taking care of a german shepherd puppy

They thrive on human interaction and love to be involved in everything their family is doing. Miniature Poodles are quick learners and excel at obedience training. Very eager to please their people, they are a great choice for first-time dog owners. Mini Poodles are usually good with other dogs and children, but they can be a little bit reserved around strangers. With proper socialization from a young age, your Mini Poodle puppy will learn to interact well with people outside of their immediate family. Expect your new for-ever family member to have a lot of energy and need plenty of exercise. They need an outdoor walk every day to keep calm and centered. Check out this best-selling dog leash with a comfortable handle! While walks are a must, the Mini Poodle is not suited to be an outdoor dog. This breed has a long history as a circus dog, so this dog is a favorite choice for owners who want an athletic puppy who is open to learning tricks. Some Mini Poodles are territorial and highly excitable, but patient and consistent training can usually modify this behavior. For all of these reasons, finding homes for our Mini Poodle Puppies for sale is never challenging. Minatare Poodle Health Considerations The average life span of the miniature poodle is 13 — 15 years. Use ear cleaner wipes and eye wipes regularly to remove crust or discharge. All breeds of dogs should be brought in for regular vet checkups. Miniature Poodle Coat The Mini Poodle has a hypoallergenic coat which is excellent for allergy sufferers. Matting eventually causes skin irritation. If your Poodle has a long coat, you should brush out your Poodle every day. Check out this popular dog slicker brush and detangling comb that is perfect for your Mini Poodle. While Miniature Poodles are a fairly low-shedding dog breed, they still need coat care. Many Poodle owners opt for a short cut or trim to minimize grooming needs. When a shorter cut, you can reduce brush outs to a few times a week and get the coat trimmed up every weeks. Mini Poodles Puppies For Sale. Life Span Did You Know? The Poodle is one of the oldest dog breeds and was originally developed in Germany to hunt waterfowl. The Poodle may have originated in Germany, but they are much-loved by the French. So much so that the Poodle is the national dog of France. The Miniature Poodle is slightly more recent. This Mini version likely originated in France. The Mini Poodle has all of the same characteristics as a Standard Poodle; they just come in a smaller package. The Miniature Poodle is one of the smartest dog breeds. On top of their intelligence, they are also known to have a cheerful disposition and a sensitive nature. They get along great with children. Due to their small size, they can be easily injured by rough play or accidental falls that can happen with younger children. Because of this, they may be better suited to a home with older children. Younger children should be fine as long as they are taught how to properly interact with a small dog and interactions between young kids and puppies are closely supervised. Although they are considered part of the Non-Sporting Group, some facts about Miniature Poodles are that they are versatile and athletic dogs that are also quite playful. Provided they are well-socialized, they get along well with other dogs and tend to do well with strangers. They do tend to be protective of their home and can be suspicious of strangers coming up on the property. They are known to bark to alert you of strangers coming to the house. This makes them a good watchdog, but overall, they are more interested in making friends. This dog breed is highly adaptable. The Miniature Poodle does well in any type of home, including apartments, and fits in with just about any family type. They do well in most climates, but, as with many dog breeds, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because Mini Poodles are people-oriented, they do not like being left alone and will not handle being left alone for long periods of time very well. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to make sure they are not passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Miniature Poodles are highly intelligent, easy to train, and eager to please, which makes them a good fit for owners of any experience level and one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are a people-oriented breed and are sensitive to moods and tones of voice. They do not respond well to harsh training methods or harsh tones as they take it personally, get their feelings hurt, and lose respect for you. A Mini Poodle tends to respond best to consistent training that is fun and focused on positive rewards. A Mini Poodle is one of the fluffiest dog breeds and will have a curly or corded coat that can come in just about any color. Although this dog breed has a low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat, their coat still needs a lot of grooming. They need to be brushed daily to prevent tangles and matting. They should also be professionally groomed every 4 to 6 weeks to keep their coat healthy. Miniature Poodles are high-energy dogs that require a good amount of exercise each day. Daily walks plus some playtime and other activities are usually enough for them. When puppies finish growing and developing, they often enjoy games of fetch and other activities like swimming, hiking, or jogging with their favorite human. Mini Poodles also tend to be great candidates for several dog sports, like agility, tracking, obedience, retriever hunt tests, and more. Just make sure to visit the vet and get your dog cleared for these activities before you jump in. Fully-grown Miniature Poodles usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Mini Poodles generally live for years on average. The Miniature Poodle was very popular among the French nobility. Featured Miniature Poodle Article. We, more than anyone, understand that while anatomy, hair, smooth body proportions, good teeth and health are all important, it is also important that the dog has a well-rounded poodle puppies personality. For this reason we can confidently say that when you buy a Poodle puppy from us you will be receiving a suitable and well-socialized fury partner who will spend most of his or her adorable fury life with you for years to come. All our Poodle puppies interact with children, cats, and other dogs of all sizes, so they develop an extremely stable personality and they are incredibly friendly. Quality Poodle Puppies Home Quality poodle puppies stands out as the best breeder for poodle puppies around the united states. Our team are made up of the best professional puppy lovers. Our poodle are well socialize and can survive all over the united states. We have the best shipping policy when it comes to your puppy. Shipping we ship with the best companies across the united states. Why buy from us? Poodle Puppies Home is not only the best and reliable source for you puppy but also the best place you can get advice on your puppy and how to take care of them. What a wonderful dog! We enjoy absolutely every second with him. He is still a ball of pure energy, very playful, affectionate and everything you want out of a dog. Very smart too — he learnt to sit, stay, come, drop and turn all in an afternoon of mucking around at home. Loves our cat Snoek who we got a few months after we brought him home. Also loves big dogs — the bigger the better in his eyes and runs circles around them. His colouring has also turned out beautiful with just the right amount of Poodle in him. We decided to call our new puppy Ruben. We are very happy that we have him. He just gorgeous. And the family loves him. Im just sending a few pictures , the 1st is of Ruben and the other two are George : Thanks so much. Alisa Hester Sleepy time with soft cuddle beds Playtime with a large variety of toys to challenge the mind Exceptional veterinary care Carefully selected foods, vitamins, and treats Intensive routine grooming schedule including tooth brushing Loving home environment.

Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Height: 26 inches Ratio: .This should give you their height. For example, 26 inches times 0. Using the other example, .Since each dog is going to be different, you need to look at their overall body condition rather than a weight range. Fortunately, there are body conditioning charts that you can use to figure out if your German Shepherd is at their ideal weight. Just look at them from the side and from above, feeling for ribs and pelvic bones when necessary. Younger dogs will also typically be on the thin side before they fully fill out as adults. Years of line breeding has produced several distinct types of Shepherds. Show dogs are known for a sloped back in which the back legs are shorter than the front. This unnatural formation can cause back and hip problems along with an abnormal gait. German Shepherds bred for show will also be thinner than their hardworking cousins. As you can see in this picture, this is a show-bred German Shepherd with an obvious curved back and short back legs. Working dogs, on the other hand, are bred for a sturdy, straight back so they can work long hours without getting sore. They tend to be thicker than show dogs and will, therefore, weigh more, even at the same height. As you can see in this picture, this dog has a straighter back and longer back legs, so it has been bred for working. Something else I wanted to mention here is that, according to some sources, Black German Shepherds are larger than their bi-colored cousins, despite being otherwise the same. So, if you have one of these rare and beautiful creatures, you can follow the same charts that were listed above. If your German Shepherd is diagnosed by a veterinarian as underweight or overweight for their age, then the first thing you should do is ask him or her to help you figure out the underlying cause of the problem. This will determine what should be done next. Do you have a giant German Shepherd? What about a tiny one? Comment below to tell us more about it! About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. American German shepherds have straighter backs then German shepherds. If you have a german shepherd and their lineages are close to their German roots they will have that arch in their back. Final Thoughts A 3 month old German Shepherd is still fluffy and cute, but it has changed a lot in comparison to its early days. It has become pretty tall, about one foot in height, with long paws and an extreme desire to chew something. Put away all your shoes, socks, or clothes because they may suffer badly from its teeth. Instead, buy entertaining chew toys and collect all your patience. You need to take proper care of your pup and keep its immense energy under control. So, you need to know how to train your German Shepherd for a happy and healthy future. This guide will help you learn more and let your ideal doggy live a long life full of positive experiences and adventures. If you have a boy, its height will be about inches cm. Girls are a bit lower at this age — they are about inches cm tall. You can also notice the increase in weight. The 3 month old German Shepherd weight can differ depending on several factors. Males can weigh pounds kg , while females weigh pounds kg. However, they can be even smaller if they belong to a working line. The gender difference becomes apparent at this age. The weight can also depend on the diet you feed your pup. The changes in appearance also include the teething stage. At this time, your pup has all its milk teeth, so adult teeth growth starts. It will last for a few months until all the puppy teeth will be replaced. You will notice one more dramatic change. It concerns the coat. Its fluffy and fuzzy nature will disappear because the adult fur starts growing. You will see a racing stripe on the back to show that the puppy coat has started to be replaced. Your pup still has floppy ears that can stand straight from time to time. Though, you need to understand that during this period, the ears will not stand up steadily because teething needs a lot of calcium, and the ear cartilage cannot harden properly. You will see a lot of improvements and a steadier ear position in a month or so. Remember not to pat your little one on the ears or head, or you may damage the cartilage. It will last until your puppy is 6 months old and is characterized by immense energy, curiosity, and getting into trouble here and there. That is why socialization and training are so important in this period. German Shepherd puppies at this age are very energetic. Though they look more grown-up than ever, their puppy nature always gets them into trouble, so you need to remain as patient as you can to train your little one the proper behavior. Your pup may jump at people and bite them. Praise it with a treat if it can abstain from doing that. Since your 3 month old German Shepherd puppy is full of energy, it needs a lot of exercise. Keep it busy all the time, but not make it do something heavy for a long time because it may have severe negative consequences on its health. Take it for walks as often as you can. A minute walk is enough. The distance your pup can walk is up to 6 miles 9. Moreover, your doggy needs a lot of other exercises. It can be a combination of playing fetch, running, and aerobic activities. You can make it play with a rubber toy or do some strength training. Once again, one-time sessions should not be very long. If you cannot take your pup outside for a walk because it is very cold, play with it inside. It can be playing with a puzzle toy or hiding something in the house and asking your dog to find it. If you have a car, you can take your puppy on a ride to provide it with more experience. Overexercising can lead to problems with joints, so you need to be very careful. The sleeping schedule of your puppy also changes a little at this age. It is approximately hours per day. It can also wake you up at night and require playing or going potty. It is normal at this age. The fastest sleep for it is before dawn. If you hesitate about how much your German Shepherd should sleep now, or whether it needs some sleep during the daytime, you can consult your vet. Health and Care Your 12 week old German Shepherd grows fast, and it looks healthy. However, you need to be aware of possible health issues at this age to be careful about. The first thing you have to keep in mind is weighing and measuring your doggy regularly. At this point, you should also provide it with the second set of vaccinations. It includes parvovirus, parainfluenza, hepatitis, and distemper. Keep to a healthy and nutritious diet. If you have any doubts about the possibility of hereditary health conditions, get a DNA test. It is especially important if you want to prevent degenerative myelopathy. Even if your pup is healthy and merry, you need to take care of it regularly. Healthy diets, frequent walks, and enough exercise are all indisputable components of good puppy care. Remember to groom and brush your doggy just twice per week. Changing the coat to an adult one will lead to excessive shedding. Try to help your pet get rid of the fur that is not needed anymore. You can even develop a specific schedule for grooming or make an appointment with a professional if you are not sure how to do it properly. That can be a regular playdate with your dog-loving friends and their pets. Or you can help your pup meet new friends when you are walking with it in the park. Potty walks are an essential part of care. A 3 month old GSD can hold its bladder for an hour or so. That is why you need to keep an eye on it and let it eliminate whenever it is needed without unnecessary inside accidents. Your little one needs only healthy nutrition to grow strong and intelligent. Be attentive about treats. Obesity can cause other health problems with the heart, kidneys, and joints. Develop a feeding schedule and try to stick to it. If the puppy leaves some food in the bowl, take it away. Never leave the leftovers in the bowl, or your puppy will come back to them later, and it will be impossible to establish a feeding schedule. That will lead to potty accidents and digestion issues. The diet has to be rich in protein, but be sure that it does not contain too much fat. The food should also contain phosphorus, calcium, and vitamins. You can use vitamin supplements meant for German Shepherd puppies, but never opt for those that are for humans or adult dogs. The schedule is very important for your pet. If you establish it at three feeding times per day, try to keep to it. Distribute the amount of food evenly throughout all meals. Never feed your doggy immediately before going to bed. Provide it with enough water. Fresh water is essential for puppies, so the bowl full has to be around all the time. You do not need to take it away. It starts understanding what is going on around it. So, it needs proper training at this age. It should also learn how to interact with other animals and people. Obedience training is essential at this time. Your puppy may not master all of them at once because its attention span is rather short, so be patient enough to repeat them again and again. Only after you see that your pet is confident about these commands, you may continue with more complicated ones. Never punish or beat your puppy if something does not go well. Positive reinforcement is always your priority. Never forget to praise your little dog and give it treats if it has done something well. Your doggy should also know how to deal with other dogs. If you have a friend with a dog, invite them to your place or pay a visit to them with your pup. Your doggy will feel more confident if it knows how to build trust and socialize with other living beings. Training is very important during this period. So, if you have not started doing it yet, begin your training sessions immediately. Your doggy should see a leader of the pack in you, so be as persistent and confident as possible. If you have some difficulties, it is better to seek the help of an expert. You should be prepared to spend a lot of time training your pup. It may not be so easy at first, but it is certain to be rewarding. The height of your puppy changes very quickly because its intensive growth continues. How much should a 3 month old German Shepherd weight? There may be an apparent increase in weight at this age. It depends on several factors, such as hereditary options, type of line, feeding schedule, etc. On average, boys weigh pounds .Puppies from the working line can weigh less. How much should a 3 month old German Shepherd eat? Your pup should eat 2 cups of dry kibble or homemade food per day. How much does a 3 month old German Shepherd sleep? You will notice some changes in the sleep schedule of your pup. It needs less sleep, but the overall sleeping time is about hours per day, including day naps. The puppy can still wake you up at night for playing or potty. Though, this will happen more rarely. How far can a 3 month old German Shepherd walk? How much exercise should a 3 month old GSD get? The puppy needs a lot of exercise at this age. At least 30 minutes per session can help it grow smart, alert, and strong. Walking and running for about 15 minutes can be a part of this exercise. However, you can include playing games into the sessions. Final Thoughts The first thing you need to remember when you have decided that a German Shepherd is a good breed for you is to be ready for taking a huge responsibility. Be patient and positive. Never punish, shout at it, or beat it. However, you have to be consistent and demanding to let your 3 month old German Shepherd puppy feel that you are its leader, and it should follow and trust you. German Shepherds, if properly trained, socialized, and cared for, are great family dogs. That is why you need to keep the advice from this article in mind and always contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. How about some details regarding their feeding habits, behavior, medical needs, grooming regimen, and exercise requirements? In this section, you will find everything you need to know to keep them healthy and assist with things such as toilet training and teething. She will discipline them and make sure they learn to be independent. They then begin to go to the toilet independently and venture away from mom. At week 8, they play, can be housebroken, and bark when startled. The famous GSD ears will start to stand up, and you can begin leash and crate training. They must be handled and groomed and realize that human commands and dominance are the norm. During this time, the mother will nurse the pups until they are old enough to begin eating puppy mush , which is softened kibble. Allow puppies to eat as much as they like at each meal. At 6—8 weeks, their first shot from the vet is due. Smith, Shutterstock 12 weeks is a turning point for your pup. Their coordination will come on in bounds, as will their learning and social skills. They will be eager to learn but easily distracted, so have plenty of patience. If you become angry, it will stunt development if they become fearful of you. Your pup is officially into the juvenile period now. All of his puppy teeth should be developed by now and are normally very sharp. So, beware of your fingers when playing. At 12 weeks of age, puppies can start to eat three to four set meals a day with measured amounts. Purpose-made dog-approved chew toys are best, not teddy bears or old shoes. As they grow through this period between three and six months, GSD puppies are more juvenile than babies. They will be more boisterous and energetic. But on the plus side will feed easily, be more friendly with animals and people alike, and more than likely be housetrained if you have managed them correctly. They will be stubborn at this age when training and could ignore you, or not come when called. The best approach is to ignore any sassy attitude and only praise and fuss when back to