16 week old boxer puppy
Life Span Did You Know? The loving and gentle English Bulldog is one of the most well-liked companion dog breeds around the world. A breed of English origins, the Bulldog was first recognized as a non-sporting dog by the American Kennel Club in .The original use of this breed was Bull baiting, which was eventually outlawed with the establishment of the Cruelty to Animals Act of .This legislative act made the act of Bull and Bear baiting both illegal. The current role most suitable for the English Bulldog would be as a companion or family pet, given their sweet demeanor. The English Bulldog is relatively easy to train but definitely takes some work for more complicated commands. If you are looking for a breed to sit, stay, and play dead for treats, this is the breed for you. While they may not be the sharpest tool in the shed compared to some of the other highly intelligent breeds, they are easy going and apt to please their owner. Training this breed will be accomplished with less difficulty if you make the training reward based. Can you say Sweetheart? While this dog breed makes an above average watchdog because of their courage, this breed is a loving companion at heart. The Bulldog is excellent with kids when socialized and should be very agreeable with guests of the house. The English Bulldog breed as a whole is heralded as one of the most well liked companion breeds in the world. The Bulldog should do well with other family pets as long as properly introduced and socialized. They need to be socialized early and often to curb any negative feelings towards strange dogs. This breed is generally agreeable to most environments. Although they easily adapt to a noisy and chaotic household, they are not very tolerant of extreme weather, whether it be hot or cold. Although they are well liked and very popular, one must be aware of the potential health pitfalls with this breed. Some of the potential issues you can see with the English Bulldog is Cherry Eye, Entropion, or dysplasia. This breed also has a high risk for weight gain, so this should be monitored. An average Bulldog life span is between 8 and 12 years. You do not need to be a professional dog trainer to own an English Bulldog. They are good for most novice owners because they are passive by nature. The English Bulldog is an average shedder, so brushing him twice a week with a firm brush will be a good idea. Also, they can have a tendency to drool, so making sure you wipe their face off everyday can help ensure they do not suffer irritation on their faces and between their wrinkles. Because of the amount of wrinkles they have, it is recommended that you clean between the wrinkles fairly often to avoid irritations. The English Bulldog is a generally low energy breed. They do not require a lot of exercise, but when they do play, they play hard! Because they can be intense when they do have an energy burst, an owner must be aware of overexertion. They can be very playful, but do tend to tire out quickly. The English Bulldog is a short, stocky breed that should weigh between pounds. This dog breed generally lives for years. Presidents Calvin Coolidge and Warren G. Harding both owned English Bulldogs. Featured English Bulldog Article. Call Morgan at for specific pup identification if you are leaning towards placing an early deposit. Please check back, we update our website daily! Please see our Deposit Page and our Transportation Page for information on getting your puppy. We love the English bulldog temperament, physique and expression, I just personally like it to be about lbs. We find the smaller sizes are more buoyant and playful and, though still very heat sensitive, are better able to cope with life in general. Downsizing an AKC breed takes time. Our girls all come from long lines of lb. We not trying for 20 pounders…our goal is to have healthy, beautiful babies that consistently mature at lbs. If you see a puppy that tugs on your heartstrings please call, or go to our deposit page for more information. In the last few years it has become clear that most people would prefer their puppy to be transported using our White Glove transport or Nanny Flight transport. Today, we have requests for our Puppies from all over the country. Because of this, the majority those requesting a Sugarplum Bulldog Puppy have also requested transport to their area of the country; those in Florida, for example, cannot easily make the drive to RI. As such, the majority of our Puppies have shifted to a transport model; this gets them closer to their new forever home. Because of this, we have come to the decision, that for the well being of our Puppies and for the benefit of our new Sugarplum Bulldog owners, we have developed a transport model for our pups using our Puppy-Mobile with direct transport to the pups new Forever Home! Our Mid-Western breeding home is co-owned by Sugarplum Bulldogs, and our partner. I realize that not having a chance to play with the Pups is disappointing to some, but please understand that our team are dedicated to the highest level of care for our little Pups. We truly feel that this new model is in the best interested of our Puppies and their new homes. Please feel free to ask me any questions….
Hiding treats for your dog to find. Obedience training Grooming The White German Shepherd is a heavy-shedding dog with a double white coat and requires regular brushing. Ideally, a White Shepherd should be groomed every other day, possibly daily, during the peak shedding season. Male vs. Female While for many animal species, the female is larger, with the German Shepherd, it is the males that are larger. While German Shepherds are all loyal and loving family dogs, it is often noted that females are more docile than males. This makes a female Shepherd a better choice for homes with young children. A female White Shepherd reaches sexual maturity at two years of age and has a litter of between five to ten puppies. They have an intelligent and fearless personality and are eager to learn and please. These traits make them wonderful family pets. A determined personality also makes shepherds adept at being working dogs. The White German Shepherd is a loyal and loving dog that quickly forms an unshakable bond with its family and is fiercely protective of them. It is vital for all dog owners to understand that training is important. Any German Shepherd breed needs to be trained and socialized correctly. Failing to do so leads to problems with jealousy and distrust of strangers. White German Shepherd Health and Care All dogs come with their own potential health problems and care requirements. For the White German Shepherd, there are several critical quality-of-life considerations to make. While both White and regular German Shepherds suffer from a lot of the same health issues, there are some with a higher prevalence in white breeds. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is one of the most common health issues faced by White German Shepherd dogs. Caused by a misformation of the hip joint, dysplasia is a painful condition resulting from bone-on-bone grinding. While it can be seen in White German Shepherd puppies as young as four months, it is more common in older dogs. It can be treated with the help of CBD Oil for hip dysplasia. Sadly, this painful condition is very prominent in German shepherds. This is largely due to their combined size and energy levels. Unfortunately, arthritis is a progressive condition that cannot be cured. In the White GSD, arthritis is more common in their hind legs than in their front. Gastric Bloat Gastric bloat is the common name for a serious medical complaint known as gastric dilatation volvulus GDV. Bloat commonly occurs in larger dogs, particularly German Shepherd breeds. There is no time to waste with this condition. If a dog is showing signs of bloat, they need immediate medical attention, as it could quickly become fatal. Canine Degenerative Myelopathy CDM Canine degenerative myelopathy is a degenerative disease that affects the spinal column. German Shepherds are one of the most commonly affected breeds. The result of CDM is commonly rear-leg paralysis. Middle-aged dogs between 4 and 14 years are more likely to be diagnosed with CDM. Pay attention to any limping or signs of motion impingement. Other Diseases Deafness is another disease that is more common for the White German Shepherd than other breeds. As a general rule, deafness is a common health concern for white-coated dogs and other animals. Some of the core allergies that affect this breed are related to chicken, wheat, and dairy. Dental decay is also a serious problem that is frequently observed in German Shepherds. More so with them than many other breeds. Using dental chews in combination with a healthy diet is a great way to promote healthy teeth and gums. They love to be challenged, while their loyalty sees them eager to please. While Shepherds make great pets, it is important to train them from a young age. Below are five training tips for White German Shepherds. Be consistent: White and other German Shepherds all respond better to training when there is consistency to things. Everything from your manner to the commands you use needs to be consistent from one training session to another. Layer your training in easy-to-iterate steps. Master one of two commands before introducing something else. Be a leader: It is important to remember that dogs are looking for you to be a leader and not a dominator. You must be prepared to take charge rather than use aggression as a training tactic. Communicate properly: Dogs do not communicate the same way humans do. It is important to understand the right way to communicate with your White Shepherd. Short and clear commands yield the best results. Also, avoid using similar-sounding commands, as these are likely to confuse your dog. Practice positive reinforcement: Never punish a dog for not doing well in training or for struggling to recognize a command. Instead, positive reinforcement is the recommended training practice. Reward your furry friend for every good deed. However, the exact costs will vary depending on where you are and the size of the litter. The price also relates to buying White Shepherd puppies from a recognized breeder and not from a puppy farm or through shelter adoption. White German Shepherds are different from other German Shepherd dogs in so far as they have a white coat rather than the traditional tan and brown. However, genetically, there is no difference between White Shepherds and other shepherds. The difference between them is that the White German Shepherd carries a recessive white gene that changes its fur color. This is the same way some humans are born with blond hair. Conclusion The White German Shepherd is the rare form of one of the most easily recognized dogs in the world. Wonderful family dogs. German Shepherds love to be part of the family. They struggle when home alone for long periods. Luckily, this breed is very good with children. The same as any other dog, White Shepherds need to be trained. Exercise is also crucial for this breed, as they can become destructive if they do not get enough physical and mental stimulation. If you work from home or have a family member at home a lot of the day, then a White German Shepherd is an ideal dog. Just make sure ahead of time that you understand the amount of work it takes to train a shepherd puppy from a young age. Whether you are a new or experienced dog owner, the White Shepherd is a great choice for your house. All dogs need love and affection, but the hyper-intelligent German Shepherd needs more than most in order for them to truly feel settled in their home. Luckily, the effort you put in is returned multiple folds in the affection your dog shows. Related Guide:. Our dogs have mellow, affectionate, and playful temperaments, love water, and especially children. They are living as trustworthy family members, as emotional support dogs, service dogs, and medical alert dogs around the world! Content Link Block Polarbear is our Name. Or perhaps just looking for the total package in a dog? Health and longevity remains the foundation of all we do. Take for example, the standard German Shepherd dog as seen in this photo: View fullsize …Dogs bred with these traits often end up with crippling disabilities and premature death. This is so inhumane. The focus of our kennel, on the other hand, is to produce dogs with straight backs, broad heads, and short coats, as in the photo of Polarbear's foundation sire, Shack Von Hammer below. Aside from their magnificent appearance, Polarbear White Shepherds are calm, sociable, and affectionate. They are gifted empaths and comedians at heart. Their goofy personalities and love of children make them perfect nannies for even the youngest child. They love water, retrieving frisbees, and diving into the occasional swimming pool. What kind of dogs do all that? And they are living fulfilled lives, as medical detection dogs, service dogs, and family and companion dogs in nearly every state in the United States! World Map of our Clients Before leaving, you might like to click on some of our pages. Our "Words of Warning" for those purchasing a purebred dog for the first time on the internet is a favorite. Just remember this quote…. No amount of training or special food will fix a problem dog. If you want to view videos of our dogs, check out our Youtube Channel page. If you appreciate our breeding philosophy and love what we do, do let us know by becoming a fan! Raising dogs for you and your family. Call or text .Every breed has different requirements, whether the space they must have or the amount of exercise they need. If you are not certain yet, check out our essential White German Shepherd breed info to find out everything about the White German Shepherd. How to find White German Shepherd puppies for sale? When buying a puppy, it is important to consider not only the pet but also the breeder. Because a responsible breeder will ensure their dogs come from the strongest bloodlines and have the best start to life. Ask about the health and temperament of their White German Shepherd pups as well as their living environment. But also find out about the breeder's practices and commitments. A good breeder will be happy to answer everything before you decide. After all, they will want to ensure that their dog goes to a good home. When you have done your research and got all the info you need, you can then choose the right breeder with confidence. To help ensure you choose a responsible breeder, all the White German Shepherd kennels you see listed here are verified by Pets4You. You will also find that the best breeders will provide a guarantee with their dog. This information, and more, is available on the breeder's website within Pets4You. Browse through our dog breeder directory with complete breeder profiles and current puppies for sale to find your dream dog. Disclaimer It is the duty of every person that is considering buying a puppy or dog to confirm all the information provided to them by the breeder is accurate. Pets4You makes no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the condition of any dogs offered for sale, the standards or practices of any breeder, the quality of their canines, or the accuracy of any information contained within our site. Pets4You does not endorse, recommend, or guarantee a particular kennel, breeder or dogs listed on the Pets4You website. For Buyers. Please leave this field empty. Got our girl home to Minnesota. Little freaked out by the snow and the zero temps. She is doing great. She is a lovable sweetheart. Also fairly adventuresome. In and out of tight spaces outside and crawling over a pretty sizable and messy rock pile. Anyway, thank you. Tom Ziggy is awesome! My 3 yr old hugs and lays with him and he sleeps at the door of her room at night. Sara Thanks so much Doug. Proud to be the guardian of such joy. Thank you so very much, trust me when I say he will be loved and cherished. Take care. Sharon The puppy I received, 8 week old female Legacy was beyond my expectations, she was everything I was promised and more! Everyone who meets her loves her, she is the sweetest smartest thing. She is excelling in her obedience and her service dog training, I am very blessed for that. Thank you Doug! John B. Wells — former Coast to Coast talk show host, now at Caravan to Midnight. Our dog Luna is all you said she would be and more,beautiful,intelligent,we love her so much! Thank you, Heidi P. She is fantastic! We got him from you back in July .Ghost is the most amazing dog. He is the most loyal, the most loving, protective, and smartest dog I have ever known. Have a great day! The puppy has been started on its vaccination series, dewormed, vet checked, and given lots of T.
Use tab to navigate through the menu items. He made the long trip to Maryland with no complaints. He is such a happy and confident pup. He has acclimated beautifully to his new kingdom. He has his own room with all the amenities that two empty nesters can give. My friends know how much I have been looking forward to having a pug in the house again and have basically given me a "puppy shower. She has had him on a training schedule and he is adapting beautifully. He has not had any accidents and has plenty of playtime vs nap time. I have to share my FaceTime moments with my 4 year old Georgia twins. They get on the phone saying, "We love you GramTam, can we see Moses? Thank you again. We truly feel blessed to have a pug in our home again. As soon as he has finished his shots, he will be visiting my father's nursing home. My Dad is the one that started me on my lifelong love of pugs and he is looking forward to meeting Moses. Peace to you and your family, Tammy D. Frank is settling in quite nicely here. He is eating and drinking well. His favorite thing to do is follow people around the house. If someone is moving then he want to be moving too. He and Laverne have also developed a bit of a friendship. Laverne enjoys playing with him and helping herself to all the chew toys that arrived with him. Thank you so much for creating this adorable pup! A long journey home and they were so good. They are adjusting really well! They love their new toys and their new big brother Gatsby. He is taking his time interacting in small doses and observing them from outside the pen as they try to nurse on him lol. They have a 90 percent accuracy rate on potty pads too! I just wanted to thank you once again for bringing Pearl into the world! She did great today! Thank you so much puppy. I love him so much. He is very comfortable at home. He plays with my dogs and is not scared of anything. Thank you for the snacks and everything you give. Thank you so much! My recommendation of your program could not be more glowing. Check Wesley is all settled in at his new place and is doing really well! He's slept through the night, has been peeing and pooping mostly on the pee pad and is really playful and snuggly. Hi Tammie and Anthony, I wanted to let you know that Charlie is doing great and settling in well. We gave him quiet time and a dark room last night when we got home, and he ate and drank and has been using the pee pad. He whimpered a couple of times but mostly slept great through the night! He's been more active today--lots of snuggles and licks, a really happy guy. We've been giving him lots of rest time too, though--we know it's a big transition. Quick update on Gizmo. He is doing great and is loved by everyone. He is the healthiest and happiest little guy ever. Everything you said to do when I got him worked. He never, ever whined at night when I put him in the Dark to go to bed! Thank you! Good morning! We have decided to name him Angus and we think it suits him so well! He is a perfect fit for our family and everyone adores him. He is fitting in so well and is eating regularly! He weighed in at 9. Here are some fun pics of him! Victoria Adams Izzy is the most beautiful, sweet and silly little girl! We put her in her room for 2 hours yesterday and she seemed very calm when we introduced her to her new family! Such a little love! She has been eating and drinking! She is pure perfection! They are all ready laying next to each other: So sweet! Kelly K. Just wanted to send some pics! Gus is such a love bug and is such a fun play mate for our girls. They call him Gussy. Just wanted to give you an update. We decided to name him Bean! He plays so well with my daughter and loves to follow her around the whole house. I just wanted to thank you so much for everything. She ate some wet food and potty outside right after! Wanted to thank you! You made this awesome and we already love this girl! Below are pictures of pugs that are examples of our past baby pugs and adult pugs. Pictures are either taken by us or sent to us from adopters. They are some of our favorite pictures we wanted to share with you! This page is a work in progress so check back for updates. His personality is warm and very friendly. He is intensely loyal and very protective of his people. His antics are clownish and frequent; he is constantly "protecting" us from the other Pugs Buzz is a water dog! In the summer time when it's hot out, he loves swimming in his pool. He even loves drinking straight from the water hose. Buzz is a very special dog and we have received many reports that his puppies are every bit as sweet and funny as he is. Trinity's Zorro Zorro is bred from a very distinguished bloodline. His first-rate looks are the result of a well planned, devoted selection process to produce puppies that conform very well to the AKC breed standard. He has some unique talents not normally seen in Pug behavior. He has incredibly good balance and can stand on his two rear feet with his paws in the air for extended periods of time. He loves the attention that he receives when he performs this trick, so as you would expect he is constantly doing it! All trademarks and copyrights on this page are owned by their respective owners.
Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic French Bulldog Overview Bat-eared but oddly beautiful, the French Bulldog has a unique appeal. Aesthetically, other breeds undeniably are more glamorous and showy, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder and what many behold in the French Bulldog are the attributes that make this breed one of the best companion dogs in the world today. The French Bulldog is small but substantial in build with a powerful muscular body. He sports a short easy-care coat to accompany his easygoing personality. The Frenchie likes to play, but he also enjoys spending his days relaxing on the sofa. That love of play and relaxed attitude carry over into their training sessions. French Bulldogs are intelligent, and training them is easy as long as you make it seem like a game and keep it fun. They are free thinkers and are not an ideal breed for competing in obedience or agility although some have risen to the challenge. This freethinking approach can also lead to a stubborn nature, and if they decide to dig in their heels there is no budging them. Frenchies are loving companions who thrive on human contact. If you want an outdoor dog who can be left alone for long periods, the Frenchie is not the breed for you. This is a dog who enjoys lavishing love on his human companions as much as he loves the same treatment in return. They generally get along well with everyone, including children. They can, however, be territorial and possessive of their people, especially in the presence of other dogs. Socialization is a must for this breed, but with their easy companionship this is an enjoyable task. With a nature that is both humorous and mischievous, the French Bulldog needs to live with someone who is consistent, firm, and patient with all the antics and idiosyncrasies that make him both frustrating and delightful. They can be protective of their home and family and some will try to defend both with their life. French Bulldogs do not need a lot of room and do very well in apartments or small dwellings. A couple of minute walks per day should keep them from becoming overweight. Keep the Frenchie in cool, comfortable surroundings. This is not a dog who can stay outside on a hot day. French Bulldogs are wonderful companion dogs with a gentle nature. If you work at home, the Frenchie is happy to lie at your feet all day or follow you from room to room. French Bulldog Highlights Friendly and playful: French Bulldogs are known for their friendly and playful personality. They love to cuddle and play fetch. Low-maintenance: French Bulldogs are relatively low-maintenance dogs. They only require moderate exercise and grooming. Good with children: French Bulldogs are good with children and other pets. They make great family dogs. Intelligent: French Bulldogs are intelligent dogs and can be easily trained. Adaptable: French Bulldogs can adapt to different living conditions. They are a good choice for apartment dwellers or people with active lifestyles. Healthy: French Bulldogs are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to some health problems, such as brachycephalic airway syndrome and cherry eye. Overall, French Bulldogs are great dogs for people of all ages and lifestyles. They are friendly, playful, and low-maintenance, making them a perfect addition to any family. They were originally bred to be bull-baiting dogs, but this practice was outlawed in England in .French Bulldogs were then imported to France where they became popular as companion dogs. In France, French Bulldogs were often kept by lacemakers and other artisans who worked in small shops. The dogs were prized for their gentle nature and their ability to adapt to cramped living quarters. French Bulldogs also became popular with the French upper class, and they were often depicted in paintings and sculptures. French Bulldogs were first brought to the United States in the late s, and they quickly became popular with American families. The dogs were known for their friendly and playful personality, and they made great companions for children. French Bulldogs also became popular with celebrities, and they were often featured in movies and television shows. Today, French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. They are known for their friendly and playful personality, their low-maintenance coat, and their adaptability to different living conditions. French Bulldogs make great companions for people of all ages and lifestyles. The French Bulldog thrived in France and Europe, and his charm was soon discovered by Americans as well. Males weigh 20 to 28 pounds, females 16 to 24 pounds. French Bulldog Personality This is a smart, loving dog who wants and needs to spend lots of time with his people. Hip dysplasia can exist with or without clinical signs. Some dogs exhibit pain and lameness on one or both rear legs. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Ask the breeder for proof that the parents have been tested for hip dysplasia and found to be free of problems. Brachycephalic Syndrome : This disorder is found in dogs with short heads, narrowed nostrils, or elongated or soft palates. Their airways are obstructed to varying degrees and can cause anything from noisy or labored breathing to total collapse of the airway. Dogs with brachycephalic syndrome commonly snuffle and snort. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition but includes oxygen therapy as well as surgery to widen nostrils or shorten palates. Allergies: Allergies are a common problem in dogs. The medication for inhalant allergies depends on the severity of the allergy. It is important to note that ear infections often accompany inhalant allergies. Hemivertebrae: This is a malformation of one or more vertebrae that causes it to be shaped like a wedge or triangle. This malformation can occur on its own or with other vertebrae malformations. Hemivertebra can cause no problems, or it can put pressure on the spinal cord. This can lead to pain, weakness, and or paralysis. There is no treatment for the condition unless there is spinal cord pressure. It is caused when the patella, which has three parts — the femur thigh bone , patella knee cap , and tibia calf — is not properly lined up and slips in and out of place luxates. This causes lameness or an abnormal gait the way the dog moves. The rubbing caused by patellar luxation can lead to arthritis, a degenerative joint disease. There are four grades of patellar luxation ranging from grade I, an occasional luxation causing temporary lameness in the joint, to grade IV, in which the turning of the tibia is severe and the patella cannot be realigned manually. This gives the dog a bowlegged appearance. Severe grades of patellar luxation may require surgical repair. When the disc pushes into the spinal cord, nerve transmissions are inhibited from traveling along the spinal cord. Intervertebral Disc Disease can be caused by trauma, age, or simply from the physical jolt that occurs when a dog jumps off a sofa. When the disc ruptures, the dog usually feels pain and the ruptured disc can lead to weakness and temporary or permanent paralysis. In some cases surgery can help, but it must be done within a day or so of the injury. You may also want to ask your veterinarian about physical rehabilitation. Treatments such as massage, water treadmills and electrical stimulation are available for dogs and can have excellent success. It affects the clotting process due to the reduction of von Willebrand factor in the blood. Occasionally blood is found in the stool. This disorder is usually diagnosed in your dog between the ages of 3 and 5 and cannot be cured. However, it can be managed with treatments that include cauterizing or suturing injuries, transfusions of the von Willebrand factor before surgery, and avoiding certain medications. Cleft Palate : The palate is the roof of the mouth and separates the nasal and oral cavities. It is made up of two parts, hard and soft. A cleft palate has a slit that runs bilaterally or unilaterally and can range in size from a small hole to a large slit. A cleft palate can affect both the hard and soft palate separately and together and may cause a cleft lip. Puppies can be born with cleft palates, or a cleft palate can occur from an injury. Cleft palates are fairly common in dogs, but many puppies born with a cleft palate do not survive or are euthanized by the breeder. The only treatment for a cleft palate is surgery to close the hole, although not all dogs with a cleft palate require the surgery. It is important to get a diagnosis and treatment recommendation from your veterinarian. Elongated Soft Palate: The soft palate is the extension of the roof of the mouth. When the soft palate is elongated, it can obstruct airways and cause difficulty in breathing. The treatment for Elongated Soft Palate is surgical removal of the excess palate. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Regardless of how healthy your dog is when you first bring them home, you should prepare for any issues that may come up throughout their life. French Bulldog Care French Bulldogs do not need a lot of exercise. They have fairly low energy levels, although there are exceptions to every rule. To keep their weight down, however, they need daily exercise through short walks or play times in the yard. Many French Bulldogs enjoy playing and will spend much of their time in various activities, but they are not so high energy that they need a large yard or long periods of exercise. This breed is prone to heat exhaustion and should not be exercised in hot temperatures. Limit walks and active play to cool mornings and evenings. When training a French Bulldog, take into account that although they are intelligent and usually eager to please, they are also free thinkers. That means they can be stubborn. It is important to crate train your French Bulldog puppy even if you plan to give him the freedom of the house when he reaches adulthood. French Bulldog Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 1. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. For more on feeding your Frenchie, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. The skin is loose and wrinkled, especially at the head and shoulders, and has a soft texture. French Bulldogs come in a variety of colors, including fawn, cream, various shades of brindle — a coat patterned with specks and streaks of light and dark markings — such as black brindle and the striking tiger brindle, and brindle and white, known as brindle pied. French Bulldogs can be any color except solid black, liver a solid reddish-brown with brown pigmentation on the lips and nose , mouse a light steely gray , and black with white or tan. Run from any breeder who tells you that a particular color is rare and thus worth more money. Having your heart set on a fawn female is a recipe for disappointment when the litter contains only cream and brindle males. French Bulldogs are fairly easy to groom and need only an occasional brushing to keep their coat healthy. They are average shedders. Begin grooming your Frenchie at a young age and teach your puppy to stand on a table or floor to make this experience easier on both of you. When you are grooming your Frenchie at any stage of life, take the time to check for any scabs, skin lesions, bare spots, rough, flaky skin, or signs of infections. You should also check ears, eyes and teeth for any discharge or bad smells. Both are signs that your Frenchie may need to see the veterinarian. Clean ears regularly with a damp warm cloth and run a cotton swab around the edge of the canal. Never stick the cotton swab into the actual ear canal. If the edges of the ears are dry, apply mineral or baby oil sparingly. The oil can also be used on a dry nose. French Bulldogs do not naturally wear their nails down and will need their nails trimmed regularly. This prevents splitting and tearing, which can be painful for the dog. Keep the facial wrinkles clean and dry to prevent bacterial infections. Whenever you bathe your dog, take the time to thoroughly dry the skin between the folds. Bathe your French Bulldog monthly or as needed, and use a high-quality dog shampoo to keep the natural oils in his skin and coat. French Bulldogs should be easy to groom, and with proper training and positive experiences during puppyhood, grooming can be a wonderful bonding time for you and your Frenchie. That said, no dog should ever be left alone with a young child. When they are socialized to them during puppyhood, Frenchies can get along well with other dogs and cats. French Bulldog Rescue Groups French Bulldogs are often acquired without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one, and these dogs often end up in the care of rescue groups, in need of adoption or fostering. All dogs will need veterinary care at some point in their lives. French Bulldog Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues. Below are breed clubs, organizations, and associations where you can find additional information about the French Bulldog. It appeared in Paris in the mid-nineteenth century, apparently the result of cross-breeding of Toy Bulldogs imported from England and local Parisian ratters. History[ edit ] From the beginning of the nineteenth century bulldogs were bred in the United Kingdom for purposes other than traditional blood sports such as bull-baiting, which were banned in .By , there were few Toy Bulldogs left in England, such was their popularity in France, and due to the exploits of specialist dog exporters. The dogs were highly fashionable and were sought after by society ladies and Parisian prostitutes alike, as well as creatives such as artists, writers, and fashion designers. As it changed, terrier stock had been brought in to develop traits such as the breed's long straight ears. One of its ancestors was the English bulldog. Americans had been importing French Bulldogs for a while, but it was not until when they were brought over in order to set up an American-based breeding program. They were mostly owned by society ladies, who first displayed them at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in .The judge in question at the dog show, George Raper, only chose winners with "rose ears"—ears that folded at the tip, as with the standard for Bulldogs. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed quickly after the breed club was formed, and by the French Bulldog was the fifth most popular dog breed in America. The Kennel Club initially recognized them as a subset of the existing Bulldog breed rather than an entirely new breed. Cousens, a meeting was held to set up a breed club in order to seek individual recognition for the French breed. According to the American Kennel Club, the French Bulldog has overtaken the Labrador as the most popular breed of dog. Before , Labradors had held the top spot for 31 years. Keep on reading to learn everything about French Bulldog puppies! French bulldogs All you need to know about Frenchies: a short summary History in a nutshell French Bulldogs were first bred as a smaller version of the English Bulldog in the 19th-century England. They were particularly popular among lacemakers in Nottinghamshire, who initially kept them to chase rats but soon fell in love with their small size and calm, friendly nature. After the Industrial Revolution, they had to move to southern France where lacemaking was still done by hand and took their dogs with them. Frenchies soon got popular in the circles of French artists, actors, writers in Paris as well as rich Americans visiting the city. In fact, they loved Frenchies so much that they took them to the US, where they finally got recognized by the AKC in .Frenchie Characteristics French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds thanks to their fun, adaptable, friendly nature and distinctive look. You can easily recognize them by their flat, heavily wrinkled faces and large, erect bat ears, which make them absolutely adorable. Despite having the strong, muscular body of a bulldog Frenchies are small in size: adult males usually weigh 20 to 28 pounds while females are 16 to 24 pounds. Frenchie Colors Frenchies come in a wide variety of different colors and patterns. There are standard French Bulldog colors like black, fawn, cream and patterns like pied and brindle, which are considered common for the breed. Rare and unique colors like blue and lilac, as well as patterns like tan and merle have gained more popularity in recent years. Frenchie Personality French Bulldogs probably have the biggest personality among all the dog breeds. They are funny, friendly and insanely affectionate, making them the perfect companions for anyone. They are also highly intelligent and need a fair amount of mental stimulation. Frenchies are like small children: simply irresistible! Giving only high- quality food, ensuring regular training and exercise, finding a good vet and not exposing them to too much heat is also essential to provide a long and happy life for your French Bulldog. They are little clowns who always do something silly to make you laugh! They are amazing companions who get along with everyone in the family from small kids to older people, other dog breeds and even cats. Shall we go on?! The exact amount usually depends on various factors like the color, gender and age of a puppy as well as the breeder you get your puppy from. Breeding Frenchies requires a lot of time, effort, care and money, so those who are dedicated to only having high-quality and healthy French Bulldog puppies will ask a larger sum starting from 4, USD. Colors and patterns considered common for the breed like black brindle and fawn have the lowest prices ranging from 4, to 5, USD, while blue, lilac and merle which are more unique and harder to produce come at a higher price as well ranging from 6, to 8, USD. Isabella and fluffy Frenchies are the rarest, most valuable and most expensive from 8, to 30, USD. When it comes to age and gender, younger female Frenchies usually cost a couple of hundreds more than older male puppies. What's included in the price? Life Span Did You Know? While the name of this breed is the French Bulldog, their origins cannot be credited to only France. One of the facts about French Bulldogs is that the idea and reason for the creation of the breed originated in England. This adorable dog breed, which has always been meant to be a companion, started as a miniature version of the English Bulldog. This mini-version accompanied lace workers across the English Channel and into France during the Industrial Revolution. Once the dog breed became prominent in France, the subsequent successful crossbreeding of the English Bulldog, Pug, and Terrier led to the creation of the modern-day Frenchie. The French Bulldog we know today originally came to the United States with groups of wealthy Americans who came across them and fell in love while touring Europe in the late s. The French Bulldog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in and is a member of the non-sporting group. The French Bulldog is an easygoing, affectionate, and playful dog that loves their family and gets along well with children. They also love to make new friends, which means they get along well with other dogs, animals, and people. Intelligent and affectionate, this small dog breed certainly wins over hearts and earns its status as a popular companion dog. Frenchies are not known to bark much, unless you train them into it, but they are naturally alert and make excellent watchdogs. As long as they are well-socialized and trained, they tend to have an open and friendly nature. The Frenchie is a highly adaptable dog that pretty much adapts to any living situation that includes plenty of love and attention. Being a short-snouted, snub-nosed dog breed, they do not tolerate heat very well and are also sensitive to cold. This tends to make them one of the dog breeds that hate winter and you will want to make sure to bundle them up to stay warm while out on cold winter walks. Because Frenchies bond closely with their families and thrive on attention from them, they do not tolerate long periods of time alone. They can also be prone to developing separation anxiety if they are poorly socialized or you do not work with them on this when they are young. Potential health concerns to be aware of in French Bulldogs can include cataracts, cherry eye, and entropion. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances. Heart and joint certifications are recommended for this breed. Playful and happy, the French Bulldog is a great fit for a novice dog owner. They are sweet-tempered, eager to please, and eager to train. Occasionally, Frenchies can be stubborn and they do tend to have big personalities. Although this can sometimes be a challenge for first-time dog owners, it can usually be overcome with consistent and patient training. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training. Standard coat colors for Frenchies are Brindle, Cream, Fawn, and combinations of these. They have a short coat that will shed a little year-round. Nail trims once or twice a month keep nails from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks, along with careful cleanings as needed, can help prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, the Frenchie is more prone to developing gum disease. Daily dental care plus cleanings at the vet as needed can help prevent this and other painful dental diseases later in life. You will also need to take care of the wrinkles. Frenchies have hereditary face wrinkles and it is important to keep them clean and dry to prevent skin irritation or possible infection. The French Bulldog is an easygoing companion breed. They can be one of the laziest dog breeds that are couch potatoes. Frenchies will often be energetic when they play and will try to match their activity to yours. So, if you live a more active lifestyle, you need to be careful that your French Bulldog is not overexerting themselves trying to keep up with you. As a Brachycephalic or snub-nosed dog, they cannot cool themselves as easily and are extra sensitive to heat. They can also get winded easily, so be aware of this when playing with your dog or puppy and watch for signs of overexertion. There are safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs and you can work with your vet on specifics for your Frenchie if needed. French Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Frenchies generally live for years on average. With this dog breed being so popular, there are plenty of celebrities who have chosen the French Bulldog as their companion, which also means there are plenty of famous Frenchies out there. Also, French Bulldogs cannot swim, at least without a life vest. They can be taught to swim while wearing one, but they should never be left unattended around bodies of water or swimming pools and require constant supervision while in the water. Featured French Bulldog Article.
Do you want to know the secrets of how to make a German Shepherd love you? Imagine how amazing your life would look as your German Shepherd gazes at you with affection and admiration! German Shepherd love and affection is amazing… when you know the secrets to their hearts! I love my German Shepherd and wanted to learn more about how to get a German Shepherd to love you. While the GSD is considered more stoic in their nature, they can also show signs of love openly to their families and enjoy giving their chosen few people their undying attention. Are you looking to bond with your German Shepherd? Now is NOT the time to begin harsh punishment or rigorous, demanding training. As a puppy, or even a new adult dog, show them your affection and attention so they understand that you are a kind and understanding person who wants to help them. Never think you need force to train your GSD! Bonding means your Shepherd wants to be with you, so do things that make your GSD shy away from your affection. Pick a quiet time with no other people or animals around to distract you and your dog. Gently caress their ears or face and look into their eyes. Talk positively to them and use their name frequently in a gentle tone. Sleep with Your German Shepherd or enjoy a nap with them A normal night of sleep is around 8 hours for most people. Your breed is naturally protective and could see you kicking them out of the bedroom or shutting the door on them as a lack of love and affection. This makes them feel at ease and safe next to their person. This is a perfect opportunity to show her some love and affection! This takes just a few seconds but is a great way to make a German Shepherd love you every day. Massage Them for a Super Bond Want to know the secret to a super bond with your dog? Bonus: it also removes loose hair. Massaging your dog is calming to them and they will associate you with relaxing affectionate times. The SPCA states that massage helps reduce stress and this means that you are the bringer of good things for them! Massaging also increases your bond with and teaches them that you love spending time with them! Quiet time relaxing with your dog also gives you a chance to relax and studies show it can lower your blood pressure when you stroke your dog for at least 5 minutes… Preferably every day. Train your German Shepherd daily for positive German Shepherd love! German Shepherds love training with their person! Especially positive and fun training, that uses motivation and their drive like in this program that uses brain games that increase their mental stimulation and improves their behavior. Instead, show them you are a fun and fair leader full of love and affection for them with games and training. German Shepherd love is all about how you treat your companion. Knowing how to make a German Shepherd love you is part of welcoming them into your life. And you should also learn how to make your German Shepherd happy so they thrive in your life! Sweeten your bond and love by spending time positively engaging with them and giving them a good doggy life. Would you also like to learn the trade secrets of professionals to get your dog to become dedicated to you for life using the power of science and compassionate training? Go ahead, show your German Shepherd how much you love them! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Final Thoughts German Shepherds Are Affectionate Dogs German Shepherds are notorious for taking down back guys, sniffing to find people lost in remote areas, and search and rescue teams. However, German Shepherds love affection. These dogs also love to please their owners and make them happy. Sometimes, German Shepherds will do things to try and make their owners happy so that they can have affection. Additionally, obeying commands and instructions is a significant way that German Shepherds show love for others. German Shepherd puppies are excitable and affectionate. They will likely jump up on you, wag their tail, and may pee when they get too excited. German Shepherd being curious beside his owner. German Shepherds Are Perfect For Families German Shepherds are ideal for a house pet of a busy, outdoorsy family with a large backyard and a tall fence. This dog breed is open to strangers when they know the stranger is safe. Because of their semi-reserved nature, German Shepherds are perfect for letting the family know in the event of an intruder or alerting those nearby of danger. German Shepherds are vigilant and will act as mother hens for young children, ensuring they are not wandering too close to water, pools, or open windows. Additionally, a German Shepherd can multi-task and remain vigilant while being playful. German Shepherd looks after the baby. Some ways may be easier to identify, but others may be more subtle. There are some tell-tale signs that your German Shepherd is giving you their uninterrupted devotion. There are countless ways that a German Shepherd may be giving affection, and these may differ depending on each special dog. Look at our 11 methods of love expression for German Shepherds to see if your furry friend is giving you love without realizing it! Snuggling up may mean snatching your belongings, phone, laptops, or books before your furry pal rests their body weight onto your legs. However, the warmth and tail wag are worth the sudden move. German Shepherds may lean their bodies against yours while keeping their eyes peeled for dangers or intruders. German Shepherd sits with his owner in the field. This nudging may mean they want something specific like a treat, a walk, or a meal. Sometimes they want a pat on the head, or they could be gently reminding you that you are their favorite person and that they love you. When a nudge is a declaration of love, your German Shepherd will usually nudge you and put their head down next to you or move their attention on to the next thing. German Shepherd nudges his owner to show affection. They Bring Toys and Gifts Animals will often bring gifts to their owners and friends to show appreciation. Dogs are no different, and German Shepherds often bring their owners sticks, stuffed animals, or blankets when they want to show their owners affection. A German Shepherd trying to show love to its owners may bring their favorite item to their owner or friend. Be vigilant about what kinds of toys your German Shepherd brings you. German Shepherd plays with his toy at the park. They Wag Their Tails Constantly Like many other dogs, a German Shepherd will wag their tails to show they are happy with your presence. This behavior will come with licking, barking, and sniffing. German Shepherd approaching his owner. They Follow Instructions German Shepherds love having tasks to do and thrive on encouragement from a job well done. When your German Shepherd follows your instructions and obeys your every command, they are offering their love and affection for you. German Shepherds will show you how much they adore you by obeying your every command consistently. Keep an eye on how often your German Shepherd is following your instructions to see whether they are showing you affection. Owner trains her train German Shepherd. They Lick and Groom You Dogs are known to groom each other when they want to express their love or adoration for others. This grooming will extend to their human companions. Licking and grooming mean that they love you and they want to do something special for you. They Look You In The Eyes Some dogs do not enjoy maintaining eye contact, but German Shepherds will be intense about keeping eye contact when they want you to know that they love you. Sometimes, a German Shepherd may also smile while maintaining eye contact to express their love and happiness at having you in their life. Two German Shepherds lying on the grass after a training. When your German Shepherd decides to rest their head in your lap , they trust you to keep them safe, healthy, and happy. This act of calmness means that they love you and enjoy your presence. They Smile When You Come Home There is nothing more satisfying than the feeling of walking inside to an excited and happy dog. A German Shepherd is no exception and will wag its tail and bark to show you how excited they are to be reunited again. However, some dogs, including a German Shepherd, will smile at you in greeting. This smile is not to be confused with an aggressive showing of teeth or growl. When a German Shepherd smiles at you, it may accompany sneezing, which dogs will do to communicate that they are calm and happy. German Shepherd smiles upon seeing his owner. German Shepherds are hardwired to be on the lookout for danger, and part of their affection expression means keeping you safe, no matter where you go. If your German Shepherd is following you everywhere, they may be trying to keep you safe because they love you or thrive on your company. Black German Shepherd running. German Shepherds usually love games of toy tug and chasing. However, German Shepherds are highly adaptable and will play nearly any game that you want to play with them. A German Shepherd will roughhouse with you or nudge you to play with them when they want you to know they enjoy your time and are expressing their affection for you. German Shepherd hyper actively plays with a ball. Final Thoughts German Shepherds have dozens of ways of showing you and your family affection. German Shepherds are one of the most affectionate and adoring dog breeds and are also intensely loyal. These dog breeds enjoy doing tasks and jobs. They also love doting on their owners, bringing them gifts, and laying in the lap of a person they love. There are many ways that a German Shepherd will offer affection and love to their owners, visitors, or friends. Loving expressions may mean wanting to play, give up their favorite toys, or follow you around the house, among many other signs. Your German Shepherd may have special and unique signs that mean they love you, like looking into your eyes, climbing into your lap, or laying on clothing or materials that have your scent. A German Shepherd is a perfect pet for a family looking for an affectionate, intelligent, and fun-loving dog. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. On the other hand, German Shepherds are known for how well they work with people, driven by a deep desire to please their human companions. Altogether, this adds up to a dog that bonds strongly with their human companions and shows lots of love and affection. Of course, the way a GSD shows affection for their family is far different than how their family shows affection for them. Even so, there are good reasons why German Shepherds have been the second most popular breed of dog for the last decade, starting with their loving and affectionate natures. As mentioned, German Shepherds were bred, in part, for loyalty. When performing the type of jobs that these dogs are often employed in, loyalty and obedience are vital qualities. German Shepherds are one of the breeds that tend to bond closest with a single person. A GSD will pick one person in the family, usually the person they view as the leader, and form the closest bond with them. And German Shepherds can still be loving with the rest of the family, even the kids! They also want to be a part of everything you do. However, your own German Shepherd is a different matter. Look for eye contact lasting three seconds or longer to indicate the deep affection and trust your German Shepherd feels for you. Dogs use body language, primarily through their tail movement , to communicate with each other. Still, certain tail movements can be interpreted to have specific meanings. The faster their tail is wagging, the more excited they are about the current situation. But researchers have discovered that communication through tail movements goes even deeper. Similarly, you can tell how comfortable they are with that human by the amplitude of the tail wagging. They might be licking your legs , your arms, or even your face! People have various feelings about such behaviors. Either way, you should take this behavior as a positive sign. You might not like being sticky and wet, but one of the main reasons that German Shepherds lick and groom their owners is that they love them! Of course, sometimes, German Shepherds lick their owners just for the flavor! So, you should certainly take that excitement as a positive sign of affection. Few people in your life, human or otherwise, will ever be as excited to see you as your German Shepherd! These dogs are used for a litany of canine jobs, after all, ranging from police and military work to search and rescue or even therapy work. But despite their generally calm dispositions and exceptional work ethic, German Shepherds can be extremely playful pups, particularly with their favorite people! Watch how two dogs that love each other play together. They always get rough and rambunctious! For dogs, playing is a vital form of bonding, and playing with your GSD in such a way will help to continually improve the bond between you. These are common experiences for all dog owners, but especially those with dogs as intelligent and empathetic as German Shepherds. But your German Shepherd wants to be around you all the time. Literally, all the time! Your German Shepherd wants to be right up against you, pressed against your side, practically on top of you! However, many German Shepherd parents do let their dogs sleep in bed with them, and the fact that your Shepherd prefers to sleep in bed beside you is a major sign of affection. Your GSD moseys over and places their head squarely in your lap. Naturally, you reach your hand down and give your GSD a little scratch behind the ears and pet them under the chin. Though satisfied, your dog simply keeps their head there. Why else would your GSD want so much of your attention? When you come home, does your German Shepherd jump up on you, putting their front paws up on your belly or chest? This is why it feels like your GSD is looking for every opportunity to be as close to you as possible…they are! Ever notice that whenever you sit down, your German Shepherd suddenly appears, seeming to believe that your lap is the perfect place to lay down? While your GSD is a puppy, this is cute and you probably like it. Once your GSD is full-sized, however, it can be much more difficult to let them up on your lap! This is a sign of affection, so it can be cute, but at the same time, a giant German Shepherd hopping up on your lap can be crushing! If you have more than one, you might notice that they often fight over toys, as one or the other may claim particular toys as their own. Even so, your GSD can be very giving and sharing. Has your GSD ever brought you their favorite toy as an offering? Sometimes, however, this is actually an offering. This is one of the ultimate signs of affection that your German Shepherd can display. Sighs can be emitted when bored, sad, or even when content. Your GSD comes and lays beside you. You start to pet them. They reposition a little, and as they get comfortable, they take in a deep breath before letting out a long and relieving sigh. Does this sound familiar? This is because of your presence and touch. Your German Shepherd loves you so much that just your presence can make their whole world feel content and complete! If you work in some petting, you may even get a few grunts mixed in with their sighs! Even though your German Shepherd might roll over for you to pet them, the underlying meaning is the same. Often, those spots have smells that are associated with you. For instance, does your GSD ever lay on your dirty laundry? Or maybe they prefer to lay on your bed? These items bring comfort to your pooch since they love you so much. When this happens, your dog might even lick or chew items just because they smell and taste like you. While these behaviors might seem a little gross to you, they help your dog to feel closer to you. Ever notice the way that two dogs that are close with each other tend to lay on top of each other when they sleep? Well, your GSD will do the same with you, wanting to lay down with their body against yours while they relax or even while they sleep so they can be comforted by your presence. They may not be as cuddly a Pittie but most German Shepherds will enjoy a good snuggle! Your dog does this to prolong the physical touch between you because it makes them feel content and relaxed. It should go without saying that the only reason physical touch between you and your German Shepherd makes them feel so good is because they love you so much! Still, the fact that your German Shepherd does obey you is a clear sign of their respect and love for you. German Shepherds are incredibly smart dogs. Remember, researchers discovered that German Shepherds are the third smartest of all breeds, as I mentioned earlier. For your German Shepherd to follow your commands, they must love and trust you deeply. Often, dogs from animal shelters and humane societies have had less-than-ideal lives. Many have been abused or at least found reasons to become fearful and distrusting. If your German Shepherd is a rescue, then it may have the natural inclination to display such behaviors. Namely, their intelligence, loyalty, and natural protective instincts. Some dog breeds have faces that naturally appear to be smiling. Instead, GSD faces often seem intimidating! Even so, many GSD owners have seen their dogs exhibit facial expressions that look an awful lot like smiling. In truth, they are smiling! As you can see, there are many ways that your German Shepherd shows their affection for you. But things change as your GSD matures, which often includes behavioral changes. These changes also extend to the way that your German Shepherd shows affection for you. Puppies may behave in the following ways to express their love for you, but generally, they either grow out of these behaviors or are trained out of them by the time they reach adulthood. Adult German Shepherds can contain their excitement to displays of intense tail wagging, for the most part. But if your adult German Shepherd is still peeing when they see you, then you might have bigger problems on your hands! Still, your German Shepherd is very likely to jump on you as a puppy. Even so, you should put an end to this behavior as early as possible. Also, be aware of the difference between chewing a few of your items and obsessively chewing, licking, and eating non-food items, which is a condition known as pica. These behaviors are negative, and if you see your German Shepherd behaving in the following ways, you should put a stop to it through training. Not only is excessive licking annoying, but it can also be a sign of pica or anxiety. Herding When your German Shepherd herds the children to keep them in the yard, the behavior is cute and harmless. German Shepherds are members of the herding group , so herding behavior is natural to the breed. Affection from Male vs Female German Shepherds Overall, many of the affectionate behaviors displayed by male and female German Shepherds will be similar, but there may still be some behavioral differences between the sexes. These differences will likely have more of an effect than the differences caused by sex. Anecdotally, some people have noticed that males tend to be more affectionate than females in general. It has also been observed that females tend to be more territorial than males, a trait that is often noted to become stronger after giving birth. But many German Shepherds love nothing more than to cuddle up with their favorite human! You should be able to tell pretty easily whether your GSD likes to cuddle or not. Devote Plenty of Time to Play and Exercise For your German Shepherd, few things are more fun and enjoyable than a good play session with their favorite person! German Shepherds are extremely energetic dogs that need a lot of activity. Playing with your GSD and taking them on walks, jogs, hikes, and other activities is great for their health, but it also shows them how much you love them. Your German Shepherd wants to be part of everything you do, and you make them feel loved and included when you let them accompany you on your trips or you make special trips just for them. Play a game of tug-of-war or fetch with your German Shepherd and see how happy they get! Again, this is not just for the positive health benefits, though there are plenty of those. Playing together or doing physical activities can help strengthen the bond between you and your German Shepherd and really shows them how much you care. Along the same lines, you can use grooming as another form of petting. Closing Thoughts There are nearly countless ways that your German Shepherd shows their affection for you. About The Author Dean Eby An avid learner with a thirst for experience, Dean has spent a lifetime discovering interests and digesting as much knowledge as possible. 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.
Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Jack-A-Poos are at the top of the spectrum for energy and needing exercise. This is good news to combat their tendency for weight gain. They are versatile at either apartment or house lifestyles, due to their smaller size. They do enjoy time outside for mental and physical stimulation, and long walks and games agility, catch, etc. That smaller size could also make them vulnerable to wild predators. Their sense of adventure and wanderlust could send them off running into unfamiliar territory, as well. Brushing their teeth a few times a week is also a good idea to promote good dental health. You can ask your vet to show you how to do any of these tasks. Dividing the food into two or three meals during the day, as opposed to unlimited access, will help your dog not to overeat. You may need to take them outside to go to the bathroom before that, especially if they are very young or very old. Every dog is different with how quickly they need to go to the bathroom, but the more vigorous exercise should wait till after the safety period. Colors include white, black, brown, tan, gray, and blue—and coats can be a mix of these colors. Noses are always black, and eyes are always brown. Grooming is fairly low-maintenance, only necessitating brushing once a week and bathing as needed. Professional grooming every so often may help the dog look their best, too. In general, Jack-A-Poos are pretty tolerant to both heat and cold, but there are a few differences. Poodles do not have an undercoat, which means they tolerate heat more easily and cold less easily. Jack Russell Terriers do have an undercoat. Many small dogs do well with coats or sweaters when it is extra cold or snowy in the winter, so that may be helpful for your Jack-A-Poo, too. As with all dogs, Jack-A-Poos will do best if they have early socialization and training. This will emphasize the loving, loyal traits of your dog, and it can minimize the hunting ancestry. With early socialization, Jack-A-Poos can be great with children and other pets. However, without that early socialization, they may become aggressive. However, you may want to try Jack Russell Terrier or Poodle breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. While genetic testing is not very common in mixed breeds, a quality breeder can often breed out common problems that afflict the pure bread parents, leading to a higher price. These pups can also be found in dog shelters. These dogs tend to be loyal and love to spend time with their human companions. They create strong bonds with their families, especially with children. Many consider the Jack Russell parent the perfect earth work dog. The Poodle parent is one of the most intelligent dog breeds. The poodle pan is a water retriever and has a remarkable swimming ability. It gets along well with all family members, especially if it receives plenty of early socialization. The Jack-A-Poo gets all its intelligence from its Poodle parents. Their high intelligence makes them great watchdogs. Are These Dogs Good for Families? It usually chooses to hang out near family members and like to be included in any family functions. Its excellent watchdog skills will keep your family safe. A Jack Russell Terrier and a Poodle getting into mischief. You can expect to feed your pet up to a cup of dog food each day spread out over several meals. We recommend a dry dog food with high-quality protein listed as its top ingredient. We also recommend foods that contain antioxidants and omega fats. If you are a jogger, they might like to run with you, and in many cases, children can help your pet get the exercise it needs. Swimming is a great way to burn off excess energy. The Jack-A-Poo is also eager to please and will enjoy learning new tricks to satisfy their master. There are many tricks you can teach them, and the key to keeping them interested is to use positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement means to shower your pet with praise and offer treats when they successfully follow one of your commands. As they get better at following your commands, you can reduce the number of treats you give out to prevent weight gain. Holding your training sessions at the same time each day is also a critical component of a successful training session. You will need to brush then about once a week with a stiff-bristled brush to remove any tangles and debris that may have become trapped in the fur. Since their ears are floppy, you will also need to clean them often to reduce the risk of ear infections due to moisture and wax build-up. You will also need to trim the nails about once a month, or when you hear them clicking on the floor when they walk. Minor Conditions Patellar Luxation: Patellar Luxation is a condition that causes the kneecap to slip out of place due to the stretching of the Patellar ligament. Hip Dysplasia is a genetic condition that causes the hip socket to form incorrectly. The improperly formed hip socket does not allow the smooth movement of the leg bone, which wears down and deteriorates over time, making it harder for your pet to move around. Symptoms of Hip Dysplasia include decreased activity, decreased motion, pain, stiffness, and a wobbling gate. In some cases, surgery can be an effective form of treatment. Serious Conditions Epilepsy: Epilepsy is a condition in dogs that can cause them to have seizures. Epilepsy is the most common neurological disorder that affects dogs, and almost one percent of all dogs suffer from it. If you notice your dog having seizures, you will need to keep a detailed diary that you can share with your vet to help diagnose and treat the condition. Most treatments involve medication, and most pets can live a long life with epilepsy. Symptoms of this disease are vague but may include lethargy, diarrhea, and vomiting. You may also notice intermittent shaking and sudden weight loss. Both are typically the same height and weight and have the same temperament. Summary The Jack-A-Poo makes a great family pet as well as an affectionate companion. It likes to play games, learn new tricks, and watch over the house. It may chase some smaller animals around the yard, but the Jack-A-Poo usually gets along well with family pets, especially if they receive early socialization. We hope you have enjoyed reading our look into the Jack-A-Poo breed and found something you like. Knowing the parents can help you better understand what a Jackapoo is like. Miniature Poodles Toy Poodle Poodles come in three varieties: standard, miniature, and toy. As such, Poodles are fantastic sniffers. However, nowadays Miniature Poodles are bred for companionship and while they enjoy sniffing and working, they also enjoy the company of their owners. Poodles are extremely intelligent, active, and fast learners, and many Poodle owners attest to their intelligence by describing them as intuitive and easy to train. People used Jack Russells for hunting small games like rabbits, foxes, and birds. Like Poodles, the Jack Russell is also energetic and dislikes sitting still for too long. Due to their hunting instinct, they love to stay engaged and require plenty of mental enrichment throughout the week. However, putting in the time to give a Jack Russell menta stimulation and games is essential, otherwise they may become destructive think chewing your shoes or gnawing on your baseboards. Energetic Jackapoos are very active, which is a no-brainer considering the parent dogs are also highly energetic. If you plan to give your Jackapoo puppy a bunch of toys and expect them to be happy, the Jackapoo is not the right dog for you. Jackapoos need lots of attention and active participation from their owners. Jackapoos are ideal for active families who plan to take them on walks throughout the day. At least 60 minutes is ideal, along with training and mental stimulation. Social Jackpoodles are great family dogs. Intelligent As both Jack Russell Terriers and Mini Poodles are highly intelligent, the Jackapoo is one smart cookie The Jackapoo is quick on the uptake, easily learning new tricks and family routines, and even sniffing out friends and foes. Surprisingly, this small pooch makes a great guard dog. Their bold bark and unwavering confidence are sure to scare off any unwanted visitors. Stubborn Despite being intelligent and easy to train Jackapoos also have a stubborn streak, which means you need to have plenty of patience with them. With the right training, you can teach your Jackapoo to listen to your commands and—in most cases—listen to you. Loyal Jackapoo dogs are known for their unwavering loyalty to their owners. These loving pups form strong bonds with their human family members and will go to great lengths to protect them. They are highly affectionate and thrive on attention, and can be anxious when you leave. Jackapoos are also highly intuitive and can sense when their owners are feeling down or stressed, providing them with comfort and support. Dogs dig for a variety of reasons, but the biggest is for stress relief and boredom. You can easily correct this behavior by ensuring you provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Both Poodles and Jack Russell Terriers enjoy swimming, so if you want to mix things up, take your Jackapoo for a swim. Appearance Colors Prepare to be charmed by the colorful colors of the Jackapoo puppy! These playful pups come in a variety of colors, including black, white, grey, blue, brown, tan, and even mixed shades. With muscular bodies inherited from their Jack Russell Terrier parent and a coat that resembles their Poodle parent, these pups are truly one-of-a-kind. Coat A Jackapoos coat depends on genetics, but typically, they have a wiry coat, giving them a scruffy and cute appearance. However, they can also have wavy and curly coats, thanks to their Poodle genetics. Height and weight Weighing between 13 to 25 pounds and growing to a height of about 10 to 16 inches, Jackapoos are the perfect size for any home. A daily brush is ideal, but at the very least, it should be brushed once every two to three days. This will help to distribute the natural oils in their coat, keeping it shiny and healthy. This can prevent common issues such as ear infections, tooth decay, and overgrown nails that can cause discomfort to your furry friend. This can be done with a warm cotton cloth and a cleaning solution recommended by your vet or groomer. Another crucial aspect of maintenance is dental care. Long nails can cause pain when walking or running and can even lead to joint problems over time. Health problems Jackapoos are susceptible to the same health problems as their parent breeds. Here are some health problems known to Jackapoos: Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that affects the hip joint and can lead to arthritis and lameness in Jackapoo dogs. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help prevent this condition, but if your dog is diagnosed with hip dysplasia, medication, surgery, or other treatment options may be necessary. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that can cause seizures in Jackapoo dogs. Treatment for hypothyroidism involves hormone replacement therapy. Patellar luxation is a condition in which the kneecap pops out of place, causing pain and limping in Jackapoo dogs. Mild cases may not require treatment, but severe cases may require surgery. Skin disease can affect Jackapoo dogs, causing itching, redness, and other symptoms. Causes of skin disease can vary, including allergies, parasites, or infections. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause of the skin disease. Cataracts can develop in Jackapoo dogs, causing cloudy or blurred vision. Treatment options may include medication, surgery, or other management strategies, depending on the severity of the cataracts. The cost depends on factors like parent breed history and whether the puppy is dewormed, vaccinated, spayed, or chipped. You can cut these costs with things like pet insurance, although, the jury is still out on whether pet insurance actually saves money in the end. Where to find Jackapoo puppies Breeders Being that Jackapoos are hard to find, finding a reputable breeder can be even more challenging. Start by researching breeders online and reading reviews from previous buyers. A reputable breeder will prioritize the health and welfare of their dogs over profit. I put together a list of Doodle dog rescues to help you find a Jackapoo available for adoption. Alternatively, you can call up Jackapoo breeders and ask to have your name put on an adoption list. Oftentimes, breeders will take back the dog if the family they sold it to can no longer care for it. Jackapoos need lots of stimulation, both physical and mental, in order to be happy. Aside from that, they also need someone who can put in the time to care for their non-shedding coat, which requires plenty of brushing and trips to the groomers. Jackapoos are energetic, fun, and love to be by your side. No, the AKC does not recognize the Jackapoo. Do Jackpoodles shed a lot? But they require lots of brushing and grooming. Are Jackapoos good for first-time dog owners? Jackapoos are suitable for first-time dog owners as long as they can commit to daily exercise and training! Amazon Associates Program This article may include affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a commission from qualifying purchase. The cost is not inflated to account for the commission earned. Veterinary Disclaimer: travellingwithadog. Please consult your vet for any questions you have regarding your pets health. She has years of experience fostering dogs and has helped find homes for a variety of different breeds, both large and small! Learn more about her here. It is a cross between the Jack Russell and the Poodle. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. Here he is on a walk. I had stopped to see how he'd react to the many distractions of the park a small herd of deer had run by, causing many of the dogs in their gardens to go crazy! But instead of straining to meet the other dogs are chase the deer which would make any JRT huntsman proud , he stops and looks up at me! I was worried about him being too feisty or energetic but he seems to be very Poodle-ly in personality rare for this mix by what I've been reading and quickly accepts others as alpha. He does okay with young children, opting for the "You guys have fun, I'll just sit back and watch. He enjoys walks, belly and ear scratching sessions, and chilling with the Neapolitan Mastiff next door although I think their friendship is pretty one sided.He is 3-quarters Poodle and a quarter Jack Russell. Very clever and easily picks up tricks. Abby is Lexy's sister. White, black, brown, gray, blue, or a mix of these colors Suitable for: Active families, those looking for a low-shedding dog Temperament: Happy intelligent, energetic, gentle, loyal, affectionate, stubborn The Jack a Poo is also known as the Jackadoodle. This is a dog that needs a lot of exercise, and it adores being outdoors. These dogs can also be yappy which can be a concern if you live in an apartment or have close neighbors. Overall, Jack a Poos make great family dogs as they love kids and can get along with other pets. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. This breed is more hypoallergenic than many others which is great for people with allergies. This is an active and playful dog that needs a lot of exercise. On top of being energetic, a Jack a Poo is also a gentle and affectionate dog that loves to cuddle. This dog gets along great with kids as well as with other dogs and even cats if introduced properly. This dog needs frequent exercise and loves playing outdoors. This is not an aggressive dog although it can be stubborn. To train this breed, you must have patience and perseverance. In fact, if you put a Jack a Poo in a backyard with a couple of kids, the dog will think it died and went to heaven, it will have that much fun! Are These Dogs Good for Families? This dog will love everyone in the family, from the smallest child to the eldest. This dog is well-suited for an active family that likes to get out and go. This dog may look at a small pet like a hamster or rat as prey, so caution is advised if you have such a pet. The same holds true for birds. This dog can become jealous if a new dog is brought into the family. You can feed this dog dry kibble or wet dog food, as long as the food is of good quality. This dog can either be walked on a leash several times a day or allowed to run free in a fenced yard or both if possible. Another great way to exercise a Jack a Poo is to sign up for dog agility training. Miniature Poodles are known for being highly trainable and obedient while the more laid-back Jack Russell is rather stubborn at times. A Jack a Poo learns quickly and is eager to please. This dog thrives on positive reinforcement so plan on giving your dog lots of praise and the occasional treat during your training sessions. If your dog starts showing his stubborn side, ignore him and wait it out! Like other breeds, a jack a Poo needs to have its ears cleaned out regularly to prevent infection. This can be done using a warm washcloth with a little soap and water. You should only bathe a Jack a Poo when the dog is very dirty because over-bathing can lead to dry, irritated skin. A Jack a Poo also needs to have his nails trimmed every couple of weeks. Serious Conditions. Jackapoo puppies A Working History The Jackpoo has been being produced accidentally for decades, but has only recent taken off as a designer dog breed. Their history to now is really the origins of their ancestral breeds. Jack Russell Terriers were bred in England in the mids. Bred to be used as hunting dogs, mostly for fox, rabbit and other small game. Quick enough to keep up with other hunting breeds, but small and sturdy enough to flush and capture small game. The Poodle has a longer history, dating back over years. The Standard Poodle originated in Germany, where it was bred to be a retrieving dog for duck hunters. The Standard Poodle, a full-sized dog, was bred down to the companion Miniature Poodle. The first Toy Poodle , an even smaller version, was bred in America in the early 20th century. What Do They Look Like? Like any mixed-breed dog, there will be some variance in Jackapoo appearance from dog to dog. Your Jackapoo puppy could inherit more characteristics of the Poodle, or more of the Jack Russell Terrier. This is typically a small dog, weighing around lbs and measuring inches. Their adult size will depend a little on whether it was bred from a Miniature Poodle or a Toy Poodle. Coat color is usually black, brown, tan or white, or a mix of multiple shades. Some longer tufts of hair around the face and snout are common. Do Jackapoos Shed A Lot? Did you know that the Jackapoo is often considered hypoallergenic? However, many allergy sufferers report being able to spend more time around low-shedding breeds, like the Jackapoo! They will however need regular grooming and clipping to keep their fur coats tidy and mat-free! Temperament Traits Generally speaking, the Jackapoo will inherit the intelligence and pride of the Poodle, and the active, hardworking nature of the Jack Russell. Some break the mould and bear a very strong resemblance to one parent over the other. But what results is always an active, high-energy crossbreed that loves to have a job to do. Jackapoos require frequent exercise, and love to play outside. They also can be big barkers, if not trained otherwise. Jackapoos are not typically aggressive, so long as they are trained and socialized from a young age. The Jack Russell Terrier can be somewhat stubborn or aggressive with other animals, so again, socialization is very important. They can be a bit noisy, but tend not to push or jump up. And are likely to be too small to knock over a kid too. Training The trainability of the Jackapoo depends on which parent breed comes through stronger. The Poodle is famous for its obedience and trainability, while the Jack Russell can have a bit more of a stubborn side. Both parent breeds are extremely intelligent, so training usually goes well. Some Jackapoos can have a stubborn, prideful streak, which can sometimes complicate training plans. Patience might be required. Your Jackapoo should be trained frequently, using positive reinforcement training. If need be, you can hire a professional trainer — but most Jackapoos can be trained at home. The Jack Russell in your Jackapoo might cause the dog to bark frequently. This can usually be addressed through training, but nonetheless is something to keep in mind. Socialization and Exercise This is a very high energy dog! Your Jackapoo will need plenty of exercise every day. Socialization is very important for all dogs, but particularly for the Jackapoo. If they are not exposed to plenty of other animals, dogs, children and strangers, the Jackapoo can become stubborn or even aggressive. Health Fortunately, most of the common health concerns of the Jackapoo are mild. Dry skin, allergies, and ear infections are common in this breed, but easily treatable. Concerns like deafness, patellar luxation, arthritis, cataracts, thyroid disease and others are also possible be less frequently seen. They have a life expectancy of years. Ask the breeder to show you health test certificates for both parents, and where possible meet them both too. The puppies should be lively and alert, and the parents should be friendly and have an obvious strong bond with the breeder. Jackapoos are exceptionally intelligent dogs that are also sociable, alert, playful, highly energetic, and easy to train. Are you looking for more information about the designer dog breed Jackapoo because you want to add one to your family? Perhaps you already own this cuddly Jack Russell Poodle mix and want to know a bit more about it. In any case, read on; this guide has all the information you need about this cute small dog. What is a Jack-a-Poo? The resulting mixed dog breed is not recognized by the AKC or any other Canine Club and its exact origins are also unclear. Hopefully someday, with their efforts, owners can enjoy the same registration privileges that purebred dogs enjoy. The Jackapoo might have been created with a view of having a sturdy and intelligent dog with a less tenacious personality and a non-shedding coat. Poodle-mixes like the Labradoodle and Golden Doodle were among the first poodle mixed breed or hybrid or designer dog breeds to be created. The Labradoodle Poodle-Labrador Retriever mix was estimated to have been created in the s and was found to have high trainability combined with a non-shedding coat. These features made other doodle breeds Poodle mixed popular with people allergic to dog dander. The Jackapoo also came into existence due to the same reasons: potential pet parents were looking to adopt or buy smaller dogs that could be easily trained and were suitable for people with pet allergies. The Jackapoo fit the bill perfectly. A bit about the Jack Russell Terrier breed Jack Russell Terriers were bred to be working dogs and to hunt pesky vermin on farms and in houses. They even flushed out badgers, foxes, and groundhogs from their hiding holes and dens for hunters. The Jack Russell Terrier is an ancient breed and is estimated to have existed for more than years. They are predominantly white with tan, brown, or black patches. A bit about the Poodle breed Poodles might have been first bred in Germany since the word Poodle comes from the German word Pudel puddle. However, Poodles also have Spaniel ancestry as well as French water dog Barbet blood in them. Today, the Poodle breed is considered one of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world. Canine genetics is quite a complex science, so no one can predict for sure how big an F1- first generation Jackapoo will get. As such, Jack-a-poo is a small and compact-sized dog breed since the parent breeds Jack Russell Terrier and Miniature or Toy Poodle are both quite small. How big will a Jackapoo puppy get? A full-grown Jackadoodle could reach a height of 25 to 38 cm 9. Most reach maturity between 8 to .Jackapoo coat type Jackapoos could have a scruffy, wavy, or curly coat. The coat can come in various combinations like white, tan, black, silver, and blue, all mixed together or in patches. Their Poodle parent could also give them coat colours like red, brown, silver, and apricot. Are Jackadoodles hypoallergenic? How much grooming does a Jackapoo need? Jackapoos have fairly low-shedding coats since both parent breeds are also low-shedding. You will still need to brush your Jackadoodle at least times a week. Jackadoodles that inherit the Poodle-like coat might also need professional grooming every few months. Does a Jackapoo shed? Jackapoos are mostly low-to-no shedding dogs. If your pet inherits the curly and tight coat like its Poodle parent, then it might not shed at all. However, if it inherits the Jack Russell Terrier type coat, then it might shed moderately seasonally. If allergies are an issue you might find Jackapoos from a wire-haired JRT and a poodle will shed less than those from smooth-coated Jack Russell lineage. Similarly, F1b generation Jackadoodles will often shed less than their first-generation counterparts. Jackadoodles make excellent pets as they are super cute, highly energetic, and also very intelligent. They make great family dogs for all ages but they also need to be kept active. You will need to give your Jackadoodle a job to do because, without activity, it could get quite destructive. Jackapoos might be small dogs but they have high exercise needs. These high-energy dogs also need consistent positive training and handling from the very beginning. Without training and exercise, they can get mouthy and could misbehave. Although Jackapoos do well with older children, they should not be around very young kids or infants. After all; they have high prey drives and are great opportunists. Small children carrying food could be prime targets for these dogs. Jackadoodles can make good pets for elderly people or people with limited mobility. However, there should be someone around to take them for daily walks and also for training the dog. Jack-a-poos do well on farms and ranches but if you live in an urban or suburban dwelling, then a fenced yard is a must for keeping your Jackapoo safe. Remember: Jackadoodles are diggers and could easily dig under a fence, so make sure you secure the bottom part of the fence as well. Jackapoos will be happy in apartments too, but they do need some extra space to run and play. They are also excellent at jumping and can easily jump over 4 feet 1. This makes them excellent for agility and tracking activities. Do Jackapoos bark a lot? Jackapoos bark a lot and they can be quite loud! Sometimes, they might bark even while they are playing. Mostly, they bark if someone is simply passing by. This quality makes them good watchdogs but can be annoying to the neighbours. So, you might want to train your dog to only bark on cue. Are Jack-a-Poos intelligent dogs? Jackapoos are very intelligent dogs given the intelligence of both parent breeds. They are also very determined and stubborn and using these traits, a Jackapoo will surely get what it wants. That is why consistent, positive reinforcement-based training is very important from the very beginning. Otherwise, your little dog might develop some frustrating behaviours. How Much Does a Jackapoo Cost? Avoid buying from puppy mills and backyard breeders since the pups born under these circumstances are more likely to have health and temperament issues. What is the Best Food for a Jackapoo? A correct and balanced diet for your Jack Russell Poodle mix can result in an active and healthy pet with a shiny coat. It is also important to keep your Jackadoodle active. Most small dog breeds like Jackapoos only need around calories per day. Your dog food label will tell you exactly how many calories there are in each cup of food, so you can feed your pet accordingly. Finding the best dog food for your Jackapoo can take some trial and error. You can always get recommendations from breeders and vets but if the food is not agreeing with your small dog or if it refuses to eat it, then do consult a vet nutritionist and consider a change. Here are some general tips about feeding a Jackapoo: Feed your puppy the same food it was eating at the breeder. This is important to avoid gastric upsets. Puppies run, play, and burn a lot of energy so they need at least 4 meals a day. For adult Jackapoos, 2 meals a day are usually adequate. Establish a strict feeding and potty schedule and follow it. Avoid foods containing GMO ingredients, preservatives, meat byproducts, fillers, and artificial colours and flavours. Some Jackadoodles are very sensitive to wheat, corn, soy, and dairy. Many are sensitive to certain proteins chicken, fish, peas, and pork. In such a case, you might want to feed special diets or even vet-prescribed diets. A raw dog food diet of red meat or lamb with vegetables and meaty bones is usually a good choice for most Jackapoos. Health and Lifespan of Jackapoos Most Jackapoos are healthy and hardy. The Jack Russell Terrier breed does not have too many health issues or any known common health concerns unless they are poorly bred. The Poodle breed, however, is known for certain genetic issues. Therefore, some common health concerns are known to crop up in Jackapoos from time to time. These are: Deafness Arthritis — generally seen in senior dogs Cataracts — also age-related.
Please visit Prevent the Spread of Dog Flu to learn about how to protect your pets and to get the latest information about dog flu outbreaks. These dogs are so popular for some great reasons: Bouncy, cheerful, loyal, and enthusiastic Good with kids and other pets Above-average intelligence and trainability when positive reinforcement training methods are used Loves to play games, especially fetch People-oriented and eager to please Even temper and gentle disposition However, no dog is perfect! Labs originated in Newfoundland in the s and were bred from St. They were valued by fisherman for their trainability, trustworthiness, and work ethic. Fulfilling their retriever name, they would dive into icy cold waters to help pull in fishing nets and occasionally catch stray fish that had escaped. Today the Labrador comes in two varieties: the American tall and lanky or English short and stocky. Both American and English ancestries present all three color versions—black, blonde, and brown. When given plenty of vigorous exercise and attention, these sweethearts are gentle and well-behaved in the home. All you need is a ball to throw and your Lab will love you for life! The Labrador Retriever is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. Your Labrador Retriever's Health We know that because you care so much about your dog , you want to take good care of her. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Labrador. By knowing about health concerns specific to Labrador Retrievers, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in Labrador Retrievers to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Labrador Retrievers. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Lab looking and feeling her best. Unfortunately, your Lab is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. In fact, your Lab's life span may even be cut short by one to three years! Infections Labrador Retrievers are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination , which we will recommend based on her age, the diseases we see in our area, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in Labrador Retrievers. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Parasites All kinds of worms and bugs can invade your Lab's body, inside and out. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms , and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Labrador is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. Genetic Predispositions for Labrador Retrievers Bloat Gastric dilatation volvulus, also known as GDV or bloat, usually occurs in dogs with deep, narrow chests. This means your Labrador is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off the blood supply to the stomach and sometimes to the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as half an hour. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes up , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Some of the blood supply that should go to the liver goes around it instead, depriving the liver of the blood flow it needs to grow and function properly. If your friend has PSS, his liver cannot remove toxins from his bloodstream effectively. Surgery may be needed, but in some cases, we can treat with a special diet and medication. Your Labrador Retriever is prone to a chronic liver disease called hepatitis that may develop around middle age. Hepatitis is usually diagnosed through blood testing or liver biopsy, and can be treated with medication and special diets. Signs of liver disease do not usually occur until most of the liver is already damaged or destroyed, so early detection and intervention through routine blood screening is essential for early treatment. Bleeding Disorders Your Labrador Retriever is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This is an important test as we may not otherwise know whether your pet has hemophilia until severe bleeding occurs during surgery or after a serious injury. If the immune system destroys red blood cells, your dog quickly becomes anemic, weak, and lethargic. His gums will look whitish or yellow instead of a normal bright pink color. Sometimes an emergency transfusion of red blood cells or platelets is needed. Bone and Joint Problems A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in Labrador Retrievers. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. With diligent observation at home and knowledge about the diseases that may affect your friend's bones, joints, or muscles, you will be able to take great care of him throughout his life. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. Stiffness in your Labrador's elbows or hips may become a problem for him, especially as he matures. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is also sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. And keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! The cranial cruciate ligament is one of four tough bands of tissue that hold each knee together. A torn cranial cruciate ligament is a common injury in active dogs, including your Lab. Usually, surgical correction can stabilize the knee and help prevent crippling arthritis. Physical therapy and multimodal pain management are necessary for the best outcomes. Keeping him at the right weight, feeding a high-quality diet, and avoiding too much twisting of the knees like when playing Frisbee are key in avoiding these painful injuries. When Labrador puppies are allowed to grow too quickly, the cartilage in their joints may not attach to the bones properly. This problem is known as osteochondritis dissecans, or OCD. If this occurs, surgery may be required to fix the problem. Our recommended growth rate for Labrador Retriever puppies is no more than four pounds per week. Feed a large-breed puppy diet rather than an adult or regular puppy diet. Neurological Disease A genetically linked neurological condition, known as wobbler disease or wobbler syndrome, causes a wobbly, drunken gait in affected pets. Wobbler disease is the result of a narrowing of the vertebrae in the neck that pinches the spinal cord and associated nerves. When pinched, the nerves do not send signals to the brain as they should causing the pet to be unable to feel his feet. The first signs you will often notice with wobbler disease are unstable hind legs, stumbling, and sometimes falling. Treatment options include medications, neck braces, rehabilitation exercise programs, and surgery. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Any breed can be affected, but Labs have an above average incidence. Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars in their bodies and require daily insulin injections. Diabetes is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Well-regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. Allergies In humans, allergies to pollen, mold, or dust make people sneeze. In dogs, rather than sneezing, allergies make their skin itchy. The feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most commonly affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs of allergies. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for these conditions. Bleeding Tumor Hemangiosarcoma is a type of bleeding tumor that affects Labrador Retrievers at greater than average incidence. These tumors commonly form in the spleen, but can form in other organs as well. Unbeknownst to a pet owner, the tumor breaks open and internal bleeding occurs. Some tumors can be volleyball-sized or larger before signs of sickness show. We often find clues that one of these tumors is present during senior wellness testing, so have his blood tested and an ultrasound performed at least yearly. Lymphoma Lymphoma or lymphosarcoma is a type of cancer that afflicts Labrador Retrievers more than other breeds. This disease makes the body form abnormal lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. Because white blood cells can be found throughout the body, this cancer can show up almost anywhere. Lymphoma is a very treatable form of cancer with an excellent success rate in dogs receiving chemotherapy. Luckily, lymphoma is one of the few types of cancer that can often be found with a blood test, so we may recommend a complete blood count twice yearly. Eye Problems Not many things have as dramatic an impact on your dog's quality of life as the proper functioning of his eyes. Unfortunately, Labrador Retrievers can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs of concern. Hyperadrenocorticism Cushing's Cushing's Disease is a malfunction of the adrenal glands that causes them to produce too much steroid hormone. This is a common problem in dogs, and your Lab is more likely than other dogs to be affected. The condition usually develops slowly, and the early signs are easily missed. Symptoms include drinking and urinating more than normal, increased appetite, and reduced activity level followed later by a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss. Treatment usually includes oral medications and requires close coordination with us to ensure correct dosing. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Reactive seizures are caused by the brain's reaction to a metabolic problem like low blood sugar, organ failure, or a toxin. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, and Labrador Retrievers are commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, episodes will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and efficacy. If your dog has a seizure, carefully prevent him from injuring himself, but don't try to control his mouth or tongue. It won't help him, and he may bite you accidentally! Note the length of the seizure, and call us at or call an emergency hospital. Heart Disease Some breeds like your Labrador can be born with a variety of heart defects. Defects can also cause problems with heart valve function or the electrical signals that control the heartbeat. Special testing will be recommended if we hear a heart murmur or if you notice any unusual symptoms such as tiring easily, coughing, a swollen belly, or fainting. Exercise Induced Collapse Exercise induced collapse, or EIC, is just what it sounds like — a young, apparently healthy Labrador collapses to the ground suddenly while exercising. After a few minutes, the weakness passes and he is able to get up again. Dogs affected with EIC cannot run or exert themselves for long periods of time, especially not in hot weather, so a day of hunting or strenuous hiking is not a good idea for these pets. Heat stroke can also occur in conjunction with EIC. Genetic testing can be done to diagnose this disease and to screen dogs before breeding. Muscle Disease Labrador Retrievers may develop a disease of the muscles called myopathy between three and seven months of age. Physical signs of myopathy include bunny hopping, loss of muscle tone in the limbs, a stiff gait, and carrying the head low. Typically, affected pets are treated through reduced stress and occasionally with medication as well. Most dogs with myopathy are stabilized by twelve months of age and are able to have a normal life span. While they are suitable as house companions, strenuous exercise is not recommended, so no hunting or working! Taking Care of Your Labrador Retriever at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your Lab live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. Brush her coat as needed, at least weekly. Labrador Retrievers generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. She's a smart dog with lots of energy, so keep her mind and body active, or she'll get bored. That's when the naughty stuff starts. Always walk your Lab on a leash as she has a tendency to run off after interesting smells and people. She has a passion for water, and swimming is a perfect form of exercise for this water retriever. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Labrador Retriever needs help. Meat by-products Cheap fillers The elimination diet consists of a trial period in which you expose your pet to foods one at a time to rule out possible allergens. In fact, it will probably be easier if you prepare fresh ingredients from scratch so no artificial preservatives are introduced. A Sample Elimination Diet Using Hypoallergenic Ingredients Note: Just because a source of food is considered hypoallergenic does not rule out the possibility that it will cause an allergy in your dog. Dogs all have their unique immune systems, and hypoallergenic ingredients are just a starting point. Week One: Cooked ground bison mixed with mashed sweet potatoes. Week Two: If itching persists, switch out the bison for cooked ground turkey. Week Three: If itching persists, switch out the turkey for cooked white fish. You can also swap out the sweet potatoes for millet. At this point, you can also add in some cooked greens like kale, broccoli, or spinach. Be sure to note any sensitivities to new foods as you introduce them. High-quality hypoallergenic foods will also have fewer ingredients, making it easier to find potential allergens. When you choose a commercial dog food, be sure to feed your dog ONLY that food for a full week. When Stetson had skin allergies our vet recommended testing different commercial foods and it seemed that we had success switching him to Wellness Core Grain Free Dog Food. However, looking back I think it was an environmental switch that helped his allergies we moved to a new home. Try antihistamines — Antihistamines, like Benadryl, can alleviate allergic reactions in some situations. If you decide to try Benadryl, be aware that there are some mild side effects. Always follow the recommendation of your veterinarian. We covered the pros and cons of giving your dog Benadryl in this article. Always provide fresh drinking water. It must be used in conjunction with intradermal skin testing. Once the allergens have been confirmed, your veterinary dermatologist can desensitize your dog to the allergen by injecting an altered, weekend version into the skin. Shots are usually administered weekly over the course of several months. Cyclosporine — This medication can be used successfully for seasonal allergies or other types of atopy. Steroids — Steroids will help relieve extreme itching and inflammation, but they do have short and long-term side effects. They should be used sparingly and reserved for very serious conditions. Oclacitinib — This is a relatively new treatment that shows promise for treating allergic reactions to fleas, food, and environmental allergies. Cytokines help cells communicate with each other and promote itching and inflammation in dogs who have allergies. Read more about Oclacitinib on Pet MD. Vitamin E — If your dog has small problem spots, you can open up a vitamin E capsule and massage it into the skin. This will moisturize, alleviate some of the itching, and help prevent infection. Aloe Vera — This plant is commonly used to soothe sunburn in humans, but it is just as useful when treating skin conditions in dogs. If you buy commercial aloe vera, be sure that aloe vera is the first ingredient, and stay away from harsh chemicals. Calendula Tea Compresses — Calendula flowers have been used to treat skin conditions for centuries. Steep the dried flowers in hot water to make a strong tea. Apply the cooled tea directly to problem areas using a washcloth. You can also by calendula salves and sprays commercially. Epsom Salt Soak — This is helpful for paws that are red and raw. Fill a tub with warm water and a few tablespoons of Epsom salt. Have your dog stand in the water for soothing relief. Final Thoughts on Dealing with Dog Skin Allergies Diagnosing and treating dog skin allergies is a complex and difficult task, but with patience and perseverance, it will be a life changer for your dog. Your dog will thank you. Do you have an itchy scratchy dog? Have you done anything that helps? Tells us about your dog in the comment section below. Disclaimer All content on this site is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative to seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. References 1. Clinical and pathological effects Canine atopic dermatitis is a genetically-predisposed inflammatory and pruritic itchy allergic skin disease with characteristic clinical features. Allergic diseases result from an exaggerated immune system response that causes pathological damage. Some of the immune cells which help defend the body produce proteins called antibodies when stimulated to do so. Antibodies help the immune cells get rid of the pathogens invading the body. Anything that stimulates the immune system is called an antigen. Antigens are normally parts of the invading pathogen, but sometimes otherwise harmless substances stimulate an immune response in individuals who are prone to allergies and exaggerated immune responses. Any substance that can stimulate an allergic immune response is called an allergen. Atopy is associated with the immune system over-producing a type of antibodies called IgE. The clinical features of atopy are variable but the permanent cardinal feature, always present, is itchiness, which varies in degree from mild to severe. A dog may be itchy over its whole skin but more usually the itchiness is localised. The commonest areas to be affected are the ears, around the eyes, the muzzle, the underside of the neck and abdomen, the inside of the legs, the feet and under the tail Nuttall et al .In the early stages of the disease there may just be itchiness, however, redness of the skin will soon be seen. This may be general redness or red spots papules. Further problems arise either from long-term itchiness and the self harm that is caused from scratching, rubbing and chewing of the itchy area or from the presence of skin infections with bacteria both abnormally high numbers of normal skin bacteria and infections from bacteria not usually present and with skin yeasts normally present in low numbers. Atopy itself and the secondary skin changes that occur both make these infections more likely. Infected skin tends to itch and the consequential scratching, rubbing and chewing causes further, secondary skin damage and a vicious circle of itching and scratching and worsening skin damage develops. For many atopic dogs this means constant itchiness as it is often impossible to avoid constant exposure to its problematic allergen - house dust mite. Secondary skin changes often seen in atopic dogs include: lichenification thickening of the skin , a coat that is greasy and scaly dandruff and loss of fur alopecia. Pustules and crusts are seen when there is bacterial infection and, when this is deeper in the skin, nodules with pus draining from sinuses may be seen. Otitis externa inflammation of the ear canal is often seen in atopic dogs and sometimes is the main clinical problem. This follows the same pattern as atopic disease elsewhere — the ear canal is lined with skin. Initially there may just be redness but constant irritation, excess secretions and thickening of the skin with secondary bacterial and yeast infections lead to a vicious cycle until the ear canal becomes irreversibly damaged. The clinical signs include scratching at the ears, head shaking, rubbing the ears on the ground, a smelly discharge from the ears. Severe infections can lead to septicaemia bacterial infection in the bloodstream. There are currently two main theories for the pathogenesis of atopy and there is good evidence that both are important. Atopic individuals have an abnormal immune response. Allergens are detected in the skin by the immune system. In atopic individuals there is an imbalance of two types of immune cell ie more T helper 2 lymphocytes and fewer T helper 1 lymphocytes. This imbalance leads to other changes in the immune system, which make it respond excessively to small amounts of allergen in the future, easily generating skin inflammation. Excessive amounts of an antibody type IgE are present in the body. A second fundamental abnormality seen in atopic individuals is that they have a skin barrier defect. Their skin suffers from increased water loss and foreign substances such as allergens, bacteria and yeast can penetrate more easily than normal. This allows more contact of the allergens with the immune system see above. Allergens from the house dust mite Dermatophagoides farina are the most important. Allergies to other mites such as Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Euroglyphus maynei, Acarus siro and Tyrophagus putrescentiae are either less common or may be largely due to cross reaction with D. Cross-reactions occur when a test detects one substance rather than another. Sensitivity to pollens can certainly be important but are usually seasonal in the UK. Many types of tree pollens are involved in canine atopy, and grass pollens are commonly involved. There are also many weeds implicated in canine atopy eg ragweed, plantain and mugwort. The importance of mould allergens in canine atopy is uncertain. Other allergens which have been considered of importance in the past, but which are no longer, include cockroach and other insects, house dust, fabrics such as cotton, wool and linen. An important concept in the pathogenesis of canine atopic dermatitis is that of the pruritic threshold. An individual may not be itchy just because it is atopic eg if it is mildly atopic. It may need another factor to combine with the atopy to tip it over the threshold of having clinical signs. So, various factors that can cause itchy skin may combine. In some dogs, just having one or two of these factors may not cause a problem but if a third or fourth occurs then disease will follow. An inherited atopic state is an important predisposing factor in many animals and a leading cause of welfare problems in dogs. They may also include environmental factors such as flea infestation or a dry climate. One important environmental influence may be the degree of early exposure to allergens for genetically predisposed individuals. There is evidence that prolonged and more intensive exposure to allergens in early life makes atopic dermatitis more likely and also that it is more likely to be severe. This is the case both for house dust mite allergens de Weck , de Weck et al and for pollens; pollen allergies may be more common in puppies born during the pollen season Halliwell .Return to top 2. The primary itch due to atopy itself varies from mild to severe between individuals. It may also vary according to the season and environment that the dog is experiencing ie whether it is housed indoors or outside and where it is exercising, for example a dog allergic mostly to grasses may be better at the seaside than walking through meadows. Skin infections worsen the condition and their severity can vary. Atopy can cause great suffering in moderately-severely affected dogs due to the constant skin itching and irritation and the secondary damage that is done by the dog to its skin creating sore inflamed areas that are uncomfortable and possibly painful. Atopy can be difficult to control medically and suffering can be difficult to avoid during the time when a diagnosis of atopic dermatitis is being confirmed. This can be a prolonged and involved procedure see below. Treatment of atopic dermatitis usually involves drugs. The most effective treatments are based on corticosteroids or ciclosporin, both of which can have significant side effects with their own welfare issues. Some atopic dogs become seriously ill due to the side effects of treatment. Frequent shampooing is often required which may be unpleasant for some dogs. Dogs are euthanized because of atopic dermatitis. This is often because diagnosis and treatment are time-consuming and expensive for owners and reasonable long-term control is often the best that can be achieved rather than there being any hope of cure. Return to top 3. Duration of welfare impact Signs of atopy can be seen in some individuals from the age of months. More usually signs start between the ages of months. It is unusual for signs to start after three years. Some dogs have seasonal problems when its pollen allergens that they are allergic to but often dogs that had seasonal problems when younger will develop problems lasting all year round when they are older. Without treatment affected dogs will have the problem for life although the severity will usually wax and wane according to the amount of allergens they are exposed to at any given time, secondary infections, any exacerbating factors such as catching fleas and the weather, and the success of treatments. Treatment of atopic dermatitis is involved and lifelong. Drugs are used in most dogs and these are often required constantly. Return to top 4. A study by Shaw et al investigated the pedigrees of dogs used as guide dogs for the blind that had been diagnosed with clinically significant atopic dermatitis. From data on estimates of total dog population in the UK and on the percentage of all micro-chip registered dogs that are Labrador retrievers Lucy Asher, , personal communication , we estimate that the UK population size of this breed may be around 1 million. Return to top 5. Diagnosis The diagnosis of atopic dermatitis is complicated. There is no characteristic clinical sign or laboratory test result that enables the diagnosis to be made. Over the years there have been various attempts to create formal schemes to aid this process Willemse , Prelaud et al .The currently favoured scheme was created and tested by Favrot et al and its use clarified by Olivry .The Favrot diagnostic criteria for canine atopic dermatitis - used alongside the elimination of other possible causes of the signs see below. This means that if dogs were diagnosed, using this scheme alone, then 21 of this would have the wrong diagnosis — they actually have another cause of their disease, not atopy. Furthermore, there would have been another 15 dogs that actually do have atopy but had been excluded because the five criteria needed have not been found. For these reasons the scheme can not be used alone. The difficulties arise because all the clinical signs of atopic dermatitis are also seen in other common skin diseases. In order to make any of these schemes more reliable they have to be combined with tests that seek to excluded these other conditions. Mange mite infestations , and bacterial and yeast infections are ruled out by examinations of skin samples and trial treatments. Contact irritation and allergy is ruled out by avoidance of potential causes. Fleas are ruled out by trial treatment. Some rarer skin diseases may need to be ruled out by skin biopsy. Tests can be performed to identify which allergens are involved for a particular atopic dog. Unfortunately, these tests are not reliable in determining whether a dog is atopic or not and results of these tests are not used in making the diagnosis Favrot et al .Allergy testing can be performed using blood tests or intra-dermal into the skin injections. Return to top 6. The heritability of atopy has been studied by Shaw et al .When considering guide dogs as a whole, a heritability of 0. The majority of these dogs were Labrador retrievers but Golden retrievers and Labrador-Golden retriever crosses were also represented. Given that all these puppies were raised in similar conditions it is reasonable to say that about half of the factors that caused them to have clinical atopic dermatitis were genetic and half were environmental. Canine atopic dermatitis is likely to be one manifestation of canine atopy. There is evidence for an important dominant gene; at least in one line of Beagles de Weck , de Weck et al .A start has been made to investigate specific genes involved in several breeds, including the Labrador retriever but, as yet, there are few publications available Wood et al .Return to top 7. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? This has not been scientifically tested. There are no genetic tests to guide us. In common with other polygenetic disorders with important environmental influences, it may be considered that any affected individual or an individual with an affected close relative parent or sibling should not be considered for breeding. However, this advice has not been tested and other considerations such as narrowing the gene pool and concurrent genetic diseases, such as hip dysplasia must also be considered. Return to top 8. Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem It may be considered that individuals with atopic dermatitis should not be used for breeding. This would include any affected individual, even if only mildly affected. This is because environmental factors are certainly important in whether an atopic individual has clinical signs and how bad they are. Not breeding from animals with a close relative that has suffered from any degree of atopic dermatitis would also be recommended, based on general information given for reducing disease resulting from polygenetic conditions Bell .But considerations should be given to not overbreed from individuals that are healthy, as far as atopy goes, which could have other problems as this could have unintended and undesirable genetic consequences Oberbauer .In breeds, such as the Labrador retriever, it may be necessary to widen the gene pool by introducing genes from other breeds. Return to top 9. The five most common types of allergies are food allergies, flea allergies, contact allergies, inhalant allergies, and bacterial allergies. Labrador Food Allergies Food allergies in Labrador Retrievers are caused by allergic reactions to common ingredients in dog food such as beef, corn, soy, fish, wheat, chicken, and chicken eggs. Common symptoms include: itchy skin often around the muzzle or face hair loss frequent bowel movements and skin infections. Antihistamines and occasionally antibiotics can be used to help dogs with extreme food allergies. But if your Lab has a food allergy, the symptoms will return when the treatment is stopped. Elimination diets with limited ingredients work well for most dogs with food allergies. Most common dog food brands on the market offer hypoallergenic formulas. These recipes are free of some of the most common allergens we talked about earlier: corn, soy, beef, chicken, chicken eggs, fish, and wheat. You can also consider feeding a raw diet consisting of unprocessed meats and veggies. FAD occurs when a flea bites an animal, injecting its saliva into the skin. Your dog will most likely be susceptible to FAD during the summer months. Because fleas thrive best in warm temperatures with humidity. Early warning signs of FAD include itchy, irritated skin. This in turn causes red, inflamed patches of skin called hot spots. Flea bites occur most often on the back and at the base of the tail. In severe cases, you might notice hair loss, oozing, or dark, crusty skin. The easiest way to prevent flea allergies in Labrador Retrievers is to groom your dog regularly , and apply a flea preventative such as Frontline during flea season. If your Lab does develop an allergic reaction to a flea bite, there are several methods of killing fleas instantly. Make sure to remove all traces of fleas both from him and from your home. Sometimes your Lab can develop a yeast infection as a result of a flea bite. In which case you might notice an unpleasant odor. Vets will often prescribe antibiotics and a short course of prednisone to relieve his itchy skin. Taking preventative measures, however, and regularly observing your dog for early warning signs during flea season, can help to mitigate the problem. Canine Contact Allergies Contact allergies occur when your Lab develops an allergic reaction to noxious or irritating substances in the environment. These can include dyes, carpet deodorizers, or antibiotics applied to the skin. Rubber, wool, certain metals like nickel , poison ivy sap, and salt on the road can also cause allergic reactions. The allergic reaction usually develops on areas of the skin with little or no hair. Such as the backs of the paws, the muzzle, and the lower abdomen. These areas of the skin are most likely to come into direct contact with the irritant. In order to treat a contact allergy, your vet needs to use patch or exclusion tests to determine what allergen your Lab is reacting to. Patch tests involve a small amount of the allergen being rubbed on the skin. Inhalant Allergies in Labradors Inhalant allergies also called atopic allergies or atopy are the second most common allergy in Labs after FAD. They are caused by an allergic reaction to airborne or inhaled allergens like mold, dust, or pollen. Simply put, think of atopy as the canine equivalent of hay fever in people. Like FAD, inhalant allergies usually affect dogs during the spring and summer months. Atopic Labradors will develop very itchy skin and will usually bite and scratch themselves, often on the legs, face, ears, groin, and armpit areas. Red, irritated skin and hair loss are the most common warning signs as well as yeast infections in the skin and ears. Your vet will likely perform one of two allergy tests on your dog to determine what is causing the allergic reaction. An intra-dermal or skin allergy test involves injecting a small amount of an allergen into his skin and watching for a reaction. The second test, the IgE allergy test, involves taking a blood sample from your Lab to test for IgE antibodies against specific airborne allergens. If a high number of IgE antibodies exist, this is usually a sign of an inhalant allergy. There are several ways to treat inhalant allergies. Allergy shots involve a serum containing the allergen to which your dog reacts. Over time, the injections can desensitize them to the allergen, reducing the symptoms. Your vet might also prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs such as corticosteroids or antihistamines to relieve symptoms like itching and skin irritation. Since allergies often cause skin irritation and hair loss, your Lab can often develop lesions or inflamed pustules. For these, your vet will likely proscribe topical medications like ointments and sprays as well as a round of antibiotics. The vet will look for evidence that the infection is symptomatic of a more serious medical condition. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Assist your vet in making a swift diagnosis by recording the accompanying symptoms and environmental factors. A deficient thyroid gland that produces insufficient amounts of hormones will cause hypothyroidism. This condition causes the skin to become inflamed and puffy with dark pigmentation. It also results in poor hair regrowth. Other symptoms include weight gain, lethargy and a distinctively puffy facial appearance. Adult labrador retrievers are among the most affected breeds. Your vet may treat this condition with hormone regulating drugs. Light Responsive Alopecia A lack of sunlight can cause some Labs to suffer from localized or general hair loss. It is most common in dogs that live in regions with long winters. Your vet will take into account the breed of your dog, the region in which you live and the pattern of the hair loss to make a diagnosis. If unsure, the vet may also take a skin sample for further analysis to rule out other causes, such as hypothyroidism. Seborrhea Seborrhea is an incurable, but treatable disease caused by overproduction of sebum, resulting in a range of skin problems, including oiliness, flakiness and dryness. Affected areas include the ears, neck, knees, elbows and hocks. There are no non-skin related symptoms that accompany this disease. Topical treatment such as medicated shampoo and antibiotics are the most effective treatments. Atopic Dermatitis Atopic dermatitis in an inherited predisposition that causes the immune system to overreact to environmental allergens such as pollen and dust. It causes dryness and flakiness and affects mostly Labrador retrievers aged between 1 and 3 years of age. Accompanying symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing and runny eyes. Your vet will take into consideration the age of your dog and the season while making a diagnosis. He will advise you to rid the home of all irritants by washing bedding and vacuuming regularly. It is most typically the result of an underlying condition, such as dermatitis, seborrhea or any issue that causes itching, such as flea bites, hot spots or compulsive scratching. Your vet will typically treat this condition with antibiotics, although your Lab may require sedation to have the crusty lesions removed, due to the discomfort they cause. More Articles.
