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We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Also known as a borador, or border Lab, this energetic and clever mix combines the best traits of its parent breeds. If you are looking for an affectionate and lively companion dog that loves children and can keep up with your active lifestyle, check out the border Lab! Medium to large in size, these pups are best suited for active families and homes with access to securely fenced backyards. Take this to heart. We had a borador who was an absolute escape artist. He found his way out of our backyard and to the local park on nearly a daily basis. This exceptionally smart mix craves attention and needs a lot of mental stimulation to stay on the best behavior. When bored or left to their own devices, border Labs can become destructive and resort to chewing or digging just to have fun. If you want an outgoing, eager-to-please, loyal, and smart mixed-breed dog for your family, read on! Border Collie Lab Overview Size — 19 to 24 inches tall, weighs between 40 and 65 pounds Coat — Short to medium-long double coat, color varies Shedding — Moderate to heavy shedding Lifespan — 10 to 15 years Temperament — Eager-to-please, outgoing, clever, and energetic Trainable — Highly trainable but can become bored if not mentally stimulated Activity — Very active needs around one to two hours of activity every day Best For — Active families and people, and homes with outdoor space What Is A Labrador Border Collie Mix? As you may have guessed, the Labrador border collie mix is a cross-breed created by mixing a purebred Labrador retriever and a purebred border collie. While both parent breeds are officially recognized by the American Kennel Club, the borador is considered a designer dog breed. Border Collie And Lab Mix Appearance Like all other mixed-breed dogs, no two border Labs are the same and there is no way of knowing exactly what you will get when mixing a border collie and a Lab. Most, however, have a Lab-like build, although they are on the thin side. When it comes to the head and general features, this mix takes more after the Labrador, but they do have the slightly pointed nose of a border collie. However, nothing is set in stone, and the only thing you can do is wait and see how your border collie and Lab mix puppy will grow up to be. With that being said, there are some things you can expect from your mixed breed, mainly when it comes to size and coat color. Size As a mix between Labrador retriever and border collie dog breeds, expect your border Lab to be a medium to large size dog. Most border collie Lab mixes are between 19 and 24 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 40 and 65 pounds. There are yellow, brown, black, and fox red Labrador retrievers , but border collies come in many different colors and markings. Most border Labs have brown, black, or tan coats and white markings like their border collie parent. The amount of white fur varies greatly from one borador to the next, with some dogs having completely solid coats and others having several white markings. Coat Depending on which parent they take after, boradors can have short to medium-long coats. Having a double coat means your Lab mix is going to shed moderately all year round, and lose more hair during the shedding season. Most border Labs are outgoing and people-loving dogs that make amazing family pets. In fact, this mix is so friendly that they will likely meet everyone with a wagging tail. They generally become fast friends with children and are very gentle with them. However, thanks to their border collie ancestry, some boradors may try to herd and nip smaller children or other pets. If your mix exhibits this trait, know you can curb their nipping tendencies with training and positive reinforcement. As an offspring of the border collie — the smartest dog breed in the world — the borador tends to be pretty smart as well. Aim to take your border collie Lab mix for at least two long walks every day and also include several playing sessions throughout the day. Games such as fetch, tug-of-war, hide and seek, and flyball are some great ways to exercise your borador and keep it mentally stimulated. Our Border Lab mix, Maffy was high, high, high energy. Obviously inherited from the Border Collie side of the equation. However, a Lab is no slouch when it comes to energy level. Caring For A Borador As with any other dog, you should develop a care routine as soon as you bring a border collie Lab mix puppy home. Exercise Ideally, boradors need around one or two hours of exercise every day. Activities such as running, swimming, jogging, cycling, and hiking are just some ways you can keep your mix exercised and in good shape. Boradors also excel at agility, which is a great way to keep your dog both physically and mentally challenged at the same time. Intellectual Stimulation Since they are very smart, border Labs do best with lots of mental stimulation. If not properly challenged, your mix will become destructive and turn to digging and chewing to relieve boredom. A word of caution, a bored Lab border collie mix might be a recipe for disaster! You might return home from work only to find your shoes, pillows, or carpets chewed and shredded to pieces. Invest in durable chews, interesting puzzle toys to stimulate your dog , and spend some time every day interacting and playing with your pooch to keep them mentally stimulated. Our Border Lab got into all kinds of trouble in the yard digging holes and hiding treats throughout the yard. Another game he enjoyed playing was dropping his ball into the swimming pool. Then wait till it floats to the middle then jump in after it. Without mental stimulation Boradors definitely invent their own games. Companionship Eager-to -lease, loving, and friendly border Labs are true companions and are happy as long as they are involved in all family activities. These dogs crave attention and companionship, and they are best suited for homes where there is someone who can spend a better part of the day playing and interacting with them. When left at home alone a lot, this mix can develop separation anxiety and become destructive. Grooming When compared to other Lab mixes, the borador is a fairly low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. Although they shed moderately all year round, their coats are easy to groom and need to be brushed two times a week. Brushing your mix regularly with a slicker brush will help you remove loose hair and keep the shedding to a minimum. Diet An ideal diet for a border Lab should be formulated for medium to large size dogs with high energy. Make sure to feed your mix with age-appropriate high-quality dog food that contains all essential micro and macronutrients. Avoid free feeding your mix and set up a regular feeding schedule to prevent obesity and health problems associated with it. Although border Labs are generally healthy, they are prone to some of the same health problems that affect Labrador retrievers and border collies. This can be extremely painful for a dog, causing arthritis, difficulty walking, and lameness later in life. Collie Eye Anomaly: This is a congenital eye disease that occurs in border collies and affects the retina, sclera, and choroid. CEA is caused by a recessive gene defect and can be a mild condition or cause blindness. Hypothyroidism: This is a condition in which the thyroid gland is no longer able to produce the hormone thyroxine. Life Expectancy The border Lab has an average life expectancy of 10 to 15 years. When properly cared for and taken to regular veterinary checkups, some boradors can reach senior years completely healthy. We had a Border Collie Lab mix that we rescued from our local animal shelter. They told us he was approximately 2 years old when we rescued him. He lived with us for 18 years! Add on the approximately 2 years he lived before he came to our home he lived a whopping 20 years! True to their parent breeds, border Labs are eager to please and very intelligent, which makes them highly trainable. Like all other dogs, the Lab border collie mix responds well to positive reinforcement and reward-based training. Start training and socializing your borador puppy as soon as you bring them home when they are eight to 12 weeks old. While your pup might seem small, you can start potty training and teach them basic commands. Border Labs make truly wonderful companions and pets to active people or families with children. Couch potatoes be warned; this designer hybrid needs a lot of exercise and will keep you on your toes. Due to their energetic nature and high exercise needs, boradors need a home with access to a fenced yard where they can run around and play. Buying A Border Collie And Lab Mix Puppy If you want to purchase a border collie and Lab mix puppy, find a reputable breeder and schedule an appointment to visit their facilities. A reputable breeder will let you meet the mother and all the puppies. Check your local shelter and rescue groups to see if they have any border Labs. You can also contact Labrador retriever and border collie breed-specific rescue groups since they often take care of mixed-breed dogs too. History Of The Breeds Labrador Retriever One of the most popular dog breeds in the world, the Labrador retriever originated in Newfoundland where they helped fishermen catch fish. Universally loved for their kind, friendly, fun, and loyal nature, Labs make great family pets and companions. Highly intelligent, gentle, and eager-to-please, Labrador retrievers are favored as service dogs and are often seen assisting people with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives. Border Collie Developed in the border country between Scotland and England, the border collie is a working and herding dog breed. Originally bred to herd sheep, border collies are a highly intelligent and very trainable dog breed. Naturally athletic and energetic, border collies need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and thrive. Boradors are good companions and amazing pets to active people and families with children. They tend to be friendly, loving, eager-to-please, and smart, which makes training fairly easy even for novice owners. As long as they are properly exercised and provided with the attention they need, border Labs make wonderful pets. Are boradors aggressive? Boradors are rarely aggressive towards people or other dogs and tend to greet everyone with a wagging tail. Inherently friendly and kind, the collie Lab mix gets along well with children with whom they become fast friends. How much does a border collie Lab mix cost? Conclusion Extremely clever, eager-to-please, and friendly, the border collie Lab mix makes a great pet for active people and families with children. True to its parent breeds, this mix has a lot of energy and needs lots of exercise and mental stimulation, otherwise, they can become bored and destructive. Boradors are best suited for: Outdoorsy people and active families with children Homes with securely fenced backyards People who can interact and play with their pup every day We told you a little about our Border Collie Lab mix, Maffy, but how about you? Have you ever owned a Borador? What was your dog like? Tell us about your experiences 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. This means they are not considered a purebred dog or a designer dog breed. Border Collies are athletic, loyal dogs with a high energy level. They love to move and work with their families. You can also meet the mother dog in-person for an idea about what to expect regarding general size and temperament. On the Border Collie side, you have a highly intelligent, affectionate, and loyal dog that loves to be active and loves to work. Border Collies get along well with other dogs and children, but can be reserved or slightly suspicious towards strangers. Otherwise, they will find their own entertainment, which might result in them herding your children or a flock of sheep into your kitchen. The Border Collie Mix could take all of its characteristics from the Border Collie, from the other parent dog breed in the mix, or be any combination of characteristics from both. Before bringing a Border Collie Mix home, make sure you take some time to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed of the litter. This will give you a good idea of what possibilities to prepare for in your Border Collie Mix puppy. The Border Collie is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They may be a high-energy dog breed that prefers wide open spaces, but they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get plenty of mental stimulation and exercise. A well-exercised, mentally engaged Border Collie is also okay with being alone. In terms of climate, this dog breed does best in a moderate climate as they do not do well in hot or cold climates. With a Border Collie Mix, you could end up with a dog that is moderately adaptable like the Border Collie. Or, you could end up with a dog more similar to the other parent breed. This could result in a more adaptable or less adaptable dog depending on the cross. Having a conversation with the breeder about the other parent breed can clear up some of the confusion and give you a better idea of what to expect. Border Collies are generally healthy, but can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. You can also ask about the genetic history of the parents and check out health screenings and health clearances to rule out some conditions. On the Border Collie side, you have a dog that is highly intelligent and eager to learn. They are generally difficult for the average person to train, so you will want to enroll in obedience and training classes with your Border Collie Mix puppy regardless of the other parent breed. Even if the dog breed in the cross is highly trainable for novice dog owners, there is the possibility the puppy will pick up Border Collie characteristics and be more difficult to train. A well-trained and properly socialized puppy is more likely to grow into a well-rounded dog, so make sure you start training and socialization early. Border Collies have a weather-resistant double coat that requires weekly brushing. They also have heavier shedding sessions as the seasons change and need to be brushed more frequently during this time. Depending on the other parent breed in your Border Collie Mix, their coat could require more or less grooming. Finding out about the other parent breed from the breeder will give you an idea of what you could expect when it comes to coat. Regardless of the coat, all dogs need to have their nails trimmed, teeth brushed, and ears checked regularly. For most dogs, trimming nails once a month is sufficient. When it comes to dental care for your dog , brushing their teeth daily is recommended. This will help prevent the tartar and plaque buildup that leads to dental disease. If your Border Collie Mix has ears that drop down, they are more prone to moisture and developing an infection. Regularly checking them and cleaning as needed helps reduce the risk of ear infections in your dog. Border Collies have a lot of energy and never seem to get tired. They love to be moving and working. Plus, they were originally bred to run several miles a day and they still have the energy to do so. It is important that you are prepared to handle a high energy working dog when you choose a Border Collie Mix puppy. If the other parent breed is a couch potato, your puppy could end up having a lower energy level. A Border Collie tends to weigh between 30 and 50 pounds and usually stands 18 to 22 inches tall. The other parent breed could cause this to vary. So, be sure to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in your Border Collie Mix. Also, make sure you stop by to meet the mother dog. There are always exceptions, but the size of the mother will at least give you something to work with. A Border Collie typically lives 12 to 15 years. You could expect a similar range in your Border Collie Mix with the understanding that the other parent breed could affect the range one way or the other. Featured Border Collie Mix Article. Breeds By Meg Marrs 6 min read September 24, Comments K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. When you combine two already-awesome things, you usually wind up with something even better. And this is especially true when you are talking about mixed-breed dogs. For example, Labradoodles, chorkies and Gerberian Shepskies are a few of the most well-known and popular designer dogs, but few mixtures are as reliably awesome as the borador — a cross between a border collie and a Labrador retriever. Labrador Retrievers Labrador retrievers are one of the most popular breeds in the world the most popular breed, according to the AKC. They are famous for being loving, fun, energetic and intelligent pups, and most people who can provide proper training and sufficient exercise fall in love with their labs. Although originally developed to help fishermen collect their nets and retrieve escaping fish, they also excel in hunting, therapy and bomb-sniffing contexts. Of course, labs also make fantastic family pets; they are gentle with children, friendly with strangers and simply love to hang out with their people. Labs are medium-sized dogs, who typically weigh somewhere in the to pound range. They have very thick, short- to medium-length hair and come in three different color forms: Black, golden and chocolate. Border Collies Border collies were originally used as herding dogs, but they also make great family pets. Border collies have one of the most well-developed work ethics of any breed, and they are very smart many authorities consider them the most intelligent breed. This means that you must keep them busy and stimulated, or else they may become destructive. Border collies are very good at a number of different jobs, and people frequently use them in agility, disc, obedience and tracking competitions. Most are very friendly and loving with their families, although they occasionally exhibit a bit of dog aggression. Border collies are covered in fairly long, soft hair, and they are generally black with white masks, chests and feet. However, some border collies also display patches of brown. Most weigh between about 30 and 50 pounds. Borador Traits and Characteristics While boradors can vary from individual to individual, most are relatively similar in terms of appearance, personality and skills. Image from Pinterest Size and Shape Boradors are medium-sized dogs, who are generally about 15 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 35 and 65 pounds. However, all dogs are individuals, and some will fall outside of this range. Boradors usually have a lab-like build, although they are often on the thin side. Color Patterns Most boradors have black and white markings, like their border collie parent. However, the amount of white fur varies greatly, with some individuals being nearly black and others possessing several large, white patches. The most common places to see white on these dogs is the face and chest. Temperament Boradors are typically lovely dogs, who are sweet and affectionate with their families. While they will gladly bark at strange noises or people, they make friends quickly and generally get along with people and dogs alike. Neediness Boradors usually prefer to be with their pack as much as possible. This can lead to separation anxiety and other problems, if they are left alone for long periods of time. Image from Pinterest Intelligence As you may expect, when you cross two of the smartest dog breeds in the world , their offspring tend to be pretty sharp puppies. Make sure to have some dog puzzle toys on hand to keep those canine brains sharp! Energy Level Given the fact that both of their parent breeds are bursting with energy, it should come as no surprise that boradors are some of the most energetic dogs on the planet. Owners who are not willing to go on multiple walks and toss the ball for a while on a daily basis should look elsewhere for a pet. Boradors who do not get enough exercise and playtime often become very destructive and depressed. Training Potential Most boradors love to work with and please their person, so they are generally easy to train. However, their impressive intelligence can occasionally make training difficult, as they can be headstrong from time to time. Nevertheless, most boradors respond well to firm, consistent training based on positive reinforcement, so grab your clicker and a handful of treats and teach your borador a new trick! Health Profile Boradors are generally healthy dogs, who are not especially susceptible to many illnesses or ailments. Bloat can also be a concern, given their relatively deep chests, so encourage your dog to eat slowly consider investing in a slow eating bowl or — even better — start a hand feeding routine and insist on a period of calmness after meals. Maintenance Needs Boradors tend to have the short hair of their lab parent, which means they need relatively little grooming or maintenance. Lifespan The average lifespan of boradors can vary widely, but most probably live between 10 and 12 years. Best People and Families for Boradors The best families for boradors are active and love to get out and about with their pooch. They may not be the best choice for families that already have other pets particularly cats , although some seem to get along with other pets more than others. What kinds of things surprised you about your borador? Did she present any special challenges? Let us know in the comments below! Like it? Share it! Breeders vs rescue dogs A Combined History Mixing dog breeds is not a new thing. In fact, cross-breeding has been around for centuries. But, it takes many years to create a distinct breed that is recognized and registered. Designer dogs are typically named based on the breeds used for mating. Border Collies and Labradors are both intelligent working dogs. They have been selectively bred for generations to choose dogs that are driven as well as cooperative, but in slightly different ways. Border Collies are a traditional herding breed mostly used by sheep farmers to control their unruly flocks. Labradors on the other hand spend more time waiting than working, then have bursts of energy fetching fallen birds over long distances and tricky terrain. Like many of the other designer breeds, the Borador has come into existence within the last 10 to 20 years in North America. By mixing the lovable Labrador with the hard-working Border Collie, breeders hoped to get the best of both worlds — an intelligent, energetic, and people-oriented dog that suits almost any role. Most Labradors are quite a bit bigger than Border Collies. But, your mix could fall anywhere between the sizes of its parents. Most Borador dogs will be somewhere between 40 and 60 pounds. Females are usually smaller than males. While Labradors are seen with a solid yellow, brown, or black coat, this mix often takes on the distinct dual or tri-coloring of the Border Collie. You could also end up with a beautiful black Lab Border Collie mix. Black is a dominant coat color, so the black Lab Border Collie mix is one of the most common colors. This can be in a plain form, or bi-color pattern, such as a white and black Lab Border Collie mix. Grooming and Shedding The Border Collie parent can have long or short fur. Labs will have short dense fur. Your Borador mix could be anywhere inbetween. Both parent dogs are known to shed all year round, and heavily during hotter seasons. So, expect to find lots of fur around your home if you own one. Use a bristle or pin brush for grooming once or twice a week and use a slicker brush to remove any mats that you see. Especially if your dog spends a lot of time exercising outdoors. You may need to groom more frequently when shedding is at its heaviest. Border Collie Lab Mix Temperament These dogs can inherit some very unique and positive personality traits from their parent breeds. For starters, Collies are extremely intelligent. According to studies completed by the American Psychological Association, the dogs have the same mental abilities as a two to two-and-a-half-year-old child. While Labradors may act more like toddlers, and have a good deal of smarts themselves, what really stands out about them is their kindness, happiness, and generally easy-going attitudes. Socialization Early socialization is hugely important if you want to raise a healthy, happy, outgoing dog. This process involves exposing your puppy to other dogs and to different people when they are young. It is done so that your dog will not be fearful or aggressive around new people or dogs. Ideally, socialization should begin when your puppy is between 3 and 14 weeks of age. Luckily, both the Border Collie and Labrador are known for their easy, kind temperament, so you should find this process easy and effective. Training Both Labradors and Border Collies are dogs with high levels of intelligence. So, a Borador is likely to become bored and disruptive if not properly entertained. Training can go a long way to help with this. There are various programs that can help you with training. Keep in mind that studies show that positive reinforcement or reward based training are best for your dog. Not only is it highly effective, but it reduces the incidence of problem behaviors and anxiety issues. Borador Energy Levels It should not come as a surprise that the Border Collie Lab mix also needs a fair amount of exercise. They are extremely active dogs that love to run, play, and exert energy for hours each day. The Lab part of the mix typically calms down the hyperactive nature of the Border Collie. But, it depends entirely on the traits they inherit. Some Borador mixes will still have strong herding instincts and could even try to herd young kids or other pets in the house! Border Collie and Labrador Health All dogs are at risk of certain illnesses. The Borador is no exception. Here are some health problems that potential owners should be aware of: Hip dysplasia. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. If you are looking for a friendly and energetic dog to adopt into the family, then the Borador, which is a mix between a Labrador retriever and a border collie, might be a perfect choice! Attractive, intelligent, and friendly to a fault, these dogs have the perfect temperament for playing at home with the kids or accompanying their parents on epic adventures. However, they do need lots of love and attention to thrive. While there exists a diverse range of different types of Boradors, the most popular mix is between a black Labrador and a border collie. This typically results in a distinctive and sleek black pup, often with white accents. Always consider heading to your local shelter before purchasing a pup. Read on to learn everything you need to know about Boradors and decide whether they are the perfect pup to join your home. The breed was established in the s and has been one of the most popular dog breeds in the Western world ever since. Their friendly nature, intelligence, and eagerness to please make them ideal working dogs, and you will often see Labs in service dog roles such as disability assistance. Their composure makes them the ideal dog to accompany their owners into public spaces, though they are known as big shedders. The border collie is a herding dog that was developed along the Anglo-Scottish border. It was officially recognized as a breed in .Border collies are both intelligent and athletic, which has made them favorites as sports dogs, particularly in sheepdog trials. It is believed that initial combinations of Labs and border collies were probably accidental, but breeders soon realized the combination made for a very desirable mix. While all kinds of Borador mixes exist, the most popular mix is between black Labradors and border collies, creating distinctive-looking black dogs with white accents. The term is not generally used for accidents, but rather specifically for these designer dogs that are emerging. However, it is important to differentiate between crossbreeds and pure breeds. Pure breeds tend to pass down physical and character traits in a very predictable way, making it possible to define the breed. When it comes to crossbred dogs, though, there is less consistency in the way characteristics manifest. It is possible to generalize to an extent about what to expect from a crossbred dog, and breeders do control for characteristics as much as possible. Luckily, when it comes to Boradors, you are working with two incredibly intelligent and friendly breeds, so the result always tends to be something special. Borador Appearance Labrador and border collie mixes are medium-to-large-sized dogs that tend to fall somewhere between the size of their two parents. Breeders typically make sure the mother is larger so they have no trouble passing the baby pups. Labradors tend to be between .They usually weigh between 55 and 80 pounds. Border collies are a bit smaller, reaching between 18 and 22 inches in height and weighing between 30 and 55 pounds. They tend to have a longer muzzle and a leaner physique, though this is not always easy to see through their medium-length hair. As a result, you can expect a Borador to be between 19 and 24 inches tall and weigh between 40 and 65 pounds. Remember, you can get a better idea of the potential height and weight of a puppy by looking at their parents. Most Borador pups tend to have the slightly heavier build of the Labrador, though they are usually a little on the thin side. They also tend to have the broad face of their Lab parent, though with a longer, more pointed nose. You can usually expect your Borador puppy to be a mix of whatever color their parents were. Most puppies take on the more solid black color of their Lab parent coupled with the white markings of their border collie parent. So, if you are mixing a black Lab with a border collie, you can expect a mostly black dog with white accents. Boradors typically have a double coat that will either look like the short hair of a Labrador retriever or the medium-length hair of a border collie. Regardless of their coat color, your Borador will shed quite a lot, as both Labradors and border collies are known for their high-shedding coats. Borador Personality Labradors and border collies have a lot of personality traits in common, so the characters and temperaments of Boradors are relatively easy to predict. First and foremost, both breeds are considered to be highly intelligent. They can both learn new things quickly, and they are also able to think independently. This allows them to adapt to new situations and determine what is expected of them, even if they have not been provided with specific instructions. But unlike very independent dogs that can be difficult to train due to their stubbornness, both Labradors and border collies were bred to work alongside humans. This has made them very eager to please, which makes training through reward and positive reinforcement highly effective. This is also why Labradors can be trained to complete the complex tasks required of a guide dog for the blind and why border collies can be trained to deliver elaborate tricks in a sporting dog competition. You can expect a Borador to be highly trainable as well. Both dogs tend to be friendly with strangers and other animals rather than territorial. They are more likely to be curious and keen to make friends than raise the alarm. This quality makes Boradors great companions but not very effective guard dogs. Their affectionate nature tends to be particularly notable with children, around whom they are instinctively careful. It is generally considered safe to let Labradors and border collies play with small children, though they should be supervised at all times in case of any mishaps. This can involve giving them a nip that is designed to surprise rather than hurt. Fortunately, they can easily be trained out of this behavior if you notice it and implement corrective training early on. While they can safely be left alone for up to four or five hours at a time, they can develop anxiety if they are left alone for long periods of time while everyone in the household is off working. You can expect them to respond with destructive behaviors, such as digging and chewing. This is not done out of vengeance but rather boredom or frustration. Finally, these dogs are very energetic, and they need lots of exercise. Ideally, they should get at least an hour of activity each day, spread out over two shorter sessions. They will also love to accompany you on weekend field trips and hiking adventures. Due to their size and energy levels, Boradors do best when they have a big home with a nice backyard to play in. While they can be trained to put up with apartment living as long as they have regular opportunities to stretch their legs, it is not the ideal environment for them to thrive in. Borador Health Risks You can expect a Borador to have a lifespan of around 10 to 15 years, which is respectable for a dog of their size. While they are generally healthy dogs, they are at risk of some health conditions. In particular, they may develop elbow or hip dysplasia, which is a painful malformation of the joints that can make movement difficult, especially as they get older. Boradors are less likely to develop this condition if they get sufficient exercise and have a healthy diet. An orthopedic bed will also give them a lot of comfort in late life. Boradors are susceptible to a variety of different eye conditions that can cause them to partially lose their sight in later years. This can be highly disorienting for them, but they can still feel comfortable in a familiar home where they know where everything is. Finally, Boradors can also be prone to obesity, as they have little control over their hunger hormones. This is why it is imperative that they get enough exercise and that you monitor their calorie intake, reducing or increasing portions as required. Never leave food out for these dogs; they do best with strict and limited meal times. With all that information in mind, you might still be wondering whether a Borador is the right dog for you. Here are a few questions to consider when making your decision. A Borador can actually be a great dog for first-time owners. They are easy to train and they have a friendly temperament, so you are unlikely to find yourself dealing with an aggressive or troublesome dog. A Borador will want to be part of the family and involved in everything. You also need to invest time in exercising them and teaching them, as they need the mental stimulation of training. Do you have time to look after a dog like this? If so, the Borador is likely a good choice. How Big Is Your Home? Boradors are pretty big dogs with lots of energy, so they do best when they have quite a bit of space. Will your home feel full with a inch-tall dog wandering about? Additionally, do you have an outdoor space where they can let off energy when needed? When you bring a Borador puppy home, you can expect them to live for anywhere from 10 to 15 or more years. Can you handle the responsibility of caring for them for that time, including the financial responsibility of caring for them? Do you have people who can look after them when you go away or in case of an emergency? Dog ownership is a big responsibility, regardless of the breed you adopt. Yes, Boradors are considered very good dogs, especially if you are looking for a loyal and fairly easy to manage family dog. They are highly intelligent, very trainable, and bond with families quickly. Boradors are high-energy and need a lot of attention, so they are best for families that have time to enjoy them. How smart are border collie Lab mixes? Both border collies and Labrador retrievers are considered among the smartest dog breeds, alongside the likes of poodles and German shepherds. As a result, you can expect crossbreeds that bring together their genetics to be highly intelligent. How much does a border collie Lab mix cost? Can Boradors swim? Labrador retrievers are known for their love of playing and swimming in water, so there is a good chance their Borador offspring will also love a good swim. If they have the longer coat of their border collie parent, just beware of the amount of water that they are likely to drip after a swim! When is a Borador fully grown? Boradors actually remain playful puppies for quite some time and can take quite a long time to reach their full size. You can expect females to reach their full adult size when they hit around 24 months, while males take a bit longer and are not fully grown until around 36 months. While the dogs will also lose most of their puppy energy upon reaching adulthood, they will remain energetic and athletic dogs for most of their lives. The Verdict If you are a first-time dog owner or anyone looking for a friendly, intelligent, and easy to manage dog to adopt into your family, a Borador is a great choice. Since their Labrador and border collie parents are both intelligent, trainable, and friendly dogs, their offspring are sure to inherit these wonderful traits. Overall, the Borador crossbreed is: High-energy and needs plenty of space to feel comfortable Agreeable, friendly, and loyal, though they are prone to developing separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time Quite large dogs, like their Labrador and border collie parents While Boradors are generally easy to manage, they also need quite a bit of your time and dedication to stay happy. Take time to consider whether you have the time to look after one of these pups properly before taking them home. Do you have any experience with Boradors? Share your insights with the community in the comments section below. Related Article:.

Is the Boxer Bulldog mix the best pet for your family? What is a Boxer Bulldog? But, as dog fighting ceased over the years, the American Bulldog and the Boxer developed into calm and affectionate family pets. The Boxer Bulldog mix has none of the aggression its parent breeds used to have. Bulldog Boxer crosses make excellent watch dogs as they are naturally alert, swift, and protective of their masters. This American Bulldog Boxer breed is a high-energy, curious dog that needs to always have something to do. Otherwise, they will get destructive when bored. Bulldog Boxer mixes are intelligent and athletic, and they love to play and be around their human family. What does a Boxer Bulldog mix look like? The Bulldog Boxer mix is a large dog , with a muscular body, a wide chest, and a medium-sized tail. As we mentioned above a full grown Bulloxer weighs around 70 to 90 pounds 31 to 40 kg and is about 22 to 27 inches 56 to 69 cm in height. American Bulldog crossbreeds tend to share the same stocky body. Check out the American Bulldog Pitbull Mix , for instance. Many Boxer Bulldog mixes have the signature Boxer look we all love, with a square-shaped jaw, a short muzzle, and short floppy ears. How difficult is it to take care of a Bulloxer? Caring for this crossbreed is easy. Checking and cleaning its ears once a week will also keep ear infections at bay. How do I train a Boxer Bulldog mix? Early socialization and obedience training are necessary for Boxer Bulldog puppies to grow up as happy and well-behaved dogs. Socialization prevents them from becoming overprotective and aggressive towards other people and pets. Here are a few things you need to remember when training these pups: They are intelligent and eager to please their owners. Clicker training works best for this breed. How long do Boxer Bulldogs live? Like we mentioned on the fist paragraph as well, the average Boxer Bulldog mix lifespan is 10 to 15 years. An adult Bulldog Boxer needs 3 to 4 cups of good-quality dry dog food, divided into three evenly spaced meals daily. This pooch need to be active as they can be overweight. Bulloxers need 30 to 45 minutes a day of play to maintain a good weight and maintain their muscular build. Their short muzzles and short hair make Boxer Bulldog mixes uncomfortable in cold weather, and they may also suffer from skin diseases and joint problems. How much is a Boxer Bulldog mix? Given the price of Boxer Bulldog puppies, it is important to find a good breeder should you intend to buy your own pup. If finding Boxer Bulldog breeders proves to be challenge, you may check these breeders of American Bulldogs and Boxers:. The Bulloxer is a Boxer American Bulldog mix. Breeders most likely bred the Bulloxer to have an intelligent, intimidating guard dog. Both parents come from unfortunate dogfighting pasts in 19th century Europe. The Confident American Bulldog parent Meet the white American Bulldog puppy The American Bulldog is a descendant of its English Bulldog breed , which had an unfortunate past of being bred and used for fighting and bull-baiting until these deplorable sports were banned in the s. After, breeders began turning the tables and breeding these dogs as compassionate family dogs rather than fighters. The American Bulldog dates its lineage back to 17th century America. They were probably first introduced to the United States in the s as working dogs with their immigrant owners. Females weigh pounds 27 to 36 kg , and males weigh pounds 34 — 45 kg. They stand strong at inches 50 — 64 cm , females on the shorter end of this spectrum. Their muscular stature lends to their self-confidence, as well as strength and endurance, as they were once farm-working dogs. The AKC recognizes them as a Working dog breed. The Boxer we know today most likely originated from German Bullenbeisser dogs in the s. In medieval times, these dogs hunted large game like bison and bear. Boxers have been successfully used as military dogs, therapy dogs, herding, and guard dogs. The Boxer is a fearless, protective companion who moves with both power and grace. A full-grown Boxer can weigh as much as pounds kg , with females typically weighing 15 pounds less than the male counterpart. They stand at .Their short coats are usually fawn or brindle with white markings. Their life expectancy is years. What does a Bulldog Boxer mix look like? The breed typically has short, floppy ears and a broad, jowly nose. They rock a thick chest and square head that adds to their intimidating look. Their tails are medium-length but often docked. A short muzzle with a slight underbite inherited from their Boxer parent is really the cherry on top if you ask me— it brings out their goofy, gentle side in their overall appearance. How big do these dogs get? These dogs are large, weighing in at pounds kg and stand tall at inches cm. While these are large dogs, they are adaptable to apartment living as long as they have access to a park or yard nearby and receive the proper amount of exercise. Coat and color of this crossbreed These dogs typically have short, dense coats— good news for owners on the hunt for a breed with low maintenance grooming needs. Their coats will come in colors such as white, light brown, brindle, or fawn. Since Boxers tend to have white markings along their chest and face, the Bulloxer may inherit this stylish appearance. Pros and Cons of the Boxer Bulldog personality The Gentle Guard Dog: The Pros They have an intimidating look and make excellent guard dogs as they are incredibly protective of their owners. Clicker training is an excellent choice for this breed. For a better idea of how entertaining these dogs are, check out this video of Kimble, an American Bulldog Mix with musical talent: Bulloxer or Bulldozer? They may become destructive if bored— talk about a rebellious streak! The crossbreed is susceptible to separation anxiety, which may be the cause of these behaviors. Bulldog Boxers need more than an owner; they need a boss. A Bulloxer may have more energy than it can handle. They can get super rowdy, jumping and running around. These dogs may not get along with other larger dogs, so if you have others in your household or plan on having multiple dogs in your house, this breed may not be for you. Regular teeth cleaning is essential. Ideally, this should be done every day. But begin with brushing as often as possible— some dogs hate this! Clean them out once a week with a cotton ball and dog-specific ear solution to avoid wax buildup, which can cause infection. They could easily break which can not only be quite painful but also cause infection. Playful Exercise Needs Bulloxers are energetic dogs who need minutes of active play a day to maintain their strong, athletic builds. I want to note that large-chested dogs are prone to a serious and deadly condition called bloat, usually brought on from too-quickly eating large amounts of food or too much exercise right after eating. The Food-loving Dog Diet A full grown Boxer Bulldog mix needs about cups of dry food a day, split between meals. These dogs are prone to joint issues, to make sure to pick a dog food rich with vitamins and both chondroitin and glucosamine. These dogs are prone to obesity, so stick to a strict feeding schedule and keep snacks to a minimum, with a healthy balance of food and exercise. Boxers have specific needs, so it may be best to feed a Boxer-specific diet. Are they healthy dogs? Boxers are prone to major health risks like cancer prevalent also in Bulldogs and Epilepsy. Bulldogs have their own impressive list of health risks. Bulldogs are susceptible to allergies and various skin issues, like eczema. There are plenty of loyal, healthy dogs deserving of good homes. Breeder options if you must If you absolutely must buy from a breeder, I recommend doing a great deal of research beforehand and asking the right questions— many breeders are just disguised puppy mills. Some questions to ask a potential breeder are: What are your adoption application procedures and requirements? Where do you get your dogs? What are your health screening procedures? Who is your working veterinarian? What are your follow-up procedures and requirements after adoption? What kind of follow-up resources will you offer me? How many times will you or have you bred mom and dad from this litter? And Bulloxer litter sizes are typically adorable little puppies. This is mainly due to the array of health issues from its Bulldog parent. They can weigh pounds and stand at about inches. The breed is so rare that there is little information about them, but their lifespan is years. Boxer Victorian Bulldog mix — The victorian Bulldog was specifically bred to have a healthier Bulldog breed, which turned out to be a huge success. Comment below! With a background in animal science, dog training, and behavior consulting, her hands-on experience and extensive knowledge make her a trusted source for dog owners. When not writing or leading the K9 Web content team, Cess can be found volunteering at local shelters and participating in dog-related events. Leave a Comment. Known Diseases Epilepsy Definition: Dog has epilepsy if, for example, at least two epileptic seizures occur more than 24 hours apart. Kidney disease Symptoms of kidney disease in dogs: increased urination polyuria increased water intake. Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the mouth. Loss of appetite Wobbler syndrome In veterinary medicine, this is the name given to a complex of symptoms caused by nerve damage in the area of the spinal cord or spinal cord nerves in the area of the cervical spine. Cardiomyopathy In large breeds of dogs, dilated cardiomyopathy DCM is by far the most common cardiomyopathy. A mix of Boxer and American Bulldog usually has the physical characteristics of both parent breeds, including a muscular body, square head, and short coat. However, there are some differences in appearance, and some dogs may prefer one parent breed more than the other. How big do Boxers and American Bulldog mixes grow? Boxer and American Bulldog mixes are usually medium to large in size. They can weigh between 54 and 70 kg and grow up to 58cm high. How do I care for a Boxer-American Bulldog mix? Boxer and American Bulldog mixes need lots of exercise, so a daily walk or play session is a must. They also need lots of mental stimulation, so games, training and chew toys are important. Be sure to socialize your dog from a young age to avoid aggression. What health problems do Boxer and American Bulldog mixes have? Boxer and American Bulldog mixes are prone to some health problems, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and heart disease. They can also suffer from allergies and skin problems. Are Boxers and American Bulldog mixes good family dogs? Yes, Boxer and American Bulldog mixes can be good family dogs if properly trained and socialized. They are usually loyal and protective of their families. However, they can be aggressive towards other dogs and animals, so supervision is required. Author Sissi Author Sissi is a blogger since , came on the dog .Since then she struts daily her steps with Loki through the world. The Beagdor Labrador-Beagle mix is a therapy dog for children and also accompanies her to schools. Secretly she fancies a French Bulldog as a second dog. Sissi is a blogger since , came on the dog .Useful Articles. Both of these are highly coveted breeds, recognized by the AKC with pedigrees and papers. Also, take a look at the facilities to gauge how well the puppies have been treated. Try to meet the parents of your pup too if you can. They can tell you a lot about the future of your puppy. Boxers were originally used for dog fighting, and they even got their name from the way they swing their front paws, which looks similar to a boxer throwing punches. The Bulldog is a brave beast of a dog that was originally used in bull baiting. They were so tough that they could even take down full-sized bulls, a feat that few other creatures could accomplish. Today, both breeds have become much calmer, which is why they make such great companions and guard dogs. A lot of that toughness remains though, and it makes for very athletic dogs. They only shed lightly and need very little grooming overall. They Can Become Destructive When Bored Bulldoxers are highly athletic dogs with above-average levels of intelligence, a mixture that often results in destructive behaviors when left alone. Your Bulloxer will need some mental and physical stimulation to prevent them from getting bored. Once your Bulloxer gets bored, you might come home to find the backyard full of deep holes or your couch chewed up into a million pieces! Make sure to exercise your Bulloxer plenty and keep them mentally engaged to avoid these destructive behavior patterns. This is a very loving and loyal breed that will want to stand guard, keeping the family safe. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They know how to be gentle with smaller creatures, including the children of their family. They tend to get along very well with pets of all types, even small dogs and cats. American Bullboxer Description The Bulloxer is not a purebred dog. It is a cross between the Boxer and the American Bulldog. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in any of the breeds in the hybrid. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. She loves to camp, hike, swim and sleep! At 6 months old he was about 65 lbs. Great personality and very smart. Too smart if you ask me. His father is a registered American Bulldog who weighs about lbs. I think he can do it! I know he makes me laugh. His dad is a lb. American Bulldog and his mom is a lb. He loves to play catch and he runs faster than any other dog at the dog park. He is very loving and has a sweet demeanor but definitely has a lot of energy and is a bit hard-headed. He is a wonderful addition to our family. He's still the fastest dog I've ever seen, and has grown to have the best personality. He watches television with us and plays with everyone friendly to him any chance he can get. All he wants out of life is the thrill of playing in the shallow waters and cuddles. All small breeds.Japanese Chin, Cockapoo and a teacup Shih Tzu. And I have 2 small kids. She is around 55 pounds or more in this picture. We just love Roxy. She is a sweetheart. She currently weighs 65 pounds. If all Bulloxers are like Roxy I don't think I would get any other type of dog again. She is so loving and kind to all of us. Its chest is broad and thick, and the head is in a square form. This hybrid has a short muzzle with a slight underbite. It can come in different colors or a combination of colors. These dogs are very energetic, playful, and loving but may also be stubborn at times. It is very loyal to and protective of its owner and will do anything to protect them from harm. You will have to show it a lot of love and affection for you to get the same from it. Although they are generally very friendly with others, you will have to train them consistently and socialize them early. If not properly socialized, they may become aggressive to those they think are threats. They enjoy playing around with their owners so it would be best to bring them out to do exercises from time to time. It needs to spend its energy on physical activities, or else they can become destructive at home. Never let them get bored or leave them all alone in your house because you might have to clean up a lot of destroyed objects when you get back. They are also prone to suffer from separation anxiety. Bulloxers are quick learners, but when your Bulloxer becomes stubborn, you will have to establish your dominance on it to make it listen to your commands. It is very strong-willed, so you have to be very confident when you are dealing with it in training. One thing you have to know about is that this hybrid often produces sounds and smell from multiple orifices on their body. Bulldog Combined with Boxer Puppies for Sale If you are sure that a Bulldog Boxer Mix is the right dog for you, then you have to find a reliable and reputable breeder. Nowadays, it is tough to find a breeder that you can fully trust. It is highly essential to get your puppy from a legitimate breeder since the way they were treated and raised to that point may have a significant impact on its personality, behavior, and as well as its health. There are thousands of breeders all over the globe, but only a few thousands of these are trustworthy. In selecting a dog breeder, you have to assess and analyze a lot of factors. You should visit their facility and see the space in which the dogs are kept in and check out what kind of food they are feeding the dogs. Try to assess the care and attention the breeders put into both the parent dogs and the puppies. You make sure that the breeders are knowledgeable about the hybrid, Boxer combined with Bulldog. There is no strict schedule that you have to follow. You only need to bathe your Bulldog Boxer when they are dirty. It is also not good to shower them often since it will affect the natural oils they have on their skin. Make sure to wipe its ears from time to time. Bulldog Combined with Boxer Health Problems Overall, a Bulloxer is quite a healthy crossbreed for its size and is not likely to suffer from many health issues. However, they are prone to obesity, which is why you have to regulate their food intake. A few Boxer Bulldog dogs have been known to develop different kinds of cancer, but it is rare for this to happen. Although they are not inclined to contracting many diseases, it is still essential to bring your pet to the vet frequently to have a general check-up. Here is a list of common canine ailments that they may suffer from throughout their lives: Hip Dysplasia — This is a common occurrence in dogs of this size. Because they are heavy, their joints have a tougher job in supporting their bodies. This condition will bring your pet a lot of pain, which is why you can opt for your Bulloxer to get surgery to correct it. Bloat — The cause of this disease is unknown. As soon as your Bulloxer exhibits symptoms such as shortness of breath, bring him to the vet immediately. Epilepsy — This term is used to describe multiple episodes of seizures. The most common cause of seizure in a dog is idiopathic epilepsy, which is usually a genetical predisposition, but there is no exact cause known. Your pet may not feel pain during an epileptic episode but will feel confused and may panic. Try to observe your dog, and if it has more than one seizure per month, then you have to get treatment from a veterinarian. Boxer Bulldog Mix Food Requirements The Boxer Bulldog is a larger than average dog, and it will require three to four cups of dry dog food daily. Try to avoid feeding your pet one big meal and instead divide the amount of dog food into two separate meals because Bulloxers are prone to bloating. Make sure that you give it dog food of high quality and one that contains all the nutrients it will need in a day. Remember to check all the ingredients in the dog food before purchasing them. Choose the product that has nutritional additives such as vitamins and minerals to keep your pet healthy. Since this crossbreed is likely to suffer from joint issues and pain, try to find food that has chondroitin and glucosamine. Do not buy products that contain unknown meat-meals or byproducts and those that contain various unnecessary additives like dyes. These dyes usually trigger food allergies of the dogs. It also contains different kinds of healthy fruits and vegetables such as pear, spinach, green, carrots, and blueberries. Nulo Adult Salmon and Peas This dog food has deboned salmon, turkey meal, and chicken meal as its protein source. This product leaves out any ingredient that may trigger allergies. It also does not have any grains, corn, wheat gluten, soy, artificial additives, colors, or flavors. It provides a balanced diet for all dogs. Also, it does not contain any soy or fillers, such as grain and gluten. You would not have to worry about your dog missing any nutrition because this dog food has all the nutritious ingredients that a Bulldog Boxer needs. Bulldog Boxer Mix Exercise Requirements Because this hybrid is very playful and enthusiastic, they will become very energetic inside the house, which is why you need to allow it to spend its energy outside through physical activities such as walking, jogging, or running. It loves stimulating its brain, so try to have them go through obstacles set up in your backyard from time to time. Your Bulloxer will need at least minutes of exercise per day. Be careful not to overwork and exhaust your pet because it might have breathing problems. You can utilize different types of toys and kinds of activities. Tennis balls are one of the toys that Bulloxers enjoy playing with the most. They love running around and fetching these balls, but after a couple of times of throwing, your arm will get very worn out. This device allows you to play with your pet companion for an extended period without wearing out your muscles. Boxer combined with Bulldog dogs have no problems with playing by themselves. Although they want you to participate in their playtime, they are still happy getting preoccupied with a toy. This toy is perfect for when you are suddenly too busy to play with your furry friend physically. It is a very sturdy ball and also glows in the dark, which makes it very attractive to your Bulloxer. This product is shaped like a football and is perfect for a game of fetch. It has deep ridges, which make it easy for dogs to pick up and carry. Your pet may play with this toy in the pool since it floats in water. Also, it comes in bright colors, thus, increasing its visibility. Boxer Combined with Bulldog Training Your Boxer Bulldog Mix dog is generally quick to train since it is smart and a fast learner, but they may, at times, be stubborn. Bulloxers have an independent trait, so they will do whatever they want to do if they feel like you are less confident. When you are dealing with this hybrid, you have to establish your dominance throughout the training session. There are two essential pieces of training that you have to do with your Boxer Bulldog, namely: Clicker Training. It utilizes positive reinforcement techniques. Researchers have proven that this method works exceptionally well for Bulloxers. Because Bulldog Boxer dogs are sometimes headstrong, harsh training techniques will not work and would bring about bad behavior. You should follow a click-treat-click-treat pattern so that your dog will understand that the sound of the clicker is associated with getting a reward. Do not let the pet see your clicker. House training. You have to establish a schedule for your pet to play, eat, and to go potty. This training is essential to maintain peace inside the home. Boxer Crossed with Bulldog and Families Bulloxers are excellent family dogs because they are very affectionate and very protective of their owners. They have a high sense of awareness of their surroundings and can be aggressive when they perceive something as a threat. This piece of information is vital to those who are looking for guard dogs. They are playful and enthusiastic, which is why they will also get along with children. Usually, these dogs are very patient with kids, but you might not want to leave them alone with very small offsprings. If you ever decide on getting a Boxer Bulldog mix as your furry companion, expect to feel more warmth and happiness in your household and your life.

Some owners refer to them as black and champagne or fawn. Also, when a white German Shepherd has red in its background, it shows up as a cream color. It is possible for particular black and cream German Shepherd puppies to grow into a black and tan look as they get older. Still, you cannot guarantee how the colors will shift or if they will change in the first place. Dog shows aside, black and cream dogs do not have the same intimidating look as darker dogs and can make for great gateway pets for those looking to adopt their first dog but find the alternative looks more intimidating. Ideal for: Households with young children can adopt black and cream puppies as these GSDs are easier to accept for little kids. Black All Black German Shepherds have no shot at dog shows but are much better at something else: guarding. This perception comes with the added assumption that your black German Shepherd is well-trained to deal with intruders. Even though these dogs are great at discouraging intruders, they have excellent temperaments and empathy to be family dogs. Black GSDs are not more aggressive than other varieties. Unlike solid black, most puppies only show their actual color weeks after birth. They also make shedding less annoying as the black hairs are less visible. A recessive gene causes the black color. Some black dogs have gold eyes, as shown in the image. Large houses are also perfect spacious places where such dogs must exhaust their excess energy. A bi-color features two colors, one of which is often black. Most will appear all black with brown feet or legs, as shown in the image. The AKC pioneered this categorization and is most relevant to dog shows where solid colors and bi-color dogs are judged differently. Depending on the specifics of the color, the dog-and-owner fit can vary. Sable Sable is a pattern often seen as color because of its visual impact. The sable color is named after the mammal sable, which also has a similar color. This type of German Shepherd has black peppered across its fur, giving a deeply crimson color that looks nearly indistinguishable from black and liver. The sable coat pattern appears visibly black as each hair has a black tip. Sable colors include black sable, gray sable, tan sable, red sable, and silver sable. If you like the look of this color pattern, head over to this article to learn loads more about this gorgeous variety; Sable German Shepherd. Ideal for: This shepherd dog is best for those living in sun-kissed suburbs where the true color of sable German Shepherds shines. White Featuring the look of a bleached wolf, the all-white German Shepherd is entirely white and represents quite the irony. It is often purchased because of its exotic looks but is also seen as flawed enough to disqualify from the show ring. In other words, it represents the positive and the negative results of judging dogs by their looks, where they are simultaneously loved and discriminated against because of their color. Given that the first German Shepherd was black, this dog is visually the farthest from its ancestors. There is often a misconception that this type is a mixed breed. However, the white German Shepherd is definitely purebred. Ideal for: Families with young toddlers can benefit from getting a non-intimidating dog. This leaves behind bi-color German Shepherds featuring black and a specific hue of tan that gives an overall deep gray look. Ruskin House of Shepherds They are often gray sable. However, many gray dogs have no black pigmentation, differentiating them from the sable. They have an aesthetic appearance and can tip top between work and show, though they are best kept as multifunctional pets. They look intimidating enough for strangers but acceptable even for younger children who have never had a big dog as a family pet. Nonetheless, they are pretty rare, so you may have to find a specialized breeder to adopt one. The color is rare because it is improbable to guarantee when breeding a single blue stud and rare to occur spontaneously. And the ones who breed rare GSDs only charge a lot per puppy. Since blue is a manifestation of black, it can appear in all German Shepherd looks that feature the black color. Therefore, these dogs are bred mainly in the working line, where black and tan are the most common colors. That makes blue and tan the most common bi-color look of blue German Shepherds. Ideal for: Individuals looking for an exotic, rare dog with a story would love to have a blue German Shepherd. Liver Liver as a color term is used almost exclusively to describe dark brown dogs. The shades of dark brown can vary, but the term stands. It is no different for German Shepherds, who are also categorized as a liver for being dark brown. With black not really being seen as color — white as a complete lack of color, brown has the best shot of getting the highest points for color richness — except in the show world. This is because the American Kennel Club sees livers as faults, and they cannot enter the show ring. However, liver German Shepherds are highly sought-after, making them some of the priciest German Shepherds to acquire. Still, their price is artificially inflated because of demand. Ideal for: Those who love the deep brown aesthetic will love a liver German Shepherd. Liver and Tan As mentioned earlier, German Shepherds with liver parents are pretty often liver-colored. While mutations did occur to manifest this look into the otherwise black line of GSDs, the genes of these dogs are relatively stable, making them great studs. Ideal for: Owners with prominently brown wardrobes can get a kick by extending their color preference to their dogs. Isabella Isabella German Shepherds face the same ironic fate as white GSDs, where they are simultaneously admired and acquired for their beauty yet disqualified or marked down from shows for their looks. Similar to liver dogs, the AKC views them as a fault. Isabella GSDs look lavender-flavored cappuccino in that they are a light lilac color. They have a distinctly feminine appearance regardless of gender and can make a beautiful addition to the family. Because of their non-threatening looks, they are readily accepted in suburban communities, whereas new pets can often get scrutinized unfairly. Isabella GSDs are rare because they come from a combination of recessive traits that might not even manifest in studs. Studs often have desirable dominant features, including rich colors. The Isabella color comes from the combination of liver and blue, one of which is rarely used for breeding. This leaves room only for blue genes to pass through non-blue studs, which is not entirely likely. Ideal for: Those who want to make a statement with one of the rarest German Shepherds will be satisfied with an Isabella dog. However, they better be willing to pay the premium. You cannot have a Sable Shepherd without having reddish fur. But the distribution of red and black or silver and a lot of black is what matters: the lighter coat makes up the backdrop over which the darker fur is peppered. Ruskin House of Shepherds Sable shepherds are rarely sable all over, and portions of their body feature only one of the two colors that make up their sable pattern. In other words, given black and red as primary sable-makers, these dogs are more likely to be black and sable or red and sable. Sometimes you can get a rarer color sable, such as the liver sable in the image. Brindle German Shepherds are the closest to sable in that they also consist of one color peppered across another in tiger stripes or a marbled pattern. Instagram: alastian. Black is far more prominent, and these dogs are the closest to the second generation of German Shepherds. Panda A Panda German Shepherd looks like a white or bi-color dog who tried to apply eye shadow for the first time. The area around their eyes is black, reminiscent of a panda. They have white color featured across their chest, limbs, feet, and tail tip, similar to a Border Collie. Panda Shepherds do not have any other similarities with the panda; the dog has an active temperament compared to the lazy panda. The gene is dominant, meaning it only takes one parent to replicate the pattern. It is also seen as a fault for conformation. My German Shepherd Pup Willow Still, getting a German Shepherd puppy with many white spots is a risk if you plan to enter him in a dog show as an adult. But if you do not care about dog shows, the white markings can be charming. It is rarer to find white spotting in black GSDs. These spots are more common in black and red, black and cream, black and tan, and liver variations. However, they blended in with her adult coat in time. A German Shepherd can have a black, blue, silver, or brown saddle though other colors are not definitively excluded. Saddle-back German Shepherds have to be bi-color by definition because the saddle is visible only in contrast with another, often lighter, color. Blanket The blanket is yet another pattern independent of color. Just like with saddle GSDs, being bicolor is a prerequisite just to spot the blanket. The saddle pattern has a better shot at dog shows between saddle German Shepherds and blanket ones. Since the blanket is dark, dogs with this pattern have an intimidating presence and are often used by the police and protective patrols. This makes them excellent guard dogs as they carry the same connotations. Mask Mask refers to the face of a German Shepherd with visible contrast in the face compared to the surrounding region. On the one side, they can have black fur over their faces, which gives the appearance of a mask, but the rest of their body can feature stripes brindle or the sable pattern. This study of dogs with colored masks found that the mask is caused by a specific allele referred to as a melanistic mask. Mask German Shepherds have a unique appeal, which makes people go to great lengths to acquire them. The mask is almost always black. In case the mask is a lighter color, it is categorized differently. The area around the mouth can be lighter, making the German Shepherd look more like a wolf. Some reverse masks also have a dark stripe down the muzzle, as in the image shown. Needless to say, these German Shepherds can be pricey simply because of their resemblance with wolves. They also are intimidating again because of this similarity. All the connotations they have with wolves, and their wildness come in handy when scaring away intruders. However, this is a myth, as they are as easy or difficult to raise as regular dogs. To breed them, you must have both the mother and the father, who carry the same reverse mask look. Like the masked variety, German Shepherds with a reverse mask can have other patterns as the mask or the reverse has to do with their faces. Speaking of wolves, the closest a GSD can come to having a wolf-like appearance is to have a reverse mask look and be a blanketed silver sable. The rarest color of German Shepherd is Isabella, which is also known as lilac. Not only is this color visually appealing, but it is also difficult to predict when breeding. The recessive blue and liver getting combined are not very likely, which makes almost all Isabella shepherds pleasant surprises. Getting a lilac shepherd from a reputable breeder is advisable because unscrupulous breeders may repeatedly breed puppies and neglect the non-isabella dogs hoping to profit from the lilac pups. Black is prominent across most variations of GSDs. From black and tan, often working lines, to black and red for showing, most German Shepherds have a hint of black. If you are looking for the most common overall color of a German Shepherd, the two that come out on top are black and red and black and tan. The show line dog of this bicolor look will be the cheapest yet will command a price significantly higher than a working dog of the same pair of colors. Some German Shepherd colors, such as blue and white, are controversial because they have been linked to genetic health issues, such as skin problems and deafness. Breeders who prioritize these colors over health can perpetuate these issues. Yes, the color of a German Shepherd puppy can be predicted based on the colors of the parents and the genetic inheritance of the color genes. By understanding the basics of color genetics, breeders can make educated guesses about the colors of their puppies. Do German Shepherds Change Color? German Shepherds do change color, especially if they are bicolor. This happens when they mature and shed certain colored fur but never grow it back. The color change is most prominent in brindle GSDs and sable shepherds, as the decrease in one shade of fur leads to a change in the overall look of the dog. No, the color of a German Shepherd does not affect its temperament. Temperament is determined by genetics and upbringing, not color. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are descendants of dark dogs but have come a long way since they were first shown as the perfect cross between beautiful and work-ready. GSD colors can vary from lighter ones like the rare Isabella all the way to solid black. The pattern variations include mask, sable, brindle stripes, and saddle, whereas colors can be solid or pair from the pool of black, red, tan, blue, silver, cream, liver, white, and gray. With over 30 years of experience working with dogs, this former Police Officer has seen it all. Find her on Linkedin! But did you know there are actually a variety of different German Shepherd colors? Alongside being a loyal and wonderful family companion, the German Shepherd makes an excellent working dog and has exceptional versatility. These dogs are known for being guide dogs, military or police dogs , herding dogs, search and rescue dogs and drug detection dogs! These pups are strong and muscular and they love to stay active. They are best brought up with a family who likes to exercise so they can join in the fun, otherwise they can become bored and frustrated when not kept entertained. Their personality can be a little aloof and they can be wary of strangers, but when raised correctly this breed is extremely loving and even gets on well with children! German Shepherds are a medium to large breed of dog. A male will weigh between 75 and 95 lbs, while a female will weigh between 50 and 75 lbs. While they can be prone to some health issues, the German Shepherd has an average life expectancy of between 10 and 14 years. A German Shepherd has either a medium length or long coat, but did you know that this coat could come in thirteen different colors? Read on below to find out more about this wonderful breed and the different German Shepherd coat colors. History Of The German Shepherd The German Shepherd was first discovered by Von Stephanitz who spotted them at a dog show and decided that this breed was the perfect standard for a working dog. Horand was the first breed standard for the German Shepherd breed and was bred alongside dogs with a similar appearance to give German Shepherd litters. They are thought to have first appeared in the United States in and were recognized by the AKC in .There are 13 different colors for the German Shepherd, although some are not as popular and can be considered faults by major Kennel Clubs. The most popular German Shepherd colors are black and tan, black and red, black and cream and black and silver. German Shepherds will have one of two coats, either a medium coat or long coat. They are both double coats, having a more dense guard layer with a softer undercoat. However, later, more attention began to be focused on the coat color and some thought that a lighter coat color meant a weaker dog. Their coat develops as they grow and will reach their final adult color at around three years old. The black and tan coloration is actually caused by a recessive gene. The black appears on the saddle and they may also have black on their face like a mask. The tan coloring will appear their chest, sides, underbellies and on their necks. Black and tan puppies will appear more black than tan until their adult coat has grown in at around 2 to 3 years old. Instead of a tan chest, side and underbellies, the color will be more of a strawberry blonde, although it can also be a dark red that is more pigmented than the tan GSD. This colorway is very popular among show dogs and is not often seen on working dogs. In fact, it is just a lighter variation and is caused by a recessive gene, much like when humans have blonde hair. It is still presented in the same way across the body, with the black on the saddle and face. However, they can partake in obedience competitions. This color of GSD comes from the working bloodlines of these pups. This is one of the least common colors for a German Shepherd dog. Again, because of their lighter color they are often not allowed to partake in dog shows. It is not known why this color appears, but it is thought to be down