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The effect is producing a sociable and friendly pet for everyone. Their dog breeding program started in , where the grandmother showed Scottish and Manchester Terriers. Right now, they are breeding fawn and black pugs that abide by the AKC standards. All their pups are raised indoors, so they are friendly to people. They are sociable and capable of joining dog shows. In fact, the majority of their pugs are still joining dog shows in Oregon, Idaho, Washington, and Northwest America. As a reputable pug dog club, they train all their dogs before adoption. They have different pug breed available for you to choose from. Some of these are black pugs and fawn. As a member of the American Kennel Club, all pugs evaluated are of the highest quality. They are sociable and friendly to people. All pets are vaccinated, spayed, and groomed. All pugs are litter box trained as well. Hoskins Pugs have been breeding quality AKC registered pugs for around fifteen years. Their pride pugs are one of the best in Washington and Oregon. Visit their website to get more information about them. C Pride Pugs prioritizes the quality of Chinese pugs they are selling in Washington. All their pups abide by the AKC standards, so you can expect they are vaccinated, spayed, and inserted with microchips for easy tracing. All their pug breeds stay in a family-like place, this is to make them sociable to children. You can have them as your best friend since they have good social skills. These pups are as sociable as poodles, so having them as part of the family is great. It helps them give early medical treatment for any diseases on their dogs. If you want to know more about them and their programs, visit their website. You can also call their office for inquiries. Our forum community has compiled a detailed list of local pug rescues - feel free to visit any of these rescues to adopt a pug into your family! United States State: Alabama. Pugs For Adoption Near You. Pug For Sale in Oregon .Pugs for Sale in Pensacola. To enquire about adopting Mindy please email with how your home and lifestyle matches her furever home wishes. Feel free to browse hundreds of active classified puppy for sale listings, from dog breeders in. We are sure the third can fit as. Step 2 Search Use our search to check out the pets available. Pug rescues work hard to help homeless pugs find loving families. Tiny Paws Pug Rescue of California. Will need a patient owner willing to train the young pug. Taipei, Taiwan 13 contributions 4 helpful votes. He is the most gentle and sweetest guy. His Dad is a pug and Mom is a mix. Makukulit na puppies shihtzu puppy puppylove. You've found 2, listings for including pets located interstate Boop this! Pug Puppies Purebred. Please support Pug rescues and shelters in any way that you can, by donating funds, time and support. WWWThese adorable pug puppies have been family raised and are used to being played with everyday! They are outgoing, healthy puppies! They are AKC registered, up to date with their shots an… more. Pug Rescue Information: The Pug is a small, stocky, short-haired dog with a wrinkled face and curled tail. Where can I adopt a Pug? A full-grown Pug will usually stand 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 14 and 18 pounds. Search Rescue Dogs and Puppies. Pug Puppies for Sale Near Me. Pug Puppies in Connecticut. Very friendly and they all have there own special personality. Upfront costs and ongoing expenses, like food and vet bills, also need to be considered. Chug Puppies for Sale near me. Hailing from China and popularized by European royalty, the modern Pug is a stocky, docile. Reach many interested people who want to give your puppies a good home. Discover the beauty hidden in the maps. The lower prices would generally be the puppies you can get from reputable breeders. Search over 51 Pug dogs across Australia Characterised by a round and wrinkly head, the pug is one of the best companion dogs. Maphill is more than just a map gallery. The Pug was a popular pet of the Buddhist monasteries in Tibet. Good Dog helps you find the Pug puppy of your dreams by making it easy to discover Pug puppies for sale near you. Pug Puppies for Sale, Australia. Pugs for Sale in Albuquerque. You can adopt a Pug at a much lower cost than buying one from a breeder. Adopt a Pug Dog or Puppy. However, there are many things to consider before adopting a pet to help ensure the right dog is placed with the right family. With more than four million dogs sharing our homes around Australia, it's no wonder they are considered to be our most faithful companions. Eddie is a handsome senior boy of years of age. Search our extensive list of dogs, cats and other pets available for adoption and rescue near you. Phone: Petland Lake St. If you are unable to find your companion in our Dogs for Adoption sections, please consider looking thru the directory of Rescue Organizations, to see if they have any current dogs for adoption listings. She is a sweet and active girl. Pug For Sale in Nevada .Available Pugs — Pug Nation. However, the cost is not nearly as high as you think. Pugs are very well-mannered with guests. You will find Pug dogs for adoption and puppies for sale under the listings here. Pug Puppies for Sale in Missouri. Pugs are spirited and pleasant. Pug Breeders, New South Wales. Adopt or Foster a pug Tiny Paws Pug Rescue is a non-profit operated for charitable purposes of helping Pugs and Pug mixes in need of homes, medical and love. Pug Age: 2 years. Buster, Pug cross, 2. Here at Petclassifieds. Browse dogs for sale near you. Browse thru thousands of Pug. Urgent Need for Pet Adoption. Colorado Pug Rescue CPR is a licensed, all volunteer, c 3 organization dedicated to improving the welfare and quality of life of homeless pug dogs. We have 5 Pug puppies we are re-homing. Pet Rehoming Network offers expert help. Checklist for New Adopters Help make the transition, as smooth as possible. These tiny and adorable creatures are full of charm. Get free map for your website. Most researchers agree that the Pug originated in China, and were then brought to Holland via trade during the late s and early s. You will then be ready to begin searching for the puppy of your dreams. Pugs are smart and sensitive and need gentle, consistent training. Adopt a pre-loved Pug today. Be sure to contact them to find out if they are certified Pug breeders. Pug Puppies for Sale from Reputable Dog …. Both parents are AKC registered. Remaining balance is due before puppy is released - cash or PayPal. United States. Jug puppies for sale. The Pug is a small, stocky, short-haired dog with a wrinkled face and curled tail. Please note, these dogs are from. This dog breed generally lives for years. We are operated entirely by dedicated unpaid volunteers who are experienced in the special needs pugs have. They are also well-mannered, energetic and very playful. Pugs are wonderful with children and other pets. Pug Rescue and Adoption Victoria. Pugs for Sale in Olympia, WA. Once you are done, you can make an appointment to meet the breeder and check out their facility. She is mos old and approximately 10lbs. Home What we do Adoptions Dogs and Puppies Dogs and Puppies Dogs keep us company, help us stay fit and become our best friends for life. However, free Pug dogs and puppies are a rarity as rescues usually charge a small adoption fee to cover their expenses usually less than. Pug Puppies for Sale by Uptown Puppies. Yes, free Pug puppies near me are definitely real and can be found by regular people just like you. Buster is a male Pug cross of 2. Adopt Pug Dogs in Texas. Puppies available now! All puppies are kept current on vaccinations, dewormed several times, microchipped, and well socialized. Pugs for Sale in Rockford, IL. Make sure you check with your vet first before jumping into dog sports with your dog. Click below to find a shelter or rescue in your area! Find an Animal Shelter Want to learn more about adopting a Pug puppy or dog? We've got all the info you need on adopting and caring for a Pug puppy. Meet Eddie! Kenny is great with other dogs, kids and cats. There are hundreds of breeders in the United States that will be happy to sell you a Pug puppy for sale. They will be ready to adopt Jan 31, at 9 weeks old. The higher prices would likely come from popular or well-known. Introducing our beautiful pugs available for adoption. Please support Pug rescues and shelters in any way that you can, by donating funds, time and. We contacted Captain Hook and reserved for pick up from Pakse, Buster needs to find a new home due to his family struggling with his behaviour as he is weary of strangers and will bark at them. Pugs are smart and sensitive and need. Finding breeders located throughout the US, can be challenging, so we sat down and did the research of finding as many Pug breeders near you! Colorado Pug Rescue. Pug puppies and dogs in nearby cities. Use the nationwide database of dogs looking for good homes below! Search by zip code to meet available dogs in your area. Please see our mission statement for more information. This breed needs to be with people and likes to be the center of attention. Pugs Puppies and Dogs for Sale in Australia. Mother is a Pugalier, Father is a purebred Pug Males and Females available They will come vaccinated, microchipped, wormed and vet checked. PugHearts the Houston Pug Rescue. Z outgoing pug puppies available. Pug puppies for sale from trusted breeders. There are often many great Pugs for adoption at local animal shelters or rescues. Pug Puppies and Dogs for sale near you. All have had their first shots and are potty trained. In contrast, buying Pugs from breeders can be prohibitively expensive. All have had their first shots and are potty trained on pads. Destructive chewing furniture, cords, shoes, etc. Petfinder has helped more than 25 million pets find their families through adoption. Many organizations have dogs to give away, but they. This blog is your go-to guide for: how to find the best Pug. Washington, Gig Harbor, .This will be my last litter with non standard colored pups for the year. I became a Pug Breeder to continue to help the quality of the breed improve. Pugs for adoption in the Tacoma, Washington area come with a year health guarantee. Spring Pug Puppies! Tom: Purple; Jerry: Green If you're looking for a playful and friendly Pug puppy, Lemon and Max had their litter on December 27 and they are ready to go anytime now! Phone e-mail: bluebirdwinkie54 gmail. Browse photos and descriptions of of Washington Pug puppies of many breeds available right now! AnimalsSale found Pug puppies for sale in Washington near you, which meet your criteria. Pugs are wonderful with children and other pets. Learn more puppies available certified breeders Transportation Location Color. They are a small family hobby breeder with a big passion for Pugs. Pearly Girls Pugs, Tacoma, Washington. Mom is purebred pug and D. We have owned AKC pugs for over 15 years now and members of the Pudget Sound pug club as well as rescues in the areaOur pugs are always clean and well cared. Uptown aims to make your search for a Pug for sale in Seattle as simple and seamless as possible. Pug For Sale in Vancouver 8. They are up to date on their shots of vaccines and they will come Pug. Find a Pug puppy from reputable breeders near you in Washington. This breed needs to be with people and likes to be the center of attention. Dedications towards the breed lead them to give the Chinese Pugs a caring and. Welcome to Pacific Pug Rescue! Pacific Pug Rescue is a c 3 non-profit organization. If you are unable to find your Pug puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Pug Dogs for Adoption. Arrange the travel or pickup details of your new pup. Contact Heuberg Pugs for availability of stud dogs and for a copy of the breeding contract. Nugget the Pugette is a sweet and playful gal! She is great with dogs of all sizes, cats mostly just ignores them unless they like to play , and kids of all sizes. Pug For Sale in Washington .Breeder Location City: Rochester, Washington. My love for pugs began in the 60's. Pug Puppies for Sale. His Dad is a pug and Mom is a mix. A Grumble of Love Kennels. How much are Pug puppies for sale in Seattle WA? They are up to date on shots and will come to their new family with everything they need to get off to a fantastic start. Pugs for Sale in Portland. Mudslinger Pugs. Well, we have researched for you well-established Pug breeders in. I currently show and breed both fawn and black pugs in Washington state. We are always willing to answer any pug questions you may have. Pugs are generally good with children and well-mannered in the home. We raise extremely well bred pug dogs. Next, contact the breeder of the puppy that you want. Microchip, collar, toys, health records, vet checks and Pug Washington pug puppies for sale. Pugs for adoption in the Vancouver, Washington area come with a year health guarantee. Find your Pug puppy for sale in Washington. Also, be sure to check the Pug Dog Breeder listings in our Dog. For out-of-state customers, we have nationwide delivery options tailored to every need. Our Pug puppies are raised in a family environment and interacted with daily to prepare them for a smooth transition to their new homes. The puppies are about 8 weeks old when they leave mom. Our high quality Sires and Dams offer many different color options. Aura Pugs Aura Pugs is a small in-house breeding program located in western Washington, in the beautiful Montesano, renowned for breeding black and fawn Pugs. They are up to date on their shots of vaccines and they will come. Pugs do fine in an apartment. We are a pug-loving family from Washington who want to spread the joy that pugs bring to others. Aura Pugs Aura Pugs is a small in. Pug Puppies For. Nixxie Dew is a black girl who will breed in the fall of .Pugs are spirited and pleasant. Check with the breeder for up-to-date information on puppy availability. We have owned AKC pugs for over 15 years now and members of the Pudget Sound pug club as well as rescues in the …. The breeder has been a Pug owner since .Pug For Sale in Spokane County .Our pugs are our family members, and we breed them in the comfort of our home. They are loved and cared for by myself, Aneta, and my husband Chris along with our 2 boys. Here, at Premier Pups, we specialize in raising happy and healthy Pug puppies. Pugs for adoption in the Seattle, Washington area come with a year health guarantee. Number of puppies available at time of publication: 5 puppies available. I love to educate others about the. Message if you would like a very unique Pug! It has grown since then and I can't imagine my life without my funny little companions. With no paid staff, every penny of your tax-deductible donation goes to help save Pugs in Oregon, Washington and Idaho. Number of puppies available at time of publication: 0 puppies available. As raised in a family environment, the dogs are very social and friendly. Heuberg Pug Stud Dogs are available for breeding to approved bitches. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Pugs are smart and sensitive and need gentle, consistent training. To start off, simply check out the currently available Pugs for sale from the trusted breeders and vetted businesses of the Uptown network. Pug puppies for sale in Washington. We offer loving pugs always focused on health and temperament. Pugs for Sale in Olympia, WA. Despite their tiny size, they have the biggest hearts. First, search our network for the specific kind of Pug for sale Washington DC that you want. Adorable Pug Puppies. Pug puppies for sale in Washington, DC from trusted breeders. Taavi is a fawn girl who will have her last litter in the summer of .All breedings are conducted under a contract that is provided and signed prior to the breeding. Pug Rescue Information: The Pug is a small, stocky, short-haired dog with a wrinkled face and curled tail. Transportation to Washington available. Pugs for adoption in the Port Angeles, Washington area come with a year health guarantee. Once the companions of Chinese royalty, their distinct faces are complemented by sweet demeanors. Washington, Spokane, .Pug Puppies for Sale in Washington. All breeding animals receive heart knees and PDE tests and certification. Pug Puppies For Sale. For out-of-state customers, we have nationwide delivery options tailored to. Find Pug puppies for saleNear Washington. Pug puppy for sale in Washington. Pug, Washington » Vancouver. They are the best companions and get along wit. My name is Ava and I am a 1. Find a puppies near me Category. Purebred pug puppies 3 black 2 fawn, 1 black female and 1 fawn. Adorable Pug Puppies For Sale. Pugs of many colors! If you are unable to find your Pug puppy in. Dedications towards the breed lead them to give the Chinese Pugs a caring and loving home. Loda's Pugs of many colors! Pug puppies for sale in Washington from trusted breeders. Pugs are true joy bringers from the moment they are born. Latest Pug News Pugs pugs pugs! Check here for all the latest news about who's pregnant and who's about to give birth. She's a spunky little gal, who likes to run around your feet, s… more. Pugs are very well-mannered with guests. Or browse all the available Pug puppies to see your options. Kenny is great with other dogs, kids and cats. Text xxx xxx-xxx7 trosaline.You can directly contact the breeders to learn more and then make arrangements for pick-up or delivery of. We have the most beautiful and well behaved pups in the world. To start off, simply check out the currently available Pugs for sale from the trusted breeders and vetted businesses. For more information about a specific puppy please call .Follow the progress from start to finish!

It is an adjustable harness that comes with two metal attachments for leashes, with one being on the front and the other at the back. The front attachment clip is meant for dogs who pull. If the dog starts pulling when the leash is attached to the front clip, they will be turned around instead of going forward. After a while, this will get frustrating, and they will learn that it is best not to pull. This makes it a great tool for teaching your feisty one how to be obedient. Once they have learned not to pull, you can switch to the back attachment clip. This harness will not give you any problems when it comes to putting it on or taking it off. The straps are also adjustable to allow you to find the size that fits snugly on the animal. This ensures that you do not have to worry about the Golden escaping the harness. This harness also comes with reflective strips to ensure that your dog is visible and therefore, safe when walking at night. The only downside to this harness is that the straps loosen after extended periods of intense activity. Nonetheless, the Rabbitgoo dog harness more than makes up for that drawback in quality and functionality, which is why we have it as our top pick. The Golden Retriever, a happy-go-lucky breed known for its lustrous namesake golden coat, is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. These kind, intelligent dogs are known for being obedient and loyal companions. Because Goldens are so easy to train, they are very popular for service dogs and search and rescue work. Golden Retrievers make great family dogs because of their loving nature and trustworthiness. They are also active companions. Like other retrievers, Goldens are a sporting breed, originally bred to be an ideal gundog. They were first created in the Scottish Highlands during the mid-to-late 19th century by a man known as Lord Tweedmouth. He was looking for a strong swimmer capable of retrieving wildfowl that had been shot. This is why most Goldens love to swim, play fetch, and spend time outside with their families. Golden Retrievers are a medium breed. According to the AKC, the breed standard for Goldens is their height is between 23 and 24 inches for males and between .Males generally weigh between 65 and 75 pounds, and females between 55 and 65 pounds. Of course, some Goldens will be larger or smaller than the breed standard. Energy Level and Exercise Requirements Golden Retrievers are a moderate-to-high-energy breed with a zest for life. Because of their history as working dogs, Goldens need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. In addition to frequent walks daily, Golden Retrievers should also get plenty of exercise like swimming and playing fetch. Goldens really enjoy spending time with their people and walks, jobs, and hiking are all great ways to spend active time with your pup. Because they can have a lot of energy, especially when young, most Golden Retriever owners find it best to take their dog out on a harness. Because of their history as working dogs with a sturdy build, Golden Retrievers are a strong breed that requires proper training with the right tools. For most Golden owners, the best and safest way to walk their dog is with a harness. Harnesses are a great way to retain control of your dog while training. What is the Best Golden Retriever Harness? For an active and energetic breed, the best Golden Retriever harness is one that is comfortable for both you and your pooch. Goldens can have a lot of coat, so you want a fully adjustable harness that will give you a proper fit, making the harness escape-proof. You always want to look for a harness that will help prevent your active Golden from pulling. This will help keep you and your pup safe while out and about. At Joyride Harness, we created our harness with Golden Retrievers and other active breeds in mind. Our harness has a specific three-ring design to stop your dog from pulling. Most customers attach a standard leash to one of the side rings to stop their Golden Retriever from pulling forward. For really heavy pullers, you can also attach a double-ended leash to two rings, giving you additional control. The other benefit of Joyride Harness for hyper Goldens is our built-in handle. Handled dog harnesses are great for Golden Retrievers because it gives you the option to quickly grab your dog, even if you accidentally drop the leash! And the best part? If you have trouble keeping your Golden out of trouble, our heavy-duty harnesses are durable and easy to wash! They easily stand up to water, mud, and whatever kind of mischief your pup gets into. Most adult Golden Retrievers will fit in our XL dog harness, which is suitable for dogs between 60 and 85 pounds. Most customers choose this size as the best dog harness for their male Goldens. However, smaller females may find the Large to be a better fit, which fits dogs pounds. For Golden Retriever puppies still growing, you can utilize our size chart to find the best harness to fit them at their current size. Here are reviews from real pet parents who think Joyride Harness is the best dog harness for their Golden Retrievers! My Golden Retriever, Riley and I love using the harness. The golden was running very fast, rolling around in the grass and when he came back to the owner, there was no wear and tear on it. Our golden, Brady, is still in training and needs to be corrected. The top handle has been great while doing this and also makes it really easy when putting the harness on and off. This harness has made it much easier to train and get ready for walks. It is so simple to put on our dog Snowflake and adjusting the harness is so easy. She is quite the puller, and although we have not put in serious training time with the side rings, from the few instances that I did use them she pulled herself right in a circle. This is exactly as advertised. Snowflake is a very willful Golden Retriever and we have tried countless harnesses that never lived up to expectations. I wholeheartedly recommend this harness to any dog owner regardless of breed or attitude. The item shipped out within a day and was at our front door within three days from the order date. If you are looking for a dazzlingly simple harness that is well built and looks fancy on your pet then look no further. Easy slip on and snap off. Recommend getting the seat belt strap and use it with the harness at all times! Awesome again! This is our 3rd joyride harness for my little golden guy. Key Features Fully padded straps Ergonomic design No sensitive area, from the underarm to the throat, will be at risk when your dog has this harness on. Even during intense exercises, they will stay comfortable. Since golden retrievers have sensitive skin, look for a harness that can be adjusted across the chest, belly, and back to prevent chafing and skin irritation. Reflective Straps: Reflective material will keep your goldie visible even in low light conditions, thus increasing safety during walks. Hence, strong metal buckles are essential for keeping your dog safe and secure during walks. No-Pull Design: Is a necessity if your golden retriever likes to pull during walks. A no-pull harness comes with a front ring that offers better control and can help you in training your dog how to heal. Ultimately, whichever you choose, it will teach your dog to stop pulling and ensure that you have some fun walking instead of running after your goldie. To sum up, golden retrievers are highly energetic and playful dogs who need a lot of exercise to stay out of trouble and in great shape. Taking your pooch on long walks is always a great idea, but you will need the best harness for a golden retriever if you want to have fun and be safe. You May Also Like. Why use a Golden Retriever Harness? We already owned a little scallywag of a Cockapoo called Lupin when we decided to take the plunge and get a SECOND dog — at the time, Lupin was on his own a lot while we were at work, so we wanted him to have some company. We also just really wanted a Golden Retriever, so when the opportunity arose, we went for it. They both require lots of exercise due to their relentless energy levels Lupin and rapid growth Ghost. Golden retrievers are one of the larger breeds of dogs. As with all big dogs, when they pull on their leash — you can feel it. If your dog is on a collar, this could result in discomfort to their neck if they suddenly pull when out walking. In more severe cases, this could lead to throat injuries and damage to the trachea. A good, well-designed harness is one that fits well, is comfortable and can be used to reduce pulling behaviour and help with training in your dog. In addition to the discomfort — this can result in increasing the pulling behaviour as they attempt to escape the unpleasant stimulus. Types of Golden Retriever Harness Vest Dog Harness Often made from nylon or mesh fabrics, these walking harnesses are soft, lightweight and inexpensive. Not designed to take any severe pull or as a training harness — vest harnesses are for general wear. They are suited for dogs who are well behaved on a lead, elderly dogs who may need assistance or puppies who are getting used to a harness for the first time. Front and Back Clip Harnesses Most commonly seen harnesses, mainly for dogs who tend to pull. A back clip harness has a steel clip at the back for attaching the lead. A front clip is usually a second webbed hoop at the front designed for a double-ended training leash like a HALTI. Both ends can clip onto the front and back attachment point giving more control over your dog. Dog trainers often recommend these for better training and reducing pulling behaviour. They tighten when your dog pulls. For experienced dog handlers and trainers only. However, this is a summary for your Golden Retriever. Measure the widest part of the chest with a tape measure. This will be a few inches before the front legs. Make sure you wrap the tape all the way around. Add a few inches to the total. This will allow for some movement as well as growth. Measure the circumference of the neck with a tape measure. Depending on the harness type, you may not need to do this — but for those that go on over the dogs head — you need to check it will a fit without straining b will not slip off. Measuring your dog is crucial. Too tight and the dog harness will be uncomfortable. Too loose and it could slip off or they could escape — leaving you holding a harness and leash but no dog. There is a wide range of options available, from standard body-fitted versions like the Embark to more training-oriented types like the Gentle Leader or EasyWalk harness. When choosing, take into account: His size.

