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Christina Tuesday 18th of April You say to expect to pay a lot for a well bred merle Frenchie from a reputable breeder but there is no such thing. If a breeder breeds Merle frenchies then that proves they are nor a reputable breeder, and it's not a well bred dog. It's not even a frenchie. The only way to get a Merle is to cross breed with a breed that naturally carries Merle Claire Johnson Sunday 28th of May Christina, these is no such thing as a well bred merle Frenchie. The terms are mutually exclusive. There are numerous health issues associated with this color. Do your research. This article even says that there's more health problems associated with Merle. So how is it a lie? Also please don't dilute the term gaslight. If you don't know what it means please don't use it. A purpose bred mutt is one thing. But cross breeding with a breed that already has substantial health issues to get a not naturally occurring colour associated with even more health issues does NOTHING to benefit the breed. It is irresponsible, has a hugely negative impact on the breeds longevity, and dilutes the breed so preservation is more of an issue. Buying Merle frenchies is is just paying way too much for a mutt, that's likely gonna have a rough life, and it supports backyard breeding which should be made illegal at this point. If you want a Merle dog, get a breed where Merle is naturally occurring. Christina Tuesday 18th of April Renee, if it's Merle, it's not a frenchie. Frenchies can't be Merle without crossbreeding. You esentially have a backyard bred mutt. There's no such thing as a well bred Merle frenchie. And no reputable breeder will breed designer colours not naturally occurring in the breed. I own 2 beautiful French Bulldog merles and they are healthy and sweet. I wasn't looking for a merle but based on their disposition and excellent health I couldn't go home with one. I am not breeding or showing but only loving them crazy. FrenchieWiki Community. While Merle is a naturally occurring color in many dog breeds, Frenchies are not one of them. History and Origins Merle French Bulldogs share the same history as normal Frenchies up until they had the Merle gene introduced. Many lace workers from Nottingham, England, relocated to France for better job opportunities during the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century. They brought their toy-sized Bulldogs with them, which quickly gained popularity among the locals, especially in Paris. These Bulldogs became a fashion statement and were favored by French society, including artists, writers, and nobles. Soon, breeders added other breeds for specific traits, like the Rat Terrier for the signature upright bat ears and the Pug for the shorter snout. By the late 19th century, the French Bulldog had become a beloved companion dog and was recognized as a separate breed from the English Bulldog. However, remember that Merle is not an acceptable color to the AKC. Therefore, there two basic ways that breeders created Merle Frenchies, Modern cross-breeding with merle-carrying breeds like Cardigan Corgis, Miniature American Shepherd or Dachshunds to introduce the merle gene and have merle Frenchie mixed breeds. This way, even if two Frenchies are used during breeding, a dog with natural Merle, like the Catahoula Leopard dog, was added at some point. To have a merle dog, one of the parents of the dog must be merle, so it this implies that in most cases, breeders bred their French Bulldogs intentionally to get the sought-after color. Some sources on the internet claim that merle Frenchies are the result of a cross between a Frenchie and merle Chihuahua. The problem with this is that Chihuahuas do not naturally carry a merle gene either. Merle French Bulldogs have unique fur patterns and eye colors ranging from blue, green, or brown. They may have one blue and one brown eye, although eyes of two different colors is disqualified in their breed standard. In terms of body structure, merle French Bulldogs typically exhibit the same compact and muscular build as other French Bulldogs. They have a sturdy, medium-sized frame with a broad chest, well-developed shoulders, and a thick, powerful neck. Their legs are short and muscular, supporting their body and giving them a low-to-the-ground appearance. Just like the long hair that distinguishes Fluffy Frenchies, the unique and captivating Merle coat pattern adds an extra element of visual appeal to their appearance. Due to their rare colorings, Merle French Bulldogs have become an attractive option for disreputable breeders trying to make money from the rare color. The merle Frenchie is not hypoallergenic and they are prone to shedding throughout the year. On average, Merle French Bulldogs stand between 11 to 12 inches 28 to 30 cm tall at the shoulder. The weight of a merle French Bulldog usually ranges between 16 to 28 pounds 7 to 13 kg. Help Dogs In Need Our blog posts aim to provide comprehensive, accurate, and objective information on all types of dogs, helping our readers make informed choices that fit their lifestyles. We encourage exploring adoption first. Countless wonderful dogs from all breeds await their forever homes in shelters. Remember, with AdoptDontShop. You can give a deserving rescue a second chance at happiness. Help Dogs In Need Our blog posts aim to provide comprehensive, accurate, and objective information on all types of dogs, helping our readers make informed choices that fit their lifestyle. We don't endorse any specific breeding practices, but advocate for ethical breeding and dog welfare. Countless wonderful dogs, from all breeds, await their forever homes in shelters. Remember, with AdoptDontShop, you can give a deserving rescue a second chance at happiness. How Do Merle Frenchies Behave? Merle French Bulldog Temperament Merle French Bulldogs are typically happy, friendly, affectionate, and social but alert and even-tempered dogs. These pups thrive on being the center of attention and are impressively attuned to your emotions, making them extremely empathetic. These pups may not be the easiest dogs to train, as they rank out of in working and obedience intelligence. Still, their giant personalities make up for the extra patience and commitment you may need to train them. They are sensitive dogs and do not do well with harsh treatment. The standard merle coat pattern has two main features: a lighter base color like blue or gray and random patches of darker color. In addition to the standard merle, there are two other merle variations: dilute and harlequin. Dilute merles have a softer dilution of the coat color without any distinct dark patches. On the other hand, harlequin merles have a white base coat with big patches of darker merle color. Double merle French Bulldogs are more likely to have vision and hearing impairments, such as partial or complete deafness and eye abnormalities. This is because the merle gene affects the development of the inner ear and the pigmentation of the eye, making them more susceptible to these issues. These can include vision and hearing difficulties, skin sensitivities, and digestive troubles. A study showed that dogs with the Merle allele have a 0. Skin problems are many and varied, from a tendency toward allergies, to color dilution alopecia or hair loss. Frenchies with this condition keep coughing like they have something stuck and find it hard to breathe. Except for blindness and deafness, these dogs are also at risk of diseases like: Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome— A study showed that Frenchies are 39 times more likely to contract airway syndrome. Respiratory illnesses due to the shortened snout, sometimes causing dry heaving in the breed. Eye problems, with signs like pink bumps around the eye , are rampant in this breed. Degenerative Myelopathy affects the spine, causing muscle weakness and lack of coordination. Research has shown that flat-faced breeds like Frenchies are at the highest risk. Mild to moderate issues like obesity, allergies, stomach sensitivity, and dental problems. To ensure good health, vets should do regular check-ups to detect potential issues early. To keep them fine, you must supply the appropriate amount of physical exertion and mental stimulation. Training: Positive reinforcement is great for Merle French Bulldogs. Consistency is essential when training these doggos, as they can be obstinate. Obedience training, socialization with other dogs, and leash training should be factored in. Exercise: These furballs need moderate daily exercise to avert obesity and health issues. They need short walks for 30 to 45 minutes and indoor and yard workouts. But their short snouts and sensitive respiratory systems make them prone to overheating, so take care. Mental Stimulation: Alongside physical exercise, Merle French Bulldogs need mental stimulation like puzzle toys or interactive games to ward off monotony which can lead to aggressive conduct. Be careful when exercising Merle French Bulldogs, considering their delicate respiratory systems. Still, they are active and lively dogs that need loads of love and communication from their owners. Have your dog checked for underlying health issues, since problems like liver, kidney, or hearts issues all need specialized diets. Ask a vet before changing food. It is also possible that Merle French Bulldogs may have allergies or sensitivities. If you see any odd signs or symptoms, contact a veterinarian. Cleaning any wrinkles is necessary to prevent infections due to water and debris trapped in the wrinkles. Baths Bathing supports coat health, hygiene, and comfort. Aim to bathe these dogs monthly with quality shampoo and dry them thoroughly to prevent them from itching after grooming. Other grooming Eye issues can be prevented with regular eye wiping with an eye solution. Clean ears once or twice a week with dog ear wipes to reduce ear infections. Trim nails with the right dog nail cutter to keep them comfortable on walks. Merle Frenchies are excellent with kids but must be monitored around kids to avoid accidents. They behave well around other animals, especially if properly socialized. Socialization is important for Frenchies as they can be quite feisty and tenacious. Pros: They are cuddly and love to play, making them perfect family pets. Their eye-catching coat patterns are unique. Moderate exercise and adaptable to both city and country living. Cons: Certain health issues like deafness and eye problems come with their genes. Their flat faces can lead to breathing issues. The cost depends on many factors, such as genetics, breeders, availability, and location. Be wary of dogs offered on websites like craigslist. Merle French Bulldogs can have health issues like deafness and eye deformities. So, research the breed, color, and any possible breeders thoroughly before deciding to get one. Yes, Merle French Bulldogs are considered rare, and their price can be significantly higher than other French Bulldog varieties. This is true even if merle is not recognized French Bulldog color. Do Merle French Bulldogs have many health issues? The Merle gene can increase the risk of health problems such as deafness, blindness, and skin problems in French Bulldogs. Therefore, it is essential to buy from a reputable breeder who can ensure good health outcomes. They bark only when they feel they have to to alert you of something. They may also bark when bored or feeling lonely. Merle Frenchies live for about 10 to 12 years. This pup has become a favorite among pet lovers around the world. Owning a Merle French Bulldog requires extra attention. They are small and delicate, so health issues can arise if not cared for properly. But, having a Merle French Bulldog can be very rewarding. They are loving, faithful, and full of fun. They make wonderful companions for families and individuals alike. Tamsin De La Harpe Author Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs. Got Questions? Sundays Food For Dogs This is an air-dried food. It has the convenience of kibble just pour it in the bow but is much much healthier. There are a number of air-dried foods on the market. My dogs tested 3 of them. You can see the results of the air-dried food test here. We Feed Raw. This raw food for dogs comes delivered to your home is perfectly sized portions for your pup. They primarily source their ingredients from trusted U. These ingredients are sourced from New Zealand, where some of the highest-quality and most ethically raised venison and lamb can be found. For a limited time, when you buy one month you get a second month free. What are Merle French Bulldogs? Merle French Bulldogs are a color variation within the French Bulldog breed, characterized by a mottled or blotchy pattern on their coat. The merle gene causes variations in coat color and can result in unique patterns, such as blue, silver, or chocolate markings. Are Merle French Bulldogs rare? Yes, Merle French Bulldogs are considered rare due to the specific genetic combination required to produce the merle coat pattern. Can Merle French Bulldogs have blue eyes? Yes, some Merle French Bulldogs may have blue eyes. Blue eyes are a result of the merle gene interacting with other genetic factors. How can I find reputable Merle French Bulldog breeders? Look for breeders who prioritize the health and temperament of their dogs, perform health tests, and provide a clean and caring environment for their puppies. The registration of Merle French Bulldogs can vary depending on the kennel club and its policies. Some kennel clubs may allow registration of Merle French Bulldogs, while others may not recognize them due to concerns about health issues associated with the merle gene. The American Kennel club does not recognize frenchies with the merle pattern as an official French bulldogs, as it does not meet the breed standards. Is it necessary to feed Merle French Bulldogs a raw dog food diet? Merle French Bulldogs may be prone to certain health issues associated with the merle gene, such as deafness, eye abnormalities, and skin sensitivities. Responsible breeders conduct genetic health testing to minimize the risk of these conditions. Some kennel clubs may not allow Merle French Bulldogs to compete due to concerns about the genetic health issues associated with the merle gene. Check the competition guidelines for clarity. How should I feed my Merle French Bulldog puppy? Feeding your Merle French Bulldog puppy a balanced and nutritious diet is crucial for their overall health. Consider high-quality puppy dog food or a raw dog food diet or here are several Vet-Approved Homemade Puppy Food Recipes How is the merle color created in French Bulldogs? To create the merle color in a Frenchie, breeders usually crossbreed with a different breed, commonly merle chihuahuas, to get the gene they are looking for. This means that merle Frenchies may not be a pure breed Where did the merle gene originate? The merle gene is believed to have originated in certain herding breeds, such as Border Collies and Australian Shepherds. Over time, this gene has been introduced into other breeds through crossbreeding. In the case of French Bulldogs, the merle gene may have been introduced through intentional or unintentional crossbreeding with other breeds carrying the merle gene. What should I feed my Merle French Bulldog puppy? A raw dog food diet can be beneficial for your Merle French Bulldog puppy. A raw dog food diet typically consists of muscle meat often still on the bone , bones either whole or ground , organ meats such as livers and kidneys , raw eggs, vegetables like broccoli, spinach, and celery , apples or other fruit, and some dairy such as yogurt. What are some different color varieties of Merle French Bulldogs? Frenchies with a merle coat come in a range of colors including Blue Merle and Lilac Merle. The blue base coat color has more of a blue tint than a true blue color and is very unique against the darker patches of pigment. Lilac hue comes from a combination of the brown and blue coat colors. The blue coat is further diluted, creating a beautiful, unique coat with a slight lilac appearance What is a Harlequin Merle French Bulldog? A Harlequin Merle French Bulldog is a color variation that combines the harlequin and merle coat patterns. These dogs have a marbled or splotchy coat with larger patches of color and may exhibit variations in shades and markings. What is a Cryptic Merle French Bulldog? A Cryptic Merle French Bulldog, also known as a hidden merle or phantom merle, refers to a dog that carries the merle gene but does not display the typical merle coat pattern. These dogs may have a solid coat color, but they carry the potential to produce merle offspring when bred with another merle. Can White Merle French Bulldogs exist? No, White Merle French Bulldogs do not exist. The merle gene affects the distribution of pigment in the coat, resulting in variations of color and pattern, but it does not produce a completely white coat. Merle French Bulldogs may have white markings or patches in their coat, but they are not entirely white. What is a Tweed Merle French Bulldog? A Tweed Merle French Bulldog refers to a specific variation of the merle coat pattern that resembles a tweed fabric. Merles are primarily known for their unique markings, a genetic expression of the M-locus or Merle gene which causes random skin pigmentation and lightens their eye color. They come in a variety of colors and range in spectrums of white, grey and black, white and beige, dark brown, beige and white and mixes of greys and Beiges together. The lilac genetics are expressed in the flash of red in there light blue colored eyes and a combination of chocolate and blue base color in their coats. Black, tan and fawn make up the black Merle and they often have brown eyes or blue eyes. On occasion, a combination of both will express itself where you will see one brown eye and one blue eye or a streak of one color inside the other. Genetically they come from the black Merle whose color base has been diluted to create a blue hue. Health of Merle Bulldogs French Bulldogs like all other breeds have certain health risks. For a golden retriever it is hip displasia. For a french bulldog it is a vulnerable back that encourages good practices for their owners to have stairs in place always at sites where dogs should not be jumping from such as a high bed or couch. It has been rumored that Merle french bulldogs are less healthy than standard french bulldogs. This would only be true if poor breeding practices are exercised. That would be breeding one Merle dog to another. Common problems include blindness and deafness as well as chronic allergies, immune disorders, heart murmurs and hip dysplasia. A responsible breeder will tell you about this. Additionally to encourage better health throughout a dogs life Feeding your dog a raw diet and giving them NuVet supplements are required by our standards. In general a raw diet has been proven to lengthen life span. Also not spaying and neutering before the age of six and preserving hormones will encourage longer life. Merle is not a color, its a pattern. There are some patterns recreated by breeders that have become popular and also despised upon by other breeders. Merle French bulldogs are such dogs whose pattern has become very popular due to its rarity and the diversity of patterns. The gene alters the color of the dogs and creates patterns over patterns and this creates mottled patches in the colors of the litter. Also, the gene modifies the color of the eyes nose and the paw pads. Blue eyes are common in these dogs and also an odd colored set of eyes can also be present. No Merle dog will be the same as the patterns will always differ along with the color. There are three types of genes that the dog can carry. Breeders take advantage of the availability of French Bulldogs in up to 20 twenty different colors. They then create a rare, low maintenance dog. Merle is one of the most expensive colors of French bulldogs out there and one of the rarest. Merle French bulldogs are not pure breeds. The color is a mix of other patterns mixed together by careful selection and breeding. If the breeder messes up on the color combination, the puppies can come out unhealthy and weak with birth defects. No French bulldog has the merle gene and therefore, Merle French bulldogs are not purebred. Many dog breeds have this gene, however, Chihuahuas are used to introduce this gene in the French bulldog family. Some breeders can also crossbreed the puppies to create a purebred Merle French bulldog. The pattern depends on the gene dilution as there are variations in the pattern of these dogs. Blue, black, lavender are some of the colors which are diluted with the merle gene. These dogs are very rare and are sought out for all over the world. Color variations Blue merle French Bulldog Blue merle French Bulldogs are one of our most sought-after puppies of all the colors. They got their name after the blue patches on their light-colored coat, which are essentially grey with a bluish shine in the light. The shade of the grey parts may vary from very light to almost black, while their base color also ranges from a yellowish cream color to light grey. Lilac merle French Bulldog Lilac merle French Bulldogs are often mistaken for blue merle Frenchies, but they are much more unique and harder to come by. Lilac merle Frenchies have very light, almost ashy or silver colored patches on their light coat. To produce this rare and beautiful color, the parents have to carry the blue, chocolate and merle gene. Lilac merle French Bulldogs usually have light-colored eyes which are glowing red. Chocolate merle French Bulldog Chocolate merle French Bulldogs have dark brown mottled patches all over their light-colored bodies. Choco merle pups also have unique genetics so they are quite rare and hard to come by. Similarly to lilac Frenchies, they are the combination of blue and chocolate but their grey shade is more of a champagne color. Breeders have managed to mix in the merle gene as well producing the Isabella merle French Bulldog, but these dogs are extremely rare. Black merle French Bulldog Black merle French Bulldogs have black mottled patches often covering most of their bodies. Their base coat is also slightly darker than in other merle Frenchies, ranging from light grey to light brown. Fawn merle French Bulldog There are a number of different variations of fawn merle French Bulldogs, like blue fawn merle, lilac fawn merle or chocolate fawn merle. The dark patches these Frenchies have are less distinct looking than in other merles, as they are only a bit darker than their light fawn base color. One of these rare traits is their sparkling blue eyes. Since the merle gene affects the skin pigment as well, when a merle patch crosses the eye area the Frenchie will have bright forever blue eyes. Sometimes only one of the eyes will remain blue, which is a phenomenon called heterochromia. Because of how dominant the merle gene is, merle Frenchies should only be bred to a dog with a solid coat color. They are insanely affectionate making them the perfect companion dogs, they just want to spend every minute of their time with their owners. They are extremely friendly with kids and other animals too; they love basically anyone they meet! Thanks to their easy-going nature, a Merle Frenchie will adapt to your lifestyle very quickly no matter where you live. As you might expect, colors that are considered common for the breed have the lowest prices, while colors which are more unique and harder to produce are more expensive as well. When it comes to Merle French Bulldogs, they are already in a higher price range, but depending on the color variation their prices may further vary a lot. Permanent blue eyes also push the prices up a bit: we charge USD per blue eye.

