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Our Goals To adopt companion animals into loving homes. To evaluate the temperament of each dog to determine its suitability to his or her new adoptive family. To reinforce basic training, socialization and house manners. To provide needed medical care and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are received for all adoptable dogs, including spay and neuter. To promote education about responsible pet ownership, including the spaying and neutering of pets, and the humane and respectful treatment of all animals. To encourage responsible action to reunite lost pets with their owners. To establish a network of foster homes working to ensure comfort and assistance of all German Shepherd Dogs in need. When each dog leaves our care, it is our goal that they go to a home where they: Are loved as a member of the family. Are well cared for. Are receiving the proper mental and physical stimulation. Are receiving the daily interaction and affection they need. Whether it's medical or boarding bills, food, toys, treats, crates, supplements, special supply needs, or surgery, every penny is used for them. No amount is too small. Won't you please consider either a one-time donation or a monthly sponsorship. We and the dogs will thank you, plus it is tax-deductible! Keep checking back. Thread starter longranger; Start date Apr 30, ; Apr 30, 1 L. Because all breeding programs are different, you may find dogs for sale outside that price range. German Shepherds Nashville, TN stonewickgermanshepherds. Breed: German Shepherd Dog. Acclimated to goats, chickens and other dogs. Their brains, size, and loyalty make them ideal police and service dogs, but they also make great friends. At 16 weeks old, he already weighs in at a whopping 45 lbs! We encourage all prospective puppy owners to do their research and be prepared with questions to ask the breeder. He is current for his first round of vaccination and deworming. German Shepherds are one of the most popular dogs in the United States, and it's easy to see why. Learn more 1, puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation Location Color. German Shepherd Puppies for Sale in Tennessee. Similar German Shepherd Puppies. We have been in business since , and. I have 6 German Sheppard puppies for sale. Diesel Von Haus Vekic is quite the guy! He was born in Serbia, but he's mostly West German working line. Make sure to do research on th MORE. What's the price of German Shepherd puppies for sale in TN? There's no set price for German Shepherd puppies for sale Tennessee. Health, hips, and elbows guaranteed. For Sale Akc German shepherd puppies. Dogs and Puppies » German Shepherd. Pricing is determined by the unique. However, this price can vary based on the breeder's location in Tennessee and experience in breeding German Shepherds. As a member of American Kennel. Tennessee German Shepherd Classifieds Hoobly. We advocate advance health and well-being for all canines, and work to promote responsible dog ownership. Makukulit na puppies shihtzu puppy puppylove fbreels. Find German Shepherd puppies for sale Near Bartlett, TN German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. Location Close to Kingsport My buddy lives near Kingsport he has two male German shepherd puppies if anyone interested let me know I'll get you his number. It's a great breed for active households. Awesome Working Dogs! Incredible Protection Dogs! Amazing Family Dogs! Breeding for Excellence! We are also close to the military base near Clarksville, Tennessee. Been checked by a veterinarian and had two of her puppy shots a more. Christians Guardian Shepherds. Can deliver to his new home or meet at a agreed location. German Shepherd Rescue Tennessee. These attributes include sex, temperament, coloring and more importantly, breeder experience. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Memphis, TN from trusted breeders. He is about lbs, solid black. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Blue is a German Shepherd Dog puppy for sale in …. Breed German Shepherd Breed Info. With proper training and socialization, German Shepherds for sale in Tennessee make loving and loyal family members. This small hobby kennel believes in "old fashion" German shepherds that are not over angulated. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. AKC proudly supports dedicated and responsible breeders. His pictures are current and also his parent Nala and Bruno. Loyal, obedient, friendly, smart and hardworking, these dogs seem to have it all when you're searching for a new best friend. Our German Shepherd kennel is located near Nashville, Tennessee. Learn more 1, puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation Location. To Reserve a Puppy: We accept deposits to reserve your place in line for a future puppy. About German Shepherds. German Shepherd Dog Puppies. We promote obedience,agility, and lots of love as a family member. Von Tajgetosz Working German Shepherds. He is level headed and playful. The dogs are selected for size, temperament, and drive. Socialized with adults and children. When calling, emailing or texting us you will more than likely speaking directly to Cindy, owner, and founder of Bradford's K-9 Corral. She is always happy and very spoiled being the only female. We take pride in all of our puppies. Our German Shepherds have excellent bloodlines that come from European breeders that focus on excellent temperaments for pet, show, Schutzhund, protection, police work, PTSD and many other varieties. Up to date on shots and deworming. Find German Shepherd puppies for sale Near Clarksville, TN German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. We provide ample ground to roam along with pools to swim and exercise in. Learn more puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation Location Color. Twin Oaks German Shepherds. Pricing is determined by the unique attributes of each particular puppy. He likes to play, he is so loving and enjoys to cuddle. Feel free to browse hundreds of active. German Shepherd Dog. German Shepherd mix Excellent homestead guardian. Being forthcoming about the reason to the staff at the shelter can have a big impact on the animal, and the others being housed there. Because the dog growled at a handler, Dobbs decided to place the dog in isolation thinking he would eventually calm down. The next day, the dog began to be very sick and Dobbs took the animal to a veterinarian. The animal was diagnosed with parvovirus and was too far gone for anyone to save it. Puppies are more susceptible than adults, but all have a much better chance if they are vaccinated against it. Had we known that the dog was ill, we may have been able to save the other dogs. Dobbs and the shelter staff cleaned the shelter with bleach to prevent the virus from spreading. This way, anyone who may have been contaminated will kill the virus by wiping their feet on the mats. The staff has not only had to work harder to protect the other animals awaiting good homes, but also suffered emotional pain. The staff is attached to the animals that come through the door, Dobbs said, and do all they can to ensure the dogs and cats find a loving home. We all were so upset — and angry. This person could have told us the dog was sick and we would have done everything we could to make it better, but there is only so much we can do. It is normally administered to puppies in the first series of recommended shots at the veterinarian. Bloody stool and diarrhea are signs of parvo infection. If a dog shows signs of parvo infection, immediately take it to a veterinarian for an examination. Stay Engaged React to this article and join our community of readers sharing their feedback.
My story started here. My best friend, my constant companion, everywhere I went, she went with me. She protected me, helped teach me about life, and was my Best friend for 16 years. My inspiration. I'm Robin.I breed long coated German shepherds. My dogs are from European countries with outstanding lines. I breed for temperaments, beautiful red and black color, quality not quantity. I am a small hobby breeder, breeding with attention to detail. My dogs live with me in my home, not outside in kennels. They are a part of our family. Feel free to visit our Ranch in Pennsylvania to see for yourself. SG1 Baldrsens Tequila is beautiful, graceful,and with great confirmation in show lines. Tequila is very protective of her family. Excellent Mother! They say the eyes are the mirror to the soul. Our Bobbie is protective of her family, a joy to be around and one of the prettiest long coat Black German shepherds I ever had the pleasure to own and love. Eve has Good Hips and Elbows, Dm test score is "A" Eve has matured into a very stunning female, highly intelligent, and is high drive with a willingness to learn. As a responsible future German Shepherd dog owner, you might want to focus on sourcing your new pup from a responsible and reliable breeder instead of a questionable or unreliable one. Good German Shepherd breeders always adhere to the German Shepherd breed standard established by the AKC, and they do everything they can to ensure that the pups they breed are as healthy as possible from the start. Shadowbrook Shepherds — Troy Owned by Pat Holley, who is an experienced dog breeder and handler, Shadowbrook Shepherds is a breeding outfit that specializes in producing high-quality German Shepherd dogs that come from remarkable German bloodlines. They produce GSDs of work, show, and pet quality, as well as the occasional breeding-quality dogs that are only sold to approved breeders. Shadowbrook Shepherds is a member in good standing with both the German Shepherd Dog Club of America and the American Kennel Club; hence, its breeding program focuses on sticking to the standards for responsible and ethical breeding practices. They produce an average of six to eight litters of German Shepherds per year, all the while focusing on good conformation, excellent health, and sound temperament, to ensure that the dogs they breed excel in any field — whether as regular old family members, skilled working dogs, or quality show dogs. Of course, Shadowbrook Shepherds chooses only health-tested breeding dogs to ensure that their litters carry the best qualities of the German Shepherd breed. All of their puppies are also health tested and vet checked, as well as fully vaccinated, microchipped, and put through a deworming protocol before they are ready to leave for their new home. Shadowbrook Shepherds offers a limited AKC registration, a health guarantee, and a new puppy starter pack that contains all the necessary information that goes along with your puppy such as health records, dog training advice, toys, etc. Shadowbrook Shepherds details. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile dog breeds in the world. They are strong willed and highly intelligent with a very playful spirit. These qualities make them a wonderful family pet. German Shepherds can be a bit wary of strangers and other animals, so early socialization is very important. German Shepherds are born protectors. They will give their families a great sense of security, while their loving and lively personality will make them true companions. German Shepherds are also quite adaptable. They are police dogs, military service dogs, guide dogs for special needs individuals, and of course they still retain their herding instincts. German Shepherds love to run around the yard with children and adults, playing daily games of fetch, and any other physical activities enjoyed by their family. When choosing the sex of a German Shepherd, it is good to keep in mind that males are more protective of their surroundings and females are more protective of their family. Overall, the German Shepherd combines the best qualities of all breeds into one - loyal, dedicated, attentive and courageous.
If you're looking for the sweetest new addition to your family come meet Pedro - an approximately 2 year old, 60 pound, boxer mix. Pedro found himself at a shelter in Missouri as a stray. After meeting him you'll wonder why no one ever came looking for him. Pedro's resume is quite impressive. He is dog friendly and people friendly. It's hard to decide which one he loves more! He likes to chew on bones, go for walks, and to play fetch. Pedro is house trained and crate trained, making adoption a smooth and easy transition. He loves a good snuggle and to curl up next to you on the couch. He has been great with the kids he has met and is catching on quickly to basic commands. All dogs are brought current on their vaccinations up to the point of adoption. If old enough a heartworm test is done. For adoption consideration, please fill out an application from our website at www. Please also read about our adoption process and requirements on the website. For the safety and convenience of our foster homes and their orphans, we will only consider applicants that are within a mile adoption radius. Puppy Breeds If you have a liking for a fearless, energetic yet devoted pet then the boxer breed of dogs should form your list of preferred choices. As the 9th most recognized and popular dog breed in the world, whether the brindle fur colored, white or fawn, a boxer is a delight to look at and a fabulous companion around. Discover more about our Boxer puppies for sale below! History From ancient Germany precisely around the 19th century had the now extinct mastiff breed Bullenbeisser and bulldogs brought in from England. At the time of their arrival, they served as hunting dogs for bears, deer, and other ferocious beasts, it would capture the prey with the help of its awesome teeth and detain it until the hunter arrives. And in the first boxer standard club was launched with a comprehensive document that is still in use today. Shortly after, the breed made its way into other European countries and got into the U. S in the late 19th century with the American Kennel Club taking registration of its first boxer around .During the first world war, boxers played the role of a military dog as a pack-carrier, a guard dog, and an attack dog, later they were taken home by the soldiers and got introduced into the domestic world as a show dog, best companion, and a reliable guard. Temperament One with so much life, energetic, curious, attentive, active, smart, sociable and incredible fun with children is the boxer, they are also known to be very patient and highly protective of their family members making them the love and desire of many homes. As active dogs, they need a lot of exercise to keep them mentally fit, apparently having a mind of its own, you will find your boxer entertain itself by digging the ground often, chewing, and licking the mouth to beat boredom. They are also very stubborn in character which makes them a terrible choice for first-timers with dogs, they are generally a bit difficult with adult dogs including dogs of a similar breed but friendly with puppies. They usually do not bark unless there is a genuine reason behind it but they love to growl. Environment If you have occupied home with people around all the time or you want a canine buddy the whole time, then a boxer is just the perfect breed to get. Being a highly active dog, they dread loneliness and they can cope finely in both a house and an apartment as long as you provide it with enough room and spaces for exercises and activities. What you must have is a large yard if you are living in a house for it to dig the ground and run around as it likes. And more so, if you are given to being away from home most of the time, getting a boxer may not be the best for you and the dog, because they usually get aggressive when left alone. Boxers are known as loud snorers and they drool greatly too. Exercises Boxers are playful and very energetic dogs as such regular exercises are part of a good canine relationship, especially a breed of this sort. Your boxer should be allowed to play in a fenced area and on-leashed since it is likely to jump and leap around in excitement. This puts a boxer as a bad choice for a frail owner as they may find it a tad impossible and daunting keeping up with its excessive activity demands. Grooming Being a breed with a short and thin coat its grooming demands are quite easy and little, all it needs is a light brushing of the hair twice every week to maintain its good and gleeful looks. Bathing should be a once in a while since boxers are generally clean dogs and its nails, be trimmed once every month or as often as they grow worn on surfaces, its teeth should also be brushed daily to avoid tartar formation and other dental crises. Our Boxer puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. Contact us today to learn more about the availability of our Boxer puppies for sale. We look forward to helping you find your next family member. Our pet counselors can answer any questions you have about our Boxer puppies. Yes, boxers are particularly fond of their family members especially when goodly trained. Are Boxers trainable? Though the boxers can be a little headstrong, they are very intelligent and with a proper training environment, they respond well. Are Boxers friendly with kids? They are very fond of children and they love playing games with them. Are Boxers friendly with other animals? Boxers are naturally patient with puppies, pooches and small animals but a bit unaccommodating of adult dogs and other animals. Are Boxers good apartment dogs? They can live anywhere you make as a home all you need is to provide it with enough space for exercise. How is Boxers shedding? Given the shortness of their coat, they shed minimally and occasionally, you can also regulate the shedding by frequent brushing of their coat. Are Boxers good for first-time owners? Not quite, as their exercise needs are way too high for their inexperienced hands. Are Boxers loud barkers? But growling is a thing they do most. Are Boxers tolerable to heat and cold? All they need is moderate exposure to heat and cold because of their thin fur body. How long can Boxers live? The average life-span of boxers is 10 years.
Like our Facebook page here We welcome any inquiries about bulldogs in general and our puppies in particular. Our puppies are AKC registered, well socialized, healthy, and come with a one year health guarantee. French Bulldog puppies and English bulldog puppies make great pets and ours are prespoiled by our children before going to their new homes. We are a home based business in Kansas and are available the majority of the time by phone or email. We strive to educate the new owner before their new addition arrives and are always available for questions afterwards. Adding a bulldog to your home is a very exciting time and we love to hear updates on how the puppy is doing and adjusting to their new family. Check out our Satisfied customers webpage for all the cute bulldog pictures people have sent us over the years! English bulldogs and French bulldogs are so unique in their personalities; there are never two that look or act the same way. We just love how wonderful they are with children and are excited that our 3 year old daughter enjoys playing with them as much as we do. Bulldogs will play for 1 hour and then sleep for 2; they are ideal for any age of child and usually get along well with other pets. They tend to shed more as the seasons change but you will always notice some shedding. As puppies they tend to have more energy but as they age; getting them off the couch to go potty can become a chore. We love all of our bulldogs and enjoy getting to know the new families that they will be joining. Thank you for visiting our website and we would love to help your next best friend. Past Puppies. AKC registered, current on vaccinations, and vet checked. About Us Hobby Breeders Our family brought home our first Frenchie "Tess" 10 years ago, adding more love and joy than we could have ever imagined. Since that time, our fascination and love for this breed continued to grow. Before we knew it, we were those crazy dog people. We decided that we wanted to share our love for this amazing breed with others so their home can feel as complete as ours. Our dogs are raised in a healthy, loving environment. They really are a part of our home. While this may be a hobby for us, the care and attention we give to breeding and caring for these cuties is not. Our home is situated on land that has plenty of space for these guys to roam. Happy, Healthy Bloodline Our utmost concern is for the quality and health of our dogs and puppies. Our Frenchies are certified with the American Kennel Club AKC , the only purebred dog registry in the United States that maintains an investigation and inspection effort. As we set out on this journey we were fortunate to have by our side several Frenchie breeders with years of success under their belts in creating champion bloodlines. For our first litter, we were thankful to know Ed and Laura Gauger at Gaugers Little Bullies, and used their stud "Hugo" a very handsome and quality stud to sire our first litter. If we don't have any available puppies I highly suggest you check them out at gaugerslittlebullies. A Furever Friend Frenchies are one of the most lovable, quirky, and fun breeds. They are great with kids and adorable snugglers. If you are looking for a swimming buddy however, Frenchies are not for you. They sink. Their snubbed noses make them extremely cute, but do not leave them well equipped to handle extreme temperatures. So, take care to make sure they are not exposed to extreme heat or cold. Sign Up For Updates Be the first to hear about new litters, availability, and helpful pet advice. At our breeding program, we hold steadfast to our commitment to ethical breeding, ensuring that only healthy representations of the breed find their fur-ever homes. What sets us apart is our unwavering dedication to the well-being of our furry companions. These rigorous assessments provide us with valuable insights into their genetic makeup and ensure that any potential health issues are identified and addressed. By prioritizing extensive testing, we guarantee that our puppies come from responsible and reputable bloodlines, setting them up for a lifetime of happiness and good health. When you bring home a puppy from KC Belle Frenchies, you're not just welcoming a four-legged friend into your life; you're adding a new member to your family. From day one, our puppies are raised within the comfort of our home and showered with love and attention from our entire family. We firmly believe that this nurturing environment helps shape their personalities, making them the joyful and well-rounded companions that French Bulldogs are known to be. Socialization is a key pillar of our breeding program. Our puppies are exposed to various environments and experiences, ensuring that they become familiar and comfortable with different sounds, smells, and sights. Additionally, they are given ample opportunities to interact with children, fostering a gentle and tolerant nature - a characteristic that makes French Bulldogs excellent family pets. As devoted breeders, we understand the importance of setting the foundation for good behavior. That's why our puppies start their potty training prior to joining their new families. By introducing these fundamentals early on, we aim to ease the transition and help our puppies settle into their new homes seamlessly. At KC Belle Frenchies, our dogs aren't just dogs—they are cherished members of our family. We share an unconditional bond with each of them, and they bring immeasurable joy to our lives. Our breeding program is driven by our genuine love and passion for these incredible creatures. We prioritize the well-being and happiness of our French Bulldogs above all else, ensuring that they receive the care, attention, and affection they deserve. If you are seeking a loving, healthy, and well-socialized French Bulldog puppy to bring into your family, look no further than KC Belle Frenchies.
