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Standard Goldendoodles can weigh anywhere between 50 and 90 pounds. Personality The place where the Goldendoodle puppy really excels is its personality. Its breed is known for being simultaneously intelligent and adoring. A Goldendoodle puppy is very sociable, which makes them perfect animals for households with children and other animals or pets, even cats. Just like the Labradoodle, this breed requires correct socialization to ensure they get used to different sights, sounds and smells during puppyhood. This means taking your Goldendoodle to plenty of doggy-friendly parks so they can meet canine friends and introducing them to other people. Our Goldendoodle puppies for sale are fully trained Doodles, so you can focus on the fun bits, like bonding, eating food and playing. These dogs prefer to live in a house with a gated backyard where they can get regular exercise breaks. Do They Like to Play? Goldendoodle Puppy Training These clever dogs are perfect for first-time dog owners because Goldendoodles love to please and take great pride in learning new skills. Are Goldendoodles Intelligent? Both of its poodle and golden retriever parent breeds are known for their intelligence and trainability, and Goldendoodles have inherited this breed trait. This means the person training a Goldendoodle needs to be strong-willed, firm and consistent — but never harsh or aggressive. Much like a poodle, Doodles are sensitive dogs, and positive reinforcement is a must to bring out the best in them. How Obedient Are They? Goldendoodle pups adore human company, and making their pet parents happy brings them genuine satisfaction. As such, correct puppy training produces a highly obedient and loyal adult Goldendoodle. Older adults, people with disabilities and individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders can benefit significantly from the warmth and sweetness of these adorable Goldendoodle pups. Are They Easy to Train? Doodle puppies can be mischievous and cheeky, but aggression is practically unheard of. So as long as you treat them with the same gentle respect they offer, a Goldendoodle is one of the easiest dog breeds to train. Goldendoodles have loads of energy and require regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and calm temperament. A Goldendoodle need a moderately high level of outdoor activity — usually a minimum of 30 minutes, but ideally one hour, of moderate to vigorous exercise per day will keep Goldendoodle puppies at their best. Unlike puppy mills, all good puppy and dog breeders provide a certificate that shows health clearances. At Pride and Prejudoodles, our tests cover common health conditions. As such, you have peace of mind when purchasing your new puppy from us. How Long Do Goldendoodles Live? Goldendoodles live for between 10 and 15 years. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Goldendoodle puppies for adoption. Questions about Goldendoodle puppies for sale in New York? We have answers. What is an overview of Goldendoodle puppies for sale in New York. Hair all over the furniture, constant bouts of sniffling and sneezing.Uptown Goldendoodles boast incredible coats that make life easy for even the most sensitive of dog allergy sufferers. Soft, Cuddly, Cute Doodles are dangerously cute. Friendliest Dispositions Some dogs make great cuddle buddies, but get tuckered out after five minutes of play time. Goldendoodles make the perfect companions because their favorite thing to do is whatever your favorite is. These dogs are both rewarding and fun to train, all thanks to their unique heritage that includes the obedient Golden Retriever and intelligent Poodle. The Uptown Family Our dogs are like family—a family that you become a part of as soon as you bring home one of our pups. We provide top-of-the-line food, training materials and supplements to help your Doodle reach its full potential, and make your life together more fun and rewarding. Perfect Family Pet Want an easy-going dog your kids will adore? An energetic pooch who can keep up on all of your activities? Goldendoodles fit in with just about any family and can adapt to any living situation because they LOVE people, period. Around here, there are more choices than you can shake a stick at. Our Goldendoodles are available in tons of patterns and coat colors, plus four totally different sizes ranging from tiny to big teddy bear. Highest New York Goldendoodle Breeder Standards Our breeders truly love dogs, and you can tell by the way we raise our Doodles—from loving guardian homes for our mommy Goldendoodles, breeding retirement ages and limitations on litter counts, to the superb conditions in which we raise our pups. We want to raise the happiest puppies possible, and that starts with our top-of-class genetic lines.

Their coats can be black, fawn or silver. Silver-coated pugs are extremely rare. Although black pugs possess the dominant color gene, breeding a black and a fawn pug does not guarantee any particular color. In fact, many experts and breeders recommend against the cross-breeding of black and fawn pugs because it can create many unusual colors that are not recognized by the American Kennel Club AKC. Obtain a black pug and a fawn pug if you want to breed them. The puppies will likely contain a mixture of colors that will not be recognized by the AKC. If you are not interested in show dogs, you can breed the two different color pugs and should not see any ill-effects from the breeding. Schedule a veterinarian appointment so that your pug can be examined to ensure she is in good health and able to breed. The veterinarian should check for parasites and update your pug on her shots at least two weeks prior to breeding. Introduce your male pug to your female pug two or three days after she begins her estrous cycle. The stud can be in the same pen as the female pug for a day or two so that they can pair. Visit your veterinarian shortly after your pug has been bred. Your veterinarian will let you know if your dog is pregnant and will suggest nutritional supplements if necessary. Construct or buy a whelping box for your pregnant pug. Allow plenty of time for your dog to become accustomed to the box. The whelping box should be roomy, about a foot longer than your pug lying on her side, with low sides so that you can reach in easily. Line the box with paper until the puppies are born. Some suggested whelping supplies to gather and keep in the room are scissors, clean towels, paper towels, iodine, unwaxed dental floss and a heating pad. Keep the room quiet, warm and away from other dogs. Look for signs of labor. She may stop eating and will look for a place to "nest" which will hopefully be the whelping box. Tips There is no way to ensure that the pug puppies will come out a certain color or multiple colors. If you breed a black pug with a fawn pug though, you will likely get some unusual colors and patterns. What Is a Fawn Pug? The fawn Pug is a common color variant of the Pug breed. This dog has a pale coat color that has soft cream or a faint tan shade. Fawn Pugs may also have lighter or darker fur in some areas of their body. Other than its color, the fawn Pug shares most of its traits with the rest of the Pug breed. When we chase back history, there are only a few details about the fawn color. However, it was noted that Pugs are considered an ancient breed, and it was through selective breeding wherein the fawn color was developed. These brachycephalic dog breeds were standardized by the 19th century, and the fawn fur color was generally used as a foundation in shows as it gained popularity during breeding processes globally. Generally, the fawn and black fur color of Pugs are recognized as standard by reputable kennel clubs worldwide. Fawn-colored Pugs are usually seen in dog shows and movies since they are more desired by pet lovers. These Pugs also come in different varieties, such as regular fawn Pugs, apricot fawn Pugs, and silver fawn Pugs. However, they are still the same dog breed. These color varieties are just simply to describe the tinge and fur shade. Are Fawn Pugs Rare? These non-black Pugs are the most common Pugs globally. Despite them carrying recessive genes, fawn Pug puppies are about two-thirds of the Pug population. However, a particular fawn Pug variety, the silver fawn Pug, is pretty rare. They are much lighter than the regular and apricot fawn Pugs. A fawn Pug is a small breed dog with a pale tan coat color or slightly yellowish and very light cream. They also exhibit a brachycephalic head, which means that they have flat faces. Fawn-colored Pugs have wrinkled faces, a short muzzle, big prominent eyes, round heads, and non-erect ears. Their bodies are usually compact with a curly tail at the back, and their legs are short. They have masks that typically cover the muzzle and chin and extend around the eyes. This marking is highly desirable in dog shows, especially darker ones. Moreover, they have a darker brown sheen or black hairs on their backs called trace. It predominantly starts at the back of the neck down to the base of the tail. However, the trace may fade away as the fawn puppy matures. In addition, there may be slight differences between male and female Pugs. However, both genders grow to about 10 to 14 inches tall and weigh between 13 and 20 pounds. Although fawn Pug puppies already came from a tiny breed, their size and weight should not be confused with teacup Pugs that are not pedigree dogs. As mentioned above, these Pugs have varieties that have silver or apricot tones. Some kennels consider them under fawn-colored dogs, while others separate them as apricot Pugs or silver Pugs since fawn is a broad term. Pugs with apricot fawn coats have a medium cream appearance that is darker than that of a regular fawn Pug. Silver fawn Pugs have the lightest shade, and they usually appear as extremely pale silver tinge coats. They may have markings such as masks on their faces, but each purebred Pug will have unique placements of these marks. Most Pugs are also not uniformly solid in color. Some may have lighter or dark coat hues. Other rare Pug colors that are not fawn are brindle Pugs, panda Pugs, and chocolate Pugs. However, we will discuss those in other articles. A Pug puppy gets one color gene from each of its parents. Combining these two color genes will determine the coat color of the litter. A reputable breeder usually does DNA testing to achieve the desired fur color. That means the parent should be both fawn Pugs, or the black Pug being bred to the fawn Pug should carry the recessive genes for fawn Pug litter to be produced. This happens because black is a dominant color, meaning you only need one black gene to produce black Pugs, despite being bred to a fawn Pug. In the case of a fawn-colored Pug puppy, they either lighten or darken, especially in their first year of existence. As puppies, they may appear with a dirt-like appearance due to the black hairs intermingled with their light colored-fur. These hairs are called smuttiness, and they often fade as the pup grows. The same goes with the trace. In contrast, the masks of non-black Pugs tend to darken as puppies mature into adults. They generally follow the guidelines set by the Pug Dog Club. However, Pugs with non-standard Pug colors such as silver fawn, those with brindle coats, and apricot Pugs can still be registered in AKC but cannot compete in show rings. The Canadian Kennel Club recognizes three Pug colors — silver-fawn, fawn, or black. Aside from either fawn or black Pugs, the Kennel Club of the UK accepts four coat colors as a breed standard, including silver and apricot-colored dogs. For generations, the Pug breed has proven to be great companions and family pets. Fawn Pug puppies have docile, charming, playful, and affectionate personalities, making them loved by most dog lovers. An essential thing to consider is that a fawn Pug does not tolerate being left alone for long periods and is highly attached to its owners. So if you want a clingy buddy, a fawn Pug puppy is perfect for you. They are great with children and other pets, including cats. However, they still need to be socialized early to know how to behave appropriately. These fawn puppies are intelligent purebred Pugs that respond well to training and positive reinforcement. However, you may need to stand your ground at times since most Pugs are stubborn. Furthermore, they tend to be energetic, so as Pug owners, you should give them about 30 minutes of exercise to shake off stored energies and avoid destructive behavior. It is important to note that coat colors do not affect the temperament of your Pug. Female Pug: Which Is Better? The lifespan of a fawn Pug is between 11 and 14 years. They are a brachycephalic breed which makes them prone to several health problems. This makes them at risk of developing respiratory problems like laryngeal collapse and hypoplastic trachea. This can cause neurological issues, pain, weakness, and loss of bladder control. However, this can be managed by rest and anti-inflammatory medicines. Heat Stroke: Pug dogs are affected mainly by heat strokes due to their tight coats. They are sensitive to changes in temperature and do not do well in hot climates. Keeping them indoors during summer can help avoid this condition as it can be life-threatening. Many factors will surround the health of your puppies, such as acquiring them from a reputable breeder, diet, exercise, and genetics. Puppy Prices and Expenses Since the fawn color in Pugs is one of the standard colors, fawn Pugs are priced similarly to other Pugs. Adopting a fawn Pug puppy is a great option. This means you get to save money while giving a rescue pup a second chance at life. They will need essential items to transition and settle into a permanent home. Here is a list of initial expenses in owning a fawn Pug puppy: Type of Expense. Black Pugs Overview Pugs are found in two basic colors, black and fawn, plus silver-fawn and apricot-fawn standard with clubs other than the AKC. Black is a very interesting coat color with the Pug; distinctive markings seen with fawns do not show on black Pugs, however, an all black Pug is extraordinarily beautiful. This article will dive into the details about black Pugs including popularity, variations, possible markings, photo examples, mistaking brindle for black, coat aspects, questions regarding behavior, and origin. Black Pugs in Kennel Club Breed Standards Though there are variances in regard to non-black Pugs with all major kennel clubs, there is agreement across the board regarding black Pugs. How Common Are Black Pugs If you've noticed that there are generally fewer photos of black Pugs than fawn Pugs or that you don't see black Pugs in person very often, this is because there really are fewer of them. To determine more precisely how many black Pugs there are, we presented the question of 'What color is your Pug? This polling suggests that a bit less than one-fourth of Pugs are black or in other words, 1 in 4 Pugs have black coats. Variations with Black Pugs In conformation show rings, all major kennel clubs expect black Pugs to be solid black. And, this is indeed what many black Pugs are, but there are some exceptions. Black Pugs can have small markings, sometimes referred to as a mismark, which can occasionally be seen with Pugs of all colors. If this occurs, it is often a small white or light patch on the chest. Aside from this, there can be larger markings, seen as faults in the show ring, which may include a larger area of white on the chest or a scattering of lighter hairs throughout the coat. This doesn't stop her from being active with her family, Jerry, Shelly and Taylor Koltz in Frisco, Texas Just like humans, dogs can develop gray hairs as they age. It does not happen to all Pugs, but to a majority of them to some extent. While