german shepherd puppies in washington state

He's a very good dog in so many ways but, I have a problem with their neutering policy. They neutered him at six weeks. This was not optional. From all the vets that I have spoke to about this, six weeks is way too early. So, be prepared for that if you're planning to get a pup from them. Other than that they were ok to deal with. Mily Marrero Getting my next puppy from here. Karen has been really responsive throughout the entire process. Kim Geib 2 years ago We had a great experience with Karen and Mark. I highly recommend them! The owners r so nice n very knowledgeable!! The whole experience was hands down a 10!!! Very obedient and loving, we were having trouble realizing when she wanted to go to the bathroom so we got her a bell on chewy, which was recommended Smartbell. Pia is absolute joy to be around and you can tell she was raised for the first 2 months of her life. Her hair quality is just???? Now she wants to get another one! What a great experience! We did a ton of research to make sure that this breed was the proper choice for our family. We also did our due diligence in researching breeders in the area before settling on TBAL. And we could not be happier. Mark and Karen have been fantastic from the first contact all the way through picking up our new family member today. Even during these confusing times of dealing with Covid, things went so smoothly. Up front, we were provided with all the info we would need, Through the process we were constantly keep abreast of updates on the puppies and always supplied pictures of their growth and development. If we had any questions along the way, Mark and Karen made sure that we got quick and proper answers. When we went to pick our puppy up today, you could tell that this is more than just a business. The dogs there are family members. You can just see the love, affection and caring provided to these animals. Before we left, they made sure we knew what we needed to know to provide our puppy with the best life possible and to keep her healthy and happy. We are so pleased with TBAL from start to finish. You can not go wrong with them Janet Hitzel 2 years ago We got our beautiful Australian Labradoodle from these fine breeders. Best decision. Great, healthy, smart dog! Dana 2 years ago Couldn't be more in love. Patience will get you the perfect pup! It really shows now that she's home???? Very good with kids. May get another. To start, Mark and Karen are not only extremely professional and thoroughly knowledgeable, they are also just incredibly kind people. They answered all of our questions both before and after we brought her home! Now for Our Nova girl——at 6 months old, she is hands down the best dog we have ever owned. She is sweet, CALM, smart, easy to train, and very tolerant of our small kids. We have already started training her with obedience classes, on our way to certifying her as a therapy dog. Laurie Charpentier Enjoyed being able to look at all the pups coming up for adoption. Jon sharkey 4 years ago We were not prior dog owners. We have had our dog now for over 8 years and seasoned dog owners tell us all the time it is the best dog they have ever come in contact with. The dogs parents were therapy dogs and the temperament of this dog was exactly the same. No major vet issues with the dog. Breeders were great in the process. Jennifer Carr 4 years ago Very knowledgeable, conscientious breeders! They have kept us informed and sent us pictures every few days since her birth. We have a magnificent pup thanks to them. Jean Schloerb 4 years ago We have had Rosie a little over 2 years. She is the best!!! So easily trained, so smart. Also loves all animals, kids and cartoons. As far as breeders go, Karen and Mark are fabulous. I know with many pedigrees there are weaknesses. She is extremely healthy. Beautiful coat.Sooo affectionate. She literally looks you in the eye when you talk to her. Jim Fuller 6 years ago This is a class act operation.Karen and Mark are knowledgeable and willingly open their home and answer all your questions. They are located in the St. Petersburg, Tampa Bay and St. Pete Beach areas of Florida. To learn more you can visit their website here or send them an email at tbalusa gmail. They have been in business since .They breed allergy and asthma friendly mini, medium and standard size Australian Labradoodle puppies. All of their breeding dogs are health tested according to the standard of the Worldwide Australian Labradoodle Association. The kennel was founded by Peggy, who opened her business because of her love for dogs and desire for safer breeding practices. They socialize and teach. And, they provide a lot of interaction between their puppies. Individualized attention to their litters. They start training early and send them home vaccinated. They are located in Tampa Bay and Central Florida. To learn more about Seaspray and their upcoming litters, visit their website here. Lakewood Labradoodles Lakewood is a breeder of allergy friendly australian labradoodles. Located in Winter Haven, they raise their puppies inside their home as members of their family. Before you can take them home, Lakewood helps to begin the training process by laying a foundation for a well trained pet. For more information on their upcoming litters, visit their website here. They specialized in miniature to medium sized Australian Labradoodle puppies. I do not work outside of the home and I am fully involved in their upbringing, early development and training. They test for genetic diseases such as hip dysplasia, PRA and have eye exams annually. Before you bring your puppy home, they will be vaccinated, given a microchip, dewormed and given a well-puppy exam at 8 weeks. Plus, their litters are evaluated by a behaviorist to ensure good behavior before you bring your new dog home. To learn more about their upcoming litters and to view their dogs, visit their website here. They genetically and radio graphically test all their dogs for genetic disease and any health issues. Their puppies come with a 2 year health guarantee. The communication you provided during the process was spot on. With an excited family, it was great seeing the updates on the puppy and the pictures. Beau is beautiful and loved. He has a personality all his own, different than the Labs we owned. My wife Kelly got diagnosed with breast cancer not long after we got Beau and he has been a great pal for her. He loves her and she loves him. They breed their dogs to the highest of standards and each dog is registered and health tested to the regulations of the ALCA. Additionally, they have all of their breeding dogs DNA profiles so you know that you are getting an Authentic Multigenerational Australian Labradoodle. Before you bring your puppy home, they use neurological stimulation and activities to promote well behaved and confident pets. We want to raise our Australian Labradoodle puppies to have the best chance to grow into confident, stable and able to handle the stresses and challenges of a modern lifestyle. Fursure Helps Pet Parents Find The Best Pet Insurance Policy With the cost of veterinary bills rising each year, you could easily find yourself paying thousands out of pocket if an accident or illness were to occur. Let our team at Fursure help you get started on finding the best pet insurance policy for your furry friend. You pet will thank you! To get your pet protected and covered in just a few minutes , buy a pet insurance policy today! Join the Pack No spam. Just the very best in show products, expert pet parenting advice, and more.Read about our privacy policy. Thank you! Your submission has been received! Something went wrong while submitting the form. Introducing pet insurance that pays your vet directly. We let you keep your cash on hand, so you can focus on giving your pet the best care possible. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Tampa Florida and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in Tampa FL? We have answers. What makes Uptown better than other sites with Labradoodle puppies in Tampa? In order to successfully apply for a listing with Labradoodle Pup, we must be sure that you are the best breeders in the Tampa area. We will only accept those who meet our standards. That means no puppy mills! What kind of breed is an Australian Labradoodle for sale in Tampa? Both are hybrid breeds. Are Labradoodle puppies Tampa a good choice as family dogs? They love playing with kids and will always be happy to get some extra playtime! Can Uptown Puppies help? Is a Labradoodle for sale Tampa easy to train? The Labradoodle is one of the smartest dog breeds around, and its soft, non-shedding coat makes it an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. Signing up for a course of puppy training classes is a great way to establish the appropriate techniques for your new dog. As with any dog, practice makes perfect! They can also provide you with all the transport options available to you so you can choose what works best for you. Their breeder will also be able to answer any questions you might have about your new pet. Do you suggest a particular food for Labradoodle puppies for sale Tampa? You can also ask your vet for his or her thoughts on dog food and other products used for dogs. What transport options do Tampa Labradoodle breeders offer? We have a range of different transport options that will suit your needs. We can also help you choose the best option for your puppy. The most popular transport method is flying into your local airport in the lower 48 states. If you want to know the exact health records of a particular breed, you should seek out a breeder or shelter that specializes in that specific dog breed. Choosing Uptown means choosing certainty and peace of mind. How much exercise does a Labradoodle Tampa need? You need to combine fun times like walks, playtime, and games with mental stimulation to keep your dog happy. These dogs love to play but also love to relax.

The Beabull: the good and the bad What is a Beabull dog? The Beabull is the cross between the English Bulldog and the Beagle , two of the most popular breeds today. The Bulldog and Beagle mix is becoming just as well-known among pet owners because of its even temperament. Beabulls are kid-friendly dogs , showing patience and affection even with the youngest children. Bulldog-Beagle hybrids are also playful and eager to please due to their Beagle parentage. Beagle and Bulldog mixes are companion dogs that are extremely devoted to their families. The crossbreed is adaptable to a wide variety of living situations; a Bulldog-Beagle will be as happy in an apartment as in a house with a backyard. Whether your family is highly active or laid-back, a Beagle and Bulldog cross will fit right in. What does a Beabull look like? Since neither the Bulldog nor the Beagle is particularly large, you can expect the Bulldog and Beagle mix to be a small dog as well. These pint-sized dogs are most likely bred from mini or teacup English Bulldogs or so-called Pocket Beagles, which nowadays are simply Beagles that are smaller than the standard. Common coat colors for this crossbreed include white, brown, merle, speckled, brindle, golden, and spotted. What is the energy level of a Beabull? The Bulldog Beagle mix usually enjoys lazing around all day and will experience occasional bursts of energy. Is training a Beabull difficult? Beagle-Bulldog hybrids enjoy mentally stimulating tasks and challenges, so these dogs are generally easy to train. The Bulldog Beagle mix responds best to positive reinforcement, especially when its favorite food is used as a reward. This way, you can prevent problems with aggression as your dog grows up. Unfortunately, these nibbles can turn out to be quite painful, especially since most Beabulls inherit the strong jaws of their Bulldog parents. One way to discourage biting in your Beabull is to stop playing with the puppy as soon as it uses its mouth on your skin. You can also give your dog chew toys, so it learns to bite only appropriate objects. Howling Despite their docile nature, Bulldog-Beagle mixes tend to howl, a trait they get from the Beagle. Your Bulldog Beagle cross will usually howl out of boredom or separation anxiety. You can keep your Beagle-Bulldog mix occupied by taking it for a walk or playing fetch. Like with most dogs, certain health issues may affect the lifespan of a Bulldog Beagle mix. Many Beabulls suffer from brachycephaly , a shortened facial structure that causes breathing issues and other health problems. This condition is common among Bulldog breeds and their crosses. The Frug , a French Bulldog and Pug mix, for instance, is a brachycephalic breed as well. Due to this condition, most Beagle-Bulldog hybrids must be closely supervised during exercise and kept indoors during hot weather. Aside from brachycephaly, Bulldog Beagle mixes may be prone to digestion problems, hip dysplasia, and intervertebral disk disease. These crossbreeds may also inherit a predisposition to hypothyroidism and eye problems due to their Beagle parentage. No matter how much your dog may beg, keep its diet restricted to 3 to 4 cups of dog food every day. If your Beagle and Bulldog crossbreed has an underbite, put his food in a shallow, wide bowl. This will make it easier for your dog to eat. Grooming Most Beabulls are heavy shedders, especially in the spring and fall. During these seasons, you may need to brush your Beagle-Bulldog mix as much as 3 to 4 times a week to get rid of dead hair and keep its coat shiny. You can save some effort in removing loose hair from your Bulldog-and-Beagle mix by running a vacuum cleaner over its coat. Due to its heavy shedding, the Bulldog Beagle Mix is not a hypoallergenic breed. If you feel like your Beagle and Bulldog crossbreed is getting too dirty between baths, you can wipe over its coat with a damp cloth. Where can I find Beabull puppies for sale? Here are some Beabull breeders you can contact:. Beabull Highlights Beabulls are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Beagle or English Bulldog parents. The most common colors of Beabulls are brown and white, tri-colored, gold, and solid white. Their coats can be solid, spotted, or even brindle. Due to the amount of shedding, they are not suited for owners who suffer from allergies. The Beabull is a sturdy dog who will often engage in rough and mouthy play, so until your pup is fully trained, it is best to keep an eye on children when they interact. While they can be considered lazy, these pups tend to get bursts of energy and will need a quick game of fetch or a walk to burn it off. After that exercise, Beabulls will most likely want to just curl up with their owners. Due to their stubborn nature and mischievous streaks, Beabulls are not well suited for first time dog owners. Beabull History The Beabull dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but once designer breeds gained popularity, breeders began intentionally mixing Beagles and English Bulldogs, likely twenty years or so ago in North America. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to elongate the muzzle of the English Bulldog, which often creates breathing problems. They continued to create Beabulls as demand for this mild mannered companion dog climbed. Even though the Beabull mixed breed got their start as a designer breed, some have still ended up in shelters or in rescue groups. If this dog is the one for you, consider adoption. Check your local shelters, rescue groups, and breed specific Beagle or English Bulldog rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breeds and find homes for them. Beabull Size As the Beabull is still a relatively new breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That being said, as a mix between Beagle and English Bulldog parents, you can expect Beabulls to be on the medium side. Most Beabulls weigh in at 30 to 60 pounds and range in height from twelve to 16 inches at the shoulder. However, many can be smaller or larger depending on which breed characteristics they acquire from both parents. Beabull Personality Many Beabull lovers describe this mixed breed as playful, social, and strong-willed. Like most Beagles, they tend to bark and howl rather frequently. Due to the strong-willed, stubborn personality of the Beabull, early training is key. They will often get mouthy while playing, and seeing as one parent is the English Bulldog, these playful nips and bites may be painful. Beabulls are very intelligent dogs and it is imperative to be patient and firm with training. They do best with positive reinforcement, especially treats, seeing as they are very food-driven pups. The Beabull is a very social dog and will be just as happy having one owner as they would be having an entire family to adore. They are very adaptable dogs and are extremely easy to please, making them a great pet. Beabull Health The Beabull is a fairly healthy mixed breed, but can be predisposed to the health issues faced by Beagles and English Bulldogs. Some of the more common health problems Beabulls suffer from include: Obesity. He is my first dog. He is a mix between an English Bulldog and Beagle. I raised him since he was first born. Very loving, smart and outgoing. He is very lazy, but loves to play outside when he is feeling hyper. I love his howl. He guards our home and is a member of our family. It is a cross between the Beagle and the Bulldog. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. We got him when he was 8 weeks old. He loves to play tug-of-war and go for walks. He can be very lazy at times and other times loves to be outside playing with any kind of balls. He sploots a lot known as frog legging. I just love when he does that. He is loveable, happy, playful, the best cuddle buddy and is so smart. He loves to play ball, go for walks and socialize with humans and other dogs. My boyfriend and I have been raising him since he was 8 weeks old. He is always lazy in the morning and likes to stay up late! I love my pup so much! He loves to lie in traditional Bulldog style, taking up most of whatever area he is in. Ollie is three years old and weighs 63 lbs. If he even thinks he heard you say "rope" he is on a dead run to find it and play. Claudette the Beabull at 3 years old—"Claudette had been returned to the shelter three times and was on death row when we found each other. Claudette is a clown who loves to wiggle into the heart of everyone she meets. She loves to hike, ride in the car and snuggle. Claudette has two brothers and one sister furbaby and lots of dog friends. And above all else loves to play soccer and will retrieve soccer balls and basket balls as long as someone will kick them. He is absolutely hilarious. He loves to go for walks , so much as have to spell it out w-a-l-k. He lies with his feet flat on the floor, typical of Bulldogs. He knows how to sit, stay, shake and roll over, and we have watched the Dog Whisperer together and now he has to wait to eat his food until we say "okay. Although very hyper like a Beagle, she can be lazy too like a Bulldog. She chews on anything and everything. But at the end of the day, exhausted from playing, she can be VERY loveable! I love this mix and am very happy with having her in the family! Duke is an excellent dog. He loves to run in the yard and cuddle in the house. He is very stubborn and was difficult to train because he had his own ideas of training. He is incredibly intelligent and will try to out-smart you with everything. If you hide his toy duck in the house and take him outside for hours, he will come in the house and find the duck right away. Duke has the body of a Bulldog, head of a Beagle, and the attitude of the Bulldog. He is very loving and wants to always be near you. He does best with having a daily walk and frequent trips outside. He currently weighs 54 lbs. He does not bark, but will sometimes give you the Beagle howl. He is very observant and will lie like a Bulldog while watching TV. Lola is a little over 1 year old now and weighs about 50 lbs. She's got a great temperament! Eager to please us, playful and loving. This is the best dog I've ever owned! Size Life Span The exceptional personalities of both the Beagle and the English Bulldog are merged in the Beabull; a superb family dog and low-maintenance companion for even the novice dog owner. The two breeds, which make up the Beabull, were extremely popular in Europe and the U. When those qualities outgrew their usefulness in the 20th century, the Beabull offered a more modern and family-friendly alternative for this extraordinary gene pool. A Beabull that tends to be more mischievous and rambunctious with bursts of hyperactivity is likely to be more Beagle-dominant. Either way, the Beabull is a friendly, good-natured, and loyal family dog. They are very intelligent and very devoted companions. Your Beabull is likely to follow you wherever you go. Some Beabulls are very easygoing. Some Beabulls, who are especially Beagle-dominant, will have a comical quality about them. They are also very affectionate and might climb into your lap. Although they are known to have a stubborn streak, they are, generally, easily trained. Caution should be taken with a particularly clever Beabull, who will try to outsmart you for extra treats. The Beabull is a highly adaptable dog that does well in all kinds of environments. They are sporty as well as great house pets. They do well in most climates, but, as with any dog, do not typically do well in extreme hot or cold. They will adapt to apartment living or in the securely fenced-in yard of a house. They can keep up with an active family, but can also adapt to the lifestyle of a family, which is less active. Engagement and mental stimulation is key. As loyal members of the family, they do not like to be alone for long periods of time. This designer breed will inherit the particular health issues of both of its Beagle and English Bulldog ancestors. Asking your breeder about the genetic history of the parents and to see any health clearances can help allay potential health concerns. Like most highly intelligent breeds, the Beabull is most happy when she is mentally stimulated. A bored Beabull might try to create her own fun by getting into mischief. Owners who derive satisfaction from engaging in interesting activities with their dogs will find a perfect fit with the Beabull. Playtime with challenging games and toys can help keep your Beabull engaged. Beabulls can have a stubborn streak at times. So, they tend to be a better fit for more experienced owners. They can be a good fit for novice owners as long as obedience classes are part of the process. Beabulls can be noisy dogs, especially when emitting a powerful beagle howl. Owners with children are especially pleased to have this playful, devoted, and protective pet to engage with their kids. However, they can exhibit bursts of high-energy behavior and play-bite a bit too aggressively at times. Socialization and training early on can help curb any behaviors that might be unwanted once your Beabull is fully grown. However, they are heavy shedders and require frequent brushing just to collect their copious amounts of fur. You do only want to bathe as needed. Bathing too frequently can cause your Beabull to have dry skin. The ears of the Beabull require special attention. Because they have inherited the long, floppy ears of the Beagle, their ears are especially susceptible to infection. You will want to check these regularly to ensure they are dry and free of dirt. Their wrinkled skin should also be checked periodically for parasites and skin problems, to which they may also be especially vulnerable. Their nails should be trimmed monthly and their teeth brushed regularly as well. Young Beabulls have a ton of energy, but they can be trained to control their own enthusiasm. They are known to have sudden bursts of energy, which looks like hyperactivity. Some family playtime and daily walks with their favorite people are all that is required to keep them happy and healthy. They are able to amuse themselves in a securely fenced-in backyard. Beabulls are medium-sized dogs that can stand between 12 and 14 inches at the shoulder and can weigh between 30 and 50 pounds. Looking at the size of the parents will give you a better idea of what size to expect in your Beabull. A Beabull will generally live for years. Beabull Puppies for Sale.

