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Our mission is to improve the breed standard, produce stable, clear headed puppies and prepare them for bonding with their new humans. Come and see the difference. Whatever task you may have - a canine from West German Shepherds. Welcome to West German Shepherds. Our mission: to improve the breed standard, to produce stable, clear headed puppies and prepare them for bonding with their new humans. Committed to producing exceptional canines with 14 years of hard-earned expertise and insight; here, you will glean insider information on selecting a German Shepherd pup and why West German Shepherds. She passed away in my arms on Monday September 16th at AM. Brownie was our reigning queen, an alpha female who earned her stripes the hard way; as a result she never flaunted her position but rather ruled with a strong bark and gentle paw. Great with families, working bloodlines, very protective. When the AKC American Kennel Club or CKC either of the 2 following entities Canadian Kennel Club or the Continental Kennel Club registers a new puppy, it does so sight unseen - without ever having evaluated the appearance, health or quality of the parents of the litter. In fact only a minuscule fraction of the tens of thousands of breeding dogs all across America have ever been evaluated. While registration is a great place to start, there is more to consider than whether the dog is registered. Sadly, the marketplace is chock full of puppies with bad genetics and these are from officially registered canine parents. A puppy born with a slight genetic abnormality might come from purebred parents, and can still be registered. An inexperienced or unscrupulous breeder may not recognize the uneven hips on a puppy and sell it to someone who will later breed the puppy. The final outcome will be a new line of registered dogs that are genetically inferior. None of these statements are made to be derogatory of the AKC or CKC, these registration organizations do many wonderful things to improve the health, welfare, training and advocacy of ALL canines. Yes, AKC registration is an important factor that should not be overlooked, but there is much more to contemplate. The pedigree of both parents should be considered as part of your quest for a puppy, the pedigree will list all of the ancestors historically for 3 or 4 generations back up the family tree. All of the canines listed in the pedigree impact the genetics and thereby the health of the offspring. The pedigree itself does nothing to convey the health of a puppy, but it tells the dogs lineage, their titles and country of origin. By searching, you can find a breeder offering puppies from parents with exceptional pedigrees, that have correct body structure, a superior visual appearance, plus the temperament to match your expectations. What is an exceptional pedigree? The more champions in a pedigree, the better. Here is a quick run down of German Shepherd championship titles. The German Sieger beats hundreds of other Champions to be selected this coveted title. The only higher title accomplishment attainable is the World Sieger. It is the same as the Sieger - but is for the female winner of the German National Championship Conformation show. Not many people are familiar with the word Sieger but even less are familiar with the word Siegerin outside of German Shepherd professionals. The Sieger show is held annually in Germany. VA-2 is the Vice- Sieger, etc. The best genetics possible are found in Sieger show winning adult German Shepherds. The puppies born from these bloodlines will be the absolute best in quality and appearance when compared to the average German Shepherd you see on the street. An analogy would be like comparing a shiny Ferrari against a rusted out Ford Pinto. The top bloodlines are found in the VA titled dogs and filtered down into their offspring, but be prepared to pay a significantly premium price for that level of parenthood and prestige. You will hear of dogs described as being from show lines, herding lines or working lines. Show lines refers to canines that are used to compete in conformation shows, herding lines means canines used to herd sheep, working lines denotes canines used to work in protection, Schutzhund or other disciplines. Primarily there are 3 main types of German Shepherd Dogs. Czech Shepherds are longer and leaner in body frame, more narrow across the chest and have taller rear hindquarters. Typical coat colors are black and tan, black and creme, black and silver, brown sable, silver sable and brindled. The coat patterns of a Czech Shepherd run from blanket-back to saddleback and brindled but most are blanket backed. We do not produce Czech Shepherd pups. Yes, Dutch Shepherds still fall under the umbrella of German Shepherds. Dutch Shepherds originated in the Netherlands and are very similar to Czech Shepherds in body form however they are typically more solid, weighty and sturdy than Czech Shepherds. Dutch Shepherds are not very commonly found outside of police or military use. They also present as a harder dog meaning they require an experienced trainer, handler or owner. Obviously there are exceptions to these generalized statements. Dutch Shepherds are brindled in coat color, brindled simply means a mottled and multi-colored un-patterned coat appearance. We do not produce Dutch Shepherd pups. West German Shepherds come from the democratic capitalist state of West Germany. West German Shepherds have shorter more compact torsos, thicker across the chest and have the squatted or lowered hindquarters. It is not that the dogs are stacked or posed for pictures, their rear bone structure is genetically encoded to be positioned more angular than that of a Czech Shepherd. The coat colors of a West German Shepherd are black and red set in a saddleback pattern. While interesting, we do not own or breed for these types, nor am I going to invest any time delving into them further. Over the past 25 years I have owned and bred different types of German Shepherd dogs. I keep track of the litters being sold in our geographic region. The West German type German Shepherd dog is the most sought after type. This is the number one variety of German Shepherd dog that previous GSD owners, consumers, enthusiast and new first time owners are actively seeking. You might assume that the cheap dogs are not as healthy or desirable, and the more expensive ones are a better, safer choice. Breeders know this. Many breeders will put a higher price on their low quality dog to look professional and make their dogs appear more valuable. Some breeders import very expensive dogs so they can breed them to sell puppies at a higher price bracket. An experienced breeder can evaluate a dog by comparing the conformation or show quality, health, physical performance and the ability to work; but can only do so after having studied the breed and being immersed in these canines for many years. One factor that has impacted price structure is the difference between Czech Shepherds and West Germans Shepherds based on an over-inflated value. Many first time German Shepherd buyers are ignorant of this fact. The new buyer will look at a few breeder websites, see the price tag, then sticker shock sets in; so they search again based on a lower initial purchase price and soon find a breeder that sells at lower price tiers. It never was a bargain. Czechoslovakian Shepherds sell for less money for a number of reasons. The market is diluted with them, it seems they are on every street corner. If you want the best German Shepherd for your money you will need to hit the perfect trifecta: choose breeder, bloodline and puppy very wisely. Breed level dogs or dogs used for breeding purposes should be exceptionally beautiful, it should be like a day versus night comparison. Its time for a really bad analogy, but it should be like comparing the cute girl you saw at BurgerDoodle against the hot supermodel on TV. Or for the lady readers, it would be like comparing an overweight plumber to a ripped fitness instructor. There should be an impressive difference between the quality of a German Shepherd breed dog when compared to the German Shepherd you just saw on the street corner. Both parents should have correct body type, not be excessively underweight or overweight, they should have dark eye colors, the coat should be exceedingly beautiful with vivid color pigmentation. The body should be proportional to the animals overall size, the body should not be too short nor should it be too long. The dog should not be a giant massive pound beast, nor should it be a petite 55 pounds worth of dog. The withers should be the high point and the back line or top line should gracefully slope to the hind quarters from there. The torso should appear rugged with powerful legs, the angulation should be correct and the stance when viewed from the side should look as if the German Shepherd were ready or capable of striking in a nanosecond. The West German Shepherd is a herding type breed and should weigh between 70 to 90 lbs and be 22 to 26 inches tall. That is 22 to 24 inches for a female and 24 to 26 inches for a male Toss a ball and observe the adults as they run, their movement should be easy, graceful as if to announce - yep, I can do this all day long! Look to see if the movement is fluid or constrained. Check the eyes, ear and teeth. Eyes should have dark pupil colors, teeth properly aligned, ears should be set close and stand erect, they should be reasonably clean and not coated with goo inside. Do the adult dogs track you as you move around? Are they agitated or nervous at your presence there? Pet them, handle them and look for their response. Nearly every German Shepherd breeder in America will tell you that they have champion bloodlines. Immerse yourself by studying, looking at pictures, making comparisons, asking questions via phone, text or email and then going to visit several of the top contenders. Go visit, meet them in person, ask questions, make notes etc. Choosing a breeder does not sound like a complicated task, however you should visit with several individuals and keep a skeptical eye open. Just because this breeder has nice looking German Shepherds - does not make them an ethical or honest person. Nearly everyone has heard the term puppy-mill. This refers to a large breeding operation that mass produces puppies to sell in a variety of retail outlets. Some of the puppies go to pet stores and boutiques, others are sold on-line and shipped in crates via carrier or air-freight, still others are to be sold at events like dog shows, local flea markets, farmers markets, outdoor festivals or from the back of a pick-up truck. Please beware of purchasing from the aforementioned venues, a large portion of these animals also come with very serious life threatening diseases. The puppy mills are known for over-crowding, unsanitary conditions and harsh treatment of animals since they often operate in secrecy in a warehouse or very remote type location. Another type of breeder is the novice, money driven or back yard breeder. These types are largely copy cats. They read websites of professional breeders and the on-line ads, familiarize themselves with the terminology, soon enough they begin executing their forgery. They position themselves as professional breeders but on a smaller scale, offering puppies that are hand raised etc. If you were to look around their property - they place looks like a normal home, there is no footprint or significant investment to indicate that they have created a top-notch, professional environment for their canines. See the selecting a breeder section for more information on how to identify unsavory breeder types and more specifically what to look out for. The canine breeder should be a walking encyclopedia about the overall health, housing, care, nutrition, exercise and training necessary for the type of canines they are breeding. They should have built up a considerable amount of knowledge, expertise and experience around their breed, they should also be proficient at mating and whelping too. Their kennels and property should reflect careful consideration about every decision that impacts the housing, health and environment for their canines. I highly recommend you visit with a few breeders, there is no substitute for this step. This is an opportunity for you to evaluate the breeder, to observe the adult canine animals and also the time to examine the relationship between the breeder and their animals. If the breeder is a professional - then there should be compelling evidence that they have made a significant investment in providing great facilities for the animals. What is the condition of the fencing, the shelter, the dog house, the whelping area etc? How does the breeder talk, do you feel extremely comfortable with their knowledge, character, speech and demeanor? This is the precise moment in time where you need to follow your gut. I have visited other breeders and seen unbelievable things, such as: When the puppies eat, play, then take a nap; mice scurried out from under the shed and begin scarfing crumbs of food dropped by the puppies. Another breeder had a koi pond with long strands of green slime pond scum, the puppies were using this as a water source; the issue was every time that it rained, the runoff rainwater drained back into the koi pond carrying with it the germs and bacteria from the waste products generated by the puppies. I have met a few great breeders and many really bad ones. In the final analysis - you are not just buying a puppy, but you are buying into the combined genetics of both parents, you are buying into the kennel, the breeder person, their level of knowledge and expertise, lastly whether or not that person is honest and ethical. Believe me - there are some real unsavory characters out there breeding dogs, selling puppies and offering stud service. For more info please read - Selecting a Breeder. The health of the animal is determined by genetics as passed down from both parents. Each pup has 2 parents, 4 grandparents, 8 great grandparents 16 great great grandparents all of these ancestor impact the offspring. Inquire of the breeder if there are any known genetic problems. Inquire about the frequency of those genetic problems occurring. If a breeder proudly says there have never had a problem with any of their animals then you should consider 1 of 2 possibilities. The very best kennels in the country have encountered genetic problems, but because of strict quality control protocols they move to a different pairing of adults to eliminate the genetic problem or they stop breeding that line altogether. A sincere breeder should offer a health guarantee to protect the customers investment. Always read the contract and ask questions long before making a deposit. A genuine breeder should want to stand behind their puppies, they should want to protect their reputation and provide detailed records. Furthermore a breeder should encourage open communication and build a relationship with their customers, how else will the breeder stay abreast of the health, wellness and genetic factors that are happening within their bloodline? An experienced breeder should have insight as to the traits of each puppy in the litter. The breeder should be able to help show you which puppy best suits your needs based on the criteria you have stated. What is the singular most important trait to you? Do you travel frequently and want a protective dog for your family? Are you seeking a dog for companionship? Is your situation that you have a big family, a lot of friends, neighbors and relatives who visit often and want a family dog? Were you planning on working the dog? Share this information with your breeder and ask them to help steer you towards a puppy that exhibits traits that are well suited for your primary intended purpose. Many clients want to actively choose a puppy, while others are more comfortable with a passive approach, spend time with the litter and allow the choice to be more organic and mutually made by the puppy that is attracted to them. There is nothing wrong with either method but I will offer this - If you want to ensure that you get the puppy with the traits that most closely match your needs, then for optimum results take an active role in making the selection. In each litter there will be certain trait variations the pups have inherited from their parents. Any German Shepherd puppy born in the litter can be trained to serve or work in any type of role that you desire, however some pups are more naturally suited to be self starters and do the task with minimal input from you. A German Shepherd is not naturally a mean or vicious dog, however they are alert, aware and protective. These traits have been locked into them from the start by the nature of the breed, these animals were coded to be discerning from the start. A Golden Retriever is a great congenial dog, it loves everyone it encounters right down to the burglar who is prying open the back window of your home with a crowbar. The Golden Retriever will hold the door open and wag its tail as the contents of the home are being ransacked and loaded into a truck. Now flip the script and try that with the German Shepherd dog. The German Shepherd dog has already been eyeballing everyone long before they set foot on the property. Even if the dog was inside and did not see someone coming - it is always listening for sounds that are non typical for its environment. Go ahead and pry the window open with the crowbar - lets see how that works out for you. Someone may actually get inside but I am pretty confident they will be encouraged to leave hastily by the canine with intense actions of fierce barking, deep growling, hackles up, ears on high alert and eyes laser focused on the intruder. The uninvited guest will drop everything - run out the door with empty arms, a chewed up backside, a renewed fear of God Almighty and total respect for the German Shepherd Dog… Again, the German Shepherd is not a mean dog, it is not a vicious dog, but it is a vigilant dog. It is a watch dog - it is a dog that closely looks after the people that it is bonded to and the place where they live together. All things considered - a German Shepherd is a very practical investment for peace of mind regardless whether you are young or old, single or have a large family. On pickup day I will spend a minimum of an hour and a half with each new owner going over paperwork and the best practices for feeding, health, training, tips on care, etc. With West German Shepherds. You are buying into the tremendous wealth of bloodlines we have selectively cultivated and created, you are buying the expertise we have accumulated in 14 years of running a top notch breeding program. I am passionate about this breed and ensuring that everyone who wants a German Shepherd - has an amazing experience. Please contact me if I can be of service to you. Thank you for visiting West German Shepherds. The original quote was intended for every breed of dog; as German Shepherd owners already know - these canines are far superior to any other breed on the planet! I often repeat - some days you are the dog, some days you are the fire hydrant. More quotes can be found at the bottom of each page. I have three pets at home which answer the same purpose as a husband. I have a dog which growls every morning, a parrot which swears all afternoon, and a cat that comes home late at night. Do you get the difference? The man will be there to feed the dog. The dog will be there to keep the man from touching the equipment. Contact Us for Details on Our Puppies! The joy of owning a working line bred German Shepherd is immeasurable — but a companion and workmate that gives itself over to you so completely requires a significant reciprocal commitment. Do you have a fenced yard? Are you able to devote at least 30 minutes per day to exercising your dog? Will your puppy be raised inside of your home as a part of your family? Do you have small children, infants or other animals in your home currently and if not do you plan to in the future? Do you plan to crate train your puppy in addition to housebreaking? Are you prepared to feed a high quality food to your dog such as a grain-free or holistic food as a regular diet throughout its lifetime? Do you know the difference between the temperaments and character of a Working Line German Shepherd Dog over a show line or an American bred German Shepherd? Have you already consulted with a private trainer or know of obedience classes that are offered in your area that may be more specific to working dogs over an average Pet Store style all breed pet training class? Do you plan to spay or neuter your puppy when he or she is old enough? Are you financially prepared to provide care for your dog and seek veterinary care in the event of an emergency that may require hospitalization of your dog? If you are planning on breeding, do you have at least 5 years minimum experience as a Breeder? Are you educated in canine reproduction and development, have the basic knowledge and understanding of genetics as well as proper care for newborn pups, neonatal intensive care and experience in identifying reproductive complications or emergencies should they arise? Contact History of the Working Line German Shepherd The history of the working line German Shepherd can be traced back to the s in Germany when the dogs' breeding was standardized. Dog breeding was introduced mainly to produce dogs that would help the shepherds protect the flock from predators. Throughout this time, however, contentions existed on whether the bred dogs should be used for appearance only or whether they could perform working functions as well. A German captain and former student of veterinary science, Max von Stephanitz, nonetheless, advocated for standardized breeding of working dogs. This advocacy was inspired by the performance and abilities of the dog Hektor Linksrhein in a dog show. Stephanitz purchased Hektor and changed its name to Horand von Grafrath, considered the first German shepherd dog. The breeding of working line German shepherds became popular from then onwards. Stephanitz's efforts to formulate methodical breeding programs contributed significantly to the field of breeding working line German shepherds. Horand's abilities and genes became the core of the breeding system for working line German Shepherds and set the foundation for developing working line types of German shepherds. Using Horand's bloodline, Stephanitz continuously worked on inbreeding procedures to develop dogs that were purposefully for working. The program proved successful when out of Horand came Schwaben and Beowulf, who became the origin of the existing German shepherd working lines. German shepherds soon became popular in America when their first exposure happened there in .Because of the new working line of German shepherds, German shepherd dog shows became increasingly famous in the US. Developments in the cross-breeding processes of German shepherd working lines further improved during the Second World War, with German shepherds assisting both the Axis powers in paramilitary and military initiatives. Even after the war, however, both America and Germany undertook rigorous breeding and training programs of the German shepherd working lines. Like its show line counterpart, it traces its origins back to West Germany, which existed when Germany was split into the East and West. It is considered the closest representation of the types of dogs bred initially by Stephanitz. In their breeding, greater focus is given to the correct working structure, a stable temperament, a strong working drive, and great ability. The West German working line can be considered in contrast to the West German Show line, bred purposefully to work real jobs in service positions, but it also excels in many different sports. Therefore, their bodies have been bred to take on a more defined working structure relative to the show line types. Unlike the West German show lines, which were bred to conform to specific show standards, the West German working line was bred to excel in jobs such as protection and law enforcement particularly. Nonetheless, the West German working line can also make for a great family pet with an active family. Nevertheless, they require great attention in terms of exercise and mental stimulation due to the breed's high working drive characteristic. They have a lot of energy, and hence they need to be continuously occupied with high-intensity activities, lest they grow restless. A slight slope of their backs characterizes their appearance, not quite as much as the West German show line but can be greater than that of other working line types. Their back and hindquarters' angulation lies somewhere between that of the West German show line and the East German working line. The characteristic regal head and shoulders of the German shepherd working lines are present, but they are less bulky in the front of the body. Subsequently, this build allows them to have a relatively balanced body, bred for speed, agility, and bite power. While their popularity was high after the World Wars before subsiding with time, they have since carved out a name for themselves in recent times for their capacity to learn, work and provide companionship. DDRs trace their origin from the guard dogs lines initially bred in East Germany after the Second World War, and they are known mainly for their police work. Their name originates from Germany's official name during the period, Deutsche Demokratische Republik, translating to the Federal Republic of Germany. The East Germany Communist Party set up a strict breeding program for German shepherd dogs utilized in the military during the cold war era. DDR German shepherds emerged from these breeding programs, gaining popularity for their high work drive and working ability. The East German shepherd breeding program was established to keep pace with the shift in the security demands of East Germany. Within the territory, the government faced an increasing need to deal with attempted defectors from the military, and the country saw the benefits availed by superior dogs in dealing with their security issue, breeding dogs that excelled in police and military work. The East German working line was bred with traits such as withstanding the gruesome winter weather and the capacity to scale six-foot walls, which would help them perform their roles. Because the breeding of East German working lines was highly regulated and isolated from outside influence, the breeding program's discipline and standards were maintained at significantly high levels. It possesses many of the qualities that human soldiers are endowed with, which helps them adapt and thrive in the roles they perform. Like soldiers, East German working lines have high endurance levels, an iron will, courage, high intelligence, and a strong capacity to maintain focus. However, in modern times, not all DDRs display the same soldier-like characteristics, as some may be quite laid back and less drive-y. Their temperament enables them to be gentle with their family while still being protective. The dog devotes unending loyalty to anyone who shares a home with it and is increasingly wary of anyone or anything that can be considered a threat. This includes strangers, who may require a careful and thorough introduction with it. Their loyalty to their family fully extends to even its youngest members. East German working lines have appearances that strongly conform to what is expected from a working line dog. Very different from the stereotypical German shepherd appearance embodied by the American show lines. A distinct large blocky head, thicker paws, and a thick barrel chest compose some of the East German working line's primary characteristics. The dogs have a thick bone structure characterized by low-fat composition and more muscle. Such a body structure enables the dog to display superior athleticism, with great strength, agility, speed, and stamina. East German working lines have recorded a bite force of up to pounds of pressure, almost twice that of humans who recorded pounds of pressure. They had been bred as working dogs in the Czech since , but their popularity grew from when East and West Germany were reunified. While initially they had been bred purposefully for border control jobs, the Czech German shepherds were bred more as family dogs, rather than working dogs, from the time after the reunification of Germany. They took up many of the East German working line traits, including loyalty, intelligence, strong nerves, and working potential. While the two types of German shepherds have very similar bloodlines, they are not the same. They commonly have a more slender yet dense appearance and can appear more powerful. They stand on thick tight paws and a deep chest, with strong jaws and a robust body, which was useful in catching criminals when they were initially bred in Czechoslovakia. Except for high-level competitors or preservation breeders, most people don't know enough about individual bloodlines, pedigrees, and working line German Shepherds' subsets to make a well-informed choice. While each type of working line German Shepherd may have common traits, each individual puppy and dog is different and should be judged as such and not thrown into a specific category of traits due to his or her breed type. You may think the West German traits sound best for you, and your breeder may have the perfect Czech shepherd pup waiting for you! Learning about the history and origin of the various working line shepherds is fascinating, but your best bet is to speak with a breeder and let them guide you to a puppy that is the right fit for your home and needs- regardless of its specific subset of bloodlines! These can then be broken down further into North American Show Lines, West German Show Lines, and various working lines, although for the purposes of this discussion we will focus on the differences between the working lines in general and their show line counterparts. Working line GSDs are usually smaller and less angulated than their show line counterparts. Their colouration can vary considerably, from solid black, to sable, to black and tan, which is closest to what most people envision when they think of a GSD. Of course the reason for the variance in appearance is because working line GSDs have been bred first and foremost for their temperament, nerve, and working ability as opposed to their looks. These dogs tend to be very high in energy and drive, which leads to an incredible willingness to work for rewards. They are expected to have a confident, thought out, and appropriate response to any situation in which they find themselves and should never be reactive to loud noises, crowds of people or unfamiliar places. Working line GSDs make very good dogs for police and military work, however with appropriate training and leadership, these same attributes courage, mental stability, trainability, loyalty make working line GSDs a fantastic option for active households. They tend to be of larger structure bone thickness, breadth of head and height , than working line GSDs and generally carry the well-known black and red colouration. While Western German Show Line breeders have historically bred their dogs to win in the show ring, the German Shepherd Club of Germany SV nevertheless requires that all German Shepherds meet strict standards for nerve and temperament before being bred and, as such, even West German show lines have retained a high degree of fidelity to the original breed standard. Although these dogs share a common ancestry with their German Shepherd cousins, lax non-existent breeding standards in North America have resulted bloodlines that have strayed so far from the original standard, both physically and tempermentally, that the American German Shepherd no longer bears much resemblance to the original German Shepherd. The physical traits and disposition are ideal for long hours of concentration and the ability to adhere to commands. A working line GSD is generally a healthier dog than its show counterpart and there are distinct differences. Working line German Shepherd breeders choose their sires and bitches carefully in order to produce the strongest pups with the best genetic lines. This breed excels at K9 training and they are well acclimated to following commands, provided the owner has a firm hand and understands how to best work with the breed. The working line breed was standardized with the intent of producing dogs that could protect livestock from predators. The breed became more popular around the turn of the 20th century and was introduced in the United States in .Working line German Shepherd breeders developed and improved breeding techniques and the working line dogs became instrumental in military initiatives for both the Allied and Axis forces during World War II. After World War II, German and American working line German Shepherd breeders continued to further the breeding process and these amazing dogs have become synonymous with military and law enforcement work over the last century. There are a few differences between the working line German Shepherd and the show line in disposition and appearance. The working line dog is bred to be stronger, healthier, and more able to work for long hours. These dogs also enjoy working. They are high energy, which is necessary for the type of work that they do. In appearance, working line dogs have a thicker coat. They are sturdier and thicker than show line dogs and their back legs are longer, giving them a straight structure. Show line dogs have shorter back legs, giving them a slanted back and a sleeker appearance. These dogs are bred to be agile and obedient. Excellent for protection, the Czech line is strictly bred and is noted for its dark coat. West German. The West German line is noted for its coloring and pleasing looks. They are also known to be calm in temperament. They do have a strong drive and great work ability. DDR German Shepherds are known for their athleticism. These dogs are more muscular and larger. They were bred for extreme conditions and difficult work, such as search and rescue. Protectiveness, Intelligence, and Trainability The working line German Shepherd is naturally inclined to protection. The breed likes and wants to do well with commands. They are very responsive and intelligent. But they need a firm hand from their owner and trainer. Depending on the line, most GSD can be described as aloof. They are intelligent and highly motivated. These dogs were bred for work, so they need to be exercised and worked regularly to maintain optimal health. These dogs are specifically bred to work and to carry specific traits and temperaments. Working line GSD are an excellent choice for military, law enforcement, and protection. Your breeder should be able to work with you to find the right dog, type, and temperament, depending on the type of work you want the dog to do. We can match you with the ideal German Shepherd puppy for your needs and work with you to understand all of the intricacies of the breed and training.

