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Many pet owners, especially those who are the lucky recipients of a golden retriever's love, make sure to honor their birthdays as well. And what are some ideas on how to throw a golden retriever birthday party? Imagination is the key. A sense of humor goes a long way. But most of all, recognizing your golden retriever's special day is much like planning a human birthday party! The most important thing to do when planning a party for your golden retriever and his or her golden retrievergie friends, is to find a secure area. Area where DOGS won't run the risk of getting away from owners, lost or confused. Don't invite every friend in your Golden retriever birthday party. Don't invite every friend and neighbor who has a DOG to your Golden retriever birthday party. But invite only the DOGS that your own pooch is familiar with. No sense in testing fate, so keep it simple and golden retrievergie-friendly for the special birthday boy or girl. Remember to keep the size of your birthday area in mind when inviting other DOGS as well as their owners to your party. Other ideas of throwing a golden retriever birthday party encompass decorations and food to be served at this special event. When decorating with lights, crepe paper or ribbons, streamers or balloons, keep such items away from DOGS that may want to eat them. Some DOGS love to pop balloons. So you may want to keep a few extra balloons blown up for the games portion of the party. But make sure that you retrieve plastic discards as soon as possible. This will prevent DOGS from eating or chewing on plastic or rubber parts and strings. Remove items that you don't want damaged before the golden retriever birthday party. Remember, as with human children, DOGS can make a mess, so make sure you remove items that you don't want damaged from the 'play area' before the golden retriever birthday party. When DOGS start playing, everything in their path is fair game. So take a look through the area beforehand to save yourself frustration or grief. Remember, this was your idea, so don't leave anything to chance. This is a special day for your golden retriever and guests. So no one should be punished if anything gets broken. Guests may even take turns with Frisbees and other activities in birthday golden retriever party. DOGS are easy to entertain, and guests may even take turns with Frisbees, tennis balls and other activities for the birthday golden retriever party. In summertime, a small wading pool provides plenty of amusing entertainment for DOGS and people alike. But be forewarned that when they shake, you may get drenched. Dont forget the golden retriever birthday cake. The birthday golden retriever and guests, as well as human counterparts, are likely to be hungry, so make sure you have food for both available. If you wish, bake your golden retriever birthday cake made of various, DOG friendly ingredients. But remember to avoid chocolate Chocolate is poisonous for Golden retriever dogs. And keep plenty of water on hand for the thirsty participants. No matter what, have fun, make sure that your golden retriever and guests are safe, and enjoy the celebration! Well why not make their day extra special with a Golden Retriever birthday card? Delight a dog lover or your precious pup today in a few simple steps. You can always make sure you celebrate every birthday in great style with our range of personalised Golden Retriever birthday cards! Personalised Golden Retriever Birthday Cards Finding a unique and thoughtful Golden Retriever birthday card has never been easier, with our wonderful selection to choose from! Impress the dog lovers in your life with a Golden Retriever birthday card that is bound to be the centre of attention, just like your pup! Make sure to expect smiles and tail wags all round, when you give your loved one a personalised Golden Retriever card. Finding the pawfect personalised card is a little way to make a big impression, and we have more personalised Golden Retriever cards than you can shake a stick at! Personalised Golden Retriever Birthday Gifts Why not go the extra mile and pair your personalised Golden Retriever card with a matching personalised Golden Retriever gift? Explore our fabulous range of Golden Retriever birthday gifts that are bound to delight any dog lover in your life! Kick back and relax with your favourite personalised Goldie mug whilst you unwind after a busy day. Run With The Pack.

We work hard to maintain the highest standards of health and pedigrees to ensure that our puppies grow into healthy and happy adults. That is how we match french bulldog puppies with their families forever. We are dedicated to providing you with the best service and support throughout the entire process, from selecting your frenchton to bringing them home We certainly know how exciting it is to bring a new french bulldog puppie into the family. For this reason we bring to you the most frequently asked doubts: asked by our frenchies lovers before taking a new puppy home. Are french bulldog easy to train? French bulldog puppies are not the easiest to train, but not the most difficult either. It is important to stick to a routine patiently for 6 to 8 months to let your furry understand it. Please take into account that it is a puppy, from month 8 onwards you can do more strong activities such as jumping or running as it will be appropriately grown to do so. Is french bulldog smart? Tenderly called Frenchies, this breed is considered active, well-behaved and intelligent according to the American Kennel Club AKC , their owners and soon you will too! They are considered the most intelligent breed among bulldogs. French bulldogs puppies like to be the center of attention but are also eager to please their family members. Are french bulldog lazy? This is one of the most common myths about french bulldogs. Are they lazy? Having a proper exercise routine is important to control their weight. Playing with other dogs or with their parents is one of their favorite activities as well, They will be just as happy with you in the car or lying on the couch, but it will be up to you to create healthy and active habits for them. If you are in search of a high quality, superior, champion bred AKC registered blue French bulldog puppy from a trusted and highly reputable breeder, then you've landed on the right webpage. Please feel free to explore our website thoroughly to find out more about this amazing and majestic breed of dog we have come to love and admire. We have very useful information scattered about our website to give you a better understanding of what it is to own a french bulldog and how to care for a brand new puppy in training, like an exotic lilac and tan merle frenchie. We even have the very exotic big rope french bulldog puppies available. Our dogs are very well cared for as part of our canine family. We offer them the best quality health care that's available to us. They are fed quality premium dog food that is age specific and custom blended for their specific diets. They process very good health and are free of any genetic or hereditary diseases to prevent these genes from getting passed along to their offspring. As one of the top leading fluffy french bulldog breeders in the industry, we pride ourselves in the quality of our dogs and customer satisfaction we offer our customers. Our dogs and pups come from the finest bloodlines and have outstanding pedigrees from quality lines from around the world. The dogs we use are very high quality and thus produce puppies with excellent conformation , temperaments and always meet the breed standard. All of our puppies we produce here at Silverblood Frenchies come along with a state of Florida veterinary health certificate, all required vaccinations and a one full year health guarantee. We breed the finest french bulldog puppies of exotic colors and patterns such as merle french bulldogs. Our frenchies produced are blue, isabella, lilac, lilac and tan, chocolate, blue and tan and fluffy french bulldog puppies. For the finest frenchies for sale in the US feel free to contact us at or email us. To Apply or For more info Click Here! The blues looks gray to dark grayish in color and are the first and most popular of the rare colors. Their DNA apears as dd. Blue and Tan Frenchies: This is a blue dog with tan points in specific areas. Eyebrows, cheeks, legs and chest are the main area where these "points" appear. Merle French bulldog : This spotted look is a very fancy, unique and desirable currently. The merle gene is dominant and can come in any of the many colors in the french bulldog breed. Depending on their base color, they can come in many varieties such as lilac merle, blue merle, chocolate merle, blue fawn merle and isabella merle. Merle frenchies for sale. Chocolate French bulldog: Chocolate French bulldogs are also considered exotic. They are now more widely known as coco since the previously unidentified recessive gene has been identified. This coat will appear brownish and usually gives puppies beautiful golden to greenish eyes. Cream French bulldogs: Cream colored dogs are a light cream shade and eventually develop darker coloring around their lips, eyes, nose and paw pads as they mature. Platinum French bulldog: A platinum frenchie is any rare colored french bulldog covered in cream. These dogs will display an apparent dilution in their lips, eyes, nose and paw pads while still cream covered. These dogs are highly desirable for their exotic appearance and for their ability to produce many other rare and exotic colors. Lilac French bulldog : This lilac color is so unique and very attractive. This color occurs when a dog that either is or carrier both blue and chocolate coco is bred with a dog with similar DNA. This puppy will carry two copies of the blue dd dilute gene and two copies of chocolate coco. Lilac frenchies for sale. Isabella French bulldog: Isabella frenchies are stunning and extremely beautiful. This is arguably the most rare of all the french bulldog exotic colors and thus the most valuable. Currently we have isabella french bulldogs for sale. These frenchies will carry 2 copies of the exclusive "testable chocolate" gene better known as "isabella". Not only that but they will also carry two copies of the dd as the diluting agent to turn this "rojo" chocolate into the lighter "Isabella" color. The Rojo variety, which is an isabella dog that has bb but not dd or diluted will be a dark rich chocolate color. The most recognized Isabella variety is an isabella dog that has both bb and dd making it the typical, most recognized light champagne Isabella color. Finally the last is called the New Shade Isabella french bulldog or true lilac isabella. This dog looks very much like a typical isabella but carries all the diluted genes including testable chocolate bb , cocoa coco and blue or dilute dd. Fluffy French bulldogs: Fluffy french bulldog puppies are the most expensive and most amazing frenchies in the world. They are all the rage currently due to their highly exotic appearance and fancy, luxurious, fluffy coats. These long haired frenchies are identical to a standard short hair frenchie with one very obvious difference. These babies will get fluffier as they mature and will be head turners for sure! As far as the french bulldog breed is concerned, the most prevalent genes that offer this exotic look are the L1 and L4 long-haired genes. The dog must possess 2 copies of each or mixed and will produce the same results. Pied French bulldogs: Pied french bulldogs are not exactly a color but rather a color pattern. These dogs may be of any color and hair type. These dogs are typically mostly white with another base color such as blue, chocolate, lilac, isabella, merle or fluffy. Many dislike the pied look while others request them specifically. The pied look can sometimes give french bulldogs a flashy look and is a matter of preference. Big Rope French bulldogs: Big Rope french bulldogs or "Big-Rope Frenchies" are very unique looking french bulldogs with a distinct physical difference. The overall body and appearance between a standard french bulldog and a real Big-Rope french bulldog are practically identical. The only difference is that the Big-Rope frenchie has a beautiful thick, heavy "rope" over its nose. This gives them a very bold and impressive appearance that makes them very attractive and desirable. Since the "big-rope" trait is not specific to any color, then come in every french bulldog imaginable including big rope isabella frenchies. In fact, there are several fluffy big rope frenchies out there now. Their beautiful facial big rope in no way impedes their ability to breathe. We'll have big-rope french bulldog puppies available very soon! Isabella Fluffy French bulldogs: If you are lucky enough to own one of these extremely rare and exotic frenchies, then you must know how fortunate you are. By basically combining the best of both worlds in coat color isabella and coat type fluffy you will get the absolute most gorgeous, valuable and exotic dog in the world! A long haired visual fluffy Isabella frenchie is worth its weight in gold! The first thing you'll need to do is find a reputable and knowledgeable french bulldog breeder. Silverblood Frenchies is not new to "the game". We have been breeding and raising these gorgeous creatures for over 10 years now. We have acquired the experience and knowledge over the years that many new puppy parents wished their breeder had. Every single one of our puppies we sell come with lifetime 24 hour support for their Silverblood Frenchies Puppy for life! Feel free to check out our testimonials page to hear from just a handful of our previous happy customers. June 29, If you are looking to find the perfect French Bulldog puppy to buy and bring to your home this list of the best French Bulldog breeders in Florida will help you. Finding a quality French Bulldog breeder can be a challenge especially with all the scams out there. I personally researched this list to help you get started on your search for a Frenchie puppy of your very own. Even though I did some initial research for you, I highly encourage you still following my tips here on how to find a reputable French Bulldog breeder near you. Be sure to check out their websites, check out their social media, and be sure to have a phone conversation with the breeder to ensure you are getting a healthy and happy Frenchie puppy. Their goal is simple: to give their clients the most preferred, fit, brilliant puppies possible. The French Bulldog being the most popular dog in the world, they want to ensure that every Frenchie has the best life possible. They have specialized in breeding standard and non-standard breeding of Frenchies. Their dogs are AKC registered and fully health tested before leaving their facility. They have 16 years of experience breeding bulldogs and producing quality french bulldog puppies. They breed them in a way that ensures perfect health and a great disposition, so you can expect your puppy to grow into a beautiful adult with no health problems or behavioral issues. In poetic french bulldogs, you will find puppies with unique colors such as blue, chocolate, and lilac. They also offer one-year health assurance for the puppy. From their birth, they were astonished by their love, beauty, and character. Their passion led them to start Pure Devotion Frenchies, where they offer finite, great-bred litters. They are genuinely the best Frenchie you could ever find. They aim to create the best Frenchies possible by breeding them with the best quality dogs they can find. They take time with every puppy they produce and are committed to raising healthy pets with excellent temperaments. Their adults are healthy and have lovely character as well. They raise their puppies with lots of love and care—they feed them a balanced diet and provide proper socialization, exercise and stimulation to maintain their health. As a way of showing care to their dogs, these breeders make sure that the new families offer the same care and respect to the dogs. They breed one type of dog to focus on their needs and health. They aim to produce