Image used with permission by copyright holder How long does it take to potty train an English bulldog? Training an English bulldog to obey any command takes time and effort. Just like some human children learn new skills quickly, some dogs pick up new commands with ease. On the flip side, some dogs — like some children — require a bit more time before they master a new ability. A housebroken puppy makes for a clean, happy home When your bulldog puppy reaches the 12 to 16 week mark , you can begin potty training in earnest. It takes approximately four to six months to completely potty train a bulldog puppy, though the process may last a shorter — or longer — duration depending on your dog. Simple training sessions, such as teaching your fur baby not to chew on your shoes or engage in aggressive play, can begin around the 12 to week mark. Image used with permission by copyright holder How do I discipline my English bulldog puppy? Disciplining your puppy can be difficult. What they do know is that their pet parent is frightening them , which can actually lead them to misbehave more often than they already do. So, how should you discipline your puppy? If that fails, redirect his attention using a noise device like a shake can. Some puppies become anxious in response to loud noises. If your dog is one of them, discontinue your use of the shake can and switch to an alternative method, such as distracting your pup from chewing on your shoes with a pet-safe chew toy. Image used with permission by copyright holder Training any dog requires consistency, time, and effort. Even notoriously stubborn breeds like English bulldogs respond to firm rules, a strict schedule, and being rewarded with lots of praise and affection. Bulldogs are more likely to be deaf than other breeds, so you may need to teach him using hand signals. Editors' Recommendations. Crate training will have many benefits for your bulldog, including protecting him from household hazards and reducing his separation anxiety. It should be either 24 x 30 inches 61 x 76 cm or 24 x 36 inches 61 x 91 cm for a French bulldog, and either 42 x 30 inches x 76 cm or 42 x 36 inches x 91 cm for an American bulldog. This will allow you to increase the crate space as your puppy grows into an adult. The crate should be a place of safety and comfort for your bulldog. Place his favorite blanket and toys in the crate. You can also place a quilt or sheet over the crate to make it feel like a cozy den. A bowl would preferable, since he wouldn't be able to pull it out of the crate very easily. Leave the door open during the early stages of crate training so he can explore the crate at his leisure. Once your bulldog is comfortable entering the crate on his own, work on closing its door behind him. Start with closing the door for only a few seconds and then letting him out. If he starts whining or crying, wait until he calms down before opening the door. When he can handle a few seconds, close the door, leave the room, and return after random lengths of time e. Remember that puppies cannot hold their bladders for very long, so you should not leave your puppy bulldog in the crate for long time periods. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source When you are home, spend time with your bulldog while he is in the crate. Bulldogs are friendly and sociable dogs; interacting with your bulldog will keep him from getting lonely. Always remember that the crate is a place of safety and comfort, not punishment. Your bulldog should always have a positive association with the crate. Please be sure to provide many chew toys to help with this transitional period. Cow hooves can be found at many pet stores and are recommended. Stay away from pig ears and cheap rawhide, and "greenies," as these can cause severe diarrhea, bloat, and are a choking hazard. For instance, keep an eye out for diarrhea if you change your pup's food. If your bulldog develops diarrhea then stop all food for 12 hours. If it persists for more than 24 hours, contact your veterinarian immediately to prevent dehydration. Puppies can dehydrate very rapidly so you need to take it seriously when diarrhea occurs. Dogs can pick up some unwanted guests: ticks, fleas, mites, lice, and intestinal worms. Your dog can be the perfect host for these pests if regular treatment for these nasty pests is not given. Your veterinarian is the best source of knowledge for the local bugs that bug the local dog population and how to prevent these pests. Heartworm is a widespread disease present spread by mosquitoes throughout most of the United States. There is a treatment for heartworm, but it is expensive and takes a toll physically on the dog and can take months to combat. This is especially important for dogs that spend a lot of time outside, that live on farms, or that hunt, as they are at increased risk of contracting this tick-borne disease. Puppies will generally have a first veterinary visit at the age of six weeks by the person who has the mother dog. The veterinarian will examine the puppies to make sure there are no hernias, heart, lung, or eye or ear problems in any of the pups. At 9 weeks, and then again at 12 weeks, the de-wormer and distemper vaccines will be repeated. Then these can be given once a year or on a schedule determined by you and your veterinarian. Lowell Ackerman. This vaccination is required by many communities. There can sometimes be severe penalties if your dog is not rabies vaccinated especially if the dog bites a person or another pet. As your dog ages, more frequent examinations will need to be given. Twice yearly examination will catch medical issues before they become big problems. Older dogs frequently suffer from arthritis and heart disease just like elderly humans. There are effective and safe treatments that can help your older dog live reasonably pain-free and pleasant golden years. It is important to spay females or neuter male your puppy. In addition to various health benefits for the dog decreased chances of certain tumors and infections , there is a big societal benefit in the decreased number of unwanted dogs. Microchipping is also encouraged in case your dog ever becomes lost. The inner ear part of the ear is normally white or darker colored, usually corresponding to the color of the dog's coat, so look for discoloring. The puppy's ears should also not smell nor have any discharge in the ear or on the flap. The ear should be free of debris, dirt, or parasites, like ticks or mites. Any of the following are abnormal: [9] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source Scratching or pawing the ear. Shaking the head excessively. If in doubt, or if you suspect an ear infection, have your veterinarian look in the ear using an otoscope to examine the eardrum. Never stick a q-tip or similar type of product into the ear canal. You will not be able to see the entire ear canal and should not try to put anything down there. Never use human toothpaste on a dog; only use dental toothpaste made for dogs. The fluoride in human toothpaste is poisonous to dogs and can cause serious health problems. Place a little puppy toothpaste on your fingertip and let your puppy lick it off. The next day put it on your finger and rub it along the outer gums. Then try to put a little on a dog toothbrush, let the puppy lick it then run the toothbrush along the outer edges of the teeth and gums. Only the outer part against the cheeks needs to be brushed. Even with regular tooth brushing, dogs may need dental cleanings once in a while. Plaque and bacteria can build up under the gum line causing problems there or in the roots of the teeth. Just like with their human owners, regular mouth examinations by their doggy dentist should be done once a year. Easy Bulldog Training Step-by-Step Guide Bulldog training may seem daunting when you first get that adorable puppy, that is why this guide will break down the process in simple and easy to follow steps. The secret to a well-behaved bulldog is to start with training as early as you adopt him. Early training helps the puppy better develop his brain and habits potty training, leash training, socialization and more! Bulldogs as pets are a great choice because they are a happy and relaxed breed. This was a cruel sport that was, fortunately, banned almost years ago. The breed retains its strength but has become a calm and amusing breed. I have personally worked with many bulldogs and non of them were stubborn at all. The stubbornness of a dog comes from not understanding its owner. The training methods outlined below will help you communicate with your bulldog successfully! As you train, keep an eye for some common British bulldog health problems like respiratory problems, overheating and skin allergies. Bulldog training can be fun and easy! Bulldog Puppy Socialization Socialization is the single most important exercise you need to do with your puppy and you have only a few months to work on it. It involves showing your puppy the world he will be living in and making positive associations with the things, animals and people in it. Every single new event, person, animal, object or sound your puppy encounters should be followed by a treat. This will make every association positive and you puppy will learn no to be fearful of new things. Learn more about socialization exercises for your bulldog puppy dog. Bulldog Potty Training Probably the second most important task is to teach your bulldog puppy to potty in one place or outside. Puppies are very smart and can learn simple things very easily. Potty training requires patience and perseverance. The main idea is to create a schedule or habit for your puppy to follow. A bulldog puppy can hold his bladder 1 hour for every month of life tops! If he has accidents, simply clean them up with an enzymatic cleaner and move on, do not punish your bulldog. Learn more about potty training schedules and techniques to teach your bulldog to potty outside in as little as one week! Teaching your bulldog puppy to moderate his biting Puppies are curious creatures and they like to explore the world with their mouth! This means that your puppy may want to bite your hands, shoes, pants, couch, table legs and even walls! There are two important things to teach your puppy about mouthing: To bite gently without hurting you , To chew only his own toys. Crate training your bulldog puppy can also help prevent home destruction and teach your puppy that the only things available for biting are his own dog toys. They are smart dogs that can learn as much as any other dog breed. Follow these steps to teach your bulldog the basics of obedience training. Positive Bulldog Training Positive bulldog training is about rewarding your dog for doing something right and ignoring your dog when he does something wrong. Positive training also involves actively teaching your pooch the things you would like him to do instead of expecting him to know on his own. There are two training methods that are very useful to teach your furry friend obedience: luring and capturing. That is why punishing or rewarding a dog for something he did in the past does not work. To help with timing, dog trainers use a marker word or a clicker. A marker word is used to mark the moment the animal did something correct and it is followed by a treat. The use of the word helps you have better timing, which in turn helps your bulldog understand what you are rewarding for faster. To teach your pooch the meaning of a marker word, all you need to do is say it and follow with the delivery of a treat. Good boy! Practice repetitions, 2 to 3 times a day and you will notice that your pooch will start responding when he hears that magic word! Bulldog training STEP 2: Teaching your bulldog its name One of the most important things to teach your bulldog is its name. This is always neglected, you name your bulldog, then assume he will understand that is they way you call him. Unfortunately, this is not true and recognizing its name is one of the most important things a dog should know. If your puppy doesn't look at you when you call him, how is he going to do what you ask? Teaching a dog its name is super easy, here are the steps: Say your bulldog's name As soon as he looks at you, say your marker word or click! Immediately afterwards, give him a treat! Repeat many times and in different places and situations. Bulldog training STEP 3: Teaching your bulldog basic obedience commands Now comes the fun part, training your bulldog to respond to basic commands.

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. House-trained, Story If this listing is up, that means she is still available!! Fill out an application if you wish to meet her! If you meet the above qualifications and you think you can be my perfect home, please continue readingDo not send an e-mail unless you have read all the way to the bottom of this Page 1. Go to our web site and fill out an application. Nothing will move forward until you do. We will give you a call within 7 Days after receiving a complete application, please do not serial e-mail us, we will work your application in the order it was received. We also work these applications between our paying jobs, taking care of our animals and families. Patience is the key! Once we speak to you and feel you are a good fit, we will set up a meet and greet 4. Once we meet and do a home visit we can then and only then finalize an adoption. Every member of your household must be present for this meeting 5. We do adopt out of state and will do a home visit out of state as well 6. We will not put our dogs on mass transport or hand off transport to get to your home. We will make every effort to meet you part of the way but that is not always possible. Unless you have outside working dogs we will not adopt to a home with outside dogs 9. Fence is required for me. Must be 25 or above to adopt exceptions may be made case by case If you have any additional questions please e-mail adopt carolina-loving-hound-rescue.

