german shepherd puppies for sale in albuquerque nm

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for Austin Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Austin? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Austin? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. In addition we are just two hours west of the Houston, Katy area. Also, three hours south of the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex. Our home sits on 25 acres of rolling pasture. I love that we can just open a gate to take our Golden Retrievers for a run in the field or for a swim in one of our two ponds. As a Golden Retriever breeder one of my goals has always been to produce healthy puppies. Therefore, all Golden Retrievers used in my breeding program have their hips and elbows x-rayed and then submitted to the OFA Orthopedic Foundation for Animals for a rating. All of our pedigrees have generations of health testing. Equally important to health is temperament. A properly bred Golden Retriever is a joy to live with. Goldens should get along well with other dogs and possess a willingness to please. Golden Retrievers love spending as much time as they can with people. They are always ready to fetch a tennis ball or cuddle on a couch. This is why the Golden Retriever is one of the most popular breeds for families. Reputable breeders only use Goldens with correct temperament in their breeding programs because they know that temperament is one of the most important aspects of our breed. Lastly, is the importance of Breed type and structure. Breed type are the traits that make a Golden Retriever resemble a Golden Retriever and not a Labrador Retriever or any other breed of dog. For instance, the coat of a Golden is very different from the coat of a Labrador. Likewise, the ears of a Golden Retriever are very different from those of a Doberman. Each breed recognized by the AKC has a breed standard, a description of that breed. The Golden Retriever breed standard describes what the ideal Golden Retriever should look like and behave like. Reputable breeders use the breed standard as a guide when making breeding decisions. After all, who wants to purchase a Golden Retriever who looks like an Irish Setter and acts like a Rottweiler? Structure is as important to a dogs health as clearances. For example, if a dog has weak front pasterns, a cow hocked rear, a weak topline, etc. So while it may seem unimportant to have many Champion CH dogs in the pedigree of your puppy, those CH dogs would most likely not have earned that title if they were not structurally sound. Structural soundness is important for all living beings. I hope that you enjoy your visit to our site and find some of the information presented here helpful. He's our third Golden and is the king of our home. He has a larger than life personality and keeps us on our toes. Active, smart, playful, loving and funny all rolled into one handsome boy. He is everything a Golden should be. We couldn't imagine life without him and love him more every day. He's the most gentle, friendly and affectionate guy! The perfect addition for a family with young children.Sue was great to work with. She brings knowledge and expertise about the breed and has earned her positive reputation. You can easily tell that she genuinely loves each and every puppy. They are treated with loving care in her home. From the first week with our family, Memphis has been going to work with his momma. What started as a way for Memphis to be socialized and cared for during the day soon progressed to his becoming a member of the team. Nowadays, when he goes to work, he welcomes all of the employees and clients to the company. He makes the rounds throughout the day to make sure everyone pays sufficient attention to him. When not hard at work, he is looking after his person. He helps wake her up and get her ready for school in the morning. He also makes sure she is never alone at bedtime. And of course, he always makes sure she has a playmate. But every busy dog also needs downtime. In all seriousness, Yellow Rose and Susan are amazing. When we first reached out to Susan, she welcomed us into her home so that we could meet her dogs and see where she raises and works with them. It was clear from the start that she is not simply a breeder. She clearly loves each of her babies as they are part of her family. The level of attention she gives to them is beyond compare and it shows in the process she uses for finding families for her puppies. With her application process and the puppy selection process, we felt confident that she would select the right puppy for us. And we were right. Memphis has been a wonderful addition to our family. He loves playing with our daughter, whether she is laying on him while reading a book or running around the yard playing ball. He loves to go on 5-mile walks with his momma or sleep on the couch and watch a movie with his daddy. He is a perfect match for our family. We would like to thank Susan for being such a thoughtful and caring breeder. The time and attention she gives to her dogs and her puppies is evident in everything she does. We recommend her and her dogs to everyone wanting a wonderful golden as part of their family. Jay and Santana Susan exhibits the finest qualities all responsible canine parents should seek out. She leaves nothing to chance with regard to her puppies health, wellbeing and placement. The amount of dedication Susan displays before, during and after a puppies placement is admirable.

Pugs are lap dogs originally bred for companionship. They require a lot of attention and, therefore, love to cuddle and are happy following you everywhere or sitting on your lap when you are home. Since they love being around you, Pugs will suffer when left home alone. This is one reason they will tend to whine and cry a lot. But your Pug crying could also communicate anxiety, frustration, or pain. Their need for attention also makes them prone to boredom and separation anxiety when left alone. Pugs are tiny and easy to bring around. Besides, they will follow you faithfully. Consider A Substitute Companion If you have to go to work daily and your Pug will be home alone, consider hiring someone to be with your dog when you are away. Ensure that a connection has been created between your Pug and the substitute before proceeding to leave your puppy with them. You can also consider using technology that allows you to monitor, give treats, and stay connected with your Pug when you are away. The Furbo Dog Camera is a perfect option for the job. Other Ways Avoid ritualizing departures and re-entries and make separation part of socialization training when your Pug is still a puppy. The Pug is also known to be stubborn, and this could make training more difficult and require plenty of patience. Consider training your dog in the morning hours when his energy is still high and focus is obtained more easily. As friendly companions, Pugs can be overly sensitive to punitive treatment. So, never shout at your Pug during training as this will make them frightened of you and no learning will be achieved. Giving in to their whim will only make them more difficult to train and heed commands. Involve persons who interact with your Pug in the training process so your dog learns to also take commands from them. This could be family members or a substitute caregiver. Besides, they are heavy shedders and require consistent grooming. Focus on these aspects when grooming your Pug. Monthly Baths A bath a month is a good schedule for your Pugs heavy coat. Baths will control shedding and get rid of loose fur. This may be caused by sweat or dirt in their skin folds or yeast between their paws , so a bath is a good care routine. Since your Pug has sensitive skin, use a mild shampoo with a pH of 6. This should also check body odor. Also, clean their eyes off the salty fluids and their face folds daily with safe medicated grooming wipes. Your Pug is an adult by the age of 1 but may still show puppy tendencies at this age. Its growth can still occur between 1. This may also be accentuated by their need to keep warm, which they are not always able to achieve naturally by themselves. Whether letting your Pug sleep with you is right or not is all up to your decision. Down syndrome is a congenital defect caused by partial or complete duplication of chromosome 21 in humans. Dogs have different chromosomal makeup. Your dog may have a canine-chromosomal defect with symptoms similar to Down syndrome in humans. Like many small dog breeds, Pugs reach their full size faster than medium to large-sized dogs. Pugs reach their adult size around nine months of age but may continue to put on a small amount of muscle until they are a year old. Image Source: Pexels How big should a 6-month-old Pug be? A six-month-old Pug will weigh between 7 and 12 pounds on average and will be close to their full adult height, which is typically around 10 to 13 inches tall. Pugs are highly prone to putting on excess weight and their food intake needs to be monitored closely. Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide with 39 dog care tips on health, puppy-proofing practices, training, winter and summer safety, and more! How much bigger will my Pug get? Pugs reach their full size around nine months of age but may continue filling out until they are a year old. If your Pug is younger than nine months old, they are definitely still growing! If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, they are likely still growing. This is a classic puppy feature that indicates that more growth is needed. A puppy will rarely grow to be larger than their bigger parent, so this will also give you an idea of their maximum size. What is the size of a full-grown Pug? According to the American Kennel Club Official Pug Standards , you can expect a full-grown Pug to weigh between 14 and 18 pounds and stand 10 to 13 inches tall. A full-grown Pug will appear compact and solid, rather than lean and leggy. If your Pug continues to put on weight past 18 pounds, reach out to your veterinarian to assess whether your Pug is putting on excessive weight. If your Pug weighs more than 18 pounds, consult with your veterinary professional to ensure that they are at their healthiest weight. Pugs are especially prone to heatstroke due to their compromised breathing. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial to lessening the side effects of brachycephalic syndrome. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct narrow nostrils or elongated soft palettes. Many veterinary treatments and procedures cost thousands of dollars. When surveyed, Only .This is a crucial factor in why pet insurance is so valuable to pet parents. Pet insurance reimburses you a percentage of your out of pocket expenditure for veterinary bills. Not only can pet insurance provide you peace of mind should surgery or treatments be needed, but available wellness plans can significantly reduce the cost of routine veterinary exams or maintenance, like dog teeth cleaning or x-rays. Your veterinarian is your greatest resource in keeping your pup happy and healthy. Continue making healthy lifestyle choices, like daily exercise and a nutritious diet, for your Pug to keep them active and living their best life! Unfortunately, Pugs are prone to a larger number of health issues due to their brachycephalic syndrome and other genetic predispositions. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Overview When you have a dog from the age of a young pup, this gives you a wonderful opportunity. It offers you a chance to bond with your dog from the very beginning. This also gives you an advantage because you will be able to train and teach your pup what they need to know before they learn any bad behavior from elsewhere. This section will discuss how to care for a Pug puppy, starting at 8 weeks old and up until he or she is an adult, at the age of 1 year. Transition to a New Home Things will run much smoother if you plan ahead and have most, if not all, of your puppy care items already in your home. Here are the most important items to have: A crate — One with an adjustable size is best to fit the needs of a growing Pug puppy. Crating is a good night time method to use until a pup is housebroken. Gates or a playpen — Choosing an area to gate off or using a canine playpen are good options for when you must leave your Pug puppy home alone or for when you cannot be right at his side. This keeps the pup in a controlled space which helps in regard to bathroom needs and keeping a puppy in one area when he or she has strong chewing urges. Puppy food — This should be obtained before the puppy is brought home. Owners will not always agree with the food that a puppy has been being fed, however any change should be done gradually. Have the food that the Pug has been used to eating on hand, as well as your new choice. Details regarding making this change can be found here: Feeding a Pug. You'll also want them to be sized appropriately and at floor level. Honey — Puppies are prone to the condition of hypoglycemia, which is a rapid and dangerous drop in blood sugar levels. Stress, among other things, can bring this on and while going to a new home is a happy event, it can also be stressful for a little pup that is leaving all that he knew and no longer has the companionship and friendship of his litter-mates. Treatment can be provided at home as plans are being made to bring the puppy to the closest animal hospital or veterinarian. A small dab of honey is rubbed onto the gums and then the puppy should receive professional treatment, sometimes an IV to restore sugar levels back to normal. Leash, collar and harness — Pugs are prone to conditions that involve breathing problems. The body structure of this breed confines breathing passages into a small space and Pugs can have smaller than normal nasal passages and openings stenotic nares. For this reason, using a harness can help a Pug breathe easier when on leash. A short 6 foot leash works best for both potty training and heeling. Read more : Choosing the Best Collar and Harness for a Pug Grooming supplies — The thick coat of a Pug sheds heavily and brushing it well and offering baths on a regular basis can help control shedding. Starting dental care at a young age can help a puppy become used to this grooming element and set up a foundation for a life time of good dental hygiene practices. Keeping the wrinkles, eyes and ears clean are important part of caring for a Pug puppy. Read more: Shedding - Expect your Pug to shed a lot and be prepared by having the right tools. Dental care - Taking care of your Pug's teeth should be high on your priority list. Ears - Expected shapes and proper care. Wrinkles - Keeping the wrinkles dry and clean. Sleeping supplies - Some owners prefer to have their puppy sleep in the bed with them and while this is not always a bad thing, an owner should think about how that will play out as the pup matures into a much larger adult dog. Having a pup get used to his own canine bed from the beginning, set up in a quiet corner of a room, may work out best. Do keep in mind that Pugs crave human companionship and do not like to feel isolated. Setting up the bed in a quiet corner of a well-used room allows a Pug to have a nice area to retreat to for rest and sleep while allowing him to be close to his human family. It will be normal for a little one to sleep anywhere from 16 to 18 hours a day.This included both night time sleep and naps that will be taken throughout the day. Chew Toys — Teething will begin around the age of 3 or 4 months old and can last up until a Pug puppy is 8 months old. Having a good supply of toys on hand for a puppy to chew on is important. Puppy Proofing Before bringing a puppy home and on a regular basis at least weekly owners are encouraged to go over all floors to remove any small objects that could be accidentally swallowed. All items that could be chewed on such as pocket books and shoes should be placed up high until the Pug has matured. Whining It is normal for very young puppies to cry when first brought to a new home, this usually only lasts for a week or so as the pup becomes used to his new family and environment. This can also be a sign of needing to go to the bathroom, so following house training guidelines, be sure to take your Pug puppy outside on a regular basis. Vaccinations for the Pug Puppy An important part of caring for your puppy will be to make sure he or she is up-to-date for all needed vaccinations. An 8-week-old should already have received his shots, as well as a de-worming. Veterinarians will have varying schedules, however this is a general guideline: 5 weeks Parvovirus: For puppies at high risk of exposure to parvo, some veterinarians recommend vaccinating at 5 weeks. Dogs at high risk are those that live in areas where wild life raccoon, skunk, deer, etc. The inclusion of either canine adenovirus-1 or adenovirus-2 in a vaccine will protect against both adenovirus cough and hepatitis; adenovirus-2 is highly preferred. You will want to talk to your veterinarian about this. Reactions to Vaccines Immunizations are intended to stimulate the immune system to then protect a dog against a specific infectious disease. It is very important to have your Pug receive all needed vaccinations. Your Pug may react to immunizations in ways that range from soreness at the site of injection to mild fever to allergic reactions. The allergic reactions can range from mild to severe. Mild- Mild reactions include fever, sluggishness, and loss of appetite. Mild reactions usually resolve without any treatment needed. This is called Urticaria. This happens when there is a reaction of the skin and shows as hives or bumps. It is usually extremely itchy. Urticaria may progress to anaphylaxis, which is considered life-threatening. However, Urticaria is the most common reaction in dogs if a reaction is to happen. Severe - The most severe reaction is anaphylaxis. This