golden retriever puppies richmond ky

However, for a better understanding of the history and character traits of the Golden Boxer, a look into its parent breed would be most ideal. The Golden Retriever, which is a much more gentle dog than the boxer has its origin traced down to the 19th Century. It was first bred in Scotland in the midth Century for the purpose of hunting and retrieving during waterfowl hunting. The breeding goal back then was to breed a perfect hunting companion that would be unmatched in the field while still having the calm and gentle nature to be a family and indoor dog. The Golden Retriever became a well-recognized dog breed in Britain by the 20th century and in the year , it became registered and recognized by the American Kennel Club. The high energetic, playful Boxer was first developed in Germany in an earlier period than the Golden Retriever, the 16th Century. It belongs to the Mastiffs Tibetan Line. The boxer is an excellent guard dog and was originally used as a war dog by the United States just the bulldog and German Shepard. This fearless, loyal canine won a total of 17 battles in its time and it quickly became one of the most decorated dogs of the early s. The Boxer got its name from its fighting style, when it attacks, it uses its paws in a way that resembles the fighting style of a boxer. The Boxer breed became widely recognized in the year when it became a recognized breed by the American Kennel Club. When it comes to friendliness, the Golden Boxer is a bit, unlike its Golden Retriever parent. It might bark at new faces to alert its owners of their presence. This particular character trait makes the Golden Boxer a great watchdog. When left alone, the Golden Boxer is a rather quiet dog and could spend a huge part of its day in silence. With proper socialization, the Golden Boxer could make a perfect companion for kids as well as other house pets. Its large size could make the designer breed quite harmful to babies and toddlers, so, do be careful and ensure that they avoid roughhousing and basically any form of teasing. As we have already established, Early socialization is key for the Golden Boxer. A well-socialized Golden Boxer would have no problem living with a fun-loving family with kids and other pets. This could lead to a few destructive habits building up like chewing on furniture or other things in the house and barking continuously. Golden Retriever Boxer Mix As we have already established, the Golden Boxer cross breed is a cross between A Golden Retriever and a Boxer, and hence, it could be like either parent, what matters is the level of appearance dominance of each parent on the hybrid. If your Golden Boxer looks more like its Golden Retriever parent, it would have a round-shaped head with an elongated muzzle. However, if the Golden Boxer looks more like its Boxer parent, do expect a square-headed shape and a short muzzle. When it comes to its ear features, the Golden Boxer looks more like its Golden Retriever parent having doggy ears that lay down. The ears also look perky and this gives the Golden Boxer its inquisitive look. The eyes of the Golden Boxer are oval in shape, hazel or brown in color and its feet are medium-sized, round, and compact. Food Requirements of the Golden Boxer Both parent breeds of the Golden Boxer are very energetic and active breeds and for that reason require a lot of rich, highly nutritious food. For the Golden Boxer child, there really is no exception. The Golden Boxer breed requires food that is rich in protein. Feeding your Golden Boxer lean meats of high quality like chicken, lamb, fish, and beef are ideal. You can space out the meals, meals a day would be perfect, just ensure that they drink a lot of water after meals. Also, ensure that you feed your Golden Boxer at least an hour or two before you exercise them. If you are going to feed your Golden Boxer, processed food gotten from a store, do ensure you follow the guide written on the package for serving correctly. And avoid feeding your beloved dog food that uses non-meat or meat by-products as their main ingredients. Another important thing to note is, never overfeed your Golden Boxer, it has a tendency to become overweight and this is totally unhealthy for any dog breed as it could lead to terrible joint issues in the future. On average, 3 cups of dog food is okay for a day. Again, the high level of activeness and energy that the Golden Boxer inherits from both its Golden Retriever and Boxer parents means that the hybrid would require a lot of exercise to stay healthy and less destructive. Boredom for the Golden Boxer is a terrible thing, so exercise them daily. Setting an hour or two aside for long walks a day is a great start for the designer breed. Also, the appearance of the Golden Boxer has an effect on the level of exercise that would be required for the designer dog breed. If the Golden Boxer looks more like its Boxer parent, it would require much more intense hours of exercise than it would require if it looked more like its Golden Retriever parent. Regardless, the Golden Boxer requires a lot of exercise to stay less destructive. The best dog owner for the Golden Boxer would be an athletic or sporty person. Someone who loves to go on regular jogs, hiking, and other physically challenging activities. Taking your Golden Boxer companion on such activities would help them do away with all that excess energy that comes naturally to them. If you live in a property with a yard, then the Golden Boxer is perfect for you, however, if you stay in an apartment, it is still acceptable, as the Golden Boxer can adapt, you just have to ensure that you meet its exercise requirements daily and you both would be just fine. Plan your walks and other exercise activities with your dog properly. You could visit the dog parks for example, just ensure you keep your Golden Boxer on a leash when you do since it is a large dog. Socialization of the Golden Boxer is very important and the dog park is an excellent place to keep them socialized. By introducing your Golden Boxer pup to new faces, textures, and sounds and enrolling them in a training class for puppies, you help your Golden Boxer pup get more comfortable in new environments as well as easily adjust to them. A well-adjusted and comfortable Golden Boxer would easily get rid of aggressive behaviors and traits such as continuous barking, biting, and so on. Training your Golden Boxer should be an almost easy affair. This is because the Golden Boxer naturally loves to please its owner, and that habit or trait is why it would learn new commands with ease and high speed without you needing to repeat them. Try using positive reinforcement during your training of the Golden Boxer. Praise them when they have done well with gentle taps, nods and of course, treats. Be confident and firm when training them, but try as much as possible to avoid shouting or yelling at them when you train them. Your quick temper or show of anger could slow the process of learning for your dog. Keep each training session to a maximum of 30 minutes to 1 hour a day. Although, because the Golden Boxer is a people please it might want to stick out the full hour with you. Training the Golden Boxer yourself is a great way to establish a connection or bond with each other, so do not be quick to hire a dog trainer or a professional to train your Golden Boxer. Its great personality makes it an easy-to-train dog. If your Golden Boxer looks more like its Golden Retriever parent, it would inherit a thick double coat. However, if the Golden Boxer looks more like the Boxer parent breed, it would inherit a short but straight coat. Since both parent dog breeds are moderate shedders , then the Golden Boxer would also be a moderate shedder. You would be required to brush the coat of your Golden Boxer once a day with a sleek brush. This helps to keep the rich coat free from tangling, remove dead cells keep it healthy, and also keep any loose dog hair away from the car or home. For a Golden Boxer with a double coat that is long, it would require that you trim its coat frequently. During the shedding season, it is important to know that a Golden Boxer with a double coat tends to shed a lot more than normal, so the level of grooming that would be required would be much. Bathing your Golden Boxer should not be an everyday affair. In fact, you should only bathe it when it is necessary and do ensure that you make use of a good quality dog shampoo, to keep its fur protected. Also, the floppy ears of the Golden Boxer could easily get infected, so do ensure you keep it clean and dry always. Use a cotton ball or a damp cloth to clean its ears, do ensure it is thoroughly to avoid leaving debris. If your Golden Boxer drools more often than normal, it might be a sign of gum disease, so regular brushing helps you monitor the oral health of your Golden Boxer dog. You should also trim its nails often. Potential Health Issues of Golden Boxer A major reason for cross-breeding any dog species would be to create a strong breed or hybrid that is free from the health defects of its parent breed. In that regard, we can say that the Golden Boxer is a healthier breed when compared with its Golden Retriever and Boxer parent Selective breeding is usually done by most breeders to help eliminate certain health defects that are associated with its parent breed. This is why we always recommend that you do your proper research when getting any dog breed from any breeder no matter how reputable they claim to be. Demand for medical records, clearances, and certifications just to be extra sure, before taking the pup home. Here are some of the health conditions both minor and severe , that could most likely affect the Golden Boxer hybrid. Serious Health Conditions Severe health conditions like these could be fatal and threaten the life of your Golden Boxer, they should be taken with all seriousness. Cancer Cancer is a terrible health defect that could be passed down to the Golden Boxer from the Golden Retriever, as it is more prevalent in that parent breed. One in every five Golden Retriever breeds is affected by cancer, and the breed is susceptible to different cancer types, the most deadly and most common of which is hemangiosarcoma. It is therefore recommended that you take your beautiful Golden Boxer companion to the vet regularly for health checks and exams. Bloating Bloating is a terrible condition that is known to mostly affect dogs with a deep chest like the Boxer. If you notice that your Golden Boxer dog is constantly gasping for air, it might be suffering from bloat. The stomach lining could also get severely damaged. Ensure you keep your Golden Boxer on a high protein diet, and try to avoid fillers, in the form of excess dog treats. Bloating can be life-threatening to the Golden Boxer so do ensure you see a vet immediately if you notice anything weird. Minor Health Conditions Minor conditions could also be quite severe, but when spotted early, they can be treated. Some of these conditions are; 1. Joint Dysplasia This is a really painful health defect that is prone to most if not all dog species. It happens when the joints are incorrectly or improperly formed. This could cause the joints to rub and not move smoothly thereby wearing out the joints. It is quite painful and can lead to a dog being unable to bear its weight. Eye Defects Eye conditions such as cataracts are also quite common to the Golden Boxer. If you notice any irregularities or changes with the Golden Boxer pup ensure you call a vet to keep its eyes protected. Hypothyroidism When the thyroid gland of the Golden Boxer shrinks or gets inflamed, it could lead to Hypothyroidism. Other health conditions like cancer and hair loss and itchy skin can lead to hypothyroidism. This condition could lead to your Golden Boxer getting drooping ears or painful ears. However this is just the average cost, depending on each breeder, they could sell for a lot more, and with their increasing popularity, that might happen soon. Another factor to consider might be the expenses incurred in raising these little angels. The cost of neutering a Golden Boxer or genetically testing it could have an effect on the price that is set by the breeder. Also, you might need to factor in some other costs attributed to raising the pup such as purchasing a crate, a leash, microchipping the dog, purchasing a dog collar, visits to the vet, and other necessary expenses. And as your Golden Boxer gets older, It would require food, training, pet insurance, and vaccinations, so do ensure you consider the cost of all these before getting a Golden Boxer. Yes, the Golden Boxer hybrid is a great family dog, an awesome companion for you, and a best friend for children. Their playful nature makes them great for kids. However, this is only true if your Golden Boxer is socialized early and properly trained. They are clingy dogs that enjoy the company of their family, that is why they easily feel down and bored when left alone. When it comes to kids, the Golden Boxer makes a great friend and although they mean well, it is advised that you keep them away from toddlers and babies. This is because their large size might end up being harmful to them. Although, its large size could intimate smaller pets causing them to run which in turn would cause the Golden Boxer to chase after them. A socialized Golden Boxer would have no problem with this, their high intelligence and eagerness to please should help them in behaving well. Well, that is for you to decide. What really matters when it comes to the Golden Boxer is attention, Can you give the Golden Boxer the attention and care it requires? Answering that question with all honesty is how you know if the Golden Boxer is the right dog for you. The Golden Retriever Boxer mix is an excellent dog for a family home. Its playful, loving and affectionate personality could help bring the family closer together. But be careful tho, though this beautiful breed does get clingy so be sure to give it all your time. Ensure you keep your Golden Boxer on a rich protein diet while avoiding fillers, groom it regularly to maintain its rich luxurious coat, visit the local vet often for checks and exercise your dog regularly to keep them healthy and strong. Other Golden Retrievers Mixes. Lifespan Sociability The price of this pup will vary widely depending on the breeder as well as the cost of the parents. The litter size can also affect the price. If the breeder runs tests on the puppy to check for genetic health concerns, it can also increase the cost while providing you with a healthier dog. These dogs are clever and watchful. They will fit in with your family if you have kids and you will be most happy. The Boxer parent gets its name for the way it fights. Often swinging its paws like a boxer. The Boxer lineage can be traced back to Assyrian Empire war dogs. The parents of Golden Boxer. They love playing with and entertaining children, and they get along well with other pets. This breed is a little shy around strangers, so they are fantastic guard dogs, but they are not aggressive and quickly make friends. Too much isolation can cause depression or destructive behavior, which can include continuous barking. Are These Dogs Good for Families? It only barks a lot when upset and keeps a close eye on the house while you sleep. Regardless, the Golden Boxer makes friends quickly and likes to engage in play with cats as well as other dogs. It will even play with animals that enter the yard on many occasions. Avoid foods that use meat byproduct or other non-meat as its first ingredient. Following the instructions on the package serve the food in two to four smaller meals throughout the day instead of one large meal. You will need to commit to a minimum of two hours of engaging activity per day, which will require you to walk more than 11 miles per week at a minimum. Positive reinforcement training using rewards for good behavior is the best method to achieve results. Positive reinforcement means to give your pet plenty encouraging cheers and pets along with tasty treats when they complete a task. Another thing to remember when training is not to drag the session out or try too many tricks at once. Either way, it will require daily brushing to help remove shedding hair as well as keep the coat looking nice. The longer double coat may also require frequent trimming and detangling. Its floppy ears will need regular cleaning, and you will need to make sure they stay dry to lessen the chance of an ear infection. Minor Conditions. If you ever wondered what you could expect from a golden retriever boxer mix, the answer is dynamite! The golden boxer is a dog who is full of energy, incredibly loyal, eager to please, rather large, and often boisterous. In the same litter, you can have a pale golden puppy with wavy hair and a brindle puppy with short hair. Read on to find out if the golden boxer is the dog for you… Parentage Of The Golden Boxer As mentioned, predicting the physical characteristics of your golden boxer can be difficult as the parents are two very different-looking dogs. However, learning about the parent breeds is still very helpful because it provides you with an idea of how your golden boxer will behave. The Golden Retriever The golden retriever , as we know it today, originated in Scotland in the mid to late s and early s. There were many retrievers in the UK at the time. Their jobs were to chase down the birds, hares, or rabbits their human companion had shot down and retrieve it bring it back. In addition to their soft mouth, the golden retriever was bred to have a double coat to keep them warm and long legs to help them climb over and through dense brush. The area in which they had to do the retrieving was often marshy, so the dogs were bred to be excellent swimmers as well. For a more detailed look at how the golden retriever came to be, check out our dedicated article on their history. Golden retrievers are dedicated dogs who are highly loyal and easily trainable, which makes them excellent service animals. This means they are reliable dogs if trained and socialized appropriately. It is important to remember the golden retriever is a very high energy dog, which requires a lot of mental and physical stimulation. They definitely pass this trait on to their offspring. The Boxer The boxer is descended from an ancient lineage of dogs that traces its heritage back to the Assyrian empire in 2, BCE. The boxer, as we know it today, was bred in the late s in Germany. The breeders took the formidable Bullenbeisser and bred it with smaller mastiff dogs to create the boxer. The Bullenbeisser was a hunting dog used to tackle large animals such as bears, wild boar, and bison. Breeding with the smaller mastiffs gave the boxer a slimmer build and more temperate nature. This temperament and build has allowed the boxer to do many jobs over its lifetime such as war dog, police dog, guide dog, protection dog, and athlete. The boxer gets its name from the way the dog plays or defends itself. The Golden Boxer The golden boxer is not a mix you would expect, however they are the best of both of their parents. The golden boxer is a large dog measuring at 22 to 25 inches in height and weighing 60 to 75 pounds on average. There is no guarantee of how your golden boxer will look, especially if it is a first or second generation puppy, because the two parent breeds are so different. Your golden boxer can be a variety of colors, from black or brown to fawn or gold and have a short or long coat. Whereas their appearance may differ significantly, their temperament is pretty predictable. The golden boxer loves being part of the family, they are intelligent and protective, and they are always full of energy. The golden retriever and boxer have fairly similar personalities even though they come in vastly different packages; this means the golden boxer will have a similar personality. Love The golden boxer is a sensitive dog who thrives on affection and attention. They need to be loved on and cuddled every day to avoid feelings of abandonment. Even though they are large dogs, they cannot be locked out of the house and left in a yard their entire lives. Fun The golden boxer has a boisterous nature and loves to bounce around playing games. It is essential their energy is directed into fun and games where you actively play with them. If their energy is not positively directed, they can become very destructive and neurotic. Family The golden boxer loves being around family furry or non-furry , especially if the golden retriever side of their heritage is particularly strong. Golden boxers are an excellent choice if you have children, particularly children who can run around and play with them. Golden boxers will happily engage with other pets too! Make sure they are properly socialized and trained from the time they are a puppy in order to restrain their strength around smaller pets such as cats. Protection Owing to the nature of the golden retriever and the boxer, the golden boxer is very protective of who they feel is its family. Both parent dogs are used as working dogs and guide dogs, which means they have a fierce sense of loyalty. The golden boxer shares this loyalty for family and will guard your home and family fiercely against perceived intruders. Trainability The level of trainability of golden boxers is good to moderate depending on a number of variables. The golden retriever is a dog who is easily trained, while the boxer can be a bit more stubborn and resist training. However, if you are committed and consistent with their training and socialization, then training your golden boxer, no matter how stubborn they are, is possible. An untrained pug is much easier to pick up and put in a separate room than an untrained golden boxer. Large, untrained dogs with protective natures like the golden boxer can also pose a risk to strangers in the home as your dog will become overwhelmed. And if they are undisciplined, then they do not have the safety net of training to prevent snapping at an unwanted hand. Health Concerns Mixed breeds enjoy better health than either of their parent breeds because they have more genetic diversity and any breed-specific issues are diluted by having been bred with another type of dog. This means the golden boxer should enjoy better overall health than either the golden retriever or the boxer. The golden boxer seems like the ideal companion: loyal, loving, healthy, and the perfect cuddler. Golden boxers are full of energy. They need a minimum of two hours of exercise a day. This is a lot to expect from any owner so you need to make sure you are ready to commit a large amount of your energy to your dog. The two hours of exercise is best split up into smaller sessions throughout the day. They are large dogs and need to be physically exercised regularly to maintain their muscles and healthy joints. Daily walks, hikes, or runs that are at least half an hour long are ideal. They can be physically exercised by playing games like fetch, chase, or working through an obstacle course. Going to a dog park is also an excellent idea, provided your golden boxer is trained and has a strong recall command. Mental exercise is essential. Golden boxers are intelligent dogs and become bored fairly easily. Using puzzles and games to tire them out mentally is an excellent way to enhance their exercise needs. Slow feeders , lick mats , snuffle blankets , puzzle toys , and daily training are all excellent ideas to give them adequate mental exercise. As said previously, golden boxers can be stubborn if their boxer heritage is particularly strong. This means it will take you longer than average to train your golden boxer properly. You will need to devote time every day to training. Using a puppy training service is advisable with golden boxers; however, the hard work is done at home as you will need to carry through their training and be consistent to see positive results. However, with proper training, exercise, and discipline, you can reduce the amount of destruction your golden boxer is able to do. The puppies are called — adorably — Golden Boxer puppies! But before you are overcome with cuteness and rush out to find a litter of Golden Retriever Boxer puppies, it is wise to learn more about what your puppy might be like as an adult dog. In this article, we take a close look at the Golden Retriever Boxer mix dog so you can decide if this is the right companion for you! On one side, purebred dog breeders feel the breed lines should be kept pure. Any cross between two purebred dog breeds basically results in a mixed breed dog , or mutt. Conversely, canine biologists feel cross-breeding two purebred dog breeds together can have benefits to overall canine health. Since it is not possible to predict in advance which traits a puppy may inherit from either parent dog, the best way to try to imagine what your new pup might be like is to learn more about both the Golden Retriever and the Boxer. Origins of the Golden Retriever The Golden Retriever is currently the third most popular companion canine in the country. This gorgeous dog is of Scottish descent, with a long and honorable lineage as a working dog. This dog is just so friendly and sociable! Goldens make terrible guard dogs but wonderful best friends. The Golden Retriever, not surprisingly, takes its name from its long, lush golden coat. Origins of the Boxer The Boxer is currently the tenth most popular companion canine in the country. This dog, with its short coat and upturned ears, can easily turn heads. The Boxer is a truly ancient dog breed that can trace its lineage back to the time of the ancient Assyrians 2, BC. However, the modern Boxer arose in the s in Germany and soon migrated to the UK, where it became a favored working and pet dog. The Boxer gets its name from how it fights or boxes with its front paws — just like a prize fighter. What is the Golden Retriever Boxer mix dog like? The ability to predict what a Golden Retriever Boxer mix dog will be like has everything to do with the generation of puppies. The earliest litter, or F1 generation, will vary the most in size, weight, height, temperament, coat and other factors. These puppies are born from a pure cross of a Golden Retriever with a Boxer dog. The next litter, or F1b generation, will be more predictable in all attributes. These puppies are born from a cross between one purebred parent either a Golden Retriever or a Boxer with a Golden Retriever Box mix parent. Subsequent litters, or F2, F3, F4, and so on, will become more uniform over time. With longevity of breeding programs, what was once a hybrid dog breed may even become standardized as a new purebred dog breed! Males tend to be taller and heavier than females. Females tend to be about 15 pounds lighter and 1. From this, you can guesstimate your Golden Retriever Boxer Mix puppy will likely fall within the weight range of 60 to 75 pounds and stand .The Boxer, on the other hand, sheds very little and normally needs only a weekly brushing to keep coat and skin in tip-top condition. From this you can imagine how diverse the possible coat types in a litter of Golden Boxer dog puppies might be! You may find two pups with completely different coat types even within the same litter, especially if the litter is an F1 or F1b generation. Personality and Temperament of a Golden Retriever Boxer mix Even most non-dog-lovers know that Golden Retrievers are incredibly friendly. If they were people, they would be the ones planning the happy hours and pool parties. Boxers are bright, loyal, affectionate and loving. They are very patient and have natural protective tendencies that can necessitate extra efforts to socialize them in puppyhood. Both breeds tend to be exuberant and playful while young and can be stubborn at times because they are very smart. But both are natural people-pleasers and will take well to positive training methods. With two such positive, outgoing and people-pleasing parent dogs, you are quite likely to find that your Golden Retriever Boxer mix puppy has a lovely personality and temperament overall! Health Issues of Golden Retriever Boxer Mix dogs Both Golden Retrievers and Boxers, like so many purebred dogs today, can have certain genetic heritable health issues you will want to be aware of. Golden Boxer dog breeders who are serious about breeding healthy puppies will have their breeding stock parent dogs pre-screened and tested for all known breed-specific health conditions to avoid passing any preventable conditions on to the puppies. Commonalities in Health Concerns It is important to know that both Golden Retrievers and Boxers are prone to developing certain types of cancers. The ongoing Golden Retriever Lifetime Study was set up to better understand one of the most pervasive types of cancer in Goldens, hemangiosarcoma, as well as risk factors for other types of cancer and serious health conditions. The average life expectancy for Golden Retrievers is 10 to 12 years. The average life expectancy for Boxers is also 10 to 12 years. Socialization and training needs for Golden Retriever Boxer mix dogs Both Golden Retrievers and Boxers are bright, energetic, sociable and come from a long lineage of working dogs. This makes training both a necessity and, usually, a joy, since you will be working with a dog that really wants to learn, interact and please you! However, it is worth saying that smart dogs like Golden Retrievers and Boxers will only do well when trained using positive reinforcement methods. Is a Golden Retriever Boxer Mix a good family dog? Based on a study of the overall temperament and personality traits of the Golden retriever and the Boxer, respectively, the Golden Retriever Boxer mix dog is quite likely to make a great family dog. This is true even for families with young children. How to Pick Golden Retriever Boxer mix puppies Choosing a Golden Boxer breeder that is reputable, responsible and serious about breeding healthy Boxer Retriever mix puppies will be critical. This is a question that is very personal, of course, but for the right family or individual, a Golden Retriever Boxer mix dog can make a great canine companion! If you already have some experience with a mix dog like this, let us know in the comments! Houses with yards and families with children Temperament: Happy, clever, intelligent, protective, alert, watchful, and eager to please. It has increasingly become popular in the last years, with breeders developing more diverse species. The parent breed, the Golden Retriever, was developed in Scotland in the mids by Lord Tweedmouth. This dog was created as a solution for hunters who needed a dog adept at retrieving downed waterfowl. On the other hand, the Boxer originated in Germany back in the s. Bred as a guard dog, this dog was put in an exhibition in in Munich and later arrived in the U. S and Europe in the s. They were used as messenger dogs, attack dogs, and pack carriers during World War 1. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Golden Boxer Puppies A post shared by Russell russellthegb Golden Boxer puppies are cute, cuddly, and full of energy, and this tends to stay the same even as they grow. They are very happy and love to spend time with their families. These dogs are unlikely to be found in rescue shelters and often come from breeders so we recommend you do your homework and ask all of the right questions before you begin to work with any breeder. Apart from paying for your new dog, you need to ensure you factor in other initial costs associated with bringing a puppy home, such as a leash, crate, dog collar, microchip, and medical costs if your dog is not neutered. These expenses are a necessity, especially if you are a first-time dog owner. Your dog will thank you for them all. They are intelligent and clever; therefore, they can learn quickly and love to please their owners. They are affectionate, loyal, and outgoing breeds that also love playing with and entertaining children. Golden Boxers tend to be very shy and reserved around strangers, but this is advantageous because it makes them fantastic watchdogs. However, they are not aggressive to strangers but will alert you about the presence of a new face. Golden Boxers are ideal for an active, fun-loving family. These dog breeds are also very patient and willing. Despite been very polite, this dog can be high-spirited sometimes like the parent breed, the Boxer. As a family dog, too much isolation can lead to depression or destructive behavior such as continuous barking and chewing items in the house. Are These Dogs Good for Families? However, they still need early socialization and training to bring out these qualities further. These breeds tend to bond very closely with the family. If you are always at work without a sitter or family member around, this may not be the best dog species for your family. They are great pets to have around children because they like playing with them a lot. They should avoid habits such as tail pulling, rough play, and teasing. They also bark a lot when they are upset but make good guard dogs for the house when the family is sleeping. The Golden Boxer adapts well to sharing space with cats and other dogs. However, when small cats run away due to intimidation, the prey drive might kick in, and your Golden Boxer might chase the cat. When socialized at an early age, this dog breed will co-exist with other dogs peacefully. It makes friends very quickly; therefore, it will engage with other animals or pets that walk stray into your compound. This breed needs lots of attention from the family; therefore, you need to provide all the necessities. Like any other dog breed, you need to know the diet requirements, training and exercise needs, grooming, and any health and medical conditions. You can include quality lean meats such as lamb, beef, and chicken. When planning the feeding schedule, the diet should be according to the size, age, and activity level. These breeds are highly prone to bloating; therefore, they should not be fed all the food at once. The meals should be spread out to 2—3 meals throughout the day together with water. In addition, you should feed the dog an hour or two before an exercise session. When feeding your Golden Boxer, avoid foods that use meat by-products or other non-meat as their first ingredient. Once you buy food from the stores, follow the instructions on the package to ensure that the meals are served correctly. This dog tends to become obese and develop joint issues. Apart from food, the treats should also be kept to a minimum. To avoid this, you should schedule one long daily walk or two hours of engaging activity. Because of their high energy needs, the ideal owner for this dog breed is an active person who can bring the dogs along for a jog, hike, or walks. This dog can adapt well to living in an apartment, but with enough exercise outside. This dog species is perfect if you have a yard. You can plan for activities such as walks in the dog park. These walks in the park are also suitable for his socialization process. It helps bring out the best qualities in your pet and makes things easier for you. Exposure to new people, places, and situations and puppy training classes will encourage your dog and make it comfortable. It will also discourage some aggressive behaviors because the dog is more comfortable. Because of this, it will also listen to commands much faster without requiring a lot of repetition. During the training, you should be firm and confident. Also, use positive reinforcement such as praises to encourage your dog to pick up commands much easier. Incorporate some treats to keep your puppy happy during the training session. You should also avoid shouting or yelling at your dog during training. The sessions should also not be very long. Shorten them to an hour or less each day to help with concentration. Because Golden Boxers are devout people-pleasers, they use these moments to show you how well they respond. In addition, this may also be a perfect time to strengthen the bond between you and the dog. These dogs are moderate shedders; hence will need regular brushing, ideally once a day. Brushing daily is good because it helps to keep the coat tangle-free and keeps loose hair away from your home or car. The breeds with a long double coat require frequent trimming. You can either do this at home or hire a professional groomer. You should bathe your dog only when necessary and ensure that you use dog shampoo to protect the fur coat. This dog breed also has floppy ears; hence, they should always be kept clean to avoid infection. It would be best if you also kept them dry at all times. You can also do this by wiping with a damp cloth or cotton ball. In addition, you should trim the nails and brush the teeth at least three times a week. Breeders always try to improve their health conditions by carrying out selective breeding. However, even with this precaution, some conditions might be passed down to the offspring. Therefore, you should always research the potential medical conditions your pup may be prone to, as well as ask the breeder for medical records before taking your dog home. Minor Conditions.

Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Aussiedoodle Overview Aussiedoodles are a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle. They are medium to large dogs, with a height of inches and weight of pounds. They have a wavy or curly coat that can come in a variety of colors, including black, brown, red, blue merle, and sable. Aussiedoodles are known for their friendly, loving, and intelligent temperament. They are good with children and other pets, and they make great family dogs. They are also active and playful dogs, and they need plenty of exercise. Here are some of the specific traits that are common in Aussiedoodles: Friendly and outgoing. Aussiedoodles are typically very friendly and outgoing dogs. They love to meet new people and make new friends. They are also good with children and other pets. Loyal and affectionate. Aussiedoodles are very loyal and affectionate dogs. They love to cuddle and spend time with their families. They are always happy to see their loved ones, and they make great companions. Intelligent and easy to train. Aussiedoodles are very intelligent dogs, and they are easy to train. They are eager to please their owners, and they respond well to positive reinforcement. Active and playful. Aussiedoodles are active and playful dogs. They need plenty of exercise, such as long walks, hikes, or games of fetch. They are also good at agility training and other dog sports. Some Aussiedoodles are hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for people with allergies. Overall, Aussiedoodles are wonderful dogs that make great family pets. They are friendly, loving, intelligent, and active. If you are looking for a loyal and devoted companion, an Aussiedoodle may be the perfect breed for you. However, it is important to note that not all Aussiedoodles will exhibit all of these traits. Some Aussiedoodles may be more reserved or independent than others. It is important to do your research and meet a few Aussiedoodles before you decide if this breed is right for you. Grooming: Aussiedoodles require regular grooming, especially if they have a curly coat. This can be expensive and time-consuming. Exercise: Aussiedoodles are active dogs and need plenty of exercise. This can be a challenge if you have a busy lifestyle. Training: Aussiedoodles are intelligent dogs and can be easy to train. However, they can also be stubborn at times. If you are considering getting an Aussiedoodle, it is important to do your research and make sure that you are prepared for the commitment. They are wonderful dogs, but they do require a lot of care and attention. Aussiedoodle Highlights Aussiedoodles are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Australian Shepherd or Poodle parents. Many Aussiedoodle owners claim that they are hypoallergenic dogs and may be better for allergy sufferers, though no dog is completely hypoallergenic. Aussiedoodles are smart dogs and require mental stimulation. If they become bored, they may act out in destructive ways. Some Aussiedoodles have wavier coats, while others have tighter curls like their Poodle parents. Aussiedoodles with shorter hair may be better for allergy sufferers, but it is not a guarantee. Aussiedoodle History The Aussiedoodle mixed dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Australian Shepherds and Poodles in the late s or early s, likely in North America. It makes sense why the Aussiedoodle started booming in popularity, given how smart, playful, and cute the Poodle and the Australian Shepherd are. Even though the Aussiedoodle mixed breed got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up Aussiedoodle rescues, or check with breed-specific Australian Shepherd or Poodle rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Aussiedoodle Size As the Aussiedoodle is a relatively new breed — and there are size variations ranging from toy to standard for the Poodle — there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between Poodle and Australian Shepherd parents, you can expect Aussiepoodles to range in size from a small-to-medium size. Most weigh in at 25 to 70 pounds and range in height from 10 to 15 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. No matter their size, whether they are a smaller Aussiedoodle from a Toy Poodle or a larger Aussiedoodle from a Standard Poodle, you can expect this dog to have a lot of energy. You can keep your Aussiedoodle occupied with long hikes, walks, beach days, or retrieval games. Australian Shepherds are herding dogs, so your Aussiedoodle may try to round you, kids, or other things up! They are also incredibly smart, thanks to both their Australian Shepherd and Poodle parents, so your Aussiedoodle will require a lot of mental stimulation. If bored, Aussiedoodles can easily become destructive. Aussiedoodles also love to be around their humans. Like the Australian Shepherd, Aussiedoodles will sometimes get closer and stick with one or two of their favorite humans. Aussiedoodle Health The Aussiedoodle breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Australian Shepherd and Poodle also face. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Some of the most common health ailments Aussiedoodles suffer from include:. Black and red, blue merle, black and tan, red merle, sable Suitable for: Those with dog allergies, those looking for a low-shedding dog, active families Temperament: Loving, energetic, easy to train This breed is fairly new, and because it is a designer breed, it is not registered with the American Kennel Club. If you are interested in learning more about the Aussiedoodle breed, keep reading this guide. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Aussiedoodle Puppies Image Credit: Lindsay Odell, Pixabay When you welcome an Aussiedoodle into your home, you can expect to have a loving and energetic dog around. Aussiedoodles are medium dogs that are great for people with allergies. Aussiedoodles are generally healthy as long as they are fed correctly and have enough exercise. As you can see, this breed ranks high in almost every category. They are also very affectionate and loving with their owners, enjoy human interaction, and require lots of attention. As such, they will not do well outdoors or in kennels. However, if you want a highly intelligent dog that will adore you and your family, this could be the dog for you. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are extremely loving and high-energy dogs who will be perfect play companions for your children. However, as with any breed of dog, you should take care to teach your children how to be safe when playing with your Aussiedoodle. As long as he is introduced to your other pets early on, your Aussiedoodle will get along with your other dogs, and maybe even your cats, without any issue. Be mindful that without this socialization, your Aussiedoodle may try to herd any smaller animals you have due to his Australian Shepherd ancestry. You should look at the labels to ensure you are providing your dog with the highest quality diet that you can reasonably afford. Just like with human food, higher quality dog food tends to contain whole, simple ingredients. The amount of food you give your Aussiedoodle depends on its size. Smaller Aussiedoodles with miniature Poodle ancestry will need less food than a standard Aussiedoodle. Using this formula, a dog weighing about 50 pounds would need about calories per day. If possible, avoid leaving food out all day and limit treats because Aussiedoodles are prone to overeating. Aussiedoodles are high-energy dogs that need a lot of exercise. You should plan to dedicate at least an hour each day to walking or jogging with your dog to ensure that he gets the exercise he needs. In addition to physical exercise, your Aussiedoodle needs lots of mental stimulation. The best way to train your Aussiedoodle is to reward them for positive behaviors; they do not respond well to anger and harsh techniques. If you remain calm and assertive when training your Aussiedoodle, he will learn quickly and eagerly do what you want him to do. Some Aussiedoodles have wavy coats while some have curly coats. Generally speaking, a dog whose coat has a wavy texture only needs to be combed one to two times per week. In fact, many mixed breed dogs tend to be healthier than their purebred counterparts. However, the Aussiedoodle did inherit some health risk factors from its parent breeds. Like any dog, they are prone to certain health conditions that you should be aware of. Minor Conditions Sensitivity to Ivermectin a drug used to treat parasites like fleas and ticks Serious Conditions. Life Span Did You Know? The Aussiedoodle, sometimes also called an Aussiepoo, is a mixed dog breed that is more popular in the US than they are in Australia. They are a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle. Their friendly, sweet nature makes them a good fit as companions and as working dogs. They can often be found serving as therapy dogs, service dogs, and emotional support animals. Both of the dog breeds in this cross are intelligent with friendly dispositions. As such, Aussiedoodles tend to be intelligent, friendly, and affectionate dogs. This mixed dog breed is very playful and gets along well with children and other people and animals. They make great companions that are devoted to their families and love to be around their humans. Because of the Australian Shepherd in the cross, your Aussiedoodle may inherit herding instincts. If your Aussiedoodle starts showing herding behavior, it can be curbed early on by training to redirect that energy towards more positive outlets. The Aussiedoodle adapts well to change. They do well in most climates, but, as with any dog, do not typically do well in extreme hot or cold. They are best-suited for active families and homes with yards where they can romp around. Aussiedoodles can do well in apartments, as long as they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. However, they do not like to be alone for long periods of time and they can develop separation anxiety. If you do have to leave your Aussiedoodle alone, make sure to leave them plenty of challenging toys and puzzles to keep them occupied. Although sometimes mixed breeds win the genetic lottery, they can also still sometimes be prone to the health conditions common to both of the parent breeds. The Aussiedoodle is generally a very healthy dog, but some common health issues to be aware of include hypothyroidism , hip dysplasia, deafness, and epilepsy. Checking the genetic history of the parents and asking for the results of any health screens can give you an idea of what to expect in a puppy and allay any health concerns. The Aussiedoodle is known for being an intelligent crossbreed. This often makes them highly trainable. They are also sensitive and eager to please, which means they respond best to positive training techniques focused on rewards and praise. Early socialization and training help your Aussiedoodle puppy grow into a well-adjusted dog. Due to their high energy level, they tend to be a better fit for intermediate to experienced dog owners that know how to handle their energy and keep up with them. Their intelligence, paired with their high energy level and working group background, means they are often easily bored and do best when they have a job to do. The busier and more engaged their job keeps them the better. They also love learning new tricks! Without a job to do, they will find ways to entertain themselves, which can result in unwanted or even destructive behavior. Between the Australian Shepherd and the Standard Poodle , the Aussiedoodle coat colors and patterns vary greatly. With the Poodle in the mix, this mixed dog breed can pick up some hypoallergenic qualities and is often low-shedding. However, they have can long, straight fur, a curly coat, or something in the middle, so be prepared for regular grooming to prevent tangles and matting. You may also need to have them professionally groomed every months. Start getting your puppy used to you handling their paws and ears and brushing their teeth early on. Daily brushing is ideal to help keep tartar buildup at bay. An Aussiedoodle will generally have a moderate to high energy level. A good walk a few times a day paired with some active playtime and plenty of attention will keep this pup happy and healthy. Aussiedoodles are also active and athletic enough to compete in dog sports. They tend to be a good fit for flyball, agility, rally, and obedience. They may also love to swim, which is a great activity to help them expel extra energy. In addition to going swimming with your dog , you can also take your Aussiedoodle on a hike with you or on trips to the dog park. Aussiedoodles are medium-sized dogs that usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Looking at the size of the parents, particularly the mother, can give you a good idea of what size to expect in your Aussiedoodle. An Aussiedoodle generally lives for years. Aussiedoodles are fantastic companions and highly intelligent. Featured Aussiedoodle Article. Vocality level 5 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. The Australian Shepherd, one of their breeds of origin, is a herding dog, so this instinct may kick in at times! It is important to train your Aussiedoodle with this behavior in mind early on. You can consult with a professional trainer for the best method to do so. Because they are outgoing and sweet dogs, they do make great family pets and usually get along well with children and other animals. Be sure that introductions with other pets are done slowly and keep your Aussiedoodle socialized from the start to ensure success with other animals. Upkeep Mental stimulation and proper exercise are key in the health and happiness of your Aussiedoodle or any Aussie mix. They need to work those brains! While they can thrive as an apartment dog with lots of daily exercise, they would also do exceptionally well in a home with a fenced in yard that they can run in. Due to their intelligence, they would also be good candidates for agility or flyball, or just working basic training tricks. The fur of an Aussiedoodle can vary from wavy to tight curls to shorter coats. Depending on the Aussiedoodle, professional grooming may be required every two to three months. In addition, basic care like regular nail trims, ear cleaning, brushing, and teeth brushing are required. The Aussiedoodle is a newer occurrence, dating back to the late s or early s, possibly originating in North America. This smart and sweet mix may have existed due to accidental breeding before then, until their appeal as pets was recognized. It is easy to see why Aussiedoodles and Aussie mixes in general have gained popularity in the last 20 years, as they are adorable, playful and smart companion pets. Related Content. Even though they are a relatively new hybrid breed, Aussiedoodles have a somewhat standard appearance. They are medium-sized dogs with long, squarish bodies and heads. Their triangular ears tend to flop over slightly and frame their face. When it comes to color, you can expect them to be a blue or red merle, black and tan, black and red, or sable—they do not seem to pick up on the browns or lighter shades of their poodle parent. They require a lot of your attention and care, so be prepared! Personality And Temperament Aussiedoodles are very loving, affectionate dogs. You are their family, they are your family, and that is the end of it. They will stick by you quite literally to your side in thick and thin. Have we stressed they are loving yet? Not only are they a loving dog, but they are also goofy, fun dogs to be around. They are not haughty or independent like their poodle parents tend to be. Aussiedoodles are incredibly smart dogs who pick up on training very quickly and may even give you a couple of human-like facial expressions that make you think they can understand way more than they should. Socializing your Aussiedoodle with other dogs is essential to ensure they do not constantly try and herd them. Socializing your Aussiedoodle from an early age will help them treat other dogs more as dogs and not as animals to be herded. If their coat becomes compacted, it can lead to hair loss and skin infections and be very painful for the dog. However, if it is curly like the poodle parent, then you may need to brush your Aussiedoodle every second day. You may choose to trim or shave your Aussiedoodle to keep up with its flowing locks in any way you wish. Some owners like the pompon style of the continental poodle cut, while others prefer a simple sporting cut on their dog. As their ears tend to flop forwards, you will need to clean them out once a week to ensure there is no hair or wax build-up that can lead to an infection. Thanks to their poodle parent, the Aussiedoodle is a low-shedding, low-allergen dog. Of course, no dog is completely hypoallergenic. However, the Aussiedoodle comes fairly close. Exercise Your Aussiedoodle needs a lot of exercise. With parents who are sporting and herding dogs, it is unimaginable to keep an Aussiedoodle cooped up all day and expect them to be happy. Your Aussiedoodle should be allowed to roam around freely during the day and engage themselves as much as possible with their environment and playmates. Having other dogs is a big bonus with Aussiedoodles, as they do not do well when left alone. A minimum of an hour a day should be devoted to actively playing with or exercising your Aussiedoodle. You can take them on a walk or a hike, play retrieving games with them, take them to a dog park, run around the yard with them, do some obedience training, or even go for a good, long run. Without enough physical exercise, your Aussiedoodle will become bored, destructive, and irritable and generally be an unpleasant dog to be around. Mental stimulation is essential, too. Engaging your Aussiedoodle mentally will help wear them out and enrich their lives to no end. Consider using puzzles , slow feeder bowls , communication buttons, and toys. Aussiedoodle Health Concerns In general, Aussiedoodles are very healthy dogs. They have the added benefit of being a hybrid dog, which means they have access to a larger gene pool which allows for better genetic diversity and strength. However, yearly vet visits are still a must. Some common health issues your Aussiedoodle can develop include: Hip and elbow dysplasia. This isn't one of those click-bait articles with an intriguing title that is meant to draw you in, and then, WHAM--the article is about why you should adopt an Aussiedoodle. That isn't what I'm doing here. I want to talk to you about Aussiedoodles and why they may not be a good fit for your family. And in learning why they may not be a good fit, you may discover that this breed is ideally suited to your lifestyle! But remember, that's NOT why I'm writing this article.Our mission with Rebecca Creek Retrievers is to educate the public about Aussiedoodle puppy ownership and training. I am not fulfilling this mission without being completely transparent about the breeds and types of dogs we produce. So why am I "dogging" on Aussiedoodles? I obviously like the breed since they are an integral part of my program. I have come to appreciate, respect, and love the cross between the Standard Poodle and Australian Shepherd. I have carefully procured breeding dogs of each pure breed that complement each other in temperament and structure. Many breeders will take a Poodle and an Aussie Australian Shepherd and breed them together without consideration for structure or temperament. These breeders might be focusing on pretty merle coats or striking blue eyes. Learn more about Aussiedoodles on TellTail. Oftentimes, miniature dogs are created simply by breeding only the smallest dogs from every litter. These small dogs are coupled, and the smallest pups are kept and bred. And the cycle continues. Sometimes, no consideration for health, structure, or temperament is taken into account because the main focus is size. I'm not saying that all miniature dogs are poorly bred. I would love to have someday miniature varieties of my well-bred poodles and hybrids doodles. Still, I've yet to find breeding dogs that exemplify their standard counterparts in structure, temperament, and health that are owned by breeders who will share them with me. If you want a mini doodle Aussiedoodle mini size , please consider finding a breeder who rigorously performs health and temperament tests. Pedigrees Are Important Please look for a breeder with registered dogs or one who can provide, at minimum, three-generation pedigrees for every breeding dog. Registration is not as important as having honest pedigrees. A dog can be unregistered, but the breeder can still have access to quality pedigrees that show that dog's lineage. This is important to prevent inbreeding. Without a pedigree, a breeder cannot be sure if they are inbreeding. Because "mini Aussies" are not registerable, while Miniature American Shepherds are, many breeders of mini and toy Aussies do not have pedigrees. They cannot effectively prevent inbreeding in their programs. An ethical breeder will be willing to furnish a copy of pedigrees for their dogs upon request. A pedigree is not the same as registration papers. A dog's pedigree refers to the lineage or family tree of the dog, including information about the dog's ancestors and their characteristics. My husband has a family member with a phenomenal small standard Australian Shepherd. His owner called him a "miniature Aussie. We met the dog, and he wasn't miniature at all! He was a slightly smaller-than-normal Aussie. We interacted with him over a weekend vacation and just knew that Chet the Aussie and our small Standard Poodle, Chloe, needed to have puppies. He is much smaller than an Australian Shepherd; however, he looks identical to one in structure and other physical features. He does not have short legs and prick ears. He looks like an Aussie, only smaller! This proper structure indicates sound breeding decisions by his owner and we are so proud to have Chet at the foundation of our Aussiedoodle lines. Chet comes from the foundation Miniature American Shepherd stock. Many dogs from this original breeding stock are not registered with large pedigree databases such as the AKC. The Miniature American Shepherd was created by carefully breeding small Australian Shepherds together over many generations. The Miniature American Shepherd is now an AKC-recognized breed thanks to the hard work of hundreds of focused breeders! Genetics are so interesting, and the companies that offer these testing services are constantly evolving to keep up with changes in the registries, such as the AKC. The puppies were not only gorgeous, but they were sweet, intelligent, and entertaining. They remain to be one of our most popular litters to date. We learned a lot from the first litter of Aussiedoodles. We knew that we would need to continue to carefully select breeding pairs based on structure, health, and especially temperament. These Aussiedoodle puppies displayed a very balanced mix of herding and protection traits from the Australian Shepherd or Miniature American Shepherd , as well as the enhanced intelligence and composure of the Standard Poodle. Three Generations in the Making We kept one of the pups from that very first litter of Aussiedoodles out of Chet and Chloe, born in , so we could someday breed back to a Standard Poodle to create even more predictability in coat type and temperament. Opal, a dog from our first litter of Aussiedoodles The puppy we kept from that first litter of Aussiedoodles is named Opal. She is a red merle Aussiedoodle. She whelped three outstanding litters for our program and has helped us grow our Aussiedoodle lines. Opal matured to be one of the most amazing dogs we have been privileged to own. She was raised in a Guardian Home and spent a lot of time here with us, too. Opal displays minimal herding behaviors but is fiercely loyal and quietly protective of her family. She finished her training at just 1. We are so proud of Opal and her breeding and training accomplishments! We kept a puppy named Sadie from one of Opal and Otis' litters that was whelped in .Sadie is cream in color. When we chose to keep Sadie, we considered things like health, structure, and temperament. Sadie had a curly coat and did not test positive for merle. This is important because the cream coat color can hide a merle coat pattern, and all cream Aussiedoodles should be tested for merle before breeding! Sadie is now of breeding age and has matured into a phenomenal Aussiedoodle. Sadie represents our second generation of Aussiedoodles! She is considered an F1b Aussiedoodle. Sadie does not display any herding behaviors. She is fun to train, spunky, and active like the Australian Shepherd. She is witty and uber-smart, like the Standard Poodle. Her Guardian Home raised Sadie, and her favorite thing is to go squirrel hunting with her owner. We hope Sadie will make her debut as a mother in ! Sadie's puppies will represent our third generation of Rebecca Creek Retriever Aussiedoodles! We called these puppies "Golden Aussiedoodles. We DNA-tested every puppy. We chose to try this cross because we wanted to bring in some of the English Golden Retriever sturdiness structure and add even more genetic diversity to our Aussiedoodle lines. Remember, an Aussiedoodle is a mixed-breed dog. Why not add a bit of Golden Retriever to enhance this fantastic cross even more? Here is a photo of one of Opal's Golden Aussiedoodle puppies: River, one of our Golden Aussiedoodle puppies We decided to keep River from this litter and add her to our breeding dog lineup for our Aussiedoodle lines! So far, River is maturing to be a beautiful dog and a well-behaved, loyal, intelligent, and trainable Aussiedoodle. We hope River will make her debut as a mom in ! River's puppies will also represent our third generation of Rebecca Creek Retriever Aussiedoodles. Oakley is a registered, purebred Australian Shepherd who belongs to an Australian Shepherd breeder in Texas and his breeder is terrific! Oakley the F1 Aussiedoodle This litter of F1 Aussiedoodles born in was another excellent example of this famous doodle cross! We kept a puppy from this litter and placed her in a Guardian Home. We named her Oakley, after her sire. Oakley displays some herding characteristics and many retriever characteristics! She lives with her Guardian Home on a acre farm in Missouri! It's a little far from our home here in South Texas, but her owners are family members, and we couldn't be happier about the extra-special life she lives. Oakley enjoys herding and protecting her flock of chickens! Sometimes she is even caught eating a few of their eggs. I guess it's fair payment for such quality guardianship! Oakley on a tractor with her owner We hope Oakley will make her debut as a mom in ! So, we have been working through several generations to continue producing the best Aussiedoodles! I withdrew all these dogs from my program before I bred them! I am sharing the following information without photos or identifiable information regarding the breeders of these puppies and dogs. The breeders I worked with were responsible and ethical, and in every one of these situations, these breeders made ethical decisions to help me place these puppies and dogs in loving pet homes. Ethical breeders understand that despite our best efforts in health testing and selecting compatible breeding pairs, many things like genetics can still be out of our control. That is why looking for a breeder with health testing and temperament testing practices is imperative. It is also essential to purchase a puppy with a very sound purchase contract and comprehensive health warranty. One puppy that we purchased in hopes of him becoming a stud for our program was diagnosed with congenital eye defects at just a few months of age. This was discovered through my routine but rigorous health testing practices. Thank goodness I opted for eye certification through a board-certified opthalmologist! This defect would have most certainly been passed on to offspring. I spent thousands of dollars on purchasing and testing this puppy, only to have to retire him early from my program. This puppy was placed in a loving pet home that understands his condition. Another puppy that we purchased with hopes of him becoming a stud for our program was diagnosed with elbow dysplasia at just over a year of age. We raised this puppy for an entire year from 8 weeks of age and fell in love with him! We discovered his elbow dysplasia right before we officially began his orthopedic testing. He started limping one day, and we proceeded with radiographs of the joints. We were saddened to learn that we could not breed this beautiful puppy. I spent thousands more dollars on purchasing and health testing this puppy and a full year of raising and training him in our home, only to have to retire him early from my program. This puppy was also placed in a loving pet home that understands his condition. We purchased a 1-year-old dog from a breeder to breed her someday to produce Aussiedoodle puppies. After owning her for an entire year and watching her fully mature into a 2-year-old dog, we decided that her temperament was not the right fit for what our customers look for in an Aussiedoodle puppy. This dog was very healthy and sound! She was also very sweet and loyal. But she had way too much energy and herding drive for our comfort. This decision was particularly difficult. It's one thing to retire a puppy or dog early because of health issues. It's especially difficult to retire a friendly, beautiful, healthy dog due to minor temperament nuances. However, this is where Rebecca Creek Retrievers and other very discerning Aussiedoodle breeders stand apart from backyard breeders. We select only the very best of the best to breed and propagate our lines! Look for an Aussiedoodle breeder with these same standards. Australian Shepherds are not. Aussies are herding dogs. So the thought of crossing the two breeds made me cringe before I carefully tried it myself. And the practice of crossing these two breeders together still makes me proceed with great caution and careful planning. A new breeder is probably not experienced with owning and training both breeds, the Poodle and the Australian Shepherd. I wasn't, either! I am experienced in owning, raising, training, and breeding breeds: the Australian Shepherd and similar Miniature American Shepherd , and the Standard Poodle. I'm also experienced in owning, raising, training, and breeding the Aussiedoodle! Here is the potential problem with pairing an Aussie and a Poodle. Two breeds with conflicting instincts retrieving vs. Please ask your breeder how they choose their breeding pairs and how those pairs will complement each other. Ask to see photos and videos of past puppies and pictures and videos of how these puppies have matured into functional adult family pets. An ethical breeder should be more than willing to answer questions like these about her dogs and their breeding choices. Sadie, F1b Aussiedoodle puppy Aussiedoodles can be phenomenal dogs when bred using careful calculations and scrutiny from breeders. Selecting complimentary breeding pairs will result in puppies that are intelligent, sweet and charming and that have appropriate energy levels and impulse controls. Health testing all breeding dogs thoroughly helps us choose breeding pairs with a high chance of producing puppies without inherited health issues. We have found that our Aussiedoodle puppies often display both instinctual behaviors of herding and retrieving very well. These herding behaviors are not usually apparent until weeks of age and sometimes much later. This is typically after puppies move in with their new families. These behaviors will surprise a family that is not prepared for them. Herding behaviors can manifest in the following but not limited to ways: Nipping at clothing or body parts while you or your children are walking attempting to herd people Jumping up and nipping at the face in an attempt to get your attention Chasing, barking and biting moving household objects such as brooms, mops, etc. These instinctive behaviors require intense obedience training and proper daily stimulation to relieve the pressure of these instincts. We encourage owners to provide an outlet for these behaviors rather than attempting to suppress them , such as lure coursing, herding trials, or even just playing a nice long game of fetch every day! These instinctual behaviors need to be appropriately fed and nurtured to keep your Aussiedoodle happy and well-behaved. We send all of our puppies home with a FREE 6-week online puppy training course because we believe in early obedience training and proper socialization. We highly recommend starting your obedience training with Baxter and Bella's Online Puppy Training School if your breeder does not offer free training for your puppy. Color or Health? A Golden Aussiedoodle puppy I want to address another aspect of the Aussiedoodle: coat color and markings. Australian Shepherds are a breed built around recessive color genetics and susceptible color gene mutations. These include the recessive "tan point" phantom genes and the dominant merle mutation. That's right--the merle color gene results from a mutation. When breeding dogs are selected and paired with a primary focus on color traits, other essential characteristics such as health, structure, and temperament are de-prioritized or ignored. We select our breeding pairs for health, structure, and temperament first. Our litters include various colors and patterns: black, brown, apricot, cream, merle, phantom, parti, and abstract. We embrace all of these colors and patterns. We are breeding Aussiedoodles because we enjoy their personalities. We are selecting breeding pairs that complement each other in health, structure, and temperament, with little regard for color or pattern except for the merle mutation. Merle dogs attract a lot of attention. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so I can't say that merle dogs attract attention simply because they are beautiful. However, there is no denying the fact that they are indeed very unique in appearance! A red merle Australian Shepherd Merle is a color mutation that does not behave the same as other color traits. Two merle dogs should never be bred together, as this can result in blind and deaf puppies. When two merle dogs are bred together, the puppies are known as "double merle. All merle dogs should undergo extensive health testing before breeding to ensure that they do not have any health problems related to this mutation. Some dogs are genetically merle they carry the merle mutation but do not have a merle coat pattern. They are known as "cryptic merles" or "hidden merles. If a cryptic merle is bred to a merle, the resulting offspring can be double merle, meaning they are at a high risk of being born with severe congenital defects. This is why finding a breeder who thoroughly health tests their breeding dogs and understands how genetics work is crucial when looking for an Aussiedoodle puppy. Your dog's color will not affect your lifelong relationship with the dog. It is crucial to keep the above statement in mind when looking for an Aussiedoodle puppy for sale because it's true! The color of your puppy will not determine the puppy's temperament or personality. But the color of your puppy might affect his health. Take all of this information into account when interviewing breeders. We subject all our breeding dogs, including our merle dogs, to rigorous health testing to ensure that breeding pairs will produce puppies with a low risk of being born with health issues. A Golden Aussiedoodle puppy Do you think an Aussiedoodle is the right breed for you and your family? I recommend having a family meeting and writing down all the things important to you in a brand-new puppy for your family. Remember that your new puppy might live years, decide what traits or attributes may affect your long-term relationship with him. Keep reading to find a checklist to help you make this critical decision. Let's get back to that. Here are the most popular reasons people adopt Aussiedoodles and why you should not if these are your reasons: I want an Aussiedoodle because they have blue eyes! This is a vain and insignificant reason to adopt a dog that needs specialized care and training. Your Aussiedoodle puppy's eye color will not be a reflection of his adult temperament and personality. I want an Aussiedoodle because they are merle! Not all Aussiedoodles are merle. Color and coat pattern will not affect your lifelong relationship with your Aussiedoodle. I want an Aussiedoodle because they don't shed! Aussiedoodles are not hypoallergenic. The Aussiedoodle is a mixed breed dog; unless you DNA test each puppy, you will not know their coat genetics or whether they will shed. Most Aussiedoodles will shed a little bit. If you have severe allergies, proceed with caution. Also, keep in mind that lower shedding equals more grooming. I want an Aussiedoodle because I had Australian Shepherds growing up, and now I want one that doesn't shed. An Aussiedoodle is not an Australian Shepherd. It is a mixed breed dog resulting from two very different pure breeds. While your Aussiedoodle may remind you of your past Aussies, it will remain a very different type of dog and should not be compared to a purebred Aussie or a purebred Poodle. Remember, lower shedding equals more grooming. Your Aussiedoodle will need regular grooming by a professional, whereas an Australian Shepherd would not. I want a more miniature doodle. I don't want a big dog! The Aussiedoodle is a mixed-breed dog. Predicting adult size based solely on your puppy's parents is an uphill battle. Adult size and weight depend on many generations of genetics. Your breeder needs to be knowledgeable about their parent dog's generations back to accurately predict adult size and weight. I want an Aussiedoodle because they are so smart! Aussiedoodles are easy to train if you are an experienced trainer or follow a structured training program such as Baxter and Bella. Aussiedoodles are more intelligent than you can prepare for, which means without training, they will create their own rules and you will NOT like the rules they come up with! After our first litter was such a success, we decided to work towards making the Aussiedoodle a permanent part of our program. Opal the F1 Aussiedoodle with her puppies Here are some things that we LOVE about our Aussiedoodles that are unique to the breed: Aussiedoodles are lower-shedding dogs than their purebred Australian Shepherd counterparts. The level of shedding will vary significantly between puppies and puppies in the same litter. However, we appreciate that Aussiedoodles shed less than Aussies and are typically easier to groom than purebred Poodles. This is a double-edged sword, as discussed earlier in this blog post. If you are not interested in becoming a dog trainer, this is not the breed for you. Aussiedoodles will develop very naughty habits quickly without training. However, if you are hands-on with your dogs and love to train, this breed is for you! Aussiedoodles thrive with constant engagement and stimulation. The sky is the limit regarding what you can teach these dogs. Our Aussiedoodles outsmart and outperform even our purebred Poodle puppies and consistently surpass them in training classes. The aloof and witty Poodle combined with the goofy and wiggly Aussie is magical. These puppies are just fun to sit back and watch. Aussiedoodles are loving and loyal. Like the Australian Shepherd and the Poodle, these dogs love their people and are undyingly loyal to their owners. Aussiedoodle Adoption Checklist Are you ready to become a dog trainer? Proper training requires time and money. Are you ready to invest both into your puppy? Are you ready for the grooming requirements that low to non-shedding dogs come with? Are you ready to spend hours a day training, caring for, and playing with your Aussiedoodle? If your schedule does not allow for that time, are you ready to hire a qualified individual to step in and help? Typing "Aussiedoodle rescue near me" or even "mini Aussiedoodle rescue near me" may heed a few pages of confusing and sporadic search results. There are no rescues to date that specialize in the Aussiedoodle. In other words, no Aussiedodle Rescues offer Aussiedoodle puppies for adoption. There is no Aussiedoodle Rescue organization in Texas. Adopting a rescue Aussiedoodle can be risky and may not be a good decision for a beginner dog owner. Oftentimes a rescue Aussiedoodle has behavioral problems that make the dog difficult to own as a pet. The rescue Aussiedoodle may also have health problems that caused it to be surrendered. Ethical breeders require their customers to contact them before rehoming their Aussiedoodle. If you find a rescue Aussiedoodle chances are it did not come from an ethical breeder. Please do your due diligence in considering the possible implications of adopting a rescue Aussiedoodle. Aussiedoodle is the most common name however some people prefer Aussiepoo. Nevertheless, it is thought to have originated in the United States n the late 20th century when mixing a range of different dogs with Poodles was rising in popularity. Today, the Aussiedoodle is a very popular family dog, working dog or therapy dog as they are so affectionate, intelligent and are so hypoallergenic. The two breeds that make an Aussiedoodle are the Australian Shepherd and the Poodle. It is a designer dog breed as it was intentionally created by mixing these two purebred dogs together to get the desired traits. The original goal of crossing the Australian Shepherd with the Poodle was to create a highly intelligent and loyal dog that had the hypoallergenic and low shedding coat of the Poodle as well as the work ethic of an Australian Shepherd. Aussiedoodle via citysniffers Australian Shepherd Poodle Mix Temperament The temperament of an Australian Shepherd Poodle Mix can vary depending on many factors such as the percentage mix of Poodle to Australian Shepherd, their socialization, environment as well as training. As an overview, Australian Shepherd Poodle Mixes have an intelligent, affectionate, loyal, friendly and energetic temperament. Are Aussiedoodles Intelligent? Aussiedoodles are very intelligent as both the Poodle and Australian Shepherd are known to be very smart. Poodles are ranked 2nd for working and obedience training out of breeds while Australian Shepherds are ranked 42nd. Aussiedoodles are eager to please and quick learners as they are so smart which makes them relatively easy to train. Are Aussiedoodles Hyper Dogs? Aussiedoodles can be quite hyper if they are not given enough exercise each day. They may exhibit behaviors such as chewing, pacing or being vocal if their daily exercise needs are not met. Aussiedoodles may also display signs of being hyperactive as a puppy however their energy levels usually decrease as they mature. Early socialization can also help with hyperactivity. Aussiedoodles often form a particularly close bond with one person even though they are usually very friendly and affectionate with all family members. This is usually the person they spend the most time with or who they consider to be their primary caregiver. Do Aussiedoodles Have Separation Anxiety? Aussiedoodles are prone to separation anxiety like lots of other dog breeds. They may bark, pace, be destructive or attempt to escape if they are left alone for long periods of time. Do Aussiedoodles Like To Jump? Aussiedoodles have a tendency to jump as they are such an energetic and excitable dog breed. An Aussiedoodle can either look more like an Australian Shepherd or more like a Poodle as it is a crossbreed so their appearance can be slightly unpredictable. They usually have a curly or wavy low-shedding coat that is short or medium in length. It can come in many colors such as blue merle, red merle, black, white, chocolate, cream and grey. In terms of stature, they have a well-proportionated, athletic build with a deep chest like an Australian Shepherd. They usually have almond shaped eyes that are blue or brown. These are the wavy coat, curly coat and straight coat. Their coats can range from thick to thin and can have slightly different textures depending on the individual dog. Wavy Coat The wavy coat is one of the most common Aussiedoodle coat types. It features a gentle wave and is low to non-shedding. Wavy coats are quite hypoallergenic however curly coats are generally considered to be the most hypoallergenic. In terms of maintenance, wavy coats are generally easier to groom than curly coats. Curly Coat The curly coat is the next most common Aussiedoodle coat type and is generally seen in backcross generations such as F1b Aussiedoodles, F1bb Aussiedoodles and F2b Aussiedoodles as they have a higher percentage of Poodle genes. These coats require more effort to maintain as they are more susceptible to matting. Straight Coat The straight coat, also called the flat coat, is the least common Aussiedoodle coat type. It is usually seen in reverse backcross generations such as F1b Reverse Aussiedoodles as they have a higher percentage of Australian Shepherd genes. Generally, straight coats are not as hypoallergenic and are light to moderate shedding so are not as suitable for allergy sufferers as curly or wavy coats. Nevertheless, straight coats are quite rare for Aussiedoodles. They would have originally had a solid grey coat but the merle gene diluted it into mottled patches. The merle gene also affects eye color and skin pigmentation on the nose and paws. This means that Merle Aussiedoodles often have very light eye colors such as blue and often have pink patches on their nose and paws. Red Merle Aussiedoodles feature a mottled coat with red, copper, beige and white patches. The gene may result in them having blue eyes and areas of their skin that lacks pigmentation. They are interchangeable names for the same coat coloring. Chocolate Aussiedoodles look very similar to Blue Merle Aussiedoodles except they originally would have had a chocolate liver base coat instead of a black one. The merle gene dilutes sections of their coat into chocolate, copper, beige and white patches. Black Aussiedoodle Black Aussiedoodle via doodleandyrescue Black Aussiedoodles feature a solid black coat with a black nose and dark eyes. They may also feature small white patches on their chest or paws. Breeders achieve the black coat by breeding a Black Poodle with a Black Australian Shepherd that is not merle. Black and White Aussiedoodle Black and White Aussiedoodle via feedfenzl Black and White Aussiedoodles have a black base coat and feature white patches on their chest, paws, legs, tips of their tails and muzzle. They are also called Tuxedo Aussiedoodles as their coat pattern makes it look like they are wearing a suit. Chocolate Aussiedoodle Chocolate Aussiedoodle via kerrymhair Chocolate Aussiedoodles feature a solid brown coat that can range from a very light to a rich brown tone. Their noses and eyes are brown. In most cases they will have a black tri-color or red tri-color coat. Aussiedoodles inherit this coloring from the Australian Shepherd side. Black Tri-color Aussiedoodles feature a black base coat with white and tan markings over their face and body. They look a lot like Bernedoodles. On the other hand, Red Tri-color Aussiedoodles feature a red base coat with white and tan markings over their body and face. These locations include the chin, throat, chest, legs, beneath their tail, above their eyes or on the sides of their muzzle. Phantom Aussiedoodles are different from Parti Aussiedoodles as Parti Aussiedoodles can have patches anywhere on their body. Sable Aussiedoodle Sable Aussiedoodle via aussiedood. The sable undertones are most prominent on an Aussiedoodles muzzle, eye brows and legs. They may also have white patches on their chest and paws. Most of the time the secondary color is black or red. Parti Aussiedoodles are also called bi-color Aussiedoodles as they feature two colors. Aussiedoodle Lifespan The average Aussiedoodle lives for 12 to 15 years. There are many factors that affect the lifespan of an Aussiedoodle including size, gender, generation and whether they are desexed or intact. These variables mean they can have shorter or longer lifespans than the average. Give your Aussiedoodle the best chance of living a long life by exercising them daily, giving them healthy food and keeping on top of vet appointments.

Rottweilers In general, teacup and toy dogs, as well as short-muzzle breeds also known as brachycephalic breeds are more prone to cherry eye. Most affected dogs will have their first cherry eye appear under two years old, although the condition can occur in one or both eyes at any age. The condition is not contagious to people or other animals. Symptoms of cherry eye in dogs The main symptom of cherry eye in dogs is the swollen and protruding third eyelid resembling a cherry pit. In some cases, the eye itself will seem red, itchy, or swollen. Dogs with cherry eye may produce a thick mucus discharge from the eye. Other conditions, such as a foreign body, eye infections, or trauma to the eye, can also cause similar symptoms. Dogs with cherry eye may give themselves corneal scratches if their eye is itchy and they are scratching their face with their paws or objects around the house. Treatment for cherry eye in dogs Cherry eye is usually cured with surgery. However, in more severe cases where the dog has had the condition for a long time or the tear gland is no longer functional, or when the surgical replacement procedure described above has been done previously and has failed, the gland might need to be removed. The chances for full recovery are highest if the procedure is performed as soon as the condition occurs before the gland becomes enlarged or inflamed. If left untreated, cherry eye can cause eye infections and chronic dry eye also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca or KCS. However, the cost to treat cherry eye in dogs will depend on multiple factors, including how severely the eye is affected, the type of procedure, and the doctor performing it. Personal factors can also contribute to the cost of surgery. For instance, larger dogs require more anesthesia, which often results in an increase in price. If the condition has affected both eyes, the price will be higher. Pro Tip: Pet insurance can help cover the costs of medication and surgery for cherry eye. Recovery and prognosis After the surgery, your pet will need to wear a cone, also known as an Elizabethan collar or e-collar, to prevent them from rubbing their eye and disrupting the stitches. Vets usually also prescribe eye drops or medicated eye ointments, as well as oral antibiotics to keep the eye moist, prevent infections, and ensure that the eye heals properly. If the tear gland is surgically removed or if surgical treatment is not an option, your dog will likely need to use eye drops to keep the eye moist and healthy for the rest of their life. When it comes to recovery after surgery, the prognosis is very good. There might be inflammation for a week or two before the eye regains its normal appearance. Allow your dog to rest for a few days after the procedure and avoid swimming or bathing for about two weeks. It should be noted that dogs who are genetically predisposed to cherry eye are more likely to have a relapse. However, it is possible to prevent additional problems associated with this condition such as infections and dry eye by keeping the eye moist with adequate eye drops and treating any eye issues that may appear at the earliest opportunity. Key Takeaways Cherry eye, i. The condition can affect any dog but is especially common in toy and teacup breeds, as well as dogs with short muzzles. The list of breeds prone to cherry eye includes Pugs, Bulldogs, Bulldogs, Rottweilers, etc. Most dogs with cherry eye require surgery in order to put the gland back in place. Be sure to get in touch with your veterinarian as soon as possible if you think your four-legged friend has any eye problems, including cherry eye. 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. Actually, it can be rather worrying for their owners. Photo by Mia Anderson on Unsplash What does cherry eye in puppies look like? Okay, get ready for a visual. It can also look like the corner of the eye is bulging. Cherry eye makes itself quite visible in puppies, although sometimes it will start off small. This is the third eyelid protruding from the tear duct. Dry eyes — these are caused by a lack of tear production A discharge around the eye Excessive blinking Lots of pawing and scratching at the eye due to irritation What causes cherry eye? When this happens the gland causes the third eyelid to protrude and look like a red blob. Breed can be a contributing factor for cherry eye in puppies Some types of dogs such as Bulldogs and Spaniels seem to suffer more with cherry eye due to their skull, eye socket shape or ligaments in the eye, which may be weaker. Puppies are more susceptible to cherry eye than adult dogs Many cases of cherry eye occur in puppies under a year of age, poor little things. This is when the ligaments on the third eyelid are weakest, so the nicatins gland is able to push it out. Cherry eye in puppies can be caused by scratching or pawing If your puppy rubs or paws at their eyes, this can damage the nicatins gland and cause swelling that ends up in cherry eye. Photo by charlesdeluvio on Unsplash How can I help puppy swollen eyes? This will let you see whether the swelling is getting better or worse, and will give you a sign of what to do next. Check their eye in case there is anything stuck in it. Sometimes foreign things like grass seeds can cause a swollen eye, but you can carefully remove this at home. Is your puppy tired and has a bloodshot eye? Yep, not the same as cherry eye. Puppies need to sleep a lot! Let your puppy get some rest and take things easy. Remove any collars or harnesses that your puppy wears indoors so that they can relax. Nothing more annoying than a clinking collar every time you move. Avoid wrestling-type physical games or playing with other dogs until the swelling has gone down. You can use a saline wash to clean the swollen eye, but make sure to use plenty of treats so that your puppy feels as comfortable as possible. A puppy swollen eye can be caused by an allergic reaction. Using an appropriate dose of antihistamine is suggested for this. Photo by Kindred Hues Photography on Unsplash Your vet will be the best person to tell you whether a home treatment, like the ones we suggested above, are suitable or not. They may also discuss surgery with you to prevent the cherry eye from recurring or want to refer you to a dog ophthalmologist. If your puppy is experiencing any other problems like cloudy eyes, watery eyes, scratching or itching at their ears then we hope our guides help you learn a bit more about them. It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now. Mastiffs Terriers In general, breeds with shorter muzzles many of whom have brachycephalic syndrome as well as toy breeds and teacup dogs tend to be more likely to experience cherry eye than their longer-nosed, full-sized counterparts. And young dogs—puppies under a year old—are most susceptible as well. Early cherry eye in dogs is fairly easy to spot, Vygantas says. This bulge is typically in the corner nearest the nose and similar in shape and color to a cherry pit, hence the nickname. The condition can occur in one or both eyes. The good news is early-stage cherry eye in dogs isn't painful. In fact, your pup probably won't even know something is wrong. But over time, it can make your dog prone to dry eye and infections , so it shouldn't be ignored. The tear gland in that third eyelid is responsible for about 33 to 66 percent of your dog's overall tear production. When prolapse occurs, the tear duct doesn't function normally. For healthy eyes and overall comfort, it's critical that this gland is preserved and reattached to its proper place. If you suspect your dog has cherry eye, it's important to see your vet as soon as possible. While not a medical emergency, the condition can cause health concerns over time. Left untreated, cherry eye can result in damage to the tear duct and cause chronic dry eye. The gland may also become more swollen over time and restrict blood flow. As swelling makes your dog more uncomfortable, he'll be tempted to scratch or paw at the eye, increasing the likelihood of damage and infection. At your initial vet visit, your veterinarian might prescribe dog-safe eye drops for cherry eye to reduce inflammation. These drops can also provide much-needed moisture for comfort and eye health. But eye drops are not a cure for cherry eye. Usually, the vet-recommended treatment for cherry eye in dogs is surgery to preserve the eyelid. Your vet should be able to preserve and correctly reposition the tear gland with a simple procedure. While it might be tempting to try and avoid surgery, when it comes to cherry eye, ointment and topical treatments won't address the root problem and your pup will likely need surgery later anyway. According to Vygantas, once the gland is out of position, it's unlikely to resolve itself without surgery. Still, even minor surgery can be stress-inducing as a pet owner. But rest assured: cherry eye surgery recovery is typically short and sweet. In fact, most pups are back to normal within a couple of weeks. In the meantime, your pup will have a follow-up appointment or two with her vet to check the surgical site. She'll also need to wear an e-collar aka the cone of shame during recovery to keep her eye safe from scratching, pawing, and infection. Cherry eye is not life-threatening, and the vast majority of dogs go on to live full lives with healthy eyes. If you're wondering if you should get a dog who has cherry eye—either from a rescue or a breeder—there are a few considerations to keep in mind. First, it's important to remember cherry eye is not contagious, so it poses no risk to you or other pets. However, surgical treatment of cherry eye can be expensive. Costs range from several hundred to thousands of dollars depending on the breed, your location, and your veterinarian's rates for surgical procedures. And, since as many as 45 percent of dogs that experience cherry eye in one eye will eventually have it in the other, you could very well end up doubling your expenses. The good news is, the simple cherry eye surgery should solve the problem for good. The most common complication of this surgery is the breakdown of the suture line and subsequent re-prolapse of the gland," Vygantas explains. If the suture does fail, another surgery is likely necessary. Still, Vygantas stresses that the condition is not an indicator of poor health or of other underlying conditions. If your pup has cherry eye, there's no reason she can't enjoy a long, happy, healthy life post-treatment. Is it Possible to Prevent Cherry Eye? Unfortunately, there's no way to keep your dog from developing cherry eye. But there are ways to give your pup the best chance at good health. Feed her a good diet and provide lots of exercise to maintain a healthy weight. Schedule an appointment with your vet to make sure she stays up-to-date on all preventative care and vaccinations , and reach out to your vet if you have any concerns about your pup's eye health. Was this page helpful?

If you are looking for the best quality French Bulldog Puppy Breeders In Massachusetts state , then you are in the right place! I have listed them down based on their Frenchie pedigree, breeding philosophy, breeding history, a customer review. You will get to know better about them as you read through the following descriptions. I made this list of Frenchie breeders based on the information I found on google. I have done some research to find out the best breeder possible just for you. And still researching to find out more about other quality breeders. Finally I made a list of the top 8 reputable French Bulldog breeders in Massachusetts who offer you the best quality puppy possible. All of the breeders have their own breeding style, philosophy and story. Hope the following Frenchie breeder list will make it easier for you to choose a good breeder. They take pride in providing you with a healthy, happy puppy that will be with you for many coming years. Stacked Bulldogs started French Bulldog breeding program with a mindset to the preservation of this breed. They are specialized in producing standard and rare colored French Bulldogs. Stacked Bulldogs 1st priority is to raise healthy, well socialized Frenchie babies with cheerful temperament for you that is friendly and outgoing. Stacked Bulldogs only use quality studs and females to give you a better quality puppy. They only have limited planned breeding and only have one to two litters a year. So be fast to order your desired puppy. Your puppy comes with- One year health guarantee. Socialization training. Puppy pedigree, puppy care guide. Puppy starter kit. Breeder support for life. If you are interested in having a puppy from them be sure to contact them fast to know more about their puppies. You can also give a visit to their website to see the puppy pictures. All dogs are spayed or neutered. Read each bio very carefully, as not every rescue Frenchie is suited to every home. Our adoption fees offset only a portion of the veterinary expenses for the dogs in FBRN. As these costs rise we have had to increase the adoption fees as one measure to try to keep up with expenses. Our Available Dogs page is updated weekly, so check back often! We are currently reviewing the applications that the dog has already received. Please do not attempt to apply for a dog with a Pending Adoption banner. Your application will not be processed without the fee. If you experience any problems completing the application or you do not receive an auto confirmation for your application, please contact FBRN at [email protected] Thank you. Fees have recently risen. You may see some dogs of the same age have different fees. We elected not to raise the fees on dogs that were posted before the increase. Our fees can be found on the Adoption Info page. Any communication will come through email. Please never share any personal information with anyone who indicates they are a volunteer unless it is coming through the correct channels. If you have received a FB messenger message, please send it to [email protected] so we are aware. In the meantime, check out our Foster Page to see if we might be a good match! Read more about the pups that are currently up for adoption. Read More… Foster Dogs FBRN is being faced with an increasing number of dogs who are ill, handicapped, or need expensive veterinary care before being placed. Meet our Foster Frenchies and please consider sponsoring one of them to ensure that they receive the care that they need. Read More… Surrender a Dog Life has thrown you a curve ball and you must surrender your French Bulldog… we are here to help! Read More… Volunteer We welcome you to join us in our efforts to rehabilitate and rehome needy French Bulldogs. We have many options for you to choose from, depending on your circumstances, time and resources. Our organization is composed solely of volunteers who nurture and foster these dogs as well as provide education and training. Our goal is to place healthy and happy French Bulldogs into forever homes. Read More… Contact Us Learn about the many ways that you can get in touch with us. He has a Staffie sister, Lettie, who he adores and who has taught him so much with her gentle patience. He has doggie friends at daycamp he sees once a week. He is the best snuggler ever! He used to be a resource guarder, but will now bring you his toys for a treat! He loves our daily walks and meeting people. Thank you FBRN for picking us to be his family- we love him so much! Despite being mostly blind and deaf, Ham is thriving in his golden years, especially with his folks now working from home. Thank you FBRN for our goodest good boy! We are so grateful for every day with him. She had cherry eye surgery in March right before Covid quarantine and the surgery was a success. A gigantic thank you to FBRN for allowing me to adopt this perfect little nugget. All Rights Reserved. A c 3 Non-Profit Organization. Tax ID: .Powered by Geeks4Rent. Due to the nature of animal control, we do not have any medical or vaccination history of dogs entering our building which puts unvaccinated dogs at risk. We are hoping to get as many dogs into loving homes as soon as possible. Because we have an infectious disease in our building, we have not been able to follow all of our normal assessment protocols. We have not spent any time with some dog outside of the kennel. We have not been able to introduce some to other dogs. While some dogs have had behavioral assessments prior to the Parvovirus entering our building, others have not. All dogs have presented friendly in the kennel. Because ALL dogs have been in a building with an infectious disease, potential adopters MUST meet strict criteria take a dog home during these challenging times. If you do not meet these criteria listed on our website under each dog, we will be happy to help you find a companion once we are through these strict precautions. You must live in a single family home. If thickly settled, a fenced in yard is a requirement. If you have a dog at home, your dog s must be fully vaccinated for Parvovirus. Adult ONLY homes. Unless specified by staff. We ask that the dog stays away from any dogs that do not live with you. Jack is an uncertain dog in need of a very special, adult only home. Chicken Little dogs are naturally timid or shy, and may not have learned to trust people while they were young. These dogs need to feel safe before they will interact with people. If you adopt one of these dogs, the work to build a relationship of trust could be a long and hard one but the experience can be one of the most rewarding of dog ownership. Chicken Little Characteristics: Fearful of new people and placesTake time to trustShut down here at the shelterWill bite if people push or try to interact to quicklyOnce they trust a person, the often become very bondedSeptember 14, , pm.