If socialized early, can be good with other pets Easily groomed Exercise needs are not intense Can make a good watch dog May be trained for farm duties CONS Better suited for homes than small apartments Large size pets require supervision around small children May be dominant towards other pets Expect drool and slobber Not an exercise partner, most likely Likelihood to inherit various health conditions from parent breeds English American Bulldog Breed Description English Bulldog and American Bulldog crosses are somewhere in the pound range; hybrids vary so much in terms of size that the best way to estimate how large yours may grow is to see the parents. EngAms often are larger, more athletic looking and with a more proportionate body than the English but usually retain the broad wrinkled head and strong chest. The short, low maintenance coat is usually multicolored including white. This breed is not one of the easiest to train. That being said, if from the beginning you can consistently instruct them with patience and offer them plenty of treats and praise , results will gradually come; often they are said to be stubborn. Note the EngAm should have early socialization to not be overly assertive with other pets if they inherit more American Bulldog characteristics. While many tend to be skeptical of bulldog breeds, if raised with love and patience, they are good family companions. They enjoy playing, attention, and affection which children provide so well, however, their large size may pose an accidental hazard to very small children. Most will do fine with other pets if socialized from a young age. Although watchful and protective, they are not outright aggressive and make good watch dogs. In fact, they will often be friendly and outgoing-- although sometimes remaining reserved until familiar with the person. Although more athletic than the purebred English, they on average need only a medium amount of activity. At least 30 minutes per day of walks and outdoor playtime is recommended. A fenced yard is also highly desirable for this hybrid. EngAms also enjoy trips to the dog park and plenty of toys! English American Bulldog Coloring Hybrids will vary more in color since they may take on the color possibilites of both parent breeds. Solid white English American bulldogs are not uncommon, however, most are white along with small to large patches of another color that often is one or more of the following: Brown. It is a cross between the American Bulldog and the English Bulldog. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. His mother was a white English Bulldog, and his father was a fawn American Bulldog. He is 1 year and 6 months old in this picture, weighing 60 lbs. Stitch, as most Bulldogs are, is very stubborn and headstrong. If you give him an inch, expect to be taken a mile. I got Stitch when he was about 12 weeks old and he was the most terrible dog I'd ever encountered, but with a lot of time and intensive training he is the best dog I've ever owned and I will never own any other type of dog. He loves pineapple and oranges, he hates cigarette smoke and cheap beer—yeah, he only drinks Warsteiner and Red Stripe.He is mostly white, with brindle patches on his head, arm, back and legs. He has tons of black spots under his belly. His mother is a lbs English purebred, while his father, an American, weighs just under 80 lbs. We were told by the breeder, who owned both dogs, that his grandfather weighed 90 lbs.!! At 5 months, Rocko already weighs 50 lbs. He is very playful and extremely affectionate. He loves to cuddle and be held like a baby. He loves to take baths , and if I don't close the door, he might just surprise me by jumping in! He is intelligent, loyal and VERY stubborn. He only does what he wants and nothing more. He wants everyone's attention and plays well with kids and other animals. His "brother" is a Chow mix and they play morning, noon, and night though Rocko needs to take naps in between! He eats too much, tears up my house, chews on my shoes, and occasionally plays too rough, but at the end of the day, when I am lying in bed with him snoring at my side, it's all worth it! Sitting in the chair and at 10 months old he weighed 90 pounds. He got up to , but broke his hip when he bit a moving truck. He is fully recovered now and weighs in at 90 pounds. He still wants to bite the tires of anything that moves! We got Amos from a family in Corning, NY, who had a four-puppy litter. We brought him home when he was 7 weeks old and he just turned 9 months and weighs in at 85 lbs I walk him miles a day , weather permitting, and he never wants to stop. When we get inside he promptly drinks a lot of water. He goes through almost 2 gallons of water a day. He is a gentle giant and afraid of his own shadow. He would never hurt a human being since it is not in his nature. That being said, he is an excellent guard dog and very frightful to look at. His bark sounds like a Mastiff's and is deafening. He was extremely easy to train and has never had an accident indoors. He loves to play with the laser light to exhaustion and loves to rip and shred stuffed animals. Squeaker toys end up destroyed in minutes, sometimes seconds, and he proudly displays the internal squeaker to you in his dripping mouth. He will eat almost anything and is simply a joy to behold. Everyone who sees him falls in love and wants to adopt him. We love Amos dearly and he is a welcome addition to our family. However, breeders have transitioned the two breeds into working dogs. Bulloxers are gentle and affectionate hybrid dogs known for their loyalty to their owner and family. However, they reach maturity at a slow pace and may behave like untrained puppies for years. The Bulloxers, which are also called the American Boxerbulls, can live for about nine to twelve years or even longer. Bulloxers are large and muscular dogs. Their coats come in three colors, which are brindle, fawn, and white. So you need to have a vacuum cleaner handy and brush it for a few days a week. Keep it on a daily exercise routine that can satisfy its cravings for a physical challenge. The combination of two strong-headed breeds can make for a hybrid dog that is hard to handle. However, the Husky Bulldog responds well to positive reinforcement. The American Bullsky may be prone to hip dysplasia, cherry eye, and cardiac diseases. It is also unadvisable to let the Bullsky live in a hot environment. The Corgi American Bulldog mix is a sweet companion for families, based on the temperament of the two parent breeds. The Corgi mixed with American Bulldog will have a high energy level, which means that owners need to take them on long walks or hikes until they tire out. The American Bulldog and Corgi are both moderate shedders, which should tell you about the amount of shedding an American Bullcorg will have. It may go from standard, which leans to the Bulldog side, or the toy size, which is from the Poodle gene. The American Boodle may have short to medium length coat with a wavy texture. Because of its Poodle genes, the hybrid dog may require constant grooming and brushing. American Bulldoodle need training and socialization as a puppy. They often get attached to their owners and may feel separation anxiety when left alone for a long period of time. Find an American Boodle breeder who subjected their dogs to testing for genetic disorders. Bulldog Shepherd puppies are hard to find because only the Dog Registry of America recognizes this hybrid-dog. You will need a brush that can comb through thick and long hair for its weekly grooming. When untrained, the dog loves to play biting games, which might feel unsafe for owners and their families. The American Bulldog Beagle sheds heavily, but its short coat makes it easy for owners to groom. Despite constant problems with ear infections, the Beabull is a hybrid breed with a healthy immune system and can live up to ten to thirteen years. The American Bugle weighs about thirty to sixty pounds and reaches the height of approximately twelve to sixteen inches. If left alone and not given enough training, they can be lazy. Forty-five minutes of exercise will keep the hybrid dog very happy. The American Bulldog and Bull Mastiff mix also go by the name of American Bandogge Mastiff, which includes any bulldog and mastiff combination. The American Mastiff may develop genetic health issues common to American Pit Bull Terriers and any Mastiff-type breeds, and it will help to research the common illnesses those types of breeds can catch. The American Badogge Mastiff has a British canine temperament, which makes it a good companion for children, often being a self-appointed babysitter. Labradogs, or American Bulladors, have low maintenance coats that require brushing once every week. If the dog is leaning to the Labrador side, more grooming is needed. Coat colors vary from black, brown, white, yellow, red, or tan. American Bulldog and Labrador mix, who also goes by the name American Labrabull, can suffer from the brachycephalic syndrome, which will give your dog breathing troubles, gagging, or collapse. American Bulladors are eager to please and ready to learn, which makes it quite easy to train them at an early age. The American Bulldog and Chihuahua mix, which also goes by the name of American Bullhuahua, is prone to dental issues. It is essential to keep its diet to grain-free kibble that can sustain its nutritional requirement. The American Bulleenie boasts a thin coat that will need weekly brushing and bathing. While its thin jacket is short and soft, it can shed occasionally. The American Bulleenie is a highly sociable dog. It loves spending time with its owners. It remains cautious around strangers because of its Chihuahua genes. It engages in hunting activities, police watches, and military work. Its height ranges from twenty-seven to thirty-five inches, while its weight strolls around to pounds. The American Bulldog crossed with Great Dane requires daily brushing to reduce dead hairs. It needs high-maintenance grooming from its nails, ears, and teeth. Due to its size, the American Dane requires constant training to maintain a healthy lifestyle. However, its low energy level limits its exercise to two to three walks per day. The American Chow Bulldog cannot handle extreme weather because of its dense coat. The Chow American Bulldog mix is fierce and protective of its family. However, its low energy level makes it hard to train. The American Chow Bulldog require fifteen to thirty minutes of daily exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle. There are not a lot of information about the history of the Border Collie Bulldog mix, but there is a lot of data available regarding its parents to help potential owners learn more about the American Collie. The American Bulldog crossed with Border Collie can prove to be a handful regarding grooming because of their constant shedding. The average size of an American Bull-Aussie is around nineteen to twenty-five inches and can weigh up to 70 to pounds. The Australian Shepherd mixed with American Bulldog breed is relatively new, which makes information scarce. The Dachshund Bulldog has a lifespan of eight to seventeen years if properly trained and treated. The Bulldog Dachsund mix makes for an interesting combination of the usually laid-back American Bulldog and the stubborn Dachshund. This is a rare and undocumented breed. Because of its excess skin, the Mini-Bulldog is also prone to fainting due to heat. Unlike most dogs, the Mini-Bulldog does not require too much exercise. Playing with it will suffice. The Mini-Bulldog is an excellent pet for all ages. The children will enjoy its playful nature while the elderly will find its quiet companionship comfortable. The American Bullpug also does not crave much attention compared to other breeds. It may be helpful to check the histories of both parents to get more knowledge about the American Bernard. Both Saint Bernard and the American Bulldog are examples of alpha dogs. Owners must establish themselves as the pack leader to make the exercises easy. When Saint Bernard is crossed with the American Bulldog, the size of the hybrid dog will adopt the size of the large breed. The American Bernard is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which makes fish oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin supplements a diet to maintain its health. The Cane Corso American Bulldog mix is a rare hybrid dog, which means its history is still unavailable. Both parent breeds have a history of being protective family pets. If Cane Corso mixed with American Bulldog puppies can get proper training, they can make for beautiful guard dogs for your home and your children. The Shar-Pei American Bulldog mix is about twelve to twenty inches in height and an approximate of forty to sixty-five pounds. The American Bulldog crossed with Shar Pei you want to get must come from a reputable breeder who will offer a guarantee that the puppy is healthy. Both parents have a rich history, which makes it easier for owners to research if they want the Shar-Pei American Bulldog mix. The American Bulldog Akita mix can live up to nine to eleven years. Bullkitas are known to be assertive yet sensitive animals that are attuned to their environment, which makes for an excellent trait for watchdogs. The Blue Heeler Bulldog mix is a vigilant and hardworking hybrid dog which require lots of exercises. It also needs to socialize with other dogs at an early age to avoid being shy and fearful. The Blue Heeler mixed with American Bulldog can live from eight to fifteen years. The American Heeler can develop health issues that are common from both parent breeds. Owners must buy puppies from a breeder who knows the history of both parents. The Olde Bulldog is a large dog that has low to moderate amount of shedding. It needs brushing at least twice a week to keep its coat healthy and free from dirt. It is vital for the Olde Bulldog to get constant amounts of exercise at a young age. Otherwise, it tends to become lazy and may enjoy long periods of naps. But the height and weight of the hybrid dog often come from the Golden Retriever. Both parent breeds have loving and faithful personalities, which make it very easy to train and to adapt to prominent families with children. There are limited publications about the American Bulldog Great Pyrenees mix. The Great Pyrenees mixed with American Bulldog make for a promising dog with large and muscular features. Both parents are known for their powerful protector instincts. The American Bulldog and Great Pyrenees mix is perfect for search-and-rescue teams or police watches. Despite its powerful stature, the American Bernese is a tender and friendly dog that devotes their life to their human pack. It does not like getting scolded and does not respond well to physical harm. Training an American Bernese requires patience and understanding. The Moutain Bulldog needs about four to five cups of high-quality dog food a day to keep up with its active lifestyle and high energy level. Teaching an American Bullypit requires the proper knowledge of raising the energetic breeds of both parents to make sure that the behavior emerging from the training is appropriate. It may become too oppressive and might need to be away from children and other pets. The popularity of Pitbull Bulldog mix in the s was because of their aggression and how they treat other dogs in crowded animal shelters, making it a controversial crossbreed. The eyes, ears, and teeth of a Bullpit require constant checking for infections. However, it is a low maintenance dog when it comes to grooming. Pet dog classified ads, local breeder networks, and online dog forums are ways to help an owner find American Bulldog and French Bulldog puppies. The French Bulldog and American Bulldog both have a complicated past. The French were driven out of England by the Industrial Revolution, while the American Bulldog was used for violent sports like bull-baiting. American Bulldog and French Bulldog puppies enjoy playtime with other dogs at the park. At an early age, they can run a speed similar to a human in a bicycle to fit their exercise needs. The Catahoula Bulldog is attentive to details. It is a perfect family pet and can get along with kids and other animals when appropriately trained. The Catahoula crossed with American Bulldog have tight skin with short, glossy coats. The Catahoula Bulldog is prone to suffering from dry nose, which can be irritable for your dog and may indicate more serious health issues. It is considered a toy dog because of its miniature size. The Bulldog Shih Tzu requires daily exercise that needs running like a game of fetch. The hybrid dog is known to over-eat, which makes it essential to exercise with the Bulldog Shih Tzu on a regular basis. The Shih Tzu Bulldog has medium hair that is easy to maintain. Brush its coat three times a week to keep it shiny and free of tangles. The Shih Tzu crossed with American Bulldog is a short-nosed dog, which makes it prone to breathing difficulties. The Doberman Bulldog weighs at an average of forty to ninety pounds. It can grow to about fourteen to twenty-eight inches, making it a gigantic dog. There is not a lot of information available for the Doberman crossed with American Bulldog, but both parent breeds have outstanding canine histories. The Doberman and the American Bulldog are active dogs, which means their offspring might need a lot of exercises to maintain its health. Unfortunately, the American Newfoundland is an obscure breed with little-documented information. Owners can look into the parent breeds to learn more about it. The Newfoundland is a capable and hardworking dog that can work on land and water. It is a great swimmer. American Bulldog Newfoundland puppies are hard to find but owners must talk to a reputable breeder and a veterinarian before crossing the two different parent breeds. Obesity is a health risk so make sure you stay away from worst dry dog food as the pooch can easily gain weight from eating it. Nutrient boosters like Nutra Thrive dog food supplement make sure your American Bulldog mix gets all the vitamins and minerals they need. Kibble that offers the right protein-to-fat ratio is always the way to go and best dry dog food promises to give your pooch the right amount of both. Caring for puppies means paying extra attention to their diet. Check out this list of best puppy food brands if you adopted an American Bulldog cross pup only recently. Feeding older dogs is a whole other story—older ladies and gentlemen require a different amount of nutrients so choosing among best senior dry dog food will help them keep their bones and muscles resilient and lean for longer. American Bulldog mixes come in a variety of sizes. White, fawn, piebald, brindle, bi-color, tri-color Suitable for: Guarding duties, active lifestyles, large living spaces Temperament: Loyal, affectionate, protective, strong-willed An EngAm Bulldog is a cross between the American Bulldog and English bulldog, producing a larger, stouter version of the bully Englishman. These dogs are friendly, fun-loving, and outgoing. 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. Many breeders will require that you sign puppy contracts or submit a deposit. You might also get lucky and find one of these dogs and rescue or shelter nearby. These canines will come fully vaccinated, spayed or neutered, and with all other necessary care. These pups will keep you on your toes with their goofy antics and everyday mischief. As they mature, they typically calm down quite a bit—especially after spaying or neutering. Some of them might even be prone to extra-long naps, snoring, and falling asleep standing up. Their cuddly laziness is something to admire, but be careful not to let them gain a bunch of weight. These dogs are incredibly loyal and protective of their owners and any frequent visitors. However, they can be a little bit territorial and even sometimes aggressive without proper socialization. Getting your puppy out of the house and out to explore is the best way to ensure your adult will have sound judgment and good manners. These dogs are brilliant, but they can be stubborn. So make sure to be firm and consistent in your actions to prevent unwanted behaviors. Are These Dogs Good for Families? So if you have a growing family, the stars may work very well in your household. They will guard your house with their life, so they will always warn you when danger is afoot. They can knock any size person down quite easily with a little force. This breed is typically good with other dogs if they are socialized early. However, same-sex pairs might show aggression near the age of sexual maturity. Some never acclimate well with other dogs. It truly just depends on the individual and the amount of exposure they have to the outside world from puppyhood. EngAms can get along with the family cat as long as they are raised together. However, they will not be suitable for smaller pets or cage animals.