is a very fast, sudden, severe allergic response that causes breathing difficulties, collapse and possible death. This is very rare. Urticaria the moderate and most common reaction, if one is to occur happens soon after vaccination, often even before the puppy is brought home. It can happen in the car while you are driving back to your house. Your veterinarian will recommend immediate return to the hospital for treatment. Urticaria is usually treated successfully with injectable corticosteroids like dexamethasone or prednisone. Antihistamines do little to help with acute allergic reactions but may be given by injection to help prevent recurrence of symptoms after steroids wear off. Mild vaccination reactions usually require no treatment. However, if the symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, call your veterinarian. Growth Rate A Pug puppy grows quickly and this can happen gradually or with spurts and stops. Many Pug puppies have a growth spurt near the 3 to 5 month mark. As the pup nears the 1 year mark, growth will slow down. Once a Pug reaches his or her full height, there may still be some growth in the width of the Pug, as the chest widens and fills out. How a Pug ages and his growth is rapid, yet can be staggered during the first year. Getting Your Puppy Comfortable One of the most important parts of bringing a puppy home is allowing him or her to become used to their new surroundings. Allow your pup to roam around and check out his new environment. Be sure to keep a puppy's water in one designed spot so that the pup can know that it can always be found. The drinking and feeding area should be in a quite corner of a room, without much foot traffic or noise, since small puppies can feel vulnerable while eating. The absolute longest that a 2 month old pup can hold their needs is 2 hours. The bladder and bowel muscles are not yet fully developed. As they grow older, this time will increase as they have more control over their body. Usually it will increase by 1 hour for each month that goes by. Therefore, a 3 month old can hold on for about 3 hours, a 4 month old for about 4 hours and so on.With 8 hours being the maximum time for any age. Informational Note: When your 2 month old needs to go outside at least every 2 hours, be sure to not get stuck into that habit.It is important to slowly increase the time intervals. Your 3 month old can wait about 3 hours, but only if you allow the pup to use his bowel and bladder muscles to work and grow stronger. If an owner always brought their Pug outside every 2 hours, the dog would never learn to hold their needs for a longer period of time. Keep reading about the best way to house train a Pug puppy. All puppy vaccinations should be given before you take him or her out to the park, to pet supply stores or any other area in which there may have been or could be other animals. Many new owners already have another dog in the household. As your puppy grows older and is receiving the needed vaccinations, you can slowly begin introducing your new puppy to other dogs and allow normal socialization to begin. The Necessities of Care To have a healthy and happy puppy that will grow into a happy and healthy adult dog, make sure to always provide the essentials: A proper diet. You will need to decide if you want to offer manufacture food, home cooked food or a combination of both. Pugs are very sensitive to their human's emotions. A hug goes a long way! All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. As newborns they are deaf, bind, and largely immobile. They rely on their mom, or their breeder for food, warmth, and care. A Pug is Born! Unfortunately, the birthing process of Pugs is a difficult one. Flat-faced breeds, such as the Pug, are more likely to experience complications when giving birth. The Pug is also more likely to experience Dystocia, which is simply a term that means difficult or abnormal birth. Such situations put both the mother and her pups at risk. More often than not, the mother will require her pups to be delivered by a C-section. This is due to the fact that unborn Pugs have large and broad heads, whilst their mom has a very narrow pelvis. This awkward combination makes natural birth difficult. If the birth is successful, Pugs commonly have litters containing puppies, with 4 pups being the average. If your baby Pug is born naturally, their mother will next turn to chewing off the umbilical cord and cleaning them up. This is an important part of the bonding experience for mother dogs. The newborn Pugs will often nurse from their mother. When they are not nursing, they will spend the majority of their time sleeping. Newborn Pugs Pug pups begin their life fully reliant on their mother. They are born blind, deaf, and without teeth. A coat should be present, with the color being commonly either fawn or black. Fawn pups may experience their coat color lightening or darkening in shade as they mature. Their eyes and ears will be closed at birth and will remain this way for a while yet. Unable to support their own body weight, they will crawl on their stomach to get around. Baby Pugs are also not able to regulate their temperature, meaning that it is very important to stay warm. They will commonly clump together in piles, sharing body heat. Finally, the mother will also have to help her pups urinate and defecate as they are unable to do so by themselves. She does this by licking the anal and genital areas. One Week Old Baby Pug During the first week of life, baby Pug pups will either be nursing off their mother or sleeping. As they are still blind and deaf at this stage, they will not bother exploring or moving around more than necessary, spending most of their time lying close to their littermates and mother. Their weight should steadily increase every day. At the end of their first week of life, they should have doubled their birth weight, or at least come close. The owners of the pups will need to keep an eye on their breathing as brachycephalic breeds, such as the Pug, commonly have breathing issues. Two Week Old Baby Pug As we hit two weeks of age, we see a key development in the puppies growth; their eyes will open for the very first time! To begin with, their eye color will be blue, but will likely transition into a dark brown as they mature. Owners need to check over their eyes to ensure there are no issues, as this breed can be susceptible to ocular problems. At this stage, they may be a little more curious about their surroundings due to their newfound eyesight. However, they will still primarily be focused on sleeping and nursing. Their weight should continue to rise steadily over the coming weeks. By this time, the ears of the baby Pug pups will have opened. They will be able to hear for the first time and will begin reacting to more sounds. Their eyesight will also have developed significantly, with them being able to recognize their mother, littermates, and objects placed in their den. Along with their newfound perception of the world, they should now be able to support their own body weight and stand up. They may be able to walk, albeit with an unsteady gait. With all the interesting sights and sounds around them, they will likely be a lot more inquisitive of their surroundings. They may explore the den as much as their wobbly legs will carry them. The Pug puppies will also start teething, with their baby teeth coming through for the first time. This may start a passing interest in solid food. Gaining Independence On top of all this, they should now be able to urinate and defecate on their own, without any stimulation from their mother. We can also expect to see the start of the early socialization period. The puppies will begin developing behaviors and social skills for the first time, taking part in play with their littermates. Owners of the puppies should take advantage of this period to help them get used to human touch and presence. They will be establishing relationships with their mother, den mates, and people. Training can begin at this early stage. Despite the fact that their brains still have a lot of developing to do, a start can still be made on teaching them basic crate and potty training. They will also likely be much more mobile on their feet. Little adventures will be common and the puppies will play together often. Soft, easy to eat puppy food can be given. They will continue to rise in weight and keep learning social skills, with more complex behaviors being shown. While they seem a lot more independent at this stage, they will still require plenty of time with their mother and den mates before they are ready to be moved to a new home. Six Week Old Baby Pug At six weeks old, the Pug puppies are fast approaching the age where they reach full independence. By now, they should be fully weaned off their mother and placed onto solid food only. This is a big step. There is still much to learn. Up until now, the Pug puppies have been very curious and interested in completely new things. But they have always been safe under the watchful eye of their mom, too. Now, as they finally gain independence, the puppies learn to be cautious and careful; traits that keep them alive in the wild. Eight Week Old Baby Pug At eight weeks old, the Pug pups are developed enough to be able to leave their mother and littermates behind. They can be sold and moved into a new loving home. They should weigh around pounds. Training and Raising a Pug Resources Keep in mind that they still have a lot of developing to do; both physically and mentally! Remember, they are still within their fear period! Things learned here will make a big impact.

As a medium to large-sized dog breed, Boxers need more time to fill out and reach their full size than smaller dog breeds. As a general rule, expect your Boxer to grow until they are 18 to 24 months old. Keep in mind that this range is an estimate, so there are always exceptions. Image Source: Canva How big should a 6-month-old Boxer be? A 6-month-old male Boxer should weigh around 41 to 48 pounds, while a 6-month-old female Boxer will weigh about 39 to 44 pounds. According to Care. For a male Boxer puppy, this would be around 17 to 19 inches tall. Pro Tip: Check out this downloadable new puppy checklist covering topics like vaccination schedules, setting up the home for a new puppy, teething, veterinary visits, and more! How much bigger will my Boxer get? There are several ways to estimate how much bigger your Boxer will grow. If your Boxer is less than two years old, they are likely still growing. Some Boxers stop growing closer to 18 months, but many Boxers will continue to fill out in weight and body size until they are two years old. A puppy will rarely be larger than either parent, so this can give you a clearer idea of their maximum size. Do their paws look oversized compared to their legs and the rest of their body? This is a strong sign that your Boxer is still growing and filling out! What is the size of a full-grown Boxer? According to the American Kennel Club Official Boxer Standards , a full-grown male Boxer will stand around 23 to 25 inches tall, while a female Boxer will stand about .A fully grown male Boxer will weigh around 60 to 70 pounds, with their female counterpart will weigh about 55 to 65 pounds. As with many things, prevention is always better than treatment. Taking your Boxer to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do for their health, along with consistent love and care at home. One of the best things you can do at home is brush your dog's teeth regularly to help prevent painful periodontal disease and avoid pricey dental treatments in the future. Periodontal disease can cause bad breath and oral pain for your pup and may require your Boxer to have a dental cleaning or tooth extractions under anesthesia at some point in their lives if not attended to at home. Keeping your Boxer at a healthy weight is crucial for their longevity, overall health, and happiness. If your Boxer is overweight, talk to your veterinarian to develop a weight loss strategy so that you can get them back on track. Consult with your veterinarian about the ideal food and exercise for your Boxer. Like all dogs, Boxers have certain conditions that they are prone to. Boxers are a purebred dog breed prone to heart problems, like cardiomyopathy, heart valve narrowing, and congenital heart defects. Brachycephalic syndrome increases their risk of respiratory distress, allergies, heatstroke, and sinus problems. Regular veterinarian appointments are crucial in finding and treating illness early to give your Boxer the healthiest and longest life possible. Unfortunately, veterinary bills can be costly with many treatments for emergencies and illnesses, such as heart problems, being thousands of dollars to treat. When surveyed, .The financial safety net provided by pet insurance is why pet insurance is worth it for many pet parents. Keep in mind that even healthy behaviors, like exercise, can be overdone. Consult with your veterinarian about how much exercise is prudent. Medium to large-sized dogs that are still growing may suffer from joint damage if they are overexercised. Make a plan with your veterinarian today to provide your Boxer with the ideal amount of exercise to keep them lean, healthy, and happy. Boxer puppies grow into strong and sturdy adults that make fun-loving, often silly companions, and fierce protectors. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. This post may contain affiliate links. Read more here. Courage and loyalty are attributes the Boxer is usually described with. With a good work ethic, playful demeanor, and a goofy face, this dog breed ranks among the top 10 in the USA for a while now. Their nobility and elegance came to focus after the originally working breed Boxer became unemployed during the early 19th century. The breed name derives from the way they defend themselves with their paws while playing. It really appears as the dog spars with the front paws. There is no doubt one might be tempted to get bring home one of these loving fellas. The growth in dogs has much to say about their health and potential — but how? While growing up dogs that suffer from some diseases might stagnate more than others. Boxers are a medium to large dog breed and are pretty safe from the usual bone and muscle disorders in larger dogs. However, hip dysplasia remains one of the most common issues. Reputable breeders will let you meet the parents and give you contacts from owners of puppies born in previous litters. Most Boxer puppies will correspond just fine to the ranges mentioned for their age. It is super important to not rush the growing process. Dogs that are overweight can experience problems later on in life that might have been avoided by maintaining an appropriate body condition. Moreover, the veterinarian can have the pup checked for possible health conditions causing the slow growth. Photo by otsphoto on Shutterstock Even with late bloomers, there is no reason to worry. Some dogs experience growing episodes sooner than others. The same rules apply to puppies that grow too fast. Damage due to wrong feeding can be avoided by using high-quality premium food and sticking to the recommendations according to weight and age on the labels. Never miss out on consulting your vet on the topic first — they will be glad to guide you through it! Boxer Growth Stages Until they reach adulthood, Boxers go through 3 growth stages. The general difference between the growth stages is how fast the puppy grows during the period and how they appear in posture and body condition. The first stage is from birth until they are 2 weeks of age. After the second week, the growth rate slows down. Most breeders wean the puppies off around the 4th-5th week. At 18 months of age, you can probably introduce your companion as a fully developed, curious, and independent adult Boxer. Boxer puppies have somewhere between 2. At the end of the first stage, they can reach around 4. At 1 month of age, their stuffed muscle figure comes at about 5. By the time they are 16 weeks old, males weigh lbs .Male Boxers are expected to have approximately lbs .In the next six months, the growth slows down to about lbs 0. Male Boxers should weigh around lbs kg by the time they reach 6 months of age. Female boxer puppies are expected to have lbs kg when they are half a year old. Since the Boxer qualifies as a medium to large breed, it takes longer for them to reach their full-sized version compared to other smaller breeds. There are exceptions when Boxers complete the growth at 20, even 24 months. Female Boxers that are done growing up weigh approximately lbs kg and stand .Their male counterparts have between 60 and 70 lbs kg and are 23 to 25 inches cm tall. In the meantime provide quality food, regular exercise, and maintain regular veterinary check-ups to ensure their well-being. As with all other dog breeds, some adult Boxers will be smaller than the standard dimensions of the breed. On the other hand, there is a handful of those that are larger than the standard too. Genetics is the most probable cause for this. Rarely do Boxers end up being smaller than the rest due to low production of the growth hormone. Luckily growth hormone problems in Boxers are very rare and other breeds such as the Miniature Pinscher, Spitz, or Karelian Bear Dog are more prone to the condition. Growth defects in dogs can appear due to Dwarfism Achondroplasia. Minor deformities can be surgically corrected, but again with a dubious prognosis. In Conclusion Understanding the growth chart will help you understand what role nutrition, diet, and exercise plays and adjust accordingly. Getting rid of excess weight or ruling out health issues is something you and your vet can work on together. Disclaimer: This blog post does not substitute veterinary attention and does not intend to do so. I am not a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. If your dog shows any sign of illness, call your vet. Post navigation.

