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Now in Indianapolis area, Indiana! We have Top European bloodline German Shepherd puppies from titled and health tested parents raised in our home to yours! We breed West German showlines and West German working lines. Phone: Email: [email protected] Our fall litter is here! Ready to go home in October we have 3 beautiful males available! Training dogs professionally since and breeding German shepherd puppies since , we have relocated to give an even better life for our beloved dog family and to be closer to our training club to better title our dogs! Located in the Indianapolis Indiana metropolitan area we are nestled on a beautiful plot of 10 acres in the quiet country. The dogs absolutely love it here and so do we! Here at Aus Gerstbrei German shepherds, our dogs happiness and well being is very important to us and we love beautiful, healthy, stable temperament dogs. We only breed from health tested and titled parents to ensure that our families get the absolute best puppies we can provide for them. We also keep from our own program and train ourselves so we know what we are breeding and what their strengths and weaknesses are so we can choose appropriate mating partners to make our dogs even better. Improving the breed is very important to us. .We fly all over the world to the best studs that we may find the best suitable partners for our girls. We breed black and red West German Showlines and sometimes will use some West German working lines in our program. I grew up with dogs and was always fascinated with things you could teach them and how much love an animal could offer to a human. In my adult life I originally started working with rescue dogs out of college, and helping foster and rehabilitating them which was a very rewarding experience and taught me a lot, especially patience! As I worked my career as an artist I also became fascinated with the sport of IGP to bring a dog to its highest point of drive and have control and such a trusting obedience relationship with them. I had started hunting for my first IGP dog and had a very hard time coming up with dogs with good health and good temperament from breeders. I had a dog but he lacked the qualities to get beyond a BH which we worked hard for and developed many health issues. I had then decided to get exactly what I wanted in a dog I would pursue breeding my own and start my own bloodline. Families are my biggest client so the need for a stable dog that can settle is very important when breeding future generations. I am still a huge supporter of rescue and I do still accept board and train clients from time to time when we are not preparing for trials or raising a litter. Our prices reflect on the hard work, training, and expensive titling and health testing we do. If you can not pay for a well bred dog from tested and titled parents we highly recommend checking out your local reputable German Shepherd rescue. Some great dogs can sometimes find their way into rescue at no fault of their own. We are located about one hour from Indianapolis, Indiana and also about two hours from Louisville, Kentucky. Please call or email to inquire about trained dogs, German shepherd puppy litters, or about our board and train program. We are German Shepherd breeders and trainers in Indiana. German Shepherds for sale in Indiana Regis Regal Specializes in providing world class German Shepherd puppies and trained adult dogs Serving Indiana with german shepherds since With over 30 years experience in the breeding and training of world-class German Shepherds from some of the top bloodlines out of Germany, here at Regis Regal German Shepherds we've been very proud to have sold our puppies and adult dogs to the residents of Indiana. We're a small family run operation with our main training and breeding facilities based in Spring Grove, Illinois. Because of the quality and pedigree of our German Shepherds there's been a demand for our dogs all over the world. The owner, Cynthia Kelly, has a lifetime of experience in creating the perfect family companion, service dog or therapy dog. Because of the lack of top quality German Shepherd breeders in some parts of the United States, we've carefully set ourselves up so that we can send our dogs direct to your home by use of a private courier service. German Shepherd Breeders in Indiana There are a number of great German Shepherd breeders in Indiana, from Indianapolis to Evansville, but have you considered looking further afield for the perfect puppy? At Regis Regal German Shepherds we produce a select number of puppies at any one time, and take the utmost care when raising and training them ready for ownership. You should not forget that when it comes to buying a puppy you also need to be mindful of other costs outside of the purchase or adoption fee. Send us a message or give us a ring on .Emotional support dogs are suited for both children and adults and have the ability to work with their owners in all types of locations. We have placed many dogs with children and teenagers in Indiana that suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and manic disorders. Service dogs provide a physical service to their owners. We have been incredibly successful in providing service dogs to children afflicted with Autism and Asbergers, as our dogs can help to enhance the verbal skills of non-verbal Autistic children and support their overall way of communicating. Some of our previous placements our dog courier service - we ship to your door in Indiana! You might find this a bit hard to believe but we actually ship right to your door, wherever you are based in the US! Such is the demand for one of our dogs we decided it would make things a lot easier for our customers if we could hand-deliver them right to you. For those people in need of a top class GSD, and who can't get to our premises, this is a bit of a lifesaver. We make use of a private courier service whereby they come to us and pickup the dog in their vehicle before making the journey to your home. Our driver is well trained in the handling and care of your dog on the trip, and due to their temperament our dogs always enjoy the journey! On rare occasions our dogs have flown out to their destination, again accommpanied by one of the Regis Regal team to ensure for a very smooth and calm trip. We also go through a very thorough process to make sure our dogs are going to the right kind of owner - at the end of the day it's really important that we can rest easy at night knowing they'll be going to someone that's going to love them as much as we do. Because of COVID we've held plenty of online meetings where you can ask us any questions about our dogs, and you can even get to meet-and-greet them virtually! Reviews from Customers based in IN We like to think we've made a lot of people in Indiana happy over the years that we've been in business. Take a look below at some of the feedback we've received to date. You can find more reviews of ours here too. Her staff is responsive, caring and provides guidance every step of the way. I'm so thankful for her and her guidance. As you can imagine this can change quite regularly - so please send us a message below, or give us a call on .We look forward to hearing from you! Your name. Regular and Long Coats available. Our pups always have their 1st vaccines, are de- wormed, and are very well socialized. Fed high quality diet. Over 35 years experience with German Shepherds. We are a smaller kennel with high quality dogs thoughtfully bred. Also Therapy Dog International Testing and nursing home visits. My focus has been to breed beautiful, healthy, and easily trained dogs. German Shepherds are naturally protective and make excellent family guardians, but do require that you take the time to train them well. I am a Registered Vet Tech, and RN, and as such I have a thorough background knowledge of many potential health issues. The German Shepherd breed has many health and temperament problems, and there are no perfect dogs — but I try hard to avoid and weed out the issues I find. It brings me great satisfaction when I get pictures and stories of my pups that turned out well. Micro chipping is also available. I will assist you via phone or email with continuing questions and concerns regarding the pups and training, and of course love to hear brags. Carla Eikelberg R. We Are Dedicated! We simply love German Shepherds! As one of the premier reputable German Shepherd breeders indiana has, we focus on healthy GSD puppies for sale that are exceptional quality. From their amazing working dog traits to their loving and compassionate companion dog personality, we love German Shepherds and have dedicated our lives to the betterment of the breed. Full blooded, sable, solid black, silver, no matter what we love this breed! We are also passionate about training in a variety of working areas including obedience, puppy training and basic training. You have many choices when it comes to who you adopt your new German Shepherd puppy from! We are honored to know that so many people choose us because we believe in healthy, happy and beautiful GSD puppies. From our health clearances to our excellent pedigrees, we take pride to knowing our German Shepherds are top of the line! So no matter if you are searching for a German Shepherd Breeder in Indiana, Michigan or Ohio, we hope to earn your business through honesty, integrity and ethical breeding practices! Puppy Links.

Of course, the cost of your future puppy can be determined by a lot of factors, but most breeders will fall into this range. Are Parti Poodles More Expensive? Yes, the Parti Poodle can be more expensive than a standard solid-colored Poodle. This is due to the fact that the Parti-colored variety is known as a rare color. So, a breeder will typically charge more for that puppy than, say, a solid-colored one. Now, this is not the case with every breeder, but most of the time is. Where Can I Find a Reputable Parti Poodle Breeder Poodles are a very popular dog breed, so it can be difficult to figure out which breeder you should go with. Unfortunately, not all Poodle breeders breed the Parti Poodle colored variety. So, below you will find four very reputable Parti Poodle breeders. They are passionate about breeding the standard Poodle in a variety of different colors. They even offer Parti Poodles puppies for sale , which is a rare coloring. All of their poodles are registered with the AKC. Their kennel and facility is located in Little Rock, Arkansas. They have their own grooming , kennels, and whelping section. All puppies come with a two-year health guarantee to ensure that your dog is healthy. The entire team helps raise and take care of the puppies until they go home to their new owner. The only difference between their Parti Poodles and their Standard Poodles is just the color. They all have great personalities and temperaments. All dogs and even puppies get socialized to develop really great temperaments. You will want to get on the waiting list because most of the time when this breeder has a litter, there are already people waiting and the puppies get all reserved. So, my advice for you is to contact the breeder and express your interest. Ask questions and see if you can place a deposit on a future litter of Parti Poodle puppies. You can do that here: Smith Standard Poodles. The passion and love for this dog breed came to this breeder a long time ago. She got her first Poodle Bonnie a long time ago when she was a little girl, and Bonnie was truly one of the best dogs around. That is when this breeder knew that one day, she wanted to provide families with amazing dogs just like her dog Bonnie. So today, she runs this breeding operation breeding a variety of different colored Poodles, including the Parti Poodle. This breeder is located in Huntsville, Alabama, and lives on a four-acre lot where all of her dogs get to run around and play. All of her dogs live inside of her home and not in a kennel. When puppies arrive, it is very important to the breeder that they start early neurological stimulation. This is done through days 3 to 14, and this gets your dog used to different environments , people, and sounds. The best way to get in touch with this breeder is by first filling out the puppy application. This will let the breeder know you are interested in Parti Poodle puppies for sale. Once you fill that out, the breeder will either approve you or not and let you know the rest of the process. You will then get up-to-date information on the next litter. For the past 26 years of her life, she has been breeding show Spanish Horses. This became a lot of work for this husband-and-wife team. After countless years of breeding, they decided to scale back. Manuela had always had a love for Poodles and decided to start that breeding venture. She offers a variety of litters today, including the Parti Poodle and Phantom Poodle. All of her Poodles are registered with the AKC making them high-quality dogs that follow the breed standard and conformation. This breeder only breeds healthy dogs that have passed their OFA hip and elbow tests. This ensures that your new puppy will be healthy when born. In addition, all puppies get whelped and raised right inside the home, where they receive a lot of attention, socialization, and learn new experiences. This breeder also participates in early neurological stimulation, which is very important in raising healthy and sound dogs. Like other breeders, you will want to fill out the puppy application to be considered to get one of these Parti Poodle puppies for sale. Once you get approved and sign your adoption agreement, you will then place a deposit down to reserve your spot for a puppy. You will need to come pick up your puppy in person, as this breeder is currently not shipping dogs at this time. This is another great option, especially if you want a parti-colored Poodle, as this breeder has multiple litters each year. The Poodles raised here get an exceptional life with the freedom to roam around and play on forty acres of land. This breeder specializes in breeding the Poodles in the following of colors such as Parti colored, Tri-Color, Brindle, Red, and Phantom. Dogs are allowed outside to play in a separate area on the property. When a dog is whelping, she gets to the home, where she is closely monitored and cared for. After the puppies are born and two weeks old, the mother and puppies are moved to the nursery room. Typically, puppies are reserved through a waiting list. To get on this list, you need to already be in contact with the owner. The best way to do this is through email or by phone. Parti Poodle Rescue I was not able to find a specific Parti Poodle rescue, but there are a variety of Poodle-specific rescues out in the world. You may get lucky and find one with a Parti Poodle, but these rescues will have standard Poodles and mixes most of the time. One rescue you can contact is the Carolina Poodle Rescue. This is a non-profit no-kill shelter dedicated to rescuing and rehoming the poodle dog breed. Again, they have a variety of dogs available for adoption, and they also rescue mixes. To be considered for as an adoption placement, you will need to fill out an application. Dogs here will cost significantly less than from a breeder. It can be hard to find a breeder that has this variety of dogs and one that offers Parti Poodle puppies for sale. I hope that you found this article with our breeder recommendations helpful. Let us know if you plan on getting one of these dogs in the comments below. A parti-poodle is a type of poodle with a coat pattern consisting of two or more distinct colors. The colors are usually in large patches or spots. Are parti poodles recognized by kennel clubs? Are parti poodles considered a separate breed from other poodles? No, parti poodles are not considered a separate breed. They are still poodles and belong to the same breed as solid-colored poodles. The parti pattern is simply a variation in coat color and pattern. Do parti poodles have any specific health concerns? Parti poodles do not have any specific health concerns related to their coat pattern. However, like all poodles, they may be prone to certain health issues common in the breed, such as hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy PRA , and certain skin conditions. Responsible breeding practices and regular veterinary care can help mitigate these risks. James is an author, a lifelong dog lover, and a former Special Forces Medical Sergeant who worked extensively with Military Working Dogs. Standard Poodles! Poodles are goofy, social, fun-loving, intelligent, highly-trainable, and desire human companionship. It is thought that the Poodle originated in Germany as far back as the Middle ages. Taking its name from the German word pudeln, which means "to splash in water". The Poodle was once exceptional at retrieving ducks from the marshes. The versatile Poodle is among the most intelligent and capable of breeds. It is easily trained and remains a popular family pet to this day. Our Poodles are all from Standard lines and are regal and calm, though they love to play. They bark to alert when someone arrives at the house, but are not barkers without purpose. Standard