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This comes at no extra cost to you. Training your golden retriever puppy to sit is simple and easy—once you know the right way to teach them. Getting this first command down builds confidence for both you and your puppy, plus it can help with a lot of other potential problem behaviors down the line. For example, many people struggle with their golden retriever jumping up on them. Getting them to sit when they want to jump is a great way to stop them from jumping. Having your golden sit and look at you is also a good way to get them to focus and work on impulse control. For instance, if I have a treat in my hand, my golden, Oliver, will sometimes nudge me to get to it. Step 0: Set Them Up For Success Puppies are like toddlers with short attention spans that are easily distracted, so you need to make training quick and fun. To lure them into a sit: Hold the treat slightly in front of and higher than their head Slowly move it straight back behind them parallel to the ground. As they try to follow it with their nose they will eventually fall into a sit. Puppies are very visual and using a hand signal can help them learn and obey a command better. Now, instead of just holding the treat in front of their face, do your hand signal with the treat in your hand. As they get better at sitting while doing the hand signal with the treat in your hand, try putting the treat in your other hand and doing the hand signal without the treat. Then as soon as they sit, give them the treat from your other hand. For example, if you always do the hand signal with your right hand, put the treat in your left hand, do the hand signal with your right hand, and then give them the treat with your left. So as you work on mastering a command, try it in different spots. If you started in the living room, then try in the kitchen, then the bedroom, then the hallway. To teach them to stay, you just quickly keep giving them treats them as long as they stay seated. If they pop up, then you stop rewarding them. As they get better at staying seated, slowly increase the time between rewarding them. Another note about teaching stay is that even though this is step 5, you can start teaching them to stay seated almost as soon as they learn to sit. Common Mistakes When Teaching Your Puppy To Sit Here are six of the most common mistakes new golden retriever puppy owners make when teaching their puppy to sit and stay. Slowly bring it backward so that they can follow it with their nose, but eventually have to sit down to keep following it. This is especially true for teaching stay. This inhibits them from figuring it out themselves, which is what helps them learn a command long-term. Yelling or punishing them will make your puppy scared of you, instead of encouraging them to want to obey you because they want to please you. Conclusion When teaching your golden retriever puppy to sit, make sure to set your puppy up for success and then follow the steps below. Have any questions about teaching your golden retriever puppy to sit? Let me know in the comments below! And if you know someone who wants to teach their puppy to sit, please share this with them! Related articles:. Read the full disclosure here. Is this sitting long enough? Come on! Continuing with my Golden Retriever obedience training series, this article concentrates on how to train a Golden Retriever to sit. The sit command is one of the easiest yet most useful commands you can train your Golden Retriever and is the best place to start as the first thing you teach them. Your puppy can easily succeed which will build their confidence and leave them excited to do more training. And it paves the way for a relationship where your dog is happy to work with you after experiencing early, the joys and praise of success. Training your Golden Retriever to sit is a relatively easy thing to do. When Can It Be Used? The sit command is an extremely effective way for you to control your dog when needed. To sit and wait before crossing any road. To sit and wait patiently before giving any food or treats. To sit and wait before climbing stairs or going through doors, leaving the way clear for people to safely go first. To stop where they are and root them to one spot when off leash. The power and usefulness of being able to get your dog to stop and stay in one spot with a single command cannot be overstated and will serve both you and your dog very well throughout life. Start alone at home in a familiar room, with no distracting pets, people or noises of any kind. Once mastered in this simple setting only then should you generalize and proof the command by training in different environments and adding in distractions. To prevent boredom and your puppy losing interest, Keep your training sessions short. For a very young puppy, just 3 to 5 minutes a few times per day. Once your puppy has matured, you can increase this to 10 to 15 minute sessions 2 to 3 times per day. Always speak your cues and commands in a quiet, warm but firm tone of voice. But although firm, keep your voice warm and in a medium pitch. Try to keep the training fun, with lots of praise and reward. Always finish before your puppy gets bored and stops responding, or fails to successfully earn their praise and reward. Finally, if all else fails you can use a little physical coercion as a last resort. The method is as follows: Step 1. Step 2. You have to get the distance of the treat right as too high and your puppy will jump, too low and they will back up instead of look up. Step 3. Step 4. The timing is important here. So if they rise, lure them back into sitting before giving the treat. Step 5. Then give them the treat from the pouch or your pocket. Step 6. Once they can do this, lure them with your hand much farther away but empty, again giving the treat from your pouch or pocket. Step 7. The hand signal for sit has you with your hand at your side, palm facing forward and you raise your hand until parallel with the floor with your palm facing upwards. Now you are mimicking this at distance, with the sit command added. But it works equally well with your voice if you time it well. What you do is just wait around quietly and calmly, doing nothing and ignoring your puppy but watching them intently. Most dogs now try all sorts of behaviors hoping to win another treat. You must ignore them, patiently wait until the next time they sit and then mark the behavior with the command, treat and praise them again. Then praise them heartily and give them a treat. You should only have to perform this a few times before your puppy gets it and although they will not like being forced into position, as long as you praise and reward them well they will very quickly forgive and forget while learning the sit command. But please, try the other two methods first and foremost. If you give a treat every single time you ask for a behavior, this sets up a bad situation where your dog will only perform commands when they know you have the treats and they can get one. You will be training other commands at the same time as sit Like down and stay so the first thing you want to do when phasing out food rewards is to ask for more in return for the same prize. Ask for a sit and a down 2 behaviors before a reward. Then ask for a sit, a down and another sit 3 behaviors before giving a reward. Your puppy is still being rewarded, but less often and for doing more. Anything your puppy loves can be used as a reward for positive reinforcement. For instance praise and affection, a belly rub, a favorite toy or a game of tug, perhaps a short time outside for a couple of minutes. As you continue training the same commands, reward with food treats less and less, and use non-food treats more and more. Eventually you want to reach a point where reward is truly random. This keeps your puppy guessing and they love the gamble , working to see what they will earn and when. So when your Golden Retriever can reliably sit on cue when at home, your work is far from finished. Do this by taking and repeating the training from the very first step in different locations. Then add further difficulty by asking for longer sits and increasing the distance they must remain sitting while you walk away. Finally, add distractions such as noises, children playing and other animals nearby. You can ask your dog to sit before you give them their dinner, put on a leash before going for a walk or give them a chew toy. There are many little opportunities that present themselves where you can practice the command throughout the day. Perhaps they have too much energy and need tiring out, or the opposite and are just too tired and need a nap. Simply smile, move on and try again later. Punishment achieves nothing. The final tip is to try to get your whole family involved. Training helps create a special bond and relationship between a trainer and dog that everybody in the home should strive to create. But please have your family members read this same article and practice the same techniques. They need a certain level of consistency to succeed and shine. Conclusion The sit command is a very good place to start your obedience training journey. I hope this article has proven useful!

DBR, IDCR Temperament and Behavior Much like its parents, the Boxachi is a highly intelligent breed with a clever and alert expression, and are loyal and fond of their owners and family members. If they are brought up together, they are good with kids and other pets and can mingle with them well. Not being too adaptable to weather changes, some individuals might bear the heat, but hardly low temperatures. Some Boxachis can be quite active, while others are average. Either way, owing to their short stature, they are suited for apartment life. Boxachis are courageous, with an innate guarding instinct. Care Exercise Though they are well-suited for apartment life, never skip taking your Boxachi out for a walk or a jog every day, since they love outdoors. Grooming They are moderate shedders, and have a short coat, which makes grooming and maintenance easy. Brush the coat twice a week, but do not trim. Health Problems Like most crossbred dogs, they do not have any diseases exclusive to their breed. But do not skip the vaccine dates and visiting the vet annually for a general checkup. Training Do not yell if your pup barks a lot or too loudly. To train your dog, begin with pressing your doorbell. Once it understands your gesture, give it a pat or a treat. Gradually, your dog will learn to discontinue the connection between the sound of a doorbell and its craving to bark. Start socializing it from the time they are young. Other than for exercise, you can also take them out for shopping, a drive around your neighborhood, strolling through the greens, or visits to a dog park. Pleasant experiences, new places or new faces will help your dog stay calm and balanced. Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. With its medium to small dog size, this puppy often inherits the face of the Chihuahua parent and the body of the Boxer. Sometimes, they can inherit the wrinkled face of the Boxer. Much like its parents, this highly intelligent dog breed has a clever and alert expression, something we are used to seeing in Chihuahuas. The only downside to this puppy is its inability to adapt to weather changes. So, if your area has a too hot or too cold climate, you might be better off with a different puppy. With that in mind, today, we will talk about the personality traits, appearance, health issues, and exercise needs of the Boxer Chihuahua mix. Meet The Breed Some might say there are a few more interesting mixed breeds. The Boxachi is a designer breed, a cross between a purebred Chihuahua and a Boxer parent. When combined together, these two canines make a sassy and playful pet that is loyal and devoted to its owners and parents. It is a rare sight to see. What you have here is an adorable, playful puppy, with just a tiny bit of sass. As a fairly new designer dog, the Chihuahua Boxer mix is not quite as popular as Doodle breeds , for example. Meet The Parents As we said before, this is a relatively new designer breed. Very few is known about it. So, how can we try and find out more about this beautiful puppy? Well, we can start by learning more about its parent breeds. Chihuahua First off, we start with the Chihuahua, the smaller puppy in the equation. Famously known as one of the smallest, if not the smallest dogs in the canine world, Chihuahuas do not let their size bother them. What you get here is a small dog with plenty of character. Despite their size, they have a bold and confident personality. With that in mind, here are the most common personality traits of a Chihuahua puppy: Loyal and affectionate with their owners, they crave attention and want nothing more than to cuddle Despite their size, they have a protective instinct and can and will guard their territory and owners They have excellent hearing, making them perfect watchdogs. We have to mention they are alert and will bark to notify their owners of any potential danger or problem. Sometimes, even the tiniest sound can make them go berserk Temperamental dogs that can snap or growl when they feel uncomfortable or threatened They love to play and can be quite energetic. They are a bundle of joy and energy in a small package Most importantly, Chihuahuas are intelligent and can pick up commands quite easily They are known to have a bit of a stubborn streak Boxer Next on the list is the Boxer parent, the other part of the equation. In the past several years, Boxers have gone up in popularity. And one of the reasons is their unique and cuddly face. But do not forget their personality. Famous as the clowns in the canine world, they will play and entertain you 24 x 7. With that in mind, here are some of the most common personality traits of Boxers: Friendly with people and other animals, they rarely, if ever show signs of aggressiveness and dominance Social dogs that love to be around family members High-energy puppies that need plenty of exercise and playtime Can be a bit stubborn, and does not always listen to commands Their playful and silly personality will make you fall in love with the breed Appearance When it comes to a Boxer Chihuahua mix, we have to note that this dog can vary in size. You can never know how big it will get. Of course, unless you adopt an adult. Yet, the maximum they can grow up to is 40 lbs. When you look at the parent breeds, they are on different sides of the size spectrum. In some cases, you might end up with a small lap adorable dog, or you can end up with a puppy as big as the Boxer. For the most part, they grow somewhere in the middle, and rarely if ever grow bigger than 40 pounds. Their coat is short, glossy, and straight. These puppies are available in a range of colors. Their short coat can be either dark brown, light brown, golden, brindle, tan, or anything in between. Temperament One of the reasons why people fall in love with the Chihuahua Boxer mix is that this puppy is guaranteed fun and entertainment 24 x 7. Playful and affectionate, they are loyal and devoted to the family. As we saw from the personality traits of the parents, these puppies have plenty of positive vibes. Yes, they have a mischievous side, but they are mostly sweet, loving, affectionate, and loyal. Fun fact: The Boxer parent is rarely aware of its size. Even a big mixed breed here will turn into a cuddle companion dog. These dogs love sitting in your lap, no matter their size. Now speaking of their intelligence, you will find they are quite smart. They do pack some stubbornness, but they are generally easy to train and will follow your guidance. There are rare moments, however, when your Boxer mix will want to do as it pleases him. Do not be surprised. Expect it. These moments are rare, and while he can go his course outside, he will eventually come to you. After all, these dogs crave attention, and cannot live without human companionship. They are amazing for a family with small or adult children. They love playing with children and will be quite gentle with them. Of course, you need to supervise their play. After, this is not a Golden Retriever or Labrador Retriever that will sit no matter if you tug its ears or pull its tail. They also get along with other animals, but be careful of their territorial instinct. It is something that comes from the Chihuahua parent. When raised together with other animals, they will do amazing. And with socialization, you