Other names for these dogs include Border Collie Shepherd mix and a Shollie. The mix breed will usually be athletic and agile, extremely intelligent and quick to learn commands, while displaying a protective and watchful nature. German Shepherd The breed were designed to be a working dog with an athletic physique and noble character. Some of their personality traits include loyal, confident and courageous. The German Shepherd is the second most popular breed in the United States. They need a lot of mental and physical stimulation to ensure these clever dogs behave. How big do German Shepherd Collie Mixes get? To get an idea of the size, we need to look at both the Border Collie and the German Shepherd. German Shepherds can be between 22 and 26 inches in height and 50 and 90 pounds in weight. Border Collies can range between 18 and 22 inches in height and 30 to 55 pounds in weight. So the size range for a German Shepherd Collie mix is between 18 and 26 inches in height and 30 and 90 pounds in weight. What do German Shepherd Collie Mix look like? A German Shepherd Collie Mix can have a variety of different colors. Having said that, the most common shade tends to be solid tan with patches of black. German Shepherds are usually black and tan but Border Collies have a variety of possible coat colors. Therefore, a Shollie could have any combination of black, sable, white, brown and fawn. They should be almond-shaped. Their nose will be black and their ears should be large and triangular in shape. So you can expect a German Shepherd Collie Mix to be a willing learning and eager to please their pet parents. We can say with some degree of certainty that a German Shepherd Collie Mix will be quite loyal to their dogs owners given this is a quality associated with both parents. Giving both breeds are members of the Herding Group, they could be prone to herding small children or other small pets. This is a trait that is associated with the Border Collie. While German Shepherd Collies are loyal and protective, you should never leave one of these dogs alone with a child. The same could be said for any breed of dog no matter how tall or small. These hybrid dogs have a playful nature which they can often get from their Border Collie parent. They should be sociable with other people and other pets. As a general rule, they should learn new commands within five repetitions and obey a first command 90 per cent of the time or better. They require a lot of exercise — regular walks or runs with their dog owner, trips to the dog park, games or playtime in the back yard, as well as mental stimulation. As the saying goes, a tired dog is a happy dog. They need around 12 miles of exercise every week. Are German Shepherd Collie Mix hypoallergenic? Do German Shepherd Collie Mix shed? A Shollie is usually a high shedding dog that will require brushing every day to maintain the health and quality of their coat. By doing so, pet parents will remove dead hair as well as debris. A German Shepherd Collie Mix will blow out its coat twice a year, which will be a challenging time for a dog owners with dog hair all over the home. How long does a German Shepherd Collie Mix live? German Shepherds can live between seven and 10 years. Border Collies have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. We can deduce that a German Shepherd Collie mix will have an average lifespan of around 10 to 12 years. German Shepherd Collie Mix health problems Mix breeds are generally considered healthier dogs that purebreds. However, some hybrid breeds can still be susceptible to some health problems. The price can vary between each breeder, who may value certain traits above others. Other potential costs include dog food, pet insurance, grooming, vet trips and much more. Is The Shollie For You? The special thing about these dogs is their spectacular looks, more similar to a purebred than to a designer breed. They have aspects of a German Shepherd, with beautiful coats, large and athletic bodies, and expressive eyes. The only things that betray them are the less hairy tail and the floppy ears, both inherited from the Border Collie. Most of these dogs have a tan colored coat, but you can also find black and, in some rare cases, white Shollies. Of course, that thick, long coat will need regular brushing to avoid tangles and poor skin health. The German Shepherd is a highly active breed, developed for work and activity which means they require regular physical exercise. Thus, the combination of these two breeds results in an explosion of high energy! As an owner, you need to make sure your Shollie gets the activity and physical exercise she requires. Just take a look at these beautiful dogs and how they enjoy themselves playing: And the best way to do that would be to adapt an active lifestyle yourself no, this dog is not suitable for couch potatoes like you, Josh. While being playful, Shollies also do quite well on their own, so you can leave them alone at home for short intervals without worrying about them destroying furniture or getting too lonely. So, what activities can you give a Shepherd Collie mix to keep her happy and healthy? Something as simple as giving your dog some fresh air at regular intervals throughout the day should be more than enough to keep him satisfied. How often exactly? According to doctors of veterinary medicine like Amy Moore and Charlotte Cummings, a Shollie requires at least 2 walks every day or a minimum of 2 hours of activity on the daily. Both the German Shepherd and the Border Collie are known for their affectionate nature. A Shepherd Collie loves playing with her owners and will often eagerly await the next time you pick up the ball for a fun round of fetch. Despite being naturally loving and sweet towards their owners, however, the Shollie can manifest a wary side. How can you prevent this type of behavior in your Shollie? Exposing your pup to crowded, high activity environments early on. But it will make them more capable of controlling their impulses when a guest or visitor walks into your home. Police and military forces all over the world commonly use the aid of German Shepherds for a variety of tasks that would otherwise be impossible for people to perform! Sniffing out bombs, illegal substances, and other security threats are just some of the nifty tricks that German Shepherds can be taught. Border Collies, on the other hand, are known to be some of the smartest and most trainable dogs around. This breed quickly takes a number of tasks and jobs with simple repetition. With this type of lineage, you should know that the Shepherd Collie is just as smart. This dog breed loves mental exercise and will often look for something to stimulate her ever active mind. So as her owner, you should be ready with a few cognitive puzzles, games, and tasks that will help give your dog the mental exercise that she needs. For instance, before taking him out for your next walk, think about the place you plan to visit. Instead of going for the typical trail you always follow, consider other areas with more varied smells, sounds, and sights. Something as simple as exposing your dog to new sensory experiences can give them that well-deserved dose of cognitive training. What about dogs that are frequently left at home? As much as possible, I advise you bring your dog along with you when you run errands or go out because this can also give him a chance to stretch his mental muscles. Just hide the kibble in areas of your house where your dog is free to explore, and it will keep your Shollie thoroughly entertained for hours on end. So, how do you go about teaching your Collie Shepherd Mix to alert you in case of an intruder or threat? The first step would be to teach them to stop barking on command. Once your Collie Shepherd perfects this, you can then start teaching her when barking would be acceptable behavior by simulating an intruder or threat. Ultimately, what you want to teach your dog is the ability to discern between harmless guests and potential intruders by showing them the way that threats would behave. So your Shollie should know not to bark or alert you in these instances. Watch this video for more advanced tactics on stopping people aggression in dogs. Some dogs are more predisposed to certain health problems just because of their build and lineage. Responsibly bred Shepherd Collie Mixes will live up to 15 years of healthy life with little to no incidences of disease or illness! Of course, the parent breeds do have their own health problem predispositions that can be passed on to the mix. For instance, German Shepherds are notoriously prone to hip dysplasia. Border Collies, on the other hand, are known to be commonly afflicted with epilepsy. What a Shollie really needs is an owner who can keep up with their high energy, their wit, and their affectionate nature. About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. Applies to all dog food recalls in the U. Adopting an older dog will decrease the price tag. Lancaster Puppies in Columbus, OH. Owners will have a lot on their hands when grooming this hybrid dog. It is a heavy shedder, making it hard for owners to clean up while trying to keep their coat healthy. The German Shepherd Border Collie mix sheds more often as it grows old, so owners must brush its fur daily to remove dander and dead hair. Here are some of the most recommended grooming equipment to maintain the coat of the German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie: Slicker Brush Slicker brushes are great combs to remove tangles and mats on long-haired dogs. The slicker brush can save owners time when brushing the coat of the German Shepherd Border Collie compared to regular combs. Detanglers Before using a slicker brush, owners will notice that the Border Collie German Shepherd mix has a lot of tangled hair. Dematting sprays can relax and soften the hair to make it easier for owners to untangle the knots. Owners must resort to this solution if the tangles are hard to remove despite the use of detanglers as dogs are not fond of sharp objects. Owners must avoid buying shampoo based on the odor or the low price. Owners must be aware of its coat type and skin to help them find oils and specialty ingredients that will be beneficial for the Border Collie mixed with German Shepherd. Grooming Wipes The German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie is an energetic dog that will be dirty when it finishes playing outside the house. Wet wipes are essential for dog owners that want to prevent mud and grass inside their residence. Microfiber Towel Human towels do not absorb all of the water on a dog. Because of its heavy coat, the German Shepherd Border Collie mix will likely be dripping wet despite a heavy rinsing. Microfiber towels can help remove water on a Border Collie German Shepherd cross better than human towels. The legs and hips of Border Collie German Shepherd will deteriorate as it ages. The hybrid dog will experience problems at an earlier rate depending on its activities as well. It may also be born deaf if one of its parent breeds already have hearing problems. Epilepsy The Border Collie breed is widely known for its tendency to suffer from epilepsy more than other dog breeds. The Border Collie German Shepherd mix may inherit this health problem as well. Epilepsy happens when the dog is experiencing episodic seizures. Fortunately, it is a rare disease among dogs. Degenerative Myelopathy When owners notice that the Border Collie German Shepherd mix is starting to walk funny on its back legs, it can be a symptom of Degenerative Myelopathy. This disease currently has no cure. Irresponsible breeders are the most likely reasons for the health issues of a German Shepherd mixed with a Border Collie. Owners must make sure that they are adopting a healthy puppy from a reputable breeder to avoid dealing with a sickly puppy. If the hybrid dog is exhausted from more training than usual, owners can go for 4 cups a day. Bloat and diabetes are two main health problems that can affect a Border Collie crossed with a German Shepherd as both parent breeds may also suffer from them. It is essential for owners to avoid overfeeding this hybrid dog and prevent nutritional imbalances. In such scenarios, products such as Nutra Thrive dog food supplement can be a solution to regain the proper balance of nutrients. Dog owners and lovers must also keep in mind that they need to seek food for the best large breed dry dog food instead of best dry dog food for small dogs. Whatever you do, make sure you steer clear from the worst dry dog food. Try to learn more about the difference between poor-quality and premium-quality chows by checking our best dry dog food guide! The dog food must include joint supplements because large dog breeds are prone to hip dysplasia and other joint ailments. To avoid this, give them kibble that is rich in calcium since puppyhood. Pooches that have entered their golden years will maintain their health properly only if given the right amount of the best senior dry dog food! Dog food must also contain a moderate amount of calories to avoid obesity, which is a common problem among large breeds. The dog food chosen by owners must also have large kibble to avoid letting the dog eat too quickly, which may result in life-threatening conditions like bloat. Here are a few of the most recommended large breed dog food in the US: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula The Blue Buffalo Life dog food is perfect for the German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie because it is full of ingredients rich in antioxidants like kelp, blueberries, sweet potatoes, and carrots. Deboned chicken is also its main ingredient. This brand does not have wheat, soy, or corn. Wellness Core Dog Food The nutritious proteins included in the Wellness Complete Health dog food for large breeds is beneficial for the German Shepherd crossed with Border Collie because it has all the nutrition it needs. This brand contains deboned chicken, salmon meal, and deboned whitefish, which gives the dog food a delicious flavor. It also includes flaxseed, which is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. It also provides for different probiotics for the German Shepherd Border Collie mix. Dog for Dog contains vitamins and minerals to give your Border Collie mixed with German Shepherd the nutrition it needs. This whole-grain brand also contains glucosamine, which helps keep joints healthy. Owners on a budget will find this product affordable. It also helps prevent nutrient deficiency with its vitamins and minerals. The brand also comes with glucosamine and chondroitin, which is good for joint