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Things to do with your English Bulldog Massachusetts is a great place to live with an English bulldog. The state has a diverse landscape, plenty of outdoor activities, and dog-friendly businesses. Hike the Trails Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. There are many hiking trails in Massachusetts that are perfect for English bulldogs. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog, and take breaks often. Visit a Campground Camping is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many campgrounds in Massachusetts that allow dogs. Be sure to bring a tent, sleeping bags, food, water, and other supplies. There are many places to fish in Massachusetts, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to get a fishing license and follow all the rules and regulations. Go Boating Boating is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many places to boat in Massachusetts, both on rivers and lakes. Be sure to bring a life jacket for your dog and follow all the safety rules. There are many places to swim in Massachusetts, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to supervise your dog at all times and follow all the safety rules. Visit a Dog Park Dog parks are a great place for English bulldogs to run and play off-leash. There are many dog parks in Massachusetts, both in urban and rural areas. Visit Dog-Friendly Businesses Massachusetts has a number of pet-friendly businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and stores. These are just a few of the many things you can do with your English bulldog in Massachusetts. With its stunning scenery, endless activities, and friendly people, Massachusetts is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in Massachusetts? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. I started breeding Olde English Bulldogges back in .After a few years, I added English Bulldogs to my program. I have always prided myself on breeding healthy family pets. In I had to take a break due to being diagnosed with breast cancer. I am super excited to be able to begin my breeding program again. Right now, we have two females, Tito and Bailey. Tito is Baileys mom. They live in our home and are a part of our everyday lives. The English Bulldog is an old and unmistakable breed. Their compact, muscular frame and copious wrinkles make them stand out from any group of dogs. They're known to have a gentle disposition, calm demeanor and love human attention. English Bulldogs are well suited for aparment life and more calm lifestyles as they don't require a large yard or a lot of exercise. They suffer in extreme heat and cold and do best in temperate climate. They are loud breathers and are known for their snoring and wheezing. Their coats don't require much attention but you will want to keep their facial folds and wrinkles clean to prevent skin infections. English Bulldogs aren't an easy breed to raise. They require artificial insemination and c-sections and require around the clock care the first few weeks. Bulldog moms can be clumsy and lay on their babies while nursing so they have to be watched closely. By providing proper food, vaccinations and care for 8 weeks, the Bulldog breeder invests a lot of time and money into each litter. If you add up the cost of stud service, progesterone tests, c-section, vaccinations, etc. This is just a quick summary of why English Bulldogs cost what they do. You can certainly find cheaper puppies but this is one of those times when you "get what you pay for". Home: About Us. Experienced Breeders.We focus on their physical characteristics, but, as well, on their temperaments and dispositions. Our Customers Experienced Breeders.People looking to bring an English or French Bulldog into their homes and lives are not just seeking to have a pet.Burton's Bulldogs has happy customers sp Show More Burton's Bulldogs recognizes that our loyal, satisfied, and discriminating customers are our most valued asset. Burton's Bulldogs has happy customers spanning the USA. We have never had a disappointed customer. Many of our customers who have purchased a dog from us contact us shortly-there-after to purchase others. About Our Kennel Location Our extraordinary kennel is located on a secluded, wooded, pristine area of North Central Massachusetts in a small town called Lunenburg. Each dog gets loads of fresh air, exercise, and personalized, individualized, and specialized loving attention from Gary Burton and his dedicated, knowledgeable, and experienced staff. In addition, they get first-rate veterinary care, often-times delivered on-site. The dogs are housed in an immaculate, temperature-controlled and video-monitored kennel area within a newly constructed barn. The area includes a dedicated area for grooming. Pups Our AKC-registered pups reflect their superior lineage and loving, patient, caring upbringing. Our pups make wonderful, well-adjusted, and confident family members, as well as Grand Champions! We raise them in a superb, caring, and nurturing environment for one purpose only.We do this in a loving, nurturing, happy, and safe environment. We focus on the high quality and superior pedigree of our dogs, knowing that is what our customers want as a future member of their family. We welcome inquiries and scheduled-visits to our facility. Not only as their primary care Veterinarian, but also as an owner of two of their beautiful dogs. The personality and charm of their bulldogs is an excellent testament of the genuine love and care they put into breeding bulldogs. They strive to provide the best companion and family pet, and certainly exceeded my expectations. All of their dogs are loved and treated like family to produce a pup anyone would be proud to own. Daniel Kelleher is an amazing person and an excellent Veterinarian. He works with an equally excellent team of other Veterinarians and technicians. We love them all! We made our visit to see the available dogs and fell in love with the breeders and facility. They are a world-class operation, that is truly amazing and totally focused on responsible breeding, cleanliness, and a warm loving home for all of their animals. If you are seeking a wonderful family-owned breeder with beautiful dogs and a great customer experience, that is exactly what you will find at Burton's Bulldogs! Dozer and Sophia instantly became beloved family members. They are devoted, obedient, fun-loving dogs with unique personalities. We are so grateful to have two happy and healthy Bulldogs in our family. It is hard to imagine life without them. Every day they bring us immeasurable happiness and joy. Herman has been no exception. Since day one, Herman has been happy, healthy and well-mannered. Throughout the entire process - from birth, to purchase and well after we took Herman home - Gary has been professional, accommodating and exceedingly helpful, answering endless questions and providing unparalleled advice. They said that one of their friends had adopted an English Bulldog from Gary and it was one of the healthiest and happiest dogs they knew. My boyfriend reached out to Gary who was very open, informative and helpful from the very first call. We were kept informed about the progress of the puppies and when we went to pick up baby Eric, the facilities in which they breed and raise the dogs is phenomenal! Harry mentioned the pups only know love and affection as that is how they raise them and that really reflects in the puppies. Eric is the sweetest, smartest and funniest little dog! He is fearless and wants to stop and say hello to everyone in the street and we somehow managed to potty train him 2 days from bringing him home. Thank you so much for everything and we cannot recommend Gary and his team enough Contact Us.

She has beauty radiating off of her from every angle. Bonnie has gorgeous crystal blue captivating eyes that are beyond velveteen rare. Baby Bonnie is truly a once in lifetime German Shepherd. We frequently save Black German Shepherds. In fact every month we meet people who are looking specially for a Black German Shepherd Dog. To help someone adopt a Black German Shepherd we evaluate their temperament and then place them in a loving foster home. Every month we meet a family that is looking for this most beautiful of dogs. Probably the main reason we are involved in Black German Shepherd Adoption is that we love the breed. Over one hundred years later the German Shepherd is one of the most popular dogs because of their intelligence, loyalty, trainability and strength. With the right owners they are magnificent family dogs. They are active dogs that need attention and a consistent owner. If you do right by your German Shepherd you will rewarded with the loyalty of one of the most amazing dogs. Our team has saved thousands of dogs over many years. Like you, we love German Shepherds. We are proud that none of our dogs go to kennels and that we can place them all in loving foster homes before they go to their forever homes with their new family. However, we also have volunteers on the Peninsula and South Bay. By considering a Black German Shepherd Adoption you are saving a life. Sadly, there are some unscrupulous breeders causing many to be unwanted and abandoned and that is where we and you come in. Thank you for thinking about Black German Shepherd Adoption. We love it when a family does adopt a Black German Shepherds, they have a very distinctive look. There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a breeder, so read on for tips on how to make the best decision for you and your dog. Research: The first step in choosing a German shepherd breeder is to do your research. Once you have a list of potential breeders, narrow it down by doing more research on each one. Find out how long they have been breeding German shepherds, what their breeding practices are, and whether they have any health concerns with their dogs. Health Screenings: A good German shepherd breeder will have their dogs health screened before breeding them. This means that the parents of your puppy will have been checked for common health problems that can affect German shepherds. This is important because it helps to ensure that your puppy will be healthy and free of these conditions. Temperament Testing: A good German shepherd breeder will also temperament test their dogs before breeding them. This means that they will evaluate the dogs to make sure that they are good candidates for breeding. They will check things like how the dog responds to strangers, whether they are aggressive, and how well they socialize with other dogs. This is important because it helps to ensure that you will get a puppy with a good temperament. Ask For Reviews: Once you have found a few potential German shepherd breeders, ask for reviews from people who have purchased puppies from them. This can be an excellent way to get first-hand information about the breeder and their dogs. Visit Breeder Permises: After you have done your research and asked for reviews, it is time to visit the breeders in person. It is also a good opportunity to ask the breeder any questions that you may have. These are just a few things to keep in mind when choosing a German shepherd breeder in the UK. By doing your research and asking the right questions, you can find the perfect breeder for your new furry friend. If you know any great German Shepherd Breeders who live in UK, please let us know in the comments below. So we can add it to our list. What is the Breeder Name? Where are they located in UK? It really helps others who are looking for German Shepherd puppies in UK. And we believe there are many but we thoroughly review and close check the breeder before adding it to our list. If your friend and relative looking for a German Shepherd Puppies in the UK, you can share this post with them. Post navigation. It lacks the physical deformities bred into western show lines of German Shepherds and has become one of Russia's most popular dog types. It was developed in the s and s to correct behavioural and conformational issues that have been bred into modern German Shepherds, and was bred for its large size, length of back, temperament and soundness of hips. White-coated German Shepherds were once banned from registration in their native Germany, but in the United States and Canada the coloration gained a following and a breed club was formed specifically for white German Shepherds, calling their variety the White Shepherd. The variety is recognised as a separate breed by the United Kennel Club. It descends from the American White Shepherds; the first stud dog of what was to become the breed was an American dog born in and imported to Switzerland. They are especially well known for their police work, being used for tracking criminals, patrolling troubled areas and detection and holding of suspects. Additionally, thousands of German Shepherds have been used by the military. These military working dogs MWD are usually trained for scout duty, and they are used to warn soldiers to the presence of enemies or of booby traps or other hazards. They were used in World War II as messenger dogs, rescue dogs and personal guard dogs. These include search and rescue, cadaver searching , narcotics detection, explosives detection , accelerant detection and mine detection dog, among others. They are suited for these lines of work because of their keen sense of smell and their ability to work regardless of distractions. When formal guide dog training began in Switzerland in the s under the leadership of Dorothy Eustis , all of the dogs trained were German Shepherd females. These results suggested that Labrador Retrievers were more suited to guide dog work while German Shepherds were more suited to police work. They are expected to patrol the boundaries to keep sheep from trespassing and damaging the crops. In Germany and other places these skills are tested in utility dog trials also known as Herdengebrauchshund HGH herding utility dog trials. He is regarded to be the dog who has captured the most drugs in Mexican police and military history. You may improve this section , discuss the issue on the talk page , or create a new section, as appropriate. By this number had grown to over .Returning soldiers spoke highly of the breed and animal actors Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart popularised the breed further. Her offspring had defects as the result of poor breeding, which caused the breed to decline in popularity during the late s. As of [update] , the German Shepherd is the second most popular breed in the US. Degenerative myelopathy , a neurological disease, occurs with enough regularity specifically in the breed to suggest that the breed is predisposed to it. A very inexpensive DNA saliva test is now available to screen for degenerative myelopathy. The test screens for the mutated gene that has been seen in dogs with degenerative myelopathy. The test is only recommended for predisposed breeds, but can be performed on DNA samples from any dog, collected through swabbing the inside of the animal's cheek with a sterile cotton swab. Prospective German Shepherd buyers can now request the test from the breeder or buy from a breeder who is known to test their dogs. Skeletal health and supplementation[ edit ] Musculoskeletal disorders are debilitating conditions that are often associated with genetic makeup, malnutrition, and stress-related events. Canine hip dysplasia CHD is an orthopaedic condition resulting from abnormal development of the hip joint and surrounding tissue causing the instability and partial dislocation of the hip joint, resulting in pain, inflammation , lameness, and potentially osteoarthritis of the joint. Both have stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. A German Shepherd named Inspector Rex is the star of an Austrian Police procedural drama program of the same name, which won many awards, where German Shepherd Rex assists the Vienna Kriminalpolizei homicide unit. It became one of the staple productions of Hungarian television history, making German Shepherds the most popular dog breed in the country ever since. Loves to chase his tail and pesky flies, he is a soft-at-heart pup who has a Big character. A change in our circumstances unfortunately means we are unable to keep him although we would most dearly love to. A loving home for him is needed. He's had a health check from the vet and comes from healthy and well-tempered parents. Absolutely loves his food so will be able to train fully. He understands pointing to indicate a direction for him. House trained, microchipped and wormed. He is good at being protective over guarding the household and is not in the slightest territorial over food or toys. He will allow you to take a bone or food off him with ease. He loves to play ball more than anything, and loves walks, long grass, new scents, chewing on moon bones and chicken. This lovely pup needs a sizeable garden and ideally, someone who is used to similar breeds and has time to train him fully. He has great potential. He would be ideal for flyball. He can jump up - he is only a puppy so can be trained - and will certainly grow up into a big, handsome dog. He has excellent parentage. He is a stunning boy and whenever we go out always attracts compliments. A good choice if you're looking for a good-natured furry friend that will be your loyal companion and protector for years to come, He is very loveable characterful boy with a great personality and a goofy soul who just wants to play. Replies to msgs after 7pm