Poodles love to be near their family and are wonderful with other dogs and children. We produce solids, parti-factor or abstract, as well as Parti Standard Poodle Puppies! Our Parti Standard Poodle Puppies range from red and white, apricot and white, brown and white, black and white, and sable parti puppies. Our Poodle Dams and Sires are AKC Registered from excellent bloodlines and have obtained extensive health clearances prior to being bred. All three varieties have the same build and proportions. We do not currently offer miniature or toy puppies. Poodles can be black, red, white, apricot, brown, cream, Cafe Au Lait, silver beige, silver or blue, and may be a combination of these colors. Poodles carry the color patterns brindle, sable, ticking, abstract, tuxedo, parti, and phantom. They require brushing a few times a week, plus clipping and shaping every months. This longer clip though does require more frequent brushing at home to prevent matting of the Poodles curly coat. According to Slate Magazine, Poodles were originally used as foul hunting dogs. An unshorn Poodle's thick coat could weigh it down in the water. With the bottom half of its body shaved, the animal was more buoyant and could swim more freely. The long mane and hair around the chest were left intact to keep the poodle's vital organs warm in the cold water, and owners also kept the hair around the joints to protect them from cold and injury and to help prevent rheumatism. Shaving the hair around the face left the poodle's mouth and eyes free so it could fulfill its retrieving responsibilities, and tying the hair on a poodle's head into a "top knot" also kept hair out of its eyes. Owners eventually tied these knots with brightly colored ribbons to help them identify their dogs from afar. Daily walks are a must if you don't have a safely enclosed area for them to run freely. They love games and many are attracted to water and love to swim. As with any dog, socialization and training should start while the dog is still a puppy and continue throughout its life. Look for a puppy kindergarten class locally or join the AKC S. Puppy Program , training based on positive techniques. Find a class here. This is a great place to start socializing and training. A well-socialized, well-trained Poodle makes a wonderful family companion. Early socialization and training establishes those lifetime bonds between the family and puppy as these programs teach you how to communicate with your new puppy and get started on the right foot. The combination of white and any of those colors above make up for Parti Poodles. Parti Poodles may not be as common as compared to standard Poodles but some of their color combinations are so rare. When Parti Poodles are still young, the blending of their coat colors primary vs. As the dog ages, the coat color on specific areas of its body will be finalized until they reach adulthood. If you try combining two parts poodles, the color combination of the litter would be completely different from each other. The cause of these color variances in this dog is due to the microphthalmia-associated transcription factor MITF gene. Below is some other variance of multi-colored Poodles, each of which has distinctive characteristics which identify one from another. Some of the ones listed below are recognized in some events initiated by AKC. Interestingly, a Poodle with this genetic makeup will consistently pass on one copy of the "sp" allele to all of its offspring, making it a hereditary trait that can be passed down to the next generation. Then, the rest of its body is covered in the secondary color. Mismark poodles are also called by breeders Abstract poodles. Another way to distinguish these two is through their skin color. The skin Mismark poodle, on the other hand, follows the color of its primary coat. Multi-Patterned Poodles Colors These are Poodles having multi-colored coats or more than 1 of the accepted colored color patterns. At present, this type of breed is not yet accepted by American Kennel Clubs. Tuxedo Poodles Think of a Poodle in a tuxedo suit. This is how their coat is patterned giving them that distinctive look. Their special markings may be placed on different parts of their body. You will notice the markings in areas such as their neck, chest, and legs. These are spots or dots one would see on a Poodle's white coat. These posts are black or darker in color and can be regarded as dirt. This is the reason why breeders do not like to use dogs with ticking. The litter could end up with coats looking dirty. Origins of the Poodle According to history, the Poodles came from Germany. Originally used as hunting dogs, Poodles are considered one of the favorite pets these days. Over time, poodles were bred into smaller-sized and distinctive coat coverings. The French royalty even considered it a favored pet. Contrary to popular belief, it is the Parti Poodles that have a rich history. According to an article published by Huxtable the Poodle, Parti Poodles are often depicted in paintings and art during the ss. Even the first ever dog book published in the United States of America has contained information about Parti Poodles. Since most people preferred the Poodle in solid color, breeders would no longer register litters that are two-colored. There is no exact publication supporting where the name came from. There are some write-ups that state that Poodles were bred in the s by French people. The breed had gained a strong following across the European border. Its popularity crossed over the United States and other Asian countries too. The popularity of the Parti Poodle in the 18th and 19th centuries In the s and s owning a Parti Poodle meant that you were either part of the French royalty or a social aristocrat. It has become a status symbol. People with wealth and power are seen owning this dog breed. During this time, European aristocrats would use Parti Poodles during hunting season. Given the popularity of these dogs and their association with the rich and famous, Parti Poodles earned its place in the world of arts, and literature during this period. The decline of the Parti Poodle in the early 20th century In the early 20th, there were other dog breeds slowly taking the spotlight. Breeds such as German Shepherd, and Labrador Retriever have gained popularity causing the decline of the Parti Poodle. Both German Shepherds and Labradors are excellent hunting dogs which were much preferred. The decline in popularity was worsened by the onset of wars where breeding Parti Poodles became uncommon. The resurgence of the Parti Poodle in modern times Despite being on the brink of distinction, Parti Poodles managed to gain back its popularity again. Several factors helped its resurgence. Canine groups recognizing the Parti Poodles Allowing this dog breed to join shows and competition Increase in awareness and appreciation from dog lovers How Are Parti Poodles Bred Selective Breeding is a way in which Parti Poodles are bred. Credible breeders will choose which parents to use following the desired coat pattern. Ethical guidelines are what we practice at Stokeshire. Dogs also undergo genetic testing to avoid any medical issues being passed on to their litters. But how the litter will look is undetermined as their coat colors and markings will be different from one another. At present, particolored ones are still restricted from joining conformation shows or events organized by AKC. Although, they can still be registered in obedience and agility shows. UKC is considered the second-largest kennel organization in the United States. How Long Do Parti Poodles Live Life expectancy is years Some Parti Poodles may live shorter or longer depending on their genetic makeup, diet, exercise, and overall well-being. Some may be susceptible to health risks such as: Hip dysplasia. Parti Standard Poodles - If you love spots, you may want a parti poodle. A parti poodle is a poodle of white and another color. There are several distinct patterns: the tuxedo, spotted, and abstract all refer to a poodle that is white and another color. That color can be black, brown, red, apricot, creme, silver, blue, grey, cafe-au-lait, or silver-beige. Parti poodles are usually more than half white with colored spots. They can range from almost a solid white with just a few spots of color to the more colorful tuxedos. Tuxedos look like a poodle dressed for a party. They have white on the legs and a white collar that may or may not go completely around the neck. Tuxedo-colored poodles also have white on the belly that should extend up to the chest. Some tuxedos have colored legs almost to the feet and others have white all the way up to their back. Abstract poodles have limited white markings and are almost a solid colored dog. The most common abstract poodle marking is a simple white mark on the chest. White splashes of color may also occur on the face, head, chest, and feet. Abstract poodles sometimes have a white chest and white feet that look like they have been dipped in paint. Ticking marks are the small spots found within the white parts of the dog. Dogs may have little to no ticking. Ticking on legs may look like small spots or be large enough to look like stripes. We have standard poodle puppies for sale in these parti color combinations: black and white parti, brown and white parti, red and white parti, apricot and white parti, blue and white parti and silver and white parti. Multi-colored poodles include parti poodles, abstracts, brindles and phantom poodles.

Since a mix can take on any combination of traits from their parents, you want to make sure you ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix. Should an English Bulldog Mix take after their Bulldog parent, they will be sweet-natured, affectionate, and playful dogs that love being with their families. English Bulldogs are companion breeds that are known for being sweethearts. As long as they are socialized properly, they tend to be excellent with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although watchful, they are even agreeable to strangers once they have been introduced. If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you should be able to expect the same from an English Bulldog Mix. You still want to talk to the breeder about the other parent as they are likely to introduce their own quirks. Meeting the mother in person can give you an idea of her temperament and the behavior she is modeling for her puppies. Although the breeder should have started some training and socialization, it is your responsibility to continue training and socializing a puppy once you get them home to ensure they grow into a well-rounded, well-behaved dog. Although English Bulldogs adapt to most living situations, they are sensitive to hot and cold, and are particularly sensitive to heat. They also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. This makes them a moderately adaptable dog breed. The other parent breed could introduce some traits that affect adaptability so you do want to ask the breeder about them. A mix could inherit conditions common to neither of their parent breeds, one of them, or even both of them. From the English Bulldog, potential health concerns to be aware of in an English Bulldog Mix include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, Entropion, and Cherry Eye. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to prevent passing issues to puppies, so make sure you are asking about the health history of both of the parents. Although English Bulldogs can be stubborn, they are generally eager to please and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to be a good fit for owners of all experience levels and respond well to consistent training that is focused on positive reward and praise. If the other parent breed is also highly trainable, then you should be able to expect the same from an English Bulldog Mix. The other parent breed could also introduce the potential for an English Bulldog Mix that is more difficult to train. Mixed-breed dogs can inherit a coat that is a carbon copy of one of their parents or they can end up with a coat that is truly a mix of both. Should an English Bulldog Mix end up with a Bulldog coat, they will shed moderately year-round, require brushing a couple of times a week, and the occasional bath. If they have face wrinkles, you will need to make sure they are clean and dry regularly to prevent skin irritation. Cutting nails once or twice a month keeps them from growing too long. Ear checks on a weekly basis with careful ear cleanings as needed helps prevent ear infections. Daily brushing or use of an enzyme toothpaste is ideal dental care for dogs and can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. English Bulldogs tend to be lower-energy breeds that only require daily walks and some playtime to be happy. But, they will be energetic when they play and might be up for more activity if you are. The other parent breed can affect this. If they are a low-energy breed, then you can expect an English Bulldog Mix to be the same. If the other parent breed requires more daily activity, then you will need to be prepared for that potential range in an English Bulldog Mix puppy. Because they may still be a brachycephalic dog breed, they can overheat, so you want to be careful of overexertion. There are many safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs to help your English Bulldog Mix get the exercise they need. Fully-grown English Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother. An English Bulldog generally lives for years. Although the other parent breed could affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span in an English Bulldog Mix. Featured English Bulldog Mix Article. Should an American Bulldog Mix take after their American Bulldog parent, they will be a large and lovable dog that is affectionate to their families. American Bulldogs tend to have a gentle nature, a sweet disposition, and a fun-loving, playful personality and you can expect something similar in an American Bulldog Mix. American Bulldogs are known for being absolute sweethearts and quintessential family dogs. They tend to love children and get along well with other dogs in the household. They also thrive on affection, bond strongly with their owners, and absolutely adore spending time with their families. Since they can be initially wary of strangers and can have a high prey drive, socialization early and often is important. You should be able to expect something similar in an American Bulldog Mix. Talking to the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix and meeting the mother dog can give you a better idea of what temperament to expect in an American Bulldog Mix. The American Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. The other parent breed may affect this for an American Bulldog Mix, but you still want to be prepared for a moderately adaptable dog in case they take after their American Bulldog parent. Apartment living could be an option, but you would need to dedicate a lot of time daily to making sure they get the attention and exercise they need to be happy. A mixed-breed dog can inherit the potential health conditions of one, both, or neither of the parent breeds. From the American Bulldog side, potential health conditions include eye-related issues, thyroid disorders, hip dysplasia, kidney issues, bone cancer, and elbow dysplasia. Knowing more about the other parent breed can give you a better idea of what to be aware of in an American Bulldog Mix. Reputable breeders will screen their stock to avoid passing issues to puppies, so make sure you ask about the genetic and health history of both of the parent breeds. Because they are highly intelligent and eager to please their owners, American Bulldogs are highly trainable dogs that are a good fit for owners of all experience levels. But, the other parent breed could affect the trainability of an American Bulldog Mix, so you still want to ask the breeder about them. An American Bulldog Mix can inherit a coat similar to one parent breed or one that is a blend of both. But, the other parent breed could affect how much grooming your American Bulldog Mix needs. Also, practicing good dental care for dogs can help prevent dental diseases like gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss later in life. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal. American Bulldogs are high-energy dogs that are athletic and strong. They need daily walks plus some playtime and extra activity. The other parent breed could affect how much exercise your American Bulldog Mix needs to be happy and healthy, but you will still want to be prepared to handle a high-energy dog. Fully-grown American Bulldogs tend to stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed could have a big effect on the size of your American Bulldog Mix. By talking to the breeder about the other parent breed and meeting the mother dog, you can get a better idea of what size to expect as your American Bulldog Mix puppy grows. American Bulldogs tend to live for years. Although the other parent breed could affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span in an American Bulldog Mix. Featured American Bulldog Mix Article.

