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One look and an instant calm will probably wash over you. Stress simply melts away. Because Golden Retrievers are notoriously loyal and obedient. They can look silly with their big goofy grins. Or they can look stoic and wise beyond their years with their striking, deep brown eyes. CutenessOverload Everything they do is adorable Just watching your pup go from an adorable average of 10 pounds right when you get them at 8 weeks old to a sizable 70 pounds at the year mark is cuter than anything you can imagine. Or falling asleep in your lap. Or busting your pup discreetly chewing on your brand new pair of sneakers in their new closet lair is the cutest. There are too many cute things! Everything will be adorable and glee-inducing if done by a Golden Retriever pup — even the behaviors that, by all logic, should annoy you to no end. This is a good thing because a puppy this adorable is definitely going to be a popular one. Golden Retriever puppies make friends with kids , adults, and other animals while keeping their trademark smiles on their faces. They are so friendly, in fact, that they may not be the best bet when looking for guard dogs. A Golden will usually greet any stranger, including during a break-in, with a welcoming smile on their face. But they will love you best Again, the loyalty of a Golden Retriever pup cannot be stressed enough; it is strong. At the end of the day, your athletic, big-pawed, adventurous, silly, and loving Golden pup will only have eyes for you. Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue. They're one of the most popular dog breeds in America, and there's no surprise why. Besides being smart, active dogs, they're also gorgeous and oh so photogenic. It's no wonder goldens are some of the biggest pet influencers filling our feeds! Gus He's a runner, he's a track star! No seriously, Gus crushes the competition in agility courses. He especially loves dock diving and has even earned his Dock Elite title. What a good boy. Hinckley Parks It seriously can't get any cuter than this. Hinckley Parks' baby brother Teddy loves to snuggle in all his soft golden fur, and we can't blame him. It's no wonder golden retrievers are one of the best family pets in America: they're great with kids! But this one with Jaxson and Sawyer actually turned out adorable! The only thing that seems to be missing from the party are some birthday treats.Margo Who doesn't love splashing around in the water on a hot summer day? Swimming is one of the best ways for dogs to get exercise, and golden retrievers are natural at it. Plus, Margo's coat is absolutely glowing in the sunshine—how photogenic! Maggie Maggie's glasses make her look to be one smart cookie—because she probably is! Golden retrievers are one of the smartest dog breeds. She's serving sophistication, and we're here for it. Arrowood Family What's better than a golden? Five goldens! Sage, Waverly, Tori, Jimmie, and baby Presley are the definition of family goals. I mean, how often can you get five pups to look at the camera? Thor As long as the camera's off, the boss won't suspect a thing, right? After watching us all struggle through WFH life for a year, our dogs are sure going to miss us when we return to the office. Or maybe they'll be like Thor the golden retriever and replace us altogether. Louie Talk about lifegoals! Nothing feels better than a car ride with the windows down and the wind blowing through your hair fur. Krembo Uh, hello, tongue! Krembo's letting it all hang out and we can't blame him. If only we could reach through the screen and boop that nose. And also have us craving some snacks. We could all use a little frolic through a flower field some days, but we'll have to live vicariously through Lola for now. Henry Golden retrievers make wonderful service animals , and Henry proves that they can look good while doing so. He deserves all the pets in the world—but only once he's off the clock. Drake Cue the "awwwws" because this is one of the cutest dogs we've ever seen. His smile tells us all we need to know: he's definitely one of the happiest golden retrievers in the world. Was this page helpful? I've photographed many families along with their beloved dog, often a Golden. I've had numerous Golden Retrievers in my training classes over the years, whether they be reds, English Cremes or the beautiful blonde that we so typically think of when we think of a Golden Retriever. Goldens hail from Scotland originally and are known as a hard-working breed, often employed as service animals and therapy dogs. They're also known for their voracious appetites, young-at-heart personalities and their penchant for carrying things in their mouths particularly when excited. Goldens are intelligent, athletic dogs, and are exceptional competitors in dog sports like obedience, agility, dock diving and more. Golden Retrievers gorgeous coats and perennially smiling face make them a dream to photograph, especially during their little butterball puppy stage. When Moana's that's "mow-ah-nah" dog mom contacted me for cute little puppy pics, of course I said "Yes" right after I squealed with delight and we quickly secured a session on the calendar before she got any bigger! The sun was shining, the flowers were in bloom and Moana romped and played and we caught it all. At the viewing and ordering appointment, Brenda had a hard time narrowing down her favorites because Moana's just that cute, but we eventually got there. She decided on ordering two plush blankets one for her and one for Moana's bed along with a digital negative package which is presented in a handmade reclaimed barn wood box with a metal print on the cover and a 5x7 print of each image inside along with a USB drive with all the high resolution digital image files. Doggy Daddy: Tucker I was recently contacted by the Creed family to take their family portraits and they requested that I take a few pet portraits of their very special family member, Tucker. It was only later when Moana's mom shared her Christmas mini session photo of Moana with them see below , that the Creeds asked if those were taken by Penny Whistle Photography. Brenda contacted me afterward to say "You just photographed Moana's daddy". Small world indeed and now I know where Moana gets her good looks! Tracy Allard of Penny Whistle Photography is a Certified Professional Photographer with the organization Professional Photographers of America; a designation held by fewer than 2, photographers nationwide and a hallmark of consistency, technical skill, artistry and professionalism. Tracy offers special services to local Dallas - Fort Worth dog and cat breeders, creating unique images for their websites, social media and marketing purposes. Contact her to find out more about this offering.

Breeds The link has been copied! The German Shepherd has long been prized for its working ability. Police, military, search-and-rescue teams, and families alike have loved and used this intelligent and obedient dog for a variety of tasks. And the Border Collie is known as the smartest dog breed in the world. What happens when you put these two dogs together? Shollie Shepherd x Border Collie Main Characteristics As a cross between two intelligent working dogs, you can expect the Shollie to be a smart, energetic pup. These dogs are great for active families where they have space to run and receive adequate exercise each day. Their size can vary since German Shepherds tend to be larger than Border Collies. However, Shollies usually stand between 20 and 24 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 70 and 90 pounds. Both parent breeds come in a few different colors and Shollies can have quite a variety of color patterns. However, one thing is for sure. They will have a thick double coat that sheds twice a year — six months in the Spring and six months in the Fall. History of the Shollie The idea that crossbred dogs are inferior to purebred dogs has been waning in recent years. In fact, the popularity of designer dog breeds, the hybrid cross of two purebred dog breeds, has been spiking rapidly. One of the most well-known designer dog breeds is the Labradoodle. This Labrador Retriever Poodle mix set off the whole Doodle dog craze of crossing all sorts of dog breeds with Poodles to create more hypoallergenic versions of dogs. That and the fact that the crosses end up looking somewhat like adorable teddy bears have made these crossbred dogs extremely popular. It is unclear who decided that crossing a Border Collie with a German Shepherd would be a good idea or why. But the resulting hybrid has been making a splash in the dog community. What Does a Shollie Look Like? Border Collies are usually black and white and German Shepherds can come in a wide variety of colors though they are commonly black and brown. The Shollie can have black, brown, fawn, sable, or white hair and are almost always a mix of at least two colors. Many have an intriguing mottled pattern. Their bodies tend to be lean and athletic and they are fairly large dogs. Despite their size, they are gentle and loving and tend to be good with kids. Most Shollies have brown eyes, though they can also be hazel, blue, or amber. They usually have black noses with long muzzles. Exercise Needs Both parent breeds were bred as working dogs and needed energy and stamina for this purpose. This makes the Shollie an active dog that requires at least one hour of vigorous exercise per day. They will love having a large yard where they can run freely. If this is not available, access to an off-leash dog park would be ideal. As intelligent dogs, they love exploring new areas. They will adore accompanying you and your family on hiking adventures or participating in agility classes or other canine sports. Border Collies top the charts of Obedience and Working Intelligence. This measure looks at both how many repetitions the dog requires to learn a technique as well as how likely they are to obey a known technique. The higher their score, obviously the more trainable they are. German Shepherds are well known for their trainability. Though there is always some unpredictability with crossbred dogs, you can bet a child of these two breeds will be easy to train. Since both parent breeds are super intelligent with an eager-to-please attitude, the resulting hybrid ends up the same. But owning an intelligent dog comes with a responsibility. They need a job to do or some other form of mental stimulation. Otherwise, they will find something to entertain themselves in their boredom — which may spell disaster for your furniture! Luckily, they enjoy mental stimulation in various forms. Learning new tricks, participating in agility or canine sports, puzzle toys , playing with your kids, and even exploring areas of your large backyard count. If you have to leave them alone for a long period of time, leave them with a puzzle game or toy. This will help give them something to do and keep their mischievous streak at bay until your return. All in all, the Shollie is a fantastic dog when it comes to training and obedience. Are Shollies Independent? Some dogs are content to sit at home awaiting your return from a long day at work. The Shollie is not one of them. They are loving, sociable animals who will give you their whole heart. In exchange, they expect a certain amount of love and affection. It only makes sense, right? If you live alone and work outside the home all day, a Shollie may not be a good choice for your companion. They can become anxious or depressed and this will often come out as bad behavior like digging or chewing up shoes. On the flip side, Shollies are wonderful for families. They love playing with little children and will adore living in a household where there is almost always someone around to offer them an ear scratch. After a long day working or playing, they love nothing more than to cuddle with you on the couch or at least curl up at your feet while you relax in the evenings. They can get a little protective of their families especially their little people. If they feel threatened at all, they may display territorial behavior — even if that means protecting their little charges from Grandma! German Shepherd Surprisingly, there is one man and one dog to thank for the development of the German Shepherd breed. Max Emil Freidrich von Stephanitz dreamed of becoming a gentleman farmer. However, he was pressured by his affluent family into joining the military instead. During his time as a cavalry officer in the German countryside in the midth century, the incredible sheep herding dogs caught his eye. He was impressed by their intelligence and responsiveness and distressed by their dwindling numbers. As modernity approached, the need for sheepherding dogs was waning, but Von Stephanitz decided to do something about it. Thus, he bought a large estate near Grafath in Bavaria and set out to find the right dogs to create his formal breed. The right dog turned out to be one dog that he bought at a dog show in April of .The four-year-old dog, Hektor Linksrhein, had a wolf-like appearance and demonstrated superior intelligence and depth of character. Von Stephanitz renamed the dog Horand von Grafrath and used him to sire innumerable pups. Virtually every German Shepherd living today can be traced back to this dog. And von Stephanitz did things right. He bred carefully, looking to cultivate both beauty and brains in a time when they were mostly concerned with brains. His quest ultimately created a dog that is handsome, intelligent, obedient, and loyal. Not to mention both loving and easy to love. This medium-sized dog is descended from the old Roman sheepherding dogs and the Spitz-type herders of the Vikings. They routinely performed well in informal competitions among sheepherders back in the s. Eventually, official sheepdog competitions started running in the late s and early s. Border Collies have consistently dominated these competitions over the years. These dogs are energetic and capable of holding their own for over 50 miles in a day. Their rough, shaggy coats protected them from the elements when they spent days on end outdoors with their charges. Even the white markings on their coats serve the purpose of making it easier to spot them in the dark. As they grew in popularity, they began being exported from Great Britain all over the world to people who were looking for good working dogs. But in America, they caught the eye of obedience exhibitors. In , the North American Sheepdog Society was formed with the purpose to promote and protect the breed. Overall, the Border Collie has impressed generations of farmers with their smarts, energy, and willingness to please. Should I Get a Shollie? Now that you know a little bit about Shollies and their parent breeds, your interest may be piqued. However, as with every dog, they require the right type of home and living conditions to be happy. Here are a few things to ask yourself to help determine if your home is the right environment for a Shollie. Do You Have an Active Lifestyle? Shollies like to snuggle with you while you watch TV, but only after a long day of hard work or play. Remember, both parent breeds were developed as working dogs that needed enough energy to traverse dozens of miles in a day. Thus, Shollies require at least an hour of vigorous exercise each day. They need lots of active time and attention. Thus, a home with a large yard or a farm is a more adequate home for these pups. And they will love spending time with people who are active and on the move. The nice thing about adding a dog like this to the family is that they help encourage being active! Fi smart dog collars make it easier than ever. Shollies are very sociable, which means they want to spend time with their families. Are You Committed To Training? You still need to spend time with your Shollie teaching them what is expected of them and how they are to behave. But beyond the basics, you should continue to spend time training your Shollie. They love the mental stimulation of learning new tricks and they are so smart that they are the perfect dog for this. Do You Have Allergies or Asthma? This is a big one as Shollies have a lot of hair. If you or someone in your home has allergies or asthma, this could be a big problem. Both parent breeds have a double coat, which means there is a soft undercoat for warmth and a longer protective coat over the top. Translation — the dog has a lot of hair and they will constantly be shedding it. You can control their shedding somewhat with regular grooming sessions. But you will never get it all. Are Shollies Aggressive? Shollies are a little reticent of strangers. They love their families and can be a little protective if the occasion calls for it. However, they are not aggressive or violent by nature. The Verdict on Shollies So, is a Shollie right for your family? If you are an active family, have a large yard, and are willing to spend time training and stimulating your dog, the Shollie will make a fantastic companion for your family. If you live alone in a little apartment and spend most of your time at work, a different type of dog may be a better fit for your lifestyle. For additional pet-parenting tips, head over to TryFi. And don't forget to check out TryFi's innovative Fi Dog Collar , which offers GPS tracking, activity monitoring, and escape alerts to keep your furry friend safe. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. To create this hybrid, the parents must be one purebred Border Collie and one purebred German Shepherd. Both of these breeds are certified by the American Kennel Club so breeders should be able to provide paperwork for both parents. This energetic, intelligent, loving breed is becoming very popular with people who want a solid working dog or a loyal companion. As they are crossbreed, the characteristics they inherit from each parent will be different in each puppy. The overall appearance of this breed tends to lean more towards the German Shepherd parent. With their muscular large bodies, they are often mistaken for purebred German Shepherds. Their floppy ears and Collie tail will give them away as crossbreeds. Although a Shepherd is their most common appearance, each puppy will inevitably be different in appearance. No matter how they look, these dogs will have strong muscles and high levels of stamina, great for herding cattle. Fully grown, they should be around 21 to 27 inches tall and weigh around 70 to 80 lbs. If they lean more towards the Collie parent, they may be shorter and weigh less as Collies generally only weigh around 40 lbs. Colors Their coat will probably be a solid tan color with black patching and points. Coat They will have a straight, dense, medium-length coat, as both parents do. If they take after their German Shepherd parent, it will be a double coat. This means that it will be noticeably thicker especially in the winter months. If they are working dogs, this double coat will be great for working in cold weather. The best way to make an educated guess about their temperament is to look at their parent breeds. Highly energetic and extremely intelligent, these dogs are very eager to learn. Despite this, German Shepherds are not naturally aggressive and are actually very loving dogs that are loyal to their families. It is true that this loyalty can lead to them being protective and so they will often bark at anything strange in their territory. Border Collie Temperament A Collie was also bred as a herding dog and is one of the most common dogs used by farmers in the United Kingdom to manage their flocks and herds. Like GSDs, Collies are also energetic and very intelligent; ranked number one across all dog breeds. The downside is that they always need something to do otherwise they get bored very quickly. They are more playful than the German Shepherd but may have more issues with separation anxiety. With both these breeds in mind, we can definitely say that this hybrid is well above average in energy and intelligence. They make fantastic working dogs as this provides them with a job to do and plenty to keep their mind active. They will want to be with someone most of the time. Leaving an energetic and intelligent dog alone is a recipe for destructive behaviour such as chewing on furniture and barking. If you do just want this dog as a companion animal, be prepared for lots of exercise, playtime, and training sessions. These dogs can be protective so plenty of socialization from an early age will help. Lots of different people coming in and out of their space is very important. This will reduce the likelihood of them becoming defensive to new people. If they are the only dog in the house, be sure to socialize them with lots of other dogs to prevent guarding behavior over you and your family. Both parent breeds are comfortable around other animals, especially livestock or cats. They can live happily with other dogs and having a doggy friend may help keep them entertained. This mix is a great family dog as long as it was socialized with its family from a young age and not left alone with young children. All family members should be consistent with training to prevent the dog from receiving mixed messages and diluting the effect of training. As with all dogs, it would be unwise to leave young children alone with them. This breed is usually a food-focused dog which makes it easy to train with treats. Some mixes may also respond to toy-focused training which would be great if your dog is going to be a working dog or even train in agility or obedience. They will require a lot of socialization with people to reduce any guarding behaviors and aloofness. Naturally, this breed is not an aggressive breed but it is always good to socialize a puppy with other puppies to teach them canine manners. The Border Collie Shepherd Mix should be easy and enjoyable to train because they are so intelligent. If they are companion animals, you should definitely look into interactive feeders, plenty of toys for chewing and other games. For games which will stimulate your mix, fetch will be an important one. They need exercising for at least two hours a day, time in the garden, playtime, and other forms of mental stimulation. If they are working dogs they may get most of this on the job but as a companion animals, they will need this provided in other forms. Grooming should be completed a minimum of two times a week; especially if they have a double coat from their Shepherd parent. They should also have all the normal care that a dog requires: Ears cleaned Claws cut Treatment for fleas and worms Checked for ticks especially if they are out in fields or long grass on a regular basis Someone best suited to owning this breed is either at home most of the day or works with this dog. These mixed breed dogs are a very high-energy hybrid. This means a fenced-in backyard is a must so they can go out when they please and work off some energy. These dogs are not suited to living in apartments or houses without gardens. If they are working as a herding dogs, they will be able to run off a lot of that energy doing their job. If they are a guard dog or companion animal, they will need to be out of the house exercising for at least two hours a day. You should walk your dog a minimum of twice a day for at least one hour each time. These dogs are great off-leash as they are highly intelligent and should master recall pretty quickly. It means they can run off steam while running circles around you. Agility classes are also an excellent way of burning off steam and excellent as a form of mental stimulation, especially for this breed as they have a great body type for agility work. Grooming and Shedding If your dog does have a double coat, you can expect seasonal shedding. This is where they shed loads of fur twice a year in the Spring and Fall to make room for the new coat growth. Even if the coat is not double, these dogs will still shed quite a bit throughout the year and so will need brushing a minimum of twice a week. With lots of treats and positive reinforcement, grooming should be a good bonding time for you and your pup. You should take your dog to be professionally groomed a few times a year, especially around shedding season if they have that double coat. This will help prevent matting and keep their coat super healthy. Feeding and Diet The Border Collie German Shepherd Mix, when fully grown, should be fed one and a half cups of good quality dry food twice a day. This can also have wet food mixed in with it. Good quality dry food will have a very high percentage of protein. Things to avoid in dry dog food are any type of food dye, rendered fats, and corn or wheat gluten. People with working dogs often swear by a raw food diet. This is where the diet is made up of unprocessed meats, bones, fruit and vegetables, some dairy, and eggs. Known Health Problems All dogs are prone to certain health conditions and age-related issues. With little planning ahead you could get reimbursed for every vet bill from now on! Is The Shollie For You? The special thing about these dogs is their spectacular looks, more similar to a purebred than to a designer breed. They have aspects of a German Shepherd, with beautiful coats, large and athletic bodies, and expressive eyes. The only things that betray them are the less hairy tail and the floppy ears, both inherited from the Border Collie. Most of these dogs have a tan colored coat, but you can also find black and, in some rare cases, white Shollies. Of course, that thick, long coat will need regular brushing to avoid tangles and poor skin health. The German Shepherd is a highly active breed, developed for work and activity which means they require regular physical exercise. Thus, the combination of these two breeds results in an explosion of high energy! As an owner, you need to make sure your Shollie gets the activity and physical exercise she requires. Just take a look at these beautiful dogs and how they enjoy themselves playing: And the best way to do that would be to adapt an active lifestyle yourself no, this dog is not suitable for couch potatoes like you, Josh. While being playful, Shollies also do quite well on their own, so you can leave them alone at home for short intervals without worrying about them destroying furniture or getting too lonely. So, what activities can you give a Shepherd Collie mix to keep her happy and healthy? Something as simple as giving your dog some fresh air at regular intervals throughout the day should be more than enough to keep him satisfied. How often exactly? According to doctors of veterinary medicine like Amy Moore and Charlotte Cummings, a Shollie requires at least 2 walks every day or a minimum of 2 hours of activity on the daily. Both the German Shepherd and the Border Collie are known for their affectionate nature. A Shepherd Collie loves playing with her owners and will often eagerly await the next time you pick up the ball for a fun round of fetch. Despite being naturally loving and sweet towards their owners, however, the Shollie can manifest a wary side. How can you prevent this type of behavior in your Shollie? Exposing your pup to crowded, high activity environments early on. But it will make them more capable of controlling their impulses when a guest or visitor walks into your home. Police and military forces all over the world commonly use the aid of German Shepherds for a variety of tasks that would otherwise be impossible for people to perform! Sniffing out bombs, illegal substances, and other security threats are just some of the nifty tricks that German Shepherds can be taught. Border Collies, on the other hand, are known to be some of the smartest and most trainable dogs around. This breed quickly takes a number of tasks and jobs with simple repetition. With this type of lineage, you should know that the Shepherd Collie is just as smart. This dog breed loves mental exercise and will often look for something to stimulate her ever active mind. So as her owner, you should be ready with a few cognitive puzzles, games, and tasks that will help give your dog the mental exercise that she needs. For instance, before taking him out for your next walk, think about the place you plan to visit. Instead of going for the typical trail you always follow, consider other areas with more varied smells, sounds, and sights. Something as simple as exposing your dog to new sensory experiences can give them that well-deserved dose of cognitive training. What about dogs that are frequently left at home? As much as possible, I advise you bring your dog along with you when you run errands or go out because this can also give him a chance to stretch his mental muscles. Just hide the kibble in areas of your house where your dog is free to explore, and it will keep your Shollie thoroughly entertained for hours on end. So, how do you go about teaching your Collie Shepherd Mix to alert you in case of an intruder or threat? The first step would be to teach them to stop barking on command. Once your Collie Shepherd perfects this, you can then start teaching her when barking would be acceptable behavior by simulating an intruder or threat. Ultimately, what you want to teach your dog is the ability to discern between harmless guests and potential intruders by showing them the way that threats would behave. So your Shollie should know not to bark or alert you in these instances. Watch this video for more advanced tactics on stopping people aggression in dogs. Some dogs are more predisposed to certain health problems just because of their build and lineage. Responsibly bred Shepherd Collie Mixes will live up to 15 years of healthy life with little to no incidences of disease or illness! Of course, the parent breeds do have their own health problem predispositions that can be passed on to the mix. For instance, German Shepherds are notoriously prone to hip dysplasia. Border Collies, on the other hand, are known to be commonly afflicted with epilepsy. What a Shollie really needs is an owner who can keep up with their high energy, their wit, and their affectionate nature. About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. Applies to all dog food recalls in the U. Adopting an older dog will decrease the price tag. Lancaster Puppies in Columbus, OH. Owners will have a lot on their hands when grooming this hybrid dog. It is a heavy shedder, making it hard for owners to clean up while trying to keep their coat healthy. The German Shepherd Border Collie mix sheds more often as it grows old, so owners must brush its fur daily to remove dander and dead hair. Here are some of the most recommended grooming equipment to maintain the coat of the German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie: Slicker Brush Slicker brushes are great combs to remove tangles and mats on long-haired dogs. The slicker brush can save owners time when brushing the coat of the German Shepherd Border Collie compared to regular combs. Detanglers Before using a slicker brush, owners will notice that the Border Collie German Shepherd mix has a lot of tangled hair. Dematting sprays can relax and soften the hair to make it easier for owners to untangle the knots. Owners must resort to this solution if the tangles are hard to remove despite the use of detanglers as dogs are not fond of sharp objects. Owners must avoid buying shampoo based on the odor or the low price. Owners must be aware of its coat type and skin to help them find oils and specialty ingredients that will be beneficial for the Border Collie mixed with German Shepherd. Grooming Wipes The German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie is an energetic dog that will be dirty when it finishes playing outside the house. Wet wipes are essential for dog owners that want to prevent mud and grass inside their residence. Microfiber Towel Human towels do not absorb all of the water on a dog. Because of its heavy coat, the German Shepherd Border Collie mix will likely be dripping wet despite a heavy rinsing. Microfiber towels can help remove water on a Border Collie German Shepherd cross better than human towels. The legs and hips of Border Collie German Shepherd will deteriorate as it ages. The hybrid dog will experience problems at an earlier rate depending on its activities as well. It may also be born deaf if one of its parent