husky pug mix puppy

If you are looking for a healthy, home-raised, well socialized Pug Puppy you have come to the right place! We occasionally have home-raised Pug Puppies with Champion Bloodlines and from health tested parents available to approved homes. We strive to produce beautiful, healthy pugs with plenty of wrinkles, that are very well socialized, and have gentle temperaments! Most of the families that have adopted a puppy from us are either return buyers or referrals! We believe this says a lot about us and the puppies that we produce! Even if you are looking to adopt your first pug please contact us and we will be glad to answer any questions you may have! But beware, once you have experienced the pleasure of owning a pug you will want another!!! A little about us: Our family consists of my husband and I, and our two young adult boys. We are located on a beautifully wooded 40 acres in Kewaunee, Wisconsin, just 20 minutes east of Green Bay. We have been breeding PUGS for almost 20 years now and could not imagine our life without them! We share our home with each one of our wonderful puggies! We do not consider them our pets, but members of our family! Thank you for visiting our website and please contact us with any questions you may have. Email: sheila kensheipugs. Kenshei Pugs mainly breed for the purposes of producing show dogs, but they do on occasion have puppies available to go to new loving homes. They love their dogs and show commitment to the betterment of the breed in everything they do. But how can you spot reputable breeders when you start searching for a Pug puppy? Here are some tips to help you out. A good breeder will… 1. Issue a health guarantee Make sure that your breeder of choice offers a health guarantee. A reputable Pug breeder will write up a binding health guarantee for all of their puppies. The guarantee protects you against any genetic defects or diseases. It shows that the breeder is confident that their puppies are bred according to best practices. This means if you can no longer look after your pup for some reason, you will be expected to return the puppy to the breeder rather than taking them to a shelter. Provide standard health clearances Your breeder should have full health clearances for both parent Pugs. Good breeders often provide some early health-check clearances for their pups too, although some health clearances simply cannot be carried on such young pups. Issue a written bill of sale Reputable breeders offer written bills of sale to all of their new Pug parents. This bill of sale should be signed and will outline all the roles and responsibilities to be taken on by the buyer and seller as part of the transaction. Vaccinate their puppies All puppies should be up to date on their vaccinations before being homed with new families. Your breeder of choice should be able to provide evidence of these vaccinations. Reputable breeders welcome prospective parents into their homes to see the puppies. Follow age guidelines Puppies should never leave the litter before 8 weeks of age. Any breeder offering pups for adoption before this time is not following best practices. In fact, this could be quite damaging for the puppy developmentally. A reputable breeder will keep their pups at home until eight to twelve weeks so that they can be properly socialized and spend that crucial time with their mother and litter-mates. Answer your questions Last, but not least, a reputable breeder will be knowledgeable. In most cases, they will also want to ask you plenty of questions to ensure that their precious pups are going to good homes. We have a strict selection process that takes a variety of factors into account. That way we can ensure that only the best breeders end up on our lists. This way we know that our chosen breeders offer genetically sound and healthy puppies. Health testing shows a commitment to the health and wellbeing of each Pug. Contact information Any breeder that does not offer up their contact information is a big red flag. A reputable breeder will make it easy for you to get in contact with them by providing telephone numbers, email addresses, and they will usually have a well-established website as well. It shows a commitment to breeding best practices. Event participation Breeders who also compete in doggie events are often some of the best. Because these people tend to be dog lovers par excellence. They live and breathe for their Pugs and are proud to show them off in public. They are also more likely to have a high level of breed knowledge — an excellent sign for a breeder. Breed club membership There are lots of breed clubs out there that breeders can register with. These clubs have rules, regulations, and membership fees. If your breeder is registered with the Pug Dog Club of America, this is a great sign showing commitment to the Pug breed. Recognition awards Lastly, we look out for awards! Institutions like the AKC recognize the efforts and achievements of top breeders. The very best will be awarded the AKC recognition of merit award. During this time we recommend getting everything ready before your new arrival rattles through the front door. Your puppy will need: a crate for sleeping and training during the early days quality puppy-grade food a leash and harness plenty of toys You may also wish to purchase a puppy gate if there are areas of your home that you want to keep your Pug away from. This is all about making your home as safe as possible for your new arrival. Make sure anything that could potentially cause harm to your pup is removed. Clear your schedule Having a Pug puppy is a bit like having a human baby. So make sure to clear your schedule and get all of those errands done ahead of time! Once they arrive… 4. Avoid crowds Hold your excitement. That means no crowds. Try to keep the home environment as stress-free as possible so that your puppy can settle in and start to feel part of the family. Crate training is the first step. Lay down a regular routine from the get to and your Pug will be good as gold in no time.

They are eager and athletic. They are also very easy to train, which makes them a great family dog. But they do require a lot of grooming. Many poodle owners believe that because this breed is mostly low shedding, it is also low maintenance. But this could not be further from the truth. The truth is that poodles do require daily grooming. This includes brushing and combing everyday or at least 3 times a week. Creating a grooming routine with your poodle is vital to keeping their fluffy coat mat-free! Matting is the number one grooming problem that poodle owners encounter. Matted fur does not only look bad, but it is very painful for poodles. If not removed, it can also cause other health issues including discomfort, skin disorder, flea infestation, mites, worms, and other parasites. And severe matting usually leads to a shavedown, right to the skin. Shaving a fluffy poodle is actually very frustrating for an owner because they may not know what they are doing wrong. These are the top three tools that will make grooming so much easier. A High Quality Slicker Brush The slicker brush is the number one dog brush recommended by grooming professionals for poodles. It is actually the type of brush you want to start with when grooming your dog because it will help break up any knots and prevent matting. It is perfect for poodle coat maintenance at home. It is always important to keep the bristles of a slicker brush from bending or getting damaged as this can cause skin irritation, pain, and discomfort. What we love about this brush is that you can brush your poodle, and then just click and clean the brush. The bristles retract when you click so they are kept from being damaged. And your brush can be stored and ready for your next brushing session. The poodle slicker brush is great at working through dense and thick coats because of its larger than standard pins. This slicker brush is gentle and smoothly works its way through your poodle's coat. It is one of the best slicker brushes on the market for poodle owners because it makes coat maintenance much easier. It is great at removing tangles and mats. It's also perfect for achieving that fluffly look effortlessly. The Poodle slicker brush is extremely lightweight, the extra-long handle is ergonomic, and it is very comfortable and effective. A Dematting Tool A double-sided dematting tool is perfect for grooming your poodle when matting is the problem as it is specifically designed to remove mats. The dematting tool can come in very handy before having to take your pup to the groomer for a shavedown. This tool has a 9-rounded-teeth side specifically designed for dematting purposes. We love recommending the Freshly Bailey dematting brush because it has proven to be effective at removing mats while creating a positive grooming experience. The brush is terrific for getting deep into the dog's coat and for working through the stubborn tangles. A Metal Comb A metal comb should be used after you have brushed your poodle thoroughly with the slicker brush. The end result should be the ability to get the comb from the root to the tip of the hair. We like the Dual-length Dog Metal Comb. It has long and short stainless steel teeth to quickly and painlessly remove any remaining tangles or knots. And the anti-slip handle protects your dog from any slippery accidents. The hammock is also a great tool for grooming your poodle's face, legs, and tail. It really does save tons of time and frustration. If you bathe your dog, make sure you brush your dog's hair before the actual bath and use a high quality shampoo and conditioner. We love the 5-in-1 Pet Shampoo , it is great for poodle hair. If you bathe your dog's matted hair without detangling it, it will just get worse! Wait for the fur to dry after the bath, and then brush it again. Do not brush a wet coat. Do not just brush the top of the coat as this does not really do anything to prevent matting. Start at the bottom of the coat, grab a handful of hair, and brush a line of fur away. You should be able to see the skin. As you go, brush the hair down making sure that with each line you get right to the skin. If you have the self-cleaning slicker brush, just click, clean, and store when finished. Otherwise, make sure the bristles are thoroughly cleaned. If the comb gets stuck in any particular section, go back and brush out the tangle with the slicker brush. Use the 9-rounded-teeth side. Hold the matted fur closest to the skin with your fingers before brushing or pulling at the mat. Start at the end of the mat and work your way up. Always do small strokes when combing through a mat. Pin Brush Many owners opt for the pin brush due to being one of the best for Poodles. They are pretty gentle while keeping coats nice and glossy. The pin brush is mainly a topcoat brush and is one of the most common brushes for this bread. The wire pin brush also is excellent for static or Poodles with curly hair. It contains lengths for all coats with wider gaps. Since the bristles have a wider opening, the hair follicles are protected. Therefore, the overall damage is minor. The bristles also distribute oils evenly. The rubber bristles wear down over time as well. Despite the cons, there are a lot of positive qualities to the pin brush. Ready to Adopt Puppyspot Poodle Adoption 5. They have placed over , puppies into homes in the US! The double sided brush ensures the right comb for any job regardless of if the pet has short, medium or long hair Comfortable grooming. The rounded ends on the pin brush make it easy and comfortable for dogs and cats while the non-slip handle conforms to hand no matter how it is held Easy fast grooming. Easily knock off loose hair and dirt with the bristle side, get a beautiful, groomed coat for dogs or cats with the pin brush side Get rid of mats and loose hairs. Groom the undercoat without scratching the pet's skin with soft yet firm nylon bristles while the rounded pins designed to penetrate deep into the coat Brushing has never been simpler. A double-sided brush will meet all your grooming needs and helps with finishing and combing. All these people can't be wrong about this comfortable and safe brush We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. The pin side is convenient for longer coats, while the brush side is excellent for final touches and sensitive skin. This brush includes soft pins and rounded ends and provides flexibility. While the brush is for all coat lengths, it quickly takes off dirt and loose hair and provides a lifetime guarantee. A white Poodle puppy with a squishy plush toy in his mouth 2. Slicker Brush A slicker brush is a must have for Poodles due to the flat and fine bristles. In addition, slicker brushes work well with curlier coats. Now, get knots out quickly without the hassle. Slicker brushes are also extremely easy to use for owners too. Scratching and discomfort are also possible with the slicker brush. Like all brushes, they contain unique purposes. Next, I will break down one of the best slicker brushes. With the self-cleaning slicker brush, there are a lot of pros, and it is excellent for thicker coats. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. All you have to do is press a button to release the hair from the dog brush. The Hertzko removes tangles with ease and is gentle enough for your Poodle. There are also cons to consider, including the price. Another downside is that you have to hold down the button when brushing your Poodle. If not, the bristles retract. Brushing your Poodle every day is now easier than ever and is an excellent investment for your buck! Portrait of little parti Poodle dog with curly fur sitting at the park with her owner 3. Dematting Comb As I said before, matting is a significant issue for Poodles which is also a dangerous health hazard when your dog chews and scratches the area. Luckily, there are special de-matting brushes to help. However, choosing stainless steel is the way to go. The de-matting comb works excellent for poodles with longer hair—the blades massage without scratching to get through the tough tangles. Rakes remove not only unwanted tangles but also dead skin. Built to last through multiple grooming.It also promotes blood circulation and massages the skin for better pet health. It's suitable for all short- and long-haired dogs, cats, and other pets. It combs and massages the coat, preventing snagging and harm. The Poodle Pet Dematting Rake contains 2. The rubber grips are a plus, and the comb is safe for wet or dry hair. The comb works well for longer Poodle coats. However, be careful as it cuts easily, but overall it has many benefits to get rid of matting on your Poodle. The brush is also functional, as it contains a hole for hanging and is excellent for storage. What is the correct Poodle teething age? How many teeth do they lose? Detangling Comb Detangling combs is a necessity for your pup for many reasons. Reasons for tangling include: Low humidity in the air Lack of brushing Not using the right brush Having a skin infection Using certain chemicals, sprays, or chlorine from pools Following these guidelines will help. Frequent brushing with the right brush tool is essential. The comb contains a non-slip rubber handle, making the holding process easier. The detangling comb will take care of matting and, of course, detangle your Poodle. However, the comb may not suit more miniature Poodles. Also, depending on how bad the matting is on your pup, it may not work as well. Finishing Brush After you brush and comb the tangles, you can use a finishing brush to complete your at-home grooming. Use long strokes to remove additional loose hair, dust, and dirt. From top to bottom, you will perfect your Poodles coat effortlessly. The finishing brush is an affordable option that will make your friendly Poodle shine. Andis Pet Comb This finishing comb is a popular choice to double-check and remove leftover tangles or matting. Then, finally, get a fluffy result with the Andis comb! The brush comes in two sizes, suitable for big and small Poodles. In addition, the Andis comb is versatile since you can use it on different coats. The wide comb will detangle effortlessly, whether you need fine or coarse teeth. Work on tiny sections while taking your time. Enjoy this comb whether your Poodle has a very curly coat or is wavy. While using the Andis comb, your Poodle is show dog ready! Additional Brush Tips Every brush has a purpose, and all are great for brushing your Poodle. Fluff, detangle and style with one tool.White on White was a catalyst in the evolution of.Growing out your Poodles coat is vital for a curlier look. Brushing is essential every day, but luckily this article has you covered. Clipped Coat Poodles When it comes to a clipped Poodle, you can create this look in various ways. Typically, a trip to the groomer enhances this look, which a groomer easily achieves. In addition, a clipped coat is easier to maintain at home, which means less brushing. Corded Coat Poodles This style is different since brushing is very different for a corded Poodle. Hair divides into cords, similar to dreadlocks. However, maintenance is more complex. Although, brushing is more accessible and less frequent. Next, when searching for the perfect brush, the following items are great reminders: Look at the materials used, and the overall quality and durability Look for easy to grip handles Double-check, the size of the brush in comparison to your Poodle Overall, these three different coats are essential to picking out the best brush for your Poodle. Luckily, all Poodles contain just one coat layer. A new outlook on brushing with ease awaits you! Using a blunt comb to groom and style a Mini brown Poodle dog Remember, the best brush tool for your Poodle depends on the length, coat, size of your pup, and how often tangling and matting occur. A pin and bristle combination brush are excellent for all Poodles. For another daily option, perhaps the slicker brush suits your needs. The Hertzko Self-Cleaning Brush is a popular yet functional tool with great benefits. If your Poodle needs extra care due to deeper tangles, perhaps the detangling or matting combs are for you. As a result, I hope you feel confident preparing for your next steps. Similar Posts. Image Credit: everydoghasastory, Shutterstock Size of the Brush The size of the brush that you purchase will depend on the size of your Poodle. The smaller the Poodle, the smaller the brush needs to be. Always double-check the listed measurements. You should also look at any photos that customers have posted, as those should give you a much better idea of the size. These are typically a slicker brush, pin brush, comb, and shedding brush. The slicker brush is probably the most common tool used on Poodles. Image Credit: David Herraez Calzada, Shutterstock The Handle Most brushes tend to have ergonomic rubber handles designed to be comfortable in your hands and prevent slipping. Finally, the Resco Wrap Comb for Dogs is expensive, but it is sturdy and well-made and is an excellent anti-static comb. Hopefully, these reviews of 10 of the best Poodle brushes have brought you closer to finding the perfect brush for your pup. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts' knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.Read more Advertisement. There seems to be an endless supply of brushes and grooming products out there for dogs. How do you know which brushes are best for your Poodle? Just like with beauty and hygiene products in humans, there is a myriad of different hairbrush options available for dogs. The best types of hair brushes for poodles include: Slicker Brushes: The Slicker Brush is the most commonly recommended brush type for grooming a Poodle. These are the best choice for regular grooming and working out tough mats in the hair. Combs: A sturdy toothed comb is another valuable grooming tool for you and your poodle. A comb can be particularly beneficial when it comes to grooming more sensitive areas, like the face, so you avoid any poking with the wire bristles of the slicker brush. They work similarly to the slicker brush but can be more effective for cleaning out any dirt that may have been trapped in the coat. These are designed with fine metal teeth to collect any loose hair that would be shed. If you really want to eliminate pet hair altogether, then regular use of the shedding brush definitely helps. Grooming a Poodle is an involved and labor-intensive process. Here are some of our favorite brushes found on Amazon to keep a poodle beautiful and happy. Best of all, this brush features a self-cleaning mechanism. Anyone who has experience brushing a Poodle knows what a pain it can be to try and clean the brush so that it remains effective during use. Well, with just the push of a button, the pins retract, allowing the trapped hair to fall away so you can quickly wipe the pad clean. This brush comes in three different sizes, so be sure to pick one that is right for your size pet. Cleaning will require a little bit more effort, however, since you will have to pull all the hair out from between the bristles. This brush is best for large dogs with dense, coarse coats. Safari Dematting Dog Comb Matted hair is not only unsightly but also uncomfortable for your dog. Regular use of a slicker brush will help keep hair from getting severely matted. If you do notice some matted hair on your dog, you will want a large comb to work it out. I recommend the Safari Dematting Dog Comb to work out any tough area of matted hair. This wide-toothed comb is a great choice for working out those stubborn tufts of hair. Best of all, this comb is equipped with serrated edges to gently root out dead skin and tough tangles. This comb is pretty large though, maybe even too large for the facial area of your pet. However, if you are interested in really taming any shedding that may exist, consider the FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool for Dogs This specially designed grooming tool reaches deep into the coat to gently lift and remove any lingering hair. This FURminator brush was designed by a professional groomer to be effective and safe. Regular use of this brush will virtually eliminate shedding from your poodle altogether. Andis Pin Brush This pin brush very closely resembles a traditional human hairbrush. While it may not seem that your average hairbrush could tackle the dense curls of a Poodle, the Andis Pin Brush is a great addition to your grooming arsenal. There are no special gadgets or gimmicks to this brush, so you can trust it to perform simply and reliably for a long time. Plus, it is one of the cheapest brushes on our list! Millers Forge Unbreakable Style Slicker Brush A common and disheartening issue when using a slicker brush is that the brush may get stuck and as you try to remove it and the handle breaks. This highly affordable, simple slicker brush boasts an absolutely unbreakable handle. It features fine stainless steel bristles, like the other slicker brushes on this list. The handle construction is really the specialty here. You need a solid comb, that you can be precise with to avoid poking any sensitive areas. This comb is on the smaller side but features a side with narrow spaced stainless steel teeth on one side, and widely spaced teeth on the other. The small, ergonomic handle is easy to control in those more delicate spaces. The primary drawback is that the comb is maybe too small to really reach all needed areas in larger Poodles. The ball tip pins remove tangles deep down, and then the bristles on the other side are great for clearing away excess hair. The ergonomic grip is designed for comfort while you work out each and every tangle. I have experienced issues with the handle breaking with this product. This high-quality slicker brush features stainless steel bristles and a self cleaning retractable function to easily dislodge hair from the bristles. This is one of the slightly more expensive brushes on the list but is worth every penny! The bristles of this brush are slightly more flexible than some others that are a bit more rigid. Hertzko claims this helps the brush more effectively penetrate thick hair without scratching or irritating skin. How Do You Brush a Poodle? Choosing your grooming tools is just the beginning. But with all the curls, it can seem a little daunting. You may not even be sure where to start or what direction to brush in. If you find yourself hitting a lot of resistance, consider trying a different tool to see if you can work it out the tangle. Avoid applying too much pressure in response to resistance. You want to help work out knots and mats, not just tear through them. Otherwise, this could be incredibly painful for your dog. Be patient and take your time as your brush. Depending on