german shepherd mastiff mix puppies for sale

Maybe you picked up your dog from the groomer only to find a shaved Goldendoodle waiting for you. Is it safe for them or will it harm their coat? No matter which situation you find yourself in, this article will tell you the things your groomer WISHES you knew about shaving your Goldendoodle! Along with this debate comes the spread of various myths and misinformation. In the vast majority of cases, shaving a Goldendoodle will NOT harm their coat. There are two exceptions to this rule—Goldendoodle puppies and flat coat Goldendoodles should both NOT be shaved. Goldendoodle puppies have a thin, soft puppy coat that will eventually be shed and replaced with their adult coat. Doing so may cause permanent damage to their future adult coat. If your Goldendoodle has straight hair and lacks furnishings , they may have a double coat which should NOT be shaved. If your Goldendoodle sheds , this is also a good indicator that they may have a double coat. Shaving a double coated Goldendoodle can result in permanent damage as well as a reduced ability for your dog to regulate their body temperature. Double coats provide insulation from both the cold and the heat. However, the vast majority of Goldendoodles have only a single coat and are able to be shaved with no risk of health issues as long as they are adults. Photo courtesy of ted. While I can totally understand the disappointment, their frustration may be misdirected. Your groomer likely had your Goldendoodle shaved because their hair was severely matted. Matted hair is extremely uncomfortable and even painful for your dog to tolerate every day. While minor matting can sometimes be brushed out, once it gets past a certain point it can put your dog in more pain to attempt this. Shaving now becomes your only option. A severely matted Goldendoodle in the process of being shaved. Photo courtesy of sitstaystyle on Instagram. For some perspective, below is an image of my Goldendoodle, Chewie. The photo on the left was taken after he was recently shaved. The photo on the right was taken about 3 months later. However, matting is usually avoidable by making sure you brush frequently, brush correctly, and use a good-quality brush. Goldendoodles should be brushed at least every other day if not daily. If your dog is getting matted, one step to take is to simply increase the frequency of your brushing. Your Shaved Goldendoodle is Still Cute! At the end of the day, our dogs are still adorable—shaved or not! While these short summer cuts are slightly longer than shaving down to the skin, the end result is fairly similar! Related Questions Should Goldendoodles Be shaved? This is the first question to ask yourself. Goldendoodles are a double-coated breed. This means they have very fine hairs under the long, protective hairs. These hairs actually help protect the Goldendoodle from both heat and cold, in a sense. So before rushing to have him or her shaved at a pet store, make sure you understand what is going to happen. During the summer months, your Goldendoodle will actually lose the undercoat of the finer hairs. This will help them stay cooler. The top hairs continue to offer protection from the sun while allowing the air to circulate. If you were to shave them down, the under hairs would grow faster than the outer hairs, and the coat texture will change permanently. Due to these factors, I would recommend that you try to never shave your Goldendoodle all the way down, although it may be unavoidable if the matting gets too far gone. Unfortunately, if you do not groom your Goldendoodle regularly, their coat can get very matted. When this happens, it is challenging to recover the original, sleek coat. What is matted hair? Fleas and other parasites find this condition a pleasing environment to hide and flourish in as well. Can I fix matted hair without shaving? Of course, this is possible! Depending on how bad the matting is, it could take hours and cause the dog pain from all the hair-pulling. This is when to consider changing plans and going for the shave. Of course, I recommend talking to a professional groomer not just a Petsmart employee about this ahead of time. How to Prevent my Goldendoodle Matting? After a good bath, use a coat conditioner to aid in de-tangling, then brush the coat out as you dry with a blower set on cool. Brushing should be done just about every day. Investing in a good slicker brush, or a few specialty types of brushes can help prevent and fix matting hair growth before it happens. Taking them to a professional groomer or at least learning to do some professional grooming should be done every 6 — 10 weeks, depending on hair length. Is bathing my Goldendoodle helpful for preventing matting? Unfortunately, no. Although regular bathing is good for your Goldendoodle, it actually can worsen the matting unless you follow up with hair treatment and brushing. The water causes the tangles to be more prominent and less likely to untangle. Before bathing, make sure you brush your Goldendoodle down well and look for any areas of concern! Follow the bath with a conditioner and work it into the coat well. When looking for a groomer, you want to make sure to find someone who is experienced with at least a Doodle type dog. Someone who is just trained to cut hair may not know the ins and outs of Goldendoodle styling. I recommend finding a grooming-specific store that is run by a professional. Once you find a groomer that you like, try to get to know them. Make sure they know Doodles and can offer advice. You want your groomer to be a regular that knows your dog, not just your breed, well. Once you have a regular groomer, caring for your Goldendoodle will become much easier. When shaved, your Goldendoodle may go through a few different issues. The biggest fear is that the Doodle will be subject to climate conditions. In the summer, they may be subject to getting sunburnt and not being protected. In the winter, the obvious issue will be the danger of them being too cold. Aside from just keeping them warm or safe from the sun, the Goldendoodle may actually face some anxiety issues. Goldendoodles do love and know their hair, and when it is gone they may feel incomplete. Goldendoodles are known for their long, flowy tresses that can reach up to 8 inches in length. As they transition from their puppy fuzz to their adult coat, which typically happens between ten to twelve months of age, their hair could take anywhere from two months to a whole year to grow to its full glory. But remember, if your Goldendoodle has a curly or wavy coat, it might seem considerably shorter than the specified length. The curls and waves can give an illusion of a shorter coat, even though the hair strands are just as long. Related Questions How expensive is it to groom a Goldendoodle? Any of the Doodle-style dogs are going to have a high grooming cost. Because of the genetic makeup, they have a double coat. It is also a very thick coat. The other option, which will definitely save you money, is to learn to do the basic grooming yourself. The upfront cost will be a little more for the equipment and learning, but after a couple of months, you can establish a grooming routine and will quickly begin to earn it back. How often do I need to bathe my Goldendoodle? Although there is not a hard limit, it is recommended that you bathe your Goldendoodle every 1 — 3 months. This will help keep their coat nice, without causing it to mat. It can be helpful to time this with your grooming appointment to be doubly safe about the matting. Speak to your professional groomer about the best time, before or after, to give your Doodle a bath. How fast does dog hair grow? The rate at which dog hair grows varies depending on the breed and individual factors. However, this rate may be faster in some breeds such as the Poodle or slower in others like the Chihuahua. Puppies tend to have faster hair growth compared to adult dogs. As dogs age, their hair growth rate may decrease. Regular grooming and proper nutrition can help maintain healthy hair growth in dogs. It is important to note that while dog hair may continue to grow, it also goes through a natural shedding cycle. Different breeds may shed more or less depending on their genetics and the season. Understanding the rate of hair growth will help dog owners plan their grooming routines accordingly. I am a dog parent in Hot Springs Village, Ar. I created this site to help fellow Doodle owners with up-to-date information and tips for raising your puppy right! Post navigation. One of the best parts of having a Goldendoodle is giving them fun hair cuts over and over again. The fact that they have hair instead of fur means that their hair is constantly growing , just like ours. Like other natural bodily processes, hair growth is driven from within the Goldendoodle and linked to their genetics and health. Senior dogs will have hair that will take longer because with age comes less strength, and their bodies do things slower in all areas of their lives. They may also have health issues that the body deals with, slowing down how fast their hair grows back. A Goldendoodles diet and lifestyle affect how healthy their hair is and how fast or slow it grows, just as our lifestyle and diet do for our hair. Another factor determining how fast a Goldendoodles hair grows back is how they were groomed. If their hair is very closely shaved, the growth process will take a little longer, and if they receive a longer cu t or shave, it will make the process quicker. A Goldendoodles hair will grow back at a rate of approximately half an inch to three-quarters of an inch per month, depending on the dog and their genetics. The seasons and weather affect how fast a Goldendoodles hair grows back. Their hair will grow faster during warmer weather, just like ours does, and during colder weather, it will grow slower. Again, every dog is unique, and there is no magic number for these details. Genetics plays a vital role in almost everything that makes your dog who they are as a dog. From their appearance to how they bark, play and behave, and numerous other things. We are all born with what we are born with based on our ancestors, including acute and cuddle Goldendoodle. While genetics determines hair growth, other factors can be changed to enhance the process or dimmish it. For instance, good health inside always shows on the outside in the Goldendoodles hair, eyes, teeth, and energy, to name a few. The best way to promote a healthy life is by having a healthy lifestyle. Now, this may seem silly, right? After all, they are a dog… But good health is the foundation of a long, happy, healthy life reflected in strong bones, good behavior, healthy organs, and a shiny and soft coat. Providing a Goldendoodle with a healthy diet is recommended by their veterinarian. Taking them to wellness visits and attending to their health needs and minimizing stress will make their hair as healthy as it can be throughout their lives. Good amounts of exercise, ample amounts of sleep, socializing with others, and a home environment filled with love and happiness are good places to start when promoting a healthy Goldendoodle whose hair grows back in a healthy way. Goldendoodles that receive a short shave will take slightly longer to grow their gorgeous hair back, while those that receive a trim will have it grow back to its full length faster. Brushing for us and our dog will promote healthy, strong, and beautiful hair growth as it stimulates the follicles of the hair. Bathing your Goldendoodle can promote healthy hair growth and can be done, followed by a lovely gentle massage to stimulate hair growth and healthy skin, which is where the process begins. Oils, supplements, and other products can be added to a healthy diet or grooming routine that will aid in faster hair growth for a Goldendoodle, but their veterinarian should be consulted first. When it comes to hair growth or other bodily processes, patience is the key. How long can I expect my Goldendoodles hair to grow? You can expect your Goldendoodles hair to grow to approximately 8 inches, but some dogs may fall slightly short of that and others longer than that. Again, hair growth, like with humans, is driven by their genetics. Like some of us, humans have short hair that never grows below our shoulders; some dogs will be different from others. Hair around their eyes, on their paws, and other parts of their body will grow to varying lengths that may not align with the 8 inches listed above. The area of their face which will grow differently with shorter hair will need to be trimmed to keep it neat looking in between grooming visits, which can easily be done with scissors and a steady hand. Final Thoughts How fast hair grows in uniquely individual. Many factors play a part in this process will genetics being the most obvious. A healthy diet and lifestyle are the best ways to promote healthy hair that grows fast for your Goldendoodle. According to experts, goldendoodle hair grows at a rate of about 6 inches per year. Of course, this varies depending on the individual dog, but in general, this is a good rule of thumb. When it comes to goldendoodles, the average pup will have their locks grow out about 6 inches per year. Such a rapid growth rate can make goldendoodle owners find themselves needing to groom and style the breed throughout the year. While it can be quite a lot of work, many goldendoodle owners will tell you their dogs are worth every bit of effort. As a goldendoodle puppy gets older, they will begin to experience their coat and hair changing into what will eventually become its full grown form. One of the most endearing qualities of goldendoodles is their fluffy, full coats. Luckily, goldendoodles are fairly low maintenance when it comes to grooming and even with a moderate hair growth rate, they still need daily brushing and occasional trips to the groomer. To maintain their thick coats, goldendoodles will need plenty of nutrition-rich food and regular weekly brushing sessions to keep their hair from becoming tangled and matted. What you can do to encourage faster hair growth There are a few things you can do to help encourage faster hair growth in your goldendoodle, including brushing them regularly and feeding them a healthy diet. Not only does it remove any dirt and debris from their fur, which can hinder proper growth, but also it stimulates the scalp and helps distribute natural oils throughout their coat, leading to overall healthier hair. Feeding your goldendoodle a balanced diet Additionally, feeding them a balanced diet with plenty of nutrients will give them the building blocks they need for healthy hair growth. Look for foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids and biotin — both are important components in helping maintain good hair health. A visit to your veterinarian should get you on the right path towards achieving goldendoodle hair growth goals. With a bit of help from an experienced team of animal care professionals, you can make sure that your pup is flourishing with luscious locks. There are a few things you can do to help encourage faster hair growth in your goldendoodle, including brushing them regularly and feeding them a healthy diet. Thanks for reading! Related posts:. Again, this depends on their parents. But most commonly, they have wavy hair. Those with curly hair resemble their Poodle ancestry. Those with a straight look appear more like Golden Retrievers. The latter is far easier to groom. Speaking of grooming… Length After your dogs latest trip to the groomer, how long should you wait before scheduling their next visit? Mark it on your calendar, every six weeks about does the trick. Most Goldendoodles will have regrown everything in about three to four months. Both Poodles and Golden Retrievers have longer coats. While Labradoodles could have a shorter coat, this is uncommon in Goldendoodles, if even present. All in all, a Goldendoodle is a great pet for owners with allergies. While there is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic dog, Doodle breeds shed far less than most and are quite allergy friendly. Many Goldendoodle parents may note that their puppy's coat quickly fills with fluffy clumps as a result of this. This is a definite indication that the shift has begun for your dog! Your Goldendoodle puppy's fur is thickest at three months old. It's possible that your puppy's coat has grown to its full potential and is very well-colored at this time. Your Goldendoodle could start to lose its puppy fur and develop an adult coat between the ages of 4 and 8 months. Depending on the exact kind of fur, this process may be slow and scarcely perceptible, rapid and evident, or protracted and difficult. The color and texture of their pelt can also vary. Don't get too depressed if your puppy's fur lasts past the age of 12 months; some Doodles may continue to shed puppy fur. We mentioned earlier about grooming. While most breeds you can take to the groomer at about 12 weeks, you probably want to wait until this six-month mark to shuffle them to the stylist. This will allow most of their puppy fur to be shed. When a puppy is 6 to 10 months old, the silky puppy coat often begins to shed gradually. Your Goldendoodle will continue its gradual transformation from puppy to adult coat by the age of one. Any shedding should be minimized, and if a suitable grooming routine isn't put in place at this time, you can have issues with knots. First, the adult coat becomes stiffer and more curly. Over time, you will notice that the coat is not as soft as it used to be. Most of the time, the color will usually lighten as the dog ages. They will grey just like we will. There are a handful of reasons for changes at this age or, sometimes, younger. If your dog is one that loves daytime romps, the sun could bleach its fur over time. This is natural. Diet and nutrition can affect their coats as well. A lack of vitamins could cause them to shed and matt. You might be allergic to dogs, but your dog could also be allergic to you. Or other things too. If they do have allergies this can affect the color, texture and volume of your puppy's coat. See your vet for best practices about how to assist your dog in these instances. Inherited or communicated diseases can also affect your dog's coat. Again, your trusted vet is best suited to formulate a plan of action for managing the situation. The same goes for grooming your senior pup. Older dogs need to be treated with a bit of finesse. Have that same respect for your dog. Especially those over the age of about ten years or so. If they have arthritis, for example, be aware of those areas on their body. But what happens during the time in between hair care visits? You can even take things step by step and demonstrate how easy it can be. Keep things light. Keep things fun. Shampoo and conditioner of high quality are viable options for special treatment. There are other, less expensive options as well. When they are true puppies, you want to only wash them when they start to smell. What will really help is brushing your puppy on a regular basis. Popping out the brush once a day or every other day is recommended. Brushing their hair less than once a week will almost definitely spell disaster. You can trim things up here and there as well. Where are some trouble spots that will need to be considered when grooming your pup? These might be found at the base of their tail, beneath their ears, and in the area just above their armpits. Don't forget about the back of their haunches and elbows. The best way to learn is with hands-on experience. Ready to get your Goldendoodle today? Have more questions about anything and everything Goldendoodle related? We have the answers , and for all things Doodles, stay tuned to our exciting and educational blog.