Amazing litter born August Pls contact IG. All puppies are born in Ontario, Canada. This is a full hands on kennel with.She is a diva, very smart and sweet, loves to snuggle under the blankets, gets the zoomies and needs to be spoiled. Up to date.Litter is registered- papers, breeding rights at an additional cost. She comes with her shots and deworming x2 and flea and tick.The gas-injected glass-filled polypropylene seat back and chair legs are both rustproof and UV protected. Award-winning and ergonomically designed for comfort lumbar support and tested up to lbs. Antimicrobial available Shipping by seller Senior female English bulldog London I am rehoming my female English bulldog as I am relocating and can no longer take care of her. She is very sweet and cuddly. She loves playing with her toys and getting spoiled. She loves attention.Phenomenal quality litter, purebred French Bulldogs. They come with first and second sets of vaccines, microchip, registered, health guarantee and pet.The puppies are raised in a family home with other cats and dogs. So sweet and cuddly! Extremely smart, fearless and fun loving! Will travel within reason to deliver to the right.Please Contact. We are fully licensed bulldog breeders and insured. We have an outstanding reputation as reputable breeders and come highly recommended. We like to class ourselves as one of the best. Our main goal is to breed healthy, quality, British bulldogs with the correct temperament in line with the breed standard. This is very important to us to breed the best quality bulldogs we can and so our litters are very carefully planned. I am a member of The British Bulldog Club, Yorkshire bulldog club and The London Bulldog Society and regularly attend shows all over the country with my bulldogs from which i have had great success. My family and I love bulldogs and have had them for many years. We own them as pets and they are part of the family home brought up with our young children. We breed our bulldogs with the health and improvement of the breed as the highest priority and to seek potential show dogs in line with the breed standard and many puppies we do sell only go to the best of homes with a lifetime of support and help. We are proud to have re homed our puppies in wonderful homes all over the UK and all over the world. We now also complete HUU testing on our dogs to ensure that non of our puppies are affected. I hold a Diploma of achievement, with which I passed judging and written elements at the British Bulldog Club Bulldog breed specific judging seminar 28th April and fully ID chipped qualfied Registered with the bulldog rescue as a back to breeder member Enjoy surfing our page, do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have. Chews 1. Sweet-natured and big fans of human affection, these puppies can suffer from separation anxiety if left on their own for too long. Before your Frenchie arrives home, it's a good idea to puppy proof your house to make sure your furry friend stays safe and comfortable. From puppy gates to preparing for toilet training, our downloadable guide tells you everything you need to know about bringing a puppy home. Find out more about Frenchie puppy accessories. As many French Bulldog owners will also tell you, Frenchies are some of the quickest eaters out there - which can result in issues like bloating, painful stomach cramps, burping and gas. With all of this in mind, purchasing the correct type of dog bowl is essential! As you research the best feeding bowls for Frenchies, consider shopping around for: Slanted dog bowls: As mentioned, these dogs have a flattened face and short neck structure, which can make it difficult for them to reach their food particularly as they get older. Slanted bowls are designed to help dogs access their food with ease. Slow feeding bowls: These bowls feature a raised obstruction in the middle of the bowl, preventing fast eaters from wolfing down their dinner too quickly. Elevated dog bowls: Providing your Frenchie with a raised bowl can benefit their digestion and prevent regurgitation and vomiting. There are lots of elevated dog bowls on the market, and a popular choice are bowls that get elevated when positioned on a four-legged wooden stand. Dog Collars for Frenchies French Bulldogs are a type of brachycephalic dog breed , which means that they are more prone to trachea damage and suffocation. Because of this, you should ensure that the dog collar you choose is suitable for their neck shape, and correctly fitted to prevent breathing problems from occurring. Flat buckle dog collars tend to be the most popular option for Frenchies. These dog collars feature a simple, comfortable design, with D Rings that allow for identification tags and lead attachments. French Bulldog harnesses are the safest way to ensure control on dog walks, while decreasing the risk of neck injuries from occurring. When it comes to choosing French Bulldog leads, remember that these dogs are smaller in build and closer to the ground, which means that short dog leads tend to be the best product for walkies. Always make sure that the lead you buy can be attached to the harness you use for walks. At Barc London, we offer harnesses for French Bulldogs with matching leads that are 1 - 1. Just like us humans, these dogs are affectionate creatures which enjoy cuddling in cosy spaces. The ideal shape of dog bed for French Bulldogs tends to be an enclosed style with higher walls. These beds provide an area for dogs to retreat and curl up in to get a good night's sleep. Older French Bulldogs in particular can suffer from problems with their joints and conditions like arthritis. Memory foam cushions can help to provide relief at night and promote healthy joints for better mobility. French Bulldogs enjoy the warmth and comfort blankets can provide. For these dogs, burrowing is a natural instinct, so a warm blanket is a French Bulldog accessory that will help them feel protected and comfortable in their nested environment. For the team at Barc, this was by far one of the most enjoyable aspects of crafting the Play collection, and it was important that each toy we created communicated the importance of playtime for dogs and their human owners. Remember that this breed of dog thrives on companionship. Playing with your French Bulldog is a great way to build a bond, and you can do so with games of fetch and rope toys for tug of war! Tried and tested by our founding Frenchie, our collection of designer dog toys offer the best products to enhance play. French Bulldog Clothes French Bulldogs have a unique body structure, with a small and compact build. Their muscular bodies and shorter legs can make it difficult to find suitable apparel - which is why you should always focus on comfort and fit when shopping for French Bulldog clothes. Dog coats: Frenchies are short-haired and more prone to feeling the cold compared to other breeds. This is true for most brachycephalic dogs, as their bodies tend to lose heat faster than able to be replaced. Knowing that these dogs struggle to regulate their body temperature, our Wear range offers dog coats that come in a padded gilet style. The lightweight material is breathable enough for these dogs to exercise comfortably, and warm enough to provide protection from the cold. French Bulldog Gifts Frenchies enjoy feeling the love, and showering them with dog gifts is a great way to display care and attention! Gifts for French Bulldog Lovers Anyone who has owned a French Bulldog before will be able to relate to the special bond these dogs form with their human partners. These affectionate pups were in fact bred to be companion dogs , and their friendly and good-natured disposition is unparalleled. Described as a 'must read for any dog parent', this book shares Archie's life, and gives deeper insights into the heart behind the Barc London brand. A Truly Beautiful Read What a beautiful and heartfelt story of a man and his dog, which in turn was also the inspiration to create Barc London. Wonderfully presented on a smooth papered book with stunning photos to accompany the story. These beautiful products are no longer just images on the website, but now part of a story with so much more meaning. The shape gives it a good irregular bounce too so he loves to chase it. He holds it in his paws and chews and chews the top which still shows no sign of teeth marks. Super stylish toy looks great and is fantastic quality. Only problem is my pup loves it too much and I'm almost deaf from the squeaking!

Toy poodles double down on the froofroo rep with their tiny size and by sometimes sporting those fancy haircuts. But trust us, poodles are more than happy to get down and dirty. In fact, poodles started life as hunting dogs for the rich and famous in Europe. What made them so popular, however, is their incredible intelligence. Generally regarded as one of the smartest dog breeds , poodles are highly trainable, extremely eager to please people, and love being the center of attention through tricks and activities. None of that has changed over the years: The poodle consistently ranks as one of the 10 most popular breeds in the world. Appearance Toy, miniature , and standard poodles are all the same breed of dog, so they'll look more or less the same—except for their size. Toy poodles are the smallest of the three, standing no more than 10 inches tall and generally weighing right around 5 pounds. All three classifications of poodle have squarish bodies, generally about as long as they are tall. Poodles have a proud bearing, with heads kept high and their large, dark-colored eyes looking alert. Poodle coats come in a stunning array of colors from black, through the browns and yellow colors all the way to white. Bi-colored coats are also seen, though not hugely common. Poodles don't shed much , making them great for owners with allergies. While there aren't technically any hypoallergenic dogs , most people will find toy poodles close enough to not really quibble over it. Additionally, groomers can style a poodle's fur many different ways, and the breed has become famous for its outlandish show cuts. They tend to consider themselves a vital part of the family, have strong personalities, and learn things in a flash. They will get legitimately disgruntled if they think they're being left out of family activities. Of course, this temperament is kind of a double-edged sword. Toy poodles are devoted family pets who love to be the center of attention, learn tricks, and take walks. They're excellent in agility and obedience training and will play with children for hours. Because of their extreme intelligence, poodles are even quick to learn how to engage in more complex games such as hide and seek. On the flip side, poodles can develop common stress behaviors associated with separation anxiety. If you leave them alone for too long or don't give them the attention they deserve, these pups can be passive aggressive and do things they know you don't like—while you're there to watch. The toy poodle's teensy-tiny size makes it tempting to carry him everywhere, and he's so cute that it's no surprise owners are tempted to spoil him rotten. But, again, poodles are brilliant. A toy poodle who is carried everywhere will start to expect to be carried everywhere. As a result, every poodle owner should take full advantage of the breed's brilliance and eagerness to please, and obedience train their pet as quickly as possible. Living Needs Here is where the toy poodle's aptitude as an ideal family pet really shines. While poodles can be active dogs and will require some kind of daily exercise, toy poodles can get all their needs taken care of right there on the living room floor. Nichols says these little dogs will be happy with whatever type and amount of exercise their owner provides. Their tiny size makes them marvelous apartment-dwellers , and their innate desire to be lapdogs makes them great for seniors and people with mobility issues. Poodles of all sizes make great therapy dogs , and toy poodles in particular will love sitting near you for hours at a time. Toy poodles do great in households with other dogs, and the breed's lower prey drive , high intelligence, and friendly attitude make them ideal for houses with cats as well. Poodles love children and are eager to play, but most vets and breeders will steer households with children under the age of 10 toward the miniature or standard varieties, simply because the toy poodles are so small. They can be easily hurt by a falling child or by being handled too roughly. Always supervise children when they play with any dog and teach them how to properly interact with pets. Care No breed is perfect, and for poodles the biggest setback is going to be their grooming needs. That coat that is so shed-free and allergy-friendly? It's going to need brushing. A lot of brushing —ideally, every day. Because his hair curls in on itself, it's extremely prone to matting and, if left unchecked, can cause skin infections and have to be shaved off entirely. Aside from the brushing, poodles will need a bath and haircut every four to six weeks. While show dogs have a variety of complicated cuts to choose from, most non-show owners opt for a more standard sporting cut because of its ease to maintain. Like all dogs, you'll need to trim his nails regularly. Special attention should be paid to the ears , as their hair will grow up inside the ear canal, trapping wax and dirt and leading to infections. Because toy varieties have the same number of teeth as other poodle varieties but their mouths are smaller, it's easy for food to get trapped and decay to occur rapidly. Health Though the three varieties of poodles are the same breed, they do not suffer from the same conditions. While the standard poodle will be more prone to bloat , toy poodles can be slightly more susceptible to blood clotting disorders including Von Willebrand's disease and hemophilia , Beck says. Finally, smaller dogs can have a higher propensity for dental problems. In addition to being at greater risk for tooth decay , they don't lose their puppy teeth as easily as bigger dogs, Beck says. Reputable toy poodle breeders will conduct all health tests recommended by the Canine Health Information Center. History The poodle is the national dog of France, which is why you'll hear many people refer to the standard poodle as the "French poodle. Today in France, the poodle is known as the caniche, which translates to "duck dog. Toy poodles began to see favor by the late 18th century, appearing in artwork and in the courts of French aristocracy. The American Kennel Club recognized the poodle as a registered breed in .Jinkee , a 5-year-old red toy poodle, has more than 70, followers on Instagram. Was this page helpful? They have a distinctive thick, curly coat that comes in many colors and patterns, with only solid colors recognized by breed registries. Poodles are active and intelligent, and are particularly able to learn from humans. Poodles tend to live 10—18 years, with smaller varieties tending to live longer than larger ones. Similar dogs date back to at least the 17th century. Larger Poodles were originally used by wildfowl hunters to retrieve game from water, while smaller varieties were once commonly used as circus performers. Since the midth century, Poodles have enjoyed enormous popularity as pets and show dogs — Poodles were the AKC's most registered breed from to , and are now the FCI's third most registered breed. Poodles are also common at dog shows, where they often sport the popularly recognized Continental clip, with face and rear clipped close, and tufts of hair on the hocks and tail tip. History A 17th-century engraving of a Poodle Most cynologists believe the Poodle originated in Germany in the Middle Ages , from a dog similar to today's Standard Poodle. Numerous works by various German artists from as early as the 17th century depict dogs of recognisably Poodle type. As new breeding practices were adopted, the variety became set as a toy-sized replica of the original. Not universally recognised by the world's kennel clubs , the Medium Poodle is recognised by the FCI and most Continental European kennel clubs. A pet owner can anticipate grooming a Poodle every four to eight weeks. Their individual hair follicles have an active growth period that is longer than that of many other breeds; combined with the tightly curled coat, which slows the loss of dander and dead hair by trapping it in the curls, an individual Poodle may release less dander and hair into the environment. However, researchers have generally not found a difference in allergens across breeds. The FCI additionally recognizes the Scandinavian clip. Poodle hair can also be "corded" with rope-like mats similar to those of a Komondor or human dreadlocks. Though once as common as the curly Poodle, corded Poodles are now rare. Corded coats are difficult to keep clean and take a long time to dry after washing. They were common historically, but became less popular in the early s, and are excluded from many registries. Phantom Poodles may also have a full face of the secondary color.

