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Buy, Sell or Adopt Pets in Charlotte. He will definitely not disappoint in looks or personality. Browse all the puppies for sale Charlotte Dog Club has available. Contact us today if you have any questions about our breeders or puppies. Currently in pasture with sheep, goats and chickens. Puppies are Black with minimal white chest markings, up to date on vaccines and deworming and microchipped. Text for more info and more pics of the one your interested in please. At the Charlotte Dog Club, we are a club of loving, responsible breeders. Pets near Port Charlotte, FL. Buy, Sell or Adopt Pets in Raleigh. Hey I have some Beautiful bully puppies that were born March 2nd. Puppies are Black. Newspapers and local publications can be the most costly of all choices. Our sole purpose is to find amazing homes for our beloved babies. He will come up to date on vaccinations limited… more. The cost of advertising your pets locally and through nationwide venues can strain your budget. American Bully Puppies. Our puppies are raised in our home with our family and receive lots of love and attention. All healthy and Up to Date on vaccines and dewormer. These will be large dogs so make sure you are prepared and know the breed. Contact me for more information. Shadow is crate trained and fully vaccinated. One puppy left! Female Mom is Boston terrier Dad is unknown Super sweet! Puppies for sale from dog breeders near Charlotte, North Carolina. Dogs for Sale in Charlotte. Great Dane Puppies. He is super smart and very laid back. He will go home started on basic obedience. Great with children and livestock. One round of shots including kennel cough. Loves to play very good with kids and other dogs and cats. Pet Classifieds Charlotte. You can post information about your pets on free pet classifieds that are read by people interested in taking the next step in pet ownership. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. We have 2 male, purebred white German Shepherd puppies. German shepherd puppies. I have two female half German shepherd and half red heeler mix puppies. German Shepherd Puppies for Sale!! Long Coat German Shepherd Puppies. German Shepherd Puppies. James We have 2 male, purebred white German Shepherd puppies. Dog puppy German shepherd. Black German shepherd male for sale. All puppies from these parents. Sable German Shepherd puppies. These puppies are very playful, have been around kids and will make a wonderful family pet! Details: - 7 weeks old. Mount Carmel German shepherd puppies. AKC paperwork will come with pups. For rehoming fee and more information feel free to call, text,or email. German shepherd puppies for sale. Please call or text for more info, we are not on the computer often. Purebreed Puppies with AKC paperwork. For Sale "german shepherd puppies" in Atlanta, GA. German Shepherd Puppies Longhaired. Find the best German Shepherd Puppies in Pakistan. Third picture is of their dad and the fourth picture is a half brother. Two german shepherd puppies looking for their forever home. They will be ready for their new home June 8th. Purebred White German Shepherd Puppies. We have 1 male, black long hair looking for a forever home. Find for sale for sale in Atlanta, GA. German shepherds. Western German Shepherd. He has shots, deworming, and AKC papers. For Sale "german shepherd" in Atlanta, GA. SF bay area for sale "german shepherd puppies" - craigslist SF bay area for sale "german shepherd puppies" - craigslist We've detected that JavaScript is not enabled. German Shepherd puppies Riverside Riverside. Rehoming German Shepherd Puppies. Black and tan I have 4 boys and 4 girls available. All puppies from these parents are. German Shepherd Puppies in Pakistan. Mother is trained protection dog, father is horse farm general farm shepherd, both dogs have great temperament and drive, great with kids,, puppies are three weeks. German Shepard Puppies. Akc Black German Shepherd Puppies. Bennett 10 week old German Shepherd puppies for sale! Cute and loveable, need homes. All puppies from these parents are great family dogs as we keep in contact with the owners. Their parents are both AKC registered purebreds. They are wormed, have had 2 vet checks, are fully vaccinated and are AKC registerable. Post your classified ad for free in various. CKC German shepherd puppies. German Shepherd for Sale in Pakistan. Full breed Czech working blood line puppies AKC registered ,4 males one female. SF bay area for sale "german shepherd puppies". For rehoming fee and more information feel. German shepherd puppies AKC. They are very gentle family dogs. German shepherd husky puppy. Craigslist helps you find the goods and services you need in your community.

Thank you for your interest in our AKC Goldens. See below to join our Farm News for updates on new litters. We accept deposits right here on our website to Hold the Gender of your Choice first paid-deposit, first reserved basis. If you have a preference for which momma you'd like, you can make note of that when placing a deposit. Otherwise, we will notify you when the next litter is available and confirmed through ultrasound! Your new fur baby will be ready to go home at 8 weeks old. The final payment must be made before taking the puppies home. Please join our email subscriber's here. Each puppy has such a precious, unique personality, so we like for our families to have time to interact with them and pick them out in person. We will schedule 1-hour appointments when the puppies are ready to be picked up 8 weeks old. Deposits are non-refundable. You or a flight nanny will need to meet us outside of the airport for puppy pickup. Additionally, If you are unable to fly to pick up the puppy or arrange a flight nanny , we are happy to provide the flight nanny service for you. The Flight Nanny charge is outlined below. Please feel free to message with more questions. We are happy to offer flight nanny service, though! The nanny is either ourselves or someone we personally know and trust. The flight nanny is attuned to your pet's needs and will give special attention to a smooth, caring transition from our farm to your arms. Flight Nanny fee must be paid ahead for scheduling purposes. We are happy to speak through these detail specifics with you. Be sure to watch for our mahogany. This will allow your veterinarian to become more comfortable and familiar with your dog, making it easier for them to detect unusual changes. Aside from vet bills, pet insurance is an important investment that most dog owners tend to ignore. You may not be able to avoid employing the services of pet daycares, dog walkers, and others if you are going out of town or busy with work. These kinds of services are becoming increasingly popular these days. Your pet will be cared for by trained pet handlers at pet daycares. Travel Expenses: If you enjoy traveling with your Golden Retriever, you may need to pay some extra fees because many hotels do not allow pets. Dog Training: This breed has a high level of intelligence. With the right puppy training, your puppy should be able to learn a variety of tricks. Basic obedience training and socialization are important for a growing Golden puppy. Emergency Medical Treatment: Medical emergencies cannot always be avoided. Of course, these scenarios typically come at a high cost. This breed is recommended to visit a professional groomer once every 8 to 10 weeks. All these potential expenses are optional, except for emergency medical treatment. You can learn how to avoid these fees entirely as you go, which will save you even more money if you want to be practical. Make sure to talk to the breeder before adopting or buying, as not all breeders have the best intention for their puppies. They also raise funds for canine health research. Their puppies are sold with a contract for neutering or spaying as well as a registration from the American Kennel Club. This means that the quality of their dog is in their best interests. Sun-Golden Kennels — This Golden Retriever breeder operating in Wisconsin raises all of their dogs in their home, so the temperament is fairly balanced. They allow their dogs to run around inside their home and sleep beside their bed to socialize with them. They also involve them in activities such as playing ball, hiking, and swimming with other dogs. The rescue organization also houses other breeds such as the Labrador Retriever and mixed breeds like the Goldendoodle and Labradoodle aside from Golden Retrievers. Their dogs are ready for adoption and have undergone health screenings, rabies vaccinations, heartworm vaccinations, deworming, neutering, and flea and tick treatment. This shelter is open to long-distance adoption in collaboration with other regional rescue groups, as long as the adoptive family meets specific guidelines and conditions. These fees are usually used by rescues for vet bills, registration papers, and other expenses for their dogs. You can also check out our compiled list of reputable Golden Retriever breeders and rescue organizations that house purebred Golden Retrievers to help you with your search for your perfect dog. You may also want to read our ultimate dog adoption guide to ace your adoption application at any of the rescues listed above. Here are some money-saving tips for Golden Retriever owners: Make your own food and treats. Instead of buying store-bought dog food and treats for your Golden, you can learn how to make them yourself. Recommended dog food for the Golden Retriever includes chicken , healthy whole grain meals, approved veggies and fruits, and unseasoned and natural ingredients. Consider home grooming. Grooming a Golden does not have to be a difficult chore. Grooming Golden Retrievers cost a fortune when brought to a professional groomer. Your dog does not require as much grooming as many other breeds. The simple task of brushing and combing their coat will keep shedding under control and the buildup of mats and tangles at bay. Bring them to the vet regularly and keep an eye out for accidents. Because vet bills can be pricey, you must ensure that your Goldie does not suffer from any significant illnesses or injuries. Try training your own dog. Paying for dog trainers may cost you more money. If you do not want to participate in dog shows or contests, it is preferable to train your Golden yourself. This would save you a few bucks while also providing a bonding opportunity for you and your Golden. Choose quality dog supplies. It is recommended that first-time dog owners get high-quality products for their dogs. Choosing a cheaper item may end up costing you more in the long run because you may need to replace it on a regular basis. You can save money where you can, but make sure your Goldie receives the care and attention it deserves. Always remember that a healthy dog is a happy dog. A healthy Golden Retriever is not hard to maintain. With the right mindset, you could keep your pooch in tip-top shape while saving money. Keep in mind that expenses may vary based on the lifestyle you keep for your Golden. By ensuring their good health and condition as well as applying practical money-saving tips, raising a Golden Retriever is not a difficult task. 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. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. It is also important to understand there are different types of golden retrievers which may affect pricing. For example, if you decide to choose the lowest golden retriever cost option, those puppies almost never have the necessary 3rd-party assurances or veterinarian procedures like dewormings, vaccinations, health-tested parents, or a thorough health checkup. These missing costs and services will be your responsibility, making the total cost ultimately the same. Not to mention the added stress on you these extra expenses and issues create! Adopting vs. Please note that depending on the shelter, you may have to pay additional costs for your Golden certain shots and procedures. Depending on if the golden retriever is a boy or a girl may affect the price as well. Some male vs female golden retriever differences may make you prefer one over the other. This will ultimately save you time and money on your golden retriever price because breeders often pay lower veterinary rates than individuals do. Distemper, for example, is a highly contagious disease that attacks the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and nervous systems of dogs. Unfortunately, there is no cure — just a lot of expenses and stress which really adds to the overall cost of your Golden Retriever puppy. It is wise to ask your vet for guidance on this decision. Talk with your vet about the procedure, when you should get it done, and how much it might cost. Dental Care for Your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers, like many dogs, can be prone to dental issues such as plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. These cleanings typically involve scaling, polishing, and potentially extractions if necessary. Some insurance providers offer optional dental coverage as an add-on or as part of more comprehensive plans. If dental coverage is included in the policy, it typically covers a portion of the costs associated with dental cleanings, extractions, and other necessary dental treatments. This typically includes services such as bathing, brushing, trimming, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and sometimes additional services like de-shedding or dematting. Some groomers may offer package deals or discounts for regular appointments or bundled services. This monthly expense may seem like an additional cost, but it can be a worthwhile investment when considering the potential savings on veterinary bills for treatments, surgeries, and medications. By having pet insurance in place, you can ensure that your Golden Retriever receives the necessary care without straining your finances in the event of unexpected health issues. Puppy Training and Socialization Classes Attending puppy training and socialization classes is highly recommended for the comprehensive development of your Golden puppy. These classes provide structured learning environments, social interaction, and essential obedience training. By enrolling your Golden Retriever puppy in these classes, you ensure they receive the necessary foundation for good behavior, social skills, and overall well-being. The cost for food will depend on the size, age, and activity level of your companion. Fortunately, the cheaper brands of dog food can be just as good as the more premium brands as long as they meet the standards of AAFCO and are made with minimal processing. When making your decision, make sure to avoid artificial ingredients and preservatives where you can, since they could cause health problems for your dog. Puppies cost more than adult or senior Goldens. This holds true for all dog breeds, because there is more demand for puppies than older dogs. Age affects the adoption fee, but it does not reflect the quality of the dog in most cases. This can be thousands of dollars less than a puppy, but this does not discount the love and affection an adult can offer. Surprisingly, this dog comes in more than just gold color varieties. There are also red, cream, brown, and yellow color varieties. There will, very rarely, even be a Golden Retriever that has black-tipped ears or has a black spot on its body. These puppies have cream-colored coats and are very rare. Goldens that have black markings on their coat are often cheaper. A puppy with healthy warranties and pedigree certification will be twice as much as a puppy without them. One of the top health certifications is hip dysplasia screening. Choosing A Breeder Not all breeders put a lot of time, effort, and money into their Golden Retriever puppies. Breeder associated expenses include breeding fees if the breeder does not own both a breeding male and female , breeding license, veterinary care for mom and pups, health tests and certifications, warranty, registration, insurance, whelping and food. Golden Retrievers typically have eight puppies in each litter. Puppies that are bought from pet stores can come from large-scale commercial dog breeding operations i. Commercial dog breeding facilities should be avoided. A chronic lack of space, insufficient nutrition, poor hygiene standards, and routine overbreeding of the dogs are par for the course in puppy mills. This is inhumane and causes a number of serious health issues for the puppies: matted fur; eye, ear, and throat infections, dental problems and severe genetic deformities. So, how do you make sure you adopt a dog from a trustworthy and reputable breeder? One of the first steps you can do is to check the status of a breeder. All puppies sold via this marketplace are purebred, pedigree and health certified. In the United Kingdom, the Kennel Club has a list of approved breeders. All puppies sold via this marketplace are insured, pedigree and health certified. There are a handful of additional factors that also affect a Golden Retriever price. Breeder location is one of them. Certain cities and states enforce breeding regulations and charges. Breeding licenses normally apply to professional breeders who breed more than 20 puppies each year. Home-based breeders can get exemptions. Full AKC registrations are a decision that will be made on a case by case basis. Puppy selections are made on the day of puppy pick up. We believe this is a very big step for most puppy-parents, so to be fair we want you to have the opportunity to watch all the puppies as they grow bigger and develop their little personalities. Selecting your puppy at eight weeks will also allow you to better identify size and coloration if that is your preference. You will raise your puppy with the confidence it is recognized by the American Kennel Club as a purebred Golden Retriever. As a consumer, you are spending a lot of money on a puppy and there is great value in knowing your breeder has followed all the criteria needed to fulfill the requirements set forth by AKC. This information will be mailed to your home, usually within weeks. Full AKC Registration is exactly the same as the limited registration, with one difference: should you decide, as your puppy gets older, you want to breed it with another fully registered Golden Retriever, you will be able to register the litters with the American Kennel Club. Did you ask the owner where they got it, and how much it cost them? The most often asked question I get by e-mail is how much does a golden retriever puppy cost to purchase. Even more specifically, how much does a golden retriever puppy cost in California? In this article, I will discuss how much a golden retriever can cost and why the variation in prices. Often, but not solely, it depends on the investment the breeder has in the parents as well as the time invested in the pups. A reputable breeder will research their lines extensively. When I research buying a pup from other breeders I check all their certifications, pedigrees, as well as the age of death and whether or not they died of cancer. Purchasing a pup with full rights can be expensive. A breeder generally should get OFA certifications on both parents. Many breeders will get preliminary consults at one year of age which doubles the cost. There are additional tests that breeders can also get for their Goldens. Assuming a breeder owns both parents, the cost for the OFA certifications are doubled. Many breeders show their dogs. The costs of showing are in the thousands of dollars, per dog. AKC shows can cost in the thousands for a single weekend. Many breeders have to travel hundreds of miles, pay for a hotel, pay for groomers, hire handlers, purchase crates, and spend hundreds of dollars for entrance fees. To gain an AKC championship you have to attend multiple shows. Conformation in a show does not mean the dog is healthy. This is an entirely different topic that can open a can of worms. Another cost to a breeder is the cost of the litter occur themselves. When I have puppies, I have a room dedicated in my home to the pups. It is tiled, and has an expensive whelping pen, pads, heaters, toys and so much more. Every day we clean up after the pups multiple times. Cleaning supplies can be expensive. I know many breeders who breed in kennels. They just spray down the kennels with water. The socialization of pups alone is why many breeders I know charge more. It is my opinion those who socialize their pups in their home offer a better quality pup in terms of temperament. Not only does it cost more, but the investment in time is unquantifiable. Lastly, most breeders vaccinate, deworm, microchip, and visit the vet for a puppy well check. God forbid any problem to occur with the mother and a cesarean is needed. Sometimes breeding has unintended consequences. Say a dog fails their certifications or needs unexpected surgery, that investment has to be recuperated somehow. A few years back Ember had to have surgery. She decided to chew on some plastic that got lodged in her stomach. She nearly died and was in the hospital for two weeks. After recovering from surgery, I had all her certifications done, and at the age of 2, she got pyometra. Another 10 grand, and we had to spay her. She never had puppies. Unexpected costs like this make breeding an expensive endeavor. In the long run, the costs to treat those illnesses can far surpass the initial high price of purchasing a healthy pup from a reputable breeder. You may have to work on training more extensively, but it is very rewarding. For a list of Golden Retriever rescues in Southern California click the link. As we discussed throughout this article the price will depend on whether or not you purchase a puppy from a reputable breeder, or a run of the mill breeder trying to turn a quick buck. No matter how much a puppy may cost initially, you have to be ready for the cost of ownership once you are taking care of them. Once the pup is in your home, they should become another child. This oversight, aside from behavioral issues, is one of the biggest cause of pups ending up in a shelter. Research is key. Best of luck on your puppy searching adventure. Learn more about our training services here. Interested in applying for a puppy? Submit a free, 1-minute application on GoodDog. Apply Now on GoodDog. I feel very lucky to have found SWD after months of searching for a breeder with the right fit for what I was looking for. Jordan provided great communication, knowledge, and advice throughout the adoption process, which was essential to me as a new dog owner. I could not be happier with my puppy, and would recommend them to anyone. Thank you, SWD! From the first time we reached out that we were interested in this breed to bringing our sweet baby home we felt like a part of this family. We were drawn in by their philosophy and mission for this beautiful breed and family dogs and will forever be grateful to be a part of it. Their love and compassion for their dogs and the homes these puppies go to knows no bounds. So thankful to have our sweet girl and will always recommend Southern Water Dogs for families looking for an amazing golden. Thanks so much for helping add to our family. We were kept informed of every major phase of our puppy's development, from conception to when we picked her up. Jordan and Haley did an outstanding job of not only socializing the pups to other people, kids, etc. Our girl is such a confident, happy puppy not only because of her genetics but also because of the way Jordan and Haley raised her!