Since dogs were first introduced into society, people have been creating new breeds for many reasons. Such examples include breeding a new to become a better hunter or to create a more hypoallergenic coat. In fact, Borador came to North American in the past 10 to 20 years. These dogs make fantastic family members, hunting dogs, aids to police officers, and therapy dogs to those in need. The best way to get to know the Border Collie Lab Mix is to get to know the parents that make up this crossbreed. They originated in the United Kingdom as herders and guard dogs for sheep. Their unrelenting work ethic makes them great at their jobs. Otherwise, destruction and misbehaviors are sure to follow. Despite this, they are still very loving and family orientated. They come in a variety of colors, though the most common is black and white. Their fur is long and soft to the touch, and they can way anywhere between 30 to 50 pounds 13 to 23 kgs. Breeders initially created them to become smaller versions of Newfoundlands. They helped to retrieve fish for fisherman, and many labs came from a single dog born in .This is due to their gentleness and loving nature. Labs are also brilliant, making training a breeze. These dogs are large-sized , have short hair, and come in three different classic colors, you might already be familiar with, black, yellow, and brown. Thanks to this mixture of traits, the Border Collie Lab Mix is a beautiful and adorable dog. The Borador will fall somewhere in between its parents in size. As mentioned above the Border Collie Lab Mix size comes at around 19 inches tall 48 — 60 cm. The Lab weighs between 55 to 75 pounds 25 kg , while the Border Collie ranges between 30 to 45 pounds 14 — 20 kg. The Border Collie Lab mix weighs around 40 to 46 pounds 18 — 20 kg. Borador females tend to weigh lighter than the males. In fact, the Lab Collie mix is often described as having the same mental ability as a 2 and half-year-old child. These dogs are also kind and happy. They make fantastic family dogs thanks to their ability to get along with kids of all ages and other pets in the household. In fact, these dogs are perfect for those who already own dogs as they love to be a part of the pack. They are barkers and tend to get very excited. This means lots of jumping and licking, which can end up hurting if not trained. But they mean well! Training is a Breeze With The Borador Lab Collie mixes need lots of training and mental stimulation to remain happy pups. If not, they can become bored and even destructive. Do your furniture and yourself a favor and get to training. The good news is they are extremely easy to train thanks to their intelligence and eagerness to please owners. Since they can sometimes be stubborn too, use a gentle yet firm hand with training. Training can also help with any anxiety issues they may have from being separated from you. It also may help them calm down their chewing instincts. Make sure to give them lots of chew toys! They also make fantastic agility competitors, like Border Collies. Plan to schedule several hours of play time a day. Hikes, long runs, play time in lakes, and other outdoor activities will make these dogs extremely happy. Not only is it great for your dog, but for you too! These dogs will undoubtedly help keep you in shape. If you work a office job, the Borador may not be the best fit for you. As well, these dogs need a home complete with a large backyard to run around in. No apartments for the Border Collie Lab Mix. Instead, plan to groom your Border Collie Lab Mix once or twice a week with a bristle or pin brush. Slicker brushes are excellent at removing any mats that might build up with all that play time. As well, since they are adventurous dogs, they will need baths every weeks. Brushing their teeth and trimming their nails regularly also helps to fight against common health problems. Do Lab Collie Mixes Shed? However, there still will be some shedding, so plan for that. They are not a hypoallergenic breed. This might require training, but it will help prevent any bloating issues this breed can have. As well, be careful to measure out their food and not give them anything in addition. These dogs are known to overeat. Since the Borador is a mix breed, they could potentially run into fewer problems than if they were a purebred dog. Here are a few medical conditions they could inherit from their parents. The first is congenital deafness. This happens when the ear does not get the blood flow it needs. Border Collies also have issues with elbow dysplasia. This is a medical condition caused by the abnormal growth of cells, tissues, or the bone. It possible that the Border Collie Lab Mix could run into these issues. Take your dog to regular checkups to spot any medical problems before they rise into bigger issues. Labs have poor joint formation, which can lead to more significant problems like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, osteochondritis, knee dislocation, and general arthritis. These issues can later lead to lameness and difficulty walking. As well, Labs can run into eye problems like cataracts. They also have heart problems like a poor formation of heart valves, which can become a serious issue if not spotted early enough. Like with the Border Collie issues, Boradors could also have any of those issues. Again, regular check-ups are essential for a happy and healthy pup! The good news is that if treated well, the Borador can live up to 13 years! Mix breeds tend to live longer than their purebred parents, so get ready to enjoy more than a decade of adventure and laughs with your Labrador Collie Mix. Breeders are all across the country, but make sure to do your research before choosing. As well, rescuing is another fantastic option! Mix Breeds are common to find in most adoption agencies. You might be wondering if the Borador is an expensive mix breed, but this is not the case. The Border Collie Lab mix is a wonderful cross-breed that combines two of the most popular dogs in the world. Let us know what you think of this breed in the comments down below! 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. Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Also known as a borador, or border Lab, this energetic and clever mix combines the best traits of its parent breeds. If you are looking for an affectionate and lively companion dog that loves children and can keep up with your active lifestyle, check out the border Lab! Medium to large in size, these pups are best suited for active families and homes with access to securely fenced backyards. Take this to heart. We had a borador who was an absolute escape artist. He found his way out of our backyard and to the local park on nearly a daily basis. This exceptionally smart mix craves attention and needs a lot of mental stimulation to stay on the best behavior. When bored or left to their own devices, border Labs can become destructive and resort to chewing or digging just to have fun. If you want an outgoing, eager-to-please, loyal, and smart mixed-breed dog for your family, read on! Border Collie Lab Overview Size — 19 to 24 inches tall, weighs between 40 and 65 pounds Coat — Short to medium-long double coat, color varies Shedding — Moderate to heavy shedding Lifespan — 10 to 15 years Temperament — Eager-to-please, outgoing, clever, and energetic Trainable — Highly trainable but can become bored if not mentally stimulated Activity — Very active needs around one to two hours of activity every day Best For — Active families and people, and homes with outdoor space What Is A Labrador Border Collie Mix? As you may have guessed, the Labrador border collie mix is a cross-breed created by mixing a purebred Labrador retriever and a purebred border collie. While both parent breeds are officially recognized by the American Kennel Club, the borador is considered a designer dog breed. Border Collie And Lab Mix Appearance Like all other mixed-breed dogs, no two border Labs are the same and there is no way of knowing exactly what you will get when mixing a border collie and a Lab. Most, however, have a Lab-like build, although they are on the thin side. When it comes to the head and general features, this mix takes more after the Labrador, but they do have the slightly pointed nose of a border collie. However, nothing is set in stone, and the only thing you can do is wait and see how your border collie and Lab mix puppy will grow up to be. With that being said, there are some things you can expect from your mixed breed, mainly when it comes to size and coat color. Size As a mix between Labrador retriever and border collie dog breeds, expect your border Lab to be a medium to large size dog. Most border collie Lab mixes are between 19 and 24 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 40 and 65 pounds. There are yellow, brown, black, and fox red Labrador retrievers , but border collies come in many different colors and markings. Most border Labs have brown, black, or tan coats and white markings like their border collie parent. The amount of white fur varies greatly from one borador to the next, with some dogs having completely solid coats and others having several white markings. Coat Depending on which parent they take after, boradors can have short to medium-long coats. Having a double coat means your Lab mix is going to shed moderately all year round, and lose more hair during the shedding season. Most border Labs are outgoing and people-loving dogs that make amazing family pets. In fact, this mix is so friendly that they will likely meet everyone with a wagging tail. They generally become fast friends with children and are very gentle with them. However, thanks to their border collie ancestry, some boradors may try to herd and nip smaller children or other pets. If your mix exhibits this trait, know you can curb their nipping tendencies with training and positive reinforcement. As an offspring of the border collie — the smartest dog breed in the world — the borador tends to be pretty smart as well. Aim to take your border collie Lab mix for at least two long walks every day and also include several playing sessions throughout the day. Games such as fetch, tug-of-war, hide and seek, and flyball are some great ways to exercise your borador and keep it mentally stimulated. Our Border Lab mix, Maffy was high, high, high energy. Obviously inherited from the Border Collie side of the equation. However, a Lab is no slouch when it comes to energy level. Caring For A Borador As with any other dog, you should develop a care routine as soon as you bring a border collie Lab mix puppy home. Exercise Ideally, boradors need around one or two hours of exercise every day. Activities such as running, swimming, jogging, cycling, and hiking are just some ways you can keep your mix exercised and in good shape. Boradors also excel at agility, which is a great way to keep your dog both physically and mentally challenged at the same time. Intellectual Stimulation Since they are very smart, border Labs do best with lots of mental stimulation. If not properly challenged, your mix will become destructive and turn to digging and chewing to relieve boredom. A word of caution, a bored Lab border collie mix might be a recipe for disaster! You might return home from work only to find your shoes, pillows, or carpets chewed and shredded to pieces. Invest in durable chews, interesting puzzle toys to stimulate your dog , and spend some time every day interacting and playing with your pooch to keep them mentally stimulated. Our Border Lab got into all kinds of trouble in the yard digging holes and hiding treats throughout the yard. Another game he enjoyed playing was dropping his ball into the swimming pool. Then wait till it floats to the middle then jump in after it. Without mental stimulation Boradors definitely invent their own games. Companionship Eager-to -lease, loving, and friendly border Labs are true companions and are happy as long as they are involved in all family activities. These dogs crave attention and companionship, and they are best suited for homes where there is someone who can spend a better part of the day playing and interacting with them. When left at home alone a lot, this mix can develop separation anxiety and become destructive. Grooming When compared to other Lab mixes, the borador is a fairly low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. Although they shed moderately all year round, their coats are easy to groom and need to be brushed two times a week. Brushing your mix regularly with a slicker brush will help you remove loose hair and keep the shedding to a minimum. Diet An ideal diet for a border Lab should be formulated for medium to large size dogs with high energy. Make sure to feed your mix with age-appropriate high-quality dog food that contains all essential micro and macronutrients. Avoid free feeding your mix and set up a regular feeding schedule to prevent obesity and health problems associated with it. Although border Labs are generally healthy, they are prone to some of the same health problems that affect Labrador retrievers and border collies. This can be extremely painful for a dog, causing arthritis, difficulty walking, and lameness later in life. Collie Eye Anomaly: This is a congenital eye disease that occurs in border collies and affects the retina, sclera, and choroid. CEA is caused by a recessive gene defect and can be a mild condition or cause blindness. Hypothyroidism: This is a condition in which the thyroid gland is no longer able to produce the hormone thyroxine. Life Expectancy The border Lab has an average life expectancy of 10 to 15 years. When properly cared for and taken to regular veterinary checkups, some boradors can reach senior years completely healthy. We had a Border Collie Lab mix that we rescued from our local animal shelter. They told us he was approximately 2 years old when we rescued him. He lived with us for 18 years! Add on the approximately 2 years he lived before he came to our home he lived a whopping 20 years! True to their parent breeds, border Labs are eager to please and very intelligent, which makes them highly trainable. Like all other dogs, the Lab border collie mix responds well to positive reinforcement and reward-based training. Start training and socializing your borador puppy as soon as you bring them home when they are eight to 12 weeks old. While your pup might seem small, you can start potty training and teach them basic commands. Border Labs make truly wonderful companions and pets to active people or families with children. Couch potatoes be warned; this designer hybrid needs a lot of exercise and will keep you on your toes. Due to their energetic nature and high exercise needs, boradors need a home with access to a fenced yard where they can run around and play. Buying A Border Collie And Lab Mix Puppy If you want to purchase a border collie and Lab mix puppy, find a reputable breeder and schedule an appointment to visit their facilities. A reputable breeder will let you meet the mother and all the puppies. Check your local shelter and rescue groups to see if they have any border Labs. You can also contact Labrador retriever and border collie breed-specific rescue groups since they often take care of mixed-breed dogs too. History Of The Breeds Labrador Retriever One of the most popular dog breeds in the world, the Labrador retriever originated in Newfoundland where they helped fishermen catch fish. Universally loved for their kind, friendly, fun, and loyal nature, Labs make great family pets and companions. Highly intelligent, gentle, and eager-to-please, Labrador retrievers are favored as service dogs and are often seen assisting people with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives. Border Collie Developed in the border country between Scotland and England, the border collie is a working and herding dog breed. Originally bred to herd sheep, border collies are a highly intelligent and very trainable dog breed. Naturally athletic and energetic, border collies need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and thrive. Boradors are good companions and amazing pets to active people and families with children. They tend to be friendly, loving, eager-to-please, and smart, which makes training fairly easy even for novice owners. As long as they are properly exercised and provided with the attention they need, border Labs make wonderful pets. Are boradors aggressive? Boradors are rarely aggressive towards people or other dogs and tend to greet everyone with a wagging tail. Inherently friendly and kind, the collie Lab mix gets along well with children with whom they become fast friends. How much does a border collie Lab mix cost? Conclusion Extremely clever, eager-to-please, and friendly, the border collie Lab mix makes a great pet for active people and families with children. True to its parent breeds, this mix has a lot of energy and needs lots of exercise and mental stimulation, otherwise, they can become bored and destructive. Boradors are best suited for: Outdoorsy people and active families with children Homes with securely fenced backyards People who can interact and play with their pup every day We told you a little about our Border Collie Lab mix, Maffy, but how about you? Have you ever owned a Borador? What was your dog like? Tell us about your experiences in the comment section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Borador Highlights The Borador is a mixed breed dog. They are not purebreds like their Border Collie or Labrador Retriever parents. The main colors of Boradors are brown, black, tan, and white. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. Boradors are very easy to groom. A good brushing per week will probably do. Most Boradors are so outgoing that they will often greet any stranger with a wag of their tail. This makes them better as companions than as watchdogs. Any nipping related to herding tendencies can be easily curbed with positive reinforcement and training. Boradors are generally great with kids, other pets, and all members of the family. Playtime between dogs and kids, as always, should be supervised. Borador History The Borador dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Border Collies and Labrador Retrievers in the early s, likely in North America. Breeders likely started to cross-breed the Labrador Retriever and the Border Collie to create a smart, family-friendly dog. Both parent breeds are working and herding dogs, and when combined, they make for an intelligent, affectionate pup. Breeders continued to create Boradors as demand for the mixed breed dogs climbed. Even though the Borador mixed breed got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up Borador rescues, or check with breed-specific Labrador Retriever or Border Collie rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Borador Size As the Borador is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between Border Collie and Labrador Retriever parents, you can expect Boradors to be on the medium to large side. Most weigh in at 40 to 64 pounds and range in height from 19 to 24 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. Borador Personality Many Borador enthusiasts stress that the mixed breed is truly a family dog. The good-sized pooch is eager to please, and they are just as happy to participate in agility contests as they are to snuggle on the couch—as long as its with their family. In fact, they are so outgoing that they will often greet any stranger with a wag of their tail. Since they are smart and highly energetic dogs, Boradors do best with lots of activity and stimulation. If not properly exercised, the Borador could fall into some bored destructive behaviors. Prevent unwanted chewing and digging by providing plenty of physical and mental stimulation for your Borador. Borador Health The Borador breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Border Collie and Labrador also face. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Some of the more common health problems Borador suffer from include : Collie Eye Anomaly. The borador, a Labrador retriever and border collie mix, displays some of the most sought-after traits of its parent breeds. Like their parent breeds, boradors are extremely active and will do best in families that provide a lot of exercise and social interaction. Appearance Because the borador is a mixed breed that inherits traits from both parent breeds, what a pup can look like can vary wildly. If a borador takes after his Lab side, he can have a short coat in black, brown, or yellow. Or, if they lean more toward their border collie parent, they can have a medium-length coat that's solid black or black and white. Depending on the traits inherited from their border collie and labrador retriever parents, boradors can stand 18—25 inches tall and weigh anywhere between 30—70 pounds. Most border collie and Lab mixes, Derse says, tend to be on the smaller end of the range. But, she adds, "It depends on whether an [shorter, stockier] English lab or an American lab [which is taller and has a more athletic build], was the parent. Just like with their looks, boradors will inherit these traits from their parent breeds. In other words, these are dogs that need jobs, Derse says. Boradors are energetic and intelligent ; without outlets to channel their physical and mental energy, Derse says boradors can be prone to "naughty behaviors" like chewing the sofa. They are especially affectionate with their families and appreciate opportunities to tag along on all kinds of activities. Overall, Derse calls the mixed breed "well tempered" with one caveat: Boradors must have healthy outlets to channel their abundant energy. They'll enjoy fast-paced, heart-pumping activities that require problem solving—with training, your borador might just be the next agility champion. Living Needs When it comes to their dream living situation, boradors have one wish: space. Your borador might romp around the backyard solo for a short period, but sniffing around the fence line solo won't be enough to fulfill his need for exercise. You'll need to provide plenty of opportunities for him to burn off his boundless energy, from long—very, very long—walks and trips to the dog park to epic games of fetch. The adage, "A tired dog is a good dog," definitely applies to the borador. Whether you're hiking , running , or swimming , a borador will want to be right by your side. They are also naturals at dog sports like agility, rally, obedience, and dock diving. Basically, the more exercise, the better. Although boradors are easygoing dogs that will happily nap on the sofa after a good workout, they are probably not the right dogs for apartment life. In fact, Derse says, "If you live in an apartment and you're thinking about [a borador], you might want to rethink it. But with early and consistent training and adult supervision during puppy and kiddo playtime , a borador can quickly learn that kids are not something to herd. Training is a great way to give them a mental challenge—but it's not just about teaching basic cues like " sit ," " stay ," and "leave it. Labs tend to have short, straight, and dense coats, while border collies have longer, coarse, often wavy coats; boradors can have some combination of these coat types. Both parent breeds are heavy shedders , which means boradors will need regular grooming, regardless of which coat type they inherit. Expect to brush your borador daily to remove dead hair and keep it off your couch. Thanks to their love of outdoor adventures, boradors will also need regular baths. Frequent nail trims , routine dental care , and monthly preventives to protect against fleas, ticks, and heartworm disease are also an essential part of caring for your borador. Health The typical borador lifespan is 10—15 years and they are typically healthy pups. However, these border collie and Labrador retriever mixes can develop a few health issues their parent breeds are prone to. This includes: Hip dysplasia: Both border collies and Labrador retrievers are prone to hip dysplasia. The condition, which causes grinding and pain, is diagnosed when the hip joint and socket don't fit together. There is no cure, but physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications can help ease the pain. Sometimes surgery is needed. Ear infections: Excessive head shaking, pawing or scratching the affected ear, odor, discharge, redness, swelling or scabs in the ear canal are common signs of ear infections. Thanks to their floppy ears and love of swimming, boradors may be diagnosed with ear infections more often than breeds with small, pricked ears. If your borador has chronic ear infections, your vet may also look for underlying causes such as allergies , thyroid disease , or other endocrine disorders and autoimmune disorders. Epilepsy: Epilepsy is an inherited disorder that causes recurrent seizures. It's the most common neurological condition diagnosed in dogs. While the condition isn't painful, it can cause dogs to feel anxious and confused. Medication can help control seizures. Keeping up with regular veterinarian appointments will keep your pup healthy, and make sure to consult your vet if you notice signs of any of the above conditions. History Both border collies and Labs have centuries-long histories. Border collies are known as indispensable working dogs, herding sheep and other livestock in the Scottish Highlands and in Wales for generations. Labs were also bred to work , though on the other side of the pond; they were used to retrieve ducks and keep fishermen company in Newfoundland, Canada. Given that the border collie and Labrador retriever consistently rank among the U. In fact, there were likely a lot of Lab and border collie crosses before anyone dubbed the mixed breed a "borador. But one thing is certain: These outgoing, active, athletic dogs are the ideal companions for active owners who want enthusiastic four-legged companions for outdoor adventures. Was this page helpful? Breeders vs rescue dogs A Combined History Mixing dog breeds is not a new thing. In fact, cross-breeding has been around for centuries. But, it takes many years to create a distinct breed that is recognized and registered. Designer dogs are typically named based on the breeds used for mating. Border Collies and Labradors are both intelligent working dogs. They have been selectively bred for generations to choose dogs that are driven as well as cooperative, but in slightly different ways. Border Collies are a traditional herding breed mostly used by sheep farmers to control their unruly flocks. Labradors on the other hand spend more time waiting than working, then have bursts of energy fetching fallen birds over long distances and tricky terrain. Like many of the other designer breeds, the Borador has come into existence within the last 10 to 20 years in North America. By mixing the lovable Labrador with the hard-working Border Collie, breeders hoped to get the best of both worlds — an intelligent, energetic, and people-oriented dog that suits almost any role. Most Labradors are quite a bit bigger than Border Collies. But, your mix could fall anywhere between the sizes of its parents. Most Borador dogs will be somewhere between 40 and 60 pounds. Females are usually smaller than males. While Labradors are seen with a solid yellow, brown, or black coat, this mix often takes on the distinct dual or tri-coloring