Admittedly, he was too strong and powerful for me to work. I bred him to possess old school color, old school temperament and power! The amazing part is that he was handled in these events by both the husband and wife in separate events! Satoris Raiko is a product of his breeding. Irak vom Schwarzen Bar An incredible natural tracker! Irak is an amazing dog with many High Finishes in trials in Germany. Besides being an incredible natural tracker, he is super powerful in Protection as well as biddable in Obedience. Our owners still compete at the highest levels of Local, Regional, National and International competitions. Very rarely, we will accept Board and Train clients but do offer consultation and limited private lessons. We have continuously produced German Shepherds pups from European working bloodlines with the highest possible and balanced drives, stability and working ability. Our dogs have proudly served individual owners, members of law enforcement and the competitive working dog community. Our kennel breeds a limited amount of litters per year maintaining the highest standards as we focus on quality rather than quantity. Puppy pictures.All puppies come with full hip, elbow and temperament guarantees. We registered our first litter in which produced quality working dogs capable of attaining the highest level of working competitions. The attributes, character and trainability he possessed are still what we strive for today. We pride ourselves on producing the best available working line German Shepherds. Other pups from the litter are currently in training or active being loved family members. Within two years the business was importing more than 20 dogs per month from Germany and working with Police Departments from New York to California as well as sport enthusiasts. You'll be asked to provide information about yourself and what you are looking for so the breeder can help you find the right match. Despite her age, she is in great health and has. Loyal, attentive and happy. Our puppies' parents have a 3-year traceable lineage. Words cannot express how sincere this breeder with regards to the dogs are. Address: Atlanta, Georgia Phone: Email: info ohertannen. Schafer Haus German Shepherds 8. Haus Amberg Shepherds is a family-based kennel that breeds for the love and preservation of the German shepherd dog GSD. Complete the form for more details! Puppies We are pleased to offer opportunities for our puppies to be placed with approved people who have a passion for the GSD breed and desire to provide an appropriate home. Prices will vary based on breeder experience, coat color white German Shepherd puppies for sale in GA and type, pedigree, and even gender. Start here. German Shepherd Dog. Our pups ship AKC registered, and the parents will be titled, all records will be available. PuppySpot is a platform where you can browse for available German Shepherd puppies from the comfort of your home in Georgia. Our dogs have 5 acres of fenced open land for play, exercise and training, known as. German Shepherd Breeders Georgia. We ship worldwide to approved buyers. She underwent heartworm treatment on the house and is ready to go! All dogs are housed in foster homes until they are adopted. German Shepherd Breeder in Tennessee. World class GSDs available from the heart of southwest Georgia. Vom Orenburg German Shepherds. Learn more puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation Location Color. German Shepherds are also known for their strong sense of loyalty and protective nature, making them excellent guard dogs and loyal companions. Find German Shepherd puppies for sale Near Georgia German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. About German Shepherds. Von Anna German Shepherds 4. This is one of the most popular breeds in the US and around the world. The dogs are extremely obedient and the quality and poise is just incredible. The most important factor is the reputation of the breeder. CKC registered German Shepard puppies. Southern Legacy German Shepherds 3. Vom Orenburg strives to further perfect the German Shepherd Dog by breeding the finest litters possible. If you are looking for a loyal, loving, and devoted companion to spend your days with, Georgia might just be the perfect fit for you. Should be about lbs when full-grown. Tye German Shepherds. German Shepherds are one of the most popular dogs in the United States, and it's easy to see why. AKC Breeders of Merit. German Shepherd puppies for sale from trusted breeders. Despite her age, she is in great health and has plenty of love to give to the right family. Kolenda Kennels is a German Shepherd Breeder that is a personalized kennel and dedicated to improving the breed, located at th Ave Dorr, Michigan , located in Grand Rapids Michigan area. Van Giller German Shepherds. Thanks for submitting, we will contact you within one day! Kennels Von Lotta German Shepherd 5. All German Shepherd. Our belief is simpleand our goal is realistic. We have 9 boys and 1 girl! They were born on March 25, .As soon as she sees you she starts to run to go find a ball. When buying a puppy it is a good ideal to visit the kennel. Meet Georgia, a beautiful and wise German Shepherd looking for her forever home to spend her golden years. Once you apply, Karen will get back to you about availability, pricing and next steps. Our rescue is recognized by the IRS as a c3 charitable organization. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. If you are looking for a top quality German Shepherd puppy from one of the country's most reputable and accomplished breeders, you came to the right place" Von den Oher Tannen is a German Shepherd Dog breeder based in Atlanta, Georgia. We hand selected these German Shepherd puppies for sale in Georgia from our puppy finder. Our mission is to produce the highest quality German Shephard puppies based on the European standards of breeding. Tallapoosa, Georgia Dogs and Puppies, German Shepherd Full blooded German shepherd pups have been d worm and utd on shots have both male and females. Puppies We are pleased to offer opportunities for our puppies to be placed with approved people who have a passion for the GSD breed and desire to provide an. Since you're searching for German Shepherd breeders in Georgia, we 2. This is not a kennel or a large facility full of dogs and puppies at all times. German Shepherd Dog Puppies. Start Application Meet Thunder. Their brains, size, and loyalty make them ideal police and service dogs, but they also make great friends. Georgia German Shepherd Puppy Breeder. German Shepherd Breeders in Michigan. Loyal, obedient, friendly, smart and hardworking, these dogs seem to have it all when you're searching for a new best friend. Our German Shepherds are the perfect family companion, home protector, service animal, guard dog, police K9 units, narcotics control and lifelong loyal friend. Learn more puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation Location Color Attributes. Pets Available "german shepherd" in Atlanta, GA. All donations to this rescue are tax deductible. Reserve Your Puppy Now. Below is a list of German Shepherds that. Welcome to Altvater German Shepherds! All breeding, whelping, and care for our dogs takes place in our loving home environment at Kingdom's Ranch, located in Canton, GA a suburb just north of Atlanta. Vom Clark's German Shepherds in Georgia. She is fully vaccinated and comes with AKC registration. She is very talkative if you try to ig. We ship worldwide to approved. Our high quality puppies are. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in Georgia cost? Find German Shepherd puppies for sale German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. Our dogs are all fed a combination of top quality grain-free kibble, home cooked food, high quality moist food, and fresh bones. All German Shepherd breeders with puppies listed must go through a screening process, so you can rest assured knowing that your companion will be safely shipped to your home in Georgia. Oher Tannen German Shepherds 7. If you would like to adopt a dog from the German Shepherd Dog Rescue of Georgia, you can see potential dogs available for adoption on their website. It is our mission to breed top-quality German Shepherds and leave a mark in the Shepherd world by producing beautiful, healthy, versatile pups with excellent temperaments for families. We currently have 1 available German Shepherd puppy from our Y litter. Our puppies are AKC Registered and come with a health guarantee. She never gets tired of chasing a ball. By choosing to adopt a dog, you act as an agent of change. German Shepherd Dogs are medium- to large-sized dogs with a life expectancy of years. Beres Haus German Shepherds. Our mission is to produce the highest quality German. Price can be determined by several factors. Oher Tannen German Shepherd Dogs. To learn more, click this link to view our Adoption Policies. Von Anna German Shepherds If. First up on the list is Caine De Lup, a hobby breeder, and training facility. Please fill out this application so we can best serve you. We are sure you will enjoy your adoption experience. To view dogs up for adoption see below. Males stand about inches at the shoulder and weigh pounds. Prices may vary depending on the breeder and other factors such as AKC registration or health clearances. To accomplish our mission we only breed the dogs with the best temperament, dark. All of our German Shepherd puppies include a written and signed health guarantee, papers for AKC registration, complete medical record, health. The parents and puppies are provided the best care including a premium diet and plenty of exercise. CKC German Shepherd pups ready for their new homes. Altvater German Shepherds. If you are looking for a loyal, loving, and devoted companion to spend your days with, Georgia might just be. German Shepherd Dogs in Georgia. Dogs and Puppies, German Shepherd. Every German Shepherd deserves a home. German Shepherd Dog Puppies. Owning a German Shepherd Dog can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it is also a serious responsibility. Learn more 1, puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation Location Color. Vom Dortmunder German Shepherds. Morkie puppy for sale. They were originally bred for herding sheep and protecting flocks and were then used in military settings before gaining popularity by becoming one of the top 3 most popular dog breeds in America. Kindly contact Yuliya by phone or visit the website today for more information about their German Shepherds. German Shepherds are one of the most popular dogs in the United States, and it's easy to see why. Our dogs are all fed a combination of top quality grain-free kibble, home cooked food, high quality moist food, and fresh bones. The Rottweiler is a perfect companion. Pure breed German Shepherds. Prices will vary based on breeder experience, coat color white German Shepherd puppies for sale in GA and type, pedigree, and even gender. We breed, import, train and sell German Shepherd puppies and adults, as well as Belgian Malinois puppies. AKC proudly supports dedicated and responsible breeders. Loyal, obedient, friendly, smart and hardworking, these dogs seem to have it all when you're searching for a new best friend. Our family strives to provide only the finest German Shepherds. Since , we have located loving, permanent homes for hundreds of German Shepherd Dogs in Atlanta and surrounding areas. Proudly bred by Heidi and lovingly raised in our home, located in North Georgia. Sable German Shepherd puppies. We encourage all prospective puppy owners to do their research and be prepared with questions to ask the breeder. Von Anna German Shepherds. Gorgeous one year old female available. Very playful and just a big baby. We expect these puppies to develop into gorgeous, deeply pigmented, highly trainable and intelligent dogs of world-class level. It is a medium to large-sized dog very well known for its strength, trainability, and intelligence. Why Should I Adopt? Adopting a German Shepherd? German Shepherd Puppies for Sale. Welcome to the home of the GSD of Atlanta club! We invite you to join us in exploring one of the world's most versatile breed— from a beloved family member to a working dog or. Tags: akc female puppy georgia german shepherd. Laya is in excellent health, loves people. Easy, transparent and safe: healthy and happy German Shepherd Dog puppies from the best. We invite you to join us in exploring one of the world's most versatile breed— from a beloved family member to a working dog or even a competitive sport dog. Three adorable, pure German Shepherd puppies that were born on July 2nd, , are now mentally and physically ready for a new home. German Shepherd Please contact me for any details. We offer 35 German Shepherd puppies for sale in Georgia. Transportation to Atlanta, GA available. For more information go to georgiamountainsbullmastiffs. These puppies should be born late fall .Make sure to do research on th MORE. Take home date: April 8 - 10th, .Their brains, size, and loyalty make them ideal police and service dogs, but they also make great friends. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. German Shepherds are a large sized dog which generally are 22 and 26 in at the withers and weigh between 49 and 88 lb. Available Puppies sired by. We have several foster homes located around Metro Atlanta and the north Georgia area. Send Us an Email! Full Contact K-9 specializes in all things German Shepherds. Our German Shepherds are the perfect family companion, home protector, service animal, guard dog, police K9 units, narcotics control and lifelong loyal friend. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Atlanta, GA from trusted …. German Shepherd Dog Club of Atlanta. Find German Shepherd puppies for sale. Available Puppies. Find German Shepherd puppies for sale German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. Find for sale by owner for sale in Atlanta, GA. While there, she will be bred to one of the best males in the world. Our puppies are AKC Registered and come with a health guarantee. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. We have deliberately selected larger and straighter back Shepherds to breed. GSDRGA wants every German Shepherd Dog we rescue to become a beloved member of their adopted family, living happy and healthy for the remainder of their lifetime. German Shepherd Breeders Georgia. Our high quality puppies are excellent with children and very easy to train. Our mission is to produce the highest quality German Shephard puppies based on the European standards of breeding. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in Georgia cost? German Shepherd puppies for sale from trusted breeders. When you pick up one of our puppies, you will. Our beautiful long coat German Shepherd, Laya, is looking for her perfect forever home. Pictures: Newborn1 , Newborn2 , 12Days , March 3, 1 longcoat female and 1 longcoat male are available. Female German Shepard. The German Shepherd is a relatively new breed of dog whose origins date back to .Nickname: Felix on PuppyFinder. German Shepherds are quite expensive due to many reasons. When you pick up one of our puppies, you will…. For Sale "puppies" in Atlanta, GA. The Rottweiler is eager to serve and will protect without hesitation. All of our dogs are our companions every day of the week and occasionally. Unfortunately I work 6days a week and barely have the time to enjoy her. GSD Puppies for Sale. Check out our available litters to find the next member of your family! We ensure each dog is highly socialized, family-raised, and genetically tested. Our rescue does not have a shelter facility, instead we utilize volunteer foster homes to care for our dogs until their adoption. Pets Available "german shepherd" in Atlanta, GA. About German Shepherds. German Shepherd Puppies Atlanta Ga. Below is a list of German Shepherds that have successfully found a new home. For Sale "german shepherd" in Atlanta, GA. German Rottweiler Puppies For Sale. Find your puppy for sale in Atlanta, GA. Our mission is to find loving permanent homes for abandoned and surrendered German Shepherd Dogs in Atlanta and surrounding areas. Home Welcome to Tye Shepherds! We are located in Canton which is about 20 miles north of Atlanta Georgia. We have carefully selected world class German Shepherds with proven superior genetics. CKC registered German Shepard puppies. The jaws are strong, with a scissor-like bite. German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. German Shepherd Dog. Owning any dog involves a commitment of time and money. Breed: German Shepherd Dog. Tye German Shepherds - Wednesday, May 10th, .German Shepherd. Find German Shepherd puppies for sale Near Atlanta, GA German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. View our current litters and puppies for sale. German Shepherds are make great family dogs, and are extremely tender and loving to children, especially. Craigslist helps you find the goods and services you need in your community. German Shepherd Puppies for Sale near me. Learn more puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation Location Color Attributes. We have healthy German Shepherd puppies for sale. Without God, none of this is possible. We believe we have a heightened level of accountability accompanying the breeding of German Shepherds. Breed German Shepherd Breed Info. A National Breed Club Parent Club is a national organization that is dedicated to the preservation, protection and advancement of a dog breed. The price can go lower or higher depending on the offer of the breeder. Full breed Czech working blood line puppies AKC registered ,4 males one female. Our experience, knowledge, and love for the breed will help us find the right dog for you. To learn more, click this link to view our Adoption Policies. German Shepherds Puppies. WE offer adult males and females for sale. Atlanta German Shepherd Dog Training. Our experience, knowledge, and love for the breed will help us find the right. Advance K9 GA. Why buy a German Shepherd Dog puppy for sale if you can adopt and save a life? Look at pictures of German Shepherd Dog puppies in Georgia who need a home. For instance, these dogs arent easy to breed, and they need extensive training. Current Litters — Tye German Shepherds. The parents and puppies are provided the best care including a premium diet and plenty of exercise. Breeding to the AKC standard since .Find German Shepherd puppies for sale Near Georgia German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. German Shepherd adoption has changed our lives, and it can change yours, too. Alpharetta, GA .We have found homes for hundreds of happy German Shepherds. Dogs and Puppies, English Bulldog. Georgia German Shepherd Rescue. Reserve Your Puppy Now. Laya was in our breeding program, had two healthy litters. For Sale "german shepherd puppies" in Atlanta, GA. Dogs and Puppies, German Shepherd. Viva is going to Germany in March to obtain her titles and Breedsurvey. Callie will have a litter the end of July going home the first part of September. Males stand about inches at the shoulder and weigh pounds. Find for sale for sale in Atlanta, GA. German Shepherds are one of the most popular dogs in the United States, They have a domed forehead, a long square-cut muzzle and a black nose. The ideal height is 25 in, according to Kennel Club standards. She just turned 7 years old this year. Their brains, size, and loyalty make them ideal police and service dogs, but they. We have German Shepherd puppies for sale from some of the world's most sought after VA studs and proven bloodlines. All our puppies are vet examined before they go home with their permanent family. Ollie is a one year old German Shepherd, weighs around 90 pounds and has medium length coat. We here at Kraftwerk K9 care for and teach these world-class dogs to live up to their full potential. Meet Ridge, the German Shepherd puppy you. German Shepherd puppies for sale. German Shepherd Puppies for Sale. Date : .German Shepherd Cost? Take a look our litters page to see the most up-to-date information and to arrange a viewing of our puppies at our premises in Spring Grove, Illinois. This is Riley, 1 year old male German Shepherd. It will be nice to have a dog that you can easily be around and will keep itself clean. Sign in to your account to message breeders and set alerts for your searches! He is off leashed trained, loves hiking and swimming, good with cats and dogs along with kids. A one year old German Shepherd is nearly full-sized physically, but emotionally they still have a lot of maturing to do. Two boy German Shepards for sale. Father and Mother family pets very healthy and have great temperaments. German Shepard puppy for sale. Loyal, attentive and happy. She is potty trained also crate trained and looking for her forever home. She was just recently detected with EPI exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and is needed to take medicine. You can visit them today in Indianapolis, IN and take them home with a complete cop… more. A German Shepherd for sale is a great way to start a new career and is also something that you can teach your new puppy how to do. German Shepherds for Sale in Indianapolis. Purebred German Shepherds. We call it our PuppySpot Promise. He is off leashed trained, loves hiking and swimming, good For Sale. Puppies For Sale in Butler County .German Shepherd Dog A. She is our family pet who is my husbands best frien Jo D. History: The German Shepherd was developed in Germany during the 19th century, primarily by one man: Captain Max von Stephanitz, whose goal was to create an. She is very loving and good with kids. This is the first litter that our girl has had and she has been an outstanding mother to her boys. Kerry German Shepherd Age: 11 weeks 1 Male, 1 Female Friendly German Shepherd 10 week old pup for sale, both parents can be seen, will grow big and strong. They are playful, friendly, eating well and have great temperaments. Learn more about our certified German Shepherds by calling today at or visiting. At a year old, they're barely recognizable as the fluffy puppy you bought home! How much should a 1 year old German Shepherd weigh? A male German Shepherd typically weighs between 60 and 84 pounds on his first birthday. German Shepherds, like all dog breeds, grow very rapidly during their first year. Take a look at our facility Learn more about our certified German Shepherds by calling today at or visiting our for sale page at the top of the site! German Shepherd Dog. Our ethical breeding facility sits on 25 gorgeous acres of Washington soil and is available for touring before purchase. Dog for sale — 1 year old German Shepherd Posted .Looking for good, fun, loving forever homes. Gentle pets and strong watch dogs, GSDs are noble, large, muscular. Other factors, such as coat color, also affect the pricing of GSD puppies. German Shepherd Puppies for Sale in Missouri. This is the first litter that our girl has had and. Neck is long with strong body constitution and bushy tail. German Shepherd For Sale .Female 1 year old german shepered. German shepherds are mid-large sized dogs with average male height of cm and kg, while female average height is cm and kg in weight. Have been wormed every 2 weeks, microchiped, vaccinated and checked. Been brought up and is currently living with other dogs, cats and children. Eyes are usually medium sized brown with intelligent and lively look while the nose is black. Last active: 1 week ago. Full blooded German shepherd puppies for sale. She will be ready for her new home April .Blue eyes White fur coat Luna would like to have another chance of a family. It will be nice to have a dog that you can. Gentle pets and strong watch dogs, GSDs are noble, large, muscular dogs bred for their intelligence and working ability. German Shepherds For Sale. She needs somebody who can put the time into her, and have her be your best companion. Dexter was so happy on his freedom ride that he licked our volunteers ears the whole way to our vets office. Due to unforseen circumstances it comes with a sad heart to let my girl go, Luna is a 1 year old german shepered, she is micro chipped had her needles and is absolutely great with kids of all ages, she will come with everything she needs it breaks my heart having to do this. At PuppySpot, we know that our exclusive network of breeders produces the best dogs. Find German Shepherds For Sale. German shepherd pups ready to go to their new home. Location : Sandy, Utah, United States. She enjoys walks, runs and playing bring in the lawn. We've had him since he was four months old. Call Katrina in Armada … more. Full bred all black german shepherd puppies for sa. Adult German Shepherds for Sale. That's why every puppy for sale is given a complete nose-to-tail checkup before being delivered right to your door. A dog like this will be great for many years because it is such a hard-working breed. We take pride in raising healthy, well tempered, German Shepherd puppies. Dex came to us from a shelter with his buddy. These dogs make great companions because they are loyal and have the heightened senses of an excellent watch dog. Birth day October 3, 6 French Bulldog Puppies for sale. Georgia German Shepherd Rescue. Older German Shepherd Puppies for Sale. Blue eyes Black-White fur coat On your mark, get set, go! More Info Echo Husky Female 6 year s old 45 lbs. German Shepherds are dogkind's finest herding and guardian dogs. History: The German Shepherd was developed in Germany during the 19th century, primarily by one man: Captain Max von Stephanitz, whose goal was to create an exceptional German herding dog. More Info Luna Husky Female 9 year s old 74 lbs. Female German Shepherds for Sale. I have 1 German shepherd puppy for sale, all black one and she's a girl. Tails docked and dew claws removed. We are pleased to announce that our beautiful KC registered, health tested German Shepard Bella has given birth to 7 beautiful German Shepard babies. I can not manage her medication she is needed to take. She requires a home with individuals that are active. February .Puppies for rehoming Price On Call. She has brown on the back of her legs and feet and the rest of her is black. Male German Shepherds for Sale. We ask that you check back or give us a call to see what might be upcoming! Call Today! He has been raised around kids and with another German shepherd so he is used to being around kids and. Bedlington Individual 8 36 minutes Boost. Female German Shepherd Puppies for Sale. I need to find her a loving house. We then back that up with a full year health commitment. He has been raised around kids and with another German shepherd so he is used to being around kids and other dogs.