Puppies How to Care For a Newborn German Shepherd Puppy German Shepherd puppies are the cutest pets, but can be very fragile at an earlier stage of life, making it impossible for them to fight and survive alone. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about newborn German shepherd puppy care. However, these little babies are often born blind, deaf, and toothless. Since these pups are so fragile at an earlier stage of life, it is nearly impossible for them to fight and survive alone. Unfortunately, due to lack of care, many German Shepherd puppies easily succumb to unfortunate circumstances. It is essential to know that newborn puppies generally require a lot more care and attention than adult dogs. Here, we will dive deep into the world of newborn German shepherd puppies so you know how to take care of them. Important Things to Know About German Shepherd Puppies Newborn German Shepherds are blind until they are between 8 and 14 days old and deaf until they are 5 to 8 days old. These unique-looking puppies are typically born with dark blue or grey eyes, but their physical features keep changing and evolving as they grow. If the first litter of a German Shepherd has more than four puppies, it can render the mother incapable of providing them ample care. This means that there is a potential risk of the newborns getting sick, dying, or becoming very weak until you intervene. Care for the Pups During their Birth Once your German Shepherd has given birth, you will need to check all the puppies to ensure they are breathing properly. Generally, the mother cuts the umbilical cord and cleans up her puppies by licking them gently. She typically starts with their genitals, moves on to their legs, and then finishes with the rest of their bodies. You can start by using a disinfectant to clean the cords and then rub their bodies with a clean towel until they dry. Adjust the Temperature and Humidity Before delivering, a German Shepherd mother searches for a safe and private space enough for her puppies to be born it. So, as a dog parent, it will be your responsibility to provide your pup with a big enough box to suit her and her puppies. Therefore, adjusting the temperature of the nest is a rather significant part of keeping these pups healthy. Generally, German Shepherd mothers are the primary heat source for babies. However, if, for any reason, the mother cannot be in the box, you must provide the puppies with other heat sources, such as a warm lamp or a heating pad. The best way to maintain ideal humidity levels for the puppies is to install a humidifier or keep the nest in your laundry room. Feed the Puppies A significant part of caring for your newborn German Shepherd puppies is providing them with the right amount of nourishment. The best way to do this is to allow nature to take the wheel. The puppies will be nursed by their mother immediately after the birth, even without the pups unable to see her nipples. A German Shepherd mother typically lactates for two months. However, if the mother is unable to provide her pups with this nourishment, you will have to search for other sources. Take Note of Hygiene Maintaining the hygiene of the puppies and their nest is an integral part of keeping them in good health. However, it is best to maintain a clean environment by disinfecting the nest and replacing the blanks or towels once a day. Additionally, you must only start bathing the puppies after 45 days of their birth. Wrapping Up This article only provides you with the basics of newborn German Shepherd puppy care. 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. They cannot see or hear yet, or regulate their body temperature, and they require a lot of tender care from their mom. The new mom is usually very excited and concerned about each newborn, and sometimes overly enthusiastic about chewing off the umbilical cord, which may later result in an umbilical hernia that will take a little longer to close, but is no danger to the puppy. We record the ribbon color and weight of each puppy so that, when we weigh the pups throughout the next days and weeks, we can make sure that each one is gaining weight. Normal weight for a newborn German Shepherd puppy ranges from g to g 0. We take great care to ensure that our newborn German Shepherd puppies have the best chance for a healthy start. A German Shepherd female can be in active labor for 6 to 18 hours, sometimes even longer if she takes a break while having a large litter, and we of course do not leave her side during this time. I stay up making sure that the whelping box which is always in my office or bedroom is clean and dry after each puppy is born, and that the temperature stays constant 86 - 88 F in the room. We keep the temperature at this level for about 2 weeks, gradually reducing it down to normal F by the end of the third week. Someone is always present with the puppies during the first 5 days. I handle the puppies several times a day, as well as weigh them every other day during this period, to make sure that everyone looks and acts healthy, nurses well, and is gaining weight. I usually buy a dozen fluffy cotton towels, and use two at a time as bedding for the whelping box. I change these towels twice daily at this stage to make sure the puppies are always clean and dry. Starting from day 3, and until day 16, I follow The "Super Dog" Program for our puppies - an early neurological stimulation program described by Dr. Carmen Battaglia. It has numerous benefits later in life for puppies. Often, puppies that were born the smallest overtake the bigger ones. Even at this tender age strong individual differences can be noted among German Shepherd puppies. Also, there is difference in their color and markings, and long-hair German Shepherd puppies can often be identified at this age. The new mom is very attached to her puppies at this age and is very reluctant to leave them even for the shortest time. She spends a lot of time sleeping with the puppies nursing peacefully, and is also very happy to be busy cleaning each puppy several times a day and flipping them around gently with her nose. At about 2 weeks of age German Shepherd puppies actually start looking more like puppies, and not just fat black sausages with feet attached. We use undiluted evaporated goats milk from a can, warmed up to be pleasant to the touch. Most puppies readily accept the bottle, and we consider this to be very important bonding and social time as well. Three weeks of age is my favorite age of all. The puppies now can be recognized as German Shepherd puppies. They are alert, playful, and there is a lot of wrestling, tail-wagging, and even barking going on as they explore their surroundings and interact with each other and their mom, all of which is extremely cute. I will often just sit in the whelping box with them, letting them play with my clothes, climb up on my lap, and generally just enjoying their carefree company. We also provide them with various toys starting at this age, and make sure that they listen to loud music, banging on the door, vacuum cleaner, etc. They weigh around 1. At first, they may not have a lot of success with it, as some of them try to suckle on the meat, but in a few days they master this new type of eating very well. We also continue giving them goats milk, but in a shallow saucer pan now, and with some rice baby cereal added, so that they can practice lapping. At this age, the mom is no longer so keen on constantly staying with her puppies, and only visits them to feed them and for a clean up. We continue changing the bedding twice a day now, knowing very well that in about a week it will become times a day, as the mom will not be able to keep up with her cleaning duties any more. We wash soiled towels with a little bit of bleach and a little bit of perfume-free detergent. Four weeks of age is even more fun as the puppies keep developing, but the amount of cleaning starts to increase in geometrical progression, and it becomes a full time job to keep the puppies well fed and clean. The mom is only visiting now and then at this point, and enjoys spending her time in the office, so that she can hear and see the puppies, but not necessarily be with them. With mom visiting for a few brief feedings each day, we feed them three times a day with the following diet: 1. Cottage cheese 2 tbsp per puppy , mixed with plain yogurt 1 tsp per puppy , evaporated goats milk, rice baby cereal 1 tsp. Raw tripe, or beef liver cooked with all kinds of vegetables At about 5 weeks of age the duty of keeping the whelping box clean becomes nightmarish, and this is a good time to introduce German Shepherd puppies to the outdoors. This is a room that is a part of the house, but has free access to the outside world. This room is equipped with a wooden resting platform so that puppies do not lay on concrete, with a heating lamp above it, and the floor is completely covered with a layer of pine woodchips. The outside area is about 6 x 6 ft and the floor is made of paving stones. There is another wooden laying platform here. This is a very important period when we introduce our German Shepherd puppies to more noises, show them the way in and out of the house, introduce them to the other dogs, play tug-of-war, etc. Also, we introduce raw frozen sardines and "The Honest Kitchen" products to their diet, and will occasionally feed kibble, soaked well in warm water and mixed with green tripe from a can At 3, 5, and 7 weeks of age our German Shepherd puppies get dewormed with a high quality wormer, to be certain that they are free of intestinal parasites. At about 6 weeks of age the puppies get their first combination 5-way vaccine including Parvo and Distemper , and at 7 weeks of age we start welcoming visitors who are interested to come and look at the puppies. Often during weekends we have several groups of visitors of all ages coming to interact with the puppies, which is such a great socialization opportunity for them. Copyright .All rights reserved.

July 19, 1 German shepherds are probably one of the most recognized and loved dog breed in the world. They are very loyal and make perfect best furry friends. These dogs are also one of the more intelligent dog breeds, making them excellent choices for both family pets and working dogs. All of these reasons, German shepherds are one of the most popular breeds. They have a very loyal following, and pure German shepherd are highly coveted. Some owners love their pets so much that they choose to get German shepherd tattoos in honor of their beloved best friend. Like people, German shepherds are individuals, with their own personalities and physical features. Because of this, each German shepherd tattoo is unique. German shepherd lovers usually take a picture of their beloved friend to a tattoo artist, who will come up with a completely original German shepherd tattoos. Black and White German Shepherd Tattoo German shepherd portrait tattoos can capture the soul and personality traits of these beautiful animals. Realistic German Shepherd Tattoo Realistic detail in a German shepherd tattoo makes the artwork simply breathtaking! Image Source 4. German Shepherd Chest Tattoo The chest, particularly on on of the pectoral muscles, is also a great place to put German shepherd tattoos. Image Source 5. Cartoon German Shepherd Tattoo Honor a fun loving dog with a fun and colorful cartoon German shepherd tattoo! German Shepherd Tattoo From a Photo A perfect example of a realistic and detailed German shepherd tattoo from a photo. Patriotic German Shepherd Tattoo An American flag makes a fantastic background for this patriotic German shepherd tattoo! Image Source .Dream Catcher German Shepherd Tattoo Incorporating other elements into German shepherd tattoos, as with this dream catcher tattoo, s a great way to add a little extra meaning and symbolism. Hopefully, these German shepherd tattoos have given you some inspiration to come up with your own German shepherd tattoo design! With crisp lines and bold detailing, these vector graphics are ideal for use in signage, posters, advertising materials, and more. Types of German Shepherd Tattoo Vector Images Available Our collection of German Shepherd Tattoo Vector images includes a variety of designs, ranging from realistic depictions of the breed to stylized versions that incorporate intricate patterns and designs. In addition to static images, we offer a variety of vector graphics that can be resized and adapted to fit a range of projects. These graphics include silhouettes of German Shepherds in various poses, as well as stylized illustrations that make an eye-catching addition to any design. These graphics can be used in everything from social media graphics to company logos and website designs. They are perfect for use in advertising materials, such as flyers and posters, as well as on product packaging and merchandise. If you are looking to add a unique touch to a project, consider incorporating a German Shepherd Tattoo Vector image as part of the design. Whether you're looking to create a cohesive brand identity or simply add a bit of visual interest to a design, these images are an excellent choice. If you're looking for a bold and eye-catching design, opt for a stylized illustration or a graphic featuring bright, bold colors. If you prefer a more realistic depiction of the breed, choose an image that captures all the details of a German Shepherd's distinctive features, such as the pointed ears and alert expression. It's also important to consider the context in which the image will be used. If the image will be printed on a small product label or business card, for example, you may want to choose a simpler illustration with fewer details. A more complex graphic may be better suited for larger-format designs, such as billboards or trade show displays. Get Started with German Shepherd Tattoo Vector Images Today Adding a German Shepherd Tattoo Vector image to your design project is a simple and effective way to create a standout visual element that captures attention and leaves a lasting impression. Browse our collection of high-quality graphics to find the perfect image for your needs, and get started creating today. With our wide selection of images and formats available, you're sure to find the perfect German Shepherd Tattoo Vector image to take your design project to the next level.

How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. Shares German Shepherds are graceful, obedient, and loyal dogs with specific nutritional needs. Following a German Shepherd puppy feeding chart will enable you to track the amount of food your puppy is eating as they grow. There are varieties of foods available in the market and most of them come with guidelines at the back of the packaging showing you how much to feed a German Shepherd puppy. This article will cover different types of diets available and the specific nutritional needs of your German shepherd. It will also help you know what to do to ensure that your GSD gets nutritious and balanced food for every stage of their life. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Chart There are three aspects of this German Shepherd puppy feeding chart, namely the German shepherd feeding amount, feeding frequency, and mealtime lengths. It is important to find out the appropriate feeding amount, frequency, and length for your German shepherd without leaving out one of them. That way, you can accurately find out the best way to feed your dog. Overall, there are four ranges that you need to keep in mind. An active dog may require a bit more than the numbers in this list, and an inactive dog will need a slightly less amount. But this guide can act as a solid benchmark. A puppy will need to eat more because they are growing very quickly. Talk to your vet about how much exactly so you keep them healthy and happy. Make sure your German Shepherd has access to fresh, clean water all day. When you take your dog for a walk make sure to bring along some extra water in a collapsible bowl. If they get tired on the way or it gets very hot, this can save their life. So for example, if your dog is 60lbs they should eat between lbs of food in one day. If you notice your dog is losing weight, add more calories to its meal size. However, there are other considerations on how much to feed a German shepherd puppy per day. You might want to consider avoiding meals right before bedtime. Let them digest their food first before they go to sleep. Understanding German Shepherd Puppy Nutritional Needs All dogs require nutritious, satisfying, and healthy food and every breed have their special diet. For maximum energy and health, there are factors to consider when deciding what to feed your German Shepherd: Size considerations- the AKC breed standard says that a German Shepherd can go to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Females can be around 49 to 71 pounds while Males can be around 66 to 88 pounds. This means that they have a big appetite hence it is good to find quality food for them. They grow pretty fast hence they need specific nutrients for specific stages. Activity level- German shepherds are muscular, active, and agile which contributes to higher caloric needs to be complemented by feeding them a high-quality diet. Health consideration- GSDs are prone to many diseases hence a healthy diet will prevent problems. For example, arthritis that is caused by hip and elbow dysplasia can be mitigated through an excellent diet. Ensure that your GSD diet contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. How long does it take for your dog to be full? Is your dog still hungry after eating his portion? German shepherds normally take anywhere from 10 minutes to 15 minutes to finish the meal, given that you followed the proper feeding guidelines properly. If your dog shows signs of slow eating, we recommend sending them to your vet. If you think your dog is already full before finishing his portion, there is no problem. However, if your dog is still hungry after finishing the meal, consider sending him to your vet. This is because this can be a sign of a serious health issue involving their digestive system. They encourage the puppy to chew hence preventing periodontal diseases or tartar. Kibble is less expensive to buy and can stay fresh for longer. See also German Shepherd Gestation Period And Pregnancy Wet food is also essential for puppies because they allow puppies to feel fuller with less food. If your GSD need to shed a few pounds, wet food is a good way to reduce their caloric intake. Wet food is easier to digest, hence they are good for German shepherds with sensitive stomachs. Wet food is appetizing and keeps the puppy hydrated. You need to understand why your puppy cannot eat because it will help you determine the way to deal with the issue. There is no need to worry if the puppy lost appetite shortly and goes back to normal eating without any sign of illness. If the puppy loses appetite and takes a few days without improvement, take your puppy to the vet to find the problem because your dog might be sick. If the vet finds that the puppy is sick, they may suggest a special diet that will boost their immunity and give them extra nutrients to better their recovery. The puppy may have stopped eating because of behavioral issues; therefore, you may need to feed them same time to get a routine. Treats and human food that is given to the puppy may need to be reduced and also you can try different kinds of food. The German shepherd is a medium dog breed according to the AKC. Therefore, free-feeding is not a good idea. For the German shepherds, feeding schedules work better. If the puppies are free-fed the puppy may eat the leftover at any time even when they are not hungry. Sticking to a feeding routine help the puppy to stay healthy and prevent obesity. When you have a schedule, managing their weight and house training will improve. The puppy usually relieves themselves around 15 minutes after eating or drinking, therefore, when they feed at the same time every day and are taken outside after a while, accidents will be minimized. A raw diet is good for German shepherds. A raw diet