Things to do with your English Bulldog Kentucky is a great place to live with an English bulldog. The state has a diverse landscape, plenty of outdoor activities, and dog-friendly businesses. Hike the Trails Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. There are many hiking trails in Kentucky that are perfect for English bulldogs. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog, and take breaks often. Visit a Campground Camping is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many campgrounds in Kentucky that allow dogs. Be sure to bring a tent, sleeping bags, food, water, and other supplies. There are many places to fish in Kentucky, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to get a fishing license and follow all the rules and regulations. Go Boating Boating is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many places to boat in Kentucky, both on rivers and lakes. Be sure to bring a life jacket for your dog and follow all the safety rules. There are many places to swim in Kentucky, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to supervise your dog at all times and follow all the safety rules. Visit a Dog Park Dog parks are a great place for English bulldogs to run and play off-leash. There are many dog parks in Kentucky, both in urban and rural areas. Visit Dog-Friendly Businesses Kentucky has a number of pet-friendly businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and stores. These are just a few of the many things you can do with your English bulldog in Kentucky. With its stunning scenery, endless activities, and friendly people, Kentucky is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in Kentucky? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Find your perfect adorable puppy. Start exploring and find your perfect furry companion today! Step 2 Add to cart and complete your purchase seamlessly, securing your beloved item with just a few clicks! Step 3 Rest assured, we'll deliver your order right to your doorstep, ensuring a hassle-free and convenient experience for you. Step 4 Embrace the joy of life with your new furry companion, as you create unconditional love with the endless happiness they bring. View Our Process About Us Puppygram was established with the core mission of providing a seamless and stress-free experience for individuals looking to bring a healthy puppy into their lives. We take pride in our highly knowledgeable staff who are dedicated to assisting you in selecting the perfect furry companion. Our aim is to make the entire process easy, enjoyable, and tailored to your specific needs, providing comprehensive assistance from beginning to end. Jonathan J. Google Loved the experience. I am now the proud owner 2 healthy Golden retrievers. Thx puppyGram for making this experience a wonderful one! I will tell all my friends and family about this new store in Berkley, MI! Wonderful store and the best Staff! Lani D. Google Great place to play with some puppies. The dogs are treated so well here and the employees are very knowledgeable about all of the dogs. You get to interact with the dogs for as long as you like and you can ask to play with any of the dogs that are not out on the floor. Will definitely be coming back Pam K. Google exceptional pet store with great layout! Love the Maltese. I'm telling all my friends! U can even play with them. Ioved my time at PuppyGram! Brittney L. The owner is so nice and helpful! What a wonderful place to adopt a puppy!!! Sara J. Google The most innovative and fun puppy store we've ever been to. We came in multiple times over the last month and each time the staff let us play with puppies for as long as we wanted. The staff was kind and courteous. And we found the puppy we've always been looking for at puppyGram Berkley! We cant wait to make so many memories with our new Cavapoo Beau! Thanks puppyGram! Cant wait to come back and visit again! Nancy S. Google What an amazing experience! I came in to the store probably a half a dozen times! The staff was so pleasant, thoughtful and very educated! Thx PuppyGram Berkley for helping me add a beautiful new puppy to the family! The store has a beautiful layout where I played with the puppies for hours! Karla D. Google Gus and Alex were extremely kind, helpful and informative! I have been searching for years for the perfect puppy and company. Brian W. Google Employees were very enthusiastic about their job, were very patient with us, and were happy to work with us. Now a very sweet dog has a loving home with us. Tim H. Google Great experience all around! I will be telling all my friends and family about PuppyGram! We now have our brand new Cavapoo pup Daisy! Thx PuppyGram! Tiffani S. Google This was a wonderful experience. They worked with me and even stayed late to work out some issues. I received the vet history and they come microchipped. I would highly recommend them. Our Affiliates. We offer French bulldogs and French bulldogs only. About Bluegrass Frenchies 5 generation pedigrees full of AKC champions We are proud to show you pictures of our parents when posting their puppies for sale. All of our French bulldogs are U. We are happy to show you our sold offspring as puppies and as full grown adults. We specialize in creams, fawns, reds and pied Frenchies. Most of our adult French bulldogs have an adult weight of 16 to 22 lbs. All of our puppies come with a two year health guarantee and AKC papers. All of our puppies are vet checked. Up to date on vaccinations and deworming. Quality isn't Expensive.It's Priceless At Bluegrass Frenchies you get priceless service and quality. That's why our customers keep returning to us time after time. Please know that the health and safety of our French bulldogs remains our first concern followed very closely by making the buying process for our families super easy. We have lots of ways you can get your new puppy from us! We even have puppies in Canada. We will work with you and meet part way as well. If you want a BlueGrass puppy to add to your furry family we will do all that we can to make that as easy as can be. All deposits and payments are explained in our Preview Adoption Steps. Payments made through our website are tunneled via a secure and encrypted shopping cart system. If you are interested in adding one of our French bulldogs to your family please fill out the adoption application or if you have questions call, email or text Christina at .If texting please include your name with the text message. Scam Alert Watch out for Scams Watch out for scams. We are seeing pictures of our French bulldogs in unauthorized places. Some scammers steal our pictures from our site and list them as their own. With this in mind please understand that all photographs and text are the exclusive intellectual property of Bluegrass Frenchies in Richmond, Kentucky. We will prosecute anyone that is using our photos to run scams on unsuspecting buyers. This is no joke and will not be tolerated in any shape, form, or fashion. For helpful tips on spotting puppy scammers click on the link above in order to spot what you should be looking for. Nestled in the Southeastern region of the United States, Kentucky boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and an abundance of dog-friendly activities, making it a fantastic place for English Bulldog enthusiasts. Our site features reputable KY breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. Kentucky falls into 32nd place among other states, with a dog population of over thousand dogs in the state. Kentucky is a haven for dog lovers, offering a wide array of dog-friendly restaurants, parks, and events where you can enjoy the company of your furry friend. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our trusted English Bulldog breeders offer safe and affordable flight delivery, with a dedicated flight nanny accompanying your new pup throughout their journey, providing a safe, secure, and comfortable trip as they make their way to their new home in the Bluegrass State. In addition to flight delivery, most breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option guarantees your English Bulldog puppy is safely transported to your doorstep by a professional who understands the unique needs of pet travel. Begin your search for the perfect English Bulldog puppy today on TrustedPuppies.

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 French Bulldog Overview Bat-eared but oddly beautiful, the French Bulldog has a unique appeal. Aesthetically, other breeds undeniably are more glamorous and showy, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder and what many behold in the French Bulldog are the attributes that make this breed one of the best companion dogs in the world today. The French Bulldog is small but substantial in build with a powerful muscular body. He sports a short easy-care coat to accompany his easygoing personality. The Frenchie likes to play, but he also enjoys spending his days relaxing on the sofa. That love of play and relaxed attitude carry over into their training sessions. French Bulldogs are intelligent, and training them is easy as long as you make it seem like a game and keep it fun. They are free thinkers and are not an ideal breed for competing in obedience or agility although some have risen to the challenge. This freethinking approach can also lead to a stubborn nature, and if they decide to dig in their heels there is no budging them. Frenchies are loving companions who thrive on human contact. If you want an outdoor dog who can be left alone for long periods, the Frenchie is not the breed for you. This is a dog who enjoys lavishing love on his human companions as much as he loves the same treatment in return. They generally get along well with everyone, including children. They can, however, be territorial and possessive of their people, especially in the presence of other dogs. Socialization is a must for this breed, but with their easy companionship this is an enjoyable task. With a nature that is both humorous and mischievous, the French Bulldog needs to live with someone who is consistent, firm, and patient with all the antics and idiosyncrasies that make him both frustrating and delightful. They can be protective of their home and family and some will try to defend both with their life. French Bulldogs do not need a lot of room and do very well in apartments or small dwellings. A couple of minute walks per day should keep them from becoming overweight. Keep the Frenchie in cool, comfortable surroundings. This is not a dog who can stay outside on a hot day. French Bulldogs are wonderful companion dogs with a gentle nature. If you work at home, the Frenchie is happy to lie at your feet all day or follow you from room to room. French Bulldog Highlights Friendly and playful: French Bulldogs are known for their friendly and playful personality. They love to cuddle and play fetch. Low-maintenance: French Bulldogs are relatively low-maintenance dogs. They only require moderate exercise and grooming. Good with children: French Bulldogs are good with children and other pets. They make great family dogs. Intelligent: French Bulldogs are intelligent dogs and can be easily trained. Adaptable: French Bulldogs can adapt to different living conditions. They are a good choice for apartment dwellers or people with active lifestyles. Healthy: French Bulldogs are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to some health problems, such as brachycephalic airway syndrome and cherry eye. Overall, French Bulldogs are great dogs for people of all ages and lifestyles. They are friendly, playful, and low-maintenance, making them a perfect addition to any family. They were originally bred to be bull-baiting dogs, but this practice was outlawed in England in .French Bulldogs were then imported to France where they became popular as companion dogs. In France, French Bulldogs were often kept by lacemakers and other artisans who worked in small shops. The dogs were prized for their gentle nature and their ability to adapt to cramped living quarters. French Bulldogs also became popular with the French upper class, and they were often depicted in paintings and sculptures. French Bulldogs were first brought to the United States in the late s, and they quickly became popular with American families. The dogs were known for their friendly and playful personality, and they made great companions for children. French Bulldogs also became popular with celebrities, and they were often featured in movies and television shows. Today, French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. They are known for their friendly and playful personality, their low-maintenance coat, and their adaptability to different living conditions. French Bulldogs make great companions for people of all ages and lifestyles. The French Bulldog thrived in France and Europe, and his charm was soon discovered by Americans as well. Males weigh 20 to 28 pounds, females 16 to 24 pounds. French Bulldog Personality This is a smart, loving dog who wants and needs to spend lots of time with his people. Hip dysplasia can exist with or without clinical signs. Some dogs exhibit pain and lameness on one or both rear legs. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Ask the breeder for proof that the parents have been tested for hip dysplasia and found to be free of problems. Brachycephalic Syndrome : This disorder is found in dogs with short heads, narrowed nostrils, or elongated or soft palates. Their airways are obstructed to varying degrees and can cause anything from noisy or labored breathing to total collapse of the airway. Dogs with brachycephalic syndrome commonly snuffle and snort. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition but includes oxygen therapy as well as surgery to widen nostrils or shorten palates. Allergies: Allergies are a common problem in dogs. The medication for inhalant allergies depends on the severity of the allergy. It is important to note that ear infections often accompany inhalant allergies. Hemivertebrae: This is a malformation of one or more vertebrae that causes it to be shaped like a wedge or triangle. This malformation can occur on its own or with other vertebrae malformations. Hemivertebra can cause no problems, or it can put pressure on the spinal cord. This can lead to pain, weakness, and or paralysis. There is no treatment for the condition unless there is spinal cord pressure. It is caused when the patella, which has three parts — the femur thigh bone , patella knee cap , and tibia calf — is not properly lined up and slips in and out of place luxates. This causes lameness or an abnormal gait the way the dog moves. The rubbing caused by patellar luxation can lead to arthritis, a degenerative joint disease. There are four grades of patellar luxation ranging from grade I, an occasional luxation causing temporary lameness in the joint, to grade IV, in which the turning of the tibia is severe and the patella cannot be realigned manually. This gives the dog a bowlegged appearance. Severe grades of patellar luxation may require surgical repair. When the disc pushes into the spinal cord, nerve transmissions are inhibited from traveling along the spinal cord. Intervertebral Disc Disease can be caused by trauma, age, or simply from the physical jolt that occurs when a dog jumps off a sofa. When the disc ruptures, the dog usually feels pain and the ruptured disc can lead to weakness and temporary or permanent paralysis. In some cases surgery can help, but it must be done within a day or so of the injury. You may also want to ask your veterinarian about physical rehabilitation. Treatments such as massage, water treadmills and electrical stimulation are available for dogs and can have excellent success. It affects the clotting process due to the reduction of von Willebrand factor in the blood. Occasionally blood is found in the stool. This disorder is usually diagnosed in your dog between the ages of 3 and 5 and cannot be cured. However, it can be managed with treatments that include cauterizing or suturing injuries, transfusions of the von Willebrand factor before surgery, and avoiding certain medications. Cleft Palate : The palate is the roof of the mouth and separates the nasal and oral cavities. It is made up of two parts, hard and soft. A cleft palate has a slit that runs bilaterally or unilaterally and can range in size from a small hole to a large slit. A cleft palate can affect both the hard and soft palate separately and together and may cause a cleft lip. Puppies can be born with cleft palates, or a cleft palate can occur from an injury. Cleft palates are fairly common in dogs, but many puppies born with a cleft palate do not survive or are euthanized by the breeder. The only treatment for a cleft palate is surgery to close the hole, although not all dogs with a cleft palate require the surgery. It is important to get a diagnosis and treatment recommendation from your veterinarian. Elongated Soft Palate: The soft palate is the extension of the roof of the mouth. When the soft palate is elongated, it can obstruct airways and cause difficulty in breathing. The treatment for Elongated Soft Palate is surgical removal of the excess palate. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Regardless of how healthy your dog is when you first bring them home, you should prepare for any issues that may come up throughout their life. French Bulldog Care French Bulldogs do not need a lot of exercise. They have fairly low energy levels, although there are exceptions to every rule. To keep their weight down, however, they need daily exercise through short walks or play times in the yard. Many French Bulldogs enjoy playing and will spend much of their time in various activities, but they are not so high energy that they need a large yard or long periods of exercise. This breed is prone to heat exhaustion and should not be exercised in hot temperatures. Limit walks and active play to cool mornings and evenings. When training a French Bulldog, take into account that although they are intelligent and usually eager to please, they are also free thinkers. That means they can be stubborn. It is important to crate train your French Bulldog puppy even if you plan to give him the freedom of the house when he reaches adulthood. French Bulldog Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 1. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. For more on feeding your Frenchie, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. The skin is loose and wrinkled, especially at the head and shoulders, and has a soft texture. French Bulldogs come in a variety of colors, including fawn, cream, various shades of brindle — a coat patterned with specks and streaks of light and dark markings — such as black brindle and the striking tiger brindle, and brindle and white, known as brindle pied. French Bulldogs can be any color except solid black, liver a solid reddish-brown with brown pigmentation on the lips and nose , mouse a light steely gray , and black with white or tan. Run from any breeder who tells you that a particular color is rare and thus worth more money. Having your heart set on a fawn female is a recipe for disappointment when the litter contains only cream and brindle males. French Bulldogs are fairly easy to groom and need only an occasional brushing to keep their coat healthy. They are average shedders. Begin grooming your Frenchie at a young age and teach your puppy to stand on a table or floor to make this experience easier on both of you. When you are grooming your Frenchie at any stage of life, take the time to check for any scabs, skin lesions, bare spots, rough, flaky skin, or signs of infections. You should also check ears, eyes and teeth for any discharge or bad smells. Both are signs that your Frenchie may need to see the veterinarian. Clean ears regularly with a damp warm cloth and run a cotton swab around the edge of the canal. Never stick the cotton swab into the actual ear canal. If the edges of the ears are dry, apply mineral or baby oil sparingly. The oil can also be used on a dry nose. French Bulldogs do not naturally wear their nails down and will need their nails trimmed regularly. This prevents splitting and tearing, which can be painful for the dog. Keep the facial wrinkles clean and dry to prevent bacterial infections. Whenever you bathe your dog, take the time to thoroughly dry the skin between the folds. Bathe your French Bulldog monthly or as needed, and use a high-quality dog shampoo to keep the natural oils in his skin and coat. French Bulldogs should be easy to groom, and with proper training and positive experiences during puppyhood, grooming can be a wonderful bonding time for you and your Frenchie. That said, no dog should ever be left alone with a young child. When they are socialized to them during puppyhood, Frenchies can get along well with other dogs and cats. French Bulldog Rescue Groups French Bulldogs are often acquired without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one, and these dogs often end up in the care of rescue groups, in need of adoption or fostering. All dogs will need veterinary care at some point in their lives. French Bulldog Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues. Below are breed clubs, organizations, and associations where you can find additional information about the French Bulldog. Do you have and French Bulldog Puppies available? Please contact us if you cannot find an answer to your question. Which Puppies Are Available? All puppies under Puppies: Available Puppies are still looking for their new homes. We want all of our puppies to find the perfect homes so if you are ready, be sure to contact us as soon as possible. We also have upcoming litters planned, so be sure you contact us to be added to the wait list for future litters. What does it mean to be AKC Registered? How will you get your puppy? We can drop your puppy off to you, you can pick up your puppy from us at a public setting, or we offer ground shipping services to those further away. What will be provided to you with your puppy? To ensure you and your puppy have the best start together, we provide you with a number of resources with your puppy. You will receive a clearly defined puppy contract with a health guarantee, your puppy will be fully vetted Dewormed and Up to Date Shots and microchipped and AKC Registered, and you will receive a Puppy Starter Kit. And of course, we will always be available for you to contact with any care questions. Litter Size 2 to 5 The French bulldog is a sturdy little Bulldog with large, erect, rounded, bat ears, a flat, powerful muzzle and a pug nose. The skin is soft and fairly loose, making the dog very pleasant to pet. It has the appearance of an active, intelligent, muscular dog of heavy bone, smooth coat, compactly built and of medium or small structure. It is to some limits a smaller version of the English Bulldog. French Bulldogs make good watchdogs and wonderful companion to small children. In a family situation this little dog behaves like a child, demanding a great deal of personal attention and interaction. Temperament The Frenchie is a very playful and affectionate dog, it is sweet and absolutely hilarious; it has a very comical personality, it loves to clown around. It is bright and easygoing, curious and alert. This breed gets along well with strangers and other pets, though some males may be aggressive. This breed needs lots of companionship. The French Bulldog is fairly willful, but can be trained if the owner is patient. It needs gentle, consistent training. It may drool and slobber. This little dog is also a ruthless hunter of mice! Colors Brindle, fawn, white and combinations of brindle or fawn with white. Rare colors are blue and chocolate: Blue French bulldogs are just as popular as Chocolate French Bulldogs. Coat Short, smooth, close and finely textured. Health Issues They are prone to eye and respiratory problems which should be closely monitored by regular vet visits. It may wheeze, snore and be gassy. The French Bulldog cannot swim because of its physique, so be very careful around swimming pools. To minimize the risk of your Frenchie developing any hereditary health issues, you should buy a French Bulldog puppy from a reputable French Bulldog breeder. Living Environment This breed is sensitive to temperature extremes. Overheating this dog may cause heat stroke; so it prefers cooler climates. This dog is ideal for apartment life. It can be fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. Keep on reading to learn everything about French Bulldog puppies! French bulldogs All you need to know about Frenchies: a short summary History in a nutshell French Bulldogs were first bred as a smaller version of the English Bulldog in the 19th-century England. They were particularly popular among lacemakers in Nottinghamshire, who initially kept them to chase rats but soon fell in love with their small size and calm, friendly nature. After the Industrial Revolution, they had to move to southern France where lacemaking was still done by hand and took their dogs with them. Frenchies soon got popular in the circles of French artists, actors, writers in Paris as well as rich Americans visiting the city. In fact, they loved Frenchies so much that they took them to the US, where they finally got recognized by the AKC in .Frenchie Characteristics French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds thanks to their fun, adaptable, friendly nature and distinctive look. You can easily recognize them by their flat, heavily wrinkled faces and large, erect bat ears, which make them absolutely adorable. Despite having the strong, muscular body of a bulldog Frenchies are small in size: adult males usually weigh 20 to 28 pounds while females are 16 to 24 pounds. Frenchie Colors Frenchies come in a wide variety of different colors and patterns. There are standard French Bulldog colors like black, fawn, cream and patterns like pied and brindle, which are considered common for the breed. Rare and unique colors like blue and lilac, as well as patterns like tan and merle have gained more popularity in recent years. Frenchie Personality French Bulldogs probably have the biggest personality among all the dog breeds. They are funny, friendly and insanely affectionate, making them the perfect companions for anyone. They are also highly intelligent and need a fair amount of mental stimulation. Frenchies are like small children: simply irresistible! Giving only high- quality food, ensuring regular training and exercise, finding a good vet and not exposing them to too much heat is also essential to provide a long and happy life for your French Bulldog. They are little clowns who always do something silly to make you laugh! They are amazing companions who get along with everyone in the family from small kids to older people, other dog breeds and even cats. Shall we go on?! The exact amount usually depends on various factors like the color, gender and age of a puppy as well as the breeder you get your puppy from. Breeding Frenchies requires a lot of time, effort, care and money, so those who are dedicated to only having high-quality and healthy French Bulldog puppies will ask a larger sum starting from 4, USD. Colors and patterns considered common for the breed like black brindle and fawn have the lowest prices ranging from 4, to 5, USD, while blue, lilac and merle which are more unique and harder to produce come at a higher price as well ranging from 6, to 8, USD. Isabella and fluffy Frenchies are the rarest, most valuable and most expensive from 8, to 30, USD. When it comes to age and gender, younger female Frenchies usually cost a couple of hundreds more than older male puppies. What's included in the price?