Almost all dog breeds shed, and anyone who has owned a German shepherd knows they are not an exception. There are some breeds that shed much less than others. In fact, there are some types of dogs that only shed seasonally, while others shed year round. German shepherds fit into the latter category, so they are known to shed quite a lot. While your dog will never completely stop shedding there are things you can do to reduce it. Today we will discuss how to reduce shedding in German shepherds. Why do German Shepherds Shed? The simple fact is, this breed sheds heavily. While a certain amount of shedding is natural, there are other factors such as stress, poor diet, skin allergies, and dehydration that can make it even worse. There are several reasons this breed sheds so heavily, and those reasons are: Shedding Year-Round: While some breeds only shed seasonally, others do so all year. As their old hairs fall out, new ones grow in their place. This breed has a large amount of fur, so shedding regularly ensures the dog keeps the same amount of hair constantly. The purpose of a double coat is to protect the dog from injury, disease, and infection. This is the reason a German shepherd should never be shaved. Seasonal: Some of you may be wondering, "When do German shepherds start shedding"? While this type of dog always sheds, it is stronger during summer and fall. The fall shedding helps prepare the dog for the cold winter months by shedding the outer coat, while summer shedding gets rid of the under coat to help cool the dog in hot summer months. This process is called coat blowing and can last several weeks each time. Underlying Health Issues: There are German shepherd health issues that can unnecessarily increase their shedding. Such concerns include stress, dehydration, poor diet, and so on. If your dog seems to shed more than usual you can try administering a dog supplement for a healthy coat. Source: iStock While you may think shedding is not necessary, there are three main reasons a dog sheds. Those reasons are: It assists with sensory perception Helps protect the skin from injury and disease Regulates body temperature What are the Best Ways to Minimize Shedding? For those wanting German Shepherds that don't shed, you'll need to redirect your sights to another breed or a mixed breed if you don't think you can handle the shedding! If you want to know how to stop German shepherd shedding, you once again may want to consider a different breed, however, there are certain things you can do to decrease shedding. Such dog foods usually contain large amounts of grain and corn, which are not digested well by canines. If you suspect your dog food is cheap and not well-balanced, try a new brand but be sure to buy one that has real meat as the first ingredient. Another wonderful choice is beginning your dog on a raw food diet. Healthy diets not only reduce shedding, but also help with dry skin and improves the immune system. Changing your dogs diet too quickly can lead to stomach upset and other issues. Some great choices are flaxseed, fish, or olive oil. All of these oils are great for improving coat texture and healing inflamed skin. Another option is supplements, as usually the best dog supplements for dry skin contain one of these oils. The oils work well because they contain omega-3 fatty acids. Dry skin will lead to an increased amount of shedding and can eventually lead to sickness. Feed Certain Types of Human Food Though dogs have different nutritional needs than humans, there are still some foods that are great for them. Your GSD should be regularly brushed to remove extra fur and bathed regularly to wash away loose hair. Just keep in mind that your dog only needs about 3 to 4 baths per year with a moisturizing dog shampoo. De-Shed your German Shepherd To further reduce shedding you can use various de-shedding tools. July Update: We've included a few more practical things you can do to assist your German Shepherd in shedding less: Blow dry your dog: After bathing your German Shepherd, use a blow dryer to remove the last of its loose fur. Even between baths, blowing them off with a dryer on a cool setting can help remove loose fur after brushing, keeping their shedding under control. Visit a professional groomer: If you don't have the time to groom your dog yourself, an occasional trip to a professional groomer can be a lifesaver. They have all the tools to do the job and can usually perform hygiene trims and clip nails. Add Omega fatty acids to diet: Omega oils can promote healthy skin and coat, reduce excess shedding, and help relieve allergy-related itching. Use an undercoat rake: An undercoat rake can easily remove the dense undercoat to keep it from matting. This will help keep your house cleaner and your dog happier. Use a magic coat curry brush during bathing: This grooming tool can help make bath time faster by quickly removing loose fur. It can also help keep skin healthy by conditioning it with oils and preventing excess shedding. Use a slicker brush: A slicker brush can help remove the loose top fur. Brushing regularly will also help distribute the natural oils on their skin and coat and remove dead skin flakes and hair. Use an anti-shed shampoo: A gentle anti-shed shampoo can help keep skin healthy by conditioning it with oils and preventing excess shedding. Specific shampoos are available designed to reduce shedding by nourishing the skin and strengthening hair follicles. Use a high-velocity dryer: After bathing your dog, use a high-velocity dryer to remove loose fur. This can be particularly effective during your dog's shedding season. Maintain a regular exercise schedule: Regular exercise can help manage your dog's stress levels, reducing excessive shedding. Use a furminator: A Furminator is a specific brush designed to reach down into the undercoat and remove loose hairs before they can be shed. Consider a hypoallergenic diet: If your German Shepherd's excessive shedding is due to allergies, a hypoallergenic diet might help reduce shedding. Use a rubber grooming mitt: A rubber grooming mitt can gently and effectively remove loose fur, especially when your dog is shedding heavily. Keep your home cool: German Shepherds shed more when hot, so keeping your home cool can help reduce shedding. Try a leave-in conditioner: A leave-in conditioner can help keep your dog's coat healthy and reduce shedding. Look for one that's specifically designed to reduce shedding. Use a diet rich in protein: A diet rich in high-quality protein can help keep your dog's coat healthy and reduce shedding. Avoid stressful situations: Stress can cause dogs to shed more than usual. Avoid exposing your German Shepherd to stressful situations to help manage their shedding. Regular health check-ups: Regular health check-ups can help identify any underlying health issues causing excessive shedding. Consult a vet: If your dog suddenly starts shedding more than usual or has changes in their skin, and they are not blowing their coat, you should get them checked out by a vet. Many health problems can contribute to shedding. How much do German shepherds shed? A lot! But even then, there is such a thing as shedding too much! While entire patches of missing fur is obvious, there are some other signs that may not be as plain to see. Conclusion In conclusion, German shepherds are loyal dogs that make wonderful pets for the entire family. While they are heavy shedders, if you follow the steps above you will notice a significant decrease. You may also want to invest in the best dog supplement for dry skin, since this is one of the main causes of extra shedding. There are many dog itching treatments available on the market, so make sure you read the ingredients and choose wisely. Also read these important recourses for your dog:. The German Shepherd is known for its supreme intelligence, family friendly demeanor and extreme loyalty. But their physical attributes stand out as well. But sometimes GSDs will develop bald spots or lose their hair. And often times the cause may not be immediately evident. It is good to know what may cause the balding so that you can get a jump on the diagnosis and treatment. There are plenty of different reasons for bald spots on your German Shepherd. Usually there is an underlying cause that may not be super evident. Allergies: Allergies are frequently the cause of balding or hair loss on a German Shepherd. They can be triggered by a number of different elements in the environment. They cause a reaction on the skin or atopic dermatitis. Some of the most common environmental allergies are dust, mold, or pollen. Food allergies are a little less common. The immune response can be facial swelling, hives, itchiness and or diarrhea and vomiting. These include beef, chicken, corn, eggs, milk, soy or wheat. Fleas are the most common allergy affecting German Shepherds and most other dog breeds. It only takes one flea to cause an allergic reaction. When the flea bites the dog, the release a small amount of saliva into the wound. The proteins in the saliva cause an allergic reaction. This will cause the area to itch in dogs that are sensitive. This is why it is so important to use flea prevention. It is caused when the hormone cortisol is overproduced due to a tumor being present in the pituitary gland. Typically, they will lose hair around the abdomen close to the rear legs, neck or perineum. One of the first and most obvious signs of this disease is frequent thirst and urination to the point that they want to go out during the night to relieve themselves. Normally this disease affects dogs later in life once they have reached the 6-year mark. If you think your GSD may have this condition, take them to the vet immediately. They will perform blood and urine test to diagnose this adrenal issue. Hot Spots: Hot spots, or acute moist dermatitis, is a fairly common skin condition that affects German Shepherds along with lots of other breeds. They start with an itch from an allergic reaction, bug bite, wound etc and intensify because the dog proceeds to chew and lick the infected area making it worse over time. This can lead to bald spots or hair loss in that area. There is a device called the Lick Sleeve that protects the area from over licking. Dog breeds like the GSD and Golden Retriever tend to be more susceptible because of their thick coats. The hot spot will be fairly large in size and look inflamed, raw and sore. It will usually be wet from licking and possible ooze blood or a yellow pus. If not treated, the hot spot can become infected and start to smell bad. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications are usually used to combat the itching and treat the secondary infection caused by the bacteria in the skin. Mange: Another cause of bald spots or hair loss in dogs is mange. This skin disease is common in stray dogs that have been abandoned or neglected by their owners. There are two types of mange in dogs. Demodectic Mange: Demodex or red mange is the most common form of the skin disease even though it is fairly rare in dogs. It is caused by mites that are found on all dogs and subsequently humans as well. It is not contagious. But sometimes in puppies, a breakout will occur. The first sign is usually a bald spot the size of a quarter up to a half dollar. It typically surfaces around the face and head area. It usually responds well to treatment such as amitraz or sulfurated lime which eliminates the mites and treats the skin infection. In extremely rare cases, a German Shepherd can get generalized demodectic mange. It is hereditary and much more dangerous. This type of mange is life threatening because the dog develops large bald spots all over the body which get infected. Sarcoptic Mange: Sarcoptic mange on the other hand is contagious. This skin infection is caused by the parasitic mite called Sarcoptes scabei. Most of the time, a German Shepherd will catch the infection after coming into direct contact with someone that is infected. Signs of this type of mange include extreme itching, bald spots, and red scaly skin. It normally targets areas such as the abdomen, ear flaps and elbows. Diagnosis is straight forward and normally skin scrapings can find the little culprits. Several different types of treatments are available depending on the breed. Pressure Sores Pressure sores can lead to balding or hair loss in older or disabled dogs. Similar to bed sores in humans, GSDs can form these sores from lying in the same position for long periods of time. This is especially the case when the dog has lost the sensation in their front and back legs. They can also form due to weakness when the sit down. Instead of slowly sitting down, they plop down to fast causing an injury to an elbow or hip. Originally pressure sores are topical wounds only affecting the upper layers of their skin. But when there is repeated pressure placed on the damaged area, the blood vessels get constricted and decubital ulcers form. This makes it hard for the skin to get its oxygen. Ultimately the skin will die if left untreated. Look for these symptoms: areas on the bony parts of your GSD that are filled with fluid, constant licking of the sores, discoloration of the skin, patches of hair loss or red skin, stained hair near the wound, ulcers or wounds that are purple, red or leaking puss. Take your dog to the vet immediately if you notice any of these symptoms. Pressure sores can be very hard to treat once they are formed. The best way to avoid them is prevention. Ringworm: Ringworm is another frequent cause of bald spots on German Shepherds. Normally the hair loss will appear in circular shaped areas all over the dog. Although not life threatening, it is very contagious and spreads when a dog comes into contact with animals or people that are already infected. It can also be spread through common household objects such as a bed, carpet, chair, couch or food bowls. It is transferred through broken or shed hairs. Once the fungal spores are left on an object, they can remain transferable for up to a year and a half. This is because the hair follicles are extremely fragile and break off easily. This causes it to spread easier. Skin Rash: A skin rash, or hives can stem from several different causes. Usually, they will appear in localized patches. The skin will be itchy, red and swollen. This can lead to possible balding or hair loss because a dog will be itching and scratching the affected area. Some of the causes can include: allergies, environment, genetics, intestinal worms, medication, stress or vaccinations. Here is a full list of causes to help you determine the culprit if you think your dog may have a rash developing. Rashes will appear quickly after being exposed to a certain trigger and can make your GSD very uncomfortable. If left untreated, a simple rash can turn into a skin infection. If you find any bald spots or hair loss on your GSD, the best thing to do is to take them to your local veterinarian. A vet can examine your dog to determine any underlying cause. Several different tests can be used depending on the signs and symptoms you describe. They will look at the specific pattern of hair loss along with the condition of the skin surrounding the bald area. They may also take into account the amount of itching and scratching. Some of the tests may include: Allergy tests: They can narrow down the specific type of allergen affecting your dog using blood or skin testing. They may also use elimination of certain potential allergens to find the cause. Impression smears: A microscopic slide is pressed against the affected area to look for certain problems close-up. They look for bacteria, inflamed cells or yeast. It will produce hair follicles which can be examined on a slide to check for mites which can cause mange. In Closing: Hopefully this article gave you a better idea of why your German Shepherd may have bald spots or a loss of hair. Keep in mind that these are the main causes. There could be other explanations. Be aware of any other symptoms and contact your local vet for assistance. Please leave a comment below and let us know what you think! Do you have any personal experience with balding on your GSD? Let us know! We would love to hear your story! Share this:. Supplements Balanced Diet A balanced diet fuels your German Shepherd's overall health, including its coat. Essential nutrients like proteins, fatty acids, and vitamins contribute to a strong, healthy coat, reducing excessive shedding. Going deeper, proteins serve as the building blocks of hair, while Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids contribute to a lustrous coat and healthy skin. Vitamins and minerals, like vitamin E and zinc, promote skin health, supporting hair growth. High-quality dog foods are formulated to provide these essential nutrients. If you suspect dietary deficiencies, it's advisable to consult a vet who can recommend suitable foods or supplements to enhance your German Shepherd's coat health. Regular Grooming Regular grooming removes dead hair and stimulates the skin in German Shepherds, promoting healthier coat growth and minimizing excessive shedding. Grooming with a brush suited to your German Shepherd's double coat can help maintain its condition. Brushing removes loose hair, reduces the amount shed onto your floors, and stimulates blood flow to the skin, encouraging healthier hair growth. In addition to regular at-home grooming, periodic professional grooming sessions can further benefit your German Shepherd's coat health. Parasite Prevention Preventing parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites is crucial for German Shepherds, as infestations can lead to skin irritation and hair loss. Expanding on this, parasites cause itching and discomfort, resulting in your dog scratching or biting at its skin, leading to hair loss. Moreover, certain parasites can cause conditions like mange or Flea Allergy Dermatitis, causing significant hair loss. Regular use of preventative treatments can help avoid these issues. Your vet can recommend appropriate products based on your dog's lifestyle and local parasite risks. Effective parasite control also includes regularly washing your dog's bedding and maintaining a clean environment. Hydration Keeping your German Shepherd well-hydrated is vital for skin and coat health. Water supports numerous body functions, including nutrient transport, which can help maintain a healthy coat and minimize shedding. To elaborate, water is essential for the optimal functioning of all body systems, including the skin and hair follicles. It helps maintain skin elasticity and aids in the transportation of nutrients needed for healthy hair growth. Dehydrated dogs can have dry, flaky skin, which is not an optimal environment for hair health, leading to increased shedding. Therefore, ensuring your German Shepherd has constant access to fresh, clean water is a straightforward yet crucial step in managing hair loss. Veterinary Check-ups Regular veterinary check-ups can catch health issues early, including those causing hair loss, allowing prompt treatment and better outcomes for your German Shepherd. Further explaining, a routine vet visit often includes a thorough physical examination, which can identify skin and coat abnormalities indicating potential problems. Regular bloodwork can also spot systemic issues that might manifest as hair loss. For instance, hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, or autoimmune conditions could be detected. Early detection allows prompt treatment, halting hair loss and potentially reversing it. Thus, maintaining a schedule of regular vet visits is crucial for your German Shepherd's overall health and coat condition. Manage Allergies Managing allergies in German Shepherds can prevent flare-ups, which often result in skin inflammation and hair loss. Allergy control often involves dietary adjustments, medication, and environmental changes. Going more in-depth, allergies can make your dog's skin itchy and inflamed, and the resultant scratching can lead to hair loss. Food allergies might require a diet change, environmental allergies could necessitate measures to reduce exposure to allergens, and seasonal allergies might call for antihistamines or other medications. Working closely with your vet to identify allergens and develop an effective management plan is important. Proper management can significantly reduce allergy-related hair loss, helping maintain your German Shepherd's healthy coat. Proper Bathing Routine A proper bathing routine using gentle, dog-appropriate shampoo can maintain skin health, minimizing hair loss in your German Shepherd. To delve deeper, bathing your German Shepherd helps to cleanse its skin and remove loose hair. However, overbathing can strip natural oils from the coat, leading to dry, itchy skin and potentially increased shedding. Using a dog-appropriate shampoo is crucial, as human shampoos can be too harsh for a dog's skin. Consider oatmeal or aloe vera shampoos, which can soothe the skin and maintain its natural moisture balance. Remember, bathing aims to support skin and coat health, not eliminate shedding entirely. Your vet can advise on a suitable bathing routine for your dog. Stress Management Stress management is important as stress or anxiety can cause hair loss in German Shepherds. Keeping a stable environment and providing plenty of exercises help maintain your dog's mental well-being. Delving deeper, the stress in dogs can manifest in various physical ways, including excessive shedding or hair loss. Factors that can stress a dog include changes in routine, new family members, moving, or lack of exercise and stimulation. Maintaining a stable routine, providing mental and physical exercise , using positive reinforcement training techniques, and using calming products can all help manage your dog's stress levels. If your German Shepherd seems overly anxious or stressed, it's worth discussing with your vet or a professional dog behaviorist to identify potential solutions. Skin Care Proper skin care can prevent conditions that lead to hair loss in German Shepherds. This includes regular checks for abnormalities, proper bathing, and parasite control. Elaborating further, the skin is the largest organ in the body and plays a critical role in maintaining your dog's health. Ensuring your dog's skin is healthy helps keep their coat lush and reduces shedding. Regularly check your dog's skin for signs of redness, swelling, or patches of hair loss. Proper bathing and grooming will help keep the skin clean and the coat free of loose hairs. By preventing parasitic infections, you'll also reduce the risk of skin irritations that can cause excessive shedding. Consult a vet if you notice any changes in your German Shepherd's skin health. Supplements Supplements like Omega-3 can boost your German Shepherd's coat health, reducing excessive shedding. Always consult a vet before introducing supplements to your dog's diet. In more detail, supplements such as Omega-3 fatty acids can support your dog's skin and coat health, leading to less shedding. These fatty acids nourish the skin, promote a glossy coat, and can reduce inflammation that leads to hair loss. Biotin, a type of B vitamin, can also support healthy hair growth. However, before starting any supplement regimen, it's crucial to consult with your vet. Omega-3 fatty acids promote a shiny, healthy coat in dogs by nourishing hair follicles. They can guide you on the most beneficial and safe supplements for your German Shepherd and help determine the appropriate dosage. Does German Shepherd hair grow back? Yes, a German Shepherd's hair can grow back after shedding or hair loss, assuming the cause of the loss has been addressed. Factors such as diet, health, and grooming affect hair regrowth rate. To elaborate, hair growth in dogs, including German Shepherds, goes through cycles, just like in humans. This means that hair will naturally grow back after shedding or even after certain types of hair loss. However, the speed and quality of hair regrowth can depend on several factors. If your dog has a balanced diet, good health, and proper grooming, their hair will likely grow back healthy and strong. If hair loss is due to a health issue like a skin infection, hormonal imbalance, or allergies, treating the underlying issue should allow the hair to regrow. However, if you notice areas where the hair does not seem to grow back, it's important to consult a veterinarian. How long does it take for a German Shepherd's hair to grow back? German Shepherd hair growth varies based on several factors, including the dog's health and the cause of hair loss. Generally, a healthy coat can take anywhere from 2 to 4 months to regrow. Going into more depth, the timeline for a German Shepherd's hair to grow back is influenced by numerous factors. For instance, hair loss due to natural shedding or minor skin irritations may regrow within a few weeks to months. If the hair loss is due to a more serious health issue , it may take longer and require the underlying condition to be treated. The diet also plays a role, as proper nutrition is vital for healthy hair growth. In all cases, it's important to have patience. Hair growth takes time and isn't always immediately noticeable. A veterinarian should be consulted if there's a concern about hair regrowth or continued hair loss. What food causes hair loss in dogs? Certain foods such as beef, dairy, wheat, or chicken can cause hair loss in dogs if they're allergic to them. A diet lacking essential nutrients like protein, fatty acids, and vitamins can also lead to hair loss. Food allergies in dogs often manifest as skin conditions, including itching, inflammation, and hair loss. Common allergens include beef, dairy, wheat, chicken, and certain grains. However, every dog is unique, and what causes an allergic reaction in one may not be in another. On the other hand, a diet deficient in essential nutrients can also lead to hair loss. Suggestion: Worst dog food for German Shepherd Protein is vital for hair growth, and fatty acids contribute to skin health. Vitamins and minerals like zinc and biotin also support hair health. If you suspect your dog's food is causing hair loss, consult a vet or a canine nutritionist for advice on dietary adjustments. Why is my German Shepherd getting bald spots? German Shepherds can develop bald spots for various reasons, including allergies, parasitic infections, hormonal imbalances, and dermatitis. Determining the exact cause requires a vet's examination. Expanding on this, bald spots on your German Shepherd could indicate a more serious condition than regular shedding. Allergies can cause your dog to scratch or bite at their skin, leading to hair loss. Parasites like fleas or mites can also lead to bald patches. Conditions like hypothyroidism result in hormonal imbalances that can cause hair loss. Dermatitis, which is skin inflammation, can also lead to bald spots. Each of these conditions requires different treatments, so it's important to consult a vet if you notice bald patches on your German Shepherd. They can provide a diagnosis and suggest the appropriate treatment plan. German Shepherd hair falling out clumps If your German Shepherd's hair falls out in clumps, it may indicate a health issue, such as dermatitis, parasites, allergies, or fungal infection. A vet's examination is crucial to determine the cause. Going into more detail, while German Shepherds naturally shed hair, losing it in clumps is not typical and is usually a sign of a health problem. Dermatitis or skin infections can cause patchy hair loss, while parasites like fleas or mites can lead to hair coming out in clumps. Allergies, either to food or environmental triggers, can also cause excessive hair loss. Fungal infections, like ringworm, often result in circular patches of hair loss. It's crucial to consult a vet if your German Shepherd's hair is falling out in clumps to diagnose the underlying issue and begin appropriate treatment. German Shepherd hair loss and itching Hair loss and itching in German Shepherds can be symptoms of several conditions, such as allergies, parasites, skin infections, or dermatitis. It's important to consult a vet for an accurate diagnosis. Itching, or pruritus, in conjunction with hair loss, is often a symptom of skin irritation. Allergies are a common culprit, triggered by food, environmental factors, or substances they come in contact with. Parasites like fleas or mites can cause intense itching and subsequent hair loss. Bacterial or fungal skin infections, as well as dermatitis, can also cause these symptoms. It's important to note that incessant scratching can lead to secondary infections, exacerbating the problem. Therefore, prompt veterinary attention is essential to identify the cause and start suitable treatment. German Shepherd hair growth medicine Medicine to promote hair growth in German Shepherds is often used to treat underlying causes of hair loss, like hormonal imbalances or skin infections. Always consult a vet before starting any treatment. When promoting hair growth, addressing the root cause of hair loss is key. Certain medications can help if your German Shepherd's hair loss is due to health conditions like hypothyroidism, which can be managed with hormone supplements. In bacterial or fungal skin infections, topical or oral medications can treat the infection and promote hair regrowth. Special shampoos and topical treatments are also designed to soothe the skin and encourage hair growth. However, it's important to remember that each dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another, so always consult a vet before starting any new treatment. Here are some of the most popular and most effective medicines against hair loss in dogs: Medicine name How it works Levothyroxine This synthetic thyroid hormone treats hypothyroidism, a common cause of hair loss. By restoring hormonal balance, hair growth is promoted. Ketoconazole An antifungal medication used to treat fungal skin infections. Clearing the infection can allow for hair to regrow. Omega-3 Supplements These support skin health and can help manage allergies, reducing inflammation and promoting hair regrowth. Aloe Vera-Based Topical Treatments They soothe skin irritation and inflammation, encouraging healthier hair growth. Medicated Shampoos These can treat a variety of skin conditions, reducing itching and promoting hair growth. Home remedies against dog hair loss: Home remedy How it works Omega-3 Rich Foods Adding foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like fish oil or flaxseeds, can improve skin health, reduce inflammation and promote hair regrowth. Coconut Oil Applied topically, coconut oil can soothe skin irritation and inflammation, moisturizing the skin and encouraging healthier hair growth. Regular Brushing Brushing stimulates the skin and hair follicles, promotes healthy oil distribution, and can encourage hair growth. Apple Cider Vinegar Diluted apple cider vinegar can soothe itchy skin and improve skin health, promoting hair regrowth. Aloe Vera Natural aloe vera can be applied to the skin to soothe irritation and inflammation, encouraging hair growth. Balanced Homemade Diet A diet full of necessary nutrients including protein, vitamins, and minerals supports overall health, including hair growth. Why is my German Shepherd losing hair on the back legs? Hair loss on a German Shepherd's back legs could indicate allergies, parasites, dermatitis, or hormonal imbalances. Getting a vet's examination is crucial to pinpoint the exact cause and treatment. Expanding on this, it's not uncommon for dogs to lose hair on specific body parts. If your German Shepherd is losing hair on its back legs, it could be due to various reasons. Allergies often lead to itching and scratching, which may result in hair loss in the affected areas. Parasites such as fleas or mites usually infest areas where the fur is thinner, like the back legs, leading to hair loss. Dermatitis, caused by irritants or infections, can also cause hair loss in specific areas. Lastly, hormonal imbalances from conditions like hypothyroidism or Cushing's disease can result in uneven hair loss. A thorough veterinary examination is essential to diagnose the cause accurately and begin the appropriate treatment plan. Why is my German Shepherd losing hair on his tail? Hair loss on your German Shepherd's tail can indicate various issues, from flea infestations to dermatitis or allergies. It's crucial to seek a veterinary diagnosis to understand the cause. Going into more detail, hair loss on the tail might be due to flea infestations, as the tail base is a favorite spot for these parasites. Flea allergy dermatitis, resulting from an allergic reaction to flea saliva, can also cause hair loss. Other possibilities include localized dermatitis caused by irritants, infections, or allergies leading to excessive licking and chewing of the tail, which can cause hair loss. Tail hair loss could also signify a hormonal imbalance or an underlying systemic disease. A thorough check-up with a vet is the best course of action to identify the cause and start the appropriate treatment. Why is my German Shepherd losing hair on