Early Boxers were bred to serve a varied purpose — that of a guard, escort and companion dog, full of strength and energy. The Boxer excels in all of these areas, and has an outstanding reputation as a family pet, loyal companion, tractable guard and an impressive show dog. John P. For the man, woman or child who wants an all-round dog, he has no equal. No other dog is more individual in appearance, more keenly intelligent or sanely even-tempered. It is muscular, yet retains elastic and energetic movement and a distinct degree of elegance. Temperament The Boxer is renowned from olden times for its great love and faithfulness to its master and household, as well as its alertness and fearless courage as a defender and protector. The Boxer is docile, but distrustful of strangers; this makes it an equable guard dog. It is bright and friendly in play, but brave and determined when roused. Maintenance With its short, smooth coat and clean ways, the Boxer is a relatively low-maintenance dog. The coat is easy to clean and has no major odour. A regular bath and a quick brush to remove any loose hair is all that is required. The Boxer is very active, and both requires and enjoys regular exercise with its owner, such as walking, jogging or running loose at a dog-friendly park. A good-sized, well-fenced yard is also essential, where dogs can play with toys, spend time with the kids and wander at will. If living outside, an elevated bed in a warm and draft-free place is required. Boxers are generally great eaters and should be fed a healthy, balanced diet. Health This breed generally keeps very good health. Responsible breeders will screen for inheritable diseases, particularly for heart diseases such as aortic and pulmonic stenosis as well as cardiomyopathy. Unfortunately, the biggest health issue in Boxers is cancer; tumours are the main cause of early loss. On the whole though, the Boxer is healthy and hardy with a normal life span being between 10 and 12 years of age. Suitability The Boxer is the quintessential family dog. It has a great temperament and is active, loyal, hardy and clean. You will find its favourite place is by the side of the children, with whom it is intrinsically patient and stoic. The Boxer also has a great sense of humour and is an intelligent dog that enjoys learning. As such, it is an easy breed to train. It particularly enjoys Agility, where its splendid jumping skills and athletic ability come to the fore. Before you make a decision, please make contact with the breed club or your State controlling body for purebred dogs. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog shows where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the Boxer and its needs, and whether this breed would suit your lifestyle. Wonderful boxer pupps looking for their new home 1 Brindle boy! Boys will be boys, however he is also gentle at the same time. One of the biggest and strongest out of the whole pack. A little mini copy of big Daddy 1 White Female! She is just like mom will capture your heart and you will be fallen for her forever. Has got the same personality as the Mommy! Very caring and affectionate along with a lot of playfulness. She is one of a kind!! They all come vaccinated and micro-chipped. Attila Purebred Boxer puppies for sale 2 gorgeous little girls and 1 handsome little boy looking for kind and loving parents. We are not commercial breeders. This will be the first and the last litter. All of our puppies are raised indoors around children and with lots of love. Both mum and dad are purebred boxers with excellent DNA and temperaments. Very well trained and very doting parents. Puppies are microchipped, first vaccinated, have their health checked, treated for worms, and ready to go. Call Dishni on or email at dishni hotmail. Our gorgeous puppies arrived on the 28th of November and will be ready for forever homes from 23rd January. Feel free to reach out, and we will send photos of the specific puppy you are interested in Mum is a wonderful, caring girl. She is gentle yet playful. She loves spending time with family. Mum is 6 years old with no health issues. She is unpapered. Dad is owned by a friend and he is young and very playful. He has no health issues and he is a papered. Our puppies receive lots of love and attention and will be fully vaccinated, micro-chipped, and wormed on a regular basis. PM for photos of parents We are more than happy to assist committed owners with organising interstate transport at your expense Pups will be ready to be picked up from us after 23rd November QLD delivery. Please get in touch with me about this. Currently they are only 3 weeks old. Pups are raised indoors with children and other animals. April Shaw Boxer puppies purebred Beautiful purebred boxer puppies, ready 11 December. Beautiful rich red colour. Mum is a flashy red, dad is a solid red, both family pets with great temperament. Raised in a family with children handling the puppies. Will be vet checked, vaccinated, microchipped, and wormed. Will come with a puppy pack. Moss Grove Boxers are delighted to announce the safe arrival of nine beautiful boxer puppies, 6 males and 3 females. The pups were born on the 20th of September and will be ready to go to their new homes from the 15th of November .All our boxers are greatly treasured members of our family. Living in our home providing much love for our children and entertainment for our visitors. Initially, our puppies are raised in our living room, in their own snuggery hideout. Once they commence the transition to solid food, they move into our custom-built puppy den and play yard, still under very close supervision, just outside our living room. All our puppies are frequently handled by variety of people, ensuring they will have a friendly and trusting nature - making these pups the ideal family companion. With exposure to a wide range of sensory experiences, our pups will come to you confident and ready to play! This is a safeguard for you - to ensure that you are receiving a pup with full disclosure of their health and temperament. Each pup will leave its litter pack, with a high value and tailor-made puppy pack! If you would like to inquire about our beautiful boxer puppies, the most efficient way to contact us is initially via email. If you decide you would like to purchase a puppy, we will provide you with our mobile number. From here we will organise an in-personal viewing or if you prefer, a video call may be arranged for you to see your puppy. We will endeavour to respond within 24 hours of any inquiry. We have named this litter after the hit kids cartoon - Bluey. As such each pup has been nick-named after characters from the show. Brandy - girl2. Winton - boy3. Lucky - boy4. Indy - girl5. Captain - boy6. Jasper - boy7. Rusty - boyWe have 9 pups - to see all our photos please check out our website! We have 4 boys and 2 girls left available. Dad is red and Mum is reverse sealed! Puppies will be fed Blackhawk puppy food with optimum wet puppy food. They will also pedigree puppy milk when old enough. All puppies will come with a puppy pack! Photos will be updated as they get older! Kristi Lee Bundles of love, loyalty, and affection We have kept boxers for 18 years now and want to give others the joy of owning a boxer, so we have bred our first litter. There are 5 pure bred boxer puppies for sale. They were born on the 2nd June and will be ready to fly the coop on the 29th if July. All puppies will come wormed and vaccinated, microchipped and vet checked. They will come with a puppy starter pack, life time of support and if required assistance with training. They are being raised in the family home by the fire.

I have over 30 years of experience in training, importing, and breeding Belgian Malinois. Belgian Malinois and working dog breeding, in general, has become a huge commercial business and that resulted in Belgian Malinois with genetic defects, and temperament issues. It is extremely important to us to breed only health-tested Belgian Malinois with no genetic defects and excellent temperaments. I have studied genetics extensively including in my education. I received my Associate's degree in Criminal Justice and wanted to continue my education involving animals. My main goal as a Belgian Malinois breeder has always been health and temperament. Belgian Malinois breeding is a time-consuming expensive hobby and no one should ever breed Belgian Malinois for commercial purposes. I want to make a difference and breed very healthy and stable Belgian Malinois that will work but will also be great family companions. My main goal is always excellent health and a rock-solid temperament. Not all Malinois are the same! Different breeders are breeding dogs with certain characteristics. A Malinois with the correct genetics can be an excellent family companion. Malinois can vary greatly in temperament and conformation! The most common flaws in the temperament of Malinois are lack of confidence which can develop into fear aggression. Environmentally unsound, Dominance — leading to possessive behaviors, and territorial aggression. There are breeders that breed very aggressive and unpredictable dogs usual breeders with very little experience and knowledge , if you do not want such a dog, stay away from them. But a well-bred Malinois fits in society. Some are quite outgoing and some don't feel the need to run to everyone they meet to greet. The personality or temperament has a strong genetic influence but how the dog is raised is crucial to what it will grow up as. Belgian Malinois are intelligent, protective, playful, and energetic. They tend to make great family pets. Should a Belgian Malinois Mix take after this parent, you should be able to expect something similar. A Belgian Malinois is known for their intelligence and prized for their hardworking nature and protective instinct. Their high energy and playful personality means they tend to retain a puppy-like demeanor until they are about three years old. They get along well with children as well as other dogs and pets in the household as long as they are socialized with them. Because of their protective instinct, socialization and training early and often are particularly important. The other parent breed could introduce some potential traits that could affect temperament. So, you do want to ask the other breeder about them. You can also meet the mother dog in person to see what sort of temperament she is modeling for her pups. Belgian Malinois are moderately adaptable dogs. Their high energy tends to make them a better fit for homes with securely fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt to apartment living as long as sufficient time is dedicated to giving them the exercise and training they need. As long as the other parent breed has similar adaptability traits, you should be able to expect the same in a Belgian Malinois Mix. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? A mixed-breed dog can sometimes win the genetic lottery and inherit none of the potential health conditions common to either parent breed. At the same time, they could inherit potential conditions common to one parent or both parent breeds. From the Belgian Malinois side, potential health concerns include hip dysplasia, thyroid disease , and progressive retinal atrophy. Reputable breeders will screen their stock to avoid passing issues on to puppies. Although the Belgian Malinois is highly intelligent and picks up on things easily, they are also high-energy dogs with an independent nature and a strong will. This means they are generally not a good fit for first-time dog owners. Puppy training classes are recommended, even for an experienced owner, as these classes often offer opportunities to socialize a puppy. A Belgian Malinois Mix can inherit a coat similar to one parent breed or a coat that is a blend of both, so grooming requirements will be different depending on coat type. Should they inherit a Belgian Malinois coat, they will shed moderately year-round and heavier when seasons change. A weekly brushing and the occasional bath are usually sufficient for this coat. And, you will want to brush them more often during seasonal changes. When checking ears, you are making sure they are clean, dry, and free of debris or pests. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal. But, many dog owners skip or overlook this, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. The Belgian Malinois is a high-energy, athletic dog breed. They need daily walks, playtime, and extra activity every day to stay happy and healthy. They also need a job to do and are good candidates for dog sports like flyball, agility, and more. If the other parent breed is also a high-energy dog breed, then you can expect a Belgian Malinois Mix to be a high-energy dog as well. But, you will still need to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog. A Belgian Malinois tends to be inches tall and pounds once fully-grown. The other parent breed could affect this, so you want to make sure you ask the breeder about it. You also want to pay attention to which breed is the mother as this will also affect the size of the puppies, especially in a mixed-breed dog. Belgian Malinois tend to live for years. The other parent breed may affect this slightly, but you can likely expect a similar life span in a Belgian Malinois Mix. Featured Belgian Malinois Mix Article. Life Span Did You Know? The Malinois originated in Belgium in the late s and was bred to guard and herd livestock. The Belgian Malinois is one of four different types of Belgian sheepdogs, including the Tervuren , Laekenois, and Groenendael. Of the Belgian sheepdogs, the Malinois is the most common and widely recognized. Although they were originally bred for herding, the Belgian Malinois excels as a military or police dog. The Belgian Malinois was used for military purposes as far back as World War I with many soldiers bringing their Malinois dogs home to the States after the war ended. Following that time, the AKC saw a large increase in registrations of this breed. Today, the Malinois is more commonly found as a working breed. Some facts about Belgian Malinois are that they are versatile working dogs and popular military dogs. These dogs are exceptional at finding explosives, narcotics, and tracking fugitives attempting to avoid apprehension. The Malinois is a protective and highly intelligent dog breed. As one of the most active dog breeds , the Malinois is a hardworking dog that may be serious when on task, but will also likely exhibit a puppy-like playfulness and energy until around the age of three. As long as they are properly socialized and trained, Belgian Malinois tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Because of their protective instinct, they will be initially wary of strangers. But, if they are well-socialized, they will tend to warm up once introduced. They tend to bark to alert, which can become a nuisance if you unintentionally encourage the behavior or do not train your dog to stop barking early on. The Belgian Malinois is a moderately adaptable dog breed. Although they can adapt to apartments if enough time is dedicated to daily exercise and mental stimulation, they are better suited to homes with fenced yards where they can run. They do well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat and are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Because they bond closely with their families, have a lot of energy, and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Belgian Malinois include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , progressive retinal atrophy, and thyroid disease. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As one of the smartest dog breeds , the Belgian Malinois picks up on training quickly and is generally eager to please. However, they are also energetic, get bored easily, have a strong herding instinct, and can be strong-willed. First-time owners are encouraged to enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a trainer. Belgian Malinois have short, waterproof coats that will shed a little year-round and will shed heavier as seasons change. Brushing weekly or a few times a week and the occasional bath are usually enough to keep them comfortable and their coat looking great. Cutting nails once or twice a month is usually enough to keep them from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet as needed, is ideal dental care for dogs. Belgian Malinois are high-energy working dogs. They need a lot of daily activity and a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime and time to run are usually enough, but they will also usually be up for more activity if you are. These dogs are versatile and athletic. Once puppies finish growing and their bones are done developing, you can try a variety of activities with them. Playing frisbee , running, hiking, swimming, and more can all be fun activities to do with your Mal. Fully-grown Belgian Malinois usually stand inches tall and weigh between pounds. Belgian Malinois generally live for years on average. The Belgian Malinois is a world-renowned military service dog. A life-size bronze statue of a Belgian Malinois is featured in the memorial to military dogs in Fayetteville, North Carolina. There are also many dog movies featuring them, like the film Max, which features a great and heart-touching story about a former U. Marine Service Dog. Featured Belgian Malinois Article.

