it was great seeing the updates on the puppy and the pictures. Beau is beautiful and loved. He has a personality all his own, different than the Labs we owned. My wife Kelly got diagnosed with breast cancer not long after we got Beau and he has been a great pal for her. He loves her and she loves him. They breed their dogs to the highest of standards and each dog is registered and health tested to the regulations of the ALCA. Additionally, they have all of their breeding dogs DNA profiles so you know that you are getting an Authentic Multigenerational Australian Labradoodle. Before you bring your puppy home, they use neurological stimulation and activities to promote well behaved and confident pets. We want to raise our Australian Labradoodle puppies to have the best chance to grow into confident, stable and able to handle the stresses and challenges of a modern lifestyle. Fursure Helps Pet Parents Find The Best Pet Insurance Policy With the cost of veterinary bills rising each year, you could easily find yourself paying thousands out of pocket if an accident or illness were to occur. Let our team at Fursure help you get started on finding the best pet insurance policy for your furry friend. You pet will thank you! To get your pet protected and covered in just a few minutes , buy a pet insurance policy today! Join the Pack No spam. Just the very best in show products, expert pet parenting advice, and more.Read about our privacy policy. Thank you! Your submission has been received! Something went wrong while submitting the form. Introducing pet insurance that pays your vet directly. We let you keep your cash on hand, so you can focus on giving your pet the best care possible. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Deer Creek Comfort Dogs Shaping future companions for families and those in need of comfort Our family has been raising puppies for over 20 years. Our children have always had a passion for dogs which began our journey and now our grandchildren enjoy growing up with our wonderful dogs by their side. Deer Creek provides emotional support dogs, therapy dogs, service and therapy prospects, canine good citizen dogs as well as family pets. Deer Creek assists our families with puppy selection to help ensure the families get the puppy that will work well with their needs. Someone once said, "Acquiring a dog may be the only opportunity a human ever has to choose a relative" and we hope you choose one of ours. If you are interested in finding your new family member, fill out our puppy application and we will be thrilled to work with you. We recognize that our dogs have the capability of changing peoples' lives on a therapeutic level. Many of our Doodles have become therapy dogs at funeral homes, children's advocacy centers, hospitals and nursing homes, and others have found homes as anxiety, PTSD and emotional support dogs. Learn more about our nonprofit organization Deer Creek Paw Prints at www. Learn More Molly, Rhys, and Beau! Rainmaker Ranch Labradoodle Breeders Mission: To bring families an exceptional labradoodle, exceptional in labradoodle health, temperament and conformation. We have completed all the canine expert suggested labradoodle genetic health testing on all the generations of your labradoodle puppy to ensure a lifetime of health. Labradoodle Breeders since We believe that to breed a healthy labradoodle family companion, then the parents of your labradoodle puppy must also be healthy family companions! We are very careful in ensuring that the parents of your labradoodle puppy have the same temperament you would want in a family labradoodle dog. We are three expert labradoodle breeders working together, we only have one or two Australian labradoodle dogs each and one litter at a time so we can focus on the labradoodle puppies and the families who are adopting them, our labradoodle breeding dogs are loved family pets always living inside with us. We breed labradoodles in our home under the supervision of our veterinarian breeding specialist, we do not cage or kennel our dogs or puppies. Our Australian Labradoodle breeding dogs are members of our family, sleeping on our kids' beds at night, living indoors, and are loved constantly. Our belief is that being a labradoodle breeder is not a right, but a responsibility to the labradoodle breeding dogs and puppies. We only breed fleece coats, soft and loopy. We breed wide body, stocky, silly labradoodle dogs. We do not think labradoodles should look like any other breed; just a cool looking casual dog. We breed labradoodles for non shed and allergy friendly as much as a dog can be coats. Australian Labradoodle Breeders It takes years to develop a solid program of healthy, great temperament Labradoodle parent dogs who in turn bring along consistent, soft fleece coated, incredible Australian Labradoodle puppies. Come visit our home, be greeted by our incredible labradoodle dogs and talk with us about our labradoodle breeding program. This includes everything you need to know about our excellent Labradoodle Puppy breeder Program, from wait list, labradoodle health, labradoodle size, color, available labradoodle puppies, and labradoodle information to prepare you for your new Labradoodle puppy. We breed multigenerational Australian Labradoodles and American Labradoodles. Our goal is producing loving Australian Labradoodle puppies and American Labradoodle puppies to add to your family: with hypo allergenic qualities, beautiful