health. Eagle Pack Natural consists only of natural ingredients with no artificial colors and preservatives. It also includes eight probiotic strains to keep the hybrid dog healthy. Pro Plan Focus Weight Management Large Breed This brand is beneficial for large dogs because it can supply them with many complex carbohydrates to sustain their energy levels. It is also helpful for the joint because of it contains glucosamine. This brand attacks specific health issues like joint problems or bloating that a German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie may cross. This brand contains joint supplements, probiotic supplements, and fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants. It is a natural and grain-free product with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It contains antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits, as well as premium proteins. This brand is a grain-free product that will give your hybrid dog enough nutrition for its daily activities and exercises. There are a plethora of good choices for them out there, but make sure to find some of the best dry dog food , for example, Wellness Core Dog Food , Dog For Dog Food , or Nutra Thrive dog food supplement. Puppies and senior dogs have different food requirements, so go through the best puppy food brands in case you own a little munchkin and best senior dry dog food for grandpa and grandma pups. A checkup with your vet will help you opt for some of these. Both of its parent breeds are also very active. This hybrid dog does not do well indoors and needs to have a lot of time running and playing with its owners. An owner of a German Shepherd crossed with Border Collie must commit their time to engage this dog in activities if they want to avoid it from becoming bored and destructive. This dog will become aggressive and timid if it does not participate in mental and physical activities. Its daily exercise requires about 60 minutes of running and playing outside of the house. If you happen to raise a Border Collie German Shepherd mix as a calm and independent dog, 2 hours of separate walks daily can keep it satisfied. Families, those leading an active life Temperament: Loyal, protective, loving, playful, energetic, smart Shollies are a hybrid of a purebred German Shepherd and a purebred Border Collie. Shollies exhibit certain personality characteristics of both of their parents, especially in terms of loyalty and intelligence. The German Shepherd has its origins in the 19th century in Germany. Though originally it was bred for herding livestock and sheep, their primary vocational track today seems to be in military and police forces. These dogs are used in many parts of the world even to this day to herd sheep. They are well-reputed as one of the most intelligent dog breeds. Stanley Coren states they are the most intelligent. He places German Shepherds in the number 3 spot. The devoted nature and intelligence of both the German Shepherd and the Border Collie, are inherited by their Shollies. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. If you check with your local humane society or animal shelter, you may find that they are caring for Shollies who are looking for a home. Be prepared for a lot of playtime and training sessions since these dogs are quite energetic. German Shepherds are well known to be used for security and police service. They can sniff out drugs and explosive devices. Border Collies as well, being the sheepdogs that they are, are also bright. They need some kind of regular mental stimulation. When you combine both of these breeds, you get the Shollie which takes after both of its parents. You cannot coop up your Shollie for too long. They need regular exercise for physical wellbeing as well as regular mental exercises for their mind. But you do have to take them to different places and expose them to sights and sounds. Try playing hide and seek or a doggy scavenger hunt. These kinds of games will be sure to encourage their alacrity of mind as well as their youthful playfulness. Are These Dogs Good for Families? But they do prefer their inner circle. They are generally cautious and protective when strangers are around and can be slow to warm up to unknown company. They do well around children in general, but you should still keep an eye on their play since they like to roughhouse. Around other dogs they can be territorial and aggressive but not out of control. Since they are playful, some naturally energetic behavior can be mistaken for fighting. German shepherds were initially bred in Germany in the 19th century and were officially recognized as a breed in .Border collies are primarily sheepdogs that were officially recognized in the British Isles in the 19th century. Both dog breeds are considered highly intelligent, trainable, and agile. This is why German shepherds have been widely adopted as working dogs and are often seen in military and police roles. Border collies frequently compete with great success in sheepdog trials and are considered among the top sporting dogs. Exactly when the Shollie emerged and precisely what breeders were trying to achieve with the new breed is unclear. But the result tends to be a relatively large and athletic dog that is highly intelligent and protective. Thanks to these traits, the Shollie makes an excellent family dog. It is important to remember that, unlike with purebred dogs, when you mix dog breeds, the results are always a bit unpredictable. Shollie Appearance You can expect Shollies to be fairly large dogs with a lean and athletic physique. According to the breed standard, German shepherds tend to measure 22 to 26 inches tall, with males generally an inch or two larger than females. Border collies are a bit smaller, measuring from 18 to 22 inches. Nevertheless, you will rarely see a Shollie that measures less than 20 inches. They typically weigh around 70 to 90 pounds. While these big dogs are gentle, their substantial size means they can misjudge their strength and could accidentally hurt children or older, more fragile individuals. Shollies can be almost any color combination of their parents, including black, brown, golden, and white, and they are almost always a mix of at least two different colors. They often have attractive mottled patterning. Border collies have a warm undercoat with a protective outer coat that tends to be longer and can be either smooth or shaggy. German shepherds also have a warm undercoat with a longer overcoat. You can expect a Shollie to have a similar double coat, probably with quite long hair. This puts them at a fairly high risk of overheating in hot temperatures. They also tend to shed a lot, and their hair can easily become matted if not brushed regularly to remove shedded hairs that have clung to their coat. Shollies look their best when they receive daily brushing. Most Shollies will have brown eyes and a face with a fairly long muzzle. They can either have the pointed ears of a German shepherd or the floppy ears of a border collie. Shollie Temperament: Athleticism Both German shepherds and border collies are working dogs bred for herding, so they are bred to be active. You can expect their Shollie offspring to have a lot of energy and need quite a bit of exercise. Shollies need a minimum of one hour of exercise per day, preferably split into two or three shorter sessions throughout the day. They will appreciate being taken to off-leash dog parks where they can run around without being restricted by the leash. In addition to this, these dogs will love to accompany their family on outdoor adventures, such as hiking trips and walks. They are agile and intelligent and will be able to look after themselves on hiking trails. Shollie Temperament: Trainability Both border collies and German shepherds are highly intelligent, and their offspring tend to inherit this characteristic. They learn quickly and are highly adaptable. Shollies can generally figure out what is needed from them quickly in new situations. Bred as training dogs, Shollies also tend to be easy to please. More independent and stubborn breeds might know what you want but still not give it to you; this is not the case with the Shollie. They can easily become bored if they do not have tasks to keep them occupied. This is why it is always a good idea to teach them tasks, even if they will be living as a family pet. They will also benefit from complex toys like puzzle games to keep them occupied when left alone. If they are left alone for too long without something to stimulate their brain, they may just find their own entertainment. This tends to be the destructive sort of chewing and digging. Shollie Temperament: Independence Shollies tend to want to be part of the family. They will quickly bond with the people they spend a lot of time with and become protective of them. They will often be on alert when other people or animals approach and can display territorial behavior if they feel threatened. They tend to have an affinity for children and enjoy playing with them, though they should always be supervised around small children. Threats to their little people, in particular, can bring out their protective instinct. Are you worried your dog is overly possessive? Watch out for these important signs. These dogs have a tendency to become anxious or depressed if they are left alone for long periods of time. They are not the type of dog you can leave alone at home for several hours while you are at work. Considering a day care service for your dog? Read our tips for choosing the best day care for your dog. When you are at home, be prepared for plenty of love and affection from your Shollie. These dogs will love to be close to you, whether that means sitting at your feet or snuggling up with you on the couch if you let them. They can live anywhere from 13 to 15 years, which is an impressive lifespan for such a large dog. But, as is the case with many large dogs, they can also suffer from joint issues, in particular hip and elbow dysplasia, which is when the joint socket becomes malformed. The best way to avoid this problem is with a healthy diet and plenty of exercise. Ensuring that their calorie intake matches their energy output is key. Overall, Shollies are among some of the healthiest dogs that you will come across. Should I Get A Shollie? Whether or not a Shollie is the right dog for you depends on a variety of different factors. Consider the following questions when determining whether or not to adopt this crossbreed. Where Do You Live? They will do better in a place with a large backyard where they can keep themselves occupied. Shollies need a lot of exercise. They need a minimum of one hour of exercise each day, preferably spread out over a number of short sessions throughout the day. Do you have the energy to walk your dog every day? Shollies are very social animals, and they can become depressed and anxious if they are forced to spend a lot of time on their own. Is there generally someone at home at your place, or is the house empty for several hours at a time when everyone goes to work? Will your dog get the companionship that they need in your house? If not, be prepared for lots of destructive behavior when your Shollie is left alone. Are You Committed To Training? Luckily, Shollies are intelligent and eager to learn, which means even new dog owners should be able to train them fairly easily. But Shollies are also working dogs, and they often need the mental stimulation of having a task to do to keep them occupied. This means training them is not just about controlling their behavior; it is also about keeping them occupied. This is why it can be useful to teach your Shollie tricks. Is this something that you will be willing to do? If not, perhaps a smaller and more passive breed is better suited to your lifestyle. Do you live somewhere that is likely to be too hot for them? There is no escaping the fact that Shollies are shedders, and dealing with dog hair is a fact of life when you have one of these dogs. If you suffer from allergies or asthma, you might want to consider a different dog. Do you have someone who can take in your Shollie when you travel? Alternatively, do you have access to a large kennel that gives them plenty of room? Your dog will suffer if they need to stay in a small cage for a few weeks while you are away. Can You Afford A Shollie? Dog ownership, regardless of the breed you choose, can be surprisingly expensive. While you may already realize that the cost of their food will add up, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Yes, Shollies are excellent dogs, as they are intelligent and trainable pups with a friendly temperament. They are high-energy dogs that need lots of exercise, love, and affection, so they are a big commitment in terms of time, but otherwise they are relatively low maintenance. Are Shollies aggressive? Any dog that has been through traumatic situations can become aggressive. So, if you are adopting an older Shollie that may have come from a difficult home, speak to the adoption agency about any behavioral issues that they might have and how to properly handle them. How much is a Shollie puppy? How much a Shollie puppy costs will depend largely on where you get them from. You may be able to find a Shollie at a local shelter, in which case you may only need to cover the administrative costs of the service. Do Shollies bark a lot? They can be trained not to bark when it is not necessary, for example, when people pass your home. If your dog starts barking a lot for no apparent reason, it can be a sign that there is something wrong health-wise. Which is better, male or female Shollies? Whether you should get a male or female Shollie depends on your priorities. Females tend to be a bit smaller, and they are also more focused on tasks if you want a working dog. Males tend to be more easygoing and less likely to engage in excessively protective behavior. The Verdict On Shollies When you are a first-time dog owner, you are often told to steer clear of the more athletic dog breeds, as they tend to be a handful and need an experienced hand. But if you are looking for a pup to accompany you on all of your adventures, this can be disappointing. If the above sounds like you, then a Shollie, a border collie and German shepherd mix, might be the right pup for you! Shollies are very energetic and athletic dogs that will quickly become part of the family. You will probably want to take them with you on all of your weekend adventures. What you do need, however, is the time and space in your home to take on this boisterous new member of the family. Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist.