Reasons why your German Shepherd is not eating As pet parents, we all want our four-legged family members to get the best nutrition to keep them strong and healthy, so it can be worrying if their appetite changes. Your dog is stressed or anxious Stress hormones can suppress the appetite. Dental problems Gum recession, tooth root abscesses, fractured teeth, or teething can all cause pain in the mouth that might mean chewing is uncomfortable for your dog. Dogs with dental disease might drop their food, throw it around their mouth, or struggle with dried kibble. If their food is causing some vomiting or diarrhea regularly due to allergies, your dog might not be keen to eat it if they know it makes them feel poorly. Your dog will pick up on this change and might not be hungry at the new feeding time or might be feeling stressed. German Shepherds need around 2 hours a day for adults. Less than this and they might only want a small portion of food to avoid overeating and weight gain. How can I get my German Shepherd eating again? Getting your pup to eat again after a period of inappetence can be challenging, and you want to be sure you are offering your dog the right food to get them back to their usual selves. Here are our top tips to help get your German Shepherd eating again: Switch their food Dogs like variety, so switching up their food by mixing wet and dry or adding some water, or even changing brands every few months can keep them interested. Feed at a specific time each day and stick to a routine Dogs are creatures of routine, and German Shepherds are very sensitive to change. Establish a routine when your dog is a puppy and introduce changes gradually. Your dog will learn to expect and want their food around a certain time, and they may not be hungry outside of it. A behaviorist can help you here, and some simple training techniques will help. Make mealtimes fun Games, interactive feeders, and slow feeding bowls can make mealtime more interesting for your dog, stimulate their senses and make them more enthusiastic about their food. When to see the vet A lack of appetite can be worrying for any pet parent. The vet will examine your dog and might want to do tests to find out what the problem is and get your dog the treatment they need. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are highly intelligent and sensitive dogs, so they can go off their food for reasons as simple as a change in routine or environment, or stress such as separation anxiety. Most adult dogs can go a day or two without food. Puppies cannot go as long without food. When should I worry about my dog not eating? If your dog is not eating for 24 hours or more, or it is a long-term problem then get them checked at the vet. Why does my dog suddenly not want to eat? Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. Ways to make your German Shepherds eat There are many options to get your German Shepherd to eat again. Here are some solutions that you can introduce: 1 Increase activity to stimulate appetite 2 Introduce a consistent schedule 3 Limit the feeding time to 15 minutes 4 Add high-value food to their meal 5 Make mealtime fun 7 Create a safe eating environment 1 Increase activity to stimulate appetite German shepherd dogs need an average of 2 hours a day of exercise. Those 2 hours should be made up of physical and mental stimulation. Walking and playing fetch are everyday physical activities. Mental activities could include training and puzzle toys. Exercise does not have to be done all at once and can be more accessible when broken up throughout the day. Disruptions can affect their appetites, so keeping consistent is vital. Meals should be offered twice daily, ideally after a walk or activity. Make sure to choose times that you can keep as consistent as possible. Automatic feeders can be used if your schedule varies and it is hard to keep to exact times. Portions are dependent on the weight and life stage of your German shepherd. If food is left out, your dog may start grazing and not eating the entire meal because your dog is used to having it left out. Dry food can become stale and wet food should not be left out for long, or it can cause digestive problems. Limiting feeding time should encourage them to eat while it is available. Plain chicken and unsweetened canned pumpkin can help to settle an upset stomach and entice your dog to eat. You can also add a portion of wet food to dry kibbles. Adding broth to dry food can make it more palatable. Ensure the broth you use does not have added harmful ingredients like onions or garlic and is low in sodium. Treats you already use and know your dog likes can also make a high-value mix to encourage them to eat. You can purchase or create puzzle toys that provide that mental stimulation and fun. A puzzle toy can easily be made by rolling up dry food in a towel and then letting your dog sniff out and unravel it. You could also fill a cardboard box with pieces they must get through. There are many cost-effective ways to make meals fun. If your dog is not eating, he may be shy, and feeding by hand helps them to build trust and be more comfortable. It can also help impulse control, rewarding good behavior by having self-control. Hand feeding can combat resource guarding, letting the dog know that food comes when you are around. These go alongside training, and german shepherd dogs are a working class breed, so being rewarded for work can help increase appetite. It can include changes inside or outside the home. It may be too loud or too many people around while trying to eat. If your dog has a crate, this may be an excellent place to feed them. A quiet and secluded place could also be a great way to get them eating again. Dogs can be sensitive to changes, so keeping a secured area where they are fed is essential. Conclusion A dog that is not eating is worrisome. However, if your dog is not eating and is either vomiting, having diarrhea, or both, contact your veterinarian within hours. Source: AKC Hayley is a writer and animal lover. She is an avid reader which led to a love of writing. Post navigation. Sep 1, Share Determining the causes of a loss of appetite in your German Shepherd is often tricky. The symptom is non-diagnostic and can point to so many reasons. It can indicate minor things or something more serious. Is there nausea or vomiting? Is your pet experiencing GI distress? You should be aware of anything unusual. When symptoms appear together, it can give your veterinarian a shortlist of things to check. Just saying that my German Shepherd is too skinny is vague. It can make learning the root of the problem more difficult. Remember that canines have a keen sense of smell with over 16 times the sensory receptors and 40 times the brain capacity. That means dogs are often more sensitive to different foods. Image Credit: Angeleses, Pixabay 2. You probably know about chocolate. However, there are also several obscure ones, such as avocados and macadamia nuts. Eating Is Painful Dental problems are often a culprit that can turn your pup off its food. Severe cases might make it too painful for your dog to eat. That makes regular dental care imperative. Image Credit: PixieMe, Shutterstock 4. Common types include chemotherapy drugs, pain meds, and some antibiotics. Luckily, the symptoms resolve quickly after your pet goes off the things causing the problems. Fortunately, many are specific to the condition, which makes diagnosis easier. Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss occurs with several of them, including stomach worms, roundworms , and threadworms. They also resolve quickly once they are identified. It can have a similar effect on your canine friend as it does on humans. Think of how you feel in a tense situation. Probably the last thing you want to do is eat. Your body—and that of your German Shepherd—allocate its resources to escaping the threat instead of passive ones like eating. They sometimes experience separation anxiety if they are kept alone for long stretches. It can manifest in many ways, including a loss of appetite. Counterconditioning therapy can help your pup cope better with your absences. Image Credit: DanaTentis, Pixabay 8. Veterinarians can tell you a plethora of stories about the things dogs have swallowed, from socks to rocks to Super Balls. A loss of appetite, vomiting, and pain are the telltale symptoms. The list includes a broad range of conditions, from liver disease to bacterial problems to urinary tract infections. Your vet will likely begin with a complete blood profile. Image Credit: Goran Horvat, Pixabay .Your Pup Has Cancer Cancer often causes a decrease in appetite, too. It can result from the disease or its treatment. The difference is that it can often result in a dramatic weight loss that is visible quickly and noticeably. Keeping your German Shepherd will give your pup its best defense against this disease. Final Thoughts Dogs differ from cats in that they often wear their symptoms on their proverbial sleeves. Related Read:. Check Price on Amazon 5. If you give treats just to entice your German Shepherd to eat, you are turning him into a fussy eater! So, are German Shepherds fussy eaters? Now and again, a little healthy treat is just fine. You can also try some fruits or vegetables , especially if the treat cupboard is bare. Your German Shepherd may have also eaten something poisonous while roaming in the garden or fields. Dogs are known for eating anything they can find left lying around or even getting into the garbage! Take care with foods like chocolate or grapes , and never leave these lying around where your dog can get at them, as they can be highly toxic. If your German Shepherd has had his recent vaccinations, sometimes these can cause adverse reactions, including loss of appetite. The good news is this should only be brief — just ensure your dog is drinking plenty of water and keeping himself hydrated. If nothing else seems to be working and you are worried, you should schedule a visit with the veterinarian as soon as you can. He likes to eat at certain times of the day Just like you might not like to eat breakfast at 6 a. Though this can be concerning at first, you should be keeping track of how much food in total your German Shepherd is eating throughout the day. If he still eats about the same amount, he simply might prefer to eat at specific times of the day! On a similar note, your dog may prefer to eat little and often. My German Shepherd used to eat one meal in the morning and one in the evening. However, now that she is older, she prefers to eat both meals in the evening. Take your dog on a long walk before feeding — so he works up an appetite. Give him lots of praise when he eats from his bowl. Make feeding time fun — try putting a lid on his food, so he must remove it first. It gets over , top reviews! If your dog refuses his meal, take his bowl away after 15 minutes and then only put it down again a few hours later. Limit treats to training times only. If he senses that you are stressed and anxious about his loss of appetite, he may also become stressed and not eat at all! A sudden lack of appetite and resulting weight loss can signify other issues going on. Switch His Food If your dog slowly lost interest in food over a few weeks, he might no longer like his current food. Here are some ways to target his diet and boost his loss of appetite. Choose a more fragrant food. Try picking food that smells more like meat and has a more intense aroma. Add wet food or soak his food in warm water. I feed her cold-pressed dog food, which she just adores and continues to thrive on. Hopefully, these steps will fix the situation and return your dog to regular eating habits. Take Him to the Vet Vet visits can be costly, but so are the treatment methods for the condition or disease your dog might currently be experiencing. I would always recommend having a decent pet insurance policy in place, as this will always give you peace of mind. A healthy German Shepherd can go up to five to seven days without eating as long as they are still drinking water. However, if your German Shepherd refuses to drink water for 48 hours, it is time to bring your dog to the emergency veterinary clinic. If your German Shepherd is eating only once a day, it may be due to a routine that has been established over time. However, feeding your dog only once a day can lead to health problems such as gastric dilatation-volvulus GDV. Add variety to the diet and check the consumption. German Shepherd Not Eating and Diarrhea. If your German Shepherd is not eating and has diarrhea, it could be due to a variety of reasons, such as a change in diet, stress, anxiety, or a gastrointestinal infection. When your German Shepherd stops eating, you need to take the necessary steps to figure out the source of the problem and how to address it. Add wet food or warm water to boost his appetite and make his food more palatable and fragrant. Keep an eye on his other behaviors to see how his mood and movements have changed. Call the vet and schedule an appointment to have him checked over. Related Posts You May Like:. Health It is not totally uncommon for a German Shepherd will refuse to eat once in a while. Although this is not totally uncommon, it is always a worrying experience for their humans. This article will help you realize some common reasons why GSDs may have a change in appetite to help you know whether or not to be concerned. So, when they refuse to eat, you know that something might be wrong. Sometimes, this might be because of the sensitive gut the breed is known for. But in many cases, it could be a sign that they are sick or in pain. Additionally, this could also be a sign of other conditions like oral problems or parasites. However, there are fussy GSDs that prefer variety. This issue is most common for dogs that are given access to table food or are fed a wide variety of dog food. They might also lose their appetite when they are depressed. In other cases, medicines can cause nausea or digestive upset, which will also keep your dog from eating. If your dog is refusing to eat because of new medications, make sure to bring it up with your vet. Older dogs become less active and have fewer opportunities to work up an appetite. Sometimes, German Shepherds stop eating the dry kibble that they normally eat. Or, they might ditch the kibble entirely in preference of wet dog food. Here are some of the most common reasons why your dog could be refusing to eat dry food: They have dental issues When oral problems get bad enough, your GSD might refuse to eat due to the pain it causes. This could be caused by cavities, a broken tooth, or swollen gums. In this case, a rotation between kibble brands and variants will help. They just prefer another food Dogs might refuse their regular food in hopes that they will be given another that they have tasted and loved. This might be table scraps or another kind of dog food. In cool weather, German Shepherds use up more energy to keep themselves warm. But in the hot summer months, they prefer to lounge around and keep cool. After some exercise, give them time to cool down completely before giving any food. Dogs can survive up to five days without food as long as they keep drinking water. Fasting for this long may have long-term consequences. More critically, it might be a sign of an underlying illness. If they suddenly have no appetite but they normally eat voraciously and never miss a meal, it should definitely be a cause of concern. Just make sure you observe them for any other warning signs. You might also observe changes in their stool consistency or a lack of enthusiasm for their regular activities. Whether or not they have a good reason for refusing food, here are some things you can do to encourage your German Shepherd to eat: Cut down on treats. Your dog can lose their appetite for their regular food when they have plenty of better-tasting treats throughout the day. Make feeding enjoyable. GSDs are always eager to please. Teach them to wait for their food and take it only on command. Then, praise them for finishing their food. Make food more appetizing. Try topping kibble with different types of food that might whet their appetite. Sometimes, a little bit of boiled chicken or beef broth will do the trick. They might not like the print, the ability to see their reflection, or the feeling on their tongue. Using another feeding bowl might help. Give them plenty of exercise. The energetic German Shepherd may need to tire themselves out to work up an appetite. Give your dog the daily exercise they need and then wait at least half an hour after any physical activity before giving them their meals. However, when your dog refuses to eat, you should also keep an eye out for other signs that could be a cause for concern. While many types of food might help jumpstart their appetite, there are several that might do more harm than good. Even if these foods might get them to eat, the effects might be more harmful. Instead, you can first try to give them some wet dog food for German Shepherds or mix in some plain rice and chicken with their kibble. You know what is normal for your dog! If their change in appetite veers too much from their norm it is best to make an appointment with the vet just to be safe. After covering each one in full detail, you may realize that one of the causes sounds familiar to your situation. The next section will provide the best solutions. There are several reasons why German shepherds stop eating their food. These include disagreeing with their kibble, inactivity, lack of feeding schedule, receiving too many treats, boredom, environmental issues, and underlying health issues. More will be explained about the correct diet and brands in the next section. Recommended Read: Why does my German Shepherd have diarrhea? German Shepherds ideally need around 2 hours or more of exercise per day. Appetite is just one of many things closely linked to exercise. Having routines helps them understand their day and allows them to become comfortable in their environment. Most adult GSDs are fed just twice a day. For puppies, this varies. Day grazing should not be something you engage in with your German Shepherd. By sticking to certain times you are training your German Shepherd to become hungry at those times. Yep, it really does work like that! But it could be the case… If your GSD has been eating the same food for a while, he may just be bored of it. Boredom will not make your GSD sick, so if you do see signs of sickness or being unwell, you can rule boredom out. This may be table scrabs or other forms of food. A change in the environment could be a new neighbor, a new pet, a new person in the household, a loss of someone in the house, or maybe you moved house entirely, the list is quite extensive. Think about your close surroundings and if something has changed. This changes when health issues are present. This is original content produced and published by The Puppy Mag www. There are many common allergens in dog food that may be causing the issues. The biggest culprit being chicken. Yep, chicken, as well as beef, pork, and lamb, are all common allergens, despite being used all the time! Try opting for a premium dog food brand that uses either duck, salmon, or turkey as the main protein source. These digest easily and usually cause fewer issues than chicken. Wet dog food is considerably tastier, juicier, has a higher protein content with fewer preservatives and additives. Adding a small amount to every mealtime will be irresistible for your German Shepherd. This working breed needs this kind of physical activity in order to develop a healthy appetite. Consider his environment Have you recently changed where you put the food bowl? On the flip side, you can try moving his bowl to a different spot to see if that has an effect. If you have young children, allow your GSD to eat in peace. Popular German Shepherd Articles:. German Shepherds, like all dogs, need regular sustenance to thrive and remain healthy. There are many reasons why a German Shepherd may develop a lack of appetite or refuse food altogether, and some are more serious than others. German Shepherds may stop eating due to medical issues such as viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections. Environmental factors could also play a role and cause stress, leading to food refusal. Additional reasons include behavioral problems, picky eating, and old age. Read on to learn more about why your dog may not be eating and what you can do about it. German Shepherds And Canine Anorexia Canine anorexia is the term for dogs that refuse to eat—it is a symptom, not a diagnosis. There are two types of canine anorexia including: Pseudo-anorexia — Your German Shepherd may show an interest in food and attempt to eat but cannot do so. He may struggle with chewing, may vomit, or have issues swallowing. True anorexia — Dogs with true anorexia show little to no interest in food. Dogs of all breeds, including German Shepherds, may present with either form of canine anorexia. Some canine viruses may be treated at home, whereas others, like parvovirus, require immediate veterinary care. Always let a veterinarian rule out any medical issues before assuming your German Shepherd is just finicky. Viral Infections In German Shepherds While parvovirus is more common in puppies, it can wreak havoc on an unvaccinated adult German Shepherd. The virus causes numerous gastrointestinal symptoms, including loss of appetite and vomiting. Over a quarter of dogs with parvovirus die. Another less-concerning virus that often causes loss of appetite is kennel cough. It is common among dogs, including German Shepherds, who often socialize with other canines outside the home. Like parvovirus, kennel cough can be prevented with a vaccine. Parasitic Infections In German Shepherds German Shepherds infected with parasites may show several symptoms, including loss of appetite. The loss of appetite could be due to other symptoms common in parasitic infections, including abdominal pain, nausea, bloating, and fatigue. In addition, an adult German Shepherd should take regular flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives to reduce the likelihood of future parasitic infections. Bacterial Infections Most bacterial infections, including campylobacteriosis , are easily treated with antibiotics. Diarrhea and vomiting can lead to potentially fatal dehydration. Puppies are more susceptible to bacterial infections. It is a condition that causes the body to produce an insufficient number of digestive enzymes in the pancreas. However, some dogs may vomit and have anorexia. This condition cannot be cured, but vets can treat it with prescribed digestive enzymes and a specific diet. In some cases, a dog may experience an overgrowth of bacteria, leading to the need for antibiotic therapy. Other problems with the organs can lead to a loss of appetite in German Shepherds. These issues may be the result of other infections, congenital defects, or injury. External factors can, in fact, cause a German Shepherd to lose interest in eating. A New Environment If your German Shepherd is new to your home, it might not yet feel comfortable in its new environment. Being separated from its previous owners, siblings, or other canine companions can cause a lot of stress. Stress manifests in strange ways and may cause appetite loss. Loss Of Companion German Shepherds are incredibly loyal to their people and other pets in the home. German Shepherds are prone to separation anxiety, and it may present as a loss of appetite. If your German Shepherd is used to morning walks, afternoon playtime, and regularly scheduled feedings, a change in that routine could confuse them. It may take time for your German Shepherd to adjust to the new schedule. Even simple changes, such as a new feeding bowl or feeding your GSD in a different room, could cause them to eat less. This chewing is usually to relieve the pain and discomfort associated with the eruption of adult teeth. Any gastrointestinal issue can cause a loss of appetite. Make sure to offer your German Shepherd plenty of safe chew toys. German Shepherds are medium to large breed dogs, so keep their size in mind when purchasing chew toys to prevent choking, obstruction, or other digestive issues. These toys are available in different sizes, for dogs up to 88 pounds. There are different color options and the soft rubber and squeaky core help stimulate your GSD. If your German Shepherd chews on random objects, and you suspect that they may have swallowed something, reach out to your vet immediately. Some dogs prefer wet, canned food, whereas others go crazy over dry kibble. Old Age May Cause A German Shepherd To Stop Eating Viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections, along with other medical issues, can cause a German Shepherd to stop eating, but sometimes it just comes along with old age. As dogs age, they may lose their appetite. This is normal as long as the dog is eating and not rapidly losing weight. Around this time, it might be appropriate to transition your German Shepherd to a senior diet. Remember that German Shepherds still need high protein, even in old age, to keep their muscles healthy. Final Thoughts Ensuring that your German Shepherd is happy and healthy is an integral part of being a responsible pet owner. If your GSD stops eating, have the dog examined by a veterinarian. If the symptoms persist, your veterinarian may recommend that you take your dog to a specialist.

