mastiff poodle mix puppies

This price includes a vet check, first set of shots, and up to date worming. When puppies are born, we start with the first deposit and work our way down the list to confirm your spot on a particular litter. Puppy picks are made in order of deposit. However, with so many labradoodle breeders out there, how can you know which one to buy from? With over families waiting to adopt their next best friend, we encourage you to contact us today to find out more about our adorable labradoodle puppies in Kalamazoo for sale. They are the Ideal Pets! Labradoodles are the perfect mix of calm, easy-going Labrador Retrievers and spunky, affectionate Poodles. They have a sweet disposition and are eager to please their owners. All these amazing qualities make them the perfect addition to your family. So your search for Labradoodles puppies in the Grand Rapids area for sale and Labradoodles puppies in Kalamazoo for sale ends here at Wolf Family Doodles. What should I look for when buying a Labradoodle Puppy? We have a wide variety of puppies available at Wolf Family Doodles, and all of them are absolutely adorable. Our brown labradoodles puppies for sale in Kalamazoo, Michigan, will make your home feel like a cozy cottage with the right amount of space. We also carry brown labradoodles puppies for sale in Grant Rapids. Here are some questions you can ask yourself when considering your pup: Do you have any allergies? Do you prefer a specific size or age? What color do you want? Do you want a male or female? How long do you plan on having this pup? All these things should be considered before making the final decision. We at Wolf Family Doodles offer all colors of labradoodle puppies including brown, white, tan, spotted, and more! Contact us today to get information on the pricing and availability of our puppies! Upcoming Litters We are so excited for you to bring your puppy home! We want you to feel as prepared as possible to begin your puppy parent journey. Happy Shopping! All Star Breeders of Labradoodles earns a small commission on products purchased through our Amazon link. We strive for nothing less than excellence in breeding and raising our precious puppies. We love and are devoted to this very special breed. Why do we believe that Labradoodles are the ultimate breed? Ready to Apply? Joined: Sun Dec 26, pm Location: wirral Post by MrsMoby » Thu Dec 30, pm Mica wrote: If your daughter has allergies it might be best to let her mix with adult dogs as she may not react to the puppy but when their adult coat comes in she could react to that. Both my partner and I have asthma, my partner in particular reacts to dogs. However, we spent two hours with two adult doods Sienna and Mia and 12 puppies and he didn't have a reaction - I did, but only to the saliva, and I still do - I go red and blotchy and slightly itchy if I have prolonged contact like when throwing his ball for ages! Isobel now has Artex who was a puppy from Marley's litter so you would be able to see if your daughter had any reaction to mum and son as well as aunty mia. You could also contact the Labradoodle Trust who have lots of adult dogs for rehoming, I'm sure they would provide lots of further advice on the allergy myth that surrounds doodles too. Unfortunately, many are bought because the breeder sells them as "allergy friendly" and that is just not true so they end up being sold on or given over to the Trust when family members turn out to be allergic to the adult coats. Just to say also, Marley is an F3. I like the scruffy fleece coat look rather than smooth hence I like the F1b's or F2 and 3s etc. Will try my daughter with the adults and also getting her allergy tested as we dont know if its dogs or the environment shes allergic to as she reacts to some but not others but it isnt breed specific MrsMoby and my dood Zuko.

For dogs under the age of 7 years, visit your vet every year. The vet will check for signs of illness, keep them up to date on vaccines, and will treat your dog for parasites and worms. Dogs that are over the age of 7 years should visit the vet every 6 months. The vet will check for signs of illness, keep them up to date on vaccines, and will treat for parasites and worms. Responsible dog owners get their pets vaccinated regularly, wormed, and treated for parasites such as fleas. Vaccination is essential even if you carry your toy poodle everywhere, or he rarely goes outside. This is because some infections such as parvovirus are caused by particularly hardy viruses that can attach to your shoes. Therefore, they can still pose a risk to even the most pampered of poodles. Talk with your vet about implanting a microchip in your dog. A microchip will help you track the dog if he gets lost. One of the health problems that toy poodles are prone to in later life is diabetes mellitus sugar diabetes. The hormones associated with estrous heat in the female can trigger diabetes. Therefore, it is wise to get your female toy poodle spayed. Toy poodles often live into their teens. Each time a bitch has a season, it weakens the lining of her womb and makes her more likely to develop a pyometra, which is a potentially life-threatening womb infection. Thus, spaying whilst she is fit and strong removes the possibility of needing emergency surgery in later life when anesthesia can pose a higher risk. Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell. Neutering a male is mainly done to prevent unwanted breeding and to control behavioral issues such as aggression or dominance. Talk with your vet to learn more. Small but resilient, toy poodles often live well into double figures. They do however tend to suffer from health issues as they age. Diabetes, poor teeth and heart disease are most common. These issues, once identified, can often be managed in order to help your pet live a long and active life. If you see any of these symptoms, speak to your vet. Although she stands no more than 10 inches tall and weighs between 4—6 pounds, the Toy Poodle has a big, playful personality that can fill up a room. While frequently associated with France, Standard Poodles were first developed in Germany, where they were used in duck hunting. They have lower exercise needs than many other dog breeds, but still benefit from a daily walk and play session. Poodles of all sizes have curly coats with extensive grooming needs. Their coat grows continuously, calling for a trim every four to six weeks. However, there is no such thing as a completely "hypoallergenic" dog. People with allergies should spend time with the breed before officially bringing home a Toy Poodle puppy. But during this long life , they are predisposed to a few health issues that may require care. Pet parents may benefit from investing in pet insurance early in life. Progressive Retinal Atrophy Progressive retinal atrophy PRA is a group of diseases that cause a breakdown of the photoreceptor cells rods and cones on the retina. Initially, the dog may have difficulty seeing in the dark, but the condition can cause blindness over time. PRA is an inherited disease and there are currently no effective treatments available. Patellar Luxation The patella kneecap is a small bone that normally sits in a groove within the femur at the knee. In dogs with patellar luxation, the patella moves luxates outside of its assigned groove when the knee is flexed. This movement can cause discomfort and may eventually lead to arthritis. Many pets will skip or run on three legs when the patella is out of place. While some cases will correct themselves, in more severe cases the patella remains out of place. In mild cases, joint supplements such as fish oils and glucosamine or anti-inflammatory medications are used to control pain and prevent arthritis. In more severely affected dogs, surgery may be recommended. This causes pain and limping occur as the bone breaks down. In some cases, pain can be controlled with medications. In severe cases, surgery to remove the head of the femur may be recommended. Symptoms include visible debris, redness, odor, head shaking, and scratching. If any of these signs are noted, take your dog to the veterinarian for an exam. In most cases, ear infections can be resolved by cleaning the ear and with topical medications. Toy Poodles develop ear infections more often than most other breeds. This may be partly due to Poodles having long ear canals with excess curly hair to trap in moisture and debris. Trimming not plucking the hair from the ear may help reduce the incidence of ear infections. Dogs with chronic or recurring ear infections frequently have allergies that should be addressed. Dental Disease Dental disease is one of the most common conditions seen in dogs as they age, especially in small breeds like the Toy Poodle. Dental disease occurs when bacterial tartar and plaque build up, leading to inflammation of the tissues around the teeth—and eventually to tooth and bone decay. Daily tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste is the best way to prevent dental disease, though some diets, treats, and chew toys also help prevent plaque and tartar. Tracheal Collapse Tracheal collapse occurs when the trachea commonly called the windpipe flattens. This happens due to weak cartilage rings or the sagging of a membrane along the trachea. Most cases are treated using medications, but in severe cases where breathing is impeded, surgery may be necessary. Toy poodles are likely genetically predisposed to tracheal collapse. When on walks, use a harness instead of a collar, as pressure on the trachea can cause further damage. The condition causes a deficiency in a protein called the von Willebrand factor, which is necessary for platelets to stick together and form a clot. In dogs that are deficient in this protein, the blood may have difficulty clotting, which can lead to bleeding from the nose, vulva, bladder, or gums. Additionally, dogs with this condition may bleed for a long time after trauma or surgery. If there is concern about VWD, a screening test may be performed. This test measures how long it takes for a small cut in the mouth to stop bleeding. If the time is longer than usual, additional testing is needed to confirm VWD. Because some dogs with VWD do not have notably prolonged bleeding until later in adulthood, blood levels of von Willebrand factor can be measured to help with diagnosis. Most veterinarians recommend testing for VWD prior to any planned surgery, including spays, neuters, and dewclaw removals. Puppies should be fed a diet formulated specifically for puppies or designated for all life stages. For Toy Poodle adults, dental-focused diets may be recommended by your veterinarian to help prevent dental disease. Toy poodle puppies, however, should eat three to four small meals per day on a consistent schedule to help maintain their blood sugar. Additionally, the feeding guide labels on the dog food provides valuable information for pet parents. Just remember: In small breeds like the Toy Poodle, calories in treats add up quickly. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in skin and joint supplements , fish oil, and even in some specially formulated dog foods. These fatty acids act as natural anti-inflammatories that help support the skin, coat, kidneys, joints, and heart. They are playful and self-confident when socialized at a young age. While relatively calm, Toy Poodles enjoy playtime and exercise with the family. The breed is gentle with children and other pets, though all interactions between dogs and kids should be supervised. Because these pups are so tiny, they can accidentally be hurt during playtime. Toy Poodles have lower exercise needs than many other dog breeds, but still benefit from a daily walk and play session. Toy Poodle Behavior Toy Poodles bond closely to their families and may develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. They can also be sensitive to stress, and sudden changes in the home environment may lead to gastrointestinal upset. Additionally, because Poodles are so smart, they need mental stimulation to keep themselves entertained—and out of trouble. Bored dogs are more likely to bark, jump, be destructive, or misbehave. Toy Poodle Training Toy poodles want to please their owners. Paired with their smarts, this makes them an easy breed to train. As always, training is most successful when based on positive reinforcement with praise and tasty treats. Fun Activities for Toy Poodle Obedience training. We will pause our breeding program until futher notice. Your puppy can remember which behaviors he is allowed and where and when he is fed. He can even begin house-training and start becoming used to being groomed. He is ready to leave his mother and littermates to go home with you, fully capable of taking his place in the family. The following list will help you know what to expect from your puppy has he develops. Most puppies will gain or grow rapidly between birth and 6 months of age. How much they grow or gain will depend on their breed, diet, and ultimate adult size. Growth is generally steady until they attain their adult size. You need to build trust with your puppy. Don't ignore crying but address the cause for the crying with attention and care. Touch is the first sense a dog develops and remains a powerfully important sense throughout his life. The entire body, including the paws, is covered with touch-sensitive nerve endings. Although they can see and hear, their sense of vision and hearing is quietly maturing. They are also developing their general sense of smell. This means you will need to take them out at least every 3 hours to get them "housebroken". A general rule of thumb for how long puppies can hold their bladders: one hour for every month of age, plus one. So if a puppy is two months old, he can wait up to three hours. Although capable of learning, they have a very short attention span. Keep a variety of simple toys for your puppy to investigate. He will also play rough and tumble with his littermates and will gradually begin learning to play by himself. It is extremely important that puppies socialize with people at this age. Include lots of people of varying ages, sizes and shapes to interact positively with your pup. Some puppies have a brief phase of "fear" at this time as they may respond to noises or new objects. Expose your puppy to new objects and allow them to investigate on their own terms until they are comfortable with the new situation. After all, most puppies just learned to walk at 3 weeks of age and run at 5 weeks of age, which was just a few short weeks ago. They are developing their gross motor skills that help them to run, play, and "hunt". Their fine motor skills will come later. Puppies also learn to jump up at this stage. This is a normal behavior that can turn into an undesirable behavior when the puppy reaches adult-hood and jumps on every visitor. You can begin correcting your puppy and giving him positive reinforcement for good behavior. Get your puppy used to the brush and comb by gently using them on him for very short sessions that are kept positive. Don't hold your puppy down to be brushed or combed if he does not want to be. Their muzzle is getting longer but overall they have the characteristics of a puppy. The ears may begin to stand up in some breeds. The rest is spent eating, playing and eliminating. A Poodle puppy, especially a miniature poodle puppy, has specific nutritional needs that should be taken into consideration when deciding how much to feed them. The amount of food that a poodle puppy needs is dependent on their age and size. Generally speaking, poodle puppies can eat wet food three times a day until they reach six months of age, after which they can switch to two meals per day. However, the exact amount of food should be tailored to your individual puppy and will depend on their activity level, growth rate and appetite. If you are unsure how much to feed your puppy it is recommended to consult with your veterinarian for advice. In order to ensure that your Poodle puppy gets all the nutrients they need it is best to provide them with high-quality wet food specifically designed for poodle puppies. When it comes to feeding your poodle puppy, you may be wondering if they should receive any kind of supplements in addition to their regular diet. The answer is yes, supplements can play an important role in the overall health and wellbeing of your poodle puppy. Feeding your poodle puppy these supplements will help them to maintain a healthy and balanced diet. Supplements can provide essential vitamins and minerals that are not found in traditional dog foods. Additionally, they can provide essential fatty acids that are needed for growth and development. Additionally, some supplements can assist in the digestion process and help reduce the risk of certain diseases. When choosing what type of supplement to feed a poodle puppy, research the product carefully and make sure it meets the nutritional needs of your particular breed of dog. When it comes to feeding a toy poodle puppy, it is important to recognize that they have different needs than an adult poodle. Toy poodles are small dogs and require smaller portions of food compared to larger breed dogs. The amount of food you should feed a toy poodle puppy depends on several factors, such as its age and activity level. Generally, puppies need to be fed three times daily with the appropriate amount of dry dog food that is formulated for their specific age group. It is also important to make sure your toy poodle puppy has access to fresh water at all times. As your puppy grows older, you may need to adjust the amount of food you feed them accordingly. Additionally, if your puppy becomes overweight or underweight, consult with your veterinarian for advice on how much and what type of food would be best for them. When it comes to feeding a toy poodle puppy, the best practice is to feed them small meals per day. It is important to measure out the amount of food that you are feeding your toy poodle puppy. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health issues in your puppy. You should also make sure that you are providing your pup with high-quality nutrition that will help promote their overall health and well-being. Additionally, it is important to watch closely how much they are eating so as not to overfeed them. When it comes to feeding a toy poodle, the type of nutrition needed is going to depend on your individual pup. Generally speaking, the nutritional needs for a toy poodle are similar to those of any other small breed puppy. This puppy formula will provide not only the necessary vitamins and minerals needed for healthy growth and development, but also beneficial omega-3 fatty acids that can help keep their coat and skin in good condition. Toy poodles may also benefit from an age-appropriate diet or food designed specifically for their breed that accounts for their smaller size and higher metabolism. In addition, you should make sure to provide plenty of fresh water throughout the day to keep your pup hydrated. Male Dog Track your Toy Poodle's weight and compare it to other dogs! Discover the ideal weight for your Toy Poodle and track his progress! Register your dog or puppy now for free and become a part of our growing community of over 7. Typically, a Toy Poodle puppy weighs around 1,8 - 3,6 lbs at 2 months old and continues to gain an additional 2,20 lbs over the next 2 months. By approximately 18 weeks, when the puppy reaches the adolescent stage, a Toy Poodle puppy weighs about 3,3 - 5,6 lbs. What is the typical size of a Toy Poodle? The size of an Toy Poodle can vary depending on gender and genetics. Generally, male Toy Poodles reach a shoulder height of approximately 26 cm, while females have an average shoulder height of around 26 cm. When is the dog breed Toy Poodle fully grown? The dog breed Toy Poodle usually reaches full physical maturity at about 13 to 13 months of age. However, this may vary from individual to individual, as each dog has its own growth rate. What is the average weight of a fully grown Toy Poodle? The weight of a fully grown Toy Poodle dog can vary depending on factors such as gender and genetics. On average, male dogs of this breed typically weigh between 6. Female dogs, on the other hand, usually have a weight range of 4. What is the average lifespan of a Toy Poodle dog? Toy Poodles generally have a life expectancy of approximately 15 to 17 years. With proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary attention, they can lead happy and healthy lives. Our goal is to promote and support healthy growth of your dog. Raising Puppies at Three Weeks Old Sassy the English Mastiff At three weeks old, the pups are wormed with a mild wormer they were also wormed at two weeks. Giant breed dogs are up and walking at 3 weeks old and can be started on food. Medium breeds can start food at 3. Toy breed dogs on the other hand cannot have food yet as they can asperate. Toy breeds cannot start food before 4 weeks of age, 4. Soaked kibble is best for pups this age. In this particular case the pups were not being cared for by the dam and were given mush. It turned out to be a little too early, but it was worth a try considering the circumstances. Feeding mush is Not needed and NOT advised, unless you have a litter you need to wean early, because the mom is not tending to them. Or if the mom dried up early or you are fostering a litter, or the litter size is just to large for mom to comfortably tend to you can feed them mush, but otherwise it is not something that is recommended and is considered old school breeding. Feeding puppies blended up food before they are ready will equal this. Puppies covered in food. They walk in it and get it all over their faces and do a face plant in it. Last year I know of two puppies that died at 3. At 3 to 5 weeks, depending on your dog's breed size, take good quality puppy kibble and soak it 2 parts water and 1 part kibble. Some kibble needs more water than others. The kibble will hold it's shape and soak up the water. You want to use as much water as you can and have the kibble pieces swell up and go very soft. Give the food to the puppies in their eating area, not in their potty area or their play area. The puppies will be able to pick up a piece of soaked kibble and eat it. If they are not ready to do this they are not ready to eat solid food. A dam will often let you know it is time to start feeding the pups solid food when you see her regurgitate her kibble for them. It is a sure sign that soaked kibble is what you should be feeding them. Listen to the dam's instincts. I find if I try to wait until 5 weeks to add solid food to their diet, the dam will beat me to it the day or two before. This confirms that the timing was right on. It was a feeding frenzy.I obviously have to feed in shifts, maybe using two bowls. They dove in and swam; they were more interested in swimming around in the food, and then licking it off of each other. Tips greatly welcomed.At 3 weeks or when the pups start walking and about the time you make a small potty area outside the whelp box add a shallow bowl of water. Pups need to learn to lap water first from a bowl. See house training puppies with the Misty Method. In most breeds, if done correctly, this is at weeks. Then when you add food, pups sometimes get a little or large piece of poop on their rear ends stuck like glue that will NOT come off called will-knots or dingleberries. This can also lead to death, as we also see every year. You need to check each pups butt every 12 hours. A pup last year went to bed with a plugged butt and strained all night, and blew out the sidewall of his bowel. Don't let a puppy suck on your chin, not even for ten seconds. Tonight I added water with Pablum to the bottle. At three and a half weeks, feeding is much neater. This little pup is thoroughly enjoying his dinner, every last morsel! AND they are all peeing and pooping on their own, yippee! Puppy about to poop With solid food come solid poops. This is one of the first of many poops that will need to be cleaned up. Courtesy of MistyTrails Mastiffs. Teacup and tiny toy poodles are still toy poodles, only smaller. There is no separate classification for them. Height: A puppy will grow at least 8cm more from the 8 week stage until maturity. Meaning a puppy that is 13cm tall at 8 weeks will be at least 21cm at adulthood. If you want a small not so tall teacup, make sure the puppy you are thinking of buying is no taller than 13cm at 8 weeks. Puppies may or may not grow very much between 8 and 12 weeks, depending on if they are in the teacup range or not. This is why we choose to keep our puppies until they are 10 to 12 weeks of age so we can better judge an approximate adult size. Weight: Teacup poodle puppies are born very small, they usually weigh between 70g and g at birth. Most puppies in a litter are born about the same size, give or take a bit. They may even grow and gain weight at the same rate as each other. It is impossible to tell what the adult size of a 2 to 3 week puppy will be. Parental genetics are a good indicator but not an absolute. We cannot be sure what its adult size will be until the puppy is at least 6 weeks of age and even then it is a guesstimate. We will have a much more accurate estimation when the puppy reaches 12 weeks of age. Teacups and tiny toy poodles are usually finished growing in height by 6 to 8 months but will still fill out a little more. We do our very best to estimate the adult size of our puppies based on previous litters if applicable , sizes of parents and their ancestors as well as the toy poodle growth chart shown above. Genetics is very complicated and recessive genes can come into play. Like humans, female puppies tend to be a similar size to their mother, whereas male puppies tend to be the same size as their father or grandfather.