It can be a minor issue or flat-out hazardous. So, we applaud you for trying to learn why you have a skinny German Shepherd. Excessive Exercise It could be likely that your skinny male German Shepherd is overly active and getting a lot of exercise. More work means more food, not just any food but those high in calories. Dental Issues We often let dental problems in our dogs go unnoticed. It can be a sore, abscess, ulcer, or even broken teeth and gum infections. It can cause weight loss over time or even spread to other areas in the body if not treated quickly. Health problems that affect their weight can range widely. Parasites and worms are common issues in many dogs, while more severe problems like cancer and heart disease also cause unusual weight loss. Look for other symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and dizziness as they usually accompany weight loss when the dog suffers from a serious health issue. Your dog can get undesirable effects too. Not getting enough attention, training , exercise, or not socializing enough can lead to anxiety in your dog. Other causes include moving to a new home and bringing home a new pet. Think about what might be causing stress in your dog and consider how you can improve its overall living quality. Genetics Sometimes, the reason for a skinny German Shepherd can be as simple as its genetic factor. Most working German Shepherds are lean, so your dog will most probably be skinny because it is from this bloodline. Try to recollect how it looked when it was younger. Aging causes dental problems and appetite loss, which makes them skinny. However, it can also be because of deeper health problems brought about by aging, like cancer. Here are some effective options you can consider: Visit the Vet The foremost thing to do when your German Shepherd is suddenly losing weight is to see a vet. Consider Puppy Food Puppy food contains ingredients that help puppies grow rapidly and healthily. Try feeding puppy food to your older dog to let it gain weight. However, consult with the vet before implementing this step to ensure safety. Try Wet Food German Shepherds with dental problems will benefit tremendously from wet food. It is much easier to consume, making your pet want to eat more. Let Them Eat When They Want German Shepherd parents who cannot make time to give them multiple meals daily should consider leaving the food out for them to eat anytime. Leave dry food instead of wet food, as they will remain fresh for longer. Homemade Treats Might Help Making treats for your dog at home ensures a healthier diet. Cheese and peanut butter are great options. While buying them, make sure to look for those high in calories. Note: Steer clear of grapes and chocolates while preparing homemade treats for your GSD. It can also relieve you to know that your pooch is gaining weight, even if slowly. The Takeaway Whether you have a skinny female German Shepherd or a male one, seeing them lose weight can be disheartening. While some breeds are lean by nature, a variety of underlying health issues might be causing it. Take it to the vet to rule out all possibilities, or treat them ASAP. You can also help your dog gain back weight by following the above measures. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Do you want to know how to fatten up a German Shepherd to make them gain weight in a healthy way? Are you worried that your German Shepherd is thin and underweight and want to know how to bulk up a German Shepherd for safe weight-gain? Is Your German Shepherd Underweight? Your dog should have a trim, athletic appearance. They are large breed dogs with fast metabolisms that are active and energetic in their daily lives. Fit German Shepherds may at first seem slightly underweight. They are lean, athletic dogs with a strong, firm figure and you should avoid learning how to make a German Shepherd fat. Instead, you want to bulk-up your German Shepherd to make them fit. But if you see their ribs protruding or their hip bones raised and easily felt when petting, this is a sign of being underweight. You should first check with your vet for possible medical issues. You want to know if they are gaining weight, losing weight, or remaining the same. This helps you to decide if your weight gain plan is working — or if you need to adjust your plan. If your dog continues losing weight or if you see a lack of progress, take your dog back to your veterinarian. You need to see this as a long term plan and not an overnight fix to get your German Shepherd fat and by fat, I mean bulk-up not obese or overweight. Look for foods that have a higher percentage of fat and protein than your current food. Adults and seniors should eat about 20 to 25 percent of their daily calories from protein and 25 to 50 percent from fats. The rest of the calories should come from carbohydrates. This is anywhere from 8 months to a year or longer. Change to Puppy or High-Performance Food If you have an adult dog, switch them to a puppy or high-performance dog food to help them gain healthy weight. Both puppy and high-performance also known as a working breed food is higher in calories to support complex energy needs and sustained growth. Puppy foods generally have added nutrients to support puppy growth which can help your underweight German Shepherd gain weight and fatten up in a controlled manner — which is what you want. Mixing regular adult and puppy or high-performance food helps your GSD gain weight and fat in a regulated manner. For More Calories Feed Dry Kibble Dry kibble dog food generally has more calories if you want your dog to gain weight. Dry kibble is denser and contains more calories than wet food because the moisture has been removed from dry foods. Therefore, dry food has up to 4 times the number of calories as the same amount of wet food — dry kibble is a weight gaining powerhouse! If your dog is currently eating wet meals, then try mixing in some dry food with their wet food to help stimulate weight gain. Wet foods may taste better to your dog, so mixing in the dry foods with the wet still encourages your dog to eat in order to not lose more weight. Look for dry food with higher protein and fats to encourage weight gain in a healthy manner and go with one of the foods mentioned above for fat gain that is healthy. Begin by feeding your dog a bit more of their current food spread out over one more meal per day. Add a quarter to half a cup of extra food per meal. You can also take their regular feeding and the additional food and increase their feeding schedule to four times per day, splitting the food equally at each feeding. If your German Shepherd is picky about when they eat, then it may help to leave food out for them all the time. This is called free feeding. Dogs who can free feed tend to gain more weight than dogs fed on a schedule. Free feeding allows your dog the chance to eat a little whenever they are hungry or bored. This type of feeding may help them eat more overall. But only use free feeding with dry food, since wet foods spoil when left out for more than a couple hours. They may follow you around rather than eat when you offer their food bowl — this may be especially true of Shepherds since they tend to get fixated on their caretaker. But, just keeping your dog company while they eat may stimulate their appetite. Find a comfortable spot to sit and wait on your dog while they eat. Bring a book or do a quiet activity while they eat close to you. Simply sit with them and enjoy your time together while they eat. Keep the treats handy and offer them to help get extra calories into your dog. Adding these foods into their regular kibble may also entice them to eat more of their dry dog food, which can help an underweight puppy or adult. They also add extra calories which are healthy and nutritious. To get your dog more interested in their food, try sprinkling on a topping to their usual meals. You can even buy healthy toppers that are easy to add. Seniors, adults, and puppies all have various nutritional concerns. Most commercial and pre-made dog foods specify their intended age range on the packaging and state what groups the food is aimed at feeding. Underfeeding a German Shepherd puts your dog at a serious health risk. You need to make sure they get enough food for their age and energy needs. Puppies generally eat almost double the number of calories an adult dog needs, so be sure to check out this post on what amount to feed a German Shepherd puppy to keep them healthy. While a senior GSD may eat significantly fewer calories, if they are losing weight or underweight and a vet has been consulted, they may need extra feedings or food to help them gain the weight back. German Shepherds thrive on consistent physical activity. Walking and swimming are activities that build muscle and are lower impact and less intense on their joints and bones. They can be done every day to keep your dog active and help them to maintain their muscle mass. But these two exercises can be performed at a lower intensity so that even older dogs and puppies can enjoy their benefits make sure your puppy can swim first. Keeping muscle mass is important to prevent wasting and help maintain their health and mobility, as well as their athletic appearance. Try walking up hills to improve muscle growth or a gentle game of tug using a spring pole in which your dog can start and stop on their own. Some of the herbs used to increase human appetite are also safe for use in dogs. Dandelion is available in this for-1 multivitamin , along with other herbal supplements to make your GSD gain weight. B vitamins are natural appetite stimulants and are readily available over the counter and online. Visit Your Vet Regularly Always see your vet regularly. Regular vet appointments are especially important for your underweight German Shepherd. Your vet will use your notes to help make medical adjustments, as necessary, and to give you the right tips and advice. Helping Your German Shepherd Gain Weight Knowing how to fatten up a German Shepherd can help you and your dog achieve their ideal weight and maintain this healthy condition. There are many reasons why your dog or puppy may not be gaining weight. But there are also ways to help your dog at home to become healthier and have more energy. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Other Causes Senior Dogs Older dogs tend to have smaller appetites and a general lack of interest in eating. This is often caused by underlying health problems, so the best course of action would be to consult with a veterinarian. This usually happens when a dog is used to being fed table scraps or treats and it loses interest in plain dog food. Check For Any Medical Conditions Should you verify that your German Shepherd is indeed unhealthily skinny, your first course of action should be to take the dog to a veterinarian. Again, you would have to feed your German Shepherd at least 1, calories to 2, calories daily depending on its activity level. Do note however, that the calories per cup may vary depending on the brand of dog food, and thus you would have to adjust the calculations based on the actual numbers provided on the packaging. Aside from the amount, be sure to also consider the quality of the food. While feeding your German Shepherd a high amount of low-quality dog food will prevent it from being skinny, it will eventually lead to other issues such as skin disorders and lethargy. Your vet will be able to recommend a diet plan to help get your dog back into healthy shape. To do that, you have to make your dog understand that there are no other food options. Meaning, you only set out food for a limited amount of time, and whether or not the food was eaten, you take it away after the time has passed. What this does is make it clear to your dog that there are no other options. In The Case Of Senior Dogs Opposite to the case of picky eaters, you may want to add more appetizing options for senior dogs. Old dogs tend to lose interest in dry food so your best option would be to add chicken broth or canned food to make meals more appealing. In some cases, you may also have to make your old dog home-cooked meals just so your dog would find mealtimes more enjoyable. If all else fails, you can get your dog medication and appetite stimulants to help it eat. You can do this in a variety of ways such as by providing your German Shepherd with enough physical and mental stimulation, providing a calm and relaxing environment free of loud noises, or by identifying and removing the stressor. To summarize. Your German Shepherd may be skinny due to following reasons: Poor diet and nutrition Stress Age The usual culprit though would be the first two. And so, if your German Shepherd is unnecessarily skinny, your best course of action would be to take it to the vet. Final Thoughts I wish that this article has helped you understand how to handle and help your skinny German Shepherd. I also hope that it serves as a guide to help you get your dog back into healthy shape. That said, if your German Shepherd ever does have issues, be it being underweight or any other medical condition, do consult with a veterinarian. Post navigation. So too will a GSD that is consuming low-quality food in general. Getting the calories right! Moderately active German shepherds need around calories per day, whereas highly active German shepherds need around calories per day. Highly active working GSDs may even need upwards of calories. Either the quality of the food is fine, but the portion sizes are too small too few calories , or the quality of the kibble is lacking. Again, this ties into calorie consumption. If your GSD is super active over 3 hours of exercise a day , she will likely need calories per day. Health issues In most cases, health issues are the cause of sudden weight loss. Health issues that affect weight can range from harmless and treatable all the way to serious, even fatal issues rarer. Common problems like worms and parasites particularly in puppies can cause weight loss. Rarer and more serious things like heart disease and cancer can also cause weight loss. Health problems usually always come with multiple symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, dizziness, or any noticeable change from her normal self. If this is the case, then it would be evident right from puppyhood. If you were lucky enough to see the mum and other puppies in the litter, they would have all been similarly skinny. Some GSDs are just smaller than others. Stress and anxiety Just as stress can have many undesirable effects on us, it can do the same with our furry friends, too, weight loss being one of them. Common reasons include spending too much time alone, not receiving enough exercise, attention, or training. Additionally, it could be down to a change in their environment like moving homes, new neighbors, or even the addition of a household pet. Consider your GSDs overall quality of life, basic needs and think about the possibility of them being stressed. Bad eating habits Fussy eating is something many owners have to deal with at some point. The issue is that this could be the cause of weight loss. Once again, it comes back down to the calories in versus the calories out. I have an entire article dedicated to why your GSD might be refusing their food. Dental issues If your GSD is suffering from any kind of dental complaint, this could cause them to refuse their food and lose out on calories. So I think it deserves its own section. In fact, this was actually what happened with my GSD when she was 7. After refusing her food and simultaneously losing weight, I checked her mouth to find some serious gum irritation thankfully not gum disease. We got that resolved with the help of our veterinarian, and her appetite came back right away. Aside from using the scales, one of the best ways to know if your GSD is underweight or not is to simply feel them and look at their waistline. Ribs Run your hand along their side with light pressure. You should be able to feel their ribs a little this is normal! Waistline Waistline abdominal tuck should be noticeable but not extreme. Check out this chart from Petcarerx source. If the weight loss has happened suddenly for no obvious reason, it is advised to see a vet. Important note: If you suspect your GSD is losing weight for an alternative reason like stress or dental issues, the best solution would be to address those issues instead of adjusting their diet. Always consider the cause first. Add wet dog food My all-time favorite way to stop fussy eating while adding a boost of nutrition and calories is to mix in a small amount of wet dog food to their kibble. This is a known and safe method that veterinarians recommend to help with weight gain. Mix in some wet dog food preferably the same brand , and your GSD will likely benefit from this greatly. Add it once a day or every other day. This will enhance the flavor and beat most cases of fussy eating. Just ensure the meat broth you use is a healthy option without a high salt content or artificial flavorings or additives. Increase portion size Assuming you are already using a high-quality kibble and your GSD is getting on well with it no digestive issues or diarrhea , then it could be a simple matter of increasing the portion size. Be sure to check the back of the bag and work out how many calories you are adding. This is a noticeable difference for a dog, so you should see some changes in weight over weeks. Avoid giving too many treats Although we are trying to add calories and encourage weight gain, treats are not the solution to this. Especially if your GSD is refusing the food anyway. These brands focus on high-quality ingredients that are fresh and close to their natural state. Brands like these also prioritize protein and fat over carbohydrates, which is an instant sign of higher quality. Inferior brands are known to use carbs to bulk out their food while keeping prices cheap. In addition to this, canines, in general, are better adapted to eating a wild diet. Wild diets are high in protein and fat while low on carbs. This results in better digestion and absorption of the food they are eating. Just remember to change foods gradually over the course of days, phasing out the old and incorporating more of the new. This should prevent stomach upset. Additional articles that may help:. Your veterinarian can check for worms with a stool sample. Certain types of worms such as roundworms can be fatal in puppies if left untreated, so it is crucial that you take your puppy for regular checkups. Has your Puppy Been Traveling Regularly? If you feel that your GSD puppy is too skinny, consider if you have been taking it along for car rides on a consistent basis. Many puppies experience motion sickness. This does not necessarily mean that they will vomit or have an upset stomach only. Some puppies will do neither, and instead, decrease their eating to the point of losing weight. If this is the case, limit the amount of time your puppy spends traveling in a car. This will allow your puppy to have you as a reference point and a distraction. Provide a small puppy bed on the seat. Make sure that the temperature in the car is neither too hot or cold. Pay attention to how you drive. Often times we take our driving for granted without considering the comfort of our passengers. Puppies can be especially sensitive during car rides, so be sure to take turns gently, and do not brake or accelerate suddenly. A change in the environment is a common cause of a longer-term loss of appetite and weight loss in puppies. A change in environment for your puppy does not just mean that it has moved from one physical location to another. They learn and function well with routine. This can sometimes result in a long term lack of appetite and weight loss. You may likely find that if one or more of the above changes are addressed, that your puppy will resume a normal eating schedule and quickly bounce back from being underweight. Your GSD puppy needs adequate nutrients in its diet for growth and to maintain a healthy weight. GSDs are considered medium to large-sized dogs, and they need to be fed the appropriate breed-formulated dog food, especially as puppies. If you are not feeding it the right formulation for its breed size, this can result in undernourishment and a skinny puppy. So as well as checking for a loss of weight you should also look for the following. Dull, Lifeless Coat A dull lifeless coat is also another sign of an underweight german shepherd. Once again without the proper nutrients in their diet, their body will begin to suffer. In a lot of cases, the quality of their fur will suffer first. On top of this, when the body gets too starved of energy it will begin to eat itself. And muscles are the first thing to go. This might show itself in a loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. And it can also be a sign of a serious health issue. Ribcage Showing In extreme cases, an underweight german shepherds ribcage will show. You should never allow your dog to get to this point, however, if you do then you need to take them to the vets immediately. Looking Down At Them When your german shepherd is standing up, stand over them and look down. They should look bulky and full. Slimming at the waist is to be expected as well. Feeling Their Ribs Another great test is to run your hands along their ribs. In a healthy dog, you should be able to feel their ribs ever so slightly under a small amount of fat and muscle. However, if your german shepherd is underweight his ribs will feel like skin and bone. And if it is, are you feeding them enough? On top of this food also has different calories. Check out the best food for german shepherd puppies. This is one of the reasons you need to take your dog for frequent check-ups at the vets! Dental Problems A lot of the times dogs have dental problems that you may not even be aware of. For example, one of my labradors had a tooth that chipped and went rotten. However, if it was, it would have only been spotted by accident. As well as having a broken tooth there are also other dental problems that may be causing your german shepherd to stop eating. Diabetes One symptom of diabetes in dogs is weight loss. However, as well as weight loss you may also notice symptoms such as excessive thirst, urination, and urinary tract infections. If you think this is the case then you can try changing their food and leaving them to eat by themselves. You Have An Old Pup! As your german shepherd enters their senior years they may begin to eat less and less. Things that seem small to you could be stressful to your german shepherd, and their weight loss could be caused by this. Find out more common reasons your german shepherd may not be eating or what to do if you have an overweight german shepherd! How To Fatten Up A German Shepherd When you notice your german shepherd is underweight then your best choice is to consult a vet and make sure nothing is wrong with them. However, if your vet has given them the all-clear, then here are some great ways you can help your german shepherd gain weight. If this is the case, then you should consider swapping to a different type of food. You should look for foods that are high in protein and fat. Check out the 5 best foods you can feed a skinny german shepherd. Try Puppy Food As well as using high-calorie dog food you could also give your german shepherd food made for puppies. This type of food is designed to sustain a puppy when their growing. If you do plan on feeding your german shepherd puppy food make sure you consult your vet first. Two big meals and one small meal have the added benefit of already being similar to the routine they have now. Secondly, if your German shepherd realizes they can eat whenever they want, they may end up eating even less than before. If you feed your german shepherd to many treats then they may end up being too full to eat their regular meals. Apples, bananas, peanut butter, eggs, and strawberries are all great choices! Giving them peanut butter and cheese is a great way to introduce excess calories in small amounts. However, when giving your german shepherd home-made treats remember there are some foods that are fine for humans but not for dogs. Stay away from chocolate and grapes and make sure you check before introducing anything new to their diet. Add Home-Made Food To Their Meals Chicken and rice is a staple for my dog whenever they have an upset stomach, however, it can also be used as an addition to their regular dog food. As well as chicken and rice you could also try adding egg and pumpkin. Wet food is going to be a lot easier for them to eat, and once they can eat easily they should start gaining weight again! FAQ Here are the answers to your frequently asked questions in relation to a skinny german shepherd! They grow at different rates and oftentimes they may end up being skinny and gangly. You should be able to feel your german shepherd spines, however, you should also be able to feel skin and muscle around it too. A male german shepherd should weigh between lbs and a female german shepherd should be between lbs. This should also be in proportion to their size though. So they do definitely tend to have sensitive stomachs. Cheaper than replacing everything they might break. And definitely cheaper than a lawsuit against you, if they decide to bite someone. And the best part is it also has a day money-back guarantee! You can also check out a full review here , to learn exactly what the course has to offer! Recap As you can see there are plenty of things you can do to help your german shepherd gain weight. There are also plenty of things that may be causing them to lose weight. Give them puppy food as it supports growth. Try feeding them more meals a day or letting them free feed. Give them more treats and try making homemade treats. Add homemade food to their meals such as rice and chicken, peanut butter and pumpkin. Lastly, journal their meals and weigh them regularly. If you liked this article or have any more questions leave them in the comments below, otherwise have a great day! Related Posts:. Why your German Shepherd is skinny It is likely that each of the different reasons will come with some clues. Below, I will show you why it might be skinny and what would make each of the reasons more likely. Genes The reason why your German Shepherd is skinny could be that it is in its genes. This would be more likely if it was relatively skinny as a puppy and if you have been feeding it the right amount according to a vet. In this case, it would not be something to worry about unless it has been showing signs of the cause being due to one of the things mentioned below. Diet The cause of it being skinny could be that it has not been getting the right diet. It could be that it is eating the right foods but it is not getting enough calories for its activity levels. German Shepherds require to calories per day but active ones require to source. On the other hand, it could be the case that it has been eating the wrong foods. You can look here to see what you should and should not be feeding your German Shepherd. If you are unsure of what food to get for your German Shepherd, consider getting dog food designed specifically for German Shepherds. Exercise It could be the case that it is getting too much exercise. However, this is unlikely since German Shepherds were bred to be working dogs and it was not unusual for them to spend entire days working alongside their owners. If your German Shepherd is very active then it would be more likely that it is not getting enough calories. It would help to discuss this with your vet the next time you see them. Illness If your German Shepherd has become skinny suddenly then it might be the case that it has gotten an illness. This would be more likely if it has been showing signs of being ill such as vomiting, being fatigued or a change in its behavior. If it does seem to be ill or it has become skinny suddenly and you have not changed anything in its lifestyle then it would be important to take it to a vet. Anxiety It might be the case that anxiety is causing it to be anxious. This would be more likely if it was not always skinny and it became more skinny since something happened that could be causing it to be anxious. Things that might have caused it to become anxious could include someone mistreating it, moving homes, another pet dying or an owner leaving. Consider whether or not it has always been skinny When trying to figure out what has been causing it to be skinny it would help to consider if it has always been skinny or if it has suddenly become skinny. If it has become skinny suddenly then it would be more likely that it is due to things such as illness, anxiety, suddenly being a lot more active without eating more or a sudden change in its diet. It would help to consider what else happened at around the same time that it became skinny. In this case, it would be important to take it to a vet. If it has always been skinny then it would make it more likely that it is in its genes to be skinny. How to get your German Shepherd to be less skinny The best way for you to get your German Shepherd to stop being skinny will depend on the cause. However, I will show you some options that you have below. Take it to a vet If you are unsure of why your German Shepherd is skinny, it has become skinny suddenly or it has been acting unusually then it would be the best option to take it to a vet. Make sure that it is getting the right diet As mentioned above it could be the case that its diet is the issue. Generally, a German Shepherd should be getting to calories per day unless it is very active in which case it should get up to .You can also look here to see what you should and should not be feeding it. Make sure that it is eating the right amount for its activity level When feeding your German Shepherd it is important to consider how active it is. Generally, a German Shepherd should be getting an hour of exercise per day. If it is getting around an hour of exercise per day then it would be adequate to feed it a regular amount. Whereas, if it is spending most of the day doing exercise then it would be necessary to feed it more. If you want a happy and obedient German Shepherd, this is one of the best online dog training programs available right now. You can get the first month free using This link.