help improves vitality and energy. The puppy gets healthy white teeth with an increased lifespan and reduced shedding as well as a stronger immune system. Raw meat is a great source of protein and an optimal diet. It is like keto to humans because it allows the puppy to reach their total capacity and good health. Dogs are naturally carnivorous, hence raw diet aligns with their natural needs. However, you should speak to your vet before putting your puppy on a raw food diet. The majority of commercially available kibble food is balanced and complete, and of high quality for your German shepherd puppy. Human supplements often contain harmful substances to animals and are unregulated or minimally effective. Therefore, never give human supplements to your German shepherd puppy. But they can eat small amounts of cooked chicken or turkey, plain cooked sweet potatoes or carrots, plain yogurt, and small amounts of fruits like apples or bananas without getting sick. Talk to a vet for advice on how to feed your German Shepherd puppy a healthy and balanced diet. These include chocolate, fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chives, avocado, onions, nuts, grapes and raisins, garlic, raw or undercooked meat, and bones. These foods can cause a wide range of health problems, from stomachaches to more serious problems like pancreatitis or kidney failure. Some foods that people eat may have a lot of sodium or sugar, which can also be bad for dogs. How much food to give an older German Shepherd will depend on their needs and how much they move around. But as dogs get older, they tend to slow down and may need less food to stay at a healthy weight. As a general rule, an older German Shepherd needs about 2 to 3 cups of food per day, which should be divided between two meals. A German Shepherd that is getting older should eat high-quality senior dog food that is made for their age and size. Senior dogs might also benefit from getting smaller meals more often. If your German Shepherd puppy seems to always be hungry, you should look at what they eat and how often they eat. Make sure they eat enough for their age, weight, and level of activity. Puppies grow quickly and need more calories than adult dogs, so it is possible that they are not getting enough food. Also, make sure you feed them high-quality puppy food that is right for their age and size. If you are worried about how hungry they are or how much they weigh, you should talk to a vet to rule out any health problems and make a plan for feeding them. The amount of dry food you should feed your German Shepherd will depend on several factors, including their age, weight, and activity level. Puppies: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Adult dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Active dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Senior dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. If the dog is obviously overweight or underweight, adjust accordingly. If you can feel most of the ribs without squeezing your fingers in between them — try 1 cup per day. This is a decent starting point for a growing large breed puppy that needs the extra calories to grow big and strong. If you can feel most of the ribs AND see its waist — try 3 cups per day. This is perfect for an adult German Shepherd which needs extra calories due to being very active. With this amount, it will be able to maintain its weight, but not gain any extra fat. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 3. This is a good amount for a very active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain a healthy weight. This should be sufficient for an adult German Shepherd which is quite active. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 5 cups per day. This is a good amount for an extremely active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain lean muscle mass. For example, when my dog was a puppy, he would feel all ribs and see his waist when eating 2 cups of food per day. However, as he got older and larger, I had to increase the amount — even though I could still feel most of the ribs! He maintained around .Although there are lots of opinions on how much food your shepherds needs, these guidelines work for me and my German Shepherds. Everyone is different though, so you will have to adjust accordingly if necessary — this guide should help you until you find the ideal amount. If your dog is a very active one it may need more food depending on its activity level. Always be sure to give plenty of water since dry kibble can dehydrate the animal over time. However, this amount will vary depending on the size, age, and activity level of your dog. Puppies and young dogs, for example, generally need more water than adult German Shepherds. And working dogs or those who exercise frequently may require even more. This is because they can easily hydrate themselves if given free access to water. However, you still need to remember some things. For example, take note that your dog will need to drink 6 ounces of water per day for every 3. Depending on the temperature and activeness, this amount can increase. Lastly, make sure you take extra care in providing water access to your German shepherd. The most preferable way is to fill a bowl with a moderate amount of water, not too much. The feeding amount, frequency, length, and water requirements can always be changed. If you have no time to visit your vet, the following topic may help you. How Much Should A 1-year-old German Shepherd Eat A 1-year-old German Shepherd should eat about two and a half to three cups of food each day, broken up into two or three meals. Pointers for Feeding German Shepherds Improper feeding practices can lead to serious health problems for German shepherds. An owner is responsible for taking into consideration the age and weight of a German shepherd before feeding them. When feeding a german shepherd puppy that is four to six months old, you must give them two meals a day that comprises around eight ounces and five ounces. When feeding a German shepherd puppy that is between seven and twelve months old, the meal amounts should be increased to ten ounces for each meal. This amount should be split into three smaller meals. This is regardless of whether they are active or not. Yep, German shepherds can gain weight regardless of whether they exercise or not. If you think your dog is gaining too much weight, you can split their daily calories into four or five smaller meals. Some people prefer using dry dog food, while others would choose canned dog food. Whatever you choose for your German shepherd is usually okay, but canned food tends to contain more moisture than dry food which may lead to bladder stones in certain dogs. However, when it comes to the amount of dog food you feed your German shepherd, canned food leads to more obesity than dry food. If your German shepherds are over five years old, you must give them an extra meal. This additional meal should comprise around four ounces of food so they can easily digest it during their older age. When feeding a German shepherd puppy, you must know how to correctly measure their food amount. Be accurate when following the proper measurements; otherwise, it could lead to your dog gaining too much weight. Use measuring cups that are specifically made for dry food. If you use any other type of measuring device, it might lead to your dog eating too much or too little food. You must not feed your German shepherd until they are full, but allow them to eat until they are slightly satiated. Do not serve unlimited food; give them about two to three cups of food per day. If you are unsure whether or not your German shepherd is obese, check its waistline. If they have a thick waist and their stomach looks like a sphere, then that is a clear sign that your German shepherd is obese. Never let them finish their meal if they are still hungry; otherwise, you will encourage them to gorge on their food. Your German shepherd must always have access to fresh clean water, so you should ensure they can drink it whenever necessary. Feeding Guidelines by Age Before proceeding with the following points, remember that age is not the only determining factor in a German shepherd feeding chart. Make sure to consider all the content in this blog post as well. It is recommended that you slowly let them adapt first. This can be their regular food from now on. This includes fruits, bones, and more. You should also avoid giving them your leftovers. However, they will need time to adapt. You should also consider feeding your German shepherd foods that can be gnawed and chewed. This is so they can develop their jaws, teeth, and gums. This will result in less feeding amount and frequency. Feeding Guidelines by Weight German shepherds can be of different weight ranges. An average weighted German shepherd 35 kilograms will then need calories per day. This only applies to German shepherds that do not exercise or are inactive. Active German Shepherds: In the case of active German shepherds that exercise regularly, every 1 kilogram equals 55 calories per day. So an average weighted German shepherd will require calories per day to be able to function properly. Take note, however, that this calculation may be affected if the German shepherd has a health disorder concerned with metabolism or digestion. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Guidelines Our last topic involves the difference between a puppy and an adult. The following are some of the facts that recent studies have proven: Puppies have higher energy levels than adults. This means they need to eat more than adult German shepherds. German shepherds will need higher protein and fat content at an early age. The amount of fat and protein will decrease as they grow older. Puppies cannot tolerate too many nutrients. Ingesting extra minerals and vitamins may lead to serious health disorders. Meanwhile, adults are only risking being overweight when taking in more than intended. German Shepherds usually have a good appetite and can eat a lot, especially when they are young and growing. But their food intake should be balanced and right for their age, weight, and level of activity to keep them from getting too much food and getting fat. As they age, they should usually eat less quickly. Most of the time, bones that have been cooked and ground up completely may be safe to eat. Instead, give them dog-made chew toys or treats. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Since German Shepherds consume meat, it follows that they must consume a significant amount of animal protein in order to get all of the necessary nutrients. Although while it is feasible to offer a dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, owners of German Shepherds should avoid doing so since it increases the likelihood that their dogs will not get all of the nutrients that they need. After talking about the feeding amount, frequency, and lengths of a German shepherd, you can now easily plan how much, how many times, and how long you feed your dog. You even learned how to hydrate your German shepherd the proper way. Lastly, we talked about the difference between a puppy and an adult in terms of feeding. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Although it may seem obvious, doing this can cause your dog a lot of trouble and is a simple error to make. A German shepherd is a medium- to large-breed dog, which puts him at a higher risk for several health issues, the most well-known of which are issues with the bones and the hips. Joint illnesses are more likely to develop in them as a result of genetics, and too much rapid development is another factor that might exacerbate these issues. Because of this, even though German shepherds require the same essential nutrients as other dog breeds, including protein, fat, carbohydrates, and other vitamins and minerals, you should exercise caution when feeding your dog nutrient-rich dog foods because they can encourage dangerously rapid growth. According to the German shepherd feeding chart, it is accepted that adult dogs need up to calories per day. Depending on how big and active the dog is, anything between and is considered suitable. The amount of calories a dog consumes is often determined by their age, present health, and the amount of exercise they receive. However, even in their later years, energetic dogs will need up to calories each day. How about a German Shepherd puppy, though? What is a German Shepherd feeding chart for a puppy? Actually, puppies consume twice as many calories per pound of body weight. This indicates that a German Shepherd puppy that is 8 weeks old may consume twice as much food as an adult. Puppies need to consume twice as much food as adults do to sustain their growth and development. A young German Shepherd puppy needs at least 80—90 calories per pound of body weight to grow and thrive. Regularly weigh your puppy, assess their general health, and modify their calorie intake to assist their growth. Even more active than working adult dogs are young shepherds. Keep in mind that calories differ significantly across manufacturers and brands. Always read the nutritional information and feeding instructions on the food box before feeding it to your pet. The German Shepherd feeding chart is simple in the first few weeks; up until the puppies lose all of their puppy teeth , their mother serves as their primary feeding source. Puppies who are one month old do not yet have teeth that are strong enough to eat kibble, so it is important to soften their diet as much as possible. Two-Month-Old German Shepherd Puppies start exploring their environment as soon as they reach the one-month mark. Additionally, a German Shepherd puppy should be at least eight weeks old if you plan to adopt one. Purchase the same puppy food the breeder recommended, at least for the first several weeks as they adjust to their new surroundings. As the pups approach their first birthday, their diet will require fewer calories, so you may cut down on the number of meals by two or three, if you believe it will be better for your pet. The majority of dog owners believe that giving their puppies fewer meals throughout the day is better for them since they get the same amount of calories and are less likely to feel hungry at specific times of the day. Even though during this period your dog should still be eating puppy food, you might want to consider obtaining adult dog food. Some owners use treats and training rewards to gradually introduce adult food to their pets, which is just enough to acclimate them to its unique flavor and texture. On the other hand, some dog owners choose to gradually phase out puppy food by combining kibble for adult dogs with it in varying quantities. You must obviously speak with your veterinarian before making any changes to the diet your German Shepherd consumes. Only your veterinarian can tell you when your dog has reached adulthood and when switching to adult food is safe. They must thus be provided with a healthy diet, even if they are raised as household pets. These puppies really like being active, and they enjoy playing in dog parks and other open spaces as well as training. In addition to the other nutrients, the quantities of calcium, protein, and phosphorus in adult dog food will be different from those in puppy food, according to the German Shepherd feeding chart. Bottom Line We must be certain of how much and when to feed our pets as responsible pet owners. German Shepherds require special consideration when designing their diets since they are active canines with voracious appetites. They adapt well to a variety of diets, including dry, wet, raw, and homemade. Giving them too many presents or too many free meals might seriously harm their health. We looked at the German shepherd feeding chart above. For your pup to develop properly, you must be aware of which foods are good for them and which ones they should avoid. As a travel enthusiast and animal lover, she hopes to inspire others to discover and cherish the beauty and importance of the natural world. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels. The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to German Shepherd breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. Before the four month mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps: Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed your German Shepherd puppy as they get older. With this rapid growth can come some risks. German Shepherds are susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia, that can start in puppyhood. They will be very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen between 12 and 24 months of age. This is because, being a larger breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. Remember that the more active the pup, the more food they require. While following feeding guidelines is important to avoid over and underfeeding, you can adjust the amounts of food you provide to your dog based on level of activity. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask your vet for guidance. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your German Shepherd puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. For puppies, this amount will often be two of three times higher, as they are more active and growing quickly. German Shepherd puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, German Shepherd puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. However, they can also be at risk of gastric dilatation or volvulus, or GDV. Certain dog breeds can be more susceptible to GDV; particularly deep chested breeds including German Shepherds. GDV can occur when a dog bloats a few hours after eating a meal. Though the exact causes of GDV are not known, grains and cereals are suspected to be contributors. The amount of food you give your German Shepherd is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult German Shepherds, between 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, and 1, per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your German Shepherd based on how calorically dense their food is. German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs who are at risk of GDV may benefit from exercise after eating, to aid with digestion. You should also try to give your German Shepherd a high quality food that is specially designed for larger or working breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. German Shepherds can be particularly susceptible to skin disease or allergies, including canine atopic dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, forms of contact dermatitis, or scabies. If your dog develops a skin issue, it is often a sign that they may be suffering from a form of food sensitivity. If you are unsure about what you should feed your German Shepherd, you should always consult your vet as they will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any allergies or chronic health issues: creating a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Part of figuring out what you should feed your German Shepherd includes deciding between wet, dry, or a raw food diet. Wet food for German Shepherds is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. A raw diet can be a good option for your German Shepherd as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your German Shepherd, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. The amount of food you feed your dog should be determined by their activity levels, age, weight, breed, and size. Any meals prepared for your dog need to contain the right balance of nutrients. You should also be extra careful not to introduce your dog to foods that are harmful to their health. While we might enjoy the taste of nuts, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and onions, these can be toxic for dogs and can cause serious illness and even death. German Shepherds in particular need plenty of exercise as they are a large working breed with a lot of energy. No matter how old your German Shepherd is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.

