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Life Span Did You Know? These large, fluffy dogs are known for their non-shedding coats and lovable personalities. Bernedoodles tend to be a great addition to any family! Although the Bernedoodle is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other dog registries. As long as they are properly socialized, they tend to be open and friendly dogs that get along well with just about anyone. These dogs tend to do well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although they can be initially wary and watchful at first, they even tend to warm up quickly to strangers once introduced. Bernedoodles are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. Despite their size and energy, they can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise and attention. These dogs tend to handle the cold better than the heat; you may even have some trouble getting them to come back inside after some playtime in the snow. Because Bernedoodles bond so closely with their families and enjoy nothing more than being around them, they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. They can also be prone to skin issues like sensitive skin, allergies, and hot spots. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large dog breed, the Standard Bernedoodle is also at risk for bloat like both parent breeds. The Bernedoodle is a highly intelligent and easily trained dog breed. Some facts about Bernedoodles are that they are a good fit for owners of any experience level and tend to pick up commands easily. Although they tend to grow out of this initial stubbornness with age, puppy training classes will certainly help with training and socialization early on. Bernedoodles tend to have a longer coat that ranges from curly to wavy. Although they tend to be non-shedding, they still need a lot of maintenance to keep their coat looking great. Daily brushing to remove tangles and prevent mats along with grooming every weeks are recommended. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Brushing daily along and cleanings at the vet as needed are an ideal start to a good dental care routine for your Bernedoodle. Standard Bernedoodles can range from moderate to high energy. They tend to sit in a more moderate activity range and have bursts of higher energy when they play. These dogs are known to play hard and energetically until they are tired, but are not usually considered high-energy dogs. Daily walks plus playtime and some time to run should be enough for a Bernedoodle. But, these dogs will likely be up for more activity if you are. They will love the opportunity to spend more time being active with you. A fully-grown Standard Bernedoodle usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. Standard Bernedoodles generally live for years on average. A Bernedoodle is also sometimes called a Bernese Mountain Poo. Featured Bernedoodle Article. Questions about Bernedoodle puppies for sale in Lancaster, PA? We have answers. Give me some fun facts about Bernedoodle puppies for sale near Lancaster! Bernedoodles are a designer hybrid breed created by crossing a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle. They are a great family pet and have an affectionate, lovable, and loyal temperament. They have a unique look, usually being black and white with striking markings and a beautiful coat. Bernedoodles come in three sizes -mini, medium, and standard -so you can find the perfect size for your home. Are Bernedoodle puppies for sale in Lancaster hypoallergenic? Bernedoodles are a popular hybrid that many people consider to be hypoallergenic. While it is impossible to guarantee that a Bernedoodle will not cause an allergic reaction in an individual, they can be bred to have a low-shedding, coat that is often tolerated by those who are allergy-prone. They are a mix between Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles, both of which are considered to have low-allergen coats, making them a good choice for people looking for a companion that is unlikely to trigger an allergic reaction. What's the best dog food for Lancaster Bernedoodle puppies for sale? Berndoodles are a unique breed with specific dietary needs, so it's important to choose wisely when selecting a food. One of the best options for Bernedoodles is a high-quality dry food that is formulated for dogs of large and giant breeds. Look for a food containing plenty of protein, healthy fats, fruits and vegetables, and minimal grains and fillers. Additionally, ensure the food contains all necessary vitamins and minerals to keep your Berndoodle healthy and happy. How can I become the best puppy parent for Bernedoodle puppies in Lancaster? Becoming the best possible puppy parent before welcoming your Bernedoodle home is an important step to take. Start out by researching Bernedoodles so you can better understand their temperaments, behavior, nutrition, and any special care requirements. Educate yourself on puppy health and basic obedience commands with help from credible sources, including professional breeders. Make sure to set up a safe, comfortable space for your pup with necessary items such as toys, food, and a bed. Good rules and boundaries should be established and behaviors need to be consistently reinforced. Are Bernedoodles for sale in Lancaster considered small dogs? Bernedoodles, a cross between Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles, are technically classified as medium-sized dogs. While many Bernedoodle puppies can be quite small when they are first born, they usually grow to a weight of pounds and a height of around inches once they reach adulthood. As such, Bernedoodles are not considered to be a small breed despite their adorable size during puppyhood. Are Bernedoodle puppies near Lancaster active dogs? Bernedoodles are an active breed. They are an active hybrid of the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle, so they typically enjoy a variety of activities including walking, running, hiking, and fetch. Bernedoodles should definitely get regular exercise with plenty of room to run and get their daily activities met. This will help keep them not only physically fit but can also keep them mentally stimulated. If kept with a regular activity regime and sufficient attention, the Bernedoodle can live a long and healthy life with plenty of enthusiasm and love. Are Bernedoodles in Lancaster good family dogs? Yes, Bernedoodles make wonderful family dogs. They are intelligent, loyal, and full of energy, making them ideal companions for all members of the family. Bernedoodles are known for their friendly and social nature, so they can easily become a lovable addition to the family unit. They are usually good with children, and won't become aggressive unless mistreated. Bernedoodles require quite a bit of exercise and mental stimulation so they can stay healthy and happy, making them a great fit for an active lifestyle. How many minutes per day do I need to train Lancaster Bernedoodles for sale? The amount of time required to train Bernedoodles each day varies greatly; it may take anywhere from minutes per day, depending on the individual temperament and age of the dog. Generally, young puppies need more frequent sessions up to 20 minutes than adult dogs.

All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on. But those first weeks of puppy development are very similar whatever the breed, and these landmarks are good general rules for any dog. Puppy development week by week, changes quickly. Newborn Puppies Newborn puppies are born at the end of nine weeks of pregnancy, with their eyes and ears tightly closed. They already have a fur coat but they cannot yet control their own body temperature. They are dependent on their mother or another heat source to keep them warm. Newborn puppies may cry if cold. But they do not have the strength to cry for long. Newborn Labrador puppies snuggle together to keep warm when their mother is away How Helpless are Newborn Pups? Although they rely on mom for a lot at this stage, newborn puppies are not completely helpless. They can use their front feet to drag themselves towards a heat source or their milk supply. This means their mom, not milk alternatives like cow or goat milk. Newborn pups have no teeth yet. But they can move their heads about to search for a nipple, and they can latch on and suck strongly. Their mother leaves them only to eat, drink and for bathroom purposes. While she is away, the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat, as you can see in the photo above. They may also crawl under a heat lamp source to keep warm. In every other respect newborn puppies are completely dependent on the care of their mother. Newborn pups have little control over the rear end of their bodies. The mother dog washes them and licks their bottoms to encourage elimination, licking up and swallowing anything they produce to keep her babies and their nest scrupulously clean. In fact, he may even double his birth weight! One week later and the puppies have doubled their birth weight. Changes are taking place under his eyelids to prepare them for opening. And usually begins during the second week of life. Ears open at this point too, so your puppy will begin to hear. The Labrador puppies in this picture are two weeks olds. Two weeks old and the puppies eyes are now open! You can see that their eyes are now open and the puppies are beginning to look a little more dog-like. The breeder will be handling the puppies more now. And most puppies are wormed for the first time at two weeks old. Most 3 week old puppies can stand and sit, and are beginning to totter about. They are also starting to develop their individuality. No longer are they just a row of identical little fat furry sausages! This little three week old puppy :- Can easily be distinguished from his brother: Teething and Further Development At 3 weeks old, this is also the point at which puppies start teething — cutting their first deciduous baby teeth. Obviously the teeth are appearing for a reason! Some breeders will start to offer the first tastes of solid food at this point. Especially if the litter is a large one and putting a strain on the mother dog. It is lovely to watch a litter of 3 week old puppies beginning to interact with their brothers and sisters. They are running, playing enthusiastically, and have started to wag their little tails. The puppies will start to show bowel control as they move away from the other puppies to defecate. And solid food is becoming a major part of their diet. These little pups are tucking into some puppy food. Four week old puppies having their dinner in the fresh air If the weather is warm enough, puppies will be spending some time outdoors now. Mealtimes are a messy process, so feeding puppies out in the yard can be a good idea. Breeder Involvement Some mother dogs will lose interest in cleaning up after their pups at this point or soon afterwards. And many puppies will be wormed again this week. Vocalizations are becoming stronger at this puppy development stage. The litter will greet their mother noisily when she returns to them, and try hard to follow her out of the whelping box whenever she leaves. The puppies themselves are now eating solid food several times a day and gradually being weaned of their dependency on her milk. Puppies will still suckle ravenously when their mother returns and she will now often feed them standing up and only for a short time. She will also be teaching the puppies not to bite too hard. So, they should be increasingly spending time with humans and learning to be familiar with the sounds and sights of a human family environment. Puppies being raised in kennels must be brought into a home environment regularly from now on to ensure they develop into confident, friendly dogs. Six weeks old and full of mischief Puppies Still Have a Lot to Learn at 6 Weeks In some countries, puppies are taken to their new homes at this age. But this is not a good idea, and can result in a puppy that has poor bite inhibition and is challenging to manage. The puppies are learning not to bite too hard from the reactions of their mother and siblings. Growth is not quite so fast now. But the puppies will still grow strongly for the next few months. Many puppies will be wormed again this week. All that remains is for plenty of great socialization experiences to be packed into this week, with final checks on health. Many breeders will arrange for each seven week old puppy to have a vet check this week. And though some vets advise against it, some puppies are also given their first vaccinations before they leave for their new homes. Some breeders will now have the puppies trained to pee and poop on puppy pads or newspaper. And some will have been whistling to the puppies at meal times to get them used to coming to a human signal. Potty training is now underway and puppy socialization plans are being made. At this point, many of you will be thinking about training your puppy too. The next four weeks are vital in puppy development stages. Your main job is socializing your puppy. This means taking him to lots of new places and exposing him to lots of new experiences. So, life will be starting to get back to normal. Most puppies in the U. In the U. So, not all puppies will get their vaccinations at the exact same age. Socializing your puppy is still the most important job for you at this age. But, you cannot put your puppy on the ground outside until they have received their final vaccination. So, make sure you know exactly when their final jab is. And carry on introducing them to as many new people, things, and experiences as possible throughout this puppy development stage. Some people can suffer from the puppy blues at this stage too, as your life has completely changed! But, that does not mean socialization can stop. Puppies who are isolated at this point will soon lose that friendly fearlessness. You have an important job now, building on what has been achieved so far, and introducing your puppy to the world at ground level. This part of his education can begin once his vaccination cover is complete. He should be fully immunised at around this point. But check with your vet for confirmation of the actual date. Three months also marks the point at which many puppies will drop down from four daily meals, to three. This can cause problems for some puppies because the portions are larger If your puppy gets an upset tummy when you make this change, just go back up to four meals again for a few days, and give smaller portions for a few days when you try again. But, many will need another month before they can cope without frequent bathroom breaks and the occasional accident. Your puppy will begin to lose his baby teeth. This can also be a time at which biting can be most challenging. And try not to worry, this stage will soon be over! A few will need another month or two to complete the process. Remember, no two puppies are the same. That puppy fluffiness will have gone. For many puppies, five months is an awkward, gangly time. A five month old puppy may have shed the last of his soft puppy lines and be looking quite skinny. By the end of this month most puppies will have finished teething but an urge to chew may continue for another few months in some breeds, Labradors included. Some female dogs will have their first season during this month. But, for many, it will be another three or four months before this happens. This is a major milestone for your puppy. He is now looking very much like an adult Labrador. Still a Puppy Because he looks quite grown up, people expect a lot of their 6 month old puppy. But inside, he is still very much a puppy. The beginnings of adolescence and with it an increasing independence of spirit can bring its challenges, but also a whole lot of fun.