E-mail Share by e-mail German Shepherds make great family dogs — they are loyal, intelligent, and have lots of energy! A good diet is key to giving your pet a long and healthy life, and the wrong diet can lead to a number of health problems. German Shepherds are big dogs with active lifestyles, so making sure they get the right nutrition at different stages throughout their lives is essential. Feeding your German Shepherd Puppy Puppies are growing rapidly and have very specific nutritional requirements. Puppy food tends to be high in calories and protein as they are bundles of energy at this age! Feeding your German Shepherd puppy a good quality balanced diet is essential to ensure that they grow up to be healthy adults. There are some foods designed specifically for large breeds such as German Shepherds, which provide extra support for their growing joints. You should look out for these foods in the pet store and ideally choose one of these large breed diets. You can find further general puppy feeding guidelines and advice via the AKC as well as specific German Shepherd facts and info. How often should I feed my German Shepherd puppy? Puppies need to be fed more frequently than adult dogs to support their rapidly growing bodies. German Shepherd puppies should be fed 4 meals a day until they are 3 months old, then reduce to 3 meals a day until they are 10 months old when their growth rate starts to slow down. Once they reach this age, they need 2 meals a day. When should I start feeding adult food? Puppies must stay on puppy food until they reach adult size. German Shepherds are large dogs and tend to reach adult size later than smaller dogs. They are usually fully matured at months. German Shepherds should stay on puppy food until they are months old, then they should move on to an adult diet. Feeding your adult German Shepherd An adult German Shepherd will weigh around lbs and need at least an hour of exercise every day, so their diet needs to reflect this. It might seem like your dog is eating a lot, but they need to replace the energy they burn off and eat enough of the right nutrients to sustain them! How often should I feed my German Shepherd? Adult dogs should be fed two meals a day. When should I switch from adult to senior food? As dogs get older their nutritional requirements change again. They are less active, and German Shepherds are more prone to joint problems such as osteoarthritis. You should consider switching to a senior diet at around 8 years of age. What type of food should German Shepherds eat? Whichever diet you pick, you should ensure it is suitable for large dogs or working breeds and that it has plenty of protein and calcium, and also includes some type of doggy superfoods, too. Commercially prepared foods are the best way to ensure your dog gets a balanced diet with all the nutrients they need to stay healthy, and they come in wet or dried forms. Some dogs prefer one or the other, whilst some enjoy a variety and mix of both. Dry Food Dried food is cheap, easy to feed and store, and has lots of benefits for your dogs. Dogs fed a dried food diet will drink more water, and you can soak the kibble to add a bit extra if you like. Wet Food Wet foods contain more water than dried, and often resemble meat which some dogs love. The food is usually in chunks with jelly or gravy, and some dogs prefer it to dried. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are large and active dogs with demanding nutritional requirements throughout their lives. They go through a rapid growth stage as puppies, and as adults need the right balance of nutrients to replenish the energy they burn off exercising. They need to eat a diet that has the right balance of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients, and ensure they get the right number of meals a day to maintain good physical and mental health. Puppies should eat meals a day until they are around 10 months old then they should eat 2 meals a day as adults. Do German shepherds require a lot of food? German Shepherds are large dogs so naturally, eat larger portions than smaller breeds. They are active dogs and need lots of protein and energy to keep them healthy. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. Shares German Shepherds are graceful, obedient, and loyal dogs with specific nutritional needs. Following a German Shepherd puppy feeding chart will enable you to track the amount of food your puppy is eating as they grow. There are varieties of foods available in the market and most of them come with guidelines at the back of the packaging showing you how much to feed a German Shepherd puppy. This article will cover different types of diets available and the specific nutritional needs of your German shepherd. It will also help you know what to do to ensure that your GSD gets nutritious and balanced food for every stage of their life. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Chart There are three aspects of this German Shepherd puppy feeding chart, namely the German shepherd feeding amount, feeding frequency, and mealtime lengths. It is important to find out the appropriate feeding amount, frequency, and length for your German shepherd without leaving out one of them. That way, you can accurately find out the best way to feed your dog. Overall, there are four ranges that you need to keep in mind. An active dog may require a bit more than the numbers in this list, and an inactive dog will need a slightly less amount. But this guide can act as a solid benchmark. A puppy will need to eat more because they are growing very quickly. Talk to your vet about how much exactly so you keep them healthy and happy. Make sure your German Shepherd has access to fresh, clean water all day. When you take your dog for a walk make sure to bring along some extra water in a collapsible bowl. If they get tired on the way or it gets very hot, this can save their life. So for example, if your dog is 60lbs they should eat between lbs of food in one day. If you notice your dog is losing weight, add more calories to its meal size. However, there are other considerations on how much to feed a German shepherd puppy per day. You might want to consider avoiding meals right before bedtime. Let them digest their food first before they go to sleep. Understanding German Shepherd Puppy Nutritional Needs All dogs require nutritious, satisfying, and healthy food and every breed have their special diet. For maximum energy and health, there are factors to consider when deciding what to feed your German Shepherd: Size considerations- the AKC breed standard says that a German Shepherd can go to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Females can be around 49 to 71 pounds while Males can be around 66 to 88 pounds. This means that they have a big appetite hence it is good to find quality food for them. They grow pretty fast hence they need specific nutrients for specific stages. Activity level- German shepherds are muscular, active, and agile which contributes to higher caloric needs to be complemented by feeding them a high-quality diet. Health consideration- GSDs are prone to many diseases hence a healthy diet will prevent problems. For example, arthritis that is caused by hip and elbow dysplasia can be mitigated through an excellent diet. Ensure that your GSD diet contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. How long does it take for your dog to be full? Is your dog still hungry after eating his portion? German shepherds normally take anywhere from 10 minutes to 15 minutes to finish the meal, given that you followed the proper feeding guidelines properly. If your dog shows signs of slow eating, we recommend sending them to your vet. If you think your dog is already full before finishing his portion, there is no problem. However, if your dog is still hungry after finishing the meal, consider sending him to your vet. This is because this can be a sign of a serious health issue involving their digestive system. They encourage the puppy to chew hence preventing periodontal diseases or tartar. Kibble is less expensive to buy and can stay fresh for longer. See also German Shepherd Gestation Period And Pregnancy Wet food is also essential for puppies because they allow puppies to feel fuller with less food. If your GSD need to shed a few pounds, wet food is a good way to reduce their caloric intake. Wet food is easier to digest, hence they are good for German shepherds with sensitive stomachs. Wet food is appetizing and keeps the puppy hydrated. You need to understand why your puppy cannot eat because it will help you determine the way to deal with the issue. There is no need to worry if the puppy lost appetite shortly and goes back to normal eating without any sign of illness. If the puppy loses appetite and takes a few days without improvement, take your puppy to the vet to find the problem because your dog might be sick. If the vet finds that the puppy is sick, they may suggest a special diet that will boost their immunity and give them extra nutrients to better their recovery. The puppy may have stopped eating because of behavioral issues; therefore, you may need to feed them same time to get a routine. Treats and human food that is given to the puppy may need to be reduced and also you can try different kinds of food. The German shepherd is a medium dog breed according to the AKC. Therefore, free-feeding is not a good idea. For the German shepherds, feeding schedules work better. If the puppies are free-fed the puppy may eat the leftover at any time even when they are not hungry. Sticking to a feeding routine help the puppy to stay healthy and prevent obesity. When you have a schedule, managing their weight and house training will improve. The puppy usually relieves themselves around 15 minutes after eating or drinking, therefore, when they feed at the same time every day and are taken outside after a while, accidents will be minimized. A raw diet is good for German shepherds. A raw diet help improves vitality and energy. The puppy gets healthy white teeth with an increased lifespan and reduced shedding as well as a stronger immune system. Raw meat is a great source of protein and an optimal diet. It is like keto to humans because it allows the puppy to reach their total capacity and good health. Dogs are naturally carnivorous, hence raw diet aligns with their natural needs. However, you should speak to your vet before putting your puppy on a raw food diet. The majority of commercially available kibble food is balanced and complete, and of high quality for your German shepherd puppy. Human supplements often contain harmful substances to animals and are unregulated or minimally effective. Therefore, never give human supplements to your German shepherd puppy. But they can eat small amounts of cooked chicken or turkey, plain cooked sweet potatoes or carrots, plain yogurt, and small amounts of fruits like apples or bananas without getting sick. Talk to a vet for advice on how to feed your German Shepherd puppy a healthy and balanced diet. These include chocolate, fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chives, avocado, onions, nuts, grapes and raisins, garlic, raw or undercooked meat, and bones. These foods can cause a wide range of health problems, from stomachaches to more serious problems like pancreatitis or kidney failure. Some foods that people eat may have a lot of sodium or sugar, which can also be bad for dogs. How much food to give an older German Shepherd will depend on their needs and how much they move around. But as dogs get older, they tend to slow down and may need less food to stay at a healthy weight. As a general rule, an older German Shepherd needs about 2 to 3 cups of food per day, which should be divided between two meals. A German Shepherd that is getting older should eat high-quality senior dog food that is made for their age and size. Senior dogs might also benefit from getting smaller meals more often. If your German Shepherd puppy seems to always be hungry, you should look at what they eat and how often they eat. Make sure they eat enough for their age, weight, and level of activity. Puppies grow quickly and need more calories than adult dogs, so it is possible that they are not getting enough food. Also, make sure you feed them high-quality puppy food that is right for their age and size. If you are worried about how hungry they are or how much they weigh, you should talk to a vet to rule out any health problems and make a plan for feeding them. The amount of dry food you should feed your German Shepherd will depend on several factors, including their age, weight, and activity level. Puppies: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Adult dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Active dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Senior dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. If the dog is obviously overweight or underweight, adjust accordingly. If you can feel most of the ribs without squeezing your fingers in between them — try 1 cup per day. This is a decent starting point for a growing large breed puppy that needs the extra calories to grow big and strong. If you can feel most of the ribs AND see its waist — try 3 cups per day. This is perfect for an adult German Shepherd which needs extra calories due to being very active. With this amount, it will be able to maintain its weight, but not gain any extra fat. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 3. This is a good amount for a very active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain a healthy weight. This should be sufficient for an adult German Shepherd which is quite active. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 5 cups per day. This is a good amount for an extremely active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain lean muscle mass. For example, when my dog was a puppy, he would feel all ribs and see his waist when eating 2 cups of food per day. However, as he got older and larger, I had to increase the amount — even though I could still feel most of the ribs! He maintained around .Although there are lots of opinions on how much food your shepherds needs, these guidelines work for me and my German Shepherds. Everyone is different though, so you will have to adjust accordingly if necessary — this guide should help you until you find the ideal amount. If your dog is a very active one it may need more food depending on its activity level. Always be sure to give plenty of water since dry kibble can dehydrate the animal over time. However, this amount will vary depending on the size, age, and activity level of your dog. Puppies and young dogs, for example, generally need more water than adult German Shepherds. And working dogs or those who exercise frequently may require even more. This is because they can easily hydrate themselves if given free access to water. However, you still need to remember some things. For example, take note that your dog will need to drink 6 ounces of water per day for every 3. Depending on the temperature and activeness, this amount can increase. Lastly, make sure you take extra care in providing water access to your German shepherd. The most preferable way is to fill a bowl with a moderate amount of water, not too much. The feeding amount, frequency, length, and water requirements can always be changed. If you have no time to visit your vet, the following topic may help you. How Much Should A 1-year-old German Shepherd Eat A 1-year-old German Shepherd should eat about two and a half to three cups of food each day, broken up into two or three meals. Pointers for Feeding German Shepherds Improper feeding practices can lead to serious health problems for German shepherds. An owner is responsible for taking into consideration the age and weight of a German shepherd before feeding them. When feeding a german shepherd puppy that is four to six months old, you must give them two meals a day that comprises around eight ounces and five ounces. When feeding a German shepherd puppy that is between seven and twelve months old, the meal amounts should be increased to ten ounces for each meal. This amount should be split into three smaller meals. This is regardless of whether they are active or not. Yep, German shepherds can gain weight regardless of whether they exercise or not. If you think your dog is gaining too much weight, you can split their daily calories into four or five smaller meals. Some people prefer using dry dog food, while others would choose canned dog food. Whatever you choose for your German shepherd is usually okay, but canned food tends to contain more moisture than dry food which may lead to bladder stones in certain dogs. However, when it comes to the amount of dog food you feed your German shepherd, canned food leads to more obesity than dry food. If your German shepherds are over five years old, you must give them an extra meal. This additional meal should comprise around four ounces of food so they can easily digest it during their older age. When feeding a German shepherd puppy, you must know how to correctly measure their food amount. Be accurate when following the proper measurements; otherwise, it could lead to your dog gaining too much weight. Use measuring cups that are specifically made for dry food. If you use any other type of measuring device, it might lead to your dog eating too much or too little food. You must not feed your German shepherd until they are full, but allow them to eat until they are slightly satiated. Do not serve unlimited food; give them about two to three cups of food per day. If you are unsure whether or not your German shepherd is obese, check its waistline. If they have a thick waist and their stomach looks like a sphere, then that is a clear sign that your German shepherd is obese. Never let them finish their meal if they are still hungry; otherwise, you will encourage them to gorge on their food. Your German shepherd must always have access to fresh clean water, so you should ensure they can drink it whenever necessary. Feeding Guidelines by Age Before proceeding with the following points, remember that age is not the only determining factor in a German shepherd feeding chart. Make sure to consider all the content in this blog post as well. It is recommended that you slowly let them adapt first. This can be their regular food from now on. This includes fruits, bones, and more. You should also avoid giving them your leftovers. However, they will need time to adapt. You should also consider feeding your German shepherd foods that can be gnawed and chewed. This is so they can develop their jaws, teeth, and gums. This will result in less feeding amount and frequency. Feeding Guidelines by Weight German shepherds can be of different weight ranges. An average weighted German shepherd 35 kilograms will then need calories per day. This only applies to German shepherds that do not exercise or are inactive. Active German Shepherds: In the case of active German shepherds that exercise regularly, every 1 kilogram equals 55 calories per day. So an average weighted German shepherd will require calories per day to be able to function properly. Take note, however, that this calculation may be affected if the German shepherd has a health disorder concerned with metabolism or digestion. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Guidelines Our last topic involves the difference between a puppy and an adult. The following are some of the facts that recent studies have proven: Puppies have higher energy levels than adults. This means they need to eat more than adult German shepherds. German shepherds will need higher protein and fat content at an early age. The amount of fat and protein will decrease as they grow older. Puppies cannot tolerate too many nutrients. Ingesting extra minerals and vitamins may lead to serious health disorders. Meanwhile, adults are only risking being overweight when taking in more than intended. German Shepherds usually have a good appetite and can eat a lot, especially when they are young and growing. But their food intake should be balanced and right for their age, weight, and level of activity to keep them from getting too much food and getting fat. As they age, they should usually eat less quickly. Most of the time, bones that have been cooked and ground up completely may be safe to eat. Instead, give them dog-made chew toys or treats. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Since German Shepherds consume meat, it follows that they must consume a significant amount of animal protein in order to get all of the necessary nutrients. Although while it is feasible to offer a dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, owners of German Shepherds should avoid doing so since it increases the likelihood that their dogs will not get all of the nutrients that they need. After talking about the feeding amount, frequency, and lengths of a German shepherd, you can now easily plan how much, how many times, and how long you feed your dog. You even learned how to hydrate your German shepherd the proper way. Lastly, we talked about the difference between a puppy and an adult in terms of feeding. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. However, it is still advised to ask for a senior-specific diet from your vet or pet nutritionist just to be safe. If you choose to give your German Shepherd dog homemade foods in all of its life stages, you may need to self-calculate and monitor its daily calorie consumption. Feeding German Shepherds has numerous factors to consider. How much you are providing them is crucial, but knowing how often you need to feed them is essential, too. Initially, feeding German Shepherd puppies begins with four puppy food meals daily. Then gradually, it should be transitioned into three equally proportioned meals a day at two months old. This gradual change should go on until they are 12 months old. After that, they should eat twice a day naturally during adulthood. Young puppies have a faster metabolism compared to adult dogs. In general, the last meal of your puppy for the day should be hours before its bedtime, so they have enough time to digest the food before they go to sleep. As for transitioning puppies to adult German Shepherds, the three meals should be given in the morning, noon, and nighttime, so they may be provided with a full breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This is crucial for their growth, especially if they are active and working dogs. Having a feeding schedule can also help monitor their food intake to avoid weight-related issues. The optimal feeding time for adult and senior German Shepherds would be during the morning and night for their two meals daily. Lastly, as owners, we must seldom give treats to our German Shepherds, preferably only during training. Too much of anything may be bad for your dog. Moreover, it should provide the sufficient nutrients needed for growth and development. There are many commercial dog foods in the market, but you can also offer your GSD puppy homemade dog food or a raw diet. Consulting a vet is strongly advised to give your German Shepherd the best diet suited for its lifestyle. To help you in this dilemma, the list below has dog food options you may want to consider offering to your GSD puppy: Dry Food: Dry food or kibble is a commercial food widely available in pet stores and dog food manufacturers. A number of dry foods are formulated to provide a balanced diet for dogs, but checking their nutritional guidelines and value is crucial since a German Shepherd puppy may need high carb foods. It can be mixed with their dry kibble to add water or moisture to their diet. These kinds of commercial foods are expensive and can spoil quickly, and they may not be enough if fed alone to your puppy. BARF Diet: Biologically Appropriate Raw Food is a type of diet that consists of raw meat, raw eggs, crushed animal bones, fruits, vegetables, probiotics, and other natural ingredients. Raw feeding is given as a substitute for processed foods with preservatives. We know a German Shepherd is a large breed dog. However, males tend to grow bigger and heavier than females, needing more food consumption. A German Shepherd puppy may need to eat at frequent schedules with smaller meals, while adult ones may not need to be fed much often but will need more significant meal portions each time. They tend to eat whatever falls from the dinner table or even whatever food they set their sights on. As we talk about food diets, we must not forget those foods you must avoid feeding your German Shepherd puppy. Generally, they may not be too sensitive to dog foods or ingredients, but other foods may be fatal to them. Coffee is one of the most toxic foods to dogs. They contain caffeine , which causes cardiac arrhythmias, high blood pressure, vomiting, tremors, and seizures. Another toxic food German Shepherd owners should not feed their dog is chocolate. As yummy as this is, chocolates contain theobromine. All dog breeds cannot metabolize this substance. Gums, peanut butter, and candies that contain xylitol are also toxic to dogs. It causes disorientation, hypoglycemia, seizures, and collapse. This is much more threatening than coffee and chocolate, so you need to be extra careful with this. Aside from those mentioned above, there are many other toxic foods you should avoid feeding German Shepherds. They may not be fatal, but they can cause discomfort and progress to severe diseases. If you doubt certain foods or ingredients, you may consult a pet nutritionist or veterinarian just to be sure. Many large breed dogs visit vet clinics due to unmonitored food intake. It only fits a week-old German Shepherd. You may need to mix dry and wet foods at a certain age for your pup, or maybe you want to incorporate raw foods in their adult diet just like many dog owners do. You just have to make sure you know how to do it correctly, and you provide the most nutritious dry dog food or wet food. You should give enough time for your dog to adjust to a new food gradually. Like other shepherd breeds, you should allow a 7-day transition period from feeding German Shepherds their old food to their new diet. If there is discomfort, vomiting, or diarrhea, you may opt to slow down the process even more or consult your vet directly. Feeding an Overweight German Shepherd If you free-feed a German Shepherd, it may likely cause excessive weight gain or obesity. Furthermore, it can easily cause heavy or labored breathing during sleep and irregular movements, such as climbing stairs. Aside from dog food or canned food, a few more factors that can cause an overweight dog breed are table scraps, treats, and not enough exercise. There are a lot of alternatives for treats bought from pet stores, such as fruits and vegetables. These are easier to digest, lighter, and healthier. Eliminate table scraps and leftovers in their diet as they are unnecessary to these large breed puppies. Following a specific schedule with specific amounts of puppy food can significantly help lose weight. Implementing control in their daily meals can help reduce unnecessary food consumption. It is essential to understand that having an overweight dog is more likely caused by the lifestyle owners expose their dogs to. Also, inform family members about the diet plan, so your German Shepherd will not be too spoiled with food. There are a lot of factors why your GSD is not eating. It could be triggered by illness, dental problems , and environmental stress. But it can also be because of adverse reactions to medicines, sudden changes in food, increased body temperature, or your dog just being a picky eater. Do German Shepherds Eat a Lot? As a large breed dog, you can expect a German Shepherd to have a huge appetite. They are always eager to eat, may it be dry food, raw, or canned food. However, it is crucial to know when or how much to feed a German Shepherd to avoid weight problems and severe diseases. Can German Shepherds Eat Bones? German Shepherds can eat bones as it is a great source of minerals. However, there are cons to consider, too. According to AKC, if you want to consider giving them bones, there are certain rules you have to follow, such as giving them raw meat bones and throwing them out after three to four days. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Generally, German Shepherds can thrive and survive on a vegetarian diet, provided that they are supplied with enough nutrients, proteins, fats, and calories on a daily basis. Since German Shepherds are energetic dogs with huge appetites, we must put extra effort into planning out their diet. Options such as dry, wet, raw, and homemade diets are all great for them. Free feeding them or giving too many treats can lead to severe health problems. It is also essential to know what foods are healthy and should be avoided, as some foods are toxic. However, aside from research, we need to consult their vet to ensure that we provide them with essential nutrients for growth, good health, and development in all stages of their life, especially for giant German Shepherds , If you have other tips in feeding a German Shepherd, make sure to share them in the comments below. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to German Shepherd breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. Before the four month mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps: Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed your German Shepherd puppy as they get older. With this rapid growth can come some risks. German Shepherds are susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia, that can start in puppyhood. They will be very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen between 12 and 24 months of age. This is because, being a larger breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. Remember that the more active the pup, the more food they require. While following feeding guidelines is important to avoid over and underfeeding, you can adjust the amounts of food you provide to your dog based on level of activity. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask your vet for guidance. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your German Shepherd puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. For puppies, this amount will often be two of three times higher, as they are more active and growing quickly. German Shepherd puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, German Shepherd puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. However, they can also be at risk of gastric dilatation or volvulus, or GDV. Certain dog breeds can be more susceptible to GDV; particularly deep chested breeds including German Shepherds. GDV can occur when a dog bloats a few hours after eating a meal. Though the exact causes of GDV are not known, grains and cereals are suspected to be contributors. The amount of food you give your German Shepherd is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult German Shepherds, between 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, and 1, per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your German Shepherd based on how calorically dense their food is. German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs who are at risk of GDV may benefit from exercise after eating, to aid with digestion. You should also try to give your German Shepherd a high quality food that is specially designed for larger or working breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. German Shepherds can be particularly susceptible to skin disease or allergies, including canine atopic dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, forms of contact dermatitis, or scabies. If your dog develops a skin issue, it is often a sign that they may be suffering from a form of food sensitivity. If you are unsure about what you should feed your German Shepherd, you should always consult your vet as they will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any allergies or chronic health issues: creating a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Part of figuring out what you should feed your German Shepherd includes deciding between wet, dry, or a raw food diet. Wet food for German Shepherds is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. A raw diet can be a good option for your German Shepherd as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your German Shepherd, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. The amount of food you feed your dog should be determined by their activity levels, age, weight, breed, and size. Any meals prepared for your dog need to contain the right balance of nutrients. You should also be extra careful not to introduce your dog to foods that are harmful to their health. While we might enjoy the taste of nuts, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and onions, these can be toxic for dogs and can cause serious illness and even death. German Shepherds in particular need plenty of exercise as they are a large working breed with a lot of energy. No matter how old your German Shepherd is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.
By: Richard Cussons A healthy Labrador Retriever will normally defecate firm stools once or twice a day. However, if your Labrador Retriever passes semi-solid or liquid stools more often than usual, then he is probably suffering from canine diarrhea. Diarrhea is common in Labrador Retrievers because of their hearty appetites. They tend to eat anything, digestible and non-food objects alike, especially if their owners are not looking. With immediate attention and proper care, diarrhea caused by ingesting foreign objects can be treated within a day or two. Diarrhea has many other causes aside from eating unsuitable objects. It can be caused by intestinal viruses, stomach viruses or intestinal parasites. Problems within the digestive tract such as ulcers, cancer, food allergies and toxins can trigger diarrhea. Health problems not related to digestive tract can also trigger diarrhea. Some of these health problems are liver disease, kidney disease, Addison's disease and anxiety. Always remember that diarrhea is not a disease, but is a symptom of various diseases. It maybe just a symptom but may become life threatening if not treated immediately. For simple cases of diarrhea in your Labrador Retriever, home treatment is enough. Provide plenty of fresh water or oral rehydration fluids to drink provided he is not vomiting. You can also try giving him an ice cube or two every four hours to help him not drink so much water. It is also advisable to put him on fast for 24 hours to rest his irritated tract and feed him only if he appears better after a day. You can start feeding him with small amounts of bland diet every four hours. If your Labrador Retriever appears better after bland diet and small amounts of food, you can gradually return to his regular diet. Severe cases of diarrhea, if it persists more than 24 hours, if there is any blood and if accompanied with vomiting, immediate veterinary care is needed to prevent your dog from dehydration. If there is blood in his vomitus or stool, if he has fever and if it persists for more than one to two days , it could be sign of infection or other diseases. Visit your vet immediately for medication. He will usually recommend drink with electrolytes and dietary supplements such as probiotics for it has beneficial bacteria helpful in restoring the health of the dog's intestinal tract. Serious cases of diarrhea due to infection or inflammation of the intestine may require antibiotics. Lethargy Poor appetite Gums that are pale or tacky to the touch, which can indicate dehydration, anemia or shock Watery poop that lasts for more than a day Deciding Whether To Go to the Veterinarian A puppy with diarrhea almost always warrants a call to your veterinarian. At the very least, this will get you individualized guidance on what home therapies you can try and what doses to give your pup. Puppies metabolize many medications differently than mature dogs, so dosage adjustments may be necessary. When a puppy has loose stool, talking to a veterinarian can also help you determine whether a trip to the hospital is needed. Treatments that are often needed in more severe cases of acute diarrhea include: Fluid therapy to treat dehydration— given under the skin or intravenously Medications to slow down the bowels and reduce diarrhea and fluid loss Medications to manage vomiting Antibiotics to treat or prevent a bacterial infection arising from within the gut Hospitalization and close monitoring for extremely sick puppies Your veterinarian can also run tests to determine why your pup has diarrhea—a fecal examination for parasites or a test for parvovirus, for example. Scoop up some diarrhea and seal it tightly in a plastic bag or container. If you see a parasite or incriminating evidence like a chewed piece of plastic, make sure you bring that too. Puppies, especially those really young and really small, can dehydrate quickly. Make sure your puppy has access to fresh water at all times. Bring it to them if necessary. Entice a reluctant drinker by adding some low-sodium bouillon to the water or a few drops of liquid from some tuna canned in water. Pediatric hydration fluids for human babies work well, too, if your pup will drink them. Stick to bland food. This might be boiled, unseasoned hamburger or white meat chicken with some rice or a prescription diet for intestinal problems that you can get from your veterinarian. Check with your veterinarian to see if you can give any supplements or over-the-counter medications like canned pumpkin, kaolin-pectin or probiotics. A: The reasons why your puppy has diarrhea could include a change in diet, eating something unusual, exposure to toxins, viral or bacterial infections, food allergies or intolerances, intestinal parasites, stress, and other potentially serious health problems. Q: What to give dogs for diarrhea? A: Pet parents have to be careful in what they give for dog diarrhea—some over-the-counter treatments are dangerous if used incorrectly or in the wrong situations. If the diarrhea is mild and not associated with a serious health problem, it may respond to a bland diet boiled white meat chicken and rice, for example and extra water intake. Your veterinarian can let you know whether it is safe to give your puppy canned pumpkin, kaolin-pectin, probiotics and other supplements or medications. Q: How long does puppy diarrhea last? A: Puppy diarrhea can last for just a few hours, or it may persist for days or even longer. Always talk to your veterinarian if puppy diarrhea lasts for more than a day or two or if it is associated with vomiting, lethargy, weakness or any other symptoms of disease. Q: Does puppy teething cause diarrhea? A: Many pet parents report that puppy teething seems to be associated with diarrhea. However, diarrhea during this time can still be serious enough to require veterinary care. Teething puppies will often chew on and swallow almost anything they can get their mouths on. Also, the immune systems of young puppies who are teething are not yet fully formed, so they are at higher risk for the bacterial and viral infections that can cause diarrhea. Q: Is blood in my puppy's diarrhea an emergency? Call your veterinarian immediately for advice. Q: Why does my puppy have diarrhea after changing food? Whenever possible, make dietary changes over the course of a week or two. If you suspect your pet is sick, please call your vet immediately. For health-related questions, always consult your regular veterinarian when possible as they can make the best recommendations for your pet. If you need help finding a vet near you, use this link. Rates may differ for those residing outside the U. You'll have access to a vet for 7 days. How to Treat Your Dog's Diarrhea at Home There are times when your dog may be off, and you can manage their diarrhea without a trip to the veterinarian. Rest Just like with us, rest is important. Give your dog a quiet and comfortable place for them to recover. It is likely best to be a place close to a door to go outside, and that has an easy-to-clean floor for those unfortunate poop accidents. Fasting Ideally, fast your dog for 12 hours to allow their gastrointestinal tract to rest and recover. This means NO treats, regular meals, snacks — food of any kind. During this period of time, you can give your dog rice water. The benefit of rice water over plain water is that it may help improve digestion, help alleviate gas and bloating, provide some beneficial minerals, and the carbohydrates provide some energy. You want to use good quality white rice not minute rice. Brown rice is not recommended since it has too much fiber. How to make rice water Ingredients: 1 cup of White Rice 4 cups of Water Instructions: Boil 1 cup of white rice in 4 cups of water for 10 to 30 minutes maybe longer until the water turns a creamy white color. Remove the liquid and allow it to cool. Save the cooked rice for later use. Once cooled, give it to your dog as often as they will consume it. Discontinue if your dog starts vomiting and contact your veterinarian. For those dogs not interested, you can add a couple of teaspoons of low sodium chicken broth powder or dog-safe bone broth be sure it does not contain any onions or garlic. Personally, I think the stuff tastes terrible and would prefer the rice water! I do not recommend Gatorade because it is high in sugar, and