wavy fleeces and curles and exceptionally smart. A smart dog is a happy dog, they are easily trained which adds to the enjoyment of your new family member. We have chocolate Australian labradoodle puppies for sale, chocolate parti Australian labradoodle puppies for sale merle Australian labradoodle puppies for sale and many other color Australian labradoodles for sale. Our puppies will be smart like their parents who know both hand signals as well as voice commands. Many of our past puppies have become service dogs for Epileptic Seizure Services, Hospice Services, and other Service related settings. Why do our dogs make such Great Service Dog Candidates, our wonderful Rocky passes his wonderful calm demeanor to all of his puppies. Also, many people love the look of our Merle labradoodles - They are absolutely stunning. We tend to have clients in the Chattanooga, Tennessee and Huntsville, Alabama areas that have a found interest in our Miniature Australian Labradoodles and clients in Florida are particularly interested in our Merle Australian Labradoodles. Of course clients in Dallas Texas and parts of Illinois have added our Standard size Australian Labradoodles to there households. Whether clients are on vacation or simply enjoying the local park, It's exciting when we hear reports from our owners that they ran into another Australian Labradoodle that turns out to be a Lord and Lady Labradoodle all over the country. And clients never cease to tell stories of how people they meet rant and rave over there Lord and Lady Australian Labradoodle. 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.

Yorkshire Terrier When considering the Breed Standards and Average Sizes for collar selection, it is important to note that these measurements are approximate and may vary slightly across individual dogs. The average neck sizes listed above can serve as a general guideline for choosing an appropriate collar size for your lab puppy. It is crucial to measure your lab puppy's neck size accurately before making a collar purchase. Using a soft measuring tape, wrap it around the base of your puppy's neck, ensuring a snug but comfortable fit. Keep in mind that puppies grow quickly, so it is advisable to choose a collar with room for growth. It is recommended to select a collar that is adjustable to accommodate your lab puppy's changing size. This way, you can easily modify the fit as they grow. Always ensure that the collar is comfortable for your puppy to wear, with enough space for two fingers to fit between the collar and their neck. By considering the Breed Standards and Average Sizes, measuring your lab puppy's neck accurately, and choosing an adjustable collar with room for growth, you can provide your puppy with a comfortable and properly fitting collar. Remember to monitor your lab puppy's collar as they continue to grow and adjust or replace it accordingly. Suggestions: When selecting a collar size for your lab puppy, it is a good idea to consult with a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer for additional guidance. They can provide personalized advice based on your puppy's breed, age, and growth rate. Remember to always prioritize your lab puppy's comfort and pet safety when choosing a collar. Measuring the Neck Size of the Lab Puppy Measuring the neck size of a lab puppy is a crucial step in selecting the appropriate collar size. Here is a step-by-step manual on accurately measuring the neck size: Ensure that the lab puppy is calm and comfortable before measuring their neck size. Utilize a soft measuring tape or a piece of string to measure around the puppy's neck at the base, where the collar will be positioned. Wrap the measuring tape or string snugly around the neck, ensuring it is not too tight or too loose. Take note of the measurement in inches or centimeters, maintaining consistency with the chosen unit of measurement. If you utilized a piece of string, measure its length with a ruler or measuring tape to determine the neck size. Double-check the measurement to ensure its accuracy. Remember that the collar should fit snugly but not be excessively tight or loose. It is important to allow two fingers to comfortably fit between the collar and the puppy's neck. By accurately measuring the neck size, you can select the appropriate collar size for your lab puppy, ensuring both comfort and a proper fit. Guidelines for Choosing the Right Size Collar for a Lab Puppy When it comes to finding the perfect collar for your adorable lab puppy, it's important to keep a few key guidelines in mind. In this section, we'll explore useful tips and tricks to ensure you choose the right size collar that will suit your furry friend's needs. From adjustable collars to selecting a collar with room for growth and ensuring optimal comfort and fit, we've got you covered. Get ready to make your lab puppy the most stylish and comfortable pup in town! Adjustable Collars Adjustable collars are a convenient option when choosing a collar for your lab puppy. They offer flexibility and allow for easy adjustments as your puppy grows. Perfect fit: Adjustable collars provide a perfect fit for your lab puppy's neck comfortably. This ensures that the collar is not too tight, causing discomfort or restricting movement, and not too loose, risking the puppy slipping out of it. Room for growth: Lab puppies grow rapidly, and adjustable collars provide the flexibility to accommodate their changing neck size. As