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Deer Creek Comfort Dogs Shaping future companions for families and those in need of comfort Our family has been raising puppies for over 20 years. Our children have always had a passion for dogs which began our journey and now our grandchildren enjoy growing up with our wonderful dogs by their side. Deer Creek provides emotional support dogs, therapy dogs, service and therapy prospects, canine good citizen dogs as well as family pets. Deer Creek assists our families with puppy selection to help ensure the families get the puppy that will work well with their needs. Someone once said, "Acquiring a dog may be the only opportunity a human ever has to choose a relative" and we hope you choose one of ours. If you are interested in finding your new family member, fill out our puppy application and we will be thrilled to work with you. We recognize that our dogs have the capability of changing peoples' lives on a therapeutic level. Many of our Doodles have become therapy dogs at funeral homes, children's advocacy centers, hospitals and nursing homes, and others have found homes as anxiety, PTSD and emotional support dogs. Learn more about our nonprofit organization Deer Creek Paw Prints at www. Learn More Molly, Rhys, and Beau! Their adorable curly fur and expressive faces make you want to cuddle them — and these little guys love nothing more than a good squish. All this and more makes our labradoodle puppies for sale one the most in-demand in our center. Activity-loving families adore these dogs for their propensity towards sports, and anyone who prefers low-shedding pooch benefits from their wooly or fleecy fur. Labradoodle puppies for sale are so cute and come in such a wide range of colors that it makes choosing your new best friend super-hard! While spearheading the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia breeding program, he conducted the crossbreeding of a standard poodle and Labrador retriever in view of it being a hypoallergenic guide dog for blind people. The first example of this type of dog, called Sultan, went to live with a lady in Hawaii, where other breeders saw him as an inspiration and this is how Australian Labradoodle puppies started. Both the International Australian Labradoodles Association and the Australian Labradoodles Association of America are working hard to incorporate more intergenerational breeding so these dog breeders can register this type of dog as a purebred dog. Its gentle, obedient and intelligent personality combined with a hypoallergenic coat make it ideal for family members with allergies, but it also makes an excellent service or therapy dog. Labradoodle Puppies Lifespan When properly taken care of, healthy dogs tend to live anywhere from 10 to 13 years. The lifespan of our Labradoodle puppies for sale is slightly above average at 12 to 14 years. Here are the life stages of multigenerational Australian Labradoodles: Puppyhood: First five months Adolescence: Between five months and two years Adulthood: Between two and three years Middle age: Between seven years and 10 years Senior: Over 10 years Labradoodles need the most attention and care in the first and last stages of their life. During puppyhood, their minds are highly impressionable, which is ideal for training. During their senior years, Labradoodles are more susceptible to health problems, which means owners need to keep a watchful eye. Labradoodle Size The size of labradoodle puppies for sale directly relates to the size of their parents and which generation of breed Labradoodle breeders chose. The larger the puppies, the larger the adult dog will be, and the faster their growth will be coming out of the puppy stage. A standard labradoodle puppy will weigh from pounds by the time it reaches two months of age. By a year old, it will have grown dramatically to up to 80 pounds, depending on the size of its parents. Medium Labradoodles occupy a spectrum of sizes between standard and mini Labradoodles, with the specifics depending heavily on the details of the breeding pair that birthed them and the breeding program they come from. Labradoodle Puppies Temperament While Labradoodle breeders originally bred the Australian Labradoodles as therapy dogs, their fun, friendly personalities made them popular pets. Now you can find these sociable dogs in homes across the globe. Here are some of the top personality traits of our Labradoodle puppies for sale. They tend to do best in active households where they can work off all that pent-up energy. You can fulfill their needs through the following activities: Walks or jogs: Labradoodles make great walking companions and can even keep up with you during a jog. Playing in the yard: Enjoy a game of fetch with your furry friend in the yard or just let it loose on its own. Dog sports: If you stay active through sports, consider making your labradoodle a part of your routine. Bring it on bike rides, go for a run together or kick a ball around in the yard. Obstacle courses: Set up an obstacle course for your dog using household items. Scavenger hunt: Creating a scavenger hunt for your canine is a great way to exercise its body and brain. In general, Labradoodles need anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day. You can also enroll them later at a Labradoodle puppy alumni school for proper training. Friendliness What makes Labradoodles the perfect puppy compare to other dog breeds is their ability to get along with just about anyone. They inherit this trait from their Labrador retriever parent, a breed also known for its outgoing nature. You can trust your labradoodle to form friendships with everyone, from children and older adults to strangers and other puppies. Thanks to their affectionate, sociable personalities, Labradoodles make great pets for first-time owners, families, or anyone looking for a companion. Intelligence Thanks to their poodle parent breeds, Labradoodles are incredibly intelligent dogs. Because Labradoodles are intelligent, they often crave mental stimulation. Labradoodle Puppies Grooming Our Labradoodle puppies for sale have a variety of coat textures that dog owners enjoy, but in general, their low shedding coat needs brushing at least twice a week. Not only does this keep them tangle-free but it also removes excess debris from their coat, keeping them fresh and hygienic. Regularly trim the hair around their eyes and in between their paws to prevent these problem areas from causing irritation. Pooches with fleece coats tend to have longer fur and benefit the most from going to a professional groomer — although every dog loves getting pampered once in a while. At Pride and Prejudoodles, we send a can and a bag of the foods we use for free with your hand-delivered bundle of joy. If you need to change it for any reason, it must be done gradually to avoid stomach upsets. Just bear in mind that a diet is such a crucial aspect of wellness that feeding them good quality food will add years to their lives compared to opting for low-quality feed. Pride and Prejudoodles is here to help. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Labradoodle puppies for adoption. Life Span Did You Know? Second-generation crosses could include a Labradoodle and a Mini Poodle or two Mini Labradoodles as parents. This hybrid dog breed was originally developed to create smaller potential service dogs that might be a good fit for people with allergies to dog fur. With a mixed breed, you can end up with any combination of traits from the parent breeds. Often, Mini Labradoodles are smart, friendly, and sociable dogs that are highly trainable. They are often found working as service dogs and therapy dogs and living as beloved family companions. Although they are not recognized by the AKC, the Mini Labradoodle is recognized by other canine registries. A Mini Labradoodle is a combination of two friendly dog breeds that crave human affection and are always happy to have company. These dogs also tend to have playful, energetic personalities and low prey drives. Well-socialized Mini Labradoodles tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Due to their smaller size, these dogs can be injured by accidental rough play or accidental falls, so any interactions between young kids and puppies should be closely supervised. Miniature Labradoodles will usually bark to alert you when someone is at the door, but generally are not prone to nuisance barking unless they have been trained into it. It may not be a bad idea to train your dog to stop barking early on. Well-socialized Mini Labradoodles may be initially wary of strangers, but tend to warm up quickly and will often be happy to make a new friend. Miniature Labradoodles are highly adaptable. Provided they get enough exercise, attention, and mental stimulation, they can adapt well to apartments as well as larger homes. They tend to do best in moderate climates, but can tolerate warmer or colder climates. As with any dog, they are sensitive to heat. Although they tend to have a fluffier coat, they are also smaller and may need to bundle up in some winter dog products to stay warm while out on walks in the cold. Mini Labradoodles are also very much companion breeds. They bond closely with their families and thrive on being near them, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. The health of the parents and good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of Mini Labradoodle puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done to help allay any concerns you may have. Miniature Labradoodles tend to be highly intelligent and eager to please. This generally makes them easy to train and a good fit for owners of all experience levels. In fact, their parent breeds are considered some of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. These dogs respond best to consistent training and positive reinforcement. Puppy training classes can ensure that owners of any experience level learn the latest training techniques and start building a strong bond with their puppy. Grooming requirements with a Mini Labradoodle can vary. On the Poodle side, you have a low-shedding, but high-maintenance, coat that needs daily brushing along with trimming and grooming every weeks. On the Lab side, you have a higher shedding coat that is more low-maintenance, requiring some weekly brushing or brushing a few times a week and intermittent bathing. Overall, Mini Labradoodles range from having a non- to low-shedding coat. They can have one coat type or the other, or a combination of both of them. So, you will want to be prepared for brushing a coat a few times a week and the possibility of more grooming needs. Regardless of coat type, there are some other general grooming tasks you can count on. Regular dental care for your dog will help prevent serious dental issues like gum disease and tooth decay later in life. This is especially important for dog breeds with floppy ears as they are more prone to developing ear infections. Miniature Labradoodles can be high-energy dogs. In general, they require daily walks plus some playtime and extra activity to be happy and healthy. Since they love to be around their family and can have an exuberant and outgoing personality, they will likely be up for more playtime if you are. This little dog may get tired more easily at times and could push themselves too far in their excitement. On the other hand, they may just keep going and going with no signs of slowing down. What is most important is making sure your Miniature Labradoodle gets enough exercise and mental stimulation. Fully-grown Mini Labradoodles usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Miniature Labradoodles generally live for years on average. Featured Mini Labradoodle Article. Like both their parents, these dogs are smart, friendly and fairly active. Can we meet in person? Have they been socialised? They are highly intelligent, super friendly and easy to train. We have a perfect litter of 5 Labradoodle pups. Both parents have been DNA tested and cleared of any genetic diseases. Mum is our much loved family dog. Dad is a handsome stud red moyen poodle. They will be low shedding and roughly labrador height or smaller. They have been raised in a country family environment in the beautiful Macedon Ranges. They are also crate trained and have started toilet training. The have grown up with children playing with them, 3 adult dogs and already use a doggy door. Our puppies are lovingly raised by our family as well as their mums up to the day they leave for their new forever homes. Puppies will be vet health checked, vaccinated and microchipped at 6 weeks of age. They have been wormed regularly. We can also assist with interstate travel arrangement if required. Will not reply to generic messages. Don't message me wanting me to email you. Mature kilos. References available. Video calls welcomed. Pictures of pups, siblings. Microchipped and vaccinated. She's such a pleasure and has brought me so much joy so far. I've had smart dogs b4 like a Belgian shephard and a border collie, but she is the most intelligent dog by far. You did such a fantastic job and have her the best start in life and it really shows how much time and love you put into your puppies. So thank you for that. I'm so grateful for her. She loves to play indoor soccer and dance with me that's with two legs! He loves to fetch, find and jump. They are my pets. Both DNA tested and cleared of genetic diseases by Orivet. Results are available. Puppies are wormed at 2, 4, 6, 8 weeks, and then monthly. They are raised indoor. They will grow up to be large dogs between kg, cm tall. They are playful, affectionate, friendly, loyal, and intelligent. Crate and potty mat training commenced at 3 weeks old. At 7 weeks old, they have learnt to sit and wait for me to say "eat". They receive daily hugs and kisses, and physical and mental stimulations. Fed Advance or Black Hawk kibble. Fleece coat with low shedding. Coat colour may change as they age. Each come with a toy, blanket, and a bag of kibble. Please call only. Happy to do Facetime, Google Meet, or Zoom. Hau Labradoodle puppies for sale I have seven F1 Labradoodle puppies looking for their forever homes. Labradoodle puppies are a great option for those who suffer from allergies as they shed much less hair than most other dogs. DOB: 16th June puppies will be ready to go to new homes from 12th August, Both parents have had full breed specific DNA testing through Orivet and are cleared for passing on any congenital conditions. Reports are avaliable upon request. Dad, a Standard Poodle weighs approx. Puppies are expected to reach somewhere in between once fully grown. Girls will be on the smaller side. Mum and Dad are family pets and are available for viewing upon request. Happy to assist with pet transport interstate if required additional charges apply Please contact me to arrange a time to come and meet these beautiful treasures. I am a member of the Responsible Pet Breeders Australia-my membership number is .Our puppies have non shedding and allergy friendly coats that are easy care for. Please phone send me a message or email discholl icloud. We are happy ,playful healthy dogs,we are family dogs ,very friendly and easy to train due to blood line of Labrador in the breed. I want to make sure these puppies are going to good family home where they will be treated like family member. For more information please contact me and we can organise to inspect the dogs. Both parents are Orivet-tested F1 Labradoodles clear of genetic diseases - affectionate, intelligent, loyal and active family pets both looove playing fetch and weigh just under 18kg. They also share life with a 10yo Rhodesian Ridgeback. The pups are well socialised already and accustomed to all the usual happenings around the home mowing, blower, etc and other dogs. Non-shedding, sweet and playful! Mother is a Labradoodle, father is a Groodle. Standard size between kg. Both male and female pups are still available. Bred in our family home, lots of love, cuddles, and playtime. All puppies will have had de-worming, microchipping, and vaccinations up to date. Looking for loving families, price negotiable to a suitable home. Laura Cooper Gojo I was gifted a this puppy but due to how busy I am, I would like to find him a new home that will care for him and give him the attention he deserves. I will provide the toys, lead and collar I have already brought him Sebastian Brown Double Doodle Groodle x Labradoodle pups 8 weeks Boho Oodles has 2 beautiful Double Doodle Groodle x Labradoodle female puppies ready for their fur-ever homes. They can be collected from Brisbane or transported interstate additional cost. She is very sweet and affectionate and would be great for a family with small children or someone looking for a companion. She will be ready for her home mid Sept after she has completed 28 days of puppy training. Please enquire if you'd like more information on what it means to be a Boho Guardian family. Looking for forever home. Fun loving family pet great with kids. Minimum shedding. They have been microchipped and vet checked. Vaccinated and wormed every 2 weeks since birth. Will grow to aprox 15kg. Looking for family home with lots of cuddles. Great loyal companion dogs. Mum is a pure chocolate Labrador and Dad is a pure black standard poodle. Well socialised at home with children, being handled daily. Toileting on puppy pads. They are all vet checked and are in good health. Located in Burpengary, also happy to help with transport. Unlike a multigen, F1 Is the initial cross between a purebred labrador and purebred poodle. F1 labradoodles are usually a low shedding dog. Our dogs: Mabel, our beautiful Dam, is a purebred golden labrador with a loyal, loving and gentle temperament. He boasts gorgeous parti colouring and a sweet and beautiful temperament. Puppies will be medium sized dogs. Available puppies: 1. Black boy 3. Chocolate boy 5. Black boy 7. Black boy Inclusions: Microchipped, wormed, vaccinated. Soft toy, Australian made collar by Native Collars, natural fibre blanket. Puppy growth history and vet report, puppy rearing information. Meet and greet from 4 weeks of age. Mable is a special part of our family and these puppies are handled daily, well socialised and loved. They will be weaned and ready for their new homes on Friday 7th July. Meet and greet available from 8th June. Our puppies will not be desexed. We choose not to desex until 9 months of age due to the important role that hormone production plays in the long term health of a dog. It is our recommendation that you consult your vet to discuss appropriate timing. We are looking for loving, forever homes for these precious pups, matching the puppies personality to you, as they will become part of your family. Please send us a message telling us about yourself and we will be happy to answer any questions. Mum has also been hip and elbow scored. Available in the litter are : 1 x chocolate female, 1 x black male3 x black females. Our puppies are well socialised and handled extensively every day to ensure they make great family members. Pups will be microchipped and vaccinated, as well as flea and worm treated. They will come with a Puppy food pack as well as 6 weeks free Pet Insurance. Ready to go from 17 June. If you do not want a pup, or your not per cent on adding a pup to your pack, please do not message me. We have male and females available. Pups were born on the 3rd of April and will be ready to leave for their new homes on the 28th of May. Mum is a standard poodle who has been DNA cleared, and dad is a chocolate labrador that has also been DNA cleared, along with hip and elbow scored. B These pups will only go to the very best of homes. Pictures are of pups and previous litters, so you can see coat type. These guys will have hair coats with minimal shedding. All pups are raised within our family environment and will have been exposed to all the sounds of everyday life. Pups are wormed every two weeks. Please contact me to express your interest. We strive to achieve an all round pup with personality and temperament being our number one goal to ensure your new pack member is a good fit into your lifestyle. You have 8 weeks to get you and your pack ready for your newest pack member. Pickup is in Mudgee NSW, puppies can be transported across Australia through jet pets or I can meet in a surrounding suburb close to Mudgee. Litter of seven large medium to standard size black Cobberdog Labradoodle puppies, as per photos. Remaining pups are ready to go NOW! They were microchipped, vaccinated and health checked including full physical by our vet on .If you believe you can provide a wonderful forever home for one of these beautiful puppies, please message with your email contact details and we'll send you an application form. Application forms need to be completed in full in order for you to be considered. Mum and Dad are our forever pets; we are not in the dog breeding industry. Dad has since been desexed and Mum will be as soon as pups are fully weaned, therefore this is a one and only opportunity to share your home with one of these stunning babies. The pups are being sold as pets only and a desexing contract will be required. They are expected to have fleece coats and mature around 8 - 15kg. Mum is a black labrador and dad is a 5kg black and white parti poodle who carries the dominant curly coat gene which he passes to his pups. We've sourced our dogs from all over Australia, tested their DNA and conduct regular vet testing. We take breeding healthy pups really seriously and spend all our time making sure both pups and parents have the best environment possible. You are welcome to visit and meet the pups or they can be delivered to Canberra airport for interstate travel if required airflight to be organised by buyer. We are an experienced breeder with over 15 yrs of breeding experience. We are also a vet audited member of RPBA which means we have passed very strict and comprehensive criteria for the care of our animals. Our dogs are part of our family. There are lots of pictures on their to show what these pups' siblings have looked like when grown up - We are very proud grandparents! We have medium and small second generation girls and boys. Colours available are red, black and two-toned phantom. Puppies coats will be fleece or wool. Minimal shedding and hypoallergenic. They will go to their new homes vet checked, microchipped, vaccinated, wormed and with a puppy pack. We are located in Port Stephens which is 30 minutes from Newcastle or 90 minutes from Sydney. Please contact us to arrange a visit or FaceTime for interstate buyers. They will be toilet trained on artificial grass. Labradoodles are great for living indoors or outdoors and are very low shedding. They come with a puppy pack including toys, puppy food, blanket with mums scent on it for an easier transition into its new home etc. Will also been socialised with people and other pets to help them with social skills and playtime. We live on 5 acres and have lots of room for parents and puppies to run around and play I can help with organising interstate transport and we do video calls to help you find your perfect furbaby. We are looking for loving homes for our gorgeous puppies where they will get the attention, love and training they need. Please feel free to call or message me for more information, or if you would like addition pictures. We take great pride in producing and providing high quality puppies for families looking for their new furbaby. We are situated on 5 acres and have lots of room for our dogs and puppies to run around amd grow up in. Puppies are all socialised with people and our other pets and different noises to help them adapt to this new world they live in. We offer 6 weeks free Pet Insurance, desexing voucher and a 12 months genetic health guarantee. These puppies will be medium size with very low shedding, this makes them great for any family and also great for indoors. They suit any type of family, older families and even families with younger children. The great thing about Bordoodles is that they can be out and about walking and exercising with you or they are happy to chill out at home. They are the perfect family member. They will be toilet trained on artificial grass and they will come with a puppy pack including toys, food, blanket with mums scent on it for an easier transition into their new loving homes and other goodies. We are happy to do personal viewings or video calls and for interstate buyers we can also help you organise transport with our breeders discount. Viewings for prospective forever homes will be conducted at our home when puppies are 4 weeks old. Puppies will be vet checked , vaccinated , wormed and microchipped before going to their new homes. Pups will be weaned onto Blackhawk premium puppy food. They are bought up in our home around humans, cats and general household noises. Photo of mum black labrador, Dad standard poodle so adult weight should be appropriately kg other photo pups at 1 week old and 4 weeks old Full member RPBA and current vet audited premisesCall me directly with any questions and to book a viewing appointmentAnn Ann Letch.