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. Top German Shepherds off championship bloodlines Limerick German Shepherd Age: 3 months 1 Male, 1 Female We are delighted to offer for sale our beautiful, intelligent, well-bred German Shepherd puppies. Born just a few months ago, these alert pups are already showing signs of their brilliant lineage. We have two female and one male puppy, all boasting a striking black and tan coat. Their father, a jet-black German Shepherd with a unique white Mallon streak, is a brilliant guard dog. His lineage includes top protectors from Ireland, England, and Germany, with a sire sheet available for viewing. He also boasts a lineage of show dogs. The mother, a beautiful black and tan German Shepherd, is not only intelligent but also a wonderful guard dog. She too comes from a champion show dog lineage. Both parents are our family pets and can be seen upon your visit. These puppies have been vet checked, wormed, and vaccinated. We are looking for good homes only, preferably with people who have experience with German Shepherds. Located in Limerick. Mother in last picture. I'd prefer a home that Doesn't have kids under 5 About Rufus Rufus is a German Shepherd cross Border Collie who has come into care from the local animal shelter. He is a very quiet and shy boy who will suit a home where he can receive lots of cuddles and with calm folk who understand he has come from a troubled past. Rufus is only 23 kilos so a smaller dog, who is good with other dogs no aggression and has shown no interest in chasing cats. This gentle soul came into care with his tail tucked right up between his legs and was none responsive to voice commands. Slowly his foster carers gently gave Rufus time to come to terms with his new home and fur friend Maggie. This boy has no aggression, just looks pleadingly into your eyes for reassurance. So we are seeking a home with a couple or a single caring person who will persevere with this boys anxiety and given time we can see he will connect and his true loving nature will emerge. Maggie his fur buddy and Rufus are good mates and happily sleep together. Rufus being a border collie x German Shepherd will require secure fencing and definitely a home who will ensure he can sleep inside as he is completely house trained. If you have the patience, caring capacity to continue to bring out the true nature of this gorgeous boy then please ring Linda on .Medical notes Rufus is microchipped, desexed, vaccinated and has been wormed and tick and flea treated. Rufus is on heartworm protection monthly chewable. Watch videos of Rufus.

Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. It is not recommended to take it from its mother and littermates because it starts its socialization and gets the first experience of biting inhibition from them. When you take your doggy home, follow the advice of your breeder and veterinarian. In addition, you need to measure and weigh your pup to be able to follow its growth. You should also think about crate training your dog from the first days of staying at your home. Start potty training as soon as possible. However, be very careful about the first walks. The immune system of a little German Shepherd is too unstable and vulnerable to many infections. It has already received all the nutrients it needed during its first month. You can opt for high-quality puppy kibble or homemade food. However, you should avoid poor-quality products and cheap kibble that is full of chemicals. If you are planning to feed your pet with kibble, it is recommended to moisten it with goat milk or fresh water if this milk is unavailable. Giving it cow milk is not recommended. Give your puppy 1. Try to formulate a consistent feeding schedule with the same hours for feeding. You should have two bowls for your German Shepherd. One is for food and the other for water. Your puppy needs a lot of water, so you can leave the water in the bowl to let it drink whenever it wants. As for food, do not leave the leftovers in the bowl. Your puppy cannot control how much it wants to eat, and it can lead to overfeeding if it eats something every time it sees its bowl. You need to make the feeding schedule work. However, do not feed the puppy two times per day. It is too young for that, so it can overeat too and have severe digestion problems. You should teach it to recognize the connections between commands and responses or responses and consequences. Foremost, you need to set primary anchors. It means that you should develop certain reactions to your actions to teach the puppy to follow you, eat food or receive treats, and sit. Your clapping hands, whistling, or a specific word can be such anchors. Avoid setting anchors that your puppy will feel as similar. The next training step is establishing authority. Your puppy should understand that you are its guide, and it will help you when you start training more complex commands. Your little pet should understand that you are its pack leader. So, the first thing to teach is to follow you. Praise the puppy if it does everything correctly, and never punish it if it does not understand you. Early socialization training is also very important. However, early exposure of your pet to many people and unfamiliar things may lead to psychological problems. That is why start socializing your puppy gradually. You can take it on short visits to your family or friends. Keep socializing your doggy every day but in small portions of positive experiences. Start potty training as soon as you bring your GS puppy home. Show it where you want it to do its business, in the backyard or garden. Ensure that this area is quiet and fenced. It has to be something soft like grass or mat. Establish an exact schedule for going potty. Taking the puppy outside is the first thing you need to do after it wakes up in the morning. Then, follow the schedule after each meal, playing, and before going to bed. Keep the puppy out of biting and nipping. You should not beat or punish it anyway. Though, teach the puppy to avoid severe bites on the hands and legs. You can arrange timeouts for it if it bites too harshly. For example, if it bites your hand while taking a treat, withhold the next treat until it understands how to take it gently. Reward it with a treat when you see that the little one understands what you want of it and denies biting at all. German Shepherds are very clever, so they understand the explanations very quickly. Be patient while training your little dog. It will be trained enough to understand how to control itself by the 10th week. Therefore, your boy will grow as tall as inches cm , while the little girl will be inches cm tall. How much does a 2 month old German Shepherd weight? GS puppies gain weight at this age very quickly. They tend to double it in comparison to the first month. Your male doggy will approximately weigh pounds kg. If you have a female puppy, its weight will be smaller — pounds .How much to feed a 2 month old German Shepherd puppy? You can give your puppy .How often should I feed my 2 month old German Shepherd? You should feed your pup times per day. Never make a feeding schedule of 2 times per day because your doggy can overeat and have digestive problems. How much exercise does a 2 month old German Shepherd puppy need? Little GS puppies are very energetic, so they need a lot of exercises. However, they are too young for hard exercise and training. The sessions can be very short about minutes or less and not too intensive. Can I walk my 2 month old German Shepherd? Yes, you can walk your puppy in the backyard or any other fenced space after it is vaccinated. Though remember that your little doggy cannot go on long walks yet, so never make its walks too long. Another thing to consider is that it cannot follow you yet, so try to avoid going for walks in the open spaces and streets, or your pup can get lost. Learn a lot about the breed before you decide to adopt this dog. You also need to know that your pup will have enough space for its activity and energetic behavior. You also need to consider your budget. Get prepared that your doggy will bark, whale, bite and chew everything around. However, you will also get a lot of joy, playing, laughing, and loyalty. German Shepherds are very intelligent, and you will get the best friend for many years if you are patient and consistent enough during its first days at your home. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog.

See available puppies page All our German Shepherd puppies come with their A. Our adult German Shepherds have been health tested which is very important when producing quality puppies. We only breed dogs who are not at risk for D. Quality Isn't Expensive.It's Priceless. A healthy, well-bred, German Shepherd can save you thousands of dollars and heartache in the long run. Offering World Class Purebred German Shepherd Puppies with superb attitudes, excellent temperaments, great trainability, and wonderful personalities! Puppies receive a Neopar vaccination at 4 weeks, 5-way vaccination at 6 weeks, De-wormed at 2, 4, 6, 8 weeks of age. Puppies are examined by our veterinarian before leaving for their new home and are microchipped and have a 2 year hip guarantee! Our German Shepherd Puppies have world class championship bloodlines! The bloodlines and show lines expressed in these coveted puppies are from "Excellent Select" and "Excellent" rated bloodlines. They are stunningly beautiful and agile, highly intelligent, and structurally correct, with superb and predictable temperaments! Our dogs are always on-site! Only minutes away from Quincy, IL, and just a 2 hour ride from St. Our German Shepherds make great family pets with the added bonus of being a wonderful alarm system which is a great bonus this day in age! Reserve Your Puppy Today! Sign up to receive litter updates, training tips, health related information, and German Shepherd events! Get mini goldendoodle puppies here! This is the price you can expect to pay for the German Shepherd breed without breeding. Puppy litters and dogs for sale, including trained dogs. This location is about 60 miles west of Tulsa and 60 miles north east of Oklahoma City, sitting right between them. I also have full working line German Shepherd puppies for sale that would do well in a working job, SCH, agility, therapy dog, search and rescue, or as a very energetic family member. If you are interested in one of my puppies please call me at home or my cell is .To speak with one of our Family Advi. Dogs and Puppies. Male s and Female s Age: 10 Weeks Old. Serendipity German Shepherd Dog Rescue is a state licensed, incorporated, all-volunteer, c 3 non-profit rescue organization founded in .Free online listings of cute German Shepherds. Americanlisted has classifieds in Springfield, Missouri for dogs. Below you will find all our German Shepherd puppy and litter information - these are the puppies we are expecting shortly, available for the right loving family or person! I fly my puppies on Tuesdays. Join millions of people using Oodle everyday to find unique listings that cannot be found anywhere else. German shepherd dogs puppies for sale 1 - 24 of ads German shepherd dogs puppies for sale Sort by Save your search 3 Pictures German shepherd puppies for sale Pretoria, Gauteng R 2 German shepherd puppies for sale junkmail. Puppies for Sale. This is the price you can expect to pay for the German Shepherd breed without breeding rights. Pet dog obedience also available for lessons or drop-off training. Transportation to Springfield, MO available. Areas United States Missouri Springfield. Nora is one of 7 German Shepherd puppies whelped and available for sale in her litter. Located near Springfield MO. Blakely: German Shepherd puppy for sale near Springfield, Missouri. We are a small family owned farm that is dedicated to breeding, raising and training our family of European German Shepherds. Find German Shepherd puppies in Missouri for sale today. Find Puppies and Breeders in your area and helpful information. What started out as a way to introduce our dogs to you has grown into an extensive. Springfield, MO. Join millions of people using Oodle to find dogs and puppies for adoption and sale. They were bred as a working breed and still carry this work ethic and energy. Talk to us today about our German shepherd puppies for sale. Located in Springfield, MO area. They are quick to learn and can become loyal companions with regular obedience training. Mother became ill while pregnant and had 8 pups. Pomona, MO .Call us at. This beautiful breed is very friendly and affectionate, and they make wonderful pets and family members. One hundred forty-six out of of the animal shelters within Missouri are no-kill shelters. Tags: German Shepherd puppies Colorado Colorado puppies German shepherd puppy near denver adoption puppies German shepherds. Missouri saved 91, dogs and cats during .Find German Shepherd puppies for sale. My husband and I have had German Shepherds for over 30 years. These dogs are very intelligent and you will likely find them loyal as well. German Shorthaired Pointer Puppies. Brandon: German Shepherd puppy for sale near Springfield, Missouri. Our puppies are very socialized, around farmFind home health agencies in Springfield, MO. You will find German Shepherd Dog dogs and puppies for adoption in our Missouri listings. We have German Shepherd puppies and adult-trained dogs for sale. My name is Marnie and I'm a charming sable German Shepherd puppy. The percentage of no-kill shelters is. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. Learn more Breed standard View non-standard puppies available. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since. Pure bred Australian Shepherd female puppy born and raised on our farm. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy. Our giant German Shepherds are taller with a straight back , deeper chest, and larger bone structure. Don't miss what's happening in your neighborhood. Private lessons available in tracking obedience, and protection. We have dedicated our lives to. WindLaufer German Shepherds is situated on 21 acres. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Showing 1 - 19 of 25, results. The puppies in the litter were born on Thursday, November 03, .The results are a big German. Welcome to TeMar German Shepherds. Call or private message me for details. I always enjoy meeting and talking to people that are interested in German Shepherd dogs, as I am. Adults Puppies are capable of learning basic commands, and smart German Shepherd. The cost depends on the lineage of the puppy, breed lines, popularity, pedigree, and much more. However, there are some breeders who may charge more or less depending on the age and rarity of the. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since .Sanders' Precious DN Males: 2. We love German Shepherds and breed only as a hobby so that others can enjoy the love and companionship of a wonderful German. Our puppies are world-class. Finding the perfect German Shepherd puppy has never been easier. The famous Rin-Tin-Tin was actually found. Adopt a friend for life About Us 1 2 3 With your support, we have been able to place so many German Shepherds with their new loving families and forever homes! These dogs are perfect for special needs, families, emotional support, veterans, and more. Just browse our listings of Illinois German Shepherd puppies for sale and you can reserve your pup right there on our site. Vaccine and deworming records will come with the pups. Find German Shepherd puppies for sale Near Illinois German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. Professional training and world class German Shepherd puppies for sale. View Available Puppies. He loves to work, he is also trained in personal protection. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Illinois from trusted …. We're now accepting deposits on our 7 new litters due in April, May, and June of .German Shepherd. German Shepherd Dog. Learn more 1, puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation. Kona is a Kai daughter and a Karo great grand daughter. Now that we have talked about some things to look for when choosing a breeder, lets move on the cost of purchasing a German Shepherd Puppy in Illinois. The reason behind this is that there are many unreputable German Shepherd breeders in Illinois. Contact your breeder to arrange payment and. The mom and dad both have great personalities and regal looks. Very healthy, playful puppies! Find German Shepherd puppies for sale Near Bloomington, IL German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. German Shepherd Rescue, Inc. Search for a German Shepherd Dog puppy or dog. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and. German Shepherd Puppies. Included in the cost of our puppies are a lifetime health guarantee, contingent on meeting criteria stated in the contract , the first year of shots, and a comprehensive dog training program here at our premises in Spring Grove, IL. Their brains, size, and loyalty make. German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. Quoran has a nice a masculine head, sound structure and movement. Illinois German Shepherd Rescue. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. White Star Kennel German Shepherds. We are friendly people to deal with. Tags: cocker spaniel puppies southern Illinois puppies Illinois puppies cocker spaniel cocker spaniel small good kid brown chocolate white brown and white. Learn more puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation Location Color. Breed: German Shepherd Dog. To see more adoptable German Shepherd Dogs in Springfield, Illinois, use the search tool below to enter specific criteria! Find all of the latest info on our puppies page. German Shepherd Puppies for Sale Illinois. We breed and have been breeding German Shepherd Dogs with the intention of helping create family companions for the past 30 years. We are currently accepting deposits for. Pembroke Welsh Corgi Female Tricolor. Breeder experience and reputation can also be significant factors. All our puppies are born here, we never sell them to dog brokers or pet stores we never buy puppies from other people or locations. You may call them at , or visit their website by clicking below to view available puppies. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Bloomington, IL from. Dogs and Puppies, German Shepherd. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Find German Shepherd puppies for sale. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Illinois from trusted. Send us a message for more info! Call Us Today At .All Pedigree German Shepherds puppies are from champion bloodlines and you will not find dogs of a higher caliber anywhere. Learn more 1, puppies available. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. Also she has kind of a bandit… View Details. Dogs in Belleville Illinois. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we. She is a smart, energetic girl who loves to run and belly rubs. Because all breeding programs are different, you may find dogs for sale outside that price range. Find German Shepherd puppies for sale German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. AKC proudly supports dedicated and responsible breeders. Don't miss what's happening in your neighborhood. German Shepherd, Illinois » Kankakee Township. Beautiful markings- 1 white ear, 1 black ear. Learn more 1, puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation Location. Our Long Coat German Shepherds look incredible and are bred from some of the best bloodlines originating from Germany. German Shepherd Puppies for Sale. They are bred with solid nerves, courage, adaptability, intelligence, and instinctual protection skills. We breed German Shepherd puppies and Labrador Retriever puppies. Illinois German Shepherd puppies for sale prices are determined by each dog's individual characteristics, that is to say, color, gender, coat length, and pedigree. Welcome to White Star Kennel! We offer high-quality purebred German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever puppies at affordable prices to loving homes. Take a look our litters page to see the most up-to-date information and to arrange a viewing of our puppies at our premises in Spring Grove, Illinois. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. Its 1black female and 2 black and red males available. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. German Shepherd Puppies For Sale. Now that we have talked about some things to look for when choosing a breeder, lets move on the cost of. Make sure to do research on th MORE. Puppies are still available at Petland Batavia, which is a licensed Dog Dealer. Chicago, Illinois. Regis Regal, top rated breeders in Illinois, provide both short hair and long hair German Shepherd dogs from our. Learn more puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation Location Color Attributes. Pet Classifieds IL Illinois. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets. All our puppies go home at 8 weeks with a full registration to the AKC, are vet checked by a certified veterinarian, Age: 14 Weeks Old. Illinois German Shepherd Classifieds Hoobly. We breed German. We encourage all prospective puppy owners to do their research and be prepared with questions to ask the breeder. Great training! We saw results immediately. Kristi was so engaging and enthusiastic. When Rigby joined our family, enrolling her in DTE was one of our first goals. From our first consultation, Kristi put us at ease and let us know obedience training would not damper Rigby's personality, but rather give us tools to communicate with her and also help us separate "work mode" from play or rest time. We worked with Nerissa for all of our training sessions and loved having personalized attention and goals for each each class. We've also taken full advantage of the group classes and have been able to target some of Rigby's more persistent challenges. DTE has been a wonderful experience for us and something we found beneficial for both humans and canines. Even with just 4 paws, Rigby would give them a 5-paw rating! She has taught us so much and she is great with our dogs. You can tell she loves her job and loves working with dogs. In the future we will probably do some additional training when our 5 month old gets a little older. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite for your dog training, they are the best. If I could give them 10 stars, I would. He started with puppy training and finished fast as a 7 month old service dog with unbelievable skills. Tell me your dog can sit on a paint bucket. Mine can. Contact them now. The trainers are outstanding. My pup and I have meet with Kristi for several months and we couldn't be happier. The training is not just for your dog to learn but also for the owner or handeler. My pup is training to be a service dog and he is off to a great start. I have learned so much along the way as well. I get stopped and complemented about my pup's good behavior all the time. People can't believe how young he is. Before we started training, Daphne 1yr-old, 60lbs, rescue mutt would constantly demand attention by jumping on you, biting at you, etc. After our first session with Kristi, we immediately saw a difference in Daphne. Kristi not only gives you the tools to train your dog, but she also takes the time to explain the why behind them. Every action and command is intentional so you can completely trust that everything she is doing is for the benefit of you and your dog. They are the best!! Maisie was overall a very good girl but she was so anxious about protecting us that she would bark at anyone, everyone and everything! She's a big girl and she has a big bark and it simply wasn't a good first impression. She has such a big squishy loving personality and it just didn't show when she greeted everyone in that way. Kristi gave us the tools to have that under control in week 1. We've moved on to other commands and Maisie is mastering them all. Kristi has given us a full set of tools and skills to teach our fur girl the best of manners and to increase her safety when out and about. The biggest win for me is that she is so much more relaxed and secure about what is going on around her. She can go anywhere now AND she gets to stay home when there's a party! She knows she's special but now she gets to hear from everyone how she's such a good girl! From the moment we began working with Kristi, it was clear that she was the real deal. Our dog Luke had a history of anxiety, nervousness, and bad pulling habits, not to mention previous issues with biting and nipping. In just a matter of months, Kristi worked her magic and Luke has became a true companion dog. Our rescue baby Mabel started having aggressive tendencies. Our sweet baby girl now responds so well to instruction, she is respectful and intelligent. She loves to show off how well she places on fun objects! The entire team is great. Kristi is awesome! I'm a chiropractor and have the pleasure of adjusting Mrs. Kristi; we have several service dogs come in the office, but Gidget is different. The quick responsiveness and obedience of commands is noticeably different and the level of respect, trust, and of course love is amazing. I do not currently have a dog but if I did, Dog Training Elite would have my trust in training him. Keep up the great work! After simply one day working with Kristi, our 1. There is peace in our home and we can enjoy him so much more now. They have helped me with my schnoodle, Domino. 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Imagine you could come home to a lovable, dedicated, companion for life! If you knew what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy, you could find your next best friend. Before you buy your new best friend, read this information so you know what to look for in buying a healthy, quality German Shepherd puppy. I group them into major categories. Will you show him in conformation? Do you want to work with him in Schutzhund or herding? Or do you want a confident and alert companion? Know exactly what you want from your puppy. These dogs are the least costly since they have a trait that prevents them from winning in conformation competitions. These flaws rarely matter to most pet owners. And many minor faults like flat withers or slightly smaller offset ears will probably go unnoticed by most owners. The vast majority of GSDs are family pets. These dogs make great pets as long as they have sound temperaments! They breed some dogs for certain traits that are highly desirable but considered a fault. For example, long-coat or plush-coat GSDs. Show-quality dogs have good temperament and health. You usually buy them for their breed standard qualities that make them able to compete in confirmation or show events. A show-quality dog may cost significantly more if they have the traits desirable to win at a show. This group comes from Championship show lines with a long history of winning. If you plan on showing your Shepherd this is the quality you want. Beware of any breeder who claims they only raise competition-quality dogs. Even the best breeders produce many pet-quality dogs and if a breeder says they only breed perfect dogs, this is a red flag to not buy from them. The GSD is a herding breed, and the working-quality dogs excel at working trials such as scent competitions and Schutzhund. Other work includes climbing and jumping competitions or searching and tracking. They need mental stimulation to keep them occupied and take a lot of time to handle properly. These dogs are better with experienced handlers since you use them for high drive working and competition. They require hours and years of training and preparation for you to have total control during competition. We base this decision on preference. With the correct upbringing and training, both sexes are loyal companions and good with children. They may grow into more dominant dogs, so a confident handler is more desirable. Males may hike their back legs to mark their territory. This can occur on any object — chairs, walls, couches or even your leg. I suggest an extra bout of socialization during this stage, especially with other well-behaved dogs. So they may be better for the first-time owner. Unspayed females come into season every 6 months, so they must receive monitoring and watch to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Their season time can vary from as little as every 4 months to every 9 months. They can attract males to your property and on walks that will harass them if not spayed. Certain breeders and organizations will deal only in a certain coat length and color. The standard coat length is a short coat with double layers. Guard hairs on the top cover a softer underlayer of hair that provides warmth and protection. But there are many coat lengths available depending on your liking. Look online at the different GSD coat lengths to get an idea of what type of fur you want your dog to have. The longer the fur the more grooming involved. The color you choose is a matter of individual taste. Keep in mind the color of many Shepherds alters from their puppyhood to around 2 years of age. Your dog may become lighter or darker. Perhaps they will lose some of their markings as the color fades into the adult pattern. The best way to know what color and patterns your dog grows into is to see the parents of the litter. If the father is unavailable, then ask for photos. Why should you care where your dog comes from if you only want him as a pet companion? You want to get a dog that will live a long and healthy life from a source that has quality puppies. These tips will help you make the best decision on what type of pup fits in your life. Newspaper and Internet Classified Ads Newspaper and internet ads are in abundance. Many backyard breeders hide behind ads online or in local papers. But some breeders who use newspapers and classified ads are reputable and knowledgeable. The problem is you need to visit them to find out, and this can take time to sift through them all. Try the following more reputable suggestions to save yourself time. Dog Care Professionals Ask dog professionals for recommendations. Check with your local veterinarian, groomer, and boarding kennel personnel if they know reputable breeders in town. These professionals are good sources of quality leads. Use the same caution that you will for a classified ad. Verify their suggestions. Many of these organizations regularly receive puppies they need to re-home. While you might not know the full pedigree of the dog, purebred GSDs find themselves in shelters and rescues from no fault of their own. These organizations are a good resource for your first pup. Before adopting, find out as much information as you can. Was the puppy exposed to children? Did he live with other dogs or cats? A well-organized shelter or rescue helps you choose a German Shepherd match for your lifestyle. Start with looking online for GSD rescues and local shelters. Dog Clubs Dog clubs are local and national. These groups put you into contact with registered breeders through their own programs. They can give you the name of the GSD club contact closest to you for breed contacts. Dog clubs also have dog shows open to the public. This is a good time to watch the breed in action and to ask around for quality breeders. While using a dog club to connect you with a reputable breeder is not the only choice, it is one of the more reliable. If you are using a breeder to choose your German Shepherd puppy, this section will help you know the good from the bad. Use these tips to stay safe. Are selling overpriced or under-priced dogs. Lie to you and say you can make money off your new puppy by breeding them, despite them having flaws. Tells you that the GSD is a dog for everyone, with no disadvantages. Breeds multiple types of dogs and claims to be an expert on them all. If a breeder lets their mothers get pregnant more than once a year, this affects the quality of the puppies, so ask how many litters the mother has. These breeders selling unhealthy puppies also will refuse to take bag their dogs if you need to return them for any reason and have no contracts. They have healthy puppies and will answer your questions and have you make multiple visits. Openly show you where the mother and pups spend their time, including their garden or yard. Tells you the up and downs of owning the breed. Have all pedigree and vet paperwork on hand for your review. Specializes in breeding only GSDs source. They openly share this information with you. They have screened their dogs for health issues and can confirm this with documentation which they proudly give you a copy. Healthy mothers are given rest from breeding, and a reputable breeder gives their mothers time off from reproduction. Ask if your breeder if they are willing to take back their dogs if you cannot keep them, as this is standard for a quality breeder with a good reputation. Make sure your breeder has a written contract with detailed information and health guarantees. These are expected for safe breeding practices. How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy Following this guide gives you the best chance of buying a German Shepherd puppy that suits your lifestyle. Know what you want from your GSD and where to find quality dogs. Learn what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy to stay safe from a sick pup and a bad breeder. German Shepherds have their own unique set of challenges. They are a large, active, and intelligent breed that requires an understanding owner who is willing to train their GSD using positive techniques. Devote yourself to their overall health to see the best results and help give you and your dog a lifetime of happiness. Remember, your pup will need mental stimulation to keep their brain active , a gentle exercise program , and need daily love and affection. Buying a German Shepherd puppy is a choice for your whole life that will bring you many years of joy and excitement! Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Check with local veterinarians' offices, animal shelters, pet supply stores, and other area pet business for referrals to dog rescue organizations in your area. Contact one local dog rescue group for referral to other area groups. Some dog rescue groups work with all dogs, while others are breed-specific. Most rescues groups have established networks with other area rescues. The organization's website also provides links to rescue organizations. Although the majority of dogs looking for new homes through rescue groups are adults, sometimes rescue groups have puppies to place. Most German Shepherds looking for homes through rescue groups do not have papers. If registering your puppy is important, or if you intend to enter it into competitions, you will need its title papers and health records, so a rescued dog may not be right for you. Many dog rescues will require a thorough application process in order to assure that you will be a good fit for the dog. Be prepared to disclose your address and whether you own your home, as well as your employment status and your philosophy when it comes to raising a dog. You will want to make sure that the dog's temperament works well with you and your family. Ask whether you can get the dog checked out by your veterinarian. You will want your vet to check the dog's general health and for serious conditions, such as heart murmurs. Be sure to ask about the dog's health while the rescue has had it and if it is up to date on shots and healthcare. A good rescue should actually offer this information upfront. Get a history of the dog's healthcare up to that point. Has it had its first vaccination, had heart worm treatment, and parasite control? These should have all been done before the age when a puppy is adoptable. While many rescue organizations cannot tell you much about the dogs they place, because the dogs have been rescued off the street or they have been given up anonymously, sometimes they have a bit of information. Get all the information you can about the dog's past so that you can assess their general background and health. Dog rescue organizations are usually run on a shoe-string budget. While they depend mostly on volunteers, they do need funds to transport and care for dogs. Your adoption fee will most likely help to pay for the rescue of other dogs in the future. Do further research into these local German Shepherd breed clubs in your area. Whether you get information from their websites or contact them directly for help, local breed clubs are a great way to get the names of reputable breeders in your area. Veterinarians come into contact with a lot of different types of animal care-givers, from breeders to shelters to individual owners. Because they know so much about animal issues in the community, it's a good idea to talk to a few vets in your area for ethical breeder recommendations. Also consider speaking to other German Shepherd owners, dog groomers, or dog trainers. If you visit a breed show, talk to owners and trainers about who they've had good or bad experiences with. A good breeder won't have a variety of breeds available for adoption. Look for a breeder who specializes only in German Shepherds. Your best option is to find a breeder who has years of experience with the German Shepherd breed. They should be able to answer your questions about development, temperament, and training easily and without hesitation. A key marker of a good breeder is the amount of effort they put into early socialization. Puppies need to be taught from an early age to live harmoniously with humans. If a breeder keeps litters isolated away from the home, the puppies will not be used to the sights and sounds of a normal household, and won't be used to human interaction. This can become a problem by the time they are old enough to be adopted. Make sure the puppies spend at least some time in the breeders' home with them. The more time they spend with humans, the more you can trust the breeder. An ethical breeder will never try to breed a female who hasn't reached sexual maturity — about 2 years of age. Mothers should also be given enough time to recover from pregnancies and being separated from their litters as they get adopted. Females should be healthy and alert. Never adopt a puppy from a breeder who breeds a young or unhealthy female, or who doesn't give mothers time to recover before breeding them again. Puppies should never be sold or separated from their mothers before 8 weeks of age. The breeder should have begun the puppies' vaccination and deworming processes before adopting them out. Make sure that's happened, and ask about any health problems the vet may have reported in these early checkups. Ask if the breeders have their dogs tested for the Degenerative Myelopathy DM gene. This can determine whether a common inherited disease in German Shepherds is present in the litter's bloodline. Dogs with DM suffer from progressive paralysis, particularly in the hind legs. Note that being AKC-registered does not mean that you are getting a healthy animal. It means that the owner paid money to the AKC to register the dog. While experts recommend against breeding animals with known genetic problems, an OFA certification will give you proof. Be aware, though, that there's no guarantee of health in any animal. There's always a chance that two dogs free of known genetic diseases can still produce a puppy with genetic problems. The breeder should be evaluating you as a potential owner, just as you're evaluating him or her as a breeder. No good breeder will just hand over a puppy without being sure that the new owners will be able to provide it with a good, healthy life. Ask the breeder what they look for in a good owner, and whether they've ever turned potential owners away. The breeder should be able to answer these questions without even having to think about it. You might also ask the breeder for references so you can contact other families who have dogs from previous litters. A reputable breeder should ask questions about your dog background and experience, your lifestyle, and your family to guide you in making the best decision. As difficult as it may be, a good breeder will be willing to turn you away if they think you're a bad fit for their particular puppies. For example, if the litter has particularly inactive parents, the puppies may not be a good fit for your highly active lifestyle. If you get turned away, ask if the breeder can point you to other options and litters so you can expand your search. Also ask if they have any unborn litters coming up that may be a better fit for you. Be patient and don't get discouraged. With enough patience and legwork, you'll find the right puppy. Don't lie to a breeder just to get a puppy, though. Trust the breeder's decision-making process. You don't want to end up with a dog who doesn't fit your needs. Avoid any breeder who offers to cut you a "deal," who has unclean or smelly kennels, or who acts suspiciously in any way. Trust your instincts. A breeder who's in it just for the money has the wrong motivation, and likely isn't interested in the welfare of their dogs. Make sure the dogs are not crowded into cages. They should have plenty of room to stumble around and explore their surroundings. Part of the time, puppies should be kept in the home to expose them to household environments. There should be adequate food and water for all animals on the premises. Kennels should be cleaned daily. Although it may be that a dog had an accident just before you arrived, be suspicious of a kennel that looks like it hasn't been cleaned recently. If a breeder doesn't have a return policy, it suggests they don't really care what happens to their dogs once they leave their property. That's not a good sign! Also find out what kind of documentation you would get with your puppy. Would you get registration papers and pedigree papers? Negotiate for what you want if it's not included in the contract. Be very wary of a breeder who will not discuss the chance that a puppy may need to be returned. Does the contract require you to take the puppy for a vet visit within a set time? Does it cover hereditary issues for life? For only a certain period of time? What does the breeder agree to offer? Trade for another puppy when one is available? Are there restrictions on the activities you can do with your dog that will invalidate the contract or guarantee? Are you purchasing a show prospect puppy or a pet quality animal? Does the breeder have strong feelings or even bans about the vaccinations, foods or supplements for your puppy? Are these opinions based on solid science? Final Thoughts How To Buy a German Shepherd When buying a German Shepherd, know what to look for in a reputable breeder, find a breeder specializing in German Shepherds, evaluate the breeder, consider the price and your budget, and choose the sex, type, color, and coat of the German Shepherd puppy. Checklist to buy a GSD 1. Know What To Look For in a Reputable Breeder The German Shepherd is a popular dog breed, and the growing demand for this breed has registered a corresponding growth in the number of breeders. But the increase in the number of breeders has also raised eyebrows about how some dog breeders meet their purpose. So, what should you look for in a German Shepherd breeder? When buying a German Shepherd, look for a breeder with experience and credibility. Check the litter and their living conditions. When researching how to buy a German Shepherd, the first thing to know is there are different types of breeders. While some people breed dogs with the good intention of providing healthy pets to those seeking to own a dog, others breed them with the primary purpose of profit-making and, in some cases, in deplorable conditions. Freedom from discomfort: the dog has a favorable environment for shelter that includes appropriate bedding, favorable temperatures, and extreme light and noise protection. Freedom from pain, injury, and disease: the dog has the required vet visits for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disease, including recommended vaccinations and tests. Freedom to express normal behavior: the dog has enough space and facilities and can express it through stretching, jumping, running, and playing, and can interact with other dogs as desired. Freedom from fear and distress: the dog is treated in a manner that does not cause psychological stress. This could be done by avoiding overcrowding and providing overall safety. Dogs bred following these five freedoms will have a more enjoyable and successful life once placed in the care of an owner or family. Following these freedoms also distinguishes ethical breeders from unethical ones. As a prospective dog owner, you must acquire all the information that confirms your future pet has been bred following these five freedoms and, thus, by an ethical breeder. But how exactly do you find that breeder? I discuss some of the most reliable ways and others that will need you to do a more thorough search and breeder evaluation. National Kennel Clubs National kennel clubs are a reliable source of information for buying German Shepherds. You can access information on each listed dog regarding their age, sex, weight and height, personality, AKC DNA test number, energy level, shedding, and trainability, among other features and traits. Here, you can access the breed parent club website in this case, the German Shepherd Dog Club of America and a breeder referral name where you can get help and information. Kennel clubs are resourceful when looking for a German Shepherd in other countries. In the UK, for example, the Kennel Club operates an Assured Breeder Scheme in which you can find a comprehensive and current list of Kennel Club Assured Breeders and other breeders with pedigree puppies. Only KC-registered puppies are advertised on the platform. So, you will find all the information you need about the particular breed you are interested in. In the US, the German Shepherd Dog Club of America has a Classified Ads section on their website where you can search through breeder and puppy ads to find what you are looking for. Also, the club advises that one of the best ways to find quality German Shepherd Puppies to buy is by contacting the German Shepherd regional breed clubs. The clubs have plenty of training, sporting, and dog show initiatives during the year. Some regional or state clubs provide services for GSD rescue and referral. For example, on the Treasure Coast German Shepherd Dog Club website, you will find information on breeder referral and rescue, and you can contact them by email to send details of your inquiry. Charitable Organizations Charitable organizations that deal with dogs carry out rescue, care, and rehoming