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Is the Labrador Sharpei hybrid the right pet for you? What is a Shar Pei Lab mix? Most Labrador Sharpei dogs have almond-shaped eyes and black or dark brown noses. Their small, folded ears are reminiscent of those on the Labrador. How big does a Shar Pei Lab mix get? As mentioned above a full-grown Shar Pei Lab mix stands 18 to 25 inches 45 to 63 cm tall and can weigh between 40 to 60 pounds 18 to 27 kg. Some breeders may try to pass off a smaller hybrid as a mini Shar-Pei Lab mix. These undersized dogs are most likely bred from so-called Miniature Labradors, which are Labs that carry the gene for dwarfism. Regular-sized Shar Pei and Lab hybrids often have a compact, muscular physique. What is the temperament of a Shar Pei Lab mix? Shar Pei and Labrador mixes tend to inherit the independent nature of their Shar Pei parent. These dogs will prefer spending time with you to being alone. Shar Pei and Lab mixes, like Shar Peis, are also adaptable. They can easily adjust to a variety of living situations and environments. Training a Shar Pei Lab mix The most important factor in training a Sharpay-Lab cross is asserting your authority as a pack leader. Be firm during training sessions, but make sure you reward good behavior as well. With consistent training, your Lab and Shar Pei mix will quickly pick up and master commands and non-verbal cues. Early socialization is crucial for the Lab Shar Pei crossbreed, as this dog needs to learn how to properly behave around other pets and younger children in the household. Is the Shar Pei Lab mix hypoallergenic? Use a damp cloth to clean these folds regularly so you can prevent skin infections and allergies. Feed your Lab Shar Pei 2 to 3 cups of dry dog food daily. This amount of food should be split into 3 or 4 meals a day to prevent bloat, which commonly affects the Labrador and other large dogs. Ideally, the kibble should be large in size to keep the Labrador Sharpei from quickly gobbling it down. You can also keep your dog from eating too fast by using a slow feeder bowl. Keeping your Lab Pei at a healthy weight Their large size and healthy appetites make these crossbreeds prone to obesity. Shar Pei Lab mixes tend to put on weight quickly, so try not to go over the recommended daily amount of food for these dogs. Daily exercise also helps in keeping your Shar Pei and Lab crossbreed fit. Long walks, runs around the neighborhood, and short hikes are all activities that this hybrid will enjoy. What health problems do Labrador Shar Pei mix dogs have? As mentioned in the first paragraph a Shar-Pei and Lab mix has a life expectancy of 8 to 10 years, but several conditions can affect its health. As in most large dogs, hip and elbow dysplasia is common in this crossbreed. Histiocytoma , a skin cancer, also commonly affects Shar Peis. This serious skin condition could manifest in the Shar Pei Lab cross as well. Like its Labrador parent, the Lab Shar Pei can be prone to heart conditions, muscular dystrophy, and progressive retinal atrophy. The Shar Pei can also pass down to the Shar Pei and Lab mix a predisposition to respiratory problems, cherry eye, and deflated muzzles. You may have better luck looking for these dogs at breeders of Shar Peis and Labradors. You can get in touch with these breeders to see if they have any Shar Pei and Lab mix puppies:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. The result is a medium-sized dog that hopefully offers the best of both worlds. Generally, a Lab Pei should be a friendly and loving member of the family like a Lab but have the guard dog instincts of a Shar-Pei and raise the alarm at home when something is not right. They should be intelligent and highly trainable like a Lab but have the independence of a Shar-Pei that allows them to tolerate being left alone for extended periods of time. They should have a coat somewhat like a Lab but less wrinkles than a Shar-Pei, meaning fewer skin issues. This is the ideal breeders are looking for when they mix a Labrador retriever and a Shar-Pei, but this kind of breeding can be unpredictable. As a result, it is often difficult to know exactly what to expect from any Lab Pei puppy. Read on as we take a closer look at the most important characteristics of the parent breeds and how they are likely to combine in a Lab Pei to help you decide if the Lab Pei is the right dog for you! Breed: Mixed breed combining Shar-Pei and Labrador retriever Height: 18 to 20 inches Weight: 55 to 70 pounds Lifespan: 8 to 12 years Coat: Short-to-medium coat with medium shedding and block color Trainability: Intelligent but stubborn and sensitive Energy: High energy but with a tendency to overheat Temperament: Loyal but wary of strangers and relatively independent History Of The Breed The Shar-Pei originates from southern China and seems to be a very old breed, as it closely resembles statues of dogs dating from the Han Dynasty around 2, years ago. It is certainly a basal breed that predates the modern breeds of the 19th century. In China, they were used as guard dogs in the early 20th century, but the breed almost became extinct by the s due to war, famine, and political turmoil. The breed was saved in the early s when Matgo Law, a businessman from Hong Kong, appealed to international kennel clubs to help save the breed. Following intensive breeding, much of it unscrupulous, the Shar-Pei was recognized by the American Kennel Club in .In the United States, Shar-Peis are often bred to be smaller than the standard, measuring no more than 16 inches tall and having extra wrinkly skin! They were bred to retrieve game from land and water. Labradors are known for being highly intelligent and naturally friendly, which is why they make excellent working dogs, especially in roles as service dogs. The Labrador is among the most popular breeds both as a pet and guide dog. Breeders started experimenting with mixing the two breeds in the s. The aim was to reduce the shedding of Labrador coats by mixing it with the lower shedding Shar-Pei and to improve the credentials of the Lab as a dual companion and guide dog. While this breeding has been relatively successful, mixed breed dogs can still be somewhat unpredictable. Appearance Both Labrador retrievers and Shar-Peis are medium-sized dogs, though Labs are notably the larger of the two. This is why you can always expect the Lab to be the mother in an Z1 Lab Pei. Labradors usually measure between .Shar-Peis are smaller, measuring 17 to 20 inches and weighing 35 to 45 pounds. It is unusual to see a Lab Pei that measures more than 20 inches, and they typically weigh 50 to 60 pounds, but they can be heavier, up to around 70 pounds. The dog will be a solid block color. Labs are black, chocolate, or golden. Shar-Peis can be any block color other than white, but they are most commonly black, red, fawn or cream. They can appear like their color is textured, but this is more due to folds of the skin creating dense areas rather than actual color. However, Shar-Peis do have a distinctive black tongue, and the skin around the muzzle also tends to be darker. You can expect your Lab Pei to be any of these solid colors. Labrador retrievers are known for their thick and soft double coat, which is beautiful and protective but also sheds a lot! The Shar-Pei has a short, harsh, and bristly coat that is low-shedding. Breeders will try to prioritize the low-shedding coat in Lab Pei puppies, but it is not always possible to control for this, and your dog could have either coat. Labradors have an athletic build with a square and long muzzle and long floppy ears. Shar-Peis have a melon-shaped head with a flat, broad muzzle. While they have athletic bodies, their heads are proportionately large. They also have clam-shell ears and excess skin that causes deep wrinkles. How these physical characteristics will combine in a mixed pup is difficult to predict. Very often you will see dogs with the longer muzzle of a Lab but the clam-shell ears or a Shar-Pei, though slightly longer than normal. Skin wrinkling is expected, but to a much lesser extent than on a purebred Shar-Pei. Whichever coat your dog receives, they will need quite a bit of grooming! Lab coats need to be brushed regularly to remove excess hair and limit shedding. Wrinkle coats mean frequent bathing to keep bacteria that can form in skin folds under control and prevent infections. Temperament Labrador retrievers and Shar-Peis have opposing temperaments. Labs are innately friendly dogs that love everyone and get on well with children , strangers, and other animals. Meanwhile, Shar-Peis are naturally wary and can be aggressive. They are likely to bark at strangers and chase and attack smaller animals if not properly socialized from a young age. From a Lab Pei, you can expect something between the two. They will probably bond quickly with your family and can be taught not to chase the cat if socialized early, but will continue to be wary of strangers, making them a better guard dog than a pure Lab. Labradors are highly intelligent and motivated to please, which makes them very easy to train. They bond quickly and are innately loyal, so they are easy to control, even if you are a first-time owner. Shar-Peis, on the other hand, are less intelligent, so they need more training to master new skills, and they can also be stubborn. They are quite independent and will test you if you show weakness. They are also very sensitive, which means that they can respond badly to any kind of punishment. When you mix the two, the result is often a dog that can tolerate being left alone for much longer periods but would really prefer to be around you! Energy Labrador retrievers are known to be high-energy dogs that need lots of exercise, usually at least an hour a day. But Shar-Peis are lazier, needing only about half that. They are also prone to overheating due to their wrinkly coat and breathing issues due to their relatively flat nose. When you mix the two breeds, what you often get is a dog with lots of energy that might not be able to keep up with itself. Always have water and shade on hand for them to recover. Labs love to swim , and their coats are designed for that purpose. Shar-Peis can either love or hate the water. Also, make sure you dry your dog thoroughly after swimming, especially if there are any wrinkles. Both Labs and Shar-Peis can be prone to weight gain as they tend to overeat. This is because they are unable to tell when they are full, and loving parents seeing empty bowls give them more food. Health Both Labradors and Shar-Peis are prone to specific health conditions due to breeding practices that make these prevalent. This is not to say that your dog will definitely have any of these conditions, but they are things you should monitor for so they can be dealt with swiftly and effectively if they do affect your dog. Watch out for elbow and hip dysplasia, which is when joints form incorrectly, resulting in mobility issues and pain later in life. One of the main reasons this happens is overexerting puppies, exacerbating growth issues. Avoid this by limiting your dog to five minutes of exercise per day per month of age while they are a growing pup. A four-month-old pup should only have about 20 minutes of exercise a day. Progressive eye issues are also common, and most Labs and Lab mixes will lose at least some of their sight as they enter their senior years. Shar-Peis can have the additional issue of entropion, which is when the eyelashes grow inwards. This can be painful and cause blindness if not treated swiftly. The skin of Shar-Peis comes with various health warnings, which are partially mitigated by mixing with a Lab. Nevertheless, still keep an eye out from chronic skin allergies and dermatological issues. Ear infections are also an issue, and they can be worse in Lab mixes as they tend to have longer ears that can completely close the ear canal. Shar-Peis can also inherit a chronic disease that causes short fevers that can last one to three days and swelling around the ankles. A vitamin B12 deficiency is also very common in Shar-Peis and their offspring. A Lab Pei will have a life expectancy of 8 to 12 years, and they will probably enter their senior years at around the age of seven. Read more about senior dogs and their specific needs here. You can expect Shar-Pei Lab mix puppies to be quite expensive and relatively difficult to find. While Shar-Peis are not at risk of extinction any more, they are still relatively rare when compared to other breeds. Labradors are popular, but as well as being bred as pure, they are also popular in many mix breeds. Interested in adopting a rescue dog? Find useful articles in our rescue dog archive. What do you think? Does a Lab Pei represent the best of both worlds when it comes to a friendly and compliant family pet and an effective guard dog? As is the case with many dogs, their temperament and behavior will depend very much on their environment and not just their breed! A dog that is properly socialized and trained from a young age can be a loving and friendly family pet that knows when to relax and when to be on high alert. If so, tell us about your dog in the comment section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Learn how your comment data is processed. Keep in touch. Video: Shar Pei Lab Mix Puppies Temperament and Behavior These dogs generally have an even, protective, loving temperament which they inherit from their parents. If they take mostly to the sharpei side, they might at times be independent, dominant, alert, lordly and brave. Like their parents, they would try to protect their family members. They are emotionally responsive, loving, smart and kind. Though they are not aggressive to strangers, but would warn-bark if they come across intruders, strange noises or anything suspicious. Thus they make a good watchdog as well. They are good with kids and other pets provided they get the right training, and at the right age. This intelligent dog is ready to please you. However, in return, they would expect some attention and affection from their loved ones. They can adapt and establish itself very easily with family life, and thus makes a good apartment dog. Care Exercise Because they are average to large-sized dogs, the Lab Pei needs a pretty good amount of daily exercise. They need lots of physical activity all day, and a spacious apartment is always good for them. Their exercise requirements can be fulfilled through long walks and jogging. This should keep a balance between their physical and mental health, and prevent them from being flippant and destructive. They have a high playing instinct and would enjoy if they get an open yard to run and play around. But make sure the yard is fenced and safe before you untie your dog from its leash. Grooming Because they have a short coat, the grooming requirement for these dogs is moderate to easy. Brush them once to twice a week so as to retain the natural glow. Also, note whether your dog does not enjoy water like its sharpei parent. In that case, bathe it very rarely, may be once a year, if you think they are really untidy and in need for one. Dogs with wrinkles are susceptible to skin infections. If your pet has some wrinkles, cleaning them regularly by wiping the folds with a moist cloth. Rest of the grooming part, including nail-trimming or brushing teeth, are similar to other pet dogs. Health Problems Just like most other cross breeds, no breed specific issues have been determined in the lab pei. Dysplasia is a common issue with larger dogs, and both their parents are vulnerable to this. Similarly, other problems like entropion, luxation, cherry eye, ear infections, stenotic nares, tight lips, malocclusion, hypothyrooidism, demodectic mange, oleosa, hot spots, skin odor, etc. This might tend to make them disobey the trainer. In that case, a very firm hand, and some good amount of patience is required for it to be trained. You can consult a professional trainer the moment you find your dog displays the slightest behavioral issue. Give them socialization and housebreaking trainings from the time you bring them home from the breeders. Train the puppies consistently and with firm hands. Praise your dog or give them treats whenever it finds success or displays obedience. Stick to the same routine diet like the other large-sized dogs with the same energy levels. If you would go for dry foods like kibbles, be sure that you stick to quality and that, you are providing it with the right quantity of food. I have a 7 year old Sharpei Lab named Tyson. He has black fir and big brown eyes that are just full of love when I look in them. He makes me laugh and smile. He is always by my side. Not a complaint about him. Lifespan Sociability The Lab Pei is known to be protective of his estate and family. If he takes after his Shar-Pei parent more than his Labrador parent, there is a very high chance that he will guard his home. Although not aggressive, he will stand his ground and will not appreciate strangers coming to the house. In addition to his sometimes-overwhelming protectiveness, he can also be independent and stubborn. The Lab Pei needs a firm owner that is going to step up to the challenge of being the top dog and never allowing the Lab Pei to think he is. Training with any Shar-Pei mix is a lifelong requirement, not a quick 1-month obedience course down at your local center. But there is no doubt about it, this dominant dog is hard work and he needs an experienced dog owner. Being part Shar-Pei he will also not appreciate other animals or pets, especially other dogs. Even if he is well-socialized and the initial meet-up with other pets went swimmingly, he is known to change his mind overnight. So, if you have other pets or are planning to have other pets in the family home, you need to move on to another mixed hybrid altogether. Being the only pet also means that he will get your undivided attention. He is affectionate and loving with his family, and loves a hardcore afternoon snooze most days. He loves human companionship, but he is not over needy or anxious without you around. They usually inherit the hippopotamus muzzle. This means he will probably inherit the larger-than-life muzzle that really does look like a wrinkly hippo face. Scientific studies have shown that the Labrador can now blame his bottomless pit of a stomach on a missing gene. He may or may not inherit this genetically mutated gene, but either way, you need to keep an eye on his food intake to prevent him from becoming obese. They will be a water baby. If you can incorporate water into his exercise routine, he will love you forever. As we have already mentioned, this is exactly why you need to be an experienced dog owner who can show him the ropes and teach him the family hierarchy. If you find he challenges you as top-dog, correct him straight away, and if you still struggle, then you might need to reach out and seek professional help. He is also a confident dog both in the form of protecting his family and with strangers. Although he will be suspicious and aloof at first, as soon as his master welcomes them into the fold, he will warm up to them as well. If he takes after his Lab parent, he might even request a belly rub if they give off a friendly vibe. He is also courageous and will protect his family and estate if he feels he needs to. Full of love and loyalty, his family will be the apple of his eye. He will always be thinking of ways to impress his master, hoping for verbal praise and cheeky treats. He will always be up for a game of fetch or flyball and will spend hours and hours playing with his family. This makes him a fantastic companion for a family who loves to spend time outdoors, having fun, or adventuring. Being a well-balanced dog, he also knows when to be calm in the home. If you and your family are enjoying a relaxing Netflix evening, he will happily sit back and relax with you. The Lab Pei is a very intelligent dog, thanks to the Labrador passing on his intelligent genes. Especially if you tempt him with treats. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Firstly, he is not very tolerant of grabby, overzealous children. Like the best of us, he can get quite grumpy when annoyed, so he is best placed with older children who will know when he needs his own space. Secondly, because of his Shar-Pei genes, this pooch can be very dominant. This means that he might not respect younger children as being part of the pack or above him in the hierarchy. He needs to be with an older family that has experience with dominant dogs and can handle the potential pack challenges. Once he does understand the family dynamics, he is known to settle very well into family life. Also, many protective dogs have an affinity for the younger pack members, too, and the Lab Pei is one of these dogs. His Chinese Shar-Pei parent is famous for not liking the company or sight of other dogs, so this guy is strictly to be homed as the only dog. He extends this dislike to most other animals, so the Lab Pei really needs to be the only animal in the house. You need to bear this in mind when you are exercising him in public as well. You will undoubtedly come across other dogs and animals in the neighborhood. Socialization is key to minimalizing his dislike towards animals. You need to ensure that your yard is secured so that he cannot escape, but also because he will guard his perimeter. Coming nose to nose with another dog at the gate is dangerous, so remove this chance and secure all fencing and gates. Read through his following requirements so that you know exactly what he needs to live his best life. Feed him a high-quality dried kibble that is both age and breed size-appropriate. Dried kibbles are a great way to keep his teeth clean, as the hard kibble pieces help to break down the buildup of plaque. As tempting as it might be to feed him his favorite treats, an overweight dog is an unhappy one and obesity leads to untold health concerns. Always follow package instructions and switch him to a weight management kibble should he start piling on the pounds. Being intelligent, you should aim to mix up his exercise activities when possible. He will love to fetch and retrieve, so why not combine this with his love of water and get yourselves down to the local doggy lake? As he will probably not like other dogs, you need to keep him on a leash and be able to control him when faced with other dogs. Not only will it make walkies more enjoyable for both of you, but if he comes face to face with another dog, you know you can handle his power. This guy packs a lot of power, so you need to be a strong owner. Socialization is the most important part of his training, not only as a puppy but throughout his entire life. Keeping him cooped up all day long will only reinforce the fact that other animals are the enemy. Ensuring that he meets animals and other dogs of all shapes and sizes in a controlled environment will limit the amount of fear-aggression he displays. Obedience training is also important because of his dominant personality. If you are an experienced dominant dog owner, then you will know how important it is to maintain obedience training throughout his life. No matter how cute and squishy his face is , he needs to learn his place in the pack. It will shed moderately throughout the year and then probably experience a full blow-out during the shedding season. Brushing him 2 to 3 times a week will keep him looking fresh and healthy. Because of his skin rolls, he will need to be cleaned with a specially designed skin-fold ointment that will prevent bacteria and skin infections from developing. How often you do this will be dependent on how many folds he has. His eyes and ears will also need to be cleaned regularly and ensure that his nails are the correct length otherwise you risk paw injuries. Bathing him with a gentle shampoo once every 8 weeks or so is advised to keep him smelling clean. Take a note of the below health concerns that are most common to the Lab Pei and make yourself aware of the symptoms. Minor Conditions. In one of these shelters, there is a possibility that one of them is a Shar Pei mixed with Labrador looking for a new lovely home. Here are some reliable shelters and rescue groups you can contact. Try www. Thusly, their crossbred offspring is a dog of medium-length hair, and not that much of a shedder. It is an adorable pup that is average to low maintenance; in other words, they do not require much extensive grooming. For one, this crossbreed is not hypoallergenic and a bit of a drooler. As such, it is recommended that clothes be taken out of the way so as to prevent the hair and fur is a bit of a chore to clean. To ensure less shedding, one must brush the Shar Pei crossed with Labrador monthly in order to remove excess debris and loose fur, and properly distribute the natural oils. Should your Labrador Shar Pei mix have many folds and wrinkles on its skin, regular cleaning and cleaning of these folds is recommended to prevent yeast and bacteria build up? Do the cleaning of such folds during regular baths. While patting the Labrador mixed with Shar Pei down, you must properly wipe them with a damp wet cloth, while focusing on the following specific areas: Folds on the skin Anal region and tail Eye Region, especially the eyelids As with all dogs, regular brushing of the teeth is also recommended not only for good oral hygiene but also prevention of nasty dental disease. The ears must also be a focus of the cleaning, and must be regularly checked for signs of infection and nails should be trimmed frequently. Note, when trimming their nails need, one needs extra care and precision so as not to cause bleeding and prevent infection. Shar Pei Labrador Mix Health Problems It must be noted that all crossbreeds can be prone to an array of issues from either of its purebred parents. It is also possible, however, that the offspring not be totally vulnerable to these diseases. They are known to suffer from elbow or hip dysplasia. Similarly, they also develop eye problems such as cataracts or PRA blindness. They are known to face skin problems with their many folds and complicated eye problems such as entropion. Depending on its favored parent, the Labrador crossed with Shar Pei have usually been showing to be vulnerable to ailments that affect their parent such as: Eye Problems: The most common problem among these complications is Entropion. Without the proper diet and care, this can lead to taking and, worse, surgery. If not treated at the earliest instance, the Entropion can even cause permanent blindness. Skin problems: Because of its many folds, this crossbreed is prone to skin infections if not tended to properly. Avoiding skin complications means regular brushing and wiping of sensitive areas. Hip Dysplasia: A lot of crossbreeds with a Labrador Retriever parent suffer from this, and the Shar Pei crossed with Labrador is no exception. A focus on exercise and diet high in meat and glucosamine is recommended to prevent Hip Dysplasia complications. This is to prevent complications from suffering from Hip Dysplasia. With a tendency to overeat, the Shar Pei Labrador Mix are at high risk of becoming obese. You must have him do small frequent meals instead of one large meal to prevent bloating. Giving of treats and scheduled feedings must be intermixed with free-feeding of at least once per week. This is to make sure that your Shar Pei crossed with Labrador does not become obese. The proper mix of vitamins and minerals for your dog must be consulted with the veterinarian. The veterinarian will be able to assess the nutritional and essential needs of your dog according to their weight and size. Owners should focus on buying dog food rich in glucosamine or chronodotin, or both. These nutrients are vital in lowering the risk for hip dysplasia. Ask your local pet store or dog food provider for products with these specific characteristics. Here are some examples of high-quality dog food available in the market: BlueLife Food: DHA is incorporated into their ingredients for more significant help in mobility and brain growth In addition, the company which produces this food has a specialty in making all-organic and all-natural dog food. The multiple protein sources from this dry dog food provide a healthy balance of amino acids, supporting muscle development and maintenance. More importantly, this dry food has high levels of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for a controlled diet rich in healthy fats. It is made as an ideal choice for average to large dogs for building their muscle fibers. Its main ingredients, among other things, are salmon meat high in glucosamine , chicken, and real beef perfect for a Labrador and Shar Pei mix to enjoy. This dog food is made with free-range chicken without added growth hormones and steroid to provide your dog with the necessary amino acids which help define muscle tone and fiber. It has fiber from real fruits and vegetables, which support digestion and intestinal health. Not only does this provide an answer for those joints, but it also stocks the fibers from berries and vegetable for their natural bowel movement. SmartBlend One: One of the essential benefits from this Purina One product is its ability to provide a rich and delicious diet for your pup. All dog parents want to keep their furry babies happy and healthy all the time. Whether yours is big or small, avoid giving them the worst dry dog food, and opt for some of the best dry dog food options, such as:. Training and socialization were key to her excellent behavior. She is my amazing sweet girl who has boundless energy, patience and loves everyone. She is very loyal to me and my family and wants to be were we are at all times. She is confident and agile with excellent recall and manners but can show her stubborn Pei streak from time to time. She loves to travel and enjoys swimming and rolling in the mud but is just as happy to nap on her dog pillow at home for hours. And snow, she loves snow and ice more than anything else. She is very good with kids, cats , dogs as long as they show no aggression towards her family , small animals and other people. She is protective when someone adult approaches when we are out of the house but listens well and accepts loves and pets once I give her the command to stop, she has never barked at a child , ever. Even as a 6 month old puppy she sat nicely and let three year olds love on her. She is not a vocal dog unless something is wrong, otherwise, she is pretty silent. She is extremely sensitive to tone, I use my stern voice and that is all it takes for her to know she did something wrong, heavy hands are never good but especially with this girl. She can smell a bit and gets dry skin if I don't use oatmeal shampoo but she loves loves the water so bathing is very easy. She sheds about a 7 on a scale of 10, 1 being the least amount of shedding as possible. She is very food motivated and is extremely willing to please, training was a breeze with her but be careful, the Lab side can bring on obesity daily quick. My girl has had Entropion and needed 2 surgeries for eye tacking, one when she was 6 months old when I found her and another when she was 4. Due to the length of time her previous owners let pass without eye tacking, she struggles to see some things if they are in shadow or reflect light. I love my Pig and think everyone should have a dog as amazing as her. This breed can be a challenge if you don't know how to be the pack leader. Shar Pei's are not for 1st time dog owners even though the Lab mellows out the intense protection desire and stubbornness a Pei has. This mix will still have these traits, just in lesser intensities. It is a cross between the Labrador Retriever and the Shar-Pei. 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. She was tied to a stake in a rural area, and was chronically pregnant and producing puppies. When rescued, she was about 2 years old based on her vet exam. On July 7th we will celebrate 10 years together. Brooklyn is too intelligent for her own good, very sweet, inquisitive, loyal, and loving. I truly believe her mission on earth is to give love and healing. After having her for 2 years I began training her for therapy dog work. She took to it immediately. She has always had an affinity for those injured, ill, or disabled. Our travels have taken us to local hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living, and patients at home on hospice. She has been my partner at work for the last 6 years, with the last 2 years coming to the office with me. She was my "administrative assistant. They are very close. I feel she exemplifies both the best traits of the Lab and Shar Pei. This picture is Brooklyn at the beach when she was about 3 years old. I found him in the street at about 6 weeks old. He was flea infested and had worms so I took him to the vet that day. He is now healthy and happy. He is extremely active, loves to chew everything and has to sleep in the bed with me. I can't go anywhere without him or he whines. I think he is so adorable! He has a curled tail with black on the tip and some dark spots on his tongue, his ears are floppy and he has some white on his chest. At first he hated the bath but now he is learning to love the water and swims at the beach! They were found as very young puppies, walking along the freeway together. They are littermates, but couldn't be more different! Kazu the black one is very loyal, follows me around the house, gazes at me, etc. She's very excitable and has trouble—after 5 years—understanding that jumping when someone comes in isn't okay. She's a very happy dog who even wags her tail when she eats. She's quite aloof and bossy. Her affection is on her terms and she's the only dog I've ever seen who sulks. She does love to play, however, and frequently brings her rope to me, wags her tail, looking for some playtime. He loves to jump and play in the water. He is wary of strangers but once he knows you, he loves you. We didn't really know what to expect with this hybrid, because there are few out there. She has turned out to be a terrific little dog. The puppyhood was difficult, and she displayed typical Lab behaviors. Lucy would chew on everything and everyone! Now that she has passed the one-year mark she is really coming along. Lucy is extremely friendly, loves children and other dogs, and rarely barks. She is loyal, but not jealous, and is very smart. She responds well to both verbal and hand commands, and is a great exercise partner. One negative, though she has the great Shar Pei wrinkles and short hair, she does shed quite a bit. I wish that more people knew about this great hybrid! We feel very lucky. We got him from the local animal shelter when he was 8 weeks old. He was housebroken in less than 2 weeks. He is one of the smartest dogs I have ever encountered, and very affectionate. His only problem is he is extremely skittish. Since he has never been mistreated here, I can only assume it is just his nature. But I am still very glad we chose him. We have 19 grandchildren, so it was very important that whatever we got, it had to be good with them. He has both been great with all from 20 years, right down to newborns. Responsible Lab breeders will test their breeding stock and avoid passing diseases on to future generations. Your Shar Pei Lab mix breeder should provide proof that your puppy has healthy genetics on the Lab side. Additionally, there are health issues which are inherently associated with the Shar Pei skin folds. The unique Shar Pei head makes the breed prone to eye, ear, and respiratory problems. Conditions such as cherry eye, ear infections, and deflated muzzle are common. A particularly aggressive type of mast cell cancer is often seen in the Shar Pei. They are also prone to a type of skin cancer called histiocytoma. Shar Peis should always be monitored for abnormal lumps and bumps. The skin folds of the Shar Pei can lead to a serious skin condition called pyoderma. Pyoderma is a bacterial infection of the skin. While mild superficial cases are common in many breeds, Shar Peis can suffer from severe cases, due to moisture trapped in the skin folds. Hip and elbow dysplasia and skin problems are the most common. Reputable breeders will health test for dysplasia and provide buyers with certified test results. The skin issues can be more problematic, as pyoderma is associated with the Shar Pei wrinkles. Your Lab Pei puppy may grow up to have deep folds or moderate folds. This can determine how serious the skin problems will be. Special care always needs to be taken with the skin, ensuring that it remains clean and dry. The actual lifespan for Shar Peis may tend to be even shorter, from years, depending on health issues and the individual dog. Shar Pei Lab Mix Shedding The Lab has a double coat, consisting of a soft thick undercoat and a dense weather-resistant top coat. Labs tend to be fairly heavy shedders, and they will lose their undercoats in warm weather. Shar Peis, on the other hand, have a much shorter, rougher coat, and are less prone to shedding. Lab Pei Grooming Coat characteristics and grooming requirements are important to many people interested in the Lab Pei. While both breeds have short coats, they differ in both texture and grooming requirements. Labs require regular weekly grooming and will need to be brushed a few times a week during shedding season. However, a Shar Pei has unique grooming requirements because of the wrinkly skin. Health and temperament are of particular concern. A Lab Pei with excessive skin folds will require a significant amount of care to keep the skin clean and healthy. Other health concerns such as hip and elbow dysplasia, cancer, and eye disease should also be kept in mind. Potential owners should be careful not to assume that they will be getting a Lab Pei that perfectly combines the sunny Lab disposition with a few cute wrinkles! There are no temperament guarantees with mixed breed dogs, and the Shar Pei can have a challenging temperament for novice owners. Good training and socialization is a must for the Lab Pei. A Lab Pei may do best as an only pet in homes with adults and older children. Similar Breeds If you love the idea of this mixed breed but shy away from the health concerns or potential temperament issues, there are other mixes to consider. Since they are not as common as some other Lab mixes, finding one may require patience. As these dogs have so many potential health concerns, adopting an adult may be the kindest and best thing to do. Please make sure to consider whether you are able to offer the needed care for this mix. And remember that there may be a wide variety in appearance, with everything from coat color to size. This is true in the case of the Labrador and Shar Pei mix. Animal shelter search engines like Petfinder allow potential adopters to narrow searches by breed. Unsure if your dog is a true Lab Pei? Genetic dog breed tests are widely available. So you may be able to find a Shar Pei Lab mix puppy. However, there are a few things to note. Avoid buying a Lab Pei puppy sight unseen from a seller on the Internet. Your puppy could be coming from a large scale, for-profit breeding operation known as a puppy mill. Breeding animals used in mills are often kept in inhumane conditions and are not health tested for genetic diseases. For more specifics on finding a puppy, take a look at our puppy search guide. Shar Pei Lab puppies are available from breeders, but potential buyers need to be very careful about ensuring that they pick a reputable breeder. It is always best to work with local, small breeders who welcome potential buyers into their homes. Your breeder should be able to provide you with genetic health test results. Not all health issues have genetic tests, but many do. Here are a few curated suggestions for products for Lab mixes like the Lab Pei! Their face resembles very much like their lab parent and they weigh between pounds and standing inches in height. Lab Pei has a short coat that may be dense and water resistant, a trait they inherit from their Labrador lineage. These hybrids are not as wrinkled like their parent breed the Shar-Pei, but they will tend to have loose facial skin around their forehead. The Lab-Pei have small almond-shaped eyes and their ears are set high on the head and are semi-flopped down, with a pointed tip. They have a wide and broad head, while their muzzle tends to be medium in length, their noses are black to dark brown and their tails are set high and are semi-curved. Temperament and Behavior These dogs generally have an even, protective, and loving nature which they inherit from their parents. It has a very loyal and protective nature, making it a terrific watch and guard dog. The Shar-Pei and Labs have very different temperaments. While the Lab is friendly and outgoing pooch, the Shar-Pei can be more reserved, thus the resultant Lab-Pei can be difficult to predict at times. Their Labrador Retriever and Chinese Shar-Pei lineage make an intelligent and affectionate dog that is highly trainable and keen to please its humans. Exercise Adequate exercise and physical activities are recommended for this average large sized Lab Pei breed. He has a high instinct to play and run around so a fenced yard or off-leash spacious zone where he can run and interact with other dogs is ideal. An ideal balance between their physical and mental health should be maintained, and prevent them from being flippant, bored and destructive. They have a short coat, which makes brushing twice a week adequate to remove the loose fur and debris and shall maintain the natural glow. However, when untidy or you may bathe him maybe once months for proper hygiene. If your pet has some wrinkles and folds on their skin, it is essential that these folds be cleaned on a regular basis and wiped properly in order to prevent bacteria and yeast buildup. Ears should be cleaned and checked on a regular basis for signs of infection and nails trimming and teeth brushing as done to other similar pet dogs. Many genetic disorders bypass the hybrid entirely. Lab Pei Dogs may be prone to Dysplasia , luxation, cherry eye, ear infections, stenotic nares, tight lips, malocclusion, hypothyroidism, demodectic mange, oleosa, hot spots, skin odor, etc. This breed may suffer from entropion wrinkles causing eyelids to fold in from the Shar Pei side. Training Give them socialization and housebreaking training from the time you bring them home from the breeders. Train the puppies consistently and with firm hands. Praise your dog or give them treats whenever it finds success or displays obedience. The Lab Pei should eat 2 to 4 cups depending on the size of good quality dry food like kibbles every day. Meals should be small but frequent instead of one large meal once a day to prevent bloating. The Lab Pei dogs have a tendency to overeat and hence become obese. This gives rise to a high risk of developing hip dysplasia and joint problems is a recipe for disaster. Thus they should be fed with a controlled diet with the right amount of calories and nutrition to prevent them from being over-weight. Shar Pei Lab Mix Puppies Your Lab Pei puppy will need to be put on a diet specific for large breed dog puppies to help maintain a slower growth rate. Feed him over several meal periods and ensure he has plenty of toys to keep him mentally stimulated and out of trouble. Typically 1 cup per 6 pounds of body weight should be sufficient for growth of pounds per week. Too much exercise may tire him out but can also result in joint injuries that may plague him the rest of his life. Video: Lab Pei Puppies Playing.