One of their signature traits is a black mask on the face. Their ears are triangular, flat, and lay close to the head. German Shepherds, on the other hand, have ears that point up to the sky. While not as fluffy as a Leo, GSDs also have a double coat that needs regular grooming. When imagining the German Shepherd, most of us will see a black and tan dog. However, GSDs actually come in 11 different colors. Based on these two breeds, we know that a Leonberger cross German Shepherd will have a double coat. However, color, ear shape, and fluffiness are all up to chance. If the coat takes after the Leo parent, more frequent brushing may be necessary. Teeth should be brushed often and nails trimmed as needed. Leonberger x German Shepherd Temperament and Behavior Leonbergers are often considered gentle giants. They are friendly, patient companions who are eager to please. This also means they are good with kids. However, being spirited and energetic, a Leonberger German Shepherd could easily knock children over when excited. Leonbergers often make good watchdogs, as they will alert you to anything they deem suspicious. However, German Shepherds can sometimes be overprotective. Though loyal and companionable with their family, GSDs may be aloof or even nervous with strangers. Some studies have found German Shepherds to be more aggressive than other dogs. Along with this, they were one of the highest offenders of dog bites in children. A small breed dog may bite more often than a GSD, but those bites are rarely reported. Not all GSDs are aggressive. A bored dog is too often a destructive dog. Playing fetch is great exercise. While some dogs naturally love the game, others can be taught to enjoy it. Both physical and mental enrichment are important for this mixed breed. Mental enrichment can be achieved through training. Because GSDs tend to bond more closely with those who train them. Training during puppyhood should be taken seriously, as a fully grown Leonberger German Shepherd mix is a strong dog. With positive reinforcement, a puppy can grow into a gentle, well-mannered adult. Socialization is also vital. Proper socialization can greatly reduce the likelihood of fearful and aggressive behaviors. Considering reports of aggression in GSDs, a socialization routine with all different types of stimuli is a must. You should start socializing your puppy right away, as the most crucial period for socialization is between 5 and 12 weeks. Both of these dogs can be friendly but personalities differ, so you never know. The German Shepherd is known for being intelligent, curious, and alert. All dogs need proper socialization and that will be a big factor in how they interact with others. What does this mixed breed look and act like? Is it more like the German Shepherd Dog or the Leonberger? Those are the questions we will try and answer below. Continue reading below to see pictures, videos, and learn more about the beautiful German Shepherd Dog Leonberger Mix. While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue, we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their German Shepherd Dog Leonberger Mix puppy. If you are interested in helping animal rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer donates to help feed shelter animals. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. If you have a few minutes, please sign our petition to stop puppy mills. Von Stephanitz had in his mind what a good working dog should be and a few generations of breeding fulfilled what Hektor envisioned. Horand von Grafrath is known to be the first German Shepherd Dog. Horand von Grafrath was bred to other similar styled dogs that were believed to have the same traits as what Von Stephanitz was looking for. His most successful offspring was Hektor von Schwaben. Von Stephanitz is widely credited for being the founder of this incredible breed. Von Stephanitz had intended for his breed to work as herding dogs, however, as Germany became more and more industrialized he saw the need to make it working dog. He convinced the German government to use the breed. The breed initially became popular in World War 1. Many American and allied servicemen grew attached to the breed during the war and brought them back to the states after the war was over. The Allied troops fell in love with the breed but not with the fact that it had German roots. It became common for police departments and those looking for true working dogs to import their dogs from Germany because the American dogs had such bad health problems. Leonbergers are loving, loyal and dedicated companions, but due to their size not everyone wants to take home a pound plus pet. For those that do, they will enjoy a rambunctious puppy until they are a harder working adults who loves to spend time with each member of the family. Leonbergers are not aggressive animals and are proud, strong and powerful. Originally the Leonberger were kept as farm dogs. They pulled carts and did other tasks as needed. In the 20th Century, they became water rescue dogs, and they still continue to live in that role today. In the s a dog breeder named Heinrich Essig claims to have created the Leonberger by crossing a male dog that would later create the Saint Bernard breed along with a female Landseer Newfoundland. Later down the line, Essig claims to have added a Pyrenean Mountain dog to the mix, which created the large dog with long white coats. This may just be a story since the claim is still disputed. The reason for this is due to a description that claims animals the looked like Leonbergers were owned by Austrian Prince Franz Metternich, of Wolfberg in .The more modern look of a Leonberger, which includes darker coats and black masks, came later in the 20th century. This happened when other breeds, such as the Newfoundland, were reintroduced to the genetic pool. The reintroduction was due to the loss of Leonbergers during World War I, and even though the breed started to thrive again, it was lost once more during World War II. Leonbergers were used to pull ammunition carts during these wars.

Though they may get into trouble at times, Pugs tend to be good-natured dogs. Pugs are usually not aggressive dogs. However, if your Pug is not properly socialized and trained, they can easily develop aggressive tendencies such as nipping, barking or growling due to their headstrong and stubborn temperaments. According to Hills Pet , Pugs are cheerful, laid back dogs and we tend agree with them. But despite their playful attitude, they can be serious dogs. My pug sun bathes outside for hours every day. Pug owner As easy-going as these dogs are, expect them to lounge around and nap for many hours throughout the day. In fact, Pugs are infamously known for their mischievous side. In addition, Pugs can be a little headstrong at times with the occasional stubborn streak. If you have already have a dog, cat or other animal, we have good news for you! Pugs get along great with other dogs. These dogs are all about devotion to the pack. However, there is a caveat. Without proper socialization, Pugs may be aggressive towards the unfamiliar. My pug hates other dogs but tolerates and protects her little Siberian Husky sister only. This may mean meeting on neutral grounds first, such as a dog park or even in the front yard. One thing to keep in mind is that you should never introduce the puppy to your dog while holding the pup in your arms. This can make them feel vulnerable. Instead, let them do their thing, such as sniffing, licking or whatever they decide to do to get to know each other. Can Pugs be Aggressive Towards Humans? Like with other animals, Pugs are not usually aggressive towards other people, including seniors and kids. However, some Pugs do show aggression towards kids by nipping their feet, lunging towards them or just barking at them. Even so, these behaviors are rarely malicious. But it really depends on how they were raised and socialized as a puppy. Planes flying overhead. Neighbors taking out the trash. As a result, there can be a lot of scary things in this world, at least to them. Although this may sound silly, it happens more often than you think. Ever hear of the small dog syndrome? Everyone else is a stranger and potentially a threat. Otis our pug got used to the baby and is now super protective. The possessive nature is not unique to Pugs. Many dogs of all kinds can develop this type of behavior. However, there are many other potential reasons why your dog may be acting out. Pugs are no exception. These signs can be snapping, growling or outright biting. Whether from a medical condition or not, pain can also elicit this type of unnatural behavior from your Pug. Many times the pain comes from injuries while playing too hard, as Pugs tend to do. Other times, pain or discomfort can come from tumors, arthritis, fractures or whatever internal injuries. Never give your Pug medication without the consent of your vet. A mistake most owners make is trying to take matters into their own hands. Please, leave it to the professionals. Not only can it happen with other dogs, but also with humans. Dogs that suffer from this internal desire to become the alpha of the pack can show aggression in the form of growling, biting, snapping and lunging. Of course, not all Pugs even want to be the alpha of the pack. In my 11 years of raising my pug with my other dogs, I have never had this problem with my pug. For example, this Pug owner describes her dominant Pug, saying: My pug thinks she is the alpha. She pulls pillows off the couch and uses them as her toys. She constantly stands at my top of the couch and looks out the window and barks. An owner told me that her female dog will hump her leg and toys all the time. This is a clear sign of a dog establishing dominance over the owner. The best way to combat this is for you to establish yourself as the clear-cut leader of the pack. There should be no struggle for the alpha spot. Food Aggression in Pugs Food aggression can vary quite a bit among individual dogs within a breed. And according to the AKC, Pugs are one of the 10 dog breeds that love to eat the most. But food aggression has three tiers to it: The dog can just growl, which is the first tier. The next level would be the dog snapping at a person or animal when they get too close. Of course, the final tier is biting. Fortunately, there are ways to deal with this. Still, she was protective of the snacks. Socializing the Pug One of, if not, the most important things you can do is to socialize your Pug. The best window of learning for a puppy starts around week 3 and closes sometime between week 16 and .Fortunately, there are many options for socializing a dog. The best and my recommended option is the dog park. If you have time, take your Pug to the dog park after work where there will be plenty of kids, adults and dogs. Dog parks are really the perfect place to socialize a dog. The Pug will be able to interact with all different breeds of dogs and the humans that take care of them! Having an obedient Pug means that you may be able to control aggressive behaviors better. Because Pugs are food-driven dogs, it can help a lot with obedience training since you already know what their main motivator is. However, I want to warn that Pugs are prone to obesity, especially with their lazy and relaxed temperaments. Do you own an aggressive Pug? What have you done that works? Let us know in the comments section below! Posts you may like:. In fact, their quirkiness and pug behavior only adds to their appeal. Pug behavior can also be occasionally confusing and lead to trouble. Pugs are a big dog in a small dog body, which means they can be a little too brave when they run up to hump a German Shepherd at the dog park. They can also be a bit stubborn and seem to have selective hearing. Being food-motivated works to their advantage: they will do anything for treats and positive reinforcement. You can trust that we maintain strict editorial integrity in our writing and assessments; however, we receive compensation when you click on links to products from our partners and get approved. Read our full disclosure. Intact animals are definitely more likely to mount others, so spaying or neutering is the best prevention. If your puppy humps his or her littermates, simply redirect the behavior quietly and move on. Some rescue pugs, who may have remained intact for longer OR simply discovered the joy of humping, struggle with this behavior. This is especially true when they feel insecure like when company or a new dog comes to visit. Offer them an exciting alternative like a treat or a chew toy instead. Lastly, when your pug is in a new situation or meeting a new friend, keep them on a leash so you remain in control of their behavior yes, even in the house. You want me to twirl like a ballerina for a cookie? Here I go! Each problem can be addressed separately. Dog-proof your house to prevent your pug from getting into foods that could make them ill. This includes, storing foods like candy and chocolate in higher cupboards and always closing and latching pantry and closet doors. Install baby-proof latches on your cupboards if your pug is a Houdini-type. Weigh down your trash bin with a brick or rock in the bottom and keep it covered or enclosed. Keep your litter box clean and scooped we recommend the litter-robot and pick up the house. Never leave out leftover food or garbage. Pugs will find a way. When pugs go out, keep them on a leash always. If they see a delicious sidewalk sandwich or a poo snack keeping them on a leash will help you pull them away and redirect. That good pug behavior deserves a treat! Keep your own yard picked up, so pugs can avoid temptation. Preventing obesity in pugs is an important part of keeping your pug healthy. Many concerns such as joint issues, diabetes and breathing problems can be prevented simply by keeping your pug at a healthy weight. To slow your pug down, we suggest a slow feeder dog bowl. This gives your pug a chance to actually taste her food before she snarfs it down. Feed your pug two or three small meals per day. A pug left to her own devices can polish off a bowl of kibble in three seconds flat. Help her control her portions. Plus, your food may contain ingredients that could make your pug ill like avocado or chocolate. Carrots, peas and pumpkin make great healthy snackies, or try small bites of chicken, liver or trainer treats. In fact, many pugs can lick you for hours.Then wipe it with a little vinegar or lemon juice which can deter the constant licking. If they start licking, make a noise to startle them, and then redirect the behavior to a more appropriate licking toy. The first step is to stop allowing it to happen. Licking is a way that pugs find comfort. Keep harmony in your grumble by spending plenty of one-on-one time with each individual pug. Keep playtime light and fun. Help everyone get plenty of exercise and allow breaks and downtime where the whole pack can get some moments alone to de-stress. Alleviate the insecurity by giving your pug privacy during mealtimes. For new human or non-canine family members, simply be sure your pug is receiving plenty of attention and positive reinforcement whenever the new friend is around. Allow them to retreat to their crate or room if they need some alone time especially with older pugs and give them plenty of space. Always encourage children to be very gentle with pugs and never tease them with food or toys. Pugs are extremely gentle, but they will nip in very rare occasions, especially if they feel unsafe. Remember they are small and can get hurt or frightened. In order to train your pug, you have to build their trust. Practice it and reward this command over and over. You can practice recall with your pug on a long leash or in a fenced yard, but first begin in the house. Stand about 20 feet away from your pug with a high value treat like hotdogs or cheese. Use the command, reward your pug when she comes running. Stand farther away, repeat. Give the command, reward, repeat. Try this command under many different distractions and scenarios. Move it to the yard. Then practice on a long leash or at the park. Reward your pug every single time. As for the many other times when your pug seems not to hear you such as when you call their name, or ask them to come --you can practice similarly, using different command along with a clicker and a treat. Eventually wean your pug off the treats giving them every third or fourth response. Practice your commands regularly. But pugs do bark. Some pugs react to passersby at the window, squirrels on the bird feeder or other dogs on TV. This takes practice and you may feel like a human Pez dispenser for a while but eventually your pug will learn that dogs on TV mean treats in their tummy! Similarly, when your pug reacts to something outside, the doorbell or another noise with a barking frenzy, redirect their attention back to you. Then give them a treat. Practice the trigger behavior and reinforce the desired reaction over and over. Being Stubborn Stubborn? Even though pugs are occasionally stubborn, they are quite trainable and will rise to the occasion. Pugs are very smart, easily motivated by food and praise and love to make you happy. If your pug can channel their energy into positive behaviors, they just may surprise you with their transformation. Many pugs make excellent therapy dogs and you could even start your pug as a volunteer! Almost all dogs benefit from the socialization and regime provided by a positive training class. Even experienced owners can brush up on their skills and connect with their pug one-on-one. Giving your pug the gift of proper training will help strengthen your relationship, boost your communication and lead to many happy years to come! Clingy behavior Common Pug Behavior Problems Pugs are a popular and endearing little dog breed, but they have several behavioral concerns, such as begging, housetraining troubles, jumping on humans, separation anxiety, excessive barking, destructive chewing, biting, and nipping. Here are some of the most common pug behavior problems to be aware of, along with some helpful solutions: 1. Even though begging is a terrible habit, many pug owners encourage their dogs by feeding them while they eat. Side effects include weight gain, gastrointestinal issues, and even recurrent diarrhea. The most straightforward method to avoid this irritating habit is to never promote it in the first place. Twist and turn away if your pug tries to jump on you while begging. Teach your pug to do other things than begging for food at the table. Put your pug in his room or space while you eat. Use positive reinforcement to teach your pug that begging is associated with bad behavior. Ignore and redirect a begging pug. Separation anxiety Pug separation anxiety is a behavior problem that arises when a pug is left alone for an extended period of time without supervision. If left untreated, it can lead to biting, excessive barking, and hostility. Biting, nipping, barking, self-isolation, destructive chewing, and other behaviors are all signs of separation anxiety in pugs. Separation anxiety can occur when a pug is left alone at