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This is a higher price as far as puppies are concerned, but the Spanador is becoming increasingly popular, and these prices will probably continue to rise. They Love Water Spanadors love everything and anything about water. It is not uncommon to see your Spanador attempt to swim in their water bowl. If you happen to have a pool or a beach that your Spanador can swim in, they will be thrilled. In addition to enjoying swimming, they will also burn off some of that endless energy. These dogs want to be with you at all times. Many Spanador owners have learned to look down before taking a step. Chances are your Spanador will be sitting at your feet. Although this dog is a bit smaller than a purebred Labrador, it can still reach up to 50 pounds. The Spanador will fully believe they are a lap dog regardless of their size. They Serve as Watchdogs Although the Spanador is not a very large dog, you will find that they are protective. If you want a dog that will keep a close eye on your children and your property, the Spanador is an excellent choice. When it comes to both character and intelligence, these dogs will sit at the top of any chart. The Spanador is a dog that has a lot of energy. If you are a person that wants a docile animal to sit at your feet all day, the Spanador may not be the best choice. Although they will eventually settle and love a great cuddle, they need their play first. The great thing about the Spanador is that even with the amount of energy they have, they can be taught how to control that energy and behave in a way that makes them excellent indoor pets. They are people pleasers and want you to be happy. This is a loyal dog that thinks of itself as another member of the family. The Spanador is a brilliant dog. Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Labrador are smart animals. None of that intelligence was lost when this breed was developed. Keep reading to find out more about how their intelligence affects training and family life. Are These Dogs Good for Families? A family is a perfect setup for a Spanador. These dogs are going to be continually seeking love and attention, and a family will fill that need for them. In addition to the need for love, the Spanador will want people to play. If you have kids that can learn to throw a ball or teach the dog some extra tricks, the Spanador will be in its glory. Of course, all dogs have their personalities, and you will always need to use caution with children around animals. However, the Spanador is a happy dog. You will see as they walk, run, and play that their head is up, and they are looking for smiles, friendly hellos, and a belly rub from anyone who may offer. Since the Spanador is so loyal to the family, they will likely try and keep an eye on their companions as well. If a stranger comes to the door, they are very likely to bark and alert the family members to a potential problem. Remember when your dog barks it is not to be loud and annoying, they want to help you. This is not an aggressive breed, they will not try and start a problem. You should, however, always keep your Spanador on a leash. Depending on the personality of the other dog, it could be a problem for your Spanador. Spanadors love to play, and although they are medium-size dogs, you may want to watch them around tiny dogs. They may not understand that the smaller size dog cannot play and rough house in the same way. Luckily the Spanador is not a high-maintenance dog. However, this dog will shed, and it will need your attention. We will give you all the information you should consider before purchasing your Spanador puppy. They love food so much that you will have to keep an eye on your Spanador and the amount of food they consume. If you put food out in a bowl, they will consume it at a very fast speed. This fast eating can lead to gastrointestinal issues. If your dog tends to eat quickly like this, you can give your Spanador a little bit at a time or get a bowl that helps release the food more slowly. You will have to watch that there are not too many people in the family giving your Spanador treats. With how much these dogs love the food, they may beg or look for ways to get food from you. Since the Spanador is so sweet and loving, it is hard not to give in to those puppy dog eyes. We reviewed the best low-calorie dog treats — see our top picks here! Your dog is going to need a lot of exercise. If you live in an apartment with no outside space for a dog to run, the Spanador may not thrive. Having a yard for the Spanador to run and play is very important. You will also need to take your dog on walks so that they get the correct amount of exercise every day. If you like to walk or run with your dog, the Spanador is quite capable of keeping up with you. Since they are so easy to train see next heading , you will easily be able to leash-train them. If both your kids and your dog need exercise, that would be even better. Letting your Spanador run in the yard and play with the kids is a great way to help them manage their high levels of energy. If you can help them burn off some of this steam early in the day, by the time evening comes around, they will be ready to snuggle and enjoy your company. Lastly, it is important to get your Spanador some swim time if you can. Spanadors love to swim. They enjoy spending time in the water with the ones they love, so if you can find a way to get your Spanador to the beach, the pool, or the lake—go for it! Although dog training will take time and patience, regardless of the breed, you will have very little trouble with the Spanador. These dogs want to make you happy. If sitting seems to make you happy, or when they come that makes you happy, your Spanador will want to repeat that behavior. Since they are dogs that want to please, you should use positive reinforcement for them. This is a dog that picks up on human behaviors and feelings. Even by changing the pitch of your voice, your dog will know that you are pleased with their response. With a high level of intelligence and the desire to ensure that you are their best friend, the Spanador is an enjoyable dog to train. You can start training a Spanador from the time they are a young puppy. Starting at this age and exposing them to other animals for socialization will make your life easier as they age. Keep in mind that the Spanador will have lots of energy for many years. You will not be able to control the energy your dog has. You will have to help them exercise and then help them learn to behave even with high energy levels. The Spanador is going to shed, and you will be vacuuming a lot. The amount your dog sheds will change depending on the season, but there will always be a good amount. One way to avoid having the house destroyed by hair is to brush your dog at least weekly. The brushing will remove much of the loose hair and help save your carpets just a little bit. Since this is a mixed breed between two dogs that have varying hair lengths, the amount of hair your Spanador has can vary. Sometimes a Spanador will have longer hair around the ears just like a Cocker Spaniel. If that is the case, you can trim that hair lightly just to keep things neat. If your dog does have long hair spots, make sure that they are brushed often to avoid knots. Spanadors do not need frequent baths. Once a month or every other month is more than fine. Indeed, if they get into a mess, they should be bathed more often. Make sure that you use a dog shampoo. Using any shampoo for the dog could result in their skin drying out. You will mostly need to watch out for the weight gain. As we mentioned earlier, this breed of dog loves its food. Minor Conditions. The first generation Cocker Spaniel Lab mixed breed is also affectionately referred to as the Spanador, Cockador, or Cockerdor In this article, we first discuss some general concerns about first generation cross breeds before diving into some of the specifics about Cocker Spaniel Labs. There is a lot of controversy surrounding designer dogs, with strong supporters both for and against them. Looking for a unique dog? One thing to note about designer dogs is that it is more difficult to predict the traits of offspring compared to purebreds. A common belief is that designer dogs are healthier than purebreds. Is this really the case? Are Designer Dogs Healthier? The health and welfare of your puppy are going to be your foremost concern, whether your dog is a pure breed, designer dog, or mutt. However, research has successfully demonstrated that inbreeding how you get purebreds results in a smaller genetic pool. When you shrink the gene pool, you increase the likelihood of passing on genetic traits that may cause health problems. And since some purebreds are not as common or popular as others, they will have a smaller gene pool and may be more likely to have health problems. However, when comparing an individual purebred puppy to a mixed breed puppy, either dog could end up being the healthier one. So what are some common traits of the first generation Cocker Spaniel Labrador mix and what should you know? Both dogs are extremely popular in the US. The Cocker Spaniel and the Labrador are energetic, highly active dogs that tend to be friendly and relatively easy to train. As sporting dogs, they are also known for excellent instincts in the woods and in water. However their roles were historically a little different. Working Labradors The Labrador Retriever has been bred to pick up game and bring it back to their owner. This involves working co-operatively, following hand, whistle and verbal cues. They are traditionally worked in a variety of terrains and are reliable working partners, with a real love of, well, just about everyone! Although he has some retrieving uses out in the field, his main job is to flush game. He does this by diving fearlessly into the bracken, thorns and gorse to find rabbits, birds and a variety of other wildlife. He has also needed to work co-operatively, changing direction on cue and fetching when required. But to do this hunting, an increased enthusiasm of finding prey has been bred into these little dogs. This can make it tricky for some novice owners, who find they are ignored entirely on walks in favor of the wildlife. Cocker Spaniel Lab Mix Personality Labrador Retrievers have a reputation for being more outgoing and social, and definitely, love to play. However, both breeds are capable of speed and endurance and have a calm, stable temperament. Also, given the broad similarities between the Lab and the Spaniel, the qualities to be expected in a Cocker Spaniel Lab mix puppy are more easily predicted than other mixes. Size, Weight, and Height of the Cockerdor Both the Cocker Spaniel and Labrador are considered medium sized dogs, however, at different ends of the spectrum. There is definitely a noticeable size difference between the two breeds. Male Labradors can weigh anywhere between 65 to 80 pounds, with a height of .Females are typically smaller, weighing 55 to 70 pounds and are .The Cocker Spaniel is technically still within the medium range, but is, in fact, the smallest sporting dog in this AKC group. Male Cocker Spaniels have heights ranging from .The Labrador Cocker Spaniel mix could end up anywhere within this range. This is an important point to be aware of there is a considerable difference between a dog that is 20 pounds and one that is 70 pounds! Cockerdor Dog Coats and Grooming Requirements The American Cocker Spaniel has two coats: a shorter undercoat, and a longer, silkier outer coat, which can be either straight or wavy. Spaniels have longer hair—termed feathering—around the ears, belly, chest, and legs. The amount and length of fur on a Cocker Spaniel requires regular grooming, to avoid tangling and matting. Labradors also have two coats, although their top coat is much coarser, sometimes called a Guard coat, to help repel water and protect the skin. While grooming is always important, Labradors do not need bathing as often as some other breeds due to their shorter, sturdier coat. As a mixed breed, a Cocker Spaniel Lab mix could end up with either coat or something in between. Thus, grooming regimens may vary. What we do know for sure is that Labs are a high shedding breed, so you need to be prepared for the possibility of dealing with a whole lot of hair. Even with a Cocker Spaniel Lab mix! Cocker Spaniel Lab Mix Temperament and Behavior Both Labradors and Cocker Spaniels are known for their stable and balanced temperament as well as a friendly, loving nature. Both breeds are outgoing dogs that love to play and are relatively easy to train. And to potentially avoid walks with lots of rabbits or squirrels to distract them! Since both of the parent breeds have very similar temperaments, this increases the likelihood that a Cockador dog will exhibit the same behavioral traits. Therefore, the Spanador temperament is generally stable, easy-going, and friendly. Spanador dogs are known for being loving towards people and eager to socialize with humans. However, it is still important to check the temperament of both parents, as well as the background and upbringing of the dog. And to ensure your pet is provided with proper socialization and training. Dysplasia occurs when a ball and socket joint does not form properly, which results in rubbing and grinding of the joint. Dysplasia causes pain and wear of the bone and can lead to a loss of mobility. Symptoms of this disease tend to show up in puppies between 4 and 6 months old. Treatments carried before your dog reaches two years old tend to be more successful. This will reduce the risk of your puppy having dysplasia. Weight Issues in Labradors Labradors are known to struggle with obesity. According to one study , this was linked to Labrador Retrievers being more food obsessed than other breeds. Another study suggested obesity may actually be linked to a genetic trait. Either way, Labradors increased the likelihood of obesity combined with being prone to hip dysplasia, can result in serious medical complications if your Cockerdor inherits both of these traits. In addition, obesity is commonly associated with shorter lifespans, mobility issues, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Other ailments specific to Labrador Retrievers are aortic stenosis, lumbosacral stenosis, and exercise-induced collapse. Cocker Spaniels have additional health concerns including epilepsy, seborrheic dermatitis, otitis externa, and cardiomyopathy. The best way to avoid them is to only pick a puppy from health tested parents. Good breeders health test, and are happy to provide you with evidence of these tests too. This means your Cocker Spaniel-Lab mix will likely have these traits. Both the parent breeds require regular, invigorating exercise , and by extension, a Cocker Spaniel-Lab mix will require regular physical activity. Since both of the parent breeds are in the Sports Group of dogs, they tend to excel at running, hunting, fetching, and swimming. Extended outdoor exercise will be preferred by your Cocker Lab mix. Labrador and Cocker Spaniel mixes are often eager to please, which should make training fairly easy, compared to more stubborn breeds. Start using positive reinforcement training techniques from an early age, and put a real focus on getting a great recall. Cocker Spaniel Labrador mix pups will enjoy prolonged periods of exercise outside. This means a home with a large open area or a family that will take their pup out to suitable natural environments is preferable. Both Labs and Cocker Spaniels are particularly well-known for craving human interaction and being friendly dogs. Labs are especially prone to becoming anxious and destructive if left unaccompanied for long periods of time. They and their crosses are therefore not suited to a home where the family is out for much of the day. So if you are at home often and love company, you may be able to provide the ideal home for a Cocker Spaniel Lab! Designer dog breeders of Labrador cross Cocker Spaniel puppies can be found online. Alternatively, you could contact animal sale and adoption websites. Pay attention to the living conditions your puppy is in, ask about both parents, and get as much information as you can to understand the background of your puppy. Even still, you could end up with a puppy that has the traits of either of the parent dog breed, or your dog could end up having a medical condition that was not seen in either parent. This is why health testing is so important, particularly for issues known to impact both parent breeds, such as hip and elbow dysplasia. This will help you to predict any potential issues or areas for concern. If you are home a lot, love long walks and visits to the park, and want a friendly outgoing dog that will give you plenty of attention, then a Cocker Spaniel Labrador mix may just be the dog for you. Do you have a Cocker Spaniel-Lab mix? Please share your experiences in the comment section below. References and Further Reading Beuchat, C. The Institute of Canine Biology. Burgess K et al. Treatment of immune-mediated hemolytic anemia in dogs with cyclophosphamide. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine. Mukherjee M et al. Lumbosacral stenosis in Labrador retriever military working dogs — an exomic exploratory study. Canine Genetics and Epidemiology. Oberbauer, A et al. Ten inherited disorders in purebred dogs by functional breed groupings. Patterson EE et al. A canine DNM1 mutation is highly associated with the syndrome of exercise-induced collapse. Nature Genetics. Raffan E et al. Development, factor structure and application of the dog obesity risk and appetite DORA questionnaire. Cell Metabolism. Smith et al. Lifelong diet restriction and radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis of the hip joint in dogs. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. The Cocker Lab Mix Lab Cocker mix This last part of the article will be split into five parts; all five pieces will be essential for a healthy, well-balanced Cocker Spaniel Lab. These agile hunters could quickly take off chasing an animal and may get lost. So always make sure to have your dog on a leash unless, of course, you are hunting and or are in an enclosed area. With adequate exercise given every day, the Cocker Spaniel Labrador will be an excellent family pet. If you are a couch potato, this breed is definitely not for you, so please get a dog like the Charles Spaniel. Charles Spaniel is a couch potato they are not one for running around the yard or going out on long walks. King Charles Spaniel mostly loves sleeping, whether that is on the bed or the couch. Socialization of the Spanador Socialization is a must for any dog, and whether he is big or small, it is essentially teaching them good dog manners. You can also take your puppy to puppy classes; this knocks out two birds with one stone. You are getting your puppy to meet with other puppies, and at the same time, you are getting expert training and advice. Avoid taking your puppy to the dog park. The dogs in the dog park can be rude and even aggressive. One bad experience can scare your puppy for life. The dog park can also be a carrier of disease and germs to your puppy. So training they will be easy if you consistently train the puppy from the beginning. A well-trained dog is easy to spot, in comparison, the untrained dog is all over the place, with the master holding on for dear life. Training starts whenever you get home with your puppy. Whenever you have free time, train the puppy. When training the puppy, do not give up on the give of commands! Then praise the puppy with a treat and or a few words of praise once they follow through. This adorable great dog comes from two of the most popular and beloved breeds in the dog world. The result is a physically versatile mix, perfect for active families or highly athletic owners. Cocker Spaniels The Cocker Spaniel is a charming and affectionate breed. It has a rich history dates back to its origins in the United Kingdom. It was initially bred there for hunting Eurasian woodcock. Cocker spaniel coats are wavy, silky coats. They also have immensely expressive eyes. American Cocker Spaniels are smaller than their English counterparts. It makes them an attractive choice for breeding purposes — especially when creating designer breeds. They have gained widespread popularity in America due to their lovable personalities. They form strong bonds with family members. Indeed, they were primarily bred as hunting dogs centuries ago due to their impressive agility skills and keen sense of smell. These adaptable dogs excel at obedience training or more lighthearted pursuits like therapy work. They are truly versatile canines eager to please those around them. Originating from Newfoundland, the Labrador retriever was originally bred to help fishermen haul nets and retrieve fish. Labrador retriever history can be traced back to Canada in the s. Labrador retrievers come in three standard colors — black , chocolate brown , and yellow. It leads to interesting variations when crossbred with other dogs. Labrador Retrievers weigh pounds kilograms. Males are slightly larger than females. This blend results in a friendly good dog with a moderate size and an endearing personality. The offspring of such pleasant parent breeds have loveable temperaments and loyalty towards family members. They can inherit an active nature from both parent breeds, especially Labrador Retrievers, who were originally bred as working dogs. The Cocker Spaniel Labrador mix requires regular exercise like long walks or structured playtime events at home like most dogs Are Designer Dogs Healthier? There is a common belief that designer dogs are healthier than purebred dogs. While hybrid breeds may have unique traits and temperaments, they can still inherit health issues. A recent study compared the expectations and realities of owning purebred pups, mixed-breed dogs, and designer dog breeds. The study found that owner experiences differed by type of dog breed. Owners of mixed-breed or designer-breed dogs report more behavioral problems than those with purebred puppies. Whether a purebred or mixed-breed dog is right for you depends on your lifestyle and personal preferences. Socialization Of The spanador puppies Early socialization is crucial for any dog breed, and the Labrador retriever Cocker spaniel mix is no exception. These dogs are known to be friendly and loving towards people. However, exposing them to different environments and situations from an early age is important. Daily exposure to other dogs, people, places, sounds, and smells will ensure your Lab cocker spaniel mix adjusts well to new situations. Proper socialization also prevents behavioral problems like aggression toward strangers or fear of loud noises. Positive interactions with other animals or humans during the formative years from 8 weeks old upward are vital. It increases the chances of a happy dog enjoying being around family members and unfamiliar faces! It is to protect your Spanador puppies from potential harm and negative experiences affecting their future behavior. Instead of taking your puppy to an overcrowded dog park, enroll them in a puppy class. You can also organize controlled play dates with other puppies around their age and size. You can also take them on walks in quiet areas where they can explore new sights, sounds, and smells. They are attentive dogs that thrive on human companionship, making them great family pets. It makes them easy to train. Hence, plenty of daily exercise to release excess energy is of the order. The Spanador is an intelligent, gentle-natured breed that loves family. The cocker spaniel and Labrador retriever are smart animals, which is reflected in the crossbreed. This hybrid dog is highly intelligent, playful, and eager to please. This breed has an even temperament and loves spending time with people. The Spanador is very sociable and enjoys interacting with both adults and children. They do not like being left alone for long periods. Spanadors are known for their intelligence and willingness to please, traits inherited from the Labrador, making them relatively easy to train. However, cocker spaniel mixes display a stubborn streak, likely influenced by their Cocker Spaniel lineage. Despite this, with consistent, positive reinforcement-based training methods, they respond well and enjoy the mental stimulation. Spanadors are usually great with children and can get along well with other pets, especially when socialized from a young age. They are quite energetic. Size, Weight, And Height Of The Cockerdor This labrador retriever mix can weigh between 20 and 47 pounds and have a years lifespan. It is a small, medium-sized dog with an athletic frame. Males are slightly larger than female Spanador. Male Cocker Spaniels can grow to about .No matter their gender or which parent they take after, these pups tend to adapt to living situations. From city apartments to a sprawling country farm that provides enough room, the breed reflects versatile physical accommodation. Even if the space is tight, the dog will do well till their exercise needs are met via long walks. Female lab cocker spaniel mix Both male and female Spanadors have loving and friendly natures. However, a male Spanador exhibits more dominant behavior and require extra training. Especially when interacting with other pets or children in the household. It must consist of high-quality dog food that meets their recommended daily calorie intake. Ensure it is based on their size, weight, and activity level. Avoid feeding them human food or table scraps. It can lead to obesity and other health issues. Control their portions and feed them small meals throughout the day instead of one or two large meals. Spanadors love eating and may overindulge if given a chance. Monitor their food intake and treat them with healthy snacks in moderation. They need plenty of fresh water available at all times to stay hydrated and support healthy digestion. Not sure what to feed your Spanador or how much they should eat? It is best to consult a veterinarian for professional advice. Exercise for cocker spaniel labrador mix The Cocker Spaniel Lab Mix is a high-energy dog needing plenty of exercises to stay healthy and happy. Daily walks, runs, and playtime in the yard are necessary for this active breed. For Spanadors, you can add a twist to this game by using items that float in water. Given their potential love for water inherited from the Labrador side, they will enjoy fetching a floating toy from a safe body of water. Scent Tracking Games: Labradors were originally bred for retrieving game, which makes them excellent at scent tracking. Hide treats or their favorite toy around the house or yard and let your Spanador find them using their nose. Bird Simulation Toys: Cocker Spaniels were historically bird dogs, so your Spanador may enjoy toys that mimic birds. There are specific dog toys on the market that simulate the fluttering of a bird.

But at the moment, they need your guidance. For now, this includes sleeping next to you for the first few weeks, maybe even longer. Just have their crate or bed close to wherever you sleep. Our articles on sleeping through the night and establishing a nighttime routine will give you extra tips on getting through this phase. A puzzle toy or Kong will work great at making them feel like you leaving them is actually something quite fun. Potty training All new puppy parents expect potty training to be on the cards. It will help to remember your Boxer pup is a bit of a goofball. For now, we definitely want to let your pup get used to you and settle into their new home. Teach your puppy about surfaces — Different surfaces can feel strange to pups. Use surfaces like grass, moss, paving and sand. Basically, make their tail wag and we bet yours will too. Teach your Boxer their name. Teach your Boxer puppy to sit. Remember what we said about Boxers and their jumping? Recall — Trust us. Preventing resource guarding Resource guarding is where your dog fiercely protects something they have and will do everything they can to keep hold of it. Dogs can resource guard food, a toy, even a person. You can do this by teaching them that hands and touch can be a good thing. As always, back up your soft touches with some treats. Remember that consent is also a thing with dogs! Never force your Boxer to be handled or pick them up against their wishes. Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Fireworks — Watch the world go by outside your house — Play dress up. This gives the owner an opportunity to see their dog at such a young age and then watch them quickly grown into strong and large adults. If you are purchasing a Boxer puppy, the dog should be at least 8 weeks old. In many regions it is illegal to have a puppy at a younger age. Up until 8 weeks, the puppy will need to be nourished by its mother. We're Home! That Boxer newborn puppy that you picked out has rapidly matured into an 8 week old and it's time for your new family member to join the household. Bringing a puppy home should be well planned in advance. If you have a large family, other members must be told to keep the environment calm and peaceful until your Boxer puppy has a chance to gain their bearings and become used to its new home. Have everything you need so that you do not need to suddenly run out to the store for a forgotten item. Do not allow the puppy to be rushed at by many people wishing to hug, pat and smother him or her with kisses. That can come a bit later. Your new Boxer must be approached gently and with warm voices. Puppies are a good, robust size but are still fragile. It is very sad when a puppy is stepped on accidentally; this can cause great harm. From birth to the 1 year mark, trauma is the leading cause of fatalities with this breed. Children must understand how to gently treat a pup. Very young children should be watched during interaction. All members of the home must be very aware of what may be underfoot. Your Boxer puppy should be given a tour of the home. Do not expect your new pup to know where everything is! Show him or her where they can find their water, where to expect their meals to be served, their dog bed and their toys. A puppy needs the security of knowing where to find what they need. Puppies will need quite a bit of care from you. This includes: Feeding - A puppy should be fed times per day. More feeding information can be found in our Feeding section. Only high quality puppy food must be given. This will be a time of rapid growth and your Boxer puppy needs the right dog food for optimal health. Vaccinations - All puppies will need the full schedule of vaccinations. This is absolutely vital to the health of the pup. If the budget is tight, your dog's veterinarian should be able to provide a discount or recommended animal clinics which provide shots for a very minimal fee. This includes that absolutely necessary Heart worm prevention medication, as well. Comfort and safety - Boxer puppies are rambunctious. They will jump, bounce and play. They will need loving attention and interaction with their owner or owners. Plenty of room to play, lots of toys and acts of love are crucial to the physical and emotional growth of a pup. A puppy is just learning about its world; yelling or hitting is never called for. Through love, patience and understanding a puppy will learn what is expected. Negative reactions from its owner will simply teach the puppy to be afraid. Housebreaking - This should begin as soon as you bring your puppy home. Read more in our housebreaking section. When started early and with consistency, your Boxer puppy will soon learn where it is appropriate to eliminate. A schedule - Puppies know nothing about the world except for what you show them. It is important to keep a puppy on a schedule that they can depend on. Normal times for baths, exercise , walks, feedings, grooming , play time and sleep time are recommended. Some Things to Expect The first year will be full of changing behaviors and a change in physical appearance. Here's what you can expect: A Boxer puppy will whine if he is hungry, wants attention or once he is learning house training, if he has a bathroom need The time to instill training for barking and other behavior is now - before habits can form Puppies are super hyper , but will also sleep quite a bit - Anywhere from 15 to 18 hours per day including night time and daytime naps The first year is one of rapid growth, but do expect starts and stops. As your Boxer reaches adolescence, there is sometimes a brief period of stalled weight gain at which time a Boxer may appear too skinny. This typically only lasts a few months before that final gain happens that allows him to fill out. Puppyhoood is the time to do socialization training - You'll want to introduce your puppy to as many people, other dogs, events and situations as possible so that he learns control and gains self-confidence. Health Check A Boxer puppy should be checked over every day to check for certain issues. Eyes- The eyes should be clear and bright. Any excessive discharge is a reason to go to the veterinarian Ears and nose - These areas should be cleaned each day with a damp, soft washcloth. Discharge of any color is a reason for a checkup with the vet Breathing - A puppy's breathing should always be clear and easy. Forced breathing, wheezing, coughing or other strange sounds must be taken care of immediately through the dog's veterinarian or closest animal hospital Limping - Puppies may be a bit clumsy or wobbling when very young. However limping is never normal. This must be brought to a vet's attention ASAP Tank - 9 months old Photo courtesy of owner: Jaymie Conner Skin - It is normal for a Boxer puppy to have some loose skin around the neck area and there will be some facial folds. These areas can hold in moisture which can lead to a fungal or bacterial infection. Moisture can accumulate when the pup drinks or when he drools. Keep the area nice and dry to prevent any problems.

Sign up for BoxerBriefs to get news delivered right to your mailbox! Get them early for holiday gifts! We are an organization dedicated to the rescue and adoption of Boxers in the metropolitan-Atlanta area, and to provide support and education for Boxer owners. We are operated and managed by a group of dedicated volunteers, and we are funded by adoption fees, fundraisers, and gifts from generous donors like you! Atlanta Boxer Rescue, Inc. If you are interested in adopting a Boxer in Atlanta, you've come to the right place. Take a moment to learn about the Boxer breed, including some of its history. When you are ready to move forward, familiarize yourself with everything you need to know before you adopt. Some Frequently Asked Questions are answered on our site as well. We strive to support your adoption to make it a success for you and your new Boxer friend. All of our Boxers have had a check-up with a veterinarian, been spayed or neutered, and brought up-to-date on vaccinations. We have also done our best to evaluate our Boxers for temperament, socialization, and house-breaking. We are always looking for great volunteers to help us. If you are interested in being a foster home for a Boxer in need, thank you! The number of Boxers that we can save depends on the number of willing volunteers like you. Please complete our Foster Application or contact us for more information. We have a lot of resources to help you. Sign up for our newsletter , contact us about any questions or concerns you might have, or seek comfort if you've lost your Boxer friend. We can't do this without you, so please consider a donation or a purchase from the ABR Store! Liberty and her brother, Uncle Sam, were found eating bird food on a porch on the 4th of July. They were starving. These sweet pups can be a little scared at first but they warm up quickly. She likes other dogs as well. Liberty would be fine away from her brother. Liberty is smart, knows to sit and will quickly learn what she needs to be be great in any home. The foster is working on not jumping and sitting to eat, as they both eat like they are still starving. The foster is using slow feeder bowls to slow them down. These beautiful little dogs deserve a good loving home. Liberty will be your best buddy for life if you open your heart and home to her. Please call the shelter at to schedule a meet and greet. Madison Oglethorpe Animal Shelter is a non-profit shelter serving over square miles. We are open intake, meaning we can not turn away animals from either county we serve. Our shelter intakes double or triple it's capacity every month so it is essential we place animals quickly into adoptive homes. Since so many animals enter the shelter we often don't have enough volunteers to write an individual bio for each. Please feel free to call the shelter Wednesday-Sunday to inquire about the animal you are interested in. All adoption fees include age-appropriate vaccinations, flea treatment, deworming, and spay or neuter, microchip, and adoption packet. For your convenience you can fill out an adoption application for any of our current residents at www. It's a great way to stay up to the minute on the furry 4 legged friends we have looking for a loving forever home. We are located at Colbert Danielsville Rd Danielsville, GA NOTE: Our adoptions are first come first served, simply filling out an application does not mean the animal will be held for you, you must come meet the animal in person in order to be considered for adoption. If you rent you must bring your lease or a letter from your landlord stating you may adopt.