Our goal over the past 27 years is to breed high quality puppies, with a focus healthy dogs with correct conformation and sound temperaments. That can only be done through proper breeding and knowing the history of the pedigrees and genetics of the dogs that you breed. You can find and buy cheaper puppies, but you take a huge chance on the temperament, health and the genetics of that dog. Here at our kennel, we strive to provide the average family with a world class German Shepherd from West German show lines and European working lines at a affordable price. We are not a commercial kennel or a puppy mill. We breed our females to selected males with the intention of breeding the best puppies possible. We provide AKC papers, pedigrees, health record with vaccinations and deworming, microchipped, and a lifetime of breeder support. Deposits are non-refundable. We reserve the right to keep the puppies of our choice from any litter. Thank you and God bless, Jim Godwin. Protection you can Hug Come and let us help you pick a beloved new family member that will provide unconditional love and protection for you and your family. Our dogs make great family pets, they are easily trained, and have a natural protective nature. Our past dogs have produced dogs that have served as mostly family pets, But some have been Therapy dogs, comfort dogs, K-9's and Schutzhund sport dogs. We are also placing our puppies with the Mississippi department of Corrections to be trained as working K-9's. Take some time and check out our website for lots of information on what we have to offer. And if you have time, we would love for you and your family to visit our kennel, just call and set up an appointment. Our babies are adopted quickly, so reach out to reserve your furever friend or to set up an appointment to visit. Puppy pads Create a Schedule German Shepherd pups would do well with a schedule. Dogs live with a routine, and they are easy to train by having one. For this reason, make a schedule of the things you need to do regularly. Eventually, your pup will learn the routine events and will make itself adept at them. It will help you prepare for your pet, especially in the first few days of living together. As you allow your pet to adjust, do your best to create a stress-free environment for it. Always supervise it as it familiarizes itself with its new home. Still, it would be best to prepare yourself for loud noises when your pet is asleep. Moderate Training German Shepherds are highly trainable. It simply means they respond well, especially to positive reinforcement. Squeaky Toys Out of all toys, your pet will love the squeaky ones. For this reason, prepare for a lot of loud squeaks every time your pet is active. Thus, in picking your pet, you may want to consider getting it from the best. Tells you any health problems A good breeder will tell you any significant health problems in any of the dogs he or she bred. Asks more questions than you A good breeder would ask for more items from you than you would for him or her. Not in a hurry to send off A good breeder is not in a hurry to send the puppies off and get your money. He or she will even show you other breeders and veterinarians caring for their dogs. Requires expectations on both sides A good breeder will create a contract that offers not only what he or she expects from you. More than that, he or she will also show what you can expect from him or her. Sends puppies properly A good breeder will never send a puppy in a compartment and without any responsible person to go with it. Works only with one or two breeds A good breeder works only with a single or a couple of species. Shows breeding experience A good breeder shows her dogs in recognized confirmation shows. He or she will also join his or her breed in other breed-related performance events. Other states. For the complete list please see our list page. As with any breed, you should always expect to pay much more for a registered purebred puppy. Prices for German Shepherd puppies vary depending on the breeder and the pedigree of the puppy. Some breeders may charge more or less depending on whether the puppy is show quality or not. If you are interested in owning a German shepherd, be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder in Mississippi. With so many to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect one for you and your family. Here are a few tips to help you get started: Ask your friends and family for referrals. Visit local dog shows and meet with breeders in person. Be prepared to ask lots of questions about the puppies, the parents, and the breeding process. Make sure that the breeder is willing to provide you with references from previous buyers. If a breeder balks at any of your requests, consider looking for another breeder. German Shepherds are a very popular breed and there is no shortage of options when it comes to choosing one. Be patient, do your research, and you will be sure to find the perfect puppy. Visit Your Mississippi German Shepherd Breeder in Person If you are in the market for a German shepherd puppy, there are some things you should keep in mind. First, if at all possible, try to visit your Mississippi German Shepherd breeder in person to get a better idea of what sort of puppies they breed. This is beneficial to both the buyer and the seller. Breeders who are proud of their puppies will be more than happy to show them off. By visiting the breeder, you can see the environment in which the puppies are raised and get a first-hand look at the parents. This will help you to determine if the breeder is responsible and breeding healthy dogs. It is also important to ask lots of questions. A good breeder will be happy to answer all of your questions and will be more than willing to provide you with references. If the breeder seems hesitant or unwilling to answer your questions, it is best to move on. When looking for a German shepherd breeder, it is important to make sure that you are dealing with a responsible person. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your German Shepherd Breeder in Mississippi One of the best ways to determine if a German shepherd breeder is responsible is to ask for references. Good breeders will be happy to provide you with references from previous buyers. If the breeder does not have any references, or if the references are all from family members or friends, it may be best to move on. A good breeder will be more than happy to provide you with references from previous buyers who are not related to them. It is also important to ask for health clearances from the parents of the puppies. Health clearances prove that the parents have been tested for genetic disorders and are free of any diseases. If the breeder does not have any health clearances, it is best to move on. Reputable German shepherd breeders in Mississippi can be tough to find, but it is worth the effort. By following these tips, you are sure to find the perfect puppy for your family. Happy hunting! Ask Your Mississippi German Shepherd Breeder if You Can Meet Past Customers When you are looking for a German Shepherd breeder in Mississippi, one of the best ways to determine if they are bred responsibly is to ask them if you can meet some of their past customers. Reputable breeders will be more than happy to provide references from previous buyers. Meeting past customers will give you a better idea of what sort of person the breeder is. In addition, it will give you a chance to see the environment in which they have been raised and ask questions about their health and personalities. A good breeder should be more than happy to meet with past customers. If the breeder does not seem willing to let you meet previous buyers, it may be wise to walk away. A responsible Mississippi German Shepherd breeder will work hard to make sure that every puppy finds a good home and will be more than willing to provide references from previous buyers who are not related to them. A good Mississippi German Shepherd breeder should have a good veterinarian that they use. This veterinarian should be familiar with the breed and should be able to provide health clearances for the parents of the puppies. If the breeder does not have a good veterinarian, it is best to walk away. A responsible breeder will work closely with their veterinarian to ensure that their puppies are healthy and free of any genetic disorders. It is also important to ask the breeder how often they have their dogs bred. Good breeders will only breed their dogs when there is a demand for puppies. They will also only breed their dogs when they are in good health and have been cleared by their veterinarian. If you are looking for a responsible Mississippi German Shepherd breeder, be sure to ask lots of questions. A good breeder will be more than happy to answer all of your questions and will be more than willing to provide you with references. An unethical Mississippi German Shepherd breeder will be more than happy to sell you a puppy without providing you with any information about the dogs or the puppies. They may even tell you that there are no records of the parents. It is also important to avoid breeders who are not willing to provide references from previous customers. Unethical breeders tend not to have many repeat customers because they do not take care of their dogs and neglect them when they are pregnant and after they give birth. Be sure to ask lots of questions before choosing a breeder. A good breeder should be able to provide you with all kinds of information about the puppies, the parents, and themselves. If the breeder is unwilling to answer your questions or seems shady, it is best to walk away. There are plenty of reputable breeders in Mississippi who would be more than happy to help you find the perfect puppy for your family. Many unethical breeders will try to hide this information from you. These breeders are usually trying to sell their puppies as quickly as possible and do not have much concern for the well-being of the puppies or their new families. There are no perfect dogs, but there are a lot of great breeders out there who will work hard to provide you with a healthy and happy puppy. However, a reputable breeder should be more than happy to provide you with a health record for your puppy. This health record should have all of the information on the vaccines that were given and any medical treatments that have been performed. They will also be able to inform you about what genetic disorders are common with the breed so you can watch out for them. Be sure to have a safe place for the puppy to sleep. This can be a kennel or a crate, but it should be big enough for the puppy to stand up and turn around in. You will need to have a place for the puppy to eat and drink. This can be a bowl or an automatic feeder and waterer. You will need to have a place for the puppy to potty. This can be an outdoor potty area or a pee pad. You will to have some toys for the puppy to play with. You will need to have a vet lined up who can provide care for your new puppy. If you can provide your German Shepherd with all of these things, they will be happy and healthy. However, if you are unable to provide these things, it is best to find an alternative pet. This process can take some time, but it is definitely worth it in the end. The best way to potty train your puppy is to take them outside frequently. When they go potty outside, be sure to praise them and give them a treat. Another thing that you can do is to put newspaper or pee pads in an area where the puppy can go potty indoors. When they go potty on the newspaper or pee pad, be sure to praise them and give them a treat. It is important to stay consistent with both of these methods so that the puppy will learn where they are supposed to go potty. If you are consistent with potty training, your German Shepherd puppy will be potty trained in no time. However, if you do not stay consistent, the puppy will likely start to potty inside the house. The best way to train your German Shepherd is to start when they are young. One of the most important commands that you can teach your dog is how to sit. Once your dog has mastered sitting on command, you can move onto the next step. The next step is to teach your German Shepherd puppy how to stay. When you come back, give them praise and another treat. Once they understand the concept of staying, you can start teaching them how to come when called. This process will take some time because you cannot reward them with treats every single time that they come when called; otherwise, they may get sick of coming when called after while. Eventually, your German Shepherd will learn how to stay and come when called whenever they are given the command. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. If all goes as planned, there will be three planned breedings for the spring and summer months. He had an amazing temperament, was extremely athletic and black sable in color. Sarge was a proven stud known for producing his likeness and passing on his hereditary characteristics to his offspring four of which remain at Weizen German Shepherd. He has a great temperament, weighs 95 pounds and is solid black in color with massive bone structure. He is a proven stud and produces puppies with dark pigmentation and great temperaments. He has been obedience trained and had bite work training at Weizen German Shepherds. He has an excellent pedigree, great temperament and is very dark sable in color. She is black sable in color and weighs approximately 74 pounds. She is high drive, easily trainable and very protective. She is black sable in color and weighs 88 pounds. Ketura is intelligent, has a great temperament and is obedience trained. She is DM free by parentage. Dark is black sable in color, weighs 95 pounds and has an outstanding pedigree. Dark has a wonderful temperament and was obedience trained at Weizen German Shepherds. She was born and raised at Weizen German Shepherds. She is black sable in color, weighs pounds and is a natural protection dog. She is very intelligent, obedience trained and has an excellent pedigree. She is intelligent, very bold, high drive and black sable in color. She is a Sarge and Seattle daughter. She is high drive, powerful and very black sable in color. She is a fireball of energy and smart. She is eight months old and dark sable in color. Wulfe is the son of Ketura and Zor. He is two months old and will be use as a future stud pending OFA scores. He is black sable and has a wonderful temperament. All puppies are imprinted from birth using the U. Military Bio Sensor techniques and exposed to different situations on a daily basis until they go to their new homes. Lynne Wheat is a Bred with H. Please Note: Weizen German Shepherds reserves the right to have first choice puppy from any of their litters.

This sweet creature, unfortunately, gets a bad rap because of its past and because of owners who raise Pit Bulls improperly and for inappropriate reasons. Despite being originally bred for fighting, playful Pitties excel in being companions, working dogs, and service dogs. As long as you properly train and socialize your APBT, it will get along well with kids and other pets. The American Pit Bull Terrier With a height that ranges from 17 to 21 inches 43 to 53 cm and a weight that can reach up to 60 pounds 27 kgs , the Pit Bull has a muscular and proportionate body with floppy ears and a long tail. Pitties are also famous for their irresistible smile, which gives this dog a happy, expressive face. The Boxer Bred as an ancient war dog, the Boxer is another muscular and powerful dog that is said to be great with families. As a natural jumper, the playful and energetic dog needs an owner with a lot of patience who can provide him the exercise, training, and socialization he needs. A Boxer puppy It has a short muzzle and full, round eyes, and looks confused or curious in an irresistible way. With a short, sleek coat, this dog has a height between .Boxers, without a doubt, are loving dogs. Does this hybrid look more like Pit Bull or the Boxer? Their appearance is unpredictable, but one thing you can be sure of is that Pitoxers could have more attributes from one parent compared to the other. How big will a Pitbull Boxer mix get? Male and female Pitoxers can grow to 17 to 20 inches 43 to 51 cm and 16 to 19 inches 41 to 48 cm in height, respectively. Males have an average weight range of 60 to 80 pounds 27 to 36 kg while females can weigh between 50 to 70 pounds 23 to 32 kg. The beautiful Pitbull Boxer Mix This medium-to-large dog has a broad head and chest, short muzzle, long legs, and a short, smooth coat. Its coat comes in all sorts of colors, but the most common ones are black, brown, yellow, and tan. With their short hair and lack of double coat, they are sensitive to extreme weather conditions. During summer, stay away from intense heat by taking your Boxer Pit mix out early in the morning or at night. They also have a fun-loving, even-tempered nature, so they usually fit in well with most families. Boxer Pitbull mixes generally have a more stable temperament and are less aggressive. They like staying close to their pack, so many of them are affectionate and loyal companions. The key is to reduce the likelihood of aggression in the Boxer Pit mix is proper training. You can keep your Pitoxer from turning into an overprotective guard dog by introducing him to as many animals and people as you can. If they are socialized at a young age and are treated with love and respect by the people around them, these crossbreeds can be such a joy to have around. A good dog is a reflection of its owner, and how your Pitbull-Boxer cross turns out depends on how you raise it. Does this pup look like a scary fellow to you? How does the Boxer Pitbull Mix behave around other pets like cats? If a Pitoxer puppy gets proper socialization, it will grow up without having trouble getting along with the other pets that you have in the house. Yes, even with cats. Taking in a full-grown Pitbull Boxer Mix is a different matter. Prepare for a potentially problematic situation between him and the other pets, especially cats and smaller dogs. Be gentle yet consistent in teaching your dog commands. Use rewards and lots of praise to encourage him to be obedient. Punishing your pet is likely lead to result in aggression. Do these hybrids shed fur? Brushing his coat once a week is enough. You can use a bristle brush or a grooming mitt for ease. Unfortunately, the coat of the Pitbull Boxer mix is not hypoallergenic due to its moderate shedding. You can bring them to the vet or a reputable groomer once a month for ear check-ups, too. Big breeds like the Boxer Pit need 2 cups of dry dog food a day, split into two or three meals. If your dog has an average level of activity, they would need around 1, to 1, calories a day. Aside from food, make sure your Boxer Pit mix has clean drinking water at all times. Providing the exercise these crossbreeds need Coming from strong, muscular purebred parents, the Pitbull Boxer mix requires a lot of physical activity. Help your Boxer Pit mix release his pent-up energy through 2 hours of physical activities per day. Once you notice that your dog is starting to slow down and pant, give him a 5-minute break and give him some water to hydrate and cool-off. Make sure to give your dog the exercise it needs. Insufficient physical activity can lead to frustration which means barking, digging, and destruction. These are tips for a full-grown Pitoxer, though. Health problems that the Pitbull Boxer Mix may get You might think that giving your dog enough exercise and keeping an eye on his diet should keep him healthy enough throughout his lifespan of 10 to 14 years. Though these hybrids are generally healthy, they can still be susceptible to the health conditions that affect their parent breeds, such as:. Brindle 2. She needs plenty of exercise and lots of play! Given that both the Boxer and the Pitbull were bred for use as working dogs, these breeds are very energetic, so your Boxer Pitbull Mix requires a lot of exercise. This is what a well-exercised Boxer Pitbull Mix should look like: The Boxer Pitbull Mix is very playful and will need lots of toys at home. Careful, though! With her strong jaw and love of chewing, this dogs can destroy a chew toy within minutes. When you take her out, take a ball or a Frisbee to play fetch. She will love it! You should take her out for a brisk one-hour walktwice a day. If you are running, twenty minutes to half an hour should be enough. If your dog tires you will notice her slowing or beginning to pant excessively you should stop for a five-minute break and hydrate her. I recommend taking out a collapsible doggie bowl in which you can give her water. A note on exercising your Pitbull Boxer Mix puppy This advice on exercise applies to the adult dog only, as when large-breed puppies do too much running and ball-chasing this can cause long-term injuries. With your Pitbull Boxer Mix puppy, it is best to do lots of short walks and indoor play until she matures, at about 1 year — 16 months. Watch this 11 week old Pitbull Boxer Mix. She is curious, playful, active, and absolutely, jaw-droppingly gorgeous. Whatever the weather — not with this dog! In rainy weather, she will need a doggie coat to keep her warm. During summer months, it is best to take her out in the early morning or the evening when the sun is less intense. She may still need sunscreen, but make sure you purchase one without zinc oxide, as it is toxic for dogs. The Pitbull is also a very affectionate dog when well-socialized, who will lick you all over if you give her an inch. She was in fact bred for both work and companionship , and due to her gentle nature, is beginning to be used more and more as a therapy dog. Both Boxer and Pitbull are also great with children , which makes them excellent family dogs. The Boxer is very patient and protective, while the Pitbull is solid, a people-pleaser and highly trainable. So mix them together and what have you got? A companionable, affectionate dog who fits in perfectly with a family, wants a lot of attention and gives in return. It is, of course, worth noting that as puppies they are going to be more hyper, and so their contact with children must be supervised. Also, your dog must be well-exercised to be around children, as if not she will be incredibly excitable and could knock over a small child. Her guard dog instinct is strong, which can be useful if there is an intruder or attacker. These are courageous dogs who used to risk their lives baiting bulls, so have no doubt that she will defend you and yours if necessary. If this instinct gets out of hand, however, it can become a problem. You must make sure that you socialize your Boxer Pitbull Mix from a young age with as many people as you can. Invite friends and neighbors to your home and provide her with a positive association by having the person give her a treat when they arrive. As long as you train her well and stay consistent, this dog will be the friendliest dog around. She might be too hands-on for older pets Providing they are both socialized properly, both breeds can get on well with other animals, particularly Boxers. As for play style, Pitbulls can be rough and Boxers like to use their front paws when playing much like a boxer… oh, that makes sense! People are also beginning to look past the negative stigma around Pitbulls and realize their high intelligence and trainability, too. Director of Operations at Universal K9 claims that out of the hundreds of dogs he has trained for police work, the Pitbull, Kiah, is one of the top three he has ever placed. These dogs can be stubborn, though, meaning that you need to be firm and consistent with them. As long as you are in charge, your Boxer Pitbull Mix should pick up basic commands quickly. Make sure you do enough repetition and provide rewards and lots of praise. As puppies, they are boisterous and energetic little characters. You will need to be assertive in order to get their focus. She is a moderate shedder Though these dogs have a short coat, they are moderate shedders and will require a good grooming session once a week. They will probably lose more fur in the Spring, from April through May, so it may be a good idea to brush her twice a week during these periods. She will also need her ears checked monthly, either at the vet or with a reputable groomer. She is usually healthy but has some potential health concerns The Pitbull Boxer Mix is generally a healthy breed, as both pure breeds are as long as she gets sufficient exercise, of course and as I mentioned in the intro it can live for up to 13 years. Having said that, it is always worth being informed on any potential health issues this breed can develop, so here are the main ones your dog could be prone to: Cancer While the majority of Boxers are healthy , they are at risk of an aggressive form of cancer called hemangiosarcoma , which occurs in the blood vessel cells. It can be difficult to detect, but signs can include weakness, a distended abdomen, difficulty breathing and weight loss. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, talk to your veterinarian as soon as possible, as this cancer can spread rapidly. Hip dysplasia This condition consists of a malformation of the hip joint, where it is unstable or loose in the socket. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals shows that this condition occurs in both breeds , although Pitbulls are more susceptible. Severe cases can lead to arthritic joints and lameness. Signs can include walking or running with an altered gait and reluctance to fully extend their rear legs or jump. Weight control helps enormously with this condition; keep her slim, as any excess weight will put stress on her joints. Heart disease The Boxer is prone to a heart problem called aortic stenosis , which in most cases of the disease the dog is born with. This disease causes narrowing of the aortic valve, which puts pressure on the heart. Symptoms can include rapid breathing or difficulty breathing, sudden loss of consciousness, and congestive heart failure. If your vet picks up a heart murmur, the diagnosis can be confirmed with an X-ray and a cardiac ultrasound. Allergies Pitbulls can have various allergies , so your Pitbull Boxer Mix may be susceptible. They can be treated with antihistamines, and in the case of skin irritation, you should use shampoos specifically designed for sensitive skin. Conclusion Are you a family with children without any older pets? Are you ready to dedicate your days to plenty of exercise and play with your new lively companion? Can you give her the consistent training she needs? If the answer is yes to all of the above, you are more than ready to own a Pitbull Boxer Mix, and she will be more than happy to have you. Have you got a Pitbull Boxer Mix and a story to share? Comment 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. Had her posted on the local shelter site but no takers. We have a year-old Chihuahua and 8-year-old Yorkie so keeping the new dog inside is not possible. For a temporary measure we put a cardboard box with lots of pillows and blankets warmed in the dryer on the porch swing. It has since warmed up into the range. She appears to be happy running around outside and sleeping on the porch swing near the now chewed up box. We have ordered a dog house for her and are having her spayed tomorrow. We are a late middle-aged couple but I hope to be able to walk with her at least once a day. I hope you can wish us well for rescuing her. Boxer pitbulls are one of the original crossbreeds. Boxers originated in Germany during the s and were useful in times of war. Known for their intelligence, boxers would deliver messages to the battlefield across long distances. On the other hand, American pit bull terriers were used for baiting animals like boars and bulls in blood sports. In the past, boxer pits were known as the Bullenbeisser by German breeders. Unfortunately, this specific version of the boxer pit went extinct many years ago. That said, similar practices are used to create the boxer pits that you see today. Boxer pitbulls are gorgeous dogs. Their fur is often straight and smooth but long enough to cause problems with shedding. A boxer pitbull also has big, wide dark eyes and straight, pointy ears. However, some ears may droop on boxer pitbull mixes. In many cases, the way they look depends on the breeder and the dogs involved in the breeding process. Other facial features include a short snout, long legs, and a broad chest. When it comes to color, pitbull boxers are usually light brown with patches of white. Some boxer pits may have more brown or a darker shade of brown that gives off a maroon appearance. What Size Is a Pitbull Boxer? Pitbull boxers are not the biggest dogs but are not the smallest breed either. The average boxer pit weighs between 50 and 80 pounds, so there is some variation there. Variation likely depends on the breeder and the dogs used for breeding. When it comes to height, boxer pits are not that tall. When standing on their hind legs, they may reach close to 50 inches. Boxer pits have short and smooth coats. Boxer pits are known for being loyal and intelligent. Boxer pitbulls are also good with other animals and children but only under the right conditions. Are Boxer Pitbulls Affectionate? Boxer pitbulls are affectionate dogs that are loyal to their owners. They want to play with you, spend time with you, and even cuddle up in your lap. Boxer pitbulls are also easy to play with. Running in the backyard is sufficient, but they are also great hiking companions. In fact, you can do most activities with a boxer pit. Boxer pitbulls are great with kids; they will play with most toddlers and teenagers without hurting them. Plus, children can wrestle around with them without them getting too aggressive. This makes boxer pitbulls great companions for both adults and children. That said, there is a catch. Boxer pits do have aggressive tendencies when not socialized properly. Furthermore, boxer pits may be too large to play with babies and toddlers because of their weight and strength. Boxer pitbulls are good with other animals. However, they are larger dogs, so make sure you watch how your animals interact closely for signs of aggression, injury, or danger. Are Boxer Pitbulls Aggressive? Socialized boxer pitbulls are not aggressive. Do Boxer Pitbulls Bark a Lot? Not all boxer pitbulls have the same traits, so some dogs may bark at cars as they pass your window. Ultimately, it depends on the traits the dog inherits from its parents. Are Boxer Pitbulls Intelligent? Pitbull boxers are intelligent dogs and respond well to most types of training. Boxer pitbulls are also smart enough to understand triggers for rewards and punishment. Are Boxer Pitbulls Easy to Train? Intelligence is a big factor when it comes to trainability. They respond well to reward-based training and positive feedback. Moreover, they enjoy pleasing their owners, which makes them easier to train. For example, punishment does not help them learn. Instead, it leads to the opposite and increases aggression. Another problem is that boxer pitbulls become overly excited sometimes. When this happens, they become more stubborn and harder to train. Luckily, the solution here is to just let them cool off for a few minutes. Are Boxer Pitbulls Energetic? Great activities to help your boxer pit expend energy include walking, hiking, running, and fetching. Of course, plenty of safe chew toys will help too. Boxer pitbulls can be good apartment dogs, but it depends on how much space you have. Smaller apartments will struggle to contain the energy of a boxer pitbull, which may result in damage and restlessness. Boxer pitbulls also benefit from time spent outdoors in backyards and parks. Are Boxer Pitbulls Good Watchdogs? Boxer pitbulls are good watchdogs. Boxer pitbulls also get defensive over their home or owners, so they may display aggression towards aggressors. Boxer pitbulls, like many other breeds, can be good service dogs. That said, boxer pitbulls are becoming increasingly popular as emotional support animals ESAs. How to Care for Boxer Pitbulls? Caring for a boxer pitbull is easy when you have enough space and free time. As for grooming and other types of maintenance, boxer pitbulls are low-maintenance dogs. Boxer pitbulls are low maintenance when it comes to grooming. To groom your pitbull boxer, give them a few baths every three months with mild dog shampoo. While that may seem like a big gap between a bath, over-grooming can lead to skin issues. Do Boxer Pitbulls Shed? Boxer pitbulls shed a minimal amount of fur throughout the year. Brushing them every two or three weeks is enough to maintain their coat and remove excess hair. What Should a Boxer Pitbull Eat? Boxer pitbulls need a diet full of nutrition because of their high energy levels. Some important specific ingredients to look for in dog food for a boxer pitbull are ground bones, fat healthy fats , and vegetables. However, you should consult your veterinarian on all diet matters first. Boxer pitbulls have a few common health issues. These health issues include: Hip dysplasia Hemangiosarcoma cancer Allergies Depending on the health issue, there are a few ways to prevent them. Hip dysplasia is challenging to prevent, but your best option is to watch them as they age and limit their activity. For example, limit sudden changes of direction and aggressive pulling. To prevent other issues like cancer, take your boxer pitbull to the vet often to check for heart murmurs and other risk factors. For allergies, vet checkups will help you get the appropriate treatments. Boxer pitbulls have an average lifespan of 10 to 14 years. Are Boxer Pitbulls Expensive? Boxer pitbulls are not expensive dogs — at least when you compare them to purebred dogs like Alaskan huskies or German shepherds. You may also find boxer pitbull for free at adoption centers and online. How to Find a Boxer Pitbull Breeder? How long have you been breeding boxer pitbulls? Are your boxer pitbull puppies socialized? When was the dog last vaccinated? Is there a guarantee of health? Can You Adopt a Boxer Pitbull? Yes, you can adopt a boxer pitbull, and the process is often easy. Are Boxer Pitbulls Purebred? Boxer pitbulls are not purebred dogs. A boxer pitbull is a mix between a boxer and a pitbull. Furthermore, boxer pitbulls respond well to training and can learn dozens of voice and hand commands. Boxer pitbulls also have a mild temperament when it comes to barking, which is great for new dog owners. Therefore, boxer pitbulls may be a blessing for dog owners who love their antics, but also possibly too much work for someone looking for a more low-key dog. Below we list traits you must love to enjoy a boxer pitbull: Affectionate and playful. The recipe features real meat, garden veggies, and fruit plus whole grains and LifeSource Bits rich in antioxidants. It also features ingredients that support healthy growth and development for a growing pup. Natural sources of chondroitin and glucosamine are the building blocks of healthy joints and cartilages ideal for mobility. It is packed in vitamins and minerals with antioxidant benefits for lifelong health and happiness. This kibble made for large breed adult dogs also features Iams DHA Gold to promote mental sharpness and alertness and also to encourage healthy cognitive ability. It is crafted with prebiotics for healthy digestion and strong defenses. Puppies and adult pooches have diametrically different nutritional needs, and senior canines require kibble that is gentle on their aged teeth and stomachs. We suggest you pick one of our recommendations for the best puppy food brands and the best senior dry dog food and see how your pup responds. Who knows? Given that your Pitbull Boxer is neither big nor small, they may like the taste of the best dry dog food for small dogs and the best large breed dry dog food alike, so you might want to offer them both kinds! Pitbull Boxer Mix Exercise Requirements The general advice for most dogs would be to train them while they are young. But in the case of your Pitbull Boxer cross, you have to very cautious. Puppies of large-breed origin that exerts too much energy from running or playing can cause injuries that may last his lifetime. For puppies, activities may be limited to regular short walks or play until it has reached a certain maturity, around one year up to 16 months. As it gets old, the daily exercise requirement will also change. For an adult Pitbull boxer, minutes of exercise should be adequate to maintain good health. It is a very energetic hybrid so they will thrive in a lively environment. An ideal home would mean lots of space to move around, inside or in the backyard. Some states enforce restrictions with regards to Pitbull mixes like your pitbull boxer, so you have to keep it on a leash while out exercising. Using a leash will also prevent them from running into or jumping into everyone they encounter. They are most happy walking around in the city or the Dog Park or even trudging in the mountains. Another essential thing to consider is the weather. During the rainy season, your dog will need a raincoat to protect her from the rain and also to keep her warm. Sunscreen can be used but avoid products with zinc oxide, as it is a poisonous substance. The jacket provides full chest coverage, and the solid print is stylishly chic. The elastic leg straps and adjustable fastener guarantees a snug band comfortable fit. It also features reflectorized stitching so you can see your dog even at night. It is guaranteed durable — it features a galvanized cable and coated with crack-resistant vinyl. It should be able to withstand up to 7x the weight of your dog. My Dog Nose It! Pitbull Boxer Cross Training The combination of Pitbull and Boxer is explosively stubborn, so it is a suitable pet for someone with a firm and unyielding grip in training and socialization. And as always, your dog will react and respond best with positive reinforcement, rewards, and incentives. Punishment will never work, and more often than not, will only create or aggravate behavioral problems. It is essential to reward your pet to encourage positive behavior. Early socialization and training from puppyhood will form the foundation of a well-adjusted dog. Training your Pitbull Boxer should be a piece of cake because of their ability to pick up commands. To get their focus though, you would need to be tough and establish yourself as the master and make him obey you. We listed some training activities you can try out with your petpal: Behavior Training — How do you train him to stop barking mad? Constant practice will help you achieve the desired effect but never shout at him even if he continues to bark. Also, allow him to learn commands other than barking. Keep in mind that the goal is to reward your pup for being silent. Chores Training — Teach him to fetch your newspaper for you. Playing fetch with a toy or a ball should prep your dog for this activity. All you have to do is replace the toy with the newspaper and tech your Pitbull boxer how to get it, pick it up or bring it back to you. Fun Training — Rollover is one activity designed with your big Boxer Pitbull in mind. Start with getting your dog to lie down, and eventually how to roll over. Make sure you reward each action accordingly, and of course, practice makes perfect. Pitbull Boxer Combination And Families The Pitbull Boxer will become accustomed to any family dynamic most especially when trained well and socialized correctly. Their energetic and sometimes rowdy nature can knock off small bodies, so be extra careful if you have kids. There are specific training designed to help you manage this kind of behavior. Check with your local authorities with regards to the legal status of Pitbull mixes in your area. Find out if your Boxer pitbull mix is banned or restricted. Not only will they thrive in large spaces to allow lots of movement, but they will also want owners who will dedicate their time to train and socialize and to love and care for them. Reach out to your vet for more information on a proper Bullboxer Pit care. Pitbull Boxer Mix Grooming And Shedding The most important factor is that these dogs are low shedding and low maintenance. They seldom require many products and it means getting trims on a daily basis is not needed. The Bullboxer Pit sheds moderately. Unreasonable shedding indicates some sort of a health issue. Use a brush and comb their loose hair. Bathing is recommended once in a fortnight or when suggested by your vet. A soft bristle brush or a curry comb is enough. Medicated shampoos are needed if skin disorders are present. If your dog consists of the wrinkles and facial folds of the Boxer, then examine the muzzle and face area on a regular basis. Prevent the growth of bacterial infestations, fungal, and red yeast due to drooling problems. These dogs need safe moisturizer and need attention to stop cracking and drying. Start this habit early as some hybrids can be stubborn about getting their feet touched. Brush their teeth once daily and provide them with dental treats. This will keep their gums strong. Clip their nails and clean their ears regularly. Hire a professional groomer if you are unsure of anything. The most crucial thing is that you should follow and adopt consistent training. Experts suggest early training for this breed because of obesity issues. They have the potential to become abnormal chewers. This need not adhere only to cushions, shoes, or anything including food. The Bullboxer Pit is a kind and loving dog when they are left with their family members and the same does not work with other strangers or animals. A properly socialized Bullboxer Pit will offer unconditional support to other pets. A brilliant watchdog, this dog is always active and alert. When a Bullboxer Pit senses a stranger close by, it will bark loudly to alert the owner. Pitbull Boxer Mix Exercise A pretty strong dog with a brilliant and strong physique which requires a complete lot of exercise, Bullboxer Pits is here to stay. They need exercise to maintain their health and form. This dog appears very alert and agile and seems to behave hyper. It might move around without your permission. The Bullboxer Pits are suitable for families with kids because of their affection, friendliness, and energy. For those who already lead a physically active lifestyle, then this Pitbull Boxer Mix is the right choice. These dogs are developed to be a strong dog with gameness and tenacity. This dog needs its daily dose of exercise. They love activities including agility training , flyball, swimming, jogs, and brisk walks. Experts normally do not suggest this large dog breed for apartment living. They can become obese if left unsupervised. Sticking to the feeding schedule can help stop that. If not given proper medical care, these pets can turn critically ill. Hip Dysplasia — This refers to a condition wherein the socket and ball joint of the hip is malformed. Cardiomyopathy — Cardiomyopathy is a condition which affects the heart. Sudden heart failure or fainting can occur. Some dogs can also develop congestive heart failure. Aortic stenosis — Aortic Stenosis is a disorder where the aortic valve reduces in size and this valve manages the blood flow to the important aorta ventricular Some of the minor health issues include Allergies — If you notice signs of allergies in your pet , do these things- Try dietary changes and nutraceuticals Ear cleaning Topical treatments and bathing Contact your vet Demodectic mange — This condition is caused due to an itchy, red skin infection. Demodex Canis mite lives ideally on dogs. Degenerative Myelopathy — A progressive disorder of the spine mostly found in older dogs. This disorder can lead to progressive paralysis also. Pitbull Boxer Mix Food These are big dogs and you can easily expect them to eat large quantities. In order to keep them strong and healthy, Bullboxer Pits are fed with the best quality dry food. Check the label for any preservatives or artificial flavors. If you find these ingredients in the dog food, put it back- Wheat Gluten.