the size of your Poodle, it will take a little while to really get all the way through. Rushing usually ends up being less effective and more painful. Poodles should be brushed between two and three times a week in order to maintain a healthy coat. Poodles have naturally curly hair which easily traps dust, dirt, and debris, resulting in tangles and matted hair. Setting aside time daily for brushing can prevent tough tangles and matted hair from appearing, Depending on how much outside playing your Poodle gets and the density of his coat, daily brushing may be the best bet. This sounds like a chore, but Poodles are a bit high-maintenance pets. While it may be labor-intensive to brush your Poodle daily, remember that regular everyday grooming will save you time and effort in the long run, saving you the work of getting tangles and mats out later. Regular short brushing sessions will also be more comfortable for your pet than irregular, very long grooming sessions where you have to work out all these knots and tangles. It is important to note that how regularly you brush your Poodle does not have anything to do with how regularly the coat is trimmed, and how the hair grows. This depends on what sort of grooming and trim style you prefer for your Poodle. Now you could consider grooming your Poodle yourself, but this is only something you should do with the right tools and practice. You would need a special grooming table, some clippers, scissors, and some additional combs and brushes. Check out this article I wrote on the best grooming tables for Poodles. Check out this video if you would like to learn more about grooming your Poodle at home: Professional groomers not only offer valuable experience, but also critical knowledge and care. Basic grooming maintenance, like brushing and baths, are fine at home, but unless you are experienced, leave the haircuts to the professionals. When brushing your Poodle, consider these tips: Try to make grooming fun for your dog. Grooming has the potential to be an unpleasant experience in more ways than one, so incentivize your pup to behave positively. Reward patience and good behavior with treats and affection. Provide positive reinforcement and high-value rewards to keep your dog engaged and calm during the entire grooming process. Toy Poodles and Standard Poodles will need slightly different attention and tools. Remember that your Poodle does not have an undercoat. Many dogs have a top coat and an undercoat. It just means that when you are brushing your dog, you will be reaching down into the hair that you can see, and then you will be reaching the skin. In fact, there are three different varieties of common poodle coats, and they should be treated a little bit differently. The three main types of poodle coats include: Curly Coats: A curly coat is a way to describe a poodle whose hair has been allowed to grow long naturally. These long, curly coats require a lot of regular brushing and attention to keep them from getting twisted and matted with dirt. Corded Coats: A corded coat when rather than brush mats out, they are separated into little sections that closely resemble cords. This is a pretty cool look, but it can be difficult to maintain. Clipped Coats: The clipped coat is likely what comes to mind when you imagine a poodle that recently got a haircut. The groomer trims down the length of the curls to a much more manageable length. Check out this article I wrote on different Poodle hair types to see even more in-depth information and pictures of these Poodle coats, as well as a few more not mentioned in this article. There are several options out there, and they all primarily achieve the same goal, which is helping to loosen knots and tangles. You basically just spritz a little bit of the spray in the desired area before brushing and then brush as normal. It should help to loosen the curls. The best detangling spays found on Amazon include: 1. The spray uses silk proteins and vitamins to detangle hair and loosen knots while leaving behind a healthy shine. The product is made in the USA without any parabens or sulfates. If you notice your dog is irritated in any way by the spray, then you should stop using it, but it is perfectly safe and effective to help you brush out those tangles. The eco-friendly formula is carefully crafted to be completely safe for your furry friend. It is pH balanced to soothe their skin, and there is no danger if they lick or ingest any of the product. Pet Head manufactures the product in the USA without the use of sulfates or parabens. Poodles are amazing companions but require considerably more upkeep and attention than some other breeds. All of the brushes described above are great for their specific purpose, but they work best when combined. A slicker brush is the best primary tool when brushing your poodle. Though unnecessary, a shedding brush may also be employed to remove any excess loose hair in Poodles. I recommend that you try out a slicker brush, a comb, and a pin brush, and see what works for you and your pet. Sometimes all you need is a quick spritz to loosen things up. Lastly, check in with your groomer next time you stop by for a trim about what they recommend. No matter what brush and style you go with, just remember that it is most important to keep your Poodle happy and healthy. I hope you found it helpful. Here are some products that I personally believe every owner should employ to help ensure the best quality of life for their dogs. But in all honesty, these are the exact products that I use and recommend to everyone, even my own family. Lemonade Pet Insurance : Lemonade Pet Insurance has enabled me to afford a very high level of veterinary care for my dog, Angus. Even after he was diagnosed with cancer a few years back. This program actually works, and at a small fraction of the cost of hiring a dog trainer! Pet Plate is the dog food subscription service I use to provide extremely healthy, pre-portioned meals for my dog. Pet Plate gives my dog Angus the highest quality nutrition at a very affordable price. BarkBox : Without a doubt, my dog enjoys Barkbox more than anything else I buy him. BarkBox delivers a customized box of themed toys, treats, and other products to your door each month. In addition, I like that a percentage of proceeds is donated to local animal shelters. I Purchase this service for my dog Angus and have saved hundreds of dollars over visiting his local vet with questions or more minor health concerns. Brent Hartman I'm Brent Hartman. I've been a dog lover my entire life and have owned many animals over the years. When my black lab Angus passed away, I was looking for another friend to share my life with. As a result of my research, I've come to love poodles and wanted to share some of what I've learned with you. Whether you're looking to adopt a poodle, or already own one, I created Poodle report to be the ultimate guide to help you find the answers you need. Recent Posts. We only recommend products we have tested and use on our own dogs. Poodles are intelligent and affectionate, but, boy do they take a lot of grooming! My sister had a Poodle for years, and they often appeared to share the same hairstyle — tangled and unruly! While my sister valiantly tried to tame her own hair with a tangle teaser, she battled to find a brush that could work the same magic on Daisy, her standard Poodle. My sister went through at least five combs, a couple of dematting rakes, and a handful of slicker brushes before she struck gold in the form of a Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush. Suddenly, Daisy was transformed into a big, beautiful ball of white fluff! The ergonomic handle makes it more comfortable for the groomer as well, taking the hand strain out of a long grooming session and making you more willing to commit to a daily pampering ritual. Not only will the Hertzko slicker brush remove dead hair and tangles, but it will also help prevent mats from developing, but boosting circulation, and improving the overall quality of your dog's coat. Check the current price! I think one of the things Daisy appreciated most about this slicker brush was that it massages your dog at the same time as removing tangles and matted hair. Simple, but highly effective. With its two-and-a-half inch blades, this durable brush looks like an instrument of torture - according to Daisy, anyway - but it proved quite pleasurable for her in the end. Top-grade rubber forms the body of the brush, making it perfect for high-maintenance hounds like the Poodle. You can even use it on long-haired rabbits and horses if necessary! Just run the comb through the damp curls and, voila, the individual strands of hair stay separated so the tangles can get a foothold. Two sets of teeth - one long, one short - give this comb its dual-action power that will get rid of the toughest tangles and impossible mats. Even skittish dogs with prior bad experiences at the groomer's seem to find it comfortable. Cheaper than either the rake comb or the slicker brush, this comb is comfortable to use, effective, and offers excellent value for money. At eight inches long and 2. It works well on both the Poodle's curly coat and the softer, wavier hair of the various Doodle breeds. It comes with coarse and fine teeth, both of which will stimulate the hair follicles while removing tangles and debris from the coat. The Andis pet steel comb glides through the coat thanks to its well-spaced teeth, making it comfortable for your Poodle. It is also small enough for you to concentrate on sections of the coat, rather than brushing the entire dog in one go, making it easier to use on dogs that squirm or fidget during the grooming process. How to Pick the Best Brush for a Poodle With so many different brushes and grooming products for Poodles, it can be tricky to figure out which is the best for you. Professional groomers tend to prefer slicker brushes, like the one from Hertzko, because they are easy to clean, versatile, and hard-wearing. They can also make the grooming process more comfortable for a skittish or fidgety dog. The only type of popular dog brush we have not mentioned is the shedding brush, and you will find out why in a minute. Poodles are known as hypoallergenic dogs as they do not shed like most breeds. Another thing about Poodles that sets them apart from other dog breeds is that they only have one coat, rather than two. This means that there is no undercoat to be removed, which is what shedding brushes like the Furminator are designed to do. Using a brush of this kind on your Poodle could result in you pulling her hair out by the roots, causing her discomfort, hair loss, and potential skin disorders. My sister used to brush Daisy daily but, once she started using the Hertzko slicker brush, found she could drop it down to every other day. A good bath once a month gives you the chance to help your dog reset. Bathing stimulates the skin and improves the quality of the coat. Using a detangling shampoo and conditioner can make it easier to brush or comb the coat afterward to ensure your dog is free from the irritation of matted hair. A hypoallergenic shampoo is also highly recommended for Poodles who are prone to skin sensitivities and allergies. You can shave a Poodle early on in their life! Conclusion Keeping your Poodle tangle-free and looking good requires a regular grooming regime and one of the best brushes for Poodles. Affordable yet durable, the Hertzko slicker brush removes mats without hurting your dog and cleans itself with the clip of a button. Poodles that spend a lot of time running through the undergrowth and splashing in the mud will inevitably develop a muddle of mats through their coats. The Poodle Pet dematting fur rake can take on the toughest of tangles with its two-and-a-half-inch blades. Affordable and effective it can be teamed with a finishing comb, like the one from Andis, to leave your Poodle looking ready to enter its first show. She spends all her waking hours with her Australian Cattle Dog, Koala, either walking, horse-riding, running, or just hanging out. Originally from the UK, Nicky been living with dogs for over 40 years and is a passionate dog-owner. With a Masters Degree from the University of London under her belt, Nicky has had a diverse career, training and riding horses, running safari lodges, and hosting volunteers. Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly.