healthy, beautiful puppies that their new families will love. They select their dogs carefully, choosing only the healthiest dogs with excellent pedigrees to breed their puppies. All of their dogs and puppies are AKC registered. Their puppies go to their new homes with de-worming treatments and are vet-inspected. They are raised in a loving environment and adopted to approved homes only. They love their dogs, and they treat them like members of their own family. They only sell their puppies to pet homes, not kennels, where puppies will not be raised with the love and care they grew with. Phone: Location: Contact the breeder for their location in Florida. Best Friend Frenchies was founded by Brenda and Eric Schaller, who have been breeding dogs for the longest time. That means loving them from birth. Their goal is to provide exceptional service to their clients and French Bulldogs. They are the best French bulldog breeders Florida. They specialize in the rarest colors of the French Bulldog and offer AKC registration so that you can be certain that your puppy comes with both health and structure. Their dog comes with either full or limited registration. They are also able to provide stud services for their clients. Telephone: Website: South Florida Frenchies Bentley Bullies Bentley Bullies have over 20 years of experience breeding french bulldogs and know what it takes to produce healthy puppies with the right temperament. They only sell puppies from their breeding program, meaning every puppy is accompanied by a health certificate from a board-certified veterinarian and a one-year health guarantee. These breeders also provide their clients with references upon request. With their premier French Bulldog breeding program, they have made it their mission to produce quality, healthy, and gorgeous puppies. They do this by keeping in line with high standards for health and structure. They also use DNA testing to ensure each puppy is free from genetic disorders. To make sure that these standards are met, they hand select every dog for breeding. Their puppies are all AKC registered and show quality. They have health guarantees on all their puppies, and their lifetime support will ensure that your pup is taken care of even after it leaves you. Their puppies are given room to roam to be happy and healthy, not caged. Also, they do not breed them in captivity—they breed them with other dogs who are also happy and healthy. Their focus is on quality over quantity. This breeder takes their dogs on vacations, to the beach, bike riding, and every other place they visit. They want their Frenchie to be happy and healthy, so they take them wherever they go. They are very cautious about who wants to adopt their Frenchie. To receive the puppy, you must accept a background check before selling the Frenchie to you. One of the main reasons why they are referred to as the best french bulldog breeders in Florida is the fact that they offer face time calls for you to see how they raise their dogs. They even potty train their dogs. Their main aim is to give the best Frenchie Bulldog Pups possible. They want them to be healthy, happy dogs with the emotional and physical qualities that make the French Bulldog one of the most preferred dogs in America. They are committed to providing the highest quality Frenchie Bulldog Pups, so they only breed with AKC-approved color models and only use high-quality puppy food. They are always cute and love to play. An immaculately cuddly bulldog might just be the perfect family pet. I hope this list of French Bulldog Breeders in Florida gets you started on finding the perfect four-legged companion for your family. If you are looking for French Bulldog breeders in other states this list may be helpful for you:.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Our home-based, family-owned Australian Labradoodle breeding program is located about 50 miles northwest of Chicago. We are committed to breeding authentic, multigenerational Australian Labradoodles with bloodlines originating from the two breeding research centers in Australia, Rutland Manor and Teagan Park. Multigen Australian Labradoodles are consistently non-shedding, allergy and asthma friendly, loving, calm, intuitive and at times quite comical. All of these qualities make them wonderful family companions as well as excellent therapy and service dogs. Raising puppies is a lot of fun but it is also a lot of work!! As a breeder, it is our responsibility to make the most of our puppy's critical growth periods and introduce them to as many new sights, sounds, smells and situations as possible. At birth, days 3 to 16 with Bio Sensor Stimulation, and right through to the day you take your new fur baby home we are handling and socializing our puppies. Ultimately, it is our goal is to provide you with a healthy, well socialized, intelligent, lovable, easily trained doodle that will be a joyful addition to your family for many years to come. As trusted Labradoodle breeders, we take great care to give every visitor the best labradoodle puppies , including the best health characteristics, a gorgeous appearance, and an adoring personality. Australian Labradoodles are hypoallergenic, non-shedding dogs that are easy to train and easy to care for, providing companionship and love without a lot of work. This breed is intelligent, loyal and friendly, providing protection to their owners and family without excessive barking or aggression. Australian Labradoodle puppies exhibit the best characteristics of their parent breeds, the Labrador and the Poodle. Both breeds are famously intelligent, athletic and loyal, with quick learning attributes and mobility that makes them ideal service dogs. With the docile temperament of the Poodle and the athleticism and energy of the Labrador, the Australian Labradoodle is the perfect mix. As a loyal, friendly, gentle and low-upkeep breed, Australian Labradoodle puppies are great with children, and they are also an ideal breed for older couples. Our Australian Labradoodle puppies are bred from our own prized pets, carefully selected to eliminate health defects and enhance the best qualities of the breed. From the day they are born, we treat our Australian Labradoodles like a member of the family until they become a permanent part of yours. Take a look at the Labradoodle Puppies for sale online and select your new pet. Contact us for more information and have your new puppy personally delivered to your home in Chicago. Puppy Spotlight. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near South Chicago Illinois and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in Chicago IL? We have answers. Give me an overview of Labradoodle puppies for sale in Chicago IL. An Australian Labradoodle is a designer dog specifically bred to be the ultimate family companion. How much are Labradoodles for sale Chicago? Will you only connect me with local Labradoodle breeders Chicago? One of the great things about using our network is that our team will connect you with great Labradoodle breeders and businesses around the country, not just in Chicago. How do you screen Labradoodle breeders in Chicago? Bottom line? Why is Uptown Puppies different from other places with Labradoodles Chicago? We made Uptown Puppies to help unite great breeders and businesses with great families—and to help you find a puppy that suits you perfectly. What is a puppy mill for Labradoodle puppies Chicago? Puppy mills are factories for dogs. At mills, dog health and safety go out the window—here, profits are king. When you buy a puppy from a mill, your dog is facing higher risks of genetic disease, behavioral issues, expensive veterinary intervention, and even a shorter life expectancy compared to other dogs. Are there any Labradoodle puppies in Chicago available now? What is the MatchMaker process like for Labradoodle Chicago? In our opinion and according to tons of our customers MatchMaker is the easiest, fastest and most fun way to find a puppy online. I went to meet Mike to talk about an upcoming litter and Bailey was sitting by herself. I pretty much changed my mind and wanted her immediately. She was introduced to a 6 year old cocker spaniel with and IVDD condition and they became best friends. Great Temperament, Incredibly smart and absolutely beautiful addition to my family. Mike has been following up since I got her checking to see if I had any issues. His training packet was detailed and if you follow the crate training and feeding regiment you will have no problems. Angelica I brought home an F2 labradoodle from here. My pups has already learned several commands within a few weeks of having him. The breeder has plenty of space for the pups and you can tell that there is a lot of care put into the environment. My dog has a great temperament and deals with people well. Upon the first meeting my pups was excited to greet people you can tell he had been socialized well. Mike does well with communication and answers any questions. Highly recommended! Javier Sanchez Got my black lab from Mike trained. He is very good and is comfortable with a crate, walking and great temperament. Overall an awesome dog from a great breeder! Maura Eaton My 12 year old son did all the research on Mike and his company. He had 5 star reviews across the board. Once we saw the picture of Zoey, a Chocolate Labradoodle, we knew we had to meet her. Mike's business is clean, the dogs are all loved by him and well trained. Zoey was Stage 1 trained. This is my first dog as an adult and Mike was excellent in providing advice and recommendations. After we adopted Zoey, Mike would periodically check-in on how Zoey was adjusting to her new family and home. As you can see in the pictures, she is very happy. Mike knew her personality well - smart, sweet and social. A perfect fit and addition to our family. He worked on training with the puppy before we brought him home, which was a big help in the adjustment! I would recommend Mike to anyone looking for a labradoodle puppy. Our puppy has been the best addition to our family and we have enjoyed working with Mike. John Schmadeke We were looking for a labradoodle puppy from a reputable and experienced breeder. Mike was super helpful, and we really appreciated that he cared so much about things like genetics and DNA testing for the dogs. Mike has always been available to answer our questions and to give advice. Tom Riniker We found Mike to be very professional, knowledgeable, and helpful when we purchased a puppy from him. His kennels are clean and organized, and his puppies are well cared for. He really loves his career and it shows! He has followed up with us on numerous occasions regarding the health and well-being of our puppy, and I always know I can reach him if I have questions. Thanks for everything, Mike! Yunhua Chen I have bought a stage 2 F1 labradoodle from Mike. His name is Zen, and just like his name, he is a well-behaved and well-trained little man. He only cried about 15 - 30 minutes during the first few nights and later he was sound asleep. I highly recommend Mike as a breeder because not only he deeply cares about the dogs, but also he has the expertise to make the dog the perfect match for you. Michelle Balchunas Mike was absolutely wonderful to deal with and very helpful with adding a new puppy to our family. If you are looking for a lab to add to your family we would highly recommend working with Mike. Charles Arnold Mike was a great help with our new puppy, Archie. Great experience… and a great dog. Junie is gentle, kind and very loving. She's also extremely athletic and smart. Working with Mike was a very smooth process and his "dog siting" service has proved helpful as I do travel on occasion. Having someone I could trust to care for Junie is super helpful. Mike James I recently had the fortunate privilege of working with Mike to find my next pup. For multiple reasons, the breed is perfect for me - the temperament, lifestyle often on the water , and hypoallergenic fits a tough lifestyle. I without hesitation recommend you work with Mike if you are looking for an amazing pup and great support network. Charlie is so gentle. He was just outside getting petted by his fan club, the neighbors. He licks. I got him the week of July 4th he was outside during that noise. He looks at noise. One of his other puppies was the same way, gentle. Day one he knew the trail through the woods back to our house. Charlie is a beautiful Chocolate lab with the softest hair. I got him at 16 weeks. You have no idea how helpful that is. Of course you want a healthy dog. Took the shots like a champ. The Vet remarked how firm his joints were. Yes he lets you brush his teeth! He goes to the door when he has to go. Another reason I wanted a 16 week pup. Peanut butter to continue gentle licks on my fingers. He always gets small chicken or liver for COME. You should see him come. Is Charlie gentle because some hunting dogs have a gentle mouth or is he gentle because Mike treated him right? Oh do exactly as Mike says on the take home instructions, he knows his dogs! Highly recommend! We brought our pup home with all the documentation of his superior genetics. Mike also sends several handouts which help prepare you for puppy ownership and ensure a smooth transition for your pup to his new home! In addition to his exceptional breeding he is exceptionally well-trained. We opted for a stage 2 puppy and not only does he sit, lay down, stay, he has an incredibly calm demeanor and his additional exposure to other dogs was also incredible. He is so well-tempered and well-behaved due to his additional training. We are so happy and in love with our sweet boy! Brent Viditz-Ward We were looking for a chocolate lab puppy for a long time from a reputable breeder and our experience with Mike was wonderful. He took time to get to know us and make sure that the dog was going to a good home and is always available to answer questions, give advice, etc. I highly recommend Mike and his puppies! M Fowkes Mike is a fantastic breeder. We got an F1 puppy from Mike. She is a sweet beautiful girl. Before she was born Mike knew what the puppies would look like generally, and was really easy to communicate with. He is very responsive when I had a lot of questions. He is like that even now that my puppy is 4 months old…available to answer questions and be supportive. Josie Palma-Aurelio We stumbled on this website when we were looking for our next fur baby. All the reviews speak truthful about Mike. He calls us to check on Nala for updates and gives us pointers on how to take care of her. Nala is such a lovable puppy and we are so happy to have her. We highly recommend! Juan Tellez Mike was a great helping my family and puppy get adjusted to our home. You can tell Mike has a lot of dedication and love towards his dogs. Snoop has been a great addition to our family! We are first time pet owners and Mike handheld us through the entire adoption process. His reference material, responsiveness and his genuine care for the puppies has helped us navigate the critical period of 12 weeks smoothly. The puppy is super smart outwitted me in a game of hide n seek when he was 10 weeks old! He is a bundle of joy! We are first time pet owners and had a lot of questions! He is always enthusiastic in answering any questions we have and supporting us before and after getting the pup! He cares about his dogs and pups and it shows in the research he has done and the knowledge he has about them! He has a lot of information on his website about the breed, food, toys and snacks! He also gives a couple of handouts when we book a pup with him and some when we take them home! Those helped a lot in the preparation for our pup! When you take them home, he also gives you details about the breed, vaccination records, and DNA testing done for the litter! Our girl, Shuri, is very energetic and curious! She does really well when we train her and has already learnt so much! For anyone looking for a labradoodle, Mike is the best! Jocelyn I highly recommend Mike. We are first time dog owners and he made the process so easy for us. Our labradoodle has made an excellent addition to our family!