breeds already have hearing problems. Epilepsy The Border Collie breed is widely known for its tendency to suffer from epilepsy more than other dog breeds. The Border Collie German Shepherd mix may inherit this health problem as well. Epilepsy happens when the dog is experiencing episodic seizures. Fortunately, it is a rare disease among dogs. Degenerative Myelopathy When owners notice that the Border Collie German Shepherd mix is starting to walk funny on its back legs, it can be a symptom of Degenerative Myelopathy. This disease currently has no cure. Irresponsible breeders are the most likely reasons for the health issues of a German Shepherd mixed with a Border Collie. Owners must make sure that they are adopting a healthy puppy from a reputable breeder to avoid dealing with a sickly puppy. If the hybrid dog is exhausted from more training than usual, owners can go for 4 cups a day. Bloat and diabetes are two main health problems that can affect a Border Collie crossed with a German Shepherd as both parent breeds may also suffer from them. It is essential for owners to avoid overfeeding this hybrid dog and prevent nutritional imbalances. In such scenarios, products such as Nutra Thrive dog food supplement can be a solution to regain the proper balance of nutrients. Dog owners and lovers must also keep in mind that they need to seek food for the best large breed dry dog food instead of best dry dog food for small dogs. Whatever you do, make sure you steer clear from the worst dry dog food. Try to learn more about the difference between poor-quality and premium-quality chows by checking our best dry dog food guide! The dog food must include joint supplements because large dog breeds are prone to hip dysplasia and other joint ailments. To avoid this, give them kibble that is rich in calcium since puppyhood. Pooches that have entered their golden years will maintain their health properly only if given the right amount of the best senior dry dog food! Dog food must also contain a moderate amount of calories to avoid obesity, which is a common problem among large breeds. The dog food chosen by owners must also have large kibble to avoid letting the dog eat too quickly, which may result in life-threatening conditions like bloat. Here are a few of the most recommended large breed dog food in the US: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula The Blue Buffalo Life dog food is perfect for the German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie because it is full of ingredients rich in antioxidants like kelp, blueberries, sweet potatoes, and carrots. Deboned chicken is also its main ingredient. This brand does not have wheat, soy, or corn. Wellness Core Dog Food The nutritious proteins included in the Wellness Complete Health dog food for large breeds is beneficial for the German Shepherd crossed with Border Collie because it has all the nutrition it needs. This brand contains deboned chicken, salmon meal, and deboned whitefish, which gives the dog food a delicious flavor. It also includes flaxseed, which is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. It also provides for different probiotics for the German Shepherd Border Collie mix. Dog for Dog contains vitamins and minerals to give your Border Collie mixed with German Shepherd the nutrition it needs. This whole-grain brand also contains glucosamine, which helps keep joints healthy. Owners on a budget will find this product affordable. It also helps prevent nutrient deficiency with its vitamins and minerals. The brand also comes with glucosamine and chondroitin, which is good for joint health. Eagle Pack Natural consists only of natural ingredients with no artificial colors and preservatives. It also includes eight probiotic strains to keep the hybrid dog healthy. Pro Plan Focus Weight Management Large Breed This brand is beneficial for large dogs because it can supply them with many complex carbohydrates to sustain their energy levels. It is also helpful for the joint because of it contains glucosamine. This brand attacks specific health issues like joint problems or bloating that a German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie may cross. This brand contains joint supplements, probiotic supplements, and fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants. It is a natural and grain-free product with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It contains antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits, as well as premium proteins. This brand is a grain-free product that will give your hybrid dog enough nutrition for its daily activities and exercises. There are a plethora of good choices for them out there, but make sure to find some of the best dry dog food , for example, Wellness Core Dog Food , Dog For Dog Food , or Nutra Thrive dog food supplement. Puppies and senior dogs have different food requirements, so go through the best puppy food brands in case you own a little munchkin and best senior dry dog food for grandpa and grandma pups. A checkup with your vet will help you opt for some of these. Both of its parent breeds are also very active. This hybrid dog does not do well indoors and needs to have a lot of time running and playing with its owners. An owner of a German Shepherd crossed with Border Collie must commit their time to engage this dog in activities if they want to avoid it from becoming bored and destructive. This dog will become aggressive and timid if it does not participate in mental and physical activities. Its daily exercise requires about 60 minutes of running and playing outside of the house. If you happen to raise a Border Collie German Shepherd mix as a calm and independent dog, 2 hours of separate walks daily can keep it satisfied. Where did the German Shepherd Border Collie mix come from? So their history is the combined history of those two breeds! Based on their heritage, it may be assumed that the hybrid was the result of a desire for the ultimate large dog. One that has athletic ability, agility and a protective yet playful nature. There, early Collies were bred to do much the same thing that they do today. Herd and protect livestock. Sheepdogs such as the Border Collie have been in existence for centuries. Modern Border Collies are still excellent working dogs, especially on ranches. Formed to create the ultimate herding or guide dog. In a climate where working outside often meant braving cold weather and damp conditions, the Shepherd dog had to be tough. The GSD eventually became a refined herding breed known for its stamina and work ethic. The AKC formally recognized the breed in .Later, Shepherds became associated with military, police, and service work. All sectors in which you can find them working in today. Nor what color or length their coats will be. Along with the standard colors that are associated with the parent breeds. Adding another level of possibility is the fact that hybrids may look like a mix of their parents. Height and Weight The German Shepherd and Collie mix has the potential to be a medium or large-sized dog. If the pup takes after its GSD parent, then it may mature to somewhere between 80 and 90 pounds. If she takes after her Border Collie parent, then she may only get to about 40 pounds or so. Most pups will fall somewhere in between. You can expect German Shepherd Collie crosses to reach roughly inches at the shoulder. This is a soft undercoat is below a rough top coat. Or it may come out somewhere in between! No matter which parent it resembles more, a Shollie will require weekly brushing. These needs will increase when seasonal shedding occurs. This is a high shedding dog, that will leave fur and dander around your home. They are unfortunately not suitable pets for a home with human dog allergy sufferers. Bringing a hybrid dog into your home, especially a large one such as the German Shepherd x Border Collie? Are German Shepherd Mixes Aggressive? German Shepherds are often found in the police and military sectors. This line of work has made the breed a bit notorious for being aggressive, and unfairly so. German Shepherds should not all be viewed as aggressive dogs. Police and military dogs are highly trained and intelligent animals. Border Collie German Shepherd mixes are naturally very inquisitive dogs. They do not enjoy sitting without a job to do or a game to play. This can sometimes result in destructive behavior. Especially if a Collie is kept cooped up and without toys or other enrichment activities. With all of this in mind, it is likely that a German Shepherd Collie mix will need to be kept as a working or sporting dog. Unless you will be able to exercise him frequently and provide him with things to keep his busy brain focused. Although a hybrid puppy may be an equal mix of its purebred parents. There is also the possibility that the puppy will take after one parent more so than the other. German Shepherd and Border Collie Health Any type of dog, purebred or hybrid, may be afflicted with inherited or age-related health conditions. Such as hip or elbow dysplasia, eye diseases, allergies, and skin irritations. German Shepherd and Border Collie mixes, however, are particularly prone to the conditions that their parent breeds often develop. One thing to note is that both German Shepherds and Border Collies are both prone to hip dysplasia. So Shollies may be especially at risk of developing this condition. This can help to determine what health problems their offspring may be afflicted with. Additionally, be sure that the breeding stock have good hip scores. Shollies can make great family pets for active homes that are interested in positive reinforcement training. For starters, Shollies are medium- to large-sized working dogs that have pretty high exercise requirements. Weight gain is especially concerning for this hybrid, as it is prone to developing hip dysplasia. They need to have something to occupy their intelligent minds, or they may turn your home into a giant chew toy! Border Collie German Shepherd Mix Puppies There are a lot of factors to consider when deciding whether to bring a Shollie puppy into your home. Absolutely not! If you get a Shollie puppy, their naturally intelligent and highly trainable nature means that you can socialize it to other animals and people. Make sure you meet both parents and are happy with their temperaments and health tests carried out by the breeder. Socialize your pup thoroughly and you could end up with a wonderful companion for many years to come. German shepherds were initially bred in Germany in the 19th century and were officially recognized as a breed in .Border collies are primarily sheepdogs that were officially recognized in the British Isles in the 19th century. Both dog breeds are considered highly intelligent, trainable, and agile. This is why German shepherds have been widely adopted as working dogs and are often seen in military and police roles. Border collies frequently compete with great success in sheepdog trials and are considered among the top sporting dogs. Exactly when the Shollie emerged and precisely what breeders were trying to achieve with the new breed is unclear. But the result tends to be a relatively large and athletic dog that is highly intelligent and protective. Thanks to these traits, the Shollie makes an excellent family dog. It is important to remember that, unlike with purebred dogs, when you mix dog breeds, the results are always a bit unpredictable. Shollie Appearance You can expect Shollies to be fairly large dogs with a lean and athletic physique. According to the breed standard, German shepherds tend to measure 22 to 26 inches tall, with males generally an inch or two larger than females. Border collies are a bit smaller, measuring from 18 to 22 inches. Nevertheless, you will rarely see a Shollie that measures less than 20 inches. They typically weigh around 70 to 90 pounds. While these big dogs are gentle, their substantial size means they can misjudge their strength and could accidentally hurt children or older, more fragile individuals. Shollies can be almost any color combination of their parents, including black, brown, golden, and white, and they are almost always a mix of at least two different colors. They often have attractive mottled patterning. Border collies have a warm undercoat with a protective outer coat that tends to be longer and can be either smooth or shaggy. German shepherds also have a warm undercoat with a longer overcoat. You can expect a Shollie to have a similar double coat, probably with quite long hair. This puts them at a fairly high risk of overheating in hot temperatures. They also tend to shed a lot, and their hair can easily become matted if not brushed regularly to remove shedded hairs that have clung to their coat. Shollies look their best when they receive daily brushing. Most Shollies will have brown eyes and a face with a fairly long muzzle. They can either have the pointed ears of a German shepherd or the floppy ears of a border collie. Shollie Temperament: Athleticism Both German shepherds and border collies are working dogs bred for herding, so they are bred to be active. You can expect their Shollie offspring to have a lot of energy and need quite a bit of exercise. Shollies need a minimum of one hour of exercise per day, preferably split into two or three shorter sessions throughout the day. They will appreciate being taken to off-leash dog parks where they can run around without being restricted by the leash. In addition to this, these dogs will love to accompany their family on outdoor adventures, such as hiking trips and walks. They are agile and intelligent and will be able to look after themselves on hiking trails. Shollie Temperament: Trainability Both border collies and German shepherds are highly intelligent, and their offspring tend to inherit this characteristic. They learn quickly and are highly adaptable. Shollies can generally figure out what is needed from them quickly in new situations. Bred as training dogs, Shollies also tend to be easy to please. More independent and stubborn breeds might know what you want but still not give it to you; this is not the case with the Shollie. They can easily become bored if they do not have tasks to keep them occupied. This is why it is always a good idea to teach them tasks, even if they will be living as a family pet. They will also benefit from complex toys like puzzle games to keep them occupied when left alone. If they are left alone for too long without something to stimulate their brain, they may just find their own entertainment. This tends to be the destructive sort of chewing and digging. Shollie Temperament: Independence Shollies tend to want to be part of the family. They will quickly bond with the people they spend a lot of time with and become protective of them. They will often be on alert when other people or animals approach and can display territorial behavior if they feel threatened. They tend to have an affinity for children and enjoy playing with them, though they should always be supervised around small children. Threats to their little people, in particular, can bring out their protective instinct. Are you worried your dog is overly possessive? Watch out for these important signs. These dogs have a tendency to become anxious or depressed if they are left alone for long periods of time. They are not the type of dog you can leave alone at home for several hours while you are at work. Considering a day care service for your dog? Read our tips for choosing the best day care for your dog. When you are at home, be prepared for plenty of love and affection from your Shollie. These dogs will love to be close to you, whether that means sitting at your feet or snuggling up with you on the couch if you let them. They can live anywhere from 13 to 15 years, which is an impressive lifespan for such a large dog. But, as is the case with many large dogs, they can also suffer from joint issues, in particular hip and elbow dysplasia, which is when the joint socket becomes malformed. The best way to avoid this problem is with a healthy diet and plenty of exercise. Ensuring that their calorie intake matches their energy output is key. Overall, Shollies are among some of the healthiest dogs that you will come across. Should I Get A Shollie? Whether or not a Shollie is the right dog for you depends on a variety of different factors. Consider the following questions when determining whether or not to adopt this crossbreed. Where Do You Live? They will do better in a place with a large backyard where they can keep themselves occupied. Shollies need a lot of exercise. They need a minimum of one hour of exercise each day, preferably spread out over a number of short sessions throughout the day. Do you have the energy to walk your dog every day? Shollies are very social animals, and they can become depressed and anxious if they are forced to spend a lot of time on their own. Is there generally someone at home at your place, or is the house empty for several hours at a time when everyone goes to work? Will your dog get the companionship that they need in your house? If not, be prepared for lots of destructive behavior when your Shollie is left alone. Are You Committed To Training? Luckily, Shollies are intelligent and eager to learn, which means even new dog owners should be able to train them fairly easily. But Shollies are also working dogs, and they often need the mental stimulation of having a task to do to keep them occupied. This means training them is not just about controlling their behavior; it is also about keeping them occupied. This is why it can be useful to teach your Shollie tricks. Is this something that you will be willing to do? If not, perhaps a smaller and more passive breed is better suited to your lifestyle. Do you live somewhere that is likely to be too hot for them? There is no escaping the fact that Shollies are shedders, and dealing with dog hair is a fact of life when you have one of these dogs. If you suffer from allergies or asthma, you might want to consider a different dog. Do you have someone who can take in your Shollie when you travel? Alternatively, do you have access to a large kennel that gives them plenty of room? Your dog will suffer if they need to stay in a small cage for a few weeks while you are away. Can You Afford A Shollie? Dog ownership, regardless of the breed you choose, can be surprisingly expensive. While you may already realize that the cost of their food will add up, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Yes, Shollies are excellent dogs, as they are intelligent and trainable pups with a friendly temperament. They are high-energy dogs that need lots of exercise, love, and affection, so they are a big commitment in terms of time, but otherwise they are relatively low maintenance. Are Shollies aggressive? Any dog that has been through traumatic situations can become aggressive. So, if you are adopting an older Shollie that may have come from a difficult home, speak to the adoption agency about any behavioral issues that they might have and how to properly handle them. How much is a Shollie puppy? How much a Shollie puppy costs will depend largely on where you get them from. You may be able to find a Shollie at a local shelter, in which case you may only need to cover the administrative costs of the service. Do Shollies bark a lot? They can be trained not to bark when it is not necessary, for example, when people pass your home. If your dog starts barking a lot for no apparent reason, it can be a sign that there is something wrong health-wise. Which is better, male or female Shollies? Whether you should get a male or female Shollie depends on your priorities. Females tend to be a bit smaller, and they are also more focused on tasks if you want a working dog. Males tend to be more easygoing and less likely to engage in excessively protective behavior. The Verdict On Shollies When you are a first-time dog owner, you are often told to steer clear of the more athletic dog breeds, as they tend to be a handful and need an experienced hand. But if you are looking for a pup to accompany you on all of your adventures, this can be disappointing. If the above sounds like you, then a Shollie, a border collie and German shepherd mix, might be the right pup for you! Shollies are very energetic and athletic dogs that will quickly become part of the family. You will probably want to take them with you on all of your weekend adventures. What you do need, however, is the time and space in your home to take on this boisterous new member of the family. 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. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist.

Of course, you have already read a lot of books with advice on how to choose the right puppy of a German Shepherd, east European, as well as a Newfoundland, Rottweiler, Spaniel, or Spitz puppy. You understand what is the fundamental difference between these breeds and why a Retriever puppy will never become a VIP bodyguard, and a black terrier will hardly ever pass for a draft husky. Why Opting For a German Shepherd Puppy Is a Good Choice The German Shepherd is prone to learning from a very young to deep old age, while many other breeds cannot boast of this, even if their appearance is more perfect than that of a German Shepherd. The most well-known characteristics that a German Shepherd owns are: pronounced protective and guarding instinct; the ability to make independent decisions, and active actions, and at the same time be completely submissive to the owner; sociability, playfulness, and curiosity; lack of aggression signs towards others and deep affection for the owner; a willingness to happily take on tasks, learn, and remain completely fearless when faced with unfamiliar surroundings or unforeseen difficulties; In addition, the Shepherd dog is calmly confident and features strong nerves, combativeness, and assertiveness which are the main qualities of a good service dog. Perhaps, due to this set of breed characteristics, few larger and more ferocious breeds can compete with a GS, both for guarding the house and as a personal protector. It is not recommended to take puppies under 4 weeks old from their mother. This applies not only to GSs but other breeds. At the age of one month, the baby has already been given all the necessary vaccinations. However, only a person who can devote a lot of time to raising a puppy can afford to take a Shepherd at such a young age. In addition to 6 meals a day, and socialization, the new owner will need to complete 1, different tasks, which require, above all, a lot of time. If there is no time, it is worth finding a puppy aged 4 to 6 months. And it is advisable to take such a teenager from a nursery that focuses on breeding German Shepherds and not all the breeds at once. It happens that a puppy stays in the nursery because the money deposit was given for it but, for some reason, people could not pick up the reserved puppy. If the grown-up German Shepherd puppy constantly lived in an aviary and was deprived of close contact with people and the outside world, owners who have not previously dealt with this breed should not choose such a youngster. These young dogs are for experienced cinologysts. Lack of socialization can be corrected but it cannot be fully eliminated. Testing for the Puppy and Its Future Owner You may already know how to choose a purebred German Shepherd by external signs under the age of 3 months. Simple tests will help you choose a puppy with the desired character. Visit the breeder at a predetermined time when the puppies do not sleep or, conversely, are not hungry. You are taking a future friend for life, and enthusiastic emotions with such a choice are inappropriate. When buying a new friend, inspect the litter meticulously. Pay attention to the following: eyes do not water; traces of diarrhea under the tails are not observed; wet noses are without purulent crusts; legs are straight and strong; fur is clean, reminding of the plush; on the skin under the coat, there are no signs of peeling and scabs; all puppies are active and well-fed; the body is elastic and strong to the touch; the puppy has a pleasant dog smell; the mother is not exhausted; bowls and bedding are clean; there is enough heat and light. Of course, the owner of the dog mother has already taken her to the next room. Those who paid attention to the unusual sound are yours. Throw carefully, of course a tennis ball at the puppies. Those who were not afraid and did not try to escape are yours. Those who, having scouted the situation, did not begin to whine , pressing themselves onto the floor, but hurried towards the bedding are yours. Pay attention to those who have shown interest in a new object. The best are those who took and dragged it. Keys and money are the dirtiest household items. This testing method was used 20 years ago. Today, it is dangerous for the health of puppies! Invite those who dragged the rubber duck to pull a piece of fabric. If the baby dog willingly starts the fight, not letting the cloth go when you pull it towards you, they are good boys or girls. Turn the puppy you like on its back and hold it with an open palm for a few seconds. A clear alpha leader is easy to identify by its non-calming behavior for seconds, and even trying to bite you in this position. It may not be your choice! You will get too many problems associated with the puppy, or it will never be possible to completely subdue it. The puppy that squealed, pulled back its paw, and did not lose its interest in you is yours. The one who barks trying to drive brothers and sisters away from the bowl is not for you. The one who gives up its place at the feeder is also not yours. Yours is the one who, regardless of the obstacles, has taken its place and calmly devours food, without moving from its point, snapping, and running around the bowl. Now, you have at best 2 or 3 puppies left in front of you. You need to select the fat-footed one who will try to get out through the opening without panic and squealing. The tests are simple, but they will allow you to select a good puppy and raise a real working German Shepherd from it without unnecessary costs and nerves. Talk to the breeder. Such puppies are sold at a more reasonable price, but the puppy card for them is mandatory to be filled out as well. If you are given puppies for free, in the absence of their mother, there is a reason to seriously consider whether it is a Shepherd dog at all, even if their mother has pedigree documents. This is not a dog of one owner! The versatility and flexibility of this breed are proven by the fact that GSs accept a new family and a new environment without any problems. The main thing for it is to have its own business — to serve a human! Of course, parting with the former owner seriously affects the condition of the dog, but it will not have a destructive effect on its psyche. And the sooner you engage the German Shepherd in work, the more chances you will have to become a new God for it. If the German Shepherd was properly brought up and grew up surrounded by people, it has working characteristics in good conditions, and the reputation of its previous owner is beyond all questions, such a dog will be quite useful to your family. Finding out the previous story and background of an adult GS why it is refused, what the complaints about its behavior are, and other prompting questions is a must! The reason may be the saddest and most trivial — the previous owner died, and relatives are not able to either support or care for the dog. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Do further research into these local German Shepherd breed clubs in your area. Whether you get information from their websites or contact them directly for help, local breed clubs are a great way to get the names of reputable breeders in your area. Veterinarians come into contact with a lot of different types of animal care-givers, from breeders to shelters to individual owners. Because they know so much about animal issues in the community, it's a good idea to talk to a few vets in your area for ethical breeder recommendations. Also consider speaking to other German Shepherd owners, dog groomers, or dog trainers. If you visit a breed show, talk to owners and trainers about who they've had good or bad experiences with. A good breeder won't have a variety of breeds available for adoption. Look for a breeder who specializes only in German Shepherds. Your best option is to find a breeder who has years of experience with the German Shepherd breed. They should be able to answer your questions about development, temperament, and training easily and without hesitation. A key marker of a good breeder is the amount of effort they put into early socialization. Puppies need to be taught from an early age to live harmoniously with humans. If a breeder keeps litters isolated away from the home, the puppies will not be used to the sights and sounds of a normal household, and won't be used to human interaction. This can become a problem by the time they are old enough to be adopted. Make sure the puppies spend at least some time in the breeders' home with them. The more time they spend with humans, the more you can trust the breeder. An ethical breeder will never try to breed a female who hasn't reached sexual maturity — about 2 years of age. Mothers should also be given enough time to recover from pregnancies and being separated from their litters as they get adopted. Females should be healthy and alert. Never adopt a puppy from a breeder who breeds a young or unhealthy female, or who doesn't give mothers time to recover before breeding them again. Puppies should never be sold or separated from their mothers before 8 weeks of age. The breeder should have begun the puppies' vaccination and deworming processes before adopting them out. Make sure that's happened, and ask about any health problems the vet may have reported in these early checkups. Ask if the breeders have their dogs tested for the Degenerative Myelopathy DM gene. This can determine whether a common inherited disease in German Shepherds is present in the litter's bloodline. Dogs with DM suffer from progressive paralysis, particularly in the hind legs. Note that being AKC-registered does not mean that you are getting a healthy animal. It means that the owner paid money to the AKC to register the dog. While experts recommend against breeding animals with known genetic problems, an OFA certification will give you proof. Be aware, though, that there's no guarantee of health in any animal. There's always a chance that two dogs free of known genetic diseases can still produce a puppy with genetic problems. The breeder should be evaluating you as a potential owner, just as you're evaluating him or her as a breeder. No good breeder will just hand over a puppy without being sure that the new owners will be able to provide it with a good, healthy life. Ask the breeder what they look for in a good owner, and whether they've ever turned potential owners away. The breeder should be able to answer these questions without even having to think about it. You might also ask the breeder for references so you can contact other families who have dogs from previous litters. A reputable breeder should ask questions about your dog background and experience, your lifestyle, and your family to guide you in making the best decision. As difficult as it may be, a good breeder will be willing to turn you away if they think you're a bad fit for their particular puppies. For example, if the litter has particularly inactive parents, the puppies may not be a good fit for your highly active lifestyle. If you get turned away, ask if the breeder can point you to other options and litters so you can expand your search. Also ask if they have any unborn litters coming up that may be a better fit for you. Be patient and don't get discouraged. With enough patience and legwork, you'll find the right puppy. Don't lie to a breeder just to get a puppy, though. Trust the breeder's decision-making process. You don't want to end up with a dog who doesn't fit your needs. Avoid any breeder who offers to cut you a "deal," who has unclean or smelly kennels, or who acts suspiciously in any way. Trust your instincts. A breeder who's in it just for the money has the wrong motivation, and likely isn't interested in the welfare of their dogs. Make sure the dogs are not crowded into cages. They should have plenty of room to stumble around and explore their surroundings. Part of the time, puppies should be kept in the home to expose them to household environments. There should be adequate food and water for all animals on the premises. Kennels should be cleaned daily. Although it may be that a dog had an accident just before you arrived, be suspicious of a kennel that looks like it hasn't been cleaned recently. If a breeder doesn't have a return policy, it suggests they don't really care what happens to their dogs once they leave their property. That's not a good sign! Also find out what kind of documentation you would get with your puppy. Would you get registration papers and pedigree papers? Negotiate for what you want if it's not included in the contract. Be very wary of a breeder who will not discuss the chance that a puppy may need to be returned. Does the contract require you to take the puppy for a vet visit within a set time? Does it cover hereditary issues for life? For only a certain period of time? What does the breeder agree to offer? Trade for another puppy when one is available? Are there restrictions on the activities you can do with your dog that will invalidate the contract or guarantee? Are you purchasing a show prospect puppy or a pet quality animal? Does the breeder have strong feelings or even bans about the vaccinations, foods or supplements for your puppy? Are these opinions based on solid science? This guide will help you learn how to select the best German Shepherd puppy to add to your family. Is a German Shepherd right for me? This is the first question you should ask yourself before you even consider bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy. You need to evaluate your personal and family lifestyle by asking yourself the following questions: Where do you live? German Shepherds are often on the restricted breed list for apartments. Do you spend much of your time at home, or do you have an active work and social life? Are you willing to spend more time at home on the weekends and evenings during puppyhood, even if it means missing social events? Do you love traveling a lot? If so, will you take your puppy with you? If not, do you have someone or someplace you trust to watch your dog when you travel? Is your whole family excited about the idea of a new German Shepherd puppy? Are you already active or willing to become more active? Do you have time in your schedule to devote to training? Knowing the answers to those questions will help get you a couple of steps closer to deciding whether or not a German Shepherd is the right choice for you. Important things to know about German Shepherds: German Shepherd dogs are sometimes affectionately known as German shedders. German Shepherds shed all year long , however, they blow their coats twice a year during which time they will shed exponentially more. When considering getting this breed, you should be comfortable having a dog that sheds. Trimming their nails , cleaning their ears, brushing their teeth, and brushing their coat regularly is sufficient. Of course, during the shedding seasons more frequent brushing will be needed. German Shepherds were originally developed for herding sheep. Accordingly, they have the desire to work and respond best to proper training from a young age, and an active lifestyle. German Shepherds are known to be clingy, so be prepared to have a shadow following you around the house and maybe even in the restroom. German Shepherds are good with kids and are great family dogs. However, they need proper socialization and training at a young age so they can learn how to behave around both kids and adults. German Shepherds require a lot of mental stimulation and have high energy levels, especially as a puppy. As much as I love Allie, she was more than a handful as a puppy. I have seen instances where people underestimate the time, energy, and training a German Shepherd puppy requires and get overwhelmed after bringing their puppy home. These people end up giving up their puppies. It breaks my heart to know these awesome dogs are given up because of a lack of knowledge when selecting a breed of dog. Although they are a handful if you are willing to put in the effort they are in my opinion one of the best breeds of dog to own. German Shepherds are too smart for their own good. They learn things scary fast and sometimes get themselves into trouble because of how smart they are. They learn your routine and habits, and they also learn when and how they can get away with mischief. German Shepherds are incredibly loyal and become very connected to their owners and family. German Shepherds are typically loving and affectionate. From the second I met Allie she greeted me with a wet tongue to the face. That is still her favorite greeting she will kiss anyone that will allow her to get close enough. German Shepherds need training. They need to know that you are the leader and in charge. If not, they will quickly take over the role of being in charge and that is where problems arise. A bored, untrained, not active German Shepherd can become one of the stories you sometimes hear on the news about a GSD being aggressive. In most of those cases, the problem was with the owners and not the dog breed as a whole. Adoption or Breeder? First, you need to decide if you are going to adopt a German Shepherd puppy or buy one from a breeder. Here are some of the benefits of adopting: Rescue puppies are often already sociable, at least partially trained, and loving dogs. Therefore, you will save a lot of time on house training your new puppy. Older puppies or dogs are likely to be calmer than a younger puppy. You are saving the life of a dog that might not have otherwise found a home. The cost of adopting is typically much cheaper than buying a puppy from a breeder. If you decide to get a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder, here are a few things that can help you identify a good, ethical German Shepherd breeder: Ethical breeders care about the health and wellbeing of the puppy and are not just in the business for money. Ethical breeders always make sure that only healthy dogs breed together and follow a strict breeding program where they ensure that breeding and puppy spaces are clean. They should also have papers showing the age of the parent and the family tree of the puppy. Ethical breeders will happily show you around their entire setup; they should have nothing to hide. Ethical breeders will happily answer as many questions as you have to ask. You want to select one that will be compatible with you and your family. Consider the following when picking a puppy from the litter: Choose a puppy that is sociable around you and other puppies. Pick a puppy that walks confidently with its head high and tail up and wagging. Choose a puppy that has clear eyes, ears , and teeth, walks evenly, and appears clean. Basically, choose a puppy that looks healthy. Look at the personalities of the puppies. Choose a welcoming puppy that wants to greet you as opposed to one that retreats or appears shy. Ask to interact with each puppy one by one after seeing them with their littermates. That way you can get a better sense of how the puppy responds to you without distractions. If possible, visit the litter at least three times before making a final decision, this will allow you to determine the personalities of each of those little fluff balls, and see which would best fit into your family. How old should a German Shepherd puppy be when you take it home? Any puppy should be at least 8 weeks old before being separated from their mother. By this timeline, their sensory organs will have also developed fully which will help you to spot any deformities or medical issues. Be wary of any breeder that will allow you to take your puppy home before 8 weeks old. How do you puppy proof for German Shepherds? German Shepherds are naturally active and tend to explore the world with their mouths, especially during their adolescent period. So, before you can bring your new puppy home, there are a few things you can do to puppy-proof your house: Get rid of any poisonous plants or put them out of reach of your new puppy. Cover electrical cords with cable wraps or PVC pipes. Buy a new laundry basket that has a lid, no holes, and is tall. Make sure both your kitchen and bathroom trash cans have lids. Your new puppy will dig around for anything to bite, like chicken bones, diapers, used hygienic products, or even a disposable razor. If possible, you should buy new trash cans that only open when a button is pressed. Store all the chemicals in secured cabinets or even better on high shelves. German Shepherd puppies have strong teeth and can open plastic containers by biting through even the toughest of plastic! Put away any small items or toys that are small enough for your puppy to swallow. Think of small kid toys like Legos or dollhouse furniture that could be dangerous for a curious puppy. Find a safe spot for your shoes. Whether in a closed closet or in the laundry room behind a closed door. I remember losing a pair of brand-new shoes because I forgot to put them away and Allie thought chewing them was a fun idea. Bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy The period of bringing a new German Shepherd puppy home and introducing them to your home and family takes time and above all, patience. If possible, plan to take off work for at least a few days after bringing your puppy home. I picked up Allie on a Saturday, and then took most of the following week off to spend time getting her adjusted to her new home. Remember, your new puppy has been taken from the only family it knew, and you are now their new family. That first week home was a good week of bonding with Allie. It helped her feel comfortable with her new life and allowed me to really get to know my new beautiful energy filled puppy. The best tip for a smooth transition when bringing your German Shepherd puppy home is to begin crate training and potty training as soon as possible. As a breed prone to separation anxiety , you want to give your GSD a zone to feel safe, comfortable, and content to be on their own. While the initial steps of crate training can be time-consuming, it can make the difference between a dog that is a joy to own, and one that can never be left on their own — so, be the dog parent your pooch deserves and put the time in! New German Shepherd puppy checklist and things to buy It is important that your new puppy feels welcomed into their new home. Some items are ok to be left with your puppy, and other items are more dangerous or will be destroyed. This checklist will help you to know what to buy when getting a puppy. New German Shepherd Puppy Checklist. Before we get into the nitty-gritty of choosing the right German shepherd puppy for you, there are several things that you may want to consider. Is this the right breed for me? It breaks my heart that more and more German shepherds are being abandoned or dumped by first-time owners who are unprepared or uneducated about the breed. When choosing a new canine companion, most people often ask what kind of puppy they want instead of what kind of dog they want. And here lies a big difference between the former and the latter. All puppies, no matter what the breed or cross, traverse their first year through the exact same phases, but when they reach adulthood, each dog can have different breed-specific characteristics. Can you afford the cost of owning a German shepherd? Where do you live? Is your apartment German shepherd friendly? Is your home big enough to house a full-sized German shepherd? Do you have enough time to care for a German shepherd dog? Are you willing to sacrifice weekends and evenings to train, socialize, and exercise your shepherd? Do your family support your decision to get a German shepherd? Is there someone in your family who is allergic to dogs? How will you share responsibilities? If you live alone, do you have someone to assist you? Is there a doggy daycare nearby? Sure, female shepherds may tend to be a little more protective of their owners and people, whereas male shepherds may tend to be more protective of their territories. Females may be a bit more affectionate but more prone to mood swings, while males may be more dominant and aggressive. Neutering can make male German shepherds less aggressive and less likely to roam looking for available females. Today both sexes can equally be equally loving and loyal to their owners and families, and both can be equally brave and protective. In conformation, SV and other organizations recognize both male and female. Female shepherds are smaller and appear more refined or feminine than the male ones. Really, when faced with the question of which sex is best for you? It really all boils down to the individual puppy. Most owners get their German shepherds from a breeder, a shelter, and a rescue group. Out of the three, a breeder is the most expensive but the best place to get your future shepherd. Be cautious with breeders who are reluctant to share information and stories about their dogs. Another sign of a reputable breeder is that they have a take-back policy on all their puppies. Where do you find a list of potential breeders? You can find potential German shepherd breeders through the internet, specifically through major kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club or local breed clubs or through advertising the local paper or magazines. Some people even go to the extent of attending dog shows and performance events to find the best breeders in their area, which I encourage you to do if you have time. Sometimes you can find wonderful German shepherd puppies at the local shelter or rescue group. Adopting a rescue shepherd is considerably less expensive than buying a puppy, and you can potentially save their lives. Just understand that they are a bit more of a gamble. Visit The Puppies More Than Once When scouting for a potential puppy, you may be headed to a number of different breeders and shelters. Ideally, you want to visit when the puppies are awake, not when they are napping or sleeping. Ask to stay for a couple of hours so that you can observe how they are playing together. But they are not all alike; they can range in temperament from very bold and outgoing to quiet and shy. When observing a group of German shepherd puppies playing together, you may notice that some pups are bossier than others. You may also notice some puppies that are more cowardly than others. The group of pups you should be looking at and working to decide is the puppies that fall somewhere in between the two extremes. These puppies are exuberant, curious, playful, but not too domineering or pompous in manner or behaving timidly. From this group, you can decide which one to pick. As a rule of thumb, choose a puppy with a temperament that will work well with yours. A good breeder should have done puppy testing when the pups are between 6 and 7 weeks of age. This means they should be able to tell you which puppy has a personality that will complement your own. Male German shepherds tend to stand between 24 and 26 inches tall and weigh between 85 to pounds. Female shepherds are about 20 to 22 inches in height and weigh from about 60 to 75 pounds. German shepherds have a double coat, meaning they have two layers of fur: a medium to long outer coat and a thick, soft undercoat. The length of the outer coat can vary from short to long. The coat can have a range of colors. The most common is black and tan. Other colors include all black, sable, or white. This will help him to point you in the right direction toward a particular pup. Often if your breeder has not already picked a pup for you, you will find a puppy that is naturally drawn to you. Walk over to the puppies, play with them, and rub them gently, then walk away. There will usually at least be at least one puppy that will follow you as you walk away. Play with this puppy and walk back. Kneel and call the pup to you. Are their coats healthy and shiny? Are their eyes clear and bright? Are their living areas kept clean with no visible signs of illness? As touched on earlier, you should ask for a detailed medical history too, such as vaccination records, hereditary diseases, etc. A good breeder should provide you with a health guarantee in the form of writing it. This health guarantee guarantees that the puppy is healthy at the time of the sale. Depending on the contract, you will be given 48 to 72 hours to ensure that the puppy is indeed healthy. Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful and useful as you raise and train your German Shepherd. Here are some of my favorite reviews for German Shepherd supplies that I personally use and recommend. Here is my recommendation for the best dog food for German Shepherds. Leash: A leash is a must-have for any German Shepherd owner. With a good leash, you can give your dog the freedom they need while keeping them safe and under control. Here are my top picks for the best leashes for German Shepherds. A harness that is improperly fitted or used can cause serious injury to your dog. Read my review of the best harnesses for German Shepherds here. Different bowls serve different purposes, and the bowl that you need will depend on a number of factors. See my recommendation for the best dog bowl for German Shepherds here. There are a ton of different factors to consider when choosing a crate. Beds: German Shepherds need a bed that is comfortable, supportive, and durable. This breed is known for being high energy, so you need a bed that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. House: It can be tough to find the best dog house for German Shepherds. Shampoo: You want to find a shampoo that is specifically designed for German Shepherds. This breed has a lot of furs, and you need a shampoo that will be gentle on their skin and coat. Shock Collar: A shock collar is a training tool that can be used on German Shepherds. It delivers an electric shock to the dog when they exhibit certain behaviors. While some people are against the use of shock collars, I believe that they can be helpful in certain situations. Read my review of the best shock collar for German Shepherds here. Vacuum: If you have a German Shepherd, you need a vacuum that is specifically designed to deal with all of the furs they shed. Shedding is a natural process for dogs, but it can be hard to keep up with. The right vacuum will make your life much easier. Related posts:. Final thoughts Where do I start? The first thing that you have to do before you can pick out the best puppy, is to pick out the best breeder. This may come easily, as you may already have a breeder in mind that you trust and who has a good reputation. But chances are that you will have to do your research. And there is also a good chance that you may need to travel some distance to the right breeder. Even if the breeder is several states away, consider making the trip. Getting a new GSD puppy is a significant life commitment. The effort and time that you invest now in going about this properly will pay off for years to come. Here are some important things to look for in a breeder once you locate one that you are interested in pursuing. Call the breeder and have a conversation The first thing to do is call the breeder and have a conversation. A quality German Shepherd breeder will actually require this. They will not permit someone to just show up and purchase one of their dogs and take it home. They will ask you questions such as: Why do you want a GSD puppy? This will aid them in helping you choose. Where do you live, in an apartment or in a home? They will want to ensure that the puppy will not be in a cramped space. Do you have a yard, and is it fenced-in? They will want to make sure that the puppy will have adequate room to exercise as it grows. Do you have children in your home? They will want to make sure that you understand the importance of socialization and training to keep your family safe. Do you have other pets in your home? They will want to make sure that you know how to properly introduce the puppy to other animals, and whether any other pets you have may actually be a danger to the puppy. What type of work do you do, does it require you to be away from home for long periods of time? Because GSDs do not do well alone, they will want to make sure that you have adequate time to devote to your dog. Are you financially prepared to take on a GSD? While this may be a bit of a personal question, it is important to know that you are financially able to care for a GSD. They are expensive to care for, and it is fair for a breeder to ask this question. If a breeder does not ask you some form of these questions, then perhaps think twice. It may be an indication that they are more interested in profit than raising a quality puppy that they care will go to a quality home. Questions for you to ask the breeder: How many different types of dogs do you raise? Can you provide me with a pedigree of all of your puppies? A pedigree is essentially a family tree for your puppy. A good breeder should have a detailed pedigree for any dog they sell. Beware of any breeder that wants to charge for this or says that they will provide it at a later date. Do you have references? They should provide you with several without thinking twice. All reputable breeders will offer this guarantee in the form of a written contract. Do you breed your females more than once a year? Female GSDs should not be bred more than one time per year. This allows for adequate recovery time and maintains good health. Can you provide me with a detailed medical history for your puppies? Health screenings are essential for puppies, and a reputable breeder should be able to provide proof of these. Can you explain any potential health issues for GSD which may come up later in life? A knowledgable breeder should be able to clearly explain conditions like hip dysplasia and other health issues more common in GSDs than other dogs. If the answer to any of these questions comes up as unsatisfactory, move on. It is simply not worth the risk of pursuing the breeder any further. Unfortunately, there are far too many unethical breeders who take a lot of shortcuts which results in dogs prone to both health and behavioral issues. Why is this? You should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. More than half of the states in the U. And out of those states, only 3 permit a puppy to be offered for sale under the age of 8 weeks. The reason for these laws is primarily so that puppies are properly weaned from their mothers and able to eat on their own. In addition to weaning, puppies need to be initially socialized by their mothers as well as their siblings. So a puppy will be taught that these things are bad during these 8 weeks. If you remove a puppy from the litter too early, they may not learn these lessons and develop behavioral problems as they get older. Much like a spoiled child that never learns, often times the source of an ill-behaved puppy can be traced to a lack of discipline at a young age. So to ensure that you have a healthy puppy, that is also sold in accordance with state laws and regulations, understand that it must be 8 weeks old see link above for exceptions — regardless of state law exceptions, waiting 8 weeks is good practice. Decide whether you want to male or female You may have a personal preference for either a female or a male German Shepherd puppy. It is important however to not necessarily just go with your gut on this one. Take a moment and understand some general differences between the two genders. I will explore this issue more in-depth in another post, but here are some important general points to consider. Territorial: Males are naturally more territorial than females. This may give them more of a tendency to wander off in an effort to broaden their territory. Very possessive: Male GSDs are generally more possessive than females. They may be possessive over food and bones, toys, and you! Dominance: Male German Shepherds tend to be more dominant than females. This may result in more of a proclivity towards aggressive bullying behaviors to make sure that it is understood that they are the boss. Dominance requires training to keep it in check. Singular bonding: Male GSDs tend to bond more closely with one person rather than a group of people like a family. Territorial: Females are therefore more welcoming and less territorial than males. They are also less likely to wander off as they have no desire to expand their territory. Dominance: Females display less dominant behaviors than males. Non-singular bonding: Females are more likely to bond with a number of people in a family rather than an individual person. So, how do I choose between the two? This question comes down to the purpose for which you want a German Shepherd. If you are looking for a dog to have trained in protection and are looking primarily for a four-legged security system for your home, then a male is a good choice. However, if your primary interest is to just have a family pet that socializes well with others, then a female is probably right for you. Testing the puppy There is no better way to determine whether or not a specific puppy is the right one for you than to actually get hands-on and doing some investigating. However, even before you begin any interactions with a puppy, make sure that you are testing the correct one. Never try and force any interaction, begin with puppies that are naturally drawn to you. Just like with people, you cannot force a match and expect fruitful results. So be patient and make sure at very least that the puppy is not aversive toward you before you being. The tests: Clap your hands: Does it run away or does it come? A more timid dog may, however, be apprehensive to approach. Make eye contact: When the puppy is looked at, does it stare back at you? If the puppy looks directly at you, it is showing confidence. Vocally call the puppy over to you: Does it come to you right away? If it does how not, however, this could show a behavioral issue or hearing problem, or it could be an indication of another illness as well. Pet the puppy: How does it respond to your touch? However, if it meets your touches with biting or growling, then this is likely an indication of an uneven or bad temperament. It will not just grow out of this, it will have to be trained out of it. Bring a ball with you to test with the puppy: Roll the ball and see what the puppy does. Does it follow it and then bring it to you? Or does it take it away for itself. A more dominant puppy will just take the ball and keep it for itself, reluctant to give it back to you. On the other hand, a more independent puppy may show no interest at all. And one that is submissive may actually be frightened. If you are looking for a very sociable puppy, look for the one that brings the ball right back to you to play some more. The puppy that brings it right back is also an ideal candidate for training in retrieving and other exercises. An even-tempered puppy will show interest in and play with the toy, but it will also allow you to participate and take the toy back without showing you any aggression. Roll the puppy over: Once the puppy comes over to you, gently roll it onto its back and hold it in place. Do not be forceful but be firm. See how the puppy reacts. Is it resisting, or is it just relaxing? A puppy with a more dominant personality will take the path of most resistance, and it may growl or attempt to bite at you. And the even-tempered puppy is the one that may resist for a short time but then submit to what you are doing. Pick up the puppy: Physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it underneath its chest with an open hand. Lift it up high, even above the height of your head and hold it there. What does the puppy do? Does it struggle, or does it stay relaxed? A puppy that struggles may be fearful or dominant. On the other hand, a puppy that stays absolutely relaxed is displaying confidence in itself and trust in you. Hold on to a paw and press it gently: This is somewhat similar to holding it on its back. If there is a response to be had, it will happen immediately. Resistance or pulling the paw away may show dominance and temperament towards aggression. The even-tempered puppy will be you curious as to what you are doing. It may investigate a little and might even lick you. Make an unexpected noise: Whether it is banging a pot and pan together or just yelling, create an unexpected noise. See what the puppy does, does it show fear, interest, or aggression? A fearful puppy may run away or even whimper. While an aggressive-tempered puppy may actually growl and try to bite you. An even-tempered puppy will simply look surprised, and may even want to investigate a little bit further. Meet the parents A lot of breeders will have both the father sire and the mother bitch of the puppies on site. However, some of them will only have the mother because sometimes the father is on loan as a stud from a different breeder. But the mother for sure should be on site, and you should get an idea of what she is like. In the case of my last German Shepherd, I was able to meet both parents. His mother was very kind and sociable and eager to be petted. While on the other hand, his father was clearly dominant, and not a dog to be messed with. Because of my prior experience and knowledge, my GSD turned out exactly as I thought he would — fairly sociable yet wildly protective of me. This was all right because I knew what to expect and I was able to train my dog properly to take the edge off of some of his more dominance behaviors. However, my choice was an informed decision based on years of experience. If you are new to owning a German Shepherd, this may not be an ideal combination. I would recommend for a new German Shepherd owner to consider making sure that both parents are more docile, and possibly even lean towards acquiring a female for your first German Shepherd. Visit the puppy on more than one occasion Just like people, puppies have their on days and their off days. You will not be able to get a very accurate picture of how your puppy will be on one short visit. In fact, with my last dog, I visited him at least 4 times and stayed for at least 30 minutes with him each time prior to taking him home. A good breeder will have no issue with you doing this, and in fact, will prefer it. They want their dogs to be well-matched with their new owners, so this is common practice. The puppy should become accustomed to the people it will soon be spending its entire life with. So the more familiarity that you build now in this phase, the easier that puppy will transition to home life with you and your family. All of these steps are positive reinforcement for your new puppy and will build familiarity and a bond even before you arrive home. Also, bring a small blanket or clothing item and ask the breeder to leave it with the puppy. This will allow your puppy to become familiar with the scent of you and your home. Making for a better transition. So by default, this knowledge enables the breeder to be very good at placing the proper puppies with the proper personalities. Remember to stay focused and not lose sight of your primary objective, which is to select the right puppy for you and your family. If you take the time and care to do your research and ask the right questions, you will come together with the right puppy for you. But remember, this is just the beginning of a major life commitment. So take this step of choosing the right GSD puppy seriously, and you will have laid the foundation for a loving and rewarding relationship for years to come. One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a German Shepherd puppy is what their personality and temperament are like. German Shepherds are just like people. They each have their own personalities, and some are able to get along with other dogs better than others. In fact, how your German Shepherd puppy interacts with other dogs and people will mostly come down to their individual personality. This will mean that your German Shepherd puppy will need less