to a recessive gene. Although they are labelled bi-color, the majority of their coat is black and there are tan markings around their feet and legs, and maybe on their face. It is said the ratio of black to tan on these dogs is ! Often, bi-colored Gemran Shepherds are mistaken for black German Shepherds. However, if a GSD shows any sign of another color on their coat, then they are considered a bi-colored pup. As we mentioned above, if there is any sign of another color in this dog then they will be considered to be a bi-color dog. This color can be expensive and difficult to find because it is very rare. They are recognized by the AKC as a purebred dog and have the same origins at the other purebred German Shepherds, but they are just less common. A black German Shepherd puppy can be born to either two black parents or a black and tan parent. The black pigment trait is not a dominant gene and is, interestingly, a recessive gene. It has often been thought before that black German Shepherds have a straighter back than their different colored cousins, but this is yet to be proven as true. The solid white color was bred intentionally by breeders and is not a genetic flaw. However, it was seen as a weakness when bred through the working lines of the GSD, and is still to this day not recognized by the American Kennel Club. The white color gene is a recessive gene which means that both parents need to carry this gene to create a white German Shepherd puppy. White Shepherds usually have longer coats than other variations of this dog and therefore shed more. They are also a shyer and more skittish dog but are very gentle by nature and make excellent family dogs. This color is declared a serious fault and therefore these dogs are not allow to compete in shows, although they are recognized by the American Kennel Club. The blue pigment is down to a recessive gene and breeding them means that both parents need to carry the gene. These dogs commonly have blue eyes and their coat can come in three different variations — blue and tan, blue and sable or blue and black. The color is produced due to a dominant gene in one or both parents. The grey color comes from a dilution of darker pigment genes. Often, these dogs are born with bright blue eyes that turn a honey color or light brown as they mature. These pups are not popular as show dogs, but due to their distinct color are popular as companion dogs. The liver color appears all over the German Shepherd and, unlike many colors in this list, does not have any areas of black on the saddle or face. The mask and saddle are actually brown, because the liver gene blocks the black pigmentation. This is another color that is not popular among show dogs and is thought to be a fault. Contrary to popular belief, this dog is not a mixed breed and is a purebred German Shepherd. The Panda German Shepherd is created due to a rare genetic mutation. These dogs still have the more normal black and tan coloring, but there will be white spots on their coat. The sable coloring is not a solid color and a single hair can actually be a mix of a lot of different colors. Each hair has a black tip, while the rest of the hair can be gray, tan or golden. Despite their history, they are still not as popular as black and tan German Shepherds. A variation of the sable coat, these dogs also carry the agouti gene. In the red sable GSD, a deep reddish brown replaces the usual tan in the sable pattern. The red and brown is spread throughout the body, much like the different colors in the sable dog we mentioned above. For this reason, no two red sable dogs are ever the same. Yes, German Shepherd puppies are actually born black! They can also be born gray and white, as the coats will gradually change color as they grow older. By about eighteen to twenty-four months of age, a German Shepherd puppy should have its final coat color , and it will stay that way! However, many German Shepherds can be born black, and their coats may stay black. Some German Shepherds that are born black will never gain their color, and will remain with a black coat forever. However, this is incredibly rare, and it is said that only about 6. It may surprise you that German Shepherds can actually be born in three different colors. They are typically either born black, white or gray in color, and you will see the color change from the age of 8 weeks onwards, but it can take up to two years to see the final color. Black and tan German Shepherds are the most common, and they will gradually get more tan as they age, with the browner colors appearing around the face, tail, ears, and stomach as time passes. In addition, a German Shepherd that is born black can either grow up to be black all over, or they may fade to another color such as Sable, Gray, Black and Tan, Brown, Black and Silver, or other variations of the breed. Even if you have a puppy that has been black for more than 8 weeks, it is very unlikely that it will stay entirely black as it grows. Black German Shepherds are extremely rare, and most will turn more Sable colored or Tan as time progresses. Whilst German Shepherds can come in a few colors , their coats also vary in length and thickness. The most common German Shepherds will have very thick, long, fluffy hair, but some can be short-haired. The German Shepherd breed has two pigments in their fur called eumelanin and pheomelanin. How these pigments interact with other genes in the German Shepherd puppy determines how the coat will turn out! For example, the pigment called eumelanin is responsible for the color black. On the other hand, pheomelanin defaults to red, which can create Red Sable, or deep brown tones and pale gold colors. If you are hoping to find yourself a black German Shepherd, then you may have a tough job in doing so. A black German Shepherd is actually very rare, and is down to genetics and pigmentation, so even with a black parent, it is not guaranteed that the puppies would be black in color, or remain black in color as they grow. The most promising combination for a black German Shepherd puppy is if both parents of the puppies are black themselves. This will give you the greatest chance of achieving all black puppies. However, some black puppies can come from parents that are both black and tan, or if one parent is black and tan, and the other is black. It sometimes is just down to luck. That being said, if both parents have the solid black color recessive gene, meaning they are fully black all over, and not even slightly black and tan, then it is likely that the puppies will be born black, and will stay black as they grow older. As black German Shepherds are incredibly rare, some people are under the impression that they are a different breed altogether, but the black variant is a recognized version of the regular German Shepherd dog. Although they are the same breed, there can be some differences between the Black and Tan German Shepherd and the Black German Shepherd. For instance, a black German Shepherd can quite often be much larger than the regular German Shepherd. They may also have a much straighter back than a normal German Shepherd. In addition, black German Shepherds can sometimes have a thicker coat, especially at the neck and on the front and back legs. You may also notice that some black German Shepherds will have thicker fur at the ears and around the tail, which is why some people think that they are a different dog breed as they can sometimes look more like wolves than German Shepherds! Some black German Shepherds may also have much fluffier coats, or a stronger, more athletic build and erect, pointed ears, however it does depend on the dog itself. As previously mentioned, the black German Shepherd is a much more rare occurrence than the more common Black and Tan German Shepherd, and as such, they can be harder to come across and much more expensive than any other type of German Shepherd. However, you should exercise some caution when trying to purchase a black German Shepherd, as many breeders may advertise a black version of the breed, which may not exactly turn out to be. In addition, purchasing from a reputable breeder will ensure that the dog does not have any health issues or problems later in life which can also cost you thousands of dollars, too! To ensure that you get a good quality dog, you should always find out the parentage of the puppy. This means either asking for documentation to prove the father of the puppies, and checking to see if the mother is with the puppies, and properly cared for. You can also research which breeders are trustworthy by looking at registered breeders on the American Kennel Club website. Some people are under the misconception that black German Shepherds are highly different to regular German Shepherds, and have different temperaments and health issues or ailments. However, this is not always the case. A great number of people seem to think that black German Shepherds are more aggressive than regular German Shepherds, and may be more prone to angry outbursts or aggressive behavior. German Shepherds are typically very active, intelligent, alert, friendly, loyal and loving animals, but there may always be some that show signs of aggression or misbehavior. This can be solved with a solid routine and expert or professional training. You have to keep in mind that because German Shepherds are so intelligent, they need a lot of mental stimulation and attention to keep their minds engaged and active. This means giving them a lot of exercise, time, energy and toys to keep them focused and interested. Otherwise, you may notice some aggression, anti-social, destructive or bad behavior as they tend to act out and become naughty if they are bored. Summary To summarize, German Shepherd puppies can be born black, but not all are. Some German Shepherd puppies can be born black, white or gray, and may stay this color for about 8 weeks. After this period has passed, the puppies will begin to show their true colors shall we say, and turn their final color. At this point, most German Shepherd puppies will become that common Black and Tan color that we know and love, however some will have different genes and pigments, which will result in a black German Shepherd, but this is very rare. In order to get a black German Shepherd, both parents would need to be black, or one would have to be black and the other black and tan. This is why all black German Shepherds are considered a rarity, and are therefore much more expensive than normal ones. However, the black variant of the German Shepherd is no different in temperament, health or breed. To see some German Shepherd puppies with their beautiful black colors, check out this video! Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. Black and Tan This is the color most of us think of when we picture a German Shepherd dog. With a rich tan undercarriage and a black face and back, this color of GSD has been around since the very first was officially registered back in Germany at the end of the 19th century. Although Horand von Grafrath was a little darker than the modern black and tan GSD, the ancestry is evident. With their luxurious white coats, these pale dogs look more like Golden Retrievers with erect ears. Despite their popularity, like the white German Shepherd, the blue has been a cause of controversion in the Shepherd world because recessive dilution gene comes with inbreeding practices and health issues. Blue German Shepherds may appear gray or even silver and are sometimes mistaken for a Blue Belgian Malinois. Isabella This unusual coat color variation is another washout as far the AKC is concerned, which is a shame given how striking it is. It originates from genetically combining liver and blue dilution genes. Like the liver and blue German Shepherd dogs, Isabella GSDs often have unusual eye coloring and different colored noses. Liver German Shepherds will usually have a brown nose. Blue German Shepherds have a blue nose. There is no evidence that the Isabella coloration makes the dog more susceptible to health issues. However, Isabella is a recessive trait. Selecting for recessive traits always limits the gene pool and makes dogs more susceptible to genetic conditions. Grey Not to be confused with the silver, black, or blue German Shepherds, the gray variety look more wolf-like with their dark coats. Some breeders specialize in producing dogs of this unusual color. Silver Similar to the gray German Shepherd, silver is nevertheless recognized as a distinct color. Often grouped together, however, the gray and silver colors are produced by the same genes. Finding a breeder that specializes in silver German Shepherds is a lot easier than finding one that focuses on the grey, so this might be your best bet if you want a more exotic-looking companion. Silver is an uncommon color for GSDs, possibly because it is a recessive gene. Similar to the dilution gene, this gene influences black pigment. While you also get silver sable German Shepherds, the patterned coats mean they are categorized as sable rather than silver. However, silver German Shepherds are often seen in military work or the police force. The red color is the result of the color gene pheomelanin. It can have any shade of red, ranging from strawberry blonde to a deep mahogany red. Alongside black and tan, the black and red combination is preferred over others by German Shepherd breeders. As black and red are both produced by dominant genes, this color combination is easier to breed for, and many breeders focus on producing purebred dogs with deep red coloring. Sable A classic color for the German Shepherd, a sable comes in a variety of colors but each hair sports a black tip. Sable GSDs can be black, gray, red, silver, or tan and are also known as agouti. Agouti is a type of coloring also present in other dogs, like the Agouti Husky. In this coloring each hair has several bands of brown and black, leading to a typical wolf-like coloration. Some founding members of the German Shepherd breed believed this should be the only color present in German Shepherds. Black sables are born as all-black pups and tri-colored sables are born as black and tan puppies. As the puppy ages, their coloring changes. Some GSDs may take as long as three years to develop their final sable coloration. As every sable GSD is different, with the color and pattern both varying, it makes for an eye-catching and unique dog. Sable is a dominant color that is easy to breed for. If you breed a Sable German Shepherd to any other color, you will likely get sable puppies. Black and Silver Much like the black and tan GSD, a black and silver German Shepherd usually has a silver saddle across its back, although the pattern and hue both vary from dog to dog. Like the silver GSD, the black and silver coloration occurs only when the recessive intensity suppression gene is present. This color is not common in the AKC show ring and can mostly be found in working dog lines. Because these dogs are not visible in the dark, it is highly advisable to only walk them on a light-up dog collar in the evenings and at night. Bicolor Bicolor German Shepherds appear almost completely black and, to fit the breed standard, must have black heads, back, legs and tail. Even if their paws are brown, the heels need to be black by the color standard definition. However, the AKC accepts bicolor as a recessive color in the breed. Though technically allowed in the show ring, these dogs are mostly found in working lines. Black and Cream The last official color on our list, the black and cream GSD remains true to its origins as a lighter version of the common red and tan coloring. There is some controversy surrounding the black and cream variation. Most AKC breeders do not want them to participate in the show ring. They strive to breed darker dogs that do not show the light cream coloring. The color does little to change their character, however, and black and cream GSDs excel obedience, nosework, rally and agility and are as loyal and brave as their black and tan cousins. Her DNA proved them wrong, although the Panda coloration remains unrecognized by some kennel clubs and breeders. The Panda GDS is created by a rare genetic mutation. The genes responsible for an all-white body and the patchy white are two different ones. This does not stop them from being popular however! There is a large demand for Panda-colored German Shepherds. Unfortunately, this inflates the price and leads breeders to focus on the color mutation rather than genetic health, so be sure to only source a puppy from a reputable breeder. Albino An albino German Shepherd is incredibly rare. An albino of any species or breed lacks any pigmentation, including of the skin, hair, and eyes as well as the blood vessels, resulting in a pinkish tinge. You can distinguish an albino German Shepherd from a white one by checking his eyes and nose. A White GDS will have some pigmentation resulting in brown eyes, whereas albinos always have red or pink eyes. An Albino GSD, should one exist, may experience other health problems associated with the condition. They may, for example, be photosensitive, requiring protection from direct sunlight. What is the Rarest Color of the German Shepherd? The rarest color of German Shepherd is the isabella due to the recessive combination of liver and blue. You will have to search for a long time to get such a puppy — and his price will likely be high as well! What is the Best Color for a German Shepherd? The best color for a German Shepherd in the show ring is black and tan, followed by sable. If you are not planning on showing your dog through the AKC, you can pick any color you like. This is not based on any actual working abilities though and more of a myth that has been passed on through generations. What is the Original Color of a German Shepherd? As German Shepherd dogs were bred as working dogs, the original breeders focused on temperature rather than appearance. The original color of working German Shepherds was sable. The most traditional color in the show ring is black and tan. While you should pick the coloring you like the most, make sure to not just choose your dog based on his looks. German Shepherds are prone to developing back and hip issues. Before buying a puppy for his color, make sure that his breeder selects for health first and color second! Otherwise you might end up with a puppy with great color but poor health … which is never a good thing. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. 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Dogs in our program are in foster homes private homes of volunteers and treated like one of our own. We do NOT have a shelter. The advantages of having our rescued GSDs in private homes is that we interact with them frequently and have insight into the personalities and likes and dislikes. Our volunteers give freely of their time, money, and affection to save these animals. Please keep in mind that they are ALL volunteers - no one gets paid, and we all have full-time jobs, families, and lives too. Please be patient if we cannot answer you immediately - we do strive to respond within hours to all inquiries. German Shepherds GSDs are loving and loyal companions, who provide comfort and security to those privileged enough to share their friendship and love. All of our rescued GSDs are spayed or neutered, are current on vaccinations, and are tested for heartworms, lyme disease, and ehrlichia. All of our animals are on heartworm preventative. Your assistance will allow us to keep saving these wonderful canine companions. We couldn't do it without you. Share A Story! German Shepherd Rescues In Texas A small commission may be earned on any purchases made via links on this page. Read our full affiliate disclosure. The good news is that there are also a lot of breed-specific rescues to help German Shepherds in this state. They primarily rescue from rural shelters and places that do not have a lot of adoptions. This rescue is entirely volunteer-run. Dogs are usually housed in foster homes until they can be adopted. They have four shepherds of their own and hate the thought of any shepherds being mistreated, neglected, or euthanized in county shelters. They work full-time, but strive to save shepherds in their spare time. They believe that finding the perfect match for the dogs in their care is essential, so they are not in a rush to find homes for dogs, but rather take their time to make sure that the right dog ends up in the right home. German Shepherd Rescue of Texas is always seeking out fosters to help them rescue more dogs. They provide foster homes with everything they need to give superb care to the dogs in the rescue. Foster homes are given a crate, training support, and training strategies customized to each dog. If you would like to adopt a dog from German Shepherd Rescue of Texas, you can expect your application to be approved within about five business days. German Shepherd Rescue of Texas requires that dogs be allowed to live inside with the family, rather than being kept outside in a dog house. They save dogs from very difficult situations where they may have been neglected, abused, or euthanized in a shelter. They make the important distinction that rather than selling dogs, they adopt sensitive creatures into new homes where they will be valued as they deserve. This is a foster-based rescue, which means that dogs live in a foster home until they can be adopted. Foster homes are provided with food, medical care, and whatever else dogs may need. If you are interested in adopting but not ready to make a commitment yet, fostering through German Shepherd Rescue of Central Texas is a great solution. You can see beautiful high quality pictures of the dogs right on their home page so you will fall in love before you know it. German Shepherd Rescue of Central Texas strives to keep bonded pairs together, so you may be encouraged to adopt two dogs instead of just one if you are interested in one of the bonded dogs. Rescue and Adoption Details. Texas German Shepherd Of course, we know there are many great states to find a German Shepherd Puppy but in this post we are going to break down why we believe bringing your new puppy home from the great state of Texas is the perfect idea! Everything is Better in Texas We may be a little biased on this topic but this fine state offers so much more than great BBQ, lots of land, friendly neighbors, and warm weather. We happen to be a state that also focuses on pride of ownership! Here at Kaiser German Shepherds one of our biggest priorities is the importance of impeccable breeding standards which produce beautiful, healthy, intelligent German Shepherd puppies. We are located just one hour outside of Dallas and Fort Worth Texas, come check us out! They are cared for by their mother the Dam , and when old enough they are given ample opportunity to run around our many acres here at Kaiser. We are fortunate enough to own plenty of land for this very active breed, which we used to build our state of the art kennel. How lucky are we to live in Texas where we can provide our puppies with the space for their little bodies to grow and be free! We have been working with, training, and breeding German Shepherds for years. If your family is looking for a dog with plenty of energy, smart enough to learn commands, and is fiercely loyal, than look no further! We breed our Puppies near Dallas Texas A key component during the process of finding the right breeder is finding a trustworthy breeder that lives nearby… and if you live around the Dallas, Texas area you are in luck! We have worked with plenty of families from nearby states; we also provide the opportunity to have your new puppy shipped to your location. If you would like to learn more about this service or information about our breeding program please feel free to contact us! Kaiser German Shepherd. Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Dallas—Fort Worth location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Dog Training Elite Dallas—Fort Worth recommends starting dog training as early as possible, soon after a puppy is ready to leave its mother. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands, and smart German Shepherd puppies do great with early training. A complete puppy training typically takes a few months. Adult dog training can take longer or shorter, depending on whether a dog needs to unlearn bad habits in addition to being trained. Working with a German Shepherd and the owner directly in the home allows dog trainers to create personalized training plans for individual dogs, as well as address any unique needs or issues. Once a dog has completed in-home training, they can take group classes for more in-depth training - Dog Training Elite Dallas—Fort Worth offers both puppy and adult dog group classes. Beginning training in the home also helps owners bond with their dogs so when the dog trainer leaves, no progress is lost. This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form after proper conditioning , when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter. Empowering Owners We empower owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times. Personalized We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis. Environment Specific We train wherever issues tend to arise i. Supportive We support owners in the off-hours when training is "not in session". Involved We work with all members of the household. Satisfaction Ratings Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors. Also, be consistent about rules - establish at the beginning, for example, whether or not your dog is allowed on the couch. An energetic dog with little to no exercise can become a destructive, disobedient dog. Training is a great way to give German Shepherds the mental and physical stimulation they need. Dog Training Elite Dallas—Fort Worth has developed training programs for puppies and adult dogs alike based on positive reinforcement. German Shepherd training with our in-home option is entirely possible. All Sizes. All Ages.

