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By choosing a dog food with top ingredients, you can ensure your Frenchie receives the essential nutrients they need for a healthy and happy life. Salmon, poultry, and lamb are particularly beneficial sources of protein for French Bulldogs. Healthy Fats Healthy fats, such as omega-6 fatty acids, are an excellent source of nutrition for French Bulldogs. These fatty acids help maintain a healthy immune system, promote healthy skin, and result in a glossy coat. By providing your Frenchie with a diet rich in healthy fats, you can support their skin and coat health while helping to moderate inflammation. Beneficial Supplements In addition to high-quality protein and healthy fats, beneficial supplements like prebiotic fiber, probiotics, glucosamine, chondroitin, taurine, and omega fatty acids should be considered for French Bulldog dog food. Prebiotic fiber and probiotics are formulated to be gentle on the digestive system and promote digestion. Glucosamine and chondroitin are essential for joint health and support joint and cartilage health maintenance. Taurine and omega fatty acids have been found to be beneficial for cardiovascular health. Some dog foods that include these beneficial supplements are: Nutro Ultra Weight Management Dry Dog Food, which contains taurine for cardiovascular health Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Food — which provides complete and balanced nutrition, strengthens the immune system, encourages growth, and promotes balanced intestinal flora. By choosing a dog food with these beneficial supplements, you can provide your Frenchie with a well-rounded diet that supports their overall health. Potential Allergies and Sensitivities in French Bulldogs French Bulldogs may be prone to allergies and sensitivities , making it important to research the ingredients in their food and consult a vet if necessary. Some common sensitivities in French Bulldogs include corn, soy, beef, and dairy products. If your Frenchie shows signs of allergies or sensitivities, it is essential to evaluate the ingredients in their food and seek veterinary advice if needed. If you suspect your French Bulldog has a food allergy , you may want to consider a limited-ingredient dog food or a grain-free diet. By being aware of potential allergies and sensitivities and choosing the right dog food, you can help your Frenchie maintain a healthy and happy life. Feeding Guidelines for French Bulldogs Feeding guidelines for French Bulldogs include following label recommendations for feeding quantity and dividing daily servings into smaller meals for sustained energy supply. For French Bulldog puppies , it is recommended to provide them with 1. Puppies aged between 2 to 6 months should be supplied with three meals per day, whereas older puppies should be given two meals daily. Adult and senior French Bulldogs should also be fed two meals per day. By following these feeding guidelines, you can ensure that your Frenchie receives the right amount of food for their age, weight, and activity level, helping them maintain a healthy body weight and preventing potential health issues. Our Top Picks: Best Dog Foods for French Bulldogs in Our top picks for the best dog food for French Bulldogs in include a variety of options tailored to meet the unique nutritional needs of this charming breed. From weight management formulas to grain-free options and specialized diets for puppies and seniors, these dog foods offer the essential nutrients your Frenchie needs to thrive. Pet owners recommend this dog food for its weight maintenance benefits, quality ingredients, and multiple protein sources. Additionally, it is free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives and contains taurine, which acts as a natural antioxidant for your pup. By choosing the best overall dog food for your Frenchie, you can support their overall health and well-being. This dog food is specifically tailored for overweight and less active dogs, providing an optimal protein-to-fat ratio to help them reach their weight goals and maintain an energetic lifestyle. However, the benefits it offers in terms of weight management and affordability make it a great value option for French Bulldog owners. Food and food are both great options when it comes to feeding your French Bulldog puppies. Both provide a complete, balanced diet for their growth and development. Food provides complete and balanced nutrition, strengthens the immune system, encourages growth, and promotes balanced intestinal flora. It is also easy to digest for optimal nutrient absorption, making it an ideal choice for your Frenchie puppy. It is worth noting that some puppies may not take to Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Dry Dog Food, and it is more expensive than other dog food options due to its breed-specific nature. However, the benefits it offers in terms of nutrition and breed-specific formulation make it a top choice for French Bulldog puppies. It provides optimal nutrition to maintain their health and wellbeing. This specialized diet is formulated for French Bulldogs over the age of twelve months and includes L-carnitine and top-notch protein to sustain optimal muscle mass, probiotics to minimize intestinal fermentation, and a kibble design that is easy for Frenchies to consume and encourages chewing. While some dogs may not accept Royal Canin French Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food and it is costly, the benefits it provides in terms of nutrition and breed-specific formulation make it an ideal choice for senior French Bulldogs. Customers say their dogs love the taste of this food. Additionally, it is excellent for dogs with food allergies. No longer will they suffer from itchy paws or diarrhea. By choosing a dog food specifically designed for French Bulldogs with allergies, you can help alleviate their allergy symptoms and provide them with a diet that supports their overall health and well-being. Customers have reported that their dogs enjoy the flavor of Wellness Core Grain-Free Kibble and have maintained a healthy coat when consuming this food. By choosing a grain-free dog food option for your French Bulldog, you can support their overall health while accommodating their dietary needs. They come in a wide variety of flavors and are packed with lots of nutrition. Our dogs do deserve the best! Gradually introducing the new food over a period of days can help avoid these problems. If your dog experiences any digestive issues or stomach discomfort, consult your veterinarian for advice. Foods to avoid include chocolate, coffee, tea, grapes, and raisins. Instead, consider offering your Frenchie safe and healthy alternatives such as oatmeal, sweet potatoes, brown rice, fish, chicken, vegetables carrots, green beans, broccoli , and fruits apples, bananas, blueberries. It is always a good idea to consult your veterinarian if you are uncertain about what foods are appropriate for your French Bulldog. By providing your Frenchie with safe and healthy food alternatives, you can promote their overall health and well-being. Homemade Dog Food Options for French Bulldogs While commercially manufactured foods are generally recommended for French Bulldogs, some owners may prefer to prepare homemade dog food for their pets. Suitable ingredients for homemade dog food for French Bulldogs include cooked lean meats, cooked eggs, cooked vegetables, cooked grains, and healthy fats. If you choose to prepare homemade dog food for your French Bulldog, it is essential to ensure that the diet provides the necessary nutrients to support their health and well-being. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on creating a balanced and nutritious homemade diet for your Frenchie. Summary In conclusion, selecting the best dog food for your Frenchie is an essential part of supporting their overall health and well-being. By understanding their unique nutritional needs, choosing high-quality ingredients, and providing a diet tailored to their age, weight, and activity level, you can ensure your Frenchie thrives. With the right nutrition, your Frenchie will enjoy a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life. Frequently Asked Questions What are Frenchies allergic to? French can suffer from environmental allergies such as dust mites, pollens, molds, and grass as well as food allergies such as corn, soy, beef, and dairy products. Taking steps to reduce exposure to allergens can help keep your Frenchie healthy and comfortable. This could include things like keeping the house clean, using air purifiers, and avoiding areas with high pollen. What should I feed my French Bulldog puppy? As the owner of a French Bulldog puppy, it is important to ensure your pup is getting the right nutrients. Feed them high-quality, nutritionally complete puppy food and, if desired, lean raw meat to provide them with the balanced diet they need. When he's not spending time with his furry best friend "Freddy II", you can find him reading up on the latest Frenchie trends or exploring new parks and hiking trails with his dapper little Frenchie by his side. Whether you're a seasoned Frenchie owner or just starting your journey, Freddy is excited to share his experiences and insights with you through his articles on this website. Although certain health issues that French bulldogs may experience are congenital and beyond our control, others can be influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors, such as diet. Some of the most common health issues faced by French Bulldog include the following: Food allergies. Certain ingredients in their food can cause allergies in French Bulldogs. This occurs when the immune system of some dogs identifies a specific protein, carbohydrate, or other ingredients in their diet as foreign and reacts to it as if it were a harmful substance. Food allergies in French Bulldogs may present as dry, itchy skin, ears, or paws. However, intolerances do not involve the immune system but can lead to vomiting or diarrhea. We highly recommend conducting an at-home dog food allergy test like the 5Strands kit. This particular kit can test for up to ingredients and determine which ones may cause food intolerance in your dog. Once you receive the results, you can use the list to avoid dog food formulas that contain potential allergens. Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS. French Bulldogs have short nasal passages and a compacted airway, which can lead to difficulty breathing, especially in hot or humid weather. Skin problems. Due to their wrinkles and folds, French Bulldogs are susceptible to skin infections, allergies, and dermatitis. French Bulldogs are prone to skinfold dermatitis, a skin infection caused by the accumulation of moisture and bacteria in their skin folds. Ear infections. French Bulldogs have long, floppy ears that trap moisture and dirt, making them prone to ear infections and ear mites. This condition is common in French Bulldogs due to their protruding eyes, which can easily get scratched or infected. Cherry eye. This is a condition where the third eyelid prolapses and becomes visible, causing redness and irritation. It is common in French Bulldogs due to their prominent eyes. Cleft palate. This is a congenital disability where the roof of the mouth does not form properly, causing difficulty in eating and breathing. It is less common than other health conditions in French Bulldogs. Heat sensitivity. French Bulldogs have difficulty regulating their body temperature, so they are prone to heat stroke and dehydration in hot weather. Hip dysplasia. This common skeletal disease affects many dog breeds, including French Bulldogs. It causes the hip joints to deteriorate, leading to pain and loss of function. French Bulldogs are also prone to spinal problems such as herniated discs, which can cause pain and paralysis. French Bulldogs need a balanced and nutritious diet with the energy and nutrients they need to stay active and healthy. If a French Bulldog is not getting the proper nutrients from its food, it may become lethargic, lazy, and less interested in exercise and play. On the other hand, if a French Bulldog is overfed or consumes low-quality food, it may become overweight, which can also reduce its activity level. Obesity in French Bulldogs can lead to various health problems, such as joint pain and heart disease, further decreasing their activity level. Therefore, providing French Bulldogs with high-quality, balanced, and appropriate food portions is crucial to ensure they have the energy and nutrients they need to stay active and healthy. Regular exercise and playtime can also help maintain their activity level and overall health. French Bulldog Puppies. Require a diet that is higher in calories and protein to support their growth and development. They also need a balanced calcium and phosphorus diet for healthy bone growth. Feeding high-quality puppy food formulated explicitly for French Bulldog puppies can help ensure they receive the necessary nutrients during this crucial stage. Adult French Bulldogs. Require a diet that is lower in calories and protein to maintain their weight and prevent obesity. They also need a balanced diet of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to support their overall health and energy needs. Senior French Bulldogs. Senior dogs may require a diet lower in calories and fat to maintain a healthy weight and higher fiber to support digestive health. Senior dog foods often contain joint supplements to help mobility and joint health. French Bulldogs can have sensitive digestive systems. Look for a dog food that adds probiotics to its formula. Dog probiotics support a healthy digestive system and immune system. Digestibility: French Bulldogs can be prone to digestive issues, so look for dog food that is minimally processed, such as fresh dog food or homemade dog food for French Bulldogs. Lower-quality kibble may contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and other ingredients that can be harder to digest and may cause digestive upset in some dogs. French Bulldogs are prone to eye problems like conjunctivitis and cherry eye, which can cause inflammation and irritation. Antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E can help protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals. Look for dog food containing these vitamins, such as carrots or sweet potatoes. Limited ingredient options. If your French Bulldog has a history of food allergies or gastrointestinal disorders, consider choosing a limited-ingredient dog food that eliminates potential allergens like corn, wheat, and soy. Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids can help support healthy skin and coat, essential for French Bulldogs prone to skin infections and allergies. Look for dog foods that contain sources of omega-3s, such as salmon, flaxseed, or fish oil. Small kibble size. French Bulldogs have small mouths or suffer from cleft palate and may have difficulty chewing larger kibble, so choose a dog food with small, bite-sized pieces. Joint support. French Bulldogs are prone to hip dysplasia and spinal problems, so choosing dog food with ingredients that support joint health is essential. Look for foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin, which can help support joint health and mobility. Moisture content. French Bulldogs are prone to dehydration and heat stroke, so choose a dog food that has a high moisture content or add wet food to their diet. This can help keep them hydrated and healthy. Chapter 2: The Reviews. There are hundreds of different options on the market all claiming to be the best, no wonder our Frenchie parents constantly turn to us asking what they should feed their puppies. The usual nutritional needs of French Bulldog A well-balanced Frenchie diet should contain the correct amounts of macronutrients: water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. However, this is only a general guideline, and a more accurate calculation can be made based on specific factors. For instance, the age and activity level of your dog are essential factors to consider. Hormonal changes can cause neutered dogs to become less active than their fertile counterparts. Store-bought vs. Most commercial dog foods and canned goods contain preservatives, flavor enhancers, coloring, and other additives. Instead of real meat, they often contain animal by-products or meat meal, which can cause allergic reactions in some dogs. Subscribe to our weekly blog newsletter: Subscribe to our blog newsletter! First name Email When you cook food for your dogs, you can be sure of what goes into their bowl. Finally, homemade meals can prolong the average French Bulldog lifespan , so we definitely recommend homemade food! Why is it so hard to find the right dog food? Feeding is an evergreen topic among Frenchie parents in our Facebook group. They know they should feed their puppy with high-quality premium dog food to keep their baby healthy and fit, but they are left puzzled when they see the plethora of different choices. The answer is actually quite simple: every Frenchie is different and what works for one puppy may unfortunately cause problems for the other. The best French Bulldog breeders will always give you advice on how to continue feeding your puppy once you welcome them home. So what are the most important things to consider while trying to find the perfect food for your Frenchie? Read on to find out! The quality of dog food is always determined by the percentage of its protein content, in other words, the amount of meat or fish it contains. So what should you pay attention to when looking at the ingredients list? This could be beef, lamb, salmon, or any other type of meat. The list usually ends with some sort of animal fat, vegetables, and fruits. Jasper, available French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Any other ingredient not mentioned above is only included to increase the volume of the dog food and to ensure the most economical production possible. So, if you see that a food contains an unrealistic amount of filler ingredients like wheat, corn, or chemical preservatives, it is definitely not a suitable and healthy choice for your Frenchie. Dog foods without chicken and grains A question that always comes up when choosing the right food for a Frenchie is whether it has to be chicken or grain-free. For that reason, we usually recommend giving chicken and grain-free food right from the start to avoid any possible problems. Makayla, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies That means that if you look at the list of ingredients, you can find companies whose food meets all the criteria we mentioned above and is much more affordable. Like with so many things, the name is not everything! On the other hand, if the kibble is too large they will have difficulties consuming the food. The flavor of the dog food When looking at dog foods, you can choose from lots of different flavors like a lamb, fish, beef, duck, etc. If one of the foods from a particular brand works fine for your Frenchie, the flavors can and should be changed as long as they have the same nutritional values. A varied diet is important not only for humans but dogs as well, not to mention that your fur baby will be very happy to taste some new flavors. The stool of your Frenchie A very important criterion and perhaps the best indicator of the given food is suitable for your Frenchie is their stool. A healthy stool should always be completely solid, which means you can easily collect it with a bag. You should always ensure a smooth transition by gradually mixing in more and more of the new food with the old to avoid any dietary issues. Signs of a food allergy in your Frenchie We have already mentioned that Frenchies tend to be allergic to chicken, but what are the actual signs of a food allergy? The most common symptoms include scratching, hair loss, dull lifeless fur, inflamed eyes and ears often with some discharge, paw licking, swelling, but also vomiting, and loose stools. You may not notice all of these and the degree to which they occur may also vary. Any of these symptoms indicate that an immediate change of diet is necessary, about which you should always consult your vet first. Eating a bit more slowly and with less appetite are usually signs telling you to cut out the middle meal. As for the amount, nice-looking French Bulldogs are a bit stockier, so you should always increase and lower the amount of their food with that in mind. Read our article to learn more about maintaining a healthy body weight for your Frenchie. Odie, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Special recommendations by TomKings Puppies The best food for French Bulldog with a sensitive stomach For dogs with sensitive stomachs, we always recommend home-cooked food , so you can be sure of what your dog is eating. However, it is important to ensure that the transition from store-bought to home-cooked dog food is gradual. Consultation with a veterinarian can also be helpful in determining the best wet food for a French Bulldog. It is essential to choose a high-quality brand that uses real meat and avoids fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. Look for products that are labeled as complete and balanced, which means they contain all the essential nutrients your French Bulldog needs in the right proportions. The best dry food for French Bulldogs Although cheaper dry food may appear to be similar to premium brands based on the label, there are significant differences in the quantity and quality of the ingredients. Additionally, we advise you to switch to adult food at the age of months. We always inform new parents of Tomkings puppies of the brands we used to feed the pups and we recommend to continue using the same brand for some time. The best raw food for Frenchies There are several types of raw food diets for dogs, including the Prey Model Diet, the B. To ensure that TomKings puppies receive only the highest quality food, we continuously evaluate available options and test the latest trends. We consult with a panel of experts and experienced puppy parents within the TomKings Frenchie Family, and we are proud to recommend the B. Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods diet. Consulting with a veterinarian is also recommended to determine the best course of action. In general, weight management dog foods can be a good option for overweight French Bulldogs. These foods are formulated to be lower in calories and fat while still providing high-quality protein and other essential nutrients. Avoid feeding table scraps or high-calorie treats, and make sure to provide plenty of opportunities for exercise and play. In some cases, a prescription diet recommended by a veterinarian may be necessary to help your French Bulldog achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Best food for French Bulldogs with skin allergies If your French Bulldog has skin allergies, it is important to choose a diet that is specially formulated to help support skin health and minimize potential allergens. Consultation with a veterinarian is also recommended to determine the best course of action. Some high-quality dog food brands offer special formulas that are designed for dogs with skin allergies. These foods typically contain limited ingredients and exclude common allergens such as wheat, soy, chicken, and dairy products. Instead, they may use alternative protein sources such as fish or venison and may contain added omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to help support skin health. Some veterinarians may also recommend prescription diets that are formulated specifically to manage skin allergies in dogs. These diets may contain hydrolyzed proteins, which have been broken down into smaller components to minimize the risk of an allergic reaction. Even though processed dog foods might not look healthy to us, they actually contain all the nutrients that Frenchies need to stay healthy. Home-made and raw diets like B. Should I opt for dry kibble or canned wet food? Wet foods are of course more appealing to dogs, which means they get used to them easily and will not want to eat dry food again. If your Frenchie is a picky eater you can mix the dry and wet food but never give them the latter only. We recommend wet food for dogs who are ill and have no appetite. How much time does my puppy need to adjust to a new food? At what age should I switch to adult food for my French Bulldog? We usually recommend switching to adult food at the age of months old. If you notice that your puppy looks a bit chubbier or bigger compared to other Frenchies you can make this change even sooner. What is the best food for a Frenchie puppy? The best choice for your Frenchie puppy is to continue providing the same brand the breeder used to provide. This should be a high-quality brand that uses real meat and avoids fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. What is the best food for an adult French Bulldog? You have several options. You can buy high-quality wet and dry god food at your local pet store or if you want more control over what goes into the bowl, you can feed your adult Frenchie with home-cooked food. Raw diets like B. The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and their customers, and show puppies from their breed. Check their available French Bulldog puppies , or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article. May 31, Are you head over heels for your adorable French Bulldog puppy? These little bundles of joy bring so much laughter and love into our lives. Best Food for your French Bulldog puppy According to vets and French Bulldog experts in the US, the best bulldog diet should contain proteins, carbohydrates as well as an equal amount of healthy fats for brain power and energy. Just like humans, your dog could be allergic to some kind of food, such as corn or soy, but in most cases, they are actually allergic to fillers found in processed food. These fillers are used to add mass to the product, but have no nutritional value and are difficult to digest. The best way to save your dog from this kind of suffering is avoiding fillers and giving him whole food ingredients. These budget-friendly choices mostly trigger allergies and contribute to various health problems. Having earned the highest of all ratings, NutriSource is a great choice for puppies! Contains all the essential nutrients for the optimum health of your pet. Contains no animal by-products, whole corn, artificial additives or preservatives. Fromm Besides containing nearly all of the essential nutrients, the fact that you can get grain-free varieties and non-grain-free varieties is great. Salmon oil and probiotics have been added to aid digestion and promote good health. No corn and no wheat. Highest consumer ratings!