Due to this, they develop a great level of bounciness and mischievous habits. It is quite commonly seen that the smaller breeds mature more quickly than the big dogs. They get pretty sensible at the age of 9 months old or so. Large dogs, like Labs, mature slowly and more effort is needed to calm them mentally and physically. High levels of activity will also keep your puppy fit and healthier. Labradors start to calm down around their first birthday. You can also help your pooch by using some effective dog handling techniques. For example, taking control of the pup, avoiding physical play, and creating a distraction by providing activities are some of the most common methods to deal with hyper or over-excited dogs. Other than that, calming music and medications are also quite popular. Stairs can be dangerous for dogs when you are not supervising them during the learning phase. In this case, it is better to not allow your dog to climb stairs. Invisibility and untidy stairs are other common reasons which make stairs dangerous for your dog. Climbing stairs in the dark can also result in severe injuries to your dog. Similarly, stairs that have water on them can also make your dog fall. Does your Labrador puppy nip? Labradors are always keen to explore and learn new things from a very young age. Going out is the basic need for Labradors because of their higher energy levels. It can also help them in quick learning, socializing, and training. They begin to go out in your backyard for potty training, exercise, playing, and learning at the age of 8 weeks. However, it is better to avoid public places with untidy stairs to protect them from potential injuries and infections. Labrador puppies love to be around stairs and it can be a great sleeping spot for them. What side Harness do you need to buy for your Labrador Puppy? Just as humans, pups also have milk teeth and they will lose them as they transition to adulthood. They start to lose their milk teeth from the age of 12 weeks. At the same time, the permanent teeth start popping up and at the age of months, permanent teeth take over all the milk teeth. Labrador puppies have 28 baby teeth or milk teeth which they will lose when they become mature around weeks old. They have a total of 42 permanent teeth that they will lose when they get old or have any medical emergencies. Falling from the stairs is one of the main reasons why dogs lose their permanent teeth. Labs love to climb stairs even at an early age and owners must take proper precautions to keep them safe. Otherwise, there are vulnerable to hard falls and might lose their permanent teeth. Some safety precautions make stairs safe for puppies. Proper Supervision It is recommended that the dog owners should give proper time to their Labrador puppies and keep an eye on them when they are learning to climb stairs. In this way, your dog will remain safe and learn to climb stairs more efficiently and effectively. Improve Visibility Installing lights around the stairs and turning them on especially when there is dark around them. This will improve visibility and help your pup to climb up the stairs quite easily. Keep the Stairs Clean Just like a human baby, a pup also requires a similar kind of care. This means keeping your house and its stairs clean will offer them no falling especially when they are learning to climb stairs. You can use pieces of rubber carpet and place them on the stairs as it will increase the resistance level. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please note: We are not veterinarians and you use our advice at your own discretion. We always recommend that you consult your veterinarian whenever you have health-related conditions your furbaby is facing. With that in mind, as pet parents ourselves, we wish nothing but the best for your pet and their healthy and happy lives. If you are letting your Labrador puppy climb up and down the stairs, pause it immediately. Yes, luckily, Labrador puppies can climb stairs at some specific age of their life. Even at the age of 4 to 5 months old, your Labrador puppy will be strong enough to climb stairs. They will navigate up and down without falling and asking for your help. However, allowing your young Labrador puppy to climb stairs is not recommended. As mentioned above, before the age of 12 months old, your puppy may harm itself by frequently climbing stairs. Can a Labrador puppy go up and downstairs? Puppies are curious about their environment. As a dog parent, you will always find your puppy exploring everywhere. This activity is actually not safe for your puppy, and the experts do not recommend it. If you are not willing to stop your puppy from climbing up and down stairs, you must provide the proper training. The chances of falling from stairs or dislocating a hip bone are less in a well-trained puppy than in others. Is going up and down stairs bad for dogs? Yes, it is bad for a puppy to go up and down stairs. It is highly recommended to stop your puppy from climbing up and down stairs if they do it frequently. When you are not supervising If you do not have enough time to supervise your puppy when learning to climb upstairs, you should not allow them to do this. In your absence, your puppy may fall and break its hip bone along with some other injuries. Safety precautions to make stairs safe for puppies Work on these tasks to make stairs safe for your puppy. Supervise your puppy Experts recommend that dog parents keep an eye on puppies when they are learning to climb up or downstairs. You can prevent your dog from falling and getting some serious injury. Also, you can notice if your puppy is climbing up properly or not. Improve the visibility Improving visibility is always a good approach when your puppy is climbing up the stairs. You can turn on the lights and open up the curtains so that all of the stairs will be clear for your puppy. Keep the stairs clean Keep your house and stairs clean so that your puppy will not fall when learning new skills. The surface should have a grip If you believe that the surface of stairs is too slippery and there are chances of your puppy falling, you should build up some grip. You can place pieces of rubber carpet to increase the level of resistance. Installation of dog ramp For outdoor stairs, you can consider installing a ramp. It may require some training to make your puppy confident enough to use the ramp. I live in an apartment that means I have to go up or down at least one half-flight of 9 stairs to get in or out, if I use the lift. If I don't use the lift, there are 18 stairs to go down or 27 to go up to get out. When we just had Willow and she was little, she got carried. When Shadow came along, DH and I carried one each. As they started getting heavier, though, they really disliked being carried by me. They were OK with J doing it, but I think I was too small and it just wasn't comfortable for them, and didn't feel safe, so they would wriggle. Obviously not safe when walking up or down stairs. So it was at that point that they started learning to negotiate the stairs themselves. Always slowly and, since there aren't any stairs in my apartment itself, it was only when going out on walks. I used the lift wherever possible to minimise the stairs - until Willow started to freak out about going in, and we had to go with the stairs again. Until she started freaking out about the slippery stairs when she had wet feet.We now 14 months always use the stairs except if I come in the front door and they have wet feet. In that case, we'd have to go down stairs to our apartment, but it's not safe for Willow because she turns into Bambi on ice, so we walk up 9 stairs and go down in the lift, which she, incidentally, now thinks is the best thing ever. If we come in through the garage, we're below our apartment and so the stairs are up, and she's fine with that, even with wet feet. In an ideal world, there would be no stairs until the growth plates have closed. Real life sometimes gets in the way, though, and you just have to do what is best, and safest, in the circumstances. If you have just got a new family Labrador pup, you obviously want what is best for it in terms of health, happiness, and lifespan. You are probably aware that Labradors, and various other larger breed dogs, can experience hip problems usually hip dysplasia as they get older. What age can Labradors climb stairs? Labradors should only start climbing stairs after 12 months of age, or when they become too heavy for you to carry them up and down yourself. You might wonder if there is anything that you can do to minimize the risk of this health affliction. If you live in a house with stairs, there is, in fact, something you can do to limit the risk of potential problems faced by your pup, now and in the future. Most people believe that 12 weeks is old enough, but due to the fact that a Labrador is still developing until after 12 months of age and the developing hips can be damaged by wear and tear from stair climbing, it is best to avoid it until after the first year of life. If you have been letting your Labrador pup climb up and down the stairs already, it is important to stop doing so immediately. Even if you have a fully grown Labrador, you can teach them now to stop using the stairs — for their health. The simple answer is that no, you should not. Studies have shown that puppies allowed to climb up and down stairs at an early age are more prone to developing hip dysplasia. For this reason, it makes sense to carry your pup up and down the stairs or limit their access to upstairs levels. You should also not encourage your Labrador to jump until it is fully grown and even then, some caution must be taken. It may seem like your Labrador puppy handles the stairs well, but that does not mean that there will not be resulting damage. Even though you might want your beloved pet with you all of the time — many of us do — it is just not worth the risk. Their hip joint, in particular, is quite susceptible to damage if too much pressure and weight are put on it during the development stages. Labradors tend to be quite heavy little puppies and the action of climbing stairs can cause extra strain on the hip joint itself. This can cause the ball and socket of the hip joint to fit incorrectly or develop in such a way that rubbing and grinding occur, instead of the smooth and sliding movement that the hip is initially designed for. This incorrect development and functionality is called hip dysplasia which will only get worse and more intense with time. By allowing a Labrador to continue to use the stairs, it can result in discomfort, followed by deterioration of the joint and finally even eventual loss of function of the actual joint. This could render your Labrador immobile or result in painful movement. In some Labradors, this has been seen at a fairly early age. Please read our article 14 Common Labrador Health Problems to learn more about hip dysplasia and other issues. The best policy to have when it comes to your Labrador using the stairs is to discourage it completely. Even though it has been mentioned that Labradors should not use the stairs until they are older than 12 months, even after that, stair use should be very limited. You should only allow your Lab very occasional stair use. The best training you can do is teaching your puppy not to use the stairs. You can train your puppy to not use the stairs by following these training tips: Get your own mindset right first, before you begin training. When you establish the stairs are a no-go zone, it is important to never let that rule slide and to ensure that every family member reinforces the rule and never slips up. Once you and everyone else is on board, training can begin. Create an effective deterrent on the stairs that will serve as a reminder to the pup that stairs are not allowed. You can use sticky shelf liner or tin foil placed on the first few stairs and the lead-up to the stairs. This will need to be repeated often. If your dog decides to push the boundaries and try the stairs even though you have indicated it is not to be done, you need to recall the pup and physically block the stairs with your body until he turns back and heads away or stops trying. If your dog listens and moves away from the stairs, you can provide a small treat or shower your dog with praise, so that he makes a positive connection with staying away from the stairs. How to Make Stairs Safe for Your Labrador Even with ongoing training, there may be times when your Labrador attempts to climb the stairs without you knowing. Making the stairs safe is important. You can affix non-slip strips to each stair to ensure that your dog does not slip down the stairs. This can result in serious injury. Of course, if you encounter your dog climbing the stairs, resist raising your voice, chasing her off, or scaring her. Startling your dog can result in a fall or tumble which can cause further injury and damage. It can also result in the dog causing other people to fall if on the stairs. The best way to make your stairs safe for your Labrador is to incorporate a stair gate to provide a physical barrier. A baby gate is popularly used, but there are also various pet gates available on the market. If you do not want your puppy to grow into a dog that behaves incorrectly on the stairs, you will need to teach the correct behavior from day 1. Sometimes family members fail in this area. Teach your Labrador to never climb the stairs but rather to sit at the bottom of the stairs and wait for you. Teach the Labrador that if they are to use the stairs, it is done slowly and carefully patience and impulse training is good for this. If you need to play a game of fetch, do it on the ground floor or outside. It is only natural for the dog to want to come to you when spoken to. Finally While most Labrador pups will want to run up and down the stairs with their human family members, it is important to take a mature and responsible approach to the situation. Allowing your Labrador pup to go up and down the stairs can result in painful and expensive hip dysplasia in the near future. There are plenty of other areas in the home and outside where you can interact and engage with your pets — rather leave the upper levels strictly for human occupation. Related articles:. There has to be a specific age when you want to allow it. Allowing it too soon can create problems of various types like accidents. This is the same as we handle our babies when they are starting to learn to walk. Just follow the same analogy and you should be ok. A point to note here is that every lab puppy is going to grow differently with age and it depends on so many other factors like diet and puppy training sessions. Can he pull up his legs to the height of each staircase? Is the width of the staircase enough for him to place all his four paws? On a lighter note, you have to become a puppy. The stairs you and everyone in your home can climb easily can look an uphill task for the Labrador puppy. Another important point worth considering here when answering this question about allowing him or not is how active the puppy is? If he too active and energetic then he will hurry and hurt himself. Initially, the Lab puppy needs to go slow about it If the puppy is showing too much energy and excitement about everything, then it is better to let him grow up and when he has started following what you say then you can allow him his quest slowly. Its caused due to generic reasons. Moving too much and playing for long hours will increase it by the day. I have read so many posts on Facebook groups related to Labrador and Golden retriever dogs which make this false statement of attracting the disease because of climbing stairs. So, in order to further validate this, I asked the question on online forums dedicated to retrievers both Labrador and Golden. The response is the same as I described above. All kinds of people with different experience levels replied to my questionnaire. So, I can say with confidence that you can trust what has been told in this article. I will share various responses that I heard: The Lab puppy can climb stairs depending upon his energy level. If you think he will be fine, you can give it a try under your supervision and then think about whether to continue or not. The age should be a minimum of 4 months old and there is no such danger of getting hip dysplasia disease by just climbing up. You should be more worried about him slipping down or falling down than anything else. For any kind of activity, the very first need is proper puppy training. This also is no exception. We cannot conclude anything for sure from the above sentence. What I would say in this case is that it is more of a natural phenomenon regarding hip structure than using stairs. The use of stairs by a puppy is not going to harm him as such unless he is unable to balance himself. If the puppy already has it, then only hip dysplasia is going to get worse. So, we can keep the concern about hip dysplasia aside and focus on any other issue that can occur when a puppy is using stairs. As with babies, the puppies also learn by falling and getting up so getting hurt again and again is the cause of concern. You can see a ton of videos on YouTube where the puppy is running at full speed because he is so excited. The above also applies to stairs. But the amount of risk is greater here due to the height of the stairs. For this reason, you want to let the puppy grow up, walk properly on its own, control his feet and still have him climb up under supervision. How to Introduce Labrador to Climbing Stairs While he is learning, you will want to have full control over him. You want him to listen to you for the next command and proceed accordingly. For this reason, I always recommend using a leash for this type of training. Let my heel on the first stair before taking the first stair-case. First, he needs to learn how to sit on the staircase and not fall off. Climbing is easy as he can do so in excitement to reach to the top. The initial motive should be to introduce him to the stairs so much that he knows everything about the stairs. If your commands go well with the puppy then he will wait for you and will listen to you. He has to learn to be patient. With patience, he will learn to control himself and go slow with the stairs during his initial climbs. The more control he has over his speed, the better it is. Treats are a good way to have him use stairs in the way you want him to. You can make him wait as much time as you want by using the treats and leash. Just place some treats on the stair-cases and he will automatically start to follow your command just like any other training session. I also recommend to use a clicker in this training so that the commands are fully understood to him. Just keep repeating the training sessions and soon he will good to go on his own. The height is the most crucial for him to not get scared of it so you can spend more time with him at the top of stairs to get him accustomed to the height of stairs in your home. Do go through these points and you would not be disappointed. You may be tempted to allow him to roam freely at a younger age of months because he is able to walk but stairs are a different story altogether. So, let him get mature and learn more about the world around himself. Joint pain is more of an issue than hip dysplasia. For healthy life in the future, he should not too much pressure on those joints when they are delicate in his early life. It is not just about the stairs, but jumping from other heights like Truck, Bed or Kitchen Shelf also poses similar issues. While most people will give a go-ahead at months of age, it would be great if you can hold jumping and climbing activities until a year. There are so many other things that can be taught to your puppy and these include crate training, manners, not biting you, not barking. I think those need more attention in his early life. But keep in mind that getting hip dysplasia from climbing and increasing the problem further are two different things. I have discussed it so many times above in the article. One of the parts of your home that has confounded your dog the most is the staircase. At what age can a Labrador puppy go up and down the stairs? The risk of allowing even a healthy dog on the stairs too early is that they could later develop hip dysplasia. White and tan labrador dog going down the stairs. What age is a Labrador puppy considered ready to ascend or descend a flight of household stairs? You should wait until your puppy is at least a year old. The Labrador breed reaches its full height somewhere between the nine and month mark. The dog will achieve its full weight at 18 months. Your Labrador by 12 months will be 22 to 25 inches tall and weigh between 64 and 77 pounds. Many dog owners will simply gate the stairs from both sides and carry their Labrador puppy up and down the stairs as needed. This proves to your dog that the stairs are no big deal. Many dogs develop anxiety around stairs, so the sooner you can introduce your Labrador puppy to stairs, the better. You might be able to prevent that anxiety. Even 20 pounds lighter than that, you might have qualms about carrying your once-small pup up and down the stairs. And rightfully so. If you take a tumble, both you and your dog can get hurt. Feel free to allow your Labrador to begin climbing up or down the stairs sooner than 12 months if carrying them is becoming too risky. That includes their bones, joints, ligaments, and more. At such a young age, could stair-climbing negatively affect your dog? If your Labrador puppy is under 12 weeks old, then yes. When a puppy is born, its hips are primarily cartilage. The