services. They are optimal options for finding a German Shepherd when you want to rescue or adopt. There are plenty of German Shepherd charitable organizations that can provide reliable information on buying or adopting a German Shepherd Dog. On the Meet Our Dogs section of their website, you can search through available GSDs to determine if you would be interested in adopting. According to the organization, their adoption fees are extremely low and will not cover half of the costs incurred on the rescued GSDs. Dog Blogs and Websites Outbound links that direct you to GSD breeders or puppies for sale on blogs and websites are also options. As with the Google search, you also need to evaluate the reliability of the linked breeder and the quality of the German Shepherd puppy using the ethical breeder guidelines. Consult Vets, Groomers, Trainers, and Owners Veterinarians, groomers, and trainers are experts in their own right — considering that they interact with German Shepherds on a day-to-day basis. They may also work for breeders and will, therefore, know which ones have high breeding standards. German Shepherd owners who have a positive experience buying their pet from a reliable breeder would also be dependable sources of information on where to buy a GSD. In all cases, ensure that there is no conflict of interest with people advocating for breeders on other factors rather than quality. You should now evaluate the breeder on various breeding issues before buying a German Shepherd. Evaluate The Breeder To make out if a breeder is ethical , observe their environment and question them about the following breeding aspects: Experience in breeding German Shepherds: Enquire if the breeder has been in the breeding career for long or just starting. Those who have been in the breeding practice for a long time will explain their experience with instances of success and give you verifiable examples of people they have sold German Shepherds to. Breeder credibility: It is expected that a credible breeder will be registered with the national kennel club and be a member of local or national breed clubs. Bloodline and dog health: Health conditions and genetic defects are easily passed on through the bloodline. Enquire whether the parents are registered with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals OFA and if the litter has had its first round of vaccinations seek specific details about the vaccinations. Also, check to see if they have been dewormed. Learn More on How To Choose a German Shepherd Breeder… Choosing a GSD Breeder: HOW TO Breed temperament: Enquire about the typical traits of the breed to find out if the breed will be good for your family context, whether your newly acquired GSD will be good with children or if the breed gets along with other dogs, and if it will do well in an apartment environment among other specifications. If you have done your homework, you will already know the answers to these questions — and so should the breeder! Dog appearance: Ask to see the entire litter and the parents. The general appearance of the German Shepherds should indicate that they are healthy and well-nurtured. The breeding space should not be smelly and unkempt, and the German Shepherds should not be crowded in small kennels. These negatives could be the first indications of a puppy mill. Also, enquire about the possibility of returning the German Shepherd should you be unable to keep him for any reason. While these aspects will give you the necessary information to weigh up the reliability of a breeder, it is expected that an ethical breeder wants the best for the dog they are selling you. They should ask questions to ensure that the dog is in good hands. These questions will single them out as ethical breeders and several other characteristics that show they care about their breed. Characteristics of Ethical German Shepherd Breeders When buying a German Shepherd, an ethical breeder will stand out in the following aspects: They will be knowledgeable about the German Shepherd breed. This will be manifested in their comprehensive knowledge of the breed standard, nutrition, exercise, temperament, and grooming. The ethical breeder will answer questions on any of these aspects precisely and without getting impatient with you. They will not sell you the German Shepherd puppy before they are eight weeks old. Puppies younger than that are still heavily dependent on their mother, and it would be too soon to separate them. Note, however, that the best age to bring home a puppy is at weeks. They will give you references. For example, reliable vets and other people who have bought puppies from them. They will also be ok referring you to other breeders for a comparative experience. They will ask you about your lifestyle and family. They want to ensure that the German Shepherd puppy is going to a loving and caring home. For example, the vaccines and tests that have been done. They will also give you specific details on training, nutrition, and vet care. They will be keen to guarantee the safety of the German Shepherd. By asking you to sign a contract, giving you tips on good care for the dog, promising to call to find out how the puppy is doing, and soliciting you to ask any questions, you might have, even after taking the puppy home. They will give you information to register the German Shepherd with the national kennel club and with other national and local breed clubs. While ethical breeders will stand out in these aspects, unethical breeders will show shortcomings in their care for the breed. Shortcomings of Unethical German Shepherd Breeders The most common representation of unethical dog breeders are those found in what is dubbed as puppy mills in the US or puppy farming in the UK and Australia. But backyard breeders are also considered part of this category of breeders. The breeder will be reluctant to show you their kennels and breeding facilities except for the puppy you are interested in. If breeders show you their kennels, you will notice that the dogs are enclosed in neglected and overcrowded kennels without enough space to sit, sleep, stand, or stretch. The breeder will not ask about you, your lifestyle, your family, or the reason you are interested in a German Shepherd Dog. The litter and their parents will appear malnourished, indicating they have scanty access to healthy food and fresh water. The dams may be continuously bred at the expense of their health. The puppies will be taken away from their mothers early, often before they are six weeks old. The breeder may not have the patience to answer your questions about their breeding standards and the lineage of their dogs. Both puppies and adult dogs may show signs of disordered behavior, such as fear of the breeder, a sign they may be maltreated. Consider The Price and Your Budget When you think of buying a German Shepherd, the buying price is one of the key aspects you should consider. So, how deep will you need to dig into your pocket to bring your GSD puppy home? What is the price of a German Shepherd? Prices are determined by lineage, litter size, color, breeder qualifications, breeding costs, and location. Puppies with the highest prices are from a top pedigree or are show quality. My in-depth article, How Much is a German Shepherd? Instead, if you go by breeder websites from a Google search, you will find a wide range of price differences. Alternatively, if you decide to adopt from rescue centers, you will certainly pay a lot less. These are extremely important because they take care of the specific characteristics you want to find in your new puppy. Show, Working, or Companion German Shepherd? Being clear about why you want to own a German Shepherd is key in making the buying decision. This is also important so you can inform your breeder whether you are looking for a family dog, a competition, a show, or a guard dog. You can learn the differences between working line and show line GSDs in this article. Even though an entire litter will have the same bloodline, knowing the purpose of acquiring a dog will inform your choice to go for ethical breeders keen on issues related to health, temperament, and other traits that would be good to keep in mind when making a purchase. While Male and female German Shepherds are similar in many traits, they are also different in a number of them, which might affect your choice when buying. Consider what you want the dog for and your experience when determining whether to purchase a male or female German Shepherd. If you want a guard dog, go for a male because they are more dominant and aggressive. Please note, these are approximations as individual dogs will vary. Males will portray a masculine build as opposed to the delicate features of the female. Female GSDs will be in heat twice annually. If you do not intend to breed your pet, you should consider spaying her. Female GSDs live longer .These traits may not be vividly pronounced in young puppies, but it is important to bear them in mind. Whether you choose to buy a male or female pup will depend on your circumstances, such as experience, lifestyle, and purpose for the dog. You can check out this article, Male vs. Female German Shepherd. It has loads of info to help you decide which one will be best for you. Read more about the German Shepherd colors here. You may not be able to choose from the entire range of colors, but you know the extent of the variety that you can have. White German Shepherds are stunning-looking dogs, and if you are interested in this unique color, head over to my article all about the White German Shepherd. This is particularly important if you were looking for a show dog, as a white dog is disqualified from showing in many countries, and you will need to check the breed standard for your area. You will also need to decide on the German Shepherd coat and whether you want a standard coat length or the less common long-haired variety. Whatever you choose, German Shepherds are heavy shedders. Ask the breeder for a detailed list, and this will help in picking up the right and pure-bred German Shepherd puppy. Final Thoughts Buying a German Shepherd is a dream that many dog lovers have, but that may be hindered by a lack of information about important buying knowledge. To learn how to buy a German Shepherd, here is a summary of the key points: Consult national kennel clubs and national and regional breeder clubs to identify reliable breeders who are ethical, knowledgeable, and care about their dogs. Before purchasing, weigh up your buying choice on factors such as the sex of your German Shepherd, the coat color, traits, and the reason you are opting for the breed. Consider adopting a rescue dog where you can go to meet the dog and find out about his traits beforehand. Good luck with getting your quality German Shepherd, who I know you will treasure for many years to come! Related Posts You May Like:. This guide will help you learn how to select the best German Shepherd puppy to add to your family. Is a German Shepherd right for me? This is the first question you should ask yourself before you even consider bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy. You need to evaluate your personal and family lifestyle by asking yourself the following questions: Where do you live? German Shepherds are often on the restricted breed list for apartments. Do you spend much of your time at home, or do you have an active work and social life? Are you willing to spend more time at home on the weekends and evenings during puppyhood, even if it means missing social events? Do you love traveling a lot? If so, will you take your puppy with you? If not, do you have someone or someplace you trust to watch your dog when you travel? Is your whole family excited about the idea of a new German Shepherd puppy? Are you already active or willing to become more active? Do you have time in your schedule to devote to training? Knowing the answers to those questions will help get you a couple of steps closer to deciding whether or not a German Shepherd is the right choice for you. Important things to know about German Shepherds: German Shepherd dogs are sometimes affectionately known as German shedders. German Shepherds shed all year long , however, they blow their coats twice a year during which time they will shed exponentially more. When considering getting this breed, you should be comfortable having a dog that sheds. Trimming their nails , cleaning their ears, brushing their teeth, and brushing their coat regularly is sufficient. Of course, during the shedding seasons more frequent brushing will be needed. German Shepherds were originally developed for herding sheep. Accordingly, they have the desire to work and respond best to proper training from a young age, and an active lifestyle. German Shepherds are known to be clingy, so be prepared to have a shadow following you around the house and maybe even in the restroom. German Shepherds are good with kids and are great family dogs. However, they need proper socialization and training at a young age so they can learn how to behave around both kids and adults. German Shepherds require a lot of mental stimulation and have high energy levels, especially as a puppy. As much as I love Allie, she was more than a handful as a puppy. I have seen instances where people underestimate the time, energy, and training a German Shepherd puppy requires and get overwhelmed after bringing their puppy home. These people end up giving up their puppies. It breaks my heart to know these awesome dogs are given up because of a lack of knowledge when selecting a breed of dog. Although they are a handful if you are willing to put in the effort they are in my opinion one of the best breeds of dog to own. German Shepherds are too smart for their own good. They learn things scary fast and sometimes get themselves into trouble because of how smart they are. They learn your routine and habits, and they also learn when and how they can get away with mischief. German Shepherds are incredibly loyal and become very connected to their owners and family. German Shepherds are typically loving and affectionate. From the second I met Allie she greeted me with a wet tongue to the face. That is still her favorite greeting she will kiss anyone that will allow her to get close enough. German Shepherds need training. They need to know that you are the leader and in charge. If not, they will quickly take over the role of being in charge and that is where problems arise. A bored, untrained, not active German Shepherd can become one of the stories you sometimes hear on the news about a GSD being aggressive. In most of those cases, the problem was with the owners and not the dog breed as a whole. Adoption or Breeder? First, you need to decide if you are going to adopt a German Shepherd puppy or buy one from a breeder. Here are some of the benefits of adopting: Rescue puppies are often already sociable, at least partially trained, and loving dogs. Therefore, you will save a lot of time on house training your new puppy. Older puppies or dogs are likely to be calmer than a younger puppy. You are saving the life of a dog that might not have otherwise found a home. The cost of adopting is typically much cheaper than buying a puppy from a breeder. If you decide to get a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder, here are a few things that can help you identify a good, ethical German Shepherd breeder: Ethical breeders care about the health and wellbeing of the puppy and are not just in the business for money. Ethical breeders always make sure that only healthy dogs breed together and follow a strict breeding program where they ensure that breeding and puppy spaces are clean. They should also have papers showing the age of the parent and the family tree of the puppy. Ethical breeders will happily show you around their entire setup; they should have nothing to hide. Ethical breeders will happily answer as many questions as you have to ask. You want to select one that will be compatible with you and your family. Consider the following when picking a puppy from the litter: Choose a puppy that is sociable around you and other puppies. Pick a puppy that walks confidently with its head high and tail up and wagging. Choose a puppy that has clear eyes, ears , and teeth, walks evenly, and appears clean. Basically, choose a puppy that looks healthy. Look at the personalities of the puppies. Choose a welcoming puppy that wants to greet you as opposed to one that retreats or appears shy. Ask to interact with each puppy one by one after seeing them with their littermates. That way you can get a better sense of how the puppy responds to you without distractions. If possible, visit the litter at least three times before making a final decision, this will allow you to determine the personalities of each of those little fluff balls, and see which would best fit into your family. How old should a German Shepherd puppy be when you take it home? Any puppy should be at least 8 weeks old before being separated from their mother. By this timeline, their sensory organs will have also developed fully which will help you to spot any deformities or medical issues. Be wary of any breeder that will allow you to take your puppy home before 8 weeks old. How do you puppy proof for German Shepherds? German Shepherds are naturally active and tend to explore the world with their mouths, especially during their adolescent period. So, before you can bring your new puppy home, there are a few things you can do to puppy-proof your house: Get rid of any poisonous plants or put them out of reach of your new puppy. Cover electrical cords with cable wraps or PVC pipes. Buy a new laundry basket that has a lid, no holes, and is tall. Make sure both your kitchen and bathroom trash cans have lids. Your new puppy will dig around for anything to bite, like chicken bones, diapers, used hygienic products, or even a disposable razor. If possible, you should buy new trash cans that only open when a button is pressed. Store all the chemicals in secured cabinets or even better on high shelves. German Shepherd puppies have strong teeth and can open plastic containers by biting through even the toughest of plastic! Put away any small items or toys that are small enough for your puppy to swallow. Think of small kid toys like Legos or dollhouse furniture that could be dangerous for a curious puppy. Find a safe spot for your shoes. Whether in a closed closet or in the laundry room behind a closed door. I remember losing a pair of brand-new shoes because I forgot to put them away and Allie thought chewing them was a fun idea. Bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy The period of bringing a new German Shepherd puppy home and introducing them to your home and family takes time and above all, patience. If possible, plan to take off work for at least a few days after bringing your puppy home. I picked up Allie on a Saturday, and then took most of the following week off to spend time getting her adjusted to her new home. Remember, your new puppy has been taken from the only family it knew, and you are now their new family. That first week home was a good week of bonding with Allie. It helped her feel comfortable with her new life and allowed me to really get to know my new beautiful energy filled puppy. The best tip for a smooth transition when bringing your German Shepherd puppy home is to begin crate training and potty training as soon as possible. As a breed prone to separation anxiety , you want to give your GSD a zone to feel safe, comfortable, and content to be on their own. While the initial steps of crate training can be time-consuming, it can make the difference between a dog that is a joy to own, and one that can never be left on their own — so, be the dog parent your pooch deserves and put the time in! New German Shepherd puppy checklist and things to buy It is important that your new puppy feels welcomed into their new home. Some items are ok to be left with your puppy, and other items are more dangerous or will be destroyed. This checklist will help you to know what to buy when getting a puppy. New German Shepherd Puppy Checklist. This request is typically accompanied by also wanting a list of questions to ask the German Shepherd breeder. Based on this feedback I wanted to give you the ultimate list of questions to ask, plus any warning signs that should make you walk away without buying. Not just warning sings about the German Shepherd puppy, but also her mother and the breeder too. Things to know before buying a German Shepherd puppy The moment you see that adorable German Shepherd puppy for the first time, the feeling will last with you forever. It certainly did with me when we first met our own dog. Just take a step back for a second. I wish we had, but luckily, our dog ended up being ok, but it could have been very different: German Shepherds and any puppies can have health problems be sold by unscrupulous breeders. With their long noses, furry bodies, and sparkling eyes, they will tug at your heart strings. You will be tempted to just take that German Shepherd puppy and go. But please, please, please… before you do that, here are some important things you should check before you pay your money. Your German Shepherd will become a huge part of your life, but make sure you know what to look for before you buy a puppy. Read these before you spend the money. By doing this due diligence you should hopefully get a puppy that not only fits your family and lifestyle, but also lives a long and happy life. You want to choose one that has a track record, online reviews, and a good reputation in the German Shepherd world… not some first timer nobody has heard of. Be suspicious of low prices: If the German Shepherd puppies are advertised as a lower than average price, be wary. The old adage about if it looks too good to be true is almost always the case with puppies. Low prices can be a sign of an unhealthy litter. Find out how many litters the mother has had already: German Shepherd mothers should not have anything more than one litter each year. The best scenario would be a litter every couple of years. More pregnancies than this mean she has been over-bred and both her and the puppies could have health problems. Look out for serious conditions and hereditary issues including hip and spine issues, soft palate issues, eye problems, and hearing problems. I would recommend getting a puppy from a German Shepherd older than this just to be sure. Before 8 weeks of age, they should still be with her, and it can also help you understand what type of dog your puppy will grow up to be. If the breeder refuses access to the mother, walk away. Ask where the puppies have been living: If the German Shepherds have been in a dark garage away from human interaction it will mean they will be harder to socialize and harder to train. Ask how often the German Shepherds have been handled: When puppies are regularly handled by humans, they will be much easier when taken home. Ask whether a vet has checked the puppies: Puppies should have been checked by a vet and had their first set of vaccinations before going to their new home. Ask to speak to a previous buyer:A reputable breeder will let you talk to people who have bought a German Shepherd puppy from them before. If they are unable to supply references and contacts, they could be hiding something. I hope you find these questions to