Lifespan Sociability If you get a Sheptese, get ready for the questions. People are going to ask you all the time, what is it? The parent breeds are similar in some personality aspects. They are both affectionate with their families. Remember that the Maltese was—and still is—a pampered pooch. He knows it, too. This pup has the sassiness and bravado of many toy breeds. Few realize that they are small dogs. The German Shepherd probably fuels this attitude. He is confident because he has the stuff to back up his aplomb. This pup has earned his stripes and then some! Every day will be a new adventure with this pooch. Selective breeding refined the German Shepherd to the stately dog we see today. The AKC appreciated the efforts and recognized him in .The first pup on the books was named Queen of Switzerland and worthy of the title. The German Shepherd took on the wrath after the world wars. It was also replaced at one time with Alstaian. The Maltese has retained his place with the rich and famous. While the Maltese got his start with Roman royalty, he has retained this status with his fans today. Many things go into the mix, including breed dominance, history, and size. That makes it hard to generalize about the Sheptese. The German Shepherd brings keen intelligence to the mix. He is easy to train and can learn a variety of tasks and commands. The Maltese is equally as smart. That means that you need to challenge your pet mentally. Are These Dogs Good for Families? He wants all the attention. Separation anxiety is a concern with the Sheptese. This pup is relatively friendly with strangers, but early socialization is imperative to seal the deal. It comes from his history as a herding dog. It also means trouble for your cat or other small animals. This pup is moderately tolerant of other canines. Many of the caveats depend on the dominant breed. If not, rely on the advice of your veterinarian for the particular care that your pet will need. The size of your pup is a vital consideration. Use those observations as your guide because foods for small and large breeds vary. If your pup is more like a Maltese, you must make sure he eats at every meal. Dogs of this size are more inclined toward drops in blood sugar levels. Begin with three or four meals a day for a puppy with two times for an adult. Walks and trips to the doggie park will seal the deal. This pup has a moderate tendency toward weight gain, so regular activity is imperative to keep him healthy. Think of your time together as opportunities to bond with your pet. He can also handle more challenging tasks, which is why he performs on the agility circuit in dog shows. The key to success is consistent training. Let your pet know what you want him to do. The Maltese is easy-peasy with his silky hair and regular combing to prevent mats. The Shepherd needs regular brushing to keep the hair in check. The key is to remain consistent. You teach your pup what he needs to do, and you make it easier for you. Handle his paws often to make trimming his nails easier. A post shared by Aaki aaki. Minor Conditions. While they may be larger than a Maltese, they rarely grow to be the size of a German Shepherd. Very likely, they will be around 10 to 18 inches tall and weigh between 20 and 25 pounds. Even when the GSD parent dons another color, its mutt is likely to inherit the same color and the same medium-to-long double coat. However, the German Shepherd coat it might inherit means a double coat that sheds year-round and blows off twice a year. This means having to brush at least once a week to control the shedding and then as frequently as once daily during the shedding seasons. As for the ears, maintenance will depend on which set the pup inherits. All dogs benefit from regular nail trimming, and the Maltese-German Shepherd mix is no different. It will also require frequent toothbrushing to ensure good oral health. Strength The strength of the German Shepherd — Maltese cross will mainly depend on its size. They may, however, still have considerable bite strength relative to the size of their muzzle. The build and size of the German Shepherd unsurprisingly make it a faster runner at approximately 30 miles per hour. Given the running speeds of its two parents, the Maltese — GSD mix is expected to run quite fast. Of course, its speed will be proportional to its size as longer legs mean larger strides. Nevertheless, you can expect these dogs to be quick on their feet, agile, and energetic. Exercise Requirement The Maltese — German Shepherd mix may be more laid back thanks to the lower energy levels it inherits from the Maltese parent. However, having a GSD parent means they are likely to still be quite energetic. They will thrive on physical exercise of at least 30 minutes per day in order to avoid the development of bad behaviors. The intelligence and work drive they are likely to inherit from the German Shepherd parent also means they will require plenty of mental stimulation. These may be in the form of puzzle toys , enrichment games, and training. They may also excel in canine sports, which would ensure both physical and mental wellbeing. It belongs to the highest tier of dog intelligence, which means it only takes up to 5 repetitions for them to learn a command. The Maltese, however, is not quite as trainable. These dogs belong to the fifth tier of dog intelligence and may need up to 80 repetitions to master a new command. Nevertheless, what it lacks in natural intelligence, it makes up for in its eagerness to please. With early exposure and socialization, these crosses can be well-behaved and delightful companions. They relate better with other dogs and are much more likely to relax and switch off at home. Compared to the Maltese, however, they have much more energy and a stronger drive to work. Although these dogs are highly adaptable, they will benefit from plenty of training and even a job to do at home. But no matter which parent it takes its personality from, the Maltese — German Shepherd mix is sure to be affectionate with family and playful yet gentle with young children. You can also expect them to be slightly wary of strangers because of their protective nature. Health Any Maltese GSD cross will require regular vet checkups from puppyhood because the difference in size between the two parents can lead to several complications. Conversely, its heart might be too small to support a larger body. Additionally, the genetic conditions of both parents will play a huge role in the health of their offspring. The GSD parent brings up concerns of hip and elbow dysplasia while the Maltese parent makes it more likely to suffer from patellar issues. But if both breeding stocks are screened and healthy, the resulting offspring are likely to be healthy as well. Lifespan Barring any complications from mismatched sizing, a Maltese — German Shepherd cross is generally expected to live between 10 and 12 years. To ensure longevity, take your pup to regular vet check-ups and feed them a high-quality diet throughout its life. Additionally, keep your dog from becoming overweight as this will lead not only to cardiovascular issues but will also cause unnecessary wear on their joints and give them a much harder time in their senior years. Nevertheless, it can participate in the AKC Canine Partners program, which accommodates the registration of mutts and allows them to participate in a number of club-hosted events. Among the events that the German Shepherd-Maltese cross is expected to excel in include Flyball and Rally. It would be difficult for you to find a German Shepherd — Maltese mix because responsible breeders would not produce them on purpose. The difference in size between the two breeds puts the resulting puppies at great risk. If the Maltese is the female that will carry the litter, its life will also be at risk because the puppies might be too large for its body to handle. Nevertheless, you may still encounter the occasional GSD-Maltese cross as a result of an accidental mating. When you do, it will surely be an interesting dog with plenty of unique characteristics. Even more so because of its incredibly unique appearance and combination of personality traits from the two parents. However, these dogs may need careful and regular vet examinations throughout their life since the difference in size between the two parents can bring life-threatening health conditions. It grows up to 10 inches for a male and 9 inches for a female. An adult Maltese regardless of gender can weight up to 4 pounds. A Maltese fall under the toy group classification. Its color is white, and it comes with a long coat. It requires regular grooming. The Maltese are one of the few dog breeds that need a regular bath. If you are looking for a cute family dog that your kids can play with, this sweet and affectionate breed is highly recommended. In his YouTube video , AnimalWised showed reasons why Maltese is one of the most loved family dogs in the world. Getting to Know Your German Shepherd Breed GSDs or German Shepherd dogs are known for many things according to AKC — loyalty to its owner, courage, ability to learn and understand commands, confidence, and willingness to save the ones they loved. It is not just a pet and a friend, it is also a guardian. An adult GSD can weigh up to 95 pounds. It grows up to 26 inches in height. It has the size of a Maltese and the physical looks of a German Shepherd. You can find a cute image of a Sheptese from Dog Breed Info. This is the only information available about a Sheptese online. It is probably because it is not easy to breed a small Maltese with a large German Shepherd. In a forum posted in Quora , members expressed fear from a possible Maltese German Shepherd mix. And if it worked and the female Maltese carries a large GSD pup, would she survive the birthing process? Perhaps these questions hindered most breeders of today from crossing these two breeds. A GSD has a lot of great characteristics that pet parents would love. When it comes to popular GSD mixed breeds, the following are the most popular ones. Mix them and you get the top two best guard dogs out there. These breeds are energetic, obedient, loyal, and brave. Collies and GSDs are known as herding dogs in the early s so you can expect this cross-breed to be very active especially outdoors. Despite being a large dog, your kids can safely play around Shollies especially those trained ones. This breed is often seen cuddled by Hollywood stars. Combine it with another breed and you can get an equally cute and cuddly pet baby. When it comes to popular Maltese mixed breeds, the following are the most popular ones. Maltese and Poodle Mix Maltipoo Charming, affectionate, and loving — this is how little Maltipoos are often described. Because of its poodle genes, it often comes in brown color and not white. The cute face is the same though and it remains to be a great family pet. Maltese and Shihtzu Malshi Do you want a furball that you can bring anywhere you go? The Malshi would be a great cross-breed to have. It is very small that you can even place it in your bag while doing your window shopping. An active dog, the Malshi is a good company even if you just want to binge-watch over the weekend. Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier Morkie Are you a fan of small and cute dogs? The Morkie is an example of a family dog that you can leave with your child with a peace of mind. This is a friendly, loving, and very active breed too. Final Thoughts on the Maltese German Shepherd Mix Finding information on the Maltese German Shepherd mix is challenging because very few breeders had probably tried it. According to Breeding Business , it is difficult and worrisome to breed dogs of different sizes. There are health concerns involved and increased risk. The strain on the smaller female can be stressful and can even lead to death. If you are into German Shepherds or Maltese, it is best to choose from their popular mixes as these are proven to be healthier and more reliable breeds.

Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Puppyhood The first growth phase — puppyhood — has six development stages. During each of these stages, a puppy learns a lot of things. Neonatal Stage This period lasts from birth to 13 days. The puppy needs a lot of nursing from its mom because it is rather helpless. Its ears and eyes are closed, so it does not have any senses. The little pups should completely rely on their mothers for nourishment and care. By 2 weeks, they double their birth weight. They start crawling, and then their eyes and ears begin to open. The first milk teeth appear. The puppy can even stand up, but too unstably and shakily. This makes it possible for little ones to hear, smell, and taste. They even try to walk. Their baby teeth continue growing. The period between weeks is also called a transitional one. At the end of the third week, the motor skills start developing fast. The puppy can already control its temperature and body, namely, bowel movements. It begins to interact with its littermates. Nevertheless, the pup is still largely dependent on its mother. Though, you can interact with it. At the end of this period, the little cub is ready to explore the world. Its baby teeth are almost complete, and it can stand up more stably. It starts barking and growling a bit. The puppy grows quickly now. It actively interacts with its littermates. The baby dog can walk, and its baby teeth are complete. You can also consider the German Shepherd behavior stages from now. Its mental development starts because it discovers the world actively with its senses. Its walking improves, and it can make attempts to run, so it can even sometimes get in trouble. The puppy can start eating dog food. That is why it is important to begin weaning. The little one can recognize and greet its littermates and people, get interested in new things, and continue to explore the world. However, at this age, the first fear period can be experienced. Read our detailed guide about 6 week old German Shepherd puppy. It is the best period for taking your pet home. This period can be psychologically traumatic, so be careful not to expose the pet to direct sunlight because it may be afraid of it for its entire life. All the fears need your special attention. You need to nurture, but not encourage them. Read our detailed guide about 2 month old German Shepherd puppy. So, your puppy is three months old now. It is playful and active. Its teeth are complete. It is weaned and eats dog food. The feeding recommendation here is the overall one and a half cups, three times a day. It is also time to get your pet vaccinated against distemper and parvovirus. At the end of the third month, your little GSD can simulate its behavior after other dogs and humans. Training can start. Read our detailed guide about 3 month old German Shepherd puppy. Your puppy already has all its baby teeth, and adult canines and incisors begin to push through. It can even try to bite or nip you. The puppy coat begins to disappear and gets ready for replacement by the adult double-layer coat. You can see a racing stripe on its spine where the adult hair will grow. The puppy displays quick growth at this time, and it becomes stronger to withstand the possible fierce competition with its siblings if it is still staying with its family. It needs a lot of biting and chewing now for the correct growth of its adult teeth. Your pet needs consistent socialization and potty training now. After three months old, you should think about such vaccination as DHPP — distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. The juvenile phase lasts from 3 to 6 months, and it can be divided into three stages by month. Continue socializing and start more substantial training. You can consult the German Shepherd weight chart here to see whether your pup develops properly. So, be attentive to the games you play with your pet. Some of them can be dangerous and traumatic because your puppy may not know how to manage its body during them. You can give it two cups of kibble totally three times per day because it needs a lot of nutrition to grow. DHPP and rabies vaccines are recommended at this age. Your little pup is ready to explore the world. However, as a true teenager, it can become more stubborn and try not to listen to your commands. It starts to understand dominance and tries to persuade you in its leadership. Read our detailed guide about 4 month old German Shepherd puppy. During this month, it can gain about 10 pounds 4. Its ears have stably perked up by this time. It looks more like an adult dog but, as a true teenager, it is very playful and is always ready to go around. The adult teeth continue to appear. Sexual maturity starts emerging. You should feed your pet around two cups three times per day. A lot of training is also needed. Read our detailed guide about 5 month old German Shepherd puppy. It needs a lot of training and positive reinforcement. Now, your pet is fully house-trained, and it needs a lot of new experiences. The sixth month is a transition period to the Adolescent Phase. The ears are completely upright. Males achieve sexual maturity, while female puppies can experience heat cycles. Hormones start working, and male puppies can start marking the territory and looking for females to mate. The adult coat grows longer and gets its normal double layers. Adult teething is about to finish, and all 42 teeth appear. You should feed your dog with the overall two or three cups two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 6 month old German Shepherd puppy. Adolescence Phase Months German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years 36 months old. Females become adults when they are 2 years 24 months old. However, these criteria