can solve any issue. But they will need time to warm up to other pets in the household. Training Training these puppies can be a bit of a challenge. They do study quickly and pick up commands easily. But they have a stubborn streak and can be sassy and independent. Be patient with your pet. Use positive reinforcement, and always reward with treats and praise. They do not like toys as much as they like treats and dog food. Be sure you establish yourself as the leader of the pack. This will ensure your dog follows your lead. Exercise Needs The two parents of the Boxachi are high-energy dogs that need plenty of physical exercise. Some mental stimulation will do as well, but they are not some of the smartest dogs that need brain teasers and games all day long. Generally speaking, this Chihuahua mix puppy needs between 45 and 60 minutes of physical exercise per day. Walks and playtime will do it. The good news is Chihuahuas do not need a yard. If your mixed breed inherits personality traits and appearance features from its Chi parent, you can do it with a small apartment. Health Issues One of the reasons why the Boxer is often crossed with other breeds is because of its health issues. As a brachycephalic dog, the Boxer is prone to breathing issues, heart problems, and more. Luckily, the other part of the equation is the Chihuahua, one of the healthiest dogs around. The offspring of Chihuahua and Boxer can live anywhere between 10 and 15 years. That is a quite long life for a companion pet. Grooming No matter which parent is dominant, your mixed dog will have a short coat. That will result in moderate shedding, but nothing to be worried about. Brushing their coat once per week will suffice. Do not bathe them too often. You might remove their natural skin oils. Boxers and their mixes are a lot like cats. They groom themselves when needed. So, they considered a clean breed. One of the most lovable dogs around Thanks to the Chihuahua parent, Boxer mixes live a longer life They provide 24 x 7 entertainment Facebook. Some believe that it descends from the Techichi, a small dog initially kept by the Toltec, in Mexico. Others say that the Chihuahua is a cross between a small Terrier and a Chinese crested dog. However, the most likely explanation is that the breed is a mix of several different dogs from Mexico and Central America. The Boxer Originally bred in Germany, Boxers were used as working dogs on farms. However, they soon gained popularity as pets, thanks to their friendly dispositions and loyal nature. Over the years, Boxers have been used as guard dogs, police dogs, and even search-and-rescue dogs. It's believed that American breeders started breeding Boxachis in the s, in order to reduce the brachycephalic features of the Boxer, which often lead the health complications. Unfortunately, not much is known about the history of this hybrid breed. The Boxachi is not recognized by the A. Boxer Chihuahua Mix Appearance Boxachis inherit the Boxer's signature square jaw and muscular build, along with the Chihuahua's large ears and round eyes. They are muscular with a short coat, and their brown or black eyes are almond-shaped. The Boxachi is a medium-sized dog that will weigh between 45 — 60 pounds, standing 18 to 25 inches at the shoulder. Boxachi Temperament The Boxer Chihuahua mix is a highly intelligent dog. Boxachis are known for their loyalty to their owners and family members, and their clever and alert expression. If they are brought up together, Boxer Chihuahua mixes are good with older kids and other pets. However, if you're looking for a quiet, lapdog-type companion, the Boxer Chihuahua mix is probably not the right breed for you. This active, high-energy breed needs plenty of exercise and stimulation, or they can become destructive. A post shared by concretefixerupper Boxachi and other pets Some say that Boxer Chihuahua mixes are too independent to get along with anyone else, while others believe that they have the perfect mix of energy and affection. So, what's the verdict? Well, it depends. Some Boxer Chihuahua mixes are perfectly happy living with other dogs, cats, and even rabbits. However, some Boxachis can be a bit too much for smaller pets, and some others can be very territorial. It really depends on the personality of the individual Boxachi. Some Boxers shed very little, while others may shed quite a bit. The same is true for Chihuahuas. However, Boxer Chihuahua mixes tend to fall somewhere in between. They're moderate shedders with short coats, so they're easy to groom and don't require a lot of upkeep. Chihuahua Boxer Mixes are not hypoallergenic. Boxer Chihuahua Mix Health Boxer Chihuahua mixes typically have a lifespan of between 10 and 15 years. While Boxer Chihuahua mixes may inherit some of their physical and behavioral traits from their parent breeds, they also inherit the same health issues. Patellar Luxation Chihuahua Boxer mixes are prone to patellar luxation, a condition in which the kneecap pops out of place. While this condition can be painful, it is typically not life-threatening and can be managed with medication and surgery. Hip Dysplasia Chihuahuas and Boxers are both breeds that are predisposed to this condition, so it's no surprise that their offspring inherit the same risk. Hip dysplasia is a degenerative joint disease that can cause pain, lameness, and even arthritis. While it's not always possible to prevent hip dysplasia, there are some things you can do to reduce your Boxachi's risk. For example, make sure they get plenty of exercise to keep their joints healthy and avoid obesity. Degenerative myelopathy Degenerative myelopathy is a slowly progressive disease of the spinal cord in dogs. The most common breed affected is the Boxer, but the Boxer Chihuahua mixis also susceptible. The telltale signs of degenerative myelopathy include weakness in the hind legs, difficulty rising, and eventually paralysis. The disease is caused by the degeneration of the white matter of the spinal cord, which leads to the loss of motor neurons. Boxachi Care When caring for a Chihuahua Boxer Mix, you must consider grooming, exercising, training, and feeding. Grooming Chihuahua Boxer mixes are moderate shedders, so you'll need to brush their coat a couple times a week. But unlike some other breeds, you don't need to trim their coat - just give them a good brush and they'll be looking sharp. Training Training a Boxer Chihuahua mix can be a bit of a challenge. These little dogs are full of energy and can be quite stubborn. However, with a bit of patience and consistency, it is possible to train them to be well-behaved companions. One of the most important things to remember when training a Boxer Chihuahua mix is to be consistent. This means using the same commands and rewards every time. It can also be helpful to use positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, to rewards good behavior. However, the exact amount will depend on factors such as the size and activity level of your Boxachi. Exercise If you're looking for a dog that will be the life of the party, look no further than the Boxer Chihuahua mix. This hybrid is full of energy and loves to play. He'll thrive in an active household and will be your faithful hiking buddy - just be sure to bring a water bowl, as he's not one for long hikes in hot weather. They also tend to be more independent and less needy. On the downside, males can be more difficult to house-train and may be more prone to aggression. Female Boxer Chihuahua mixes, on the other hand, are typically smaller and more delicate. They're also usually more affectionate and eager to please. However, females can be more prone to separation anxiety and may be more difficult to obedience train. As always, you should check with your veterinarian before picking out recipes for your pooch to ensure they are getting all the nutrients they need. Checking with your vet is especially important for this breed to their variance in size. For example, you may have a Boxach that weighs pounds while the one you read about online is closer to 40 pounds. While you are at it, you also want to discuss treats and snacks , as well. We can tell you that this pooch can be prone to weight gain. For this reason, you want to stay away from meals and treats that are high in unhealthy fats, sugars, processed and artificial ingredients, and other not wholesome foods. They do well with two walks per day along with some additional playtime. There are a few details to keep in mind, however. First, if they are on the bigger side, it is better to have some outdoor space for them to run. You can also take them on jogs, hikes , and other more strenuous activities. On the other hand, if they are on the smaller side of the canine community, you need to be more careful. Luckily, if they are smaller in stature, they can have more playtime indoors. Regardless of size, however, you need to keep them on a leash at all times when outdoors. They can be great escape artists. Other Activities With a smarty on your hands, you will want to give them some brain games to keep them busy. This can be in the form of toys , teaching them tricks, or playing games. This breed also loves to tackle and pounce, so stuffed animals are fun for them along with chew toys to keep that pastime from being taken out on your furniture. First and foremost, they are a quick study, so learning the rules is not an issue. Instead, they can be stubborn, sassy, and independent. You will have to be patient with your pet and keep training sessions quick and fun. As always, positive reinforcement works wonders. Be that as it may, they also need an alpha to follow. At the end of the day, if you are consistent, persistent, and repetitive, your pooch will learn their lessons and be better for it. They are devoted to you, and ultimately want to make you happy and smile. Plus, they like the treat, too. We also wanted to quickly point out here that while all training is important, socialization at a young age is imperative for the Boxachi. You want to start this training from day one if possible while also adding in obedience, behavioral, and housebreaking one step at a time. Thankfully, their nail, ear, and teeth care are pretty basic. You want to brush their teeth as often as possible. You will also need to check their ears twice a week and clean them gently with a cotton swab and canine ear cleaning product. Nails are done as needed typically every four to six weeks. It is their coat fur where things can get confusing, so we are going to break it into two sections. Short Fur If your Choxer has short fur, you will need to brush them weekly to get all excess hair off and keep their coat shiny and healthy. They are not overly big shedders, but you want to keep the excess to a minimum. When it comes to baths, it will depend on whether they take after their Boxer or Chihuahua side. With that being said, it is recommended that you only bath a Boxer when they really need it as it strips their fur of essential oils. We would advise following this dictate for the short-haired Boxachi. Instead, if you need to clean them more often, you can wipe them down with a damp face cloth to remove any dirt or debris. You also want to note that this short-haired pooch does not do well in cold weather. Even if they are on the bigger side, you need to provide them with a sweater in the winter and colder months. Long Fur When your pup has longer fur, it is important to brush them with a pin and slicker brush several times a week. Not only will these keep excess hair from getting all over your furniture and clothes, but it will also keep mats from forming. Unlike the Boxer, experts recommend that you bathe your Chihuahua often. This is also what they advise from a longer-haired Boxachi. This will help keep them clean, and their fur healthy. Also, if your pup is on the smaller side, you will still want to provide them with a sweater in the winter to keep them warm. Bigger dogs may not need to be careful when the temperatures plummet. For that reason, we have listed the serious and most likely problems along with the minor and less-likely issues below. Thankfully, this is a pretty healthy pooch, but regular check-ups are important to make sure they stay that way. Minor Conditions. Your Chihuahua Boxer mix may grow to between 6 and 20 inches tall, depending on which dog had the predominant height gene. Are you looking for a way to treat your furry friend? Sign up for our newsletter for a chance to win a free month of Barkbox! Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to get emails from myk9life. We'll respect your privacy and you can unsubscribe any time. The History of the Chihuahua Boxer Mix The Boxer and Chihuahua mix is a fairly new mixed-breed dog, without much documented history to go on. However, both of its parent breeds have plenty of documented history — both stretching back centuries, one in South America, the other in England. Chihuahuas in the United States are routinely found as some of the most popular family and companion pets in the country. While most Chihuahuas may have something of a Napoleon Complex, they generally make very good pets. Despite or perhaps because of their smaller stature, Chihuahuas are frequently chosen in the United States to be companion and family pets for many different types of families. Their relatively low-maintenance coat, calm and aloof demeanour when not excited and moderate exercise requirements make them a good fit for the elderly, as well. The Chihuahua was first bred in Mexico in the 19th century, but has historical lineage that stretches back to the 9th century, when the Aztecs ruled over much of Mexico. There are competing theories as to when the Chihuahua was first crossbred. Some dog historians believe that the Chihuahua is a descendent of the above-mentioned Techichi pup. Others believe that the dog was crossed with another ancient Mayan dog — this one was hairless. If the latter opinion is true, then this may well be the origin of crossbreeding of the Chihuahua. This practice was ended in with the Cruelty Against Animals Act, though Boxers still were used in dog fights. Later, Boxers were introduced into other parts of Europe and at the turn of the 20th century, into the United States. Ever since their introduction at the turn of the 20th century, Boxers have enjoyed a relatively peaceful existence in the United States, in comparison to their English beginnings. Nowadays, Boxers are companion pets, though they have also been used as working dogs in police and military functions. Boxers can be rather energetic small to medium-sized dogs, making them difficult for the elderly to handle and care for. How Did Boxers Come About? Unfortunately, Boxers have a much similar history in the UK to the Pitbull, bred for violence and sport. Boxers are some of the most popular crossbreeds of today, however, their original crossbreeding history is somewhat difficult to determine. They originated in the 19th century in England and were likely crossbred between then and now, though documentation of this is few and far between. Our most accurate information suggests that Boxers were likely crossbred in the United States in the s and early s, as crossbreeding of dogs became more and more popular. For example, an active dog will do much better with an active family. Much of the temperamental questions are fairly common-sense, but a miscalculation could mean that you and your new dog are unhappy and may lead to more trauma for the dog, if it needs to be re-homed again. What is the Temperament of the Chihuahua Boxer Mix? Luckily for most of its owners, the Chihuahua Boxer mix presents a fairly mild temperament. Contrary to its excitable Chihuahua genes, the Boxer brings a calming element. The Chihuahua Boxer may initially be stubborn and resistant to training, though keep at it! Chihuahua Boxer mixes are generally very friendly and loving animals to humans and other pets alike! Is the Chihuahua Boxer Mix Friendly? Yes, in general, you can expect the Chihuahua Boxer mix to be a very friendly dog. The Boaxchi will adopt the ever-loving, affectionate personality of the Chihuahua, with a more reserved and standoffish approach to strangers. The Chihuahua Boxer mix can weigh anywhere from 10 to 40 pounds. Generally, the Chihuahua Boxer mix can reach anywhere from 6 to 20 inches in height. Similar Sized Breeds Given their small to medium ish size potential, there are plenty of similar-sized breeds to the Chihuahua Boxer mix. These include: King Charles Spaniel.