Alice Mischievous Bundle of Fun Alice is one of our mama dogs. She lives in a guardian home and is such a joy. Alice has a sweet nature about her that just draws people in. She is an excellent Mother. Her fall breeding will be her retirement litter so she can enjoy her time left in Alaska before she PCSs with her Guardian home. Zima Gentle old soul Zima girl is our import from Ukraine. Zima is kind gentle and a real honey! She loves children and car rides. Zima is fully health tested and currently lives with a guardian home. Pending all her health clearances Piper will hopefully make a great mother to some Hufflepuppies in the future. About Annabel Matwijow Reputable Breeder We have been breeding Golden Retrievers since , what started out as an accidental pet pregnancy turned into a fulfilling and life-changing adventure. Our main priority is ensuring the health and well-being of all our puppies from birth until they leave with their forever family - and beyond! We strive to be a forever resource for our extended golden family. We are here to help our owners achieve their goals with their new furry family members. Contact Why chose Hufflepup Goldens? We are thrilled so many people have come to Hufflepup Goldens to find their perfect new furry family member. Read below to see what some of our puppy owners are saying about us. If you have an experience to share, please let us know. We love receiving feedback. I had decided that if I were to get another dog I wanted to get a Golden Retriever. Great communication with the breeder, Annabel. My Kingsley is now 10 months old, she is so smart, lovable and a blessing all around. Such a great temperament, easy to train and a great companion! I now wonder what I ever did without her! Thank you Hufflepups! Kingsley A good friend of mine had a dog named bubba who I instantly fell in love with. His mannerisms and his loving and smiley personality made everyone who met bubba want a bubba. I asked her where she got him and she then told me Hufflepup Goldens out of wasilla, Alaska. I immediately contacted them and spoke with Annabel who is the breeder. From the moment I first spoke to her to picking up my own good boy Rexx it was nothing but smooth and she constantly kept me as well as the other potential owners in the loop on the progress of the moms pregnancy,the birth of the Goldens, the vet appointments, kennel training, potty training, to picking up the Goldens to take them to their forever home. Annabel is nothing but friendly and extremely helpful through everything as well as keeping up with how they are doing after they go to their forever home. Questions on food or other helpful information she has never had a problem with guiding me through things to make sure Rexx is a healthy happy boy! Such a well tempered, and loving dog. He is very healthy and always very happy. Anytime someone meets Rexx they instantly fall in love with him. He is thee most amazing addition to my family. Rexx is very good with everybody with all ages, as well other dogs of all breeds. He is extremely gentle and loving with our one and a half year old. It takes everything to be patient on the time my significant other will let me have another lol. That was until my mom got Kingsley from Annabel. I helped coparent her and watched her when my mom was gone. Her temperament and unconditional love were amazing! That was then I decided that if I got a dog, it would be from Hufflepup goldens. He learned his name and to sit in a day! I recommend her to everyone I meet. The whole process of getting her was above and beyond. Communication was timely and they kept us in the loop through out the process with regular updates. Puppies also get introduced to puppy culture which is a plus. Our pup received a vet check before we picked her to make sure she was healthy and ready to go home to us. I have two puppies from different litters from them and they are the perfect dogs for us. They are the ideal family dog in the fact that they are gentle, well behaved with some training that they pick up quickly, and still playful. They are just as beautiful and perfect as their siblings. You cannot go wrong with a puppy from Hufflepup! From proper genetic testing of the parents to conditioning the puppies to new surroundings and animals, I knew we were making the right choice and still stand by that choice today. I will always be grateful for the quality of breeding and friendliness of Hufflepup Goldens. You can tell they truly care about the long term success and health of their litters. Our girl Harper is the smartest, most well-behaved and beautiful companion we could have asked for. I highly recommend them to anyone I know looking for a thorough and trustworthy Golden breeder! We are so happy we found Hufflepup Goldens. She was very responsive and worked with us as we were military stationed at Eielson AFB. She always sent pictures of all the pups, kept us updated each week and let us do visits until we were able to pick up our new four legged family member. When the day comes to get another golden I will definitely use her again regardless of where the military sends us. To anyone looking for a Golden I highly recommend Hufflepup Goldens! Bentley Our young kids begged almost daily for another dog after ours cross the Rainbow Bridge several years ago in another state. Being military and moving a lot we promised our kids we would get another once my husband retired. Growing up I had a Golden Retriever and he was an amazing dog. I knew a Golden would make an excellent addition to our family and would be a great companion for our kids. Knowing Alaska was in our future as our forever home I started a lot of research on reputable breeders and found that Annabel and Hufflepup Goldens was only one of a couple that were repeatedly highly recommended for Golden Retrievers due to her standards and the health of her dogs. I contacted her in early and had a great phone conversation where she answered all of my questions. Our kids waited five years for a puppy and almost two weeks ago we finally brought our sweet boy home. Brody is almost 10 weeks old and already has a sweet, comforting, playful personality. You cannot go wrong here! Tobias is only 18 months old and he has the very best temperament and is graduating from his service dog training program very soon. Annabel does an incredible job giving her puppies the very best foundation to build on! Tobias is a confident, even-tempered and attentive puppy who has not only learned his jobs with me, but also is just an amazing family pet on his down time. Tobias runs along side my horse when I go for rides, he goes to work with me and he sleeps next to me. I get compliments on how handsome he is and how amazing his temperament is pretty much everywhere I go. If you are wanting a dog with a good foundation, Annabel is hands-down the very best Breeder with the sweetest dogs! My story started when a friend turned me on to Hufflepup Goldens on Facebook. I contacted Annabel right away and put down a deposit. Annabel was such a joy to work with, very communicative, and I could tell she loves doing this and loves those puppies! We have enjoyed this journey so much that our daughter and family had to have a Hufflepup too - and to boot, her 9 week old pup, Lilly, is Bella's sister! Puppy Culture is wonderful and because of the puppies start from the love of Annabel and family using Puppy Culture, Bella has been easy to train and is a pleaser. Part of this is because of Annabel's expertise and the rest goes to the smarts of Golden Retrievers! I highly recommend Annabel and Hufflepup Goldens as your next breeder! Bella "I found Hufflepuff Goldens through some friends of mine who have a golden from Annabel when I was looking to add a second puppy to my family. My little Jedi is perfect. He plays so well with his sister. I loved the puppy culture training. He was easy to crate and potty train. He's a snuggler and loves everyone. It's apparent that Hufflepuff puppies are loved and part of the family. I'm not sure how Annabel does it, but the pups and their pens were always immaculate when visiting, and come pick day you have plenty of time, although my little Jedi picked me. If you are looking to add a golden to your family I can't recommend Hufflepuff and Annabel enough. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Alaska Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Alaska? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Alaska? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved.

As a result of its genetic makeup as a cross between two dog breeds and pups may have an ultimate size that is difficult to predict. These puppies are enormous and develop quickly, so you may be wondering how much to feed a Goldendoodle puppy. What is the recommended daily amount of food for a Goldendoodle puppy? Most Goldendoodle pups need to be fed anywhere from 2 to 4 times a day, with each feeding consisting of around a third of a cup to as much as four cups of food, although this varies greatly with age and size, and type. Puppies develop rapidly, thus their dietary needs, including the amount and frequency of their meals, evolve with them. Keep in mind that this is not a question with a universally correct answer. Also remember that Miniature, medium, and standard Goldendoodles will have different feeding needs. Goldendoodle Puppy Feeding Chart There is a lot of nuance involved in feeding a Goldendoodle puppy since their nutritional requirements change with their age, size, and degree of activity. To do so, just divide the weight in pounds by 2. With this method, you may roughly estimate how many calories your Goldendoodle need each day when at rest. Keep in mind that this is only a guideline. They need to be with the mother and the rest of the litter, putting on weight healthily. You should count on them sleeping for the most of the day and moving just for brief periods. The best way to get them adjusted to the new routine is to feed them three to four little meals a day, gradually increasing the quantity and lowering the wetness. You should begin by giving them a quarter to a half cup of a soft, moistened puppy chow every meal. You should modify the dose according to their weight and hunger levels. Reduce the quantity of food at first, and then gradually increase it to three or four small meals per day of dry puppy food. You can bank on them being a lot more self-reliant and inquisitive. Make the necessary adjustments according to their weight and degree of exercise. Give them lots of chances to play and interact with others, and take them on short walks. Goldendoodles are prone to becoming overweight, so watch how much food you give them. Choose a suitable quantity by considering their weight and degree of physical activity and breed size. Keep close track of their weight to determine the appropriate dosage. Make sure they have much to do physically and mentally to keep them from becoming bored and acting out. Learn the basics and begin interacting with others. Keep an eye out for symptoms of separation anxiety in your Goldendoodle. This depends on breed size. Keep up with their education and socializing, and give them plenty of chances to play and exercise. Pay attention to how active they are feeling and feed them appropriately. Never stop encouraging physical activity, intellectual challenge, and social interaction. Make necessary adjustments based on their weight gain or loss. To maintain their health and happiness, provide them frequent opportunities for physical activity, fun, and intellectual challenge. Inspect your Goldendoodle often for indications of joint pain. Taking them to the vet on a regular basis is crucial to maintaining their health. Understanding Goldendoodle Puppy Nutritional Needs Puppies of the goldendoodle breed should be fed a healthy, well-rounded diet to ensure their optimal development and growth. Depending on their age, height, and amount of activity, a Goldendoodle puppy typically needs to 1, calories per day. Keep in mind that there are three different sized Goldendoodles. The smaller dogs would thus consume much less food. They need to eat a balanced diet of nutritious proteins, fats, and complex carbs. Calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for the healthy development of Goldendoodle pups. Healthy growth of bones, the immune system, and the brain all depend on these nutrients. To avoid obesity and encourage good digestion, pups should be given three to four modest meals each day rather than one or two big ones. This aids in controlling portion sizes and facilitating proper digestion. Because of their small stomachs, puppies need regular feedings to keep them energized and healthy. As your puppy gets older, you may cut down on the frequency of feedings and boost the amount of each meal. Kibble may aid in dental hygiene by scraping plaque and tartar off the teeth while the puppy eats. Picky eaters could be more enticed by wet food, and pups with dental issues or missing teeth might find it simpler to digest. In addition, you should make sure that the food is formulated for pups and prepared with high-quality components. Switching From Puppy Food To Adult Food Depending on their size and breed, you should transition your Goldendoodle puppy from puppy food to adult food between the ages of 12 and 18 months. You should start with a little quantity of adult food and puppy food mixed together, and then gradually increase the amount of adult food while lowering the amount of puppy food. This ease of adjustment may reduce digestive issues. When a Goldendoodle puppy stops eating, the first thing to do is to rule out any serious health problems. Feeding smaller meals more often, warming the food with water or chicken broth, or trying a new brand or taste of food are all options. Overfeeding, obesity, and gastrointestinal issues are all possible outcomes of free-feeding a Goldendoodle puppy. Because of their tiny stomachs, puppies need frequent feedings to keep them energized and promote their healthy development. Picky eating may be avoided and good eating habits can be established with a regular meal plan. Instead of two big meals, Goldendoodle pups should be fed three or four smaller meals a day. If you decide to free-feed your Goldendoodle puppy, keep careful tabs on how much they are eating so that you may alter their portions as they grow. Medium breed dogs require a high-energy diet throughout their brief growing phase. Prebiotic components improve for good digestion Unique kibble design 2. For a well-balanced diet, including more natural meats dogs love and healthy grains. This puppy food is designed to build strong, lean muscles and improve brain and eye health with taurine. DHA and ARA promote healthy growth and development, while LifeSource Bits provide a perfect combination of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to boost the immune system. It also lacks maize, soy, wheat, animal byproducts, and artificial tastes. Antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, for immune system No grains, maize, wheat, soy, meat by-products, or artificial flavors Taurine in the for eyes and brains. Introducing our tailored nutrition for medium breed puppies — a food designed to ensure your puppy receives the right amount of nutrients during their growth period. While free-feeding is generally okay when feeding your puppy, it is wise to introduce a feeding routine at around 13 weeks old. As for adult Goldendoodles, you can feed them one meal in the morning and another in the evening. This should be enough to make them feel full throughout the day. Senior Goldendoodles, on the other hand, can be fed once in the morning or once at night. If your dog still prefers two meals, you can feed them similarly as you would an adult. While on the topic of optimal feeding time, it is also important to know when to give treats to your dog. Usually, it is best to give treats to your pooch in between meals — not right before and not right after. Preferably, you should only use treats to reward your dog. In turn, this will also affect their potty schedule and interfere with the balanced diet they should be getting. Always remember that you can tweak these optimal feeding times so that it fits your lifestyle better. However, it is best to feed them around the same time each day. They love any food and can eat almost anything you serve. However, it is still essential to know the best foods to give your Goldendoodle. Providing the best kinds of food for your dog is not only good for their health, but it also helps preserve some of their best features, such as their hypoallergenic trait and calm disposition. Wet food is easier to chew than dry food and is suitable for dogs with weak teeth, senior dogs, sick dogs, or dehydrated dogs. Wet food is arguably the best puppy food. Its flavor and softness are excellent for developing teeth. Dry Food: Dry food or kibble is the most convenient food to serve your dog. In addition, dry food is also one of the best food choices for a Goldendoodle as it is excellent for their dental health. Dry food prevents tartar buildup and gum disease and promotes stronger teeth. Kibble is best for adult Goldendoodles as their teeth are as strong as it gets. Some ingredients you should look for when choosing kibble are chicken fat, flaxseed, omega-3, and meat protein. There are also grain-free options if your dog prefers those. This consists of raw meat, bones, fish meal, and a mix of fruits and vegetables. Feeding your Goldendoodle a raw diet reduces the use of commercial dog foods that have added preservatives and unhealthy processed foods. BARF diet has been proven to bring health benefits such as healthier and shinier skin and coat, good dental health, fewer ear infections, and less odor in Goldendoodles. Plus, Goldendoodles like the taste of raw food! Homemade Diet: A homemade diet is very much acceptable for Goldendoodles. They can thrive with this diet as long as proper nutrients are provided. Make sure to supply them with the six key nutrients a dog needs — protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and water. Preparing a homemade meal is also much cheaper. Moreover, it also gives you more control over what your dog consumes. Likewise, a Goldendoodle with an underlying health condition might be better off with a homemade diet. In addition, some Goldendoodles may benefit from specific kinds of foods or supplements that are tailored for their coat color. To learn more about Goldendoodle coat colors, read our comprehensive guide on the topic. On some occasions, the generation of a Goldendoodle can also affect the best diet for it. In conclusion, the best dog food is always on a case-to-case basis. Consult a vet if you want to be sure! These dogs are prone to bloating and often have different allergies to food. Certain foods cause pain, vomiting, and diarrhea in these dogs. Some of the most dangerous foods for your Goldendoodle are grapes, raisins, and prunes. These three foods contain an unknown toxic substance that can trigger major problems such as choking and kidney failure. Cherries are also notorious for your Goldendoodle. Its pits, seeds, stems, and leaves contain cyanide , a poisonous substance that can cause an upset stomach. Soda is not just unhealthy for humans but for dogs as well. The carbonation and sugar levels of soda can be hard for dogs to handle. It can cause dehydration, gastrointestinal problems, excessive flatulence , and diarrhea. Moreover, as we all know, chocolate is toxic to Goldendoodles. It contains a xanthine compound known as theobromine , which dogs cannot digest and metabolize. Needless to say, keep your Goldendoodle away from chocolate! But if your