German Shepherds, like other dogs, have a day gestational period. It is approximately nine weeks of total pregnancy, but a female German Shepherd can give birth as soon as 58 days or as late as 68 days. This day difference in the average length of German Shepherd gestation may vary depending on the number of puppies and the size of the mother. To put it simply, the more puppies there are, the longer it takes, and vice versa. In some cases, a pregnant German Shepherd may only have one puppy, while huge litters might produce up to 15 puppies. Generally, in canines, preterm delivery is uncommon, and most pregnant dogs deliver their puppies at full term. However, being a few days earlier or later is normal and is frequently caused by a wrong assessment of the date when a female German Shepherd becomes pregnant. Furthermore, if you know when your German Shepherd has mated, you can use a dog pregnancy calculator to acquire an accurate estimate of its due date. Many breeders or even seasoned owners find it difficult to tell if their German Shepherd is pregnant, especially in the early pregnancy stages. Furthermore, unlike humans, there is no at-home pregnancy test for animals. Veterinarians perform ultrasounds between 25 and 35 days of gestation. They will analyze the levels of relaxin , a pregnancy hormone that is taken throughout the breeding process, using a blood sample from dogs. The veterinarian will determine the exact number of German Shepherd puppies in the womb 55 days or more after breeding. Abdominal Palpation: It is a traditional way to detect pregnancy of German Shepherds. It is done around the 28 to day mark by looking for uterine swellings that indicate the existence of developing puppies. Although German Shepherds are independent during pregnancy, there are still a lot of preparations you must make before the puppies are delivered. Generally, the average age for a German Shepherd to get pregnant is around two years old, but it can be as early as five months old. Additionally, because German Shepherds are a large breed, it takes them a while to fully mature before getting pregnant. So, they must be at least 18 months old if you plan to breed them. Once they reach full maturity, German Shepherds can be pregnant during the fertilization period in the second stage of their heat cycle. The heat cycle of female dogs consists of proestrus , estrus , diestrus , and anestrus. During the proestrus stage, female dogs begin to attract males, which will last for nine days. Meanwhile, during estrus, a female dog is marked as available to a male dog, usually lasting for three to four days. Then, the diestrus is the final day of the reproductive cycle when the female dog will no longer permit mating. However, like other large dog breeds, a German Shepherd Dog has its first heat cycle in the latter months. Thus, there is no precise date at which it can get pregnant. Yet, you can expect your dog to be pregnant when it is six months old because it is when the anestrus phase occurs. It is the time elapsed between one heat cycle and the next. That said, knowing the four stages of the heat cycle is important for estimating how long German Shepherds are pregnant. Week 1 Within a few days after breeding, the sperm reaches the eggs, and fertilization occurs. Week 2 Fertilized egg cells will begin to develop, separate, and descend towards the uterus for implantation between the 12 and day mark during the second week. There will be no physical changes to the German Shepherd, but it will become either more affectionate or irritated. Therefore, getting your female dog groomed is advised to lessen its stress. Week 3 During the third week, the embryos will begin to travel to the uterine horns to embed themselves in the uterine wall. The embryos will continue to develop while receiving essential nutrients within the womb through the uterine lining. Some body parts, including the placenta and nervous system, will develop on the 18th day. The placenta will be fully formed by the end of this week. In addition, your German Shepherd may gain weight, and its abdomen might begin to swell. If you notice these changes, confer with your veterinarian, who will provide veterinary advice about the right food and diet plan for your pet. Week 4 This week is the most critical stage when a fetus develops facial features, limbs, and vital organs. So, your German Shepherd must avoid rough play and serve its food in smaller portions. This is also the optimal time to bring your German Shepherd for an ultrasound after the 25th day to know how many puppies your dog expects. Week 5 The fetuses develop their sex organs and begin to resemble actual puppies during this period. On day 35, all major organs of the puppies should already have developed. Thus, a pregnant GSD might increase her weight by 20 to 50 percent as it has growing puppies in its abdomen. Therefore, it will need more calories and nutrients than usual. Furthermore, it will avoid normal routines like walking and become more sensitive because of discomfort. Week 6 The puppies develop more rapidly and should have their skin colors. Their eyes remain closed but have lids, claws form, and their heads begin to grow hair for the first time. Furthermore, your female dog will be more uncomfortable and may occasionally vomit because of the increased pressure on its stomach. There will also be clear vaginal discharge, which is completely normal. It will also decrease appetite and produce a clear and odorless vaginal discharge. Furthermore, preparing a whelping box for your female dog to nest in and give birth within the next few weeks should be done during this period. Week 8 Puppies have grown fur and are swarmed into the uterus, moving towards the birth canal. Also, your German Shepherd Dog will spend the majority of its time in the whelping box digging in the bedding. It will also feel restless as its body grows, so give your dog the comfort and attention it needs, especially when it is in pain. You can also get an X-ray examination to determine how many puppies your German Shepherd will have. Week 9 During the last week of pregnancy, the puppies are now fully developed and ready to be born, moving toward the birth canal. You will notice that your German Shepherd may appear uncomfortable, restless, or anxious during this stage. Keep an eye on your dog as it seeks a safe place to give birth. To make your dog feel at ease and to avoid stress, keep your house clean and quiet. Afterward, you must start taking its rectal temperature every 12 hours. In this way, you always obtain the best possible outcomes and perhaps get to meet your litter of healthy puppies. German Shepherd Pregnancy Signs Apart from the fact that conception is unpredictable and varies from dog to dog, no noticeable physical changes occur during the early stages of pregnancy. Nevertheless, similar to people, there are some early signs and symptoms that can indicate if a German Shepherd is pregnant: Change in appetite. When your German Shepherd gives birth, it will be the happiest day of your life! But first you should learn about how to help and what to expect. German Shepherds typically deliver between 63 and 70 days after conception, or roughly 10 to 12 weeks from the time of ovulation. During that time, the female dog will often become quieter and less active than usual as she spends more time lying down and resting. You might also notice her nipples growing larger and darker as your German Shepherd prepares to feed her newborn puppies. What will my pregnant German Shepherd weigh? On average, pregnant German Shepherds are likely to gain anywhere from pounds during their pregnancy. Not all of that weight will come at once, but most owners report their dog gaining more weight towards the end of her pregnancy. There is a good chance that your puppy will weigh over pounds by when she is ready to give birth. Because of her larger size, some risks are associated with giving birth to large dogs like German Shepherds. If you notice any signs your pet might be in labor, make sure you take her immediately to a veterinarian. Make sure that both mom and puppies are healthy after she has given birth. Can I tell my dog is pregnant by looking at her belly? Most veterinarians can tell if a dog is pregnant by examining her abdomen. Typically, female dogs will experience some physical changes during pregnancy. For example, the vulva will become larger and more prominent, and she may leak clear or yellowish fluid. If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, such as leaking vaginal fluids or waddling like a penguin, take her to your veterinarian for an examination. What is the maximum number of puppies that a German Shepherd can have? A purebred German Shepherd generally gives birth to fewer puppies owing to its genetic makeup. According to a Norwegian Kennel Club study conducted in , the average litter size for a German Shepherd is 5. A German Shepherd generally only has a couple of fertile days; the mating period during those two days goes a long way in determining the number of puppies that a single litter shall yield. What should you feed your pregnant German Shepherd? Your pregnant German Shepherd will require nutrition that it might not receive through traditional dog foods. Regardless of the kind of food that you feed your German Shepherd during pregnancy, you must not take any chances with the nutrition. Dog owners often think that there is not much difference between canine and human nutrition; the truth is that dog nutrition is a lot more complicated and might not be fulfilled using supplementary pills. If you are unclear about the diet you should feed your dog, it is best to consult professional breeders. Can you play with your gestating German Shepherd? Your German Shepherd can and should be played with throughout pregnancy. By exercising, your dog will maintain their strength and health. In addition, make sure that your dog does not run around too much, as it might impact the birthing region of the body. First, we would like to sign off by stressing the importance of working with a capable veterinarian throughout this phase to minimize the risk of complications. Discover how to create a joyful, healthy home for your pet. Subscribe to your weekly rundown of practice, real life ideas and training tips straight to your inbox. We offer practical, real life ideas and training tips for a joyful experince, with your pet. All rights reserved. Final Thoughts How to Prepare for Your German Shepherd Giving Birth German Shepherds are truly great pets, and preparation for your dog giving birth will be one of the most important things you do for her throughout the birth process. But first, take a look at this incredible 3-minute video of a German Shepherd giving birth. Nature is truly amazing: German Shepherd giving birth incredible video Even though dogs are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to the actual birth, there are still plenty of things you will need to do to get her ready and get the area ready where she will be giving birth. Talk to Your Vet The best way to be proactive in the success of your German Shepherd giving birth will be to have frequent discussions with your vet and maintain an open line of communication with them. In any case, once you suspect your dog is pregnant, you will need to take her to your vet for regular check-ups. Ensuring her overall health is the crucial first step. Your vet will conduct a thorough exam and alert you to anything you need to be aware of. As with pregnant humans, health concerns are elevated during gestation, so be sure to take your mom-to-be to the vet straight away and continue to monitor her throughout the pregnancy. Be sure to ask your vet any questions or concerns you may have about caring for your German Shepherd during the coming months and the birth itself. They will give specifics for your dog and anything else you need to be aware of. The third trimester is when the pups develop rapidly, and your girl will need more calories for energy, depending on how many pups she is carrying. You should gradually transition this, and the feeding schedule should be little and often aid digestion. But if your vet specified anything additional due to an individual circumstance for your GSD, always adhere to their instructions. Having the checklist ready is an essential step to making sure you are ready. And remember, you will want this checklist to include everything you may need before, during, and after the birth. That will also include emergency items that you hopefully will not need but should have ready. Standard Supplies: Clean sheets, towels, and blankets You will want to have some of the blankets around the mom. They will help keep her warm and feeling safe and secure. If she has a favorite blanket or an old shirt of yours that she loves to snuggle up with, use those. But you will also need additional towels and blankets ready for the little pups after birth. Ensuring they are all warm and cozy after the birth will be, first and foremost. A pile of German Shepherd puppies bundled up with mom surrounded by comfort blankets is also just really adorable. Heating Pad or Heat Lamp Newborn puppies are unable to regulate their body temperature. The new mama understands this and will do her best to keep her pups warm using her body temperature and cuddling them close. But having a heating pad or lamp ready to go will help keep the space warm for the newborns. If you opt for a heating pad, you can place it underneath the towels and blankets where the puppies lie. It also has loads of temperature settings and timer settings, giving you plenty of options. If you opt for a lamp, be sure it is far enough away not to be too hot and burn the puppies. Place your hand underneath it to gauge where it gives a subtle warmth without causing your hand to feel hot. I prefer a heating pad as it just seems the safer option. Whelping Box and Mat To prepare for whelping, a whelping box will be required for the German Shepherd puppies to snuggle up in after the birth while the mom is recovering. You can purchase a large basket or make one yourself using a large cardboard box. German Shepherd puppies, on average, weigh around 0. As we know, German Shepherds seem to go from adorable 2-pound pups to majestic pound protectors in the blink of an eye. So, knowing how much they weighed after birth and monitoring their weight gain throughout their infancy is an essential step to proper health. There is no need to take them directly from mom and plop them onto a scale straight away. Give them time. But have it ready to take their weights within the first day or so. According to VCA Hospitals, the area where the puppies are kept should be between degrees for the first four days. Then gradually decrease the temperature to 80 degrees by the 7th — 10th day, and finally, 72 degrees by the end of the fourth week. Emergency Supplies: Baby Nose Suction Bulb Sometimes newborn puppies have built-up mucus around their nose, and the mucus causes breathing troubles. The mom will do her best to lick it away, but if you see one of the German Shepherd puppies still struggling with taking breaths, you need to have a baby nose suction bulb , such as this one from Amazon, ready to go. Gently swaddle the puppy and use the bulb carefully to suction the mucus out and hold him for a while after, massaging his chest very gently. Gloves, Sterilized Scissors, Thread, and Antiseptic Solution Typically, the mom will cut the umbilical cord herself by biting through it. Once tied off, ensure the end of the cord is cleaned with antiseptic. Cleanliness during this is critical, so a pair of medical gloves and a clean workspace are essential. Soft Travel Crate Hopefully, the birth goes smoothly, and there is no need to take your German Shepherd to the vet during it. But if there is an emergency or you have any concerns, always call your vet or nearest animal hospital immediately. Have the crate by the door with plenty of cozy blankets and familiar smells ready to go if you need to transport your GSD. This is never an ideal situation, so it should be avoided whenever possible, but under emergency circumstances, you may need an impromptu trip to the vet. Pro Tip! Use the buddy system. If you need to take your German Shepherd to the vet during birth, it will help to have someone with you. Consider asking a few close friends or relatives. They can drive while you sit in the back with your girl to comfort her. This is going to be a scary moment for your German Shepherd, and she will appreciate being able to have you by her side. Ensure the Environment is Clean and Comforting You will take much of this care during the prep stage. You will be placing clean towels down, ensuring everything is sterilized and ready for the momentous occasion. But during the birth itself, you will want to help maintain that environment. Here are a few things to consider that will help you make this a comfortable environment for your German Shepherd: Have familiar sights and smells around, such as toys, soft clothing, and blankets that she likes. If there are open windows and loud noises, shut the windows and do everything you can to limit the amount of noise and distractions around her. Give words of encouragement occasionally in a soft and soothing voice, letting her know she is doing great. In between puppies, she will need a breather. Make sure she is supported and comfort her during these breaks. Your German Shepherd will begin nesting behavior during the onset of labor, and her temperature will drop. She will become restless and may refuse food, pant, pace, shake, or vomit. But how do you know when the birth is imminent? You will see clear fluid from her vulva before the first birth. The first puppy should be delivered within minutes of hard straining. Giving Your German Shepherd Space During the Birth Oddly enough, one of the best ways to care for your German Shepherd during her birth journey will be to leave her alone. All dogs are instinctual in ways that amaze us mere humans. GSDs are also incredibly smart. So, between their instincts and intelligence, they have a knack for understanding what to do during and after giving birth. They will know what is best for their health, as well as the health of their newborns. Interfering too much during birth can cause frustration and even anger in your German Shepherd. While she will most likely understand you are trying to help — she knows best, and she will need her space. Once you have completed all preparations and have done all that you can from your end, the best thing you can do is sit back and enjoy the incredible experience of watching your German Shepherd Dog give birth. Be Ready When She Needs You Part of sitting back and watching as your German Shepherd gives birth is also knowing that she may need you, and, if so — be ready. If you have done the proper preparations, everything will be ready in case of an emergency or even a small hiccup. Here are some warning signs to be aware of as you watch the process and when you need to intervene: Your GSD has shown signs of going into labor, including a temperature below degrees, and does not end up going into labor within 24 hours. A puppy has only come halfway out, and mom seems to be struggling. She appears to be in pain, and is yelping or crying. One of her breaks in between puppies lasts more than 4 hours, and you know there are more pups to come. Typically, a long break will happen halfway through, which can be up to 4 hours. But past that, there could be something wrong. She is having contractions for more than 45 minutes without another puppy coming. If there is something more complicated, you will need to take your girl to the vet. This is another reason the buddy system is a great step to take. Now what? A big part of the preparation is to ensure that everything is ready for the new mom and pups once she is done. She is going to be exhausted, needing lots of rest and love. And the newborns will be adorable little helpless creatures that need their canine mom and their human mom or dad too! Making sure they all stay home, clean, and healthy is the number one priority after birth. During your discussions with your vet, this should be something that is covered. Your vet will offer specifics if there are particular health concerns for your German Shepherd. But otherwise, they will have general guidelines to keep the new family safe and sound. Once your German Shepherd has had enough time to recuperate and seems to be doing well after the last birth, take her outside to urinate and get some fresh air. She may not want to, as she wants to stay with her newborns, but encourage her to go outside for a quick pee and move around. Next, try to get her to drink some water and see if she has an appetite. At this point, all the puppies should be warm and snuggled in the whelping box. Let Mom join them and begin nursing them. They are going to be hungry, sleepy, and hungry again. Your job is to make sure the pups are getting enough food from Mom, and that mom is getting enough rest to care for them properly. If your German Shepherd stops producing milk for a while, you will need to have supplements and formula on hand so you can feed them yourself from a bottle. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are smart, instinctual, and fiercely protective. They also make amazing moms. And they know exactly what they need to do during the birth of their puppies. We hope this article has given you confidence in knowing what to do when your German Shepherd is giving birth. You will know when you are needed, and you will have everything ready to go from your checklist if she tags you in. You will soon be hugging those little bundles of joy and wondering what to name them. This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to constitute pet medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment for your pet. Please consult a licensed veterinarian in your area for pet medical advice. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. Puppies If your German Shepherd is pregnant or you are planning on breeding you may be wondering how many puppies can a German Shepherd have. The amount of puppies each German Shepherd has will vary on many different factors. This article will answer dive into the factors to help you better predict the number of puppies your GSD will have. Generally, you can expect a German Shepherd to have between 5 and 8 puppies per litter. However, German Shepherds have had litters as large as 14 and as small as only 1. There are many factors that contribute to the size of the litter. A German Shepherd can have puppies twice a year. Large dogs like German Shepherds go into heat around every 6 months. During their heat is when they are capable of becoming pregnant. A normal heat cycle lasts between two and four weeks long. Thus, if you breeders or individuals who are looking to breed their GSD track their heat timing and plan to have them mate during their heat. German Shepherds are pregnant for nine weeks on average. Factors That Affect German Shepherd Littler Size Although it is normal for a German Shepherd to have between five and eight puppies a litter, there are many factors that can increase or decrease the litter size. The most common factors are below: The size of the female dog The size of the dog has a big impact of how many puppies they can carry. Although German Shepherds are considered to be a large dog breed some female German Shepherds are larger than others. A female GSD that is larger will be able to carry more pups than a smaller one. Inbreeding Another factor that can contribute to litter size is inbreeding. A pregnancy that is the result of inbreeding will generally produce less puppies than one that is not. Accordingly, if you want to increase your GSD litter size make sure not to bred a female with a male that is related. The age of female The age of the female German Shepherds also plays a role in their potential litter size. Older German Shepherds will generally have smaller litters. The prime age to breed a GSD is between 2 and 5 years of age. You should not breed an elderly GSD. Just like with human males, the sperm count of male German Shepherds will decrease as they age. This decrease can make it harder for them to get a female pregnant and can also impact the litter size if they do get a female GSD pregnant. Health of the female Another factor that is important is the overall health of the female German Shepherd. In order for any dog to produce a healthy plentiful litter of puppies the dog carrying the pups has to be in prime health. Leading up to pregnancy your dog should be fed a high-quality diet, and during pregnancy a GSD will require a diet in that a certain amount of protein, fat and carbohydrates to ensure a health pregnancy. Additionally, pregnant German Shepherds can sometimes need dietary supplements if they are not getting the appropriate nutrients through their diet. Conclusion There are many factors that impact how many puppies German Shepherds can have. Most commonly German Shepherds will have between five and eight puppies, but age, health, and inbreeding can cause a GSD to bear a smaller litter. Breeders who are looking to increase litter size will need to make sure that all those controllable factors are in line and let nature do the rest. Gestation length according to accurate hormone measurements in dogs Please note that these values are averages and individual dogs may have slight variations. Getting Ready for Delivery Before giving birth to its babies, a female German shepherd begins exploring private and safe places for her puppies this process is called nesting. For the comfort of the mother and the safety of the puppy, keep some blankets and towels in the whelping box. She begins to spend more time in her nest. This way you will not have to distribute her puppies in hidden places. Taking Care of German shepherd Puppies Newborns cannot see or hear until 5 to 8 days of age. Puppies do not stand until at least 2 to 4 weeks of age. Same for the barking behavior. If left in the litter or orphaned, or if its mother is unable to produce enough milk, or if the suckle reflex for the puppy is poor, ask your vet for the Lactose-Free weaning milk prescribed for German Shepherd Puppies. Check if the temperature is warm enough as the puppies cannot control their temperature at this stage. You do not need to bathe them this time, because the mother GSD cleans her litter by constantly pressing. If the puppies are orphaned, you can wash them gently using a warm and damp cloth. Mothers for German shepherds , depending on her experience and the size of the litter, work an average of 6 to 18 hours, usually to deliver puppies. When new contractions begin, arrange the already-born puppies with a heating pad fitted in a small box and keep them away until the next puppy is born. Immediately after birth, check that each puppy is breathing properly. Observe closely their movements to make sure there are no faded puppies. German shepherd giving birth for the first time Usually, after birth, the mother cuts the umbilical cord and cleans the puppies by gently pressing their bodies. She starts with the genitals, then the legs complete with the rest of the body. She may not do so if she has no experience, or when she is exhausted after childbirth. This colostrum is very nutritious for babies. Hygiene Mother GSD, by licking its genital area, encourages her litter to urinate or defecate, but if left in the litter, you should stimulate them with potty cleaning essentials because new-borns cannot do this on their own till the first 2 weeks of life. Gently massage the anal area using a damp cotton ball or washcloth. Use a suction bulb syringe if something obstructs the nasal passages of the puppy. Also Read: When do German shepherd ears Stand up naturally? Track the growth and condition of each puppy. Using the Baby Scale, weigh each puppy immediately after birth and log its weight. Healthy German Shepherd puppies weight is about 0. Well-fed puppies sleep quietly, while air-swallowing puppies appear to be well-fed, but behave satisfactorily, initially crying and wandering around a lot, then, not moving enough. German Shepherd puppies are completely weaned and completely independent from their mother by 8 weeks of age, so it is best to train them to avoid behavioral problems. If puppies are not trained to be considered completely stupid, train them now. If necessary, bottle feeding with a canine milk replacement formula can be introduced, following veterinarian guidelines. Puppies should be fed every hours, including overnight. Weaning Introduce a small amount of softened puppy food to start the weaning process. Consult with a veterinarian for appropriate food and feeding guidelines. Start offering puppy food mixed with milk replacement formula, gradually reducing the formula over time. Begin to introduce the puppies to lapping from a shallow dish of water. Socialization Continue handling and gentle interactions to build trust and positive associations with humans. Introduce the puppies to new sounds, sights, and experiences in a controlled and safe manner. Allow supervised playtime with littermates to encourage socialization and development of motor skills. Veterinary Check-up Schedule a veterinary visit for a check-up, deworming, and vaccination recommendations. Hygiene and Cleanliness Clean the whelping area regularly, ensuring a warm, dry, and comfortable environment. Puppies may begin to crawl and explore, so provide a safe space with appropriate bedding. Monitor the puppies for any signs of illness or abnormalities and seek veterinary assistance if necessary. Sleep and Rest Puppies spend most of their time sleeping and should have a designated area for uninterrupted rest. Ensure the sleeping area is quiet, warm, and away from drafts or excessive noise. Provide soft bedding or blankets for comfort. Checklist of essential items for the Newborn German Shepherd Puppies and Mother Here is a list of things newborn German Shepherd puppies and their mother need: For Mom Whelping Box : A safe and comfortable place for a mother to give birth and nurse her puppies. Bedding: soft, clean bedding for the whelping box to keep mother and puppies warm and comfortable. Food and water bowls: Provide easily accessible bowls for the mother to have food and water. High-quality dog food: Provide a balanced and nutritious diet that meets the needs of the mother during pregnancy and lactation. Consult a veterinarian for specific recommendations. Freshwater: Ensure a constant supply of clean, fresh water to keep the mother hydrated. Medical Supplies — Keep a first aid kit on hand that includes items such as wound cleansers, gauze pads, and other basic medical supplies in case of emergencies or complications. For newborn puppies Help Box: A safe and warm environment for puppies to grow and develop. Bedding: Soft, clean bedding to keep pups warm and comfortable. Heat source: A heat lamp or heating pad is set to a low temperature to provide adequate warmth for puppies, since they are initially unable to regulate their body temperatures. Milk Replacement Formula — If nursing is not possible or additional supplementation is required, a high-quality canine milk replacement formula is available. Nursing bottles or syringes — can be used to provide supplementary feeding if puppies are unable to nurse from their mother or if necessary. Weight standard: Check the weight of the puppies regularly to ensure proper growth and development. Vet Contact Information — Have the contact details of a veterinarian with experience caring for puppies handy for any emergencies or questions. Identification bands: Use different colored bands or collars to help distinguish between puppies and track their progress. Socialization and nurturing toys: As puppies get older, introduce appropriate toys and objects to stimulate their senses and encourage early socialization. Remember to consult a veterinarian for personalized recommendations and guidance based on your specific situation and the needs of your German Shepherd mother and puppies. The mother should be given small, frequent meals throughout the day to support her energy requirements while feeding the puppy or during nursing. How often should newborn German Shepherd puppies be nursed? Puppies should nurse from their mother every 1 to 2 hours during the first few weeks of life. They have small stomachs and need frequent feedings to meet their nutritional needs. When should I start introducing solid food to the puppies? Solid food introduction typically begins around 3 to 4 weeks of age. Start by offering softened puppy food mixed with milk replacement formula, gradually transitioning them away from exclusive nursing. Consult with a veterinarian for specific recommendations. How do I keep the whelping area clean? Clean the whelping area regularly to maintain hygiene. Remove soiled bedding promptly, wipe down surfaces, and replace it with fresh, clean bedding. Use pet-safe disinfectants as recommended by your veterinarian. When can I start weaning the puppies from their mother? Weaning usually begins around 3 to 4 weeks of age when puppies start showing interest in solid food. Gradually introduce softened puppy food and reduce the amount of milk replacement formula or nursing sessions. Monitor their progress and consult with a veterinarian for guidance. Final Thoughts In conclusion, newborn German Shepherd puppies and their mother require special care and dedication. Here are some key points to keep in mind: Proper nutrition is very important for mother and puppies. Make sure the mother gets a balanced diet that meets her needs during pregnancy and lactation. Consult a veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations. Newborn babies depend on breast milk for nutrition. Make sure they nurse frequently, usually every 1 to 2 hours to meet their nutritional needs. Monitor their weight gain to make sure they are thriving. Provide a clean and comfortable helping area for mother and baby. Keep the area warm, dry and draft-free. Clean and replace bedding regularly to maintain cleanliness. Gradually introduce solid food to puppies at 3 to 4 weeks of age. Start with soft puppy food and gradually transition them away from exclusive nursing. Check with a veterinarian for specific feeding guidelines. Socialize puppies from an early age. Handle them carefully, expose them to different sights and sounds, and introduce positive human interactions. This helps them develop into well-adjusted and sociable dogs. Look for any illness or abnormalities in the mother or puppies. Seek veterinary help immediately if you notice anything concerning. By providing proper nutrition, a safe environment, and early socialization, you can give newborn German Shepherd puppies the best start in life and ensure the well-being of both mother and her precious offspring.