If you are looking to find a German Shepherd breeder in New York that is reliable, this list will start you off with five of the best that can be found in the state. German Shepherds are a prized breed that is known to be hard-working and loyal. All German Shepherds need attentive new owners that can continue training and socialization efforts upon bringing them home. A reputable breeder should always include information about the breed they specialize in. Most will also have an application process or a waiting list that you need to sit on until a litter is born when your name is at the top. Breeders should also have programs for health and genetics. Vaccines and worming should be something offered as well to provide the puppies protection from the moment you take them home. It can be one of the most intelligent, hard-working dogs out there, but also need extra attentiveness. All German Shepherds need extensive socialization and care to become well-tempered and adjusted dogs. German Shepherds can be difficult and stubborn if not trained or socialized properly. They are also very loyal dogs, but only to one person in the family, this makes them seem suspicious or wary to anyone outside the home. Socialization is key to avoiding a lot of the crummy behaviors that can arise in German Shepherds. These breeders are from all around the state of New York and offer up the best quality German Shepherd puppies available. Some of these dogs are bred for show, companion, or work, and each breeder breeds a dog that will serve a purpose in its future family. If you choose to buy a German Shepherd puppy, take a look at these breeders to start. You will also like:. We offer both puppies and adult-trained dogs that will be your new best friend! Our goal is to provide you with an unforgettable experience as a top German Shepherd breeder nearby in New York State. Our GSDs are known for being intelligent, loyal, and balanced. They are also great at obedience training and make wonderful companion animals. You will see our dogs on Instagram around children and adults. The state capital is Albany, but the largest city is New York City, which is home to more than 8 million people. The Brooklyn Bridge connects Manhattan with Brooklyn, another borough with a rich history. Open tennis tournament. Staten Island is home to the Staten Island Ferry, which provides free transportation to and from Manhattan. New York offers a variety of hiking and training for German Shepherds that make the state an ideal location to raise both a family and a German Shepherd puppy. What Sets Us Apart? Regardless of which option you choose, we will work with you to find the perfect GSD for your family. Contact us today to find the perfect German Shepherd for your needs. Visit us on Instagram to see photos and videos of our adult German Shepherds and puppies. All Rights Reserved.

Prevalence: Common Boxers are stocky, muscular and powerful. Males grow to about 25 inches and weigh from about 65 to 80 pounds 30 to 36 kilograms ; females grow from about 21 to 25 inches and weigh from about 50 to 65 pounds 22 to 30 kilograms. Boxers have regal, distinctly shaped square heads. Their jaw is undershot and the muzzle blunt. They have a broad, deep chest and a relatively short, strong back. Boxer's ears fold over naturally, but traditionally, their ears have been cropped to stand erect. Their tails generally are docked and carried high. Their feet are compact and the toes are arched. The boxer's coat is short and sheds moderately. Some boxers are a rich, fawn color and others are brindle. Their face or mask is usually black, but many have white face markings and white on the chest and paws. Personality: Boxers are intelligent, high-energy, playful dogs that like to stay busy. Their temperament reflects their breeding. They prefer to be in the company of their owners and are loyal pets that will fiercely guard their family and home against strangers. Few boxers bark excessively. If a boxer barks, chances are there is a good reason. Many boxers are vocal, however, and make a growling noise that's really just the dog's way of talking. Living With: The boxer has a high need for companionship and exercise. If these needs are not met, boxers can be destructive if left alone in the house. Boxers are ideal for people who want a canine companion with them most of the time or for larger busy families with homes that are often occupied by someone. They can do well on a country estate or in a city apartment as long as they have the opportunity to romp and expel energy. If you live in an urban area, regular walks are necessary. Boxers are intolerant of hot weather, and care must be taken to prevent them from getting overheated. They also need protection from the cold since they are short-coated. Their coats, however, are very easy to care for and will be shiny and bright as long as they have a good diet, are bathed occasionally, and are given regular rub-downs with a grooming mitt or brushings with a rubber curry. Some boxers drool excessively, and some snort and snore. Like other larger dogs, boxers are not particularly long-lived. Their life expectancy ranges from about seven to 10 years. History: Boxers are descendants of extinct bullenbaiser breeds crossed with mastiff, bulldog and possibly Great Dane and even a terrier. They were developed in Germany in the 19th century, initially as bull baiting dogs and later as butcher's helpers, controlling cattle in slaughterhouses. Some breed historians say boxers are named from the German word boxl, their slaughterhouse designation. Other fanciers contend the name boxer comes from the characteristic way that they use their forepaws to play, sparring much like a human boxer. After the breed rose to become among the most popular in America. Boxers are considered working dogs. They were one of the first breeds employed as a police dog, and they have been used as seeing-eye dogs. But they are also bred to be companion and guard dogs, perhaps best known for being loyal family pets that are especially fond of children. Related Pet Care Articles. Petey Donor Spotlight: Doreen Murotsune For many of us who give our hearts, time, or dollars to rescue, we are first inspired by the love of a single special dog. Hana belonged to friends of Doreen, but Doreen and her boxer, Benjamin, fell in love with her. Benjamin and Hana were best friends, and Benjamin was always on the lookout for Hana and ready to protect her from any yappy Chihuahua who tried to intimidate her. In addition to being an active Strut Your Mutt teammate for each of the past 5 years, Doreen browses the boxers in our care and sponsors many dogs whose stories warm her heart. She not only sponsors dogs with single or repeat financial gifts, but also inquires about dogs with prescription diet needs and then purchases those diets on an autoship schedule, having the food mailed directly to foster homes. Planned Giving If you have ever loved a dog, you know that — while their lives are short in comparison to ours — the love you share is timeless. By including NorCal Boxer Rescue in your Will or Trust or naming the organization as a beneficiary on certain accounts, you ensure that for years to come, NCBR is able to continue rescuing boxers, providing them the care they need, and uniting them with families who will love them forever. Dogs are an incredibly important part of our lives. You can make them a part of your heritage. Click here to learn about the different options. Growing Old with You We know that the best place for an old dog is home with loved ones. Click here to find out more about the Growing Old with You program. Grey Muzzle Thank You! We are so honored to be a Grey Muzzle Organization grantee again this year! We know that many of you have a soft spot for frosted faces, but that the cost of caring for a senior boxer has given you pause when it comes to adopting one. We hope that this support will give you the security you need to give your heart away to a beautiful older soul. Thank you, Grey Muzzle, for trusting in us and for supporting our efforts! We are grateful for your partnership! Thank you, Hoven Foundation. Each dog who enters our lives is a gift. They bring us untold joy and share with us their unconditional love. They teach us to be better people. For nearly 10 years, The Hoven Foundation has not only appreciated the gift that each dog represents, but they have given back generously. The continued support of the Hoven Foundation has meant the difference between life and death for countless beautiful souls. Thank you to the Hoven Foundation for what you give to our dogs and, in turn, to all those whose lives those dogs touch. Join Our Mailing List! NCBR is a c 3 nonprofit and donations are tax deductible. We now accept vehicle donations! Donate your car, boat, RV, motorcycle or farm equipment. Plus you get a tax deduction! Call RIDE to donate or learn more. Upcoming Events.