I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Free Bulldog Puppy Starter Kit! English bulldogs for sale in texas "We pride our selves on making exceptional quality bulldogs" Health Guarantee We provide a limited 1 year health guarantee on your bulldog purchased from us. This helps guarantee the health of the bulldog. We want to make sure that our customers feel comfortable and trusted, when buying their English bulldog with us. The blueeyes Bloodline We have built up our English bulldog bloodline from scratch when we just started breeding 10 years ago. We have got colors such as Merle, blue, lilac, double chocolate, and features like Blue Eyes or exotic markings. One of the top canine color testers! This will assure you that what you see in the photo will be what you see when you meet us. We will guide you through every step from vet visits, to grooming, and feeding. If you are using your bulldogs to breed, we will also be their to help you with the process. As seen on.English bulldog puppies for sale As you can tell from our website, we mostly specialize in AKC English bulldogs for sale Texas and French Bulldogs for sale. Since we are a very small hobby breeder owning more than the breeds we already have will just overwhelm us and lower the quality of our dogs. Our main goals are to: 1. Make the breed have better health 2. Give a better quality of life to these amazing dogs 3. Give people the gift of owning a bulldog Some of the colors we offer are Lavender French bulldogs, Merle French bulldogs, Lilac French bulldogs , etc for our French Bulldogs. The Best Bulldog blog! Follow us on our bulldog blog where we frequently post tips, tricks, and new information about French and English bulldogs for sale. Additionally you can subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated on new Bulldog blog posts, and new French and new English bulldogs for sale on our website. We are trusted breeders for over 10 years, and have a lot of experience with English and French Bulldogs. So if you need some help go check out our bulldog blog and grow your knowledge of french and english bulldogs.

Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic French Bulldog Overview Bat-eared but oddly beautiful, the French Bulldog has a unique appeal. Aesthetically, other breeds undeniably are more glamorous and showy, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder and what many behold in the French Bulldog are the attributes that make this breed one of the best companion dogs in the world today. The French Bulldog is small but substantial in build with a powerful muscular body. He sports a short easy-care coat to accompany his easygoing personality. The Frenchie likes to play, but he also enjoys spending his days relaxing on the sofa. That love of play and relaxed attitude carry over into their training sessions. French Bulldogs are intelligent, and training them is easy as long as you make it seem like a game and keep it fun. They are free thinkers and are not an ideal breed for competing in obedience or agility although some have risen to the challenge. This freethinking approach can also lead to a stubborn nature, and if they decide to dig in their heels there is no budging them. Frenchies are loving companions who thrive on human contact. If you want an outdoor dog who can be left alone for long periods, the Frenchie is not the breed for you. This is a dog who enjoys lavishing love on his human companions as much as he loves the same treatment in return. They generally get along well with everyone, including children. They can, however, be territorial and possessive of their people, especially in the presence of other dogs. Socialization is a must for this breed, but with their easy companionship this is an enjoyable task. With a nature that is both humorous and mischievous, the French Bulldog needs to live with someone who is consistent, firm, and patient with all the antics and idiosyncrasies that make him both frustrating and delightful. They can be protective of their home and family and some will try to defend both with their life. French Bulldogs do not need a lot of room and do very well in apartments or small dwellings. A couple of minute walks per day should keep them from becoming overweight. Keep the Frenchie in cool, comfortable surroundings. This is not a dog who can stay outside on a hot day. French Bulldogs are wonderful companion dogs with a gentle nature. If you work at home, the Frenchie is happy to lie at your feet all day or follow you from room to room. French Bulldog Highlights Friendly and playful: French Bulldogs are known for their friendly and playful personality. They love to cuddle and play fetch. Low-maintenance: French Bulldogs are relatively low-maintenance dogs. They only require moderate exercise and grooming. Good with children: French Bulldogs are good with children and other pets. They make great family dogs. Intelligent: French Bulldogs are intelligent dogs and can be easily trained. Adaptable: French Bulldogs can adapt to different living conditions. They are a good choice for apartment dwellers or people with active lifestyles. Healthy: French Bulldogs are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to some health problems, such as brachycephalic airway syndrome and cherry eye. Overall, French Bulldogs are great dogs for people of all ages and lifestyles. They are friendly, playful, and low-maintenance, making them a perfect addition to any family. They were originally bred to be bull-baiting dogs, but this practice was outlawed in England in .French Bulldogs were then imported to France where they became popular as companion dogs. In France, French Bulldogs were often kept by lacemakers and other artisans who worked in small shops. The dogs were prized for their gentle nature and their ability to adapt to cramped living quarters. French Bulldogs also became popular with the French upper class, and they were often depicted in paintings and sculptures. French Bulldogs were first brought to the United States in the late s, and they quickly became popular with American families. The dogs were known for their friendly and playful personality, and they made great companions for children. French Bulldogs also became popular with celebrities, and they were often featured in movies and television shows. Today, French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. They are known for their friendly and playful personality, their low-maintenance coat, and their adaptability to different living conditions. French Bulldogs make great companions for people of all ages and lifestyles. The French Bulldog thrived in France and Europe, and his charm was soon discovered by Americans as well. Males weigh 20 to 28 pounds, females 16 to 24 pounds. French Bulldog Personality This is a smart, loving dog who wants and needs to spend lots of time with his people. Hip dysplasia can exist with or without clinical signs. Some dogs exhibit pain and lameness on one or both rear legs. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Ask the breeder for proof that the parents have been tested for hip dysplasia and found to be free of problems. Brachycephalic Syndrome : This disorder is found in dogs with short heads, narrowed nostrils, or elongated or soft palates. Their airways are obstructed to varying degrees and can cause anything from noisy or labored breathing to total collapse of the airway. Dogs with brachycephalic syndrome commonly snuffle and snort. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition but includes oxygen therapy as well as surgery to widen nostrils or shorten palates. Allergies: Allergies are a common problem in dogs. The medication for inhalant allergies depends on the severity of the allergy. It is important to note that ear infections often accompany inhalant allergies. Hemivertebrae: This is a malformation of one or more vertebrae that causes it to be shaped like a wedge or triangle. This malformation can occur on its own or with other vertebrae malformations. Hemivertebra can cause no problems, or it can put pressure on the spinal cord. This can lead to pain, weakness, and or paralysis. There is no treatment for the condition unless there is spinal cord pressure. It is caused when the patella, which has three parts — the femur thigh bone , patella knee cap , and tibia calf — is not properly lined up and slips in and out of place luxates. This causes lameness or an abnormal gait the way the dog moves. The rubbing caused by patellar luxation can lead to arthritis, a degenerative joint disease. There are four grades of patellar luxation ranging from grade I, an occasional luxation causing temporary lameness in the joint, to grade IV, in which the turning of the tibia is severe and the patella cannot be realigned manually. This gives the dog a bowlegged appearance. Severe grades of patellar luxation may require surgical repair. When the disc pushes into the spinal cord, nerve transmissions are inhibited from traveling along the spinal cord. Intervertebral Disc Disease can be caused by trauma, age, or simply from the physical jolt that occurs when a dog jumps off a sofa. When the disc ruptures, the dog usually feels pain and the ruptured disc can lead to weakness and temporary or permanent paralysis. In some cases surgery can help, but it must be done within a day or so of the injury. You may also want to ask your veterinarian about physical rehabilitation. Treatments such as massage, water treadmills and electrical stimulation are available for dogs and can have excellent success. It affects the clotting process due to the reduction of von Willebrand factor in the blood. Occasionally blood is found in the stool. This disorder is usually diagnosed in your dog between the ages of 3 and 5 and cannot be cured. However, it can be managed with treatments that include cauterizing or suturing injuries, transfusions of the von Willebrand factor before surgery, and avoiding certain medications. Cleft Palate : The palate is the roof of the mouth and separates the nasal and oral cavities. It is made up of two parts, hard and soft. A cleft palate has a slit that runs bilaterally or unilaterally and can range in size from a small hole to a large slit. A cleft palate can affect both the hard and soft palate separately and together and may cause a cleft lip. Puppies can be born with cleft palates, or a cleft palate can occur from an injury. Cleft palates are fairly common in dogs, but many puppies born with a cleft palate do not survive or are euthanized by the breeder. The only treatment for a cleft palate is surgery to close the hole, although not all dogs with a cleft palate require the surgery. It is important to get a diagnosis and treatment recommendation from your veterinarian. Elongated Soft Palate: The soft palate is the extension of the roof of the mouth. When the soft palate is elongated, it can obstruct airways and cause difficulty in breathing. The treatment for Elongated Soft Palate is surgical removal of the excess palate. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Regardless of how healthy your dog is when you first bring them home, you should prepare for any issues that may come up throughout their life. French Bulldog Care French Bulldogs do not need a lot of exercise. They have fairly low energy levels, although there are exceptions to every rule. To keep their weight down, however, they need daily exercise through short walks or play times in the yard. Many French Bulldogs enjoy playing and will spend much of their time in various activities, but they are not so high energy that they need a large yard or long periods of exercise. This breed is prone to heat exhaustion and should not be exercised in hot temperatures. Limit walks and active play to cool mornings and evenings. When training a French Bulldog, take into account that although they are intelligent and usually eager to please, they are also free thinkers. That means they can be stubborn. It is important to crate train your French Bulldog puppy even if you plan to give him the freedom of the house when he reaches adulthood. French Bulldog Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 1. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. For more on feeding your Frenchie, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. The skin is loose and wrinkled, especially at the head and shoulders, and has a soft texture. French Bulldogs come in a variety of colors, including fawn, cream, various shades of brindle — a coat patterned with specks and streaks of light and dark markings — such as black brindle and the striking tiger brindle, and brindle and white, known as brindle pied. French Bulldogs can be any color except solid black, liver a solid reddish-brown with brown pigmentation on the lips and nose , mouse a light steely gray , and black with white or tan. Run from any breeder who tells you that a particular color is rare and thus worth more money. Having your heart set on a fawn female is a recipe for disappointment when the litter contains only cream and brindle males. French Bulldogs are fairly easy to groom and need only an occasional brushing to keep their coat healthy. They are average shedders. Begin grooming your Frenchie at a young age and teach your puppy to stand on a table or floor to make this experience easier on both of you. When you are grooming your Frenchie at any stage of life, take the time to check for any scabs, skin lesions, bare spots, rough, flaky skin, or signs of infections. You should also check ears, eyes and teeth for any discharge or bad smells. Both are signs that your Frenchie may need to see the veterinarian. Clean ears regularly with a damp warm cloth and run a cotton swab around the edge of the canal. Never stick the cotton swab into the actual ear canal. If the edges of the ears are dry, apply mineral or baby oil sparingly. The oil can also be used on a dry nose. French Bulldogs do not naturally wear their nails down and will need their nails trimmed regularly. This prevents splitting and tearing, which can be painful for the dog. Keep the facial wrinkles clean and dry to prevent bacterial infections. Whenever you bathe your dog, take the time to thoroughly dry the skin between the folds. Bathe your French Bulldog monthly or as needed, and use a high-quality dog shampoo to keep the natural oils in his skin and coat. French Bulldogs should be easy to groom, and with proper training and positive experiences during puppyhood, grooming can be a wonderful bonding time for you and your Frenchie. That said, no dog should ever be left alone with a young child. When they are socialized to them during puppyhood, Frenchies can get along well with other dogs and cats. French Bulldog Rescue Groups French Bulldogs are often acquired without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one, and these dogs often end up in the care of rescue groups, in need of adoption or fostering. All dogs will need veterinary care at some point in their lives. French Bulldog Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues. Below are breed clubs, organizations, and associations where you can find additional information about the French Bulldog. Friday 25th of August Great Article eric Saturday 15th of April my recent rescue of a 3 year old supposed puppymill frenchie momma. I will probably have more questions later. It's not easy to take on the responsibility of a dog with behavioral quirks, but with some effort, you can help her become a happy and well-adjusted pet. Here are a few tips to get you started: Socialize her as much as possible: She might not have been socialized as much as she could've — ideally this is done when they're puppies, but you can still get behavior improvements in adult Frenchies through socializing. My Frenchie used to be scared of new people and always would bark at them.Supervise playtime: It's important to keep a close eye on interactions between the Frenchie and your pug, especially when toys are involved. If the Frenchie shows signs of aggression, such as growling or snarling, immediately remove the toy and redirect her attention to a different activity. Introduce new experiences gradually: If the Frenchie is not used to being around children, it's important to introduce her to your grandchild in a slow and controlled manner. Start by having the child sit quietly while you hold the Frenchie on a leash. If the Frenchie shows interest but no signs of aggression, you can gradually increase the amount of time they spend together. Seek professional help if needed: If the Frenchie's behavioral issues persist despite your efforts, it may be helpful to consult with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can assess the situation and provide tailored advice and training techniques to help the Frenchie overcome her fears and insecurities. Remember, with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can help your Frenchie momma become a happy and well-adjusted member of your family. Best of luck! My biggest problem is Squirrels. We live on 2 acres and yes lots of squirrels. I am trying to figure out how to keep him from just taking off full speed after them. I even walk him on a leash no pull harness it terrifies me when takes off while being on a leash, he is very strong. I started making him stop walking before he takes off, before we start walking again. Our yard is fenced however he started running to fence or tree trying to climb it. I want him to have free time to run and play. It seems like you're on the right track with the no-pull harness, but they definitely aren't an easy fix to a problem like this. My Frenchie is the same way, she likes to chase squirrels, bunnies, and other animals in our backyard. She's actually got a few bunnies — I don't think the squirrel toy we have helps lol. Here are a few suggestions for your situation: Use a deterrent: Consider using a deterrent such as a motion-activated sprinkler or ultrasonic device to discourage squirrels from entering your yard in the first place. Impulse control training: Practice impulse control training by making your dog stop and refocus his attention before taking off after squirrels. Positive reinforcement training: Train your dog with positive reinforcement, teaching him a "leave it" command to ignore squirrels and focus on you instead. Avoid punishment: Avoid punishing your dog for chasing squirrels as this can lead to fear or anxiety around them. Instead, focus on redirecting his attention to more appropriate behaviors. Physical and mental stimulation: Provide plenty of physical and mental stimulation through regular walks, interactive toys, and training sessions to help reduce your dog's desire to chase squirrels. Long leash: Consider using a long leash to give your dog more freedom to move around the yard while still having control over him. Safe and secure outdoor space: Create a safe and secure outdoor space for your dog, such as a fenced area or an enclosed playpen, where he can run and play without chasing squirrels. Professional guidance: Consult with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist for additional guidance and support. It's important to remember that training takes time and patience, so don't get discouraged if progress is slow. With consistent training and reinforcement, your dog can learn to control his impulse to chase squirrels and enjoy his free time in the yard without the need for a leash. Thanks for your comment. We'll try to help you to the best of our abilities. We have tried turning our backs to her but that was not a success. Do you have any helpful tips? We need help! Here are some tips to help with your Frenchie's biting and jumping: Teach "off" or "down" command: When your Frenchie starts to jump or bite, firmly and calmly say "off" or "down" and redirect her attention to a toy or treat. Use positive reinforcement: Reward your Frenchie with a treat or praise when she listens and stops biting or jumping. Consistency is key in reinforcing good behavior. Provide plenty of exercise: Make sure your Frenchie gets enough exercise and playtime to help reduce her energy and prevent her from getting too excited and jumping or biting. Practice good playtime: Encourage your Frenchie to play with toys and not with people's feet or ankles. Provide plenty of chew toys and interactive toys to keep her engaged and occupied. Consider professional training: If these tips don't seem to work, you may want to consider professional training for your Frenchie to help modify her behavior and learn more positive ways to interact with people. I hope these tips help, and good luck with your Frenchie! FrenchieWiki Community. It's no secret that French Bulldogs are unique in every way. From their looks to their personalities, your Frenchie will be one of a kind. Thinking of adopting one? There are a few things you should know. Plus, we'll tell you how to choose the right Frenchie for your family and how much space you'll need. What is a French Bulldog? Toy Bulldogs gained popularity in the s. Lace makers in Nottingham, England, embraced the snub-nosed dogs and eventually brought the breed to France. As the years went by, these miniature Bulldogs were cross-bred, and their looks began to change. Because of their unique appearance and sweet temperaments, the breed quickly became a favorite around the globe — including in the US. The average weight for an adult French Bulldog is between 16 and 28 pounds. They can measure between 11 and 12 inches tall. These pups have a short, straight coat that comes in a range of colors. Popular varieties include white, fawn, brindle, cream, lilac, and blue. Want to rent a property with a French Bulldog? Learn how Petscreening can increase your chances of securing a home with a pet. What are the most common Frenchie personality traits? We know the breed doesn't always determine the behavior of the dog. However, there