home, which can be alleviated by having a companion or adopting good crate training. How to fix separation anxiety in pugs Make an anti-anxiety product or pharmaceutical buy approved by your veterinarian. To keep the puppy engaged, make sure there are plenty of soft and interesting toys. Give yourself plenty of time to rest, relax, and engage in physical activity. Start your dog on a fresh, suitable crate training program. Make an appointment for your pet to see a behaviorist. Teach them to leave you alone at home and to maintain a safe space between you and them. Exercise your pug before leaving to burn off excessive energy. Provide a window view of the outside world. Provide a calming and stress-free spot with calming music. Difficulties in house-training Housetraining is the process of educating a dog to defecate outside or in a specific spot within the house, rather than following its natural instinct of pooping everywhere. Housebreaking a pug is generally tough because of their dominating personality. Expect to practice for two to three months in sessions. Housebreaking is one of the most typical issues with pug behavior. When you get a pug, try to focus on house training from the start. Provide your pug with a variety of places to discharge himself during the house-training process. Take your Pug to the toilet periodically before bedtime throughout the housetraining process. You should start potty training your pug the day he comes at your place. If your pug commits a mistake, do not scream or strike him. Feed your pug at the same time and in the same manner throughout the housetraining procedure. During and after the housetraining procedure, make the toilet as accessible as feasible. Unnecessary barking at inconvenient times Since they were developed to be human companions, pugs are a naturally non-aggressive little dog breed that has never been known to harm other dogs or children. Poor socialization, fear, anxiety, possessive behavior, and a lack of training or behavioral direction on the part of the owner can all contribute to aggression in pugs. Pugs can bark excessively, and properly socializing your pug as soon as possible is one of the greatest ways to prevent excessive barking. Tips Teach your pug a new behavior to get him to stop barking. Choose a location that can be seen from the front door. This will keep them active and quiet as they wait to be welcomed. Bring a treat and a buddy to the door, but only open it when your dog is calm. Teach your pug how to stop barking excessively at any point. Learn ways to keep your pug occupied. Teach your pug to concentrate. Play aggression Nipping or biting when playing is one of the most well-known sorts of pug behavior disorders. Growling, snarling, flashing fangs, lunging, and biting are all ways Pugs display their play aggressiveness. Pug play aggressiveness develops over time and, if left unchecked, may lead to serious problems with both your children and your dog. How to fix pug play aggression Begin by gently playing with your pug. Learn how to teach your Pug to control his or her excitement. Make plans to play with other puppies as well as well-behaved adult dogs who can teach your puppy good manners. When your pug engages in enjoyable play, praise him or her. Include a toy in the equation, and distract your pug when a line is passed to prevent him from continuing to play. Teach tactics and expectations for compliance. Positive reinforcement is the only way to progress. Dominance issues Pugs are infamous for being demanding and forgetting their size, which may be a severe problem if you have children in the house. Pug wants to take the lead while you follow, which may lead to a variety of behavior issues that, if not addressed, can result in unnecessary hostility. Establish yourself as the pack leader as early as possible. Set rules, limitations, and boundaries for your Pug as early as possible. Insist on proper conduct. Use positive energy when communicating. Find out how to act like an alpha dude. When it comes to disciplining inappropriate behavior, be consistent and fair. When it comes to regulations, be consistent and accurate. Teach your pug the concepts of obedience. Learn how to control and regulate how long your pug spends eating. Give your pug a job to perform at all times. Behavior that is submissive should be praised. Jumping on people Pugs are notorious for leaping and jumping on their owners in an attempt to greet you and convey their joy at your return. While leaping is entertaining, it is not always appropriate, and this may quickly become a significant problem. Pugs are known for jumping up and down to greet their owners and anybody else that enters the house. Teaching your pug to manage their enthusiasm is one of the basic tactics you may use to prevent them from leaping on you or another person. How to stop your pug from jumping on people: When your pug is on a leash, have someone approach him. Before the individual approaches your pug, toss a few treats on the floor. Allow your pug to touch and greet you while he or she is eating from the floor. Before the person finishes eating, ask them to move away from your pug. Repeat the processes above after a few repetitions, but this time extend the welcome by putting treats on the floor throughout. Once all four feet are on the ground, let your pug to meet the person before placing the first reward on the ground. As your pug learns the rules, you may gradually reduce the amount of treats you give him until the greeting is the only thing he gets. Provide lots of toys and chews to keep your dog active and encourage appropriate chewing. How to control destructive chewing in pugs: Invest in lots of chewing toys. Spray your furniture. Provide more exercise for your pug. Puppy proofing your home. Clingy behavior While some people find their pugs following them around the house looking for love irritating, others find it humorous. Pugs are no exception when it comes to begging for attention by barking, biting, or nipping. Pugs are lovely companion dogs that spend their days with their owners; yet, if they are not properly regulated, they may become a serious problem. How to control pug clingy behavior: Time should be spent on obedience training. Provide a variety of fun and interactive toys. Provide tasks that stimulate the mind, such as puzzles. Establish a daily schedule and stick to it. Make sure you have a set of rules in place. There you have the most common pug behavior problems and how to fix them. Post navigation. Pug Dog Behavior Overview Every dog is an individual and will have his or her own quirks and character traits. With that said, each breed does have certain personality traits that while not found in every dog, are general behaviors that one can expect. And when it comes to lovable behaviors and even temperament, the Pug places high on the list. This section will discuss what you can expect with the Pug dog and tips for owners to deal with some of the more, well, let's just say, "interesting" aspects of this breed. Most owners will agree that the Pug knows what he wants.And he'll use a few different techniques to see if his owner will cave in. For the right owner, this is not necessarily a bad thing.In many cases, what the dog wants is attention. Can who can blame him! This is not an independent breed. Zeke Photo courtesy of owner Virginia Vaughn Zeke Photo courtesy of owner Virginia Vaughn Throughout generations, the Pug was bred to be a very valued companion and for quite a while this breed was kept by royalty. Pugs were even dressed up in clothing mostly ruffled shirts and pantaloons to sit at the front of horse-drawn carriages. He was put on display and revered. Statues were built and artists spent time paining portraits of this unique breed. Being a brachycephalic breed, the Pug was never extensively used for hunting and was only briefly used as a guard dog. Throughout history and up until today, Pugs have been and are indoor companion dogs. They crave the company of their humans. What will a Pug do? It's not uncommon for his to plant his feet down and refuse to go outside with you.He may try and make you work for it a bit. If you are both resting on the sofa, he's sprawled half across your body and you want to get up to get a drink, your Pug may groan a bit and make you roll him off. Most of his behaviors will be amusing, if you have a good sense of humor and if you are the type of owner who wants a dog with tons of personality. Hard to Train? Pugs are no harder to train than any other dog and most do excellent with both housebreaking and commands. It is important to note that any type of training is not accomplished in a day or even in a week. The 2 elements that will help you train your Pug will be ones that compliment and play off of his personality. You'll need to work a bit to keep him focused and you'll need to follow proper guidelines in regard to praise and reward. In some aspects, a Pug dog does better than some other breeds simply because his desire to please his human and his love of tasty treats makes for a motivated dog. There may be some quirks that make certain elements in need of extra attention. The Pug's easy going temperament and somewhat clingy personality can cause the dog to suffer with Separation Anxiety having a difficult time staying calm when left home alone. Taking time to prepare a really good indoor environment can help quite a bit. Adding isolation to the problem of feeling panicked when left alone only compounds matters. For this reason most Pugs do well with a good sized indoor gated off area that is set up in a main room of the house. The living room or kitchen are good choices. There should be space for toys and chews , a water dispenser, a food bowl, a comfortable sleeping area and a spot with newspaper or pee pads for bathroom needs. You can read more about this in the House Training section Begging Pugs do tend to have begging behaviors. If an owner gives in to this during the first year of puppy-hood, it can set up a foundation of begging behavior down the road. It is really difficult to not give in to those "puppy dog eyes" however, setting up rules and guidelines, with feeding in particular, lends to better health. While some "human" foods are perfectly fine for a canine to consume, it is the manner in which a dog is given that food that will either reinforce or discourage the begging. While home cooking for this breed is highly recommended, any food given off of an owner's plate is not a good idea. Once a dog is given any morsel, he will repeat the begging behavior again. A dog metaphorically thinks, "If I begged and received, surely all I need to do is keep up this behavior and I'm sure to eventually receive a treat again! Once this is learned, a Pug will obey commands, listen to the word "No" and show better manners. Meals should be scheduled, and a Pug should be commanded to sit before his bowl is placed down. Treats and snacks should be reserved for training and once a Pug is fully trained, snacks can be reserved for reinforcing good behavior. Note: If a Pug always seems hungry without good reason, reassess the quality of meals and snacks. Worms and other health issues can cause increased appetite, so bring this to the attention of the vet if you cannot resolve this. Chewing Chewing is usually a behavior that is triggered by something as opposed to being an inbred trait or part of a dog's personality. Teething certainly brings strong urges to chew and boredom or anxiety also causes a dog to chew. For teething, offering ice cubes either plain or flavored can help to sooth sore gums. Chilling teething toys in the freezer can also help. Be sure to choose sturdy ones with different textures that promote good dental hygiene and healthy teeth. During this brief phase that all puppies go through, keeping personal items out of reach can prevent the destruction of shoes, pocketbooks, wallets, etc. Keeping a close eye on a teething puppy allows an owner to quickly stop undesirable behavior: Clap your hands to get the pup's attention, take away any object that is not a toy and offer a good chew toy instead, offering praise as the puppy mouths it. Temperament with Other Dogs The Pug generally gets along well with other dogs. Some can be skittish of larger dogs and some will engage full force to be the life of the party. It is rare for a Pug dog to be overly dominant to any other animal and his friendly nature may make him vulnerable to large, more aggressive canines. When out at dog parks or if visiting friends who have pets, it is always a good idea to keep watch. Puppies, in particular, are very inquisitive, sometimes charging ahead into a situation in which they are not prepared. The Pug is by no means shy or submissive to all other dogs, it is more a matter of this breed being a bit more curious and friendly as opposed to what may be other somewhat serious dogs. With Children This breed usually gets along very well with kids of all ages. In a household with younger children who may tend to get rowdy and noisy, it can be helpful to have an area set up in advance, that a Pug dog can retreat to if he is feeling overwhelmed. Often, this can just be a dog bed or other resting area, set back a bit in a quiet corner of a main room. Even though the puppy or dog may want to take a break, he will still want to be able to see and hear his humans, therefore placing him in a separate room is usually not a good idea. Tank St. Bernard and Pugsly 20 weeks old Photo courtesy of the Caywood Family Mimicking One of the best personalty traits of the Pug dog breed is his tendency to mimic his owners. Always aiming to please, a Pug will tend to be more laid back or more outgoing, depending on his owner's nature and habits. This is a learned behavior and it can change over time. This breed is very adaptable, as long as his basic needs are met and he is in a healthy environment. Energy Levels Puppies will be more independent, exploring to find out the answer to "what is this? It is normal for Pug puppies to scamper around, sliding on floors and sniffing at just about everything. It is also normal for pups to mouth objects, since that is one of their main methods of exploration and learning. For this reason, homes should be periodically "puppy proofed", removing any and all small objects off the floor and placed out of reach. An adult will be more relaxed, often content to sit beside or on his owner in front of the TV. One or two 15 to 20 minute walks per day will help to keep this dog healthy.They tend to pick up cues from their humans and then follow along, so an owner should take the initiative to take breaks and never push the dog to go beyond what he can handle Sensitivity This breed is sensitive to his environment and to those around him. In regard to environment, not only does he physically react to temperature he may shiver in a cold house and have trouble breathing in a hot, humid house and how comfortable or not his living quarters are, he also does best in low-key, positive atmosphere. In regard to the interaction he has with his owners, Pugs are rather sensitive to harsh words and tone of voice. How you discipline your Pug will have lasting consequences in both how well he listens and how he reacts to you. If a Pug his yelled at, he can emotionally back away and it can take quite some time for his hurt feelings to mend. Pugs should be rewarded for good behavior, not punished for misdeeds. Without tons of non-judgmental love, this breed can become emotionally withdrawn. While it is recommended to speak in a confident, firm voice when training, be sure to show enthusiasm for things done right and respectful correction for misbehavior. Just about every resource lists one of the Pug dog's traits as being "comical", but what does this mean? Sometimes, the dog is just being a dog, but his appearance can make normal behaviors seem amusing. Other times, it is a matter of a Pug wanting attention.In this regard, command and trick training is often successful, since a Pug will crave those "good boys" or "good girls", a happy pat and a yummy treat. One element to keep in mind, is that even though this breed is known as a "joker", he is not always turned "on" and cannot be the entertainer all of the time. Just like any other pet, a Pug needs downtime to rest and relax. Punk 7 months old Photo courtesy of owner: Miranda Kuney Noises Many, but not all, do exhibit some rather amusing noises. If you are seeking a quiet dog, the Pug may not be the best choice. The most common noises are: burps, flatulence, snorts and snores. Most of this is expected and normal, however if your dog has a sudden or severe increase in breathing related noises, a veterinarian checkup is recommended. Since snores can be quite loud, some owners find it helpful to obtain a white noise machine which can muffle out night time snores. As a Whole This is a well-rounded breed, good in just about any sized household and most certainly a close canine companion that is loyal and extremely friendly. Pugs love to play, learn and be part of the family. Good with other pets, including cats, the Pug is a true family dog. Sometimes wary of strangers, if an owner has regular visitors to the home, they will be accepted over time as long as the Pug does not feel excluded. Most have a very deep bond with their owners, wanting to sleep in their human's bed. Since this is the largest of all toy sized breeds, an adult can take up a good amount of room and may snore in his owner's ear, but will be much happier than if left in another room. This breed does best when the following is offered: A well rounded, healthy diet of wholesome foods A good selection of interactive toys Treated with affection, respect and tolerance A warm, comfortable place to sleep that encourages a feeling of safety and security Plenty of interaction with family members, not having any prolonged periods of isolation Kept inside, except when outside with owners during non-severe weather conditions to exercise and play Brought for regular check-ups with an experienced and reputable veterinarian preferably with previous or current Pug patients , including dental care This is a perfect dog to have for singles or a family who can offer an inside environment with daily outside bursts of activity. Please remember that this breed is not an outside dog. A Pug should never be left outdoors, unattended, for any amount of time. If you are a sucker for a cute face with wrinkles , a dog that shows emotions and an affectionate companion this breed is for you. 