With over 40 years of experience, Shawn trains people to properly establish and maintain leadership roles with their canine companions. Shawn has trained with several acclaimed canine experts and refined The Dog Way training methods through experience and observation of dogs' natural interactions within their groups. Deciding you want to purchase a pug puppy is exciting. However, you want to make sure you find the right puppy for you. Make sure you seek out reputable breeders so your puppy does not come with any health problems. Visit the puppies in person and choose the one that suits your needs. Ask the breeder plenty of questions about the puppy's current health and pedigree. Before bringing your new friend home, make sure your house is puppy proofed. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Pug puppies come with a unique set of needs. Puppies in general require more care than an adult dog. Before embarking on your journey to find a pug puppy, consider whether you can accommodate one at the moment. Make sure you have time for a puppy. Puppies need extra feeding, as well socialization and training. If you have a very busy schedule, you may want to wait for things to settle down before getting a puppy. Pugs, as a pet, require some maintenance. The folds in their faces need regular cleaning, and they're also prone to a great deal of shedding. Make sure you can live with frequent grooming, and accept the fact your house will never quite be hair-free. Like all breeds, pugs are prone to certain health problems. While a good breeder is adept at breeding out such problems, there are certain problems that are hard to breed out. These are usually simply due to how a pug is built. Learn the risks associated with pugs and make sure you're prepared to deal with them down the road. All pugs, regardless of breeding, are prone to eye problems. Pug's distinctive, bulging eyes expose a large area of their corneas, which puts their eyes at risk of drying out or forming ulcers. You may have to deal with frequent vet visits to deal with eye issues. Pugs are very prone to overheating because their flattened faces makes it hard for them to breathe. This problem can be even worse in hot weather, and overheating can cause serious health issues for a pug. Behaviorally, pugs are a more social breed. They are more prone to separation anxiety issues than other breeds. If you're gone a lot, a pug may not be the right dog for you. When searching for a breeder, there are a few places to scratch off your list right away. Puppy mills and very obviously bad breeders should be avoided. You're more likely to get a pug with existing health problems, or the risk of developing health problems down the road. In general, do not trust a breeder who simply sells dogs online from any given buyer. A breeder who does not ask any questions is probably not a good breeder. Responsible breeders want to make sure their dogs go to good homes. Puppy mills sometimes sell puppies to pet stores, so avoid buying a pug from a pet store. Puppy mills may also sell pugs online. If you can simply look at a picture of a puppy and purchase it, this is probably a puppy mill. Start your search locally. If you're lucky, you will be able to find a breeder who lives nearby. Look for ads in the newspaper, online, at local pet stores and veterinary clinics, and at any local pet clubs. A breeder in your area is convenient, as you will not have to travel far to see the puppies. Just because someone is a local breeder, do not assume they are an ethical one. Make sure to visit any breeder in person and look at the puppies physically before purchasing one. Unfortunately, not all areas have pug breeders close by. In some cases, you may have to travel to meet and select a puppy. There are many places you can look online to locate the nearest pug breeder. The Pug Dog Club keeps a list of reputable breeders online. You can search for the closest breeder there. The American Kennel Club also has a database of dog breeders. You can search there by breed. Remember to have patience. Even if you find a good breeder relatively close to you, they may not have puppies available for a while. You may have to wait a few months before taking home your pug puppy. Call a few breeders during your search. Pay close attention to your interactions. Learn the signs of a good breeder. Only work with breeders who are responsible and care about their dogs. Their facilities should be clean and spacious. They will be flexible in scheduling a time for you to see the puppies. A solid breeder will usually only breed one type of dog, or only a few types of dogs. The breeder should be very knowledgeable of pugs. During your initial conversation, the breeder will want to go over some basic pug care information with you. Good breeders do not have anything to hide. Not only will the be willing to let you see the dog's pedigree and meet their parents, they will actually encourage this. When you select a breeder to meet up with, make sure to ask a variety of questions. You want to make sure their puppies are a good match for you and your home. You also want to make sure the breeder is responsible and that the puppies are in good health. Interacting with a dog's mother and father can give you a sense of your puppy's future temperament. Ask questions about the breeder's credentials. Ask how long they've been breeding pugs. A more experienced breeder is more likely to produce healthier puppies. Ask about the puppy's parents. Make sure the parents do not have any inheritable diseases. Ask if you can see the health certificates for the parents on request. You should also ask about what treatment the puppies have received. Have they been vaccinated or de-wormed? Have they been spayed or neutered yet? When you get a chance to interact with the puppies, look closely at the puppy's you like. Pugs are prone to certain abnormalities. You can detect a potential issue by examining the dog's eyes, as well as how it breathes and moves. Watery eyes, squinted eyes, or glazed over eyes are signs of poor health. Hold the puppy close to you to hear it breathe. Raspy, labored breathing is generally a bad sign. Watch the puppy moving and at rest. It's not uncommon for pugs to breathe through their mouths when running around. However, a resting puppy should be able to comfortably breathe through its nose. There should be no signs of limping or an uneven gain if the puppies are old enough to walk. If you notice a puppy walking funny, listen for a clicking noise from the hips. This indicates the dog may develop hip problems later in life. As you interact with the puppies, aim for one with a good temperament. You want a puppy that's not too shy, but also one that's not overly rambunctious. You want a puppy that allows you to pick it up without squirming. A very aggressive or very standoffish puppy can be a problem. Once you've selected two or three pugs you like, request one-on-one time with them. You want a puppy that is friendly away from its litter. A friendly puppy will wag its tail, allow you to pet it, and look at you when you talk. A good breeder will be as scrutinizing of you as you are of them. Breeders want to make sure their dogs go to good homes, so don't be put off if a breeder asks you a lot of questions. This is a good sign. The breeder wants to make sure you will take good care of the puppy. They will also want to know about your general lifestyle and how you plan to care for the dog. If this is your first pug, don't panic. A breeder is unlikely to reject you simply because you don't have specific experience with pugs. As long as you've done some research on the breed, the breeder will probably be willing to sell to you if you're responsible. A good breeder will always be willing to provide this information. After selecting the puppy you want, ask for its pedigree as well as a certificate of health. These papers should assure you the puppy is in good health, and that its family tree is relatively free of inheritable conditions. Puppies need frequent vet visits. You should have a certification on hand showing what vaccinations and other treatments your dog has already received. As you prepare to bring your puppy home, make sure you're ready. Your puppy should enter your home with all the supplies it needs to thrive ready. You will need the following: [7] X Research source A crate to transport your puppy home and for crate training later Bedding Collar, leash, and identification tag Toys Grooming supplies i. Before bringing your dog home, you will need to pug proof your house. Pugs are inquisitive animals and prone to getting into things. You want to make sure your pug cannot get into any dangerous substances or places. Make sure all electrical wires are covered or out of reach. Keep things like household cleaners and detergents out of reach. Place them in high kitchen cabinets. Prevent access to staircases, as young pugs can easily slip and fall on the stairs. A good breeder will present you with a contract prior to purchase. This outlines your basic responsibilities and the breeder's return policy. Read the contract carefully before signing. If there's anything you don't understand, ask the breeder. You want the option of returning a dog in the event it has a health problem you cannot afford to treat. Once the contract is signed and your home is ready, you can bring your new friend home. You can now enjoy your pug puppy, and begin the process of training and caring for your new lifelong friend. You can also attach the leash to the front and train your Pug how to walk properly on a lead from a very young age. With the Health Harness which is already puppy proofed against chewing you don't have to worry about your puppy chewing or ingesting the plastic buckles found commonly in dog harnesses. You can be worry free knowing each of Frenchiestore Health Harness comes with premium materials such as metal buckles. Always look for durable chew toys for your Pug, they have very powerful jaws that will go through toys like water. We recommend getting the Vet Pet Box for a new puppy. Every product in the VetPet Box has been hand-selected by veterinarians for quality and safety. All you have to do is specify what breed of dog you have Pug is on small breed category then click "need more customization" there you can choose your pet is a puppy and chewing style we recommend choosing "Powerful Chewer" and thats it! You'll be able to choose what plan you want and you'll be covered for as long as you. Pug dogs can't rely on a thick coat of fur to keep them warm during the winter. Signs your Pug might be cold: shaking, shivering, seems uncomfortable or anxious. If your Pug is hunched over, or stiff with a tucked tail. If your Pug is exhibiting change in behavior and is more vocal. If on a walk your Pug is seeking a place to hide or reluctance to keep walking or tries to turn around to go back home. Pug puppies are usually very energetic though they also sleep a lot , so after an exhausting day of expending all that energy, a real dog bed, nice and comfy will be just what your Pug needs. To minimize back issues an orthopedic bed would be optimal for your dog's back. Car seat - the first experience your puppy will have is the car ride home. Puppy gates - You will need to section off an areas of your home that could pose a danger for your new Pug puppy such as the kitchen. Pugs are very curious by nature and they get into everything. In order to avoid your Pug pup from getting into the kitchen cabinets or the trash it would be helpful to put some boundaries and use baby gates. Not only is it helpful in minimizing dangers it is also beneficial for potty training your Pug puppy by not allowing full range of your home. Bathrooms - can be a very dangerous place for a Pug puppy. In order to avoid your puppy from going into the bathroom unsupervised you would have to make sure to close your bathroom door every single time. A trick that would be helpful is hanging a sign on your door, wall or above the sink reminding you to close the door when you leave the bathroom. Fireplaces - does your home have a fireplace? Make sure you block it off from your Pug pup. Grooming supplies - dog shampoo should be carefully picked for a Pug pup as they often have sensitive skin. Nail clipper and facial anti bacterial wipes for your Pugs' folds and tear stains. Puppy pee pads - if you are planning on house training with dog wee pads you should consider having them ahead of time prior to the puppy coming home. You should find a vet - preferably one that is knowledgeable in the Pug breed and you are comfortable with that lives close by. In case of an emergency you don't want to start looking for a vet and calling everyone, or traveling very far. You need to have your vet already picked and ready to be dedicated to your Pug. Pet insurance - Prior to bringing your Pug dog home is is a good idea to have pet insurance. In this video we'll cover all the puppy proofing tips, best ways to puppy proof your house or apartment, and tons of puppy safety tips. There are some great puppy hacks in this video too. Raising a puppy shouldn't be stressful, so get the best puppy training tips and grab the puppy checklist so you can be fully prepared for your new puppy's arrival. Pug puppies are known for chewing everything around the house, whatever they find they will chew or try to eat it. If puppy proofing your entire house seems like an insurmountable task, create a dog space. You dedicate an area of your house solely for your Pug, preferably one that you and or your family frequent. You can secure this area by using the puppy fence. This not only keeps your puppy in a safe and protected area, it also helps to not overwhelm them. You should go through your home and look for anything that could be hazardous to your new Pug puppy. Electrical cords, choking risks, shoes or anything of the sort should be cleared out. You also have to be conscious of any dangling cords that your Pug could chew, trip over or worse. As soon as you put all of these in place, you are all set and ready to bring the newest family member home. Bringing home your Pug puppy The most efficient way to raise a well-adjusted, well-mannered Pug is to expose them to everyday scenarios and experiences as soon as possible. The first experience your puppy will have is the car ride home. You should make sure the breeder will not feed your puppy right before the car ride home to avoid stomach upset or vomiting. As mentioned above having your Pug puppy secured in a car seat will be the safest option. This is because consistency goes a long way in training a well-behaved all rounded Pug dog. Now that you have gotten home, resist the urge to spoil and over indulge your Pug. You should start training your puppy early and refrain from excessive scolding, use positive reinforcements, and lots of praises. Potty training your Pug puppy takes patience the easiest way is to take your puppy outside every half hour or so and encourage them to go. Bringing them to the same area will help them quickly understand that this is their pee area. Always give them a treat as soon as they pee outside. Continue to do this, and then gradually drop the treats and use only praise. If you are training your Pug to go indoors on pee pads, just do the same as mentioned above. How long do Pug puppies sleep at night? Pug puppies can sleep anywhere from 12 to 18 hours per day, only waking up occasionally for an hour or so every few hours of rest. It is best to develop a nighttime routine. If you wake up your puppy to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night, you will develop this habit with your puppy. In adulthood your Pug might wake you up in the middle of the night and you want to avoid developing this habit if possible. It is best to establish a night time house training routine. Take your Pug puppy to the bathroom right before bedtime and immediately upon waking up. Puppy proof the outside of your home and garage Antifreeze taste sweet to your dog however can be lethal. Remove any rat poison or traps around your home. Fence off areas where there could be toxic plants such as wild mushrooms or any water sources like pools. Pugs are not good swimmers and most will sink. Make sure your backyard is safe and secure without any way for your Pug to get out of the fenced area. If needed fix loose fencing or holes prior to your Pug's arrival. Always watch your Pug puppy when going outside since puppies get bored easily. Once they are bored they will get destructive and exhibit bad behaviors such as digging holes throughout your backyard or chew patio furniture etc. Always keep your trash secure, and away from your Pug. Pugs are prone to obesity, watch their weight, give them lots of exercise. Regular check ups with the vet will help them stay healthy. Keep them under supervision at all times, and spend time with them especially in those first few weeks. Congratulations on getting a new family member, you now know how to house proof for a new Pug puppy. You have all of the information you need here to ensure your canine journey goes as smoothly as possible. We care about you and your Pug. Is it OK if it sleeps in my room? What is something to look out for if we need to train it in a certain way? Also, Boxers are rambunctious little puppies so how can we get their mind on a different track. Leave a comment. Caring for your Pug Pugs can be highly entertaining dogs due to their big personalities and clownish nature. They generally do well in family environments where they have lots of company all of the time as they love to spend time with everybody. Pugs and barking As with any dog, your Pug is likely to make noise in one form or another. How much your dog barks will be down to them as an individual. Training and socialisation When it comes to training Pugs, although they are a clever breed they can also be very strong willed. Training needs to be ongoing and firm but fair. You can start positive, reward-based training from day one, whether you get your Pug old or young. Exercise Pugs can be prone to gaining weight that can make breathing problems worse, so it is important to keep them active and avoid any weight gain. Your Pug will need up to an hour of exercise a day. This should include shorter walks, with extra playtime and lots of brain-stimulating activities. Several shorter walks throughout the day can help to stop them from becoming too tired or overheated, which is a great way to keep them active throughout the day. Keep a close eye on your Pug as they can tire easily due to their difficulties getting enough oxygen. As soon as you start to notice them struggling to breathe, stop and make sure they get enough of a rest. You will also need to avoid exercising them in the heat as this can cause even more problems since they can be at higher risk of heatstroke. Grooming Even though their coats are short, Pugs can still shed loads. Luckily, they tend to love being groomed as it means a lot of attention all on them. Pay close attention to the folds in their skin, as these are the perfect breeding ground for bacterial and fungal infections if left damp. You can teach your Pug from an early age to love tooth brushing and nail clipping so you can keep those pearly whites and paws in great condition. Pugs and children Pugs adore company and really love people of all ages. They often get on well with children, especially if the Pug loves to play. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and play with dogs with care and kindness, to prevent any issues. Always supervise children and vulnerable people with your Pug and make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. Pugs and other pets Pugs are known for getting along well with other pets and dogs. Introductions still need to be done carefully, though, just in case. Good, kind training will also help them become well-rounded dogs that keep calm in new situations. Your vet or vet nurse will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. If you give your dog an occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily food allowance. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave a gap after eating and before exercising. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. These breeders must do extra health tests and meet higher standards for breeding. See our advice on what you need to know about flat faced pets and how to choose a healthier pedigree pet. Set-up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, some centres will vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around six months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will have already neutered the dogs they rehome where appropriate. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or if your dog outgrows them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catching any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. A group of Pugs is called a grumble! Pugs are an ancient breed, dating back to Ancient China where they were bred for Emperors. Pugs were bred to be companions, which is why they love people so much. Getting a Pug Do plenty of research before you get a Pug. Although they are loveable and friendly, they are sadly likely to get a lot of health issues more so than many other breeds. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a Pug. Breed-specific rescues specialising in Pugs are out there too. Good rescue centres should let you know of any existing health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will have been well socialised and have all necessary health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. Not sure if a Pug is the right pet for you? You want a pug, maybe a bonded-pair? You hopefully have done some research and think this is the breed for you. Please read on if you are not familiar with the breed. Let me start by saying that no two pugs are alike. Gross Generalizations that tend to be true: Blacks tend to be busier and have more attitude than fawns. Females tend to be pushier and more in your face than males. Males tend to be more laid back and easy going than females. There are exceptions to all of the above. So you will be rightfully horrified when you find that your puppy is a whirling dervish of energy who snuggles for 30 seconds and then is off again to race around the house, leaving destruction in his or her path. Pug puppies are no different from any other puppy. Expect nipping, chewing, gnawing, jumping, pulling on your trouser legs, shoe destroying, and general mayhem. NO puppy is a couch potato. They are all lunatics. Some more than others. Pugs from reputable breeders are more likely to have the pug temperament eventually, but even they will be devils as a puppy. One of the best ways to wear a puppy out or any busy dog is to engage them in activities that make them work and think. Pugs are and were bred to be companion animals. They need people. And pug puppies will need you to engage with them. They will demand it as will most adults. Just like children, puppy brains need stimulation and activity to develop. A puppy left crated for eight to ten hours will be absolutely manic by the time you get home and will need you to devote the remainder of the evening to them. House Training: Pugs will not be house trained in a month or two months or even six months. You may end up with a pug that asks for food as opposed to letting you know they want to go out. Pugs generally will not just go outside and do their business while you sit nice and warm in the kitchen and have a coffee. Most will not excrete outside without your company and encouragement. Many will also try to fake you out by pretending to pee. You bet, but these quirks are part of the charm of the breed. When was the last time you had to hold your bowels or bladder for eight to ten hours at a stretch? Punishing a pug for an accident is not an effective method of house training. There are many good books and articles on house training. Be prepared that if you have a pug puppy, you may well have to get up at night — two, three or four times a night — until they are six months or older. Pug Quirks: Pugs have a variety of quirks that drive some people nuts. They are nosey, inquisitive, and often right under foot. They will eat sticks, rocks, coins, screws, plastic caps off of bottles. You name it, they will eat it. It is your job to pug proof your home to avoid tragedy. Many have tissue and toilet paper addictions that they have all their lives. I have known several to think eating used tissue is a true delight and will go out of their way to access it. I never trust any pug around any food source, rubbish bin or even cabinets that they can open. If they can get onto your dining room or kitchen table, they will. And they will consume whatever is up there. Pugs are often quite tactile. Many are obsessive lickers — of themselves, you, the other dogs or cats, the kids, the carpet, your pillow. Many use their paws more like hands than paws. Pugs can be quite vocal and can be barkers, howlers, moaners and grumblers. I have known of many that were vocal in the extreme and would carry on protracted conversations with their owners. And some snore very, very loudly. Pugs are tough little dogs that have no clue how small they are. Most will not initiate a fight, but many will vigorously defend themselves or others if a fight starts. Most are hopelessly outclassed in the fighting department and will get seriously hurt. As a deeply food driven breed, you may have issues with food aggression and resource guarding. Make sure that you do research on working with these issues. Many pugs are not fans of inclement weather and will resist excreting outside in the cold, rain or wind. Some are fine, but in my experience, many will refuse or try to refuse to excrete outdoors. Some will simply use your floors, some will hold their bowels and bladder for frighteningly long periods of time too. Few pugs will show any remorse or other indication that they know they did wrong by excreting in the house. Pugs any dog, in my opinion should not be off lead in any environment where they can get away from you and end up on the road or lost. They can be remarkably fast and it only takes a second for a dog to be hit by a car. They have a remarkable capacity for bodily excretions. Pugs are Smart: Pugs are often tagged as dumb dogs. In fact, most are smart enough and stubborn enough to figure out how to get their way or how to outlast you. Since they are often very food driven, treats are very effective in training pugs. And they are dogs. They need to do dog things — go to parks, meet other dogs, play and have fun. Pugs are very adept at figuring out what you will and will not tolerate and will test the limits. There are pugs that excel at agility, and at obedience. It really is important to remember that they need the right amount of food for the activity level of the dog. As mentioned earlier, they can be wildly busy puppies and many first time pug owners get very discouraged. They may slow down with time and age, but you need to be sure that your pug, regardless of energy level, gets exercise and mental stimulation. Pug Health: This, more than any other issue, is often the undoing of a pug owner. Like all pure bred dogs, pugs have some health issues that may crop up and they are often expensive health issues. You do put yourself at risk for expensive health issues with pugs from pet shops, internet ads and the newspaper. Most reputable breeders will have genetic testing going back generations. Pugs are prone to issues specific to brachycephalic flat faced breeds breathing, eyes, folds of skin and are prone to issues of the toy breeds generally luxating patella, dental problems, trachea. Pugs have a very high rate of allergies — food being a big one — grains in particular. Pugs need a high quality diet. Shop brought kibble may not cut it and you can avoid a host of future problems if you start off feeding your pug a good diet, whether raw or a premium kibble. Pugs have a high rate of vaccine reactions. Be watchful and conservative in your vaccination protocol. Think seriously about insurance for your pug. It can be a life saver, literally. It can happen. An eye injury in a pug can go from simple scratch to serious ulcer in 24 hours and need a corneal graft that will run you into some serious cash. I love pugs, but they are, to my mind, a high maintenance breed. They need and want a lot of attention. They moult like maniacs. They can be bossy, stubborn, and full of naughtiness. They require a fair bit of watching and managing in terms of safety, health and general training. They can and will get themselves into trouble — by dashing into the road if off the lead to get a piece of squashed sandwich, chewing on your power cords, opening up your cupboards which you thought were safe and 7. They tend to need some pretty regular cleaning of nose folds, eye areas and are notoriously fussy about having their nails trimmed. You can see some real dramatic behaviour around nail clipping in particular. They do a thing called Reverse Sneezing. Read up about it and save yourself a trip to the emergency vet. All pugs do it. To me, they are worth the effort, expense and time that they require. They are clowns and comics and will provide hours of laughter and entertainment. But as a pug owner, you MUST be aware of the care involved in this breed. We are grateful to one of our supporters for sending us this article for publication. Pugs Are Royalty In ancient times, pugs were bred as companions for Chinese emperors. Later, they lived with ruling families in the Netherlands. Get a Lint Roller Pugs shed… a lot! Some pugs even come with double coats, meaning they have both an undercoat and topcoat of fur. Make sure you stock up on lint rollers, and invest in a good vacuum cleaner. See here to learn how to deal with a shedding pug. On your lap, in your bed, even at your feet while you use the bathroom. Get used to never being alone again, and forget about your personal space. Feeling Hot Hot Hot Like all flat-faced breeds, pugs sometimes have breathing issues. They do best in moderate temperatures that are neither too hot nor too cold. Here are some tips on how to help them stay cool. Their big eyes can lead to corneal ulcers or dry eye, their smushed face can lead to breathing issues, and their wrinkles must be cleaned. Trips to the vet for general check-ups are a must, along with regular grooming nail trims, wrinkle wipes, and ear cleanings. They live to eat, and are prone to obesity. Regular exercise and a healthy diet are super important, as is watching their weight. Always use positive reinforcement when training them, but definitely expect some push back. Learn to Love the Pug Symphony Pugs wheeze, snort, sneeze, and snore. These creatures will keep you laughing, and put a smile on your face every single day. They give unconditional love, and make great family dogs. Their size, temperament, and great personalities make them the perfect pet. Photo by Pets by Petra Do you have a pug? If so, what makes them great? The Ultimate Guide to Pets Share Sure, pugs are adorable, but they also have some unique characteristics. Here are some things to consider before you adopt one. When I first saw Rosie, I knew we were soul mates. She came bounding into the kitchen, tongue lolling and eyes bulging, and gave me a big wet pug kiss on my nose. I was hooked. Fast forward two days and I learned what a lot of new pug owners discover quickly: she never leaves my side. A few months later, I learned the breed has some other unique traits. So, before you decide to go pug wild here are 10 things you should know. They will follow you around everywhere. If you're someone who would get irritated by lap dog behaviour, think twice about getting a pug. Whether I'm taking a quick jaunt to the kitchen or a trip to the bathroom, Rosie is right by my side, curly tail wagging. And then when I sit down, she wants to be right up on my lap. They're prone to health problems. Pugs aren't health nightmares but "they can have a variety of health issues, which, if you're not familiar with, can lead to devastating results," says Blanche Axton, president of the board at Pugalug Pug Rescue in Toronto. Things to be watch for include: - eye scratches - a higher-than-normal tendency to react to vaccines - eye- and nose-fold care - breathing problems In short, pugs can be high-maintenance canines. Get familiar with their health issues and research their breeder before you adopt Fido. They need a lot of attention. Any dog needs your time and attention to be a happy pet, but many pugs require more face time than other dogs. They're not couch potatoes mostly. While they do enjoy naps, pugs thrive on activity, including regular playtime and walks. So if you work hour days, find a dog walker because a pug can't hold its small bladder for that long. They shed—a lot. Need proof? Come to my home and take a look at the carpet, couch, chairs, kitchen, clothes and bed…. They can be intrusive. Pugs are what I like to call "space invaders. They're smart. Just because they haven't been bred to be work dogs, doesn't mean pugs are stupid. Pugs can be trained just as easily as other dogs, including agility, scent detection, tracking and working with seniors. Axton recounts that she had a pug named Pete who, "ended up being a palliative dog, working with people who were at the end stages of their life. They can take time to house train. Pugs aren't fond of inclement weather, so you may have to deal with a dog that refuses to go to the bathroom during a snowstorm. Take the time to reinforce outdoor pottying, no matter how much they resist going outside Sticking to a schedule will help your pug learn what he or she should be doing. Remember, pugs respond to positive reinforcement, not punishment. Pugs are motivated by food, so give yours a treat and lots of praise when he or she goes potty outside. They will eat almost anything. I've seen Rosie eat sticks, gum, doughnuts, pasta noodles and even lollipops wrapper included. Pugs are food driven and they won't give up their treat easily if you're trying to get them to drop it. To avoid a trip to the vet, make sure not to leave food lying around. They're total love bugs. Once you get a pug, he or she will be your bestie for life. They love belly rubs, head scratches, giving kisses and snuggling with their human, and they will gaze at you as if you're the best person in the world. Give them the love they deserve and they will love you forever. I've had Rosie for two and a half years and despite her quirks, I don't regret having her in my life for a second. You could say she has me wrapped around her little paw. If you're looking to adopt or buy any dog, research the breed to avoid heartaches and headaches. Head over to the Pug Club of Canada, recommends Axton. Come prepared with questions, such as what the dog's temperament is like, what kind of health testing they've done and if they've seen any health problems with the parents. Or if your cat is anxious? Our pet experts reveal what your pet's feeling. Eyes checked by an eye specialist for Entropion, Distichiasis double eyelashes and Pigmentary Keratitis Heart testing for heart murmurs Whilst health testing is ideal, tests need to be breed appropriate and have a tangible outcome. May-Hegglin Anomaly was found in only one dog, a Pug or Pug cross. Dogs in the susceptible group may never develop the condition. A flowchart for diagnosis was developed as part of research that led to the susceptibility test. What is a well-bred Pug like? Contrary to belief, when a Pug breathing can be heard, this does not always indicate health issues. Some of her Pugs have competed in Obedience. I think Pugs are only limited by what their owners are willing to do with them. Health is not something considered highly in unregulated breeding. The only way for these colours to be there is through cross breeding at some point. Along with the colours will come genetics for diseases not previously found in Pugs. Follow the Dogs Australia three Rs ; Right time — Is it the right time now to get a puppy for your family? Right breed — Have you researched all you need to know about your breed from its natural instincts to grooming? Right Breeder — Is your breeder responsible, operating under a code of ethics, with regulations and health checks? From getting a dog to keeping them happy we will have you covered at dogsaustralia. It champions the highest standard of animal welfare through education and fostering dog-loving communities. Keep Updated Want to stay across the latest news? Sign up here and we will add you to our mailing list.