They are real giants in the sense that they are the biggest variety of the German Shepherd that exists. Up until today, the breed is still considered under development. The crossbreeding was done with the aim of producing a dog breed with the appearance and characteristics of a German Shepherd but larger in size and has fewer health issues. Nonetheless, King Shepherds are loving, intelligent, and versatile working dogs just like the classic German Shepherds. In fact, Shiloh Shepherds are the foundation of King Shepherds! This being said, Tina Barber, a German Shepherd trainer, had seen the need to breed a better version of the German Shepherd that can perfectly fit into a family as a working dog. This is how the birth of the gentle Shiloh Shepherd started. Shiloh Shepherds are a mix of German Shepherd, Alaskan Malamute, and few other dog breeds that are larger in size and have better genetics when it comes to health. As hip dysplasia is a common crippling disease for German Shepherds, breeds with better hip conditions were crossbred to produce the Shiloh Shepherd. It is said that Shilohs perfectly resemble the intelligence and loyalty of German Shepherds but are less aggressive and domineering. They are even called gentle giants because of their stable temperament. The classic German Shepherd alone is already considered as a large dog breed that could reach a height of 26 inches and a weight of 90 pounds! Now, you could just imagine how big a Giant German Shepherd can grow? This Giant German Shepherd could reach an astounding height of 29 inches for males and 27 inches for females. Their weight ranges between to pounds for fully grown male King Shepherds and 90 to pounds for fully grown female King Shepherds. If you put a German Shepherd beside a King Shepherd, you will notice the big difference in their height. Nonetheless, when compared to their predecessor, the classic German Shepherd breed, this giant hybrid is still significantly bigger in size and heavier in weight. The only significant differences of Giant German Shepherds to their ancestor other than their size could be seen with their coat and personality or behavior. King Shepherds Photo from marcothekingshep IG King Shepherds have retained the compact, solid, and muscular body composition of their ancestor German Shepherd. They are literally the giant version. They have a square head, almond-shaped eyes which could either be brown or golden brown in color and erect pointy ears. When it comes to their body ratio, they look a bit longer than tall. They also have a broader chest compared to the classic German Shepherd breed. Their tail is long and bushy that curls upwards. King Shepherds have thick weather-resistant fluffy double coats which could either be long, straight, course, or wavy. The main coat colors are fawn, red, brown, sable, and black. So if you are looking forward to owning King Shepherds, make sure to ready your cleaning tools because they shed regularly. When it comes to their personality, King Shepherds make the perfect family companions and guardians. They are intelligent, easy-going, and protective yet gentle dogs. These traits are a result of crossbreeding the intelligent and protective German Shepherd with the gentle giant Shiloh Shepherd. King Shepherds can be wary of strangers but not aggressive. They have also inherited the energetic and alert traits of their ancestors, German Shepherds. Because of this, they need regular exercises and activities to keep them busy and happy. Watch this video to see a five-year old King Shepherd while undergoing training: 5 year old King Shepherd! This dog breed has a proud carriage and a smooth and effortless gait. Their chest is deep and broad with the abdomen firmly held and slightly tucked. The skull shape of the Shiloh should have a balanced width and length with a slightly domed frontal appearance. The facial region should be moderately broad between the ears but not too broad. Shiloh also has a blunt black nose and almond-shaped brown eyes. Their ears are also erect just like German Shepherds. Their smooth and plush double coat can come in different varieties of color, patterns, and length. When it comes to colors and patterns, Shiloh Shepherd coats can have shades of black with tan, golden tan, reddish tan, silver, and cream. Solid white and black are also acceptable as long as the lips, eye rims, and nose are solid black. However, white markings are discouraged as well as washed out colors. When it comes to their temperament and behavior, the Shiloh Shepherd is called as the gentle and better version of German Shepherds. Their calm and intelligent traits make them perfect as family companions. They are self-assured, composed, friendly and calm yet observant and perceptive for menacing situations. As mentioned earlier in the article, both King Shepherd and Shiloh Shepherd are new hybrids of dogs that are still under development. The Shiloh was born in — decades earlier than the birth of its son, the King Shepherd, .A few of the reasons why breeders produce large German Shepherd breeds include better health, better appearance, better behavior, and stronger body. In the case of Shiloh Shepherd, it was originally bred to produce a German Shepherd that is gentler and bigger. Trainers of German Shepherds back then believed that they are too much for the average family to handle. So, they decided and aimed to produce a dog breed that has the instinctive protective trait but is more calm and gentle — the result, Shiloh Shepherd! With the latest development of the Shiloh Shepherd breed, it is said that the Shiloh excels in all types of work, from animal assisted therapy to obedience to guardian assignments, while getting along very well with people. The King Shepherd, on the other hand, was also aimed to be a larger guard dog that can be a family companion. Since it has the foundation of the Shiloh Shepherd and the German Shepherd, King Shepherd inherited both the gentle and protective traits of its ancestor. More than the temperament, the breeding of King Shepherd also aimed to refine the health of the breed by crossbreeding it with other breeds that have better health history — especially hip dysplasia. If you want to produce a larger German Shepherd while maintaining the pure lineage, then you must do pure breeding. However, if you are interested in acquiring not only a larger size but also an exclusive trait from other breeds, then you can apply crossbreeding. Pure Breeding In this breeding process, two purebred German Shepherds with sizes that are larger on the larger end of the standard size will be bred to produce larger offspring. Once the puppies are fully grown, the ones with exceptional size will be selected again to be bred with other German Shepherd dogs that are also exceptional in terms of size. The process will continue from generation to generation until the trait is cultivated deep within the genes. However, breeding dogs with related lineage should be discouraged as it promotes health issues stemming from genetic problems. Cross Breeding Cross breeding process is done by breeding German Shepherds with other large breed dogs. This is the process done in breeding Shiloh Shepherds and King Shepherds. In the case of the Shiloh Shepherd, it was a mixed breed of German Shepherd and large breed dogs such as the Alaskan Malamute. Aside from the size, other factors such as temperament, appearance, and breed health conditions should also be considered in cross breeding as they will greatly affect the breed outcome. The lifespan of Giant German Shepherds ranges from 10 to 13 years which is quite the same as the normal German Shepherd. Crossbred dogs are expected to be healthier than purebred ones. However, although they are quite immune to other health problems due to the benefit of cross breeding, there are still health conditions that are common for Giant German Shepherd breeds. Nonetheless, both King Shepherd and Shilo Shepherd are just like other dog breeds — vulnerable if not well taken care of. Here are the common health issues among Giant German Shepherds: Joint Dysplasia: This is an abnormal formation of joints in either hip or elbow that can eventually cause lameness, instability, weakness, and pain. With this disease, proper blood clotting is impossible due to the deficiency of a protein that the platelets need. Perianal Fistula: This skin disease also known as anal furunculosis is a serious medical condition that most commonly affects German Shepherd dogs — both purebred and mixed breed dogs. It is a skin disease that affects the area immediately surrounding the anus. Eye Issues: Giant German Shepherds are also susceptible to different eye problems which include irritation, inflammation, watery eye, and pus discharge among others. King Shepherds are quite more expensive than Shiloh Shepherds. With all these being said, if you plan to own a Giant German Shepherd, then ready your pockets and wallet. Here are some of the reputable breeders and rescue centers where you can get your Giant German Shepherd. You can look for available puppies on their website as well as reputable breeders of King Shepherds. This breeder facility started in and is owned by the secretary of the King Shepherd Club International. Reputable Shilo breeders are listed on their website as well as puppies on sale. Puppies and stud services are offered by this breeder. If you want to give a homeless Giant German Shepherd a new home, then you can adopt from these rescues instead: All Shepherd Rescue — All Shepherd Rescue is dedicated to finding a home for Shepherds of all breeds. You can check out their website to look for dogs and puppies available for adoption. Different breeds of shepherds are situated in this facility. You can check out the available dogs for adoption. You can visit their website to see their rescued dogs. Who knows? You might find the Giant German Shepherd that perfectly fits you. The biggest among the German Shepherds with regards to size and weight are the King Shepherds. The King Shepherds have an average weight of pounds 55 kg and a height ranging from 25 to 29 inches cm. Whether it is the right dog for you or not depends on your preference, lifestyle, and dedication to taking care of a pet. First ask yourself what you are looking for in a dog. Are you looking for a companion? A guardian? A protector? Then if you have ticked all the boxes on the questions above, a Giant German Shepherd is the right dog for you. Their large body is an asset for being guard dogs. Plus, their gentle and calm personality befit them as companion dogs. Your lifestyle also has something to say whether the Giant German Shepherd is the right dog for you. Giant German Shepherds are active dogs, so you will have to walk them in the park or play with them regularly. This means you also need to be active! Lastly, you must be dedicated. Giant German Shepherds are large dogs that need more attention, space, food, necessity, and care. If you think you are not ready to provide all of the things I mentioned in exchange for their loyalty and love, then the Giant German Shepherd is not the right dog for you. In the end, no matter the size of the dog, their love will always be humongously the same. 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. Rescued a 3 moths pup after losing a big guy. My last one was an Anatolian lbs. Raised 55 Alpacas in the mts and never lost an animal to predators. So anyhow, this guy was getting huge. So after some research, I found and talked to a breeder of giants. Sweetest guy in the world. Super dude. Anyhow, great breed. Sweet with people, but tough with all the critters in the forest. It gives an estimate of the risk for painful osteoarthritis OA of canine hip dysplasia CHD later in life. With this information, preventive and palliative strategies can be recommended by the PennHIP-trained veterinarian. It has been extremely helpful to me as a breeder to OFA-certify my dogs. If the breeders have been breeding a long time you should see lots of names.You are supporting puppy mills if you buy a dog with these registries as they are mainly for puppy mill breeders, You know what you get with AKC because of record inspections and DNA. All Buyers should beware! Both are breeding females that are not German Shepherds they looked like husky crosses but are registering them as German Shepherds and the registry does not care. I have personally seen it and so have many others. Are you looking for size? Here are some pointers! Most breeders of large german shepherds exaggerate by 50 lbs and several inches or more! Vet certified weight means nothing if you can't call the vet! Size means little if temper , health and longevity are not there! Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. The Earliest Records of Giant German Shepherds in History The history of Giant German Shepherds can be traced back to the late 19th century, during a time of significant change and innovation in Germany. Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer with a passion for dogs, played a pivotal role in the development of this impressive breed. Von Stephanitz recognized the need for a versatile working dog that could excel in various roles, including herding, guarding, and assisting in police and military work. He believed that the standard German Shepherd had the potential to meet these requirements, but he wanted to create a larger, more powerful version of the breed. To achieve his goal, von Stephanitz began selectively breeding larger-sized German Shepherds with desirable traits such as intelligence, strength, and a strong work ethic. He carefully chose breeding pairs that displayed these attributes, and over several generations, he successfully developed the Giant German Shepherd. As their role in human society evolved over time, these impressive dogs demonstrated their value in a variety of settings. Initially bred for herding and guarding livestock, Giant German Shepherds proved to be highly effective in these roles due to their natural instincts, agility, and imposing presence. Word of their abilities spread quickly, catching the attention of those in need of working dogs. As the 20th century progressed, the world began to recognize the potential of Giant German Shepherds in other important roles. Their intelligence, trainability, and loyalty made them ideal candidates for police and military work, where they excelled in tasks such as tracking, apprehending suspects, and detecting explosives and narcotics. In addition to their success in law enforcement and military operations, Giant German Shepherds also proved to be valuable assets in search and rescue missions. Their keen sense of smell, stamina, and determination allowed them to locate missing persons and save lives in challenging environments. Furthermore, their gentle and affectionate nature made them well-suited for service dog roles, providing assistance and companionship to individuals with disabilities. Today, Giant German Shepherds are popular family pets, offering both protection and companionship to their owners. Their versatility, combined with their striking appearance, has contributed to their enduring popularity among dog enthusiasts worldwide. To celebrate and promote the breed, many breed-specific clubs and organizations have been established, offering resources, support, and opportunities for Giant German Shepherd enthusiasts to connect. These organizations often host events such as dog shows, competitions, and educational seminars, providing a platform for the breed to gain further recognition and appreciation. While the Giant German Shepherd may not yet have formal breed status, its impressive size, capabilities, and versatility ensure that it remains a beloved and valued member of the canine world. They are Gentle Despite their size, Giant German Shepherds are gentle giants, known for being friendly and good with children. They Make Great Guard Dogs They have a strong protective instinct, making them excellent guard dogs for families and properties. They Need a Lot of Exercise Giant German Shepherds require more space and exercise than their standard-sized counterparts due to their larger size. They Are Great Working Dogs Their immense size and strength make them well-suited for various working roles, including police and military work, search and rescue missions, and service dog roles. They Have Own Fanclub Although not a separate breed, Giant German Shepherds have a dedicated following and are celebrated by breed-specific clubs and organizations. Giant German Shepherds make excellent pets for active families, as they are loyal, loving, and intelligent. They are easy to train and get along well with other pets. However, potential owners should be prepared for the significant space and exercise requirements of these large dogs. Giant German Shepherds need ample room to move around and plenty of daily physical activity to keep them happy and healthy. While they are intelligent and trainable, their size and strength may pose challenges for inexperienced owners. First-time dog owners should invest in professional training and seek guidance from experienced German Shepherd owners or breeders. At least 1—2 hours of physical activity, including walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation, is recommended to maintain their health and prevent boredom. With their impressive size, strength, and intelligence, they have found a place in various working roles and as loving family pets. While not formally recognized as a separate breed, their unique characteristics have earned them a dedicated following among dog enthusiasts worldwide. Featured Image Credit: SerPhoto, Shutterstock Written by Rachael Gerkensmeyer Author Rachael has been a freelance writer since , in which time she has had an opportunity to research and write about many different topics while working to master the art of fusing high-quality content with effective content marketing strategies. She is an artist at heart and loves to read, paint, and make jewelry in her spare time. As a vegan, Rachael is obsessed with helping animals in need both in her community and anywhere in the world where she feels she can make a difference. Animals also happen to be her favorite topic to write about! She lives off the grid in Hawaii with her husband, her garden, and her rescue animals including 5 dogs, a cat, a goat, and dozens of chickens.Read more Advertisement.