I have owned and trained Labradors since .My wife and I have been breeding Labradors since for the sole purpose of improving the Labrador breed as a whole. When I first thought about breeding Labs, one of my early mentors, the late George Kane, told me his definition. Now, more than two decades later, we bring to light that definition with every decision we make. Dogs that we personally own have competed in more than 1, stakes in just the last ten years. Why go to all that time, trouble and expense? Because that Sire or Dam is only as good as their last series or stake they ran in. So, week in and week out, you can find our Sires and Dams competing in various venues all over America and Canada. You always have and always will, set the standard for other breeders to follow. You certainly have the records and so many accomplishments to prove it. I never thought about it that way. Nothing comes easy, and we always take the road less traveled. The good Lord has blessed us with so much. Scooter earned his first advanced title at 10 months of age and his MH title at 21 months and 5 days old. Have you ever gone to a hunt test or field trial, and learned that you had the youngest dog competing in that event? It sure makes you feel very proud and blessed. Simply amazing! Again, we are so blessed. Scooter went on to qualify for four National Field Trial Championships. I am not sure how many Fox Reds can say they qualified for more. We have a support team of multiple awesome professional trainers and great friends who share our unquenchable passion for helping Black Ice Retrievers produce the most intelligent decorated pointing Labradors in the country. We take the responsibility, investment, and extensive research, which all go along with our goal, extremely serious. Sometimes, we have waited close to three years across multiple repeat breedings just to get the exact one pick of the litter we desire. I grew up hunting ducks off of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers in St. This is where if your lab could not handle multiple marks and blinds, you and your dog were not invited back. We have some of the highest standards in the industry. While other lab kennels breed great grandchildren, grandchildren, and daughters of well accomplished dogs, we only have litters from dogs that are well accomplished themselves. Why do breeders promote puppies from unproven parents? Second, the testing of the dog takes time, effort, and investment. You need to decide for yourself what type of buyer you are and then do your research. This industry is very competitive, and you can buy a lab from just about anywhere, but you get what you pay for. Our best customers are families who simply want the best possible dog for the dollar and take the time and effort to make the best informed buying decision possible. Thank you for visiting our website. We hope you enjoy browsing through all the details of our proven brand. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to us. Our contact information can be found on the Contact page. May God Bless you and your families. God Bless! You can have confidence your new puppy from Southern Flight Retrievers will have all the drive you are needing in your 4 legged hunting companion for those long retrieves in field trial events or in muddy grass marshes and waterways. Then after the successful hunt, field trial event, or just a daily walk in the great outdoors your furry companion will be ready to curl up for an evening by your side, ready to do it all again the next day. Working Labrador Retrievers We raise working labrador retrievers, not show labradors This means our puppies are bred to be very trainable, very athletic, with strong beautiful body builds for endurance when hunting or competing out in the fields, marshes or waterways. This is made possible by carefully selecting what will be our future brood Bitches. We make sure the mother of your future puppy is of strong character, lots of natural retrieving drive, highly trainable, and a calm, not hyper temperament. Sires have a great record of offspring performing well. All the male labs we use are out of very strong Field Trial and Hunt Test Pedigrees that have been carefully selected for each breeding to produce the healthiest and highly trainable puppies. Why Buy a Lab Puppy From Southern Retrievers Do you want the confidence in knowing your puppy came from a reputable breeder that has done the best they could to provide you with a very well bred, and guaranteed healthy puppy? Do you want the assurance you can contact the breeder anytime for advice, tips, and questions? These are the questions we strive to answer and fulfill to the best of our ability for each and every one of our clients, whether a new client or a returning client for multiple puppies. We want to keep in touch with you as our client to see your puppy grow into a beautiful dog with many achievements. You are welcome to have a look at them to see what your future puppy from Southern Flight Retrievers could look like. Take a look at the testimonials we have received. Labor Day sale! Pleasant Knoll Champion Labrador Retrievers is located on acres of rolling hills located at the foot of the Appalachian Mountains in Middle Tennessee. Our animals are free to play, hunt, and train on plenty of land that includes 4 ponds where they hunt with the Anderson family. Our ladies are wonderful and loving mothers who teach their puppies to hunt, water exploration, and exercise. Shots are given at 6, 9, 12, and 15 weeks and dewormed every 2 weeks. Our puppies are happy, healthy and well socialized, and ready to go at 8 weeks and older. Their puppies have been trained for hunting and service animals, and are wonderful companions for loving families. All our sires, dams, and puppies are AKC registered. AKC proudly supports dedicated and responsible breeders. Our family looks forward to meeting you and helping you find the perfect puppy for your needs! The Labrador is well-known for being very mild-mannered, cheerful, alert, and friendly. They are exceptionally good with children, which makes them very good family dogs. Labrador Retrievers are also very responsive and social dogs, which often means there are fewer issues for owners to contend with when introducing them to other animals. Labrador Retriever puppies are especially good for families with children. Being by your side is about the best place she likes to be. She presents three Field Champions in her pedigree along with 16 Master Hunters. Her loving personality and strong desire to retrieve makes her the perfect package. Training is her favorite pass time, you ask her and consider it accomplished. She is the whole package, loving companion and loyal hunting buddy. Her personality will put a smile on your face. Happy, yes just look at her, she is definitely a very happy smart and loving gal. She has a very strong pedigree presenting 3 National Field Champions and 15 Field Champions in her 4 generation pedigree. She is a beautiful muscular and rock solid 52 pound black female. She is the total package of pure energy and personality. She can outrun anyone and her love of retrieving is pure and always front and center. She taught her well, a strong hunting partner and a loyal family companion who loves with her whole heart. She is so very smart, loves training the young gals at Bailiwick. She has a very strong pedigree, presenting in her four generation 5 National Field Champions. She has a very loving personality and a strong desire to please. Bree is very smart, tell her once what you would like and consider it done, totally connected at all times. She is a devoted companion who loves with her whole heart. At the end of the day she will be right by your side. Her pedigree presents 5 National Field Champions, with her grandfather…. She came into this world dreaming of ducks and duck ponds. She is willing to do whatever you ask of her. Retrieving or just being by your side, she is happy and willing, totally devoted. Her eyes show her personality. Her love is retrieving, if you have the time she has the energy. She presents two National Field Champions in her pedigree…. She loves with her whole heart and lives life to the maximum. Her happy personality sets her apart. Watch her for five minutes and you will have a smile on your face. She is a very smart loving and athletic gal. He is a devoted hunting companion and a loving family member. His personality will put a smile on your face. By your side is his favorite place and spending the day hunting and retrieving, is the icing on the cake. He has a strong desire to please, ask him and consider it done.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. She is named for the hit song "Rumor Has It" by Adele, a champion herself who had sweeping success when she won top song of the year, top record of the year and top album of the year at the Grammy Awards this month. I have attended the prestigious Westminster Dog Show for the last 20 years and I thought the competition this year was the best. Rumor nearly won Westminster last year when she came to New York as the nation's No. There were nearly 2, dogs entered in the st Westminster canine competition, spread across the eligible breeds and varieties. A win at this show is important in every breed because it is on live television before a worldwide audience. It is also the place to showcase the traits and attributes of a breed in front of millions who are able to listen to noted authorities discuss the breeds special traits and characteristics. Rumor represented the breed in the best of ways. Last year she won the group. The judges who have judged her and the media all discussed her attributes and the work ethic of the breed, its smooth and effortless movement and its many uses as a companion and service dog. To enlarge just simply click the picture. To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. All rights reserved. She came to town as the nation's No. Timothy A. Rumor was crowned America's top dog Tuesday night when, a year after a near miss, she came out of retirement to win best in show at the Westminster Kennel Club. Cheered loudly all around the ring by a packed crowd at Madison Square Garden, and clearly the crowd favorite, she's just the second German shepherd to win the event that began in .In a year that's seen lots of late, startling twists in sports — think Patriots, Cubs and Cavaliers — Rumor pulled a shocker. She'd been at home in Wisconsin for months, a house pet headed toward having puppies, when she suddenly jumped back into the show ring in January. Seeing a pet go from the couch to this top prize, heck, that's a dog world Hail Mary. Rumor beat out a Norwegian elkhound, a Pekingese, a miniature poodle, an Irish setter, a boxer and a Norwich terrier in the final ring. The Irish setter called Adrian finished second. She is just magnificent. There were nearly 2, dogs entered in the st Westminster canine competition, spread across the eligible breeds and varieties. The Associated Press. Email Quite a rally for Rumor — a commanding comeback for German shepherds, too. Rumor was crowned America's top dog Tuesday night when, a year after a near miss on the very same green carpet, she came out of retirement to win best in show at the Westminster Kennel Club. Cheered loudly all around the ring by a packed crowd at Madison Square Garden, she's just the second German shepherd champion at the event that began in .Gifts from individuals power everything you find here. Make a gift of any amount today to become a Member! Heart In a year that's seen lots of late, startling twists in sports — think Patriots, Cubs and Cavaliers — Rumor pulled something of a shocker. She'd been at home in Wisconsin for months, a house pet headed toward having puppies, when she suddenly jumped back into the show ring in January. Meanwhile in Minnesota: Canine candidate re-elected town mayor Boyles is a fan of the Packers and star quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Seeing a pet go from the couch to this top prize, heck, that's a dog world Hail Mary. The 5-year-old Rumor beat out a Norwegian elkhound, a Pekingese, a miniature poodle, an Irish setter, a boxer and a Norwich terrier in the final ring. The Irish setter called Adrian finished second. She is just magnificent. This was the th career win for Rumor, and earlier in the day, Boyles said that this would definitely, for real, be her last major show. Rumor raised up for a well-deserved treat right after the win. Moments later, as Boyles did post-show interviews, Rumor spotted him and ran toward the man who guided her to victory. Rumor joined the fittingly named Manhattan in as the only German shepherds to go best in show at the Garden. There were nearly 2, dogs entered in the st Westminster canine competition, spread across the eligible breeds and varieties. The moment any German shepherd steps into the ring at the Garden, the crowd goes crazy. New Yorkers just love 'em. Some say it's because rooting for a German shepherd is the same as putting on an NYPD or FDNY hat, standing up for a dog that stood tall at a time of the city's greatest need. While German shepherds hadn't won a lot here, many of them were on the green carpet of the center ring in when Westminster honored search and rescue dogs for their tireless work at the World Trade Center and Pentagon following the Sept. The solemn tribute is considered by many the most cherished memory ever at Westminster. Paw-nder this: Your dog remembers every move you make Rumor nearly won Westminster last year. She came to town as the nation's No. In fact, when the judge began to announce his champion pick with "German sh.That was supposed to be Rumor's last show, and she was set to head home with Boyles to Edgerton, Wis. She didn't conceive and late in the year, Boyles thought twice about Rumor's retirement. Rumor went back on the circuit in January for 10 shows. She won the herding group Monday night at the Garden, beating top show favorite Preston the puli. She topped that with the ultimate win at America's most prestigious dog show, rewarding the faith German shepherd fans always show in them. Providing Support for MPR. World Rumor the German shepherd is best in show at Westminster dog show Rumor, a German shepherd, was named best in show at the st Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show on Tuesday, besting more than 2, other dogs that competed in New York this week. It marks the second time a German shepherd has won the top prize at the show. The breed last won in , which also represents the only other time a dog from the herding group has won at Westminster. Boyles, who said he became "German shepherd crazy" as a child, has been breeding the dog for 35 years. Boyles said he and his family will drive back to Wisconsin with Rumor, where she will be retired from shows. Rumor, whose favourite snack is prime rib, will likely begin bearing puppies, Boyles said. Rumor won the herding category in as well, but lost the top prize to a German short-haired pointer. Bradley III said, in an interview with broadcasters about his pick. Adrian, an Irish setter from the sporting group, was named runner-up on Tuesday. A total of breeds vied for the blue ribbon at Westminster, which began in , making it the country's second longest-running sporting event behind the Kentucky Derby horse race, launched in .Hairless pooch competitor feels 'like a warm piece of baloney' Devlin, a boxer, won the working group on Tuesday, while Tanner, a Norwich terrier, was the winner in the terrier group. On Monday, the opening night of the two-day competition, in addition to the German shepherd Rumor, a Norwegian elkhound, a Pekingese, and a miniature poodle won their groups. Devlin, the boxer, has lived with and been trained by Diego Garcia in Lillington, N. Three new breeds debuted in this year's competition: the sloughi, a North African sighthound; the American hairless terrier, first bred in the s to hunt rats and other vermin; and the pumi, an ancient Hungarian herding breed. This year's contestants came from 49 U. Dogs are judged on characteristics specific to their breeds.