He is a medium to large puppy currently about 25 lbs, expected to be over 60 lbs when fully grown. Good with cats, other dogs, and strangers, he will fit into any family. Nick loves to be with his people, laying at their feet. He is very polite, rarely jumping on the furniture and will not chase the cat. His favorite activities include getting tummy and ear rubs, playing ball, eating, and learning to fetch. He has already learned some commands, come being his strongest. His brain has not quite caught up with his body yet, and he flops his feet when he walks, so adorable! Vaccinated, microchipped, neutered, does well on a leash, working on crate and potty training, sleeps most of the night, and can be left alone for up to 3 hours. At Path of Hope Rescue we strive to decrease the euthanasia rate of high-risk dogs in the southern United States by transporting pregnant dogs and puppies to the Pacific Northwest to find adoptive homes. We will choose the most suitable home for each dog, not the first application received. If the dog you are applying for is adopted, we have hella good matchmakers that will help you find your perfect new four-legged family member. Since the dogs that come up the Path of Hope are rescues, not much is known about them. Therefore breed and adult sizes are our best guesses and we cannot guarantee this information is accurate. Considering Nick Jonas for adoption? Email Just look at Sampson — who in was reported to maybe be the fattest lab in Australia. At pounds, he was heavier than the average human male, and suffered from high blood pressure according to vets, which makes it hard for him to go for walks. Previously, Brian was a reporter at Vox and at National Journal. We need to talk about Labrador retriever obesity, the world's cuddliest epidemic. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, around 54 percent of all dogs in the US are overweight or obese. But Labs top the scales. According to a survey of veterinarians, around 60 percent of Labs they see are obese. While some pet owners may argue there's just "more to love," these overweight dogs suffer health consequences. Heavy dogs have a lower life expectancy and higher risks for heart disease, bone problems, and cancer. All dogs love food. But it seems Labs love food more than most, and it may be linked to their genes. Labs' gluttony may be linked to a genetic mutation "Plodding along with its giant belly this obese dog is more than twice its ideal bodyweight. It is amazing. One of them is a gene that codes for a chemical called POMC proopiomelanocortin. Changes in this part of the brain affect individuals in subtle, powerful ways. It could be what's prompting the dogs to be extra motivated to scavenge for food. Scientists know that humans who have trouble producing POMC also tend to have weight issues starting very early in life. And when the genes for POMC are knocked out in mice, they become obese. So the genes for POMC in Labradors were a natural place for Raffan and her colleagues to look for a biological explanation for the dogs' prevalent obesity. They also searched for a few other known genetic links to appetite, but POMC quickly became the prime candidate. They recruited a group of labs in the UK. Some were pets; others were service dogs. Raffan and her colleagues found that a mutation in the POMC gene — specifically a deletion of 14 base pairs — was highly significantly associated with heavier dogs. The P-value was. Usually smaller than. The dogs with mutation also scored higher on tests of their motivation to eat food. How could you not feed this face? And dogs with multiple copies of the mutation were even more likely to be fat. It's an almost linear response. It's quite striking. Flat-coated retrievers with the trait were also huskier, and were similarly motivated to eat with gleeful abandon. Just one mutation can influence how much a dog scavenges for food, for instance. Lab owners concur with the Labs' strong scavenging instinct. Answers included:. Does your puppy seem to eat everything — grass, dirt, sticks, rocks? Original Post The original content for this post is below, followed by a major addition we made to update new research and learnings we have come across to help dog owners address this issue. A common complaint among those living with puppies is that they eat everything they can when outside. While some dogs can easily get sick from some of these things, others seem to be able to eat just about anything and seem just fine. However, some of this behavior with puppies and sometimes older dogs too is natural and not something to get too worried about. As with other areas of our lives, we have to learn to pick our battles. I see some clients who panic at their puppies chewing on a stick or a pine cone. I never made a big deal about it when Romeo was a puppy, but I did watch him carefully. As with anything, items put in mouths can become choking hazards. Sticks can get lodged in throats. But so can bones and toys. If some people knew how many sticks Romeo ate when he was a puppy and adolescent, they would be appalled! Yep, I did let him chew on sticks. Was it ideal? No, of course not, but he had a great desire to chew and on my income, I can only afford so many bully sticks! Many puppies eat grass and dirt. Is it harmful to them? In most cases, no. But you do need to think about where this grass and dirt is coming from. We do not use any pesticides on our property and Romeo eats grass pretty much every day on our walks. He throws up maybe once a year. Most puppies will outgrow their desire to eat everything. For others, the behavior will lessen but perhaps not go away entirely. However, if we make too big a deal out of it, then it can become a more obsessive behavior that turns into a more serious problem. Decide whether it really needs to be a battle between you and your puppy or if you can let some of it go. Updated Content The content below includes a significant addition to the original post above. Since we get a lot of traffic and comments to this post, we wanted to update it with research coupled with many things we have learned about dog health, and provide a roadmap for helping dog owners find and treat the root causes for why their dog may be engaging in this activity. In medical terminology, the two broad areas we want to consider for issues related to this article are: PICA, which is the persistent craving and compulsive eating of nonfood substances; Coprophagia, which is the eating and ingesting of feces. Coprophagia may actually be less of an issue than PICA, which we will explain later. We will start by saying that this may not be an easy issue to solve for many dog owners. As we recommend in our summary, it can take persistent trial and error by the dog owner to start, followed by working with a dog health care practitioner if the issue is still not resolved. It is not something relatively simple like your dog limping on a back leg, which is generally confined to an issues in the foot, leg or back. Dog Log If your dog engages on a persistent basis the behavior associated with PICA and coprophagia, then you will want to start a dog log to so you can identify where it is occurring, when it is occurring and what else is going on around the dog when it is happening. A dog log is critically important because you can record details that you would normally forget. Writing down or typing in the details will also help you become more aware of circumstances that might cause them so that you will be more proactive about keeping them from happening. The dog log will also help you, through trial and error, to see if and how the problem changes as you do things to help stop it. We keep our own health log for our dogs that varies in how often we post to it. For things like vet visits, tests performed, changes in diet, physical issues that might come up like limps, skin scratches or knicks, etc , we record. We might get more frequent and specific if there is a specific health issue we are trying to fix. But if not, then we keep it general and high level. Even general or high level helps us when we go to the vet for an annual checkup. This information is readily available for us to review with our vet. But for an issue like PICA, you will want to be very detailed. We keep ours in Google Docs because we can share it amongst the family members to maintain it and it works across mobile devices as well as notebooks and PC. The convenience of being able to use any device to add to it and that everyone can use at anytime makes it a no-brainer. We have a template dog log we created specifically around documenting the circumstances around PICA, here. You can save that to your own google account or download it for use in other applications, or you can print it out and use it that way. You can download it at the end of this article. After you have a dog log in place, let's give you a framework to think about possibly solving this issue for your dog. As a result, we need a framework to help solve this issue. Ed adapted this framework to fix his own chronic health issues. It is still relatively new but being used in human health by more progressive health care practitioners. It is something you can use not just for your dog but your own health and the health of your family members. We are using it to help identify any health issues with our own dogs and to help keep them healthy. It is a very powerful and useful framework. All health issues can manifest as a result of any one of these 5 areas: Consummables: what we eat is being recognized as the biggest effect on our health, and health conditions and diseases mostly come as a result of the consummables we put into our bodies. Environmental: the chemicals we breathe or put on our bodies through cosmetics, and the electromagnetic radiation we get exposed to through airplane travel, WIFI, mobile phone signals, microwaves for cooking, bluetooth, IoT devices, etc. Pathogens: any virus or bacteria that takes up residence in our bodies. It can include beneficial bacteria that overgrows to levels where it is no longer beneficial. The brain is its own area because effects from the previous three areas can affect the brain and diminish its function, and even if issues are fixed in the other three areas, the brain can remain in a compromised state. This area would also include psychological issues, which as we are learning in humans, is enormously affected by what goes on in the above three areas. The last area is physiology. Physical imperfections, like a defective heart valve, just plain wear and tear on the joints or colds, flues, or other seasonal sicknesses. Health issues that can be readily seen or identified are lumped into this category. And that is it. You can classify any condition or disease or health issue that manifests from any one of these five areas. It is not any more complicated than that. Next let's discuss the colored boxes, working from the bottom, up. Before that is a diagnosed disease or condition. And, before that is the pathology, or underlying mechanisms causing the disease or condition. This box is where testing is done, if possible, that would then lead to a disease or condition diagnosis. And before that is epigenetic factors that cause the pathology. Epigenetics is our lifestyle, what we do, how we live, what we put in, on and to which we subject our bodies. And finally, before that is genetic factors that predispose one to a specific pathology. In a nutshell, all you are doing is working backwards from what is seen or felt till you get to the root cause of the health issue or symptom so that you know how to properly treat it. Sounds easy and logical, but western medicine is not taught this way. In our experience, with all the human and veterinary doctors we have seen over the years, it does not go beyond pathology to treating health. Even alternative pet medical providers do not use this approach. They will throw supplements, prescription drugs, procedures or operations to treat the issues and symptoms, but they rarely ask what is the root cause of these issues or symptoms. Without finding out the root cause in epigenetic or genetics, you may never fix the issue, and it keeps reoccurring or manifests elsewhere as other conditions or diseases. Many times health issues have nothing to do with genetics, but epigenetics. If you are a smoker, then you are inflicting epigenetic effects on your lungs that increase the chances for the cancer genes to take hold. But if you are predisposed to lung cancer already due to a certain genetic makeup, then you will have increased chances to lung cancer if you smoke. But some people smoke all their lives and live to old age without lung cancer. It is possible these people have a genetic makeup that decreases their chances for contracting lung cancer. Getting to the root cause of health issues through epigenetic and genetic factors will help you understand and treat the underlying causes. Do as much as you can to understand your genetics and how they are influenced by epigenetics, and if you adjust your lifestyle accordingly, then you may have a dramatically improved chance for better health. Now, with all that said, medical research and knowledge is far more advanced in humans than it is in dogs. The study of epigenetics and genetics in humans is still very early but has already shown huge benefits. But genetic testing it is still very early in pets. There are some general rules of thumb for each breed that most veterinary doctors can help you with, but it gets fuzzy after that if you want to do specific testing for your dog. As we learn more in working with our pet health practitioners and what we read and learn about in the field of pet health, we will do our best to report here on our website and via our subscriber emails. We will discuss what you can do on your own and when you may need the help from a pet health practitioner. Consummables This area is proving to be the biggest determining factor in health. And fortunately, it is an area that we may be able to do on our own without the need for a pet health practitioner. We recommend you use the following scale, which ranks dog food in order from healthiest to least or unhealthy. Move your dog up levels as far as you can to the top level to improve their diet to see if that solves the issue. This scale is from our resource guide, How to Make Healthy Food Choices For Your Dog , a page document that we researched, wrote and keep updated about how to make healthy food choices for your dog. We also include the text directly from the resource guide adding some explanations about the items in this scale. We will provide additional explanation about these food categories after this list. However, this list is only as good as the ingredients used. For example, if you purchase canned dog food with corn or soy in it, but purchase a dry dog food product with neither, then the dry dog food might be a better choice. Homemade raw is the best diet for our dogs, but only if you are careful to give them the appropriate percentages of ingredients and supplements so that they eat balanced meals. Dogs that are sick or with compromised health may do better with cooked food. Irradiation is a process whereby food is subjected to ionizing radiation to attack bacteria by breaking chemical bonds in molecules that are vital for cell growth. It does not result in radioactive food, but it does increase the free radicals and has shown to reduce nutritional values of food in the same way that cooking does. HPP is a process whereby food is subjected to intense pressure, which kills pathogens. You will have to contact manufacturers to find out if they use HPP. If they do not use HPP, you should ask what they use to control pathogens. By law, dog food manufacturers are required to produce product free of pathogens, unlike human food. They are doing something to control pathogens, so you should ask and find out to be sure you are comfortable with their process. Another process that at least one manufacturer we know of uses is electrolyzed water, a relatively new process in the U. The ingredients are soaked in this water to eliminate pathogens. But raw meats, especially chicken, may naturally contain the salmonella pathogen. And that is normally not a problem for humans because we cook our meat, and it is also normally not a problem for healthy dogs because they can digest salmonella. So if you purchase raw dog food with chicken, then it has to be processed somehow to remove the salmonella, which means that whatever process the company uses, the end product is not as healthy. You need to find out what that company is doing. It is not recommended to feed kibble with raw in the same meal because raw digests faster than kibble. The end result will be kibble in the digestive track that is fermenting and could be causing gas. Try feeding kibble in one meal and raw in another. Studies show that fats can oxidize quickly, even if there are preservatives in the product. It requires a great deal of energy to produce, which increases costs and carbon footprint. But as solar energy becomes more widespread, those costs will go down and the carbon footprint will be much less. While freeze dried weighs a lot less to transport, with reduced shipping costs, if you buy locally produced dog food from small retailers, there really is not much, if any savings on logistics costs. Sure, if you are shipping freeze dried halfway across the country, then there are some savings in logistics costs, but does it outweigh the energy cost to produce? Regardless, just try to buy from local or regional dog food companies to reduce the carbon footprint to get food to you. Dry kibble is the predominant way people feed their dogs and is among the worst choices. Digestibility The term digestibility coefficient refers to the percentage of a dog food that the dog absorbs into his or her body during the process of digestion. Dog food companies are not required to obtain or report digestibility and may not disclose it even if asked. But you should ask anyway and if you do feed dry dog foods, try to feed ones with higher digestibility ratings. We know that you want the best for your dog but that may get too cost prohibitive when you are talking raw, especially when you look for quality ingredients like at the level that we do for our dogs and in our dog food products that we sell. Just do the best you can. If all you can afford is dry kibble, then try to get the highest quality you can find, which we show you how in our resource guide. If you want to incorporate some raw, fresh foods into your kibble diet, then check out this post on The Food Stack For Dogs, which is what we do. Pay close attention to adding in some home made or very high quality plain goats-milk yogurt to help their digestive systems, which we talk about in what we do for our dogs. And don't just throw supplements at the problem. As we mentioned, that is what conventional medicine does and that rarely solves the problem. Dogs were made to extract all the nutrients they need from food. There is testing you can do to determine which foods your dog has an immune response. This might help, but it can be misleading because in humans, the health of the gut greatly influences our immune response to foods. If you have a healthy gut with good levels of beneficial bacteria, you can tolerate a lot more than if you do not. The same may be true for dogs. That is why it is better to first get your dog on the healthiest diet you can, then work on individual food testing through trial and error. What if higher quality food does not help? If moving your dog up the quality scale does not help, then you may need to look specifically at which food ingredients cause an immune or allergic response. In this case, you are actually getting more at potential epigenetic and genetic causes for your pet's issues, but you can still do this on your own by elimination and substitution. Our read of research tells us that vegetable-based protein does not work for dogs. Many dogs have issues with poultry chicken, turkey, duck , so try eliminating them. Or, dogs could have issues with beef, or all red meat, or maybe it is fish. You won't know until you start eliminating and substituting. It could be dairy. While we see little dairy in dog food products, if you feed yogurt for probiotic supplementation, that could be an issue. Try goats-milk yogurt, which is what we feed. Substitute with more nutrient dense vegetables. Fats If you are eliminating and substituting meats, then make sure you do the same for fats. Environmental At the same time that you are working on foods, make sure you try and address environmental toxins that may be poisoning your dog. Dogs, just like humans, are designed to filter out a certain level of toxins. But when exposure increases beyond the body's ability to detoxify, then accumulation occurs, which can lead to health diseases and conditions. It is possible that if your dog is suffering from food issues, they could go away if you address toxicity from the environment. The obvious environmental hazards come from a dog being lower to the ground than humans and spending a lot of time sniffing, licking and sitting on the ground. If you can, try to go greener in your choice of materials used in construction projects in your house. For cleaning, we stick mostly with vinegar and use Nature's Miracle , an enzymatic cleaner. Look at how much access they have to synthetic materials via collars, water and food bowls, toys and sleeping beds. Try to limit the use of plastic, especially with food. While limiting the use of synthetics is almost impossible for toys, if you can at least do it for their eating and drinking bowls, then that is another way to reduce exposure. We use these bowls because they have rubber on the bottom to reduce slippage and reduce noise. Unlikely you will completely eliminate exposure to environmental toxins, but reducing exposure to them will allow your dog to hopefully keep up with detoxification on their own. Look at radio frequency radiation emitted from all the wireless devices we have. They are proving to be a problem for some humans and so they could be problematic for our pets. While it may be difficult to remove WIFI and mobile phones from our lives, try to at least shut off at night anything that emits or receives an RF signal. That includes WIFI, mobile phones, bluetooth devices, and any other internet enabled devices like light switches or security cams. That is what we do. Electromagnetic radiation can also get emitted from the electrical in our homes. We use this Steterizer meter to test each plug and if the level is above 50, then we plugin in these Greenwave Dirty Electricity Filters. And we retest our plugs every six months with the Steterizer filter and readjust the placement of the Greenwave filters. Retesting is necessary because what we plug in to our wall outlets changes with the addition or subtraction of appliances and electronics, which can change the dynamics of the electricity running through the house. It may be a good idea while you are working on the consummables and reducing toxicity in your dogs environment to have your health care practitioner perform some standard tests to rule these out. Pathogens can take hold if there are nutritional issues going on from food or an immune system that is under strain from environmental toxins. Brain Physical Activity Is your dog getting enough physical activity? They may be bored and picking up other things and eating them gives them something to do. We have an infographic and article on the benefits of dog sports for non-competitors. Mental Activity Is your dog getting enough mental activity? Mental stimulation is just as important as physical. Dogs that get plenty of physical activity but little mental may still be bored and looking for something to do. You can teach your dog the brain workouts listed in this infographic on your own or find dog training classes. Training your dog gives them mental stimulation. Many people go through one or two dog training classes and that is it for the remainder of their dog's life. But many trainers like us offer a wide variety of classes and we have many clients who consistently take classes not just to keep up with training, but to always be teaching their dogs something new. Consider giving your dog more jobs to do, as we profile in this post. Use interactive toys to feed your dog meals and treats, which makes them work for their food, both physically and mentally. We have a wide variety of toys that we have collected over the years, but here is a list of some of our favorites that we use all the time: Kong toys. There are many different versions that you can fill with food or treats to keep your dog occupied. We user ours constantly, especially with our Snack Stuffer product. This toy makes it easy to put treats in and adjust how difficult you want to make it for your dog to remove the treats. When you purchase, try to stick with toys in the range of yellows, blues, violets, and grays, which we explain in this post. This is our own book that we wrote that will help you with an adolescent or energetic dog. Other mental issues Other issues causing PICA or Coprophagia can include: Separation anxiety; Competition for resources from other dogs present in the household; Not getting enough attention from you; Inconsistency in daily routines, which can cause stress. Physiology Issues related to physiology are usually the easiest for health practitioners to find because they are physical differences that can be directly seen, either through physical inspection or medical scanning technology. If your efforts in changing foods, limiting environmental toxins, checking for pathogens and working on the various brain related issues we talked about above are not working, then deeper medical testing may be required. Again, if medical tests reveal something, you need to dig deeper to figure out why. If your dog has thyroid problems, for example, this issue can be caused by food, environmental or pathogen issues. Don't just settle for medication. Medication might be good to temporarily help out, but don't rely on it permanently unless you know what is causing the thyroid problems and you have no other way to fix them other than medication. The only study we could find with regards to PICA is that it is associated with low hemoglobin Hb , hematocrit Hct , or plasma zinc Zn concentrations. If that is the case with your dog, supplementation in the short-term to get these values back in line might really help, but you have to ask why they are off to begin with. Look at epigenetic and genetic factors, if you can. Might Coprophagia be normal for dogs? Coprophagia may actually be related to a dog's need to help balance the bacteria in its gut. We have no evidence or studies behind this, but have read anecdotally that this may be the case. We regularly see our dogs eating feces from deer, bunnies or other animals. They do not do it everyday and do not seem to be obsessed about it, so we do not worry too much about it. But think about solving them in a structured way using a dog log to record your observations and the Functional Medicine Framework to help guide. You may still have a lot of work ahead of you but at least you have some tools and a plan to help walk you through. Dog Log Template Download We have embedded it below so you can see it, but you can click this link to open it in a new tab. Our goal is to positively impact the lives of as many dogs and their families as we can, in part through our extensive library of video, infographics and text articles. If you like our work, please consider supporting us through a donation! Received Oct 14; Accepted Apr .Abstract Background The aim of this study was to describe the longevity and causes of mortality in 39 12 males, 27 females pedigree adult neutered Labrador retrievers with a median age of 6. Body condition score was maintained between two and four on a 5-point scale by varying food allowances quarterly. The impact of change in body weight BW and body composition on longevity was analysed using linear mixed models with random slopes and intercepts. Conclusions This study shows that life-long maintenance of lean body mass and attenuated accumulation of body fat were key factors in achieving a longer lifespan. The results suggest that a combination of a high quality plane of nutrition with appropriate husbandry and healthcare are important in obtaining a greater than expected proportion of Labrador retrievers living well beyond that of the expected breed lifespan: .Keywords: Ageing, Exceptional longevity, Healthspan, Body weight, Sarcopenia, Lean body mass, Body fat mass, Nutrition, Husbandry, Healthcare Background For the domesticated dog Canis lupus familiaris , changes observed through ageing can be seen as good e. Physiological changes that may be important biomarkers of ageing in dogs include increasing body fat, reducing lean body mass of which lean muscle mass is an important component , periodontal disease, osteoarthritis, reduced renal or cardiac function, changes to the endocrine system including insulin and glycaemic control , cognitive and behavioural changes and the development of neoplastic disease [ 1 — 4 ]. In the domestic dog, reported average longevity estimates for all breeds combined have varied between .Upon review of the body of evidence available from to , a consensus was reached that the typical lifespan of Labrador retrievers was 12 years of age Table 1. The domesticated dog represents an exceptional range of phenotypic morphology with breeds varying in weight by two-orders of magnitude [ 9 ]. It is not clear what effect neutering has on longevity as one study reported that neutering was associated with increased longevity for females but not males in the UK [ 6 ], whilst neutered males outlived entire males among US military dogs [ 13 ]. Another study has shown that neutering was strongly associated with an increase in lifespan as well as a decreased risk of death from some causes, such as infectious disease, but an increased risk of death from others, such as cancer [ 14 ]. The discrepancies might be related to the age of neutering, however, there is a lack of information on this.