cartilage later becomes bone, but it takes time for this to happen. For example, if your dog grows up smoothly without health complications, then their hips will develop as normal. However, if your Labrador begins climbing stairs too early, the ligaments that surround the cartilage hip balls could become damaged or torn. This prevents the hip ball from fitting in the socket as it should. Now, whenever your Labrador takes a step, the bones in the hips make contact, rubbing painfully. The socket rim degrades, and hip dysplasia develops. The condition is also hereditary, and with Labradors prone to hip dysplasia, developing the painful condition might, unfortunately, be inevitable. No matter what kind of stair anxiety your Labrador has, you can train them out of it, but it might take a while. All it takes is one slip on hard stairs or the family cat darting up the staircase and spooking them and your Labrador is taking a huge tumble down the stairs. Depending on the distance your dog fell and the severity of the fall, your Labrador puppy could suffer minor injuries or severe, even life-threatening ones. At the very least, your dog could sprain or break a bone. More serious issues include head injuries and spinal injuries. Death could even occur. Tips for Safe Stair Climbing for Labrador Puppies To wrap up, we want to share a slew of tips so that as soon as your Labrador puppy begins using stairs, they can be safe. Ideally, you should always supervise your puppy each time they ascend or descend the stairs. You might not even be home during the day. Keep in mind that these gates will only work when your Labrador is young. This should reduce the incentive to want to go up the stairs in the first place. Add Grippy Surfaces Do you have hardwood stairs? If your Labrador puppy is feeling rambunctious and takes one of the stairs wrong, they can easily slip and seriously hurt themselves. Otherwise, a set of non-slip rubber treads will majorly improve the safety of using the staircase. Always Keep the Stairs Clear The stairs are not a decorative part of your home once you have a dog. This is a tripping hazard for all members of the family, including your Labrador puppy! Light the Stairs Puppies lack more than stability, but good depth perception as well. By plugging in a nightlight in the hall that illuminates the stairs or leaving an overhead light on overnight, your Labrador puppy will find it easier to get up and down. Even at that point, you still want to promote supervised use of the stairs and use rubber grips if your staircase is uncarpeted. This way, you can prevent slips and falls and possible joint and hip damage that could lead to hip dysplasia! Related Reading:. Good puppy care to limit your chances. And for these joints to work properly, the ball part, which is the bulbous end at the top of the long thigh bone, must fit neatly into the socket, which is a part of the pelvis. If the hip joint is not perfectly formed, movement is impaired, and use of the joint causes damage to the surface of the bones arthritis making a bad situation even worse. In some cases this can progress rapidly and seriously. Hip dysplasia in dogs causes arthritis, pain, and lameness. It varies in severity depending on the degree of damage in the joint, and to some extent on the individual dog. Some cases can be adequately managed with pain relief and care. But many medium to large dogs will need expensive major surgery to restore normal movement and relieve pain. Causes of Hip Dysplasia in Dogs There are two main factors at work. The other factor is the environment that the dog grows up in, particularly in early life. How fast he grows, and the way his joints are used when he is still developing, can influence the way his joints will turn out. These environmental factors include diet , exercise , and hormones. But for all the dogs in-between, we do know that there may be much that you as a pet owner, can do, to ensure your dog has healthy hips Your opportunities to help There are two main opportunities for you to ensure your puppy is free from hip dysplasia The first opportunity begins before he is born. The second begins when you bring him home. If you have already bought your pup, there is nothing you can do about the first, so just skip down the page and read up on what you can do when you bring your puppy home. There are no exceptions. Breeders can then remove dogs with bad hips from their breeding programmes. It is of course utterly irresponsible to breed from untested dogs, but the tests are expensive, so bad breeders will try and avoid them. And because puppy registrations generate money, the Kennel Club will still register puppies without scores, or with really bad scores! Check those certificates It is vital that you check the health test certificates from both parents of any puppy you consider purchasing. Remember, Kennel Club registration will not protect your puppy from having parents with bad hips. This is completely untrue. And it is thought that there are three main ways that you can help. The first is by avoiding inappropriate exercise, the second is by feeding for an appropriate rate of growth, and the third is a little more controversial as it involves delaying neutering until your dog is mature. Playing in the garden is sufficient for pups under five months old. If you take your puppy out on a leash , a rule of thumb often mentioned is no more than five minutes walking per day, for each month of his age. So that means a maximum of 25 minutes for a 5 month old puppy. This is just a guideline, to help those who are not sure how to exercise a puppy. Avoiding steps and stairs One study has shown that puppies climbing stairs at an early age were more likely to develop hip dysplasia. So it is a sensible precaution to carry your small puppy up and down steps. Diet and growth Everyone wants their puppy to grow big and strong. But optimal growth does not mean rapid growth. It is now thought that slower growth probably allows for healthier hip development. Make sure you keep your puppy slim, with a waist, and you should be fine. You can check out our feeding your puppy article for more information. In fact recent evidence has shown that neutering is implicated in a number of health problems, and hip dysplasia is one of them. A recent study of golden retrievers for example, found that the incidence of hip dysplasia in male dogs neutered early, was double that of male dogs left intact. If you want to neuter your dog, waiting until he is physically mature may reduce the impact of hormone loss on his joint development. You can read more about the pros and cons of neutering in this article: should I have my Labrador castrated? Preferably before you have a gorgeous puppy sitting in your lap and gazing into your eyes! Once you bring your puppy home, give him time to grow and mature naturally. There will be time enough for that later. Spread the word Tell everyone you know about the importance of hip scores. We need to ensure that there is no market for puppies for untested parents. Your decisions now in this respect have the power to help many puppies now and in the future. I watched this terrible disease slow down an amazing Black Lab named Tucker. He was a great dog, but at only 6 years old, he had to be put down because he was in such tremendous pain. Why do I bring up hip dysplasia in an article about Labrador puppies and stairs? Well, people often threaten that if you let your puppy climb stairs too early, she will get hip dysplasia. So, when can Labrador puppies climb stairs? Labrador puppies can climb stairs around 4 or 5 months old. At this age, the puppies are old enough to safely navigate them without falling. Going up and down stairs at this age will not cause hip dysplasia. Climbing stairs too soon, however, can exacerbate the condition if it is already there. It is a popular misconception that climbing stairs too soon can give Labrador Retriever puppies hip dysplasia. I know that I am going against the grain here, and if you disagree with me then please let me know in the comments below. Especially if you have some scientific study by qualified veterinary researchers. Until then, I think am going to be the one voice of reason in the Labrador blogosphere. Letting your puppies go up and down the stairs will not give your puppy hip dysplasia. Like my vet said, it is a genetic disease. If your puppy can develop hip dysplasia from climbing stairs too soon, then why waste the money on hip checks for the parents? When should Labrador puppies be introduced to the stairs? That can be problematic. There is clearly a time and a place for a puppy to start climbing and descending. Is he big enough to climb the stairs? Notice how much bigger the riser looks from that point of view. Will he be patient enough to take the stairs slowly? You can let your Lab puppy go up and down the stairs when they are big enough and mature enough to follow your lead and go slow! Exercise will exacerbate an already existing condition. If you own a Labrador or Golden Retriever, you should know enough about the disease to avoid the wives tales that swirl around the Retriever circles. You can check out my article on things that will cause and exacerbate hip dysplasia so that you can take care of your canine buddies. These are people with all kinds of experience in the waterfowl and AKC world. The majority of the responses all fell in line with Dr. I specifically asked about a 4 month old Labrador puppy. He can do steps as long as its not a large amount of steps. Also try to keep the pup from jumping up or down from anything. That is the age we got our gal acclimated with stairs! Spend time with him. Mine was crawling up and down on his belly at three months. Then running up and down them. Needs you there with him to coach him. There was one interesting comment that mentioned hips. However, climbing stairs at a young age can make hip dysplasia worse if the puppy already has it. How are stairs dangerous for Lab puppies? Okay, so hip dysplasia is not going to be an issue unless your dog already has it. That is not, however, the only concern when it comes to stairs. It is not uncommon for puppies to take serious falls down the stairs. The problem is that I have never met a Labrador puppy that did not want to run at everything mph and only when he is already in the air wonder if it was a good idea. My dog, Odin, is like that. He will come in the house full speed, only to realize that he cannot stop on the tile and go crashing into the wall or the island in the kitchen. That is why I think that a certain maturity level will determine the right time for Labrador puppies to start climbing stairs. How to teach a Lab puppy to climb the stairs I think the best approach in this situation is to teach your puppy to behave on the leash. Then, when you approach the stairs make him sit down at the bottom of the stairs. You can actually get your puppy accustomed to sitting at the top and bottom of any stairs. If you condition him, you pup will wait for your to either command him to proceed or wait for you to start to up or down them before proceeding. Insist that your puppy sit at the top and bottom of stairs and then wait for your command. The porch steps are a great place to practice because there is less chance your pup will hurt himself. The idea is to get your puppy to climb or descend the stairs at a controlled pace. Ideally, he will stay at heel while going up or down the stairs. To get your puppy to sit at the top or bottom of any stairs, put him on a leash and get a handful of treats. Walk your puppy to the edge of the stairs and command SIT. As soon as his bottom hits the floor, give him a treat or fire off the clicker. Repeat this several times. If your retriever looks at you inquisitively, just wait. He will likely stare at you for a moment and then, eventually sit down. As soon as he sits down, you give him the treat. Now, repeat this silent approach several times. Keep in mind, you might have to repeat this process at the top of the stairs just to make sure your pup understands that the expectation is the same at the top and the bottom. This goes for Golden Retrievers, Labradors and other big breed pups. While slowly going up and down stairs is not a problem for most Labs at 4 months old remember they need to be big enough and mature enough , you should not let them jump down from large heights. Jumping out the truck, for example, will not cause hip dysplasia but can still cause joint problems for your puppy. This can lead to joint pain later on in life and possible surgeries to fix the damage. The same can be said for jumping off a tall porch or launching himself from the last three stairs. Most dog sports like agility courses or dock jumping actually require dogs to be one-year-old before they let them participate. Stronger joints will endure the stress of constant jumping better than developing, immature ones. What about the scientific research that supports the misconception? There are some studies that are used to support the idea that climbing stairs too soon leads to hip dysplasia. However, there is an important difference between causes HP and just being correlated with it. These studies all show a correlation, but not causation. It should not surprise you that science is confused.

Related post: How to tell if your German Shepherd loves you How to get your German Shepherd to listen to you There are a number of things that you can do to get your German Shepherd to start paying attention to you that I will mention below. Exercise The first thing that you can do is to give it lots of exercise and attention. An easy way to give your German Shepherd lots of exercise is to teach it to play fetch. By doing so you will be able to get your German Shepherd to do a lot of running over a short time frame. Training If you want your German Shepherd to listen to you then it will be necessary for you to give it lots of training. One training exercise that you will need to do is to teach it to stay while being distracted. To do this you will first need to teach it to sit. Repeat that process each time increasing the duration that you require it to keep its focus on you. Start by just showing it the toy and then gradually make it harder for it to lose focus by rolling and waving the toy around. By exercising it you will be able to make it less hyperactive and more responsive to you. Related questions Why does my German Shepherd not listen to me outside? To deal with this you should train it in a variety of situations. Watch the above video to see how. Why does my German Shepherd not listen to me on walks? If you want a happy and obedient German Shepherd, this is one of the best online dog training programs available right now. You can get the first month free using This link. You know your German Shepherd is one of the smartest breeds. You know they can listen to you when they want, but… Sometimes they become distracted or just downright ignore you. But, there are many reasons why. The first thing you need to remember is you need to be able to communicate effectively with your dog. This is the number one way to practice proper listening skills and obedience. Your dog will often learn to simply tune you out if you persist in poor communication skills. Maybe you call their name over and over… And you keep calling their name and expect them to come. Instead, call their name and try luring them with a tasty treat, toy, or even by slapping your leg. Or, go to them and get their attention with the toy or treat. German Shepherds are adept at reading body language and are more prone to listen when you have a reward at hand. This is where using positive reinforcement comes in! Using Positive Reinforcement Play, praise, and food treats are all positive rewards. Positive reinforcement teaches your dog that good behavior, such as listening to you and paying attention, get them good things. Like a squeaky toy you play with them or even a tasty bit of chicken. These types of punishment cause your dog stress and will prevent you from training them effectively. If your training becomes so stressful you want to hurt your dog, step away from your training and call a dog trainer in to help you. Teaching your GSD to listen to you can begin at any age — from a rambunctious puppy to an aging senior. German shepherds are intelligent dogs and are willing to work with the right motivation and rewards. Learn What Motivates Your German Shepherd to Pay Attention In order to have the most effective communication with your dog, begin by finding out what motivates your dog. But it can also be another thing they find rewarding, like a favorite toy such as a ball or tug rope. Most importantly, make sure these rewards are high in value to them. This means your dog would practically sell his soul to get them! Only use them for training your dog to listen. The same goes for the treats. Make these treats so special that your dog knows you mean business when you get them out for your training. What are good rewards for a German Shepherd? Always keep a stash of motivational rewards on hand for your training to motivate your dog to listen to you and pay attention. Your dog is sure to love one of these healthy, highly scented training treats for German Shepherds. Or even praise through your words and pets. And always be sure to account for the extra calories your dog eats during training so you can reduce their regular meals a bit. Capture Their Attention Another dog training technique to get their attention is using the capture method to train your German Shepherd to listen. Use these techniques to get a German Shepherd to pay attention to you. STEP 1 Keep your special reward treat in your pocket or a treat pouch so they are quick to offer. Now, watch what your dog is doing around the house on its normal day. STEP 2 This method is all about catching your dog at the exact moment when their focus is on you. STEP 3 When they turn to look at you, use a verbal command when you see the behavior to mark it. .STEP 4 Reward right away after the verbal command when they are looking at you. This teaches them to look back to you whenever the cue word is used. STEP 5 Catching when your dog looks at you requires ninja-like reflexes, as they look quickly and you must time your cue word to their looking at you. Quickly mark the behavior with your verbal command and immediately reward them. Over time, your dog should respond to the cue word to look at you and listen. Train Them to Focus on You Training your German Shepherd to focus on you takes a bit of patience, but pays off in the end. Follow these steps to train them to focus on you. STEP 1 Pick a special, high-value treat and start in a quiet area of your home. STEP 2 Hold the treat where your German shepherd can see it in your hand, but out of reach of your dog. They will probably only look at your eyes for a split second at first, so be prepared to say your command cue exactly as they look at your eyes. STEP 5 Reward your dog with the treat as soon as they look at you. STEP 6 Repeat this scenario a few times a day, always with their super special treat in hand. Work up to your German Shepherd looking into your eyes in increasing times, such as 2-seconds, then 3-seconds, and so on in order for them to earn their reward. This approach is from a renowned animal behaviorist, Kathy Sdao , explained in her book Plenty in Life is Free. STEP 1 Gather 50 very small pieces of training treat at the beginning of each morning. Make sure they are healthy and broken into very tiny pieces since you have so many and keep them in your pocket or a treat bag. STEP 2 Watch for times during the day when your dog is behaving appropriately. This is the core of the program. STEP 5 Continue to look for good behaviors you want your dog to repeat throughout the day. Work through the 50 tiny treats. And, even if they do you might prefer to use a toy instead of a food motivator occasionally to keep training interesting and fun for both you and your dog. STEP 1 Pick a toy that is only used for this special training game so they focus on your cues more easily. Some toys that your dog may love are toys that squeak, crinkle, make noises of other kinds, or smells interesting. STEP 2 Now, act energetically by jumping up and down, making unique noises, or slapping your hand against your leg. STEP 3 As your dog looks to you, begin to run away. German Shepherds have a high prey drive and love to chase. So, running in the opposite direction convinces your GSD to chase after you, especially if you have their favorite toy in your hand. STEP 4 Now, reward your dog with their special toy when they catch up to you. Toss their toy for them and enjoy a bit of playtime with them. Keep the energy upbeat and positive. The playtime with the toy is the reward instead of a food treat and encourages your dog to stay near you. STEP 5 Continue to play the catch-reward-play game throughout the day. Your German Shepherd will begin to form the habit of paying attention to you when you are consistent in your training and in your rewards. Use these techniques to get your German Shepherd to listen to you in different situations and places. STEP 1 When working on new commands begin indoors in a quiet, distraction-free area — like a bedroom. Try a kitchen or living area when the TV is on. STEP 3 Now add in more distractions. Have your family or friends around while you ask your dog to perform the command. For example, move back to the quiet bedroom if the TV on in the living room distracts them. STEP 5 Once your German Shepherd has mastered listening to you indoors, begin training in your backyard or front yard Make sure your dog is on a long line for safety and easy recall. Whether you have a puppy or an adult, you can train your German Shepherd to listen to you with the right steps. With highly intelligent dogs like the German Sheperd, remember they can sometimes become bored or turn their attention to something else entirely as they lose interest in you. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Use Positive Reinforcement Techniques Positive reinforcement, also known as rewards-based training, implies giving a reward to increase the frequency of the response. Rewards can be: Treats. Choose healthy treats, pieces of kibble, or tiny pieces of meat. Physical attention. You can pet behind the ears or give a hug. Verbal praise. Give your GSD his favorite toy that you save for rewards. Rewarding your German Shepherd for good behavior is an underrated tool in your dog-training arsenal. It is simple yet incredibly powerful. Unfortunately, it is also often ignored. If you scold him, he might feel content for having received your attention. This speaks to the importance of patience; the more patient you are, the more your German Shepherd values positive attention. When you bestow it upon him during his calmer episodes, he starts recreating the setting. You will notice him sitting in the same place where you patted him or held a similar position. It might be tempting to pet him then, but you have to be patient, or you will confuse the dog. Wait until he mimics the actual calmness you want to reward, then use reinforcement by giving him attention, affection, and treats. Increase Socialization If you have previously delayed socializing your German Shepherd, the chances are that the lack of socialization is a key contributor to his disobedience. You should socialize a German Shepherd at 8 weeks old, which is usually when you bring your puppy home. Your breeder would have already begun early socialization from 3 weeks, so you should now continue the process of exposing your pup to a range of sights, smells, sounds, and interactions with people and other dogs. No matter whether your doggo is a pup or an adult, increasing socialization will set your German Shepherd on the right path to becoming a confident, friendly and obedient dog. I have a great article on how to socialize a German Shepherd from pup to adult. This details easy ways to go about this and includes how to socialize an older dog or even an aggressive German Shepherd. When your German Shepherd has pent-up energy, he might not be in the state to receive commands. By sufficiently draining this excess energy safely and productively, you can make your German Shepherd more receptive and less stubborn. In this state, you can reinforce restraint-centric anchors. That said, you must not wait until the dog is in his most agitated state before you take him out, as that would associate acting up with freedom, and he will almost always act out to be taken for walks or playtimes. Instead, prevent it in the first place. If you have a young pup and need some ideas, you can check out this article, 7 Fun Ways to Exercise a German Shepherd Puppy. German Shepherds are high-energy dogs, and adults need at least hours of daily exercise. In addition to essential exercise for your German Shepherds to stay obedient, he also needs to be mentally stimulated, which brings me to the next solution. Provide Varied Mentally Stimulating and Fun Games We have to remember the original purpose of the German Shepherd, which was to herd and protect livestock. Although rarely used in this capacity nowadays, the genetic working trait remains with the breed. They need a job to do and thrive off pleasing their owner, which is why they are used in law enforcement, search and rescue, and as service dogs today. Every evening around 8 pm, my German Shepherd will sit in front of me and give me the stare! I love this toy, and dogs enjoy finding the treats in the puzzle toy, which keeps them busy for ages. This best-seller gets a crazy amount of good reviews and is widely recommended by almost 60, dog lovers, so it must have something about it. Increase Training Sessions Similar to socialization, if you have previously delayed training your German Shepherd or if training is incomplete, the chances are that the lack of training is a pivotal contributor to his disobedience. Not only does your German Shepherd need to learn that he should listen to you, but he must also find out what listening to you entails. While the best time to start training your GSD is at 8 weeks old , the next best time is now. This will keep your dog continually focused and interested. Your German Shepherd must also learn his position. This entails going back to training in a distraction-free setting. He might not intend to ignore you deliberately, so this is where you need to get him to focus his attention on you. Manage the environment when progressing outside. Start off with not too many distractions. Use high level treats when outside. Check out this excellent video on how to train a German Shepherd with distractions. This gorgeous pup is only 5 months old and is learning to focus on the trainer in a controlled outside environment. Chewing has several functions, including providing pain relief for teething pups, keeping teeth clean and jaws strong in older dogs, and relieving boredom. Dogs just enjoy chewing. But what if the chewing becomes destructive? Providing your dog with a chewing outlet, such as various interesting chew toys, will stop many German Shepherd behavior problems. The happier your doggo is, the less stubborn he will be when it comes to obeying you. Choose something like the KONG variety of chew toys. Follow a Training and Feeding Schedule Having a schedule provides structure and discipline and teaches your pup that you are the leader. Your German Shepherd will soon pick things up and catch up. You should also stick to a feeding schedule. Dogs are creatures of habit, and providing meals at expected times means listening and obeying you when you call them to eat. German Shepherds are prone to sensitive stomachs, and many are not food motivated, unlike the Labrador. Having a feeding schedule also prevents your German Shepherd from becoming a fussy eater. It might be that he wants that extra treat or wants to climb on the couch. So now the tide is turned. Instead of your dog ignoring you, you now ignore your dog. Never bow down pardon the pun to any form of demanding behavior, especially demand barking. This will only teach your best friend that he gets what he wants when he barks for something. Instead, ignore the demand barking, and at the precise moment he becomes quiet, quickly reward him with a treat. That way, he will soon learn that when he stops barking at you, nice things will happen. The trick here is in the timing. Use Brief and Effective Time-Outs When training a stubborn German Shepherd, one of the most crucial steps is teaching your dog to accept time-outs. Rewarding your doggo with treats is easy; it is in discipline or punishment where most people mess up. You need to teach your German Shepherd to follow your commands — or ground himself. So, what do I mean by a time-out? A time-out is a type of negative punishment in which we deprive the dog of what they enjoy, in this case, social engagement. Use an area of the house, a room with a dog gate, or an exercise pen for young pups. Time-outs should be around 60 seconds for young puppies to minutes for older dogs. Use the time-out at the moment of the stubborn behavior, not after. But not only does regular brushing help to control and reduce shedding , but it also helps to increase bonding between you and your pet. Most dogs enjoy being the center of attention. Brushing is relaxing and beneficial to the skin and hair. Your German Shepherd will also learn that it is acceptable to handle his body and feet, and you will develop trust with your canine buddy as a result. This has the everlasting effect of reducing his stubbornness when you need to clip his nails or he needs to be handled by the vet. Go here to find out the best grooming tools for German Shepherds and the ones I use. This will give you peace of mind that he will respond to you positively and help curb any bad habits. Often, inexperienced owners just need to be taught what to do. Attending obedience classes solves this knowledge gap and creates an opportunity to increase socialization, so you kill two birds with one stone. You can also enlist the help of a professional trainer as they will be experienced in training stubborn dogs and improving obedience. Key Takeaways German Shepherds are socially intelligent dogs. However, with delayed or insufficient training and a lack of guidance, they can become asocial and disobedient. Fortunately, with enough patience, firmness, and positive reinforcement training alongside increased exercise time and stimulation, any German Shepherd can be brought back into the socially acceptable circle of obedient dogs. Related Posts You May Like:. This is a common problem with GSD owners as this breed of dogs is very dominant. We all know German Shepherds as guarding dogs we see with police forces. Of course, these dogs are extremely intelligent, and if trained well , they will learn anything. Disobedience is when your GSD purposely ignores your commands. GSDs are extremely powerful and governing. If they are not trained properly in their initial days, they will have issues when you try to become a leader. These hierarchical issues become a huge problem for both the dog and the owner and ruin the dog-owner relationship completely. When your GSD starts to exhibit disobedient behavior, act immediately. Letting the dog misbehave is not going to turn things around. So, if your dog is getting out of hands and establishing itself as the authority, stop it right there. Due to their nature, they tend to become dominant, but it is the responsibility of the owner to bring it back on track. There are simple ways with the help of which GSD owners can re-establish themselves as the authority. Never let your dog leave the house before you. Always eat 30 minutes before your dog so that it knows that you are the alpha. Do not let your dog enter every area of the home and limit its area. Do not let your dog jump on sofas, bed, and furniture because this behavior can make your dog feel like the boss of the home. If your GSD wants to play and grabs a cushion in its mouth and comes to you, do not start playing immediately. It might be intimidating but giving attention to the dog on its will is going to make it feel like an alpha. If nothing works and your German Shepherd is showing signs of bad behavior, follow an obedience training process. This type of training is especially very beneficial for GSDs. It will not only disobey you, but it will also ignore your commands. Make sure that the training sessions are no longer than a few minutes as it will become frustrating for your GSD. Once your dog feels bored, it will get distracted and not listen to your commands and instructions. Making the Disobedient Behavior Stop! How will you make it listen to you? Many times GSD owners who are facing disobedience problems with their dogs adopt a wrong approach that instead of putting them back on track worsens them further. The key in this type of situation is to act in a way that your dog would understand. Hence, they rank every member of the pack according to their behavior and itself as the pack leader. When you let your dog dominate, it will start to ignore your commands because it has established itself as the leader of the pack. However, if you fail to establish your position as an alpha, your GSD will start to ignore your commands. To avoid this kind of behavior, a GSD owner should react immediately. Stop it right away or give it a little tap on its head to tell it that you are still the boss. For Example: If you take your GSD for a walk in the park, and it is playing with other dogs while you walk. You are at a distance and want your dog to come to you. This is a crucial thing that owners should understand with an open mind. When your dog is playing with other dogs, it is actually having fun. However, when you call its name and order it to come to you, it will have to decide between stopping the play and coming to you OR ignoring you completely. Of course, it is fun to play, and your dog is enjoying its time. So, why do you think it would listen to you? In situations like these, when your dog purposely ignores your instructions, you need to act immediately. You can: Go to your dog and pull its collar so that it understands that you are asking it to stop. Speak in a low but authoritative voice to tell the dog that you are serious, and this attitude cannot be tolerated. The best way to make your dog learn to behave is to train it with a lead on. If you let the dog be on its own, it will feel that it can do whatever it wants to. However, having a leash on until your dog is not fully trained, you are giving it a message that you are in control of its actions. It is Time to get Disciplined! German Shepherds are highly confident dogs. This means that they will not like anyone else interfering in their business. If you are facing troubles training your dog to obey you, sign up with us and follow the tips on our site. Last Updated on September 5, by Post navigation. It can also help keep you sane by helping you manage problem behaviors. Here are a few problems you may be encountering. So remember to practice first exercise, then discipline, and then affection. Sit down as a family and discuss the rules, boundaries, and limitations you want to set for your dog. It can be helpful to write them down and display them somewhere prominent. Master Your Energy Dogs listen to their pack leaders, and you can only be that leader if you are displaying calm-assertive energy. Have a friend observe your behavior and give you feedback — or even film it so you can see for yourself. Go Back to Basics Does your dog truly know the command? It can take hundreds or even thousands of repetitions for some dogs to learn a new skill. Practice makes perfect. You may need to focus on training again to ensure your dog really has it down. If your dog is listening to you, consider what may have changed about your physical presence. Are you holding a baby? Are you sitting down? Are you looking away? Small changes like these may be impacting your ability to fully communicate your message like you normally would. You have to deal with the underlying issue before you can get your dog to really listen to you. If you continue to have problems, consider hiring a professional to help. Communication between you and your dog is important for both of you and worth the investment of your time and energy. Only by learning how dogs communicate you will be able to fulfill your role as Pack Leader. Order yours now. Does your dog ever not pay attention to you, or do you have a method of getting his attention that always works? 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What Is a Sable German Shepherd? Many people ask about mostly black and reds and do not have too much information on the Sable color German Shepherd Sable German Shepherd is known as the classic German Shepherd, a true German Shepherd color. The sable German Shepherd has always been acknowledged as the quintessential dog because it has a DNA similar to that of a wolf. It also has the dominant gene in the German Shepherd family. The sable is the only color that matches the dog perceived as the first Shepherd dog. The dog can be red or tan with black tips or have black hair over its entire body. Sable German Shepherds are known as one of the smartest family dogs ever. Not just their Sable coat color makes them stand out, but they look adorable and charming as well. Their color is similar to that of a wolf, which helps people to identify them in one go. You can easily see a Sable German Shepherd in the streets of America. After quite a thorough research about this dog breed, we could see that a significant reason for their similar appearance to a wolf is their genetic similarity. Often accompanying police and other officials who do protective work, the DDR German Shepherd is an agile, athletic, and able dog that is willing to go the distance for his owner. Fiercely devoted, highly courageous, and extremely intelligent, the DDR German Shepherd makes an excellent pet for folks looking for a loyal, loving, and protective companion. DDR German Shepherd are best suited for experienced owners. This dog would not fair well with a novice owner. Moreover, if you do not have the time to invest in sufficient training, socializing, and exercising this breed, the DDR German Shepherd is not the right pooch for you. With breeding regulations being more lenient worldwide, it is possible for you to end up with a dog with different and diluted characteristics to the original line. Puppies sold by bad breeders, including puppy mills and backyard breeders, can be brimming with behavioral and health problems. The new bloodline would be able to withstand frigid winter temperatures and excel in military and police work. Many dogs were even abandoned or put down. Some dogs were sold to breed-type enthusiasts to preserve the bloodline. This makes him great for search and rescue missions. DDR German Shepherds can withstand all types of weather conditions and easily traverse most types of terrain, helping them effortlessly locate people who are trapped in rubble after a disaster. If you properly socialize your dog from a young age, he will be a protective and playful playmate for your tots. A highly intelligent dog, the DDR German Shepherd can easily learn basic commands and complicated tricks. Reward-based training methods word best for this breed. Always offer your pet high-value treats and plenty of praise when he does what you ask of him. Although these dogs look different to other German Shepherds GSD , they carry the same traits and characteristics as other variations of the German Shepherd breed and are known to be very loyal. These dogs are bred to produce the perfect working dog and German Shepherd dogs have gone on to have careers in the military, the police force and as other service dogs. They were first discovered by Von Stephanitz who spotted the German Shepherd at a dog show and decided that this breed was the perfect standard for a working dog. Horand was the first breed standard for the German Shepherd breed and was bred alongside dogs with a similar appearance to give German Shepherd litters. They are thought to have first appeared in the United States in and were recognized by the AKC in .Sable German Shepherds are, however, often more rare than other colors of German Shepherds, which can make them more expensive as puppies. The litter size for these pups will normally be 5 and 9 puppies. These dogs have a domed shape head with a long, square muzzle. They have erect ears and long necks, which sit low when running or prowling. They are a very strong breed and often are said to resemble their wolf ancestors. Coat German Shepherds will have one of two coats, either a medium coat or long coat. They are both double coats, having a more dense guard layer with a softer undercoat which helps to keep them warm when they are out as working dogs. These dogs are known to shed so they may not be the doggie for those with allergies. However, a proper grooming regime, which we will go into more detail about below, is important to reduce the amount of shedding and the amount of cleaning up! Color The sable color of the German Shepherd means that almost all their hairs will have a black tip to them, while the rest of the hair can be a different color. Normally this other color is tan, but there are a range of colors that the GSD can come in. These include white, parti, blue, liver, red and gold. They are extremely loyal and very family orientated. Because they are a working dog, they will believe that their job is to protect you as a family and are known for being alert and watchful, sometimes barking if they feel like they are in danger. Although socialization is important for a dog at any age, proper socialization for a German Shepherd will ensure they can interact with the family properly. Socialization is also important around young people. These dogs are very playful and active and love to be outside getting physical exercise. They also need a lot of mental stimulation as they are very intelligent and do not like to be left alone. If they are left alone for long periods of time they can become bored and begin to exhibit destructive behaviors, so it is important they spend most of their time with people or they are trained correctly to understand what behaviors are desirable. Lifespan The Sable German Shepherd has an average life expectancy of between 9 to 13 years. Many of the problems they are more likely to develop are the same problems that other breeds of German Shepherd deal with. The most common health problem for the German Shepherd dog breed is elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. Dysplasia is a condition that is seen in many large dogs and is a disease of a malformation of the joints. The joints can become very painful and may worsen over time causing lameness. The best way to ensure your pup is less prone to any of these conditions is to buy from a reputable breeder and to ensure you get health clearances from both parents. You should also check your dog often for any signs of these issues and take them to the vet regularly for checkups. Daily Life Now we know all about the traits and characteristics of the Sable German Shepherd, it is time to take a look at what living with one of these dogs on a day to day basis is really like. We will cover their food and