are a few personality traits that French Bulldogs commonly share. Here are six of them: 1. Gentle Frenchies are a gentle breed. They're usually calm and suited to a range of households. For example, they can be the perfect pet for families, singles, couples, or seniors. While they'll be playful puppies, they're not usually aggressive, even during their younger years. Keep in mind, though, that Frenchies can have bouts of hyperactivity. With the right upbringing and socialization, your French Bulldog will be approachable and docile. They appreciate a kind, caring owner and respond best to positive reinforcement. Friendly Looking for a friendly breed? You can't skip the French Bulldog. These happy pooches love being around people and won't usually hide away when you have company. French Bulldogs don't like to be alone and can get on well with other pets. If you're thinking of getting your Frenchie a friend, they'll be best suited to a dog of the same breed. If you want your French Bulldog to be comfortable around others, make sure you socialize them from a young age. Affectionate French Bulldogs are known for their affectionate personalities. They like company and will follow you around the house. Frenchies will bond with their owners to the point of being possessive. Their "clingy" nature can be caused by separation anxiety. It's also because you make them feel safe. They usually enjoy cuddles, sleeping near you, and sitting on your lap. Female Frenchies can be slightly more affectionate than males. These are companion dogs, and once they've bonded with their owners, they'll give unconditional love. Playful Most French Bulldogs have a playful streak. You'll need to keep them entertained because a bored Frenchie may chew your furniture or shoes. If you need to leave your dog alone, make sure they have a chew toy. Your pup will enjoy playing games with you. You can start by teaching them to play fetch and tug of war. French Bulldogs can also play more advanced games, such as hide and seek. What about exercise requirements? Aim for up to an hour of exercise per day. You can break this up into minute walks because these dogs can overheat. With their flat noses, the hot weather can increase breathing difficulties, so avoid the outdoors in high temperatures. Entertaining Most Frenchie owners will tell you their pets are entertaining. They like to impress their owners, and they'll always make you smile. Your French Bulldog will like to be the center of attention. For example, they'll love to show off their tricks, such as "sit," "stay," and "drop". If you ignore your dog, it could lead to destructive behavior, such as chewing and urinating. However, they do have a short attention span, so proper training can be a gradual process. Alert French Bulldogs are an alert breed. They like to know what's happening in their territory and will tell you when someone is at the door. You can expect your Frenchie to notice if there's any activity. Whether it's a parcel delivery, visitor, or intruder, you'll be alerted with a bark. While they can be good watchdogs, these aren't built to be guard dogs. Most of the time, French Bulldogs will only give a quick yap. They're not known to bark excessively, and they're rarely aggressive. Is a French Bulldog a good family dog? French Bulldogs can be ideal family pets. They're affectionate and loyal and bond with owners of all ages. Keep in mind this flat-faced breed can get injured easily. Your children will need to be gentle and avoid rough play. It's for this reason that Frenchies can be best suited to families with children over five. Like any dog, you should teach your kids to listen to your French Bulldog's cues. For example, the pet may give a warning growl when they're uncomfortable. In this situation, your Frenchie should have space to walk away. Remember, children should always have adult supervision around dogs, no matter how small or sweet the animal is. How to care for a French Bulldog If you adopt a French Bulldog, there are a few things you should know. They don't need much exercise and can get hot quickly. Due to their breathing difficulties, they aren't suited to climates with extreme temperatures. In cold weather, your Frenchie will need to wear a coat. They have low grooming requirements, and you'll only need to brush their coat once a week. You should also wipe your dog's face every few days. There is a range of potential health concerns for French Bulldogs. Besides breathing difficulties and obstructed airways, these dogs can suffer from patellar luxations slipped kneecaps. Plus, they can get ear discharge and dermatitis. As said before, this is a breed that doesn't like to be left alone for too long. If your pet will be by themselves for long hours, consider getting them a friend. You'll also need plenty of toys for mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys, food dispenser balls, and rope toys. These dogs may be cute, but they're not always the smartest pets. The good news is Frenchies usually want to please their owners, so they'll try their best to learn. If you want to train your pup, start as early as you can. You can train them yourself with the help of books or online resources, or you can take them to a store like Petsmart, doggy boot camps, or other classes to have the training done by a professional. If you train them yourself, keep in mind that they like their routines, so consistency is key. You'll need to be patient because some skills, such as toilet training, can take time to master. When teaching your French Bulldogs different commands, keep your training sessions short. They can get overwhelmed easily, and this can bring out their stubborn streaks. Never punish your French Bulldog. They respond best to positive reinforcement and affection. Reward your little friend with treats and celebrate their successes. What to look for when choosing a French Bulldog Thinking of adopting a Frenchie? Here are a few things to look out for. Breeding When adopting a Frenchie, it's important to choose a reputable breeder. The right person will have a good track record and be experienced with this popular dog breed. French Bulldogs can have a range of health issues, including breathing troubles, ear infections, hip dysplasia, and skin allergies. A good bloodline can help reduce some of these issues. A responsible breeder will help you understand your dog and be there to offer advice both short and long-term. If you prefer a rescue animal, check with any local breed-specific organizations. Price A purebred dog will usually cost you a few thousand dollars. The price can vary depending on your location, the coat color, and the breeder's reputation. If someone is selling a French Bulldog at a price that's "too good to be true", it's probably a scam. Try to talk to the breeder over the phone and meet the dog in person. Do your research and be prepared to wait for the right dog. The price should include a health guarantee and a written bill of sale. Your French Bulldog should have had veterinary care, including a checkup and vaccinations. Background The behavior, health, and temperament of your French Bulldog can depend on its background. If you're adopting a pup, you should be able to learn about its upbringing from the breeder. For example, does the dog come from a home with young children and other pets? Is the Frenchie toilet trained? Has it lived in an apartment, home with a yard, or a farm environment? On the other hand, if it's a rescue dog, you'll need to be prepared for potential issues. Appearance Before you adopt a French Bulldog, take a look at its appearance. It's not about how cute the pup looks - it's about health. However, there are a few red flags. A shiny coat is also a sign of good health. How much space does a French Bulldog need? French Bulldogs have low to medium energy levels and don't need much space to be happy. They're a good choice for apartment living as well as larger properties. While they do need daily exercise, you can meet their needs with daily walks, games, and dog toys. Due to their calm nature and small size, French Bulldogs are suitable for renters. Remember, Frenchies can be destructive, but this is usually only if they get bored or lonely. Make sure your home has heating and cooling to keep your pooch comfortable in all weather conditions. These traits can vary depending on upbringing and training. Adopting one of these dogs is a long-term commitment, and you should be committed to regular vet visits. Beware of prices that are too low, as this can signal a scam. French Bulldogs are suitable pets for renters. Learn how the PetScreening service can help you secure a rental property. Sarah Smith. Pin 0 Shares Owning a French Bulldog comes with a high level of commitment. You are bound to have seen all of those funny videos online of French Bulldogs acting all hyper and destructive, especially as puppies. Are French bulldogs hyper? French Bulldogs can be very hyperactive as puppies and sometimes into adulthood too. They require a lot of stimulation and exercise in order to curb destructive behavior. Whilst they do sleep a lot, when awake they will require a lot of attention from their owners. Our own personal experience We brought Claude home when he was around 9 weeks of age which is just around the right time to take a Frenchie puppy from his mother. Whilst we thought we knew what we were letting ourselves in for, nothing really prepared us for how high energy this breed can be. Continue reading to see what we learned about owning a hyper destructive Frenchie puppy. In the rest of this guide I am going to explain how we got on, what we learned, when our Frenchie finally calmed down, and particularly how destructive French Bulldogs can be without the right care and attention. How hyper are French Bulldogs? French Bulldogs are a hyperactive breed and will run and run until they can run no more. They love to play and will act like clowns even until their adult life. In the first few months of owning Claude meant we were constantly on our toes and having to put things out of reach that he wanted to chew and destroy. I would say that the puppy phase is without doubt the most hyperactive and destructive phase. Below you can see some examples of what we had to put up with and how we learned to cope with in the first few months of ownership. Are French Bulldogs hyper as puppies? Oh yes, French Bulldogs are hyper as puppies. During the puppy phase expect to have to deal with a lot of high energy and destructive habits. Their senses are developing, the world is a great big adventure, and they will be testing their own limits… and yours! However, there is such thing as hyperactivity in dogs which is medically known as hyperkinesis. Frenchies who display over hyper behavior, are frenetic, have short attention spans and act on impulse can be given medication. Your Frenchie could be hyper due to a mix of their genes, training, and how well they were socialised. After all, many Frenchies are extremely excitable. This is what to expect from the majority of Frenchies though — all of which is perfectly normal: 1. With Claude it would start by him running really fast down the corridor on the top floor in our house between rooms. He would also do it in out lounge by running around in circles, jumping up and down onto the couches at super speed. He actually hurt himself a few times doing this, so you need to puppy proof your environment where possible. French Bulldog owners have their own name for this hyper behavior; the Frenchie s. He would do it when anyone came into our house and also outdoors when being taken for a walk. There was one walk I took him on when he jumped up at a toddler and pushed the kid down due to being too hyperactive. That incident led me to working on this habit with some intensive training. You can see how I stopped him jumping up in this guide. Claude knew that once he was on his leash it meant he was off to the the local park for some excitement. However, having to walk with a Frenchie that would pull on his lead constantly did become very tiresome. We would also have problems where we could not get him to come back to us when it was time to go home. Claude would pull and strain at his leash for quite a few months until he was trained correctly. We ended up taking Claude to puppy socialisation classes which let him learn how to behave when being walked, despite the presence of other hyperactive puppies and people. I recommend that you take your hyperactive French Bulldog puppy to socialisation classes near you. This will help you to train them for not just leash walks, but also recall once they are off the lead. Are French Bulldogs destructive? As well as the hyperactive nature of a Frenchie puppy, you also need to be prepared for how destructive French Bulldogs can be. French Bulldogs are destructive when they are younger, and without training and care will continue these traits into later life. This breed needs a loving home to grow up. If you do leave them alone for long periods of time, especially when puppies, then you will see destructive habits that can be hard to break. Biting and chewing French Bulldogs puppies are big chewers, make no mistake! The puppies use their mouths to taste and test out everything they come across. This is what the end of our dining room table looked like after being chewed by our hyper destructive French Bulldog puppy. During this phase I recommend you invest in chewing and teething toys. I have put together a short list of the teething toys we used with Claude. The good news is that your French Bulldog puppy should stop the chewing behavior at around 8 months of age. For more advice on how to curb biting and chewing which is the main complaint new owners have about French Bulldogs being destructive, please read these guides: How to stop a Frenchie from chewing 2. Digging up your yard or garden French Bulldogs also love to dig. When we got Claude, I had only recently re-done our garden lawn and had to constantly chase him off the grass to stop him digging holes. One way you can stop your Frenchie puppy destructively digging up the lawn is by giving them something else to distract their attention. The reason Frenchies dig are wide ranging, including: They have an urge to escape and explore. They dig to find critters and interesting smells. They will occasionally dig when they are bored. They might even want to eat the dirt. They will also dig when they are anxious. I ended up building a small fenced off area to prevent this destructive behavior. If you want to read more tips on why they dig and how to stop it, read my guide to Frenchie digging. Peeing on the floor indoors Another piece of destructive behavior you need to be prepared for is the toilet training aspect. French Bulldog puppies will pee and poop on the floor in your house for often as old as 8 months. We developed a potty training guide which contains all the information you need to cope with this. Crying when left alone One of the harder aspects to cope with is how much attention Frenchie puppies need from you. They have been taken from their mothers and siblings, so of course, will want to get that reassurance and comfort from you. I can only compare it having a baby. If left alone for even short periods of time, your French Bulldog with exhibit destructive behavior such as chewing and sometimes even eating their own poop. French Bulldog separation anxiety is an actual thing click that link for advice on how to manage it. Are French Bulldogs high energy as adults? The good news is that things will get better providing you have socialized and trained the puppy as best you can. We also found that once Claude had been neutered at 8 months of age , he got a lot better and the hyper high energy reduced dramatically. Do French Bulldogs ever calm down? Yes, French Bulldogs do calm down eventually. The high energy behavior will reduce as they approach adulthood. Frenchies that are neutered or spayed between 4 and 9 months will also start to calm down and exbibit less high energy behavioural patterns. We learned that whilst French Bulldogs will sleep for 12 hours a day you can see the sleeping schedule in the graphic below , when they are awake they need lot of activity. French Bulldogs are high energy when they are awake so make the most of the time in the day when they will be sleeping — which is a lot as you can see here. We take Claude for two walks a day; one in the morning and one in the afternoon for around 25 to 30 minutes each time. My son also has a laser pen and plays with Claude in the kitchen with that to further wear him out. By doing so, our Frenchie is still hyper, but at the right moments and in the right way. One way you can do that is to make sure they have plenty of toys and fun things to do. Check out this list of Frenchie play accessories for more information. Want more advice on YouTube? There is a huge amount of advice on the French Bulldog Owner website about how to care for your dog from puppy through to adulthood. But if you want to see actual real video footage, I would recommend subscribing to our YouTube channel as we release weekly updates and episodes. Conclusion To conclude, French Bulldogs are hyperactive. French Bulldogs are destructive. However, the majority of this behavior will be curbed as they grow older providing you train and exercise your dog as you should do. Our own Frenchie did calm down eventually as he grew older. Owning a French Bulldog is a privilege, not a right. There are pros and cons to owning this breed so before you decide to buy, make sure a Frenchie is right for you: read the pros and cons to owning a Frenchie here. A sad and unhappy Frenchie will be a destructive one. If you have any concerns that your Frenchie could be depressed, read this guide to the signs of depression. Consider this your guide to understanding and correcting French Bulldog behavior problems. Do French Bulldogs have behavior problems? French Bulldogs can make wonderful companions. Health problems. French Bulldogs can be vulnerable to many health conditions, including cataracts, hip dysplasia, and gastroenteritis. Some bad behaviors might be symptoms or side effects of whatever is ailing them. Dogs can be remarkably similar to toddlers. Is yours getting enough physical and mental stimulation to keep them from getting into trouble? Bad habits. Your pup might just need some discipline. They might do it just because they know that they can get away with it! Different problems will have different solutions. What are the most common French Bulldog behavior problems? Destructive Biting and Chewing Most dogs will gleefully tear into a toilet paper roll at least once in their life. It could also have a physical cause like pain from teething or an undiagnosed injury. Bad Leash Discipline As active, playful dogs, most Frenchies love a good walk. This can become a problem when they pull on the leash or lunge at bunnies and interesting-looking joggers. If your dog is older, however, or if they start making messes around the house for no apparent reason, the problem could be physical, mental, or emotional. Excessive Barking Howls are cute from tiny little pups. How do you stop French Bulldog behavior problems? Every dog is different, and the training techniques of one pet owner might not work for another. Identify the cause Are they bored? Are they stressed? Make a plan of action Maybe you can buy more chew toys for a teething puppy. Stick to your guns Training your French Bulldog will require time and patience. You just have to be consistent. You may like to try out an online training course, like Pupford Academy. Wrapping up Are you ready to fix the behavioral problems of your French Bulldog? You just have to draw it out! So it is good to send us a scented item from home even at this early stage if you have already chosen your French bulldog puppy. This is not a good time for strangers to come and visit as negative events can have a serious impact on his personality and development right now. Stage 3: The Overlap Stage Weeks From weeks, your French bulldog puppy begins the most critical social development period of his life. He learns social interaction with his litter mates, learns how to play and learns bite inhibition. Mom will begin weaning the pups around this time, and will start teaching them basic manners, including accepting her as the leader of the pack. We begin to introduce food to the puppies starting around the 4th week. We transition gradually as Mom weans them. Puppies that are removed from the nest too early frequently are nervous, more prone to barking and biting and have a more difficult time with socialization and training. Puppies need to be left with Mom and siblings until at least 7 weeks of age. If we feel that your French bulldog puppy needs more time with mom we will let you know that as some puppies need a little longer for optimum social development. This is the window of opportunity to make sure your Frenchie puppy grows up to be a well-adjusted French bulldog. This is not a good time to engage in harsh discipline note… you never should anyway! You can begin teaching simple commands like come, sit, stay, down, etc. Leash training can begin. We offer one-on-one training with your puppy as early as 8 weeks as this is the perfect time to begin. Especially if he will be with us beyond 8 weeks of age. He will continue to learn behaviors and manners that will affect him in later years. He might start biting you. Play biting or even a real attempt to challenge your authority. You may see a decline in his urge to please you. Frozen doggie bones can help sooth him during this period. We wet and freeze tube socks with a knot in them and they love these. Easy to wash too. He may try to assert his new dominance over other family members, especially children. If you turn him loose in a public place and he bolts, the