Defining physical characteristics of this designer dog include a strong, muscular body, a short but dense coat, and a short or medium length tail. However, little is known about the history of the Aussie Boxer Mix. Despite its name, this breed did not originate in Australia. The Australian Shepherd hails from somewhere between Spain and France. The Basque shepherds who owned these dogs moved to Australia and then later moved to western America sometime in the 19th century. Aussies were originally used as herding dogs. They are agile and rugged dogs with alert eyes with a penetrating look. Although the Australian Shepherd is incredibly smart and is known to be hard working, they are not the right breed for everyone, especially first time dog owners. As herding dogs, Aussies may try to herd children and other animals, including dogs, cats and birds. The ancestors were capable of hunting big game, including wild boar, bison and bears. Over time, the Boxer has been reduced in size, but they are just as imposing. Like the Australian Shepherd, the Boxer is also a hard working dog. Known for their ability to herd and protect cattle, Boxers have also been used for police and military work around the world. While no one knows exactly when the Boxer Aussie Mix was first developed, we can confidently say that this mixed breed dog is here to stay. The General Appearance of the Boxherd Since both parent dogs are quite different in physical appearance, it can be difficult to predict exactly how your Australian Shepherd Boxer Mix puppy will look like. However, they are usually large and muscular dogs. Here are some important physical characteristics of the Boxer Aussie Mix. Well, you can expect the Boxherd to almost always be a large-sized dog. Both parent dogs the Boxer and the Australian Shepherd are large sized dogs. But how tall does a Boxherd get? These dogs typically grow to reach a height of around 18 to 25 inches. For a more accurate estimate of how heavy or tall your Boxer Aussie Mix puppy will get, ask your breeder about the weight and height of both parent dogs. Other features of the Australian Shepherd Boxer Mix will vary, depending on which parent breed they take after most. A Boxer Aussie Mix has a short and smooth coat just like the Boxer or he may inherit the medium-length straight and wavy coat of his Australian Shepherd parent. The Boxherd comes in many different colors, including black and white, spotted, speckled, merle, golden, brindle, brown and chocolate. This means that the Boxer Aussie Mix can be trained easily. However, due to their high intelligence levels, they will also need to be trained and socialized regularly. Loyalty Boxherds are very loyal and protective of their family. They will always act to protect their owners if they perceive danger. While they are naturally wary of strangers, they can be socialized and trained early to become friendly to unfamiliar people while still maintaining their guardian instincts. This personality trait makes them an excellent choice for a guard dog. They also have strong herding instincts. Therefore, they need to learn appropriate and acceptable behavior from an early stage. Otherwise, they will try to herd family members, including small kids. The Aussie also has a strong prey drive. Although this means playing fetch can be a great activity for them, they may also try to chase small kids or other household pets. They are also skilled escape artists. Therefore, they need a secure, fenced-in yard to help keep them out of trouble. Lifespan Sociability Australian Boxherds are descended from ranch dogs and are naturally protective. Pups need to be socialized at a young age to avoid any antisocial or aggressive behavior. Make sure that you establish authority early on, and make it clear that you are their master, not the other way round. The Boxherd scores well on energy, trainability, lifespan, and sociability. However, some pups have flat faces, making them more susceptible to brachycephalic airway syndrome. They are also known as the Boxer Aussie mix. One of their parents, the Australian Shepherd, is renowned for herding sheep and was bred in America. The Boxer, their other parent, has roots dating back to 2, B. If you are not much of an outgoing person, this Boxer Aussie mix may not be for you. Like many other dog breeds, when Boxherds get bored, they may turn destructive, chewing on your shoes and generally making a nuisance of themselves. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Their high intelligence means they will understand commands easily, and their obedience makes them easy to live with. Their protective nature endears them to many families. However, these dogs have a strong herding background , which may lead to negative behaviors, such as chasing moving objects. Some may even grow antisocial and aggressive. Such behavior may prove problematic when the dog grows bigger. It is, therefore, important to train and socialize the Australian Shepherd and Boxer Mix early in life. If you have children, train them on how to interact with dogs. For example, they should know how and where to touch the dog and where not to to avoid any aggressive behavior. They can get along well with other pets, especially when well-trained. Things to Know When Owning an Australian Boxherd Food and diet requirements for this breed are similar to other breeds. Exercise, training, and grooming are just as important, as they affect the health of your pet. Do not let the food sit for more than half an hour. Puppies older than 3 months should be fed twice a day with hard foods. Always ensure that your dog has a healthy weight. If they start to look obese, cut back on the amount of food. Pregnant and nursing dogs should be fed extra food. Start cutting back on the food after weaning the puppies. On average, every dog requires at least an hour of exercise daily to keep them healthy. Playing fetch, running, and swimming are good exercise options. Some Boxherds have flat faces, making too much exercise a health risk. A dog with a flat face has a shortened skull with a compressed nasal cavity, which makes it harder to breathe. This is called brachycephalic airway syndrome , or congenital obstructive airway disease. During exercise, this syndrome causes: Difficulty in taking in sufficient oxygen Overheating, since the dog cannot effectively control their core temperature by panting You should avoid overexerting your dog in hot conditions, and if you have not yet bought the dog, avoid any puppies with flat faces. Go for pups with a pronounced muzzle. In doing so, you discourage the propagation of the flat face and obstructive airway disease. They understand commands easily, and due to their natural inclination to obey, training them is a cinch. As with other dogs, training is most effective when the dog is young. If you find it challenging to train your dog, try signing them up for puppy training classes. When you adopt a Boxherd, make sure you know their background. This includes asking the shelter worker or breeder certain questions: Ask whether the dog has exhibited any health issues in the past or during its stay in the rescue center. Ask whether the dog has been trained before or whether they show any signs of behavior training. Avoid bathing the dog too many times; only do it if you deem it necessary. Use mild soaps to avoid irritating their skin. Hip dysplasia, cardiomyopathy, and degenerative myelopathy are the more serious ones. Cataracts, bloat, and epilepsy are minor conditions that crop up from time to time. Male vs. Female Females are slightly smaller and lighter than males. Some females have been observed to be more laidback, but do not expect this. The character of each individual is unique, and they do not have to inherit characteristics in a ratio from their parents. The choice of gender is up to you, but if you want to raise pups of your own, you might want to get a female. If you do not, however, the genders do not exhibit wildly different characteristics, and no gender-specific behavior has been observed. Conclusion The Australian Boxherd possesses an unrivaled work ethic, can be easily trained, and is protective of their family. These dogs are perfect for everyone but the most inactive dog lovers. They have a long lifespan of up to 15 years, provided you feed and treat them right. See also:. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Australian Boxherd Highlights The Australian Boxherd is an energetic pup that loves going for a jog or trying out harder exercise like dog agility. While both parent breeds are intelligent and have been used as working dogs, they can easily fall upon reactive tendencies without consistent training and mental stimulation. Daily training sessions that last minutes any longer can cause disinterest and backfire as far as creating progress are key to helping this breed retain good manners and stay on track. It may be a wise idea to also enroll this breed in puppy classes or general obedience training with a professional. Even if there are no outstanding behavior problems, classes can keep your dog feeling accomplished and stay sharp on their skills. The Australian Boxherd can be a good fit for some well-informed beginner dog parents, but experience with high-energy breeds, particularly other herding breeds like the Australian Shepherd for example, a previous Border Collie in the family , is ideal. They can be strong-willed and need stimulation and routine exercise. Without proper stimulation, the Australian Boxherd will grow bored and frustrated — regardless of how much love there is for them. This breed easily develops separation anxiety. Dog parents who are frequently home or able to bring pups to work are a good match for this breed. This breed should receive walks for at least 45 minutes a day. A fenced in backyard to burn off extra energy is a near necessity; without space to play, they can quickly grow discontent. These breeds can be prone to behaviors humans find frustrating, like digging, chewing, and barking when understimulated. They will make it endlessly clear they are bored. Both parent breeds, however, are well known and loved. The Australian Shepherd was originally developed to herd livestock for ranchers and farmers in the western U. Today, many Aussies are still used for herding. However, they can find many other purposes: service dogs, agility dogs, or just dedicated companions. The Boxer originated from two older breeds, the German Bullenbeisser — a dog descended from Mastiffs — and the Bulldog. The Bullenbeisser was used as a hunting dog for centuries to hunt bear, wild boar, and deer; their strong build and powerful jaws were passed along to the Boxer. The breed became known in other parts of Europe in the late s. Around , the first Boxers were imported into the U. Lehman of New York. Boxers grew in popularity in the U. Through them, the breed was introduced to more people and soon became known as the favorite companion animal, show dog, and guardian that the breed is today. They have no breed standard, so their coats may be found in a variation of colors from either parent. This mixed breed will frequently inherit Merle or Tricolor patterning from their Aussie parentage, along with a fairly thick coat. They may naturally be born with a short tail. Australian Boxherd Personality The Australian Boxherd is often good-natured and loving with those they know well, but they also can be overprotective or easily startled. Training them consistently when young will ultimately improve their quality of life and yours as an adult. Australian Boxherd Health While Australian Boxherds originating from responsible breeders are often healthy, there are some genetic predispositions towards health issues to be aware of with this crossbreed. Hip Dysplasia. We're not sure if he is related being that he is the only one with long hair. What an adorable puppy! When he first came to my home he was a bit timid, but after a few days of reassurance and care you would never know it! He is patient and kind and I often find him observing the other pups. He loves to jump and play, and of course enjoys a good chew bone. Hadley loves my big dogs and does well with all the other pups. He sleeps through the night, does not mind his baths and should be easy to train. He will benefit from regular exercise and a loving family. Hadley will be a great addition to any one's home! According to www. It is possible that the name was derived from one of the dog's ancestors. The breed's principal forebears were most likely Spanish dogs that accompanied the Basque shepherds and herds of fine Merino sheep exported to both America and Australia in the early days of the colonies. At some point it probably crossed with Collie stock. It has only recently gained recognition as a distinct breed. Australian Shepherds are easy going, perpetual puppies that love to play. Courageous, loyal and affectionate, they are excellent children's companions that are great with active children. A devoted friend and guardian, for they are naturally protective. Very lively, agile and attentive - they are eager to please, with a sixth sense about what the owner wants. Australian Shepherds are highly intelligent and easy to train. Though aggressive when at work with livestock, the Aussie is gentle with human friends. Australian Shepherds needs lots of exercise and a job to do, as the breed is very intelligent, active and easily bored. They can become nervous and destructive if left alone too much without exercise. They are naturally suspicious of strangers, so they should be well socialized as puppies. Working lines of Australian Shepherds may be too energetic to be suitable pets. Some like to nip people's heals in an attempt to herd them. They are quiet workers, unlike some breeds, which are bred to bark constantly at livestock. This breed is not usually dog aggressive. They have a life expectancy of years. This breed is often sensitive to ivermectin; however, the dosage for heartworm preventive is considered safe. Be warned that higher doses of Ivermectin are also used to treat mange and caution should be taken.
We get asked which size collar would be best for a particular dog breed or types. So here we have compiled a list of dog breeds and their usual neck measurements - and recommended collars. Hindquarters dog collars are available in sizes from XS to Large. XS dog collars fit necks between 18 and 30cm or inches. Small collars fit cm or inches. Medium between cm. And Large dog collars are cm. Airedale: cm inches - we would recommend a comfy Hindquarters large size green or brown fabric cotton dog collar. Brighter colours, like a red dog collar , would work well too. Basset Hound: cm inches - we would recommend a Hindquarters large size brown or khaki soft cotton fabric dog collar. Beagle: cm inches - we would advise a medium sized dog collar in strong but soft and comfy cotton fabric weave, bright colours like red and purple work well. Bichon Frise: cm inches - a small size comfy dog collar would probably be best, perhaps red or blue. Or a small size adjustable harness. Border Collie: cm inches - an adjustable medium size comfy cotton collar would work well, perhaps black or grey. Border Terrier: cm inches - we advise a small size collar made from strong but soft cotton fabric weave, bright purple would work well or khaki for a muted look. Boston Terrier: cm inches - a Hindquarters small size comfy collar would work well, perhaps in red or black. Or a medium size collar would fit too, for a chunkier look. Boxer: cm inches - like lots of other breeds, there can be significant variation according to age and gender and genetics. A strapping Boxer would require a Hindquarters large size dog collar but for a younger slighter Boxer a medium size would work - a comfy khaki collar looks good. Bulldog American: cm inches - a strong but soft Hindquarters large size collar would work. Bulldog English: cm inches - a soft cotton fabric collar would be good, most colours work although red and cobalt blue both look great. Bulldog French: cm inches - either Hindquarters small or medium size collars would work. The medium size cotton dog collar is wider and so probably comfier unless wearing a harness. Bull Terrier: cm inches - a soft but strong Hindquarters medium size cotton collar would be good. Cairn Terrier: cm inches - a small size adjustable washable Hindquarters collar would suit, perhaps in green. Chihuahua: cm inches - a soft XS size dog collar would work. Chinese Crested - cm inches - a soft and comfy XS size dog collar would suit, perhaps in navy or orange. Chow Chow - cm inches - a Hindquarters large dog collar would be good, perhaps the mustard colour. Cocker Spaniel - cm inches - a soft and washable medium sized Hindquarters collar would work well, red always looks good. Collie - cm inches - a large size collar would be best, an adjustable dog collar ensures an exact and comfy fit. Corgi - cm inches - a soft but strong and washable medium sized dog collar works well, khaki and mustard both look good. Dachshund Standard - cm inches - a medium size Hindquarters collar would work best. Dachshund Mini - cm inches - there can be significant variation, most likely a Small or even XS dog collar would work best, soft but strong cotton weave with flex and give is good. Dalmatian - cm inches - an adjustable fabric dog collar in Medium or Large size, red or bright purple would be good. Deerhound - cm inches - a comfy dog collar, cobalt blue looks good. Doberman - cm inches - would require a strong large size collar, maybe black English Setter - cm inches - would require a large size collar. Fox Terrier - cm inches - a small size green fabric dog collar would be good. German Shepherd - cm inches - would require a large size soft but strong fabric dog collar. Golden Retriever - cm inches - a large size dog collar, red is classic. Great Dane - cm inches - a large size dog collar, soft but strong, black or a bright colour like orange works nicely. Greyhound - cm inches - we would recommend a wider soft dog collar, khaki always looks good. Greyhound Italian - cm inches - would require a soft XS collar, blue would suit well. Husky - cm inches - would require a soft but strong large size collar, maybe black or grey. Irish Setter - cm inches - would suit a large size dog collar, bright red would be good or perhaps mustard. Irish Terrier - cm 14 to 18 inches - a medium sized dog collar would work best, green suits well. Jack Russell - cm inches - a small size adjustable fabric dog collar would work well, grey or red are good colours. Labrador - cm inches - a large sized dog collar would probably work best unless you have a small Lab. A black lab suits classic black but also red and orange , brown works well for a yellow lab. Labradoodle - cm inches - either a medium size or a large size would work, orange looks cute - and is comfy. Maltese - cm inches - a small size or XS collar would be best. Old English Sheepdog - cm inches - a large size soft fabric collar would be good, perhaps grey or red. Papillon - cm inches - an XS fabric dog collar would work well, maybe the red. Pekingese - cm inches - small dog collar size. Pointer - cm inches - a strong but soft large dog collar would work, a red dog collar stands out from the crowd. Pomeranian - cm inches - small or XS sizes. Poodle mini - cm inches - a small size adjustable fabric dog collar, red always works well. Poodle Standard - cm inches - a small size fabric adjustable dog collar would be comfy, black or blue would suit most coats. Poodle Toy - 20 to 36cm or 8 to 14 inches - a Small or XS fabric dog collar Pug - cm inches - a small sized Hindquarters adjustable fabric dog collar for an exact and comfy fit, bright purple looks good. Schnauzer Standard - cm inches - a comfy adjustable dog collar in medium size, grey looks good. Schnauzer Mini - cm inches - a small size dog collar would be best, grey looks good and would be comfy. Scottish Terrier - cm inches - Medium sized dog collar. Shar Pei - cm inches - large dog collar size. Springer Spaniel - cm inches - an adjustable and washable Hindquarters dog collar in medium size, perhaps green or red. Staffordshire Bull Terrier - cm inches - depending on individual size, a medium or large adjustable fabric dog collar would work well. Vizsla - cm inches - a strong but soft medium size collar, green is a colour that suits well. Weimaraner - cm inches - a soft but strong large size Hindquarters cotton fabric dog collar would work well, both red or bright purple look particularly good and be comfy. West Highland Terrier - cm inches - a small adjustable fabric dog collar, perhaps in green. Yorkshire Terrier - cm inches - either a XS Hindquarters comfy dog collar or perhaps a small size. Please note there is often a wide variation in neck size within different breeds and types of dog, according to genetics, age and gender. So please take our dog breed neck size guide as a rough one. We recommend you measure your dog's neck before ordering a Hindquarters dog collar. How do you measure your dog's neck? It is best to measure the circumference of your dog's lower neck - allowing space for a couple of fingers - to ensure a comfy fit. Or measure your dog's existing collar when flat, between the two points where it fastens. If you have any questions, please get in touch. When it comes to puppies, particularly short-haired breeds, you should look for a soft collar made of a non-abrasive material. Fabric collars are a good option, and collars made from a breathable fabric that is also machine washable are even better. When should a puppy wear a collar? Even if your puppy is still too young to go outside for walks, getting them used to wearing a collar is a good idea and will prevent any tiny tantrums further down the road! Collars should be worn most of the time, even around the house, but taking it off every so often to let the skin breathe is recommended. Try leaving the collar off for a couple of hours every time you brush or bathe them. Can an 8-week-old puppy wear a collar? Responsible breeders recommend puppies should not be brought home until 8 weeks old, and you can start getting them used to their collar shortly after this. It may be a good idea to let them settle into their new environment before introducing something new, but getting them used to their collar in their second week at home is a good idea. Should puppies wear collars at night? Most dog collars are designed to be non-abrasive, and perfectly safe for pups and older dogs to sleep in. This can also help puppies get adjusted to wearing a collar for the majority of the time. However, many vets also recommend including a contact telephone number, in the event your dog goes missing. Although microchipping has been mandatory for pet dogs since , tags are still a legal requirement and provide a quicker way to get in contact with you if your dog is found, without their microchip needing to be scanned first. We hope our puppy collar size guide has been helpful, as well as our dog collar FAQs! If you enjoyed our puppy collar size guide, you might like our other article, What do I need for a New Puppy? This will affect everything from how comfortable he is eating, to bacteria in the bowl and also has a direct impact on the risk of developing bloat an issue with this breed. Size, height, material and overall design all matter. Read more about the best food and water bowls for Boxers Bed or Mat Boxers love to take over the sofa, make claim to their human's favorite chair or stretch out on the floor. We recommend a 6 food leash or retractable for house training Boxer puppies. You'll want to keep him close to lead him to and keep him in the exact designated area and to have him close to give immediate praise and reward. A short leash is also best when training your Boxer to heel, since his proper positioning is to your left and right by your side. A longer leash, or one that can extend out, is great for allowing your Boxer to run and have some freedom, when deemed safe. In regard to a collar or harness, this breed typically has strong enough neck and shoulder muscles to do okay with a collar. However, if your Boxer tends to launch himself forward or off to the side quite often when on leash, play it safe and get him a harness. This will remove the issue of pressure being applied straight to the neck and instead it will be displaced on a Boxer's stronger shoulders, chest and back. An ID tag is a must. Though your Boxer can tend to stay close and you're on-point in regard to not letting him off leash, it's just not worth the risk. Choose a stainless steel tag that is weather resistant and will be durable enough that the engraving does not wear down. It's suggested to put more than one type of contact info for someone to return your Boxer cell, address, email. The Right Toys It's best to think of toys as tool. Which ones are going to perform to meet the needs of your Boxer puppy or dog? All toys should serve a specific function. If not, you mind as well toss them or your Boxer may already have figuratively done that by ignoring them. And most toys cannot meet all of a dog's needs at one time though some can have a duel purpose. The main reasons for certain toys include: Teething, chewing urges, entertainment to stay busy especially when home alone , and owner interaction. Read more about choosing the best toys for a Boxer Brushes Boxers have short, dense coats that will shed mostly into themselves, rather than leave a mess on the floor. This is great for your house, but not so much in terms of health for the coat itself. Though Boxers can enter shedding seasons depending on where you live , most still or entirely shed minor to moderate amounts throughout the year. You will want to routinely brush the coat from head to tail at least once per week. During times of heavier shed, use a tool specifically to pull out dead hairs. Brushing has several benefits: It pulls out hairs that have shed but fallen back. If these are left, they can block natural air flow. It distributes natural body oils It removes fine dirt and debris Is healthy for the hair follicles, leading to better re-growth fur is in a constant renewal cycle The best brushes for Boxer dogs: For the type of coat that a Boxer has, the best brush will be a quality bristle brush. Be sure that it has a sturdy handle, is sized well for your hand, and has proper tension it won't do much good if it simply glides over the surface. For times of shedding, when you need to pull out any dead hairs, use a grooming tool that reaches deep down, latches onto hairs and brings them up and out. Dental Care Items Of all the supplies you might possibly get for your Boxer puppy or dog, do not overlook dental care items. What can happen: Plaque builds up on a dog's teeth every second of the day and chewing on treats and toys even great dental treats just doesn't get it all off. Within 3 days, plaque starts to harden into tartar. It encases the teeth and travels under the gum line. It eats away at the enamel of the teeth, causing decay and rot. Infection can travel up into the sinuses or even throughout the body, causing sepsis. Decay causes teeth to loosen and eventually fall out. And of course, this all happens comes at the cost of quite a bit of pain for a dog. The American Veterinary Dental College reports that periodontal disease is the most common preventable clinical condition in both cats and dogs. Without proper care, most dogs have some level of periodontal disease by the age of 3 years old; at this stage, there are not enough signs of unknowing owners to take steps other than bad breath yet can lead to damage to internal organs. What to do: Take measure to ensure excellent oral hygiene with your Boxer dog. Brush your Boxer's teeth with a quality toothbrush. Use an appropriately sized, 3 sided brush. Use an effective toothpaste human paste is toxic, look for a canine product that tastes good and works well to remove plaque. Don't be surprised when a good paste does not foam; they are not meant to since dogs are supposed to swallow the product. Offer one effective dental treat each day. We highly recommend Greenies; these are simply the best and are an accepted product of the Veterinary Oral Health Council. Think about using a water supplement that works to kill bacteria and help prevent plaque. Be sure that it does not contain a drying agent and tasteless ones work best. Bathing, Coat Supplies Everything that you use on the coat shampoo, conditioner, spray will either be beneficial to a Boxer or detrimental. You will want to have a really good shampoo that not only cleans great, but does so with the right pH balance to avoid over-drying and without harsh chemicals. The conditioner that you use needs to coat hairs without being so oily that residue remains which can clog skin pores. The coat should be protected with a spritz. A leave-in spray offers some great benefits: It smells great, protects the coat from static, contact friction and outdoor elements particularly the sun. Though, even with dogs that are outside much of the day and are super active, you can't depend on this to keep the nails short enough. If you want to do this at home, we recommend an electronic filer. It's much easier than clipping. Nose - A dog's nose is naturally pretty vulnerable to all of the elements it encounters. From arid air to cold winds to sun exposure. A big mistake is to only put something on the nose once it starts to look really dry or start peeling, because while a good product can indeed heal a chapped or cracked nose, it's better to be ahead of the game and prevent it in the first place. Every month or so, apply a quality nose butter and then keep it on hand for when you need to apply it more often, which is typically in the dead of winter and in during long, hot summers. Paws - You don't want to baby the paws, because they toughen up as a puppy and then dog walks on a variety of surfaces. However, if they become damaged this puts you back several steps and can even morph into serious issues. This is why a quality paw wax should be part of the supplies you have for your Boxer, it's a vital part of year-round paw care. Look for a good wax that allows the paws to breath and is absorbed quickly in just a couple of minutes. Car Restraint or Seat If you'd buckle up your child, there should be no hesitation to buckle up your Boxer. To not do this is to risk his safety. There are over 16, car accidents per day in the U. No matter how good of a driver you are, you just can't guarantee that someone won't crash into you or that road or weather conditions won't cause something to happen. So, of all the possible supplies that you might get for your Boxer, this one can literally save lives. There are some great options that are easy to use, can actually help with motion sickness and are comfortable for a Boxer puppy or larger, older adult dog. Read more about finding the best car seat or belt for a Boxer dog. Basic First Aid Supplies There are a few basic essentials that every owner should have on hand in the case of injury or emergency. If you've ever looked into this, you may have found some pretty extensive lists; and that's a shame because you don't need half of those things. Chances are, you'll never find yourself searching through your supplies as you try to set broken bones; things like this should be saved for the animal hospital. However, dogs do commonly swallow things that they should not according to the Pet Poison Hotline of the ten top breeds that they received calls about, the Boxer places at 8. You should always be prepared for this. Also, there can be insect bites, something in the eye and small scraps and cuts. Read more about which first aid items you should have for a Boxer dog Outer Gear - Optional, Based on Needs Many Boxers do just fine without any sort of additional layers via jackets or coats. However, some don't. Puppies, senior dogs, or those that are ill or recovering may have an intolerance to the cold. Additionally, just about any otherwise healthy dog can need some help during super harsh weather. If your Boxer is having a hard time in the winter and this is interfering with meeting exercise requirements or is getting in the way of house training, you may want to check into this. If so, read more about clothing for Boxer dogs. Supplements - Optional, Based on Needs If you are feeding your Boxer a high quality food, vitamins and minerals are already added to the mix. However, if you are offering a mainly home cooked diet which is great , you have to be the one to add in a complete vitamin and mineral supplement.