your puppy grows, you can adjust the size of the adjustable collar accordingly, providing a snug fit without the need for frequent collar replacements. Economical option: Investing in adjustable collars eliminates the need to purchase multiple collars as your lab puppy grows. This helps save money in the long run and ensures that you always have a well-fitting collar for your pup. Durable and long-lasting: Adjustable collars are typically made of high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity. They are designed to withstand the active lifestyle of lab puppies, making them a reliable choice for everyday use. Easy to clean: Lab puppies are known for their playful and messy nature. Adjustable collars are easy to clean, allowing you to maintain hygiene and keep your puppy looking smart and presentable at all times. When choosing a collar for your lab puppy, consider the convenience and versatility that adjustable collars offer. They provide a customized and comfortable fit, accommodate your puppy's growth, and are a cost-effective choice in the long run. Choosing a Collar with Room for Growth When selecting a collar for your lab puppy, it is crucial to choose one that allows room for growth. To make sure you get the right size, follow these steps: Start by measuring your lab puppy's neck size using a flexible tape measure or a piece of string and a ruler. Wrap the measuring tape or string around the base of the neck, where the collar will sit. Remember to leave a finger's width of space for comfort. Once you have the measurement of the neck size, add an extra inches to allow for growth. This ensures that the collar will fit comfortably as your lab puppy grows. Look for adjustable collars with multiple holes or a sliding mechanism that can easily be adjusted as your lab puppy develops. Consider collars made from lightweight and durable materials like nylon or leather. These materials can withstand the wear and tear that comes with a growing lab puppy. Ensure that the collar is neither too tight nor too loose when fastened. It should fit snugly around your lab puppy's neck, allowing freedom of movement without causing any discomfort. Pro-tip: Keep checking and adjusting the collar as your lab puppy grows to ensure a proper fit and prevent any potential discomfort or accidents. Ensuring Comfort and Proper Fit Ensuring comfort and proper fit is crucial when choosing a collar for a lab puppy. Here are some guidelines to follow: Choose a collar made of soft and lightweight material. It should be comfortable for the puppy to wear without causing any irritation or chafing. Ensure that the collar is adjustable. This will allow you to find the perfect fit for your lab puppy as it grows. Select a collar with a buckle or snap closure that is easy to fasten and secure. Avoid collars with complicated or hard-to-use closures. Check that the collar is not too tight or too loose. It should fit snugly around the puppy's neck without restricting their movement or causing discomfort. Regularly check the collar to make sure it remains properly fitted as the puppy grows. Adjust the collar accordingly to ensure a comfortable fit at all times. Recommended Collar Sizes for Lab Puppies at Different Ages When it comes to choosing the right collar size for your lab puppy, it's important to consider their age and growth. Collar Sizes for Lab Puppies up to 3 Months Collar sizes for lab puppies up to 3 months are determined by their age and weight. Lab puppies up to 3 months of age are typically smaller and lighter compared to older puppies. It is essential to choose a collar that fits a lab puppy neither too tightly nor too loosely. An adjustable collar is recommended to accommodate the puppy's growth. Ensure that the collar is comfortable and does not cause any discomfort or irritation to the puppy's neck. Before selecting a collar, accurately measure the puppy's neck size. Collars with room for growth are ideal for lab puppies up to 3 months as they experience rapid growth during this stage. To determine the appropriate collar size, consult the breed standards and average sizes for lab puppies. Consider the lab puppy's weight and neck size when selecting the collar size. Collar Sizes for Lab Puppies from 3 to 6 Months When choosing collar sizes for Labrador puppies aged 3 to 6 months, it is important to consider their growth and comfort. Here is a table outlining the recommended collar sizes based on the weight of the lab puppies: Weight Range. That way, you can check sizing as you go along! Once the collar is fastened, you want to be able to slip two or three fingers underneath. Anything tighter can cause discomfort, and anything looser will be easy for your dog to slip out of. These are usually made out of webbing or leather, without any padding. Padded collar. These are a good option if your pup has sensitive skin. Martingale collar. These are designed to be used during training sessions or on walks and should not be left on all the time. Once you come home, remember to remove the collar. You may want to replace it with a flat collar with an ID tag. This can correct their forward movement by causing discomfort and encourage them not to pull. Some owners prefer not to use a martingale collar to correct pulling and instead, focus on re-training that behavior. Collar material Most collars are made from either webbing or leather. Leather is of higher quality than webbing, so these collars are usually