his ears? Hair loss in a German Shepherd's ears may be due to parasites, allergies, or infections. An accurate diagnosis from a veterinarian is vital for appropriate treatment and prevention. Diving deeper, parasites like mites or fleas can cause hair loss in the ears. Ear mites, in particular, are common culprits. Allergies can also cause your German Shepherd to scratch or rub his ears excessively, leading to hair loss. Fungal or bacterial infections are another common cause of hair loss in the ears. These infections can cause itching, inflammation, and hair loss. Moreover, hormonal disorders such as hypothyroidism can lead to hair loss on various body parts, including the ears. As always, consult your vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. The best German Shepherd grooming tools Good grooming tools are vital for German Shepherds due to their double coat , which requires regular maintenance. Proper tools prevent matting, reduce excessive shedding, distribute natural oils, and allow for early detection of skin issues, ensuring the dog's coat remains healthy, shiny, and comfortable. Below, you can find the most popular and favorite choice of grooming tools for German Shepherd dogs: Final words Hair loss in German Shepherds is a common concern for many pet owners. While shedding is a natural process that occurs twice a year, excessive hair loss could signal underlying health problems, ranging from poor nutrition to allergies, parasitic infections, hormonal imbalances, and more. Identifying the root cause is crucial to provide the right treatment and care for your German Shepherd. A balanced diet, regular grooming, veterinary check-ups, and proper care can minimize hair loss. If other concerning symptoms accompany your dog's hair loss, seeking veterinary advice is vital. Remember, every German Shepherd is unique, and understanding their individual needs will help them lead healthier and happier life. Frequently asked questions Do you still have questions? Check our FAQ section, and you can find your answer here! German Shepherds typically shed the most during the spring and fall months. This is due to them shedding their winter and summer coats to adjust to the changing seasons. However, it can vary depending on the climate and indoor living conditions. Generally, German Shepherds do not require haircuts. Their double coat naturally sheds and renews. Cutting their hair could interfere with their temperature regulation. Regular brushing to remove loose hairs and prevent matting is usually sufficient for their grooming needs. Signs of skin allergies in dogs may include itching, redness, swelling of the skin, and hair loss. The dog may also excessively scratch, lick, or chew the affected areas. Yes, German Shepherds can have skin problems. These may include allergies, dermatitis, parasitic infestations, and hormonal imbalances. Such issues can lead to symptoms like itching, redness, sores, and hair loss. Regular vet check-ups can help manage and prevent these conditions. German Shepherds shed throughout the year but can experience increased shedding in the winter as they prepare to grow their thicker coats. Indoor heating can also confuse their natural shedding cycles, potentially leading to more hair loss during winter. In the summer, your German Shepherd is likely shedding its thick winter coat to make way for a lighter summer coat. This natural process, also known as "blowing the coat," helps the dog regulate body temperature and adapt to warmer weather. Hair loss in dogs or also known as alopecia can be caused by several factors. Here are some of the most common reasons for it: 1. Seasonal Shedding Seasonal shedding is normal in double-coated breeds like German shepherds. German Shepherds will shed their undercoats in preparation for warmer or colder weather in the spring and summer months. This is the mechanism that allows them to regulate their body temperature while adjusting to new seasons. This hair loss does not require any treatment; however, it can be very noticeable due to all of the excess hair on a floor or couch. Allergies According to many vets, allergies are the most frequent cause of hair loss in dogs. It can be caused by environmental factors such as mold or pollen. It can also be a result of food allergies or an allergy to its own fur. Typical symptoms of allergy-based hair loss are severe itching, constant licking or chewing, red skin, and of course, hair loss. When treating allergies, the first thing you must do is determine the cause to come up with an adequate treatment plan, which your vet will help you with. Depending on the cause, treatment options include the elimination of the allergen, antihistamines, or steroids. Parasites An infestation with parasites can cause dogs to lose fur not only from certain parts of their body but also all over. There are different types of parasites that can cause them to lose furs, such as fleas, ticks, and mites. They cause hair loss by passing through the skin and into the bloodstream. This causes irritation and itchiness, which results in your German shepherd constantly itching or scratching their fur off. One thing you should look out for is the possibility of contagion. Some mites, like the scabies mite, are highly contagious to humans and other household pets. Unlike the Demodex mite, other mites will not infect humans but can cause severe irritation to your dog. However, on certain occasions, they can grow out of control and cause an infection or irritation to the skin. These infections can cause a dog to lose its fur, similar to hair loss caused by parasites. Ringworm is a fungal infection that can be seen as reddish or brown patches on the skin surface. The symptoms can vary depending on the type of infection. Therefore, it is important to identify the right type of infection before deciding on a treatment. This can be done through proper testing with your vet. Genetics Some dog breeds are more genetically predisposed to losing fur than others. Hair loss can be seen all over the body of dogs with this genetic trait. However, some may only lose hair on certain parts of their bodies, like an ear or tail. Pet owners who have a dog that is genetically predisposed to losing fur can help prevent it from happening by grooming the fur regularly and properly supplying their dogs with the right nutrition and diet. Nutritional Deficiencies A deficiency in certain vitamins or minerals can cause a German Shepherd dog to lose fur. Keratin is the building block of hair. It needs sulfur amino acids in order to be synthesized. Similarly, biotin is also important for hair growth. Other symptoms are darkening of the skin, excessive drinking, urination, and the development of a potbelly. They are often seen as a result of genetics, but certain environmental factors can also cause them. This results in the immune system attacking healthy cells, causing an autoimmune disease. These pressure sores are usually seen on older dogs, especially those who come from large breed households. When a pressure sore develops, the skin will start to break and bleed, forming an open sore. Eventually, the skin will become callus, and the fur around this open sore will start to fall out. Stress Dogs that are exposed to constant sources of stress like moving into a new environment or being spayed can start losing their fur. Diagnosing Hair Loss in Your German Shepherd Most of the time, German Shepherds will lose their fur naturally without any underlying medical conditions. The best way to find out if this is the case is through proper diagnostic tests. In some cases, your vet may prescribe anti-parasitics, antifungals, antibiotics, or steroid treatments to cure the hair loss condition. Other times, a cure for the cause of hair loss may not be available if the cause is a genetic problem or auto-immune disorder. In these cases, the most that can be done is to help manage the symptoms and slow down hair loss. Hair Loss Signs in Dogs Even though there are many reasons for fur loss in dogs, they all have some common signs that you can keep an eye out for. Shedding more than normal and the appearance of bald patches can further indicate a serious problem. This is especially true if these patches are accompanied by small, scaly red lesions or inflamed skins and rancid odor. Do they lose weight even though they have been eating the same amount as usual? Do you notice a drop in their energy levels? Do they whine or yelp out in pain? Learn to identify these signs and get your German Shepherd checked by a vet as soon as possible if you notice any of them. Dog Simple Hair Loss Home Remedies Here are some simple and natural treatments that you can use to prevent or cure hair loss in your German Shepherd: 1. Hempseed Oil Hemp seed oil is a rich natural source of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. Additionally, hemp seed oil also contains high levels of vitamin E, which is known to promote strong, glossy hair growth in dogs. Lemon Juice Lemon juice has antibacterial properties that can help fight off any external bacteria that may lead to hair loss. Let it sit for an hour or so and rinse with warm water. Do this regularly for best results. Fish Oil It has been widely known that fish oil is beneficial for the health of pet dogs. A healthy digestive tract means healthy skin and fur. Try giving your dog a small spoonful of plain Greek yogurt first and see how they react to it before adding it to their diet. Aloe Vera Aloe Vera works well for many skin issues in dogs. Olive Oil Olive oil has high levels of antioxidants and vitamins that make it a good choice for moisturizing dry, brittle, or damaged fur. If your dog has very dry or dull fur, massage a little olive oil into their coat and leave it in for an hour or two. Another benefit of olive oil is that mites are known to hate the smell of it and will tend to avoid anything that smells like olive oil. If you think your dog may have mites or fleas, try rubbing a little olive oil on their fur as a natural repellent. Tea Tree Oil Tea tee oil does work well for treating flea infestations. It contains compounds that repel and kill fleas. Take caution when using tea tree essential oil. A small amount can do wonders for your dog, but using too much of it may cause adverse reactions. Remember to start with a small amount and increase the dosage gradually. Final Thoughts While there are no one-size-fits-all solutions when it comes to dealing with dogs that shed, adding healthy nutrients and proper grooming will help keep the fur at bay—and make cleaning up around the house easier too! If your dog is experiencing hair loss or excessive shedding, it may be time to take them in for a veterinary exam. Before or after your appointment, you may want to try out some of the things above and see how they help. Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful and useful as you raise and train your German Shepherd. Here are some of my favorite reviews for German Shepherd supplies that I personally use and recommend. Here is my recommendation for the best dog food for German Shepherds. Leash: A leash is a must-have for any German Shepherd owner. With a good leash, you can give your dog the freedom they need while keeping them safe and under control. Here are my top picks for the best leashes for German Shepherds. A harness that is improperly fitted or used can cause serious injury to your dog. Read my review of the best harnesses for German Shepherds here. Different bowls serve different purposes, and the bowl that you need will depend on a number of factors. See my recommendation for the best dog bowl for German Shepherds here. There are a ton of different factors to consider when choosing a crate. Beds: German Shepherds need a bed that is comfortable, supportive, and durable. This breed is known for being high energy, so you need a bed that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. House: It can be tough to find the best dog house for German Shepherds. Shampoo: You want to find a shampoo that is specifically designed for German Shepherds. This breed has a lot of furs, and you need a shampoo that will be gentle on their skin and coat. Shock Collar: A shock collar is a training tool that can be used on German Shepherds. It delivers an electric shock to the dog when they exhibit certain behaviors. While some people are against the use of shock collars, I believe that they can be helpful in certain situations. Read my review of the best shock collar for German Shepherds here. Vacuum: If you have a German Shepherd, you need a vacuum that is specifically designed to deal with all of the furs they shed. Shedding is a natural process for dogs, but it can be hard to keep up with. The right vacuum will make your life much easier. Related posts:. Best of all? Maintain an optimal diet. Are you feeding your dog food specifically made for their skin health? Providing a healthy diet is one of the most effective ways to reduce excessive shedding. Lower quality dog food is largely composed of ingredients that German Shepherds have a hard time digesting, like wheat,s soy, or corn. GSDs are also prone to dry skin and allergies, some of which are linked to a lack of a balanced diet. A balanced diet builds a strong immune system in your dog — and a healthy immune system is able to better fight diseases and maintain skin health. Look for dog food that lists meat as the main ingredient, as meats are easier to digest and absorb. Quality ingredients reduce shedding and help with dry skin as the nutrients are more readily available. For excessive hair fall and shedding, feed Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach dog food to help nourish their skin and coat while limiting irritations. Did you know that dehydration can lead to dry skin? And dry skin can cause shedding and contribute to other illnesses. Make sure your German Shepherd always has access to clean, fresh drinking water. One simple and often overlooked German Shepherd shedding solution is to ensure your dog is drinking enough water. Hydrated, supple skin resists excessive shedding. Inadequate water intake could lead to dry skin, which in turn could lead to skin irritation, constant itching, hair follicles weakening, and hair falling out unnecessarily. How much water is enough for a German Shepherd? So, if your dog is thirsty because she has been outside playing, let her drink. Some owners even supply their dogs filtered water, which is great. But as long as the water is clean and fresh, tap water is just as good. Adding in a portion of wet food to their regular kibble is a good way to help keep your dog hydrated source. If you take long walks or play intense games, be sure to have a travel water botter to give your dog the hydration they need when on the go. Brush thoroughly and frequently. Brushing more frequently can trap hairs on your brushing tool, instead of your couch. This means that fur winds up on your brush, which you can throw away, as opposed to your clothing, floors, and furniture which is harder to clean. Use a grooming tool that is designed specifically to remove shedding undercoats on a German Shepherd called a rake brush. The Conair Pro Undercoat Rake Brush removes dead hair from the undercoat and spreads healthy skin oils, resulting in a glossy coat. Brush frequently, but gently The more often you brush your German Shepherd, the more hair you will remove to avoid excessive hair loss. During the shedding seasons of fall and spring, brush your German Shepherd daily. At other times brush your dog at least twice a week—more if you have time. Make grooming a habit that your dog enjoys by keeping your shedding removal sessions short, 5 to 10 minutes, positive, and using gentle strokes with a light hand. Brush your dog outside or on walks. Want to learn a quick routine for brushing your German Shepherd? Bathe them with a de-shedding, moisturizing shampoo. Did you know there are shampoos and conditioners which can reduce hair fall in your GSD? This also prevents irritation and scratching from developing — which can lead to your German Shepherd losing hair. Bathing with de-shedding products loosens and removes the excess undercoat and dead hair. Overbathing can cause dry skin, which causes itching and shedding by stripping their natural skin oils. German Shepherd hair fall shampoo and conditioner Many GSDs need conditioner to prevent dry, itchy skin and further hair loss. The soap-free formula is safe to use with spot-on flea and tick products. It also contains no dyes or parabens for dogs with sensitive skin, while helping to maintain normal shedding and reducing doggie odor. After bathing your dog, towel-dry him to remove excess water. A damp coat is a breeding ground for bacteria on the skin — which can increase hair loss! Keep brushing and wiping them with the towel until they are no longer damp. Check and control fleas and ticks. Fleas can cause your dog to scratch continually, which causes fur to fall out. So, make sure your dog is free of fleas, ticks, or other parasites that cause skin issues. A flea-free dog prevents dandruff, irritated skin, hair loss, and decreases overall shedding. In many cases, a safe flea treatment that your vet recommends should be enough to prevent parasites. However, fleas can induce Flea Allergy Dermatitis FAD , which is one of the most common dermatologic diseases in household dogs throughout the United States source. This irritation, in turn, can lead to itching, excessive shedding, and even hair loss or bald patches of hair. If you notice redness, patchy balding areas, scabs, or have any concerns at all, contact a veterinarian. Keep a de-shedding spray on hand. This lightweight de-shedding spray helps prevent shedding. Always keep a lightweight de-shedding spray on hand to add back moisture and prevent the skin from drying out. The spray contains conditioners that coat the hair, preventing unnecessary hair loss. Moisturized hair is harder to come loose easily. Also, the moisture in the de-shedding spray keeps your dog from scratching at dry skin which helps inhibit hair fall. The combination of the spray and rake brush is an easy, powerful way to reduce German Shepherd hair loss. Look for sprays that contain healthy skin oils, such as jojoba, safflower, sunflower, or coconut to aid in skin health. Give them a stress-reducing massage. Stress causes hair loss — which directly adds to a shedding problem. You might laugh, but an anxious or stressed dog loses more hair than a calm, relaxed dog. As an added bonus, massage provides a daily dose of bonding! Massage for stress and shedding reduction Sit next to your dog on the floor in a quiet, comfortable room. Using very light hands, stroke your dog softly from head to tail for 15 minutes. Do this every week. Not only is this relaxing for your dog, but petting a dog is shown to decrease your blood pressure and increases bonding. Use these double-duty grooming gloves for extra hair removal. The innovative design features the perfect combination of rubber nodules on the fingers and palm, which feels like a massage, and helps to promote bonding. They work specifically as a heavy-duty de-shedder to capture hard to reach hair. While this seems like a simple shedding solution, proving a massage with the right type of grooming tool reduces stress in your German Shepherd and goes a long way to keep them healthy. Feed a shed control nutritional supplement. Shed-X claims to stop excessive shedding in only 3 to 6 weeks! Created by a certified veterinarian, the Shed-X Dermalex Shed Control Nutritional Supplement reduces and even eliminates excessive shedding. The specially formulated nutrients focus on an optimum coat and skin health for fast-acting results. In only 3 to 4 weeks A more manageable and healthier coat with less hair fall, while your German Shepherd enjoys the tasty flavor and essential fatty acids to reduce itchy, scaly skin. Combine fish oil into their daily diet. If your dog is lacking in fatty acids, then adding fish oil may help be a simple solution to reduce their shedding. Fish oil contains omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, which significantly decreases hair shedding. Given daily fish oils can help aid in excessive shedding. Look for a natural supplement that also contains other proven skin-healthy oils, like flaxseed oil. Zesty Paws contains both salmon and hemp seed oil and is great for a healthy coat. Moreover, a blend of wild Alaskan salmon and refined virgin hemp seed oils work together to pack a powerful punch of nutrients and omega fatty acids. These ingredients may improve coat health, joint mobility, heart health, stress levels, and immunity. A strong coat starts with supple skin that prevents excessive hair loss and protects your GSD from irritations. Keep in mind that positive effects take a few months to notice. So stay consistent with daily use for the best results. See more fish oils for German Shepherds. Reduces itching, scratching, and hair loss from food allergies. Always have clean, fresh water on hand. Even during cooler weather the skin can become dried out due to lack of water intake. Bathe with a de-shedding shampoo. Apply parasite prevention to avoid skin issues and hair loss from irritation caused by bug bites. Apply a de-shedding spray. De-shedding sprays reduce hair fall by keeping the skin moisturized and adding nutrients to the skin. Give a stress-reducing massage. A calm, relaxed dog is a pet that sheds less. And, using massaging and grooming gloves packs a double-punch of hair removal power! Feed a shed control supplement. Combine fish oil into their diet. Use this helpful table to find the best ways to de-shed a German Shepherd. German Shepherds are heavy shedders and their coat requires regular maintenance to show optimum health. Watch out for hair loss and skin disease that needs to be addressed and treated by your vet. Ger your dog evaluated by a veterinarian when you see any unusual hair or skin problems. Is there a permanent German Shepherd shedding solution? However, many of the shedding solutions listed give you the steps you need to understand how to stop German Shepherd hair fall in huge amounts. Include a few or all of these shedding tips into your routine and results will happen, but not overnight. And, when all else fails or you feel like giving up, just buy a shedding bodysuit for your German Shepherd like so many other dog owners have! The biggest factor in excessive hair loss is the overall health of your dog. But, an overall healthy skin and coat health routine decreases hair loss and makes cleaning your home more manageable. When all that fur flying has got you down, just remember… Why not get this funny magnet as a gentle reminder to yourself and your family? Shed Happens! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Some hair loss patterns suggest health problems that, in most cases, should be addressed by a veterinarian. Dog experts can distinguish between shedding, a natural cycle of hair development, and fur loss caused by health, dietary, and environmental factors. A variety of factors can cause atypical fur loss in German Shepherds. A healthy balanced diet provides a consistent supply of essential nutrients. As such, a poor diet lacking nutrients will cause hair loss. When your dog is losing more water than he is taking in, it compromises healthy blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues and organs, including the skin. The resulting loss of skin elasticity makes the fur easily fall out. Consider getting a dog water fountain, such as the Petsafe Drinkwell from Amazon, that encourages your dog to drink. I particularly like this one as it has two tiers and includes carbon filters to remove bad taste and odors from the water. Parasites, ticks, lice, and fleas. A benign tumor causes this in the pituitary, which prompts excessive production of the stress hormone cortisol, which causes hair loss in dogs. Some symptoms of hypothyroidism include increased shedding, hair loss, and thinning. Underdeveloped hair follicles. This can be congenital even though not necessarily hereditary. The hair follicles fail to develop as they should, causing patchy or general hair loss. Behavioral problems. High levels of stress and anxiety, such as separation anxiety or OCD, can cause your German Shepherd to chew its hair and skin, leaving patches. This condition is known as acral lick dermatitis. Parasites and other allergic conditions can also cause it. Skin trauma. Skin trauma such as bacterial and fungal infections, food and other allergies, some pet medications like steroids, inflammatory disease, and burns can cause excessive shedding. Temporary fur loss can also happen during pregnancy, lactation, or while convalescing. Whatever the cause of abnormal hair loss, it is important that your vet makes an accurate diagnosis. Nonetheless, remedies and preventive measures for unnatural hair loss are similar to controlling excessive seasonal shedding. Read about these measures later in the article. Welcome to the German Shepherd shedding season! German Shepherds shed the most in the fall and spring. They shed most of their undercoat during September, October, and November and replace it with a thicker, warmer winter coat. They will then shed their old winter undercoat during March, April, and May, making room for a lighter summer coat. This prepares them for the cold winter months ahead. Spring shedding is also within the norm among German Shepherds. This time, the breed sheds most of its thick undercoat to allow a lighter, thinner version to better cope with the summer heat. Having established that the German Shepherd sheds all year round and undergoes excessive shedding in the fall and spring, you may wonder how you can get your German Shepherd to stop shedding… To get your German Shepherd to stop shedding, brush him daily, use an undercoat de-shedding tool in shedding season, twice per week, bathe him times a year, switch to a healthy diet that promotes a healthy coat and skin, keep him hydrated, and keep parasites at bay. Good Hair Grooming Good fur grooming is your best bet when it comes to coping with excessive shedding in your German Shepherd. German Shepherds are categorized according to their outer coat as medium-length normal or long-haired. This variation in hair length also means a difference in hair grooming, especially when brushing and de-matting. I recommend a de-matting tool to remove any mats or tangles for longer-haired German Shepherds. Ideally, choose an adjustable tool to work on all coat lengths for the safe removal of matted fur. Three key aspects of hair grooming during the heavy shedding seasons for both varieties are important; hair brushing, de-shedding, and regular bathing. Hair Brushing and Deshedding Usually, two or three times a week is enough to brush your German Shepherd. For a thorough brushing, brush in the direction the coat grows to eradicate loose dead hair. You should de-shed your German Shepherd times per week to help remove the undercoat before it falls away, leaving clumps scattered all over your home! The brush has a non-slip handle and a self-clean button that retracts the bristles, so the removed fur easily falls off, and your brush is ready for the next grooming session. The tool has an ejector button that you press to release the fur magically, and the handle is ergonomic for easy grooming and comfortable handling. You can choose either a long hair tool or a short hair one. My German Shepherd with her FURminator undercoat de-shedding tool Like me, if you like the FURminator brand, they also have a grooming rake ideal for thick fur and dense double coats. You can check out my favorite three Furminator grooming tools here. Regular Baths With Dog Shampoo An occasional bath once in a while is good enough for the German Shepherd as they are naturally clean and tend to be odor-free. However, I suggest a couple of extra baths in the heavy shedding season to help reduce hair loss, as bathing your dog rids the coat of dead hair. Three or four times a year is a general opinion. Always use dog shampoo when bathing. But if your dog is not fed a healthy diet, the shedding will be worse. To keep shedding in the normal, always feed your GSD with high-quality food. This implies the right amounts of protein, fats, carbohydrates and fiber, vitamins, minerals, and of course, water. Healthy, nutritious dog food contains meat, grains, vegetables, and fruits. As large-sized high-energy dogs, German Shepherds require a protein-rich diet. Shedding is completely normal, while hair loss can be indicative of a serious health problem. Your German Shepherd may be losing hair due to health issues, such as allergies, infections, diseases, or external factors, such as the environment. Internal factors, such as hereditary conditions can also cause hair loss. It is a symptom of an underlying health condition which must be resolved in order to stop the hair loss. Hair loss is often accompanied by other symptoms, but can also be the primary symptom. There are several different factors and illnesses that could be causing hair loss in your German Shepherd. Hair loss may be caused by hereditary or genetic factors, like allergies and diseases, or other triggers like infections and neglect. The hair loss should be resolved once the issue causing it is addressed. Below are some of the most common causes of hair loss in German Shepherds. Each health condition has its own cause, presentation, symptoms, and treatments. The majority are curable with the correct diagnosis and treatment plan. Allergies in animals should be taken seriously. Dogs can be allergic to almost anything, just like people. Some common allergy sources are: Foods, such as poultry or grains; some dogs are even allergic to peanut butter Medications, such as anxiety medication or joint supplements Household elements, such as the dog shampoo or laundry detergent Environmental elements, such as pollen and mold Parasites, such as fleas and mites Parasitic allergies are one of the most common allergy triggers. If your dog is frequently itching, scratching, and otherwise biting specific areas, this may be why. Allergies can be addressed with medication, allergy shots, pills, diet changes, or lifestyle changes. Your vet may also recommend eliminating all potential allergy causes and reintroducing them one at a time in order to gauge what causes the hair loss. Lack Of Hair From Rashes And Hives Similar to allergies, your dog may break out in rashes or hives as a result of an environmental or other triggers. Lawn care treatments, shampoos and conditioners, and even pool chemicals can all cause your dog to have an adverse reaction. Your dog may have an immediate or delayed reaction. Monitor the rash to see if it resolves within a few hours. Infections can have a variety of sources. Some more common sources of infections and skin infestations include: Ringworm, Mites, Bacteria and Mange. Different types of infections may cause different symptoms. For example, ringworm causes inflammation and infected crusts, while mites cause oily skin. Common symptoms across different infections include itching and inflammation, and all will also result in hair loss. You may also be able to gauge the type of infection by the hair loss itself. Ringworm causes circular hair loss, whereas mites cause general hair loss around the ears, eyes, and mouth. Your vet will be able to diagnose and treat infections. Have a list of the symptoms ready, in addition to a stool sample. Infections can be treated with medication and antibiotics. This can cause hair loss. Symptoms include a distended stomach and excessive drinking, eating, urination and panting. Because of this, German Shepherds are at risk. However, they are not a breed that is predisposed to developing this condition. If you have any of these breeds in addition to your German Shepherd, pay close attention to the symptoms. And remember, although German Shepherds are less likely to be affected by hypothyroidism, they can still be at risk because of their size and age. Hypopituitarism is another congenital disease that is characterized by hair loss, and which may present similar symptoms to hypothyroidism. Pressure Sores May Limit Hair Growth Dogs may also lose hair where their elbows and other bony body parts come into contract with the floor and other hard surfaces. Over time, this pressure causes the hair to fall out. The skin will thicken into calluses, which can in turn pressure sores if the calluses crack, become infected, or are otherwise damaged. Dogs that are prone to this condition include: Older and middle-aged dogs Overweight or naturally bulky dogs Lean and naturally bony dogs Each of these types of dogs tends to put more pressure on their joints. Pressure sores can be easily treated with antibiotics and bracing. You can also use moisturizers and thicker bedding to treat sores and prevent future ones from forming. Stress Harms Your Pup In More Ways than One If your German Shepherd has been stressed for a prolonged period of time, this can either directly cause hair loss or cause behaviors such as excessive licking and itching that will eventually result in hair loss. Some common stressors are: Separation anxiety.