I grew up with boxers as my grandmother was an avid lover of the breed and had a lucrative breeding and showing program. While she is no longer with us, I continue her legacy and continue to use her kennel name MerBar Boxers. Each one of my puppies is raised in my home with my children and other pets. I make sure each puppy is loved and has great social skills. I like to give each baby an abundance of attention! All of my dogs are health tested to ensure you get a puppy that will be with you for years to come. I am happy to explain our health tests, what they mean, and why they are important. I will make myself available for any questions or concerns. If you are considering a breeding program I will mentor you on all the appropriate health testing, as well as making sure I fit you with the right puppy. If I do not have what you're looking for I am happy to refer you to my network of breeder friends to ensure you get the right puppy. I know that sometimes situations arise that are out of your control. Rest assured that you have options and I will work with you to resolve any issues. Address: Montgomery, Houston, Texas 4. DS Boxers, Texas. According to the owner, everything started about 20 years ago when she and her son got their first Boxer pet. She has been in love with this dog breed ever since, and she claims that she has the same amount of love for these doggies even today! Although this is more of a hobby breeder, the kennel provides the future pet owner with all documentation and health certificates. However, the owner claims that most doggies are already spoiled because of all the love and cuddling they receive. When it comes to the price, most pups cost differently according to the bloodline, coat color, and registration. The cost of transportation will be added to the overall price you pay for your future pet. If you possess a female Boxer and would like her to have her own puppies, you can use the stud services at this kennel. All you have to do is contact them and make an agreement. Breeder details: Telephone number: Address: Kempner, Texas 5. Black Champion Boxers. With more than 30 years of experience in Boxer breeding, the owners of this kennel, Ron and Debbie, are still loving every aspect of their jobs. They pass their love for Boxers onto their grandchildren as well! After spending time in Arizona, the couple decided to come to Texas and continue their family business, which has been going strong for the last 19 years in Decatur. A acre field is the perfect place to breed these wonderful animals. All puppies from this kennel have been tested for various diseases and conditions, had their dew claws done, and are vaccinated. However, like most Boxers, they do have high energy levels, which is why these dogs are more suitable for homes with bigger back yards. Breeder details:. For the complete list please see our Breeder Listings page. The price of a Boxer puppy varies depending on the breeder and where you are located. Boxer puppies usually go fast because this is such a popular breed of dog, so make sure you act quickly once you find one that interests you. The price of Boxer puppies in Texas might vary because of where you live and the reputation of the breeder. There are certain things you should consider when looking for a breeder like their location, reputation, and costs. The best way to research your breeder is by asking around for recommendations from other pet owners in the area. Word of mouth is often the most effective way to find a good breeder. Make sure you ask about costs and any guarantees or warranties that they offer. Visit Your Texas Boxer Breeder in Person Whether you physically searched for a Boxer puppy in Texas or found a breeder online, once you find one that interests you, the most important thing to do is visit them in person. It will also let you see their facilities first hand which can give you a better idea of what your puppy will be like. If possible, ask if they can let your future pup run around with other young boxers while you wait. This dog-to-dog interaction will help socialize him and make sure he grows up healthy and happy. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your Boxer Breeder in Texas If you feel comfortable with your boxer breeder in Texas, ask to see references from other people who have purchased their puppies. If they are reluctant to give you any names or contact details of other customers, this might be a sign that there is something fishy going on. If previous customers had any issues with the company or their puppies, you should probably find another breeder. These people could also give you lots of helpful advice about your specific dog and what kind of personality he might have based on his parents and genetics. Meeting past customers will also give you the chance to ask them questions about their experience with your breeder. If they had any problems, this is your chance to find out all about it. Remember, even one bad review should be enough for you to walk away from a breeder. Even if your Texas Boxer Breeder has nothing to hide, they should still have a good veterinarian that they use regularly. The best way for you to find out is to ask them what type of veterinary care their dogs receive and who your puppy will be seeing. The general rule of thumb is that the longer the warranty period, the better the policy will be for you and your pet. The minimum amount of time usually given by breeders is 1 year but reputable breeders like those listed here at PuppySpot offer 2 to 3 years. Some lifetime warranties against certain genetic diseases. First of all, if the prices seem too good to be true…they probably are. Often times they just want your cash without caring about whether or not their breeding practices result in healthy, happy pets which could lead to expensive health problems down the road. Unethical breeders will also try to make you feel like they are doing you a favor by selling you their puppies, but this is just another tactic used to put pressure on the consumer. Finally, if the breeder says that only cash is accepted as payment…move on. Any refusal of credit cards should be an immediate red flag. Most reputable breeders will be honest with you and tell you if there are any issues or history of disease in either the parents or other relatives. The truth is that no one is perfect and every dog has some sort of health concern or another. Reputable breeders will know about these issues before they sell their puppies to you which means they will provide documentation for proof. How to Prepare Your Home for Your Boxer Puppy Before you actually bring your new boxer home, the first thing that you should do is make sure to set up a safe and comfortable area for them. First of all, you will need to find a way to confine your boxer while you are away at work or school. The good news is that there are many different options available for everyone whether they live in an apartment or have acres of land. You also want to make sure that the bathroom has been properly puppy-proofed before your boxer comes home. This will typically involve covering up anything sharp, electrical or poisonous items that could pose a problem for your new pet. Finally, if you have any valuable items on hand such as a TV or laptop, make sure to put them out of reach. In addition, whenever you bring them back inside from playing around in the backyard make sure to immediately put them on a leash so that you can quickly grab them if they need to go to the bathroom. Once again, this will be a lot easier if you have a fenced-in area for outdoor playtime but it can still be accomplished using an electronic fence if necessary. Boxers are incredibly intelligent dogs which means that most of them pick up on things very quickly. In fact, many boxer puppies learn how to properly eliminate outside all on their own within just a few days of being home with you. If they have any accidents inside, never scold them because this will only lead to confusion and mistrust. Instead, always use positive reinforcement by either praising them when they do something good or by giving them a treat whenever they go potty out in the yard. Continue doing this until they understand that going outside is the only acceptable place to have a bowel movement. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Intelligent Pug Characteristics Pugs are extremely playful and love to interact with their owners. They also get along well with other animals, especially cats and other dogs. They're most known for: Friendly Easy going Health Issues Because these dogs have only been bred for a few years, there has been no study on whether there are any specific health issues being produced from these crosses. In order to get a better idea of which health problems a puppy might face, you must research the parent breeds involved, and take a look at health issues that are common to them. The average reported lifespan of these dogs is between 12 to 15 years. Boxers can be prone to cardiomyopathy , bloat, hip dysplasia , and hypothyroidism , among other possible health threats. Pugs can be prone to obesity, breathing problems , eye problems, and skin problems. Boston Terriers are prone to eye problems , heart problems, epilepsy, and skin problems. Fox Terriers can be prone to Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, patellar luxation, congenital hypothyroidism with goiter, and primary lens luxation, among other health issues. Rat Terriers can be prone to allergies, dental problems, and patellar luxation. Corgis are prone to eye problems, glaucoma , and progressive retinal atrophy. Beagles are prone to epilepsy , intervertebral disk disease, and tumbling puppy syndrome. English Bulldogs are prone to a long list of health concerns, including obesity, heat stroke, elongated soft palate , heart disease, and more. Keep in mind that a particular pup might never face one of these health issues, but the possibility could be there in the gene pool, so it's good to be aware. Are you InTheKnow? Sign up for our newsletter featuring all the latest stories and products we love. Invalid email I agree to receive email communications from LoveToKnow. The breeding procedures used to create this mix are extremely controversial. Many " miniature " dogs have been heavily inbred, so it's not uncommon for them to develop genetic disorders or become ill at a young age, even from a reputable breeder. The miniature Boxer is also a high-energy breed that requires a hands-on owner. They aren't meant for owners with sedentary lifestyles or those who reside in apartments. Because the miniature Boxer sheds, it may not be suitable for those looking for a hypoallergenic dog breed. If you understand the cons, there are many pros to this breed. Since they are smaller than Boxers, they are less expensive to feed and easier to care for. They require slightly less exercise than the original breed and can do well in smaller spaces, even if they aren't ideal apartment dogs. This mix is family-friendly, intelligent, eager to please, and easy to train. Also, they're relatively affordable to purchase as puppies. Finding Miniature Boxer Puppies for Sale When looking for a breeder of miniature Boxers, make sure you do your due diligence. Before you decide to do business, take the time to investigate the breeder fully to make sure you'll receive exactly what you're paying for. There are many unscrupulous breeders producing designer dogs, and you want to make sure the breeder can provide a health guarantee. The breeder should demonstrate that they are breeding to create dogs with excellent health and temperament. Because these dogs are not recognized by the top registry organizations and are not bred in large numbers, you may have to search for them online as well as locally through sites such as Craigslist to see if you can locate a breeder. Cost of a Miniature Boxer Puppy Because these dogs are not popular yet, they can be relatively expensive. Dog Clubs The miniature Boxer is not a recognized breed, but it may become one as some point in the future. If you'd like to register your pet with a dog club, both the American Canine Hybrid Club and the Certified Pet Registry take registrations for various crosses that produce this type of dog. Spend Time With These Dogs Before you bring one of these pups home, spend some time at several breeders' kennels so you can get to know the dogs in person. This is the surest way to find out if a Miniature Boxer will fit your lifestyle, as well as which particular cross you prefer. Getting a puppy is a commitment for the life of the dog, so be sure about your choice. 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 College Station Texas? 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. 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 College Station 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. It is 83 miles kilometers northwest of Houston and 87 miles km east-northeast of Austin. As of the census, College Station had a population of 93,,3 which had increased to an estimated population of , as of July .Wiki College Station 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. I'm 8 years old and, if I may say so myself, probably the best thing to ever happen to my mama. We've had some great adventures together from traveling with the circus to camping trips to play time with other friends and their humans to just snuggling on the couch! It's been a stupendous journey but it's time to discover more adventures and spread more joy! I am full of love and willing to share all of it with you! I am perfectly content to snooze the day away, keeping your bed warm, or sniffing out all the great smells on some walks. I love meeting new people and dogs, but sometimes I like to take my time because some people are weird and kids can be grabby, ya know?! I'm not a fan of cats, as they're just too rude for my taste. Same with aggressive dogs, I'm a lover, not a fighter! But I can get defensive if I feel like me or my human are threatened. I don't like storms, like at all, but who can blame me, right? They are scary loud with flashing lights and I just don't like it! If you have something to help me stay calm and a nice couch I can curl up on, I'll be fine until it passes, but I do get a lil spooked. Because there are lots of storms here in Florida, I have gotten pretty anxious and lashed out at my fur brother a couple of times recently. I never hurt him, and we made up and are still friends, but I sometimes get a little worked up, but I'm working on it! If you have a tennis ball you need chasing and chewing, I'm your girl! I'm also a belly rub enthusiast receiving, not giving, silly , and quite the accomplished tug of war winner. I know lots of verbal and visual commands and, if I can toot my own horn for a second, I'm pretty darn good on a leash. Car rides are my jam! Windows up or windows down, I don't get sick and I just like to quietly stare out the window. I like my crate and sometimes sleep the night away in there, it's like my own little blanket fort! Don't be jealous, I'll share it with you too! I can't wait to meet you! So take a sniff at my pictures because my mom says I'm a natural model, but I think I just have good genetics, like duh, just look at me! My mama said we're willing to go on a long car ride if we find the perfect home and that made me so excited! Let's be friends so I can show you all the best scratching spots behind my ears! Ripley is participating in The Love Pit's iRehome program, so ongoing care and custody are provided by their foster. All behavior and medical information is provided by their caretaker, and TLP encourages all adopters to verify the information with their caretaker prior to adoption. Exercises Grooming From ancient Germany precisely around the 19th century had the now extinct mastiff breed Bullenbeisser and bulldogs brought in from England. At the time of their arrival, they served as hunting dogs for bears, deer, and other ferocious beasts, it would capture the prey with the help of its awesome teeth and detain it until the hunter arrives. And in the first boxer standard club was launched with a comprehensive document that is still in use today. Shortly after, the breed made its way into other European countries and got into the U. S in the late 19th century with the American Kennel Club taking registration of its first boxer around .During the first world war, boxers played the role of a military dog as a pack-carrier, a guard dog, and an attack dog, later they were taken home by the soldiers and got introduced into the domestic world as a show dog, best companion, and a reliable guard. One with so much life, energetic, curious, attentive, active, smart, sociable and incredible fun with children is the boxer, they are also known to be very patient and highly protective of their family members making them the love and desire of many homes. As active dogs, they need a lot of exercise to keep them mentally fit, apparently having a mind of its own, you will find your boxer entertain itself by digging the ground often, chewing, and licking the mouth to beat boredom. They are also very stubborn in character which makes them a terrible choice for first-timers with dogs, they are generally a bit difficult with adult dogs including dogs of a similar breed but friendly with puppies. They usually do not bark unless there is a genuine reason behind it but they love to growl. If you have occupied home with people around all the time or you want a canine buddy the whole time, then a boxer is just the perfect breed to get. Being a highly active dog, they dread loneliness and they can cope finely in both a house and an apartment as long as you provide it with enough room and spaces for exercises and activities. What you must have is a large yard if you are living in a house for it to dig the ground and run around as it likes. And more so, if you are given to being away from home most of the time, getting a boxer may not be the best for you and the dog, because they usually get aggressive when left alone. Boxers are known as loud snorers and they drool greatly too. Boxers are playful and very energetic dogs as such regular exercises are part of a good canine relationship, especially a breed of this sort. Your boxer should be allowed to play in a fenced area and on-leashed since it is likely to jump and leap around in excitement. This puts a boxer as a bad choice for a frail owner as they may find it a tad impossible and daunting keeping up with its excessive activity demands. Being a breed with a short and thin coat its grooming demands are quite easy and little, all it needs is a light brushing of the hair twice every week to maintain its good and gleeful looks. Bathing should be a once in a while since boxers are generally clean dogs and its nails, be trimmed once every month or as often as they grow worn on surfaces, its teeth should also be brushed daily to avoid tartar formation and other dental crises. Our Boxer puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. Boxer Puppies for Sale.
Sometimes called a Goldenpoo or Goldenoodle, the Miniature Goldendoodle is created by crossing a miniature or toy Poodle with a Golden Retriever. The result is a mild, friendly, family dog that looks like a teddy bear come to life. Their energy level matches the Poodle genes while their gentleness and willingness to please is reflective of the Golden Retriever. They are devoted friends who crave cuddles and will follow you around just to be near you. They are smart dogs with a silly streak. They are loving and loyal and gentle enough to make good playmates for kids. Their intelligence makes them easy to train. This breed has a happy disposition and a friendly, affectionate nature. They crave close contact at all times, and they can develop separation anxiety if you leave them alone too long. They typically get along well with other dogs and other pets. They are eager, excitable, and enthusiastic about outings of all kinds. Their heads are rounded and their ears are floppy and wide-set. Their eyes are large and expressive and noses are typically black. Their muzzles are short to medium with a scissor bite. They have long and fluffy or feathered tails. Mini Goldendoodles have wavy to curly hair and they do not have an undercoat, making them a great choice for people with allergies. While they are considered hypoallergenic, some allergy-sufferers may still experience symptoms. They can be: Black. These dogs typically weigh between 10 and 25 pounds and stand around inches tall at the shoulder. They are known for their playful and affectionate personalities, as well as their low-shedding coats. One of the benefits of the Micro Goldendoodle is their hypoallergenic coat, which makes them a great choice for people with allergies. They are also highly trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. These dogs are social and enjoy spending time with their families, making them great companions for children and other pets. The Micro Goldendoodle is a relatively low-maintenance breed for grooming and upkeep. They require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling, but their low-shedding coat means they do not need frequent baths. These dogs are generally healthy and have a life expectancy of around years. The Micro Goldendoodle is a fun-loving and friendly breed well-suited for families or individuals looking for a smaller, hypoallergenic dog with a gentle disposition. Showing 1—12 of 32 results. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Fort Collins Colorado and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted! If that describes your next ideal pet, then take a look at our Mini Goldendoodle puppies for sale! Known as a designer breed because it is a cross between a toy or miniature Poodle and a Golden Retriever, Mini Goldendoodles combine the best of both breeds. Mini Goldendoodle puppies have the friendliness and affection of Golden Retrievers combined with the intelligence and hypoallergic traits of Poodles. If you want a Mini Goldendoodle for your home, then purchase a Mini Goldendoodle puppy today! Click here to view our standard Goldendoodle puppies for sale or Mini Poodle puppies for sale. If you want to learn more about the general Goldendoodle breed, you can also read our Ultimate Guide to Goldendoodles. Friendly: Mini Goldendoodles love both humans and other animals. As a result, they do not make good guard dogs and sometimes get separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. Affectionate: Even though they are friendly to strangers, Mini Goldendoodles still have a special bond with their owners. They quickly become attached to people they spend a lot of time with, and they never tire of being with their owners and family. Small Size: Mini Goldendoodles are a smaller size and weight which makes them better suited for apartments and small homes. Sociable: Mini Goldendoodles love spending time with humans, and they play well with the family and children. No matter what the family is doing, Mini Goldendoodles want to be a part of the action! Trainable: With their friendly temperament and intelligence, Mini Goldendoodles are one of the easier breeds to train. They respond well to training that is done consistently and properly, and they soon become accustomed to house rules and expectations. Adaptable: Mini Goldendoodles can adapt well to different living environments, including apartments or houses with yards. However, they still require regular exercise and mental enrichment to thrive. They are quick learners and can excel in obedience training and various dog sports. In the mids, breeders began crossing Poodles with several breeds, the most popular being Labrador Retrievers and Cocker Spaniel. The resulting breeds, known as Labradoodles and Cockapoos, became popular in the United States, and especially among families. As a result, Golden Retrievers were bred with miniature and toy Poodles in the late s to create the Mini Goldendoodle breed. Mini Goldendoodles are still a relatively young breed, and many today are first-generation Mini Goldendoodles. As a result, the breed is not recognized by any major breed registry. While Mini Goldendoodles vary in size based on the size of the Poodle used, Mini Goldendoodles are an average inches in height at the shoulder and weigh pounds. Most Mini Goldendoodles live years. Because it is a hybrid breed, the exact coat markings and features do vary from puppy to puppy. However, most Mini Goldendoodles do favor the Poodle side of the breed and will often have the curlier, shorter hair of the Poodle. Even though they favor the coat of a Poodle, Mini Goldendoodles still require regular care and grooming. Their coats and skin usually create natural body oils, and this results in regular baths not being required unless the body is unnaturally dirty. Because they are still a young breed, not much is known specifically about the overall health of the Mini Goldendoodle breed. However, there are no known health risks, and if you choose a reputable breeder, your Mini Goldendoodle puppy should not have any significant health issues. Because of their long, floppy ears, it is also important to regularly check the ears for signs of infection. Whenever your Mini Goldendoodle gets wet, make sure the hair inside the ears completely dries out. Like all dogs, Mini Goldendoodles are susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia. Hip and elbow dysplasia occurs when the leg or hip becomes weakened, and it can result in arthritis or lameness if not addressed. One of the best ways to prevent this is by keeping your dog from excessive running on hard surfaces. This is especially vital when they are a puppy. While Mini Goldendoodles are popular for being more hypoallergenic than Golden Retrievers, it does not mean they are entirely allergen-free. Allergens are caused by dander, which is dead skin cells. These skin cells are shed by any animal, including humans. Mini Goldendoodles will typically shed less than standard Golden Retrievers, but this does not eliminate dander or allergens. If you have a family member with allergen concerns, it is always good to consult with your family physician. A Standard Goldendoodle weighs lbs, whereas a Mini Goldendoodles weighs lbs. There are also Medium Goldendoodles, which are in between Standard and Min. Is there such a thing as a Toy Goldendoodle? Toy Goldendoodles are just really small Mini Goldendoodles and weigh 20 lbs or less. There are also Teacup Goldendoodles, which weigh less than 13 lbs. Are Mini Goldendoodles nicer than Standard Goldendoodles? However, their small size makes Mini Goldendoodles more manageable for many families, especially those with small children. Are Goldendoodles recognized by any major breed industry? Since Goldendoodles are a mixed and relatively new breed, they are not recognized by any major breed industry. Many breed agencies, such as the American Kennel Club, do not recognize designer breeds - breeds when a Poodle is mixed with another breed. Are Mini Goldendoodles yappy? Not usually. Mini Goldendoodles are occasional barkers, but not incessant yappers. They will warn you if someone is at the door, though. Do Mini Goldendoodles have an odor? In general, Goldendoodles are low-odor dogs, a trait they inherit from their Poodle parents. If you keep your Mini Goldendoodle trimmed and clean him regularly, you shouldn't have too many issues with odors. Are Mini Goldendoodles hyper? Mini Goldendoodles are not hyperactive. However, they are moderately active dogs and need daily play and exercise. Puppies are usually more hyper than adult dogs. Are they hard to housetrain? Mini Goldendoodles are highly intelligent and are usually fairly easy to train. Are they high maintenance? Mini Goldendoodles are fairly low maintenance. However, they are moderately active, so they need daily exercise. Also, their coats mat easily, so they need regular brushing. Which is better to own: a male or female Mini Goldendoodle? Some say that male dogs tend to be more stable and less prone to emotional swings than female dogs. However, personality varies from individual to individual, and both male and female Mini Goldendoodles make great companions! Similar Breeds.