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to get latest worksheets and study materials in your email. These dogs have been crossed with the Labrador Retriever , Pitbull, Chihuahua , German Shepherd , Husky, Boxer , Poodle, and many other purebreds to produce friendly, loyal, and active companions that also excel as show dogs. Bullhuahua Terrier Bull Terrier X Chihuahua Its courage and protective instincts, along with a sweet disposition, make it a devoted companion and an excellent watchdog. Bully Jack Terrier Bull Terrier X Jack Russell Terrier It is suitable for those looking for a small to medium-sized companion with entertaining antics, fearless personality, and boundless energy. Bullmatian Terrier Bull Terrier X Dalmatian Although it makes a wonderful housemate, its high energy level can be difficult to handle, especially for a novice owner. Rottbull Rottweiler X Bull Terrier The Rottbull is a robust and tenacious dog, affectionate with its family while being watchful around strangers. Aussietare Australian Shepherd X Bull Terrier Known to be playful, protective, active, and social, the Aussietares can be occasionally aggressive because of their Terrier ancestry. Subscribe to our newsletter Join our subscribers list to get the latest news, and updates delivered directly in your inbox. Follow us on:. This unique mix can be prone to some health problems that are common to both parent breeds. Known diseases of English Bulldog-Bull Terrier mixes include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation and congenital heart defects. Hip dysplasia is a condition in which the hip joint does not develop properly, resulting in pain and lameness. Elbow dysplasia is a similar condition that affects the elbow joint. Patellar luxation is a condition in which the kneecap dislocates. Congenital heart defects are abnormalities of the heart that are present at birth. While these health problems can be severe, they are not necessarily found in all English Bulldog-Bull Terrier mixes. However, it is important to know them so that you can seek treatment if the dog develops any of these problems. What does this mixed breed look like? The coat of the English Bulldog-Bull Terrier mix is short, stiff and sparse. The hair is usually black, brown or brindle, with some white markings. The undercoat is soft and fine. It is difficult to predict what an English Bulldog and Bull Terrier mix will look like, as each dog is an individual and may have different characteristics and behaviors. It is possible that such a dog will have characteristics from both parents, but it is also possible that it will resemble more of one of the two breeds. The English Bulldog is a strong and muscular breed with a short and clipped coat, while the Bull Terrier is also a strong and muscular breed but generally has a longer and shinier coat. A mixed breed of these two breeds could be somewhere in this size range, but it is impossible to predict exactly what it will look like. It is also difficult to predict what the head, eyes, coat, and other physical characteristics of such a dog will look like, as this depends on a variety of factors, including the dog's genetic makeup and the environmental conditions in which the dog was raised. It is best to look at the character and behavior of such a dog individually, rather than judging it based on its appearance. What are breed characteristics of this mix dog? The English Bulldog-Bull Terrier mix is a strong, muscular dog with a short, thick coat. They typically weigh between kg and are cm tall. Fur length. Lifespan Sociability Deciding to add a new puppy to your home is not a decision you should take lightly. These dogs have plenty of energy but can also be challenging in terms of training. You must socialize them extremely well as puppies to avoid them becoming overly wary of strangers as adults. They can also be a touch stubborn, thanks to their Terrier heritage. It takes an experienced eye to pick up when your dog is starting to switch off and change up your commands accordingly. This is especially true with a less well-known cross such as the English Bull Terrier. You could get a pup that looks like their English Bulldog parent but with the personality of a Bull Terrier, or vice versa! You might even end up with a puppy who seems like a fairly even mix of both parent breeds in terms of both appearance and temperament. The most important thing when looking at getting a hybrid breed puppy is to familiarize yourself with both parent breeds and make sure you like everything about each of them. The tenacious and powerful nature of both these breeds meant that they were brave enough to take on a much larger foe. Bull Terriers came about by crossing the slower English Bulldog with Terrier breeds, in an attempt to create a powerful yet quick dog with spirit. Both breeds have been in the U. While the Bulldog is now the more popular of the two breeds by a significant margin, the Bull Terrier was the first to be accepted into the American Kennel Club. They were recognized as a breed by the AKC in and were the 13th breed to be placed on its books. The Bulldog was accepted into the American Kennel Club in , as their 26th breed. This means their owners need to be experienced at training dogs or happy to work with a professional for extra guidance. They can have a territorial streak and will take it upon themselves to protect their families if they are not properly socialized from a young age. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Any family will need to make sure that they place a high priority on training an English Bull Terrier right from the start. They can be a little too big and bulky for very old or young family members, as their exuberance may knock people and objects flying. Remember the fighting instinct of both parent breeds, and know that care will need to be taken with small pets, especially any that would run away rather than stand their ground. Free feeding this breed is not a good idea, as they will eat everything in sight rather than self-regulate. Another issue that can affect English Bull Terriers with shorter noses is that they cannot swim well , so they should never be allowed around bodies of water without being constantly monitored. Keeping training sessions short and sweet and using positive reinforcement techniques is a great way to make sure you keep their attention. This breed needs significant amounts of socialization when young, to make sure that they learn to accept other people and dogs both within their home and outside. They can excel at agility, tracking and obedience, but remember to take into account that you may need to reduce high-energy activities during hot weather if your pup has a short nose and is at risk of breathing problems. These are the most common health conditions to affect the English Bulldog and the Bull Terrier. Minor Conditions. The American French Bull Terrier is intelligent, but needs extra work with training due to their stubbornness and confidence. Daily training sessions of around five to ten minutes help this breed keep on track. Additionally, basic obedience classes with a professional trainer can be helpful, especially in puppyhood. It may be helpful for this breed to continue on in adult classes to maintain good manners. On the plus side, this breed is often engaged and interested in training. There is plenty of potential to trick-train this breed or go for more complicated tasks like agility. The American French Bull Terrier is loyal and intelligent, but not a good match for beginner dog parents. They can be strong-willed and need stimulation and routine exercise. Without proper stimulation, the American French Bull Terrier will grow bored and frustrated — regardless of how much love there is for them. This breed easily develops separation anxiety. Dog parents who are frequently home or able to bring pups to work are a good match for this breed. This breed should receive walks for at least 45 minutes a day. Keep in mind that this breed is brachycephalic and needs exercise, but also needs a slower pace. Ideally, they will also have a fenced in backyard to burn off extra energy. Both parent breeds, however, are well known and loved. The American Pit Bull Terrier was created in early 19th-century England for the popular spectator sports of bull- and bear-baiting. When those sports were finally recognized as inhumane and became illegal , dog-fighting sadly took its place. Thus, the Pit Bull became known for aggression. Handlers reaching into the dog-fighting rings wanted to be able to separate dogs without getting hurt themselves, and so breeding dogs willing to maul humans was counterproductive. The breed developed a reputation as a strong, protective dog, but one also known for being gentle and family-friendly. Today, many view the breed as inherently scary or mean, but they have just as many supporters on their side. The French Bulldog was first developed in England and was created to be a toy-size version of the similar English Bulldog. The breed thrived in France and Europe, and they were soon discovered by Americans as well. Today, the breed is beloved as a lazy but loving household companion. They have no breed standard, so their coats may be found in a variation of colors from either parent. However, they will tend to favor variations of tan, fawn, brindle and cream; these are colorations that the American Pit Bull and French Bulldog are both found in frequently. They will have a short coat based on both parent breeds. American French Bull Terrier Personality The American French Bull Terrier is often good-natured and loving, but they also can tend to be overprotective or easily startled. Training them consistently when young will ultimately improve their quality of life and yours as an adult. American French Bull Terrier Health While American French Bull Terriers originating from responsible breeders are often healthy, there are some genetic predispositions towards health issues to be aware of with this crossbreed. Dogs that favor their French Bulldog parentage are more likely to suffer from health problems. Patellar Luxation.

The primary distinction between French and English bulldogs comes down to size. English bulldogs tend to be short and stout, standing around inches tall and weighing around 50 pounds at most. French bulldogs also called Frenchies are shorter than English bulldogs — around inches tall and generally weigh under 30 pounds. Both French and English bulldogs have those loveable short noses, tiny legs, and that coveted wrinkly skin that makes them distinct from other more traditional breeds. Those looking for smaller dogs might just find the perfect match in either a Frenchie or an English bulldog. We strive to put health and temperament first. All our dogs are DNA health tested to ensure sound and healthy puppies. Most of our dogs descend from multiple generations of our own puppies. In , we were awarded 17 best French bulldog breeder of America by happydoggo. We offer all colors, patterns -- even fluffy Frenchies. We also offer stud services as well. We have a long track record of success and an endless list of happy clients. Powered by GoDaddy This website uses cookies. We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data. Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. Served in many positions in breed and all-breed clubs. Retired from showing dogs. Currently breeding French Bulldogs in all colors. We at Uplord Estates have a deep abiding love for the French bulldog as well as our bloodlines. It is our desire to share our Frenchies with those people who love them and are willing to make the commitment to providing the quality of life they richly deserve. The information and images included in this listing were sourced from Uplord Estates French Bulldogs. AR Family Frenchies We are small in home breeders with years of experience, lifetime animal lovers, and our hearts have been stolen by French bulldogs! We live in a country with plenty of space for our dogs to run and play outside and inside. Our dogs and puppies are all raised and live with us in our home, with constant human interaction. They are part of our family and everyday lives. They are always getting the love and attention they need and we strive to provide the best care, food, and environment possible. All of our dogs have been in our home since they where puppies and we had the privilege of raising them with undivided care and watching them mature into great family pets with wonderful personalities and character! Our dogs come from great bloodlines and have outstanding quality and genes. We know that they passed that on to their puppies! The puppies are raised inside our home since birth and are the center of our attention. They are accustomed to everyday household noises and living life with kids and family. They bring tremendous joy to our lives and we know they will do the same for yours! The information and images included in this listing were sourced from Family Frenchies. We are located in Center Ridge, AR. Our puppies are raised in our home and are socialized to our children and family pets. The information and images included in this listing were sourced from Frenchie Fresh Prince Kennel. Questions about French Bulldog puppies for sale in Arkansas? We have answers. How does French Bulldog puppies for sale in Arkansas work? Arkansas French Bulldog puppies for sale are available at many different prices due to the fact that there are so many different varieties of Frenchies. They come in all sorts of patterns and colors which affect price. Female Frenchies will always cost more due to the fact that they can breed so much! What type of dog are French Bulldogs? French Bulldogs Arkansas are small dogs that are short and kinda goofy. They have lollipop heads that are a bit too big for their bodies. Why are French Bulldogs more expensive than most breeds? Arkansas French Bulldogs for sale are unique from most breeds for a very special reason. Their hips are extremely narrow, and this causes reproduction to be very difficult for female French Bulldogs in Arkansas. Due to this, breeders and businesses have to artificially inseminate them. Not only this, but puppies have to all be delivered by C-section. This causes Frenchies to cost more than your average breed! Can I only connect with French Bulldog breeders in Arkansas? They can arrange travel to get their cute and happy Frenchie pups to you! How are the French Bulldog breeders screened? Less than a tenth of the French Bulldog breeders Arkansas of French Bulldog puppies for sale Arkansas, businesses and companies that wish to be part of our network are allowed in. We look at things like legal compliance, facility cleanliness and upkeep, puppy healthcare and nutrition, to determine who we let in. What makes Uptown Puppies so different from other sites with French Bulldogs? Anyone can sell them, literally anybody. Uptown has a special Breeder Pledge that all breeders and businesses have to honor! You get the best! What is a Arkansas puppy mill like? These so-called Arkansas French Bulldog breeders and businesses of Frenchie pups sell their puppies very cheap and young. These innocent pups often end up getting very sick very early on in life, and can cost you thousands at the vet. What health issues do French Bulldogs suffer from? French Bulldogs for sale Arkansas may suffer from a number of health issues, especially when they come from puppy mills. They often have trouble breathing, and they need to be protected from too much heat, as they can get heatstroke. They also may suffer from spinal disorders, joint diseases, eye diseases, as well as heart disease. Are there any French Bulldog litters currently available? What is the history of the French Bulldog? The French Bulldog for sale Arkansas originally came from England and was especially made to be a toy-size version of the British Bulldog. The Arkansas French Bulldog for sale was very popular with lace workers from Nottingham. Many of these lace workers emigrated to France, and brought their beautiful, little companions with them!