Visit the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory website Labrador retrievers have coats of three basic colors: yellow, black, and chocolate. These colors are determined genetically, just like almost all of the traits that offspring get from their parents. The modes of inheritance of these coat colors are autosomal not related to the sex of the dog. The information for black or chocolate comes from two versions of the same gene different versions of a gene are known as alleles. This gene is different from the one that causes yellow hair. There are four known alleles at this gene in the Labrador Retriever: one is the allele for black designated as B and three different alleles that result in chocolate collectively designated as b. In determining if your puppies will be black or chocolate, the black coat color B is dominant to the chocolate b. Therefore, a puppy will only be chocolate if each parent contributes a chocolate allele bb. If one or both parents Bb or BB contribute the black dominant allele, the puppy will be black BB or Bb , although a Bb puppy would carry chocolate and could therefore produce chocolate puppies. Black Labrador Retriever. Photo by Katy Robertson. Chocolate colored Labrador Retriever. There are several known alleles of this gene in dogs, but for Labradors the most common are E produce black and brown pigment and e only produce yellow pigment. An e allele at the MC1R gene prevents expression of the black or chocolate color in the hair follicle and the puppy's hair ends up yellow. Interestingly, the black or chocolate pigment is still expressed in the skin, just not in the hair. In order to be yellow, a Labrador must have two recessive alleles of the MC1R gene ee. This means both parents contributed a yellow allele e. However, if only one Ee or no EE yellow-causing alleles are contributed, this puppy will be either black or chocolate depending on which alleles are present at the TYRP1 gene see above. Yellow Labrador Retriever. Two yellow labs can only have yellow puppies ee , since they both only have the yellow allele e to contribute to their offspring. If they are bred to each other, there is a chance that some puppies will get a copy of e from each parent and have yellow hair Bbee, BBee, or bbee. If you are interested in breeding your Labrador and would like to know the genetic make up of your dog to predict the color of your puppies, genetic tests are available. The tests are easy, non-invasive, and simply require that you take a swab of the inside of your dog's cheek and send it to the laboratory. Primary Category. Of course we had to go for a visit! I knew from past experience being educated by a sister in love with dogs of all breeds, that Labradors came in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. I did find it a bit curious to see that some of the puppies nestled in with the mother were of a different color than she was. Most were black labs like mom, but there were some that were yellow as well. So what would a logical explanation be for some puppies that look nothing like mom? Well dad must have been a yellow lab, right? Come to find out, I was quite wrong. I later learned that the daddy dog was also a black lab! This had me a bit stumped and quite curious to uncover more about what lies hidden in the genes of Labrador dogs. Explanation of the science involved: It turns out that the genes behind the coat color of Labrador retrievers provide quite a few opportunities to explore different levels of concepts important to the topic of genetics. At the most basic level, surprising litters of Labrador puppies can be used to help students understand the difference between dominant and recessive genes. Students may be able to generalize that yellow and also chocolate coat colors have a recessive nature after examining multiple examples of litters. But how can there be two colors that would be recessive?! The explanation becomes quite interesting when you look at the actual genotypes of the labs in question. The next level would be to use Labrador coat color to help students understand the possibilities of offspring in a monohybrid cross. In the case of Labradors, the black and chocolate colors are determined by dominant and recessive alleles at one gene locus. The black coat color B is dominant to chocolate b. Here is just one example of a monohybrid cross showing the relationship between black and chocolate lab coat colors. Now you might still be wondering where the yellow coat color comes into play. The explanation behind the third coat color allows for an even deeper look into the complex nature of genetics. The gene that determines if a Labrador puppy will be yellow or not is actually at a different location gene locus than the gene that influences the black and chocolate coat colors. This second gene locus can carry a dominant allele Y or a recessive allele y. This genotype inactivates the black or brown genes, and the resulting puppy has a yellow coat. Considering the genotypes of black, chocolate, and yellow labs allows for the study of the resulting offspring in dihybrid crosses. Here is an example below of a dihybrid cross that shows how two black Labradors can actually produce offspring of all three coat colors. By showing a picture of a puppy litter with only one parent dog present, students could be asked to develop hypotheses for why the puppies look the way they do. Potential Questions after the first picture - What do you observe about the dogs in the picture? After sharing their ideas, students can then be given the additional information that both parents are black labs. Potential Questions after new parent information - Has this new information changed your initial thinking? Why or why not? What was the explanation in this situation? Along with these last questions, student groups could be asked to create explanatory models of how the different looking puppies came about. By the end of the unit, these are some gotta-haves that students should be able to include in the final examples of their models: 1. What can be observed about the dogs? Describe their relationships. Students should be able to identify generations of organisms and phenotypes. What information is hidden within the dogs that affects their appearance? What interactions occur with the parent information in order to produce the puppies that are observed? Students should be able to describe the interactions between dominant and recessive alleles and predict the outcomes of these interactions. If students need more practice with monohybrid crosses, they could work on making predictions about the offspring of only chocolate and black Labrador parents with varying genotypes. Students could also work up to the challenge of being able to figure out an unknown parent genotype by trying to puzzle out the method that we know as a test cross. If students have mastered the use of basic Punnett Squares, they could be given the additional challenge of making predictions of dihybrid crosses between black, chocolate, or yellow lab parents with varying genotypes. In this case, there are enough options of genotypes that students could even make up their own crosses and see what offspring would be predicted. Later in the unit, students could also be given a real-life challenge as if they were in the role of a dog breeder. Once you have chosen which coat color you prefer, please explain how over the course of at least 3 generations you could maximize the number of puppies born with your favorite coat color.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Have you always wanted a Labrador retriever, but are you worried about the common health problems of the breed? Someone might have recommended that you go for a Pit Bull-Lab mix. Labrador retrievers and American pit bull terriers began to be deliberately interbred in the s as a way of minimizing the health problems that are common to both pure breeds. The result is usually a gorgeous, medium-sized pup with the strength and loyalty of a pit bull and the intelligence and affection of a Labrador. But wait, you might be wondering if these dogs are highly aggressive, since pit bulls do have a reputation for being a pretty aggressive dog. While exactly what you get with a mix-breed pup is always unpredictable, the aggressive reputation of the pit bull is undeserved. They are, in fact, intelligent and affectionate canines. A word of warning, while pit bull-Lab mixes are highly affectionate and highly trainable, they are not generally recommended for first-time dog owners since there is quite a bit of work involved in looking after these special dogs. But whatever you call them, they are a mix between a Labrador retriever and an American pit bull terrier. Labrador retrievers are medium-large gun dogs that were initially bred to retrieve game. But over the years, they have also become incredibly popular family dogs. They are also highly intelligent, trainable, and friendly, so they are also often used as disability assistance dogs, for example working as guide dogs for the blind. American pit bull terriers are solidly built medium-sized dogs. In the early 19th century, they were often used in blood sports such as bull and bear-baiting, and after these sports were outlawed in , they were also often used in dogfighting. This is why the breed has a reputation for being aggressive, but they are not naturally aggressive when properly cared for. They are, in fact, strong, confident, and lively, and make excellent family pets as they love children and are protective of them. Pit Bull-Labrador Mix Characteristics Unlike with pure-bred dogs, which tend to have a fairly predictable appearance and temperament, you can never be sure exactly how the characteristics of parents will combine in a mix-breed dog. But it is possible to generalize about the most likely characteristics of a pit bull-Lab mix based on the characteristics that appear most often, and characteristics that breeders will often try and control to produce the best possible pups. Labrador-Pit Bull Mix Appearance Most pups that are a mix between a Labrador retriever and a pit bull can be characterized as medium in size. They usually range from between 17 to 25 inches tall and can weigh anywhere from 45 to 90 pounds. Male Lab-pit bull mixes tend to be significantly larger than their female counterparts. They will almost certainly have a strong and muscular physique. Labradors are fairly strong to start with, and this is only enhanced by the extreme muscular nature of the American pit bull terrier. Their facial features generally fall between those of a Lab and a pit bull, and they will have a broader forehead than a Labrador retriever, but it will be narrower than that of a pit bull. They usually have a relatively long muzzle and long pointed ears. Your pitador might also come out with the classic Labrador retriever double coat that sheds a lot. Breeders will often try and control for this characteristic, but there are no guarantees. There is no way of knowing what kind of coat they will have when you adopt a puppy. Coat colors vary from classic Labrador colors including black, chocolate, and golden yellow, but you can also expect to see white, spotted, brindle, and cream. Lab-Pit Bull Mix Temperament When you adopt a Labrabull, you can expect a dog that is affectionate, intelligent, and energetic, as these are characteristics of both Labrador retrievers and American pit bull terriers. Lab-pit bull mixes are very affectionate and bond quickly with new families. They are incredibly friendly with children and will be both careful and protective of them. While you can trust a pit bull-Lab mix with children, small children should never be left alone with any dog unsupervised. While they do get on with other animals, this breed does have a need to be dominant. They may engage in behaviors you consider aggressive or undesirable to assert their dominance over other dogs or household animals. They crave to be included in everything the family does and to be the center of attention. These dogs are very intelligent and also eager to please, which makes them highly trainable. They are just as capable of being trained as working dogs as their Labrador retriever parent. They are motivated by praise and reward, and training should always utilize positive reinforcement. When your dog is frustrated and confused by what you want from them, that is when they can become aggressive. But pit bull-Lab dogs are not naturally aggressive; they actually have a calm and fun-loving temperament. But they are also high energy and need a lot of exercise. They are highly alert and will bark a little to let you know if guests arrive at the door or strangers are lurking near the house. Lab-Pit Bull Mix Health These crossbreed dogs generally live for years and within that time are likely to have fewer health problems than either purebred Labrador retrievers or American pit bull terriers. Nevertheless, they can be inclined to develop some of the joint conditions that are common in Labrador retrievers, such as hip dysplasia. They can benefit from glucosamine supplements to help keep their joints supple and healthy. You can find our recommendations for the best glucosamine supplements here. These dogs are also more inclined to developing epilepsy and hyperthyroidism than some other dog breeds. You should monitor your dog for seizures to identify the onset of epilepsy. You can read more about seizures in dogs here. Finally, dogs that are a mix of Labrador retrievers and pit bulls can be inclined to develop skin conditions and allergies. For this reason, it is important to choose a good pH-balanced shampoo for your dog, and try to keep their food and environment free of toxins that can trigger or exacerbate allergies. These might help you to decide whether they are the right breed of dog for you. Exercise Lab-pit bull retrievers are energetic dogs that need lots of space to play. They need a yard to give them space to run and play throughout the day. They need a lot of exercise each day. They need at least 30 minutes of vigorous exercise, such as running or playing catch, each day. On top of this, they will need hours of moderate exercise such as walking and playing. This exercise is best when split into at least two exercise sessions each day. It is advisable to keep your pit bull-Lab mix on the leash when in public parks as they have a high prey drive. Attention These dogs thrive on love and attention, and since they are so intelligent, they also need a lot of mental stimulation. This means that it is not appropriate to leave them alone for long periods of time. If you leave one of these dogs alone for ten hours a day while everyone is at work, you will come home to a lot of destruction and a frustrated dog that may become aggressive in their need for your affection. Grooming Most Lab-pit bull mixes have the short-haired, low-shedding coat of a pit bull, which only needs brushing once a week. But if they turn out to have the high-shedding coat of a retriever, you may find that you need to brush them every day to keep on top of their shedding. You will also want a powerful vacuum cleaner that is designed to pick up dog hair. You also need to pay a lot of attention to dental care, as Lab-pit bull mixes are prone to tartar build-up and gum disease. Diet Since these dogs are highly muscular and full of energy, they thrive on a diet that is high in animal-based proteins and high in healthy fats. You do need to be careful how much food you give them, as they will usually eat even when they feel full, and they are prone to put on weight when they overeat. So, feed them a diet that is low in carbohydrates and put food out at regular times rather than leaving food in their bowl for them to graze throughout the day. Since these dogs are prone to allergies, it is important to invest in high-quality food that does not contain any artificial additives that can be toxic for dogs. It is also a good idea to vary their diet, and ensure they are not eating the same type of meat every day. Dogs are most likely to develop allergies to the foods they eat the most. So, if you feed your dog the same chicken-based dog food every day, it is likely that over time they might develop an allergy to chicken. Varying the protein that makes up their diet can help prevent this. Where To Adopt There are many reputable breeders out there breeding top-quality pit bull-Labrador retriever mixes. Generally speaking, you will find that the Labrador is the mother, as they are a slightly larger breed, and it is safer for the dog when the mother is a bit larger than the father. So, if possible, look to adopt rather than buy. A great place to start looking for adoptable dogs is at Petfinder. We found our Australian Shepherd Labrador Retriever mix through petfinder. FAQs Is a pit bull-Lab mix an aggressive dog? No, pit bull-Lab mix dogs are not aggressive. They can have a reputation for aggression because pit bulls have traditionally been used in blood sports, but the breed is not naturally aggressive. They can be dominant among other animals and may engage in classic alphamale behavior to assert their position in the animal hierarchy. When do Lab-pit bull mixes stop growing? Lab-pit bull mix dogs will usually keep growing until they are about three years old, which is around the same time as they start to lose their puppy energy. You can expect them to grow between 17 and 25 inches tall and to weigh between 45 and 90 pounds. Are pit bull-Lab mixes a good dog breed for families with kids? Yes, Lab-pit bull mixes are excellent kids. They are gentle and playful and will also be highly protective of their young charges. While they will give you a bark to let you know that strangers are around, they are actually very good with strangers as well. Can you have a pit bull-Lab mix with another dog? Pit bull-Lab mixes are highly dominant animals, so they will try and assert their dominance over any other animals you have in the house. For this reason, they need to be well-socialized from a young age to ensure they learn appropriate behavior. So, while you can introduce a Lab-pit bull mix puppy into a home that already has a dog, you might want to be wary about introducing an adult dog into a household that already has another dog. Do pit bull-Lab mix dogs bark a lot? No, these highly intelligent dogs are not the type to bark continuously or for no reason. They might give you a bark to let you know when something has happened or if someone is approaching. When do Labrador-pit bull mix dogs calm down? From about the age of one year, these dogs begin to calm down and have less energy. The Verdict Labrador retriever-American pit bull terrier mixes make excellent pets for anyone with an active lifestyle and lots of space for these dogs to stretch their legs. They combine the intelligent and friendly temperament of both breeds in an adorable dog that is less likely to suffer from some of the serious medical conditions that are common in both pure breeds. They are also highly trainable and have a calm and friendly temperament as long as they are getting the physical stimulation and the attention that they need. You will need to be prepared to make the time commitment to keep these dogs healthy and happy. Do you have any experience raising a Lab-pit bull mix pup? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Labradoodle Highlights Friendly and intelligent: Labradoodles are known for being friendly and intelligent dogs. They are good with children and other animals, and they are easy to train. Hypoallergenic: Labradoodles are often considered to be hypoallergenic, which means that they do not shed as much as other dogs. This makes them a good choice for people with allergies. Active and playful: Labradoodles are active dogs that need regular exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, going for walks, and swimming. Loyal and devoted: Labradoodles are loyal and devoted dogs that make great companions. They are always happy to see their owners and they love to cuddle. Versatile: Labradoodles are versatile dogs that can be trained for a variety of tasks, including therapy work, obedience, and agility. They can be expensive to purchase and maintain. They require regular grooming, especially if they have a curly coat. They are prone to some health problems, such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Overall, Labradoodles are wonderful dogs that make great companions for people of all ages. If you are looking for a friendly, intelligent, and hypoallergenic dog, a Labradoodle may be a good choice for you. Labradoodle History Wally Conron, who was in charge of the breeding program for the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia, purposefully crossbred a Standard Poodle and Labrador Retriever in to develop the Labradoodle as a hypoallergenic guide dog. The first cross produced Sultan, a dog with a hypoallergenic coat, aptitude, intelligence, and personality suitable for being an effective guide dog. Sultan worked successfully with a woman in Hawaii. Other breeders saw the merit of crossing these two breeds, and the Labradoodle quickly rose in popularity like its Labrador Retriever parent. These dogs are often produced by crossing a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle, but multigenerational breeding has begun in an attempt to produce a viable and recognizable breed. The Australian Labradoodle Association and the International Australian Labradoodle Association are taking steps to move this designer breed into registered breed status in the next few years. These groups have made great efforts to bring breeders together so that they are working to achieve the same standards through multigenerational breeding. Labradoodle Size The Labradoodle comes in three size variations, depending on the size of the Poodle used for the first-generation breeding. The three sizes are Standard, Medium, and Miniature. The Standard Labradoodle should be 22 to 24 inches in height for a male and 21 to 23 inches in height for a female, while both can range in weight from 50 to 65 pounds. The Medium Labradoodle should be 18 to 20 inches high for a male and 17 to 19 inches high for a female, with both weighing from 30 to 45 pounds. The average size for a Miniature Labradoodle is between 14 to 16 inches and 15 to 25 pounds. All of that said, there is a lot of variation in Labradoodle sizes. Some can be smaller or larger than expected. Labradoodle Personality The Labradoodle is an intelligent dog who can make the ideal family pet if properly trained. They are friendly and accept and treat everyone like their best friend. They can be gentle, but they can also be joyful, showing their happiness through exuberant jumping and playing. They also tend to be easygoing, since the Labradoodle was bred not to be aggressive. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training, and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Meeting siblings, parents, or other relatives of the dog is also helpful for evaluating what a puppy will be like when they grow up. Socialization helps ensure that your Labradoodle puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking them to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help them polish their social skills. Here are a few conditions to watch out for: Ear Infections: These can plague Labradoodles because of their floppy ears. The ears trap moisture and should be regularly checked. X-ray screening is the most certain way to diagnose the problem. Either way, arthritis can develop as the dog ages. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia : Similar to hip dysplasia, this is also a degenerative disease. The disease varies in severity: the dog could simply develop arthritis, or they could become lame. Treatment includes surgery, weight management, medical management, and anti-inflammatory medication. It can cause mild or severe seizures that may show themselves as unusual behavior—such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding—or even by falling down, limbs rigid, and losing consciousness. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Allergies: Allergies are a common ailment in dogs, and the Labradoodle is no exception. Treatment varies according to the cause and may include dietary restrictions, medications, and environmental changes. Diabetes Mellitus: This is a disorder in which the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels. The dog will lose weight because food is not being used efficiently. Symptoms of diabetes are excessive urination and thirst, increased appetite, and weight loss. Diabetes can be controlled by diet and the administration of insulin. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA : This is a family of eye diseases that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina. Early in the disease, affected dogs become night-blind; they lose sight during the day as the disease progresses. Many affected dogs adapt well to their limited or lost vision, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Hypothyroidism : This is a disorder of the thyroid gland. It is treated with medication and diet. They require about 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day and would do better with a fenced yard in which to expel some energy. Some Labradoodles, especially in the first generation, can require even more exercise. The Labradoodle makes an excellent jogging companion but also needs some time off-leash to burn off steam. The Labradoodle is an intelligent and eager-to-please dog. Training should be easy as long as consistency and positive reinforcement are the methods. Socialize them from puppyhood, since they tend to hurl themselves headlong into canine situations without regard to the feelings of other dogs. This can lead to some problems if the unknown dog is aggressive. Despite their activity levels, a Labradoodle can adjust to living in suburban or city environments and can do well in rural settings. A crate is also a place where they can retreat for a nap. Crate training at a young age will help your Labradoodle accept confinement if they ever needs to be boarded or hospitalized. Never stick your Labradoodle in a crate all day long, however. Labradoodle Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 2. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on their size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your Labradoodle in good shape by measuring their food and feeding them twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at them. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on their back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see their ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Labradoodle, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Labradoodle Coat Color And Grooming Although a Labradoodle can have one of a range of coat types, the desired length is four to six inches. They have a single coat with hair ranging from straight to loose curls. There are three types of texture: The Hair coat, which is similar to fur in shedding breeds, is the least popular. Hair coats shed and usually have a normal doggy odor. This coat is seen in first generations, although breeders try to avoid it. The Fleece coat has a silky texture often described as an Angora goat texture. This coat ranges from straight to wavy. Labradoodles are considered to be non- to low shedders, especially those with a Fleece or Wool coat. Hair coats tend to shed just as they do in other breeds, ranging from very low to average shedding. The Labradoodle comes in a wide variety of colors. They can also have parti-colored coats, which consist of brindles, phantom, patched, or sable colors. Grooming requirements vary depending on the length and type of coat the dog has. Generally speaking, you can expect to brush a Labradoodle about once or twice per week. Some can be clipped or trimmed every six to eight weeks to keep the coat easy to maintain. Like Labs, Labradoodles can be prone to ear infections, so take a little extra time caring for their ears. Dry and clean them after a swim, and check them once a week for dirt, redness, or a bad odor that can indicate an infection. Then wipe them out weekly with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to prevent problems. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding—and your dog may not cooperate the next time they see the nail clippers come out. Handle their paws frequently—dogs are touchy about their feet—and look inside their mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Labradoodle Children And Other Pets The Labradoodle does well with children and can be an affectionate and gentle companion for any child. They can also be exuberant and might knock down smaller children, but they will love them with all their heart. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Labradoodles usually get along well with other dogs and pets. Like most dogs, they need training and socialization for optimum success at living with and visiting other animals. Labradoodle Rescue Groups Labradoodles are often brought home without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. Many end up in the care of shelters or rescues because of this. It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Labradoodles because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Labrador Retriever or Poodle breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues. More Info For You. These dogs tend to look at the sunny side of life, making fantastic playmates and companions. Since these puppies will grow to be medium to large dogs, they can take a little while to learn their feet. It would be best to exercise caution when these puppies are around small children, as play can get rough sometimes and result in injury. However, with proper guidance, they can acclimate just fine and usually outgrow the puppy phase by roughly 2 years old. With this combo, most litters will be accidents. These things happen, and most folks will just want the puppies to go to good homes without trying to sell them for high prices. So, we highly recommend steering clear of purchasing these animals from potential backyard breeders. Use caution if someone has intentionally bred these dogs and is trying to sell them for profit. Puppies should come with a clean bill of health. They should have sound temperaments, healthy systems, and be in good physical shape. Always check vet records and living conditions—and most importantly, ask about the parents. Buying from a rescue or shelter cuts out a lot of the expense for you right up front. Not only do you have the cost of the puppy itself taken care of, but you also have vaccinations, deworming, anti-parasite, treatment, and potentially microchipping done before you even bring them home. Pitbulls are incredibly loyal, lovable dogs who get very close to their owners. These goofy boys and girls make friends with just anyone they meet. However, Pitbulls can also show an inclination for high prey drive. This can make it complicated if you try to teach them to coexist with smaller pets. However, mixed with the Labradoodle, this instinct might cancel out a little bit. Labradoodles tend to be extremely agreeable with everyone they meet—furry, or otherwise. These dogs are amiable, good-natured, and docile. Also, most Labradoodles are considered hypoallergenic, which might make it easier for those with mild allergies to dogs. When you put these two together, you have a big ball of love who will protect and stand by their families all their days. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are very lovable, getting along with children and adults alike. These animals should have the proper training to ensure they know how to interact with all family members. All the dogs in this combo are super loyal to those in the home. They will consider you part of their pack, protecting and loving you all the way. They will love going on adventures and playing with the whole crew in the backyard. Once you have made a friend, you will have a buddy for life. With proper handling, they will fit in with just about any family—but do be mindful of breed restrictions. Since many rental companies have lists of unacceptable breeds, Pit mixes might not be permitted. Always check with your landlord to ensure you can have this breed if you rent your space. The Pitbull Labradoodle mix can make a terrific buddy for other household pets. They generally get along well with other dogs and can even make friends with household cats, permitting that they are socialized and acclimated well. Some Pitbulls and Labs have a high prey drive, so these traits might bleed into the mix. However, as puppies, they can get along well with our feline friends—and they might even become best pals. They might enjoy chasing or taunting your cats if you get this breed fully grown with no prior socialization. So, always supervise interactions with other critters just to be safe. Accidents happen, even if the play is all in good fun. Because they are an athletic breed, getting them a protein-rich, high-quality dry kibble for the appropriate life stage is best. More and more folks are moving towards fresh food options for their dogs. These fresh recipes are more specific for your individual dog, creating a healthy outside and inside. You can opt for your dog to have a subscription box sent to your front door and cut out all of the extra work for you. Pitbulls are prone to food-related allergies, which might transfer to puppies. If your dog has suspected allergies, your vet will run a series of tests and start food trials to uncover the issue. Often, animal protein is the main culprit, so your vet will suggest a diet plan accordingly. Grain-free recipes are all the rage these days, but no healthy dog requires it. These recipes have been linked to specific health issues and should be entirely avoided unless your dog has a diagnosed grain allergy—which is rare. They will absolutely love going on their daily walks, visiting the dog parks, and accompanying their humans on basically any adventure! These dogs require an owner that can keep up with their daily needs. This will likely be easy to manage if you have multiple members in the household. However, if you are single or have physical restrictions or disabilities, you might not be able to give this breed the right amount of physical exertion. On average, this breed will require over an hour of exercise per day. They will benefit from walks, games, puzzles, and new adventures. Both parent breeds are incredibly loyal and eager to please. These traits help during training; they want nothing more than to make owners happy. Sure, they might be rambunctious or silly occasionally when you want to be serious. These dogs should learn basic concepts like potty training and simple commands with no issue. If you want, try very advanced training, too. If you want to, but need to be better-versed in dog training, trust a professional to help you achieve your goals. Pitbulls have naturally short coats that are a single layer. Labradoodles can range between the curly hair of a poodle to the thick, medium coat of a lab. Your dog has a lot of coat possibilities here. They might have some curls, they might have short straight fur, or a combination. This creates a bonding experience with your dog, keeps them looking fresh, and makes the oils evenly distributed on their skin. When you bring your puppy home, they have likely already had their first shots and parasite treatment. It is very important to start vetting early. However, from that point forward, it is your duty to keep up with necessary vet visits. You can opt for spay and neuter surgery and microchipping in the first year to keep your pet healthy and safe. After the first year of life, visits will decrease to once a year, permitting you to have a healthy pet. While this breed combination is generally pretty healthy, there are some issues that might be a concern. Here are the possibilities. Minor Conditions. Brush their teeth regularly even if chewable treats are given and take them to the vet from time to time to ensure that your health habits are checked and okay for your pitbull poodle mix. If you give your dog table food, chances are, it will develop illnesses brought about by human food. Opt to stick to dog food pellets, soft meat, etc. Bloating: this is a common thing among different breeds. Bloating leads to gastric dilatation-volvulus if not addressed immediately and may lead to death. Hip dysplasia: Poodles are prone to have joint dysplasia most commonly in the hip and pelvic area. This occurrence happens when joints pop out of the socket, causing immense pain for the hybrid. Pitbull Crossed With Poodle Food Requirements Make it a point to ensure and prioritize the type of food you allow your dog to eat because this will significantly affect its longevity of life and health status. Take note of the size and needs of each breed it came from so you may plan a specific diet for your hybrid. Treats are good for training as well but refrain from making it a daily habit to lessen weight gain. Make sure you choose snacks that have low caloric content. Take note of the nutrients needed to ensure a proper diet. Always choose foods that are rich in protein, as they are high energy dogs. Make sure to avoid typical dog allergens such as wheat, corn, and potatoes. Your dog might be prone to skin diseases as well, and its best to strictly follow feeding instructions. If you look hard enough, the market offers a lot of high-quality foods you can give your pitbull poodle mix. Instinct takes pride in improving the coat of any dog that stays on their dog food for a while. High-energy dogs will surely benefit from all the protein this brand gives. It also contains oat fiber for proper digestion, and dried cranberries, blueberries, and spinach as antioxidants. It includes chicken, fish, and whitefish meal. Antioxidants such as Vitamin E, beta carotene, fruits, and vegetables are incorporated to boost the immune system. Oatmeal, barley, brown rice, and rye are included to promote digestion and L-carnitine for fat burning. Their product has natural microorganisms to help aid digestion in line with the incorporation of lentils as a fiber source. Considering that your gorgeous mixed breed is a medium-size dog, you can offer them either the best dry dog food for small dogs or the best large breed dry dog food — it may surprise you to find out which parent they take their taste for food after! Whichever brand you settle on, make sure that it is only the best dry dog food kind as going for the worst dry dog food may have dire consequences on the overall health of your pooch. Pitbull Poodles Exercise Requirements Your boodle is a product of two very different breeds: one is highly active, and the other focuses more on the intellectual aspect so it would be best to choose equipment or toys that can exercise them physically, as well as train their minds and awaken their sensitivity. Make sure you schedule play time with your dogs, whether its walking or running or playing in the park to ensure that they have a healthy lifestyle. You can also incorporate exercise in your home. Try playing hide and seek or fetch in your backyard, anything to keep your dog going and panting. Physical and mental exercises are essential to avoid putting your boodle in an idle state, which can lead to depression, boredom, and destruction. Try your best to plan any form of activity that will keep your pups active physically and mentally. To improve your exercise regimen, here are some toys you can purchase: Canine Hardware Chuckit! Classic Launchers: This is perfect for the non-athletic, stay at home type of owners. This product is also ideal for the energetic side of your hybrid, without giving you the sore arm from repeatedly throwing the ball. FluffyPal Chew Toys For Puppies Small Dogs And Medium Dogs: This product is an all-in-one type because it can be a teething toy which can remove tartar, a potential favorite toy, and it also has a vanilla scent to counter any dog drool smell. Not only does it exercise your hybrid, but it also teaches it about rewards and positive outcomes when they follow a command. Hear Doggy! With the balanced need for exercise, you can choose to specify activities that will enhance their physical and mental abilities. Make sure you have enough space for them to run around and play. So this can be a bit of a challenge because you need to exercise both aspects. Pit bulls tend to exercise wanting the alpha position, which needs training that involves firmness, confidence, and a strong will. A poodle is an intelligent type and will be a bit challenging to train, so they need more patience and understanding. Always start training once you establish what you want and need for your pup. Train your puppies before reaching a year old, starting from simple commands until more difficult ones. Here are tips to make training easier for your boodle: Plan What You Want To Teach: To avoid confusion for your dog, make sure you have a plan as to what commands you want your dog to learn. Schedule Shorter Sessions: The reason for this is to have a higher attention span. If you think long sessions bore your hybrid, cut them down to at least 30 minutes to an hour to ensure, you have their full attention. Practice Positive Reinforcement: a poodle is an intelligent breed, and they remember when you praise them for doing something right. They tend to be shy and aggressive towards new people, which might be the case for your boodle. You can visit the vet and ask for tips, or you can bring them to the park until they familiarize themselves with different people and dogs as well. Potty Training: This is an essential type of training for almost all dogs. It saves you effort and money, and it also lessens the stress of accidentally stepping on unwanted stuff. Throughout history, pit bulls are known and recognized as dangerous and aggressive. On the other hand, poodles require mental stimulation and constant socialization. A mix of the two breeds will still require socialization training. Your pitbull poodle mix can be stubborn at times, but they are also easy to train. Make it a habit to remind family members that your dog needs to exercise, so that you can take turns as to who will take the dog out for a walk. Having a big space is ideal for the energetic side of your dog. Are Labradoodle Pitbull mixes good pets? Regardless of what you choose to call your Labradoodle Pittie mix, you are in for a treat when you pick a well bred, well socialized and healthy puppy or rescue pup. This article gives you everything you need to have an amazing time welcoming your Doodle Pit to the family! What is a Labradoodle Pitbull Mix? The world of hybrid and crossbred dog mixes is getting more nuanced and complex daily. This is exciting in a way but can also be confusing, too! For example, you probably recognize several dog breeds in the name Labradoodle Pitbull mix. And in fact, the Labradoodle is no longer truly considered a newer or hybrid dog breed. This breed is well on its way to becoming its own standalone purebred dog breed. The Labradoodle Pitbull mix dog will have influence from as many as five different purebred dog breeds. How many depends on whether the Labradoodle parent dog is an Australian Labradoodle or American Labradoodle. In contrast, American Labradoodle puppies typically receive genetic influence from just two dog breeds: the Poodle and the Labrador Retriever. As you can see, this can make determining precisely which important traits your Labradoodle Pitbull puppy will inherit slightly more complicated. But that is okay — we are going to help you sort all that out right now! Labradoodle Pitbull Mix Size Labradoodle dogs today are bred in three sizes: miniature, medium and standard. This means the Labradoodle parent dog could range in size height from 14 inches to 24 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 15 pounds to 65 pounds. The Pitbull parent dog, on the other hand, might stand anywhere from 14 inches to 22 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 24 pounds to 75 pounds. If your family includes babies or very young kids, you might consider choosing a miniature or medium Labrapit dog whose smaller size is less likely to create its own issues. Labradoodle Pitbull Coats and Colors Labradoodle dogs can grow up to inherit three different coat types: hair, fleece or wool. The coat is generally single layer. Labradoodles can grow up to display a wide range of solid and parti-colored coats with unique markings and color patterns. Labradoodle Pitbull Mix Grooming Grooming can be an intensive daily process with Labradoodles, who can otherwise be prone to develop tangles and mats close to the skin. All three associated pitbull dog breeds have a short, neat, flat coat that is typically single layer. And all three breeds can inherit a wide variety of solid and parti-colored coats with unique patterns and markings that are simple to brush and maintain. The amount of grooming your new Labradoodle Pitbull will need will depend entirely on which coat type your new dog inherits — at the most, daily, and at the least, weekly. The Labradoodle is known to be a smart, friendly, highly trainable and people-centric dog who gets along well with family members of all ages. This holds true whether the Labradoodle hails from the American or Australian side of their lineage. These dogs are popular for service dog and therapy dog roles for these reasons and also because of their notably low-allergy coats. Where things get slightly less clear is when we factor the pitbull into the mix. Also, terriers in general typically make excellent guard dogs and watch dogs. Labradoodles although less known for guarding can still be protective sometimes. There is no way to present a full picture of the Labradoodle Pitbull mix without addressing the elephant in the room — the reputation of the pitbull dog. What does this mean for you? Well, it means that a well bred, well trained and socialized and healthy Labradoodle Pitbull is likely to be an excellent family companion as well as guard dog. Labradoodle Pitbull dogs are affectionate and friendly but can also have strong guard dog instincts and will need early and ongoing training to manage these traits. A Labradoodle Pitbull mix is best suited to an adult home, with plenty of spare time for socialization and positive reinforcement training. When you choose a healthy Labradoodle Pitbull puppy from a reputable breeder, you can look forward to enjoying the company of an energetic, friendly, loyal, brave and loving pet dog. Are you considering adding a Labradoodle Pitbull mix dog to your family? Let us know in the comments below. More Labradoodle Mixes.