Currency Dogger Blog Learn tricks of the grooming trade and how to get the most out of grooming and deshedding your doggo pal. Have you tried getting them into the tub or even keeping them still in the garden with the hose pointed at them or a bucket of water by their side? They will most likely want to run away. Before you try to wrangle them for a bath, read these tips first, or you may end up getting wetter than them! German Shepherds have a double coat - the topcoat and the undercoat. The topcoat protects them from sun exposure, dust and other particles. The undercoat protects them from the harsh, cold weather during winter, and the heat from the summer. Their double coat has natural oils, and bathing too frequently will only strip away these oils. And which may cause their skin to get dry and irritated. Nevertheless, during flea season, you can bathe your German Shepherd more often to control any pests. In addition, if your dog has a bit of a pungent scent during the summer, you can bathe him every 2 months. And if your German Shepherd plays out in the open and gets dirty, you may consider bathing more often. Brushing is another factor that would determine how often you bathe your German Shepherd. Brushing also makes their coat shinier and healthier. Start from the neck working your way towards the tail and use enough water to reach the undercoat. Scrub in circular motions with your finger so that the shampoo reaches the undercoat. You can also do long strokes like a massage that your German Shepherd will surely enjoy. Thoroughly wash off your German Shepherd, and you may want to repeat this step to ensure that all the suds are removed from the undercoat and any crevices. If a residue is left and it dries up, this can cause skin irritation. This is the part where you get wet, as they shake off all the excess water. Rub him with a towel to dry off faster. Brush their coat well to make it shiny. And blow dry in the direction of hair growth, otherwise, blowing back and forth can lead to matting. German shepherds don't really need haircuts but if your dogs coat is getting out of hand then a light trim of their coat could help them in the warmer months. As puppies, they can start bathing as young as three weeks. An organic shampoo, or at the very least, a gentle shampoo will do. Harsher shampoos can strip their natural oils, or make their skin dry. Final Note Diet plays a big role too, in their physical appearance and health. Feeding your German Shepherd the proper foods and keeping them away from harmful ones will prevent them from getting any skin problems. Now you are better equipped to bathe your German Shepherd Treat bathing as a bonding moment between you and your dog, and he will love you for it. German Shepherd coat care procedures German Shepherds have a beautiful thick coat, requiring regular and thorough care. In the first place, it involves the correct selection of a full-fledged diet and various hygienic procedures. The owner of such a dog should know exactly what and when to do to ensure that the coat of the pet is properly cared for. Often German Shepherds tolerate water procedures and love to bathe if they were accustomed to it from an early age. Later on, an adult kept in an apartment should be bathed with special products two to four times a year: in autumn, spring and summer. In winter, the coat is sometimes cleaned with snow outside. Water procedures performed in winter can cause the dog to fall ill. If there is an urgent need to bathe the pet during this period, the room allocated for bathing should be well prepared and warmed up. If your dog gets dirty on a walk, wash him under the shower or use a wet towel to wipe his coat. If your pet is clearly attracted to water procedures in summer, you can shower him after walks. When keeping a Shepherd Dog in an apartment, you should wash it during the following periods: after shedding; 7 days before the treatment against parasites ticks, fleas, and others ; before the dog shows. If the pet is kept in an aviary, bathing is performed no more than three times a year. Small puppies should not be bathed several days before vaccination and during the day quarantine after vaccination. The first vaccinations are given quite early, at 6 weeks or 2 months of age. Bathing a puppy at 1 or 2 months is still too early. Try to communicate with the puppy calmly and gently, not frighten him with harsh motions. Allow him to settle in by sniffing and looking around in the bathtub. After that, you can start bathing your German Shepherd puppy. What you need for bathing at home Prepare in advance everything you may need for the procedure: First, provide the bottom of the tub with a non-slip surface — a cloth or rubber mat — to prevent your dog from slipping. Wear clothing suitable for this kind of procedure a waterproof apron. Do not use soap on your Shepherd. Prepare a bathing towel. Remember to take your pet for a proper walk outside before bathing. Otherwise, he will want to go for a walk again afterward and may get dirty or catch a cold. Prepare carefully and anticipate everything beforehand. Make sure the water temperature does not exceed degrees Celsius. Using a special shampoo and sponge, thoroughly soap his entire body, including his paws, belly, and neck. Rinse off the foam with your shower. Repeat if necessary. Wrap your puppy in a towel and get him out of the tub. If the coat is still partially wet, let the puppy shake it off and dry himself by running around the house. If the puppy is not afraid of loud noises, try drying the coat with a hairdryer. After bathing, Shepherd fur dries for about 3 hours. Try to bathe your pet in 10 minutes. Exclude the possibility of draughts in the room to avoid the risk of catching a cold. After washing, walks are allowed only after 3 hours. How to bathe a German Shepherd outdoors In the summer heat, you can bathe your German Shepherd puppy in an open pond every day, starting at the age of 4 months. If you take your pet to a river or lake, pay attention to the state of the body of water and the shore before bathing. Are there any sharp objects, shards of glass, or other trash visible? Such precautions will help avoid unwanted injuries and poisoning of your pet. After examining the area, let your dog off the leash and allow him to get acclimated to his new surroundings. German Shepherds are not timid, but each animal has its own personality traits. Swimming in a body of water is good for strengthening muscles and joints. Start by stepping into the water and calling out to your dog. Due to their high degree of trust in their owner, Shepherds are then eager to follow. Allow him to dry naturally, play and run with him. After sickness, it is better to wait about ten days after the pet has recovered before bathing. If the coat falls out or it is dull and broken, it indicates a disease or lack of vitamins in the animal. German Shepherds are divided into long-haired and short-haired according to the fur coat. Their coats need daily brushing. While brushing, dirt, dust, and dander are removed from the coat and skin. At the same time, skin diseases are effectively prevented, and blood circulation and metabolism in the pet are stimulated. The following tools are necessary for taking care of the coat: A frequent brush for the massage effect for long-haired — with long teeth, for short-haired — with short teeth. Metal comb: used to detangle fleece hair. Scrubbing brush: used during the seasonal shedding of the pet and for detangling the tangles. In brushing, it is necessary to release the brush from the clogged hair and dirt periodically. If your pet is calm, you can use a vacuum cleaner with a small brush attachment. After dry brushing, wet-clean the coat with a special mop, then dry the coat with a dry towel, and do not forget to wipe the eyes and ears with a wet cloth. There are special complex procedures designed to care for the fur and skin of animals, the so-called grooming. A bath should be a good thing, right? After all, baths keep humans away from dirt and bad odor, so you may think the same logic applies to dogs. However, you should not bathe your German Shepherd more often than necessary. German Shepherds have a double coat with natural oils that keep their skin healthy. This could lead to skin issues such as allergic reactions or dryness. Dogs with thick double coats and heavy shedders like the German Shepherd can be bathed every 3 months. This is because when they shed , the coat naturally removes dead skin cells and harmful bacteria. While bathing your German Shepherd is an essential part of their grooming and care, you should only do it to remove dirt and unpleasant odors. You should only bathe your German Shepherd every two to three months or as necessary. They should be bathed when they have accumulated mud or dirt on their skin or coat or the dog smells unpleasant. Regular bathing is unnecessary if your German Shepherd has a clean, shiny, and healthy coat. There are a few other factors that can affect how often you should bathe your GSD: 1. A monthly bath may be necessary if your GSD is extra active and often gets full of dirt. Some dogs are known for rolling around in fox poop; if this is your dog, then more frequent bathing will be on your list of doggy chores. Others like to jump in muddy puddles whenever they see one on a walk, like Willow, my German Shepherd. She likes to cool off in swampy areas or sludgy puddles, as shown in the photo below. My German Shepherd taking a mud bath! Your German Shepherd Has a Skin Condition You may need to bathe your dog regularly if they have a skin condition that requires treatment with a special shampoo. One antibiotic-controlled study found that bath therapy twice weekly with a chlorhexidine shampoo and spray was as effective as amoxicillin-clavulanic acid in treating dog pyoderma. Although these pests are a threat to doggos all year round, they are most active during the