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. We as a family find great joy in helping make memories for you as a dog lover. As we are family, our dogs are family. We are devoted to our puppies and socialize with them daily. We ensure each puppy enjoys their newly found life by playing and running in the vast open land surrounding our home. We also daily reward our puppies with treats for their good behavior! We do have a few families in our local area that help to raise some of our breeds as well. We do this to make sure and give the parents and puppies the love and family environment they deserve. When you visit our home and walk up to meet all of the puppies, you will see how friendly and playful all of them are for that very reason. WHy Choose Us? We Are Family We are blessed to call our dogs family. Everyone in our home pitches in to give love and care to our pets. It truly is a family affair with our children coming along and contributing as well. Visits Welcome Trust is a major factor when choosing a breeder. That is why we invite you to our home and welcome any questions you may have before or after your purchase. We take great pride in the temperament and health of our dogs and puppies. Personal Touch We can't wait to hear from you! Travel Experience As much as we love meeting our puppy's new family we are happy to say we have had much success with our puppies traveling to their new home via air and ground pet nanny transport. They will learn everything from potty training to long-distance commands and obedience. Welcome to Pierce Ridge Golden Retrievers Now over 10 years ago we bought our first pure bred Golden Retriever dog with the idea of breeding in mind. Each individual puppy has brought much joy to every new owner as they first pick up their new family member to take home. Our family creates a home that prepares your puppy for your home. They often only go out to feed the puppies two or three times a day. Our puppies are enjoying a very different experience. They are held almost half their life while in our care! Giving them baths, holding them above our heads at arms length, clipping their nails, and just cuddling them most of the time will make them good with the vet, very sweet, and unafraid especially of young children. They raise German Shepherds, we raise Golden Retrievers : "For many of us, love for creation deepens through the relationships we form with our pets, particularly our dogs. By their very nature and need, dogs draw us out of ourselves: they root us in nature, making us more conscious of the mystery of God inherent in all things. They love to be with children and adults. Golden Retrievers have many talents and areas of excellence, such as: family dogs, police dogs, seeing eye dogs, search and rescue, hunting, and, of course, retrieving. The temperament of these dogs is sweet, they love to obey their masters, they are quick-witted, gentle, trusting, docile, and very friendly. Because of their friendly nature, without training they do not make very good guard dogs, but they will bark at a stranger giving you warning and them a caution. Click here to view photos of individual puppies available. Helms family .We are conveniently located about an hour outside of Charlotte, in Norwood, North Carolina, in the small community of Cottonville also just 15 minutes from Albemarle, NC. Our property is sixty acres of fields, grass, woods and a creek for our Goldens to explore and enjoy. We are situated off the main road, so our girls and boys can play to their hearts content every day. So take a look around, and visit with us. We believe in taking as natural approach to their health as possible, so our pups are raised with limited intervention, aside from their vaccinations and regular dewormings, These babies receive lots of socialization from our small children and other visitors we have : We also supplement with NuVet Plus, and send home samples with each pup. We are AKC inspected, and welcome your visit by appointment, can't wait to meet you! See our Reserving a Puppy page for answers to frequently asked questions and to download a copy of our reservation form and health guarantee.We are continually updating these as we receive them. This allows us to carefully select our moms and dads, to ensure you the healthiest pup! We screen for hips, elbows, eyes, and heart, as per the Golden Retriever standard. To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for North Carolina Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in North Carolina? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in North Carolina? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. We have answers. What's the most interesting thing about Golden Retriever puppies for sale near Boone? Golden Retrievers are an amazing breed of canine companions that have been captivating humans for centuries. One of the most interesting things about Golden Retrievers is their boundless amount of energy and enthusiasm for life. Rather than simply being a content couch potato, these dogs are always looking for opportunities for adventure and exercise. They also bring with them the reputation of being one of the most loyal and dependable breeds, forming very strong bonds with their family and friends. Additionally, Golden Retrievers have been known to form amazingly strong bonds with other animals in the home. With Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Boone, what is their coat like? The Golden Retriever is a long-haired breed that boasts a luscious coat. This breed has a medium-length waterproof top coat, which is made up of a combination of wavy and straight fur. Beneath this coat is a dense undercoat that provides warmth and insulation. The coat's colour has a range of shades to choose from, including cream, gold, reddish-gold, and dark golden. The average Golden Retriever comes with feathering on its tail, thighs, and chest. This breed requires weekly brushing to keep its coat free from knots and mats. What should I feed Boone Golden Retriever puppies for sale? A well-balanced diet is essential for any dog, especially for energetic breeds such as Golden Retrievers. While commercial dog foods are a great way to ensure your dog is getting the required nutrients, a combination of both wet and dry foods is ideal. Wet or raw foods provide a variety of essential nutrients that dry kibble can't always offer. Adding vegetables such as carrots and green beans can also offer plenty of vitamins and minerals; however it's important to always check with your veterinarian before making any dietary changes or additions. Am I ready to adopt Golden Retriever puppies in Boone? To prepare your home for a new Golden Retriever, first ensure your yard is securely fenced, as Golden Retrievers are highly active, playful dogs who love to explore. Next, make sure you have all the necessary supplies, such as food, treats, toys, a crate, and a bed. It's also important to firm up house-training guidelines so your pet can learn the proper boundaries and behaviors. Finally, remember that Retrievers need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, so ensuring they get adequate physical and mental activities is key to a happy, healthy pet. How fast do Golden Retrievers for sale in Boone grow? Your Golden Retriever puppy's size will depend on many factors, such as the puppy's sex and the size of their parents. Generally, adult Golden Retrievers typically range in size from inches at the shoulder for males, and inches at the shoulder for females. Male Golden Retriever puppies usually weigh around pounds, while female Golden Retriever puppies usually weigh around pounds. To get a better idea of your puppy's expected size when they reach maturity, you should consult their breeder for additional information. Are Golden Retriever puppies near Boone active dogs? Yes, Golden Retrievers are extremely active dogs. They have an abundance of energy and require lots of exercise and mental stimulation every day to ensure they remain happy and healthy. Golden Retrievers are often used for activities such as hiking, jogging, fetch, and swimming. These intelligent and social animals thrive on physical activity and love nothing more than exploring the world around them. With this natural eagerness for physical exertion and exploration, Golden Retrievers need to be provided plenty of outdoor stimulation and exercise. Are Golden Retrievers in Boone good for first-time owners? Golden Retrievers are an excellent choice for a first-time owner. These friendly pups have a lot of energy, making them a great fit for an active lifestyle. They love to be around people and get along well with all types of animals too. Plus, they are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them great to train. All these factors make them a wonderful companion for those who have never owned a pet before. Furthermore, they are not overly aggressive and typically have friendly dispositions. With proper exercise, they will stay healthy, happy and content. Is training Boone Golden Retrievers for sale easy? Training a Golden Retriever can be an easy, enjoyable task for many owners, as the breed has a natural affinity for structure, consistency, and is eager to please. Golden Retrievers respond especially well to positive reinforcement, which can make the training process less strenuous, and less time consuming. However, as with any breed, the training must be done in a consistent, patient manner as to not unintentionally reward negative behavior. It's also important to keep in mind that Golden Retrievers require regular socialization and ongoing training to stay in top shape.

German Shepherds can have three different varieties of coat: double coat, plush coat, and long haired coat. The breed standard is the double coat, which consists of dense, straight, short hair that lies close to the body. The long haired coat is also quite common among German Shepherds that are family pets. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. The most common colouring for a German Shepherd is black and tan; however, the breed can also appear in all black. Typically the coat is predominantly tan with black facial and saddle markings. In rare instances, German Shepherds can have white, blue, or reddish brown coats. These colours are not recognized by the breed standard, but do occur periodically. In fact, the white German Shepherd is actually considered a separate breed in some areas and is called the American White Shepherd. The German Shepherd is part of the working dog classification and has a strong proportioned build. Typically, the German Shepherd is 22 to 26 inches 56 to 66 cm tall and weighs between 50 and 90 pounds 23 and 41 kg. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source It has a narrow and deep chest, and the front legs and shoulders are muscular and sloping. Its body is slightly longer than it is deep, measuring from the shoulders to the rump. Go to source German Shepherd puppies typically weigh pounds kg after the first month and will continue to grow steadily throughout their first year. By six months they will weigh approximately pounds kg. German Shepherds have very distinct pointed ears that are erect. They are long at the base and face forwards, making the shape of a triangle. As puppies, the tips of the ear may flop over slightly, but they will straighten as the dog ages. German Shepherds have a long and bushy tail that hangs down when the dog is resting. When a German Shepherd is alert or in motion, the curve of the tail is accentuated and the tail will be slightly raised. German Shepherds can be fairly aloof and reserved when first meeting new people. However, once the dog has formed a connection with their owner, they are extremely loyal. German Shepherds are usually friendly and loyal to their family, but can be protective if they feel threatened. German Shepherds are high energy dogs and they need lots of daily exercise. If a German Shepherd is left a lone for long periods of time it will likely become bored and destructive. For example, the dog may start barking, chewing things, or digging. Make sure that your German Shepherd receives at least 1 hour of exercise each day. This breed is highly intelligent and trainable. They like to have a job or task to do, and you can train a German Shepherd to do a variety of different jobs. For example, German Shepherds are often used as "working" dogs, helping with search and rescue, drug sniffing and security, as well as providing aide and assistance to the visibly impaired. This is fun and stimulating for the dog. This breed is known to herd the sheep, count them, and keep them safe. This sense of possession make them apt for guarding a family. A pet can guard when he knows what all belongs to him and what does not. This ability helps a German Shepherd to differentiate between an enemy and the family. Protection to this breed comes naturally and that's why they are known as police dogs, too. German Shepherds are fantastic with your own kids and can act strange with the strangers and other kids. If you see a dog that you think might be a German Shepherd and are curious about the breed, approach the owner and ask. It is such a cute dog. I am considering getting one. Veterinarians will be familiar with the breed standard of most dog breeds. They will be able to easily examine the physical characteristics of the dog to help with identifying the breed. A licensed breeder will be able to provide you with paperwork that proves both parents are recognized as German Shepherds by the American Kennel Club. Make sure that you always use a breeder that is licensed by the American Kennel Club. This will also help to ensure that you are purchasing a purebred dog. There are a number of applications available that can help to identify different dog breeds. In order to use the app, simply upload a photo of a dog and the app will identify the breed. Once you receive the DNA test kit in the mail, open the package and carefully read all of the instructions. The instructions will provide you with steps on how to take a DNA swab and then how to return the results to the lab for testing. The kit will likely come with two swabs. They are both to be used on the same dog. Do the same thing with each of the swabs. Place the swabs into the plastic baggies provided. Then place them in the pre-paid return envelope or box. Once sealed, mail the results to the lab for testing. Approximately three weeks after you complete the test, you will receive detailed DNA results. Color Colors have a significant role in portraying if a dog from German Shepherd is original in its breed or not. The variants found in colors of dogs from German shepherd breed are many, where eight patterns are most common — pure black, pure white, black and tan, etc. Source Though most of the colors are permissible, strong colors have a greater say. Also, lighter colors, off colors, pale and washed are not the ones you are looking for if you want a purebred german shepherd. In comparison, the other colors are said to vary from one country to another. Along with this, the forefoot and hindfoot are proportioned similarly for moving simultaneously in opposite directions. The shoulder blades have a vibrant melange with the upper arm, intersecting at a right angle. Though the limbs are straight, the angles are oval-shaped and not round. According to the source , the pasterns, sloping part of foot found between fetlock and hook, are springy and valiant, and they form a twenty-five degrees angle from vertical. Also, with regards to Hind Quarters, a pure german Shepherd would possess broad and muscular hindquarters where the upper thigh could subsequently meet the lower thigh in ninety degrees. The size of the head also matters and ought to be proportionate to the entire body size having a keen and intelligent expression. The head of a male German Shepherd dog is distinctly masculine, whereas the head is distinctly feminine in the case of a bitch female dog. The head is carried forward so high by the dog in times of great excitement and attention. Finally, the common expression is said to be quite composed as well as intelligent. Ears There are a few considerations to be kept in mind while reviewing the originality of the dog from its ears. The first consideration is regarding the drooping of the ears in puppies of every breed. Many proud German shepherd owners share for other breed puppies; the ears droop may be sideways while for pure German Shepherd, the ears droop straight downwards. As the pup grows to become an adult dog, it can be spotted in an instant because of the shape and sharpness of the ears. The size of the ears will also be proportional to the size of the entire head. READ : Top 10 interactive puzzle toys for german shepherds 5. Eyes The eyes of each dog have many stories to say. This adage applies to the breed of German Shepherd too, and one can judge if a dog is a purebred original one, with its eyes also. They do not protrude but are set slightly oblique. The color of the eyes is also preferred to be as dark in complexion as possible. Teeth The ideal original German Shepherd jaw has forty-two teeth, with the dentition, being twenty-two in the lower jaw, and twenty in the upper jaw. The upper and lower jaws are also strongly developed and have their blend in a scissors-bite. There are preferences in choosing with respect to dentition. Complete dentition is always desired and preferred. In the same way, a dog with an undershot bite cannot be considered as well. Coat Facts show that an ideal dog from a German shepherd breed has a double coat, which is of medium length and can be wiry too. But, most importantly, the double layer of coat needs to be plush, implying that a fluffy coat must be found beneath the outer coat, which in turn gives the fur some volume. However, shorter coats are also accepted from standards. With regards to the outer coat, it has to be as voluminous as possible, roughly textured, and in close association with the body. Feet According to a reliable source , the feet of the original German Shepherd is usually short, round, and possess compact and well-arched toes. The footpads are tough and thick, but not rough or chapped. The footpads are also short, and the nails are dark, small, and strong. Also, the dewclaws might be found in the hind legs but shall be removed-front dewclaws are not removed usually but can be removed. The rear dewclaws must be removed, if any is found, in a few days after the birth. Gait As per official AKC standard , German Shepherd dogs are basically trotting dogs that have a greater outreach and an effortless stride where the