a bit more expensive. It does give a high-end, luxurious look that some dog owners love. Leather collars can start to smell a little if they are left damp. This hardwearing collar offers great value for money, as well as being tough enough to stand up to whatever an enthusiastic Labrador can throw at it! Our reviews are designed to make your life easier. So, instead of trawling through hundreds of options and feeling overwhelmed, simply choose one of our recommended collars instead! Which collar would you choose for your Lab? This product is perfect for animal lovers who spend too much time outdoors with their dogs. It will resist the forces of the most powerful, energetic, and playful dogs. An adult Labrador has a neck size between inches. An adjustable collar would be ideal for adult dog weight or fur thickness fluctuations. I remember going through several collars with my Lab pup until we found one that suited him perfectly. Opt for heavy-duty materials like nylon webbing or thick leather combined with strong D-rings for leash attachment. It ensures maximum durability and security during walks or training sessions. They come with an adjustable buckle or quick-release mechanism. Some include reflective stitching or material for nighttime visibility. A flat collar is what most people associate with when they think of dog collars. Martingale collars Also called limited-slip collars, are another excellent choice. They are designed for dogs like Labs with wider necks than their heads. A martingale collar is often used as a backup for a rescue dog. These unique martingale collars consist of two loops. When your Lab pulls on its leash, this design tightens slightly without choking them. This is an essential safety feature for dogs easily slipping out of flat-collared designs. Few specialized training collars focus on correcting unwanted behaviors , such as pulling during walks. Head halter-style trainers These provide greater control over large breeds like Labradors. They use gentle pressure points around their muzzle rather than applying forceful tension onto their necks. They offer maximum comfort during obedience lessons. Nylon webbing is an excellent choice. Like the Blueberry Pet Essentials collection , many nylon collars come in eye-catching colors. If you prefer a more classic appearance or a stronger collar, opt for Black Rhino Comfort Collar. It features nickel-plated hardware designed to withstand even large dogs pulling force. You should be able to fit two fingers underneath the collar. Neoprene padding or nylon webbing prevents chafing. Personalized collars can identify your pup if they get lost or separated. Look for features like reflective stitching or LED lights for increased nighttime visibility. A light-up collar keeps your beloved companion safe during low-light conditions. Which best dog collars for labs to go for, then? From no pull to camouflage dog collars, the market is full. However, not all collars are comfortable and safe for your dog. Thankfully, we have found the top two picks after thorough research and testing. This piece is versatile and made of high-quality nylon material with sturdy buckle closure. Soft Touch Collars Luxury Leather Collars cannot be beaten for ultimate luxury and comfort during walks. What black lab collar is best? A black labrador looks excellent in a black, red, and green collar. A black collar perfectly complements the black coat of a labrador. What leads are best for Labradors? Most trainers recommend a six-foot lead with a secure clasp. Nylon leads are popular among pet owners as they do the job easily. A durable nylon lead with nickel-plated hardware is excellent for daily use. With extensive research and personal experiences, Aritra has become a Labrador expert, offering a rich resource on the breed. The site serves as a comprehensive resource, offering a wealth of up-to-date information for Labrador owners and enthusiasts alike. Eco Blue Ruffwear Puppies grow out of their collars really quickly. So plan on buying several different sizes as your puppy grows. When you first bring your Labrador puppy home he will need a very small collar, look for one that is about half and inch wide and with an adjustable length of around 9 to 14 inches. You can buy one before you bring him home and it will last him a few weeks. Puppies should only wear a collar when they are being supervised. Take his collar off at night and whenever you leave him in a crate during the day. Puppies can get, and have got, caught up by their collars Even better for puppies is a body harness, because it completely avoids putting any pressure on his delicate little neck. But harnesses are a bit more expensive so you might want to wait until you get him home to measure him properly. The soft touch range comes in small puppy sizes and are ideal for a first leather collar The Ruffwear harness is a high end quality product and it is one of the more expensive harnesses, so perhaps more suited for older puppies or dogs that are done growing. It does come in small sizes though if you fancy splashing out. And it comes in a wide range of great colors. For smaller, younger puppies, the Ecobark Mesh harnesses makes a great, modestly priced harness. Most Lab puppies will start off in a medium, but again measure carefully!