Share 0 Shares Finding the right breeder for your Golden Retriever is important. You might be shopping for pet-quality puppies, but most AKC-registered breeders also sell pet-quality dogs out of each litter. This means that there is no reason not to buy from a breeder that is AKC-recognized to ensure that you get a healthy dog that will be free of genetic flaws. In rare instances, there are breeders who intentionally create a litter of pet-quality puppies each year. You might pay less for these dogs, but you will need to make sure that the breeder is still doing all the right genetic testing and care for the litter of puppies before and after they have arrived. Getting a Golden Retriever puppy is exciting, and you will want to be sure that none of the fun is taken out of the process by working with a poor-quality breeder. You will just need to use this guide to help you to track down the right breeder for your needs. Remember that there are different types of Golden Retrievers , and you might need to verify that the breeder you are interested in has the dogs that you are looking for. You can never ask too many questions of the breeders that you are planning to get a puppy from as this is a very important decision. Arkansas River Golden Retrievers are managed with pride by the family, and they work hard to create healthy litters of puppies that can be AKC registered or that can be enjoyed as family companions. They manage a large group of breeding dogs that offer different coat patterns and textures as well as different conformations and temperaments. This breeder is very busy, and you will be added to a waiting list when you are looking for a puppy. You will need to fill out an application on their site and then discuss your goals and plans for your dog with them. You will be able to select from pet-quality as well as show-quality dogs with this breeder. The price for puppies varies depending on the quality of the puppy and the care that was needed to create the litter, plus any added fees for outside stud dogs. The breeder promises to send AKC registration papers with each puppy they sell, but you are not required to pay to register your puppy. Pet-quality dogs must be spayed or neutered so that they cannot be bred. Puppy deposits are not refunded for changes of heart, but the breeder promises to refund the money if the litter does not get bred that year or they themselves do not choose to sell the puppy. Puppies and parent dogs are carefully tested for any genetic conditions, as well as provided care for parasites and given routine health checkups. Depending on the age at which the puppy is released to its new owner, vaccinations may or may not have been completed for the puppy. This breeder wants every dog they breed to have a lifelong home. If you feel that your puppy is not working out, the breeder will take the dog back. People love this breeder for its affordable prices, their commitment to their dogs, and their passion for creating pets and show-quality animals. They are easy to work with and love what they do. Name of Owner. Choosing the right food to feed your new pet is crucial to their overall health and well-being and should be done with careful thought and consideration. Delivering the ultimate balance of quality meats, animal fats, vitamins, and minerals, TLC provides everything your pet needs to develop into a strong, healthy, and energetic companion. Premium quality pet food, made using wholesome, natural ingredients Delivered fresh and delivered FREE to your door No risk, money-back guarantee Schedule using Autoship and never worry about running out of food! You can change, adjust and cancel Autoship anytime, giving you the flexibility you need as your pet grows. This starts as soon as you bring your new puppy home! Puppies express their wants and needs through certain behaviors - and not all of those behaviors are considered "desirable" by typical dog standards. Most owners try to redirect those behaviors and aim for the "desirable" one without pausing to think about why the behavior is occurring in the first place. Click the button for a fantastic article about mand training and how it can benefit the bond between you and your puppy. What is an English Cream Golden Retriever? Read the answer to this common question here: English Cream Golden Retriever The relationship between a potential new family member and us is special. Our website includes information about us, our facility and Golden Retrievers, and how we raise our puppies with our Foundational Start program. Our program has years of experience working with veterinarians, trainers, and training programs. We love that our program has allowed our families to achieve a wonderful companion dog and, in many cases, a service and therapy dog working with them. I have personally been to their facility, and the cleanliness and loving environment blows me away every single time. The amount of veterinary care and health testing to ensure they meet quality standards is second to none. Plus have a beautiful pond for our Goldens to swim. We meet most of our families in Dallas DFW that fly in from all over the country, coast to coast, from Alaska to Maine. We raise our English Golden Retrievers in the comforts of a home environment. We built a dog home, we call the Wisteria Golden Lodge with a bedroom, kitchen, and living room they share with us humans. While their environment, food quality, vitamins, love, and care are essential for providing families with a well-balanced socialized puppy, health is a priority. As genetic testing progresses, some of our younger dogs will have DM Degenerative Myelopathy. Our complete panel of tests includes health tests for the heart, eye, and elbows, and we do PennHip testing for their hips. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. We are serious hobby breeders of beautiful Golden Retrievers, located in central Arkansas. Let us introduce ourselves, Julie and Randy Lewis. We are natives of Little Rock, Arkansas and both grew up in the country just west of town. Our families both had dogs from day one. We learned to love them and realize that life would never be as full without paw prints on the floor and sloppy doggie kisses to make us smile. We are thrilled to be able to fulfill a lifelong dream of raising fabulous Golden Retrievers to enrich the lives of others. Julie's Dad, Tery Baskin, did a lot of duck hunting and usually had a Golden Retriever by his side during those hunts. After graduating from college, she was involved with animal rescue groups, fostering many dogs of all breeds and placing them in homes. They have the combination of temperament, personality, intelligence, looks, and a desire to please that is unsurpassed by any other breed. Julie decided that if she ever had the chance she would love to raise happy, healthy, well adjusted Golden Retriever puppies to enrich the lives of well deserving families. After spending years in banking, Julie decided the time was right to make her dream come true. She now is a stay at home doggie mom. She loves having the time to interact with her older dogs, compete in the confirmation ring, dock diving, and other dog sports, socializing the puppies and provide the best home she can for her beloved Golden Retrievers. We are lucky enough to live out in the country with acres of land where our dogs can romp and play daily. We also love taking our dogs to our lake house for swimming and boating! She has made lifelong friends through her love of this breed. Julie is fortunate to have a husband who loves animals as much as she does. Randy was an automotive mechanic for 13 years and then sold Auto parts for 6 years. He is now working at Paramount Metal Systems as an Estimator. His passion in life is everything to do with cars and trucks. When he is not in his shop tinkering with his antique car, he enjoys hunting, fishing and spending time with the dogs, cats, and horses. Our entire life, before and during marriage we have had a passion about animals. You name them, we had them. Big birds hawks little birds parakeets dogs, cats, horses and a few hampsters. Then came the big life changer. Our oldest son got a Golden Retreiver and named her Bear. He took her with him to Jonesboro, Arkansas where he was living at the time. When Bear died at about 14 years of age, a part of our hearts went with her. She waited until the family was all around her, looked at us and collapsed. Our vet told us she had everyone she loved around her and knew it was okay to go ahead of us. It took us over two years to heal enough to start looking for another Golden. I started searching out Golden Retreivers. I called Veternerians to ask for their advice. I called ads in the paper and had some horrifying results. Finally I found one vet that referred me to a breeder, who referred me on to her mother. This is when I learned about English Creme Retreivers. The more I learned, the more I wanted to learn. There is an essence about a Golden that has to be felt as opposed to described. They seem to see right into your soul. In Goldens I have found my passion. We want to do all that we are able to improve the breed. We have searched and still are searching to find just the right Goldens to add to our family. We also have two of our homegrown girls. Isabella our beautiful girl from Augie and Annie is living separate from us with her family, our son and daughter in law, Michael and Eleshia. Our four legged family is family and will always be a part of our family…forever. Willows are graceful, peaceful, yet very strong trees. They like to grow near ponds, lakes or bodies of water. They grow very quickly. They have many of the same attributes of our Goldens. Cross, well, cross is pretty much self explanatory. Our dogs are family, they live with us, play with us, snuggle with us. We do not have outside kennels, although I know many very nice breeders do. Our goal is to raise, healthy, well adjusted, bright and beautiful goldens that will enhance your family as they have done ours. Because we are very careful about who we breed and when we breed, if you want one of our puppies, you just might have to wait. If you choose to wait, you will not be disappointed. We live in the beautiful Ozarks among lakes, mountains and lots of trails. Personal visits to meet our beautiful golden family are available by appointment. Please enjoy our website. It is still under construction — but if you have any questions or comments you are welcome to contact us anytime. Your comments, questions and inquiries are always welcome. You can contact us by phone: Cell Phone: Or feel free to email us at nancyanneziegler gmail.

The transition period can be a little intimidating once you get over the cuteness overload and realize that your new puppy has no training whatsoever and it's up to you how things will progress from there. We'll try to make it easier for you with this short list of things to do the first 2 weeks after bringing your new puppy home. Your puppy is in a brand new place and it's their first time being away from their mom and siblings. I know you want to bring the puppy with you everywhere, play all day and show him or her off to all of your friends and family. But take it slow at first so that your new puppy can get settled and relax. Hang out at home. Become a professional treat dispenser. And begin the foundation of building your bond with your pup. Crate training is the best way to house train. Introduce your puppy to the crate early on by making it a positive experience. Toss a high value treat inside and let them explore and go inside on their own volition. Place a chew toy that can hold treats into the crate and close the door. Make sure the puppy sees you do this. When the puppy tries to paw and get inside the crate, open the door and let them in. When they start chewing on the toy, close the door for a few seconds before opening. And remember to reward your puppy when it's playing quietly inside the crate and to ignore any whining. Also remember the rules of potty training using the crate. If the pup just ate or drank, let them outside. If the pup is coming out of the crate for any extended time, let them outside. If your pup is so much as sniffing the ground a little too much, you guessed it, let them outside. The fewer accidents inside the house, the less likely it is for the puppy to get into the habit of going inside the house. Start immediately with potty training and socialization. Puppies aren't fully protected until their final vaccination at weeks, so openly socializing in public isn't the best idea. But you can have friends and family come over to meet your puppy, as well as their fully vaccinated, well behaved dogs and puppies. You can also begin the foundation of basic obedience commands. All that's necessary later on is getting consistency and working around distractions. Unless of course you want to compete in obedience or a sport that requires obedience. Competition makes things a little more complicated than that. This step is often overlooked and it's arguably the most important step for a new puppy. Puppies love a routine. It's comforting knowing what's going to happen. Wake up in the morning, outside to potty. A little training with treats, breakfast, outside to potty again. A little play time etc. If you have to go to work, make sure you have a friend, relative, dog walker or dog sitter to let the puppy outside if you can't make it home during your break to let the puppy use the potty. They have a tiny bladder and can't hold it for a full workday. When you have a routine that works, things will go smoothly. If you stray from that routine or never establish one, you'll have more accidents, a confused puppy, and quite possibly a headache. Consistency is key, and make sure you throw in several short training sessions. Most places require these. It may sound silly that you're probably legally required to get a license for your dog, but.But rules are rules. Better safe than fined! A vet who has fair prices for your area, yet is also professional and competent is a must. You will see your vet often enough that they will eventually know your name without having to check the paperwork. So your best bet is to find a good one! Routine checkups, vaccinations, and minor or even major health issues will happen. So build a relationship with a local vet as soon as possible. Also, if you have a German Shepherd or any other large breed and ever intend to breed, you should try to find either an orthopedic vet or a vet who is experienced in taking and sending in hip and elbow x-rays to the OFA to be graded. This may not be your primary veterinarian, but it's good to plan ahead. Even if you don't intend to breed, most breeders state in their contract that they will cover hips and elbows, but only if you get preliminary x-rays or have x-rays graded within a certain amount of time usually 2 years. As a bonus, taking hip and elbow x-rays at 2 years old can help extend the quality of life for your dog if they do end up having dysplasia. You'll know to dial down exercise that is hard on the joints, and that can mean the difference between a dog with pain at 5, and a dog who lives its whole life without pain. It'll also give you a head start on a medication and treatment plan. There are dogs with moderate hip dysplasia that live a very comfortable, long life without the need for surgery thanks to their owner taking that extra step of getting x-rays done. The advanced notice gives their owner a head start on supplements and getting into therapy programs, like swimming, to strengthen the muscle around the joint before they're ever in pain. So this may not be a necessary step if you don't care about your breeder's guarantee, but it can help ease your mind or give you a heads up before a problem even surfaces. But it'll be much less stressful if you have a plan in advance and stick with these 6 tips. If you have any other tips or tricks, leave them down in the comments below and be sure to leave a like and share! They need to go to the toilet How to stop a german shepherd puppy crying at night? There are many different reasons that your pup may be crying at night. Fortunately, there are also lots of ways to help him sleep better at night. Here are a few of the ways you can stop your german shepherd puppy from crying at night: Exercise to tire your German Shepherd puppy out: Your puppy should be taken out for 5 minutes for however many months old they are. For example, a 3-month-old puppy would be taken out for 15 minutes. Make sure you tire them out enough to help them sleep better at night. Let your German Shepherd puppy outside before bed: Make sure you let your puppy outside to relieve himself before putting him to bed. Surround your German Shepherd puppy with familiar objects: Bring clothing with the scent of the home or the breeder next to him while he sleeps. This will help give him something familiar and help him ease into the transition to his new home. Play soothing music: Playing classical music before and during bedtime can help alleviate whining and anxiety as well as drown out other noise or unfamiliar sounds that may upset or rouse your puppy. The average dog sleeps for only 45 minutes at a time, while human sleep cycles are much longer, lasting 70 to minutes. Dogs can only experience two sleep cycles during that time period. Dogs also differ from humans in that they are polyphasic sleepers, which means they sleep on and off throughout the day. Humans, on the other hand, are monophasic sleepers. Most humans receive their 7 to 9 hours of sleep all at once. While humans spend most of their waking hours awake and alert, dogs dedicate up to 5 hours of their day to simply resting. Dogs who rest more during the day tend to seem happier and more relaxed. Do dogs dream and what about? Dreaming occurs mainly during this REM phase of sleep. And dogs do cycle through REM during their sleep. So its make sense to believe that dog do dream. A puppy will spend more time in dream sleep than an adult dog as they fall asleep more often. So just what are our furry friends dreaming about? Anything your dog does during the day is being processed while they sleep and relived in their dream. This can be observed by their twitching whiskers, the whimpering, and the running paws while they are sleeping. Chances are that your dog may also be dreaming about you if you spend enough quality time interacting with them. They will be dreaming about your play session, walks, and cuddle time together. Where should my German Shepherd puppy sleep? German Shepherd puppies should sleep inside with comfortable beddings. This is because if your puppy has too much space to roam, it will be harder to get them potty trained as they will just find a spot to do their business away from where they are sleeping. You can place the crate beside your bed or in an area close to you. In this way, your new furry friend can smell you. And it gives him a sense of security. Should I sleep with my German Shepherd puppy? You should not sleep with your German Shepherd puppy during the first few months home. Yet you can let your pup sleep beside you in a crate or a dog bed. Your puppy needs to get used to a regular schedule, work on their independence, and see you as the dominant figure. Once your GSD has become an adult months-old to 2-year-old , it will be fine for you to sleep with him. Can I let my German Shepherd puppy sleep with me? A new dog may need some time to adjust before they are ready to sleep in your bed. If they show interest in sleeping with you and are well-behaved , you can always let them on the bed later on down the road. What are the benefits of sleeping with dogs? If you are still reading, chances are you might like to sleep with your dog at night. Pets offer comfort and security, but they may affect sleep quality or trigger allergies for some people. Petting dogs in particular has proved to reduce blood pressure and heart rate. If touching your pet is part of the key to gaining health benefits, cuddling up together at night is only to make it better. Sleeping with dogs promotes creativity Studies have shown that when dogs are with their owners their heartbeats sync up. This experience promotes theta brainwaves which can be seen in connection with creativity, intuition, daydreaming, and fantasizing and is a repository for memories, emotions, sensations. Theta waves are strong during internal focus, meditation, prayer, and spiritual awareness. Sleeping with dogs boost your mood Studies have found that people who spend time with dogs reported fewer depressive symptoms. Not only is it fun to be with your furry friends, it also helps us relax and