One look and an instant calm will probably wash over you. Stress simply melts away. Because Golden Retrievers are notoriously loyal and obedient. They can look silly with their big goofy grins. Or they can look stoic and wise beyond their years with their striking, deep brown eyes. CutenessOverload Everything they do is adorable Just watching your pup go from an adorable average of 10 pounds right when you get them at 8 weeks old to a sizable 70 pounds at the year mark is cuter than anything you can imagine. Or falling asleep in your lap. Or busting your pup discreetly chewing on your brand new pair of sneakers in their new closet lair is the cutest. There are too many cute things! Everything will be adorable and glee-inducing if done by a Golden Retriever pup — even the behaviors that, by all logic, should annoy you to no end. This is a good thing because a puppy this adorable is definitely going to be a popular one. Golden Retriever puppies make friends with kids , adults, and other animals while keeping their trademark smiles on their faces. They are so friendly, in fact, that they may not be the best bet when looking for guard dogs. A Golden will usually greet any stranger, including during a break-in, with a welcoming smile on their face. But they will love you best Again, the loyalty of a Golden Retriever pup cannot be stressed enough; it is strong. At the end of the day, your athletic, big-pawed, adventurous, silly, and loving Golden pup will only have eyes for you. Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue. One look and an instant calm will probably wash over you. Stress simply melts away. Because Golden Retrievers are notoriously loyal and obedient. They can look silly with their big goofy grins. Or they can look stoic and wise beyond their years with their striking, deep brown eyes. CutenessOverload Everything they do is adorable Just watching your pup go from an adorable average of 10 pounds right when you get them at 8 weeks old to a sizable 70 pounds at the year mark is cuter than anything you can imagine. Or falling asleep in your lap. Or busting your pup discreetly chewing on your brand new pair of sneakers in their new closet lair is the cutest. There are too many cute things! Everything will be adorable and glee-inducing if done by a Golden Retriever pup — even the behaviors that, by all logic, should annoy you to no end. This is a good thing because a puppy this adorable is definitely going to be a popular one. Golden Retriever puppies make friends with kids , adults, and other animals while keeping their trademark smiles on their faces. They are so friendly, in fact, that they may not be the best bet when looking for guard dogs. A Golden will usually greet any stranger, including during a break-in, with a welcoming smile on their face. But they will love you best Again, the loyalty of a Golden Retriever pup cannot be stressed enough; it is strong. At the end of the day, your athletic, big-pawed, adventurous, silly, and loving Golden pup will only have eyes for you. Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue. One look and an instant calm will probably wash over you. Stress simply melts away. Because Golden Retrievers are notoriously loyal and obedient. They can look silly with their big goofy grins. Or they can look stoic and wise beyond their years with their striking, deep brown eyes. CutenessOverload Everything they do is adorable Just watching your pup go from an adorable average of 10 pounds right when you get them at 8 weeks old to a sizable 70 pounds at the year mark is cuter than anything you can imagine. Or falling asleep in your lap. Or busting your pup discreetly chewing on your brand new pair of sneakers in their new closet lair is the cutest. There are too many cute things! Everything will be adorable and glee-inducing if done by a Golden Retriever pup — even the behaviors that, by all logic, should annoy you to no end. This is a good thing because a puppy this adorable is definitely going to be a popular one. Golden Retriever puppies make friends with kids , adults, and other animals while keeping their trademark smiles on their faces. They are so friendly, in fact, that they may not be the best bet when looking for guard dogs. A Golden will usually greet any stranger, including during a break-in, with a welcoming smile on their face. But they will love you best Again, the loyalty of a Golden Retriever pup cannot be stressed enough; it is strong. At the end of the day, your athletic, big-pawed, adventurous, silly, and loving Golden pup will only have eyes for you. Fluffy Golden pup on bench Chunky Golden pup running through yard Golden puppy with big ears looking directly at camera Fluffy pup in a basket on grass Scrawny Golden pup in yard Golden puppy in lavender field Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue. Purebred Golden Retriever Puppies Buying a puppy is a big decision. We made that decision easy. Not knowing where your puppy has come from could lead to genetic health and socialization issues, and ultimately disappointment. There are even tons of puppy scams on the internet, some of which even try to imitate us! We believe dogs are not like family — they ARE family! Unlike other puppy adoption agencies in Ohio, we allow and actually encourage you to meet our Golden Retriever puppies for sale before you agree to take one home. Remember, too, that when it comes to getting a puppy, ultimately, you get what you pay for. You get a Golden Retriever you love, vetted for good health, from a breeder you trust. He has a very fun loving spirit and has made our family complete. Marcus and his family are very gracious and great to work with. We would highly recommend them for anyone looking for a Golden! She will be turning 9 months in a few weeks. I had a wonderful experience getting her through your company! So glad I got her. All Rights Reserved. They're exceptionally clever dogs, and can often be found helping the blind, the police, and even rescue services. They're also extremely cute, and the only thing that I find sweeter than a Golden Retriever is a Golden Retriever puppy! Thankfully, people just love sharing pictures of these tiny cute puppies, and here are 14 of the best: 1. Golden Retrievers are born with an adventurous spirit. Playtime usually ends like this. How can anyone say 'No' to those puppy eyes? Cats and dogs don't quite seem to share the same sense of humor. He falls asleep smiling, and wakes up smiling too! This cuddly pup's birthmark makes him even cuter! Who wouldn't want to drive a car full of love? I can't ever take a picture of one puppy without the other getting in the way! My friend's puppy is just too cute for words! Regrets come in many forms. This is a common one in our house! Wouldn't want our baby to catch a cold. Who needs blankets to keep warm when you've got this many siblings? Is this a puppy or a polar bear? Motherly love in its sweetest form.
We are approximately 40 miles north of Truckee, and 50 miles northwest of Reno. Our home is in Maybe where we have several hundred acres. Fortunately, the Forest Service pays taxes on all but three acres. It is on these three acres that our house sits. The middle fork of the Feather River runs nearby. During normal winters, we have five feet of snow on the ground. Wild life abounds, with regular visits from bears, deer, an occasional mountain lion and lots of geese. Essentially, we live in golden retriever heaven. We plan to have only one litter a year. We intend to stay small because we want to provide all of the necessary attention to each litter to ensure the best behaved and socialized puppies possible. This is more a passion than a business for us. We own both the sire and dam, and both are on site. Our family has raised ten golden retrievers. Probably more correct, our golden retrievers raised our family. Our goldens have always been an important part of our family, playing key roles in raising two sons. They are "in the house" dogs, they sleep on the floor in our bedrooms, they travel with us on vacations and even go to work on occasion. Just like Mom.Just look in my eyes and try telling me NO again!? If you wish to be put on a list for us to contact, text us at and tell us your name, email and that you wish to be contacted when we get closer to a litter. Puppies are chosen in the order we receive deposits. Please remember even if deposit is made, we will be interviewing you in ensure our puppies go to good homes. These interviews can occur any time and may require more than one. We reserve the right to refuse a placement. If you have any questions, please contact us. Thank you Deposits and payments maybe made via Cash, or Venmo. Venmo user name is N Dedrick last 4 of phone number ; We provide all shots up to 8 weeks and dew claw removal. Puppies from last litter We had 8 — stud was a White English Cream So, what sets these puppies apart from others? First off, we are not a puppy mill nor are we professional breeders, instead we are just a local couple that loves dogs and breed our Golden Retriever females. They are taught all the basic training you can teach a young puppy and are held and played with from birth. This means our puppies will be family ready and very loving when you pick them up. Plus, we offer the new families the ability to visit their puppy quite often before they go home with their owners. We also post pictures and videos of your puppy of each puppy as they grow. Finally, you are automatically enrolled in our messaging group on Facebook, so you can stay in touch or get advice from all our other puppy parents. We take this serious and want the best for the puppies, therefore we reserve the right to screen potential new owners. If you have questions or concerns, we have many references available upon request. Fabulist by Shark Themes. We have answers. No, it's definitely not. For that, you have to look for dogs from puppy mills or backyard breeders. But, we'd advise against that because of the health and behavioral issues associated with the local puppy mills. The Golden Retriever breeder in Reno listed on Uptown Puppies is among the best in the industry and offers fair prices for their puppies. How is Uptown different from other places with Golden Retriever puppies in Reno? You could do a lot of in-person visits to all the other places. But they might not be as great as the brand's online selection. And what would you really know about the breeders on site? With Uptown, you can search through a multitude of quality pups, from highly-vetted breeders and companies, with total security. Are Golden Retriever puppies Reno hard to train? Training your puppy should be easy and rewarding for both of you — just like having a well-behaved child. Given their intelligence, Golden Retrievers easily learn commands and are willing to please. But like all children, they need discipline and guidance. They need to know how to behave and be rewarded for doing so. How big do Golden Retriever puppies for sale Reno get? The Golden Retriever is a medium-sized breed of dog. Males are considerably larger than females, weighing between 65 and 75 pounds on average. The height range for males is 23 to 24 inches. Females will typically weigh 55 to 65 pounds and stand 21 to 22 inches tall. Both genders reach their full mature sizes in about one year or two. How do I know that Reno Golden Retrievers for sale are healthy? This is one of our biggest concerns, and why it's so important that you bring your puppy to the vet for its check-up. Our network of dog breeders puts together comprehensive health checks to make sure every quality aspect of your future pup is checked out. We can be sure that the pup is healthy because you'll receive documentation of every step that was taken. How does Uptown Puppies work? Choose the pups that interest you. Search for a Golden Retriever for sale in Reno. Get answers to any questions you have. What are the transportation options for Golden Retrievers for sale in Reno? As you are deciding what breed of Golden Retriever to purchase, it is important to consider where you will be getting your puppy. When arranging transportation, ensure they are located in the lower 48 states. It may be possible to arrange for pick-up at an airport, but also find out if the breeder is willing to meet you at a location near their home. Do you recommend a specific diet for a Golden Retriever Reno? Setting aside the debate on whether dogs are better off on wet, raw, or dry dog food, we know that protein is essential to a healthy diet for your Golden Retriever. And it's best to feed them foods that are meat-based rather than soy-based or egg-based. Are Golden Retrievers for sale Reno good for apartments? A small Golden Retriever might do OK in a small apartment. In fact, many Golden Retrievers prefer an apartment to a yard. Nevertheless, a Golden Retriever is happiest living with lots of exercise opportunities. How much exercise does a Golden Retriever for sale Reno need? Dogs grow in size and strength throughout their lives. But the longer they live, the more diligently they need to be exercised. It's important to walk your dog at least once every two days or so, and your dog needs lots of playtime to stay mentally sharp. Start with short walks each day for 10 to 15 minutes, gradually increasing the length and intensity of your walks. Why is Uptown the best place to find a Reno Golden Retriever for sale? If you are looking for a puppy, you should trust only those who care about their puppies. No one is better than us at finding the perfect puppy for you and your family. Oh yes! Golden Retrievers are a very popular breed among dog owners because they are well-behaved, loyal and playful dogs. Golden Retrievers are also incredibly cute and have a thick coat which is easy to groom. They are also one of the best breeds for families with children. Golden Retrievers are awesome!
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Commit to training your German Shepherd daily. Be prepared to train your German Shepherd for at least 10 to 15 minutes a day. You should practice basic obedience training, but also include fun training games to keep them interested in their training and engaged with you. Aim for five three-minute sessions daily in the beginning, as a minimum. But start with no more than a few minutes in a short session and gradually build onto each individual session longer times. During each session work on just one or two commands so that your dog learns the right way to perform the command. Ready to start using games during your German Shepherd training? How long it takes to train a German Shepherd depends on many factors, for example, if you have a puppy or adult. It takes anywhere from 8 to 12 weeks to train a German Shepherd to learn basic obedience commands. Crate training will take about a week to introduce slowly and have your dog or puppy go into the crate on their own to relax. But if your dog has had a bad experience with the crate it could take months. Keep in mind that if you have an adult Shepherd who has already lived with another owner or many dog owners then you may have to undo improper training or behavior problems. This means that you have many months ahead of you of training. Some GSDs are aggressive or reactive and it may take years before they learn to relax around other dogs in a calm manner. While other German Shepherds have excellent dog social experiences from the start and can mix in with other dogs on a whim and quickly pick up their training basics. German Shepherd puppies are ready for simple training as young as 7 weeks old. Your puppy is capable and ready to learn at 6 to 7 weeks old many simple obedience commands. A 1 minutes session is long enough for a young puppy. After a couple of weeks, your German Shepherd puppy should know to sit, stay, and down, as well as its name. Although a reliable off-leash come recall usually takes about 6 to 8 weeks of proper dog training. It took me only about a day to train my German Shepherd to sit using lure and reward training. This means, I use one of the best, tasty treats to move her into the position I want, and then reward her with the food. My GSD took about 7 days to sit and wait at doors before barging out, but… She only takes a day to unlearn this behavior if I relax on it and let her out without waiting! Something complicated like staying in place with tons of distractions think cats or squirrels running by might take you at least 6 months to work up to. Keep in mind that German Shepherd training requires you to work in very small steps and build upon their success. You started with basic math, then geometry, algebra, and so on. German Shepherd Training: The Right Way How long it takes to train a German Shepherd depends on how consistent you are and how well you support your dog to understand. You must also consider your GSDs: age — are they an energetic puppy or more confident adult previous training — are they fresh to obedience or do they have some basics under their belt whether you are using the right training methods that are simple for your dog to understand The most effective and easy-to-understand system for German Shepherds to learn is called positive reward training. Using positive rewards allows you to mark the specific behaviors your German Shepherd performs right at nearly the exact moment they do them. Use a scientifically-based program to learn positive, reward-based training, like this Brain Training for Dogs official program. The Brain Training Program gives you step-by-step dog training to help you speed up your success rate and the time it takes you to train your GSD. Have you seen the price of in-person German Shepherd training these days? Harsh punishments and the wrong types of corrections can cause your dog to become fearful of you. Stick with positive dog training, or reward-based training, for a better bond with your special breed. Remember, any lack of training on your part is still considered training! You are the dog trainer and must learn the right ways to train a German Shepherd. Remember… Your dog is a brilliant breed, but you must give them the time and attention they need in order to see the most success. Vary up your training environments When you start your training sessions at home, you probably use a quiet room, turn off the TV, and maybe even close the door to your practice area so that you can pay attention to your training. Then, train your German Shepherd to become slowly used to following your command in those places. Train consistently Training skills will go quickly downhill without regular practice. Skills you once thought your dog knew can be unlearned without consistent repetition. If time goes by and you or your family let the training routine slip, an enthusiastic German Shepherd who likes to jump to greet visitors will resort back to their natural instincts to jump on people. Set aside time each day for specific command training, but also remember that every interaction with your German Shepherd is a training opportunity! Look for training opportunities during your day to get the most training benefits. Use high-quality rewards for high-quality learning Find out what treats really motivate your dog. Some German Shepherds will work for lower quality rewards, like their regular kibble, while others may need more motivation. Ian Dunbar, a renowned dog behaviorist, says that freeze-dried liver treats are the Ferrari of high-quality food rewards. But you can also choose other healthy treats for a German Shepherd if your dog prefers a different flavor. This will only set you back in your own German Shepherd training! Instead, build up in small steps by starting in a distraction-free area with your basic German Shepherd training commands. Even in the most desirable situations, your dog may struggle with particular commands. When you see your German Shepherd forget a command, go back to square one — the beginning of the command — and work on the training… again. Try using your phone to record you training your dog. Online training is easy and simple to follow, and the step-by-step directions guide you through the correct ways to train your German Shepherd with the best results. I use the Brain Training for Dogs program for the step-by-step online training from the comfort of home that has a done-for-you schedule. Instead, set up a daily training schedule to help you train them quickly. You can speed up training by using the right methods to train a German Shepherd… Which is positive, reward-based training. If you get tired of training, take a short break with these fun ways to make a German Shepherd happy. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Imagine you knew how to discipline a German Shepherd puppy the right way so that your bond with your dog grew instead of fell short! Learn how to communicate with your pup and get the behaviors you want using these simple and easy methods for training a German Shepherd puppy. They may become frightened of you or fear your presence, depending on how severe your discipline is. Anxiety may even develop with too much punishment or useless corrections. Training a German Shepherd puppy at 8 to 12 weeks old? Yes, you can! A GSD pup of 8 to 12 weeks of age or older still needs positive reinforcement for the best behavior changes. Disciplining your GSD should not involve hitting, kicking, slapping, intimidation, or yelling. Do you want your German Shepherd puppy to stop their unwanted, bad behavior and turn into the sweet angel you want them to be? You can easily learn how to train a German Shepherd puppy if you work smarter… Not harder! Start early and remain consistent with your expectations. Training a German Shepherd means knowing what to do when your puppy acts up. Shepherd pups are one of the smartest dogs on the plant and learn quickly what you expect of them. But the best way to learn how to train a German Shepherd puppy at home is to work on your own behavior first. You should show them what behavior is unacceptable in your house. This means that you must stay consistent when responding to their behavior. For example: If your pup jumps on you and you redirect their attention to a toy to chew on instead. But, then your pup jumps on your friend and your friend lets them and you say nothing. This makes it likely that your dog will jump on whoever they feel like in the future. Use reward-based training. Use reward-based German Shepherd training techniques to get the quickest results. Reward-based training helps your puppy recognize when something is a bad choice source. When your pup performs what you ask, offer a tasty treat and words of praise. For example: Have your pup sit when you are by the front door getting ready to go for a walk. This teaches them that when they behave, they are more likely to get what they want. The best way to train your German Shepherd is by following a fun, engaging program that teaches not only the basics but covers problem behaviors, too. Sound difficult? It teaches you how to get your pup to learn positive behaviors. You can also have fun right at home with these games for German Shepherd puppies. Offer your puppy another option when they begin jumping on you for attention. Think about what your puppy is trying to get when engaging in jumping and bad behavior to determine when to ignore them. When your pup jumps on you when you come home, they probably want your attention. Withholding your attention when they are acting out shows them they need to act differently to get your approval source. Instead, offer them pets and praise when they have all 4 paws on the floor. You can also place them behind a puppy gate until they learn not to jump in order to avoid them scratching or nipping house guests when they arrive. After you teach them their basic obedience, ask them for a competing behavior like a sit or down when they begin to jump. Always remember to reward the behavior you want to see again! Ultimately, your puppy learns that good behavior earns your affection and attention more quickly. Your dog soon understands that they get nothing from you when they act badly. Here are some great commands for a German Shepherd that you can work on training. Redirect bad German Shepherd puppy behavior. Does your puppy jump, nip, chew, bite, or dig and you want to know the right discipline? The noise and disapproving tone distract your dog from bad behavior source. Showing them a favorite toy. Offering them another option you would like that is more constructive. You want to remember to watch out for: If your dog chews inappropriately on a pair of expensive shoes, get their attention by making noises or calling them to you and immediately offer the correct approved chew item. If you know your dog tends to bite you during play, have a toy nearby you can show them that you want them to bite instead of your arms. If you know they get wild and crazy in the evenings, have a list of these easy German Shepherd brain games to distract them and funnel their energy. Use time-outs appropriately when training a German Shepherd puppy. When your dog engages in bad behavior, remove them from what is causing the unwanted behavior. Put them in a different environment that is more calming and quiet instead. Respond immediately to the bad behavior and use the same routine every time to maintain correct discipline. Time out should: Not be done with force or yelling. Not be in a closet or other dark, scary area. Work to calm your puppy down, not frighten or stress them. Give your puppy a break from over-excitement. Not be a long punishment. Timeouts are generally recommended for only 1 to 2 minutes for puppies. Also, remember that closed doors can cause anxiety in dogs, so use a reliable pet-safe baby gate so that your puppy knows that you are still nearby. Remember, when training a German Shepherd puppy: Time out should not last over minutes. Watch for when your puppy is calm and quiet for a very brief period seconds long of calm. Then let them out quietly, without scolding them. This can cause anxiety. Remember to use a pet gate to separate them from the excitement that caused the unwanted behavior, while still allowing them to see you and not feel trapped. Ignore the unnecessary barking. German Shepherd puppies bark, but there are positive ways to help train them to bark and whine less. When they finally quiet down, even if only for a few seconds, reward them with a treat or praise. To have success, wait until they are quiet and stop barking, even if only for a few seconds in the beginning source. For example: If your puppy barks at joggers out the window every morning pull the blinds or curtains. If the behavior continues, place your dog in another room for a couple of minutes and repeat the previous time-out procedure every time they bark at the joggers remember to use the