Do German Shepherd puppies change color? Yes, as they grow, these puppies naturally change their coats. Expect a dramatic coat change as it turns into an adult. Do you ever wonder how these puppies go through color changes? You can witness these fun replacements of colors until your dog reaches two years old. They naturally change their overall appearance as they age. Even the color of their eyes changes, too! Adult coats simply replace them gradually as they grow. When you see a newborn puppy, it will be hard to tell what its dominant color will be. There are also German Shepherd puppies that are born with overall white color, which is an exception. White pups will stay all white until adulthood. At Age 0 to 2 Weeks At this age, changes to the puppy coat begin. Some keen dog breeders can tell if the German Shepherd puppy will have an all-black coat or change its color. Aside from coat color, you can also tell at this point if your dog will have short, medium, or long coats. They may turn all black, or their color may develop a darker or lighter color. At 4 to 6 Months When German Shepherd puppies turn four to six months old, they start to shed off their puppy furs. As a result, their coats gradually become thicker and denser as well. By this time, you can see your puppy develop into an adult dog. There will be small or drastic changes, and at this stage, you can usually tell what the dominant color of your dog will be. This is one of the most exciting stages. You can certainly tell if it has turned out to be black, black and tan, gray, or sable. You can often see them in the show ring. However, the original color of German Shepherds is sable because they were bred as working dogs. Nowadays, there are a lot of colors that German Shepherds can have. Black and Tan When you think of a German Shepherd, the first picture that comes into your mind is black and tan. The black appears mostly on the upper limb and their faces, while the dominant color for the chest, neck, and underbellies is tan. Black and Red For this one, the black color mostly appears on the saddle or upper limb and face. The chest and underbellies, however, will have a dark red appearance. Black The dog has a pure black coat, and it is very rare. You cannot see any visible color on them aside from black. Their origins are either both black parents or black and tan. Bi-color Bi-color dogs are those that have a dominant black coat color with a sign of another color. Their face, legs, and feet may have minimal color variation. They are bred intentionally. Gray German Shepherds with gray color have a distinctive appearance. You will see the whole body of the dog with the dominant liver color. You can see most of them in dog shows. Its coat is literally like that of a panda! This is a purebred dog and not a combination of parents with different color breeds. The rare gene altercations are responsible for its cute color. The coat appears to have more black and tan colors and a few white spots. Sable Sable is one of the most popular colors of German Shepherds. You can mostly see this coat color with the working lines of German Shepherds. Red Sable Red sables are rare breeds. They are sold expensive because of their unique color. It resembles a rich brownish-red coat. Its fur has black tips. At 24 months, German Shepherds generally tend to stop changing their colors. If you notice an excessive change in color at this point, consult your veterinarian for immediate assessment. There might be some underlying conditions that you need to address. All canine friends are great companions. When you own a German Shepherd, you will be amazed at how they change their colors into adulthood. Each German Shepherd has its unique coat color. The genes have the biggest impact on their color. The most important thing to note is that you own a healthy and happy German Shepherd regardless of its color. Paul S. Paul has been creating content for the dog niche for many years. The information he shares comes his first hand experience growing up in dog lovers household and then owning multiple dog breeds of his own as an adult. Paul enjoys doing the hard research to collect, analyze and present our dogtemperament. They have a strong and dominant personality. On the other hand, a solid white German Shepherd has a shy personality. But if trained well, just like any other GSD, they are hardworking, loyal, intelligent, and brave breed. However, their unusual light skin and golden eyes make them rare as well! They are the majority of the black GSD that is considered as the original color of the breed. Black could mix with tan, red, silver or cream, and even white. They are considered as one of the most popular colors of the GSD and popular in Hollywood as well! The majority of their bodies are black, and as puppies, their colors lighten. The color tan can be replaced by other colors, such as red. They can also be found in a working field. Black and Red — Similar to the black and tan GSD, but the color tan is replaced by a red or strawberry-type like color. They can be found in the show field. But they could still be considered as Black and Red color. Bicolor Almost black — The majority of their bodies are color black. Yet, the legs have a different color, for instance, brown, gray, or Agouti, and they also have no saddleback. Blue — Their origins are unknown. Still, the blue pigment appeared when the black color was diluted, turning the skin to a liver brown color that can appear blue in our eyes. Gray — They have the same appearance or color as the wolf. Liver and Tan — They have a unique brown color of the incomplete black pigment. Their overall look could look brownish with little to no color of black. They were born in a tan color, yet as they grew up, one additional color or two also grew, replacing the Tan. White — Snowy-fur light-colored GSD that could mean solid and pure or mixed. It shared the same bloodline as German Shepherds. Yet, it is presumed that they are independent or recessive from other colors. Rare Colors These are the German Shepherd considered as a severe or genetic fault. This means for different reasons, their colors are unusual for the GSD breed. Panda — They have a pattern of white color with black spots. It is said that they are the result of Piebald coloring occurring as unpigmented white spots. Liver — They have a recessive gene that blocks the black pigment from appearing, thus replacing it with brown. Pale and Dilute — anything that looks pale or lighter in color, such as white and liver GSD. They are indeed one of the most unique canine breeds. Final Thoughts The way we see it, German Shepherds do change color as they grew up. Rapid or Unusual changes are abnormal and should be taken to the Vet for immediate care. And lastly, this article made us appreciate them all. 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 Shepherd dogs will change their coat color fairly consistently from the time they are born until they are about 2 years old. This change in color is the most dramatic during the first 8 weeks of life. During this time German Shepherd puppies will change from their birth color to the young coat that will resemble their coat as an adult. This means that their soft puppy fluff will change color for some breeds, and will also start to change in texture. Over the first two years of life, your German Shepherd puppy will change its coat frequently. These changes will alter the coat color, growing in the color and pattern that your dog will possess for the bulk of its adult life. During this time your German Shepherd will also lose the soft coat of a puppy, and grow a more dense, coarse coat of an adult. Changes in coat length, coarseness, and color will progress during the normal pattern of molt. You will notice obvious patterns of shedding or molting in your German Shepherd, generally, two times per year. Most dogs, molt during the fall and during the spring. Grooming It is important that you are diligent during these times of molt with grooming your German Shepherd dog, especially if your dog is long-coated. German Shepherds, especially long coated German Shepherds, are prone to matting due to their coarse coat texture. Matting can be painful for your dog, so make sure that you brush them often during these times of molting. Good grooming of your German Shepherd during molt will also help to keep your home free from excessive amounts of hair. The changes that you will notice in the color of your German Shepherd dog will be subtle and are similar to the coat color changes that most dog owners will notice with their pets. Just like people, German Shepherds will start to show a greying of hair as they age. You will notice this change, particularly around their eyes and muzzle. This change will be particularly noticeable on German Shepherds that have dark faces, or on black German Shepherds. This change in their coat may make your German Shepherd look less colorful than they did as a younger dog. Along with graying and a dulling of the coat, you may notice that your German Shepherd is losing more hair, and their coat seems thinner, as they get older. This, like a change in face colors and a duller appearance, are natural progressions of aging. However, if you notice that these changes happen very rapidly, you may want to visit your veterinarian. Rapid changes in color or coat thickness can be an indication of a more serious problem. If your German Shepherd starts losing hair in thick patches or has a rapid change in color this could indicate health problems like thyroid issues, cancer, or liver issues. As a German Shepherd owner, you may not be able to stop the natural change in coat color as your dog ages, but you can take steps to help keep their coat soft and thicker as they age. German Shepherds are great family companions, and they have many unique traits that make them amazing, special dogs. Their coloring and change in color as they grow is one of the most interesting and unique features of the German Shepherd. However, it can make it more challenging if you are new to the breed and are looking to buy a puppy of a specific color. In the long Run Our advice when you are shopping for a German Shepherd puppy, in a specific color is to work with a reputable breeder. Good breeders will be able to help a new German Shepherd owner or one that is looking for a particular color, find the right puppy to add to their family. And remember, rapid changes in color can be a sign of serious health problems and should be addressed by your veterinarian. These are the natural color changes you can expect with your healthy German Shepherd dog. Sergey Uhanov, a certified veterinarian, has authored all of the content here. With over 20 years of experience in dog care and breeding three dogs of his own, he has a deep passion for these furry friends. Sergey owns a pet clinic in Israel where he provides care and treatment to dogs. He enjoys sharing his expertise and knowledge to assist others in caring for their dogs. All content on this site is written by Sergey Uhanov who is an experienced veterinarian. For more information about Sergey, click here. As Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Puppies When choosing a companion dog, it is normal for coat color to be a major consideration. But how about the German Shepherd coat? Do German Shepherd puppies change color? This article will discuss German Shepherd puppy coat coloring and how that coloring changes over time. Yes, German Shepherd puppies change color as they develop into adulthood. Even after they completely shed their puppy coat and grow their permanent adult coat, you can still expect to see some subtle changes in color. Instead, it sheds and changes continuously from birth to around 6 months. Once your German Shepherd turns 7 months old, the changes to their coat color will be more subtle. Nevertheless, it will continue to transform until they become adults at around 2 years old. Puppies are single-coated and their fur is generally soft and fluffy. Over time, they will shed that coat and develop a double-coat composed of dense fur and coarse outer hairs. Thick, downy fur helps puppies regulate their temperature within their first few months of life. However, their needs will change as they develop into adults. In the spring, German Shepherds blow their undercoats in preparation for the warm summer months. They will again shed heavily in the fall to develop a thicker and possibly darker winter coat. However, their appearance will still change—possibly multiple times—until well into adulthood, which starts at around 2 years old. However, you may still notice some subtle changes in thickness as the seasons turn. The color might also change slightly due to various factors like diet and sun exposure. However, experienced breeders can often tell whether a puppy will be long-coated before they turn a month old. It is also common for some unique markings to appear or disappear at this time. Nevertheless, the change in appearance might still be significant between 7 and 18 months old. Their shade could become darker or lighter, and their coat pattern can show some slight changes as well. Changes could still occur as a result of diet, environmental exposure, or health issues. No matter what color you prefer, your German Shepherd will benefit from proper nutrition and supplements for dog coat growth. Liver These are all approved show-ring standard coat colors in case you want to show your GSD. But is there any way to know for sure what coat color your GSD puppy will have when they grow up? First-time German Shepherd owners are often very surprised to learn that a large breed dog like the German Shepherd can continue growing for 24 to 36 months. An adult German Shepherd dog may weigh anywhere from 50 to 90 pounds and stand anywhere from 22 to 26 inches tall paw pad to shoulder. That is a lot of growth that needs to get done. For this reason, genetically speaking, it is advantageous for a large breed puppy to grow in spurts, spacing it out over time. Canine coat color experts explain that dogs have two basic pigments: eumelanin melanin and phaeomelanin. Eumelanin Eumelanin pigment always defaults to black. Eumelanin not only determines basic coat color but also controls for iris eye colors and nose colors. Phaeomelanin Phaeomelanin always defaults to red. Like eumelanin, the introduction of different genes can determine where on the red spectrum phaeomelanin expresses shows up. Unlike eumelanin, phaeomelanin only affects coat color and not eyes or nose. This is the chart many breeders use to design breeding programs to focus on certain coat colors. Each parent dog contributes a set of genes that control for color: coat color, eye iris color, and nose color as well as skin color. If you have a preference for a specific adult coat color, whether because you want to show your GSD or you are developing your breeding program, the best guarantee is to work closely with a knowledgeable breeder who understands coat color genetics. There is one exception to the coat color change to be aware of: often GSD puppies born with white coats will stay white. The coat is no exception here, as we mentioned in the introduction here. When your GSD puppy is born, all the puppies are typically but not always solid in color. The most common GSD puppy colors are black, grey, or — surprisingly — white. Kennels Von Lotta, a German Shepherd breeder, and kennel have posted this picture of a litter of newborn neonate German Shepherd puppies that were born black. Whelping to 2 weeks The puppies will start to show some differences in coat color and also coat length. By the day mark, breeders say it is often possible to tell if a GSD puppy is potentially going to grow up to have a long coat. As South Florida Shepherds kennel and breeder explains, the very same parent dogs can produce GSD puppies with very different adult coat colors. Because nearly all GSDs are displaying their permanent adult coloration by 18 to 24 months, continued changes or a sudden recurrence of color changes should always be investigated further. Now you know what to watch for as your little fluffy German Shepherd puppy starts to display their full and fabulous adult coat color and pattern. Like humans, puppies grow fast. During this time, their coat goes through many changes. German Shepherds will frequently change color during the first couple of years of their life. It will also discuss how to determine what color your puppy may grow up to become. As puppies, German Shepherds are born with very soft and thin hair—wildly different from their usual thick, coarse hair as adult dogs. As German Shepherd puppies age, their soft, thin fur helps shield them from the elements and help regulate their body temperature. Typically, however, it will be thin and very soft. As your German Shepherd matures, its hair will begin to become short, thick, and coarse. Some German Shepherds, although rare, are long-haired. For adult German Shepherds, a soft, silky, too long outer coat is considered a fault to the American Kennel Club. For German Shepherd puppies, the color change is the most dramatic during the first eight weeks of life. By the time your puppy is eight weeks old, you will typically be able to determine or already see their actual color. As puppies, German Shepherds are either born black, white, or gray. It will be very gradual. For instance, you could start seeing some brown coming in around the legs, stomach, or face at first. It might look strange, but eventually, your German Shepherd will fully mature and become a beautiful color. Puppies can be born black, gray, or white. If you adopt a black German Shepherd puppy, it will generally stay black. However, a gray or white German shepherd can grow to be a variety of different colors. There are several standard colors, such as the tan and black already mentioned, but there are also a few rare ones. Black and Red: Black and red is another standard color scheme on German Shepherds. Bicolor: A Bicolor German shepherd will usually be almost entirely black, but the feet will be a tan color. A dominant gene produces gray German shepherds, and the American Kennel Club recognizes them. Liver: The color liver resembles a light brown. So, this colored German Shepherd will look similar to your average tan German Shepherd, just a little bit lighter. Like blue coats, liver coats are recessive and considered to be faulted by the American Kennel Club. Black: Black German Shepherds are typically entirely black and will resemble that of black labs if their hair is short, except for the stick-straight ears, of course. White: White German Shepherds are entirely white. The American Kennel Club recognizes them, but dog shows disqualify them because of their recessive genes. Sable: Sable is a unique coat color. For this German Shepherd, almost all of their hairs will have a black tip, and the rest is composed of different colors. The best way to determine the color your German shepherd will be is to look at its parents. Looking at the color of the parents should tell you what color your puppy will be. White German Shepherd puppies are the same. However, there are exceptions to this, and not all puppies are the same. Zinc deficiency, for instance, can cause many skin problems for your dog. This salmon oil is easy to give to your dog and offers clear instructions on the number of pumps to provide every day for the best benefits.