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. Pug biting Stubborn Temperament The great thing is that not every Pug owner is going to struggle with these issues. From my personal experience of owning one, Mindy had a great personality. Yes, she had some issues, but not a ton of issues that made me regret the decision of getting a Pug. Pugs are sociable dogs that love human companionship. Mindy was overly dependent and wherever I was, she was right there at my feet. There were a couple of times when I almost tripped over her because she was right under my feet. Whenever they whine, ignore their behavior and turn your back. You can also give them a treat when they stop whining and praise them. Eventually, they will realize that they get rewarded when they are not whining. The lack of a regular routine can lead to separation anxiety issues. This will help calm them down so they know what to expect. It takes time to get your dog to calm down, but with patience and love, you can eventually get your dog to calm down and understand your daily routines. Uncontrollable Barking Barking is a form of communication and also a way to alert you of danger. The great thing is that you can teach your dog to stop barking so much or not bark at all. After doing this several times, she stopped barking and developed a little dove cry when she wanted something. It was cute and it was nice to know that you could actually teach Pugs not to bark. Just remember, it takes patience and a lot of practice to get them to stop that excessive barking. Jumping on People Pugs love attention, at least ours did. When she was about 4 years old, she had a bad habit of jumping on people because she wanted them to pet her. Whenever someone came over, she would jump on them. We hated this behavior problem because we realized that not everyone likes dogs. We realized that dogs usually jump when they are excited or have too much energy. So, we started taking Mindy for long walks and made sure that she got plenty of exercise. This helped us get her to stop that unwanted behavior. Growling Issues A Pug is a has a docile temperament, but there are times when they may growl at you such as when they are eating or playing with their favorite toy. You may not think anything about it, but growling is a form of aggression, that needs to be dealt with. According to experts, growling is usually a form of communication. At times you may experience the growling issues if they are experiencing some type of pain. Unfortunately, Pugs have quite a bit of health issues and as they get older, they may experience aches and pains that can cause them to growl. Pug Dominance Issues Pugs are stubborn dogs and if you let them, they will try to become an alpha dog. You have to let them know that you are in control and they have to listen to what you want them to do. One thing we noticed about Mindy was she loved chewing the strings of our rugs and our hair when we laid down with her. A puppy chews to help them relieve the pain from incoming adult teeth. The best thing you can do is buy them chew toys that they can chew on to help them relieve the pain. Check out some of the best chew toys for Pugs that will help stop this destructive behavior. Older pets will chew if they are bored or dealing with separation anxiety issues. One of the best ways to get them to stop is to give them their favorite toy. If they are bored and have too much energy, put a harness on them and take them for a long walk. Pug Biting According to Canine Journal , over 4. They also have a tendency to bite if they are scared, feeling protective of if they are not feeling well. This is important to know if you have children and they are playing with the family pet. The dog can become excited and accidentally nip them while playing. If this happens, make sure that your dog understands this behavior is not acceptable. They are extremely adorable with those wrinkles. All puppies love to bite and let me tell you, it hurts! We also had to deal with issues of stubbornness with Mindy. This can make training them challenging. However, every pet owner needs to learn how to discipline their pet. No parent would let their kids run their household, you set rules that need to be followed. The same goes with your furbaby, you need to set the rules you want them to follow. Frequently Asked Questions Are Pugs territorial? However, every dog has its own unique personality. Some people have had to deal with aggressive territorial issues when they added a second Pug to their household or a dog that is the same sex. Dogs are fairly easy to train if you can stay persistent and train them properly. The most important thing is to make sure that you start training them and correct bad behavior as soon as you see it. You May Also Like. By Charlotte Oliver Pug behavior problems are exactly what we will be discussing in this post, so read through! After reading this article, you should have a better idea of what to expect from having a Pug. Pug Behavior Problems Pugs are a popular and charming tiny breed of dog, but they have a few behavioral issues, including begging, housetraining difficulties, leaping on humans, separation anxiety, excessive barking, destructive chewing, biting, and nipping. Pugs are sensitive to change and require a stable environment in which to survive. This means you should start training your Pug as soon as possible, so it becomes second nature later. You should also find out whether the dog has any health issues so that you can treat any warning signals before they become more serious. The following are some common Pug behavior problems to be aware of: 1. Separation anxiety Pugs can acquire separation anxiety when they are separated from their owners for a prolonged length of time or when they are left alone unsupervised for an extended length of time. Separation anxiety in Pugs can manifest itself in a variety of ways, including biting, nipping, barking, self-isolation, and chewing. Separation anxiety is caused by leaving Pugs alone at home , which may be avoided by giving a friend or another pet. Helpful Tips to Pug separation anxiety As soon as possible, you should bring in a second pet. Make sure there are lots of fresh plush and amusing toys to keep the puppy entertained. Allow plenty of time for rest and relaxation, as well as exercise. Begin a new, appropriate crate training program for your dog. Make an appointment with a behaviorist for your pet. Consider hiring a dog sitter. Teach them to leave you alone at home and to refrain from following you everywhere. To understand more about Pug separation anxiety and preventing it , check this article. House training difficulties The act of educating a domesticated animal who lives with its human owners in a house to defecate outside or in a designated indoor spot rather than following its innate behavior of defecating at random within the house is known as house-training. Pugs are notoriously tough to housebreak, in my experience. Expect to spend two to three months training in a container. This is perhaps one of the most prevalent pug behavior problems. During the house-training process, provide your Pug a choice of areas to relieve himself. During the housetraining procedure, take your Pug to the restroom on a regular basis before night. Potty training should start the day your Pug is delivered. Do not yell or hit your Pug if he makes a mistake. During the housetraining process, feed your pug at the same time and in the same manner. Make the toilet as accessible as feasible during the housetraining procedure and thereafter. Constantly begging Pug has enticing expressions that are impossible to ignore as the owner, inciting pleading. Begging is a horrible habit, but unfortunately, many dog owners promote it by feeding their pets while they eat. Weight gain, digestive problems, and even persistent diarrhea are all potential side effects. The most basic strategy for preventing this obnoxious behavior is to never endorse it in the first place. If he attempts to pounce on you, twist and turn away. At the same time, feed your pug and consume your meal. Instead of sitting at the table and begging for food, teach your dog to do something else. While you eat, put your dog in his room. Aggression in Pugs can be caused by a variety of factors including poor socialization, fear, anxiety, possessive behavior, and a lack of training or behavioral guidance on the side of the owner. Pugs can bark excessively, and one of the best methods to prevent excessive barking is to properly socialize your pug as soon as possible. Tips to stop excessive barking in Pug To get your dog to quit barking, teach him a new behavior. Select a spot that can be seen from the front entrance. Bring a reward at the door and invite a friend in, but only open it when your dog is calm. Chewing valuables when bored Boredom depression, irritation, anxiety, tension, and loneliness are the most common reasons for destructive chewing in Pugs, all of which can be precipitated by separation anxiety. Something is awry if your Pug is eating everything he sees. It might be a sign of separation anxiety. If you want to keep your Pug away from your valuables, buy him something to gnaw on. Tips to stop pugs chewing Allow your Pug to never be bored or lonely. Keep your Pug occupied at your side at all times. Invest in a variety of chewing and interactive toys for your child. More mental stimulation is required. Make sure your Pug gets enough of exercise. Dog-proofing your home is a good idea. Pugs have rotating taste buds, which might cause them to eat only a few bites or refuse to eat at all. The majority of owners are concerned about this, although it is a manageable tendency. A Pug could be able to sense a protein shortage in a dish and refuse to eat it. Pugs are notorious for being picky eaters since they are aware that eating may bring them pain. Tips to control over selection of what to eat Any meal that is proven to be successful should be kept. If necessary, make the dish more appetizing. Maintain a timetable that suits your needs. Switching to a grain-free choice is a good idea. Use the smallest serving sizes possible. If you have any medical concerns, speak with your veterinarian. Stop giving your pug too many different types of food at once. Always add fruits and veggies to your Pug diet schedule, any of the following can work:. Pug behavior problems come in all shapes and sizes. Every Pug has a unique personality and experience. Do all Pugs have behavior problems? Not all Pugs will have behavior problems. Each and every Pug is an individual. One might be more extroverted and another more introverted. One might love walkies, the other might prefer lounging on the sofa all day. And that means that not every Pug owner will end up with all or even any of the issues we are going to discuss in this article today. However, there are certain behaviors that occur more often with Pugs. Like most behavioral issues, many of these issues can be counteracted or prevented altogether with proper training. Ideally, this should begin when your pup is very young. Look out for these behaviors in your new pup or old-time Pug companion. If you notice your Pug developing any of these undesirable behaviors, ask yourself: Why might they be doing this? Consider what could be causing the behavior What can I do about it? Let the list commence! Incessant whining Incessant whining is a sign of overdependence on human company. Now, Pugs are companion dogs. They were bred for it. But there comes a point when enough is enough. You undoubtedly have other commitments you also need to attend to and even a Pug should be able to tolerate some alone time. Deny your whining Pug of attention by turning your back to them. Once they stop whining and only then turn around, offer praise, and a favorite treat. I know it feels mean, but your Pug needs to learn that whining does not lead to attention. And the best way to do this is to positively reinforce the desired no-whining behavior. Jealousy Jealousy is another Pug trait stemming from their constant desire for companionship. They are little divas at heart. Encourage children and guests to bond with your Pug but always demonstrate caution. If your Pug displays any aggression or unusual behavior leave them alone until they feel safe and secure to interact. Food frenzy Pugs love food. And by that, I mean Pugs are seriously obsessed with food. That means begging, whining, and doing pretty much anything in their power to taste those delicious morsels. If your Pug is begging you for biscuits day in, day out, start by trying out some of these tried and tested methods. Usually, Pugs that develop separation anxiety of some kind do so due to circumstance. Perhaps they have been rehomed multiple times or their owner spends little time at home. What to do about it: The key to treating separation anxiety is routine, familiarity, and distraction. Once you return home you can put the toys away. That way alone time takes on a new meaning — playtime! It might not work the first time around. In severe cases, we would always recommend speaking to your vet or an animal behaviorist. Luckily, Pug yapping is usually just a way to communicate something. Typical causes include: Boredom they might want to play Loneliness they may need attention Frustration is there a squirrel outside? Pain are they injured or unwell? What to do about it: Barking is natural but if your Pug is barking in excess there are some basic training exercises you can do to mitigate the problem. Excessive jumping Pugs are jumpers. These dogs are known for jumping up on people, furniture, and just about anything. However, this behavior can be destructive or even dangerous. They might knock down a breakable item, or someone unsteady on their feet ie. Try not to praise your Pug when they jump too much e. Aim for around 20 minutes walk each day. And rightly so. Too much growling can be a sign of aggression. Pugs growl when they are feeling territorial over something. It could be their food bowl, favorite toy, or personal space in general. Growling is a form of communication — it is your dog alerting you to something. If another person or animal touches this item enters this space uninvited, they will growl as an act of dominance. In other words, to let them know that thing is theirs. You might notice your Pug starts to growl more as they get older. Especially if they have bone or joint problems such as arthritis. If you are under any suspicion that your Pug is unwell visit your vet immediately. The best way to avoid this is through proper puppy obedience training. Unfortunately, Pugs who have had a rough start in life are more prone to aggressive behaviors like this. In this case, you may need the help of a dog behaviorist. And stubbornness is their middle name. If your planning on getting a Pug puppy, attending a puppy training course is a great idea. But even older Pugs, with a bit of time and patience, can make great progress when it comes to training. Start with some basic recall practice in the yard or in your local park you might want to start by using a long leash before letting them run free. Remember to reward your Pug for great recall with cuddles and their favorite treat chicken always goes down well. Wave goodbye to bad Pug behaviors The key ingredient to good Pug behavior is proper socialization and training from puppyhood. Whilst Pugs are generally docile animals, they are still animals with their own unique temperaments. Some might develop unwanted behaviors. Looking out for Pug behavior problems in your dog is the best way to nip them in the bud early. Pugs come primarily in three colors : silver, black, and apricot-fawn. They have a big round head with large sparkling eyes and are considered an ideal house dog. The Pug has always been popular among the aristocrats over the centuries. Pug Behavior Pugs tend to be loving, charming, and mild with an even temper. Because of these attributes, Pugs are perfect contenders for house and family dogs. They are easy-going with children, mildly sensitive, and relatively friendly to strangers. Sometimes they can be stubborn and slightly tricky to train. Are Pugs Aggressive? A Pug is a perfect family dog due to its personality and temperament. Generally, Pugs are not aggressive. But when not socialized effectively when young, they can be stubborn. Coming across an aggressive Pug is an infrequent occurrence since they take to food-based training easily and socialize fast, especially at a young age. What are the Causes of Aggression in Pugs? Several factors can contribute to aggressive behavior in Pugs, including lack of attention, being left alone for long periods, and neglect from its caregivers. Aggressive Pugs exhibit this trait through being bossy, barking, dominance, rushing, and pecking. Such aggression can be heredity, where parents pass these attributes to their litter. Other aggression causes include ill-treatment, and shouting, more so from handlers. Regardless, you can correct this concern through adequate training and socialization of the Pug when young. Having an aggressive Pug can be problematic, and as the owner, you need to curb this behavior to ensure the dog is friendly, gentle, and family-oriented. Training is necessary when your Pug is young since, at this time, pups are relatively easier to train as compared to older dogs. The training window is typically best at 3 to 16 weeks, but ideally before the 20th week. We recommend enrolling in a puppy training course, such as Pupford Academy , so you can be guided by experts. Training mostly involves behavioral training and socialization with the involvement of both humans and other dogs. These activities teach guide your Pug on how to perceive the world around them and how to respond to it. Socialization can be as simple as taking your Pug out for a walk, generally in a place with both dogs and humans such as a park. Behavioral training involves obedience training, where you teach your Pug basic commands. Training is the best way to prevent aggression. Pug puppies, just like most puppies, tend to be hyperactive. So, what contributes to this hyperactive Pug behavior? Among the leading factors include curiosity, separation anxiety, excitement and playfulness. Hyperactive pugs are likely to demolish things, bark for attention, bite and nip, chase things, and get little sleep. Hyperactive Pugs can be stressful for the owner because they demand attention all the time. But as your Pug puppy comes of age, it calms down. This change usually happens at around one and a half to two years. Occasionally, they will have these sudden bursts just like other dog breeds. These zoomies will only manifest when you expose your Pug to specific triggers such as bath time, which may call for restraining. Are Pugs Emotional? Pugs are emotional creatures. They have an affectionate side and a serious side. This trait is due to the secretion of a hormone called oxytocin, also present in humans, that makes them feel caring and loving to others. These basic emotions will include, joy, love, fear, disgust, and anger. Even so, they can also get depressed and anxious, especially when you leave them on their own for relatively long periods. Do Pugs Have Behavioral Problems? Though most Pugs are typically loyal, obedient, and disciplined, some may have behavioral problems depending on their personality. Common behavioral issues include barking, growling, nipping, whining, dominance, separation anxiety, and stubbornness. These issues differ with different Pugs, and not all Pug owners will encounter them. Final verdict Pugs are great family dogs, and with proper training can be emotional supporters. They are loving, loyal, emotional, and playful, great with children and easy to groom. Because of these attributes, Pugs are an ideal choice for many people.