pet safe baby gate and to not shut a puppy behind a solid door because it can give them anxiety. If they are whining and crying at night, this could be a warning they need to potty. Make sure you read this post to know how to potty train a German Shepherd before you ignore all whining, barking, and crying. If your puppy barks during play they might be too excited and you can offer them a chew toy instead or cut your playtime short to allow them to calm down. Puppies bark for a number of reasons. But it does get easier to train your GSD over time as they learn what you expect. Keeping your pup from nipping and chewing. Puppies have sharp teeth, especially German Shepherd puppies! Puppies are energetic and must learn their limits for playing too rough source. Puppies view you jerking your hand back quickly as part of a game and could also tear your skin. And physical punishment should never be given! Show them what they can chew, instead, such as their favorite chew toy. Have plenty of safe chew toys to grab nearby to give your pup when they get wild and decide to bite you. Always use toys that your puppy can chew and bite to play with — pick from this list of German Shepherd Chew Toys to Prevent Boredom so you have a safe puppy toy that can take their bites. When they stop biting or nipping reward them with verbal praise and pets. Return later to try playing with your pup again and repeat the procedure. Read this information for more helpful tips to stop your German Shepherd puppy from aggressively biting and nipping you. Catch your dog being good and reward them out of the blue. See your puppy acting the way you want? Reward them out of the blue! Keep small bits of treats in jars around the house out of reach of your pup or in your pocket or a treat bag on your waist and use any opportunity your catch your pup doing good to reward them. If they sit and wait at the door, instead of dashing out ahead of you, reward them! Aim for one of these healthy treats that are the best for German Shepherds and pick carefully to ensure your dog stays athletic and fit. Food-based rewards are very motivating when training and disciplining a puppy. Avoid physical punishment and harm. Your German Shepherd is your companion for life. Research shows that physically punishing your dog for example hitting, kicking, growling, or staring them down increases aggression in your dog study source. Never use physical punishment to correct undesirable behavior. Not only can this punishment injure your puppy, but it also ruins your relationship and causes anxiety. It means setting expectations that they understand and staying consistent. Physically hurting your German shepherd will ruin your relationship with them. They will lose their trust in you and begin to avoid you. In the worst case, your dog could develop anxiety disorders, health issues, or even more problem behaviors. You could even accidentally injure your dog and they need vet care! Use the right tone and body language to communicate. Different commands and body language conveys information for training to your German Shepherd. The different tones of your voice and body movements are better understood by your dog. The actual command words are of less importance to your puppy. Use a direct tone and body language that matches what you want to say to your dog. Even pointing to a missed treat on the ground is body language your dog learns to understand. Still not convinced? Try out your training with this extensive list of helpful German Shepherd commands and watch how much your dog is capable of understanding. Shepherd pups want to please and have order in their home. To do this, stick with your training. Begin with a plan in place and disciplining your GSD will go smoother from the start. Persevere with your training and discipline. Remember that your German Shepherd is highly intelligent and needs your help to get the best from them. If you feel like giving up, take a break from training for a day or two. In order to avoid training frustration, remember that just like you a German Shepherd needs time to learn the rules of the house and new commands. This is true especially of puppies or rescue dogs. If you want to take a break from training and have fun, then include a few days a week of puzzles. German Shepherds are one of the smartest dogs in the world, so training them generally takes a short time. Never discipline a German Shepherd puppy for having accidents during potty training. Whether your German Shepherd is potty trained or not, never push their faces into their potty accidents. Your dog is counting on your leadership to show them the rules in a positive manner. Work on setting a consistent schedule with feeding and walks to avoid potty accidents indoors. German Shepherds are easy to train given the right attention. And they need to understand their schedule by having you teach them using consistent patterns, rather than receiving punishment or discipline. Keep a potty schedule posted nearby so all your family can see it and help prevent your puppy from having an accident. Use your bond with your puppy to your advantage during recall training. Use your positive bond with your German Shepherd puppy to work on early recall training. Especially when there are so many natural pleasures to see and explore outside. When you call your German Shepherd, its obedience simply depends on whether the motivation to obey your commands outweighs what your dog is focused on at the moment. Use this to your advantage! Tips for great German Shepherd puppy recall training: Begin calling your puppy in as many locations inside as you can. Give them a tasty reward or play a game with their favorite toy when they come. Work your way up to a perfect recall by having others try to distract your puppy while indoors. Next, move to your back or front yard with your dog on a long leash like this so they stay safe nearby and do the same. You can disciple them by showing them your tasty treat and walking backward a few steps to encourage them to move toward you. Train the come command in all situations, including the home and outdoors, from the time your puppy is 6 to 8 weeks old to avoid discipline problems later on. Need to train your German Shepherd on their recall? Categories Dog Training German Shepherds are known for their high intelligence, strength, and bravery. And although they are the third smartest dog breed, owners may wonder if this helps with training. German Shepherds are incredibly easy to train. As a highly intelligent breed, GSDs will learn fast and retain their learning with ease. Our guide walks you through all you need to know about how easy German Shepherds are to train. With this knowledge and a little bit of effort, you can have a wonderful companion trained to perfection. Read on to learn more. The GSD has one of the highest marks when it comes to obedience and working intelligence. And how exactly do we measure it in dogs? The term was originally coined by famed canine psychologist and researcher, Stanley Coren. This term essentially measures how quickly a dog learns commands, in addition to how well a dog can retain their obedience training. The correlation of fast-learning and intelligence has some merit. In fact, Coren believed that German Shepherds are just very eager to work and please their handler. After all, German Shepherds are premier working dogs. And because of their excellent brains, these large dogs tend to respond quickly to organized and efficient training. As a result, this is the reason why they excel in so many jobs, from police dogs to therapy dogs. Their loyalty and intelligence combine to create a dog that not only loves to learn, but can do so quickly and most effectively. And of course, German Shepherds are no exception. And while most German Shepherds are generally easy to train, this can vary and will depend on you and the dog. Fortunately, many of these factors are within your control. Training a German Shepherd early on will make it easier In general, the sooner you start training a German Shepherd, the better and easier it will go. A young GSD puppy will likely be easier to train than an older one without any training. And this holds true for all dog breeds. Though puppies might have a shorter attention span , they can still pick up on training early on. Socialization Training While owners might be tempted to skip to potty training or teaching their German Shepherd the basic commands, socialization should come first. There is a reason why you should immediately look into socialization training. The crucial window for socializing your puppy arrives quickly around weeks. During this time, they are more curious and willing to explore or interact. Without this solid social foundation, training a German Shepherd in other areas can be a bit harder. A GSD that is not socialized will generally be more anxious, and they will have a hard time learning when other people or animals are present. Fortunately, socializing a German Shepherd puppy is far from a difficult task. Their naturally confident temperament helps them engage in social encounters from a young age. With some effort and a consistent plan, you should have no trouble with this part of training your German Shepherd. This is especially important if you have carpets or rugs. With their higher intelligence, they can make connections quicker. So you could have success in potty training your German Shepherd from about twelve weeks of age. Still, there will be a learning curve and it can take several weeks before you see results. During this time, accidents will be bound to happen. Simply clean up. They might just not have full control of their bladder. What is important is to show patience and be warm rather than getting frustrated. Yes, cleaning carpets can be a pain. But patience will pay off in the long run with a well-adjusted GSD who is well trained. However, many would argue that these are generally the least important part of training your German Shepherd. Even so, obedience training in general is still very important. And without it, they can develop aggressive tendencies. But it still demands some time. In fact, it might be best to enroll your German Shepherd in a puppy obedience class to lay a solid foundation. But German Shepherds are easy to train when it comes to commands. And you can incorporate this type of training at the same time as socializing or potty training your dog. With their sharp minds, German Shepherd puppies might even start picking up simple commands from as young as seven week. Like the other forms of training, patience and consistency will be key. And lots of treats! German Shepherds may be a brilliant dog, but a reward will always go a long way in helping them learn any command or trick. In some cases, your German Shepherd is adopted or a rescue dog. After all, they are still going to be wicked smart dogs. Instead, what it means is that their training should take into account their history. Just like humans, a GSD picks up most of their habits and develop their personality while younger. If any training is new for them, it may be more difficult. And despite popular belief, an older German Shepherd can certainly change, learn new habits, and alter its behavior. However, you will need to work with what came before. So if you are adopting or rescuing a German Shepherd, it will be crucial to learn as much about their previous experiences. This information might end up being thin, but every little bit will help when it comes to training your dog. For example, if you are adopting a German Shepherd from a friend, they might already be potty trained and all, but maybe they never experienced learning commands. Also, a rescue dog might have had some difficult times in its life. So it might naturally be a bit more anxious or wary, which can make training move a bit slower. In any case, training should not be impossible. It is just a matter of adapting and working with your German Shepherd to best suit their needs. Picking the right method and showing consistency With the right and proper methods, German Shepherds are undeniably easy to train. But consistency and technique will still be crucial factors. These will vary slightly depending on the type of training you want your German Shepherd to have. But consistency and routine will always be in your favor. The less you change factors while training your German Shepherd, the better things will go. Below we have put together a list of some of the most important aspects to include in any training regimen for your German Shepherd. Rewards Instead of Punishment: Dogs and any animals, including humans respond far better to reward than to punishment. Whether this is a treat, encouraging words or praise, or more playtime. Punishment tends only to have the opposite effect and works counter to training. Consistency and Calm: Try keeping all elements of your training as consistent as possible, and designed to put your dog at ease. A relaxed German Shepherd that knows it is training time will learn faster. Maintain Authority: Jumping, nipping, and biting need to be nipped themselves. By being authoritative from square one, your dog will act with more obedience and respond better to your efforts. Inconsistency in rules or expectations will only serve to confuse your German Shepherd. Choose a Good Name: Tempting as it may be to give your dog a rolling, lengthy name, they respond best to short names with strong endings. Your approach and attitude can make training easier In many ways, German Shepherds are easy to train. How an owner approaches training will play a large role. If you approach training your dog with some compassion and understanding, you are headed in the right direction. If you maintain a positive attitude and demonstrate patience, your German Shepherd will respond far better than if you do the opposite. That will only make them more stressed out. Equally important is to work with your German Shepherd, and not train at it. Training may take time and effort, but it will ultimately be rewarding for both you and your German Shepherd. Let us know how your experience was with training your German Shepherd. Share in the comments below if you picked up on any extra-helpful tips or tricks to train your German Shepherd. Here are all the things to consider when bringing these big dogs into a small home. Plus, extra training tips for the special situation. The good news is that German Shepherds are easy to train. However, you will need to train your dog with your kids. In this guide, we go over why the two furry companions can peacefully co-exist. But it does require plenty of work on your part! Post navigation. Calm older dogs are good for this one. Most importantly for German Shepherd puppies, it will give you a chance to work with them around other people, and different dogs from a young age. Settle on a mat German Shepherds are incredibly curious, which can make it difficult for them to relax while out and about. Leash walking — no one wants a large breed of dog pulling them down the street, so be sure you teach loose lead walking and how about some heelwork too? Recall games — Play a game of tennis with your pooch! Calling them from person to person with treats on either side. Get started with grooming and brushing sensitive areas — In long-haired German Shepherds, this is typically the case with the face, legs, and ears, which become tangled the most and may hurt when brushed. Remember to brush carefully, do a little bit of brushing on a sensitive area while feeding them treats or letting them have a lickimat, and then brush an easier to brush area. For socialisation, start working on items that are vital to your lifestyle this week, such as if you have a horse and want your puppy to be comfortable with horses, or if you enjoy sailing, having them near water will be important to you. Getting your puppy exposed to new experiences early on can help them accept them much more easily. Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Go to the pub — you deserve it! Remember that settle training you did before, take your mat and get your German Shepherd puppy to settle on it with a nice stuffed kong. Alone training: increasing time alone is important for your puppy. It gives them essential coping skills. Recall — Practise this outside, using a lead, and lots of rewards. Lead walking — Take this outside. Make sure you keep a strong pace going, since German Shepherds enjoy walking quickly, and praise often to keep your puppy interested. Pretend Nail Clips — simply holding a claw, pretending to clip , and rewarding your puppy with a treat is enough. Following on walks — Bring special toys, like the Tug-E-Nuff Pocket tugger, with you on walks to ensure your German Shepherd puppy enjoys hanging out with you. Playing with them will make you irresistible! Week 7 — Training your German Shepherd puppy The 7-week itch! Nah not really. I bet your German Shepherd puppy is doing wonderfully and growing rapidly! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — How about taking your German Shepherd to a city farm, letting them watch from afar and rewarding them for being such a calm puppy? Teach your German Shepherd puppy to stay — this will be a great one to show off at the park, trust us. So, first, take a walk with a dog that your German Shepherd puppy has already met. At first, it may be difficult for your puppy not to get distracted, so keep the rewards coming and try to keep them interested in you, rather than the other dog! Recall — off the lead Make sure you do this in a secure and confined area and bring plenty of smelly treats, a fun toy to play with, and your silly high-pitched voice so you can call your German Shepherd puppy back regularly. Remember, German Shepherds enjoy learning! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — maybe take your German Shepherd for a swimming lesson? Practice exercises in different locations — how about a train station, or in a shopping centre or mall? Teach a hand target — This is a favourite among pups and their owners. Hand Targeting or touching is the foundation for additional trick behaviours like leg weaving and closing doors. Introducing nose work to your puppy — We mean it when we say your German Shepherd puppy has a better nose than you! Play a game of hide and seek with their favourite toy to bring out those excellent search skills. Looking for more great puppy training tips? Check out our overview of when to start teaching your puppy anything , next. It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now. Aug 11, Share German Shepherds are typically easy to train. They are brilliant, devoted dogs. Typically, these canines can quickly pick up the meaning of commands and are more than willing to listen to their owners. However, there are many misconceptions about what training a German Shepherd should look like. Many dog organizations and dog trainer organizations no longer recommend dominance training theory for this reason. Instead, German Shepherds need to be trained using positive reinforcement. The bond between a German Shepherd and their owners is essential. Therefore, training should revolve around that bond and seek to encourage it. When you train a German Shepherd correctly, the process should be fun and straightforward. These intelligent dogs want to follow commands and please their family, making training relatively easy. Each dog is different and will struggle and thrive in different areas of training. Some dogs may accomplish specific commands quickly and then have trouble with another one. You should feel free to slow down and speed up as necessary. If your dog masters a command, there is no reason to linger on it for longer than necessary. If your canine takes a bit longer to catch on to another command, feel free to take as long as they need to master it! German Shepherds need a strong foundation if training is going to work! That said, training a German Shepherd on all the basics usually takes about 8 weeks. Not every dog will meet this timeline, however. These intelligent dogs need constant training to stay happy and healthy. Otherwise, they may try to find their own mental stimulation, which usually involves destructive behavior. You should commit to training your dog throughout their whole lifespan. Otherwise, a German Shepperd is not the best breed for you. If you seek out the correct help, German Shepherds are often easy enough for nearly anyone to train. They are willing to take part in training and intelligent enough to learn most commands quickly. They are not an easy breed to care for, even though they can be trained efficiently. They have many requirements that can be hard for a new dog owner to meet. For instance, they are incredibly active. German Shepherds are working dogs, through and through. They need to be out and about for hours a day. Without the proper exercise, they can become destructive and reactive. Furthermore, their extreme intelligence means that you will need to provide plenty of mental stimulation. Training is an excellent way to accomplish this, but puzzle toys and canine sports can also be good options. These dogs need to be brushed at least every other day, although every day is best. Their coats shed frequently, and they need regular brushing to keep them clean. This breed is usually easy to potty train. German Shepherds are intelligent and take to just about any training. They are also large dogs, which means they have large bladders when puppies. Smaller dogs are notoriously difficult to potty train because they need to use the bathroom frequently. Their bladders are just so tiny! Luckily, German Shepherds do not fit into this category. That said, they are still puppies, and the easiest way to potty train them involves taking them outside on a regular basis. You should never delay training a German Shepherd. Most high-quality breeders will start training their puppies before they even adopt them out. German Shepherds like training, even as puppies. They will feel much more comfortable learning the rules of the house right away. Start with the basics and keep the sessions short. You only want to train your pup for a few minutes at a time, as puppies can get overwhelmed and bored. They have short attention spans, just like human children. Socialization and More Socialization! You need to introduce your German Shepherd to as many people, places, and pets as possible. Otherwise, they can be territorial and aggressive as adults. A well-socialized German Shepherd is a confident German Shepherd. We highly recommend puppy training classes for this reason. They are safe places to socialize your puppy with other people and dogs. They need more than an hour-long class once a week. You should plan on training your German Shepherd for about 10 minutes, twice a day, at least. Many dogs benefit more from three or four sessions a day, especially when younger and a bit more rambunctious. These training sessions help your dog master commands, as well as keep them entertained. Training sessions for your German Shepherd should continue for their entire life. You may be able to cut back to one session a day for older dogs, but you should never remove them altogether. German Shepherds love training and benefit from the mental challenge well into their senior years. These dogs were not made to lie around all day without a job. Giving them something to do, like training, is vital to their wellbeing. The journey means more for these dogs than the destination. Final Thoughts German Shepherds were bred to be trained. Due to their high intelligence, they can easily understand commands. They are responsive to their owners because they want to make you happy! Training should focus on building your relationship with your dog, as this is what makes the German Shepherd obedient. Training should begin as soon as you adopt your puppy. Training is a lifelong activity for German Shepherds. It keeps their brains active and prevents them from needing to find their own fun. Many destructive behaviors in this breed are linked to a lack of mental or physical exercise. Otherwise, they can become incredibly territorial. Training and socialization should go hand-in-hand. Featured Image Credit: marcin jucha, Shutterstock Contents. To train a German Shepherd puppy dog you must be consistent, kind and clear. German Shepherd dog puppies are divinely cute and for a reason! Just like babies are cute, puppies will win your heart even after destroying your favorite pair of shoes or that expensive carpet! Making sure you use them will start you on the right side of training and pave the road for you to get an obedient dog. The good news is that you do not need any special equipment to have an obedient GSD puppy. All you need is love and treats. The most important German Shepherd puppy training tip is socialization. Some vets will tell you to keep the pooch inside until the full set of vaccines is completed. Unfortunately, if you do keep your pooch safe inside until he is months of age, his socialization period will have closed forever and your chance to raise a friendly and confident dog drops significantly! That said, it is ultimately your decision whether you want to take the risk to take him outside or not. Most large US cities do not have too many disease problems and taking your puppy to a class where the trainer checks that every puppy has had the first set of shots is mostly safe. However, if you leave in a rural area, make sure there is not an outbreak of a disease that can affect your pooch. Of all the German Shepherd puppy training tips, I suggest you really think this one through. As a dog trainer, I recommend you find a safe puppy socialization class because this developmental period is critical to prevent behavior problems in the future. Apart from that, you also need to socialize your puppy daily on your own, this link will explain the process and give you a list of things to check as you go! Tip 2: Teach your German Shepherd puppy to use his mouth properly. You may have noticed that your German Shepherd puppy likes to chew on your shoes, toys, boxes, carpets, pillows, your hands…well, pretty much everything! Before you loose your mind and all your precious possessions let me tell you that this is normal puppy behavior. At this age dogs explore everything with their mouths and even though annoying, it is a great time to teach your pet what is appropriate for his mouth as well as how to soften the bite. The reason German Shepherd dog puppies have sharp teeth is because they are capable of learning how much or how little pressure to apply when biting different things. This is good news! To train a German Shepherd puppy to do this follow this link! Tip 3: Potty train your German Shepherd puppy the right way. Right around now you are also probably dealing with potty