If you normally feed your dog once in the morning and once in the evening, add in one more meal right before bed. Start by feeding them the same amount spread out over more meals. If this does not help them gain weight, you may need to give them more food, adding a quarter to half a cup per meal. This type of feeding schedule allows your dog to nibble a little whenever they are hungry or bored, which may help them eat more overall. Keep in mind that free-feeding may not work for your dog. For some dogs, the excitement of getting their food at certain times during the day makes them eat more than if it was available to them all the time. Treats should not be a primary calorie source for your dog. Giving them a few extra treats throughout the day, though, can help your German Shepherd gain some weight. Some dogs find treats from your fridge to be more appealing than treats from a bag. Give your German Shepherd small amounts of cooked chicken mixed with rice, a spoonful of peanut butter, a scrambled egg, or some apple slices every day in addition to their normal food. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. A sprinkle of rice, a couple heaping spoonfuls of pumpkin, a bit of wet food, or a big spoonful of peanut butter mixed in with dry food could intrigue your dog into eating. Coconut oil has a lot of calories, and it's easy for dogs to digest. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Do you want to know how to fatten up a German Shepherd to make them gain weight in a healthy way? Are you worried that your German Shepherd is thin and underweight and want to know how to bulk up a German Shepherd for safe weight-gain? Is Your German Shepherd Underweight? Your dog should have a trim, athletic appearance. They are large breed dogs with fast metabolisms that are active and energetic in their daily lives. Fit German Shepherds may at first seem slightly underweight. They are lean, athletic dogs with a strong, firm figure and you should avoid learning how to make a German Shepherd fat. Instead, you want to bulk-up your German Shepherd to make them fit. But if you see their ribs protruding or their hip bones raised and easily felt when petting, this is a sign of being underweight. You should first check with your vet for possible medical issues. You want to know if they are gaining weight, losing weight, or remaining the same. This helps you to decide if your weight gain plan is working — or if you need to adjust your plan. If your dog continues losing weight or if you see a lack of progress, take your dog back to your veterinarian. You need to see this as a long term plan and not an overnight fix to get your German Shepherd fat and by fat, I mean bulk-up not obese or overweight. Look for foods that have a higher percentage of fat and protein than your current food. Adults and seniors should eat about 20 to 25 percent of their daily calories from protein and 25 to 50 percent from fats. The rest of the calories should come from carbohydrates. This is anywhere from 8 months to a year or longer. Change to Puppy or High-Performance Food If you have an adult dog, switch them to a puppy or high-performance dog food to help them gain healthy weight. Both puppy and high-performance also known as a working breed food is higher in calories to support complex energy needs and sustained growth. Puppy foods generally have added nutrients to support puppy growth which can help your underweight German Shepherd gain weight and fatten up in a controlled manner — which is what you want. Mixing regular adult and puppy or high-performance food helps your GSD gain weight and fat in a regulated manner. For More Calories Feed Dry Kibble Dry kibble dog food generally has more calories if you want your dog to gain weight. Dry kibble is denser and contains more calories than wet food because the moisture has been removed from dry foods. Therefore, dry food has up to 4 times the number of calories as the same amount of wet food — dry kibble is a weight gaining powerhouse! If your dog is currently eating wet meals, then try mixing in some dry food with their wet food to help stimulate weight gain. Wet foods may taste better to your dog, so mixing in the dry foods with the wet still encourages your dog to eat in order to not lose more weight. Look for dry food with higher protein and fats to encourage weight gain in a healthy manner and go with one of the foods mentioned above for fat gain that is healthy. Begin by feeding your dog a bit more of their current food spread out over one more meal per day. Add a quarter to half a cup of extra food per meal. You can also take their regular feeding and the additional food and increase their feeding schedule to four times per day, splitting the food equally at each feeding. If your German Shepherd is picky about when they eat, then it may help to leave food out for them all the time. This is called free feeding. Dogs who can free feed tend to gain more weight than dogs fed on a schedule. Free feeding allows your dog the chance to eat a little whenever they are hungry or bored. This type of feeding may help them eat more overall. But only use free feeding with dry food, since wet foods spoil when left out for more than a couple hours. They may follow you around rather than eat when you offer their food bowl — this may be especially true of Shepherds since they tend to get fixated on their caretaker. But, just keeping your dog company while they eat may stimulate their appetite. Find a comfortable spot to sit and wait on your dog while they eat. Bring a book or do a quiet activity while they eat close to you. Simply sit with them and enjoy your time together while they eat. Keep the treats handy and offer them to help get extra calories into your dog. Adding these foods into their regular kibble may also entice them to eat more of their dry dog food, which can help an underweight puppy or adult. They also add extra calories which are healthy and nutritious. To get your dog more interested in their food, try sprinkling on a topping to their usual meals. You can even buy healthy toppers that are easy to add. Seniors, adults, and puppies all have various nutritional concerns. Most commercial and pre-made dog foods specify their intended age range on the packaging and state what groups the food is aimed at feeding. Underfeeding a German Shepherd puts your dog at a serious health risk. You need to make sure they get enough food for their age and energy needs. Puppies generally eat almost double the number of calories an adult dog needs, so be sure to check out this post on what amount to feed a German Shepherd puppy to keep them healthy. While a senior GSD may eat significantly fewer calories, if they are losing weight or underweight and a vet has been consulted, they may need extra feedings or food to help them gain the weight back. German Shepherds thrive on consistent physical activity. Walking and swimming are activities that build muscle and are lower impact and less intense on their joints and bones. They can be done every day to keep your dog active and help them to maintain their muscle mass. But these two exercises can be performed at a lower intensity so that even older dogs and puppies can enjoy their benefits make sure your puppy can swim first. Keeping muscle mass is important to prevent wasting and help maintain their health and mobility, as well as their athletic appearance. Try walking up hills to improve muscle growth or a gentle game of tug using a spring pole in which your dog can start and stop on their own. Some of the herbs used to increase human appetite are also safe for use in dogs. Dandelion is available in this for-1 multivitamin , along with other herbal supplements to make your GSD gain weight. B vitamins are natural appetite stimulants and are readily available over the counter and online. Visit Your Vet Regularly Always see your vet regularly. Regular vet appointments are especially important for your underweight German Shepherd. Your vet will use your notes to help make medical adjustments, as necessary, and to give you the right tips and advice. Helping Your German Shepherd Gain Weight Knowing how to fatten up a German Shepherd can help you and your dog achieve their ideal weight and maintain this healthy condition. There are many reasons why your dog or puppy may not be gaining weight. But there are also ways to help your dog at home to become healthier and have more energy. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Your dog is either lacking certain nutrients in their daily diet or just not eating enough each day. You might not be putting enough out for them. German Shepherd owners could be feeding their pets based on the wrong age and sex. Maybe you buy something that was advertised on TV a lot. For other dogs, this method might be okay. For your German Shepherd, however, that cheap food you get might not provide all of the nutrients your companion needs. Your canine buddy indeed wolfs it down as if their life depends on it most of the time. You might be used to feeding them a certain amount because you got them when they were just a juvenile. You might have to do some scientific experimentation by filling their bowl with the different options you have multiple times. The foods your dog barely eats versus the ones they wolf down will help you determine what consumables you should skip buying on your next grocery trip. There are a lot of factors to take into consideration to ensure your German Shepherd has a balanced diet. Details like these are complicated, which is why you should get a recommended food plan from your vet. There may be some advice online, but never choose that over what your veterinarian says. They could play a role in helping them gain weight, however. For a lot of owners, their German Shepherds are more than just companions. They might be show dogs or work on a farm. Putting weight on your pooch is more than merely putting twice the number of food in their bowl. It might be a smaller change, like adding some more edibles to their diet. Either way, keep trying multiple strategies until you find the one that works the best. If not, then start. Keep track of whether this will help them gain the appropriate amount of weight. For those who already feed your German Shepherds twice a day, you should upgrade their food plan to three times a day. Make sure to spread out the meals and that each contains the same amount of consumables. For example, give your German Shepherd 2. If you usually give them one or two treats a day, then give them a couple more. Be sure to spread them out like the meals. You could also make your treats. Other snacks like apple slices and peanut butter can also be great. Try to find something with noticeably more protein and fat. With that in mind, be sure to look out for dog food that has filler ingredients. They can be fine if done right. If done wrong, however, they could result in your German Shepherd gaining too much weight or getting high blood sugar. Make sure only to do this with dry food, as wet food will spoil if left out too long. Monitor how much more or less your German Shepherd is eating their food. Mix in puppy food with their adult chow. Make sure not to feed them only puppy food. If they give you the okay, then start feeding your companion half adult mix and half puppy chow. You can set some goals on how many more pounds you want your German Shepherd to gain. Remember to ask your veterinarian for that information. Be sure to write down the diet plans you use for your dog as well as how effective they were. The main factor you have to pay attention to is the percentage of adult weight your companion has depending on their age. In addition to sex and age are other factors, like the type of German Shepherd you have. Next, jot down all of the methods you plan on using in a list. Be sure to write down how effective each plan was. Share these results with your veterinarian and see what they say. The daily intake could include canine food, doggy treats, home-cooked meals, and more. If your German Shepherd is only months old, then you may not have enough time to transition to a different meal plan before your goals have to change. Visit your veterinarian regularly for updates on diet methods and results. Depending on how much progress they made can determine whether you want to continue that plan for the rest of the month. Write down the results of each weekly method you do and decide which one allows them to gain the appropriate amount of weight. Start small when exercising your German Shepherd. You can take them on a short walk around the neighborhood. As they gain more weight, gradually increase the amount of exercise you give them. A lot of the tips mentioned above can apply to all kinds of dogs who need to gain weight. Like varying dog breeds, however, German Shepherds will need more specific methods since their bodies function a little differently. Below is a YouTube video that goes over a lot of what we talked about in this article: You can look to this video for a quick reminder of some of the ways you can help your German Shepherd gain weight. Short Answer:. Tweet We get a lot of questions from German Shepherd owners about how to keep weight on their pups. Chronically skinny, underweight Shepherds can be heartbreaking for an owner who is desperate to put weight on them. What do I do? Schnauzers can have this problem too. So what is it? Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency or EPI is a condition in which the pancreas is not able to produce adequate enzymes to digest and absorb food properly. To determine if this is the case with your shepherd, make an appointment with your veterinarian and request some blood testing. Shepherds are also susceptible to pancreatitis so it's important that you think preventatively! So what can you do if your shepherd has EPI? Your first line of defense as a pet owner is choosing the type of food and supplements you put into your shepherd. Try the following: Provide as many dietary enzymes as possible. Our recommendation is by feeding a raw diet. Raw meat, bones, organs, and juiced veggies combined will contain all the necessary enzymes for better digestive function. By relieving the pancreas of having to produce additional enzymes you can prevent pancreatic inflammation Pancreatitis. Shepherds that are fed only processed or cooked diets are often missing these vital nutrients. Suggestion: A rotation of our 3P veggies 1 and 4 is a great way to give natural-source vitamins and minerals as well as metabolic support for a dog suffering from a pancreatic disease. This may be a bit gross for some, but excellent for your pup! Add a good portion of raw, green tripe to the diet. Green tripe, an animal stomach that smells horrible, but it works! If fed raw not canned it contains the highest levels of digestive enzymes available in a natural form. Wild canines eat the stomach of their prey first because of this fact. Your shepherd will benefit too. Us it as a supplement on top of regular food portions. Ensure you are purchasing freshly frozen, grass-fed tripe. Provide a canine-specific digestive enzyme supplement that includes ox bile and a variety of other digestive enzymes. This will also provide some extra digestive support. Start slowly and build up to a full dosage if your shepherd is experiencing regular diarrhea. Keeping the gut flora in good working order will help your dog to absorb as many nutrients as possible. Good bacteria in the gut will also help with enzyme production, so don't leave the good bacteria out! Look for canine-specific, high potency, multi-strain probiotics with a pre-biotic added. Feed a lean, low-fat raw diet. High-fat diets can overwork the pancreas and the liver and are not recommended for shepherds with EPI or other pancreatic dysfunction. High-quality lean protein will help pack on the pounds for shepherds having difficulty gaining weight. Steer clear of lamb, duck, and other naturally high-fat meats. Cook yams or squash to add as low-glycemic carbohydrates. Cooked yams and squash are more nutritious and easier to digest than other forms of carbohydrate, such as rice or oatmeal. Also yams and squash pair better with the digestibility of raw foods. Remove the skin, unless vegetables are organic then you can keep the skins on. Make all dietary changes slowly and add one thing at a time. Stress Aging These complications may affect the appetite of your dog and eventually make your dog lose weight. In extreme cases, serious diseases like cancer, diabetes, kidney failure, and gastrointestinal disorders can also be the cause. How bad can underweight be? An underweight dog can be a sign of some serious health problems. This will result in weakened immunity, reduced mobility, loss of muscular function, retarded growth, or thyroid problems. Nutritional deficiencies in an underweight dog can also find their way to some major issues like weakened bones, heart and kidney problems, hormonal imbalance, skin problems, and delayed wound healing. Ultimately, an underweight dog has a reduced lifespan than a normal dog. The simple way to determine whether your GSD is underweight is to look after his bones like ribs, pelvis, and vertebrae. If these become very prominent and seen grossly, then obviously your dog is skinny and underweight. This shows that your dog lacks fat and muscles in these areas. Identifying the causes of being underweight of your GSD is more important before helping him with weight gaining. Therefore, gaining more weight surely helps him to lead a normal life. How much should your German Shepherd weigh? The weight of the full-sized German Shepherd varies on their sex. An adult German Shepherd male typically weighs between 75 to 90 lbs, while female weight ranges from 60 to 70 lbs. In the below tables, you can find the weight chart for both male and female GSDs.

I'm a hobby breeder and all our pets are raised inside our home or with our guardians. Experienced Breeders We focus on breeding the best puppies and socializing and culturing their personality as soon as they are born. The parents are our pets and live in our home or placed at a guardian home in a very loving environment. Our puppies are spoiled and well-taken care to facilitate a smooth transition to the puppy's new home. Our Mini Goldendoodle Puppies will get used to hearing the noises that they will encounter in their future life. Introduction to the vacuum cleaner, force blow dryer and clippers. Slamming doors, gates and dropped objects Honking horn and running car engine High fidelity noises such as thunder, fireworks, gunshots, wind storm, alarm clock, lawnmower, power saw, buzzers, bells, children playing, thumps, bumps, and much more. Sound conditioning will continue at each meal until puppies go home to their new families. We welcome your questions. The best way to contact me is by email. Thank you for considering us. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram for upcoming litter minigoldendoodlesofgeorgia Christy. Mini lbs or Micro 15 lbs. Our pets are Genetically tested. They range from 13 to 20 inches in height and 15 to 35 pounds in weight. We carefully choose our Mini Bernedoodle to produce soft wavy to curly hair and have a great temperament. Our puppies are perfect for any family who's ready to bring a pet home. Bring a puppy home for a responsible breeder. Sign Up For Updates. Mini Sheepadoodle The Club Commitment It is our promise to put your puppies welfare as our top priority. That is why we have 24 hour on-site team members to care for your puppy everyday. We are committed to ensuring your new puppy is healthy and ready to join your family. If there is something that later comes up as a hereditary or congenital concern, you will have the peace of mind in knowing that we will stand behind your puppy. Welcoming a new family member into your home is an exciting journey, and we want to provide you with the utmost confidence in your adoption. Full Terms of Guarantee Dedicated Partner Breeders We value the trusting relationship we have with our partner breeders who share our dedication and commitment to providing clients with healthy and socialized puppies. When we visit their homes, it warms our hearts to see their devotion to the exercise, socialization, and exceptional veterinary care of their dogs. We have a zero-tolerance for substandard breeders. Up to 10 Year Health Guarantee Welcoming a new family member into your home is an exciting journey and we want to provide confidence when you take one of our fur-babies home! Mini Bernedoodles have great Personalities and make great family dogs! Mini Bernedoodle Puppies for Sale. Find Bernedoodle puppies for saleNear Georgia. We provide expert puppy training to give you the perfect package without hassle. Molly above right and Chip in the middle had seven puppies born on April 5, .This cross makes them low-shedding, and suitable for apartment living. Check out our website and fill out a puppy application to get on the waitlist. Contact Information: Phone Number: Email: kandwfarms2 gmail. We carefully choose our Mini Bernedoodle to produce soft wavy to curly hair and have a great temperament. Mini Bernedoodle Breed Info. We breed Multi-Generation Mini 25 lbslbs Micro 20lbs lbs. The Miniature Bernadoodle is the perfect cross between the beautiful Bernese Mountain Dog and the intelligent miniature poodle. Rocket is a Tri-Color Bernedoodle who's so spectacular that not a single person has ever been able to pass without some adoring puppy comment, or kneeling for a quick pet and closer look. We even have fully trained puppies to make things easy on you! Bernedoodle Breeders in Georgia. Bernedoodle puppies for sale in Georgia from trusted breeders. Home Goldendoodle, Sheepadoodles, Bernedoodles raised by Champions of. However, there are also smaller versions of this breed known as micro mini or Tiny Bernedoodles. Georgia Designer Mini Bernedoodles Puppies! Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. A Bernedoodle is a cross involving a Standard poodle and a Bernese mountain dog. What is a Bernedoodle? Hugo has beautiful hazel eyes and will throw out amazing exotic colors. Micro bernedoodle Female. It would be our pleasure to match you with the right breed for you between goldendoodles, sheepadoodles, golden mountain doodles and bernedoodles. Teddybear English Goldendoodle and Bernedoodle …. Mini Fb Bernedoodles are typically low shedding and between lbs fully grown. Goldendoodles, Bernedoodles, Golden Mtn Doodles. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. Our dogs thrive in this environment. Bernedoodles are excellent pets to have if you are the mushy type. With the variety of different coat colors that come with the bernadoodle you are sure to find one that fits your aesthetic perfectly. A standard sized F1 Bernedoodle can be between 65 and pound and 23 to 29 inches tall at the shoulder. Welcome Welcome to Bluff Country Bernedoodles. Our puppies are perfect for any family who's ready to bring a pet home. A Bernedoodle is also sometimes called a Bernese. They are a highly recommended family dog breed and are. This adorable breed is also highly sociable. Bernedoodle puppies for sale in Georgia from trusted …. Willow Creek Bernedoodles. Best Designer Mini Bernedoodles for sale! Blue Diamond Pups! Mini Bernedoodle Puppies For Sale. The result is a friendly, low-shedding cross breed that can make excellent companion animals or family pets. Welcome to Bluff Country Bernedoodles. Nora is health tested and cleared of all genetic diseases. Pick your perfect pup and get ready to fall in love at first sight! Bernedoodle Puppy Alumni Finding the perfect Bernedoodle puppy has never been easier. You do not, however, want to adopt fragile and sensitive puppies from a terrible breeder. Happy Top Doodles is located conveniently between Atlanta, Georgia and Chattanooga, Tennessee in the beautiful North Georgia mountains We are dedicated to raising Goldendoodles, Bernedoodles, Sheepadoodles, and Australian Bernedoodles with great temperaments and dispositions. They thrive in a setting where attention and fun are plentiful. Mini Bernedoodles are designed to be loyal and loving companions for equally loving owners. They range from 13 to 20 inches in height and 15 to 35 pounds in weight. Puppies designed for cuddles, love, and joy, the Mini Bernedoodle puppies are a superb mix of a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Mini Poodle. Our home and facilities are located on a sprawling acre wooded farm with rolling hills, a spring-fed pond and a babbling creek. We respect your privacy. Miniature Bernedoodle Puppies. Island Doodles of Georgia. A cross of a Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle, they're generally large, friendly, people-loving dogs with wavy hair. Bernedoodle Puppies in Georgia — Top 7 Breeders! Mini Bernedoodle's Of Georgia. Coat: Thick, and can vary from wavy or curly to straight. A mini Bernedoodle typically has a longer lifespan than a Standard Bernedoodle due to being smaller in size. The Mini Bernedoodle is a newer breed that combines the beauty and personality of a Bernese Mountain dog with the intelligence and hypo-allergenic qualities of a poodle. MiNi Goldendoodles Of Georgia. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. They can be the best cuddle buddies for laid-back owners and the most adventurous sidekicks for outdoorsy owners. Our Mini Bernedoodle puppies for sale are known for their inherited intelligence and playfulness. Mini Bernedoodles are excellent dogs for any type of lifestyle. Goldendoodle, Sheepadoodle, Bernedoodle puppies raised at Champions of. Thus, this Bernedoodle Breeder in Georgia offers puppies at excellent prices and with superb health. Mini Aussiedoodle Puppies For Sale. The Bernedoodle is a newer breed, a mix of two very different dogs to create one fantastic friend. Welcome to Mini Goldendoodles Of Georgia. Our purpose is to find loving homes for our beloved fur babies. Bernedoodle puppies for sale from trusted breeders. Bernedoodle Breeders in Georgia! The Bernedoodle and its mini version originated in. A mini Bernedoodle can weigh pounds and be inches tall as an adult. The cross is known for its hypoallergenic properties. Our Social Media Channels See all of our posts in one place. Our land includes beautiful bluffs, trees, and a creek that flows. Mini Berniedoodle Size Comparison You may be thinking that 20 to 50 pounds is a huge size range and you would be correct. Properly bred Bernedoodles and mini. A selective kennel raising spectacular Goldendoodle puppies, Sheepadoodle puppies, and Bernedoodle puppies in Georgia. Bernedoodles come in all sorts of incredible coat colors, patterns, and different sizes. The Truth About Mini Bernedoodles. They are a big part of our family and farm. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. This is known as an F1 Mini Bernedoodle, which is a first generation cross that is considered to be the healthiest of all Bernedoodle crosses. A Mini Bernedoodle typically weighs between pounds and is inches tall. Their life expectancy is years. Sugar Hill, GA. Website : PuppySpot's Bernedoodles. All of the puppies found great new homes! Our Family of Micro and Mini Bernedoodles! Aussiedoodle are a friendly and playful breed that make for great family dogs. Our Mini Bernedoodles typically range from lbs full grown. Our family, along with our dogs, live on 40 acres outside Decorah, Iowa. Bernedoodles are also highly intelligent and easy to train, making them great for families who want a well-behaved pet. Bernedoodles, Australian Bernedoodles, and Sheepadoodles. Ready to go home April 29,! Miniature to medium Bernedoodles in North Georgia! We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. First on our list of the top Bernedoodle breeders in Georgia is Doodles on the Ridge. Here at The Georgia Dog Club, we are a tight-knit family of caring and trustworthy breeders. It is a very special place to us. Some "designer dogs" grow 15 to 40lbs with a semi hypoallergenic coat of different colors and textures. Shipping is extra- 2 collection. Bernedoodle Breeders in Georgia GA. Size: inches tall, lbs. Bernedoodle Puppies For Sale. Our land includes beautiful bluffs, trees, and a creek that flows through the woods and pastureland. They are careful around small children and great at making friends. They are extremely smart, loyal and are known for their good nature. A fully-grown Standard Bernedoodle usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. Mini Bernedoodle puppies also come with high intelligence, cheer, good manners, and generous affection. These dogs are medium-sized, and they have an average lifespan of .Goldendoodle, Sheepadoodle, Bernedoodle puppies raised at …. About Bernedoodles. While you may be familiar with Bernedoodles, the Mini Bernedoodle is simply a smaller version of the hybrid. A few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups. Look No Further! Raised with love and In our home! They are amazing family dogs and are very gentle around children and adults of all ages! The Bernedoodle and the Mini Bernedoodle are relatively new in terms of designer breeds. Mini Bernedoodle: Size, Temperament, Price, …. Learn more puppies available certified breeders Transportation. Best Bernedoodle and Mini Bernedoodles for Sale. His good looks are only dwarfed by his sweet demeanor and curious puppy personality. The Bernedoodle. After the first 8 weeks of their lives, you may want your doodle to get a headstart with their training. Bernedoodle Puppies — Mini. These dogs didn't first appear until the early s. Standard Bernedoodles generally live for years on average. You've come to the right place. Here, at Premier Pups, our Mini Bernedoodles are happy, healthy, and ready to embark on a life-long journey with their new families. These puppies are raised with love and cared for by the best in the business. We align ourselves only with the best breeders that meet our high standards. All our Mini Bernedoodles come with a year health guarantee that backs up our Premier Promise. Nationwide delivery is available for all out-of-state customers looking to adopt a Mini Bernedoodle. The beautiful Mini Bernedoodles are a blend of fluffy looks and darling personalities. They can be small or medium depending on their generation, but regardless of their size, they are simply adorable. Mini Bernedoodles are designed to be loyal and loving companions for equally loving owners. They thrive in a setting where attention and fun are plentiful. We partner with the best dog breeders in the nation to offer you healthy, happy Mini Bernedoodle puppies. Find your dream Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle mix puppy today! A few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups. View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Atlanta Georgia and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups! If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More Anyone planning to adopt a Bernedoodle in Georgia knows that finding a good, reputable breeder is a long and time-consuming process. To make your life a little bit easier, we decided to take the matters into our own hands to find the best breeders in your state. All of these breeders follow responsible breeding guidelines and have a proven track-record of being trustworthy and ethical establishments. These pups are extremely loving companions, even gentle giants as many call them. And thanks to the Poodle genes, these Doods make excellent companions for people who are looking for a low-shedding , hypoallergenic companion. Doodle Mountain is a small in-home breeder that raises all of their pups in a loving family environment. They spoil their puppies every single day and make sure that each of them gets used to the regular sights and sounds of a busy household from an early age. What Makes This Breeder Unique? For this, they implement various forms of enrichment methods, such as crate training, potty training, early socialization, regular grooming, and leash walking.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Have you seen a dog that looks more like a big, white bear than a dog? You may be thinking of a Great Pyrenees Lab mix. Also known as a Pyrador or Labrenees, this handsome dog is a mix between a Great Pyrenees and a Labrador retriever. If you would love to have a little white bear well, little by bear standards at your side as a companion, read on to learn everything you need to know about these special crossbreed dogs. The dogs are originally from Canada but were exported to the United Kingdom where they were bred as game retrieving dogs with a particular talent for wet environments. These dogs are known for their intelligence, eagerness to learn and work, and intelligent demeanor. This is why they are often utilized in roles such as disability support. Great Pyrenees dogs, also known as Pyrenees Mountain Dogs, were bred in France as livestock guard dogs. They are large dogs that are able to protect flocks of chickens and ducks from animals like wolves and bears. These dogs have been bred to be independent and protective so they can diligently protect their flocks without much supervision. The Great Pyrenees Lab mix started to emerge in the early s after Labradoodles became popular. Breeders started to wonder what other mixed breeds based on Labs could be popular. These dogs were immediately popular, as they looked like little white bears and had loyal, friendly personalities. Appearance First and foremost, you should expect your Pyrador to be a big dog. Labs usually measure between .Great Pyrenees are even bigger, measuring between 26 and 32 inches tall and potentially weighing up to pounds. Their mixed-breed children are large dogs with a strong and muscular body structure. Both breeds have a similar facial structure with a long nose and floppy ears, so you can expect some variation on that. This is a dense, high-shedding double coat. Labs also have a high-shedding double coat, so whatever they inherit, expect them to shed a lot! Daily brushing is the best way to keep this under control. Most Pyrador dogs are white because this is a dominant gene, and breeders often control for this desirable trait. Temperament Labrador retrievers are among the friendliest dogs. They tend to want to make friends with everyone, including small animals and small children. They are more likely to lick a stranger than bark at them or raise the alert. Great Pyrenees, on the other hand, are warier of strangers, as is necessary for them to fulfill their role as protectors. They tend to be very loving and gentle with their family, the people they see as in their care, including children and other dogs. However, they can be aloof and even aggressive with strangers at first. Proper socialization from a young age is necessary to keep aggressive tendencies in check and ensure they have the friendly temperament of a Lab, while still being able to raise the alarm when needed. Both dog breeds thrive when they are part of a family, and this is something that is true of their offspring as well. While this means they become part of the family quickly, it also means they can become depressed or anxious if they are left alone for extended periods of time. They do best in households where there is always someone around or if they can accompany their people on their daily adventures. Labs tend to be very keen to please their humans. They love learning new things and having work to do, especially if they are rewarded for their efforts. This makes them among the most trainable dogs and is the reason why they are often chosen to complete complicated tasks such as disability support tasks. Great Pyrenees dogs were bred to be intelligent enough to know what to do on their own to protect their flock. This makes them very independent and less inclined to perform for reward. While their mixed-breed offspring certainly can be trained, it is best done at a young age, before six months, so they learn the essentials before their independent streak really kicks in. Never use punishment with a Pyrador. Labs are sensitive and it can cause unexpected behavior, and you might completely lose control of a rebellious Great Pyrenees. Always opt for reward-based training and offer lots of praise. They should be taken out for at least one formal exercise session each day for about an hour. As well as physical stimulation, these dogs need plenty of mental stimulation. The learning process is stimulating and helps keep their brains healthy and their attitudes calm. Consider teaching your dog hand signals as a new and useful skill for them to master. Ideally, these dogs need a larger space with an outdoor area where they can burn off their energy as needed throughout the day. Health Concerns Great Pyrenees Labrador retriever mixes are generally healthy dogs and have a life expectancy of roughly 10 to 12 years, which is good for such a large dog. But like many large dogs, they can suffer from elbow and hip dysplasia. This is a malformation of the joint usually caused by different parts of their body growing at different speeds, causing their joints to not fit together correctly. This can cause them great pain and mobility issues as they get older. The best protection against this condition is proper nutrition and exercise starting when they are young. Big dogs need a high-quality diet that is full of animal-based proteins. They also need plenty of exercise, but not too much when they are a pup. Over-exercising energetic puppies is often a problem. As a rule of thumb, they should have about 5 minutes of formal exercise each day for every month of age. So, according to this general rule, a six-month-old pup needs about 30 minutes of exercise a day. Another potential health issue to keep in mind is bloat, as larger dogs are more prone to overeating. They also tend to have sensitive stomachs. Avoid irritants and overfeeding to keep their digestive system healthy. Never leave food out for them to graze. Instead, have set meal times with the right amount of calories, and never feed them food off your own plate! Keep track of their caloric intake and prevent them from begging others for food. Pyradors can also often develop both sight and hearing problems as they get older. It is not uncommon for them to lose at least some of their sight or hearing, but they are usually adaptable enough to manage with just a little bit of extra help from you. Other concerns include the potential to develop osteosarcoma, a common bone cancer in dogs, and degenerative myelopathy, a progressive spinal cord issue. Having read our full description of these wonderful dogs, are you considering taking one home? Or are you still not sure if they are the right dog for you? Ask yourself the following questions to make a more informed, responsible decision. How Big Is Your Home? Pyradors are big dogs, and by definition, big dogs need a lot of space. Because Pyradors are also high energy, they really need a relatively large home with an outdoor space that they can use throughout the day. These dogs need lots of exercise. An hour a day is the minimum amount they need to thrive. On top of this, they should be joining you on hiking trips, swimming excursions, and other adventures. Do you have the kind of active lifestyle that this dog will enjoy as well? These dogs love being around people and can develop separation anxiety if they are left alone for extended periods. Not only is this bad for their health, but it often manifests as destructive behavior. Is there generally someone about your house, or is everyone out for hours at a time at work and school? Do you have the kind of job where you could take your dog with you most days? While these dogs are very intelligent, they can also be quite stubborn. This means they need to be trained extremely well from the outset, and they need a firm hand to guide them. They will respond best to an authoritative figure with the confidence to control such a large canine. If you or someone close to you has a dog hair allergy, then this is not the dog for you! Pyradors shed a lot, and there is not much you can do about it. You can read our complete guide to keeping your home free from pet hair here. Do You Have Small Children? So, you can certainly have a Pyrador around small children, though they do better with older children. Their size and energy levels mean they can easily overwhelm small children and be a burden for new parents. They do better with slightly older children who can play with them more independently. Still, small children should never be unsupervised with dogs, even if they are very familiar. Accidents can always happen, especially with large dogs like this one. The protective instinct of their Great Pyrenees parent means these pups are up to the task. Can You Afford It? Owning a dog can be quite expensive. Can you make this financial commitment? This is an important question, especially when speaking about large dogs since they eat a lot. A dog that weighs more than pounds needs about five cups of food per day. These dogs have sensitive stomachs, so you need to give them good quality food. This can get expensive. Are you willing to make that commitment for the next 10 to 12 years? Considering Great Pyrenees are big dogs that can weigh up to pounds, their offspring are also pretty big. When mixed with a standard size Labrador retriever, you can probably expect your pup to grow to between 23 and 28 inches and anywhere from 70 to pounds. Are Pyradors good dogs? Yes, Pyradors are great dogs that mix the friendliness and intelligence of a Lab with the protectiveness and loyalty of a Great Pyrenees. They need to be properly socialized and trained, and they need lots of love, attention, and exercise. Are Great Pyrenees aggressive dogs? Great Pyrenees are not naturally aggressive dogs, but they have been bred to protect livestock from the likes of wolves and bears. Proper socialization as a pup, before six months of age and throughout their life is essential to ensure your dog continues to be friendly and trainable. Are Great Pyrenees smart dogs? Yes, Great Pyrenees are considered to be highly intelligent dogs, but that does not make them highly trainable like a Labrador or a poodle. This is because they have a very independent mindset and prefer to think for themselves rather than be led. However, appropriate training from a young age can keep their rebellious streak in check. The Verdict If you love larger dogs and would love to snuggle up on the couch with a cuddly white bear, then a Great Pyrenees Lab mix might be just the dog for you. These big, fluffy companions are gorgeous and mix the friendliness of a Lab with the natural protective instincts of a Great Pyrenees. They make great family pets and can also function as guard dogs. Keep in mind, though, that these pups are quite a bit of work. They also need to be properly trained and socialized when they are young, and they need to learn new skills throughout their lives to keep their brains healthy. Overall, the Pyrador is: Intelligent and friendly Large with a dense, high-shedding coat that needs frequent grooming While it is certainly a commitment to become the parent of a Pyrador, the unconditional love and friendship you will receive in return makes it well worth the investment. Have you ever worked with a Great Pyrenees Lab mix dog? Share your experiences with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. They can have solid colors or a combination of two or more colors. Help Dogs In Need Our blog posts aim to provide comprehensive, accurate, and objective information on all types of dogs, helping our readers make informed choices that fit their lifestyle. We don't endorse any specific breeding practices, but advocate for ethical breeding and dog welfare. We encourage exploring adoption first. Countless wonderful dogs, from all breeds, await their forever homes in shelters. Remember, with AdoptDontShop, you can give a deserving rescue a second chance at happiness. Pyradors are gentle giants who love to be around people and are great with children. They are also protective of their family and make excellent watchdogs. The star Pyrador character trait is their protective instinct. In terms of intelligence, Pyradors are highly intelligent dogs that are quick learners. They are eager to please and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. They are also very adaptable and can learn to adjust to different environments and situations. Health and Lifespan of a Pyrador Pyradors are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. However, they are prone to certain health issues their parents breed. Obesity: Research has shown that about 8. Serious Ear infections that lead to hot ears and a foul smell, especially if chocolate labs are used. Cancers such as osteosarcoma. Neurological issues like Neuronal Degeneration. Eye issues like entropion and ectropion eyelid diseases. Exercise-induced collapse. Dental issues, skin infections, allergies leading to face swelling , and food sensitivity. It is important to avoid overfeeding your Pyrador and to monitor their weight regularly. Labs never get tired of food and may pass this appetite to these mixes. Therefore ration the food properly to prevent obesity, and feed them twice a day to prevent bloat. This is also a very large to giant breed dog, and it is absolutely essential to keep them lean to minimize joint issues as they grow. Exercise Needs It is recommended to give Labreneese at least 45 to 60 minutes of exercise daily, but they can handle more if they are given the opportunity. However, remember that they may suffer from exercise-induced collapse, so give them low-impact workouts. They should also not do too much running or jumping to save their joints. Pyradors also enjoy swimming, hiking, and playing fetch. It is important to provide them with enough space to move around and play. They also need mental stimulation using puzzle toys and commands. How To Groom a Pyrador Pyradors have a thick double coat that requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and clean. As far as grooming goes, these dogs are quite high-maintenance. They shed moderately throughout the year but tend to shed heavily during seasonal changes. Brushing their coat at least three times a week can help reduce shedding and prevent matting. Bathing should be done monthly or as needed with a gentle shampoo , but not too often, as it can strip their coat of natural oils. It is important to clean their ears with dog ear wipes biweekly and trim their nails monthly with canine cutters to avoid infections and discomfort. Brush their teeth 2 to 3 times a week and use a doggy dental rinse. It is vital to know how to groom a Labrador Pyrenees mix because these dogs are extremely prone to heavy matting when they have longer fur. See this video for how to groom a Great Pyrenees for a guideline for what it take to really take care of their coat: Does the Pyrador get along with other animals and children? Pyradors are known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them great companions for families with children and other pets. Socialization allows these dogs to get along with other animals better. However, they can sometimes be aggressive with other dogs of the same gender. When raised with other animals, they can be quite protective. Training a Pyrador Training a Pyrador can be a rewarding experience for both the owner and the dog. Pyradors are intelligent and trainable, but they can be stubborn at times and a little slow to react to commands. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key when it comes to training a Pyrador, and they do tend to work well for food, so handfeeding is really helpful with these dogs. Pyradors are also known for their protective nature, so it is important to teach them when it is appropriate to bark or alert their owners. However, it is equally important to teach them when to stop barking and how to respond to commands to calm down. Ideal Pyrador Home A home with a yard People that want a guard dog Non-allergic individuals Multi-pet homes Where to Get a Pyrador Pyradors are a unique and beautiful breed that can make excellent companions for the right owner. Some organizations may also offer training and support to help you and your new dog adjust to life together. Breeders Breeders can provide you with a puppy that has been carefully selected for health and temperament. When looking for a Pyrador breeder, ask to see health certifications for the parents and puppies. Good breeders will be happy to provide this information and will be transparent about any health issues in their breeding lines. Remember, the Pyrador is not a recognized purebred dog, so the likelihood that they are backyard bred without proper health and temperament testing is very high. Frequently Asked Questions Are Pyradors aggressive? Pyradors are generally not aggressive dogs. They are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities and are often great with children. However, as with any breed, individual temperament can vary, and some Pyradors may have a more protective or territorial nature. Proper socialization and training can help ensure a well-behaved Pyrador. Is a Pyrador a good hunting dog? Pyradors are not generally good hunting dogs. They can make passable family guardians though. Is the Pyrador hypoallergenic? No, Pyradors are not hypoallergenic. Both the Labrador Retriever and the Great Pyrenees are known for shedding, and Pyradors inherit this trait. They require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and to minimize shedding. Is a Great Pyrenees lab mix a good dog? Pyradors, also known as Great Pyrenees Lab mixes, can make great pets for the right family. They are loyal, affectionate, and intelligent dogs. They are also better guard dogs than their Lab parents. However, they do require regular exercise and mental stimulation, and their size and shedding can be a consideration for some families. Does the Pyrador shed? Yes, Pyradors shed. Regular grooming can help minimize shedding. Does the Pyrador drool? Some Pyradors may drool, while others may not. The Great Pyrenees is known for drooling, while the Labrador Retriever is not. Final Thoughts The Pyrador is a relatively new breed that was created by crossing two purebred dogs: the Labrador Retriever and the Great Pyrenees. They are known for their friendly and loyal nature, as well as their intelligence and trainability. Tamsin De La Harpe Author Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs. Got Questions? It is one of the more recent mixed breed dogs growing in popularity among lovers of the parent breeds. As with all hybrid crossbreeds, a Great Pyrenees Lab mix bears the best of the genetic, temperament, and physical traits of the parent breeds. However, a Pyrador may also inherit some health and temperament issues from either parent. Today, the Lab Great Pyrenees mix is bred as a family pet, but the parent dogs were originally bred for two completely different purposes. The Great Pyrenees The Great Pyrenees, also called Pyrenean Mountain dog or simply Pyr, is a working dog originally bred to guard sheep against wolves and other human and wildlife predators. The Pyrs are said to originate from the French side, while their counterparts, the Pyrenean Mastiff dog, originated from the Spanish side of the Mountains. The first Great Pyrenees dogs can be traced back to around BC. Do you want to know why Pyrs are great dogs? With time, livestock predators decreased, and Pyrs became less common. Later, the arrival of Pyrs in North America helped in the efforts to preserve the Great Pyrenees dogs. The AKC registered Pyrs as a breed in .The Labrador Retriever Labrador Retriever is a household name in the world of dog ownership. Discovered by English nobles in the easterly province of Newfoundland in Canada, these dogs were brought to the UK in the early s for their impressive fowl retrieving skills. It remains unclear why the breed bears the name Labrador, a western city of Newfoundland and Labrador province of Canada. As they are commonly known today, Labs were refined and standardized through breeding in the UK and registered by the English Kennel Club in .Their retrieval skills were used to recover game, not just in water but even on land. Like all other hybrid dogs, the Pyrador is not officially recognized as a breed by the AKC. However, you can register your Pyrador as a mixed breed with the Dog Registry of America. The Great Pyrenees Lab mix has physical features inherited from both parents: a broad head, black nose, brown or hazel eyes, long and thick tail, and black, white, yellow, chocolate, or a mixture of these coat colors. These features can vary from one Pyrador to another depending on how much of each feature the Great Pyrenees Lab cross inherits from each parent. It could be a fifty-fifty inheritance from each parent or a higher percentage from either the sire or dam. Head: A Pyrador has a fairly broad skull with a somewhat wedge shape, borrowing from both parents. Eyes, nose, and ears: Labreenes have a face and eyes that are somewhere between the extremely happy and kind eyes of the Lab and the somewhat serious look of the Pyr. The eyes are medium size with a brown or hazel color. The nose is generally black, but it could be brown if the Labrador parent is chocolate. The ears are long, triangular, and floppy. Tail: Considering the long tails of both parents, the Lab Great Pyrenees mix bears a long and thick tail with medium to long hairs. The tail is typically carried low, but the dog may curve the tail over his back when aroused. Coat type and color: Labs and Pyrs both have double coats, with Great Pyrenees having long coats while Labradors have medium-length coats. As such, Pyradors will come with double coats but may show variation in coat hair length depending on which dog parent they inherit from most. The Great Pyrenees Lab mix are large dogs. Female Pyradors are approximately .See a summary of these Pyrador size estimates in the table below: Labrador Retriever. Labrenees Description The Pyrador is not a purebred dog. It is a cross between the Great Pyrenees and the Labrador Retriever. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. He weighs about 80 lbs. He is also the calmest out of his brothers and sisters and looks more like a Pyrenees than they do, as you will see from his photos. His siblings have more of a Lab face and are smaller in stature. I walk him between 1 to 2 hours every day and when he is allowed off leash he runs around like a dog in heaven. I also discovered he loves the snow. I'm still trying to teach him that he can swim, but he's getting used to his size I think. He has a generally very mellow nature and is definitely bred from guard dogs as he guards me and the family constantly. He has a very deep, loud bark but is learning not to bark at everything. He loves people and other dogs and wants to be friends with everyone. I'm still feeding him twice a day but he doesn't gulp his food. Sometimes he even has to be encouraged to eat. He has a cream-coloured coat, longer than most Labs, but nowhere near the length and thickness of a pure Pyrenees. He also has some of the golden tan markings of the Pyrenees along his back, tail and ears. Pyrador puppy breeders Your Pyrador should be long lived and healthy provided you buy your puppy from a litter with health tested parents. Of course, with a mixture of exercise, training, and early socialization, the Pyrador will make a wonderful family companion! Origin of the Great Pyrenees Lab Mix The Pyrador has a strong working history, bred from two very different lines of intelligent and cooperative dog breeds. The Lab parent started out as a retrieving breed alongside fishermen in Newfoundland, Canada. Now in modern times, the Lab is most often a devoted family pet. But they are also excellent service animals. Their intelligence and loyalty make them excellent support animals to their human counterparts. This is an extremely old breed, used for centuries by shepherds to guard livestock, where their bravery in going up against predators such as wolves and bears became legendary! Pyrador Appearances The Pyrador is a large dog with an even build and long muzzle. The ears hang low and floppy, and the coat tends to be short in fist generation mixes. You can increase the likelihood of certain colors by choosing parents with the same fur color. For instance, a Great Pyrenees black Lab mix! With each color coming in a variety of shades. The Great Pyrenees, on the other hand, has a mostly white, shaggy coat, that can have slight color variations in some areas, including yellow, badger, reddish brown, tan and gray. Grooming and Shedding The Lab and the Great Pyrenees are shedders, so their pups will need brushing at least once a week. More in molting season. No matter which parent your puppy takes after, you can expect a lot of shedding. For the most part, the Labrador Pyrenees mix should be easy to care for as far as grooming goes. Groom your Pyrador once or twice a week to keep their coat in its best condition. Regular nail trimming and ear cleaning are also advised. An adult Great Pyrenees looks bigger than he is because of his thick, durable coat. But, he is still a large dog, who will grow to be 32 inches tall and can weigh up to pounds. An adult Pyrador will be anywhere between inches tall and weigh anywhere from pounds. They absolutely love being in the center of fun family activities! But, if left to get bored, they can be destructive. The Great Pyrenees is consistently and affectionately renowned as a gentle giant who loves to play and especially enjoys the snow! He is most famous for his mild-mannered temperament, but he is able to move swiftly to address anything he may consider to be a threat to his family. The Pyrador will be an intelligent, playful, family-friendly dog who enjoys being with his people and requires plenty of exercise. But, he takes his watch-dog role rather seriously, so he should be supervised with outsiders. This is a trait that can be passed on to the Great Pyrenees Lab mix. And, in some circumstances, guarding instincts and loyalty can stray into aggression. Especially towards strangers and other animals. Pyrador Socialization Socialization involves introducing a puppy to as many new experiences as possible during their fear period. This period lasts from around 8 weeks old to 16 weeks at the very latest. So, during this time, make sure your Pyrador has positive experiences with strangers, other dogs, other animals, and any places of things he will encounter in his later life. This could include a noisy schoolyard, a train, a beach, and much more. Since puppies may not have all their vaccinations during socialization, you may also need to invest in a puppy sling to help you carry your ever-growing Pyrador pup around! Socialization is important even if your Great Pyrenees and Lab mix seems to take more after their Lab parent. All dog breeds can benefit from it! Training The temperament of the Great Pyrenees and the Lab are quite similar in many areas. But they differ slightly when it comes to trainability. Both the Lab and the Great Pyrenees are intelligent breeds. But while the Lab enjoys learning new things and is eager to please, the Great Pyrenees is more independent. Keep in mind the Pyrador mix could inherit this independence from his Great Pyrenees parent, or he could be more prone to easy training like his Lab parent. Either way, we recommend proper socializing and training with your Pyrador. Always keep the training techniques positive and fun. Remember that training can be an excellent bonding opportunity for you and your Pyrador puppy. Exercise Needs Both parent breeds are active dogs that need daily exercise. So this is something almost guaranteed in your Pyrador mix. Proper exercise will also help to reduce the chances of boredom-related damages to material goods in the home. And it can be another great way to bond with your dog! Ideally, a Great Pyrenees Lab mix needs a large, safely enclosed yard to play in, plus some dedicated time for exercise with you each day, once their joints are fully developed. Great Pyrenee Health and Care Because the Pyrador is a cross between the Lab and the Great Pyrenees, he could be predisposed to any of the above inheritable health issues of his purebred parents. Remember that early health screening in your Pyrador crossbreed puppy can help avoid or prepare for any future genetic problems. You can learn more about the health testing requirements as specified by the AKC for the Labrador and the Great Pyrenees here. As with all breeds, some health problems are passed down from generation to generation, and the purebred Lab is no exception. Some health concerns with the Lab include: Hip dysplasia. The breeding of Great Pyrenees and labrador retriever resulted in a mix, which is large in size with characteristics coming from both parents. Female Pyradors usually are smaller than the male ones in terms of height and weight. The coat color and type are a combination of the traits coming from the two parents. However, for most cases, the coat color of a Great Pyrenees lab mix is white. While both parents are intelligent, the herding nature came from the Great Pyrenees while the hunting and playful natures are from the Labrador. Applies to all dog food recalls in the U. However, the Dogs Registry of America Inc. Keep in mind that you need to avoid online ads and online pet stores that sell Pyrador puppies unless you know someone who benefited with it. Before purchasing a puppy, make sure to check all medical histories of its parents. If you found a breeding facility, make sure that there are no sick animals present in the facility. Try to ask if they use genetic testing and to have a tour around the facility. If the personnel does not agree, find another facility. Although Labradors are a healthier breed of dog, Great Pyrenees come with a lot of possible health issues. They may have Great Pyrenees mixed with labrador dogs up for adoption. The coat color of your puppy depends on the color of its parent, so if you want a specific color, better request it to your breeder. Its coat matted easily, too but daily brushing can keep that problem away. The Great Pyrenees lab mix inherited the double coat of a Labrador retriever. Check its ears around three times in a week and clean it if necessary. Doing his will keep your dog from ear wax accumulation and possible ear infection. The nails and mouth are needs weekly checking. While the double coat does not directly affect the grooming, it positively affects the fur shedding of the mix. Great Pyrenees lab mix sheds a lot, especially in shedding season, which happens twice a year. However, even without the shedding season, the combination will still shed a lot due to its large size. Great Pyrenees crossed with Lab Health Problems Although a labrador retriever is a healthy dog to be a parent, a Great Pyrenees dog has a lot of complications as a pure breed. Since Great Pyrenees lab mix is breed between the two, it tends to inherit health problems from its parents. However, the concept of hybrid vigor tells customers that the mix is healthier than both of its parents. Here are some diseases that your Pyradors may get: Bloat: In the medical world, bloat is known as gastric dilatation and volvulus GDV. While it does not pose harm to humans, bloat can be fatal in some dogs. Veterinarians say that there are no exact reasons why dogs experienced bloat and bloat cases are random. However, larger dogs like great pyrene lab mix often experience GDV. Twisting of the stomach and filling up of gas characterizes the disease. The twisting causes stomach rupture and damage and may affect nearby organs like the spleen as well. Elbow and Hip Dysplasia: Dysplasia is a disease where the specific sockets have an abnormal formation In the Great Pyrenees lab mix, the dysplasia often happens in its elbow and hip parts. Dysplasia is common in large breeds of dogs like the Great Pyrenees lab mix. Labrador retrievers, one parent of the mix, often experience this kind of disease and the combination may inherit it. The disease causes lameness and joint arthritis to the dog, which affects its walking capability. The environment where the dog lives in also contributes to the incorrect formation of joints. Osteosarcoma: Osteosarcoma is the most common bone cancer that can affect dogs. Just like bloat and dysplasia, this condition affects larger dogs the most. However, there are cases of bone cancer in smaller dogs. While the situation is not specifically genetics, breeds can inherit the condition from its parents. Osteosarcoma symptoms include bone pain and inflammation in the area where the tumor is growing. Degenerative myelopathy: The condition targets the spinal cord of the dog, which eventually paralyzes the hind legs. Weaker limbs are observable with dogs suffering from this disease. Degenerative myelopathy is also progressive. One hind leg can be in pain, and after some time, another leg will experience the same pain. The dog will also experience difficulty in standing and walking until it cannot walk anymore. Congenital deafness: Genetics and inheritance of traits cause congenital deafness, but scientists correlated congenital deafness to coat color of a dog. Dogs with significantly whiter coat colors tend to have congenital deafness. However, not all white dogs are deaf, and not all deaf dogs are white. The lack of pigment in the ears of dogs allows the nerves to die at a very young age. While the symptoms of this condition are not physical, behavioral changes are observable. Dogs that suffer from this disease have difficulty in following commands and have special vocalizing episodes. Wobbler Syndrome: Also known as Cervical spondylomyelopathy CSM , this condition affects the cervical spine at the neck area of the dog. Often characterized by compression of the spinal cord, Wobbler Syndrome causes neck pain. The dog with this syndrome will experience a wobble walk due to the nerves affected. Fatal Heatstroke: Heat Strokes are common in any breed of dog. Any hot environment causes the occurrence of heat stroke in dogs since their sweat glands are only in their paws. Instead of sweating, dogs pant instead, but excessive panting can be a sign of overheating. A dog with thick fur like Great Pyrenees lab mix can be a victim of heat stroke. Owners should always prepare water for their Labrador Great Pyrenees, especially on hot days. Most of the listed health problems are genetics, so ensure that your breeders employ genetic testing on their parents. You should know the hip scores of the parents, and they must pass the clear eye test. Try to ask also about the ear and heart problems of the parents. Some other listed issues are related to the environment and personal care. Make sure that you treat your Great Pyrenees mixed with labrador well to avoid environmental health issues like heat stroke. Great Pyrenees crossed with Labrador Food Requirements Great Pyrenees Labrador is a large breed, so you need to maintain a well-balanced diet to prevent obesity. If you stick to the recommended servings, you will maintain a healthy weight in your dog. Since Labrador Great Pyrenees tend to experience bloating, prevent your dog from exercising after eating. Provide your dog smaller portions of food, and feed it at least three times a day to avoid overeating. You may even offer them the best dry dog food for small dogs, as it has fewer calories per serving. Young dogs need premium-quality kibble, so choose only the best puppy food brands for your cub. And if you have a senior doggy citizen at home, they deserve the royal treatment in the form of the best senior dry dog food. Feed your dogs with high-quality foods for proper growth and development. Avoid giving your pooch the worst dry dog food, ridden with fillers like carbs and grains, and make sure to provide meat-based dog food. The dog food also contains grain-free carbohydrates which will prevent your dog from overfilling its stomach. It also has essential vitamins that are good for coat and fur. It also provides glucosamine for joint health and omega fatty acid for fur and skin. Fromm Large Breed Puppy Gold Formula: The dog food is specifically for a large breed of dogs to keep their weight slowly growing. The product also has the right amount of proteins, fats, and proper calcium to phosphorus ratio for bone development. Labrador mixed with Great Pyrenees Exercise Requirements Labradors Great Pyrenees need a daily walk and play time to exercise its weight and as a form of exercise. However, Great Pyrenees Labradors get bored quickly if you will do the same routine and it causes stubbornness and tantrums. Your dog will have fun chasing it around, and it will not rip it apart easily. Kick Fetch Toy Ball: Another toy for fetch that includes a particular ball. The product also has unique grooves so your dog can bring it back. Classic Kong Dog Toy: Give your dog simple treats by placing it in the toy. Your dog needs to play with it to get its reward and will keep them occupied for a while. Great Pyrenees mixed with Labrador has those characteristics where they can be stubborn and not follow your command. Training your puppy can correct this behavior. Train your dog to socialize with different kinds and sizes of animals. Socializing your dog needs to start at an early age to avoid future aggression to smaller animals. Since the mix is a large dog, you need to take it for a walk at least an hour every day. However, you need some changes in your daily walk or training since your dog gets bored easily. Try playing games that will make your dog think. Every now and then, give your dog a reward or treat to keep him committed to the training. Labrador Great Pyrenees And Families With the loyal and loving nature of Labrador Great Pyrenees, it will be a great addition to a family, even with children. Although you need to train them in socializing, Great Pyrenees Labrador will surely protect and love your family. A great backyard with fences is a good investment if you want to take care of a Labrador Great Pyrenees Mix. Great Pyrenees Lab mix is a loving dog that wants care and welfare as much as they give. References: Ritt, Mg, and Tw Fossum. Cunliffe, Juliette. Great Pyrenees. Kennel Club Books, .Walton, Joel, and Eve Adamson. Labrador Retrievers for Dummies. Wiley Publishing, .The Great Pyrenees black Lab mix is part of this phenomenon. Labrador history Labradors started out as gundogs. They were trained to accompany their owner on game shoots, and retrieve fallen birds from land and water. They quickly gained legions of admirers, because they were quick learners, successful workers during the day, and also laid back company back at home in the evening. These qualities transferred well into service dog training as well. Great Pyrenees history Great Pyrenees are a centuries-old breed, developed to herd and protect sheep in the Pyrenees Mountains. Besides keeping the sheep in one place, they would also see off threats from poachers, wolves, and even bears. Their courage as guardians was so outstanding that King Louis XIV of France appointed them to protect his royal chateaux. Physically they could end up very much like a Lab, a Great Pyrenees, or somewhere in between. Even within a single litter, things like size, coat and temperament can vary a lot from puppy to puppy. Great Pyrenees are even larger, weighing 85 pounds and up! The overall shape of both dogs is pretty similar — broad and well-muscled, with kind eyes and ears that fold down the side of their head. Coat Labs and Great Pyrenees both have thick, waterproof double coats, ideal for working outdoors all year round, in harsh climates. Color A big question about a Great Pyrenees black Lab mix is, what color will they turn out? A black Lab is obviously black, and the Great Pyrenees is famous for being white! In fact, genetically Great Pyrenees are actually very, very pale red. And black Labradors can silently carry the genes for brown or red coats too. So the color of Pyrador puppies from a black Lab parent will depend upon whether that Lab only has genes for black pigment to pass on. If so, those genes have powerful genetic dominance, and the result will be black puppies. But if the Labrador is silently carrying genes for other colors too, their Pyrador puppies could end up white, or even a soft brown or red. Labs and Great Pyrenees originally served quite different purposes, and they have different temperaments which made them suited to those roles. Both breeds adore their families, and are noted for being patient and gentle with children. But whilst the Great Pyrenees tends to be disinterested in strangers, the Labrador sees everyone as a new friend. In their working role, Labradors also needed to be focused on their handler, and easily motivated to work as part of a dog-human team. All modern Labs are bred from ancestors who excelled in this. But Great Pyrenees traditionally worked alone — spending long days watching sheep, and making their own judgements about how to deal with threats. The result is that Labradors are much easier to train than Great Pyrenees! But it still depends upon having socialized them well at a young age. For Great Pyrenees, whose natural guarding instincts tell them to be wary of unfamiliar people and animals, socialization is even more important. During this window they will be very receptive to forming positive associations with things, if you introduce them gently and pair them with lots of treats. These positive associations will give them confidence, and minimize fearfulness, as they get older. All dogs need to be potty trained. If a Pyrador jumps up at an unprepared person, that person is likely to end up on the floor! A Pyrador that pulls ahead will be miserable to walk, and could easily damage the muscles in your shoulder too. These training guides elsewhere on the site can help you get started with all of these skills:. You can expect a Great Pyrenees and Lab mix to be friendly and energetic, but they may have strong hunting instincts. Are you ready to find out if the Pyrador is right for you? Hard Working Histories The mix has been bred as a family companion, but its parent breeds once had quite different purposes. Evidence shows that these dogs may have been bred as early as 3, B. Sometimes, they would have to stay high in the cold mountains for days on end, but luckily, they had their signature white coats to keep them warm! The Labrador Retriever comes from Newfoundland, Canada, where small dogs were trained to retrieve waterfowl. Their ancestors were brought across to the UK, where the Labrador breed was eventually standardised. Pyrador Appearance As we know, this mix can inherit any traits from either parent breed. So, puppies can look like Labs, Great Pyrenees, or anything inbetween. A popular variety is the Great Pyrenees black Lab mix, to achieve that black coat. But, a Great Pyrenees black Lab mix will still have unpredictable fur lengths. Depending on which parent a Lab and Pyrenees mix resembles, her coat may be solid yellow, black, or chocolate like a Labrador. Or her coat may be white or off-white with badger, gray, tan, or reddish brown markings like a Great Pyrenees. Grooming The Pyrenees sheds its entire undercoat seasonally, and the Lab also sheds pretty heavily seasonally. So, a half Lab half Great Pyrenees will definitely be a heavy shedder. The good news is, a Pyrador with a typical Great Pyrenees coat will not need much other grooming, as its coat will be tangle- and dirt-resistant. Are Pyradors Hypoallergenic? Unfortunately the Great Pyrenees and the Lab are both high shedding breeds. Your puppy will be a shedder, and not an allergy friendly pet. Pyrador Height and Weight With both parents being larger dogs, a Great Pyrenees and Lab mix definitely has some big shoes to fill. Generally speaking, females will be shorter and lighter than males. Labradors are categorized now as sporting dogs, whereas the Great Pyrenees is categorized in the working group. The mix can inherit the patience of the Pyrenees with just a little bit of playfulness from the Labrador. But, not all Pyradors have the temperament that we described above. Mixed breeds can be an equal mix of both parents, or they make take after one parent more than the other. So a Pyrador might be a mostly quiet and patient dog with a little bit of protective instinct, like his Great Pyrenees parent, or he might be a little more rambunctious with retrieving instincts, like his Labrador parent. Pyrador Personality A dog with strong Great Pyrenees genes may have a tendency to herd or chase after other dogs, cats, or other small animals. This could make them hard to keep in a multi-pet household. Plus, they may exhibit guarding tendencies and be extremely loyal to their owners and property. They may bark and growl at someone or something that they perceive to be a threat to their home. Pyradors with stronger Labrador tendencies may be highly energetic and prone to mischief. If a Pyrador acts more like a Lab, then they may have an issue with being left alone for extended periods of time. Labs do not take kindly to solitude and need a friend. They can also be quite destructive when they are upset or bored. Are They Good With Kids? Most Pyradors are great with children. Training Crate training is often useful for many owners of this mix. As Pyradors will often be very large, puppies must undergo obedience training from a very young age. They may not know their own strength when they are fully grown, and the friendliest pup can easily hurt someone without meaning to. Training will help you avoid this scenario. It can also help to reduce hunting instincts. Although, it may be best to avoid the risk, and choose a different breed if you have other small pets at home. Exercising Your Pyrador While both parent breeds were working dogs, Pyrenees mixes do not necessarily require a large yard to roam in. They are usually fine if they get at least one long walk in each day. His old hunting instincts may lead him to follow his nose or a tasty-looking bunny! If a Pyrador has English Lab in him, he may not inherit as strong of a hunting instinct. Pyrador Socialization As well as training from a young age, this mixed breed will need to be well socialized as early as possible. This means introducing your puppy to as many new environments, people, things, and animals as possible. Socialization can help to reduce fear based aggression in puppies, and will help your dog grow up to be happy and confident in all situations. Dogs with potential guarding tendencies should be socialized well to combat the risk of aggression as adults. Given the protective instincts of the Great Pyrenees parent, and the sheer size of this mix, socialization is important for all new owners. However, as long as breeders health test dogs they intend to breed from, and avoid inbreeding of any kind, their mixed breed puppies are just as healthy as purebred dogs. Purebred dogs are just as likely to have health problems as mutts. It all comes down to the following: the health of the breeding stock that start and maintain the line the conditions in which the parents and offspring are kept whether or not inbreeding is used to produce second and older generations. Continuing to breed dogs with known health issues always results in more dogs with health issues. Great Pyrenees and Labrador Health Pyradors may get any common canine ailments like hip dysplasia, eye diseases, allergies, and skin irritations. As a hybrid, Pyradors are subject to genetic conditions which are passed from their parents. Generally, Labrador Retrievers and Great Pyrenees are both prone to obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy PRA. We cannot emphasize enough that you should purchase a Pyrador from a breeder that utilizes genetic testing. Knowing the genes that breeding stock will pass to their offspring can prevent the passage of unwanted health conditions. But, a healthy Pyrador can be expected to live for years. For the right family, the Pyrador mix can be a great choice. Their exercise needs, temperament, and appearance will vary depending on the traits they inherit from each parent breed. If they take after the Lab, they will be friendly, energetic, and playful. Those that take after the Great Pyrenees will be loyal, have guarding tendencies, and will need less exercise. An enclosed area for a Pyrador to roam outside in is a good idea. So, train and socialize this mix well from the time they come home as a puppy. Although the Labrador is a fairly healthy dog, the Great Pyrenees may pass on one or more of the several health conditions common in their breed. So, choose the healthiest puppy possible. Or, consider rescuing an adult. All too often, adult dogs from all walks of life end up in shelters or animal rescues. This can be because their owners could not keep them for one reason or another. Due to the number of health issues this mix can inherit from the Great Pyrenees parent, adopting an older dog can be a good way to give an abandoned adult a second chance at life. Some owners may give up their dogs as soon as they encounter costly health bills. So, you may find these mixes in rescues looking for loving homes. Pyrador Breeders Before buying a Pyrador, we recommend that you carefully research Pyrador breeders so that you only purchase from a responsible breeder. Responsible breeders use genetic testing to prevent the passage of undesired traits or health conditions. They also keep their breeding stock and puppies at a good weight and in clean conditions—always.