They are trained, interacted with regularly, and given the love and attention they need to start life. We look forward to helping you find your puppy with us so they will continue to receive the care and compassion they deserve. Our Mission: Raise healthy, family-oriented puppies bred from solid genetic lines ensuring that each puppy sold aligns with our vision statement. Our Vision: To see our puppies receive love and care in their forever home, as shown in our loving family home during their first eight weeks after birth, before going to their new home. We want each puppy's love and loyalty reciprocated between you and them, as shown in their genetic traits. Each of our dogs has strong genetics and bloodlines, as do the males they are bred with. Embark Genetic testing results are available for review if requested. We have built our reputation as a trusted, family-friendly dog breeder in Lebanon, PA. Since our early childhood in the s and throughout our marriage, we raised Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. Today we are educating and passing on our experiences to our children as they raise the next generations of Doodles and AKC Retrievers. We take our responsibilities very seriously and strive to ensure our pets' health, safety, and well-being. That's why the happiest days for us are when one of our puppies becomes part of a loving and welcoming new home! Contact Us. Life Span Did You Know? There is a reason that year after year, the Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog breed in the United States. The history of the Labrador Retriever dates back to the early s in Newfoundland, just off the Atlantic coast of Canada. Had these families not played a vital part in the continuation of the breed, the loving and affectionate Labs we have all grown to love may not exist today. The first recognized Yellow Labrador Retriever was born in .One of the friendliest breeds out there, Yellow Labs are great companions and love to be a part of the family. While the color yellow is part of their namesake, their coats range from fawn or cream to butterscotch or a deep golden hue. Coming into popularity during the midth century, the Yellow Labrador Retriever has been a staple for hunters and family homes alike ever since. These dogs are patient and kind when faced with energetic young ones. Yellow Labs delight in big spaces, opting to run and play wildly. However, they will happily lounge on the couch after having a long, hard run outside. When given a little training, they can easily learn to control barking habits and restrain themselves from digging. Their double coat also makes them a good fit for just about any climate. As with most dogs, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold. Generally speaking, Labradors are healthy. They can develop certain inherent conditions, along with cataracts and kneecap displacement, but will remain healthy overall. As long as they are taken to their vet appointments with regularity, Labs will usually feel just fine. Yellow Labs are loyal companions with few drawbacks. Treats never hurt, of course. This, paired with their eagerness to please, makes them a highly trainable dog breed that is a good fit for owners of any experience level. With minimal training, these dogs can control their barking and digging without much trouble. Labs have very short, double-layered, and water-resistant fur. Its density protects them from the cold, so they will often try to swim any time of year. They experience heavier seasonal shedding twice a year and slight shedding throughout the year. Giving them a good brush once a week or a few times a week should keep their coats shiny and healthy. Other grooming tasks include nail trimming, ear care, and dental care. Proper dental care for dogs includes brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day. This helps prevent the tartar buildup that causes dental diseases like gum disease and tooth decay. You can also supplement your dental care efforts with dental hygiene chews, a special dental care diet, and more. This breed tends to be very active. They were bred to be working dogs and need exercise. A few daily walks and some time to run should help assuage their energy levels. Yellow Labs also need a fair amount of mental activity as well; they like to stay sharp. Yellow Labs are classified as medium to large dogs. They reach an average height of 23 inches and an average healthy weight of 75 pounds. A Yellow Labrador Retriever generally lives years. It was traditional in Newfoundland for every fishing boat to have a Labrador Retriever that would help retrieve the fish as they came in off the trawl. Featured Yellow Labrador Retriever Article.

One look and an instant calm will probably wash over you. Stress simply melts away. Because Golden Retrievers are notoriously loyal and obedient. They can look silly with their big goofy grins. Or they can look stoic and wise beyond their years with their striking, deep brown eyes. CutenessOverload Everything they do is adorable Just watching your pup go from an adorable average of 10 pounds right when you get them at 8 weeks old to a sizable 70 pounds at the year mark is cuter than anything you can imagine. Or falling asleep in your lap. Or busting your pup discreetly chewing on your brand new pair of sneakers in their new closet lair is the cutest. There are too many cute things! Everything will be adorable and glee-inducing if done by a Golden Retriever pup — even the behaviors that, by all logic, should annoy you to no end. This is a good thing because a puppy this adorable is definitely going to be a popular one. Golden Retriever puppies make friends with kids , adults, and other animals while keeping their trademark smiles on their faces. They are so friendly, in fact, that they may not be the best bet when looking for guard dogs. A Golden will usually greet any stranger, including during a break-in, with a welcoming smile on their face. But they will love you best Again, the loyalty of a Golden Retriever pup cannot be stressed enough; it is strong. At the end of the day, your athletic, big-pawed, adventurous, silly, and loving Golden pup will only have eyes for you. Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue. I've photographed many families along with their beloved dog, often a Golden. I've had numerous Golden Retrievers in my training classes over the years, whether they be reds, English Cremes or the beautiful blonde that we so typically think of when we think of a Golden Retriever. Goldens hail from Scotland originally and are known as a hard-working breed, often employed as service animals and therapy dogs. They're also known for their voracious appetites, young-at-heart personalities and their penchant for carrying things in their mouths particularly when excited. Goldens are intelligent, athletic dogs, and are exceptional competitors in dog sports like obedience, agility, dock diving and more. Golden Retrievers gorgeous coats and perennially smiling face make them a dream to photograph, especially during their little butterball puppy stage. When Moana's that's "mow-ah-nah" dog mom contacted me for cute little puppy pics, of course I said "Yes" right after I squealed with delight and we quickly secured a session on the calendar before she got any bigger! The sun was shining, the flowers were in bloom and Moana romped and played and we caught it all. At the viewing and ordering appointment, Brenda had a hard time narrowing down her favorites because Moana's just that cute, but we eventually got there. She decided on ordering two plush blankets one for her and one for Moana's bed along with a digital negative package which is presented in a handmade reclaimed barn wood box with a metal print on the cover and a 5x7 print of each image inside along with a USB drive with all the high resolution digital image files. Doggy Daddy: Tucker I was recently contacted by the Creed family to take their family portraits and they requested that I take a few pet portraits of their very special family member, Tucker. It was only later when Moana's mom shared her Christmas mini session photo of Moana with them see below , that the Creeds asked if those were taken by Penny Whistle Photography. Brenda contacted me afterward to say "You just photographed Moana's daddy". Small world indeed and now I know where Moana gets her good looks! Tracy Allard of Penny Whistle Photography is a Certified Professional Photographer with the organization Professional Photographers of America; a designation held by fewer than 2, photographers nationwide and a hallmark of consistency, technical skill, artistry and professionalism. Tracy offers special services to local Dallas - Fort Worth dog and cat breeders, creating unique images for their websites, social media and marketing purposes. Contact her to find out more about this offering.

What would be the perfect puppy to you? Well, many people would think of the beautiful German Shepherd breed. This versatile, hard-working, intelligent dog is truly good at so many things. You are sure that you want to become a German Shepherd owner, so where should you start your journey? The answer is easy: the first thing you need to do is check the breeder! Since German Shepherds are pretty popular in Massachusetts, there are many breeders who can offer you this dog breed. So, how can you make a decision and choose a breeder? By doing this, you will see the environment where the German Shepherd is living, and you will also be able to estimate his daily routine and his relationship with the breeders, too. Just calling or texting your breeder before you buy is simply not enough! Beware that you are welcoming a new life into your home, and that both of you will have to make certain adjustments. Therefore, one visit to the kennel could either allow you to decide whether you should become a German Shepherd owner, or maybe wait with this decision. Before you decide to buy a German Shepherd, check with the breeder if their dogs have AKC health certificates. If you are dealing with a reputable breeder, this is the most normal question, which you will not even have to ask because for reputable breeders, a health certificate is a must. However, if the breeder avoids answering this question or does not offer any specific answer, take this as a warning. He is probably a frivolous breeder who does not care enough about the health of his dogs. Well, if the breeder has a reputable veterinarian, and suggests that you check references from past customers, allowing you to see clearly that the puppies are living in really good conditions — we can say that you will not make a mistake by choosing to buy your German Shepherd from this kind of breeder. Just to be sure: the best way is to pay a visit to a couple of kennels in order to finally make the right decision. However, the price depends on a couple of factors. Color German Shepherds are usually either black, sable , or gray, or else they have two colors combined: black and silver , black and red, or black and tan. Still, if you are a fan of rare colors, there are some unusual German Shepherd colors, such as the Isabella German Shepherd , whose color is light lavender, or the Liver German Shepherd , which resembles a brownish red. Working lines or show lines? If you are looking for a friend and companion in your dog, then a show-line German Shepherd would be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you are thinking of a protective, obedient dog, then a working-line German Shepherd is the one you should be looking for. However, be ready to pay some more money for working lines. That boosts the initial price by at least a few hundred dollars. To Conclude This dog breed is very popular and extremely versatile — no wonder why there are so many German Shepherd breeders in Massachusetts. If you are looking for healthy German Shepherd puppies in Massachusetts, make sure you have thought about all of the important questions related to the choice of a breeder. Just like you are making a choice for the best breeder, a reputable breeder is looking for the best possible new homes for their German Shepherds that he has been raising and training from birth. If you are to become a proud German Shepherd owner, make your yard the perfect place for your magnificent new friend to enjoy! For the complete list please see our resource links page. Are the puppies bred for quality or quantity? Do the parents have health clearances? What genetic testing has been done on the puppies? Are the puppies raised in a home environment? What type of support and training does the breeder offer? How often do the breeders breed their dogs? But prices can vary depending on the breeder. When looking for a breeder, it is important to set your budget before you start searching for a puppy. If you have an exact price in mind, this will help you eliminate breeders that are outside of your price range. These dogs typically cost less than a dog from a breeder. But be aware that these dogs may not have all of their shots or they may be ill with something like parvovirus. In some cases, it is possible to adopt animals from places other How to Find A Responsible German Shepherd Breeder in Massachusetts If you are looking for a responsible German Shepherd breeder in Massachusetts, there are a few things you can do to make sure you are choosing a reputable breeder. First, ask your friends and family if they have any recommendations. If they have had a good experience with a breeder, they will be more than happy to recommend them to you. Second, do some online research. There are many websites that allow dog owners to review breeders. Reading through these reviews can give you a good idea of what the breeder is like and whether or not they are reputable. Third, social media is a great new way to find out about breeders that may not be in your local area. If you do not want to visit the kennel in person, at least meet with the breeder of your pup face-to-face before you put any money down. Spend some time getting to know the breeder through email or even by telephone but insist that you will only purchase if they would be willing to let you come and visit their facility in person. There are plenty of reputable breeders out there who will be more than happy to help you find the perfect puppy for your family. Do your research, ask lots of questions. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your German Shepherd Breeder in Massachusetts Make sure the breeder has a list of references that you can contact who have purchased dogs from them in the past. Do not be afraid to call or email these people and ask questions about their experience with the breeder, whether they are happy with their dog, if they recommend her, and if they would buy a dog from her again. Be prepared to wait for the right puppy. Be cautious of any German Shepherd Breeder in Massachusetts that does not offer you references. If your breeder tells you he is unable to provide this information for some reason, then take this as a red flag and politely thank him for his time but do not purchase anything from him. An ethical breeder will be happy to provide you with documentation that proves that his dogs are healthy and have been cleared of any genetic health issues. Ask Your Massachusetts German Shepherd Breeder if You Can Meet Past Customers Many people who go to a breeder and meet the parents of the puppy they are interested in, find out that if they had met some of the past customers who have purchased a puppy from our German Shepherd Breeder, they would not have even considered buying a puppy from this breeder. Many of these past customers will tell you that they did not get what was been promised to them when it came to the exercise requirements, temperament and loyalty qualities that these German Shepherds possessed. In fact, many of us made costly mistakes with our first dog or dogs because we were unaware of the time commitments involved in owning a quality German Shepherd Dog that is going to resemble what has been advertised by so many breeders around the country. Meeting past customers will help you to understand what you are getting into if you purchase a puppy from our German Shepherd Breeder. We want you to be happy with your new addition for years to come, and talking to people who have already gone through the process is the best way to gauge whether or not our breeder is right for you. When looking for a German Shepherd Breeder in Massachusetts, it is important that you ask if you can meet some of their past customers. This will help you to understand what kind of experience you can expect if you purchase a puppy from them. Happy customers are the best advertisement a breeder can have. One of the things that you will want to ask your breeder is if they have a good veterinarian that they use. This is important because you will want to make sure that your puppy has all of its vaccinations and is healthy. When looking for a German Shepherd Breeder in Massachusetts, it is important to ask if they have a good veterinarian that they use. This will help you to ensure that your puppy is healthy and has all of its vaccinations. Happy and healthy puppies are the goal of every breeder. Some of these signs include: The breeder does not allow you to meet any past customers The breeder does not have a good veterinarian that they use The puppies are kept in poor conditions The breeder is asking for too much money for a puppy If you see any of these signs, it is best to walk away and find a different breeder. It is not worth it to purchase a puppy from an unethical breeder, as you will likely end up with a dog that has health problems and behaves poorly. Ask The Massachusetts Breeder if Your German Shepherd Puppy Has Any Health Problems The best way to determine whether or not a breeder is ethical and responsible is to ask if the puppies they offer for sale have any health problems. Most reputable German Shepherd Dog Breeders in Massachusetts provide you with a written health guarantee that ensures every puppy they sell will be free of genetic health issues. An honest and ethical breeder should be able to prove their claims by providing you with proof that all of their dogs are free from genetic health concerns. If they cannot do this, then walk away. When your puppy is first brought home it is a good idea to confine them to a crate or a small area with nothing on the ground that they can chew. This lets them get used to being in one spot without getting into trouble. Once you have taught your German Shepherd Dog not to chew things you can give them free reign of the house though still keeping dangerous items out of their reach. If you want, but this may be difficult if your new dog has already chewed through everything at least once, you can purchase some baby gates and put them up around your house so that your puppy is confined to specific rooms unless they are leashed. If all goes well, and it usually does, after about 3 months sometimes sooner your puppy will have learned the house rules and can be allowed to roam free. Potty Training Your New German Shepherd Puppy One of the most important things you will need to do when potty training your new puppy is to be consistent. You should take them out every time they eat, drink, or play and also after they wake up from a nap. Reward them with lots of praise and a treat when they go potty in the right spot. It can be helpful to put your puppy on a regular feeding schedule as this will help with predictability when it comes to going potty. Once your puppy is consistently going potty outside you can start to slowly lengthen the amount of time between bathroom breaks. Training Your German Shepherd Dog German Shepherds are intelligent dogs and with a little bit of training they can be taught to do all sorts of things. Some popular commands that people teach their GSDs are sit, stay, come, down, and guard. You can find lots of resources online about how to train your dog using positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise. One thing to keep in mind when training your German Shepherd is that they need plenty of exercise. A good way to tire them out is to take them on long walks or play fetch with them in the park. Thank you for reading and happy hunting. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. German Shepherds for sale in Massachusetts Regis Regal Specializes in providing world class German Shepherd puppies and trained adult dogs Serving Massachusetts with german shepherds since With over 30 years experience in the breeding and training of world-class German Shepherds from some of the top bloodlines out of Germany, here at Regis Regal German Shepherds we've been very proud to have sold our puppies and adult dogs to the residents of Massachusetts. We're a small family run operation with our main training and breeding facilities based in Spring Grove, Illinois. Because of the quality and pedigree of our German Shepherds there's been a demand for our dogs all over the world. The owner, Cynthia Kelly, has a lifetime of experience in creating the perfect family companion, service dog or therapy dog. Because of the lack of top quality German Shepherd breeders in some parts of the United States, we've carefully set ourselves up so that we can send our dogs direct to your home by use of a private courier service. German Shepherd Breeders in Massachusetts There are a number of great German Shepherd breeders in Massachusetts, from Worcester to Boston, but have you considered looking further afield for the perfect puppy? At Regis Regal German Shepherds we produce a select number of puppies at any one time, and take the utmost care when raising and training them ready for ownership. You should not forget that when it comes to buying a puppy you also need to be mindful of other costs outside of the purchase or adoption fee. Included within the cost of our puppies are: Lifetime health guarantee contingent on meeting criteria stated in the contract. Send us a message or give us a ring on .Emotional support dogs are suited for both children and adults and have the ability to work with their owners in all types of locations. We have placed many dogs with children and teenagers that suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and manic disorders. Service dogs provide a physical service to their owners. We have been incredibly successful in providing service dogs to children in MA afflicted with Autism and Asbergers, as our dogs can help to enhance the verbal skills of non-verbal Autistic children and support their overall way of communicating. Some of our previous placements our dog courier service - we ship to your door in MA! You might find this a bit hard to believe but we actually ship right to your door, wherever you are based in the US! Such is the demand for one of our dogs we decided it would make things a lot easier for our customers if we could hand-deliver them right to you. For those people in need of a top class GSD, and who can't get to our premises, this is a bit of a lifesaver. We make use of a private courier service whereby they come to us and pickup the dog in their vehicle before making the journey to your home. Our driver is well trained in the handling and care of your dog on the trip, and due to their temperament our dogs always enjoy the journey! On rare occasions our dogs have flown out to their destination, again accommpanied by one of the Regis Regal team to ensure for a very smooth and calm trip. We also go through a very thorough process to make sure our dogs are going to the right kind of owner - at the end of the day it's really important that we can rest easy at night knowing they'll be going to someone that's going to love them as much as we do. Because of COVID we've held plenty of online meetings where you can ask us any questions about our dogs, and you can even get to meet-and-greet them virtually! Reviews from Customers based in MA We like to think we've made a lot of people in Massachusetts happy over the years that we've been in business. Take a look below at some of the feedback we've received to date. You can find more reviews of ours here too. I started searching for a good German Shepherd with good temperament, good health and from a good blood line. I searched and searched for a long time; across the country, even across the world but then I met Cynthia Kelly from Regis Regal German Shepherds. She is an encyclopedia and a wealth of knowledge about this breed. She paired me with, what I consider, a once in life time puppy. Thank you Cynthia - Manny is amazing! As you can imagine this can change quite regularly - so please send us a message below, or give us a call on .We look forward to hearing from you! Your name.