warmer months. In such cases, he may need even fewer baths than the recommended once every months. Nonetheless, many enjoy a paddle in a river or shallow lake or other water activities. Willow is not keen on swimming — I think her heavy double coat weighs her down. But she loves being in the river and finds it fun sticking her head in the water to find pebbles. My German Shepherd hunting for river pebbles! Your GSD Has a Skin Allergy German Shepherds with skin allergies typically have issues with their skin barrier epidermis , meaning their skin dries up more easily. Regularly bathing a dog with skin allergies using harsh shampoos can worsen the already compromised layer of skin, further aggravating the allergy. If you do need to keep your German Shepherd clean and spiffy, here are a few tips to keep in mind. Brush your GSD twice or thrice every week. Removing loose fur also takes away old skin oils and prevents dog odor. Do you want to know the grooming tools I swear by? Get your German Shepherd tired. If you use the treatment that you rub between the shoulders, you should wait 48 hours before bathing. For example, you can consult your vet on how often you should bathe your dog. After all, your vet is likely knowledgeable about dog skin types and any skin issues your dog may have. The oatmeal and aloe mixture works well with sensitive skin. Additionally, the shampoo is manufactured in U. German Shepherd puppies should not be bathed with shampoo until they are at least 3 months old. Before then, just use warm water and a cloth or wash rag. At 3 months, you should use a good quality shampoo and conditioner made for dogs and pH balanced to avoid skin irritation. Do German Shepherds Like Baths? Most German Shepherds do not enjoy baths. They find being confined and scrubbed in the bathtub an entirely different experience from splashing around in a river which they enjoy. Some dogs are nervous around water, so reassure your pet, use a calm voice and offer high-quality treats. Long-haired German Shepherds should be bathed 3 or 4 times per year. Their bathing frequency is no different from the short coat variety. Too many baths will remove the natural oils that are present in their coat which can result in their skin becoming dry and inflamed. Final Thoughts How often you should bathe your German Shepherd depends on a few factors. In general, you should bathe your GSD whenever they get dirty or smelly. If you must have a regular bathing routine for your dog and they have healthy skin, you can bathe them once every two to three months. If you doubt how often you should bathe your GSD, ask your veterinarian. Your vet may recommend that you bathe your dog more or less than the recommended once every two to three months. Related Posts You May Like:. Health As a German Shepherd owner, you probably know all of the joys of having one of these amazing dogs. In order to keep your dog happy and healthy, there are some things involved that may not be as fun as playing fetch with Fido. Grooming your German Shepherd could be one of those things depending on how cooperative your GSD is during the process. In this short guide, we will give you advice on how often you should bathe a German Shepherd as well as other grooming tips. Bathing your dog is not like bathing your child. This is the ideal amount of bathing for your dog, but there are other factors that can come into play. Personally, I bathe Allie once every weeks. Of course, if your dog goes outside often and gets really dirty, you may want to bathe him before he can track that dirt all over your home. If your German Shepherd stinks, you definitely want to give your dog a bath. You should brush your German Shepherd a couple of times a week. The difficulty of bathing your German Shepherd will largely depend on whether your dog is cooperative or not. Some dogs may not like baths at first so you will be busy trying to keep them still or trying to keep them from running away from the bath. The good news is that if you are patient and reassuring, your dog will eventually get used to it. I found that getting Allie used to baths as a puppy helped tremendously so now I am not fighting with 70 pounds of Shepherd for every bath. You will want to do the head last. Apply shampoo and begin to lather your GSD all over starting from their neck and working your way down. You can either use your fingers or use a sponge if you want to really rub the shampoo in. I just use my fingers. Once you are finished, dry your dog thoroughly with the towels. Is Dog Teeth Cleaning Necessary? You may have to work with your dog to get them comfortable with getting their teeth cleaned. Make sure you use toothpaste for dogs, not toothpaste for humans. Try putting a tiny amount of toothpaste on each tooth before you start brushing just to relax your dog. Once your dog is relaxed, brush the teeth in a circular motion, making sure you brush near the gum lines. Try and be thorough but be gentle. This is one of the things I wish I did more when Allie was a puppy. Normally, her mouth is wide open, but when the toothbrush comes out her mouth closes up like a clam. Handle any broken or split nails immediately. You will want to use a dog nail clipper not human nail clippers. You can buy special ear wax drops from your vet. Your dog will shake out the remaining liquid by shaking its head. Final Thoughts Keeping your German Shepherd properly groomed goes a long way in keeping your dog healthy. A healthy dog is a happy dog! If you are ever in doubt about grooming your dog, you can seek out professional help. There are many great dog groomers available and your vet can also give you good tips. The rest of the time, proper grooming can keep them clean and healthy. Shedding For The Season Dogs have two different types of coats. Some have hair that continually grows. Others have fur that sheds. German Shepherd Dogs have a double coat of fur. According to Dog. The top layer also known as the primary layer serves to protect the dog from light injury and add additional insulation from temperature. Throughout the year, some of this fur detaches from the body sheds , in order for new growth to come in. German Shepherd Dogs go through two big shedding cycles every year to adapt to the coming season. You will also notice that there is more fur around the house than normal. The best way to keep up with their shedding is daily brushing with a de-shedding brush or comb. You will want to make sure you are getting both the top layer and undercoat when doing this. Use positive techniques and stay consistent with this daily routine. After some time, this can become a great bonding experience. Global K9 Protection Services , a company that specializes in training Shepherds, recommends not bathing GSDs too often to avoid drying out their skin. Dry skin can lead to itchiness, redness, and hot spots that they can start chewing. If they walk on pavement or gravel often, their nails may get ground down from those surfaces. The goal is to cut the nails down without hitting the nerve in the nail. This can lead to foot and joint issues later on. When clipping their nails, high praise in a calm environment will give you the best results for them to get through it in the most positive way. They need it but do not want you to put anything in there. The best way to do this is to clean the outer ear and use ear drops designed for dogs. As they shake their heads, it will remove the excess ear wax and dirt. Speak to your veterinarian about which product to choose. Some dog treats have plaque removing properties to them. Another way is to brush their teeth around three times a week. Make sure you use toothpaste made for dogs. The toothpaste made for humans can be toxic to dogs. Remember, if it goes in their mouth, they will swallow it. Let them get used to the warm water. The water level should not be more than elbow high for them. Work from their bottom and move forward, saving their head for last. They are very sensitive to having their faces handled. When scrubbing them, use circular motions with your fingers to get through the undercoat. You can also use long strokes in a massage-like way. These two methods can calm them down. Who does not like a massage? Make sure you rinse often and repeatedly to make sure that all of the soap has been cleaned off. Dried residue can create irritation on their skin. Have at least towels ready to dry them off. If you are going to use a hairdryer, do not focus on one spot for too long, to avoid making one spot too hot for them. Use products that are designed specifically for dogs. Avoid products that use artificial chemicals. Products that use natural ingredients and have simple formulas are just as effective. Going With The Pros Using a professional dog groomer has advantages. They have the proper equipment, products, and skills to groom your German Shepherd Dog. Before you go online and choose the first one you see, both PetMD and the AKC have a few recommendations on how to choose the right groomer. Grooming program , that can assure you the groomer is of the highest quality. You will also want to make sure they are caring for your dog well with their kennels and that their staff is trained for any emergencies. Finally, make sure you understand all the costs that come with their services. Your dog may never look forward to it, but when it is time to take a bath, using positive training techniques can be the best approach to make it a choreless event. Make sure you use the proper shampoos and keep up with their grooming requirements. If you do need further advice, see the help of a certified trainer in your area. In such cases, you will have to bathe the dog more frequently than usual, using an antibacterial and antifungal dog shampoo. They target the effects of different skin conditions and help clear them up so your German Shepherd can be free from symptoms like itching or hotspots and get their shiny coat back.