16 week old boxer puppy - Phone: Retriever Rescue of Colorado helps lots of dogs get adopted, not just retrievers. You can view all available dogs on their website to see when Poodles are available! They even have a Poodle filter to make it super simple. Animal Rescue of the Rockies Address: E. Mississippi Ave. A ludicrously happy Poodle puppy with a white coat They go beyond just helping you adopt because they help you incorporate your new dog into your family seamlessly, so everyone is comfortable and happy. They also offer training and transition support so you and your new Poodle can start a wonderful life together. They save and rehabilitate dogs who came from puppy mills or were discarded by breeders. This incredible rescue often has Poodles, but they get adopted quickly. So keep an eye on their website and wait for a fluffy Poodle to pop up! The more St Bernard genetics — the closer it will resemble that breed. You can use their search filter to see if they have Poodle mixes available to adopt, which they often do. Mile High Canine Rescue not only offers adoptions, but they also do some incredible community outreach for people in low-income neighborhoods. You can also call or email them inquiring about their adoptable breeds. However, they can get super busy on the weekends, so try to visit on weekdays if you can. A black and white Poodle playing in the grass. So keep an eye out. This is a foster-based rescue, so the dogs are typically well acclimated to households and know how to go potty outside. They have all kinds of dogs, from puppies to elderly dogs, and every breed you can imagine. A happy Goldendoodle with his tongue out looks at camera Friend of Jack Rescue. Vocality level 5 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. This breed retains its hunting heritage, and loves to run, swim, and retrieve. The dog gets along well with everyone, although is somewhat reserved with strangers. The Poodle is excellent with children. Upkeep All Poodles need a lot of interaction with people. They also need mental and physical exercise. Standard Poodles will need more exercise and may especially enjoy swimming. They should preferably be brushed every other day or weekly for shorter coats. Poodle hair, when shed, does not fall out but becomes caught in the surrounding hair, which can cause matting if not removed. The pet clips are easier to maintain and can be done every four to six weeks. Interwoven in their ancestry are also several rough-coated water dogs. Perhaps the earliest incarnation of the Poodle was the Barbet, a curly-coated dog distributed in France, Russia, Hungary, and elsewhere. It is the German version, however, that exerted most influence on the modern Poodle. In France, it was known as caniche or chien canard, both referring to duck-hunting abilities. The Poodle was also drawn into service as a military dog, guide dog, guard dog, wagon puller for performers, and eventually, a circus performer. The coat was shorn close to facilitate swimming, but left slightly longer on the chest for warmth in cold water. The Poodle became favored by French aristocracy and eventually became the national dog of France. The characteristic clip was accentuated. In the 's, Poodle popularity in America waned. By the late s, Poodles had almost died out in North America. In the s, the breed staged a comeback that eventually placed the Poodle as the most popular dog in America for decades. Related Content.
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16 week old boxer puppy - As the name implies, this breed originates from Germany and was originally intended to be a herding breed. Today, however, the German Shepherd is best known for its versatility. Although they may have started as a herding dog, GSDs have been used to perform a huge array of tasks. They are a popular breed for police work, search and rescue, and tracking. But the German Shepherd also makes a fantastic companion dog. Single Coats vs Double Coats in dogs. Dogs have either double coats or single coats. In dogs with a double coat, the undercoat is made up of softer, dense usually short fur. It keeps the dog warm in cold weather, and also protects the dog against extreme heat. If a dog has a single coat, then there is only the topcoat. No undercoat will be present. Are German Shepherds Double-Coated? Although German Shepherds have the same general looks, there is some variation within the breed. German Shepherds are generally considered double-coated dogs, but the coat can come in a variety of lengths and thicknesses. Some German Shepherd dogs do not have an undercoat present. The only German Shepherds that are acceptable in competitions will have a medium-length overcoat with an undercoat. If the dog does not have an undercoat, then this is considered a fault by the AKC. Some dogs have undercoats that are very sparse or that shed completely. This is called an open coat, and it is also considered to be a fault. German Shepherd coats can vary greatly. A medium-length coat, which is usually one or two inches long and is the only coat acceptable for show lines. There will be an undercoat present. A long coat with an undercoat, which will have an overcoat at least two inches long. This coat will usually be very thick, which makes these particular dogs especially well-suited to colder climates. A long coat without an undercoat, which looks very similar to a dog with a long coat with an undercoat, but without an undercoat. You should be able to feel for yourself the softer undercoat underneath the overcoat. However, it can be more difficult to tell in puppies. This is because puppies are born with a single coat, with the fur being very soft and fluffy. At around 4 to 6 months old, the puppy will shed this coat completely, and his adult coat will grow in. If the parents both have double coats, then most likely the puppy will also have a double coat. Remember to always get your puppy from a reputable breeder. Coat Types and Shedding German Shepherds shed throughout the year, but their coat type can affect the amount that they shed. During the spring and fall when your double-coated German Shepherd is blowing out his coat, you will need to be even more diligent about brushing him. One of the biggest mistakes you can make for your dog is bathing him too often. You should only have to bathe your GSD every 3 to 4 months or so. Around the spring, during flea season, you may find that you need to bathe your dog more often. Just try not to bathe him more than every 2 months to help keep his coat and skin healthy. Can You Shave a German Shepherd? Your dog is already naturally insulated from hot weather. If you shave your German Shepherd, then you may ruin his double coat. It can take years for his coat to grow back in properly, and in some cases, it may never grow in right again. Using a suitable de-shedding tool or rake, brushing at least thrice a week helps remove loose hairs, stimulate the skin, and keep the coat healthy. It's essential to follow the direction of the coat and use gentle strokes. Brushing a German Shepherd's double coat is more than just a beautification routine; it's a vital part of maintaining the coat's function and the dog's overall well-being. Regular brushing stimulates blood flow to the skin, enhances the natural oils that keep the coat shiny and removes dead hair, dirt, and debris. Furthermore, it provides an opportunity to check for signs of skin problems or parasites, which may otherwise go unnoticed. It fosters a healthier coat and strengthens the bond between the owner and the pet. High-Quality Diet Feeding a high-quality diet rich in essential nutrients, especially Omega-3 fatty acids, promotes a healthy coat in German Shepherds. Proper nutrition supports skin health and reduces excessive shedding by nourishing the hair follicles, making the coat more resilient and vibrant. A well-balanced diet for a German Shepherd caters to their energy needs and plays a vital role in their coat's health. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oils, flaxseed, and certain high-quality dog foods improve skin hydration and hair strength, thereby reducing shedding. Professional dog trainers and veterinarians often recommend a diet specifically targeting a German Shepherd's dietary needs, including the right balance of protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals. The high-quality diet approach not only enhances the appearance of the coat but significantly contributes to the dog's overall well-being. Proper Bathing Proper bathing plays a significant role in controlling shedding in German Shepherd puppies. Using a specialized dog shampoo formulated for shedding control and bathing in moderation helps maintain the coat's natural oils, preventing dryness that can lead to increased shedding. Proper bathing is not just about cleaning; it's about maintaining the health and integrity of the German Shepherd's double coat. Overbathing can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and more shedding, while underbathing may lead to buildup and matting. Moreover, the choice of water temperature, gentle drying methods, and proper rinsing all factor into a successful bathing routine. The perfect balance in bathing is crucial in making your German Shepherd's coat manageable, shiny, and healthy, reflecting proper care and attention. Flea Control Flea control is vital in managing shedding in German Shepherd puppies. Fleas can irritate the skin, causing itchiness and discomfort and increased scratching and shedding. Utilizing appropriate flea control products and regular inspections can help keep these pests at bay and the coat healthy. Fleas are more than just a nuisance; they can severely affect a dog's skin and coat health. When a German Shepherd puppy suffers from flea infestation, it leads to constant scratching and biting at the skin. This irritation can break the hair, leading to more shedding and potential skin infections. Preventing and treating fleas is not just about using anti-flea products; it includes maintaining a clean environment and regular coat inspections. Professional dog trainers recommend a multi-faceted approach that involves vet-approved flea control products and maintaining hygiene in the dog's living spaces. Proper flea control, therefore, plays a critical role in managing shedding and ensuring your puppy's comfort and well-being. Hydration Hydration plays a vital role in a German Shepherd puppy's overall health, including the health of its skin and coat. Ensuring constant access to fresh water helps maintain skin elasticity and hydration, preventing dryness that can contribute to increased shedding. Suggestion: Do German Shepherds drink a lot of water? The connection between hydration and a dog's skin and coat health is often overlooked, yet it's essential to controlling shedding. Skin is an organ; like all organs, it requires proper hydration to function optimally. Dry skin can lead to brittle hair and excessive shedding. A well-hydrated dog will generally have a more resilient and glossy coat. Ensuring that fresh water is always available, especially during hot weather or after exercise, can significantly affect your German Shepherd's coat health. Though simple, hydration is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being and is integral in managing shedding in German Shepherd puppies. Use of Conditioners Utilizing conditioners specifically formulated for dogs during bathing can significantly help manage shedding in German Shepherd puppies. Conditioners nourish the coat, keep it silky, and prevent dryness, a common cause of increased shedding. Conditioners play a significant role in maintaining the integrity and health of a German Shepherd's coat. They contain ingredients that help lock moisture into the hair shaft, making the coat more resilient and less prone to breaking and shedding. Many conditioners are enriched with vitamins, oils, and other nourishing ingredients that not only improve the appearance of the coat but also make grooming and detangling easier. Choosing a conditioner designed specifically for dogs is essential, as human products may contain ingredients that can irritate a dog's skin. Conditioners are a simple yet effective method to enhance the coat's health and manage to shed in German Shepherd puppies. Routine Veterinary Check-ups Routine veterinary check-ups are essential in controlling shedding in German Shepherd puppies, as they can identify underlying health issues that may contribute to shedding. Regular vet visits enable early detection and treatment, ensuring the overall health and well-being of the coat and skin. Veterinary check-ups are not just for vaccinations or obvious health issues; they also play a critical role in monitoring the overall condition of your German Shepherd's skin and coat. Veterinarians have the expertise to identify these issues early on, allowing for prompt treatment and possibly reducing or eliminating the associated shedding. These visits also offer an opportunity for professional guidance on diet, grooming, and general care tailored specifically to your dog's needs. This proactive approach to health care can significantly aid in managing shedding and maintaining the vibrancy and beauty of your German Shepherd's coat. Avoid Stress Avoiding stress is crucial in controlling shedding in German Shepherd puppies. Stress can cause physiological responses leading to excessive shedding. A comfortable living environment, regular exercise, and mental stimulation can keep your puppy happy and reduce shedding. Stress in dogs can manifest in various ways, including increased shedding. Stressors for a German Shepherd may include a sudden change in environment, loud noises, or lack of mental and physical stimulation. Professional trainers emphasize the importance of understanding your dog's needs and stress triggers. Recognizing signs of stress early and taking proactive measures to create a stable, positive environment for your German Shepherd will help manage shedding and contribute to a happier, healthier, and well-adjusted dog. Use Specialized Grooming Products Utilizing specialized grooming products designed for German Shepherds can be an effective method to control shedding. These products, including shampoos, brushes, and de-shedding tools, are formulated to meet the specific needs of the breed's double coat and help reduce loose hairs. Specialized grooming products have become increasingly popular among German Shepherd owners and professional groomers, tailored to the breed's unique double coat. The dual-layer coat requires specific care, and using products designed to penetrate the thick undercoat can make grooming more efficient and effective. Furthermore, shampoos with natural ingredients formulated for the breed can help nourish the skin and reduce shedding. Investing in the right grooming products is an essential step towards a well-groomed and beautiful coat and contributes significantly to controlling shedding in German Shepherd puppies. Keep a Stable Environment Keeping a stable environment is pivotal in controlling shedding in German Shepherd puppies. Abrupt living conditions, temperature, or routine changes can cause stress and increase shedding. Maintaining consistency and predictability in your puppy's environment supports a healthy coat. The importance of a stable environment for German Shepherds cannot be overstated. This breed often thrives on routine and predictability, and sudden changes can cause unnecessary stress, manifesting in physical symptoms, including increased shedding. Professional dog trainers emphasize the importance of maintaining a consistent daily routine, including feeding, exercise, and rest times. This stability fosters a sense of security in the dog, leading to a calmer disposition and a healthier coat. By understanding the importance of routine and consistency in a German Shepherd's life, owners can create a positive living environment that reduces shedding and contributes to the dog's overall happiness and well-being. What months do German Shepherd puppies shed the most? German Shepherd puppies shed the most during spring April and autumn September as they transition between their winter and summer coats. This process, known as "blowing the coat," produces more loose hair during these seasons. The shedding pattern of German Shepherd puppies, particularly during the spring and autumn, is part of a natural process to adjust to seasonal temperature changes. In the spring, they shed their thicker winter coat to make way for a lighter summer coat, and in autumn, they prepare for winter by shedding the summer coat for a denser winter one. This phenomenon can be observed in many double-coated dog breeds. Owners must be prepared for this increased shedding by adjusting grooming routines and using proper tools designed to handle the heavier shedding. Understanding this shedding pattern can help manage the process, keep the puppy comfortable, and maintain a healthy, well-groomed appearance throughout these key transitional months. How to keep the coat of your German Shepherd puppy healthy? Keeping the coat of a German Shepherd puppy healthy requires a combination of proper diet, regular grooming, stress management, and routine veterinary check-ups. These factors work together to maintain the coat's shine and strength and reduce excessive shedding. Proper Nutrition: Proper nutrition is the foundation of a healthy coat for German Shepherd puppies. A balanced diet, rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, directly influences the coat's shine, strength, and resilience. Quality dog food formulated specifically for German Shepherds will have the right blend of nutrients that support skin and coat health. Providing the right diet is a critical step in maintaining a lustrous coat and the overall well-being of the puppy. Regular Grooming: Regular grooming is vital for maintaining a healthy coat in German Shepherd puppies. This process removes loose hair and stimulates the skin to produce natural oils, which keep the coat glossy and moisturized. Using the right brushes and grooming techniques ensures that the topcoat and undercoat are properly cared for, promoting overall coat health and reducing shedding. Regular grooming also allows early detection of any skin issues, contributing to the puppy's overall health. Use Specialized Products: Using specialized products specifically designed for German Shepherds can significantly enhance the coat's appearance and health. These shampoos, conditioners, and grooming tools are formulated to suit the unique double coat of the breed. By using products that cater to the specific needs of the German Shepherd's coat, owners can ensure proper care, nourishment, and maintenance, thus supporting optimal coat condition and minimizing problems such as tangling and excessive shedding. Routine Veterinary Care: Routine veterinary care plays an integral role in maintaining the health of a German Shepherd's coat. Regular check-ups allow for early detection of underlying health issues that might affect the coat, such as skin infections or hormonal imbalances. Veterinarians can also provide tailored advice on grooming and nutrition, ensuring that the coat remains vibrant, strong, and reflects the overall well-being of the puppy. The veterinary insight contributes significantly to a proactive approach to coat health. Flea Control: Flea control is essential in maintaining a healthy coat in German Shepherd puppies. Fleas can cause irritation, scratching, and subsequent damage to the skin and coat. Proper flea prevention through regular treatments and maintaining a clean living environment will avoid these issues. Flea control not only helps keep the coat lush and healthy but also ensures the overall comfort and well-being of the puppy by preventing potential skin infections and discomfort. Maintain Hydration: Maintaining hydration is vital to keeping a German Shepherd puppy's coat healthy. Adequate water intake ensures the skin remains supple and hydrated, preventing dryness and flakiness that can lead to increased shedding. Providing fresh water at all times and encouraging regular drinking helps preserve the coat's natural shine and resilience, reflecting a well-hydrated and healthy puppy. Avoid Stress: Avoiding stress is key to maintaining a German Shepherd puppy's coat health. Stress can trigger physiological responses that lead to excessive shedding and a dull appearance. Creating a stable and predictable environment, including consistent routines and positive reinforcement, can minimize stress. By fostering a calm and secure setting, owners can promote a vibrant and healthy coat and overall mental well-being in their German Shepherd puppies. Proper Bathing: Proper bathing is essential for keeping a German Shepherd's coat healthy. Overbathing can strip natural oils, leading to dryness and brittleness, while underbathing may allow dirt buildup. Using breed-specific shampoos and conditioners, and following a suitable bathing schedule, ensures the coat remains clean without losing essential moisture. Proper bathing techniques nourish the coat, promote shine, and prevent unnecessary shedding, contributing to a well-groomed appearance. Temperature Control: Temperature control is an often-overlooked aspect of maintaining a healthy coat in German Shepherd puppies. Sudden changes or extremes in temperature can lead to dry, irritated skin and increased shedding. Owners can create a comfortable environment that supports healthy skin and coats by maintaining a consistent indoor temperature and humidity level. Proper temperature control contributes to the overall well-being and comfort of the German Shepherd, reflecting in a lush, vibrant coat. Exercise Regularly: Regular exercise is essential for a German Shepherd's overall health and coat condition. Physical activity stimulates blood circulation, nourishing the skin and fur and promoting a healthy and shiny coat. Exercise also helps in reducing stress, which can affect coat health. Engaging in daily physical activities tailored to the puppy's age and needs ensures a vibrant coat and a happy and well-balanced German Shepherd. What are the best grooming tools for German Shepherds? The best grooming tools for German Shepherds include a slicker brush for removing loose hair, an undercoat rake to thin out the dense undercoat, a bristle brush for smoothing the topcoat, and nail clippers for regular maintenance. These tools are essential for the breed's specific grooming needs. German Shepherds have a dense double coat that requires specialized care. The slicker brush is used for detangling and removing loose fur, while the undercoat rake helps to thin out the dense undercoat without damaging the topcoat. The bristle brush smooths the topcoat, giving it a shine and finishing look. Nail clippers designed for larger breeds are also essential for maintaining healthy nails and preventing issues that could affect the dog's gait. Choosing the right tools makes grooming more efficient and enhances the overall health and appearance of the German Shepherd's coat. Below, you can find the most popular and favorite choice of grooming tools for German Shepherd dogs: Final words Navigating the world of German Shepherd shedding can be a hairy adventure, but fear not! Our in-depth conversation has unraveled the mysteries of when and why these magnificent dogs shed, how to tame fur tumbleweeds, and the best tools to make grooming a breeze. We've explored everything from the seasonal shedding cycles to the importance of proper nutrition and even debunked the myth of shaving. The health and happiness of your furry friend are just a brush stroke away. So grab that slicker brush and embrace the joy of grooming your German Shepherd! Frequently asked questions Do you still have questions? Check our FAQ section, and you can find your answer here! German Shepherd puppies shed the most during seasonal changes, particularly in spring and autumn. In spring, they shed their dense winter undercoat to prepare for warmer weather, and in autumn, they shed their summer coat for a thicker winter. Your German Shepherd puppy may be shedding excessively due to various factors such as seasonal changes, poor diet, allergies, skin infections, or hormonal imbalances. Consulting with a veterinarian to identify the underlying cause can help determine the appropriate care and treatment for your puppy. German Shepherd puppies shed continuously, with increased shedding during seasonal changes in spring and autumn. The intense shedding periods typically last around weeks. Regular grooming can help manage the shedding and maintain a healthy coat throughout the year. Yes, German Shepherds may shed more as they age due to skin and coat health changes. Factors such as reduced natural oil production, hormonal imbalances, or underlying health issues can increase shedding in older German Shepherds. Regular veterinary care can help manage this condition. Your German Shepherd may be shedding excessively in the summer as part of the natural process of shedding the dense winter undercoat, making way for a lighter summer coat. Other factors like diet, allergies, or skin conditions might also contribute to increased shedding. Regular grooming can help manage the shedding during this period. Yes, German Shepherd puppies shed constantly, but the amount can vary throughout the year. They have a double coat that requires continuous maintenance, with increased shedding during seasonal changes in spring and autumn. Regular grooming helps manage shedding and keeps the coat healthy. Shaving a German Shepherd puppy is generally not recommended. Their double coat is insulation against cold and heat, and shaving can disrupt this natural temperature regulation. It may also cause issues with regrowth, leading to a patchy, uneven coat. Consulting a professional groomer for proper care is advisable. Our breeding program has earned the the highest level of accomplishments that a kennel in the