At what age is a Golden Retriever fully grown? As larger dogs, Golden Retrievers can take up to two years to reach their full weight. Most Golden Retrievers will be close to their adult height and weight around a year of age but may need one more year to fill out their chest fully. A six-month-old male Golden Retriever will weigh between 35 to 45 pounds, while their female counterpart will weigh around 30 to 35 pounds at the same age. As for their height, most Golden Retrievers will still need another three to six months to reach their adult height. At this age, they will likely be a few inches away from their adult height, which ranges from .Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide with 39 dog care tips on bonding with your pet, puppy-proofing your home, training, microchips, and more! How much bigger will my Golden Retriever get? There are a few ways you can estimate how much bigger your Golden Retriever will get. If they are less than a year old, they still need more time to reach their full adult size. Many Golden Retrievers can take up to two years to completely fill out, though their weight at one year old is usually close to their full adult weight. A puppy is rarely larger than their bigger parent, so this will also give you a general idea of their maximum weight. If their paws still look large or oversized next to their body and legs, they are probably still filling out and have some growing left to do, as this is a classic sign of adolescence in canines. What is the size of a full-grown Golden Retriever? As adults, Golden Retrievers will appear overall symmetrical and have a powerful body hidden beneath beautiful, golden fur. Golden Retrievers are stunning, sunny dogs that easily steal our hearts. Unfortunately, as a purebred dog breed, they are more susceptible to genetic diseases, which can compromise their lifespan and quality of life. However, many genetic disorders can be treated or prevented with regular veterinary care. Remember that prevention is almost always easier and less expensive than treatment. Your veterinarian may recommend a large-breed growth food to your Golden Retriever puppy to support their growth rate which can help prevent or decrease the severity of hip dysplasia in adulthood. According to the Veterinary Centers of America , Golden Retrievers are also more prone to gaining excess weight. Golden Retrievers are also susceptible to various genetic health disorders, such as oral tumors and aortic stenosis. Aortic stenosis is most commonly found in large, purebred dogs, including Golden Retrievers, and occurs when the aortic valves to the heart narrow. Aortic stenosis causes the body to struggle to pump blood through the valve, creating additional stress on the body. If untreated, aortic stenosis can lead to muscle failure and even fatality. However, veterinarians can treat many genetic diseases like aortic stenosis and oral tumors through surgery and medication. Even with proper prevention and wellness care, necessary veterinary visits can be expensive, with many treatments costing thousands of dollars. Out of over 20, pet parents surveyed , only .The last thing you should be focused on when the worst happens is how to finance a needed surgery or treatment for your beloved pet. This is where pet insurance comes in. Just like people, dogs are living longer lives and will need additional veterinary care to maintain a happy quality of life. Let pet insurance help you with these costs should the worst happen to your dog. Wellness plans are also available as an add-on to help with the ongoing costs of regular veterinary care , like x-rays and exams. Act now and give yourself peace of mind knowing that your Golden Retriever is covered should anything happen. Compare top Golden Retriever pet insurance plans side-by-side with Pawlicy Advisor today! Key Takeaways On average, male Golden Retrievers weigh pounds and females weigh pounds. At full height, Goldens stand between .Although puppies groww extremely fast, the Golden Retriever breed can take as long as 2 years to reach full maturity. Owners should keep an eye on their Golden Retriever's diet because they are very prone to obesity. Pet insurance helps cover the cost of care necessary to give your Goldie a happy, healthy life. 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. Your new furry friend has a lot of growing to do, and you probably have a lot of questions. Your Golden Retriever puppy will go through a number of developmental stages throughout their first twelve weeks. Male Golden Retrievers generally weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand from 23 to 24 inches tall. Females are generally smaller weighing between 55 to 65 pounds, and will grow to stand .At 4 months, your Golden Retriever puppy will reach about half their adult height. When it comes to mental development, it can take even longer than that before the Golden Retriever is fully mature. However, every puppy is a unique individual, and these are merely milestone guidelines. Disparities exist between the working and show Goldens, as well as between males and females. Golden Retriever puppy growth can also be quite sporadic. As an overall average, many Golden Retriever puppies will weigh just approximately 1. Golden Retrievers are classified as a gundog breed, and these dogs are often divided into those bred for show and those meant for work. However, the body of the show Golden is typically larger, taller, heavy-boned, and fuller in the chest. Small Parents Like people, puppies inherit physical traits from their parents. And even puppies from the same litter can vary in size. Neither of these scenarios is healthy for a puppy. Larger breeds like the Golden Retriever are more at risk for growth disorders than small breed dogs. This article will give you a lot more information on how much to feed, what to feed, and how often to feed a Golden Retriever puppy. Illness and Puppy Growth If a puppy has been seriously ill for a prolonged period, it may affect their ability to grow normally. However, once the puppy is free of worms, they should continue to grow at a normal rate. The best way to determine if your puppy is too thin or too fat is by how he looks and feels. When looking at your puppy from above, he should have a noticeable waistline. Another way to tell is by putting your hands on either side of his ribcage. You should be able to feel his ribs using a gentle pressure. But if his ribs are visible, he could be underweight. Obesity is a huge problem for many dog breeds. Although there are ways to make your puppy grow bigger, this is not something you should attempt. It could also mean you end up with a fat puppy. One of the best ways to ensure your puppy has a long, healthy life is to ensure he stays at an optimal weight. Hip and elbow dysplasia and other musculoskeletal disorders are associated with excess weight in larger breeds. Having your dog neutered at a young age can also cause them to grow taller. The problem is, this can also cause abnormalities in joint formation. Neutering also makes Golden Retrievers more at risk for certain types of cancers. Typically it will take approximately 18 months for your Golden Retriever to become an adult dog. Even though they can reach their full height at anywhere from 9 to 12 months, it will usually take them longer to fill out to their full weight. Remember that there are wide variations in size within the Golden Retriever breed. If this is the case, you should contact your veterinarian to seek advice. Beginning the puppy development stages before birth Puppy development stages week by week Amazingly, in a way the puppy development stages begin before your dog is even born. Your puppy spends approximately 9 weeks developing inside his Mom. The mother dog has a womb or uterus, that has two long tubes, and the puppies grow in a row along each tube rather like peas in a pod. The puppies are joined to their mother by a placenta which provides all the nourishment they need for those few weeks. To begin with, the puppies have plenty of room to move but they grow fast and as the time for birth draws near they are packed in quite tightly. The one week old puppy Your puppy is born fully furred but with his eyes and ears closed so he cannot hear or see. His front feet are strong and he can pull himself towards his mother with them. He can cry if he is uncomfortable and his mother will respond to his cries by moving him towards her and licking him. Your puppy spends most of his time sleeping or suckling. He cannot regulate his own body temperature and needs his mother for heat, or an artificial heat source. In the first week to ten days of his life your puppy grows rapidly and will double his birth weight. His forelegs are getting much stronger. She licks the puppies bottoms to stimulate a bowel or bladder movement and eats the result. There is no cleaning up for the breeder to do yet. The breeder will begin to handle the puppies more though, and get them used to human contact. She will worm the puppies for the first time at the end of this week. Puppies begin to get their personalities. Your puppy can stand and sit up by the end of the week. Tails can be wagged, ears will be completely open and puppies start play growling and interacting with their littermates. Your puppy can regulate his body temperature more effectively and will start to cut his first teeth in preparation for weaning. The front teeth, canines and incisors are cut first. Toward the end of the week he may have his first tiny taste of puppy food. They also start to move away from the sleeping area to empty their bowels and bladder. They may try to climb out of the whelping box. If she lives indoors, she may rejoin the family for more of each day. Your puppy will cut his back teeth and the breeder will get weaning underway this week and by the end of it, your puppy will be getting quite a bit of his nourishment from puppy food. She will also worm the puppies a second time. If the mother is allowed near the puppies after she has been fed, she may regurgitate her dinner for them. This is completely natural and normal. He is a proper little dog. Rolling around with his brothers and sisters and playing with toys. Teething toys, puppy Kongs, balls and rope toys are big favorites with puppies. He can bark too and some puppies can be quite noisy at this age! He chases after his mother whenever she appears and suckles hungrily, but she is starting to get fed up with it, and may be reluctant to feed her brood for very long. His mother is teaching him not to bite too hard. If he lives in outdoor kennels he should spend part of each day indoors with the family. By the end of the sixth week, most are fully weaned, and eating five or six little meals of puppy food each day. Socialization must begin in earnest. He is now two months old and ready for his new life. It is the time during which they become fearful of anything unfamiliar and need to be thoroughly socialized. This is also the time during which most puppies get to grips with house-training, learning to wait before eliminating and start sleeping through the night without a potty break. It is a busy time for new puppy owners. Your puppy will have his vaccinations during this month. Biting can be a big problem during this stage and you need to be patient and consistent in order to teach the puppy not to hurt people when he plays. Provided you use force free methods, this is a great time to get puppy training under way, and especially to teach a puppy recall, and to get your puppy used to working with food. So, for a 2. You can do the same calculation for medium pups at sixteen weeks and large breed pups at 20 weeks — just divide his weight by his age in weeks before you multiply by .Medium to large pups will reach about half their adult height by the end of the month. If the weather is warm you can get your puppy swimming now. He should be able to come when he is called, in and around your home, provided there are not too many distractions. It all depends on what you have taught him. He may still be chewing a lot and biting too. Use frozen Kongs to help him and give your furniture and fingers a break. Puppies can go for short walks now. By the end of this month your puppy could have a twenty minute walk each day. He may also enjoy fetching a ball and playing with other dogs, but take care to stop before he gets very tired. Less dependence This is the month during which some puppies start to become less dependent on their humans for security. Keep your puppy close to you outdoors by changing direction frequently so that you puppy has to keep coming to find you. And engaging him in games. The foundations of a great recall are often build or spoilt during this month. If your puppy knows how to sit or lie down at home, start some simple proofing exercises with him in public places. A healthy puppy can usually manage on two meals a day from around six months. During this month a Retriever, Spaniel or GSD puppy will reach around two thirds of his adult weight. A Great Dane and other large breeds will have reached about half their final weight and little dogs will have almost completed their growth. Some female dogs will come on heat for the first time during this month, or the next, so keep an eye open now for swelling of her vulva and any discharge. Your dog will become increasingly confident over the next few months so practice, practice and practice that recall! Make it a habit he cannot break. And be generous with your rewards. Small breed pups may now be more or less mature. Your puppy will enjoy half hour off lead walks now, and should be able to walk on a loose lead for short periods with plenty of encouragement and rewards. Keep practicing that recall! These help to slow his growth further and to build his confidence. Make sure you practice good outdoor management on walks to maintain the good recall you have built and work hard on thoroughly proofing all his obedience skills. Read up on neutering before you take this important step, for dogs of either sex. Once your dog is a year old he can participate in more strenuous activities and sports. Now is the time to think about the kinds of activities you would like to do with him — go jogging together for example — and if necessary, to start to get him fit. Puppy development stages — Summary There is huge variation in the way in which dogs develop and mature. The puppy development stages and ages outlined above are a rough guide. We hope you enjoyed them and found the information interesting. When it comes to training, you get out what you put in. Your progress depends as much if not more on you rather than your puppy. If you train your puppy five times a day, six days a week he will learn many, many times faster than a puppy that is trained once a day at the weekend. Enjoy watching your puppy grow and develop. And have fun! Much like human teenagers, canine adolescents typically display some behavioral issues and moodiness, which can be trying not just for them but for anyone who interacts with them for a few months. Being a teenager is hard, and so is parenting them! Your pooch will likely develop legs, ears, and a nose that grow faster than the rest of their body. This is completely normal. Your pup is just in their awkward teenage phase, which usually results in a gangly appearance. However, your pup could be smaller or taller than that based on its genetics and the type of golden. How Much Sleep a 7-Month-Old Golden Retriever Needs Your 7-month-old Golden Retriever is going to be growing rapidly over the next few months, so they need lots of sleep because sleep is crucial for growth and development. Most puppies sleep between 20 hours, but older pups will eventually sleep for 14 hours per day. Your golden will likely fall somewhere in between the two. An overly-sleepy puppy is not only moody but quite wild. Around every 3 hours or so of play, you should let your dog out to go potty and then attempt to get them to take a nap. It helps if you give them a quiet, comfortable space to sleep. Crates and pens work well for this. And the last element of nap time should be a soft chew toy. Puppies chew and hold things in their mouths to soothe themselves to sleep. A 7-month-old Golden Retriever should be eating cups of food per day, which you should split up into 3 separate meals. Not only do you need quality puppy food , but it also needs to be a puppy food designed for large breed dogs. Golden Retrievers are prone to over-eating and many of them are overweight as a result. The general guideline is that your pup should exercise 5 minutes every month of life. So since your pup is 7 months old, they should receive around 35 minutes of exercise per day. This is good news for lots of people who have been waiting to go on long walks with their Golden Retriever pup! When I was a kid, we got a 6-month-old Golden Retriever named Bear. I have no earthly idea why they named him Bear. At any rate, when he first came to us, he was full of enough energy to power the small village we lived in. Not seriously. Some of the stuff we dealt with early on in the first couple of months we had him included jumping upon us and anyone else he came in contact with , him being mouthy and chewing on things, and being destructive. Luckily, my dad was always good at training dogs. He was a true dog- lover, and he loved that dog. And my brother and I were young enough that we had the energy to spare, too. We ran all over our acre of property with Bear from the time we got home from school until it was time to go to bed every day, and went on countless adventures with him. Dealing with canine adolescence and the over-abundance of energy that Golden Retrievers often have is a LOT to deal with, but if you stick to it and see it through, the reward is well worth it! Bear was one of the best dogs we ever had. Here are some of the more common behavioral issues with 7-month-old Golden Retriever: Independence It can seem like someone flipped a switch and now suddenly your puppy is interested in everything in the world around him- except you and your commands. Switch things up. Play new games with your pup, and give them new treats and rewards. Forgetfulness Your pup is going to basically go randomly forget everything maybe even their own name! Even commands that they could once easily perform will be forgotten. This sort of regression and forgetfulness is a natural part of development, even for pups who are stellar students. Destruction The most common complaint of teenaged golden owners is the destruction. You need to practice extreme patience during this time. Just continue training your pup and reward them for good behaviors. Goldens respond to reward-based positive enforcement, rather than punishment. However, consistency does work to rectify behavioral issues. Obedience Training Obedience training is your lifeline during these trying times. Mental Stimulation Another source of problem behaviors is boredom. A bored golden puppy with loads of energy is a bad combination! Some of the best ways to combat this problem are puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys, as well as playing games with your pup. Structure and Routine Just as with human children, young Golden Retrievers need structure and routine. Conclusion Your Golden Retriever has entered a new developmental phase, which is exciting! In a little more than a year, your pup will be fully grown! Even though adolescence can be difficult to deal with at times, the bond you create with your golden is priceless. Here are the other articles in this series in case you missed them:. Final Thoughts Usually, the skin hair coat that the golden Retriever has is very wavy and golden to cream in color. The size of the golden retriever depends on its growth. If they are fed regularly and provided with proper nutrition and a balanced diet, they will grow normally. In some cases, due to lack of food or nutrition, the golden retrievers cannot grow fully. This causes them to become sick and face various diseases. That is why it is highly recommended to provide them with proper food so that they can grow fully. It will also improve their muscle, nervous system, and growth. In addition to that, the fully grown golden retrievers can be a great companion for your family. It is important to ensure proper nutrition throughout their growing age so that they can become healthy when they reach the adult phase. But if you notice excess weight gaining, immediately go see a veterinary doctor. Golden Retrievers are considered medium to large-sized dogs. There are differences between the size of a male and a female golden retriever. A 7 months old male golden retriever weighs around 40 to 50 pounds. On the other hand, a 7 months old female golden retriever is around 30 to 40 pounds. The Golden Retrievers are medium to large size dogs that are commonly popular in the United States. These dogs are very friendly and love to play. They usually enjoy swimming in the water and playing fetch with their family members. The Golden Retrievers have a devoted temperament in front of the family members in the house. Usually, it takes around two years for golden retrievers to become adults or to reach their full weight. But in some cases, the Golden Retriever becomes an adult within a year of their age. There are significant differences between the weights of a male and female golden retriever. A 7 months old golden retriever is considered a golden retriever puppy. Generally, the weight of a seven-month-old male golden retriever should be around 40 to 50 lbs. On the other hand, a 7 months old female golden retriever dog should weigh around 30 to 40 pounds. The female golden retrievers need a little bit more time to become full adults. The chart below shows the standard weight of a 7 month old golden retriever dog: 7 month old golden retriever Weight should be 7 month old golden retriever male lbs. It is important to make sure that your golden retriever gets the proper food to grow up. It is highly important to consider the weight, age, and activity level of a golden retriever dog for making the food chart. You always need to have a balanced diet that will be able to ensure proper nutrition for your dog. Growing puppies should be fed often. It helps them to get the energy to survive throughout the day. That is why you need to feed a food diet that is specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs for the normal development of your puppy. It is recommended to provide your Golden retriever puppies with high-quality dog food that is rich in protein and minerals. In addition to that, you will need to provide them with more water. How much should a 7 month old golden retriever eat? In the case of a male golden retriever puppy, you need to feed three and a half to four cups of food every day. In the case of a female retriever, it is okay to provide them with three cups of food every day. Make sure to divide the food into three parts so that you can feed them three times a day. Do not feed the golden Retriever puppies very often. You need to make sure that you do not feed excess food to the golden retriever, because that may cause them to gain excess weight and face obesity. The adult golden retrievers need to eat food every day that has to calories. If the proper nutritional requirements for the Golden Retriever puppies are not met, they will face serious diseases and their growth will be disrupted. That is why you need to train them carefully so that they become well-mannered and controlled. Otherwise, they can harm anyone surrounding them. The seven months old golden retriever puppies may start to behave in an unmannered way which should be corrected immediately. Below is a brief discussion on the behaviors of seven months old golden retriever dogs: Barking: The common characteristic of a golden retriever dog puppy is to bark unnecessarily. You need to train them carefully so that they do not bark around everything they see. Although in some cases they bark to communicate with other dogs. Biting: At first, you may think that the biting of your dog is simply playing or being naughty with you. But in the future, this may cause a huge problem for you. That is why you need to train them properly so that they do not bite or feel scared to see anything. Aggressiveness: Golden retriever dogs may become very aggressive due to their characteristics. It is very normal. You need to control their behavior and make them well-mannered and well-controlled so that they do not become aggressive in front of other people. How much sleep does a 7 month old golden retriever need? The Golden retriever puppy requires at least 18 to 20 hours of sleep. Sleeping is important for a golden retriever puppy because it will help the puppy in its growth and development. Sleeping will develop their central nervous system, blood circulation, and muscle properly. As they grow older, you need to reduce their sleeping time. Generally, an adult puppy requires sleep 12 to 14 hours a day. How much exercise does a 7 month old golden retriever need? A golden retriever puppy needs to do exercise regularly because it helps to keep the central nervous system, blood pressure, and muscles stable. You can implement the 5-minute rule for the puppy to keep it healthy. It means the puppy does not require exercise for more than five minutes at once. You can take them to a field and let them jump and run. Let them go out and have some fun to make them comfortable in a social environment. You need to train them carefully so that they do not boss around the other pets or do any unruly behaviors in front of everyone. Why is my 7 month old golden retriever shedding? Usually, the talks will start to lose their hair during the spring so that they can prepare for the warmer months, such as the summer. Then again, they will grow back their hair before the winter to prevent them from getting cold. How to train a 7 month old golden retriever? It is important to train them so that they do not strike upon any other dogs or animals in society. In addition to that, you need to make them comfortable with other animals to let them become friends with them. It is important to train the golden Retrievers to prevent them from being aggressive or biting someone. Training is a part of socializing the golden Retrievers. Training the golden Retrievers when they are seven months old is the ideal time because, during this age, they learn everything. Below is a brief discussion on how to train a 7-month-old golden retriever: Potty train: To potty train your golden retriever, you need to take them outside very often. Take them to the same spot again and again so that they can be familiar with this place and do their work. Socializing: Try to take them out and let them eat with other dogs so that they can be comfortable with other animals. It is important to train them so that they do not get into a fight with other dogs. Biting: You need to stop the puppies from biting. This will help them to understand that this is not a good way to behave. Final Thoughts The Golden Retrievers are a very friendly type of dog, but they need to be trained well so that they do not harm or pounce any other animals. You need to provide the puppies a good amount of food that contains proper nutrition. It will help them to grow up properly and become healthy dogs.