Photo from: cologne. Both of these breeds are working dogs, so there is a high chance your pup will be a working canine, as well. The mixed-pup of Cane Corso and Boerboel will be a large dog, regardless of whose genes it inherits, considering that Cane Corsos grow up to lbs, while Boerboels might weigh up to an impressive lbs. The same goes for their height as the average size of both dog breeds is about 26 in, so you can expect your Cane Boerboel to be anywhere from 24 to 27 in. Cane Corsos usually sport colors such as brindle, black, fawn, gray, red, fawn, and chestnut, while Boerboels come in similar shades with the addition of cream and tawny hues. There is a small risk of your mixed pup showing signs of hostility, as neither Boerboels nor Cane Corsos are particularly aggressive , although they might be quite protective of their owners and property. Pit Bulls are medium-sized canines, while Boerboels belong to the giant type of doggos, so it cannot be said with certainty which size their crossbreed will have when they become adults. Keep in mind that both of these dog breeds require a high level of physical activity, so you will have to take your hybrid pup outside at least once a day, not only for a long walk but also for other outdoor activities, too. Boerboel Bernard Boerboel And Saint Bernard Cross These two purebred canines share quite a few similarities, as they both belong to the working breeds of canines. Another resemblance between these canines is their size. Bernards grow up to 28 in and weigh up to lbs , just like Boerboels, so you can definitely expect to get a big hybrid dog. Bernards include white, black, and tricolor hues and patterns. Saint Bernards are known as heavy shedders, while Boerboels are moderate ones. The mixed-breed puppy might be a happy but stubborn pup, so you will need to train it from an early age. A powerful hybrid that will be loyal and protective of you as its owner and the property it lives on. American Bulldogs rarely weigh over lbs, but when it comes to height, it can be anywhere from 22 to 28 in. According to these parameters, your mixed-breed canine might end up being a slimmer version of Boerboels or a more heavy-weight version of an American Bulldog. The coat of the Bulldog is straightforwardly colored in white, black, fawn, or brown hues, with a possible combination of these shades, but without traces of other hues. Wire Foxy Boerboel Boerboel And Wire Fox Terrier This is a very interesting combination of two breeds that seem not to have anything in common at first glance, but get ready to be surprised. A Wire Fox Terrier has a long muzzle that looks even longer because of the beard that is placed around the nose and mouth. The Wire Foxy Boerboel crossbreed can be colored in brownish-red and cream shades or a combination of white and black, white and tan, as well as in tricolor patterns of white, black, and tan. Wire Foxes are just as intelligent as Boers, which makes their hybrid easy to train as well. When you mix them with energetic and dominant Boerboels, you can expect either a strong and independent pup or a gentle doggie that will act like a big lap dog. Boerboels are much bigger than Shar Peis, as the latter usually weigh up to 55 lbs and grow up to 20 in at most. Therefore, your designer dog can be anywhere from a medium to a large-sized pooch. Shar Peis have a wider range of coat shades and can be found in black, apricot, fawn, blue, cream, red, and brown hues. If we take that into consideration, your Boerboel Pei might be colored in a variety of colors, from black to blue. Their mixed-breed puppy might either turn out to be a loving and devoted doggie, or a protective watchdog. Therefore, no matter which breed has more dominant genes, their mixed breed offspring will only shed in small amounts. According to the personality of both purebred parents, the Smooth Foxy Boerboel will become an affectionate, lovable, and playful pup, but with a dose of alertness and stubbornness. Still, they will be easy to train, but only if you provide them with proper training from early puppyhood. The main reason for this is the fact that both male and female Labs are one of the most popular family dog breeds that are present in the house of many dog lovers, especially those who prefer gentle and kind canines of a larger size. Unfortunately, even though this seems like an excellent crossbreed, I have to say that both of these breeds are prone to health issues regarding their size, such as hip dysplasia , obesity , and elbow dysplasia. Both of these dogs can be friendly but personalities differ, so you never know. The Boerboel is known for being confident, dominant, and territorial. All dogs need proper socialization and that will be a big factor in how they interact with others. What does this mixed breed look and act like? Is it more like the Boerboel or the Labrador Retriever? Those are the questions we will try and answer below. Continue reading below to see pictures, videos, and learn more about the beautiful Boerboel Labrador Retriever Mix. While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue, we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their Boerboel Labrador Retriever Mix puppy. That is, if they have any Boerboel Labrador Retriever Mix puppies for sale. If you are interested in helping animal rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer donates to help feed shelter animals. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. If you have a few minutes, please sign our petition to stop puppy mills. Boerboel History The Boerboel is a farm dog, native to South Africa, who does well guarding livestock and even cats. She is a fierce protectors and is almost always aware of the presence of wild, predatory animals and prepared to defend her family. A well socialized dog is usually pretty good with all people. A Boerboel is a loving creature who, when properly socialized, comes to enjoy the family, its children, and even meeting new people. When properly socialized and trained she can have a nice temperament. Introducing her to strangers is a good way to socialize you Boerboel. It is not a real common breed, but there are breeders out there that will have south african purebred boerboel puppies for sale. However, we recommend that you look and find a boerboel rescue in your area. The rescue might even have black or brindle boerboel puppies, you never know. Boerboels are considered rare in the U. Legend has it that after the conquest of Egypt, Assyrian dogs spread to the rest of Africa and to other parts of the world. Two new breeds resulted: the hound and the mastiff. The Boerboel -- hardy, athletic and muscular, with a protective instinct -- fell into the mastiff offshoot of the ancient African breed. The Boerboel was developed to work. In , the De Beers family brought several of the Bull Mastiff type dogs to South Africa to guard their diamond mines, a task they were more than suited for. Of these, just 72 dogs were considered close to the ancient dog and were registered for breeding. There are many different types and colors, the white, brindle, black, blue among others. Labrador Retriever History Labrador Retriever, also called a Lab, is a retriever-gun dog—hence the name. The Labrador is one of the most popular dog breeds in not only the United States but in the United Kingdom as well. This breed is also frequently trained as a disability assistance animal and are still prized as a sporting and hunting dog to this day. Known for being a loving, loyal and smart breed, the Labrador Retriever is a strong choice among families for the types of dog to bring home. They are great with kids and love to play as much as they can, so going on family adventures is just as exciting for them as it is for the family. The ancestors of the Labrador Retriever—a St. At the same time, over in Canada, the St. In the s, many ancestors of the breed were imported from Newfoundland to Europe to be used for gundogs. Moving forward to s, the 3rd Earl of Malmesbury, the 6th Duke of Buccleuch and the 12th Earl of Home came together to breed what is now the modern Labrador Retriever. In terms of the history of the subtypes of the Labrador Retriever, there is a Yellow and a Chocolate option for this breed. The first Yellow Labrador Retriever was born in while the first Chocolate Labrador Retrievers were established in the s. There is also a black Labrador Retriever.

F2 — Cross between two F1 Labradoodles: This breed is almost the same as F1, more likely to shed hairs, and hence, not much suitable for allergetic people. F3 — Cross between two F2 Labradoodles. Multi-generation — Like the common crossbreed Australian Labradoodles, this is a cross between two F3 or higher generation Labradoodles. Temperament and Behavior This inherently intelligent, compassionate and tolerant dog, good with children and other pets, apt for an apartment life, need less space to live. They love water, playing in the bathtub or bathroom, engaging in water sports, and need some good training from puppyhood. Being a loyal, affectionate and friendly breed, they love playing with their owner and the family, making an ideal family pet, interacting with people of all ages and being adaptable to any setting. Although some first generation labradoodles would need even more exercise to stay fit. Grooming Be sure brushing them daily to avoid coat-entangling and shedding, which depends upon their bloodlines. Also, clean their ears with a pH-balanced ear cleaner to avoid general infections. Clean their eyes with a wet cloth for discharges. Health Problems This generally-healthy breed might face some common dog diseases like eye discharges, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, epilepsy, diabetes mellitus, progressive retinal atrophy PRA and hypothyroidism. Take them to a vet from time to time for general check-ups. Training The miniature labradoodle can make an excellent pet for the first-time owners. In order to ensure brisk pick-up of tricks and training effectively, train these intelligent dogs to socialize with children, other people, strangers and pets from their puppy days. The act of being trained runs in their veins, since they are ever-ready to please their owners. You can employ a professional trainer for the purpose to avoid probable injures for their exuberant boisterousness. Feeding A well-nutritioned dog is less prone to allergies, and that ensures a longer life span as also a less poop to clean up. Some vets do prefer barf foods, while others are against it. However, in general, dehydrated, processed canned food is highly recommended. Also, add cheese in or cottage cheese and yogurt. You can as well go for powdered greens, fresh veggies frequently. This can been pureed in a food processor or juicer, But fr a better nutrition, add the pulp and the juice back together. Interesting Facts In , Dr. The miniature labradoodles have even made its place quite much in popular culture, even being included in the Oxford Dictionary by creating a new word placement for scrabble gamers. By Chris Labradoodles are amazing dogs, and Labradoodle colors are just as interesting! Labradoodles come in many different shapes, sizes, and coat shades. Labradoodle Images — our favorite Labradoodle photographs Some Labradoodles have black coats with white spots on their chest or paws. Others have brown coats with golden highlights around their eyes. But no matter what color labradoodle you have, they all make great companions for all! A chocolate medium Labradoodle enjoying a park visit Labradoodles with chocolate coats are such pretty dogs! There is a Labradoodle with a chocolate coat that lives in my neighborhood pictured above on a walk with my Labradoodle Max that I see every day walking all over the place. When he sees me, he actually jumps up on me and starts licking my face! He is a medium-sized Labradoodle dog. There are three sizes of Labradoodles, standard, medium, and miniature. Occasionally you will find a LAbradoodle that does not take to the water — but they are few and far between. The golden-brown coat of a tan Labradoodle enjoying the beach Labradoodles are more than just pets, they become part of our family. Labradoodles are friendly, social animals that love to play and run around with their human friends. Some Labradoodles like to be outdoors, and you will find them rolling in the grass, chasing butterflies, or just plain relaxing. This wavy coat white Labradoodle has very long hair. White coat Labradoodles can get pretty stained and dirty. White Labradoodles are especially prone to this. My labradoodle gets dirt all over his coat after she plays outside! Luckily basic grooming and shampoo do the trick. This rich black coat is a fairly common Labradoodle shade. Black Labradoodle puppies normally have black eyes too see the photo above. This actually makes it quite difficult to capture photographs of them. Labradoodles are loyal and bond closely with their primary family members Labradoodles are amazing friends! Australian Labradoodles are a different breed the Labradoodles although similar! Labradoodles