dog happens to consume chocolate and shows signs like vomiting, diarrhea, excessive urination, and increased heart rate, visit the nearest vet immediately. Onions and garlic should also be kept away from Goldendoodle because these contain a thiosulphate compound. This compound may cause discomfort, diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain. Furthermore, any food with a high level of sugar and salt is bad for your Goldendoodle. Salty foods will dehydrate your dog, and excessively sweet foods can cause diabetes. It is a good habit to also check the sugar and salt levels of any food you give to your Goldendoodles. Other harmful foods are macadamia nuts, walnuts, raw or undercooked food, coffee, dairy products, citrus fruits, and avocados. Luckily for you, Goldendoodles are generally not picky eaters. The ideal time for the transitioning period is around 10 days. Do this until your Goldendoodle is comfortable enough to try completely new food. Refer to the table below for a more detailed breakdown of transitioning your dog to a new food: Day. The Proper Care and Feeding of Goldendoodles Feb 14 Written By Skye Parker There are a lot of different factors you should consider when you are thinking about the right food and the right amount. Like their age, how much they weigh, or what to do if your Goldendoodle is a picky eater. We will talk about the different ages of puppies and how much to feed them as they grow older. We will talk about the different options for dog food and what you should get and avoid. It's also essential to think about what to do in different situations where you have a picky eater or what to do if they ever get sick. When your Goldendoodle is younger, you will need to feed them more often than when they get older; they will eat less at a time too. Anytime you are transitioning your puppies' feeding options, whether it's giving them more, switching brands, or from puppy food to dog food, you will want to do it gradually. For a while, you will mix the two. If you make a sudden change in their diet, it could cause stomach problems for your Goldendoodle. Transitioning will usually take about days. Standard Goldendoodles will need cups per day. This is an excellent guide to follow; however, all dogs are different, and if your dog ever acts hungry or aggressive constantly, this is a sign that you should increase their eating portion. If you can ever see your Goldendoodles' ribs, that is a strong indication that they need more food. Most dogs will stop eating when they get full, but it is still better to have set feeding times throughout the day rather than having one big meal available at all times. Foods That are Unhealthy or Poisonous for Goldendoodles There are a few foods that we may eat regularly that aren't healthy for Goldendoodles. This is very important to know of the foods to be mindful of. Grapes or raisins: These can cause your Goldendoodle to choke, and they will have a hard time digesting them. This also includes prunes. Dairy Products: When dairy products are given in large amounts, it can mess with the digestive system. Dogs' bodies are not used to processing dairy, which could cause problems if they have a lot. However, even though it's best to avoid this, a small amount is acceptable. Cherries: This might seem like a weird thing to be on this list, but they are toxic to Goldendoodles as well as other dogs. Any foods that are raw or uncooked could cause salmonella and other diseases. You should also avoid raw eggs and undercooked meat. Soda: This isn't the best for humans and even worse for dogs. They don't do very well with carbonation or high amounts of sugar. Chocolate: This is the most commonly known food that is toxic for all dogs, and it is accurate. Whether dark or light chocolate, dogs don't react well to this food. Coffee, avocado, onions, and garlic are all foods Goldendoodles should avoid eating. Any salty foods are not healthy for your dog either. It can cause them to get sick and dehydrated. Foods with a lot of sugar or even constantly providing food containing sugar can cause your dog to get diabetes. You don't have to change your Goldendoodles diet when they get sick, but most vets will recommend switching to white rice and chicken for their meals when they're ill or after surgery. When you are preparing this meal for your pup, you will want to give them only white meat with all bones and fat removed. As for the rice, people will usually say brown rice is healthier because it has more grains, but white rice is easier for them to digest when they are sick. Boil the chicken like you usually would until cooked. Then drain the water, pull off all bones and fat, and cut the chicken into bite-size pieces. As for the rice, you can boil it like you usually would or use the chicken broth from the chicken earlier. However you decide to prepare it, do not use any seasonings; these can be toxic for your puppy and worsen the condition. When deciding how much to give your puppy, use a one-to-two ratio. You will also want to check the temperature of the food to ensure they don't get burnt. Feeding a Picky Goldendoodle If your Goldendoodle is a picky eater, the solution is usually a quick fix. The common reasons for being picky could be that they are fed too often, they lack physical activities, receiving too many treats, or if your dog is stressed or sick. These are reasonable causes for a picky eater; they also have easy fixes. If you follow all of the guidelines brought out in this article, you will be sure to have a healthy and happy Goldendoodle. Their diet affects their behavior a lot more than some people may realize. If you are interested in adopting a Goldendoodle, you can visit our available puppies page. Obese puppies develop an improved risk for many types of cancer, diabetes mellitus, heart disease, and hypertension. Rickets: Rickets is a rare disorder of young, growing animals that causes soft and distorted bones. It is generally caused by poor phosphorus or vitamin D in the diet. More infrequently, calcium shortage is to blame. A quantity of calcium has caused rickets-like signs in some dogs. Allergies: In the dog, the most ordinary symptom associated with allergies is itching of the skin, either localized in one area or generalized all over the body. Occasionally, there may be watery release from the eyes or nose. How much should I feed my Goldendoodle puppy? Feel about its ribs — you should be capable to feel the ribs but not seeing them separately when simply glancing at them. Also, do your best to observe the advice in the chart above. You can also ask the breeder who sold you the puppy to see if they have any suggestions. Yet, this does not suggest that you should have big amounts of food willingly available to your dog all of the time. Since puppies grow fast, the importance and frequency of meals change as they develop. Summary Feeding a Goldendoodle can both be difficult and comfortable at the same time. Since they are not choosy eaters, these dogs can adapt well to new meals. The downside is that the Goldendoodle manages to have an acute stomach. This means you have to be alert about what you give your puppy. Remember, satisfied dogs are the healthful ones. This means you should avoid leaving food out for them at all times, as they can eat too much and become sick or even develop bloat, which can quickly become deadly. How To Feed Your Goldendoodle Puppy This may seem like a silly question, but it is relevant because the answer is actually not that obvious! You should be able to cover the food with your hand without your puppy making too much fuss. Allow them to start eating. While they are eating, stroke them and pet their heads. This is an excellent time to brush them, too, as they are occupied and not scrambling around. This is an important practice to get them used to your presence and prevent food guarding and aggression. Considering how large Goldendoodles can get even when they are puppies, this is an important part of their training. Next, give your puppy about 15 minutes to eat their food. During this time, they will either eat all of their food or eat until they are full and lose interest in the rest. After 15 minutes is up, remove any of the uneaten food left behind. If your puppy is still eating, then let them finish their food. The number of options can be overwhelming! Hopefully, I can whittle it down for you and make the decision a little easier. The American Kennel Club recommends using premium or high-end puppy food as they typically have a higher nutritional density and are more consistent, whereas cheaper foods can be inconsistent and contain filler products. Puppies have higher nutritional needs than adult dogs. Their food should be more nutrient-dense because they can only eat a little bit at a time. Their food will generally be more expensive owing to its quality; however, it should last you longer than a bag of adult food. Just like with adult dog food, you can choose between kibble or solid food, pouches or semi-moist food, or canned soft food. Top Puppy Food Suggestions For Goldendoodles While there are innumerable options out there for you to choose from, I have carefully narrowed them down to three products that I highly recommend for your Goldendoodle. Your Goldendoodle will grow to be very large and be prone to joint problems, so it is a wise decision to start them on puppy food that will support their growth through the time when they are doing most of it. Here are my three favorite Goldendoodle puppy foods and the features I love about them: Product. One of the most popular dog breeds is the Miniature Goldendoodle. One of the most crucial aspects that affect your Mini Goldendoodle's overall health is its diet. As a pet owner, you want to ensure that he or she remains healthy and content. Let's talk about how much food a Mini Goldendoodle should eat to maintain a normal weight and get all the nutrients they require. Consider the following when choosing how much to feed your Mini Goldendoodle: Age Compared to adult dogs, puppies have distinct dietary demands. Puppies of the Mini Goldendoodle breed need to eat more often than adult dogs do. They also need a particular kind of dog food specially formulated to encourage their development. Weight The amount of food a Mini Goldendoodle needs will depend on its weight. Obesity and other health issues can result from overeating. Exercise Level More energetic dogs need more calories than less active dogs do, just like us humans. Health Issues Your pets diet may need to vary depending on certain medical concerns. You might need to convert to a specific diet catered to your dog's needs, for instance, if they have food allergies or sensitivities. Recommended Feeding Amounts Your Mini Goldendoodle's calorie needs will vary over time according to their age, weight, and degree of activity. The following are some general guidelines, tips, and tricks: Puppies Mini Goldendoodle pups require more frequent feedings than adult dogs do. This is actually true of most if not all breeds. You can start giving your puppy two meals a day after the first six months. In order to help their digestion, senior dogs may need food that is lower in calories and higher in fiber. The easiest way to decide on the right food quantities for your aging Mini Goldendoodle is to speak with your veterinarian. It is important to remember that these are only broad recommendations and that your Miniature Goldendoodle's nutritional requirements may shift depending on their particular requirements. It's advisable to keep an eye on your dog's weight and modify their food schedule as necessary. Learn more about Mini Goldendoodles:.

Some Final Words As you may already know, it is all about genetics. Even in the animal kingdom the birth of a puppy, what they look like, and their breed is all dictated by genetics. Black human parents in Africa have been known to give birth to albino children. It is not a rare event and the same goes for Labradors. Dark-colored parents can give birth to Yellow or light-colored puppies. However, for white and yellow labs, they may not give birth to black puppies. The reason for this is that they do not have the gene that produces the black color in their offspring. If the gene is there, by some miracle, then yes, they can have black and even brown puppies. But that is the only way for white and yellow labs to have darker-colored pups. You can mix the parents and that would be one way to get the right gene to produce the black color. Did your puppy start out as a white lab, only to turn yellow later? Yes, they can. It all depends on the genes that the two black parents carry. The gene for the black color is B and the gene for the brown color is b. If the genetic code of the parents is BB then they can only have black puppies. If it is Bb or bb, then there is a chance for brown puppies. If one of the parents has the E gene, then it is possible for the parents to produce yellow puppies. Then there is the ee gene. This is the one that is needed for black parents to produce white puppies. The color of the puppy you get will depend on what genes the parents have and there is no real way to guess which ones they have until the puppies are born. This is a very simplified explanation as there are more details involved in this breeding process. What do you know about White Labrador Retrievers? You get two wonderful parents that produce a very unique set of puppies. In reality, the color of the coats will not matter as Labradors are capable of producing puppies with different colors. The color of the puppies you see will depend on the type of genes the parents have. A black dog could have a BB gene or BE gene while the white dog should have an ee gene. Those genes can combine and produce some colorful results. There may be a red or silver lab, a yellow, brown, or black lab in the litter. This has happened before as there have been litters with just about every possible Labrador color in it. As long as they are healthy, all colors of the Labrador will have all the characteristics of the normal black, yellow and brown labs everyone is familiar with seeing. Are White Labradors Good? Click here to learn more. The most common result will be with yellow labs. They on carry the E or e gene and not the B or b gene in most cases. When you mate two yellow labs with the EE or Ee gene, etc. These parents do not carry any genes that would produce darker puppies. The same goes for the brown and black Labradors. If the latter only has the BB gene, they can only produce black puppies. The brown Labrador parent needs to have the b gene to produce more brown puppies but there is a possibility that they will produce black puppies as well if they have the Bb gene. When you start mixing those genes, that is when you start to see litters with a variety of colors including red fox, white, and silver. Some Final Words To get the color of Labrador puppy you want, you need to make sure the parents have the genes to produce that color. Then not everything is certain that your preferred color will show up. When it comes to breeding, it is all biology and genetics. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please note: We are not veterinarians and you use our advice at your own discretion. We always recommend that you consult your veterinarian whenever you have health-related conditions your furbaby is facing. With that in mind, as pet parents ourselves, we wish nothing but the best for your pet and their healthy and happy lives. Among the three colors of Labrador Retrievers, black, yellow, and chocolate, black Lab pups are the most popular in both the U. Because black Lab pups are so popular, many people decide to get one, and head for a pet store or answer a classified ad. One Small Problem One small problem with hunting black and white lab puppies is that there is not much information about them. The store is, after all, selling them as such, and why would they do that if the puppies were not purebred? You scan the book rack at the pet store, and find nothing. You go to a nearby bookstore in the same mall, and look at books on Labrador Retrievers. Black and white Lab puppies in info given by store clerks or breeders are Lab pups of mixed breed. They may look much like a Lab pup, but any puppy with more than a little white spot on the chest is not a purebred Labrador Retriever. Consider the standard for Black Labradors. Black Lab puppies must be black from head to tail. There should be no brindle markings, no streaks or flecks of different colors. The same standard applies to chocolate Labs and yellow Labs. A true Labrador Retriever is never black and white. Just A Pet If you just want a Lab pup as a pet, and do not care about its bloodlines, a little black and white, part Lab may be just what you want. Lab health and care Labradors can have white marks on their chest, feet, and tail. Although it may prevent your pup from registering as a show dog. Do you have a black Lab with a white chest? Click the links above to jump straight to a section that interests you. Or, keep reading to find out everything about black Labs with white chests! The Labrador breed coat color is the result of gene interaction, and the presence of certain alleles. We will look into the genetics of coat color in more detail a little later. This old breed had a thick black coat. In appearance, it is similar to the modern Lab, and the modern Border Collie breed! This is because it had an abundance of white markings amongst its darker fur, predominantly on its chest, face, and feet. In fact, initially, white markings on black Labs were more common than the other fur colors, chocolate and yellow. Until all Labs were black, but some had white markings. You might be thinking, does this mean I have a mixed breed? Not necessarily! Mixed breed puppies will inherit random characteristics from either parents. But, purebred Labs can have white markings too. Even yellow Labs! White markings on yellow Labs are just a little harder to see. Labradors with these white markings on their fur are often called mismarked Labs. But, because this marking was present in original Labrador ancestors, they are also possible in modern purebred Labs. Is My Lab Healthy? If you have a black Lab with white chest markings, you might wonder if there is something wrong with your puppy. Is it healthy? They will be just as healthy as any other Labrador puppy! We will look in more depth at Labrador health a little later on. The only difference between a mismarked, black and white Lab, and a standard colored one is your ability to show them. So, a black Lab with white chest markings may not be right for you if you only want a dog to show it. But, white markings on a working Lab or family companion are absolutely fine. But, there are actually lots of other markings that are common on Labs! Black and Tan Markings Some Labs have white markings, but others can have black and tan markings! This is pretty rare. But these puppies can have tan points above their eyes and on their ears and muzzle. Some people think this trait is the result of early cross-breeding with Gordon Setters. Brindling Brindling is a distinct pattern where brown fur has flecks of black and red throughout. This mark has a really interesting history! Many people believe that dogs with this mark are descendants of the first dual champion dog, called Banchory Bolo. Even if puppies are born with this mark, it may fade over time. Or become covered in black hairs. But, like the Bolo mark, this can also be covered by fur as your puppy grows up. Mosaic Labrador A Mosaic Lab will have patches of yellow and black. These are perhaps the most unusual markings! Lab puppies will come in one of the three:.