chances of injury or even death can result. Be realistic in your expectations of your French bulldog at this time. Gradually increase the scope of activities for your French bulldog, as well as the training. Otherwise, extend his activities to include more people and other animals. The French Bulldog breed is one of the most popular and beloved companion dogs in the world, thanks to its laidback, affectionate nature. In fact, the American Kennel Club has French Bulldogs in the top ten list of the most popular dog breeds. Video: Types of French Bulldog Behavior Problems French Bulldog Behavior Problems However, like all dog breeds, they are not perfect, and you need to be aware of their issues before committing to a Frenchie. Doing a little research before getting any breed of dog is a good idea. All breeds have positives and negatives in their personality, trainability, energy level, and health. Clingy French Bulldogs love their owners. They just seem to crave human contact. Sometimes, this can be to the point of it being an unhealthy, clingy Frenchie behavior or obsession. This might not be an issue for some people, but leaving them alone is typically not a good idea if you work or like to travel. French Bulldogs regularly suffer from separation anxiety and will follow their owner everywhere they go. If you are not someone who is home most of the time, you might want to consider another dog. Behaviors that tend to be anxiety-related are accidents in the house, chewing, excessive barking, and pacing. None of these are enjoyable dog traits. Noisy The French Bulldog breed , like most other dogs, bark. Most people want them to do this so they know someone is coming, but French Bulldogs have their own language. They make a litany of strange noises, from crying to barking, whining, to snorting. Related Article: Noisy Nappers This toy breed is much louder than one would expect and, by all accounts, not a quiet breed. Some people think the noises a French Bulldog makes are part of its charm. This is a personal preference, but you need to know how loud a Frenchie is before getting one. Mischievous For such a small dog, French Bulldogs can get themselves in a lot of trouble in a hurry. Also, mischievousness can go back to separation anxiety. You will need to puppy-proof your home and might have to always take extra precautions with cupboards or trash. This will allow them the ability to explore and play freely. They will get into stuff. Then those big beautiful eyes hit you, and off comes a piece of chicken right into their now very interested mouth. Some foods can actually kill your dog, so please check this out. You only have yourself to blame if your dog begs for food. You have conditioned them to do so. You can also ignore them to help stop the behavior. They will realize begging gets them no food or attention and will eventually stop. Chewing is just a result of other issues your pooch is having. Stress, boredom, enjoyment, teething, and even separation anxiety are all reasons why dogs chew. A French Bulldog is no different. French Bulldogs are stubborn, so breaking them of chewing will be difficult, just like any other behavioral issue. So when you catch them chewing, say a shoe, take the shoe away and replace it with an acceptable chew toy. French Bulldogs are stubborn. As stubbornness is part of the French Bulldog personality, standard training practices might not work as well with this breed. There are noise-making training devices that can be very helpful. Stopping a bad habit might require more than just a stern voice. Noisemakers might be the trick. Leash Pulling All dogs have the propensity to pull when on a leash. The outside world is too interesting and exciting for them to control themselves. This is another problematic behavior to stop your stubborn little fur baby. If you allow it, pulling will continue. There are special collars and harnesses designed to help curb pulling. You have to be diligent with this training. Your puppy is excited and happy and wants to smell all of the sights and sounds around them. Friends, family, neighbors, yourself, nobody likes being jumped upon by an exuberant dog. The most effective way to deal with this behavior is to not touch them until all four paws touch the ground. When they are, instant praise should follow. Over some time, your pup will learn. Not Listening We have already said how stubborn French Bulldogs are. This is just another example. Just so you know, those giant ears work just fine. Frenchies love treats, so using them for training purposes might be very effective. You also need to be patient and consistent. Use verbal and hand commands. Remain calm but assertive. Rough Play French Bulldog puppies are playful dogs and are a ball of energy. One of their favorite pastimes is playing with balls, which they do pretty enthusiastically. Adults are more dignified and may have short bursts of energy but are known to be more couch potatoes. If you have multiple dogs, give them some space and enjoy. If not, set boundaries with their people play. When those boundaries are crossed with people or other dogs, they need to be removed from the situation until they calm down. This is not a quick process, especially for the strong-willed French Bulldog. One way to combat this is mental stimulation. Getting out and exploring the world is important to Frenchies. Early socialization, positive reinforcement , and consistency in your training technique are key aspects of training a French bulldog puppy. An adult dog tends to be harder to train but not impossible. Other Articles:. These dogs are especially popular in the US, UK and some parts of Asia, but they are gaining popularity in other parts of the world too. This article will introduce you to some of the different behaviors that French Bulldogs exhibit, which will make it easier for you to understand what your frenchie may be trying to tell you—whether it be that he needs to go out or that he just wants to play with you! Why is the French Bulldog so Unique? The French Bulldog is a small breed of domestic dog that originated in the UK and got a lot of attention in France, hence its name, but was not recognized as a breed until the s. Frenchies are well-known for their short, stubby legs. The French Bulldog was originally bred to be a companion dog and have a lot of energy. Frenchies are also known for being very friendly and easy going, making them the perfect pet. Physical Characteristics: The French Bulldog has a distinctive physical appearance. They have a short, stubby-legged body and a short, flat snout. The head is proportionately large in comparison Do French Bulldogs have behavior problems? There are some indications that French Bulldogs can be more high-energy than other dog breeds. However, many owners of French Bulldogs claim that these instincts make their animal an excellent companion. They love the attention they get from humans and other animals but this may also cause them to become overly excited. Although some owners can tolerate this, others cannot, especially when the behavioral problem affects other people and other animals too. The key to living harmoniously with your lovable Frenchie is to train them so they can learn to be disciplined, and more sociable. Can Frenchies be aggressive? These dogs were originally bred as bull-baiting dogs by English nobles and they still retain a little of their fighting instincts. French bulldogs puppies are cute and there is no doubt about that but sometimes looks can be deceiving. Although they are small in size, they are known to be very energetic, persistent and intelligent. French bulldog puppy behavior varies from one puppy to another. Make your Frenchie realize that you are in charge. Useful Tip 2: Set limits while playing Frenchies are naturally playful which is why you find them doing all they can to get your attention. Playful Frenchies are not a problem at all but when they become aggressive at play it can be painful and dangerous for you. Some Frenchies can playfully bite or nip at your toes or clothing while playing. To prevent this, start training your Frenchie not to bite you or your clothing while they are young. Useful Tip 3: Let your Frenchie socialize Your adorable Frenchie puppy may get overly excited when guests come over for a visit. It may also be aggressive when it sees other dogs or animals. One way to prevent this ill behavior is to expose them to different people, animals, places and other behaved dogs at a young age. Useful Tip 4: Be consistent When your Frenchie misbehaves, show your Frenchie your disapproval every time it misbehaves.

To ensure the safety of our readers and the right fit for a new pet, we work hard to make sure only the most trusted breeders are featured on the site. We have a dedicated team that works hard and has done extensive research that involves checking both the breeder and their dogs, to verify that the breeders featured on our site are highly reputable and trustworthy. Feedback on Google and Facebook is also taken into consideration before they are listed as a breeder to have the highest standards possible. We hope that this gives you a little more information about how we list breeders on our site. After extensive research, we came to the conclusion that there are lots of Golden Retriever breeders available in various localities in Canada. We want to make sure that only the best of the best Golden Retriever breeders are included on our list, so we went ahead and did our own research. We talked to a lot of Golden Retriever owners to get their thoughts. You can be confident that no backyard breeders or puppy mills not included on our list. Sandra pink is the owner of this breeding business and she is a member Canadian Kennel Club. All their puppies are raised in a loving home environment where they get plenty of early neurological stimulation and socialization with other animals and humans. This means that your new puppy will be well-adjusted to loud noises and new environments. The main aim of this breeder is to provide a puppy that will be a well-socialized, energetic and healthy addition to your family. At In the pink Golden Retrievers, they take great pride in their breeding program. All of the dogs in their breeding program have been carefully chosen for their ability to produce healthy offspring. They health test all of their breeding dogs and puppies for hereditary health issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia, post retinal atrophy, and subaortic stenosis. This allows us to ensure that every puppy they produce is healthy and has the best chance for long and happy life. Golden Retriever Breeder Info:. Grant, NE About Our kennel is home to several different breeds of dogs, we raise just a few of several breeds because we are fairly remote and that is what seems to work best for us. We started our kennel in and got our first state license in .Since, we have became licensed with the USDA so we can ship our puppies and sell out of state. Our dogs and puppies receive the very best health care possible from our vet, Dr. Shannon Jensen, Dr. Jensen knows all our dogs well and sees them at least one a year for a yearly check up and routine shots. We raise our puppies around cats and kids, lots of other dogs, a few goats and a variety of different people. The puppies are exposed to radio, washing machines, dryers and lots of different homey type noises going on in the whelping kennel so the pups are used to these sounds. The puppies are raised in large pens with plenty of room to play in on the inside and doggie doors that go outside to big pens for them to play in. Our backyard used to be our pride and joy but it has quite literally gone to the dogs! It is a playground on most any given day at any given time to several dogs and puppies! The adult dogs are housed either in big kennels with large indoor pens with doggie doors leading to big outside runs, or huge outside pens with warm dog houses. All of our pens have access to big play yards so they can run all they want! Contact Pankonin Farm Kennel. Goldadors are very social, intelligent, easy to train and are an excellent family companion. Our Goldadors can be anywhere from lbs. Country Retrievers With the many requests for Country Retrievers also known as Comfort Retrievers or Golden Cockers , we spent time researching the cross over the past 2 years. This year, in , we are excited to introduce our first Country Retriever puppies! Country Retrievers are a smaller version of the Golden Retriever, with the combined friendliness, loyalty, and sweet temperaments of both breeds. Throw in a dash of the comical, playful spirit of the Cocker Spaniel, and the Comfort Retriever is lovingly referred to as the Forever Puppy. Golden Retriever The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular family pets. They are playful but gentle with children. They get along well with other pets, and are friendly to family and strangers alike. The intelligent Golden Retriever is very versatile. They excel in obedience training. Our Golden Retrievers can weigh between 55 — 75 pounds. Cocker Spaniel The Cocker Spaniel is a very gentle, easy-going, yet lively companion. Cocker Spaniels love their people families, love to snuggle, play together, and give a good laugh with their antics. They repay the loving they receive in multiples of loyalty and affection. Our Cocker Spaniels come in a variety of colours and can weigh from pounds. Genetics play an important role in the health and longevity of your puppy, but environmental factors play a greater role. Things like over and under stimulation, exercise, quality of food, home environment, etc… greatly affect the health and lifespan of your puppy. The quality of the nutrition your puppy receives directly affects his health, so we strongly recommend that your pup is fed top quality dog food. To protect each dog from negative breeding experiences and puppy mill conditions, the signing of a non-breeding contract is required. Our entire business is made to ensure that no dog is kept in unethical, inhumane conditions, and we are careful in screening potential puppy families to ensure each puppy goes to the best possible home. Follow Us. Please read our dog bios carefully to be sure that the dog you are applying for suits your family and lifestyle. We at PDR believe in the benefits of post-adoption training for our dogs and their families. This allows for continued socialization, learning and helps to create a well-mannered and balanced dog. Post-adoption training is a requirement in our adoption process. Reesie came into the care due to being discarded from a local puppy mill. Reesie is very active, happy, and a loveable puppy. She will bring much love into the household. Reesie is exactly what you would expect from a Goldendoodle puppy, she is adorably goofy, friendly, super playful, and so sweet. Reesie has three modes: asleep, awake but cute and cuddly, and pure playful puppy! Doodles are mixed breed dogs and therefore exhibit a spectrum of behaviours that are present in the breeds of their parents, however there are some behavioural characteristics that are very common that people should make note of. First, Doodles have a tendency to be very social dogs that do much better with their people around and engaged with them more than not. A Doodle that is left alone for long periods of time regularly can develop depression, anxiety, become obsessive about certain activities and these can result in other destructive behaviours. Doodles also have a tendency to be high energy dogs that need an abundance of mental and physical exercise, especially as they are growing into adulthood. These are not couch potato dogs that are content with a few short walks a day. If you have a more laid back lifestyle and are a homebody, a Doodle will NOT likely be a great match for you. They are very intelligent dogs who like to work, so taking them beyond basic training is highly recommended to help them live their best life. They like to push boundaries and challenge you and many Doodle owners have claimed their dogs are always two to three steps ahead of them! I would like to make very clear here that Reesie is NOT hypoallergenic. If you are allergic to dogs and expecting to do this without sneezing you are out of luck! She will not be a suitable dog for allergy sufferers, sorry! Reesie also requires regular brushing as his fur will easily mat up if not kept up. Regular trips to the groomer to keep her nicely trimmed will also be required. There is quite a bit of upkeep with this coat type and it can become a huge mess quickly so the time and energy to keep up this type of coat will have to be taken into consideration as well. This is quite the undertaking and not something everyone wants to take on or has the time or desire to do. If you have the time and will to take on a big commitment, then Reesie just might be the right girl for you. Reesie is a very smart dog and a quick learner, she is doing a fantastic job with house training, sleeping in her crate at night and has the basic commands under her. Though she is very young she has caught on to going to the door when she needs to go potty. She loves knowing she will get a treat after. Her new humans will need to stay on top of her housetraining so she can continue with her progress. She is not very happy with her crate time during the daytime, we work on this daily and are finding that a routine is the way to go with her. Her picking up on training is going very well, she knows the commands, come, sit, down, paw. Consistent work is need on commands, so her new humans will need to dedicate time for this many times throughout the day. She can be left alone for short periods, as she does have separation anxiety. We are working with her on this daily so that when she is ready to leave to go to her forever home she will be better. She does have, and likes her night routine, getting some quite cuddle time before hand. She can sleep 6 hours through the night, as long as she does her duty right before bed. You will need to be patience with her not wanting to be in a crate especially during the day. She just wants to be with her people so much and with her energy level for her to have to hold that in for long is just not fair to her. With the energy Reesie has and the amounts she runs around now as a pup, a large yard would be important. I can see playing fetch will be a big part of her life and she would love to be able to do this in her own yard. As well will be a great helper with any yard work, or just lazing around with a toy or bone. If she does not get outside enough she will be like a toddler in the house and grab anything just to keep busy, will definitely keep you on your toes. If you try to be stern with her she looks at you with those big loving eyes that melt your heart, so you will need to be a strong leader. You will realize very quickly why the proper exercise will be a must. Reesie will require her people to be very active and athletic as she is going to need a good amount of fast paced exercise as she matures into an adult dog. She is not a dog that will be content with simple walks, this is a dog that requires running, hiking, dog sports etc in order to be sated. She needs this daily outlet of physical activity in order to be a happy, well-adjusted dog. Reesie could happily go to a home with children age 8 or older. That being said Reesie would make a fantastic companion for a family with older children as she is lots of fun and has a wonderful playful energy. Reesie is in a home with two foster siblings, that she is smitten with. She would do well in a home that has another playful dog that is male. She is a very confident female pup and will not enjoy sharing her home space with another female dog; there can only be one queen in the palace!! She is still learning her boundaries and is growing fast so a dog that will be a larger dog like her when she is fully grown is best, one that can handle a spunky pup bothering them. Her forever family will need to be confident with a large adult goofball of a dog. Reesie LOVES making her humans happy and loves being praised, will sit in front of you with a hug smile. She has conquered the come, sit, lay down commands. While working on her commands daily, we will also introduce a new command every second day, she is now working on shake and pretty sit. Out of all the puppies we have fostered I have not seen one react so fast and be so proud as Reesie when she is called. Even though she learns fast we want to remind potential adopters that she is very new to the world and so she needs guidance and support. She is a good puppy, but a puppy none the less and puppies are tiring and need constant support while they grow and navigate the world. Having previous puppy experience, or experience with a high energy dog would be a great asset for a potential adopter. Reesie likes going on walks with her foster siblings by her side and alone, but she is not fond of the leash attached to any of them. Periodically she will jump up and try to pull it. Her zig zagging is still going strong. We love taking out our puppy fosters on big adventures, so they are introduced to many things in the environment, like noises and objects. Once Reesie is older she will need a few long walks a day. She is fantastic on fetch, brings it right back to you for her next throw. If she gets the needed amount of exercise physical and mental she will be an outstanding girl. If she plays hard she will crash hard, which will be one of your favourite times with her as she loves to snuggle and cuddle. She will lay right on your lap, belly up and rubs will put her right to sleep. She is loving, goofy, and super sweet. She is clingy and curious and a companion animal through and through. We cannot wait to see Reesie in her forever home so that she can continue to give her whole heart to her people.