Like other mixed breed dogs , the German shepherd and standard poodle cross inherits traits from both parent breeds, which means the dogs can range in size, weight, appearance, and temperament. These dogs can have the coarse, dense, black and tan coats that German shepherds are known for, or sport curlier, low-shedding coats that are the hallmark of their poodle parent. Both German shepherds and poodles are known for being active, intelligent breeds and the shepadoodle remains true to his roots. He's a dog that needs a lot of exercise, consistent training, and because shepadoodles descend from two working dog breeds he'll be happiest with a job to do. Appearance Just like German shepherds and standard poodles, shepadoodles are large dogs. Full-grown shepadoodles stand 22—28 inches tall and weigh between 60—90 pounds, but that's where the mixed breed's consistency ends. These pups can look totally different from one another, depending on which parent they take after more. Courtesy of teddy. But it's certainly possible to see the poodle influence in their coats, too, says Sally Hammond, director of Doodle Dandy Rescue in Texas. Temperament Though German shepherds and poodles differ in appearance, these distinct breeds do share some personality traits. Hammond says both were developed as working dogs and are prized for their intelligence, athleticism, trainability, and need for mental stimulation. As a German shepherd and poodle mix, shepadoodles embody all of these characteristics. Hammond says a well-exercised and well-trained! He needs an owner who can keep him busy and engaged so his sharp mind doesn't become bored. A shepadoodle is no different—these are not dogs that like to spend a lot of time alone, and their families should be prepared to meet their social needs. Living Needs When it comes to the best environment for the shepadoodle, Hammond says the more space, more interaction, more exercise, and more training, the better. Poodles are known as champion barkers , she says, and German shepherds will sound the alarm when there are deliveries or noise from neighbors. So if you don't want passive aggressive glances from neighbors in the hallway, think twice before bringing a shepadoodle into your unit or commit to training them not to bark at passersby. But even with a yard, you shouldn't expect your shepadoodle to entertain himself. Shepadoodles are high-energy dogs that love running , hiking , and swimming. This is not a dog that will be satisfied with a quick walk around the block ; expect to devote a few hours a day to helping your shepadoodle burn off his energy. And because they're so energetic, big shepadoodles might be a little much for a family with small children. Care To keep a shepadoodle mix happy, he needs plenty of exercise—both for his muscles and his brain. The breed excels in agility , obedience, and flyball. Hammond also suggests nose work for these dogs, in either a formal or informal setting: "Take them outside on a leash and let them smell things," she says. Training is essential. Not only are shepadoodles highly intelligent and eager to learn new things, but without adequate mental stimulation the breed will get bored and exhibit some unwelcome behaviors like chewing or barking. Get a trainer and keep up the training. As with all dogs, always use positive reinforcement methods and reward your shepadoodle's good behavior. Another constant of shepadoodle care is grooming. Whether he inherits the German shepherd's flat, coarse coat or the curly poodle locks, he'll need to be brushed several times throughout the week. If you have a curly-coated shepadoodle, you'll need to schedule regular appointments with a professional groomer, too. Remember keeping up with nail trims , routine dental care , and monthly preventives to protect against fleas, ticks, and heartworm disease are also an essential part of caring for your shepadoodle. Check and clean his ears , too, especially if he spends a lot of time swimming. Health Shepadoodles are fairly healthy dogs with an average lifespan of 10—14 years. But they are susceptible to some health issues inherited from their parents. Poodles are prone to progressive retinal atrophy , a group of eye diseases that cause the retinal cells to degenerate, leading to blindness. The diseases can be diagnosed in puppies and older dogs and, while it causes no pain, there is also no treatment. Your vet may recommend antioxidant supplements to delay cataracts and prolong vision. It's a progressive disease that targets the spinal cord and causes hind limb weakness and paralysis; lack of balance and dragging hind feet are the earliest symptoms. There is no treatment or cure for degenerative myelopathy. Hip dysplasia is also commonly diagnosed in German shepherds. It's a condition that causes the joints in the hip to grind because the joint and socket do not fit together. Common treatments include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and surgery. Perhaps the biggest shepadoodle health condition to be aware of is gastric dilatation volvulus, or bloat. This is a life-threatening condition when gas stretches the stomach, causing it to twist and cut off blood to the stomach. Both poodles and German shepherds plus other breeds with deep chests and thin waists are prone to bloat. Gastropexy, a preventive procedure that involves stitching the stomach to the side of the body, is sometimes recommended for bloat-prone breeds. History After the first documented "doodle" dog a Labradoodle was bred in the s, demand for the designer breed took off. This led to interest in crossing poodles with other