United States can achieve. Nadelhaus breeds purebred German Shepherds year round and we also import both German Shepherd puppies and adults direct from Europe for our clients. Long-haired German Shepherds are technically called a long coat German Shepherd, while a short-haired German Shepherd is called a normal coat or stock coat German Shepherd. Dogs with either coat have the same physiological structure and both have double coats: an undercoat and a top coat. The only difference between the two is the top coat. The long haired German Shepherd will have a heavier top coat than the undercoat. The double coat of a German Shepherd is an important feature of the breed. The double coat weathers and insulates the dogs—it protects them from the cold in the winter and the heat in the summer. The length of the coat of a German Shepherd has no impact on its ability as a working dog. What does a long haired German Shepherd look like? The skeleton and structure of a long-haired German Shepherd will be the same as a short-haired German Shepherd. Both dogs will have an undercoat, but the difference is that the top coat of a long-haired German Shepherd will be longer. The long coat GSD has longer and silkier hair on the chest, back, face, tail, and on the backside of its legs. Short on the head, including the inside of the ears, on the front side of the legs, on the paws and toes, somewhat longer and more strongly covered in hair on the neck, almost forming a mane. On the back side of the legs the hair extends to the carpal joint or the hock and forms clear trousers on the back side of the haunches. Historically, German Shepherds originated in Germany and were native sheepdogs. He firmly believed that the standard of the German Shepherd breed should not include dogs with long hair. Throughout the s, long haired German Shepherds were considered unsuitable and unacceptable for breeding. It is important to note that long-haired German Shepherds are the result of natural genetic diversity and not a separate breed. Their long coats are an inherited trait that can occur when both parents carry the recessive long-hair gene. This gene manifests as a more luxurious and abundant coat, offering a striking contrast to the traditional short-haired German Shepherd appearance. The breeding of long-haired German Shepherds follows the same rigorous standards and principles as their short-haired counterparts. The focus remains on maintaining the breed's exceptional temperament, working abilities, and overall health. Over time, breeders recognized the value of long-haired German Shepherds and began selectively breeding them to maintain and enhance their unique characteristics. Through careful pairings and strategic breeding programs, the long-haired variety established itself as a distinct and cherished branch of the German Shepherd breed. How big do long-haired German Shepherds get? Long-haired German Shepherds are structurally the same as short-haired German Shepherds, therefore they can both grow to similar sizes. Males: inches tall, pounds Females: inches tall, pounds Since both German Shepherds are physiologically the same, they also have the same temperaments: loyal, intelligent, energetic, courageous and protective. German Shepherds are ranked 2 on the AKC Breed Popularity list and make for wonderful family companions and working dogs. How can I identify a long-haired German Shepherd puppy? In the photo below are two litter mates from a recent Nadelhaus litter. The puppy on the left is a long coat and the puppy on the right is a normal coat. The long coat has wispier hair on the chest, back, face, tail, and on the backside of its legs. Long-hair female German Shepherd next to short-hair male German Shepherd. Genetically in German Shepherds, the short hair gene is dominant and the long hair gene is recessive. This means if two short-haired German Shepherds are mated, but neither carries the recessive long hair gene, then no long haired puppies can be produced. However, if two short-haired German Shepherds are mated and both carry the recessive gene, then long-haired German Shepherd puppies can be produced. Long-haired German Shepherds are considered a less common variant of the breed, adding to their allure and exclusivity. While short-haired German Shepherds dominate the breed standard, enthusiasts of long-haired Shepherds appreciate their unique beauty and elegant appearance. Due to their rarity, finding a reputable breeder or rescue organization specializing in long-haired German Shepherds may require some research and patience. However, the joy of owning one of these beautiful dogs is well worth the effort for those who appreciate their longer coats and exceptional qualities. Do long-haired German Shepherds shed more than short-haired German Shepherds? No, this is a common misconception. Although they shed less than short haired German Shepherds, their coats still require regular maintenance. They will need regular brushing and grooming, especially if you enjoy hiking or outdoor activities with your GSD. While it is a rare occurrence for a long-haired GSD to not have an undercoat, most of them do have undercoats. And just like short-haired GSDs, their undercoats will shed more or less throughout the year depending on the season. Should I trim my long haired German Shepherd's coat? The decision to trim a long haired German Shepherd comes down to personal preference, but it is not a necessity. Trimming can help make for more manageable living around the house. If you choose to trim, you can trim around the backs of the ears, on the back of the legs both front and back and then thin the bushy tail. Shaving a German Shepherd on the other hand is never recommended. Their double coats help keep them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. What are long haired German Shepherds called? Regular brushing: Long-haired German Shepherds require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangles. Aim for at least a few brushing sessions per week to keep their coat in good condition. Finish your brushing session with a gentle dog brush to clean up loose hairs. Bathing and drying: It's important to bathe your long-haired German Shepherd as needed, using a dog-specific shampoo. Be sure to thoroughly rinse out all the shampoo to prevent any residue. After bathing, use a high-velocity dryer or a cool air dryer to dry their coat thoroughly, as moisture trapped in the fur can lead to skin issues. Professional grooming: Consider taking your long-haired German Shepherd to a professional groomer for occasional trimming and coat maintenance. A groomer can help keep the fur around sensitive areas, such as the paws and ears, tidy and reduce the chances of matting. Watch for seasonal shedding: Like all German Shepherds, long-haired ones will undergo shedding seasons. Be prepared for increased shedding during these times and brush your dog more frequently to remove loose hair. A de-shedding tool can be helpful in managing shedding and keeping their coat healthy. Remember, each dog is unique, and the specific care requirements may vary. Does Nadelhaus sell long haired German Shepherd puppies? Nadelhaus breeds German Shepherds puppies year round and while the majority of puppies we sell are short hair, we do have occasionally have long haired puppies. We breed all our German Shepherds in the black and red color. If you are looking for a long haired adult German Shepherd, we can also import long-haired German Shepherds direct from Europe. Contact us for more information. Panda Black German Shepherd Most of these other colors are a lot rarer and are generally less desirable for show dogs. Length The most common coat appearance for a German Shepherd is a medium length, black and tan coat. Much like the coat color, the coat length and thickness can vary as well, including long, thicker coats, medium-length plush coats, and short-haired coats. Appearance A German Shepherd coat is almost always fairly straight, with a coarse outer coat. Long-haired dogs can appear smoother than the medium-length or short-haired coats. It is possible for German Shepherds to have variations in coat due to genetics. A double coat, when parted with the fingers, has two very different-looking hair types. There is a smooth, thick-haired outer-layer called the guard coat, and a thick, fluffy under-layer called the undercoat. Another way to tell whether your dog has a double coat is to examine shed hair from your dog. Look closely at the shed hair to see if there are two different types of hair present. A double coat will have some fluffier tufts with a few single, more wire-like hairs. Shedding in itself is a sign of a double coat, as double coats thicken out over winter and thin out, or shed, during the spring. As mentioned above, the undercoat is made up of a thick, fluffy layer of fur growing beneath the guard coat. The hairs that make up the undercoat are much finer than the outer layer. There are many more of them, together forming the fluffy appearance and texture. The Guard Coat The guard coat is the protective layer of hair covering the undercoat, and this layer protects the undercoat and skin from dirt and water, being naturally water-resistant. Double coats are a result of breeding, associated with colder climates or areas that snow. For example, German Shepherds originated from Germany, which is known to have very cold winters. The undercoat is the main insulator. When dogs with a double-coat shed, the hair that comes off is predominantly the fluffy undercoat. In the spring, this fluff comes off in tufts and leaves a lot of mess. The shedding helps your dog stay cool for the warmer temperatures to come. Source Substantial coat maintenance not only keeps your dog happy and comfortable but also keeps your house cleaner. Regular grooming avoids unnecessary shedding and trapped dirt in the coat, which inevitably lands on your floor or furniture. Brushing A German Shepherd with a double coat requires daily brushing. The best brush to use for a double coat is called a rake. A rake targets the shedding undercoat, and the hair is picked up on the brush instead of falling out onto the floor for you to clean. Rake the undercoat from head to tail while removing the hair out of the brush. When you can brush through the hair with almost no hair coming off onto the brush or rake, you know that you have removed all of the shedding undercoat. In general, double-coated dogs can be washed every eight weeks if necessary, and more often if they are shedding. Washing a shedding coat can help to remove excess shedding fur and prevent mats. You can brush the wet coat thoroughly after the wash to assist in shedding maintenance even more. Over-washing can cause irritation and dryness of the skin, so make sure you limit washing to no more than once a week to once a month only if necessary. A double coat is an insulation system on its own. The guard hairs may not grow back properly, and the undercoat may take over some areas of the outer coat. If shearing your dog is absolutely necessary, never shear the coat shorter than one inch. A coat shaved shorter than an inch will leave the skin exposed to sunburn and insect bites. There are dog foods specially formulated for German Shepherds and are always a good choice when looking into proper nutrients for your dog. Choosing The Right Dog Food The main components to look out for are quality protein sources, adequate fat percentage of around five to eight percent, and the following vitamins: Vitamin A. A rich diversity of lengths, colors and pigment—combined with a number of varying body types—make the German Shepherd one of the more structurally diverse of all dog breeds. From the short stock coat of the East German working line dogs to the extreme long stock coat of some West German show-line dogs—there is a shape, style and color tailored to you and your lifestyle. There are three main types of hair on German Shepherd Dogs: ground hair undercoat , guard hair topcoat and whiskers. Dogs with both an undercoat and a topcoat are called double coated. The first layer, or undercoat, functions primarily as insulation and is soft and usually of a lighter color. The second layer, or topcoat, consists of thick-shafted, coarse hair. It also has weatherproofing qualities ideal for working and playing outdoors. With rare exception, most German Shepherds have double coats—though the degree of undercoat can vary widely. German Shepherds can have little to almost no undercoat or have massively dense, woolly undercoats that require daily maintenance. Double coats are ideal for maintaining warmth in colder months, but also provide cooling in the summer by keeping heat away from the surface of the skin. For this reason, the shaving of double-coated dogs is not recommended if they have prolonged exposure to the elements. Their coat helps regulate body temperature and protects their skin from harmful UV rays. Shedding German Shepherds, aka German Shedders, shed and shed a lot. Working dogs are required to do their jobs regardless of weather or terrain. To keep their coats in optimum condition—daily, excessive shedding is needed. Unfortunately for us, this means additional brushing and bathing. If you do not own a good vacuum cleaner or sweeper, you will need to purchase one if you have one or more German Shepherds inside your home. In the spring, their thick winter undercoat is shed and replaced with a thinner, cooler undercoat. In the fall, their summer undercoat is shed and replaced by a thicker, warmer undercoat. Care and Grooming Daily brushing and frequent bathing are your best defenses against excessive shedding. Bathe and groom puppies frequently so they learn to enjoy—or at least tolerate—the experience. Most German Shepherds enjoy a good grooming and since most love water in any form , bathing can also be a pleasurable experience for them. Daily brushing and frequent bathing are your best defenses against excessive shedding. Brushing Most double-coated breeds like German Shepherds need to be brushed regularly—especially if they have a thick undercoat. In the spring and fall when their coats are being blown, daily brushing is important. This helps reduce the amount of hair inside your home and removes their undercoat more quickly. While regular brushing is great for removing loose and dying hair, it also gets rid of mats and tangles—which are common with long- and medium-length coats. Mats are not only unsightly, but they can be painful due to their closeness and tightness to the skin. In southern parts of the country where humidity is high, mats can also lead to skin irritations as the dampness can encourage the growth of skin irritants and other microbes. Check your German Shepherd often for mats—paying special attention to areas behind the ears, between the legs and along the back of the thighs. If your dog is a short stock coat with little undercoat, occasional brushing and bathing is all that is required to keep their coats looking great. Click HERE to learn about elbow hygromas and options for treating and prevent them. Keep your German Shepherd's elbows soft and free of calluses and hygromas. Calming bed for dogs who suffer from anxiety. Water resistant and tear resistant cover. Non-skid bottom. Replacement covers available separately. This short coat, with a thin undercoat, is easy to maintain and can require little or infrequent grooming. Bathing is a breeze as their coats are designed for waterproofing and dry quickly. Water generally rolls off of the guard hairs of German Shepherd Dogs. For all of these reasons and more, short stock coats are the preferred coat type for service dogs, police dogs and military dogs. The dog pictured to the right is an excellent example of a very nice, healthy coated, short stock coat—with minimal undercoat. Medium stock coats have longer, thicker hair on the neck, underbelly and along the back of the thighs. Their undercoat tends to be more dense than that seen in the short stock coats of West and East German working lines. Medium stock coats require additional grooming to keep their coats in optimum condition. Note also that medium- and long-coated dogs do not shed more than their short stock-coat counterparts—the hair shed is just longer. Hair around the face, ears, chest, bottom line and back of thigh panties can exceed four inches in length. This coat requires regular care and grooming. Hair, especially behind the ears and between their rear legs, is prone to matting, and requires daily brushing. The American Kennel Club AKC is one of the few show organizations that still considers a long stock coat to be faulty. Long stock-coat dogs are not only accepted by most German Shepherd Club organizations, including the German SV, but they have become valuable and sought after in recent years—and compete at the highest levels in Germany and world wide. Note also that these coats often continue to grow in length and density with age, so older dogs require additional daily care and grooming. All coat colors and lengths mentioned above are attributes of purebred German Shepherds. However, some breed organizations consider certain characteristics to be breed faults and can be penalized or even disqualifying in the show ring. However, if you plan to show your dog, you will need to study the standard and requirements of your desired show organization s to ensure your dog is eligible to compete and title in the show ring. But the German Shepherd of today actually comes in a variety of colors and patterns as pictured above. The color of their coat is determined by genetic makeup. Genes that are dominant are more common, while those that are recessive are more rare. Black and Tan This is the most common color pattern—which is usually black all over, with tan or cream-colored chest, shoulders, legs and thighs. There are many color variations to this pattern, most commonly—black and red, black and cream and black and silver. Bicolor Another variation to the traditional black-and-tan colored dog are bicolored dogs. Their bodies are predominantly black with a secondary accent color on the lower legs that can be tan, cream, gray or silver. All of these black areas, also called points, on the legs and toes should be richly pigmented. A dog is not considered to be bicolored unless it has these distinctive black markings and they can appear on both dual- and sable-patterned dogs. Sable The word sable means the color of black. The definition of a sable pattern refers to guard hairs being tipped with black. The more guard hairs and the longer the tipping, the darker the dog. Black sables are dogs with heavy tipping and less ground color. Agouti is a term that refers to the banding or grizzling of hair coloration that can be seen in varying amounts in the neck, shoulder, tail, croup and border markings in saddle-marked dogs. Some German Shepherds have so much grizzling in the black blanket or so much undercoat showing, that they are hard to distinguish from sables, and some sables that carry the partially-hidden, saddle-pattern recessive gene have so much of that recessive showing through that they look like washed-out saddles. Melanistic is another term associated with black coloring. Melanistic refers to the amount and density of melanin black pigment found within the hair shaft. Melanistic coloring refers to the masking of a color or pattern with black. Sable-colored German Shepherds are infamous for changing colors multiple times before reaching maturity. Adult dogs can have a completely different coloring and pattern then what was present as a puppy. No good dog is a bad color. Black is uncommon due to being a recessive gene but still prevalent within the breed. Typically, they are completely black with no other colors on the body. Solid White Solid white German Shepherds are not albinos. Their color is the result of a recessive gene that can be carried by any colored dog. When learning about pigment and color patterns, understand that white is not a color. There is no solid-color gene for white. The more pure white a dog, the lighter the color of its masked color underneath. Every white German Shepherd is really a traditional color and pattern covered by a white mask. The blue colors in these dogs replace the black areas of their more common black-and-tan counterparts. Blue dogs often appear as a dusty or somewhat light gray with a gray leather nose. Sometimes puppies are born with very light eyes as well. This, too, is a rare recessive gene and considered by the AKC to be a faulty eye color. Isabella An Isabella German Shepherd, aka lilac or mouse-gray German Shepherd, is the result of a recessive gene dilution giving them a washed-out silvery-blue color. The color is not technically a blue, however. The color is most widely recognized within the Weimaraner breed. Because Isabella German Shepherds are less common and considered faulty for showing purposes, there are fewer reputable and responsible breeders. Select your Isabella GSD breeder carefully and insist on thorough health testing information and lineage information. Liver Liver is another recessive gene leading to liver-colored offspring. In a liver-colored dog, all the black parts are a brown or liver color, ranging from light to dark shades. They might also have light eyes—which typically changes into a darker color with maturity. Panda The Panda German Shepherd is a piebold-colored dog meaning no more than 35 percent of its body is white with mixed patches of black and brown. Research confirms that this pattern is not the result of crossbreeding—but rather a genetic mutation. Ticking vs. Roan vs. Blue Merle Ticking is flecks or spots of color on white areas. Most ticked dogs are born white and develop ticking as they mature. Generally, ticking is heaviest on the legs and muzzle. Roan is a pattern of white and colored hairs evenly mixed over the white areas of the body. Roaning creates a near-solid pattern over a white coat causing a dog to appear dusted with white. If the predominant color of the dog is black, then the roaning can appear bluish in color. People sometimes confuse merle dogs with roan or ticked dogs. Merle dogs do not have a white base coat of color, however, some merle dogs are ticked. The genes responsible for ticking, roaning and merle are dominant so a purebred German Shepherd cannot produce these patterns without being crossed with a dog breed that carries the genes. As we can see from the images above, German Shepherds come in an array of coat colors and patterns—including saddle, blanket, bicolor, sable and solid colors. The organization does not, however, allow dogs of these colors to be shown in the conformation ring as these characteristics are faults according to the German Shepherd breed standard. Dogs carrying the liver gene or the recessive dilution gene that produces either Isabella or blue dogs also carry serious penalties in the show ring. Liver, blue and Isabella are not recognized because of the color of their leathers; and the solid whites are omitted due to the absence of black in the hairs on top of their backs. If you wish to campaign and show your dog in the conformation ring however, you will need to keep with animals with traditionally accepted colors and patterns. Dogs that are liver, blue or Isabella are severely penalized. Reverse Mask and Maskless German Shepherds The reverse mask aka wolf mask German shepherd is not a mix or hybrid, but rather a dog presenting a pattern that appears when both parents carry the gene for this coloring. These patterns date back to some of the earliest German Shepherd foundation dogs and still appear in certain lines, today. Rin-Tin-Tin was another reverse-mask without the stripe German Shepherd. The reverse mask can also present with or without the wolf stripe running down the nose. Some dogs are born with the wolf stripe but it fades with maturity—while others maintain the stripe. Maskless German Shepherds are dogs born with no mask, meaning their face coloring is the same as that of their body. Maskless dogs most commonly present as solid cream, tan, gray or silver. Both reverse mask and maskless German Shepherds are considered faulty lacking pigment for conformation purposes. Impression and Expression Impression — an idea, feeling, or opinion about a dog formed without conscious thought—or formed on the basis of little information. It is well balanced, with harmonious development of the forequarter and hindquarter. It looks substantial, giving the impression—both at rest and in motion—of muscular fitness and nimbleness. The ideal dog is stamped with a look of quality and nobility—difficult to define, but unmistakable when present. Aside from overall outline, size and strength of body, the head is the most prominent feature of a German Shepherd. It is here that we find expression. The head should convey strength of character, intelligence, confidence and nobility—even in the very young. In recent years, some show lines have developed a black-face mask in which the entire mantle and muzzle of the dog is predominately black. Any feature that detracts from the overall impression or expression of a dog can be less desirable. Black-faced German Shepherds have become very popular, but some traditionalists believe this pattern can in fact, change the expression of the dog—giving it an intimidating or less approachable expression. Most of the top VA dogs in Germany still carry the traditional mask pattern, but there are many up-and-coming black-faced dogs vying for the top spots. Another example of how color can impact expression is eye color. Light eyes on a German Shepherd overpower other aspects of the dog and change its expression from that of a traditional, loyal shepherd to that of a more elusive, mystic wolf. For this reason, the breed standard calls for the eyes of German Shepherds to be as dark as possible. In the show ring, light eye color—especially yellow hues—are penalized. Become a part of the GSDLiving experience. Upload a photo, pay tribute to your best friend