differ for every puppy. That is why the adolescence phase lasts from the end of the 6th month to the end of the second year of age 24 months on average. By the end of this phase, the puppy reaches its full size though it will continue slightly growing. Your dog can display testing boundaries, so disobedience is widely encountered if the dog is not properly trained. German Shepherds do not look like puppies anymore. Within this period, some dogs can display their second fear period at approximately months old , though to avoid long-lasting psychological trauma, you should ignore the fears. Some dogs may occasionally forget their skills that they have already acquired, so you may need to repeat training again. Here, the reinforced training is useful because some puppies can become entirely rambunctious. Your pet will also need more socialization since it reaches its sexual maturity, and some of its reactions can be pretty unexpected. Its sexual maturity continues, which may cause some aggression because of increases and decreases in hormones. The puppy does not gain weight so fast. Teething is finished. The German Shepherd starts looking more similar to an adult dog, with its standing up ears and well-developed muscles. The food your dog needs involves two or three cups total, given two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 7 month old German Shepherd puppy. It displays a lot of aggression. It can bark or lunge at other animals, kids, and unfamiliar people. A lot of training and reinforcement is needed. You can teach the youngster new tricks to deal with their aggression. The dog has strong adult teeth, and its ears are well-formed and perky. The transition to adulthood continues. As for food, your dog needs two-three cups in total two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 8 month old German Shepherd puppy. It does not grow fast, gaining about a couple of pounds per month. The dog needs two-three cups of food two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 9 month old German Shepherd puppy. They are very active and need a lot of attention and training. Sometimes, they can be really goofy or clumsy because they are still learning and do not know how to behave in many events. Your pup is very smart and clever but tends to display a lot of aggression if not supported and reinforced properly. The dogs should eat two-three cups in total per day. Read our detailed guide about 10 month old German Shepherd pupp y. It starts to challenge you as an owner and likes to demonstrate its leadership. You should teach it to be responsible and obey your commands. A lot of training and reinforcement is crucial. Still, give it two or three cups in total per day. It becomes a bit destructive, but be sure not to get angry or upset with it. It needs your patience and positive attitude. Such vaccines as DHPP and rabies are recommended at this age. It should also transit to adult food. Give it three or three and a half cups total twice a day. Read our detailed guide about 1 year old German Shepherd puppy. Years 1. This time is considered a transition period. The dog may have problems with fears and memory breakdowns. It may even forget how to do familiar things and should be trained again. However, its attention span is longer at this age, so it can have a more thorough obedience training. The dog should eat three or three and a half cups two times a day. Year 2 months — The Second Transition Phase This is one more transition period known as young adulthood. Your dog still displays some aggression. That is why they continue to need reinforcement, training, and socialization. It has already gained its athletic frame and strong muscle, and only several pounds are lacking for reaching its adult weight. In fact, you get a German Shepherd full-grown pet now. The DHPP vaccination is recommended at this age. Continue to feed your dog with three to three and a half cups in total twice per day. It has become a loyal and protective family pet or an obedient and enduring working dog. The young adulthood stage lasts from the second to the third year after the puppy was born. Its size is typical now for an adult dog. However, it may continue to grow slightly, but the changes are not noticeable at all. At this phase, you can also notice that your pet becomes more and more active. It needs a lot of exercise and training. A lot of physical activity is essential for the dog to stay in high spirits. The period between the second and third years of life is also called the adult growth stage. This is the time when your friend gets its excellent breed characteristics. It loves attention very much and continues to learn new things eagerly. The dog enjoys training sessions and strives for new experiences. It becomes calmer and more confident. Its hyperactivity slightly decreases. It displays a lot of self-control and discipline. Continue feeding your dog with three to three and a half cups twice per day. It will be its constant adult diet. Vaccination against rabies is recommended and required by authorities at this age. Seniority Phase This is the last phase of German Shepherd development. It may seem wonderful, but your dog can continue to slightly grow. The phase is divided into two periods — early senior years old and late senior years old. Unfortunately, you need to focus on its health rather than on training. Such health issues as hip dysplasia, joint pain, and decreased stamina can appear at this age. You need to have consultations with your vet more often. During this period, your dog does not change its weight and height considerably. Though, you can observe slight changes in weight. On average, these dogs live years. You need to attend to their health and comfort. The dog may remain energetic and playful, but it slightly slows down. It wants to rest more and gets much calmer. The animal may suffer from some pains, so it may need pain relievers for spine and joint problems and arthritis. It may also need nutritional supplements and changes to its diet. Special senior and sensitive stomach food may become the best choice. Avoid jumping and hard playing. Continuous veterinary monitoring is needed if some symptoms are worsening. The accepted proportion that is considered ideal is .The weight is usually not taken into consideration. If your pet does not correspond to this proportion, there may be a health issue you do not know about yet. That is why you need to monitor the parameters carefully. To be sure that everything is OK, multiply the length of your dog by 0. You will get the perfect height. However, there can be some divergences. If they are minor, you have nothing to worry about. The German Shepherd is rather thin, or even skinny. This results in bad proportions. The ideal weight of your German Shepherd is lbs kg for males and lbs kg for females. You can get either a heavy or obese dog, and it can be a result of overfeeding or certain health issues. How to Check the Weight of Your German Shepherd The simplest method to see whether your dog is underweight is to check whether the ribs are visible on the sides. If you can see that the shape of your dog reminds you of a barrel on the ribs, it means that it is overweight. If you cannot feel the ribs, but there is too much skin on the sides, your dog is overweight. However, if you feel the ribs and only a thin layer of skin, it is underweight. It does not matter whether your dog is underweight or overweight. In any case, it can cause health problems if you do not repair the situation. The best way to succeed is to make changes to the diet. If your German Shepherd is underweight, you should enrich the content of its food. However, do not make it eat if the dog does not want to. That can lead to more severe problems. Make a slow transition to food with higher fat content. Or you may even give your dog puppy food because it is rich in nutrients. If your pet is obviously overweight, the best thing is to cut off the food. However, you also need to do it step by step so that the dog finally can eat just half of the amount you have recently fed it. The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder and an average weight of pounds kg. Nevertheless, some German Shepherds can grow bigger and even reach pounds kg. You need to be sure about its proportions though to understand if your pet meets the standards. If you see some deficiencies, meet your vet for a more thorough evaluation. When does a German Shepherd stop growing? German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years old. Females become adults when they are 2 years old. How tall is a German Shepherd? The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder. An average male reaches inches cm in height, while an average female should be inches cm tall. The body of both males and females should be longer than their height. How big do German Shepherds get? How much does a German Shepherd weight? In general, an average male reaches pounds kg in weight, while an average female should be pounds kg heavy. This is a very strong and brave dog that can become a perfect guardian and protector. If you decide to take a GS puppy, you need to follow its growth stages accurately to be sure that it develops properly. You should follow a high-quality diet, provide your dog with a lot of exercise, and ensure its proper training and socialization. Your German Shepherd cannot stay healthy and active if it gets some health problems related to its weight or height. Sometimes, these issues are not obvious and understandable to the owner. That is why it is important to know the main development parameters of your German Shepherd growth stages to cope with possible challenges. We hope that this article, together with the weight and height chart, will become your effective and helpful guide. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. As the German Shepherd growth chart suggests, a German Shepherd dog reaches full size and adult weight after one year. A growth spurt can occur between 1. The result of this late growth is an up to 10 percent increase in height and weight. Although you can consider a German Shepherd fully grown by one year, there may be additional factors that influence the growth of German Shepherd dogs. Is Your German Shepherd Healthy? Improper development can occur for many reasons. It could be as simple as your dog responding poorly to their dog food. Your feeding schedule and portions might not be sufficient. Your dog could also have a basic nutritional deficiency that you need to correct. Yet, being underweight or overweight can signify serious health problems. Weight loss can occur when the syndrome develops. Dogs typically show signs of EPI at between six months and six years of age. Parasites Dogs are highly susceptible to parasites. Deworming medication helps to reduce the risk. Yet, almost all puppies experience a parasitic infection at least once. Upon infection, your dog is at risk of serious weight loss and other troubling symptoms. Diabetes Mellitus Diabetes mellitus can affect any breed but has an above-average occurrence in German Shepherds. These dogs need insulin daily to accommodate for the inability to metabolize sugars. If your German has diabetes, severe weight loss can occur in a short period. Diabetes typically affects canines that are four years or older. It is the most common cancer in German Shepherds. Up to three percent will develop HSA. In most cases, this condition sets in at around nine to 12 years. Dietary Deficiency Do you have your German Shepherd on a raw food diet? Puppies often run underweight when receiving their nutritional requirements through raw meat. This diet is healthy and effective but needs monitoring, as not all dogs respond the same. Review the diet plan with a veterinarian and confirm there are no digestive or metabolic issues. Also, do not forget the importance of exercise! Clear Your Concerns with Coverage You put your heart into loving your dog like a child, but some things are out of your control. Health struggles can affect canines as much as humans. Even purebreds from AKC-certified breeders are not safe from serious health struggles both early and late in life. All you can do is prepare yourself to overcome complications. What if cancer happens? What else could happen? Peace of mind is great as a dog owner. Is coverage the answer? Get pet insurance quotes and see for yourself. Get Quotes for Your Cat Charitable Giving With every pet insurance policy we generate, we do our bit to help less fortunate animals across Canada and the U. Popular Articles. How about some details regarding their feeding habits, behavior, medical needs, grooming regimen, and exercise requirements? In this section, you will find everything you need to know to keep them healthy and assist with things such as toilet training and teething. She will discipline them and make sure they learn to be independent. They then begin to go to the toilet independently and venture away from mom. At week 8, they play, can be housebroken, and bark when startled. The famous GSD ears will start to stand up, and you can begin leash and crate training. They must be handled and groomed and realize that human commands and dominance are the norm. During this time, the mother will nurse the pups until they are old enough to begin eating puppy mush , which is softened kibble. Allow puppies to eat as much as they like at each meal. At 6—8 weeks, their first shot from the vet is due. Smith, Shutterstock 12 weeks is a turning point for your pup. Their coordination will come on in bounds, as will their learning and social skills. They will be eager to learn but easily distracted, so have plenty of patience. If you become angry, it will stunt development if they become fearful of you. Your pup is officially into the juvenile period now. All of his puppy teeth should be developed by now and are normally very sharp. So, beware of your fingers when playing. At 12 weeks of age, puppies can start to eat three to four set meals a day with measured amounts. Purpose-made dog-approved chew toys are best, not teddy bears or old shoes. As they grow through this period between three and six months, GSD puppies are more juvenile than babies. They will be more boisterous and energetic. But on the plus side will feed easily, be more friendly with animals and people alike, and more than likely be housetrained if you have managed them correctly. They will be stubborn at this age when training and could ignore you, or not come when called. The best approach is to ignore any sassy attitude and only praise and fuss when back to being obedient. His internal organs and systems are fully developed and functioning as they should, while the skeleton is still growing. His full set of adult teeth should be present and correct. Your GSD is now becoming independent and will want to roam different areas and interact with their world on many more levels. Be aware that they could weigh 50 lbs at 6 months, so caution is needed with control and safety as they explore. He may also seemingly forget commands that he has been taught. It is best to ignore, not mollycoddle, any fearful reactions to new things to not reinforce the negative behaviors. By 6 months of age, you can reduce the feedings to three per day, now paying attention to the total calories consumed. Between the ages of 4—6 months, he will shed his puppy coat too. He might still be a bit goofy, gangly, and stubborn when it comes to training. German Shepherd females are reaching sexual maturity at this age. They may have their first estrus heat period. So, be mindful of letting them off the lead during this time if other dogs are around. At 9 months, your GSD can be tested for heartworm and treated if needs be. Speak with your vet about this for more detail. You can add small amounts of solid adult formula into the puppy food to get him used to the texture. Making it the optimal time to stimulate them as much as you can with obedience training and work activities. Your GSD should be comfortable in all situations, and with all types of company as their bond with humans should be well established. Their unique personality and quirks should be apparent and set them apart as your dog. They will have developed vocal and body language traits that you recognize and use for their needs. If male, he will be reaching sexual maturity and cocking his leg when urinating. He might also be looking to challenge dogs and humans for the title of pack leader. The key to cementing all your hard work so far is to be consistently firm with any boundaries he tries to push. By 12 months, they should be on adult formula only. German Shepherds stop growing between 2 and 3 years. This is when they fill out too. It starts to slow at around the age of 1, but he will continue to grow until he reaches maturity. During this time, they are considered to be adolescents. This is the same for their mental maturity too. This is the same for all German Shepherd types. Females tend to mature faster, both physically and mentally, than male German Shepherds. There are different stages within this time frame before maturity. And these are the neonatal stage 1—2 weeks , the transitional stage 2—4 weeks , the socialization stage 4 weeks to 3 months , the juvenile stage 3—6 months , and the adolescent stage 6 months to 2 years. Research has shown that neutering dogs can affect their growth. But how exactly? But early indications show that early neutering can increase the length of time that the bone grows. Meaning potentially taller dogs. But this also poses questions about whether this affects the joint alignment and whether it can cause any problems. And for the German Shepherd breed and his heightened propensity for hip dysplasia, this is a concern to be aware of. But waiting for full skeletal maturity also poses risks. Because neutering for females can reduce mammary cancer. If spayed before her first heat, it can eliminate the chances of this type of cancer altogether. As they will be able to offer you tailored advice for your German Shepherd. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth The dangers of growing too fast can affect their skeletal development. Conditions caused by growing too quickly are joint dysplasia and osteochondrosis. By feeding him a kibble that is designed for large-breed puppies will help control the rate at which his bones grow. This is because they have the optimum ratio of calcium and phosphorus levels in the food. So, always feed him large-breed puppy food during his developmental stage. This is most common in German Shepherds, but also in some Labrador Retrievers. It is an inherited disorder of growth hormone deficiency, and it will make the affected pooch always appear puppy-like. Growth Distinctions of Different German Shepherds. Let us estimate how large your German Shepherd will be as an adult by inputting their age and weight into the calculator below. German Shepherds are considered a medium-to-large-sized breed. This means they often fall around the line that separates medium-sized dogs from large-sized dogs. The AKC wants males stand at inches and weigh pounds, making them considerably larger than females in some cases. Females stand at inches and weigh around pounds. As you can see, this is a huge range. There is a significant difference between a pound dog and an pound dog. Therefore, how big your particular dog might get depends largely on their genetics. You can often get somewhat of an idea by looking at both of their parents. Typically, if the parents are smaller, their puppies will be as well and visa versa. What does a 4-month German Shepherd weigh? Usually, 4-month-old German Shepherds weigh about pounds if they are males and pounds if they are females. Once they are born, genetics tend to take over. At 4-months-old, the puppies have been growing according to genetics for long enough for you to guess what their adult size might be. A dog that is small at this age is likely to remain small. They are simply focusing on growing larger at this point. They should have all their puppy teeth and decent motor skills. How big is a 6-month-old German Shepherd? Puppies undergo massive growth spurts before five months. By the time they reach six months, their growth has slowed down considerably. The average male will weigh about 53 pounds, while females weigh 46 pounds. They have not reached their full adult weight yet, but they are very close. Because their growth has slowed down so much, though, they will continue to grow for a long time to come. This is normal. It is also normal if your dog retains their somewhat skinny appearance for a few more months to come. When is a German Shepherd fully grown? Female German Shepherds often stop growing at around two years. Males may continue to grow for another six months or so. The exact time that each dog stops growing depends on genetics and their diet. This can make them grow too fast, which can mess up their joints and cause other health problems. In fact, hip dysplasia is much more likely in dogs that were improperly fed as puppies. Instead, we recommend patience. Dogs may not grow evenly. Many may reach their full height before gaining much of their muscle mass and fat. Dogs are a lot like children in this way. They grow at their own pace. While these dogs reach sexual maturity before they are fully grown, it is generally not recommended to breed them until they have reached their full size. Otherwise, it can stunt their growth and potentially cause health problems for the mother and the puppies. Do German Shepherds Grow Fast? Generally, German Shepherds grow rather fast in their first six months of life. They will double their weight many times in this period and undergo many growth spurts. However, after five to six months, it will begin to slow down substantially. While they will almost reach their full size at about six months, it will take them until they are about two to finally gain those last few dozen pounds. Why is my German Shepherd so small? German Shepherds all grow in a unique fashion, similarly to people. For this reason, a German Shepherd may not seem to be growing much at all, only to hit a growth spurt. Your dog may seem small compared to other German Shepherds while still being in the normal range. This increases their risk for many health problems, including hip dysplasia. The dog needs to grow at their natural rate. A dog can simply be smaller than normal but completely healthy. Some German Shepherds have been crossed with other kinds of shepherd — these dogs are likely to not grow at the same rate as their pure-bred peers, too. Do not make the mistake and keep your German Shepherd outside most of the time. These dogs get highly attached to their humans and want to spend time with them! If your dog lives outside and is experiencing stunted growth, he may be refusing food due to loneliness. Make sure to take him to a vet — and in addition, let him spend time inside with you! Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day. However, there are certain breeds that are easier to train than others. Thankfully, German Shepherds fit into that category because they are very intelligent and quick learners. This includes house training , crate training , basic obedience commands as well as learning tricks. We recommend attending a puppy kindergarten class as part of your German Shepherd puppy socialization strategy. Once your pup knows their basic obedience commands, you can enroll them in Schutzhund training aka IPO. Partnership and teamwork between yourself and your dog are the basis for this type of training. Note that the Schutzhund environment is not a place for dogs with aggression issues, neither towards other dogs nor people! If they pass that initial level which includes a temperament test, they can move on to IPO 2 minimum age 19 months and IPO 3 minimum age 20 months. That said, protection dog trainers recommend starting training classes that include bitework and high jumps once your German Shepherd puppy is 12 months old. Dutch and Czech are two other languages that commands are frequently taught in. Stanley, my former long-haired GSD dog walking client, started going to Schutzhund training when he was a little over 12 months old. His owners practiced commands in German with him on a daily basis, and I remember getting a print out of his German commands as they asked me to use them on our walks as well. Lots, ha! German Shepherds need a minimum of 2 hours of physical exercise per day, but generally speaking, the more exercise you can provide your GSD with, the more they will thrive. Remember, German Shepherds are high-energy, athletic dogs bred to be active all day long, especially if they come from a working line! Physical Exercise Ideas for German Shepherds As far as physical exercise, this can be a mix of walks, runs, bike rides, fetch and playtime. This is Nala, one of my former pet sitting clients. She was crazy about frisbees and balls. One of my favorite ways of increasing the energy and calories a dog burns on a regular walk or hike is by using a doggie backpack. Mental Stimulation for German Shepherds Besides providing a good physical workout, dog backpacks also burn mental energy. As you probably know, bored dogs can quickly become destructive as they figure out ways of entertaining themselves. For example, chewing up your furniture and shoes, scratching doors, raiding your kitchen trash can or digging up your flower beds. So do yourself a favor and make sure your GSD gets plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Remember, a tired dog is a good dog, and that applies to German Shepherds as much as it does to any other dog breed! Former GSD client Remi pooped after a long walk. Bottom Line So, how big does a German Shepherd get? Well, German Shepherds are medium to large size dogs, so they can weigh anywhere between lbs. That said, the average expected weight for a male GSD is between lbs, and the average expected weight for a female GSD is between lbs. Both reach sexual maturity somewhere between months and are considered fully grown at about the 2 year mark. Keeping that in mind, your GSD breeder should be able to give you a good general idea of how big your German Shepherd puppy will grow to be! Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Barbara is a trilingual, something dog lover, e-book author, founder, copywriter, dog nutrition blogger and editor at K9sOverCoffee. Post navigation.

All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Puppies are so cute! Just the thought of a little pup romping around the room and playing with his many toys makes people smile. And puppy kisses are the best! But it takes a lot of planning and work to have a successful relationship with the new addition. Remaining with them until then helps him learn how to appropriately play and interact with others. It also teaches him bite inhibition, so that he learns not to bite down too hard on our skin. So what exactly should we expect from our 8 week old puppy? Puppy Proof Your House Puppies are curious about everything. Choose the room your puppy will be in the most and make sure that electrical cords, hazardous chemicals, medications, and small items that can be ingested are out of his reach. When you get him, try to obtain a blanket or toy with the scent of his mother and littermates if possible. That will help him feel more at ease in a new environment. The breeder of my Lhasa apso Ralphie gave us a toy with those scents to help him make the transition, as he had a familiar scent with him which I placed in his pen at home. She was born in rescue but was the last of a litter of nine to be adopted when I saw her. But she made the transition fine. These include the following: Crates and exercise pens. But make sure you buy one with a divider included so that you can adjust the size of the crate as he grows. Collar and leash. Some breeders and rescues provide these. You may also want a harness to walk him. Clean-up tools. Chew deterrent. They make chew deterrents for various surfaces, such as for cloth or for wood such as furniture or baseboards. Toys and chew items. There are so many toys on the market today. Purchase a variety of safe types—some squeak, others rattle. And safe chews like Kong toys and Nylabones are important, because the puppy will explore the world with his mouth. Food and treats. You may want to change the puppy to a food you prefer. Many breeders and rescues will provide you with starter food. Then, if you change it, do so over at least a week or two. Other Preparations In addition to puppy-proofing your home and getting the above-listed items, there are other appointments you should have lined up prior to getting your pup, if possible. Have a veterinarian appointment set for your new puppy to be checked within the first few days after you get him. So, if you can, book the appointment in advance. When you meet with the vet, ask about what vaccinations your puppy will need. Puppies who are eight-weeks old generally have already had their distemper, adenovirus II, parvovirus, and parainfluenza vaccines. Discuss with your vet the appropriate heartworm preventative and flea and tick products for your puppy. Also ask about your puppy being microchipped. A microchip is really important should your puppy get lost. If you have the time, also look into puppy kindergarten and socialization classes. Make sure that the trainer is a positive reinforcement trainer who has experience in training puppies. And the facility should be clean and well-run. All puppies admitted to any classes should also be required to have age-appropriate vaccinations. Post Arrival After your new furry bundle of joy has arrived, the fun starts! And play with him and train him. Some breeders and rescues may have already started to house train him. Scheduling Puppies need consistency. So have a schedule for his feeding, pottying, training, exercise, and socialization. At eight weeks old, he may be getting three to four feedings per day. So feed him each meal at the same time each day. And have a basic schedule for his other needs. You may need other people to help out with some of his needs, such as house training. Socialization Socialization means exposing your new puppy, in a positive manner, to all the things that he will have to face in the real world. So he should be trained to walk over various surfaces, hear everyday noises, and meet friendly people and pets. But you can still have friends and family members over to meet him. And give them tidbits of treats to give the puppy to make any encounter such as petting a positive one. Of course, first give your new puppy a few days to settle in at your home before you expose him to even more new experiences. At home, too, get him used to the sounds of water running, the dishwasher and other appliances running, and the vacuum. You get the idea. Make each a positive experience, giving him a piece of kibble or a small treat. And do this slowly not to overwhelm him. And get him used to car rides. A very young puppy will have to go to the bathroom after he eats, sleeps, and has any excitement including play. He has very little bladder control at eight weeks old. A young puppy can hold his urine about one hour more than his age. So he can hold it about three hours at two months old. You may want to have an exercise pen set up as a safe area. You can place a potty pad at one end and a bed or towel as his bed at the other end. And place a few safe toys, including a puppy Kong. I just make sure to take the puppy out at the right times. Handling Your puppy has to get used to handling and grooming. You can have him chew a safe chew or lick moist food or Kong stuffing out of a Kong to occupy his mouth and make the training exercise positive. Get him used to gently massaging his whole body, including feet and touching his nails. Get him used to gently opening his mouth. Calmly praise any calm behavior. Keep the sessions very short—a few minutes at most. You should do only a part of his body during each session or it will probably be too much for him. If he struggles, calmly wait until he settles before releasing him. Obedience Training Your new puppy is basically a blank slate. He has to learn all the commands to live with us successfully. Training also helps the puppy bond with you. Of course, give him a day or two to settle in for most commands. But you can still help him learn his identity. So, first, teach him his name. You can show him a piece of his kibble or a tiny treat and hold it near your face when you say his name. Do this a few times. Then try to just say his name, not holding the food near your face. When he looks at you, again praise and reward. Remember to never use his name in a negative manner, such as for a correction. Always start any training session without any distractions. Your puppy has to be able to focus on you to learn. One of the first commands we teach our puppies is to sit. You can hold a treat just above his nose and slowly move it back towards his forehead. Calmly praise and reward when he sits. Another command I teach puppies in the first week is to come to me. I make it a lot of fun. Some puppies adapt easily, whereas others buck against the leash. Other Normal Puppy Behaviors Puppies explore the world with their mouths. So the little land sharks will try to chew on you and whatever they can reach. This is where your safe toys and chews come in. Always redirect him to the safe items and praise when he chews them. Puppy zoomies are normal. All of a sudden, your puppy may run around the room bouncing off the furniture. This is normal. Final Thoughts New puppies are so much fun! Do you have a puppy or have you had one? Please tell us about it in the comment section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Between 8 weeks and 10 months, your puppy has a ton of growing to do, and they change drastically from month to month. Each stage of growth requires specific attention, exercise, and diet, so there is much to learn and pay attention to these different growth stages. There may be behavioral challenges while your pup adjusts to their new life without their mother and siblings. This period of adjustment can sometimes lead to fearful and timid behavior, and your puppy will need as much attention and affection as possible. They should be eating 3—4 small meals a day at this stage. You can begin basic command, leash, and potty training at this point too. Although the schedule is not complete this is a critical period to begin socialization and making sure they are calm and friendly with other dogs, just make sure they are also vaccinated. We highly recommend making training a part of their daily activities at this age. Biting can be an issue at this stage too, as they will begin teething, and they will start exploring and chewing whatever they can find. Chew toys and consistent command reinforcement are both vital for avoiding this behavior. The good news is that your puppy will grow out of this habit at around 6 months old. Your lab should also be house-trained by this point, but there may still be the occasional accident. Remember to be gentle but firm when this happens, and your pooch will likely move through it swiftly. They will begin losing their baby teeth at this point, and biting and chewing may reach its peak. Firm but gentle commands, chew toys, and loads of patience are essential at this stage. Your puppy will be testing the limits and may start showing dominance, ignoring known commands, and asserting more independence. You can now drop their meals down to two meals per day, but be sure that they are not eating too quickly. Your puppy will start to closely resemble an adult at 6 months, but remember that mentally, they are still puppies and will need loads of direction and training. Females may enter their first heat at 6—7 months, so keep a careful watch for stray males. They will still display puppy tendencies and traits and have a ton of excitable energy, but they should be fairly obedient and well-trained by this stage. Be sure to give your Labrador plenty of exercise at this stage to help keep them from misbehavior. They will have reached their full height by now but may still gain weight and muscle mass in the coming months. Unless you intend on breeding, you should consider neutering and spaying your puppy to avoid wandering and unwanted pregnancies. While some breeders recommend that you wait until a year old, this is a perfectly suitable time to perform the procedure. They may still gain weight and muscle mass but much slower than during the past few months. They will still display puppy characteristics and even test boundaries, but all in all, they should be obedient and well-trained by now. They will have a ton of energy and still enjoy playtimes and loads of exercise. While they are at their full height at this age, some Labs may appear lanky and still have weight to fill out in the coming months. When Do Labradors Stop Growing? All dogs are unique, and the question of when they stop growing is largely dependent on the individual. Anecdotally, your Lab should have reached their full weight by 18 months and full height by 9—12 months. Most breeders agree that your Lab will stop growing at some point during their second year. Even so, any weight gain during their second year will be minimal, and they will have done the majority of their growth by their first birthday. Mentally, they are out of the puppyhood phase of testing boundaries and disobedience by their first year— if correctly trained. If you have been consistent in training thus far, your Lab should be friendly, obedient, and well-behaved from their first birthday and into adulthood. In males, neutering can sometimes result in a calmer, more relaxed dog, and this, in turn, will slow down his need for exercise and may result in weight gain. A study in showed that dogs neutered before 37 weeks may gain more weight, while dogs that had the procedure after 37 weeks had a slower growth trajectory. The difference was minimal, though, and there is no reason to assume that these procedures have much of an effect on growth rates in dogs. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth While some puppies may grow quicker or slower than the agreed-upon average, this is usually nothing to be concerned about due to the individual and unique nature of dogs. However, if your pooch is gaining weight rapidly or not gaining enough, there may be deeper issues to look into. If your dog is from working or hunting stock, they may be smaller than average Labs and are usually lighter for work in the field. Size may also be genetic, and if your Lab comes from small parents, they will be smaller than average. The same may be true of heavier-than-average Labs—if their parents are large, they will likely be similar in size. However, larger-than-average weights may also be due to overfeeding or a lack of exercise , or a combination of both, so be sure to keep their exercise and feeding habits consistent. Image Credit: rebeccaashworth, Shutterstock Growth Distinctions of Different Labradors Although they are designated under the same breed, there are two different types of common Labradors: English and American. English Labradors tend to be stockier and more muscular than their American counterparts and have a thick, waterproof coat , while American Labs have a slender build with a slightly finer coat. English Labs are slightly shorter, topping out at around 22 inches, but their stocky and muscular build often makes them heavier than American Labs. In fact, English Labs have been known to weigh up to 20 pounds more than American Labs without being considered overweight. American Labs are known to be slightly more active and energetic than English Labs, while English Labs tend to be less excitable and more laid back. English Labs are by no means lazy, though, and they still have plenty of energy and stamina to go around. Conclusion: Monthly Labrador Growth Pictures Hopefully, this guide has helped you understand the growth rate of your Labrador puppy and given you a better idea of what to expect during the different stages. See also:. As far as their height is concerned, most labs will reach their adult height of 22 to 25 inches 56 to .They will also reach their optimal weight of 64 to 80 pounds 29 to 36 kg by their 15th month. Labrador Retrievers are very food motivated, more so than quite a few other pups. Keeping your pup properly nourished is vital but letting your dog get fluffy is obviously ill-advised. With lots of myths and misconceptions flying around the place, many people believe that neutering or spaying your lab puppy too early will slow down its growth. There are some minor changes here and there, depending on the study, but nothing too significant. How big is the pup compared to the rest of its litter? The average time it takes for a Labrador Retriever to reach its maximum height is about 11 months or less than a year. Some puppies take a bit longer and others do it even sooner. A few weeks of variation are to be expected as long as your vet is certain your pup is healthy. As for the weight, this reaches its potential a bit later — around the 15th month. How can you tell how big a Lab puppy will get? It will also likely have a pretty dominant personality and require an experienced owner. How much do Lab puppies grow each week? In terms of weight, a 3 pound 1. From there, the growth will gradually slow down until the puppy reaches its maximum height around the month mark and its optimal weight around the 15th month. How big is an 8 week old Labrador? How big exactly is such a pup, however? The average 8 week old Labrador should be somewhere between 8 and 12 inches tall at the shoulder 20 to 30 cm with females being an inch or so shorter. As for their weight, that can vary between 10 to 14 pounds 4. Can you tell how big a puppy will get? Your puppy will be growing very fast when you first bring them home. But that growth rate slows down quite quickly. So when do dogs stop growing for good? And how will you know when your puppy has reached their adult size? Labrador Puppy Growth Chart We have a fascinating and long running thread on our forum, where members enter the weights of their puppies at different ages. The Labrador growth chart below shows the data we have collected, in a Labrador weight chart by age. Labrador dog weight chart by age and breed Each dot represents a snapshot in time of an individual puppy. You can find his or her age in weeks along the bottom of the chart and his weight in pounds up the left hand side. You can see how all the dots taken together follow a pattern, but there is still a considerable range of puppy weights at each age. When Do Dogs Stop Growing? But what about a two year old Lab, or a one year old? Well, in broad terms, dogs stop growing sometime between one and two years old. But it varies between breeds. Most dogs are fully grown by their first birthday. In general small breeds reach their adult height several months before large breeds do. Yet dog size varies greatly among individuals, even within the same breed. Larger dogs are often slower to mature than little dogs, and carry on growing for longer. Small dogs are sometimes fully grown by the time they are 9 months old. Whereas giant breeds can take up to three years to reach full size. Adult size, temperament, and coat type are all likely to affect energy requirements, and affect the rate a puppy grows. In fact even breeds which end up similar in size can grow at very different rates. There is very little scientific research — but a lot of anecdotal evidence — about when Lab puppies stop growing. In , a UK study following 37 Lab puppies through to adulthood revealed that all of them had reached their adult weight by their first birthday. But more recently, a much larger lifestyle study of over 4, UK Labradors found that their weight continued to increase between one and four years old. When Do Labs Stop Growing? The Labrador puppy growth chart finishes when the dog reaches adulthood. General wisdom from breeders, vets, and experiences Labrador owners is that Labs stop growing during their second year. In fact, he will be quite close to his final adult Labrador height at around nine months of age. Does color change the Labrador puppy growth chart? When is a chocolate Lab full grown? Is it the same time that a full grown black Labrador or yellow Lab? So your average chocolate Lab will be adult sizes at the same time as the average yellow or black Lab. How Quickly Do Labradors Grow? Our Labrador puppy growth chart shows that all Labrador puppies follow the same breed specific pattern of growth spurts and slower growth, even though the actual numbers on the scale will vary from individual to individual. The most rapid period of growth will take place in the first month or so after you bring him home. In , a study of Labrador puppies in Norway found that Labrador weight gain is most rapid at 89 days old in females, and 95 days old in males. So around the week mark. And Labradors usually reach half of their adult weight by the time they are 18 or 19 weeks old. How much do Labs grow after 6 months? Another trend you can see in our Labrador puppy growth chart is that Lab puppies gain weight much less rapidly after their 6 month birthday. Once your Lab has hit this milestone you can expect them to gain a little height, and probably continue to fill out for up to a year or so. In other words, the point when you Lab stops getting any taller. It is estimated that in the UK the average height at the shoulders of a male Lab is cm taller than the breed standard. Will my dog still grow after being neutered? Whether or not dogs should be routinely spayed or neutered is a subject which divides opinion. Labrador owners deciding whether and when to neuter usually end up with a lot of questions, few of which have straightforward answers. Many veterinary care providers and shelters advocate neutering at a young age, or even make it a requirement of the adoption contract. A study found that neutering before 37 weeks old is linked to very slightly more rapid growth, and neutering after 37 weeks leads to very slightly slower growth. How big do Labrador Retrievers get? As we all know, very few dogs fit the mathematical average — they are much more likely to occupy a range of normal sizes. But most of us like a more precise answer than that before we commit to sharing our home with a puppy. So, how big do Labs get? Labradors are remarkably variable in height and weight. The biggest male Labs can be almost twice the size of the smallest female ones. But you want me to give you some numbers, so here are some averages. Many adult female Labradors reach a weight of lbs and stand inches high at the shoulder. This will be the same whether they are a female chocolate Lab or a female black Labrador. Many adult male Labradors reach a weight of lbs and stand inches at the shoulder. But remember, your dog is probably not an average dog! Can you always predict size with a Labrador puppy growth chart? These Labrador height and weight numbers are very broad guidelines, and they may give you a rough idea of how big a pup will grow. How big your Labrador will get depends partly on his parents. Assuming that your puppy had healthy not overweight parents, their own weights will give you an idea of how big your Lab is likely to grow. But there are always surprises in any group or family of dogs! Has your puppy stalled on the Labrador puppy growth chart? It is possible that your puppy will weigh less than the average examples. Labrador puppy weight and size can vary widely depending on a number of different factors, many of which are normal and harmless. American Labrador puppy growth Labrador puppies from working stock are often less heavy than those bred for the show ring or pet homes. Dogs bred for hunting and field trials tend to be faster and lighter in build because they are expected to be agile and quick when working in the field. Small parents Size is also partly genetic. In other words, if your puppy had small parents he might well be on the small size for his age, throughout his life. Again, this is only a general guide. Even puppies from the same litter can vary quite considerably in size when plotted on a Labrador puppy growth chart. How much should my Labrador puppy weigh? But this kind of rule of thumb is of limited use, and there are problems with judging whether or not a puppy is thriving by his weight alone. Because it is so difficult to know exactly what size your puppy will be as an adult, no-one can really say what he should weigh today, or any other day. It may however give you an indication if your puppy is seriously under or overweight. It is rare for puppies to have any kind of growth disorder. Or for their families to starve them by mistake! But it is also normal to worry a little if your puppy seems on the small side. Is my puppy is too fat or too thin? The very best guide to whether a puppy is the right weight for him, is how he looks and feels. Not where he falls on an average Labrador puppy growth chart. Physically examining and observing your puppy will help you decide if they are doing ok in this respect. Just like older Labradors, puppies should not be too heavy. Most experts nowadays like to see a waist on even quite young puppies. Does it matter if my puppy is a bit plump? We all used to think that puppy fat was a good thing. When I was a child fat puppies were the norm. Perhaps this extra layer of fat was helpful in sustaining the puppy during illness before vaccinations were widely available for dogs? Nowadays, the thinking is that puppies should be slim. With a defined waist, just like an older dog. It causes their bones to grow too rapidly as well. And this may result in painful skeletal abnormalities in later life. Chubby Lab puppies might be plotted higher than average on the Labrador puppy growth chart, but if they are a shorter stature they could be following the line. You need to assess your pup by how they look and feel. Weighing your puppy If your puppy has been ill and is very thin, or if he has become rather overweight , you might consider weighing him in order to monitor his progress on a Labrador puppy growth chart of your own. If you can see his ribs, or feel them very easily just beneath his skin, your Labrador puppy is too thin. If in doubt, check with your veterinarian. You can show them your Labrador puppy growth chart too, so they have a good idea of how they are progressing. My dog weighs 35lbs at six months old. Is that OK? I mentioned above that an average Labrador might weigh around 50lbs at six months old. But there is huge variation around this figure. To illustrate how much very healthy puppies may vary, there are 6 month old Labs on our forum weighing 30lbs, and others weighing 60lbs! These are very different points on the same Labrador puppy growth chart, but could both be healthy animals. And the truth is, no-one can tell you exactly what your six month old pup should weigh, or indeed your Labrador of any age. What age does a puppy turn into a dog? When does a puppy no longer belong on a Labrador puppy growth chart but instead have reached their adult size? And when will your puppy be a fully grown up dog? There are three aspects to changing from puppy to dog: physical maturity and mental maturity. Sexual maturity in puppies People are often surprised to discover that puppies become sexually mature before they are full grown. These sexually mature pups still belong on the Labrador puppy growth chart, and will gain weight and height. Most Labradors are physically capable of breeding while still puppies. Though of course they should not be allowed to do so. Many female Labradors come into season for the first time between at between six and nine months old. Though some will be over a year old. And most male Labradors are ready and willing to mate well before their first birthday! Mental maturity in puppies Not only is your Labrador physically still a puppy when he or she reaches sexual maturity. He is also very much a puppy mentally and emotionally. In fact, many experts do not consider a Labrador to be fully grown up and mature until they are around two years old. In practice, there is no exact age at which you can definitely say your puppy is a grown up. Some puppies mature mentally and physically quicker than others. As a broad guide, you will often hear people use 18 months as the divide between Labrador puppy and adult dog. When do dogs stop growing? Most Labradors will have completed much of their growth by their first birthday and will stop growing completely before their second. Beyond this point there is no need to plot their weight on a Labrador puppy growth chart, but instead they should just be monitored physically. Weights vary greatly among individuals of this breed and puppy weight unless very extreme, is not a great guide to health. Enjoy your puppy for what he is, large Labrador or small. Just remember to check with your vet if you think he is unwell or not growing as he should. Is your Labrador puppy still growing? Do you think the runt of the litter is going to surprise you by reaching the upper end of the scale? Were your predictions at X months completely confounded? Share your anecdotes in the comments box down below!