Recognized by both the Dog Registry of America and the American Canine Hybrid Club , this mixed breed, as with any mixed breed, will receive its traits from either one its parents, making no two Gerberian Shepsky puppies the same. Standing about 26 inches tall and weighing up to 85 pounds, this mixed breed is bound to draw attention when out for a walk. With a mixed breed, it can be hard to determine the exact look as the genetic makeup will vary, but for the most part, the head will be medium in size, with almond-shaped eyes and a lean body built for power. It's the second most popular dog breed, equipped with a domed shaped face, square-cut muzzle and extremely strong jaws. Originating in north-eastern Siberia, the breed belongs to the Spitz genetic family. Stands inches tall, with females measuring slightly less. Stands 18 to 24 inches tall, with females measuring slightly less. A Husky, for example, is known to be very friendly, calm and gentle for its owners, often leery of strangers, taking quite some time to warm up, while a German Shepherd is often considered to be more hyper, active and a lot more alert, being a lot more protective than that of a Husky. Both dogs are considered to be hardworking as this is due to their ancestry and will always want to please their owner, regardless of what it takes. Regardless of the breed mix, a puppy should be well socialized and trained at a young age to avoid troubles in the future. This mix is known to be intelligent and hardworking, showing traits from both sides of their parents. Learning commands very quickly, even with minimal training, these dogs are known to be natural pack leaders and are often considered demanding, bossy and at times, a pinch stubborn. If you avoid training, you could find yourself with a very hard to control dog in the future. Grooming Again, based on the genetics, the grooming will vary. Seeing both parents have a double, dense coat, it should be brushed at least two times per week to avoid matting and tangling, and if at all possible, a professional grooming session at least once a month. Tips to know A German Shepherd Husky is known to be a very active breed, meaning it will not be suitable for an apartment or condo-like setting. This dog tends to do best in a large, fenced-in yard where it can roam freely and stretch its legs by running from one side to the next. While a cool climate is ideal, if your dog lives in a warmer-than-average climate, then shade and water should be left out at all time and their outside time during the warmer months should be very limited. The average lifespan, combining the two breeds, can be anywhere between 10 to 15 years. Being active, these dogs can escape just about any unsecured backyard, even if you have a fence installed. Heterochromia, a unique condition found in both a Husky and German Shepherd, results in two different eye colors, and this breed has been spotted with this trait. They make great exercise partners and walk miles without tiring out. Advertising Disclosure: This content may include referral links. Please read our disclosure policy for more info. Why do you think the police force and military are using the German Shepherd so much? Sure, a Doberman can do the job just fine and there are definitely dog breeds that have stronger olfactory senses or stronger bites but they may not be willing to obey every command in every situation. They are too intelligent to outright obey everything which can sometimes be perceived as stubborn. Does that mean the German Shepherd is not smart? Absolutely not. In fact, the German Shepherd is often cited as one of the smartest dog breeds, right after their cousin the Belgian Shepherd, also known as Malinois. Their will to please outranks. How trainable is the German Shepherd Husky mix? Well, the Husky is known to be quite independent by design. So even though pairing these two very smart dog breeds makes sense at first glance, a Shepherd Husky mix might not be as easy to train as imagined. That being said, pairing a German Shepherd with a more agreeable Husky can certainly help. Genetics and temperament of the parents always play a pretty big role. This is not always the case and even a purebred may struggle with protection without proper direction and training. Always consult a professional to avoid teaching your dog negative behavior patterns barking at strangers on walks, lunging at dogs, and so on. Huskies are incredibly enduring. How could they not, they were bred to run hundreds of miles in very cold climates. But their original working purpose was quite specific and they may need to have an outlet for this desire to run. Training your dog early on will prevent behavioral issues in the future and gets your dog used to brain training. Since both breeds are relatively high energy, you need to walk your Shepsky at least twice a day for a minimum of minutes each. The German Shepherd is known to be a formidable family dog while the Husky can be quite reserved. Huskies are used to living and working in a pack and can be very sociable animals while Shepherds develop a deep bond with their owners. Although pairing these two breeds can produce great family dogs, there are other large dog breeds that are even suitable for apartment living out there that are very patient with children and also perfect for guarding property. Expect to have a very smart dog that will challenge you throughout the day. He will probably grow into a medium to large-sized dog with a weight of about 40 to 80 pounds. Both dogs are working breeds so you can expect a Shepsky to have high exercise needs. A task or daily job would keep them the happiest. Grooming Both dog breeds can have relatively similar coat types. Huskies have a thick double coat, meaning an undercoat plus guard hair. While the undercoat is soft and dense, the guard hairs are straight and somewhat smooth. Depending on the specific pairing, the coat can be a toin coss. Be ready for shedding seasons with both of these dogs. You can expect your male German Shepherd Husky mix to be in cm with a weight of lbs kg. Female German Shepherd Husky mixes range from in cm , weighing in at lbs kg. Apartment Living Can you live in an apartment with a high-energy dog like the German Shepherd Husky mix? It depends. If you provide your dog with an outlet for his exercise needs which means lots of walks, play, and training then there should be absolutely no problem. However, their tendency for high-pitched barks or howling may cause problems with your neighbors. Proper training will help and entails teaching your dog the quiet command. Would I advise you to buy a mixed breed from a breeder? Definitely not. There are far too many mixed breeds sitting in shelters and waiting to be chosen. As long as there are no health issues present in their ancestry, you could argue that mixed breeds might be healthier than purebreds from backyard breeders. Beware of backyard breeders mixing in a third breed without stating so. Make sure to check out my breeder questions before you fall victim to scammers or backyard breeders. Make sure to talk to a veterinarian or nutritionist first. Do you have a German Shepherd Husky mix? Share with us your experiences in the comments below! The resulting dog is a genetic gamble in terms of health and temperament and offers no advantage to a health-tested dog or rescuing. Disclaimer: This blog post does not substitute veterinary attention and does not intend to do so. I am not a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. If your dog shows any sign of illness, call your vet. Post navigation. Intelligent, loyal, hardworking, protective, loving, and affectionate. CONS Stubborn, needs frequent and intense exercise, needs regular grooming, and lots of potential health problems. The initial appeal of the Shepsky lies in their majestic coats, soulful eyes, and wolf-like appearance. This designer dog breed is sure to turn heads when you bring them anywhere. When do Shepsky ears stand up? While the answer may seem simple, the truth is that it can vary depending on the individual dog. For some dogs, the ears will begin to stand up soon after birth. For others, it may take a few months for the ears to fully stand up. In general, however, most Shepsky ears stand up by the time they are six months old. Some people mistakenly believe that the Husky mix should have a very narrow, pointed nose like a Siberian Husky. However, the German Shepherd has a much broader nose than the Husky, so the mix should have a broad but not overly heavy nose. What color are Gerberian Shepsky dogs? German Shepherds are traditionally brown and black, while Huskies can come in a variety of colors : white, gray, brown, red, blue, and black. The Shepsky coat color is usually mixed. Shepsky eyes can be blue, black, or brown. Since both breeds have fairly medium to thick coats, they can shed a considerable amount. If you plan on adding a Shepsky to your family, be sure to invest in a quality hair brush and vacuum to minimize the mess of their shedding. Both breeds thrive in colder climates, so if you or someone you know has dog allergies, be mindful that their shedding can exacerbate allergies. An adult male Shepsky will stand 22 to 25 inches tall and weigh 50 to 80 pounds, while an adult female Shepsky will stand 20 to 24 inches tall and weigh 40 to 70 pounds. How big does a German Shepherd Husky Mix get? Generally, Shepskies will stand 20 to 25 inches tall. Males are usually 22 to 25 inches tall, while females are usually 20 to 24 inches tall. How much does a German Shepherd Husky Mix weigh? Generally, German Shepherd Husky Mixes weigh 40 to 80 pounds. Males are usually 50 to 80 pounds, while females are usually 40 to 70 pounds. When does a Shepsky stop growing? Shepskies generally reach their full adult size by 18 months of age. How fast does a German Shepherd Husky Mix grow? However, mixed breeds can be more difficult to identify. Siberian Huskies have thick, double coats that are usually white or light in color. German Shepherds, on the other hand, have shorter coats that are typically dark brown or black. Siberian Huskies have pointed ears that stand erect, while German Shepherds have floppy ears that lay close to the head. Siberian Huskies are typically lighter and more slender than German Shepherds. They also have longer legs in proportion to their body size. This is what German Shepherd Husky Mix looks like. At least one of the many variations! Whereas Huskies are known to be vocal , independent, energetic, and highly affectionate. Both breeds develop deep, formidable bonds with their owners and are hesitant to let you out of their sight. Because of this, both breeds are known to suffer from separation anxiety. Given their size, strength, and intelligence, training is crucial. Sometimes, Shepsky mixes will adapt more of the German Shepherd personality, or vice versa, might adapt more of the Husky personality. Training and Socialization German Shepherds are more protective and have natural guard dog instincts, so socialization is very important at a young age. Huskies can sometimes be more destructive, so lots of play and physical stimulation is important at a young age. Temperaments and personalities will vary from pup to pup. This designer breed is notoriously known to have the emotional, mental, and physical capacity to go to the ends of the Earth for their owners. Look at this happy German Shepherd Husky Mix! While this varies from dog to dog, they can be absolutely wonderful in multi-pet households, and will extend their protective natures to their little dog or cat brothers and sisters. On average, you can expect your Shepsky to live between 10 and 14 years. While some Shepskies can live long, full lives completely happy and healthy, both German Shepherds and Huskies independently are prone to a variety of health issues. Are Gerberian Shepskies Smart? German Shepherds are known as the third smartest dog breed in the world, according to Stanley Coren , a professor of Canine Psychology. Scent Tracking and Quick Mastery One of the reasons German Shepherds are so intelligent is because of their ability to decipher and track scents. This is Archie, a 3 year old Husky and German Shepherd mix. Huskies: A Mix of Playfulness and Emotion Huskies are more known for their vocal personalities, hilarious antics, and outgoing natures. Also according to Stanley Coren, they rank 45th in terms of most intelligent dog breeds, tied with Bichon Frises and English Toy Spaniels. Emotional Intelligence and Communication While they may not learn tricks as quickly as other dog breeds and their curiosity can land them in peculiar situations, their smarts lie in emotional intelligence. Huskies are quick to vocalize their needs and wants to their owners. Though Huskies can be stubborn and independent, they lead with their hearts, making them the ultimate furry friends. The Shepsky: A Blend of Traits The Shepsky is relatively easy to train, but their personality and intelligence can boil down to which parent they take after more mentally. They are generally considered to be a highly intelligent crossbreed. However, all in all, you will have a naturally intelligent dog that is eager to please you as best they can! Further reading: Can a husky be a police dog? Are Gerberian Shepskies Active Dogs? Both German Shepherds and Huskies are known to be some of the most active breeds. Both breeds are incredibly active and love to run. They have a higher need for regular and vigorous physical activity than most breeds. Regular exercise will also prevent them from becoming destructive or anxious due to inactivity. Their energy levels need to be exhausted to reap the full benefits of all they have to offer as companions. Ideal for Active Individuals They are a suitable match for someone who lives a very active lifestyle. If you love to go on regular hikes or runs, the Shepsky will make an excellent and motivating workout buddy. Must read: How much exercise does a Husky need? Both German Shepherds and Huskies are known for their loving nature. They are fully committed to their families and equally protective of them. They also have a fairly high threshold for stress. They will often make wonderful companions and protectors for children. They are all-around fun-loving, sweet, and loyal. Further reading:. Large and in charge, taking the beauty and active lifestyle of both breeds, this dog is fiercely loyal and protective. So, if you are looking to add this spirited designer breed to your family, you may be wondering how much a German Shepherd Husky mix costs. Mixes with registered parents will be more expensive. We have put together a comprehensive guide to the cost of a German Shepherd Husky mix. This includes the cost of the puppy, start-up costs, feeding, and upkeep. Read on to learn more! What factors determine the price of a German Shepherd Husky mix? To determine the cost of buying a German Shepherd Husky mix, you should consider age, breeder reputation, documentation, health record, litter size, and location. Although a cheaper dog may be tempting, you may pay more in the end if the breeder has not taken good care of the dog. Age Shepskies are ready to leave their mother and littermates at about 8 weeks old. The youngest ones will be the most expensive because this is the most desirable age. As the puppy gets older, the price may become a bit cheaper. Breeders tend to have several litters of puppies staggered over time. If they have a puppy who is a few months old from a previous litter they often lower the cost of that puppy when a new litter is born. You can also rescue older Shepskies. Adult Shepskies are usually vaccinated and cost less than a puppy. They may or may not be well-trained, depending on the previous owner. Breeder reputation You will pay more for a well-known breeder. The better the breeder, the more demand there is for their dogs. So, this will cost more. Also, if the parent dogs are well-known, their puppies will also cost more. You should always check to see what kind of reputation a breeder has. Some breeders keep their puppies in poor living conditions. Look at reviews online or ask others who have completed business with them. Documentations German Shepherd Husky mixes are a fairly new designer-breed that were first bred in the s. However, it is important to get offspring from pedigreed parents. Ideally, you want a first-generation dog with one full-blood German Shepherd parent and one Siberian Husky parent. When purchasing a Shepky, ask to see the parents and their documented pedigree to assure you are getting a first-generation German Shepherd Husky mix. Second and third generations may lose much of their designer look. They can also be less healthy because of selective breeding. Health record A dewormed and vaccinated puppy will cost more than one that is not, but this cost is worth it in the end. If you get your puppy without these medical checks, you will have to get them on your own. The vet bills will end up costing you about as much, if not more than the additional adoption cost. If you adopt Shepsky puppies from a shelter, they often go ahead and neuter them, which will be factored into the cost. Also, reputable breeders screen their parent dogs and their puppies for health defects, which ensures you have a healthier dog. These costs get transferred to the buyer, but they are worth every cent. Location Some places have a higher cost of living, and as such, the cost of a Shepsky will be higher in those places. Also, if you travel a long distance to get your dog, you may have to factor in those costs. In general, both the German Shepherd and the Husky are pretty popular breeds, so their offspring are usually readily available in most locations. You can check local breeders and online pet-finding sites to find Shepskies near you. Litter size Larger litter sizes are usually more difficult for the breeder to sell. So, if you can find a breeder who has a large litter size, they may give you a deal. You can also sometimes negotiate with a breeder to adopt two puppies for a slightly cheaper price than getting each one individually. This can help you save on the overall cost of the adoption, and it will give your puppy a companion. Coat color Shepsky puppies come in a variety of color patterns, but generally, they have a combination of two colors. These can be black, white, cream, brown, red, or blue. Most people prefer German Shepherd Huskies which have a combination of white and another color, which may drive up the cost of that particular coat color. Gender Female dogs usually cost more than males, whether you are getting a puppy or an adult. Females cost more because they are able to provide many litters of puppies throughout their lifetime. Since they can get pregnant, they will have more medical costs throughout their lives. Even the process of spaying a female is more costly and invasive, adding to the cost of the female. Males will be slightly cheaper. How much should you expect to pay for a German Shepherd Husky mix? However, prices will vary according to how popular Shepskies are in your area. Papers refer to the proof that the parents were registered as purebred dogs. This ensures you are getting what you are paying for. However, this is not an ideal place to adopt from. You would risk getting an unhealthy dog. Price of Shepsky adults Instead of buying a puppy, you can opt for adopting an adult Shepksy. Adult dogs will already be trained, easy to fit into a busy lifestyle, and cost less both initially and in the long run. You can find these at local shelters. There may be listings for them on pet rehoming sites, as well. These dogs will already be neutered and have had vaccinations. The only downside is you may not be able to verify whether they are first-generation Shepskies. The start-up costs will be the most expensive, afterwards, the ongoing costs will be more affordable. How do German Shepherd Husky mixes behave around strangers? This unique hybrid breed showcases the majestic appearance of the German Shepherd and the striking blue eyes and fluffy coat of the Husky, resulting in a truly captivating and head-turning dog. One of the most remarkable aspects of the German Shepherd Husky mix is their exceptional intelligence. These dogs are highly trainable and excel in various activities, making them ideal for obedience training, agility competitions, and even search and rescue operations. Their innate intelligence, coupled with their natural loyalty and protective instincts inherited from both parent breeds, makes them an excellent choice for families seeking a devoted and vigilant companion. When it comes to energy levels, the Gerberian Shepsky is an active and energetic breed. They thrive in environments where they have ample opportunities for exercise, mental stimulation, and socialization. Long walks, engaging play sessions, and challenging puzzle toys are all essential to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Their energy levels and need for social interaction and mental stimulation require dedicated and committed owners who can provide them with the time and attention they deserve. Early socialization and consistent, positive training are also crucial to ensure they grow into well-behaved and balanced adults. These charming pups inherit a variety of physical and behavioural characteristics from their parents, creating a wonderful blend of intelligence, loyalty, and playful energy. With their striking appearance, fluffy coats, and captivating eyes, Gerberian Shepsky puppies are guaranteed to win over the hearts of dog enthusiasts everywhere. Get ready to be charmed by these delightful and captivating companions. These dogs possess a captivating blend of coat colours, temperaments, and physical features. Their fur can be solid black or may have some white markings. Red German Shepherd Husky Mix: This type displays a reddish hue in their coat, which can range from light to deep shades. They often have striking blue or multicoloured eyes inherited from their Husky parent. The colours blend together to create a stunning and unique coat pattern. White German Shepherd Husky Mix: This type showcases a predominantly white coat, which is often complemented by markings or patches of other colours, such as black or gray. Their striking appearance is further enhanced by their piercing blue eyes. This type is reminiscent of their Husky lineage. They have a plush double coat that requires regular grooming and can come in various colours. Combining the strong and muscular build of the German Shepherd with the elegant features of the Husky, these dogs typically have a medium to large size. Their coats come in various colours like black, red, sable, and white, often with stunning markings. One of their most captivating features is their mesmerizing blue eyes, inherited from the Husky parent. Prepare to be enchanted by the striking and unique look of Gerberian Shepsky. However, they are generally intelligent, alert, and loyal dogs. They exhibit traits from both parent breeds, such as the protective nature of German Shepherds and the independent spirit of Huskies. They are known to be loving and affectionate with their families, but they can also be reserved or aloof with strangers until properly socialized. Early socialization and training are essential to shape their temperament positively. Behaviour of German Shepherd Husky Mix German Shepherd Husky mixes are energetic and active dogs that require regular exercise and mental stimulation. These dogs excel in obedience, agility, and even working roles like search and rescue, thanks to their working dog heritage. However, their strong prey drive means proper supervision and training are essential when around smaller animals. Keep these considerations in mind to ensure a happy and well-adjusted Gerberian Shepsky. However, prices can go higher for puppies from reputable breeders with exceptional lineage and desirable traits.

Sleeping Positions In this article: Have you ever closely monitored your dog's sleeping position? They, too, have different sleeping positions, just like us humans. The way your little furry ball rests can tell you a lot about its behavior, personality, and a lot more. Dog sleeping positions are cute, pleasing to the eyes, and, more importantly, informative about a dog's mental and physical state. Curious to know what these dog positions mean? We have covered everything you need to know about your beloved pet in our detailed guide. Let's get started with the meaning of different dog sleeping positions. The section below describes the various sleeping positions of dogs. The Side Sleeper The side sleeper is the most popular sleeping position in dogs. In this position, Dogs lie on the side with their legs extended. Dogs feel very safe and comfortable in this position as their vital organs are exposed. Meaning This position means that the dogs are safe, relaxed, and easygoing. It also means that the dogs are in familiar surroundings and are at a comfortable temperature. The Superman This position refers to the dog sleeping on its stomach with front legs stretched forward, and back legs stretched behind. This position is widespread with puppies who are energetic and playful. Meaning Dogs who sleep in this position are tired but ready to play in a blink of an eye. Puppies tend to take a nap during their play session in this position. The Lion's Pose This position is also known as 'the sphinx. The dogs can also sleep in this position by tucking their paws and resting their back legs on the side. Meaning This position means that the dog is sleeping but is ready to take off immediately if required. Experts suggest that dogs use this position when they want to sleep but want to be prepared to jump at a moment's notice. The Donut The Donut is possibly one of the cutest dog sleeping positions. The dog sleeps curled up in a ball in this position, with legs held close to its body. At times their nose even touches the back legs, and the tail also curls over the body. Meaning A dog sleeping in this position means protecting themselves from the surroundings and adjusting themselves to the temperatures. This position is common to stray dogs and dogs who are new to their surroundings. The Cuddler Bug The Cuddler bug is the most adorable dog sleeping position. The dog prefers to sleep on top of a person or another dog cuddled up in this position. If you want to cuddle with your dog, this position is for you. Meaning This position is a sign of love, affection, and bonding and that your dog wants to get closer to you or another dog. Head and Neck Raised This position refers to a dog lying with its head and neck raised. Dogs use the side of the bed or cushion for this position. Meaning This position means that the dog might have breathing issues, which allows them to get more air. On the Tummy Dogs sleep on tummy on a cold surface when they tend to feel hot. This position is similar to Lion's pose. Meaning This position means that the dog is feeling hot and adjusting the temperature by sleeping on a cold surface, whether it be a kitchen surface or a pavement. On the Back The back position refers to your dog laying down on its back with its belly up and legs in the air. This position might seem uncomfortable or a funny dog sleeping position, but it is one of the most comfortable position for the dogs. Meaning The dogs sleeping in this position suggest that they trust you and are familiar with the environment. This position also means that dog body heat is more and this position allows maximum air passage to all the body parts. Back to Back This position is similar to the Cuddler position. In this position, the dog places its back against the back of another dog or you. Meaning When a dog sleeps in this position, it means that they are showing love and affection. This position indicates a sense of intimacy in the dog. The Burrower You might have come across dogs snuggled in a piece of cloth, blanket , or pillows. The burrower refers to dogs who get cutely draped in fabric or cushions. Meaning The Burrower Bug position means that dogs are searching for comfort and security. Dog Sleeping Behaviour You may come across different behaviors of dogs or dog sleep patterns. Although it has nothing to do with their personality, it can tell you a lot about their sleep quality. Dreaming: Just like us humans, dogs also dream. Generally, they imagine what happened during the day. Barking: Dog Barking in sleep is entirely normal and nothing to worry about; it might be because of a weird dream. Twitching: Dogs twitch during their sleep. According to experts, the main reason that dogs twitch in sleep is that they are dreaming. There is nothing to worry about if your dog is twisting and running in his or her sleep. It could be because of the breathing issues they could be facing or because of that short little nose of his. Running: Don't worry the next time you see the legs of your dog moving while they are sleeping on the side. They might be running a marathon or catching a thief in their dream. Digging: We simply love to see our dogs circle and the extra mud, grass, or snow. But have you ever imagined why? Because of their ancestors- wolves, who used to clear the excess soil to sleep comfortably. Check out our blog on Should you Be sleeping with your dog , to understand the different aspects of sleeping with your best friend. Nectar Dog Bed Designed with strength and comfort in mind, this dog bed will make Fido one happy pup. This amazing pet bed is water resistant, chew-proof and has a non-slip bottom to resist movement. The raised bolster and memory foam provides a cuddly resting place for your best friend. Do dogs sleep all day? Adult dogs sleep 12—14 hours a day. However, the hours of sleep vary based on their type of dog, age, daily activity, and built. You might be wondering why do dogs sleep so much? The smaller ones or Puppies sleep a lot more, up to 20 hours a day. Your dog's sleeping habits can tell a lot about their mental and physical well-being. Experts suggest that a dog sleeping more or less than usual or in an unusual position might be an indication of an illness, and you need to consult your vet immediately. The sleeping habits of your dog also depend on the type of environment you provide them for sleeping. Ensuring a good dog bed , some fluffy toys, cold temperatures, and some food and water nearby can help your dog with a fantastic sleep. The Final Word By now, you might have understood various dog sleeping positions, patterns, and behaviors. As a Dog lover, it is significant for you to help your beloved pet get a sound sleep. You need to build a perfect setting by choosing the right bed, lights, temperatures, toys, and food to get your dog the best sleep possible. This article is for informational purposes and should not replace advice from your doctor or other medical professional. They sleep between hours a day. Sometimes even more than that. However, as their age increases, their sleeping time decreases. Dogs sleeping with owners is also a sign of care, love, affection, and a never-ending bond. Here are a few things to take notice of when your dog is sleeping and what they might mean. Get to the vet if anything seems off. Advertisement Below are some common sleeping positions and what they might mean. On the side Photo credit: Getty Images A dog who sleeps on their side feels safe and comfortable, as this position leaves the vital organs exposed. Dogs who favor this position tend to be pretty easy-going and relaxed. This position also leaves their limbs free to move during sleep, so you may see more twitching and leg kicks. Curled up Photo credit: Getty Images A very common position dogs take when sleeping is to curl up in a ball. This position protects the vital organs, helps conserve warmth, and makes it easy to get up quickly. It restricts movement during sleep, so you may see less twitching from a dog who snoozes in a ball. You might think that a dog who sleeps in this position would be uncomfortable in their surroundings. Also, it may just simply feel better for a particular dog to sleep in that position. It allows for a dog to pop up and be on their paws right away. On the back, paws up in the air Photo credit: Getty Images In the opposite way curling in a ball conserves heat, sleeping with an exposed belly helps a dog cool off. Since the fur is thinner around the belly and the paws hold the sweat glands, exposing these areas is a great way to beat the heat. This position is common in the summer months. Back-to-back or snuggled up Photo credit: Getty Images You may catch your dog sleeping back-to-back with your other pets or snuggling up to you. Either way, it means the same thing. Your dog is bonding and showing that they want to get close to you or their furry siblings. Try showing your love in return by taking a snooze with your pup. Sleeping behaviors Photo credit: Getty Images Once your dog is napping, you may get some clues about the quality of their sleep from their behavior. Sleep is important for healing and repairing the body, and REM sleep, which is the deepest stage of sleep, is the most restorative. Pay attention to these signs and behaviors to make sure your dog is getting the best sleep possible. They might also dig a hole that would help keep them warm in winter or cool in summer. Though dogs tend to circle a few times before lying down, doing it too much or having trouble settling in might be a sign of pain, arthritis, or a neurological issue. Consult a vet if you notice excessive circling. This is not a very restful sleep, and your dog may just be waiting for something more interesting to come along. This probably means that your dog is still fairly alert and looking for something worth getting up for. They could very well be acting out their dreams, but they are getting a nice, deep sleep. Twitching, tail wagging, leg kicks, and occasional barks or grunts are common. This is a good time to let sleeping dogs lie. This stage of sleep is very restorative and good for their health. Movement during sleep is actually more frequent in puppies and senior dogs for unknown reasons. A less common reason for twitching during sleep is if a dog is cold. If your dog is cold, get a blanket or move them to a warmer sleeping place. Signs of distress Photo credit: Getty Images Like humans, dogs can have nightmares. If your dog seems particularly agitated during sleep with more movement, barks, or whimpers than usual, you can try gently calming your pup down. Call their name softly and stroke their back or side. Use soothing tones. If you notice your dog frequently seems agitated during sleep, you may want to schedule a vet visit to be on the safe side. Seizure Photo credit: Getty Images When twitching gets excessive, it could be a sign of a seizure that requires immediate medical attention. If they wake up, it may have just been an intense dream. Amount of sleep Photo credit: Getty Images Dogs sleep a lot more than people do. On average, dogs need about 12 to 14 hours of sleep a day. Big dogs tend to take longer naps than smaller dogs. Puppies need about 18 to 19 hours of sleep a day, usually waking up for an hour after every few hours of sleep. If you notice a change in how long your dog sleeps, it could mean a lot of things from a dietary change to a thyroid problem. If your dog is spending too much time napping, it could be time for a vet visit. By Janelle Leeson. Reviewed by Sandra C. Patrik Holmboe , head veterinarian at Cooper Pet Care. The Side Sleeper A common sleeping position for humans, dogs also enjoy sleeping on their sides with their limbs extended and their bellies partly exposed. Because bellies are a vulnerable part of the body , this sleeping position generally indicates a pup feels calm and content, Holmboe says. It lets them sprawl in comfort and offers orthopedic support. The Lion Pose In the lion pose, sometimes called the sphinx pose, pups who are just falling asleep and want to stay alert might sleep belly down with their head perched on their front paws. Lion-pose pups are alert, loyal, and caring toward their families. To keep your pup comfortable, give them a cozy place to rest their paws, like the Frisco Quilted Orthopedic Bed. Stomach down with back legs straight out behind them and front legs stretched forward, these pups are just as silly as their sleeping position. However, as dogs age, they may switch to another posture, such as the side sleeper, since belly-up sleeping can put pressure on the spine. It also has heat-dissipating cooling gel, just in case your pup is in the belly up pose to cool down. The Doughnut Curled up in a tight ball, dogs in the doughnut pose have their limbs tucked close to their bodies, their nose near the tail. These pups are sweet and caring, but they tend to be reserved around strangers or are settling into their new homes. This posture also traps body heat, so a curled-up canine might be cold. So, if this is an unusual position for your dog, keep an eye on them and consider scheduling a check-up with your veterinarian. These pups tend to love everyone they meet, furry or not, and might be called Velcro dogs by some. Dogs should have a bed to call their own. Dogs sleep a lot 16—20 hours per day for puppies! Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? Back-to-back with another person or animal On something cold Head propped up on something Now let's dive into each sleep position below. If your dog sleeps on their side a lot, good news! This body language typically means they are relaxed, comfortable, and trusting of their environment. Dogs who tire themselves out from playing usually fall asleep in the Superman — and are ready to pop up for more playing at the drop of a hat. Cuddling to sleep means exactly what you think it does for your dog. Dogs most commonly use this sleeping position to , since dogs release heat through their paws. But some dog behavior experts believe that back-to-back cuddling is a sign of intimacy. Dog behavior specialist Jen Jones has observed that dogs tend to sleep back to back with those they feel safest with and trust the most. If your dog snuggles up with its back toward you, consider it a badge of honor. This sleeping position is pretty straightforward: your dog is hot and is trying to cool down. Just make sure your dog has access to water and does not appear to be overheated. In some cases, it could be a sign that they are having issues breathing properly. Keep an eye out for fast breathing rates, noisy breathing, or getting out of breath easily — contact your vet if you see any of these signs in your dog. Here are some. You probably have more pictures of your dog sleeping stored on your phone than is socially acceptable. With the variety of adorable dog sleeping positions our fur-children settle into, who could blame you? Dogs get around hours of sleep a day. Puppies, around 1 hours. Common Dog Sleeping Positions Common dog sleeping positions vary from a tightly curled-up donut to a fully splayed-out sploot. Each position your pooch sleeps in is adorable, and each can tell you a little something about how they are feeling. The Burrower If your pup loves to retreat under blankets, pillows, and even fresh laundry for a nap, then your dog is a burrower. Dogs who love to burrow are seeking warmth, comfort, and safety. The Best Friends by Sheri burrow dog bed was specifically designed for dogs who love to burrow. The Cozy Cuddler bed comes with an attached blanket lined with soft faux fur your pup can cuddle under for a night of deep sleep. The Superman aka The Sploot, aka Frogging A splooter lays on its stomach with its front legs and back legs stretched out and flat. Made famous on the internet by corgis and bulldogs, any dog or cat can sleep in this position. A high-energy adult dog might do this mid-fetch for a little break as well. The Donut Donut sleepers curl up into a little ball for a snooze. This means they are regulating their body temperature while protecting their vital organs. Making themselves as small as possible in a donut position avoids leaving them vulnerable to potential predators. Naturally, donut-style sleepers love donut dog beds. The Calming Donut Dog Bed is designed for these types of sleepers who want to rest in a snug, warm, and comfy spot. This sleeping behavior indicates your dog is just getting started falling asleep, so he can wake easily. As sleep sets in, your doggie might roll over on his side for deeper rest. The Side Sleeper Dr. This sleeping position indicates that the dog is very relaxed and comfortable in his surroundings. Often, dogs dream and reach REM sleep in this pose. A nap mat dog bed is ideal for side sleepers. He could also be trying to cool off. The Cuddler Cuddling has to be one of the cutest dog sleeping patterns. Dogs who love to sleep next to you or cuddled up against another dog seek that sense of security and warmth they had as puppies with their mother. The deep crevices and soft vegan fur are there to mimic that feeling of protection during puppyhood. Plus memory foam-like fibers are great for older dogs or large dogs with joint problems. Dogs who settle into a cuddle position are getting their best sleep ever. Dogs do, of course, sleep a lot more than we do. Older dogs require more sleep just because they tire out more easily and, as a general rule, bigger breeds also spend more time dozing. It could be a sign of an underlying health condition. The following dog beds can accommodate any type of sleeper. This innovative cuddler shag design provides better sleep, supports joints, and offers a calming, self-warming effect. The donut cuddler is carefully crafted with durable, vegan nylon and filled with AirLoft fibers,….