of the Border Collie. You could also end up with a beautiful black Lab Border Collie mix. Black is a dominant coat color, so the black Lab Border Collie mix is one of the most common colors. This can be in a plain form, or bi-color pattern, such as a white and black Lab Border Collie mix. Grooming and Shedding The Border Collie parent can have long or short fur. Labs will have short dense fur. Your Borador mix could be anywhere inbetween. Both parent dogs are known to shed all year round, and heavily during hotter seasons. So, expect to find lots of fur around your home if you own one. Use a bristle or pin brush for grooming once or twice a week and use a slicker brush to remove any mats that you see. Especially if your dog spends a lot of time exercising outdoors. You may need to groom more frequently when shedding is at its heaviest. Border Collie Lab Mix Temperament These dogs can inherit some very unique and positive personality traits from their parent breeds. For starters, Collies are extremely intelligent. According to studies completed by the American Psychological Association, the dogs have the same mental abilities as a two to two-and-a-half-year-old child. While Labradors may act more like toddlers, and have a good deal of smarts themselves, what really stands out about them is their kindness, happiness, and generally easy-going attitudes. Socialization Early socialization is hugely important if you want to raise a healthy, happy, outgoing dog. This process involves exposing your puppy to other dogs and to different people when they are young. It is done so that your dog will not be fearful or aggressive around new people or dogs. Ideally, socialization should begin when your puppy is between 3 and 14 weeks of age. Luckily, both the Border Collie and Labrador are known for their easy, kind temperament, so you should find this process easy and effective. Training Both Labradors and Border Collies are dogs with high levels of intelligence. So, a Borador is likely to become bored and disruptive if not properly entertained. Training can go a long way to help with this. There are various programs that can help you with training. Keep in mind that studies show that positive reinforcement or reward based training are best for your dog. Not only is it highly effective, but it reduces the incidence of problem behaviors and anxiety issues. Borador Energy Levels It should not come as a surprise that the Border Collie Lab mix also needs a fair amount of exercise. They are extremely active dogs that love to run, play, and exert energy for hours each day. The Lab part of the mix typically calms down the hyperactive nature of the Border Collie. But, it depends entirely on the traits they inherit. Some Borador mixes will still have strong herding instincts and could even try to herd young kids or other pets in the house! Border Collie and Labrador Health All dogs are at risk of certain illnesses. The Borador is no exception. Here are some health problems that potential owners should be aware of: Hip dysplasia. Breeds By Meg Marrs 6 min read September 24, Comments K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. When you combine two already-awesome things, you usually wind up with something even better. And this is especially true when you are talking about mixed-breed dogs. For example, Labradoodles, chorkies and Gerberian Shepskies are a few of the most well-known and popular designer dogs, but few mixtures are as reliably awesome as the borador — a cross between a border collie and a Labrador retriever. Labrador Retrievers Labrador retrievers are one of the most popular breeds in the world the most popular breed, according to the AKC. They are famous for being loving, fun, energetic and intelligent pups, and most people who can provide proper training and sufficient exercise fall in love with their labs. Although originally developed to help fishermen collect their nets and retrieve escaping fish, they also excel in hunting, therapy and bomb-sniffing contexts. Of course, labs also make fantastic family pets; they are gentle with children, friendly with strangers and simply love to hang out with their people. Labs are medium-sized dogs, who typically weigh somewhere in the to pound range. They have very thick, short- to medium-length hair and come in three different color forms: Black, golden and chocolate. Border Collies Border collies were originally used as herding dogs, but they also make great family pets. Border collies have one of the most well-developed work ethics of any breed, and they are very smart many authorities consider them the most intelligent breed. This means that you must keep them busy and stimulated, or else they may become destructive. Border collies are very good at a number of different jobs, and people frequently use them in agility, disc, obedience and tracking competitions. Most are very friendly and loving with their families, although they occasionally exhibit a bit of dog aggression. Border collies are covered in fairly long, soft hair, and they are generally black with white masks, chests and feet. However, some border collies also display patches of brown. Most weigh between about 30 and 50 pounds. Borador Traits and Characteristics While boradors can vary from individual to individual, most are relatively similar in terms of appearance, personality and skills. Image from Pinterest Size and Shape Boradors are medium-sized dogs, who are generally about 15 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 35 and 65 pounds. However, all dogs are individuals, and some will fall outside of this range. Boradors usually have a lab-like build, although they are often on the thin side. Color Patterns Most boradors have black and white markings, like their border collie parent. However, the amount of white fur varies greatly, with some individuals being nearly black and others possessing several large, white patches. The most common places to see white on these dogs is the face and chest. Temperament Boradors are typically lovely dogs, who are sweet and affectionate with their families. While they will gladly bark at strange noises or people, they make friends quickly and generally get along with people and dogs alike. Neediness Boradors usually prefer to be with their pack as much as possible. This can lead to separation anxiety and other problems, if they are left alone for long periods of time. Image from Pinterest Intelligence As you may expect, when you cross two of the smartest dog breeds in the world , their offspring tend to be pretty sharp puppies. Make sure to have some dog puzzle toys on hand to keep those canine brains sharp! Energy Level Given the fact that both of their parent breeds are bursting with energy, it should come as no surprise that boradors are some of the most energetic dogs on the planet. Owners who are not willing to go on multiple walks and toss the ball for a while on a daily basis should look elsewhere for a pet. Boradors who do not get enough exercise and playtime often become very destructive and depressed. Training Potential Most boradors love to work with and please their person, so they are generally easy to train. However, their impressive intelligence can occasionally make training difficult, as they can be headstrong from time to time. Nevertheless, most boradors respond well to firm, consistent training based on positive reinforcement, so grab your clicker and a handful of treats and teach your borador a new trick! Health Profile Boradors are generally healthy dogs, who are not especially susceptible to many illnesses or ailments. Bloat can also be a concern, given their relatively deep chests, so encourage your dog to eat slowly consider investing in a slow eating bowl or — even better — start a hand feeding routine and insist on a period of calmness after meals. Maintenance Needs Boradors tend to have the short hair of their lab parent, which means they need relatively little grooming or maintenance. Lifespan The average lifespan of boradors can vary widely, but most probably live between 10 and 12 years. Best People and Families for Boradors The best families for boradors are active and love to get out and about with their pooch. They may not be the best choice for families that already have other pets particularly cats , although some seem to get along with other pets more than others. What kinds of things surprised you about your borador? Did she present any special challenges? Let us know in the comments below! Like it? Share it! We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. If you are looking for a friendly and energetic dog to adopt into the family, then the Borador, which is a mix between a Labrador retriever and a border collie, might be a perfect choice! Attractive, intelligent, and friendly to a fault, these dogs have the perfect temperament for playing at home with the kids or accompanying their parents on epic adventures. However, they do need lots of love and attention to thrive. While there exists a diverse range of different types of Boradors, the most popular mix is between a black Labrador and a border collie. This typically results in a distinctive and sleek black pup, often with white accents. Always consider heading to your local shelter before purchasing a pup. Read on to learn everything you need to know about Boradors and decide whether they are the perfect pup to join your home. The breed was established in the s and has been one of the most popular dog breeds in the Western world ever since. Their friendly nature, intelligence, and eagerness to please make them ideal working dogs, and you will often see Labs in service dog roles such as disability assistance. Their composure makes them the ideal dog to accompany their owners into public spaces, though they are known as big shedders. The border collie is a herding dog that was developed along the Anglo-Scottish border. It was officially recognized as a breed in .Border collies are both intelligent and athletic, which has made them favorites as sports dogs, particularly in sheepdog trials. It is believed that initial combinations of Labs and border collies were probably accidental, but breeders soon realized the combination made for a very desirable mix. While all kinds of Borador mixes exist, the most popular mix is between black Labradors and border collies, creating distinctive-looking black dogs with white accents. The term is not generally used for accidents, but rather specifically for these designer dogs that are emerging. However, it is important to differentiate between crossbreeds and pure breeds. Pure breeds tend to pass down physical and character traits in a very predictable way, making it possible to define the breed. When it comes to crossbred dogs, though, there is less consistency in the way characteristics manifest. It is possible to generalize to an extent about what to expect from a crossbred dog, and breeders do control for characteristics as much as possible. Luckily, when it comes to Boradors, you are working with two incredibly intelligent and friendly breeds, so the result always tends to be something special. Borador Appearance Labrador and border collie mixes are medium-to-large-sized dogs that tend to fall somewhere between the size of their two parents. Breeders typically make sure the mother is larger so they have no trouble passing the baby pups. Labradors tend to be between .They usually weigh between 55 and 80 pounds. Border collies are a bit smaller, reaching between 18 and 22 inches in height and weighing between 30 and 55 pounds. They tend to have a longer muzzle and a leaner physique, though this is not always easy to see through their medium-length hair. As a result, you can expect a Borador to be between 19 and 24 inches tall and weigh between 40 and 65 pounds. Remember, you can get a better idea of the potential height and weight of a puppy by looking at their parents. Most Borador pups tend to have the slightly heavier build of the Labrador, though they are usually a little on the thin side. They also tend to have the broad face of their Lab parent, though with a longer, more pointed nose. You can usually expect your Borador puppy to be a mix of whatever color their parents were. Most puppies take on the more solid black color of their Lab parent coupled with the white markings of their border collie parent. So, if you are mixing a black Lab with a border collie, you can expect a mostly black dog with white accents. Boradors typically have a double coat that will either look like the short hair of a Labrador retriever or the medium-length hair of a border collie. Regardless of their coat color, your Borador will shed quite a lot, as both Labradors and border collies are known for their high-shedding coats. Borador Personality Labradors and border collies have a lot of personality traits in common, so the characters and temperaments of Boradors are relatively easy to predict. First and foremost, both breeds are considered to be highly intelligent. They can both learn new things quickly, and they are also able to think independently. This allows them to adapt to new situations and determine what is expected of them, even if they have not been provided with specific instructions. But unlike very independent dogs that can be difficult to train due to their stubbornness, both Labradors and border collies were bred to work alongside humans. This has made them very eager to please, which makes training through reward and positive reinforcement highly effective. This is also why Labradors can be trained to complete the complex tasks required of a guide dog for the blind and why border collies can be trained to deliver elaborate tricks in a sporting dog competition. You can expect a Borador to be highly trainable as well. Both dogs tend to be friendly with strangers and other animals rather than territorial. They are more likely to be curious and keen to make friends than raise the alarm. This quality makes Boradors great companions but not very effective guard dogs. Their affectionate nature tends to be particularly notable with children, around whom they are instinctively careful. It is generally considered safe to let Labradors and border collies play with small children, though they should be supervised at all times in case of any mishaps. This can involve giving them a nip that is designed to surprise rather than hurt. Fortunately, they can easily be trained out of this behavior if you notice it and implement corrective training early on. While they can safely be left alone for up to four or five hours at a time, they can develop anxiety if they are left alone for long periods of time while everyone in the household is off working. You can expect them to respond with destructive behaviors, such as digging and chewing. This is not done out of vengeance but rather boredom or frustration. Finally, these dogs are very energetic, and they need lots of exercise. Ideally, they should get at least an hour of activity each day, spread out over two shorter sessions. They will also love to accompany you on weekend field trips and hiking adventures. Due to their size and energy levels, Boradors do best when they have a big home with a nice backyard to play in. While they can be trained to put up with apartment living as long as they have regular opportunities to stretch their legs, it is not the ideal environment for them to thrive in. Borador Health Risks You can expect a Borador to have a lifespan of around 10 to 15 years, which is respectable for a dog of their size. While they are generally healthy dogs, they are at risk of some health conditions. In particular, they may develop elbow or hip dysplasia, which is a painful malformation of the joints that can make movement difficult, especially as they get older. Boradors are less likely to develop this condition if they get sufficient exercise and have a healthy diet. An orthopedic bed will also give them a lot of comfort in late life. Boradors are susceptible to a variety of different eye conditions that can cause them to partially lose their sight in later years. This can be highly disorienting for them, but they can still feel comfortable in a familiar home where they know where everything is. Finally, Boradors can also be prone to obesity, as they have little control over their hunger hormones. This is why it is imperative that they get enough exercise and that you monitor their calorie intake, reducing or increasing portions as required. Never leave food out for these dogs; they do best with strict and limited meal times. With all that information in mind, you might still be wondering whether a Borador is the right dog for you. Here are a few questions to consider when making your decision. A Borador can actually be a great dog for first-time owners. They are easy to train and they have a friendly temperament, so you are unlikely to find yourself dealing with an aggressive or troublesome dog. A Borador will want to be part of the family and involved in everything. You also need to invest time in exercising them and teaching them, as they need the mental stimulation of training. Do you have time to look after a dog like this? If so, the Borador is likely a good choice. How Big Is Your Home? Boradors are pretty big dogs with lots of energy, so they do best when they have quite a bit of space. Will your home feel full with a inch-tall dog wandering about? Additionally, do you have an outdoor space where they can let off energy when needed? When you bring a Borador puppy home, you can expect them to live for anywhere from 10 to 15 or more years. Can you handle the responsibility of caring for them for that time, including the financial responsibility of caring for them? Do you have people who can look after them when you go away or in case of an emergency? Dog ownership is a big responsibility, regardless of the breed you adopt. Yes, Boradors are considered very good dogs, especially if you are looking for a loyal and fairly easy to manage family dog. They are highly intelligent, very trainable, and bond with families quickly. Boradors are high-energy and need a lot of attention, so they are best for families that have time to enjoy them. How smart are border collie Lab mixes? Both border collies and Labrador retrievers are considered among the smartest dog breeds, alongside the likes of poodles and German shepherds. As a result, you can expect crossbreeds that bring together their genetics to be highly intelligent. How much does a border collie Lab mix cost? Can Boradors swim? Labrador retrievers are known for their love of playing and swimming in water, so there is a good chance their Borador offspring will also love a good swim. If they have the longer coat of their border collie parent, just beware of the amount of water that they are likely to drip after a swim! When is a Borador fully grown? Boradors actually remain playful puppies for quite some time and can take quite a long time to reach their full size. You can expect females to reach their full adult size when they hit around 24 months, while males take a bit longer and are not fully grown until around 36 months. While the dogs will also lose most of their puppy energy upon reaching adulthood, they will remain energetic and athletic dogs for most of their lives. The Verdict If you are a first-time dog owner or anyone looking for a friendly, intelligent, and easy to manage dog to adopt into your family, a Borador is a great choice. Since their Labrador and border collie parents are both intelligent, trainable, and friendly dogs, their offspring are sure to inherit these wonderful traits. Overall, the Borador crossbreed is: High-energy and needs plenty of space to feel comfortable Agreeable, friendly, and loyal, though they are prone to developing separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time Quite large dogs, like their Labrador and border collie parents While Boradors are generally easy to manage, they also need quite a bit of your time and dedication to stay happy. Take time to consider whether you have the time to look after one of these pups properly before taking them home. Do you have any experience with Boradors? Share your insights with the community in the comments section below. Related Article:.

No Why is the Pug so expensive? Pugs are often considered expensive due to a combination of factors, including their popularity, demand, and the costs associated with breeding and raising them. Here are some reasons why pugs may have a higher price tag: Breeding challenges: Pugs have a unique physical structure with a short snout, which can lead to health issues. Breeding pugs requires careful selection to minimize these problems, which can increase the cost of obtaining healthy and well-bred puppies. Health concerns: Pugs are prone to several health conditions, such as respiratory problems, eye issues, and skin allergies. Responsible breeders undertake health testing and provide necessary veterinary care, which contributes to the overall cost. Limited availability: While Pugs are a popular breed, finding a reputable breeder can be challenging. Responsible breeders may have a limited number of litters each year, which increases demand and drives up prices. Popularity: Pugs have gained significant popularity over the years due to their charming appearance and friendly temperament. Increased demand for Pugs can drive prices up, as breeders can charge more when there is high demand for a particular breed. Breeding expenses: Responsible breeders invest a considerable amount of time, effort, and money into breeding and raising their puppies. This includes expenses such as health checks, vaccinations, proper nutrition, and socialization. These costs are passed on to potential buyers. So just be ready for more than the price of a puppy — unexpected vet bills, food , treats, toys, etc. This is pretty much the same price as a Pug from any reputable breeder, as you would expect to get a purebred Pug from a reputable breeder. What is the cheapest price of a Pug puppy? Adopting is also a great way to provide a home to a pet in need while also saving yourself some money in the process. What is the price of a Male Pug Puppy? However, prices are high for those with superior lineages and pure breeds. How Much Is a Pug in the Philippines? In the Philippines, different Pug breeders from different parts of the country have varying prices. However, the average price is slightly consistent compared to in the US. Below are some of the Pug prices and descriptions. A purebred 1. A purely black female Pug without papers aged between 6- and months costs PHP8, Plus, you can also negotiate the price with some breeders. In California, the cost of Pugs constantly fluctuates due to market demands. The cost of a typical puppy Pug in India lies between 5,Rs and 20,Rs. However, the average price ranges from 10,Rs and 12,Rs. Keep in mind that these prices also fluctuate from time to time. Posted on. Pug puppies can be quite expensive, and there are several reasons for it. Some of the biggest among them are discussed below. Pugs are a brachycephalic breed and have short, flat faces. This physical characteristic can make breeding them more difficult and costly. Furthermore, breeding pugs require a lot of knowledge, experience, and resources. Therefore, you may have to spend much more to get these pups than other breeds. Rarity Being an exotic breed, Pugs are not as common as other breeds. This is because they are prone to many health issues and breeders have to spend a lot of money to keep them healthy. Likewise, Pugs need a safe environment and providing that comes at a cost. This allows the breeders to charge more for them and dog enthusiasts are willing to pay. Reputable Breeder Reputable breeders are more likely to take care of the health and well-being of the puppies. Reputed breeders also provide a lot of extras, like microchips, vaccinations, and health guarantees. Are Pugs in Constant Pain? Click here to find out. What Papers are Needed for Getting Pugs? When getting a pug, several papers are typically needed. The most important ones are discussed below. Registration Papers They prove that the pug is purebred and has a known pedigree. They will also include the unique registration number of the dog. Can Pugs Eat Strawberries? Click here to learn more. Health Certificate This is another important paper that is issued by a veterinarian. It states that the pug has been examined and is in good health. Bill This document carries all the information about the terms of the sale between the breeder and the new owner. It includes the purchase price, the date of sale, and any guarantees or warranties that are included. Can Pugs Eat Watermelon? Importance of Paperwork While Getting Pugs Paperwork is an important aspect to consider when getting a pug. Registration papers are essential when showing a pug in competitions or breeding them. They are also useful to maintain the integrity of the breed. Similarly, a health certificate is also important to ensure that the pug is in good health. It will allow the owner to plan for any future vaccinations or treatments that may be necessary. The bill of sale is also an important document because it shows the terms of the sale. It has all the necessary information about the deal, including price, date of sale, and any warranties. Can a Pug Be a Service Dog? However, the cost can vary in some cases because it depends on several factors. For example, your location, the reputation of the breeder, and the overall health of the pug. In most cases, purebred pugs with papers cost much more than pups without proper documentation. It is important to thoroughly research breeders and their reputations before making a purchase. This is because buying from a reputable breeder can ensure the health and well-being of the pug. How Much is the Cheapest Pug? The cost of a pug can vary greatly depending on the location, breeder, and supply and demand. However, prices can be lower or higher depending on the circumstances. Some of the cheapest pugs may come from backyard breeders or pet stores. These breeders have lower standards of breeding and care. Hence, your chances of adopting an unhealthy pug increase. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Few people can resist the goofy smile of a Pug. However, the market price of a Pug will vary greatly based on a few important factors, such as the blood line, breeder reputation, location, and coat color. However, compared to other dog breeds, Pugs are not very cheap. Though you can certainly find one for much less, the average cost of a healthy Pug from a good breeder is not something to scoff at. There are plenty of factors that can determine how much a Pug will cost you. For instance, location, breeder reputation, pedigree and colors can all play a factor in Pug price. Location Unfortunately, the price of a Pug can vary depending on where you are. In some countries such as the UK , these dogs will likely cost a lot more. And even in the same country, the price will vary by location state, city, region, etc. If you must pick up a Pug in a certain region, then there is very little you can do. Driving for more than 10 hours one way may require an overnight stay. Pedigree and Lineage The pedigree or bloodline of a Pug will matter in regards to price. In fact, this may be the most important factor for price variation seen in all dog breeds, including Pugs. According to Business Insider , the prices of pedigree dogs such as Pugs are climbing to an all-time high. So what exactly is a pedigree dog? These dogs have at least 3 generations without any crossbreeding. Anything less is technically not a pedigree dog. However, there has been concern and controversy over the overbreeding of pedigree dogs. These dogs are bred over and over again using dogs from the same family. Inbreeding can lead to a lower life expectancy in Pugs, as well as potential degenerative diseases and mutations. Rather, the opposite is likely to happen. Pugs with a superior lineage will cost much more than a Pug without. And when I say superior lineage, I really mean champion lineage. Champion dogs are those that win an event at an AKC event. Sometimes, these dogs can command a hefty premium if they have an impressive long list of ancestors. Another great reason to go with AKC registered Pugs is that you can confirm the lineage of the pup. Reputable Pug Breeder There are two types of breeders you can purchase a Pug from: reputable and non-reputable breeders. I always highly recommend finding a reputable breeder. However, just like in every industry, reputation comes with a premium price. By reputable breeders, I really mean responsible breeders. The American Kennel Club inspects thousands of kennels each year and provide certification to those that breed responsibly. But because these breeders are recognized and recommended by the AKC, their puppies do come with a premium. These colors are fawn and black. Selling different colored dogs for different prices is frowned upon. However, even reputable breeders do this. Unfortunately, this is a classic example of supply and demand. In addition, expect the apricot, silver and apricot fawn colors also see a markup in prices. Less common dogs cost more. Personally, I think the classic fawn Pug with a black mask is the most attractive. No matter what color, all Pugs will be loving dogs and companions. To sum things up, the key is to shop around. There are so many great adoption websites with plenty of Pugs that need a new home. The first site I highly recommend is Adopt-a-Pet. With just a quick check, I already see plenty of Pugs on that marketplace! Another fantastic website is PetFinder. Have a check for yourself! Visit Your Local Animal Shelters Adopting a Pug from an animal shelter is always the best, that is, if you can find one. Do a simple Google search for shelters near you and check Yelp too! When doing your research, check to see if they have a website. It might be a good idea to check that before driving all the way there. It really depends on the shelter, but adoption fees can vary a lot. Are Pugs Worth the Price? But are they really worth the cost? Pugs are some of the most entertaining dogs you can find. My pug is definitely a handful but being able to come back from work to see her silly face every day is well worth the time and money spent. Pug Owner So, yes — Pugs are definitely worth the price! Some claim that these super pedigree Pugs are more intelligent. The truth is, all Pugs are intelligent in their own way. They may not be the most obedient dog breeds, but they show high instinctive and adaptive intelligence. How much did your Pug cost? Let us know in the comments section below! Posts you may like:. Compared to most small dogs, Pugs cost less in comparison. Pugs, in particular, are quite susceptible to respiratory issues, skin infections, and bone problems that can affect their lifespan. In other words, while they seem relatively cheap at first, these costs will add up over time. Check out this video for more information on Pug pricing: Things you should know about pugs! Female Pug: Which Is Better? The initial cost of a puppy alone will set you back at least a few hundred dollars. But why are they so expensive? There is no one factor that directly determines how much a Pug puppy will cost. There are multiple factors often working hand in hand. Getting some background knowledge in these things will give you a better grasp on what makes Pug puppies so expensive and where your money is going. This will also help you figure out the right Pug that fits within your budget. Here are some of the major factors affecting Pug prices: Age: As a rule of thumb, puppies typically cost more than adult dogs. This is no different when it comes to Pugs. Pug puppies are typically more expensive as the process of breeding can cost the breeders a lot of money. From health screenings to vitamins and sometimes even c-sections, it takes a lot of money to keep the mama dog happy. Appearance: Although there are only two registered Pug colors in the American Kennel Club, Pugs can often be seen in a wide assortment of shades. Rarer brindle coats tend to fetch a higher price than solid colored pups, and fawn or apricot Pugs with a black mask are also experiencing a rise in cost. A Pug from a reputable breeder, although expensive, will have perfect health, a good temperament, and no pre-existing medical conditions such as PDE or Pug dog encephalitis. A lot of reputable breeders also breed dogs from champion bloodlines, which ensures that the Pugs will inherit the best traits from their parents. A Pug with a superior lineage will cost significantly more than a regular Pug. Health Screenings: A vast majority of Pug breeders usually screen their puppies for pre-existing health issues before selling them. Healthy puppies with no signs of underlying medical issues will usually have a heftier price tag than others and will save you vet expenses in the long run. Training Received: Although Pugs are good family dogs, they can be quite stubborn and challenging to train. So if a Pug breeder trains their puppies before selling them, expect the price to be relatively higher than usual. Bringing home trained puppies is always worth it, though, as it saves you time and effort. These are just some of the most significant things that affect the price of a Pug dog. Of course, this list is by no means complete. Rescues generally have a lower price tag for their Pugs. What makes the deal even more ideal is that most shelter dogs have already been fully vaccinated. Additionally, many of them have already been dewormed, spayed or neutered, or even microchipped in some cases. Here are some of the initial expenses for your Pug puppy: Food and Treats: Deciding between wet or dry food is crucial in the first few days that your Pug dog comes home. If your Pug is a picky eater, you may need to try out different brands and flavors to see which one your pup likes best. This also applies to doggy treats. Ultimately though, stainless steel bowls will withstand more wear and tear. Crate: For first-time dog owners, a crate is one of the most important things to invest in. Crate training your pup is important, as it introduces them to a safe space when they feel overstimulated or unsafe. It also helps transport your Pug dog to places like the vet or during car rides. Leashes and Collars: As soon as you bring your new dog home, it is important that you get them acquainted with a leash and collar. Some dogs take a while to get adjusted to wearing harnesses, so starting pups with a collar while getting them used to daily walks is optimal. Toys: Pugs often have a reputation for being lazy, sleepy dogs, but this is not the case at all. A well-stimulated, happy Pug will be playful and alert rather than spend most of its time sleeping. Enrichment objects such as chew toys and puzzle toys are sure to keep your puppy busy and your slippers and charging cables safe from bites. Grooming Essentials: Although they have short fur, Pugs are double-coated. This means that they shed more than other short-haired dogs. Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications: A lot of Pug breeders typically cover deworming, flea, and tick prevention before selling their puppy. Initial Vaccine Shots: Before a Pug puppy turns one year old, they need to complete their first set of vaccine shots. The usual shots most dogs need are for distemper, parainfluenza, rabies, parvovirus DHPP , and hepatitis. Neutering or Spaying: If you have no plans of breeding your Pug, it may be good to consider neutering or spaying them. If done at the right age, getting your dog fixed will help prevent the risk of some cancers and uterine infections. Dog License: While it may seem unnecessary at first, licensing your dog is a great way to have a permanent formal record of your ownership. This is especially helpful if your dog gets lost. Licensing also lets people know if your dog is up to date on its rabies vaccinations. A microchip will come in handy if ever you lose your pooch. It does not, however, work as a GPS tracker. If your lost puppy gets taken to a shelter or a clinic, they can easily scan the chip and contact you immediately. These include vitamins , pet-safe wipes, poop bags, and a poop scooper. A few toys should do the trick, but make sure to provide them with at least a few puzzle toys to get their brains working. Pugs thrive on attention and most are happy with an hour or so of playtime in the yard, two walks per day, and an occasional trip to the park to socialize with other dogs. Training your Pug beyond basic obedience training is a great way to bond with them and provide mental stimulation. Pugs are eager to please and attentive to their owners, so teaching them tricks or training them in agility are excellent ways to occupy their minds and enhance your relationship. Pugs only eat about pounds of food per year and are mostly healthy, although setting aside extra cash to deal with emergencies is a good idea. Food, medication, and pet insurance—if you purchase it—will be the highest regular costs, but occasional vet visits and extra medication for potential eye problems could become significant outlays as well. Additional Costs to Factor In Most Pug owners have success training their dogs themselves, but some people still opt for professional training. Dog sitting is another additional cost that only applies to some people. Before you purchase your new buddy, make sure you can budget enough money per month to cover food and medication costs. It is also a good idea to have money set aside to cover unexpected medical expenses. Training games, obedience training, and makeshift agility courses are excellent inexpensive ways to keep your Pug happy and make for some great owner-dog bonding time. Your upfront costs could be significantly reduced if you adopt a dog from a local shelter. The main drivers are food, medications like heartworm and flea and tick prevention, and pet insurance. You might also like:. The following information regards prices in the United States. So, how much are pugs? The cost of a pug depends on: There are three factors that go into the pug price: Location — prices can vary from state to state. How much do pugs cost if… I rescue my pug from a reputable rescue? I buy a pug from a reputable breeder? I want a specific color pug? How much do pugs cost if I rescue my pug from a reputable rescue? How much do pugs cost if I buy a pug from a reputable breeder? If your pug comes from a champion line and is show quality, they can cost even more. Can you pay less for a pug from a reputable breeder? Actually, yes. These retired pugs are usually spayed or neutered and cared for as beloved pets. In many cases, they are still only a few years old and get placed for free or for a small fee. Some breeders may list these dogs on their website, while others may just keep them as pets until the right home comes along. If you have a breeder in mind, but sure to ask them. Why are pugs so expensive? Pugs are expensive because they have small litters, often need a C-section to give birth, and because they are a popular breed in high demand. The average size of a pug litter is 4 to 6 puppies. Pugs are prone to health issues, and can have complications during and after pregnancy. Expensive vet bills, and excellent care, are not cheap, meaning that puppies will cost more. How much do pugs cost if I want a specific pug color? According to the American Kennel Club, pugs come in three colors: Silver. Apricot-fawn, with a black face mask. Learn more about pug colors here. Your eyes may bulge with excitement. It sounds too good to be true! These puppies are sold by backyard breeders. Backyard breeders are amateur breeders who breed dogs in substandard and unethical ways. So skip the cheap puppy ads and Craigslist posts and focus on finding a reputable breeder. Need help weeding out the bad guys? The extra cost of getting a pug: The price you pay to own a pug is just the beginning. After that comes other expenses , like vaccines, check-ups, food, supplies, pet insurance, training and more. How much did your pug cost? Click here to learn more pug stuff. Pin for later! Less - Square-proportioned, compact and of a cobby build, the pug is a large dog in a little space. Its gait is strong and jaunty, but with a slight roll of the hindquarters. Its distinctive expression is soft and solicitous. Its forehead has large, deep wrinkles. Its coat is fine, smooth and short. The Pug breed is often described by the Latin phrase multum in parvo, or "much in little" or "a lot of dog in a small space", alluding to the Pug's remarkable and charming personality, despite its small size. Pugs are strong willed but rarely aggressive, and are suitable for families with children. The majority of the breed is very fond of children and sturdy enough to properly play with them. Depending on their owner's mood, they can be quiet and docile but also vivacious and teasing. Pugs tend to be intuitive and sensitive to the moods of their owners and are usually eager to please them. Pugs tend to have a somewhat lazy nature and spend a lot of time napping. They are often called "shadows" because they follow their owners around and like to stay close to the action, craving attention and affection from their owners. History There are various theories regarding the origin of the Pug breed, but the most generally accepted is that they originated in the Orient, and are a smooth-coated, longer-legged type of Pekingese. They have been well known in Europe since at least the 16th Century. After gaining favor with Royalty, the breed became very popular and even more well known. The AKC recognized the Pug in .Pin it to remember the Price of Pugs Why are Pugs so expensive? So just why are Pugs so expensive? One reason is because Pugs, like most other Brachycephalic dogs with flat faces and large heads , are most often born via cesarean section. Pugs are also susceptible to numerous orthopedic and hereditary diseases—so reputable breeders will conduct testing on both parents to help ensure a healthy litter. This test screens for Hip Dysplasia and Patellar Luxation. Breeders also have the option to test for Elbow Dysplasia with this screening. This important test screens for Necrotizing meningoencephalitis NME , a fatal brain disorder that can kill Pug puppies. This metabolic disease breaks down the red blood cells of a young Pug. The price will depend on several factors: The location of the breeder. The rules of supply and demand pertain to dogs as well so larger metropolitan areas are often more expensive. The pedigree of the parent Pugs. Pugs that have participated in sanctioned competitions have more expensive litters. Whether the Pug is a show quality dog or a pet quality dog. Show quality puppies with a future in competitive dog shows and breeding are more expensive. The age of the Pug. Puppies are definitely more expensive; you may occasionally find a breeder selling a retired breeding Pug or a Pug that originated at the breeder but has been returned. The color of the Pug. AKC recognized two colors : black and fawn. The Canadian Kennel Club recognizes fawn, silver fawn and black. The Federation Cynologique Internationale and the Kennel Club of the UK both recognize silver sometimes called silver-fawn , apricot often called apricot-fawn , fawn and black. The less common the color, the more expensive the dog. Attend a sanctioned dog show and talk with Pug breeders and competitors for recommendations. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations regarding reputable breeders. Do an online search for complaints. Check the Facebook page of the breeder and read through comments. Remember, however, comments can be deleted by the page owner. When you find a breeder and want to determine if they are reputable: Ask for references. The breeder should be happy to share the name and contact information for customers. Ask questions. Lots of questions. The breeder should be glad to share the test results from the health tests and screenings. Ask how often the dogs are bred. Ask to tour the kennels. Are they well maintained? Do the dogs look healthy? Beware of operations that will not let you tour the kennels and breeders that want to meet you in a parking lot to hand over the puppy. Be prepared for questions. The breeder should ask YOU questions as well; be suspicious if the breeder has no questions about your past history with pets, your living situation, etc. Ask if the breeder will take the Pug back if necessary. Ask for a contract. If medical problems are diagnosed, the breeder should readily take the pup back and provide a full refund. Pug breeders may adopt out of the area but, nonetheless, you will want to go to the breeder to meet the parents, view the kennels and bring home your puppy in person. This will add to your expenses—but breeders that transport a puppy by air are putting the dog at risk. If you want to buy a Pug online, please think again. There are numerous scams; people spend thousands of dollars for a dog and never receive a puppy. AKC warns potential pet parents to be wary of any seller asking for payment by Venmo, in gift cards or as a wire transfer. Dogs purchased from puppy mills can mean years of heartache and expensive veterinary care. The pros of purchasing from a Pug breeder: You may be able to select a puppy—including a choice of color and gender. A reputable breeder will be passionate about Pugs and will a resource for years to come. The cons of purchasing from a Pug breeder You will pay more for a Pug from a breeder than a rescue or shelter. If you find a breeder who has Pug puppies for sale at prices far lower than you are seeing from other breeders, you must suspect you are dealing with a backyard breeder who has not done health screening, with an online seller who is operating a puppy mill or is running a scam. You will need to wait until puppies are available. You will need to do your own due diligence to select a reputable breeder. Pugs in rescues are far less expensive that those at a breeder. Pugs under a year old will be the most costly. The dogs that are up for adoption at Pug rescues may be there for a variety of reasons: Death of an owner. Lost Pugs that the rescue had seen on shelter websites. Pugs a breeder no longer wanted. Whatever the reason, the Pugs in rescue may or may not come with papers, depending on whether or not the dog was surrendered with papers. You may also find Pug rescues at pet expos and special events in your area. Rescues will often have a booth with information on the rescue and a few adoptable dogs. Most dogs at purebred rescues are pulled from shelters, often open-intake shelters that may not be no-kill shelters. You will be able to adopt a Pug for far less money than purchasing a Pug from a breeder. You will be able to talk with people who are passionate about Pugs about the individual Pug you are interested in adopting. Our most recent search brought up a healthy, 7-month-old Pug puppy so you never know. Your dog may or may not be a purebred Pug and may or may not have papers. The least expensive option when it comes to Pug prices is the shelter, either a municipal shelter or a privately-operated shelter. Are you a senior? A member of the military or law enforcement? Many shelters offer special discounts. To locate a Pug at a shelter, call your local shelter or start your search online. Click on the link of adoptable Pugs in the top left corner; you can then enter your zip code to see Pugs near you. The listings will include both rescues and shelters. Unlike adopting from a Pug rescue, dogs at a shelter will generally be housed at the shelter although an increasing number utilize foster homes whenever they can, especially for puppies. If the dog is housed at the shelter, you may not know a lot about his or her personality. Talk with the shelter staff and ask if the dog has been temperament tested and if they can tell you if the dog is skittish, shy, outgoing, has any prior training, etc. And while you may see dogs listed as a Pug at a shelter, that may or may not mean they are Pugs, purebred or mixed. Shelters use their best judgement, often while intaking many dogs, so sometimes the accuracy of the breed is questionable. Since Pugs do have such a distinctive look, however, you can use your judgement to see if the dog displays usual Pug characteristics and markings. Ask the shelter if they have any background on the dogs; you may be surprised to find a puppy whose purebred mother came in as a pregnant lost dog and gave birth at the shelter. It definitely happens. The Pros of Adopting a Pug from a Shelter You are saving a life, not only of the dog you adopt but of the next dog who will be rescued due to the kennel that is now clear. Your new dog will have received a long list of veterinary services. You will have the love of a dog whose price was far less than that of a dog from a breeder. You may not know the history of the dog. FAQ What is the cheapest price for a Pug? If you find low-cost purebred Pugs listed online, please consider that you may be supporting a puppy mill. What is the Teacup Pug price? These dogs are the result of breeding the smallest runt dog of one litter to the smallest dog of another litter, producing smaller than usual Pugs—and selling them for sometimes twice as much as a traditional Pug. As you might expect, this can mean additional health problems for the puppies. Are Pugs expensive to own? While their small size means Pugs are not as expensive to own as larger breeds, due to the potential health issues discussed above they can be expensive in terms of veterinary care. Pet insurance is a good investment to help cover vet issues as they arise. Pin it to remember the Price of Pugs Posted on Last updated:. In Canada it is CAD to .So, when purchasing from a different state, you also must consider travel fees when buying a Pug from a different country. Why Are Pugs So Expensive? Pugs are a popular dog breed currently taking 28th spot on the list of the most popular dogs in America. Lots of people want a Pug so this demand tends to increase their price. Popularity alone does not control the price of a Pug. There are many other factors that make Pugs expensive. A major one is breeding fees. It is not easy to breed a healthy Pug. Professional breeders do not just want to sell you any kind of dog. They want to show you a puppy that is cute, adheres to the breed standard and is in good health. To breed a puppy like this takes lots of money that will be reflected in the final sale price. Most of the fees that are involved within the pregnancy and birthing of Pugs are because they are brachycephalic. As a brachycephalic breed it is difficult for mothers to give birth to their pups. Going into labor is body intensive and difficulty breathing only makes the process more strenuous. Not only that but Pugs tend to have narrow hips. The heads of puppies tend to be large in proportion to their body and sometimes they cannot easily pass through the birth canal. For these two reasons Pug breeders often elect to do C-sections. Finally, before the mother can give birth, breeders must ensure that she and the father are in good health. In Pugs it is common to see brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, hip and elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, and eye conditions. The Pug Dog Club of America recommends that all Pugs are screened for hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and necrotizing meningoencephalitis. Pugs from these breeders are usually more expensive because breeders go to great lengths to breed healthy and high quality dogs. Not only that, but they also tend to give you a dog with all of its vaccines and registration papers. The price of a Pug can really go up when you consider genetic health testing, vet visits, membership documentations and registration fees. No documentation with the sale. No available health care records or genetic testing results of the parents. Breeders that advertise their dogs on websites like Craigslist at a cheaper price. They often breed dogs other than just Pugs. To be a part of these clubs breeders must be certified and approved to have met breeding requirements. As you search for a Pug keep in mind the type of puppy you want. Do you want a specific color? Most often breeders sell fawn or black Pugs. If you want a rare color you are going to have to do some extra searching. What kind of temperament do you want? Pugs are very social. In general they tend to be friendly, affectionate, playful and mischievous. However some may be more timid than others. Will it be healthy? Puppies should have a brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome score of zero. Sometimes you might fall in love with a Pug in a picture but later find out it is missing its health papers. In most cases you should avoid this type of puppy. Reputable breeders should be able to provide you with health papers and registration papers. They will always be clear about the kind of Pug you are buying and their pedigree. They will give you straightforward answers on anything you ask and will show you any paperwork that you ask for. They will also allow you to see the puppy and the mother. Buying from a breeder might not be the cheapest option, but it does ensure you that you are getting a healthy Pug. Cost Of Keeping A Pug Pugs live for between 12 and 15 years so adopting one is a long-term commitment. Out of all the years, the first one will generally be the most expensive. Where does this money go? We will breakdown their typical ownership costs below… Healthcare and Insurance There is no way around it. If you do get a Pug, it is highly recommended that you get insurance. Pugs often have unforeseen medical expenses because they are a brachycephalic breed. You have to be careful when exercising your Pug, especially if you live in hot areas and during the summer months. Overexertion and heat can cause make it harder for them to breathe, and if you do not recognize the signs of heat stress, your dog could end up at the vet ER. You could also find yourself paying for treatment for some of the common health issues within Pugs. Some of these include: Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome, Fold Dermatitis, obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, and patellar luxation. Dog Food Pugs need a well-balanced diet. It is not a good idea to just give your dog whatever is left over from your last meal. They need high quality kibble that is specifically made for their breed. Pugs are small dogs so they should be eating food that is specifically made for small dogs. Puppies will eat at most 80 pounds of dry food every year, while adults eat about pounds. Some brands will cost you more. The following are some examples of kibble that you can buy for your Pug. Food Brands.