YouTube Before you go, check this out! We have lots more on the site to show you. You've only seen one page. Check out this post which is one of the most popular of all time. One of the best things you can do is use French Bulldog teething toys. They will help to alleviate the pain and discomfort from chewing, and possibly even distract them from chewing your valuable stuff! Below you can see links to the best-rated French Bulldog puppy teething toys that you can buy on Amazon. We personally love the Kong range. They really helped Claude when teething, and are used by millions of dog owners all around the world. Kong Classic view on Amazon The Kong is possibly the most popular dog chewing toy in the world. We used one of these as a teething toy when Claude was a puppy. You can put treats in there, and it will leave your dog entertained for hours. You can also chuck it in the freezer for 30 minutes if your dog has really bad teething. It will help relieve the gums and teeth. The manufacturer states the key ring chews encourages non-destructive chewing habits. The material is ideal for teething puppies, and each key has a slightly different feel to it. Nylabone Peanut Butter Flavour view on Amazon Dogs love the taste of peanut butter so this French Bulldog puppy teething toy is ingenious. You can place it in the freezer first and then give it to your unhappy puppy. The coolness will relieve pain quickly, giving them some relief from the teething phase. That guide contains an overview of the teething phases with everything you can do to help your Frenchie at this painful and frustrating time. We are the proud parents of Claude the French Bulldog. This is an affiliate advertising program that is designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees and revenue by advertising and linking to amazon. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Pin 11 Shares Rawhide is an incredibly popular dog chew that can go a long way to stopping your favorite Frenchie from chewing on items around the home that you would rather they keep out of their mouths. These topics have risen to the fore in recent years, with some people now saying rawhide is dangerous for dogs. Read on to find out the reasons why we no longer let our French Bulldog eat rawhide, and what you should do if your Frenchie has swallowed the bones. Can French Bulldogs have rawhide bones? French Bulldogs can have rawhide bones, but there are risks of choking and digestive blockages if the rawhide is swallowed. Rawhide can also produce allergic reactions in some Frenchies, and there are small risks of toxic contamination in the bones too. Millions of dogs the world over chew rawhide on a daily basis, so in terms of risks, they are very small. To do that, you should weigh up the risks versus the benefits and then make your own choice. However, there was one thing that I read which made my mind up for me a few months ago. It was on a Facebook post from a vet who was discussing whether rawhide safe for French bulldogs. They then run the risk of swallowing. Sometimes that can be completely accidental, just with one breath being taken. Once the French Bulldog swallows the chewed rawhide bone it can obstruct the airway, sometimes leading to a fatality. But is rawhide really safe for French Bulldogs? While the risks are rather low, there are still some safety hazards that come with these treats; including choking hazards, bacterial infections, digestive irritation, and even allergies. The risks and dangers of rawhide to Frenchies Unfortunately, there are always going to be risks with dogs putting anything in their mouths. Whilst it is impossible and unhealthy to keep them from chewing, there are ways to make sure that your dog is safe and healthy. Here are the three main risks associated with rawhide bone chewing that I have since researched online. Choking hazard Unlike bone and other hard things that dogs find to chew on, rawhide is designed to soften up as it is chewed. However, an overzealous Frenchie can literally bite off more than they can chew. The larger the piece of rawhide that your dog bites off, the harder it can be to swallow and can result in it getting caught in the oesophagus or digestive tract. While sometimes a blockage can be removed by a vet, it can require expensive and stressful surgery with unresolved blockages even posing a risk of death. There are several ways to help stop your French Bulldog from choking on rawhide. This include separating it from other dogs to stop it from eating too fast to avoid competition , supervising them when they are eating it, and taking the rawhide away from them once it is small enough for them to swallow whole. When taking any treat away from your dog, it is important that you exchange it for another toy or treat, as this stops them from becoming possessive over their treats in the future which can lead to biting and jumping up. Bacteria and contamination Because rawhide is made of meat mainly dried animal skin , they can suffer from the same kind of bacterial contamination as all other kinds of food, including Salmonella and E. There is the small risk that your Frenchie could suffer a bacterial infection. To prevent this, make sure the rawhide you buy is made within the country you reside in. That way you increase the chances that it is fresh and follows high safety standards. However, because Salmonella and E. Coli, as well as other bacteria, can also affect humans, it is recommended that you keep the rawhide away from any food preparation areas. Also make sure to wash your hands after handling the rawhide. In simple terms, some dogs have allergies to rawhide. My French Bulldog swallowed rawhide… Disclaimer: I am not a vet. All the opinion here is based on online research and my own personal views. If you are in any way concerned, you should use your own common sense. Soft and chewed up rawhide should in most cases digest and break down in their stomach eventually. Symptoms to watch out for If your dog shows any of these symptoms, take the rawhide away and speak to your vet: Gagging and repeated swallowing Sudden loss of appetite or weight loss Regurgitation or vomiting Lack of energy or any sudden change in temperament or behavior Fever Signs of pain If your Frenchie is showing any of these signs even if they have not had any rawhide it is always recommended that you take them to see a vet as soon as possible. If you leave any symptoms unresolved or unchecked, this can lead to further issues and even the possibility of death. How to keep them safe Always make sure that you supervise your Frenchie when they are chewing on rawhide or a similar chew. You will then be aware of how much of it they are swallowing and if they are in any difficulty. The general rule of thumb with anything related to your dog is: ask your vet. Like with human health, Googling an answer will only get you so far. The benefits of rawhide to Frenchies For complete impartiality, I also wanted to share with you some of the benefits of chewing rawhide. As I explained earlier, whilst there are risks, they are probably very small given how many dogs have this treat each day. There is a reason they are so popular with dogs and dog owners alike. Chewing is a natural instinct for all dogs, especially Frenchies; acting as a stress and anxiety reliever that helps to keep your dog calm on quiet days in between walks, as well as exercising their powerful jaw muscles. You may not realize it, but dental hygiene is not just important for you, but also for your dog. Foul breath can be a sign of poor dental hygiene, including cavities, tooth rot, and even gum disease, all of which can cost you a lot in vets bills to put right as well as causing stress and discomfort for your dog. Gum disease is actually 5 times more common in dogs than it is in humans. However, it has also been proven that dogs that chew on rawhide, bones, and toys have less plague build up on their teeth see some recommended toys , with the chewing helping dislodge food from their teeth before it can settle. In terms of entertainment, restless dogs often find relief in chewing on your favorite pair of shoes or an expensive piece of furniture; but a rawhide or other dog chew provides a far tastier alternative that keeps them from spoiling your belongings. If you are unsure what kind of rawhide to get your French Bulldog, asking the owner of your local pet store can prove a fountain of knowledge, they know their main clientele better than anyone and usually have the right product for all sizes of dog. Related questions What can I give my French Bulldog instead of rawhide? If you are worried about your Frenchie having rawhide, or if they have had issues with it in the past, then there are many rawhide alternatives available for you. Can you give French Bulldogs rawhide to eat? There are hundreds of dog chews on the market, each with their own health-benefits, flavors and ingredients. It is best to shop around, see what is best for your dog and if they enjoy it. However, I have put a list together of my recommended Frenchie teething and chew toys. Take a look at that to see which rawhide alternatives are popular right now. Every dog is different, so testing out a variety can go a long way. Always check the calorie content and sugars, so you know how many to give your dog and how often, so that they remain healthy. Frozen carrots are a peculiar alternative, but they are a great choice especially for teething puppies although be sure to wash them before freezing, and make sure that they are full-sized rather than baby carrots, as they are a choking hazard. Bully sticks are made of beef, are highly digestible and also help with oral health, but they do contain more calories than rawhide. Is rawhide digestible? Rawhide is mainly made of the inner layer of animal skin, often from a cow or horse, meaning that they are designed to be fully edible. Most rawhide will be easily digested and pass through the dog without any issues. However, as mentioned above, larger pieces can get caught in the digestive tract so it is recommended that you make sure you supervise your French Bulldog when it has a rawhide so that you are aware of how much it is chewing. When the rawhide gets small enough for it to fit entirely inside its mouth and potentially be swallowed whole, take the rawhide away in exchange for another treat or toy. What chews are safe for Frenchies? The dog-chew market is enormous, with all different kinds of chews available to you including edible chews, rubber chews, and rope chews. However, harder and inedible chews may be the route to go, but always be sure to keep an eye on them if they do have an edible chew. Handy Hint: Take a look at my recommended Frenchie gear pages to see what toys and chews we recommend. Bones may seem to be the classic choice, but before you throw whatever leftovers you have at your hound, do your research first. Cooked bones, poultry bones, and pork bones should NOT be given to your dog, as the bones can splinter and create dangerous shards that can cause damage and be a major choking hazard. After it has had it for about ten minutes, take it away and store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for tomorrow. However, it is best to dispose of it after a few days, to prevent bacterial contamination, and also keep it away from other raw meat and food. If you are ever unsure of what to give your dog, speak to your vet. What age can Frenchie puppies have rawhide? Puppies typically begin teething around 12 to 16 weeks old, so before that a rawhide will probably not really do much for them. Again, as with all dogs, keep an eye on your puppy when they are eating the rawhide and always take it away once it is small enough for them to swallow. If your puppy is taking larger bites, perhaps consider a softer option to prevent choking. Conclusion If your Frenchie likes to bite off large chunks of treats, or even just has a history of digestive issues or diarrhea, then I would not recommend you let them have rawhide. If you are unsure of what kind of treat is safe to give your dog, talk to your vet or local pet store and tell them what kind of dog you have as well as their size and any issues they may have had with chewable treats in the past. Ultimately though, the choice is yours. We made a decision to not give our French Bulldog rawhide anymore. Known as an affectionate loyal dog, these dogs can often be found in the home of city- dwellers worldwide. They are also an incredibly intelligent breed and their alertness makes them an excellent watchdog, provided you train diligently with the best training treats. Because of their natural body built and nutritional needs, it is vital to provide your bulldog with a balanced diet. Since these pups love to run around and live a fun lifestyle, look for products that are high in protein and low in fat, like our Pawstruck Lamb Ears , to ensure your pups have all the energy and fuel they need without packing on any unwanted fluff. In addition, Frenchies are prone to obesity and skin allergies. Unfortunately, their sweet squashed face means they need smaller pieces that are easy to swallow, ideally with low calories per treat. In addition, keep an eye out for dog products that contain wheat and corn, which trigger an allergic reaction. Avoid overly processed foods and simple carbs which can cause excess inflammation in the joints and add to unwanted body fat. That's why we took the guesswork out of our product inventory and rounded up the best dog treats for French Bulldogs. You can rest assured that all of these make great choices for your precious pooch! That's why we offer auto delivery on most of our French Bulldog products: to help you save time while enjoying your favorite products. Just indicate how often you want us to deliver your products and we'll make sure they get there on time! We also are proud to offer a bulk discount on many of our dog products to help you save more on large orders. Buy in bulk and save! I've found the best prices on bully sticks and other all-natural chews at Pawstruck. The braided bully sticks are insane! The only thing we have to worry about is keeping our puppy from hoarding all the chews and making him share.I have to play referee to make sure he plays nice with his fur brother! In Conclusion On the lookout for the best chew treats for french bulldogs? It is Key essentials oils. You can also find these at dog fairs or through online retailers. These bones are great for dogs to chew on, it keeps their teeth clean and even helps with teething. If you have a puppy you may want to make sure they get the proper teeth cleaning just like us, oral hygiene is very important! I love giving my own dog bones as a treat, usually with peanut butter spread on them. French Bulldogs are known for their love of chewing on everything. Whether your French Bulldog occupies his time with the insertion of a toy in a chew treat, or if he prefers the chew treat itself, a good chew is what you need. Chew treats can help reduce boredom, prevent destructive behavior including separation anxiety , and aid in keeping their teeth clean by promoting good dental hygiene. The best chew treats for french bulldogs are available and may consist of different ingredients such as rawhide, bones, and antlers. There are many benefits to chewing; it cleans their teeth, provides a great source of exercise, and helps reduce stress, but more importantly for many, a chew treat is an incredibly effective form of entertainment. It is gluten- and grain-free, making it easy for a French bulldog to digest. French Bulldogs enjoy the taste of this treat with chicken again making it very delicious. They also contain healthy ingredients like chicken breasts, which provide plenty of nutrients for my dog. The treats are packed with all the needed nutrients for a dog to have and are perfect for any breed of dog that may eat them. This formula adds the perfect blend of these ingredients to make our treats irresistibly tasty. Dogs love them! Rawhide is a healthy treat your pet will love. These bones are easy to digest and make a great snack for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Made without wheat, soy, corn, artificial colors, and flavors, these treats can also be used for training French Bulldog puppies. These treats have been tried and tested by real dog owners. And they work great with puppies too! Zesty Paw is a supplement made specifically for French bulldogs, who suffer from many allergies and health issues. This supplement can help alleviate several common health issues that affect the French bulldog breed. Zesty Paws allergy immune supplements for dogs are treats that are designed to help your French bulldog with allergies. Zesty Paws Allergy Immune Supplements for Dogs come in a mouth-watering chicken and salmon recipe, which makes them easier to feed than other joint supplements. The grain-free treats are filled with real beef, as well as other natural ingredients, so they taste good and provide your pup with a yummy snack. The treats are low in calories and bite-sized, making them easy to deliver while training. These bites are free of any artificial ingredients. They are full of protein, omega fatty acids, and fiber and have a yummy flavor your dog will love. My dogs took to them right away and I found that they worked great as treats for training when we went on our daily walks. Owners found that small treats were ideal for feeding their dogs during training, as well as forgiving them when needed to get them to lose a few pounds. Owners who bought these treats were pleased with the results, reporting that their dogs loved the flavor and size of these chewy morsels. Many owners found them to be perfect for training, as well as for individuals who were trying to lose weight. Other owners told us that they loved the fact that these dog treats contain natural ingredients, feeling that they gave them an added boost of confidence in the quality. They are real bone marrow, which makes them not only delicious but also healthier for the dog than other snacks. They are great because they can be given to Frenchies every day if necessary, and they are said to give the dogs extra energy. The reason is they are in the market for a long time, and many owners buy them because they are in love with the taste. These treats are made from real bone marrow, which adds to their yummy taste! And at the same time, these treats are some of the tastiest on the market — perfect for pups with a great life ahead of them! These treats are packed with flavor, making them great for training and rewarding my pups. My dogs enjoyed these treats, and they were eager for more each time I brought out the bag. Dogs adore these treats and would rather eat them than their standard dog food. They are a great training treat, and as they are made from organic ingredients, suitable for dogs with sensitive tummies. Owners found that their dogs loved these treats. Many of them liked that the treats were soft, so they could easily be broken into smaller pieces. These chicken- and vegetable-flavored dog treats are safe alternatives to rawhide chews, which can be harmful to dogs. My dogs loved these chews, and they were fairly long-lasting. Many owners have found these to be a great, safe alternative to rawhide. Many dogs love these chews and get very excited when given them, even dogs who are usually picky about what they eat. Dog owners generally feel that the Pet Botanics dental chews are a tasty, healthy treat for their dogs. They need to be healthy and tasty for your dog as well as easy for them to chew on without splintering or causing their teeth to break off. There are many different types of dog treats available today that make eating fun for your pet! Some dogs like crunchy treats while others prefer soft ones which makes it important to find out what type of treatment works best for your pet. Here are some things to look for in the best chew treats for french bulldogs The main ingredient should be real meat, preferably from poultry. This will ensure that the treat is nutritious and safe for your dog. These fillers can cause allergies and digestive problems in dogs, especially those with sensitive stomachs. Be careful with treats that contain soy products or gluten as these can be harmful if eaten by dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs. Look at the nutritional information on the package before buying a treat for your French Bulldog. No Artificial Flavors or Colors: Many treats contain artificial flavors and colors which can cause allergic reactions in some dogs. Even though these additives may not be harmful in small amounts, they can still cause problems when eaten regularly over time. Look for products made with natural ingredients instead! Small size: Frenchies have tiny mouths, so the treats you choose must be small enough for them to eat without chewing them too much first. Taste: Some dogs like one type of treatment more than others, so try offering a variety until you find something your pup likes! The answer to this question depends on a lot of factors. But for the average French Bulldog, a handful of healthy treats a day can be just what he needs to make mealtime more enjoyable. And no one wants that! In Conclusion In sum, checking the ingredients is especially important with dog treats. Does your pet chew rawhide? Just be sure to monitor their consumption because they can cause intestinal problems in some dogs. Chewy treats are always a great choice, too. Anything To Add About: Like this article? Have a point of view to share? Let us know! Share your training tricks below! Please feel free to ask any questions you may have about purchasing a puppy, owning a dog, training, or anything else related to pets.

As mentioned, some breeding purists denounce any Labradors other than the three classics and believe that the emergence of other colors is due to cross breeding with Weimaraners. However, no solid evidence supports this theory, and a quick glance at the science reveals that the unique Silver Lab puppies, and their Charcoal and Champagne counterparts, come from a rare combination of recessive genes. A big D is considered dominant, while a little d is recessive. This is why the AKC allows Silver Labs to be fully registered as Chocolate Labs — they come from pureblood, they just have recessive genes. These are even more rare than the trendy Silver Labradors. Hunters loved them for their innate ability to retrieve ducks and after a whole century of developing the breed and meticulously recording characteristics of each litter, Labradors were formally registered with the AKC in .Most kennels strived to breed Black Lab litters, but records include documentation of tan, red and brindles, in addition to the traditional Yellow and Chocolate Labs. But Silver Labs? No one seems to know quite where they come from. They emerged seemingly from nowhere, only adding to their allure. This is because there are only 7 traceable bloodlines. The gene pool is small, and most responsible breeders only allow their female Labrador to produce litters before retiring her. Basic supply and demand keeps the price of Silver Labs very high. There are however, specific rescues geared toward finding the perfect home for Labrador Retrievers of all ages and coat colors. You may find your new Silver Lab puppy through an online search of local rescue organizations. Decade of Friendship: Labrador Life Expectancy When compared to other Labradors, Silver Labs have a typical life expectancy of years - with an average of .Labs generally are known for their friendly, gentle personalities and ability to bond with multiple family members. They are very patient and typically get along well with children and other pets. When socialized from a young age, they enjoy interacting with the whole family. Silver Labradors are well suited for an active household, as they thrive with at least 60 minutes a day of vigorous walking, running, playing, and swimming. As they are natural born swimmers and retrievers, Silver Labs will be happy romping and splashing through water, or chasing a tennis ball. Many owners love to combine the two! Start by finding a clean, safe source of water for your new pup. Then, let him practice his retrieving skills by tossing a ball or other toy that floats. Watch as your new furry friend blossoms into his instincts! Be sure to keep your new Lab puppy physically and mentally stimulated to avoid destructive behaviors like chewing. Puppy puzzles are a great way to provide entertainment without getting outside. The first step in avoiding an unexpected health concern is buying a Lab puppy from a reputable breeder. Still, any Labrador can develop these conditions. Overtime, this condition leads to pain, lameness, and even an altered gait. Though it sometimes requires corrective surgery, if caught early, it can usually be managed with medication and physical therapy exercises. Due to their diluted genes, Silver Labs have additional health risks. Color Dilution Alopecia CDA is a genetic disorder that causes flaky and itchy skin, as well as hair loss. The first sign is thinning coat, which usually occurs at 6 months old. You can also help by providing your puppy with a healthy, balanced diet rich in essential fatty acids and Vitamin A. Coconut Oil is a great supportive supplement! If there is food around, they will find it and eat it so keeping food secure is a must! Adult Labs require between and calories per day from a high-quality, protein-rich food. Most vets recommend splitting their daily needs into two meals, to make digestion easier. Both male and female Labradors are prone to unwanted weight gain and obesity. Monitoring their food and treat intake is essential to raising a healthy dog. Training Tips: Best ways to Teach a Labrador Labradors are a national favorite because of their trainability. They respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement, and reward-based methods, especially when rewarded with food or treats. However, they can get bored easily and training sessions should be kept short, but frequent. As mentioned above, they are highly food-motivated and should easily learn basic commands like sit, down, shake, stay, etc. Just remember to account for the extra calories! Their unique color is due to a simple combination of genes. They love to play and will live best in an active family where they are socialized from a young age. So what do you think? Are you team Silver Lab? Let us know! Conclusion: Why the Silver Labrador Retriever? How much does a Silver Labrador Retriever cost? If you find one for adoption, the cost will be lower. What Is a Silver Labrador Retriever? Silver Labs are Labrador Retrievers with gray, silver coats and haunting grayish eyes. Silver Labradors most likely developed from a recessive trait found in some Chocolate Labradors. However, there are many who believe that Silver Labradors are not true Labrador Retrievers at all. Major breed clubs including the Labrador Retriever Club Inc. Frances O. In this section, we will explore the most common Silver Labrador Retriever traits. However, please note that not all Silver Labs will be identical to each other in terms of personality. There will be differences between individual dogs. Still, this list will give you a basic sense of what to expect from the Silver Labrador Retriever temperament. Sporting Dogs are bred to work in partnership with humans as hunting companions, pointers, flushers, and retrievers. Therefore, these types of dogs thrive when they have a purpose or a job to do. Silver Labrador Retrievers are very active dogs, especially when they are young. They need an ample amount of daily exercise as well as mental enrichment. If you leave an energetic lab pup home alone for hours on end, be prepared to come home to evidence of destructive behavior such as chewing or digging. A young lab needs about an hour of vigorous exercise per day. If you are not able to provide that level of exercise, consider adopting an older Lab or Silver Lab mix. Silver Labrador Retriever exercise can include activities such as hiking, biking, swimming, or romping at the dog park. Doggie Daycare is another great way for Labradors to fulfill their daily exercise needs. Labradors were bred to work in tandem with their human guardians out in the field. Therefore, they are very attentive and eager to please. They may not be quite as clever as some of the herding breeds such as the Border Collie or the Australian Shepherd , but they are still very smart. They can be trained for all types of jobs including hunting, search and rescue, and police work. Silver Labs tend to get along well with other animals and children, especially with proper socialization. Of course, it is still advisable to supervise your Silver Labrador anytime he or she interacts with kids or other animals. Photo by Nilda Guzman These dogs are notorious for getting into mischief when left alone. Crate training is highly recommended, especially for puppies and young labs. Labradors are especially obsessed with finding food! Labs love to eat. Do not leave food accessible on countertops and make sure your trash can has a dog-proof lid. Joyful, Goofy, Fun One of the most beloved components of the Silver Labrador Retriever temperament is the joyful nature of this breed. Labs are happy, silly, fun-loving dogs. They enjoy romping in the snow and swimming in the summertime. Silver Labs love to play! They are especially fond of playing fetch with tennis balls for hours on end. If you add a Lab to your home, your home will soon be filled with laughter! Labrador Retrievers originated in Newfoundland , Canada. They were bred to work alongside hunters and fishermen as water retrievers. Their popularity began to soar in the s as specimens spread to Europe and America. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in .The Lab has held the highest-ranking since .The American Kennel Club recognizes three color varieties: black, yellow and chocolate. The Silver Coat Coloration Photo by Nilda Guzman The silver coloration first appeared within the last few decades and has caused great controversy within the Labrador community. It is not recognized as a distinct coloration. The silver color has become incredibly popular and desired because it is attractive and rare. Consumers are willing to pay exorbitant amounts of money for a silver lab puppy. Respected, responsible breeders discourage the practice of breeding specifically for a physical attribute. They argue that a good breeder should always prioritize health, function, temperament, and the improvement of the breed. When breeders are breeding solely for appearance, health and temperament are inevitably compromised. Size and Appearance The Silver Lab has the same general appearance as any other Labrador, other than the color. They are the same size and shape as other Labs. For example, the Silver Labrador Retriever weight range is between 55 and 80 lbs. Likewise, the Silver Labrador Retriever height range is between 21 and 24 inches at the withers. These measurements are the same for all coat colorations. Silver Labrador Retriever colors are described as gray or silver. They have gray noses, nails, and gray pads on the paws of their feet. The gray color occurs as the result of breeding two dogs that each carry a recessive gene for dilute coloration. How to Train a Silver Labrador Retriever? In fact, Labrador Retrievers are trained to do many important jobs including drug detection, search and rescue, and therapy work. They are also commonly used as service dogs for people with disabilities. There is no doubt that this is a very trainable dog. However, like all dogs, training a Silver Lab takes patience, effort, and consistency. Make sure you find a trainer that uses modern, positive, force-free training methods. There is no need to use painful training devices such as shock collars, pinch collars or choke chains. Instead, find a trainer that uses reward-based training. This type of training is more effective and more enjoyable for you and your pet. Once you have mastered basic commands, you can look into more advanced activities such as canine sports. Silver Labs can excel at sports including flyball, dock jumping , water retrieving, agility, tracking, nosework, Frisbee and much more! His online resource contains Hundreds of Excellent Dog Training Videos that will take you step-by-step through the process of developing a healthy, happy well-behaved dog. You will need to brush and bathe your Silver Labrador on a regular basis. However, professional grooming should not be necessary. Labradors are moderate shedders, so be prepared for some dog fur in your house. Are Silver Labrador Retrievers Hypoallergenic? Labrador Retrievers of all color varieties are NOT hypoallergenic. If you are looking for a breed that is hypoallergenic, check out this article for some possibilities. Silver Labrador Retrievers are prone to certain genetic conditions, and your vet can give you an idea about what to expect in terms of care and financial cost. For example, be on the watch for signs of the following conditions:. How Much Does a Labrador Cost? And, this is just the upfront cost of the puppy. This includes the cost of food, veterinary bills, grooming, bedding, and so on. Labrador puppy costs depend on a few factors. Quality of the breeder Quality of the parent dogs Type of Labrador eg. For instance, puppy prices tend to be higher before Christmas, so buy a puppy in the spring, instead. Originally, black Labs were favored above other colors. Brown and yellow Labs were extremely uncommon, and were not at all desirable. Over time, this opinion changed and brown and yellow Labs became more accepted. Shooting communities still tend to prefer the black Lab, but yellow Labs are very common in other working roles, like as therapy dogs and guide dogs. On the whole, each official Labrador color will cost a similar amount. But, yellow and brown Labs may cost slightly more than black Labs, since the genes that cause their coloring are recessive and therefore are less common. Non-Standard Colors Labrador costs can be hugely increased or reduced by non standard colors or patterns. For instance, dilute shades or mismarks. Dilute coloring is recessive and highly controversial in the Labrador community. The genes that cause these shades will dilute pigmentation, turning black Labs into charcoal Labs, chocolate Labs into silver Labs, and yellow Labs into champagne Labs. Some believe this color results from cross-breeding. But, others believe the recessive genes simply remained hidden over generations, like original yellow and chocolate coloring. Dilute colors are not accepted in the official breed standard. So, many breeders will not adjust their price, and may even lower it for unexpected dilute puppies. The same is the case with mismarks. Mismarks can include white patches and spots, brindling, and even tan markings. Extensive mismarks will disqualify a Lab from show. Show type Labs are bred to fit the Labrador breed standard. They are usually slightly stockier and less active than field types. Field types are more often bred for their working ability than for any specific appearance. Labradors cost more when they are bred to show standards. Field Labs tend to be cheaper than Labradors bred for show. But, you should consider which type is best for you, rather than just going for the cheapest Labrador you can find. Field type Labs can be much more energetic and active than show types. First time owners may find the English Lab slightly easier to raise and train! Conversely, Labrador costs can be highest with field trial champion bred dogs that are likely to win awards. Labrador Costs From Breeders vs Shelters Labrador puppies from reputable breeders will cost more than dogs from a rescue center. Whilst Labs from breeders can cost thousands of dollars, Labradors from rescue centers can only be a few hundred dollars. A major difference between Labs from a breeder and Labs from a rescue center is the history of the dogs. Puppies from a breeder will stay with their mom and siblings until 8 weeks old. At 8 weeks, puppies can go to their new home. Rescue center dogs can have unknown histories, or even histories that involve abuse. Labs from rescue centers are usually older, and have often lived with other families. However, many Labs are given up for non-behavioral reasons. They can be just as wonderful pets as puppies from a breeder. And, many dogs from rescue centers will have basic training, including house training, obedience, and potentially recall. Why Are Breeders So Expensive? Reputable breeders tend to cost more than any other puppy source. Breeders have to spend a lot when breeding a litter, and all of this will lower their profit margins. Labrador breeding costs include: Health testing and certificates. November 22, There is no denying that Labradors have long been one of the most popular dog breeds. In this guide, we are going to reveal everything you need to know about Silver Lab puppies. Just like traditional Labradors, these dogs are adored for their outgoing and friendly personalities. They are lovable, sociable, loyal, and energetic. The only real difference is their unique grayish-blue color, which is adorable, to say the least. For the price of or to apply for one of our silver labs contact us at the bottom of this page here. You may be wondering how we have ended up with Silver Labs, and why they are the perfect family companion. Another feature of a dilute dog is the color of the eyes and the nose. The dilute gene is something that you will find in a lot of different dog breeds. Nevertheless, it has only appeared in Labrador Retrievers quite recently. The dilute gene and coat color The American Kennel Club recognizes three different Labrador colors: chocolate, black, and yellow. You will notice that three colors are missing from the list: champagne, charcoal, and of course, silver. Just like silver is considered a diluted version of chocolate, champagne is a diluted version of yellow, and charcoal is a diluted version of black. The way the dilute gene works A set of genes controls the coat color a Labrador has. When it comes to the silver color, it is the D gene that is at play here, acting as a type of switch. This means that a Labrador is going to require two copies of the dilute gene to have dilute fur. This means that a silver coat can only be produced with the final combination. Unless one little d is paired with another little d, it is not going to have any impact. There are some dog breeds whereby all of the individuals will have two little d genes, with Weimaraners being a prime example. Where do we get Silver Labs from? In the United States, reports of Silver Labradors were first seen from around the s. One of the earliest kennels to produce Labs in this new silver color was Culo Silver Labs. Our Silver Labrador Romeo Precisely how this new color came to be is a question that a lot of people debate, with a number of different opinions on the subject. How did Labradors end up with the dilute gene? There are a number of different options that can explain the appearance of a new gene in a purebred dog. This includes the following: Hidden genes Spontaneous mutation Mixed breeding The first and most obvious explanation is that there was a cross between a Labrador and a breed of dog that carries the dilute gene at some point. The capacity of a rare gene to stay hidden for an extended time period is a phenomenon that the majority of scientists are aware of. The explanation for the appearance of the Silver Labrador in the s is arguably the most valid alternative to the theory of cross-breeding. We know that some genes are more dominant than others, and can hide or mask them. These are known as recessive genes. A lot of diseases happen as a consequence of recessive genes, and they only appear when the unfortunate individual inherits two copies. Rare diseases that are carried by genes can actually remain hidden for years and years and years, only to appear when dogs that are closely related end up mating together. This is something that happens more regularly when the gene pools are small, as is the case in pedigree dog populations. Colors can be recessive or dominant as well The B color gene is one that determines whether or not a Labrador is brown or black, with black dogs being favored. Brown is a recessive color, and a Labrador is going to require two copies of the little b brown gene in order to end up with a coat that is brown in color. Brown Labs only became popular when breeders intentionally set about mating them to each other. Some people believe that the rare dilute gene has been present in Labs all along and that it only appeared when two dogs that were closely related were bred — as some rare diseases end up doing. It was not until that the AKC registered the first Labs. This includes the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, which is a breed that does have the dilute gene. Spontaneous mutation Another theory to consider is spontaneous mutation. It is not uncommon for genes to mutate. This is another way that an unusual or rare characteristic can appear in a family of dogs that were not affected by it previously. This is a theory that is not overly popular for the appearance of the dilute gene in the Silver Lab. The reason for this partly comes down to the fact that hidden genes are such a plausible explanation. For a mutation to be identical to a gene that exists already for unusual coat color in a different breed would be a coincidence. A lot of people feel that the spontaneous appearance of the dd dilution gene in the Silver Labrador Retriever gene pool is, to say the least, unlikely. However, this is not something that we can rule out. Mixed breeding A lot of people believe that the first Silver Labrador were, in fact, crossbreeds. This is a theory that is plausible, and there are evident motivates for dog breeders wanting to create a new color variation of an existing breed. Motives can include the allure of creating something new and the financial gain, although they may not have realized that Silver Labradors would be so popular. A lot of people that believe mixed breeding is at play here believe that Labradors were mixed with Weimaraners, creating a cross. However, it is worth pointing out that this theory has lost a bit of credibility as of late because of the genetic testing of Silver Labrador, which has not shown any connection to Weimaraners. The appearance of a Silver Lab Of course, the stunning silver coat is the first thing that people tend to notice about a Silver Labrador. This smooth, double coat appears almost like it is velvet, and it tends to be a faded brown or a slate grey shade. Another one of the defining features is their straight otter tail, which enables the dog to move through the water safely. They are built for both water and land, and they have long, muscular legs, which are made to suit swimming and running. Colors The Silver Labrador can come in a number of different shades. Typically, it is a bluish-grey or slate, yet, faded brown is another possibility. The coat is incredibly smooth, and when you stroke a Silver Labrador, it feels a lot like plush velvet! Size Once a Silver Labrador has fully grown, the girls are going to be between 21 and 23 inches tall, and the boys are going to stand between 22 and 24 inches tall. The females are between 55 and 70 pounds while the males are between 65 and 80 pounds. Silver Labrador longevity and health Silver Labradors suffer from the same health problems that other purebred Labs can experience, including over-eating and a predisposition to joint issues. Two studies that have been carried out record the lifespan for a Labrador at between 11 and 12 years of age, and Labs also have a higher cancer rate when compared with other breeds, i. On the balance, though, Labradors are a breed that is well-constructed and healthy, free from some of the different disabilities that plague a lot of other purebred dogs. However, this is a possible medical issue linked with the coat color dilution gene that you need to be aware of. Color dilution alopecia The color dilution gene — the dd gene that we have been referring to that causes the beautiful silvery coat — is sometimes linked with coat issues. Particularly, it may be connected to a type of hair loss. It is not typically a condition that is life-threatening, but it also is not curable either. It can result in progressive hair loss in young dogs and could cause a recurrent infection in the hair follicles. Coat dilution does not always result in skin issues. Not all dogs that have the dd gene are going to have the faulty alopecia variant. And, you will find that the majority of Silver Labradors do not have alopecia. However, it is important to be aware of the fact that this can be an issue. To date we have not seen it in our bloodline. In a lot of respects, therefore, the health of a Silver Labrador is a lot like any other type of purebred Lab. Silver Lab training and temperament No matter the origin of the Silver Labrador, the Silver Labs we see today are very much Labrador in both conformation and temperament. Training a Silver Lab puppy can be a great deal of fun. Of course, it will take a little bit of patience and time, as Labs can be a bit nippy when they are small, and rather bouncy when they grow into their teens. So, you are going to need to make sure you have a little bit of time every day for training. As long as you are able to handle the high energy that your Silver Lab has, you should not have too much trouble. Aside from the need for mental stimulation and high activity level, the requirements that a Silver Labrador has are very basic, even kids can learn to care for one. Grooming, training, and feeding do not need to go far beyond the needs of other dogs to be happy and healthy. It is not going to take too long for your friendly Silver Labrador to fit right in. Health considerations Chocolate and Silver Labradors are more likely to suffer from skin diseases and ear infections when compared with other fur colors. This dirty water can remain in their ears, which can result in an infection. There are a number of different symptoms that can arise, including crust and itching around the ear, and darkening and redness of the ear canal. Of course, your vet will be able to advise you. With Silver Labradors, you also need to be on the lookout for painful skin lesions that are known as a hot spot. These sorts of lesions happen when a dog picks or licks a spot of the skin that is injured. Sunburn, insect bites, and regular injuries can all form hot spots. For problems like this, anti-inflammatory medication tends to clear up the issue, yet you may need to place a cone on your dog to prevent him or her from picking at it. Nutrition Another important factor to consider when it comes to Silver Labs is that their nutritional requirements are different at different points within their lives. Once your dog has grown fully, it is going to require between and 1, calories each day. In terms of what you feed them, any premium quality kibble is going to be suitable. Never feed raw pork or beef to a dog. Healthy fats are next on the list. The last thing should be carbs. It is important to make sure that all of the ingredients are derived from natural sources instead of artificial fillers. Expected growth for your Silver Lab It is important to know about the growth stages for your Silver Labrador. Your puppy should weigh between 10 and 22 pounds when they are seven to 12 weeks old. When your dog is between 12 weeks and six months, it should be around 40 pounds, which is half of its adult weight. Between six and nine months of age, your puppy should be around three-quarters of his or her way onto the adult size. Puppies when they are this age tend to weigh between 50 and 65 pounds. Finally, your dog is going to be their full weight once they reach one year of age. This is between 55 and 80 pounds. Grooming Despite the fact that a Silver Labrador has short fur, they are not deemed a breed with low shed. If you do bring a Silver Lab into your home, you should expect to see a few of their silver hairs on the carpet and the couch. The dog will shed throughout the year moderately, and you will need to brush it at least once per week. Throughout the spring months, your Silver Labrador will drop a lot more hair than usual. The same goes for the fall, as they prepare for their seasonal coat. If your dog is active, you are generally not going to need to cut its nails. Just be sure to check their nails every fortnight. Silver Labrador exercise The Silver Labrador is a breed that has a lot of energy and will spend most of the day on its feet. They will want to jump and run for most of their waking hours. This is why it is critical to make sure they have a minimum of one full hour of physical activity each day. A game of fetch in the pool with your Silver Labrador can be heaps of fun. They can also enjoy games of chase, and you can even play tag with your fluffy friend. We would rank their activity level as a four out of five, and your Silver Labrador will need to have at least 60 minutes of activity on a daily basis. Some helpful tips on buying Silver Labs If you are thinking about buying a Silver Lab, we have a number of different tips and snippets of information that can assist you with your purchase: Make sure that your property has sufficient space to accommodate a Silver Labrador, as this is a breed that is very active. If you do not have your own garden, you are going to need to take your dog to the park for at least an hour per day so that they can let out their energy. Even it means paying a little bit more, it is important to be sure that you receive the Canadian Kennel Club CKC certification for the puppy. You want to be certain that your puppy is what you expect, and that they have been cared for properly as a youngster. A Silver Labrador can be more costly when compared with other common colors, so it is imperative that you budget effectively. There is often a waiting list that you will have to get onto and wait for your puppy. Established breeders have a greater demand for their dogs because of the quality of puppy they breed. Final words on Silver Labs So there you have it: everything that you need to know about Silver Labradors and the characteristics associated with this breed of dog. We hope that this guide has helped you to get a better understanding of Silver Labs, and why they make such good pets. If you are looking for a friendly, lovable, and unique dog to bring into your family, a Silver Labrador Retriever is well worth considering. In the end, the color of coat of any dog should not make a difference unless you plan to show it. Remember, a silver lab is a chocolate lab with only 1 more copy of the dilute gene. How could this make them unsuitable as a pet? So, our suggestion is as it always has been. Love your dogs not based on a superficial quality such as color of coat, love them because they love you unconditionally and will serve you until their final breath. FAQ about Silver Labs We are going to finish by answering some of the most common questions we receive about Silver Labradors, so you can get a better understanding of this breed. Are Silver Labradors rare? In some countries, Silver Labs are rare, as this is deemed a relatively new color variation. This is partly to do with the fact that registering silver puppies is not widely permitted. Although these sorts of dogs are not considered rare, Silver Labs are more unusual when compared with the likes of Brown, Yellow, or Black Labradors. How big do Silver Labradors get? The recommended breed typical height for a labrador is up to 23 inches and a half for females and 24 inches and a half for males. Nevertheless, individuals can vary a couple of inches to either side of this. With regard to body weight, the variations can be even more diverse, and a lot of this is going to depend on which of the two groups the Silver Lab falls into, i. English or American. Female Labs tend to reach about 60lbs in weight. Male Labs will often reach approximately 70lbs in weight. However, there can be a difference of around 20lbs to either side of that. American Labrador Breds, which are used for retrieving and hunting, tend to be taller and slimmer, and so they are often lighter than the chunkier English type, which you would see in a show ring. Do Silver Labs make good family dogs? Yes, Silver Labs are known as excellent family dogs. Ideally, a Silver Labrador Retriever is going to be suitable to an outdoor-loving, active family, with children over the age of five years old. As Labradors can be bouncy dogs when they are young, a Silver Lab puppy is not always the best choice if you have toddlers in your household or anyone who is unsteady on their feet. However, a calmer, older Lab can be ideal if you have a household with younger children. Labradors, no matter their color, are incredibly sociable. They are happy when they are in a family environment whereby there are people at home for at least some of the day, if not most of it. How much do Silver Labs cost? You may be wondering how much it will cost for you to add an adorable Silver Labrador to your family. We always suggest to find the best quality puppy you can find, not the cheapest. An investment into the health of a well bred silver pup is something that will follow. For more on what a quality Lab puppy looks like visit this page. The rarity of this breed of Labrador has pushed the price up. If you were to go for a classic Black Labrador or a Yellow Lab, you would not need to pay as much. Of course, it is all about finding the perfect companion for your family. Silver Labs cost more than standard colors because they are less common than the standard Black, Yellow, and Chocolate varieties. For the most part, they behave just like the Labradors you grew up with as a child—the most loveable things on four legs. Why this particular color causes so much contention, however is a much more heated subject. The life expectancy is 10 to 14 years, just like any other Labrador. I cannot tell you what to believe when it comes to this difficult subject. Before you decide which side to settle on, however, you should be aware of the important points. In this article we are going to dive into the issues and help you educate yourself on everything surrounding Silver Labradors. For reasons that we will address later on, the Silver Lab costs more than standard Labradors. These are all AKC Labradors. Some of the litters have parents with health clearances. Others do not. Issues Surrounding the Labrador Breed in General You are already treading on some pretty thin ice when you are talking Labradors. With that many devoted fans, you can guarantee there are some serious feelings surrounding the breed. That might be the biggest issue when it comes to the Silver Labrador. You could probably start selling Green English Foxhounds and nobody would care. When you start messing with the number one breed, however, it becomes a different story. The problem arises in the fact that there is a huge demand for this incredible breed and demand has brought a lot of backyard-breeders into the market. These breeders are not concerned about or capable of protecting—at least in the eyes of professional—the overall health of the breed. The rarity of the silver coat has made this particular variety of Labrador even more attractive to backyard-breeders. As a result, the divide between opinions when it comes to the Silver is even more contested. If the answers were clear cut, then the whole controversy would have ended decades ago. Unfortunately, there are no absolute when it comes to the issues that really make up the debate. So, the best you can do is to learn as much as you possibly can before deciding which side to take or whether to just ignore the issue altogether. Having said that, I think it is also important to point out another great quote on uncertainty. The standard colors are as most people know black, yellow, and chocolate. The three standard Labrador colors are black, yellow, and chocolate. The black and chocolate varieties have really remained the same over that time, but the yellows have experienced some variation. Today, however, Yellow Labradors can vary from almost pure white to a fox red or butterscotch without any raised eyebrows. On the other hand, if someone comes with a dog that is designated a Silver Lab or a Champagne or Charcoal it can be another story. So, why do people that accept such wide variation in the Yellows have a problem with the Silver Labs? It really comes down to one accusation that some breeder somewhere crossed a Labrador with another breed of dog to introduce the unique color. So, technically speaking, in order for a dog to be considered a Labrador, it must meet the breed standard setup by the corresponding kennel. These are the ground on which people want kennels to refuse to register a dog that is silver in the Labrador world. There are other disqualifying features that will get a Labrador excluded. Some of those include: Pink nose or one without any color at all Eye rims without pigment Docked tail or otherwise altered When it comes to color, the AKC website says: The Labrador Retriever coat colors are black, yellow and chocolate. Any other color or a combination of colors is a disqualification. A small white spot on the chest is permissible, but not desirable. White hairs from aging or scarring are not to be misinterpreted as brindling. Black: Blacks are all black. A black with brindle markings or a black with tan markings is a disqualification. Yellow: Yellows may range in color from fox-red to light cream, with variations in shading on the ears, back, and underparts of the dog. Chocolate: Chocolates can vary in shade from light to dark chocolate. Chocolate with brindle or tan markings is a disqualification. To some purists in the breeding game, this statement says it all. Photo by Marcus Benedix on Unsplash Those that support and love the silver or charcoal and champagne colors, there is more to the story. What Causes the Silver Coat? The arguments for and against the Silver or Charcoal Labs is set with the origins of the color. Genetics tells us what makes the silver coat, but it cannot settle the debate over where it came from. It is not art. This is science and it allows us to predict what color of puppies result in any combination of dogs. Gene Combinations There are 9 possible gene combinations when it comes to Labrador retrievers: eeBB, eeBb, and eebb will always result in a yellow lab. Eebb and EEbb will always result in a chocolate lab. It seems to reason that there are more black labs in the world than yellow or chocolate. There