training, and a lot of your interactions with one another will come more naturally. The best puppy for your home may not be the biggest, prettiest dog in the litter! How to get started Before you can worry about choosing the best German Shepherd puppy for your home, you will need to find a breeder. You will need to opt for a German Shepherd breeder who has a good reputation. So you will need to do your research to find the right breeder for your needs. You may even need to travel a fair way to find the perfect breeder. Even if your German Shepherd breeder is located several states away, it will be worth the trip. If you put in the right amount of time and effort now, it should pay dividends throughout the next few years. Here are a few handy tips to help you find the right breeder to buy a German Shepherd puppy from. Talk to your German Shepherd breeder One of the first things you should do is to give the German Shepherd breeder a call. You may be surprised to learn that quality breeders will actually require this to ensure that the puppy is going to a good home. They may not be as interested in the health of the puppy and their new home as they should be, and are more concerned about making a profit from their dogs. The breeder will want to ensure that you have the right space to accommodate your German Shepherd puppy. Have you got any kids? Training your new puppy and giving them the right amount of socialization will be essential for keeping your family safe. Do you have a fenced outdoor space? Your puppy will need to have a good amount of room so they can run around and play. They will need regular exercise to stay fit and healthy. Why do you want a German Shepherd? The breeder will want to know what purpose you want a German Shepherd puppy for. It could be as a pet, for added protection, or to show competitively. Do you have any other pets? This will be an important factor as you will need to know how to introduce your new puppy to other animals. It will also be crucial to know if you have any other pets which could pose a danger to the puppy. What do you do for a living? If you have to work away for long periods of time so that your puppy is left alone for large portions of the day, the breeder will want to know this. Can you afford the financial responsibility of this puppy? Dogs are a financial commitment. This may seem like too much of a personal question, however, it will be important to establish that you can properly care for your new dog. Questions you can ask your breeder There are far too many unethical breeders around. Some irresponsible breeders will take shortcuts when it comes to breeding, which will leave you with dogs who have behavioral and health issues. Do you raise other breeds of dog? This can show you whether they have been bred from healthy dogs. Have you got any references? A good quality breeder should be able to give you these easily enough. Have you got a pedigree for the puppies? This is essentially a family tree of the puppies. A good quality breeder should be able to produce the proper lineage of your new puppy when asked. If the breeder attempts to charge you for this, or says they will give it to you another time, be very wary. Every breeder worth their salt will give you this guarantee as a written contract. How often do you breed your females in a single year? This will allow them to properly recover from giving birth, and help to maintain great health. Have you got a detailed medical history for the puppies? A reputable breeder should be able to give you proof of any health screenings that their puppies have had. This is essential for healthy dogs. Could you explain to me if German Shepherds have any health issues they may suffer from as adults? Puppies should never be taken home if they are less than 8 weeks old. In fact, more than half of the states in America have laws to prevent this from happening. There are several laws which dictate how old a puppy needs to be before it can be adopted or sold. There are only 3 which actually allow puppies to be sold under 8 weeks old: D. These laws are in place for a reason. This is to ensure that all puppies have been properly weaned from their mothers and that they are able to eat without help. Puppies will also need to have been properly socialized before they can leave their mothers. Their mothers and siblings can help to socialize the puppy properly. Most of the behavioral problems in adult dogs can be traced back to this lack of discipline and not having been socialized properly. To make sure that you have a healthy puppy, you will need to choose a puppy that is being sold in accordance with the laws of their state. This will mean buying a puppy that is at least 8 weeks old, if not older. Even if you happen to find a puppy in D. Male or female puppy Perhaps you already have a preference for the gender of your puppy. You will need to understand that the two genders actually have distinct differences. Here are a few things for you to consider to help you make a fully informed choice. Female German Shepherds 1. Physical appearance Typically, female German Shepherds will be much smaller than males. They will also have a less muscular stature. Dominance A female dog will display less behavioral dominance than a male dog will. Family bonding Female German Shepherds are more likely to bond with the whole family rather than a single individual. Territorial A female German Shepherd will be much less territorial than a male dog will be. Male German Shepherds Male dogs will tend to be much larger than females. They are also more muscular. Dominance Males will display a lot more dominance than females. Single person bonding A male German Shepherd is more likely to bond very closely with a single person instead of a whole family. Territorial A male German Shepherd is more likely to be territorial. This means they could be more likely to wander off in an attempt to expand their home turf. Possessive These males tend to be on the more possessive side than their female counterparts. This could be over their food, their favorite toys, or even you. It will be important to give them correct training to teach them not to be aggressive towards you. They should be able to socialize better with others, too. But the best way to find out if your prospective puppy will be the right fit for your home is to do some proactive investigating. This can also be a great indicator of their future behavior, too. You should never force the interaction. If the puppy is reluctant to come near you and interact with you, then you will be better off choosing a different pup. Tests for your German shepherd puppy 1. Eye contact When you look directly at your puppy, does it look back at you? If your puppy stares back at you, this is showing confidence. If your puppy avoids eye contact then it may be anxious, scared, or have a vision issue. Clapping your hands This can indicate how social your puppy is. If it comes towards you and tries to interact with you, this is a great sign. This shows that the dog is eager to socialize with people. Call out to the puppy Do they come towards you at the sound of your voice? This is a fantastic sign. Pet the dog It will be important to note how the puppy interacts with your physical touch. If the puppy is affectionate and loving, this will be another great sign. If they bite or growl at you, this will likely be an indication of a bad temperament. The dog will have to be trained out of this. Play ball Bring a ball with you when you meet your puppy. Roll this towards the dog and see how the puppy interacts with it. Does the puppy follow the ball? Bring it back to you? Or does the dog keep the ball for itself? Puppies that are more dominant will keep the ball for themselves. They will also be reluctant to give the toy back to you. A more submissive puppy is likely to be frightened of the ball coming towards them. A more independent dog will likely show very little interest, if they show any at all. Puppies with an even temperament will show some interest in the ball, will play with it, but will also be willing for you to play a part of the game without showing any aggression. Searching for a more sociable dog? Keep an eye out for the puppy that brings the ball right back to you and asks you to play more. This puppy will be a fantastic candidate for training as well as other exercises. Roll the puppy When the puppy has come over to you, you can try to gently roll them onto their back, then hold them in place. Watch how the puppy reacts to you. Do they relax under your touch, or do they resist you? A dominant puppy will be more likely to resist you. It could even try to bite you or growl at you. An even-tempered puppy will resist at first, but will submit to you after a short time. Pick up your puppy You can physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it under its chest with an open hand. Lift the puppy up, and see what it does. Does the puppy stay relaxed or does it struggle? A struggling dog is likely to be dominant or scared. A puppy that stays perfectly relaxed is showing that it trusts you and that it is confident. This is a similar test to holding the puppy on its back. Chances are the puppy will react immediately. Any resistance or trying to pull their paw away from you could be a sign of an aggressive temperament or dominance. A puppy that accepts your actions will show a more submissive temperament. They could even lick you! Create an unexpected noise This could just be a sudden shout or banging some pots and pans. The important factor will be watching how the puppy reacts to a sudden noise. Do they show interest? Are they scared? Aggressive puppies could try and bite you and growl at you. Visit the puppy parents Most breeders will have both puppy parents in the same place. Some of them may only have the mother with the puppies because the father was on loan from a stud or a different breeder. Either way, the mother of your puppy should be with them when you pay the dogs a visit. If one of the parents appears aggressive, this could show you that you need to do some more training with your new puppy. A dog that displays more dominant tendencies will need proper training to take the edge off these behaviors. Choosing a female German Shepherd will also be a good choice. Puppies will have their off days, just like humans do. It will be important to visit your new puppy a few times and spend at least 30 minutes with them so that you can see what they will be like. They will likely prefer it to someone who only pays their puppy one visit before collecting them! This is a good indicator that the breeder wants their dogs to be matched with the right owners. If there are other people in your household who will be living with the German shepherd puppy, such as kids or a partner, you will need to bring them along, too. Your new puppy will need to get accustomed to the people it will be spending time with. It will be much easier to transition your puppy to living in your home. You should also bring some treats along for your new puppy each time you visit. These are all positive reinforcements that can allow your new puppy to get used to you and encourage them to bond with you. It will also be a good idea to bring something with you that you can leave behind for the puppy. This could be a new toy or a blanket that smells like you. This will allow the puppy to get used to your smell, which can also make the transition easier. They will also be very well acquainted with the mother of the puppies and have knowledge of the father. So your breeder should be able to help you choose the right puppy for your needs, and match the right personality to you. In summary So there you have it! Choosing the right German Shepherd puppy for your needs is certainly more challenging than it first appears. The most important goal is to choose the right dog that will fit in well with you and your family. As long as you do the proper research beforehand, you should be able to find the right dog for your home. Remember to ask the right questions when you find your breeder to make sure that they are a good person to buy a dog from. Be sure to visit your new puppy several times before you bring them home. As long as you take this responsibility seriously, you will have laid the perfect foundation for a fruitful relationship with your new puppy. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.

Kat Wednesday 23rd of November I put a comment up here a couple of weeks ago and it was deleted. I said in it that this was the best combination I have ever had. I love how snugly they are but they are just as ready to play, go hiking, and walks are the best for them. They are a great combination. However, as with all breeds health testing is a huge factor. Each breed contains issues. Having health testing is extremely important. All dogs can have issues. My older lab is 13 and having issues with his back legs because he was slammed into injuring his back and knees by our young "purebred" St. Bernard who ended up passing at 4 due to cancer and had juvenile arthritis. Our Baby Girl the labs sister was born with bad front legs and with treatment and lots of love lasted until .A family member has a 10 year old "purebred" Pom who has horrible knees that was cheaply purchased from a breeder. Or my neighbor who picked up 2 Great Danes. One for free because the "purebred" breeder bred a double merle gene and caused him to be born without eyes and with many health problems. It has cost over 10k to keep him alive and he's now 6 years old and relatively healthy. It's important for people to understand that whether it's a "purebred" or "mixed" dog it's important to ensure the dog or the dog's parents are health tested. Stop promoting cheap puppy mill prices because those are the dogs that end up dead young costing the families thousands. If you are looking for a dog save up for the initial purchase and do your due diligence and research the health and cost. Depends on what we want at the time. Kat Tuesday 15th of November I absolutely love this combination and currently have 3 of them. They are so snuggly when it's time to rest. However, because they have longer noses and better breathing they are fast. My older male gives our Australian Shepherd mix a run for his money. Our others are just as fast. They get the major zoomies leaving us gasping for breath through the laughter. When we sit down they are right there for snuggle time. However, I do not agree with their price listing. They are healthy, active, smart, and well balanced. Some of the best dogs we've ever had. I highly recommend this breed and hope someday that this can be a breed in and of itself and no longer considered a "designer" dog. I do hope they can come up with a better name for the breed rather than French Bullhuahua. It just sounds designer. If a German Shepherd can come from a wolf type dog and a working sheep herding line then a Bullhuahua can be named something better. FrenchieWiki Community. Even the Chihuahuas are known for their short-tempered nature. Hence, do not be surprised if you find your puppy growing up to an obstinate or independent-natured dog. The French bulldogs are not known to be very loyal and often suffer from little dog syndrome, which makes them frequently excited. It is recommended not to leave them alone with your kid or pets since they get easily provoked or irked. Although, by instinct, they are not very friendly with strangers and would throw warning calls the moment they would come across anything suspicious. However, they do not make excellent watchdogs. The French Bullhuahua love attention and, to remain happy, they need constant interaction with the family. These dogs can adapt to all weather conditions. In warm temperatures, supply them with plenty of fresh drinking water, while in the cold, the short-coated dog might need a sweater. Care Exercise The bullhuahua does not need too much exercise. There are primarily two reasons for this. First, they are small-sized dogs, and secondly, they remain active all day playing around the house, or wherever they get a chance. They love to walk and run, and hence take them out with you once a day so as to satisfy their playing instincts. You can also take them to the dog park. This should also help them socialize well. Grooming The dog has a short coat, and do not shed much, and hence requires minimal grooming. Rest is general care meant for small size dogs. Keep a check for any ear infections, especially if your dog has inherited hanging ears. Also, trim their nails when long and brush their teeth at least 2 to 3 times a week. Health Problems Like most other crosses, the French bullhuahua is not much prone to any specific diseases limited to their breed. But keep general dog diseases into consideration. Also, ask your breeders about the health issues or ailments, if any, borne by its parents. You should also take your dog to the vet for a routine checkup once a year. Training You must take socialization and obedience training for this dog seriously. These dogs are not too obedient and might act obstinate from time to time. Begin training your puppies firmly and tactfully when they are still young. Instead, using a positive reinforcement method is recommended. Be firm and consistent, gather patience and praise your pup frequently as and when they show you success. Give them a loving pat; give them food treats every time they pick up a trick or training. This would help them develop an interest in learning new things every day. The quantity should be the same as other dogs of its size and energy level. But do not compromise on the quality of food to make sure that your dog is getting the correct levels of nutrition. Interesting Facts The French bullhuahuas are excellent at size-related agility. 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 French Bullhuahua Highlights The French Bullhuahua is a mixed breed dog. They are not purebreds like their French Bulldog or Chihuahua parents. The main colors of French Bullhuahuas are golden, brown, white, brown, black, brindle, merle, cream, and tan. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. French Bullhuahuas are generally considered to be a good choice for allergy sufferers. Their coats are very easy to groom. A good brushing per week will probably do. French Bullhuahuas have medium-to-high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one good half-hour- to hour-long walk per day with a few good, active play sessions and shorter walks mixed in. French Bullhuahua dogs prefer to be mostly around adults or older kids who know how to play gently. Early socialization, however, can help them get along with other pets just fine. French Bullhuahuas can be a bit stubborn and take to house-training slowly, but for a consistent owner, their loyalty and desire to please will help training go a bit more smoothly. French Bullhuahua History The French Bullhuahua mixed dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Chihuahuas and French Bulldogs in the s, likely in North America. Breeders wanted to mix the two adorable parent breeds to help minimize the breathing problems of the French Bulldog with their brachycephalic short and smushed faces. They continued to create French Bullhuahuas as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though the French Bullhuahua mixed breed got its start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up rescues in your area, or check with breed specific French Bulldog or Chihuahua rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. French Bullhuahua Size As the French Bullhuahua is a relatively new breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between Chihuahua and French Bulldog parents, you can expect French Bullhuahuas to be on the small side. Most weigh in at ten to 30 pounds and stand anywhere from six to twelve inches from the shoulder. However, many can be smaller or larger than average. French Bullhuahua Personality If there was ever a spunky mixed breed dog, it is the French Bullhuahua. As smaller dogs, French Bullhuahuas feel the need to protect their humans and tend to be a bit yappy. This lap dog loves to let their humans know about door knocks or unexpected noises from the TV. These dogs do best with early training to curb any unwanted barking habits. They can be a bit stubborn and take to house-training slowly, but for a consistent owner, their loyalty and desire to please will help training go a bit more smoothly. As small pups, French Bullhuahuas tend to latch on to one family member most of all, though they can get along with others in the house. French Bullhuahuas may be best suited to a one-person home or smaller families, as they demand quite a bit of attention. French Bullhuahua Health The French Bullhuahua mixed breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Chihuahua and French Bulldog also face. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Some of the more common health problems the French Bullhuahua suffers from include: Intervertebral Disc Hip Dysplasia. Bullhuahua Origins The Chihuahua The Chihuahua is a beloved canine breed that has a rich and fascinating history. Originally native to Mexico, these precocious little dogs date back at least two thousand years, and were likely developed by the Toltec people of Central Mexico. Over time, this small but feisty breed spread across North America, and today they are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. The French Bulldog The French Bulldog is a beloved and iconic dog breed that has a long and fascinating history. Tracing its origins back to the mids, this charismatic breed is thought to have been developed from a variety of other breeds, including the English bulldog and various terrier types. Originally bred in England for use in the silk-weaving industry, these puppies were transported across the channel to France, where they quickly found favor among Parisian elites. The Bullhuahua When it comes to adorable dog breeds, there are few that can rival the mix of Chihuahuas and French Bulldogs. Designer breeders started breeding these two together in the early s, the goal being to minimize the breathing problems of French Bulldogs with their smushed faces by combining them with Chihuahuas, whose slighter body frame and airier snout helped promote increased airflow. Over the years, this fascinating hybrid dog breed has experienced widespread popularity among dog lovers across the globe. French Bulldog Chihuahua mix Appearance The French Bulldog Chihuahua mix is a small but adorable dog that stands out for its unique look. Your Chihuahua French Bulldog mix should have a rectangular body with a compact and muscular build and a wide chest. They should also have a head that is slightly larger than their body, which may be apple-shaped given the Chihuahua parent's tendency towards round heads. Most French Bulldog Chihuahua mixes fall within the range of under 30 pounds and under 12 inches at the shoulder. Bullhuahua Temperament Chihuahua French Bulldog Mixes are known for their feisty, energetic personalities. They are often described as fearless and stubborn, with a tendency to be territorial over their favorite toys and hiding spots. However, these pups also have a playful side that makes them fun-loving and affectionate companions. Whether they are racing around your yard or snuggling up on the couch, Chihuahua French Bulldog Mixes are sure to keep you on your toes with their unique blend of traits! So if you're looking for an entertaining companion that will never fail to put a smile on your face, then a mixed breed dog is a perfect choice. Just remember to go easy on the training, as these mischievous pups have a mind of their own! A post shared by Kasey make. These dogs are known for their easy-going temperament and friendly nature, which makes them well-suited to living in multi-pet households. French Bullhuahuas can get along with practically any animal as long as the introduction process is done slowly and patiently. Whether it's a cat, another dog, or even a bird or reptile, this outgoing breed is quick to adapt if they're given plenty of time to adjust. However, they are stubborn and stubborn, which is why he can easily drive you crazy. They are friendly and cuddly but extremely wary of strangers, which they will bark as soon as they consider they have entered their territory. They are dependent, and they need constant affection and attention because otherwise, they become bitter and unhappy. The French Bulldog Chihuahua mix is loyal, defending their family in the face of possible danger. They love to play and have continual attention. They have great intelligence, are always alert, and surprise everyone with their ingenuity. Caring for the French Bulldog Chihuahua mix The French Bulldog Chihuahua mix has excellent adaptive abilities, and it is impressive how they adapt to different environments and climates. However, if he lives in cold weather, he will need to be helped to maintain his body temperature by dressing him. The main thing to consider when caring for a French Bulldog Chihuahua mix will be to ensure that he gets enough exercise because due to his boundless energy if he does not get enough exercise, he becomes nervous and can develop many health problems. This exercise must be combined with a good diet, adjusted and adapted to his nutritional needs, and supplemented with good hydration. His fur does not require much care because his fur is short and not very dense; unless it is really very dirty, it does not need to be brushed daily. French Bulldog Chihuahua mix Education As we told you, the French Bulldog Chihuahua mix has a relatively robust character, which means that he can sometimes be dominant. Unfortunately, this feature usually complicates education, causing many guardians to lose patience and give up, resigning themselves to submitting to their pet's commands. However, the fact that a dog is stubborn and always gets what it wants is something that can be changed with good training. A key factor to consider is the age of the dog at which you start training him: the younger, the easier it will be to teach him tricks. Your attitude is also very important, and you should be firm but not harsh, and you should never resort to physical or verbal punishment. One of the most valuable techniques with this type of breed is techniques based on positive reinforcement. French Bulldog Chihuahua mix Health Even though both the Chihuahua and the French Bulldog have an excellent number of congenital diseases that can affect them, the Bullhuahua has not inherited any of them. In this sense, genetics favor this breed, as they only suffer from a few diseases, including pulmonary stenosis, which affects the respiratory system, hip dysplasia, or possible tracheal collapse, common in the French Bulldog. To ensure that your pet is healthy and to keep it that way, it is best to visit the veterinarian regularly. Thus, the corresponding check-ups, dewormings, and vaccinations can be carried out. Leave a comment. Brindle, tan, brown, black, white, cream, merle Suitable for Experienced dog owners, apartment living, singles Temperament Playful, intelligent, reserved with strangers, stubborn While they can be great family dogs, they may be best suited for singles or small families, as they tend to attach to one particular human. Keep reading to learn more about French Bullhuahuas so that you can decide whether or not these dogs are a good fit for you and your family. 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. If a dog is being sold for much less or much more than you expect to pay, it is worth asking why. These pups tend to be cautious around new people or strangers. They will suit you well if you are not new to owning a dog and can make a wonderful apartment companion. Still, you will want to make sure to start training your French Bullhuahua right away to nip any unwanted behavior in the bud. Are These Dogs Good for Families? This is because these dogs will play favorites, choosing one member of the household to bond more closely with. They do not appreciate a lot of commotion and are generally reserved with new people. If you do have kids, especially if they are very young, make sure to teach them how to properly interact with a dog; your French Bullhuahua may snap at them if they are too rough. Keep in mind that the earlier you introduce your dog to your children, the more likely they are to get along. Similarly, the French Bullhuahua needs plenty of socialization to get along with other pets. They can be territorial and overprotective animals, but the more opportunities your pet has to meet and get to know other animals from an early age, the better. These dogs are more prone to weight gain than other breeds, so we recommend sticking to specific mealtimes rather than allowing your pet to freely eat. Talk to your vet about what type and how much food is appropriate for your specific dog. You should plan to take your dog out walking for a minimum of 30 minutes each day. Your French Bullhuahua will also benefit from opportunities to run around in the backyard or at the dog park. As long as your pet gets adequate exercise, having a yard is not a requirement; these dogs are certainly adaptable to living in an apartment or another small space. This inherent stubbornness can make training your dog quite a challenge. As a result, these dogs are likely best suited for experienced dog owners who are familiar with dog training. You may want to set aside some time and money to bring your dog to a professional trainer. It is very important that your French Bullhuahua get the socialization and training it needs from an early age to avoid unwanted behaviors. If you plan to train your dog yourself, try to stay consistent and calm with your pet. It will respond much better to positive reinforcement than harsher methods of training. You should expect to brush your dog up to three times weekly to maintain a healthy coat and help prevent shedding. However, you should plan to clean its ears about once a week and trim its nails once every few weeks. Below, we have listed some serious and minor conditions you should look out for. Minor Conditions. Brindle, brown, tan, black, white, cream, merle Temperament: Playful, intelligent, stubborn, reserved, loyal, loving, gentle Most Suitable For: Active families, active single individuals, apartment dwellers, experienced owners What Does a Chihuahua French Bulldog Mix Look Like? Your French Bulldog Chihuahua might be a brachycephalic breed like the French Bulldog, with a shortened snout — this can lead to breathing problems down the road. It might also inherit the upright, triangular ears of the Chihuahua, along with their almond-shaped eyes. Other French Bulldog characteristics might be a rounded forehead. It will have a shorter coat, like the Chihuahua, but can come in a variety of coat colors. Are you looking for a way to treat your furry friend? Sign up for our newsletter for a chance to win a free month of Barkbox! Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to get emails from myk9life. We'll respect your privacy and you can unsubscribe any time. Bred alongside English Bulldogs and Boxers, the French Bulldog was a miniature version of the English Bulldog traditionally used in bull-baiting and dog fighting at the beginning of the 19th century. During the breeding of this miniature bulldog, Nottingham was undergoing a transformation due to the Industrial Revolution, sending many lace workers in Nottingham to Paris, where they could continue to work in the industry. P Morgan and the Rockerfellers. They were the second most popular dog in the United States, behind only the Labrador Retriever! Given their size, the French Bulldog is favored among the elderly population and are often found among those who live in apartments. Their low-maintenance approach to life makes them a favorite among those seeking an easy-going pet. Though they still require activity, they prefer mental stimulation to exhaustive physical exercise. Over time, the French Bulldog was crossed with French dogs to create a smaller breed standard with consistent features. Since its inception, the French Bulldog has been one of the most popular small dog crossbreeds, especially during the s and early s, when crossbreeding became popular throughout the United States.