Are you at home to devote time and training to their growth? What open space environment is your home? German Shepherds are on the no dog list in apartment buildings. Do you have a family with other pets? Also, a good breeder will ask you why do you want this particular breed? The breeder should be concerned that a German Shepherd puppy is being placed within the best living environment. Here are some insights to help you bring home the perfect German Shepherd puppy: Types of German Shepherd Puppies Pure-bred German Shepherd puppies are available in a variety of colors and built. The typical description is light brown and black. Black: Rare and beautiful. Their coloring is either all black or a deep dark bluish hair tint. Panda: their coloring consists of black, white, and tan. This is their natural coloring, not contributed to being a mixed breed. Sable: A unique coloring of this breed consists of light black, grey, tan, or gold. As puppies, the Sable German Shepherd puppies are fully tan. As they age, fur begins to develop stronger natural colors. White: No, this German Shepherd breed is not due to albino coloring. Though rate, white is their natural coloring. This German Shepherd puppy will be smaller in size, whether male or female. The reason for this question is that German Shepherds are intelligent and engaging breeds. They can be trained to thrive in any situation and climate. Their ability to cope in any situation is amazing. German Shepherds make great companions, protective family pets, and they are hard workers. Knowing how to choose a German Shepherd puppy, you are wondering what things you should look for. In other words, you are looking to see if it has a good temperament. German Shephard puppies demand and exhibit affection rather aggressively. Parental Traits If you are choosing a puppy from a kennel or a breeder, inquire about its parental background. You want to know if both parents were healthy and friendly. Carefully Examine the Puppy You want to look again for a puppy that is active and healthy. To choose the best German Shepherd puppy, you must become an amateur canine detective and examine the puppy closely. Here are things to look for: A German Shepherd puppy should not look thin. Instead, they should look full-bodied. Their eyes should appear bright and clear. Also, you must invade their personal space by examining their butt area to make sure it is clean. Their nose should be clean and not runny. Their teeth and gums look healthy. Their hair coat should not have bald spots and should not be matted. Your German Shepherd puppy should be free from odors. Pick a puppy that has a good gait, and their tail is up and actively wagging. All puppies need their mothers when they are very young. A German Shepherd puppy can be purchased when they are between the ages of eight and twelve weeks old. If you decide on an older puppy, just make sure that it has retained its socialization skills with both people and other animals. Make sure that the puppy has gotten all its vaccinations and deworming medication. However, within 48 hours of purchase, take your German Shepherd puppy to your vet for a complete exam. The Kennel or Breeder Environment Whether you are purchasing your German Shepherd puppy from a kennel or a private seller, look at the conditions of both. How does the kennel look to you? Both kennels and private breeder yards should be clean, and all puppies should have clean water. Please do not buy a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder where the conditions are unclean. How Instinctive Are You? Many potential dog-owners state that they knew that this was the one when they first saw their puppy. We all have instincts; therefore, you will know what the right buying environment is when you look at the puppies. If you get a feeling that something is not right, leave and find a different breeder. When you purchase your German Shepherd puppy and bring that bundle of joy home, you want to feel confident that you have made the best decision. After all, the relationship with your German Shepherd puppy can last easily for up to thirteen years. Male vs. Female German Shepherd There are many people who only choose a German Shepherd puppy because of their gender or appearance. What is most important in purchasing any puppy is their physical and mental stability. Gender and looks should never be a deciding factor when choosing a dog that will live in your family for the next 12 years or more. Please perform thorough breeder research so that you can choose the right German Shepherd puppy that will fit into your living lifestyle for years to come. Do you want to select a female puppy for future breeding? If not, both your male and female German Shepherd puppy should be spayed and neutered. Female German Shepherds are found to have a sweeter temperament than their male counterparts. Male German Shepherds are more territorial. They also are a little more stubborn and proud. Male German Shepherds are generally larger than their female counterparts. The male can grow to a height range of up to 26 inches. Meanwhile, the female can grow to a height of up to 24 inches tall. Their weight will range from a full-bodied 75 to 95 pounds. When you are trying to decide whether to purchase a male vs. They make excellent watchdogs. Socialize Therefore, if you are going to be around other individuals each day, your German Shepherd puppy must be trained to accept people outside their family unit. Introduce your German Shepherd puppy to strangers so that they will feel comfortable in front of people. By introducing them to strangers, will help them stay calm. They do not like to be left alone for too long. Because they were originally bred for herding, German Shepherds have high energy and thus require physical and mental stimulation. Make sure you have the time and patience to own a German Shepherd puppy. In patiently taking time with their active habits, it will work out to your benefit. They become loyal and loving breeds, especially when raised in a family setting. Remember the TV show Dog Whisperer? The host always referred to a dog requiring a pack leader. German Shepherds must learn that you are the pack leader. If not, they will take the dominant lead, and this is not good. They must be trained and actively exercised to be happy. German Shepherds love to explore and investigate everything. If you live in an area where there are porcupines, lookout. Young German Shepherd puppies will probably come home with quills all over their body. Well, you would be wrong. A German Shepherd puppy will want to correct this wrong and approach another porcupine! Grooming a German Shepherd puppy is simple and easy. Yes, they do shed year-round, so brush them occasionally. But mostly keep their nails trimmed, their teeth and ears cleaned. Dog breeders believe that to help your new German Shepherd puppy adjust from a litter to your new home, they should be crate trained. They need to feel safe and comfortable. Crate training is a learning experience for a German Shepherd puppy, but it eventually helps them get used to a family who perhaps must go off to work every day. Further Reading. Imagine you could come home to a lovable, dedicated, companion for life! If you knew what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy, you could find your next best friend. Before you buy your new best friend, read this information so you know what to look for in buying a healthy, quality German Shepherd puppy. I group them into major categories. Will you show him in conformation? Do you want to work with him in Schutzhund or herding? Or do you want a confident and alert companion? Know exactly what you want from your puppy. These dogs are the least costly since they have a trait that prevents them from winning in conformation competitions. These flaws rarely matter to most pet owners. And many minor faults like flat withers or slightly smaller offset ears will probably go unnoticed by most owners. The vast majority of GSDs are family pets. These dogs make great pets as long as they have sound temperaments! They breed some dogs for certain traits that are highly desirable but considered a fault. For example, long-coat or plush-coat GSDs. Show-quality dogs have good temperament and health. You usually buy them for their breed standard qualities that make them able to compete in confirmation or show events. A show-quality dog may cost significantly more if they have the traits desirable to win at a show. This group comes from Championship show lines with a long history of winning. If you plan on showing your Shepherd this is the quality you want. Beware of any breeder who claims they only raise competition-quality dogs. Even the best breeders produce many pet-quality dogs and if a breeder says they only breed perfect dogs, this is a red flag to not buy from them. The GSD is a herding breed, and the working-quality dogs excel at working trials such as scent competitions and Schutzhund. Other work includes climbing and jumping competitions or searching and tracking. They need mental stimulation to keep them occupied and take a lot of time to handle properly. These dogs are better with experienced handlers since you use them for high drive working and competition. They require hours and years of training and preparation for you to have total control during competition. We base this decision on preference. With the correct upbringing and training, both sexes are loyal companions and good with children. They may grow into more dominant dogs, so a confident handler is more desirable. Males may hike their back legs to mark their territory. This can occur on any object — chairs, walls, couches or even your leg. I suggest an extra bout of socialization during this stage, especially with other well-behaved dogs. So they may be better for the first-time owner. Unspayed females come into season every 6 months, so they must receive monitoring and watch to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Their season time can vary from as little as every 4 months to every 9 months. They can attract males to your property and on walks that will harass them if not spayed. Certain breeders and organizations will deal only in a certain coat length and color. The standard coat length is a short coat with double layers. Guard hairs on the top cover a softer underlayer of hair that provides warmth and protection. But there are many coat lengths available depending on your liking. Look online at the different GSD coat lengths to get an idea of what type of fur you want your dog to have. The longer the fur the more grooming involved. The color you choose is a matter of individual taste. Keep in mind the color of many Shepherds alters from their puppyhood to around 2 years of age. Your dog may become lighter or darker. Perhaps they will lose some of their markings as the color fades into the adult pattern. The best way to know what color and patterns your dog grows into is to see the parents of the litter. If the father is unavailable, then ask for photos. Why should you care where your dog comes from if you only want him as a pet companion? You want to get a dog that will live a long and healthy life from a source that has quality puppies. These tips will help you make the best decision on what type of pup fits in your life. Newspaper and Internet Classified Ads Newspaper and internet ads are in abundance. Many backyard breeders hide behind ads online or in local papers. But some breeders who use newspapers and classified ads are reputable and knowledgeable. The problem is you need to visit them to find out, and this can take time to sift through them all. Try the following more reputable suggestions to save yourself time. Dog Care Professionals Ask dog professionals for recommendations. Check with your local veterinarian, groomer, and boarding kennel personnel if they know reputable breeders in town. These professionals are good sources of quality leads. Use the same caution that you will for a classified ad. Verify their suggestions. Many of these organizations regularly receive puppies they need to re-home. While you might not know the full pedigree of the dog, purebred GSDs find themselves in shelters and rescues from no fault of their own. These organizations are a good resource for your first pup. Before adopting, find out as much information as you can. Was the puppy exposed to children? Did he live with other dogs or cats? A well-organized shelter or rescue helps you choose a German Shepherd match for your lifestyle. Start with looking online for GSD rescues and local shelters. Dog Clubs Dog clubs are local and national. These groups put you into contact with registered breeders through their own programs. They can give you the name of the GSD club contact closest to you for breed contacts. Dog clubs also have dog shows open to the public. This is a good time to watch the breed in action and to ask around for quality breeders. While using a dog club to connect you with a reputable breeder is not the only choice, it is one of the more reliable. If you are using a breeder to choose your German Shepherd puppy, this section will help you know the good from the bad. Use these tips to stay safe. Are selling overpriced or under-priced dogs. Lie to you and say you can make money off your new puppy by breeding them, despite them having flaws. Tells you that the GSD is a dog for everyone, with no disadvantages. Breeds multiple types of dogs and claims to be an expert on them all. If a breeder lets their mothers get pregnant more than once a year, this affects the quality of the puppies, so ask how many litters the mother has. These breeders selling unhealthy puppies also will refuse to take bag their dogs if you need to return them for any reason and have no contracts. They have healthy puppies and will answer your questions and have you make multiple visits. Openly show you where the mother and pups spend their time, including their garden or yard. Tells you the up and downs of owning the breed. Have all pedigree and vet paperwork on hand for your review. Specializes in breeding only GSDs source. They openly share this information with you. They have screened their dogs for health issues and can confirm this with documentation which they proudly give you a copy. Healthy mothers are given rest from breeding, and a reputable breeder gives their mothers time off from reproduction. Ask if your breeder if they are willing to take back their dogs if you cannot keep them, as this is standard for a quality breeder with a good reputation. Make sure your breeder has a written contract with detailed information and health guarantees. These are expected for safe breeding practices. How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy Following this guide gives you the best chance of buying a German Shepherd puppy that suits your lifestyle. Know what you want from your GSD and where to find quality dogs. Learn what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy to stay safe from a sick pup and a bad breeder. German Shepherds have their own unique set of challenges. They are a large, active, and intelligent breed that requires an understanding owner who is willing to train their GSD using positive techniques. Devote yourself to their overall health to see the best results and help give you and your dog a lifetime of happiness. Remember, your pup will need mental stimulation to keep their brain active , a gentle exercise program , and need daily love and affection. Buying a German Shepherd puppy is a choice for your whole life that will bring you many years of joy and excitement! Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Of course, you have already read a lot of books with advice on how to choose the right puppy of a German Shepherd, east European, as well as a Newfoundland, Rottweiler, Spaniel, or Spitz puppy. You understand what is the fundamental difference between these breeds and why a Retriever puppy will never become a VIP bodyguard, and a black terrier will hardly ever pass for a draft husky. Why Opting For a German Shepherd Puppy Is a Good Choice The German Shepherd is prone to learning from a very young to deep old age, while many other breeds cannot boast of this, even if their appearance is more perfect than that of a German Shepherd. The most well-known characteristics that a German Shepherd owns are: pronounced protective and guarding instinct; the ability to make independent decisions, and active actions, and at the same time be completely submissive to the owner; sociability, playfulness, and curiosity; lack of aggression signs towards others and deep affection for the owner; a willingness to happily take on tasks, learn, and remain completely fearless when faced with unfamiliar surroundings or unforeseen difficulties; In addition, the Shepherd dog is calmly confident and features strong nerves, combativeness, and assertiveness which are the main qualities of a good service dog. Perhaps, due to this set of breed characteristics, few larger and more ferocious breeds can compete with a GS, both for guarding the house and as a personal protector. It is not recommended to take puppies under 4 weeks old from their mother. This applies not only to GSs but other breeds. At the age of one month, the baby has already been given all the necessary vaccinations. However, only a person who can devote a lot of time to raising a puppy can afford to take a Shepherd at such a young age. In addition to 6 meals a day, and socialization, the new owner will need to complete 1, different tasks, which require, above all, a lot of time. If there is no time, it is worth finding a puppy aged 4 to 6 months. And it is advisable to take such a teenager from a nursery that focuses on breeding German Shepherds and not all the breeds at once. It happens that a puppy stays in the nursery because the money deposit was given for it but, for some reason, people could not pick up the reserved puppy. If the grown-up German Shepherd puppy constantly lived in an aviary and was deprived of close contact with people and the outside world, owners who have not previously dealt with this breed should not choose such a youngster. These young dogs are for experienced cinologysts. Lack of socialization can be corrected but it cannot be fully eliminated. Testing for the Puppy and Its Future Owner You may already know how to choose a purebred German Shepherd by external signs under the age of 3 months. Simple tests will help you choose a puppy with the desired character. Visit the breeder at a predetermined time when the puppies do not sleep or, conversely, are not hungry. You are taking a future friend for life, and enthusiastic emotions with such a choice are inappropriate. When buying a new friend, inspect the litter meticulously. Pay attention to the following: eyes do not water; traces of diarrhea under the tails are not observed; wet noses are without purulent crusts; legs are straight and strong; fur is clean, reminding of the plush; on the skin under the coat, there are no signs of peeling and scabs; all puppies are active and well-fed; the body is elastic and strong to the touch; the puppy has a pleasant dog smell; the mother is not exhausted; bowls and bedding are clean; there is enough heat and light. Of course, the owner of the dog mother has already taken her to the next room. Those who paid attention to the unusual sound are yours. Throw carefully, of course a tennis ball at the puppies. Those who were not afraid and did not try to escape are yours. Those who, having scouted the situation, did not begin to whine , pressing themselves onto the floor, but hurried towards the bedding are yours. Pay attention to those who have shown interest in a new object. The best are those who took and dragged it. Keys and money are the dirtiest household items. This testing method was used 20 years ago. Today, it is dangerous for the health of puppies! Invite those who dragged the rubber duck to pull a piece of fabric. If the baby dog willingly starts the fight, not letting the cloth go when you pull it towards you, they are good boys or girls. Turn the puppy you like on its back and hold it with an open palm for a few seconds. A clear alpha leader is easy to identify by its non-calming behavior for seconds, and even trying to bite you in this position. It may not be your choice! You will get too many problems associated with the puppy, or it will never be possible to completely subdue it. The puppy that squealed, pulled back its paw, and did not lose its interest in you is yours. The one who barks trying to drive brothers and sisters away from the bowl is not for you. The one who gives up its place at the feeder is also not yours. Yours is the one who, regardless of the obstacles, has taken its place and calmly devours food, without moving from its point, snapping, and running around the bowl. Now, you have at best 2 or 3 puppies left in front of you. You need to select the fat-footed one who will try to get out through the opening without panic and squealing. The tests are simple, but they will allow you to select a good puppy and raise a real working German Shepherd from it without unnecessary costs and nerves. Talk to the breeder. Such puppies are sold at a more reasonable price, but the puppy card for them is mandatory to be filled out as well. If you are given puppies for free, in the absence of their mother, there is a reason to seriously consider whether it is a Shepherd dog at all, even if their mother has pedigree documents. This is not a dog of one owner! The versatility and flexibility of this breed are proven by the fact that GSs accept a new family and a new environment without any problems. The main thing for it is to have its own business — to serve a human! Of course, parting with the former owner seriously affects the condition of the dog, but it will not have a destructive effect on its psyche. And the sooner you engage the German Shepherd in work, the more chances you will have to become a new God for it. If the German Shepherd was properly brought up and grew up surrounded by people, it has working characteristics in good conditions, and the reputation of its previous owner is beyond all questions, such a dog will be quite useful to your family. Finding out the previous story and background of an adult GS why it is refused, what the complaints about its behavior are, and other prompting questions is a must! The reason may be the saddest and most trivial — the previous owner died, and relatives are not able to either support or care for the dog. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. This guide will help you learn how to select the best German Shepherd puppy to add to your family. Is a German Shepherd right for me? This is the first question you should ask yourself before you even consider bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy. You need to evaluate your personal and family lifestyle by asking yourself the following questions: Where do you live? German Shepherds are often on the restricted breed list for apartments. Do you spend much of your time at home, or do you have an active work and social life? Are you willing to spend more time at home on the weekends and evenings during puppyhood, even if it means missing social events? Do you love traveling a lot? If so, will you take your puppy with you? If not, do you have someone or someplace you trust to watch your dog when you travel? Is your whole family excited about the idea of a new German Shepherd puppy? Are you already active or willing to become more active? Do you have time in your schedule to devote to training? Knowing the answers to those questions will help get you a couple of steps closer to deciding whether or not a German Shepherd is the right choice for you. Important things to know about German Shepherds: German Shepherd dogs are sometimes affectionately known as German shedders. German Shepherds shed all year long , however, they blow their coats twice a year during which time they will shed exponentially more. When considering getting this breed, you should be comfortable having a dog that sheds. Trimming their nails , cleaning their ears, brushing their teeth, and brushing their coat regularly is sufficient. Of course, during the shedding seasons more frequent brushing will be needed. German Shepherds were originally developed for herding sheep. Accordingly, they have the desire to work and respond best to proper training from a young age, and an active lifestyle. German Shepherds are known to be clingy, so be prepared to have a shadow following you around the house and maybe even in the restroom. German Shepherds are good with kids and are great family dogs. However, they need proper socialization and training at a young age so they can learn how to behave around both kids and adults. German Shepherds require a lot of mental stimulation and have high energy levels, especially as a puppy. As much as I love Allie, she was more than a handful as a puppy. I have seen instances where people underestimate the time, energy, and training a German Shepherd puppy requires and get overwhelmed after bringing their puppy home. These people end up giving up their puppies. It breaks my heart to know these awesome dogs are given up because of a lack of knowledge when selecting a breed of dog. Although they are a handful if you are willing to put in the effort they are in my opinion one of the best breeds of dog to own. German Shepherds are too smart for their own good. They learn things scary fast and sometimes get themselves into trouble because of how smart they are. They learn your routine and habits, and they also learn when and how they can get away with mischief. German Shepherds are incredibly loyal and become very connected to their owners and family. German Shepherds are typically loving and affectionate. From the second I met Allie she greeted me with a wet tongue to the face. That is still her favorite greeting she will kiss anyone that will allow her to get close enough. German Shepherds need training. They need to know that you are the leader and in charge. If not, they will quickly take over the role of being in charge and that is where problems arise. A bored, untrained, not active German Shepherd can become one of the stories you sometimes hear on the news about a GSD being aggressive. In most of those cases, the problem was with the owners and not the dog breed as a whole. Adoption or Breeder? First, you need to decide if you are going to adopt a German Shepherd puppy or buy one from a breeder. Here are some of the benefits of adopting: Rescue puppies are often already sociable, at least partially trained, and loving dogs. Therefore, you will save a lot of time on house training your new puppy. Older puppies or dogs are likely to be calmer than a younger puppy. You are saving the life of a dog that might not have otherwise found a home. The cost of adopting is typically much cheaper than buying a puppy from a breeder. If you decide to get a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder, here are a few things that can help you identify a good, ethical German Shepherd breeder: Ethical breeders care about the health and wellbeing of the puppy and are not just in the business for money. Ethical breeders always make sure that only healthy dogs breed together and follow a strict breeding program where they ensure that breeding and puppy spaces are clean. They should also have papers showing the age of the parent and the family tree of the puppy. Ethical breeders will happily show you around their entire setup; they should have nothing to hide. Ethical breeders will happily answer as many questions as you have to ask. You want to select one that will be compatible with you and your family. Consider the following when picking a puppy from the litter: Choose a puppy that is sociable around you and other puppies. Pick a puppy that walks confidently with its head high and tail up and wagging. Choose a puppy that has clear eyes, ears , and teeth, walks evenly, and appears clean. Basically, choose a puppy that looks healthy. Look at the personalities of the puppies. Choose a welcoming puppy that wants to greet you as opposed to one that retreats or appears shy. Ask to interact with each puppy one by one after seeing them with their littermates. That way you can get a better sense of how the puppy responds to you without distractions. If possible, visit the litter at least three times before making a final decision, this will allow you to determine the personalities of each of those little fluff balls, and see which would best fit into your family. How old should a German Shepherd puppy be when you take it home? Any puppy should be at least 8 weeks old before being separated from their mother. By this timeline, their sensory organs will have also developed fully which will help you to spot any deformities or medical issues. Be wary of any breeder that will allow you to take your puppy home before 8 weeks