this will not be very noticeable on fawn Pugs, gray hairs on black Pugs stand out quite a bit. In some cases, graying will only be seen around the face, but other seniors can grow gray hairs on any other areas of the body. The appearance of gray hairs with black Pugs may start as early as the 8-year mark, but is most commonly seen with those age 10 and up. Mistaking Brindle for Black Brindle is a pattern of interlocking striping colors and is not an accepted standard color for the Pug with any of the well-known kennel clubs. In fact, many wonder where this color came from or if it can even truly exist in the Pug bloodline. Other breeds were used to develop the Pug which is where the pattern most likely came from; however, since it is not a color called out for in breed standards, most breeders do not aim to produce this and it is only seen sporadically. As you can see with Luna here photo below who is a brindle, there is a lot of black in the coat. Yet, it is woven in with fawn as part of the brindle pattern. While she may have an overall appearance of a dark coat, this should not be confused with a true black coat. This may lead you to wonder why there are more fawn Pugs than black ones. The main reason is that breeders choose more often to produce fawns. If both colors were equally represented within all breeding programs, there would be many more litters of black Pug puppies than there currently are. Each pup's color is determined by a pair of color genes, one comes from the dam, the other from the sire. If both genes in the pair are black, the Pug will be black. If one gene is black and the other is fawn, the pup will be black since it is the dominant gene and overpowers the fawn. If both genes are fawn, the Pug will be fawn. Interestingly, despite their coloring, black Pugs carry the fawn gene, known as SS, though it is a recessive gene. The B gene produces the black coat color. Generally, it is not acceptable to breed a black Pug to a fawn. Crossing colors will not improve the coat or color of either type. Therefore, with no benefit to the pairing, most breeders will focus on one certain color. This said, due to recessive genes, a litter can consist of both fawn coats and black coats. In most cases, there will be more fawns, with a ratio. Size, body structure, ear set, bite set, tail shape , and eyes are all the same for all colors with this breed. While you may see black Pugs that are smaller than fawns, there are just as many that are larger. And while you may spot more fawns with double-curled tails, there are just as many black-coated Pugs with the double curl. Any physical differences that you may see are just a matter of those particular dogs. Non-black Pugs have black ears and a black mask black over the muzzle and around the eyes , and of course technically this is there with black Pugs but is part of the dog's overall coat. The toe nails on Pugs of all colors can be black or white, though black is preferred in conformation events. Differences - The one and only difference between the two colors is that some but not all black Pugs often have a single coat versus the double coat seen with most fawns. The double coat consists of both a soft and dense inner layer and a short, shiny outer layer. Black Pugs that have just the single layer will be missing the inner layer. While you may not notice much of a difference by eye, you can often feel the difference when petting a Pug and this does affect how much a Pug sheds. With double-coats, there will be more shedding since the inner layer rapidly cycles, especially in the fall and spring. There is generally more upkeep needed with grooming tools to remove the dead hairs. Personality Differences There is much debate on whether coat color determines a Pug's personality. Some may say that black Pugs are better behaved, are more relaxed, or are less vocal than fawns. Yet, just as many will say the opposite. The question of personality traits is one of nature versus nurture. Is behavior inbred or does a dog's environment and type of care received shape the personality? It has been our experience that while genetic traits regarding temperament can be passed down, it is how a Pug is raised, trained, and treated that will have the biggest impact on that dog's overall behavior. The Origin and Popularity Spread of Black Pugs Unlike many other breeds whose development was meticulously recorded and those documents are preserved as part of history, the Pug's early development is shrouded in mystery. General consensus is that the Pug originated in China thousands of year ago at least B. Chinese drawings, carvings, and statues depicted dogs that were, most likely, ancient ancestors of the Pug. But, unfortunately, documents covering the very early development of Pugs was essentially erased from history when some time around B. Yet, of course, moving further ahead in time, evidence and record-keeping started up again, including those connected to the appearance of black Pug dogs. Black Pugs are known to exist as early as the 's thanks to William Hogarth's painting of one in House of Cards .The artist was an owner of Pugs and portrayed many in his paintings so there is an exceptional visual record of this breed's appearance from over years ago. House of Cards, a painting by William Hogarth showing a small black Pug [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons Note that this far back in the breed's development, the body was more slender and the face was not as flat. It was in that black Pugs first appeared in England which allowed them to eventually spread to other parts of the world including the United States. It is believed that Lady Annie Brassey, a Victorian author who traveled extensively, is responsible for this introduction. On one of her trips to China, she brought back a pair of black Pug puppies and decided to show them at the Maidstone Dog Show that was held that year. Due to her efforts, black Pugs where shown more and more and started gaining acceptance and popularity. Black Pugs actually became recognized as a separate variation of the Pug in by the Kennel Club in London. Do you have a Pug? This comprehensive care book guides you through every step of your Pug's life. Are you part of the PetPugDog family? Join us by becoming a free PetPugDog Member ; this will allow you to receive newsletters that announce new articles and help you stay up-to-date with care tips and other information. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Chinchilla Platinum These coat colors are usually not a pure-bred coat color but a mix of a few other breeds. Most of these breeders are breeding from the pure pug line. If you want a pure breed pug, keep in mind that these rare pug colors are usually not pure breeds. The short answer is YES. Mask and Ears Most fawn pugs have a black mask and ears. The mask will start under their chin and extend up over their eyes as well as covering their muzzle. These are the most common looks of a pug. The masks and black ears can be of different shades and varying amounts to give each Pug their unique look. Smuttiness Some pugs have what is called smuttiness. This is when your Pug has a lot of black hairs that are mixed with lighter colors in their coat. If your fawn-colored Pug has a few black hairs here and there, this is not considered smuttiness. Many times, a dog with smuttiness will have enough black hairs which looks like a mild haze to their color. Smuttiness is a fault and will cause your Pug to getting deductions in the show ring but will not be disqualified. The Trace A trace is a dark line on their back. A trace will usually begin at the scruff of their neck, going all the way straight now their back to the base of their tail. This line can be varying degrees of thickness and darkness. Sometimes the trace may not be apparent when your Pug is young and will slowly start to show up as they get older. The opposite is also true, your Pug may have a trace at birth, and this will slowly fade as your Pug starts to mature. Also be called a diamond due to the irregular or diamond shape of the mark. A thumbprint is present when your pug is born and puppies very rarely develop these as they get older. It may get bigger or darker as your dog ages but rarely does it appear or disappear as your puppy grows. These two traits are very highly wanted in pug breeds. In the AKC show ring, the darker black these spots, the better. White Paws While white paws are not common or wanted in a show ring. However, they can happen. White paws are usually due to the gene or mixed breed pugs. A pug with white paws will likely have white on their chest, body, or face too. It is normal for a dog to change color some as they get older. As previously mentioned, some of the black markings may fade or get darker as your Pug gets older. A fawn color pug may also get lighter or darker as they get older. Some of the apricot or silver colorings may not be present when your Pug is born but may start to show up as your puppy grows and develops. The amount of smuttiness can go away or even get darker as your Pug gets older. As your Pug reaches adulthood, the black mask and ears will usually become darker. As your Pug enters their senior years, they will also start to develop gray on the face and muzzle. Your Pug will not change from a fawn pug puppy to a black pug as an adult or from a black pug puppy to a fawn pug as an adult. The changes will be lightening and darkening the color they were as a puppy. FAQs 1. Will the color of my Pug affects their behavior? Some people do think that black pugs are more energetic and more personable than fawn pugs. There are no studies that show that personality is related to coat color. Most of the time, these differences in personality are how the dog was raised. Pugs can be very hard-headed, loving, and loyal dogs. These dogs are great with kids and very easy to train. Each dog will have its own personality based mostly on their lifestyle and training, giving you a wonderful companion for many years. Does a fawn Pug shed more than a black Pug? Shedding is based on the breed of the dog and not their coat color. Most Pugs have a double coat and will shed a pretty good bit. However, some black pugs shed less than the double-coated ones because of their single coat. The coat type has a much more effect on shedding than the color of their fur. Most pugs have black nails, no matter their coat color. Some pugs may have a few light-colored or brown-colored nails, which makes it easier to see quickly when trimming their nails. Final Thoughts I hope you find this article helpful about the different colors of Pugs. Check out this video below for the different Pug types you may want to know.

Despite their ancestry, English Bulldogs are not ferocious anymore but laid back and affectionate. Bulldogs are one of the most recognizable dog breeds in the world. They are medium-sized dogs with low-hanging, thick bodies. They are perfect for inexperienced owners due to their relaxed personality, moderate exercise needs, and easy grooming. Of course, there are some negatives to owning English Bulldogs, like health problems caused by their flat muzzle and their unusual body shape. This is the English Bulldog price range for a puppy from a small-scale but reputable breeder. Gasping at these numbers is an appropriate reaction, but there are multiple reasons why Bulldog puppies are so expensive. We will cover the high costs of breeding later, but the price of English Bulldogs also depends on market laws — the popularity of the breed drives the price up. Four British Bulldog puppies on a run While the adorable Bulldog is low-maintenance in terms of grooming and exercise, various health problems can make them expensive to care for. You should also avoid buying puppies from pet shops since they usually come from puppy mills. Buying a puppy directly from a reputable breeder is the best way to go. Ethical breeders provide health screenings for their puppies and answer all your questions regarding their parents, breeding, and living conditions. Bulldogs from reputable breeders cost more due to high breeding expenses. Other breeding costs include genetic testing, vet bills, and preparation expenses. On the other hand, when you adopt from a Bulldog rescue, the dog is usually spayed or neutered and up to date on vaccinations. Age: Caring for a newborn Bulldogs takes time, money, and energy. Older puppies or adolescent Bulldogs will cost less than newborns. Gender: The price for female English Bulldogs might be slightly higher in some cases, but the difference is usually negligible. Coat Color: Coat color can seriously affect the price of the dog because some colors and patterns are pretty rare. Standard coat colors include white, fawn, red, brindle, and their combinations. Bulldogs with these colors and patterns fall within the average range price. Meanwhile, rarer colors and patterns are more expensive. The newest colors, like merle or lilac, are even more costly. These numbers are based on the essentials like supplies, food, grooming costs, medical expenses, training costs, with microchip and license included. Replacement costs of these types of goodies will range based on how quickly your Bulldog destroys their current supply. You can also order subscription packs from many reputable companies that give your dog new exploratory items every month. Since these dogs are at risk for many health complications, save as much as you can—erring on the side of caution. The best time for obedience lessons is between 6 months to a year, but every trainer varies in preference. Depending on the treatment, you could spend thousands of dollars in one swoop. Pet sitting is more personalized care but can rack up extra fees. If you want to save as much as possible while still giving your Bulldog the care they need, look at these money-saving tips. They mainly offer spay and neuter surgeries at reduced costs, but they can also provide basic care. You can make anything from dog toys to intricate beds. Many things you can make may not even require going to the store for materials—you can simply make them from existing items at home. Auto-Ship Dog Food If you buy your dog food from certain websites, many companies offer discounted prices if you place an automatic, recurring order. Of course, you can always save on English Bulldog costs by using low-cost services and making tons of at-home projects and toys for your pooch. Less - The English Bulldog is a wide, medium-sized, compact dog with short legs. The body and head are massive with extra skin on both the skull and forehead falling in folds. The cheeks extend to the sides of the eyes. The muzzle is wide, short and pug with a broad, deep stop. The black nose is broad with large nostrils. The dark eyes are deep set. The rose ears are small, thin and set high on the head. The jaws are massive, very broad, and square with hanging upper lips. The teeth should have an under bite. The tail is either straight or screwed and carried low. The short, flat coat is straight, smooth and glossy. Coat colors include red brindle and other shades of brindle, solid white, solid red, fawn, fallow, piebald, pale yellow or washed-out red or white or a combination of these colors. Despite its "sourmug," the bulldog is jovial, comical and amiable, among the most docile and mellow of dogs. It is willing to please, although it retains a stubborn streak. It is very good with children. Most are moderately friendly toward strangers. Although some can be aggressive with strange dogs, the breed is quite good with other pets. These dogs were bred for sheer fighting capacity, and they were famed for latching onto their prey with an iron jaw which they refused to release—they could even suffocate opponents this way. English Bulldogs are simultaneously a symbol of British tenacity and an immensely popular American pet.

Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. Labrador Retrievers are consistently among the most popular dog breeds worldwide, due in large part to their cheerful personalities and obedient natures. If you live in California and want to expand your pack with a new Labrador Retriever puppy, the breeders on this list should be the first places that you check. The 8 Labrador Retriever Breeders in California 1. However, they emphasize preparing their pups to be working dogs, ready to help you with your next hunt. For an additional fee, you can have your new dog taught basic obedience and advanced gun dog training. Summerland Labradors Visit Their Website Phelan, CA Summerland Labradors is a small operation, producing only two to three litters per year, so you need to be on the ball if you want to adopt from them. Kenya Labradors Visit Their Website Santa Margarita, CA The biggest downside in buying a dog from Kenya Labradors is that the animals are raised on a gorgeous, acre plot overlooking the California coast, so the dog might be a bit disappointed when they get to your house. Still, all that room enables these dogs to get plenty of exercise and socialization before they join your pack. This kennel breeds well-pedigreed dogs, and your pup will come with more paperwork than the average new car. Your dog will be accustomed to living like you do long before you pick them up, which should cut down their adjustment time significantly. All their dogs are AKC-registered, and each one has many generations of champions in their heritage. They go to great lengths to try to match each pooch up with the perfect home for them, so your dog will be chosen based on how their temperament fits in with your existing lifestyle. They also guarantee that their dogs will be free of genetic defects up to 1 year of age or your money back. Your new pup will be thoroughly vetted, registered with the AKC, and microchipped before being handed over to you. They also have an extensive blog that answers just about any question that you might have about raising your new family member. You may also be interested in:. Life Span Did You Know? Black Labrador Retrievers, or just Black Labs, are a common coat color variation of one of the most popular dog breeds. The Black Labrador Retriever is not necessarily a separate dog breed. Black Labs are still Labrador Retrievers; they just have a distinct coat color that is a specifically-bred characteristic. Like other Labrador Retrievers, Black Labs are energetic, playful, and affectionate dogs that make great family companions. Although they are active and energetic dogs, Labs are also known for their gentleness and patience with other family members. Well-socialized Black Labs tend to get along well with just about everyone including children, other dogs, pets, and even strangers. They are considered one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , Black Labs thrive on attention, especially from their favorite humans. They are happiest when they are spending time with their families and receiving affection and attention from them. Despite their high energy, Labs are highly adaptable dogs. They do tend to be better suited to homes with fenced yards where they can run, but they also adapt well to apartments provided they get enough daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation. They do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat and extreme cold like many dog breeds. As such, they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Black Labrador Retriever can include elbow dysplasia , hip dysplasia, heart disease, hereditary myopathy, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. Another potential health concern is EIC exercise-induced collapse , which can occur in young adult Labs and has a genetic link. Because carriers can be identified by DNA tests, it is recommended that breeders test for them. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you talk to the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large, deep-chested dog breed, Labrador Retrievers are at a higher risk for bloat. Labrador Retrievers are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. Although their high energy and puppylike exuberance can sometimes be a challenge, they are intelligent dogs that are eager to please. As long as training is kept consistent and focused on positive rewards and praise, novice owners still tend to do well with Black Labs. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training too. Black Labs have a short, water-resistant double coat that sheds year-round and sheds heavier as seasons change. Depending on how active your Black Lab is and what they get into, they may need a bath more often, especially if they are swimming a lot. Weekly ear checks and careful cleanings when needed help prevent ear infections. Good dental care for dogs , like daily brushing and cleanings at the vet when needed, can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. As one of the most active dog breeds , a Black Labrador Retriever will need a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are a minimum. Your Black Lab will likely be up for more activity if you are. One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that they have an extended puppyhood. They tend to maintain a puppylike exuberance until they are years old. Although they do tend to mellow out as they get older, they are still active, energetic, and playful dogs. Once they are fully grown, you can try other things like hiking, running, dock diving, and more to find other activities you and your Black Lab can enjoy together. Fully-grown Black Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Black Labs generally live for years on average. Black Labrador Retrievers came before the also-popular Chocolate Lab. All modern Chocolate Labs can be traced back to three Black Labs in the s. It was the December issue of .Featured Black Labrador Retriever Article. This is is a very strong breeding presenting 14 National Field Champions in their combined pedigrees. She is a muscular rock solid 52 pound female of pure energy. She can outrun anyone and her love of retrieving is pure and always front and center. She is definitely her mother's Jet daughter. She taught her well, she is a strong hunting partner and a loyal family companion who loves with her whole heart. She trains the young ones around Bailiwick, she is so very smart. Spend one minute with her and it is obvious, she is "Over the Top", she truly has it all. Retrieve, yes she loves retrieving, ask her and you shall receive. She is a devoted companion who loves with her whole heart, will work all day, not a problem with her. At the end of a long day she is not hard to find, she will be right at your side. This beautiful gal was born dreaming if ducks and duck ponds. Radley is Mr. Personality, he will put a smile on your face. We can retrieve all day or we can just visit and be cool, either way not a problem for Radley. He is truly a pleasure to train, so smart just tell him once and he has it down pat!!!!! This is a very strong breeding.Her love is retrieving, if you have the time she has the energy. She is dedicated, loving and very smart. Training her is a pleasure. What a loving personality, she will put a smile on your face. This is a very strong breeding. Stella presents three National Champions in her pedigree

I have worked in the animal field throughout my lifetime and I received my medical knowledge having worked in the Veterinary field for more than 7 years. I went on to work with Guide dogs and VA service dogs. My European German Shepard's are fearless, agile, and very clever, inherently loyal, the German Shepherd dogs are happiest when they spend their time with their owner, never leaving their side. They yearn for companionship, and they thrive in a family environment. They become attached to children and other pets quickly, and they take excellent care of puppies, injured animals, and vulnerable people. They make excellent guide dogs, military service dogs, and search and rescue dogs. English Cream Golden Retrievers are smart, beautiful, and friendly. Having worked in the Veterinary field for more than 7 years and I have witnessed many genetic defects that could have been avoided with the proper testing; prior to breeding combining that with my numerous years of training different breeds for obedience, therapy, and service I strive for excellence in creating what I consider to be the perfect puppies, and achieving impressive results. Puppies are sold with limited registration. If you would like to purchase a puppy contact us for application and deposit information. Contact me for a applications. Nicole Fragale. We have answers. Am I limited to Brooklyn German Shepherd puppies for sale? Looking for your dream German Shepherd, Brooklyn? If you're looking for a certain type of dog, but can't find it in your area, don't worry! We work with breeders and businesses throughout the United States who are experts at transporting dogs. Most families who choose Uptown Puppies will have their pup flown to a major airport for pickup. German Shepherd puppies for sale? Brooklyn has the best! We are a network of ethical, humane breeders. When we screen breeders who wish to join our network, we look for a track record of top-notch breeding practices, caring for puppies, and excellent customer service. Breeders must adhere to our Breeder Pledge and have a no puppy mill policy in order to be part of our network. Are German Shepherds trainable for novice owners? What about the best German Shepherd puppies Brooklyn has to offer? German Shepherds are one of the most intelligent dog breeds, which makes them easy to train. They love to serve their owners and make great family pets. If you're looking for a loyal and hardworking pet, a German Shepherd might be the perfect choice for you. Looking for a dog that's perfect for you and your family? Then check out our puppy finder network! We carefully screen all of our breeders, ensuring that you get the best possible dog for your needs. What is a puppy mill? Do they have cheap Brooklyn German Shepherds for sale? Puppy mills are not all bad. In fact, some people see them as a better alternative to traditional dog breeds because they provide affordable puppies with good genes. Puppy mills also have a high rate of producing healthy puppies. However, there are some negative aspects to puppy mills. For one, the dogs in these facilities are treated like machines and have little room to exercise or socialize. This can lead to the dogs having undetected genetic issues due to poor breeding standards. Some unscrupulous breeders may tell you that it's perfectly fine to keep your German Shepherd cooped up. The truth is that German Shepherds need regular exercise and room to roam. Dogs that don't receive enough physical activity are prone to both destructive and antisocial behavior, so be sure your pup gets plenty of exercise! Are there any German Shepherd puppies for sale near Brooklyn? There are a lot of German Shepherd puppies out there that are perfect for someone like you. The only problem is that new and upcoming litters get taken up quickly on Uptown Puppies. If you see the German Shepherd of your dreams, it's important to act fast before someone else does! Are German Shepherd puppies near Brooklyn right for me? Well, that depends! Do you want a loyal dog who is intelligent and hardworking? The German Shepherd may be protective, but it's also very friendly towards its family. If that's the type of dog you are looking for, the German Shepherd may be perfect for you! Are German Shepherds good family dogs? Yes, German Shepherds can be quite intimidating to those who are not familiar with them. However, they make wonderful family pets and are very protective of their loved ones. They are also very friendly towards people they know, but will remain reserved with strangers. Proper socialization from a young age is key to ensuring that a German Shepherd remains calm and tolerant around other animals and humans. Where do German Shepherds come from? Are they only available from German Shepherd breeders near Brooklyn? The German Shepherd is one of the most popular working dogs in the world. Originating in Germany, this breed is known for its intelligence, obedience and strength. They are responsible for herding sheep and protecting flocks from predators, making them ideal companions for people who work outdoors. Are German Shepherds smart? German Shepherds are not only incredibly intelligent, but they are also incredibly trainable. They are considered the third-smartest breed of dog, according to a study that ranked intelligence based on each breed's ability to learn and obey commands. Because they're so smart, training is vital for German Shepherds. Without a solid foundation and continued training, your German Shepherd may spend his time outsmarting you rather than following your instructions. How fast can German Shepherds run? Where can I find the best German Shepherd for sale Brooklyn has to offer? German Shepherds are known for their speed. They can sprint briefly at a top speed of 30 miles per hour or run at a sustained speed of up to 15 miles per hour, sometimes for an hour or longer. Whether they're herding, working, or playing, their speed is impressive. Keep this in mind when out wandering as an off-leash German Shephard may be tricky to catch.

The socket is where the femoral head fits and also articulates. In unaffected dogs, the femoral head fits tightly into properly formed sockets. In severe cases of hip dysplasia in golden retrievers, there can be partial dislocation and bone spurs present on the rims of the sockets and the femoral heads themselves. So are all golden retrievers likely to get hip dysplasia? This survey has been tracking the prevalence of hip dysplasia since and allows you to examine the severity and frequency of hip abnormalities over time. We do know that golden retrievers are among other large breeds like Great Danes, German Shepherds , and Saint Bernards as being dogs that are primarily affected by hip dysplasia due to their size and breed characteristics. But there are some environmental factors that contribute to the likelihood of a golden retriever with hip dysplasia as well. Excessive, quick growth, too much exercise, the wrong nutrition, and injuries to their joints are all factors that will determine if and how much golden retriever hip dysplasia could affect your pup. Golden Retriever Hip Dysplasia Prevention Tips Your golden retriever is your family, and no one wants to see someone they love in pain. Prevents further breakdown in the joints. Reduce pain and inflammation in their hips. Improve the lubrication of the hip joints. Adding a joint supplement also helps your golden retriever with hip dysplasia to avoid further pain, so even if your golden has already developed this condition, supplements can offer tremendous benefits. But making sure you know how to read a supplement label is important so you can pick the right joint supplement for your beloved pet. Low Strain Exercises via GIPHY That means they love to get outside when possible and are just a little extra prone to excited zoomies around the house. But you have to be careful with your pup — getting the right amount and type of exercise is important if you are looking to prevent golden retriever hip dysplasia. Giving your puppy too much hard exercise like jogging, bike riding, agility, or hiking can further increase their risk of hip dysplasia. Plus, young and clumsy puppies are more prone to injuries, and more injury to the joints may mean an increased likelihood of developing golden retriever hip dysplasia. Instead of sporadic, intense exercise, your pup needs exercise that is: Consistent and low-impact Allows them to stay on a leash Promotes the stretching of hip joints Not sure where to start? Type of Exercise. References 1. Clinical and pathological effects Hip dysplasia HD is a disease of the hip coxofemoral joints. Dysplasia means abnormal development. Both hips are usually affected