Their main goal is to produce GSDs with an impressive temperament that adheres to the standard of the breed. For years, dogs from this German Shepherd breeder have been actively participating in various national and international breed shows. They also have them undergo tests to make sure they are free from degenerative myelopathy. This gives assurance that the puppies which will be born are of high quality and champion lineage. A guarantee is also given to customers upon purchase. The German Shepherds in Van Der Otto are bred to be excellent protectors for kids and families and as working dogs. This is a result of the dog experience of the founders. Since they are ex-law enforcers, they have seen the exceptional traits of a German Shepherd first-hand. During pregnancy, the females are kept in the home of Otto and are given the attention needed. Puppies are also exposed to socialization at an early age as they believe it helps in the growth and development of the dogs. Von Der Otto has two properties where puppies and dogs are brought to run freely and train. German Shepherd pups are trained to attain superb temperament to be family companions or protectors. This breeder is also involved in training shepherds for k9 sports, law enforcement, and therapeutic services. Another great thing about this breeder is that they have dedicated facilities where the dogs could freely play and train. Their acre property is solely structured to provide the dogs the space they need to enjoy and train. Training obstacles are also present in the vicinity. Different training programs were established to address the needs that vary from simple tasks to advanced training. As early as five months old, puppies can already be enrolled and trained in a special program in this breeding facility. If you are interested in purchasing a German Shepherd puppy in Jagermeister, it is highly suggested that you should make a reservation as early as possible. In addition, although their open field is spacious, they only have limited space for boarding and training programs so you should make an appointment earlier. They started with only four young German Shepherd pups which over time have grown into more than 50 litters. One of the edges that Austerlitz has been upholding to is the dedication of each member in studying and improving their breeding process. All of the breeders and trainers in their facility have at least 20 years of breeding experience with some even granted with AKC Breeder of Merit. They see puppy raising as a delicate task that must involve rigorous planning to accomplish. They even have their own puppy raising protocol which they call puppy culture! A vast amount of effort and attention is given to puppy training, health examination, emotional stability exercises, and behavioral training. From an early age, the trainers in the facility are already teaching the German Shepherd puppies basic polite communication and early toilet training. Producing excellent companion dogs with the ability to become outstanding working companions is the specialization of Austerlitz. They only breed shepherds with exclusive German bloodlines to hone their intelligence and obedience further. Some of the GSDs in their facility have proven their value by winning regional and national competitions. For years, they have been dedicated to selectively breeding healthy and fine European German Shepherd puppies. Nutritional completeness and consistency in the diet are also observed in the nutrition of the dogs. This German Shepherd breeder also makes sure to adhere to the standards in breeding German Shepherds as provided by kennel organizations. The application process is quite simple as they have an application form that is accessible on their website. Upon purchase, you will also be entitled to a lifetime return policy. However, if you want to verify their legitimacy, read our ultimate puppy buying guide for some proven tips on how to safely find a breeder online or how to find a puppy for sale while avoiding scams. There are still many places where you can try to search for your GSD puppy and here they are! This is the place where registered German Shepherd breeders promote themselves. You have the assurance that the puppies sold in AKC Marketplace are pure-breed and high quality. It is the parent kennel club of all German Shepherd clubs in America. A lot of registered German Shepherd breeders promote and sell puppies in the organization. You can try contacting their website or visiting the nearest club near you. Navigating through their website is easy. You can find different breeds of dogs in their listing and German Shepherd is one of them. PuppySpot — PuppySpot is another online platform that enables registered breeders to advertise their puppies. You can find a diverse listing of puppies including German Shepherds. Transporting the puppies is not a problem since PuppySpot works with licensed professional delivery companies to deliver your puppy safely. Euro Puppy — This international puppy finder website has been servicing people around the world for 20 years. Euro Puppy also ensures that all the dogs in their site have met the standard health requirements and are safely transported no matter where. The reason why German Shepherd puppies are expensive compared to other dog breeds is due to the fact that the cost of breeding and raising a German Shepherd is not a joke — especially if the breeder is reputable. Since GSDs are mainly used as working dogs and show dogs, training is imperative in raising them. After purchasing the puppy, what you need to be aware of then are the expenses for the food, health maintenance, supplies, beddings, toys, and other pet essentials. Looking for German Shepherd puppies in your area is easier than you think it is. There are a lot of reputable German Shepherd breeders across the country nowadays. Here are some ways you can do to find a German Shepherd puppy in your area: Ask for referrals from trusted and knowledgeable people. There is no arguing that veterinarians would know who among the German Shepherd breeders in your area are reputable. If you have a local vet, ask for referrals. They will definitely not sell you out. You can also try asking German Shepherd owners. More often than not, they are a member of an organization where breeders advertise. Join groups online or use social media platforms. A lot of breeders nowadays are also using social media platforms to promote their puppies. There are also dedicated groups for German Shepherd breeders and owners in different sites. Visit rescue centers. I know. There is no assurance about the lineage of the puppies in rescues. However, if you are not after the lineage and blood origin of your soon-to-be pet, you might find a treasure in rescue centers. You will not only find a companion, but you will also save a soul. Check local classifieds. If nothing worked, you could try this as your last resort. You can scan through the printed ads or posters in your area which advertise puppies. Nonetheless, always be cautious in dealing with unknown breeders as they might be involved in puppy mill breeding. Final Thoughts Ensuring that the puppy we will bring to our home is raised in a desirable environment and well-trained is essential as it will tell what kind of behavior the puppy will develop. With the top ten German Shepherd breeders on our list, finding the best German Shepherd puppy for you is now easier. If you are really determined to own one, make sure that you are emotionally and financially ready as you are not just buying a plush toy — but a creature that is alive. Just a reminder! Always be careful in dealing with suspicious breeders. Always ask for the certificates and medical history to avoid being scammed. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. There are obvious differences in body structure and aesthetics. But the largest difference is the temperament. The article is an attempt to give insight for those who are seriously interested in the German Shepherd. It is written by a year student of the breed who has bred and trained GSDs for nearly that long as well. As with most any breed, breeding is everything. Yes, there are good breeders and good dogs within each bloodline. American Line Shepherds from American breeding are typically taller and longer than those from Germany. Although there is a breed standard from the parent club, there is little-to-no oversight as what dogs can be bred. As long as they are fully registered, they can breed. Health problems plaque these bloodlines as well, more so than quality European lines. The American shepherd is not required to pass a temperament test, any kind of endurance testing, and is not required to be free of dysplasia. The biggest difference in the American line is the temperament. Most American GSDs have no job, mainly due to their lack of working ability. They are not required to use the brain and the emphasis is more on a pretty trot in the show ring. Because of this softness, they cannot work and but are generally easier to control. American shepherds still have the desire of protectiveness but without the clear head that keeps them from being fear-biters , nervous, or aggressive. Most of them do not have the courage to do true protection work or police work and are easily defensive and almost always skiddish. The differences among the American bloodline is considered by many around the world to be a separate, inferior breed. As a general rule, American Shepherds are a far cry from the real deal. Unfortunately, many people in the USA only know of this kind of dumbed-down version of the true Shepherd dog and consider it as normal. We assure you, it is not. They are usually darker in color than American dogs and their back is roached i. Their temperament is not as strong as von Stephanitz the father of the breed originally idealized. They are easier to control than true working line dogs. The SV German registry requires breeding dogs to have clearances for hips and elbows and a working title along with their show title. As a result, this line is generally healthier than American lines, but usually not as solid as the bloodlines we have yet to talk about. West German lines have little-to-no real emphasis on working. To allow a true shepherd to compete in these trials would reveal the deficiencies within this line. Some within this line do make good workers but it is much harder to find true, consistent working dogs in this line. They have the brains and nerves to do a real job. This line, as a general rule, has less health issues than the others. Breeders within this line aim for working ability, not show-ring quality. They have nice body structure suitable to perform a working function. Generally, they possess balanced drives and good nerve. They also make awesome family pets, without aggression, shyness, or fear. They tend to be energetic and therefore do best in an active home. Their colors are usually bi-color or sable. They tend to mature faster which gives them a longer working life. They usually have a high pain tolerance. These dogs have a love for work, have high energy, are loyal and confident. They are more environmentally sound, i. However, it is also true that this line produces dogs that are smarter than many dog owners and therefore can be, at times, harder to control. When people envision a loyal, confident, awesome GSD, this is the bloodline they dream of, whether they know it or not — color probably being the only exception. DDR dogs were strictly regulated by the government of East Germany. This kind of stringent control of breeding specimen produced a very unique look in the breed. DDR dogs typically have larger heads, large bones, and dark pigment, and many are bi-color. DDR dogs were bred for border patrol work. These dogs have filled capacities in police, military, and security work around the world. They are usually stable dogs with low to medium prey drive. However, their defense drive is typically higher and they are generally wary of strangers. Some can be harder for most people to control. After the fall of the Berlin Wall in , breeding standards in this area of the world were softened and breeders were given more freedom. Many breeders within this line tend be to moving away from working ability with a greater emphasis on beauty. Poor breeding within this line has caused low drive and poor nerves, although many still make good family dogs. Some of the dogs within these bloodlines have solid working drives that are intense and agile. They are usually more slender and more streamlined than DDR dogs. They range in color from bi-color to sable. Czech dogs became more common in America in the late s. At that time, many of these dogs had bad hips and poor temperaments. They were definitely harder to control. However, within the last 20 years their drives have improved, they are more social, and have a greater trainability than previous years. Their hips have improved as well. A good, contemporary Czech shepherd possesses a nice balance in prey and defense. Be informed about what line of German Shepherd will best meet your needs. If you want a laid-back dog, do not get a working-line Shepherd. Probably an American line or West German line would be best for you. If you are concerned about overall health, stay away from show lines. Admittedly, there will be those who disagree with this article. Our attempt is not to be offensive but rather to help sort through the malaise of misinformation and ignorance concerning the German Shepherd Dog. Also, we have very solid dogs available. We pride ourselves on breeding stable temperaments, neither shy nor aggressive. We have dogs for family pets and others to fulfill working capacities — law enforcement, sport, security, SAR, HRD, and more. Check our For Sale page to see availability. By Yuliya Matvyeyeva How has a breed that is rather young become the most popular breed in the world? The answer lies in its versatility, intelligence, and devotion. The German Shepherd Dog possesses wonderful working abilities that are directly related to the special traits of this breed, such as solid nerves, easygoing behavior, eagerness to please, strong guardian instinct, and loyalty. This provides a foundation for use of the German Shepherd Dog as a watchdog, protection dog, and as a companion. Due to the high popularity of the breed, several distinct German Shepherd dog types have emerged. If you are looking for a German Shepherd puppy , you need to be aware that just because someone bred two German Shepherds, it does not necessarily mean that the offspring will have all of the wonderful characteristics that the breed is famous for. This article is intended to give you an overview of several of the most common types of GSD. Germans take great pride in their breed. It is a national treasure. Naturally, they make sure that the dogs they breed are the best. In Germany, there are very strict rules when it comes to breeding German Shepherds. First of all, ALL breeding stock is required to pass hip certification. Sound temperament is critical too. This is to say that, prior to breeding, each dog must have at least a Schutzhund I title or its equivalent , which is quite a challenge to achieve. Also, every dog must pass an endurance test AD , which consists of running approximately 12 miles. All of this ensures that only the best and healthiest population is used for breeding. If you are looking for a dog that will search for drugs or contraband, or will be part of a search and rescue team, you should look for a German Shepherd that comes from working lines. These dogs make great family companions too, but some of them require an experienced handler and trainer. Successful working dogs have a stable temperament with a great disposition and know how to relax. They can also perform miracles in obedience. Falk von den Wolfen 9th place BSP If you want a strikingly beautiful dog, a head turner - these lines might be for you. A good show line German Shepherd Dog is beauty itself, but its beauty is functional and not abstract. Show line German Shepherds tend to be larger than Working line dogs and brighter in color. Also, they usually have a softer and more agreeable temperament. They too, however, must have a Schutzhund title in order to be bred, and pass a courage test at each National show where they compete - in accordance with SV rules. They make exceptional family companions and protectors. German show line German Shepherds are in no way couch potatoes; they need exercise, training, and lots of social interaction. The difference might be in structure - sometimes favorable, sometimes not. German Working Bloodline breeders try to follow the German Shepherd breed standard , and often succeed, whereas most other European Working Bloodline breeders still have some work to do. Often it is a matter of personal preference. As far as working ability, there are outstanding working German Shepherd Dogs among the other European lines, and they have a very dedicated following. Some examples of such lines are: Czech or Slovak working lines, Belgium working lines, etc. Conan Plamen Czech Working Bloodlines American Bloodlines are practically a different breed of dog, as breeders who promote this type do not follow the international German Shepherd breed standard. The German Shepherds of this type usually have thinner bones, narrower heads, exaggerated angulation, and softer ears and pasterns. In addition, there are several health concerns that seem to be more common among these dogs, such as bloat, allergies, and excessive shedding. There is another serious issue to consider when looking at this type of dog - there is no hip certification required by the main breed registries in the United States. There are no temperament tests required either. If you do decide to get an American line German Shepherd, be certain that not only its parents, but all ancestors for at least four generations have healthy OFA certified hips and that you can at least verify the temperament of the parents. American Type GSD.