Prospective owners are sometimes shocked to learn that straight hair Goldendoodles exist! Goldendoodles with straight hair, sometimes called flat coat Goldendoodles, are often the subject of a lot of confusion. Is there anything wrong with them? Keep reading to get all your questions answered about this unique Goldendoodle coat texture! Can Goldendoodles Have Straight Hair? While not as common as wavy or curly coats, Goldendoodles can have straight hair! As a mixed breed dog, Goldendoodles will take on some qualities of both the Golden Retriever and the Poodle. Naturally, some Goldendoodles will have a flat coat like the Golden Retriever and some will have a curlier coat similar to the Poodle. Breeders often strive to produce Goldendoodle puppies with curly coats, as they tend to be more allergy-friendly and have a lower potential for shedding. Photo courtesy of archiebgolden on Instagram. Are Goldendoodles Always Curly? Goldendoodle coat types can range from curly, to wavy, to completely straight. While there are plenty of straight hair Goldendoodles out there, curly coats are definitely more common in this breed. What coat type a Goldendoodle puppy has depends entirely on the DNA passed on from their parents. Straight hair comes from the Golden Retriever side and curly hair comes from the Poodle side. Photo courtesy of boopitsremy on Instagram. What is a Flat Coat Goldendoodle? A flat coat Goldendoodle is a term used to describe Goldendoodles with straight hair that lack furnishings. Whether or not a Goldendoodle has a flat coat is based on if they have furnishings. See how the one on the left has a more scruffy, teddy-bear look? Just like humans inherit traits from their parents, so do Goldendoodles! Coat texture is one example of a trait that can be passed along from either parent breed. Coat texture can differ not only between litters of puppies but between individual puppies from the same litter! In any given litter of Goldendoodles, some puppies may have flat coats while others have curly or wavy hair. Responsible breeders take great care to select dogs from well-known bloodlines and perform extensive genetic testing prior to breeding. This not not only reduces the likelihood of genetic health issues in Goldendoodles , but it can help increase the chances of a low-shedding and allergy-friendly coat. Breeders sometimes say that straight haired Goldendoodles have an improper coat. Photo courtesy of presleydoo on Instagram. This number indicates how far removed from the initial pairing of two purebred dogs a litter is. Still confused? The generations most likely to result in a straight hair Goldendoodle are F1 or F2 since they both contain the highest percentages of Golden Retriever DNA. Alternatively, you may find a breeder that backcrosses a Goldendoodle to a Golden Retriever resulting in puppies even more likely to have a flat coat. However, this is extremely rare to come across. Most people are hoping for a curly haired Goldendoodle. Are Straight Hair Goldendoodles Hypoallergenic? Straight hair Goldendoodles will NOT be hypoallergenic. Photo courtesy of remdog. Do Straight Coat Goldendoodles Shed? Straight coat Goldendoodles will usually shed moderately. The good news is that with the right knowledge and tools, Goldendoodle shedding can be effectively managed! It all starts with a healthy diet, frequent brushing and bathing, and using the proper equipment. Straight-haired Goldendoodle puppies take after the luxurious straight coat of their Golden Retriever parent. This is because they have more dominant Golden Retriever genes. On the other hand, curly-haired Goldendoodles have physical characteristics similar to their Poodle parents. So, how do Goldendoodle puppies develop straight hair , and what factors warrant this trait? Although the Goldendoodle inherits traits from both a Golden Retriever and a Poodle; no two puppies will develop identical characteristics. This is because each of the puppies will take after the dominant gene of the parent wired in their DNA. A cute Goldendoodle puppy waits for a treat Generations Other than genetics, the generations of crossbreed preceding a particular Goldendoodle puppy and the generation the puppy belongs to also determine its coat type. F1 Goldendoodles are the first-generation Goldendoodle puppies whose line comprises a purebred Poodle and Golden Retriever. In this case, the pup will inherit half of its genetic makeup from a Poodle and the other half from a Golden Retriever. F1B Goldendoodle puppies, on the other hand, come from one purebred Poodle and one F1 Goldendoodle parent. If you want the curlier and teddy bear looks of most Goldendoodles, then look for puppies with the F1B genes. If you adopted or bought an F2 Goldendoodle puppy, you should know that this gene strain is a cross between two Goldendoodle parents. The only difference of this strain is that they are the most unpredictable in terms of coat type, which means that their offspring can have the double gene of a Golden Retriever and can develop the straight and flat coat of a straight-haired Goldendoodle. At the same, they can also be bred by crossing a purebred Poodle to F2 Goldendoodle parents. This would mean that F2B Goldendoodle Puppies have .Because there is more Poodle in the genes of these tots, chances are puppies that have the F2B gene will come out curlier and have a higher degree of physical resemblance to the Poodle. Moyen Goldendoodles are smaller than Standard Goldendoodles, and larger than Miniatures. Grooming A Flat Coat Because of their straighter hair, flat-coated Goldendoodles are often confused with Golden Retrievers, and for good reasons. However, straight-haired Goldendoodles will often have shaggier manes than their Golden Retriever ancestors. As far as grooming goes, straight-haired Goldendoodle would need brushing as well with the use of a pin or a slicker brush every few times a week. This brushing will keep their coat from being tangled, while the occasional use of a grooming mitt could keep their coat looking and feeling shiny. Flat Coat Maintenance There are many benefits to owning a Goldendoodle with straight hair. First, their hair or coat is less likely to mat than their curlier-haired siblings, so they would require less maintenance. For dog owners who like more fun and minor cosmetic care for a dog, the straight-haired Goldendoodle is ideal. Another advantage to a straight-haired Goldendoodle is that leaves, dust, and other debris are less likely to catch on their mane, unlike wavy or curly-haired Goldendoodles. Goldendoodles with a flat coat would only need a bath once they start to smell, and this will solely depend on the environment they are living in or whether or not they are potty trained. All in all, the grooming that flat-coated Goldendoodle dogs and puppies require is very minimal and depends on the occasion. This is the perfect dog for families with a busy schedule but still would love to have a dog to play with and care for. A cute dog having a bath. Keep that smell under control! Do Flat-Coat Goldendoodles Shed? There are many benefits to a flat-coated Goldendoodle; however, there are also downsides to this adorable mixed breed compared to its other cousins, the wavy or the curly-haired Goldendoodles. The first is that the flat-coat Goldendoodle sheds more fur than its counterparts, the wavy and curly-haired Goldendoodles. This is because, genetically, a flat coat Goldendoodle is less Poodle than a Golden Retriever. The good news is, for lovers of Golden Retrievers who are allergic to the breed because of the amount of hair they tend to shed, the flat-coated Goldendoodle is a great option. It has the intelligence of the Golden Retriever but comes without the shedding! As Flat Coat Goldendoodles shed more, they are less hypoallergenic. There is a happy middle ground, but no dog breed can completely be hypoallergenic. This is the case for the breed Goldendoodle , which has the advantage of shedding less. Another fact to know is that dog hair is not what people are allergic to but the dander or the skin cells and saliva. It is correlated because dogs who shed more hair or fur also tend to shed more dander. A Goldendoodle looking up and tongue out. The most straightforward and surefire way to know what coat your Goldendoodle puppy will have once fully grown is by checking the hair around its mouth. A Goldendoodle puppy will grow a curly coat if the hair around its mouth is tight, curly, or kinky. In contrast, a wavy-haired Goldendoodle will have wavy hair once it matures if its hair is wavy around the mouth with loose curls. Straight-haired Goldendoodle are characterized by their short and straight hair on their face and around their mouth as a puppy. A red Goldendoodle puppy. A Goldendoodle is also known as a Groodle. Their size is not fixed and depends on their parents. They come in three sizes—miniature, medium, and standard. Goldendoodles are highly sociable and can live in a country or city setting. Just make sure that they go on walks for 20 to 30 minutes every day to get their daily dose of exercise. Although they need proper socialization to avoid aggressive or shy behavior, Goldendoodles are highly trainable. Aside from being an all-around excellent house dog, the Goldendoodle is also great as a working dog—they work as guide, service, therapy, and sniffer dogs. You are sure to find one trusty companion in a Goldendoodle. A tongue out Goldendoodle with a bandana. Goldendoodle Coat Types Many people desire Goldendoodles because of their health and temperament. However, this mixed breed is also preferred because of its little-to-no-shedding and hypoallergenic status, which is essential for dog lovers who are allergic or sensitive to shedding. A Goldendoodle puppy will develop one of three coats once grown—wavy, curly, or straight. Coats will depend on the genes the Goldendoodle has inherited from its parents. Keep reading to discover more about each potential Goldendoodle coat. Wavy Goldendoodle Coat The shaggy or wavy coat is the most common one. To get this kind of coat, the pup should have inherited one curl gene and one non-curl gene from its parents. Goldendoodles with this coat type will have hair on their body that grows anywhere from 4 to 7 inches or 10 to 18 centimeters if left ungroomed. In contrast, the hair around the face will typically be shorter. The wavy-coated Goldendoodle is low shedding but would still require regular brushing and grooming to prevent knots from developing in their fur. Maintaining them will be effortless just as long as the owner keeps brushing their coat at least once a week. Wavy coat Goldendoodles are typically low shedding. Curly Goldendoodle Coat The curly-haired Goldendoodle has the densest hair type. A curly coat develops when both the parents have the curly gene. These Goldendoodles take more on the Poodle side of their lineage. They are the non-shedding ones of the bunch and are more or less allergy-friendly; this is a plus for all sensitive dog lovers since curly-haired Goldendoodle can have really kinky curls or big barrel curls. Owners who live by the beach should be wary of sand getting caught in the curly fur of this dog. In terms of grooming, regular brushing once or twice a week will prevent knotting, while hair trimming twice or thrice a year will be all it needs. A Goldendoodle lie down on the couch. Straight Goldendoodle Coat [Flat Coat] The straight coat of a straight-haired Goldendoodle is most often called a loose hair coat. While the curly-haired Goldendoodle takes most from the Poodle line of parents, the straight-haired Goldendoodle takes more from the Golden Retriever line. Although the straight furs on these fur babies mean that they are generally low maintenance, this fur type makes them the top shedders among all Goldendoodles. This can be bad news for Goldendoodle lovers who are sensitive to dog hair. Straight-haired Goldendoodles require low maintenance but still need brushing like their other siblings. Brushing will prevent problems like knotting and premature shedding, especially if the Goldendoodle is wearing a dog collar. A Goldendoodle sitting on the grass. Final Thoughts That concludes our Goldendoodle guide, and we hope that you learned a lot from it. Just remember the basics of reading the hair on the sides of the mouth of a Goldendoodle puppy, and you will know what strain of mixed-breed you have as it enters adolescence. Flat-coat Goldendoodles will be more prone to shedding fur, sure, but they make up for it by needing less maintenance than their cousins. In contrast to the teddy bear likeness of a curly or wavy-haired Goldendoodle, the flat-coat Goldendoodle will have smoother and shaggier fur, which is also cute in itself. Whatever the genetic strain of the Goldendoodle, the owner must keep in mind that whether or not their dog looks like a bear, in the end, Goldendoodles will love their owners just the same. And this adorable breed definitely deserves to be loved back. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Breeds The link has been copied! Get ready to fall in love with the Straight Hair Goldendoodle - they are sure to bring a smile to your face and endless joy to your life! The Straight Hair Goldendoodle is a delightful and joyous breed that has captured the hearts of many. With their cheerful disposition, friendly personality and unique appearance, these dogs are the epitome of love, happiness and fun. They are a perfect blend of their Golden Retriever and Poodle parents , and have the best qualities of both breeds. Their straight hair adds a touch of elegance and grace, making them stand out in a crowd. These dogs are intelligent, playful, and affectionate, making them ideal family pets. Straight Hair Goldendoodle It's a common trait for this breed and is a result of their Poodle genes. The flat coat is low-shedding and low-maintenance, making it a popular choice for those with allergies or who don't want to spend a lot of time grooming their pet. However, it's important to note that the coat may require regular trims to maintain its shape and keep it looking neat. Whether a flat coat is good or bad is subjective and ultimately depends on individual preferences and needs. The important thing is to ensure the dog is healthy and well-cared for, regardless of its coat type. Can Goldendoodles Have Straight Hair? Yes, Goldendoodles can have straight hair. Goldendoodles are a crossbreed of a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, and the coat type of each individual dog will depend on the dominant genes it inherits from its parents. Some Goldendoodles have curly hair, which is typical of Poodles, while others have wavy or straight hair, which is more typical of Golden Retrievers. Are Goldendoodles Always Curly? No, Goldendoodles are not always curly haired. The coat can range from loose waves to tight ringlets and everything in between. It's important to note that the coat may change as the dog grows older and that regular grooming may be necessary to maintain the desired appearance of the coat. What Is a Flat Coat Goldendoodle? The "Flat Coat" refers to the coat type, which is less curly and wavier than other Goldendoodle coat types. This breed is known for being friendly, intelligent, and having a low-shedding coat. The Flat Coat Goldendoodle is a popular choice for families due to their friendly and affectionate nature. They are often described as sociable, outgoing and gentle dogs, making them great companions for children and adults alike. They are also highly trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, making them a great choice for first-time dog owners or those looking for a well-behaved pet. It's important to note that as a hybrid breed, the temperament and appearance of a Flat Coat Goldendoodle can vary widely, with traits from both parent breeds appearing in different combinations. This is why it's important to meet the individual dog and their parents before adoption to ensure a good match for your household. Goldendoodles with straight hair are relatively rare compared to their more curly-coated counterparts. This is because the curly coat is a dominant trait in Poodles, which is one of the breeds used to create the Goldendoodle. While some Goldendoodles may have a straighter coat, it is not a common or consistent characteristic of the breed. It's important to keep in mind that Goldendoodles can have a range of coat types, including wavy, curly, and even corded, and the coat type can vary even within the same litter. The coat type of a Goldendoodle is largely determined by the genes they inherit from their parents. When looking for a Goldendoodle with a straight coat, it may be helpful to work with a reputable breeder who can provide information about the coat type of the individual dog and their parents. However, it's also important to keep in mind that coat type should not be the only factor considered when choosing a Goldendoodle, as temperament and personality are just as important in determining if a dog will be a good fit for your household. The coat type of a Goldendoodle, including the flat coat, can vary widely depending on the specific genes that the dog inherits from its parents. However, it's generally believed that the coat type of a Goldendoodle can be influenced by the generation of the cross. F1 Goldendoodles , which are first generation crosses between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, tend to have a wider range of coat types and textures, including flat coats. F1B Goldendoodles, which are a cross between an F1 Goldendoodle and a Poodle, tend to have curlier coats due to the higher proportion of Poodle genes. It's important to keep in mind that the coat type of a Goldendoodle can be influenced by many factors, and that there is a great deal of variation within each generation. In general, the coat type of a Goldendoodle is largely determined by the genes that the dog inherits from its parents. When choosing a Goldendoodle, it's important to meet the individual dog and their parents to get a better idea of what coat type to expect. Are Straight Hair Goldendoodles Hypoallergenic? Goldendoodles, including those with straight hair, are often marketed as being hypoallergenic due to their Poodle heritage. However, it's important to note that no dog is truly hypoallergenic. All dogs produce dander, which is a major cause of allergies in some people, and some dogs also produce a protein in their saliva that can cause an allergic reaction. The idea that Poodles are hypoallergenic is based on the belief that their curly coat is less likely to shed and produce dander compared to other breeds. While this may be true to some extent, the coat type of a Goldendoodle, including straight hair, can still produce dander and trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. If you have allergies and are considering getting a Goldendoodle, it's recommended to spend time with the individual dog to see if they trigger your allergies before making a decision to adopt. Additionally, it may be helpful to work with a reputable breeder who can provide information about the health and temperament of the individual dog and their parents. Do Straight Coat Goldendoodles Shed? Yes, straight coat Goldendoodles can shed, just like any other breed of dog. While the Poodle, one of the breeds used to create the Goldendoodle, is known for having a low-shedding coat, the shedding of a Goldendoodle can vary depending on the genes they inherit from their parents. Goldendoodles with a straighter coat may shed more than those with a curly coat due to the hair being more loosely attached to the skin. However, the shedding can still be minimal compared to many other breeds of dogs, especially if they inherit more of the Poodle's low-shedding genes. It's important to keep in mind that all dogs shed to some extent, and that the amount of shedding can vary even within the same litter. When choosing a Goldendoodle, it may be helpful to spend time with the individual dog and their parents to get a better idea of their shedding tendencies. Additionally, regular grooming and brushing can help minimize shedding and keep the coat looking healthy and shiny. Yes, it is possible for F1b Goldendoodles to have straight hair, although it is not as common as the curly or wavy coats. F1b Goldendoodles are a cross between an F1 Goldendoodle Golden Retriever x Poodle and a Poodle, and as a result, they tend to have a higher proportion of Poodle genes and a curlier coat. However, coat type is determined by a complex interaction of genes and is not a guaranteed characteristic of a specific generation of Goldendoodle. While F1b Goldendoodles are often bred for their curly coats, some individuals may have a straighter coat due to the influence of other genes. Additionally, the coat type of a F1b Goldendoodle can vary even within the same litter. How Maintenance And Grooming Differs The maintenance and grooming requirements for a straight coat Goldendoodle may differ from those with curly or wavy coats. The amount and frequency of grooming needed can also vary depending on the individual dog's hair length, thickness, and rate of growth. Wavy Coat Maintenance Wavy coat Goldendoodles typically require more maintenance compared to those with straight coats, but less than those with curly coats. Wavy coat Goldendoodles need to be brushed regularly, at least once or twice a week, to prevent matting and tangling of the hair. A slicker brush or comb is a useful tool for removing loose hair and distributing natural oils throughout the coat. It's also important to avoid over-bathing a wavy coat Goldendoodle, as this can strip the coat of its natural oils and cause it to become dry and frizzy. When bathing is necessary, it's recommended to use a gentle, moisturizing dog shampoo to keep the coat soft and shiny. Wavy