Brass .It is a complex disease that results from a combination of genes that predispose a dog to developing hip dysplasia interacting with environmental factors that lead to its full development and expression Riser .It is characterized by hip joint instability which, if compounded by environmental factors, then results in secondary osteoarthritis and the clinical signs of hip dysplasia which include pain, lameness and disability Zhang et al .To fully understand hip dysplasia, it is necessary to understand the structure of the hip joint. The hip joint is the joint at the top of the hind leg, where it articulates forms a joint with the pelvis. It is described as a ball and socket joint, as in normal hips the ball-shaped head of the femur the thigh bone fits perfectly into a cup-shaped socket in the pelvis, the acetabulum. The head of the femur femoral head and the acetabulum are normally covered with cartilage which produces a smooth, low friction surface. Within the joint there is also a fine layer of synovial fluid that acts as a lubricant between these cartilaginous surfaces. This thin layer of synovial fluid, along with the round ligament a ligament that runs round the edge of the acetabulum — between the acetabulum and the femur , keeps the two cartilaginous surfaces together by creating a suction-like effect. The ligaments and the joint capsule also help to hold the ball and socket closely together. In newborn puppies, because the bones are soft and not fully ossified turned into bone as they need to grow and develop, they are still deformable if abnormal movements or stresses and strains occur in them. Riser suggests that, in a normal six month old individual, ossification of the bones and soft tissue strength the strength of the surrounding ligaments, joint capsule and muscles have developed enough to prevent hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is described as a biomechanical disease. The hips appear normal at birth. However, in affected individuals, the hips develop abnormally due, at first, to joint instability sometimes called joint laxity Riser .This means that the developing femoral head and acetabulum are not held constantly, closely together, and can move into abnormal positions relative to one another. This puts abnormal stresses and strains on the joint. Riser states this is due to the soft tissues, such as ligaments and muscle, not being strong enough to maintain congruity between the articular surfaces of the femoral head and the acetabulum ie the constant contact between the surfaces of the bones is not maintained. Joint laxity the looseness of the joint, allowing abnormal movements of the parts relative to one another can lead on to joint subluxation partial dislocation of the joint on movement that in turn causes flattening of the acetabular cup and femoral head Shell and Harasen .The pathological changes seen due to the joint instability are progressive inflammation and degeneration of the tissues that together form the joint. Brass details the following changes in the joint: The joint capsule can become thickened and the round ligament can become stretched or ruptured leading to additional, excessive movements. The synovial fluid increases in volume and changes in nature, due to inflammation, this pushes the joint surfaces apart. The cartilage on the bone surfaces gets worn away exposing subchondral bone the layer of bone beneath the surface cartilage. Unlike cartilage, bone contains nerve endings and such exposure will commonly cause pain. The rim of the acetabulum becomes damaged and flattened and later new bone starts to grow here as the body tries to stabilize the joint. The femoral head becomes deformed and flattened and also grows abnormal bone called exotoses or osteophytes. This changing of the shape of the joint with new bone growing in abnormal positions, and being lost in others, is called joint remodelling. The signs that are seen with hip dysplasia can vary hugely in their severity, the age at which they first appear and their progression. In mild cases dogs can be free from clinical signs for years; however, for more severely affected individuals, signs of pain can develop whilst they are still immature less than a year old Signs include acute pain, particularly after strenuous exercise or movement. This may show as lameness or reluctance to jump, to go for walks, climb steps or move at all if really severe. The pain may be worse in cold, wet conditions Brass .These signs may start intermittently, but over time can become constant. Muscle wastage is often seen in the hind legs Brass .There appears to be little correlation between the severity of pain shown by the dog and physical abnormalities felt on examination by a vet or revealed on an x-ray Brass ie some dogs can be in severe pain but have few changes on x-rays and vice versa. This is typical of any joint disease. Controlling food intake during growth has been shown to decrease hip dysplasia in Labradors ie by reducing excessive energy intake and therefore excessive weight gain during growth Kealy et al .High calcium intake during growth has been shown to delay maturation of the skeleton and increase the risk of hip dysplasia in Great Danes Hazewinkel .It is thought that controlling the amount and form of exercise during development may also help Corr .Bennett and May suggest excessive exercise during development can lead to hip dysplasia. Treatment for hip dysplasia is complex; many surgical interventions have been developed to prevent signs appearing in young animals with high joint laxity and to treat dogs with severe osteoarthritis. All need specialist surgeons. Various medications to aid pain relief are also available, along with recommendations to reduce the effect of environmental factors. Return to top 2. Intensity of welfare impact Though some dogs may be mildly affected, for many Golden retrievers with hip dysplasia, the impact of the condition is a major and life changing. These animals suffer pain that is severe and debilitating, leading them to be in pain even with small everyday movements such as standing up. Their quality of life is severely affected so that they are unable to enjoy normal canine behaviours such as walking and running. It is not uncommon for dogs to be euthanased due to the pain and disability of arthritis associated with hip dysplasia. Return to top 3. Duration of welfare impact Hip dysplasia is a progressive disease with signs seen from any age. For some dogs pain starts before a year of age. Signs may be intermittent to start with but often progress to be constant. Medical treatment and advice can help control pain and possibly slow progression, though a cure can only be obtained with major surgical intervention in dogs that are considered suitable candidates for such surgery. Return to top 4. Number of animals affected Hip dysplasia is the most common joint problem of large dogs Smith et al .UK VetCompass data for dogs overall showed that 7. In this sample, diagnosis of conditions affecting pelvis eg hip dysplasia did not significantly differ between purebred and crossbred dogs. Figures vary greatly for how frequently Golden retrievers are affected by hip dysplasia, depending on the method by which they have been screened and the database reviewed. The frequency is likely to vary for different populations of the same breed Brass .Sturaro et al. Previous studies in the USA, using the OFA Orthopedic Foundation for Animals database, have given lower figures, but, Paster et al suggested that the OFA population was biased, as it is not compulsory for radiographed dogs to have their x-rays submitted to the OFA scheme so some vets and owners pre-screened them and only sent apparently non-dysplastic ones for consideration and scoring. Earlier studies in Europe and Canada suggested frequencies of hip dysplasia in Golden Retrievers of between .From data on estimates of total dog population in the UK and on the percentage of all micro-chip registered dogs that are golden retrievers Lucy Asher, , personal communication , we estimate that the UK population size of this breed may be around , Return to top 5. Diagnosis For a young dog suspected of hip dysplasia, a diagnosis can be made on the clinical signs shown at home and on examination of the dog, including assessment of joint laxity and joint pain plus evaluation of radiographs x-ray pictures of the hip joints Corr .Assessment of the joint laxity and radiographs may need to be performed by a specialist vet who is used to checking for this condition. For a formal diagnosis, the radiographs are usually submitted to a panel for evaluation. There are three methods of assessing joint laxity. Radiographs and assessment of joint laxity need to be performed under heavy sedation or anaesthesia Corr .Return to top 6. Genetics Hip dysplasia in dogs is a polygenic disease; many genes are thought to play a role in its development. Most of these genes probably have small additive effects quantitative, polygenes and some probably have larger effects Zhang et al .Currently, none of these genes have been identified. Wilson et al .Genes are not solely responsible for whether a dog with the genetic potential for hip dysplasia develops the condition. Environmental factors play an important part. They are discussed in the clinical and pathogenic effects section above. However, there are significant breed predispositions to this condition and the Golden retriever is one of the breeds affected. Return to top 7. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? There are a number of breeding schemes around the world developed to decrease the incidence of hip dysplasia in dog breeds. These schemes assess potential breeding animals in somewhat different ways. All aim to give breeders and owners a strong indication of which dogs are likely to produce healthy offspring and which should not be bred. However, this is by no means straightforward for hip dysplasia as it is a polygenic condition in which the genetics are poorly understood and which is also affected by environmental factors in a major way. This lack of clarity has produced much debate over the best way to assess potential breeding dogs. A brief summary of the various schemes follows including some current evidence for their benefits. All dogs must be at least 12 months of age. There are nine radiographic features which are scored, including the Norberg angle NA - a measurement for hip laxity taken from the EHR and each dog is given a score out of 53 for each hip total of up to for both. A low score indicates healthy hip joints e. Greyhounds would score 0, as hip dysplasia is not seen in this breed and a higher score indicates worse hip dysplasia. Breeders are recommended to only breed from animals with a score lower than the breed median score e. It is also based on an extended hip radiograph EHR , which is then graded by three independent experts to give an overall grade. All dogs must be over 2 years of age to be assessed. There are seven possible grades for the radiograph: excellent, good, fair, borderline, mild, moderate or severe hip dysplasia. Dogs must be between 1 and 2 years of age and the radiograph is graded by someone appointed by each breed club — they do not have to be an expert. Grades include: A- no signs of hip dysplasia, B — near normal hip joints, C — mild hip dysplasia, D — moderate hip dysplasia, E- severe hip dysplasia. Older dogs can be assessed but the likelihood of more secondary osteoarthritic changes is taken into account. Dogs from 4 months of age can be assessed. It involves the assessment of three different radiographic views of the hip joints called the distraction view, the compression view and the EHR. The radiograph must be taken by a vet who is registered with the scheme and the radiographs are assessed by vets at the PennHIP Analysis Center. Dogs with a DI lower than 0. Dogs with increasing DI values over 0. Dogs are ranked within their breed. Vets from the PennHIP scheme recommend breeding dogs with overall scores and DIs that are better than the breed average, to continue to try to improve the hips in the breed whilst not excessively narrowing the gene pool. If only dogs with normal DI were used ie those below 0. Advocates of the PennHIP method like it because it accurately identifies individuals who have hip laxity - the primary phenotypical abnormality that predisposes dogs to hip dysplasia. The other schemes only look at the EHR and though the NA can be measured from this, the NA has been shown to be an inaccurate method to assess hip laxity Culp et al .Much of what is assessed on the EHRs are secondary arthritic changes, these are not specific to hip dysplasia and are affected by many environmental factors. Recently, researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have confirmed that the Distraction Index DI is a significant risk factor for the development of hip dysplasia. In other words, DI scores give a very good indication of the likelihood of osteoarthritic changes, due to hip dysplasia, developing in the future Smith and others , , , Smith , Runge et al .These and other researchers argue that the other schemes are not as good at detecting animals that have hip dysplasia as the PennHIP method and, despite older schemes existing for over 40 years, little improvement has been seen in hip dysplasia in the general pet population Corley , Kaneene et al , Leppanen et al , Paster et al .In fact, one recent study looking at a database of over 1,, dogs found an increase in the prevalence of hip dysplasia Witsberger et al .However EHR scores were found to have a much higher heritability 0. Heritability studies are difficult to compare between different populations with different environmental influences. To improve the gene pool, phenotypic traits that can be easily detected with strong links to the genotype genetic make-up of animals have to be found. Ideally, any potential pet would have had its hip joints assessed by one of the above schemes prior to purchase, although this is often unhelpful, as most pets are purchased as young puppies. Unfortunately, this does not guarantee all their offspring will be free from hip dysplasia. .Certainly any potential breeding animal should be assessed prior to breeding using an appropriate scheme. Return to top 8. Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem Hip dysplasia is a complex trait which involves multiple unknown genes and environmental factors. Eradication schemes have been running in some countries for decades and still it is commonplace. Thus prospects for its quick elimination are low. In a recent study, Zhang et al suggested that using scores from four hip traits combined to create a breeding value for each animal would help speed up elimination of the condition. They felt that information on the single joint trait EHR eg the OFA scheme gave insufficient information to provide the basis for breeding decisions. The DLS is a measurement made from an x-ray taken in a weight-bearing position to measure the subluxation of the femoral head Farese et al .In this study on two populations of dogs where environmental factors were strictly controlled, heritabilities for all these traits were found to be relatively high eg heritabilities were 0. The researchers suggested these heritabilites were higher than expected due to the controlled environmental conditions. Zhang et al suggested an improved way for selectively breeding out hip dysplasia would be if breeders could be given breeding values derived from the four traits for each potential breeding animal, plus a measurement of the inbreeding of any potential mating e. This way, they suggest, inbreeding can be avoided and only animals with phenotypes strongly indicative of healthy hip joint genes would be bred from. This scheme is a more organised form of others that have suggested using a combination of breeding values determined from pedigree information and phenotype score Ginja et al , Hou et al .As described by Bell , when breeders are prioritising raising dogs that have good hip dysplasia genotypes for future breeding the phenotype has to be used as a marker for the genotype. Although the diagnostic signs can be affected also by environmental factors such as feeding and exercise regimes. It is important that the puppies are raised in a standard and not excessively protective way. Otherwise, dogs that would normally have developed radiographic signs of hip dysplasia will have this masked and their genes will be perpetuated. Future development of genetic tests to help identify some of the hip dysplasia genes, along with more use of pedigree data that includes the health of ancestors and progeny for clinical signs of hip dysplasia and also for other inherited defects of Golden retrievers , may well help to improve methods used to eliminate this condition. Currently we have to continue to rely on choosing phenotypical traits which apparently indicate the presence of healthy genes. Return to top 9. What You Need to Know Know the signs of hip dysplasia and whether or not your dog is prone to the condition so you can treat it early on. By Sarah Mouton Dowdy Sarah Mouton Dowdy writes for both pet parents and veterinary professionals and is passionate about meeting the needs of both to the benefit of all involved—especially the pets. With a master's degree in human health communication, she's particularly interested in the ways in which human and animal health overlap. Sarah's own health has been positively impacted by adopting a dog named Agnes whose tricks include sitting, staying, and stealing pizza from the kitchen counter. Updated on April 15, Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Jenna Stregowski, RVT Jenna is a registered veterinary technician with a range of veterinary experience that includes small animal internal medicine, oncology, neurology, emergency, alternative medicine, and practice management. As the Pet Health and Behavior Editor for Daily Paws, Jenna is living the dream as she combines her veterinary knowledge and passion for animals with her love of writing and education. Learn More Hip dysplasia in dogs is a common developmental condition in large and giant breed dogs. It's caused by a hip deformity that results in joint laxity, or looseness, and can lead to pain, mobility issues, and osteoarthritis. Though the condition is present from a young age, many dogs won't show clinical signs until they're older. However, screening your pet for hip dysplasia early on can give you an opportunity to treat the deformed joint before it causes problems. What is Hip Dysplasia? Canine hip dysplasia occurs when a dog's hip joint doesn't develop as it should. The hip is a ball-and-socket joint, and if the two components don't grow properly and at the same rate, it can result in a very loose, unstable joint. This may not sound like a big deal, but according to the American College of Veterinary Surgeons , hip dysplasia in dogs can cause serious problems. When a dog moves around with a loose hip joint, it can cause permanent damage to the joint's anatomy. If left untreated, dogs may develop osteoarthritis also called degenerative joint disease in the hip because the abnormal movement wears away cartilage and leads to the formation of scar tissue and bone spurs. Dogs can pass the condition to their offspring and large breed dogs are more prone to the disease. Commonly affected breeds include German shepherds , Rottweilers , golden retrievers , Saint Bernards , Labrador retrievers , and Newfoundlands. However, any breed or mixed-breed can develop hip dysplasia, and breed isn't the only risk factor. Puppies with a genetic predisposition for hip dysplasia are more at risk of developing the condition if they're given more food than they need, resulting in faster than normal weight gain and growth. Heavy exercise is another risk factor in puppies. Canine hip dysplasia can affect both young and old dogs, but not always in the same way. The Morris Animal Foundation divides the signs according to age of onset: Juvenile dogs younger than 18 months of age lameness limping in one or both of back legs bunny-like hopping dog holds its back legs together and hops instead of running normally difficulty getting up clicking sound from hips when moving or getting up shifting of weight to front legs unable to exercise for long periods Mature dogs older than 18 months of age history of lameness limping in back legs limping after exercising loss of muscle mass in one or both of back legs difficulty jumping or climbing It's important to note that while dogs can develop clinical signs as puppies, many don't show any outward symptoms until they've lived with the condition for multiple years. How is Hip Dysplasia Diagnosed? Your veterinarian may also use their hands to examine the hip and check for looseness. What is the Treatment for Hip Dysplasia? There are two common surgical options for dogs with hip dysplasia: total hip replacement, which involves implantation of an artificial hip joint, and femoral head ostectomy, in which the head and neck of the femur are removed and scar tissue forms to create a "false joint. Hip dysplasia home treatment is also often recommended for dogs with mild to moderate disease. However, it's important to note that NSAIDs like carprofen can have significant side effects and must be closely monitored. Other potential treatments include cold laser therapy, acupuncture , and physical therapy. Your veterinarian will work with you to determine the best options for you and your pet. Bear in mind that treatments often need to be adjusted over time, so be sure to follow your vet's recommendations for follow-up visits. These radiographs can help you determine how likely it is your dog will have problems in the future and whether you want to consider early surgical intervention. A veterinarian who knows your pet and can examine him in person is in the best position to offer information and advice. Was this page helpful? Hip dysplasia is a degenerative condition, which can affect any dog. Although the causes may vary, the effects are always the same: loss of mobility, increasing pain, impaired gait, and even behavioral and mood changes in your dog including snappishness and depression. Dysplasia is simply the dislocation of a bone from its proper place. Hip dysplasia or displacement is one of the best-known types of dysplasia in dogs. The degenerative process of hip dysplasia is gradual. The onset of symptoms, specifically pain, is also somewhat gradual taking place over the course of years. In simple terms, the two bones of the hip joint shift out of alignment. Perhaps because they are such hand-working structures, the ball and socket joints are prone to disease, and simple mechanical wear and damage over time. The muscles and joints become lax, and the joint capsule, a strong band of connective tissue which circled the bones for added stability, loses its elastic strength. As this happens, the articular working surfaces of the two bones lose contact with each other. The bones slowly separate as the soft tissues around the joint degenerate. The disease may affect one or both right and left hips. With the loss of protective scaffolding between the bone surfaces, the nerves in the bone endings themselves become exposed. When bone touches bone, there is acute pain. In addition, the loss of tensile strength of the supporting tendons, muscle, and cartilage means that other structures in the hip and leg must compensate in terms of weight-bearing and movement. This unnatural compensation may cause fatigue and pain. It may even cause the dog to injure itself—running to catch a Frisbee, or climbing stairs, for instance. What Causes Hip Dysplasia? Experts disagree as to the source of hip dysplasia in dogs. Too much food One theory is that feeding a young, growing dog too many calories early in its development contributes to the disorder. Too much exercise Another theory is that too much exercise, or the wrong kind of exercise, or simply too much high-impact exercise, such as fetching, jumping, and catching a ball or Frisbee on concrete, contributes to hip dysplasia. A factual observation about this condition is that hip dysplasia tends to affect large breeds more so than smaller dogs. This, too, is relative—it is possible for small dogs to become affected by hip dysplasia, too. However, we correctly associate the condition most frequently with big breeds. These breeds do carry a genetic predisposition toward the condition. It is also true that purebreds, especially large dogs, are most likely to become vulnerable to hip dysplasia, therefore calling upon informed and responsible breeding practices. Sometimes our decision-making process is clouded by emotion—guilt, fear, even panic when we see our beloved canine companion suffering. These are also common in dogs, attacking the cartilage, muscles, and membrane linings of cartilage and joints. These may offer your dog safe alternatives: calming inflammation as an immediate solution and helping to rebuild joint integrity as a long-range treatment. These trusted products can slow or even stop the degeneration of the hip joint. In many cases, hip replacement surgery which is the last resort may be prevented altogether. An X-ray examination will be recommended as a first step. If your dog becomes less active, weight gain may become a challenge. Eliminate treats, and if possible, offer your dog low-impact exercises like stretching and swimming. We Can Help. Does your dog have trouble walking, standing, or getting up? There is an excellent chance we can help your dog. This breed of dog is as loyal and as loving as they come. So, in order to ensure that your new, faithful companion lives a long and healthy life, there are some common medical issues Goldens face which you should be aware of. Unfortunately, Goldens, amongst a few other dog breeds, are predisposed towards joint problems a. Should it go untreated, it could severely impact both their overall health and well-being along with the length of their life. That said, if you know the common signs of hip problems and catch it early on, there are steps you can take to manage the issue, mitigate symptoms, or all together treat the problem. Below, we will discuss golden retriever hip problems, the signs, and treatment options at your disposal. The Universities Federation for Animal Welfare had this to say in response: The primary reason for this abnormal development is hip joint laxity if the joint is too loose; leading to the two articulating parts of the joint of the pelvis — the femoral head and the acetabulum which form the ball-and-socket of the joint - moving abnormally relative to one another; the femoral head in subluxation partly dislocating from the acetabulum. This leads to abnormal stresses and strains on the joint and leads to inflammation and degeneration of the joint tissues. According to the American Kennel Club AKC , Golden Retrievers were the third most popular breed in the United States in and have consistently been in the top 10 for the past decade. The total number of Goldens in households is difficult to assess, but approximately 50, are newly registered with the AKC each year. Based on their average lifespan of 10 years, the number of registered Goldens is , This number is estimated to represent less than 10 percent of the total breed population, as many are unregistered. In addition to their friendly, energetic, and likable dispositions, Goldens also are known for something else—hip dysplasia. Less desirable than their personality attributes, hip dysplasia is a complex, multifactorial condition that involves multiple genetic and environmental factors. This includes restricting juvenile animals from repetitive, high-impact activities. Per the statistics collected by the OFA, , radiographs for hip dysplasia have been evaluated since .Of those, the incidence of abnormal hip joints is approximately 20 percent. Again, this estimation is low, as many affected dogs do not have their radiographs submitted through the OFA. It was discovered that she has hip dysplasia through a proactive radiograph taken prior to her first visit to the Rehabilitation Service. Her owners are working closely with Dr. As her primary care veterinarian, Dr. What is hip dysplasia? Per Dr. The first is during skeletal immaturity when canines are between 6 and 14 months of age; these signs are predominantly due to loose hips. The second is when canines reach skeletal maturity 4- and years-old ; these signs are primarily due to osteoarthritis OA. Hip dysplasia diagnosis is made through a pelvic radiograph where veterinarians look at the hip socket acetabulum in relation to the head of the femur to determine if there is a proper fit or if there are any secondary arthritic changes. Once OA is present on a radiograph, dysplastic changes are irreversible and usually continue to progress over time. Kiszka leads Summer as she does figure-eights. Studies have shown that up to 76 percent of dysplastic dogs with osteoarthritic changes on radiographs are able to function and live comfortable, quality lives with conservative management. Conservative management includes exercise modification, physical rehabilitation, and anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications. For the cases in which canines do not respond to this method of management, surgery, such as a total hip replacement or femoral head and neck excision FHNE , may be recommended. Even with a prosthesis total hip replacement in place, or an FHNE, OA may still develop in the opposite hip joint and cause ongoing problems that require constant conservative or surgical management. With appropriate treatment, however, the prognosis for long-term comfort and function is good to excellent. Exercise modifications are typically tailored to avoid activities that cause limping and decrease high-impact type forces. If the dog is overweight, a weight-loss plan would be recommended as excess fat promotes OA. At-home exercises and rehabilitation help maintain muscle tone and strength while stabilizing the joint. The goals of the exercises are to help to maintain range of motion in the joint and prevent compensation, and promote body awareness, sense of proprioception, and core strength to avoid injury. Medical management involves anti-inflammatories, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and chronic pain medications. Additional medications may include injections that protect the joints. Treating the pain and inflammation in hip dysplasia patients is extremely important, as pain limits mobility, joint range of motion, and decreases quality and quantity of life. Kiszka helps Summer practice how to shift her weight on an uneven surface. Summer takes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and eats egg whites as a protein additive to her food. She starts her day with a 23—minute walk on the underwater-treadmill at 1. This speed and time equates to her walking approximately yards. The water allows Summer to bear only 70—80 percent of her body-weight, which lessens the impact on her hips, while she is walking. The water contact also increases sensation and the moving treadmill belt increases multiple-joint range of motion. After her water exercise, Summer rests before she begins therapeutic exercises. There are seven different exercises prescribed to Summer; based on her strength and mobility, her exercises vary each rehabilitation session. While exercising, she is monitored for signs of fatigue, pain, and poor posture, as the Rehab team pushes her to maximum potential to achieve the greatest therapeutic benefit. After she completes the exercises, she receives a therapeutic laser treatment of her hip and lower back region. The laser has factory presets for her weight, body type, and hair coat length and color. This type of laser therapy has proposed benefits of increased circulation and improved tissue repair with decreased pain and inflammation. How is Summer doing now? Summer walking on the underwater treadmill. Through the relationship among Dr. The early intervention allowed her to maintain mobility and quality of life for both her and her owners. Related Stories.

Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Height: 26 inches Ratio: .This should give you their height. For example, 26 inches times 0. Using the other example, .Since each dog is going to be different, you need to look at their overall body condition rather than a weight range. Fortunately, there are body conditioning charts that you can use to figure out if your German Shepherd is at their ideal weight. Just look at them from the side and from above, feeling for ribs and pelvic bones when necessary. Younger dogs will also typically be on the thin side before they fully fill out as adults. Years of line breeding has produced several distinct types of Shepherds. Show dogs are known for a sloped back in which the back legs are shorter than the front. This unnatural formation can cause back and hip problems along with an abnormal gait. German Shepherds bred for show will also be thinner than their hardworking cousins. As you can see in this picture, this is a show-bred German Shepherd with an obvious curved back and short back legs. Working dogs, on the other hand, are bred for a sturdy, straight back so they can work long hours without getting sore. They tend to be thicker than show dogs and will, therefore, weigh more, even at the same height. As you can see in this picture, this dog has a straighter back and longer back legs, so it has been bred for working. Something else I wanted to mention here is that, according to some sources, Black German Shepherds are larger than their bi-colored cousins, despite being otherwise the same. So, if you have one of these rare and beautiful creatures, you can follow the same charts that were listed above. If your German Shepherd is diagnosed by a veterinarian as underweight or overweight for their age, then the first thing you should do is ask him or her to help you figure out the underlying cause of the problem. This will determine what should be done next. Do you have a giant German Shepherd? What about a tiny one? Comment below to tell us more about it! About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. American German shepherds have straighter backs then German shepherds. If you have a german shepherd and their lineages are close to their German roots they will have that arch in their back. How about some details regarding their feeding habits, behavior, medical needs, grooming regimen, and exercise requirements? In this section, you will find everything you need to know to keep them healthy and assist with things such as toilet training and teething. She will discipline them and make sure they learn to be independent. They then begin to go to the toilet independently and venture away from mom. At week 8, they play, can be housebroken, and bark when startled. The famous GSD ears will start to stand up, and you can begin leash and crate training. They must be handled and groomed and realize that human commands and dominance are the norm. During this time, the mother will nurse the pups until they are old enough to begin eating puppy mush , which is softened kibble. Allow puppies to eat as much as they like at each meal. At 6—8 weeks, their first shot from the vet is due. Smith, Shutterstock 12 weeks is a turning point for your pup. Their coordination will come on in bounds, as will their learning and social skills. They will be eager to learn but easily distracted, so have plenty of patience. If you become angry, it will stunt development if they become fearful of you. Your pup is officially into the juvenile period now. All of his puppy teeth should be developed by now and are normally very sharp. So, beware of your fingers when playing. At 12 weeks of age, puppies can start to eat three to four set meals a day with measured amounts. Purpose-made dog-approved chew toys are best, not teddy bears or old shoes. As they grow through this period between three and six months, GSD puppies are more juvenile than babies. They will be more boisterous and energetic. But on the plus side will feed easily, be more friendly with animals and people alike, and more than likely be housetrained if you have managed them correctly. They will be stubborn at this age when training and could ignore you, or not come when called. The best approach is to ignore any sassy attitude and only praise and fuss when back to being obedient. His internal organs and systems are fully developed and functioning as they should, while the skeleton is still growing. His full set of adult teeth should be present and correct. Your GSD is now becoming independent and will want to roam different areas and interact with their world on many more levels. Be aware that they could weigh 50 lbs at 6 months, so caution is needed with control and safety as they explore. He may also seemingly forget commands that he has been taught. It is best to ignore, not mollycoddle, any fearful reactions to new things to not reinforce the negative behaviors. By 6 months of age, you can reduce the feedings to three per day, now paying attention to the total calories consumed. Between the ages of 4—6 months, he will shed his puppy coat too. He might still be a bit goofy, gangly, and stubborn when it comes to training. German Shepherd females are reaching sexual maturity at this age. They may have their first estrus heat period. So, be mindful of letting them off the lead during this time if other dogs are around. At 9 months, your GSD can be tested for heartworm and treated if needs be. Speak with your vet about this for more detail. You can add small amounts of solid adult formula into the puppy food to get him used to the texture. Making it the optimal time to stimulate them as much as you can with obedience training and work activities. Your GSD should be comfortable in all situations, and with all types of company as their bond with humans should be well established. Their unique personality and quirks should be apparent and set them apart as your dog. They will have developed vocal and body language traits that you recognize and use for their needs. If male, he will be reaching sexual maturity and cocking his leg when urinating. He might also be looking to challenge dogs and humans for the title of pack leader. The key to cementing all your hard work so far is to be consistently firm with any boundaries he tries to push. By 12 months, they should be on adult formula only. German Shepherds stop growing between 2 and 3 years. This is when they fill out too. It starts to slow at around the age of 1, but he will continue to grow until he reaches maturity. During this time, they are considered to be adolescents. This is the same for their mental maturity too. This is the same for all German Shepherd types. Females tend to mature faster, both physically and mentally, than male German Shepherds. There are different stages within this time frame before maturity. And these are the neonatal stage 1—2 weeks , the transitional stage 2—4 weeks , the socialization stage 4 weeks to 3 months , the juvenile stage 3—6 months , and the adolescent stage 6 months to 2 years. Research has shown that neutering dogs can affect their growth. But how exactly? But early indications show that early neutering can increase the length of time that the bone grows. Meaning potentially taller dogs. But this also poses questions about whether this affects the joint alignment and whether it can cause any problems. And for the German Shepherd breed and his heightened propensity for hip dysplasia, this is a concern to be aware of. But waiting for full skeletal maturity also poses risks. Because neutering for females can reduce mammary cancer. If spayed before her first heat, it can eliminate the chances of this type of cancer altogether. As they will be able to offer you tailored advice for your German Shepherd. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth The dangers of growing too fast can affect their skeletal development. Conditions caused by growing too quickly are joint dysplasia and osteochondrosis. By feeding him a kibble that is designed for large-breed puppies will help control the rate at which his bones grow. This is because they have the optimum ratio of calcium and phosphorus levels in the food. So, always feed him large-breed puppy food during his developmental stage. This is most common in German Shepherds, but also in some Labrador Retrievers. It is an inherited disorder of growth hormone deficiency, and it will make the affected pooch always appear puppy-like. Growth Distinctions of Different German Shepherds. As the German Shepherd growth chart suggests, a German Shepherd dog reaches full size and adult weight after one year. A growth spurt can occur between 1. The result of this late growth is an up to 10 percent increase in height and weight. Although you can consider a German Shepherd fully grown by one year, there may be additional factors that influence the growth of German Shepherd dogs. Is Your German Shepherd Healthy? Improper development can occur for many reasons. It could be as simple as your dog responding poorly to their dog food. Your feeding schedule and portions might not be sufficient. Your dog could also have a basic nutritional deficiency that you need to correct. Yet, being underweight or overweight can signify serious health problems. Weight loss can occur when the syndrome develops. Dogs typically show signs of EPI at between six months and six years of age. Parasites Dogs are highly susceptible to parasites. Deworming medication helps to reduce the risk. Yet, almost all puppies experience a parasitic infection at least once. Upon infection, your dog is at risk of serious weight loss and other troubling symptoms. Diabetes Mellitus Diabetes mellitus can affect any breed but has an above-average occurrence in German Shepherds. These dogs need insulin daily to accommodate for the inability to metabolize sugars. If your German has diabetes, severe weight loss can occur in a short period. Diabetes typically affects canines that are four years or older. It is the most common cancer in German Shepherds. Up to three percent will develop HSA. In most cases, this condition sets in at around nine to 12 years. Dietary Deficiency Do you have your German Shepherd on a raw food diet? Puppies often run underweight when receiving their nutritional requirements through raw meat. This diet is healthy and effective but needs monitoring, as not all dogs respond the same. Review the diet plan with a veterinarian and confirm there are no digestive or metabolic issues. Also, do not forget the importance of exercise! Clear Your Concerns with Coverage You put your heart into loving your dog like a child, but some things are out of your control. Health struggles can affect canines as much as humans. Even purebreds from AKC-certified breeders are not safe from serious health struggles both early and late in life. All you can do is prepare yourself to overcome complications. What if cancer happens? What else could happen? Peace of mind is great as a dog owner. Is coverage the answer? Get pet insurance quotes and see for yourself. Get Quotes for Your Cat Charitable Giving With every pet insurance policy we generate, we do our bit to help less fortunate animals across Canada and the U. Popular Articles. Frequently Asked Questions German Shepherds German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most popular breeds and are my absolute favorite breed. That's why I've had five in total, three boys and two girls. From their loyal and obedient personalities to their beautiful coats and markings, they bring joy to many homes, including mine. With impressive intelligence, these puppies are easy to train and make excellent companion animals. The German shepherd is a large breed, usually weighing between pounds for males and up to 75 pounds for females. Their coats require minimal grooming but will benefit from occasional brushing. German shepherds are very active dogs who love to run around; they need plenty of exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. They also enjoy activities such as agility training or nose work games where they can use their smarts! Factors Influencing Weight But what about their size? German shepherds can vary in size based on gender, age, nutrition, and because of their breeding. For example, a German working line shepherd is much more energetic than the more laid-back American show line dog. A puppy from working lines may weigh less than the average on the charts. Be sure to consider factors such as gender and environment when monitoring your pup's development. A good rule of thumb is that by eight weeks of age, a German Shepherd puppy should weigh between pounds, depending on the genetic factors mentioned above. By six months, most male puppies will weigh between 49lbs — 57lbs with an average weight of 53lbs, and a female will weigh between 44lbs — 49lbs with an average weight of 46lbs. For this reason, when consulting a weight chart for a German shepherd puppy, it's essential to understand the breed, lineage, and pedigree of the dog, as well as the sex of the dog. Our puppy weight charts are specific to German Shepherd Dogs and consider all these factors. It's an excellent tool for monitoring your pup's growth and health. These charts show the average expected weight range for male and female German shepherds at different ages, from puppies to adults. Knowing the expected range can help ensure your pup grows normally and stays within healthy boundaries. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. Our chart differs from others in that you can track your puppy's weight based on his actual weight at a point in time. Many other weight charts are either for non-specific breeds, or if they are specific to a German Shepherd, they only give you the averages and a range. While this is all useful and included in our charts, what is missing from many others is what weight your puppy will likely be based on his actual weight now. Most people bring their new puppy home at 8 weeks old 2 months. The range for a female German Shepherd puppy at that age is between lbs. As you already know your puppy's weight, you can estimate how much they are likely to weigh when older using our chart. For example, if your puppy weighs 14 lbs at 8 weeks old. To estimate how much they are likely to weigh at 6 months old, you would find that weight on the chart and follow it down to the 6-month-old row and see that she would most likely weigh 46lbs by the time she is 6 months old and 68lbs when fully grown. Of course, these are just estimates, and all puppies grow at different speeds, as will yours. Another way this chart is helpful is if, using the same example, your puppy weighs 14 lbs at 8 weeks old and then jumps to 49 lbs at 6 months old, instead of the predicted 46 lbs. In that situation, you would follow that new column down and see that she is now closer to weighing 70 lbs when fully grown. They are heavier-boned, more muscular, and have deeper chests. If you know what you're looking for, you can distinguish a male from a female German shepherd by looking at their heads, as a male is larger and have a more masculine look. Using the German Shepherd Puppy Weight Charts To use this chart, find your pup's current weight along the top and go down the left side of the chart to find his age. If he is in range, you can follow that column down to see what he will likely weigh at each age milestone. For example, if your male German Shepherd puppy weighs 18 lbs at 8 weeks old, then you would find the nearest weight at that age on the chart. In this case, it's .In this instance, he would weigh approximately .Under no circumstances should you try to adjust your dog's diet or exercise to fit in with the chart; it is merely a guide. German Shepherd Weight Chart for Female Puppies Female German shepherds, on the whole, have a much narrower head and nose and have an overall feminine look, especially around the eyes. If you know what you're looking for, you can guess whether they are male or female by looking at their face. Having said that, my girl, Ava, was very tall for a female and was often mistaken for a boy, even when she was wearing her pink collar and leash! But I still think her face was much more feminine than her brother Hudson's. This breed of dog has unique growth development. During the first three months of their life, a German Shepherd's body goes through a significant growth spurt. Typically, they can double their birth weight in the first week! At 12 weeks, you can expect your pup to weigh about pounds for a male and pounds for a female. This growth spurt will continue through five months old; by the time they're six months, you'll likely have a large, goofy puppy on your hands. After that initial growth period is over, you'll find that your German shepherd will gain weight slowly from then on out until it reaches its full adult size at around two or three years old. On average, female German Shepherds reach an adult weight of pounds, while males reach pounds. German Shepherd Puppy Height Chart German shepherds come in a range of sizes, some taller than others. It can be helpful to know the different heights of German shepherds to ensure that the one you choose fits your lifestyle and needs. When looking at a German shepherd height chart, it's essential to remember that males tend to be larger than females. Depending on where they were bred, most standard-sized male adults will stand between inches, while female adult German shepherds typically reach inches in height from paw to shoulder. Below is our height chart for German shepherd puppies you can use to estimate your puppy's height at each age milestone based on his starting or current height. It also includes the average percentage of adult height reached each age milestone. If your puppy's weight is outside the guidelines, it may be less of an issue than you think. Puppy weights can vary greatly depending on breed, genetics, and other factors included on this page. While ensuring your puppy receives proper nutrition and exercise is essential, several factors can influence their weight. One way to determine your puppy's adult weight is to check with your breeder. They can make an educated guess as to what your furry friend will weigh once they reach adulthood. A reputable breeder should have a good understanding of their dog's genetics and be able to provide insight into the typical size range of their litter. This information can give you a rough estimate of what weight you can expect for your German shepherd as they grow older. Another factor to consider when determining the adult weight of your pup is their parents' size, and again the breeder can give you much more information on this. You can also speak with your veterinarian about your puppy's overall health and development, and they may be able to provide some insight into their expected adult size. It's important to avoid becoming too fixated on your puppy's weight if they fall outside the standard guidelines. Don't worry if your puppy is a little bigger or smaller than listed here, and if you still want to determine their adult weight, you can also use the puppy weight chart for a large or giant breed dog here. Conclusion In conclusion,German Shepherds are a fantastic breed of dogs, and understanding their growth and development is essential for pet owners. Knowing the average weight and height of male and female German Shepherds can help you be better prepared for your new pup's growth. With the proper diet, exercise, and vet care, your German shepherd will be healthy and happy throughout their life. Keep in mind that these charts are only a general guide — every pup is different! A 3-month-old German Shepherd should weigh between 17 lbs - 26 lbs for a female, with an average weight of .For males, it'll be between 22 lbs and 30 lbs, with an average of 26 lbs. How much does a 5 month old German Shepherd puppy weigh? A 5-month-old puppy will weigh between 40 lbs - 49 lbs for a male with an average weight of .A female GSD puppy will weigh between 35 lbs - 44 lbs with an average of .When will my German shepherd puppy stop growing? Most German shepherd puppies continue growing until they are two or three years old. You might like these. However, there are certain breeds that are easier to train than others. Thankfully, German Shepherds fit into that category because they are very intelligent and quick learners. This includes house training , crate training , basic obedience commands as well as learning tricks. We recommend attending a puppy kindergarten class as part of your German Shepherd puppy socialization strategy. Once your pup knows their basic obedience commands, you can enroll them in Schutzhund training aka IPO. Partnership and teamwork between yourself and your dog are the basis for this type of training. Note that the Schutzhund environment is not a place for dogs with aggression issues, neither towards other dogs nor people! If they pass that initial level which includes a temperament test, they can move on to IPO 2 minimum age 19 months and IPO 3 minimum age 20 months. That said, protection dog trainers recommend starting training classes that include bitework and high jumps once your German Shepherd puppy is 12 months old. Dutch and Czech are two other languages that commands are frequently taught in. Stanley, my former long-haired GSD dog walking client, started going to Schutzhund training when he was a little over 12 months old. His owners practiced commands in German with him on a daily basis, and I remember getting a print out of his German commands as they asked me to use them on our walks as well. Lots, ha! German Shepherds need a minimum of 2 hours of physical exercise per day, but generally speaking, the more exercise you can provide your GSD with, the more they will thrive. Remember, German Shepherds are high-energy, athletic dogs bred to be active all day long, especially if they come from a working line! Physical Exercise Ideas for German Shepherds As far as physical exercise, this can be a mix of walks, runs, bike rides, fetch and playtime. This is Nala, one of my former pet sitting clients. She was crazy about frisbees and balls. One of my favorite ways of increasing the energy and calories a dog burns on a regular walk or hike is by using a doggie backpack. Mental Stimulation for German Shepherds Besides providing a good physical workout, dog backpacks also burn mental energy. As you probably know, bored dogs can quickly become destructive as they figure out ways of entertaining themselves. For example, chewing up your furniture and shoes, scratching doors, raiding your kitchen trash can or digging up your flower beds. So do yourself a favor and make sure your GSD gets plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Remember, a tired dog is a good dog, and that applies to German Shepherds as much as it does to any other dog breed! Former GSD client Remi pooped after a long walk. Bottom Line So, how big does a German Shepherd get? Well, German Shepherds are medium to large size dogs, so they can weigh anywhere between lbs. That said, the average expected weight for a male GSD is between lbs, and the average expected weight for a female GSD is between lbs. Both reach sexual maturity somewhere between months and are considered fully grown at about the 2 year mark. Keeping that in mind, your GSD breeder should be able to give you a good general idea of how big your German Shepherd puppy will grow to be! Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Barbara is a trilingual, something dog lover, e-book author, founder, copywriter, dog nutrition blogger and editor at K9sOverCoffee. Post navigation.