The long adolescent period that ends the puppy years is highly individual, but most dogs mature somewhere before 3 years of age. The Neonatal Stage This is the very earliest stage your German shepherd will pass through. Simply put, this is the helpless baby stage when your puppy's eyes will still be closed and he is completely dependent upon his mother. She will feed him, wash him and clean up after his accidents for the first two or three weeks. His eyes will open at around 10 days. At this time, your puppy is little more than an eating machine -- filling his belly to help his tiny body grow and develop. The Transitional Stage Though it is short and indistinct, the transitional stage from the neonatal to the socialization stage is important to your pup's development nevertheless. This brief phase -- lasting only about a week after his eyes open -- marks the period when your German shepherd begins to notice his environment. He will start to look at things curiously and be aware of sounds around him. Prior to this he has been in his own little world with no sights or sounds beyond his own body and that of his mother. When his eyes open, the immediate environment -- with other living beings -- is suddenly a part of life that he must face. The Socialization Stage At around 3 weeks, your puppy begins to learn how to interact with others -- both animals and the humans around him. He has already had some practice with dogs through the daily contact with his mother and litter mates, but now he begins to expand his circle of acquaintance to other dogs or cats in the household and to the family of humans around him. This is the most critically important phase in your German shepherd's development and helps decide his later suitability for work in rescue, service or as a family dog. At this time, he should have opportunities to meet as many new animals and faces under differing circumstances as possible, so he becomes comfortable with meeting people and other animals in a variety of situations when he grows up. This stage lasts to about 3 months of age and is the period when puppies are at their most impressionable and playful. The Juvenile Stage From 3 to 6 months old, your puppy will begin to look beyond the biological world of dogs, cats and people to the larger world around him. He will want to explore new places more than new faces at this point -- which may often get him into trouble. This is an active and trying age for puppy parents. Your puppy looks like a mostly grown-up dog but behaves entirely like a pup. His attention span is about as long as that of the average teenager, so this is not a particularly easy time for obedience classes. Your shepherd will have other things on his mind, but pet parents should continue to persevere because this is the best stage to resolve any obvious aggression or anxiety issues your pup may display. If those issues are not addressed early, they could become larger problems later on. To make things a tad more difficult, at around 5 months of age, your German shepherd starts to mature sexually. The Adolescent Stage The teenage angst that human children go through is roughly equivalent to what pet parents can expect from their adolescent German shepherd. Beginning with the onset of sexual maturity and lasting through the first two years of his life, your puppy's hormones will rage uncontrollably unless he is neutered early. This stage is usually marked by mounting -- anything and everything -- marking his territory and even fighting with other male dogs. Females will enter their first estrus period at this time and may try to escape the yard or otherwise pose problems. The pup's body has become adult, and his brain is fully alert and capable, but his emotions are still in the turbulent transitional phase from teenager to full adult. If he were human, this would be the stage at which you would hide the car keys. As an adult, your German shepherd is finally the calm, dignified, courageous and respectful dog you always knew he would grow up to be. If you were patient and dedicated through those early, sometimes difficult, years, you now have a well-trained and disciplined companion for life. More Articles. Are male and female German shepherds different? The Neonatal Period. Birth-2 Weeks. In the first two weeks of their life your puppy is mostly helpless and fully dependant on their mother. Their mother will be responsible for feeding, eliminating waste and keeping them warm. The puppies will be able to taste, touch and feel warmth but their eyes and ears are sealed shut. You should see the following milestones hit in the first two weeks. What you should expect to see: Puppies Starting to Crawl Eyes and ears starting to open Teeth starting to appear By the end of the first two weeks your puppies should be able to stand up, albeit a little shakily and have their eyes and ears fully open. The Transitional Period. They will start to be able to control their body and temperature much better. They will start to interact with their litter mates but will still be largely dependent on their mother. What you should expect to see: Puppies Walking Well Puppies Interacting with you and their littermates Puppy teeth almost complete. The Socialisation Period 4weeks — 3 months The puppies will now have complete control of their body and will start exploring the world around them. The latter half of this period is the ideal time to rehome the puppies as this is when they are most susceptible to learning new things and they can start to be taught basic commands. Between weeks your puppy may start to display signs of some fearfulness. This is perfectly normal and will need to be nurtured Not encouraged by you. What you should expect to see: Start showing adult behaviours Wagging tails, sniffing bums Start to be able to be taught basic commands Ears begin to sit upright. The Juvenile Period 3months-6months Your German Shepherd puppy will become much more independent during this period. They will start to understand dominance and will explore their home to understand where their position is in the household. What you should expect to see: Female puppies begin heat cycles Ears now fully upright Males reach sexual maturity The Adolescence Period 6monthsmonths Most of your puppies social understanding and behaviours will have developed by this point but a reinforcement of these is still important. Your puppy will be at their most energetic and will require a structured training routine to help them to continue to develop. Males are considered fully grown at 36months whereas females reach this mark around 24months. You will know have an excellent, loyal family pet and companion to spend many years together with. German Shepherds are a medium-large breed. Females will grow to around inches and weigh lbs whereas the males will grow to around inches and weigh lbs. How many puppies is there in the average German Shepherd litter? German Shepherd litters Usually consist of between 5 and 10 puppies. How long do German shepherds live? The average life span for a German Shepherd is somewhere between 9 and 14 years. Other than the size difference already discussed females tend to be more affectionate than males where is male dogs are usually more protective of their surroundings and their families. Related Posts. Puppyhood The first growth phase — puppyhood — has six development stages. During each of these stages, a puppy learns a lot of things. Neonatal Stage This period lasts from birth to 13 days. The puppy needs a lot of nursing from its mom because it is rather helpless. Its ears and eyes are closed, so it does not have any senses. The little pups should completely rely on their mothers for nourishment and care. By 2 weeks, they double their birth weight. They start crawling, and then their eyes and ears begin to open. The first milk teeth appear. The puppy can even stand up, but too unstably and shakily. This makes it possible for little ones to hear, smell, and taste. They even try to walk. Their baby teeth continue growing. The period between weeks is also called a transitional one. At the end of the third week, the motor skills start developing fast. The puppy can already control its temperature and body, namely, bowel movements. It begins to interact with its littermates. Nevertheless, the pup is still largely dependent on its mother. Though, you can interact with it. At the end of this period, the little cub is ready to explore the world. Its baby teeth are almost complete, and it can stand up more stably. It starts barking and growling a bit. The puppy grows quickly now. It actively interacts with its littermates. The baby dog can walk, and its baby teeth are complete. You can also consider the German Shepherd behavior stages from now. Its mental development starts because it discovers the world actively with its senses. Its walking improves, and it can make attempts to run, so it can even sometimes get in trouble. The puppy can start eating dog food. That is why it is important to begin weaning. The little one can recognize and greet its littermates and people, get interested in new things, and continue to explore the world. However, at this age, the first fear period can be experienced. Read our detailed guide about 6 week old German Shepherd puppy. It is the best period for taking your pet home. This period can be psychologically traumatic, so be careful not to expose the pet to direct sunlight because it may be afraid of it for its entire life. All the fears need your special attention. You need to nurture, but not encourage them. Read our detailed guide about 2 month old German Shepherd puppy. So, your puppy is three months old now. It is playful and active. Its teeth are complete. It is weaned and eats dog food. The feeding recommendation here is the overall one and a half cups, three times a day. It is also time to get your pet vaccinated against distemper and parvovirus. At the end of the third month, your little GSD can simulate its behavior after other dogs and humans. Training can start. Read our detailed guide about 3 month old German Shepherd puppy. Your puppy already has all its baby teeth, and adult canines and incisors begin to push through. It can even try to bite or nip you. The puppy coat begins to disappear and gets ready for replacement by the adult double-layer coat. You can see a racing stripe on its spine where the adult hair will grow. The puppy displays quick growth at this time, and it becomes stronger to withstand the possible fierce competition with its siblings if it is still staying with its family. It needs a lot of biting and chewing now for the correct growth of its adult teeth. Your pet needs consistent socialization and potty training now. After three months old, you should think about such vaccination as DHPP — distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. The juvenile phase lasts from 3 to 6 months, and it can be divided into three stages by month. Continue socializing and start more substantial training. You can consult the German Shepherd weight chart here to see whether your pup develops properly. So, be attentive to the games you play with your pet. Some of them can be dangerous and traumatic because your puppy may not know how to manage its body during them. You can give it two cups of kibble totally three times per day because it needs a lot of nutrition to grow. DHPP and rabies vaccines are recommended at this age. Your little pup is ready to explore the world. However, as a true teenager, it can become more stubborn and try not to listen to your commands. It starts to understand dominance and tries to persuade you in its leadership. Read our detailed guide about 4 month old German Shepherd puppy. During this month, it can gain about 10 pounds 4. Its ears have stably perked up by this time. It looks more like an adult dog but, as a true teenager, it is very playful and is always ready to go around. The adult teeth continue to appear. Sexual maturity starts emerging. You should feed your pet around two cups three times per day. A lot of training is also needed. Read our detailed guide about 5 month old German Shepherd puppy. It needs a lot of training and positive reinforcement. Now, your pet is fully house-trained, and it needs a lot of new experiences. The sixth month is a transition period to the Adolescent Phase. The ears are completely upright. Males achieve sexual maturity, while female puppies can experience heat cycles. Hormones start working, and male puppies can start marking the territory and looking for females to mate. The adult coat grows longer and gets its normal double layers. Adult teething is about to finish, and all 42 teeth appear. You should feed your dog with the overall two or three cups two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 6 month old German Shepherd puppy. Adolescence Phase Months German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years 36 months old. Females become adults when they are 2 years 24 months old. However, these criteria differ for every puppy. That is why the adolescence phase lasts from the end of the 6th month to the end of the second year of age 24 months on average. By the end of this phase, the puppy reaches its full size though it will continue slightly growing. Your dog can display testing boundaries, so disobedience is widely encountered if the dog is not properly trained. German Shepherds do not look like puppies anymore. Within this period, some dogs can display their second fear period at approximately months old , though to avoid long-lasting psychological trauma, you should ignore the fears. Some dogs may occasionally forget their skills that they have already acquired, so you may need to repeat training again. Here, the reinforced training is useful because some puppies can become entirely rambunctious. Your pet will also need more socialization since it reaches its sexual maturity, and some of its reactions can be pretty unexpected. Its sexual maturity continues, which may cause some aggression because of increases and decreases in hormones. The puppy does not gain weight so fast. Teething is finished. The German Shepherd starts looking more similar to an adult dog, with its standing up ears and well-developed muscles. The food your dog needs involves two or three cups total, given two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 7 month old German Shepherd puppy. It displays a lot of aggression. It can bark or lunge at other animals, kids, and unfamiliar people. A lot of training and reinforcement is needed. You can teach the youngster new tricks to deal with their aggression. The dog has strong adult teeth, and its ears are well-formed and perky. The transition to adulthood continues. As for food, your dog needs two-three cups in total two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 8 month old German Shepherd puppy. It does not grow fast, gaining about a couple of pounds per month. The dog needs two-three cups of food two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 9 month old German Shepherd puppy. They are very active and need a lot of attention and training. Sometimes, they can be really goofy or clumsy because they are still learning and do not know how to behave in many events. Your pup is very smart and clever but tends to display a lot of aggression if not supported and reinforced properly. The dogs should eat two-three cups in total per day. Read our detailed guide about 10 month old German Shepherd pupp y. It starts to challenge you as an owner and likes to demonstrate its leadership. You should teach it to be responsible and obey your commands. A lot of training and reinforcement is crucial. Still, give it two or three cups in total per day. It becomes a bit destructive, but be sure not to get angry or upset with it. It needs your patience and positive attitude. Such vaccines as DHPP and rabies are recommended at this age. It should also transit to adult food. Give it three or three and a half cups total twice a day. Read our detailed guide about 1 year old German Shepherd puppy. Years 1. This time is considered a transition period. The dog may have problems with fears and memory breakdowns. It may even forget how to do familiar things and should be trained again. However, its attention span is longer at this age, so it can have a more thorough obedience training. The dog should eat three or three and a half cups two times a day. Year 2 months — The Second Transition Phase This is one more transition period known as young adulthood. Your dog still displays some aggression. That is why they continue to need reinforcement, training, and socialization. It has already gained its athletic frame and strong muscle, and only several pounds are lacking for reaching its adult weight. In fact, you get a German Shepherd full-grown pet now. The DHPP vaccination is recommended at this age. Continue to feed your dog with three to three and a half cups in total twice per day. It has become a loyal and protective family pet or an obedient and enduring working dog. The young adulthood stage lasts from the second to the third year after the puppy was born. Its size is typical now for an adult dog. However, it may continue to grow slightly, but the changes are not noticeable at all. At this phase, you can also notice that your pet becomes more and more active. It needs a lot of exercise and training. A lot of physical activity is essential for the dog to stay in high spirits. The period between the second and third years of life is also called the adult growth stage. This is the time when your friend gets its excellent breed characteristics. It loves attention very much and continues to learn new things eagerly. The dog enjoys training sessions and strives for new experiences. It becomes calmer and more confident. Its hyperactivity slightly decreases. It displays a lot of self-control and discipline. Continue feeding your dog with three to three and a half cups twice per day. It will be its constant adult diet. Vaccination against rabies is recommended and required by authorities at this age. Seniority Phase This is the last phase of German Shepherd development. It may seem wonderful, but your dog can continue to slightly grow. The phase is divided into two periods — early senior years old and late senior years old. Unfortunately, you need to focus on its health rather than on training. Such health issues as hip dysplasia, joint pain, and decreased stamina can appear at this age. You need to have consultations with your vet more often. During this period, your dog does not change its weight and height considerably. Though, you can observe slight changes in weight. On average, these dogs live years. You need to attend to their health and comfort. The dog may remain energetic and playful, but it slightly slows down. It wants to rest more and gets much calmer. The animal may suffer from some pains, so it may need pain relievers for spine and joint problems and arthritis. It may also need nutritional supplements and changes to its diet. Special senior and sensitive stomach food may become the best choice. Avoid jumping and hard playing. Continuous veterinary monitoring is needed if some symptoms are worsening. The accepted proportion that is considered ideal is .The weight is usually not taken into consideration. If your pet does not correspond to this proportion, there may be a health issue you do not know about yet. That is why you need to monitor the parameters carefully. To be sure that everything is OK, multiply the length of your dog by 0. You will get the perfect height. However, there can be some divergences. If they are minor, you have nothing to worry about. The German Shepherd is rather thin, or even skinny. This results in bad proportions. The ideal weight of your German Shepherd is lbs kg for males and lbs kg for females. You can get either a heavy or obese dog, and it can be a result of overfeeding or certain health issues. How to Check the Weight of Your German Shepherd The simplest method to see whether your dog is underweight is to check whether the ribs are visible on the sides. If you can see that the shape of your dog reminds you of a barrel on the ribs, it means that it is overweight. If you cannot feel the ribs, but there is too much skin on the sides, your dog is overweight. However, if you feel the ribs and only a thin layer of skin, it is underweight. It does not matter whether your dog is underweight or overweight. In any case, it can cause health problems if you do not repair the situation. The best way to succeed is to make changes to the diet. If your German Shepherd is underweight, you should enrich the content of its food. However, do not make it eat if the dog does not want to. That can lead to more severe problems. Make a slow transition to food with higher fat content. Or you may even give your dog puppy food because it is rich in nutrients. If your pet is obviously overweight, the best thing is to cut off the food. However, you also need to do it step by step so that the dog finally can eat just half of the amount you have recently fed it. The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder and an average weight of pounds kg. Nevertheless, some German Shepherds can grow bigger and even reach pounds kg. You need to be sure about its proportions though to understand if your pet meets the standards. If you see some deficiencies, meet your vet for a more thorough evaluation. When does a German Shepherd stop growing? German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years old. Females become adults when they are 2 years old. How tall is a German Shepherd? The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder. An average male reaches inches cm in height, while an average female should be inches cm tall. The body of both males and females should be longer than their height. How big do German Shepherds get? How much does a German Shepherd weight? In general, an average male reaches pounds kg in weight, while an average female should be pounds kg heavy. This is a very strong and brave dog that can become a perfect guardian and protector. If you decide to take a GS puppy, you need to follow its growth stages accurately to be sure that it develops properly. You should follow a high-quality diet, provide your dog with a lot of exercise, and ensure its proper training and socialization. Your German Shepherd cannot stay healthy and active if it gets some health problems related to its weight or height. Sometimes, these issues are not obvious and understandable to the owner. That is why it is important to know the main development parameters of your German Shepherd growth stages to cope with possible challenges. We hope that this article, together with the weight and height chart, will become your effective and helpful guide. 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. German Shepherd Development: From Puppies To Adults Posted on Last updated: Categories German Shepherds From early puppyhood to adulthood, German Shepherds undergo significant development that shapes their temperament, behavior, and physical abilities. As a dog owner, understanding the developmental stages of your German Shepherd is crucial to providing the right care and training. German Shepherd development consists of several stages. Hey there! As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site. Contents Final Thoughts German Shepherd Development and Growth Stages German Shepherd development refers to the physical, cognitive, and social changes that occur in German Shepherd puppies as they grow and mature into adulthood. These changes include the physical development of their muscles, bones, and organs, as well as their ability to learn and process information. Social development involves their ability to interact with other dogs and humans and to understand and follow social rules and norms. As a dog owner, it is important to understand the growth stages of your German Shepherd. Knowing what to expect during each stage can help you provide the best care for your furry friend. In the latter case, you need to know that the German Shepherd puppy depends on his mother for everything in these initial weeks. This includes food, warmth, and physical security. Here, your only responsibility is to make sure the dam is equipped with what she needs to fulfill her duties. As long as you feed the adult GSD right, she will be able to feed her babies and give them the warmth and company they need. You might notice that the puppies may seem asocial. Do not measure how the puppy interacts with other dogs for at least three to four weeks, which brings us to what you can expect within the next two weeks. This is where the puppy can wean off and not need a diet made up of milk exclusively. The puppy can consume solid food but is not too fond of it, especially if it is strange in texture. Your priority at this stage should be to get him to accept solid food without regressing to a diet of milk. There will be a social incentive in weaning off as the puppy will observe the litter he belongs to and notice a simultaneous change in feeding preferences. This brings us to a very important change: social interaction. I mentioned above that you should not worry about social disinterest up until the third week. However, by the fourth week, you should look for some interaction. If the puppy fails to acknowledge others in the litter or is getting shunned collectively, consulting an expert trainer or a vet can be helpful. Otherwise, the journey from being 4 weeks old to being adoption-ready is a long one, and it starts by accepting a human guardian. From weeks 4 to 5, the puppy is learning to accept a human usually the breeder as his guardian. Both dominant guardian and guiding guardian archetypes work in establishing yourself as the leader, but the dominant frame might box you into less palatable training tactics. German Shepherd puppies are quite intelligent, but a bulk of this cognitive ability is unlocked in two stages. The first is around the five-week mark. This could be the fourth or sixth week, depending on the individual puppy, but it is noticeable when the dog starts getting excited about other dogs. Of course, you need to be on schedule with socialization and carry-walks to notice this. Again, this explains why breeders usually keep the GSD puppies at this stage. Aggression issues can stem from excitement signaling menace. The opposite is true as well. Fortunately, professional breeders expose the dog to other dogs his age at this stage, and he learns to adjust how he shows and perceives excitement, making your life as a new German Shepherd parent much easier. But socializing your German Shepherd happens in stages as well. And of different ages. The wider the variety of people he gets to see and interact with at this stage, the more receptive he will be to people growing up. If your German Shepherd has seen only young people all his life, he might react differently to older ones and vice versa. This also applies to experiences. Exposing your puppy to experiences like car rides and ringing doorbells ensures that he will be calm in normal situations as he grows up. And in addition to getting your German Shepherd acquainted with normal stimuli like bells and travel, you must get him crate trained at this stage. Introducing the crate as a refuge and a secure spot as opposed to jail is a great way to get your GSD puppy to accept the crate. The more you delay this, the harder it becomes to crate-train a German Shepherd. If you want to check how his growth compares to the guidelines, head over to this article, When Do German Shepherds Stop Growing? This also includes a handy growth chart. This is a critical stage because if unchecked, your German Shepherd might end up hurting other dogs or be hurt by them. The watchful dog-parent in you that you were holding back has his chance to shine here. Make sure you keep a close eye on your German Shepherd and how he interacts with any other dogs in the house. The status-measuring step is one even adult dogs take when first interacting with each other. But at this age, dogs engage in prolonged status-measuring inquiry and either establish dominance or accept their subservient spot. You cannot force your German Shepherd to be the alpha in a relationship with another dog. GSDs are very physical, which is fine when two dogs play within the same breed. But if one of your doggos belongs to a relatively fragile lineage, you might want to consider some separation. If you are worried your German Shepherd playing too rough , click the link for some cool tips on how to limit rough play. The easier to walk your GSD is, the more enjoyable it will be for you both. This is better elaborated in my dedicated post on the fun exercises you can do with your German Shepherd puppy. At the same time, his physical energy levels are rising every day, which can be counterproductive as your German Shepherd can get uber-excited about physical activity. Make sure you have him on a no-pull harness instead of a collar-and-leash, so you can get him properly under control without hurting him. You can also see my other recommendations here. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. While looking through the different stages of growth you can see the rough size of German Shepherd puppies at different stages of their life by comparing the ages to a German Shepherd growth chart. Important Note: Once a puppy has been weened off milk it is essential that the puppy is given a high quality puppy food to ensure proper development. A lack of proper nutrients can result in ears not rising, smaller than normal dogs and health complications in later life. In my opinion Blue Buffalo Puppy Food is the best available on the market. German Shepherd puppies, as with all other dog breeds, are born with their eyes and ears closed. At this stage the GSD puppies are completely dependent on their mothers for care, food and the like and the newborn puppies are relatively immobile. A small section of the umbilical cord will still be attached to the German Shepherd puppy - this will dry up and fall off on its own within a few days. The first 3 days are the most critical in a GSD puppies life. Birth is the beginning of the neonatal period in GSD development and it lasts roughly 2 weeks. Typically the puppies will curve into a comma type shape when picked up. This is because their nervous system at this time is still very immature. Additionally, they can't eliminate unless the mother, or caregiver, stimulates their anus or urethra by licking or gently rubbing the area. Gentle, frequent handling by humans is very helpful from this age onward. As their nervous system development continues they will now also now arch their backs when they are picked up and held rather than curving into a more comma shaped position as before. Around Day 7 German Shepherd puppies now begin to crawl more readily and more often during this phase of GSD development. Short periods of daily handling and exposure to some stimuli can also be very beneficial to stimulate weight gain in the puppy, earlier eye opening, hair growth and motor development in all members of the GSD litter. The German Shepherd puppies eyes will appear to be blue in color at first even though they can't focus right now. They will be able to see shapes after about 2 weeks of age during continued GSD development. Around Day 14 The German Shepherd pups eyes and ears should be fully open by now and many may have their first incisor teeth beginning to erupt. The puppies should also be crawling quite well by this time. This is the beginning of the transitional period of GSD development which typically lasts about a week or so. This is also a period of profound changes in the German Shepherd puppies growth and development. The German Shepherd puppy will begin to be more independent from it's mom during this time. During this time the German Shepherd puppies will begin to eliminate on their own and should start walking within 2- to 3 days by about day 16 or so - very shaky at first, but with practice growing legs will soon become less wobbly. You can observe tail wagging as well as the beginning of play fighting. German Shepherd puppies will also be eliminating on their own by this time. Around Day 21 Around this date the German Shepherd puppy will move from the transitional phase into the socialization period of GSD development. By this time GSD puppies should be able to walk pretty well, with a more adult-like gait. They will also begin a more active exploration of their environments and that of their GSD litter mates. This period is thought to last from about 2. This is an extremely important time for the emotional and social development of the German Shepherd puppy. This is also a period of dramatic changes in your German Shepherd puppies life. This is the period in GSD development when puppies can form bonds with species outside of its own such as human beings. This is also the time when the puppy can identify their own species as well as being able to identify future social partners. Oftentimes, the peak of sensitivity to the formation of social bonds is described to be between 6 to 8 weeks of age. This is also called the fear period in GSD development! Around Week 4 By now social play becomes an important factor in GSD development and German Shepherd puppies learn how to interact with litter mates and adult animals of their species as well. They can also play with toys, play fight, play with humans and other animals and are beginning to eat other soft foods to supplement their mother's milk. Many times the GSD puppies are fearless during this time - exploring their environment and all that is about them. This is also a good time for continued exposure to new and novel things, to various people and other kinds of animals, all while the German Shepherd puppy continues to develop. The socialization stage is very important in the growth of GSD development, however it should be looked at within the context of the developing emotional system of the puppy. At around 3 - 5 weeks of age attraction responses in German Shepherd puppies are very strong. These kinds of responses begin to diminish between 5 - 7 weeks of age as fear responses begin to emerge. It is important to note that early socialization is tremendously important in the development of well-adjusted GSD puppies. During these few weeks, your German Shepherd puppy will also learn how to play and communicate with it's littermates, respond to humans it comes in contact with and how to get along safely in the adult dog world. Around Week 6 German Shepherd puppies begin exhibiting more adult like behaviors such as mounting of other litter mates and demonstrating dominance roles. Sniffing of tails and noses also becomes an important part of the greeting process among their canine peers. Between about 7 - 9 weeks of age the fear response may become so strong as to begin to overwhelm the attraction response. For other