training, the best German Shepherd puppy training tips for potty training are outlined below. You should know how many times, and when to take you puppy out. I am sure you have heard all sorts of things against the use of food for training. To do this, you need to find the things that your dog likes most and use them as rewards. Food will be one of them, so use it. But also use anything else, like walks, petting, play time, toys, etc. So, of all the German shepherd puppy training tips here, I don't want to hear any excuses for this one! Done the right way, your pooch will respond to your command even when empty handed. Hope my website is helping you better understand and train your dog. Do you want to help? Be a modern philanthropist through Patreon. This is a hard concept to understand for us, clever human beings. When we learn something new, we can very easily generalize the concept to any situation, that is what makes us creative creatures. Fortunately, you have a German Shepherd puppy, they are clever and chances are they will need less repetitions than the average breed. To help you out on this matter, this link will take you to a step-by-step guide to train a reliable command. Tip 6: Train your German Shepherd puppy to ask for permission. Dog commands and fun and useful and you can probably find hundreds to teach your GSD. This one though - Ask for permission - is technically not a command, because you will not ask your canine to do it every time, instead you want to teach him to do it on his own every time the occasion requires it. Take time to do this with your puppy, it will be worth it! This is another one of the most important German Shepherd puppy training tips because a dog that asks for permission is an obedient and safe dog. To prevent a dog from jumping on people it is imperative to teach that same dog not to jump when he is a puppy. If he jumps again, then ignore again. When I say ignore, I mean it! No eye contact, no pushing or kneeing…nothing. Keep turning around if you have to. Pulling on the leash is another of those dog behaviors that people think come out of the blue, but actually they happen because there was never formal training done. To prevent pulling on the leash all you have to do is make sure your puppy understands that he gets rewarded food, petting, attention, verbal praise, keep on walking, etc. Pay close attention to what he does during those first few walks together and make sure you reward him for staying close to you! Got any German Shepherd puppy training tips to share with us? Tell us about them here! Those ideas came from research done in wolfs in captivity and have now been debunked by new research done in wolfs in the wild. The new research says that you need to be a good leader, kind of like a parent. Alphas are most often the parents of the group. Provide shelter, food, safety and limits. This article tells you more about it! Tip The best German Shepherd puppy training tip is… Reward good behavior and ignore bad behavior. This rule is amazing and will work wonders, besides it is really easy to apply, all you have to do is pay attention to your German Shepherd puppy and reward the good things he does. You need to figure out what the reward is and remove it. For example, when a dog is laying down, it is harder to bark. This Form cannot be submitted until the missing fields labelled below in red have been filled in What is your DOG's name? Please note that all fields followed by an asterisk must be filled in. Learn how to train a German shepherd properly with Pawp's top tips. German shepherds are one of the most intelligent breeds out there, which is why you spot so many of them working alongside policemen, helping out TSA at the airport, and much more. Their high intelligence paired with their keen sense of smell make these pups excellent crime-fighting sidekicks, to say the least. Hundreds of years ago, German shepherds were bred in Germany and originally used to herd sheep and protect them from potential predators. Just make sure you have a large backyard or frequent dog parks enough to keep this active breed satisfied. If you're wondering how to train a German shepherd and have no clue where to start, check out this easy guide. How to train a German shepherd: 5 tips 1. Otherwise, your German shepherd could have unforeseen health issues or other ailments due to cross breeding or a lack of care from an early age. Since German shepherds are bred to be protectors and guardians, socialization at a young age for them is crucial. Even a few weeks after birth, your German shepherd puppy will be able to follow simple cues and commands from you. Make sure to bring your puppy around lots of friends and family so they can get used to different people right away. This will set them up for success in their training. You can start by playing short and simple games with your puppy. Whether you pick up some smart toys that will keep your puppy entertained or take them to different environments to play fetch, keeping them occupied and learning is key. This will help instill a sense of confidence in your dog, which will set them up for more success in the future. At three to nine months of age, you can teach your puppy commands like sit and stay. Your dog will be eager to learn and impress you. Treating your dog with kindness will help them keep up with their confidence throughout their lives, which will make them a stronger dog in every way possible. Maybe even take a road trip with your pup where they can run free and stretch their legs as much as possible. Anything you can do to keep up the positive reinforcements will benefit your German shepherd for the rest of their life. Training your new dog? Continue impulse control, obedience, and more Before the age of two or three, your German shepherd should be completely out of puppy mode and operating as an adult canine. That means the skills and tricks you have instilled during puppyhood should continue to be sharpened as the dog matures. At this time, you can teach your dog scent work and training if you so desire. Make sure to keep your dog motivated by introducing new challenges, whether that comes in the form of new toys, new games, or anything you can think of. More Articles.
Yes, email me when puppies become available. Message sent. Oregon Goldendoodle Puppies for Sale Yes, email me when puppies become available. Why buy a Goldendoodle Puppy from Idaho? Welcome to Power Goldendoodles. We produce healthy, well-socialized and beautiful, quality puppies. We are a Northwestern breeder who services hand-delivery to states surrounding Idaho. We are are a real business, professional and full-support. We are glad to partner with you on this journey of finding the perfect Goldendoodle puppy. We are able to hand-deliver to most Oregon locations. We have a handful of delivery options for you. We are friendly and helpful and can't wait to hear from you. Our Goldendoodle Puppies We interview all of our families. We are transparent and accept live video conferences walking through our home and showing you how we raise them. We protect our goldendoodle puppies from dangerous diseases. We know genetics. We health-test our dogs before breeding. We are highly professional, knowing how to breed different generations and sizes. We know how to care for the health of our puppies with professional veterinarians that partner with us. We give top care to our Mother dogs, who are never retired and never rehomed. All of our dogs are fed the top quality feed available with supplements during pregnancy and whelping. Our mothers bounce back from pregnancy, fit and healthy. We live in beautiful Boise, Idaho. Both of us were raised on farms and raising animals comes second nature to us. In fact, both of our retired parents are also breeders. We often partner with them to raise our foundation dogs for our breeding program. We enjoy the puppies and dogs so much, that we couldn't imagine life any other way. Please reload Goldendoodle Puppies Power Goldendoodles powergoldens. With so many goldendoodle breeders around, the potential options can be dizzying. Our mini Goldendoodle parents here in Oregon go through some extensive health-screening in order to be cleared to be part of our program. First, they have a genetic panel done to see if they are at risk of passing on any inheritable diseases or negative traits. If they clear this, then we screen their hips, elbows, patellas, hearts, and eyes. This is because these traits are highly inheritable, so we want to make sure our mini Goldendoodle parents are healthy and strong, so that their mini Goldendoodle puppies have the best chance of being healthy and beautiful. Both GANA and Gooddog have particular standards that mini Goldendoodles need to pass in order to be considered for breeding, and this is an important standard to uphold. There are also countless other traits that can be passed on, even things such as separation anxiety or other behavioral traits. Early exposure - to a certain extent - helps our mini Goldendoodles become more familiar with the world around them, which will help them cope with fear responses. As Goldendoodle breeders, we take our jobs very seriously, because we know that we do more than just having puppies. We yearn for our mini Goldendoodles to flourish and thrive in Salem, Oregon, so we strive to be the best mini Goldendoodle breeder at making that happen. You can head to the heart of Oregon state, and enjoy a nice scenic drive over the mountains. We typically do puppy pickup in Madras, Oregon, but we might be able to meet your closer to Salem with your mini Goldendoodle to help with particular circumstances. We currently have two mini Goldendoodle litters planned over the next year; both will be a Brownie x Rosie pairing. You can fill out an application for a mini Goldendoodle puppy for Salem, Oregon , or reach out to us if you have any question or thoughts. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Happy Valley Oregon and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted! Ready for forever homes October 5th. Puppies will mature to weigh around 25 pounds full grown, they will come with shots and deworming up to date, star.We have 1 male and 2 females left in our F1B litter. Here at Home Grown Puppy we understand that bringing a n.Mom is 45lbs, dad is 22lbs. Crate and potty trained. You will absolutely love these adorable and cuddly puppies. Family raised and loved! Vet checked and have first vaccinations. F2, Medium size lbs. They are.They are F1b Goldendoodles. The mom is a registered Standard Poodle and the Dad is a first generation Goldendoodle. I have just 2 puppie.They were born July 12 so they are ready for their new homes! The puppies are all super gentle as they've been handled a lot! Goldendoodle puppies - 5 girls and 3 boys available. Low to no-shedding coat and hypoallergenic. Parents are Goldendoodle X Standard Poodle. Will be around 50 to 55lb. Please feel free to check our per.Here at Home Grown Puppy we understand that bringing a.We have 7 females and 1 male. They are healthy, playful and eating well. They are dewormed and have their first shots. You are welcome to come me.Only Males Available. Weight: pounds full grown Please call or text
They have black and fawn pups for sale. They have a friendly family oriented breeding program for their loving pups. Most of their pups have great personalities since each receive love and care. They screen them for genetic defects and only breed those quality pups. All pups receive their first shots, dewormed, and groomed. They are prepared for adoption to their forever home. Whether you are on the east or west side of Montana, Raize Pugs is one of your best options for buying healthy pug puppies. You can find pug puppies for sale from Raize through their Facebook Page. See their customer reviews and the photos of their lovely pups. They also offer a lifetime support for all their small breed pugs for sale. If you buy it from an AKC registered breeder, expect a high price but for quality pug puppies. This is similar price for those puppies groomed for dog shows. All puppies you buy from a trusted breeder are in good health and temperament. These puppies can socialized with other dogs and animals. Are Pug Puppies Expensive in Montana? The price of a purebred pug puppy differs from state to state. But you can expect to pay a higher price for AKC quality puppies for sale in Montana. There are various reasons why they are costly, not just in Montana but to all states. The below are the reasons: Pedigree breed of dogs Most puppies were delivered through C-section There is a high demand for them Most moms of these quality puppies require extensive care Veterinary services needed to maintain their health is costly Despite these things, a lot of people still like to have this AKC quality pug puppies. How to choose the best pug puppy in Montana? This toy breed is clever and loyal making them adorable to have. But you need to know the essential factors to choosing the right puppy in Montana. To guide you on that, the below are some things you need to do: You can contact a local pug dog club in Montana to get a referral or a list of reputable breeders. You can also go to the Pug Dog Club of America to get advice. Try to see the parents of the pug puppy. Ask the breeder if they can show the parents to you. Observe the conditions of the place where the pugs are staying. See their health record and observe the physical conditions of the pug puppy. If it is, that means the pug puppy is healthy and well groomed. It also tells the health condition of the pug puppy. How to choose a reliable Pug Breeder in Montana? Most pug breeders have a passion to care for their pups. Offers a health guarantee An honest dog breeder has nothing to hide from you. They can confidently issue a health guarantee proving that their pug puppies for sale are in the best of health without genetic defects. They can give you the medical record of the pup along with a puppy pack. Issuance of a bill of sale A trustworthy buyer will issue a bill of sale to you once you buy a pup from them. This is like a contract stating all the responsibilities of both sides for the transaction done. This is one good practice for most breeders since it tells you they are willing to take accountability on their end. Deworming is also important and must be part of preparing the pug puppy for sale. Pug Parents must be healthy To ensure the litters are healthy, the breeder must provide a health clearance for the pug parents they have. If they can show you this, then you can trust them. This is a good way for you to also know if the pug is purebred or a mixed breed. Allows physical viewing A reliable pug breeder is also confident in letting you see physically their pug puppies. They must have a physical shelter or barn for breeding their pups. You can better judge the personality and health of a pup if you see them on site. Follows the right age for selling a litter The right age for a litter to be separated from their mom is when they are 8 weeks old. If the buyer sells them at a younger age, that means they are not following the best practices. A litter must have enough time to mingle with their mom and other pups for socialization. They also still need the breast milk of their pug parent at a younger age, so that must be observed. They can answer all your inquiries Most of all, a reputable pug breeder in Montana is confident in answering all your inquiries about pugs. That is essentially all related questions to caring for and breeding pugs. Knowing that they are in the industry for quite some time, that gives you the idea that they know the best practices. Takeaway We hope you enjoyed reading the article and that it helped you find the best pug puppies for sale in Montana. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to anyone above. They are more than willing to help you get the best AKC quality pug puppies in Montana. Our staff are avid fans and dedicated owners of Pugs. We hope to answer all the questions you have about Pugs. Just read and enjoy. Feel free to share if you find it valuable to others! Best regards, Any pure-bred dogs are pretty expensive. The same goes for Pugs. There are also other aspects to consider when it comes to deciding the price of a dog. A pure-bred, genetically tested pug in Montana state would cost around a Thousand Dollars. This is an average price for a normal purebred Pug from a reputable breeder. Why are pure Pug puppies expensive in Montana? The prices do vary from state to state. They are also expensive because they are a pedigree breed, have small litters, will often need a costly C-section to give birth, can have complications during and after pregnancy, and are in high demand. This means the breeders can charge high amounts, plus have expensive vet bills to pay for. How do I find a good Pug breeder In Montana? Finding a good Pug breeder in Montana is like any other state. There are certain foolproof ways to do it and all of them require you to do thorough research. There are other ways such as You can ask your veterinarian to refer to a breeder. You can ask another dog owner about their breeder. You can contact local dog clubs. You can visit local dog shows. You can check out American kennel clubs and their breeder referrals. You can research and look at puppy websites. You can search online for referrals. If you do your research right and study about the breed before getting one, you can find yourself a great pug breeder in Montana. How do I choose a Pug puppy in Montana? Pugs are a small breed with a big personality. Being referred means these breeders have a good reputation. The mother of the puppy should be friendly and healthy-looking. Look at the conditions the puppy is being raised in. The environment around the mother and overall kennel should be clean, cheerful, and well lit. Observe the litter when they are playing. Choose carefully. The best one is somewhere in the middle of a shy puppy or a bully, because he or she will be the most delightful. The eyes should be bright and shining and clear of any discharges. Make sure your desired pug is breathing correctly. Its nose should be free from discharge, and breathing should be easy. The puppy should walk or run joyfully and they should not be limping. Why are Pugs Popular in Montana? Emperors highly valued the breed. The Royal Pug dogs were kept in luxury and guarded by the soldiers of the emperor. Pugs were later bred in other parts of Asia too. Thus, the breed spread outside of China. Even today, Pug dogs in Montana stand apart from other dog breeds because of their unique appearance but they also have a big personality and a silly attitude. The little pugs charm their owners with their full of fun sense of humor. But even though pugs are silly and joyful they are also fiercely loyal and exactly the reason they were adored in ancient China. What is the rarest color of Pug in Montana? There are many different coat colors that a pug can be, with the most common color for pugs being fawn or black. At the same time, there are many different variations of the fawn ranging from a more apricot to a light cream color. The AKC standard only recognizes two colors of pugs, which are black and fawn. In Montana, the rarest color of a pug is Brindle. Brindle is a striping of alternate light and dark colors which is intentionally bred into the dog. All Pug colors are popular with pug enthusiasts, but fawn is especially favored. There are also Silver and Silver-Fawn pugs that have a beautiful grey color to their coat. Also, there are Apricot pugs that have a reddish undertone to their coat. Brindle pugs are very rare in Montana. They are also very expensive. Firstly, because the brindle gene itself is not very common. Second, the American Kennel Club does not officially recognize brindle pugs as a standard color or pattern on pugs. This means that most reputable and responsible breeders intentionally avoid breeding brindle puppies, thus making them even rarer. But as a result of their rarity, people who are looking for unique, exotic-looking pets, find brindle pugs to be very alluring. Furthermore, a lot of people find the brindle coat to be interesting compared to black or fawn. As a result, there is a lot of demand for brindle pugs, which means that a brindle pug will cost you more than other pugs. What is the maintenance cost in Montana to raise a Pug Puppy? Pugs in Montana are not very high maintenance. Pugs are known for their loving, unusual, and easily hand-able nature which makes them a popular breed in Montana state. Due to their small size, Pugs can do well in primarily indoor circumstances, but they do love exercise. Their first-year expenses are a bit extra and more from the rest of their lives. This amount covers all of their essentials, including supplies, training costs, medical expenses, food and treats, grooming expenses, licenses, and a microchip. You just need to be on the lookout for overgrown nails or buildup of wax in the ears, but other than this regular maintenance, Pug puppies do not require extra grooming. Which means they are easily maintainable and apart from their health issues do not require extra care. Over To You Pugs are lovable little bundles of joy. They are great as your couch companion. They are happy in a city or a country environment, they get along with children as well as old folks. They are content as long as they are around their owners and are given attention. Are you looking to get a Pug for yourself? Is it your first Pug? Did I help you with your inquiries? Hope my list of Pug breeders in Montana could help you make your decision easier and find a good breeder, Let me know in the comments down below. Barbara Ogle. Located in Northwest Arkansas Green Valley lovingly raise each litter with lots of playtime with kids and adults alike. All Green Forest pups are born in the home and come with a two-year genetic health guarantee, first shots, worming, thorough vet checks, and a selection of puppy starter items. Green Valley is passionate about their Pugs and always puts the health of their dogs first. No Pug moms and dads will ever be rehomed just because they can no longer breed. They love their dogs and show commitment to the betterment of the breed in everything they do. But how can you spot reputable breeders when you start searching for a Pug puppy? Here are some tips to help you out. A good breeder will… 1. Issue a health guarantee Make sure that your breeder of choice offers a health guarantee. A reputable Pug breeder will write up a binding health guarantee for all of their puppies. The guarantee protects you against any genetic defects or diseases. It shows that the breeder is confident that their puppies are bred according to best practices. This means if you can no longer look after your pup for some reason, you will be expected to return the puppy to the breeder rather than taking them to a shelter. Provide standard health clearances Your breeder should have full health clearances for both parent Pugs. Good breeders often provide some early health-check clearances for their pups too, although some health clearances simply cannot be carried on such young pups. Issue a written bill of sale Reputable breeders offer written bills of sale to all of their new Pug parents. This bill of sale should be signed and will outline all the roles and responsibilities to be taken on by the buyer and seller as part of the transaction. Vaccinate their puppies All puppies should be up to date on their vaccinations before being homed with new families. Your breeder of choice should be able to provide evidence of these vaccinations. Reputable breeders welcome prospective parents into their homes to see the puppies. Follow age guidelines Puppies should never leave the litter before 8 weeks of age. Any breeder offering pups for adoption before this time is not following best practices. In fact, this could be quite damaging for the puppy developmentally. A reputable breeder will keep their pups at home until eight to twelve weeks so that they can be properly socialized and spend that crucial time with their mother and litter-mates. Answer your questions Last, but not least, a reputable breeder will be knowledgeable. In most cases, they will also want to ask you plenty of questions to ensure that their precious pups are going to good homes. We have a strict selection process that takes a variety of factors into account. That way we can ensure that only the best breeders end up on our lists. This way we know that our chosen breeders offer genetically sound and healthy puppies. Health testing shows a commitment to the health and wellbeing of each Pug. Contact information Any breeder that does not offer up their contact information is a big red flag. A reputable breeder will make it easy for you to get in contact with them by providing telephone numbers, email addresses, and they will usually have a well-established website as well. It shows a commitment to breeding best practices. Event participation Breeders who also compete in doggie events are often some of the best. Because these people tend to be dog lovers par excellence. They live and breathe for their Pugs and are proud to show them off in public. They are also more likely to have a high level of breed knowledge — an excellent sign for a breeder. Breed club membership There are lots of breed clubs out there that breeders can register with. These clubs have rules, regulations, and membership fees. If your breeder is registered with the Pug Dog Club of America, this is a great sign showing commitment to the Pug breed. Recognition awards Lastly, we look out for awards! Institutions like the AKC recognize the efforts and achievements of top breeders. The very best will be awarded the AKC recognition of merit award. During this time we recommend getting everything ready before your new arrival rattles through the front door. Your puppy will need: a crate for sleeping and training during the early days quality puppy-grade food a leash and harness plenty of toys You may also wish to purchase a puppy gate if there are areas of your home that you want to keep your Pug away from. This is all about making your home as safe as possible for your new arrival. Make sure anything that could potentially cause harm to your pup is removed. Clear your schedule Having a Pug puppy is a bit like having a human baby. So make sure to clear your schedule and get all of those errands done ahead of time! Once they arrive… 4. Avoid crowds Hold your excitement. That means no crowds. Try to keep the home environment as stress-free as possible so that your puppy can settle in and start to feel part of the family. Crate training is the first step. Lay down a regular routine from the get and your Pug will be good as gold in no time.