Life Span Did You Know? The Pug, or Pug Dog, is famous for its flat-faced appearance and large, soulful eyes. They are an ancient dog breed that originated in China over 2, years ago. They were originally developed as a refined pet of Chinese royalty along with the Pekingese and the Shih Tzu. During this time, the Pug was considered a national treasure that outsiders could only access if one was gifted to them. Dutch traders from the s can be credited with bringing the Pug onto the world stage when they brought some back to Europe with them. The Pug made its way to the United States in the s. Now, the Pug is a popular dog breed worldwide. They are a popular companion that provides their owners with plenty of love and laughter from their comedic and playful antics. The Pug is a playful and outgoing dog breed with a charming personality. They tend to be very loving towards children and also get along well with other pets and dogs. They are a companion breed at heart known for their gentle nature and sociable personality. They love to give love and receive it in return. Their sensitive nature makes them intuitive as well and Pugs will often sense the moods of their owners and react accordingly. They crave attention and affection from their owners and are big fans of napping. This dog breed is often described as an ideal house dog and they are moderately adaptable. They will do well in homes of any size, including apartments. The Pug also adapts well to city or country life and are a good fit for singles or families of any size. Although they are highly adaptable to various living situations, they are less adaptable to climates. Pugs are very sensitive to the heat and overexertion, so they are best-suited to moderate climates. They also love to be with their families and will not be happy if left alone for a long time. As with any dog breed, the Pug has some health conditions to be aware of. In particular, corneal ulcers and dry eye are some potential eye problems that can occur. Additionally, Pugs can be susceptible to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and encephalitis. Asking the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and to see health clearances can help allay concerns for some of these health issues. Pugs are also big foodies. They love to eat! Their love for food means this dog breed is prone to obesity. As a brachycephalic dog, their large head and short snout often cause respiratory problems, which can limit their exercise at times and contribute to weight gain. This will cause them to quickly gasp and snort, which can sound relatively alarming. These episodes are usually not harmful as your Pug is just clearing their palate and throat. The Pug tends to be easy to train and is a good fit for owners of any experience level. They are eager to please their owners and tend to pick up on commands quickly. They are sensitive souls and their feelings can be hurt easily, so they will not respond well to harsh corrections. This dog breed responds best to consistent training that focuses on positive rewards and will benefit from participation in puppy training classes. Pugs have a smooth, glossy, and short coat. Their fur is fine and soft. Although their coat is generally low-maintenance, it will shed throughout the year. Aside from brushing, Pugs only need occasional baths on an as-needed basis. Because Pugs have ears that drop down, they can be susceptible to moisture, dirt, or debris. Checking their ears regularly and cleaning as needed helps to keep them healthy and comfortable. The same goes for their iconic face wrinkles. Daily brushing is ideal, but if your Pug is not allowing you to do that, a few times a week should be sufficient. Getting your Pug used to these grooming tasks as a puppy will help make it a positive bonding experience and a much easier process throughout their life. This dog breed has a low to moderate energy level. Generally, daily walks and some play sessions are enough exercise for this dog breed. They may have short bursts of energy as they have a very playful nature, but they will tire easily. Some Pugs can handle a little more activity and even compete in some dogs sports like agility, rally, and obedience. Make sure you check with your vet first before jumping into dog sports with your dog. A full-grown Pug will usually stand 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 14 and 18 pounds. This dog breed generally lives for years. The Pug was a popular pet of the Buddhist monasteries in Tibet. Featured Pug Article. To get the most out of your experience in talking to pug breeders you need to know how to classify quality dogs that are being sold by the best breeder. Do your research and list down the things you have learned about the breed and the breeders. You need to have a set of conditions or a checklist of what you are looking for in a pug and in a breeder. You need to be clear on what to expect from pug breeders before you start talking to local stores, online shops, or looking for referrals from other pet parents. You can check their site at the address below and visit their website to know more about them, about a pug puppy listing, and the amazing things they do. They are reputed in the Florida area and their owners have been doing great things to make sure that the pugs being released are at their optimal health, friendly, and ready to socialize with people. Confirm with them if they are a pug breeder that is AKC registered. These companies are respected and recognized by dog clubs and dog communities. Search for a pug breeder in Orlando FL or nearby areas. They have a list of pug puppies for sale and are connected with reputable breeders. These websites vet their members and are approved by the local dog clubs. They have a list of questions to ask breeders when you make a purchase. Tips for Selecting the Best Pug Puppies Here are some tips you can apply in searching for the best pugs for sale in Florida. Ask Around Ask around for referrals from your friends or if there are any local dog clubs for the breeders they know or a pet store with connections to a pug breeder they know about. Having someone you know personally vouch for a breeder is a great step ahead in your journey. Try to determine which one is closest to you. If you are based in Orland FL, it may not be a good idea to take the time and drive in the opposite direction if you have pug breeders lined up and close to each other. A good breeder is your best chance of getting the perfect pug puppy for your home. Reputable and ethical breeders will take the time to know you and will ask you questions related to your interest in getting pug puppies. Perfect puppy breeders will ensure their pug puppies for sale will be raised in a good and loving home. They will try their best to know if the buyers have the well-being of the puppies as their greatest interest. If a pug breeder is no longer an option, you can also go to pet shops, rescue centers, and animal shelters and ask if they have pugs available for adoption. These places are also good sources of information for reputable breeders in the area. Screen Pug Breeders This is the most important step to get right. A legitimate breeder will provide a perfect puppy that has a complete health record or a health certificate. A true dog breeder will not hesitate to provide a health guarantee for every pug puppy to be released. Search for local breeders and take note of their contact details, office addresses, and office hours. Call ahead of time and schedule an appointment. Once you are in their shelter, look for signs or red flags. If you already have a prospective puppy, try to interact with it to see how it engages with you. Remember that legitimate breeders will keep their puppies happy and energetic. Create a List of Questions to Ask Prepare a list of questions to ask about the pugs for sale and about the local breeder ahead of your visit. Ask questions about the general health condition of the puppy, its parents, and health records. You can also request to see the parents of the pug puppy and get a good look at their current health condition and ask if the pug puppies for sale or the parents are AKC registered. Pugs that are mixed breeds tend to develop respiratory conditions and problems with weight. Other questions you can ask are if the breeder provides the health guarantees or if the pups will be crate trained upon release and many other questions along those lines. Check the Pug Puppies that are for Sale Confirm if the available pug puppies for sale are in their optimal health conditions. If you can, make it a point to take a vet with you when you visit pug breeders to check on the pug puppies. If the puppies are already vet checked, ask for the contact details of the vet who checked the puppies. Avoid puppy mills at all costs. They do not practice ethical standards on raising pug puppies. A puppy mill will release unhealthy puppies and will not consider the overall health of both the parents and the fawns. They also supply mixed breeds and never purebred pugs. Check if they have the updated vaccines and if they have been de-wormed. Female pugs are heavy shedders especially if they have become mothers to week old pug puppies. Pugs shed hair all year round, so be ready for that. Puppies shed more in their early stages. Make note of how fast and spontaneous the breeder answers your question about the health of the pug puppies. A reputable breeder will have no trouble answering these types of questions. Know What to Look for Look for energetic and cheerful pug puppies. Healthy and friendly pugs are excited to see new people. Look for pug puppies for sale that have a nice, positive temperament. Also, look for vaccination cards, AKC papers, registration papers, and the health certificate of the pug puppies for sale. Be wary of mixed breeds listed as purebred pug puppies for sale. If the pug for sale is under the color unrecognized category, chances are, the breeder is selling you a mixed-breed puppy. Compare prices among legit pug and dog breeders. If the prices are too low or become too high, you may not be getting what you are paying for. Conclusion Getting a pug for your home is a decision you will never regret. They are among the best things you can have in the world. Pugs are reliable and provide the best companions. They are sensitive to your emotions and are dedicated to providing the comic relief you needed after a stressful day. Here are some of the other topics we have created to help you search pugs for sale by location. Our staff are avid fans and dedicated owners of Pugs. We hope to answer all the questions you have about Pugs. Just read and enjoy. Feel free to share if you find it valuable to others! Best regards, Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Why do I want a show lines pug puppy? I'm only looking for a pet. Experience the ultimate joy of owning a pug puppy from Companion Pups! We go beyond the conventional notion of keeping show-quality pugs exclusively for show homes. We believe that everyone deserves the absolute best when it comes to their furry family members. Pugs were bred to be people's companions, and we are passionate about bringing that exceptional companionship to your home. Purebred doesn't always guarantee superior breeding or adherence to pug standards. That's why our show lines ensure that you not only get a pug with the correct look but also the perfect personality, temperament, and size. Our show line puppies possess a special charm that makes them thrive in a multitude of environments which makes for the best family companions ever —happy, playful, and confident, without being hyper or spastic. They are intelligent, attentive learners, embodying the chunky, wrinkly look and adorable nose roll that pug enthusiasts adore. By choosing a show line puppy from us, you're selecting a well-balanced, fun-loving, and fiercely loyal companion that exceeds all expectations. Experience the beauty and trainability wrapped up in the healthiest pug puppies. Our AKC and International lines are health tested and our pugs are pre-spoiled, ensuring a delightful addition to your family. Welcome to Companion Pups, the home of the Kisses' Line of Pug Puppies, where our pugs literally give you kisses and are eager to shower you with love and affection! We'd also like you to know you can always expect a quick response from us as well so you are never left waiting and wondering when you'll hear back. It's our goal to be here when you need us for the life of your pug. Welcome to the Companion Pups family! Why Is My Dog Shaking? Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, but when they start shaking, it can be a cause for concern for pet owners. Shaking in dogs can be a sign of various issues, from dog anxiety and dog fear to dog medical conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of a dog shaking and what pet owners can do to identify and treat the problem. We will also offer tips for preventing dog shaking and ensuring.By doing regular grooming at home, you can help your dog look its best between visits to the groomer. You also get to bond more closely and build stronger trust with your dog. Routine grooming sessions will keep your dog clean and feeling fresh, but it will also.Their personality is lively, their nature fun-loving, and their disposition affectionate. As even-tempered, sweet, and playful dogs, Pugs make wonderful playmates for kids of all ages and lovely companion pets for couples, singles, and seniors. These little joy bringers love to cuddle and are generous with their Pug love. When it comes to their family, Pugs attach like magnets. They are known to happily shadow their humans in every activity and are just as happy lazing on the couch all day as they are going for a long evening stroll around the neighborhood.