coat Goldendoodles may also benefit from regular grooming sessions with a professional groomer to keep the coat in good condition and maintain its shape. These sessions can include trimming, shaping, and clipping to maintain the desired length and style of the hair. Curly Coat Maintenance Curly coat Goldendoodles require frequent brushing, at least once or twice a week, to prevent their fur from matting and tangling. This is because of their high maintenance coat and the fact that its length, thickness, and rate of growth can vary from dog to dog. For the best results, it's advised to use a slicker brush or comb to remove loose hair and distribute natural oils throughout the coat. It's also important to limit the amount of baths for a curly coat Goldendoodle, as this can strip away the natural oils and make their fur dry and frizzy. If a bath is necessary, opt for a gentle, moisturizing dog shampoo to keep the coat soft and shiny. In addition to regular brushing, regular grooming sessions with a professional groomer can help to maintain the shape of the hair and keep it looking its best. These sessions may include trimming, shaping, and clipping. Finally, it's important not to brush a curly coat Goldendoodle's hair when it's wet, as this can cause matting and tangling. Instead, use a wide-tooth comb to detangle the hair and retain its beautiful curls. Straight Coat Maintenance Straight coat Goldendoodles typically require less grooming and maintenance compared to their curly or wavy coat counterparts. However, it's still important to keep their coats in good condition by brushing them regularly. A weekly brushing with a slicker brush or comb can help remove loose hair and distribute natural oils throughout the coat, keeping it shiny and healthy. This simple grooming routine will also prevent matting and tangling, which can be a problem for straight coated breeds. While trimming is not necessary for all straight coated Goldendoodles, some individuals may benefit from a regular trim to maintain the length and shape of their hair. This can be done by a professional groomer or with the help of clippers or scissors at home. It's also important to avoid over-bathing a straight coat Goldendoodle, as this can strip the coat of its natural oils and cause it to become dry and brittle. A straight coat Goldendoodle can make a great pet for many different families and individuals. Some reasons why you may want to consider getting a straight coat Goldendoodle include: Lower grooming needs: Straight coat Goldendoodles typically require less grooming and maintenance compared to their curly or wavy coat counterparts, making them a good choice for those who don't want to spend a lot of time and money on grooming. Minimal shedding: Goldendoodles are known for being low shedding dogs, and straight coated individuals are no exception. This can be a great benefit for those with allergies or who are looking for a pet that won't leave hair all over their furniture. Easy to care for: Straight coat Goldendoodles are relatively low maintenance, making them a good choice for busy families or individuals who want a pet that is easy to care for. Affectionate and playful: Goldendoodles are known for being affectionate and playful dogs, and straight coat individuals are no exception. They can make great companions and family pets for those who enjoy spending time with their pets. Ultimately, whether a straight coat Goldendoodle is the right choice for you will depend on your lifestyle, preferences, and individual needs. It's important to research the breed thoroughly and consider all factors before making a decision to ensure you find the right pet for you. Conclusion Straight Coat Goldendoodles are a unique and versatile breed that can make great pets for families and individuals looking for a low maintenance and low shedding pet. These dogs typically have lower grooming needs compared to their curly or wavy coat counterparts and are known for being affectionate, playful, and easy to care for. However, it's important to keep in mind that the needs and personality of each individual dog can vary, and thorough research and careful consideration is necessary to ensure you find the right pet for you. For additional pet-parenting tips, head over to TryFi. And don't forget to check out TryFi's innovative Fi Dog Collar , which offers GPS tracking, activity monitoring, and escape alerts to keep your furry friend safe. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. The Goldendoodle breed is generally known for its curly and wavy hair. It can be pretty surprising to discover a Goldendoodle with a flat coat. You can click here to get answers to common questions about flat coat Goldendoodles. A straight hair Goldendoodle is more like a golden retriever with a beard, mustache, and a typical Goldendoodle look. But what are the situations where a Goldendoodle gets a flat coat? In the case of F1 or first-generation Goldendoodle puppies, one purebred golden retriever parent and one purebred poodle parent are bred together. Therefore, puppies inherit 50 percent of their genetic composition from each parent. As a result, while some F1 Goldendoodles may get the curly coat of the poodle parent, others may have a flat, straight coat resembling a golden retriever. If the dogs are 2nd generation or F2 Goldendoodles, there are also substantial chances of acquiring straight hair or a flat coat. You can also try to find a breeder who backcrosses Goldendoodles with golden retrievers, which is rare. Genetics Despite having the qualities of both golden retrievers and poodles, no two Goldendoodle puppies will grow up with the same traits. This is because each puppy will inherit the dominant gene of the parent that gets imprinted into their DNA. Standard poodles are usually the source of the Cu locus gene in Goldendoodles. At five to seven months, they often begin to shed their coats and develop their adult coats. You may see changes in color fading at an early age. Even darker Goldendoodle puppies may lose some of their colors and become lighter as they age. And depending on the genes, a puppy will get flat or curly hair. Adult and puppy coats differ primarily in texture. In contrast, you can frequently see flat coats in F2 or F2b litters. Flat-coated doodles are less frequent because most Goldendoodle puppy buyers prefer the characteristic curly-coated doodle appearance. It is quite possible that if you see an adult doodle with a flat coat, you might not even recognize it as a Goldendoodle. You may consider it a golden retriever because of its appearance. These are more uncommon types of Goldendoodle. Genetic testing is the only way to tell with percent certainty which coat genes a pup has inherited. Apart from that, there are a few signs you can check. Looking at the hair around their mouth is a great way to predict the coat your puppy will have in adulthood. The last thing is to ask the breeder or kennel where you bought the puppy. Your puppy will have tightly curled hair around his mouth if he is likely to have a curly coat. Puppies with straight coats have short, straight hair around their mouths. How Do Maintenance and Grooming Differ? There are many benefits to maintaining and grooming a flat coat Goldendoodle. Below we have enclosed the grooming difference between flap, curly, and wavy Goldendoodles. READ - Labradoodle vs. Wavy Coat The most common and popular coat type in Goldendoodles is a shaggy and wavy coat. This coat has a fuzzy appearance and requires minor maintenance of all three types. You must frequently brush your furry companion to remove stray hairs and mats to keep its coat healthy and tangle-free. Such types of coats have low to no shedding. Curly Coat Your puppy will probably have a tight, curled coat if he generally resembles the poodle parent. As a result, you can have long barrel ringlets or tight, kinky poodle curls. It would be best if you did regular grooming for Goldendoodle dogs to prevent their coat from matting. Though a flat coat is easy to maintain, it sheds more than usual. The upside of this is that you will save time and money on grooming and maintenance. Furthermore, brush them a few times weekly to keep their coat beautiful. You can best schedule a bath accordingly. Downsides of a Flat Coat Goldendoodle Though getting a flat coat Goldendoodle puppy has many benefits, it also has some downsides. Shedding The main drawback of flat coat Goldendoodles is that they tend to shed more than curly and wavy Goldendoodles. This happens because the straight-haired Goldendoodle has a lower proportion of poodle DNA in its genetic makeup than the other two types. However, one thing to note is that flat-coat Goldendoodles still shed less than purebred golden retrievers do. So if you are planning to buy a flat coat Goldendoodle puppy, be ready for lots of hair on your floors and beds. You should set a regular brushing schedule, use the right kind of shampoo, give them balanced food, and utilize supplements as needed. Less Hypoallergenic Since flat coat Goldendoodles shed more, it goes without saying that they will be less hypoallergenic. The main reason is that they are more genetically similar to golden retrievers than poodles. A puppy is hypoallergenic if he has the qualities of a non-shedding and curly coat. Both are absent in flat coat Goldendoodles. The dander, a mixture of expelled skin cells and saliva, causes the allergy. Dogs that shed a lot of hair also tend to shed more dander. It is easily manageable. Additionally, they frequently represent the most affordable generations. You can buy them at a lower price than curly and wavy Goldendoodles. You may occasionally overlook flat-coated puppies since many dog owners prefer allergy-friendly curly coats over flat coats. It does not tangle as easily as curly hair. Also, they are less prone to matting. Low Litter Selection Competition Most pet owners prefer curly and wavy coats, so it is an excellent option for you to pick a flat-coat Goldendoodle. Great Health and Temperament If you buy any puppy, ensure they are healthy and have a great temperament. Flat Goldendoodle puppies are considered healthy with a great temperament. You can even train them quickly. They are gentle, loyal, and understanding and make you smile with their funny actions. Conclusion Flat coat Goldendoodle puppies can be excellent pets for homes. So if you are thinking of adopting a flat coat Goldendoodle puppy, we think it is a great decision. We hope this guide has helped you learn everything about flat coat Goldendoodles. We have thoroughly discussed straight-hair Goldendoodles, including genetics, maintenance, grooming, and the downsides of the breed. We have also made things easy for you by providing information on the essential things you must look at before adopting a flat-coat Goldendoodle puppy. Flat Coat Goldendoodle Puppy, also known as Straight Hair Goldendoodles , have become a popular dog type because many dog enthusiasts like the flat coat or straight hair that resembles a Golden Retriever. It makes these furry friends look more like teddy bears. If you are looking for a friendly temperament, non-shedding, and hypoallergenic dog, this is one of the best options. With this, you will maximize your chances of selecting a Goldendoodle with a flat coat. This article will discuss everything you need to know about a flat Coat Goldendoodle. Keep reading to learn more. So, how will your Goldendoodle end up with a straight or flat coat? The absence of this gene means that your Goldendoodle will have straight hair or a flat coat. The gene usually prevents keratin from binding together structural components, which leads to a curly coat. Therefore, if your Goldendoodle does not have keratin in its genetic structure, it will have a straight or flat coat. A DNA test can help you determine whether or not your furry friend has the presence of this gene. Generally, most Goldendoodles tend to have a wavy coat and will not have flat or straight coats. They are a hybrid dog breed of the Poodle and the Golden Retriever and usually get a mix of the Cu Locus gene. If you are looking for a flat or straight coat Goldendoodle, then you need to consider a 1st generation Goldendoodle or F1 Goldendoodle. There are also high chances of getting straight hair or flat coat Goldendoodle if they are 2nd generation Goldendoodle or F2 Goldendoodle. Because most Goldendoodles are backcrossed bred with a Poodle to become non-shedding and more hypoallergenic, you will not need backcrossed Goldendoodles. If you want straight hair or a flat coat Goldendoodle, then you will need more Golden Retriever genetics. The coats are typically wavy to curly. F1BB Goldendoodle: .The coats are typically curly. The highest chance of straight hair or flat coat Goldendoodle F2B Goldendoodle: .F2BB Goldendoodle: .Multi-generation Goldendoodle or F3 Goldendoodle: Various generations of Goldendoodles breeding typically back crossbreeding to the Standard Poodle. You can also try to find a dog breeder that backcrosses Goldendoodles with Golden Retrievers. Goldendoodle Coat Changes Goldendoodle puppies also change their coats while reaching adulthood. They will mostly start shedding their coats at the age of 5 to 7 months and transition into adult coats. The transition can happen gradually over a few months or suddenly. In addition, darker-colored Goldendoodle puppies may also fade their color and become lighter as they mature. Generally, the difference between adult and puppy coats is mostly textural. While a puppy coat is usually thinner and softer, an adult Goldendoodle coat often has a thicker and stiffer texture. Some puppies may have curlier and straighter hair and grow into a different coat type once they are adults. Less Daily Grooming Keeping a flat coat or straight hair Goldendoodle looking good and healthy will take less effort and time. Straight hair is regarded as one of the easiest to manage. Therefore, you will not have to spend a lot of time grooming your furry friend. Lower Price The F2 and F1 generations produce the most Goldendoodles with flat coats or straight hair. Besides, they tend to be the cheapest generations available. Since many prospective dog owners prefer allergy-friendly curly coats, puppies with flat coats may sometimes be discounted. Less Competitive Litter Selection Since many upcoming Goldendoodle owners want wavy and curly coats, it is less important for you to have the first few picks of any litter. There are chances that any puppy with straight hair or a flat coat will be passed up until it is your turn. Less Frequent Haircuts The silver lining to a Goldendoodle shedding means that they will require haircuts less frequently. It is less prone to matting and does not knot as easily as curly hair. Less frequent haircuts mean that you will be able to save some money. Less Poodle-Like Appearance Many dog enthusiasts prefer the original Golden Retriever appearance that flat coat Goldendoodles often have. These puppies still from less shedding and hybrid vigor but still look like their purebred Golden Retriever. Downsides Of A Flat Coat Goldendoodle Although getting a flat coat Goldendoodle comes with several benefits, it also has a few downsides compared to a wavy to curly-haired Goldendoodle. This is because flatter coats have less Poodle genetics, thus making the puppy have a curlier coat. If you consider bringing home a flat coat Goldendoodle, be prepared to have hair than will shed on your floor. However, Golden Retrievers tend to shed more than the flat coat Goldendoodles. Less Hypoallergenic Generally, flat coat Goldendoodles tend to be less hypoallergenic. This is because they have more Golden Retriever genetics but less Poodle genetics. The hypoallergenic feature usually comes from the non-shedding and curly coat features. How Maintenance And Grooming Differs There is a difference in the maintenance and grooming requirements of straight and curly coat Goldendoodles. Wavy Coat The shaggy or wavy coat is the most common coat among the Goldendoodles. It has a shaggy appearance and requires the least maintenance of the three types of coats. To keep this coat in good health and tangle-free, you will have to brush your furry friend regularly to get rid of loose hair and mats. Curly Coat If your Goldendoodle takes mostly after its Poodle parent, it will likely have a tight curly coat. The length and tightness of the curls usually vary depending on the parents. Therefore, you can have tight and kinky Poodle curls or loose and long barrel ringlets. Goldendoodles with curly coats require regular grooming to prevent their hair from matting. This is why most doodle owners consider having their canine friends shaved close in order to create a maintenance-free style. Flat Coats The straight-coated or flat-coated Goldendoodles are often mistaken for Golden Retrievers. Flat coat Goldendoodles do not have the furnishings of their curly-coated counterparts. However, they tend to shed a lot more. The flat coat is easy to maintain and does not tend to mat. This makes it very popular with dog owners who may not want to take a lot of time grooming their furry friends. You will need to brush your pet with a slicker or pin brush several times a week and wipe it over with a grooming mitt. This will ensure that their coat looks good throughout. Besides, these adorable furry friends do not have hairy feet that you will have to inspect and comb every day. You should never have a flat coat Goldendoodle clipped or shaved. Your flat coat Goldendoodle will require a bath only when it develops the unpleasant doggy odor that most pets develop after a while. Also, a bath will be necessary if your furry friend decides to roll in something unspeakably nasty. Their coat texture may change as that Poodle and Golden Retriever gene combination battle it out in the dog. Conclusion You are now answered if you have been asking yourself what a flat coat Goldendoodle is. This adorable coat can be an excellent addition to any family. If you target a flat coat Goldendoodle, you will have to focus on either an F2 Goldendoodle or an F1 Goldendoodle. Sharing is caring! If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More A Goldendoodle with straight hair might have been a rare sight in the recent past, but they are gaining much recognition in Doodle circles. Just as adorable as their curly and wavy counterparts, Goldendoodles with straight hair sport a less Poodle-like look while also benefiting from a less demanding coat care regimen. Can Goldendoodles Have Straight Hair? The Goldendoodle is probably one of the most popular hybrid breeds thanks to its amazing personality, loving nature , and hypoallergenic coat. As the Goldendoodle is a mix of the Golden Retriever and Poodle, the puppies will inherit their genetic makeup from both of the parents. Consequently, this gives us a wide range of estimates about how the Goldendoodle puppies might turn out. Some pups will inherit their looks and traits from the Poodle parent, while others take after the Golden Retriever parent. By combining the genetics of the Golden Retriever and Poodle, Goldendoodles can come in four coat types — curly, wavy, straight, and flat coat. This makes them the perfect choice for people who struggle with allergies. People often refer to straight coat Goldendoodles as flat-coated. However, not all straight coat Goldendoodles have flat coats. If straight coat Goldendoodles have fluffy beards, eyebrows, and ears, then flat coat pups have short and smooth facial hair. In fact, they look very much like the Golden Retriever parent. After all, the purpose was to create a breed that has many of the same qualities as the Golden Retriever, but with an allergy-friendly coat. Although breeders often prefer to produce curlier Goldendoodles, straight haired Goldendoodles can just as well happen. Naturally, a Goldendoodle is more likely to have a straight coat if their lineage includes equal parts of the purebred parents. So, why exactly do some Goldendoodles have straight hair? Genetics Whether a Goldendoodle has straight hair or a curly coat, the biggest key factor is their genetic makeup. Naturally, the outcome is never the same. Some puppies exhibit dominant Poodle genes, others have more dominant Golden Retriever genes. What determines if a Goldendoodle pup gets curly, wavy, or straight coat is the presence and amount of curl genes. Additionally, genetics also determine if a puppy can get a flat coat. Many Goldendoodle breeders do genetic testing on their parent pups to know what coat types can be achieved. However, keep in mind that not all breeders have their dogs DNA tested.