How long should puppies stay with their mother? The ideal window is between 8 and weeks-old. They are healthy and adorable, and you want to bring them home as soon as you possibly can. However, the time your puppy spends with their mother and siblings is critical for development, and so it's important to make sure they spend this growth period with their litter. The first month For the first four weeks or so, puppies depend on their mothers for everything. This milk provides all the nutrition the puppies need for the first few weeks after birth. Weaning to solid foods Puppies start to experiment with solid food as early as 3-weeks-old. They still nurse, and mothers continue to produce milk for up to 10 weeks. Some nursing is for nutrition, but it is also a comforting, bonding activity for the puppies. Most puppies are fully weaned to solid food between 7 and 10 weeks of age, although the transition can occur earlier. Learning to speak dog Just as important for puppy development is learning proper canine etiquette and communication as part of a litter. For example, as early as 3 weeks of age, puppies start learning from their mother and siblings to eliminate away from where they sleep, which helps with housebreaking later. The pups are practicing hunting and communication behaviors that they need to perfect. One of the most important skills that puppies learn through play is bite inhibition and not chomping down too hard. If a puppy bites too hard, the other will cry out, signaling that the bite was too rough. Moms will do the same thing or may gently correct the puppies for getting too rough. This is a critical lesson to learn before heading out into the world, as other dogs will be far less tolerant of inappropriate puppy play than Mom! Biting is also a common problem behavior that can land a dog in a shelter or worse later in life. Puppies will also practice a variety of vocalizations and body language, learning to communicate with their siblings and mother. Socialization Puppies have an early critical socialization period from approximately 5 to 14 weeks of age. During this time, puppies are open to learning and experiencing new things, and the things they learn will affect how they go through the rest of their lives. Breeders and other caretakers should be exposing the puppies to novel sights and sounds on a regular basis. Puppies destined to be working or sporting dogs should be exposed to things they will encounter in their future roles, such as sheep wool for herding dogs, a variety of materials and obstacles to climb over for agility dogs, and training scents for future drug and bomb detection dogs. These safe exposures should continue after you bring your puppy home, but early socialization with litter-mates and the mother are also important for building confidence. The puppies will observe how their mother responds to new people and things and then mimic her behavior. If Mom is relaxed and friendly around new people, the puppies will likely be comfortable with strangers. Research has found that puppies who are separated from the litter too early are more likely to show fear, aggression, anxiety, resource guarding, reactivity and inappropriate play biting than puppies who stay with the litter for at least eight weeks. The ideal time The exact time that is best for a puppy to go to its new home can vary by situation, but most breeders and veterinarians agree that 8 weeks of age is a good minimum. Some states have laws in place preventing puppies from being sold any earlier. Eight weeks after birth, the puppy is eating solid food on their own, they have benefited from socializing with litter-mates and observing mom, and they are well within the ideal timeframe to bond with new owners. Breeders may also opt to keep the puppies until 10 or 12 weeks of age. Toy breeds in particular are often kept with the litter until they are 12 weeks old because they are so small and fragile. This gives the pups extra time with the litter, and still has them going to their forever homes in plenty of time to form a strong bond with their new people. And anyone who has welcomed an adult dog into their home knows that dogs of any age will still bond with their new owners as long as they have had socialization with people! Keeping the puppies longer does mean more work for the breeder, since they are responsible for all the puppies during those extra weeks. But if the breeder is putting in that time and effort to give the puppies a great foundation, then the extra time with their litter can be very beneficial to both you and your new puppy. Translation missing: en. June 8, Liz Palika Dog breeders and behavioral specialists feel that the week range is the adequate age for most dogs to leave their mother for their new homes. Unfortunately, in talking with other dog trainers, behavioral consultants and behaviorists, we all agree we're seeing a trend of puppies leaving mom and littermates far too young. A puppy who leaves his mother and littermates at five to six weeks of age, or worse yet, even younger, is going to suffer for that throughout his life. Adopting Eight Week Old Dogs Is Typical The traditional age for puppies to leave their mom and littermates and go to their new home has been eight weeks of age. At eight weeks of age most puppies are able to eat well, no longer need to nurse or eat supplemental formula, are mobile, and are aware of their world. They are well socialized to the people in their household and hopefully have also met other animals in the home. They have been exposed to a variety of sights, sounds, and smells and while they pay attention to these things, they are not afraid. At eight weeks of age these puppies are ready to leave their mother and siblings and go to their new home. Nine to Ten Week Old Pups are Typically The Best Age Since some puppies tend to go through a fear period at eight weeks of age an awareness of the world around them that can cause anxiety , many breeders and new owners would prefer to wait one or two more weeks. I brought home Hero, and before him Bones, at nine and a half weeks of age, because I felt that the puppies at that age were a bit more mature and ready for their new lives. One to two weeks can make a big difference. Other dog trainers and behaviorists agree: nine to 10 weeks of age is absolutely fine. In fact at this age, the puppy is past the eight week fear period, if he had one, and he's a bit more confident now. Developmentally, he's ready to learn, explore and figure out what his new life is going to be. Those who breed toy breeds especially, including Chihuahuas, Papillons, and other tiny dogs, will keep the puppies until they are 11 to 12 weeks of age. These tiny puppies can be quite fragile physically and may be slower to mature mentally and emotionally as babies. A few more weeks with their mother and littermates, as well as the people they know in their family, is often best for them. Larger puppies, however, shouldn't wait this long to go to their new homes. Nine to ten weeks of age is fine but any older could be problematic. Not only do large breed puppies grow rapidly, they are also stronger and rowdy, potentially making it more difficult for new owners to bond with this excited, big puppy who is jumping, pawing and otherwise making life difficult. Also, a week-old large-breed puppy is still a dependent baby; by 12 weeks he's changing. It's much easier for new owners to bond with an eight—to week-old puppy. The mother dog has so much to teach the new puppy ; lessons that will affect him all his life, and his littermates teach important lessons as well. If the mother dog has passed away, the littermates need to remain together. To Learn Key Social and Behavioral Traits Puppies who leave their canine family too early will show immediate behavior problems. They will be fearful of many things and show a lack of confidence. They can also be slow to bond to people or will go the other direction, attaching so strongly to their new owners that they will panic when left alone. The ability to soothe himself, to relax when left alone, is missing with most of these puppies. Biting is common. The mother dog teaches the puppy to control his biting as do the puppy's littermates. When puppies go to their new home, some biting is to be expected, as all puppies experiment. But when deprived of these early lessons, the puppy will bite more and harder, and teaching him that biting is not allowed is more difficult. This important transition time ensures that puppies receive all the appropriate nutrition from their mother. This will support the long term health of the puppy. Additionally, interrupting the weaning process too early has behavioral side effects for young dogs. Suckling, even past the need for milk can be a source of comfort while a puppy grows accustomed to eating only solid foods. Taking Puppies Too Young is Illegal In Some States In 26 states , the age at which puppies may be separated from the mother dog or sold is defined by law. Of those, 22 say that puppies must be eight weeks old before they can be sold. Three states—Wisconsin, Virginia, and Maine—require that puppies must be seven weeks old. Some states focus on the age that a puppy can be separated from his mother. Illinois, for example, requires that a puppy be at least eight weeks old before he can be taken from his mother. The laws vary as to who these laws apply to, with some focusing on dog breeders, kennels, and other commercial facilities. Other laws apply to anyone selling puppies, including those on Craigslist. Before buying any puppy, the more you know the better. If an unscrupulous person produces puppies and knows that he can sell them early at six to seven weeks or earlier and avoid paying for food, veterinary care, or other costs, then that cycle will continue. But if more people say no, then perhaps that cycle of human behavior can be changed. Table of Contents When can German shepherd puppies leave their mom? Keep reading to learn more about when German shepherd puppies can typically be separated from their mothers. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the puppy from its mother for health reasons. If the mother is sick or otherwise unable to care for her young, the puppies will need to be relocated. For German Shepherd puppies, there are several key milestones that must be reached before they can be separated from their mother. Another important milestone is when the puppies are able to socialize with other dogs. At this age, they can begin to interact with other dogs and animals, which is an important step in their development. During this procedure, puppies should get dry puppy chow combined with some water to form a softer, soup-like meal. See that they require you to urge them to consume this new meal, yet many others will start eating fast. They normally begin weaning at around 3 or 4 weeks and extend it progressively until 7 or 8 weeks of age. This is one of the most significant arguments in favor of our German Shepherd puppy remaining with its mother for the longest period of time that is practicable. At this point, the progenitor has to be extremely well-nourished, which will ultimately lead to improved health for the offspring. Socialization As we stated, German Shepherds are social creatures that require the company of their own kind and other animals to feel relaxed and content. Puppies that are removed from their littermates and mother too early may have difficulty socializing when they reach adulthood. The mother starts the process of socializing and teaching the German Shepherd puppy how to speak with its congeners while the puppy is still nursing from her while the mother is still producing milk. The process of socializing a puppy is essential to its overall development. In order for them to become fully socialized, they need to be exposed to a wide variety of people, places, things, and sights as well as smells. The Mental and Physical Development of the Puppy During the first few weeks of life, German Shepherd puppies are developing rapidly, both mentally and physically. They need to be in an environment that is safe, clean, and free from stress in order to develop properly. The mother provides a safe and clean environment for her puppies as well as the nutrients they need to grow and develop properly. The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including the health of the mother and puppies, the socialization process, and the development of the puppies. Bottom Line Now that you know when can German Shepherd puppies leave their mom, you can make sure that your puppy is properly taken care of during this crucial time in its development. German Shepherds are a loyal and loving breed that makes a great addition to any family. With proper care and socialization, your German shepherd will grow into a happy and healthy dog. They cannot see or hear yet, or regulate their body temperature, and they require a lot of tender care from their mom. The new mom is usually very excited and concerned about each newborn, and sometimes overly enthusiastic about chewing off the umbilical cord, which may later result in an umbilical hernia that will take a little longer to close, but is no danger to the puppy. We record the ribbon color and weight of each puppy so that, when we weigh the pups throughout the next days and weeks, we can make sure that each one is gaining weight. Normal weight for a newborn German Shepherd puppy ranges from g to g 0. We take great care to ensure that our newborn German Shepherd puppies have the best chance for a healthy start. A German Shepherd female can be in active labor for 6 to 18 hours, sometimes even longer if she takes a break while having a large litter, and we of course do not leave her side during this time. I stay up making sure that the whelping box which is always in my office or bedroom is clean and dry after each puppy is born, and that the temperature stays constant 86 - 88 F in the room. We keep the temperature at this level for about 2 weeks, gradually reducing it down to normal F by the end of the third week. Someone is always present with the puppies during the first 5 days. I handle the puppies several times a day, as well as weigh them every other day during this period, to make sure that everyone looks and acts healthy, nurses well, and is gaining weight. I usually buy a dozen fluffy cotton towels, and use two at a time as bedding for the whelping box. I change these towels twice daily at this stage to make sure the puppies are always clean and dry. Starting from day 3, and until day 16, I follow The "Super Dog" Program for our puppies - an early neurological stimulation program described by Dr. Carmen Battaglia. It has numerous benefits later in life for puppies. Often, puppies that were born the smallest overtake the bigger ones. Even at this tender age strong individual differences can be noted among German Shepherd puppies. Also, there is difference in their color and markings, and long-hair German Shepherd puppies can often be identified at this age. The new mom is very attached to her puppies at this age and is very reluctant to leave them even for the shortest time. She spends a lot of time sleeping with the puppies nursing peacefully, and is also very happy to be busy cleaning each puppy several times a day and flipping them around gently with her nose. At about 2 weeks of age German Shepherd puppies actually start looking more like puppies, and not just fat black sausages with feet attached. We use undiluted evaporated goats milk from a can, warmed up to be pleasant to the touch. Most puppies readily accept the bottle, and we consider this to be very important bonding and social time as well. Three weeks of age is my favorite age of all. The puppies now can be recognized as German Shepherd puppies. They are alert, playful, and there is a lot of wrestling, tail-wagging, and even barking going on as they explore their surroundings and interact with each other and their mom, all of which is extremely cute. I will often just sit in the whelping box with them, letting them play with my clothes, climb up on my lap, and generally just enjoying their carefree company. We also provide them with various toys starting at this age, and make sure that they listen to loud music, banging on the door, vacuum cleaner, etc. They weigh around 1. At first, they may not have a lot of success with it, as some of them try to suckle on the meat, but in a few days they master this new type of eating very well. We also continue giving them goats milk, but in a shallow saucer pan now, and with some rice baby cereal added, so that they can practice lapping. At this age, the mom is no longer so keen on constantly staying with her puppies, and only visits them to feed them and for a clean up. We continue changing the bedding twice a day now, knowing very well that in about a week it will become times a day, as the mom will not be able to keep up with her cleaning duties any more. We wash soiled towels with a little bit of bleach and a little bit of perfume-free detergent. Four weeks of age is even more fun as the puppies keep developing, but the amount of cleaning starts to increase in geometrical progression, and it becomes a full time job to keep the puppies well fed and clean. The mom is only visiting now and then at this point, and enjoys spending her time in the office, so that she can hear and see the puppies, but not necessarily be with them. With mom visiting for a few brief feedings each day, we feed them three times a day with the following diet: 1. Cottage cheese 2 tbsp per puppy , mixed with plain yogurt 1 tsp per puppy , evaporated goats milk, rice baby cereal 1 tsp. Raw tripe, or beef liver cooked with all kinds of vegetables At about 5 weeks of age the duty of keeping the whelping box clean becomes nightmarish, and this is a good time to introduce German Shepherd puppies to the outdoors. This is a room that is a part of the house, but has free access to the outside world. This room is equipped with a wooden resting platform so that puppies do not lay on concrete, with a heating lamp above it, and the floor is completely covered with a layer of pine woodchips. The outside area is about 6 x 6 ft and the floor is made of paving stones. There is another wooden laying platform here. This is a very important period when we introduce our German Shepherd puppies to more noises, show them the way in and out of the house, introduce them to the other dogs, play tug-of-war, etc. Also, we introduce raw frozen sardines and "The Honest Kitchen" products to their diet, and will occasionally feed kibble, soaked well in warm water and mixed with green tripe from a can At 3, 5, and 7 weeks of age our German Shepherd puppies get dewormed with a high quality wormer, to be certain that they are free of intestinal parasites. At about 6 weeks of age the puppies get their first combination 5-way vaccine including Parvo and Distemper , and at 7 weeks of age we start welcoming visitors who are interested to come and look at the puppies. Often during weekends we have several groups of visitors of all ages coming to interact with the puppies, which is such a great socialization opportunity for them. Copyright .All rights reserved. The new owners are very gentle with the puppy and simply talk softly to him and give him pats and toys as he gets settled in. Sadly, the Puppy Mill Project states there are more than 10, puppy mills operating just in the United States alone. Puppy mills keep breeding pairs of dogs in often horrific conditions and take the puppies away from their moms much too soon so they can breed another litter of puppies. The Humane Society states that there are some warning signs you can watch for to indicate you may be getting your puppy from an unethical breeder or even from a puppy mill: The breeder is willing to release the puppy to you at a very early age before the age of eight weeks. The breeder will not allow you to visit their kennel and see their operation or meet the parent dogs — they only sell at off-site locations or over the internet. Here again, this question is a topic of often intense debate between different breeders. As one canine biologist explains in Psychology Today , the very earliest any puppy should be allowed to leave the litter and go to their new home is 79 days seven weeks. But many other breeders feel that even seven weeks is too early, as the GSDCA article cited earlier here states. There are a variety of reasons why letting a puppy leave the litter sooner than seven to eight weeks is considered a bad idea. The puppy is still too little and fragile Some breeders believe a primary reason to keep puppies with the mom and littermates longer is that puppies are very little and easily injured. However, because the German Shepherd is a large breed dog and has a sturdier body to start with, some breeders may be apt to release GSD puppies closer to the eight week age range. In contrast, smaller and toy dog breeds that are very delicate may need a bit longer to grow up before going to their new home. The puppy needs to learn social skills Another common reason why many breeders feel that puppies should stay with their litters and mothers at least until they turn eight weeks old is that the puppy will learn important social skills. The best trainer for any German Shepherd puppy is typically going to be the mother dog. As well, GSD puppies will have the chance to play and learn from their littermates and get comfortable with having people around by watching their mother interact with the breeder. Some theories suggest that this initial period of dog-to-dog socialization needs to happen before the dog-to-people socialization so the puppy can learn to be a dog first and then to be a companion to humans next. This benefit is simply that the German Shepherd breeder is experienced working with this dog breed and can give your puppy some early expert training and socialization with people. The difference here would be bringing home a puppy that is already used to a collar and lead, puppy pads, and some initial potty training commands, playing with toys and being handled by people. The rehoming process is always going to be stressful enough on its own that you want to be sure your puppy has the most confidence possible before coming home with you. Set aside time to just be with your puppy Your puppy is going to be a bit nervous or even frightened at first — this is normal. Rehoming is a big change. You can make it easier by just carving out time to sit nearby, praising your puppy, offering pats, and talking softly. These guidelines can ensure that your new German Shepherd puppy feels at home right away living with you. Posted in Uncategorized. We are very excited to present them to the world and look forward to seeing them grow, develop, and move on to their loving forever homes. Puppies need to stay with the dog breeder for a little while after birth. During this time, they learn skills and socialize so they will be well-adjusted when they move away from the litter. Socialization Puppies should stay with the litter for about 8 to 12 weeks. Probably the main reason for this is socialization. When a puppy is with its litter and especially its mother, it learns valuable behaviors. A reputable dog breeder will never let a puppy leave before 7 weeks at the minimum. During this time, the pup will learn how to deal and live with other living things. In a sense, the dogs learn how to dog. Mostly they spend their time playing with their littermates. These are all skills that if developed well, they can use throughout their lives. They also learn how to communicate and receive commands from both their parents and humans. A dog that is not properly socialized will not be confident and may have difficulties fitting into new environments. They could be easily confused and fearful. Neither of these traits is good for both house dogs and dogs that are meant to work or show animals. Unsocialized dogs also tend to have more behavioral problems. They act out in situations in which they are not comfortable. This can mean chewing, barking, or even viciousness. Other dogs are the best trainers for a new pup, so keeping them with their littermates and parents will help them grow and develop into confident, well-behaved dogs. They are bred to be experts at detection, which is great for policing, and agility. While these traits are inbred and instinctual, they also need to be developed. These puppies are spending time with their mother and littermates, with whom their skills are already becoming apparent. The parental dogs provide a good example and play with siblings will mimic and develop these skills. The same goes for agility. There is no better training ground for a pup than an open space with their siblings. German Shepherd Puppies and Humans The fact is, the puppy will most likely be going from a place with many other puppies to a home with either none or comparatively very few. Most of the interactions throughout their lives will be with humans. Dog breeders are dog experts who will calmly and confidently help your puppy get used to human interaction in a safe and respectful way. A newborn puppy sent into a home without that buffer will be extremely stressed and have incredible difficulty adjusting. When it comes to adopting German Shepherd puppies, it is natural to be impatient. However, waiting just a few short weeks to have this beautiful and intelligent pet in your home will pay off down the road.