maximum possible ground is covered with minimal effort. Thus, the gait of a dog, for it to be original German Shepherd, must be smooth, effortless, and in a rhythmic pattern which is accomplished with the hindquarters offering a mighty forward leap, that marginally lifts the dog and takes the body forward. Tail The tail of an original German shepherd is fluffy, set smoothly into the hindquarters with the last vertebra extending till the hock joint. Also, if the dog rests, the tail must hang in a smooth slight curve like a sword. Meanwhile, if the dog is in motion, the tail lifts and raises with a highly pronounced curve. Also, it is a must to consider the fact that the tail must never curl forward beyond the demarcated vertical line. The amount of excitement, loyalty, assistance, commitment, intelligence offered by it is simply awe-inspiring. But, one must carefully analyze their physical features like gait, eyes, ears, head, foot, etc. Now that you have known about all the relevant information, we are sure you will be able to get the purebred dog easily. You may also check out different varieties of original german shepherd dogs before buying the right one! Are German Shepherds Dangerous? They have a strong bond with the entire family and are untrustful of strangers. Also, German Shepherds are very protective of their families and their property, so if you are entirely new to this breed, you may need to reach out for added expert advice. Purebred German Shepherds are intelligent Due to their high intelligence, they are preferred as working dogs in police departments, rescue teams, and search crews. If you think your puppy can pick up your training quickly, chances are they may have a lot of German Shepherd DNA in him! Regardless, you will need to keep them disciplined and mentally stimulated. Can They Outsmart You? Purebred German Shepherds are naturally protective and possessive German Shepherds are extremely protective and loyal dogs, especially when it comes to their families and their territory. This trait will quickly manifest itself as protectiveness when a potential enemy is approaching. That said, a purebred German Shepherd will intimidate a potential threat to its owners and their property without questions. Consult experts Another great way to check if your dog is a purebred German Shepherd or not is to ask experts, such as veterinarians or previous owners. A skilled veterinarian can give you plenty of valuable insight into this breed. They can inform you of the physical characteristics of German Shepherds and their most common traits. A breeder can also help answer any questions you may have about your German Shepherd. You will want to get a puppy from an American Kennel Club licensed breeder. A previous German Shepherd owner could grasp what a purebred dog looks and behaves like. However, this method may be unreliable, as many mixed breeds seem to look and behave like a purebred GSD would. Check the registration certificate if you have it If you purchase a purebred German Shepherd from a reputable breeder, you should get a registration certificate. Use dog identification apps Using dog identification apps is an innovative way to help you identify the breed of your dog by scanning a picture of a dog. All you have to do is to submit a picture of your pooch taken from your phone. Then these apps will do their analysis and return a short description of the breed as well as a match percentage of the breed. Of course, these apps may be a little more than a fun video game and are not as accurate as DNA tests. Besides taking a picture, you can also record a video or upload an image from your gallery. Share your results and compare them to the results of the community! Upload pictures of your favorite dog to our Social Feed and share them with other dog lovers! Have a look at the profiles and photos of other users, like and comment on posts from our dog community and filter them by date or popularity! All types of dogs are supported — mutts and purebreds, and everything in between. DogDNA Identify dog breeds by uploading a picture from your camera or photo library. We use advanced computer vision dog breed identifier technology to analyze the pictures and provide results on the possible breeds your dog could be. Conclusion Regardless of the result, your new furry friend deserves all of your love. Bon is a dog lover and a blogger. He loves spending time with dogs more than with humans. You will find him training himself for the next marathon when he is not writing. This is because there are several other dog breeds with similar characteristics, like the Belgian Malinois, the Bohemian Shepherd, and the Dutch Shepherd, among a few others. There are also different types of German Shepherds , such as the working lines and show lines which have slightly different appearances. However, that does not mean identifying a purebred German Shepherd cannot be done. Test the DNA When you are grappling with the question of how to know if your German Shepherd is original, taking a DNA test on your dog is not something you want to do as a first option. Because DNA tests and test kits have a hefty price tag. The most straightforward bet when taking a DNA test on your German Shepherd is to purchase a test kit and follow the instructions on the package. Package the swab with the DNA sample in the provided sealable bag and mail it for testing. If you seek greater accuracy, go for the 2-pack option and use both with your GSD to check the consistency of results. You can identify if your German Shepherd is purebred by assessing your dog for these coat features. The outer coat should be dense, even though a somewhat wavy outer coat is permissible. The hairs at the neck are longer and thicker, while those on the head, fore face, and inside the ears are short. The paws and legs also have short hair, but you may notice slightly longer hair at the rear of the legs, on the hock, and along the pastern. Coat Color The coat colors of the German Shepherd are varied. The black and tan, sable , black and red, bi-color, and solid black variants are among the most common German Shepherd coat colors. The AKC advocates for strong-rich colors and disqualifies blue , livers, white , and faded German Shepherd coat colors even though GSDs with these colors can still be registered. Variations in German Shepherd coat standards should suggest the need to consider more than just the coat type and fur patterns when trying to make out if your German Shepherd is an original. Some of the distinctive physical features of the German Shepherd you should look for include the following characteristics. Other features of a strong-build purebred German Shepherd you should notice include: An even built hindquarter and the forequarter. A noble look with a well-defined feminine or masculine gait for either case. A deep and narrow chest with sloping shoulders and front legs. Pointed Ears The pointy ears of a German Shepherd are among its most popular signature features. The GSD typically carries its ears erect, with the ear ends parallel to each other and vertical to the ground. But the ears of your German Shepherd may not stand erect until the teething period is over. If your GSD is at that teething stage, which ends around weeks 16 and 20, check to see if your dog has erect ears when it hears a sound, barks, or gets excited. Note that floppy ears in adult purebred German Shepherds can be a sign of ill health or the outcome of grooming routines. Also, breed standards usually disqualify a GSD with docked ears. A Long Bushy Tail The German Shepherd has a full and long bushy tail with the last interlocking bone extending to the hock joint. The tail is carried low rather than high and is smoothly set into the rump. A purebred German Shepherd should not carry the tail curled forward as though fearful. The curve can be more pronounced when the dog is excited or moving. You can read about the meaning of German Shepherd tail positions in this article. A long and strong muzzle with a topline parallel to the skull. A black nose. A strong and muscular neck with smooth skin and no loose skin folds. Notice Their Temperament and Behavior Your purebred German Shepherd will present as a confident, fearless, and alert dog. Timidity, nervousness, and anxiety are not part of the intelligent and agile German Shepherd, originally bred as a herding dog. Any characterizing tendency to flee and hide behind the owner or handler should suggest that the dog is not a purebred German Shepherd. While your purebred dog will be friendly and loyal to you, it will show some aloofness towards strangers without, however, being aggressive or showing a lack of confidence. That could leave you wondering how a dog registration certificate can help identify a purebred German Shepherd. That should tell you if both parents of your German Shepherd were of the same breed or not. However, the information given to a dog registry is self-reported by the owner or breeder. The registry does not do background research to confirm the details but instead relies on the honesty of the breeder or owner. Experts with extensive knowledge about the breed are mainly veterinarians. Talk to a German Shepherd Breeder To determine if your German Shepherd is purebred, talk to a reputable breeder with years of experience with the breed. Reputable German Shepherd breeders will give you reliable info about: German Shepherd dog personality and temperament. German Shepherd registration and pedigree papers, especially if you are considering buying your GSD from the breeder. Talk to a German Shepherd Owner Someone who has owned a purebred German Shepherd for years has observed their physical and personality traits and can offer you valuable information about the breed. Go for a purebred German Shepherd owner whose dog you like and looks healthy and well cared for. Fulfilled GSD owners will be glad to tell you about their furry companions and probably show you photos and videos of their growth journey. Videos and photos of another purebred German Shepherd can give you specific details about physical features and temperament traits that you can look out for in your own dog. Original sketch of my German Shepherd Willow Talk to a Veterinarian Veterinarians not only deal with many dog breeds, but they also attend to many dogs of the same breed. As such, they have mastered characteristics proper to the GSD and will give you purebred German Shepherd facts and proofs from their own experience. Suppose you already own the dog that you are trying to identify as purebred. Alternatively, you can explain to the vet features and behaviors you have observed in your dog and have the vet tell you if they are typical of the breed. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. Conclusion 1. That said there are additional benefits to getting a DNA test for your pup and these tests are out there and readily available. All you need to do is purchase a kit online. Although the kit will likely come with two swabs, each kit is only meant to test a sample from one dog. These kits usually include sealable plastic bags to place the swabs in and a pre-paid return box or envelope. When we think of the typical German Shepherd, we think of tan coloring with black facial and saddle markings. The coat is typically dense and short and lies close to the body. This more typical look is only one of many of the purebred German Shepherd. A purebred German Shepherd can have three different varieties of coats, which are the double coat, the plush coat, and the long-haired coat. The double coat is considered the standard of the German Shepherd coats, although many German Shepherds that are kept as family pets have a long-haired coat. Regardless, German Shepherds shed regularly throughout the year and require regular brushing and grooming. While the typical and often preferred coloring of the German Shepherd is tan and black, look for other variants in coloring. The next most common coloring of the German Shepherd is pure black, along with black and cream, black and red, black and silver, bi-color, blue, gray, liver, sable and white. Other Physical Characteristics There is a multitude of other physical characteristics that immediately makes a purebred German Shepherd stand apart from other dogs. These include: Distinct, pointed ears. This means your German Shepherd is going through the puberty stage, where they are teething as well as growing and developing cartilage in their ears. Along with the distinctly pointed ears comes the distinct German Shepherd head tilt which fans of this breed also tend to adore. A strong, proportioned build. Part of the reason the German Shepherd makes an excellent working dog is due to its strong, tall build. A typical German Shepherd is up to 26 inches tall and weighs somewhere between 77 and 85 pounds. A typical German Shepherd puppy weighs up to 10 pounds in the first month and reaches close to 60 pounds by the time they are six months old. A full, long, bushy tail. This is another cherished physical feature of the German Shepherd. When the German Shepherd is resting, their bushy tail tends to hang low to the ground. Behavioral Characteristics Putting aside their physical features, German Shepherds are largely known for certain behavioral characteristics — both positive and negative. These behavioral characteristics include: A high energy level. German Shepherds need a ton of daily exercise and preferably a backyard to let off some steam in-between walks. A strong sense of loyalty. They can be extremely protective of their families if they feel threatened which means that German Shepherds may not necessarily be the best choice for someone with no experience with dogs. A high level of intelligence. German Shepherds are extremely smart, making them excellent working dogs. You often see German Shepherds doing important jobs like assisting police in drug-sniffing and security and aiding in search and rescue. German Shepherds benefit from training and obedience classes which also help keep your dog stimulated and entertained. A sense of possession. As previously mentioned, German Shepherds are extremely protective and loyal dogs, especially when it comes to their families. If your family is looking for a guard dog, a German Shepherd is definitely an excellent option. Due to their sense of possession, German Shepherds are also great dogs for herding sheep. Your German Shepherd may be fantastic with you and your kids but act standoffish or protective around other adults or children. This is where additional training is necessary to make sure that your German Shepherd is not acting unnecessarily aggressive or territorial. Asking Questions The simplest way to identify a German Shepherd? Ask questions! There are a variety of different sources you can ask about the German Shepherd, including: Talking with a breeder. Find a reputable German Shepherd breeder and ask as many questions as you can about the German Shepherd. Unfortunately, a breeder may not be completely forthcoming about negative information so really dig deep about the breeder before purchasing your German Shepherd puppy. Talking with a German Shepherd owner. Speak with someone that you know has a German Shepherd and ask questions. That said, exercise caution when doing so as the German Shepherd may not be overly accepting of a stranger approaching their owner. Talking with a veterinarian. Veterinarians can provide all kinds of valuable information about German Shepherds. If you already have a dog that you believe to be a German Shepherd but are unsure, ask your veterinarian to give you their opinion on whether they believe the dog to be so. Downloading an app. You are now able to download a dog breed identification app to identify a large variety of dog breeds. Additional Identifying Factors An additional identifying factor is unfortunately the genetic health concerns that come along with German Shepherds. German Shepherds are prone to certain health conditions, some more so than other breeds. These health conditions include degenerative myelopathy and hip and elbow dysplasia. Ask your vet about their experience in regards to German Shepherds and whether or not they think this breed would be a good fit for you. Conclusion German Shepherd or not, there are so many wonderful breeds of dogs out there that have an incredible amount to offer you and your family. Mary Nielsen I grew up in a household that was filled with animals. I believe that my fate as a dog-loving person was sealed in early childhood since my parents owned several dogs of varying sizes and breeds. As a life-long puppy lover, I know a thing or two about dogs and how to go about caring for them in the best way possible. Along with my husband, Dave, I run MySweetPuppy for like-minded dog lovers who want to have a single, clear, and reliable information source about anything and everything related to dogs and their well-being. Buy a German Shepherd puppy that should be at least 35 days-old or 40 days-old. Show Line German Shepherds have an angulated back that slopes from high to low as you go from shoulders to rear end, but the Working Line German Shepherds backs are less sloped as compared to Show Line German Shepherds. Color Though German Shepherds are found in many colors, but the most common colors are: Black and tan. Pure black. Pure white. As the puppy will grow, the tan or orangish color will grow upward from claws to body. Some White Line German Shepherds have wolfish gray color as well. As German Shepherd puppy grows its ears droop straight whereas ears of other breeds droop sideways. The distance or gap between the ears of Germans Shepherd is less as compared to other breeds. White Spots When it comes to purity check, the white spots on German Shepherds have always been a debate. To clear your doubt you can carry a DNA test for the identification of breed and ancestry. German Shepherd puppies do have white spots on paws, legs and upper chest. Always remember that these white spots on paws, legs and upper chest will not make German Shepherd impure, it is normal. Some white spots perish naturally as the puppy grows. After 30 years a German Shepherd won this title again, and interestingly this dog has a white spot on his chest. Normally it takes 2 to 3 weeks for your sample to reach the lab. Once it reaches the lab you get customized comprehensive online report. These Dog DNA tests help you to better understand your dog and provide the best possible care, food, training etc, that it deserves. We hope these guidelines will help you to identify the purity of the German Shepherd puppy. Share your feedback in the comments section below. Also Read.