Conclusion How many calories does your German Shepherd need? German Shepherds were bred to work all day herding livestock, which makes them high-energy dogs who are active both physically and mentally. This means that adult German Shepherds need a high-calorie diet of at least 1, calories to give them the energy to run as well as stay sharp. How many calories does your German Shepherd puppy need? As your German Shepherd puppy grows and seems to have an endless energy supply , she needs a calorie-rich diet. According to the National Research Council of the National Academies, a puppy needs twice as many calories per pound of body weight as an adult of the same breed. So, an adult German Shepherd weighing 70 lb needs about 20 calories per lb per day. That would mean that a German Shepherd puppy who will reach 70 lb as an adult needs 40 calories per lb per day. I advise you to discuss this with your vet and work out an accurate amount for your puppy. How often should I feed my German Shepherd puppy? As for a feeding schedule, once your pup is on solid food at about 4 weeks old , you should be feeding her 4 meals a day. At 4 months old, you can reduce this to 2 or 3 meals a day, and continue with this routine into adulthood. Common health problems in German Shepherds - how diet can help them Elbow and hip dysplasia Unfortunately, the primary health concern for German Shepherds is hip dysplasia , which is a malformation of the joint. It is a condition that can get worse if your dog is overweight or obese, so keeping her at a healthy weight is imperative. Another thing that can help this condition though, of course, will not cure it is to look for dog foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin which are both natural substances , as they stimulate the body to repair damaged cartilage. Bloat Large dogs like German Shepherds can suffer from bloat, which is a serious and sometimes fatal condition. It occurs if your dog is very active just after eating, or if your dog eats a very large amount in one go. For this reason, it is highly important that you feed your German Shepherd 2 or 3 small meals during the day instead of in one large sitting, and let her rest for at least half an hour after eating before letting her play or do any physical exercise. Nutritional requirements for German Shepherds — a macronutrient breakdown So how can we tell which is the best dog food for German Shepherds? Well, we need to look at a breakdown of what the nutritional requirement is for the breed regarding how much protein, carbohydrates, fat and vitamins and minerals she needs. Here they are, in descending order: Protein Dogs that are large, muscular and active like the German Shepherd need especially high amounts of protein, as they use it to keep their muscles strong and can also burn it off as energy. It is also essential for your German Shepherd's coat health. Her coat which is double, and usually long is mostly made up of proteins, so she needs a high amount for it to grow and stay healthy. How much protein does she need? You must check with your vet to get an exact figure for your dog. German Shepherds also need the right amount of fat to keep its long coat shiny and skin well-moisturized. Not only this, but such an intelligent dog will benefit greatly from those omega fatty acids, which aid her cognitive function. Carbohydrates As already mentioned German Shepherds are active, so some carbs should be present in her dog food. Many dogs, including the German Shepherd, can have allergies to grains like corn, soy, and wheat, however, so I would advise you to go for a dog food that sources their carbohydrates elsewhere. You could try her on whole grains like brown rice, barley, and oats, which are all good quality carbs. If you find these don't agree with her either, go for a grain-free food that uses vegetables such as sweet potatoes as the source of carbohydrates. Vitamins and minerals Your German Shepherd needs vitamins and minerals to keep her coat and immune system healthy. Not only this, but the antioxidant properties found in Vitamin C and E also serve as good brain food for her. Just as we do, she can get these from fruits and vegetables. A good choice of dog food will contain a variety of these. Additionally, the formula is often described as the best german shepherd puppy food on the market due to its inclusion of DHA — an omega-3 fatty acid that works wonders in ensuring your pup will have optimal visual and cognitive development. The proprietary formula is bursting with prime ingredients, one such example being chicken fat; a fundamental staple in dog food for providing essential fatty acids for your Shepherd, as well as improving the overall palatability of the kibble recipe itself. You can certainly discern the exclusive nature of this formula from their incorporation of live, naturally occurring microorganisms probiotics that will help your German Shepherd digest their beloved dog food. Best Dog food for German Shepherds Buying Guide Are you feeling confident with the first-rate formula you've chosen for your dog from our comprehensive list, yet not so sanguine with regard to the knowledge you need to confidently raise your German Shepherd from a puppy to a boisterous adult? Read on to have your concerns answered in our buying guide and FAQ. For example, hand-picking dog food that lists "poultry meal" aren't going to satisfy your dog's nutritional needs in comparison to those that specify "chicken meal". High-protein content: Like all large dogs, the first ingredient on any dog food's ingredient list should be a protein-based nutrient such as chicken meal, egg protein, or beef byproducts. It is essential that your dog receives substantial amounts of protein, as a large breed like German Shepherds require it to build strong bones and joints. Although plant-based protein sources are also recommended, your dog does not possess the biochemical adaptations to digest them properly. For a senior dog struggling with the effects of aging e. For puppies, omega-3 fatty acids help strengthen their brain and, consequently, advance their ability to learn. How many artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives are in this formula? Contrarily, you'll certainly be upset when discovering that many artificial colors can be injurious to your dog's health — even, in some severe cases, causing migraines and cancer. It's important to note that food terminology such as 'natural' and 'organic' is tossed around without a second thought in the dog food industry, whereas in human food, the distinction is much more clear-cut. In other words, the stomach rotates on its axis, interrupting the flow of food and water occurring between the esophagus and the duodenum. As a result the stomach becomes bloated, obstructing veins in the abdomen and potentially damaging the dog's internal organs. German Shepherds in particular are prone to this condition due to their large, deep chests. Therefore, if you see signs that your German Shepherd may be bloated — for example, gagging after they eat, an extended stomach, or lethargy — your German Shepherd must be taken to a vet immediately. There will be very little time, ranging from minutes to hours, to get medical attention for your German Shepherd, so act urgently. Hip Dysplasia: When it comes to common health issues in German Shepherds, hip dysplasia is the most common. Joint health in these dogs is poor due to inbreeding at the outset of breed standardization, and because of the size of these dogs. Hip Dysplasia is a hereditary disfigurement of the hip that brings the dog much pain and is incredibly difficult to treat. To prevent hip dysplasia, take your German Shepherd on short walks and always favor moderate exercise to keep their joints loose. Our Top Pick So, out of all the reputable brands showcased to you today, what dog food would we choose to ensure our German Shepherd is the happiest and healthiest the possibly could be? As part of the family-owned Diamond Pet Food company, Taste of the Wild have access to scientifically advanced, state-of-the-art facilities in America that have allowed them to create species-specific proprietary probiotics , minimizing any risk of your Shepherd developing gastrointestinal disorders. Full to the brim with superfoods, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids, all the reputable ingredients within this formula are sourced from long-established and trustworthy suppliers. Finally, with real roasted lamb as the primary ingredient, you'll never have to encourage your German Shepherd to finish up their meal — if anything, this delectable formula will be wolfed down without even a second thought! A: You should switch your German Shepherd puppy from puppy food to dog food when they are around 12 months old. However, the switch entirely depends on their growth and development. Therefore, you should seek advice from your veterinarian on when to make the switch. Q: How many calories does an adult German Shepherd need per day? A: According to the National Research Council of the National Academies, an inactive or senior adult German Shepherd must be fed between 1, and 1, calories of prime dog food every day. Correspondingly, the council recommend feeding active German Shepherds between 1, and 2, calories. Q: What types of food should never be given to German Shepherd dogs? A: Fruits: Many owners may be unaware that fruits such as raisins and grapes are toxic to dogs due to the cyanide in their seeds. If ingested, these fruits may induce kidney failure in your pup. Accordingly, keep them away from your pet at all costs. High fat foods: If improper ingestion of high fat foods occurs, this may lead to pancreatitis — a dangerous condition in which the pancreas becomes inflamed. Dairy: As the majority of dogs are lactose intolerant, never give in to their puppy eyes and offer them a lick of your ice cream. Related Reads. Rated 5 out of 5 by StephanieW from Love the food but confused about ingredient label! My rescue GSD loves the High Prairie food, and it has done wonders for her overall appearance - her coat has thickened and softened so much - and she's so playful and happy. Easy on the tummy, too. She never gets sick eating it. My friend uses the High Prairie puppy formula. My only confusion is over the labeling. Not a lot of dog foods include it. However, when you look at the actual label on the bag, taurine is omitted. Date published: Rated 5 out of 5 by Mabel P Stewart from Never been so happy to see my dog eat! Mabel is a 6 month old GSD mix puppy. Mabel was having some stomach problems, wasn't interested in eating, had started to lose weight because she was vomiting up the food we had her on at the time and no it wasn't cheap stuff , and also has a sensitivity to chicken. We took her to the vet and had a barium swallow and x-rays done just to be sure there wasn't an obstruction. Everything came back normal. So we bought a bag and after a few days on this food she is excited to eat, dances around her food dish, has more energy, and is back to acting like an energetic puppy! Our Dogs Love it. .She is 7yrs old now. She Does Great on it. We are going to cut back and see if that Does the Trick. If not will be switching to small breed adult TOTW. .Thank You For a Great Product. .Date published: Rated 5 out of 5 by Molly from My owner was away from his computer.Hi, my name is Molly. My owner switched me over to this after arriving at my new home. I must say, I really like the taste! I also love the ingredients… no corn or other grains to upset my little tummy, and the first ingredient is buffalo… yummy! There are also lots of vitamins and other good things to keep me healthy. This is my first Amazon post, and I hope my review will help other dogs who see this post make a smart decision when considering puppy food. Thank you for reading, and tell your owners about this. We changed our girls food to Taste of the Wild Puppy and could not be more pleased!!! The food has made our girl look so healthy!! The big surprise is that as most knows a German Shepard sheds a lot of hair but feeding her Taste of Wild has reduced the shedding to a minimum!!! Wow we are so grateful to be able to get this good food for our baby and to see how healthy she looks!!!! Date published: Rated 5 out of 5 by Mazza from Perfect Pup food We rescued a 4 month old puppy from a hoarding situation. She was horribly under weight, her fur and skin were in bad shape. We have been feeding our other dogs Taste of the Wild for years. We had never used the puppy formula before so we gave it a chance. We were impressed with how quickly our little girls put on weight, thickened her very short coat, and how soft her coat became. Date published: Rated 5 out of 5 by pvtcarlswife from the only food i will feed my pets We had a heart dog who owned us for 14 years. They both love the food, they both are healthy and thriving, we did get them very young as the person that had them was ready for them to be gone at 4 weeks, they were eating TOTW Puppy High Prairie from 4 weeks, they are now 14 weeks and are active and healthy puppies. We also feed TOTW to our 2 cats. Date published: Rated 5 out of 5 by Shachafit from Picky and sensitive pup loves it I have a czechoslovakian wolfdog pup, and ever since I brought her she never liked any of the dry foods I tried and always had diarrhea. Following many frustrating months, I contacted a breeder from abroad and she highly recommended feeding my pup with taste of the wild. My pup loves it and the diarrhea stopped almost immediately after she began eating this food, she gained lots of weight and her fur became lovely. Date published: .Large Comfort Care — For dogs who are skittish and have nervous behaviors. Large Joint Care — For dogs who need support for joint health. Coat Care — For dogs of all sizes with dull and lackluster coats. Large Digestive Care — For dogs with sensitive stomachs. Large Dental Care — For dogs who are prone to tartar. Large Weight Care — For dogs who are prone to gaining weight. Large Sensitive Skin Care — For dogs with dry coats and sensitive skin. Taste of the Wild for German Shepherds Taste of the Wild has somewhat of a reputation for being an artisanal brand. It is a proudly family-owned company that offers premium dog food at fairly affordable prices. As a company, their competitive advantage lies in their belief that our pets should eat the way nature intended them to. Dog food by Taste of the Wild contains not only high-quality protein sources but also filler-free carbohydrates. Additionally, they put great emphasis on probiotics to achieve optimum gut health. Although they have some puppy variants, most of their products differ primarily in the main protein source and, consequently, flavor. Apart from flavor, the best choice for your German Shepherd would be based on their sensitivities and allergies. For example, some Taste of the Wild recipes are egg-free. Reason for asking is the facts sections talks about cups. Asked by: Lilly Hi, Lilly. In this case, .The cups you read about in the FAQ section is in reference to our dry formulas. Answered by: Taste of the Wild Date published: Can I feed this to my toy breed puppy and what serving size? It contains bison, lamb and venison for a blend of quality animal protein sources. For puppies, we recommend feeding up to two times the recommended adult feeding amount. As your puppy gets older, gradually decrease the amount to the adult amount. Answered by: Taste of the Wild Date published: Are you not making the canned dog food anymore? I have been unable to find it in any stores around here. Asked by: lilly Hello, thanks for contacting us. We have not discontinued our canned pet foods. Unfortunately, they have not been able to meet customer demand, which has resulted in inventory shortages. We anticipate that we will have appropriate stock by early spring and will begin shipping product once our formulas are replenished. We apologize for the inconvenience. Answered by: Taste of the Wild Date published: Our dog needs a low sodium diet, but he loves Taste of the Wild canned foods. Can you share how much sodium is in them? Asked by: Kari Hi, Kari. Answered by: Taste of the Wild Date published: We have fed this formula in the dry form, twice a day to our dogs. We have realized that our 15yo pug will have to be switched to canned food, due to her having few teeth. She weighs 17lbs and is not very active. How much canned daily should she get? Asked by: carrie Hello, Carrie. We recommend adjusting the amount you feed based upon her activity levels and whether she maintains or gains weight. Answered by: Taste of the Wild Date published: I have an older 11 year old Goldendoodle that is not eating his dry food as well anymore. Wish to try the canned food. How much should an inactive older dog eat a day with the canned food? Our feeding guide located on each can and product page is often a good place to start. CT weekdays. If you plan to mix both canned and dry food, be sure to monitor the calories to ensure you are not overfeeding. Additionally, your veterinarian can help you determine the best feeding plan for your Goldendoodle based on his needs. Answered by: Taste of the Wild Date published: Is this ok to give to my 8 wk old puppy? All of our Taste of the Wild canned recipes are formulated for growth and maintenance, and are suitable for puppies. Please note the feeding guide, as puppies require higher amounts than adult dogs. In addition, our two dry puppy recipes would be great options for your puppy! Both our High Prairie Puppy recipe and our Pacific Stream Puppy recipe were developed with the needs of growing puppies in mind. The recipes contain specific nutrients like added DHA that aid in brain and eye development. Answered by: Taste of the Wild Date published: .If so, the German shepherd dog would certainly qualify. Multitalented and eager to work, German shepherds have held a wide array of jobs over the decades, from herders and guide dogs for the visually impaired to police dogs that apprehend criminals and detect illegal substances. No wonder the German shepherd has so many fans. A little history At the end of the 19th century, a German cavalry officer by the name of Captain Max von Stephanitz admired German herding dogs but noted they varied in appearance by region of the country. He made it his mission to create the ideal herding dog. His search for the best breeding stock took him to a dog show in , where he found a wolf-like canine with upright ears and yellow and black markings named Hektor Linksrhein. He promptly purchased the dog and changed its name to Horand von Grafrath. Throughout the years, the club worked to create breed standardization. The information in this blog has been developed with our veterinarian and is designed to help educate pet parents. If you have questions or concerns about your pet's health or nutrition, please talk with your veterinarian.