breeds, such as—you guessed it—German shepherds. And, without formal breed registration, little is known about how the breed originated. But the shepadoodle's parent breeds both have rich histories. Poodles originated as hunting dogs in Germany and are the national dog of France. German shepherds are another German breed and have a long resume as working dogs for militaries and police departments around the world. Fun Facts The shepadoodle isn't the only popular and loved! German shepherd mix. There's also the Gerberian shepsky a German shepherd and husky mix , the golden shepherd a German shepherd and golden retriever mix , and a sheprador a German shepherd and Labrador retriever mix. There are a lot of popular poodle mixes out there, too, including the goldendoodle a poodle and golden retriever cross , Bernedoodle a poodle and Bernese mountain dog cross and Yorkie-poo a poodle and Yorkie mix. Was this page helpful? The variance of weights may be attributed to the contrasting sizes of its parent breeds. Their height may range from 22 to 24 inches. The German Shepherd Poodles have a medium-length coat. It may inherit either the curly type coat of the Poodle parent breed or the wavy type coat of the German Shepherd. The coat colors can be a mixture of gray, black, cream, tan, and sable. The Poodle German Shepherd mix features the energy and courage of the German Shepherd breed in a subtler way. You would appreciate its loving nature and energy as you play together. The German Shepherd crossed with Poodle dogs is intelligent. This trait enables faster training and easier acquisition of skills and commands. These dogs can become service dogs if trained appropriately. This crossbreed tends to be a great family dog. It needs to be around people most of the time. If left unattended, it may develop separation anxiety and other negative psychologic disposition. It is crucial to be selective in choosing where you would get the dog. A responsible breeder must be knowledgeable about the breed and the optimal conditions where he grows the dog. Aside from thorough research of canine resources and breeders, it is optimal to visit the home of the breeder or the kennel of the venue. You can also inspect how the parent breed is living. You must observe the cleanliness, odor, and other factors for the living conditions of your future family member. Applies to all dog food recalls in the U. Another important variable in buying the crossbreed is good communication with the breeder. The professional breeder can help you if you encounter some problems. These sources have inconsistencies and unreliability. If you are doubtful of breeders, you could check out a few non-profit rescue centers for particular dog breeds. The German Shepherd Poodles may shed lightly to moderately, based on the dominant genes between their parent breeds. Brushing is beneficial in developing your bond with your dog as well as its aesthetic value. It is worth giving some time instead of becoming frustrated when the dog gets ill. It also aids in removing loose hair. You may opt to use of a slicker for untangling mats or knots in the fur. The slicker brush is capable of penetrating the thick layers of the double coat and enable a wonderful grooming session. The coat of the German Shepherd Poodles needs two to four times of brushing per week. Its active lifestyle contributes to becoming more unkempt faster than other less energetic breeds. Daily brushing is necessary during the seasons of undercoat shedding. I advise that you groom the dog on a flat surface or clean table. It is better to do the activity in a tranquil and peaceful environment to reduce the chances of irritability. It is essential that you apply gentle touches and as minimal pressure as possible. Poodle crossed with German Shepherd dogs are mainly odor-free and pristine. Their bathing schedule maybe once every two to three months. Human shampoo is prohibited. You should only use a shampoo formula that is hypoallergenic and neutral pH. In grooming the Poodle mixed with German Shepherd dogs, you must also pay attention to the small parts such as the teeth, nails, eyes, nose, paws, and ears. You should look thoroughly for signs of eye, nose, or ear infections. If you are unsure of clipping the nails, I advise that you set an appointment with a local groomer. The nails are important parts of the dog, and they easily chip off by accident. The procedure for brushing the teeth of the German Shepherd Poodles is the same for brushing your own teeth. You will need some extra time to allow for familiarity to settle in. You must conduct the activity in a gradual manner. Its health status and risk factors depend on genetic inheritance and environmental factors. The parent breeds Poodle and German Shepherd have a variety of differences in health predilections and benefits. Below is a list of the usual health problems observed in the combination of a Poodle and a German Shepherd: Hip and elbow dysplasia: This condition occurs often in heavy dogs. It is caused by the displacement of the thighbone and hip joint. Perianal Fistula: This illness occurs mainly in the parent breed German Shepherd. This happens when the skin surrounding the anus drains and communicates with an internal cavity. The wounds on the anus may cause foul smelling discharge and infections. Tick and flea infestations: This condition is mostly caused by poor grooming habits. This is also a reminder of how crucial grooming