Characteristics Life Span As pointed out in the intro paragraph Shepradors generally live between 10 and 12 years, and sometimes they can reach the age of .However, they tend to be cautious with strangers, thanks to their German Shepherd ancestors. Caring Grooming: their shorthaired coat needs regular brushing: every day in the shedding season spring and autumn and three-to-five times a week in the rest of the year. Activity level With two highly energetic parent breeds, these dogs need an active life, so be ready to spend several hours a day keeping your pet busy. A Labrador Shepherd is generally 20 to 26 inches tall cm. Besides being active, you should have a large house, with a yard to provide her with enough space to move around. The Labrador Shepherd likes cold climates rather than hot weather, so be sure to have the ability to keep her comfortable all year. Further Reading Top 10 Dog Sports 2. They have it in their blood, and can successfully do police work, including searching, tracking, rescue, or guard work. If you care about your flowers and plants, you should also consider building an enclosure to keep your dog away from them. When you bring her inside, provide her with toys and games to keep her busy. She will enjoy any activity that stimulates her mind, such as dog puzzles or training sessions. The vacuum cleaner will be your new best friend German Shepherd Lab Mix is a double-coated breed, which means they have an undercoat next to the skin with longer hair over the top. Dogs from this crossbreed shed a lot, especially when the seasons change. If you want to keep her hair shiny and healthy, you should take time to brush her for at least minutes, three-to-five times a week. A consistent brushing schedule will help you reduce the amount of hair around the house. Besides brushing, you should include in your schedule: cleaning her ears once a week , brushing her teeth at least three times a week , and cleaning her eyes when needed. While this sounds like a lot, on the other hand, she only needs to take a bath about once a month. Exercising her on a concrete surface could help you keep her nails in good shape and reduce the number of visits to the vet. Always buy non-toxic toys, and substitute them with new ones as soon as they start deteriorating to avoid accidents. Your dog will need some strong toys, adapted to her age. Most hybrids tend to have a balanced personality, but as your puppy could be the result of more crosses , she may not inherit the exact characteristics you want in a dog; your future dog is prone to a series of health issues, caused by her bloodline. Obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases and diabetes are a lot more common with these dogs, but she could also develop epilepsy, skin allergies, bloat or cardiovascular diseases, these being common among Labradors and German Shepherds. From my point of view, most estimations work well for average dogs. You should buy your dog from a responsible breeder In most cases, a Labrador Shepherd has high potential and is a great candidate for the title of the perfect family dog. However, as mentioned before, hybrid dogs could have unpredictable coat colors, personalities, and health issues, so buying your puppy from a reliable source is as close as you can get to a clear image about your future dog. Generally, this hybrid can be 26 inches 66 cm tall and can weigh up to 88 pounds 40 kg. Taking into account the height and weight of its German Shepherd and Labrador mix parents, this crossbreed is a medium to a large-sized dog. So measurements can still vary more or less from that range. Good news for you! It will shower you with love and loyalty, and make you proud with its intelligence and playfulness. Do you think you can deal with this? Shepradors has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, but some of them can reach this age. We all want our pets to live longer and spend more years with us, so read this section to avoid and better prepare against genetic illnesses. Conclusion As you could see above, when buying a Sheprador you get the best of two great breeds. I think that this mix of German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever makes for the perfect family dog — kind, loyal, patient with children, and protective. However, they have endless energy and require a lot of time and attention, which makes them suitable for active families only. So are you ready to handle such a dog? Leave us a comment below and tell us about your personal experience with this unique crossbreed. 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. But I adopted my little Hank recently and he seems both very playful and very cuddly. He likes to snuggle a lot but is very active too. Just wondering if I should expect him to go crazy one of these days? We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. It is, therefore, no surprise that some breeders are starting to mix the two. Considering whether a German Shepherd Lab Mix is right for you? Read on for everything you need to know about this amazing mixed-breed dog. Lab German Shepherd Mix Overview Size — 22 to 25 inches tall and 50 to 80 pounds Coat — Medium length, double coat, color varies Shedding — Yes Temperament — Intelligent, active, and loyal, but can be wary of strangers Trainable — Highly, but prone to destructive behavior when bored Activity — Highly active needs two hours of activity per day Best For — Families and people with active lifestyles and lots of time to spend with them What is a German Shepherd Lab Mix? As these dogs are roughly the same size, the mother can be of either breed as long as she is larger than the father, to ensure against any difficulty in the birthing process. Sheprador Appearance As is the case for most mix-breed dogs, it is a bit of a gamble what you will get when these two come together. They might have the pointed ears of a German Shepherd or the floppy ears of a Labrador. There is nothing to do but wait and see. But luckily, both German Shepherds and Labradors are attractive dogs, so however they turn out they should be handsome. That said, we can make a few generalizations about the appearance of Shepradors. Size As both German Shepherds and Labradors are medium- to large-sized dogs, you can expect their mixed offspring to be the same. German Shepherds are the larger of the two and are usually between 50 and 90 pounds and 22 to 26 inches tall. Labradors are only a little bit smaller, at 50 to 80 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. So expect your German Shepherd Lab Mix to stand between 22 and 25 inches tall and weigh 50 to 80 pounds. You can narrow this range down a bit by looking at the size of the parents. Color The color of these gorgeous mixed-breed dogs is also highly variable, and you might end up with a pooch of a solid coat color, like Labs, or striking mixed coloring, like German Shepherds. A lot of this depends on the color of the Labrador parent, whether they are yellow, black, or chocolate. As a general rule, the darker the lab parent, the darker the coat of the pup. But you also get white German Shepherd Dogs, which can result in striking white Shepradors. Coat When it comes to coat length, you should expect in most cases that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will have a shorter coat, like that of a Labrador. This seems to be a dominant gene, and the vast majority of German Shepherd Lab Mixes end up with this type of coat. The dog will certainly have a double coat, as this is a feature of both breeds. The undercoat will be soft and fluffy, and the guard coat rough. This does mean that they shed—a lot. This is not the type of dog to have at home if anyone in the household suffers from allergies. Shepherd Lab Mix Puppy Lab German Shepherd Mix Character While temperament is again unpredictable with mix-breeds, both German Shepherds and Labradors are intelligent, active, and loyal dogs, so you can expect their offspring to share these traits. German Shepherds are very intelligent and have a natural protective instinct. They have a tendency to guard whatever they consider to be theirs. Labradors were originally bred as gun dogs, to retrieve the wild game of hunters. As such, they are very obedient and tend to be pleasers, and they like nothing more than spending time with their humans. As both breeds are intelligent and highly trainable, you can expect these characteristics to appear in a Sheprador. However, whether they will be a guard dog that can be aggressive with strangers, or a pleaser that is great with children, you will have to wait and see. While dogs are a mix of nature and nurture, if you want to take a Lab German Shepherd mix into a family home, or if you are a first-time dog owner, you will want to be careful about which individual dog you choose. Activity Levels However their personality turns out, you are going to have a dog with a lot of energy. These larger dogs that are used to working need around two hours of exercise each day. Their intelligence also means they get bored easily, and when they do get bored, they can have a tendency toward destructive behavior, which means digging and chewing. They do best with active owners with whom they can go walking, hiking, and running. Whether these dogs will like swimming is a coin toss. While Labradors love the water, German Shepherds are a bit more wary. But their size and adventurous nature mean they can be trained to love the water. So you have a good chance that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will be a swimmer. These dogs are loyal and love being around their humans. You will find them at their happiest and healthiest when you make them part of the family and shower them with love. Exercise Ideally, your Sheprador will need around two hours of exercise per day. This might be more than just a long walk, as their high energy levels mean they will like to run as well. They will enjoy tackling tough trails with you at their side, and the retriever nature of Labradors also means this breed is likely to enjoy a good game of fetch. Bear in mind that these dogs will need this level of exercise rain or shine, or they will become frustrated and start engaging in destructive behavior. This is not only bad for them in general, but can put excess pressure on their hips, which are also prone to issues. Intellectual Stimulation German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs are invariably highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train but also means they get bored very easily. When they do get bored, they are smart enough to find trouble, and you may come home to quite the scene. These dogs need to spend time with people to occupy their minds, and they also benefit from intellectually stimulating games. But expect them to make short work of these challenges, as they are chewers. You will be getting them new games quite often. Companionship Labradors need a lot of companionship, and this is a trait their offspring with German Shepherds are likely to share. Not only will they get bored and start acting up, but they can become depressed. Grooming Both German Shepherds and Labradors are shedders, so you can be sure their Sheprador offspring will be as well. This is just a fact of life with Shepradors. They will need to be brushed at least twice a week, and as often as once a day during the shedding seasons fall and spring. As well as brushing, invest in a good quality vacuum cleaner that has special functionality to help you pick up dog hair. These dogs are also likely to enjoy jumping up on the couch for a snuggle and a snooze. Invest in coverings and be sure your swanky vacuum cleaner has an attachment for upholstery. Their coat is not the only part of their grooming to attend to. You need to clean their teeth three times a week, with a brush or with dental treats. Finally, trim their nails every three months. This is both for their health and the health of your home, as their nails can damage your floors. For a big dog like this, it can be a good idea to take them to the vet to get their nails clipped. But if you feel confident to do this at home, check out our list of the best nail clippers. Diet German Shepherd Lab Mixes are big dogs that have lots of energy, but they also have a tendency toward obesity, which means they have to get their energy from good sources. This means high-quality protein and fats over carbohydrates. Preferably this means meals made from quality meats rather than meals or byproducts. When looking at the ingredient list, look for named meats at the first ingredient. Lab German Shepherd Mixes also benefit from novel proteins in their diet, as they can be prone to allergies. Dogs tend to develop allergies to the meats they eat the most, which often means beef and chicken. When they are puppies, Shepradors should be fed three times a day, and this should be cut down to two times a day from about four months of age. As a rule, dogs need 25 to 30 calories per pound of their weight per day, though you should watch their individual weight and energy level to see if you need to adjust their meals up or down. You can also check the label on your dog food to get a rough estimate of how much you should be feeding your Sheprador. Of course the amount will also vary depending on how often you exercise your dog. Known Health Problems While there is no limit to the number of health problems that a dog of any breed can develop, or they might not develop any at all, some dog breeds are more prone to some conditions than others. German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs have the potential to develop the health problems that are common in goth German Shepherds and Labradors. These include: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia — This is a condition where the hip and elbow joints do not develop normally and that can cause extreme pain and arthritis in later life. For more information check out our list of Glucosamine for Dogs. Progressive Retinal Atrophy — This is a group of degenerative diseases that affect the eyes and can lead to blindness. Shepradors are also prone to eat whatever is put in front of them, so you need to be conscious of what you are feeding them. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus — Poor diet can lead the stomach to dilate and expand, in turn leading to a twisting of the stomach that is life-threatening. It can block the flow of blood to the abdomen, leading to rupture of the stomach walls, and put pressure on the diaphragm thereby inhibiting the lungs. Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy — This is a condition that affects the spinal cord and leads to progressive weakness of the hind limbs, and eventually paralysis. Panosteitis — This is an inflammation of the outer surface of the long bones in the legs, resulting in a shifting lameness and making bones more susceptible to breaks. Allergies — Dogs can be born with allergies or develop them over time. Dogs often develop allergies if they eat the same foods consistently. Underactive Thyroid — The thyroid manages hormones, and an underactive thyroid is unable to secrete the required hormones. This can result in weight gain, lethargy, and cold intolerance. At this time, their energy levels will drop and they will need some changes in their diet and exercise. GSD Lab Mix Puppy But no matter how well trained they are, if they are left to get bored for too long, they can engage in some pretty destructive behavior, such as digging and chewing everything in sight. You have been forewarned. The highly assertive nature of German Shepherds means they do not respond well to domination training. They are likely to revolt when subjected to punishment. The best way to train a Labrador German Shepherd Mix is through positive reinforcement. Labradors are pleasers that love to make their humans happy. This means their offspring are also likely to feel the same way. So they will respond rapidly to training based on rewards for positive behavior. Deal with this behavior early, with specific training for dealing with children and strangers. They are very active and need lots of attention, so they need to be in households that support this. But they do great with adults and kids, so they can be a great family pet. Remember that German Shepherd Labrador Mixes need around two hours of exercise every day, so they need someone who can commit to that level of activity. But at the same time, it means they are the type of dog you can take on all of your adventures if you like hiking and trailing. They also need attention and stimulation throughout the day. If anyone in the house suffers with pet hair allergies, this is another reason Labrador German Shepherd Mixes are not the right dog for you, as they shed a lot. Consider something like a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle instead. Also, ask for medical records of the parents, to see what health conditions the pup might be prone to in the future. If you decide to adopt a mature dog, spend a bit of time with them to see what their temperament is like. History of the Breeds German Shepherd German Shepherds originated in Germany in the late 19th century as a sheep herding dog. But, because they are very intelligent, trainable, obedient, and strong, they have since moved into many different working roles including police, military, search and rescue, and disability assistance. German Shepherds can have a reputation for being aggressive, but they are more alert and wary than aggressive. They can have a tendency to become overprotective of family and territory. But if socialized and trained properly, this tendency should be highly manageable. German Shepherds are the second-most popular dog in the United States and the seventh-most popular dog in the United Kingdom. Labrador Labradors, also known as Labrador Retrievers, were initially used in Newfoundland as fishing dogs to retrieve fish that had gotten away. Because they are incredibly friendly but also intelligent and therefore easy to train, today Labradors are favored as disability assistance dogs, often helping individuals with blindness, ptsd, mobility issues and autism. Labradors are the most popular dog breed in the United States. They are intelligent and therefore easy to train, and loving and loyal, so they will quickly feel like part of the family. However, they do need a lot of exercise and attention, so adopting a Sheprador into your family is a commitment. German Shepherds have a reputation for being aggressive, but it is not really deserved. They are natural watchdogs and reserved around strangers, but they are not aggressive dogs that are likely to attack. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which means easy to control. Beagles, Poodles, Boxers, Golden Retrievers and Spaniels are all extremely friendly dogs as well, many specifically bred to be companions. They do best with active people or families who are full of people to love them. Like all dogs, they will do their best when they are cared for properly. This means training them appropriately, exercising them, keeping them mentally stimulated, and feeding them well. But these loyal pooches will repay your care and commitment with a lot of love and affection. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Well, you get the German Shepherd Lab mix, a lovable crossbreed with all the great personality traits you could ever want in a family dog. Also known as Lab Shepherd mixes or Shepradors, these mixed breed canines are highly sought after. The parent breeds are some of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Like all crossbreeds, Shepradors combine the physical and personality traits of their parents, resulting in a one-of-a-kind companion. Because they are a designer dog , there are no established breeding guidelines or standards. Oftentimes, pedigree information is scarce as well, creating a lot of unknowns. Canines are fully capable of crossbreeding on their own. In fact, many of the purebred dogs we know today are a result of centuries of careful breeding. As we mentioned earlier, this crossbreed is a direct result of breeding purebred German Shepherds with Labrador Retrievers. Labrador Retrievers have a very long history that dates back all the way to the s. Back then, they were working dogs that often helped out fishermen. Eventually, these dogs made their way to England where they became companions for European royalty. German Shepherds were working dogs, too. However, their main job was to herd sheep and other livestock for farmers. Today, Labradors and German Shepherds are very popular the world over. .Though, they are popular for very different reasons. Typically, Labs are known for their companionship. They make great family pets and are often used as guide dogs for those with disabilities. Meanwhile, German Shepherds are revered for their athleticism and intelligence. German Shepherd Lab Mix Temperament The beauty of mixed breed dogs is that they take on traits from both of their parents. German Shepradors are a perfect example of this. These dogs are a joy to be around. Whether that required physical work or simply good behavior, these pups are up for the task! Like all dogs, German Shepherds and their subsequent crossbreed are products of their environment. Shepradors make great family dogs. The combination of intelligent thinking and loyalty can prove to be useful in a home setting. Your watchdog will do all they can to protect your home while still being down for cuddles. However, helping your pup grow up to be obedient and well-behaved is manageable. You see, these dogs are very intelligent. In fact, some might say that they are too intelligent for their own good. This mainly comes from the German Shepherd side of the dog. German Shepherds are notorious for being stubborn. Shepradors can take on that personality trait, making the training process a bit more challenging. They may require more time and patience to truly understand things. Another issue you might encounter with German Shepherd mixes is the need for regular mental stimulation. Because they are so intelligent, you must constantly challenge their minds to keep them happy. Like all dogs, Shepradors do best when positive reinforcement is the training method of choice. While dominance-based training used to be the go-to, several studies have shown that punishments do more harm than good. German Shepherd mixes thrive when you use a reward system. Showering your dog with praise and providing plenty of treats is the best way to instill the training techniques. Despite all of this, you may see pups with vastly different characteristics. Genetics is not an exact science. Dominant genes from one parent dog may take over, causing the puppy to look more like one breed than the other. As a result, the crossbreed is going to fall into that same category. You can use information about their parents for reference, but several factors will contribute to their true adult size. Generally, males can weigh upwards of 88 pounds when fully grown. They will stand between 22 and 26 inches at the withers. This is the point between the shoulder blades of the dog. Females are typically smaller than males. You may come across females as small as 35 pounds. Though, most will be around 70 to 80 pounds. As for height, females tend to be between 20 and 24 inches at the withers. Both of the parent breeds are pretty athletic, so most mixed pups will be as well. They fall somewhere in the middle. Depending on their activity levels, you might notice strong muscle development on their hind legs. These dogs usually have wide snouts and dark noses. Their eyes are large and brown. Some pups may have light eyes, but this is quite rare. Genetic variations in the parent breeds can lead to lighter eyes, but a vast majority are going to have big brown eyes. One characteristic where you will see a lot of variation among these dogs is the ears. Most Labs have large ears that flop down over the sides of the head Meanwhile, perky triangular ears are one of the most defining traits of the German Shepherds. The interesting thing about the ears is that you will have to wait and see whether they stand tall or flop down. Puppies are born with soft and fluffy ears. As they grow older, the cartilage in their ears may or may not strengthen to help them stand up. Some pups even have a combination of the two ear styles! Colors Coat colors can vary across the board with these pups. German Shepherds have an iconic tri-color coat. Distinct patterns of gold, black, and white cover the body. The most common is gold. However, black and pure-white Labs exist as well. They may have multi-colored coats or solid ones. Lifespan The average lifespan for a German Shepherd Lab mix is between 10 and 12 years. This falls in line with the life expectancy of the parent breeds. Generally, larger dogs tend to have a shorter lifespan than smaller ones. Many factors will affect how much time these dogs have. Health issues and a poor lifestyle can cut that lifespan short. On the same token, extremely healthy pups are fully capable of living past 12 years of age. Possible Health Issues Like all dogs, Shepradors are not immune to disease and health problems. In fact, they may be susceptible to more issues. The problem with mixing breeds is that it opens up the possibilities of health complications in the future. Hereditary problems from both parents can be passed to the puppy. Unfortunately, German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers are known to suffer from a few different ailments. Here are the most common health concerns to be wary of. Dysplasia is a musculoskeletal condition that often affects dogs later in life. However, it takes years to develop and can be triggered by issues as a young pup. Take hip dysplasia for example. Hip dysplasia can cause debilitating pain. Many dogs who suffer from it have a hard time standing up. They may exhibit signs of extreme weakness in the hind legs, resulting in a noticeably different posture. The hip sockets become malformed, causing mobility issues with the hip joint. While some dogs are born with it, poor development as a puppy can exacerbate the problem. There are treatment options for hip and elbow dysplasia. Veterinarians can perform surgery early on to correct the problem and provide relief. If your dog is already suffering from it, physical therapy and joint supplements can provide relief from pain. Bloat Contrary to popular belief, bloat is not an innocent gas problem with dogs. It occurs when dogs eat too fast or exert physical exercise too soon after eating. Excess air is swallowed, filling the stomach. Eventually, the stomach can twist on itself. This restricts blood flow throughout the body. Provide small meals and prevent your dog from playing for at least 30 minutes. To control fast eating, you can utilize slow-feeding bowls or puzzle toys. They create an obstacle that forces the dog to eat slower than normal, which can do a lot to prevent GDV. Ocular Issues Eye diseases, such as progressive retinal atrophy, are pretty common with both parent breeds. The tissue within the eye can degenerate over time. This causes vision loss. From there, you can provide supplements or foods rich in beta carotene to slow its progression. Diet and Exercise Requirements Shepherd Labrador mixes are incredibly active dogs. They love nothing more than playing and getting tons of exercise. To make matters worse, a lack of exercise can turn into a lasting problem. You need to start your pup on the right foot and establish a healthy lifestyle right off the bat. Go for runs and toss chew toys around the yard. You can break up exercise time in manageable chunks throughout the day to make things easier. As long as you get those 90 minutes in, your dog should have no problem staying healthy. When it comes to diet, you must be just as vigilant! These dogs have insatiable appetites. However, you need to ensure that their food is meeting all of their nutritional needs. It should use wholesome proteins like chicken, beef, or fish. The dog food should also have complex carbs and healthy fats like fish oil. Steer clear of anything that has artificial ingredients or unnecessary fillers. Those foods will do more harm than good. The goal is to provide your dog with muscle-building protein that will keep their body in good shape. As a good rule of thumb, dogs will need about 30 calories of food for each pound of body weight. This usually amounts to about 