We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. As a dedicated Labrador parent, one of your primary responsibilities is ensuring your pup remains healthy and achieves all growth milestones based on his age. However, some of the most overwhelming factors to crack through are size and weight. So, is your Lab puppy too small for his age? Your Lab puppy might be too small if it weighs less than 12 lbs 5. Lab puppies generally weigh about 2 lbs 1 kg with every week of growth. If your puppy weighs a lot less than that, he may be too small for his age. If you're worried that your pup might be too small for his age, you're in the right place. In this article, I'll outline Lab puppies' size and weight facts to help you understand where your young canine friend stands. Keep reading! In this article How Much a Lab Puppy Should Weigh This is one of the most common concerns and one of the most challenging to address directly. This is because a puppy's weight and size may differ based on his gender, genetic composition, or underlying conditions. However, there's a trick that may help you determine your pup's weight range. In most cases, average puppies add about 2 lbs 1 kg with every week of growth. And just like the weight, Lab puppies have different sizes. You may notice a huge size variance in a litter of Lab puppies. Some may appear too big or too small for their age. Below are 3 factors that can affect a Lab puppy's size and weight. Genetic May Affect Size A canine's size is partially genetic. Therefore, a Lab puppy born of small parents may inherit the genes and appear smaller for his age. However, this isn't always the case because some small-parents puppies sometimes grow into huge dogs. So, it's possible to note a considerable size variance on puppies from the same litter. Diet Greatly Influences Weight A puppy's diet also has a lot to do with his size and weight. Poorly fed puppies may fail to grow properly. Thus they may be low in weight and small in size. When feeding puppies, it isn't always about the amount of food the pup consumes but rather the nutritional value. So, to be on the safe side, it's advisable to consult your vet on the right foods for your pup based on his age. Health Problems Can Inhibit Growth Puppies that have been ill or have underlying conditions may portray slow growth. Their size and weight may be small compared to healthy pups within the same age limit. However, you shouldn't worry about this because such puppies often catch up later after recovery. Note that this chart only gives a weight limit, and it doesn't mean your puppy should weigh precisely that. It's only meant to help you protect your pup's weight and easily point out when he's seriously under or overweight. All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. When do labs Stop Growing? Labs need to fill out more than smaller breeds as they are medium to large-sized dogs. Usually, an average Lab will be at full height and weight by their first birthday. Is Your Labrador Retriever Healthy? Labrador Retrievers are the perfect family pet. Not only are Labs wonderful companions, but their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and love for life make them ideal members of any household. The best way to guarantee that happiness? Preventative care! This condition can cause pain and make it difficult for your pup to move freely. Due to CHD, they may also develop arthritis in the hip area as they age. Some dogs with CHD have normal hips as puppies, but they can develop joint instability later in life. Unfortunately, CHD affects medium to large dog breeds, with the Lab amongst those dogs with a higher chance of developing this condition. Recognizing the early signs of this progressive disease will help you get treatment for your dog so he has an active life filled with joy instead of pain or discomfort. An old Labrador Retriever is especially prone to developing this disease. Osteoarthritis, or Degenerative Joint Disease DJD , is a progressive inflammation of the joints caused by deterioration and breakdown in cartilage. This action leads to an increase in friction, which causes significant pain for dogs. In cases of osteoarthritis, this cartilage cushion begins to break down because of factors such as age or injury. If a dog has canine atopic dermatitis, the immune system reacts too strongly to common environmental allergens absorbed through the skin, such as mold spores and grass. A dog with atopic dermatitis will typically show signs and symptoms between 3 months to 6 years of age. Labrador Retrievers are amongst the most common dog breeds to develop food and skin allergies. Gastric Distention and Volvulus Bloat Canine bloat , or gastric distention and volvulus GDV , is a condition where the stomach swells abnormally. Bloat is a serious condition that requires immediate emergency care. Dogs of all shapes and sizes can bloat, but some breeds are more susceptible than others. Unfortunately, Labradors are at the top of the list for susceptibility to this condition. The causes of bloat in Labs and other dogs are unknown, but there is likely a genetic element. Dogs who recover from bloating should never be used as breeding stock again. Got a Lab? Get Pet Insurance Coverage You love your dog like a child, but you cannot control what your puppy is dealt with in the genetics department. Health struggles can affect your Labrador Retriever, and his genes will determine what medical conditions or diseases he develops. What if cancer happens? What else might go wrong with your dog in an emergency that will require immediate attention? As a dog owner, you want to make sure that your Lab pup has the best chance possible at living a healthy and happy life. A pet insurance policy will handle any medical issue or expense which may come your way, which is a significant help, especially with how expensive veterinary bills can get. Get insurance quotes today and see for yourself how much better life will be with this coverage. Can you tell how big a puppy will get? Your puppy will be growing very fast when you first bring them home. But that growth rate slows down quite quickly. So when do dogs stop growing for good? And how will you know when your puppy has reached their adult size? Labrador Puppy Growth Chart We have a fascinating and long running thread on our forum, where members enter the weights of their puppies at different ages. The Labrador growth chart below shows the data we have collected, in a Labrador weight chart by age. Labrador dog weight chart by age and breed Each dot represents a snapshot in time of an individual puppy. You can find his or her age in weeks along the bottom of the chart and his weight in pounds up the left hand side. You can see how all the dots taken together follow a pattern, but there is still a considerable range of puppy weights at each age. When Do Dogs Stop Growing? But what about a two year old Lab, or a one year old? Well, in broad terms, dogs stop growing sometime between one and two years old. But it varies between breeds. Most dogs are fully grown by their first birthday. In general small breeds reach their adult height several months before large breeds do. Yet dog size varies greatly among individuals, even within the same breed. Larger dogs are often slower to mature than little dogs, and carry on growing for longer. Small dogs are sometimes fully grown by the time they are 9 months old. Whereas giant breeds can take up to three years to reach full size. Adult size, temperament, and coat type are all likely to affect energy requirements, and affect the rate a puppy grows. In fact even breeds which end up similar in size can grow at very different rates. There is very little scientific research — but a lot of anecdotal evidence — about when Lab puppies stop growing. In , a UK study following 37 Lab puppies through to adulthood revealed that all of them had reached their adult weight by their first birthday. But more recently, a much larger lifestyle study of over 4, UK Labradors found that their weight continued to increase between one and four years old. When Do Labs Stop Growing? The Labrador puppy growth chart finishes when the dog reaches adulthood. General wisdom from breeders, vets, and experiences Labrador owners is that Labs stop growing during their second year. In fact, he will be quite close to his final adult Labrador height at around nine months of age. Does color change the Labrador puppy growth chart? When is a chocolate Lab full grown? Is it the same time that a full grown black Labrador or yellow Lab? So your average chocolate Lab will be adult sizes at the same time as the average yellow or black Lab. How Quickly Do Labradors Grow? Our Labrador puppy growth chart shows that all Labrador puppies follow the same breed specific pattern of growth spurts and slower growth, even though the actual numbers on the scale will vary from individual to individual. The most rapid period of growth will take place in the first month or so after you bring him home. In , a study of Labrador puppies in Norway found that Labrador weight gain is most rapid at 89 days old in females, and 95 days old in males. So around the week mark. And Labradors usually reach half of their adult weight by the time they are 18 or 19 weeks old. How much do Labs grow after 6 months? Another trend you can see in our Labrador puppy growth chart is that Lab puppies gain weight much less rapidly after their 6 month birthday. Once your Lab has hit this milestone you can expect them to gain a little height, and probably continue to fill out for up to a year or so. In other words, the point when you Lab stops getting any taller. It is estimated that in the UK the average height at the shoulders of a male Lab is cm taller than the breed standard. Will my dog still grow after being neutered? Whether or not dogs should be routinely spayed or neutered is a subject which divides opinion. Labrador owners deciding whether and when to neuter usually end up with a lot of questions, few of which have straightforward answers. Many veterinary care providers and shelters advocate neutering at a young age, or even make it a requirement of the adoption contract. A study found that neutering before 37 weeks old is linked to very slightly more rapid growth, and neutering after 37 weeks leads to very slightly slower growth. How big do Labrador Retrievers get? As we all know, very few dogs fit the mathematical average — they are much more likely to occupy a range of normal sizes. But most of us like a more precise answer than that before we commit to sharing our home with a puppy. So, how big do Labs get? Labradors are remarkably variable in height and weight. The biggest male Labs can be almost twice the size of the smallest female ones. But you want me to give you some numbers, so here are some averages. Many adult female Labradors reach a weight of lbs and stand inches high at the shoulder. This will be the same whether they are a female chocolate Lab or a female black Labrador. Many adult male Labradors reach a weight of lbs and stand inches at the shoulder. But remember, your dog is probably not an average dog! Can you always predict size with a Labrador puppy growth chart? These Labrador height and weight numbers are very broad guidelines, and they may give you a rough idea of how big a pup will grow. How big your Labrador will get depends partly on his parents. Assuming that your puppy had healthy not overweight parents, their own weights will give you an idea of how big your Lab is likely to grow. But there are always surprises in any group or family of dogs! Has your puppy stalled on the Labrador puppy growth chart? It is possible that your puppy will weigh less than the average examples. Labrador puppy weight and size can vary widely depending on a number of different factors, many of which are normal and harmless. American Labrador puppy growth Labrador puppies from working stock are often less heavy than those bred for the show ring or pet homes. Dogs bred for hunting and field trials tend to be faster and lighter in build because they are expected to be agile and quick when working in the field. Small parents Size is also partly genetic. In other words, if your puppy had small parents he might well be on the small size for his age, throughout his life. Again, this is only a general guide. Even puppies from the same litter can vary quite considerably in size when plotted on a Labrador puppy growth chart. How much should my Labrador puppy weigh? But this kind of rule of thumb is of limited use, and there are problems with judging whether or not a puppy is thriving by his weight alone. Because it is so difficult to know exactly what size your puppy will be as an adult, no-one can really say what he should weigh today, or any other day. It may however give you an indication if your puppy is seriously under or overweight. It is rare for puppies to have any kind of growth disorder. Or for their families to starve them by mistake! But it is also normal to worry a little if your puppy seems on the small side. Is my puppy is too fat or too thin? The very best guide to whether a puppy is the right weight for him, is how he looks and feels. Not where he falls on an average Labrador puppy growth chart. Physically examining and observing your puppy will help you decide if they are doing ok in this respect. Just like older Labradors, puppies should not be too heavy. Most experts nowadays like to see a waist on even quite young puppies. Does it matter if my puppy is a bit plump? We all used to think that puppy fat was a good thing. When I was a child fat puppies were the norm. Perhaps this extra layer of fat was helpful in sustaining the puppy during illness before vaccinations were widely available for dogs? Nowadays, the thinking is that puppies should be slim. With a defined waist, just like an older dog. It causes their bones to grow too rapidly as well. And this may result in painful skeletal abnormalities in later life. Chubby Lab puppies might be plotted higher than average on the Labrador puppy growth chart, but if they are a shorter stature they could be following the line. You need to assess your pup by how they look and feel. Weighing your puppy If your puppy has been ill and is very thin, or if he has become rather overweight , you might consider weighing him in order to monitor his progress on a Labrador puppy growth chart of your own. If you can see his ribs, or feel them very easily just beneath his skin, your Labrador puppy is too thin. If in doubt, check with your veterinarian. You can show them your Labrador puppy growth chart too, so they have a good idea of how they are progressing. My dog weighs 35lbs at six months old. Is that OK? I mentioned above that an average Labrador might weigh around 50lbs at six months old. But there is huge variation around this figure. To illustrate how much very healthy puppies may vary, there are 6 month old Labs on our forum weighing 30lbs, and others weighing 60lbs! These are very different points on the