old. How do you puppy proof for German Shepherds? German Shepherds are naturally active and tend to explore the world with their mouths, especially during their adolescent period. So, before you can bring your new puppy home, there are a few things you can do to puppy-proof your house: Get rid of any poisonous plants or put them out of reach of your new puppy. Cover electrical cords with cable wraps or PVC pipes. Buy a new laundry basket that has a lid, no holes, and is tall. Make sure both your kitchen and bathroom trash cans have lids. Your new puppy will dig around for anything to bite, like chicken bones, diapers, used hygienic products, or even a disposable razor. If possible, you should buy new trash cans that only open when a button is pressed. Store all the chemicals in secured cabinets or even better on high shelves. German Shepherd puppies have strong teeth and can open plastic containers by biting through even the toughest of plastic! Put away any small items or toys that are small enough for your puppy to swallow. Think of small kid toys like Legos or dollhouse furniture that could be dangerous for a curious puppy. Find a safe spot for your shoes. Whether in a closed closet or in the laundry room behind a closed door. I remember losing a pair of brand-new shoes because I forgot to put them away and Allie thought chewing them was a fun idea. Bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy The period of bringing a new German Shepherd puppy home and introducing them to your home and family takes time and above all, patience. If possible, plan to take off work for at least a few days after bringing your puppy home. I picked up Allie on a Saturday, and then took most of the following week off to spend time getting her adjusted to her new home. Remember, your new puppy has been taken from the only family it knew, and you are now their new family. That first week home was a good week of bonding with Allie. It helped her feel comfortable with her new life and allowed me to really get to know my new beautiful energy filled puppy. The best tip for a smooth transition when bringing your German Shepherd puppy home is to begin crate training and potty training as soon as possible. As a breed prone to separation anxiety , you want to give your GSD a zone to feel safe, comfortable, and content to be on their own. While the initial steps of crate training can be time-consuming, it can make the difference between a dog that is a joy to own, and one that can never be left on their own — so, be the dog parent your pooch deserves and put the time in! New German Shepherd puppy checklist and things to buy It is important that your new puppy feels welcomed into their new home. Some items are ok to be left with your puppy, and other items are more dangerous or will be destroyed. This checklist will help you to know what to buy when getting a puppy. New German Shepherd Puppy Checklist. Final thoughts Where do I start? The first thing that you have to do before you can pick out the best puppy, is to pick out the best breeder. This may come easily, as you may already have a breeder in mind that you trust and who has a good reputation. But chances are that you will have to do your research. And there is also a good chance that you may need to travel some distance to the right breeder. Even if the breeder is several states away, consider making the trip. Getting a new GSD puppy is a significant life commitment. The effort and time that you invest now in going about this properly will pay off for years to come. Here are some important things to look for in a breeder once you locate one that you are interested in pursuing. Call the breeder and have a conversation The first thing to do is call the breeder and have a conversation. A quality German Shepherd breeder will actually require this. They will not permit someone to just show up and purchase one of their dogs and take it home. They will ask you questions such as: Why do you want a GSD puppy? This will aid them in helping you choose. Where do you live, in an apartment or in a home? They will want to ensure that the puppy will not be in a cramped space. Do you have a yard, and is it fenced-in? They will want to make sure that the puppy will have adequate room to exercise as it grows. Do you have children in your home? They will want to make sure that you understand the importance of socialization and training to keep your family safe. Do you have other pets in your home? They will want to make sure that you know how to properly introduce the puppy to other animals, and whether any other pets you have may actually be a danger to the puppy. What type of work do you do, does it require you to be away from home for long periods of time? Because GSDs do not do well alone, they will want to make sure that you have adequate time to devote to your dog. Are you financially prepared to take on a GSD? While this may be a bit of a personal question, it is important to know that you are financially able to care for a GSD. They are expensive to care for, and it is fair for a breeder to ask this question. If a breeder does not ask you some form of these questions, then perhaps think twice. It may be an indication that they are more interested in profit than raising a quality puppy that they care will go to a quality home. Questions for you to ask the breeder: How many different types of dogs do you raise? Can you provide me with a pedigree of all of your puppies? A pedigree is essentially a family tree for your puppy. A good breeder should have a detailed pedigree for any dog they sell. Beware of any breeder that wants to charge for this or says that they will provide it at a later date. Do you have references? They should provide you with several without thinking twice. All reputable breeders will offer this guarantee in the form of a written contract. Do you breed your females more than once a year? Female GSDs should not be bred more than one time per year. This allows for adequate recovery time and maintains good health. Can you provide me with a detailed medical history for your puppies? Health screenings are essential for puppies, and a reputable breeder should be able to provide proof of these. Can you explain any potential health issues for GSD which may come up later in life? A knowledgable breeder should be able to clearly explain conditions like hip dysplasia and other health issues more common in GSDs than other dogs. If the answer to any of these questions comes up as unsatisfactory, move on. It is simply not worth the risk of pursuing the breeder any further. Unfortunately, there are far too many unethical breeders who take a lot of shortcuts which results in dogs prone to both health and behavioral issues. Why is this? You should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. More than half of the states in the U. And out of those states, only 3 permit a puppy to be offered for sale under the age of 8 weeks. The reason for these laws is primarily so that puppies are properly weaned from their mothers and able to eat on their own. In addition to weaning, puppies need to be initially socialized by their mothers as well as their siblings. So a puppy will be taught that these things are bad during these 8 weeks. If you remove a puppy from the litter too early, they may not learn these lessons and develop behavioral problems as they get older. Much like a spoiled child that never learns, often times the source of an ill-behaved puppy can be traced to a lack of discipline at a young age. So to ensure that you have a healthy puppy, that is also sold in accordance with state laws and regulations, understand that it must be 8 weeks old see link above for exceptions — regardless of state law exceptions, waiting 8 weeks is good practice. Decide whether you want to male or female You may have a personal preference for either a female or a male German Shepherd puppy. It is important however to not necessarily just go with your gut on this one. Take a moment and understand some general differences between the two genders. I will explore this issue more in-depth in another post, but here are some important general points to consider. Territorial: Males are naturally more territorial than females. This may give them more of a tendency to wander off in an effort to broaden their territory. Very possessive: Male GSDs are generally more possessive than females. They may be possessive over food and bones, toys, and you! Dominance: Male German Shepherds tend to be more dominant than females. This may result in more of a proclivity towards aggressive bullying behaviors to make sure that it is understood that they are the boss. Dominance requires training to keep it in check. Singular bonding: Male GSDs tend to bond more closely with one person rather than a group of people like a family. Territorial: Females are therefore more welcoming and less territorial than males. They are also less likely to wander off as they have no desire to expand their territory. Dominance: Females display less dominant behaviors than males. Non-singular bonding: Females are more likely to bond with a number of people in a family rather than an individual person. So, how do I choose between the two? This question comes down to the purpose for which you want a German Shepherd. If you are looking for a dog to have trained in protection and are looking primarily for a four-legged security system for your home, then a male is a good choice. However, if your primary interest is to just have a family pet that socializes well with others, then a female is probably right for you. Testing the puppy There is no better way to determine whether or not a specific puppy is the right one for you than to actually get hands-on and doing some investigating. However, even before you begin any interactions with a puppy, make sure that you are testing the correct one. Never try and force any interaction, begin with puppies that are naturally drawn to you. Just like with people, you cannot force a match and expect fruitful results. So be patient and make sure at very least that the puppy is not aversive toward you before you being. The tests: Clap your hands: Does it run away or does it come? A more timid dog may, however, be apprehensive to approach. Make eye contact: When the puppy is looked at, does it stare back at you? If the puppy looks directly at you, it is showing confidence. Vocally call the puppy over to you: Does it come to you right away? If it does how not, however, this could show a behavioral issue or hearing problem, or it could be an indication of another illness as well. Pet the puppy: How does it respond to your touch? However, if it meets your touches with biting or growling, then this is likely an indication of an uneven or bad temperament. It will not just grow out of this, it will have to be trained out of it. Bring a ball with you to test with the puppy: Roll the ball and see what the puppy does. Does it follow it and then bring it to you? Or does it take it away for itself. A more dominant puppy will just take the ball and keep it for itself, reluctant to give it back to you. On the other hand, a more independent puppy may show no interest at all. And one that is submissive may actually be frightened. If you are looking for a very sociable puppy, look for the one that brings the ball right back to you to play some more. The puppy that brings it right back is also an ideal candidate for training in retrieving and other exercises. An even-tempered puppy will show interest in and play with the toy, but it will also allow you to participate and take the toy back without showing you any aggression. Roll the puppy over: Once the puppy comes over to you, gently roll it onto its back and hold it in place. Do not be forceful but be firm. See how the puppy reacts. Is it resisting, or is it just relaxing? A puppy with a more dominant personality will take the path of most resistance, and it may growl or attempt to bite at you. And the even-tempered puppy is the one that may resist for a short time but then submit to what you are doing. Pick up the puppy: Physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it underneath its chest with an open hand. Lift it up high, even above the height of your head and hold it there. What does the puppy do? Does it struggle, or does it stay relaxed? A puppy that struggles may be fearful or dominant. On the other hand, a puppy that stays absolutely relaxed is displaying confidence in itself and trust in you. Hold on to a paw and press it gently: This is somewhat similar to holding it on its back. If there is a response to be had, it will happen immediately. Resistance or pulling the paw away may show dominance and temperament towards aggression. The even-tempered puppy will be you curious as to what you are doing. It may investigate a little and might even lick you. Make an unexpected noise: Whether it is banging a pot and pan together or just yelling, create an unexpected noise. See what the puppy does, does it show fear, interest, or aggression? A fearful puppy may run away or even whimper. While an aggressive-tempered puppy may actually growl and try to bite you. An even-tempered puppy will simply look surprised, and may even want to investigate a little bit further. Meet the parents A lot of breeders will have both the father sire and the mother bitch of the puppies on site. However, some of them will only have the mother because sometimes the father is on loan as a stud from a different breeder. But the mother for sure should be on site, and you should get an idea of what she is like. In the case of my last German Shepherd, I was able to meet both parents. His mother was very kind and sociable and eager to be petted. While on the other hand, his father was clearly dominant, and not a dog to be messed with. Because of my prior experience and knowledge, my GSD turned out exactly as I thought he would — fairly sociable yet wildly protective of me. This was all right because I knew what to expect and I was able to train my dog properly to take the edge off of some of his more dominance behaviors. However, my choice was an informed decision based on years of experience. If you are new to owning a German Shepherd, this may not be an ideal combination. I would recommend for a new German Shepherd owner to consider making sure that both parents are more docile, and possibly even lean towards acquiring a female for your first German Shepherd. Visit the puppy on more than one occasion Just like people, puppies have their on days and their off days. You will not be able to get a very accurate picture of how your puppy will be on one short visit. In fact, with my last dog, I visited him at least 4 times and stayed for at least 30 minutes with him each time prior to taking him home. A good breeder will have no issue with you doing this, and in fact, will prefer it. They want their dogs to be well-matched with their new owners, so this is common practice. The puppy should become accustomed to the people it will soon be spending its entire life with. So the more familiarity that you build now in this phase, the easier that puppy will transition to home life with you and your family. All of these steps are positive reinforcement for your new puppy and will build familiarity and a bond even before you arrive home. Also, bring a small blanket or clothing item and ask the breeder to leave it with the puppy. This will allow your puppy to become familiar with the scent of you and your home. Making for a better transition. So by default, this knowledge enables the breeder to be very good at placing the proper puppies with the proper personalities. Remember to stay focused and not lose sight of your primary objective, which is to select the right puppy for you and your family. If you take the time and care to do your research and ask the right questions, you will come together with the right puppy for you. But remember, this is just the beginning of a major life commitment. So take this step of choosing the right GSD puppy seriously, and you will have laid the foundation for a loving and rewarding relationship for years to come. One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a German Shepherd puppy is what their personality and temperament are like. German Shepherds are just like people. They each have their own personalities, and some are able to get along with other dogs better than others. In fact, how your German Shepherd puppy interacts with other dogs and people will mostly come down to their individual personality. This will mean that your German Shepherd puppy will need less training, and a lot of your interactions with one another will come more naturally. The best puppy for your home may not be the biggest, prettiest dog in the litter! How to get started Before you can worry about choosing the best German Shepherd puppy for your home, you will need to find a breeder. You will need to opt for a German Shepherd breeder who has a good reputation. So you will need to do your research to find the right breeder for your needs. You may even need to travel a fair way to find the perfect breeder. Even if your German Shepherd breeder is located several states away, it will be worth the trip. If you put in the right amount of time and effort now, it should pay dividends throughout the next few years. Here are a few handy tips to help you find the right breeder to buy a German Shepherd puppy from. Talk to your German Shepherd breeder One of the first things you should do is to give the German Shepherd breeder a call. You may be surprised to learn that quality breeders will actually require this to ensure that the puppy is going to a good home. They may not be as interested in the health of the puppy and their new home as they should be, and are more concerned about making a profit from their dogs. The breeder will want to ensure that you have the right space to accommodate your German Shepherd puppy. Have you got any kids? Training your new puppy and giving them the right amount of socialization will be essential for keeping your family safe. Do you have a fenced outdoor space? Your puppy will need to have a good amount of room so they can run around and play. They will need regular exercise to stay fit and healthy. Why do you want a German Shepherd? The breeder will want to know what purpose you want a German Shepherd puppy for. It could be as a pet, for added protection, or to show competitively. Do you have any other pets? This will be an important factor as you will need to know how to introduce your new puppy to other animals. It will also be crucial to know if you have any other pets which could pose a danger to the puppy. What do you do for a living? If you have to work away for long periods of time so that your puppy is left alone for large portions of the day, the breeder will want to know this. Can you afford the financial responsibility of this puppy? Dogs are a financial commitment. This may seem like too much of a personal question, however, it will be important to establish that you can properly care for your new dog. Questions you can ask your breeder There are far too many unethical breeders around. Some irresponsible breeders will take shortcuts when it comes to breeding, which will leave you with dogs who have behavioral and health issues. Do you raise other breeds of dog? This can show you whether they have been bred from healthy dogs. Have you got any references? A good quality breeder should be able to give you these easily enough. Have you got a pedigree for the puppies? This is essentially a family tree of the puppies. A good quality breeder should be able to produce the proper lineage of your new puppy when asked. If the breeder attempts to charge you for this, or says they will give it to you another time, be very wary. Every breeder worth their salt will give you this guarantee as a written contract. How often do you breed your females in a single year? This will allow them to properly recover from giving birth, and help to maintain great health. Have you got a detailed medical history for the puppies? A reputable breeder should be able to give you proof of any health screenings that their puppies have had. This is essential for healthy dogs. Could you explain to me if German Shepherds have any health issues they may suffer from as adults? Puppies should never be taken home if they are less than 8 weeks old. In fact, more than half of the states in America have laws to prevent this from happening. There are several laws which dictate how old a puppy needs to be before it can be adopted or sold. There are only 3 which actually allow puppies to be sold under 8 weeks old: D. These laws are in place for a reason. This is to ensure that all puppies have been properly weaned from their mothers and that they are able to eat without help. Puppies will also need to have been properly socialized before they can leave their mothers. Their mothers and siblings can help to socialize the puppy properly. Most of the behavioral problems in adult dogs can be traced back to this lack of discipline and not having been socialized properly. To make sure that you have a healthy puppy, you will need to choose a puppy that is being sold in accordance with the laws of their state. This will mean buying a puppy that is at least 8 weeks old, if not older. Even if you happen to find a puppy in D. Male or female puppy Perhaps you already have a preference for the gender of your puppy. You will need to understand that the two genders actually have distinct differences. Here are a few things for you to consider to help you make a fully informed choice. Female German Shepherds 1. Physical appearance Typically, female German Shepherds will be much smaller than males. They will also have a less muscular stature. Dominance A female dog will display less behavioral dominance than a male dog will. Family bonding Female German Shepherds are more likely to bond with the whole family rather than a single individual. Territorial A female German Shepherd will be much less territorial than a male dog will be. Male German Shepherds Male dogs will tend to be much larger than females. They are also more muscular. Dominance Males will display a lot more dominance than females. Single person bonding A male German Shepherd is more likely to bond very closely with a single person instead of a whole family. Territorial A male German Shepherd is more likely to be territorial. This means they could be more likely to wander off in an attempt to expand their home turf. Possessive These males tend to be on the more possessive side than their female counterparts. This could be over their food, their favorite toys, or even you. It will be important to give them correct training to teach them not to be aggressive towards you. They should be able to socialize better with others, too. But the best way to find out if your prospective puppy will be the right fit for your home is to do some proactive investigating. This can also be a great indicator of their future behavior, too. You should never force the interaction. If the puppy is reluctant to come near you and interact with you, then you will be better off choosing a different pup. Tests for your German shepherd puppy 1. Eye contact When you look directly at your puppy, does it look back at you? If your puppy stares back at you, this is showing confidence. If your puppy avoids eye contact then it may be anxious, scared, or have a vision issue. Clapping your hands This can indicate how social your puppy is. If it comes towards you and tries to interact with you, this is a great sign. This shows that the dog is eager to socialize with people. Call out to the puppy Do they come towards you at the sound of your voice? This is a fantastic sign. Pet the dog It will be important to note how the puppy interacts with your physical touch. If the puppy is affectionate and loving, this will be another great sign. If they bite or growl at you, this will likely be an indication of a bad temperament. The dog will have to be trained out of this. Play ball Bring a ball with you when you meet your puppy. Roll this towards the dog and see how the puppy interacts with it. Does the puppy follow the ball? Bring it back to you? Or does the dog keep the ball for itself? Puppies that are more dominant will keep the ball for themselves. They will also be reluctant to give the toy back to you. A more submissive puppy is likely to be frightened of the ball coming towards them. A more independent dog will likely show very little interest, if they show any at all. Puppies with an even temperament will show some interest in the ball, will play with it, but will also be willing for you to play a part of the game without showing any aggression. Searching for a more sociable dog? Keep an eye out for the puppy that brings the ball right back to you and asks you to play more. This puppy will be a fantastic candidate for training as well as other exercises. Roll the puppy When the puppy has come over to you, you can try to gently roll them onto their back, then hold them in place. Watch how the puppy reacts to you. Do they relax under your touch, or do they resist you? A dominant puppy will be more likely to resist you. It could even try to bite you or growl at you. An even-tempered puppy will resist at first, but will submit to you after a short time. Pick up your puppy You can physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it under its chest with an open hand. Lift the puppy up, and see what it does. Does the puppy stay relaxed or does it struggle? A struggling dog is likely to be dominant or scared. A puppy that stays perfectly relaxed is showing that it trusts you and that it is confident. This is a similar test to holding the puppy on its back. Chances are the puppy will react immediately. Any resistance or trying to pull their paw away from you could be a sign of an aggressive temperament or dominance. A puppy that accepts your actions will show a more submissive temperament. They could even lick you! Create an unexpected noise This could just be a sudden shout or banging some pots and pans. The important factor will be watching how the puppy reacts to a sudden noise. Do they show interest? Are they scared? Aggressive puppies could try and bite you and growl at you. Visit the puppy parents Most breeders will have both puppy parents in the same place. Some of them may only have the mother with the puppies because the father was on loan from a stud or a different breeder. Either way, the mother of your puppy should be with them when you pay the dogs a visit. If one of the parents appears aggressive, this could show you that you need to do some more training with your new puppy. A dog that displays more dominant tendencies will need proper training to take the edge off these behaviors. Choosing a female German Shepherd will also be a good choice. Puppies will have their off days, just like humans do. It will be important to visit your new puppy a few times and spend at least 30 minutes with them so that you can see what they will be like. They will likely prefer it to someone who only pays their puppy one visit before collecting them! This is a good indicator that the breeder wants their dogs to be matched with the right owners. If there are other people in your household who will be living with the German shepherd puppy, such as kids or a partner, you will need to bring them along, too. Your new puppy will need to get accustomed to the people it will be spending time with. It will be much easier to transition your puppy to living in your home. You should also bring some treats along for your new puppy each time you visit. These are all positive reinforcements that can allow your new puppy to get used to you and encourage them to bond with you. It will also be a good idea to bring something with you that you can leave behind for the puppy. This could be a new toy or a blanket that smells like you. This will allow the puppy to get used to your smell, which can also make the transition easier. They will also be very well acquainted with the mother of the puppies and have knowledge of the father. So your breeder should be able to help you choose the right puppy for your needs, and match the right personality to you. In summary So there you have it! Choosing the right German Shepherd puppy for your needs is certainly more challenging than it first appears. The most important goal is to choose the right dog that will fit in well with you and your family. As long as you do the proper research beforehand, you should be able to find the right dog for your home. Remember to ask the right questions when you find your breeder to make sure that they are a good person to buy a dog from. Be sure to visit your new puppy several times before you bring them home. As long as you take this responsibility seriously, you will have laid the perfect foundation for a fruitful relationship with your new puppy. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.