Either way, this section will cover 10 fun things to do with your Pug that will be a blast for both of you. Some of these are perfect if you want to stay at home and others are ideal if you want to get out and about with your Pug. Did you know that the average adult dog can understand approximately words or short phrases? But, even more amazing is that canines are capable of knowing many more. A Border Collie named Chaser knew more than words! Just by speaking the name of objects, your Pug will catch onto some words. But, to speed up learning, have several teaching sessions per day. The only things you will need for this are the objects that you want your Pug to know by name and some training treats. Since Pugs are prone to weight gain, this is a great low-calorie option. For these fun teaching sessions, set out 3 objects onto the floor. Pick up each one, clearly enunciating the word for it. Then, ask your Pug to get one that you call out. This is a great way to increase the bond you have with your Pug while offering your canine family member the gift of self-confidence. And, if your Pug has those down pat, you can both have tons of fun by moving onto tricks. Pugs can learn all sorts of things including roll over, play dead, dancing, praying, hoops, and much more. A great book for this is Dog Tricks: Step by Step Activities , which has easy-to-follow instructions with helpful color photos of each step for both commands and tricks. Cuteness break! This is a great way to have fun with your Pug inside the home, and particularly on a rainy day when you want to prevent boredom for the both of you. Have a helper hold them. Or set up a gate or similar object across a doorway, leaving a small opening, then distract your Pug by tossing an item of interest toward the back end of the room. Your Pug may catch on to this method of distraction rather quickly and that's okay, many dogs will voluntarily be 'distracted' so that their human can hide. Here are some tips to keep this fun: 1 Always plan your hiding spot so that your dog doesn't catch you standing in a room while you wonder where to stash yourself. Behind a sofa or behind a door is a good choice. By the 5th or 6th time, you should be a couple of rooms away, completely out of view. Some good places? The bathtub with the curtain drawn, a closet with the door slightly open, or underneath blankets. This leads to wanting to play the next day. Puzzle games are a fantastic way to have fun with your Pug. There are many types of puzzle games for dogs. For example, the Trixie Flip Board is a flat floor-based puzzle where you hide treats behind compartments and teach your Pug how to nose or paw the various covers, flippers, sliders, and knobs. And, the Trixie Gambling Tower is a see-through tower on a sturdy base that holds treats that are released when your Pug learns to tug on the connector ropes. With these types of fun games, just remember that your Pug is not meant to play alone. It will be your job to show your Pug what to do and offer happy words to encourage them to keep trying or praise when they eventually catch on. Penny, at 5 months old, photo courtesy of Jamie 5: Have fun with bubbles. Many dogs find it thrilling to chase after bubbles and it can be a great way to get your Pug moving and meeting exercise requirements. If you manually blow bubbles for your Pug, this can be done either indoors or outdoors. Depending on the season, it can be a great time to go strawberry picking, apple picking or even explore a pumpkin patch. Often, apple orchards also have peach trees and other fruit trees to fill in between apple season. It can be a great way to do something new with your Pug and afterward or during , you can sample the fruit. Strawberries are safe for dogs to eat. Peach and apple can be given to dogs if you cut out pieces only the core, seeds and pits are toxic. Some dogs will chase after anything that is thrown; but, others need a bit more incentive. If you want to get your Pug to really enjoy a game of fetch, it helps to do this with something novel and exciting. This is a set of 3; All have flashing lights and make silly noises. Each has a different texture, soft rubber, hard rubber, and soft nubs which makes it easy to mouth. And, another terrific option is a Chuckit! Flying Squirrel Toy. These are perfect for Pugs, since they are designed for short-range flight and they spin in the air which helps trigger a chase response. With fetch, keep in mind that your level of enthusiasm plays a big role. Be involved and alert, and speak in an animated, happy tone. Just remember that fetch toys are designed specifically for throwing and retrieving and typically are not sturdy enough to be chew toys; so, reserve this just for when you are playing fetch with your Pug. There are lots of restaurants that allow dogs , either inside the eating establishment or outdoors on a patio. Some places even have menu items specifically for dogs. Pugs will be sedentary if allowed to be and it is true that overexertion is not a good thing for brachycephalic breeds. But, Pugs need daily exercise just like any other dog to manage weight, maintain muscle mass, and keep the heart strong. Going on hikes can be a fun way to get your Pug moving, all you need to do is choose the right route and prep your Pug for safety. These will be short usually 1 to 3 miles in total , have well-established trails mostly free of rocks, roots and other hazards, and have very little elevation gain. During those times, offer cool water. The container itself is stainless steel construction which makes it very durable. This has a neat design where a connected BPA-free section flips up and into a bowl. As you may know, brachycephalic breeds like the Pug should never be on leash and collar. A collar around the neck, especially when connected to a leash, can severely impede breathing. Harness are a much safer option. The neck is free and pressure from the leash is displaced over the shoulders, chest, and back. As added bonus, it is much easier to control and lead a dog when using a harness. This is lined for comfort and also made of a breathable air-mesh which helps keep a dog cool. These start at size extra-small for young pups and go up from there. And, this is available in 13 different colors so that your Pug will always look stylish. You'll want to pair the harness with a retractable leash so that you can let your Pug out and reel him in as needed without having to fumble with the cord. Most hiking spots close at sunset, so you will want to leave plenty of time to ensure that you and your guy or gal are done with time to spare. Miss Moo, at 12 years old, photo courtesy of Jerry, Shelly and Taylor Koltz Choose an activity to celebrate the season. Have fun with your Pug by making the most out of whichever season it happens to be. In the summer, take your Pug to a dog-friendly beach to walk along the shoreline. In the spring, head out for a picnic. In autumn, rake up a pile of colorful leaves and jump into it together. In the winter, bundle up your Pug and play in the snow for up to 20 minutes. You may also like: Pugs with Itchy Skin - The top leading causes of the frustrating problem, along with exact steps to resolve things. Top 10 Pug Eating Issues - It's not uncommon for this breed to have some sort of eating problem; see the top 10 along with exact steps to resolve them. Best Shampoos for Pugs - What you use during the bath will have lasting effects on skin and coat health, how long your Pug smells good, and more. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. We all understand that walks, grooming, nail clipping, and veterinarian visits keep our Pugs healthy. What about the physical and mental activity? Pugs start playing as soon as they can move around in the litter. Pug Puppies Need their Mates Of course, we all want our puppies now! If you find a breeder willing to give up her pups at six weeks, understand this is not good for your Pug puppy. Many breeders will wait until ten weeks before you can pick up your puppy. Puppies should not be taken from their littermates before eight weeks. As adults, they may have behavior problems, be more fearful or anxious. Being with Mom and brothers and sisters teach a puppy a lot about life. Play starts in the litter between 2 and 4 weeks of age. Puppies play with each other and their mothers. They learn social skills as they play fight, biting one another and their mother. When a bite is too hard, someone yelps. If the pup that did the biting refuses to stop, the Pug puppy that just got bite will refuse to play. This way, Pug puppies learn to control their biting. In the litter Pug puppies, learn to restrain their aggression. They learn to submit to others and cooperate. They are overall friendlier and more socially adjusted. Games for Pugs with people are essential for Pug puppies. They are more social and fun to have around when they become adults. Pugs Need to Play with Humans Dogs need to play. We need to get off our butts and have a good time. We, humans, tend to forget about the importance of having a good time. I grew up in a time when kids went outside for hours at a time, into the fields and the woods. I would take my mutt dog with me, and we would have fun. He was my trusted pal. Playing like that was the best thing for both of us. Keeps your Pug calm and well-behaved at home. These Pug dogs whine less and jump on people less. They also experience less aggression and anxiety. Games for Pugs help to build confidence in shy Pugs. It wards off boredom. Play helps to build social skills. Play strengthens the bond between you and your Pug. It makes you happy. It makes your Pug so happy!!! For example, hide it behind a table leg while you are in plain view of your Pug. If your Pug is treat driven, which most Pugs are, she will find the treat pretty quickly. Now put the treat in a nearby room and say find it. You can walk in the general area of the treat, but do not point it out to him. It could make her dependent on you to find the treat. She will learn to wait for you to find it for her. She also has to use her brain to get it. This is one of my favorite of the games for Pugs. Running Games for Pugs Dogs love to run. Even our flat-faced little Pugs love to run and play. Mimi and Lulu love to go in the fenced back yard and go after each other. First, Lulu is chasing Mimi, and then they seem to switch naturally. Lulu often gets the Zoomies while Mimi and I look on. It is so fun to watch her run around the house in glee. One running game that is easy and rewarding is to have Mimi and Lulu sit and stay. I go on the other side of the yard. I call them to come, and they come tearing across the yard. This usually ends in lots of petting and praise. Sometimes I mix it up with a treat, just to keep it interesting. Running games for Pugs are easy to make up on your own. I will sometimes use a treat to switch out the toy to the treat. Make sure you give her that recovery time. Chasing is fun exercise, and it keeps them in good cardio shape. Tug Games for Pugs Tug is one of the fun games for Pugs when played correctly. Let your Pug dog take one side of the rope toy or whatever you have decided to use. Let your Pug dog pull on the toy and move it gently from side to side. Do not jerk the toy up and down as this could cause spinal injury. Do not move the toy vigorously. They need to be old enough to understand that it is only to be played with gentle movements. Pugs love this game and let them growl away like the big dogs they think they are! Mind Games for Pugs Mental exercise is good for Pugs of all ages. It is especially good for senior Pugs who may be bored and less able to be physically active. Mind games are great games for Pugs. They create confidence and strengthen his relationship with you. You and your Pug as you work together work as a team. He gets a mental work-out keeping him mentally fit. Playing the game with you is a rewarding experience. He gets to show off and sharpen his excellent problem-solving. Try a Bob-A-Lot. Fill the food with is dinner. This is for feeding his entire meal. Not only will it keep him mentally active, but it will slow down his eating. Many Pugs have problems with gulping their food. There are plenty of interactive dog toys on Amazon. Check them out and read the reviews to see which one might be best for your Pug dog. The Shell Games for Pugs The shell game is a fun game for mental activity. With Pugs, they use treats. They are not actually following the treat by sight as a human would with a coin. But it does help with their problem-solving skills. Steps to Play the Shell Game with your Pug Use 3 cups and some great smelling treats Put a treat under one of the three cups while your Pug dog watches Shuffle the cups around Be patient as your Pug dog tries to find the cup with the treat underneath When she selects the right cup, she gets to eat the treat Jumping Games for Pugs Yes, our Pugs can jump. Teaching your Pug to jump over things will build muscles and confidence. Even if your Pug never wins first place on the agility team, this trick will be a lot of fun. Make it fun. STEP 1. Put the broom or stick on the ground. Put a treat on the stick and let her eat it. STEP 2. Place a treat on the far side of the stick, so your Pug dog has to step over it to get the treat. If he tries to go around the stick, pick up the treat. Again, put the treat back down until he steps over the object to get it. Be sure to use a lot of verbal praise when he accomplishes this. Repeat this several times. STEP 3. Continue with one treat each time he crosses over the stick. STEP 4. Use a book on each end and raise the stick one inch high. Practice until he is comfortable going over that height. STEP 5. Repeat going over two inches. Before moving up an inch, be sure your Pug dog is comfortable crossing over at that height. STEP 6. Eventually, your Pug dog will have to jump to get over the stick and get his treat. Get the stick to the highest limit that your Pug can jump over. STEP 7. When your Pug is solid with this trick, try having him jump over other objects. Keep it safe and fun! There are many different jumping games for Pugs. Just use your creativity. Your Pug may get very excited while playing games for Pugs. You reward the behavior by your happy voice and continuing to have fun. Instead, remember to use whatever verbal cue you have taught down, stop, etc. Other behaviors include nipping, biting, grabbing things out of your hands, running away. You may have running away as part of a game, but make sure your Pug knows the difference. He only gets to run away when you request it. For example, he cannot run away when he gets in the laundry basket and gets your socks. Watch his body language. Stop that game. You can try again later with the original game but take it more slowly. We all get busy and tired. Pugs need minimal exercise. Picking one of these games a couple of times a day keeps our Pugs physically and mentally active. A chase game is only going to be 20 minutes, max. This includes breaks, so your Pug dog does not get overheated. A game of tug can be played after dinner while you have the TV on. A jumping game can keep him mentally and physically active. And what a cool trick to show your friends when they come over. A trick is always much more entertaining when a Pug does it. Now get off the couch and go play a game with your Pug!