We are a northern California breeder near Sacramento that prides itself on choosing our breeding dogs for top health, temperament, and beauty that conforms to the breed standard. Our dogs are selected from champion lines with health clearances. We will only breed dogs that pass all of these tests, so we can continue reaching to improve the breed through imposing high standards for our dogs. We breed dogs from these lines to continue a heritage of excellence in the breed. This standard is different from the AKC standard for golden retrievers, but both are accepted and licensed. The English type should have a blockier and fuller head, shorter muzzle, lower ear set, rounder eyes, stouter body structure, as well as a lighter color than the American type see comparison figure below. As an adult, it has been a pleasure to now show and selectively breed these beautiful English Golden Retrievers. Raising our English Golden Retrievers is a family endeavor that includes everyone from the youngest to the oldest. It is wonderful to make family memories with our dogs and children together. Our English Goldens are first and foremost pets who live and play among our family. Our children are involved from showing our dogs to whelping the puppies. Our puppies go home to their new families very loved and well socialized. In Northern California, we are located in Newcastle which is at the base of the Sierra Mountain foothills; close to Sacramento, and about miles from San Francisco or about miles from San Jose other cities near us are Roseville, Loomis, Folsom, Orangevale, Auburn, Lake Tahoe about an hour , and Reno about 2 hours. We can deliver our puppies to you if you are out of state, and personally travel with the puppy to bring your puppy to you. We cordially invite you to visit us and meet our beloved puppies and amazing dogs. We're located in the California Gold County just 25 miles east of Sacramento. Surrounded by golden foothills, we offer the perfect place to meet and enjoy the dogs. Expect to be greeted with wagging tails and wet noses during your visit, as our dogs are always excited to meet new people. Please let us know when you would like to visit by booking an appointment. The care and love you, Heather, and all at Classic Heritage devote to these pups is remarkable. The efforts taken to ensure pups are matched with their new happy forever home are excellent. Everyone I met was equally professional, educated, loving, kind, and a lot of fun. All of the dogs are beautiful and happy.We have had the best experience and have the most loving pup so anything we can do to help Classic Heritage we would. We have recommended you to everyone who has asked. We have answers. Golden Retrievers are among the most popular dog breeds in the United States, and for a good reason! These gentle and intelligent dogs have a cheerful, laid-back personality that makes them wonderful family pets. Fun facts about Golden Retrievers include that they are incredibly smart, ranking fourth among the most intelligent breeds. They are also known for their love of water and swimming, and can easily learn to fetch things from the pool. As puppies, Golden Retrievers are known for being extremely playful and are known to have a good sense of humor. Managing allergies with Golden Retrievers starts with selecting the right breed and the right individual pup. A hypoallergenic breed like the Golden Doodle should be considered or, if a purebred Golden Retriever is preferred, look for a pup that is from parents whose ancestry offers a low-shedding coat. Beyond this, to help manage allergies, start a regular grooming routine and make sure to groom the pup regularly to remove as much allergens as possible. Consider an air purifier for the room the pup will occupy and vacuum regularly. To ensure that your Golden Retriever remains healthy and happy, it is important to know what not to feed it. If you are uncertain, it is best to consult an experienced vet who will have knowledge on the foods that should be avoided due to the potential for digestive issues, allergies, or other potential health hazards. Common foods that should not be given to Golden Retrievers include, but are not limited to, chocolate, raisins, onions, garlic, fruit pits, and grapes. Preparing your home for a new Golden Retriever is important in creating a safe and comfortable environment for your furry companion. Start by puppy-proofing the area: block off stairways, move any hazardous items, or make sure there are no openings to dangerous areas. Make sure that all doors and windows can be securely locked. Preparing a special area with his bed, food, toys, and water bowl is ideal. Some items you may need to purchase are chew toys, treats, and collars. Other helpful items may include a crate, gates, and a leash. Golden Retrievers are certainly considered large dogs. They tend to weigh between pounds and can be up to 24 inches in height. Though, when considering the sheer number of breeds, they do not reach the size of the larger dog breeds like the Great Dane, Scottish Deerhound, or Irish Wolfhound. As such, while Golden Retrievers are considered large, they are not large when compared to some of the larger breeds. The exact amount of walking your Golden Retriever should get each day depends upon many factors, such as its age, size, and current physical condition. Generally speaking, an adult Golden Retriever should get at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, though some experts suggest 45 minutes to an hour per day is ideal. It's important to understand, however, that activity should be tailored to the individual dog's needs. For example, if your Golden Retriever has joint issues, you may need to focus more on activities that are easy on the joints, rather than walking. Yes, Golden Retrievers are widely known for their sweet, friendly nature, and they do generally get along very well with children. They are very loyal and protective, so kids can often feel safe just knowing that they have a fur-baby that looks out for them. Training a Golden Retriever can be relatively easy since this breed is known for their intelligence and eagerness to please their owners. It takes consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement as with any breed, but Golden Retrievers usually respond quickly to their owners' commands. As long as your Golden Retriever is taught commands in a loving and consistent manner, you can expect the training process to progress smoothly and quickly. To ensure optimal results, provide your dog with a variety of rewards, such as verbal praise, treats, and the opportunity to play and exercise.

A proper-fitting harness with the correct features can provide the best fit, comfort, and control. Whether you have a small pup or a large adult, some harnesses can provide the safety and security your dog needs. This comprehensive guide will help you discover the best harnesses for German Shepherds so you can choose the one that works best for your pup. Several key factors must be considered when selecting the best harness for your German Shepherd. These include the type of harness, adjustability, leash attachment points, and comfort. The type of harness should be based on your dog's activity level and the type of walks you plan to take. A no-pull dog harness might be a good option if your dog is a puller. For more active dogs, a pull-style harness can help control their energy and provide structure during walks. Additionally, adjustable straps, leash attachment points, and breathable fabric are important features to look for when selecting a harness for your pup. Finally, comfort is key for any harness you choose, as you want to ensure your pup is comfortable and secure. How Many Types of Harnesses for German Shepherds Several types of harnesses are available for German Shepherds, each designed to cater to specific needs and preferences. Understanding these different types can help German Shepherd owners select the best harness for their furry companions. The most common harness types for German Shepherds include: 1. No-Pull Harnesses No-Pull Harnesses, often called range dog harnesses, are designed to reduce pulling and help with training, making them perfect dog harnesses for German Shepherds. Typically made of sturdy nylon or neoprene, these harnesses feature a loop around the dog's head and neck and another loop around the dog's chest. The loop at the neck tightens when the dog pulls, redirecting the German Shepherd dog's attention away from the pulling and towards the handler, ensuring maximum control. The benefits of no-pull harnesses include better control and improved training for German Shepherds and other breeds. However, drawbacks include a possible decrease in mobility, difficulty properly fitting the harness for smaller dogs and potential pressure on the dog's throat. Nonetheless, the best harness for German Shepherd dogs will provide the ideal balance of control, comfort, and durability, making it an essential tool for dog handlers and German Shepherd owners. Front-Clip Harnesses These harnesses, commonly known as front-clip harnesses, have a clip in the front, allowing the handler to control the German Shepherd or other breeds from the front instead of from the back. They are a great option for dogs that pull, as the handler can easily redirect the dog's attention by gently tugging on the leash, making them an ideal choice for German Shepherd puppies and adults alike. The benefits of front-clip harnesses, such as improved training and better control, make them popular among the best harnesses for German Shepherds. However, drawbacks include a possible decrease in mobility and difficulty in properly fitting the harness for smaller dogs. Overall, well-designed German Shepherd harnesses with a front leash attachment offer handlers an effective tool to manage their dogs, ensuring a more enjoyable and controlled walking experience for both the dog and its owner. Back-Clip Harnesses These harnesses have a clip on the back of the dog, allowing the handler to control the dog from the back. They are often used for show dogs and those that need additional control. The benefits of back-clip harnesses include better control and improved training. Drawbacks include a possible decrease in mobility and difficulty in properly fitting the harness for smaller dogs. Dual Clip Harnesses These harnesses have two clips, one in the front and one in the back. They are a great option for dogs that pull, as the handler can easily redirect the dog's attention by gently tugging on the leash. The benefits of dual clip harnesses include better control and improved training. Tactical Harnesses These harnesses are designed for military and law enforcement use and are typically made of heavy-duty nylon or canvas. They have a loop that goes around the dog's neck and several metal leash attachment points. Benefits of tactical harnesses include better control and improved training. Range Dog Harnesses These harnesses are designed for tracking and search and rescue work and are typically made of breathable air mesh. Benefits of range dog harnesses include better control and improved training. Key features to look for in the best harness for German Shepherds Material and Durability: Look for a harness made from a durable material that can withstand the strength and activity level of a German Shepherd. A range harness with breathable air mesh is ideal, as it keeps the dog cool and prevents overheating. Adjustability and Fit: The harness should have four adjustable straps to ensure a snug and comfortable fit. It should also be designed to fit the dog's body shape, with a snug fit around the dog's chest and throat without causing discomfort. Comfort and Padding: A good harness should have soft padding to prevent rubbing or chafing, especially during long walks or strenuous activity. This ensures maximum comfort for the dog while wearing the harness. Reflective Elements and Visibility: It is important to look for a harness with reflective elements, especially if you walk your dog in low-light conditions. This enhances visibility and ensures that motorists and other pedestrians can see your dog. Ease of Use and Maintenance: A good harness should be easy to put on and take off, with quick-release buckles allowing easy adjustment. It should also be easy to clean and maintain, with washable material that doesn't fade or lose its shape over time. Leash Attachment Points: A harness with two metal leash attachment points, including a front and back clip, provides maximum control and lets you choose the best position for your dog's leash. A front clip harness is especially useful for training purposes and discouraging pulling. Some examples of popular and highly rated harnesses for German Shepherds include the Rabbitgoo Dog Harness, which features a front clip and a range of sizes for a customizable fit, and the Julius-K9 IDC Powerharness, which has a sturdy design and is highly durable. Top harness recommendations for German Shepherds 1. The harness features a stylish, sporty look with reflective stitching to ensure your dog's visibility in low-light conditions. Adjustable straps provide a snug, customized fit. While the no-pull design prevents strain on the dog's neck and spine. The harness's soft, padded material ensures maximum comfort, and the built-in handle allows for greater control during walks or training sessions. With Chai's Choice, you can trust that your German Shepherd will be safe, comfortable, and stylish. This heavy-duty harness features a military-inspired design with MOLLE webbing to attach gear, such as water bottles or treat pouches. The adjustable straps ensure a secure and comfortable fit, while the no-pull front clip discourages pulling behavior during walks. The harness is made from high-quality, water-resistant materials, and its reinforced stitching ensures long-lasting performance. The OneTigris Tactical Harness is the ultimate choice for those seeking a rugged and functional harness for their German Shepherd. Its no-pull design features a front and back clip, allowing you to attach the leash in the best position to control your dog's pulling tendencies. The harness is made from breathable, lightweight material to ensure your dog's comfort during extended walks or training sessions. With adjustable straps and a customizable fit, the Rabbitgoo No-Pull Pet Harness ensures that your German Shepherd will feel secure and comfortable. At the same time, you enjoy a more relaxed walking experience. This robust and durable harness features a dual-clip design, allowing you to attach the leash to the front or back clip for optimal control. Its adjustable straps and easy-to-use buckles make it a breeze to find the perfect fit for your German Shepherd from puppyhood to adulthood. The harness is constructed with high-quality, breathable material, and its reflective strips ensure your dog's visibility during nighttime walks. Its no-pull design includes a front clip to discourage pulling and a back clip for more relaxed strolls. The harness is made from a soft, padded material to ensure your dog's comfort, while its sturdy construction guarantees long-lasting performance. Adjustable straps allow you to customize the fit, making it suitable for German Shepherd puppies and adults alike. With the Big Dog No-Pull Harness, you can confidently walk your German Shepherd, knowing you have the best harness to support its strength and energy. A harness benefits a German Shepherd by providing better control, reducing the risk of injury, and discouraging pulling. The best harness for a German Shepherd would be a no-pull harness, which helps to distribute pressure evenly across the dog's body and prevents choking. How can I tell which clip style to buy? There are two main clip styles: front-clip and dual-clip harnesses. Front-clip harnesses attach the leash to the chest, which helps to reduce pulling. Dual-clip harnesses offer both front and back attachment points, providing versatility in handling your dog. A dual-clip harness is recommended for a German Shepherd as it offers more control and adaptability. How do I size my German Shepherd for the right fit? To size your German Shepherd for the right harness fit, you must measure its girth the circumference around the widest part of its chest, just behind the front legs and its neck size. Use these measurements to select the appropriate size according to the manufacturer's sizing chart. Remember that each brand may have different sizing standards, so always consult the specific size chart. How can I tell if the harness is too tight or too loose? A properly fitted harness should be snug but not tight. You should be able to fit two fingers between the harness and your dog's body. If you can fit over two fingers, the harness is too loose and may cause chafing or allow your dog to slip out. If you cannot fit two fingers, the harness is too tight and may cause discomfort or restrict movement. Do I need a handle on my harness? A handle on a German Shepherd harness can provide extra control and support, especially in crowded or challenging situations. While not necessary for every dog, a handle can be helpful for training, handling reactive dogs, or assisting with mobility issues. A tactical harness often includes a handle, which can benefit German Shepherds in various situations. Conclusion Selecting the best harness for your German Shepherd is crucial to ensure the perfect fit, comfort, and control during walks and training sessions. By considering factors such as clip style, size, and features like breathable air mesh lining, you can decide on the best harnesses for your German Shepherd puppy or adult dog. Investing in a high-quality harness is essential for your dog's comfort and safety and helps create a well-controlled and enjoyable walking experience for you and your furry friend. Embrace the journey with your German Shepherd and experience the benefits of a thoughtfully chosen harness that prioritizes their well-being and happiness. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. After all, you want the best for your canine companion. So, what do you need to consider to ensure you get the best dog harness for your German Shepherd? The easiest way to ensure comfort for your German Shepherd is to pick one made of the lightest material available. The material used on the interior of a harness is important for comfort too. We would also recommend picking a harness with a vest design since these tend to give the neck better protection by not tugging against it and relieving it of any pressure. After all, with their sheer size and strength, it can be a nightmare getting them back under your control when they escape from a harness. The material the clasps are made from is important too. You need a strong V or D-ring as a leash attachment for a strong and reliable connection. Proper Fit Before buying a harness, you need to know what size fits them. So use all the adjustable straps available, making it bigger or smaller until you get the proper fit. Ideally, it needs to be snug enough to keep them secure, but loose enough to be comfortable. A general rule of thumb is to be able to leave room for two fingers to fit between your dog and the harness. Budget A good-quality harness will inevitably cost a fair bit. Consider a harness a long-term investment. A no-pull harness is ideal for large breed dogs — the less they pull, the easier and more pleasant walks will be. Some German Shepherd harnesses that claim to be no-pull harnesses simply distribute pressure across the whole body. The front leash attachment point discourages your German Shepherd from pulling by redirecting them towards you whenever they tug at the leash. If they ever tend to pull, it might be best to pick a no-pull dog harness to train them not to pull. Regardless of which harness you pick though, you need to make sure that you get the right size and can adjust it to the best fit. But when it comes to walking, collars are never as effective or as safe as a harness. A harness can also help you as the dog owner control your German Shepherd and discourage them from pulling, making walks much more pleasant for both of you. Matt Twinley Matt spends his days working with Halie, his adorable cockapoo puppy, by his side. Having owned a variety of pets his whole life, Matt is passionate about animals and always feels most at home with a furry friend. He loves learning about animals and how to care for them. Leave a comment Your email address will not be published. Post Comment.