History Where are German Shepherd Dogs from? Perhaps never in the history of any breed has such concerted effort been put into improving a dog, mostly due to the formation in of the Verein fur Deutsche Scharferhunde SV, an organization in Germany devoted to overseeing the breeding of the German Shepherd. Breeders sought to develop not only a herding dog but also one that could excel at jobs requiring courage, athleticism, and intelligence. During World War I, they were the obvious choice for a war sentry. The Wolfdog was later dropped as it caused many people to fear the dogs. How big do German Shepherd Dogs get? The double-coat, with a thick undercoat that sheds twice annually, loses hair continuously but can be maintained with regular brushing one or two times weekly. What are the German Shepherd Dog colors? Black, tan, solid black and solid sable. How long do German Shepherd Dogs live? Lifespan: 10—12 years What are some German Shepherd Dogs facts and information? The German Shepherd held the number one spot in American popularity for many years. Although presently it has dropped from the top spot, the German Shepherd remains as one of the most versatile dogs ever created, serving as a police dog, war dog, guide dog, search-and-rescue dog, narcotics- or explosives-detecting dog, show dog, pet—and even shepherd. Related Content. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.

And we can certainly understand why! Goldendoodles have the sweetest temperament, high levels of intelligence, and their signature low-shedding coats. However, it might not be as easy to find an ethical Goldendoodle breeder in PA. The growing popularity of Doodles has also attracted unethical breeders and puppy mills who only do this for the sake of their own financial gain. Beware of irresponsible Amish and Mennonite breeders, who are notorious for running puppy mill operations. This is not to say that all Amish and Mennonite breeders are running puppy mills — just that they are known for doing so. Screening the parent pups is the best way of minimizing the risk of the puppies inheriting any genetic conditions , such as hip dysplasia, hereditary eye diseases, heart problems, and so on. Health guarantees should always come in written form and with your adoption documents. Many Goldendoodle breeders in PA post their customer testimonials on their websites. However, we recommend you do an additional search on Google, Yelp. Facebook, here at Doodle Doods , or Reddit. In fact, this breeder created the very first litter of Mini Goldendoodles, ever! Located in the neighboring state of West Virginia, you simply cannot miss this exceptional breeding program. Especially considering that they provide car delivery service for their Goldendoodles to PA! Fox Creek Farm specializes in breeding Multigenerational Goldendoodles of all sizes. Their adorable pups come in beautiful coat colors, such as cream, apricot, red, and the parti pattern. They aim to produce low to non-shedding pups, and specializing in Multigenerational Goldendoodles helps them achieve just that. They raise their dogs in a really nice nursery-type facility where the puppies have hour care and are never left alone. Their pups are raised with the help of the Puppy Culture program , which includes crate training, potty training, early socialization, and Early Neurological Stimulation ENS. Not to mention, many other enrichment protocols to set their pups up for success. What Makes This Breeder Unique? Needless to say, all of their puppies are born from thoroughly health screened parent dogs. Waitlist: Yes. Luckily, another excellent dog breed that is fast gaining popularity in the American State of Pennsylvania is the Goldendoodle. A mix between the Golden Retriever and Poodle, the Goldendoodle is quite loved for a number of reasons. It features a beautiful coat or fur that is said to be hypoallergenic or low shedding, which should be quite friendly to dog owners with allergies to dog hair. They are a healthy mix of calm, sweet, energetic, playful, and intelligent and make the perfect companion for most families. If you reside in Pennsylvania, and you are looking to own a beautiful Goldendoodle puppy, then you are in luck as Pennsylvania is home to numerous Goldendoodle breeders. Some of these breeders are reputable, while a few are not. In this article, we highlight a few of the most reputable Goldendoodle breeders in Pennsylvania that produce some of the most high-quality Goldendoodles in the United States of America. They have been able to earn a decent reputation in breeding high-quality Goldendoodles puppies that are blessed with intelligence, a charming disposition, and are healthy. Their Goldendoodle pups grow up to become awesome family companions and support dogs. Every Goldendoodle puppy is raised in a very spacious property in New Columbia, Pennsylvania. They are beautiful puppies that deserve and enjoy love and care throughout their stay at the breeding facility. Every puppy is well socialized as they get to play and interact with various people and various textures as well as sounds and sights. Each breeding Golden Retriever and poodle sire or dam is carefully selected after extensive research has been done. They all possess great pedigrees and each comes from Championed lines. They are AKC registered and are certified free from genetic health testing which they go through extensively. They also have their hips and elbows certified free from hip dysplasia through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals and each has their eyes and hearts checked by a licensed vet. Every Goldendoodle puppy from Keystone ClassicDoodles goes home with a written health guarantee against genetic defects, an updated record of their health including vaccinations and dewormings and they are each microchipped. Size: Standard, Medium Goldendoodle puppies Goldendoodle breeder details: Location: Jefferson Ave, Avella, PA Telephone: Learn more This well-established, experienced breeder began breeding Golden retrievers in the early s. The breeder is extremely proud of their outstanding acre facility and welcomes potential purchasers to visit the setup and meet all the dogs. All the puppies are bred to be happy and healthy and come with a 2-year health guarantee against congenital diseases. The breeder prefers that you visit them to pick your puppy, and they also like to meet their prospective buyers before parting with one of their puppies. The pick of all litters is determined by the date the deposit is paid. The price of Doodles varies quite widely, depending on a number of factors, including: The adult size of the dog Color The likely hypoallergenic qualities of the dog The generation of the puppy Curly-coated Goldendoodle puppies look like cute Teddy Bears, and they tend to be very light shedders. Those qualities make these pups extremely desirable, and their price reflects that. Doodles with unusual or rare colors, such as red, parti, or merle , are also much sought after, pushing up their cost. Tiny Dog, Big Price Tag! Most people want a smaller-sized dog, so Mini Goldendoodles are the most popular size and are, therefore, more expensive to buy. Recently, some unscrupulous breeders have been attempting to produce Micro or Teacup Goldendoodles by backcrossing multigenerational dogs to produce tiny pups that weigh as little as 10 pounds. These little dogs are effectively runts that can have lots of serious inherited health problems, and most professional, experienced breeders find the practice of this extensive inbreeding unethical. That price tag is very tempting to puppy mills and backyard breeders who are churning out as many Micro Goldendoodles as they can, which is very much to the detriment of the breed. Multiple Breeds Most legitimate breeders only offer one breed. If you spot adverts for multiple breeds, compare the details against other similar ads. If you spot any duplication, walk away. Location, Location Adverts for puppies should contain a landline contact telephone number. Often, puppy farms are situated in remote areas, well away from prying eyes, so check that telephone number to make sure it matches the location where the puppy is being kept. Cut And Paste? Take a look at other adverts for Goldendoodle puppies and other breeds too. Often, backyard breeders will cut and paste wording across multiple adverts, even those for other breeds. Puppies are usually eight weeks old before they can have their first jabs. If the advert states that the pups are less than eight weeks old and they are advertised as having been vaccinated, they might be from a puppy mill. Other Danger Signs Other danger signals to watch out for include: Puppies that are offered at very low prices are often from puppy mills. Puppy farms exist solely to produce large numbers of puppies as quickly as possible. The idea is to exploit current trends and make maximum profit. So, they work on selling quantity, not quality. Reputable breeders will not expect you to meet them at a gas station or a shopping mall car park to hand over the puppy. If possible, you also want to see the father dog. The breeder should be able to show you clean health certificates for the parent dogs, as well as vaccination paperwork, and proof of deworming and flea prevention. In fact, many insist on that. Reputable breeders generally insist that you sign a contract that prevents you from using the dog for breeding purposes without the express permission of the breeder. The demand for Goldendoodle puppies currently outstrips the supply. You can reasonably expect to wait for at least six months before a puppy becomes available. If you want a particular size, color, coat type, sex, or personality type, you could wait for one or even two years for the perfect puppy to be available. Check out the posts below for the list of ethical breeders from other neighboring states:. Goldendoodle via lokipokidoodle How To Find A Reputable Goldendoodle Breeder Selecting a breeder is a major decision that everyone who wants to bring a Goldendoodle into their home has to face. You want to choose one carefully as their breeding practices will have an impact on the temperament and health of your Goldendoodle puppy. Start by looking at online sources such as Google reviews, online forums, discussion groups and social media platforms to see what other people are saying about the breeder. Did they have a good experience buying from them? To take your research a bit further, you can ask Goldendoodle organizations and clubs based in your area about their opinion of the breeder you are considering to purchase from. Many Goldendoodle clubs also have their own lists of responsible breeders so they can give you additional recommendations for good Goldendoodle breeders. You may also consider visiting some dog shows and events as they are a good opportunity to meet breeders in person and see their Goldendoodles. You can also ask other dog owners that are showing their Goldendoodles for breeder recommendations. Finally, ask potential breeders for references and consider contacting these people to ask about their experience with the breeder. Reputable breeders always prioritize the well-being of their dogs and strive for positive reviews. You should inquire about temperament and health of the Goldendoodle these people purchased. Use this information to make an informed decision. All reputable Goldendoodle breeders conduct them on their breeding dogs — whether they are breeding from purebred Golden Retrievers for F1 Goldendoodles and Poodles or from Goldendoodles for later generations like F2 Goldendoodles. A stipulates the health testing requirements for Goldendoodles and if the breeder is registered with G. A, you know that the breeding dogs have undergone full health testing. A heart clearance O. Ask to see documentation of these clearances before purchasing from a Goldendoodle breeder. All responsible breeders should be willing to provide any health documentation. They should also be happy to answer any questions you have about their breeding program. However, if you have the opportunity to check out the facilities you should do it. Check that the kennels are clean, that they dogs and puppies have access to fresh water and also that there is not a build up of feces or urine. Comfortable living conditions: The breeder should keep their Goldendoodles, Golden Retrievers and Poodles in comfortable living conditions. They should have large, comfortable kennels or dog beds and also have a decent amount of space to exercise and socialize with other dogs. Healthy breeding dogs and puppies: If you get the opportunity to meet the parents of the Goldendoodle litter you are interested in, make sure they are well-tempered and also healthy. Sometimes the mother will be quite protective of her puppies so she may show signs of aggression. If you are purchasing a puppy online and getting it delivered, ask if the breeder would be happy to video call you or send videos of their Goldendoodle puppies and breeding dogs to you. Ask About Socialization Goldendoodle breeders should begin the socialization process before their puppies are sold. The puppies should be exposed to a wide variety of sounds, experiences, people and places so they can adjust to their new homes and adult life. Nevertheless, they should start exposing them to sounds like household appliances, provide mental stimulation with toys and games and also encourage playtime and interactions with their littermates and family. The most common ones are: Lack of registration: If a Goldendoodle breeder cannot provide registration papers or other relevant documentation, it may be a sign that they are not operating a reputable breeding program. Overbreeding: Think twice about purchasing from a Goldendoodle breeder who always has puppies available or offers an excessive amount of dog breeds. This may suggest that the breeder is overly focused on profit instead of the health and wellbeing of their puppies. Lack of health checks: A reputable Goldendoodle breeder will conduct health clearances on their breeding dogs to ensure they are free of genetic health issues that could be passed on. If a breeder cannot provide documentation of these health checks, it may be a sign that they are not prioritizing health. Further Reading.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. As we all know too well, what we put in our belly has a huge impact on our health, vitality, length and quality of life. They have to strike a fine balance between getting enough nutrients to grow and avoiding an over-abundance that can lead to abnormal growth and disabling conditions. In this article you will learn precisely how to feed your puppy. What they can eat, what they should not, how many times you should feed them each day, basic information on home-made diets and the pros and cons of various commercial dog foods. The majority of Labrador owners feed their puppy kibble. Kibble is ground meal, shaped into dried biscuit-like pellets that are extremely convenient to buy, store and feed, providing everything a puppy needs in one easy to handle product. All the major brands carry a range of kibble and many are specifically formulated to suit the precise needs of puppies. For our recommendations of the best puppy food for labs, please read our article on: The Best Food for Labrador Puppies. Good breeders will supply you with all the information you need to feed your new puppy and you should follow this advice. Puppies almost always get upset tummies during a change of diet. The stress of moving to a new home is enough to deal with without them potentially having tummy upset on top. So try to avoid this. But expect your puppy to get diarrhea after such a sudden change. What Can Puppies Eat? With a bewildering choice of different puppy foods available, what to feed your puppy may not be the easiest decision to make. You Can Feed Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is ground up food, formed into pellets and dried for easy storage and convenience. It is a specially formulated, complete and balanced diet, containing everything a puppy needs to grow and be healthy. Many people believe kibble is the best way to feed a puppy, with it being so easy to buy, store and feed while containing every nutrient a puppy needs in the right proportions. Wet, Complete Puppy Foods Are An Option As the name suggests, complete wet dog food is complete and balanced, meaning nothing should be fed in combination. Everything needed is included in this one food. Complete wet foods come in individual pouches or tins with one pouch or tin containing one single serving. In the main these foods are low in nutrition, contain a high amount of cheap fillers, by-products and water and need mixing with a biscuit to give them some substance and to make them more complete. Because the food is such low quality, you have to feed a lot of it. And what goes in, must come out. This type of feeding was popular decades ago and I do remember my parents feeding our first dogs this way, but most people have moved on from this and are feeding their dogs in better ways now. Raw Food, BARF And Home-Made Diets Raw feeding is a diet that consists of mostly raw meat, edible bones and animal organs, though most practitioners also mix in small portions of fruit, veg and selected other foodstuffs. There are many people feel strongly that this is the best possible way to feed a dog. But I would caution most people that to feed this diet successfully, you need to do A LOT of research, gain a lot of knowledge and truly understand a dogs nutritional needs to make sure they get exactly what they need in the right amounts. Many people wonder if they can feed their puppy human foods, anything found in the fridge or larder. Furthermore, there are many human foods that are toxic to dogs that you should avoid at all costs. Too much of some nutrients can be bad in itself, but also prevent the absorption and use of other nutrients too. So supplementing a balanced diet is a bad thing to do. Can You Give Puppies Milk? Assuming you get your puppy at the recommended 8 weeks, they will have been fully weaned before you bring them home. Many puppies are intolerant of cows milk and drinking it leads to an upset tummy and diarrhea so you would do best to avoid giving your puppy any milk at all. One exception is for very young puppies under 6 weeks of age. When we have newborn puppies at our house we sometimes need to supplement and use Esbilac Milk Supplemen t. However, if you have a very young puppy that you think may need supplementing please first consult with your veterinarian. Are They Necessary? You will likely be feeding your puppy a commercially available complete and balanced dog food, in which case you certainly should not supplement their food. Supplementing this will mean too much of one or more things, making it unbalanced which can actually lead to harm. But an excess amount of calcium in the diet of a Lab puppy can lead to skeletal development problems. So adding a calcium supplement to an already complete diet can actually do more harm than good. There may also be times your vet advises you to do so. But if feeding raw, you should know more about nutrition than I do. This is a hard question to answer and sadly I cannot give you a definite quantity or weight to feed them each day. Puppies grow at different rates, some are more active than others and there can be large differences between metabolisms too. However… The biggest determining factor is how concentrated the nutrients and calories are in the brand of food you feed them. High quality foods are nutrient rich and give a puppy all they need from quite small amounts of food. But cheaper brands are full of low quality and nutritionally empty fillers that mean a puppy needs considerably more to get what they need. Start by feeding your puppy according to the guidelines on the label of the puppy food you buy for them. Then see how their body develops. Puppies should not be fat! But at the other end of the scale if they start to look and feel a little slim, up their portion sizes a little. The guidelines on the food you buy are just that…guidelines. You might also be interested in:. Remember, Labs do not have a natural food intake regulator so you will need to monitor them with portion control. Using a cheaper brand is a poor option at half the price. You will use twice as much and you will have to clean up larger amounts of waste in your yard. To allow for an accurate control of body weight and growth rate, this amount of food can be dispensed over 3 meals per day. After 5 months of age, the feeding regularity can be reduced to two meals per day with the commensurate increase in food quantity. The amount of food a Labrador puppy requires will increase then level out during first 14 months of their life. At months, their bone density is increasing and their growth plates are set. We do not recommend desexing you pup until at least 3 years of age. This allows for an appropriate development and supply of hormone which in turn produces proper bone, muscle and vital organ development. Table foods dispensed randomly to dogs are not nutritionally balanced. We do not offer our dogs table food at all. There will be no problems if you are feeding a puppy with a homemade diet but it should be prepared from prescribed recipes that are nutritionally complete and balanced. Diets consisting of an unplanned and indiscriminate mixture of human foods particularly including carbohydrates will likely result in obesity and even dietary-induced disease. When you Lab reaches 14months of age, it should be given an adult food that contains less energy and calcium. This will decrease the risk of obesity and orthopaedic conditions. And do not feed them coffee or tea as they can contain caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. These toxic substances can dangerously affect the heart and nervous system. Onions, garlic, raisins and grapes can be severely toxic in labradors. Raw meat is potential source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria for your puppy. Eggs yokes are an excellent source of protein. Raw eggs contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin a B vitamin. This can, in extreme cease, lead to skin and coat problems. Liver contains higher levels of protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins. Raw liver can be a source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria. Excessive amounts of liver can cause Vitamin A toxicity. Raw bone chewing will control tartar buildup on a pups teeth. However, bone chewing can cause intestinal blockages and perforations. Never use cooked bones. Commercial Puppy Foods Most commercial puppy foods are designated for small, medium, large and giant breeds. This designation can be found on the label. Puppies of medium sized breeds are less than '25 kg fully grown adult body weight'. A full grown and lean Labrador will usually weigh between 25kg and 45kg. We feed our dogs at the 'lower' level of the recommended range. The 'Hills Body Fat Index' is a very helpful body shape indicator. The same food as the bitch You should feed your new puppy with the same brand of food as the bitch received during lactation. From 2 weeks into pregnancy, our expectant mothers are fed 'Royal Canin Labrador Puppy' food. Introducing a new brand of food If you are wanting to introduce a new brand of food to your puppy, then blend it gradually with the existing brand in increasing amounts over 3 days. This should prevent food rejection and any kind of gastric upset. It is best to choose a diet designed for large breed puppies. Selected commercial feeds should contain a limited percentage of filler compounds. Pawlinglabs uses Royal Canin Labrador as our preferred option. Growing labradors Labrador pups have a very steep growth curve, and their total daily energy needs do increase as they grow. Calculate the amount of puppy food that will satisfy that need. The feeding guidelines on the commercial pet food label provides an estimated quantity of feed for several different ranges in body size. These instructions will give you an estimated starting point for the particular brand. Medium or large? Medium breeds should be transitioned to an adult diet by 12 months of age, while large breeds between 14 — 18 months of age. Mature female labradors are medium and weight approx kg. Mature males are large and weight approx kg. Their calcium and energy content should not exceed that level recommended by a registered nutritionalist. Sound skeletal development Sound skeletal development in labradors is produced by the interaction of genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors. The phase prior to weaning and the growth phase, up to 14 months are integral to sound skeletal structure. Don't take your young pup on extended distance walks and certainly not 'running' until at least 18mths of age. You must avoid stairs and slippery floors for the same reasons. Their growth plates are set at about mths of age. Feeding and Overfeeding Large breeds like Labradors are the most susceptible to skeletal disease. Feed consumption, nutrients balance and feeding methods influence our ability to produce sound skeletal development and eliminate skeletal disease. Appropriate food consumption and nutrition plays a critical role in bone development. Overfeeding will not increase or benefit the growth rate of young and growing labrador puppies. And it does not correlate with optimal adult size. However, it does increase the risk of skeletal abnormalities. The vast majority of skeletal disorders occur in large breeds including labradors and they are associated with consumption of table food and an excessive intake of a commercial food and supplementation. The large breeds like labradors are limited in their ability to cope with an excess of minerals such as calcium. The result of this over consumption is abnormal bone development and skeletal disorders. Nutritional management will be critical in the to prevention of bone and joint diseases. In most cases, skeletal disease can prevented by appropriate quantities of feed in a regulated diet with optimal nutrient levels. A complete and balanced commercial diet is essential. Dietary deficiencies will be of little concern if your labrador pup is fed with a complete and balanced commercial diet. Brands like Eukanuba and Royal Canin are specifically formulated for young, growing labradors. There is real potential for harm by over feeding and giving additional supplementation. Housing safety and activity levels Housing safety and activity levels are under the your influence. Nutrition is also under your control and it is the single most important factor affecting the development of the musculoskeletal system. Energy, protein, and calcium are the critical nutritional components affecting skeletal development. However, if they are given in excess, they will be detrimental to normal bone and joint growth. Most pet owners feed commercial dog food. These prepared diets are balanced and complete. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. Lab puppies are energetic little learners eager to run, swim, and fetch. Although active, they also tend to overeat and gulp down their food. They can benefit from the right growth formula to provide immune system support, healthy growth, weight management, and digestive care as they take on puppyhood. Royal Canin Labrador Retriever dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your pure breed puppy. Whether you have a Yellow Lab, Chocolate Lab, or Black Lab, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your Labrador Retriever puppy with specific nutrients to help them thrive. The unique donut-shaped kibble is specially designed to help your fast eater slow down and actually chew. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune system and keeps their body growing strong. Calcium and phosphorus support healthy bone structure, while a balanced energy content helps them maintain an ideal weight. Once your Lab puppy is over 15 months old, transition them to Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Adult dog food for precise nutrition into the adult years. Read more Promoting pet health and wellbeing Creating value for our entire ecosystem Committed to become certified carbon neutral by Cookie Settings. Made with real meat and no artificial colors or flavors how much should a lab eat? Allergies Labs can also have allergies. Some dogs may be allergic to wheat, macadamia nuts, etc. It can manifest as a runny nose, high volumes of shedding, rashes on the skin, and so on. Different dietary needs are crucial, especially if they display allergy symptoms. Avoid all types of human foods. You can give your lab puppy supplements You can get great quality adult dog food and puppy kibble from companies like Royal Canin Labrador Retriever, Blue Buffalo, Canidae Grain-Free, etc. Only adult food must be given to labrador retrievers who have crossed 1. Your puppy needs 4 small meals consisting of half a cup of food per meal till he is 2 months old. From 2 to 6 months, he needs 3 meals daily consisting of 1 cup of food per meal. From 6 months onwards , you can give your puppy 2 meals daily of 2 cups of dog food per meal. Is This A Problem? Yes, this is a major problem! Fat dogs are adorable but also extremely unhealthy. An adult labrador retriever should weigh at most pounds. Labs that are fatter than this stand at the risk of obesity, arthritis , and other lifelong diseases. Refrain from feeding your labrador too many dog treats. Onions and garlic: surprisingly, anything in the onion and garlic family is incredibly toxic to dogs. Meat with bones: if not chewed properly, sharp edges can rupture the throat, stomach lining, intestines, and other parts of the digestive tract. Other human foods and beverages to avoid giving your dog are alcohol, sugar, citric fruits, and anything with caffeine. Your labrador retriever should weigh between 55 to 70 pounds at full adulthood. Male labs are heavier than female labs, so they can fall on either side of the optimal weight spectrum. Some healthy treats for your labrador retriever are cut fruits and vegetables. Carrots, celery, cucumber, beetroot, apples, bananas, and berries strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, etc. Dogs also love peanut butter! Veggies dipped in peanut butter also make a great snack for your dog. This is entirely up to you as dog owners. If you have the time and patience to cook meals for your dog, go for it. Store-bought food is easier and is filled with the right nutritional requirements for your lab puppy. On the other hand, with the right recipe, home-cooked food works, too. What Should I Do? A dog growling at you when you go near his food bowl is most commonly a trauma response or a way to protect his food. We often see this with rescues. House training your lab puppy is equally important to avoid food aggression. Labrador Retrievers get piddly after their meals. Dog owners must take out their lab puppy as frequently as they eat sometimes even more often to let their energy out and adult labradors less frequently. A lab puppy needs a ton of exercise. The amount of kibble you should feed your Labrador puppy will vary depending on their age, weight, and activity level. A good rule of thumb is to start with cups of kibble daily and adjust as needed. Best Dog Food For Lab Puppies: The best dog foods for lab puppies include those that are high in protein and low in fillers. The food you should feed a black lab puppy is the same as for any other Labrador puppy. A chocolate lab puppy should be fed the same food as for any other Labrador puppy. A 2-year-old chocolate lab should eat about cups of kibble daily. You should stop feeding puppy food to your Labrador at around months of age. At this point, their growth plates will have closed, and they will no longer need the extra nutrients found in puppy food. Labradors live for years. They start to slow down around 7 and may develop some health problems in their senior years. You should also increase their exercise level. Lab breeders feed their dogs high-quality dog food specifically formulated for large-breed puppies. A lab puppy should drink about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. This amount may increase as they get older and more active. A labrador needs at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. This can be a combination of walking, running, and playing. Golden labs live for years. Chocolate labs live for years same like labs of any color. Labradors lose their baby teeth between 3 and 6 months of age. You can start to transition your puppy to eating twice a day at around 6 months of age. By the time they are 1 year old, they should eat only once daily. You should stop feeding your large breed puppy food at around 18 months of age. Why Are Labs So Hungry? Labradors are a very active breed of dog, and they need a lot of calories to fuel their energy levels. They are also prone to gaining weight, so keep a close eye on their food intake About The Author Shradha Kabra Shradha is a seasoned writer at Labradorandyou. Her experience as a pet owner and dog enthusiast drives her to create meticulously researched and fact-checked content, offering valuable insights on Labrador training, grooming, and health. Each article reflects Shradha's passion and dedication, enriched by personal experiences with her beloved Labradors, Tom, and Kurt. Whether exploring breed-specific training techniques or providing product reviews, Shradha ensures Labrador owners receive the most accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy information, aimed at enhancing their companions' health and happiness. The source of protein matters when considering a high-quality diet. FATS The rest of the diet should be made up of fats, carbs, and vitamins. Labs need to have a correct protein -to-fat ratio, where protein takes the lead. Dogs tend to convert fat into glucose, so this is an important source of energy. Dogs rely mostly on protein and fats, but carbs are necessary. That said, a low carb diet is best for puppies. However, you still need the right percentage of carbs, since this gives your dog the sensation of being full. These include starches, fibers, and sugars. Try to opt for more complex carbs like starchy grain and veggies because these are easier to digest. Your Lab puppy will thrive when his or her diet includes: Vitamin B12 especially during puppy development , Vitamins A and E, C, Vitamin D, phosphorus, and calcium, Potassium Each of these required vitamins and minerals contributes to a healthy, happy, and energetic puppy. They also help offset issues like obesity. Vitamins A and E are important because they help your dog burn calories and promote eye and skin health. Vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus, on the other hand, are part of a trifecta that works to strengthen teeth and bones. Potassium is a heart health-preserver. Labs with poor genetics are especially prone to orthopedic issues. Osteoarthritis and hip dysplasia are common health problems for this breed. Glucosamine, an amino-sugar, together with chondroitin sulfate, helps replace and support naturally degrading cartilage during old age. Recently,"grain-free" foods are being championed as a preferred and even high-quality form of dog food. That's, not the whole story. An investigation launched by the FDA revealed that there are potential links between a form of canine heart disease and grain-free foods. So far, researchers have provided an update to this researchers have provided an update to this research staring that the issue may not just be grain-free diets. Grain-free may be part of other trends knows as "BEG"- boutique companies. Puppy diets don't' need to be complicated. They also don't need to include ingredients that humans might enjoy. Enjoyment doesn't necessarily bring any nutritional value to your puppy's development. Keep it simple, using the guidelines for fats, proteins, and carbs above and don't shy away from food with grains in them. It's not their presence that's a problem it's often the ratio. There shouldn't be more carbs or grains than protein. Nor does including only legumes, seeds, lentils, or chickpeas as the primary ingredients make the food more superior. It's perfectly healthy to include complex carb sources like starchy rice and other grains. Grain-free isn't and shouldn't be a qualifying factor for your choice in puppy food. Feeding Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is dried, pelleted food that stores well is easy to eat, and is pre-formulated with everything your puppy needs to thrive and grow in his early developmental months. There are plenty of popular brands that don't measure up to the Snowy Pines standard. That's why it's so vital for you to learn how to read puppy food labels. Puppies should stick with "puppy stage" food, while adults should stick to bags marked "adults. Instead, your dog should have regular bowel movements, allowing them to absorb all the nutrients available. You should also keep in mind that caloric intake is calculated a little differently for puppies. Kibble diets are measured by how many calories the proteins, fats, and carbs represent for each gram. For puppies, this should be 3. Sticking to these ratios will help ensure your kibble choice is a healthy one. It's also important to note that kibble calories are often higher when compared to wet food. If it's high-quality wet food, it won't have as much fat to preserve it, which means fewer calories. You may have to supplement with dry food, especially if you're trying to keep the calories of carbs, proteins, and fats in the right per-gram ratio. How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies. The best food for Labrador puppies to consume in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to trained breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a Labrador puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. You can do this by mixing some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, you can reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed a Labrador puppy as they get older. In their four months living with you, and once they are weaned off milk, Labradors are likely to reach almost half their adult weight. They will reach their full adult weight by the time they are 6 to 7 months old. With this rapid growth can come some risks. Labradors can be susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia and joint abnormalities that can start in puppyhood. Once your Lab puppy hits 6 months, their growth begins to slow down. Once puppyhood is over, you can move to feeding your lab twice a day instead of 3 or 4 times. Labs are still very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen at around 15 months. This is because, being a breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your Labrador puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. It is also dangerous for a puppy to overeat. Labradors are large breeds, which means they need plenty of nutrients and calories as they grow to ensure they go from being active puppies to healthy adult dogs. Labrador puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, Labrador puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. The amount of food you give your Labrador is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult Labradors, around 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female Labradors, who tend to be around 5 to 10 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, to 1, calories per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your Labrador based on how calorically dense their food is. Adult Labradors should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs may benefit from exercise after eating: especially high energy Labs with a lot of energy to burn off. You should also try to give your Labrador a high quality food that is specially designed for large breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. For example, Labradors can be particularly susceptible to obesity. As a breed, they tend to be one of the most commonly obese dogs in Australia. This is due to several factors, including a genetic predisposition to unhealthy weight gain and a famously large appetite. However, plenty of Labs suffering from obesity are simply overfed and not getting enough exercise. Choosing a low carb diet is crucial to preventing obesity in your Labrador. If you are unsure about what you should feed your Labrador, you should always consult your vet. They will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any chronic health issues, and they will be able to create a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for many years to come. Wet food for Labradors is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. Chewing on dry food can be especially good for teething Labrador puppies. A raw diet can be a good option for your Labrador as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your Labrador, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. Different dog breeds will need different kinds of nutrient support as they go through the various stages of their life. It can also be easy to overestimate the amount of food your Labrador needs to stay fit and healthy — especially if they are skilled at begging! You need to make sure that your dog is eating the right amount of food for their breed, their size, and activity level. You should also avoid foods that, while delicious for humans, can be harmful or toxic for dogs. Foods like onions, nuts, alcohol, cooked bones, and artificial sweeteners are commonly included in dinners meant for humans, but can cause serious health issues for your Labrador. No matter how old your Lab is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.

The source of their popularity is no mystery. After all, Golden Retrievers are loyal, intelligent, and eager to please, all of which are desirable characteristics wrapped up in a single adorable package. If people are more interested in Golden Retriever-like dogs for whatever reason, they should know they have plenty of options. Beagle Beagles have excellent noses even by dog standards. That makes sense because they started as scent hounds specializing in hares and rabbits. Nowadays, Beagles are more popular as pets. However, some remain hunting dogs, while others have found new roles as detection dogs. The AKC says Beagles are particularly well-suited for the latter because they are small, unintimidating dogs, which is beneficial when working around people scared of dogs. Of course, Beagles have other upsides that make them well-suited for working as detection dogs. They are intelligent but easy to train. Furthermore, Beagles are good-natured, even-tempered creatures that are neither aggressive nor timid. Meanwhile, these dogs are also well-suited for being pets because they get along well with children, cats, and dogs. Exceptions exist, but exceptions are exceptions. Please note that Beagles are pack animals. That means they are prone to suffering from separation anxiety when they are on their own for too long. Physical movement is also necessary for preventing inactivity-induced weight gain in these dogs. For example, they have webbed feet. Similarly, they have water-resistant coats. With that said, these dogs are supposed to come in either brown, sedge, or deadgrass. Interested individuals can use that to distinguish them from their counterparts, though this is far from being a perfect method because there is still some color overlap between these retrievers. Moving on, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers came into existence in Maryland. They descend from a pair of St. Over time, dog breeders in Maryland and the surrounding region developed Chesapeake Bay Retrievers into working dogs of remarkable ability. The same characteristics that made them capable assistants to fishers and hunters enabled them to transition smoothly to being companions. Cocker Spaniel People use Cocker Spaniel to refer to two dog breeds. One is the American Cocker Spaniel. The other is the English Cocker Spaniel. As a result, people need to know the context to avoid mistaking one of these two dog breeds for the other. Chances are good interested individuals can guess the two dog breeds are close relatives. Over time, the two dog breeds have diverged, not least because people used one to hunt Eurasian woodcocks and the other to hunt American woodcocks. For instance, the latter tend to have a narrower head plus a narrower chest. Regardless, Cocker Spaniels have earned a fine reputation for being lively yet easy-going animals. They are also much smaller than Golden Retrievers. As a result, Cocker Spaniels are a good alternative for people concerned about their dogs being too big for their homes. However, they might be related to Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. That is because Flat-Coated Retrievers might be descendants of St. John Water Dogs. If true, that would make them distant cousins to Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. Besides this, these dogs are also descendants of Newfoundland dogs, Collies, and Setters. Appearance-wise, Flat-Coated Retrievers look like Golden Retrievers, which makes sense because the two are also related. Still, it is easy to distinguish them from their more popular counterparts in most cases. After all, the most common colors for Flat-Coated Retrievers are black, liver, and yellow. The last is seen in a negative light. Showsight says yellow Flat-Coated Retrievers are not allowed to compete in conformation, which reveals much about official attitudes while saying little. Personality-wise, Flat-Coated Retrievers are confident, outgoing dogs. Their energy means interested individuals need to provide them with plenty of physical movement and mental stimulation. Otherwise, Flat-Coated Retrievers will entertain themselves on their own, which tends to mean bad things for their surroundings. Goldendoodle Sometimes, people want a dog with the best characteristics from not one but two dog breeds. As a result, they seek out designer dogs, which are just mixed-breed dogs descended from those two dog breeds. Generally speaking, designer dogs are first-generation mixed-breed dogs. The lack of universal standards means interested individuals can find multi-generation mixed-breed dogs. That is useful if they are looking for a designer dog closer to one side of its ancestry than the other. Naturally, dog breeders use popular dog breeds for creating designer dogs more than their unpopular counterparts. Due to that, there are dozens and dozens of Golden Retriever-descended designer dogs. One of the best-known is the Goldendoodle , which makes sense because dog breeders created it using the popular Golden Retriever and the popular Poodle. Still, Golden Retrievers and Poodles share a lot of personality traits. That means Goldendoodles tend to be intelligent, obedient, and good-natured dogs that enjoy human company. Put together, these characteristics make them great family dogs. Irish Setter Like retrievers, setters are also gun dogs. Regardless, setters tend to have many of the same upsides as retrievers. Irish Setters stand as proof of that. For those curious, Irish Setters are good at taking instructions because of their intelligence and their obedience. Furthermore, they are affectionate towards humans, so much so that this characteristic is included in their breed standards. They might be too boisterous for the former. As for small animals, they are hunting dogs with hunting instincts, meaning they might go after those small animals. Still, socialization can work wonders. Energetic dogs need exercise. Similarly, intelligent dogs need stimulation. Irish Setters are energetic and intelligent, meaning they need both of these things. Without one or both of these things, well, bored dogs are also destructive dogs. On top of these, interested individuals should know Irish Setters are highly sociable animals. Separation anxiety is a common consequence. Kuvasz The Kuvasz looks a bit like the Golden Retriever. However, that is rather misleading because it is nowhere near as friendly as the latter. The two dog breeds do different things even if some of their modern responsibilities overlap. Historical nomads were often pastoralists because that enabled them to bring much of their food production with them. As such, chances are good the Hungarians had both livestock and livestock guardians when they settled in the Pannonian Basin. The Kuvasz descends from these dogs, though its roots might reach even further back because of preexisting dogs in the region breeding with Hungarian dogs. In any case, Dogtime says the Kuvasz is a challenging dog. First, it is intelligent but independent because its job as a livestock guardian required the ability to make decisions without human oversight. As a result, interested individuals need to know how to take charge. Second, it takes its role as a livestock guardian very seriously. For instance, there is a real risk that it will interpret children roughhousing as an attack, meaning its owner should always be present in such situations to prevent any potential complications. Bored dogs are often destructive dogs. A bored Kuvasz can be even more problematic than most dogs in this regard because it is so formidable. Labrador Retriever Labrador Retrievers trace their roots to Newfoundland in the s. By that point, the British had already broken Labrador off of Lower Canada before transferring it to Newfoundland, so it was included in the latter. Unsurprisingly, the ancestors of Labrador Retrievers were water dogs. Yes, there is more to Newfoundland than fishing. Even so, there can be no doubt the place focused on fishing before the collapse of its once-rich fisheries in the late 20th century. That change happened when ships introduced the ancestors of Labrador Retrievers to the United Kingdom where the British nobility started breeding them with British hunting dogs. The result is one of the most versatile and popular dog breeds on the planet. For instance, The Labrador Retriever has been the most popular dog breed in the United States for more than three decades, which is a record-breaking run. These dogs are smart enough and obedient enough to make good gundogs. Those same characteristics also make them well-suited for other roles such as pets, guide dogs, and therapy dogs. Instead, they tend to be Golden Retriever-like dogs that are smaller than actual Golden Retrievers. The most common way to produce them is by breeding Golden Retrievers with smaller dog breeds such as Miniature Poodles. As a result, these dogs tend to be similar to their namesakes. Interested individuals should still be careful when seeking out a Miniature Golden Retriever. They need to know exactly what they are getting because the lack of universal standards means the name Miniature Golden Retriever is more a marketing term than anything else. Moreover, they need to check whether they can trust the dog breed or not. Fortunately, The Spruce Pets and other sources can provide them with questions to ask and other methods to gauge their chosen candidates, thus making the task that much more manageable. For context, Nova Scotia sits southwest of Newfoundland, which in turn, sits southeast of Labrador. Despite this, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever stands out by being the smallest of the retrievers, though it is sometimes confused for a Miniature Golden Retriever. Other than that, it is notable because of its role in the hunt. In short, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is supposed to draw the curiosity of waterfowl through its shenanigans while its master waits nearby. When the prey animals approach, the hunter calls the dog back, scares the waterfowl into flying up, and then takes a shot. If successful, the dog then retrieves the prey animal, thus explaining its name as a tolling retriever. These dogs are similar to Golden Retrievers in many respects. That said, they are more cautious around strangers. Even so, exposing these dogs to new stimuli is critical. Partly, that is because they crave mental stimulation as much as they crave physical movement. However, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers also need socialization to prevent them from going after cats and other smaller animals. Henry Steinman Henry is an animal lover, pure and simple. He's been covering dogs and cats and a freelance and full-time writer since .Henry's been with Puppytoob and Kittentoob nearly his entire career. Currently he has 2 dogs, one cat, a turtle, and even a parakeet! He's obsessed with keeping his animals healthy, happy, and even entertained. Similar Posts. Sep 14, Share If you have ever been fortunate enough to own a Golden Retriever or been around one for any length of time, then you know they have the sweetest, most loving personality, which is why they are a popular dog breed. Not only are they kind and smart, but they are also a beautiful dog with their lovely golden coloring and soft, feathery hair. This article goes over eight breeds that will remind you of this popular dog yet may resonate more with your lifestyle and personality. They are known for their waterproof coat and are usually chocolate brown or sedge in color, with yellow-amber eyes. Known as world-class hunters, they go by the nickname, Chessies. They are a shorthaired dog with a soft undercoat and a harsh outer coat that sheds. Like the Golden, they are intelligent and high energy and do well when they have a job that includes plenty of exercise. Fun fact: This breed originated in the United States. They are friendly and make a great family pet because they have plenty of affection to give. They have a short double coat that is thick and water repellent. Unfortunately, Labs shed quite a bit, but twice-a-week brushing with occasional baths will help decrease unwanted hair around the house. Their favorite activity is swimming and retrieving, so they excel as hunting dogs too. They can be yellow, chocolate, or black in color. Fun fact: Labradors are the most common breed for guide dogs. They are calm, patient, and smart, which is why they have long been used as guardians for sheep. Great Pyrenees have a long, weatherproof coat that is white, or they can have markings of gray, reddish-brown, or tan. You may look at them and think that grooming will be a nightmare, but surprisingly, their coat is dirt and tangle resistant. Be forewarned, though, that they shed their coat in the spring, and it is a high amount of hair all at one time. Brushing them regularly will make the shedding phase easier. They are highly active and do well with a great deal of activity. Fun Fact: Great Pyrenees fossils have been found and dated between B. English Springer Spaniel Image Credit: Amorhunter, Pixabay These dogs are similar to Golden Retrievers because they have the same eyes that express such trust and love to their owners and family. This breed is also smart and high energy and has great manners. They are popular hunting dogs and highly trainable. You will find them with coats that can range in many different colors, from black and white to blue roan or tricolor, just to name a few. They are great with children and other animals, and they thrive on being part of the family. Playing games, walking , and swimming are favorite activities of the English Springer Spaniel. Leonberger Image Credit: sesheta, Pixabay This is another large breed that is friendly, gentle, and playful, which makes them a great companion for the whole family. They are gentle dogs who like to work, and excel when there is plenty of room to play and exercise. To keep the Leo happy, having them do agility training , pull a cart, or perform any type of activity that keeps them working is ideal. They are brown with a black facemask and kind eyes; their coat is medium-long and waterproof. The Leonberger will require frequent brushing to keep them looking neat in appearance and keep shedding at bay. They shed frequently, and twice a year, the shedding increases. Fun fact: Since they are sensitive and caring, they make great therapy dogs. Flat-Coated Retriever Image credit: Pixabay You will notice quite a few similar characteristics of the Flat-coated Retriever that resemble those of the Golden Retriever. They are a gundog with a happy and optimistic temperament. They also have leg and tail feathering, as well as a kindly expression that exudes intelligence. The biggest difference is they are dark-colored. These dogs are unique because they can retain their puppy behavior for life and will display mischievous antics. Daily exercise is a must for their well-being, and they do well with obedience and agility activities. Fortunately, they are eager to please and are friendly to everyone. Their moderate-length coat needs weekly care , and they shed more than a Golden. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are known for their affection, intelligence, and outgoing attitude. They have a similar look as the Golden but are more reddish in color and have white markings. Their favorite activities include swimming, hiking, camping, and anything to do with an outdoor adventure. Being high-energy dogs, they require extra time to keep them occupied. Weekly brushing will keep their coats looking shiny and the moderate and seasonal shedding from getting out of control. Fun fact: Trollers are great at communicating with their eyes, body language, and vocally. They are known for their affectionate nature and are built for hard work. Their coat is moderately long and a silky tri-color of black, white, and rust. They are gentle with children and will form a strong bond with their owners. Frequent shedding, especially twice per year, is part of having a double coat. Weekly brushing that increases to daily brushing during the shedding season will remove loose hair. They need moderate exercise and like outdoor activities. Many are involved with carting and drafting competitions. Fun fact: Bernese Mountains dogs are very strong and can pull up to 1, pounds. Conclusion There are many dogs similar to Golden Retrievers when it comes to their friendly and intelligent nature. These eight may not look exactly like the Golden nor act the same, but they exhibit a few of the great qualities that we love about the Golden. Golden Retriever owners would be quick to tell you that no other dog breed compares to their beloved Goldens. There are, however, other breeds who bear a slight resemblance to the beautiful Golden Retriever, and who are, without doubt, equally as special in their own way. What dogs look like Golden Retrievers? Being familiar with breeds routinely mistaken for a Golden Retriever will prevent you from making an embarrassing mistake. Appearance The Golden Retriever is a well-balanced, sturdy dog with a deep chest and strong, muscular body. The head is broad with a straight muzzle that is in direct proportion to the head size. The eyes should be round and brown, though dark brown is preferred. The ears are silky to the touch and hang down close to the cheeks. The face is exceptionally friendly in appearance and gives the impression of a smiling, happy dog. The long, thick, golden double coat truly sets this breed apart. Featuring moderate feathering on the ears, neck, underbody, and front legs and heavier feathering on the back legs, chest, and tail, the coat is dense and protective. The gracefully plumed tail is perhaps the most striking feature. The Golden Retriever is, in part, named for the deep gold coloration of the coat. Interestingly, several degrees of color saturation are common. Golden Retrievers are classified as being golden, light golden, or dark golden. Various shades within each group are acceptable. For more detailed information on Golden Retriever colors, be sure to read our guide to the different types of Golden Retrievers. Size Males weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and are, on average, between 23 and 24 inches tall at the shoulder. Female Golden Retrievers are slightly smaller and weigh approximately 55 to 65 pounds. They are graceful in movement, athletic, and energetic. Goldens are known to retain a puppy-like demeanor well into adulthood and easily charm all new acquaintances. Their gentle, easy-going, happy-go-lucky temperament is truly a hallmark of this eager-to-please, loyal breed. Breed enthusiasts are adamant that there is not another breed that rivals their beloved Goldens. Similarities Both Goldens and Irish Setters have kind faces, graceful bodies of similar build, and gorgeous, luxurious long coats with feathering on the legs, chest, ears, belly, and tail. Both breeds have a sweet, kind nature, are easy to train, and, as members of the sporting group, are superb gundogs. Differences Irish setters are chestnut or mahogany in color, are much darker than Golden Retrievers, and have a thinner coat. The ears are much longer and set lower on the head. Irish Setters are larger, standing at 25 to 27 inches tall and weighing between 60 and 70 pounds. Feathering is present but to a much lesser degree. Similarities Goldens and Labs are both retrieving breeds and are very similar in terms of body structure, size, temperament, and facial expression. They both tend to have large, dark eyes and rather prominent eyebrows which make the eyes and face particularly expressive. Both breeds are admired for their loyalty and friendly, people-pleasing temperaments. Differences Labs are usually slightly larger, come in three separate colors, and tend to be more active. The most notable difference is, of course, the coat length. Love Labs? Check out some of our other articles on Labs. Great Pyrenees Often described as majestic in appearance, the Great Pyrenees was originally bred to guard and defend flocks in the cold climate of the Pyrenees Mountains. Similarities The Great Pyrenees is similar to the Golden Retriever in that he too is a large dog with an incredibly thick, fluffy coat and gorgeous plumed tail. Differences The Great Pyrenees is much larger at 25 to 30 inches tall and weighing well above 85 pounds. Great Pyrenees are sturdier, stockier, and immensely strong. While both breeds are gentle and calm, the Great Pyrenees possesses a deeply rooted guarding instinct that is not found in Goldens. Similarities The medium-length, coppery coat bears a strong resemblance to that of a Golden. Tollers, as they are affectionately called, are similar in body type to Golden Retrievers with comparable facial features and ears of similar shape and carriage. Differences The Toller is quite a bit smaller than a Golden at only 35 to 50 pounds and 17 to 21 inches tall. White markings on the