cavalier x poodle puppies for sale - This team of volunteers rescues Frenchies from puppy mills and even local animal shelters. They can also be contacted in cases where a family can no longer care for their dog for whatever reason. Families who want to bring home a French Bulldog are methodically evaluated. This is in place to ensure that the dogs are placed in suitable homes. With the Chicago French Bulldog Rescue managed by volunteers, this organization is always on the lookout for volunteers that can help in the fostering process, evaluation, training, and assist in the various fundraisers for the benefit of the rescues. This is a non-profit group that has been operating since , and its main objective is to care, love, and place French Bulldogs with their forever families and homes. A sad French Bulldog is lying on the floor. Rescue French Bulldogs aims to rehabilitate their rescues, but being a non-profit association, they mainly rely on donations to run their operations. Note that all the French Bulldogs that go under the care of Rescue French Bulldogs are surrendered to the organization anonymously. After confirming that the Frenchie is in a healthy state or existing medical conditions are treated, Rescue French Bulldogs initiate the re-family process. French Bulldog standing in the street with a woman. And they believe that a significant element in their mission is to invest in awareness about the breed and what responsible ownership entails. True to this commitment, other rescue groups contact them for additional resources to give rescued French Bulldogs a better second chance in life. As long as the dog needs a new home and another opportunity to belong to a family, the Village, without questions, accepts it into its fold. Any Frenchie is welcome, regardless of whether the dog is healthy or has behavioral problems or medical conditions requiring assistance and attention. The Village is committed to accepting all French Bulldogs and eventually finding them new homes. After a thorough screening and home visits, the Board and the coordinators decide which home a rescue will go home to. And the impressive fact about this group is they do what they do excellently with the help of volunteers alone. French Bulldogs feel dry and sleepy after taking a bath. They are responsible for the entire state of Texas and even help out nearby states of Louisiana and Oklahoma. And like all rescue groups, they also aim to rehome French Bulldogs after rescue and rehabilitation. Their rescues come from different sources. This includes Frenchies that owners surrender personally, those brought to the local pound and shelters, stray dogs, import brokers, commercial breeding kennels, and other private rescue groups. In particular circumstances, Short Mugs can get rescues from Louisiana and Oklahoma but only from these areas. The reason behind this is all the volunteers of Short Mugs are situated in Texas. Dogs up for adoption are also posted on their website, but these are not the entirety of the rescues as some are still being treated and rehabilitated. The adoption process varies based on the number of dogs for release and the number of interested individuals. Short Mugs Rescue communicates with all possible fosterers and adopters so they are aware of their application status. Short Mugs Rescue Contact Details:. Read more about the pups that are currently up for adoption. Read More… Foster Dogs FBRN is being faced with an increasing number of dogs who are ill, handicapped, or need expensive veterinary care before being placed. Meet our Foster Frenchies and please consider sponsoring one of them to ensure that they receive the care that they need. Read More… Surrender a Dog Life has thrown you a curve ball and you must surrender your French Bulldog… we are here to help! Read More… Volunteer We welcome you to join us in our efforts to rehabilitate and rehome needy French Bulldogs. We have many options for you to choose from, depending on your circumstances, time and resources. Our organization is composed solely of volunteers who nurture and foster these dogs as well as provide education and training. Our goal is to place healthy and happy French Bulldogs into forever homes. Read More… Contact Us Learn about the many ways that you can get in touch with us. He has a Staffie sister, Lettie, who he adores and who has taught him so much with her gentle patience. He has doggie friends at daycamp he sees once a week. He is the best snuggler ever! He used to be a resource guarder, but will now bring you his toys for a treat! He loves our daily walks and meeting people. Thank you FBRN for picking us to be his family- we love him so much! Despite being mostly blind and deaf, Ham is thriving in his golden years, especially with his folks now working from home. Thank you FBRN for our goodest good boy! We are so grateful for every day with him. She had cherry eye surgery in March right before Covid quarantine and the surgery was a success. A gigantic thank you to FBRN for allowing me to adopt this perfect little nugget. All Rights Reserved. A c 3 Non-Profit Organization. Tax ID: .Powered by Geeks4Rent. All dogs are spayed or neutered. Read each bio very carefully, as not every rescue Frenchie is suited to every home. Our adoption fees offset only a portion of the veterinary expenses for the dogs in FBRN. As these costs rise we have had to increase the adoption fees as one measure to try to keep up with expenses. Our Available Dogs page is updated weekly, so check back often! We are currently reviewing the applications that the dog has already received. Please do not attempt to apply for a dog with a Pending Adoption banner. Your application will not be processed without the fee. If you experience any problems completing the application or you do not receive an auto confirmation for your application, please contact FBRN at [email protected] Thank you. Fees have recently risen. You may see some dogs of the same age have different fees. We elected not to raise the fees on dogs that were posted before the increase. Our fees can be found on the Adoption Info page. Any communication will come through email. Please never share any personal information with anyone who indicates they are a volunteer unless it is coming through the correct channels. If you have received a FB messenger message, please send it to [email protected] so we are aware. In the meantime, check out our Foster Page to see if we might be a good match! Vocality level 3 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament The French Bulldog is a clown in a lapdog. They enjoy playing and entertaining their family, as well as cuddling and snoozing with their favorite person. They are amiable, sweet, companionable, and willing to please. A short walk on lead is sufficient to meet most of its physical needs. Frenchie snores and may wheeze and drool. Require minimal coat care Facial wrinkles should be regularly cleaned. Brachycephalic syndrome stenotic nares, elongated soft palate Intervertebral disk disease CHD seldom causes symptoms or problems Allergies History Where are French Bulldogs from? In the nineteenth century, the Bulldog was fairly popular in England, especially around Nottingham. The French women, especially, were attracted to these little Bulldogs, especially those with erect ears a common but disliked feature in England. Dog dealers brought more of the clownish little dogs to France, where they soon became the rage of Paris. The dogs were dubbed Bouledogue Francais. How big do French Bulldogs get? Some Bulldogs are quite small weighing less than 25 lbs, however, dogs in this breed on average, weigh 28 lbs. What are some French Bulldog facts and information? Facts French Bulldogs are best known for: Bat ears.
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cavalier x poodle puppies for sale - 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. So, while this is not a reason not to get a GSD, it is a reason to look for adequate breeders, to ask for health certificates, to take good care of your dog, and to go to routine vet check-ups. German Shepherds can also be costly to take care of not just to purchase The regular vet visits, the high need for exercise, and the extra-space requirements all make the GSD a relatively expensive dog to take care of in terms of money as well. German Shepherds are very smart but that also makes them easily bored — they require lots of mental stimulation As with all smart dog breeds such as retrievers and other shepherds, the high intelligence of the GSD can be a curse as much as a blessing. So, what can be done to avoid boredom? Toys and time. However, an inexperienced dog owner can find a GSD to be more than a handful. Why is that? Simple — because they are so smart! Yes, their intelligence means that you can train them a lot but it also means they can be temperamental, manipulative, and stubborn! This breed is cute and cuddly at home but socially awkward in public German shepherds are incredibly cute, social, and loving animals. They are loyal to their family and would do anything for those close to them. What does this mean for you? Even if you just get a random GSD and not give it any special training or socialization, the dog may still get along just fine with a cat or a newborn baby. However, in general, the social awkwardness and guard-dog nature of GSDs means that they often need to be socialized well if you want to make other additions to the households down the line. Make sure that you teach your growing GSD to get along with other dog breeds in the dog park or at home. If you have a cat or are thinking of getting a cat, make sure your German Shepherd is accustomed to interacting with cats without any aggression. One of the best and easiest ways to avoid most of the problems above is to just get a second German Shepherd! Yes, we did just say that this breed can be a handful. However, a second dog usually brings much more benefits than negatives: The second dog will join the first in the playtime, meaning that both will exercise with each other very often and minimize the need for your involvement. Having a second GSD also means more mental stimulation for both dogs — again, less work for you and more fun for them. As natural guard dogs, German Shepherds may need to be trained not to bark Unfortunately, GSDs are especially bad for apartment owners not just because they are big but also because they tend to bark at strangers. They are guard dogs after all. This can be avoided, of course, there are ways to train any dog not to bark at strangers or at outside noises. There are several reasons for this: The frequent barking we mentioned above. Yes, you can train that behavior away but your landlord may still forbid you from getting a GSD. Getting a carpet or another type of floor insulation will help here. Giving your dog enough playtime outside will also alleviate this problem. But you may still get in trouble with your neighbors. They are just a large breed and many people, including parents of small children, are afraid of large dogs. Not only are GSDs not hypoallergenic, but they also tend to shed a lot! There are two main reasons for this: The aforementioned health concerns that some German Shepherds have and that get more and more likely as the dog gets older. The simple fact that the GSD is a large dog breed and larger breeds just have a shorter lifespan than smaller ones. As you can see, there are lots of factors to consider before getting a GSD. In general, the right GSD owner can be characterized as such: Has a larger-than-average home, a yard, and a nearby dog park. Has enough time to spend with a German Shepherd. Knows how to train and socialize a GSD properly. Has the financial means to support a German Shepherd. Wants a second dog to play with the first one. How to prepare for getting a German Shepherd? Just like soon-to-be-parents before their first baby, there are lots of books and research to comb through if you want to give your future German Shepherd the care, upbringing, socialization, and care it needs. So Make sure your home is ready for a large dog to soon start springing through it. Make sure you have the time and daily schedule to play with a GSD. Consider owning a Cairn Terrier! In this article, we explore who would benefit them as furry friends! Check them here! Read on to discover nine types of people who should consider owning this unique breed. Check this article to learn more about the types of people who are perfect for owning a Poodle dog! 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 request is typically accompanied by also wanting a list of questions to ask the German Shepherd breeder. Based on this feedback I wanted to give you the ultimate list of questions to ask, plus any warning signs that should make you walk away without buying. Not just warning sings about the German Shepherd puppy, but also her mother and the breeder too. Things to know before buying a German Shepherd puppy The moment you see that adorable German Shepherd puppy for the first time, the feeling will last with you forever. It certainly did with me when we first met our own dog. Just take a step back for a second. I wish we had, but luckily, our dog ended up being ok, but it could have been very different: German Shepherds and any puppies can have health problems be sold by unscrupulous breeders. With their long noses, furry bodies, and sparkling eyes, they will tug at your heart strings. You will be tempted to just take that German Shepherd puppy and go. But please, please, please… before you do that, here are some important things you should check before you pay your money. Your German Shepherd will become a huge part of your life, but make sure you know what to look for before you buy a puppy. Read these before you spend the money. By doing this due diligence you should hopefully get a puppy that not only fits your family and lifestyle, but also lives a long and happy life. You want to choose one that has a track record, online reviews, and a good reputation in the German Shepherd world… not some first timer nobody has heard of. Be suspicious of low prices: If the German Shepherd puppies are advertised as a lower than average price, be wary. The old adage about if it looks too good to be true is almost always the case with puppies. Low prices can be a sign of an unhealthy litter. Find out how many litters the mother has had already: German Shepherd mothers should not have anything more than one litter each year. The best scenario would be a litter every couple of years. More pregnancies than this mean she has been over-bred and both her and the puppies could have health problems. Look out for serious conditions and hereditary issues including hip and spine issues, soft palate issues, eye problems, and hearing problems. I would recommend getting a puppy from a German Shepherd older than this just to be sure. Before 8 weeks of age, they should still be with her, and it can also help you understand what type of dog your puppy will grow up to be. If the breeder refuses access to the mother, walk away. Ask where the puppies have been living: If the German Shepherds have been in a dark garage away from human interaction it will mean they will be harder to socialize and harder to train. Ask how often the German Shepherds have been handled: When puppies are regularly handled by humans, they will be much easier when taken home. Ask whether a vet has checked the puppies: Puppies should have been checked by a vet and had their first set of vaccinations before going to their new home. Ask to speak to a previous buyer:A reputable breeder will let you talk to people who have bought a German Shepherd puppy from them before. If they are unable to supply references and contacts, they could be hiding something. I hope you find these questions to ask a German Shepherd breeder helpful. Please do print them off before you visit the litter and decide to buy. The personality of the German Shepherd breeder This is so often over-looked, but I wanted to add it on as something to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy. Only buy a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder who is prepared to take the time to answer any questions and concerns you might have. Breeders that treat buyers with respect will most likely extend that kindness to the German Shepherd mother and her puppies. This gives you an indication of what health problems could in store. Puppies can sometimes have the following conditions: Allergies. 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. This is a big step and can be so rewarding. Finding the right dog for you and your family starts with proactively talking to a responsible German Shepherd breeder. How can you tell if a breeder is everything you need them to be and what signs point to competent breeding practices? There are many factors to consider when raising a new dog, and many pertinent questions to ask your breeder. It is very valuable to understand your breeder, your interested dog breed, and what makes up your puppy. There are many steps coming up on this journey and information can play a very key role. There are many great dog obedience classes San Antonio, and by knowing what questions should be on your mind, you can best navigate these crucial first few months and years. Important Questions For Your German Shepherd Breeder Knowing your breeder and building a relationship with open communication can be very important. To understand your dog you need to understand your breeder. Have The Parents Been Tested? German Shepherds are working dogs. Potential parents should pass all relevant testing to show trainability, temperament, and should also show testing hip and elbow fitness. Are The Parents Registered? What Is Their Pedigree? Registration is really just a proof of pedigree and bloodline history. You can learn a lot about new puppies from their pedigree. This can include, temperament, skill sets, attitude and disposition, and even health concerns. Can You Meet The Parents? This may not always be possible. This is often because breeders will often use a quality male that is owned by someone else and may not live near you. They can often still provide many details, pictures, accolades and descriptions of the male. Be wary of any breeder that is reluctant to introduce you to the parents. Parental lineage is important for many reasons. But perhaps the most relevant is understanding potential health concerns and medical predispositions. GSDs struggle with many genetic and hereditary health conditions and the breeding process is often focused on reducing the negatives and accentuating the positives. A good German Shepherd breeder should be able to provide you with a very clear medical history and a breakdown of risks and concerns. Contracts should protect both the breeder and the new owner. There are many health factors that could come into play, and some breeders offer warranties and guarantees as well as have contracts with specific stipulations. Be sure to carefully read and consider all contract details. By the time you make a purchase, your puppy should have had multiple rounds of deworming, vaccination, and checkups and health screenings. It is also important to ask about microchipping. Does The Breeder Provide References? You need to thoroughly vet your breeder. If you can watch training days or events this can give you a window into their process. Like any critical buying process, almost nothing competes with the value of word of mouth. Ask around and try to gather an objective and impartial image of your breeder. There are many other considerations to keep in mind when raising this incredible breed, but having a good breeder relationship and knowing the parents is an important start. Depending on their proximity, a German Shepherd breeder may have recommendations for dog obedience classes San Antonio as well. 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. German Shepherds are highly intelligent, loyal and loving. For example, shepherds require consistent mental and physical exercise and prefer not to spend long hours alone. If you travel regularly, a shepherd might not be the best breed for you. Additionally, German shepherd puppies require consistent socialization early on and throughout their lives. This ensures problem behaviors do not have a chance to develop. In other words, buying a German Shepherd requires commitment on the part of the owner. Yet, that commitment pays off in years of loving and loyal companionship. Are you considering adding a German Shepherd to the family? Experienced GS breeders have in-depth knowledge of the breed and are committed to producing top quality pups. Like all purebreds, German shepherds are prone to genetic disorders. Shepherds, for example, are at a high risk for hip dysplasia. Ultimately, choose a breeder that you can trust, that has references and a clean facility, and that has years of experiencing breeding German shepherds. Problems arise when shepherds do not have an outlet for their intelligence. Fortunately, training and regular physical and mental exercise will ensure your GS pup is happy and engaged. Start by having a training plan in place prior to purchasing a German Shepherd puppy. Obedience classes too can be a helpful bonding experience that will keep your puppy engaged and build trust. Additionally, plan to provide regular exercise for your dog. German shepherds love long walks and opportunities to expend pent-up energy. Dog sports and agility classes are one choice for helping your shepherd burn some of that unused energy. Yet, German shepherds do not behave like this. They show loyalty to a particular person but are suspicious or indifferent to strangers. This shyness can develop into aggressive or territorial behaviors if the dog is not properly socialized. Be prepared to introduce your shepherd to different situations, people and other animals as a puppy and continually throughout its life. In fact, some experts recommend introducing your GS puppy to up to new people and 50 different locations within the first 12 weeks of life. A German shepherd that has not been properly socialized may wrongly assume a delivery man or lawn mower is a threat. Yet, that hard work pay offs; shepherd puppies provide years of loving companionship and serve as a loyal and devoted family members. But before you make the leap, make sure you understand the unique needs of the breed. First, choose a reliable German shepherd breeder with a track record of producing top quality dogs. Then, be prepared to provide consistent mental, physical and emotional stimulation throughout its life.