diet, their exercise requirements and their grooming needs. It is recommended that you feed them a diet specially formulated for large dog breeds and you should always check the back of the dog food packet to see how much food you should be feeding your doggie based on their weight. Experts recommend that a Sable German Shepherd should be eating 20 calories per lb of body weight a day, which may come to around calories. This is around 3 cups of food. As a puppy, they should be fed three to four times a day. This is particularly important in the larger breeds as they are most predisposed to bloat, where the stomach becomes bloated and twisted and is usually fatal. These three to four meals can then be decreased to two meals a day as an adult. However, if you have a busy lifestyle then this can just be one meal a day. Their food should be healthy and nutritious. It should cover all the nutrients that a dog of this size needs, including proteins, fats and carbohydrates. High-quality dry kibble is a great option, although some dog owners opt to feed their pup raw food. Take a look at the food we recommend below. Lifespan Sociability German Shepherds have long been the first choice as working and service dogs because they are highly devoted, loyal, and courageous animals. They are generally easy to train by experienced owners but need a firm hand and consistent routine to train successfully. While this is possible for novice owners, they will present more of a challenge than some other breeds. Before buying a German Shepherd, you need to take into consideration the massive responsibility of owning one of these animals. They are highly protective of their owners, which can lead to aggressive and territorial behavior at times, and they have a powerful prey drive. These dogs were bred for and have long been a working breed and do best with a specific job to do. It will take a great deal of time, patience, and dedication to look after a dog of this caliber, so you need to understand that a German Shepherd is not the kind of dog that can be left at home alone for long periods. This will quickly lead to destructive and even aggressive behavior. With the power and working history of this breed, good training and socialization are essential with owning a German Shepherd. They are one of the most popular breeds in the United States Behind only the family-friendly Labrador Retriever, the German Shepherd is the second most popular breed in the U. German Shepherds Go By Two Names Most dog owners know them simply as German Shepherds, but their name has changed over the years, and they are still referred to by different names in other countries. Many people confuse the two as different breeds, but they are the same animal. Sable, tan, and black color variations are among the most common and recognizable coats, but other recognized colors include black and red, black and cream, grey, and even blue. German Shepherds are known for being mildly aloof and independent dogs, and this is often mistaken for aggression or unpredictable behavior, but in truth, these dogs are rarely aggressive when trained properly. While they are reserved and aloof toward new faces and do not tend to make friends easily, once they get to know you, they are extremely friendly and loyal animals. They make great family dogs because they are loyal, gentle, and friendly with their owners. They are well known for being highly protective and powerful animals, making them ideal guard dogs, and they are typically only aggressive when provoked or protecting their family. They are supremely intelligent animals that can be trained to do almost any job, leading to their wide use in service and military applications. These dogs thrive off of having a specific job to do, especially with their owners, so they are happiest when close to their human family. Indeed, close companionship is a must with the breed, and they will not do well being left alone for extended periods. They will swiftly become bored and frustrated, and this can lead to destructive behavior and even aggression if left unchecked. If you are away from home frequently, the German Shepherd is not the breed for you. They are generally gentle and affectionate with children, although they may accidentally knock over small kids while playing. Of course, good training and socialization are essential for this powerful breed. Other dogs are not usually an issue, but they will need to be socialized early to get along with the family cat! Make sure that their food has an animal-based protein as the first listed ingredient and that the food is free from filler ingredients like wheat, corn, and soy. We recommend substituting this dry food with canned wet food or lean meats and organ meats to add variety and give an amino acid and protein boost. Large breeds like the German Shepherd Sable are prone to joint issues, so you need to be careful of overfeeding them. Avoid giving them too many treats or table scraps, and give them a diet rich in healthy oils to aid their joint health. This includes agility sports and training, as well as puzzle toys and games. These large dogs will need at least 1—2 hours of intensive exercise every day to prevent boredom and destructive behavior, although more is better. They are great companions if you are an outdoor enthusiast and will adore joining you on runs, hikes, and cycling. They have a natural love for water and will enjoy an occasional swim too. One point to keep in mind is to be careful about over-exercising German Shepherds as puppies. While these dogs are active and agile, during the first year, they are rapidly growing, and too much exercise can be harmful to their skeletal development and may cause joint issues later. While they can be aloof and independently-minded at times, making training difficult for novice owners, they typically love the process, and training this breed is usually relatively easy. They should be trained from a young age, preferably from the day that you bring them home, as this will mitigate any bad habit formation that may potentially occur. Positive reinforcement training methods are highly recommended for this powerful breed, as too much harsh scolding or reprimands may lead to an unresponsive dog at best or aggressive behavior at worst. This method uses praise and rewards for a job well done, and this promotes good behavior in the future rather than punishment for bad behavior. Socialization is an often-overlooked aspect of training but is vital to the success of properly training your dog. Socialization with other dogs from an early age will lead to less distraction while in public places, and your Shepherd will be far more likely to follow commands with other dogs around. Also, we recommend engaging in training sessions after a short exercise session, as your pooch will be less distracted, more attentive, and thus, more likely to learn. Even with daily brushing, there is no way around having a ton of hair around your home, so you may need to invest in a pet vacuum cleaner before bringing one of these pooches home! That said, brushing your Shepherd a minimum of two or three times a week will help a great deal, especially when they are shedding heavily. This will remove any dead hair and keep their coat smooth and healthy. Avoid using human soaps or shampoos, as this can strip their coats of natural oils; stick to water or special pet shampoos. Other than that, they need a toenail trimming once a month or so, depending on their activity levels, and regular teeth brushing will stop any tartar build-up and potential dental issues. Soft, safe chew toys and high-quality kibble can also help keep their teeth plaque-free, but you should still brush their teeth regularly. Most responsible breeders will make sure your dog is free from most of the genetic problems that can affect these dogs before selling them, but of course, there is no real definitive way to avoid some of these issues. Being such a large breed, German Shepherds are prone to joint issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as a progressive degeneration of the spinal cord called degenerative myelopathy. This disease may eventually progress to the point where your dog has trouble walking due to the lameness in their back legs, and unfortunately, most of the time, there is no treatment. Gastric dilatation-volvulus, commonly known as bloat or gastric torsion, is another condition to keep an eye out for. This is common in large breeds with deep chests like the German Shepherd. The condition is caused by dogs eating large meals too quickly, causing a build-up of gas in the stomach, which then twists, cutting off blood flow. The condition is treatable but frequently results in death, as there is not much time to get to the vet. Minor Conditions. Sep 27, Jul 8, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Are you looking for a dog with all the amazing characteristics of a German shepherd, but you also want something a bit different and special? If so, then why not consider a sable German shepherd? The sable German shepherd is not a crossbreed dog but rather a recognized variation within the breed, so the dog retains all the benefits of a purebred pup. German shepherds are one of the most popular purebred dog breeds in the United States, in part thanks to their intelligence, trainability, and intense loyalty. They are also well-loved for their sleek, noble appearance. Interestingly, sable is actually the original color of the German shepherd breed. It is the only variation of the German shepherd that has the same color as the founding member of the breed. Read on to learn everything you need to know about these attractive, intelligent, and hard-working dogs. Sable German Shepherd Appearance Sable German shepherds look just like most other German shepherd dogs, with the exception of their distinctively colored coat. The German shepherd is a large breed. You can expect the males to reach up to 26 inches tall and weigh between 75 and 95 pounds. The females are a bit smaller. Their heads are domed in shape with a long, square muzzle. They have alert, erect ears and long necks that make them seem even larger than they are. It is considered ideal for the dog to be longer than it is tall with a proportion of 10 to 8. Their bushy tail should extend out in a hook-like shape. German shepherds tend to dip their head low like a wolf when they are running or prowling, which contributes to the consensus that they look very much like the wolf ancestors of dogs. These dogs have double coats with a soft undercoat and a denser guard layer. The guard layer can be either medium or long, though the medium length is significantly more common. Most German shepherds are either tan and black or red and black. The lighter brown shade is usually their principal color, with a black face mask and black markings on their back which often look like a saddle. A variety of other color variations exist, including pure black, pure white, liver, silver, blue, panda, and, of course, sable. Sable basically means the dog has mostly lighter colored hair with a black tips, which can make the dog appear grey or mottled. In reality, the actual color combinations are more varied, and the sable pattern could be any mixture of tan, black, brown, or red. The term is mostly used in the United States. In other countries, such as Germany, these dogs are often just called grey. It has since become a popular working dog for roles such as search and rescue, police, and military due to its strength, trainability, and intelligence. The breed emerged from the s trend to try to standardize dog breeds to assist in certain jobs, such as herding sheep. Max von Stephanitz was a leading thinker in this area and was specifically looking for canine specimens that matched his ideal vision of a working dog. He found that ideal dog at a dog show in .He purchased the dog and named it Horand von Grafrath and founded the Society for German Shepherd Dogs to promote the breed and others like it. Horand, who was in fact a sable-colored German Shepherd, became the center point of a breeding program. Horand himself had 84 puppies, and extensive inbreeding was required to secure the characteristics of the breed. When the German Shepherd was imported to the United States in the early 20th century, it became popular with gangsters and bootleggers for its strength, intelligence, and intimidating appearance. It was also popular in Nazi Germany, and even Adolf Hitler loved the breed. As a result, it has gained a reputation for being a fierce, intimidating, and even dangerous breed. However, this says much more about how the dogs were used than the natural temperament of the dogs themselves. German Shepherd Temperament The color of a German shepherd makes no difference to its temperament, so you can expect a sable German shepherd to conform to the general temperament of the breed. German shepherd dogs are often described as active and self-assured. This, combined with their intelligence and eagerness to learn and please, makes them excellent working dogs. They are also highly obedient and loyal. Their extreme loyalty also extends to family situations. They will raise the alarm with their loud, deep bark if they sense danger. However, German shepherds are not naturally aggressive. This is a reputation that stems from the way that the dog has been used in the past. That said, German shepherds are often associated with severe dog bites. This is largely due to the popularity of the breed and the strength of their bite rather than any innate aggression; there are simply more of them around than many other dog breeds. Tests suggest that German Shepherds have a bite force of over 1, newtons, which is less than a Rottweiler but more than a pit bull. They tend to have a natural suspicion of strangers and like to chase smaller animals. Their intelligence and compliance means they can be trained not to display this behavior, but as an owner, you need to put in the work of training them properly and consistently. German shepherds are a very curious breed in addition to being highly intelligent, which is why they are well suited for search and rescue missions. German Shepherd Energy Level German shepherds are very playful and active dogs, so they need lots of physical exercise and mental stimulation in order to thrive. This is another reason why they often do well as working animals. Working gives them both the physical and mental stimulation to complete these challenging tasks. Pleasing their handlers is also attractive to these highly reward-oriented dogs. Ideally, German shepherds need at least 60 to 90 minutes of exercise every day, preferably spread over at least two different sessions. However, this should be slightly less when they are puppies. There is always a risk of over-exercising puppies, especially when it comes to large dog breeds. As a general rule, you should exercise a puppy daily for five minutes for every month of their age until they are an adult. German shepherds reach adulthood at around 18 months. So, for example, a six month old pup should be getting 30 minutes of exercise a day if we follow this rule, as six months times five minutes comes out to 30 minutes per day. What to know more about exercising your puppy? Read our article: How far can I walk my puppy? German shepherds will love to accompany you on adventures, such as hikes and walks, and they also love swimming. They will do well at the lake, on the beach, or even accompanying you on a boat. However, even though they are excellent swimmers, they should have a doggy life vest if you are out at sea. They will struggle in an apartment, and their large size can make navigating small apartments challenging even for these nimble dogs. Ideally, they should have a backyard where they can move around freely, especially when left at home alone. The intelligence of these dogs means they can get bored quickly. While puzzle toys, such as a Kong , can help on the occasions when you do need to leave them alone, they are likely to become stressed if they are left alone regularly. German Shepherd Health Risks German shepherds have a life expectancy of a little over 10 years. This is normal for dogs of their size, and larger dogs tend to have shorter lifespans than smaller breeds. You should not expect a sable German shepherd to be immune from these, especially since further inbreeding is often required to produce the sable color. It is common for these dogs to develop hip and elbow dysplasia , which is a developmental abnormality of the joints that can restrict movement and cause pain. This is often the result of different elements of the body growing at different speeds. The best way to prevent this is to ensure good nutrition and the right level of exercise during their crucial growing period. Even if the development of hip and elbow dysplasia does not affect the dog at a younger age, it can make them more susceptible to arthritis and other forms of joint pain when they are older. Older German shepherds often benefit from an orthopedic bed to take pressure off their joints. The breed also appears to be predisposed to degenerative myelopathy. This is a degenerative spinal cord disease that generally shows up in older dogs after about the age of seven years. If you are looking for one of these puppies specifically, you may need to go to a breeder. The sable color is relatively rare, and breeders have to control specifically for this kind of coat. As a result, you can expect to pay a bit more for a sable puppy than you would a German shepherd of any other more common colors. Are you thinking of adopting a sable German shepherd, or any German shepherd, into your family? Here are a few questions to ask yourself to determine if you and your home are a good fit for this breed. German shepherds are highly trainable and obedient, which means even first-time owners should be able to take on the challenge of training them. German shepherds need a commanding presence to keep them in check. The sad reality is that many people are also afraid of big dogs like these, and their behavior and response to them can cause serious problems. You need to feel confident to take control of your dog in charged situations. These dogs are also very active, so they will do best if they have a bit of outdoors to call their own that lets them run around a little, dig, and play. Just be sure your yard is properly and securely fenced in! German shepherds are very energetic dogs that need to be active a lot, which means you will need to be active frequently as well. As well as daily exercise, they will want to join you on weekend adventures rather than weekends on the couch catching up on Netflix. German shepherds need to spend a lot of time with their owners, as they need both companionship and intellectual stimulation. Thinking about getting a new puppy? Check out our new puppy checklist. Sable German shepherds have a coat with lighter roots and darker tips covering most of their body. The tips are usually black, which means the dog looks as though it has a greyish color. It is a natural color variation within the breed. How common are sable German shepherds? Sable German shepherds are significantly rare in comparison to the popular tan and black or red and black colors that dominate the breed. This is why a sable puppy will probably cost you more than other color variations. However, pure black German shepherds are a bit more rare. Are sable German shepherds bigger? No, sable German shepherds are not bigger than other German shepherds. The females should weigh between 55 and 75 pounds and the males 75 to 95 pounds. Look at the size of the parents to get a better feel for how big your pup is likely to get. Are German shepherds good family dogs? With the right training and socialization, German shepherds are excellent dogs for an active household. They will be loving, obedient, and protective. They are good around children, though small children should always be supervised around dogs, regardless of the breed and their level of familiarity. Accidents happen, even when children are around dogs they have grown up with and know well. What is bad about German shepherds? German shepherds tend to be suspicious of everyone, which can contribute to overly protective and territorial behavior. Proper socialization can help minimize this personality trait, but they will probably carry an element of this with them for their entire lives. The Verdict Sable German shepherds are not exotic crossbreeds but rather a rare color of the purebred German shepherd dog. They are actually the original color of the breed, matching its famous founding member. Sable-colored German shepherds are actually relatively rare, so they can be expensive to procure. However, aside from their unique color, they are just like other German shepherds, one of the most popular breeds in the United States. They are large and strong dogs with a lot of energy, which makes them well suited to hard work. They are also highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them ideal to train to complete complex tasks such as the roles of military and police dogs despite being originally bred as herders. Overall, sable German shepherds are: Rarer than just about any other color of German shepherd No different than other German shepherds as far as personality, temperament, etc. With the right training and socialization, they are very safe dogs. German shepherds are great dogs for active people who have a lot of time to spend with their pup and want a companion to join them on various active adventures. Do you have experience with sable German shepherd dogs? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Related Article:.