increases our flow of oxytocin, the love chemical. Sleeping with dogs makes you feel safe Think about it — your GSD is hard-wired to protect. Many people and having the dog protecting them helps them feel more secure and sleep more soundly. Sleeping with dogs is comfortable That furry, cuddly animal is likely to love lying with you just as much as you enjoy laying with them. The level of comfort a dog brings to the bed helps put you at ease and makes you feel cozy. Sleeping with dogs promote immunity Many people have hygienic concerns when it comes to sleeping with their dogs. However, one study found that infants who slept with their pets were less likely to develop allergies later on in life. After all, your new furry friend will sleep for at least 15 hours per day during their short lives. And the better they sleep, the healthier and happier they are. Further reading. Checklist Dog Crate Getting a crate for your German Shepherd puppy is quite crucial for the following reasons: Allows the puppy to feel secure Speeds up potty training Keeps the puppy safe by controlling his environment Conditions your dog should you need to travel and use a travel crate Some people erroneously feel guilty for crating their pup. However, dogs need structure, especially when bred from work-driven breeds like German Shepherds. A dog crate provides a sense of security by reducing the space around the pet. A room might be small enough for us, but placing the puppy in it will make him feel like he is in a large vacant warehouse. The necessity of getting a dog crate brings up the question of size. What size crate is best for a new GSD puppy? Read my post on the recommended German Shepherd crate size to find out the best size to buy and why. Opt for the size inch variety. You can move the divider to make more room as your puppy grows. I draped a dark-colored blanket over the top to make it more den-like. She was around three years old when I finally got rid of it, but some dogs enjoy them for life. As German Shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia, arthritis, and other joint issues, you should invest in a good crate pad. Dog Bed You might think getting a crate is the same as getting a bed. Some crates come with a matt or pad disguised as a puppy bed. Since German Shepherds are big dogs and do not take much time to grow to their full size, you will need an orthopedic dog bed to support their weight and protect their joints. My post on the best orthopedic dog beds for German Shepherds elaborates on the pros and cons of different dog beds. The gist is that you need a bed to prevent joint pain that bigger dogs experience. German Shepherds are prone to arthritis, and though a genetic element plays a role, bad crating practices can accelerate such problems. I chose the Big Barker because of the scientific evidence that it improves joint pain and stiffness in arthritic dogs, enhancing their quality of life. This means a lot to me as my German Shepherd was diagnosed with spinal osteoarthritis at only six years old, but it helps knowing she sleeps comfortably. I have to admit — I was also attracted to their year no-flatten guarantee. You can check out my full review of the Big Barker here. Novice dog masters also make things difficult through a combination of poor choices. Then they make the situation worse by opting for a collar and using tugging as a means of discipline. This is cruel to the dog and teaches him nothing. It is a front-clip harness, meaning you lead your pup from the front, which gives greater control and steering, making it impossible for your dog to pull. A fellow dog owner designed it, and it has all the love and care one would expect from an owner who is solving a problem he has previously faced — a dog that pulled. You can also learn more about my pick of the best no-pull harnesses for German Shepherds in this article. Toys German Shepherds are full of energy, which means they have to be surrounded by things that can exhaust their excess vitality, such as a range of chew toys, tug toys, and puzzle toys. These will stimulate his teeth, muscles, and mind, respectively. Toys help your new German Shepherd develop and stay entertained. You can also use toys to train a German Shepherd to find things and track, but that comes later. For now, you must make sure you get him a large selection of puppy toys. Your new best friend needs different exercise routines and changes in the environment, both of which can be normalized via travel. A car restraint allows you to secure your German Shepherd puppy in a car seat safely. Using a dog crate as recommended above will make it easy to communicate that car rides are okay. I like the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel because it comes in various sizes, and for the first few months, you might prefer a smaller crate. This model is made from premium plastic, does not require any tools to set it up, and has lots of vents to keep your pup well-ventilated. Poo Bags Your new German Shepherd puppy is going to be the cutest thing on earth up until he has to poop. At that time, how much you like having a GSD will be strongly correlated with how close you are to a poo bag. Regardless of whether you buy a pack of poop bags or accumulate enough disposable bags to cover a month of dog poop, you need to have something to carry dog waste. Remember, a puppy poops two to four times a day. Amazon Basics Unscented Dog Poop Bags are among the most affordable products in the category, with the bags supply being the most economical. These bags are 9 inches x 13 inches, which is a much more efficient size than the standard disposable bag. You might not need this size at first, but trust me; they are the best for an adult German Shepherd. Dog Shampoo You must get dry shampoo for your dog because German Shepherds do not need to bathe more than a few times a year. In other words, your new puppy is half a dozen baths away from adulthood. In the meantime, something is required to keep him clean, right? Tropiclean Waterless Shampoo for Pets is a high-quality, low-priced option made from natural ingredients like plum, oatmeal, and cucumber. It is backed by a market leader in natural wellness and has accumulated over 4, positive reviews and ratings on Amazon. Dog Food Food, water, and shelter are some of the basic needs of all mammals. Dogs are no exception, especially when they are bred under human supervision. Therefore, getting dog food is one of the most important prerequisites for bringing home a new German Shepherd. After that, just ensure you choose a large breed food. Bringing home a new pet is a joyful experience. You might find yourself constantly staring at the beautiful yet timid puppy, and it will take a couple of weeks for the puppy to feel at home. Until then, the dog will be open to cuddles and start interacting with the person who feeds him and plays with him. Make sure he spends time inside the crate as well as outside it. The dog may seem shy and aloof for the bulk of the first week, with the first day being his most seemingly introverted one. The dog will miss his pack and call out for them with whining or whimpering sounds or even barking. You should make sure he feels safe and secure and only comfort him through the night when you take him for a toilet break. Your German Shepherd puppy will need comfort, and you can do a few things to help him feel better. Comfort the pup to make him feel secure. Feed the puppy and make sure he is warm. Turn the lights off and make sure he gets enough sleep. Your new German Shepherd needs to get used to a schedule, work on independence, and see you as the leading figure. One of the differences you will notice when your puppy is freshly released from the breeder is his excessive appetite for sleep. Some might want the puppy to wake up to cuddle. Others will wonder if it is healthy for the puppy to sleep so much. In general, a German Shepherd puppy should sleep 8 hours at night and hours during the day. Though, the dog should not be forced to fit a schedule and must be left to determine how he divides his hours of sleep in the first few weeks of adoption. Final Thoughts The arrival of a new German Shepherd puppy can be an exciting time, but excitement can also inspire nervousness. The puppy will feel less overwhelmed and scared after the first 3 days and will further settle during the first 3 weeks. This is the time to have a good German Shepherd puppy training schedule so you know what to teach and when. Related Posts You May Like:. The puppy should be allowed to explore and meet his new family. You should now start teaching your puppy his name amazing because now Stetson knows his name like the back of his paw. Try again in 10 minutes. If the puppy does relieve himself in the proper area, give him lots of praise. Afterward, you may take him inside, but remember to supervise the puppy; do not let him out of your sight. Talk to your puppy when it explores to make him feel more at home. The first few nights at home may be difficult for both you and your pup. At night the puppy will feel lonely and will probably demonstrate this by whining Oh, you betcha! These are a few things that you can do that might make the puppy feel at home. We use a MidWest Life Stages Double Door Crate which comes with a divider this allows us to adjust the crate size and put a blanket over it to make it seem cozier. Keep the crate in a draft-free area next to your bed. For approximately the first three weeks, if your puppy cries, take him out, on a leash to relieving area. After relieving put him back into his crate. Do not give him any treats or any playtime. Put him right back into his crate and he should go back to sleep. Under no circumstances take the puppy to bed with you. This will form a very undesirable habit. Give the puppy a stuffed dog toy to snuggle with. Then when it was time to crate Stetson for the first night he could snuggle with the toy and smell the scent of his littermates. Our favorite and one we highly recommend is the Calmeroos Puppy Toy with heartbeat and heat pack. Our last puppy, Anna loved her Calmeroos Puppy Toy and it helped her sleep better her first night in her crate. Hold your puppy by his collar by slipping your thumb in his collar and set his food about two feet away. This should be done at every meal throughout training. Even within a breed. There are several people in our group who have raised 10 or more Labrador Retrievers in the Guide Dogs of America program and each one is different. My experience with Stetson was very difficult in the early days and weeks. I had no problem with Stetson when I first got him home. I already knew about the trials and tribulations of house training and crate training after raising my first rescue puppy, Linus. Puppies tend to piddle about every 10 to 20 minutes. You have to watch them like a hawk or they will end up using your house as their personal restroom. Stetson had some accidents here and there, but nothing out of the ordinary. The agony came in the evening. Stetson did NOT take to the crate! He whined, howled, cried, and barked…probably made every noise he could possibly produce, but would not relax and go to sleep. He did sleep once in a while honestly I felt like a zombie for over a month. During those first 4 weeks, the most sleep I got was approximately 6 hours, broken up 3 or 4 times a night by whining, howling, barking…you get the picture. I was a wreck and I thought Stetson would never get used to his crate. Awww, the first night home with puppy Stetson was…sleepless… I have two words for you — consistent and patient. After about 4 weeks of consistently sticking to my guns, not letting him out of his crate, and praising him when he was quiet Stetson suddenly stopped making noise in his crate. In the long run, it pays off. Stetson has not barked, howled, or whined in months. New puppy owners often ask me where should a puppy sleep on the first night? Starting on day one we want our puppies to get used to sleeping in their crate. If we allow them to sleep elsewhere like our beds then we are reinforcing the behavior of sleeping on the bed. Therefore, trying to start them in the crate will be more difficult on day 2. Also, I want them to get used to sleeping in their crate until they are potty trained and learn the appropriate rules in our house i. Most likely he will wake up crying times at night. What happens when your puppy starts crying? Should you let your puppy cry the first night? That question is more complicated than it seems. First, as mentioned earlier we crate train our puppies. If at the end of the night our puppies start crying in the crate they will most likely settle down after about minutes of whining. Therefore, yes we let our puppies cry. Second, if our puppy wakes up in the middle of the night and starts crying we take him immediately to his potty spot. After he goes potty we take him straight back to his crate to go back to sleep. This generally happens times a night. Those are the two most likely crying scenarios with your puppy. However, there are an infinite number of other possibilities for puppies crying in the crate on the first night. Should you leave your puppy alone on the first night? I sleep about a foot away from my puppy in my own bed, puppy in his crate. If I feel like my puppy is experiencing some anxiety on his first nights home I will also sometimes sleep on the floor for a few nights and slowly start to migrate back to my bed. This is the question I fear when I bring home a puppy. The answer is it depends, every puppy is different. However, you probably want to know what I consider normal for how long a puppy will cry at night? At which point he will likely settle down and go to sleep. Over the next 8 hours, most puppies will wake up times and will need to go outside and potty. When you get back from the potty break most puppies will cry for another minutes before they go back to sleep. After about 8 hours of sleep, your puppy will want to wake up and eat breakfast. As I mentioned earlier, all of my puppies sleep in their crate on the first night. This calls for a story: Many years ago, I talked to a friend who allowed her puppy to sleep in her bed. She cleaned up the mess but could still smell poop. Check out our New Puppy Checklist. Get a good book on raising and training a puppy like Puppies for Dummies. Let him get comfortable in his new environment. Start training your puppy immediately with basics like potty training, name, and crate. Always supervise your puppy. Use a small crate near your bed. Give your puppy a stuffed dog toy to snuggle with. Be consistent, persistent, and patient when training your puppy. The first night with a puppy is often a sleepless night. On the other hand, if you get a homesick puppy then you might have to endure a night possibly several nights of barking, howling, crying, and yelping puppy. Hopefully, you get the latter and are only disturbed a few times in your nightly slumber. Good luck! Tell us your experiences in the comment section below. Related Article.

Breeds The link has been copied! The German Shepherd breed has always been popular in America. In fact, they have been ranked as number 1 in popularity throughout most of U. If a female German Shepherd dog GSD has joined your family, and you are thinking about breeding from her, you may be curious about how many puppies you should expect in one litter — as well as how many she might have over her years with you. On average, a German Shepherd can have puppies per litter. Some have as many as 15 or as few as one puppy per litter. On record, the biggest German Shepherd litter was 17 puppies by a dog named Mosha. The gestation period is approximately 63 days about two months after conceiving. However, this number may vary by several days. A German Shepherd dog can have two litters per year until around the age of 8. This means that a German Shepherd Dog can have approximately 14 litters in her entire lifetime. Well, the answer to this may help you understand the quantity of puppies they produce in a litter. The German Shepherd is native to Germany and is a cross breed between working sheep dogs and a dog believed to be a quarter wolf. They were originally bred to protect families and to herd livestock. Are there factors that affect the number of puppies a female German Shepherd can have? How many times in a year can they give birth? Knowing how many puppies to expect may help you plan resources to accommodate them if you are planning on becoming a breeder. A female German Shepherd with a small body will have a smaller litter size compared to a GSD with a bigger body. If you want a larger litter size, therefore, you should breed your German Shepherd before they are seven years or older. The best breeding years are between 2- 5 years of age. As the male dog ages, their sperm count decreases, and this affects the number of puppies in the litter. If you are a breeder, it is best to practice breeding when the male dog is in its prime years, between 2- 5 years. This way, you are likely to get a bigger litter size. The female should also have a healthy diet before breeding. Diet and health go hand in hand. A diet that consists of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates will help your GSD to have a larger litter size. Your vet will help you determine the perfect diet before, during, and after your dog's pregnancy. Although it may be nerve-wracking, you need to be there to help your German Shepherd give birth. A whelping box with a heating pad or a heating lamp will help keep the new-born puppies warm. New-born puppies are unable to regulate their body temperature, hence why the heating pad or lamp will come in handy. Heating pads: place them under the blankets or towels where the puppies lie. Make sure the setting is comfortable for them. At birth, they weigh about 0. German Shepherd dog puppies have four developmental life stages after they are born. You will notice the mother licking her puppies to clean them. Milk from their mother is very crucial at this age. They can begin eating some main foods but still nurse and feed on soft foods. By eight weeks, a puppy has all its teeth, and the teething process begins. At this time, you should ensure each puppy starts to wear a properly-fitted dog collar. For added security, choose a collar that allows you to track their location via GPS. Final Thoughts Owning a dog is a joyous experience, and when you own a German Shepherd, you have a loyal, smart, fierce, and protective dog for life. To add to that, German Shepherd dogs make good mothers and they know what to do during and after giving birth. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Fi smart dog collars make it easier than ever. Aug 3, Share German Shepherds tend to have between five and nine puppies in a litter. Eight is the average. According to the AKC , the largest litter registered was 17 puppies. This litter size is significantly larger than some other breeds. German Shepherds are larger dogs, so they are going to have more puppies than smaller breeds. For instance, Dachshunds only have one to six puppies on average. The largest litter ever came from a Neapolitan Mastiff, a breed that can reach pounds. When it comes to litter sizes, size does matter. It is impossible to tell how many puppies that a particular dog might have until she gets further into her pregnancy. These factors may help you make a good guess, however. This is most obvious when comparing different dog breeds. In turn, small breeds have small litters. However, the exact size of the dog also matters. Smaller German Shepherds will have smaller litters on average than larger German Shepherds. If your dog is larger, she may end up having a larger litter, or she might not. This will reduce the overall size of the litter. Even if you feed her excellent food and take care of her, underlying health problems can cause puppies to perish before they are fully developed. Diabetes is an excellent example of this. However, improperly fluctuating blood sugar can have a massive impact on growing puppies. Without the proper blood sugar levels, many puppies will not develop properly. Short-term conditions can also cause some puppies to develop improperly and be reabsorbed. For instance, infections can cause one or more puppies to stop developing altogether. Most miscarriages go unnoticed without any clinical signs, especially if only a few puppies are lost. Only late-term miscarriages usually get noticed. This seems to happen most commonly in purebred dogs, according to the vets at High Street Steeping Vet Clinic. Purebred dogs may have more genetic abnormalities than mixed breed dogs because they inherit traits from a smaller genetic pool. The odds of them inheriting something harmful is higher, simply because there are fewer genes for them to inherit. Many purebred dogs are also inbred, including the German Shepherd. Middle-aged German Shepherds tend to have larger litters than younger and older dogs. German Shepherds typically have the largest litters around age 5. After that, they may decline in size. However, this decline is more rapid and apparent in some dogs than others. Many older dogs have health problems, which likely affects their litter size too. Some of these health impacts may go unnoticed and therefore, be wrongly attributed to age. Season There is evidence that the season that the dog gives birth affects the litter size. However, other studies found no correlation between when the litter was born and the overall litter size. There may be a regional component to this, though. In areas with more significant seasonal changes, the season may make more of a difference. In the tropics, it may not. However, more studies are needed to determine this possibility. Heritability Studies have found that dogs may inherit their litter size potential. Dogs that are born to bigger litters tend to have bigger litters themselves. If there is another factor at play, it will likely take precedent. Plus, much of this heritability may be linked to the size of the dog. Many dogs are going to be a similar size as their parents. Nutrition Image Credit: Monika Wisniewska, Shutterstock There are a few nutritional components that can affect litter size and the overall health of the mother and her puppies. When a mother dog becomes pregnant, her nutritional needs change. Protein is essential for pregnant dogs. This is similar to what puppies need, so many pregnant dogs are often fed puppy-intended dog food. Fatty acids may also play a role. Dogs with lower levels of serum glucose in their amniotic fluid tend to have smaller litter sizes. Therefore, feeding them a diet higher in omega fatty acids may be helpful. Image Credit: J. Feeding your canine a better diet may result in a bigger litter, for instance. If your dog is sick, it is paramount that you treat them before attempting to create a litter. However, these factors have to be adjusted before the dog gets pregnant. Once the dog has conceived, it is impossible to increase their litter size, though you can prevent losses. There are also many factors out of your control. While there are a few things that you can do to reduce the risk of these issues, you can never prevent them entirely. Even if your dog lives in a clean environment and is healthy, infections can still occur. You should be feeding her food suitable for puppies as soon as you plan on breeding her or at least as soon as you find out that she is pregnant. Choosing which dogs to breed also impacts litter size and can be controlled to a certain extent. However, some dogs may have small litter sizes but may otherwise be great breeding candidates. In general, to increase your dog's litter size, we recommend doing the following: Regular testing for infections Regular vet checks for reproductive tract disease Final Thoughts The average German Shepherd litter size is about eight puppies. However, there are many factors that can go into this. Keeping your dog healthy is essential to maximizing litter sizes. But many factors are outside of your control. If a puppy inherits specific genes, they are less likely to develop correctly and make it to birth, lowering the overall litter size. Related Reads:. A junior is the canine version of a teenager, and this is usually the time period between six and twelve months old. Adult dogs have completely finished growing and range between one and seven years old, while mature dog is at least seven years old. After this age, the dog will then be considered middle-aged. The ages of the last two categories will depend on the breed. A senior dog is an older dog that has reached the final quarter of its life expectancy. Since a German Shepherd has a life expectancy between 12 and 14 years, it will enter its senior years when it is between nine and .A geriatric dog is one that has reached the end of its stated life expectancy — and is still going strong. If Gunther the German Shepherd makes it to 15, he is considered geriatric. Is it true that dogs age seven years for every human year? She says it may have stemmed from an observation that dogs lived to be 10 years old, while humans lived to be 70 on average. It is true that dogs age much faster than humans, but the extent and speed of this process depends on many factors. Larger dogs tend to age faster and have shorter life expectancies than smaller dogs. The AKC divides dogs into four size categories: Small 20 pounds or under Medium 21 to 50 pounds Large 51 to pounds Giant Over pounds An adult male German Shepherd usually weighs between 66 and 88 pounds, and an adult female generally weighs between 49 and 73 pounds. Then, until they reach the age of five, they age four years every year. Large dogs that are over five years old then generally age five or six years every year, and a German Shepherd that lives to be 14 is comparable to a human of .How many puppies can German Shepherds have? It is born completely helpless and depends on its mother for everything; it even needs her help to go to the bathroom. The puppy will typically start to crawl when it is a week old, and its eyes will open a few days later. The first baby teeth emerge when the puppy is two weeks old, and it will start going to the bathroom on its own around the same time. The socialization period lasts from the third to the twelfth week. Then, when the puppy can move, see, and hear, it needs to learn the social skills that will enable it to successfully interact with humans and other dogs. However, it still needs to stay with its mother during this time, so she can teach it proper dog behavior and other vital life skills. German Shepherds this age should also be introduced to humans to begin getting used to their presence. They will generally begin playing with their littermates and their humans when they are about four weeks old. Puppies that are at least seven weeks old can then be housebroken. The following video covers the growth and development of a German Shepherd puppy from when it is seven weeks old to six months old. The owner noted such physical changes as increasingly erect ears and darkening fur. The juvenile period lasts from three to six months and ends when the dog reaches sexual maturity. By this age, the puppy has all of its baby teeth. The puppy will be old enough for obedience school towards the end of the juvenile period. By the time a German Shepherd is six months old , it will look mostly like an adult dog, but it has not yet finished growing. It will have reached about 70 percent of its adult height and weight, and it will also have all of its adult teeth. German Shepherds, at this age should be spayed or neutered unless their owner plans to breed them. Some Facts and Trivia About German Shepherd Dogs I thought it would be interesting to kick off this post with some facts and trivia about German Shepherds so that we can all know this unique dog better! These dogs are renowned for their intelligence, and many of them are capable of quickly picking up new behaviors. They also have a strong desire to collaborate and work with us humans, a quality that many interpret as a desire to win over their owners. It makes sense why this breed is a top Obedience competitor and excels at so many different activities. German Shepherds served as Red Cross dogs, rescuers, guard dogs, messengers, and sentries in World War One, displaying their courage on the battlefield alongside their German soldier counterparts. Some even carried ammunition! It is believed that they do that too to make sense of the commands we give. A German Shepherd Dog most commonly has anywhere between six and ten puppies in one litter, with the average being eight. The mother will often have her first litter at age two and then another every year after that until she is about seven years old. There is no way to predict the exact amount, but there are a number of factors that can affect how many puppies a female GSD will have in a litter, such as the age of the parents, the number of previous litters, health, and diet. I will elaborate on these in the sections down below. In theory, GSDs do not experience menopause and can carry on reproducing until they die. Like other dogs, they experience two heat cycles a year, and each cycle lasts between six and eight months. Just because they can mate twice a year does not mean they should. German Shepherds should never be bred more than four to six times in their lifetime and should never be mated more than once a year. This is to guarantee that it can be spayed and continue to have a good life after retirement. Something else to note is the fact that there are countries that legally limit the number of times a dog can be bred in its lifetime, and that number is usually 4 to 6 times. In the US, the American Kennel Club AKC does not accept registrations for dams that are bred over the age of 12 and under 8 months, and sires that are over the age of 12 and under 7 months. Age of the dam In general, as a dam matures, the size of her litter shrinks. That does not mean that you breed your dog as young as possible though. They need time to reach maturity and that usually means waiting till they are around 2 years of age. Once your GSD breeds again after the first two litters, you should plan to have one or two extra puppies since, oddly enough, the first couple of litters are often smaller than the succeeding litters. I should also emphasize that breeding a dog after the age of eight is not advised because it is too late to have puppies and may result in health problems for both the mother and the puppies. If possible, you should stop reproducing your dog much before that and have it spayed, as this would improve its health in general. Occasionally, breeders will utilize artificial insemination to aid in breeding elderly males. The simple fact is that a weak or sickly mother will give birth to a poor puppy. For instance, if the mother is overweight, she can have joint problems and, like a human mother, make labor and delivery more difficult. In order to prevent obesity, which will cause unnecessary problems, avoid overfeeding your dog. The best diet for a pregnant dog is one that is wholesome, balanced, and palatable. Size of dog Despite the fact that German Shepherds are a large dog breed, there are size variations between them too. A larger female GSD might give birth to more puppies than a smaller one. She will probably have a sizable first litter if she was born into a sizable litter herself. On the other hand, if your girl herself was born in a small litter, you can probably expect that she will have a small first litter. Type of breeding Given how easily it could become complicated, this is actually a subject that is best left for another essay. In reality, however, the process of reproduction can also have a significant impact on the number of puppies. For instance, when inbreeding is prevalent, the quality of a litter may be affected. In this case, the litter will be smaller, which will also affect the health of the puppies by lowering their life expectancy and raising their risk of acquiring genetic defects. The closer the relationships between the dogs become, the more likely it is that these issues will arise. Linebreeding , on the other hand, aims to maintain sufficient genetic diversity while preserving the best genes from a bloodline, making it frequently a safer method of dog breeding. Time of breeding It is said that a dam is more likely to have a larger litter size the closer she is to ovulation. This is defined as the period after the estrogen period when the Luteinizing hormone triggers ovulation. Unfortunately, I have not been able to find any studies supporting this theory, so at this point, I would say this factor is probably not that significant. Despite the fact that GSDs are technically able to start reproducing once they reach their first heat cycle, this behavior is typically discouraged. The first heat cycle usually occurs when the dog is 6 months old, which is far too young to begin reproducing. In order to give your dog enough time to develop sexually and put on weight and size, it is advised to wait until she is at least in her second heat cycle. In fact, the majority of ethical breeders will wait until that 2 years old before breeding them since a dog will have passed all required medical checks by that time. Most female GSDs go through their first heat cycle between the ages of 9 and 12 months, common for larger dog breeds. A useful rule of thumb is that it will go into heat at about the same age that its mother did. Bloody discharge, receptivity to male dogs, agitated behavior, and many other symptoms can be signs of a dog in heat. Health A healthy German shepherd will produce many healthy puppies compared to an unhealthy one. Always take your GSD to a vet clinic to confirm that she is in a healthy state. This is because the larger ones have a bigger carrying capacity. Diet Diet plays a crucial role in influencing the size of the litter of a GSD. Feed her a balanced diet rather than only kibble throughout. Age German shepherds are more fertile between the ages of two to three years. If she gets older than that age, she is less likely to deliver a large litter. Individual Genetic Factors If a German shepherd delivers a large first litter the chances are that she will do the same in the second and the third litter. Gestation period for a GSD Their pregnancies take around 64 days which is a little more than other dogs. This is influenced by their bigger size. What to Expect of a Pregnant German Shepherd Change in Appetite The appetite might increase or decrease depending on the stage of pregnancy. She can show signs of morning sickness like vomiting. In case of a reduced appetite, you should try to feed her her favorite meal. Decrease in Activity If your GSD feels exhausted most of the time, she will be taking a nap more than usual. If your dog likes sleeping a lot, this sign might go unnoticed. Unless you have confirmed that she is pregnant, sleeping a lot should be seen as a red flag especially for active dogs. Behavior Change Behavior change will depend on an individual dog. Some German shepherds will seek extra attention and will be around you most of the time, while others will like isolation and will be hostile whenever you get closer to them. Her abdomen will enlarge, though this is among the last signs of pregnancy. This should not worry you as she will be back to her normal size once she delivers. The nipples might get dark red in color. Other times the milk might leak in the late stage of pregnancy. Frequent Urination A female German shepherd can increase the no of times she urinates during pregnancy. Sometimes it can be territory marking. She can pee anywhere, in the living room, the seat, or in the corner of a room. Nesting Behavior During the last stage of pregnancy, she will start preparing a place for the expected puppies. She will shred anything from blankets, newspapers, or clothes and keep them in her nest. Proper Feeding Feed your expectant German shepherd a balanced diet. Buy her the best dog food you can afford. It is advisable to increase the quantity of food you feed her. Instead of giving her a lot of food at once, divide the food into smaller portions and give it to her many times. This is to ensure that that the mother and the unborn puppies are healthy. Give Her space Due to hormonal changes, your dog will have mood swings. If she is not willing to eat or play do not compel her. Just give her space to be herself. Whelping Box A whelping box is set on the last stage of German shepherd pregnancy. It is a safe and comfortable place equipped with all the necessities needed for safe delivery. The place should be noise-free. Bottom Line German shepherds are caring parents. In rare cases, German shepherds eat their newborns. Be watchful to avoid such instances. Related Posts:. Puppies If your German Shepherd is pregnant or you are planning on breeding you may be wondering how many puppies can a German Shepherd have. The amount of puppies each German Shepherd has will vary on many different factors. This article will answer dive into the factors to help you better predict the number of puppies your GSD will have. Generally, you can expect a German Shepherd to have between 5 and 8 puppies per litter. However, German Shepherds have had litters as large as 14 and as small as only 1. There are many factors that contribute to the size of the litter. A German Shepherd can have puppies twice a year. Large dogs like German Shepherds go into heat around every 6 months. During their heat is when they are capable of becoming pregnant. A normal heat cycle lasts between two and four weeks long. Thus, if you breeders or individuals who are looking to breed their GSD track their heat timing and plan to have them mate during their heat. German Shepherds are pregnant for nine weeks on average. Factors That Affect German Shepherd Littler Size Although it is normal for a German Shepherd to have between five and eight puppies a litter, there are many factors that can increase or decrease the litter size. The most common factors are below: The size of the female dog The size of the dog has a big impact of how many puppies they can carry. Although German Shepherds are considered to be a large dog breed some female German Shepherds are larger than others. A female GSD that is larger will be able to carry more pups than a smaller one. Inbreeding Another factor that can contribute to litter size is inbreeding. A pregnancy that is the result of inbreeding will generally produce less puppies than one that is not. Accordingly, if you want to increase your GSD litter size make sure not to bred a female with a male that is related. The age of female The age of the female German Shepherds also plays a role in their potential litter size. Older German Shepherds will generally have smaller litters. The prime age to breed a GSD is between 2 and 5 years of age. You should not breed an elderly GSD. Just like with human males, the sperm count of male German Shepherds will decrease as they age. This decrease can make it harder for them to get a female pregnant and can also impact the litter size if they do get a female GSD pregnant. Health of the female Another factor that is important is the overall health of the female German Shepherd. In order for any dog to produce a healthy plentiful litter of puppies the dog carrying the pups has to be in prime health. Leading up to pregnancy your dog should be fed a high-quality diet, and during pregnancy a GSD will require a diet in that a certain amount of protein, fat and carbohydrates to ensure a health pregnancy. Additionally, pregnant German Shepherds can sometimes need dietary supplements if they are not getting the appropriate nutrients through their diet. Conclusion There are many factors that impact how many puppies German Shepherds can have. Most commonly German Shepherds will have between five and eight puppies, but age, health, and inbreeding can cause a GSD to bear a smaller litter. Breeders who are looking to increase litter size will need to make sure that all those controllable factors are in line and let nature do the rest. How many puppies do German shepherds have in their first litter? April 27, We all know that German shepherd is an intelligent dog and quite active in all his areas. But apart from his intelligence, he is the most fun-loving dog. And I also found that this is the only breed of dog which is so versatile, he can be your family dog, a guard dog, a military dog, a police dog, a search and rescue dog and a herding dog as well. I can say that this is the most versatile dog. Pregnancy and litters of German shepherd dog The bodyweight of a female German shepherd is around 30kgs and height are between 20 to 24 inches and this is a bodyweight for the healthy pregnancy of a German shepherd dog. German shepherd dog becomes a wonderful mother and she has a huge number of litters in her pregnancy. This is no fixed numbers of puppies in the German shepherd litter and it can vary from 1 to 15 puppies. Usually, a female German shepherd dog has 8 puppies in her first litters. A Female German shepherd has two litters in a year and this started from an early age and continues up to the age of 8 which means that she can have 14 litters in her entire lifetime. Factors affecting the size of litters.