ask a German Shepherd breeder helpful. Please do print them off before you visit the litter and decide to buy. The personality of the German Shepherd breeder This is so often over-looked, but I wanted to add it on as something to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy. Only buy a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder who is prepared to take the time to answer any questions and concerns you might have. Breeders that treat buyers with respect will most likely extend that kindness to the German Shepherd mother and her puppies. This gives you an indication of what health problems could in store. Puppies can sometimes have the following conditions: Allergies. Where to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy There are several things you need to keep in mind when searching for your new German Shepherd puppy. Most importantly, you will want to buy from an ethical breeder. An ethical breeder is someone who is knowledgeable about the breed, active in German Shepherd groups, organized with specific questions and answers and is not associated with a puppy mill, which mass produces puppies for profit with no regard for their health and well-being. You will want to avoid at all costs an unethical person, organization, or place. They will say whatever they think you want to hear in order to convince you to buy from them, even if it is untrue or exaggerated. It may be hard to turn away from a puppy if you have already started dealing with a seller whom you realize is unethical. But keep in mind that any purchase from an unethical seller only encourages that person. Signs of an Ethical Breeder So, what exactly should you look for when you set out to vet a breeder? They try to match your personality: Reputable breeders care that their puppies are placed in the best homes for them. They want you to spay or neuter: Ethical breeders are very careful when they choose two parents to breed a litter. In order to ensure the continued health of the breed, as well as of the puppy itself some otherwise healthy dogs might have genetic traits that make breeding unwise or dangerous , they will ask that you agree to have the puppy neutered or spayed. They ask you to sign a contract: This contract may include a guarantee against health problems, as well as a clause that stipulates you need to notify the breeder if you find yourself unable to care for your dog any longer, among other things. They are lifelong learners: They are knowledgeable about diseases and genetic problems affecting German Shepherds, such as elbow and hip dysplasia. They keep themselves up-to-date on the latest information and treatments. There are also several things an ethical breeder might give you. These may include: Health documents: Many reputable breeders will have screened their puppies for elbow and hip trouble prior to selling. Registration papers: Ethical breeders will have already registered with, or else will provide you with an application to register with, The American Kennel Club. Eating schedule: How much food has the breeder been feeding their puppies? When do they feed the puppies, and what type of food do they use? A trustworthy breeder will be able to provide you with an eating schedule so that you can continue this important routine for your puppy uninterrupted. Signs of an Unethical Breeder On the other hand, an unethical breeder may: Be ignorant: They might know very little about the history of the German Shepherd breed. More importantly, they might be ignorant of ailments and genetic defects common to German Shepherds. They might deny that German Shepherds are prone to any afflictions at all, which is not true. Be uninvolved: Is your breeder a member of any dog clubs or associations? Are they active in any canine sports? Anyone who does not love the dogs they breed or sell should be avoided. Be evasive: Will your breeder let you see the puppies? Be disinterested in you: A reputable breeder will ask you lots of questions before agreeing to any sale see below. They may also be expecting many questions from you. The best thing to do is to weed out such unconscientious people as soon as possible. If you know what to look out for, you might save yourself time and headaches. Be wary of any ads that: Cite American Kennel Club registration as a bonus: Reputable breeders will provide you with AKC papers or an application automatically. There is nothing special about a breeder who touts themself as having AKC-registered pups. That is only what they should have. Anyone who boasts of AKC registration may be trying to prey on ignorant buyers who are impressed by the mention of an official-sounding organization. Extra large! Best to stay away altogether. Tell you that you can meet both of the parents: This one is a little tricky, but worth mentioning. It is unlikely that a breeder will have both the perfect sire and the perfect dam in their own kennels. There might be an understandable explanation, however. If nothing else in the ad alarms you, it might be worth contacting the breeder and asking. If you receive them, move on. How to Find an Ethical Breeder Now you know the signs and what to avoid, but where do you begin to look for the right seller? Start with whom you know: Reaching out to trusted members of your own network is one of the best places to begin. Talk to dog-owning members of your circle to learn how they found their pups and ask if they have any advice. Even if they themselves are not German Shepherd owners, they might have helpful tips or know someone who does. Cold-calling a veterinarian who has not been recommended is not a good idea, but a vet trusted by someone close to you is more likely to be reputable and may know ethical breeders. Visit a dog show: Many conscientious breeders raise German Shepherds who become show dogs. If a dog is a show dog, odds are, its owner takes good care of it. After all, these dogs are being judged as the best-of-the-best. Attending a dog show as an audience member will give you the opportunity to see for yourself how the breeder interacts with their dog. You can get a feel for how they treat their animals before making contact. Filter by state and then scroll until you find one who breeds German Shepherds. Places to Avoid It may go without saying, but Craigslist should not be part of your search. Unfortunately, many puppies listed on the site are part of puppy mills, which you should never, ever support with your money. The same holds true for pet stores. Finally, stay away from any websites that offer to ship you a dog inexpensively. The next step is getting to know this person and their German Shepherds better, so you can take home the perfect pup for you. When you meet a breeder, you will want to ask them: Have You Tested the Puppy? As noted above, many reputable breeders will have screened their puppies for elbow and hip dysplasia and should be able to provide you with a report from the OFA, SV, or PennHIP. The only way to know for certain that a puppy is healthy is to have it tested. A puppy will need a few rounds of shots, but it should have had its first round before it goes home with you. A German Shepherd puppy should have specific vaccinations by a certain age. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available. German Shepherds are highly intelligent, loyal and loving. For example, shepherds require consistent mental and physical exercise and prefer not to spend long hours alone. If you travel regularly, a shepherd might not be the best breed for you. Additionally, German shepherd puppies require consistent socialization early on and throughout their lives. This ensures problem behaviors do not have a chance to develop. In other words, buying a German Shepherd requires commitment on the part of the owner. Yet, that commitment pays off in years of loving and loyal companionship. Are you considering adding a German Shepherd to the family? Experienced GS breeders have in-depth knowledge of the breed and are committed to producing top quality pups. Like all purebreds, German shepherds are prone to genetic disorders. Shepherds, for example, are at a high risk for hip dysplasia. Ultimately, choose a breeder that you can trust, that has references and a clean facility, and that has years of experiencing breeding German shepherds. Problems arise when shepherds do not have an outlet for their intelligence. Fortunately, training and regular physical and mental exercise will ensure your GS pup is happy and engaged. Start by having a training plan in place prior to purchasing a German Shepherd puppy. Obedience classes too can be a helpful bonding experience that will keep your puppy engaged and build trust. Additionally, plan to provide regular exercise for your dog. German shepherds love long walks and opportunities to expend pent-up energy. Dog sports and agility classes are one choice for helping your shepherd burn some of that unused energy. Yet, German shepherds do not behave like this. They show loyalty to a particular person but are suspicious or indifferent to strangers. This shyness can develop into aggressive or territorial behaviors if the dog is not properly socialized. Be prepared to introduce your shepherd to different situations, people and other animals as a puppy and continually throughout its life. In fact, some experts recommend introducing your GS puppy to up to new people and 50 different locations within the first 12 weeks of life. A German shepherd that has not been properly socialized may wrongly assume a delivery man or lawn mower is a threat. Yet, that hard work pay offs; shepherd puppies provide years of loving companionship and serve as a loyal and devoted family members. But before you make the leap, make sure you understand the unique needs of the breed. First, choose a reliable German shepherd breeder with a track record of producing top quality dogs. Then, be prepared to provide consistent mental, physical and emotional stimulation throughout its life.

The vast majority of pigeon-chested dogs have perfectly normal, happy lives. The dogs starring in this article are Pepper and Ginger. Their bones grew abnormally in the womb. Frenchies are one of the breeds with a greater risk of having this deformity. Most often, when Pepper or Ginger have this problem, other dogs in their family line have it as well. This is the more complex of the two. In this case, the breastbone looks like a Z with the top of the Z pushing outward. The other letter condition is Chrondrogladiolar prominence. This is far more common. If Ginger has this, it looks as if the lower breastbone is pushing outward. Pectus carinatum is a disfigurement of the rib. It looks like the chest bows outward instead of having the normal curve. The manubrium the front of the breastbone comes to a point. Your vet can feel this bone even when your puppy is young. Females like Ginger can count themselves lucky as they are less likely to develop this problem. A pigeon-chested French Bulldog may have other physical abnormalities. One is having short ribs. He may have a very thin waist as well. Now for some good news. As they grow, you and your vet can watch to make sure things stay as they are. If the condition is more pronounced, your vet may suggest physical therapy for your Frenchie. What about Surgery? It is only in the worst cases that Ginger might undergo surgery to fix the problem. This entails removing the affected bone and swapping it out with a fiberglass cast. Hey, they can rebuild dogs much like some human parts. If Ginger was having difficulty breathing before, she should show improvement. When you bring Ginger home, she will be sore. Take her out briefly for a potty stop, but then return her to her cave. During recovery, Ginger may receive painkillers and antibiotics. See also Does Jif Have Xylitol? Inbreeding worsens the risk factors. Talk to your vet about the problem and recommended treatments to make them feel good and live full lives. If, however, the condition was noticed afterward, you should notify that breeder. Someone should never breed a dog with a pigeon chest. At this juncture, you should have a conversation with your breeder as to why this happened, and what steps they are taking to rectify matters. If you plan to keep the pooch, you may be able to get some type of refund. There appears to be a general correlation between pectus carinatum and brachycephalic dogs flat-faced canines. Pepper and Ginger reach maturity between months. So, whatever their condition at this time remains lifelong. As a dog ages, they may have other conditions that, when coupled with Pigeon Chest, could affect the quality of life for your pooch. Pepper and Ginger will get along fine so long as you remain aware of their limitations. Unlike other French Bulldogs, they will not be going on long walks. Shorten them and stop when the pup seems tired. If need be, pick Ginger up and carry her home. Love them like you would any new fur baby in your home. Post Views: 1, Cjcarol said: Hi we have a new puppy. We have had her for a month. She is now 12 weeks. She was very lethargic so we took her to the vet. She was ok but the vet thought her chest was concerning so he took some xrays. Found she has pectus excavating my research not vets diagnosis. Her heart is more vertical and seems to be sitting at the bottom and her trachea is dropped because of the heart. We have an appt. We did get her from a breeder and had an intention of possibly breeding her. That is out of the question now as it is congenital. We are heartbroken at the thought of having to return her. In my research I never came across this condition. Is it common? Should the breeder have noticed it? She was taken to the vet for 1st shots and I thought an exam. There is a guarantee. We will contact her after we get the second opinion I am not looking to fault anyone just looking for more information. Click to expand.I was wondering if there was any update on this? Did you return her to her breeder after all? We are currently dealing with the same thing. We have our first vet appointment in a few days and we will hopefully get our answers there. But if it turns out that he does have this deformity we are not sure what to do. We signed a contract with the breeder and in that contract it states that we could return the puppy if it turns out to have a congenital disease which if the vet diagnoses him with this then it falls under that clause. I also read that there are some complications with this deformity as their chest is too narrow for their heart and lungs as they mature and sometimes their life span is cut short. We are already attached to the pup and are hoping to reach a good conclusion. Please, any advice would be appreciated thank you! Early detection and intervention can help minimize complications and improve the overall quality of life for dogs with pigeon chest. Spine Curvature and Scoliosis Spine curvature in French Bulldogs with pigeon chest may be caused by thoracic congenital vertebral body malformations, such as hemivertebra with kyphosis and scoliosis. Hemivertebrae form when the right and left halves of the developing vertebral body do not fuse, resulting in a body resembling a butterfly. Additionally, dwarfism may cause the vertebrae to become abnormally shaped, leading to hemivertebrae. Scoliosis, a symptom associated with spine curvature in French Bulldogs with pigeon chest, can further exacerbate the condition and lead to discomfort and pain. Seeking professional advice from a veterinarian is crucial for managing spine curvature and scoliosis in affected dogs. Causes of Chest Bone Deformities in Dogs As mentioned earlier, the primary cause of chest bone deformities in dogs is abnormal bone growth during development, which is believed to be due to genetic factors that are hereditary in certain breeds. The two main types of chest bone deformities in dogs are pectus carinatum pigeon chest and pectus excavatum sunken chest. Both conditions are present at birth, but the severity of the deformity may not be evident until the puppy starts exhibiting symptoms such as difficulty breathing and failure to thrive. The prognosis for chest bone deformities in dogs varies depending on the severity of the condition. Pectus excavatum generally has a favorable prognosis in young animals, with even severe cases responding well to surgical correction. Similarly, dogs with pectus carinatum often display mild or no symptoms, leading to an encouraging prognosis. Radiographs X-rays may be utilized to evaluate the severity of the deformity and to rule out other potential sources of chest deformity. An echocardiogram , which assesses the heart and lungs for any abnormalities related to the pigeon chest deformity, may also be performed. Early diagnosis is crucial for determining the appropriate course of treatment and managing the condition effectively. If you suspect your French Bulldog may have a pigeon chest, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian as soon as possible to ensure the best care for your beloved pet. Treatment Options for Pigeon Chest in French Bulldogs The treatment options for pigeon chest in French Bulldogs depend on the severity of the deformity and the presence of any associated symptoms. In some cases, physical therapy and manual compression may be sufficient to manage the condition. However, in more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the deformity and alleviate symptoms such as difficulty breathing. It is important to discuss the available treatment options with a veterinarian, who will take into account various factors, including the severity of the abnormality and the manifestation of symptoms, before recommending the most suitable course of action. Physical Therapy Physical therapy is a recommended treatment option for French Bulldogs with pigeon chest, which may be employed in combination with other treatments or as a single modality. Physical therapy can also help strengthen the muscles and ligaments surrounding the chest, potentially reducing the severity of the abnormality. However, physical therapy can be an uncomfortable experience for the dog and may lead to further pain and discomfort if not executed properly. It is imperative to ensure that the physical therapist is adequately experienced and knowledgeable in treating dogs with pigeon chest and that the exercises are conducted correctly. External Splints and Compression External splinting and compression are conservative treatment options for pigeon chest in French Bulldogs, particularly in younger dogs with more flexible thoraxes. Corrective splinting may also be utilized if the malformation is not severe enough to warrant surgery. These treatments involve the use of braces or casts to help rectify the deformity. Surgical Intervention In severe cases of pigeon chest deformity in French Bulldogs, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the affected bone and alleviate symptoms. The surgical procedure involves removing the pertinent bone and substituting it with a fiberglass cast. This treatment option is typically reserved for dogs experiencing significant respiratory distress or other complications as a result of the deformity. As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, such as infection, pain, and scarring. However, the potential benefits include improved breathing and a more normal appearance. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of surgery with a veterinarian to determine if this is the best course of action for your French Bulldog. Preventing Pigeon Chest in French Bulldogs Preventing pigeon chest in French Bulldogs can be challenging, as the condition is primarily a result of genetic factors. However, there are certain steps that can be taken to minimize the risk of developing the condition, such as avoiding inbreeding and consulting a veterinarian if the deformity is present at birth. If you are considering getting a French Bulldog puppy, it is important to choose a reputable breeder who health tests their breeding dogs and refrains from breeding dogs with known chest deformities. This can help reduce the likelihood of acquiring a puppy with pigeon chest and ensure the overall health of future generations of French Bulldogs. Living with a Pigeon Chest French Bulldog Living with a pigeon chest French Bulldog can be a rewarding experience, as these dogs are known for their affectionate nature and charming personalities. However, it is essential to consistently monitor the health of your dog and provide the necessary care and support to ensure their well-being. It is also important to notify the breeder if you discover that your French Bulldog has a pigeon chest, as this information can help them make informed decisions about their breeding program. Summary In conclusion, pigeon chest is a chest bone deformity that affects French Bulldogs and other brachycephalic dog breeds. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for this condition is essential for providing the best care for your beloved pet. As a responsible French Bulldog owner, educating yourself about the pigeon chest and working closely with your veterinarian will enable you to provide the best possible care for your pet. Together, you and your pigeon chest French Bulldog can overcome the challenges of this condition and enjoy a loving, fulfilling life together. References Komsta, R. Prevalence of pectus excavatum PE , pectus carinatum PC , tracheal hypoplasia, thoracic spine deformities and lateral heart displacement in thoracic radiographs of screw-tailed brachycephalic dogs. Disclosure HappyFrenchBulldog. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary advice. Always seek advice from a certified veterinarian in a case of emergency. Contact Have questions about our content? Contact us at info [at] happyfrenchbulldog. Footer Nav. Bad limb angulations with ambulation difficulties Absence of testicles in the scrotum You should know that these are exceedingly rare, especially if you got your dog from a reputable breeder. What should you do? What do you do with a dog chest bone sticking out? If you discover that your Frenchie has an abnormal-looking chest, you should take the following actions: Wait and observe The fact is that pigeon chest is an extremely rare condition in French bulldogs, and even if it were present, they are able to live normal lives. If they do not seem to have any problems aside from the common ones , there is really nothing much you need to do about it except shower it with love and be the best dog parent you can be. Reduce exercise intensity On a similar note, you do not want to overload your Frenchie with too much exercise if you do notice that it has a pigeon chest. Since the structure of the chest bone is compromised, it might not do well when it comes to physical activities. Instead of going for minute walks, start with minute walks and slowly increase the amount of time. Keep a close eye on your dog and stop immediately if you notice breathlessness or signs that it is struggling. If your dog has a pigeon chest, you should inform your breeder so that it can stop breeding the ones affected. You should also expect an explanation from them about why this has happened, why they failed to inform you, and discuss a resolution. Most breeders have it in their contract that they will take responsibility if an incident like this comes up, so be sure to talk this through with them. Bring it to your vet for diagnosis The only way to be sure is to visit your vet. They have the right equipment and imaging machines to determine if indeed your puppy is suffering from pigeon chest or similar deformities. They are also able to advise you on the next best course of action. Only if you notice any issues that might cause major problems should you need to visit the vet. Know someone who might benefit from this information? Please share this article with them. And do consider joining our community of responsible pet parents too! Share this post! Right now, I am still heavily involved in dog parenting duties, and it is my desire to share all our knowledge with fellow dog owners out there! Popular Posts. It is most commonly seen in French bulldogs, although it can also occur in other breeds. Some studies have suggested that the condition may be hereditary, as it tends to occur more frequently in certain bloodlines of French bulldogs. The chest may appear sunken in, or it may have a bulging appearance. This can lead to difficulty breathing and an increased risk of respiratory problems. Another common symptom of pigeon chest in French bulldogs is a high-pitched, wheezing sound when the dog breathes. This can be a sign of breathing difficulties and should be taken seriously. Other symptoms may include coughing, exercise intolerance, and a blueish tint to the skin or mucous membranes, which can indicate inadequate oxygenation. In severe cases of pigeon chest, French bulldogs may also experience decreased appetite and weight loss. They may also have a swollen abdomen, a sign of internal organ damage. Pigeon chest can lead to serious health problems and even death if left untreated. If you suspect your French bulldog has a pigeon chest, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian as soon as possible. Your veterinarian can diagnose the condition through a physical examination and may also order x-rays or other diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment typically involves surgery to correct the deformity of the rib cage, but this can be a complex and risky procedure. Pigeon chest is a common condition in French bulldogs that affects the development of the rib cage. The main symptoms include a distorted rib cage, breathing difficulties, and a high-pitched wheezing sound when breathing. Other symptoms may include coughing, exercise intolerance, decreased appetite, and weight loss. X-rays are typically the most useful diagnostic tool for pigeon chest in French bulldogs. They can show the shape and size of the rib cage and any abnormalities or deformities. In some cases, your veterinarian may want to do a CT scan or MRI to get a more detailed view of the chest and rib cage. Once the diagnosis of the pigeon chest has been confirmed, treatment typically involves surgery to correct the deformity of the rib cage. This can be a complex and risky procedure, and working with a veterinarian with experience treating this condition is important. The surgery may involve removing part of the rib cage and reshaping it or implanting a metal rod or other device to support the rib cage. This may include providing your dog pain medication, limiting their activity, and providing them with additional oxygen if necessary. Sometimes, your dog may need to stay in the hospital for a few days after the surgery to recover. In conclusion, pigeon chest is a common condition in French bulldogs that affects the development of the rib cage. If you suspect your dog has a pigeon chest, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian as soon as possible. Diagnosis typically involves x-rays or other imaging tests, and treatment typically involves surgery to correct the deformity of the rib cage. Working with a veterinarian with experience in treating this condition is vital. Preventing Pigeon Chest In French Bulldogs One of the best ways to prevent pigeon chest in French bulldogs is to feed them a balanced and nutritious diet. High-quality dog food that is specifically designed for their breed can help to ensure that they are getting all of the nutrients that they need. Another way to prevent pigeon chest is to provide your French bulldog with regular exercise. French bulldogs are not known for being particularly active, but they still need some form of daily physical activity to stay healthy. This can include walking, playing in the backyard, or engaging in low-impact exercise. Overweight dogs are more likely to develop pigeon chests, so they must keep an eye on their weight and adjust their diet and exercise routine as needed. In some cases, the condition may be corrected with medications or surgeries. However, the earlier it is caught, the better the chances of successful treatment. Conclusion To prevent pigeon chests in French bulldogs, owners need to feed their dogs a balanced diet and avoid overbreeding. Addressing and preventing pigeon chest is crucial for the health and well-being of this popular breed. Post navigation. Pigeon chest, or pectus carinatum, is a deformity of the chest wall in dogs. It is characterized by a protrusion of the sternum and ribs. Pigeon chest can be caused by genetic factors or nutritional deficiencies during development. Treatment options include surgery, bracing, and physical therapy. Consultation with a veterinarian is recommended to determine the best course of action for your dog. Preventing pigeon chest in puppies involves providing a balanced diet and avoiding overfeeding or rapid growth. Understanding Pigeon Chest in Dogs Pigeon chest is characterized by a chest bone and rib disfigurement that causes the chest to bow outwards into a point instead of a curve. This can be caused by a malformation of the ribs and sternum, which results in the chest appearing sunken in or having a narrow chest. The condition can also occur due to a separation of the sternum and cartilage, thorax narrowing, and unusually shaped ribs causing a flat or sunken chest, which is known as pectus excavatum. The chest bone of a dog is made up of several components, including the manubrium, xiphoid process, keel, and posternum. The sternum, or breastbone, is the bone that runs down the center of the chest and is connected to the ribs. The thorax is the area of the body that contains the chest, ribs, and thoracic vertebrae. The forechest is the area of the chest that protrudes in front of the shoulders, and the floating ribs are the last two pairs of ribs that are not connected to the sternum. Pigeon chest in dogs can cause serious health problems, as the lungs and heart can be compressed by either of these disfigurements. In severe cases, surgery may be required to correct the condition. However, in many cases, it may not cause any health problems, but it can be unsightly and may make your dog uncomfortable. Breeds Prone to Pigeon Chest Pigeon chest is a condition that can occur in various breeds of dogs, but some are more prone to it than others. Here are some of the breeds that are known to be more susceptible to developing pigeon chest: Brachycephalic Breeds Breeds with short, flat faces, such as French Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Boston Terriers, are more prone to developing pigeon chest. This is because their shortened skulls often lead to a compressed ribcage, which can cause deformities in the chest. English Bulldogs English Bulldogs are also prone to developing pigeon chest due to their short, stocky build. This breed is also known to have a high incidence of other health issues, such as breathing problems, which can exacerbate the effects of pigeon chest. Pekingese Pekingese are another breed that is prone to developing pigeon chest. This breed has a relatively broad, flat chest, which can make it more susceptible to deformities. Beagles Beagles are more often afflicted with pectus carinatum than other breeds. This deformity can result from inbreeding, which is more common in this breed. Great Dane Great Danes are also prone to developing pigeon chest, but this is more often due to a genetic predisposition rather than inbreeding. Overall, pigeon chest is a condition that can affect any breed of dog, but some are more prone to it than others. Identifying Pigeon Chest in Dogs Symptoms of pigeon chest in dogs can vary depending on the severity of the deformity. In mild cases, the chest may appear slightly protruded, while in severe cases, the bone may be jutting out, resulting in a flat or sunken chest. In some cases, the curvature of the spine, also known as scoliosis, may also be present. If you suspect that your dog may have pigeon chest, it is important to consult with a professional veterinarian. A physical examination, x-rays, and an echocardiogram may be necessary to properly diagnose the condition. Treatment for pigeon chest in dogs may vary depending on the severity of the deformity. In mild cases, an external splint or brace may be used to help correct the chest wall deformity. In more severe cases, chest-wall bracing may be necessary to help reshape the chest wall and improve breathing. It is important to note that pigeon chest in dogs is a rare condition, and not all dogs with a protruding chest have this deformity. If you suspect that your dog may have pigeon chest, it is best to consult with a professional veterinarian to properly diagnose and treat the condition. Health Implications of Pigeon Chest in Dogs Pigeon chest in dogs is a condition that can lead to several health implications. Due to the lack of room for the heart and lungs, a pigeon-chested dog may experience breathing difficulties, exercise intolerance, and reduced endurance. In some cases, a pigeon-chested dog may develop a heart murmur, which can lead to heart problems. The lack of oxygen due to insufficient room for the lungs can cause a blue tint to the skin and mucus membranes cyanosis. Additionally, a pigeon-chested dog may experience difficulty walking, which can be caused by disfigured limbs or an umbilical hernia. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian. Treatment options may include surgery, medication, or a change in diet and exercise routine. It is crucial to address the health implications of pigeon chest in dogs to ensure that your furry friend can live a happy and healthy life. Treatment and Management of Pigeon Chest in Dogs If your dog has been diagnosed with pigeon chest, it is important to understand that treatment options will vary depending on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, treatment may not be necessary, and the dog can live a normal life. One treatment option for pigeon chest is external splinting. This can be an effective treatment option for mild to moderate cases of pigeon chest. For more severe cases of pigeon chest, surgery may be necessary. Surgery can involve the use of a fiberglass cast to replace the affected bone, or it may involve the use of physical therapy to help the dog regain strength and mobility in their chest area. It is important to note that surgery can be a risky and expensive treatment option, and it should only be considered after consulting with a veterinarian. The veterinarian will be able to assess the severity of the condition and provide guidance on the best treatment options for your dog. In addition to treatment options, it is important to ensure that your dog is comfortable and pain-free. Overall, the prognosis for dogs with pigeon chest will depend on the severity of the condition and the effectiveness of treatment. With proper care and management, many dogs with pigeon chest can live happy and healthy lives. By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your furry friend remains healthy and free from aesthetic and health issues associated with pigeon chest. Frequently Asked Questions What causes chest bone deformity in dogs? The exact cause of this condition is not known, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Which dog breeds are prone to chest bone deformity? Although any dog breed can develop pigeon chest, some breeds are more prone to this condition than others. Is pigeon chest in dogs a hereditary condition? Yes, pigeon chest in dogs is believed to be a hereditary condition. It is passed down from one generation to another through genes, and dogs that have a family history of this condition are more likely to develop it. What are the potential health risks associated with pigeon chest in dogs? Pigeon chest in dogs can cause a variety of health problems, including difficulty breathing, heart and lung problems, digestive issues, and joint pain. Dogs with severe cases of pigeon chest may also experience difficulty walking and running. Can pigeon chest in dogs be corrected through surgery? In some cases, surgery may be recommended to correct severe cases of pigeon chest in dogs. However, this is usually only done as a last resort, as surgery can be risky and expensive. It is important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best course of action for your dog. How can pigeon chest in dogs be managed or treated? While there is no cure for pigeon chest in dogs, there are several ways to manage and treat this condition. This may include weight management, exercise modification, medication for pain and inflammation, and the use of supportive devices such as braces or harnesses. Share this:.

Nothing will make your poodle happier than to play you in a friendly and stimulating game of tug-of-war. The SnakeBiter is an excellent variation on rope toys for dogs that are aggressive chewers , which most poodles are. This rope is thick and solid, allowing your dog to go to town without destroying a favorite toy. Instead, our Invincible Snakes come with multiple squeakers for multiple rounds of toss and tug fun even when.Do not leave toys with unsupervised pets. Remove and replace toy if damaged. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. The Outward Hound brand is especially good for poodles because of the durability of their squeaky toys. Although this plush squeaky toy is small and light, the construction is extremely tough and will withstand extensive chewing and tearing. Apparently, in some cases, the squeaking device will remain functional even when the fabric has been punctured. Ultra Ball ChuckIt! Ultra Ball, Medium 2. Check out a variety of our pet toy products such as frisbees, perches and mirrors for birds, prey wand toys for cats, plush toys, Checkout Chuckit for ball launchers, bouncy balls, frisbees, indoor dog.Ultra Ball is one of our favorite designs on the market for ball toys for poodles. In addition, these balls come in bright and contrasting colors that will be easy for your poodle to see. Does your dog get bored quickly? Included with our dog puzzle toys are helpful tips and tricks to assist in optimal training; also, never leave toys with unsupervised pets - no toy is indestructible We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. In this interactive game, treats are hidden in various compartments as a challenge for your dog. Different shapes like cones and circles cover the chambers, and dogs must lift the covers off instead of pushing them aside to access the treats. The rubber grip keeps the activity tray in place, and the toy is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. Flying Squirrel ChuckIt! PET TOYS: Get ready for bonding fun with your dogs cats Check out a variety of our pet toy products such as frisbees, perches mirrors for birds, prey wand toys for cats, plush toys, light-up.For additional usability, this toy can float—be sure to bring this with you if you ever bring your poodle out to a pool or lake. For extensive games of fetch, this tough and aerodynamic toy will keep your energetic dog happy. Goughnuts tough dog toys are long lasting and will keep your dog busy.Our super durable dog toys are nearly indestructible, but if your dog manages to damage them, Poodles can be downright obsessive with their chewing, and this ring-shaped chew toy can be a great solution for protecting your shoes and furniture. The thick rubber will last for a long time, and a convenient red safety indicator inside the toy will alert you when it has become too worn down to be safe for your dog. Both Cockapoos and Poodle are active dogs that enjoy outdoor play What to Look for in Poodle Toys While these are our top picks for great toys for poodles, there are plenty of dog toys out there that work well for poodles. Key elements to look for include durability, interactivity, and opportunities for social play. No matter what toys you buy, poodles are fun-loving and curious animals who, above all, just want to spend time with you. Happy playing! My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. This personalized art print is a unique and thoughtful gift for any Toy Poodle lover. The print highlights the breed history, traits, and characteristics that make the Toy Poodle stand out. The print is perfect for dog lovers of all ages and genders. It makes a sentimental and heartwarming gift for a fur birthday or to welcome a new puppy. Plus, the stylish print is made to work well with all existing home decor, making it a great housewarming gift to match any home. Buying Guide When it comes to finding the best toys for poodles, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you are choosing the right product for your furry friend. Here are some key features to consider when your are buying best toys for poodles Size One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a toy for your poodle is the size. You want to make sure that the toy is appropriately sized for your dog. If the toy is too small, it could pose a choking hazard, while a toy that is too large may be difficult for your poodle to play with. Look for toys that are specifically designed for small or medium-sized dogs. Material The material of the toy is also an important consideration. Look for toys made from high-quality materials, such as rubber or nylon. Avoid toys that are made from cheap, flimsy materials that can easily break or tear. Functionality Consider what your poodle likes to do when choosing a toy. Some poodles love to play fetch, while others prefer toys that they can chew on. Look for toys that are designed for the specific activities that your poodle enjoys. Interactive Features Toys with interactive features can provide great mental stimulation for your poodle. Look for toys that have hidden treats, puzzles, or other interactive elements that will keep your poodle entertained and engaged. Safety Finally, safety should always be a top priority when choosing a toy for your poodle. Avoid toys with small parts that could be swallowed or toys with sharp edges that could cause injury. Always supervise your poodle when playing with toys to ensure that they are playing safely. By considering these factors, you can choose the best toys for your poodle that will provide hours of fun and entertainment while keeping them safe and healthy. I have a miniature Poodle named Olive. Pets are my passion and I love to share knowledge through writing blogs. About Us I'm Emma Olson, and love dogs so much, especially poodles. Pets are my passion and I work in the world of corporate pets. I worked at three different pet stores for about six years total and now volunteer at my local animal rescue. I love animals very much! While waiting for their forever homes, I like to volunteer to provide them with care in my spare time. The 6 Best Types of Toys for a Poodle Overview If you think of dog toys as needing to serve as tools to meet a Poodle's needs, you may be surprised at how amazingly helpful they can be. The right toys can help a great deal with everything from teething woes, to negative behavior associated with boredom.In addition, toys can serve as a method of creating a closer bond with your Poodle, encourage activity in an otherwise sedentary dog, and even boost a Poodle's brain power. Here we will take a look at the 6 types of toys every Poodle should have to meet a wide variety of canine needs. Teething begins by 3 to 4 months old and lasts until the 7 to 8 month mark. During this time, there are incredible amounts of itching and most puppies feel some level of discomfort. This causes an overwhelming need to chew to soothe those teething woes. For these reasons, one of the best things that you can do is find the right toys for your teething Poodle puppy. Qualities of effective teething toys: The oral sensations that a puppy feels can move from moment to moment. Discomfort waxes and wanes. And itching can come in waves. So, toys need to be very versatile. The best toys will have: A variety of surface textures. Cloth, rope, and hard rubber should be available to meet chewing urges at any one particular time. Rope toys are especially helpful, as the twisted strands are good 'scratchers'. Small nubs. This is of particular importance; tiny nubs work to massage gums which helps the pup feel better. A puppy needs to be able to manipulate the toy into different parts of his mouth. Proper sizing. This is most relevant to toy Poodles, since many dog teething toys are sized too big for a tiny toy's mouth. If a Poodle puppy cannot instantly find relief, he may move onto something else.Recommended teething toys: Below are our 1 most recommended toys for Poodle pups that are in the throes of teething. The first 3 are for toy Poodles, though larger options can be found for miniatures and standards. The Nylabone is just one example of great teething chews that are flavored to entice a puppy to mouth them and come in a wide range of sizes, to accommodate all Poodle varieties. If you do not see the images, try a refresh. On mobile, you may need to turn the screen horizontal to see all 4. And if this describes your Poodle, no doubt you have had a hard time finding the right toys that will stand up to aggressive chewing. A dog's urge to chew is not limited to toys; with this type of drive, nothing is off limits. If a Poodle is not happy with his toys, one of two things will happen: 1 the dog will move on to other objects in the house, which is not only destructive but also unsafe or 2 the dog will become irritable and stressed as he's unable to satisfy his urges. Qualities of the best toys for strong chewers: To meet your Poodle's needs, the goal will be to provide fun chew toys that are specifically designed to handle aggressive chewers. While no toy is literally indestructible, some come very close. The toy will need to: Be able to stand up to high bite force. Be safe - A great feature to look for is a color indicator that the toy has been chewed down too far. Some toys are guaranteed, meaning that if a color starts to show, you'll get a free replacement. Fun - If it does not have the right texture and pliability to feel good in a Poodle's mouth, it'll be of no use. Recommended toys for Poodles that are super aggressive chewers: For this, both Kongs and Doughnuts are the two best options, with Kongs being the best for toy Poodles images are below. Kongs are great because they come in a wide range of sizes that will be appropriate for toys, minis, and standards. These are color coded, with pink and blue for puppies, red for 'normal' adult chewers, and black is reserved for the strongest chewers. In other words, a puppy would never be able to bite down on a black Kong dog toy and an aggressive chewer could tear up a pink one. The 'classic' Kong is designed to be filled with treats or kibble, which draws a dog to it and encourages him to stay focused. If your Poodle likes to chew, but has not shown a history of shredding toys