same Labrador puppy growth chart, but could both be healthy animals. And the truth is, no-one can tell you exactly what your six month old pup should weigh, or indeed your Labrador of any age. What age does a puppy turn into a dog? When does a puppy no longer belong on a Labrador puppy growth chart but instead have reached their adult size? And when will your puppy be a fully grown up dog? There are three aspects to changing from puppy to dog: physical maturity and mental maturity. Sexual maturity in puppies People are often surprised to discover that puppies become sexually mature before they are full grown. These sexually mature pups still belong on the Labrador puppy growth chart, and will gain weight and height. Most Labradors are physically capable of breeding while still puppies. Though of course they should not be allowed to do so. Many female Labradors come into season for the first time between at between six and nine months old. Though some will be over a year old. And most male Labradors are ready and willing to mate well before their first birthday! Mental maturity in puppies Not only is your Labrador physically still a puppy when he or she reaches sexual maturity. He is also very much a puppy mentally and emotionally. In fact, many experts do not consider a Labrador to be fully grown up and mature until they are around two years old. In practice, there is no exact age at which you can definitely say your puppy is a grown up. Some puppies mature mentally and physically quicker than others. As a broad guide, you will often hear people use 18 months as the divide between Labrador puppy and adult dog. When do dogs stop growing? Most Labradors will have completed much of their growth by their first birthday and will stop growing completely before their second. Beyond this point there is no need to plot their weight on a Labrador puppy growth chart, but instead they should just be monitored physically. Weights vary greatly among individuals of this breed and puppy weight unless very extreme, is not a great guide to health. Enjoy your puppy for what he is, large Labrador or small. Just remember to check with your vet if you think he is unwell or not growing as he should. Is your Labrador puppy still growing? Do you think the runt of the litter is going to surprise you by reaching the upper end of the scale? Were your predictions at X months completely confounded? Share your anecdotes in the comments box down below! Between 8 weeks and 10 months, your puppy has a ton of growing to do, and they change drastically from month to month. Each stage of growth requires specific attention, exercise, and diet, so there is much to learn and pay attention to these different growth stages. There may be behavioral challenges while your pup adjusts to their new life without their mother and siblings. This period of adjustment can sometimes lead to fearful and timid behavior, and your puppy will need as much attention and affection as possible. They should be eating 3—4 small meals a day at this stage. You can begin basic command, leash, and potty training at this point too. Although the schedule is not complete this is a critical period to begin socialization and making sure they are calm and friendly with other dogs, just make sure they are also vaccinated. We highly recommend making training a part of their daily activities at this age. Biting can be an issue at this stage too, as they will begin teething, and they will start exploring and chewing whatever they can find. Chew toys and consistent command reinforcement are both vital for avoiding this behavior. The good news is that your puppy will grow out of this habit at around 6 months old. Your lab should also be house-trained by this point, but there may still be the occasional accident. Remember to be gentle but firm when this happens, and your pooch will likely move through it swiftly. They will begin losing their baby teeth at this point, and biting and chewing may reach its peak. Firm but gentle commands, chew toys, and loads of patience are essential at this stage. Your puppy will be testing the limits and may start showing dominance, ignoring known commands, and asserting more independence. You can now drop their meals down to two meals per day, but be sure that they are not eating too quickly. Your puppy will start to closely resemble an adult at 6 months, but remember that mentally, they are still puppies and will need loads of direction and training. Females may enter their first heat at 6—7 months, so keep a careful watch for stray males. They will still display puppy tendencies and traits and have a ton of excitable energy, but they should be fairly obedient and well-trained by this stage. Be sure to give your Labrador plenty of exercise at this stage to help keep them from misbehavior. They will have reached their full height by now but may still gain weight and muscle mass in the coming months. Unless you intend on breeding, you should consider neutering and spaying your puppy to avoid wandering and unwanted pregnancies. While some breeders recommend that you wait until a year old, this is a perfectly suitable time to perform the procedure. They may still gain weight and muscle mass but much slower than during the past few months. They will still display puppy characteristics and even test boundaries, but all in all, they should be obedient and well-trained by now. They will have a ton of energy and still enjoy playtimes and loads of exercise. While they are at their full height at this age, some Labs may appear lanky and still have weight to fill out in the coming months. When Do Labradors Stop Growing? All dogs are unique, and the question of when they stop growing is largely dependent on the individual. Anecdotally, your Lab should have reached their full weight by 18 months and full height by 9—12 months. Most breeders agree that your Lab will stop growing at some point during their second year. Even so, any weight gain during their second year will be minimal, and they will have done the majority of their growth by their first birthday. Mentally, they are out of the puppyhood phase of testing boundaries and disobedience by their first year— if correctly trained. If you have been consistent in training thus far, your Lab should be friendly, obedient, and well-behaved from their first birthday and into adulthood. In males, neutering can sometimes result in a calmer, more relaxed dog, and this, in turn, will slow down his need for exercise and may result in weight gain. A study in showed that dogs neutered before 37 weeks may gain more weight, while dogs that had the procedure after 37 weeks had a slower growth trajectory. The difference was minimal, though, and there is no reason to assume that these procedures have much of an effect on growth rates in dogs. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth While some puppies may grow quicker or slower than the agreed-upon average, this is usually nothing to be concerned about due to the individual and unique nature of dogs. However, if your pooch is gaining weight rapidly or not gaining enough, there may be deeper issues to look into. If your dog is from working or hunting stock, they may be smaller than average Labs and are usually lighter for work in the field. Size may also be genetic, and if your Lab comes from small parents, they will be smaller than average. The same may be true of heavier-than-average Labs—if their parents are large, they will likely be similar in size. However, larger-than-average weights may also be due to overfeeding or a lack of exercise , or a combination of both, so be sure to keep their exercise and feeding habits consistent. Image Credit: rebeccaashworth, Shutterstock Growth Distinctions of Different Labradors Although they are designated under the same breed, there are two different types of common Labradors: English and American. English Labradors tend to be stockier and more muscular than their American counterparts and have a thick, waterproof coat , while American Labs have a slender build with a slightly finer coat. English Labs are slightly shorter, topping out at around 22 inches, but their stocky and muscular build often makes them heavier than American Labs. In fact, English Labs have been known to weigh up to 20 pounds more than American Labs without being considered overweight. American Labs are known to be slightly more active and energetic than English Labs, while English Labs tend to be less excitable and more laid back. English Labs are by no means lazy, though, and they still have plenty of energy and stamina to go around. Conclusion: Monthly Labrador Growth Pictures Hopefully, this guide has helped you understand the growth rate of your Labrador puppy and given you a better idea of what to expect during the different stages. See also:. Labrador puppy weight. It can be hard to know what the right weight is for your specific pup. An American Lab is likely to weigh less than an English Lab in general, but not always! How much do Labs weigh in general? Male Labradors weigh between 60lbs and 80lbs, while females weigh in at between 55lbs and 75lbs. But many healthy Labradors fall outside these averages. As you can see, there is quite a range! Labrador Puppy Weight Lots of our readers want to know how much should my Labrador weigh at this age or that age. Labrador puppies are growing fast, and their weight is constantly changing. We used the data from our forum to create the Lab weight chart below. If you want a rough idea of how much your pup should weigh at different stages of their young life, just compare them to this chart and see how they match up. But remember, average Labrador weight is not totally straight forward… Average Labrador Weight Labradors come in a wide variety of sizes. So average Labrador Retriever weight figures can be misleading. As a very rough guide an adult female Labrador might weigh between 55 and 70lbs. An adult male Lab will weigh 65 — 80lbs. Female Lab weight will on average be lower than male Lab weight, but as you can see there is a considerable cross over. But Labradors also come in a couple of different types, and his type will have an impact upon his ideal Labrador weight. English Labs bred from show lines are likely to be at the upper end of the scale. You can expect English Lab weight to be around 60 — 70 lbs for a female and 70 — 80 lbs for a male. Some of our chunkier, show bred Labs can be a good twenty pounds or more heavier than their field bred cousins, without necessarily being overweight. Whereas the American Lab who is field bred is likely to be at the lower end of average. Volume for volume, muscle weighs more. So it is worth bearing in mind, that a very fit dog will have more muscle and may weigh more than an unfit dog of similar dimensions. Black Lab Weight In theory there should be no difference in weight between Labradors of different colors. Black Labrador weight for an English black Lab will probably be at the higher end of the range, for an American black Lab it will likely be lower. Black Labs are frequently found in both these categories, but some Lab colors differ. For example the chocolates. Chocolate Lab Weight Chocolate Labs are more likely to be show bred than field bred. English Labs weigh more than American Labs in general, and may therefore be at the higher end of average when it comes to weight. This is because yellow Labs are commonly found in both categories. White Labs are more likely to be English Labs, and will therefore probably be at the heavier end of the scale. Fox red Labs are normally American Labs, and will often be thinner in build and therefore lighter in weight. The way to effectively judge whether your Lab is at an ideal weight is not through the scales. It is by feel and appearance. You should not be able to see ribs, but if you press firmly along his sides you should just be able to feel your fingers bumping along them. But in most cases it really is not necessary to weigh your puppy every day, or even every week! Any more than you would weigh your three year old child on a daily or even weekly basis. There are however, some exceptions. Very thin puppies Occasionally we have people post up about puppies that are desperately underweight and clearly failing to thrive. Most of these comments come from people that have purchased puppies that are not ready to leave their mothers, and should not have been sold by the breeder. Some of these puppies are as young as three weeks old. If you have inadvertently been sucked into this horrible trade in underage puppies, do contact a vet for help with feeding your puppy, as a matter of urgency. If you are concerned that your puppy might be seriously underweight, again, your vet is the first port of call. As a very rough guide, many Labrador puppies will weigh around a kilo for every week of their lives. So you would expect a ten week puppy to weigh something in the region of ten kilos or around twenty-two pounds. A twenty percent variation around this would be fairly normal. If your puppy falls outside this variation he may still be perfectly healthy, but if you are inexperienced, a check with the vet is a good way to put your mind at rest. Should I Weigh My Dog? You may need to weigh your dog if he needs medical treatment. Determining the appropriate dose of some drugs requires that we know the exact weight of the patient. But in this case your veterinarian will probably do it for you at their check-ups and assessments. The main reasons to weigh a dog are loss or gain. Trying to put weight on a very thin puppy? You may want to check your progress with regular weigh-ins for a while to make sure they are sufficiently gaining weight. Trying to help your adult Labrador weight decrease? Checking their weight each week will help you to know that you are succeeding, along with visual checks. How to weigh a dog If you need to weigh a puppy, and he is small enough to hold in your arms, you can do this at home. Just weigh yourself on the bathroom scales without him, then weigh yourself again whilst holding the dog, and subtract the first weight from the second. This is accurate enough for most purposes. Larger dogs will need to be weighed on purpose built scales. Most vet surgeries have one in the waiting room, and some pet stores have them too. Really tiny dogs can be weighed accurately on a good sized set of kitchen scales. For once, this is a situation where appearances really do count. Try to get into the habit of looking at your dog objectively and of avoiding comparing with other dogs, many of whom will be overweight. You may find that some other dog owners will tell you your nice slim Labrador is actually too thin. This happens a lot, largely because people are simply getting used to so many dogs being overweight, including some of those receiving the highest accolades in our show rings. Again, if you are worried, check with your vet, but the chances are if someone is telling you this that actually your dog is healthy, and it is really their dog who is overweight.