If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All of them are well-known in the state as ethical breeders whose top priority is producing healthy and happy puppies for loving families. Of course, you might get lucky and stumble upon a great, ethical breeder on your first try. However, we do recommend you take this process seriously and have done extensive research before choosing a breeder. In fact, some Labradoodle breeders in this guide offer a three-year health guarantee! Health warranties should cover any serious genetic conditions that the parents have been tested for. Additionally, you might want to check if a breeder is recommended by Gooddog. In addition to that, you can always ask around your friends and family members about their own experiences with specific Labradoodle breeders in the area. For more in-depth information on this topic, we recommend you check out our article on How To Choose A Responsible Breeder. All of the pups come from health screened backgrounds and their parents have been cleared for genetic problems. Although their goal is to breed hypoallergenic and low-shedding Doods, they occasionally have scruffy pups who might shed some hair. What Makes This Breeder Unique? As the Doodle Ranch is a family breeder, all of their dogs are full-fledged members of the family. She doesn't shed at all and has an extremely nice, soft coat. Her temperament is outstanding and she gets along great with our old lab and loves kids - she was truly a great pick and we couldn't be happier with her. We're thinking she'll probably end up around 60 because she just weighed in at 52 at her last vet visit and she still has a lot of filling out to do. Paul Michigan Hi Karri- just a little update on Jet. Since picking him up on Thursday, he has been the perfect puppy. He has only had one accident in the house, sleeps through the night, only waking once to go outside, he is crate training quickly, and has been on road trips to Spring Lake and as far as Up North Cadillac.He is a little cuddle bug and is beginning to play a lot and becoming more independent. I absolutely love this little guy. Thanks for breeding such great pups! She really helped make the transition of my new puppy to my home a breeze. I was able to meet and visit with my puppy for the first time at 4 weeks old and it was love at first site. What a beautiful boy, with a brown curly coat that feels like silk. We were already bonding at this visit and it was pure bliss. I anxiously waited while he grew old enough to bring him home, all the while in contact with Karri as she answered any questions I may have had and also gave me updates. The day finally came where I was to bring him home, Lance was now 9 weeks old and when we reunited he was so excited as if he recognized me and this just melted my heart. What a pure joy he is. Lance also loves to snuggle which is my favorite. He met and visited with my children, grandchildren and their dogs and cat on several occasions, who all love him to pieces. He plays nice with them all. He is a big part of our family now and is adjusting so nicely. Sir Lancelot is the best gift I have ever given myself! I look forward to our future together. Thank you Rozey K9 Farm! We are experienced Labradoodle breeders with 6 years of working with Australian Labradoodles. Our puppies are non-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them not just a family pet but a perfect addition to any family. Quality - At Michigan Labradoodles, we have the best team! Our dogs , are members of our family—they are all descendants of experienced selective family- based Labradoodle breeders in the business. Our business is centered around our family, including our dogs—you can always expect an exceptional experience with our family based company. We are a recognized ALAA breeder, our goal is to breed our wonderful Australian Labradoodles to provide you with an excellent addition to your family. Service - Honesty is a foundation of our family that stretches far beyond our business. We understand that it takes a lot of trust to buy a puppy online. At Michigan Labradoodles, we are committed to making this a fun and memorable experience for you and your family. When you buy a labradoodle from us you can expect constant communication through the puppy adoption process. While our labradoodle puppies are born in Michigan, we provide delivery service anywhere in the US. We provide updates through our Facebook and Instagram page and email variety of forms, including detailed descriptions, pictures, and videos. Why Authentic Australian Labradoodles? Consistent - Our dogs and their puppies are consistent, they are descendants of a multigenerational breed. The pedigree is true back eight plus generations, breeding Authentic Australian Labradoodles with the same great qualities of their breed. This gives us the ability to closely predict the size, shape and color of your puppy. On top of that we breed for excellence and closely adhere to the ALAA standard. They were originally bread as service dogs and therapy companions with an allergy friendly coat dating back to the 's. Coat - Our Australian Labradoodles all possess a soft fleece coat that has been developed over generations - a quality that you will only get with experienced dog breeders. It provides the allergy friendly coat qualities of the poodle, without sacrificing the amazing soft to the touch feel you will love. Temperament - Originally the Authentic Australian Labradoodle was bred as the ideal therapy dog. They interact well with adults and their playful personality makes them a fun addition to families with children. They are a great mix of playfulness and cuddly. The organization promotes responsible dog companionship for labradoodles for sale in Michigan and the United States by cataloging helpful information about the breeds making it easier to buy a dog online by offering networking services to breeders and owners. The organization protects our breed from inhumane puppy mills. This status recognizes our commitment as a breeder to maintaining a high health standard for our dogs, as well as our recurring investment in health testing of our breeding dogs. It assures potential adopters that our litters have come from the healthiest parents possible along, with a strong level of health guarantees that can be maintained. Thank you for your interest in this wonderful breed here at South Mitten Australian Labradoodles! Our labradoodles are allergy-friendly, meet rigorous health standards and have wonderful temperaments, making them the perfect addition to families of all shapes and sizes. Located in southern Michigan, our dogs are raised in our home as cherished and spoiled members of our family! Our puppies are given the utmost care and researched-based attention and stimulation right from the start. This ensures you are not just getting a puppy of impeccable bloodlines, but one that has an optimal start and a superior advantage. We strive to produce healthy well-socialized puppies from multi-generational lines with amazing temperaments. South Mitten Labradoodles follow the strict health guidelines and strong ethics of the Australian Labradoodle Club we belong to. We specialize in the true Australian Labradoodle with wonderful coats and temperaments with bloodlines originating from Tegan Park and Rutland Manor in Australia. This is a different dog and usually a different temperament than the Australian Labradoodles. True Australian Labradoodles average generations of labradoodles back in their pedigree that all originate from either Rutland Manor, Tegan Park, or Sunset Hills in Australia. We strive for nothing less than excellence in breeding and raising our precious puppies. We love and are devoted to this very special breed. Why do we believe that certified Australian Labradoodles are the ultimate breed? You are getting the best of the best! Virtually Non-Shedding Greatest ambition is to be with "their people" Incredibly intelligent and easy to train Loyal Low to no odor even when wet Comical and endearing. They were bred to get a less allergic and less aggressive breed. It was mostly achieved, but some exceptions exist. These curly balls of fur have become quite popular today for having a warm temperament and adaptability. Properly bred Labradoodles prove to be the best company, if not the best guard dogs. A lot of households with children prefer having a Labradoodle in the USA. Features Labradoodles are an easy-to-go breed with a life span of years. They adapt quickly but can be hyper-energetic. They are available in various sizes and colors with good characteristics. One should always opt for a trusted and ethical breeder to get the healthiest dog. Labradoodles have these basic features. Appearance A standard Labradoodle is inches tall, while the medium one is inches tall, and the miniature Labradoodle is inches tall. They generally have long, wavy hair, making them look like little teddy bears. They can be found in a combination of chocolate, red, gold, black, and cream colors. Weight The weight varies for each dog, but there is a broad range for each size of Labradoodle available. The standard Labradoodle weighs anywhere between pounds, the medium Labradoodle weighs between pounds, and the Miniature Labradoodle weighs between pounds. Personality Labradoodles are one of the friendliest breeds you can ever find. They are loyal and have a warm temperament. Full of energy, these bundles of joy like surrounding people all the time. They adapt to the living conditions well and can be left alone for some time. Labradoodles are an intelligent and calm breed and with proper training. Training and grooming Labradoodles of all types are easy to train and groom. They require regular grooming and exercise. They are both hot and cold weather tolerant and trained for better tolerance. Based on the proportion of characteristics of both the breeds required, the various types of Labradoodles bred are: It is the original Labradoodle. In addition to being a Labradoodle, it has another characteristic of the pure breed. F2 Labradoodle F2 is the second-generation Labradoodle. A cross between two F1 Labradoodles gives F2 Labradoodle. F2B Labradoodle It is almost .F3 Labradoodle Also called the multi-gen Labradoodle, it is the third or more generation Labradoodle. Why Labradoodle? Labradoodles are not only intelligent and active. If you want more reasons to get yourself Labradoodle puppies in Michigan, here are other features that make them a good choice. Less shedding: The deliberate mix with a Poodle makes a Labradoodle shed lower than the standard breeds. The choice for novices: Labradoodles are easy to train and quickly adapt to their surroundings, making them a good choice for new learners. Although it is not a difficult procedure, their energy levels might make it difficult sometimes. Some tips below might help take care of a Labradoodle. Exercise Labradoodles require minutes of exercise every day. Their wanderlust makes them require regular walks. If in a small apartment, it is necessary to take them outside in parks or gardens to keep them happy and healthy. Socialization Early socialization is a pompous activity with a Labradoodle. It means keeping them around lots of people. This helps them become friendlier, and they pick up recognizable traits. Grooming Labradoodles require grooming, like brushing, combing, and bathing regularly. They have a great liking to water, so it is easy to groom them. Generally, getting professional grooming kits is a good option. Family Environment It becomes imperative to keep the Labradoodle inside with the family. They are sensitive creatures and cannot sleep outside. Any comfy place near the bed or in the living room works well with the breed. Final Words With its warm temperament, loyal and adaptable nature, Labradoodle is a perfect fit for company, even on tours and travels. Michigan provides numerous options to choose from, but as a matter of concern, most of the dogs may not have a healthy lifestyle in which they are raised. To find good Labradoodle puppies in Michigan for your family, you must trust only credible breeders. You should also be aware while looking out for dogs from mills as they may not be healthy. The article familiarizes readers with the 6 best Labradoodle breeders in Michigan MI. So, ensure you choose from the best breeders to raise a healthy and active Labradoodle that fits into your family fully! These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products.

One look and an instant calm will probably wash over you. Stress simply melts away. Because Golden Retrievers are notoriously loyal and obedient. They can look silly with their big goofy grins. Or they can look stoic and wise beyond their years with their striking, deep brown eyes. CutenessOverload Everything they do is adorable Just watching your pup go from an adorable average of 10 pounds right when you get them at 8 weeks old to a sizable 70 pounds at the year mark is cuter than anything you can imagine. Or falling asleep in your lap. Or busting your pup discreetly chewing on your brand new pair of sneakers in their new closet lair is the cutest. There are too many cute things! Everything will be adorable and glee-inducing if done by a Golden Retriever pup — even the behaviors that, by all logic, should annoy you to no end. This is a good thing because a puppy this adorable is definitely going to be a popular one. Golden Retriever puppies make friends with kids , adults, and other animals while keeping their trademark smiles on their faces. They are so friendly, in fact, that they may not be the best bet when looking for guard dogs. A Golden will usually greet any stranger, including during a break-in, with a welcoming smile on their face. But they will love you best Again, the loyalty of a Golden Retriever pup cannot be stressed enough; it is strong. At the end of the day, your athletic, big-pawed, adventurous, silly, and loving Golden pup will only have eyes for you. Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue. They're one of the most popular dog breeds in America, and there's no surprise why. Besides being smart, active dogs, they're also gorgeous and oh so photogenic. It's no wonder goldens are some of the biggest pet influencers filling our feeds! Gus He's a runner, he's a track star! No seriously, Gus crushes the competition in agility courses. He especially loves dock diving and has even earned his Dock Elite title. What a good boy. Hinckley Parks It seriously can't get any cuter than this. Hinckley Parks' baby brother Teddy loves to snuggle in all his soft golden fur, and we can't blame him. It's no wonder golden retrievers are one of the best family pets in America: they're great with kids! But this one with Jaxson and Sawyer actually turned out adorable! The only thing that seems to be missing from the party are some birthday treats.Margo Who doesn't love splashing around in the water on a hot summer day? Swimming is one of the best ways for dogs to get exercise, and golden retrievers are natural at it. Plus, Margo's coat is absolutely glowing in the sunshine—how photogenic! Maggie Maggie's glasses make her look to be one smart cookie—because she probably is! Golden retrievers are one of the smartest dog breeds. She's serving sophistication, and we're here for it. Arrowood Family What's better than a golden? Five goldens! Sage, Waverly, Tori, Jimmie, and baby Presley are the definition of family goals. I mean, how often can you get five pups to look at the camera? Thor As long as the camera's off, the boss won't suspect a thing, right? After watching us all struggle through WFH life for a year, our dogs are sure going to miss us when we return to the office. Or maybe they'll be like Thor the golden retriever and replace us altogether. Louie Talk about lifegoals! Nothing feels better than a car ride with the windows down and the wind blowing through your hair fur. Krembo Uh, hello, tongue! Krembo's letting it all hang out and we can't blame him. If only we could reach through the screen and boop that nose. And also have us craving some snacks. We could all use a little frolic through a flower field some days, but we'll have to live vicariously through Lola for now. Henry Golden retrievers make wonderful service animals , and Henry proves that they can look good while doing so. He deserves all the pets in the world—but only once he's off the clock. Drake Cue the "awwwws" because this is one of the cutest dogs we've ever seen. His smile tells us all we need to know: he's definitely one of the happiest golden retrievers in the world. Was this page helpful? Christina Donnelly is a small animal expert focusing on dogs and writer with over 12 years of experience in animal welfare. In fact, golden retrievers have snagged the third spot for most popular dogs in the United States for the last several years! These pooches are on the larger side females range between 55 and 70 pounds, while males weigh in between 65 and 75 pounds and require lots of exercise, which may make some families shy away. But don't let their size—or high energy—deter you. Golden retrievers are highly intelligent, easy to train compared to other breeds of dogs , and incredibly friendly. Whether you're already a golden puppy parent or considering adding one to the family, read on to learn some fun facts and see some seriously cute photos! One even surmises that goldens are descendants of Russian circus dogs! These alternate theories were debunked, however, when the personal records of Lord Tweedmouth of Inverness, Scotland were made public. Lord Tweedmouth was an avid waterfowl hunter who wanted to breed a dog with some serious bird retrieving skills. So, in , he bred a yellow retriever named Nous with a liver-colored Tweed Water Spaniel named Belle. The result? A pack of puppies with the exact hunting skills he was looking for, which he dubbed golden retrievers. Golden retrievers were later brought to North America—sometime during the s—where they became hugely popular for their beautiful looks and sweet personalities. Then, in , they were officially recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club. Continue to 2 of 9 below. They can range from a very light, snowy white, to a yellow-gold, to a dark, coppery red. No matter the color of their coat, however, it's important to never cut your golden retriever's hair—doing so can put her at risk of skin cancer, among other health issues. Their coats are made up of two layers—the long, silky, waterproof outercoat and soft, warming undercoat—and act as insulators against all types of weather. So, if you think to trim your golden's coat in the summer to keep it cool, think again! It'll be much cooler and its skin will be protected from the sun with its coat intact. Continue to 3 of 9 below. Bred to fetch waterfowl, golden retrievers love a good swim session but would be just as happy with long walks, games of fetch, or even agility games. Aim for about one hour of exercise each day, but keep your dog's age and activity levels in mind—you may have to adjust accordingly. Continue to 4 of 9 below. If taken to a rescue site, for example, they can quickly learn how to perform search and rescues to help those in need. In addition to their smarts, golden retrievers' downright sweet demeanors make them the perfect pick for therapy dogs. They can bring a lot of comforts—and joy—to people who have experienced traumatic events, are living in hospitals, or are stressed out during college exams. Continue to 5 of 9 below. Their love of food can cause health problems like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease , so it's important to feed your golden the right amount of food for her weight, age, and activity level. Not sure how much is right for your dog? Talk to your vet about a healthy diet. And take it easy on the treats! It's true that goldens love to eat, but they like to carry non-food items in their mouths, too. Their mouthy nature makes everyday stuff such as sticks, shoes, or even the remote control a highly prized possession. Because golden retrievers have very gentle mouths, challenges such as the golden retriever egg challenge—in which a golden is tasked with holding an uncooked egg in its mouth without breaking it—have popped up all over the web. Continue to 6 of 9 below. Tons of major movies, such as the "Air Bud" series, "Homeward Bound," "A Dog's Purpose," and even thrillers such as "Poltergeist" and "Friday the 13th" have goldens in the credit roll. What's more? There are a few golden retrievers in presidential history, too. Presidents Ronald Reagan and Gerald Ford had goldens during their presidencies. Golden retrievers are often considered the all-American dogs, so it makes sense, right? Continue to 7 of 9 below. Todd, the sweet golden pictured here, is one of those puppy heroes. During their hike, Paula nearly stepped on a rattlesnake—and when the snake lunged at her, Todd jumped in front of her to protect her. Although Todd was bitten on the nose and had severe swelling in his face, he's expected to make a full recovery. Because of his heroic deed, the internet has hailed Todd as a very, very good boy. And believe it or not, Todd has found a way to be an even better boy: He has a GoFundMe page to help other heroic doggies who have suffered from the same injuries. Continue to 8 of 9 below. Even in their senior years, it's not uncommon for older goldens to keep up with their puppy counterparts. Continue to 9 of 9 below. And for good reason! Not only are they adorable, but they prove goldens are some of the sweetest puppers around, too. I've photographed many families along with their beloved dog, often a Golden. I've had numerous Golden Retrievers in my training classes over the years, whether they be reds, English Cremes or the beautiful blonde that we so typically think of when we think of a Golden Retriever. Goldens hail from Scotland originally and are known as a hard-working breed, often employed as service animals and therapy dogs. They're also known for their voracious appetites, young-at-heart personalities and their penchant for carrying things in their mouths particularly when excited. Goldens are intelligent, athletic dogs, and are exceptional competitors in dog sports like obedience, agility, dock diving and more. Golden Retrievers gorgeous coats and perennially smiling face make them a dream to photograph, especially during their little butterball puppy stage. When Moana's that's "mow-ah-nah" dog mom contacted me for cute little puppy pics, of course I said "Yes" right after I squealed with delight and we quickly secured a session on the calendar before she got any bigger! The sun was shining, the flowers were in bloom and Moana romped and played and we caught it all. At the viewing and ordering appointment, Brenda had a hard time narrowing down her favorites because Moana's just that cute, but we eventually got there. She decided on ordering two plush blankets one for her and one for Moana's bed along with a digital negative package which is presented in a handmade reclaimed barn wood box with a metal print on the cover and a 5x7 print of each image inside along with a USB drive with all the high resolution digital image files. Doggy Daddy: Tucker I was recently contacted by the Creed family to take their family portraits and they requested that I take a few pet portraits of their very special family member, Tucker. It was only later when Moana's mom shared her Christmas mini session photo of Moana with them see below , that the Creeds asked if those were taken by Penny Whistle Photography. Brenda contacted me afterward to say "You just photographed Moana's daddy". Small world indeed and now I know where Moana gets her good looks! Tracy Allard of Penny Whistle Photography is a Certified Professional Photographer with the organization Professional Photographers of America; a designation held by fewer than 2, photographers nationwide and a hallmark of consistency, technical skill, artistry and professionalism. Tracy offers special services to local Dallas - Fort Worth dog and cat breeders, creating unique images for their websites, social media and marketing purposes. Contact her to find out more about this offering.