Type And Materials The material used to make dog toys affects their safety and durability. It makes it long-lasting enough even for rough play. Always check labels on stuffed toys to ensure they meet safety standards and do not contain dangerous fillings. It provides a gentle chewing experience promoting dental health without choking. Safety And Durability Labs are powerful chewers. Find toys made from high-quality materials like durable nylon bones or sturdy rubber. The best dog toys will stand up to their strong jaws without breaking into small pieces. Teething chew toys should be gentle on their developing gums but tough enough to endure the constant gnawing. Avoid thin rubber squeaky-type toys because they can easily break apart or get swallowed. Quality And Price As a devoted dog owner, you might be tempted to buy the most affordable dog toys. However, balance quality and price when choosing toys for your labrador retriever. Investing in top-notch Lab puppy toys ensures you get long-lasting products. Choose toys with different textures and shapes, as the same toy can become boring. Pick toys that are easy to clean and avoid toys with small parts. Puppies have different chew strengths than adult dogs. Therefore, teething toys will work well for puppies. Durable rope or tug toys are also appropriate for young adult dogs. Soft durable rubber balls or puzzle treat dispensers cater to mental and physical stimulation. They keep the puppy entertained in safe ways. Invest in rope and woven toys with knotted ends perfect for tug-of-war games. They offer interesting textures to chew on and keep the pet busy. Besides, textures like ribbed rubber or bumpy surfaces can stimulate their senses. Opt for machine-washable toys that can easily be wiped down with soap and water. An easy-to-clean toy is the Kong Classic Dog Toy. Made of durable rubber, it can be hand washed or placed in the dishwasher for hassle-free cleaning. Another option is rope toys. They can be thrown into the washing machine and dried afterward. Lab pups are instinctive to chew on things, so choose appropriate toys. It had a small hole in the surface. The toy got stuck in his throat, and thankfully, they could remove it before any serious harm. Interactive And Mental Stimulation Toys For Lab Puppies Labrador puppies need interactive and mental stimulation toys to keep them entertained and engaged. But the best part? It is made from durable materials and is a safe puppy toy. Not only will your growing puppy be entertained, but also improve their cognitive abilities! My own Lab puppy loves this toy — it has become his go-to whenever he wants some fun playtime. The Sensory Ball Toy is a popular toy used for sensory stimulation. This interactive toy keeps your puppy interested with different textures, colors, scents and tastes. This ball promotes physical activity while improving mental health. Its chew-resistant design and high-quality materials can withstand even aggressive dog chews. Hol-ee Roller can also be used as a treat dispenser puzzle ball. It provides extra entertainment and mental fitness for your pup. This dog treats dispensing ball provides mental stimulation and rewards during playtime. This innovative toy is included in the 29 best interactive dog toys list. While providing a mix of mental stimulation and rewards, note that this may not be suitable for all puppies. The squeaky feature will keep your dog entertained and engaged as they figure out how to access it. Kong is world-renowned for its best dog toys, providing natural enrichment and play. One popular option among pet parents is filling Kong toys with peanut butter as a happy distraction for their dogs. This ball is made from a tough and flexible material, making it perfect for a game of dog soccer. Since balls are versatile, they also provide opportunities for fetching, gnawing, bouncing, pawing, and chasing fun! We have curated a list of the best puppy toys for Lab at weeks old, months old, and months old. Puppies at this age explore the world through their mouths and chew on anything they can access. Providing them with specific puppy toys that cater to their chewing instincts soothes their gums and provides mental stimulation. Safety is key during this stage, so avoid small parts or loose threads that may pose choking hazards. Encourage socialization through interactive ball play or gentle tug-of-war games with a teething toy. They may also start teething heavily during this time. Puzzle treat toys keeps them occupied and mentally stimulated while promoting healthy teeth growth. Sensory balls like the Chuckit! Ultra Ball or Hol-ee Roller can provide both physical exercise and mental stimulation. They add different shapes and textures to playtime. They may have a higher play drive and require many toys that can withstand rougher play sessions. Ropes are a great option. Interactive puzzle games will be highly beneficial as your Lab becomes more intelligent. During the month-old stage, continue supervising chew toy usage as adult teeth start replacing puppy ones between months old. FAQ on best puppy toys for labs What can 8-week-old puppies chew on? At 8 weeks old, puppies are teething and need safe chew toys to relieve discomfort. Soft rubber, nylon, and rope toys are good options for your chewing puppy. Avoid giving them anything that can break into small pieces and pose a choking hazard. What do Labradors like the most? Labradors are known for their love of food and play. They enjoy activities like retrieving, swimming, and playing fetch. They also love spending time with their humans and receiving attention and affection. At what age do Labrador puppies calm down? Labrador puppies can be high-energy and excitable, but they typically start to calm down around years. However, every dog is different; some may remain energetic well into their senior years. What toy should I give to my puppy? Choose something safe and durable that they can chew on and play with. Soft rubber puppy toys, chew bones, and puzzle and interactive dog toys are good options. What should I get my puppy to chew on? Puppies need safe and durable chew toys to satisfy their natural urge to chew. Look for soft rubber or nylon toys, specifically for teething puppies. How do you stimulate a Labrador puppy? Labrador puppies are intelligent and energetic. They need plenty of physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Activities like playing fetch, walking, and learning new tricks keep them engaged and stimulated. How do you entertain a lab puppy? Labrador puppies need plenty of physical and mental stimulation to stay entertained. Activities like playing fetch, walking, and learning new tricks can help keep them engaged and stimulated. Are Labs clingy dogs? Labradors are known for their friendly and sociable nature. They often form strong bonds with their humans. While they may enjoy spending time with their dog owners, they are generally not considered clingy dogs. With extensive research and personal experiences, Aritra has become a Labrador expert, offering a rich resource on the breed. The site serves as a comprehensive resource, offering a wealth of up-to-date information for Labrador owners and enthusiasts alike. This toy is not only indestructible, but it can keep your puppy busy for hours. You can stuff yummy treats, soft food, beef jerky, peanut butter or Kong stuffing into the Kong toy and freeze it. You can fill the Kong toy every evening, and give the frozen toy to your puppy before you leave for work. Because the stuffing is frozen, it makes the yummy treats more difficult to get out and in turn keeps your puppy interested for much longer. There is also the extra benefit of soothing their itchy gums while going through the teething phase. The Kong toy is also a lot of fun to play fetch with, as it bounces into unpredictable directions. Balls — Fetching and Treat releasing You could also buy your Labrador balls of different variations. Tennis balls are an old favorite. However, some Labradors show more interest in balls that make noises. For instance, a ball that has a few bells in it or one that squeaks can be far more exciting for your dog, as they tend to get bored quickly. Because Labradors are natural retrievers, a ball or something to chase down will always be a good choice. There are also treat balls available, which you can fill with small training treats and your puppy can roll the ball around to release the treats inside. Automatic Ball Throwers Not there to throw a ball all day? No problem. You can invest in an automatic tennis ball launcher which works wonders to keep your puppy entertained and out of trouble. The introduction to an automatic ball thrower should be done in the most positive way possible. Get your puppy super excited about the machine and reward it for retrieving the ball. Rope Toys Rope toys are also a favorite for most Labradors because they usually love playing tug. My Labrador is sadly the only dog in my household that loves this game, which means he never gets any of the other dogs to participate in tugging, and I keep drawing the short straw there. Stuffed or Soft Toys Some Labradors adore their stuffed toys! Stuffed toys can be anything from a teddy bear to a soft bone with a squeaky whistle in them. If your Labrador is a heavy chewer, make sure to watch that it does not destroy the soft toy. They usually enjoy ripping open the toy and taking out all the stuffing, leaving quite a mess behind. Chews Another great helper to curb destructive chewing is the old faithful cow hoof. Rawhide chews are also a popular choice to keep your puppy happily chewing, however, make sure that your vet is in agreement with this, as some vets advise against using these chews. Keeping Toys Interesting During my dog training studies, I have also learned that rotating toys are very important. I always made sure to leave at least 3 toys of different variations at a time, for instance, a soft toy, a rope, and a ball. You can keep toys interesting by using scents on them. Although Labradors are not as scent orientated as some of the scent hounds would be, they still have fantastic noses and appreciate scented toys. These scents can range from Lavender, Lemongrass or Citrus to blood scents and deer urine. The scent can make an otherwise unwanted toy seem like the best thing on earth to your dog. Many of these scents have shown to be therapeutic in reducing stress or giving comfort to your dog. Before you think that giving your Labrador so many variations of toys are spoiling them, we can assure you that it is not so much spoiling than it is preventative measures to keep your sprinkler system, plants, furniture and car bumper yes, that happens in tact. Every dog has a preference for toys, so make sure you buy the toys your dog enjoys playing with. For a Labrador puppy, most toys are exciting and fun, so you cannot go wrong with any of the toys mentioned above. Your 8 to 12 week old puppy is still growing rapidly and needs lots of rest. But she is also going to be understandably anxious at her sudden change in living situation. The best interactive toy puppy options for this stage are going to be simple toys to keep your puppy busy without letting her get close enough to you or other family members to sink in a good sharp puppy bite! For obvious reasons, rawhide chews, strong rope toys, fetch toys , leash training toys and other puppy toys that keep those small but sharp puppy canines away from your hands and face are also ideal at this stage. She is also growing bigger and stronger physically. And she wants to play all the time, which for a puppy typically means rough housing, growling and oh yay biting. Also, during this period your little pup will be teething mightily as her baby teeth fall out and her adult teeth start to push their way up through the gums to grow in. So she will not only want but will need to bite just about anything that looks bite-able to alleviate the soreness and pain she feels in her teeth and gums. You will also want to identify the best puppy toys for teething and get a few — pronto! The best puppy toys for teething will be responsive enough so that your puppy can experience some relief from her growing mouth tenderness. But also durable enough not to come apart in her mouth, where there is a risk she would swallow them and have intestinal blockages or worse. They will also, ideally, be freezer-friendly, since the cold can provide its own form of soothing pain relief. She will have survived a change of household, loss of her baby teeth, emergence of her adult teeth and much more. This is a great time period to introduce more complex interactive puppy toys for boredom, treat finding, slow feeding, and puzzle solving. As she grows, her playtime and toy needs may change again, and you may even discover she falls in love with a puppy toy you never thought she would like. Happily, there are plenty of great puppy toys to choose from. This Kong classic for adult dogs now comes in a size perfect for your puppy as well. The rubber is safe for dogs and especially designed for the teething needs of large breed puppies. You can fill the interior with a variety of soft and tasty treats. Kong Wubba Kong Puppy Wubba. The Wubba has two balls and four long tails for self-play and interactive play. The Kong Company also recommends plush Kong toys for young puppies due to the high comfort factor. These must be used under supervision, but many puppies enjoy cuddling and snuggling with their plush Kongs. As your puppy grows up, he will become more eager to play and run and romp. This puppy flyer toy will encourage his natural retrieving instincts during interactive play while keeping your hands and his sharp puppy teeth far apart. This wonderful Kong toy is especially designed to ease the mouth aches that your little dog will be feeling during some months in this period of his life. These toys also make fabulous freezable puppy teething toys. Kong designed this toy to help your puppy through his teething months and emerge with the healthiest possible gums and teeth. These tennis balls are perfect for games of fetch and make a wonderfully motivating squeaking sound when they are retrieved. Kong Wubba Kong Wubba for Dogs. The Kong Wubba for adult dogs is more durable and also larger than the same toy made for puppies. Also, there is a great deal of variety in this toy line, including wet and dry Wubbas and different configurations for different types of interactive play. This toy is also made especially to promote good oral hygiene and healthy teeth and gums. You can fill it with soft treats or kibble. Puppy Teething Toys Just for a moment, think back to the last time you had a dental checkup. You probably had your teeth cleaned, right? And the well-meaning but extra-thorough hygienist likely used that horrid little metal hook to clean out all the plaque along your gum line. What did your teeth and gums feel like later? Were they super-sore and very uncomfortable? This is an approximation of the discomfort your puppy might be feeling during his teething months. Teething is just not going to show you the best side of your little dog. Part of what he needs from you is compassion and understanding. But mostly, he needs the right puppy toys for teething that can help to ease his discomfort until the teething process ends. Many puppy teething toys include freezer-friendly options to provide extra pain relief, just like a icy cold pack can temporarily ease and numb sore areas for you. The Nylabone Company specializes in making toys for chewing and teething. You can opt for their traditional teething rings or make a more ferocious choice, like the Nylabone T-Rex chew toy. These toys are suitable in size for a puppy and come highly praised by dog owners. There are three different toy sets you can choose from. The material is very durable percent cotton and there are no small parts that your dog could tear off and swallow. You can also pop these in the freezer for extra teething relief. This bone-shaped teething toy is a great shape for your still-growing lab puppy to grip it in his jaws and chew with gusto — especially if you freeze the bone for him first! The toy is made of durable, safe canvas to withstand vigorous teething-related chewing. So long as your dog remains 70 lbs. This toy comes in a set of a ball and a bone together. This adorable rope giraffe is so cute you might not want to let your dog chew it! Luckily, the rope is really durable and features knots to help massage away teething pain and tooth plaque all in one. This toy is also offered in other styles, including a horse, a lion and several more standard-looking rope-like configurations. One of the main benefits this toy offers is durability. These rope toys come in a set of four different styles. They are best for your puppy when he is younger under six months due to size, not durability. They come with a carry bag as well. This cheery and colorful toy takes a different approach to chewing, especially for teething-related chewing. The whole toy is encased in a freezable outer layer that actually crunches as