can be. Osteoarthritis: This degenerative disorder is a result of aging. It leads to difficulty and pain when utilizing the affected joint. In German Shepherd crossbreeds, the most affected part is the spine. Hemophilia: This is a blood disorder that manifests as prolonged wound closure and healing and excessive bleeding. It is incurable but manageable. It is important to notice this early on the life of the dog. One of the primary prevention methods you can do is having consistent schedules with the veterinarian. These visits will allow you to track the course of health problems. These visits can also help reassure you if you notice some suspicious signs that need to be addressed. A minimum of an annual checkup is recommended for dogs with no warning signs. Poodle Crossed with German Shepherd Food Requirements Achieving the best health status for your dog is dependent greatly on the nutrition that you provide. The quality of the dog food is crucial in the overall diet plan and the difference between worst dry dog food and best dry dog food is huge! The amount will vary from one dog to another, heavily based on its weight, level of activity, size, and age. The general amount of food suitable for an adult German Shepherd Poodle mix dog may vary from 2 cups to 4 cups of high-quality kibbles. It is advisable to divide the food servings into two meals each day. The size of the pooch should dictate the choice between the best dry dog food for small dogs and the best large breed dry dog food. When it comes to age, appropriate recipes for whelps, like best puppy food brands , will help your furry pal thrive. Once they enter their golden years, the best senior dry dog food will help to keep their brittle bones stronger! Some essential minerals for the development of puppies are calcium and phosphorus. Calcium is crucial in the growth of strong bones, teeth, eyes, and joints. It has a vital role in the immune system as well. Phosphorus is needed for the proper development of joint and bones. Below is a list of the recommended dry food for the Poodle crossed with German Shepherd dogs. It contains deboned and rich chicken with peas, blueberries, sweet potatoes, and apples. It has a savory flavor that your dog will truly love. It helps in the joint and hip function due to the chondroitin and glucosamine supplements. Dog For Dog Food : This recipe is rich in amino acids for strong and lean muscles. It has high-quality protein and a hefty amount of carbohydrates to sustain the energy level of the dogs. It contains essential vitamins and minerals as well. It includes nine simple key ingredients. It has a meat component that ensures a tasty and adequate amount of animal protein. It does not have any unhealthy additives. This brand has a 4, 12, or pound bags available. Natural Balance L. It has a mild and selected mixture of protein and carbohydrates to help in digesting the food more easily. The carbohydrates in this formulation may be garbanzo beans, brown rice, potatoes, and peas. It also features the right amount of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for a shiny and healthy coat. You should consult with a veterinarian if you have more inquiries about the nutritional needs of the dog and if you want to have a detailed diet plan. It is better to monitor the food intake and food reaction of your dog to assess the nutritional status. Your pooch may otherwise suffer from a nutritional imbalance, which can be fixed by giving them Nutra Thrive dog food supplement or any similar product. Naturally, talking to the vet is essential before resorting to food supplements so make sure you make an appointment prior to buying them. They need to have an adequate amount of physical activity of at least one hour. To capture the attention of your dog, you will need an adequate combination of mental and physical stimulation for this mixed breed. The dogs will enjoy jogging, playing fetch, and hiking. One activity that you can include in the exercise period is a chewing activity. It can rebound when compressed, allowing a more dynamic playtime for the dog. You can fill the tire walls with treats. On some days, you would choose to stay at home and allow your dog to play inside the house. You would need to have a playpen with adequate space. It has a coating finish for preventing rust build-up. It can be assembled more easily. You can also use this with non-climbing small animals. Poodle Crossed with German Shepherd Training The German Shepherd crossed with Poodle dogs has a boundless potential to become therapy and service dogs, particularly in the military. You will need proper training for effective behavior and skill acquisition. They can be very adept to agility training. The training sessions could be stressful for the dogs, so it is crucial that you are there for them to boost their morale. Here are some tips on training the German Shepherd Poodles: Positive rewards-based system: This system is one of the most effective among the techniques. Dogs tend to learn better in a gentle and supportive atmosphere, as humans do. Positive words and gestures will help reinforce learning and avoid discomfort and other negative emotions. Never hit your dog: This action will affect your bond with the dog. The dog could see you as a threat and attack you. It may develop antisocial personality traits. Limit the duration of the training sessions: Misbehaviors often result from long periods of training. If you do this