that can cause further intestinal inflammation. There are electrolyte solutions made specifically for pets , as well. After Fasting Once you are past the first 12 hours of fasting, you can begin offering your dog small amounts of a bland, low-fat, and easily digestible diet. Bland Diet Options 1. Plain, boiled, boneless, skinless chicken and rice the leftover from the rice water. Chicken or turkey baby food be sure it does not contain onions or garlic — the links we provided are pet safe baby food choices Serving Size Example: A small breed dog can be offered a tablespoon or two every hour for a couple of hours. Then allow them to rest for a couple of hours. If there is no vomiting or worsening symptoms, you can slightly increase the amount. You will end up feeding smaller portions more frequently than what is their usual feeding routine. It is always helpful to regularly keep a couple of cans or packets at home. The Under the Weather bland diet does not require a veterinary prescription, so you can buy some ahead of time and keep it just in case. They have many flavors , so be sure to pick the one that matches the protein your dog is currently on, i. During that time, continue feeding small amounts every 3 to 4 hours. If the diarrhea goes away, then over another one to two weeks, you will slowly transition them back to their regular dog food diet. Do not give treats or any other food than their regular dog food. Once they have been transitioned fully back to their regular dog food for a couple of weeks, then you can begin slowly offering extras such as their treats. If you switch back to your dog's regular food too quickly, and don't leave enough time for healing and reduction of inflammation, you could end up right back where you started. Other Things That Can Help With Diarrhea In addition to rest, fasting, and a bland diet, there are some other things you may find helpful in dealing with diarrhea issues at home. Probiotics Probiotics may be helpful when dealing with diarrhea. Probiotics help support a healthy immune system by keeping the intestinal bacteria in good balance and aiding in digestion. It acts as a prebiotic because it stimulates the growth of beneficial bacteria by lowering the pH and providing the nutrients they need. Additionally, it helps inhibit harmful bacteria in the intestines. Always be sure that your dog has access to plenty of fresh water when giving them fiber supplements. In the case of stress-induced diarrhea, starting a fiber supplement a few days prior to the stressful event can help prevent the diarrhea from starting. Psyllium fiber can be purchased over the counter as whole husks , in products like unsweetened, unflavored Metamucil , or this dog-formulated fiber brand Serving: 1 teaspoon for smaller dogs and up to 3 teaspoons for larger dogs, once to twice daily mixed into food. You can also grind the psyllium fiber finer if you want to. Additionally, read the labels to be sure they do not contain xylitol — it is very toxic to pets. Catnip Many households have dogs and cats — if your cat is willing to share their catnip , it may help with your dog's diarrhea. Catnip, when used in moderation, is safe for dogs and can actually be beneficial to them. Since catnip is a plant, it is made up of different elements that can benefit your dog. It contains vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, tannins, and oils. With that said, do not give your dog catnip cat toys. This can result in choking or a potential intestinal obstruction. Catnip has been found to have a sedative effect on dogs. However, this only occurs when they eat it, and a little goes a LONG way. Unfortunately, it is hard to predict its effects. Additionally, some dogs can become hyperactive instead of sedate. Catnip has been found to help some dogs with indigestion, cramps, diarrhea, and gas. Again, only a small amount is needed. Use the calculator below to figure out how much catnip your dog should get. Always start at the lower end of the range since your dog's reaction cannot be predicted. For example, if your dog weighs 30 pounds .For the high range, divide .So, a 30 lbs dog would get between 1. Catnip Calculator for Dogs Enter your dog's weight in either pounds or kilograms to calculate catnip dosage. Preventing Puppy Diarrhea Puppy diarrhea is, unfortunately, a reality of pet ownership. Puppies do not have fully functioning immune systems, so they can be a little more sensitive to changes and potential sources of infection than their adult counterparts. Mild cases of diarrhea may go away quickly on their own, but other causes—including infections and parasites—can be a sign of a serious problem. Here's what to watch for and how to know what your next steps should be when your puppy has diarrhea. Some of the most common reasons for diarrhea in puppies include environmental factors, infections, and parasites. Hopefully this helps you find answers to "Why does my puppy have diarrhea? Moving into a new home, meeting new people and animals, learning to walk on a leash , vet visits and vaccinations , that first encounter with the Roomba. All of these experiences can cause stress, and your puppy may get diarrhea because of that. Diarrhea related to stress usually occurs within hours to a day of the stressful event, and generally resolves quickly on its own. Ask your puppy's breeder or previous owner what brand and formula of food she is used to eating, and start off by using that same diet. If you want to switch to a different food, do it gradually over several days, starting with just a little of the new food mixed in with the old and increasing the ratio of new food over time. Some dogs may have food intolerances or, less commonly, allergies to specific ingredients. These can also cause diarrhea. Identifying a food allergy or intolerance is a time-consuming process and will require guidance from your veterinarian. Some common parasites that can infest puppies include roundworms, hookworms , whipworms, tapeworms , coccidia, and giardia. Parasites are most commonly transmitted through poop a dog with worms poops out eggs and larvae, a puppy sniffs poop and inhales them. But some, such as roundworms, can be transmitted from mother to puppies through the placenta. As well as having diarrhea, puppies with parasites may have distended bellies, bloody diarrhea, appear thin, or be lethargic. Sometimes you may be able to see worms in the poop. Your veterinarian can c heck your puppy's stool for worm eggs and other parasites. Always bring a sample along if your puppy is having diarrhea. Once the offending parasite is identified, your vet can prescribe the best deworming medication to resolve the issue. Being treated for worms or other parasites does not prevent your puppy from getting them again, however. Remember how parasites are often spread through poop? Be sure to thoroughly clean your yard, removing all poo to minimize the number of parasitic worms living in the soil and environment. Otherwise, your puppy can reinfect herself from her own poop. All puppies should be on a regular deworming schedule starting while they are with the breeder. Most veterinarians recommend continuing regular, long-term deworming, such as with a monthly product. Dietary Indiscretion and Toxicities Like toddlers, puppies love to put their mouths on anything and everything. Eating the wrong thing can cause diarrhea in a couple different ways. This could range from feasting on the garbage leftover from your cookout to swallowing a chewed-up tennis ball or munching on your amaryllis plant. Eating an excessive amount of rich or fatty foods can cause stomach upset. In cases like these, your puppy may vomit or appear uncomfortable as well as having diarrhea. If your puppy has eaten something toxic, exact symptoms will vary depending on what and how much she ate. If you suspect your puppy has eaten something toxic, or are unsure about the potential threat of her illicit snack, contact an animal poison helpline such as the ASPCA Poison Control Center or the Pet Poison Helpline , , immediately. These services do charge a fee, but it's well worth it to have access to the most up-to-date information on toxicities in dogs. Even nontoxic non-food items can be problematic if they get stuck in your puppy's gastrointestinal tract and cause a blockage. Besides having diarrhea, a puppy with an obstruction may vomit, be lethargic, refuse to eat, and have abdominal pain. Viral and Bacterial Infections Parvovirus, often referred to as simply "parvo," is a diagnosis that strikes fear in any puppy owner's heart. This virus is highly contagious and wreaks havoc on your puppy's immune system and body, causing severe diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, anorexia, fever, and lethargy. Treatment consists of supportive care to help your puppy fight the disease and target symptoms. A puppy with parvo will likely be admitted to the hospital for intravenous fluids to keep her hydrated, medications, and round-the-clock supervision from her veterinary team. Parvo is often fatal, especially if treatment is started too late. Thankfully, there is an effective vaccination for parvo, and it is included in the routine puppy series. Your puppy will receive several rounds of the vaccine depending on her age. It's essential to get your puppy to her booster appointments on time; even one missed vaccination can leave her unprotected. Once she has finished her puppy series, the following year she can either get a one-year or three-year vaccine. Avoid places with other dogs, such as dog parks, boarding kennels, and popular dog-walking spots until she is fully vaccinated. Only allow her to interact with dogs who you know are vaccinated. If your puppy does get parvo, she will need to be kept away from unvaccinated dogs and puppies to prevent spreading it to them. Besides viruses such as parvo, your puppy can also get bacterial infections in her G. Common culprits include clostridium, E. Your puppy can pick these up from eating rotten food or poop from an infected animal. As she matures and her immune system finishes developing, she will be less susceptible to these tiny invaders. Puppy Vomiting and Diarrhea Vomiting and diarrhea are a dangerous combination. Both cause your puppy to lose water from her body, leading to dehydration. Dehydration can cause permanent damage to her internal organs in a matter of days. If your dog is experiencing this one-two punch of vomiting and diarrhea, you'll want to call your vet right away. When to Call Your Vet If your puppy has diarrhea but is still playful and normal, there is no need to panic. It will likely resolve on its own. Here are the signs to call your veterinarian to schedule an appointment: Diarrhea that lasts more than a day Bloody or black stool. Some cases of diarrhea may be more stubborn to manage, but understanding the causes of diarrhea is key to knowing how to stop dog diarrhea. Here are the simple steps you can take … Fast Your Dog If your dog develops sudden diarrhea, stop feeding him for 12 to 24 hours. Once the diarrhea has stopped or slowed, you can offer small sips of water. If you see signs of improvement after 6 hours of water only, you can give your dog some broth. Give Probiotics Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that can be used to naturally prevent and treat a wide range of health problems, including diarrhea. Probiotics provide your dog with valuable postbiotics like butyrate and lactic acid. They help reduce inflammation, one of the core causes of diarrhea. The best probiotics for dogs with diar r hea are: Saccharomyces boulardii: S boulardii is a beneficial yeast that has been shown to be effective in antibiotic-associated and viral diarrhea. Bacillus subtilis: B subtilis help the colon absorb more water, which helps control diarrhea. Combined with Enterococcus faecium, it can also reduce the severity of symptoms in more chronic cases of diarrhea … including inflammatory bowel disease and colitis. Pediococcus acidilactici: Combined with B subtilis and other probiotics, P acidilactici was shown to significantly shorten the recovery time in dogs with gastroenteritis. Lactobacillus acidophilus: This tried and tested probiotic is another staple for treating diarrhea in dogs. S boulardii and B subtilis should be at least 1 billion CFU colony forming units. L acidophilus and Bifidobacterium probiotics should be at least 30 billion CFU. Start your dog on probiotics as soon as you see symptoms and continue the probiotics for several weeks after symptoms resolve. They can also be given long-term to help prevent future episodes of dog diarrhea. Diarrhea Soup Recipe Transitioning back to a regular diet is an important part of dog diarrhea treatment at home. Once the diarrhea has resolved, introduce food slowly to help prevent further tummy upset. Here is a simple recipe you can make at home: Place three to four chicken thighs in six cups of water. Add chopped celery and carrot if you like. Remove the skin and bones and set the meat aside. Strain the broth and let it cool before serving. Wait 4 to 6 hours and watch for diarrhea or vomiting before offering more. More Home Remedies For Diarrhea There are many safe and effective herbs you can give your dog to speed up the healing. Diarrhea is usually the result of an inflamed and irritated intestinal lining. These herbs and foods can help solve the cause of both acute and long-standing dog diarrhea. Slippery Elm Slippery elm is a gentle herb that soothes the mucous membranes. Give slippery elm with food. L-Glutamine L-Glutamine is an amino acid that heals intestinal cells. You can give it alone or with other supplements. Give mg per 25 lbs of body weight daily. Marshmallow Root This is another useful herb for soothing the gastrointestinal tract and decreasing inflammation. If your dog is healthy and has a strong immune system, the diarrhea should resolve in 2 or 3 days. If your dog still has diarrhea and seems sick … work with your holistic vet to find out how to treat dog diarrhea. References Herstad HK et al. Effects of a probiotic intervention in acute canine gastroenteritis—a controlled clinical trial. Blaabjerg S et al. J Small Anim Pract. Paap PM et al. Antibiotics Basel. B Mounika et al. Effect of probiotic formulation containing Bacillus spp. Plus get new recipes delivered right to your inbox. She's a sought-after speaker and loves to help dog owners give their dog a healthier, more natural life. Dana also breeds Labrador Retrievers under the Fallriver prefix and has been a raw feeding, natural rearing breeder since the 90's. Dana works tirelessly to educate pet owners so they can be the driving force to change veterinary medicine for dogs and make their world a safer place. Visit Dana's Labradors at Fallriver Labs. Weakness Signs of dehydration Sunken dry-looking eyes, dry nose, or dry, sticky gums If your pooch is displaying any symptoms that cause you concern, contact your veterinarian. Your vet will let you know whether your pet's symptoms indicate that an examination is necessary. How to Treat Diarrhea in Dogs Never give your dog medications formulated for people before consulting your vet. Many human medications are toxic to dogs and could cause further health complications for your pooch. If your pup has had one or two runny or soft stools, you may want to give your dog some time to recover by simply fasting for 12 - 24 hours. A bland diet for 24 - 48 hours may help to resolve your pup's issue. Plain-cooked white rice with a little chicken and some canned plain pumpkin not pumpkin pie filling may help to make your pup's tummy feel better. Once your pooch feels better gradually reintroduce their regular food. Other things that might help to soothe your dog's upset tummy include natural yogurt, probiotics, peeled boiled potatoes, cottage cheese, egg with no oil added, specially formulated dog foods, and medications prescribed by your vet. When it comes to your pup's health it is always best to err on the side of caution. By taking your pooch in for an examination you give your vet the opportunity to determine the underlying cause of your pup's diarrhea and recommend the most effective treatment. Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet. Chronic diarrhea is a serious health concern for dogs. Contact our Cordova vets at Germantown Parkway Animal Hospital today if your pooch is suffering from diarrhea, we can help. Looking for a vet in Cordova and Greater Memphis area? We're always accepting new patients, so contact our veterinary hospital today to book your pet's first appointment. These are symptomized by vomiting, excessive drooling, regurgitation, constipation, and diarrhea, among other signs. An example of a GI anatomical issue that causes Labrador diarrhea is intussusception, a condition in which a segment of the intestine inflates into the opening of an adjacent part of the intestine. Intussusception can occur if your Lab swallows foreign bodies, has viral intestinal infections, untreated intestinal parasites, or intestinal tumors. Your Labrador Has Been Exposed to Toxins Toxins that can cause diarrhea in dogs include: Pesticides: Most pesticides have arsenic which can poison a dog if ingested and cause symptoms like diarrhea. Drugs: They include human drugs for diarrhea that contain bismuth subsalicylate a derivative of aspirin and salicylic acid. According to Preventative Vet , these drugs, including Kaopectate and Pepto Bismol, can be toxic for your dog, especially if given in the wrong doses. They include: Acute hemorrhagic diarrhea syndrome: This condition refers to sudden severe bloody diarrhea accompanied by vomiting and has the potential for fatal dehydration. Acute pancreatitis obstruction: This condition is a reversible pancreatic inflammation that can come with high-fat diets, hereditary factors, or trauma and has diarrhea as one of the clinical symptoms. Other Factors That Cause Runny Poop in Labradors Other factors that cause Labrador runny poop include: Garbage toxicosis or eating toxic foods such as grapes and chocolate, overeating, or eating spoilt food. Ingesting foreign objects such as toy pieces, a piece of clothing, or a piece of a stick, known as pica. Indulging in too many fatty foods or table scraps. Reaction to antibiotics and other drugs. Stress or anxiety. As such, any owner with an affected Lab will be wondering: How do I stop my Lab from having diarrhea? Fortunately, there are several options you can use to prevent and treat Labrador diarrhea effectively. Fast and Hydrate Your Lab Diarrhea, especially acute, can have severe effects on the stomach, including inflammation and the strain of rushed bowel movements. Fasting means not giving your Lab any form of food, including treats, snacks, or main meals, for at least 12 hours. If your dog can handle it, you can feed him a bit of rice water water from boiled rice once in a while to provide a bit of energy and minerals. Your dog should start this diet 12 hours into fasting. Gerber Baby Foods is one of the best brands, with no added salt or artificial colors and flavors. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet from Amazon can be used for dogs with either long-term or short-term diarrhea. Also, always consult with your vet about the choice of bland diet for your Lab with diarrhea. In that case, you can preempt this from happening by giving it fiber supplements before it gets exposed to stressful experiences like going to the vet. These can prevent stress-induced diarrhea from starting. Psyllium fiber is an over-the-counter option contained in products like Metamucil. The fiber supplement comes in capsule and powder form and should be given with plenty of water. That means a healthy gut is crucial in preventing and curing diseases and conditions such as diarrhea. Probiotics help stabilize the acidic conditions in the GI by facilitating the release of short-chain fatty acids. Like fiber supplements, you can give probiotics before a stressful event that can trigger diarrhea in your Labrador. A chewable probiotic tablet such as the Purina FortiFlora Probiotics for Dogs from Amazon is suitable for dogs with diarrhea. Keep Your Lab off Human Food Your Labrador might always succeed in convincing you to give it some of your plate contents with its puppy dog eyes. Nuts: You want your dog to stay away from nuts, especially pecans, almonds, and walnuts which contain high amounts of fats and oils. Salty snacks: These snacks can cause sodium ion poisoning. Coffee and chocolate: They contain methylxanthines, a substance that can trigger diarrhea. Coconut, coconut water, and coconut oil: These foods are high in potassium and should be kept away from your Lab. You can read more about this topic here, What Foods are Poisonous to Labradors? These include: Fennel seed.