your dog chews on it. The Nylabone Company has another hit toy on their hands with this wishbone chew toy. In a fun twist, the bristles in this nylon toy remain hidden until your dog starts a chew session. Then they raise up to help clean his teeth and massage his gums. If there is one toy that simply seems tailor-made for Labrador retrievers, it is this hide-a-squirrel squeaking toy. Your lab will likely display a ready instinct for retrieval the moment he can keep all four legs steady beneath him. This toy introduces him to the joys of hunting and retrieving in a safe, soft, squeakable toy treasure. You can also get the hedgehog, bird, or bee versions or all four! As your puppy grows, he will be making new neural connections on a daily basis. So the more chances you can give him to exercise his developing brain as well as his growing body, the smarter and more healthy and resilient he will become as an adult dog. All these factors make this mind games puzzle toy a perfect choice. It is treat-based and has strong suction cups to hold it in place while your dog figures out how it works. This creative and unique interactive toy from Ethical Pet Company is designed to eliminate boredom. It provides mental stimulation from solving the puzzle along with physical stimulation from trying to get the treats out. Another hit toy from Ethical Pets, this amazing ball offers several levels of interactive sensory stimulation and play all in one simple ball-shaped toy. The toy itself emits a mouth-watering beef flavor and has three different sensory textures on the layers that surround the ball. You can enjoy hours of fun together and your dog can also find comfort in this toy during naps and alone time. Many times puppies will get used to being fed frequently in small portions. Then they will struggle digestively at first when transitioning to an adult dog feeding schedule. One of the biggest challenges your puppy is likely to face during this transitional stage is simply portion size. Instead of being fed in small frequent portions, a growing puppy will now be offered less frequent but larger portions. Here, a treat ball or slow feeder puzzle toy is of particular benefit. These toys are also great because they are interactive and fun! Hol-ee Roller J. This popular toy offers a two-fer for your puppy during playtime. If he is teething, the ball has a special open design to provide chewing relief. You can also insert kibble or soft treats inside the toy for emotional relief. This toy is great for both solo play and interactive play. This wildly popular treat ball holds a little less than a cup of kibble or soft treat foods. This super-cool interactive puzzle toy will likely get your dog hooked on puzzle toys. This bright orange colored treat ball is made of durable yet pliable vinyl and dotted with holes where small treats like kibble can fall out during play. It is easy to fill and clean and your puppy will get the hang of it in no time. They entice speed and movement, promoting healthy exercise. Puzzles Puzzle games challenge your Lab mentally, engaging them in a task. Treat Toys Treat toys are generally balls or nuts that you can put yummy snacks inside. This encourages your dog to play, making reaching the toys a challenge. Material Rubber Rubber toys tend to be very durable and long-lasting. Granted, all rubber is made differently. However, it is built to withstand some pretty heavy chewing. Also, rubber is bouncy, and if your dogs love chasing things, this material is probably right up their alley. Lots of squeaky toys and plushies require the fabric to make them soft and desirable. Stitching is fundamental on fabric. Plastic Plastic is a highly used but questionable material in dog toys. Be careful of small pieces or toxic ingredients. Certain toys have small pieces or internal components that can be dangerous or toxic for your dog. You should always buy toys based on the activity level of your Lab so you know how quickly the toys will be destroyed. Also, some toys contain potentially toxic or dangerous ingredients if they are ingested. These could include tiny sharp pieces of metal or plastic, lights, internal mechanisms, stuffing, and certain types of plastic. Even though some canines can be hard to buy for, you can shop around to find the type of composition and strength you need. Quality Quality is an important factor to consider, especially when combined with safety concerns. Image Credit: Bohdan Malitskiy, Shutterstock Price Everyone has a budget, especially when it comes to items like dog toys. Luckily, dog toys are cheap enough to buy a small item here and there and fit just about any budget. It is a fun, interactive piece that you can hit refills for ultimate usability. Ultra Ball is a super big savings we think your lab will love. You can even splurge and get the launcher eventually if you want to challenge your dog to a longer distance. No matter what toy you choose, your dog will have a blast. We hope these reviews helped you find a toy your Lab will love. A mother to four human children— and 23 furry and feathery kids, too — Ashley volunteers at local shelters, advocates for animal well-being, and rescues every creature she finds. Her mission is to create awareness, education, and entertainment about pets to prevent homelessness. Her specialties are cats and dogs.Read more Advertisement.

Next » by docrad on 26 May - I have been on a quest to find a nice german shepherd. You would think that would be easy. I was referred to Mittelwest Kennels in Illinois. With that price in mind, I pictured in my head a really nice kennel. Entering the property with the gate that let you in was impressive, what was not impressive was the kennels itself. After getting a tour of the kennels I noticed that there were dogs sitting in crates in the barn but I did not see any empty kennel runs. I asked about that and was told their kennel was being cleaned, there were not any empty kennels to clean. During my 2 hour visit I seen things that did not impress me. Some dogs did not have water and were panting heavily, fur was a mess. When I returned home I checked her web site out, I should have done this prior to going. There are several litters, lots of litters coming soon. Where are all these puppies going to live? So, can anyone give me their experiences with this kennel and lead me to others if they think I should go somewhere else. Thanks by Blitzen on 26 May - Maybe try to find a local kennel that has fewer dogs and breeds less? If you let us know the general area where you live, someone may have some recommendations for you. I assume you are looking for a German showline? You could also try to find out if there is a local GSD breed club or an all breed club in your area. Many times they can refer you to member breeders. Good luck.If you're looking for a showline, there are 2 breeders in close proximity that I would not hesitate to refer you to. I breed working lines, but I "know" both of these women well enough to recommend them and their dogs.Either is easily found online. If you are not set on showlines, I might have something for you in the near future, but that would really depend on what your plans were for the dog. My contact info is in my profile if you want further info, but living in the same area as Mittlewest and the others I mentioned has given me a pretty good idea of where I would and would not send someone for a SL puppy. I've sold a few dogs to people who previously owned dogs from Mittelwest. I would buy this dog if the plumbing were different. In fact, I was planning on buying one of these, but alas, nature does not take puppy orders. This is a super opportunity. That is good use of this forum. They both live in Lake county so they are local. If you are looking for a working line dog Zyta and Seastian Piotrowski out around Dekalb have some that you should consider. Zyta also trains, handles and titles all her own dogs. I recently sent and LE officer to her for a family dog and he is very happy with his pup she may still have some I'm not sure. Decide what you want to do with your pup, how much time and effort you want to put into training and let the breeder whoever it is know, so they can match you up with the correct pup. Good luck Trudy by nanu on 27 May - by gsddreamer on 05 June - My boy is going to be 21 months this month. When I first got him I was going there on a regular basis for training and never saw a bunch of dogs sitting in crates. I started going again for ring training and again haven't seen that. My boy is from Mittelwest but he actually was born at the dam's owne'rs home and was with them till I got him at 2 months old. It seems to me that all the owners want are the puppies from these poor animals and don't give a damn about the animals themselves!! Isn't that being nothing but a glorified puppy mill???? The cruelty is unforgivable!! I'd love to see the owners in crates, without water, living in their own waste and being bred over, and over!! As 2 Investigator Pam Zekman reports, the outbreak happened this year with dogs from a local breeder. Puppies for sale at Mittelwest Shepherds in Wonder Lake are either bred on site or imported from Germany. And my only thought he was gonna die. Mittelwest's owner Julie Martinez blamed the German breeder that the puppy originally came from. It's not something that could have been foreseen," said Martinez. McHenry County Animal Control reports include a violation warning for "failing to provide veterinary care" for two puppies. It gave the breeder 24 hours to take the puppies to a veterinarian. They were taken to the vet and tested positive for parvo the next day. Experts say getting puppies with parvo symptoms to a vet fast is critical because it's highly contagious. Seven puppies in one litter all died at Mittelwest this year. In all CBS 2 can confirm more than a dozen puppies got parvo. In February, the Illinois Department of Agriculture placed a quarantine on the facility that meant none of the dogs or puppies could be moved or sold. That quarantine was lifted 18 days later by the Department of Agriculture due to the puppies "not showing any signs or symptoms" and Mittelwest "being cleaned and disinfected. But, Megan Swiechichowski purchased her puppy after the quarantine. Three days later it tested positive for parvo. Martinez says she believes Megan's puppy got a false positive, but agreed to pay for the vet bills and refund half Megan's money and all of the Barry's. She also says she routinely provides vet care. Inspectors revisited Mittelwest last week and found no evidence of parvo. More from CBS News.

It lacks the physical deformities bred into western show lines of German Shepherds and has become one of Russia's most popular dog types. It was developed in the s and s to correct behavioural and conformational issues that have been bred into modern German Shepherds, and was bred for its large size, length of back, temperament and soundness of hips. White-coated German Shepherds were once banned from registration in their native Germany, but in the United States and Canada the coloration gained a following and a breed club was formed specifically for white German Shepherds, calling their variety the White Shepherd. The variety is recognised as a separate breed by the United Kennel Club. It descends from the American White Shepherds; the first stud dog of what was to become the breed was an American dog born in and imported to Switzerland. They are especially well known for their police work, being used for tracking criminals, patrolling troubled areas and detection and holding of suspects. Additionally, thousands of German Shepherds have been used by the military. These military working dogs MWD are usually trained for scout duty, and they are used to warn soldiers to the presence of enemies or of booby traps or other hazards. They were used in World War II as messenger dogs, rescue dogs and personal guard dogs. These include search and rescue, cadaver searching , narcotics detection, explosives detection , accelerant detection and mine detection dog, among others. They are suited for these lines of work because of their keen sense of smell and their ability to work regardless of distractions. When formal guide dog training began in Switzerland in the s under the leadership of Dorothy Eustis , all of the dogs trained were German Shepherd females. These results suggested that Labrador Retrievers were more suited to guide dog work while German Shepherds were more suited to police work. They are expected to patrol the boundaries to keep sheep from trespassing and damaging the crops. In Germany and other places these skills are tested in utility dog trials also known as Herdengebrauchshund HGH herding utility dog trials. He is regarded to be the dog who has captured the most drugs in Mexican police and military history. You may improve this section , discuss the issue on the talk page , or create a new section, as appropriate. By this number had grown to over .Returning soldiers spoke highly of the breed and animal actors Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart popularised the breed further. Her offspring had defects as the result of poor breeding, which caused the breed to decline in popularity during the late s. As of [update] , the German Shepherd is the second most popular breed in the US. Degenerative myelopathy , a neurological disease, occurs with enough regularity specifically in the breed to suggest that the breed is predisposed to it. A very inexpensive DNA saliva test is now available to screen for degenerative myelopathy. The test screens for the mutated gene that has been seen in dogs with degenerative myelopathy. The test is only recommended for predisposed breeds, but can be performed on DNA samples from any dog, collected through swabbing the inside of the animal's cheek with a sterile cotton swab. Prospective German Shepherd buyers can now request the test from the breeder or buy from a breeder who is known to test their dogs. Skeletal health and supplementation[ edit ] Musculoskeletal disorders are debilitating conditions that are often associated with genetic makeup, malnutrition, and stress-related events. Canine hip dysplasia CHD is an orthopaedic condition resulting from abnormal development of the hip joint and surrounding tissue causing the instability and partial dislocation of the hip joint, resulting in pain, inflammation , lameness, and potentially osteoarthritis of the joint. Both have stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. A German Shepherd named Inspector Rex is the star of an Austrian Police procedural drama program of the same name, which won many awards, where German Shepherd Rex assists the Vienna Kriminalpolizei homicide unit. It became one of the staple productions of Hungarian television history, making German Shepherds the most popular dog breed in the country ever since. Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. 