In the first half of the twentieth century, German cavalry officer Max von Stephanitz, created the German Shepherd Dog using a variety of German sheepdogs as his foundation stock. Initially, color was not considered as long as the dog demonstrated working ability. During the late 30's, however, the white color fell into disfavor. There were, however, always breeders who appreciated the beauty of the white dogs and who continued to breed them. Because of their exclusion from most German Shepherd Dog breeding programs, the whites rather quickly evolved into a distinct type, and eventually into a separate breed. Character The White Shepherd has a distinct personality marked by self-confidence. The White Shepherd is poised, but when the situation demands, is eager and alert, ready to serve in any capacity. The White Shepherd is highly intelligent, energetic, hard working, curious, and loyal. The character of the White Shepherd is gentler and mellower than that of the German Shepherd Dog, but when necessary, he is very willing and capable to protect his family. Temperament White Shepherds demonstrate both herding and protective instincts. The White Shepherd will attempt to perform the task of herding on anything and everything that moves. With those he knows, the White Shepherd is open and friendly. With strangers, he is observant and cautious but not apprehensive. The White Shepherd thrives on human interaction from their family and does not like to be left alone for extended periods of time. They are playful, enthusiastic and eager to please. Because of their intense loyalty and love of children they make outstanding family dogs. Care The White Shepherd sheds bits of hair constantly with seasonal heavy shedding. They require daily brushing to minimize loose hair. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary; over bathing can cause skin irritation from oil depletion. Check ears and trim nails regularly. White Shepherds may be prone to such health issues as elbow and hip dysplasia, bloat, allergies, and digestive problems. Coat The White Shepherd has a weather-resistant double coat. The outer coat can be short or long and is dense and straight. The undercoat is short, thick, and fine in texture. At the neck, the coat may be slightly longer and heavier, particularly in males. The hair on the back of the legs is slightly longer than on the front. The coat on the rump and underside of the tail is longer and thicker than the body coat. The head and ears are covered with a smooth, somewhat softer hair while the hair covering the legs and paws has a harsher texture. This breed continuously sheds with seasonal heavy shedding. Training The White Shepherd requires early socialization and obedience training. They will not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. This breed is obedient, eager to please and quick to learn. Training must be done with respect, firmness, fairness, reward, and consistency. Activity This breed is happiest when given a job to do. They require daily exercise and enjoy leashed walks, family play sessions, and a large safely fenced area to romp and run freely in. Some may do okay in an apartment or condominium dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise, stimulation, and attention. However, white-coated German Shepherds were removed from the breed standard in so these pale-coated dogs could no longer be registered with the club. The outline of the White Shepherd is made up of smooth curves rather than angles. Gender differences are readily apparent. Working dogs are not to be penalized under any conditions for scars or blemishes that are due to occupational injuries. The White Shepherd has a distinct personality marked by self-confidence. The White Shepherd is poised, but when the situation demands, is eager and alert, ready to serve in any capacity. White Shepherds demonstrate both herding and protective instincts. With those he knows, the White Shepherd is open and friendly. With strangers, he is observant and may be somewhat aloof but not apprehensive. Timidity in a mature dog or aggressive behavior is not typical of this breed and should be severely penalized. The organization go on to add that Echo Dogs provide them with a safe, secure foster home, where they receive necessary veterinary care and behavioral training and match them with families that are committed to providing a safe, loving home environment for their canine family member. Other then that if you are looking for a breeder make sure you do some research. I have grown up with the standard colour German Shepherd my entire 26 years of life and when I got my first White German Shepherd I did notice a slight difference. I made sure to do my research on the breed, what the dog needs. I do not recommend getting any type of German Shepherd if you are not ready for the hard work they require. They are very hard work sometimes and very stubborn but also so so rewarding. Be smart about the dog you choose to bring home and make sure their personality matches your lifestyle. Alyssa explained roughly how much she paid for her White German Shepherd called Lumi. The cost of White Shepherds can vary quite a bit, especially when taking location into consideration. Other factors to consider are exercise which could be a pro or a con. Will you have enough time to give your White German Shepherd sufficient exercise or will you need the help of a dog walker. Do you work at an office? Anything Else To Consider? You could always start your search for a White German Shepherd by visiting a local rescue organization or finding a dedicated White German Shepherd rescue such as Echo Dogs. Temperament: Loyal, intelligent, protective, and energetic Coat: Double-coated Color: White or cream in color Long coat is more common A brief history of the White German Shepherd The White German Shepherd is a breed mentioned repeatedly in literature, where it dates back to before the birth of Jesus Christ. It was first mentioned by the Roman historian, Marcus Terentius in BC, who described the dog as an excellent dog for shepherds. Their white coat blended in with the school of sheep and makes it hard for wolves and coyotes to distinguish it. Their coat is either in white or cream. They are double-coated with the undercoat being dense and fine in texture, and the outer coat being thick and straight. This double coat keeps him warm and protected from the elements. The White German Shepherds have large erect ears and their eyes are either dark brown or black in color. Their noses are black as a puppy and gradually turn pink when they reach adulthood, while some remain black. The recessive gene that make them white The gene that makes the White German Shepherd white is a recessive gene. A white pup only occurs when both parents carry the recessive gene which makes them white. If two non-white dogs with recessive genes produce a litter, they too could have a small number of white pups, but only if the parent both carry the recessive gene. Temperament The White German Shepherds are said to be more sociable and calmer. They can make a great family pet, especially good with kids. The White German Shepherds are also known to be very affectionate with and protective of their families. They are very sociable, meaning they are not afraid to meet new people, dogs, or other animals. Like other German Shepherds, they also suffer from Elbow and Hip Dysplasia more frequently than other breeds of dogs. Yet, these are complications that are common in large dogs. During WWII, the White German Shepherds were blamed for all problems the colored German Shepherds were suffering from aggressive behavior, diseases, light-skinned — which was deemed as the consequence of too much inbreeding. But this is not true. Today, science and breeding history have proven that the white recessive gene masks the actual color of the dog, making them appear white, and brings along no health problems: in other words, the gene which causes white does not itself cause any other defect. They are otherwise genetically identical to colored German Shepherds. Further Questions 1. Is the White German Shepherd rare? A white pup only occurs when both parents carry the recessive gene, which makes them white. Given their rarity, White German Shepherd puppies are more expensive than colored ones. Although proven to be genetically identical to colored German Shepherds, the White German Shepherd is recognized as a separate breed. And there is no scientific proof showing white German Shepherds have poorer health or temperament than colored GSDs. Yet, the White German Shepherds do face the same health issues as the colored GSDs, the major concern being hip and elbow dysplasia. More on the White German Shepherd. If you are contemplating making the white German Shepherd part of your family, you may wonder whether they are a mix or purebred. White German Shepherds are purebred. They are the progeny of the first German Shepherd bred in Germany in the late s and developed to herd sheep and other livestock. Often, herders preferred the white coat, as it was easy to recognize them from the darker European wolves. They were not bred to be companion animals; instead, they were bred to be working dogs. Their olfactory scent, intellect, work ethic, strength, bravery, versatility, loyalty, and speed made them ideal farm dogs. They were responsible for not only herding but defending flocks from predators. The German Shepherd breed quickly grew in popularity before the s and spread to other countries. It is said that the white-coated German Shepherd was bred specifically by the kennels of the then Queen of Hapsburg, Alsace-Lorraine, Austria, as she wanted them to match the white horses that pulled her carriage. Sadly, the purebred white German Shepherd began to be considered a flaw by the Nazi regime in the s, who saw the white coat as an undesirable characteristic and blamed it for causing coat paling across all colors and diseases. They were subsequently excluded from breeding and disqualified from the breed standard. These white-coated dogs have descendants who can trace their lineage back to the white GSDs of the early s. Many myths exist about white-coated German Shepherds and the gene that determines their coat color. When some people see them, they think they are an albino. But are they? White German Shepherds are not albino. Albinos lack all pigment, whereas white German Shepherds have black noses, black pigment around their mouths, black paw pads, and brown eyes. Their eye rims and nails also have dark skin. The white gene is recessive and is only responsible for coat color. Although the albino can exist in German Shepherds, it is extremely rare. This genetic mutation causes a complete absence of pigmentation. Most albino dogs will have skin that appears pink around their eyes, giving the appearance of pink eyes when their eyes will usually be blue in color. You will also be able to spot the pink nose easily. What Causes a White German Shepherd? German Shepherds with all-white coats have always been present in litters. However, now that you know they are not albinos, what exactly causes their beautiful white coats? The gene is only related to coat color and has nothing to do with health or temperament. The easiest way to explain it is that the white gene is a recessive gene that works independently of all other color genes. If a dog has two copies of that gene switched on, the white hides the color. To guarantee an all-white litter, two white GSDs will need to be bred. Are White German Shepherds Rare? The discrimination against the white German Shepherd by Nazi Germany quickly spread to breeders elsewhere. Breeders also wrongly believed they were inferior and had a genetic fault. White German Shepherds are rarer than the colored variety as only two white German Shepherds are guaranteed to produce all-white puppies. However, they are not too rare, and if two non-whites both have the white recessive gene, a small percentage of the litter may be white. A reputable and experienced breeder will confidently breed two white German Shepherds to produce a litter of purebred, fluffy white German Shepherd puppies, as long as the demand is there. The main purpose of the American Kennel Club is to maintain a pedigree registry of purebred dogs. However, there is often confusion around the white German Shepherd, albeit purebred. The confusion is that white dogs are disqualified from the conformation ring, but they can still participate in herding, tracking, and obedience. The official breed standard prefers strong, rich colors. Although the UK Kennel Club recognizes the white German Shepherd, they state they are highly undesirable for conformation. This is where things start to get a little complicated! Allow me to elaborate… Advances in science proved that the white recessive gene did not cause albinoism. Scientists also proved that the white German Shepherd was not accountable for any other health issues or the paling of color-coated dogs. In the late s and s, supporters of the white German Shepherd Dog began to form their own breed clubs and registries. So theoretically speaking, the white German Shepherd and the White Shepherd are now considered different breeds recognized by different organizations with separate breed standards: The white German Shepherd is recognized by the American Kennel Club although it is disqualified from showing and the UK Kennel Club. In North America, opinions about whether the purebred white German Shepherd should be considered a different breed from the White Shepherd are still divided. Apart from the color of their fur, the white German Shepherd Dog looks almost identical to any other breed variety. White German Shepherd puppies do not change color. The same goes for black German Shepherds, whose color is also caused by a recessive gene. If pups are born all black, they will remain all black. The white German Shepherd is truly a stunning-looking dog, and often heads will turn to look at its gorgeous coat and features. White German Shepherds have the same appearance as other varieties, apart from their all-white coats. They are medium-large sized with a muscular and athletic build. The GSD is double-coated, having a low-set bushy tail. A striking feature is their erect ears, with a noble head and a long muzzle. Fully grown white German Shepherd males are typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while females are generally 22 to 24 inches tall. When fully grown, males weigh 66—88 lbs 30—40 kg , and females weigh 49—71 lbs 22—32 kg. However, remember that each dog is unique, and sizes can vary. For example, my female is very tall and weighs 88lbs 40kg. The white German Shepherd has a double-coated, weather-resistant coat that is either medium or long in length. The undercoat is thick, and the outer coat has coarse, straight, or slightly wavy hairs that lie close to the body. White German Shepherds are good family dogs sharing the same temperament as the colored variety. They are intelligent, protective, loyal, affectionate, and easy to train. They will get along with children, other dogs, and even cats if introduced to them when young and properly trained. While the white German Shepherd makes a good family dog, they are high-energy, and you need to have lots of time and enthusiasm to socialize, exercise, and train them. Nonetheless, they are excellent with children and other family pets, especially if raised with them. The breed is keen to please its owners and enjoys having a job to do. This makes them enjoyable and easy to train. Basic obedience training should begin at a young age, preferably around eight weeks old, when you first bring the pup into your home. This is due to their undying love and loyalty. They need to be a part of the family and are prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. White German Shepherds, like all varieties, are very active — exercise is essential to keep them out of mischief. They need at least two hours of regular physical activity every day. This should include various activities besides walking, such as hiking, off-leash running, flyball, agility, frisbee, and fetch. Mental stimulation is also essential, which includes playing games and having interactive or puzzle toys. This toy will keep your doggo entertained for hours and gets thousands of positive reviews. Without regular exercise and interaction, German Shepherds will display unwanted behavior such as chewing, biting, scratching, digging, whining, or barking. They can live outside but prefer to be inside with their family. Although they can do okay in a small house or apartment, a house with a yard is preferred, where they can run and burn off some energy. Allow me to share my experience; Willow is my first dog and is fantastic for all the family. Are White German Shepherds Protective? German Shepherds are often used in the police, military, search and rescue, and service or therapy dogs due to their versatility, bravery, loyalty, boundless energy, and easy trainability. But do they make good guard dogs, and are they protective? White German Shepherds are protective due to their natural guarding instincts. When faced with strangers, they can become nervous or suspicious and watch over their family, especially children. Early socialization and training are important to prevent any over-aggressiveness. Remember, they were originally bred to herd and protect livestock, so protecting their family is an instinctive characteristic of the breed. Are White German Shepherds Aggressive? There is a range of myths and misunderstandings that surround the GSD, no matter their color. In particular, many of these are based on fear, and culture or are caused due to inadequately trained dogs. This may cause you to wonder whether white German Shepherds are aggressive, especially if you want to raise one with your family. White German Shepherds are not aggressive if they are socialized early and are well-trained. They can become aggressive if provoked or mistreated. Since the GSD is often used for jobs that require them to be aggressive, it seems they have developed a reputation for being aggressive. They are large, athletic, and muscular dogs often used as guard dogs or in the police and military due to these characteristics and their high intelligence and protective nature. White German Shepherds can be trained to be aggressive towards strangers or certain individuals. However, a well-raised and socialized white German Shepherd has no reason to become aggressive. From someone that worked in law enforcement for almost 30 years and has experience with the breed, I can honestly say I never once saw an aggressive dog — except when commanded to be aggressive in the right situation. As long as you socialize and train your young pup, he will gain the trust and experience he needs with all new people and other dogs. This will allow him to react calmly and confidently to most situations he will encounter. Training a White German Shepherd is not any different from training other varieties of German Shepherds. White German Shepherds have the same temperament, intelligence, and trainability as other German Shepherd varieties. Here are some steps to help you train your White German Shepherd: Start with basic obedience training: Begin with basic commands like sit, stay, come, and heel. Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise to encourage good behavior. Socialize your White German Shepherd: Expose your dog to different people, animals, and environments to help them become well-adjusted and confident. This can help prevent behavior problems like aggression and anxiety. Use positive reinforcement: Reward your White German Shepherd for good behavior with treats, praise, and playtime. Be consistent: Use the same commands and training techniques every time you work with your White German Shepherd. This will help them understand what is expected of them and prevent confusion. Use training aids: Consider using training aids like clickers, leashes, and collars to help reinforce good behavior and make training easier. Practice regularly: Consistent practice is key to successful training. Remember, training your White German Shepherd is a lifelong process. So, how much does a white German Shepherd cost on average? I obtained this price from the average of 4 breeders I contacted. Prices vary depending on various factors such as breeder reputation, demand, location, bloodline, litter size, and whether full breeding rights are included. These are the white German Shepherd breeders I contacted to get the prices of current litters. Some breeders will charge more if you want your pup to have AKC full breeding rights. Less - The White Shepherd is a medium-sized, well-balanced, muscular dog, slightly longer than tall, with a medium length, pure white coat, erect ears, and a low-set natural tail that normally reaches to the hock and is carried in a slight curve like a saber. The outline of the White Shepherd is made up of smooth curves rather than angles. Gender differences are readily apparent. Working dogs are not to be penalized under any conditions for scars or blemishes that are due to occupational injuries. The White Shepherd has a distinct personality marked by self-confidence. The breed is poised, but when the situation demands, they are eager, alert and ready to serve in any capacity. White Shepherds demonstrate both herding and protective instincts. They enjoy running, playing fetch or any activity with their human family. This is a joyful, active, intelligent and easy to train working dog with the ability to adapt and integrate to all kinds of social events and situations. Timidity in a mature dog or aggressive behavior is not typical of this breed. White Shepherds are very loyal and tend to be especially protective of the young of various species. With their playful and curious personalities, they make wonderful companions although some do have the tendency toward being quite vocal by exhibiting whining, grunting, moaning and sometimes howling. In the first half of the twentieth century, German cavalry officer Max von Stephanitz, created the German Shepherd Dog using a variety of German sheepdogs as his foundation stock. Initially, color was not considered as long as the dog demonstrated working ability. During the late 30s, however, the white color fell into disfavor. There were, however, always breeders who appreciated the beauty of the white dogs and who continued to breed them. Because of their exclusion from most German Shepherd Dog breeding programs, the whites rather quickly evolved into a distinct type, and eventually into a separate breed. Black and Silver Brown German Shepherds can have a variety of different coat types as well. Their coats may be short, dense and thick, fluffy, or long. Pure white, solid blue, and spotted German Shepherds are not considered purebred. If you are interested in adopting a White German Shepherd, you should think about what you want it to look like aesthetically. The White Shepherd is a mid-sized, muscular dog that is tall with a medium rating for length. Their ears are normally erect, and their coat is often pure white, although they may be spotted. The color of a White Shepherd ranges from light cream to a light biscuit tan, although the United Kennel Club suggests that pure white is the ideal color. White Shepherds have a weather-resistant double coat that features a close-lying and straight outer coat, coupled with a short, thick and fine undercoat. White German Shepherds can be traced back to Germany, as they share the same bloodline as common shepherds. Historically, German Shepherds were typically white or black and tan. White German Shepherds are different from standard German Shepherds in only one way, apart from their color. White German Shepherds are known to have longer, stiffer hair than standard German Shepherds. White Shepherds are white due to a recessive gene in their DNA. This is similar to the Black German Shepherd, as both have a unique recessive coat color gene. White Shepherds are simply German Shepherds that have a rare recessive gene. Therefore, it is possible for standard German Shepherds to give birth to White Shepherds. This is where White Shepherds originated. Although, it is important to note that the only way to breed an entirely solid litter of White Shepherds is by breeding two adult White Shepherds. On the other hand, if a White Shepherd is bred with a standard German Shepherd, the litter will contain a mixture of different colored puppies. The number of White Shepherds born in such a litter would depend on whether the standard German Shepherd parent holds the White Shepherd recessive gene. Interestingly enough, White Shepherds have their true color hidden, meaning that if you breed a White Shepherd with a non-white Shepherd, it is hard to determine what colors the puppies will be. White German Shepherds are not albino German Shepherds. Although White German Shepherds can be born as albinos, this is not the standard for the breed. Albino dogs have deficient pigmentation, which causes them to have pale skin, pink eyes, and uncolored hair. White Shepherds have pink or black skin, brown eyes, solid white fur, and colored noses. Although some people associate rare dog colors with poor health and temperament, this is not the case with White Shepherds. The recessive gene that is responsible for making German Shepherds white are not tied to any known diseases or syndromes. This means that White German Shepherds are prone to the same diseases and health issues as standard German Shepherds. Many people take advantage of these rare dogs because they come at a higher cost to the people who wish to adopt them. Some breeders will breed them because of their color and not care much for their health and wellbeing. This is why finding an ethical, reliable breeder should be your foremost objective when searching for your next White German Shepherd. Finding a reputable and responsible breeder may take time, but it is worthwhile. Black German Shepherds are rarer because, in order for a Black German Shepherd puppy to be born, both parents must have the recessive gene associated with solid black fur. Black German Shepherd The price is slightly lessened by the fact that two Black German Shepherds can be mated together to produce a solid litter of Black German Shepherds. If you are in the market for a Black German Shepherd, be prepared to pay more than you would for a White Shepherd or standard German Shepherd. Just make sure you choose a reputable breeder to ensure that the White Shepherd you adopt is healthy and ethically bred. Not to be confused with albino dogs, these stunning dogs have a pure white coat and a great temperament. They make excellent family pets for the right owners. You will have to go to a breeder to get your White German Shepherd puppies. A typically colored German Shepherd would be less expensive. White German Shepherds appear randomly in normal German Shepherd litters or by intentional breeding practices. The Nazis erroneously labeled the White German Shepherd as albino German Shepherds, and thus of inferior genetics, which was not true in the slightest. The breed is still the subject of some controversy, however. Despite the fact that the White German Shepherd is simply a German Shepherd who is white in color, in some circles, White German Shepherds are recognized as a separate breed from standard German Shepherds. Male dogs grow to the height of 24 to 26 inches tall and weigh approximately 65 to 85 lbs. Female German Shepherds are slightly smaller. They typically stand between 22 to 24 inches in height and weigh between 55 to 70 lbs. Both male and female German Shepherds have an expected lifespan between 9 and 13 years. White Shepherds are known for their erect ears, pale skin, a weather-resistant double coat, and a low set, natural tail. A white GSD usually has brown eyes and a black or pink nose. In both cases, for Black German Shepherds and White German Shepherds, the dog carries two copies of the recessive gene in this case, the white gene. The white recessive gene must be present in two copies in order for the White Shepherd to have a pure white coat. Temperament The stunning White German Shepherd dog has a distinct personality marked by loyalty, intelligence, and protective instincts. Similar to a standard German Shepherd, the White Shepherds are known for their extremely high levels of intelligence. They are among the smartest dog breeds in the world and do best when they have a task or job to perform. This is when their self-confidence truly shines, even from a young age. They can make an excellent guard dog! They are energetic and require regular exercise. You should plan to devote at least one hour per day to off-leash running. They are not an aggressive dog breed, though they can be trained to be. This is not a smart decision and is not recommended. Health Problems White Shepherds face the same health issues that standard German Shepherds are privy to. A responsible breeder understands the genetics of the breed as well as the best ways to care for the White German Shepherd puppies before they are adopted. You may find breeders that exclusively breed White German Shepherds. This is largely due to the fact that most dog owners want to train their dog from puppyhood and establish the dog as part of the family from their puppyhood. As such, puppy prices tend to be higher. Most breed clubs simply recognize the white coat as a color variant of a standard GSD. Therefore, you will not have to worry so much about champion bloodlines playing into the White German Shepherd price. Geographic Location Geographic location is a factor that affects the price of all dogs. Some areas are simply more expensive. You also have to factor in the possibility of flying to get your White Shepherd or having your new pup shipped to you, depending on the proximity of the breeder. This should be split over two meals 1. This may have to be modified. To understand the feeding amount and frequency of your White Shepherd, consult with your veterinarian. Most White Shepherds should have premium food. You can expect to pay more in medical costs if your White Shepherd develops any health ailments that are common to the breed, such as hip dysplasia. Still, these uniquely colored pups are generally prone to living a long and healthy life. Training Costs One of the biggest advantages of having a White Shepherd is how trainable they are! Early socialization is important for the breed in order to develop healthy social habits with other dogs. Puppy classes, which are done in a group setting, are primarily for obedience training. For private training, you can expect to pay a bit more. Miscellaneous Costs Dog walking White Shepherds demonstrate a great need for exercise. A mature dog will need at least an hour of daily exercise, preferably running off-leash. However, this may not always be possible. Hiring a dog walker is a must if you cannot provide your White Shepherd with sufficient exercise. Without releasing this energy, this muscular dog could become bored and destructive. Pet insurance For the dog lover who is worried about costly vet bills and unexpected expenses, pet insurance may be a good option. Grooming Most White German Shepherds require a moderate amount of grooming. The more often you brush your dog, the less grooming he will need. One of the unfortunate drawbacks of this purebred dog with a gorgeous coat is the presence of white hair everywhere! In fact, they can often develop separation anxiety or other anxiety disorders. The price is slightly higher as their stunning coloring is much rarer, considering it requires two copies of the white recessive gene. Related articles:. Much of their history is shared with the more traditional German Shepherd Dogs that are brown and black in color. They were predominantly used as herding dogs in northern Germany during the late s and early s. During this time, white German Shepherds occurred merely by chance. It was commonly thought that these oddly colored shepherds were weaker and less healthy. Even Adolf Hitler held strong opinions about white German Shepherds. In fact, many breeders began selectively breeding in an attempt to get more all-white GSDs. They are much rarer than their two-toned counterparts but highly sought after. Still, they are surrounded by controversy. The damage done to their reputation during World War II continues, and many German Shepherd fans still prefer the dark coats. Some farmers and ranchers use White German Shepherds to help guard their flocks. While the two breeds likely share some common ancestors, they are indeed separate breeds. The current leading thinking is that German Shepherds have a single piece of their genetic code that determines whether they will be all white, all black, or patterned like the traditional GSD. It is a recessive gene. For this reason, obtaining a White German Shepherd is no longer left up to chance. Breeders will breed a white male to a white female and will know that any offspring will be white. Breeders and buyers of White German Shepherds prefer true, snow-white coats. However, coat colors actually range from pure white to a light cream color. Unlike a dog with albinism, a White German Shepherd has grey skin under his thick double coat. According to the American Kennel Club , German Shepherds reach anywhere from 24 to 26 inches in height, with males being just slightly taller. Females can weigh anywhere from 50 to 70 pounds, while males usually weigh 65 to 90 pounds. White German Shepherds are very strong dogs with alert, erect ears. They tend to be longer than they are tall, a feature that contributes to their incredible agility. German Shepherds have long been considered some of the strongest breed of dogs. German Shepherds can also assist firefighters in rescue work. Their keen insight can also help firefighters quickly find search and rescue targets, reflecting the importance of shepherd dogs in firefighting work. Some companies have even produced incredible firefighter challenge coins featuring German Shepherds as a reminder of the dedication of these hero dogs in rescue work. Still, generally speaking, White German Shepherds are affectionate and sociable. White German Shepherds have mostly been bred for companionship for families. As such, they are usually very friendly dogs who enjoy the company of both humans and other dogs, and who are gentle with children. Many owners of White German Shepherds find that their dogs are easy to train. However, GSDs of all colors are known to be headstrong dogs. White GSDs make great family pets. German Shepherds are very loyal, and even White German Shepherds have been known to protect their family at all costs. White German Shepherds are no more aggressive than any other dog, but they are very strong. Dogs who are well socialized, respected, and treated as a valued member of the family are far less likely to exhibit any aggressive behaviors. And of course, it is very important to teach children to respect all dogs. This is a generous lifespan, and longer than many other large breeds are expected to live. White German Shepherds that live as long as 14 years will have good genetics, and will be well taken care of by its family. Those who live less than 11 years may have lower quality breeding, have common or uncommon health issues or have experienced trauma. Not only do dogs who are well taken care of live longer and happier lives, but they make better companions too! After two weeks after its final inoculations, your German Shepherd puppy will be allowed to walk on the ground outside or begin visiting friends and family. One of the best things you can do for your new puppy is to socialize him or her. Carefully introduce your new White German Shepherd to as many adults, children, and other animals as you possibly can. Dogs who are well socialized are less likely to exhibit human or dog aggression later in life. Grooming White German Shepherds can be long-haired or short-haired. Grooming your White German Shepherd is also the same process, regardless of whether your pet is long-haired or short-haired. All German Shepherd dogs have an insulating undercoat that keeps them warm in colder months. GSDs tend to shed a lot, but during the spring and summer, their shedding increases as they lose their undercoat. Brushing your White German Shepherd at least twice a week with a stiff-bristle brush or shedding tool can help with the shedding. Bathe your White German Shepherd one a month at a maximum to avoid removing essential oils in its coat. Too many baths can also lead to skin dryness and extreme irritation. If you have a long-haired White German Shepherd, you will want to invest in professional grooming more frequently. A professional groomer will also clean your GSDs ears and glands, and will trim their nails. They have a ton of energy, so it is important that GSD owners allow their dogs plenty of opportunity to work both their mind and muscles. Dogs who are not allowed a sufficient amount of exercise will find other, more destructive ways to spend their energy. Usually, these more destructive ways involve injury to household objects, the dog himself, or even humans. You will want to take your White German Shepherd for a walk or run at least once a day. Sniffing on his walk will allow your White German Shepherd to exercise his clever brain. Other ways to exercise your White German Shepherd include hiking, a day at a doggy daycare, or even swimming at a lake or in a backyard pool. Avoid feeding your White German Shepherd table scraps and other human foods. Any food you buy for your White German Shepherd should be dry. Dry food encourages teeth to form solidly, and even acts as a natural toothbrush of sorts. This scary, but still uncommon, the problem is when the airway no longer opens wide enough for the dog to properly inhale. Some studies have been done to see if there is a link between the white gene of their coat and spontaneous laryngeal paralysis, but much more research is needed before anything can be concluded. Sadly, German Shepherds of all colors are prone to some other serious health issues. Most of these issues are inheritable, and reinforce the importance of careful and thoughtful breeding. The most common health problems for White German Shepherds are hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Dysplasia is a malformation of the bone at the joint. In its mild form, it can cause some pain and limping. However, if it is allowed to worsen, it will likely lead to very painful arthritis. Other issues affecting White German Shepherds include degenerative myelopathy, heart disease, autoimmune thyroiditis, and eye disorders. Some White German Shepherd owners report skin issues as a common ailment. Fortunately, skin issues are usually treatable through a careful diet, finding alternatives to bathing swimming, for example , and vet-prescribed help. The price of a White GSD puppy will vary based on gender, eye color, breeder reputation, and of course, overall demand. A purebred German Shepherd that is pure white in color will cost more than a mixed breed, or a purebred German Shepherd that is more beige in color. It is very, very important to purchase your puppy from a reputable breeder. Reputable breeders will prioritize breeding healthier dogs. They also contribute less to the massive issue of the unwanted pet population because they breed just one to two times per year. These striking animals are known to be very loyal, and make excellent companion dogs for families with children. Though they are vulnerable to some of the same health issues as standard German Shepherds, White German Shepherds can live up to 14 years when given the right care and attention. Unfortunately, Jessup developed serious allergies to many different types of dog foods and ingredients when she was just a puppy. Meanwhile, Brody could eat seemingly anything and carry on as healthy as could be. Sarah spent hours of time researching and testing different foods and brands before finding something that worked for little Jessup. She wants Dog Food Care to simplify this experience for future dog-parents who face food allergy or tolerance issues of their own. Dog Food Care will never accept payments, bonuses, or gifts in exchange for a positive review. All Rights Reserved.