are more possible combinations that can lead to that color. So every lab has these two pairs and when you breed two dogs they each pass on one of the allele associated with their pair. For example, if you have a black lab with the genetic makeup of EEBB then that dog will always pass on one E allele and one B. On the other hand, if your black lab has the genetic makeup of EeBb, then your puppy might receive an E or e and a B or b. If both parents are yellow labs, regardless of what the B alleles are, you will always get yellow puppies. On the other hand, if you have two black labs, your litter might include yellow, black and chocolate puppies. The following chart might help you see how this works. The top row represents the contributions of the male and the far column represents the female contributions: Labrador color is determined by science. The Dilute Gene There is another gene pair in labs that typically does not influence the color. This gene pair is made up of the D allele or its recessive counterpart d. Historically, that pair has almost always been DD. For a lab to have the silver color that has become so popular over the last several years, this D pair must have two recessive alleles dd and results in a dilute color of the solid color. If there is even one D in the pair, the lab will have one of the three acceptable colors. As a result, in their minds, the AKC should refuse to paper these dogs. Additionally, the dogs would be refused entry in field trials. Other Diluted Colors Although we are focusing this article on the Silver Labardor, each of the three standard Lab colors have their own diluted variation. The Silver Lab is a Chocolate Lab with the dd gene. When a Yellow Lab gets the dd gene, the diluted color is called Champange. This may be the most difficult to recognize because the colors of Yellow Labradors already have a significant amount of variation in them. If you ever see a Champange Labrador, you will still notice a slight difference. If a Black Labrador ends up with the dd gene, the dog will have a charcoal look. When did Silver Labs Show Up? When such a drastic change comes into a popular breed like the Labrador, people start asking questions. Just puppies of the black, yellow and chocolate varieties. There are plenty of speculations as to how the dilute color was introduced to Labrador breed. Some breeders and enthusiasts, based only on appearance, accuse breeders of having crossed a Lab with a Weimaraner. Here is one breeder and geneticist that believes the Silver Labrador resulted in a cross with a Chocolate Lab and a Weimaraner. Remember what I said about uncertainty? If you have ever seen one, you know what they are talking about. The color of a Silver Lab almost matches that of a Weimaraner perfectly. The similarities have given room for reasonable doubt and a plausible explanation as to where the color variation came from. Although the colors seem to scream foul play, the heredity records seem to dispute the accusation. Some people see this as the smoking gun. It is cold, hard proof in their heads that somewhere along the way Labs were crossed with Weimaraners. Some people claim that there is another connection to the Weimaraner. They claim that Silver Labs have longer ears a distinctive Weimaraner feature. Mutated Genes The other side of the argument against Silver Labradors is that the particular gene mutated along the way. Breeders that believe the gene mutated hold the position that those dogs should have been bred out of the breed when the color first appeared. In other words, the breeder should have refused to let dogs with the gene reproduce. This is why the AKC refuses to register Labradors with the disqualifying features that were mentioned above. Those that hold this view see the AKC has the culprit. They had a duty to stop this problem before it could grow to where it is today. Although this kind of gene mutation is extremely rare, it does happen and there is evidence throughout the animal kingdom. It is hard for some people to believe because the mutation if that is what happened resulted in a gene combination that already existed in another dog. For that to happen would be even more uncommon than the mutation happening in the first place. According to scientists, even though mutations like this can happen, they typically do not reproduce. So, I think mutation is the least likely of the explanations. Evolutionary Progress Those that support the diluted variations claim that the gene has always been present in Labradors. These supporters point to the fact that the first Labradors were predominantly black. They claim that Yellows and Chocolates are recent additions to the breed and that the silver and charcoal colors are just the next evolution in the breed. Breeders that love the silver color, would have us accept the new shades and expand the breed. It seems pretty obvious that the genes causing these other two standard colors were present from almost the beginning—even though they were more rare than Black Labs. The reality is that people preferred the Black Labrador to Yellow and Chocolate. So, that preference weighed in on how people bred their dogs. You can see the preference for colors if you consider the Field Trial winners over the last 50 years. Although Yellow dogs were more common, the Blacks were winning everything at one point. Then, slowly, there were more and more Yellow dogs taking the wins. Recessive Hidden Genes There is a scientific phenomenon where genes remain hidden for long periods of time. This phenomenon is the other explanation for why the Silver Labrador may have taken so long to surface rather than hitting the scene at the same time as the Yellows and the Chocolates. This is actually not unlikely as you might think. The likelihood of the eventual pairing of the diluted genes if it was there all along increases as the Labrador breeding pool shrinks. Once you have the paired genes, it becomes more likely in the later litters. Before there was a Labrador breed, individuals were mixing and matching breeds to get the perfect dog for their situations. In the case of Labs, one of the dogs that was used in the mix was the Chessie. The kicker is… Chesapeake Bay Retrievers carry the diluted gene. The AKC has actually ignored the problem. In doing so, they have made the contempt among the breeders even more intense. The AKC does not recognize the diluted Labrador colors. So, then how do dog owners get their Silver Labradors registered? Well, you have to register them to the non-diluted color. Charcoal Labradors are registered as Blacks. And, Champagne Labradors are registered as Yellows. The truth about the kennels, in my opinion, is that they are never going to make a ruling on this matter. To tell you the truth, I am not sure that they can do anything but accept the dog if the pedigree seems to be in order. This is really difficult to answer because we cannot settle on whether or not this is a variation of the Labrador breed or a Labrador mix. The answer to that question will determine what we can say about their temperament. If it is a part of the Labrador breed, then we would expect to see Silver Labs with the typical Labrador personality. Although there are always variations within that breed, there is a breed expectation. On the other hand, if the Silver is the result of a cross-breeding, then we would need to know what the other breed is to anticipate any changes to the Labrador behavior. Most people assume that any cross-breeding would have been with the Weimaraner. So, take a Labrador and give it copious amounts of caffeine. That is pretty much how I would describe this breed. The Weimaraner has a huge prey-drive more than a Labrador. The higher energy levels and increased prey-drive would make a Silver Labrador if the cross happened more difficult to train than standard Labradors. There have been some concerns about the diluted dogs health. Some writers have even suggested that Silver Labradors will experience increased health concerns because of inbreeding. In the earlier days and still today in the case of lousy breeders , there were not enough of the diluted colors available. As such, the breeders had to use dogs that were closely related in order to continue the color deviation and ensure silver or charcoal litters. Although recent studies of the diluted dog suggest that there are more than enough Silver Labs to keep them from inbreeding problems. Regardless, rumors still concern potential buyers from investing in a Silver Lab puppy. The reality it is that any Labrador can succumb to the ill-fate of bad knees or hip dysplasia. If you are considering buying any puppy, you must do your due diligence. Make sure that both parents have the proper health clearances. This should be done regardless of what breed or puppy you get. Click here to learn more about hip dysplasia. What is the Life Expectancy of a Silver Lab? As the Silver Lab gets more and more common, we will get a better feel for things like their longevity. I anticipate, however, that the life expectancy of a Silver Lab will be the same as any other healthy Labrador. When you bring your little silver bundle of canine chaos home, remember that you have somewhere between 10 and 14 years to love and care for him. Should I Purchase a Silver Labrador? Only you can answer this question. In addition to the typical questions you should ask before making this huge commitment. There are all the typical questions that you must ask before taking the plunge with a new puppy. You need to consider how much space you have and whether your schedule allows you to give the dog enough time. These are difficult questions, but you must be honest with yourself. In addition to the normal questions that you would tell your friends to consider what you want to do with your dog. Are you going to run him in field trials and hunt tests? If that is your plan, then you need to consider the fact that you will likely be allowed to run every time, but that in doing so, you will also likely get heckled by the purists. Although there is mounting evidence that suggests this could be the case, it is mostly circumstantial evidence and nothing more. There are other explanations that offer somewhat equally-plausible explanations. If you purchase a Silver Labrador, you will be able to get it registered. You will not, however, be able to register a Silver Labrador. What do I mean and why does it seem like I am talking in riddles? In order to register the litter, the breeder had to tell the AKC that he had a litter of Chocolate puppies. You can register your little pup, but when you go to register him do not look for the box that says: Silver. It does not exist. Ultimately, you can register Silver Labs, but not as Silver Labs. Fact: It is impossible to determine if Silver Labradors are purebred with current testing. Some supporters of the Silver Labrador adamantly insist that tests have been run to ensure that Silver and Charcoal and Champagne are purebred Labradors. Unfortunately, the current DNA tests for canines are not sophisticated enough to identify ancestral markers. They are really good at pointing out parentage. Reasons People Oppose Silver Labradors It does not take much time in the retriever world to realize that there is some stiff opposition to Silver Labs. All you have to do is attend one Field Trial or Hunt Test with Silver Labs to find out how deep the controversy and the animosity goes. As you bounce around the different forums you can get a feel for how ugly the debate can get. Sharon Wagner does not pull any punches about her opinion on Silver Labs. She said, There are many reasons why silver Labradors should not be produced and the main one is that they are a disqualification and adhering to a standard while breeding is what keeps a breed a breed. The Labrador looks and acts like Labrador and not a German Shepherd because of the dedicated breeders preserving the breed. A standard is a blueprint and varying because it looks nice will undoubtedly cause the structure to fail see full article at www. I think this is the most common and logical argument against the Silver Lab. This leads me to believe that they are breeding simply to make money and do not care about a superior individual nor do they care about the breed in general. Unfortunately, Ms. Wagner allowed herself to stoop to the type of exaggeration that has blown this argument out of proportion over the decades. If you are in the market for a Silver Lab or charcoal or champagne then you had better be ready to pay a little extra. Although their numbers are increasing, they are still a rarity, especially in the UK. This fact has led some to believe that it is the only reason breeders choose to breed for this rare gene. As they become more common, it is likely that the prices will come down, although they may never reach the level of standard labs that meet the AKC regulations. If you are planning on running your dog in AKC events, understand that you will likely run into problems with other handlers. Not everyone is ready to move on. Some of them will express their frustration with the AKC on innocent dog handlers that just want to run their dogs in a Hunt Test. Conclusion Regarding Silver Labs The reality is that this argument and discussion hopefully more of the later will continue to rage on. It does not seem like anyone is even close to presenting information or facts that will completely establish the truth regarding Silver Labradors. Whether you love the color or believe that it is going to bring the downfall of Labrador Retrievers across the globe, we should all agree on the fact that we need to be civil and treat each other with respect.

We take our time to understand your needs regarding your future furbaby, and its here waiting to go home with you. French Bulldog Puppies for sale in Chicago, IL We are breeders of Frenchie Puppies in Chicago We are re-defining the pet store, with transparency and a focus on socialization, health, and temperament. Just as people want to know where their food comes from, so should they know exactly where that Blue french bulldog puppy for sale near you came from as well. By fostering proper socialization, we reduce transitional shock and encourage stability, ensuring your new Frenchie becomes a loving, well-adjusted companion. .So we offer the strongest Health Gaurantee in the industry. To read more about where why you should never chose a frenchie from a faceless entity. If this decision is important to you, then stick around and learn more about our French Bulldog program and the various colors and personalities we produce. Also check out our Education blog before taking home your puppy to ensure that you are well prepared. We have answers. Experienced breeders and businesses usually charge higher fees because of their expertise. When you search through Uptown, you can be matched to puppies that fit your budget. What kind of dog is a French Bulldog? Designed in the s to be a lapdog, Frenchies resemble their bigger cousin, the English Bulldog, but are smaller and sweeter in demeanor. They have large heads, expressive eyes, and perky ears which make them very memorable. Today, the French Bulldog maintains its reputation as a great apartment dog and is a favorite among city dwellers. Why are Chicago French Bulldogs so expensive? Due to the way their bodies are built, French Bulldogs find it difficult to breed on their own. Their narrow hips make natural conception and birth almost impossible. They need to be artificially inseminated and to deliver the puppies, a C-section is required. The medical assistance and expertise needed for breeding Frenchies are the reason for its high price tag. Can I only find a match with French Bulldog breeders in Chicago? You are free to search the entire Uptown Puppies network to find the best French Bulldog puppy for you! Experienced breeders and businesses will know how to best deliver the puppies to their new homes. You can arrange for pick up at the nearest major airport, or pick up your new puppy from their kennels and get the chance to meet the parents! How do you screen French Bulldog breeders in Chicago? There a lot of Chicago-based breeders and businesses that contact us on a daily basis, wanting to join our network. Once they are in, they take our legally binding Breeder Pledge. Our goal is not to just to sell -- we want to connect families with ethical businesses so they are guaranteed a healthy French Bulldog puppy. These irresponsible businesses also tend to ruin the breed by not following the standards. What is a puppy mill like for French Bulldog puppies in Chicago? These illegal businesses spend very little in canine healthcare to maximize their profit. Puppies from puppy mills often have very short lifespans or suffer from health and behavioral issues that are very difficult to treat. Are there any French Bulldog puppies in Chicago right now? Uptown Puppies will help you find the perfect French Bulldog puppy within your area, price range, and availability.

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Von Cluskey German Shepherds is dedicated to producing stable, balanced, clear headed dogs suitable for real world work, a wide variety of sports venues or as active family companions. We will never produce just for the sake of having puppies to sell, but rather because we have a goal in mind for a particular breeding and because we feel that the sire and dam of the litter are a good match and will produce puppies that will be excellent representations of the breed and who we will be proud to have represent our breeding program. All of our breeding stock is titled, usually in several venues, health tested and from top working lines. Because we do train and compete with our dogs ourselves in a wide variety of sports, we recognize the strengths and weaknesses in each dog and take these in to consideration when planning breedings. We want to produce a dog who will give his all while working or playing but who can then come into the house and be a beloved part of the family when work or play is done. Contact Have questions about our dogs or training services please don't hesitate to contact us. Von Cluskey German Shepherds. For the complete list please see our German Shepherd reference guide page. The price for a German Shepherd puppy can vary greatly depending on the breeder. The most important thing is to make sure you are buying from a reputable breeder. Prices for German Shepherd puppies vary for different reasons. If the dog is from show lines, then expect to pay more. For example, if healthy parents can produce a litter of 12 or 13 pups, they may only want to keep the top 3 or 4 to be sold as pets and will not take care of any problems with other pups born in the same litter. Breeders of this type of dog generally have an active presence on social media sites and may be more open to selling their pups online than someone who breeds other types of dogs. Before buying your new puppy you should set up an interview with the breeder. You will want to prepare for this by making a list of questions that you can go over during the interview process. Here are some examples: Will my dog come with full AKC registration? If you are buying a puppy for competition, ask what titles the parents have earned. Are both the mother and father on-site? If not, where are they? How old is your oldest dog that you breed with? What vaccinations will my pup already have done? This is an indication that they are taking care of their animals even after selling them. Ask how often they worm the pups to prevent parasites. Seeing where the puppies are born and how they are being raised can give you a good indication of whether or not this is a responsible breeder. When buying a German Shepherd puppy, make sure you buy from a reputable breeder. You should be able to see where the puppies are born and meet both parents at least once before making your purchase. The most important thing is to ask lots of questions. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your German Shepherd Breeder in Montana Most responsible breeders will have no problem giving you references from people who have purchased puppies from them in the past. These references can be a valuable resource in helping to decide if a breeder is right for you. If the breeder balks at this request or seems hesitant to provide references, it is probably best to move on. References will be able to tell you whether or not they have witnessed the breeder interacting kindly with their animals and if they seem to be knowledgeable about dog breeding. If you want a healthy puppy, you need to find a good breeder and let them prove themselves. Good luck! Responsible breeders will be more than happy to put you in touch with people who have purchased puppies from them in the past. References can be a valuable resource in helping to decide if a breeder is right for you. Past customers will be able to give you a firsthand account of their experience with the breeder, from communication to quality of puppies. They can also tell you if the breeder was available for questions and support after purchase. Be sure to ask the following questions: How were your interactions with the breeder? Was the breeder available for questions and support after purchase? Are the puppies healthy and have they had all their shots? Was the breeding program healthy and responsible? What kind of temperament do the puppies have? How much did you pay for your puppy? One of the best ways to judge the quality of a breeder is by their relationship with their veterinarian. A good breeder will have a veterinarian that they work closely with and trust implicitly. The veterinarian will be able to provide a health certificate for each puppy, verifying that they have been vaccinated and are in good health. They will also be able to screen for genetic disorders. If your breeder does not have a good relationship with their veterinarian, it is probably best to move on. Do Your Homework Before you purchase a puppy, do some research on the breed. This will help you determine if the breeder you are considering is responsible and breeding healthy dogs. A responsible breeder will welcome questions and should be able to provide you with references. They should also have a good relationship with their veterinarian. If the breeder you are considering does not meet these criteria, it is probably best to move on. The breeder does not health screen their dogs for genetic disorders. They do not have a good relationship with their veterinarian. They are not willing to provide references. The puppies do not have health certificates or vaccination records. If you see any of these signs, it is probably best to move on. When looking for a German Shepherd Dog Breeder in Montana, be sure to ask the right questions and look for the signs of a responsible breeder. All reputable breeders will screen their dogs for genetic disorders and have a good relationship with their veterinarian. The puppies should also have health certificates and vaccination records. Health problems can be costly and time-consuming to treat. It is best to avoid breeders that do not health screen their dogs. If a breeder balks at this request, it is probably best to move on. Be sure to ask the Montana breeder about the temperament of the puppies. Puppies like to chew and dig, so remove anything that can potentially harm them from your home. Check all of the baseboards and electrical cords in your home for chewing damage. Be sure to provide lots of toys and entertainment for your puppy. Doing so will help keep them busy and prevent them from causing any damage around the house. Another thing you should do before getting a German Shepherd Puppy is set up an appointment with their veterinarian. You will need this information when you purchase their health certificate, which verifies they have been vaccinated and are in good health. There are a few things you can do to make the process easier. Be consistent with your commands. Take your puppy out frequently, especially after meals and naps. Reward them for going potty outside. Use a crate to house train your puppy. It will take some time and patience, but eventually your puppy will learn where to go potty. When bringing home a new German Shepherd Puppy, be sure to prepare your home and set up an appointment with their veterinarian. Also, be prepared to potty train your new puppy. With enough time and effort, they will eventually potty train. 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. Both of these proven, top working bloodlines have reliably and consistently produced quality working dogs! Very few breeders have these honors, especially in North America. Thank you for taking such care in your program that you can provide such an animal as this one. Rebekkah A lovely young Sapphire Shepherds female with owner, enjoying each other's company on the farm. Nov we take the tracking exam! He's an amazing dog, I am very grateful for you pairing us together. C" A multi generation bred dog from Sapphire Shepherds. This website documents our history of involvement in this beloved breed. We are blessed to have a long history of top representatives of Working German Shepherds grace our lives. Please reach out to Ramona with questions and thank you for your visit! This kennel name was chosen as Ramona grew up in the foothills of the beautiful Sapphire Mountain range in Montana. Sapphire is a gemstone associated with royalty. It is believed to attract abundance, blessings, good fortune and gifts. It has been used to protect against negative energies, bring calmness, strength and spiritual clarity. The below image of Sapphire Shepherds business logo was designed by Ramona. It incorporates her photo of Xurk of Sapphire Mountain, a male who is a work of art inside and out. We are very happy to speak or correspond with you about our German Shepherds via phone, email and allow appointments to view dogs on premises. We are not members of, nor do we post on forums and we are not on social media. Questions about German Shepherd puppies for sale in Montana? We have answers. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in Montana cost? Factors that can affect the price of a German Shepherd include; experience of the breeder, age of the puppy, even the demeanor of a young dog. Am I limited to local litters and breeders? With Uptown Puppies you are not limited to any geographic market. If you do end up selecting an out of state breeder, there are options to have transport arranged for the dog. How does the screening process work? Rather than rank breeders based on marketing dollars, we only list breeders and reputable businesses who are able to pass our strict vetting process and take our binding Breeder Pledge. Why is Uptown Puppies different from the average online search? Uptown Puppies is different from the average online search because when you type a phrase like Montana German Shepherds for sale or German Shepherd puppies for sale Montana into your favorite online search engine, there is no way of knowing how reputable a breeder or business is. Our mission is simple—screen and unite the best breeders in the country with consumers looking for ethically raised puppies. Our process allows families to interact directly with breeders instead of exposing them to puppy mills or backyard breeders online. What is a puppy mill? Puppy mills are terrible facilities where sick, ill-tempered German Shepherd puppies are bred and then sold to unsuspecting consumers for profit. Mills are wretched places where dogs are forced to breed under non-ideal conditions where disease is prevalent and inbreeding techniques are not helping! When you conduct an online search for German Shepherd for sale in Montana and end up selecting a puppy sold by a puppy mill you are helping to promote these businesses and their continued success. What if our family is looking for a specific kind of German Shepherd? There is no need to worry. If your family is ready to meet the perfect German Shepherd puppy, begin searching through our wide selection right now! You may just find out that your dream puppy is only a few clicks away. What can I expect with the Uptown Puppies process? You can either arrange to pick up your pooch in person, or you can ask your breeder to arrange travel for your dog! How do I know Uptown is trustworthy? Because at Uptown Puppies, we only work with reputable, experienced breeders who know how to raise and breed puppies safely and sustainably. We believe in empowering consumers to look past easy online searches where they could be exposed to puppy mills and give the Uptown Puppies process a chance. Does a German Shepherd like a lot of exercise? German Shepherds absolutely love exercise, especially if it gets them outside! Whenever you speak with German Shepherd breeders in Montana they will without a doubt bring up just how energetic and fun-loving these dogs are. Because of the seemingly positive online presence that some backyard breeders have, it can be extremely hard to differentiate a backyard breeder from a reputable breeder until you arrive at the facility. Unfortunately German Shepherd puppies in Montana are commonly inbred by backyard breeders or other inexperienced breeders looking for quick profit. These breeders may even be unaware of the costly health issues that the resulting puppies could be in for later in life.