to bits, you may find that the Kong 'minimally stuffed' chew toys are well received. These are also great because they come in all sizes from small to large. Goughnuts are colored coded as well, with yellow, orange, and green for strong chewers PSI and black reserved for professional grinders at a whopping PSI. What is great about these is that they are guaranteed. Each has red in the middle. If you see even a tiny spot of red, you may return the toy for just the cost of shipping out a new one. There are 3 sizes as well; but these will be a bit too large for most toy Poodles. Toys are shown below. And in this sense, thinking of toys as 'stay busy' tools can make a huge difference in your Poodle's happiness level. When a puppy or dog is just sitting around without anything to do, he will reach a limit where boredom turns into frustration. And where monotony turns into depression. If your Poodle has been too bored, you may not even realize it until you hand over a super-fun, interactive toy and see him perk up. Alternatively, some Poodles are very expressive about how they feel. It must be noted that regular exercise plays a role in this as well. If your Poodle is not taken out twice per day for at least minute sessions, even the best of toys may not fix his woes. So, a good balance of getting outside for walks and offering the right toys during down-time is the best fix. Qualities of the best toys to fix boredom and keep a Poodle occupied: You'll want toys that will be perfect for both when a Poodle is home alone and also when you are home but cannot interact with your Poodle at the moment. These toys should: Allow a Poodle to play fully independently; you will not need to do anything else other than point out the toy if you are there. Call out to the puppy or dog. A huge aspect is that the toy interacts with the dog. In this way, playing is a two-way street. The dog noses the toy, the toy responds. The dog chews the toy, the toy reacts. This type of element can keep a dog busy for a long time, basically until he's completely tuckered out. Recommended 'stay busy' toys for Poodles: There ares some incredibly fun options. The Babble Balls toys are out of this world; these are super interactive toys that can keep a puppy or dog amused and busy for hours. There are 3 sizes small for toys, medium for minis, and large for standard Poodles. Also, there are two fun types. One lets out animal noises. So, as a Poodle touches the toy, engaging sounds like pigs, frogs, bears, birds, even other dogs speak to him. There are 20 different animal sounds in all. The other is just as wonderful. It lets out funny phrases such as 'Come here, puppy! There are 20 amusing, encouraging phrases in all. For both of these, the toys automatically shut off when not in use, so the batteries do not run out. The Look Who's Taking line of toys is super fun as well. There are over 15 different types of stuffed animals, and each one makes a corresponding animal noise. These are good sized quality toys that stand up to daily playing. The size of these toys range from 5" the baby chick to 7" the cow and a bunch in between. There is a parrot, frog, rooster, monkey, goat, lobster, and more. These toys are shown below. These serve two purposes in one swoop. As an added benefit, if you place your Poodle's food in this sort of toy on days that you are not home, it helps prevent bloat, a dangerous health condition fast eating is a common trigger , which is a top concern for standard Poodles and is always something to be aware of no matter what type or size dog you have. Qualities of great treat-release toys: There are a few aspects to keep in mind. For this type of toy to do its job, it should: Hold in treats enough that they are not released too easily, but at the same time allow a Poodle to smell them in order to trigger a response. Be designed to work with a variety of different dog treats so that you are not forced to purchase additional treats. Be made with safe materials. Be durable to stand up to daily use. Be easy to clean since you'll want to be able to rinse away food particles. Be sized correctly. It's not uncommon for owners of toy Poodles to have trouble finding treat dispensing toys for their tiny dogs, so for these Poodles, it must fit the needs of dogs 10 lbs. Recommended treat dispensing toys for toy, mini and standard Poodles: There are some great options for all Poodles images below. Busy Buddy makes two treat release toys. The barnacle toy is perfect for toy Poodles, even puppies. It is composed of 3 tiny separate spheres, so toy Poodle can easily mouth onto one of them at a time. If you like the looks of this one, but don't have a toy Poodle, no worries.The other type is the twist sphere, which is adjustable, so you can control how easy or hard it is for your Poodle to get to the treats. This comes in small for dogs 8 to 20 lbs. The IQ Treat Ball is a great toy for toy Poodles on the larger end, minis and standards; this is available in both 3 and 4 inch diameters. It's a neat little sphere that is adjustable and releases food as it's nudged which encourages a dog to move. The Bob-A-Lot is a good-sized toy that is best suited for mini and standard Poodles. This has a large chamber that holds a full meal, and its bright color and wobbly movements make eating fun. Distress and even panicking when owners are away is referred to as separation anxiety, and this is not uncommon with dogs. In fact, it may be even more so with breeds like the Poodle due to their instinctive sensitivity and close human bonding. So, while all toys are important in their own way, perhaps the one type that can make the most dramatic impact on a Poodle is a companion toy. These will mimic a living creature to become an instant friend. With this, a dog is no longer alone. In addition, it would be remiss to not mention webcam devices that allow you to interact with your Poodle when you're not there. These are quite amazing, though are not fitting for those on a tight budget. Qualities of best companion toys: There's no competition here and there's no comparing. The very best ones are Smart Pets; these are good-sized quality stuffed animals that emit a rhythmic, soothing heartbeat. This alone instantly swoops away heavy feelings of isolation. In addition, is an option to send out a comforting warmth. This is as close as you can get to giving your Poodle a companion without obtaining another dog, and these are just marvelous. Qualities of the best pet webcams: Not very long ago, there were some sparse choices for this; however, the features where quite limited. Now, there's some truly amazing devices. While these can be a bit pricey, if you really want to go all out and come the absolute closest you can to being with your Poodle when you're not with him, the webcam will: Have two-way audio so that you can both speak to your Poodle and hear any barking in response. Have a wide-angle view and night vision, so that you can clearly see your puppy or dog at all times and under any sort of lighting though it is always recommended to keep lights on for a dog that's home alone. Easily sync to your smartphone Hold a good number of treats, so that the interaction can be frequent and extended. Toss treats out with a tap on your phone, and at a good distance to make it clear that you're playing with your Poodle. Our 1 recommend companion toys and a super-neat interactive webcam are below. If you don't see the images, try a refresh. On mobile, you may need to turn your screen horizontal to see all 4. It's what they live for. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for your Poodle is to make time each day to play. It can be as little as 15 minutes, and it will mean the world. And do not discount older adults and even seniors. The need to hold onto bonds is stronger than ever. However, it's not uncommon for a Poodle to need something colorful and interesting to get really involved with a game of fetch. You'll want it to be durable and importantly the right size so that your Poodle can easily mouth it. Another option that is great to play on rainy days are puzzle games. With this, you work together as a teacher and student. You'll teach your Poodle how to nose levers and paw buttons to find hidden treats. There is something to be said about the Poodle ranking 2 in intelligence ; this is indeed a super smart breed. However, dogs are as smart as opportunity allows.For these, you'll want to pay attention to the level typically 1,2 and 3 or beginner, intermediate, and advanced so that the puzzle is doable. Recommended super-fun fetch toys and a fun puzzle game are below this one is level 2, but there are lots of options. All rights reserved. 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. Share Us. Pros Puppyspot Poodle Adoption 5. They have placed over , puppies into homes in the US! The ridges and nubs on the toy help clean teeth and prevent plaque and tartar buildup, promoting dental health from an early age. The toy is gentle enough to ease pain during the teething stage, and the savory chicken flavor encourages puppies to chew on the toy instead of destructive items around the house. However, the toy is not suitable for dogs over 15 pounds, and some reviewers reported small pieces coming off the toy. Overall, this is a great option for small puppies who need a gentle chew toy to help with teething. Size for puppies and small dogs,a dog that weighs less than 22 lbs,such as.Some toys have the bells,please pay more attention when they are playing toys and do not let your dog swallow these toys,just be sure to throw away.We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Overall, this set of toys is a great investment for any poodle puppy owner. The toys are made of high-quality TPR and soft cotton, making them sturdy and bite-resistant. They are also easy to clean, making them a convenient option for busy pet owners. The toys come in a variety of shapes and sizes, providing your puppy with a range of textures to chew on. One thing to keep in mind is that the colors of the toys may vary and are randomly delivered. Some of the toys also have bells, so be sure to supervise your puppy to prevent them from swallowing the toys. Additionally, the set is not recommended for dogs with sharp teeth or for dogs that like to fight over toys. It's great for Chihuahua.Unique Design Shape Toy for Boredom - Unique fruit shape with hollow seductive pineapple flavor and real texture surface, can attract the dog to chew and play. You can fill the teething toy with food.Improve Intelligence Training - This pineapple interactive dog toy can training dogs jumping, reaction ability. You can also use this pet toy to interact with dogs and play throw and fetch game, enjoy.To Esteemed Customers - Recently our pineapple dog toy by the malicious reviwe of others, these people deliberately bought our dog toy and destoryed it,then leave us one-star with images, please do.This toy is made from extremely durable bite-resistant natural rubber and is designed to withstand even the most aggressive chewers, making it great for Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Corgis, and Poodles. Pros The unique fruit shape with a hollow seductive pineapple flavor and real texture surface can attract the dog to chew and play, making it a great small dog toy for boredom. The toothbrush-like design is helpful in freshening breath, stimulating gums, and reducing tartar and plaque buildup as your dog plays and chews away. The toy may be difficult to clean because of its unique shape and texture. The manufacturer provides a lifetime replacement guarantee or refund for their dear customers. Recently, the pineapple dog toy received some malicious reviews from others who deliberately bought the dog toy and destroyed it, then left one-star with images. However, the manufacturer has provided their own video, showing their own dog playing very happily. If you have any issues with the pineapple tough dog toy, please contact the manufacturer in time. Side note: I do not recommend getting rope toys to play tug-o-war with your dog. In my opinion, they are quite dangerous for two reasons. First, they tend to fray easily, leaving behind strands of string that might cause digestive obstruction in your dog if swallowed. Bottom line? Ready now? Endorsed by veterinarians globally, serving as a secure plaything for active dogs. Its ability to keep their dog busy and anxiety-free, without any choking hazards, makes it a must-have. Another reviewer, owning a mini Aussie doodle, praised its endless chewing appeal. Although there are a few concerns about its long-term durability, most owners agree on its value for money. Includes various obstacles and steps to keep dogs mentally stimulated. Promotes positive play habits, reduces anxiety, and redirects destructive behavior. This interactive dog toy made by Outward Hound has garnered over , positive reviews among dog owners, myself included. It makes for a super enjoyable and stimulating play time for intelligent and playful dogs! Small breed owners appreciate its suitability for their pups, and its versatile design with rounded plastic corners ensures safety during play. Many users also appreciate the option to freeze treats inside the toy and its easy-to-open lids. However, it may not be the best choice for heavy chewers. Overall, this toy presents a fun and mentally engaging option for dogs, especially those of smaller breeds. Classic Dog Ball Launcher Upgrade the game of fetch with an interactive dog toy that enhances throwing speed and distance effortlessly. Designed to extend reach and keep hands slobber-free while reducing bending over to pick up muddy balls. Compatible with 2. This toy by ChuckIt has received lots of positive reviews from users on the internet. One user, initially skeptical, discovered the value of the product for their ball-obsessed lab. They invested in multiple ChuckIts and found it helped maintain their arm strength during playtime. While some experienced minor issues with slobbery balls sticking inside the cup, it was easily avoidable by removing and replacing the ball. The Chuckit itself remained durable, and users found cost-effective alternatives by using standard tennis balls. Play fetch and interact with your canine companion during pet exercise with this lightweight dog play toy that features a unique S-shape design. This recyclable puppy chew toy also includes a manufacturer Love It Guarantee against damage. Easily clean this dog tug toy for chase and fetch games by adding it to the top rack of your dishwasher. The Zogoflex from West Paws has garnered positive reviews from more than 5, satisfied dog owners on the internet and I personally own one too. For high-energy pups keen on chewing, fetching, and tug-o-war, this toy comes highly recommended. Even for tough chewers like Labradors, the toy impressively withstands their play, making it a worthwhile investment. Though not the cheapest option but still very reasonable! Each unstuffed toy has 3 independent squeaker zones for enhanced entertainment for small and medium dogs. Soft and durable puppy toys, machine washable for easy cleaning, ensuring longevity and fluffiness. In this pack, you will find a set of three squeaky animals. For less squeak-focused dogs, it provides enjoyment, and the lack of internal fluff prevents mess. However, some users found the squeakers not durable enough, losing their sound after moderate usage. Aggressive chewers, quickly destroyed the toy, ripping open the head and potentially posing a risk if the squeaker is swallowed. While some dogs may enjoy these toys, they are not suitable for aggressive chewers or those who prioritize squeaking ability. Lightweight, durable, weather, and water-resistant for long-lasting performance. Ideal for medium and large breeds, measuring 12 inches long. Ensured safety with rigorous testing for endless family fun. In my experience, this toy has a number of uses, for example as a tug-o-war toy or for a game of fetch. However, I find that it is most useful when used in the pool. Boxer owners found it to be one of the best toys, standing the test of time even during tugging and chewing sessions. However, for other dogs like a large retriever, it remains durable, perfect for fetch and retrieve games with excellent flotation. Overall, this toy showcases durability and versatility, catering to different playstyles and breeds. Made from durable nylon and heavy-duty rubber to withstand strong chewers. Interactive toy to cure boredom, promoting long-lasting play and calming anxiety for dogs over 6 months old. This particular toy features rotating soft brushes and treat rings, and has garnered mixed but generally positive reviews from internet users. While some dogs tend to destroy it quickly, its effectiveness when new keeps users repurchasing it. Take note though, it requires supervision, as dogs may dismantle it, and there are concerns about choking hazards and cracked plastic pieces. For some dogs, the toy provides extended playtime, with treats keeping them occupied for at least half an hour. I think this will be super beneficial for poodle owners whose dogs finish treats too quickly. Perfect for beginners, helping dogs learn tricks, commands, and strengthening the bond. Includes 1 square collapsible tunnel, 4 weave poles, and an adjustable jump, offering multiple ways to play. Convenient and portable with a lightweight set and a storage bag for easy home use. I love this kit! Be aware though, that the kit is made up of a few different parts which you have to purchase separately. The puppy gets particularly obsessed and even whines if she seesit being kept away. The toy has proven to be durable and has a good length, allowing an owner to use it even while standing on the couch. Soft material designed for teething puppies. Textured chew toy with bristles for teeth cleaning and plaque prevention. Features delicious bacon flavor loved by dogs. A few of the stories that really struck me was a week-old puppy that took a liking to these chew toys, keeping him engaged and relieved teething discomfort. The toys prevented destructive behavior and proved effective for the teething phase. One owner liked it so much that he repurchased it multiple times for their now 2-year-old pup, who still loves the toy. While it eventually breaks down with heavy use, the toy has been durable for a few months with occasional chewing. Putting it in the freezer also worked well for some dogs, soothing their gums during teething. One of the top additions if you are a puppy owner, in my opinion. Eases anxiety during transitions and stressful events like fireworks and thunderstorms. Easy to use, made from certified safe and durable fabric, and machine washable heartbeat and heat pad removable. This has got to be one of the most highly-rated cuddling toys for dogs, whether they are adults or puppies. Just go read the reviews online! And I love it for many reasons. For new puppy owners, it proved beneficial in comforting their pups during crate training, helping them sleep through the night. It is also super durable. Why are Play and Toys Important to Poodles? Provide physical exercise Play and toys are important to poodles since they serve as the gateway for these dogs to engage in physical exercise. The time your dog spends playing with its toys keeps them moving which exercises and stretches their muscles. The exercise also helps them maintain a healthy weight, and it could even boost their cardiovascular health! Help stimulate the mind We all know that Poodles are smart dogs, constantly out and about thinking of what better to do during their free time. Letting your poodle play with toys will surely keep their intelligent minds busy. If you can see your poodle behaving bothered and looking bored, try giving him an interactive puzzle toy for dogs. Boost social skills Play and toys let poodles interact with their dog owners. Often, poodles will bring toys to their owners as a way of engaging in play. This simple act also makes poodles friendlier and more playful, which makes them even more adorable! There are teething toys out there that are even recommended by vets, especially if the poodle is still a teething puppy. Playing with chew toys and teething toys will also let your poodle remove plaque and tartar in his mouth on his own. No more constant messy toothbrushing! Hence when they get bored or anxious, they typically resort to destructive behavior. But with toys available for poodles to play with their boredom, anxiety, or stress can easily be handled. Yes, Poodles do need a wide variety of toys. You see, there are some poodles, especially the young ones, who need teething toys to alleviate their teething throes. Factors in Choosing Poodle Toys Size appropriate Poodles come in three sizes; standard, miniature, and toy poodle. Chew resistant Poodles are quite the chewers, I should say. Chew-resistant toys are widely available in pet stores and even in vet clinics. They are safer since no parts will be chewed off and swallowed by your dog. Many reputable manufacturers will indicate the material they use, especially pet-safe ones. Interactive and mental stimulation It pays to consider if a toy can provide mental challenges and games that are interactive yet fun to play. When you do so, you give them the opportunity to stimulate their minds and keep them busy for hours. Products that are proven to be durable can save you more than just a few dollars, but also the potential for loose parts to come off and pose a swallowing threat. No small parts This is really important to me — making sure that the toys for poodles have no small parts. Small parts can be torn off by your poodle, which it might accidentally swallow and choke on. Budget Having a dog can surely add a huge expense to your budget, and buying toys that are way too expensive is unwise especially if your dog will only play with them a few times. That said, I would prioritize safety and quality over anything else, and if money is indeed an issue, I rather wait to get a better one. However, some toys are durable enough to last a long time before getting destroyed. How many toys should I provide for my poodle? As a general guideline, I recommend having a variety of toys to keep your poodle mentally and physically stimulated. Start with toys and observe which types of toys your poodle enjoys the most. Rotate them regularly to keep them interesting and prevent boredom. Are some materials dangerous for my poodle? Yes, there are materials that are dangerous for your poodle, such as PVC and lead, both of which are toxic to dogs when exposed too often. Choose a reputable retailer and exercise extreme caution if you DIY your own dog toy. Why do poodles destroy their toys? Standard poodles typically destroy their toys because of their natural prey drive. But miniature and toy poodles usually destroy their dogs just out of boredom or anxiety. Regular brushing and visits to the vet are still needed. In Conclusion: Best Toys for Poodles I hope that this article has helped you in finding the right poodle dog toy and add a touch of spice to your life! Know someone who might benefit from this information? Please share this article with them. And do consider joining our community of responsible pet parents too! Share this post! Right now, I am still heavily involved in dog parenting duties, and it is my desire to share all our knowledge with fellow dog owners out there! Popular Posts.