puppies the social motivation to make contact may very well overcome any wariness during this phase of GSD development. Around weeks 7 - 12 Among other things, this is an ideal age of socializing your German Shepherd puppy to humans, other animals and new surroundings and objects. It also a great time to learn such important skills as: leash training, housebreaking, crate training, accepting gentle handling and grooming and to accept human domination and control. The socialization period is absolutely critical in GSD development and acceptance of other animal species. If a GSD puppy is not exposed to horses, sheep, goats, other dogs, cats or small children before it reaches 12 weeks, it is likely it will never accept them. You may also observe that your German Shepherd pups ears are beginning to come up in some form or fashion. Don't be surprised by the wild and interesting shapes that they may take on as they mature. As the puppy goes through the teething process the ears will go up and down and will do all sorts of weird things - one up one down; one flopping to the left, the other to the right; both in the center, etc. This period is thought to occur from the end of the primary socialization period through sexual maturity. Motor skills are increasing for the GSD puppy. During this time the puppy is still refining both learning and social skills as well. While puppies in this phase can learn quite well, they are easily distracted and very hard to keep on task. This is an excellent time to start puppy kindergarten. This is also a good time to start being very aware of your GSD puppies ear carriage. Around 4 Months German Shepherd puppies will begin to lose their puppy teeth and will soon replace them with their adult teeth, generally starting with the incisors. Young German Shepherds will continue to learn about their environment and all the individuals in it throughout their social maturization process. This is often the time when older puppies are learning about their social relationships within the environment they live. Social maturity takes more time to achieve than sexual maturity. In the beginning of social maturity dogs will begin to display more mature, adult social behaviors. This time is thought to vary between breeds and from dog to dog and to occur anywhere from 12 - 36 months of age, especially in the larger breeds such as German Shepherds. Again, this varies from German Shepherd to German Shepherd but this is a good place to start. If your German Shepherd puppies ears are not standing up by this time on their own it is a good time to consider taping them. Detailed directions for this process can be found here. Overall, most of the puppies internal body systems are nearly "adult" even though the skeleton is still growing and will for some time to come. In many respects your German Shepherd puppy is now a "small adult". The heart rate has decreased again to about 70 BPM and by the end of this month the GSD puppy should have a full set of adult teeth. Also an important milestone: German Shepherd females reach sexual maturity and have their first estrus heat period. If the GSD's ears are not up by this time you need to take action quickly to get them up before it is too late. Read the article on ear taping. Around 7 - 12 Months German Shepherd males reach sexual maturity and begin to hike their leg when urinating. It is important to be especially firm and consistent about setting limits and enforcing commands during this time since your older GSD puppy may challenge dominance of other dogs or humans during this stage. If the German Shepherd puppies ears are not standing on their own by this point, there is a good chance that they will never stand on their own. This is an ideal age in GSD development to start "Beginning" level classes of obedience training. Bonding to humans is now very firmly established and your German Shepherds vocal and body communications are now that of a more mature individual dog - and more easily understood, and well on their way to many years of happy companionship with you. Sign up for promotions, news, discounts, and the chance to win prizes for you and your German Shepherd E-mail Address. Almost Home Campaign Puppy Developmental Stages and Behaviour To have a well-adjusted and social dog, you need to ensure his needs are met during each phase of development. Building the foundation for a great dog starts with appropriate training at each stage of development and establishing appropriate guidelines so that that your puppy is properly integrated into the family. You will see many behaviour changes during the life stages of your pup. Knowing how to handle your pup through each developmental stage will help to shape your puppy into a lifelong family member. Puppy Developmental Stages The puppy development process covers five distinct stages. However, puppies grow through these stages at their own pace and these timelines can vary. Stage 1: Neonatal Period 0 — 2 weeks This is the first stage of puppy development and begins at birth. At this age, puppies only have the sense of taste and touch and rely totally on their mother. Stage 2: Transitional Period 2 — 4 weeks Sensory development continues with hearing and sense of smell. Puppy teeth start coming through and their eyes will begin to open. Puppies will interact with their litter mates, wag their tails, stand, walk a little and bark. It is vital to understand this stage as most puppies go home to their new parents between 7 — 12 weeks. During this period, changes start to occur rapidly. Between 3- 5 weeks puppies start to become aware of their surroundings and have the ability to develop a relationship with people This is the period where puppies get familiar with the day-to-day noises of a regular household such as TVs, vacuum cleaners, telephones, etc. At this age puppies are just learning to interact with each other and beginning to play. They are also learning their doggie social skills and exploring their ranking status within their pack. Their curiosity is developing, as are their biting skills. Nipping behaviours begin as they practice biting behaviour with their mother and litter mates. At the weeks stage, they will have full use of all their senses and will be ready to go home to their new owners. Bringing your pup home usually between weeks is right in the middle of his socialization period. Therefore, it is vital that you introduce your puppy to as many new dogs, people, objects and surroundings as you can. BUT, make sure you do so in a controlled manner and never put your puppy in a dangerous situation where they can be injured, scared or contract disease. This is a great period to begin crate training, for a variety of reasons. Puppies are old enough to start getting used to being left alone to avoid separation anxiety from developing and are capable of being house-trained. Even though your home is likely puppy proofed, it also saves your possessions. During this phase of development, puppies are developing their reactions to things much more consistently. They are also likely to focus more on different types of people and should be friendly and approachable to strangers. During this time they are also going to continue to practice their biting skills a whole lot more! It is important to learn how to manage this behaviour early on. You may also notice that they are more curious and will probably look to explore their environment more. Be prepared for this and keep your puppy close to you and leashed. Stage 4: Testing Period 3 — 6 months This is the time your puppy starts to test their boundaries within their world. They will test the limits with their owners and other animals. At this age many adult dogs will start to enforce manners. Problematic behaviours can begin to arise in this period. At this age your puppy is going to go through teething and chewing is a common side effect. Make sure he has plenty of chew sticks and toys. Use commercial sprays or gels that dissuade your puppy from chewing your belongings. Try soaking a cloth toy in chicken stock and freezing it if your puppy is experiencing pain while teething. Once frozen, this can be given to your puppy as a chew toy and will help to relieve sore gums. Puppies are usually finished teething by the age of 6 months when the upper fangs canines come in. Your cute little puppy is becoming a teenager and will start producing hormones which may result in changes in behaviour. Dogs go through adolescence much earlier than people; for small breeds, is can be as early as six months old while larger dogs starting at nine or 10 months of age. Adolescence in larger breed dogs continues until they are two or three years old with smaller dogs reaching maturity at about 18 months. Typically the larger the dog, the slower the development. Signs of Puberty in Canines Here are the typical signs to watch out for to tell you that your own puppy has hit puberty: Males. It just might be. During this period, the puppy is dependent on the mommy dog because it comes out of the womb pretty much blind and deaf like all puppies. In fact, the puppy will spend most of his time sleeping during this period. By the end of this period you will start to see those little eyes open up and the puppy will start to attempt standing. The puppy will be unsteady on his feet as he wobbles when trying to stand. It is also normal to see those initial baby teeth start poking through the gums. The puppy will start to show a bit of personality as it interacts with both you and the other puppies in the litter. However, it will still be largely dependent on the mother during this period. You should see the rest of the baby teeth coming in during this period. And the puppy will become steadier on his feet when standing. They puppy will take its social cues from both you and the other dogs in the house. This is the perfect time to start reinforcing some good behaviors while the puppy is open to learning. For female dogs, the heat cycle begins now and for the males they reach sexual maturity. The puppy witching hour really sets in during this time. It is important that you have a regular routine established for your dog by this period to counteract some of that hyperactivity. Starting at around 16 months is when the attention span of your German Shepherd puppy is strongest, so this is a great time for training and obedience classes. And by around 36 months, the male dog is considered a full grown adult dog. A regular routine with exercise is still required to keep those zoomies at bay. As your dog continues to age, you will notice that over time he becomes calmer and a more mellow pupper. But German Shepherds never lose that high energy level. Final Word As you can see, your German Shepherd will go through some distinct behavioral stages as he grows. But one thing that will remain constant is that high energy level that these dogs are known for. Sharing is caring!

With over 40 years of experience, Shawn trains people to properly establish and maintain leadership roles with their canine companions. Shawn has trained with several acclaimed canine experts and refined The Dog Way training methods through experience and observation of dogs' natural interactions within their groups. Deciding you want to purchase a pug puppy is exciting. However, you want to make sure you find the right puppy for you. Make sure you seek out reputable breeders so your puppy does not come with any health problems. Visit the puppies in person and choose the one that suits your needs. Ask the breeder plenty of questions about the puppy's current health and pedigree. Before bringing your new friend home, make sure your house is puppy proofed. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Pug puppies come with a unique set of needs. Puppies in general require more care than an adult dog. Before embarking on your journey to find a pug puppy, consider whether you can accommodate one at the moment. Make sure you have time for a puppy. Puppies need extra feeding, as well socialization and training. If you have a very busy schedule, you may want to wait for things to settle down before getting a puppy. Pugs, as a pet, require some maintenance. The folds in their faces need regular cleaning, and they're also prone to a great deal of shedding. Make sure you can live with frequent grooming, and accept the fact your house will never quite be hair-free. Like all breeds, pugs are prone to certain health problems. While a good breeder is adept at breeding out such problems, there are certain problems that are hard to breed out. These are usually simply due to how a pug is built. Learn the risks associated with pugs and make sure you're prepared to deal with them down the road. All pugs, regardless of breeding, are prone to eye problems. Pug's distinctive, bulging eyes expose a large area of their corneas, which puts their eyes at risk of drying out or forming ulcers. You may have to deal with frequent vet visits to deal with eye issues. Pugs are very prone to overheating because their flattened faces makes it hard for them to breathe. This problem can be even worse in hot weather, and overheating can cause serious health issues for a pug. Behaviorally, pugs are a more social breed. They are more prone to separation anxiety issues than other breeds. If you're gone a lot, a pug may not be the right dog for you. When searching for a breeder, there are a few places to scratch off your list right away. Puppy mills and very obviously bad breeders should be avoided. You're more likely to get a pug with existing health problems, or the risk of developing health problems down the road. In general, do not trust a breeder who simply sells dogs online from any given buyer. A breeder who does not ask any questions is probably not a good breeder. Responsible breeders want to make sure their dogs go to good homes. Puppy mills sometimes sell puppies to pet stores, so avoid buying a pug from a pet store. Puppy mills may also sell pugs online. If you can simply look at a picture of a puppy and purchase it, this is probably a puppy mill. Start your search locally. If you're lucky, you will be able to find a breeder who lives nearby. Look for ads in the newspaper, online, at local pet stores and veterinary clinics, and at any local pet clubs. A breeder in your area is convenient, as you will not have to travel far to see the puppies. Just because someone is a local breeder, do not assume they are an ethical one. Make sure to visit any breeder in person and look at the puppies physically before purchasing one. Unfortunately, not all areas have pug breeders close by. In some cases, you may have to travel to meet and select a puppy. There are many places you can look online to locate the nearest pug breeder. The Pug Dog Club keeps a list of reputable breeders online. You can search for the closest breeder there. The American Kennel Club also has a database of dog breeders. You can search there by breed. Remember to have patience. Even if you find a good breeder relatively close to you, they may not have puppies available for a while. You may have to wait a few months before taking home your pug puppy. Call a few breeders during your search. Pay close attention to your interactions. Learn the signs of a good breeder. Only work with breeders who are responsible and care about their dogs. Their facilities should be clean and spacious. They will be flexible in scheduling a time for you to see the puppies. A solid breeder will usually only breed one type of dog, or only a few types of dogs. The breeder should be very knowledgeable of pugs. During your initial conversation, the breeder will want to go over some basic pug care information with you. Good breeders do not have anything to hide. Not only will the be willing to let you see the dog's pedigree and meet their parents, they will actually encourage this. When you select a breeder to meet up with, make sure to ask a variety of questions. You want to make sure their puppies are a good match for you and your home. You also want to make sure the breeder is responsible and that the puppies are in good health. Interacting with a dog's mother and father can give you a sense of your puppy's future temperament. Ask questions about the breeder's credentials. Ask how long they've been breeding pugs. A more experienced breeder is more likely to produce healthier puppies. Ask about the puppy's parents. Make sure the parents do not have any inheritable diseases. Ask if you can see the health certificates for the parents on request. You should also ask about what treatment the puppies have received. Have they been vaccinated or de-wormed? Have they been spayed or neutered yet? When you get a chance to interact with the puppies, look closely at the puppy's you like. Pugs are prone to certain abnormalities. You can detect a potential issue by examining the dog's eyes, as well as how it breathes and moves. Watery eyes, squinted eyes, or glazed over eyes are signs of poor health. Hold the puppy close to you to hear it breathe. Raspy, labored breathing is generally a bad sign. Watch the puppy moving and at rest. It's not uncommon for pugs to breathe through their mouths when running around. However, a resting puppy should be able to comfortably breathe through its nose. There should be no signs of limping or an uneven gain if the puppies are old enough to walk. If you notice a puppy walking funny, listen for a clicking noise from the hips. This indicates the dog may develop hip problems later in life. As you interact with the puppies, aim for one with a good temperament. You want a puppy that's not too shy, but also one that's not overly rambunctious. You want a puppy that allows you to pick it up without squirming. A very aggressive or very standoffish puppy can be a problem. Once you've selected two or three pugs you like, request one-on-one time with them. You want a puppy that is friendly away from its litter. A friendly puppy will wag its tail, allow you to pet it, and look at you when you talk. A good breeder will be as scrutinizing of you as you are of them. Breeders want to make sure their dogs go to good homes, so don't be put off if a breeder asks you a lot of questions. This is a good sign. The breeder wants to make sure you will take good care of the puppy. They will also want to know about your general lifestyle and how you plan to care for the dog. If this is your first pug, don't panic. A breeder is unlikely to reject you simply because you don't have specific experience with pugs. As long as you've done some research on the breed, the breeder will probably be willing to sell to you if you're responsible. A good breeder will always be willing to provide this information. After selecting the puppy you want, ask for its pedigree as well as a certificate of health. These papers should assure you the puppy is in good health, and that its family tree is relatively free of inheritable conditions. Puppies need frequent vet visits. You should have a certification on hand showing what vaccinations and other treatments your dog has already received. As you prepare to bring your puppy home, make sure you're ready. Your puppy should enter your home with all the supplies it needs to thrive ready. You will need the following: [7] X Research source A crate to transport your puppy home and for crate training later Bedding Collar, leash, and identification tag Toys Grooming supplies i. Before bringing your dog home, you will need to pug proof your house. Pugs are inquisitive animals and prone to getting into things. You want to make sure your pug cannot get into any dangerous substances or places. Make sure all electrical wires are covered or out of reach. Keep things like household cleaners and detergents out of reach. Place them in high kitchen cabinets. Prevent access to staircases, as young pugs can easily slip and fall on the stairs. A good breeder will present you with a contract prior to purchase. This outlines your basic responsibilities and the breeder's return policy. Read the contract carefully before signing. If there's anything you don't understand, ask the breeder. You want the option of returning a dog in the event it has a health problem you cannot afford to treat. Once the contract is signed and your home is ready, you can bring your new friend home. You can now enjoy your pug puppy, and begin the process of training and caring for your new lifelong friend. Now, I have to decide which Pug puppy to bring home. I'm so nervous that I'll choose the wrong dog. How can I possibly know I am choosing a Pug puppy that is the best one for me? They're all going to be so cute! Answer: Hi Ashley. We agree that all of the puppies are going to be adorable and cute! However, there are definitely some guidelines that you can follow when you are trying to pick out the perfect Pug pup. We are not sure if it matters to you if you have a male or female. There are not that many differences, despite what others may say. While potential health problems may not be visible, there are 3 things that everyone should do: Check the eyes, breathing and gait. The Eyes: The eyes are not only the window to the soul, they can also give you a clue about the health of the dog. Watering, squinting or a glazed film on the eyes is a sign of health issues. Breathing: Hold the puppy close to your ear and listen carefully. Do you hear rattling and rasping? This is a sign of a breathing problem. Does the puppy have to breath through his or her mouth? If the puppy is at rest, they should be able to breath fine with their mouth closed this can be a stenotic nare issue, which often needs to be corrected with a surgical procedure. Watch the puppy walk: While young pups under the age of 6 weeks may still be gaining their footing, take note of any limping or odd gait issues. If you do notice an odd gait, listen for any clicking noises coming from the hip area. This sort of issue may be caused by underdeveloped hip bones joint and socket , a health problem not uncommon with the Pug breed. Interaction and Activity Some people will tell you that you should pick the puppy that comes right over to you first. This is not the best advice. Puppies that are very bold like that may be harder to train. Their enthusiasm may be great fun for a while, but keeping up with and trying to train such a puppy may turn out to be stressful. When you are choosing a Pug puppy, it is usually best to choose one who is quiet and calm. However, you most certainly need to make sure that the pug is not too quite due to an illness or extreme shyness. You don't want to bring home an ill pup and choosing a dog that is overly shy may make for a pet that is afraid of everything and will be in need of extensive of socialization training. It is recommended to have a close look at several puppies that stay in the background. If a Pug puppy is laying listless without any energy at all, this is a warning sign that the dog may be unhealthy. A calm Pug that does respond to you when picked up is what you should be looking for. Listen to the breathing for any signs of labored breathing or rasps. If the breathing is clear, take a look at the eyes. They should be bright and clear without an excessive discharge. With 2 or 3 puppies now left for you to decide on, take a look at how each one responds to you and how they respond to each other. Wiggle a toy in front of a puppy or whistle to him or her and see if the pup shows natural curiosity. The one for you should come over to you to investigate. Allow the whole litter to play with a toy. Take notice of the ones that seem to be bossy and the ones that seem to play fair. Take note of the ones who cower in the corner if the others fight for the toys. You will want to choose a Pug puppy who falls somewhere in the middle. This will ensure you have one that has a calm, yet curious personality. Finally, when you have it narrowed down to 2, do not feel rushed. Take time to sit down with each and talk to them. Does the pup look at you when you talk? Does he or she keep their tail high or wag the tail to express happiness? At this point, you should get a good feeling about which puppy is the one that is meant for you. Please remember, that just because you have an appointment to pick up a dog does not mean that you must go home with one. If the litter seems ill, all of the dogs seem aggressive or you do not feel a bond with any of the puppies it is absolutely acceptable to relay this to the breeder. While you may be very disappointed at first, in the long run you will be happy that you waited. When you are holding the Pug puppy that is right for you, you will know it. And what a lucky guy or girl that will be! Ready to begin his or her new journey as part of your family! All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Should I buy a pug puppy at a pet store? Before you start: Before you start looking for pug breeders, there are a few things you should do to improve your experience. Understand breed standards — Not all pugs are created equal. Some are show quality and bred to match breed standards, while others may be off on a few aesthetic details. Have patience — The process of finding a pug breeder, waiting for a litter and bringing your puppy home can take months! How to find pug breeders Finding breeders to reach out to is step one. There are a number of ways of find reputable breeders: Reach out to friends — Have a friend or acquaintance with a pug? Reach out to them about their experience and breeder info. Slide into their DMs and ask about their breeder. Attend one to get the low down on litters. More on this below. Be prepared to do your research and ask lots of questions. Here are questions the breeder should be prepared to answer: What requirements do you have of people looking to take home one of your puppies? Breeders should be as interested in you as you are in them. They should ask about you, your family and your household. Can I meet the parents? Plus, seeing the parents will give you an idea of what their puppies will be like both in terms of temperament and looks. Have health tests been performed on the parents? This will ensure both parents are healthy and free of genetic diseases common to the pug breed. How long have you been breeding and what is your experience with this breed? Breeders should have a deep understanding of the breed and a history that includes either showing dogs or being part of a breed club. How do you socialize your puppies? Puppies should be well socialized in a home environment so they grow to be well-adjusted dogs. When will I be able to take the puppy home? Responsible breeders will not allow puppies to be taken home until they are at least ten weeks old. Puppies should be up-to-date on vaccinations and come with a health guarantee and contract for you to sign. Many breeders will also require you to agree to spay or neuter the dog, unless you plan to show them. A breeder should welcome back any dog that you can no longer care for. Can we speak to references and your vet? The breeder should be willing to provide references from others who have purchased their puppies, as well as the contact information for their veterinarian. Are you available as a resource after I take the puppy home? They should provide care instructions and be available as a resource. Reputable breeders are interested in you, your family and your household. Pug puppy scams Puppy scams are rampant all across the internet. In many cases, the puppy advertised never even existed. According to the Better Business Bureau, 3. You can learn ways to avoid puppy scams by checking for the following breeder red flags. Pug breeder red flags If you pay attention, you can avoid puppy scams and backyard breeders. If the pug breeder does any of the following things, run the other way. Absolutely not. Pet stores get their puppies from puppy mills, commercial dog breeding facilities that keeps dogs in cruel and unsafe conditions. Remember those sad dog commercials with the Sarah McLaughlin music? Those are puppy mills. There are an estimated 10, puppy mills in the United States. All they care about is money and churning out puppies. Dogs are kept in horrid conditions, receive no veterinary care, and are often sick and underfed. The majority of puppies sold in pet stores come from puppy mills. Click here to learn more about pug prices. Click here to learn more about pug stuff. Pin for later! Finding a reputable breeder is one of the most important steps in your Pug adoption journey. Not all breeders are made equal. Here are some key criteria to consider when looking for a Pug breeder. Seek out reputable breeders Chances are your first port of call is going to be Google. Start your search locally by checking local classifieds online. You may also want to ask around in your local area. Friends, newspaper ads, the local veterinarian are all great options. A reputable breeder will include details and pictures of their pups and dam. They will also provide ample information and include details of health testing, conformation, and any after-sales policies. Check to see how many litters they have produced in the last 12 months or so. Good breeders breed less. Sometimes your gut instinct is the best way to find a reputable breeder. A good breeder will be happy to answer any and all of your questions and have ample knowledge of the Pug breed. If they seem defensive, secretive, or callous, then walk the other way. Do they follow breeder best practices? When it comes to your first visit, be vigilant. Make sure that your breeder is following breeder best practices. Breeder best practices coverage, health, conformation, and after sales policy. Your breeder should not let their puppies go to new homes before 8 weeks of age. You should never buy a Pug younger than this. Your breeder should provide proof of relevant health checks, conformation, and provide you with an after-sales policy. Beware puppy scams and red flags Unfortunately, the world is full of puppy scams. Some people who claim to be dog breeders are after one thing and one thing only. Your money. Key signs that your alleged breeder is a scam artist: They promise a free puppy They promise a highly discounted puppy They sell sob stories They keep asking you for more money They are very far away 6. Even if you feel sorry for the puppies in these mills, the best way to stop this practice is not to fund it by purchasing a puppy from them. Puppy mills are large-scale breeders who breed pups in poor conditions. Oftentimes pups from puppy mills develop physical and behavioral health issues later in life. We also recommend avoiding purchasing puppies from pet stores. Not all health conditions are visible or immediately obvious. But nonetheless, there are some basic checks you can observe to ensure that your Pug is in top-notch condition. Cloudiness, redness, gunk, and discharge are all signs of ill health. Likewise, a Pug with watery, squinted eyes may also be unwell. If her eyes are also glazed over or irritated then this could be a sign of a hereditary ocular disease. These are all causes for concern. Your puppy should be able to breathe comfortably when at rest. Any uncalled for raspiness or breathing difficulties are signs of ill health. Coat Pug puppies should have super shiny, clean coats. Frame Pups should be slightly plump with a well-proportioned frame. Shorter than average legs are a sign of a genetic condition called Dwarfism. Unfortunately, Pug Dwarfism is a serious issue and often leads to a myriad of health issues and a short life expectancy. Look for signs of limping or unsteadiness. Listen out for any clicking sounds from the hips. These are all signs of future joint problems. Since puppies come in a litter, oftentimes there will be more than one to choose from. Try to pick a pup with a well-balanced temperament. Not too shy and not too crazy. Think about what kind of character will fit best with your home life. Is your household mellow and quiet or busy and noisy? Do you have kids? Do you have other pets? No problem. Remember, a reputable breeder will be happy to answer any of these questions and be adequately knowledgeable. Even that is a bit excessive. Overbreeding is a serious problem and can lead to health issues for both mom and pups in the long run. Your breeder should be able to provide you with proof of any relevant health checks and notify you of any hereditary issues. This is because some genetic health issues do not show up until later in life usually after approximately three years of age. It is wholly in your right to ask to see the parents in person. In fact, the pups should all be with their mother until at least 8 weeks. Ask where the puppies are living and ask to see them A good breeder will keep their pups in the home. They will be more than happy to show you around. If the pups are in a dark, cold, isolated area such as a garage or yard — or if the breeder refuses your request to visit- then this is a big red flag. Ask if the puppies have been regularly handled Make sure that your puppy has been well socialized with people. In the best-case scenario, your pup will have had contact with people of various ages and possibly even other dogs and animals. Adequate socializing is super important for preventing any behavioral issues later in life. A good breeder will be able to give you a detailed medical history for each pup. All puppies should have been checked by a vet before being homed. Ask for references or to speak to a previous buyer Good breeders will be happy to provide references. If people have had a good experience with them in the past, they will be more than happy to offer a reference. If your breeder refuses to offer you a reference then this is a big warning sign. Ask for a contract Make sure you and the breeder sign a contract before you take your new pup home. A good breeder will always present new owners with a contract prior to purchase. The contract should include all breeder and owner responsibilities and any details of a returns policy. Some breeders will even offer a year health guarantee against genetic defects. In order to avoid scam artists, there are a few tell-tale signs that you can look out for. These are major red flags. Reputable breeders who love their Pugs will never do these things. Signs of a puppy scam include: Promises of a free puppy Promises of a highly discounted puppy Asking for money just to complete paperwork Offering long-distance puppy delivery Sob stories are a huge red flag. If you come across an advert selling you a pup on the basis of a tragic life event e. Whilst this is not always a scam, puppy scam artists do like to use this method. Usually, if somebody can no longer look after their beloved dog, they will not ask for a lot of money to rehome them. In fact, oftentimes, the dog will be offered to a loving home for free. Bring Your Pugs Home! Sourcing your new Pug pup can be a lengthy process. Now you know what to look for when buying a Pug puppy, and the tips and tricks to filter the right Pug breeders.