What is a Grey French Bulldog? Some of them are recognized by the American Kennel Club, while others are not. Grey is not one of the official Frenchie colors, however, it is considered one of the rarer French Bulldog colors. So what does a Grey Frenchie look like? This gives the coat a beautiful, multi-dimensional appearance that shimmers in the light. Dark face and ears: The face and ears of a Sable French Bulldog may be darker than the rest of the body, with black or dark brown coloration around the eyes and on the ears. This gives the dog a striking and distinctive appearance. Grizzled appearance: The combination of black and brown hairs in the coat can give a Sable French Bulldog a grizzled appearance, with a mix of darker and lighter hairs that create a beautiful and unique coat pattern. The whole coat has a diluted black appearance that ends up looking grey. It is similar to the Pied Frenchie with how its patches look. The grey color of Grey French Bulldogs is a result of a recessive gene that affects the black coat color of a typical French Bulldog. Recessive genes only show their effects if an individual has two copies of the gene — one from each parent. French Bulldogs that have one copy of the dilution gene will have black coats, but they can still pass on the gene to their offspring. Inheritance of the Dilution Gene To produce a Grey French Bulldog, both parents must either be Grey themselves or carry one copy of the dilution gene. Health Concerns While Grey French Bulldogs are popular and unique, the dilution gene responsible for their blue coloration can also cause health issues. Genetic testing can help identify any potential health issues related to this gene. How much are Grey French Bulldogs? Grey French Bulldogs typically cost more than your standard colors. Grey is one of these colors. They cost a lot to breed and are high in-demand… everyone wants a Frenchie nowadays. Is a Frenchie worth it to you? It is for me! Learn if a Frenchie is right for you Is a Frenchie right for me? Unfortunately, Grey is one of these colors. As their Grey appearance is due to a dilution of pigment in their coat, they are prone to a condition known as Color Dilution Alopecia which causes hair follicles to become weakened due to the dilution of pigment, leading to hair loss and skin inflammation. Symptoms of Color Dilution Alopecia Thin hair. Two copies of the dilution gene, a recessive gene, are required for a French Bulldog to have a grey coat. Because a puppy can only inherit two copies of this gene—one from its mother and one from its father—it is known as a recessive gene. Since it has a bluish tint in some lights, grey coloring is actually just a watered-down version of black. Grey Frenchie comes in a wide variety of tones, from extremely light to dark slate. There are numerous other patterns that feature the color blue. From pale silvery grey to almost black slate grey, the tint is varied. The dog typically has matching blue or gray eyes and this Frenchie coat is completely devoid of any other markings. One Blue Brindle French Bulldogs have fur that is blue, grey, or brindle-striped. Tiger-striped is another name for this design. The tongue of a Blue Brindle French Bulldog sitting on grass. You may occasionally see a blue pied Frenchie with a background that is significantly less white. Indigo Fawn Blue Fawn describes a French Bulldog with primarily fawn fur with a blue mask of fur around its muzzle, eyes, and ears. Due to their relative rarity, Blue Fawn French Bulldogs are in high demand and difficult to locate. Because merle dogs are challenging to breed, it is uncommon. This adorable Frenchie carries a gene known as merle, which causes random patches of their blue coats to lose pigment. The end effect is a complete blue coat that has patches of white fur scattered randomly across it. The eyes, nose, and paw pads of a French Bulldog are likewise impacted by the merle gene. Blue French Bulldogs—are they uncommon? Only when a French Bulldog inherits two copies of the uncommon dilution gene will it grow a blue or grey coat. The blue merle is the most uncommon of the five blue coat patterns. Given the complexity of dog coat genetics, attempting to produce breed-specific colors requires extensive selective breeding, and even then, results cannot be assured. Frenchies with blue or grey coats will always be more uncommon than those with other hues since reputable breeders prioritize creating healthy Frenchies over specific colors. What is the name of a Grey French Bulldog? Blue French Bulldogs are the official name for grey French bulldogs. Grey-colored fur is simply referred to as blue in official documents. Grey is not a breed standard color for French Bulldogs, but when it does appear as a solid coat or as part of a coat pattern, it is formally known as blue. While many greys are much paler and appear more silver in appearance, some do have a blue tint. A Grey French Bulldog costs how much? Why do gray French bulldogs cost so much? French Bulldogs are expensive to create since they are difficult to breed. French Bulldog breeders can charge more for grey Frenchies because they are rare and in high demand. Because those who have their hearts set on owning a blue Frenchie are willing to pay more, breeders can charge high prices. A grey French Bulldog with blue eyes is frequently one of the priciest breeds. Typically, such Frenchies have a blue merle coat, which is among the hardest to find. Blue eyes on grey French Bulldogs? Grey French Bulldog puppies always have blue eyes from birth. Due to the lack of melanin the color pigment after birth, this is actually an optical illusion. Despite appearing blue, their eyes are actually colorless. Although many French Bulldogs grow brown eyes, some can have light blue or green eyes if they have grey coats. Due to their unique genetic makeup, Blue Merle Frenchies are the breed members who are most likely to have bright blue eyes. Additional relevant information regarding Grey French Bulldogs Lifespan Grey French bulldogs have the same to year lifespan as other colors. Owners of Frenchies must, however, keep a keen eye out for any health issues. A healthy diet and the appropriate amount of exercise are equally as important as yearly immunizations and health exams. The huge head and short nose of grey Frenchies or any other color make it difficult for them to swim for very long, thus they should never be in the water without a dog life jacket. Size Grey French Bulldogs, like those of other colors, can grow to be 11 to 13 inches tall and weigh up to 28 lbs. Make sure you feed Frenchies the proper quantity to prevent them from becoming overweight, which can lead to diseases like diabetes and heart disease. Characteristics A grey French Bulldog has the typical bat ears, a square skull, a short nose, and wrinkles on the face. It has a compact, muscular body. Frenchies often have short, sleek coats that are easy to maintain and require little upkeep. Their coats can look rather dull and mangy and frequently have bald or thinning spots. They may also have dry, flaky areas on their skin. This breed prefers to mouth breathe due to its short muzzle, which causes it to drool more than the typical dog. There are ways to deal with the smelliness that Frenchies sometimes have. Temperament French bulldogs with grey coats have the same calm, amiable disposition as those with other coat colors. Due to their playful and sociable natures, they make excellent family dogs. Being a sociable breed, the Frenchie does not like to be left alone and prefers to have someone around most of the time. Although some people consider Frenchies to be quite obstinate and wilful, you can easily pick one up and carry it if it refuses to go where you want! Perfect for You? A grey French bulldog may adapt to various lifestyles. It is sturdy enough to put up with rowdy kids and gentle enough to put up with an elderly owner. Living in an apartment with a French bulldog is OK as long as you have access to a secure outdoor area or can take it for a few quick walks each day. No, a Gray French Bulldog sheds moderately, hence, he may not be the right choice of pet for those with respiratory problems or have canine allergies. Frenchie dog Grey food and diet Choosing the right food for your Gray French Bulldog involves trial-and-error because this dog breed has a sensitive stomach and is prone to skin allergies. The signs of food intolerance are flatulence and skin irritations. Be patient with the process until you find the ideal protein source for your small fur baby. Grey French Bulldog health issues Enumerated below are the 16 common health problems that a Grey French Bulldog may be plagued with: 1. Hip Dysplasia A skeletal condition, hip dysplasia is caused by an abnormal growth in the hip section. Skin Allergies Skin inflammation is caused by food or triggered by environmental factors like weather. Brachycephalic Respiratory Syndrome This is caused by the anatomical design of the Frenchies which are flat faces and shortened nostrils, thus, causing respiratory distress. Cherry Eye This is a result of a prolapsed eyelid, it leads to excessive tearing and eye redness. Heat Sensitivity The flat noses of Grey French Bulldogs make it difficult for them to breathe well during hot weather conditions and stressful exercise routines. Deafness White French Bulldogs are more vulnerable to deafness, but the Gray-colored Frenchies can also suffer from hearing disorders. Tracheal Collapse A serious respiratory condition, tracheal collapse is caused by the narrowing of the trachea. It causes panting and coughing. Patellar Luxation This is caused by a dislocated kneecap resulting in mobility problems. Hemivertebrae A genetic disorder wherein one of the vertebrates in the spine is deformed. Chronic Diarrhea Grey French Bulldogs are notorious for having food-sensitivity issues. This causes diarrhea and irritable bowel movements. Thyroid Issues An endocrine disorder that could either be hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Cardiovascular Disease Dilated cardiomyopathy is one of the common cardiovascular diseases of the Frenchies. It is caused by the enlargement of the heart chambers. Cataracts Though common among older dogs, but not in the case of Gray French Bulldogs as some of them tend to get it at a younger age which is known as a juvenile hereditary cataract. Cleft Palate Quite a common problem among Frenchies, this can be described as the palate of the mouth failing to form normally before birth. It leads to difficulty in eating and runny noses. Otitis Externa As a result of their narrow ear canals. Grey French Bulldogs are prone to ear infections. Grey French Bulldog lifespan Given the right care, you can enjoy the company of a Grey French Bulldog for an average of 10 to 12 years. Here are the qualities of an ethical and reputable breeder that you should be looking for: Responsible breeders do not sell their pups at pet stores. Instead, they have websites where all their information can be found and inquiries are placed. They have health records readily available anytime. Grey French Bulldog puppy Grey French Bulldog puppies are undoubtedly full of character, funny and whimsical in many ways. Before looking for breeders who have Gray French Bulldog puppies available, you have to understand early on that a Gray French Bulldog puppy will be prone to alopecia. Alopecia is a genetic condition that is referred to as color dilution alopecia or CDA. A Grey Frenchie puppy will begin to manifest this condition at around 4 months until 2 years of age. When it comes to personality, a Gray Frenchie puppy has the same personality as Frenchies of other coat colors. What are the expenses that you need to prepare for your puppy French Bulldog Grey before they arrive home? French Grey Bulldog puppies tend to be stubborn, so be patient with potty training and be sure to give dog treats to your French Bulldog puppy Grey if he gets the job right. All Grey French Bulldog puppies can suffer from a number of inheritable diseases, so be sure save up for possible expenses. At the end of the day, French Bulldog puppies Grey are loving and great canine companions to have. Grey French Bulldog price To give you an idea as to how much is a Grey French Bulldog, we created a short table so you can check the Grey Frenchie price near you and decide for yourself if you will embark on buying a Grey French Bulldog. Here are a few reasons: First, a Blue Frenchie has to undergo artificial insemination to get pregnant, so that alone increases the Grey French Bulldog blue eyes price. Second is that instead of natural birth, breeders opt for C-section, so vet bills add up to the Grey French Bulldog puppies price. Lastly, the color affects the Grey French Bulldog puppy price. Grey French Bulldog for adoption Adoption is one way to own a Frenchie without having to spend too much. Go to French Bulldogs for Adoption frenchbulldogforadoptions. Places to find Grey French Bulldog puppy for sale In this section, we will provide you with a list of reputable breeders who have Blue Grey French Bulldog puppies for sale. At the time of writing this, they have an available male Grey French Bulldog blue eyes for sale. Visit Frenchaholics frenchaholics. If so, check out Blue Coat French Bulldogs bluecoatfrenchbulldogs. They have an available pure French Bulldog Grey puppy for sale. You can call the breeder and ask for the price and reserve the pup. Finding a healthy Grey French Bulldog for sale If you are keen on looking for an adult Grey French Bulldogs for sale, we listed breeders who, hopefully, are selling their retired French Bulldogs. We cannot promise you that these breeders currently have adult Grey Blue French Bulldog for sale, but you can try or at least ask for referrals for adult Blue Grey French Bulldog for sale. Try searching on French Bulldogs LA frenchbulldogsla. All dogs come with a 1. Or you can also check out Dragonborn French Bulldogs dragonbornfrenchbulldogs. Ever thought of adopting an adult rescue dog? Give French Bulldog Rescue Network frenchbulldogrescue. This hybrid dog is likely healthier than the parents.

Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. You might be able to find a dog at a local shelter near you, but you could always contact Labrador Retriever breeders if you want a puppy of your own. The popularity of Labrador Retriever puppies has caused many people to unethically breed the dog for their own financial gain, resulting in sickly and aggressive dogs. By carefully considering your Labrador Retriever breeder, you can get a wonderful puppy that is healthy, happy, and well acclimated. Below are five Labrador Retriever breeders in New Jersey. Every one of these breeders are certified and approved by various Labrador Retriever clubs for ethical breeding standards. You can trust any one of these breeders to love your puppy just as much as you will. By raising their Labrador Retrievers within the home of a large family, all of the McClan Labradors are adaptable, friendly, and great for all families. McClan Labradors specializes in all Labrador Retriever coats, including yellow, black, and chocolate. All Labrador Retrievers bred by StormyC Labradors are raised within the home for friendliness and compatibility. They are also bred to be work and show dogs. No matter what the purpose of your Labrador Retriever is, StormyC Labradors likely has a dog for you. This breeder sells all Labradors Retriever coats, including yellow, chocolate, and black. As a result, Weymouth Labradors only breeds the official colors, including chocolate, yellow, and black. Weymouth Labradors is a great breeder if you are looking for breeders that are careful to not over-breed their dogs. As a small hobby kennel, Weymouth Labradors only has litters occasionally, ensuring the health and happiness of all their puppies. Paradigm Labradors raises their dogs to be obedient, agile, and great within all households. So, you can relax and unwind with one of these labs or show them off at a dog show. You can learn all about the Paradigm Labradors dogs on their site, which introduces you to all their boys, girls, youngsters, retirees, and litters. Unlike many other lab breeders, Shadowbrook Labradors primarily only focuses on black labs, but they occasionally breed chocolate and yellow labs too. No matter what coat style the lab puppy belongs to, all the dogs are bred for superior health and personality. Shadowbrook Labradors are especially great for showing and training purposes. Because they are bred and raised on a farm, they also make phenomenal family companions due to their flexibility and gentle nature. Related Read:. We never have more than two litters a year. Our litters are spoken for early, often before they're born, and we encourage new owners to visit their pups as often as they like until the day they can take them home. Our puppies can be watched and heard! All parents have been x-rayed, and have OFA certificates for both hips and elbows. We have the dam's certified x-rays on premises. All parents regularly see veterinary ophthalmologists and have current CERF certificates. The puppies are born in a 4' x 4' whelping box with pig rails for safety. It can be viewed on our live feed starting a day or two before our dogs go into labor. We have sound on during the birth it can be pretty exciting , but turn it off after the puppies are born. Generally, one of them escapes around 24 days and we move them all to an 8' x 8' pen in the basement. We have another camera there, and once they are in their pen, we turn the audio back on so the world can watch and hear them play. We don't introduce them to the outdoors until the day they leave us. We don't train them -- they train themselves. They need to be wormed again at 10 weeks, and we provide the solution, syringe and instructions to the new owners. We vaccinate for distemper and parvo at four weeks and again the day they leave. If we are convenient to their new owners, we will vaccinate again at twelve weeks and then annually. This provides us a means of monitoring the dog's health in the future. We give distemper and parvo shots for the life of the dog. Most important may be the DVD of the litter's history, including a recording of the puppies' birth if it happened on camera , though that generally isn't ready for many months sometimes years after they leave us. All puppies can be AKC registered. Everyone comes often to visit their puppies here, and they bring family and friends. This is a very social environment. Lynnwood Retrievers.

Updated on 13 July Pros Intelligence When you think of a German Shepherd , a hard-working, muscular dog comes to mind. However, German Shepherds are one of the smartest breeds in the dog world. They were ranked third out of breeds in a study in .Only the Border Collie and Poodle are more intelligent. Usually, it takes five repetitions to teach a GSD a new trick and these dogs will follow the first command 95 per cent of the time. If you bring home a German Shepherd, you will have a brainy dog on your hands. Lola pawsofshire is an example of a German Shepherd that is quick to learn new commands. Lola is very intelligent and easy-going. She has never destroyed the house, and rarely kicks up a fuss about anything. We do a lot of mental training with Lola too as opposed to psychical exercise so she is very good at switching off and knowing when is chill time and when is play time. German Shepherds work alongside the military and the police, while they were the first American service dogs. Experts suggest keeping the commands short and sweet will help to make the training process a little bit easier. They have an eagerness to please, which helps too. When we rescued Phoenix, he walked terribly on lead, constantly pulling and lunging towards people and dogs. He just needed someone to set boundaries and help him direct his energy. We have trained him to be a very obedient dog and to get walks off lead perfectly and can even do a few tricks. German Shepherds have a desire to protect and have got a reputation for being great family dogs. The degree of loyalty depends on the amount of work that you put in during their puppyhood. With their eagerness to please and willingness to follow commands, you can strike up a strong relationship with your GSD pup which will cultivate their loyalty to you. German Shepherd owners who can establish themselves as the parental-type figure in the home can grow a companionship with their dog that is full of love and mutual respect. Freja the German Shepherd is extremely loyal to her owner. A GSD will never stab you in the back, it will always have your back. You have a unbreakable bond with your dog and they will support and help you during their whole life. I will have a long life companion. Great guard dogs While these dogs can make great family pets due to their caring and loving personalities, German Shepherds are universally recognised as one of the best types of guard dogs. Classed as medium-to-large sized dogs, a German Shepherd can grow to be cm 24—26 in tall and kg 66—88 lb in weight. They have very powerful jaws and their bite strength is second only to their compatriot, the Rottweiler. The GSD is a bold, courageous and fearless dog, all characteristics that make it ideal to guard the home. They are quick to learn commands and if trained properly, they will back off if a welcome stranger enters the home. German Shepherds are very loyal and committed. They will protect their owner, family and their house. They are amazing guard dogs and great family pets that will surely keep you safe. They are naturally protective and loyal twords their owners and will stick by you with everything. Beauty This breed can serve a purpose, whether it is guarding your home, assisting those in need or working alongside the police force. For all their admirable traits, perhaps their best is their beauty. These dogs are long, elegant animals that have a lush coat. Their wide head and square muzzle give them a powerful stature, while their pointed ears and big brown eyes give them an alert appearance. With a gentle, sloping bushy tail, the German Shepherd is a breathtaking breeds. Cons Beauty the German Shepherd Photo: beauty. These German dogs require a lot of exercise. Experts recommend at least two hours a day of exercise to keep your GSD happy. Depleting their energy levels can result in a better behaved dog at home — GSD have a reputation for chewing furniture. While committing to multiple, lengthy walks might be a con for some dog owners, it could also be a positive for those with the free time to pursue an active and healthy lifestyle. If you are unable to give your GSD the necessary exercise due to work commitments, you may want to consider hiring the services of a dog walker. German Shepherds also require much of your time to keep them healthy and calm. If left unexercised, shepherds tend to become very hyper, anxious, and not well tempered. You need to have lots of time open to exercising your dog such as walks, runs, and socializing them daily. One of the biggest issues facing the breed is hip dysplasia. A lot of GSD owners have encountered this problem and it is a reoccurring theme with the breed. They are also susceptible to epilepsy. It is a common hereditary disease found in these working dogs and can result it seizures. German Shepherds have also been known to suffer from bloating otherwise known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus which occurs when gas builds up and makes it difficult for a GSD to breathe or sends their body into a shocked state. The price can vary depending on each breeder. For GSD from certain bloodlines, you can expect to pay quite a bit more. Aside from the initial cost, feeding your German Shepherd and regular trips to the vet can hit your budget hard. Prepare for lots of hair around the home! They shed heavily year round so you will need to be prepared to get the vacuum out on a regular basis. They have a thick undercoat which blows out twice a year, which can be a particularly challenging time for a GSD owner. Three or four times a year should suffice! The amount of times I have to hoover my house daily is ridiculous. I could easily hoover 5 times a day and there would still be dog hair everywhere, and I mean everywhere. It gets stuck in the carpets, in the laundry, I find it in my food. I even bring it to work with me and find it in my work diary. I bathed Lola the other day, ended up clogging the drain up and had to go out and buy drain unblocker before I could use my shower again. Shedding season is even worse. Hair everywhere, enough to make a new dog friend made of her hair for her. Aside from this, Lola gets near daily brushes using an undercoat rake and a slicker coat. Doing so tends to keep the hair under control, but you still find it everywhere. By observing other dogs interact with their fellow pooches or humans, a GSD can learn the proper way to behave. Her attention is on loud noises or even something like wind, but we try and remain patient with her at all times. We use positive reinforcement training only and will continue on this path for the rest of her life. These dogs are known to be capable and smart working dogs that add a lot of fun and love to your family. It could be said that there is no ideal dog. All dog breeds have their pros and cons that we must considered in order to know which is the dog that best suits our lifestyle and needs. So, what are the German Shepherd pros and cons? Keep on reading to find out. Also known as Alsatian, this dog originated in German in the late s as a strong and intelligent herding dog. Later, it became one of the most popular dogs and the parent to one of the most popular breeds in the USA. It is a working dog that can also help the blind as a reliable guide dog, chase criminals, sniff out illegal substances at the airport and in malls, visit the sick as a fun dog, and herd sheep. They were able to help find survivors and comfort rescue forces. American German Shepherds are slightly different from their German counterparts. They have become more accustomed to family life and will show slightly different behavior. The dog usually lives up to 14 years, with an average life of 10 years. The male reaches a maximum weight of 90 pounds, while the female will be slightly lighter, weighing around 70 pounds. German Shepherd Pros and Cons There are several differences between members of the same breed, so these traits might not be common in every German Shepherd dog you encounter. Here are the pros and cons of the German Shepherd. Here are some of the advantages of getting a German Shepherd. Strong body German Shepherds have strong muscular bodies to be able to herd sheep. Due to its history as a herding dog, you can expect a lot from this strong and smart dog. It likes to stay active and will appreciate daily walks and play sessions that you both can enjoy together. Long Life Span German Shepherds can live up to 14 years. As long as you keep an eye on your dog, take them to the vet, pay attention to their diet, and make sure that they exercise regularly, they will have a long healthy life. Some health problems are expected at an older age, just like other dog breeds. Intelligent If you take a moment to think about all the things that the German Shepherd can do nowadays, you will realize how highly intelligent this dog breed is. This dog loves to have a job. German Shepherds were the first service dogs in the United States. They were also used to help the blind, the deaf, and people who suffer from seizures. Dogs can detect epileptic seizures 45 minutes before they occur. This dog is an excellent rescue dog and can sniff out survivors in buildings collapses as well as avalanches. They will go out of their way to warn you in case of danger. In addition to being highly trainable, a German Shepherd also has a desire to please. This means that you can teach your dog to do anything you want. Obedient This dogs understand the rules and will follow them. They will always listen to orders, and this qualifies them as excellent show dogs. German Shepherds take part and succeed at agility and obedience competitions because they are easy to train. To make sure that your dog is following your orders, you should be the alpha leader. In general, German Shepherds are easy going and will listen to whatever you tell them to do. Loyal German Shepherds are loyal dogs and will go out of their way to help you in case of danger. These dogs make great family dogs with a strong desire to protect their owner. A German Shepherd is approachable but takes time to trust strangers. Once you have established a good relationship with your puppy, you will have a loyal life companion. All the time you spend with your dog as a puppy will be reflected in a lifetime of loyalty where your German Shepherd will always try to keep you safe and happy. Your dog will usually identify the parental figure in the house and have a huge love and respect for you as a protective parent. Excellent guard dogs, they can have an aloof attitude and can even become a little aggressive if they feel danger. This dog is extremely protective of its owner and will do their best to protect you in case of danger. It has a powerful jaw and will not hesitate to attack anyone who might threaten you. This is why it will work for you if you live alone and need a companion to keep you safe. The German Shepherd is a courageous and fearless dog. Beautiful In addition to its exceptional personality, this dog is also very beautiful. It has a lush smooth coat and bold yet loving eyes. The pointed ears give this dog an alert appearance while the face shows its good nature. Combined with their gentle yet strong personality, German Shepherds are very beautiful. The puppies look lovely and innocent, and the adult dogs are also a delight to look at. Various Colors There are different types and color variations of German Shepherds you can choose from. The most common colors are black and tan, but you can find black and cream, black and red, blue, gray, sable, and even white German Shepherds. White is not considered a standard color for the breed by the American Kennel Club, but you can still get a white dog if you want to. Clean Taking care of a German Shepherd is pretty straightforward. As a matter of fact, 4 to 6 baths a year would be enough. Too much bathing strips the hair of its natural oils and make it less healthy and more prone to falling and excessive shedding. You can give your dog a bath whenever they get into mud or if you feel that they need special cleaning. Use a mild dog shampoo and a special brush to remove the tangled hair, mats, and knots. One of the pros of owning a German Shepherd is that you will not have a problem traveling with your dog and take him wherever you want to go. German Shepherds Cons Despite all the amazing traits of the German Shepherd, owning one comes with a few disadvantages. German Shepherds need a lot of daily exercise, love to run, and enjoy long play sessions. If you keep your dog in an apartment, you should take it out for regular walks. Not getting enough exercise can make your dog too aggressive or depressed. Giving your dog the needed physical stimulation every day will keep them in good health and will also decrease the tendency for less desirable behaviors like barking or chewing. The dog suffers from separation anxiety if you tend to leave them for long periods on their own. German Shepherds are family dogs and enjoy playing and interacting with everyone in the house. If you tend to spend long hours away from home, your dog will become too depressed and bored because they need human interaction. Dogs that suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for too long will chew on furniture pieces, a common trait of German Shepherds. They will also bark and act a little bit aggressive. An under-exercised and ignored dog will show you that it needs attention by engaging in destructive behaviors. Health Problems Like many other dogs, German Shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia , especially when they get older. This condition is too painful and deprives the dog of moving properly. This dog can also suffer from epilepsy , which leads to seizures. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus or bloat is one of the common health problems in German Shepherds. It usually happens when the dog drinks a large amount of water after eating or exercises vigorously after a big meal. The stomach fills with gas and then twists, so it can be very painful. If left untreated, the blood will not be able to travel back to the heart, and the dog can go into shock. However, their ears are also prone to infections and checking the ears once a week is strongly recommended to prevent health problems. They Shed a Lot A typical German Shepherd has a dense medium-length coat to protect the dog from rain, snow, and dirt. The outer layer could have straight hair or can be curly or wavy. The luscious coat of the German Shepherd comes with a few cons. German Shepherds shed a lot all year long, so you need to invest in a good vacuum cleaner that handles pet hair and dander efficiently. In addition to regular shedding, the dog loses its heavy undercoat twice a year, which can be a serious problem for German Shepherd owners. Regular grooming and cleaning the hair regularly will help you deal with this issue. You should brush the hair at least 3 or 4 times a week to keep the shedding under control. Needs Socialization German Shepherds are generally quite nervous around strangers. Their aloof nature makes them great guard dogs, but they can become a little too anxious when they meet people for the first time. Early socialization is essential to help your dog overcome their natural fear. Your German Shepherd is a smart dog and can pick up proper behavior by watching how humans and other dogs interact. As long as you socialize your German Shepherd with other pets, dogs, and children since puppyhood, there will be no serious issues. German Shepherd puppies are quite expensive and need special care and treatment. Final Thoughts All future dog owners should first consider all the pros and cons of owning a German Shepherd. A German Shepherd is an exceptional dog. Bringing one to your home comes with lots of pros because this dog is easy to train and will always put your life first. However, you should be able to give this dog the attention it needs. They also need lots of physical stimulation and should always be given a job to do. Related Content. By Chris German Shepherds are iconic and classic dogs that adore affection and companionship. In many ways, German Shepherds are the ideal pet for those who love adventure, road trips, and playing outdoors. German Shepherds are an excitable dog breed that loves spending time with their family and small children. They are fun-loving dogs who enjoy the thrill of adventure and can adapt to nearly any situation. However, they come with a few of their own issues. German Shepherds can be susceptible to health conditions like hip dysplasia and epilepsy. This dog breed is also loud and may spend plenty of time barking. With the right amount of love, attention, and training, a German Shepherd can make a dog owner and family happy. Read on to find out more about the German Shepherd pros and cons of ownership. Pros German Shepherds are stunning dogs with lively personalities and vibrant coats. These dogs love spending time with the family and will gladly cuddle, show affection , and play well into the nighttime hours. German Shepherds are also highly vigilant and are ideal protectors and guard dogs in case of an intrusion. There are many positives to owning a German Shepherd, including plenty of affection, constant playtime, and an enhanced sense of safety. Loyalty There is no dog breed as loyal as the German Shepherd. This dog adores their owners and families and will spend as much time as possible making them happy. These dogs thrive on praise, attention, and adoration. They will also do nearly anything to get them. German Shepherds rarely leave their owners, choose other people to be around, or abandon them. The owner and German Shepherd go for a walk. Stunning Features This dog breed is stunning and has a coat of fur that comes in many colors. Some German Shepherds may have nearly solid black fur , while others have various colors. German Shepherds have stunning features like warm, chocolate brown eyes and a resilient body type. Black German Shepherd running. Training Is Easy German Shepherds are easy to train, which is why they are often used by police departments in the United States. German Shepherds are constantly willing to please and want to do anything possible to make their owners happy. Because of this eagerness to please, German Shepherds accept commands and instructions. Owner trains her train German Shepherd. Adapts Well This dog breed adapts well to changes in routine and nearly thrives on new adventures as they come up. There is nothing more exciting than a vacation for a German Shepherd. All the new sights and smells can make a German Shepherd excitable and engage their need for something new. German Shepherd runs on the water. Highly Intelligent German Shepherds are highly intelligent and love to engage in the part of their brain that enjoys puzzles and solving riddles. This dog breed will engage in hide-and-seek or spend hours digging holes in the backyard if it needs to engage its brain. It can be hard to hide from a German Shepherd since they are so intelligent and often used to locate missing persons and items. German Shepherd hyper actively plays with a ball. Loves To Stand Guard German Shepherds are very protective and love to watch for potential dangers and threats to their families. German Shepherds will alert to anything they deem even mildly threatening and will use their bodies to shield those they love to protect them. German Shepherds can be very protective of young children and check on them multiple times a night. German Shepherd approaching his owner. Loves Small Children German Shepherds are especially loving to small children. This dog breed loves playing outside and will spend hours running in the yard, chasing children, and playing catch with toys. German Shepherds will also do anything to protect small children and enjoys laying down with young children at the end of the day. German Shepherd looks after the baby. This dog breed will also give you gifts they find like sticks from outside or their favorite toys. German Shepherd smiles upon seeing his owner. Cons Although charming and loving dogs, German Shepherds may not be right for every household or family — especially those that are busy. German Shepherds require plenty of work, attention, and affection, which some families may not be able to give during their busy schedules. In addition, German Shepherds may have some health conditions as they get older and require more cleaning due to their stunning, long hair. Read through our list of negatives to German Shepherd ownership to decide if a German Shepherd is right for you. Needs Constant Tasks German Shepherds need nearly constant work to maintain their happy demeanor. When left without toys, tasks, or other things to keep their mind engaged and happy, they may start to show signs of emotional distress or depression. German Shepherd nudges his owner to show affection. Constant Energy German Shepherds have constant energy , and this can be exhausting for some dog lovers and families with older children. The constant energy in a German Shepherd may have them running around the house at odd hours and make for mess and destruction. A big boy German Shepherd enjoys a beach visit Barks Frequently German Shepherds are hyper-vigilant and always on the lookout for danger , meaning they may bark a lot to alert their families of threats. A family with young children may get annoyed with the constant noise, and some small children may have trouble sleeping if their dog barks all night long. German Shepherd barks aggressively at the stranger. Plenty of Shedding German Shepherds are notorious for shedding. This dog breed is not hypoallergenic and can cause a lot of issues for families with allergies. German Shepherd sits with his owner in the field. Health Issues German Shepherds are known to get hip dysplasia as they get older. This usually manifests with noticeable hopping, cracking noises, and trouble holding their own weight. German Shepherds may also get epilepsy or other seizing disorders. Separation Anxiety German Shepherds are known to have some separation anxiety. This can manifest as whining, crying, and general unhappiness. Although difficult, a German Shepherd can be left alone for eight hours but should be checked on frequently to prevent damage or property destruction. German Shepherd lying on the ground. Expensive German Shepherds are highly sought-after dogs. Due to this high demand, this dog breed is expensive and may require reservations years in advance. It can be challenging to get your hands on a German Shepherd, especially a puppy. German Shepherd puppy is under crate training. Socialization Your German Shepherd may need a lot of socialization with other dogs and humans. These dogs prefer to live in a place where there are plenty of visitors and friends who can spend time with them. Without the proper socialization, your dog may start to become sad, depressed , and lonely. Two German Shepherds lying on the grass after a training. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are affectionate, loving dogs who adore spending time with small children. This dog breed will gladly spend hours playing, running around the yard, and standing guard for their loved ones. German Shepherd thrives in adventurous environments and will enjoy running around, listening to your commands, and playing with the family. However, German Shepherds can have health conditions and other factors that may make them a challenging pick for busy dog lovers. Although German Shepherds are charming, this dog breed may be susceptible to health conditions like hip dysplasia and epilepsy. German Shepherds are also loud dogs who enjoy alerting their owners of visitors, friends, or intruders. This dog breed can be overwhelming for first-time dog owners and may be too much responsibility for those who live busy lives. By considering the German Shepherd pros and cons of ownership above, you can decide whether they will be ideal for your family and needs. 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. This is greatly linked to their high intelligence and trainability. GSDs will be happy in a home with a large yard, but they can easily adapt to apartment life as long as they get enough daily exercise. They will also adapt to different weather conditions and diverse living conditions. People link dog loyalty to pack behavior , which does not imply dominance but a sense of family group. But pack behavior also points to a basic dog characteristic of social animals. German Shepherds are known to develop strong bonds, show affection, protect, and stick with family through thick and thin. GSD loyalty has also been nurtured over the centuries by training in their original herding role. But, like all other breeds, German Shepherds are not all affection and loyalty. They also come with their fair share of drawbacks that are worth noting before bringing one home. On the contrary, it means knowing them well before committing to be their parent. As one of the most popular dog breeds in the US and the world, and with its many great qualities, purebred dogs definitely come with a fat price tag. Expending energy comes with a myriad of health and overall well-being benefits for German Shepherds and all dogs. A poorly exercised GSD can quickly become overweight and develop destructive behavior due to boredom and unused energy. On average, adults require around 2 hours of exercise daily. That can be divided between morning and evening walks and other engaging activities at home or as part of training. This behavior was inherited from their wolf ancestors as a hunting and survival skill. Since German Shepherds live with us and cannot show their hunting skills whenever they feel like it, prey drive is tamed through training. But as the saying goes, where there was fire, ashes remain. German Shepherds can put out their hunting instinct once in a while. Risk his life chasing moving cars or bikes. Become a stalker of other smaller animals. Focus on moving things and fail to concentrate on training or commands you give. My German Shepherd chasing squirrels — clearly needs more prey drive training! On one side, they are rated slightly above average in their ability to be friendly toward other dogs. On the other side, you should be extra careful if you want to keep cats and smaller pets like rabbits or birds. Remember that GSDs have a strong prey drive and are likely to see smaller animals as merely game. To prevent this, you should gradually introduce your doggo to a cat early in life and gradually. But you may want to avoid pet rabbits and birds altogether if dealing with a fully grown GSD. That is especially true if breeders test their dogs for possible genetic-inherited conditions before breeding. Nonetheless, the breed is associated with several health conditions, including:. German shepherds often have a lot of health problems. They are large in size and have an abundance of energy. Sometimes german shepherds bark a lot. Their temperament can sometimes be disagreeable. It can be hard to find a reputable german shepherd breeder. Sometimes they tend to latch to one person. You will need to be their leader. They can sometimes become aggressive. As you can see there are a lot of pros and cons to keeping german shepherds. So now you know in short the pros and cons of having a german shepherd. On average they live for around years. Most of their lifespan is going to be based on genetics, whereas some of it will also be based on the lifestyle you give them. There are 11 officially recognized color variations for you to choose from. As well as the normal black and tan, you can also get white, black, grey, bicolor and many more colors as well! In fact, this is one of the reasons that german shepherds make such great family pets. When you look at the different jobs dogs can have, german shepherds fill most of them! They can often be herders, guard dogs, and drug sniffers. They can also comfort the sick and old, and become excellent guide dogs as well! However, for your german shepherd to be like this, it is important to remember that they need to be socialized properly. Check out the pros and cons of owning a Rottweiler! They form extremely deep bonds with the people closest to them, who they see as their pack. And these bonds are unlikely to be broken for new people. However, it also causes them to become more wary of strangers. Highly Intelligent And Trainable German shepherds are both highly intelligent and highly trainable. In fact, according to Rover. Of course, training your german shepherd effectively always requires the right training course. However, there is a point where the weather becomes too cold. Find out more here. Find out how to keep your german shepherd cool. But in either case, if the weather is too hot or too cold for your german shepherd, it will be the same for any dog. Check out the pros and cons of owning a golden retriever! Anything more than that and the oil on their coat will be effected. German shepherds rarely smell too doggy. But if they do, you can always buy an effective doggy deodorant for them! Generally, when you have a dog your social life tends to improve. Not to mention that everyone sees dog owners as more trustworthy! They have healthy bodies that help aid in giving them a long and happy life. There are forums and websites all over the internet filled with amazing advice on how to look after your german shepherd! This makes german shepherds even easier to raise and learn about! If you live by the beach or you often visit the beach, then a german shepherd is a great choice for you and your family! Cheaper than replacing everything they might break. And definitely cheaper than a lawsuit against you, if they decide to bite someone. And the best part is it also has a day money-back guarantee! You can also check out a full review here , to learn exactly what the course has to offer! However, with the constraints and lifestyle some people have, they may not be best suited for your own personal circumstances! Here are all the disadvantages of owning a german shepherd. Each time to grow a coat more suitable to the season. Fortunately, there are lots of ways you can manage german shepherds shedding. They Like To Have A Job Unlike some family pets which can just lay around and spend time with your family, german shepherds are going to need a task. Sometimes There Are Health Problems Unfortunately, like all pedigree dogs, there are some health problems that can occur, especially as they begin to get older. Health problems can often mean higher vet bills, and additional care needs to be given to your pup. Some common health problems that occur in german shepherds include dysplasia, arthritis, and deterioration in the rest of their joints as well. A big dog with a lot of energy can quickly become unruly and hard to control. They Need Lots Of Exercise Having a big dog with lots of energy goes hand in hand with giving them a lot of exercise. When you have a german shepherd ideally they should be let off the lead for an hour a day to run around. Fortunately, not all german shepherds bark and there are things you can do to stop them barking. Find out how to stop a german shepherd barking at night, barking at strangers or barking at other dogs. If left unchecked, this wariness can cause them to bark and growl at strangers and other dogs. As well as a lack of training, poor breeding can also cause this to happen as well. Check out this guide on how to socialize your german shepherd. Oftentimes people will breed and breed their german shepherds to make money. Toys like KONGs which can entertain them are a great place to start. This is can become problematic as it causes massive amounts of stress to your german shepherd, and they often end up becoming destructive. But they are going to consume a lot of your time. They Tend To Favor One Person A german shepherd will normally favor the person that provides them with the most care and spends the most time with them. They Can Be Aggressive Aggression will occur in all dogs, but it does seem to be more common in german shepherds. Anything you leave lying around that they can get their paws on could end up being destroyed. Remember though, all dogs can be like this when left alone too long. Then you have to pay for insurance, food, travel, and training for them as well. So after reading all of this, you may be wondering if a german shepherd is going to be the right choice for you and your family. You Like A Challenge Owning a german shepherd can be a challenge. FAQ Now you know all of the pros and cons and as you can see owning a german shepherd is going to be an amazing experience! However, here are some of your most frequently asked questions! If you do have to leave them, make sure you take them for a big walk and that they have plenty of water before you go. On top of this, puppies and seniors dogs should only be left for a couple of hours at a time and no more than 3! German shepherds are known to be extremely vocal dogs, so a lot of the time they do bark a lot. The good news is with proper socialisation and training you can either teach them not bark, or teach them to be fantastic guard dogs. Are German Shepherds Dangerous? All dogs are dangerous! And german shepherds are no exception. German shepherds are not known to bite or attack their owners anymore than any other breed of dog. However, if they are pushed they will try to protect themselves, and obviously german shepherds are going to do a lot more damage than other dogs. Which is one of the reasons you may see german shepherd attacks on the news more often Can Two German Shepherds Live Together? Of course two german shepherds either male or female can live together! If two puppies are raised together they can often create their own pack and become unruly and disobey commands. The difficulty with owning a german shepherd really depends on you as an owner. However, they have strong personalities and if you let them walk all over you they will. Recap Now you know all the pros and cons of owning a german shepherd. I hope you found this article helpful! And make sure you check out the rest of the website. German shepherd origin German Shepherd pros and cons Advantages of owning a German Shepherd are abundant. GSD owners report that the breed is easy to train, highly intelligent and can be trained to a high standard. Pros of German Shepherds include the dog's desire to please the owner which helps during training. German Shepherd breed has many other advantages, including the dog's willingness to protect the owner and to guard the owner's posessions, including the home where a German Shepherd lives. German Shepherds are very protective of their families and can be trained for personal protection. German Shepherds are perfect dogs for active owners who can spend most of the time with the dog. GSD dogs can be trained for a variety of jobs, from personal protection to search and rescue and so much more. Despite many positives associated with owning a wonderful companion dog such as the German Shepherd, there are some negatives that need to be taken into consideration. Cons of owning a German Shepherd include the dog's grooming needs. Due to abundant shedding German Shepherds need to be brushed frequently and owners of GSD can benefit from having a good vacuum cleaner that will help to control the amount of dog's hair around the home. German Shepherds are very active and without sufficient exercise the disadvantage is that the dog may display unwanted behaviors that include damaging furniture or recreational barking. This working dog needs to have a job to do. The original purpose of the breed was to be a shepherd dog and owners of GSD dogs need to understand that this breed is not ideal for sitting around the home with nothing to do all day long. City dwellers may find that German Shepherd is not an ideal breed for a small apartment. The large and energetic dog benefits from having lots of space to run and an ideal home for a German Shepherd should have a yard where the dog can run around and explore. Disadvantages of owning a German Shepherd is that this large dog requires daily training and mental stimulation. Disadvantages of owning a German Shepherd include the breed's health problems. German Shepherds are predisposed to certain genetic diseases that include hip dysplasia. High impact exercises such as jumping should be avoided to minimize the risk of joint problems down the road. German Shepherd litter size: 5 to 10 puppies How long do German Shepherds live? German Shepherd life span: 9 to 12 years How much does a German Shepherd cost? German shepherd is a large working breed that is loyal to the owner. This German dog breed is exceptionally intelligent and easy to train. German Shepherd is among the top five most intelligent dog breeds. Fearless and alert temperament of German shepherd makes a good watchdog. For German shepherds, their work is their life. These dogs are often used by the law enforcement services as well as by the rescue teams. German shepherds are still used for herding today among other jobs. Are German Shepherds good with kids? A properly socialized German Shepherd makes a loyal and even tempered family dog that can enjoy the company of sensible kids. Tireless German Shepherds have plenty of energy needed for playing with active kids in the yard. German Shepherds are naturally protective and intelligent dogs that can be wonderful companions for active families. Keep in mind that German Shepherds are not recommended as apartment dogs - the large working dog breed is happiest in a home with a yard and a job to do. German shepherds make an excellent companion and a family dog as long as you properly train and socialize the dog. Socializing a German shepherd helps to achieve that stable and confident temperament that German Shepherds are known and valued for. Introduce your puppy to people of different age groups, take the GSD German Shepherd Dog with you wherever you go - to a busy street, to the park, to a mall, anywhere the dog is permitted. Make sure to keep the dog comfortable during your outings as your goal is for the dog to feel comfortable in different environments. Introduce your German Shepherd to people that frequently visit your home, to your friends and relatives. Some people argue that when training a GSD as a guard dog, there's no need for the dog to feel comfortable around strangers and therefore socializing it with various people is not necessary. The reality is if your dog is spending his days locked in the backyard, without seeing other people or the outside enviroment, the dog may become fear-aggressive, and will not be able to distinguish a mailman from a burglar. By socializing the dog you are helping the dog to distinguish which situations are safe and which situations may be out of ordinary and when his guarding instinct needs to kick in. Nanuq is the name of the German Shepherd Alsatian on the picture. We learned from Nanuq's owner that he is a very special dog. Nanuq is gentle around kids, friendly with every dog and human that he meets and will never show aggression. Nanuq is very capable of defending himself when necessary and at the same time he would never be the one to start a dog fight. Well-socialized German Shepherds such as Nanuq can set an example of a well-mannered dog in various situations, making their owners feel proud. For example, a mailman approaching your home should not be considered a threat. But a stranger trying to enter the property should get his attention. This is why it is important to socialize the dog so that he would be able to understand which situations are safe and which require his attention. German shepherd's original job was to protect the herd from any dangers. The dog's family becomes his herd and as a result this breed does so well as a guard and protection dog. It is a natural instinct of your German Shepherd to react to any changes in the environment and to be alert. A German Shepherd that is not properly socialized will react to each stimuli. As a result the dog will be getting stressed out by everyday situations, for example any time a neighbor walks past your property or if there's an unfamiliar dog on the street passing by. This is the reason why early socialization is so important. A properly socialized German Shepherd will be confident when walking on the street and seeing other dogs passing by, nor will the dog try to attack the neighbor. Be sure to provide enough socialization to dog to build his confidence in the world around. The GSD then can distinguish a dangerous situation from a situation that should not alarm him. Naturally there will be less needless barking as the dog will not react in an alarmed way to normal everyday events. One of the most unrated aspects of a German shepherd is his gentle personality. Despite the large size, German shepherd makes a good house dog. The gentle serving nature is what leads to the German shepherd's most amazing role of guiding the visually impaired. A guide dog helps a blind person to avoid situations that might endanger his blind partner. German Shepherds can also serve as hearing assistance dogs. These dogs are trained to alert their deaf or hearing-impaired human partner to important sounds, like the person's name, a baby's cry, the alarm clock's ring, the oven timer's buzz and the fire alarm's wail. When the German shepherd hears the sound, the dog is trained to go to the person and give a signal, such as a nudge of his nose which indicates that he heard something that the deaf person needs to know about. Then the German shepherd will indicate the source of the sound so that the owner can respond appropriately. A well-trained service dog can do most of the tasks that would otherwise force a person to hire a human helper. Intelligence, loyalty and courage made the breed perfect for a variety of different tasks. The German shepherd's reputation as a police dog is legendary. The reason is versatility. German shepherds are often used for search and rescue, narcotics and bomb detection. See video below for more detailed information about this working dog breed. German shepherd shedding Do German Shepherds shed? Yes, German Shepherds are famous for abundant shedding. The dog's coat changes twice a year and each shedding period lasts about a month or more. To keep your animal looking tidy and to reduce the amount of dog hair clinging to your clothes and furniture, daily brushing is recommended especially during the heavy shedding months. Brushing your dog outside may help to reduce the amount of dog hair you will need to clean up after you brush the dog. Check Price Using a Furminator deshedding tool helps to keep a German Shepherd shedding to a minimum. See German Shepherd Furminator review video below. In the video, a German Shepherd owner is using a Furminator brush on his German Shepherd for the first time. White German Shepherd German shepherds come in a wide range of colors. Black and tan, black and red, black and silver, sable, solid black and even solid white German shepherds. Solid white German Shepherd is the same breed, and the only difference is the color of the coat. When the German Shepherd breed was newer, all-white puppies were frequently born to dark-colored parents. Most German breeders and many American breeders killed the white pups at birth because they were considered defective and could not be registered or entered in shows. Now, German Shepherds of any color, including white German Shepherds are welcome in Agility, Obedience, Rally, and other companion competition events. In the Conformation ring, however, dark, richly colored shepherds are generally preferred, and white German shepherds are disqualified. Solid black German Shepherds are often called Lacquer Blacks. Solid black color can be almost invisible in dark surroundings or at night. The coat length can range from short to long and have the appearance of feathering, flowing or skirting. Regardless of the color of your German Shepherd, your four-legged friend should have the stable temperament that we expect from the breed. German shepherd grooming How often should you bathe a German Shepherd? Bathe your German shepherd every month or so. Be sure to completely wash out the shampoo to prevent skin issues. Thoroughly dry your dog before going outside after a bath. Wipe the dog's ears with clean, soft towel after bath to help prevent ear infections. Dog shower attachment From an early age get your German Shepherd accustomed to having his teeth brushed only use toothpaste formulated for dogs. Brush the dog's teeth every day to prevent dental issues. Provide your German Shepherd with chewable treats that help to keep teeth healthy. Trimming German Shepherd nails is an important part of grooming. If you notice that your pet's nails are too long - it may be painful for the German shepherd to walk. Trim your GSD's nails when you hear clicking sounds as the dog walks on a hardwood floor. Dog ear wipes provide an easy way to keep your dog's ears clean. German shepherd training Start training your German Shepherd as soon as your dog enters your home for the first time. It is important to establish rules from the very beginning, especially with a large breed such as German shepherd. Basic obedience training for German shepherd is a must. Basic commands help you to have a good control over your GSD. If you like teaching your German shepherd the basics, you will probably enjoy teaching the dog advanced skills even more. Advanced skills are needed for show dogs. Playing and walking with your German shepherd helps to raise a physically healthy animal. Training your German shepherd basic commands and helping your German shepherd to memorize names of different objects - such as his toys will help your puppy to develop intellectually. Some German Shepherd owners provide a dog with one new toy at a time and keep repeating the name of the new toy. Let the dog play only with this toy for a few days until the dog clearly associates the toy with the name of the toy. This way you can build your German shepherd's vocabulary from an early age. Do not rush this process and stay consistent. Once you achieved success, keep moving forward. Whenever your dog did something wrong - stay calm and do not call your German shepherd to come to you. If you do that - the dog will associate you calling it with a punishment. It is best to ignore the bad behavior and praise the good behavior. Use one word commands and only say the command once. If you say the command more than once, the dog will think that the command consists of more than one word and as a result may ignore the command if you only say it once down the road. If you let your dog to sleep on a couch today, then it is reasonable to expect the same behavior tomorrow. If your house rule is - no dogs on a couch then be sure to enforce it at all times with no exceptions. Clear house rules are important for you and for your dog. Stay consistent and patient and you are going to achieve success. If your German shepherd is easily excitable and hyperactive, you can help to fix this problem by ignoring hyperactivity and rewarding calm behavior. Learn more about training a German shepherd puppy by watching the video below. German shepherd personal protection training German Shepherds are among the top breeds used for personal protection. Highly intelligent, strong and naturally territorial German Shepherd can be trained to protect the owner and the owner's family. Personal protection involves advanced training techniques and you will likely need to enroll your dog in training classes that specialize in personal protection. Special equipment such as protective clothing will be used during training. Be sure to do a thorough research on training techniques that the school uses and get in touch with people who had their dogs trained for personal protection in that school. Ask questions and take your time before you select the right dog training school and instructor to train your dog. Selecting the wrong instructor can be a disaster for your dog and for you. Do your homework and research before you commit your GSD to the training. Protection dog training is a costly and time-consuming process. Protection dog training may take about a year and sometimes even longer. A properly trained for protection German Shepherd will be able to protect you in any environment, not only in the artificial environment where the dog got the training. The dog will be able to think independently from you rather than rely on your commands during a real life situation when you may not have the time or opportunity to give the dog any commands. At the end of the training you and your dog will have a partnership type of relationship rather than a master-servant type of a relationship. Protection dog training involves educating not only the dog but also the owner will need to gain a lot of knowledge of how to handle a personal protection dog in order to enable the dog to do its job right. The dog in turn will be able to protect your family members from attacks, abduction attempts, and during home invasion if of course the dog was trained not only for sport but for real life situations. These types of dangerous situation require that the dog makes independent decisions in a quickly changing situation. To get the dog to the level where he is able to make the correct decisions based on real-life threats, the owner needs to develop a mutually understanding relationship with the dog that completed the training. Keep in mind that the fully trained dog will need to complete re-fresher courses every twelve to eighteen months which can add up to expenses already spent on training the dog initially. There are plenty of dog trainers that claim that they are able to train your dog for a real life protection. Pay close attention to how the training is conducted. Are the dogs trained only during the daytime and on the same territory? If so - the dog may not properly react at night and in a different setting when the real attack takes place. Are the trainers always wearing protective sleeves and the training attacks are following the exact same set routine every time? Is the dog only trained to respond to one attacker? If you have a positive answer to any of these questions then the protection training is done for sport rather than for a real life attack situation and the dog can not be considered to be a trained protection dog. Best dog food for German Shepherds Feed your German shepherd twice a day. Make sure that you are feeding your German shepherd quality dog food that does not include corn for protein as some German shepherds may be allergic to corn protein. German shepherds need to have access to clean drinking water throughout the day. Pick a high-quality dog food made for large-breed dogs. Cheaper dog foods contain too much fat or vegetable protein, and this can lead to rapid growth which in turn can result in hip or elbow dysplasia. Lower quality ingredients may result in vitamin and mineral deficiencies that can cause skeletal complications later in life. An active pound 36 kg adult German Shepherd needs to eat approximately four cups ml of premium dry kibble food or two-and-a-half pounds 1 kg of fresh meat and bone each day. Owning a German Shepherd pros and cons Remember the following basic requirements if you are thinking of getting a German shepherd dog: the dog requires daily exercise, training, and of course your time and attention. Without enough exercise your German shepherd is more likely to get joint diseases as well as become destructive. Lack of regular exercise leads to weakened muscles and heart. Exercise your German shepherd by walking, running with dog pals, playing fetch, swimming, etc. They are very active dogs with tremendous learning capability. German shepherd is a big dog and at least basic training is necessary to provide the owner with a good level of control over the dog. The German shepherd enjoys both mental and physical stimulation and can greatly benefit from training lessons with either the owner or a dog training professional. You are also building your dogs trust by walking the dog, feeding him and by playing dog games with your German shepherd. Bonding with your German shepherd is a process and as you are spending time with your dog, the bond grows into a lifelong friendship. If your German Shepherd spends a lot of time in the yard, it is a good idea to provide the dog with a comfortable dog house. A dog house helps to protect the dog during inclement weather. If you live in a warm climate, choose a dog house with good air flow to keep the German Shepherd comfortable during hot days. Due to their emotionally stable nature German shepherds make a great addition to families with children. German shepherds are protective of their family, and can be very territorial. Before you get a German shepherd, research the temperament of the puppy that you are planning to get. The temperament of the dog is shaped by the genetics and the environment in which the puppy grows up. Socializing the dog from an early age, providing the dog with plenty of positive interaction with humans and other dogs is very important for raising a well adjusted dog. Cons and pros of owning a German Shepherd - video Where to get a German Shepherd You can get a German shepherd puppy from a reputable breeder or from a German Shepherd rescue. In both cases it is beneficial to learn as much as possible about the dog's temperament to ensure that the dog is a good fit for you and your family. Breeders provide their puppy buyers with complete health records for their pup, a four-generation pedigree, and the proper paperwork to register the dog. Be sure to find out whether the breeder conducted an x-ray testing for hip and elbow abnormalities prior to breeding and ask to see the results. Another option is adopting a German Shepherd from a shelter or a German Shepherd rescue organization. Many wonderful dogs end up there through no fault of their own. Dogs are given up for adoption for many reasons, most commonly because of changes in the owner's situation. A dog owner finds a job in a new town and the family can not take the dog with them. A family member develops an allergy to the German shepherd. The owner dies and no one in the family is willing to take the dog. When you adopt a dog from a shelter or rescue organization, there may not be much information available about the German shepherd's past. Ask the person handling the adoption to tell you as much as possible about the dog's behavior while he was in their care. German Shepherd puppies are sometimes found in shelters or German Shepherd rescue organizations, but most of the dogs are either adolescents or adults. There are some advantages to getting an older dog. The older German Shepherd may already be housetrained and may know some obedience cues and have other good skills. If you are set on getting a German shepherd puppy, then you may need to wait a while to get one from a shelter or from a German Shepherd rescue organization. In case you are selecting a pup from a litter of multiple German Shepherd puppies, be sure to pay close attention to the way puppies interact with one another. Observing the puppies will help you to understand each dog's inborn personality traits that will normally get more prominent as the puppy matures into an adult German shepherd. There's also a very simple puppy personality test that you can try and it will help you to quickly assess the character traits of all puppies in the litter. Inborn temperament along with the environment where the dog is growing up will be the main factors that determine the character of the full-grown German shepherd dog. If you invest your time and energy into developing your German shepherd from an early age, treat the dog with respect and expect the same from the dog, you will enjoy years of rewarding experiences with your German shepherd in return. Choosing a German shepherd puppy will be easier if you already know what you'd like your dog to accomplish. If you are looking for a German Shepherd to participate in competitive sports such as Obedience, Agility, Tracking, or Herding then seek out breeders whose German shepherds have proven their potential in the sports that interest you. The same approach works in case you are looking to exhibit your German Shepherd in Conformation shows. You would need to narrow your choices of German shepherd breeders to those whose dogs have proven accomplishments in Conformation shows. Conformation shows are competitive events where German shepherds and purebred dogs of other breeds are judged against the written Standard of Perfection for their breed. The Standard describes the ideal appearance, gait, and temperament of the breed. Males and Females are judged separately, and the winner in each sex is awarded from one to five championship points. The number of points is determined by how many dogs compete. Winners in both sexes are then judged together, along with champions, and the dog among them is selected as the Best of Breed BOB for that day. That dog then goes on to compete against the other BOB winners in his group. German Shepherds are in the Herding Group. A Conformation dog must be kept in peak of health in order to win. To find the right German shepherd for protecting your farm animals from predators you would naturally go to a breeder whose dogs have a proven record of related protection work. Temperament, structure and talent can all be inherited and passed down from German shepherd parents to pups. Training and the right kind of stimulation can enhance and strengthen a German shepherd's inherited potential. To excel in a particular activity or sport, the potential must be present from the beginning. As you are choosing a German Shepherd puppy for a certain activity or sport, it would be a good idea to bring someone experienced in the field to evaluate the pup or dog before you make the final decision. For example, Obedience trials test a dog's response to his handler. The German shepherd must obey verbal commands and hand signals immediately, precisely and willingly. The handler is allowed to command the GSD once, and then must give no further cues until the exercise is finished. Between the exercises the handler is allowed to praise and pet the dog, but the dog must remain under the handler's control. There are several levels of difficulty in Obedience, with a title to be earned at each level by attaining three to ten qualifying scores at that level. A qualifying score in Obedience is or better. A perfect score is .Obedience levels include Novice Obedience, Open and Utility level. In Rally, the German shepherd and handler heel together around a course of numbered stations, each with a sign indicating an exercise for the handler and the dog to perform. About fifty exercises test the dog's and handler's teamwork skills. In Rally the handler is permitted to talk and encourage the dog. For Agility, dogs are judged on speed and accuracy over a course of jumps, tunnels, ramps and other obstacles. Each German shepherd is timed as he individually races over a numbered obstacle course as directed by his handler. In Agility the dog performs the jumps and obstacles and the handler does not. An experienced Agility German Shepherd learns to respond instantly to subtle movements of his handler's shoulders, hips, and knees on the course, as cues for changes in direction or pace. Types of German shepherds There are two types of German shepherds: the working line German Shepherds and the show line German Shepherds. There is a significant difference between the temperaments of the two types. The show line German shepherds tend to be more calm and mellow. The working line German Shepherds are more hyper and high energy than show line dogs. Working line type of German shepherds do well with more active owners that spend plenty of time exercising the dog, playing and walking with this active animal. Be sure to select the type of German Shepherd that matches your level of energy. For example, if you are a couch potato then it would be a mistake to get a working type German shepherd. The reason is that a working type German shepherd that is not sufficiently exercised will turn into a frustrated animal and as a result such dogs tend to damage furniture or shoes which is a sign of a dog that is frustrated. Working line German Shepherds are more appropriate for people who enjoy running, exercising and other physical activities that can provide enough exercise for your dog. German shepherd health issues German shepherds tend to have joint problems as they age. If you notice that your dog is beginning to have trouble walking take it to the veterinarian. Your veterinarian can prescribe the appropriate medication that will help your aging dog with the joint pain. German shepherds are also predisposed to hip dysplasia. For healthy German Shepherds and for German Shepherds with joint issues or arthritis, getting a good quality orthopedic dog bed allow him to get a good rest. The dog may start preferring sleeping in his own bed rather than trying to take over yours. Pannus, which is an inflammation of the corneas of both eyes is a common eye disease that affects mainly German shepherds and German shepherd mixes. Bloat is another dangerous condition that German Shepherds are susceptible to. Signs of bloat include the dog trying to vomit but nothing or little comes out, the dog appears uncomfortable, whining, pacing, sitting up or getting back down in an effort to eliminate the discomfort. Obvious abdominal pain, abdomen may feel tight, like the skin of a drum, heavy salivating and the dog may go into shock where the gums turn pale color, elevated heartbeat and irregular, shallow breathing may be observed. Take the dog to the veterinarian immediately if you see any of these signs of bloat as bloat can turn deadly within an hour. Call your vet and let the vet know that the dog is potentially suffering from bloat before you leave your home so that the veterinarian will be prepared to take care of the dog as soon as possible. To minimize the risk of German Shepherd developing bloat, feed the dog twice a day and use slow feeder dog bowl that helps to slow down a fast eater. The dog should eat in a calm state of mind as an excited dog swallows more air along with food, which is associated with bloat. German shepherd origin German shepherds originate in Germany and their ancestors were the shepherding dogs. The breed was created by Max von Stephanitz in .Max von Stephanitz started a breeding program using the best dogs he could find in order to create an exceptional working dog. Back when the breed was developed, shepherds needed a dog that could do more than push a few sheep around. The dog had to have a good nose for tracking a lost sheep. They needed a helper that could work all day, that was fast and could work independently. As a result the German shepherd breed was developed. Compare German Shepherd to other large dog breeds. Marissa Taffer is a consultant, writer and strategist based in Philadelphia. She lives and works with her rescue dog Charlie, a certified therapy dog. But have you wondered if the German shepherd makes a good pet? Learn all about this magnificent breed and decide if adding one to your family is the right choice. About the German shepherd German Shepherds are commonly used as working dogs, and for good reason. They are loyal, protective and agile dogs. The average German shepherd stands between 22 and 26 inches tall and weighs anywhere from 50 pounds. Male dogs fall to the higher end of this range and females on the lower end. As their name implies, the German shepherd originated in Germany. In the late s a a German cavalry officer, Captain Max von Stephanitz began working to breed the ideal German herding dog. He bred herding dogs that at the time had some variety from district to district in the region until the breed began to resemble the German shepherd we see today. As there became less of a need for livestock herding, he promoted these dogs as working dogs — great for police and military work. Which is why they still hold many of these jobs today. When bringing a German Shepherd into your home, you want to ensure your dog will have a job to do. Otherwise, this pro can quickly become a con. Loyal to family In addition to making a great working dog, the German shepherd can be trained as a personal protection dog for the family. This works well because these dogs form deep bonds with their families and can naturally become very protective. While these dogs may easily learn to watch over your kids, remember not to leave young children unattended with dogs. Do well in almost any climate From warm weather too cooler temperatures, these dogs can live and work in any climate. Their double coat keeps them warm in the winter but also protects them from the sun and extreme heat in the summer. Like any other breed you still want to ensure they have access to shelter when needed as extreme temperatures can increase the risk of things like frostbite and hypothermia or heat stroke. Attractive dogs These handsome dogs come in a wide variety of colors. These include black, blue, grey and even white. Active and need a high level of exercise Although this can fall into the pro column for families who are very active, it is important to remember that these dogs need to work. So, you need to make sure you have a plan to give your pup enough physical and mental exercise to keep them happy and healthy every single day. With a life expectancy anywhere from years, this is a lifetime commitment. Even as these dogs age and start to slow down, they will still need some work to do that is appropriate for their level of fitness. This type of personality can come in handy for certain types of working dogs. With a family pup, it might mean you need to bring strangers into the house slowly and carefully. When having a party, be sure to give your dog a quiet place to retreat to if they become overwhelmed. Some German Shepherds bark…a lot If you live in close proximity to some neighbors, they may not appreciate a pup who can turn up the bark volume at every person, squirrel or leaf that blows by. In order to minimize barking, German shepherd owners can teach their pup the quiet cue and reinforce being quiet instead of barking. Is a German shepherd a good family dog? The short answer is maybe. It really depends on your family and your lifestyle. It is important that potential owners of German shepheds have a plan to ensure that their dogs have a job to do and enough space to get some exercise. Like any other dog, German shepherds need proper training and socialization. This means exposing your dog to as many people, places and things as possible when they are young. You also want to make sure your dog is under you control. A 90 pound German Shephard dragging you around town can be downright dangerous, so leash manners are a must. A good and reliable sit, down and come will also help you keep your dog well under your control. At Ollie , we know a thing or two about feeding German shepherds. This breed is one of the 10 most popular of all of our customers. German shepherd parents know Ollie will deliver delicious and nutritious food their pups will beg for meal after meal. Our recipes packed with human grade carefully selected proteins and combined with delicious and wholesome high quality fruit, vegetables and grains will keep your best friend full, happy and healthy. The Ollie blog is devoted to helping pet parents lead healthier lives with their pups. If you want to learn more about our fresh, human-grade food, check out MyOllie. The German Shepherd is a well-rounded breed of dog and there is a reason for its popularity among dog lovers! They are usually very easy to train and learn quickly, due to their love of learning and how much they love being with their owners. Loyalty The German Shepherd also has a reputation for being an extremely loyal breed of dog. There have been stories throughout the years describing the loyalty of the German Shepherd, from the German Shepherd who helped keep a child alive to the German Shepherd who died protecting his beloved owner. These stories of the heroism of a German Shepherd are not few and far between, either. All over the world, the loyalty of the German Shepherd is renowned and celebrated by fans of the breed. Affectionate In addition to their loyalty, German Shepherds also tend to be a very affectionate breed of dog. They are quick to bond with their owner though sometimes this bond maybe with only one person in the household! While they can vary from dog to dog in how cuddly they are, there is a universal level of affection in the German Shepherd breed and all of them generally enjoy being around their owners and being directly involved in the goings on of a household. Guard Dog German Shepherds also make excellent guard dogs , even if they never receive the proper training to do so. As part of their often extreme loyalty to their owners, the breed has very high protective instincts which makes them a great choice for those who are looking for a dog to watch over their house and deter potential thieves and attackers. Athletic Another big pro of the German Shepherd breed is their athleticism, high energy level, and good work ethic. These dogs love being active! The German Shepherd is a popular choice for those who enjoy physical activities such as hiking , running , swimming , or other sports. German Shepherds do well in the rural countryside and in the heart of the city. Provided their physical and mental needs are being met, they make great dogs for apartment or condo living. They also do well in a variety of weather and temperatures, from hotter parts of the world to some of the coldest and wettest locations. Their intelligence, loyalty, and bravery also mean they are less likely to shy away from new experiences and encounters though this can vary based on their individual history and socialization training. Family Dog The German Shepherd also has a well-earned reputation for being a great family dog. Provided they are trained from a young age and socialized appropriately, German Shepherds do very well with children of all ages and sizes. They can thrive in busy family environments and their loyal and affectionate nature means they are often gentle and patient with children. They also tend to have a higher level of tolerance than other breeds, and as long as the children have been taught how to interact with dogs in an appropriate and safe way, a German Shepherd is likely quite happy to indulge a child in their often unique play scenarios and environments. While their popularity has its own set of pros and cons which we discuss in part below , in general, the popularity of the German Shepherd makes them easy to locate if you are on the search for one. In addition to rescues, there is a large network of reputable German Shepherd breeders who strive to highlight the best of the breed while reducing the number of genetic issues the breed currently faces. Health Issues Unfortunately, one of the biggest cons to the German Shepherd breed is a plethora of health-related issues. Due to poor breeding over the years which is also discussed further down in this list , the German Shepherd tends to be prone to genetic conditions such as hip dysplasia , elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. While there are many other potential health issues German Shepherds may face, these three health conditions are the most prominent and most common. While each of these disorders and many others have testing available for dogs that someone is considering breeding, many unethical breeders choose not to conduct those genetic tests and thus the conditions are still widely seen in the breed as a whole. German Shepherds are also prone to diet sensitivities, skin conditions, heart problems, and certain cancers. Grooming Requirements While there are certainly other breeds of dogs that require much more grooming than the German Shepherd such as the Siberian Husky or many of the Poodle crosses , the German Shepherd does still require a moderate amount of care when it comes to their coats. Depending on the coat type of your German Shepherd, they may require weekly brushing to avoid matting and at least twice per year a German Shepherd will shed heavily check out our article on how to deal with the shedding! However, they do not require shaving or any type of breed cuts unlike the Poodle and other breeds who require more specific grooming to maintain their coat health. Separation Anxiety One of the not-so-nice reputations that the German Shepherd has gained is their propensity for separation anxiety. This is largely due to their loyalty to their owners and their dislike of being left alone for long periods of time, and much of the time the anxious behaviors are not clinical separation anxiety that requires veterinary intervention but rather separation anxiety that can be dealt with under the guidance of a reputable trainer or behaviorist. If a German Shepherd is not conditioned to being away from their owners and left alone for long periods of time, they may develop anxious and destructive behaviors including chewing, digging, scratching, and excessive vocalization such as howling and whining. Poor Breeding As we discussed above, the popularity of the German Shepherd makes them easy to find but this popularity has also resulted in poor breeding and many unethical breeders who choose to breed for profit rather than for the love of the breed. There are many, many backyard breeders and puppy mills dedicated to the German Shepherd and it can be difficult to locate a well-bred dog from a reputable breeder. This poor breeding has led to many of the genetic issues the breed faces, as well as a risk for increased aggression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders in the breed. Behavioral Issues As with many breeds of dogs, the behavioral issues a German Shepherd displays are largely related to their genetics and how they were raised. In line with the poor breeding practices of many German Shepherd breeders, certain behavioral issues can be present in the breed. This can include an increased level of aggression and lower tolerance to external stimuli, obsessive-compulsive disorders such as circling and pacing or chewing of themselves or others, excessive licking , excessive fear responses, and other genetic issues as a result of poor breeding. Energy Requirements One of the pros of a German Shepherd is their athleticism and high energy levels, but this can also be considered a con for some, especially if you have two German Shepherds. If a German Shepherd is not adequately exercised both physically and mentally , they risk developing destructive habits and other behavioral issues that can be hard to fix. Vocal Dogs For some the bark of the German Shepherd is plus, but for many others, their love of barking, whining, and expressing themselves vocally might be a bit too much. This is especially true if you live in an apartment or neighborhood setting. While this vocalization can be reduced if the dogs are given plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, it can be a lengthy and sometimes frustrating experience trying to deter the barking. Investment This last con is not exclusive to German Shepherds, but the breed may be more prone to being an expensive dog to keep due to their larger size and potential for health-related issues. As a larger breed of dog, German Shepherds require a larger amount of food which can add up over time. In addition, the breed does frequently experience dietary issues so special foods with limited ingredients or more unique protein sources might also increase their food bill. Due to the risks of health issues such as dysplasias and other genetic conditions, German Shepherds also often require additional health screenings and veterinary care especially in their senior years to help manage these issues. Outside of monetary investment, German Shepherds also require a hefty dose of energy investment from their owners. As a high-energy breed, they need frequent and vigorous physical exercise. Their high intelligence also means they can get bored easily so they will need more mental stimulation as well. The German Shepherd is also very owner-oriented and so many require quite a bit of affection and attention from their owners which can sometimes be difficult for owners to deal with if they want some time alone. The benefits of getting a puppy include being able to really shape the puppy and ensure that you have a well socialized, happy, and healthy German Shepherd once they reach adulthood. The downsides to getting a puppy include having to go through the potty training process, the teething phase, and the general work that comes with having a curious young pup! The benefits of getting an adult German Shepherd include little to minimal work when it comes to potty training, less or no mouthiness, and many adult German Shepherds who have already received basic training. The risks of getting an adult German Shepherd include training issues for dogs who received poor socialization as a puppy, bad habits that have been instilled in them by previous owners and which may require some work to change, and less time with your German Shepherd as they may already be well into their adult or even senior years. Getting A German Shepherd From A Shelter With pet overpopulation at an all-time high, adopting a German Shepherd from a shelter or rescue group is a great option to help a dog who is at risk and to open up space in the shelter or rescue for another dog. Due to their extreme popularity, you can frequently find purebred German Shepherds at many local shelters. Purebred puppies are also frequently available during the peak of puppy season. There are also a variety of German Shepherd rescue groups throughout the country , and many of these groups can arrange for the transportation of your newly adopted dog through a network of volunteers. Visiting with the German Shepherd you are interested in will allow you to see if there are any concerning behaviors, and oftentimes many shelters and rescue groups have a full history of the dog and insight into their behaviors and health. While some rescue Shepherds may require a little bit of initial work, their intelligence, trainability, and need for affection usually mean they are quick to learn and adapt to their new home and lifestyle. Getting A German Shepherd From A Breeder If you opt to go the breeder route to get your German Shepherd, make sure you are very thorough in your research when choosing which breeder to get your pup from. As we discussed above, the popularity of the German Shepherd has led to a lot of poor breeding practices. Backyard breeders and those who primarily post their puppies through social media and sales sites should be avoided. Similarly, any breeder who does not allow you to come and visit the parents of the puppies or who does not want you to see where the puppies are being raised is another red flag. Responsible breeders will have contracts that go with their puppies, and they should also be providing you with the genetic test results that prove their dogs are healthy and free of any genetic defects like degenerative myelopathy. Female German Shepherds should also get breaks in between litters and there should not be back-to-back breedings so she is allowed time to recover from each litter. Unethical breeders care little for the health of their German Shepherds and many will breed their dogs constantly resulting in strain on the mother and unhealthy puppies. Good places to start your research for ethical and responsible German Shepherds include German Shepherd breed clubs , local dog clubs, the AKC website, and through word of mouth with other German Shepherd lovers. Closing Thoughts German Shepherds are a wonderful breed of dog, but they might not be the dog for everyone. Carefully considering what a German Shepherd requires and how those needs fit into your own lifestyle is part of responsible pet ownership. If you like the look but not the breed, consider finding a dog that looks similar to a German Shepherd instead. Researching where and how you will get your new pup is the next step, whether you are opting to go through a responsible breeder or adopting from a shelter or rescue. My 2 German Shepherds and 1 Siberian Husky mix keep my busy, along with my 8 cats I am also a crazy cat lady and my axolotl Fin Diesel he's all about family. 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Harsh punishment during house training. And one important factor for this stinky act is the influence of other dogs. And who is the most influential to your pooch? His mother, of course. They lick the puppies as a way of encouraging them to pass their bowels. And when the little ones do, mommy dog will clean them up by eating their feces. Because of this, puppies develop the habit of eating poop. But it is not only mommy who is at fault. Having more than one German Shepherd, or several dog breeds, under one roof leads to imitation. It is not surprising if they begin to act alike or share the same habits, like snacking on poop. Your four-legged pal is snacking on poop! Stop him, of course! While veterinarians like Dr. Hart revealed that eating poop is natural for canines, it is still important to end the behavior. Well, for one, you would not want to kiss and cuddle with a pooch that reeks of stinking feces! But that is the least of your concerns. It can cause serious health issues, such as parasitic infections. Why is your German Shepherd buddy feasting on disgusting feces? Is he eating enough? And getting all the nutrients that his body needs? Are you giving him enough attention? Or maybe he is suffering from a medical condition? Prompt identification of what is causing the problem is crucial in solving it. But more than that, it will frighten you. What is wrong with my furbaby? A proper health check will reveal things that will help you understand why your dog is acting that way. More importantly, you will be able to find out whether your canine buddy is suffering from an illness or not. And you can help him before it gets too late. From there, you and the vet can develop a plan of action that can help your dog, like giving the necessary medications and administering proper treatments. If it is, then the solution is easy. All you have to do is provide a complete and balanced meal for your big buddy. Omega 3 fatty acids from vegetables. Healthy fat from sources that contain fish oil. Small amounts of digestible carbohydrates from barley, oats, and rice. High-quality protein from whole meat sources like beef and organ meats. The most common deficiency is that of Vitamin B. If this is the case, consider this: What is in the food you give your German Shepherd? Do you feed him enough? Does he need supplements? Consult your vet to find the answers. Then, you can give your pooch the proper supplements he needs to stay healthy and fit. This does not only refer to the inside of the house. The yard also needs to be kept clean, especially if this is where your dog takes his dump. As soon as your German Shepherd does his business, pick up his poop. This might sound like the simplest and most obvious thing to do. Because when he gets bored, he can start munching on anything he finds, poop included. But, attention alone is not enough to keep your pooch away from poop. Proper supervision is essential in stopping coprophagia. Distract the eager canine when he starts sniffing on something debatable. And keep him away from places where there is bound to be dirt and poop. Note: Put your German Shepherd on a leash when you go on walks. But also give him time to run freely in a safe environment, a dog park, for example. And the best way to avoid this feeling is not to punish them. If a German Shepherd is punished for pooping in the house, he may eat his poop in order to get rid of it. This is his attempt to remove the reason which he gets punished for. So, instead of punishing your dog, you can potty train him more effectively. Because if you are too hard on him, you can ruin your relationship. When you successfully do this, your big buddy will slowly ignore his waste after taking a dump. Reward him with a quick treat when he comes to you afterward. This will make him salivate, allowing him to naturally wash his own mouth. Let your dog chew on a dental stick or treat. Just be careful not to push your fingers too far in or your dog might gag. Conclusion It is uncomfortable, disgusting, and quite disappointing to know that your German Shepherd is eating poop. But remember, dogs are inclined to do it. Once you put the tips above into action, your dog will surely steer away from the unwanted behavior. Just make sure you couple your actions with patience, understanding, and love for your best buddy. They may act inappropriately or display unwanted aggression toward something harmless. Other times, canines follow instincts that have no basis with humans. Perhaps one of the most unpleasant aspects of pet ownership is coprophagy or eating stool. German Shepherds are just as likely to show this unwanted behavior as any other breed. Some may theorize that instinctive drives are stronger in these dogs because of their resemblance to their wild counterparts. However, there are also other reasons why it occurs that may have health or behavioral roots. Knowing the cause can help you find a way to stop it. New evidence suggests a different path where the two species share a common ancestor. That means some of the hardwiring that existed in the wild may still reside in your German Shepherd. Their canine ancestors lived a life of feast or famine. Coprophagy may be a remnant of those survival instincts. Image Credit: cvop, Pixabay 2. Other animals will also eat feces, such as rabbits, nonhuman primates, and rodents. Maternal Instinct Is at Work Dogs are born helpless at birth. They are utterly dependent upon their mothers. That even covers the most basic things, such as staying warm or eliminating. A female will lick the puppies to encourage them to urinate and defecate. To protect them and themselves, the pup will clean up after the offspring. Another health condition that occurs frequently is thyroid disease. That can manifest itself in stool-eating behavior. Some disorders cause an abnormal increase in appetite, which a pup tries to meet this way. The bacteria interfere with the absorption of nutrients, which a pup will try to meet with other inappropriate sources. A Parasitic Infection May Encourage This Undesirable Behavior An intestinal parasitic infestation can cause similar symptoms, such as an abnormal appetite. The parasites consume the nutrients that the German Shepherd should get from its diet. Dogs can get infected in various ways. One of the most common is eating the feces of other animals, such as rabbits. This breed is an affectionate and loyal dog that is prone to separation anxiety if left alone too often. Failure to provide a mentally stimulating environment can set up the perfect storm for the pet to pick up undesirable behaviors, such as coprophagy. Image Credit: Vach cameraman, Shutterstock Controlling the Problem The first step toward stopping this problem is getting your dog a thorough examination by a vet. As our list shows, several medical reasons may prompt this behavior. Nutrient deficiencies are another common cause. A supplement is also an appropriate way to treat this condition. Your vet will likely recommend follow-up testing if a medical cause is behind the problem. The next steps may focus on the behavioral side. Factors such as separation anxiety or long stretches in a crate can cause a dog to act in this manner. You should also take an active role in preventing it while on walks or at the doggy park. Some of the canine instincts may not make sense to us. Nevertheless, they are perfectly normal in the canine world. Fortunately, correcting unwanted habits like stool eating is possible. It involves finding out the cause behind it and taking the appropriate actions. He Wants to be Clean There is a Lack of Nutrients in His Diet Knowing the reasoning behind why your German Shepherd eats poop will help you understand and hopefully be less grossed out by the entire thing. It Tastes Good What may send us humans gagging and running out of the bathroom is rather pleasing to your German Shepherd. Sounds a bit crazy, right? To your German Shepherd, though, he is looking at a tasty treat that not only looks great but smells fantastic. This is mostly because your dog is able to smell the last food they consumed, which makes this pile of dog doo an even more appetizing meal. Remember that German Shepherds are incredibly smart and easy to train. You should be able to train your dog to stay away from his feces quickly. This means that the food is almost in the same condition as it was when it was originally served. There should still be huge chunks of remaining food left in the stool. However, you can try and train your German Shepherd to slow down. A slow feeder bowl 3. The first natural instinct of a dog is to be a scavenger. Before German Shepherds were introduced to the family as a domesticated pet, they lived in the wild. Dogs had to find their own sources for food. If a predator smells the puppy doo, then they will know there is an easy target nearby for prey. However, grownup German Shepherds should be trained to leave their feces alone and shooed away. Always make sure your German Shepherd as enough to eat so he does not need to scavenge. This is especially true for the larger-sized dogs who have more energy and need to expend their energy in a healthy fashion. Solution: Keeping your German Shepherd active and expending his energy the right way is imperative to fix this problem. Always make sure your dog is given lots of attention as well. Walks and playtime during the day combined with cuddles at night is a great way to keep your German Shepherd happy. Solution: As your German Shepherd puppy gets older and learns where to go potty, he should outgrow the embarrassment and not eat his feces as much. If you have a dog who is particularly interested in having a clean environment to sleep, eat, and play, he will likely start consuming his feces to make his space cleaner. When he has gone to the bathroom, clean it up right away. You would do this for messes in your household, so make sure you are doing it for your pet as well. There is a Lack of Nutrients in His Diet If your dog is lacking any type of nutrients from his diet, he may try to eat his poop to supplement it. Solution: Buy high-quality food and make sure your dog is getting enough to eat. There are many German Shepherd specific dog foods on the market with the proper nutrients to keep him healthy and strong. Related Questions Is it normal for German Shepherds to eat poop? Is it harmful for a dog to eat poop. While a German Shepherd should be okay eating his own feces, problems may occur when your dog starts to consume the poop of other animals. German Shepherds may feast on the feces of cats, birds, deer, etc, which can sometimes lead to an infection that needs to be treated by a veterinarian. Most of the time these diseases will clear up on their own. However, if you notice your German Shepherd is beginning to vomit and have excessive diarrhea he may need immediate help. This is especially true to avoid dehydration and further complications. Trusted by millions of dog lovers worldwide. Coprophagia consumption of feces can be divided into 3 groups. These are: 1. Autocoprophagia: means a dog consuming its own feces 2. Intraspecific coprophagia: the consumption of feces of other dogs 3. Interspecific coprophagia: the consumption of feces of other animals and humans. Studies have shown that, historically, many dogs in developing countries developed a taste for feces while scavenging through trash including feces while trying to scavenge their next meal. While this behavior may seem rather indiscriminate, studies have also shown that the same dogs actually displayed a level of discernment, as they showed a disinclination to consume feces more than 2 days old. Wolves that are old or injured attempt to clean up their den areas that are shared with others by eating their feces. This is because they are intuitievely aware that the feces contains parasites. By consuming the feces within two days of defecating, it is ensured that the feces will be consumed before any parasite eggs hatch and infect any other wolves present. While there are many reasons why GSDs may eat poop, some of the most common reasons are as follows: Underfeeding Hungry dogs, dogs who do not eat regularly, or are starving are more likely to eat the feces of other dogs, animals, and humans. Dogs that eat only once a day and start eating poop may need more daily meals. Malabsorption Sometimes a GSD will eat feces if he is fed poor quality food long-term, especially if the food is high in fat content. Eating poop can also occur in dogs that are nervous, frightened, or under the influence of stress. Stress is a common cause of behavioral problems in dogs. If you feel that this may be the case with your GSD, it may be wise to consult with a dog trainer or behaviorist. A solution may be as simple as alleviating boredom. Other times, a GSD may see another dog eating feces, so he will want to try it too. It is also not uncommon for a young puppy to see his mother eating feces. It is common for a puppy to then simply imitate the behavior. Punishment If a GSD is being verbally scolded for pooping in the house, he may resort to eating his own feces in an attempt to make it disappear — no body, no crime! It is for this reason that it is very important to never scold your dog for pooping in the house. The true solution is proper potty training. For a detailed understanding of how to potty train your GSD puppy, I have written an excellent article for you right here. For example, when intestinal parasites are present, they exhaust the body and draw nutrients from it, causing your dog to feel increased hunger. A very common cause of this issue in German shepherds can be the Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency EPI. This is a condition characterized by a lack of digestive enzymes, which results in the inability to digest food properly, and thus leads to the inability to absorb nutrients. A dog suffering from this disease loses weight despite its good appetite and suffers from frequent and abundant diarrhea. Diabetes One of the causes of increased appetite and coprophagia as well can be diabetes. When cortisol levels are too high or too low, it can cause a host of problems. Attention-Seeking Behavior A German Shepherd may eat poop simply as a way provoke his owner into reacting. This is not too different than the behavior of a child when it wants attention. And, just like when dealing with a child, it is very important that you keep your cool if this is happening with your GSD. Reacting to it will only serve to reinforce the behavior. Forced and Restricting Confinement German Shepherds need space. This is why we highly recommend owning a GSD only if you have a large living space and preferably a yard. This is very common in GSDs that have been rescued after spending time in a crowded shelter. For more information on German Shepherd space requirements, check out this great article that we have for you right here. Living In Isolation German Shepherds are especially social dogs — much more so than other breeds. It is for this reason that they do not do well living in isolation. In fact, GSDs are highly susceptible to separation anxiety. As previously mentioned, anxiety can be a cause for poop eating behavior. For more information on GSD separation anxiety, take a look at this informative article. Unfortunately, there is no magic bullet for this one. There are, however, a few actions that you can take to curb this behavior if you feel that it is problematic. Make sure that you guide him away from eating poop while the behavior is under your control Properly Socialize Your German Shepherd As a German shepherd owner, you have to be prepared for long walks and running, because your dog needs them, at least twice a day. If possible, allow your dog to socialize with other dogs, which, along with a quality relationship with his owner, will help help him to avoid boredom and anxiety — both common reasons for a dog eating poop. A happy and occupied GSD will be less likely to engage in poop eating behavior. For a through guide on how to socialize your German Shepherd, we have a great article for you right here. It contains all that you need to know in order to successfully socialize your GSD. Instead of one meal, divide the daily amount of food into several meals, so that your dog does not feel hungry during the day. In my experience, dogs that eat balanced raw or cooked foods are less likely to consume feces. Feed Your German Shepherd a Holistic Diet Feeding a holistic diet to your dog works to get to the root of a problem, rather than just addressing the symptoms as they arise. For example, using an anti-itch cream may lessen the desire to itch, but it will not address the underlying problem. A holistic diet works to resolve the issue of your dog itching in the first place. Think of resolving health or behavioral issue as a series of connecting the dots — this can be a complicated process. A holistic approach to feeding your dog can make it so that there are no dots to connect in the first place by erasing the cause of them. The fundamentals of a holistic diet include: Probiotics: great for digestive system support Prebiotics: great for digestive system support High-quality protein: based in fish, beef, pork, or chicken Herbs: great to prevent inflammation Vitamins: essential for overall organ and bone health Minerals: essential for overall organ and bone health Antioxidants: great for immune system support and disease prevention Fiber: great for digestive system support Whole grains: contain high-quality carbohydrates for energy If preparing a holistic diet for your GSD is too time consuming for you, a great alternative is Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food. This blend contains ingredients that include precise amounts of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that have been selected by animal nutritionists and, importantly, holistic veterinarians. In addition, if your GSD is suffering from diarrhea or related issues, beneficial bacterias in probiotics are a great way to boost them back to normal levels. These products usually come in different forms, such as yogurt, kefir, powders, capsules, chews, or dog foods. This probiotic contains a blend of 7 selected species of live beneficial bacteria with added Inulin. Your GSD is likely acting out of instinct, stress, or as an attempt to resolve a digestive or health issue. Just remember to be patient and understanding with your GSD, and have confidence that you will be able to curb this behavior. German Shepherds may eat their own poop for any number of reasons. Dietary deficiency, diseases, copycat behavior, behavioral problems, and even ancient genetic instincts may be reasons why your GSD eats their own stool, as the American Kennel Club AKC points out. This term applies equally to dogs, cats, and other pets. In the rest of this article, we will talk about the many reasons why you might catch your German Shepherd eating their own stool. While it is unlikely your dog is physically feeling hunger pangs when they go to eat their stool, it is quite possible there is an underlying dietary deficiency driving the behavior. As VCA Animal Hospitals explains, dietary deficiency in dogs can arise from a number of different potential causes. As this iFeeder report indicates, analyzing pet foods is big business in and of itself, and there is a lot of money riding on manufacturer reputation. So often you have to look for other clues — such as poop eating — to detect when there may be a mismatch. When a dog is missing certain vital nutrients, they may go back to their own poop to try to absorb more nutrition from each portion of the food they eat. This is a practice that is so essential for some mammals such as guinea pigs that they die if not permitted to engage in coprophagy. Luckily, dogs do not have a genetic nutritional need to eat their poop. But they may do so if their diet is chronically lacking. Your dog has parasites When your dog has parasites, they are essentially eating for the parasites as well as for their own health and nutrient needs. Unfortunately, eating poop is one of the primary ways that a dog can pick up parasites like hookworm, roundworm, and whipworm in the first place, as Vetz Insight explains. But it is not the only potential trigger. Deficiencies in certain key digestive enzymes may also be a culprit. As PetMD explains, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, or EPI, is the best-known medical problem that can result in coprophagy in dogs. The pancreas is responsible for producing a number of important digestive enzymes along with insulin. The latter is caused by defective cells. The former can be genetic or induced and may also be triggered by canine diabetes. Ongoing issues with diarrhea. Increased stool output. Eating stool. Interestingly, some German Shepherds that only seem to want to eat the stool of a particular dog may actually be responding to disease in the other dog. This can include stool, although it can also extend to other non-food objects like rocks, grass, leaves, stones, sticks, fabrics, and more. While most cases of pica are considered to be linked to behavior rather than medical problems, with coprophagy there can be a clear medical component as well. If your German Shepherd has a tendency to eat poop and other items that are not on the menu of a typical canine or are not on any menu at all , your pet may be suffering from pica. Your German Shepherd Dog Eats Poop for Behavioral Reasons If your dog has been evaluated and tested and your canine veterinarian has ruled out a possible medical cause for coprophagia, the other main area to look at is behavioral. In other words, German Shepherds that are healthy otherwise may still choose to eat their own poop. But why, you are probably wondering? This is what we will look at in the next section. GSD puppies, like all puppies, rely on the mother dog to lick them and remind them to do their business. Learning how to poop on their own is a big part of early puppyhood. It is a big deal! When your GSD puppy came home with you, potty training became a big part of daily life. Your puppy probably got lots of attention and praise when it was potty time and things went well. In the same way, if your puppy pooped in the house, they likely got quite a bit of attention for this as well — you might not have been happy about it, but your puppy was because your attention was focused on them. As Canine Journal explains, a poorly trained and socialized or previously traumatized German Shepherd may resort to poop eating rather than seeking attention in more positive and acceptable ways. This outdated and ineffective form of training is now thought to actually encourage coprophagia in dogs that have been subjected to it. The dog may start to eat their poop to hide it and avoid further discipline. Along the same lines, German Shepherd dogs can be especially prone to developing separation anxiety, which is another behavioral issue that is linked to poop eating. Your German Shepherd is acting out of instinct While this explanation walks a fine line between genetics and behavior, wild canid females have often been observed eating the feces of their young to try to remove the scent and throw potential predators off the trail. But what about when male puppies or adult GSDs do this? In this case, canid behaviorists think it may have to do with puppies watching their mother eat poop and picking up the behavior from her. After all, canid pups in the wild have to learn everything from their mother and would be carefully watching and mimicking everything she does — including eating their own poop. According to a research study reported in Live Science , the majority of dog owners that have tried to discourage stool eating in their dogs have experienced low or no success. However, this is not to say it is impossible to train your dog not to eat their own poop. You will just need a lot of patience and persistence to find what works to discourage your German Shepherd from eating poop. This will require consistent, determined effort on your part. You will need to watch your GSD closely on potty breaks and quickly remove the feces and dispose of it in a secure location. If your dog goes out at night or early in the morning, you will need to bring a flashlight to make sure you see where the poop is and can pick it up right away. Then you will reinforce this with praise, pats, treats, and attention. This way, you always know where to look to pick up the stool and your GSD is not lingering near it long enough to potentially eat it. But to dogs, it is quite possible they just eat poop because they like it! This can have an unexpected benefit if you need to train your GSD not to eat their own poop. As PetCareRX highlights, there are soft chews and additives available that may change the taste of the poop to make it undesirable. Foods like zucchini and pineapple can also change the tastebuds and may make poop and everything else taste different from your dog. Use a head or muzzle restraint This is not an ideal choice for training your German Shepherd dog not to eat poop for two reasons. One, restraints can be difficult to manage and your dog may be very determined to get out of a neck cone or head collar. And two, if your dog decides to mash their muzzle or restraint down on the poop to try to eat it anyway, then you have to clean it and your dog. But if nothing else is working, it is certainly worth a try. For example, if your GSD has developed separation anxiety, this can require special and intense training to overcome. You may need to temporarily put your dog in a daycare program or hire a dog sitter to keep your anxious GSD from eating their own poop. Alternately, if your German Shepherd hates their crate or some other aspect of their living space, you may need to explore an alternate arrangement for when you need to confine your dog. German Shepherds are extremely intelligent working dogs that have been bred for more than a century to work hard at difficult, demanding, and sometimes dangerous jobs. Your dog may be bored and lonely and acts out because eating poop is something to do to fill the time. You may find that adding more canine athletics, taking your dog for more walks, adding some additional playtime, and using more puzzle toys and treat toys work to tire out your dog and keep poop eating behavior at bay. Remember, above all else, your German Shepherd dog wants your attention, time, and love. More of you often equals less eating poop.