Teach an alternative behavior like "lick" or "kisses" Alright, let's dive into each tip below. Exercising a puppy is one of the best ways to help alleviate problem behaviors like biting. Again, how much exercise your puppy needs will be largely dependent on their breed and age. A general rule of thumb is that a puppy can have 5 minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day. So a 4-month-old puppy can exercise for 20 minutes twice a day. The more energy your pup uses, the better! Exercise can also take the form of , just be careful not to overrun your pup. Excessive exercise can cause joint problems in the long run. There are a host of options to help you overcome this issue so you can still effectively get rid of their energy. Consider getting a flirt pole. Flirt poles are a fantastic option because they allow you to play very energetic and fun games of chase, without worrying about getting your hands nipped at. You can get one here. Another option is to teach your pup a structured game of fetch. Fetch is great because it exercises dogs both physically and mentally. Zak George lays out how to teach your dog to fetch in our free online training class, 30 Day Perfect Pup. You can sign up here. Remember, many dogs can have been bred for hundreds of years to have high levels of energy. Be sure to give your pup an outlet with exercise to help stop that puppy biting! Don't miss out! That is the perfect time to engage them mentally with a quick training session! Not only does it deter them from biting, but it gives you an opportunity to reward them for positive behavior. In its simplest form, the leave it behavior is all about restraint. A dog that can restrain from lunging and grabbing a treat on the ground, is much more likely to be able to leave your hand alone when you ask. Step 2: Show your pup a treat and then close your hand so your pup cannot access it. Your pup will likely try to get to the treat by licking, biting hopefully not , or pawing at your hand where the treat is. Step 3: Practice that behavior multiple times until your pup starts to generalize the concept. The next step after that would be to try putting a treat on the ground and telling your pup to leave it. Step 5: Practice, practice, and then keep practicing. If your pup starts biting into your skin, give the leave it command, and reward when they stop. Practice makes perfect! For example, as you teach your pup the sit behavior you can help them understand yes and no. Over time trust me, it takes time , your pup will better start to understand the difference between yes and no. My wife and I raised two Yellow Labs that are about 7 months apart. And they were the first puppies we had raised as adults. So please, trust me when I tell you that getting frustrated will only make things worse. When you are frustrated, your pup likely is as well. And when puppies are frustrated, they won't learn! So, if you find a certain puppy behavior like biting or situation starting to overwhelm you… take a timeout. Let your pup cool down in their crate or sleep area and give yourself a few minutes to regroup. Guess what. So, do what you need to do for a personal break, and then recommit and get back at it! They have a keen sense of noticing our emotions. When frustration creeps in, learning stops for both human and dog. Redirecting to a game of tug of war can help teach your pup what is okay and not okay to chew on. As we mentioned before, puppies explore the world with their mouth, that is totally normal! Many pup parents have found it best to approach your pup with the toy in hand so you can be ready if the hand chomping starts happening. Teaching your dog tug can be a great way to stop puppy biting. Just remember, these behaviors can take significant practice and time to overcome. The question is, are you rewarding those positive behaviors and moments as you should be? If you are going through the process of overcoming puppy biting, you need to remember to praise the successful moments. When your pup comes up to you and lets you pet them without getting nippy, praise and reward them! Maybe you will see your puppy chewing a toy instead of your slippers or hand, reward them! If your puppy licks your hand instead of biting it, reward them! A huge part, and often underlooked, of training a puppy is to praise their successes. Treat each victory as a party and break out the fun, , and praise. Your job as a pup parent is to teach your dog what you want them to do. PS- If you're looking for a high-value reward treat for your pup, we've got your back! Check out our. Of course, you praise the positive moments but at times, you have to take away what your pup is desiring. In the instance of biting, pups are looking for playtime and engagement with us humans. Leave the room, put them in another room, or put them into a playpen for minutes. Implementing this method consistently will help your pup come to understand that when biting starts, playtime stops. A note on this, in most cases it is best to not use the crate as a negative reinforcer like a timeout. For example, when your pup starts nibbling, do your best to not jerk your hand away quickly. Most dogs love things that are moving! So if you jerk your hand or foot away, your pup may think you are trying to be playful. If your pup starts biting, let your hand go limp. Another way to make your skin a little less enticing is to keep them covered when possible. Being a successful pup parent oftentimes comes down to how well you can set your pup up for success. So if you know your pup is going through an extreme biting phase, consider keeping that skin covered when at home. It can be wearing socks, long sleeves and pants, and other things like that! When the puppy biting phase is at its worst, every little bit of help is important! Dogs are obviously very skilled at helping each other learn what is okay for play, and what is too aggressive. One quick note on socializing your puppy is that you should always be there to monitor them! Be active and aware and be ready to intervene if the play gets out of hand or aggressive. Some dogs have lower levels of patience with puppy biting, so be aware of how the other dogs are responding. Many pup parents find that the more they can correctly socialize their puppy, the milder the puppy biting will become. If you can effectively teach them a behavior that they can only do without biting then you'll be much closer to no biting! While there are plenty of alternative biting behaviors you can teach, here are some favorites:. By Chris Lab puppies are the definition of cuteness. But they are not always the angels they seem! What can you do when your Labrador puppy develops a biting habit? How to stop a Lab puppy from biting? These adorable little guys possess some not-so-good behaviors, especially during the first few months of their lives, a major one being biting. At first, it may seem cute, but it can be irksome, especially when your pup starts destroying things around your house or even begins biting you. Read on to learn some valuable tips on how to train your Labrador puppy to stop biting. What Causes Puppy Biting? Teething in puppies often starts when they are approximately three weeks old. By the time they are six weeks old, these little guys will have all 28 deciduous teeth. When your pup is around 12 weeks old, it will start shedding these teeth, paving the way for the permanent teeth to grow. You may notice these teeth around your home, but most likely, your furry little friend will swallow these teeth while eating. Your puppy tends to chew on everything because the teething process is quite uncomfortable and painful. That is why it will bite and nip on anything to try and relieve that pain. You may also notice your pet drooling excessively and not eating much during this phase. Even strong swimmers like Labs need a break every now and then Your Puppy Is Exploring Its Surrounding During the socialization stage which is from 4 to 12 weeks of age , puppies tend to bite and nip as a way of exploring their environment. At this stage, your pup will chew anything out of curiosity and to test its social boundaries. Separation Anxiety Puppies and older dogs who suffer from separation anxiety mostly exhibit destructive behaviors such as excessive biting. Separation anxiety is basically when your puppy becomes agitated, anxious, or depressed when you prepare to leave, or you have already left. Typically, puppies require between 16 to 18 hours of sleep every day. When they do not get enough sleep, they may begin exhibiting destructive behaviors such as excessive biting. Puppies who have the zoomies tend to show behaviors such as barking and biting excessively, running and spinning around, and so on. A lack of exercise is the leading cause of dog zoomies. These destructive behaviors are a way for your puppy to release that pent-up energy it has held in for quite some time. Here are a few ways on how to train your puppy to stop biting. Labradors are huge fans of babies as they age. Active families love a Lab! Try Bite Inhibition Bite inhibition is one of the most common methods puppy owners use to train their pups to stop biting. This is simply training it on how to control the force of its bites. Of course, you cannot entirely train a puppy to stop biting because it is part of how they socialize. Usually, puppies nip at each other while playing with their littermates or mothers. When your pup bites another puppy too hard, it will yelp, scaring your puppy enough to let go. You can take advantage of this behavior and teach your dog how much biting is acceptable. When it releases you, try ignoring it for approximately 10 to 20 minutes, then continue petting and playing with it. Another way to train your puppy to stop biting is by using positive punishment. Apart from yelping when it bites, you can also use a calm but firm voice to make it stop that behavior. Unlike humans, yelling at your puppy makes it more hyperactive and excited, making the habit even worse. When your puppy is biting excessively, you can gently place it in its cage for a couple of minutes until it calms down. However, it is essential to use this method sparingly to prevent your dog from developing negative responses. This may lead to your pup acting up when it sees someone walking towards it, which can be dangerous. It is also essential to reward your puppy when it calms down and stops biting, as it will help reinforce that positive behavior. If your pup tries biting your finger or hand, you can pull it away quickly before it does and provide a chewy toy for it to nip on instead. Do Labs like water? However, there are many things to consider when shopping for the ideal chew toy for your puppy. If you notice that your puppy shreds or destroys something it bites on within minutes, you should get a chew toy made of rubber or hard plastic. When choosing a chew toy for your furry little pal, make sure it is a good size for your puppy. Go for a toy that is not too big for your pup to carry and not too small that it can swallow and get lodged in its throat. It is also recommendable to get a treat-toy for your puppy. These toys allow you to stash some treats in them to elicit more interest. Such toys will help keep your puppy engaged enough to stop chewing on things around your home. Allow Your Puppy to Socialize With Other Puppies Arranging a playdate with other puppies is also a great way to train your puppy to stop biting. Like we mentioned earlier, puppies bite and nip at each other when playing. When one pup bites the other one too hard, it yelps, making the puppy stop nipping. This response helps your dog learn how much force of a bite is unacceptable. Is your dog a Prince or Princess? A Hero or a Pauper? Jasmine or Aladdin type? Would you give your puppy a Disney dog name? Conclusion While puppy biting is normal, it can become dangerous and uncomfortable as they grow older. 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. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. You turn your attention back to your computer screen and suddenly feel little teeth grabbing at your sock! You look down. Your once-angelic puppy is now having a full on game of tug-of-war with your pant leg! This cute baby is now more like a furry little monster. You get up and try to walk away, but the fur alligator is still attached, munching away at your trousers and having the best time! If this sounds like your life, read on to learn how to stop a puppy from biting. Why Do Puppies Bite? Believe it or not, this scenario is actually very common! Biting is one of the most natural things in the world to a young pup; and they do it for many reasons. You would be left with your feet and mouth to interact, taste and feel your environment. Now, what if you had puppy paws — incapable of grasping anything? That leaves you with one final way to interact — your mouth. For good measure, add in the incredible curiosity of a child. How many times do you see a baby grab things with their hands and pop them into the mouth? Puppies have that same mindset. Your mouth strength and play bite helped you communicate and determine your rank in society. Your mouthy mojo gave you respect in canine culture. Puppies interact with their surroundings largely through their mouths. Labradors, like most sporting breeds, have the drive to chase after prey, put it in their mouths, and bring it back to you. This translates into a strong need to chew. They will try this same tactic with their human pack members. If ignored, one bite on the toe is often enough to get the focus back on them. Remember, to a puppy even negative attention is still attention. Terrible Teething When you add teething into the mix, you have the recipe for a furry gator. Most pups will have an increased need to chew while teething , which can begin at 6 weeks and last to 8 months of age. Unlike teething, there is no magical age that puppies grow out of a learned mouthing behavior. Thankfully, with positive training, most dogs eventually lose interest in chewing on their owners. Types of Biting: Aggression or Play? Puppies use their teeth in many ways. However, this is actually just very intense play. Play biting can be accompanied with growling and snarling. This is just part of the fun to a young pup. Instead, we will look into how we can prevent playful mouthing. However, it is important to recognize the signs of aggression. Pay attention to the timing of the biting as well. If so, the motive behind the bite may be more aggressive. Could it be Resource Guarding? Some dogs also aggressively bite when they are guarding a toy or food item, commonly called resource guarding. With resource guarding, you will see the same behavior as aggressive biting, but they will also stand over an object and defend it from any perceived threat. If you think your puppy is behaving aggressively, seek professional help to learn how to actively manage this issue. In contrast to this, playing puppies will be relaxed and have a wiggly body. They will be bouncy, easily roll onto their backs and often be panting with open mouths. Even if they are growling, a relaxed face and body mean a happy puppy. What Can Trigger Biting? Do you really want your pound Labrador to target your hands as a toy later? Children Little kids tend to excite puppies more than adults. Children move erratically, run around, make strange sounds and have a lot more energy. Puppies can easily associate them with toys. Ankle Biters Puppies target fast moving objects that excite their prey drive. Your feet moving by at their eye level can be irresistible. After all, what self-respecting puppy would snub shoes with those floppy laces that are perfect for playing tug? How do we do this? Redirection with Hands When training your puppy, always have a toy to offer. Remember, puppies are like babies. Your job is to redirect them to fun toys instead of human skin. You must do everything possible to make toys extremely attractive so the puppy chooses them over your clothing, hands or feet. Redirection with Kids You can also use redirection around children. First, teach your puppy to use interactive toys and then show your child how to play with the puppy correctly. In the event that your dog forgets, teach your kids to be a tree when their puppy begins to bite them or their clothes. This position makes them less interactive to the puppy. They look boring and the puppy will lose interest. Most bites occur because the child is running or moving erratically. Remember, dogs have the same prey triggers as wolves. If something is running away, it looks like prey. Your job, therefore, is to have an even more amazing toy than your feet. You can take a toy, tie it to a rope, and then tie the rope to your belt so that you are dragging the toy whenever your pup is out. If your puppy is coming for your feet, stop moving them and wave the toy around excitedly instead. Once the pup is attached to the toy, you can start walking again. This way, they will pounce on the toy instead of you! Bite inhibition simply means that the puppy learns not to apply too much force behind their teeth. They apply gentle, but firm, pressure to their greeting. Puppies also learn to limit this pressure with their mouths by feedback from pack members. When puppies are little, they learn bite inhibition through play with their siblings. If two pups are tussling, and one bites down too hard, the other puppy yelps loudly. This startling sound usually causes the offending party to let go. The play stops for a few minutes, as the first pup nurses his wounded ego. Play then resumes, but with less brutality. Instead, let the puppy release your hand and then simply get up and and move away from your pup while ignoring them. Your job is to teach them when they bite down on you, the fun stops. Ignore them for about a minute, then return and resume the play and praise them when they focus on the toy. If they bite you too hard again, repeat this process. You can either step over a puppy barrier or go into another room and shut the door. Just make sure they are in a puppy-proof area, as they may take out their frustration on inappropriate household items. You can also keep the puppy on a leash while playing with them. If they bite you, you can calmly tether them to something and then walk out of their reach. Your goal is to correct the puppy only by taking away your fun presence. You should not be threatening or angry. Give them the appropriate time out from the fun interaction to settle down, and then come back with a toy to redirect their energy. Once they understand they have to be gentle, you can then start to ask more of them by ending the game with lighter and lighter pressure on your skin. Finally, you can take the game to the highest standard — no teeth on human skin at all. If you slowly progress to this over weeks, you teach your pup to have a soft mouth. If they do feel the need to put their teeth on a human, they know not to put much pressure into their bite. You need to teach your puppy that human skin is fragile and requires a softer touch than a canine interaction. Your goal for this exercise should be to help your puppy understand that the play and fun things continue as long as they keep their teeth on their toy and not on you! More Ways to Stop Your Puppy Biting While the yelp and time-out method works for most pups, there are additional ways to reinforce good behavior. When your puppy bites your hand, they get a terrible taste. You can use anti-chewing sprays like Bitter Apple to make your hands less appealing. When your puppy bites you, be still and wait for them to react to the bitter taste. When they let go, praise them and redirect them onto a treat or toy. You want the crate to always be associated with only good things. Crates also should be in the middle of the household, with the rest of the pack — not isolated. This is the same way other canine pack members would isolate them. A laundry room or puppy pen works well for this exercise. Make sure the room is comfortable and safe for your puppy. When the puppy is too stimulated, calmly put him in the room with some teething toys and leave. Teaching them interactive games like fetch or bringing you a toy to tug helps show them that they can have even more fun when they play by your rules. Positive play helps develop a bond with your dog. You never want to avoid it, you just want to show them how to play without biting you. Teaching puppies to retrieve objects helps to tire them out, gives them something positive to chase, and focuses their bite on an appropriate item. Plus, most Labradors are pretty good at retrieving! Remember, anytime we ask a puppy to stop a behavior, it should be because they are rewarded in an even more exciting and positive way for doing something else and things our way. The following video shows how. Video: How to Stop a Puppy from Biting This video shows how to use clicker training to stimulate a puppy in situations where they normally would bite; and then reward them when they choose a closed mouth and calm interaction. Dominant Puppies Dogs are individuals. However, as puppies mature, there may be the rare pup that uses biting as a way to take charge. Dominant puppies may bite to show you that they want to be the boss as they mature. This happens naturally among littermates, as all packs have a pecking order. This reinforces to them that you are backing down and that they are the leader in the relationship. Always remain calm and assertive with your puppy, but end the game as soon as they begin vying for leadership instead of playing. Remember, the alternative to not training your dog is a large animal putting his mouth on people. Be patient with your puppy. Remember, mouthing and biting are normal parts of canine culture. If you stay patiently positive, train consistently, and redirect and reward good behavior, you will soon see a puppy that learns to bring you a tug toy instead of shredding your trousers. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative to seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. Lab puppies are incredibly cute, but their teeth really hurt when they are puncturing your skin every time you try to play. No one likes to be bitten, so how can you get a lab puppy to stop biting? The best way to stop a Lab puppy from biting is through a combination of proper exercise, training, redirection, and the use of positive affirmation. Most owners attempt at least one of these methods, but it is the combination and use of all of them that will effectively curb unwanted biting. Keep in mind that before you can stop it effectively, you should know why Labrador puppies bite so much. Additionally, know when they tend to naturally stop biting. Only then can you effectively begin to work on preventing them from biting. Lab puppies use their mouths to explore their environment and gather important information. When puppies are growing their adult teeth, they will often chew to soothe the ache along their gums. Labs may also bite to play or out of fear and aggression. Biting for Sensory Information When a puppy bites something, they learn how hard they can bite it, what it tastes like, how it feels, and if they can bite it again. All of this information is stored in a mental catalog your dog looks back on when encountering a similar object. This learning process is very important for puppies to become well-socialized dogs. When a puppy bites another puppy too hard they will lose their playmate. Biting too hard can have negative repercussions! Biting for sensory information is a totally normal behavior for puppies and even adult dogs. Since they don't have hands to explore with, their mouths are the only option. However, if you don't want your dog's mouth on you or your belongings, there are ways to stop this biting but we'll get to that later! Biting for Teething As your Lab matures, their mouths will start to change. Once their adult teeth begin to push up through their gums, the teeth they were born with begin to fall out one by one. It is the same process humans go through when their baby teeth come in and are later replaced with adult teeth. Just like with humans, this process is somewhat painful and incredibly uncomfortable. To help quicken the process, puppies will chew on things to wear down the gum between the new tooth and their mouth. This practice is also very soothing for puppies, especially if they chew on something cold. Biting for Play vs Biting for Aggression In the wild, dogs and wolves play by wrestling around and biting one another. Since your dog sees you as a member of its pack, they will try to play with you in a similar way. Of course, this biting still isn't ideal, but it's important to know the difference between play and real aggression. When a dog bites out of aggression, it is because they are scared, or you are asking them to do something they really don't want to do. Biting out of aggression is important to watch and fix at a young age so you don't end up with an aggressive dog. The most significant indicator of aggressive biting is body language. When a puppy is being playful, their body and facial muscles are relaxed. When a puppy is biting out of aggression, their body will be stiff or frozen, their face will have a lot of tension in it, and their lips may be pulled back in a snarl or growl. If you are seeing a lot of aggression in your puppy, you should contact your Veterinarian to make sure they are not in pain. When a dog suddenly becomes aggressive, they may have an unseen condition that is causing them to lash out. If you get a clear bill of health, you should seek the help of a professional trainer to help you. As we said earlier, as your Labrador matures, they will start to develop adult teeth. This change usually occurs around 12 to 16 weeks of age; the process will reach its end at about 7 months. Therefore, if your Lab is biting to soothe its gums, then the biting should end around the same time their teeth have fully grown in. If your puppy is biting for sensory information and play, it will lessen as your Lab matures and begins to slow down. While there is no magic number that says when your Lab will calm down , it usually happens between the ages of 2 and 4. First, don't hit your puppy as punishment. They aren't doing anything wrong in their mind because biting is natural. You also can't decide when it is and isn't okay to bite. Doing so can cause great confusion. When trying to prevent your Lab from biting, a few tips can help you. Exercise, training, redirecting, and positive affirmations are your secret weapons against those adorable, tiny, sharp teeth. Exercise Exercising your Lab daily will cause them to be too exhausted to do anything but sleep, let alone bite you. You can exercise your Lab by playing fetch, going on walks, or using enrichment toys. Training First, I recommend formal fundamental training before attempting anything specialized. Training your Lab not to bite sounds complicated, but it can be as easy as slapping some butter and seasoning on. If your Lab is biting YOU, put some butter on your arms and clothes wear they like to bite you. Show the butter to your Lab, and when they lick at it, say "yes, kisses, yes. This associates the word "kisses" with the act of licking and the yummy taste your dog gets. The next time your Lab tries to bite you, say "kisses," they should start to lick you instead as they try for the yummy taste. If your Lab is biting furniture or shoes, there is another approach. Grab a spicy seasoning, like paprika or taco seasoning, and sprinkle it on the places your Lab chews. Then, the next time they go to chew it, they will get a nasty taste in their mouth and leave the thing alone! Redirecting Redirecting your dog to things they are allowed to chew on when playing is another way to avoid being bitten. Have some good chew toys handy whenever you are playing with your Lab. When your Lab starts to bite you, show them a chew toy and try directing the bite towards it. After a while, your puppy should go after its toys instead of you. This type of training takes time , but is proven to be very effective. Positive Affirmation When your dog does what you want, whether it's licking or going for a proper toy, make sure you give them lots of praise. Tell them how good they are and even provide them with a treat or two! Final Thoughts Biting is a natural part of a Lab's life, but it is crucial to decipher playful nips and aggressive ones. Playful body language is loose and relaxed Aggressive body language is stiff and snarling If you are seeing a lot of aggressive body language in your Lab, make sure they are healthy and contact a trainer A Lab will probably stop biting after they stop teething If your Lab doesn't stop biting after teething, they should stop upon reaching maturity between 2 and 4 years of age Exercise, training, redirecting, and positive affirmation are the best ways to stop biting NEVER hit your dog to stop biting. Print How to stop your puppy from biting your hands and feet — fast! Have you ever watched a litter of retriever puppies play with each other? They are all mouths and feet as they growl, bite and paw at each other. Over time, if left to it, each pup will naturally figure out their place in the pack. However, when you bring your Lab puppy home there are no longer littermates with whom to tussle. And the result is often that your Lab puppy will start biting and growling at you! The problem is that puppy teeth are sharp. Very sharp! And when your puppy bites you, even if they are playing, it hurts. So, what can you do to stop this behavior before it gets out of hand and you find yourself or someone in your family injured by your puppy? Before I go any further, I want to be clear about what we are talking about. You should seek professional help and evaluation. Why puppies bite and growl Puppy play is a kind of training for a dog as they grow and mature. It is also a way that dogs determine rank within a group. Remember, dogs are pack animals. In a pack there is only one Alpha lead dog. Every other dog is under the authority and control of that dog. No two dogs share the same rank. So, while biting and growling starts as play, it does not stay that way. All dogs, whether in a group of dogs or a human family, want to understand their place in the family. They need to know their place. It helps they be more mentally balanced and will help solve a multitude of behavioral problems. Once a puppy or dog understands where they rank in the pack, they often assume that place, at least for a while. Remember, they are dogs. They are not robots so occasionally they may challenge their position, but if the boundary remains clear, the challenge is short lived. Biting, nipping and playful growling at a human can become a challenge of dominance. If your puppy is young, you can quickly and easily end this behavior by establishing boundaries and consistently enforcing these boundaries each and every time your puppy shows this type of behavior. If you have let this behavior go on for a while, you may be in for quite a fight to take back your authority. Biting is not the same as chewing A puppy biting your hand or feet is not the same as a puppy chewing on a shoe, toy or other item. All puppies have a need to chew. As their puppy teeth grow and their adult teeth come in, it is common for dogs to chew on things to relieve the pain and help the new teeth to come in. This should not be discouraged, but rather encouraged on an appropriate item like a chew toy, nylabone or rawhide. And if this works, this is an appropriate solution. Instead, it is likely an issue of dominance. How to stop puppy from biting you Biting is just one puppy dominance behavior. There are many others such as jumping on you, putting a paw on your feet, and lifting and placing paws on your arms or legs. The behaviors I have listed are often gateway behaviors that escalate into more aggressive or troublesome behaviors like stealing food off your plate or the counter, pushing you out of the way when going through doors and pulling you around on a lead. Start by establishing firm boundaries The first step to stopping your puppy from biting or mouthing you is to set up firm boundaries for your puppy. You can set these up for not only biting but for all dominance behaviors. So, what is a boundary? Well, here are some examples. Some people we have worked with are okay with their puppy mouthing their hand as long as there is no tooth pressure. If you feel the same way, then make that a boundary. But if there is any tooth pressure, a swift and consistent correction will follow. This boundary is stronger and does not give the dog any room for confusion. In fact, they often will understand what your boundaries are but will test that standard against everyone else in the family. Each person needs to set and enforce boundaries. React with firm consistent corrections After you establish the boundary, you now need to react every time your puppy or dog crosses that boundary. Each and every time! There can be no room for confusion. Your corrections must be swift and consistent. Not all dogs react to the same level of pressure. For some dogs, this squeeze and strong words will be all it takes to stop the behavior. Especially if you are consistent in your correction. But some dogs have a stronger or more challenging personality. This will give your puppy a taste of his own medicine since his puppy teeth are sharp and will pinch into his lips or flews. You must be consistent. How long will it take to stop my puppy from biting me? If you are firm and consistent, the behavior should stop for the most part in a day or two. Some dogs require more pressure, some less. Your puppy should feel some discomfort. That is okay. The point is to show your puppy that biting hurts and that it is not an acceptable behavior. When nothing seems to work If you puppy is a bit older and has been getting away with biting and mouthing you for a while, you may struggle to end this behavior. Often the problem is a strong dominance issue that needs to be addressed. If your puppy continues to snap or bite at you even after a correction, you likely need to exert some dominance over your puppy. This is similar to what a mommy dog does to a puppy that is not behaving. Humans can do the same thing to show dominance over a rebellious puppy. I know, it sound a bit ridiculous but it really does work. Instead, remain calm and patient. Stay in control. Reacting with emotion can lead to strong reactions or punishment that you will later regret. The point is to show your dog that you are the Alpha in the relationship, and you can and will determine what behavior is acceptable. Biting is not love As a professional dog trainer, I am always surprised at what some of clients consider appropriate behavior. Some owners feel that setting boundaries and enforcing those boundaries means that you do not love your dog. That you need to accept all dog behaviors otherwise you do not love your dog. This is a false and faulty mindset. We have seen clients who have been injured by their dog multiple times and they still refuse to take steps to end the behavior. That is not love. What if the next person that dog bites is a child? Would you be able to live with that? A dog that is allowed to continue harming humans is only one bite away from having to be put down. It may sound harsh, but it is the sad truth. Some people may argue that the dog is unable to understand what they are doing is wrong. This is not based on reality. Dogs are very smart. They can learn to do amazing things and become incredible hunting partners and family companions. But they rarely achieve this potential without an owner who cares enough to set boundaries and enforce them. Final thoughts on how to stop my puppy biting me all the time You can stop your puppy from biting you and others if you are willing to take the steps necessary to make your dog understand that biting is not an acceptable behavior. A firm consistent correction each and every time your puppy bites will quickly teach your puppy to stop biting. These corrections will not harm your relationship with your puppy, but will, in fact, enhance it. Your puppy will quickly learn where the boundaries are and how to operate within those boundaries. We see it time and again, once a puppy is taught that there are boundaries, they quickly adjust and become wonderful loving and obedient family members. Help, my Lab puppy keeps biting me! Calm puppy behavior. Conflicting advice on how to stop your pup biting Many articles will tell you to ignore a puppy when he bites and to offer him a toy instead. Some people will tell you to punish your biting puppy. Others will tell you that you must not stop your puppy biting too suddenly, or punish him for biting, for fear of drastic consequences later. So who is right, and who is wrong? Does ignoring stop your puppy biting? Many new puppy owners try to ignore the biting puppy initially. This failure tends to be for one or more of the following reasons. Does noise stop puppy biting? There is no doubt that a sufficiently loud squeal, followed by immediate withdrawal of attention, will cause many Labrador puppies to break off from biting. Sometimes long enough for a skilled owner to then redirect the puppy into a more appropriate activity. There is also no doubt that for some puppies, this has the reverse effect, and causes them to bite harder and more fiercely. A puppy that has spent sufficient time with his Mum, may be more likely to take heed of this verbal warning, as he will expect it to be followed by a sharp click of her teeth and a fiercer rebuke if he ignores her. But there are no guarantees here. And the fact is, squealing simply does not work as an effective anti-biting strategy, for some puppies. Punishing the puppy to stop biting I have heard, even quite experienced, breeders tell new puppy owners to punish their puppy if he bites. Either by intimidating the puppy with an angry growling voice, or even with physical punishment such as a scruff shake or slap. But there are problems with this approach. This process is called bite inhibition. And the use of punishment may curtail all biting rather than just the hardest, most painful, bites. Nowadays many people like to train dogs without punishment. And there are strong reasons for joining them — check out this article — the downside of punishing dogs. Teaching puppy to stop biting Why would we want to teach dogs to bite humans gently? Why is it not best to teach them not to bite at all, right from the start? The idea of reducing biting gradually was popularised by Ian Dunbar. The theory is that a dog which learns to inhibit his bite i. You can read more about bite inhibition here: Labrador Puppies Biting. The concept is a sound one, and most canine behaviorists agree that teaching gradual bite inhibition is a good thing. The problem for many new puppy owners, is stopping those painful bites in the first place! The first step is not a technique at all, but an adjustment in the expectations that we have of a small puppy How much do Lab puppies bite? New puppy owners tend to have false expectations of puppies. They also anticipate that stopping a puppy from biting will be a fairly quick and simple matter. None of these expectations is true. Most puppies bite hard, frequently and growl fiercely whilst they are doing it. This noise is not a sign of aggression see Help my puppy is aggressive. Stopping a puppy from biting is a process, a journey. And it can be temporarily an uncomfortable one! It is important to accept that there is no guaranteed way of stopping biting immediately. Indeed, as we have seen, bite prevention rather than inhibition may be a bad thing in any case. Supervise your puppy around children Once you have got your head around the fact that this process will take some time, that it will be a gradual thing, you need to think about how you are going to protect any children that might come into contact with the puppy. This is important because small children can, both hurt and, be hurt by small biting puppies. Calm your puppy to stop him biting The next priority is to keep your puppy calm. Overexcited puppies bite harder and more frequently than less excited puppies. This will merely start the biting up all over again. There are lots of ways to interact with puppies without physically playing with them. Check out our article on playing safely with your dog. What to do when a puppy bites When your puppy bites you really hard, take immediate action. Stand up, move away from him and completely withdraw your attention. You can try the squeal thing if you want to. This works well with some puppies. Be ready for it, and repeat your actions. If the puppy chases after you, biting at your legs and feet, step over a baby gate, or pop him in his crate for a few minutes. You can read up on this process in more detail in this article: How to cope with biting. Remember, puppies enjoy chewing , and teething puppies need to chew on something. Whilst you and your clothing are not suitable chew toys, you need to provide your puppy with alternatives, like Kong toys. How to stop your puppy biting Biting is normal Biting should be inhibited in stages Training takes time The key points to take away from this are that biting is normal, and that training a puppy not to bite takes time. Stop the painful bites first, then work on putting a stop to mouthing. If what you are doing is not working, you probably just need to be more patient and persistent. If your children are suffering, you need to separate and supervise. Work hard on keeping your puppy calm — it makes the biggest difference.