If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Fortunately, Massachusetts has many great breeders that do their job with the purest intentions. However, not all of the breeders strive for the same quality and ethical breeding practices. To achieve this, they conduct extensive health and genetic testing to minimize the risk of the puppies inheriting any serious genetic conditions. That being said, ethical breeders also provide at least a two-year health guarantee that covers any major and life altering genetic conditions that the breeding dogs have been tested for. All of those organizations are focused on ethical breeding practices and require their member breeders to adhere to their highest health testing standards. Additionally, if any of your friends, family members, or neighbors has recently adopted a Labradoodle, reach out and ask about their own experiences with Labradoodle breeders in Massachusetts. They breed both American and Australian Labradoodles in all sizes. Tango Wool Labradoodles is a small breeder and all of their pups are home-raised. Most of their breeding dogs live with loving guardian families so that the breeder has plenty of time to focus on each puppy during their first 8 weeks. What Makes This Breeder Unique? We are raising our family in Mendon, MA in a 's farm house that we have been renovating since .We expose them to all the sights and sounds of busy family life. Our goal is that all of our dogs grow up to be mentally, physically and emotionally healthy so that they can be active members of their families for many years. Health Testing One of the benefits of purchasing an Australian Labradoodle is the required health testing of our Breed Club. The Australian Labradoodle Association of America requires that our breeding dogs are tested for hip dysplasia through an OFA and any eye abnormalities through a CERF test preformed by an eye ophthalmologist. Each breeding Dam and Sire are tested for Patellar Luxation and Cardiovascular Abnormalities by a certified veterinarian. Australian Labradoodles Bloodlines Australian Labradoodles are unique to Labradoodles because of their multigenerational bloodlines. Even when the other types of Labradoodles are bred on for generations, the result is not an Australian Labradoodle, as the attributes of the infused breeds were not included in their ancestry. Many allergy sufferers my son included are living happily with Australian Labradoodles. A Furever Friend Australian Labradoodles are famous for their affectionate, happy go lucky personalities. They bond deeply with their families but are also happy to meet new people! They love to play ball in the yard or go for a hike but they can also spend a day lounging in house with the family! Sign Up For Updates Be the first to hear about new litters, availability, and helpful pet advice. Sign up. High Country Australian Labradoodles is a family-owned breeder of exceptional multi-generational Australian Labradoodles. We breed for temperament, trainability, and affectionate, lovable companions for any family. Our breeding parents are fully tested and we are licensed and inspected by the State of NH and have a supervising veterinarian. We started with this breed after having labs for many years. The Australian Labradoodles we found had the same love and affection as our labradors but with the plus of being low to non-shedding. Yes, they really are low to non-shedding. I did not believe it until I owned my first one and it is absolutely true! The multi-generational Australian Labradoodle is also allergy friendly. We here at High Country Labradoodles breed specifically for temperament so we know that our multi-generational Australian Labradoodles excel in gentleness, trainability, love and sweet demeanor. Our labradoodles have exceptional wool or fleece coats. There is nothing like snuggling up close to your Australian Labradoodle. Tango Wool Labradoodles is located in the hinterlands of Western Massachusetts in the heart of the beautiful Berkshire mountains, close to the borders of New York, Connecticut, and Vermont, where I have lived with my two daughters for over 38 years. Animals have always been one of my greatest loves and I feel blessed to have been part of the dog world for most of my life. My work with dogs eventually led me to become a hobby breeder, raising English Labradors of the highest caliber, all from champion lines and bred for the best possible health and temperament. It was a wonderful venture, and now I am applying all that I have learned to breeding what I believe are some of the healthiest, happiest, and most beautiful Labradoodles anywhere. My interest in the breed was sparked when I heard of their allergy-friendly qualities a few years ago, at a time when my own grandson was having a hard time dealing with his allergies. Thus began my quest to acquire the best Labradoodle I could find. I wanted one that could measure up to the same standards as my Labradors, with thoroughly health-tested parents and grandparents and a gentle, loving, and trainable temperament. After a year of doing my homework I bought a gorgeous Labradoodle from a breeder who I thought had incredible dogs, and introduced her into my home. We were thrilled.I put my labs into guardian homes and only had my Labradoodle at home. .I was sold on Labradoodles! No sneezing! Not only was my grandson not allergic, the dog herself was amazingly smart, kind, gentle and athletic. We could play all day and when it was time to come home and chill out she could switch gears effortlessly. I continued my experiment and had every test done on her required by the Goldendoodle-Labradoodle Premium Breeders List of which we are now a proud member , and found she passed every tests with flying colors, in fact, with some of the best hip scores Tufts University had ever seen. That piece of advice convinced me to follow the path I've been on ever since, and resulted in the birth of Tango Wool Labradoodles. My dogs live in the house with me or outside in our beautiful fenced-in backyard, using the kennel actually a mini-apartment inside the main house only occasionally if I need to be away for the day. Some of my dogs are also placed in Guardian Homes where they get plenty of love and attention, only coming back to Tango Wool to have their puppies. We breed beautiful Australian lines and gorgeous American lines! Please go to our Facebook Tango Wool Labradoodles where you can see our reviews, people's comments, and a lot of the fun stuff we do! Please enjoy! Tango Wool is a small operation, and it's going to stay that way.I intend to continue to hike, swim, kayak, and love my dogs! Please feel free to call or email me with any questions you might have; I can be reached 7 days a week from 9 a. EST or any time via email! Thanks for visiting! We are an in home breeder of the Australian Labradoodles established in .Our goal is to produce, happy, healthy and sound Australian Labradoodle puppies with wonderful temperaments. We do extensive health testing on all of our breeding dogs, and take extra measures to promote the health and well being of our pups. We strive to produce pups that will be the perfect family companions! We have some exciting new litters planned that will be opening up shortly! If you have submitted an application at a time where there was no availability, please submit when you notice new availability. Thank you for your patience. We promise that your new puppy will definitely be worth every bit of the wait! Note: We are in the process of transitioning to this new website! Currently we are behind on responding to emails and applications so please be patient with us as we transition and upgrade our site to make it more user friendly for you! Breeding the finest quality Australian Labradoodles since Learn about our Guardian Program If you live within 30 miles of Northern Rhode Island, have a fenced in yard, and a family member who is home most of the day, we would love to hear from you! Please read about our guardian home program prior to inquiring to be sure you are eligible! Only eligible families that apply will be contacted. Please be sure to read the guardian home information page to see if you are eligible! We specialize in miniature, medium, and large medium size Australian Labradoodle puppies with beautiful allergy friendly coats in all colors with exceptional temperaments. We are blessed to have our puppies reside all over the world. For information on available puppies for sale, please be sure to visit our upcoming litters page! They live pampered lives where they are spoiled to death by their families, and have never been exposed to a kennel environment. A few of our dogs live here with us, and the majority live with their wonderful local guardian families as a forever family pet. .Our breeding dogs are social, happy, healthy, sound, and live the best lives that any dog could dream of living! While in our care, all pups receive proper veterinarian care, are up to date on all of their vaccinations, microchipped for permanent identification, and ESN prior to leaving for their forever homes. We hope you enjoy browsing our website, and look forward to hearing from you! Our two founding females were pure American and over the years we have added lots of Australian and a few more American bloodlines. All of our breeders are family pets that live in our home with us or in their own guardian home. This way they can retire with the family they love and grew up with. I am a proud breeder of Labradoodles and take great pride in the puppies produced here. Our pups are socialized with adults and children of all ages starting at about 4 weeks. They are exposed to lots of sights and sounds and new things each day. We have personally found Labradoodles to be amazing family pets. Labradoodles are loyal, playful, extremely smart and great companions to their human families. You can train them to do just about anything with the right guidance. Labradoodles often have low to no shed coats and usually are allergy friendly. But be aware there are no guarantees that they won't shed a little. Our goal is to do our best to produce non shedding or the lowest shedding pups that we can. In the 20 years I have been doing this we have so far not produced any puppies that shed. My clients become part of my family and they are the reason I do what I do. Their follow ups with me always warm my heart and remind me how lucky I am to be able to do breed these amazing dogs. It is a passion for me that I cannot explain. They are so loved and well cared for and it shows! As a new puppy owner you are also set up for success with all the information and support you are given. We are so happy with out new addition to our family! I would highly recommend Green Mountain Australian Labradoodles! Healthy and perfect size for our family. Pam does it right,returns emails and phone calls the same day. Goes out of her way to accommodate her forever home pet owners. Thank you for Copper! My family did not anticipate having to search for a puppy; we unexpectedly lost our 16 year old Cockapoo in March. Pam, especially, made this process seamless. She answered emails within a few hours and answered ALL questions thoroughly unlike other breeders. She kept us updated when the puppies arrived and as they grew up. The amount of time and love that Green Mountain gives to each litter is incredible. I highly recommend them and their doodles! Bentley is the best puppy I have ever met! The love and caring that Alex and Pam put into the raising of their pups is extraordinary!

Veterinary reviewed by Dr. Linda Simon. This post may contain affiliate links. Read more here. If you notice your furry friend has become congested recently, you may wonder what is going on. Snoring, grunting, sneezing, and snorting are all noises that are cause for concern if heard frequently enough. Reasons a dog sounds congested will vary and are largely dependent on age, breed and whether or not a dog has any underlying medical issues. Most of the time, the cause is benign and the issue can be easily dealt with. For a small number of pooches, there may be something more serious going on. Congestion in a dog can indicate an anatomical fault, obesity, allergies, foreign objects, respiratory infections, or even tumors. Temporary issues include poor air quality or an odd sleeping position. Some breeds are no stranger to noisy breathing. For others, however, sounding congested may be new territory. There is a wide range of potential causes for dog congestion and snorting. These include: Anatomy. Those carrying extra pounds are putting additional pressure on their heart and lungs which can affect their breathing quality. As a dog gets older, the cartilage in their airways weakens and they can begin to breathe more loudly than before. Similar to hayfever in humans, some dogs experience Allergic Rhinitis. This can cause sneezing as well as nasal discharge and congested breathing. A foreign body in the nasal passage. If a dog sniffs up a grass seed or awn this is likely to give them trouble when it comes to their breathing. Sometimes, an abscess develops and there is significant swelling. Signs typically start abruptly and can be severe. Respiratory infections. Bacterial, parasitic, fungal, or viral can all create congested breathing. This is due to the inflammation as well as the production of excess snot and fluid. If your dog has had an anesthetic or sedation you may well notice their breathing sounds heavier for the next day or so. This is a combination of their relaxed muscles narrowing their airway and the fact that they will be very groggy. Anything that obstructs the natural airflow needs to be considered. Benign tumors like polyps and cancerous tumors would both need to be considered. Air quality. If the air around your dog is not well ventilated and is dusty or smoky, this can affect the way that they breathe. Laryngeal Paralysis. Dogs who develop laryngeal paralysis can have noisy breathing and a soft cough. It tends to be senior dogs that are affected. Sleeping position. Sometimes, your dog may be lying awkwardly, causing slight airway obstruction. This can mean they start to sound blocked up and congested. Photo by Stefano Carnevali on Shutterstock Oftentimes, owners notice breathing changes when their dog is asleep as they have the opportunity to watch them closely. It may be that these changes are always present but are harder to spot when a dog is moving about and active. So, those with certain lung and heart diseases tend to cough more and have more trouble breathing when lying down. An abrupt change in breathing habits would usually be accompanied by other signs. You may notice your dog is also breathing faster and is less able to exercise. If your dog normally has quiet breathing, a sudden change needs to be explored. A congenital issue such as BUAS is much less likely in this case. The vet will check for signs of respiratory infections and airway blockages. They will also consider the season, to determine if seasonal allergies are a possibility. Dog Breathing Sounds Like Snoring There are several causes of noisy breathing that sounds like a snore. If this is a new thing for your dog, an airway exam should be performed by a vet. This is because they suffer from a condition called Brachycephalic Upper Airway Syndrome. Some are more affected than others and it is important you discuss with your vet if your dog requires any intervention. Dog Gurgling Sound When Breathing Gurgling when breathing may mean that there is fluid present somewhere in the airway, which could point toward serious lung or heart disease. A gurgle is a specific sound that should never be ignored. If you think your dog gurgles when they breathe, have them assessed right away. What are the Signs of Respiratory Distress in a Dog? A dog in respiratory distress may hide, pace around, or stand with their arms wide apart and neck extended. With limited oxygen, the breathing will generally be fast, shallow, or noisy and gums may be grey or blue instead of a healthy pink. Every owner should make themselves familiar with the signs of respiratory distress. While some assume signs would be obvious, this is not always the case. When resting or asleep, anything higher than 30 breaths a minute is a red flag. An exception to this is a healthy pup who may breathe quickly for a short time while dreaming. A trip to the vet should always be the first port of call. Once we know what we are dealing with and the correct prescription medicine has been issued, we can consider how we can help our dogs at home: Let your dog in the bathroom whenever a family member has a hot bath or shower. This can help clear their airways and soften any mucus buildup. Encourage your dog to move about, as long as they are up for it. Lying still for too long can lead to mucus and fluid pooling. Anti-histamines and similar over-the-counter medicines may be appropriate for some patients, especially those with allergies. However, this should always be discussed with a vet first. Clear away any nasal discharge with a warm, wet cotton towel or grooming wipes. This can put them off their food which can affect their energy. It can help to offer warm and strong-smelling food such as sardines and moist chicken. Consider using a humidifier in your home if needed. Keep the air well ventilated. Make it easier for your dog by ensuring the air is free of dust, smoke, cooking fumes and air fresheners. Thankfully, this tends to be something Mother Nature takes care of for us. While some websites may advise using a nasal aspirator, few dogs will tolerate this according to practicing vets and my own experience. Rather, using a humidifier and steaming your dog in the bathroom should be enough to loosen up mucus and let the body deal with it naturally. When liquid is dripping out of the nostrils, you can clean it away with cotton wool. If your dog has fluid in or around their lungs this is a true medical emergency. This is not something that can be treated at home and these dogs need immediate vet care. Fluid build-up may need to be drained with a needle or using medicine called diuretics. Loud breathing in a dog is a symptom that merits our attention. It will likely bother your dog, affect their sleep and make it harder for them to exercise. There are a range of potential causes for congested and noisy breathing, meaning a vet visit is a necessity. Your dog will be examined thoroughly and may require — after natural remedies are ruled — medication and other interventions. Disclaimer: This blog post does not substitute veterinary attention and does not intend to do so. I am not a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. If your dog shows any sign of illness, call your vet. Post navigation. Yes — and no. Let us explain. Brachycephalic dogs, otherwise known as flat-faced breeds, have more difficulty breathing due to their shortened snouts. The French bulldog, Boston terrier, and pug are among the most well-known brachycephalic breeds, and 24 breeds total have brachycephalic conformation. These breathing issues are often pronounced with exercise and become more evident as your dog ages. While this type of congestion in dogs is considered normal for certain breeds, their physical features can lead to severe issues such as nasal stenosis and laryngeal collapse, both of which require surgery. Here are the most common causes: 1. See also Inactive Canine? You may be able to see the leaf, wood chip, piece of grass, or whatever your pup has managed to get up their nose protruding out of their nostril. In that case, gently remove it with tweezers. If you cannot see or are uncomfortable removing the obstruction, have a veterinarian examine your dog and remove the object. They may need to sedate your pup if the foreign body is far up its nostril and will provide the best follow-up treatment. Dogs and humans can share many of the same allergies, including allergies to several environmental substances. These include grass, pollen, dust mites, and more. Your pup may even be intolerant to cigarette smoke, certain types of medicine, or chemicals used in cleaning. Not only can congestion be a symptom of allergies in dogs, but they may also experience itchiness, runny eyes , inflamed skin, diarrhea, vomiting, and constant licking , among other symptoms. Respiratory Infections If your pup suddenly becomes congested, you are most likely dealing with a respiratory infection. A viral infection is the most likely cause of sudden congestion or sinusitis in your dog, and congestion is the result of inflammation and excess mucus. Several common respiratory infections and conditions develop in dogs, including kennel cough, pneumonia, dog flu, rhinitis, chronic bronchitis, and tracheal collapse. Schedule a vet appointment immediately if you suspect your dog has a respiratory infection. Many of these conditions must be treated as soon as possible to avoid serious health consequences. Age While age alone could be causing your furry friend to sound congested due to weakened cartilage in the airways , this is sadly not the only reason why this may occur. Heart disease is most common in older dogs, which may cause congestion and wheezing. Your older dog may find physical activity difficult as a result or is experiencing difficulty breathing due to lethargy. Sleeping Position Have you noticed that your dog only seems to sound congested when sleeping? Lying awkwardly can cause a slight obstruction in their airway, making them sound congested and increasing their likelihood of snoring. Air Quality The air quality in your home could be causing congestion in your pup and, unsurprisingly, yourself. This can result in fungal infection, with your dog sounding congested for even weeks or months at a time. Sedation Has your dog recently been sedated due to a medical procedure or surgery? Plus, your dog will be a little more sluggish than usual. Tumors Sadly, several types of tumors, both benign and cancerous, may cause congestion in dogs due to upper airway disease. These are primary tracheal tumors and will need to be removed to clear the obstruction in the airway. A humidifier can help reduce inflammation and release congestion, as can the steam from a hot shower. When using a humidifier, remember not to add any essential oils, as they may be toxic to animals. While it could result from something as minor as a doggy head cold, it could also be more serious. How useful was this post? Click on a star to rate it! Submit Rating Please give us feedback on this post: Let us improve this post! Tell us how we can improve this post? She is a strong healthcare services professional with a graduate degree from St. George's University. You can connect with her on LinkedIn. Post navigation. Patches of fur loss , often circle-shaped; Patches of red, irritated, and scaly skin. Parvovirus can also be also deadly when untreated, another condition associated with congestion in puppies and dogs. Kennel cough is another highly contagious disease that could affect puppies newly separated from their mother and siblings. How to Help a Congested Dog A trip to the vet is in order if your dog sounds congested when breathing. Early diagnosis means fast treatment, which in turn means a quicker recovery time and a higher chance of recovery success. Some medical complaints will not go away without treatment. This includes pneumonia, which is usually treated with antibiotics. Your pooch can only get those antibiotics if they have been prescribed them. More pressing cases could even require a night or two in the doggo hospital, for IV antibiotics and fluids. Allergies are often treated using antihistamines. Parvovirus, on the other hand, is much more serious, requiring quarantine and intensive medication courses. Heart disease will often require long-term medication, particularly in middle to older-aged dogs. By not going to the vet with your poor pooch, you are running the risk of letting a potentially deadly disease, such as Parvovirus, run rampant. Vacuuming regularly, using a filter vacuum, will keep dust, mites , and other allergens to a minimum. Check Your Products Have you recently changed the cleaning products you use? Or laundry detergent? How about home fragrances, perfumes and colognes, or even hairsprays? All these things can agitate sensitive doggos, causing congestion, particularly with pampered, mostly indoor breeds. Overweight dogs will experience a host of problems, including congestion and respiratory conditions. If your dog has outdoor-related allergies, however, this might not be the best idea. Emergency Fund Worried about the cost of vet care for your precious pooch? Why not let Petcube take away some of that stress? FAQ What can I give my dog for congestion? It is not recommended to give your dog any kind of over-the-counter medication that you — yourself — would take. When should I take a dog with chest congestion symptoms to the vet? Most benign causes behind congestion in dogs will clear up before that, so a longer bout of it would indicate an underlying problem. Are there high-risk congested dog breeds? Yes, certain breeds of dogs are prone to suffering from congestion more than others. Short-nosed or flat-nosed breeds, such as bulldogs and pugs, experience breathing problems more frequently than others. Was this article helpful? Finding out the exact cause will better aid the treatment so that you can get your pup feeling better quickly. Viral infection: Think of this as the common cold. A viral infection of the sinuses or nasal passages can cause swelling and inflammation that makes it hard for your pup to breathe. It may also bring on a runny nose and eyes, usually with clear discharge, coughing, sneezing, and lethargy. Most viral infections tend to be mild to moderate. Viral infections usually find their way to a dog by contact with other infected dogs. Bacterial infection: Bacteria also like to make their way into the nasal passages, sinuses, and chests of our canine companions. The trouble with bacteria is they tend to elicit an immune response that creates thick, colored discharge from the eye and nose, along with inflammation of the airways, making it even harder for a dog to breathe. Dogs may also run a fever, cough, sneeze, not eat, and be lethargic. Occasionally, chest congestion in dogs can be due to pneumonia, a serious infection of the lungs that requires immediate treatment so that a dog can breathe. Bacterial respiratory infections can be passed from dog to dog or by contact with bacteria on objects. Fungal infection: Depending on where you live, fungal infections that cause congestion in dogs can be a concern. Fungal spores from the environment can reproduce in the respiratory system and cause congestion in dogs. These infections tend to go on and on, and owners may not notice anything other than a cough and mild congestion that lasts for weeks or even months. Allergies: Some dogs respond to pollen, mold, dust, and smoke like humans do. Lots of sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, runny noses, and congestion can occur due to allergies. For some dogs, these signs are seasonal. For others, they may happen any time of the year. Foreign objects: Dogs love to explore their world with their noses, making it easy to inhale grass seeds, dirt, or anything small enough to make it through their nostrils. Some foreign objects can get lodged in the nasal passage or sinuses, causing inflammation and congestion. Infections may occur secondary to foreign objects as well. Depending on where the foreign object is, dogs may also sneeze, have a runny or bloody nose, or cough if the object is in their chest. Others: Less frequently congestion in dogs may be a result of a tumor or heart disease. Other signs will depend on the issue and where it is, but you may notice dogs not wanting to exercise, difficulty breathing, nasal discharge, coughing, bloody nose, or lethargy. Is it Nose or Chest Congestion? They may also snort, sniff, or whistle when trying to get air through their nasal passageways, similar to the way a Bulldog breathes normally. For Bulldog owners out there, of course, this is completely normal, which can make it a little difficult to determine when your short-nosed breed is congested. For chest congestion, there will almost always be coughing. The cough will usually be moist and phlegmy since they are trying to dislodge the mucous that is partially causing the congestion. Dogs may also wheeze when trying to breathe since chest congestion makes it difficult to get air into the lungs. If your dog is having some coughing, sneezing, and a runny nose with their congestion, but is otherwise eating well and moving around normally, try some of the following steps first. Use a humidifier. The moist air from a humidifier can help to decrease inflammation and congestion of the airways. Treat your dog to shower. Do not get your pup wet, but simply let them sit in the bathroom while a hot shower is running. The warm, moist air from your shower is for him. Bringing your dog into the bathroom with you while you shower can help to break up mild nasal and sinus congestion. Give him a little TLC. A cold is a cold, and we all know what that feels like. If your dog has more serious signs, such as difficulty breathing, a fever, not eating, or a persistent cough, get a vet appointment. More serious forms of congestion should be seen by a veterinarian. If your dog starts to show any signs of getting worse, such as stopping eating, running a fever, or having difficulty breathing, get the next available appointment. If you notice a lot of open-mouth breathing or belly breathing, see your veterinarian as soon as possible. Blood work and x-rays may also be done to check for pneumonia, heart issues, and tumors. Your vet may also collect samples of any nasal discharge or phlegm to culture for bacteria. For viral and bacterial infections, antibiotics are typically given to fight the infection or to prevent secondary infections. Fungal infections take a long course of antifungals. If caught early and treated properly, most infections, including pneumonia, can be treated with a very favorable outcome. Treating allergies can be a sticky situation. Of course, the best allergy treatment is removing the allergen. Sounds easy, except it can be very difficult to pinpoint the exact allergens that affect your dog and cause them congestion. Some congestion-causing allergies respond to antihistamines, others need different therapies. Allergy testing and allergy shots are available with variable results. Foreign objects will more than likely need to be removed, and then the damage that they cause will need to be treated. Removal will require sedation or even surgery, depending on where the problem lies. Your dog may then need anti-inflammatories and antibiotics as a follow-up. Disclaimer: This content is not a substitute for veterinary care. Always consult with your vet for health decisions. Learn more. Also, be ready to tell your vet about any other signs your dog may be showing, such as not eating, or lethargy, and if other dogs in your household are affected. If your dog coughs up or sneezes a lot of phlegm, you may want to grab a sample to show your vet just in case. FAQ Are certain breeds more likely to be affected by congestion than others? Brachycephalic breeds, such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers, are more likely to experience congestion since they are prone to breathing problems already. What if my dog sounds congested only when sleeping? Snoring or snorting while sleeping can be concerning and may be caused by different things. Some congestion during sleeping may be due to the position that your dog is sleeping in. Benadryl is safe to give to most healthy dogs. She has over 10 years of experience in small animal veterinary practice, working for a veterinary clinic in Idaho. How useful is this page? Help us improve. Click on a star to rate it: Submit Rating. It may or may not be normal for a Pug to: Pant Burp Have loud breathing Panting and loud breathing sounds are expected- to an extent- from Pugs of all ages - puppies to seniors. Because of how a Pug dog's head and snout is shaped, it is normal for this breed to have to catch their breath every now and then. With this said, heat stress or over-exercise can cause heavier than normal panting noises that require an immediate break from activity, a drink of water and possibly other treatment if the Pug cannot calm down. Since this dog breed overheats very quickly, panting will occur as soon as the dog begins to feel too hot; so this can often happen on hot or humid days or if your Pug ends up walking or running around longer than planned. If a Pug is making noises that appear to be stressed breathing, an owner should bring their dog into a cool environment and allow their Pug to rest. If this is happening, the dog is in distress; most likely from a blockage of some type. An elognated palate can be partially blocking the air way, causing loud breathing sounds. Stenotic Nares narrow or closed nostrils can also cause a Pug to struggle with normal breathing. Both of these issues are common health problems with the breed and often resolved with a surgical procedure. If a Pug dog burps, this may be triggered by the food that he is eating or the rate at which he is eating it. While you may not be able to eliminate all of the burping, making even small changes to his diet can help often the removal of a particular vegetable works. Additionally, obtaining a slow-eat bowl or portion pacer to add to an existing bowl allows for slower consumption of food which means less air is being gulped down. If the burping is excessive, this may point to an acid reflex problem and your vet should be made aware of just how often your Pug is indeed burping. You may also be interested in: Pug Dog Breathing Problems - Being a brachycephalic flat faced breed, there expected to be some level of breathing issues with Pugs. Learn what is normal and what is not. Pug Sleeping Habits - How much sleep is normal according to age, ways to help your Pug get a good night's sleep and more. Pugs and Gas Problems - If your Pug is letting one rip quite often, there are some things you can do to cut down on flatulence. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. I have been reading a lot of tips and info about Pugs and general dog care on the web. I understand that Pugs generally tend to suffer from colds more frequently, than the other dogs with normal snouts. I would really like to know if its a cause of concern and is it required to visit a vet every time my Pug shows symptoms of cold? She is otherwise very active and in good health. As an alternative I would like to know if there is a home remedy for such frequent colds and runny nose. Am I right that Pugs can get a lot of colds? Thanks for your answer. Answer: This is a very good and important Pug dog question, as one must keep a close eye on a Pug showing possible cold symptoms. Studies have shown that Pug dogs do not suffer from colds more often than other dog breeds. Why do people think they do? Because with the Pug the symptoms are stronger and more noticeable. When another breed gets a cold, they may have a bit of a runny nose. But when a Pug dog gets a cold, it is extremely noticeable. As you say, their snouts are different that most other dog breeds. There is often a lot of congestion and a lot of related noises such as even more snorting, wheezing and snoring than usual. Other conditions may mimic a cold - When a Pug shows cold symptoms quite often, this could actually be allergies. Dogs can suffer from allergies just as humans do. The symptoms can be the same as a cold. With canines, colds due to virus easily turn into infection and with the Pug being a brachycephalic breed with compacted nasal passages, this is even more common. Finally, there are other less common diseases and viruses that have cold-like symptoms including kennel cough and distemper. When should you bring her to the vet? While you don't want to bring your puppy or dog to the vet for every case of minor eye or nasal discharge, you will want to keep in mind some signs that do warrant further testing: Cold symptoms that last longer than 3 days. This includes runny nose, coughing, loud breathing and other Any worsening or additional signs including fever, not eating , not drinking, severe weakness, hacking severe cough Testing will be done to look for allergies or other sources of the cold-like symptoms and treatment will vary depending on the findings. Antihistamines are often given for these types of issues and antibiotics are needed for a wide array of infections including an ear, nose or throat infection that a Pug may have developed. More serious disease such as kennel cough and distemper will need to be ruled out. Regarding home remedies for dog colds: You may find some across the web, but please be careful. The Pug dog is extremely sensitive to what he ingests and we strongly suggest never experimenting with home remedies. You can do a few simple things that one would do for humans: Allow your Pug to rest a lot, encourage drinking fresh clean water and limit exercise until she is feeling better. Be sure to keep up with wiping any discharge from the face, including the eyes, snout and facial wrinkles. To sum it up: 1 Bring her to the vet to rule out allergies - Steps can be then taken to eliminate the trigger and treat the symptoms 2 If she is indeed suffering from common colds, there is no need to rush to the vet each time if it is only a matter of a slight runny nose or other minor issue 3 Bring her to the veterinarian if she is not better in 3 days or shows severe symptoms - she may need antibiotics PetPugDog. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. If they sound congested or are breathing more heavily than they usually would, it can be alarming. There are many reasons your dog may experience congestion, most of which are nothing to worry about. They may have a cold or have changed into an odd sleeping position. Whatever the case may be, we will go over why your dog may sound congested and when to consult a vet. Typically, when your dog sounds congested when sleeping, nothing is wrong. However, it may be a sign of something more severe in some cases. If you notice signs of congestion in your dog, keep a close eye on it and note any changes. Common Reasons for Nighttime Congestion in Dogs Here are the most common reasons dogs are congested at night. Dogs are like humans in that the way they sleep affects their breathing. If it seems like your dog only makes strange sounds in their sleep while lying in an unusual position, you more than likely have no reason to be concerned. However, if the noises persist, no matter how they lie, there may be another cause. Allergies or a Cold Dogs are more like people than we think and can experience allergies or catch a cold. Our pups go through the same symptoms that an allergic reaction or illness gives us. Dogs that have colds will have a stuffy nose, causing some congestion. You may notice other symptoms in combination, such as sneezing or a runny nose. They may even have a fever. Learn how Wild Earth can help your dog live longer and visit the vet less. Take The Quiz Dental Issues Poor doggy dental health may cause various issues, including congested sounds. If your pup has an infection or a cavity, it can affect how they sound in their sleep. Their mouth is connected to their airway, so any irritation may transfer to their breathing. Medication Side Effects Have you given your dog a new medication recently? If so, check the side effects to see if they include congestion. Some medicines may also make dogs feel drowsier, causing them to have a deeper sleep, which may cause snoring sounds. Obesity Obese and overwei ght dogs can cause poor health, including their lungs. Ensure that your dog is within the recommended weight range for their breed. Offer treats sparingly, as the calories can quickly add up. You can also use healthier treats, such as baby carrots, that your pup is sure to love just as much. Dogs Breeds With Congested Breathing Some dog breeds are more prone to congested breathing than others due to their anatomy. If you have a dog breed such as a pug or French bulldog, this is normal for their species. Age Older dogs are more likely to snore or sound congested while they sleep. As they age, the nerves in their airways start to weaken. Although this is normal and is usually not a cause for concern, it could signify laryngeal paralysis. If you notice that the congestion or snoring disturbs your senior dog, talk to your veterinarian to rule out any illnesses. Secondhand Smoke We all know that if you smoke a cigarette near another person, it can affect their lungs. The inflammation the smoke causes to their airways can cause snoring or congestion. If you smoke, always do so outside, away from any people or pets. Although congestion is normal in dogs, there are some ways you can help them, especially if they have a cold. If their weight is the cause, ensure they are on a healthy diet with plenty of playtime and exercise. Take note of any medications you may have recently given them. Pay attention to the time of year your dog snores. If your dog snores more in the summer, they are likely to experience seasonal allergies. Try Home Remedies If your dog has other cold-like symptoms or you suspect seasonal allergies, here are some remedies to help them with congestion: Antihistamines can help dogs the same way they help people. Consult your vet to get the proper dosage. Use a humidifier at night; some extra humidity may help clear their airways. Get rid of any lingering bacteria by cleaning their bedding, bowls, toys, or anything else they use regularly Chicken soup helps dogs just as much as humans who are congested. Feed them lukewarm low-sodium broth, cooked veggies, and brown rice to help clear their sinuses. In some cases, it can be indicative of issues. More on Dog Knowledge:. Vet did a nose swab and found this bacteria. Reply: Hi Natalie, thanks for your question. This is important because even a small amount of fluid or swelling of the tissues here can make a dog very congested and uncomfortable. Behind these 2 chambers is a common space where left and right nasal chambers meet called the nasopharynx; the floor of this is made up of a strong muscular band called the soft palate. When breathing, the soft palate prevents food from entering the nasal passages. The air then flows through the larynx voicebox , down the trachea windpipe and into the lungs. Opening out of the airways in the skull are the sinuses; these are hollow spaces inside the bone that make the head lighter and easier for the dog to carry around. There are 2 sets — on each side of the skull is a frontal sinus in the forehead and maxillary sinus in the upper jaw, just above the tooth roots. Dogs can be divided into 3 different groups of breeds, based on their skull shape: Dolichocephalic — dogs with long noses, e. Greyhounds Mesocephalic also known as mesaticephalic — dogs with medium noses most dogs, e. Labradors Brachycephalic — dogs with short noses e. As one of the most extreme brachycephalic breeds, Pugs almost always suffer from some degree of Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome. This is a condition caused by selective breeding over many generations for an abnormally short skull, and includes a range of conditions such as: Nostril Stenosis — narrowing of the nostrils. Elongated Soft Palate — over-long soft palate that blocks the airway. Everted Laryngeal Saccules — folds of flesh that stick out into the voicebox, blocking airflow. Hypoplastic Trachea — where the windpipe is a little too narrow. As a result, Pugs have loads of extra folds of tissue in their nasal chambers and airways, making breathing a little more difficult. Other possible underlying causes include: Foreign bodies — dogs are particularly prone to getting things stuck up their noses, like grass seeds or even bits of food. Tooth infection — because the roots of some of the upper teeth are right next to the maxillary sinuses, an infection of the tooth can cause sinusitis and nasal infection. Fungal infections — fairly rare in the UK, but they do occur. Polyps — benign growths in the nasal chambers or pharynx. Tumours — malignant growths of the airways. Once the infection is resolved, however, the symptoms may persist or recur because the underlying problem has not been addressed. What is Pseudomonas? Pseudomonas is a Gram Negative bacterium meaning it has a double cell membrane as well as a cell wall that commonly causes skin, ear and sometimes nasal infections. It is a very tough organism, and is prone to rapidly developing resistance to antibiotics. This means that in most cases, a prolonged usually weeks course is required to ensure that it is completely eliminated. There are a number of possible reasons. You give an antibiotic that the bacterium is proven to be sensitive to, and within a week or two, the test results show that they have gained resistance to it. OK, what should I do next? The first step would be for your vet to repeat the nasal swab if possible, using the same laboratory and see how the results are different — what bacteria are growing there now, and what antibiotics they are susceptible to. All the best, I hope you can get this sorted out quickly.

They have goofy personalities, they crave all the love and attention we like to give, and their pint-sized nature make them the perfect on the go companions. Notorious for taking naps just about anywhere, these lil' comedians will keep you smiling day after day. And it doesn't take much to keep these easygoing pups entertained, too! Just give them a good plush toy —and of course some of their favorite treats—and they're one happy camper. While Frenchies are incredibly popular and lovable companions—owning one of these breeds usually means plenty of visits to the veterinarian. If you're considering adding a French bulldog to your family be warned they are a brachycephalic breed, which means they can have trouble breathing and are susceptible to gagging and regurgitation, exercise intolerance, and obesity. If you're having a bad day or just need a reason to smile, here are 18 pictures of French bulldogs snuggling, smiling, and sporting their best costumes. I need some fashion tips from this doll ASAP. Stop and Smell the Flowers I can't tell which view is more beautiful … harleyishandsome or the garden. Just kidding, Harley is one of the most beautiful Frenchies we've ever seen! If your dog loves sniffing flowers too, brush up on dog-safe plants, shrubs, and trees. Beep Beep! Get in loser, we're going shopping for treats! The Perfect Cuddle Buddies Something about dogs and cats cuddling just makes me tear up every. A little bit of water, some sun, lots of treats, and a bunch of hugs and kisses! This photo is transporting me to Disney World , and I'm totally here for it. Triceratops Frenchie Sorry for the mix-up. This is supposed to be an article about cute French bulldogs. This is clearly a Triceratops. Don't know how this photo snuck in here. Fin-tastic Run for your lives! Joy the shark will smother you with cuteness and kisses! If you love dogs dressed as sharks, you should check out these hilarious aquarium pups. Here are the best treats for training your dog , according to a professional dog trainer. Passion for Fashion Can someone get me the number for these dogs' stylist?! I need to look as fly as they do when I go out for happy hour. Party Animal loganouioui is clearly the life of the party. I mean, that face just screams "Let's dance all night long! Congrats on your epic stick score bulldogbuddha! But Allorathefrenchie is so darn cute in her little bow that we'll let her wear pink all day every day. Sweet Potato Dogs are actually a lot like sweet potatoes if you think about it. Both are squishy, the perfect size, and sweet in the best way! Not saying I'm totally jealous of a dog … but I'm jealous of a dog. You deserve all the bones and sun Dilla! There's so many adventures to be had buddy! Catching Some Rays Do not disturb, too busy tanning and being too adorable for words. Don't forget the doggy sunscreen mr. Pin19 19 Shares French Bulldogs are renowned as being one of the most friendly and sociable dog breeds on the planet. In fact, they do smile, and I am going to show you how! Do French Bulldogs smile? French Bulldogs have very wide mouths and can show a smile by opening wide with their lips curled up. Can my French Bulldog smile? Some Frenchies will have more expressions in their face than others. Some French Bulldogs can smile with a huge and obvious grin, others not so much. If you are going to buy a puppy, and really want a smiler, ask to look at photos of the mother and father if possible. Handy Hint: For first time buyers of Frenchies, read this guide to what you really need to know before taking the plunge and getting your pet. Photos of French Bulldogs smiling I took a look on Pinterest to see if I could find some of the best examples of French Bulldog smiles so you can see exactly what their adorable grins look like. Check these winning smiles out below. Image copyright FrenchieLoveNz on Instagram no longer a live account. This Frenchie has a beautiful grin and smiling eyes. Image copyright of Pixabay. Probably the most famous photo of a French Bulldog smile you will find anywhere on the Internet. Image copyright of Stockunlimited. This is our own French Bulldog smiling, his name is Claude! Image found via Reddit. This looks like a Frenchie puppy younger than 8 weeks, so only a breeder could have taken this photo. And if all else fails, you can always get your Frenchie to fake a smile! How can you tell if a Frenchie is happy if he is not smiling? Your French Bulldog might not always smile to show happiness. He wiggles his bottom he needs to with that lack of a tail. He gives you the classic puppy dog eyes look. His mouth is in a relaxed position. His ears are relaxed and not in a backwards position. His body is relaxed and not stiff. He wants to play and have fun with you. He is not exhibiting any destructive behaviour including eating his poop. He has a healthy appetite and is eating his food. He might stick his tongue out a little bit see the 4th photo in my gallery above of Claude when he was a puppy. He has a healthy and clean coat of fur. He likes to be close and lean into his owner. How you can keep your French Bulldog smiling If you want to keep a happy and health pet there are a few things you can do to help keep your Frenchie smiling. Make sure he has plenty of regular and interesting exercise. Make sure you clean his ears and skin folds clean. Make sure that he has some chewable toys to play with see some great examples. Make sure you keep him groomed with regular weekly brushing. Make sure he lives and stays indoors they are not outdoor dogs. Why do French Bulldogs smile though? Other dog breeds have far more expressive faces, and experts believe the dogs learned to smile in response to humans. Over the years of being domesticated, dogs have learned to smile in order to reflect happiness back to humans. They have also learned that they might even get a positive response such as a treat if they smile at us. To find out more, read this article on DogHealth. Handy Hint: If you think your Frenchie is sad and depressed you might want to read this guide to Frenchie depression. It contains all the signs to look out for should you pup be unhappy. All transactions are between the consumers and the breeder. Smiling French Bulldogs is not responsible for any transaction made between the parties. Money arrangements, contracts, rehoming, co-owning, shipping, meeting arrangements and any other transactions between the two parties is solely the responsibility of the consumers and the breeder. If you have issue with anything, you must take it up with the other party. If you feel a breeder has violated our community standards, you can report the breeder to us. After investigation of your complaint, we will determine a result and reply to you with our results. If we feel the breeder has breached our community standards, they will be blacklisted, and we will cut all future business with that breeder. We appreciate all feedback and encourage that everyone does good business with proper etiquette. Our transaction went smooth and everything was very professional. Bryant We are doing a co-own and they have gone above and beyond what we expected. They are amazing people and they take their business very seriously. Rosa Thank you so much! Our daughter is going to love him! Alicia My girls are in love! Thank you for being super professional.