Cart Puppy Food! Nutrition is incredibly important for our puppies, and we want to make sure that we are in compliance with current, science-based recommendations. The highly digestible puppy food formula allows for optimal nutrition delivery, and contains no artificial colors or flavors to meet your high standards. Plus, the tempting pieces of hard kibble and tender shreds in this chicken and rice dog food are sized appropriately for young puppy mouths and teeth. DHA from omega-rich fish oil nourishes brain and vision development, and the antioxidant-rich formula supports the developing immune system. This puppy food is fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health, while phosphorus, calcium and other minerals build strong teeth and bones to help your puppy grow up big and strong. Specially designed for puppies under one year and with so much packed into every bite, this Purina Pro Plan Brand Dog Food Puppy Shredded Blend Chicken and Rice Formula dry puppy food lets you feel good about the food you serve your puppy, and your puppy will love the flavors in every bite. Key Benefits Crunchy kibble mixed with tender meaty shreds creates a unique texture and taste dogs naturally crave. DHA from omega-rich fish oil helps nourish brain and vision development. Antioxidants help support your puppy's developing immune system. Contains calcium, phosphorus and other minerals to help build strong teeth and bones. Made with high-quality protein, including real chicken as the 1 ingredient for healthy muscles. Where to Buy. Comes in two flavors salmon and lamb. The food has a strong smell. Natural prebiotic fiber will help with digestive health. As an active breed, Goldendoodles require dog food that is high in protein and fat. The right diet will help your Goldendoodle have the energy he or she needs to stay energetic and healthy. Health Issues in Your Goldendoodle It is common for crossbred dogs to have some health problems. Some of the most common health problems of Goldendoodles are hip problems, eye conditions including cataracts and glaucoma , ear infections and skin conditions. Health conditions are influenced by lineage. Many dog food companies put fillers in their food that are not necessary and sometimes not good for your Goldendoodle. Protein, in the form of meat or plant, helps your dog stay strong and have the energy to get the recommended exercise needed. Your Goldendoodle is not trying to fit into a special pair of jeans, so while you may be on a low-fat diet, your Goldendoodle should not. Fats from canola oil, animal fat, and omega-3 fatty acids are good types of fat for Goldendoodles. Too many carbohydrates could lead to issues with blood sugar levels. Also, grains can cause stomach irritation for your Goldendoodle, so you may want to talk to your veterinarian about a grain-free diet for your Goldendoodle. Good alternatives to grain are barley and oats Vegetables and Fruit provide Goldendoodles with the vitamins and minerals they need for digestive and immune system health. Fiber is important for digestive health, including keeping dogs regular and obstruction-free, so it should be included in your Goldendoodles diet. Calcium is important for puppies for bone development. It is also important for older Goldendoodles to avoid orthopedic problems. Your Goldendoodles food should contain the appropriate levels of calcium to promote bone health. Allergies Your Goldendoodle May Have Goldendoodles are a healthy breed, but they do have the potential to have allergies or foods that can cause digestive discomfort. Common allergies to look out for are allergies to corn, wheat, dairy, soy, and artificial colors and preservatives. If your dog is acting sluggish, not eating its food, or is throwing up , you should ask your veterinarian about whether it could be the food that is causing the problem. There are also various state regulations for dog food. Food producers can choose to adhere to the more stringent standards for pet food that this organization publishes. State laws and regulations often reference to the AAFCO Official Publication as part of the nutritional adequacy labeling for pet foods. Dry Food vs. Dry dog food is good for dental health because it keeps tartar and bacteria off teeth and gums. Puppies and older dogs often fair better with wet food. Puppies may prefer wet food while their teeth are coming in. Older dogs with dental issues may have an easier time eating wet dog food. Goldendoodles are not the only dog breed with specific food needs. The other day I was texting with Zach Reed over at Great Dane Care and he mentioned he had put together an extensive food guide. I thought he covered a lot of popular details and I thought you may enjoy reading it too. Transitioning Your Goldendoodle to a New Diet If you find that the food your Goldendoodle is eating is not a good fit, you should consult your veterinarian to figure out exactly why your Goldendoodle is not thriving on the food you have bought. It is important to figure out if it is a specific ingredient or allergy that is problematic. Making a diet change may be necessary. If you are changing to a new brand of food, be sure to do it gradually. At the beginning of a new diet, you should monitor your Goldendoodle to see how he or she reacts to the new food. This human-grade food is ready to serve and packaged in separate portions so that you can open and feed your dog. Generally, the best dog food for Goldendoodles includes medium and large breed formulas and dog food designed for a Golden Retriever. Your Dog Goldendoodles generally adjust well to a variety of dry and wet food products. Since they are very active, a reliable source of high-quality protein, fatty acids, fiber, and nutrients is vital for early development and adult health. The best dog food for Goldendoodles offers a rich blend of protein, either from a single or multiple sources, antioxidants, fiber, and omega fatty acids. Goldendoodles can eat a variety of human foods safely, similar to other dogs, though this breed may experience a sensitive stomach, which should be considered. The best human-grade foods for your Goldendoodle include sweet potato, bananas, blueberries, apples, apricots, watermelon, cantaloupe, asparagus, broccoli, carrots, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussel sprouts, bell peppers, and cooked meats, such as lamb, poultry, and beef. Can Goldendoodles eat dairy? Yes, in small amounts, dairy is healthy for dogs. How can I feed my Goldendoodle if they are a picky eater? If you have a senior dog, they may also require a milder formula low in fat and high in omega fatty acids. Which foods should I avoid feeding my Goldendoodle? The operator of this website received a small commission if you purchase products through these links, HOWEVER, there is no added cost to you. These commissions help to fund the operation of this FurryFriendsGear.