One practical difference between curly and wavy poodle fur involves dog show competition. If your mature poodle's hair tends to waves rather than outright curls, you can't compete in conformation breed classes. Poodle Coat Standard The American Kennel Club, the governing body of canine breed competitions, states that the poodle's coat should be curly. It adds that the curly coat is dense throughout the body and of "naturally harsh texture. The cords are shorter on the tail puff and legs, and longer on the trunk or neck. The standard does not mention a wavy coat. Puppy Coats Poodle puppies have wavy coats, which are also softer than that of the adult dog. While the coat changes over time, how long it takes depends on the size of the poodle. In toy and miniature poodles, the wavy coat starts changing into a curly coat at approximately 9 months of age, and takes about 9 months to completely transition. By the time your smaller poodle reaches the age of a year-and-a-half, his curly coat should be complete. For standard poodles, the change in coat type begins between the ages of 9 to 16 months, but the entire transition takes just about three months to complete. By the age of 19 months -- approximately the same age as his smaller cousins -- the standard poodle sports an entirely curly coat. Poodle Mixes Because they don't shed and are believed to be hypoallergenic, poodles are often crossed with other dog breeds. The results include the cockapoo -- poodle and cocker spaniel; schnoodle -- poodle and schnauzer; Labradoodle poodle and Labrador retriever and many more. Crossing dogs with dissimilar hair coats is always a gamble, because you could end up with a shedding, non-hypoallergenic canine that only faintly resembles a poodle. One of the older crosses, the cockapoo, tends to breed true, although many of these hybrid dogs have wavy rather than curly hair. A good breeder can tell you what type of coat a cockapoo puppy is likely to have when the pup is still quite young. Poodle Grooming All poodles require regular grooming and clipping. Without this basic maintenance, they turn into a matted mess. Poodles whose curly coats haven't yet come in can sport a "puppy" clip, which is also an easy maintenance style for owners of older poodles who don't compete in the show ring. With a puppy clip, the tail base, feet, face and throat are shaved. Show dogs might appear in a continental, English saddle or sporting clip, each of which has strict rules about what areas of the body are shaved. If you have a poodle mix with a wavy coat, or a poodle still in his puppy coat phase, you can opt for a full coat, but that requires extensive grooming. A simpler option is the "teddy bear" clip, which just needs weekly brushing. Share via Email Poodles are widely recognized for their iconic curly coats, which contribute to their unique and elegant appearance. However, not all poodles possess these distinct curls. In this article, we delve into the intriguing world of poodle fur and explore the reasons behind why certain poodles have straight hair instead of the expected curls. The Diversity of Poodle Coats When we think of poodles, we often envision those adorable, curly-haired canines strutting their stuff in the show ring. But did you know that poodle coats can vary significantly? The breed standard classifies poodle coats into three distinct types: curly, corded, and wavy. These straight-haired poodles, though less common, still possess the same lovable traits and intelligence that poodles are known for. Genetic Factors at Play To understand why some poodles have straight hair, we must consider genetics. However, not all poodles inherit two copies of this gene. Puppies that inherit only one copy or lack the curl gene altogether may develop straight hair instead of curls. The inheritance pattern is complex, and various factors can influence the expression of the curl gene, leading to a diverse range of coat textures within the poodle breed. Curly hair is not present in newborn poodle puppies. During this time, the coat transitions from the soft, fluffy puppy fur to the more mature adult coat. The curls gradually form as the new hair grows in, and it may take several months for the curls to fully develop. While straight hair may not be the norm for poodles, it is a natural and valid variation within the breed. Genetic factors, as well as external influences, contribute to the presence of straight hair in certain poodles. So, whether your poodle has straight hair, long straight hair, or the expected curly coat, embrace their unique beauty. FAQ Can poodles have long straight hair? Yes, poodles can have long straight hair. While the breed is commonly known for its curly coats, some poodles exhibit straight hair as a natural variation. These straight-haired poodles may have long flowing locks that differ from the typical curly appearance. Poodles typically start developing their curls when their adult coat grows in, which usually happens around six to eight months of age. As the soft puppy fur is replaced by the mature adult coat, the curls gradually form. Some may have more defined curls earlier, while others may take longer for their curls to fully develop. When does poodle hair transition from straight to curly? The presence of straight or curly hair in poodles is primarily determined by their genetics. What is the best food for my poodle? What is the best food for your dog? The three foods that are super healthy and that almost every dog loves, even the pickiest dogs, are: 1. There are a number of fresh frozen dog foods available on the market and I tested them all. You can see the fresh frozen food test here. Toy poodles, miniature poodles, and standard poodles get their curls at around 9 months old. There is a slight difference with the amount of time the adult coat takes to grow in, or transition period between standard, miniature, and toy poodles. Poodles going through this transition period can look a bit ragged and patchy and will need to be brushed regularly so their new coat does not matt and tangle. Standard poodles tend to their full curly adult coat within 3 months of the transition from puppy fur to adult fur beginning. Whereas when the transition starts for miniature and toy breeds it can take around 9 months of gradual change. Why do poodle puppies have a different coat to adults? Puppies poodles included have a fluffier, downy, single-layer coat when they are born. This is to help them keep warm as a fluffier coat means more warm air trapped close to the skin and better insulation. Most puppies start to shed their puppy coat when they are around 6 months old and most dog breeds go on to grow a new coat with two layers of fur a fluffy undercoat and a smoother outercoat. However, at this point poodles do something different from other dog breeds, and instead of growing a double coat, they grow one single coat of curly fur… Sometimes toy poodles, miniature poodles, and standard poodles will change color slightly at this age, light apricot or cream-colored poodle puppies will sometimes turn white or cream. This is normal and natural, though your poodle may look a little patchy during this transition… Why is poodle hair different? Most other dog breeds have two layers of fur, a short warm undercoat, and a smoother top coat. Poodle fur needs to be trimmed and brushed regularly, as the curls prevent most hair loss and means fur can get matted and very long if not cared for properly. Toy poodles, miniature poodles, and standard poodles are thought to be hypo-allergenic- meaning people who are usually allergic to dogs tend to show fewer allergy symptoms around poodles. Having said that, a small number of people are still allergic to poodles so this hypoallergenic label needs to be taken with a pinch of salt. The reason why poodles are thought to be hypoallergenic is because the tightly curled coat tends to trap most hair that has fallen out and dead skin. Most people who are allergic to dogs are actually allergic to the dead skin, otherwise known as dander, shed by dogs. In addition to curly fur trapping the dander, poodles actually have less dander than other dog breeds. For example, a labrador sheds its dander every days, whereas a poodle only sheds its dander around ever 21 days. So as well as their curly coat catching and trapping a lot more dander, they produce less- meaning fewer irritating dander particles making their way to those with allergies. Toy poodles, miniature poodles, and standard poodles coats are also different from other dog breeds because they shed less hair. While they do shed, when hair falls out it tends to be caught in the curly hairs, so it does not rub off onto furniture or clothes as much. Another reason poodle fur is different from other dog fur is the way it gets styled by humans. Poodles in the show ring are arguably one of the most heavily styled breeds around- giving poodles their distinct look. Yes, most poodles do develop a curlier coat between 6 and 18 months. If your poodle is less than 18 months it is likely that they simply still have their less-curly puppy coat, so you need to wait for the curls to appear. If your poodle is over 18 months then it is worth knowing that there is some natural variation between poodles and this can make a difference in how curly they end up as adults. Red, cream and apricot poodles tend to end up with looser curls than their black and white brothers and sisters. How do you get poodles to curl? Ensure your poodle is getting all the right nutrients it needs. Like humans, if a poodle is undernourished, it will affect their hair. Wash your poodle with some gentle dog shampoo and allow it to try naturally make sure you have got rid of any mats and tangles first! Trying to get the slicker brush through his hair is a chore! So, do all poodles have curly hair? Yes, all adult purebred poodles have curly hair. A poodle puppy is born with straight hair which can take up to three years to fully mature into the curls. Typically, though, unless your poodle is a mixed breed, the poodle will have curly hair. What started off as a quest to answer a simple question has turned into a fun, in-depth research project. And I share it here with you! Not everyone realizes that poodles are water dogs. Poodles were bred to have long, tight curls that protect them from cold or even freezing water temperatures. Poodles were initially used as working dogs for hunters, but after realizing how useful these smart breeds could be, many sailors, seamen, and even military men began using water dogs in their fields. Poodles are at the top of the heap for working dogs due to their intelligence as well as their curly coats. Historically, poodles have been used to: Retrieve ducks and other birds shot by hunters Retrieve objects that had fallen overboard Pass messages between ships The shaggy cut of water dog breeds has been around for quite some time, and I do not imagine that it will be going anywhere soon. The way curly hair protects the skin of poodles and other water dogs , is actually pretty interesting. Unlike most dogs who have both topcoat and undercoat layers of fur, poodles only need to have their single-layer coat to keep them warm. The dense, tight curls keep water from reaching their skin. Many of us probably thought that these cuts were a bit silly, but they have a history as well! So, to prevent the heavy curls from slowing down waterdogs during their many jobs in the seas, owners would shave their hind legs to make them faster and more aerodynamic in the water. Today, this cut is still popular since poodles are still used as working dogs by many people, but it is also seen as the most traditional look for a show dog. Check out this article I recently wrote on 25 haircuts for poodles. Is curly Poodle Hair Hypoallergenic? Like many other poodle owners, I thought that they—and other curly-haired breeds—were hypoallergenic. In most cases, the scientists say that there was virtually no difference between homes with the fabled hypoallergenic dogs and homes with other dogs. In fact, some rooms in the homes even had a considerable amount of more dander and allergens, but the scientist chalked that up to lenient and lax dog owners who were under the impression that their dogs had no allergens. The reason some people tend to believe that poodles and other curly-haired breeds are hypoallergenic is that they are breeds that do not shed very much. Since they do not shed as much, it seems that less of their dander and allergens would be able to be spread around the house. Though this logic may seem sound, it did not hold up to the experiment. Surprisingly enough, having curly hair is also what keeps poodles from shedding. As I said before, most dogs have two coats, an undercoat, and a topcoat, while poodles only have a single layer coat of hair. It is actually the undercoat that sheds most of the hairs that other dog breeds leave all over the furniture. While poodles still technically shed and regrow hairs like any other dog breed, but their curls create an illusion. After a little while, the lost hairs can become tangled with the rest of the coat, causing them to matt, which makes grooming quite hard. If you are thinking of purchasing or adopting a poodle mix, it can be difficult to know if they will shed or not. Read this article to help determine which poodle mix is for you and your family. First, gather the right tools to start this job. A proper tool could either be a comb or a gentle rake. If your pup is having slight to moderate tangling, the comb would be the best option. However, if your pup has severe tangles, a rake would be more appropriate. The typical brush for this breed is a slicker brush, but that will not be needed in this situation. A great product to use would be Petway de-matting solution. I have used this product for years and it does a great job. This can be easily found on Amazon here. These products will have conditioning oils to add to the body and help repair the damage. This tool is essential to painlessly remove the mats. The last thing you want is for your dog to feel pain during this process. Though these products will help you in the process, remember that they are not magic. This process will be tedious and will take time. Here are the steps to de-matting your poodle: Saturate all of the matted hair with the product of your choice. Make sure that all of the mats are completely wet and then massage the hair deeply with your fingers. This is an important step since the conditioning oils are needed to prevent friction. Let the product dry into the hair. Using your fingers, separate the large clump into smaller sections. Then use your tool to comb through the small sections. Continue to break the mats into smaller sections and comb from tip to skin until all tangles are gone. If your dog has larger mats, consider breaking the up the project into multiple days. Some groomers recommend carefully using scissors to split large mats. I hope you found it helpful. Here are some products that I personally believe every owner should employ to help ensure the best quality of life for their dogs. But in all honesty, these are the exact products that I use and recommend to everyone, even my own family. Lemonade Pet Insurance : Lemonade Pet Insurance has enabled me to afford a very high level of veterinary care for my dog, Angus. Even after he was diagnosed with cancer a few years back. This program actually works, and at a small fraction of the cost of hiring a dog trainer! Pet Plate is the dog food subscription service I use to provide extremely healthy, pre-portioned meals for my dog. Pet Plate gives my dog Angus the highest quality nutrition at a very affordable price. BarkBox : Without a doubt, my dog enjoys Barkbox more than anything else I buy him. BarkBox delivers a customized box of themed toys, treats, and other products to your door each month. In addition, I like that a percentage of proceeds is donated to local animal shelters. I Purchase this service for my dog Angus and have saved hundreds of dollars over visiting his local vet with questions or more minor health concerns. Brent Hartman I'm Brent Hartman. I've been a dog lover my entire life and have owned many animals over the years. When my black lab Angus passed away, I was looking for another friend to share my life with. As a result of my research, I've come to love poodles and wanted to share some of what I've learned with you. Whether you're looking to adopt a poodle, or already own one, I created Poodle report to be the ultimate guide to help you find the answers you need. Recent Posts.