being obedient. His internal organs and systems are fully developed and functioning as they should, while the skeleton is still growing. His full set of adult teeth should be present and correct. Your GSD is now becoming independent and will want to roam different areas and interact with their world on many more levels. Be aware that they could weigh 50 lbs at 6 months, so caution is needed with control and safety as they explore. He may also seemingly forget commands that he has been taught. It is best to ignore, not mollycoddle, any fearful reactions to new things to not reinforce the negative behaviors. By 6 months of age, you can reduce the feedings to three per day, now paying attention to the total calories consumed. Between the ages of 4—6 months, he will shed his puppy coat too. He might still be a bit goofy, gangly, and stubborn when it comes to training. German Shepherd females are reaching sexual maturity at this age. They may have their first estrus heat period. So, be mindful of letting them off the lead during this time if other dogs are around. At 9 months, your GSD can be tested for heartworm and treated if needs be. Speak with your vet about this for more detail. You can add small amounts of solid adult formula into the puppy food to get him used to the texture. Making it the optimal time to stimulate them as much as you can with obedience training and work activities. Your GSD should be comfortable in all situations, and with all types of company as their bond with humans should be well established. Their unique personality and quirks should be apparent and set them apart as your dog. They will have developed vocal and body language traits that you recognize and use for their needs. If male, he will be reaching sexual maturity and cocking his leg when urinating. He might also be looking to challenge dogs and humans for the title of pack leader. The key to cementing all your hard work so far is to be consistently firm with any boundaries he tries to push. By 12 months, they should be on adult formula only. German Shepherds stop growing between 2 and 3 years. This is when they fill out too. It starts to slow at around the age of 1, but he will continue to grow until he reaches maturity. During this time, they are considered to be adolescents. This is the same for their mental maturity too. This is the same for all German Shepherd types. Females tend to mature faster, both physically and mentally, than male German Shepherds. There are different stages within this time frame before maturity. And these are the neonatal stage 1—2 weeks , the transitional stage 2—4 weeks , the socialization stage 4 weeks to 3 months , the juvenile stage 3—6 months , and the adolescent stage 6 months to 2 years. Research has shown that neutering dogs can affect their growth. But how exactly? But early indications show that early neutering can increase the length of time that the bone grows. Meaning potentially taller dogs. But this also poses questions about whether this affects the joint alignment and whether it can cause any problems. And for the German Shepherd breed and his heightened propensity for hip dysplasia, this is a concern to be aware of. But waiting for full skeletal maturity also poses risks. Because neutering for females can reduce mammary cancer. If spayed before her first heat, it can eliminate the chances of this type of cancer altogether. As they will be able to offer you tailored advice for your German Shepherd. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth The dangers of growing too fast can affect their skeletal development. Conditions caused by growing too quickly are joint dysplasia and osteochondrosis. By feeding him a kibble that is designed for large-breed puppies will help control the rate at which his bones grow. This is because they have the optimum ratio of calcium and phosphorus levels in the food. So, always feed him large-breed puppy food during his developmental stage. This is most common in German Shepherds, but also in some Labrador Retrievers. It is an inherited disorder of growth hormone deficiency, and it will make the affected pooch always appear puppy-like. Growth Distinctions of Different German Shepherds. Frequently Asked Questions German Shepherds German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most popular breeds and are my absolute favorite breed. That's why I've had five in total, three boys and two girls. From their loyal and obedient personalities to their beautiful coats and markings, they bring joy to many homes, including mine. With impressive intelligence, these puppies are easy to train and make excellent companion animals. The German shepherd is a large breed, usually weighing between pounds for males and up to 75 pounds for females. Their coats require minimal grooming but will benefit from occasional brushing. German shepherds are very active dogs who love to run around; they need plenty of exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. They also enjoy activities such as agility training or nose work games where they can use their smarts! Factors Influencing Weight But what about their size? German shepherds can vary in size based on gender, age, nutrition, and because of their breeding. For example, a German working line shepherd is much more energetic than the more laid-back American show line dog. A puppy from working lines may weigh less than the average on the charts. Be sure to consider factors such as gender and environment when monitoring your pup's development. A good rule of thumb is that by eight weeks of age, a German Shepherd puppy should weigh between pounds, depending on the genetic factors mentioned above. By six months, most male puppies will weigh between 49lbs — 57lbs with an average weight of 53lbs, and a female will weigh between 44lbs — 49lbs with an average weight of 46lbs. For this reason, when consulting a weight chart for a German shepherd puppy, it's essential to understand the breed, lineage, and pedigree of the dog, as well as the sex of the dog. Our puppy weight charts are specific to German Shepherd Dogs and consider all these factors. It's an excellent tool for monitoring your pup's growth and health. These charts show the average expected weight range for male and female German shepherds at different ages, from puppies to adults. Knowing the expected range can help ensure your pup grows normally and stays within healthy boundaries. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. Our chart differs from others in that you can track your puppy's weight based on his actual weight at a point in time. Many other weight charts are either for non-specific breeds, or if they are specific to a German Shepherd, they only give you the averages and a range. While this is all useful and included in our charts, what is missing from many others is what weight your puppy will likely be based on his actual weight now. Most people bring their new puppy home at 8 weeks old 2 months. The range for a female German Shepherd puppy at that age is between lbs. As you already know your puppy's weight, you can estimate how much they are likely to weigh when older using our chart. For example, if your puppy weighs 14 lbs at 8 weeks old. To estimate how much they are likely to weigh at 6 months old, you would find that weight on the chart and follow it down to the 6-month-old row and see that she would most likely weigh 46lbs by the time she is 6 months old and 68lbs when fully grown. Of course, these are just estimates, and all puppies grow at different speeds, as will yours. Another way this chart is helpful is if, using the same example, your puppy weighs 14 lbs at 8 weeks old and then jumps to 49 lbs at 6 months old, instead of the predicted 46 lbs. In that situation, you would follow that new column down and see that she is now closer to weighing 70 lbs when fully grown. They are heavier-boned, more muscular, and have deeper chests. If you know what you're looking for, you can distinguish a male from a female German shepherd by looking at their heads, as a male is larger and have a more masculine look. Using the German Shepherd Puppy Weight Charts To use this chart, find your pup's current weight along the top and go down the left side of the chart to find his age. If he is in range, you can follow that column down to see what he will likely weigh at each age milestone. For example, if your male German Shepherd puppy weighs 18 lbs at 8 weeks old, then you would find the nearest weight at that age on the chart. In this case, it's .In this instance, he would weigh approximately .Under no circumstances should you try to adjust your dog's diet or exercise to fit in with the chart; it is merely a guide. German Shepherd Weight Chart for Female Puppies Female German shepherds, on the whole, have a much narrower head and nose and have an overall feminine look, especially around the eyes. If you know what you're looking for, you can guess whether they are male or female by looking at their face. Having said that, my girl, Ava, was very tall for a female and was often mistaken for a boy, even when she was wearing her pink collar and leash! But I still think her face was much more feminine than her brother Hudson's. This breed of dog has unique growth development. During the first three months of their life, a German Shepherd's body goes through a significant growth spurt. Typically, they can double their birth weight in the first week! At 12 weeks, you can expect your pup to weigh about pounds for a male and pounds for a female. This growth spurt will continue through five months old; by the time they're six months, you'll likely have a large, goofy puppy on your hands. After that initial growth period is over, you'll find that your German shepherd will gain weight slowly from then on out until it reaches its full adult size at around two or three years old. On average, female German Shepherds reach an adult weight of pounds, while males reach pounds. German Shepherd Puppy Height Chart German shepherds come in a range of sizes, some taller than others. It can be helpful to know the different heights of German shepherds to ensure that the one you choose fits your lifestyle and needs. When looking at a German shepherd height chart, it's essential to remember that males tend to be larger than females. Depending on where they were bred, most standard-sized male adults will stand between inches, while female adult German shepherds typically reach inches in height from paw to shoulder. Below is our height chart for German shepherd puppies you can use to estimate your puppy's height at each age milestone based on his starting or current height. It also includes the average percentage of adult height reached each age milestone. If your puppy's weight is outside the guidelines, it may be less of an issue than you think. Puppy weights can vary greatly depending on breed, genetics, and other factors included on this page. While ensuring your puppy receives proper nutrition and exercise is essential, several factors can influence their weight. One way to determine your puppy's adult weight is to check with your breeder. They can make an educated guess as to what your furry friend will weigh once they reach adulthood. A reputable breeder should have a good understanding of their dog's genetics and be able to provide insight into the typical size range of their litter. This information can give you a rough estimate of what weight you can expect for your German shepherd as they grow older. Another factor to consider when determining the adult weight of your pup is their parents' size, and again the breeder can give you much more information on this. You can also speak with your veterinarian about your puppy's overall health and development, and they may be able to provide some insight into their expected adult size. It's important to avoid becoming too fixated on your puppy's weight if they fall outside the standard guidelines. Don't worry if your puppy is a little bigger or smaller than listed here, and if you still want to determine their adult weight, you can also use the puppy weight chart for a large or giant breed dog here. Conclusion In conclusion,German Shepherds are a fantastic breed of dogs, and understanding their growth and development is essential for pet owners. Knowing the average weight and height of male and female German Shepherds can help you be better prepared for your new pup's growth. With the proper diet, exercise, and vet care, your German shepherd will be healthy and happy throughout their life. Keep in mind that these charts are only a general guide — every pup is different! A 3-month-old German Shepherd should weigh between 17 lbs - 26 lbs for a female, with an average weight of .For males, it'll be between 22 lbs and 30 lbs, with an average of 26 lbs. How much does a 5 month old German Shepherd puppy weigh? A 5-month-old puppy will weigh between 40 lbs - 49 lbs for a male with an average weight of .A female GSD puppy will weigh between 35 lbs - 44 lbs with an average of .When will my German shepherd puppy stop growing? Most German shepherd puppies continue growing until they are two or three years old. You might like these. However, there are certain breeds that are easier to train than others. Thankfully, German Shepherds fit into that category because they are very intelligent and quick learners. This includes house training , crate training , basic obedience commands as well as learning tricks. We recommend attending a puppy kindergarten class as part of your German Shepherd puppy socialization strategy. Once your pup knows their basic obedience commands, you can enroll them in Schutzhund training aka IPO. Partnership and teamwork between yourself and your dog are the basis for this type of training. Note that the Schutzhund environment is not a place for dogs with aggression issues, neither towards other dogs nor people! If they pass that initial level which includes a temperament test, they can move on to IPO 2 minimum age 19 months and IPO 3 minimum age 20 months. That said, protection dog trainers recommend starting training classes that include bitework and high jumps once your German Shepherd puppy is 12 months old. Dutch and Czech are two other languages that commands are frequently taught in. Stanley, my former long-haired GSD dog walking client, started going to Schutzhund training when he was a little over 12 months old. His owners practiced commands in German with him on a daily basis, and I remember getting a print out of his German commands as they asked me to use them on our walks as well. Lots, ha! German Shepherds need a minimum of 2 hours of physical exercise per day, but generally speaking, the more exercise you can provide your GSD with, the more they will thrive. Remember, German Shepherds are high-energy, athletic dogs bred to be active all day long, especially if they come from a working line! Physical Exercise Ideas for German Shepherds As far as physical exercise, this can be a mix of walks, runs, bike rides, fetch and playtime. This is Nala, one of my former pet sitting clients. She was crazy about frisbees and balls. One of my favorite ways of increasing the energy and calories a dog burns on a regular walk or hike is by using a doggie backpack. Mental Stimulation for German Shepherds Besides providing a good physical workout, dog backpacks also burn mental energy. As you probably know, bored dogs can quickly become destructive as they figure out ways of entertaining themselves. For example, chewing up your furniture and shoes, scratching doors, raiding your kitchen trash can or digging up your flower beds. So do yourself a favor and make sure your GSD gets plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Remember, a tired dog is a good dog, and that applies to German Shepherds as much as it does to any other dog breed! Former GSD client Remi pooped after a long walk. Bottom Line So, how big does a German Shepherd get? Well, German Shepherds are medium to large size dogs, so they can weigh anywhere between lbs. That said, the average expected weight for a male GSD is between lbs, and the average expected weight for a female GSD is between lbs. Both reach sexual maturity somewhere between months and are considered fully grown at about the 2 year mark. Keeping that in mind, your GSD breeder should be able to give you a good general idea of how big your German Shepherd puppy will grow to be! Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Barbara is a trilingual, something dog lover, e-book author, founder, copywriter, dog nutrition blogger and editor at K9sOverCoffee. Post navigation. When your German Shepherd is the ideal weight, you can feel their ribs, although they are not easily seen, and they are not covered in a layer of fat. There should be a defined waistline when your dog is viewed from above and a noticeable tummy tuck when they are viewed from the side. Underweight German Shepherds While German Shepherds are growing, they will be thinner and look gangly until they fill out in adulthood. It is sometimes recommended to keep your growing German Shepherd marginally underweight but not unhealthily thin while their joints grow and strengthen. Purina defines two levels of underweight: thin and slightly underweight. Thin: Ribs, hips, and spine are easily felt, and there is no fat covering the sides and back. There is noticeable muscle loss around shoulders and thighs, an overly pronounced waistline from the top view, and an overly pronounced tummy tuck from the side view. Slightly underweight: Ribs can be easily felt, hips and spine may be slightly visible if your German Shepherd has shorter hair, but there is no fat covering. There is an obvious waistline from above and a marked tummy tuck from the side. If your German Shepherd is underweight or thin, speak to your veterinarian. It could be that they are just growing quickly, often becoming lightly underweight after a growth spurt and then putting weight on until the next growth spurt. You may just need to change their food or feed them larger and more frequent meals. However, their low weight may indicate parasites or another underlying medical condition. Elderly German Shepherds can struggle with being underweight. This is why senior dog foods typically have a higher calorie count. Overweight German Shepherds It is important to prevent your German Shepherd from becoming overweight while they are growing. Extra weight on developing joints and muscles can cause problems. German Shepherds can also suffer from hip dysplasia, which is worsened by excess weight. Other excessive weight-related conditions include diabetes, pancreatitis, heart problems, respiratory problems, kidney disease, and arthritis. Related: German Shepherd Joint Problems: All You Need to Know Your German Shepherd is not likely to become overweight in the first 9 months of their lives because their growth rate easily matches their calorie intake. When your German Shepherd reaches 9 months, growth slows down significantly, and you may need to adjust their food quantities to account for this sudden reduction in calorie requirements. A helpful tip is to switch to low-calorie treats during this stage, especially considering training needs to intensify, and people often use treats for positive reinforcement incentives. And instead of switching to a calorie-restricted food or reducing the amount you feed your German Shepherd, speak to a veterinarian about switching from puppy food to adult food. Purina defines four levels of overweight: slightly overweight, markedly overweight, obese, and clinically obese. Slightly overweight: Ribs can be felt slightly, but there is an obvious layer of fat covering the ribcage and back. There is a slight waistline when viewed from the top, but it is not clear. There is a slight tummy tuck towards the hind legs when viewed from the side. Markedly overweight: Ribs are not easily felt, and there is an obvious layer of fat over the ribcage. There are fatty pads along the lower back and at the base of the tail, making the waistline absent when viewed from above. Obese: Ribs are difficult to feel because of the fatty layer covering them. There are significant fatty pads along the lower back and at the base of the tail, making the waistline absent when viewed from above. And the tummy bulges outward and sags slightly when viewed from the side. Clinically obese: Ribs cannot be felt under the fatty layer. There are significant fatty pads around the neck and legs, along the lower back, and at the base of the tail. The waistline is absent when viewed from above. The tummy significantly bulges and sags when viewed from the side. Miniature German Shepherds are much smaller and have completely different development requirements and problems. Final Thoughts The weight and growth charts provided in this article are designed to provide guidelines for the developmental milestones your puppy should be reaching in the first years of its life. Male German Shepherds are bigger and heavier than females, and from weeks old, these differences become apparent. Although males and females have different weight and height targets at each stage, they should hit the same percentages of their adult weight at the same age. If your puppy is slightly above or below the average weight or height at a given age, it does not mean that there is a problem. However, if your German Shepherd puppy starts to fall more and more behind, or if they miss other developmental milestones other than weight and height, it may indicate an underlying medical condition, and you will need to take your dog to see a veterinarian. Deficiencies in weight can compromise growth and the general condition of your German Shepherd, and excess weight can cause joint injury and other serious medical conditions. Keep all of these things in mind and be observant of your growing pup and how you approach feeding and training in accordance. By doing this, you will ensure that you have a happy, healthy, and well-adjusted German Shepherd for many years to come!

Boxers make great pets for both families and individuals, with their energetic and loyal traits. Adopting a puppy requires a lot of time and research to find a breeder that is best for you. While there are many to choose from, how do you make a decision? To give you some options, here are 5 Boxer Breeders in Florida to help you find your new furry friend and loyal companion. They are based in the Northeast Ocala area of Florida. Our goal at Shoquest is to produce puppies of the highest quality that will bring a lifetime of joy to their families. For more information, you can send them an email at shoquestboxers gmail. Our Boxers are raised inside with us and are part of our family. We do not have a kennel. The puppies are also raised inside, along with my children, and are well socialized. They come pre-spoiled. Their puppies are socialized from the day they are born and until they are at least 8 weeks of age. They will have their tails docked, dew claws removed, have their 1st set of vaccinations, a Florida Health Certificate and their AKC registration form. To learn more and get in touch, you can visit their website here. We could not be happier with our puppy and the process itself from start to finish. We will definitely be using the JCS Boxers again for our next puppy. They follow a meticulous diet for their puppies, with all of it starting with the health of the mom. Additionally, they plan their litters responsibly. Currently, their next litter is for January and you can view their gallery of puppies on their website here. In order to stay in touch about upcoming litters or to answer any questions you may have, you can send them an email at info jcsboxers. They are located in Central Florida and have been in business since .Boxers are our passion and ours are part of our family, living beside us inside our house because that is where they belong. We have owned Boxers as far back as I can remember. They are a very special breed but they are not for everyone. They require little grooming but they do need daily exercise. Boxers are very intelligent and loving.They are also very playful and have plenty of energy. They are great with children but need proper early training. They are all AKC, will have their tails docked, dew claws removed, vaccinations and health certificates before you take them home. And, they require an application before placing their puppies with you as they want to make sure they are going to loving, forever families. To get in touch about their next litter, you can contact them on their website here. They pride themselves on having a business that focuses on American production including all of the food and everything they use to raise their puppies. We believe we have achieved this with our boxers. We have spent time and research on choosing all our boxers. Boxers are born to show off and they do plenty of that. Their puppies are a part of their family, they have areas to exercise and play and have the best quality care. Currently, they have one boxer from their litter that is available. To keep in touch with their future litters, you can visit their puppies page here. And, to learn more or get in touch you can call them at .With the cost of veterinary bills rising each year, you could easily find yourself paying thousands out of pocket if an accident or illness were to occur. Let our team at Fursure help you get started on finding the best pet insurance policy for your furry friend. You pet will thank you! To get your pet protected and covered in just a few minutes , buy a pet insurance policy today! Join the Pack No spam. Just the very best in show products, expert pet parenting advice, and more.Read about our privacy policy. Thank you! Your submission has been received! Something went wrong while submitting the form. Introducing pet insurance that pays your vet directly. We let you keep your cash on hand, so you can focus on giving your pet the best care possible. For the complete list please see our List of Boxer Breeders page. These prices are estimates only; each seller can charge whatever they like. The main factor that may affect the price of a boxer puppy is your location within the state which could either increase or decrease the cost. Other factors include breed popularity most popular breeds are generally listed at an average price , whether or not the dog has been AKC registered such registrations often come with a fee and if shipping is included in the price. There are several questions that should always be asked when deciding on whether or not someone is reliable enough to purchase from. Look out for these warning signs: The smell of ammonia or other foul odors this means the boxers were not kept clean Dirty cages, feeds or toys The presence of rats, mice or other pests. If at any point during your visit something seems off, trust your instincts and do not buy from the breeder. In some cases, it might even be helpful to contact your local SPCA or humane society as they may have handled situations involving this particular breeder. Meeting past customers will help you get a feel for whether or not you can trust the breeder and if they produce healthy, happy dogs. If their reviews are negative, be wary of buying from this person. Your breeder should have a good relationship with a veterinarian who is familiar with their practices and the conditions the boxers are kept in. If this is the case, how can you expect them to take care of your pup? Ask to See The Health Certificates for Your Boxer Puppy If any records exist, ask to see proof of all vaccinations, deworming and other procedures listed above; if none do, be wary. For this reason, you need to ask questions and obtain proof of any conditions your puppy may have. If the breeder does not provide this information easily, move on. This will prove that your Boxer Puppy is purebred and that the breeder is authorized to breed boxers. If these documents cannot be provided, take it as a warning sign. There are several simple things you can do in order to get yourself and your house ready. A playpen or kennel is perfect. When you go to pick up your boxer puppy, there are a few things that you should bring with you. Their new environment can seem overwhelming, so give them plenty of love and reassurance during this time. The younger they are when you start, the easier it will be Older Boxers can also be trained but it will take longer and be more difficult to do so. Keep this in mind before bringing your puppy home. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. We have the answers! What is the price range for a Boxer? The price range for Boxer puppies for sale Florida can be pretty wide. Breeders consider a number of factors when putting a price tag on their precious puppies including gender, coat color, and pedigree. Browse our featured Boxer breeders Florida to get started. Will I meet only local Boxer breeders? When looking for a Boxer for sale in Florida, your initial top choices will be breeders in your city or state. Your chosen breeder can then arrange to have your puppy safely transported to an airport near you. Our vetting process is designed to keep inexperienced breeders and puppy mills out of our network. Breeders and businesses who wish to join us undergo a strict screening process where their breeding knowledge, practices, and facilities are examined. How is Florida Puppies different from other puppy websites? They are good at marketing though! What is a puppy mill like? Puppy mills are dishonest breeders who mistreat their animals and forego essential newborn puppy care to make a bigger profit. Are there any Boxer puppies available in Florida right now? We can help you find out! You can also let us know if you have a specific Boxer puppy in mind! Where are Boxer dogs originally from? Boxers have quite an interesting history that dates back to the late s. It is still up for speculation which specific breeds were crossed to create the Boxer but the list includes the German Bullenbeisser and the Bulldog. The Boxer was created to be a guard dog, a role that it took upon with great success. Today, Boxers do police work but are also popular family dogs. What can I expect from the average Boxer? Boxers are energetic, alert, even-tempered, loyal, loving, and goofy. Boxers are smart and can be trained to do almost anything but keep in mind that they mature slowly -- they are basically puppies until the age of three! As a family dog, Boxers will do anything to protect their family and they are also known to be gentle with kids. How big do Boxers get? Boxers are medium-sized working dogs that can reach a weight of 70 pounds. Male Boxers usually stand at inches at the shoulder while female boxers can reach up to .They are muscular, sturdy, and quite quick. How does Florida Puppies work? Florida Puppies is a network of ethical breeders and businesses and your best source for finding Boxer puppies in Florida. Boxers's Available!

These dogs combine the French Bulldog and Chow Chow breeds and are relatively new. Both separately have quite different qualities, but they result in a particular dog when put together. His stature is small, with a short nose, a totally friendly personality, and puffy hair. The French Bulldog is super recognizable worldwide as its popularity is increasing. Although the Chow Chow is no longer recognized, it is known that the combination of both breeds would be interesting. Individual appearance General French Bulldog standards dictate that they are small, muscular, and even stable pets. Their weight ranges between 16 and 28 pounds, so some sites rate them as Toys. Chow Chows are not sports pets, and they have a broadhead that could be considered quite large. Its snout is short, and the eyes are a little hollow. The ears are small. They are compact dogs that are inches tall and weigh 45 to 85 pounds. One of the most outstanding characteristics of the Chow Chow is the color of their tongue that can be black-blue. The appearance of the mixture A French Chow has a high chance of coming out small and with a short tail. In some cases, it can be slightly curly. Typically the dog is 14 inches tall and weighs 30 to 50 pounds. Their head will be large and square along with a short muzzle, but it will not be as wide as a French Bulldog. The ears will also likely be bat-like and with fairly straight hocks in comparison. It is also possible that the ears do not stand up until a certain age, apart from the fact that the tongues may appear blue or black. It is rare to see white hybrids. Fortunately, many of these difficulties have a solution; you should only consult a specialist as soon as possible. Brachiocephalic syndrome This anomaly is characterized by causing breathing difficulties in animals with brachycephalics. Chow Chows and French Bulldogs have shortened snouts, which is the main reason for this syndrome. The chances of the hybrid inheriting the short muzzle are very great and related. You have to help the dog avoid making excessive efforts and completely avoiding the heat. Urinary stones are very serious, especially for pets, as they cause severe pain and other difficulties. They may also require surgical intervention, which is quite important. Not to mention the strict diet that the dog must follow afterward. This means that the chances of the hybrid contracting this disease are too great. Statistically mixed breeds such as the French Chow can have luxating patella by inheritance. In short, the kneecap would have trouble sliding properly while the dog is in motion. Eye problems Chow Chows may pass some eye difficulties to their hybrid offspring, some more important than others. Inward rolling eyelid problems, premature cataracts, and even glaucoma. Tail Problems The tails are more important than it seems since, in French Bulldogs, these are directly related to rectal problems. Fecal incontinence or hernia are pretty common things. French Bulldogs used to have longer tails, but that changed with selective shortening. The previous size is preferred since these were not related to difficulties, especially those with a log shape. The hybrid will most likely come out with a short but thick coat, which has many benefits. Something highly recommended is to constantly brush the canine so that the entire interior layer is manageable. Also, maintaining constant care in this area will prevent loose hairs, so there will be much less mess at home. Some dogs are not made for training, and therefore caution and moderation must be exercised. General characteristics Small breeds are not as easy to train as would be expected. Chow Chows are super independent and require respect if you want to be heard by them or receive any cooperation. You have to be very patient because the repetitions will surely be constant, even with skillful owners. The French Bulldog has the quality that they are very stubborn at times, apart from stubborn. This should be short in time, and the hours saved can be used for socialization and the development of obedience. How to care for your French bulldog food mix? There are many attitudes that dogs can acquire as time goes by, with care being a fundamental part of development. Regardless of the circumstances, several things should be considered for a French Chow, respectively. Maintain a balanced diet. Adequate and constant personal hygiene. Regular visits to the vet. Moderate but daily exercise, ideal are short walks. They are house dogs; you have to consider that. Avoiding heat is ideal. Many other things can be done to keep your French Chow pet in perfect condition. Care is a very important factor that cannot go unnoticed during canine rearing. Their well-being is a responsibility that the owners take conscientiously; taking charge is essential. You may also like:. Should a French Bulldog Mix take after their Frenchie parent, they will be a small companion breed that bonds closely with their families. They tend to have an energetic, playful personality and love nothing more than being with their favorite humans. French Bulldogs tend to be friendly, playful, and affectionate dogs that get along with just about everyone. They tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets. They will even warm up quickly to strangers as long as they have been properly socialized. If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you should be able to expect the same from a French Bulldog Mix. You can also meet the mother in person to see what her temperament is like and the behavior she is modeling for the puppies. The breeder should have started some training and socialization, but it is up to you to continue to train and socialize a puppy once you get them home. Frenchies are highly adaptable dogs. They do well in apartments as well as larger homes. However, as a brachycephalic breed, they are extra sensitive to heat and also sensitive to the cold. They also do not like being left alone for long periods of time. If the other parent breed is similar, then you can expect a Frenchie Mix to also be a highly adaptable dog. The other parent will introduce their own traits and some potential quirks, so you do want to ask the breeder about them. They could inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, or they could inherit some or all of them. They can also be prone to allergies, have sensitive skin, and also a sensitive stomach. Good breeding practices will make a huge difference. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. Although French Bulldogs can sometimes be stubborn, they are eager to please and tend to be easy to train. As long as training is consistent and focused on positive praise and reward, they can be a good fit for owners of all experience levels. If the other parent breed is also easy to train, then you can expect a French Bulldog Mix to be highly trainable as well. Regardless of owner experience, there are many benefits of puppy training classes. A mixed-breed dog can inherit a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is a mix of both. You will also need to clean their facial wrinkles. Weekly ear checks with cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, a Frenchie Mix is more prone to developing dental diseases later in life. This makes good, consistent dental care for dogs even more important for them. Daily brushing with a dog-friendly toothpaste or using an enzyme toothpaste paired with cleanings at the vet when needed is ideal. Frenchies are known couch potato dogs that are happy to lay back, relax, and cuddle with you. Daily walks plus some playtime are usually enough for this affectionate little dog. Even though they like to relax, they also like to play and will be energetic when they do. They can also be athletic and compete in dog sports. As a brachycephalic breed, you do need to be careful of overexertion and overheating. But, there are plenty of ways to safely exercise flat-faced dogs to make sure your French Bulldog Mix gets enough exercise. If the other parent breed is also a low-energy breed, then you can expect something similar from a Frenchie Mix. If the other parent breed requires more activity, then you will need to be prepared for the potential of a higher energy dog. Fully-grown Frenchies usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother, so make sure you ask the breeder about them. This can give you some idea of what size to expect in a fully-grown French Bulldog Mix. French Bulldogs generally live for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar average life span in a French Bulldog Mix. Featured French Bulldog Mix Article. October 20, My Chow Chows and French Bulldogs I am always so happy to share updates on my pets - my dogs, cats, canaries, horses, donkeys, pony, chickens, geese, pigeons, and the peafowl. They bring such joy to me and everyone here at my Bedford, New York farm. I currently have four dogs. My dogs love all the extra time I spend at home. They love being in the kitchen with me, especially when I'm cooking and baking - they're always ready for whatever "falls their way. And they love to stop and play in the soft grass of the enclosed pool area. Here are some of the latest photos, enjoy. Here they are in the courtyard behind my kitchen. This breed is known for its wrinkly, smushed face and bat-like ears. They are half siblings and both grand-dogs of my late Champion G. The Chow Chow is an ancient breed of northern Chinese origin. As an all-purpose dog of China, it was used for hunting, herding, pulling, and protection. Because this area is completely fenced, I often take them here to run and play… And roll… And roll… Creme Brulee loves to roll. One reason dogs roll may be to rub their scent off on an area, marking it as theirs. Dogs may also be trying to scratch an itch when they roll in grass. And others just like how it feels. Here is Bete Noire walking over to check out the action. Bete Noire is called a brindle French Bulldog. Brindling mixes black hairs with brown or fawn. Brindle-colored dogs look a bit like canine tigers. It is so important to provide dogs with ample exercise to keep them physically and mentally fit. I make sure my dogs get good long walks, and lots of time to play with each other outdoors. He and Qin pronounced chin also enjoy wrestling with each other. This is all safe dog play behavior. Chows should be sturdy and squarely built. Its body should be compact, and heavy boned. Empress Qin is already a Champion show dog — she is a beautiful Chow. I know Han will also do very well in the show ring. The French Bulldog is a small, active, and muscular dog with heavy bone and smooth coat. These two will try to catch anything in the air. Have you seen the videos of them on my Instagram page MarthaStewart48? And she is always ready for a belly rub after she is done jumping. Here she is taking a little rest before running around again. Frenchies, as they are affectionately called, are very playful. They also have calm, gentle natures. My dogs are all accustomed to the the many sounds on a working farm, but like all dogs, have a very sharp sense of hearing — I wonder what caught their attention. Han loves to rest on the stone pavers. Chows have dense coats, so the stone feels cool. Chows can weigh anywhere from 45 to 60 pounds. Their coats can be rough or smooth and come in red, black, blue, cinnamon, or cream. Both Qin and Han are red rough-coated Chow Chows. What is most unique and distinctive of a true Chow Chow is its blue-black tongue. The Chow should have a large head with a broad, flat skull, a short, deep muzzle, and very expressive eyes. Qin chose the grass for a rest — also soft and cool. The Chow has a lovely thick mane, with small rounded ears, giving it the appearance of a lion. Are you getting tired, Bete Noire and Creme Brulee? The bright, affectionate Frenchie is a very charming breed. Once inside, all the dogs are brushed, their paws are washed, and their coats are inspected for ticks.

Lifespan Sociability German Shepherds have long been the first choice as working and service dogs because they are highly devoted, loyal, and courageous animals. They are generally easy to train by experienced owners but need a firm hand and consistent routine to train successfully. While this is possible for novice owners, they will present more of a challenge than some other breeds. Before buying a German Shepherd, you need to take into consideration the massive responsibility of owning one of these animals. They are highly protective of their owners, which can lead to aggressive and territorial behavior at times, and they have a powerful prey drive. These dogs were bred for and have long been a working breed and do best with a specific job to do. It will take a great deal of time, patience, and dedication to look after a dog of this caliber, so you need to understand that a German Shepherd is not the kind of dog that can be left at home alone for long periods. This will quickly lead to destructive and even aggressive behavior. With the power and working history of this breed, good training and socialization are essential with owning a German Shepherd. They are one of the most popular breeds in the United States Behind only the family-friendly Labrador Retriever, the German Shepherd is the second most popular breed in the U. German Shepherds Go By Two Names Most dog owners know them simply as German Shepherds, but their name has changed over the years, and they are still referred to by different names in other countries. Many people confuse the two as different breeds, but they are the same animal. Sable, tan, and black color variations are among the most common and recognizable coats, but other recognized colors include black and red, black and cream, grey, and even blue. German Shepherds are known for being mildly aloof and independent dogs, and this is often mistaken for aggression or unpredictable behavior, but in truth, these dogs are rarely aggressive when trained properly. While they are reserved and aloof toward new faces and do not tend to make friends easily, once they get to know you, they are extremely friendly and loyal animals. They make great family dogs because they are loyal, gentle, and friendly with their owners. They are well known for being highly protective and powerful animals, making them ideal guard dogs, and they are typically only aggressive when provoked or protecting their family. They are supremely intelligent animals that can be trained to do almost any job, leading to their wide use in service and military applications. These dogs thrive off of having a specific job to do, especially with their owners, so they are happiest when close to their human family. Indeed, close companionship is a must with the breed, and they will not do well being left alone for extended periods. They will swiftly become bored and frustrated, and this can lead to destructive behavior and even aggression if left unchecked. If you are away from home frequently, the German Shepherd is not the breed for you. They are generally gentle and affectionate with children, although they may accidentally knock over small kids while playing. Of course, good training and socialization are essential for this powerful breed. Other dogs are not usually an issue, but they will need to be socialized early to get along with the family cat! Make sure that their food has an animal-based protein as the first listed ingredient and that the food is free from filler ingredients like wheat, corn, and soy. We recommend substituting this dry food with canned wet food or lean meats and organ meats to add variety and give an amino acid and protein boost. Large breeds like the German Shepherd Sable are prone to joint issues, so you need to be careful of overfeeding them. Avoid giving them too many treats or table scraps, and give them a diet rich in healthy oils to aid their joint health. This includes agility sports and training, as well as puzzle toys and games. These large dogs will need at least 1—2 hours of intensive exercise every day to prevent boredom and destructive behavior, although more is better. They are great companions if you are an outdoor enthusiast and will adore joining you on runs, hikes, and cycling. They have a natural love for water and will enjoy an occasional swim too. One point to keep in mind is to be careful about over-exercising German Shepherds as puppies. While these dogs are active and agile, during the first year, they are rapidly growing, and too much exercise can be harmful to their skeletal development and may cause joint issues later. While they can be aloof and independently-minded at times, making training difficult for novice owners, they typically love the process, and training this breed is usually relatively easy. They should be trained from a young age, preferably from the day that you bring them home, as this will mitigate any bad habit formation that may potentially occur. Positive reinforcement training methods are highly recommended for this powerful breed, as too much harsh scolding or reprimands may lead to an unresponsive dog at best or aggressive behavior at worst. This method uses praise and rewards for a job well done, and this promotes good behavior in the future rather than punishment for bad behavior. Socialization is an often-overlooked aspect of training but is vital to the success of properly training your dog. Socialization with other dogs from an early age will lead to less distraction while in public places, and your Shepherd will be far more likely to follow commands with other dogs around. Also, we recommend engaging in training sessions after a short exercise session, as your pooch will be less distracted, more attentive, and thus, more likely to learn. Even with daily brushing, there is no way around having a ton of hair around your home, so you may need to invest in a pet vacuum cleaner before bringing one of these pooches home! That said, brushing your Shepherd a minimum of two or three times a week will help a great deal, especially when they are shedding heavily. This will remove any dead hair and keep their coat smooth and healthy. Avoid using human soaps or shampoos, as this can strip their coats of natural oils; stick to water or special pet shampoos. Other than that, they need a toenail trimming once a month or so, depending on their activity levels, and regular teeth brushing will stop any tartar build-up and potential dental issues. Soft, safe chew toys and high-quality kibble can also help keep their teeth plaque-free, but you should still brush their teeth regularly. Most responsible breeders will make sure your dog is free from most of the genetic problems that can affect these dogs before selling them, but of course, there is no real definitive way to avoid some of these issues. Being such a large breed, German Shepherds are prone to joint issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as a progressive degeneration of the spinal cord called degenerative myelopathy. This disease may eventually progress to the point where your dog has trouble walking due to the lameness in their back legs, and unfortunately, most of the time, there is no treatment. Gastric dilatation-volvulus, commonly known as bloat or gastric torsion, is another condition to keep an eye out for. This is common in large breeds with deep chests like the German Shepherd. The condition is caused by dogs eating large meals too quickly, causing a build-up of gas in the stomach, which then twists, cutting off blood flow. The condition is treatable but frequently results in death, as there is not much time to get to the vet. Minor Conditions. Although these dogs look different to other German Shepherds GSD , they carry the same traits and characteristics as other variations of the German Shepherd breed and are known to be very loyal. These dogs are bred to produce the perfect working dog and German Shepherd dogs have gone on to have careers in the military, the police force and as other service dogs. They were first discovered by Von Stephanitz who spotted the German Shepherd at a dog show and decided that this breed was the perfect standard for a working dog. Horand was the first breed standard for the German Shepherd breed and was bred alongside dogs with a similar appearance to give German Shepherd litters. They are thought to have first appeared in the United States in and were recognized by the AKC in .Sable German Shepherds are, however, often more rare than other colors of German Shepherds, which can make them more expensive as puppies. The litter size for these pups will normally be 5 and 9 puppies. These dogs have a domed shape head with a long, square muzzle. They have erect ears and long necks, which sit low when running or prowling. They are a very strong breed and often are said to resemble their wolf ancestors. Coat German Shepherds will have one of two coats, either a medium coat or long coat. They are both double coats, having a more dense guard layer with a softer undercoat which helps to keep them warm when they are out as working dogs. These dogs are known to shed so they may not be the doggie for those with allergies. However, a proper grooming regime, which we will go into more detail about below, is important to reduce the amount of shedding and the amount of cleaning up! Color The sable color of the German Shepherd means that almost all their hairs will have a black tip to them, while the rest of the hair can be a different color. Normally this other color is tan, but there are a range of colors that the GSD can come in. These include white, parti, blue, liver, red and gold. They are extremely loyal and very family orientated. Because they are a working dog, they will believe that their job is to protect you as a family and are known for being alert and watchful, sometimes barking if they feel like they are in danger. Although socialization is important for a dog at any age, proper socialization for a German Shepherd will ensure they can interact with the family properly. Socialization is also important around young people. These dogs are very playful and active and love to be outside getting physical exercise. They also need a lot of mental stimulation as they are very intelligent and do not like to be left alone. If they are left alone for long periods of time they can become bored and begin to exhibit destructive behaviors, so it is important they spend most of their time with people or they are trained correctly to understand what behaviors are desirable. Lifespan The Sable German Shepherd has an average life expectancy of between 9 to 13 years. Many of the problems they are more likely to develop are the same problems that other breeds of German Shepherd deal with. The most common health problem for the German Shepherd dog breed is elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. Dysplasia is a condition that is seen in many large dogs and is a disease of a malformation of the joints. The joints can become very painful and may worsen over time causing lameness. The best way to ensure your pup is less prone to any of these conditions is to buy from a reputable breeder and to ensure you get health clearances from both parents. You should also check your dog often for any signs of these issues and take them to the vet regularly for checkups. Daily Life Now we know all about the traits and characteristics of the Sable German Shepherd, it is time to take a look at what living with one of these dogs on a day to day basis is really like. We will cover their food and diet, their exercise requirements and their grooming needs. It is recommended that you feed them a diet specially formulated for large dog breeds and you should always check the back of the dog food packet to see how much food you should be feeding your doggie based on their weight. Experts recommend that a Sable German Shepherd should be eating 20 calories per lb of body weight a day, which may come to around calories. This is around 3 cups of food. As a puppy, they should be fed three to four times a day. This is particularly important in the larger breeds as they are most predisposed to bloat, where the stomach becomes bloated and twisted and is usually fatal. These three to four meals can then be decreased to two meals a day as an adult. However, if you have a busy lifestyle then this can just be one meal a day. Their food should be healthy and nutritious. It should cover all the nutrients that a dog of this size needs, including proteins, fats and carbohydrates. High-quality dry kibble is a great option, although some dog owners opt to feed their pup raw food. Take a look at the food we recommend below. Contact Us for litters and reservations for litters. The success of Vom Banach K9 dogs out in the world, and the happiness of Vom Banach K9 owners, is due in part to the effort we make to ensure that you have the absolute right puppy for your situation, whatever it is. We literally spend hundreds of hours with our puppies from the moment they are born in our home until the time they are ready to leave for their new home with you. Whether you seek a devoted family pet, or a prospect for SAR, detection, Shutzhund, Police K9, competitive obedience and agility, or nose work, we will help select the right puppy for you. An important part of the process is speaking to you to learn about you and the dog that will best meet your needs and expectations. In advance of that conversation, please fill out the form below and click on Submit when completed. Thanks very much. Vom Banach K9 German Shepherd puppies are happy, healthy, well-socialized and confident. Our German Shepherd puppies are known for their loyalty, affection, eagerness to please, work ethic, and rich dark black sable, sable, and solid black coats. Shipping by air is fast, safe, convenient, and cost-effective. We use only airlines that have demonstrated a solemn commitment to animal travel over the last 26 years. Vom Banach K9 uses only certified airline-approved crates. For information on our current litters please Contact Us. Your browser does not support the video tag. Sep 27, Jul 8, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Are you looking for a dog with all the amazing characteristics of a German shepherd, but you also want something a bit different and special? If so, then why not consider a sable German shepherd? The sable German shepherd is not a crossbreed dog but rather a recognized variation within the breed, so the dog retains all the benefits of a purebred pup. German shepherds are one of the most popular purebred dog breeds in the United States, in part thanks to their intelligence, trainability, and intense loyalty. They are also well-loved for their sleek, noble appearance. Interestingly, sable is actually the original color of the German shepherd breed. It is the only variation of the German shepherd that has the same color as the founding member of the breed. Read on to learn everything you need to know about these attractive, intelligent, and hard-working dogs. Sable German Shepherd Appearance Sable German shepherds look just like most other German shepherd dogs, with the exception of their distinctively colored coat. The German shepherd is a large breed. You can expect the males to reach up to 26 inches tall and weigh between 75 and 95 pounds. The females are a bit smaller. Their heads are domed in shape with a long, square muzzle. They have alert, erect ears and long necks that make them seem even larger than they are. It is considered ideal for the dog to be longer than it is tall with a proportion of 10 to 8. Their bushy tail should extend out in a hook-like shape. German shepherds tend to dip their head low like a wolf when they are running or prowling, which contributes to the consensus that they look very much like the wolf ancestors of dogs. These dogs have double coats with a soft undercoat and a denser guard layer. The guard layer can be either medium or long, though the medium length is significantly more common. Most German shepherds are either tan and black or red and black. The lighter brown shade is usually their principal color, with a black face mask and black markings on their back which often look like a saddle. A variety of other color variations exist, including pure black, pure white, liver, silver, blue, panda, and, of course, sable. Sable basically means the dog has mostly lighter colored hair with a black tips, which can make the dog appear grey or mottled. In reality, the actual color combinations are more varied, and the sable pattern could be any mixture of tan, black, brown, or red. The term is mostly used in the United States. In other countries, such as Germany, these dogs are often just called grey. It has since become a popular working dog for roles such as search and rescue, police, and military due to its strength, trainability, and intelligence. The breed emerged from the s trend to try to standardize dog breeds to assist in certain jobs, such as herding sheep. Max von Stephanitz was a leading thinker in this area and was specifically looking for canine specimens that matched his ideal vision of a working dog. He found that ideal dog at a dog show in .He purchased the dog and named it Horand von Grafrath and founded the Society for German Shepherd Dogs to promote the breed and others like it. Horand, who was in fact a sable-colored German Shepherd, became the center point of a breeding program. Horand himself had 84 puppies, and extensive inbreeding was required to secure the characteristics of the breed. When the German Shepherd was imported to the United States in the early 20th century, it became popular with gangsters and bootleggers for its strength, intelligence, and intimidating appearance. It was also popular in Nazi Germany, and even Adolf Hitler loved the breed. As a result, it has gained a reputation for being a fierce, intimidating, and even dangerous breed. However, this says much more about how the dogs were used than the natural temperament of the dogs themselves. German Shepherd Temperament The color of a German shepherd makes no difference to its temperament, so you can expect a sable German shepherd to conform to the general temperament of the breed. German shepherd dogs are often described as active and self-assured. This, combined with their intelligence and eagerness to learn and please, makes them excellent working dogs. They are also highly obedient and loyal. Their extreme loyalty also extends to family situations. They will raise the alarm with their loud, deep bark if they sense danger. However, German shepherds are not naturally aggressive. This is a reputation that stems from the way that the dog has been used in the past. That said, German shepherds are often associated with severe dog bites. This is largely due to the popularity of the breed and the strength of their bite rather than any innate aggression; there are simply more of them around than many other dog breeds. Tests suggest that German Shepherds have a bite force of over 1, newtons, which is less than a Rottweiler but more than a pit bull. They tend to have a natural suspicion of strangers and like to chase smaller animals. Their intelligence and compliance means they can be trained not to display this behavior, but as an owner, you need to put in the work of training them properly and consistently. German shepherds are a very curious breed in addition to being highly intelligent, which is why they are well suited for search and rescue missions. German Shepherd Energy Level German shepherds are very playful and active dogs, so they need lots of physical exercise and mental stimulation in order to thrive. This is another reason why they often do well as working animals. Working gives them both the physical and mental stimulation to complete these challenging tasks. Pleasing their handlers is also attractive to these highly reward-oriented dogs. Ideally, German shepherds need at least 60 to 90 minutes of exercise every day, preferably spread over at least two different sessions. However, this should be slightly less when they are puppies. There is always a risk of over-exercising puppies, especially when it comes to large dog breeds. As a general rule, you should exercise a puppy daily for five minutes for every month of their age until they are an adult. German shepherds reach adulthood at around 18 months. So, for example, a six month old pup should be getting 30 minutes of exercise a day if we follow this rule, as six months times five minutes comes out to 30 minutes per day. What to know more about exercising your puppy? Read our article: How far can I walk my puppy? German shepherds will love to accompany you on adventures, such as hikes and walks, and they also love swimming. They will do well at the lake, on the beach, or even accompanying you on a boat. However, even though they are excellent swimmers, they should have a doggy life vest if you are out at sea. They will struggle in an apartment, and their large size can make navigating small apartments challenging even for these nimble dogs. Ideally, they should have a backyard where they can move around freely, especially when left at home alone. The intelligence of these dogs means they can get bored quickly. While puzzle toys, such as a Kong , can help on the occasions when you do need to leave them alone, they are likely to become stressed if they are left alone regularly. German Shepherd Health Risks German shepherds have a life expectancy of a little over 10 years. This is normal for dogs of their size, and larger dogs tend to have shorter lifespans than smaller breeds. You should not expect a sable German shepherd to be immune from these, especially since further inbreeding is often required to produce the sable color. It is common for these dogs to develop hip and elbow dysplasia , which is a developmental abnormality of the joints that can restrict movement and cause pain. This is often the result of different elements of the body growing at different speeds. The best way to prevent this is to ensure good nutrition and the right level of exercise during their crucial growing period. Even if the development of hip and elbow dysplasia does not affect the dog at a younger age, it can make them more susceptible to arthritis and other forms of joint pain when they are older. Older German shepherds often benefit from an orthopedic bed to take pressure off their joints. The breed also appears to be predisposed to degenerative myelopathy. This is a degenerative spinal cord disease that generally shows up in older dogs after about the age of seven years. If you are looking for one of these puppies specifically, you may need to go to a breeder. The sable color is relatively rare, and breeders have to control specifically for this kind of coat. As a result, you can expect to pay a bit more for a sable puppy than you would a German shepherd of any other more common colors. Are you thinking of adopting a sable German shepherd, or any German shepherd, into your family? Here are a few questions to ask yourself to determine if you and your home are a good fit for this breed. German shepherds are highly trainable and obedient, which means even first-time owners should be able to take on the challenge of training them. German shepherds need a commanding presence to keep them in check. The sad reality is that many people are also afraid of big dogs like these, and their behavior and response to them can cause serious problems. You need to feel confident to take control of your dog in charged situations. These dogs are also very active, so they will do best if they have a bit of outdoors to call their own that lets them run around a little, dig, and play. Just be sure your yard is properly and securely fenced in! German shepherds are very energetic dogs that need to be active a lot, which means you will need to be active frequently as well. As well as daily exercise, they will want to join you on weekend adventures rather than weekends on the couch catching up on Netflix. German shepherds need to spend a lot of time with their owners, as they need both companionship and intellectual stimulation. Thinking about getting a new puppy? Check out our new puppy checklist. Sable German shepherds have a coat with lighter roots and darker tips covering most of their body. The tips are usually black, which means the dog looks as though it has a greyish color. It is a natural color variation within the breed. How common are sable German shepherds? Sable German shepherds are significantly rare in comparison to the popular tan and black or red and black colors that dominate the breed. This is why a sable puppy will probably cost you more than other color variations. However, pure black German shepherds are a bit more rare. Are sable German shepherds bigger? No, sable German shepherds are not bigger than other German shepherds. The females should weigh between 55 and 75 pounds and the males 75 to 95 pounds. Look at the size of the parents to get a better feel for how big your pup is likely to get. Are German shepherds good family dogs? With the right training and socialization, German shepherds are excellent dogs for an active household. They will be loving, obedient, and protective. They are good around children, though small children should always be supervised around dogs, regardless of the breed and their level of familiarity. Accidents happen, even when children are around dogs they have grown up with and know well. What is bad about German shepherds? German shepherds tend to be suspicious of everyone, which can contribute to overly protective and territorial behavior. Proper socialization can help minimize this personality trait, but they will probably carry an element of this with them for their entire lives. The Verdict Sable German shepherds are not exotic crossbreeds but rather a rare color of the purebred German shepherd dog. They are actually the original color of the breed, matching its famous founding member. Sable-colored German shepherds are actually relatively rare, so they can be expensive to procure. However, aside from their unique color, they are just like other German shepherds, one of the most popular breeds in the United States. They are large and strong dogs with a lot of energy, which makes them well suited to hard work. They are also highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them ideal to train to complete complex tasks such as the roles of military and police dogs despite being originally bred as herders. Overall, sable German shepherds are: Rarer than just about any other color of German shepherd No different than other German shepherds as far as personality, temperament, etc. With the right training and socialization, they are very safe dogs. German shepherds are great dogs for active people who have a lot of time to spend with their pup and want a companion to join them on various active adventures. Do you have experience with sable German shepherd dogs? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Related Article:.

November 8, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? The German Shepherd Dog, one of the top ten popular breeds in the United States, is known for their regal appearance, bravery, intelligence, and noble character. They are hard-working dogs that fit into a variety of service jobs, but can also be amazing family dogs, making them an all-around great breed for dog lovers! How do you know if the German Shepherd Dog is the right fit for you and your family? German Shepherd Dogs are a younger breed that started in Germany in by Captain Max Von Stephanitz who sought to create an unmatched herding dog. But as Germany became more and more industrialized, the breed shifted from herding work to police and military training. Hundreds of these dogs made their way to the United States during WWI, one such being a small five-day-old puppy that was rescued from a destroyed kennel in France and brought home to the states to Los Angeles. This puppy later grew up to be one of the most famous four-legged movie stars, Rin Tin Tin, starring in 26 movies, forever making the German Shepherd Dog breed a popular choice in the nation! If you are looking for an attractive dog, look no further! German Shepherd Dogs have beautiful coats, strong muscular builds, a square muzzle, long bushy tail, and a black mask. Some colors like red and black, or tan and black, have distinct markings such as saddle or blanket on their back. However, German Shepherd Dogs come in a variety of colors: sable, silver, liver, panda, solid black, and solid white. What are German Shepherd Dog Personalities like? German Shepherd Dogs can be reserved, often appearing aloof toward new people, but this very loyal breed loves their families and can be very affectionate. While they can be wary of new people and protective of their family, with the right socialization, German Shepherd Dogs can be friendly and easy-going. They are an intelligent and high-energy breed that thrives with a job to do. Due to this, without the proper or consistent amount of stimulating work, they can easily become bored and frustrated. Those feelings could translate into behaviors like barking, howling, or chewing. As they get older, they'll equally enjoy relaxing with you at home and getting up with you to do the next fun activity! If you are a lover of going for long walks or runs, enjoy hiking on the weekends, or trips to the beach depending on where you live, a German Shepherd Dog will gladly trot alongside you! German Shepherd Dogs while they can be independent, do crave to be with their family and offer great companionship. With crate training, your German Shepherd puppy will learn to adapt to being left alone for periods of time without developing separation anxiety, however, this breed thrives with interaction and will do best a puppy parent that can provide them with a balanced amount of alone and accompanied time throughout the day. Like many large breed dogs, German Shepherd Dogs can suffer from some common illnesses including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, degenerative spinal stenosis, and Von Willebrand disease. Thankfully, responsible breeders today have bred out many of these and improved the health of the breed significantly! When you bring home your new German Shepherd puppy, schedule their first veterinarian visit to discuss appropriate health care, proper nutrition and supplements, and exercise. German Shepherd Dogs tend to shed regularly and heavily twice in the year during the Spring and Fall season. With soft undercoats and harsher topcoats, they would do best with regular brushing once a week will help remove their dead fur and maintain healthy skin! Note: When looking for a reputable German Shepherd Dog breeder, go through an accredited website such as AKC for their breeder locator. Additionally, many pure-breed and mixed German Shepherds are available in rescues and shelters for adoption! German Shepherds are smart and hard-working, so puppy training will not only provide them with the stimulation they crave but also solidify your communication, trust, and overall relationship! Early puppy training Lay the foundation for good behavior the day your puppy comes home, introducing them to basic obedience. Keeping your puppy on a leash at home while under supervision will help to build their focus on you as their leader and also help keep them from darting away. Soon, build up to more obedience training commands, work on their focus through distractions, and start to introduce training in different locations such as your yard, or neighborhood to solidify their communication with you in any situation. Also, check out the rest of our Puppy Training and Puppyhood Made Easy for New Owners series to guide you through what to train your puppy next, how to troubleshoot, and other important topics every puppy owner should know! Going back to their wilder instincts, puppies will naturally avoid soiling where they sleep. Crate training your German Shepherd Dog puppy will help boost their confidence and resilience while learning to be alone at home. Socialization is a must German Shepherd Dogs are natural protectors and benefit greatly from being socialized with other dogs, people, new places, textures, and sounds. When done correctly, s ocialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on barking or jumping, which are common puppy behaviors when they are excited or over-stimulated when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer to help set you up for the best success! Consider advanced training to keep them engaged German Shepherd Dogs are very intelligent and have high-prey drives which mean they love to work! Along with basic obedience, dog sports like agility are a great way to motivate them and help your puppy work out their energy. Agility helps establish a stronger communication bond through body language while your puppy is participating. Developed as part of K9 and military dog training, this is a perfect activity for your German Shepherd to burn off some mental and physical steam! Did you recently bring home a German Shepherd Dog puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! 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! Join and learn directly from Nadelhaus founder Traci Needles, who has over 25 years of experience breeding and training German Shepherds. Over 50 videos on the following topics covering German Shepherd puppies, housebreaking, crate training, obedience, feeding, grooming, wellness, and much more. New videos to be added every month. The breeder will also inform you of additional vaccinations you will need to schedule with your veterinarian as your puppy grows. Traveling Home With Your New Puppy On the day you pick up your new German Shepherd puppy from our facility, bring a small crate for the puppy to travel home in. We sell Puppy Packs at our facility which include a dog crate and can have one ready for you if you wish to purchase one. Otherwise, if you plan to hold your puppy in your lap on your drive home, bring a few small towels to place on your lap for the puppy. We highly recommend that you DO NOT stop at rest stops, dog parks, or parks to let your puppy go potty. Your puppy will not have received all of its parvovirus shots yet, so exposing your puppy to areas where other dogs have been increases the risk of your puppy contracting parvo. Instead we recommend that you find places that have concrete or hard surfaces like a paved parking lot. In the summertime, be conscious of the surface your puppy is walking on. At Home Care For Your New Puppy The first 24 to 36 hours in your new home is an acclimation period for your puppy to get settled in your home. It is common for your German Shepherd puppy to have diarrhea or loose stool the first week it is in your new home. It is acclimating to a new world and a different schedule. Be very mindful about what kind of dog treats and toys you supply the puppy to chew on. These are all edible things that can cause loose stool and diarrhea. These are also additional calories that puppies will eat before they eat a meal. During their acclimation to your new homes, we recommend you keep treats and cookies to a minimum. These are too rich and too hard on their systems. Wait at least 24 hours before giving your puppy a bath. You are more than welcome to keep in touch with us during this time and ask questions via email or text. The breeder will review the amount of food and schedule with you when you pick up your puppy. If your puppy has a weak appetite during the acclimation period you can add boiled boneless chicken and cooked white rice to its meals. Or you can add canned food to its meal to entice its appetite. Discard any uneaten food after each meal. Ensure your puppy has access to fresh, clean water during the day. If you are house breaking your puppy, remove access to water at least 4 hours prior to bed time. Diarrhea in very young puppies during their first weeks in their new environment is not uncommon. Here's why: Stress and Adaptation: The transition from their birthplace to a new home is a significant change for a young puppy. The stress of leaving their mother and littermates, coupled with adapting to a new diet and environment, can lead to gastrointestinal upset. Dietary Changes: Puppies might experience a sudden switch in their diet when they move to their new home. This shift in nutrition, even if well-intentioned, can disrupt their delicate digestive systems and result in diarrhea. Microbial Adjustment: The puppy's gut is in the process of developing a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria. Stress and changes in diet can temporarily affect this delicate balance, leading to digestive disturbances like diarrhea. This adjustment period is natural as the puppy's gut adapts to new microorganisms in their surroundings. While occasional mild diarrhea can be expected, it's important to monitor your puppy's condition. Why young puppies get diarrhea and how to treat it Introducing Your Puppy To Other Pets Gradual Introduction: Begin with neutral territory, not in the home of the adult dog, where both dogs can meet on leashes. Increase the time and frequency of their interactions slowly and under supervision. Supervised Interaction: After bringing the puppy home, closely supervise their interactions. Start with separate spaces and controlled play sessions, intervening if tensions arise. Ensure each dog has a safe space to retreat to. Patience and Adaptation: Understand that dogs have unique personalities. Be patient as they adjust to each other. Gradually extend their time together while monitoring their behavior and providing guidance as needed. Introducing a puppy to an adult dog watch even more videos on how to care for your german shepherd puppy with a learning center subscription. 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:.

A puppy will learn faster if it knows that you are the leader. Merle can also alter different colors and patterns aside from the typical red or black. Whether you own a black-tri, red-merle, or blue-merle Aussie, there is not any difference apart from the cosmetics or visual appeal. Generally, Australian Shepherds are rather healthy dogs. For instance, they are hyperactive dogs that need to work. All Australian Shepherds generally have copper-type markings that signal they are truly an Aussie. Maintenance and Care Australian Shepherds are comparatively simple to care for but require a great deal of maintenance. The ideal thing you can do to make sure a happy and healthier dog is diet and exercise. Adopt or Purchase? Should you decide that you would prefer to purchase a puppy? Additionally, German Shepherd puppies have to be actively socialized. With other dogs, people, and places as a way to grow up with confidence, they should be balanced dogs. If you are a dog owner who is looking for a blue Merle German shepherd. Make sure that you buy from a reputable and trusted breed. There are many breeds of this type of dog out there and you need to do your research. And be sure that you are getting a good breed that will last for a lifetime. The blue Merle is a popular color and has a great name. It has a very long coat that makes it very sleek and easy to groom. They are very gentle dogs that love attention but will not get angry because they are of a certain color. This makes them great pets for families that do not have a lot of time to spend with their children or pets. A good breed of blue Merle is a cross between a long-haired German shepherd and a short-haired one. There is a genetic reason why the color blue merles come into existence and it is believed to be a recessive trait. This means that if a dog is of one color and has another color on the same side, then the resulting offspring will be blue. The blue Merle is often a cross between a poodle and a miniature Schnauzer. The poodles are known for their manliness and love to have children around. On the other hand, schnauzers are extremely affectionate and loving. There are many different characteristics that you should look for when you are looking at purchasing a blue Merle German Shepherd. First, make sure that you look for long and flowing hair. You want to look at the eyes as well because this is where you will be able to tell if the dog is nervous or not. You also want to make sure that you are buying from a good breeder or rescue group. Make sure that you do not take your chances with a pet that may get hurt or worse. Also, make sure that you have your pet spayed or neutered so that it will be less aggressive. So now that you know what a good breed is and have some ideas of what traits that you would like your dog to have, it is time to look for one. A good place to start is with a local breeder that you can trust and that you feel comfortable with. After finding a good breeder or rescue group, make sure that you have your pet evaluated by an expert in the field before bringing your pet to the new home with the blue Merle. A lot of research has been done about this type of dog and this should help you make an informed decision. Ask as many questions as possible to ensure that you are getting a good fit for your family. If you feel that your dog will be too demanding, then you should keep looking until you find one that you can afford. When you bring the blue Merle into your home, make sure that you set up an environment where your family can get to know each other. This will also give you a chance to bond with your pet. Remember, this is a special pet and you have to make sure that everyone is happy. One final tip on how to find a good blue Merle is to use the internet. If you do not live near a breeder or a shelter, then search for a rescue group online and read their website to learn all you can about their puppies. These shelters can sometimes have great puppies that are left to fend for themselves but they are often in poor health, so you should not buy from these puppy mills. Once you find a good breeder, make sure that you do your homework before buying. If you have not been keeping German Shepherds, then I encourage you to do so. The reasons for this are many. This breed is adorable, full of love, and very lovable. This article will give you all the information you need to adopt a Blue Merle German Shepherd. The first thing you need to know when learning how to adopt a German Shepherd is that adopting a puppy can cost anywhere from two thousand up to ten thousand dollars. This all depends on where you live. Some areas have more licenses required for puppies than others, and the cost could go up even more. It is best to find out all you can before choosing to adopt one from a shelter or other place. The cost is so high because these dogs need a lot of care and love before they are fully grown, and they are very protective as a breed. When you adopt a German Shepherd, you are adopting a very energetic dog. They need lots of walking and daily exercise. A blue Merle has a high prey drive, which means they will pursue anything that moves. If you have children in the house, they may get bitten or even choke on their new puppy. These puppies can get very aggressive if provoked. Be prepared for this. When playing with children, it is best to keep your pup on a leash. If you decide to adopt a blue Merle German Shepherd, you should also be prepared to get an inoculation shot. This is very important because the virus that causes this is the same virus that causes hip dysplasia in humans. Because it is a rare disease, the chances of your pup contracting this disease are slim. German Shepherds are very protective dogs and should be around all members of the family. This includes children. You should also not allow your pup to go outside unless there is another adult in the family, such as a parent or grandparent. A responsible breeder will not allow an unplanned pregnancy, and will also not allow the pup to be alone without the supervision of an adult in the household. When your puppy is old enough, he or she will be trained to stay out of the room where the other animals sleep. A German Shepherd can end up inside the room of another animal. You will have to make sure that your pup understands that when you are away, he or she has to stay in his room. Having a blue German Shepherd in the family also means that he or she will get acquainted with the people in the family. It is common for puppies to become shy around people. But they usually become friendly once they get to know more people. If you are thinking about having puppies, make sure that you carefully research breeding requirements. Blue German Shepherds can make wonderful, loyal companions, but you have to make sure that you are ready for the responsibility. You have to keep in mind that the puppy should be socialized before you introduce him or her to other people. You must consult a professional trainer to help you with training. This is the time when he or she needs to get used to humans and other animals. During this crucial period, it is vital to establish early on that you are the alpha owner. Remember that a puppy will not obey just because you tell it to do so. You have to take charge and be the one who establishes rules and discipline. An important part of training your puppy is getting him or her used to being indoors. Give your dog sufficient amounts of outdoor exercise, so that he or she gets used to the routine of going outside. It is also important to establish a routine for feeding. Schedule feeding times in the same manner as you would schedule bedtime. You can teach your blue German Shepherd that the four-legged friend who loves you always gets an equal amount of attention and love. Share this:. Sable White Though all these colors are standard for this dog breed, not all of them are widely bred. Breeders choose to avoid colors such as liver, white and blue, despite being standard colors. So, if you have your heart set on one of the ones I just mentioned, then you may need to spend extra time searching for a reputable breeder. But even with this common color, there is plenty of room for variation. The tan fur can range from deeper hues to a shade that almost approaches silver along the edges. The black color usually appears as a saddle-like pattern along the back and can vary quite a bit in size. Something to keep in mind is that GSDs born with this pattern usually begin life with a darker shade and slowly lighten as they mature. Darker, especially black, coloration is recessive in the German Shepherd. So if both the parents display the black and tan coloring, then the pup is more likely to as well. Sable German Shepherd via Instagram: konathesablegsd The most common color seen in the German Shepherd breed is the sand color. As a matter of fact, this opens the door for quite a few color combinations. While other colors of this breed are largely defined by single colors, or bicolor ratios, sable dogs are a bit more homogenous. That is, the coloring is more even throughout without distinct areas of one color or another. Within this coloring, the shades can range from lighter greys to darker colors, such as more grey or shades approaching red and brown. If you were to look at any single hair of a German Shepherd with this coloring, you might notice that their hair can have two to three colors on each strand. As such, they are much more popular in the work line or as pets. They are especially popular in the K-9 units of a police force. Bicolor German Shepherd via Instagram: asulkancrew At first glance, this may seem like a variation of the black and tan German Shepherd. And there is some debate about whether bicolor German Shepherds are simply displaying a pattern or a distinct color on its own. A bicolor German Shepherd will have black and tan colors, but the black with be much more dominant here. Almost the entire body will be black, with only a few areas such as the legs or chest displaying fur that ranges from tan to brown. At birth, the two-tone German Shepherd will be hard to distinguish from its solid black siblings. In fact, it may take months to start seeing changes. However, an indicator of whether the puppy will grow up to be a bicolor dog is if it has some brown color under the tail. Black German Shepherd via Instagram: trublueaussiedogz The gene for a black coat is recessive in German Shepherds, so an entirely black dog will be somewhat hard to find. Black GSDs might actually have a bit of brown fur on their toes or feet, and even some hints of white on their chest. While less common than other colorations, a black German Shepherd is by no means rare. There will be some breeders that hike up the price based solely on the idea that these dogs are rare or special. And while, yes, they are absolutely beautiful and worth taking home, just be sure the price is fair and do some market research beforehand. The white GSD is downright gorgeous. The white coloring really gives the dog a wolf-like look and lends it an air of mystery. They may often get confused for an athletic, slimmed-down Samoyed, but their poise and calmness begs to differ. Plenty of people, The Smart Canine included, see this coloring as one of the more desirable for a German Shepherd. And, in any case, the AKC does allow them to be registered, but simply not as a show dog. For most owners, this is fine because who really has the time to show their dogs? Biology and evolution did well here by pairing these two genes. Liver-colored German Shepherds tend to range from lighter browns to darker and warmer colors. And in some cases, even bordering on red. The coat can also have hints of other colors in it, smoothly blending in with the brown, here and there. There are three variations of the liver coloring: liver and tan, liver and white, and solid liver. The good news is that all three of these are recognized by the American Kennel Club. Blue German Shepherd via Instagram: titanbluegsd Contrary to what some people say, blue coloring in a German Shepherd is not an indication of fault and or poor health unlike blue French Bulldogs. The reasoning for this belief could be due to the fact that blue coloring might indicate temperament or health problems in other breeds. For example, some blue dogs may have hormone or skin issues. We call this condition, Color Dilution Alopecia. However with the German Shepherd, this is definitely not the case. Plenty of breeders purposely breed for this color because of its rarity. Coming from a recessive gene, blue coloration does not occur often without specifically being bred for it. While you might not have too hard a time finding a blue German Shepherd nowadays, be prepared to dig deeper in your pockets. Their scarcity can push up the price and will vary from breeder to breeder. In a way, the coat pattern of the red and black German Shepherd looks almost like a brindle or merle. The black is not limited to those areas of the body — it depends on the dog and the parents. Most of the time, color distribution may vary from dog to dog. However, they will typically have a silver base on the bottom of their body and black on the top half on their body. The hue of black can range from a dark gray to a deep black. In some instances, the German Shepherd may have silver with multiple shades of black on the coat. Instead of the metallic-like silver coloring, the black and cream has an off-white cream color. However, this cream color can vary from dog to dog, but usually has a hint of yellow to it. It really depends. If you like how it looks, whether white, dark, or blue, then you should choose accordingly. Unfortunately, white German Shepherds will be out of the picture, despite its aesthetic appeal. Either way, coloration in a German Shepherd covers a wide range of options, and each of them are simply just colors. No single color indicates better health, temperament, skills or anything like that. Which is your favorite German Shepherd color? And which one do you own? Let us know in the comments section below! Posts you may like:. Scottish Deerhound Poodle Silvering, as its name suggests, eventually produces a beautiful color ranging from silver to grey-blue. Fanciers also refer to progressive greying dogs as having a blue coat. Note in a few breeds, like the Kerry Blue Terrier, the greying gene is universal. In other breeds such as the Havanese, bluing is more sporadic. Ticking and Roan Ticking and roan both refer to varying degrees of color on a white coat that gives a speckled or white-flecked appearance, respectively. Dogs only appear bluish or grayish because of the mixture of white and black hairs. An unidentified ticking gene is responsible for many forms of spotting and roaning on dogs and is partially dominant. Recent findings suggest two separate genes may be responsible for roan and ticking as opposed to multiple locations on one gene. Where the predominant color is black, a roan dog appears bluish. Australian Cattle Dog — Excellent example of blue roan. Where the dog has the most white, the black looks lighter, and the entire area has a bluish or grayish cast. Merle dogs appear bluish because of the swirl of dark and lighter hairs close to each other. Merles are often several shades of gray along with black that all have the illusion of varying blue hues. People sometimes confuse merle dogs with roan or ticked dogs. Merle is a dominant gene, and dogs with a double copy appear to be more susceptible to eye problems and deafness. This gene only affects eumelanin or dark pigment. Dilution Gene A dilution gene is a modifier at the center of the rare blue German Shepherd. The dilution gene affects eumelanin or the very dark pigment in black coats. If a German Shepherd has a saddle and mask that would ordinarily be black, these areas will show up as steel blue in a dog with the dilution gene. Therefore, blue in a Shepherd can refer to four pattern variations: Solid blue Blue bicolor — has very minor tan points. Blue and tan Blue sable A dilution gene usually is most apparent in the dark parts of the coat. However, the dilution gene also affects pheomelanin. If a German Shepherd is predominantly reddish or yellow, as in some wild sable or tan dogs, the dilution gene would produce a cream-colored animal. Note, a cream Shepherd is not genotypically a fawn, even if it has a dark facial mask. Also, one should be careful not to confuse red and yellow German Shepherds with liver dogs. Red dogs have black noses. On the contrary, liver Shepherds have light-colored nose leather which reflects the browning gene. The liver allows no expression of black, and Shepherds with the brown gene will have yellow or amber eyes. Adding further to the complexity of color genetics is the intensity gene. This gene affects the brightness and depth of the brown coloration or reds of the dog. If the intensity gene allows high levels of pheomelanin, traditionally-colored German Shepherds will be vivid, and show judges will reward them. The eyes will always give you an idea if the bluing gene is present in Shepherds. Dilution disrupts pigmentation in the iris, so dogs with the blue gene will have lighter-colored eyes. Is Isabella blue? The silvery tawny shade, perhaps best illustrated by the Weimaraner, is the effect of the dilution gene on the color liver. The dilution gene can affect any color of the standard German Shepherd. Although very rare, the blue gene could theoretically affect a White Shepherd. The intensity locus dictates whether any red persists. If the dilution gene is present, it dilutes both eumelanin and pheomelanin. White dogs with the dilution gene will be snow white with blue or amber eyes. Their paw pads, lips, eye rims, and nose will retain pigment, unlike albinos, but will be gray instead of black. However, German Shepherds with the liver gene or the recessive dilution gene that produces either Isabella or blue carry serious penalties in the conformation show rings. Gray is a choice but refers to wild sable or wolf gray. There are many myths surrounding blue German Shepherds based on faulty information and other breeds: Not purebred dogs — The blue GSD is a purebred dog that has inherited a recessive gene that dilutes the hair coat. Common issues include dysplasia, vulnerability to gastric torsion, degenerative myelopathy, bleeding disorders, and low thyroid hormones. You can register a blue German Shepherd. Blue Shepherds have the same color eyes as standard Shepherds — The dilution gene affects eye pigmentation and blue dogs have light eyes, most commonly blue. Isabella dogs often have the same amber eyes as liver dogs. Dilution only affects dark colors — The dilution gene responsible for blue in Shepherds also gives the red-based colors a washed-out or muddy appearance. The liver gene, on the other hand, only affects eumelanin. However, the so-called bluing gene also works on red, and blue dogs with tan points that will show dampened or muddied shading. Since eumelanin is responsible for the dark pigmentation in brown eyes, the dilution gene will usually produce blue eyes. This is one of the best examples of a blue German Shepherd. At 11 weeks, this blue and tan puppy has a definite off-black coat that looks blue-gray when exposed to light. His eyes are blue and you can see how his tan markings are very pale. He is young, so his eyes could eventually change to amber. Frequently Asked Questions What is a blue German shepherd? A blue German shepherd is a one-color variation of the German Shepherd breed. Their coats are not always one solid color; however. There are three variations of the coats, including blue and beige, blue and sable, and blue and black. Blue German Shepherds also have blue eyes. Blue German Shepherd are incredibly sought after by owners due to their uncommon looks. To the untrained eye, they might look black or dark grey, but when the light hits their coat in the right way you can see their blue undertones. How rare is a blue German shepherd? Blue German Shepherds are very rare dogs because they are only born through a distinct few genetics. You might also have to be put on a waiting list before you can meet your new blue german shepherd puppy. The blue German Shepherd is rare because its color is determined by its genetics. Two genes of the German Shepherd determine their coat color and pattern. The blue German Shepherd needs to inherit the double blue recessive gene or two liver recessive genes. There is no telling how likely a dog is going to inherit these genes, but it is definitely less common than the dominant genes of beige and brown colorings. This means that you might be on a waiting list for a very long time. How much is a blue German Shepherd puppy? Due to the fact that blue German Shepherds are a rare breed, you can expect to pay more for them than you would a common German Shepherd. The American German Shepherd Rescue Association has a number of listed rescue centers that have German Shepherds staying with them that you can adopt. They also have a way to search for blue German Shepherds so that you can find one near you. Are blue German shepherds aggressive? They can occur thanks to a genetic variant in purebred dogs. This fact automatically makes them less valuable to breeders than dogs that can be shown in competitions. Because they are considered a fault, blue eyes are becoming rarer and rarer. Instead, most of them are neutered and sold as pet dogs. A breeder may continue to use a blue-eyed dog for breeding in rare cases, but only if they have exceptional features otherwise. The rarity is increased even more due to the recessive nature of this trait. Both parents have to be carriers of this gene for their puppies to have blue eyes. Brown eyes are dominant, which means that they will cover up the blue eyes trait. A dog may technically have blue eyes — but still, end up with brown due to a dominant brown-eyed gene. Instead, many of them focus on matching the breed standard — which means not using dogs with blue eyes in breeding programs. Breeders that breed show dogs will not have blue-eyed dogs available. However, you may be able to find them produced by breeders that concentrate on pet dogs. These people may even purposefully breed them because they are sometimes sought after by those looking for a pet. German Shepherds usually have brown eyes. This color is the most common and recognized by the breed standard. When many people breed German Shepherds, they aim to breed dogs with brown eyes. The brown-eyed gene is dominant. This means that the dog only needs to inherit one gene for its eyes to be brown. On the other hand, most other eye genes are recessive; the dog must receive two to develop the other eye color. The shade of brown can vary widely, though. Some dogs have dark brown eyes, while others are more of a tan. It largely depends on the amount of melanin a dog produces. More melanin equals a darker shade. There are multiple traits involved. Whether they are brown or blue is pretty easy to work out, but all the traits determining the shade can make determining their end eye color rather tricky. They may look like one of their parents — or they may not work at all. When they are first born, a puppy will not produce all the melanin that they will when they get older unless their eyes are a very light color — in which case they may never increase their melanin output. Therefore, most puppies will be born with light eyes, but they will darken as they get older. Usually, their eyes will reach their final color by the time they are about ten weeks old. This can vary widely from dog to dog, though. Some dogs may have their final color much earlier. Others may develop them much later. Some puppies may even be born with blue eyes — but these rarely stick around into adulthood. Typically, they will darken to brown within a few weeks. Instead, they happen to have blue eyes instead of the usual brown. This is a recessive trait, so your best chance of getting a puppy with blue eyes is to breed two blue-eyed adults. You may occasionally end up with a few blue-eyed puppies from breeding two brown-eyed dogs — assuming that they both have a recessive blue-eyed trait. Some German Shepherd mixed breeds also have blue eyes. Siberian Huskies are a typical example of this. Many Siberian Huskies have blue eyes. Therefore, if you breed them with a German Shepherd, your odds of getting a blue-eyed puppy are much higher. Of course, brown-eyed dogs are much more common. Finding two German Shepherds with blue-eyed traits is much more difficult than finding a Husky with blue eyes. At the moment, it is unknown. There have been few studies done on blue-eyed German Shepherds simply because there are so few of them. Most German Shepherds with blue-eyes are also mixed breeds. There are some health problems associated with blue eyes in other breeds, though. This is primarily because of the decrease in melanin that these dogs produce. For instance, German Dalmatians with blue eyes are more likely to have sensorineural deafness. However, this study also found that there was obvious inheritability even when eye color was controlled for. Therefore, other genes involved caused the deafness — not just the blue eye color itself. It may be that the blue-eyed gene itself has a large enough effect to cause deafness — or German Shepherds may not be affected at all due to their lack of this other deafness gene. Dalmatians also have an increased chance of being deaf if they have blue eyes. There have been other physical traits linked to increased deafness in Dalmatians in dogs, including the amount of spotting in their coat. This may suggest that German Shepherds will have an equal chance of being deaf if they have blue eyes. However, this is not known for sure. What About Merle German Shepherds? There are no merle German Shepherds. However, mixed-breed German Shepherds may have the merle gene — depending on the dog they are bred with. Sadly, the merle gene causes quite a few health problems. However, the science is pretty clear on this topic. Many proposed health problems may come along with a merle coat. However, only a few have scientific evidence supporting them. Dogs with the merle gene are nearly twice as likely to be deaf or blind than those without it. Multiple studies have drawn these conclusions. These health problems likely stem from the decrease in pigment the dog creates, leading to problems with their eyes and ears. Many breeders will not attempt to create merle German Shepherds for this reason. And these canines would not be purebred. It makes the dog worthless since they cannot be shown. Finding a blue-eyed German Shepherd is extremely difficult. For the most part, these dogs are rare. Most breeders produce dogs to be shown in the show ring. Instead, they are focused on producing pet-quality dogs. In this case, they may purposefully breed dogs with blue eyes, as many potential pet owners are willing to pay a high price for these German Shepherds. These breeders are few and far between. You may have to travel quite far to find one. And the waiting list may be substantial. If you want a dog now, you should probably settle on one with brown eyes. Due to their rarity, some people assume that this is a defect. However, it is caused by a recessive gene — it just happens to be a rare one. There may be some health problems associated with this gene. In other breeds, dogs with blue eyes are more likely to have certain health conditions. Plus, the current need for studies is relatively low, as these dogs are often not very common. If these dogs do have different health problems, the odds are likely not substantial. They might have a slightly higher chance of being deaf, for instance — but this chance will be meager. However, you may want to keep this in mind if you decide to adopt one. Conclusion Blue-eyed German Shepherds are very rare. The blue-eyed gene does exist in this breed. However, it is not nearly as common as the brown-eyed gene. Therefore, finding these dogs is difficult. Many breeders do not produce German Shepherds with blue eyes because they cannot be shown. They will avoid breeding these dogs where possible, though some blue-eyed dogs may pop up occasionally. These breeders usually market their dogs to pet owners. Stay on the lookout for more studies, which may be published as this dog becomes more popular. Author: Kristin Kristin was born in Tennessee and currently lives there with her husband and children. She is passionate about educating pet parents and helping them make the best possible decisions for their pets. She currently owns one dog, two cats, a lizard, and a variety of fish. Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly. A rich diversity of lengths, colors and pigment—combined with a number of varying body types—make the German Shepherd one of the more structurally diverse of all dog breeds. From the short stock coat of the East German working line dogs to the extreme long stock coat of some West German show-line dogs—there is a shape, style and color tailored to you and your lifestyle. There are three main types of hair on German Shepherd Dogs: ground hair undercoat , guard hair topcoat and whiskers. Dogs with both an undercoat and a topcoat are called double coated. The first layer, or undercoat, functions primarily as insulation and is soft and usually of a lighter color. The second layer, or topcoat, consists of thick-shafted, coarse hair. It also has weatherproofing qualities ideal for working and playing outdoors. With rare exception, most German Shepherds have double coats—though the degree of undercoat can vary widely. German Shepherds can have little to almost no undercoat or have massively dense, woolly undercoats that require daily maintenance. Double coats are ideal for maintaining warmth in colder months, but also provide cooling in the summer by keeping heat away from the surface of the skin. For this reason, the shaving of double-coated dogs is not recommended if they have prolonged exposure to the elements. Their coat helps regulate body temperature and protects their skin from harmful UV rays. Shedding German Shepherds, aka German Shedders, shed and shed a lot. Working dogs are required to do their jobs regardless of weather or terrain. To keep their coats in optimum condition—daily, excessive shedding is needed. Unfortunately for us, this means additional brushing and bathing. If you do not own a good vacuum cleaner or sweeper, you will need to purchase one if you have one or more German Shepherds inside your home. In the spring, their thick winter undercoat is shed and replaced with a thinner, cooler undercoat. In the fall, their summer undercoat is shed and replaced by a thicker, warmer undercoat. Care and Grooming Daily brushing and frequent bathing are your best defenses against excessive shedding. Bathe and groom puppies frequently so they learn to enjoy—or at least tolerate—the experience. Most German Shepherds enjoy a good grooming and since most love water in any form , bathing can also be a pleasurable experience for them. Daily brushing and frequent bathing are your best defenses against excessive shedding. Brushing Most double-coated breeds like German Shepherds need to be brushed regularly—especially if they have a thick undercoat. In the spring and fall when their coats are being blown, daily brushing is important. This helps reduce the amount of hair inside your home and removes their undercoat more quickly. While regular brushing is great for removing loose and dying hair, it also gets rid of mats and tangles—which are common with long- and medium-length coats. Mats are not only unsightly, but they can be painful due to their closeness and tightness to the skin. In southern parts of the country where humidity is high, mats can also lead to skin irritations as the dampness can encourage the growth of skin irritants and other microbes. Check your German Shepherd often for mats—paying special attention to areas behind the ears, between the legs and along the back of the thighs. If your dog is a short stock coat with little undercoat, occasional brushing and bathing is all that is required to keep their coats looking great. Click HERE to learn about elbow hygromas and options for treating and prevent them. Keep your German Shepherd's elbows soft and free of calluses and hygromas. Calming bed for dogs who suffer from anxiety. Water resistant and tear resistant cover. Non-skid bottom. Replacement covers available separately. This short coat, with a thin undercoat, is easy to maintain and can require little or infrequent grooming. Bathing is a breeze as their coats are designed for waterproofing and dry quickly. Water generally rolls off of the guard hairs of German Shepherd Dogs. For all of these reasons and more, short stock coats are the preferred coat type for service dogs, police dogs and military dogs. The dog pictured to the right is an excellent example of a very nice, healthy coated, short stock coat—with minimal undercoat. Medium stock coats have longer, thicker hair on the neck, underbelly and along the back of the thighs. Their undercoat tends to be more dense than that seen in the short stock coats of West and East German working lines. Medium stock coats require additional grooming to keep their coats in optimum condition. Note also that medium- and long-coated dogs do not shed more than their short stock-coat counterparts—the hair shed is just longer. Hair around the face, ears, chest, bottom line and back of thigh panties can exceed four inches in length. This coat requires regular care and grooming. Hair, especially behind the ears and between their rear legs, is prone to matting, and requires daily brushing. The American Kennel Club AKC is one of the few show organizations that still considers a long stock coat to be faulty. Long stock-coat dogs are not only accepted by most German Shepherd Club organizations, including the German SV, but they have become valuable and sought after in recent years—and compete at the highest levels in Germany and world wide. Note also that these coats often continue to grow in length and density with age, so older dogs require additional daily care and grooming. All coat colors and lengths mentioned above are attributes of purebred German Shepherds. However, some breed organizations consider certain characteristics to be breed faults and can be penalized or even disqualifying in the show ring. However, if you plan to show your dog, you will need to study the standard and requirements of your desired show organization s to ensure your dog is eligible to compete and title in the show ring. But the German Shepherd of today actually comes in a variety of colors and patterns as pictured above. The color of their coat is determined by genetic makeup. Genes that are dominant are more common, while those that are recessive are more rare. Black and Tan This is the most common color pattern—which is usually black all over, with tan or cream-colored chest, shoulders, legs and thighs. There are many color variations to this pattern, most commonly—black and red, black and cream and black and silver. Bicolor Another variation to the traditional black-and-tan colored dog are bicolored dogs. Their bodies are predominantly black with a secondary accent color on the lower legs that can be tan, cream, gray or silver. All of these black areas, also called points, on the legs and toes should be richly pigmented. A dog is not considered to be bicolored unless it has these distinctive black markings and they can appear on both dual- and sable-patterned dogs. Sable The word sable means the color of black. The definition of a sable pattern refers to guard hairs being tipped with black. The more guard hairs and the longer the tipping, the darker the dog. Black sables are dogs with heavy tipping and less ground color. Agouti is a term that refers to the banding or grizzling of hair coloration that can be seen in varying amounts in the neck, shoulder, tail, croup and border markings in saddle-marked dogs. Some German Shepherds have so much grizzling in the black blanket or so much undercoat showing, that they are hard to distinguish from sables, and some sables that carry the partially-hidden, saddle-pattern recessive gene have so much of that recessive showing through that they look like washed-out saddles. Melanistic is another term associated with black coloring. Melanistic refers to the amount and density of melanin black pigment found within the hair shaft. Melanistic coloring refers to the masking of a color or pattern with black. Sable-colored German Shepherds are infamous for changing colors multiple times before reaching maturity. Adult dogs can have a completely different coloring and pattern then what was present as a puppy. No good dog is a bad color. Black is uncommon due to being a recessive gene but still prevalent within the breed. Typically, they are completely black with no other colors on the body. Solid White Solid white German Shepherds are not albinos. Their color is the result of a recessive gene that can be carried by any colored dog. When learning about pigment and color patterns, understand that white is not a color. There is no solid-color gene for white. The more pure white a dog, the lighter the color of its masked color underneath. Every white German Shepherd is really a traditional color and pattern covered by a white mask. The blue colors in these dogs replace the black areas of their more common black-and-tan counterparts. Blue dogs often appear as a dusty or somewhat light gray with a gray leather nose. Sometimes puppies are born with very light eyes as well. This, too, is a rare recessive gene and considered by the AKC to be a faulty eye color. Isabella An Isabella German Shepherd, aka lilac or mouse-gray German Shepherd, is the result of a recessive gene dilution giving them a washed-out silvery-blue color. The color is not technically a blue, however. The color is most widely recognized within the Weimaraner breed. Because Isabella German Shepherds are less common and considered faulty for showing purposes, there are fewer reputable and responsible breeders. Select your Isabella GSD breeder carefully and insist on thorough health testing information and lineage information. Liver Liver is another recessive gene leading to liver-colored offspring. In a liver-colored dog, all the black parts are a brown or liver color, ranging from light to dark shades. They might also have light eyes—which typically changes into a darker color with maturity. Panda The Panda German Shepherd is a piebold-colored dog meaning no more than 35 percent of its body is white with mixed patches of black and brown. Research confirms that this pattern is not the result of crossbreeding—but rather a genetic mutation. Ticking vs. Roan vs. Blue Merle Ticking is flecks or spots of color on white areas. Most ticked dogs are born white and develop ticking as they mature. Generally, ticking is heaviest on the legs and muzzle. Roan is a pattern of white and colored hairs evenly mixed over the white areas of the body. Roaning creates a near-solid pattern over a white coat causing a dog to appear dusted with white. If the predominant color of the dog is black, then the roaning can appear bluish in color. People sometimes confuse merle dogs with roan or ticked dogs. Merle dogs do not have a white base coat of color, however, some merle dogs are ticked. The genes responsible for ticking, roaning and merle are dominant so a purebred German Shepherd cannot produce these patterns without being crossed with a dog breed that carries the genes. As we can see from the images above, German Shepherds come in an array of coat colors and patterns—including saddle, blanket, bicolor, sable and solid colors. The organization does not, however, allow dogs of these colors to be shown in the conformation ring as these characteristics are faults according to the German Shepherd breed standard. Dogs carrying the liver gene or the recessive dilution gene that produces either Isabella or blue dogs also carry serious penalties in the show ring. Liver, blue and Isabella are not recognized because of the color of their leathers; and the solid whites are omitted due to the absence of black in the hairs on top of their backs. If you wish to campaign and show your dog in the conformation ring however, you will need to keep with animals with traditionally accepted colors and patterns. Dogs that are liver, blue or Isabella are severely penalized. Reverse Mask and Maskless German Shepherds The reverse mask aka wolf mask German shepherd is not a mix or hybrid, but rather a dog presenting a pattern that appears when both parents carry the gene for this coloring. These patterns date back to some of the earliest German Shepherd foundation dogs and still appear in certain lines, today. Rin-Tin-Tin was another reverse-mask without the stripe German Shepherd. The reverse mask can also present with or without the wolf stripe running down the nose. Some dogs are born with the wolf stripe but it fades with maturity—while others maintain the stripe. Maskless German Shepherds are dogs born with no mask, meaning their face coloring is the same as that of their body. Maskless dogs most commonly present as solid cream, tan, gray or silver. Both reverse mask and maskless German Shepherds are considered faulty lacking pigment for conformation purposes. Impression and Expression Impression — an idea, feeling, or opinion about a dog formed without conscious thought—or formed on the basis of little information. It is well balanced, with harmonious development of the forequarter and hindquarter. It looks substantial, giving the impression—both at rest and in motion—of muscular fitness and nimbleness. The ideal dog is stamped with a look of quality and nobility—difficult to define, but unmistakable when present. Aside from overall outline, size and strength of body, the head is the most prominent feature of a German Shepherd. It is here that we find expression. The head should convey strength of character, intelligence, confidence and nobility—even in the very young. In recent years, some show lines have developed a black-face mask in which the entire mantle and muzzle of the dog is predominately black. Any feature that detracts from the overall impression or expression of a dog can be less desirable. Black-faced German Shepherds have become very popular, but some traditionalists believe this pattern can in fact, change the expression of the dog—giving it an intimidating or less approachable expression. Most of the top VA dogs in Germany still carry the traditional mask pattern, but there are many up-and-coming black-faced dogs vying for the top spots. Another example of how color can impact expression is eye color. Light eyes on a German Shepherd overpower other aspects of the dog and change its expression from that of a traditional, loyal shepherd to that of a more elusive, mystic wolf. For this reason, the breed standard calls for the eyes of German Shepherds to be as dark as possible. In the show ring, light eye color—especially yellow hues—are penalized. Become a part of the GSDLiving experience. Upload a photo, pay tribute to your best friend

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. 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.