Do Labradors Sleep Through the Night? There may be a lot of causes, though, if your dog sleeps more than 15 hours each day. Age, breed, amount of activity, and environmental circumstances are just a few of the multiple variables that affect how much sleep your dog needs. If your dog appears to be sleeping more than usual, analyze any environmental changes. Minor lifestyle adjustments for your dog might have a major impact on how they sleep. You might be curious as to why your Lab sleeps so much. If you have a smaller dog, it could seem like they are sleeping more or more than you are used to. The following are some reasons for changes in the sleeping pattern of your Labrador. Diet If your pooch has begun sleeping more since changing its food, nutritional variations could be the problem. Large dogs like Labradors typically sleep for 12 to 14 hours each day source. Your Labrador will probably sleep even longer if it is a puppy or an older dog. Weather It can be the case that the hot temperature has been making you feel exhausted if the weather has gotten hotter where you are. In this situation, providing it with access to shaded areas, water, and a cool room throughout the day would be beneficial. It would also be beneficial to walk it in the early morning or late evening when it is cooler. Aside from that, it would be beneficial to keep it out of the sun as much as possible to prevent heatstroke. Illness It may have been sleeping more recently due to a disease. That would be more likely if it had more recently started to sleep and had been displaying other symptoms of illness, such as weariness while up. It would be better to take it to the vet in this situation. Boredom Its tendency to sleep more might be because of boredom and lack of stimulation. A lot of daily activity is suggested for the breed of Labradors. It is often advised that they exercise for an hour each day. Click here to learn more. Activity Level Does your dog like frequent strolls across the park? Or does your dog prefer to sit on the couch? The American Kennel Club AKC estimates that a puppy that is highly active when awake may require up to 18 to 20 hours of sleep each day. Less active dogs, on the other hand, often sleep for just around 14 hours daily. No matter how active your dog is, the best strategy is to spread their exercise throughout the day. Dogs often want to snooze frequently to rejuvenate. Aging Puppies and senior dogs typically sleep even more. Puppies sleep more because they are quickly growing and because sleep is when their muscles are rebuilt. Older dogs sleep more because getting around takes more energy and they become weary more quickly. Click here to find out. Since they are young, being separated from their mother may make them feel lonely and afraid. Throughout the night, they could also need to feed or go outside a few times. Before assuming that the dog can sleep through the night, you will need to allow them some time to acclimate. They will eventually quit complaining and keeping you up at night so they can sleep through the night like everyone else. But you might be wondering when this is going to happen for those new pet owners who are sick of waking up in the middle of the night. When a Labrador Retriever reaches the age of around four months, pet owners may anticipate that they will begin to sleep through the night. They have reached an age where they can successfully sleep through the night and are less likely to need to get up in the middle of the night to obtain attention or for any other reason. The simpler it is to encourage the puppy to accomplish this milestone, the more of a foundation you provide for them early on. Each puppy may react differently to being in your house, and some may take a little longer to sleep through the night. 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. To help them do this by sleeping during the night, make sure to establish a routine with the puppies so they learn when to sleep when to play, and when they can go potty. Tips to help your Labrador puppy sleep: Establish a nightly routine if you can establish a routine for the whole day as it will help the puppy adjust faster Keep the sleeping area dim and quiet Don't get the puppy energetic before bedtime avoid the temptation for a late evening playtime session Prepare for interruptions barking , howling , or potty breaks during the first few weeks of their life 10 Weeks Old At about 10 weeks old, the puppy is likely still adjusting to its new home and only just starting to get used to the nightly routine. They will sleep for about 16 to 20 hours each day. At this stage of their life, your puppy should start getting better control of its bowels, meaning you shouldn't have to take it out during the night as often as you have in the past few weeks. They may even be able to sleep through the night without a bathroom break. During this period, make sure to mainly focus on helping your puppy learn its nighttime schedule, as it is still difficult for it to learn at this stage. Trying to teach too many things to the pup at once can overwhelm it and rove to be unsuccessful. Your puppy should be getting around 11 to 15 hours of sleep every day. It is at this age that you are going to have to worry about the dog's temperament. However, if a good schedule was established for the puppy with time for naps throughout the day, you shouldn't have to worry about a rowdy or energetic pup during the night, as it knows when bedtime is. At about 6 months old your Labrador puppy will be sleeping for about 12 to 14 hours every day. By this stage in your Labrador puppy's life, it should no longer be barking, howling, or need to go to the bathroom during the night as you have established a routine and it has had plenty of time to learn it. With Labradors, make sure to give them plenty of exercise during the day so that they use up the stores of energy they have, or they can develop health problems and an irregular sleep schedule. Giving your Lab something to chew on before it goes to bed will also help it use up its excess energy and sleep better through the night. Now that it is an adult, it requires less sleep and will usually sleep for around 8 to 13 hours a day. This is a positive for Lab owners as they are monophasic sleepers , which means that they only have one sleep period. This means that if you have established a good routine for your Lab, you will be on the same sleep schedule. This is nice as most dogs are polyphasic sleepers , separating their periods of sleep into two or three chunks throughout the day. So, your Lab will still take naps during the day, but they will likely occur while you are at work or are out and about during the day. Example Routine For Labrador Puppies The following is likely what your Labrador's schedule will look like, including its naps. Morning Schedule: Wake up and take the puppy outside to relieve itself Feed it breakfast Give it another potty break it is typically that puppies need to relieve themselves after eating Socializing, playing with your puppy, or taking on a walk Ideally for 30 to 60 minutes Nap Time Expect about 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on age Potty Break. He started off in the corner of our room on his bed with a dog gate surrounding him so he couldn't get out. As he got a little older, he would be able to get out of his fenced area we created it was just two pieces of a gate that connected to form the whole one and get out on his own when he needed to go to the bathroom or wanted to wake up. Since he was already staying in his bed the whole night anyway, we decided to not use the fence thing anymore and now he stays in his bed with out the gate pretty much the whole night until we wakes up, which is typically ish. Sometimes he will get up a little earlier and lay somewhere else in the room or chew his bone in his bed until and we are ok with this too, as long as he isn't doing anything wrong. He still gets up a bit earlier than we would like by about minutes but that's also because we are going to bed earlier than we used to. But we are ok with it. It gives us more time to spend with him before we leave him for work. Also, his chewing on things has gotten so much better since his early puppy days, so we haven't had to worry about him chewing stuff in the bedroom lately. I like having him in the bedroom with us. It's hilarious seeing him trot to his bed and plopping down when we tell him to go to bed and it's really hilarious when we wake up and his tail is wagging all the way outside to go pee. Click to expand.It is lovely isn't it? Chewie is always so infectiously happy in the morning that even my OH who is really not a morning person is happy to see him at 6am! So, where should your Lab puppy sleep? A Labrador puppy should sleep in a crate or dog bed. The easiest option is a crate as you can control his environment better, and it also helps to toilet train your puppy quicker. If you choose a dog bed, partition off an area of the house using baby gates or a playpen. As a first-time dog owner, I took the sound advice of my breeder. He told me that a crate is the easiest way to train a pup to sleep well — and for faster potty training! Although I could hear my puppy cry once in a while during her first night, after that, she was fine. This is quite normal, and your dog will soon get to love his crate — he will recognize it as his special place where no one else is allowed! Here are some helpful tips to help your Labrador settle in his crate and sleep well, especially on his first night: Make sure you buy the correct size. Use a divider to partition the crate in half. As the crate will be too large at first, you can use a divider to adjust the size as your Labrador grows. I like the Midwest Homes for Pets iCrate from Amazon as it has everything you need and comes with an all-inclusive divider and wipe-clean removable tray. You can also choose either a single or double door that is handy. Cover half of the crate with a blanket. Situate the crate close to your bedroom. A quiet area for sleeping is best, not too far away from your bedroom, so you can hear your pup if he needs to go outside during the night. Or you can choose to put it right next to your bed if space allows. If you put the crate in your bedroom, you can transition to another part of the house after a few weeks. I chose to put the crate at the end of the landing as I am a light sleeper, and I hate having my sleep disturbed! Remember, dogs have different sleep cycles from humans! Check out this step-by-step guide to learn tons more on crate training, Easy Labrador Puppy Crate Training. Check out my recommendations for the Best Dog Crates for Labradors and Playpens , including soft crates, travel crates, and furniture styles. If your Labrador puppy is having a tough time sleeping through the night, you may wonder exactly when they might be able to master this new skill! Labrador puppies typically sleep through the night by 4 months old. At this age, they should sleep between hours. If you lay the foundations on the first night, your puppy may be able to achieve a night without waking up sooner. It can also help if you have a good routine and are an early riser. Here are some helpful tips to speed up the process of getting your pup to sleep through the night: Routine. Dogs thrive on routine, so ensure you establish a good bedtime routine. Potty breaks. Make sure you allow your pup to go potty right before bedtime. However, young puppies may need to go outside during the night while their tiny bladders develop. Interactive puzzle toys are also great for mental stimulation. Crate training. You can learn what to do instead in my article all about common Labrador behaviors. But are you wondering at what age your Labrador can sleep with you? This allows him to be fully potty trained and sleep through the night without having to go potty or cry for you. This interesting study compared human-canine sleeping with adult-child co-sleeping and evidenced that both shared similar benefits and drawbacks. Remember, dogs who are territorial or aggressive should not sleep in your bed. Some of the most common health benefits of sleeping with your Labrador include: An overall reduction in depression and anxiety. Increased feeling of security. Provide companionship and decrease loneliness. Reduced stress. Lowered blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglyceride levels. A decrease in hypertension. Cons of Sleeping with Your Labrador Of course, there can be negatives to allowing your Labrador to sleep with you in your bed. Labs are also heavy shedders, and you may find pet dander uncomfortable. Your dog can sometimes carry harmful germs. It may affect your relationship! If you sleep with a partner, allowing your dog to sleep in your bed can cause friction and disruption. Although you may suffer from disturbed sleep if you sleep with your dog, you are unlikely to be affected by his night-time antics if you are a deep sleeper. Indeed, this study from The Mayo Clinic looked at the sleep of 40 healthy humans and their dogs occupying the same bedroom to find out whether sleeping together was detrimental to sleep. Human sleep quality was lower if the dog slept on the bed rather than just in the room. Nonetheless, even if you allow your Labrador to sleep with you, only let him onto your bed when you say so. Your dog should not have free reign of your bed, which can hinder how he views the pecking order. But what about modern dogs? Do Labradors actually like sleeping with their owners? Most Labradors like to sleep with their owners as a sign of affection and closeness. Dogs are social animals and instinctively want to sleep with you as they like to be close to their pack, and you are the head of the pack! They also want to protect you and display their loyalty and trust. Some dogs might get too hot on your bed and may temporarily move onto the floor to cool down. Some might not want to sleep with you at all! Always have another place where your Labrador can sleep, such as a bed or crate nearby where he can get warm and cozy. Can a Labrador Puppy Sleep Outside? Labrador puppies grow very quickly, which leaves some pet owners wondering when would be the right time to transition their pooch to an outdoor sleeping area. But can a Labrador puppy sleep outside in the first instance? Labrador puppies can sleep outside, but not until they are between months of age. They also need to be socialized, trained, and spend time bonding with their family. The health risks around this become more precarious in extremely hot or cold temperatures. The same goes for the rarer long-haired Lab. Your Labrador is more at risk of diseases and parasites. Until your pup has received his vaccinations to keep him healthy, he is more vulnerable to illnesses and parasites. Immunizations are typically not completed until 16 weeks, so training him to sleep outside sooner than this may compromise his health. Your Lab needs to be socialized and trained. All puppies must be socialized, obedience trained, and allowed to bond with their family. Without proper socialization, you risk your Lab becoming fearful, reactive , nervous, or even aggressive. To ensure that your Labrador puppy is healthy and safe when sleeping outside, there are a few things you should always make sure he has. These items include: A doghouse. This provides your puppy with a safe space to feel safe and snuggle down. I would definitely have this Petmate Dog House from Amazon on my wish list! A bit pricey, though! Water bowl. Make sure your Lab has his favorite water bowl filled to the brink every night. Favorite toys. To make your puppy feel comfortable and relaxed, put his favorite toys wherever he sleeps outside. When all is said and done once your dog has matured, it is a matter of personal choice. Here are the key takeaways from the article: You may choose to let your new puppy sleep at your side. When he has grown, you can let him sleep on your bed. He needs to be fully house-trained and at least six months old. The benefits of sleeping with your Lab are security, bonding, and mental health. Negatives include disturbed sleep and an increase in your allergy symptoms. Most Labradors like sleeping with their owners. You can transition your dog to sleep outside between months of age. Related Posts You May Like:. Where do dogs sleep? Dog sleep patterns are fascinating things. They have what is called polyphasic sleep, where they have periods of wake and sleep that occur during both the day and the night. And help you to understand the changes that occur in different stages of their lives, including when they are unwell. How Long Do Dogs Sleep? Dogs have a sleep pattern known as polyphasic. This means that they have multiple periods of sleep scattered throughout the day and night. A feature that they share with many other mammals. Dogs have better night vision than we do. So their ancestors could hunt both by day and by night, if necessary. In fact, hunting at night may have given them some advantages. It is easier to creep up on your victim under the cover of darkness. Dog Sleep Patterns Sleeping all night had no advantage for dogs, so dogs did not evolve a natural tendency to sleep for a single long stretch of time like we do. Instead, they acquired the useful ability to get as much sleep as possible, often in short stretches, whenever there is nothing much going on. You may have noticed that your dog wakes up instantly and is ready for action right away. And living with humans means that most dogs do learn to sleep the night away without disturbing their human family. Though they may wake and move around briefly during this period of time. If your dog is not sleeping through the night and disturbing your sleep, consider whether he is getting enough daytime activity and stimulation. Dogs have retained their ability to sleep whenever life gets dull. Studies of guard dogs have shown that dogs are not disadvantaged by being woken up frequently or working in changing shifts. They simply sleep when they get the chance. But how many hours sleep does a dog need during each 24 hour period? Dogs naturally sleep for longer periods of time each day than people do. But just like humans, sleep needs vary among individual dogs. Sleep needs also vary among different dog breeds. Adult Labradors will sleep for well over half of every 24 hours, and puppies under four months old may sleep as much as 20 hours a day. The reason for all this sleeping may have to do with a special type of sleep called rapid eye movement, or REM, sleep during which dreaming takes place. Do Dogs Dream? Dogs certainly appear to dream in the same way that we do. And their brains behave in a similar way to ours during the sleep cycle. REM sleep is just one phase of the sleep cycle that both dogs and humans experience. A study published in showed that REM or dreaming sleep decreases as dogs get older. So it looks as though puppies dream more than adult dogs. Sometimes when fast asleep, your dog will make twitching and running movements with his paws, and some dogs will give little yips and barks. This is a normal part of deep REM or dreaming sleep. Studies have also shown that if the part of the brain that de-activates movement during sleep is removed from a dog, the sleeping dog will actually carry out the behaviors that he is dreaming about. Let Sleeping Dogs Lie! We know that in humans, REM sleep is important. Being deprived of REM sleep can cause unpleasant effects, and there is no reason to think that dogs are any different. It is important to allow your dog to sleep deeply when he wants to and to not interrupt his sleep when he starts dreaming. Some veterinary specialists speculate that dogs sleep more than humans because their REM sleep is often interrupted due to their ability to wake easily and quickly and be ready for action. Because of that wakefulness, dogs need more periods of sleep in which to get an adequate amount of REM sleep. If you are worried that your dog may be ill because he is sleeping so much, ask yourself what has changed. Is he sleeping a lot more than he was just last week? Or has he always slept this much? Is he bright and bouncy when he is awake? Does he have a good appetite? Or does he seem lethargic or uninterested in food? Excessive sleeping in a dog that is eating well and full of energy when awake is unlikely to have any significance. And some elderly dogs tend to sleep more than they did when they were young. Make a Special Sleeping Space Your Labrador, like all dogs, is able to awaken quickly from sleep and be ready for action, whenever an opportunity presents itself. However, constantly interrupting his sleep is not a good idea. While many confident dogs will sleep pretty much anywhere, it is important that every dog has his own sleeping space. A place where he can go and relax when he wants to. Even if your dog shares your bed at night, he should still have a bed somewhere in the house that he can call his own. It needs to be somewhere free of drafts and comfortable, preferably lined with a cozy mat or blanket. Elderly Labradors may need thicker padding to support their joints. Orthopedic dog beds can provide extra comfort. It is here, in his special space, that your dog can relax fully and sleep deeply. Dogs naturally sleep for long periods of time, and sleeping a lot is nothing to worry about in a dog that is active, enjoying his food and living life to the fullest. Just like people, dogs need deep REM sleep, and constantly interrupted sleep can be harmful. You can check out crate information here: The benefits of a dog crate.