4 cups of dry kibble a day. That said, foods can vary dramatically when it comes to nutritional density. We recommend splitting their caloric requirements into two small meals a day. One meal in the morning and one in the evening will keep their energy levels stable as they go about their active lifestyles. Plus, splitting the meals will help to avoid issues like bloat. However, thick coats need a bit of extra work. GSDs have double costs. The outer layer of hair is thinner and easier to manage. Meanwhile, the inner coat is thick and dense. It provides insulation in those cold winter months. German Shepherd Lab mixes can inherit that thick coat. They will go through shedding cycles a couple of times a year, resulting in a mess of fur throughout your home! With regular brushings, you can keep the fallout to manageable levels while keeping your pup clean. These pups make great family dogs. They get along just fine with kids as long as you socialize them early on. As always, you should never leave your dog alone with young kids. These crossbred dogs are fully capable of attacking people, so you should exercise caution and always keep a watchful eye. They should know not to pull their tail or agitate the dog in any way. Are German Shepherd Lab mixes good guard dogs? Shepradors make great guard dogs. Plus, they tend to be a bit suspicious of strangers. Are these dogs aggressive? This all depends on their upbringing. If you take the time to properly train and socialize these dogs, they will be gentle and loving. However, if the dogs are abused or trained with punishment, they could exhibit aggressive behavior. How big to German Shepherd Lab mixes get? Males can weigh as much as 88 pounds and grow to 26 inches tall at the withers. Do Shepradors get along with other dogs? German Shepherd Labrador mixes do just fine with other dogs. However, they must be properly socialized first. Exposure to other animals is key during their development. They should be introduced to new family dogs slowly to prevent any aggressive behavior. Do Shepradors make good working dogs? Thanks to their intelligence and high trainability, Labrashepherds make fine working dogs. They do particularly well herding livestock. Conclusion German Shepherd Lab mixes are a joy to raise. If you have an active lifestyle to keep them fit, they will be a great addition to your family. Treat them well and these pups will spend their lives being a loving canine companion. Search Dog Breeds. German Shepherd Lab mix puppies German Shepherd Lab mix dogs are a combination of energetic friendliness and natural protection. As well trained adults they have the potential to make great herding, hunting, retrieving, therapy, service or pet dogs. German Shepherd Lab mixes are affectionate with their family, but need plenty of exercise, shed heavily, and can be destructive if left alone for long periods. That is, they have one parent of each pedigree. So there is huge variation in how they look, and no standard appearance. Some have the telltale muzzle and tall ears of the German Shepherd, others more resemble a Labrador. The color of their coat will depend on the coloring of their parents. For example, a black Lab German Shepherd mix is likely to have a dark coat, and a German Shepherd yellow Lab mix is likely to have a mid-toned coat. There are even arresting-looking white German Shepherd Lab crosses. An ultra-warm undercoat and a coarse outer coat to protect them from the elements as they work outdoors. This is because the gene for long coats is recessive and very unusual among Labs. Gathering up their lost hair will be a never-ending task! A good vacuum cleaner is essential. This might be reason enough to choose a different crossbreed if you have a busy family or someone with allergies in the home. German Shepherds are large dogs. They stand 22 — 26 inches tall at their shoulder blades, and weigh 49 — 88 pounds. Meanwhile, Labs are a medium sized breed, 22 — 25 inches tall at their shoulders, and 55 — 80 pounds on the scales. A Labrador German shepherd mix could be as petite as their smallest parent or as big as their largest parent. Your German Shepherd Lab mix could weigh anything from 55 pounds to 80 pounds. As usual, the lower end of the range is typically made up of female dogs, and the top end is dominated by the boys. They love to interact with people, show their affection, and get on well with children. Also, the German Shepherd is confident, courageous and smart. They are loyal and full of life. Furthermore, Labradors and German Shepherds are both fast learners and eager to please. German Shepherds in particular need productive ways to channel their intelligence, or they will get into mischief to stave off boredom. Your German Shepherd Lab mix could inherit any combination of the traits of their parents, which is why meeting both parents before committing to bringing home a puppy is so important. Socialization Socialization is the process of making a dog comfortable with other animals, people, places and activities. Even for breeds that are known to be friendly and easy-going, like Labradors, socialization is very important. German Shepherd Lab mixes are likely to inherit a love of people and company from both sides of their family tree. But socializing them properly as puppies will be vital to give them the confidence they need in meeting new people. German Shepherds, despite their great loyalty to their family, can be wary of strangers. So thorough socialization from puppyhood is essential, even for a mix. For instance, Socialization can involve having new people call over to the house regularly so your pup gets used to new faces and voices. It can also involve introducing your puppy to new dogs, cats, children and other animals so that they do not become fearful or territorial. A young dog in good health could require even more. They will also need human company for much of the day, and training to keep those big brains from getting bored. They are working dogs at heart. Highly motivated to learn and impress you with their ability to follow instructions. Like with any dog, training them is an ongoing commitment that lasts a lifetime. But with your ultra smart dog it should be a satisfying and rewarding one. German Shepherd and Labrador Health Magnification of health problems in pedigree dog breeds has become a well-documented problem. Labrador Health One of the biggest health problems facing Labradors today is hip and elbow dysplasia — looseness in the joints that eventually leads to painful arthritis. Another is progressive retinal atrophy, a gradual failure of the retina at the back of their eyes that can ultimately leave them blind. Also, Labs are also notoriously greedy, and prone to obesity if their penchant for snacking is indulged too often. Another less serious but common issue in Labs is ear infections. These are easily treated but may require veterinary care and frequent inspections. In addition, they are more than usually prone to: Gastrointestinal diseases. There is no way to find out if your puppy will develop any of these conditions. All you can do is to take care of your dog properly to prevent some of these severe medical conditions. Your growing dog should maintain a healthy weight because extra weight can be an additional weight on its spine. The ideal dog nutrition will also depend on any nutritional needs of your dog. If you are training your dog, never give treats as a reward. This encourages obesity and will only cause more problems for your dog. Here are top dog food brands that your German Shepherd Lab will surely love. Its core ingredients include ground brown rice, lamb meal, white rice, and chicken. It is all natural and contains no preservatives. Even a picky puppy will surely love this dog food. Precise Holistic Complete Large Breed Adult Formula Precise Holistic contains chicken, brown rice, chicken fat, and oatmeal and is considered the best organic dog food for large dogs. This comes with extra calcium and phosphorus needed by dogs to achieve its full, large size. This is a portion of irresistible dog food for large breed dogs such as your Lab German Shepherd mix. Just like any other dog, never give your German Shepherd Lab the following human food. Not all human food is safe for dogs. Alcohol Chicken bones or cooked chicken bones Grapes or raisins Salty foods and junk food Chocolate, coffee, or tea Onions, chives, and garlic If you want your dog to grow strong and healthy, you need to give them the best care in the world. So, start with their nutrition! That means you need to stay away from the worst dry dog food, and try out the best dry dog food instead. Your hairy friend comes from different parents and therefore you can experiment with the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. Our puppy friends need nutrition that is full of proteins and easy to digest. You can look for some ideas in the best puppy food brands. Senior dogs, in their grandpa style, need food which contains moderate protein levels as in the best senior dry dog food. Because of this, you need to spend ample time in a day to exercise and to walk this dog otherwise; it can develop destructive behavior. Play with your dog regularly to develop a strong bond with your pet. Remember that this dog will love to swim because of its Labrador Retriever lineage. A local dog pool or a pond would work great with your dog. If you have a large yard, an old, large vat will work great just for him to play and cool off. All dogs love to fetch and play Frisbee. Use other kinds of toys like large ropes so you can play pulling games. Use a giant ball for fetches like an old football or a tennis ball. Here are a few ideas 1. This is available in six sizes so you will surely find the best size for your medium to large-sized Lab German Shepherd mix. It is indestructible so your dog will undoubtedly spend hours playing with it. It is made from durable materials that will never break or chip. This is indestructible, and your dog will surely love to play with this over and over again. It is soft but is made to be indestructible. Your pet will surely love to chew on this soft bone. This will be his favorite toy in no time. Lab German Shepherd Mix Training The Lab crossed with a German Shepherd is a brilliant dog, but it may need more than simple traditional training techniques to train this dog. The following tricks will help you make your dog obey you in no time. The Clicker Technique Learn how to train your dog using a clicker. Press this, and you will hear an audible click, a sound that dog loves very much. The clicker may be used in all kinds of tricks, but the most common is for positive reinforcement. Just click the clicker when your dog can follow the trick and then click again if you want to repeat the behavior. Invest in a good clicker which is available in most pet stores online. This can contribute to obesity and other health problems related to being overweight. Reward good behavior by patting your dog, playing with him or giving him a good scratch. Tell your dog what a good dog he is and combines this with a lot of pats as reinforcement. Every dog takes his time so you must be patient. His bed should at the same place where he found it the first time while his food bowls should also be in the same area. Consistency is the key to training dogs important stuff. Also, consider talking to everyone at home regarding your rules and commands to reinforce consistency in training your dog. Train Your Dog In A Familiar Environment Dogs like the Lab are easily distracted; therefore you must train your pup in a quiet and familiar environment first before you take him out for further training. Start inside a quiet room with only you and him. You can train him outdoors once he is less distracted to noise and the presence of other pets and people. You may also opt for professional training for your Lab German Shepherd mix dog if you want your pup to grow up and become a service dog or police dog. German Shepherd Lab Mix and Families Lab German Shepherds can be great family dogs because these dogs love to be with their masters and to please them every way they can. These are patient with children and will never roughhouse or bite. They can even tolerate toddlers and very intense games like dress up and role play games. Lab German Shepherd mix dogs will love to be with other pets and even other dogs. They are not domineering and will never cause a fight. The Lab German Shepherd mix may become anti-social and may become aggressive with people or other dogs when they are not introduced to people and other pets early on. Your dog should be trained first and exposed to other dogs and people to prevent this untoward behavior. Blue Gray Some hybrids might be a solid color, or others can have a pattern like their German Shepherd parent. If they do have a pattern they will generally have a darker shade over their back and sides and the tips of their tail, ears, and muzzle, with a lighter shade everywhere else. Size The German Shepherd Lab mix does not have a breed standard for their full grown size. This means that although they are on average 60 to 90 pounds and 20 to 25 inches tall, they can fall either side of this range as well. When these pups are born they will weigh around 5 pounds, but will quickly grow to around 15 pounds by the time you bring them home at two months of age. Both parent breeds show a difference in sizes between males and females. You can expect a male German Shepherd Lab mix to weigh about 10 pounds more and be up to 5 inches taller than a female. By the age of 10 weeks there is usually already a noticeable size difference between pups from the same litter. Temperament and Personality The German Shepherd Lab mix is about as loving, protective and family-friendly as any dog. This sprightly, goofy and loving protector thrives when all the attention is on them! They love to play and enjoy being in the company of their family. Although goofy and energetic, they are gentle and loving with children. They are just as happy with cuddle and fuss as they are with a game of chase or frisbee. German Shepherd Lab mixes are friendly and gentle dogs who want to be friends with everyone. They are great with other dogs and people and fit well into most households with other pets. If the German Sheprador is bought up with cats or rabbits from puppyhood they tend to become good friends. However, their Labrador Retriever parent may give them a slight prey drive. This instinct means some pups want to chase animals smaller than them. This is especially true if these animals run away from them as they see it as a game. The German Shepherd Lab mix is an active dog who likes to have a job to do. Remember both parents are working breeds. Whatever it may be, they need something to keep their minds and bodies busy. This is especially true if they are left alone. They get easily bored and may turn to destructive behaviors such as chewing furniture if left without company for too long. Some German Shepherd Lab mixes can be talkative. This might be especially apparent when they get carried away when playing. They might also have a deeper, more intimidating German Shepherd bark when alerting to danger or strangers. These dogs are protective and have a guarding instinct, just like the German Shepherd Rottweiler mix. The Lab German Shepherd mix is likely to be cautious of new people and tends to err towards protectiveness. This dog is just about as goofy, loving, and protective as any dog could be! They vie for your attention in all sorts of wacky and energetic ways like throwing their toys around, bounding around, or pushing their heads onto your lap. German Shepherd Lab mixes are not just a blur of energy, they are affectionate and cuddly. Their ideal Sunday morning is lying in bed with you while lapping up snuggles and belly rubs, followed by a long walk in the sunshine with plenty of treats. They are gentle and kind-hearted, making them perfect to have with children of any age. The Lab Shepherd mix is tolerant of tail pulls and ear tugs so they get on well with young children. Who They Suit Best A German Shepherd Lab mix will fit well into a family household where they are going to get plenty of that attention that they crave! They are gentle and kind dogs who get on with children of all ages. They are friendly with other dogs and small pets so will easily fit into a multi-pet household too. These dogs are better suited to those families who are very active and have a big house and garden. They need plenty of playtime, exercise and space to burn off energy. All reliable breeders will offer this. A simple google search for German Shepradors in your state should bring up a whole list of potential breeders. In fact, one in four are prone to obesity as they have a gene that is strongly associated with weight gain, obesity and a strong appetite. There is a chance that your German Shepherd Lab mix might inherit this gene and have a veracious appetite. They will need to have a well-monitored and controlled diet. This includes not just their daily kibble, but treats and titbits as well. This mix needs a large breed kibble from when they are a young puppy. This will ensure they are getting enough nutrients to support their quick growth rate into the big dogs they will become. Once fully grown they should be getting around three cups of kibble a day, spaced out across two meals. Some of this kibble can also be used as treats throughout the day and on walks. It is better to use kibble as treats, rather than using high calorie treats, as this will help keep the weight off. Training These dogs are very intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement dog training. They are easily trained as they love to please and enjoy training as it means they are the center of attention. Their Lab genes means they will do almost anything for a treat. Training this mixed breed is something even the novice dog-owner can do. Exercise The German Shepherd Lab mix is full of energy as it has working-breed parents. These hybrids need at least one hour of exercise a day. Make sure their walks involve a strenuous activity such as hiking, running or swimming. These dogs are known to love agility, although their large size and goofy nature can make them clumsy. Health German Shepherd Lab mixes live for between 10 and 12 years, however they are prone to two serious health issues. Both parents are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, so this Lab Shepherd mix is at risk too. This means they are assessed for their risk of hip and elbow dysplasia. Choose a breeder that uses this technique to be sure the risk of hip and elbow dysplasia in your puppy is reduced. These dogs are also at risk of bloat gastric dilatation volvulus which is an illness inherited from both parents. Finally, they are prone to weight gain and obesity like their Labrador parent. This coat is designed to keep them cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It is equally perfect for playing in the snow or in the sand. However, this type of coat sheds heavily all year round. The German Shepherd Lab mix needs weekly grooming for up to an hour. It is best to use a slicker brush to help them shed and prevent any matting or knots. When brushing, focus especially on the armpits and under-belly, as these are the places mats most commonly form. These pups only need grooming for 30 minutes once a week with a soft bristled brush. This will help to keep their coat shiny and in tip-top condition. German Shepherd Lab mixes tend to be larger than a Labrador. They are more similar to the size of their German Shepherd parent. Fully grown they can weigh as much as 90 pounds and be 26 inches tall. The average is 75 pounds and 23 inches. Males will be larger than females by as much as 10 pounds and 5 inches. German Shepherds and Labradors are highly intelligent working dogs. They are known for their varied jobs, from guard dogs, herding dogs and police dogs to guide dogs and therapy dogs. It should be no surprise that the German Shepherd Lab mix is a clever dog! They know exactly what you want and can solve puzzles and games easily. However, sometimes you might find yourself questioning their smarts… in their desperate attempts for attention they can be extremely goofy and clumsy! In their home a German Shepherd Lab mix is goofy, playful, cuddly and affectionate. However they are protective of their families and have a strong guarding instinct. If their human is wary of a stranger you can expect a few barks. If their human greets a stranger with ease they will make friends. Although most commonly known as the German Shepherd Lab mix, they are also sometimes called Labrashepherds or Alsatian Lab mixes. German Shepherd Lab mixes weigh up to 90 pounds and grow to 26 inches tall, but the average is 75 pounds and 23 inches. These hybrids live for attention and will do a wide range of goofy and wacky thing to earn the approval of their owners. They are loving, protective, gentle and kind-natured. These traits make them the perfect family pet for households with children of any age and other pets. They are also eager to please and intelligent, so are very responsive to positive reinforcement dog training, especially if they are going to earn a treat. It is perfect for keeping them warm in winter and cool in summer. However, you might just find it all over the house as they shed all year round. They will need weekly grooming to keep their coat under control. The German Shepherd Lab mix is about as loving, protective and family-friendly as any dog. Do you think this mix would fit right into your family? More Labrador Mixes.

We strive to produce dogs with correct breed conformation, sound genetics, and an amazing temperament. Our dogs have their OFA Orthopedic Foundation for Animals hips, elbows, heart and eye clearances as well as a DNA panel specific to genetic diseases prevalent to our breed. Our Retrievers are not only perfect indoor companions, but love to be out in the show ring, retrieving on land and dock diving. Deciding to bring a dog into your home is a big and life changing decision! We look forward to talking with you about our wonderful breed and guiding you through life with a golden! Join The Family What Others Say We absolutely love staying in touch with our families and following along as our babies grow. Here are some words from our families! I found adventuresoftrinitypups on instagram and every day I looked forward to watching the videos and pictures of the most beautiful looking and well-behaved Golden Retrievers I have ever seen! After watching them for almost a year I decided to message the person behind the account to inquire about finally adopting my own Golden Retriever because my heart was set on wanting one from Trinity Retrievers! My husband and I drove all the way to South Carolina from New York to pick up the cutest little golden ever, whom we named Toby. The rest is history! He is the best and most well-behaved Golden Retriever, and we are constantly receiving compliments about Toby's temperament and appearance whenever we are in public because he is a perfectly bred Golden Retriever. He has even traveled with us on a handful of vacations! It was well worth the drive and I would only recommend her, and already have in the past, to anyone interested in adding a Golden Retriever to their family! We also hope to get Toby a sibling sometime soon and have kept in touch with Kristin so without a doubt will be getting one from Trinity Retrievers to add to our family! Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for South Carolina Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in South Carolina? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in South Carolina? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Welcome to Carolina Gilded Retrievers! We are a family-owned and operated breeder of American Kennel Club-registered golden retrievers. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Travelers Rest, SC, our state of the art kennel is situated on a 6 acre plot of land with plenty of room for our puppies to grow and develop. At Carolina Gilded Retrievers we believe that a hands-on approach to our dogs and puppies is key, and as such we built our kennel just a stone's throw away from our own house. Our dogs are our pets first and foremost. They are treated as family members and it is important that each of them receive their dedicated time with us, go on adventures, car rides, and trips. We enjoy finding each dog's desired activity whether that be agility, therapy work, or hunting. Our Values What We Breed For At Carolina Gilded Retrievers we breed our puppies for three main criteria: health, demeanor, and structure beauty , making them ideal for companionship, therapy, and service. The naturally loving temperament of the golden retriever breed is further magnified in our puppies by the hands-on love, care, and attention they are given from day one. For the first three weeks of their life they are under hour supervision. Females are all assisted during their delivery, and carefully watched prior to their delivery date. Beginning at 3 days of age, we begin our puppy curriculum which lasts until take home day. We believe it is important to set our puppies and families up for success from the beginning. Beginning at 3 days of age and continuing until 16 days of age, we engage our puppies in Early Neurological Stimulation exercises. We follow the Empowered Breeder puppy curriculum which begins at 3 weeks of age, as well as, the potty training process. From week we begin to have various novelty and exposure activities in the whelping pen. From weeks , the puppies have their own dedicated "puppy bowl" room and astro turf play area, where we offer the puppies a wide variety of exposure activities, objects and textures. Think wagon and stroller rides, to ball pit and tunnel fun, to a variety of toys that are different shapes and sizes. In addition, we begin sound desensitizing and the puppies are exposed to a wide variety of sounds such as fireworks, train noises, clapping etc. At 7 weeks of age we perform the Volhard Aptitude test. Our Commitment To You Carolina Gilded Retrievers is committed first and foremost to the health and well-being of our dogs and puppies, but we also take great joy in helping our clients find the perfect puppy for their needs. We go above and beyond for our puppies and their new families at every turn. Our extended puppy family is ever-expanding, and for us this business is a genuine labor of love. Share 0 Shares The Golden Retriever is a great companion for many active individuals out there, and they also tend to behave very well around children and other pets. This also makes the Golden Retriever a popular choice for many families. However, it is still always important that prospective Golden Retriever breeders do their research about the breeder before they bring a Golden Retriever puppy home. Looking up some basic facts about the Golden Retriever before obtaining one is always a good idea. There are some other things such as what gender and coat color you would like your Golden Retriever puppy to have. However, the most important thing to consider when getting a Golden Retriever puppy is whether or not a breeder is reputable. Here we have compiled a list of some of our favorite Golden Retriever breeders that are perfect for those who are looking for Golden Retriever puppies in South Carolina. Of course, it is still important that you look into these breeders yourself in order to ensure that they will make a good fit for you and your family. Trinity Golden Retrievers Trinity Golden Retrievers South Carolina These Golden Retriever breeders are dedicated to bettering the Golden Retriever breed by carefully breeding their dogs to ensure that they have great temperaments and genetic health. In order to prove their lines this breeder enters their dogs into AKC-run conformation events. All of their dogs also come from established pedigrees, many of them being championship-winning. Additionally, this breeder also gets their dogs OFA health testing for the hips, elbows, eyes, and heart as is recommended for the Golden Retriever breed. Many of their dogs have also received genetic testing for the conditions that can affect Golden Retrievers. This prevents harmful genetic conditions from being passed onto their puppies. Puppies are also kept in good health with up-to-date vaccinations, deworming, and vet visits. Name of Owner.

As newborns they are deaf, bind, and largely immobile. They rely on their mom, or their breeder for food, warmth, and care. A Pug is Born! Unfortunately, the birthing process of Pugs is a difficult one. Flat-faced breeds, such as the Pug, are more likely to experience complications when giving birth. The Pug is also more likely to experience Dystocia, which is simply a term that means difficult or abnormal birth. Such situations put both the mother and her pups at risk. More often than not, the mother will require her pups to be delivered by a C-section. This is due to the fact that unborn Pugs have large and broad heads, whilst their mom has a very narrow pelvis. This awkward combination makes natural birth difficult. If the birth is successful, Pugs commonly have litters containing puppies, with 4 pups being the average. If your baby Pug is born naturally, their mother will next turn to chewing off the umbilical cord and cleaning them up. This is an important part of the bonding experience for mother dogs. The newborn Pugs will often nurse from their mother. When they are not nursing, they will spend the majority of their time sleeping. Newborn Pugs Pug pups begin their life fully reliant on their mother. They are born blind, deaf, and without teeth. A coat should be present, with the color being commonly either fawn or black. Fawn pups may experience their coat color lightening or darkening in shade as they mature. Their eyes and ears will be closed at birth and will remain this way for a while yet. Unable to support their own body weight, they will crawl on their stomach to get around. Baby Pugs are also not able to regulate their temperature, meaning that it is very important to stay warm. They will commonly clump together in piles, sharing body heat. Finally, the mother will also have to help her pups urinate and defecate as they are unable to do so by themselves. She does this by licking the anal and genital areas. One Week Old Baby Pug During the first week of life, baby Pug pups will either be nursing off their mother or sleeping. As they are still blind and deaf at this stage, they will not bother exploring or moving around more than necessary, spending most of their time lying close to their littermates and mother. Their weight should steadily increase every day. At the end of their first week of life, they should have doubled their birth weight, or at least come close. The owners of the pups will need to keep an eye on their breathing as brachycephalic breeds, such as the Pug, commonly have breathing issues. Two Week Old Baby Pug As we hit two weeks of age, we see a key development in the puppies growth; their eyes will open for the very first time! To begin with, their eye color will be blue, but will likely transition into a dark brown as they mature. Owners need to check over their eyes to ensure there are no issues, as this breed can be susceptible to ocular problems. At this stage, they may be a little more curious about their surroundings due to their newfound eyesight. However, they will still primarily be focused on sleeping and nursing. Their weight should continue to rise steadily over the coming weeks. By this time, the ears of the baby Pug pups will have opened. They will be able to hear for the first time and will begin reacting to more sounds. Their eyesight will also have developed significantly, with them being able to recognize their mother, littermates, and objects placed in their den. Along with their newfound perception of the world, they should now be able to support their own body weight and stand up. They may be able to walk, albeit with an unsteady gait. With all the interesting sights and sounds around them, they will likely be a lot more inquisitive of their surroundings. They may explore the den as much as their wobbly legs will carry them. The Pug puppies will also start teething, with their baby teeth coming through for the first time. This may start a passing interest in solid food. Gaining Independence On top of all this, they should now be able to urinate and defecate on their own, without any stimulation from their mother. We can also expect to see the start of the early socialization period. The puppies will begin developing behaviors and social skills for the first time, taking part in play with their littermates. Owners of the puppies should take advantage of this period to help them get used to human touch and presence. They will be establishing relationships with their mother, den mates, and people. Training can begin at this early stage. Despite the fact that their brains still have a lot of developing to do, a start can still be made on teaching them basic crate and potty training. They will also likely be much more mobile on their feet. Little adventures will be common and the puppies will play together often. Soft, easy to eat puppy food can be given. They will continue to rise in weight and keep learning social skills, with more complex behaviors being shown. While they seem a lot more independent at this stage, they will still require plenty of time with their mother and den mates before they are ready to be moved to a new home. Six Week Old Baby Pug At six weeks old, the Pug puppies are fast approaching the age where they reach full independence. By now, they should be fully weaned off their mother and placed onto solid food only. This is a big step. There is still much to learn. Up until now, the Pug puppies have been very curious and interested in completely new things. But they have always been safe under the watchful eye of their mom, too. Now, as they finally gain independence, the puppies learn to be cautious and careful; traits that keep them alive in the wild. Eight Week Old Baby Pug At eight weeks old, the Pug pups are developed enough to be able to leave their mother and littermates behind. They can be sold and moved into a new loving home. They should weigh around pounds. Training and Raising a Pug Resources Keep in mind that they still have a lot of developing to do; both physically and mentally! Remember, they are still within their fear period! Things learned here will make a big impact. Still, Thinking of Buying a Pug? The birthing process Sadly, baby pug births are renowned for their complications. Like many other brachycephalic dogs, pugs are prone to difficult births. This is often referred to as Dystocia. Natural birth is difficult. For this reason, the number of newborn baby pugs born by cesarean section is greater than average. Make sure mum is eating a healthy diet and getting plenty of exercises Visit your veterinarian for a six-week ultrasound, pelvic exam, and blood sugar testing Put together a cosey whelping box in a quiet and comfortable location. A cardboard box with a thick layer of newspaper will suffice Be ready with everything you need for the birth- clean towels, scissors, rubbing alcohol, and heating pads are a great start As the birth approaches, mamma pug will start acting a bit differently. Look out for nesting behaviors and change in appetite. Heavy panting, straining, and whimpering are signs that birth is imminent. If your dog shows any of these signs you will require professional assistance and must call your vet immediately. Most litters consist of between one and eight puppies in total. Puppies come out head-first in the amniotic sac. This is a natural and healthy behavior. You can cut the cord with a sterilized thread or apply some rubbing alcohol to a pair of scissors. When the puppies start to cry this is a great sign. Clean them off gently with a soft towel and encourage them to start nursing from their mamma. Newborn pups will need a lot of sleep. So be patient. Newborn Pugs: The Early Days Image source: Pinterest Remember that newborn baby pugs are born deaf, blind, toothless, and relatively immobile. These tiny creatures are entirely dependent on others during their early life. Mum will help them go to the bathroom and they will need help staying warm and well-nourished. This will take some time. Your puppies will crawl at first. This is completely normal. Newborn pugs cannot support their body weight yet. With time their mobility will improve. Something to consider- pugs are prone to respiratory difficulties, so look out for breathing problems early on. Even after a week, newborn pug puppies are blind and deaf. With their limited mobility, they are most likely to stay close to the litter. Things to monitor include weight and breathing. You should expect to notice a gradual increase in weight. Most baby pug puppies will double their birth weight after one week. Remember to keep checking their breathing, even as they start to mature. This is always a special moment. Step by step, your pups will gradually start exploring. There will still be a lot of sleeping involved. This is normal. Pug puppies start their lives with blue eyes but as they get older their eye coloration changes. Once maturity is reached, most pups will have dark brown eyes. They can now support their weight and move around. This means your bundles of joy will start to come into their own. Your puppies can now hear, urinate, and defecate independently. As they grow in confidence, they will become fascinated by their new senses and surroundings. Look out for their reactions as they discover the world for the first time. At three weeks, eyesight is developing quickly. Three-week-old baby pug puppies can recognize their mother, siblings, and immediate surroundings. This is a social time and the perfect opportunity to get your pups used to human touch. But always be gentle and go slowly. Your pups will start to develop social skills and become more playful. Enjoy watching them interact with their littermates and get up to lots of mischiefs. The three-week mark is also teething time. This is when your puppies will be learning about their world. Enjoy watching your litter play and tumble. Prioritize socializing at this time and begin some basic training exercises. Glorious Food. Expect Hungry Pups by Week 5 Week five is for progress. Weaning is a slow and steady process. Let your pup experiment with solid foods and gradually reduce their milk consumption. This is a delicate developmental milestone for young dogs. They will need to stay with their litter a while longer before looking for a forever home. Nearly There. Pug Pups at 6 Weeks By 6 weeks, it can seem that your pups are seasoned professionals at, well, being a dog. Give them time to find their feet. Baby Pugs: Expect a Confidence Wobble in Week 7 After seven weeks, your pups will have gotten used to being more independent. At this stage, you must be cautious with even the most confident of puppies. Pushing a young pup too far, too soon is a recipe for disaster. If your pup seems to have lost some confidence, try using counter-conditioning to get them back on track. Here are my 5 top tips for healthy, happy pups: 1. Your pups will need vaccinations and health check-ups throughout their life. Start training early but gradually for happy pups and happy owners. Portion food according to food type and age. Remember that pugs are prone to obesity so resist those wide-eyed looks and keep treats to a minimum. FAQs 1. Where can I get a baby pug? You can source your baby pug pup from one of several locations. One option is to visit a certified breeder. Make sure that they are reputable and ensure you take a visit before picking up your pup, to check out the breeding conditions. Another way to source your pup is through a pet shop. Buying a puppy from a pet shop. Ask lots of questions and make the most of their expertise. With so many dogs out there needing homes, rehoming an abandoned or homeless animal, pug or not, is a truly amazing thing to do. How much does it cost to get a baby pug? Depending on where you live and how you choose to source your puppy, prices will vary. Take a look at this pricing roundup for clearer international price points. Pugs can make healthy, happy, friendly companions. Check out the video below for Pug puppies from the first day to day 33!

Puppy pads if you adopt a puppy Best Tips To Get Approved for Adoption Reputable rescues will want to do a home visit before they consider you for adoption. Be detailed, accurate, and ready to answer even more questions. You can always check the web for rescue shelters in and close to your state. Tips for First-Time Pet Owners The best way to prepare for your new pet is to do all of the above: get your house ready before your pet arrives. But if you want to know other perks—adopting a rescue is cheaper than getting a dog from a breeder. Conclusion I hope you enjoyed this list of seven rescues in Florida. They give you plenty of options to find the perfect lab to adopt. Please share this article with other dog lovers if you liked it. Leave your thoughts in the comments—we love to hear from our readers! Meet our writer Jen Clifford is an animal behaviorist and veterinary technician with more than a decade of hands-on experience working in small animal and specialty veterinary clinics. We also have two cats so we need a cat friendly dog. The greyhound has bonded with our chocolate so I think we should look for a year old large dog. I am trying to start the information process now as the grey is four years old but, all three other dogs are over years old. Thank you for your help. Especially large breed dogs. Well, this Labrador rescue is exceptionally well respected in the rescue community. They do such a great job of pulling dogs, fostering and rehoming. This rescue is run completely professionally and should be a beacon for other rescues to model best practices by. We have rescued two dogs now from them a yellow lab named Mobi and a black lab named Jimmy they work very hard to make sure that these dogs go to a wonderful home. Jimmy needed some veterinary care and the Lab Rescue took care of everything which was amazing. I highly recommend them to anyone. Got her a 5 months old, and aside from being a little skiddish , a perfect lady. Thanks to Lab Rescue for doing a wonderful job. The people are amazing. Everyone is a volunteer. They save so many beautiful dogs, that otherwise would be destroyed. Sad part is I adopted a lab from this organization over 10 yrs ago and that lab was with my current unaltered lab with no issues at all. It would be appreciated prior to an adoption fee a criteria is provided so that you are better informed in order to apply for an adoption or not. Oh well I guess I can just buy a lab or puppy and start all over again if that is the case. After a few year of my significant other asking to get a dog I finally agreed. His family had adopted a chocolate lab from them back in maggie so I knew this group was going to be able to help us. We put in an application and paid our donation to the group. Within a hour I received a message that I would be getting a call from a counselor who could help me meet up with people who are fostering dogs. This gentleman was main contact. We went over our desires in a future new family member together and he gave us a lovely lady's phone number who happened to be fostering Lola. We talked to her for about an hour she told us to take the night and to think about whether or not we wanted to meet her. I think we took all of 30 minutes before I messaged her and said we would like to meet the pup and when could we meet up? We ended up meeting Lola at her foster house. Before we even got home we both knew she was going to be a part of our family forever. She has exceeded our expectations for a loving new companion. And a wonderful woman that was fostering her has become a new family friend, we share pictures of Lola with her and she shows us her new foster puppies and she's also a wonderful contact when I have questions and concerns. Due to covered being an issue this year most of our family is staying out of town and not able to come home,we donated in their names to this organization and purchased calendars for them as part of their gift for Christmas. The staff has been wonderful working with me making sure everything is sent and the right names are on the right donations. We're proud to have recently found new homes for the these lovable labs. Loading labs.Labs4rescue is proud to be associated with the following organizations Combined Federal Campaign CFC is the world's largest and most successful annual workplace charity campaign, raising millions of dollars each year. To support Labs4rescue, click here and enter our Charity .Animal Charities of America Animal Charities of America ACA is a federation of America's finest national organizations working to protect and enhance the lives of all animals whether farm, domesticated or wild. America's Best Charities Each charity on their site has been carefully screened to ensure every charity listed is a qualified non-profit, provides ongoing program services, and is financially accountable. Mayor's Alliance for NYC's Animals Committed to seeing the day when no New York City dog or cat of reasonable health and temperament is killed merely because he or she does not have a home. About Us Labs4Rescue is a volunteer, c 3 non-profit organization dedicated to providing a new life for rescued or displaced Labrador Retrievers and Labrador Mixes. Our goal is to promote and advance responsible pet ownership. Useful Links.

Our extensive collection features hundreds of stunning photos of these adorable canines in various poses, settings, and backgrounds. Type of Images Available Our collection of German Shepherd puppy images features a variety of different types of photos, including portraits, candid shots, outdoor and indoor images, and more. From close-ups of their expressive faces to action shots of them running and playing, our images capture the energy and character of this amazing breed. Our images can be used for a multitude of purposes, including websites, blog posts, advertisements, social media, books, magazines, and more. Whether you're sharing photos of your own German Shepherd puppy or you need images for a commercial project, our collection is a great resource. Tips for Choosing the Right Image Choosing the right image can make all the difference when it comes to creating a compelling design or message. Here are some tips for selecting the perfect image: Consider the mood you want to convey Think about the context in which the image will be used Look for images with high resolution and clarity Take into account the color scheme of your project and select images that complement it Choose images that have a clear focal point and aren't cluttered Why Choose Our Images? Our collection of German Shepherd puppy images offers a unique combination of quality, variety, and affordability. We pride ourselves in providing images that are visually stunning while still being accessible to a wide range of individuals and businesses. Plus, we offer flexible licensing options, including Royalty-free and Extended licenses, to fit your specific needs. With our images, you can create compelling projects that capture the essence of this beloved breed, no matter what your design or marketing goals may be. So why wait? Browse our collection today to discover the perfect German Shepherd puppy image for your next project! Their calm, confident demeanor paired with their recognizable looks makes them wonderful family pets and undeniably cool sidekicks. One even lives in The White House , so you know they're a big deal. Whether you're celebrating National German Shepherd Day May 10 or just need a pick-me-up with some smiling pups , you've come to the right place! Luna the Longhaired German Shepherd Luna's long mane looks absolutely stunning against the rocks. Plus, with a smile like that, this pup can steal anyone's heart. Who doesn't want to be lounging by the pool with a cup of coffee and getting some online shopping, er, work done? Just look at her stunning black coat and long tongue! Duke Enjoying a Pupsicle This German shepherd knows how to do summer right with a delicious homemade dog popsicle. Save some for us! Krut the Adventure Doggo What's more relaxing than hiking with your dog next to a beautiful waterfall? Krut's Instagram page is full of gorgeous pictures of his mountain adventures that have us itching for a weekend camping trip. Cliff's Boop-able Nose Now this is a snoot we need to boop! Cliff's Instagram always shows the smiling pup on tons of outdoor adventures. No wonder he's one of the happiest German shepherds we've ever seen! Koa's Beach Day This has everything you need in a cute German shepherd picture: a gorgeous background, floppy ears, and an adorably fluffy puppy with her tongue out. What more can you ask for? After only a few short minutes of brushing , it's like you have enough fur for a whole new dog! German shepherds have thick, double layered coats that are prone to shedding , so it's even more important for their owners to keep a regular grooming routine. You may just need to book an afternoon for the task. Sebastian the Birthday Boy Time to light the candles! Sebastian's first birthday bash included a matching bandana , banner, and birthday hat, as well as some adorable custom cookies. All he needs left for his big day is a dog-approved birthday cake. Flash's Floppy Ears German shepherds are known for their signature perked-up ears. But in their first few months, German shepherd puppies sport floppy ears until around the time they finish teething. So German shepherd puppy owners: take all the photos with those adorable floppy ears while you still can! But Odin here is clearly proud to be a German shepherd K.And based on his Instagram posts, this good boy gets the job done right. These good boys are clearly enjoying their day outside at the park and we couldn't be happier for them. Ace the German Shepherd Service Dog German shepherds are incredibly smart, making them wonderful service animals! When your job includes going to Disney, how could you not look as happy as this guy? Apollo Soaking up the Sun Apollo might be the coolest dog we've ever seen. From the effortlessly stylish sunglasses all the way down to his customized shoes, we know this good boy is living his best life. Was this page helpful? These pups are incredibly intelligent and capable canines who are ready to work. And German Shepherd puppies are too cute! Remember, you can get any kind of dog, including a GSD, from shelters and rescues, so always adopt! They tend to be one-family pets, meaning they can be suspicious of strangers. Although absolutely gorgeous, Shepherds are shedders to the max. Prepare for a snow globe of hair to poof off your pup any time you give them a big snuggle, which will be more often than not. When you first get your puppy, playing may consist of nipping due to their herding background. When your GSD is fully grown, they may love to wrestle around and forget how big they are. These pups are always up for snuggling with others, including kids and other pets. Softies Who Are Also Busy Bodies If you want a German Shepherd puppy in your life, you have to really want your dog to be a part of every little bit of your daily routine. Morning showers? Your pup will want to sit right outside to make sure you rinse off the soap. Your bed? Highly intelligent and curious, Shepherds want to know what is going on all of the time. German Shepherds will attach at the hip and make the right person the happiest dog parent on the planet. German Shepherd puppy in grass close-up of German Shepherd puppy German Shepherd puppy in profile German Shepherd puppy on rock German Shepherd puppy lying down on lawn German Shepherd puppy looking at camera German Shepherd puppy on snow German Shepherd puppy in yard Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue. Would you adopt a German Shepherd Puppy? Do you have experience with these adorable pups? Let us know in the comments below! He is 7 months old and weighed 85lbs in this picture. He is a German Shepherd. Crixus is the best dog I have ever had. I can't believe how smart he is. Sadly, she passed away shortly after this photo was taken at the age of 8 years. He is a 3-year-old male German Shepherd. The dog on the right is Elsa. She is also a purebred German Shepherd, but due to her coat type her ears were too heavy and just would not stay up. They love to have their picture taken. To make a long story short, the end result was that he had a very large nearly cantalope size splenic tumor which ruptured ultimatley causing his untimely passing. He was playing and being his usual self at 8 in the morning and not even 12 hours later, he took his last breath. This came from our vet. As soon as Ace began to mope around we called our vet right away. They told us to bring him in right then, which we did and they got right down to business. He weighed his usual 90 pounds and had no hight temperature, but was breathing hard and would not move. Our vet examined him and said he was in a very grave state. His gums and tongue were fading in color so much so that she called the emergency vet and alerted them to our impending arrival. We took him there and they too, were on the ball. They did an ultrasound and it confirmed our vet's suspicions. He passed away before the ultrasound was even complete. These tumors grow very rapidly and 9 times out of 10 they are cancerous. We never had the first clue. Our hearts are broken, and we miss him terribly, but if this at least helps raise awareness, then our Ace's loss was not all in vain. We believe that even the most simple things can be made to be enjoyable and unforgettable. German Shepherds are great family dogs or dogs for a couple like us. After a few years of training with Sequoia, we found the most valuable lessons from our in-person and online dog trainer Zack Kiser from American Dog Pros. American Dog Pros is based in California and specializes in obedience training and competitive shows for dogs. Sequoia was the cutest, most tiny little girl when we rescued her at 8 weeks old. She was the cutest German Shepherd Puppy! Can German Shepherds Swim? German Shepherds love to swim, especially our girl Sequoia! Put a life jacket on your German Shepherd for their first few times swimming to help build their confidence. German Shepherds are prone to eye conditions like Pannus which can be negatively impacted by UV sun rays. Dog sunglasses and dog goggles like Rex Specs are helpful tools to combat the UV. We also love using Rex Specs dog sunglasses when hiking in the snow to avoid the bright white glare in her eyes. Another bonus is that you have extra peace of mind when your dog is playing fetch with sticks or running through bushes and brush. German Shepherd Shedding German Shepherd shedding is a concern for a lot of dog owners. From our experience, German Shepherds shed a lot — especially if they are long-haired German Shepherds. Female Names for German Shepherds Sequoia.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. What to Feed German Shepherd Puppies: A Healthy Feeding Guide One of the first things you need to know about what to feed German Shepherd puppies is, right from the start, to choose a high-quality puppy-specific food for large breed puppies. What to feed German Shepherd puppies—feed German Shepherd puppies a diet that is: Specifically created for large-breed puppies. What do German Shepherd puppies eat? New owners are given a host of choices when bringing home their new pups. You can choose to offer one or the other, or even opt for mixed feeding. Dry Kibble Kibble is the most popular and economical choice for German Shepherd puppies. Plus, the major manufacturers offer a complete and balanced diet in many different flavors, with or without grains, and even limited ingredient diets. Kibble can be moistened either with water or broth. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of kibble when it comes to feeding German Shepherd puppies: Advantages Easy to purchase at most stores and online. Keeps for longer than other food options. Quick and simple to serve with little clean up. Disadvantages Can be difficult for some puppies to chew, causing them to not eat enough. Wet Food Here are some advantages and disadvantages of feeding German Shepherd puppies wet food : Advantages Softer and potentially more palatable for picky eaters. Contains more water content than dry food, which can help keep your puppy hydrated. Can leave dogs feeling fuller for longer due to the water content. Can be more expensive than kibble in the long run. Requires more preparation time. Mixing Dry Kibble and Wet Foods Feeding our German Shepherd puppies is no easy task, and deciding between wet and dry puppy food can leave us scratching our heads. But what if we told you there was a middle ground? Mixing wet and dry puppy foods can be an option worth considering, but it comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Wet food contributes to increased water intake, ensuring your furry friend stays well-hydrated. Allows you to provide a diverse array of nutrients, contributing to a balanced diet for your growing German Shepherd. Disadvantages Might make it trickier to regulate portion sizes accurately, potentially leading to overfeeding and weight issues. These diets exclude foods that have been cooked or processed in any way. There are also some advantages and disadvantages to feeding a German Shepherd puppy a raw food diet: Advantages Raw diets consist of uncooked, fresh ingredients that retain their natural nutrients, potentially promoting better health for your puppy. Some puppies with food sensitivities might find relief on a raw diet as it eliminates common allergens found in processed foods. Disadvantages Preparing a balanced raw diet requires careful planning to ensure your pup gets all the necessary nutrients in the right proportions. Raw diets carry a higher risk of bacterial contamination, potentially affecting both your pup and you. Sourcing high-quality ingredients and properly storing them can be costly and time-consuming. Homemade Diets For large breed puppies, like German Shepherds, homemade diets must be carefully formulated, just like commercial foods. To create a homemade diet recipe specifically for your dog, it is preferable to consult a veterinarian who holds a board certification in veterinary nutrition. Unfortunately, research has shown that many well-intentioned dog owners still overfeed or give their dogs an unbalanced diet, which can be harmful. By cooking at home, you can skip additives and preservatives often found in commercial dog food. Disadvantages Without proper knowledge and planning, homemade meals may lack essential nutrients, leading to nutritional imbalances. Preparing homemade food demands time and effort, which might be challenging for busy pet parents. Mishandling raw ingredients can lead to contamination, causing health issues for your puppy. Remember, these charts help provide a guideline, but each dog is an individual. For example, if your dog has had a busy day of training and playing, they may need a few extra calories for dinner. This helps ensure they are growing as expected, and if not, you may need to alter the recommended feeding amount. As a rule of thumb, most German Shepherd puppies will eat as follows in this chart: Age. Just a few months ago, your little ball of fluff was tumbling around, getting into mischief. This article will help you determine when to switch your puppy to adult dog food, how puppy and adult dog foods differ , how to select the best adult dog food, and how to transition foods smoothly to ensure that your pup is set up for a life of good health. According to AAFCO, puppy foods should be higher in protein, fat, calcium, and phosphorous than adult dog foods. These macronutrients and minerals help support lean muscle and bone growth. They also provide enough caloric density to enable the puppy to grow and perform basic bodily functions such as breathing, digestion, and movement. Many puppy food manufacturers also include higher amounts of compounds like omega-3 fatty acids to support proper brain and eye development as your puppy ages. Large-breed puppies need specially formulated puppy foods that contain less fat , calcium, and phosphorous to moderate their rate of growth. This helps prevent skeletal diseases such as elbow and hip dysplasia that can result from growing too quickly. You need to ensure that your puppy has the extra protein, fat, and minerals they need to support their growth and development and prevent various bone, joint, brain, and eye disorders. But aside from breed size, you also need to consider whether they are spayed or neutered or if they are a highly active dog that needs more calories. Breed Size Because of their faster growth rate, smaller breeds such as Chihuahuas , Yorkshire Terriers , and Pugs reach adult size sooner than larger breeds such as Golden Retrievers , German Shepherds, and Dalmatians. The guidelines below will help you to determine when to start feeding adult dog food: Small breeds under 25 pounds when fully grown reach adult size at months of age. These breeds will be ready for adult dog food at months of age. Medium-sized breeds such as English Springer Spaniels , Australian Shepherds , and Border Collies are pounds when fully grown, and they reach adult size at months of age. With growth rates between those of small breeds and large breeds, medium-sized dogs will be ready for adult dog food around months of age. Large breeds are over 50 pounds when fully grown. There are many large breed dogs, from the Boxer to the Great Dane , so the point at which these breeds reach mature size and weight can vary between 15 and 24 months of age. With the wide range of breeds under this category and a generally slower rate of growth, these dogs will need to stay on puppy food until they are months old to ensure they have enough protein and other nutrients during this stage. They also need to get those nutrients in the proper ratio to support the growth and proper development of their larger skeletons. Activity Level Athletic dogs may benefit from staying on puppy formulas longer, as the extra protein supports lean muscle growth and function, and the extra fat and higher caloric density can allow energy for high-intensity activities. Spaying or Neutering Breed size is not the only factor when determining when to transition your puppy to adult dog food. Because puppy foods contain a higher calorie density, feeding the correct amount during the remaining months of puppyhood is very important to prevent obesity as the puppy matures into an adult. Spaying or neutering does not usually slow the growth rate of your puppy, but it may affect the growth plates in the bones of large breed puppies, setting them up for joint problems later in life. In addition, unspayed female dogs who will be bred early in life may need to stay on puppy food longer to support gestation and lactation following whelping. Switching Too Early or Too Late Because the timing of switching your puppy to adult dog food is so important, there can be negative consequences from both switching too late and switching too early. Dogs that are taken off puppy food too late may be more predisposed to obesity and associated health problems later in life, given the fact that puppy formulas have more fat and calories per cup than adult dog formulas. The extra protein and calories in puppy foods can also increase the rate of growth in certain dog breeds if they are not fed a breed-specific puppy food formula. If these breeds are left on puppy formulas too long, they can be more predisposed to developing joint problems in the future. Similarly, if your puppy is taken off a puppy formula too early, they may suffer from nutritional deficiencies and growth abnormalities, failing to reach adult size around the expected time and increasing their risk of future bone, joint, brain, and eye issues. How to Pick the Right Adult Dog Food When it is time for your puppy to transition to adult dog food, how should you go about selecting the best adult formula for them as they become young adults? The young adult stage is typically considered years of age, as middle age starts by year in many dog breeds. While most dogs are generally quite healthy during this stage in their lives, feeding them appropriately during their young adult years can help lower the risk of obesity, arthritis , and dental disease as they age. Choosing a Brand The many adult dog food companies are not all equal in terms of quality. Dry Food vs. Wet Food The next step is to decide whether you would like to feed your dog dry food, wet food, or a mixture of the two. Both types of food have positive and negative aspects, and the choice to use one, the other, or both depends on the specific needs of your dog. For example, wet food: Has a higher moisture content than dry food and may be better for dogs that do not drink much water. Has a lower calorie density per volume than dry dog food, allowing dogs to feel fuller on fewer calories, which helps control their weight throughout their lives. Is often more palatable and appetizing than dry food, so it may be a great option for picky eaters or for stimulating the appetite of dogs that are less interested in food. Can be beneficial for dogs with oral abnormalities or dental disease, as it is easier for them to chew. By contrast, dry food: Can be a more economical option than wet food. Is a great option for easier portion control and for dogs that tend to graze throughout the day rather than consume a full meal in one sitting, as dry food will not spoil as rapidly if left out for long periods of time. Is beneficial for dental health, as the crunchy pieces act as an abrasive against the teeth during chewing and help prevent tartar buildup and thus tooth and gum disease. Can be easily used as a tool in puzzle toys for enrichment and mental stimulation. Is be used in slow feeders for reducing the rate at which dogs are able to consume their meals. When your pup eats more slowly, the risk is lower of them swallowing too much air and developing bloat, a potentially dangerous condition. Nutritional Requirements The final step in selecting the best adult dog food diet is to examine the Guaranteed Analysis panel on the bag or can of food and ensure that the formula meets a few major nutritional requirements. Other formulas have glucosamine for joint health or probiotics for gut health. Some dogs are sensitive to chicken and do better on beef- or salmon-based formulas. If you are unsure of the additional needs for your dog outside of the key ingredients and nutrients listed above, consult with your veterinarian. This will help ensure gut regularity with less physical activity. Remember that dog treats and other sources of calories in the diet need to be included when determining the appropriate amount of food for your young adult dog. How to Switch Your Puppy to Adult Dog Food Once you have selected the best adult dog food for your puppy, you are ready to transition them slowly onto their new diet. Because rapid diet changes can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs, such as vomiting and diarrhea , it is recommended to introduce the new food slowly over a period of five days or so. Continue to feed your puppy as many times per day as they are used to throughout this process. If your puppy develops vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of appetite, stop feeding the adult dog food and see your veterinarian. How Often to Feed Your Dog For large-breed puppies, it may be best for them to continue to eat three times per day. For medium-breed puppies, they should continue to be fed twice daily when they have been transitioned to adult dog food. For small-breed puppies, you may consider transitioning them to eating twice daily instead of three times per day after they are fully on adult dog food. This may involve providing more attention and playtime for your dog as they become accustomed to fewer feedings per day. Consider extra walks, extra playtime, or brushing to distract them from feelings of hunger. Some dogs may benefit from high-fiber adult dog food to increase feelings of fullness between meals. Your dog may also enjoy cleaned, raw fruits and vegetables such as sliced carrots, cucumbers, or apples without the core or seeds. If you have any questions about transitioning your puppy to adult dog food, contact your veterinarian. In addition, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist can be a great resource for any issues that come up, and they can help develop the best diet and feeding schedule for your new family member. Featured image: iStock. Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? When should I change my German Shepherd puppy to adult food? Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. This is a very controversial topic. I'll bet if you asked 10 dog owners this question you'd get 10 different answers. Growing puppies should only be fed a high quality puppy diet which you need to continue feeding until your dog reaches 80 to 90 percent of his anticipated adult weight. For many German Shepherd puppies, this occurs usually around 8 to 9 months of age. Keep in mind that individual German Shepherd puppies growth rates will vary greatly from dog to dog. If your puppy is growing exceptionally quickly, you might want to ask your vet about switching your GSD puppy to adult food even sooner. And how will you know if your puppy is growing faster than most, you may ask? Well, for one thing I would check with your own GSD breeder. And if you didn't get your German Shepherd puppy from a breeder, for example, if you got your puppy from a rescue organization or from a shelter or maybe some other source I would then suggest speaking with your veterinarian about your pups growth rate and when the change in diet should occur. You may wonder why you don't just start feeding your puppy adult food in just one meal or so. That's just asking for trouble. There's a really good reason for this slow transition from one type of dog food to another - to avoid upsetting your dog's intestinal tract or causing diarrhea. If you were to just drastically switch from one food to another without this transition period you will have runny poops and just overall messy poops and a puppy with an upset stomach. And this can be easily avoided by following the transition as suggested above. And for adult GSD's, I always suggest feeding a good quality dry food only. You don't need to supplement a good quality dry dog food with any type of canned food. A good dry food is an excellent choice for a growing German Shepherd in many respects and it is very beneficial to their teeth as canned foods can cause many problems with tooth decay. What puts man in a higher state of evolution is that he has got his laugh on the right end. According to Total German Shepherd , all feeding changes should be made gradually to ensure the best possible results. The food recommended by the breeder or rescue organization should be used for the first few weeks to avoid digestive disruption, and kibble should be mixed with a little water. Clean water should be available to your puppy all day but taken up at night. Puppies between eight and 12 weeks old do best with being fed three or four times daily. After 12 weeks, feeding your puppy twice a day is fine. Any changes to the amount of food a puppy eats should be done gradually. Puppies will experience their most significant growth rates between three and six months old. In most cases, this will be around a year old, although larger males might take longer to reach this size. The Happy Puppy Site states that a lot of problems German Shepherds can encounter are due to bone growth that occurs too rapidly. These issues include hip dysplasia. Choosing the right food and feeding the right amount both play a leading role in making sure your puppy grows at an acceptable rate. A raw diet might prove beneficial once your dog has reached adult size. One of the possible benefits is reducing the possibility of hip dysplasia. When your puppy has a growth rate that follows a proper pace, the dog will reach the appropriate proportions when they are supposed to. Even though all dogs run the risk of injury, a puppy that grows at the appropriate rate has healthier bones. Puppy food for large breeds with a high protein level is best for German Shepherd puppies. Whenever possible, it is always a good idea to continue the same brand and essential formulation, but to switch to the adult version when appropriate. You will not only avoid any issues with finicky behavior but will also help ensure that your puppy continues to meet its essential nutritional needs. The outcome of taking these steps will be better overall health for your dog. Then, you will replace half the food for two days and three-quarters for two days, ultimately making the switch totally to the new food. This process should take two to four weeks. This video helps put the process of switching your dog over to another food into perspective. This relatively simple step is an essential way of making sure that your dog is nourished. Avoid adding supplements, because they may add too many nutrients that are already present in the food. Eggs, cooked vegetables, or yogurt make suitable additives for better digestion or flavor variety if you want to provide a treat. Amanda J. These guidelines may vary depending on the brand and formulation. Make sure your dog keeps a healthy weight. The spine, ribs, and pelvic bones should be easy to lightly feel. All GSDs should have a visible waistline. If the food your puppy is eating seems to be leaving them unsatisfied or they do not appear to be gaining healthy weight levels, you may need to consider following up with your veterinarian. Medium-length beef marrow bones can be a tasty treat in addition to their food, especially if stuffed with pumpkin without any spices or peanut butter. However, avoid pork or poultry bones, because these can splinter very easily. Gravy should never be given as a treat because of its potential to cause diarrhea. Another concern is that gravy might contain spices possibly toxic to dogs. Avoid feeding table scraps for the same reason. There are concerns about some kibble-based dog foods that owners should be aware of, according to Anna Burke. These foods include grain-free varieties high in potato and legume content like lentils or peas. Such ingredients increase the risk of canine dilated cardiomyopathy. Large dogs like Shepherds may be somewhat more prone to this condition. If you want to consider this diet, wait until your dog has achieved adult size. Avoid homemade diets, as these are mostly deficient in crucial nutrients that growing puppies require. Melissa Smith notes that timing is everything when it comes to switching from puppy to adult food, and your vet will play a leading role. One of the reasons why timing is so important is because the calorie content of puppy food is so high. This can make the young adult dog gain weight too quickly, in the wrong places, particularly the belly area, where fat can be dangerous. A growth spurt after a year is possible in German Shepherds, particularly males, and your vet may have a good idea of when the growth will finish. However, what about Shepherds that are not purebred? This question is very reasonable, as it is a little more difficult to guess when a mixed-breed is done growing. Compare your measurements to popular GSD growth charts for reference. Consider making sure your vet is on-board as you make the transition from puppy food to adult. Your vet will be able to spot any nutritional deficits that require addressing. Another advantage is being able to ensure the dog has proper bone growth. If your German Shepherd has needs that require a special diet, your vet will be able to provide valuable guidance about the appropriate timing. Even though you might find it challenging to think about obesity when your dog is transitioning out of puppyhood, this stage is not too early by any means. Early prevention is key to stopping many conditions besides hip dysplasia. Both obesity and being underweight can come with their share of problems for your growing dog. Obesity, when unchecked, can not only lead to bone and joint issues but can also lead to heart disease and diabetes. If your dog is underweight, Amber King recommends a high-protein diet with a moderate amount of fat. Follow up with your vet to help uncover the cause of the low body weight. Another possible health issue of concern, according to Dr. OCD is a condition that involves abnormal cartilage growth at the end of a joint. Wobbler syndrome is another condition that may have its origins in overly rapid growth. This disorder is a neurological condition that affects the spinal cord in the neck area, often leading to difficulties with walking. When you have a growing German Shepherd, the right nutrition makes all the difference in their growth and development. Even though it may feel as though the amount of information on nutrition is overwhelming, it is essential. Making the right choices early on will mean greater health and happiness for your dog. A dog that grows at a reasonable, healthy rate will do much better in life. Recommended reading:. Your puppy should have access to clean water throughout the day, but it should be taken away at night. Puppies between the ages of eight and twelve weeks benefit from being fed three or four times per day. Any changes in the amount of food a puppy consumes should be implemented gradually. A German shepherd puppy needs a lot of food between 6 and 8 months to grow into an adult. Adult food provides numerous superfluous nutrients that the puppy does not need at that time. Feed him tiny servings of puppy food per day. After a year, you can switch him to adult food. It is recommended to feed your dog as directed by the manufacturer. These instructions may vary by brand and composition. Make sure your dog stays fit. To feel the spine, ribs, and pelvic bones. A noticeable waistline is a must. German Shepherds are capable of consuming a wide variety of human meals, including beef, chicken, pig, turkey, salmon, tuna, and eggs. Fruits and vegetables such as apples, bananas, berries, carrots , peas, and pumpkins are also permitted. Additionally, you can feed your GSD additional foods such as rice and noodles, yogurt, and cheese. This procedure should take two to four weeks to finish. Supplements should be avoided since they may add too many nutrients to the diet that are already there. If you wish to provide a treat, eggs, cooked vegetables, or yogurt are excellent additives for improved digestion or flavor variation. Although it is natural for young German shepherd pups to be hungry, persistent hunger should be a matter of concern. Worms can make your dog be ever hungry. Carol is a paw parent, and her love for dogs started when she was just 5. She adores her two German Shepherds and a Bengal cat, who she says, "life would be incomplete without" Recent Posts. Growth and weight The German Shepherd puppy is a popular addition to many households. Sometimes called the Alsatian puppy, the German Shepherd was initially developed for herding and now commonly used as a working dog or pet. This is your guide to providing all the nutrients your new puppy needs. When Your Puppy Comes Home Although they look pretty sturdy at eight weeks old, German Shepherd puppies are vulnerable to tummy upsets when they arrive at a new home. To help them settle in stick with the food their breeder was giving them for the first two weeks minimum. You can then gradually swap over by increasing proportions over the course of a couple of days. However, if they are doing well on their original food, considering sticking with it for longer. To begin with follow the guidelines provided by the breeder, the feed manufacturer or by your veterinarian. This will vary depending on how calorie dense the food is and how it is formulated. Your puppy should be fed four times a day up to the age of four months. After this age, two larger meals at regular times will be sufficient. However, the more often you feed your pup the stronger your bond will grow. Simple sits and recalls, puppy tricks, they all make a big difference to how your dog behaves towards you and feels about you as they grow. What to Feed A German Shepherd Puppy You will find there are a lot of different opinions about what kind of food is best. Kibble and wet food are the most popular, but you do also have the option of raw or homemade meals. Puppy Kibble Great quality, high meat content kibble is my go-to for feeding larger puppy breeds. At the beginning of the day I measure out their daily food amount, then separate it into little pots. Some as meals, and the remainder to use throughout the day to reward good behavior or get off on the right foot with positive reinforcement. The FDA recently issued a notice alerting dog owners to a potential increased risk of a serious heart condition. This is called canine dilated cardiomyopathy DCM. The risk is in dogs eating foods that include peas, lentils, or potatoes instead of grains. The underlying cause of these cases is not clear, but the FDA note suggests that caution should be used in selecting foods with these ingredients for German Shepherds and other large dogs. Canned Dog Food For picky eaters canned food can be more appealing. It smells stronger, and debatably tastes nicer. These diets do not include cooked or otherwise processed foods. However, it may be more difficult to regulate a BARF diet to ensure a slow and steady growth rate in young puppies. If you find this option intriguing, you can check out our article on feeding your dog a raw diet. Homemade Diets Research has shown that in the past, poorly balanced homemade diets have been harmful to German Shepherd puppies. There is now abundant information available to anyone who is willing and able to produce a safe and balanced diet. However, modern cases studies have shown that well-meaning owners may still over-feed or create an unbalanced diet. So, this is an area where you really can have too much of a good thing. As with commercial foods, homemade diets must be properly formulated for a large breed dog. Do not deviate from recommended recipes as provided by a veterinarian. If possible, preferably a vet with a board certification in veterinary nutrition. Recipes published in popular magazine and websites may not be nutritionally complete or suitable for a large breed puppy. Is My Puppy the Right Weight? You can also refer to German Shepherd puppy growth charts to see if you puppy is gaining weight and within the normal range. However, keep in mind that some dogs will be unusually small or large but still be perfectly healthy. Do not try to maximize growth rates as this can lead to health problems later. Ensure that you are familiar with how to assess the body condition of your puppy. The ribs and spine should be easy to feel but not simple to see. My Puppy Is Still Hungry If your puppy seems excessively hungry provide more frequent but smaller meals. Young puppies cannot tolerate going without food for extended periods. With older puppies you may wish to experiment with foods that help them feel more full, and provide low calories treats. Keeping a health puppy active and occupied will help prevent them from becoming overly focused on anticipating their next meal.