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click on a link and purchase the item. This comes at no extra cost to you. Is there anything cuter than a two-month-old Golden Retriever puppy? At eight weeks old, they are absolutely, impossibly, unbearably adorable! At two months old, a Golden Retriever is ready to leave their mother and littermates to join their new family. Some breeders will keep a puppy for a couple more weeks before sending them home, but eight weeks is very typical. Puppies at this age are usually playful and curious, with brains like little sponges. This usually only lasts a day or two, and then their true personality will shine through! They are in the prime socialization window here, which is the time between three and sixteen weeks when puppies are most open to learning about the world. Proper socialization can help you buffer against potential behavior issues as your pup matures, and teaches them how to feel and act in different situations and environments. It helps them feel confident and self-assured. A two-month-old Golden Retriever puppy is constantly learning! Make sure your puppy is learning that they are safe and that they can trust you both at home and out in the world. A fear period is a temporary span of time where a puppy may be more sensitive to things like strange people, strange dogs, inanimate objects, sounds, etc. It usually lasts about a week and you may notice your puppy showing signs of fear such as cowering, running away, growling, or barking. It can be a little scary as the owner of a puppy to see them acting this way. The good thing is that a fear period is short-lived and will pass. If they are concerned about something or someone, help them get more distance so they can observe the thing while feeling safe. They have a lot of needs and are totally dependent on you to meet those needs. Be patient as you help them learn how to live in our human world, and you can develop a strong, positive bond with your new companion. Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook! This is heavily influenced by genetics, but is not always the best indicator of their adult weight. Some lines of Goldens are bigger or smaller than average, so puppy size will reflect that. Your vet can help you make sure that your puppy is at an appropriate weight if you have any concerns. Eight-week-old Golden Retrievers need around 18 hours of sleep each day. Oftentimes, a puppy that is wild and bitey is in fact overly tired and in need of a nap. It may seem like they need more exercise to drain that crazy energy, but they actually need sleep. Using crates and pens can help ensure that your puppy is getting enough sleep at night and throughout the day. Many two-month-old Goldens are not good at putting themselves down for a nap, even when they really need it. So, you may need to step in and help your puppy settle in for some sleep. Make sure that their crate or pen is nice and comfy before you put them in for a nap, so they are more able to relax and fall asleep. Every puppy is different, so yours may prefer a nice cushy bed , or they may actually like laying on the bare floor. You can take note of what kinds of surfaces your puppy lays on around the house and then recreate that in the crate or pen. Covering the crate or pen with a blanket can also help make sleep easier for a two-month-old puppy, as it cuts down on the visual stimulation. Products like Adaptil spray or diffuser , and the Snuggle Puppy toy can also help a puppy settle in for sleep. Chewing and licking are naturally calming behaviors for puppies, so it can also help if you offer something like a stuffed kong , which can assist in transitioning the puppy from awake to asleep. Playing Classical music can also help a puppy feel more calm and able to sleep. At this age, most two-month-old puppies are ready for sleep after about an hour of awake time, so by following these tips, you can help make sure your puppy is getting enough quality rest. Instead, you can give them a break and see if they choose to get up, or simply scoop them up and walk home. Sometimes people get a Golden Retriever to be a running or biking companion, which can be a great thing when the pup is a fully grown adult, but is too much exercise for a young puppy. Playing with toys in the house or in the yard can be a great way for young pups to burn some of that puppy energy. If you have a yard, letting your pup safely explore and run around outside can also be a nice way to get in some exercise. You may also find that your puppy needs more sleep on some days, and on other days, they need more playtime and exercise. Golden Retrievers as a breed can also vary a lot in terms of exercise needs. Some are pretty laid back and chill and others are up for anything and want to go hard. These differences can be reflected in how much energy your puppy has, as well as in what kind and how much exercise your puppy needs. Training is an excellent way to build a positive bond with your puppy and create a way to communicate with each other. Group puppy classes can be a good option for getting started with training, as the trainer will help you learn how to train your pup. You can also hire a certified, professional trainer to come to your home and provide personalized training guidance for you and your puppy. Before you sign up with any trainer, be sure to ask them what kind of training methods and tools they use, to avoid causing any physical or mental distress for your puppy. Potty training is definitely a top priority for two-month-old puppies. They have small bladders and bowels and will need frequent trips outside to help them learn appropriate potty behavior. Crate training can also be started at this age, as learning how to be okay with confinement is an important life skill. Eight-week-old Golden Retriever puppies eat about a half cup of food three times per day. There is no one-size-fits-all rule when it comes to feeding your two-month-old Golden. Puppies at this age need more frequent meals than adult Goldens, so three meals a day is recommended. Because two-month-old Goldens are undergoing so much growth at this stage, feed them high-quality food that can support them as they mature. Most Goldens have big appetites and will happily gobble down their meals when you serve them. Using slow feeder bowls like this bowl on Amazon , or other food dispensing toys, such as the Planet Dog Snoop , can help slow down their eating and provide them some mental stimulation while they eat. Puppies like to put things in their mouth as a way to learn and play. Unfortunately, it can be pretty painful for humans, as those puppy teeth are needle-sharp! There are, however, some things you can do to minimize and deal with the biting. First, ensure that your two-month-old Golden is getting enough sleep. Overly tired puppies tend to get super bitey and frenzied, so naps are key to preventing your puppy from turning into a piranha. Your floor might look a little cluttered, but it helps to keep toys within reach for a quick redirection. Third, you can simply give the puppy a break if they are on a biting spree. You could step on the other side of a baby gate or put them in their pen to calm down a bit, and then resume the play. This communicates to the puppy that when they bite, they lose access to you and the fun stops. A common piece of advice when dealing with puppy biting is to yelp in response to their nip, as if you were another dog. This is actually not a good way to handle puppy biting and can actually make it worse. Other puppies will be further excited by the yelp sound and come at you with even more intensity, resulting in harder bites. Good Beginnings Bringing a two-month-old Golden Retriever home is a very exciting thing. It can also feel pretty overwhelming as you figure out how to care for and train them. You might be sleep-deprived and have a couple scratches on your hand from those sharp puppy teeth, but try to keep in mind that this is the beginning of a special relationship with an incredible animal. Focus on bonding with your puppy, teaching them about the world, and creating good habits from the start. Have any questions about raising eight-week-old golden retrievers? Let me know down in the comments! Read the rest of our Golden Retriever puppy series here:. How much does an 8-week-old Golden Retriever sleep? How much exercise does your 2-month-old Golden Retriever need? Eight weeks is typically when breeders allow puppies to be taken to their new homes, but some breeders keep them for a couple of extra weeks. This shy, sleepy puppy will eventually get more comfortable with its new environment and come out of its shell in a couple of days. Socialization is important for eight-week-old golden pups. Getting your pup used to these things is a good way to avoid potential behavioral issues as the puppy matures because it allows them to learn how to feel and react to various stimuli and leaves you with a confident, well-adjusted pup. You need to reinforce the idea that your puppy is safe and gain their trust during this time period. During this time, pups will be a little more fearful of things like strangers, sounds, and certain objects. It will pass, and usually only lasts a week or so. It can be a little scary or discouraging for the owner of a golden puppy to see them go through this fear period, especially if they start exhibiting fear towards people. Goldens are known to be such friendly and social dogs, so watching them exhibit such antisocial traits can be off-putting. You can still get them outside and introduce them to new things, just remain mindful of their feelings. You need to be patient with an eight-week-old puppy. These adorable balls of energy and fluff are completely dependent on you to meet their needs and there are a LOT of needs! Check out our article on the Best Shampoo for Golden Retrievers so you can meet their hygiene needs! You need to be patient with them so that you can not only bond with your new pup, but also help him grow and learn about the world around him. Sometimes the puppy that was the smallest puppy in the litter can grow and quickly become the largest. And the largest puppy of the litter may not always remain the largest. As a breed, Golden Retrievers vary in size and weight. So you should enjoy that before they grow too big to pick up and cuddle! You may be surprised to learn that 8-week-old Golden puppies require about 18 hours of sleep a day. This may seem counter-intuitive because most people would assume that if a puppy is full of energy it needs to run it off, but in all actuality what they really need is sleep. You should use either pens or crates to make sure that your pup gets the optimal amount of sleep both through the night and during the day. Here are some things you can do to help your puppy nap: Adorn their crate or pen with comfortable blankets or pillows. Learn whether your pup likes to sleep on a bed or on the floor, then set their crate or pen up accordingly. Cover the crate or pen using a blanket or towel so that their visual stimulation is limited. You can use aromatherapy products for dogs to lull your pup to sleep. Get your puppy something like a stuffed Kong toy because licking and chewing are relaxing to pups. Classical or calming music can help your puppy get to sleep. You can expect that your pup should be ready for a nap after being awake for around an hour. So, you can get him to sleep easier using these tips. An 8-week-old Golden Retriever puppy is largely able to know how much exercise it needs all on its own. What you should do instead is either pick them up and take them home or give them a break and see if they get a second wind. Golden Retrievers excel at playing fetch, but you need to keep games short. The running and then suddenly stopping to pick the ball or toy up and bring it back is hard on their tiny bones. People often adopt Golden Retrievers with the intent of getting a companion to exercise with running, hiking, biking, etc. Allowing your puppy to play with toys in your yard or house can be a good, safe way for your puppy to exercise. Having a yard is ideal because you can let your pup run around the yard and explore, while also burning off some excess energy. Just make sure you choose a short, easy walk that your puppy can handle. However, some days they have more energy than others, which is normal. Every Golden Retriever has varying exercise needs. Some are pretty chill and would rather lay around, while others are really hyper and active. You need to know that positive reinforcement works best for Golden Retrievers. You should avoid any sort of training that is based on punishment. There are also other training methods that can be beneficial to your pup. Group training is a good way to get your pup acquainted with other dogs and learn alongside them, while the trainer provides you with ways to better train your pup. You also have the option to hire a professional dog trainer, who will come to your house and give you customized tips to train your puppy. Before hiring any sort of trainer, ask them about the methods they use to avoid distress for puppies. They need to learn about confinement early on. Another important thing to teach your pup is their name, and to come to you when you call them. The bond with your pup is vital to any other training you do with them. For more about the training process, check out our article about Golden Retriever Puppy Training. Hey, food is good, okay? Most 8-week-old Golden Retriever puppies should be eating around half a cup of food three times a day. So, talk to your vet for a specific amount. They need high-quality puppy food. For more about what to feed your pup, check out our article about the Best Puppy Food for Golden Retrievers. Your golden puppy will probably quickly devour any food you place in front of them. It can be a good idea to buy a slow feeder bowl or toys that dispense food to slow them down a bit while also giving them some mental stimulation and making mealtime fun. Just as infants put things in their mouths, puppies do too. They do this to both plays and learn about their world. This can really suck for humans because puppies have sharp little teeth that feel like needles. The good news is that you can do some things to cut back on the biting and learn to deal with it. The first thing right off the bat you should do is to make sure your puppy is getting enough sleep. Secondly, scatter chew toys all over your house. Third, give your puppy a break if they start biting. This is as easy as going on the other side of their gate or putting them in their crate. This lets your pup know that when they start biting, the play stops, and access to you is denied. Many people suggest yelping and making loud noises when your puppy bites. But this is actually pretty counter-productive because it can make the situation worse by scaring the puppy. Other puppies can get more excited by the noise and bite harder. Biting is just something that puppies at this age do. However, remember that getting through this trying time is going to help you establish a lifelong bond with your new family member.

German Shepherds can have three different varieties of coat: double coat, plush coat, and long haired coat. The breed standard is the double coat, which consists of dense, straight, short hair that lies close to the body. The long haired coat is also quite common among German Shepherds that are family pets. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. The most common colouring for a German Shepherd is black and tan; however, the breed can also appear in all black. Typically the coat is predominantly tan with black facial and saddle markings. In rare instances, German Shepherds can have white, blue, or reddish brown coats. These colours are not recognized by the breed standard, but do occur periodically. In fact, the white German Shepherd is actually considered a separate breed in some areas and is called the American White Shepherd. The German Shepherd is part of the working dog classification and has a strong proportioned build. Typically, the German Shepherd is 22 to 26 inches 56 to 66 cm tall and weighs between 50 and 90 pounds 23 and 41 kg. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source It has a narrow and deep chest, and the front legs and shoulders are muscular and sloping. Its body is slightly longer than it is deep, measuring from the shoulders to the rump. Go to source German Shepherd puppies typically weigh pounds kg after the first month and will continue to grow steadily throughout their first year. By six months they will weigh approximately pounds kg. German Shepherds have very distinct pointed ears that are erect. They are long at the base and face forwards, making the shape of a triangle. As puppies, the tips of the ear may flop over slightly, but they will straighten as the dog ages. German Shepherds have a long and bushy tail that hangs down when the dog is resting. When a German Shepherd is alert or in motion, the curve of the tail is accentuated and the tail will be slightly raised. German Shepherds can be fairly aloof and reserved when first meeting new people. However, once the dog has formed a connection with their owner, they are extremely loyal. German Shepherds are usually friendly and loyal to their family, but can be protective if they feel threatened. German Shepherds are high energy dogs and they need lots of daily exercise. If a German Shepherd is left a lone for long periods of time it will likely become bored and destructive. For example, the dog may start barking, chewing things, or digging. Make sure that your German Shepherd receives at least 1 hour of exercise each day. This breed is highly intelligent and trainable. They like to have a job or task to do, and you can train a German Shepherd to do a variety of different jobs. For example, German Shepherds are often used as "working" dogs, helping with search and rescue, drug sniffing and security, as well as providing aide and assistance to the visibly impaired. This is fun and stimulating for the dog. This breed is known to herd the sheep, count them, and keep them safe. This sense of possession make them apt for guarding a family. A pet can guard when he knows what all belongs to him and what does not. This ability helps a German Shepherd to differentiate between an enemy and the family. Protection to this breed comes naturally and that's why they are known as police dogs, too. German Shepherds are fantastic with your own kids and can act strange with the strangers and other kids. If you see a dog that you think might be a German Shepherd and are curious about the breed, approach the owner and ask. It is such a cute dog. I am considering getting one. Veterinarians will be familiar with the breed standard of most dog breeds. They will be able to easily examine the physical characteristics of the dog to help with identifying the breed. A licensed breeder will be able to provide you with paperwork that proves both parents are recognized as German Shepherds by the American Kennel Club. Make sure that you always use a breeder that is licensed by the American Kennel Club. This will also help to ensure that you are purchasing a purebred dog. There are a number of applications available that can help to identify different dog breeds. In order to use the app, simply upload a photo of a dog and the app will identify the breed. Once you receive the DNA test kit in the mail, open the package and carefully read all of the instructions. The instructions will provide you with steps on how to take a DNA swab and then how to return the results to the lab for testing. The kit will likely come with two swabs. They are both to be used on the same dog. Do the same thing with each of the swabs. Place the swabs into the plastic baggies provided. Then place them in the pre-paid return envelope or box. Once sealed, mail the results to the lab for testing. Approximately three weeks after you complete the test, you will receive detailed DNA results. Purebred German shepherds are also likely to follow the following standard measurements by the American Kennel Club. To be more precise, the ideal ratio of the length to the height of a purebred German shepherd is 10 to 8. However, purebred German shepherd puppies may not show such signs yet. This is because they are still far from developing them for their first six months. For example, they may not have upright tails since it straightens out through age. Any price that deviates from that is enough for suspicions. Speaking of a purebred German shepherd price, it might be helpful knowing that there are dogs with different price that resembles German shepherds. However, there are dogs that have the same appearance as well. Here are some of the dogs that are likely to possess similar trait with that of a purebred German shepherd: First up in our list is the Belgian Malinois. This dog breed is the most comparable in terms of appearance with purebred German shepherds. They have similar coats and style. King Shepherds are also similar to German shepherds, with the exception of their size and coat color. They are much bigger and muscular and only have sable as their color variation. However, Bohemian shepherds have undercoat, unlike German shepherds. Another cheaper breed is Northern Inuits. They are much larger than purebred German shepherd puppies, but a bit lighter. Their coat is typically pure white or black, with a face mask. Carpathian shepherds are not as similar to purebred German shepherds as the rest of this list, but they resemble a GSD enough to be used as a ripoff. Just like the Belgian Malinois, they will typically have black markings. There are many breeds that can look identical to the German shepherd pure breed. Testing a Purebred German Shepherd Testing a German shepherd pure breed through technical means is a surefire way to identify a purebred German shepherd. Registration certificates. Despite that, in the case of dogs from shelters, the caretakers genuinely have no documents to provide you. They might not even know where the dog came from in the first place. This leads us to try out other ways of testing purebred German shepherds. Genetic Testing Genetic testing has come a long way since its discovery. Now, there are many ways to check the details about the genes of even a dog. Most companies offering genetic testing have a whole database storing data of all the breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club. It is, therefore, recommended that you talk to your vet about it. They will naturally have more experience with blood testing purebred German shepherds than you are. Wrapping Up Purebred German shepherd is listed as one of the most lovable, and therefore, popular breed in America, and even in the world. Regardless, there are many problems with being unable to know if what you really have are purebred German shepherd puppies. We then tackled other breeds that are likely to be sold as a purebred German shepherd. Finally, you learned how you can test the legitimacy of a dog. At this point, you can easily steer away from the traps of the breeders into ripping you off your money. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Are German Shepherds Dangerous? They have a strong bond with the entire family and are untrustful of strangers. Also, German Shepherds are very protective of their families and their property, so if you are entirely new to this breed, you may need to reach out for added expert advice. Purebred German Shepherds are intelligent Due to their high intelligence, they are preferred as working dogs in police departments, rescue teams, and search crews. If you think your puppy can pick up your training quickly, chances are they may have a lot of German Shepherd DNA in him! Regardless, you will need to keep them disciplined and mentally stimulated. Can They Outsmart You? Purebred German Shepherds are naturally protective and possessive German Shepherds are extremely protective and loyal dogs, especially when it comes to their families and their territory. This trait will quickly manifest itself as protectiveness when a potential enemy is approaching. That said, a purebred German Shepherd will intimidate a potential threat to its owners and their property without questions. Consult experts Another great way to check if your dog is a purebred German Shepherd or not is to ask experts, such as veterinarians or previous owners. A skilled veterinarian can give you plenty of valuable insight into this breed. They can inform you of the physical characteristics of German Shepherds and their most common traits. A breeder can also help answer any questions you may have about your German Shepherd. You will want to get a puppy from an American Kennel Club licensed breeder. A previous German Shepherd owner could grasp what a purebred dog looks and behaves like. However, this method may be unreliable, as many mixed breeds seem to look and behave like a purebred GSD would. Check the registration certificate if you have it If you purchase a purebred German Shepherd from a reputable breeder, you should get a registration certificate. Use dog identification apps Using dog identification apps is an innovative way to help you identify the breed of your dog by scanning a picture of a dog. All you have to do is to submit a picture of your pooch taken from your phone. Then these apps will do their analysis and return a short description of the breed as well as a match percentage of the breed. Of course, these apps may be a little more than a fun video game and are not as accurate as DNA tests. Besides taking a picture, you can also record a video or upload an image from your gallery. Share your results and compare them to the results of the community! Upload pictures of your favorite dog to our Social Feed and share them with other dog lovers! Have a look at the profiles and photos of other users, like and comment on posts from our dog community and filter them by date or popularity! All types of dogs are supported — mutts and purebreds, and everything in between. DogDNA Identify dog breeds by uploading a picture from your camera or photo library. We use advanced computer vision dog breed identifier technology to analyze the pictures and provide results on the possible breeds your dog could be. Conclusion Regardless of the result, your new furry friend deserves all of your love. Bon is a dog lover and a blogger. He loves spending time with dogs more than with humans. You will find him training himself for the next marathon when he is not writing. This is because there are several other dog breeds with similar characteristics, like the Belgian Malinois, the Bohemian Shepherd, and the Dutch Shepherd, among a few others. There are also different types of German Shepherds , such as the working lines and show lines which have slightly different appearances. However, that does not mean identifying a purebred German Shepherd cannot be done. Test the DNA When you are grappling with the question of how to know if your German Shepherd is original, taking a DNA test on your dog is not something you want to do as a first option. Because DNA tests and test kits have a hefty price tag. The most straightforward bet when taking a DNA test on your German Shepherd is to purchase a test kit and follow the instructions on the package. Package the swab with the DNA sample in the provided sealable bag and mail it for testing. If you seek greater accuracy, go for the 2-pack option and use both with your GSD to check the consistency of results. You can identify if your German Shepherd is purebred by assessing your dog for these coat features. The outer coat should be dense, even though a somewhat wavy outer coat is permissible. The hairs at the neck are longer and thicker, while those on the head, fore face, and inside the ears are short. The paws and legs also have short hair, but you may notice slightly longer hair at the rear of the legs, on the hock, and along the pastern. Coat Color The coat colors of the German Shepherd are varied. The black and tan, sable , black and red, bi-color, and solid black variants are among the most common German Shepherd coat colors. The AKC advocates for strong-rich colors and disqualifies blue , livers, white , and faded German Shepherd coat colors even though GSDs with these colors can still be registered. Variations in German Shepherd coat standards should suggest the need to consider more than just the coat type and fur patterns when trying to make out if your German Shepherd is an original. Some of the distinctive physical features of the German Shepherd you should look for include the following characteristics. Other features of a strong-build purebred German Shepherd you should notice include: An even built hindquarter and the forequarter. A noble look with a well-defined feminine or masculine gait for either case. A deep and narrow chest with sloping shoulders and front legs. Pointed Ears The pointy ears of a German Shepherd are among its most popular signature features. The GSD typically carries its ears erect, with the ear ends parallel to each other and vertical to the ground. But the ears of your German Shepherd may not stand erect until the teething period is over. If your GSD is at that teething stage, which ends around weeks 16 and 20, check to see if your dog has erect ears when it hears a sound, barks, or gets excited. Note that floppy ears in adult purebred German Shepherds can be a sign of ill health or the outcome of grooming routines. Also, breed standards usually disqualify a GSD with docked ears. A Long Bushy Tail The German Shepherd has a full and long bushy tail with the last interlocking bone extending to the hock joint. The tail is carried low rather than high and is smoothly set into the rump. A purebred German Shepherd should not carry the tail curled forward as though fearful. The curve can be more pronounced when the dog is excited or moving. You can read about the meaning of German Shepherd tail positions in this article. A long and strong muzzle with a topline parallel to the skull. A black nose. A strong and muscular neck with smooth skin and no loose skin folds. Notice Their Temperament and Behavior Your purebred German Shepherd will present as a confident, fearless, and alert dog. Timidity, nervousness, and anxiety are not part of the intelligent and agile German Shepherd, originally bred as a herding dog. Any characterizing tendency to flee and hide behind the owner or handler should suggest that the dog is not a purebred German Shepherd. While your purebred dog will be friendly and loyal to you, it will show some aloofness towards strangers without, however, being aggressive or showing a lack of confidence. That could leave you wondering how a dog registration certificate can help identify a purebred German Shepherd. That should tell you if both parents of your German Shepherd were of the same breed or not. However, the information given to a dog registry is self-reported by the owner or breeder. The registry does not do background research to confirm the details but instead relies on the honesty of the breeder or owner. Experts with extensive knowledge about the breed are mainly veterinarians. Talk to a German Shepherd Breeder To determine if your German Shepherd is purebred, talk to a reputable breeder with years of experience with the breed. Reputable German Shepherd breeders will give you reliable info about: German Shepherd dog personality and temperament. German Shepherd registration and pedigree papers, especially if you are considering buying your GSD from the breeder. Talk to a German Shepherd Owner Someone who has owned a purebred German Shepherd for years has observed their physical and personality traits and can offer you valuable information about the breed. Go for a purebred German Shepherd owner whose dog you like and looks healthy and well cared for. Fulfilled GSD owners will be glad to tell you about their furry companions and probably show you photos and videos of their growth journey. Videos and photos of another purebred German Shepherd can give you specific details about physical features and temperament traits that you can look out for in your own dog. Original sketch of my German Shepherd Willow Talk to a Veterinarian Veterinarians not only deal with many dog breeds, but they also attend to many dogs of the same breed. As such, they have mastered characteristics proper to the GSD and will give you purebred German Shepherd facts and proofs from their own experience. Suppose you already own the dog that you are trying to identify as purebred. Alternatively, you can explain to the vet features and behaviors you have observed in your dog and have the vet tell you if they are typical of the breed. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. Apart from being guard dogs, German Shepherds are known to be good for families with kids. They are also intelligent, obedient, and loyal to their masters. However, with an increase in backstreet breeding, it has become impossible to find a purebred German Shepherd that retains all the characteristics and features of its ancestors. The most familiar ones are long-haired and double coats. For standard breeds, the coat is often a double coat which is dense, straight, and short hair that is close to the body. Check the physical characteristics Here are some of the features you will examine to determine if the German Shepherd is purebred: Identify the tan and black colouring The first thing that captures your eyes when you see a German shepherd is its black and tan coloring. However, some are purely black. On normal occasions, the tan color covers a larger part of the body and black on the facial and saddle. Well, in rare instances, you can find a German shepherd with white, reddish-brown, and blue coats. This is not the recognized standard color although such coloration exists. The height lies between cm and it weighs around kg. Typically, this dog has muscular and sloppy front legs and shoulders. It also has a narrow and deep chest, making its body longer than its depth when you measure toward the rump from the shoulder. When you buy or adopt a German Shepherd puppy, it will weigh around 3 to 5 kg, and it will grow steadily from thereon. When the puppy is 6 months old , the weight will increase to about 22 to 26 kgs. Structure of the ear The ears of a German shepherd are very distinct; pointed and erect. The ear is long at the base and often faces forward, forming a triangular shape. The tail The tail of a German shepherd is bushy and long. It tends to hang down while it rests and curves slightly upwards as it moves or when the dog is alert. Examine the behavioural characteristics Loyalty You will notice the loyalty of a German shepherd as it grows to know you and your family. German shepherds can be aggressive , reserved, and fairly aloof upon meeting new faces whom they consider strangers. However, once you interact and get used to each other, they become loyal and friendly to their owner. Once left alone for a long time, they will become bored and destructive. This is the reason why they start chewing things, digging, and barking all the time. Therefore, you can spare at least one hour per day for some exercise. Related: How to stop German Shepherd from barking Test if the dog is trainable German Shepherd dogs are highly intelligent, and they can be trained easily. Doing jobs or tasks is their thing and they perform the duty perfectly. A German shepherd can be the eyes of a blind person, help with search and rescue missions, sniff drugs, and help in upholding security. See if the dog is overprotective or has a sense of possession Do you know a German shepherd can herd your sheep? It herds them and ensures each sheep or goat is accounted for. Their sense of possession makes the German Shepherd a perfect family dog since it will always keep your family safe. Inquire about the breed from various sources. Being inquisitive will help you gaher sufficient information about the German Shepherd, and the information you get can help you know if your German Shepherd is purebred. Before purchasing any dog, you should get as much information about the dog as possible. This way, you will be in a position to understand your dog perfectly, and caring for him will be seamless. Certainly, the dog will be accompanied by the owner, and it is good you take your curiosity and approach the person to find more information. You can begin by complimenting the dog and follow by asking if it is a German shepherd. The owner will respond. Talk with a veterinarian. Your veterinarian has more experience and knowledge about dogs. These apps scan photographs of the dog and instantly give a response on which breed it is. While a German Shepherd may have the build, color, and strength of a German Shepherd dog, it may be a crossbreed with other dogs like Malnoise, Pitbull, and Golden Retriever. If you want to know if your German Shepherd is purebred, you should subject them to an evaluation test. One of the easiest and proven methods is to conduct a DNA test to determine its lineage and ancestors. Recent Posts. Conclusion 1. That said there are additional benefits to getting a DNA test for your pup and these tests are out there and readily available. All you need to do is purchase a kit online. Although the kit will likely come with two swabs, each kit is only meant to test a sample from one dog. These kits usually include sealable plastic bags to place the swabs in and a pre-paid return box or envelope. When we think of the typical German Shepherd, we think of tan coloring with black facial and saddle markings. The coat is typically dense and short and lies close to the body. This more typical look is only one of many of the purebred German Shepherd. A purebred German Shepherd can have three different varieties of coats, which are the double coat, the plush coat, and the long-haired coat. The double coat is considered the standard of the German Shepherd coats, although many German Shepherds that are kept as family pets have a long-haired coat. Regardless, German Shepherds shed regularly throughout the year and require regular brushing and grooming. While the typical and often preferred coloring of the German Shepherd is tan and black, look for other variants in coloring. The next most common coloring of the German Shepherd is pure black, along with black and cream, black and red, black and silver, bi-color, blue, gray, liver, sable and white. Other Physical Characteristics There is a multitude of other physical characteristics that immediately makes a purebred German Shepherd stand apart from other dogs. These include: Distinct, pointed ears. This means your German Shepherd is going through the puberty stage, where they are teething as well as growing and developing cartilage in their ears. Along with the distinctly pointed ears comes the distinct German Shepherd head tilt which fans of this breed also tend to adore. A strong, proportioned build. Part of the reason the German Shepherd makes an excellent working dog is due to its strong, tall build. A typical German Shepherd is up to 26 inches tall and weighs somewhere between 77 and 85 pounds. A typical German Shepherd puppy weighs up to 10 pounds in the first month and reaches close to 60 pounds by the time they are six months old. A full, long, bushy tail. This is another cherished physical feature of the German Shepherd. When the German Shepherd is resting, their bushy tail tends to hang low to the ground. Behavioral Characteristics Putting aside their physical features, German Shepherds are largely known for certain behavioral characteristics — both positive and negative. These behavioral characteristics include: A high energy level. German Shepherds need a ton of daily exercise and preferably a backyard to let off some steam in-between walks. A strong sense of loyalty. They can be extremely protective of their families if they feel threatened which means that German Shepherds may not necessarily be the best choice for someone with no experience with dogs. A high level of intelligence. German Shepherds are extremely smart, making them excellent working dogs. You often see German Shepherds doing important jobs like assisting police in drug-sniffing and security and aiding in search and rescue. German Shepherds benefit from training and obedience classes which also help keep your dog stimulated and entertained. A sense of possession. As previously mentioned, German Shepherds are extremely protective and loyal dogs, especially when it comes to their families. If your family is looking for a guard dog, a German Shepherd is definitely an excellent option. Due to their sense of possession, German Shepherds are also great dogs for herding sheep. Your German Shepherd may be fantastic with you and your kids but act standoffish or protective around other adults or children. This is where additional training is necessary to make sure that your German Shepherd is not acting unnecessarily aggressive or territorial. Asking Questions The simplest way to identify a German Shepherd? Ask questions! There are a variety of different sources you can ask about the German Shepherd, including: Talking with a breeder. Find a reputable German Shepherd breeder and ask as many questions as you can about the German Shepherd. Unfortunately, a breeder may not be completely forthcoming about negative information so really dig deep about the breeder before purchasing your German Shepherd puppy. Talking with a German Shepherd owner. Speak with someone that you know has a German Shepherd and ask questions. That said, exercise caution when doing so as the German Shepherd may not be overly accepting of a stranger approaching their owner. Talking with a veterinarian. Veterinarians can provide all kinds of valuable information about German Shepherds. If you already have a dog that you believe to be a German Shepherd but are unsure, ask your veterinarian to give you their opinion on whether they believe the dog to be so. Downloading an app. You are now able to download a dog breed identification app to identify a large variety of dog breeds. Additional Identifying Factors An additional identifying factor is unfortunately the genetic health concerns that come along with German Shepherds. German Shepherds are prone to certain health conditions, some more so than other breeds. These health conditions include degenerative myelopathy and hip and elbow dysplasia. Ask your vet about their experience in regards to German Shepherds and whether or not they think this breed would be a good fit for you. Conclusion German Shepherd or not, there are so many wonderful breeds of dogs out there that have an incredible amount to offer you and your family. Mary Nielsen I grew up in a household that was filled with animals. I believe that my fate as a dog-loving person was sealed in early childhood since my parents owned several dogs of varying sizes and breeds. As a life-long puppy lover, I know a thing or two about dogs and how to go about caring for them in the best way possible. Along with my husband, Dave, I run MySweetPuppy for like-minded dog lovers who want to have a single, clear, and reliable information source about anything and everything related to dogs and their well-being. Color Colors have a significant role in portraying if a dog from German Shepherd is original in its breed or not. The variants found in colors of dogs from German shepherd breed are many, where eight patterns are most common — pure black, pure white, black and tan, etc. Source Though most of the colors are permissible, strong colors have a greater say. Also, lighter colors, off colors, pale and washed are not the ones you are looking for if you want a purebred german shepherd. In comparison, the other colors are said to vary from one country to another. Along with this, the forefoot and hindfoot are proportioned similarly for moving simultaneously in opposite directions. The shoulder blades have a vibrant melange with the upper arm, intersecting at a right angle. Though the limbs are straight, the angles are oval-shaped and not round. According to the source , the pasterns, sloping part of foot found between fetlock and hook, are springy and valiant, and they form a twenty-five degrees angle from vertical. Also, with regards to Hind Quarters, a pure german Shepherd would possess broad and muscular hindquarters where the upper thigh could subsequently meet the lower thigh in ninety degrees. The size of the head also matters and ought to be proportionate to the entire body size having a keen and intelligent expression. The head of a male German Shepherd dog is distinctly masculine, whereas the head is distinctly feminine in the case of a bitch female dog. The head is carried forward so high by the dog in times of great excitement and attention. Finally, the common expression is said to be quite composed as well as intelligent. Ears There are a few considerations to be kept in mind while reviewing the originality of the dog from its ears. The first consideration is regarding the drooping of the ears in puppies of every breed. Many proud German shepherd owners share for other breed puppies; the ears droop may be sideways while for pure German Shepherd, the ears droop straight downwards. As the pup grows to become an adult dog, it can be spotted in an instant because of the shape and sharpness of the ears. The size of the ears will also be proportional to the size of the entire head. READ : Top 10 interactive puzzle toys for german shepherds 5. Eyes The eyes of each dog