We are an Australian labradoodle breeder specializing in authentic top quality Australian Labradoodle puppies in mini, and medium sizes. Sharing our puppies with families since , we have established our breeding program with fully tested breeding stock that can be traced back to the very earliest bloodlines. Located north of Dayton, Ohio in the rural area of Conover. We have shared our puppies across the US. Check out our available puppies page to learn about each one Latest News September Puppies available! Head to our available puppies page to see who is waiting to be your next family member! Available Puppies Boarding Available We are now offering boarding for our puppy families. Now taking reservations for fall. Spaces limited call Boarding Information Offering in home- training Did you know our trainer offers an in home board and train program? Get a head start before puppy goes home. Here our puppy will stay with the trainer and learn basic obedience, house training crate training, learn proper manners and receive lots of socialization to people and places. Why us Superb Temperament Australian labradoodles are known for their amazing temperament. Our love for this breed began with our first Australian labradoodle, Georgia pictured below in the snow. She taught us what the Australian labradoodle was all about. With her intuitive connection, and sociable personality, we fell in love instantly and so did everyone who met her. She was a joy to train, willing to please, gentle, and just as funny as she was affectionate. Due to their extreme willingness to please and ability to train, a percentage of our dogs have gone on to do therapy and service work. Nourishing Environment Puppies like babies need nurturing and human interaction. We are asking them to live in our world so the more human experiences they can have before going home, the easier the transition. We utilize Early neurological stimulation, Early Scent Introduction, Puppy Culture, a 10 step handling exercise, as well as extensive socialization to raise the most well-balanced dogs. All of our dogs are fed a high quality, all natural diet, for maximum health. We believe in a holistic approach to the well being of our dogs, and they are minimally vaccinated. Excellent Health While we have a strong emphasis for temperament, having a sound, physically healthy puppy is of upmost importance. Healthy puppies begin with the parents. Our breeding dogs have to meet strict requirements to enter the program. We start with carefully selected breeding stock coming from a controlled breeding line. Our Labradoodles have allergy friendly coats that are non-shedding, and we love helping people with allergies add to their family. As a registered member of the Worldwide Australian labradoodles Association, WALA our breeding program along with hundreds of other programs across the world, are dedicated to ethical breeding, and continued focus on the improvement of the Australian labradoodle breed. Worldwide Australian Labradoodle Association We are grateful that we are able to raise and share these gentle, fun-loving, and intelligent dogs with others. I would love to hear from you! If you are interested in bringing one of our Australian labradoodle puppies home, or have additional questions not included on our website, please contact Kristina. I grew up with dogs in our family from a very early age, and always wanted to have a career involving dogs! I went to university to become an Elementary School Teacher and later found myself in Mansfield Ohio with my husband Marc to raise our two children. In , an opportunity to become a dog groomer presented itself, and since then I have developed a successful mobile dog grooming business serving the Mansfield, Ohio area and I decided to retire from teaching in .Our first dog together was Jasmine, a Golden Retriever. Since Jasmine, we've had a couple other wonderful dogs but our love for Labradoodles started when we purchased Layla, an F1b Labradoodle. She stole our hearts and put into motion researching the breed that turned into Providence Labradoodles. This breed is extremely clever, sociable, comical and joyful! They are energetic when free, and quiet when handled. They approach people in a happy, friendly manner and make amazing therapy and service dogs as they are keen to learn and easy to train. Their amazing qualities made it very easy to concentrate only on breeding this wonderful breed! Our puppies, like our dogs, are raised in our home with lots of human contact. Our puppies are started with a focus in socialization, constant love and a nuturing environment to ensure that they will have loving and easy-going dispositions. My goal is to provide a family with a loving companion, whether a house pet, therapy dog or service dog! It is so important to me to raise well rounded and happy puppies that will make wonderful companions. We adhere to high-quality standards when it comes to our breeding dogs. Each breeding dog is carefully chosen, tested for orthopedic conditions outlined by OFA Orthopedic Foundation for Animals as well as genetic conditions prior to breeding to ensure that our puppies will be healthy. Aside from being healthy, our breeding dogs are loving, kind and have amazing temperments that will be passed down to their offspring! Our Australian Labradoodles are non-shedding, allergy-friendly, and asthma-friendly. They are sweet, smart and provide hours of entertainment! Providence Labradoodles wants the best for all involved. A well-loved, well socialized and well trained puppy promises years of delight. You can read more about our dogs and puppies on the " Meet Our Dogs " page and " Puppies " page. These puppies are a mix between Labradoodles and either an English Cocker Spaniel or an American Cocker Spaniel which means you will be getting the best of all the breeds when it comes to their coat type and temperament. Australian Labradoodles are known to be very intelligent and are one of the more popular breeds for families. Providence Labradoodles pups have playful, gentle, and calm temperaments meaning they would be a great addition to any family with children. Our puppies are all-around happy dogs that just love to be around their families. With over 20 years of experience, we have shared our Labradoodle Puppies with families across this Country, and around the world. As an Authentic Australian Labradoodle Breeder, we offer our Riverbend Australian Labradoodle puppies in Miniature sizes lbs , Medium sizes 45lbs , and Standard sizes lbs. Because of our years of experience and success with our English Style Labrador Retriever Breeding Program , our Riverbend Labradoodles are stocky, heavy-boned, and have a beautiful, blocky style of head that gives them a soft, intuitive expression. We are so blessed to be involved with a fantastic Worldwide Labradoodle Breed organization, bringing together nearly Breeders from the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia that are dedicated to protecting the breed we love so much. We are honored at the opportunity to help protect and promote the breed we love so much with our participation in these organizations. Our commitment to quality and accountability to these organizations offers peace of mind in purchasing one of our Australian Labradoodle puppies. Our Labradoodles have allergy friendly coats that are non-shedding, and we are dedicated to helping people with allergies add to their family. Our Labradoodles are known to have a laid- back, easy-going temperament, and are great family companions. They are intelligent and easy to train, and typically finish at the top of their obedience classes. Here at Riverbend, we have made it our focus to protect the health and future, while maintaining the integrity, of the Labradoodle breed. Our carefully planned breeding program is dedicated to Quality, not quantity. We believe it is of utmost importance to have OFA hip, OFA elbow, ACVO eye clearances, and also breed specific health clearances, as well as Champion Quality pedigrees within all of our dogs' bloodlines, to ensure we have the healthiest Labradoodle Puppies possible. Take a look at Our Dogs. All of our Riverbend puppies are raised in our home for proper socialization and handling from birth. Our home is designed for our puppies to live with us, so we can provide a healthy environment, to build the foundation that will help them grow to their full potential. Paying attention to how a puppy grows, from the day he is born, is important for the very health and vitality of each puppy. And, we believe that the first eight weeks of a puppy's life, is of vital importance in determining his later behavior as an adult. We share our Australian Labradoodle Puppies with loving caring families, and you can be confident that our puppies are handled continuously, are exposed to our everyday life, and everyday noises, to create a positive social experience that will enable them to become lifelong companions. We hope that you enjoy our website and find it easy to navigate, helpful, informative, and fun. If you have any questions or would like more information about this fantastic breed, please feel free to contact us by phone or email. We love sharing our Riverbend Labradoodles with others, and welcome all inquiries concerning them. Support an American Company and Small Business! We are confident these products are the best for your furry family member and we refuse to use anything else!
how much is pug puppy - Articles There are people who love tiny dogs, and there are those who prefer keeping huge dogs. Giant Poodles are sometimes known as Royal Poodles. Breeders usually refer to these dogs using these terms so that they can charge more for them. If you are one of those people who prefer huge dogs and are particularly interested in the Poodle breed, this article will furnish you with all the information you need to know about Giant Poodles. Giant Poodles are Poodles that fall on the higher extreme of Standard Poodles. The term giant is only used by breeders. How Big Are Giant Poodles? The term standard is used to refer to any Poodle that is over 15 inches in height and weighs over 45 lbs. The average Standard Poodle measures about 22 to 26 inches at the withers and weighs between 60 to 70 lbs. In comparison, Giant Poodles measure about 25 to 32 inches at the withers, with their weight falling between 70 to 90 lbs. This makes them visibly larger than most Standard Poodles. Appearance Apart from the differences in size, there is no other physical difference between Giant Poodles and other Poodles. The Giant Poodle is a well-proportioned canine with dark, oval eyes, large and wide ears that hang close to the head, a narrow skull with a distinct stop, and a long neck that allows them to carry its head high. Giant Poodles have a deep and moderately wide chest, a straight and level topline, and a dense coat with curly hair. Giant Poodles have a wide variety of coat colors, including red, apricot, black, white, brown, silver, and cream. Research shows that larger dogs generally have shorter lifespans than small dogs. This does not, however, apply to Giant Poodles. Giant Poodles have a similar lifespan to other Poodles, so you can expect your Giant Poodle to have a life expectancy of about 10 to 15 years. Giant Poodles are still at risk of suffering from diseases and conditions that affect other Poodles. Some common health issues among Giant Poodles include: Bloat Bloat, also referred to as gastric dilatation volvulus , is a potentially fatal condition that is very common among large-sized dogs. Actually, this is one of the most common health issues that Giant Poodles die from. Hip Dysplasia This is another condition that is very common in big dogs. Hip dysplasia results from the failure of the head of the thigh bone to fit snugly into the hip joint socket. The best way to avoid most of these conditions is to ascertain that proper checks were conducted before breeding occurred. Dietary Requirements Due to their large size, Giant Poodles have high energy requirements, and therefore, you need to make sure you are feeding them enough food. Giant Poodles will require about 4 to 5 cups of high-quality food daily, given twice a day preferably in the morning and evening. So, what is the best dog food for your Giant Poodle? Our top recommendation is Pet Plate dog food. We love the fact that all their recipes are expertly created by a vet nutritionist to ensure that their food delivers a balanced and nutrient-dense diet for your fido. Tartar and plaque are also known to cause lots of dental issues for Poodles, so we recommend that you invest in dental water additives to minimize the risk of dental problems. Exercise Requirements Being a big dog with loads of energy, your Giant Poodle will definitely need lots of exercise and stimulating activities. Make sure they get over an hour of physical activity every day. You can bring your Giant Poodle with you on morning runs, long hikes, walks around the block, tug of war, you name it. In addition, Giant Poodles are excellent swimmers, which means that you can also give them adequate and enjoyable exercise by taking them to the beach. Are Giant Poodles Aggressive? They are friendly, social dogs and will hardly ever get aggressive toward people or other pets. They are sometimes reserved towards strangers, but even then, it is very unlikely for Giant Poodles to get aggressive. Yes, Giant Poodles have lots of energy and thrive best in situations that allow them to burn off this energy. This means that Giant Poodles are best suited for people who have active lifestyles. If you hardly ever get out of the house, or if you hardly ever have time to spend with your canine buddy, the Giant Poodle is not the right dog for you. In addition, they are not a stubborn breed. This means that training a Giant Poodle is easy, especially if you start the training early enough. However, you will need to keep varying the training; otherwise, the Giant Poodle can easily get bored and stop responding to training. Are Giant Poodles Needy? Another notable thing about Giant Poodles is that, despite being giants, they are needy dogs that need constant love and attention. Giant Poodles thrive best when they are next to their owner or family members and are not good at handling loneliness. If you routinely leave your Giant Poodle by themselves, they can develop separation anxiety, get depressed, and start chewing on things like carpets and furniture. This makes them a great choice for people looking for hypoallergenic dogs. Brushing Giant Poodles are not high-maintenance dogs, despite having dense, luxurious coats. All you need to do is simply brush them regularly. In addition to being safe for your furry buddy, the FURminator Undercoat tool also has an ergonomic handle that is comfortable for your hands. Removes loose hair: reaches through the topcoat to remove loose undercoat hair without cutting skin or damaging the.FURejector button: just push the button to release hair with ease. Check Price on Amazon Bathing You will also need to give your Giant Poodle a bath from time to time to prevent dirt from accumulating on its coat and to keep the coat healthy and shiny. A good rule of thumb is to give your Giant Poodle a bath every three months. To avoid skin sensitivity problems, always bathe your Giant Poodle using shampoos that are formulated for dogs and have the right pH balance for your dog. Giant Poodles will often be slightly more expensive than other Standard Poodles. You should also keep in mind that you will incur other costs when purchasing your Giant Poodle, such as vaccination costs, microchipping costs, and licensing costs. Giant Poodles are simply Standard Poodles that are bigger and heavier compared to the average Standard Poodle. Whereas the average Standard Poodle is about 22 to 26 inches tall, Giant Poodles are between 25 and 32 inches tall. Giant Poodles are also heavier than the average Standard Poodle, weighing in the 70 to 90 lbs range. While it is possible for a Giant Poodle to kill you, the chances of this happening are exceptionally low. Giant Poodles are not dangerous. They are friendly and adorable dogs, just like any other Poodle, with the only difference being that they are bigger in size. They are gentle giants. Z Giant Poodles belong to the standard breed and they are the tallest of all poodle types. They have an iconic curly coat and are much larger than normal-sized poodles. Considered a symbol of elegance and luxury, they overflow with confidence and pride. With proper training, they behave well in public and are perfect watchdogs for kids. Z Giant Poodles are affectionate, loyal, friendly, and quick-witted, making them ideal companion dogs. Pooch Size Poodles are classified into three sizes by the American Kennel Club: toy, miniature, and standard. Breed registries classify dog sizes based on their height rather than weight. Standard Poodles or Z Giant Poodles are the largest, standing around 15 to 21 inches tall at the shoulder, and weighing 45 to 65 pounds. Toy and Miniature Poodles are small and mid-sized poodles respectively. Z Giant Poodles are simply larger-than-average poodles. Males are notably bigger than females. Z Giant Poodles may reach remarkable heights of around inches at the shoulder and a massive weight of pounds, equivalent to the Bernese Mountain dog. Poodle Colors All poodles have scaled replicas of one another. They are known for their flamboyant-curly groom and surprisingly low-shedding coat. When selecting poodles to breed or own, a range of colors is available from which to choose. Solid color The most prevalent solid color for poodles is black. They are also available in a variety of solid hues, including white, apricot, blue faded black , brown, cafe au lait shiny light tan , cream, silver, silver beige, red amber , and gray. Parti-color A parti-colored poodle has a coat that is mainly white but mixed with almost more than half of another color splashed in irregular patches. Secondary colors can be black, silver, beige, cream, or red. This makes the coloration of each parti poodle unique and interesting. Mis-mark In contrast to parti-colored poodles, a mis-mark has a primary coat of any other poodle color with less than half of white hair scattered around the chin, chest, neck, paws, and tip of the tail. Phantom Most Z Giant Poodle owners preferred these colored poodles which are born with specific markings in one color imprint on a background of another solid color. Z Giant Poodles are sharp and learn quickly, these were the first poodles to be bred primarily for work and are known to be composed and focused on the field. Depending on their heritage, Z Giant Poodles exhibit differences in temperament and personality. Generally, they are an energetic and obedient, protective but not aggressive breed. These attributes make them great watchdogs. These dogs may look well-poised, but they are active, fun-loving, affectionate, and friendly with their families and other dogs. With proper training and positive reinforcements, Z Giant Poodles behave well and learn their place in the family.
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how much is pug puppy - Oh, the humanity! Fret not, this article should shed a bit more light on this uncommon occurrence, why it happens and how it affects you. What are normal purebred German Shepherd eye colors? Different shades of brown, green, hazel …and blue are normal eye colors. But green, gray and hazel-colored eyes are also normal. More importantly, although blue eyes are rare, depending on the circumstances, they can occur naturally in German Shepherds. The recessive gene or a mutation therein, is typically the main reason as to why every once in a while, a black German Shepherd with blue eyes comes out of a German Shepherd litter of mainly brown-eyed offspring. If you still remember your biology class back in high school with your teacher endlessly droning on about Gregor Mendel and his genetics work, then worrying about your black German Shepherd with blue eyes is a textbook example of this application. German Shepherd eye color changes happen much in the same way that eye color changes happen in normal dogs. Recent research has shown that the amino acid melanin is chiefly responsible for lighter or darker shades of eye colors in dogs. Melanin also determines coat color. More on this later. Is my German Shepherd still a purebred if it has blue eyes? Yes, but not necessarily. To understand why blue-eyed purebred German Shepherds are such a controversial topic, it pays to know why purebred dogs are so highly-valued. Continuing on this line of thinking, blue eyes are a common trait inherent to the Siberian Husky breed and may be a telltale sign that your German Shepherd is not purebred. Purebred dogs are typically associated with the following traits: Well-socialized Prone to suffer genetically-acquired diseases Typically the only kinds of dogs recognized and supported by kennel clubs While mixed-breed dogs are known to exhibit the following: Prone to suffer fear-based behavior problems Have a higher risk of contracting infectious diseases Generally accepted as being more hardy than purebreds It is important to note, however, that white German Shepherds also known as White Shepherds are recognized as their own breed, and should not be confused with mixed-breeds or an offshoot genetic mutation. See also The German Shepherd Dachshund Mix Breed Guide And Information If you find cause for concern regarding your white German Shepherd with blue eyes or any kind of dog with unusually colored eyes for that matter , do some research, reach out to your local vet and inquire about genetic testing for your pet. Is it normal for German Shepherd eyes to change color over time? Melanin as a contributing factor to German Shepherd eye color change was a fact mentioned earlier. This happens because melanin takes time to produce. Because this is the case, it is not uncommon for a baby German Shepherd with blue eyes to have its eye color change over the course of a few months. On the same note, it is normal to find puppies with blue eyes regardless of breed because of this lack of melanin. In addition, it should also be noted that other eye conditions may result in eye color changes for your German Shepherd. All the more so if your German Shepherd is a puppy! More often than not, there are plenty of conditions that account for German Shepherd eye color changes or blue eyes outside of breed. See also The Blue Heeler German Shepherd Mix Breed Guide On the downside, this may mean that there is a small chance your German Shepherd is experiencing some kind of degenerative eye disease or disorder. But in any case, with the advent of modern technology, it should be easier than ever to inquire about your German Shepherd with blue eyes, including requesting genetics tests. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Jul 22, Share You have probably seen a cat or husky with blue eyes, but have you ever seen a German Shepherd with blue eyes? Probably not. To learn more about German Shepherds with blue eyes, read on. This article covers everything you could possibly want to know about German Shepherds with blue eyes. The majority of both purebred German Shepherds and mixed German Shepherds have brown eyes because it is the dominant trait. In contrast, the blue eye color is a recessive trait. For a recessive gene to appear, both parents must have the same trait. Interestingly, the recessive trait that causes German Shepherds to have blue eyes is also found in humans, but it is simply more common in humans. Thus, the German Shepherd has a bluer appearance, and its eyes are blue instead of brown. Although it may sound weird that blue eyes are blue due to lack of pigmentation, the same is true of human blue eyes. Whereas humans with blue eyes can come in all sizes and races, German Shepherds with blue eyes tend to look the same, but they look different from the classic German Shepherd. German Shepherds that end up having blue eyes are called Blue German Shepherds. A Blue German Shepherd can come in three colorations, including blue and black, blue, and dark brown, and blue and tan. Often, the blue and black coloration makes the dog appear dark gray all over. It is considered very rare for German Shepherds to have blue eyes. Not only must the German Shepherd have the recessive gene, but it also must have blue eyes. Plus, most breeders prefer not to waste time breeding Blue German Shepherds for reasons we will discuss next. This recessive gene can be seen in other dogs, such as Dobermans. In Dobermans, the gene can cause the dog to have certain skin conditions. In German Shepherds, there is no negative health link between the recessive gene and the dog. That being said, many breeders avoid breeding Blue German Shepherds because kennel associations view them as a defect. What this means is that you cannot present your German Shepherd at dog shows because the blue coloration is a fault. Of course, you can always find a Blue German Shepherd if you want one specifically and have no intention of showing it. Final Thoughts If you have seen a German Shepherd with blue eyes, you have seen a real treat. German Shepherds can have blue eyes only if they have the recessive gene. Even though the gene is not associated with any health defects, kennel associations view the color as a defect and most breeders view it as a waste of time to breed these dogs. Despite the rarity of blue-eyed German Shepherds, they will bring you just as much fun, love, and companionship as a classic German Shepherd. Related Reads:. This recessive gene dilutes any black pigment on the dog including coat color, nose leather, foot pads, toe nails, lips, etc. It also affects their eye color. Blue pups have a beautiful light gray coat as babies, as they age however is usually darkens up quite a bit, the ones that darken up are called "steel" blues. To the untrained eye, they can be mistaken for regular blacks. There is also "Powder" blues, they tend to lighten up in color and always stay a very noticeable gray color. Powder blues are not seen very often. A blue pup with sable markings We have a couple blues and a few dogs who carry the blue gene. We choose these dogs first and foremost because their temperament, structure and health aligns with the goals of our breeding program. A beautiful unique color is just icing on the cake of an already exceptional dog. Our non-traditional color lines have some of the highest hip ratings in the US! We have produced non-traditional colored GSDs that compete in obedience, agility, nose work, etc. I personally love the non-traditional colored German Shepherds. These colors are been in the breed since the beginning and our foundation girl Rose just happened to be a blue! A German Shepherd can have blue eyes due to a genetic defect that causes one or both eyes to be a different color. Their piercingly blue eyes have little to no effect on their temperament, so you can expect the same characteristics as a typical German Shepherd. Watch This NOW! The genetic site that causes the blue color is the D dilute locus. The diluted pigment lightens coats from black to blue. It causes, in effect, a watered-down version of black. The two alleles connected with dilution are D dominant full color and d recessive dilute. It takes two recessive alleles dd to lighten black pigment to blue. In simple terms, both parents must carry and pass on the recessive D gene for a German Shepherd to have blue eyes. It is, therefore, impossible for a blue-colored dog to have any black on its coat. While these dogs are beautiful, the American Kennel Club classifies their eyes as an issue, docking points or refusing to let them rank in conformation. So although blue-eyed German Shepherds can enter events, they are seldom seen. This causes controversy among owners of blue GSDs, who often feel discriminated against. A German Shepherd with blue eyes is extremely rare because both parents must carry the recessive D locus gene, home to the dilution gene. When a dog is homozygous for dilute, a black dog will become blue. So it is highly uncommon to get two mutated copies of the gene that causes blue eyes. While many dog breeds can also lose pigmentation in their eyes to make them look blue, a German Shepherd can have truly blue eyes, albeit unique. German Shepherds with blue eyes can be purebred or mixed. This trait is much more common if mixed with a husky since these dogs can naturally have blue eyes. However, a purebred German Shepherd can have light brown, dark brown, golden, hazel, or blue eyes without another breed in the mix. Send a quick sample and find out if your pup is mixed or if his blue eyes are a purebred genetic rarity. All GSDs have striking features, but adding blue eyes makes them even more beautiful. Blue-eyed German Shepherds can also be quite confident and brave. When raised in the right household, these dogs will feel proud of themselves and their territory. Common Health Problems German Shepherds with blue eyes are prone to hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, and digestive issues as they age. All of these health concerns can be minimized or managements with the three following tips: Healthy food is crucial from birth through their senior years. German Shepherds need up to two hours of exercise daily. Attention and affection prevent the anxiety that can cause stress, seizures, and blood pressure problems. I also recommend you invest in a good orthopedic bed suitable for large breeds as they help prevent mobility issues and ease pain and discomfort caused by arthritis. Some owners might be concerned that blue eyes in a German Shepherd cause additional health concerns. But are blue eyes in the German Shepherd breed a health concern? These lovely dogs are just as healthy as the standard brown-eyed German Shepherds. Their health predictability is based on their genetics, diet, activity, and affection. So what causes the confusion? Some dogs, such as the Australian Shepherd, Border Collie, and Great Dane, carry the M-locus Merle gene that causes mottled white patches of fur, solid or piebald, on the face and body. Breeding two Merle gene carriers is, therefore expressly forbidden and deemed inhumane. However, this presents an opportunity to bring a gorgeous pup into your home. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. The few with blue eyes owe their eye color to a recessive gene that needs to be inherited from both parents. Blue-eyed German Shepherds can have two blue eyes, or they can be odd-eyed with one blue eye and one brown eye. Dogs with odd eyes are sometimes described as having heterochromia. A Blue German Shepherd is one with a color variation caused by a recessive gene. It dilutes black pigment so the fur will appear blue-gray or silver-gray rather than black. On the other hand, powder blue German Shepherds have lighter colors. Blue GSDs can be blue-and-black, blue-and-tan, or blue-and-sable dark brown. Strangely enough, Blue German Shepherds can appear in litters containing prototypical black-and-tan pups. While the blue color is a normal variation, both the AKC and many breeders consider it a defect of sorts. Well sometimes at least… The Dog Breed Info website includes a list of dog breeds that are known to have blue eyes on occasion. While all puppies are born with blue eyes, the breeds listed can actually retain their blue eyes as adults. A German Shepherd mix can inherit blue eyes from the GSD parent, or from the non-Shepherd parent if the breed has been known to have blue eyes. These dogs, which are also known as Siberian Shepherds or German Huskies, often inherit blue eyes from their Husky parents. Generally speaking, blue-eyed German Shepherds are as healthy as their brown-eyed relatives. There are, however, some unfortunate exceptions. While this sounds harmless and even attractive, dogs that inherit the merle gene from both parents often have birth defects. Mating two carriers of the merle gene is thus considered inhumane and strictly forbidden. However, a German Shepherd mix can have the merle gene. Such examples of breeds affected by the merle gene include the Australian Shepherd, the Collie, the Great Dane, and the Shetland Sheepdog. An albino dog will thus not only have pure white fur, but the skin around their nose and eyes will be a very pale pink. The eyes may have some pigment and be a very pale blue, or have no pigment and appear pinkish. The pink color is actually due to the blood flowing beneath the skin. Albino dogs of any breed are generally healthy, but they are very sensitive to light and are vulnerable to both sunburn and skin cancer. Are White German Shepherds Albino? In most cases, no. That gene has two alleles or versions: white and non-white. White is recessive, so a puppy would have to inherit the trait from both parents. One big difference between white German Shepherds and albinos is that the gene for albinism affects the skin and eyes as well as the coat. Those that do have blue eyes are the result of another recessive gene. Cataracts, for example, cause the lens of the eye to become cloudy and appear to be a hazy blue. Glaucoma can also make eyes appear cloudy blue. Yes, German Shepherd puppies are born with blue eyes! In fact, all puppies are born with blue eyes, no matter what breed their parents are. This is because the reason behind puppies having blue eyes has nothing to do with inherited genetics. Blue eyes are caused by a lack of melanin in the irises. It is natural for puppies to be born with this imbalance, as melanin is something that develops as they age. This is why puppies are born with blue eyes but will grow out of them by the week mark. But, the irises are never really blue. They are actually clear, but they appear to look blue. However, some dog breeds can retain blue eyes as they grow older. Full-blooded German Shepherds can have blue eyes, however, this is very rare. Blue eyes in German Shepherds are caused by a genetic mutation in the breed line, as the majority of German Shepherds will have brown eyes. However, this genetic mutation does not mean that your German Shepherd has something wrong with them. In some dog breeds, blue eyes can be a sign that something is wrong with your pet. But, German Shepherds are one of the few dog breeds where blue eyes are relatively common. So much so that a sub-breed is recognized for these German Shepherds with blue eyes. So yes, full-blooded German Shepherds can have blue eyes, and these dogs are just as healthy as any other kind of German Shepherd. How much is a German Shepherd with Blue Eyes? As German Shepherds with blue eyes, or blue Shepherds as they are otherwise known, are relatively rare, you can expect to pay more for them than a regular German Shepherd. This is because blue Shepherds are viewed as a premium dog breed. They are very rare, so when a breeder manages to breed this type of German Shepherd successfully, they will want premium prices for the puppies. Additionally, you should expect to pay higher prices for a German Shepherd that has a single blue eye, as this is also considered premium. Does a Blue eye mean a Dog is blind? No, a blue eye in your dog does not mean that your dog is blind, or that it is going to go blind at some point. Blindness is rarely the cause of this. You might also think that blue eyes are a sign that your dog is deaf. This is probably because blue eyes in cats have been linked with deafness. So, no blue eyes are not a sign that your dog is blind. In fact, there are no health concerns linked with blue eyes in dogs, it is simply a genetic mutation. Often used by police forces and militaries due to their physical strength and protective nature, the German Shepherd has also become a household favorite for millions of Americans. But can these dark-eyed beauties have blue eyes instead? A German Shepherd can have blue eyes, though this rarely happens. German Shepherd puppies are almost always born with blue eyes, but they grow out of this stage within a few months. Genetic mutations or cross breeding practices may also result in a blue-eyed German Shepherd Dog. In most of these instances, the blue eyes fade into dark brown eyes over time and are only seen in very young pups. However, in some rare cases, blue eyes have been seen in purebred, adult German Shepherd Dogs. This pale coloration is the result of an extremely uncommon genetic mutation carried by both breeding parents. The only other way to get a German Shepherd with blue eyes is to crossbreed it with a similarly-sized dog with naturally blue eyes. Still, dark eyes tend to be dominant over light-colored eyes, so the chances of breeding a puppy with mixed German Shepherd genes and blue eyes are minimal. Generally, blue-eyed German Shepherd Dogs fall into one of three categories. This biological certainty means that virtually all German Shepherd Dog puppies will be born with blue eyes. Well, for most growing puppies and adults, this is the truth. But GSDs are the product of more than a century of inbreeding, and this practice is infamous for bringing forth recessive genetic abnormalities. As such, breeding parents with recessive genes for blue eyes may still have mostly dark-eyed offspring. However, if you were to breed a German Shepherd Dog with a naturally blue-eyed breed like the Weimaraner, Australian Shepherd, or Siberian Husky , your chances of seeing blue-eyed offspring could be increased two-fold. You can increase your chances of getting light-eyed shepherding dogs by understanding Punnett squares , genotypes, and phenotypes. A phenotype is a physical characteristic that can be seen and categorized. Genotype directly influences the phenotype. For example, if you carry the genotype for tall height, your phenotype will reflect this, and you will be taller than the average person. Dog breeders benefit from being able to view the phenotypes of their animals and the resulting offspring. Using this information, they can begin to determine genotypes within their breeding pairs. This data allows them to choose breeding couples based upon genetic likelihoods. Of course, canine genetic testing is also available. Still, it may be worthwhile to perform canine genetic testing on your most prized German Shepherd Dog and a purebred breeding partner with a long ancestry of blue eyes. These dogs also tend to be medium-to-large in size and have robust, sleek bodies. Like other types of shepherd dogs, the German Shepherd has a relatively slim snout and pointed face. However, unlike other modern shepherd pups, the GSD almost always has dark, coffee-brown eyes. This difference is a stark contrast to the bright-eyed Australian Shepherd or the heterochromia -prone Blue Merle Collie. History The s was a very different time. In Germany, the various kingdoms and princedoms were still getting accustomed to being unified into a single nation. And a nobleman named Max von Stephanitz was opting to learn about veterinary medicine rather than military wit. In particular, Stephanitz had a deep love for German shepherd dogs. However, there was no such standardized breed when he was growing up. At the age of about 25, Stephanitz changed that. He then proceeded to breed that pup and create the German Shepherd Dog breed. Appearance German Shepherds are medium-to-large in size. They have dark brown or black coats that trail from their heads to the tips of their tails. Beneath this dark layer of fur is a creamy, brownish-beige layer. They tend to have muscular bodies built for running, jumping, and warding off larger predators. In many ways, their appearance is very similar to that of a wild wolf. However, generations of inbreeding have resulted in a standard coloration that is difficult to miss. Bi-weekly trips to the local dog park and daily walks are a must. This breed can become aggressive when not allowed to exercise and release pent-up energy. Inadequate training can also result in negative behaviors, including biting. Early training is necessary to curtail these unwanted behaviors. Still, German Shepherd Dogs are quite intelligent and tend to train very quickly. Nutrition Like many large active dogs, a German Shepherd Dog needs a rich, wholesome diet full of protein, heart-healthy oils and fats, and energy-sustaining carbohydrates. As such, a standard diet of store-bought dog kibble may not be enough to sustain them and keep them fit. Incorporating fresh foods like yogurts, lean fish, and dog-safe grains and veggies is an excellent way to keep German Shepherds in tip-top shape. Care German Shepherd Dogs have medium-length coats that are extra thick to help them survive cold and wet weather. They require weekly brushing, but sometimes could benefit from bi-weekly grooming as well. They only need bathing every four or five months. It is beloved for its loyal nature, intelligence, physical strength, and gorgeous appearance. Typically, a German Shepherd Dog has dark brown eyes. However, a GSD may have blue eyes when born or due to a rare genetic mutation. A mixed German Shepherd pup may also have blue eyes, and the likelihood of this result increases when the non-GSD parent is blue-eyed. They can occur thanks to a genetic variant in purebred dogs. This fact automatically makes them less valuable to breeders than dogs that can be shown in competitions. Because they are considered a fault, blue eyes are becoming rarer and rarer. Instead, most of them are neutered and sold as pet dogs. A breeder may continue to use a blue-eyed dog for breeding in rare cases, but only if they have exceptional features otherwise. The rarity is increased even more due to the recessive nature of this trait. Both parents have to be carriers of this gene for their puppies to have blue eyes. Brown eyes are dominant, which means that they will cover up the blue eyes trait. A dog may technically have blue eyes — but still, end up with brown due to a dominant brown-eyed gene. Instead, many of them focus on matching the breed standard — which means not using dogs with blue eyes in breeding programs. Breeders that breed show dogs will not have blue-eyed dogs available. However, you may be able to find them produced by breeders that concentrate on pet dogs. These people may even purposefully breed them because they are sometimes sought after by those looking for a pet. German Shepherds usually have brown eyes. This color is the most common and recognized by the breed standard. When many people breed German Shepherds, they aim to breed dogs with brown eyes. The brown-eyed gene is dominant. This means that the dog only needs to inherit one gene for its eyes to be brown. On the other hand, most other eye genes are recessive; the dog must receive two to develop the other eye color. The shade of brown can vary widely, though. Some dogs have dark brown eyes, while others are more of a tan. It largely depends on the amount of melanin a dog produces. More melanin equals a darker shade. There are multiple traits involved. Whether they are brown or blue is pretty easy to work out, but all the traits determining the shade can make determining their end eye color rather tricky. They may look like one of their parents — or they may not work at all. When they are first born, a puppy will not produce all the melanin that they will when they get older unless their eyes are a very light color — in which case they may never increase their melanin output. Therefore, most puppies will be born with light eyes, but they will darken as they get older. Usually, their eyes will reach their final color by the time they are about ten weeks old. This can vary widely from dog to dog, though. Some dogs may have their final color much earlier. Others may develop them much later. Some puppies may even be born with blue eyes — but these rarely stick around into adulthood. Typically, they will darken to brown within a few weeks. Instead, they happen to have blue eyes instead of the usual brown. This is a recessive trait, so your best chance of getting a puppy with blue eyes is to breed two blue-eyed adults. You may occasionally end up with a few blue-eyed puppies from breeding two brown-eyed dogs — assuming that they both have a recessive blue-eyed trait. Some German Shepherd mixed breeds also have blue eyes. Siberian Huskies are a typical example of this. Many Siberian Huskies have blue eyes. Therefore, if you breed them with a German Shepherd, your odds of getting a blue-eyed puppy are much higher. Of course, brown-eyed dogs are much more common. Finding two German Shepherds with blue-eyed traits is much more difficult than finding a Husky with blue eyes. At the moment, it is unknown. There have been few studies done on blue-eyed German Shepherds simply because there are so few of them. Most German Shepherds with blue-eyes are also mixed breeds. There are some health problems associated with blue eyes in other breeds, though. This is primarily because of the decrease in melanin that these dogs produce. For instance, German Dalmatians with blue eyes are more likely to have sensorineural deafness. However, this study also found that there was obvious inheritability even when eye color was controlled for. Therefore, other genes involved caused the deafness — not just the blue eye color itself. It may be that the blue-eyed gene itself has a large enough effect to cause deafness — or German Shepherds may not be affected at all due to their lack of this other deafness gene. Dalmatians also have an increased chance of being deaf if they have blue eyes. There have been other physical traits linked to increased deafness in Dalmatians in dogs, including the amount of spotting in their coat. This may suggest that German Shepherds will have an equal chance of being deaf if they have blue eyes. However, this is not known for sure. What About Merle German Shepherds? There are no merle German Shepherds. However, mixed-breed German Shepherds may have the merle gene — depending on the dog they are bred with. Sadly, the merle gene causes quite a few health problems. However, the science is pretty clear on this topic. Many proposed health problems may come along with a merle coat. However, only a few have scientific evidence supporting them. Dogs with the merle gene are nearly twice as likely to be deaf or blind than those without it. Multiple studies have drawn these conclusions. These health problems likely stem from the decrease in pigment the dog creates, leading to problems with their eyes and ears. Many breeders will not attempt to create merle German Shepherds for this reason. And these canines would not be purebred. It makes the dog worthless since they cannot be shown. Finding a blue-eyed German Shepherd is extremely difficult. For the most part, these dogs are rare. Most breeders produce dogs to be shown in the show ring. Instead, they are focused on producing pet-quality dogs. In this case, they may purposefully breed dogs with blue eyes, as many potential pet owners are willing to pay a high price for these German Shepherds. These breeders are few and far between. You may have to travel quite far to find one. And the waiting list may be substantial. If you want a dog now, you should probably settle on one with brown eyes. Due to their rarity, some people assume that this is a defect. However, it is caused by a recessive gene — it just happens to be a rare one. There may be some health problems associated with this gene. In other breeds, dogs with blue eyes are more likely to have certain health conditions. Plus, the current need for studies is relatively low, as these dogs are often not very common. If these dogs do have different health problems, the odds are likely not substantial. They might have a slightly higher chance of being deaf, for instance — but this chance will be meager. However, you may want to keep this in mind if you decide to adopt one. Conclusion Blue-eyed German Shepherds are very rare. The blue-eyed gene does exist in this breed. However, it is not nearly as common as the brown-eyed gene. Therefore, finding these dogs is difficult. Many breeders do not produce German Shepherds with blue eyes because they cannot be shown. They will avoid breeding these dogs where possible, though some blue-eyed dogs may pop up occasionally. These breeders usually market their dogs to pet owners. Stay on the lookout for more studies, which may be published as this dog becomes more popular. Author: Kristin Kristin was born in Tennessee and currently lives there with her husband and children. She is passionate about educating pet parents and helping them make the best possible decisions for their pets. She currently owns one dog, two cats, a lizard, and a variety of fish. Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly.