what to know about labradoodle puppies

what to know about labradoodle puppies

Their adorable curly fur and expressive faces make you want to cuddle them — and these little guys love nothing more than a good squish. All this and more makes our labradoodle puppies for sale one the most in-demand in our center. Activity-loving families adore these dogs for their propensity towards sports, and anyone who prefers low-shedding pooch benefits from their wooly or fleecy fur. Labradoodle puppies for sale are so cute and come in such a wide range of colors that it makes choosing your new best friend super-hard! While spearheading the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia breeding program, he conducted the crossbreeding of a standard poodle and Labrador retriever in view of it being a hypoallergenic guide dog for blind people. The first example of this type of dog, called Sultan, went to live with a lady in Hawaii, where other breeders saw him as an inspiration and this is how Australian Labradoodle puppies started. Both the International Australian Labradoodles Association and the Australian Labradoodles Association of America are working hard to incorporate more intergenerational breeding so these dog breeders can register this type of dog as a purebred dog. Its gentle, obedient and intelligent personality combined with a hypoallergenic coat make it ideal for family members with allergies, but it also makes an excellent service or therapy dog. Labradoodle Puppies Lifespan When properly taken care of, healthy dogs tend to live anywhere from 10 to 13 years. The lifespan of our Labradoodle puppies for sale is slightly above average at 12 to 14 years. Here are the life stages of multigenerational Australian Labradoodles: Puppyhood: First five months Adolescence: Between five months and two years Adulthood: Between two and three years Middle age: Between seven years and 10 years Senior: Over 10 years Labradoodles need the most attention and care in the first and last stages of their life. During puppyhood, their minds are highly impressionable, which is ideal for training. During their senior years, Labradoodles are more susceptible to health problems, which means owners need to keep a watchful eye. Labradoodle Size The size of labradoodle puppies for sale directly relates to the size of their parents and which generation of breed Labradoodle breeders chose. The larger the puppies, the larger the adult dog will be, and the faster their growth will be coming out of the puppy stage. A standard labradoodle puppy will weigh from pounds by the time it reaches two months of age. By a year old, it will have grown dramatically to up to 80 pounds, depending on the size of its parents. Medium Labradoodles occupy a spectrum of sizes between standard and mini Labradoodles, with the specifics depending heavily on the details of the breeding pair that birthed them and the breeding program they come from. Labradoodle Puppies Temperament While Labradoodle breeders originally bred the Australian Labradoodles as therapy dogs, their fun, friendly personalities made them popular pets. Now you can find these sociable dogs in homes across the globe. Here are some of the top personality traits of our Labradoodle puppies for sale. They tend to do best in active households where they can work off all that pent-up energy. You can fulfill their needs through the following activities: Walks or jogs: Labradoodles make great walking companions and can even keep up with you during a jog. Playing in the yard: Enjoy a game of fetch with your furry friend in the yard or just let it loose on its own. Dog sports: If you stay active through sports, consider making your labradoodle a part of your routine. Bring it on bike rides, go for a run together or kick a ball around in the yard. Obstacle courses: Set up an obstacle course for your dog using household items. Scavenger hunt: Creating a scavenger hunt for your canine is a great way to exercise its body and brain. In general, Labradoodles need anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day. You can also enroll them later at a Labradoodle puppy alumni school for proper training. Friendliness What makes Labradoodles the perfect puppy compare to other dog breeds is their ability to get along with just about anyone. They inherit this trait from their Labrador retriever parent, a breed also known for its outgoing nature. You can trust your labradoodle to form friendships with everyone, from children and older adults to strangers and other puppies. Thanks to their affectionate, sociable personalities, Labradoodles make great pets for first-time owners, families, or anyone looking for a companion. Intelligence Thanks to their poodle parent breeds, Labradoodles are incredibly intelligent dogs. Because Labradoodles are intelligent, they often crave mental stimulation. Labradoodle Puppies Grooming Our Labradoodle puppies for sale have a variety of coat textures that dog owners enjoy, but in general, their low shedding coat needs brushing at least twice a week. Not only does this keep them tangle-free but it also removes excess debris from their coat, keeping them fresh and hygienic. Regularly trim the hair around their eyes and in between their paws to prevent these problem areas from causing irritation. Pooches with fleece coats tend to have longer fur and benefit the most from going to a professional groomer — although every dog loves getting pampered once in a while. At Pride and Prejudoodles, we send a can and a bag of the foods we use for free with your hand-delivered bundle of joy. If you need to change it for any reason, it must be done gradually to avoid stomach upsets. Just bear in mind that a diet is such a crucial aspect of wellness that feeding them good quality food will add years to their lives compared to opting for low-quality feed. Pride and Prejudoodles is here to help. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Labradoodle puppies for adoption. Vocality level 3 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. They are generally very friendly and are an ideal best friend. Labradoodles are very playful and have a high energy level. Long walks, hiking or jogging will definitely be a part of your future life as dog-parent to a Labradoodle. These dogs tend to do well with children in the home, but sometimes are better suited for older kids since they could knock smaller family members over with their size and exuberance. Are you looking for a dog park buddy? The Labradoodle could be the perfect match for you! They usually like to play with other dogs, so a good romp with some canine friends is ideal for them, with proper oversight and introductions. They would be a good choice if you have other pets in the home, given their general good nature. Still, cautious introductions of new pets are always a must! Labradoodles usually want to please their parents, so can be easily trained with positive methods. Upkeep Labradoodles have a lot of energy to burn! You should expect to dedicate at least minutes per day to giving your Labradoodle an outlet for their energy, whether in the form of a structured walk, playing in the yard with them, training, or a trip to the dog park to socialize. Their enthusiasm could easily turn to destructive behavior if not given this outlet. They would do best in a home with a fenced yard, so this energetic dog may not be the best option if you have a low-energy apartment life. Grooming needs will vary, depending on whether your Labradoodle inherits smoother or curlier fur from the Labrador and Poodle breeds. You can expect to devote some time each week to regular brushing and bathing, but some may require a trip to a professional groomer every weeks.

What kind of diet do we give our pooches for a healthy weight? What you should never overfeed a dog? You should never ever overfeed your dogs too much carbs as they get stored as fat in the body if they are not used. Unfortunately, carbohydrates are much cheaper an ingredient as compared to the other nutrients like protein. Hence, they are often used by major large dog food manufacturers to make up the weight of dog food whilst keeping the prices of the dog food low. This is the main reason why pets all over the United States are getting obese. And, ironically, this became the driving forces behind the rise of these healthy pet food startups , as their founders seek to provide their own proper and much healthier alternatives. The high fiber content will make your dogs feel content faster and thus eat less. And since fiber does not get stored in the body like carbs do, it can be promising measure to keep your pooch's weight under control. Mathematically, eating less will reduce weight gain. However, it can easily lead to malnourishment if your dog is not given the proper nutrition. We are talking about nutrients beyond the common proteins and carbohydrates. They include omega fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, amino acids and many more! The key here is not to eat less. The key here is to maintain a balanced diet. And what constitutes a balanced diet? That requires a deep understanding and a wide study in the field of pet nutrition to truly determine it; so much that it warrants a university degree. To get the most balanced, holistic and healthiest dog foods , it is often better to leave it to the experts. Have you been scheduling your dog's meal time wrongly? And does it really matter? Scheduling your dog's meal time will tune their stomach to become hungry only at their meal times. Combining this with the right amount of dog food given to them, it will keep your dogs from becoming hungry out of meal hours. In turn, this will maintain their metabolism rate and utilize all the food they consume fully and appropriately. As a bonus, regular meal time will also discourage them from scavenging around the house like little vacuum cleaners as they grow accustomed to the amount of food they are given and to be used for the intervals between meal times. These food brands are not your typical corporate pet food manufacturers. These are pet food startups fueled by the passion from their pet enthusiasts founders who only want the best for all dogs under the sky. Each of them have came up with their own unique formula that will surely satisfy your dogs' taste buds without compromising their health. Click here or the button below to learn more about these bespoke food brands. Underweight and undernourishment is as real an issue as obesity among dogs. Underweight dogs appear thin and frail. And before you know it, they will start to lose all the hair on their coat and look like anything but a dog. These cases created a market of specialized dog food that help your dog to gain weight healthily. Here are 7 of the best dog foods for weight gain that can help your underweight dog get back its glory. Read more by clicking the button below. By 6 months, they are just about there. It takes a little longer for them to reach their mature weight. They are considered fully grown at 18 months. Mostly named for the breeders who created them, there are said to be four distinct varieties of American Bulldog today, and yes, they are slightly different sizes. Both taller 23 to 27 inches and more muscular up to pounds , they most closely resemble their cousin pups, the English Bulldog. They have longer muzzles and are more leanly built than the Johnson dogs. The Painter American Bulldog was unfortunately created exclusively for fighting purposes. These dogs are around the same height as the other two but much lighter 55 to 75 pounds. Their breeding was poorly done initially, but responsible facilities are now working on healthier dogs with better temperaments. They are said to be the true American Bulldogs. Again, they are a little smaller than the first two types at 21 to 26 inches and 60 to 97 pounds. Aside from these, there are various hybrid American Bulldogs that are a combination of two or more of the above. It can be tricky to predict the exact measurements of these dogs are genetics are complicated. Photo by Lucas Ludwig on Unsplash There also tend to be gender differences with these dogs, as is the case with larger, more muscular breeds. Females weigh 60 to 80 pounds and stand between 20 and 23 inches high. Males weigh 75 to pounds and are around 22 to 25 inches in height. American Bulldog Growth Patterns By the time these dogs are six months old, they are already close to their adult height. They will often reach this somewhere between 9 and 12 months but will continue to put on weight significantly into their first year. As large dogs, ABs are said to be at their mature size at around 18 months. Still, realistically male dogs on the larger end of the spectrum could continue to gain muscle mass right up to their second birthday and even beyond this. Check out these guides on best dog food for puppies here. Depending on their gender, their parents, and the kind of lifestyle they have working dog, active companion, family dog , an adult American Bulldog will be around 20 to 27 inches to the shoulder and will weigh somewhere between 55 to pounds. They are categorized as a large breed. You can calculate their potential adult weight at 23 weeks by taking what they weigh at that age and multiplying it by two. Large dogs are said to be fully grown at around 18 months of age. They will often achieve their mature height somewhat earlier than that at between 9 months to 12 months, depending on whether they are destined to be smaller or larger pups. However, they will continue to gain weight as their muscles develop for quite a while after this. This will especially be the case if they are getting plenty of exercise. Genetics provides the best understanding we have on this. American Bulldogs are gaining a better reputation these days as fun and friendly family dogs. They are especially beloved by particularly active individuals looking for a little company on their walks, hikes, runs, etc. Hopefully, this article has been able to address these, and you have a fair understanding of what to expect from your future puppy. Their senses of smell, touch, and taste are working but they cannot see or hear yet because their sense of sight and hearing are not developed. They depend on the mother for nutrition and warmth because the milk that the mother produces contains all the essential nutrients that the puppy needs and they cannot create their heat. Expect to see them sleeping and eating all day and they cannot walk as their muscles are not strong enough. The muscles will become strong, and they will start standing up, running, barking, and playing with their littermates. Their teeth will also start developing and will be ready to be fed solid foods. The puppy will gain control over the bladder and bowel movements and their coordination will also improve as they start exploring their surroundings. This is the stage to move them to their new home. Therefore, you should buy them chewing toys otherwise they will be inclined to use your shoes and furniture. This is also the stage when your puppy shows dominance and wants to be the leader of the pack. This is why proper training is needed so that they know you are the one in charge. For them to develop social skills, they should interact with other dogs at the park and other people. If you have not neutered or spayed your puppy, this is the right time to do so. Some puppies will reach their adult height and weight towards the month mark while others may still wait until the age of two years. Adult From the age of 18 months onwards, your American Bulldog will start filling out and reach their adult weight. They would have achieved most of their development but still need good nutrition for maintaining healthy bones and muscles. During their development into adulthood, your dog will go through emotional and mental stages of maturity and will soon develop a concrete personality. Continue feeding them a healthy diet and providing them with enough exercise for them to use their energy. There are ways that you can use to estimate how big your American Bulldog will get. First, if you bought your puppy from a breeder, ask them about their estimated adult size. Based on the information about the parents and previous litters, your breeder should be able to give you an estimate of the adult size of your American Bulldog. If you can visit the breeder and look at the parents, you will have a clear picture of what your puppy will look like when fully grown. Secondly, you can check the paws. If they seem oversized next to their body and legs, then they are still filling out and growing so that their whole body is proportional. Checking the American Bulldog weight chart will also give you an idea of their final weight as an adult. An American Bulldog stands at a height of between 20 and 27 inches with a weight of around 55 and pounds. American Bulldog Size Chart American Bulldogs are categorized as large breeds and weigh between 55 and pounds with a height of between 20 and 27 inches. Generally, females are smaller than males and they reach their adult size earlier. Locating the withers is the first step which is the highest point between the shoulder blades. Spaying or neutering is connected to growth because sex hormones are necessary for the growth of the American Bulldog. Neutering or spaying when young may be unnecessary, so you should wait until the puppy reaches the first heat cycle especially if you have no plans of breeding them. Speak to your vet on when specifically, to spay or neuter your American Bulldog. Pros Neutering or spaying prevents testicular and ovarian cancer respectively. Spaying prevents unwanted pregnancies and reduces UTIs. Neutering helps manage their behavior because they will not wander or develop aggressive behavior. Cons Neutering or spaying can affect growth if done too early. The American bulldogs are large and weigh about 55 to pounds. The male American Bulldog is larger and weighs between 66 and pounds and the female American Bulldog weighs between 55 and 90 pounds. The American Bulldogs grow tall about 20 to 27 inches at the shoulders. The male American Bulldogs are larger. The males weigh between 30 and 60 pounds while the female Pitbull weighs about 30 to 50 pounds. Pitbull is also shorter than the American Bulldogs. Their height is between 17 and 20 inches. Genetic traits greatly influence the development of the American Bulldog. The growth rate is regulated by these biological determinants and other important factors that help in their advancement. Females are smaller than their male counterparts. Nutrition As a responsible pet parent, your dog needs the most nutritious food available on the market. This is because there is a lot of low-quality food that does not have enough nutrients. The food the American Bulldog will get from you determines his ability to grow. If you provide him with low-quality food, he will have stunted growth. Low-quality food does not have sufficient vitamins as well as minerals needed for development. The diet you provide to your dog affects his growth and general life quality. They love physical activities. Allow them to exercise enough so that they grow enough muscles and strong bones. Exercise will help your puppy to grow naturally and meet its developmental milestones. American Bulldogs enjoy several activities. American Bulldogs enjoy these activities, and they require enough time for this. A high-quality meal is an important aspect for every puppy. Without good nutrition, the puppy cannot grow to be a strong and healthy adult. The growing American Bulldog has a big appetite and should be fed several meals per day: Puppies under four months need four meals a day adding to a total of 3 cups From 4 to 10 months give three meals a day and up to 5 cups. After 10 months give 2 meals a day around cups. Feeding the puppy large meals increases the risk of bloating, a fatal stomach condition seen in large dogs. Dogs who lead a very active lifestyle will burn more calories. The first way to determine if your American Bulldog is overweight or underweight is by weighing them. You may also observe their behavioral habits, feel their bodies, and see the vet. When you look at your American Bulldog, you should see the tuck behind the chest cavity. It should also have a visible waist when you view it from above. Your American Bulldog is overweight if you cannot feel the ribs and the spine. But if the ribs and the spine are visible, they are underweight. They may also have trouble breathing and get less active due to excess weight. When you are not familiar with this breed, you may be surprised to know that they are prone to certain health conditions. Understanding their health issues is crucial to get informed decisions about their health. The American Bulldogs have short snouts hence making them difficult to withstand hot weather, especially during physical activity. Ensure that there is enough water and monitor to ensure they are not having any breathing difficulty. The American Bulldogs undergo certain medical conditions: Hip Dysplasia is one of the most skeletal conditions in dogs. Panosteitis or Growing pan is a medical condition that causes lameness and pain in young dogs. The causes of this condition are found to be infectious agents and genetics as well as nutrition. The American Bulldog however can outgrow this disease as they get older. It also does not cause long-term effects. Every dog can get growing pains. The symptoms include shifting legs lameness, pain, lethargy, fever, depression, and loss of appetite. If the vet rules out any other underlying conditions, you may need to localize the pain to one of the long bones in the leg. Your vet may also recommend anti-inflammatory pain medication to give to your dog. You can tell if your American Bulldog is an ideal weight when you can see the ribs during breathing. An overweight American Bulldog is naturally weighing more than the indicated range. When in his calm state you should see his last two ribs. It also has a tuck where the stomach comes up higher than the ribcage. If the hip points show more of the vertebrae, then he is underweight. Reduce exercises. The American Bulldogs need puppy food when they are young and can be moved to grown-up food after one year to help in their weight control. When you stick to the feeding suggestion in the food, your dog will avoid avoiding obesity or other medical problems. It is good to avoid high-fat treats and provide a good choice of treats such as carrots. Treats made with proteins are also a good choice in helping them get in shape. When your American Bulldog is overweight change the diet to low calories ad high protein and has no carbs because they function as pointless fillers. Exercise your American Bulldog regularly but ensure you do not overdo it to prevent joint strains. You can determine your American Bulldog weight using two methods; The most accurate method to use is using a dog weighing scale. Using the scale is important in monitoring the growth of your American Bulldog regularly to detect any early abnormal growth. The scale will help you to weigh your dog without any hassle. The second method is using your bathroom scale. You weigh yourself when holding your American Bulldog and record the readings. Then weigh yourself using the same scale without your American Bulldog. Then you subtract your weight when not holding the dog from the weight with the dog, and the difference is the weight of your American Bulldog. American Bulldog Genetics and Common Health Problems Hip and elbow dysplasia is an inherited disease that leads to joints developing improperly causing arthritis. The dog may begin to show lameness in the legs or difficulty when getting up from lying. Surgery is a good option in extreme cases. Nerve disease is a progressive neurologic disease that can be found in the American Bulldog. The signs usually appear in younger dogs where there is a rear leg weakness and imbalance. This disease has no effective treatment, but you can perform a genetic test. Dogs with this genetic condition should not be used for breeding. A thyroid problem is a condition where the body does not make enough thyroid hormone. The signs of this condition include hair loss, dry coat, and skin, weight gain, susceptibility to other skin diseases, aggression, and fearfulness. Blood screening can help detect disease. Ichthyosis is a common problem where there is dry, itchy, and flaky skin. The American Bulls are prone to severe sin flaking conditions. It usually arises early in life with most affected puppies born with abnormal skin. A genetic test will help determine whether a puppy is clear of this condition. Other conditions include cataracts, mange, and bladder or kidney stones. Final Words Understanding the different factors that can impact the growth of your American Bulldog will ensure that you are well equipped on how you can help them achieve their growth and development. You should be aware of the different health conditions that this breed is susceptible to so that you can notice the early signs and provide them with the necessary treatment. Your American Bulldog should maintain a healthy weight throughout for them to have a happy and healthy life. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. The weight of your American Bulldog female is, on average, between .If you are wondering what size an American Bulldog female should be at age one: Inputs are .The female American Bulldog will eventually reach her full size between the ages of 16 months and 19 months. Male American Bulldogs at three months of age should range from around .At six months of age, the typical male American Bulldog weighs between .What size an American Bulldog male must be at one year of age, is dictated by the general size of the pup, as well as of the parents. However, the average adult weight is from 29 to .If you are interested at what age the male American bulldogs will eventually reach their full size, the answer is simple: between the ages of 16 months and 19 months. When you can see the rib cage when the American Bulldog is breathing, you know he is at his proper weight. Although overweight dogs would inevitably weigh higher than the suggested weight range, this is not the optimal size for them. If your dog is relaxed, you should be able to see his final two ribs. His stomach should be tucked up so that it is higher than his ribs. On the contrary, when the hip bones and the majority of the vertebrae are visible, the dog is underweight. If you physically see that your dog is gaining weight, the best way to manage it is to cut down on treats and to give your pet more chances for a tiring physical activity. American Bulldogs from Scott often have a smaller size than those from Johnson. However, compared to English or French bulldogs, American bulldogs are taller. The average height of an American Bulldog male, measured from the top of his shoulder is between 20 and 28 inches at the withers. It seems unlikely that the robust American bulldog has any health problems when one looks at him. A dog may greatly benefit from a nutritious diet and enough activity to preserve his excellent health, and yet every dog, regardless of breed, has possible health hazards. These problems for the American bulldog that may affect its growth involve hip dysplasia and thyroid problems. The lifespan of the American Bulldog usually ranges from 10 to 15 years of age. That means, for a large dog breed, that they are a healthy one. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia, being one of the most prevalent skeletal diseases in dogs, only affects a small percentage of large breed dogs, including the American bulldog. But what does hip dysplasia have to do with the growth of the American Bulldog? The diagnosis of hip dysplasia must be confirmed by radiographs, and the course of therapy will depend on the size, age, and severity of the disease in your dog. While some elderly dogs need joint replacements, young pups might benefit from hip rotation surgery. Thyroid Deficiency The thyroid is an endocrine gland that dictates the functions of an organism. Many veterinarians say that the thyroid gland is the CEO of the whole organism, because it dictates the speed and the volume of the way things function in the body. The genetic condition of hypothyroidism, which is caused by a deficit in the thyroid hormone, is common among medium and large breed dogs. Having hypothyroidism and generally a slower metabolism means that there is a possibility that the dog will grow shorter than it should. The front of the chest and neck, sides of the body, sides of the thighs, and tail are among the areas that experience weight increase and hair loss as symptoms. Another symptom of hypothyroidism is a slower heartbeat, cold sensitivity, tiredness, and dry, thick, swollen skin. Though the illness is irreversible, it can be managed with an artificial hormone treatment given twice daily. A blood test aids in diagnosis. However, Fear Not, Because… …The mere fact that a dog is susceptible to a condition does not guarantee that the dog will develop that health issue. Knowing everything your American bulldog could be susceptible to, can help you stay alert and keep an eye out for any symptoms of an illness he might be developing. Therefore, choosing a reputable breeder who takes great care of the litters as well of the parent dogs, will do the job. Your American Bulldog size, and general well-being, both physical and emotional are determined by those initial two months that it spends with the breeder. Choose your breeder wisely! Note that, when your female American Bulldog is in a heat cycle , it can be more sensitive, therefore more prone to catch a cold. Please take special care of her when in this phase. Final Word American Bulldogs take pleasure in using their many natural athletic talents, which include agility, weightlifting, hunting, and agricultural labor. Growing young, American Bulldogs may either be exceedingly amiable or distant and even hostile. How much socializing they receive as puppies greatly influences how amiable they are. Unfortunately, bulldogs are sometimes grouped with the misunderstood Pitbull, giving this lovable and charming dog a terrible reputation for no good reason. Your dog may need extra attention and training to become a living illustration of how absurd these assumptions may be. An American Bulldog growth chart is presented, in order for you to take a closer look while your pup is growing up. There are some differences between male dogs and female dogs, but that is almost obligatory between littermates. It is important to invest in great quality food, so your pup or your adult dog will be able to get all the valuable nutrients for the day. A few tips on the weight of the puppy American bulldog, during its growth: Growth of American bulldog female: According to its size, the weight of the American bulldog female at 3 months should be between .At 6 months, the American bulldog female weighs on average between .How much must a American bulldog Female at 1 year? Enter .The American bulldog female will end up growing between the age of 16 months for the smallest sizes and the age of 19 month for the bigger ones. Growth graph of American bulldog female: See all weighings of American bulldog - Female saved by users. Add your dog's weighings and compare them to other registered dogs Growth of American bulldog male: According to its size, the weight of the American bulldog male at 3 months should be between .At 6 months, the American bulldog male weighs on average between .How much must a American bulldog male at 1 year? Between 29 and .The American bulldog male will end up growing between the age of 16 months for the smallest sizes and the age of 19 month for the bigger ones. Growth graph of American bulldog male: See all weighings of American bulldog - Male saved by users. These charts show the average growth and weight gain rate of an American Bulldog. Please note this is not an exact science and you will see differences depending on bloodline and type of American Bulldog. Still this should be a helpful guide. We have been tracking the weight and growth of our American Bulldogs for a while now and have tracked it on this nice weight and growth chart. Is my American Bulldog growing at a normal rate? What size should my American Bulldog be? The average growth and weights for our american bulldogs and puppies Use these dog weight charts and growth charts as guidelines if you are trying to see how your puppy is growing. Below are a few dogs that we kept track of their stats. Since American Bulldogs are know to have a huge head we thought it would be fun to track the size and growth of head size. American Bulldog head size weight and growth chart How to Measure American Bulldog Weight To measure your dogs weight they should be at an ideal weight. A fat dog is naturally going to weigh more but that is not their natural size. To be at their ideal weight you should be able to see the ribs when they are breathing heavy. If the dog is in a clam state the last 2 ribs should be visible. Your American Bulldog should have a tuck where the stomach comes up higher than the rib cage. You dog is under weight if there are hip points and you can see most of the vertebrae. All our dogs weights were taken at ideal weight. How to Measure American Bulldog Head size Best way to measure the head size is with a mayo tape or a soft tape measure. Wrap the tape measure firmly around the widest part of the skull. Dog should be calm and not panting or you could get a false measurement. Also keep in mind if your American Bulldog is over weight their head is going to measure larger just like a humans face is bigger when over weight. It always best to keep your dog at optimal weight is best for the dogs health. Withers are the top of the dogs shoulder blades. If its hard to get your American Bulldog to stay still, have them stand next to a wall then place a pencil flat on top of their shoulders and draw a line. Then measure from the floor to your line. How to Measure American Bulldog Length To get your dogs length measure from the withers to the base of the tail. So length is not from tip of nose to tip of tail. Learn more about the American Bulldog and upcoming American Bulldog shows at www. Hip dysplasia Premature death You can make your American Bulldog look bigger and stronger by investing time into his fitness. Taking him running, doing weight pulling, trying out a sport such as agility training or taking him swimming will all increase his muscle mass. By feeding him a high-quality diet with a lot of protein, his body will change the quickest. At what age is an American Bulldog fully grown? This breed is full-grown around the age of 18 months. If you continue exercising your dog diligently, he will bulk up more. When a dog is spayed or neutered, this interrupts the hormone production. Male and female sexual hormones function in signaling the body when to stop growing. Dogs that are spayed or neutered early in life actually will become taller and grow longer than their intact littermates. This difference is less pronounced in females. How much food should my Bulldog puppy eat to become tall? Feeding growing puppies with high-quality food is extremely important — if you do not provide adequate nutrition, your dog cannot grow up to become a strong and healthy adult. Growing American Bulldog puppies will have a big appetite! You should feed your pup several meals a day. For puppies under 4 months: feed 4 meals a day For puppies from months: feed 3 meals a day After 10 months: feed 2 meals a day You should never switch to feeding just one large meal every day. On the one hand, this can lead to low blood sugar in your dog as the time interval between the feedings is too long. On the other hand, feeding very large meals and having your very hungry dog scarfe them down increases the risk for bloat, a potentially fatal stomach torsion seen in large dogs. As far as total feeding amounts, plan to feed your American Bulldog puppy: 3 cups per day until 4 months of age Up to 5 cups per day between months cups a day for adults over 12 months If you lead a very active lifestyle, your dog will burn more calories than if you have a more sedentary lifestyle. Any kind of dog sport or special activity you do with your dog is going to require him to take in additional calories. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.

My name is Sweetheart, and I have been fortunate enough to cross paths with a couple of wonderful humans who have showered me with endless care and affection. Sometimes, I get excited around other dogs during our first encounters, I tend to get a little hyper. But don't worry, as I quickly settle down and become the gentle and calm companion you would expect from a sweet soul like mine. Despite my mischievous side, I promise I won't cause any destruction. Instead, I have a tendency to collect your belongings and bring them to my cozy bed, finding comfort in their presence. Sometimes, my human discovers their shoes nestled beside me, but it's just my way of snuggling up to something familiar. When I find myself in solitude, inside my special space, I don't bark incessantly. Occasionally, I let out a gentle whine, longing for a little extra love and companionship. If there's a special place in your home and heart for a furry companion like me, I'll fill it with unconditional adoration, using my paws to gently remind you that love is always just a touch away. Boxer puppies for sale Nashville, Tennessee Boxer puppies for sale Nashville, Tennessee Introduction of the Boxer The Boxer dog breed originated in Germany and has been around since the late 19th century. His main purpose is for hunting large game. But this dog breed was also useful in guarding and driving livestock. It is said that he got his name due to using his front paws for just about anything. Boxer dogs look intimidating with their stern-looking faces and powerful bodies. But they are actually very loving family dogs that get along with children and other animals. They love being with their families, and being separated from them can lead them to develop separation anxiety. Since this working dog is highly intelligent but stubborn in nature, he is better suited for experienced owners. The average lifespan of the breed is 9—10 years. Look for a boxer puppies for sale Nashville Tennessee? Here is a brief background of this protective dog with a good sense of humour. History of the Boxer The Boxer dog breed is a descendant of the now-extinct Bullenbeisser a fighting dog with Mastiff ancestry and the Old English Bulldog. He was developed in Germany in the 19th century as hunters of deer, wild boar, and bear. Later on, he was used to guard and drive cattle. The man responsible for the creation of the Boxer breed was Georg Alt, who was from Munich. He crossed a brindle-coloured female Bullenbeisser named Flora with a local dog of unknown breed. In , the first German Boxer dog named Flocki joined a dog show in Munich. After winning the dog show, he was the first-ever Boxer dog to be listed down in the German Studbook. Modern Boxer dogs were believed to be the descendants of Flocki. Boxer puppies for sale in Nashville TN The Boxer dog breed slowly gained popularity throughout Europe in the late s. He was then imported to the United States in and was accepted by the American Kennel Club the following year. The American Boxer Club was established in .In both world wars, various military tasks were given to Boxer dogs including guard dogs, attack dogs, and messenger dogs. The British Boxer Dog Club was then formed in .The Boxer breed was recognised by the Kennel Club shortly thereafter and classified under the Working Group. Versatile and hard-working, these dogs are capable of carrying out different canine work. Boxers are good choices for protection dogs, police dogs, service dogs, and guide dogs for the blind. Temperament and Intelligence of the Boxer puppies Nashville for sale Extremely patient and gentle, the Boxer breed is good with children. But he is recommended for families with older children as he may accidentally knock over toddlers. Befriending other pets is possible if the Boxer dog is properly socialised at a young age. It will keep him from viewing small animals as prey and reduce his tendency to dominate same-sex dogs. Is a Boxer a good family dog? Yes, the Boxer breed is a good family dog. He may look noble and intimidating, but he is actually considered the Joker of the Dog World. Boxer dogs are playful and fun-loving. They love to be part of family activities and be the centre of attention. Are Boxer dogs dangerous? Boxer dogs may be tough-looking, but they are not generally aggressive. But they will stand guard and defend their families if necessary. Boxer dogs are initially wary of strangers, but they eventually warm up to them if no danger is detected. Their protective and loyal nature makes them good guard dogs as well as watchdogs. Are Boxers easy to train? Yes, Boxer dogs are easy to train if you are already experienced in handling the breed. They are intelligent but tend to be independent and stubborn. Due to this, they are not suited for first-time owners. Boxer dogs respond better to people that are firm and consistent. However, firm does not mean harsh. Instead of strict training methods, positive reinforcements are more effective in teaching this breed basic dog manners and tricks. Boxer Breed Highlights The Boxer dog breed is a loving, loyal, and protective companion. Boxer dogs are comical companions despite their intimidating appearance. The Boxer breed has low-maintenance grooming needs. As an energetic working dog, he has high exercise needs. Boxer dogs tend to be destructive when they are left alone or unable to let off steam. Are there miniature boxers? Yes, but they are rare. Miniature boxers are either a product of mating purebred runts or cross-breeding small dogs that have similar characteristics to boxers, such as Boston terriers, pugs, rat terriers, and fox terriers. While some of these minis may closely resemble their larger counterparts, they may not act similarly. Are boxers hypoallergenic? Unfortunately, boxers are not hypoallergenic. What problems do Boxers have? Boxer dogs are brachycephalic, which means they have flat faces. This trait narrows their airway and causes breathing problems. As a result, Boxers should not be out in the sun for a long time as it can lead to heatstroke. Overexercising them must be avoided too to avoid triggering breathing difficulties. How long do Boxer dogs live? The Boxer dog breed has a short lifespan compared to other dogs. He can only live up to 9—10 years, and this is due to the prevalence of health issues in the breed. When buying a Boxer puppy, look for a reputable breeder whose breeding stock and litters are health-screened. This will help you determine how likely is your chosen Boxer puppy going to develop certain health conditions. The city grew quickly due to its strategic location as a port on the Cumberland River and, in the 19th century, a railroad center. Nashville seceded with Tennessee during the American Civil War, in it was the first state capital in the Confederacy to fall to Union troops. After the war, the city reclaimed its position and developed a manufacturing base. Wiki Nashville Drop us a line! We will not send you unnecessary notices in the future. My name is Tetyana and I am glad to welcome you on the site of the breed nursery. Welcome to the Tennessee state page on TrustedPuppies. Famed for its rich musical history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality, Tennessee is a fantastic place to find and raise your new Boxer companion. Our goal is to connect you with the most exceptional Boxer breeders and puppies for sale in the region, ensuring you find the perfect furry friend for your family. Our site features a wide variety of reputable breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our Tennessee breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. Discover the vibrant dog-friendly scene in Tennessee, featuring inviting restaurants, spacious dog parks, and engaging dog shows. For those passionate about dog shows, events like the Nashville Kennel Club Dog Show provide an opportunity to appreciate the elegance and charm of Boxer canines while connecting with fellow enthusiasts. With an estimated thousand dogs residing in the state, Tennessee ranks 27th in the nation for dog ownership. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable Boxer breeders provide safe and affordable flight delivery, complete with a dedicated flight nanny who accompanies your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring their safety and comfort as they travel to their new home in Tennessee. Many breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery, utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option allows your Boxer puppy to be transported directly to your door by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet transportation. Begin your search for the perfect Boxer puppy on TrustedPuppies.

Second Chance - Danielle Steel. In life and love, it's never too late for a second chance.As editor-in-chief of New York's leading fashion magazine, Fiona Monaghan was utterly content with her life, jetting back and forth between Manhattan and Europe-until the day John Anderson strolled into her office. A widower with two daughters, John was as conservative as Fiona was freewheeling, and was both amused and appalled by her world of high-strung designers, anorexic models, and Sir Winston, her snoring bulldog. But after Fiona impulsively invited John to the Paris couture shows, somewhere between the magic of the catwalk and the stroll along the Seine, she let him into her heart. Within weeks of their return to New York, John was making friends with Sir Winston - and Fiona was making room in her closets. A dazzling tale of modern misadventures, career-crossed relationships, the heady magic of instant attraction and the hope that comes when we dare to do it all over again.Second-hand book. REF: .This book will be removed when sold. Our Bulldogs have free range on our hectare farm, where they have ample space to thoroughly enjoy their daily walks and swimming in the dams. In the heat of a summer, our dogs have a much needed escape from the sun in our Wattlegrove forest. The only enclosure we use are is a huge comfortable area for any females in season. Click here for more information… Click to view our latest puppies. About our dogs and other animals. All our English Bulldog puppies are microchipped and vaccinated before being handed over to their new owners. We encourage and nurture a pack environment where all dogs interact with each other so that their socialising skills and confidence are in balance. Socialising also includes the interaction between the other farm animals, including our cats, chickens, ducks, turkeys, Alpacas, horses and our herd of specialist indigenous veld goats. We understand that it is impossible to breed a perfect dog, however, our methods ensure our dogs are healthy and happy as possible and are raised in a loving and calm environment. Please feel free to contact Ross if you wish to meet us and our animals. Share this page with your friends: About Bulldogs.

We make your puppy adoption process easy! Just follow these three easy steps and you'll have your new puppy safe and sound in no time. Step 1 Find the perfect Golden Retriever puppy! Browse through the puppies on our website or contact us if you don't see what you're looking for. Step 2 Pick up your puppy or we'll bring it to you! We can arrange a convenient meeting place or we can hand deliver your new puppy right to your home. Step 3 Bond with your new puppy. We're here to help! If you have any health-related questions or tips on getting your new puppy used to his new home just let us know! Check out some of the feedback we've gotten from our adopting puppy parents below. Christina Ortiz August 22, At first I was skeptical due to so many scans out there. Also my puppy came from an Amish family in Ohio so requested cash only and landline communication only. I drove miles and took my chances and they were so communicative and really nice family. They answered all my concerns and so did Gold Star Pups and would respond within the hour. My puppy been check by the vet and is healthy and well and super loving and sweet. I ended up changing his name from Prince to Miles because it took Miles to get this little guy. Thank you so much and have already recommended this site to others. He has been such a joy and he even goes to work with me! Easy process for purchasing. I had no issues at all. Ashley Barns August 21, thank you soooo much gold star puppies! Karen Zeigler August 14, I was concerned about buying a dog on line, but I quickly learned that Lancaster puppies only use reputable stores, not puppy mills. Gold Star was helpful, trustworthy, and did everything they promised. My puppy is smart, and healthy. She is sound minded and I absolutely love her. Sharon Secrest August 14, Gold Star puppies is the best! They walked us through each step on purchasing our forever puppy We highly recommend them! Thank-you Gold Star! The process was very easy! I had him delivered to Arizona. The delivery service guys were great on updating me when they would be arriving. Leo is been great and is adjusting well! Thanks gold star pups! Madison Chrisman June 12, We love our sweet puppy we got! Gold Star pups is a "middle man" for the Amish breeder. However, our little puppy came from a very nice farm and super nice people. She was exactly what we thought she would be. These people were very nice and professional and worked with me on price and pick up. I would definitely buy another puppy from here. Here is our sweet Rue, a mini bernadoodle! He came to us healthy and happy and we are surprised at what he knows, from fetching a ball to potty training. .Highly recommend working with them if you are looking for an awesome puppy. Janette Mac February 21, She is so adorable. .I got my 2nd fur baby from gold star pups LLC and we are so happy with everything. .Looking forward to get our next fur baby's soon!!! They made everything so easy and took care of everything needed to get our puppy home. Thank you Gold Star Pups for this adorable addition to our family. We might have another breed of puppy that would also be a perfect fit for you! Check out all our gorgeous pups and give us a call if you need any help. She was one scared little girl but let me tell you how she has changed in this short period of time!! Initially, Molly wouldn't come out of her crate, put on a collar, make any eye contact or socialize at all. With the help of her "foster brother and sisters", some love and time, she now will do her business outside and is excited to tell you about it, plays with toys, loves playing inside or outside, plays chase with her fosters, makes eye contact and knows the come command. Molly loves snuggle time and will let you know, with a little nudge, that she wants more scratches. She will rest her head on your lap while you brush her down. She has shown no signs of being destructive while out and about in her foster home. We are working on her leash training, sit command and mastering her potty training. She is no longer afraid to put on a harness and will soon know what it means "we are going for a walk". Molly stills needs to drink more water on her own. Molly may take some time to warm up to you, but once she does, you will have yourself a compassionate, lover girl. The adoption fee covers a portion of these services, and makes it possible for us to continue rescuing animals. An application does not obligate you to adopt. Please understand that due to the volume of applications some animals receive, we are unable to contact all applicants. If your application is considered a good fit for the animal you are interested in, or even a different pet, a volunteer will give you a call as soon as possible. We are a foster based rescue and do not have a shelter location where animals can be seen during the week. Not all animals attend every adoption event, please check our Facebook page for animal event times and locations before you make a trip to meet a specific animal.

Based in the Los Angeles, California metro area, Sheri has over 20 years of dog training experience and also runs a general dog training practice specializing in rehabilitating dogs through positive reinforcement training techniques. Keep the puppy on their back, and you kind of hold it like a baby. So long as the puppy isn't flailing, they're comfortable. We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full price—wine, food delivery, clothing and more. Claim Your Gift If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. Support wikiHow Not Helpful 5 Helpful 9 Question My 70 lb dog has injured his back and has been told to rest and not use stairs. How can I carry him? She graduated from the University of Glasgow in with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years. Veterinarian Expert Answer Lifting a 70 lb dog is definitely a two person job. Your aim is to support his back and keep it parallel to the ground. Have one person lift the rear end and one the front end. Then on a count of three both straighten your knees and stand. You will need to block off the stairs so the dog can't go up and down by himself. If the dog usually sleeps upstairs, then consider moving his bed downstairs, and if necessary sleeping beside him. Support wikiHow. But did you know there's a proper way to pick up and carry a dog? From puppies to older dogs with health issues , they all have ways they prefer to be carried and ways that should be avoided. How to Carry a Large Dog If you need to pick up a large dog, remember to bend at your knees first rather than at your waist. Wrap one of your arms across his front supporting his chest in front of his front legs but below his throat. Just like with any heavy item, you'll want to lift with your legs and not your back. This is a good rule of thumb for carrying a dog that weighs 20 pounds or more. If your dog weighs more than 40 pounds, you'll likely want to get a second person to help you lift him, with one person supporting the front of the dog and the other supporting the back. How to Carry a Small Dog You'll need to use a different approach for smaller dogs and "long" dogs, like Dachshunds. Start by kneeling or squatting near your dog. Take your other hand and place it behind her rump. Make sure you have a secure grip and slowly lift up your dog while you stand to your feet. Pull your dog close to your chest as you carry her so she feels secure. How to Carry a Puppy For puppies , it's extra important to pick them up correctly from the start. Helping your puppy have positive experiences when picked up will make your dog more amenable to being carried as an adult. Focus on carrying your puppy in the way that's most comfortable. If your little puppy is so small that he fits in one hand, you can simply place your hand under his chest, with your fingers facing his head and your hand supporting his chest. Carry him close to your chest so he's not scared by how high he is off the ground and to prevent an accidental fall. In those cases, you might want to put a muzzle on your dog first. Even the nicest dog might accidentally nip when in pain. If your older dog has arthritis or another health condition, you'll typically still want to pick her up using the same methods described for carrying a larger dog. But in some situations, you might need the help of a lifting harness designed for dogs. Check with your veterinarian first since your vet knows your dog's specific situation best. You may also want to make life easier for your dog by setting up stairs and ramps that help her avoid needing to be carried around the house at all. Instead of picking her up to put her on the bed, for example, set up dog-friendly stairs or a ramp, so she can comfortably come and go as she pleases. Do the same with furniture or even your car. You might also want to use one of the products listed below so you can carry her more easily. Use a Product Designed to Carry a Dog Once you've successfully picked up your pup, you may need something to carry your dog in if you're going far. The basket itself comes with a front bicycle mount. The small-sized basket is for dogs up to 10 pounds, and the large-sized basket is for dogs up to 20 pounds. Attach a Travel Bike Basket Hood to protect your pup from the sun and elements. You might also consider the Travel Bike Backpack for Pet. This includes a front mount to attach to your bicycle. You can also wear the backpack while you're out walking or hiking, taking your pet safely with you wherever you go. The backpack is designed for teacup-sized and small dogs. It comes with side pockets and a mesh doorway for your dog to watch the world outside. Both can be buckled into your car. This has both a handle and a carrying strap for convenience. How Not to Pick Up a Dog While there are many tips on the best way to carry your dog, it's important to also keep in mind what you should never do, regardless of your dog's size. First, don't ever lift your dog by his front legs or right under his armpits, like he's a doll. This puts far too much weight on the elbow and shoulders and could injure him. Also, don't lift your dog by the scruff of his neck. Watch for signs that your dog is uncomfortable with how he's being carried. He might yelp if he's in a lot of pain, but not necessarily. You might also want to use a command and treats when picking up your dog so he's not surprised by the action. Over time, he'll learn the command means he's about to be carried, and he'll be prepared for the experience. Picking up and carrying a dog is actually trickier than you might think. But if you use the right approach, your dog will feel comfortable, secure and won't squirm and wiggle as much the next time you need to carry him somewhere. The Farmer's Dog. Williams, Sheri. Marshall-Polimeni, Amanda. PetMD Editorial. Vogelsang, Jessica. Pick one up incorrectly, however, and you risk causing injury or losing her trust. So what precisely, is the correct way to pick up that little ball of fluff? Soon, the puppy or kitten will see that being picked up and held has a purpose and is a part of the bond you share. Heights can be scary for baby animals. How to Know If Your Technique Is Wrong Cats and dogs naturally wiggle when picked up, says Jeffrey, whose professional interests include preventative care. It just may mean they don't want to be held. This can cause more overt evasive behavior or fear. Flaying or crying out can also indicate pain or a sense of not feeling feel safe, says Dr. Then try again in a different manner being more gentle or supportive. Every puppy and kitten is different and each will have a preferred method of being picked up and held. But doing this can have serious consequences. Learning the correct way to pick up and hold a puppy or kitten can help prevent injury and fatality—and help strengthen your bond for years to come. Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? I am new to this forum so should introduce myself. As you can imagine its left an uneasy quietness to the house so we are looking for her successor In our home its my wife, myself and our 8 yr old daughter and 6 yr old son. He says he breeds only for good disposition only as any good breeder should and our quick meeting with parents it looked to be accurate. The dad was in a large outdoor kennel and looked to be very friendly. She did a quick snarl when we first got near which I have to give a pass as i'm sure she's just being protective, right? After the breeder told her its OK she calmed right down. Anyways, there are 4 females that we get first pick of when we go back. Of course training and exercise play a huge role in this so that we'll have covered. Does it still hold true that when you are looking at the liter to see which ones come to you and let you hold them on their back and settle after a short period to determine good nature rather than overly squirmy? Such a big decision i just wanted to make sure we do this right. We were so spoiled with our last pup its hard to compare! Proud Dog Mom 6 years ago Picking up and carrying your dog may not seem like a complicated task, but a lot of pet parents surprisingly do it wrong. To avoid injury or stress to your pup, check out the following video by MercolaHealthyPets. Plus, keep reading below for some tips on what not to do! I mean, imagine if someone just walked over to you, scooped you up in their arms, and took you away from wherever you were standing … without any notice. The key with verbal cues is consistency. So once you choose a word — stick with it! Tiny Dogs If you have little guys like me I have a 5lb Chihuahua and Toy Poodle , you can get away with a one arm lift. Then, as you lift him up, tuck his tooshie between your arm and body to keep him fully supported. Medium Dogs Put your dominant arm behind his back legs and wrap your other arm around the front of his chest. Hold your dog closely against your chest as you rise up. Large Dogs Depending on the size of your dog, you may be able to follow the same instructions as a medium-size dog. However, if you have an extremely large dog, you may need to enlist some help from a family member or friend when lifting up your colossal canine! However, this is extremely uncomfortable and may even be painful for your pooch. A puppy is only picked up by their scruff when they are very, very young. Twitter Please don't ever lift dogs or puppies by the armpits like this! It's uncomfortable for must - and painful for many dogs, especially those with neck or back pain. It's also a great way to get bitten in the face. Now imagine that from time to time, without warning, one of those creatures suddenly reaches down, snatches you off your feet and lifts you up into the air. Now you know how many of our dogs feel — especially our smaller dogs — and why you need to rethink if and how you should pick up your dog. Suffering the indignity of being unceremoniously grabbed off the ground is primarily an affliction of small dogs, but there are a surprising number of medium-to-large dogs whose humans also feel compelled to lift and carry them. Does she truly enjoy it, or is she just tolerating the snatch and lift? Those occasions will go a lot smoother if you have invested the time in helping your dog be comfortable about being picked up. This is the best way to give your dog a negative association with being picked up — it hurts! If your dog growls or tries to avoid being picked up, she may very well be experiencing pain during the lift. At her next check-up, ask your veterinarian to do a thorough physical examination to determination if a physical problem could be causing her reluctance to be picked up. While arthritis or a misalignment in the spine are probably the most common causes of pain in dogs who are picked up, even something like an ear infection or imbedded foxtail can cause her to be wary of the close contact required when being lifted. Treat or manage any pain-causing conditions before starting new lifting procedures. And be aware that even a painful event that happened in the past can sour your dog on the idea of being lifted; she may anticipate that the action might hurt her badly again. While the dog appears to be enduring this treatment, his weight is not well supported and he cannot be comfortable. To lift a medium or large dog comfortably, you want to cradle her in your arms — with one arm around the front of the chest and the other around her hind legs, below her tail and above her hocks, mid-thigh. Be sure to bend your knees and rise straight up as much as possible ; the more you bend at the waist the less secure your dog will feel. You can use the above-described Chest Cradle to pick up your small dog, too. The Ribcage lift is another acceptable alternative. As you lift, hold her close and press your elbow against her hip to support her body securely against yours. If your dog is athletic enough to do this, it can be a crowd-pleasing and useful behavior. There are alternatives to lifting your dog. I encourage you to use these as much as possible. Ask your vet if she can lower the table and invite your dog to hop up on her own, rather than lifting her up. You can help your dog be happy about being lifted by giving her a new, positive association with the procedure and allowing her to have a choice in the process. Technically, if your dog has no prior association with being picked up, you are conditioning — that is, creating an association — rather than counter-conditioning, which is changing an already existing association, usually from negative to positive. Break the picking-up process into small increments and get your dog happy at each step by pairing it with high-value treats chicken is my favorite — low fat, low calorie, and high value for most dogs. Start by reaching toward your dog, then feed a treat while your reaching hand is still offered. Repeat this step until she eagerly looks for chicken each time you reach. The next step will be to touch her and feed her a bit of chicken. Gradually add steps that move you toward picking her up, making sure she is happy not just tolerant at each step before proceeding to the next. When you are ready to actually begin lifting, add a cue. Then feed a chicken treat you are still doing counter-conditioning. When she regularly offers those moves, you have established a cooperative care procedure; she is a willing partner in the lift. This is our goal with all the things we do with our dogs; we are always looking for signs that they are happy participants in the activities we ask them to do with us. Of course, now you have an obligation to her. When she signals, proceed with the lift. Reposition and try again. If she repeatedly declines to be lifted, look for an alternative option — one of the several described above. In that case, by all means pick her up — gently and carefully — and make a mental note to go back to refresh her pick-up training when there are no pressing emergencies. Note: If your dog is seriously injured, I recommend muzzling her before picking her up. Pain can cause even the gentlest dog in the word to bite if the injury is jostled. Teach her the fun game of jumping into a laundry basket and play the game with her regularly, so the fun far outweighs any stress that might be caused by carrying her in it. If you plan to use a ramp or a lift board, introduce her to it and take the time with treats, of course to show her how to use it. We recommend happy vet visits anyway, so this is just one more thing to include in your vet-visit repertoire.

Our Bernedoodles are from excellent bloodlines and all Pedigree information traces back to their AKC lineage. Our Dams and Sires have obtained extensive health clearances prior to being bred. These dogs will have a higher success rate for non-shedding, and are recommended for families with allergies. F1 Bernedoodles all have loose wavy coats that are typically minimal to light shedding, while F1B Bernedoodles coats can be loose wavy just like the F1 or curly and there are both coat types within the F1B litter. The F1B Bernedoodle is typically minimal to non-shedding. The coat of a Bernedoodle can vary from straight, loose wavy or curly. An F1 Bernedoodle will have a loose wavy coat, while an F1B Bernedoodle litter has both curly and loose wavy coats within the litter. The coat colors of Bernedoodles can vary based on the color genetics of the parents. We will also have Parti Bernedoodles. Daily walks are a must if you don't have a safely enclosed area for them to run freely. The Bernedoodle can be independent and does great being with family engaging in play, then happily laying on their own with a toy. It is still unknown how long Bernedoodles will live as it is a newer cross. The expected lifespan is hoped to be years. As with any dog, socialization and training should start while the dog is still a puppy and continue throughout its life. Look for a puppy kindergarten class locally or join the AKC S. Puppy Program , training based on positive techniques. You do not have to be an AKC purebred puppy to participate in their S. Puppy Program. Find a class here. This is a great place to start socializing and training. A well-socialized, well-trained Bernedoodle makes a wonderful family companion. Early socialization and training establishes those lifetime bonds between the family and puppy as these programs teach you how to communicate with your new puppy and get started on the right foot. You've come to the right place. Here, at Premier Pups, our Mini Bernedoodles are happy, healthy, and ready to embark on a life-long journey with their new families. These puppies are raised with love and cared for by the best in the business. We align ourselves only with the best breeders that meet our high standards. All our Mini Bernedoodles come with a year health guarantee that backs up our Premier Promise. Nationwide delivery is available for all out-of-state customers looking to adopt a Mini Bernedoodle. The beautiful Mini Bernedoodles are a blend of fluffy looks and darling personalities. They can be small or medium depending on their generation, but regardless of their size, they are simply adorable. Mini Bernedoodles are designed to be loyal and loving companions for equally loving owners. They thrive in a setting where attention and fun are plentiful. We partner with the best dog breeders in the nation to offer you healthy, happy Mini Bernedoodle puppies. Find your dream Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle mix puppy today! A few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups. View Our Available Bernedoodle Puppies! Standard Bernedoodles are bigger than Mini Bernedoodles reaching weights of pounds. They average inches in height at the shoulders when fully grown. Our Standard Bernedoodle puppies are all 1st generation-F1 variety puppies. They have purebred Bernese Mountain dogs for moms and the dads are Standard poodles. Their Standard Bernedoodles life expectancy is years old. Blue Diamond Bernedoodles have a loving, easy-going, and calm temperament. Bernedoodles are very loyal and social and love to spend time with their parents. Standard Bernedoodles need regular grooming because of their curly and thick coats. Shedding is very minimal after their first haircut and grooming. This breed is known to be a hypoallergenic choice. Here at Blue Diamond Family Kennels, we specialize in breeding Standard Bernedoodles along with a few other great breeds. We have teamed up with a few other reputable Bernedoodle breeders that breed and raise Bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. On our Standard Bernedoodle puppies page you will see all of our available puppies for sale. View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near North Charlotte North Carolina and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups! Questions about Bernedoodle puppies for sale in Charlotte NC? We have answers. Give me a an overview of Bernedoodle puppies for sale in Charlotte NC. Bernedoodles for sale in Charlotte have it all: a wide range of colors, hypoallergenic coats, fun personalities, and loyal dispositions. This process gives the Bernedoodle the best traits of each breed, making it one of the most desired dogs in the world! What should I expect from Bernedoodles in general? The Bernedoodle puppies for sale in Charlotte are designer dogs that were created by crossing a Poodle with a Bernese Mountain Dog. As a result, Bernedoodles inherit the best traits of each — making them hypoallergnic goofballs that love to be active. They might be shy at first, but these sweethearts quickly turn into social butterflies. How does Uptown work? Finding the perfect Charlotte Bernedoodle for sale can be a challenging task. With Uptown Puppies, your Bernedoodle puppies for sale Charlotte will be home in no time! How does Uptown Puppies view transparency when it comes to breeding puppies? Am I able to pick up my puppy in person? Our network of breeders will collaborate with you to schedule a pickup time for Bernedoodles for sale in Charlotte — either in person or at a local airport if your pup is an out-of-towner. Do you sell the cheapest puppies? We combat this tragedy by offering a boutique experience with a network of dog-loving breeders and businesses that maintain maximum transparency throughout the buying process. With us, your Bernedoodle for sale in Charlotte is healthy, happy, and itching to find a forever-home! Their purebred ancestry means that Bernedoodle breeders Charlotte can provide detailed medical and familial records, allowing you to take home healthy Charlotte Bernedoodles for sale without worrying about unethical treatment or hidden health concerns. How do I know that my puppy will be healthy? Our report provides key details like health status updates, medical histories, and more — allowing you to confidently bring a new, happy and healthy Bernedoodle for sale Charlotte into your life. Are Bernedoodles a type of designer dog? Do Bernedoodles take a lot of grooming? Bernedoodle puppies Charlotte have hair, rather than fur. That does mean that they require regular brushing to avoid their hair getting matted. Many owners enjoy this, since it helps them to develop a strong bond with their dog. Bernedoodles hardly shed at all, and their coats are hypoallergenic - perfect if you or a family member are prone to allergies.

Showing 1 - 40 of resultsPage 1 - results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. English will follow Disponible!! Pups have been vet checked at 2 and 4 weeks, and.Please Contact Pure pugs! Edmonton These beautiful pure pugs are all sired by Mr Buster! He is a white pug with beautiful colouring and snuggly and super relaxed. He is also a very lean and fit build not pudgy. Albert I have to move unexpectedly and can not bring my puppy with me…. .She is spade, loves kids, listens very well! Genders are listed in the pictures, fawns and very hard to find brindles available. Puppies will.Let me introduce you to: Heidi - Pic 1, 2 - I am the smallest in the litter and everyone always wants to.They love people and kids. May consider.Ready for rehoming Toronto 3 Charming and playful pug puppies ready to find a new home! All males. Photos and videos available upon request. Raised with love, these adorable pugs have a playful personality, are very friendly.Glamorous frenchies currently have.Raised in our home. Born July 19th - All black. Dewormed and first shots. All ready paper.Winnipeg Chug puppies born July 4th. Pug and chihuahua mix. They are 10 weeks ans ready to go to their furever home! They are cheaper as they haven't had their first shot yet. One has been soldd the other .We had an accidental litter lf Frugs Pug x French Bulldog , they are incredibly adorable and will be vet checked and receive 1st vaccines and dewormer before leaving our care. Dad is Frenchie and Boston and mom is Shitzu mix. Healthy pups. Pick up Cedarbrae SW Calgary. Both boys. Very gentle and friendly. Training on a pee pad as well as using the doggie door. We will be in Calgary on the 22 of September to deliver a baby to his new.Pups are from pug parents. All are well socialized and handled from day one to ensure they make the best companions to their future family. Please Contact Pug Puppies Ready Now Belleville Beautiful pug puppies ready for their new homes Parents are health tested and clear on site Puppies have been fully vet checked vaccinated and dewormed Well socialized with other animals and children.Thee most adorable sweet babies. We have been working on outdoor potty.Mom is a fawn Pug, dad is a black Pug. Both parents have excellent health and temperament. They will receive their first shots and vet health check. You will receive.John's pug puppies. Raised around other dogs, cats and children. They have been raised in a family environment with kids as well as cats. They have started.Mom is a 2nd generation bugg, and dad is a purebred blue Boston terrier. Both on site to see I also have moms parents. The puppies are raised around kids and.Ready to go. Almost 8 weeks. Born July 19th. We'll have another litter ready in a few weeks. Pictures of the mom And dad at the end! They will be ready to go in 2 weeks.We bought the puppy from one of our neighbour thought it would help our autistic son. Unfortunately he doesn't like the puppy, so we are looking to find a home. Dewormed, two set of.Puppies come with first shots, dewormed and health check. While it is our goal on this website to only include listings of responsible and ethical breeders of purebred dogs, and there is certain criteria that must be met in order to be listed, we can only rely on the honesty of those submitting the request. Therefore, we cannot recommend, nor do we endorse or support any one of these listings. If you are looking to purchase a puppy, it is your responsibility to do your research in learning what to look for in a breeder. In addition to the Breeders listed here, the Breed Clubs generally include listings of member Breeders on their web sites and, if not, then a listing can usually be obtained either by e-mail or telephone. We do not randomly add Breeders to any listing. All Breeders listed have requested to be included either via a general link or paid advertising. If a young pup is not an absolute requirement for you, then considering the adoption of a dog from a rescue organization or shelter is strongly recommended. In addition, Breeders occasionally have young adults available and many also take in rescued dogs. This section includes several articles and general information along with listings of shelters and rescue organizations that are not breed specific from across Canada. The purchase or sale of any dog is strictly between the buyer and seller. Accuracy of information for all advertisements is the sole responsibility of the advertiser and we cannot be held responsible for any misrepresentation. Quick Links.

Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.Top 30 Smartest Dog Breeds In The World If you're a dog lover, you've probably heard the age-old debate: which dog breeds are the smartest? While all dogs have their own unique intelligence and personality, some breeds have proven to be consistently brilliant over time. In this guide, we'll explore the top 30 smartest dog breeds ranked, from problem-solving whizzes to trainable and intuitive pups. We've done our research to provide you with an updated and informative.These pooches are joyful, lively, eager to please dogs. They are adventurous, kind, family-oriented pups who love hiking, swimming, canine games, sports and any, and all, family activities. These puppies are merry and bouncy little marshmallows. They are cuddly and sweet pups who love running around, playing, making friends and are very enthusiastic learners. The breed is divided into 3 recognized categories: Toy Poodle; Mini; Standard. Although they differ in size, one thing is for sure: they are glamorous companion pets. Questions about Poodle puppies for sale in Dallas TX? We have answers. Give me an overview of Poodle puppies for sale in Dallas TX. You will notice when looking for a Poodle that there are many prices available. This is due to the fact that Poodles come in so many varieties, big and small, as well as many different colors. Price also depends on pedigree and breeder experience. Do your breeders arrange travel for Dallas Poodles out of state? Uptown only works with professionals and due to this, they have a lot of experience with organized travel and transport of their puppies. They even make sure their pups are sent by plane in certain instances. But, as Uptown grows and grows by the day, there may even be a Poodle pup around the corner for you to pick up! How do you screen miniature Poodle breeders in Dallas? Breeders, businesses and companies that desire to be part of the Uptown network constantly contact us with calls and messages. Very few of them will actually make it through our vetting process and eventually take the Breeder Pledge. We only have the strictest of standards when it comes to the wellbeing of your pup. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other miniature Poodle breeders Dallas? Uptown exists because of care, rather than profit. We truly care about connecting honest breeders, companies and businesses with lovely families, such as yours, looking to bring home a new best friend, to take care of and love for life. What is a puppy mill like for miniature Poodle Dallas? To say it simply, puppy mills are actual prisons for dogs. A whole lot of dogs are grouped together in small cages. The only reason for their sad existence is to give birth to multiple litters until the mother dogs pass away from infections and other health reasons. Puppies that come out of here will cost you thousands in vet bills and often die young. Are there any miniature Poodle puppies Dallas for sale now? Because Poodles are so popular, you will always be able to find a puppy through Uptown. Just begin your search underneath and fill in a few details about yourself and what exactly you are looking for in your perfect pooch. Soon enough, you will have your new best friend by your side. What kind of dogs are mini Poodle puppies Dallas? They originate from both Germany and France and were originally bred to hunt ducks in the water. They are easily trainable as they are so intelligent and have many skills - including herding. How do I know I can trust you with miniature Poodle puppies in Dallas? Uptown is fully aware of all the scams that occur regarding the selling of puppies. We are currently raising gorgeous multi colored Parti Poodles and solid colored in miniature and soon, toy sizes. We started in standards but have made the move to smaller sizes. We feel very passionate about health testing, showing, and titling our poodles for our Poodle breeder program though we do give preference to pet puppy homes. More Than Amazing Color While we understand color is part of what makes Parti Poodles so popular, we want you to know that we place high emphasis on temperament and type or build, in our partis and well as solids, so your puppy will grow into a eye catching and distinguished adult that is as sweet and intelligent as any poodle should be. Conformation Show Titles We are proud of our show titles! We understand families searching for a pet do not need a show dog, we do this so families know that what they have purchased from us represents a great amount of knowledge and hard work. We test our Poodles against other great dogs so that we can know our breeding dogs are worthy of your family both in soundness of temperament and that they truly are representations of their breed. We do give preference to pet homes for our puppies. Testament to Temperament We have donated to date five puppies for service dog training and so far, all of our candidates have graduated and gone on to service work! We feel this is a real testament to what we strive to produce for families that want to purchase a puppy from MnJ- a great, stable, sweet and social family member. We are currently raising gorgeous multi colored Parti Poodles and solid colored in small standard and miniature sizes. While many will think we have Moyen Poodles, in truth the FCI breed standard for this size is very misunderstood so we avoid using a marketing term. Past Puppies Just a few of our past puppies so you can get an idea of what we offer!

what to know about labradoodle puppies - An 8 week old German Shepherd puppy is a bundle of antics and endless energy! Your 8 Week Old German Shepherd Puppy An 8 week old your puppy requires a daily routine and training to help them become the dog of your dreams. This article will not only help you understand your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy but will also explain to you why your little puppy has certain behaviors. Raising a German Shepherd puppy can feel like an overwhelming task at first! Just remember, your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy is also adjusting to its new life with you. You should expect your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy to feel stressed and uncertain. They may seem timid and unsure of their surroundings. They might cry, whine, and not want your attention. Having structure and consistency will help create a bond and help you both in getting along more peacefully and calmly. Introducing A Puppy Crate Many dog owners choose to use a crate when it comes to caring for their 8-week-old puppy. While some people consider crates unnecessary, or even cruel, crate training is a useful skill to offer your dog. With the right training your pup will see its crate as their private safe space and will even go there to relax. Leaving your puppy at home unsupervised can get them and you into a heap of trouble. Crate training helps prevent your home from being a destruction zone. This useful guide to crate training a German Shepherd puppy gets you on the right track to success! Crate training your puppy can: help speed up housetraining teach your dog to settle calm down offer your dog privacy But you must introduce the crate slowly and positively so your puppy builds a strong connection to the benefits of the crate. Never just shove or push your young German Shepherd into the crate without using positive training. Your new dog also needs a routine and schedule to help them through the early days with you and set the expectations you have for them. Having a schedule helps your puppy to know what to expect in their daily routines. It keeps you from losing your mind and helps ease a worried puppy. While you might work from home or have other obligations, try to follow a schedule that looks similar to this: Early morning: Take your puppy out for the first potty break of the day! So, they may need to go outside even before the sun rises. Breakfast time: Your puppy may want to go back to sleep after going outside and this is perfectly normal. On the other hand, some puppies are wide awake and ready for their breakfast. Either way, always take your puppy back outside shortly after their breakfast so they can sniff and have another potty break. Mid-morning: Puppies should eat 3 — 4 small meals a day. Mid-morning is a good time for another small meal. Afternoon: This is a good time for their lunch followed by a potty break and plenty of sniffing time to work off some of their energy. Late afternoon: Puppies need another potty break in the afternoon, and some puppies need more breaks outside. Evening: Their dinner meal and their evening potty time. Remember to let them explore outdoors in a safe area to help build their confidence. Scheduling exercise, potty breaks, and play at the same times every day helps ensure that your puppy learns their daily routine more quickly and settles in nicely. And, even young puppies can learn basic training in their first weeks with you. Try training your German Shepherd puppy at home to start with. In the beginning, you may find a few accidents in the house. But, stick with your potty training and remember to always watch your puppy to keep them from having messes in the house. When you stick to a regular potty schedule, the likelihood of potty training mishaps decreases, and you and your puppy are less stressed. Always, always, always… Supervise your puppy indoors when you are potty training. Your toughest time together with your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy might be the first few nights. Your puppy has only known the comfort of his mother and siblings before. Having your puppy sleep away from you will only scare them more. And, although they are little, their cry is loud! Having a place for them near your bed is the best way to avoid a night full of tearful cries and howling. Can I let my German Shepherd puppy sleep in bed with me? Plus, when your puppy is an adult and tries to sleep in bed with you there will be no room for you! A full-grown German Shepherd can weigh up to pounds and will push you right out of your own sheets. Your puppy sleeps most of the day. A new puppy sleeps more often than they are awake. An 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy may sleep as many as 18 hours a day! Sleeping this much allows your puppy to have the energy they need to grow and keeps them ready to explore their new world. Feeding An 8 Week Old German Shepherd Your puppy should stay on the same food they were eating before you brought them home to keep them less stressed. This helps keeps your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy from having an upset stomach and becoming ill. Sometimes, you might want to switch them over to a different food. If you choose this route, do it slowly and in stages over a few weeks. At 8 weeks old, German Shepherd puppies should eat 3 to 4 small meals per day. Although their stomachs are small if you overfeed them they could get sick and have stomach problems. Spreading their meals out throughout the day in regular intervals is best to avoid any upsets. Look for a balanced, complete puppy food for large breed dogs. As a large breed dog, your German Shepherd you should only feed your puppy food that is specially formulated for large breed puppies. Large breed puppies have different nutritional needs that are not found in ordinary puppy food. Feeding a commercially available food that is formulated for large breed puppies helps them to grow at a sustained rate. Steady growth in a large breed puppy helps to avoid stress on their bones and gives them a strong skeletal foundation for their athletic muscles. Limiting food intake in growing German Shepherd puppies has also been associated with fewer signs of hip dysplasia. This is of extreme importance in this breed due to the high incidence of hip problems and the pain associated with this joint disorder. A growing puppy is best fed a proprietary pet food that has been specifically formulated to meet its nutritional needs. Foods that are available as dry kibble are especially suitable to rear even the youngest of puppies. Opt for this specially formulated food for large breed puppies to keep your dog growing at a healthy rate that helps them stay strong. It is a complete balanced diet so nothing is missing. Within the first few days of arriving to their new home with you is a stressful time. Your puppy has just made a drastic life change and left everything they knew to be with you. Diarrhea and other stomach issues are sometimes stress induced. You can help your puppy by keeping to a regular feeding schedule and feeding them the same food they were on before coming to you. Sometimes diarrhea is also a sign of an underlying health issue and, if left untreated, can become life-threatening. If your puppy vomits blood, has bloody stools and diarrhea, becomes lethargic, or refuses to drink, call your vet immediately! To an 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy biting and nipping are all part of playing with their siblings. And, your puppy will most likely bite and nip you at some point too. They may even growl at you and tug at your hands or nip your ankles. This is all part of puppy play. But… It can really hurt you or make you bleed! Understanding bite inhibition means they know how to control the power of their play bites and how hard or soft they nip you. Preventing Nips and Bites If you know the right way to prevent and stop German Shepherd puppy biting, you can train your puppy to understand how to keep their razor-sharp tiny teeth from sinking into you. Instead… Offer them plenty of puppy-safe chew toys appropriate for their size. When they bite or nip you, calmly show them the toy to chew instead. Get their attention by moving the toy in a playful way around them so they begin to chase and bite the toy, instead of you or your furniture. Use these links to help you stay on the right track throughout their life. A 6-week-old German Shepherd needs to eat frequently for optimal growth. Aim for four small meals per day to provide a steady supply of nutrients and energy. Meal Schedule: Establish a routine with four meals a day. Pups love consistency! You want to feel their ribs without them being visible. Of course, always have clean, fresh water available. Pups get thirsty too! You can also add some canned, wet food mixed in to encourage them to finish their meals and add a bit more enticing flavor. German Shepherds tend to be prone to sensitive stomachs , so stay alert to any symptoms of digestive upset. As your pup grows, read more about what to feed your German Shepherd puppy. Potty Training: No More Oopsies! Take them outside every minutes, especially after meals, naps, and playtimes. Watch for signs like sniffing the floor or wandering behind furniture. Reward them with praise and treats when they go outside to reinforce the behavior. After Activities: Take them out after eating, playing, or waking up from a nap. These are prime potty times. Puppy Signals: Watch for signs like sniffing, circling, or restlessness. Praise and Treats: When they do their business outside, celebrate with praise and treats. Positive reinforcement works wonders! Choose an appropriately-sized crate, making it cozy with bedding and toys. Gradually introduce them to it with short, positive experiences. Over time, the crate becomes a safe haven, aiding in housebreaking and providing a sense of security for your pup. Crate training can be a game-changer for potty training! Crate as Safe Haven: Make the crate comfy with a blanket and some toys. Pups love their cozy den. It prevents accidents and helps them learn bladder control. One of the keys to raising a happy and healthy pup is understanding their sleep needs and providing the right exercises. On average, they sleep for about 18 to 20 hours a day. Puppies need these long beauty rests to grow and develop properly. Puppy Lullaby: Soft, soothing music or white noise can help them drift off into puppy dreamland. Keep their crates or beds in the same room you sleep in for the first few months. You can slowly transition them to sleeping in their own room without you. Short, frequent bursts of playtime are the way to go. Enjoy these exercises for a German Shepherd puppy: Short Walks: At this age, around 5 minutes of gentle leash walking is plenty. Think of it as a leisurely stroll and not a full-on workout and stick to just 3 short strolls a day. Avoid High Impact: Never run or jog with your dog at this young age. Let them set the pace. Tug of War: A good old game of tug can be a blast for your pup. Fetch: Start with short throws and a soft toy. Hide and Seek: Hide treats around the house in puppy-safe spots, of course and let them use their nose to find them. Sniffaris: Sniffing is great for their brain development at this age. Avoid Steps: Never let your 6-week-old puppy climb stairs because they could seriously injure themself. Remember, their little bodies are still developing, so keep it light and fun. And always keep an eye on their energy levels. If they seem tired, let them rest. Begin with gentle brushing sessions to familiarize them with the process. Here are some grooming tips to get you started: Gentle Introduction: Begin by introducing your puppy to the grooming process gradually. Let them sniff and explore the grooming tools before you start. Brushing: Use a soft brush suitable for their delicate puppy fur. Brush in the direction of hair growth to prevent discomfort. A pair of grooming gloves works wonders for keeping things gentle for your pup. Frequency: Start with short, gentle brushing sessions a few times a week. As they grow, increase the frequency to daily brushing to remove the most shedding. Bathing: Sometimes your little pup might get into a mess and need a bath. Always use a gentle puppy shampoo that helps ensure a comfortable and itch-free coat. Eye and Ear Check: While grooming, inspect their eyes and ears for any signs of irritation or discharge. Wipe their floppy ears if you find any dirt or wax on the outside of the ear canal. Remember to reward your pup with treats and praise during and after each grooming session to make it a positive experience. As they get older, follow a brushing routine to keep their coats in top shape. Enjoy this special time bonding together! The first vaccinations, called the primary vaccinations, are given when a dog is eight weeks old, but you need to prepare for their appointment and make scheduling arrangements. Make an appointment now for these vaccines and a health check. Until your pup has had the first full set of vaccinations, they should stay in your home and yard only. Eight weeks old is considered the safe age to bring a new puppy home. Your main priority is to keep your baby safe and healthy. You have a long life ahead with your Shepherd baby. One in three dogs needs vet treatment every year source. Insurance protects you from large, unexpected bills incurred when your pup is unwell, injured, or in an accident, and helps offset routine medical treatments. Your 6-week-old German Shepherd pup is like a blank canvas waiting to be painted with tons of unforgettable moments with you. Enjoy the tail-wagging ride ahead with your six week old German Shepherd! Before you go, why not grab this helpful freebie? Download it now and take the first step toward ensuring your furry friend reaches their full potential. Your baby German Shepherd deserves the best — grab your tracker and start tracking today! A 6-week-old German Shepherd typically weighs between 7 to 15 pounds. Males tend to be on the higher end of the scale and females on the lower end. In terms of height, they are generally around 8 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder. Individual puppies may vary, but this provides a general guideline for their size and weight at this age. You can also add a few spoonfuls of wet dog food mixed in to encourage them to finish their meals and increase their hydration. Can I give my 6 week old German Shepherd puppy a bath? Always use a gentle, puppy-specific shampoo when you do give them a bath, and be sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid skin irritation. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts.


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what to know about labradoodle puppies - Only interact with dogs that are safe and you know for sure will have positive reactions to your new German Shepherd. Forcing them will only make them develop stress and anxiety in new situations and with animals. Think quality, not quantity, when socializing your German Shepherd. There are tons of new things your dog needs to get comfortable with. Use treats and positive encouragement when they investigate a new situation with confidence. Train daily. Make it fun. Punishment will only cause your dog to fear you and increase anxiety. Crouch down to offer them a gentle scratch and pet. This connects their name to paying attention to you and marks you as a positive leader, which is important for obedience training and living with their new family. Always work on rewarding good behavior instead of punishing bad behavior. The goal is to build trust in the first few weeks and months that you have your new dog to create a bond. And dogs are actually happier when they are trained rspca. Keep the sessions short, but have multiple training sessions throughout the day. Never end training on a bad note. For example, give them a command they know for sure so they finish with success. Read this guide to learn all about the basics of proper German Shepherd obedience training , including a helpful training schedule and the foundation commands. Be prepared for chewing by offering the right options. Biting and chewing are natural instincts for dogs and puppies. These actions provide them with opportunities to investigate the different amounts of pressure to use in relation to the purpose of their biting. Your job as their new owner is to help your pup understand and educate them on what is appropriate to bite, nip, and chew. This teaches them your signal and cue. They should let go or look a bit startled. Follow their release with praise or a tasty treat when your dog stops the unwanted behavior. Do NOT physically punish your dog! Instead, redirect them to a proper chew toy. Sometimes puppies teethe and their gums are sore and need something to chew. Other times adult German Shepherds have a desire and natural urge to bite for relaxation and to reduce anxiety. Only use safe, non-toxic chew toys, which are found listed here, in the best strong chew toys for German Shepherds to avoid boredom. Avoid accidents by managing the home environment. Create a set routine and schedule and stick to it to avoid accidents and train your puppy faster. Say hello to your new sloppy family member… They not only shed everywhere but also dump water out when drinking, spill their food, and… Have total disrespect for your carpets! You must have them in a secure area or watch them all the time to avoid any accidents. No matter what you will clean up some kind of bodily function when owning a German Shepherd. So, do yourself a favor and stock up on pet stain and odor remover! Use food-dispensing toys and slow feeders to keep them at a healthy weight. This is a food toy called a Kong Wobbler. Keep to a schedule so that you can control their food intake and watch their weight. Instead, use rubber toys in which you place part of their food to help control their voracious eating. I like to use a Kong Wobbler for both puppies and adults. Even better? Puppies are more responsive to the Ignore method of training. As a new German Shepherd owner, you might think you need to appease your dog all the time or give in to their excessive attention-seeking. In my experience, this is one of the most effective training methods that you can use when owning a German Shepherd. Put simply, here are the basics to use the Ignore method of training: You ignore the behavior that you want to stop or reduce. On the flip side, you give attention to the behavior you want to encourage. The hard bit is ignoring a very intelligent German Shepherd who is persistent! Give your German Shepherd a job at home so they stay entertained. This represents big challenges as a German Shepherd owner. You must be smarter than your dog! But the jobs can be as easy or difficult as you have the time and energy to train. This is not a mentally lazy dog, but a breed with extremely high intelligence and a huge breadth of application for that intelligence. Tips for First Time German Shepherd Owners Mar 06, We are obviously huge fans of the breed and even more fanatical about sharing experiences and advice from German Shepherd owners. These amazing dogs are fiercely loyal, make fantastic family pets, are wonderful protectors, and their intelligence cannot be underestimated. Their zeal for life, athletic, and mental capabilities are what endear us to the breed and those same traits, with lack of training and understanding, are also the reason so many German Shepherds, tragically, find themselves in shelters all across the United States. Three to four million of these animals are euthanized because there are not enough homes for them. Twenty-five percent of all the animals entering shelters are purebreds. In , 43, or 4. Many of the , dogs in our US shelters every year are German Shepherds. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and need firm, consistent leadership, and training or they will try to get the upper hand. On the other side of the coin, they learn quickly and are easily trained when they respect their owners. If you are not experienced with dogs, it would be wise to read up on training a working dog, such as a German Shepherd, or hire a professional trainer. They are very smart and need plenty of mental stimulation. Plan to spend considerable time on training to create a well-balanced dog. German Shepherds can be suspicious and protective. They need plenty of socialization from the time they are small puppies to develop into well-balanced dogs that you can take anywhere. They are very active and require about two hours of exercise a day. When you purchase your dog, find a dog that matches your lifestyle. Prey Drive. German Shepherds are herding dogs with a naturally high prey drive and some more than others. Choose your dog wisely, whether it is going to be a family pet, do protection work, or other dog sports, etc. Plan to invest in plenty of non-destructible toys that are appropriate for the dog through all phases of life, such as Kongs, Jolly Balls, Planet Dog toys, West Paw, etc. Family Interaction. German Shepherds bond very strongly with their families and need lots of quality family time and social interaction. They do not do well when spending lots of isolated time alone. German Shepherds are prone to some health problems so avoid backyard breeders and do your research before purchasing. If you are on a budget, consider purchasing health insurance for your dog. When looking for a German Shepherd, be sure to look for a confident dog that is not aggressive, fearful, or the offspring of very aggressive parents. German Shepherds are naturally protective and should be balanced. If you are looking for a dog for protection training, the same rule applies-you are looking for a sound balanced dog that can be trained as opposed to a time bomb waiting to go off. Puppies require considerable time and training. They begin teething around 5 months old and can be a handful during their adolescent years and they require lots of consistent training. If you have the time and energy to invest, this can be an amazing yet frustrating time. In a nutshell, German Shepherds make wonderful pets for people who are willing to invest the time, training, and energy they require. Those that do, will receive a lifetime of unmatched loyalty, love, and devotion from their dog. These dogs make wonderful companions but also require a lot of work. We recently asked experienced German shepherd owners for their best tips and this is what they said: Puppy train early. Puppy training should start when you bring them home. Teaching your puppy will also help them grow up to be a confident, well behaved dog and prevent many problems down the road. Expect puppy biting and nipping. A big surprise for many new German shepherd owners is how much their new puppy enjoys puppy biting. As herding dogs, German shepherd puppies are naturally prone to nip. All German shepherd puppies should be taught not to play bite and redirected to what is appropriate to sink their teeth into. All new owners should learn how to train this skill before bringing their land shark home. Dog Proof your home. German shepherds are naturally curious and as puppies, tend to get into anything they can. Puppy and dog proofing your home is important and will help you avoid lots of pain down the road. Protect your puppy from accidents, potential vet bills, injuries, and worse. Check out how to prepare for a German shepherd puppy here. Buy a good vacuum. These double coated dogs shed year-round and blow their coat twice a year. However, the shedding is manageable with continued brushing, vacuuming, and sweeping-just know it will be a constant thing but the work is worth all the love they return. Plan to brush often. As mentioned above, German shepherds shed — a lot. Give lots of attention. German shepherds are not ornamental dogs content to hang out in the background. They strongly desire to be part of the family and will develop behavior problems when not given the time and attention they need. They are happiest by the side of those they love and as participating family members. Provide lots of exercise. Along with needing lots of attention, they are also athletic and need lots of exercise. Fortunately, you can combine these two activities into play and training time. They love to run, fetch balls, and learn new things. Teach them house manners. When teaching your German shepherd how you expect them to behave indoors you must be consistent. Boundaries and expectations are important for these dogs to learn but also provide stability, which builds confidence. Work their brains as well as their body. German shepherds are very smart. They are capable of learning many things and get bored easily. A bored German shepherd can get destructive and develop anxious behaviors. With training, attention, interactive games, and tough chew toys, you can meet their need for mental stimulation in a fun, healthy way. As herding dogs, German shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers. They need to be socialized from a young age and exposed to many different situations and people. Doing this will help build their confidence and give you a trustworthy dog that can go anywhere. Teach them to be calm. By now, you should have the idea that German shepherds are very busy, active dogs. This could be a dog bed, a crate, or something like a cot. Whatever it is, it should be a place in your home that you can easily send them to go lay down when you need them safe and out from being underfoot, temporarily. Feed them healthy food. German shepherds are notorious for having sensitive skin and stomachs. A good quality, easily digestible diet full of nutrients for healthy skin is very important. They can also benefit from joint and skin supporting supplements such as chondroitin, glucosamine, and omega 3 oils. Set them up for success. Sadly, many German shepherds develop behavior problems or find themselves dumped at a shelter because no one took the time to train them. Their need for socialization, attention, and physical and mental exercise cannot be overstated. There is nothing more heartbreaking than a German shepherd being failed by their owner. One of the reasons why so many people love these dogs is because they are so active and smart. They are a joy to train and love learning new things. They are extremely loyal and are fast learners. Some of the most important things you can teach them include: Sit. Any dog can be your first dog. There is no such thing as a bad dog as it usually comes down to poor training and socialization by the owner, right from puppyhood. Some breeds are easier for first-time dog owners, while others require a little more time and patience while training. It really does all depend on you and whether the breed is suited to your lifestyle. For example, suppose you are inactive and live in an apartment. In that case, a toy dog such as a chihuahua will be more suitable than if you were looking for a loyal and protective dog that requires a lot of exercise, such as the German Shepherd! You must be able to provide your dog with all his exercise needs, play, and care as this will prevent any future behavior problems, for example, destructive chewing. So, what makes a good first dog, anyway? Well, the best breeds for good first dogs are those considered easy to train, highly intelligent, get along well with other dogs and people, are loyal and protective, and have good general health. All dogs require considerable time and effort to train, but some breeds are much more willing to learn new things than others. The German Shepherd is considered highly intelligent and easy to train. You only need to look at the history of the GSD, intentionally bred for herding sheep and other livestock. This was a skill that required not only intelligence but concentration, stamina, and decision-making. You can train the German Shepherd breed to perform almost any task. Due to their high trainability, obedience, and strength, they are used as police, military, search and rescue, and service dogs. Early socialization is therefore essential. German Shepherds are friendly towards strangers as long as they sense your approval first. German Shepherds are also good with kids — but as long as they have been properly socialized. They are particularly good with children they have grown up with due to their loyal and protective nature. If you have a baby or are planning a family, read my article on the compatibility of German Shepherds and babies here. All breeds have some health issues, but you might want to lean toward a breed with overall good general health, at least until they age. The German Shepherd is generally a fit and healthy breed, although they occasionally suffer from a sensitive stomach. Due to poor breeding practices, German Shepherds are also prone to specific genetic health problems, such as hip dysplasia. Therefore, choosing a reputable breeder is essential and avoiding commercial dog breeding facilities such as puppy farms. Keep in mind that not all of these characteristics will be considered positive. However, they will definitely allow you to understand what you should expect when you buy or adopt a German Shepherd and determine whether or not you think you can handle a German Shepherd for your first dog. You will need to get a good grooming tool. I use the FURminator undercoat de-shedding tool from Amazon. This is particularly suited to German Shepherds as it easily gets through the topcoat and safely removes the loose undercoat hair. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that German Shepherds are good family dogs. If you are wondering why the German Shepherd is so loyal and protective, you only need to remember that he was originally bred for herding sheep and livestock. Training and socializing your German Shepherd puppy is an effective way to make him calm. Puppies should not be removed from their mother until they are at least 8-weeks old as they learn so much during this time, in particular when not to annoy their mother too much! To find out tons more about how to discipline a German Shepherd for biting , check out this helpful post. German Shepherds are known for their strong guarding instincts. This does require a lot of training that you might not be up for as a first-time dog owner so make sure you have enough time to devote to your dog. German Shepherds make good guard dogs and are often used in the security industry and for personal family protection. They are always naturally alert, are extremely brave, and have a strong defense instinct. Training is easy…when there are balls! The German Shepherd just happens to be prone to hip dysplasia. This is a painful hereditary condition of the hip due to the ball and socket joint being too loose or not developing correctly. It can lead to permanent osteoarthritis. You can reduce the risk in the first instance by finding a responsible breeder and choosing a puppy whose parents have been screened for hip dysplasia and therefore have healthy hips. There are various schemes to assess hip traits. When choosing my breeder, one of the first things I checked was the hip scores of the parents and that they were both UK Kennel Club registered. I took these photos during my first meeting with the breeder. These include joint supplements, such as glucosamine and anti-inflammatory medications. As always, make sure to check with your vet first before giving your GSD any supplements. They need an orthopedic bed specifically suited for large breeds that provide extra support for their joints. This is especially important from puppyhood as your dog may not develop arthritis or joint issues until he is much older. You can check out my German Shepherd bed recommendations here. During this study , researchers believe German Shepherds are one of the breeds that have become needier due to breeders attempting to make the dogs more affectionate as pets. The thing is, owners are often also to blame for this clingy behavior, especially if they are constantly petting, cuddling, and praising their German Shepherd! My German Shepherd is never left alone for longer than 4 hours, and she is always well exercised before I leave the house. They need a lot of daily exercise German Shepherds are the perfect fit for anyone with an active lifestyle that wants to take their dog with them on their adventures. Adult German Shepherds require a ton of exercise, a minimum of two hours per day, to eliminate their pent-up energy and prevent behavioral problems. This exercise should include walking but also running off-lead in a safe area. They also need playtime for mental stimulation and ongoing training. Remember, puppies will need to gently build up to this amount of exercise to prevent harm to their fast-growing joints and bones. As a general rule, aim for exercising your puppy for five minutes per month of age, twice a day. Instead, you can consider crossbreeds such as mini German Shepherds or smaller German Shepherd mixes. German Shepherds are good with kids over time. This breed is perfect for experienced owners and adults compared to kids. Training a GSD takes time but is great to help the breed mingle with kids faster and understand the family over time. Oftentimes, your German Shepherd will own you not the other way around! Failure to socialize or train them properly and consistently might lead to inappropriate or even aggressive behaviors. You need lots of time to brush and groom them regularly. Most people have the best intentions when they bring a new puppy into their home. Make sure if you choose a German Shepherd, he will be the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Related Posts You May Like:. Breed Info Each year, the German Shepherd ranks as one of the top 3 most popular dog breeds in the USA and among the top 10 in the world. Not only are they excellent working dogs but also wonderful personal companions. But are German Shepherds good first dogs? Learn the reasons why German Shepherds can be difficult for a first-time dog owner, but also learn some tips to help make owning a GSD easier. Yes, German Shepherds can be a good option for first-time dog owners. However, owning a GSD involves a lot of work. Although individual dogs have their own unique personalities, here are a few general traits that make GSDs a good first dog: Intelligent German Shepherds are remarkably intelligent. Training them is not just enjoyable but also incredibly rewarding. They pick up on lessons right away and can easily build up to more complex commands. This brings many advantages, including the ability to quickly learn your house rules. Obedient GSDs are always eager to please their humans. This is a trait that makes them very obedient dogs. This helps foster peaceful coexistence with you and your family. Energetic Dog ownership in general will help keep you active. But if you already have an active lifestyle, you can count on the German Shepherd breed to keep your pace. They thrive on strenuous exercise and will be happy to join you on your runs or hikes. Tolerant A properly trained and socialized German Shepherd can be a wonderful family dog. They are patient with children and can form strong bonds with them through their sweet and playful nature. They can also get along with other dogs and even cats as long as they are introduced properly and socialized. Protective The presence of German Shepherds is often intimidating enough to deter any ill-intentioned stranger. More than that, they will naturally protective of their home and family without being aggressive. They are alert to the presence of strangers, bark to keep them at bay, and engage if they deem it necessary. That makes them great guard dogs. German Shepherds are actually very affectionate. They are happiest when they spend time with their humans. Their instincts, temperament, and natural abilities need honing, nurturing, and direction. They need a handler that will set the rules and enforce them. A job German Shepherds are working dogs, so they thrive when they have something to do. Otherwise, they will find other ways to use their smarts. Many people give their GSD a job or two that they can complete on a daily basis. Others have their pup participate in a canine sport, like Schutzhund , flyball , or agility , to fulfill their working need. German Shepherds need at least an hour of physical activity per day. Some might be happy enough with long walks while others might need more strenuous exercises. Ample socialization To have a well-mannered German Shepherd, you need to commit yourself to provide plenty of exposure to different environments, people, and animals. This is the only way to help them learn how to behave in different situations, play nicely with others, and avoid developing fear-based aggression. Proper training Training is key for owning any dog but especially strong-willed dogs like German Shepherds. Training will help you GSD know the behavior you expect from them, and also respect your leadership. Lots of attention When you own a German Shepherd, you need to be ready to give it plenty of attention. Not only do you need to spare time for training and exercise, but also for some bonding. Additionally, these dogs are prone to separation anxiety , which will also need to be addressed a certain way. If you are, here are some tips that will help ensure a positive experience with your first dog: Develop a routine Get your GSD used to a regular schedule. They need to expend their energy daily to become well-mannered dogs. Provide ample mental stimulation GSDs need help finding ways to put their intelligence to good use. Socialize them early Exposing your GSD puppy to different situations, people, and animals nurtures their confidence and helps them become well-mattered dogs in any situation. Get help from a professional trainer Working with a reputable professional trainer will help you improve your communication and develop a good relationship with your dog. It will also help you address specific concerns and unwanted behaviors. Be consistent Set the rules and enforce them at all times. Final Thoughts Owning a German Shepherd definitely has its challenges. Because of their size, intelligence, and overall temperament, GSD ownership involves a certain level of commitment that not all pet owners are ready for. German Shepherds are an intelligent, easily trainable dog breed which makes them a great choice for first time dog owners. While they are sensitive dogs, they are eager to please and enjoy interacting with their family. They have been bred to have strong protective instincts which makes them a good choice for families with children, and they also do well in both urban environments and more rural locations. Provided they are introduced properly, German Shepherds also get along well with other dogs, cats, and livestock and they can be great apartment dogs as long as their physical and mental needs are being met. Do you enjoy being around dogs that can think on their feet? German Shepherds are known for their high intelligence levels! A higher level of intelligence means that these dogs also have a lot of common sense and great problem-solving skills. How about having a dog that can show off some cool tricks to your friends? The German Shepherd breed also has a great reputation for their trainability. As a first-time dog owner, training is probably one of the biggest concerns you might have. Thankfully, the German Shepherd is a breed that excels in learning new behaviors and they are easy to train. German Shepherds are also very responsive and willing to please their owners provided they are treated right and understand what is being asked of them which makes them more like to focus on you as you are training them. Want a dog that can not only take on a challenge, but enjoys it as well? As a whole, the German Shepherd is a very adaptable and hearty breed. They do well in apartments, large homes, urban environments, and rural communities. With proper training and socialization, German Shepherds can be a favorite to take along to public parks, breweries, and other busy locations. They excel in a wide variety of dog sports and dog jobs and they enjoy learning new things and tend to be very sociable with their households. When considering a German Shepherd as your first dog, there are a few things to consider to make sure they would make the best fit for you and your household. They want to be where you are! While German Shepherds can do well in daycare settings, they do best when their owners are able to make time to play with them, train them, and interact with them. With their high energy levels and enthusiasm for activities, they excel in dog sports such as obedience trials, rally, agility, nosework, and Schutzhund. German Shepherds also make great companions for those who like outdoor activities such as hiking. They do best with some kind of job, or at least in environments where activity levels are high. They are also highly intelligent dogs and will need their owners to provide them with activities or toys that engage all of their senses in order to truly tire them out. German Shepherds can do well in a crate provided they are trained properly but are not the best dogs to leave in the crates for long periods of time and they can develop some behavioral issues such as separation anxiety if their owners do not spend enough time with them. Despite being so large, they can do well as apartment dogs and be fine in smaller spaces as long as they are getting frequent exercise and have all of their physical and mental needs met. They love to be around their owners and family members at all times and can get stressed when left outside alone for long periods or if they are kept separate from the excitement of a family gathering for too long. If you are considering getting a German Shepherd and you live in an apartment complex, housing development, military base, or other area where there are stricter pet regulations, you should also check to make sure German Shepherds are even allowed where you live. Some areas have weight restrictions that German Shepherds exceed, and other areas have breed restrictions that can sometimes include German Shepherds. As with any dog breed, unexpected medical costs also need to be accounted for and the German Shepherd does have a reputation for being more susceptible to some genetic conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia which may add to potential veterinary costs. Equipment, grooming services, and training costs for your German Shepherd should also be taken into consideration. These dogs can be emotionally sensitive to harsher punishments and tones, and they respond well to reward-based training and patient owners who can work with them on any training issue they may be having. They also tend to be a very vocal breed, so if you live in an apartment or neighborhood you may want to work with a trainer to figure out why your German Shepherd might be barking so much and what you can do to help fix that. German Shepherds also tend to be clingy and can develop separation anxiety, so an owner who does not mind having a dog attached to them at all times is ideal! What To Look For German Shepherds should be between 40 to 90 pounds , with males generally being larger than females. Their ears should stand upright, and their tail should be relatively straight with no curve. Personality-wise they should be curious, alert, and slightly rambunctious if they are a young puppy. German Shepherds are not usually naturally aggressive dogs, but they can be quite vocal and protective of their owners and households which can sometimes be misinterpreted as aggression. You can run into similar issues whether you get your German Shepherd direct from the breeder or adopt one from a rescue group or animal shelter. Deciding on where to get your German Shepherd is a personal decision and there are a lot of external factors that can contribute to that decision. No matter where you decide to get your German Shepherd, always remember to research the breeder or facility heavily and get as much information and history about your potential German Shepherd as possible. Rescue groups and animal shelters frequently have purebred German Shepherds available for adoption , and many groups also get in litters of purebred puppies from an accidental breeding or from breeders who are getting out of the business. If you opt to purchase from a breeder, make sure you conduct thorough research into their breeding practices and if possible, consult with other owners who have also purchased puppies from them. Here are some tips to help you prepare for bringing your new German Shepherd home: Training Depending on the age of your new pup, training should begin soon after your new arrival has gotten acquainted with your home and everyone in it and has had time to decompress after all of the excitement of going to a new home. You can start basic training at home and consider reaching out to a local dog trainer to get your German Shepherd enrolled in some group classes or ask about receiving one-on-one help for specific issues or concerns. For young puppies, you can begin potty training them almost immediately and start working on creating a good potty-training schedule to help speed up the process. Care German Shepherds are a high energy breed no matter what age they are, so make sure to plan accordingly! German Shepherds, while they do not require regular trips to the groomers for a trim, do require frequent brushing and they will shed their undercoat heavily once or twice a year. During those shedding seasons, the amount of hair is enough to make it seem like you have another German Shepherd! This is pretty normal but can be minimized by making any food changes gradually and adding in a probiotic to help the transition go a little more smoothly. Supply List Before getting your new German Shepherd, make sure you have basic supplies on hand. This includes a good quality leash, collar , bowls, and toys. Additional supplies to think about include a crate , training treats, a bed, and anything else that you feel is important to have on-hand before bringing your new family member home. German Shepherds, just like any breed of dog, require a lifelong commitment to making sure they are cared for, and their needs are met. Unexpected veterinary costs and the fluctuating cost of dog food and supplies are also things that need to be taken into consideration before bringing home your new furry friend. Closing Thoughts German Shepherds make a fantastic choice for first-time dog owners and can be a better choice than many other breeds. They are intelligent, athletic, easy to care for, and easy to train. Because they are one of the most popular breeds, there is a plethora of information available for new owners to help them care for their new friend. There are frequently purebred German Shepherds available in shelters and from rescue groups at a much lower cost than if they were purchased from a breeder, which makes them an easily accessible breed for those owners who are financially stable enough to care for a dog but who do not necessarily want to shell out the big bucks for a puppy, or those who would prefer to adopt and rescue an at-risk German Shepherd rather than shop for a young puppy that requires more time and energy. Overall, this breed is a great choice for single owner households, families with children of all ages, and even senior citizens. German Shepherds are versatile, loyal, friendly, and love to socialize with their owners. If that sounds like your ideal dog, then the German Shepherd may be the right fit for you! My 2 German Shepherds and 1 Siberian Husky mix keep my busy, along with my 8 cats I am also a crazy cat lady and my axolotl Fin Diesel he's all about family. We go to great lengths to help users better understand their pets; however, the content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Additionally, NotABully.