have many stories to say. This adage applies to the breed of German Shepherd too, and one can judge if a dog is a purebred original one, with its eyes also. They do not protrude but are set slightly oblique. The color of the eyes is also preferred to be as dark in complexion as possible. Teeth The ideal original German Shepherd jaw has forty-two teeth, with the dentition, being twenty-two in the lower jaw, and twenty in the upper jaw. The upper and lower jaws are also strongly developed and have their blend in a scissors-bite. There are preferences in choosing with respect to dentition. Complete dentition is always desired and preferred. In the same way, a dog with an undershot bite cannot be considered as well. Coat Facts show that an ideal dog from a German shepherd breed has a double coat, which is of medium length and can be wiry too. But, most importantly, the double layer of coat needs to be plush, implying that a fluffy coat must be found beneath the outer coat, which in turn gives the fur some volume. However, shorter coats are also accepted from standards. With regards to the outer coat, it has to be as voluminous as possible, roughly textured, and in close association with the body. Feet According to a reliable source , the feet of the original German Shepherd is usually short, round, and possess compact and well-arched toes. The footpads are tough and thick, but not rough or chapped. The footpads are also short, and the nails are dark, small, and strong. Also, the dewclaws might be found in the hind legs but shall be removed-front dewclaws are not removed usually but can be removed. The rear dewclaws must be removed, if any is found, in a few days after the birth. Gait As per official AKC standard , German Shepherd dogs are basically trotting dogs that have a greater outreach and an effortless stride where the maximum possible ground is covered with minimal effort. Thus, the gait of a dog, for it to be original German Shepherd, must be smooth, effortless, and in a rhythmic pattern which is accomplished with the hindquarters offering a mighty forward leap, that marginally lifts the dog and takes the body forward. Tail The tail of an original German shepherd is fluffy, set smoothly into the hindquarters with the last vertebra extending till the hock joint. Also, if the dog rests, the tail must hang in a smooth slight curve like a sword. Meanwhile, if the dog is in motion, the tail lifts and raises with a highly pronounced curve. Also, it is a must to consider the fact that the tail must never curl forward beyond the demarcated vertical line. The amount of excitement, loyalty, assistance, commitment, intelligence offered by it is simply awe-inspiring. But, one must carefully analyze their physical features like gait, eyes, ears, head, foot, etc. Now that you have known about all the relevant information, we are sure you will be able to get the purebred dog easily. You may also check out different varieties of original german shepherd dogs before buying the right one! Buy a German Shepherd puppy that should be at least 35 days-old or 40 days-old. Show Line German Shepherds have an angulated back that slopes from high to low as you go from shoulders to rear end, but the Working Line German Shepherds backs are less sloped as compared to Show Line German Shepherds. Color Though German Shepherds are found in many colors, but the most common colors are: Black and tan. Pure black. Pure white. As the puppy will grow, the tan or orangish color will grow upward from claws to body. Some White Line German Shepherds have wolfish gray color as well. As German Shepherd puppy grows its ears droop straight whereas ears of other breeds droop sideways. The distance or gap between the ears of Germans Shepherd is less as compared to other breeds. White Spots When it comes to purity check, the white spots on German Shepherds have always been a debate. To clear your doubt you can carry a DNA test for the identification of breed and ancestry. German Shepherd puppies do have white spots on paws, legs and upper chest. Always remember that these white spots on paws, legs and upper chest will not make German Shepherd impure, it is normal. Some white spots perish naturally as the puppy grows. After 30 years a German Shepherd won this title again, and interestingly this dog has a white spot on his chest. Normally it takes 2 to 3 weeks for your sample to reach the lab. Once it reaches the lab you get customized comprehensive online report. These Dog DNA tests help you to better understand your dog and provide the best possible care, food, training etc, that it deserves. We hope these guidelines will help you to identify the purity of the German Shepherd puppy. Share your feedback in the comments section below. Also Read.

If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More Are you planning to adopt a Labradoodle in Oregon? And we can certainly understand why. How To Choose A Labradoodle Breeder Responsibly In Oregon When looking for Labradoodles, the Oregon breeders in our guide have proven to follow ethical practices while providing the dogs the highest of care. So, what should you look for when choosing an ethical Labradoodle breeder in Oregon? This greatly reduces the chance of puppies inheriting any life altering conditions. For more on issues that can plague Labradoodles take a look at our article Doodle Health Issues and Diseases. Additionally, some breeders are also recommended by Gooddog. More specifically, in Azalea, Southern Oregon, which is about 10 miles northeast of Glendale. All of their dogs live with them in their own home or with carefully selected guardian families. You can be sure that they really are one of the best Labradoodle breeders in Oregon, as all of their puppies come from loving family environments. In addition to that, Autumn Harvest Dood Ranch already starts with introduction to potty training, crate training, and obedience training. Puppies will also have numerous car rides, a trip to the vet, groomings, and other experiences that will make your transition much easier. Related Content. We Produce Australian Labradoodle Puppies … and not just any puppy, but one of the best! Our focus at Mountain View Doodles is breeding multi-generation Australian Labradoodle puppies that have a blocky body type, a wonderful coat of silky soft, non-shedding fleece, as well as a fun-loving, sweet temperament. Since our puppies have gone all over Oregon, to every state in the US, and some internationally as well! Apply Today We are always accepting applications for Australian Labradoodle puppies to reserve! Please visit our Available Puppies page to see our expected litters for the coming months. Sometimes our litters fill up fast so we encourage you to apply and get on a reservation list to ensure your spot. We provide all three sizes of Australian Labradoodles. We take great pride in the puppies we produce as well. Our process works with each family individually to find exactly what they are looking for not only from a aesthetics standpoint, but also a personality point of view. Our goal is to find a fabulous fit for each family that will thrive in their home. Available Puppies. Why get a labradoodle puppy? Labradoodles are smart, loving, child-friendly dogs. They have light to non-shedding, allergy-friendly coats, and they do not have the dog smell associated with other breeds. They are highly trainable, fun loving, family companions. Labradoodles also come in miniature, medium, and standard sizes. We breed all sizes of labradoodles, but concentrate mostly on mini labradoodles and medium labradoodles with an ocassional litter of large standard size labradoodles. We have found the miniature and medium sized labradoodles to be the perfect size for families on the go. They are wonderful companions and are just the right size for a snuggle on the couch, sleeping at the foot of the bed, or riding in the car running errands. On a personal note, our family fell in love with labradoodles when we saw what a patient, loyal companion a labradoodle was for our 6 year old son with autism. By breeding labradoodles, it is my hope to provide this type of loving companion for other families. Why choose Pacific Rim Labradoodles? Located in Southern Oregon, Pacific Rim Labradoodles takes pride in being a very reputable and ethical breeder of Australian and American multigeneration labradoodles. We are a family that has fallen in love with the labradoodle breed. We began breeding labradoodles in so that others could experience the joy of labradoodle ownership. Every labradoodle puppy is born and raised at our home. We are a small Oregon breeder that believes in quality before quantity. Our goal is to breed wonderful labradoodle puppies for companion and family dogs while continuing to advance the labradoodle as a breed. All of our breeding stock undergoes genetic testing for soundness of hips and eyes. The temperaments of our breeding dogs is also very important to us. We breed only labradoodles with phenomenal temperaments since the disposition of the parents is the best indicator of the disposition of your puppy. We back up all of our labradoodle puppies with a 2 year genetic health warranty and our continued support for the lifetime of your dog. The climate and low population of our gorgeous Oregon coast means that our dogs and puppies have 36 acres of trails and forest land to play on. Our labradoodles are kenneled only for safety issues when necessary. Our goal is to provide you with a happy, healthy labradoodle puppy and an enjoyable puppy purchasing experience. We look forward to working with you to find you the perfect new addition for your family.

Their insight on Poodles is an excellent resource for first-time owners to turn to if they have any questions about their puppy before and after taking them home. What is the correct Poodle teething age? How many teeth do they lose? Health Prioritization Responsible Poodle breeders prioritize the health of their breedable adult dogs and their puppies to ensure owners that the pup they take home will live a long and happy life. Health checks for Poodle diseases can vary from breeder to breeder, but many perform these tests via the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. Several factors, such as coat color, health coverage, and pedigree, can determine the amount a puppy costs. Transparent Communication The best breeders always reach out to interested buyers if they approve their application and give updates about their puppies before sending them to their new homes. Poodle Puppies in Indiana Poodles are a popular companion breed for many people throughout Indiana and the United States. Their lively personalities and trainability make them ideal dogs for families, showmanship, hunting, and therapy. Poodles come in three size varieties: Miniature, Standard, and Toy. In addition, several Poodle breeders produce litters with vibrant colors, from black, white, or apricot to multicolored patterns like merle. Their low-shedding coat makes them a popular option for pet lovers with allergies, but they require high-maintenance grooming to prevent matting. Consider brushing them daily and taking them to a groomer every six weeks. Despite their reputation as show dogs or lapdogs, Poodles are a fairly active breed that needs plenty of daily physical activity. Most owners like walking their Poodles for an hour, while others split these exercise sessions into several shorter intervals throughout the day. Similar Posts. Questions about Poodle puppies for sale in Indiana? We have answers. Give me an overview of Poodle puppies for sale in Indiana. Poodles come at different prices. Different things to consider are their height, size and weight, color as well as experience of the professional breeder. You will be able to afford one! Can breeders arrange travel for Indiana Poodles out of state? Yes they do! The breeders, companies and businesses in our network know that perfect families do not always live close by, and sometimes far-distance travel arrangements have to be made. You may even be able to pick up your pup from an airplane close by or even around the corner - it all depends! How do you screen miniature Poodle breeders in Indiana? We really care about puppies and their well being, so it is of the utmost importance that anyone who wants to be connected to us is screened under strict rules - and then they have to take our Breeder Pledge. The health of your puppy-to-be, its wellbeing, the way it is taken care of, the place it is brought up in - all of this matters to us. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other miniature Poodle breeders Indiana? The internet is available to absolutely everybody - and that includes scrupulous breeders who are out there just wanting to cash in by selling puppies. We care deeply for dogs and puppies and we love connecting good and honest breeders with families who just want to open their homes to a new and wonderful puppy. What is a puppy mill like for miniature Poodle Indiana? A puppy mill is an awful place that is unfortunately legal. Dogs are treated terribly and all their owners want from them are their puppies which they make money out of. Are there any miniature Poodle puppies Indiana for sale now? We just need to know a little bit about yourself and exactly what you are looking for. Then begin your search and find the Poodle of your dreams. There are breeders, companies and businesses out there that are really excited to place their beautiful puppies in your home. What kind of dogs are mini Poodle puppies Indiana? Poodles are actually part of a group of formal dog breeds. The Poodle is available in Toy size, Miniature size and large, regal, Standard size. They are highly intelligent and their origins belong to both Germany and France. How do I know I can trust you with miniature Poodle puppies in Indiana? It is hard to monitor all the puppy scams that happen daily on the internet so we make sure that we have a secure Breeder Pledge and a strict screening process, in order to create the best of relationships between our customers and our breeders, companies and businesses. Our reviews reveal all! Exercise Grooming Looking at the life of a miniature poodle today, the jewelry, the bright-colored coats and the luxury they live in, one may be shocked that these pooches used to accompany hunters many years ago. They were developed in Germany but developed into their own distinct breed in the country of France. They were developed especially for waterfowl hunting. They are believed to be a hybrid of different water dogs from Europe. They are believed to be a result of crosses between Spanish, Russian, Hungarian, Portuguese, French and German water dogs. There are also different theories that link its ancestry to different parts of the world like Africa and Asia. One thing however clear is that the Miniature Poodle is a very old breed. There are illustrations of this breed on Egyptian and Roman artifacts and tombs. Many believe Miniature Poodles came hundreds of years later after the Standard Poodles. They are intelligent, loyal, loving and mischievous. Poodle enthusiasts describe them as having an air of distinction. Miniature Poodles have a daffy streak and love to play. They can however often get leery with strangers. They are shy and if not socialized with new people and animals at an early age, will grow up a little laid back. The Miniature Poodle is very protective of his family and is quick to bark whenever strangers approach your home. They are highly trainable and have high energy. Miniature Poodles require an environment of care and discipline. They can be raised in apartment homes because of their small stature. Early socialization is critical to their development. Without this, they will get scared easily and be aggressive at strangers. Take your Miniature Poodle for walks of about an hour. Play games of fetch with them, they love tasks that challenge them mentally. They were working dogs historically, so it is no wonder that they want something to occupy their bodies and minds. The Miniature Poodle is a safe choice for people with allergies. They are a non-shedding breed and they have been found to give allergic people no reaction at all. Their coat comes in several colors. Their colors include blue, black, white, gray, silver, brown, cream, etc. They are high maintenance dogs. Their beautiful coat can be trimmed, clipped, curled and generally manipulated into different lovely shapes. They require grooming every three to six weeks to keep their coat in good condition. They need to be bathed every three to six weeks. Poodles have weepy eyes and you will need to wipe the hair under their eyes often to get rid of this stain. Make sure you check their ear often to spot any developing infection for quick treatment. Our Miniature Poodle puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. No, they are not. Miniature Poodles are smaller than standard poodles but are bigger than Toy poodles. Do Miniature Poodles shed? You do not have to worry about shedding with Miniature Poodles as they do not shed at all. Are Miniature Poodles a hypoallergenic breed? They are highly hypoallergenic. Studies show they are the easiest to live with for people with allergies. When should your Miniature Poodle be spayed? Vets recommend that they should be spayed between the ages of four to nine months. Are Miniature Poodles good with kids? Miniature Poodles are great with kids if trained to socialize with them at an early age. Their looks give them the advantage of being treated nicely by kids which creates a good relationship between them and kids. Are Miniature Poodle easy to train? Yes, they are one of the easiest breeds to train. What are Miniature Poodles average life expectancy? Miniature Poodles live for as long as 15 years. Can Miniature Poodles become overweight? Like any other dog breed, if overfed, Miniature Poodles will become overweight if overfed and encouraged to lounge around for hours. This will cause them to joint problems. How big are Miniature Poodles? Miniature Poodles stand between 11 to 15 inches tall and weigh 15 lbs. Are Miniature Poodles particularly liable for any disease? Miniature Poodles are generally healthy. Are you interested in purchasing a Miniature Poodle? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. About the Mini Poodle breed. The Standard Poodle was used for hunting and retrieving waterfowl, while the Mini Poodle was bred as a companion dog. The American Kennel Club recognized both varieties of Poodles in .Bred first in Germany as a water retrieval dog, the miniature poodle's size was later reduced to make it more suitable as a household companion. Sometimes called the "toy" poodle, the miniaturized version of this popular breed is 10 inches 25 cm or less at the shoulder and typically weighs 6 to 9 pounds 2. The Mini Poodle is a versatile breed that can be trained for a variety of tasks. They are intelligent and easily trainable, making them ideal candidates for obedience and agility trials. They are also popular therapy dogs and service dogs. The miniature poodle stands proudly among top canine performers in obedience and agility trials, a dog of great beauty, elegance, and intelligence. Mini Poodles come in a wide variety of colors, including black, white, brown, apricot, cream, and silver. They typically weigh between 15 and 17 pounds and stand 10 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder. The Mini Poodle is an excellent choice if you are looking for a small dog with a big personality. Personality Mini Poodles are intelligent, active dogs that thrive on human companionship. They are outgoing and friendly, making them great family pets. They are also very trainable and excel in obedience and agility trials. They like to play and need plenty of exercises, so a daily walk or run is necessary. Mini Poodles are also known for their hypoallergenic coat, which doesn't shed much and is ideal for people with allergies. Most of them usually have a coat that is either curly or wavy and that is what makes them stand out. Mini poodles love to play and have a strong desire to please their owners, making them one of the best breeds for obedience training. They are also quick learners and excel in agility trials. When you teach them something new, they are sure to remember it. Mini Poodles are outgoing, friendly dogs that make great family pets. They are intelligent and trainable but also need plenty of exercise and stimulation to stay happy and healthy. You will love the companionship of a Mini Poodle, and they will quickly become a cherished member of your family. They will add joy and laughter to your life, and you will create lasting memories together. Caring and Living With a Mini Poodle While Mini Poodles are generally healthy dogs, they can be prone to certain health conditions, such as hip dysplasia, von Willebrand disease, and allergies. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about the best way to keep your Mini Poodle healthy and happy. Mini Poodles require regular grooming to maintain their distinctively curly coats. They should be brushed and combed several times a week to prevent mats and tangles. They also need to be trimmed or clipped every few months. Mini Poodles are active dogs that need plenty of exercise. A regular walk or run is required, and they also enjoy playing games and going on adventures. Regarding their living situation, Mini Poodles can do well in either an apartment or a house with a yard. They are relatively quiet dogs and don't need a lot of space to run around. When it comes to training, Mini Poodles are quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement. They excel in obedience and agility trials and make great therapy dogs. Some activities you can do with your Mini Poodle include playing fetch, going on walks or runs, and teaching them new tricks. It is important to socialize your Mini Poodle from an early age, so they are comfortable around other people and animals. Attend puppy classes, introduce them to new situations and people often, and take them on trips to different places. If you live in a hot climate, keep your Mini Poodle cool and prevent it from getting overheated. They are also susceptible to cold weather and need a warm coat or sweater in colder climates. Mini Poodles are wonderful companions that will bring joy and laughter into your life. With proper care and training, they will be a loyal friend for many years to come. Living with a mini poodle means having a furry friend by your side through all of life's ups and downs. They will be there to listen when you need to vent and to celebrate your victories with you. So if you are looking for a loving, intelligent, and active dog, the Mini Poodle is the perfect choice for you.