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 German Shepherd Dog Overview The German Shepherd Dog, recognized as the Alsatian in Great Britain and various parts of Europe, stands as one of the foremost canine breeds globally, often finding its place in the top 10 most favored breeds in the United States. Its distinction and fame can be attributed, in part, to a poignant tale from World War I. Amidst the turmoil of war, Corporal Lee Duncan rescued a young puppy from a war-torn breeding kennel in France. This pup, later named Rin Tin Tin, would become a legendary figure in the entertainment industry, starring in numerous films and amassing an astonishing 10, fan letters weekly during the pinnacle of its stardom. Beyond the silver screen, the German Shepherd has embraced a multitude of roles. From aiding the visually impaired and apprehending criminals to detecting illicit substances and serving in the military, this versatile breed has exhibited its prowess. It has also demonstrated its compassion by visiting the sick and exhibiting its herding instincts with livestock. Originating as herding dogs tasked with day-long duties, they possess substantial energy levels, necessitating ample physical activity and mental stimulation. A lack thereof can lead to undesirable behaviors like excessive barking and destructive chewing. Characterized by an aloof and occasionally wary disposition, they excel as vigilant watchdogs but may not exude the warm welcome typical of a family pet. Nevertheless, early exposure to diverse situations and individuals during puppyhood can cultivate adaptability. Descendants from American breeders often prioritize the pursuit of dog show accolades and distinctive aesthetics, sometimes at the expense of traditional working abilities. These dogs tend to exhibit heightened energy and determination. Thus, a visit to a shelter provides an invaluable opportunity to connect with your potential lifelong companion before making a commitment. German Shepherd Dog Highlights Renowned for their vigor and intellect, German Shepherds thrive when engaged in various activities such as learning, playing, and purposeful tasks. Daily routines should incorporate both physical exercises like jogging and Frisbee, as well as mental challenges like training sessions. The German Shepherd may not be the ideal choice if your schedule frequently keeps you away from home or requires extended absences. When left alone, they can develop feelings of unease or monotony, which might manifest through undesirable behaviors like excessive barking , chewing, and digging. German Shepherds often exhibit an aloof and cautious demeanor towards unfamiliar individuals. Initiating obedience training, commencing with puppy classes, aids in familiarizing them with other dogs and humans, while also instilling fundamental canine etiquette. Crate training proves invaluable not only for housebreaking purposes but also in instilling a sense of tranquility and contentment when separated from their owner. This aspect is particularly significant for the German Shepherd, as they can experience separation anxiety, leading to heightened distress when left alone. While they excel as vigilant watchdogs, it is essential to avoid chaining or tethering the German Shepherd solely for guarding purposes. This practice can result in frustration and potentially aggressive behavior. Optimal living conditions involve indoor coexistence with the family, along with access to a spacious, enclosed yard where they can expend their abundant energy. Consider exploring local shelters or breed-specific rescues for your next furry companion, including German Shepherds. Adopting from these sources before resorting to a breeder not only benefits the dog but also offers a chance to make a meaningful difference. An officer in the German cavalry, Captain von Stephanitz harbored a distinct ambition: to cultivate an unparalleled German herding dog. In preceding centuries, German farmers and their European counterparts relied on dogs to manage and safeguard their livestock. Certain canines gained legendary status for their herding prowess, prompting shepherds to traverse great distances to mate their female dogs with distinguished sires. However, as von Stephanitz astutely observed, the local herding dogs had yet to evolve into a distinct and unified breed. In , upon retiring from his military career, von Stephanitz embarked on a new chapter dedicated to his passion: experimenting with dog breeding to fashion an exceptional German herding dog. Drawing inspiration from the British, renowned for their exceptional herding dogs, von Stephanitz studied various breeding techniques. He traversed Germany, attending dog shows and closely observing German-style herding dogs. Amidst the fine examples he encountered—athletic, intelligent, and capable—he found a crucial element lacking: a single dog that encapsulated all these traits. While von Stephanitz initially intended the breed to excel in herding, the industrialization of Germany led him to envision a different path. Among them was an American corporal from Los Angeles, who rescued a newborn puppy from a war-ravaged kennel in France. However, the aftermath of the war introduced challenges. By , he recognized certain unfavorable traits emerging in German Shepherds, such as poor temperament and dental issues. He instituted a rigorous quality control system, requiring dogs to pass rigorous tests before breeding, assessing intelligence, temperament, athleticism, and overall health. American breeding prioritized appearances and show wins, while German Shepherds from Germany remained steadfast in their working abilities. In the face of performance challenges and genetic health concerns among American-bred dogs, a shift began, with some U. This breed falls squarely within the medium to large dog category, characterized by a strong and robust build that exudes both elegance and power. Adult German Shepherds typically possess a height range of 22 to 26 inches 56 to 66 cm at the shoulders, with males often standing slightly taller than females. However, these measurements may vary based on factors such as genetics, lineage, and geographical regions of breeding. This weight range contributes to their substantial and muscular appearance, reflecting their historical role as herding and working dogs. Their well-proportioned body structure, characterized by a level back, strong hindquarters, and deep chest, further emphasizes their agility and strength. While their imposing stature contributes to their role as capable guardians and protectors, it is important to note that their size is coupled with intelligence and an eager-to-please temperament. This blend of physical prowess and mental acuity positions them as versatile companions, excelling in various roles such as search and rescue, police work, service, and family pets. Maintaining an ideal weight and overall health is crucial for the well-being of German Shepherds. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine veterinary care contribute to their longevity and vitality. These dogs are inclined toward reserve, forming connections not instantly but deeply, and once those bonds are forged, their loyalty knows no bounds. Within their family circle, they exhibit an affable and approachable demeanor, yet when faced with threats, they can transform into stalwart protectors, showcasing their exceptional watchdog abilities. Endowed with remarkable intelligence and trainable instincts, this breed thrives when given a purposeful task—no challenge is too great. However, one aspect that requires careful consideration is their need for companionship and engagement. Prolonged periods of solitude do not align well with their nature. Without the necessary interaction, exercise, and opportunities to engage their sharp minds, they can experience boredom and restlessness. A German Shepherd left under-stimulated and isolated from family activities may resort to undesirable behaviors, such as excessive barking and destructive chewing. In line with all canines, early socialization proves pivotal for a well-rounded development. The German Shepherd should be exposed to diverse people, environments, sounds, and encounters during their formative stages. Such socialization lays the foundation for an adaptable and balanced adult dog, equipped to handle a variety of situations with confidence and ease. By embracing these qualities and providing suitable outlets for their energy and intellect, the German Shepherd can evolve into an outstanding companion and guardian, embodying the best of their remarkable personality traits. German Shepherd Dog Health German Shepherds typically enjoy good health, yet, akin to all breeds, they have susceptibility to specific health conditions. Hip dysplasia can manifest with or without apparent symptoms. Some dogs may display lameness and discomfort in one or both hind legs, with arthritis potentially developing as they age. Screening for hip dysplasia through X-ray assessments is conducted by organizations like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals or the University of Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be used for breeding. The consequence is painful lameness. Veterinary recommendations could encompass surgical intervention or pain management medications. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus Bloat : A life-threatening situation predominantly affecting deep-chested large dogs, bloat occurs when the stomach distends due to gas or air and subsequently twists. Immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent shock and possible fatality. Suspect bloat if your dog exhibits abdominal distension, excessive salivation, retching without vomiting, restlessness, lethargy, and rapid heart rate. Dogs with DM struggle to coordinate hind leg movements, often progressing to an inability to walk. Treatment options are limited, although rare instances might involve vitamin deficiencies, necessitating vitamin supplementation. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency EPI : This genetic pancreatic disorder diminishes digestive enzyme production, leading to impaired food digestion and absorption. Symptoms include gas, appetite loss, weight reduction, altered stools, and increased hunger. Allergies: German Shepherds are susceptible to various allergies encompassing contact and food sensitivities. Indicators may involve persistent scratching, paw licking, and facial rubbing. Consult your vet if such symptoms emerge. This translates to a surplus of energy that necessitates daily exercise for release. Extended periods of solitude without physical exertion can result in issues. Boredom and inactivity pave the way for undesirable behaviors, such as chewing , digging , and barking. To satiate their energetic demands, German Shepherds require both physical engagement jogging, playful sessions at a dog park and mental stimulation participation in agility or obedience competitions. Similar to many herding breeds, German Shepherds have a penchant for vocalization. Furthermore, these dogs have an inclination for chewing, and their formidable jaw strength can swiftly demolish various materials. German Shepherd Dog Feeding Tailoring a diet for a German Shepherd Dog requires consideration of their large size and elevated energy demands. Seeking guidance from your veterinarian or a certified nutritionist is prudent to determine the appropriate nourishment and portion sizes for your German Shepherd. As they progress through puppyhood, adulthood, and senior stages, their dietary requisites will evolve. Remaining attentive to these nutritional shifts is crucial. For German Shepherd puppies, particular attention is necessary when it comes to feeding and physical activity. Their rapid growth between four and seven months leaves them susceptible to bone-related issues. To mitigate such concerns, a high-quality, low-calorie diet is advisable to regulate their growth rate. Grass surfaces are more suitable, and puppy agility with minor jumps is permissible. Cautious portion control is essential to prevent excessive weight gain and potential joint complications. Striking a balance with treats, promoting regular exercise, and adhering to scheduled mealtimes, as opposed to constant access to food, safeguards against overfeeding. By being attentive to their dietary needs and mindful of their activity levels, you can contribute to the well-being and overall health of your German Shepherd. German Shepherd Dog Coat Color And Grooming Originally bred to manage flocks in challenging climates, the German Shepherd boasts a medium-length double coat that suits this task impeccably. This coat serves as a natural shield against rain, snow, and prevents the accumulation of burrs and dirt. The German Shepherd exhibits a diverse range of coat types and colors. The outer layer features dense, straight hair that lies close to the body, occasionally presenting a wavy or wiry texture. Notably, the American Kennel Club does not endorse white as an accepted color for conformation shows, though they remain eligible for other competitions. Prospective German Shepherd owners must brace for hair on various surfaces, from clothing to furniture. While no foolproof remedy exists for shedding, regular brushing , ideally two to three times a week, can help manage the hair situation by capturing more in the brush than on furnishings. A reliable vacuum cleaner also proves advantageous. Despite their shedding reputation, German Shepherds tend to maintain a fairly clean and odor-free disposition. Supplying durable and secure dental chew toys or bones can combat tartar buildup, especially on the back molars. Supplementing this with periodic brushing using a soft toothbrush and dog-specific toothpaste enhances gum and teeth well-being. German Shepherd Dog Children And Other Pets A well-trained German Shepherd that has been exposed to children, especially during their puppyhood, can make an excellent companion for kids. Some liken them to a blend of a caretaker and a guardian, as they exhibit gentleness and protective instincts towards the youngsters within their family. However, given their size, there is a potential for accidental bumps with toddlers or small children. Their reserved demeanor translates into a cautious approach with unfamiliar kids, yet their reliability generally prevails. While not overtly exuberant, German Shepherds can harmoniously coexist with other dogs and pets, provided they receive proper guidance from their early days. In such cases, enlisting the aid of a professional trainer or seeking guidance from the rescue organization, if you obtained the adult German Shepherd from there, can prove beneficial. German Shepherd Dog Rescue Groups Many individuals acquire German Shepherds without a comprehensive grasp of the responsibilities associated with their ownership. A multitude of German Shepherds are seeking adoption or foster care, and numerous breed-specific rescue organizations are spread throughout the nation. Below are a few links to a few of these German Shepherd rescue groups. These pups are incredibly intelligent and capable canines who are ready to work. And German Shepherd puppies are too cute! Remember, you can get any kind of dog, including a GSD, from shelters and rescues, so always adopt! They tend to be one-family pets, meaning they can be suspicious of strangers. Although absolutely gorgeous, Shepherds are shedders to the max. Prepare for a snow globe of hair to poof off your pup any time you give them a big snuggle, which will be more often than not. When you first get your puppy, playing may consist of nipping due to their herding background. When your GSD is fully grown, they may love to wrestle around and forget how big they are. These pups are always up for snuggling with others, including kids and other pets. Softies Who Are Also Busy Bodies If you want a German Shepherd puppy in your life, you have to really want your dog to be a part of every little bit of your daily routine. Morning showers? Your pup will want to sit right outside to make sure you rinse off the soap. Your bed? Highly intelligent and curious, Shepherds want to know what is going on all of the time. German Shepherds will attach at the hip and make the right person the happiest dog parent on the planet. German Shepherd puppy in grass close-up of German Shepherd puppy German Shepherd puppy in profile German Shepherd puppy on rock German Shepherd puppy lying down on lawn German Shepherd puppy looking at camera German Shepherd puppy on snow German Shepherd puppy in yard Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue. Would you adopt a German Shepherd Puppy? Do you have experience with these adorable pups? Let us know in the comments below! Margaret O. I could not be happier. A mentally healthy dog is so important. Our little guy came to us in an unexpected unique way. After a previous family was unable to take him, Jeff called us and asked if we were interested in coming out to meet the puppy that same day! They are willing to sit and talk through any questions you have, they give you a lot of information about the breed, and what to expect when you bring your puppy home. Another big plus for us was seeing that the kennels were clean and all the dogs that we saw looked very healthy. Our puppy was the sweetest when he first met us! He ran up to us, showered us in puppy kisses, and was just overall a happy chill little dude. He just had his first vet appointment and was given a clean bill of health! He is sweet, gentle, and such a fast learner! I have never met any dog with this level of intelligence and at such a young age! We have only had him for 6 days and he has settled in so quick and has already learned basic commands. Thank you so much Jeff and Rhonda for our new little addition to our family! When we first went to meet with them and take a peek at Adrian and Barus litter, we liked that they had all the dogs in the home and the home was clean!!! Adrian had a calm temperament as well as the rest of the dogs. Caught on extremely quick w the training and is extremely good with our young grandchildren. We definitely chose the right breeders. Good communication and great canine genetics are obvious! Response from the owner Thank you so much April for the kind words. Rhonda and I try very hard to make things special for our puppy families. Pride and integrity means everything to us. Rhonda takes care of pupies like her own kids! We have 3 of their dogs one male that is the puppy of untox and panja. H gets to play fight likes that and playing with his ball. Rhonda was spectacular to work with, detailed and friendly. She is one of the most intelligent, healthy puppies we have ever owned and her temperament with our family is world class. When we were looking for a puppy we met with Rhonda and could not of been happier. There dogs were so well behaved, stunningly gorgeous and just wanted to be loved. Exactly what my wife and I were looking for. We all no there is never any guarantees in life when it comes to purchasing a puppy, but I can say we have a true champion in our little Bella. She has been a total blessing since we got her. Thanks Rhonda and Jeff!! Response from the owner.