We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. Labradors are known for being versatile dogs and great companions. However, they have a distinctive look that is hard to miss. But why does your Labrador have a curly tail? Labradors can have curly tails due to genetic variations. This can come about through Labradors breeding with other dogs with curly tails as a standard breed characteristic. You'll also learn the signs that a medical issue needs to be taken care of quickly. In this article Standards for Labrador Tails For a Labrador to be considered part of certain breed classifications, dogs must meet specific established standards. There is an extensive list of characteristics a dog must have, and cannot have to qualify as a particular breed. Docked tails or tails that curl over to touch the body do not meet the AKC standards for a Labrador's tail. The standards give further details on what the tail should look like. Labradors will usually have tails that are straight and thick. So, neither the tail nor its tip should be able to curl around to come in contact with the back. There are several faults, also known as disqualifying points, that will exclude a dog from qualifying as a Labrador. Therefore, Labrador tails should not be docked or their natural length altered; otherwise, this is a disqualification. Curly tails or naturally short or thin tails are merely considered faults. These features include a Labrador with too short a tail, a long, thin tail, or a tail that curls over the back. A curly tail will not disqualify your dog from being a Labrador, it may just lose points in a show. Such variations are just genetic differences and do not necessarily mean it is not a purebred Labrador. Another reason is that the bones are wedge-shaped and naturally form a curve. Curly tails are commonly the result of hemivertebrae. Therefore, many dog breeds will have the curved tail as a standard for their species. Genetic Reasons for Curly Tails Curly tails will be a result of genetics. If the dog exhibits pain with its tail, this could signify that the process causing hemivertebrae is ongoing. The AKC standards count a curly tail as a flaw. Crossbreeding can be a cause of a curly tail. If the breeder has guaranteed that you have a purebred Labrador, but it has a tail that does not meet the breed standards. The OFA maintains databases to track health concerns of dog breeds. This database will also require input from breeders and parent clubs of dog breeds. I actually used this test on my dog. Check out this article to see my journey with the test and the timeline of when I received my results. AKC provides certification for up to 4 generations. This certification only measures pedigree and so will not list health conditions or medical problems. Curly tails or tails that hang over the back are listed variations of a Labrador per the AKC. This means that it is more an aesthetic preference for the dog breed standard than tracking health risks for dogs. Straightening a curly tail is impossible without unnecessary surgery. Attempting this can cause severe issues with the tail should it not go as planned. Legal Actions If you have purchased your Labrador because you thought it was purebred or full-blooded, you may have a cause for action. It would likely be a breach of contract as the agreement was that the seller was supposed to supply a purebred dog breed as agreed upon. You should keep all copies of any correspondence of the advertisement or seller communication, you should keep it. If the Labrador is described in terms such as purebred, then the agreement is not for a dog with other breeds mixed into it. If the contract was oral, it might be harder to win legally due to a lack of proof. Limber Tail Dogs can have a condition called Limber Tail which can mean the tail is limp or drooping. This condition will indicate that although the tail may be upright, the tip is drooping down. Limber tail is often the result of muscle sprain from activities like swimming. Other causes can be prolonged crate confinement and excessive exercise. Generally, the sprain will fix itself after a few days, but it is time to visit the vet if you notice no improvement after a week. Limber tail will likely cause your dog pain, and so anti-inflammatories can help. Always consult with your vet to determine an appropriate course of action, but medication to help reduce swelling has been shown to speed up recovery. Conclusion A curly tail on a Labrador is likely nothing to worry about health-wise. It serves important functions like communication, balance, and coordination. It comprises vertebrae, with larger bones at the base and smaller ones near the end. These individual segments are separated by soft discs — similar to those found in spinal columns — providing flexibility for movement. This natural curl helps them maneuver effortlessly through water or tight spaces during adventurous pursuits. Labrador puppy tails are built with strength and adaptability. It allows them to communicate emotions efficiently or swiftly navigate through tricky situations. Labrador Tail Types Labrador tails cannot be explicitly divided into different types. However, the tails may appear different from one dog to another. The reason for what they were bred can make a difference. Show dogs are bred to match the distinct breed standard. Dogs not bred for appearance can have a distinct look. A working lab can have a thinner, longer, shorter, or curly tail. Every other dog of this breed may not have the same thick tapering tail. Two dogs can have tails with slight variation. A black lab tail, a yellow lab tail, or a chocolate lab tail can be slightly different. It serves as a way for dogs to express themselves, whether happy, scared, or nervous. If a Labrador Retriever wags its tail rapidly from side to side with excitement when greeting you, it indicates happiness. If their tail is tucked between their legs while cowering away from something or someone, it shows that they are fearful or anxious. These dogs were originally bred for fishing and hunting. Their powerful tails were essential for diving into icy waters and retrieving fish from boats. Their tails were also selectively bred for balance, coordination, agility, and communication. The thick base provided strength while swimming or moving about in the water or on rough terrain. The thin tail tapering toward the tip enables nimble movements on land or water. When your Labrador wags its tail vigorously while jumping around, it reflects excitement. A slow tail wagging signifies uncertainty or confusion, while a tucked tail between the hind legs shows submission or anxiety. Dogs communicate with their entire body language, not just their tails alone. They use subtle cues such as ear movements, eye contact, posture, vocalizations, and tails to express feelings. Balance, Coordination, And Agility The thick base of their tail is a counterbalance when running or jumping. It allows them to make sharp turns and sudden stops easily. When swimming, the tapering shape of the tail helps generate thrust in the water. Ensuring your Labrador gets plenty of exercise and playtime keeps their tails happy and maintains good muscle tone. Swimming And Water Activities Labrador Retrievers love water, and their thick tail is a powerful rudder. The breed was originally developed to retrieve from water bodies, making it an integral part of their DNA. It provides balance while standing or moving on slippery surfaces like rocks or boats. This painful condition causes the tail to become limp and flaccid. It can occur suddenly, usually after intense physical activity like swimming or overexertion. Most cases of Limber Tail Syndrome resolve themselves within a few days. Supportive care like rest, heat therapy on the tail base using a warm washcloth , and anti-inflammatory medication help. Limber Tail Syndrome is not life-threatening but can be very uncomfortable for your dog. A wagging tail may look harmless, but it can be quite powerful and easily hit hard objects, causing injury. Fractures and dislocations are more common in dogs with short or thin tails. Treatment includes rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and sometimes physical therapy. Mast cell tumors, including Labradors, are the most common type of tumor found in dogs. These tumors originate from white blood cells and can manifest differently depending on their location. If located near the base of the tail or spine, it may cause pain or discomfort. Regular visits to the veterinarian detect any potential health issues early on so they can be treated promptly. Provide exercise for proper circulation, and ensure adequate nutrition with supplements like fish oil or glucosamine. Keep the fur around the base of their tail trimmed to avoid matting or tangling. Use a dog-friendly shampoo to wash their tail when needed. Trim any long hairs on their tail using sharp scissors or clippers, careful not to cut too close to the skin. Check for any signs of injury, such as cuts or bruises, and seek veterinary care if necessary. Swimming, running, and playing fetch are all excellent ways to keep your dog active while promoting a healthy tail. Give your furry friend plenty of opportunities to swim in open water or a pool. Water activities help strengthen their powerful tails as they paddle through the water. Running on soft surfaces like grass, sand, or dirt keeps their joints healthy and reduces the risk of joint problems. It can affect their tails over time. A balanced and nutritious diet includes high-quality protein, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids. Fatty acids maintain healthy skin and dense coats, promoting healthy tails. Hydration is crucial for a happy tip-tapping tail! Provide clean water at all times so they remain hydrated throughout the day. The ideal Labrador tail should be thick at the base and gradually taper toward the tip, with no signs of kinks or knots. According to AKC breed standards, a wagging tail can indicate friendliness. But excessive wagging or stiffness can denote fear or aggression. Docking or altering their tails can cause unnecessary pain and discomfort, leading to long-term health issues. With proper care comes better communication through body language signals. Labrador tail is medium and not longer than the hock per breed standard. However, some tails can be different from the standard. However, a labrador tail does not curl up over its head. Yes, golden retrievers can have curled tails. This is not a breed standard, but it is not uncommon either. Some golden retrievers may have a slight curl in their tail, while others may have a more pronounced curl that goes all over their back. What is the otter tail on a Labrador? The otter tail in a labrador is a thick rounded appearance. The thick look comes from the thicker coat. The tail has a small c-shape, is pointed downward, and is fairly straight. What does a Labradors tail look like? Labradors usually have a thick tail base that tapers toward the tip. It is free from feathering and is medium in length. It is thick with a short and dense coat surrounding it and gives an otter-like appearance. What does a lab tail mean? A stiff lab tail held high reflects confidence and dominance. It means your labrador will not back down. A low tail tucked between the legs indicates fear. Labs have thick and sturdy bodies with broad heads and long otter-like tails. The tail helps them steer in the water and reflects their emotions. Labrador retrievers have about 15, hairs per square inch of skin. This means that a full-grown Labrador retriever with an average surface area of 20 square feet would have about million hairs on its body Why does my Lab puppy have a curly tail? A lab can have a curly tail due to genetic variations. It can also occur when a lab is bred with another dog breed with curly tails. The happy tail syndrome can also cause a curly tail. Genetic traits determine the specific tail shape of a dog and can vary from straight to curved or curled. This variation results from natural selection, historical environmental factors, and selective breeding practices. Her experience as a pet owner and dog enthusiast drives her to create meticulously researched and fact-checked content, offering valuable insights on Labrador training, grooming, and health. Each article reflects Shradha's passion and dedication, enriched by personal experiences with her beloved Labradors, Tom, and Kurt. Whether exploring breed-specific training techniques or providing product reviews, Shradha ensures Labrador owners receive the most accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy information, aimed at enhancing their companions' health and happiness. Labrador tail injuries Lab tails are thick and tapering, covered in the same dense hair as the rest of their bodies. Labrador tails are also practical, helping them to steer quickly through water in their original retrieving role! Some Labs may have shorter or thinner tails than average, which is considered a fault in show dogs. Happy Labrador puppies wag their tiny tails! The traditional Labrador Retriever tail is thick and gradually tapers towards the tip. Unlike some other retriever breeds, such as the Golden Retriever, Labradors have little to no feathering on their tails. Instead, their entire tail is covered in dense fur, like the rest of their body. However, some Labrador tails fall outside of this standard, being shorter, longer, or thinner than average. Instead, it follows their topline the line from their neck to tail. Giving them the overall balanced appearance that we know of this breed! Labradors can use their tails to help with swimming, as a powerful rudder. Labs communicate through their tail — like other dogs. Some Labrador tails curve upwards although not over their back , and others may be dead straight. Labrador Tail Types There are no real different Labrador tail types. But, Labrador tails may look slightly different from one dog to the next, depending on what they were bred for. For instance, Labs bred for show are bred to fit the strict breed standard. Dogs who are not specifically bred for appearance can differ a little more. So, you may find working Labs with thinner tails, shorter or longer tails than average, and even tails that curve upwards a little more than you expect. Of course, many theorize that the otter tail shape also helps Labs with their working ability. Some may have a thinner tail, or one that does not taper so gradually. Lab Tail Colors These variations can happen in Labs of any color. Labrador Tail Injuries It is possible for your Labrador to injure their tail. The most common problem that affects Labrador tails is limber tail. Other than limber tail, this condition is also called water tail, swimmer tail, limp tail, and more. If your Lab has limber tail, their tail will hang lifelessly, or may jut out a little before hanging limp. But, fortunately, there are ways to help a Lab suffering from limber tail. Potential risk factors for limber tail include swimming, high latitudes, and even genetic predisposition. If your Lab seems to be suffering with limber tail, you should take them to your veterinarian straight away. In the first 24 hours, anti-inflammatories can be given to shorten the length of the flare up. And, your vet will be able to give your Lab dog-safe pain relief, if nothing else. This could take anywhere from a few days to over a week. Do you have a Labrador with the popular, classic otter tail? Has your hard-working retriever ever suffered from limber tail? Find Out More.