Merle Pure White A lot of people are arguing that the purely white German Shepherd is a crossbreed while others are labeling them as Albinos and some are even saying white GSDs can be healthy purebreds. Apart from whether or not purely white GSDs exist as crossbreeds and possibly as purebreds, Albinism is definitely a possibility. Solid Gray Unlike sable or the black and silver GSD, the solid gray German Shepherd does not exist in the show or even the working line world. In the show ring, solid gray is considered to be a serious fault. Many people make the mistake to refer to their sable or silver GSD as gray though, so be aware of that. Liver Liver-colored dogs are often seen with a pink nose. This brownish coat color is moving somewhere along the lines of the tan, red, and cream shades. Solid red As the word suggests, this coat type is not black and red but a fully red German Shepherd instead. Isabella types can be very light and might just be a ploy to disguise a white or even albinistic dog. These colors are extremely unusual among German Shepherds and not commonly seen and not desirable either in most cases. Spotted Black and White Another major pet website that features what seems to be a different breed under this color type. There is no spotted black and white German Shepherd in the sense that this color type implies. Australian Kelpies do have this beautiful coat color though. Black and white GSDs, some mixed with brown, as well as sable patterns with the resemblance to a Panda. Merle The merle gene does not exist among German Shepherd lines in a natural form. German Shepherd Coat Types All these colors come in various coat types. Depending on your climate, you might opt for the shorter or longer version. A double coat is typical and consists of a dense outer coat and a softer undercoat. While the breed is generally easy to maintain, weekly brushing is required. Shedding season can be a disaster for some dog owners, especially those with long-haired German Shepherds. A proper diet, exercise, etc. Let me know what color your German Shepherd has or what you think is the most beautiful color on GSDs in the comments. 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. Color breeders often overlook the important health-related aspects of breeding, which can lead to unhealthy pups that achieve color preferences. Avoid purchasing these pups from pet stores as these animals always come from irresponsible breeders and puppy mills, with the exception of a handful of states that require pet store pups to be from rescues. You can also consider adopting a blonde German Shepherd. If you get a blonde puppy, you may end up with a dog that is tan or brown later in life. This means that blonde coats can occur in most breeding programs, even responsible and respectable programs. Part of this is due to the lack of understanding pertaining to which genes are directly responsible for the coat color. The other part of this is that many people think that blonde German Shepherds are mixed breeds, so many responsible breeders avoid breeding light-colored dogs in their programs. Image Credit: JB-Photography. They Cost a Pretty Penny Although undesirable coat colors often cost less, blondes may cost more than desirable coat colors due to their rarity. Albino is distinctly different from other colors, and they are all distinctly different from the blonde coat color. Blonde German Shepherds do have melanin, so they are likely to have brown, black, or tan eyes, and they will have darker colors on the nose and paws, usually from tan to black. The reason color breeding is a problem is because it overlooks health conditions present in the parents or their genes for the sake of breeding out a specific color. Blonde German Shepherds should have the same temperament as other coat colors, making them loyal, intelligent, and highly trainable. Related Reads:. Blue and liver are considered among the rare GSD colors, but even less common are blonde German Shepherds. What is a Blonde German Shepherd? Instead, the color of their coats is closer to that of a Golden Retriever or a Yellow Labrador. These are phaeomelanin and eumelanin. By default, eumelanin produces the color black while phaeomelanin produces the color red. Genes modify these pigments to produce a wide variety of coat colors. For example, gene dilution in the eumelanin pigment can produce liver or blue german shepherds. On the other hand, phaeomelanin can produce red in different shades. Genes can also influence it to produce orange, gold, and yellow coats. Some speculate that blonde GSDs might come from white parents. However, white coloring in canines is caused by the absence of pigment. So, genetically, white coats cannot become blonde. A study published by the Journal of Heredity in could be a clue to this incredibly unusual color. According to the research, the genotype ee at the MC1R gene produces the cream color in German Shepherds. How Rare is the Blonde German Shepherd? Blonde German Shepherds are remarkably rare because it takes a very unusual genetic combination to produce such offspring. Additionally, it is not among the coat colors that are considered desirable in show dogs. So, professional breeders are not motivated to produce them. Breeders also fear that blonde GSDs might bring up doubts about their pedigrees not being purebred. Are Blonde German Shepherds Purebred? When a blonde GSD puppy is the product of two purebred parents, the puppy is undeniably purebred. The color of its coat might be unusual, but it is only caused by a unique genetic combination and not because it is a crossbreed. Nevertheless, blonde-coated German Shepherds can also be mixed-breed dogs. They retain the general appearance of the German Shepherd parent but the coloring of the other breed. This is the reason why there can be speculation about whether Blonde GSDs are purebred in some instances. Apart from their color, these dogs are exactly what you would expect from a typical German Shepherd. As long as they are purebred, blonde German Shepherds will have the same build and general appearance as their GSD parents. They will also have the same grooming requirements. Additionally, you can expect their personality, temperament, and intelligence level to be comparable to any other dog of the same breed. Owning one means you need to be ready to offer strong leadership and take the time to socialize, train, and mentally stimulate your dog. The closest color it recognizes is white, but even that is considered a serious fault. So, blonde German Shepherds would not be allowed to enter conformation events. Because they are such athletic dogs, they are expected to perform well in canine sports such as Agility , Flyball , and Dock Diving. How Much is a Blonde German Shepherd? Because they are so rare, there is no documented average pricing for blonde-coated German Shepherd puppies. No, blonde and albino German Shepherds are vastly different from one another. Blondeness is a dilution in the red coloring. On the other hand, albinism is caused by the absence of the pigment eumelanin. An albino dog will not just have a completely white coat but also a pink nose and eye rims. Eye color is also affected, where it turns out to be light blue or, rarely, red. Final Thoughts Owning a blonde German Shepherd will definitely be a unique experience because they are incredibly rare. If you are not quite sure that the blonde GSD is your best option, you might also want to check out liver-colored , black , panda , or blue German Shepherds. Black and Tan This is the color most of us think of when we picture a German Shepherd dog. With a rich tan undercarriage and a black face and back, this color of GSD has been around since the very first was officially registered back in Germany at the end of the 19th century. Although Horand von Grafrath was a little darker than the modern black and tan GSD, the ancestry is evident. With their luxurious white coats, these pale dogs look more like Golden Retrievers with erect ears. Despite their popularity, like the white German Shepherd, the blue has been a cause of controversion in the Shepherd world because recessive dilution gene comes with inbreeding practices and health issues. Blue German Shepherds may appear gray or even silver and are sometimes mistaken for a Blue Belgian Malinois. Isabella This unusual coat color variation is another washout as far the AKC is concerned, which is a shame given how striking it is. It originates from genetically combining liver and blue dilution genes. Like the liver and blue German Shepherd dogs, Isabella GSDs often have unusual eye coloring and different colored noses. Liver German Shepherds will usually have a brown nose. Blue German Shepherds have a blue nose. There is no evidence that the Isabella coloration makes the dog more susceptible to health issues. However, Isabella is a recessive trait. Selecting for recessive traits always limits the gene pool and makes dogs more susceptible to genetic conditions. Grey Not to be confused with the silver, black, or blue German Shepherds, the gray variety look more wolf-like with their dark coats. Some breeders specialize in producing dogs of this unusual color. Silver Similar to the gray German Shepherd, silver is nevertheless recognized as a distinct color. Often grouped together, however, the gray and silver colors are produced by the same genes. Finding a breeder that specializes in silver German Shepherds is a lot easier than finding one that focuses on the grey, so this might be your best bet if you want a more exotic-looking companion. Silver is an uncommon color for GSDs, possibly because it is a recessive gene. Similar to the dilution gene, this gene influences black pigment. While you also get silver sable German Shepherds, the patterned coats mean they are categorized as sable rather than silver. However, silver German Shepherds are often seen in military work or the police force. The red color is the result of the color gene pheomelanin. It can have any shade of red, ranging from strawberry blonde to a deep mahogany red. Alongside black and tan, the black and red combination is preferred over others by German Shepherd breeders. As black and red are both produced by dominant genes, this color combination is easier to breed for, and many breeders focus on producing purebred dogs with deep red coloring. Sable A classic color for the German Shepherd, a sable comes in a variety of colors but each hair sports a black tip. Sable GSDs can be black, gray, red, silver, or tan and are also known as agouti. Agouti is a type of coloring also present in other dogs, like the Agouti Husky. In this coloring each hair has several bands of brown and black, leading to a typical wolf-like coloration. Some founding members of the German Shepherd breed believed this should be the only color present in German Shepherds. Black sables are born as all-black pups and tri-colored sables are born as black and tan puppies. As the puppy ages, their coloring changes. Some GSDs may take as long as three years to develop their final sable coloration. As every sable GSD is different, with the color and pattern both varying, it makes for an eye-catching and unique dog. Sable is a dominant color that is easy to breed for. If you breed a Sable German Shepherd to any other color, you will likely get sable puppies. Black and Silver Much like the black and tan GSD, a black and silver German Shepherd usually has a silver saddle across its back, although the pattern and hue both vary from dog to dog. Like the silver GSD, the black and silver coloration occurs only when the recessive intensity suppression gene is present. This color is not common in the AKC show ring and can mostly be found in working dog lines. Because these dogs are not visible in the dark, it is highly advisable to only walk them on a light-up dog collar in the evenings and at night. Bicolor Bicolor German Shepherds appear almost completely black and, to fit the breed standard, must have black heads, back, legs and tail. Even if their paws are brown, the heels need to be black by the color standard definition. However, the AKC accepts bicolor as a recessive color in the breed. Though technically allowed in the show ring, these dogs are mostly found in working lines. Black and Cream The last official color on our list, the black and cream GSD remains true to its origins as a lighter version of the common red and tan coloring. There is some controversy surrounding the black and cream variation. Most AKC breeders do not want them to participate in the show ring. They strive to breed darker dogs that do not show the light cream coloring. The color does little to change their character, however, and black and cream GSDs excel obedience, nosework, rally and agility and are as loyal and brave as their black and tan cousins. Her DNA proved them wrong, although the Panda coloration remains unrecognized by some kennel clubs and breeders. The Panda GDS is created by a rare genetic mutation. The genes responsible for an all-white body and the patchy white are two different ones. This does not stop them from being popular however! There is a large demand for Panda-colored German Shepherds. Unfortunately, this inflates the price and leads breeders to focus on the color mutation rather than genetic health, so be sure to only source a puppy from a reputable breeder. Albino An albino German Shepherd is incredibly rare. An albino of any species or breed lacks any pigmentation, including of the skin, hair, and eyes as well as the blood vessels, resulting in a pinkish tinge. You can distinguish an albino German Shepherd from a white one by checking his eyes and nose. A White GDS will have some pigmentation resulting in brown eyes, whereas albinos always have red or pink eyes. An Albino GSD, should one exist, may experience other health problems associated with the condition. They may, for example, be photosensitive, requiring protection from direct sunlight. What is the Rarest Color of the German Shepherd? The rarest color of German Shepherd is the isabella due to the recessive combination of liver and blue. You will have to search for a long time to get such a puppy — and his price will likely be high as well! What is the Best Color for a German Shepherd? The best color for a German Shepherd in the show ring is black and tan, followed by sable. If you are not planning on showing your dog through the AKC, you can pick any color you like. This is not based on any actual working abilities though and more of a myth that has been passed on through generations. What is the Original Color of a German Shepherd? As German Shepherd dogs were bred as working dogs, the original breeders focused on temperature rather than appearance. The original color of working German Shepherds was sable. The most traditional color in the show ring is black and tan. While you should pick the coloring you like the most, make sure to not just choose your dog based on his looks. German Shepherds are prone to developing back and hip issues. Before buying a puppy for his color, make sure that his breeder selects for health first and color second! Otherwise you might end up with a puppy with great color but poor health … which is never a good thing. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.