July 13, This post may contain affiliate links. Read more here. After all, the high heritability of health crises such as hip dysplasia in GSDs has been studied for decades already. Sloped or roach-back German Shepherds are not the only back type. On the contrary, it was bred after the original breed type was established in the early s. Sloped back German Shepherds were promoted by influential breeders. Some people fell in love with the posture and gait that the German Shepherd with the curved back has. However, the real question is whether or not you should fall in love with the curved back. Furthermore, the new back type was even harmful to the breed. Many loved the new gait in the show ring as well as the overall look of the German Shepherd roach back and the unnatural stance the dog now took due to the lowered hind legs. German Shepherds with straight backs are the original breed type. Their back forms a straight line. This appearance resembles the wolf. The German Shepherd with a straight back is usually considered superior to the sloped back type as it affects their posture and movement. Health benefits. German Shepherds were bred with straight backs to be active, agile, and healthy helpers on farms and for various other activities. Sadly, this changed when the new version was introduced because the sloped back German Shepherd is much more prone to joint issues, hip dysplasia, and many more health issues related to the unnatural back. Adding to that, Max von Stephanitz who was the grandfather of the breed heavily advocated for the straight back when he created the breed. Animal rescues, dog breed experts, and vets around the world prefer the straight back for just these health reasons. For many years the British KC is debating the soundness of this development and their position is as follows: The Kennel Club remains in no doubt that currently, the single biggest threat to the reputation and interest of the breed is the lack of soundness in hindquarters. Why is it that many people make this a political thing though? The owner stated on social media that she felt like this was directed against her. Amidst all her confusion on why people were being so mean, she seemingly lost sight of the issue at hand which is the sloped or roach back of her dog. So, does a sloped back Shepherd always suffer joint diseases? Definitely not. Will a straight back always be free from any hip or joint issues? Does that mean you should take on the risk of an unnatural gait just because you like the look? This is especially problematic since German Shepherds mixes are widely spread to give them the seemingly best of both worlds. Breeding with generally healthy breeds like the Husky may result in bad hips nonetheless. For American buyers, it might be a tad more difficult since the trend in AKC show lines strongly leans towards the sloping back. German working lines are not free from hip issues though. Time and time again, I witness responsible breeders that turn their back on the German Shepherd breed due to the community that steers it in the wrong direction. Performing a job. Last but not least, I find the sentiment that the sloped back looks superior questionable. In my personal opinion, a weird stance and gait are not at all desirable. Study References:. August 29, Joints and cartilage distress Since their hips and knees are closer to the ground, they need to stretch back more when walking or running. They also tend to use their hocks for standing and walking. These cause their gait to be irregular and may cause more joint and cartilage distress, fatigue, and lower back pain than straight back GSDs. But having bent legs, sloped backs have become very susceptible to Hip Dysplasia. This disease is irreversible and in some severe cases, hip replacement is recommended. Osteoarthritis Although most senior dogs are affected by osteoarthritis, GSDs with sloped back tend to have an earlier onset. Moreover, it will greatly affect the quality of their life. Breeders who believe in the legacy of Max Von Stephanitz that GSDs should be bred for working, have kept his advocacies. They are more focused on their tasks and more intense in carrying them out. Most police and military GSDs are straight backs with short hair. They have long hair which gives them a unique look but rather made them unacceptable for a long time. Despite the long hair, their straight backs and sturdy appearance make them ideal for working and as a pet. They are larger than modern GSDs and have thicker bones. They are much taller, with bigger heads and deeper chests. See also German Shepherd Police Dogs Conclusion Amid the controversy surrounding the sloped back GSDs, one should never forget that the welfare of this dog breed is what counts the most. Choosing between a sloped back and a straight back GSD will always depend on the needs and capabilities of the would-be pet owner. 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. My name is Mitzi Michelle Brooks. I have had dogs all my life and German Shepherds most of that time. I have tried different breeds, but always come back to what I know and love. The German Shepherd Dog is the right fit for me. I breed large, old-fashioned, straight-backed, German Shepherds with a special focus on health and temperament. I am a very small breeder, all my dogs live with me, in the house. They are first, and foremost, my beloved pets. In my litters, I concentrate on the things that matter most to me: Health and Temperament. My dogs are all larger than the breed standard but with no compromise to their health. All my dogs are medium to low energy, making them easy to train and ideally suited for families. I do not breed: dogs that are hyper, dogs that show any signs of aggression, working dogs, high drive dogs, or dogs with excessive angulation. Puppies are born and raised in my home! That means your puppy goes home with you already socialized with other dogs, with cats, and familiar with all the sights and sounds of a normal home. All puppies are also current on vaccinations and on a set deworming schedule. The puppies bred here are sold as companions and pets. Just as working dogs are bred to work, my puppies are bred to live in and be a part of a family. With their low to low-medium drive, my pups are very easy for their new parents to train and still possess that famous German Shepherd instinct to protect their home and their family. These soft temperaments mean that my dogs are happy to go out and play, but just as happy to come in, lay at your feet, and interact with their family. Where did the sloped back come from, then? Instead, they were bred to win competitions. Therefore, the breeders did not need to worry about practical considerations quite as much. As the show dogs were no longer bred with these practical considerations in mind, the breed standard slowly shifted from a normal rectangular shape to one that looked more like a triangle. However, that is the way the breed standard has been moving for decades. Many breeders are now producing dogs with very sloped backs. The sloped-back German Shepherd is largely the result of a very small number of influential breeders. Once these few breeders started breeding dogs with more sloped backs, dogs with bigger slopes began appearing in competitions. It became weird for German Shepherds to have straight backs in the show ring. There is little reason for this trait to exist except that someone simply decided that it should. It is simply a trait that has come to be expected in show German Shepherds. Strangely, the German Shepherd standard states that they should have a straight back without any sag. Still, these dogs have been winning competitions recently, which should give you an idea of where this breed standard is going. Luckily, not all breeders follow the breed standard, especially if their goal is to produce working dogs. The straight back will likely continue in working-breed lines, as it is necessary for the German Shepherd to perform its best. They are still prone to all the health conditions we previously discussed for straight-backed dogs. The health problems we discuss in this section are simply extra that they are also prone to. One study found that there is a significant health problem with the way these dogs are currently being bred and advised that the breed be watched in the future to prevent further complications from arising. This is quite easy to visualize. When they are lower to the ground, they have to move more to achieve the same stride. This can cause excess wear and tear since the hips are moving more than they would normally. Over time, this can cause arthritis-like symptoms. Many dogs with extremely sloped backs also use their hocks for walking. This behavior makes their gait irregular, which can cause more wear and tear. It can also make the dog expend too much energy when they are walking, causing fatigue. The weird angle can also cause lower back pain. As mentioned, hip dysplasia can occur in straight-backed German Shepherds as well. In fact, it is quite common in dogs with straight backs. However, those with angled backs are even more prone to having hip dysplasia. This disease can be very costly, so we recommend keeping this in mind when adopting a dog. If your dog needs surgery on both hips, then you could be spending thousands. Because of their sloped back, these dogs are prone to osteoarthritis. Many older dogs experience this problem, but it is likely that dogs with sloped backs will experience more arthritis symptoms and get it at a younger age. Overall, because these dogs are bred for show purposes, they tend to be less healthy than the straight-backed German Shepherd. You want them to work for as many years as possible. However, dogs that have health problems can still be shown and win competitions. Suitable For: There is very little reason why anyone looking for a companion animal should purchase dogs with a sloped back. They tend to have more health problems, are more expensive, and have lower endurance. They are sub-par in practically every stance, except when it comes to showing them. Over the past few years, these dogs have been winning many dog shows. Therefore, those who show their dogs have been eager to purchase them. However, many kennel clubs are cracking down on German Shepherds with sloped backs, so this trend will likely change shortly. Which Breed is Right For You? Those with straight backs are less prone to health problems and have higher endurance. They fit closer to what the German Shepherd originally was intended to be. They make much better working dogs as well since they have higher endurance and are bred for more practical purposes. Those with sloped backs have few benefits over the straight-backed GSD. For the most part, these dogs are only around in the show ring, where they have been known to win some competitions. However, this has led to lots of controversies, as their backs likely led to excess health problems and are not in line with the original breed. In fact, the breed standard specifically speaks against sloped-back dogs, so it is odd that they are winning competitions at all. Many kennel clubs are starting to stand against these sloped-back dogs, especially after the extensive media coverage that some of them have gotten. For this reason, we highly recommend sticking with straight-backed dogs on all occasions. In fact, we particularly recommend finding a breeder that produces working dogs , as these will have more practical traits and temperaments. Related Reads:. While the owner of that dog, Susan Cuthbert, pushed back, saying her German Shepherd had been passed through with a clean bill of health to compete, people around the world have accused the owner and the dog show of animal cruelty. The change in appearance is obvious even to casual viewers. In fact, as The Telegraph later reported, as a result of the international upset, the Crufts dog show actually changed their own entry rules following the show results. The report by the Royal Veterinary College highlighted survey results from clinics in its report of exaggerated breed standards and how they are causing cruel health problems for German Shepherd dogs today. Breed standards are typically developed by breed clubs that actively participate in either working dog or show dog competitions. Breed standards can differ quite a bit based on whether the dog breed in question is a working dog breed or a show dog breed. The former tends to focus its breed standard on temperament and performance traits, while the latter tends to focus its breed standard on how the dog looks, or appearance traits. The German Shepherd was originally developed as an exclusively working dog breed. As the German Shepherd Dog Club of America points out, however, Captain von Stephanitz was also known to heavily interbreed his original dogs to obtain a certain level of mental stability and work ethic. This later caused some genetic flaws, and so Captain von Stephanitz decided to introduce some unrelated herding dog DNA through expanded breeding to get rid of these flaws. What this points to is an essential flaw in the development of any dog breed standard. Any time animal breeding is manipulated to reliably produce certain desirable traits, there is always a risk of introducing health or temperament problems. Today, German Shepherds are tested for a number of known heritable genetic health issues for this very reason, which we will discuss more here shortly. These are the main GSD lines that most breeders work with: American show dog line. West German show dog line. West German working dog line. Czech working dog line. East German DDR dog line. As you have probably already noticed, only two lines are devoted to the show or appearance standard for German Shepherd dogs. The other three lines focus exclusively on working dog traits. American show dog line These dogs are known to be stockier, heavier, taller, and more prone to thin bones, thin heads, and health issues overall. West German show dog line The West German show dog line is also a larger and heavier dog than the other working dog lines and these dogs typically look very similar to one another in every way, from coat color and pattern to size, height, and weight. Certainly, these dogs are leaner and lighter-weight and look more like their rumored wolf-hybrid breed father. Czech GSD working dog line The German Shepherd dogs that come from this lineage are primarily from the Pohranicni Straze kennel, a kennel used nearly exclusively by the Czech military. Their primary work duties are border patrol and military jobs. However, the temperaments of dogs from this breed line are known to vary, and not all make effective working dogs. As the Canine Health Information Center CHIC points out, most purebred dog breeds today have certainly known potentially heritable genetic health issues that occur more commonly in those dog breeds. This is because these dogs have been closely bred to conform to either a working or show appearance breed standard. When this happens, the breeder is deliberately selecting parent dogs based on certain desirable traits rather than on overall health. When this type of breeding program is pursued, it can lead to genetic weaknesses that are passed along to the puppies. For the German Shepherd dog breed, the major known genetic weaknesses that responsible breeders are required to test for include these: Hip and elbow dysplasia.