Breeds The link has been copied! Few dogs are as intelligent and loyal as German Shepherds. With its athletic build and remarkable drive, this working breed makes excellent companions, herding dogs, police K-9s, and therapy animals. How much does a German Shepherd cost? The price of a German Shepherd puppy can vary a lot from one breeder to another. German Shepherds are active and need plenty of stimulation. Flea and tick preventatives are a must-have. You might face additional costs such as pet insurance, training classes, boarding fees, or dog walkers. Puppies tend to cost more due to the high demand. However, professional breeders charge a lot more. Professional breeders usually conduct health testing for the parents. Elbow and hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy are the two main tests to look for when adopting a GSD puppy. Prenatal care for the mother can be expensive. These costs can include bloodwork, ultrasounds, and X-rays. Most breeders raise the puppies for the first eight to 12 weeks. They provide nutrition, a living space, socialization, and sometimes early training. Puppies typically receive veterinary care, including a first round of booster shots and a deworming treatment. Colors German Shepherds can come in a few different colors. Black and tan and black and cream are the most common GSD colors. However, there are rarer colors, like black and silver, sable, or black. These colors meet the official breed standards, and a puppy with an unusual color can be worth more. Bloodline and Purity One of the key factors that influences the cost of a GSD puppy is the parents and their pedigrees. A breeder will look at how well the parents match the AKC breed standards. Both parents should be the right height and color. They should have a muscular morphology and the proper head shape. Breeders who are able to trace the ancestry of a litter over several generations and document that all the ancestors are purebred GSDs will charge more. You should also expect to pay more if a breeder can provide health testing information over several generations. Titles are another important factor. Show dogs can receive V, VA, or VA1 titles if they do well at an event and judges determine they meet all the standards of the breed. An IGP3 title indicates that a dog can protect its owner. Parents with IGP or IPO titles produce puppies that are worth more since breeders consider these animals to have excellent potential for training. A breeder who has an excellent reputation and many positive online reviews will attract more prospective dog owners and can afford to charge more. You can protect your dog with a microchip, but there are other steps you can take. The Fi GPS tracking dog collar helps you keep your dog safe. The design is highly resistant and waterproof for durability, and the collar comes with a battery that lasts three months. You can track your pet anywhere and locate them easily if they get lost. There are a few things you should know about this working breed. Personality of the German Shepherd German Shepherds are fiercely loyal. They make excellent guard dogs thanks to their protective instincts. They also make amazing pets who will give you lots of affection. GSDs are reliable and hardworking dogs who thrive if you constantly give them new tasks and challenges. These dogs are extremely versatile. German Shepherds have amazing potential and tend to do extremely well in training thanks to their drive and intelligence. However, they require consistent training and handling since they can be mouthy, chase prey, or become overprotective without the right training. Size and Weight German Shepherds are medium to large dogs. When it comes to weight, a healthy male will weigh 66 to 88 lbs. Lifestyle and Activity Levels German Shepherds are a working breed. Their origin dates back to the 19th century when dog breeder Max Von Stephanitz developed a new dog by breeding different herding dogs. Like all shepherds, GSDs have a strong need to stay active. Due to their athletic build, these dogs need at least two hours of exercise every day. Going for walks might not be sufficient. Your GSD will thrive if you provide plenty of opportunities to use their athletic abilities, including jumping, swimming, or running. Approximate Lifetime Care Costs The total cost of owning a German Shepherd is difficult to estimate since every animal is different. German Shepherds can be expensive. Here are a few tips to help you lower the cost. Look for a breeder who cares about the animals and who does health testing on the parents, but everything else is extra. You should also consider adopting a dog with an unknown lineage. Check local shelters or go online to look at classified ads. Check classified ads to find owners rehoming their pets. If you decide to get a German Shepherd, think about using the Fi GPS dog collar to keep your dog safe, and make sure you can bring your puppy home if she gets lost. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Apart from recurring costs such as dog food, toys, and grooming essentials, a great chunk of your finances must go to routine veterinary care and pet insurance. Annual check-ups should be done on adult German Shepherds to check their physical condition and ensure they are healthy dogs. This involves listening to the heart and checking the ears and eyes. The typical lifespan of a GSD is 7 to 10 years. Other Potential Expenses Owning a dog is already comparable to parenthood. German Shepherds, much like any other dog breed, have other needs that go beyond food, water, and shelter. Your dog will be watched over, fed, and socialized with other dogs. Grooming Services: For your GSD to have a well-maintained coat and appearance, you should take them to a professional grooming salon. They will be cleaned, trimmed, and pampered as they deserve. Emergency Treatment: Dogs grow up so fast. As your German Shepherd puppy gets older, they are more prone to health issues like hip dysplasia. Sudden injuries can also happen that will require immediate medical attention and treatment. This will allow them to join various dog shows and other competitions. Places to Find German Shepherd Puppies for Sale and Adoption Once you plan everything out financially, you are ready to find places where you can buy your German Shepherd puppy. Cheap German Shepherd dogs can be bought from puppy mills or a backyard breeder. Buying from responsible breeders is the best option to get healthy puppies that will grow up to be strong adult dogs. To help on your quest, here is a list of breeders certified by the American Kennel Club that offer high-quality German Shepherd puppies: Vom Ragnar German Shepherds — This is a small kennel located in Illinois dedicated to breeding show-quality German Shepherds with sound temperament and the best condition because they have their puppies undergo health testing. This breeder strives to match their GSD pups to the most suited families. Mittelwest German Shepherds — As a well-renowned breeder, the owner ensures that they only produce show-quality German Shepherd puppies that can serve as show dogs, guard dogs, K-9, and much more. They also import and ship their dogs worldwide. West Coast German Shepherds — If you are located in California, this breeder can offer you a health-tested German Shepherd puppy coming from the best bloodlines. Buying the cheapest puppies online seems tempting, especially if you are on a budget, but you might spend more in the future due to medical expenses. To easily distinguish a responsible breeder from a puppy mill or backyard breeder, check out our puppy buying guide. Are you considering adopting a German Shepherd instead of buying from a breeder? If you are, this list can help you find the perfect GSD pup for you: German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions — Based in North Carolina, this non-profit organization was established to protect and promote the German Shepherd breed. German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County — This volunteer organization is all about placing unwanted, neglected, and abused German Shepherds into permanent, loving homes. Applicants are encouraged to meet up with their chosen dog prior to adoption. Matching their rescue dogs to a suitable owner is their top priority, along with the restoration of their health. For more chances of finding your lifelong companion, check out this list of the 10 best German Shepherd rescues. You can surely find one in your location! Adoption is the cheapest alternative to getting a German Shepherd Dog, and this is more suggested than buying from backyard breeders. Buy high-quality items. You will spend more on replacing them rather than having good products that can last for a longer time. Purchase supplies in bulk. When buying food or treats for your pup, make sure to stock up by buying them in bulk. This can save you a lot of money than buying small bags of kibble or cans of wet food. Keep your dog in excellent shape. To avoid expensive veterinary bills, keep your German Shepherd puppy fit and healthy. Do this by feeding them high-quality dog food equipped with the right nutrients. Groom your GSD at home. Instead of going to a professional groomer, learn to groom your German Shepherd puppy at home. All you need to do is buy the basic grooming tools and research how to groom your dog effectively. Plan your finances accordingly so no one will have to suffer in the long run. They are highly intelligent and loyal dogs that will protect you at all costs. Buying one from a reputable breeder is worth the hefty purchase price than purchasing from backyard breeders or puppy mills. On another note, you can adopt from a local rescue organization, but make sure to ask about any current health conditions that the dog may have. Aside from the financial aspect, make sure you are prepared for the full responsibility of being a German Shepherd puppy owner. Now you know how much German Shepherds cost, are you ready to own one? Share your thoughts in the comments below. 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. German Shepherds are considered healthy dogs that can live many years. You must be able to pay for these dogs every month of their lives. For the most part, providing your dog with a lot of exercise and high-quality food will prevent the dog from developing unforeseen health issues. You will need to buy a dog-safe toothpaste, dog-safe shampoo, and certain medications, such as heartworm prevention, to keep your dog healthy its entire life. Not only do you have to feed your German Shepherd a lot of food, but you want to feed your dog food that is high quality and healthy. As long as your dog does not have any known illnesses or issues, you should not have to pay monthly prices. At the minimum, you should take your German Shepherd for an annual visit, assuming it is healthy. You also need to pay for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. Most of these medications last for 1 to 3 months at a time. It is completely up to you whether or not you decide to get pet insurance. If you are interested in getting health insurance for your new pet, Lemonade offers customizable insurance plans and responsive customer service. If you do not want to pay for pet insurance, you can simply set up a savings account instead. So long as you have a house and a yard for your dog to play, the home environment is generally suitable for dogs. Some environmental maintenance things you will need to buy include doggie bags. You need these if you take your dog for a walk or if you have a yard that you have to maintain. You may also need to pay for carpet cleaner, deodorizer, and other items to keep the house clean, despite your heavy shedding German Shepherd. This means that your German Shepherd can help you out when you are in a pinch, but it also means that you need to provide your German Shepherd ample entertainment, or else your dog could become destructive. At the very minimum, you need to buy heavy-duty toys for your German Shepherd. German Shepherds can be really rough with their toys. So, we recommend some sort of brand specific for rough-playing dogs, such as Kong. These boxes will offer toys, treats, and more for your dog, but these boxes can be pretty expensive too. Additional Costs to Factor In In addition to initial costs and monthly payments, there are some other additional factors you need to think about. For starters, obedience training is really important for dogs of this size. Obedience training can be a bit expensive at first, but it will be worth it in the long run. You need to pay for a pet sitter or kennel whenever you go on vacations and your dog does not come with you. If you are buying a German Shepherd puppy, you may also have to pay to replace or fix items the puppy damages. Think about accidents or unforeseen illnesses too. These can cost a whole lot in vet visits. Owning a German Shepherd on a Budget If you want a German Shepherd but are worried about destroying your budget, there are ways that you can own one of these wonderful dogs without spending a fortune either. Unfortunately, there is little you can change about the price of these dogs up front, but you can save on the monthly expenses. The most important tip for taking care of a German Shepherd on a budget is to know when to splurge. When it comes to dog food, make sure to select high-quality food. This will be more expensive upfront, but it will ensure that your dog is healthy for as long as possible, resulting in fewer bills. Splurging on heavy-duty toys is another great idea. These toys will cost more at first, but they should last much longer than cheap ones. For instance, there are a lot of coupons and promo codes you can use when purchasing toys, food, and other items for your German Shepherd. Even if you find coupons, only spend money on the essentials. Not to mention, buy crates and beds that are suitable for the dog as it grows. Many people make the mistake of buying crates and beds suitable for the puppy, but the puppy soon outgrows them. The initial cost primarily accounts for the dog itself and any other items required when bringing the dog home for the first time. Even after the German Shepherd has made your home its home, you will still have to pay some pretty hefty bills for the remainder of its life. Although the initial and monthly costs for this dog are a bit high, they are required for this dog to live a happy life. If you cannot afford to provide a German Shepherd the sort of life it needs and deserves, simply do not get a German Shepherd. If your breeder had not run these genetic tests on your dog—or if you adopt a German Shepherd from a rescue or shelter, you can run the Embark Dog DNA Test using a simple saliva test you can perform at home. Dogs with CLAD, type III typically exhibit symptoms such as recurrent ear infections, skin infections, pneumonia, and other respiratory infections. Dogs with DM first lose coordination in their hind legs, then they lose muscle mass and eventually the ability to walk. It is caused by a lack of one of the proteins needed for blood to clot properly. Dogs with hemophilia A will often suffer from uncontrolled bleeding, most commonly into the joints. Uric acid is a waste product that is normally eliminated from the body through the kidneys. When the kidneys are not able to remove enough uric acid, it builds up in the blood and can cause health problems. Dogs with hyperuricosuria are at risk for developing bladder stones, kidney stones, and other health problems. P-glycoprotein is involved in the transport of drugs and other molecules across cell membranes. Drugs that are known to cause adverse reactions in MDR1 dogs include digoxin, ivermectin, loperamide, and milbemycin. There are several different types of MPS, each caused by a deficiency in a specific enzyme needed to break down mucopolysaccharides. It is caused by a genetic mutation that impairs the ability of the blood to clot properly. This can lead to frequent and sometimes severe bleeding events which can be difficult to control, even with the help of medications. Dogs with this condition are at an increased risk for bleeding and may require lifelong monitoring and medical management. Symptoms include weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, and increased water consumption. Affected dogs have problems with the development of their skin, hair, nails, and teeth. They may also have problems with sweating and the function of their tears and salivary glands. Dogs with this disorder usually have a very thin coat of hair, often with areas that are bald or have very thin hair. Their skin may be dry and cracked, and they may develop sores on their skin. Nails may be abnormally shaped or missing altogether, and teeth may be missing or poorly developed. Dogs with X-linked ectodermal dysplasia often experience overheating. Attend a sanctioned dog show and talk with breeders and competitors for recommendations. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations regarding reputable breeders. Check the Facebook page of the breeder and read through the comments. Remember, however, that comments can be deleted by the page owner. The breeder should be happy to share the name and contact information for customers. Ask questions. Lots of questions. The breeder should be glad to share the test results from the health tests and screenings and should be happy to let you meet at least the mother if not the sire as well of the German Shepherd Dog puppies. Ask how often the dogs are bred. Ask to tour the kennels. Are they well maintained? Do the dogs look healthy? Beware of operations that will not let you tour the kennels and breeders that want to meet you in a parking lot to hand over the puppy. Be prepared for questions. The breeder should ask YOU questions as well; be suspicious if the breeder has no questions about your past history with pets, your living situation, etc. The breeder should want to know how much experience you have with herding breeds, what your training plans are and your plans for exercising the dog. Ask if the breeder will take the German Shepherd puppy—or adult dog—back if necessary. Ask for a contract. If medical problems are diagnosed, the breeder should readily take the pup back and provide a full refund. German Shepherd breeders may adopt out of the area but, nonetheless, you will want to go to the breeder to meet the parents, view the kennels and bring home your puppy in person. This will add to your expenses—but breeders that transport a puppy by air are putting the dog at risk. If you want to buy a German Shepherd Dog from an online breeder, please think again. There are numerous scams; people spend thousands of dollars for a dog and never receive a puppy. AKC warns potential pet parents to be wary of any seller asking for payment by Venmo, in gift cards or as a wire transfer. Dogs purchased from puppy mills can mean years of heartache and expensive veterinary care—and perpetuation of a cruel industry. The pros of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder: You may be able to select a puppy—including a choice of gender. A reputable breeder will be passionate about German Shepherds and will a resource for years to come. The cons of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder You will pay far more for a cattle dog from a breeder than a rescue or shelter. If you find a breeder who has German Shepherd puppies for sale at prices much lower than you are seeing from other breeders, you must suspect you are dealing with a backyard breeder who has not done health screening, with an online seller who is operating a puppy mill or with someone who is running a scam. You will need to wait until puppies are available. You will need to do your own due diligence to select a reputable breeder. German Shepherd Dogs in rescues are far less expensive that those at a breeder. Puppies under a year old will be the most costly. This group provides funding to a network of GSD rescues — they do not have dogs themselves for adoption. They have a list of affiliated rescues that can help located adoptable GSDs in your region. A breed rescue is, like the name suggests, a pet rescue that is specifically for one breed of dog. These are generally small non-profit groups that operate through a foster system of volunteers who love the breed. German Shepherd rescues specialize in German Shepherds of all ages; some have primarily purebred German Shepherds while others may also have adoptable Belgian Malinois and Dutch Shepherds. How to Find Breed Rescues Along with the list mentioned above, many breed rescues list their adoptable dogs on large adoption sites such as:. Deworming Spaying or neutering If you were to add up the cost of all of these services separately, and not part of an all-inclusive adoption fee, the price tag would invariably be considerably higher. Additionally, you can also feel good about adopting a GSD puppy from a shelter, as the proceeds acquired through adoption fees are used to help support the shelter from which you adopted the puppy. This allows a shelter to continue to rescue new animals and relocate them in safe homes. One potential downside to adoption is the time and effort that it may take you to find the right pup for you. Unlike a breeder who is able to provide you with rather specific dates, there is no telling when a new GSD puppy may be available through a shelter. Additionally, purebred GSD puppies tend to be adopted out very quickly, so if you choose this option you must be very diligent and persistent. Be prepared to make lots of phone calls on a daily basis, as it is unlikely that a shelter will call you specifically when the puppy you want arrives, as many others will undoubtedly have the same request. This is because purebred dogs that are ethically raised by responsible breeders are expensive to breed in general. Also, in contrast to a purebred shelter puppy that spends a short portion of its life at the shelter prior to adoption, a breeder must pay all of the costs associated with raising an entire litter for a minimum of 8 weeks, as is mandated by law in many states. Next comes the cost of pre-breeding health checks performed on both parents, prenatal care, stud fees, shots, food, wormings, vet visits, and a host of other unexpected medical costs. You must also figure in the time and effort that it takes to socialize an entire litter, coupled with the fact that many breeders are dealing with more than one litter at a time, and it is easy to see how the costs can quickly add up. Essentially, a purebred German Shepherd puppy from a breeder will cost more because they are more expensive to raise. However, a purebred puppy from a reputable breeder will also come with health and temperament guarantees, so you do actually get what you pay for. For more detailed understanding of adopting a German Shepherd puppy from a shelter versus purchasing one from a breeder, we have an excellent article here that will answer all of your questions and remove all of the guesswork for you. The Cost of the First Year of German Shepherd Puppy Ownership While the amount of money that you spend to acquire a German Shepherd puppy will vary in accordance to the different factors that we have described above, keep in mind that acquiring the puppy is just be beginning of your financial commitment. It is important that you pay attention to these costs, as they can be significant, and may have a bearing on whether or not acquiring a GSD puppy is a good economical choice for you. While there are other related costs, the main costs that you will incur during the first year of GSD puppy ownership can be apportioned as follows: Initial Cost of Your Puppy As described above, this is entirely dependent on whether you adopt from a shelter or purchase from a breeder. This cost varies widely and can exceed several thousand dollars on the high end. Dog Food With so many different dog food brands on the market today, this cost can also vary considerably. From basic dry dog food to available gourmet raw diets, you can spend as little or as much as you choose. Grooming While you can groom your GSD puppy yourself, many people opt to take their puppy to a professional groomer. Necessities such as nail trimming can be intimidating to the first-time puppy owner and may harm the puppy if performed incorrectly. Training While it is our preference that you take the time to properly train your GSD puppy on your own, as this is a unique and irreplaceable bonding experience on many levels for you and your GSD puppy, many people opt to seek professional obedience training. Some people simply do not have the time to do this, or perhaps it is their first dog and they are unsure of where to begin. If this is the case for you, then you should plan on this expense during your first year of GSD puppy ownership. It is, however, important to understand that individually these items do not cost very much, but if you love to spoil your puppy, then costs can add up very quickly! Crate and Divider A crate is another essential item that there is just no getting around purchasing if you want your puppy to be well-trained. Be sure to not make the mistake that many people do by purchasing too small of a crate and then having to upsize as their puppy grows. It is wise to purchase a large crate as well as a crate divider. This way, you are able to place the divider so that the volume of the crate can be increased as your puppy grows in size. Veterinary Care A preliminary veterinary health check and vaccinations are essential. If you adopt from a shelter, these are likely included in the adoption fee. However, if you purchase your puppy from a breeder, you may incur these costs after bringing your puppy home. Keep in mind that you can, and should, also plan on unexpected veterinary bills. What happens when your puppy gets into something that he definitely should not have, and even worse, after veterinary office hours? It is wise to prepare and set aside some extra funds for such emergencies. Heartworms can be deadly, so heartworm preventative medication is a must. Ticks can also transmit disease that may cause severe illness, such as Canine Anaplasmosis , and fleas are wildly uncomfortable for both human and puppies alike. Table: First Year of German Shepherd Puppy Ownership Costs Now that we have gone over the basic essential expenses of GSD puppy ownership during the first year, we can get more specific as to the expenses that you may incur, depending on your own personal preferences. The table below provides a reasonable estimate of all costs associated with the first year of German Shepherd puppy ownership. Keep in mind that, while this is a reasonable estimate, it is still an estimate. There are certain services and items within the table below that are elective, such as boarding the puppy while on vacation or obedience classes. However, as discussed above, there are certain mandatory, nonnegotiable expenses such as food and veterinary care that you must take into consideration. If a breeder tries to tell you that his puppies are healthy because their parents never had any issues — do not believe him! It is impossible to diagnose e. Where can you find cheap German Shepherd Dogs? The question is — do you want to purchase a dog with questionable health and temperament? These dogs often are not purebred German Shepherd puppies, but are mixed with e. Labradors, Pitbulls or Golden Retrievers. If you end up with a dog with genetically based health conditions however, be prepared to spend a multiple of the original purchase price on vet costs! Temperament and behavior While a lot of good manners can be taught through consistent training, temperament is genetic to a certain level. When you buy an extra cheap German Shepherd puppy, you not only get a dog with questionable health, but also with unpredictable temperament! Even aggression can be genetic and can be passed on from the mom and dad to the offspring. You can save yourself a lot of time, nerves and money spent on future behavioral training by getting a well-bred and more expensive dog. What is the most expensive type of German Shepherd? Like in many dog breeds, certain rare German Shepherd colors are much more expensive than the most common colors and patterns. It is much more important that your puppy has a sound temperament and fits in well with your family and lifestyle than that he has a certain rare look. These dogs are mutts German Shepherds mixed with Miniature Poodles, Shelties or other smaller breeds. Once more, be certain to not decide on your future dog based on looks alone. A stable temperament and good health is much more integral than a certain size or weight. Working lines vs show lines The German Shepherd was originally bred as a working dog. Since his original use as a shepherd dog however, he has filled many different roles — from guarding properties over being used in the show ring to participating in Schutzhund and IPO trails. Depending on which lines your German Shepherd Dog comes from, the prices can vary a lot! Show line German Shepherds are the dogs that are bred for conformation shows. These are the type of dogs you should decide on if you would like a shepherd puppy as a pet and companion animal. If you are interested in using your German Shepherd as a protection dog and to participate in IPO trials, you should pick one from working lines. There are a lot of highly successful working line breeders both in North America and Europe. For this price, you get an absolutely flawless dog with extensive skills and perfect obedience. Some US dog owners interested in Schutzhund choose to import a puppy from old European working lines. While this might sound insanely high for a pet dog owner, for Schutzhund enthusiasts it is a typical price for a pedigreed German Shepherd pup. How much does it cost a month to own a German Shepherd? This will cover the basics: high-quality food and regular vet checks. Some German Shepherd owners spend considerably more money. Professional grooming is necessary for many German Shepherd owners, as these dogs shed heavily. This breeds tends to exhibit several behavioral issues that can be difficult to fix for first-time dog owners, including: Separation anxiety.