head, chest, feet, and tip of tail are usually present, and the eyes are almond-shaped rather than round. Kuvasz Another breed that might be mistaken for a very light-colored Golden Retriever is the Kuvasz, a flock guardian from Tibet. Similarities Kuvasz and Golden Retrievers both have a thick and luxurious coat that may or may not contain slight waves along the back, feathering on the legs, and a wonderfully plumed tail. They are both strong, agile, well proportioned, and have intelligent, kind faces with dark eyes. Differences The two major differences are size and coat. The Kuvasz tips the scales at 70 to pounds and has an average height of 28 inches. Their coats are pure white no exceptions and the skin has heavy gray or black pigmentation. Honorable Mentions Cocker Spaniels, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, and Curly-Coated Retrievers may also be confused with a Golden, but we felt that these breeds have enough striking features to easily be differentiated from the Golden Retriever. Related Posts:. There are many dogs that are similar to golden retrievers. But there is really no replacement for them. They are one of the most popular breeds and they are intelligent and friendly towards everyone including strangers. This makes them great for all-around duties such as being a loyal pet, service dog, and hunting dog. But suppose you are curious enough to know if there some dog breeds that are similar to golden retrievers, if you want to find out, we are happy to walk you through some of the details. King Charles Cavalier They are born and raised to be companion dogs. Cavaliers have a similar personality just like golden retrievers. They are highly adaptable, affectionate, gentle, intelligent. They are both great for being couch potatoes and active owners. Although they are unable to match the level of energy with the golden retriever, they still have a sporty nature drawing from their spaniel lineage. Cavaliers are protective of their families. They are also much smaller than goldens. But they are perfect and get along with children and other dogs. You may see them in rescues and shelters even though they are purebred. But hey, you can still adopt them if you want. They are considered one of the largest toy breeds. Due to their sporty nature, you can bring them to any outdoor activities such as running, hiking, and jogging. You can even try to enter them into dog sports like flyball, rally, and agility. One of their distinct characteristics is that they are the top tail-wagger. They are little but very cute enough to make you hug them. When it comes to training, they are easily and highly trainable dog breeds. They are willing to try any command you like them to do. Cavaliers need dog treats as their positive reinforcement. They are prone to hip dysplasia, episodic failing especially when they are old enough that their muscles are starting to get weak, and other common ailments to every dog breeds. Beagle Beagles are known for their small, hardy, and compact statures. They are also active dogs and active companions for adults and children. They are very friendly and loving towards their master and even to other family members and other animals as well. However, they may be stubborn and requires patience, and need some creative training techniques. These small dogs are known for their scent tracking skills. This is due to their being bred as a scenthound in games where they will follow the scent of rabbits and hare. Their scent receptors are about million which makes them better than other dog breeds. You can even see them in airports to detect some contrabands. But in personality, they are still somewhat similar. Because they are sweet, adorable, and gentle canines. Also, both of them are great family dogs. Beagles also need early socialization if you want them to become well-rounded dogs. However, there will be some instances that they will have some of these common health issues such as hip dysplasia which is common among dogs , cherry eye, epilepsy, beagle dwarfism, and others. Cocker Spaniels Cocker Spaniel is one of the most beloved dog breeds just like a golden retriever breed. They are originally bird dogs. The only hindrance is their grooming needs but for an experienced dog, owner hindrance is not a big deal. In addition, what makes this dog breed similar to golden retrievers is that they are highly adaptable and trainable making them a versatile canine. In fact, this breed is also among the popular breed in line with Labrador and Golden Retrievers. According to the AKC, they remain one of the top 15 registered breeds. Interestingly, Cocker Spaniel is the smallest dog in the sporting group. With their small stature, they are easy to bring and raise into a condo, apartment, or small home. They are easy to train and great for agility competitions. Also, Cokers are best for excellent therapy. Cocker Spaniel is typically loving, gentle, family companion, and trustworthy. This means that they are perfect for any dog owner and if you want something similar to golden retrievers, this is a great canine breed to have. But be warned that they are not used to harsh treatment that might lead to anxiety. These health concerns are hypothyroidism, allergies commonly food allergies , and canine hip dysplasia. They needed to have early socialization and training. Cocker Spaniels are also great for hunting games, tracking, and flyballs. Be sure that these breeds have adequate outdoor activities. As much as possible, keep them from getting bored. But these dogs resemble golden retrievers. Hence the name short hair. They are highly active dogs and known for their hunting-type games. Shorthaired Pointers have their distinct appearance — their bodies and heads are brown and speckled. That said, they require little maintenance but even so, you still need to brush them regularly. They may not be as friendly and outgoing as golden retrievers, but they are renowned as cuddlers when it comes to their master. In addition, GSPs are also great hunting dogs and they require outdoor activities most often. This is due to the muscular build that needs to get them working and flex whenever possible. Another similarity that GSP has with golden retrievers is that they both raised as a gundog and a retriever, usually the waterfowls. GSP is able to hunt rabbits, deers, and raccoons as well. German Shorthairs are also healthy canines, but again, they can still have some health conditions. What they need is a large space or yard with a fence. Much better if you live on farmland or the countryside. These dogs are great just like golden retrievers Pomeranians Pomeranians just like golden retrievers have double coats and if you are a fan of brushing, this is very similar when it comes to grooming needs as they both need extra intensive care maintenance. This breed is also an active dog. Their distinct appearance what makes them so adorable and fun-loving that you want to have him as a pet so badly. They are smaller than golden retrievers but they really match their personality to larger dogs. They bark a lot which is not a great idea if you want them in your apartment. The amount of activity is high with this breed. They needed lots of exercise and playtime. Poms are the best companion when you are going for a run or a jog. Plus they are great for family members but not for small children which can injure them accidentally. If golden retrievers have only two colors, with Pomeranians, they have a wide variety of solid colors. The colors the Poms have are white or cream, brown, black, red, orange, and blue. That said, their color gives luxury and both humans and even dogs have recognized their visual appeal. Pomeranians may suffer from certain health conditions and diseases but not all of them. Some of the conditions are commonly diagnosed even to other dog breeds. But if you want to have this breed, consider looking out for these common health issues that they may face. Hip Dysplasia, epilepsy, allergies typically food or skin allergies , dental problems. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever The strongest similarity among the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Golden Retriever is they both originally raised as a hunting dor and retriever dog usually retrieving waterfowls. This breed is also affectionate and highly adaptable which can be placed in an apartment unit. Another highly active dog that needs a lot of physical activities. Never let them become bored because it might lead to unwanted behaviors. The difference between them and the gold is that the gold is much popular while Nova Scotia is not. They are easy relatively easy to groom. Most of all, Nova Scotia is considered a rare breed and their population is only a few. Nova Scotia is the smallest breed among retrievers but their personalities are the same as Golden and Labrador. Versatile, intelligent, strong work ethic, and great for outdoor activities. Although they can be a bit difficult to please and has a dominant personality trait. Their health problems are also problems of every dog breeds. But generally, they are healthy if properly raised and maintained. However, there are still chances of potential disease and health concerns that can become a problem over time. So in preparation, better watch out for these: hip dysplasia, collie eye anomaly, and even deafness. Overall, they are somewhat similar to Golden because both are belonged to the retriever family and also because there is some resemblance in personality. Mini Golden Retriever You might see this coming. But Mini Golden Retrievers are very similar to Golden. Technically because half of the gene came from a golden and the other is from other dog breeds. These mini golden are cheerful, playful, and friendly. They are highly adaptable and thrive in most living conditions be it on an apartment or a large owned house. In addition, they are also great for being a family dog. Albeit their small stature, they require a lot of physical activities. They are great for any outdoor activities and even for playtime. When it comes to grooming needs, they require to be brushed at least three times a week even though they shed low. When it comes to training, they are easy to train and they can even enter int agility sports competition. One of the best ways to keep them attentive is to give the dog treats for positive reinforcement. So be careful when taking care of this lovely mini golden retriever. Final Thoughts Which one would you choose among the dogs we have listed? Although the listed dog breeds have the same personality or appearance, they are still different from Golden.

This mixed breed features the same ridge along their spines that the Rhodesian Ridgeback is known for. Moreover, they take on the cleverness and athleticism of their German Shepherd lineage. They are ideal companions for active families and individuals, especially those who like hiking. Although they are highly loving and affectionate, the Ridgeback Shepherd mix can be challenging for inexperienced owners, especially if this is their first dog. However, by understanding the histories of each of their parent breeds, we may still learn a lot about this designer breed. The German Shepherd Dog GSD is a multipurpose canine breed that can be trained to do a wide range of jobs, including herding, protecting, and tracking. This dog was created in Germany in the late s for the purpose of herding sheep and keeping predators away. According to pet fanciers, GSDs were also used as parent dogs to develop bear-hunting breeds. They were well-known throughout the world during World War I and regarded as one of the fiercest and most hard-working canines. Meanwhile, the powerful Rhodesian Ridgeback was developed in Africa. Because they were trained to hunt large wildlife, such as lions, Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a high prey drive. Today, the Rhodesian Shepherd mix is renowned for its devotion, intelligence, and compatibility with kids and other animals. The ridge of hair that runs up along the back of this dog is what makes it most recognizable. A genetic abnormality that enables hair follicles to grow in various directions is the cause of this peculiar ridge of fur. Additionally, the Ridgeback Shepherd mix is distinguished by its light or red wheaten-colored, short, glossy coats. But because of its German Shepherd genes, it may also sport a sable, liver, or even a black coat. In rare cases, there can also be Ridgeback Shepherd mixes with blue , panda , or even isabella coat colors. They also have a tail that is typically docked as well as long, floppy ears. Their head resembles a wedge shape, similar to that of the GSD. Their eyes are either dark or amber, while their nose is black or brown. Take note, however, that the appearance of Ridgeback Shepherds may vary from dog to dog. Currently, there are no breed standards for this hybrid dog; hence, their appearance will entirely depend on how genetics play out. Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd Mix Size and Weight Each parent breed is enormous on its own; therefore, when the two are crossed, the result is a reasonably large dog. Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mixes typically weigh around 64 to 95 pounds and stand between 24 and 27 inches tall. However, their final size can still be affected by several factors, such as gender and nutrition. In any case, you should still expect a huge dog. That said, it would be preferable if you have a large place for them to roam around if you are planning to add this mixed breed to your home. The German Shepherd Ridgeback mix makes a great companion dog since it is affectionate and loving with family members while being timid with strangers. Due to their high trainability, Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mixes are excellent candidates for agility training as well as obedience lessons. This breed gets along nicely with other dogs and pets when properly socialized. This range is slightly longer than the lifespan of the German Shepherd and about the same as the Rhodesian Ridgeback. Despite their relatively long life, the Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix does not have perfect health. In fact, like its parent breeds, it is also prone to some health conditions. The following are the health conditions common that may affect German Shepherd Rhodesian Ridgeback mixes: Hip Dysplasia: The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix breed, like the majority of large breeds, is typically vulnerable to hip dysplasia. This means that their femur and pelvis grow at different rates, resulting in a hip joint that is too small to fully encase the femur head. Elbow Dysplasia: Elbow dysplasia is characterized by a number of abnormalities in growth. The cartilage and surrounding structures around the elbow joint, in particular, formed abnormally for dogs with this condition. Eventually, this causes the elbow joint to develop degenerative arthritis, which results in discomfort and a loss of function. Degenerative Myelopathy: The Rhodesian Shepherd mix is susceptible to degenerative myelopathy , a hereditary neurological condition that usually affects dogs eight years of age or older. Dogs with this condition experience gradual muscular weakness and loss of coordination due to spinal cord damage. Aside from these, watch out for any indications of irritation or infection in certain body areas. Rhodesian Shepherds can also be prone to skin, ear, and eye infections. Lastly, check to see if the parent dogs have had the necessary genetic testing before buying a puppy from a breeder. These tests are used to detect heritable health issues in dogs. Below are some guidelines for taking care of a Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix. As a result, it needs 3 to 4 cups of dog food to maintain their energy levels throughout the day. You can give your dog specialized treats or vitamins to ensure that they get all the vitamins and supplements they require. In this manner, planning walks and bathroom breaks before and after meals will be simple. You can reduce their risk of bloat and keep them occupied by using lick mats or slow feeders to feed them. To maintain a healthy coat and skin, they will require occasional baths and weekly brushing. For those that inherited the standard short hair of their GSD parent, more frequent brushing is required. These dogs will also shed heavily twice a year, demanding daily brushing and frequent bathing. In addition, their teeth should be brushed frequently to prevent periodontal disease. Their nails should also be checked each month and clipped if necessary to avoid any nail from getting separated from the quick. Training and Exercise Training a Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix should be done as early as puppyhood. Due to their intelligence and physical build, this hybrid can be trained for dog sports, such as agility. To integrate well in the household, owners also need to focus on obedience training and socialization. By using positive reinforcement methods, their Ridgeback Shepherd will grow up to be a well-rounded pup. Meanwhile, In order to maintain their physical condition, they should take a daily walk. They will also enjoy running, hiking, and playing fetch with their owners. Watch the video below to see how the Rhodesian Shepherd mix can be easily trained: Liberty 5. The following are the initial costs you should take into account when owning a German Shepherd Rhodesian Ridgeback mix: Type of Expense. This alone can make them more expensive, as well as being crossed with a rare purebred dog. Some Rhodesian Shepherds inherit the Ridgeback. Although not all Rhodesian Shepherds will, some are lucky enough to inherit the classic Ridgeback strip. Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a strip of fur along their spine that goes in the opposite direction of their coat, which is not only a breed standard but a requirement for purebreds. Rhodesian Shepherds can weigh over 75 pounds. Rhodesian Shepherds are big dogs, with the average dog weighing around pounds. This makes them not suitable for most apartments and city living, especially with their exercise needs. Rhodesian Shepherds are hard workers. Just like their purebred counterparts, Rhodesian Shepherds are natural working dogs that need some purpose. This can be a real challenge for inexperienced dog handlers, so this mix is definitely not for everyone. However, as long as their exercise needs are met, Rhodesian Shepherds will repay you with affection and loyalty. The next best way is to study the temperaments of German Shepherds and Rhodesian Ridgebacks. German Shepherds are one of the most sought-after working dog breeds, having been around for centuries. Originally developed for herding, German Shepherds are extremely versatile dogs due to their high intelligence levels. They also require hours- no exaggeration-of exercise to keep them calm and well-mannered. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are, by contrast, calmer and more laid-back than German Shepherds, though they still have the instincts of a hunting dog. Originally bred for hunting and homestead protection, Rhodesian Ridgebacks can seem quite intimidating. Often reserved and even aloof with strangers, these large hunting dogs need to be socialized early to establish proper social etiquette. Except for their early years as puppies and young adults, Rhodesian Ridgebacks tend to be calm and quiet indoors. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Generally, Rhodesian Shepherds are great for active families, especially families that are outside daily. Families with children that enjoy playing and spending time with their dog are the ideal situation for Rhodesian Shepherds. As for cats and small animals, it depends on each individual dog. Some Rhodesian Shepherds have little to no prey drive, whereas others will chase your house cat into hiding on an hourly basis. Photo from: graceprotze Any mixed dog that has two purebred parents is called a hybrid dog or a designer dog. This is the case with the Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix as well. They were purposefully bred by breeders to get a dog that will have traits of both parent dogs — loyalty, affection, a working dog, and a good guard dog. They only accept purebred dogs, which means you can register their parents. You will realize you have an amazing, high-energy designer dog breed just as beautiful and amazing as any purebred dog. But, if you want to know if this dog is suitable for first-time dog owners, the answer is — no, not really. You have to have the experience to know how to handle a dog of this size, strength, and strong prey drive. Dogs that are very different in size can cause a lot of problems during the birthing process. This is, of course, the case when the female is smaller than the male. The size of the puppies can cause a lot of problems for the female, and it can cause various complications during and after the birthing process. Both parent breeds are of similar weight and height. Rhodesian Ridgeback This is a unique breed of dog for a very interesting reason. They have a ridge of hair that grows in the opposite direction from the other hair. This ridge is on the back; hence, the name, Ridgeback. The name, Rhodesian, comes from an old name for Zimbabwe — a country in Africa where these dogs originated from. Rhodesians are athletic dogs that can weigh more than 80 pounds , and grow up to 27 inches tall. This is a large breed that was used for hunting lions. But, they were never actually used to kill lions — just chase them and help people during the hunt. As you can see, this dog needs to have an active lifestyle. Rhodesian Ridgebacks can come in all kinds of shades of wheaten coat color. They can also have either a black- or a brown-colored nose. Today, of course, people do not use these lovely dogs as lion hunters. They are amazing family dogs — affectionate, and good with other dogs and pets. Although Rhodesians can live anywhere, it would be perfect to have a large yard in order for this dog to truly shine. They have proved themselves to be amazing police dogs, guards, protective dogs, and amazing family pets. Once bred as herding dogs, today, they are mostly used as watchdogs and guards. Of course, this large dog is also an amazing family pet that goes great with children and all other family members. They can weigh around 90 pounds , and grow up to 26 inches tall. And, they also have unique looks. Everyone knows what a GSD looks like. They have a bushy, low-set tail, a long muzzle, and pointy ears. But, maybe the most distinguishable trait is their coat color. Apart from the most popular black and tan GSD, there are other coat colors — liver GSD, silver, sable, white, and even an albino. These dogs also need plenty of exercise to satisfy their high energy levels. It is a great family dog, but just like the Rhodesian Ridgeback, it would be ideal to have a yard for this big dog. What Do They Look Like? Photo from: graceprotze We saw the main traits of both dog parents, from weight to coat colors, and we know the looks of both parent dog breeds, but what about the Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix? What will their looks be like? Are they going to have the ridge or will they completely have the German Shepherd coat type? Well, these and other questions regarding physical traits are harder to predict. We already mentioned that, and the reason is because of the great difference in the looks of the parent breeds. From the head to the general body type, here is what you can expect from your Rhodesian Shepherd puppies. This means they will be large dogs that can weigh from 80 to 95 pounds, and they can grow up to 27 inches tall. Of course, some puppies can grow to be much smaller or larger than the average size, but this is a common thing with all dogs, not just crossbred dogs. Genes play a vital role, but external factors, such as diet and activity play a certain role as well. Bottom line… we can say with certainty that you will have a big dog that will need a lot of kibbles to keep its stomach full, and it will need a lot of space to stretch its legs. Head The Rhodesian Ridgeback has the looks of a true hunting dog — it has floppy ears and a medium-length muzzle, with a broad and flat skull between its ears. On the other hand, a German Shepherd has a narrower and longer head, with a long muzzle and pointy ears. The Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix will have a head that is most of the time an equal blend of both head types. Some puppies can inherit the broader skull of the Rhodesians while others can inherit the typical GSD skull. Then again, there is a difference between a male and female GSD s head shape, where a male has a distinguishably masculine skull. Some can also inherit pointy ears, and others… floppy ears. Because both parent dogs have brown to dark brown eyes, their mixed-breed offspring will also have dark-colored eyes. All of this means that it is impossible to know exactly what Rhodesian Shepherd puppies will look like. Coat Type This is yet another physical trait that can go in different ways. But, this time, there are fewer possibilities — a new puppy can either have: A double coat type A single coat type The single coat type comes from the Ridgeback side, and the double coat type from the GSD. The new pup can also have: A short coat A medium-length coat The medium-length coat comes from the GSD side, but there are long-haired GSDs , so there is a possibility for a long-haired Rhodesian GSD, too, although it has to be said that this happens very rarely. Grooming Even though the German Shepherd side can give the mixed dog a double coat of medium length, grooming is not a problem. Both types of coat require weekly grooming with a regular brush. But, GSDs do shed as well as Rhodesians, especially during the shedding seasons, which are in fall and spring. It simply means that you will have to spend more time doing it to get rid of the hair and remove the tangles. Coat Color The color depends on the color of the two dogs used for crossbreeding. They will be a dark shade of brown or dark red. Because there are many coat colors of the GSD, we can only tell you what some of the possibilities are for the Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix coat colors: Brown. Rhodesian Shepherds may not be hypoallergenic The parents of this breed have different coats. This makes it difficult for one to predict if the mix will shed heavily or not. Because of this uncertainty, it may not be suitable for allergic sufferers. They are not a good first-time dog Though the mix is intelligent and learns easily, it can be a handful like its parents. With an independent streak and a tendency towards dominant behavior, it may sometimes be unwilling to obey. The owner should not be inexperienced or timid, but firm and knowledgeable. Exercise and work are needed for both parents and the offspring, a situation that may tire out an introvert. They make good guard dogs and watchdogs The qualities it inherits from both parents make it an asset in security. It plays the role of both a guard dog and a watchdog. It is not aggressive unless badly trained but will protect its family when needed. Watch out for separation anxiety Many owners make the mistake of assuming this mix would love being alone because of its independent spirit. However, just like its parents, it is used to company. Being alone can trigger separation anxiety which leads to destructive behaviors. Because there are no Kennel standards or similarities in the looks of the parents, the puppies will grow to exhibit different physical characteristics. Genetics plays a major role here. Some of these dogs may look more like the German Shepherd, others will favor the Rhodesian Ridgeback. Some may combine both features to create an unusual look. Therefore, you may find some with the erect ears of the German Shepherd or the floppy ones of the Rhodesian Ridgeback. Most get the ridge on their backs, but the face usually is that of the German Shepherd. Size The Rhodesian Shepherd mix is a medium to large dog breed like its parents. It weighs between 64 to 95 pounds and grows up to 27 inches. It could either be short and shiny like the Rhodesian Ridgeback or a medium, dense double coat like the German Shepherd. Coat colors include gray, black, liver, and gold. There could be some differences in the behaviors of every individual. Also, factors like good training and the right environment influences personality. That being said, there are some traits you can expect from any member of this mixed breed. The first common trait is loyalty. This hybrid looks out for its family and is devoted to them. Loyalty is one attribute that makes it a good guard dog and watchdog, and it would defend its family to the last. Not surprisingly, it is also protective. Another good guard dog quality is its wariness towards strangers. Like its parents, the mix is friendly only towards members of its family or those it knows well. With strangers, it is aloof. Socialization stops it from developing aggression towards strangers, but wariness is essential for its guard duty. It is courageous as well, a trait gotten from both parents. The Ridgeback hunted lions and the German Shepherd protected flocks against wolves. You can count on this Rhodesian Shepherd to face danger without hesitation. As highly intelligent as its parents, expect this mix to understand and respond to commands with ease. You have to be patient while training this breed. The Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix is a loyal and gentle companion, friendly with its family and loving with those it knows. This mix can defend its family with its life and stay faithful throughout its life. It is also good with kids, especially when socialized early. However, its large size makes it unsuitable for toddlers, so it is more ideal to have them in a house with older kids who can respect a dog. To get this hybrid to get along well with other dogs and pets, it should be socialized from an early age. An adult with no prior experience in living with other animals may not fit in well. The male unneutered dog could also be aggressive towards other males. With smaller pets, its high prey drive could get in the way. This is why socialization is vital if you want a home with multiple dogs and pets. Because of its novelty and rareness, it is hard to determine the average cost of this breed, or where to find it. For the price, the cost of shopping the parents could give you an idea of what to budget. Cost varies, though, as the breeder could charge more or lesser than our estimate. Regardless of the cost, the breeder should be reputable. Ensure you get a pup with no underlying medical conditions or undesirable behaviors. Some breeders may offer advice and ask questions of their own. Do not buy a puppy based on a guarantee alone. Another option is adoption, though with this breed it could be harder than shopping. That said, you might stumble on a Rhodesian Shepherd in a rescue shelter specializing in German Shepherds or Rhodesian Ridgebacks. Adoption is cheaper and more canvassed for, but you also should ask questions. Some abandoned dogs suffer trauma from abuse or a medical condition that made the previous owner abandon it. As such, it requires a rich kibble fit for its size. While some dogs can manage a poor diet, this hybrid would have health problems if fed a subpar meal. Keep it hydrated too by providing enough water. Supplements like fish oil are also good for its system. Glucosamine and chondroitin are some other supplements that would help strengthen its bones. Like its parents, it can get overweight. So you should regularise its meal and stop it from free feeding. Human food and treats should be minimal as those can make a dog gain weight. You could keep it on a raw meal or give it a blend of dry and wet dog food. Dry food is usually preferred as the main meal, then wet food adds variety. Consult a veterinarian or nutritionist to know what to feed your pup. Another rule of thumb is to know the factors that influence feeding. Like other dog breeds, do not feed a Rhodesian Shepherd puppy with the same meal or ratio that you would an adult. The same applies to seniors. That is the age factor. Size is another, and you should also determine the energy level of your mix while establishing its diet. A bored and restless Rhodesian Shepherd is a recipe for destruction. It loves the outdoors and should be taken outside numerous times a day. This is a win for you if your hobbies involve stepping out of the house, not board games and binge-watching series. It is advisable to keep your mixed dog on a leash, at least till it is well trained to obey a recall command. Its high prey drive may push it to dive after a smaller animal. It needs at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. Sometimes it could get to an hour or more, depending on your dog. Some activities fit for the Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix include walking, running, hiking, swimming, playtime at a dog park, or games like fetch. These borders on the physical. Age and size also determine how much exercise this crossbreed needs. It is advisable to start small with a puppy and stick to light activities. As for size, an obese dog would need a different exercise requirement than its slimmer counterpart. For this Rhodesian Shepherd, training is both easy and frustrating. It is easy because of its intelligence, but frustrating due to its stubbornness. The best way to start training is when your pooch is still a puppy—if you adopted it as an adult, you would have a different set of challenges. Ensure your pup knows its place in the human-dog relationship and acknowledges you as the leader. Only then would you make headway with this stubborn breed. As usual, obedience training and socialization are a must. Let your pet learn simple commands and respond to them. It should also get to meet new people and visit foreign places. For this breed, training has to be consistent, not random. This mixed breed is sensitive to harsh words, yelling, and punitive methods—so you must keep your cool and be patient while training. Use treats, praises, pats on the back, and other forms of motivation to encourage it. Also Read:. It seems easy to fall in love. These dogs have long hair that covers most of their body, but it also has a thick coat on top and short fur around its face which gives an interesting variety in appearance. A lot goes on during puppyhood — most specifically in terms of how big your dog gets. If this sounds like something up your dog then make sure to be more familiar with the adoption of this breed. The average lifespan for this animal ranges from 14 years old, which makes them one of the longest-living breeds on earth. A lot of people feel intimidated when they first meet a large, powerful dog. They are often dogs who do not know their own power and need some time to get used to; just remember this about them: they can also surprise you with how well-behaved these big breeds really are. Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd Mix can come in all sorts of different shades, like Fawns or sables with black spots on them to mix it up even more. They have easygoing personalities and are generally affectionate and sweet-natured. They usually take a lot of time to warm up to a new person and require training before they are ready to handle a household. The Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd Mix is a tough breed and can be hard on themselves and others. They need a strong-willed owner. In training a Ridgeback, you must start early. They can be extremely stubborn and may resist a lot of your training. Ridgebacks are excellent guard dogs. They are extremely loyal, have little tolerance for chaos and noise, and enjoy a secure environment. In this situation, the joints can be damaged and also can become the reason for pain in the body. These are some of the diseases that this breed bears, and there are also genetic health issues that would influence their health, so it is advisable to check the dog before taking it. Deaf and bare feet are sometimes visible in this breed. Dermoid sinuses can be treated surgically and commonly are not lethal. Although, until now none of no specific treatment has been discovered for the deaf you can avoid the underlying hygiene problems which could be the reason for this. With age, they will not usually have as many complications as young dogs. It is therefore vital that you get them regularly. So the training requires dedicated work and diligence. Be sure that you must be strong when the dog knows what you want to know. The best thing about your young Rhodesian Ridgeback becomes social training from a child and how other dogs and people are engaged. Social education has trained education and tree training and improvements are all areas of the usual household requirements. As a very dynamic and muscular dog, the German Shepherd Rhodesian Ridgeback will be useful for 30 to 90 regular minutes of everyday workout. You can also add other outdoor activities such as long walks, mountain hiking, and running in a large yard. Raw foods with twisted bones, firm flesh, and a fine quantity of ingredients are the best for this type. In case, if raw food is expensive and difficult to maintain a diet, look for fine standard dog food that will fulfill its nutritional needs. As this breed has been one of the athletic breeds, it will demand more than the normal quantity of water intake on a regular basis. The combination of food varieties such as dry and wet food could be a good choice to be included in the diet chart. Whether he is training for competitions or just enjoying a walk around the neighborhood, he will enjoy the experience. However, you should always be careful not to neglect your dog. Make sure that he or she has proper space and training so that you and your dog can share a happy life together. This breed is an incredibly satisfying dog and one that will make sure to keep you active- be sure that you are completely set to be a good keeper of this breed. Post navigation. Males are expected to be about .Females are slightly smaller at approximately 24 inches and about 60 pounds. The appearance will depend on which parent it takes after. From the Ridgeback parent, they could take various shades of wheaten although the lighter varieties are less common. On the other hand, German Shepherds come in a wide variety of coat colors. GSDs also come in rare colors like blue , blonde , and panda. Grooming Rhodesian Ridgeback — German Shepherd mixes that takes their coat after the Ridgeback parent will be fairly easy to groom. They will need occasional baths and weekly brushing to keep their coat and skin healthy. On the other hand, offspring that take after the GSD parent will require brushing several times a week. They will also shed profusely twice a year. During those times, they will require daily brushing and more frequent baths. Their teeth should be brushed frequently to avoid periodontal diseases. Strength The GSD-Rhodesian Ridgeback cross does not only have a strong, solidly built body but also a powerful bite, which it inherits from both parents. Speed German Shepherds run fast and, in fact, can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are slower at 25 miles per hour. Nevertheless, Rhodesian Ridgeback — German Shepherd mixes are expected to run fast, show incredible agility, and have remarkable stamina. For working dogs, these traits can be very useful. For household companions, however, this needs to be addressed through exercise. They love to run, play with their humans, and go on long walks. The more opportunities they have to burn off their excess energy, the happier and healthier they will be. Apart from physical exercise, these dogs need mental stimulation. They enjoy puzzle games as well as regular training sessions. Additionally, they do well in canine sports like flyball , rally, and agility. They typically need fewer than 5 exposures to learn something new. On the other hand, Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not place very highly in the dog intelligence ranking. Nevertheless, their willingness to learn new things and eagerness to please their humans make training them enjoyable and fulfilling. Temperament The Rhodesian Ridgeback — German Shepherd cross is a protective dog that is ever vigilant of potential threats. They are wary of unfamiliar people but may welcome their presence once they are accepted by the rest of the family. Despite their protective nature, these mutts are very affectionate. Early socialization and proper handling also make them excellent companions for the entire family , including young kids and other animals. Health Like other large breeds, the GSD — Rhodesian Ridgeback mix can be prone to bone and joint issues like hip and elbow dysplasia. The best way to avoid this is to screen both parents before mating. Other than that, you should avoid jumping and running on uneven surfaces while their bones are still developing. Other health issues this cross can inherit are poor thyroid function from the Ridgeback and bloat from the GSD. Ridgebacks typically live between 10 and 12 years while the expected lifespan of German Shepherds of between 7 to 14 years. Nevertheless, dogs often surpass their expected lifespans. With a high-quality diet, ample exercise, and regular access to veterinary care, a happy Rhodesian Ridgeback-German Shepherd mix can easily live well beyond 10 years old. You might find a breeder mating these two breeds in pursuit of a designer working dog. Each of these two breeds is more valuable as purebreds. For this reason, their respective breeders find no motivation in crossing the two. Final Thoughts The German Shepherd Rhodesian Ridgeback mix is a large dog with an incredible work ethic as well as the courage and stamina unique to hunting dogs. This cross needs plenty of opportunities to exercise but can also switch off to relax. Additionally, they are adaptable, trainable, and protective of their home and family. The Rhodesian Ridgeback was developed in southern Africa to hunt lions. German Shepherds are also large, athletic dogs that were originally bred for herding and protection work. Together, these two breeds make excellent working dogs with strong hunting instincts and loyalty to their family. While the exact origins of this mix are unknown, it is thought that this cross was first developed in the United States in the s. Today, this mixed breed is still primarily a working dog, but they can also make exceptional family pets. If you are looking for a smart, protective, and active companion, this may be the perfect breed for you. The most distinctive feature of this breed is the ridge of hair running along its back in the opposite direction to the rest of its fur. This ridge is caused by a genetic mutation that causes the hair follicles to grow in different directions. Ridgebacks Shepherd mixes are also known for their short, shiny coats, which are either light wheaten or red wheaten in color. They have long, floppy ears and a tail that is usually docked. While males typically weigh more than females, the average weight of this mixed breed is between 65 and pounds. The average height is around 24 — 27 inches. The shape of their head is similar to the German Shepherd, which is typically wedged-shaped. Their nose is either black or brown and their eyes are either dark or amber in color. This hybrid is an excellent companion dog who is loving and affectionate with family members but still reserved around strangers. This breed is also highly trainable, making them an ideal candidate for obedience training and even agility courses. With proper socialization, this breed gets along well with other dogs and pets. These dogs excel in obedience training and respond well to positive reinforcement methods such as treats and praise. They need consistent training from a firm, experienced owner. These dogs are not suitable for first-time owners or those who are not willing to put in the time and effort required to train them properly. This mix is an active breed that needs plenty of exercise. A daily walk is a minimum, and they will also enjoy hiking, running, and playing fetch. This breed is not suited for life in an apartment or small home; they need a yard where they can run and explore. Socialization is also important for this breed, as they can be suspicious of strangers if not properly introduced to them from an early age. With proper training and socialization, the Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix can be a loving, loyal companion. Rhodesian Shepherd — Are they Aggressive? The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd Mix is a large, powerful dog that was originally bred for hunting. However, this aggressive streak can also make them difficult to handle, and they are not recommended for first-time dog owners. As a loyal and protective dog, they can be very suspicious of strangers. If not properly socialized, they may become aggressive toward people and other animals. In addition, this mix is a high-energy dog that needs plenty of exercise. Without an outlet for their energy, they may become destructive or even aggressive. For these reasons, it is important to consider whether or not this mixed breed is the right breed for you before making a commitment. This high-energy breed needs at least an hour of exercise every day. A Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd Mix is the perfect companion for runs, hikes, and any other outdoor activity you can think of. Remember, this breed was originally bred to hunt lions, so they have plenty of stamina. In addition to their daily walk or run, this mixed breed will also appreciate some playtime in the yard. Mental Stimulation The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix is an intelligent breed that requires regular mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. One way to do this is to give them puzzle toys filled with treats, which will keep them occupied and mentally challenged. You can also vary their walking route and introduce new playthings regularly to keep them from becoming restless. With a little effort, you can ensure that your Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix stays happy and mentally stimulated. They need to be groomed on a regular basis. The Ridgeback Shepherd is not a hypoallergenic breed, so they do shed relatively frequently. As a result, they will require daily brushing in order to keep their coat healthy and free of tangles. They should also be bathed on a monthly basis, using a mild shampoo to avoid drying out their skin. With proper grooming, this mix will be a handsome and healthy dog. As a result, they inherit many of the same health conditions as their parent breeds. However, there are steps that owners can take to help their dogs stay healthy. For example, regular exercise and a healthy diet can help to prevent obesity, which is a major risk factor for many health problems. Additionally, keeping up with routine vaccinations and vet check-ups can help to catch any potential health problems early on. With proper care, Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherds can enjoy long, happy lives. Rhodesian Shepherd — What should they eat? As any pet owner knows, what you feed your animal companion can have a big impact on their health and well-being. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, there are a few general guidelines that can help you make the best choice for your dog. This will help to ensure that your dog is getting the nutrients they need without ingesting too much filler material. Focusing on their nutrition will help to avoid problems such as obesity and joint problems. By following these guidelines, you can help your Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix stay healthy and happy for years to come. Rhodesian Shepherd — Dog Friendly? The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix is a large, powerful dog with a strong prey drive. This can make them difficult to socialize with other dogs and can also make them a danger to smaller pets. However, with patience and training, many Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherds can learn to live peacefully with other dogs and animals. Rhodesian Shepherd — Child Friendly? This is because they are loyal, protective, and patient. As a result, young children should always be supervised when around a Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd. Rhodesian Shepherd — Do they Drool? One of the less desirable traits of this breed is their tendency to drool. While all dogs produce saliva, some breeds are more prone to slobbering and drooling than others. The reason for these drooling tendencies is the shape of their skull and muzzle. This structure allows more saliva to pool in their mouth, which leads to drooling. In addition, this breed is also known for being very food-motivated, which can further contribute to drooling behavior. If you are considering adding a Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd to your family, be prepared to deal with some drool. However, regular grooming and cleaning can help to minimize the mess. Rhodesian Shepherd — Weather They can be sensitive to weather changes. While all dogs can be affected by extreme weather conditions, some breeds are more prone to problems than others. The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd is one of those breeds. This type of coat does not provide much insulation, making the dog more susceptible to cold weather. In addition, this breed is also known for being very active. As a result, they may have difficulty regulating their body temperature in hot weather. If you are considering adding this mixed breed to your family, be prepared to deal with some weather-related issues. Life Expectancy The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd is a mixed breed of dog with an average life expectancy of 14 years. This lifespan is about average for most dogs, but it is on the shorter end for large breeds. Large breeds are more likely to experience health problems and joint issues than smaller breeds. As a result, they often do not live as long as smaller dogs. The reason for this lack of AKC recognition is the mixed nature of the breed. Puppy Prices Prices for Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd puppies can vary depending on the breeder and the individual puppy. This price range is about average for most mixed-breed puppies. This unique and amazing dog is sure to make a great addition to your family. And as always, thanks for reading! Facial features tend to resemble the GSD, while the body takes on Ridgeback qualities. You can expect this mix to have a shorter coat than a GSD, and a less muscular body. Colors will often include shades of brown, and the sable or dark GSD coloration. These mixes are fortunately not heavy shedders. Brushing them once per week is often enough. Lifespan: up to 14 years on average. Prone to obesity. This mix can be great for families, and can get along well with kids. These high-energy dogs will form close bonds with their owners. They're lively, intelligent, nosey, friendly, and brave. An hour of daily exercise at minimum is recommended to help curb destructive behaviors. These dogs were officially named Rhodesian Ridgebacks in in Zimbabwe. The Rhodesian Ridgeback breed is known for its distinguishing feature — the ridge of hair running along its back. This ridge stands out as it is composed of hair that is growing backwards. An adult Rhodesian Ridgeback can grow up to 27 inches tall, and can weigh up to 80 pounds, while its female counterpart can grow up to 26 inches tall and can weigh up to 71 pounds. The Rhodesian Ridgeback can be aloof to strangers but is very loyal to its owner. It is intelligent and teachable. When it comes to health, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are at high risk of developing dermoid sinus, degenerative myelopathy a neurological condition affecting the spine , hypothyroid, and gastric dilatation-volvulus. Dermoid sinus is a condition that can be screened for at birth. Affected puppies can be saved through a surgical operation where the affected dermoid sinus is removed. The life expectancy of Rhodesian Ridgebacks is roughly 10 years. Sadly, he passed away a few years ago at the age of .Big thank you to his owner Erik for letting us post this great picture! Originally used as a working dog and a herding dog, German Shepherds are now often seen with the police, patrolling malls and areas where security is of utmost protection. This breed is known for its handsome and well-built features. It is hardworking, fearless, obedient, and trainable according to dogster. If you are energetic with an active outdoor lifestyle, this is the pet for you. An adult German Shepherd can grow up to 25 inches or .It has a thick coat that sheds heavily throughout the year, and blows its coat twice per year. Regular brushing will be really important with GSDs, and is thankfully all you need to do for coat maintenance for the most part. When it comes to health, GSDs are at high risk of developing elbow and hip dysplasia, and skin allergies. German Shepherd can live up to 12 years on average. Although this a relatively well-known breed, it is not yet popular because there are very few breeders who focus solely on producing Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mixes. For more information on the differences between these two breeds, feel free to read our comparison article: Rhodesian Ridgeback vs German Shepherd. It stands like it is ready to fight at all times! Its face and head will more so resemble that of the GSD, but their backs will have the famous Ridgeback line. These are obvious signs to look out for when trying to identify a Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix. The average lifespan of this mix is up to 14 years according to shopforyourcause. Since GSDs and Rhodesian Ridgebacks are both known for their overall strength, power, and love of active lifestyles, we can expect the mix to be quite similar in this regard. Although German Shepherds are used extensively in police work , the same cannot be said for these mixes — these are strictly house pets. In terms of exercise, these dogs love running outdoors and playing with other dogs. Just like its parent GSD, it is best to allow a Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix to play outdoors in order to curb its aggressive behavior and excessive energy levels. Keeping it locked up inside all day can be very stressful for this breed — it is highly recommended to get these dogs at least an hour of exercise every day. Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd Mix Health One of the common health problems that medium to large dogs face is dysplasia, and the Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix is no different. It is at high risk of developing both hip and elbow dysplasia. Before accepting a puppy from your breeder, verify if the parents have gone through the required genetic testing designed to identify dogs that could potentially pass on heritable health issues to the puppies. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is also prone to having dermoid sinus — so this mixed breed will also be at risk of developing the condition. Always have your puppy checked every six months to correct possible dermoid conditions. Both breeds are also susceptible to skin, ear, and eye infections — try your best to be on the lookout for any signs of irritation or infection on these body parts. If your pup continually scratches any of these areas, you may need to have it checked out by your veterinarian. Tip: Great breeders always ensure that they are breeding from healthy parents. They should have the proper documentation proving that their breeding dogs are healthy, and without genetic conditions that can affect the cross-breeds. Feel free to check out this YouTube video from Dogs Naturally Magazine for tutorials on how to prepare a raw diet for your dog. If preparing a raw diet is simply not feasible for you, you can still purchase high-quality commercial dog food that will be relatively healthy for your dog. You can also ask your vet for any advice regarding ideal brands for Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd Mixes. You should also be careful when giving your dog a treat during training — the Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix can easily become obese like its parents. Despite being active all day, eating too much sugary food can lead to high sugar levels and their bodies might not be able to break it down naturally. Their diets should ideally be high in fish oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin supplements to help lower the risk of joint problems like hip and elbow dysplasia. The Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix is a large breed that may not be ideal for first-time dog owners because of its sheer size and strength. These dogs are best for people who are looking for a friend that they can run with and take on hikes, since this breed thrives on vigorous amounts of daily activity. Despite this, one of the the best traits Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mixes have is the ability to just chill out and remain pretty calm when around its owners. They will absolutely love spending time with their families. This dog needs constant attention, an energetic owner, and mental distractions from time to time. Leaving a Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix on its own for too long may not be the best idea since these dogs can be prone to separation anxiety. Unfortunately, when this happens, these dogs can be prone to destructive behaviors. You should also bath your Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix at least once per month. There is no need to give it a daily bath because it will dry its skin out. Most Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mixes have thin coats so there is no need to brush them too often. Brush it once a week to give it a shinier and softer look. In terms of physical activity, this hunting and guarding dog loves moving around! Its parents are active dogs so expect the cross-breed to be very active as well, loving long hikes and runs. Aim for one hour of activity per day. You can also run with your Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix in the morning. It will help your dog child release some energy before you leave for work. Here are signs that your pet dog is feeling stressed. Whining — a GSD whines when it is bored, and when it wants to go outside. As the Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix is from a family of intelligent breeds, expect it to whine when it cannot do what it wants. Pacing — when your dog continually walks back and forth, it is a sign that is stressed or anxious. Iheartdogs explains that this happens when a dog is in a very small enclosure or on a leash, and they are feeling suffocated. Lip-licking — lip-licking or lip flicking they bring their tongue in and out for no reason is also a sign that your dog is stressed. It is either that they are hungry, want to move around, or something is bothering them on their skin. Lowered-Ears — this trait is from GSDs. If you see your Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix with its ears down, it is a sign that it is feeling anxious over something. Barking — the Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix barks at people they are not familiar with. If your dog keeps on barking when there is no stranger around, then it means it is feeling off about something. Drooling — drooling can mean two things — your dog is not feeling well or is anxious and nervous. If you notice that your GSD and Rhodesian Ridgeback mix is drooling for no reason, take it to your vet immediately. Scratching — if your Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix continually scratches its ears, tails, or a part of its body, check it out for any signs of rashes and other infections. Tail-chasing — this behavior is common to German Shepherds. They often chase their tail when they are bored or anxious. Displaying excessive behavior — this hybrid produces a very active dog. However, if your dog keeps on moving around, barking, and drooling, put it on a leash and bring it to your vet immediately. Frequently Asked Questions Are Ridgebacks aggressive? Historically, Ridgebacks were bred to be hunting dogs. This means that they are naturally territorial and protective dogs, however, this does not translate into aggression. Instead, they are generally well-mannered and even-tempered, making them a great breed for families with or without kids. They are extremely intelligent, which means that they might be able to suspect an intruder or bad energy from a person, where they might become somewhat aggressive. However, this is only due to their territorial nature. It all depends on how the dog has been trained and treated. Despite their hunting background, Ridgebacks are tender and gentle dogs who are highly protective over their companions. Can Rhodesian Ridgebacks be left alone? As Rhodesian Ridgebacks are such loyal and affectionate dogs, they can be prone to separation anxiety. This can result in separation anxiety. The best way to tackle separation anxiety is to bite the bullet and leave them alone in a room for an hour every day. This time should increase after a couple of days. When you do return, make sure not to excite them with praise. You should walk into the room and ignore their excitement, as this will help them to normalize you wandering in and out of the house. Eventually, they will learn that you will return and there is no point worrying. Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks easy to train? In fact, their intelligence makes them notoriously difficult to train! This should include simple recall training and obedience training, so you can learn to trust them off the leash. To tackle this, you must commit to consistent training until they get the hint. While it will take a long time, the results will be worth it! Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks bark a lot? For example, if they can sense an intruder or a suspicious person, they will probably bark to threaten them. You can enjoy up to 14 years of great companionship with this hunting and guard dog. Reduce risks of common medical problems like dysplasia and infection by giving your Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix a proper diet, vaccines, and plenty of exercise. This large dog is gentle and very loyal to its owner.