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To help you out with your search for this hybrid pooch, we have gathered the best resources to find breeders and rescues in the United States. Here are some of the places where you can find a Saint Shepherd puppy available for sale: Greenfield Puppies — This is a website that can help you look for a Saint Shepherd puppy within your area. Lancaster Puppies — This is another pet advertising website that offers mixes such as the Saint Bernard German Shepherd mix for sale. All puppies sold within Pennsylvania are entitled to a day health guarantee covered by the Dog Purchaser Protection Act. Keystone Puppies — Another trusted source of mixed puppies is Keystone Puppies. They work with reputable breeders who prioritize the health and temperament of their pups. When you buy a Saint Shepherd from this platform, you can enjoy the benefits of a health and socialization guarantee. Some breeders also offer this mix for sale along with their purebred puppies. Check out our list of Saint Bernard breeders and best German Shepherd breeders for more options. Rescued dogs go through vet examinations before being available for adoption, so you can be sure that you can find a healthy pup. After their careful screening process is done, dogs are matched with the families that best suit them. They have a list of available dogs that you can check out to see if they have any Saint Shepherd mixes. Sunny Saints St. Bernard Rescue — This is a rescue based in Southern California that provides the needed medical care and affection to abandoned and neglected Saint Bernards and its mixes. All of their adoptable dogs are placed in foster homes. Adopt-a-Pet — There are thousands of dogs waiting for a forever home in this online pet database. With this, you can easily find a Saint Shepherd to take home. To help you out in choosing a puppy safely, feel free to check out our ultimate dog adoption guide. This will help you learn the common guidelines and requirements of rescue shelters. There are also some tips to pass the adoption application. They are especially gentle with children and are also known to be tolerant of other pets. Great guard dogs: Thanks to its German Shepherd genes, the St. Bernard German Shepherd mix possesses the protective instincts that make it suitable as a guard dog. As a giant breed, this designer dog can easily intimidate intruders. They work especially well with training that uses positive reinforcement. This is a trait that they can inherit from their St. Bernard parent. Therefore, early training and socialization should be prioritized. Shedding is especially a difficult problem for people with dog allergies. Unmanageable size: Due to its large size, owning a Saint Shepherd will cost you more compared to owning a small or medium-sized dog. Not everyone has the budget to cover the annual costs of a St. Bernard German Shepherd mix. This might lead to behavioral issues and can also make the dog physically difficult to handle. With this list, you can weigh the pros and cons of owning a St. Bernard German Shepherd mix and decide if it is the right dog for you. The idea behind the breed was to take the mass that St. The result is a physically imposing dog who may hide behind you in times of trouble. Bernard German Shepherd Mixes are big, though, and that extends to their personalities. If you have the room for them, Saint Shepherds will quickly steal your heart. The St. Bernard German Shepherd Mix relies mostly on their size to intimidate evildoers, as they generally prefer cuddling family members to disemboweling strangers. Still, it would take a brave thief indeed to continue breaking into your house after they saw one of these lumber out of the bedroom. Bernard is… not. However, those big pups make up for lack of intelligence by doubling down on stubbornness. Luckily, Saint Shepherds are smarter than they are bull-headed, but you still need to be firm and consistent while training. This can become a problem if they do bark for no reason , though, which is another reason why being diligent about their training is a must. Their brains allow them to pick up new commands quickly, and they love to please, so frequent training sessions are highly recommended. Bernard German Shepherd Mix listens to your instructions, because this is not a breed that you can simply overpower. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Bernards are known to be loving toward most animals, though. Luckily, early reports indicate that Saint Shepherds tend to take after St. Bernards rather than German Shepherds. They seem to be accepting of other animals and see them as potential playmates rather than rivals. A post shared by Waylon the Saint Shepherd wagging. Expect to spend a small fortune feeding these animals, as they have equally big appetites. These pooches are prone to obesity, so you need to be careful to offer them a healthy diet and not to overfeed them. We recommend a high-protein diet with minimal treats or scraps. You should vary how much you feed them depending on how active they are, as there tends to be a wide disparity between individual energy levels in this breed. These dogs are happy lounging around on the couch watching TV, but they also love to get out and run around at the park. We urge you not to be complacent with your dog, though, because these animals need a great deal of exercise to stave off obesity. Plus, their super-sharp minds long for mental stimulation, so a long walk, vigorous training regimen, agility training, or all of the above would be welcomed. Bernard German Shepherd Mix enough stimulation, they can become destructive, and you can only imagine the kind of damage they can do. If a Saint Bernard Mix takes after their Saint Bernard parent, they grow into a large, friendly, and gentle dog that loves nothing more than being around their favorite humans. Saint Bernards are known for being gentle giants. They tend to be friendly, playful, and affectionate and get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. As long as they have been well-socialized, they are also open and friendly to meeting strangers. If the other parent breed is similar, then you can expect a similar temperament from a Saint Bernard Mix. You do still want to talk to the breeder to make sure you are aware of any potential quirks the other parent breed could introduce. You can also meet the mother in person to see what her temperament is like and the type of behavior she is modeling for her puppies. The breeder should have started some socialization and training, but it is up to you to continue those things once you bring a puppy home. A Saint Bernard is a moderately adaptable dog. They tend to be better suited for larger homes that have enough space for them. They can adapt to apartment living, but their size is an obstacle in smaller spaces. They are a cold-weather breed that can do well in a variety of climates, but not necessarily tropical or hot climates. They also do not like to spend a lot of time alone. If the other parent breed does not introduce any traits that could affect adaptability, then you can expect a Saint Bernard Mix to be moderately adaptable as well. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies, so make sure you are asking about the health of the parents. From the Saint Bernard side, potential health concerns to be aware of in a Saint Bernard Mix include eye disease, elbow dysplasia , and hip dysplasia. As a large dog breed, they are also at a higher risk of bloat. Knowing how to reduce the risk of bloat in dogs and what symptoms to look for can make sure you are able to get help if you need it. Although they grow into a giant dog, the Saint Bernard is a good fit for owners of all experience levels. They are intelligent and eager to please. If the other parent breed is also easy to train and a good fit for novice owners, then you can expect the same from a Saint Bernard Mix. There are several benefits of puppy training classes outside of training, so they tend to be a good idea regardless. A Saint Bernard Mix can inherit a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is a combination of both of them. The Saint Bernard coat has two varieties — long and short. No matter which coat type, the care is the same. If a Saint Bernard Mix inherits the Saint Bernard coat, they will shed moderately year-round with heavier seasonal shedding. Weekly brushing and the occasional bath are the minimum; daily brushing is recommended during seasonal shedding events. Nail trims once or twice a month keep them from growing too long. Ear checks weekly with careful ear cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Daily dental care with dog-friendly toothpaste helps prevent dental diseases later in life. The Saint Bernard may be a large working dog, but they are not high-energy. They sit in a more moderate range. Daily walks plus some playtime are usually enough to keep them happy. Because they are happy to spend time with you, they will likely be up for more activity if you are. If the other parent breed also sits in a moderate range, then you can expect the same from a Saint Bernard Mix. If they are lower or higher energy, then you will need to be prepared for a mix to be somewhere in that potential range. Fully-grown Saint Bernards usually stand inches tall at the shoulder and weigh pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother. A Saint Bernard generally lives for years on average. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar average life span from a Saint Bernard Mix. Featured Saint Bernard Mix Article. German Shepherd St. Bernard German Shepherd Mix is a combination of two large breeds of dogs, the loving giant St. Bernard and German Shepherds. This means they are strong but not too aggressive to intimidate any stranger while being cuddly companions with you and your family. They also need plenty of time for grooming so prepare accordingly because these guys have lots of fur in their home country from where we got them. They are naturally fur-ocious so expect them everywhere in your home including on furniture or clothing. Make sure to give these big personalities all day attention while setting aside plenty of time each week to dedicate just as much care to grooming. This dog needs lots of love and cuddles to make them feel safe and secure. This huge breed will intimidate any unknown person while being cuddly with you and your family. But be prepared for some fur rolls around though: between all those energetic play sessions outside where he gets plenty of space. This large, white canine can weigh up to pounds more than the standard breed and come equipped with unmatched energy that translates into years of companionship for its human counterpart. The St. Bernard German Shepherd Mix is a large-sized, friendly dog with thick fur and big paws that can be found in all sorts of climates. The Saint Shepherd is a great choice for parents with children. Bernard German Shepherd Mix are sweet and trustworthy around kids, so you can feel confident knowing them near your little ones. When humans are home and one of their pets is outside, it can be hard for them to come back in without worrying that something might happen. The adorable pups might not leave your heart once they get a hold of it. Dress information: Large Sized. Color: Brown, Sable and Black. Names: St. Suitable for Family: Yes, but also an eye should be kept on them as they are large sized so that there could be no problem in any aspect. Best Use: An experienced owner is recommended to pet this breed, who is well trained to keep massive size dogs. Bernard German Shepherd Mix are a rare find breed and offer you the best of both worlds with their mixed characteristics. With this pet, no one can match its uniqueness. They are great for those who want something uncommon in life. Bernard GSD mix dog is not just a bigger version of your average house pet. A lot goes into making up their personality and size can play an important part in how they behave. For example while smaller breeds may be more laid back due to living spaces being less overwhelming — one downside could also come from having such a limited room where you need everything close at hand so when it comes down. Bernard German Shepherd Mix is an unusual looking dog with a long coat and straight ears, which makes them stand out from other dogs. Their head has large wrinkles on it that make the eye seem to be smiling or laughing; this also gives their face some white in between brown fur for contrast. The Saint Shepherd is a unique dog with an unusual combination of colors. They have long, thick fur that covers most areas on their body except for the face and tail which are usually white or mostly brown in coloration patterns while black hairs can also be found throughout these parts too. Bernard German Shepherd Mix is a medium to large, muscular dog with an acute sense of smell. It may get up to pounds and has oval shaped eyes that are typically brown in coloration but can also be any other shade from blue-eyed white blondes all the way down through darker shades like chocolate or green-hazelnut buttercream frosting. They have thick muscles in their body as well as strong legs for standing on two feet or four paws all day long—and toes that are arched when running due to their sharp heel spur marks on each foot. Coat: The St. Be prepared to pick up lots of hair when walking through an area filled with these dogs—the more proactive you are about maintenance, then better your chances will be at keeping things under control? It would help too if people were cautious around warm temperatures during summertime because not only does it seem like those shorter months make them grumpier than usual but heat radiates off their bodies easily Strength: St. Bernard German Shepherd Mix are one of the most loving and loyal dogs you can find. Speed: St. Bernard German Shepherd Mix are the perfect family dog. History Of St. Bernard German Shepherd Mix has a long and interesting history. The first known example of this breed was in the early s when it originated from Germany, Switzerland with roots that date back to World War I. These gentle dogs have been paired together by nature — their intelligent minds plus protective instincts makes them a perfect pet to take on any adventure life may dish out at you. Legend has it that their name comes from founder, St. Bernard de Menthon and they were used as messenger dogs for travelers through dangerous mountain regions near Italy or Switzerland during medieval times because these pups could travel great distances with little food or water while being treated like royalty by those who saw them pass by on the road. The most amazing thing about these dogs was their ability to smell a person buried underneath the snow. The team of these dogs worked in tandem, with one dog staying by their side while another went off for help if needed — or just rested up during these tough times. Bernard German Shepherd Mix mountain dog is a gentle giant who was bred as both an agricultural and herding breed. They were developed in Switzerland, where they still keep watch over travelers from cold withstanding temperatures. Characteristics Of Saint Bernard German Shepherd Mix: The German shepherd St bernard mix is a breed that has been known for its brilliance, fast learning capabilities and great caretaker dog instincts. Adaption Qualities. Bernard German Shepherd mix can be anywhere from 22 to 30 inches tall and can weigh anywhere from 65 to pounds. Very likely, these mutts will be at the larger end of the average GSD or the smaller end of the typical Saint Bernard. The color and markings of their cross could go both ways. Often, they will be black, brown, pied, or sable. No matter the appearance, the pups will surely have medium-to-long straight and dense hair. They are also expected to have thick undercoats. Grooming The St. Bernard German Shepherd mix will require frequent brushing —at least once a week—if you want to keep the fur around your home at a minimum. Additionally, these dogs will blow off their coats twice a year, which will require even more frequent brushing with tools especially made for heavy shedders. Ideally, that would involve daily brushing using a de-shedding tool and a slicker brush. As with any other dog, this mixed breed should have their teeth brushed and nails trimmed regularly. Although they are not typically prone to ear infections, it helps to keep their ears clean and dry, especially if they have floppy ears like their St. Bernard parent. Strength The German Shepherd is known as a strong breed with a remarkable bite force and impressive pulling strength. As for the Saint Bernard, their large size and thickset bodies are a clue to their power. The St. Bernard German Shepherd mix is expected to be a tough dog with the strength required to fulfill a wide variety of roles as a working breed. Speed GSDs can run pretty fast at speeds of approximately 30 miles per hour. In contrast, the large and heavy bodies of St. Bernards keep them from being fast and agile dogs. Nevertheless, the German Shepherd-St. Bernard mix is expected to have the energy levels, stamina, and athletic ability of both their parents. Since they are working breeds, they need both physical and mental stimulation to avoid destructive behaviors. Bernard German Shepherd mix will likely need a one-hour walk or 30 minutes of intensive play per day, at the minimum. They will also need to be mentally stimulated with activities like training and brain and puzzle toys games. Trainability The German Shepherd is known as the third most intelligent working dog breeds in the world. It belongs to the top tier in the canine intelligence ranking. At this level, it takes only 5 exposures for them to learn something new. At this level, it takes up to 80 repetitions for them to learn a new command. The GSD-St. Nevertheless, they are expected to have an excellent work ethic when properly trained for a specific function and will be very easy to train. These dogs are also more sociable than German Shepherd, who tend to prefer the sole company of their own family. However, GSDs are much more trainable and have superior protective instincts. Given the temperaments of both parents, the Saint Shepherd will ideally have a good balance of intelligence, drive, and playfulness. They are also expected to be loyal, protective of their home and family, and incredibly affectionate. These dogs can be incredibly good family dogs as long as their humans invest time and effort in their training. They need to be trained in obedience and also socialized in different settings at a young age. With proper socialization, they coexist peacefully with other animals and even young kids. Health As large, deep-chested dogs, both the German Shepherd and the St. Bernard are prone to bloat. This painful condition occurs when the stomach expands dangerously due to excessive gas, fluids, or food. Since both parents are predisposed to this condition, it is something that owners of Saint Shepherds should watch out for. Bernard-German Shepherd cross might also be prone to bone and joint conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia, as are most large dogs. Both parents should also be screened for degenerative myelopathy , which is a condition that causes the progressive deterioration of the spinal cord. Bernard cross, however. All breeds have genetic predispositions. Being aware of them enables you to avoid them and also know when to seek medical help. Lifespan The average Saint Bernard lives between 8 and 10 years while German Shepherds commonly live from 12 to 14 years old. Knowing this, it is reasonable to believe that the GSD-Saint Bernard cross could live for approximately 10 to 12 years. Recorded average lifespans per breed give you a good idea of how long your own pup might live. A lot depends on their environment, nutrition, and health maintenance. Bernard Mix. Through the AKC Canine Partners program, hybrids and crosses are able to participate in various dog sports. This program includes some of the most popular canine sports like Rally, Agility , and Scent Work. How Popular is the St. Bernard German Shepherd Mix? Saint Bernard-German Shepherd crosses are not very popular. They are difficult to find because their parents have more value as purebreds, so breeders are not motivated to mix them together or even with other breeds. Nevertheless, you might still find breeders that cross GSDs and Saints on purpose. Such puppies will definitely be more expensive than those from unplanned litters, especially because the parents would have been selected for specific traits. Bernard cross can be a delight to own. Although their size and grooming requirements might be challenging, its likely affectionate nature and eagerness to please should be incredibly rewarding. Can weigh up to pounds with a large head, floppy ears, dark brown eyes, and a short to medium muzzle with a black nose. They have thick muscular bodies, straighter backs than GSDs, big feet, and arched toes. Thick double coat that insulates well for cold weather, but can cause overheating in warmer climates. Prone to shedding so regular brushing will be needed. Lifespan: years on average. Saint Shepherds can be great family dogs, guard dogs, and can get along well with children. Friendly, outgoing, laid back personality. Very obedient so they should be easily trainable. Relatively high exercise requirements. One hour of daily exercise at minimum is ideal to limit destructive behaviors. Should ideally be socialized from a young age, although ongoing training is recommended. German Shepherds began as bands of herding dogs across the plains of Germany in the s. Max von Stephanitz , once a captain of the cavalry, was interested in developing an ideal working dog who could do more than herd sheep. St Bernard German Shepherd Mix Stephanitz invested years of work into generations of inbreeding, linebreeding, and culling. This produced a dog that still has a specific and recognizable form, versatility, and beauty. Saint Bernard, named for the Augustine monk St. Bernard of Menthon, according to Smithsonian Magazine , originated in the Alps around .Forbearers of St. Bernard included Asiatic mastiff types that the early Romans brought with them. Since the areas where the dogs lived were at elevations of 8, feet, the St. Bernards found use in helping trekkers navigate the passes. The dogs accompanied marronniers, or special servants, assigned the task of guiding foot travelers across the mountains. Saint Bernards would later realize their true calling, rescuing victims buried under snow. Saint Bernards are as recognizable as German Shepherds although not as popular. Saint Shepherds joined the designer dog ranks in the s among dog lovers who wanted to create an ideal companion who would also have moderate guard potential. Size German Shepherd females are 22 to 24 inches tall, while males are 24 to 26 inches in height. Saint Bernards are giant dogs. Females stand 26 to 31 inches tall at the shoulders, and males can be up to 35 inches. Saint Bernards weigh anywhere from pounds to a staggering pounds. German Shepherd Saint Bernard mix females are 25 to 28 inches tall and weigh 90 to pounds. Males can range from 28 to 31 inches tall and can weigh over pounds. What is the general body type? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs with lean frames. They have a long snout with some squaring of the muzzle, a dome-shaped forehead, brown medium eyes with a slight slant, muscular lengthy limbs, and a rectangular back that slopes downward towards the bushy tail. The Saint Bernard is a mastiff-type with a massive head and large-boned body. The muzzle tends to be deeper than it is long, and their eyes are brown, set forward, and deep. They give an impression of power. Shepherd has the large head of a Saint Bernard, with a moderation of the jowls, and lengthening of the muzzle. Their legs and body are strong and their backs are straight or slightly sloping. Occasionally, the German Shepherd St Bernard mix will have relatively large ears that stand up. Will your Saint Shepherd have unusual colors? Not all Shepherds are black and tan, and not every Saint Bernard is the stereotypical tricolor brown and white with black. The German Shepherd can be red and tan or blue and tan. They can also be solid red, black, tan, blue, or white. The AKC specifies that all Saint Bernards must have white on the chest, feet, the tip of the tail, and neck. Colored patches can be brindle or any shade of red. Show judges and the public alike prefer dogs with dark masks on their faces. A black facial mask is a very common trait among German Shepherd Saint Bernard offspring. Most of the hybrids are white and brown, red, fawn, or sable. Saint Shepherds can also be tricolor, like a Saint Bernard, or black and white pied. German Shepherds have three possible coat types and Saint Bernards two. The Shepherd can have long or medium-short straight hair with a thick undercoat. The third coat type is long outer fur without an undercoat. Saint Bernards come in a long or short-haired variety. Both coat types have a thick undercoat, and the outer guard hairs are usually straight to wavy. Your Saint Shepherd will have a dense undercoat with medium-long straight outer hairs. You should also plan on monthly bathing. Clip nails as with any dog every four to six weeks. However, as with the Saint Bernard, the Shepherd hybrid is susceptible to overheating in the summer when temperatures head north of 85 or 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Measures you can take to help with the heat are setting up a mini pool or running a misting system or sprinklers. Fresh water should always be available, regardless of the weather. Although the coat is water-resistant, additional precautions are needed to avoid sudden drops in their core temperature. However, the combination of their independent working style and a brief history of dogfighting, makes it prudent to exercise caution when introducing German Shepherds to new dogs. According to Dogtemperament. The Shepherd-Saint Bernard often inherits their social make-up from the Saint Bernard side, and as such they love to play. Three components used to gauge canine intelligence are obedience, the job for which they were bred, and finding solutions to problems or solving puzzles. An example of a job ranked high for intelligence is herding, which requires dogs to think. Your Saint Shepherd will be a very intelligent and obedient dog. Their size alone is enough to deter trespassing, let alone break-ins or home invasions. Saint Shepherds have a loud bellowing bark as well. Shepherd Saint Bernard hybrids tend to live longer than their parents, but they can inherit several serious health problems. In parentheses is which breed can pass the problem to the mixed puppies. Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus — GDV, not necessarily heritable, is a life-threatening problem that threatens any large dog with a deep chest as well as Dachshunds. The stomach becomes bloated with gas and can rotate degrees or more. Sometimes the spleen also twists. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia St. German Shepherds have a higher-than-average occurrence of elbow dysplasia as well. Bernards are vulnerable to heart failure. Dilatative cardiomyopathy is usually left-sided and leads to enlargement of the heart and thinning of the cardiac walls. Cystadenocarcinoma and Nodular Dermatofibrosis GSD — A hereditary condition that causes skin tumors, uterine cancer, and changes in the kidneys. Pannus GSD — Pannus is a disease that affects the cornea of the eye. Rarely, your dog may become diagnosed with degenerative myelopathy a progressive neurological and muscular disorder , perianal fistulas draining tracts around the anus , hemophilia blood clotting disorder , and decreased pancreatic enzymes — all diseases affecting the German Shepherd. Saint Bernards only live for about 7 to 10 years, while German Shepherds can live 10 to 12 years. Perhaps exhibiting slight hybrid vigor, Saint Shepherd can live 10 to 14 years, according to dogbreeds.How much exercise does the German Shepherd Saint Bernard need? German Shepherds are highly active dogs with abundant energy and exceptional stamina levels. With the mental stimulation they also require to remain emotionally balanced, Shepherds require 90 to minutes of exercise and training per day. On the contrary, sources like Dogtime recommend only moderate exercise for Saint Bernards. The Saint Bernard puppy is prone to bone developmental disorders from rapid growth. Over exercise can exacerbate abnormal growth, pain, and discomfort. Saint Bernard puppies still need to exercise to prevent problems associated with becoming overweight. An exercise regimen should accommodate St. Ultimately, a Saint Bernard needs 30 to 60 minutes of exercise daily. Saint Shepherds are between their two parents in exercise requirements and activity levels. You must always take into account the weather because your Saint Shepherd will be more heat-sensitive than a GSD. This video illustrates the vast difference in size and appearance between Saint Bernards and German Shepherds, as well as a few of the color variations you can see in black and tan GSDs. Note the reddish-brown color with a black mask. Notice how friendly and comfortable he is. This is most likely due to proper socialization and having loving owners. He is a large Saint Shepherd with medium hair. His feet and the tip of his tail are white like a Saint Bernard. Many hybrids of this particular mix are taller and leaner than you might expect. In general, no, St. Bernards are not typically aggressive dogs. They are a well natured dog that is great in a family setting. They are known for their tolerance and patience, which is especially important if you have younger children. However, while they are not typically aggressive in their nature, a non-aggressive dog is never a guarantee when purchasing. This is why training a dog is so important because it will help to ensure that your dog has the correct manners and temperament. While a lot of people may be put off by the size of a St. Bernard, their size does not reflect their personality. They are often known as gentle giants because they are well natured. When it comes to other animals in the household, again, St. They may potentially have some issues with dogs if they have experienced any negative interactions, but for the most part, they are not aggressive dogs. Yes, for the most part, St. Bernard loves to cuddle. While many people can be put off by their size, which can be understandable, they are very loving. They love to be around family members and enjoy receiving a fuss and cuddles. While they are not a big attention seeking breed, they do enjoy being stroked. However, as with all dogs, St. Given this, while many do enjoy being cuddled, not all will. If your dog prefers a belly rub or a head scratch, then you should do this instead of forcing your dog to cuddle. All dogs will show affection in their own individual way, which you should be aware of. The more you get to know your dog, the more you will understand what affection they prefer. Are St Bernards easy to train? This is because they are a dog that wants to please its owner. As a result of this, they do respond well to commands and instructions. Training is such an important aspect to owning a dog, especially if you are a new dog owner. However, while they are an easy breed to train, you will need to ensure that you are putting in the time and effort required to train the dog correctly. The more effort you put into training your dog, the better behaved, and obedient they will be on the whole. Given that they are calm dogs, they do have a lot of patience when they are being trained, which is positive. They are not as easily distracted in comparison to other breeds of dog. As a result, they may not do what is asked of them straight away. Stubbornness can make training slightly more difficult, and this will require patience and persistence from you, the owner. Do shepherd mixes bark a lot? While this will depend on the individual dog, typically shepherd mixes will bark a lot. This is because German shepherds are a breed that can be quite vocal. While this is not necessarily a negative thing, it can be off-putting for some people. While they are more likely to bark in comparison to other mixes of dogs, it is possible to stop this from occurring. Though it will require more patience and persistence, you can train a German shepherd mix not to bark. With mixed breeds, it is difficult to determine how a dog will act. This is because they have traits of two separate dog breeds. While German shepherds are a more vocal breed, if they are mixed with a breed that is not overly vocal, this can mean that their litter will be less vocal on the whole. How big do German shepherd Saint Bernard mix get? The size of a German Shepherd and Saint Bernard mix will vary depending on the size of both parents. While you can guesstimate, ultimately their size is down to the characteristics of both parents. However, typically this mix will reach around 28 inches tall, though they can be smaller than this. This is fairly large, but not as large as a Saint Bernard. When looking at their weight, they will typically weigh anywhere from 85 to pounds. While this is an estimate, you may find that your mix will be slightly taller or smaller than this, due to its genetics. Hence they make great watch dogs. With their Saint Bernard genes, they enjoy playing with everyone around and are good caregivers as well. However, they may act stubborn at times. They are diligent, alert and obedient dogs, who love to please their families and follow commands. Though they make great family pets, and are good with children, adult supervision is advised with kids owing to the big size of these dogs. With proper socialization from their pup days they will get along well with kids and dogs and other pets. They may drool a lot like the Saint Bernard if they have the loose jowls, but this is uncommon in this breed. However with low activity and exercise they have a tendency to get overweight. Take them out for walking, jogging, etc once a day for minutes. This will keep their energies channelized and keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Without proper exercise they may tend to get anxious and develop bad behavior and barking traits. Some great activities for your pet include playing fetch, playing with other dogs at the dog park, hiking, swimming, and obedience and agility training. Grooming The Saint Shepherd is a heavy shedder and needs quite some maintenance. You will need brush him daily using a hard bristle brush, metal comb or pin brush several times a week to prevent his coat from matting. Bathe them once a month with a mild dog shampoo to keep him clean and dirt free. Trim their nails regularly and brush their teeth atleast three times a week to avoid bad breadth. Health Problems Being a relatively new breed of dogs, not much health issues have been reported. However crossbreeds are usually more healthy than their purebred parents. These dogs have an average lifespan of years. Like all other dogs, the Saint Shepherd is also prone to some diseases like;.