Licking or smacking lips. Getting restless, or anxious. Be on the lookout for any of these symptoms, as they may be a warning sign that your Golden is about to throw up! Sooner or later you will have to take your pup to the vet, or on family outings, or want to drive to the park. Car rides with your Golden Retriever are inevitable. The good news is that by following these helpful tips, you can get your Golden used to car rides and prevent car sickness. This short video gives a brief overview of the helpful tips that I have listed below as well. Just Sit In The Car Start by getting your pup used to the car by just sitting in it without going anywhere. This allows your pup to become familiar with the confined space. You can offer your pup some of his favourite treats so that he learns to associate the car with a good experience. Just sit in the car with your pup for a few minutes a day, before you move on to the next step. Take Frequent Short Trips Once your pup is successful with sitting in the car without issue, you can take a short drive. Let your pup get used to riding in a car by doing frequent short trips. Start out by driving down the street, or to the park. Eventually, you will be able to increase the length of your trip, as your dog will learn to associate car rides with being safe and fun. For some dogs though, a little bit of food before travelling helps with nausea and vomiting. Many dog owners prefer to use a crate to contain their pup inside a vehicle. Be sure to secure the crate in place, less movement will decrease the likelihood of your Golden becoming sick. Having your pup face forward inside a vehicle helps to decrease motion sickness. Watching vehicles speed by while looking out the side windows can make anyone feel sick. Using a doggie seatbelt or safety harness, you can make sure your pup is strapped in securely and facing forward. The best spot for your dog is the middle seat in the back. Some owners prefer to put their dog in the passenger seat because there is less movement as compared to the back. If they happen to deploy, they can cause serious harm to your dog! Be sure to open the window to allow fresh air to come in. Opening a window is preferred, rather than turning the air conditioning on. Rolling the windows down even just a little will equalize the air pressure and help reduce nausea. Even in the wintertime, your Golden will want to have the windows open. Keep the noise level down as well. Turn the radio down or off, to keep the car ride nice and peaceful for your pup. Your pup will feel more secure in the car with something familiar from home. Toys are also a good distraction to keep him happy and occupied while inside the car. Make Frequent Stops If you plan on doing a long car ride of a few hours or more, be sure to make frequent stops. This allows your dog to get out and stretch, as well as take bathroom breaks if needed. It also gives your pup a break from all the motion. Not only can you distract your dog, but you can comfort them. A word of warning though, if your pup happens to throw up, it could end up all over you. I speak from experience!! The good news is that there are many natural remedies to help your dog with car sickness. Ginger is well known for its anti-nausea effects. It is safe to give your dog in small doses. Consult your vet for the proper dosage for your dog, based on age, weight and health status. Many owners feed gingersnap cookies to their dog prior to travelling. Be sure to check out this recipe for homemade Gingersnap Cookies For Dogs. Lavender can be used as a safe aromatherapy option. It helps calm your dog and ease stress and anxiety symptoms associated with motion sickness. Spray it on a cotton ball and place it in the car 30 minutes before travelling. CBD supplements are a safe and holistic option to treat anxiety and nausea related to car travel. CBD for dogs is available in treats, chews and oil. Whatever form you choose, you can offer it to your dog before travel. Medication There are a variety of medications that can be used to treat motion sickness in dogs. Common over-the-counter medications include Benadryl and Dramamine. Both are antihistamines that help reduce symptoms of motion sickness and offer sedation. Cerenia is an anti-nausea medication that can only be prescribed by your vet. If your Golden Retriever is experiencing anxiety due to car travel, your vet may be able to prescribe anti-anxiety medications. These medications should only be used for extremely stressed dogs. A drug-free option that works well for many dogs experiencing anxiety, is the Thundershirt. Commonly used for noise-related anxiety, the Thundershirt is also successful for treating travel anxiety. Final Thoughts As you can see, there are several reasons why your Golden Retriever gets car sick. If your Golden is still a puppy, there is a good chance he or she will outgrow motion sickness once their ears fully develop. For adult Golden Retrievers who never outgrew car sickness, it could be related to stress, fear or anxiety. Preventing car sickness in your Golden takes time, whether it is waiting for your puppy to grow out of it, or conditioning your adult Golden to get used to the car. Regardless of the reason, taking some preventative steps before you embark on a car ride, will ensure that your Golden will feel less sick. Does your Golden Retriever get car sick? Do you have any helpful tips or advice to prevent car sickness in Golden Retrievers? Please share your thoughts and comments below. I would love to hear from you! Jenny I am the proud owner of a Golden Retriever named Ellie. She keeps me busy, and when she is resting, you can find me working on my blog. She is always close by though. I live in Stirling, ON Canada with my husband, and we both enjoy the never a dull moment life with our Ellie. Spread the love. Any noticeable changes in temperament aggression, becoming intolerant etc. Any lumps found in their skin or bodies. Loud breathing, coughing or wheezing. Any skin complaints such as bald spots appearing, rashes or sore spots. Constant chewing, biting or scratching of any areas of their body. Any crustiness or discharge in their ears. Mild pain or discomfort — Due to dogs being so hardy and trying to hide it, mild pain may not be as mild as first thought! Many of these things can be classed as every day and passing problems that do not need any medical intervention. For instance, every dog, and I mean every dog, will have sickness and diarrhea many, many times in their lives. They will eat grass, poop and all sorts of things that will upset their tummies for a few hours. Likewise, all dogs will sometimes be off their food for 24 hours, normally also due to a small stomach upset. And sometimes, perhaps due to over exertion or tiredness, a dog may sleep more than usual or appear lethargic. It is even worse to then decide upon and administer your own treatment. The reasons for this are that anybody can write anything on the internet so the information you find may not be correct. Very similar symptoms can be due to very different causes. So a person offering you advice on how to best care for your dog may be giving the wrong advice. It may have been right for their dog and the medical condition they had, but even though the symptoms are similar it could be completely wrong for your dog and the different cause of their symptoms. This scenario…which happens frighteningly more often than you might like to think…can seriously put your dogs long-term health and maybe even their life at risk. By all means research symptoms for informational purposes, but if your dog really is ill, there is and cannot be any substitute for professional veterinary advice. So please always seek it. For that reason I would like to give two very good resources that can help you to recognize various symptoms in your dog and tell you how to react to your findings. First of all and my personal favorite is a massive list of symptoms from medicinenet. This is the sort of information I feel comfortable in promoting! Also of very good quality are the following two pages from PetMD: An interactive dog symptom checker from PetMD PetMD is a very good and widely trusted resource on the internet for pet health so you can be sure the information is good. With the resources I have listed here, please take heed of my warning and advice: There is no substitute for professional help. Your Goldens health and life is in your hands! They will never belittle you and be angry at false alarms. Time wasted trying to find the right number to call could be precious. That would be immoral, highly dangerous and, quite rightly, in some countries even illegal! But I also recognize that everybody is a first time owner at one stage in their life and they need to seek knowledge and learn how to care for their dogs properly. And one such thing that every owner really must learn is when they need to call a vet. And to be on the safe side, it will be a plus to have pet first aid kit ready. I hope it can be of some help. You May Also Like. Your dog is special! Chances are that you chose her because you like Goldens and you expected her to have certain traits that would fit your lifestyle: Even-tempered, affectionate, and happy-go-lucky Good with kids and other pets Large, strong, and athletic Above average intelligence and trainability when positive reinforcement training methods are used Loves to play games, especially fetch People-oriented and eager to please However, no dog is perfect! Of course! Although they are still used for hunting, Goldens excel at many other activities including search and rescue and guide work. They do require ample exercise and swimming can be a great outlet for their endless energy. Her beautiful coat requires brushing and in some climates, a summer trim may be in order. She is intelligent, understanding, and eager to please her family. The Golden Retriever is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Golden. By knowing about health concerns specific to Golden Retrievers, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in Golden Retrievers to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Golden Retrievers. At the end of the booklet, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Golden looking and feeling her best. And unfortunately, your Golden is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. It starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Infections Golden Retrievers are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, her age, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in Golden Retrievers. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Roundworm egg as seen under the microscope. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Golden is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. For example, if your pet needs hip X-rays or a puppy tooth extracted, this would be a good time. This is convenient for you and easy for your friend. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions for common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. Genetic Predispositions for Golden Retrievers Cancer Cancer is a leading cause of death in older dogs. Your Golden will likely live longer than many other breeds and therefore is more prone to get cancer in his golden years. Many cancers are cured by surgically removing them, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. Early detection is critical! Hemangiosarcoma is a type of bleeding tumor that affects Golden Retrievers at greater than average incidence. These tumors commonly form in the spleen, but can form in other organs as well. Unbeknownst to a pet owner, the tumor breaks open and internal bleeding occurs. Some tumors can be volleyball-sized or larger before signs of sickness show. We often find clues that one of these tumors is present during senior wellness testing, so have his blood tested and an ultrasound performed at least yearly. Lymphoma or lymphosarcoma is a type of cancer that afflicts Golden Retrievers more than other breeds. This disease makes the body form abnormal lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. Because white blood cells can be found throughout the body, this cancer can show up almost anywhere. Lymphoma is a very treatable form of cancer, with an excellent success rate in dogs receiving chemotherapy. Treatment can be costly, however, and is a lifelong commitment. Luckily, lymphoma is one of the few types of cancer that can often be found with a blood test, so we may recommend a complete blood count twice yearly. Mast cell tumors can look like anything. Be sure to have all lumps and bumps checked out. Mast cell tumors are a particularly nasty type of skin cancer found more often in Golden Retrievers, and the sooner they are surgically removed the better. Trouble is, they often look just like other kinds of skin lumps and lesions, some of which are harmful, and others not. All suspicious lumps should be tested and any questionable lump should be surgically removed as soon as possible. Many cancers are cured by surgically removing them, so early detection and removal is critical. This means your Golden is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off blood supply to the stomach, and sometimes the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as 30 minutes. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes out , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Normal hip x-rays X-rays taken of a dog with hip dysplasia. Bone and Joint Problems A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in Golden Retrievers. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia , an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. Keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs of concern. Cataract Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Goldens. Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine. Surgery to remove cataracts and restore sight may also be an option. Glaucoma, an eye condition that affects Golden Retrievers and people too, is an extremely painful disease that rapidly leads to blindness if left untreated. Symptoms include squinting, watery eyes, bluing of the cornea the clear front part of the eye , and redness in the whites of the eyes. Pain is rarely noticed by pet owners though it is frequently there and can be severe. People who have certain types of glaucoma often report it feels like being stabbed in the eye with an ice pick! Glaucoma is a medical emergency. Distichiasis is a condition caused by extra hairs that grow inside of the eyelid and rub on the surface of the eye. This is one of the most commonly inherited diseases in dogs, and your Golden is more likely than other dogs to develop this painful condition. If untreated, these abnormal hairs can cause corneal ulcers and chronic eye pain. Several treatment options are available, and the prognosis is good once the hairs have been permanently removed. Allergies In humans, an allergy to pollen, mold, or dust makes people sneeze and their eyes itch. In dogs, rather than sneeze, allergies make their skin itchy. Commonly, the feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for this condition. Allergies, swimming, overgrowth of hair in the ear canals, or an accumulation of earwax can all predispose your dog to ear infections, which are painful and annoying. Goldens are very often afflicted by allergies, which cause itching and inflammation in the ears and elsewhere. The earlier we diagnose this disease, the less discomfort and pain he will suffer. Be sure to call us if you notice him scratching or shaking his head, a foul odor from the ears, or if his ears seem painful to the touch. By monitoring for ear infections and treating them early, we also reduce the likelihood of eardrum damage that can lead to deafness. Most ear infections tend to recur until we work together to control the underlying cause. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary, or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, with Golden Retrievers commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, they will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control, with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and effectiveness. Note the length of the seizure, and call us or an emergency hospital. Heart Disease Some Golden Retrievers inherit a heart condition known as aortic stenosis. This disease causes a partial obstruction of blood flow as it leaves the heart, which means the heart must work harder to pump enough blood. If the condition is severe enough, your dog may faint or just seem to run out of energy during exercise. He may also have difficulty breathing, cough, or not grow as much as he should. Golden Retrievers are also especially prone to a life-threatening heart condition known as dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, in which the heart becomes so large, thin, and weak that it can no longer effectively pump blood to the body. As this problem advances, he may act weak or tired, faint or collapse, breathe in a labored way, or cough. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Any breed can be affected, but Goldens have an above average incidence. Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars and require daily insulin injections. It is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Well regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. Some of the blood supply that should go to the liver goes around it instead, depriving the liver of the blood flow it needs to grow and function properly. If your friend has PSS, his liver cannot remove toxins from his bloodstream effectively. Surgery may be needed, but in some cases, we can treat with a special diet and medication. Bleeding Disorders Your Golden Retriever is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This is an important test, as we may not know your pet has this disorder until severe bleeding occurs during surgery or after a serious injury. Signs can include dry skin and coat, hair loss, susceptibility to other skin diseases, weight gain, fearfulness, aggression, or other behavioral changes. Treatment is usually simple: replacement hormones given in the form of a pill. Taking Care of Your Golden Retriever at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your Golden live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. She needs a thorough brushing at least weekly most of the year. Twice a year she blows her coat and loses crazy amounts of hair; daily brushing is recommended during this time. Golden Retrievers generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. She excels at dog sports like flyball, agility, dock diving, and obedience. She has a passion for water and swimming is a perfect form of exercise for this water retriever. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease, or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help, and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Golden Retriever needs help. For the most up-to-date information on DNA and other screening tests available for your pal, visit www. Your Golden counts on you to take good care of her, and we look forward to working with you to ensure that she lives a long and healthy life. Please contact us when you have questions or concerns. References: Ackerman L. Second edition. AAHA Press; .Veterinary medical guide to dog and cat breeds. Jackson, Wyoming. Teton New Media; .Gough A, Thomas A. Breed Predispositions to Disease in Dogs and Cats. Wiley-Blackwell; .Canine Inherited Disorders Database [Internet]. University of Prince Edward Island.