Like I said earlier, breeders follow kennel club breed standards as much as possible. The standard color of the AKC for this breed is white. This explains why the white American Bulldog is considered the most common among its color varieties. Aside from the solid white, those with colored markings are quite popular as well. In a litter of pups, you will never know exactly what colors you are going to get. Your baby American Bulldogs may come from the same litter but may have different coat colors. Canine genetics is a fairly complex but really interesting topic. I will try to explain this as simply as possible so you too can understand how it works. Genes are in-charge of two things in determining dog coats. First, they control which pigments are produced resulting in the colors of your dogs. Second, they control where these pigments are produced which explains why there are solid-colored, two-toned, brindled, and merle coats. Color genes may also dilute each other resulting in different colors. I mentioned earlier that lilac American Bulldogs are actually black dogs that are diluted twice. Its chocolate gene [bb] dilutes its black color to brown, then its blue [dd] gene further dilutes it to blue. The result is a lilac Bulldog that is grayish with hints of lilac or purple. These dogs can live long when they are healthy and well-taken care of. It has not been proven that coat color affects the health of American Bulldogs. The direct association between these two is yet to be explored. Regardless of what color your American Bulldog is, you should look out for these common health risks: Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is an orthopedic problem where the thigh bone does not fit the hip joint causing Bulldogs to feel pain and limp. Hypothyroidism: Bulldogs are prone to thyroid problems like hypothyroidism. Aside from health, there are also concerns about the effect of coat color on the temperament of American Bulldogs. While black American Bulldogs may look more intimidating than others, there are no studies that prove how these dogs, or any color for that matter, are more aggressive than other variants. In general, American Bulldogs are playful, sociable, and intelligent. The aggressive reputation brought by their bull-baiting past is a misconception as they are actually great for families and even with kids. Early training and socialization are key to having a well-behaved and obedient American Bulldog companion at home. What coat color they have upon birth will still be the same coat color and pattern until they are fully grown. However, it is not uncommon for their coats to become lighter or darker when they transition into adulthood. It may turn into another hue or shade on a case-to-case basis. After all, no two American Bulldogs are the same. To give you an idea of how an American Bulldog grows from a small pup into a big adult, watch this growing-up video documented by a fur parent. American Bulldog Eye and Nose Colors Aside from its coat, the eyes and nose of the American Bulldog also have color standards set by the two kennel clubs that recognize the breed. Blue, green, or parti colored eyes are disqualified. Eyes that do not match in color are disqualified. The eyes of American Bulldogs are typically black or brown. There may be instances, though, where heterochromia occurs where each eye carries a different color. Kennel clubs consider heterochromia a cosmetic fault. American Bulldog Nose Colors. However, breeders have transitioned the two breeds into working dogs. Bulloxers are gentle and affectionate hybrid dogs known for their loyalty to their owner and family. However, they reach maturity at a slow pace and may behave like untrained puppies for years. The Bulloxers, which are also called the American Boxerbulls, can live for about nine to twelve years or even longer. Bulloxers are large and muscular dogs. Their coats come in three colors, which are brindle, fawn, and white. So you need to have a vacuum cleaner handy and brush it for a few days a week. Keep it on a daily exercise routine that can satisfy its cravings for a physical challenge. The combination of two strong-headed breeds can make for a hybrid dog that is hard to handle. However, the Husky Bulldog responds well to positive reinforcement. The American Bullsky may be prone to hip dysplasia, cherry eye, and cardiac diseases. It is also unadvisable to let the Bullsky live in a hot environment. The Corgi American Bulldog mix is a sweet companion for families, based on the temperament of the two parent breeds. The Corgi mixed with American Bulldog will have a high energy level, which means that owners need to take them on long walks or hikes until they tire out. The American Bulldog and Corgi are both moderate shedders, which should tell you about the amount of shedding an American Bullcorg will have. It may go from standard, which leans to the Bulldog side, or the toy size, which is from the Poodle gene. The American Boodle may have short to medium length coat with a wavy texture. Because of its Poodle genes, the hybrid dog may require constant grooming and brushing. American Bulldoodle need training and socialization as a puppy. They often get attached to their owners and may feel separation anxiety when left alone for a long period of time. Find an American Boodle breeder who subjected their dogs to testing for genetic disorders. Bulldog Shepherd puppies are hard to find because only the Dog Registry of America recognizes this hybrid-dog. You will need a brush that can comb through thick and long hair for its weekly grooming. When untrained, the dog loves to play biting games, which might feel unsafe for owners and their families. The American Bulldog Beagle sheds heavily, but its short coat makes it easy for owners to groom. Despite constant problems with ear infections, the Beabull is a hybrid breed with a healthy immune system and can live up to ten to thirteen years. The American Bugle weighs about thirty to sixty pounds and reaches the height of approximately twelve to sixteen inches. If left alone and not given enough training, they can be lazy. Forty-five minutes of exercise will keep the hybrid dog very happy. The American Bulldog and Bull Mastiff mix also go by the name of American Bandogge Mastiff, which includes any bulldog and mastiff combination. The American Mastiff may develop genetic health issues common to American Pit Bull Terriers and any Mastiff-type breeds, and it will help to research the common illnesses those types of breeds can catch. The American Badogge Mastiff has a British canine temperament, which makes it a good companion for children, often being a self-appointed babysitter. Labradogs, or American Bulladors, have low maintenance coats that require brushing once every week. If the dog is leaning to the Labrador side, more grooming is needed. Coat colors vary from black, brown, white, yellow, red, or tan. American Bulldog and Labrador mix, who also goes by the name American Labrabull, can suffer from the brachycephalic syndrome, which will give your dog breathing troubles, gagging, or collapse. American Bulladors are eager to please and ready to learn, which makes it quite easy to train them at an early age. The American Bulldog and Chihuahua mix, which also goes by the name of American Bullhuahua, is prone to dental issues. It is essential to keep its diet to grain-free kibble that can sustain its nutritional requirement. The American Bulleenie boasts a thin coat that will need weekly brushing and bathing. While its thin jacket is short and soft, it can shed occasionally. The American Bulleenie is a highly sociable dog. It loves spending time with its owners. It remains cautious around strangers because of its Chihuahua genes. It engages in hunting activities, police watches, and military work. Its height ranges from twenty-seven to thirty-five inches, while its weight strolls around to pounds. The American Bulldog crossed with Great Dane requires daily brushing to reduce dead hairs. It needs high-maintenance grooming from its nails, ears, and teeth. Due to its size, the American Dane requires constant training to maintain a healthy lifestyle. However, its low energy level limits its exercise to two to three walks per day. The American Chow Bulldog cannot handle extreme weather because of its dense coat. The Chow American Bulldog mix is fierce and protective of its family. However, its low energy level makes it hard to train. The American Chow Bulldog require fifteen to thirty minutes of daily exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle. There are not a lot of information about the history of the Border Collie Bulldog mix, but there is a lot of data available regarding its parents to help potential owners learn more about the American Collie. The American Bulldog crossed with Border Collie can prove to be a handful regarding grooming because of their constant shedding. The average size of an American Bull-Aussie is around nineteen to twenty-five inches and can weigh up to 70 to pounds. The Australian Shepherd mixed with American Bulldog breed is relatively new, which makes information scarce. The Dachshund Bulldog has a lifespan of eight to seventeen years if properly trained and treated. The Bulldog Dachsund mix makes for an interesting combination of the usually laid-back American Bulldog and the stubborn Dachshund. This is a rare and undocumented breed. Because of its excess skin, the Mini-Bulldog is also prone to fainting due to heat. Unlike most dogs, the Mini-Bulldog does not require too much exercise. Playing with it will suffice. The Mini-Bulldog is an excellent pet for all ages. The children will enjoy its playful nature while the elderly will find its quiet companionship comfortable. The American Bullpug also does not crave much attention compared to other breeds. It may be helpful to check the histories of both parents to get more knowledge about the American Bernard. Both Saint Bernard and the American Bulldog are examples of alpha dogs. Owners must establish themselves as the pack leader to make the exercises easy. When Saint Bernard is crossed with the American Bulldog, the size of the hybrid dog will adopt the size of the large breed. The American Bernard is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which makes fish oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin supplements a diet to maintain its health. The Cane Corso American Bulldog mix is a rare hybrid dog, which means its history is still unavailable. Both parent breeds have a history of being protective family pets. If Cane Corso mixed with American Bulldog puppies can get proper training, they can make for beautiful guard dogs for your home and your children. The Shar-Pei American Bulldog mix is about twelve to twenty inches in height and an approximate of forty to sixty-five pounds. The American Bulldog crossed with Shar Pei you want to get must come from a reputable breeder who will offer a guarantee that the puppy is healthy. Both parents have a rich history, which makes it easier for owners to research if they want the Shar-Pei American Bulldog mix. The American Bulldog Akita mix can live up to nine to eleven years. Bullkitas are known to be assertive yet sensitive animals that are attuned to their environment, which makes for an excellent trait for watchdogs. The Blue Heeler Bulldog mix is a vigilant and hardworking hybrid dog which require lots of exercises. It also needs to socialize with other dogs at an early age to avoid being shy and fearful. The Blue Heeler mixed with American Bulldog can live from eight to fifteen years. The American Heeler can develop health issues that are common from both parent breeds. Owners must buy puppies from a breeder who knows the history of both parents. The Olde Bulldog is a large dog that has low to moderate amount of shedding. It needs brushing at least twice a week to keep its coat healthy and free from dirt. It is vital for the Olde Bulldog to get constant amounts of exercise at a young age. Otherwise, it tends to become lazy and may enjoy long periods of naps. But the height and weight of the hybrid dog often come from the Golden Retriever. Both parent breeds have loving and faithful personalities, which make it very easy to train and to adapt to prominent families with children. There are limited publications about the American Bulldog Great Pyrenees mix. The Great Pyrenees mixed with American Bulldog make for a promising dog with large and muscular features. Both parents are known for their powerful protector instincts. The American Bulldog and Great Pyrenees mix is perfect for search-and-rescue teams or police watches. Despite its powerful stature, the American Bernese is a tender and friendly dog that devotes their life to their human pack. It does not like getting scolded and does not respond well to physical harm. Training an American Bernese requires patience and understanding. The Moutain Bulldog needs about four to five cups of high-quality dog food a day to keep up with its active lifestyle and high energy level. Teaching an American Bullypit requires the proper knowledge of raising the energetic breeds of both parents to make sure that the behavior emerging from the training is appropriate. It may become too oppressive and might need to be away from children and other pets. The popularity of Pitbull Bulldog mix in the s was because of their aggression and how they treat other dogs in crowded animal shelters, making it a controversial crossbreed. The eyes, ears, and teeth of a Bullpit require constant checking for infections. However, it is a low maintenance dog when it comes to grooming. Pet dog classified ads, local breeder networks, and online dog forums are ways to help an owner find American Bulldog and French Bulldog puppies. The French Bulldog and American Bulldog both have a complicated past. The French were driven out of England by the Industrial Revolution, while the American Bulldog was used for violent sports like bull-baiting. American Bulldog and French Bulldog puppies enjoy playtime with other dogs at the park. At an early age, they can run a speed similar to a human in a bicycle to fit their exercise needs. The Catahoula Bulldog is attentive to details. It is a perfect family pet and can get along with kids and other animals when appropriately trained. The Catahoula crossed with American Bulldog have tight skin with short, glossy coats. The Catahoula Bulldog is prone to suffering from dry nose, which can be irritable for your dog and may indicate more serious health issues. It is considered a toy dog because of its miniature size. The Bulldog Shih Tzu requires daily exercise that needs running like a game of fetch. The hybrid dog is known to over-eat, which makes it essential to exercise with the Bulldog Shih Tzu on a regular basis. The Shih Tzu Bulldog has medium hair that is easy to maintain. Brush its coat three times a week to keep it shiny and free of tangles. The Shih Tzu crossed with American Bulldog is a short-nosed dog, which makes it prone to breathing difficulties. The Doberman Bulldog weighs at an average of forty to ninety pounds. It can grow to about fourteen to twenty-eight inches, making it a gigantic dog. There is not a lot of information available for the Doberman crossed with American Bulldog, but both parent breeds have outstanding canine histories. The Doberman and the American Bulldog are active dogs, which means their offspring might need a lot of exercises to maintain its health. Unfortunately, the American Newfoundland is an obscure breed with little-documented information. Owners can look into the parent breeds to learn more about it. The Newfoundland is a capable and hardworking dog that can work on land and water. It is a great swimmer. American Bulldog Newfoundland puppies are hard to find but owners must talk to a reputable breeder and a veterinarian before crossing the two different parent breeds. Obesity is a health risk so make sure you stay away from worst dry dog food as the pooch can easily gain weight from eating it. Nutrient boosters like Nutra Thrive dog food supplement make sure your American Bulldog mix gets all the vitamins and minerals they need. Kibble that offers the right protein-to-fat ratio is always the way to go and best dry dog food promises to give your pooch the right amount of both. Caring for puppies means paying extra attention to their diet. Check out this list of best puppy food brands if you adopted an American Bulldog cross pup only recently. Feeding older dogs is a whole other story—older ladies and gentlemen require a different amount of nutrients so choosing among best senior dry dog food will help them keep their bones and muscles resilient and lean for longer. American Bulldog mixes come in a variety of sizes. His name is Riley. His job—shop dog. We are a scooter shop, and he greets dozens of folks every day. Riley has friends that bring him treats, or just drop in to say hi. He is really famous around Milwaukee. You would not believe how many people remember his name months later when they visit again—usually to see him. He is all white with 2 black spots over his eyes and a few on his nose and the tips of his ears. He is full of life, very intelligent and spoiled and will soon be starting K9 Bodyguard training. He weighs between and lbs. I grew up raising Rottweilers , Pomeranians , Australian Blue Heelers , Jack Russell Terriers and a range of mix breeds that my mother took in when owners would drop them off on their gravel road. He has been the kind of pet that you see in the movies when you are growing up, the one that is loyal, playful, loving and will not leave your side. Even as we speak and it is 2 a. His worst habits are trying to take up the entire couch and it doesn't matter if there are two people already on the couch before he gets on it. No matter what he always awaits permission and grunts when he wishes to climb on. He also has a habit of stretching out on the king sized bed in the middle of the night and pushing you out of his way with his feet. I am a lb. On the flip side, you will sometimes find him curled into a huge ball pressed up as close as possible to you in the morning. Tanner is prone to allergic reactions from his environment and because of this hives have been a common occurrence. We combat this with everything being washed and dried in hypoallergenic soaps and fabric softeners. Their food contains no soy, corn, wheat, and is gluten free which keeps him from having allergic reactions. She is an American Bulldog that weighs in at about 87 pounds. She loves to cuddle, children, play fetch, and her favorite thing is to sleep. She is the nicest and most loving dog I have ever had. She is really good with other dogs and always wants to play. Though I don't think she is that big of a dog others say she is of a pretty good size. She is also very strong, to find out how strong she was I start hooking her up to a harness and having her pull different stuff from around the house and yard. At one point I decided to hook her up to the car and put it in neutral and to my surprise she pulled it halfway down our driveway, which is about sixty feet. But once again she is by far the best dog for a family or just anyone. Though it did take me a little longer to train her than any other dogs, which is strange because she is very smart and has a great memory. She is the funniest dog that I have ever been around. She just does some of the stupidest stuff, like chasing the lawnmower around getting a mouth full of grass every time she tries to bite it, and the funniest is when I'm cleaning my car, she tries to attack the water coming out of the hose. She cracks me up. Leia the American Bulldog playing with the kids. It is agile on its feet and its chest is wide and somewhat deep. The neck is muscular and tapers from the shoulders to the head. The muzzle and head are square, large and broad with muscular cheeks. There is a defined furrow between their rounded eyes, with a distinct, sharply defined, deep stop. The compact frame of the American Bulldog remains higher on the leg, more agile and swifter than its English counterpart. Some individual dogs are reportedly able to leap six or more feet into the air. Discover more about our American Bulldog puppies for sale below. American Bulldog puppies should have a reverse scissors bite, but a moderate underbite, scissors, or even bite are acceptable. A variety of ear types are acceptable including cropped, rose, half-pricked and forward flap. Their eyes are most often brown but can come in any color. They sometimes have split eyes, where one eye is brown and the other eye is blue. The nose is black, red, brown or grizzle. The lips should be full but not too loose. The front legs are heavy-boned, strong and straight. The hindquarters should be very broad and thick with well-defined muscles. The tail is low-set, begins thick at the base, and tapers to a point. Males are characteristically stockier and heavier boned than the more refined females. The head is large with strong jaws. Agile and light on his feet, the chest is wide and moderately deep, giving the sense of athletic ability and power. Disposition The American Bulldog is loyal, reliable, brave and determined. Not a hostile dog. Alert and self-confident, this breed genuinely loves children. It is known for its acts of heroism toward its master. It has strong protective instincts and needs a firm, confident, consistent pack leader. Well-socialize and obedience train them at an early age, to prevent them from becoming reserved with strangers. Without that strong-minded pack leader who can tell the dog what is expected of it, it may be aggressive with other dogs. They need to be around people and know their place in their pack to be truly happy. This breed tends to drool and slobber. Without enough daily mental and physical exercise they will become high strung and may become hard to handle. Living Conditions American Bulldog puppies will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. Grooming The short, harsh coat is easy to groom. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, and bathe only when necessary. This breed is an average shedder. American Bulldog Origin The original American Bulldogs were not only used in the sport of bull-baiting but also by small farmers and ranchers who used them as all-around working dogs for many tasks including as guards and for hunting bear, wild boar, raccoon, and squirrel. The American version of the Bulldog has longer legs, is faster and has better agility than the English show dog. Thanks to the efforts of John D. Johnson of Summerville, Georgia, the American Bulldog exists today. He decided to gather the best specimens he could find from all across the rural South in an effort to bring the American Bulldog back from the brink of extinction. Johnson has been breeding these dogs longer than anyone else in the world, and his father bred them before him. He is the sole reason they exist today. If it were not for his efforts they would be extinct. See store for details on a particular puppy. American Pet Registry, Inc.