technique, your dog can focus better on the training periods. Take advantage of its young age: Puppies learn the fastest among the age range of dogs. You need to be consistent and reasonable when training puppies. A good training period can boost the relationship between the owner and the dog. There are available experienced dog trainers that you may contact if training proves to be extremely challenging. These family-friendly dogs enjoy the company of the little ones. It is important to set an example for children in how to treat the dog with respect and love. German Shepherd mixed with Poodle pups may crave attention. You should set aside some time to attend to their needs, because this may contribute to the development of separation anxiety. You can subject the dog for early socialization. This process will help in achieving better adjustment and more loving family dynamic. It will help the dog distinguish between good and bad stimuli and emotions. It can also make them feel at ease with the new environment, especially when you acquire them from another home. These dogs can be a wonderful addition to your family. They would bring excitement to the household, and they help cultivate the spirit of closeness. Shepdoodle Description The Shepadoodle is not a purebred dog. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. He is almost 11 months old. His dad was a German Shepherd and his mom was a Standard Poodle. He weighs about 76 pounds. Bailey is a kind and loving dog. He loves other dogs and kids. He is very shy in meeting new people but once he decides he likes the person they become almost like his friends as my family calls it. Everyone loves meeting him! He at weeks-old was super quick to learn sit, shake and down. House training was a breeze with him. All and all I would say he is an amazing dog who is vocal and is to smart for his own good! Bailey is a big goofball I laugh at him everyday! He loves all people and other dogs. Very obedient, he excels at any type of training. We get his grooming done every 3 weeks. Kyser has been a joy to have in our family, even when he is having a "Kyser bratty moment" everyone still loves his goofy personality and sweet temperament. His owners call him.We've had her for just over a month now and couldn't be happier with her; she fit right into our family of two kids and two other dogs. Life Span Did You Know? These dogs are loyal, intelligent, and loving. They bond closely with their families, are protective of them, and are affectionate with them. The American Kennel Club does not recognize the Shepadoodle, but they are recognized by other dog registries. Shepadoodles make great family dogs. They are playful and energetic, and they get along well with children and other dogs. Their high prey drive can be a challenge with smaller pets in the household. They do well with pets that are part of the family unit and they were raised with, but will need extra socialization and training in other cases. Because they are naturally protective, they are initially wary of strangers. If they have been properly socialized, they will warm up once introduced, but it may take a little bit of time before they are comfortable. They also tend to bark to alert you, which can become a nuisance if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. Shepadoodles are moderately adaptable dogs. Because they require so much daily exercise and mental stimulation, they do not tend to do well in apartments. They are better suited to homes with fenced yards where they can run. They do well in most climates, but are sensitive to heat. Because they bond closely with their families, are protective, and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing issues to puppies, so make sure you are asking them about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. The Shepadoodle is an intelligent dog that picks up on things quickly and responds well to training. They are lifelong learners that love learning new things. Generally, they are easy to train, but they do require a confident, respectful, and firm leader that can provide structured, consistent training. This can be a challenge for first-time dog owners or owners that do not have experience training a large dog. Because of this, puppy training classes or a professional dog trainer are recommended. A Shepadoodle coat will either be non-shedding like the Poodle or low-shedding if they take a little bit more after their GSD parent. Either way, they will need daily brushing to remove tangles and prevent mats and professional grooming every weeks. Trimming nails once or twice monthly keeps them from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks and careful cleanings when needed can help prevent ear infections. Daily dental care along with cleanings at the vet as needed can help prevent dental diseases later in life. Shepadoodles are high-energy dogs that need a lot of daily activity and a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and extra activity are usually enough for them. A fully-grown Shepadoodle usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. Some Shepadoodles have weighed in at over pounds, so you will want to meet the parents to get a better idea of what size to expect once your Shepadoodle is done growing. Shepadoodles were developed in the s by the United States Army. The goal was to create a highly intelligent service dog that did not shed much. Featured Shepadoodle Article.