This is not true. They have a large, muscular build They have a fluffy tail Their ears are erect They have a double coat They are heavy shedders They are a solid black color They can be larger They often have a straighter back Their coat can be longer, sometimes with a flowing mane around the rear of the neck , skirting on either side of the body between the front and back legs and feathering long hair on the ears, backs of legs and beneath the tail 3. Black German Shepherd puppies are born black All German Shepherd puppies are either born black, gray or white and can change color as they grow. Their true coat color can usually be determined at about 8 weeks of age. Black German Shepherd puppies are born black and will stay black through adulthood. So, if you are looking for a solid Black German Shepherd puppy, you will want to get her at this age, and not before, in order to be sure she is indeed a solid black color. A German Shepherd that is, say, black and tan, can carry the recessive solid black gene and produce Black German Shepherd puppies. However, both parents must have the recessive gene for solid black to appear in the litter. It can happen. The second way solid Black German Shepherd puppies are produced is by mating two solid blacks. This mix can only produce a solid black litter. The color of this dog does not affect its temperament. The Black German Shepherd is just as loyal, alert, active and intelligent as the standard variety and is not predisposed to aggression. She is often aloof at first, but once you bond with her, she will be your companion for life. Black German Shepherds are also incredibly trainable and are used as police and military dogs, disability aid dogs, and obedience dogs. Look how obedient this month old Black Shepherd puppy is: Just like any German Shepherd, their protective instinct can be strong. These are dogs that were used to herd and protect livestock, and they will do the same with their human pack! In the case of your family coming into danger, have no doubt this dog will defend you. As a companion dog, however, you want her to recognize that not all people are a threat. Make sure you socialize her from a young age so that she gets on well with people in adulthood. They can be pricey Black German Shepherds are quite rare and for this reason tend to cost more, especially if they have the long, luxurious coat. Like all German Shepherds, they are prone to health problems The German Shepherd breed can, unfortunately, suffer from numerous health issues. The number one concern for this breed is hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. This condition occurs when the ball and socket joint is malformed and can result in arthritis or even lameness. This can be helped by maintaining a healthy weight in your dog. Other potential health problems include: Heart disease. Images internally provided The majestic German Shepherd is renowned globally, not just for its striking appearance, but also for its intelligence, loyalty, and trainability. Among the diverse color variants of the German Shepherd, the black short-haired version is a captivating sight, a blend of power and elegance. Historical Roots Originating from Germany in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the German Shepherd stands out not only for its imposing stature but also for its unparalleled combination of intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. This breed has secured its spot as one of the most recognized and beloved dogs in the world. Physical Attributes Short haired German Shepherds are medium to large-sized dogs, showcasing a blend of strength, agility, and elegance. They have a dense double coat that can vary in length and color, from black and tan to sable or even all-black. Their almond-shaped eyes exhibit intelligence and curiosity, while their ears — often erect and forward-pointing — add to their alert demeanor. Temperament German Shepherd puppies are known for their intelligence, making them quick learners and highly trainable. Their loyalty to their handlers or family members is unmatched, often leading to strong protective instincts. This protective nature, coupled with their bravery, has made them indispensable in roles like police work, search and rescue, and military operations. Socialization from a young age is crucial to ensure that their protective instincts are well-balanced, preventing undue aggression or timidity. By visiting their website, potential adopters can gain insights into available litters, the health and pedigree of the puppies, and the meticulous care they receive. Complete with photographs, detailed descriptions, and contact information, the German Shepherd Puppies NC website simplifies the journey of finding and adopting a short-haired German Shepherd puppy, ensuring that residents of North Carolina are only a click away from their future four-legged family member. Their years of expertise have given them a unique understanding of the breed, allowing them to provide puppies that are both healthy and well-adjusted. Top-Rated Breeder: The accolades speak for themselves. Their meticulous care ensures that every puppy is healthy, well-socialized, and ready to be a part of a loving family. Passion for the Breed: Their undying love for the German Shepherd breed is palpable in every interaction. In Conclusion The journey to finding the perfect pet can often be filled with uncertainty and countless options. However, when it comes to black short-haired German Shepherd puppies in North Carolina, the path becomes straightforward. German Shepherd Puppies NC, with its impeccable reputation, decades of experience, and genuine love for the breed, is undeniably the best choice for families looking to adopt. Ambassador With a passion for storytelling and a commitment to the highest standards of journalism, Victor Williams brings his extensive experience and global expertise to his contributions for NY Weekly. His education in world history sparked his interest in traveling the globe and gaining a deeper understanding of different cultures and societies. Through his travels, Williams has gained a wealth of knowledge and experiences, which he draws upon in his reporting. With a commitment to journalistic excellence and a love of adventure, Williams continues to be a leading voice in the world of news reporting. Next Post. Playfulness Watchdog Ability The German Shepherd Dog is a natural protector and so adaptable and intelligent that they have performed about every job known to dogs. If he had opposable thumbs, he would be unstoppable. Intelligent and obedient, purebred German Shepherd puppies are more than devoted pets - they are lifelong companions. Pure-breed black German shepherd puppies have the right temperament to make engaging family pets. Leave them alone or confined. These pups will grow mischievous and become high-strung. As the name implies, they originated in Germany in the late s. As part of the Herding Group, German Shepherds were used for livestock, herding, and guarding sheep. Back then, GSDs were not considered pets or companions but servants of farmers. Although German Shepherds weren't considered household pets, their owners did provide proper food, protection, and shelter. In the early s, a German cavalry officer named Captain Max Von Stephanitz made it his mission to create an ideal German herder. He co-founded the world's first club devoted to German Shepherds. Von spent 35 years promoting and refining the wonderful breed. People finally noticed how strong, smart, and obedient German Shepherds are. So now the military employs them as working dogs. Their intelligence, strength, speed, obedience, agility, and keen sense of smell make them perfect for the job. German Shepherds are also very versatile and make great companions. Their impressive and lovable personalities soon drew the attention of other countries. German Shepherd dog was brought to the United States in the early s, and American breeders began to develop their own lines of the breed. The American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd in , and the species has been one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States ever since. Today, GSDs are not only considered one of the most favorite household pets. The versatility and outstanding characteristics make German Shepherds beautiful pets, companions, and protectors. Due to the breed's reputation for being loyal, courageous, and easy to train, German Shepherds are used as police or military dogs. Personality Know the personality and temperament of your German Shepherd Dog German Shepherds are well-known for their smartness, confidence, intelligence, loyalty, and courageous personalities. As household pets, German Shepherd dogs get along with their owners and other members of the family. However, they do not get along with strangers easily, but with time, they warm up to anyone who tries to be friendly with them. The German Shepherd dog breed is distinguished for courage, loyalty, and the ability to maintain training. Because German Shepherds have strong guardian instincts, they tend to be loyal and protective of their owners and children. Given their strong guardian instincts, inadequate training and poor socialization can make them aggressive toward strangers. Their over-protective and aggressive behaviors can put any owner at risk. Therefore, GSDs should be carefully socialized with proper training from a very young age. The best thing about GSDs is that they are intelligent. German Shepherd dogs are usually active and like to be occupied with an activity. They do well with people who allow them to stay active. They need an ample amount of exercise daily to retain their activeness. They should be continually exposed to supervision during the training period. Most importantly, your German Shepherd should not be confined to a kennel or backyard alone, as GSDs like to be around their loved ones. Keeping them tied up alone will make them lonely and aggressive. A German Shepherd dog should be purchased from a good and reputed breeder. We do not hand over any puppy or dog without having them vet-checked. Health Health is wealth, even for your German Shepherd dog. As a dog lover, when you welcome a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they become an integral part of your life. Besides training your dog, it is best to focus on your pet's wellness. You must do everything you need to optimize your pet's health and happiness. Most German Shepherds are usually healthy dogs if purchased from a good breeder. A responsible breeder will screen breeding stock to check on health conditions such as elbow dysplasia, canine hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, etc. The German Shepherd Dog has an average lifespan of 9 to 13 years. Male, Adult German Shepherd weighs around lbs. Female, Adult German Shepherd weighs around lbs. They can run 30 mph Maximum Running. Moreover, German Shepherds are prone to experience problems like bloat, skin allergies, gastric torsion, and abdomen swelling. German Shepherds experience these conditions. German Shepherds must be taken to the vet, like most other dogs, for routine health checkups. A regular checkup allows you to track your pet's health condition. Owners should be aware of all the GSDs' health-related symptoms to take care of them by taking their dogs to the vet when any symptom occurs. Besides, if you want to buy a healthy pet, you must contact a good breeder. We do everything a good breeder would do to deliver a healthy puppy to a customer. We also discuss health problems in the genetics of a puppy or dog. Grooming The importance of grooming your German Shepherd dog The adorable appearance of the German Shepherd dog is known to all. They are very adorable and majestic to look at. GSDs usually shed twice a year. Proper grooming helps in controlling shedding and keeps the coat nice. They only need a quick brushing a few times a week. A thorough brush helps to remove loose hairs from their coat and keep the fur nice and shiny. During the shedding time, frequent brushing is required to prevent the mess caused by heavy shedding. Giving the occasional bath should suffice to help them clean and smell nice. Your dog can end up hurting you unintentionally if the nails are too long. Invest in quality dog grooming products to ensure proper and safe grooming. Thus, do not forget to groom your precious German Shepherd dog. Finding How to find the right German Shepherd Breeders? The German Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breeds in the U. S and all over the world. GSDs have love and affection towards their owners, whether a puppy, a young dog, or an adult dog. Find and choose a good breeder to find the right German Shepherd puppy. Finding a good breeder is the key if you want a purebred and healthy German Shepherd puppy or dog. You need a good and reputed breeder to find the right puppy or dog for your family. Most importantly, puppies and dogs sold by breeders must be AKC-registered, which means that they follow the rules and regulations established by the AKC. We care more about placing the puppies in the right homes than making big bucks. We are happy to share any information you need about a puppy. We welcome any questions about a puppy with a big smile. The price is determined by several factors, including but not limited to the following: The breeder's location Show Record How many puppies can a German shepherd have? A German shepherd can have six to eight puppies. Larger litter are usually born to dogs that are bred early and often. The mother's milk production is also stimulated by the hormone prolactin, which is secreted in large amounts after mating. When do German shepherd puppies' ears stand up? Some puppies' ears stand up as early as 5 or 6 weeks old, but others don't have completely erect ears until they're a few months old. As long as the puppy's ears start to stand up by about 8 or 9 weeks old, there's no need to worry. If the puppy's ears haven't begun to stand up by then, you should take it to the vet to see if there's a problem. Contact us before the puppies get sold. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. The black German shepherd is a rare and highly sought-after variety of the standard German shepherd dog breed. Although multiple color variations of GSD exist, black German shepherd puppies are one of the most popular thanks to their sleek, handsome coats. The pitch-black color that gives these dogs their magnificent appearance is the result of a naturally occurring recessive gene. This means black German shepherds have naturally existed for quite some time, but they are much rarer than their black and tan counterparts. When properly socialized from a young age, black German shepherds make wonderful companions and excellent guard dogs. These large doggos are best suited for experienced owners with large homes and fenced-in yards. If you are looking for a handsome companion that can double as a guard dog, the black German shepherd is a fantastic choice! Keep on reading to find out more about this rare variety and decide if it is the right canine for you. Black German shepherds are a color variation of the standard German shepherd dog. While they may look completely different, these dogs are the same breed, and the black variety is recognized in the official GSD standard. While purebred black German shepherd puppies can compete in dog shows, they are often overlooked in favor of the classic black and tan look. These dogs were later used by the military as messengers, sentries, guards, supply carriers, and rescuers. Black shepherds tend to be slightly larger than the average GSD, and most have a straighter back. When it comes to features, you can expect your black German shepherd puppy to have a clear-cut head, pointed ears, a long snout, almond-shaped brown eyes, and a black nose. Males are usually around 24 to 26 inches tall at the withers and weigh between 65 and 90 pounds. Female dogs are typically smaller and stand between 22 and 24 inches tall and weigh from 50 to 75 pounds. The average GSD can be black and tan, black, sable, grey, red and black, or even black and silver. In German shepherds, black coats are caused by a recessive gene. This means a puppy needs to inherit two copies of a recessive gene from both mom and dad in order to have a black coat. For example, if you mate two sable German shepherds that carry this recessive gene, a quarter of their puppies will have a black coat. However, if you breed a black German shepherd with a sable dog that carries the gene, roughly half of their litter will be black in color. Breeding two black German shepherds is the only guaranteed way to produce a litter of completely black puppies. Bear in mind that all German shepherd puppies change color as they grow. Coat Texture These pitch-black canines have a medium-to-long double coat. The coat can be either straight or wavy and will shed all year long and go through two blowouts — once in the spring and again in the fall. If you decide to welcome a black GSD into your home, be prepared to welcome lots of loose doggy hair as well! Since these doggos shed a lot, invest in a powerful pet hair vacuum cleaner and be prepared to vacuum every day to keep your home clean and tidy. Black German Shepherd Temperament And Character Black German shepherds are best known for their loyal, courageous, obedient, and watchful temperament. Thanks to their protective nature and working history, they make amazing guard dogs that will fiercely protect your family and your home. A properly trained and socialized black GSD puppy will get along well with people outside the family but remain a loyal guardian and protector. They are naturally wary of strangers, so early socialization and consistent training are a must! Although they are working dogs at heart, black GSD make wonderful companions and even get along with children and other pets when properly socialized. An anxious or stressed black shepherd will turn to destructive behavior to relieve their frustrations. As a result, your black German shepherd pup may decide to chew woodwork , destroy your home, or bark loudly. While they are not the best choice for first-time owners, black shepherds make fantastic family pets and companions when properly trained and socialized. Because they tend to get so attached to their people, these pups are better off in homes where someone is usually around to keep them company. Activity Level Highly energetic and agile, these handsome solid black pups need regular exercise to stay healthy and in good shape. Apart from at least two daily walks, your black German shepherd pup will also enjoy running, jogging, hiking, cycling, swimming, or any other activity that allows them to spend time with you. Caring For Black German Shepherd Puppy While they are not harder to care for than standard German shepherds, your black GSD still needs a lot of love, care, and affection to stay happy and thrive. It is crucial to design a consistent care routine for your pooch and keep track of regular veterinary check ups to detect any health problems early on. When creating a care routine for your GSD puppy, pay special attention to the following factors: Exercise The black German shepherd is a highly energetic dog that needs at least one hour of intense exercise every day. Enrolling your puppy in agility classes is a great way to keep them exercised and can be a fun and entertaining experience for them. Games such as fetch, flyball, Frisbee, tug-of-war, and hide and seek are also great options and will keep your pooch exercised and entertained. Intellectual Stimulation Black German shepherds are highly intelligent dogs that can easily become bored, frustrated, and destructive when not mentally stimulated. A bored or anxious black shepherd can cause serious damage to your home and belongings. Companionship Loyal and devoted to a fault, black GSD puppies make superb family dogs and companions. They form strong bonds with their people and are happiest when they can spend time and interact with their families. While they are large and intimidating at first, these pups are loving companions that crave affection and attention. Black German shepherd puppies need company and are best suited for homes where someone is around all day. Grooming The black German shepherd is a high-maintenance dog when it comes to grooming. If your pup has a medium-length coat, brush them two to three times a week to remove loose hair and keep their coat in pristine condition. Use a de-shedding tool to remove loose hair and minimize the shedding during spring and fall. To further reduce shedding, bathe your GSD with an anti-shed dog shampoo every two months or as necessary. You should also brush their teeth at least three times a week and trim their nails every other month. Diet An ideal diet for black German shepherds should be formulated for a large-sized dog with high energy. When choosing the best food for your pooch, make sure it contains higher levels of protein, a moderate amount of fat, and easily digestible complex carbohydrates. Keep in mind that black German shepherd puppies grow extremely quickly between the ages of four and seven months, which makes them susceptible to bone disorders. Feed your pup high-quality, low-calorie food to prevent them from growing too rapidly. Known Health Problems As a breed, German shepherds are considered generally healthy. Black GSD and all other German shepherds are prone to the same health problems, including: Hip Dysplasia: This is a hereditary condition that causes malformation of a hip joint. Affected dogs may or may not show clinical signs of this condition, but in most cases, dogs experience pain and lameness in one or both hind legs. Elbow Dysplasia: This is another hereditary condition commonly seen in large breeds. This condition is caused by varying growth rates of the three bones that make up the elbow, resulting in joint looseness. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus: Also known as bloat, GDV is a life-threatening condition that affects large, deep-chested dog breeds, particularly if they are fed one large meal a day, eat rapidly, drink a lot of water after eating, or exercise just after a meal. Degenerative Myelopathy: This is a progressive disease of the spinal cord. This condition affects the part of the cord that gives information to the brain regarding the rear legs. Lifespan The black German shepherd has an average lifespan of around 9 to 13 years. With proper care and regular veterinary checkups, these pups can reach their senior years in good health. Training A Black German Shepherd Puppy Black German shepherd puppies are highly intelligent and obedient, which makes them very easy to train. These pups are fairly easy to housetrain, and they also learn obedience commands after just a few repetitions. Like all other dogs, black German shepherds thrive on reward-based training and a lot of praise. Positive reinforcement training techniques are highly effective for training puppies and adult dogs and are much more reliable than dominance training. Besides training, you should start socializing your black GSD puppy as soon as you bring them home. Since these pups are naturally aloof with strangers, early socialization is essential and will help your dog to become friendlier to other people. Try to expose your puppy to as many people, places, situations, animals, children, and sounds from a young age to help them grow into an outgoing dog. Properly trained and socialized black German shepherd pups make wonderful companions to people of all ages and families with children. Due to their large size and highly energetic nature, these dogs are best suited for large homes with spacious, fenced yards. While they can live outdoors, black shepherds should primarily be kept indoors so they can regularly interact with their people and stay close to them. In addition, because of their high social needs and potential to develop separation anxiety, they thrive in families where someone is at home often and able to keep them company. However, when compared to other varieties, black German shepherds are quite rare and hard to come by. Finding a reputable breeder might require a bit of research on your part, but all the extra effort will pay off in the long run. Since black German shepherds are rare and in demand, be mindful of puppy mills and unethical breeders who just want to make a quick buck. However, the exact price depends on a lot of factors, namely the breeder, supply and demand in your area, and pedigree and quality of both parent breeds. Black German shepherds make wonderful family pets and companions. Naturally loyal and devoted to their owners, they like to be close to their people and spend lots of time by their side. Plus, due to their protective nature, black German shepherds make excellent watchdogs and will always feel the urge to watch over you and your family. The black German shepherd is a rare and absolutely stunning color variation of a standard German shepherd dog. Loyal and protective of their owners, these dogs make fantastic family companions and can also serve as vigilant guard dogs. If you want to bring a black shepherd pup home, be prepared to: Exercise your pooch for at least one hour every day Start training and socialization from a young age Groom your dog at least three times a week Do you own a black German shepherd dog? What do you like the most about your pooch? Share your experience owning this gorgeous dog with us and our readers in the comment section below! Related Article:. However, the black German Shepherd is much less well-known. This coloration is extremely rare and not currently recognized by most major kennel clubs. But they have since grown significantly in popularity. Usually, German Shepherds have a single coat pattern — black and tan. However, fully black German Shepherds do exist. This is not due to crossbreeding; the gene for completely black coats is carried by purebred German Shepherds. It is much rarer than the usual coloration, though. They have the same build and grow to be the about same size as a purebred German Shepherd. Males usually weight between 65 to 90 pounds, while females are 50 to 75 pounds. These are considered medium-to-large dogs, so consider whether you have the space before adopting one. Their height is around inches. This is correct for both males and females. Black German Shepherds are completely black. Most German Shepherds have at least a little bit of black on them. However, German Shepherds have nothing but black. Their coat is generally the same besides for their different in coloration. Their double-coat helps them stay clean and warm. As working dogs, these canines are built to work, and it shows. This coat color is accepted by the AKC. It is also not the result of crossbreeding, as some misinformation may state. Instead, it is simply a rare color that very few German Shepherds end up with. It only showed up recently and is sometimes encouraged through selective breeding. While the gene for a solid black coat was once though to be recessive, many people now consider it to be dominant. These dogs always have dark-colored eyes. Blue eyes are extremely rare and usually a sign that a dog has other breeds in his pedigree, such as Huskies. Other than the color, the body of black German Shepherds looks just like his black and tan cousins. As in all German Shepherds, the ears are typically erect, though floppy ears in adult can be seen occasionally. History By , the generalized herding dogs of Europe had split themselves into a few different distinctive breeds, including the German Shepherd. During the s, there was an attempt to standardize dog breeds and promote traits that encouraged sheep herding, including speed, strength, endurance, and intelligence. However, varieties still existed from place to place. Slight breeding difference had led to slightly different shepherds. During the industrial revolution, the need for sheepdogs decreased along with the predator population. Luckily, by this point, people were already recognizing the intelligence and ability of the previous herding dogs. From this dog the breed standard grew. In just a few generations, the German Shepherd was one of the most populous in the world. Honrand fathered many puppies. Nearly all German Shepherds today are descended from him. There was quite a bit of inbreeding that occurred to produce the German Shepherd breed we know today. The Black German Shepherd has likely existed to some extent since the breed was produced. However, many dogs do not carry the completely black gene. Many completely black German Shepherds in the past were likely culled at birth due to the defect. Today, the gene is seeing a reoccurrence. Personality and Temperament The German Shepherd is often considered to be an aggressive dog. However, this is not completely true. They do have significant protective instincts, as they were originally bred to guard flocks of sheep. For instance, the German Shepherd has a bite force of over 1, newtons. But there are several dogs that rank around this as well, including the Rottweiler, Pit Bull, and Labrador Retriever. Most dogs at about this size are going to have a similar bite strength. German Shepherds are considered to be moderately active. They need just about as much exercise as dogs of a similar size. This breed is well-known for being heavily devoted to their people and easy to train. When trained properly, they will absolutely listen. However, they do have innate protective instincts. If you want to dog that is going to be protective of their family, this is a great choice. These canines do need extensive socialization starting at a young age, though. Otherwise, they can become a bit too protective of their family and territory. These canines are not the friendliest. They are people-oriented, but not with strangers. They tend to be quite unsure with strangers. At best, they usually ignore them completely. Other times, they may be obviously uncomfortable. German Shepherds have high prey drive. On the one hand that means that you can easily motivate them with a ball or tug toy. On the other hand, it requires a lot of supervision for owners that have small dogs or cats in addition to their shepherd. While your dog might not outright try to fight with a cat or smaller dog, he could even accidentally hurt them during play. They are extremely intelligent and devoted to their owners. Unlike some dog breeds, they will listen to their owners in most real-life situations. They can learn a variety of different commands very easily and will actually do them when asked. However, these dogs do need the training. Without it, they can be overly protective and even potentially dangerous. Their ease of training does make fulfilling this need quite easy, though. We do recommend puppy classes starting at a very young age. These classes provide the extra socialization that your dog needs, as well as allows you to jumpstart their training. We only recommend private classes for dogs that are too reactive around strangers and other dogs to thrive in a group class. Usually, only German Shepherds who were not properly socialized as puppies will fit into this category. If you adopt an older German Shepherd that seems in need of socialization, we recommend taking private classes with an experienced trainer. You can work your dog through some basic commands and then work on socializing them with safe people and dogs. The trainer should be able to help you in this regard. The German Shepherd is a more active breed, and completely black German Shepherds are not different. While there are more active dog breeds out there, these canines are best for those that are quite active. They need at least two medium-to-long walks per day. Puppies will likely need some extra play sessions as well. Health and Care German Shepherds are pretty healthy as far as purebred dogs come. However, they are prone to some health problems. Many of these are due to the inbreeding that occurred early in the breed, which made some previously rare traits more common. Black German Shepherds are not known to have any more health problems than their black-and-tan cousins. Their coat coloration is not associated with any particular health issues or anything of that sort. It is important to purchase these dogs from a qualified breeder, as they tend to perform plenty of health testing on any dog they plan on breeding. This helps them recognize health problems and pick only the healthiest dogs possible for producing litters. We do recommend purchasing a German Shepherd that was bred as a working dog — not one produced as a show dog. These two lines of dogs are somewhat distinct as they have been bred for two very different purposes. Show dogs tend to confirm to an extreme extent to the breed standard, which increase the amount of health problems they develop. On the other hand, working dogs were bred with practicality in mind. Many German Shepherds have hip and elbow dysplasia. This disease occurs when the ball and socket of the joint do not line up correctly, leading to excess wear-and-tear. Eventually, this cause arthritis-like symptoms, but at a much earlier age than arthritis typically shows up. Usually, this damage occurs during puppyhood when the dog is growing, but they may not show symptoms until a few years later. There are a few things pet owners can do to reduce the chance of hip and elbow dysplasia in their German Shepherd. Many of these dogs are also affected by degenerative spinal stenosis. However, this study had a notably small sample size, so it may not be entirely accurate. On a good note, German Shepherds are actually less likely to get ear infections than other dogs. Degenerative myelopathy occurs often enough in German Shepherds that they are likely predispositioned to it. This test is very expensive, so many breeders perform it on their dogs before breeding as well as on the puppies after they are born. Once the test is used regularly, it becomes very easy to remove it from the breed. Von Willebrand disease also occurs at a higher level in German Shepherds than in the normal dog population. It is likely that they are genetically predispositioned to it. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency occurs in German Shepherds as well. This condition is usually treated with medication and pancreatic supplements. It is most likely genetic, so health testing and keeping track of pedigrees is important to eliminating it in the breed. Medium-coated dogs will only need brush two to three times a week. Long coats will need combed through at least once a day to prevent mats. Because of their double coat, dogs of all coat types will shed profusely. Do not adopt a black German Shepherd unless you can deal with a lot of extra hair. Even if you brush your dog daily, they will still shed everywhere. Usually, this occurs in the spring and fall, but it can depend on your local climate. Shedding is also tied to hormones — not just the weather. There is little you can do to reduce the overall amount of shedding your dog does. However, anti-shedding shampoos and a high-quality diet can help. It is usually not too difficult to find a normal German Shepherd breeder somewhere near you. However, not all breeders produce black dogs. Most will also be significantly more expensive than a black-and-tan German Shepherd due to their rarity. Many people want a black German Shepherd, which means that you often have to be prepared to pay a bit extra. However, this is still much cheaper than you might expect for a large dog. As a common breed, they are usually cheaper than most. It may be tempting to cut corners and purchase a cheaper puppy. However, this is not recommended, especially when it comes to German Shepherds. These puppies need socialized from the moment they are born. Often, breeders put in this time and effort. We highly recommend only purchasing puppies form very experienced breeders. Otherwise, you may end up with an unsocialized puppy and a troublesome temperament. You should always ask about the pedigree of the parents, as well as the health testing the breeder has done. Ask to see the parents if at all possible. Sometimes, the father will be located somewhere else, so only the mother will be at the breeder. In this case, it is usually fine to just see the mother. You can tell a lot about a breeder form how they keep the mother and the puppies, so be absolutely sure to ask to see their living conditions. The parents should be AKC registered, so you should ask for registration. But AKC registration does not mean that the dog is high-quality. Every German Shepherd can be registered — even those with no health testing. Preferably, you should have owned at least one dog before. It is recommended that you have some experience with more active dogs, as well. These dogs are quite active and tend to be high-energy. Without the appropriate amount of exercise, they can easily become destructive. In fact, most of the destructive behavior associated with a German Shepherd is due to a lack of stimulation. German Shepherds require extensive training as well, so it is best if they have a handler that has previously trained dogs. They will take up a few hours a day as puppies and require as much as an hour or two of exercise alone. Many of these canines are more expensive than their black-and-tan counterparts. However, they have won the hearts of many pet owners. It will often take you a little bit before you locate a completely black puppy, so be prepared to sit on a few waiting lists. Despite their unusual colorations, these dogs are very similar to all other German Shepherds. They have the same temperament and work great as guard dogs. You have to prepare to train and socialize them properly. They require quite a bit more work than other breeds, but it is absolutely worth it in the end. We recommend these dogs for serious dog owners who have previously owned dogs. German Shepherds are not for the casual dog owner. They need someone who can commit to their training and activity needs. 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. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. 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