It is also possible to find this adorable dog at a shelter. Shih Tzus Are an Ancient Breed In fact, the breed is more than 1, years old and originally came from ancient Tibet. Their high intelligence and loyal and loving nature makes the German Shepherd an ideal service dog. An active and energetic dog, this mix would do best in a home with people who love to exercise. If properly socialized and trained, the German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix can thrive in households with young kids and other pets. A super-smart mix, the German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix is easy to train and loves to learn complicated tricks. With patience and time, you can develop your dog into a capable and well-trained pet. He can do well in homes with teens and even small children. Due to the large size of the German Shepherd, this mix breed can be a tad on the bigger side. This makes it rather easy for him to accidentally injure a small child. Always keep a close eye on your youngsters when they interact with any dog. Educate them about the proper ways to interact with a dog. Additionally, efficiently train and socialize your German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix to behave around kids. As such, you need to feed your pet a high-quality diet that caters to his size, activity level, and age. The German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix can consume between two and three and a half cups of kibble divided into two meals each day. Ensure your pet always has access to clean, fresh water. A post shared by Happy Puppy L. Long walks, trips to the dog park, and plenty of time spent in the backyard will keep this mix tuckered out. Training classes, challenging puzzles, and interactive toys will keep your pup occupied for hours. Positive reinforcement training techniques work best for this breed. Consistent, firm training combined with loads of patience will ensure you end up with a well-behaved dog. Aim to brush your German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix two times per week and take him to a professional groomer four times each year. Trim his nails as needed. Clean his ears and eyes regularly and brush his teeth every day. Hip dysplasia, allergies, patellar luxation , bladder stones, and the snuffles can develop in this mix. Routine wellness visits with your vet, plenty of exercise, and a quality diet will ensure your dog lives well into old age. Minor Conditions. When fully grown, the Shih Tzu German Shepherd mix weighs in at pounds. They are usually between inches high at the shoulder. The type of coat you have will determine the grooming requirements for your dog. Your German Shepherd Shih Tzu mixed breed dog should be groomed twice a week. You should also take him to the groomer at least four times a year. As needed, trim his nails. Regularly clean his ears and eyes and brush his teeth daily. You may like: Akita mix German Shepherd Health issues. However, illness is not real. Below is a list of health issues that this combination of races can face. There is a small risk of getting the illness. Patellar bone displacement is the hallmark of patellar luxation. Allergies in dogs: Just like humans, dogs can also suffer from allergies. Dogs can have allergies to food, contact, or inhalation. Cataracts: common eye condition in Chihuahuas. It is not life-threatening. You can also be mindful of skin diseases, such as obesity and ear infections. However, you must ensure that the race mix is in compliance with its immunization schedule. You must deworm your dog to prevent common parasites in the intestine. Learn how to manage ticks and fleas in your dog. This mix will be happy with long walks, dog parks trips, and lots of time in the yard. Your designer dog must be mentally stimulated. Your dog will be entertained for hours with interactive toys, puzzles and training classes. The German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix is a smart dog and can learn simple commands as well as more complicated tricks. This breed is best served by positive reinforcement training techniques. The stubborn streaks of both the parent breeds of this mix can be a problem. You will have a well-behaved pet if you combine consistent, firm training with lots of patience. You can have a Shih Tzu-sized dog or a German Shepherd-sized dog. You need to provide a balanced diet for your pet that is appropriate for his age, size, and activity level. German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix will consume approximately two to three-quarter cups of kibble each day, divided into two meals. Make sure your pet has clean water at all times. He is a great pet for families with teens or small children. This German Shepherd mixed breed is a bit larger than the average German Shepherd. It is easy for him accidentally to injure small children. When your children interact with dogs, it is important to keep an eye on them. Also, they should be taught how to properly interact with dogs. You should not disturb the dog while he is eating, roughhouse with him or pull on his ears and tail. Are they get along with other pets? The German Shepherd Shih tzu Mix is a wonderful dog that can be loved by almost anyone. Moreover, this mix is intelligent, loving, and athletic. It would be a great choice for a family with children or a couple who has a large backyard. Socialization and training are essential to ensure your dog is a great companion for many years. I grew up on a farm where we had all sorts of animals, from cows and horses to pigs and chickens. My love for animals led me to pursue a career in writing about them. I have been a pet care writer for over 5 years and have extensive knowledge of animal care, health, and behavior. Weight Gain Possibilities Medium to High Though the possibility of contraction is low, the following are some health issues that can affect the German Shepherd Shih Tzu mix. It can be painful, and fatal but only some dogs show any visible symptoms. Hip Dysplasia is hereditary, but factors like obesity, injuries, wrong exercises can also cause hip dysplasia. Treatments range from medication to replacement of the hip through surgeries. Elbow Dysplasia An inherent structural defect in the elbow joints because of cartilage damage, inflammation, or disrupted anconeal is Elbow dysplasia. It is common in large breed dogs, causing arthritis leading to pain or organ malfunction. Obesity Excess weight or sudden weight gain can cause joint problems, back pain, digestive disorders, and heart disease. German Shepherd Shih Tzu is more prone to obesity. Proper diet and exercise can avoid this obesity. Allergies Dogs can be allergic to food, environmental factors like pollen, grass which can be identified through allergy tests. Allergies can cause breathing issues and skin itching. There is no cure for allergies, but allergy shots and avoiding exposure to the allergens can control allergies. Cataracts A cataract is the growth of a white film-like layer covering the eye lens, making the eye look opaque. It is genetically transmitted and is more prevalent in dogs with the strong Shih Tzu genes. If cataracts are ignored, it can lead to blindness and might require surgery to treat this condition. Bladder Infections: Both male and female German Shepherd Shih Tzu dogs and puppies can get bladder infections which can be painful and requires medical treatment. Underbite If the interbred puppy has inherited Shih Tzu genes, it could suffer from underbite, also known as undershot. The dogs with this condition have a wider lower jaw, and when their mouth is closed, the upper set of their teeth will settle behind the lower set of their teeth instead of settling outside of the lower teeth set, which is the normal alignment. As this mixed breed is susceptible to joint diseases, supplements like chondroitin, glucosamine, and Omega 3 fish oils should be added to their diet. Check the calorie intake and manage the treat quantity as obesity can be dangerous for German Shepherd Shih Tzu. Ensure the availability of clean drinking water every time. Homemade foods are always healthier and safe than store-bought dog food products. Consult a veterinarian before planning a diet to include all the necessary nutrients. They are not suited to be sheltered outdoors. They thrive around the owner and can be amused with toys when the owner is busy. They may not be suitable to play with children or old family members before proper training to avoid aggressiveness. They could not tolerate high temperatures and humidity. Therefore, the advisable choice would be the interbreeding of male Shih Tzu with a female German Shepherd. Both of these dogs can be friendly but personalities differ, so you never know. The German Shepherd is known for being intelligent, curious, and alert. All dogs need proper socialization and that will be a big factor in how they interact with others. What does this mixed breed look and act like? Those are the questions we will try and answer below. While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue, we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their German Shepherd Dog Shih Tzu Mix puppy. If you are interested in helping animal rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer donates to help feed shelter animals. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. If you have a few minutes, please sign our petition to stop puppy mills. Von Stephanitz had in his mind what a good working dog should be and a few generations of breeding fulfilled what Hektor envisioned. Horand von Grafrath is known to be the first German Shepherd Dog. Horand von Grafrath was bred to other similar styled dogs that were believed to have the same traits as what Von Stephanitz was looking for. His most successful offspring was Hektor von Schwaben. Von Stephanitz is widely credited for being the founder of this incredible breed. Von Stephanitz had intended for his breed to work as herding dogs, however, as Germany became more and more industrialized he saw the need to make it working dog. He convinced the German government to use the breed. The breed initially became popular in World War 1. Many American and allied servicemen grew attached to the breed during the war and brought them back to the states after the war was over. The Allied troops fell in love with the breed but not with the fact that it had German roots. It became common for police departments and those looking for true working dogs to import their dogs from Germany because the American dogs had such bad health problems. It is thought that the breed developed by crossing miniature Chinese breeds with small Tibetan breeds — in particular, Lhasa Apsos with the Pekingese. The Shih Tzu was always a favorite of the Emperors of China. During the Tang Dynasty, a pair of these dogs were said to be given to the Chinese court by the king of Vigur. More were sent later by the people of the Ho Chou. In the mids, small dogs which resembled lions were brought from Tibet to China, and these dogs were used to develop the Shih Tzu breed we know today. The Shih Tzu was popular during the Ming Dynasty as well, favored by royalty and commoners alike. Best Wireless Dog Fences : Find the Best Invisible Dog… If your shepherd has never met another dog, or is known to have a hard time being friendly with other dogs, it is possible they may not like a Shih Tzu. This is not a breed specific issue, but an issue of a lack of socialization. A socialized, friendly German Shepherd dog should have no problem getting along with a Shih Tzu! Shih Tzus, just like other dogs, need to be socialized at a young age to ensure an easy transition to life with another dog, like a shepherd. The Shih Tzu might feel like it needs to protect itself from a larger dog. Another reason why a Shih Tzu might not like a German Shepherd is because they may be territorial or dominant. If a dog is trying to show dominance over another, they may become aggressive. Your Shih Tzu may be doing this to a German Shepherd. It is not common for German Shepherds to just attack or even kill other dogs, even small ones. However, German Shepherds are a very territorial, protective breed. They may feel the need to attack or defend their territory if they feel threatened. Shepherds also have a strong prey drive. They may see a small dog like a Shih Tzu as something to hunt. If they are used to small dogs, they will know they are not a threat and not prey. This is true with all small dogs, including the Shih Tzu. Small dogs may go after big dogs because they want to prove they are tough, regardless of their size. The best way to stop fighting between your Shih Tzu and German Shepherd dogs is to prevent it from happening in the first place. If you notice your Shih Tzu or German Shepherd growling or showing dominant behavior toward the other dog, separate them. If a fight starts, you need to separate the dogs immediately. The SPCA has resources to teach you how to properly stop a dog fight once it begins. It may seem silly because of the size difference, but a German Shepherd can mate with a Shih Tzu! There are ongoing debates as to whether or not it is a good idea to mate big dogs with small dogs. Some experts say it is a bad idea because it increases the chance of health issues, while others say it combines the best of all the breeds involved. Due to the size difference, if the two breeds are to mate, the male has to be a Shih Tzu and the female has to be a German Shepherd. German Shepherds will get along with any dog if they are properly trained and socialized from a young age. Because of their size, if a German Shepherd is not well trained or socialized, they can be a danger to other dogs, especially small ones. It is up to the owner to make sure they get to know small dogs early on so they get along with them! If you can afford it, having two dogs is almost always better than having one. Dogs need companionship, a playmate and a sense of security. Having a pair of dogs takes some of the pressure off of you as an owner. There are proven benefits to having two Shih Tzus. They get along well together and because they will be the same size, the risk of injury during play time or the rare scuffle is much less. You can of course have a German Shepherd and a Shih Tzu in the same home. No matter what dogs you want to bring together, you will need to train and socialize them early. If you want to have a German Shepherd and a Shih Tzu, you can. However, it may be easier to have two Shih Tzus instead. For the most part, Shih Tzus are one of the least aggressive dog breeds. They are known for being cuddly, friendly dogs. However, there are always exceptions. Some aggressive behaviors you may see in your Shih Tzu could include growling and nipping at other dogs. However, because of their small size, you may find it best that they live with other small dogs. The best dog to live with a Shih Tzu is another Shih Tzu, because they will most likely have similar personalities and temperaments. German Shepherds are bred to be territorial guard dogs. Because of this, without the proper training, they can become aggressive towards other dogs. If your German Shepherd is raised around other dogs through classes, dog parks and other events, they are much less likely to be aggressive towards other dogs. The more you socialize your German Shepherd, the more they will get along with other dogs. German Shepherds are a large, high energy breed. Because of this, the best dogs to pair with them are other large, high energy breeds. If you have a German Shepherd and are planning on getting another dog, the best options include a Lab, Husky, Golden Retriever or other German Shepherd.