come in all shapes and sizes. Some Labradoodles are thin while others are more stocky. A Red Miniature Labradoodle looks happy in the studio. Friendly, energetic, playful, social, cuddly, smart. AKA — the Labradoodle. Two Labradoodles sniff each other out at a dog park. Labradoodles get on well with other dogs. It is important to introduce your puppy to other dogs as soon as possible. If you live in a city, this will be easy because there will be lots of dogs everywhere. You can find out about off-leash dog parks and dog walking groups in your area and try going along to meet the Labradoodle owners and their Labradoodle friends. This can be done in a professional setting, but many owners prefer to take the job on themselves at home. You will need a Labradoodle-specific brush, labradoodle shampoo, scissors, and nail trimmers. Before you start brushing your Labradoodle put, it in a comfortable position in front of you on the floor or sitting on your lap. Brush their fur from head to tail with a Labradoodle-specific brush picking up any tangles as you go. Labradoodle playing in a water fountain. What a way to cool off on a warm day! Even though they have long coats, Labradoodles can still get sunburn or suffer from sun damage. Give them plenty of opportunities to cool off away from the sun. A Parti Labradoodle in this cause black and white Some Labradoodle will have two shades in their coats. Black and white two-shade Labradoodles are common. A Labradoodle dog running in the snow. Labradoodles love running through the snow, playing with their family, rolling around in the white stuff, barking at the sound of someone nearby, or just relaxing. Labradoodles are also found in many climates. The Labradoodles can be found living on islands such as Hawaii or Australia or on the cold mountainsides of Europe. It will help make bath time easier for life. It can even save money because some Labradoodles shed a lot of hair and need to be groomed more often and DIY grooming saves a bunch. A Labradoodle sits on a couch next to a Pomeranian. Non-shedding small dogs are popular. So are shedding small dogs like Boxers, Bulldogs, Pomeranians, and more A rich Apricot coat Labradoodle at the groomer. Miniature Labradoodles Images This Apricot Mini Labradoodle is looking up at the camera, because he thinks he might get a treat he did. My Labradoodle Max wearing his party hat. POV: You are walking my Labradoodle Max wearing his usual harness Labradoodle Max looks at a toilet paper wall obstacle Labradoodle Max enjoys a cuddle in a towel after a shower and bath Giving a labradoodle puppy a bath can be challenging. Bath time is much easier if Labradoodles are groomed early on. Labradoodles, like other dogs, need to be brushed often. A non-shedding dog coat still needs regular brushing, even when it is cut short like the photo above we shaved our Labradoodle Max before a beach holiday to help prevent coat knotting with daily swims. Before taking a puppy to the beach be sure you have a plan, and safety in mind. My Miniature Labradoodle Max wearing a stylish raincoat Dogs rarely need raincoats. We got one just because it looks great. It does help during walks in cold rain or when there is wind and I am worried that Max will get a chill. An Apricot Mini Labradoodle my puppy Max! Labradoodles will often hang out with their tongues out. A Red Labradoodle enjoying time in the snow. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. January 23, 0 Comments WorldAnimalFoundation. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. These cute little designer dogs can be great family pets and good companions for work-at-home people. They were bred for those who loved the standard Labradoodle but wanted something smaller. This crossbreed is a popular choice for both experienced and new dog owners because of their calm temperament. They get along with other people and dogs and are easy to train. They can be stubborn, but they are very reward-driven. Even someone with allergies can potentially keep this dog. The idea originally started when breeders bred purebred Labrador Retrievers and standard Poodles to make more hypoallergenic dog breeds with Labrador friendliness and intelligence, creating the standard Labradoodle. But as wonderful as Labradoodles are, they can get pretty huge. Both the Labrador and the standard-sized Poodle are pretty big. So reputable breeders started breeding the purebred Labrador Retriever with the purebred Miniature Poodle to make a smaller version: the Mini Labradoodle. These cute little dogs are known for having big personalities despite their smaller bodies. They love their humans and can sometimes be protective of them. They also love running around and playing. Mini Labradoodles are highly intelligent, like their parents, and are very easy to train. They combine the loyalty, intelligence, and easy trainability of the Labrador with the low-shedding, more allergy-friendly coat of the Standard Poodle and Mini Poodle. Vital Statistics Height: inches, highly dependent on parents Weight: pounds, highly dependent on parents Average lifespan: years Energy level: High energy and needs lots of exercise Trainability: Highly intelligent dogs and easily trainable Shedding: Low shedder, high grooming needs History of the Mini Labradoodle Miniature Labradoodles are a relatively new crossbreed. They are believed to have been bred in Australia in the s when a breeder made the first successful cross of a Labrador Retriever and a Mini Poodle. And so, a reputable breeder wanted to mix the Labrador Retriever with a breed having a non-shedding coat. The standard Poodle was the perfect candidate. Both standard Labradoodles and Miniature Labradoodles came along from this need. First, the standard Labradoodle came along. Standard Labradoodles were popular but much too big for some people. So then the Lab was mixed with the Mini Poodle to make a smaller pup. Generally needs .You should have a good decade or so before you have to worry about health problems related to aging. Some dogs may live longer or shorter lives depending on how healthy they are. Lifestyle management can help maximize the time you have with your dog. Be on the lookout for health issues potentially passed down from the parents. Size Miniature Labradoodles are meant to be smaller versions of the Labradoodle. The designer dog mixes the traits of Labrador Retrievers and Toy Poodles to make a smaller dog. Smaller individuals may be around 14 inches tall. That said, the exact size may depend on the characteristics of the parents. These dogs still come from a fairly big breed. Larger individuals may be closer to 24 inches tall. It can be difficult to determine how big a Mini Labradoodle puppy will get until they grow. Weight Smaller Mini Labradoodles may weigh around 10 pounds or more. Again, they may be bigger and heavier depending on the genes inherited from their Lab and Mini Poodle parents. Larger individuals may weigh up to 30 pounds. Coat The Mini Labradoodle is meant to have the Poodle coat, a low-shedding coat that is allergy-friendly. The coat type and color can vary from individual to individual based on the genes of the Poodle parent or Labrador parent. Some coats may have a wool texture, coming from their Poodle genes. These coats require a lot of grooming. Other coats may be a soft, fleece texture. It may be wavy or curly. Some individuals may also have a hairy, straight coat closer to that of Labrador Retrievers rather than a Poodle coat. Color Mini Labradoodles can come in many colors. They may also be single-colored or multi-colored. It depends on the genes they inherit from their very different-looking parents. Mini Labradoodle Temperament and Personality Mini Labradoodles are believed to be the perfect family pet and companion because of their family-friendly characteristics. They are great with kids and other animals and are all-around easy to get along with. That said, they can also be protective of their family. Miniature Labradoodles can get lonely easily, and they do not like being left alone for too long. Leaving them alone for eight hours or more a day may lead to depression, separation anxiety, and the destruction of your furniture. As adorable and friendly as they are, they may not be the best for families that are out of the house all day. As tempting as it can be, avoid overfeeding your Mini Labradoodle with high-fat treats, no matter how much they beg. Like their parent breed, the Labrador, they can get overweight if overfed. Also, keep their age in mind; puppies and senior dogs need different kibbles. Mini Labradoodles and any breed should be kept on a puppy-based kibble until they are a year old to ensure they get the nutrients needed to grow properly. Seniors, meanwhile, may need senior food that helps them get the most nutrients out of their food. As they age, some dogs have trouble getting the nutrients they need from normal kibble and lose weight at an alarming rate. Family Compatibility Mini Labradoodles are great family dogs because of their friendliness. They can get along great with families and other pets. These dogs are also very playful and love family interaction. You can potentially take your Mini Labradoodle on hikes, trips, or errands without too much trouble. Children should also be taught not to be too rough with them, no matter how easygoing they are. No jumping on them, pulling their tails or ears, or chewing on them. Even the gentlest dogs have limits. Mini Labradoodles can get lonely easily and even depressed if left alone for too long. That said, they can suffer from some health conditions passed down from their parent breeds. Some health concerns these dogs may be at risk of are hip dysplasia, obesity, and bloat. Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip develops incorrectly as a puppy, causing problems later on. It can cause pain and dysfunction as the dog grows. Over time it can cause problems like arthritis and mobility issues. Obesity is a common problem among Labradors that can be passed down to their Mini Labradoodle children. Therefore, avoiding high-calorie treats and overfeeding them too much is best. Obesity can cause a range of other health problems in the future, like arthritis or joint pain. This is a hereditary disease passed down from Labradoodle parents. Mini Labradoodle puppies are more susceptible if their parents had it. Do not breed your Mini Labradoodle for Mini Labradoodle puppies if they have this disease. Exercise-induced collapse occurs when a dog overexerts itself while exercising. This particular problem is more common among Mini Labradoodles, so keep an eye on them when running around. This can be life-threatening. While your Miniature Labradoodle is running around and exercising, watch for symptoms like a lack of coordination, muscle weakness, or other signs of exhaustion. Make sure they stop and take a break if they seem to be tiring themselves out. Owners should also be careful of diseases like hypothyroidism. In addition, you should clean their ears periodically to avoid ear infections. Mini Labradoodles need consistent grooming and coat care to keep their fur from matting and getting messy. They need to be groomed multiple times a week, at the least. Daily brushing is recommended if possible. These dogs are incredibly active, coming from two very active breeds. They need a good minutes of exercise a day. They enjoy running and need to be able to burn off all that energy. Mini Labradoodle Training The Miniature Labradoodle is considered very easy to train, even for new dog owners. When all else fails, you can pull out a bag of dog treats to get their attention. You should start training early to avoid behavior problems later on. Keep a bag of low-calorie treats handy during the early days of training. Praise good behavior with a treat as soon as it shows desirable behavior. If your Miniature Labradoodle does something wrong, do not lash out at them, as it may worsen things. Punishments like hitting may lead to fear or aggression that would not have existed without it. Instead, redirect them to the right behavior and then reward them. These little guys can be stubborn and set in their ways if you wait too long. They love their humans, but they can also be a bit protective of them. Teaching your Mini Labradoodle puppy early on that other people and animals are safe is a good way to avoid any future problems like growling or lashing out at strangers. Trust me; you do not want to wait until your dog starts getting nervous about new people and animals to start socializing them. Once they start getting antisocial, it gets harder to mingle them. So go ahead and start taking them out and letting strangers give them treats and pets. Do Mini Labradoodles Bark a Lot? Miniature Labradoodles are not known for barking a lot. Depending on the individual, they may occasionally bark at the door or bark while playing. This breed is generally seen as a moderate barker. Any excessive barking can usually be addressed through positive training by rewarding quiet behavior. They may get into trouble and chew things up out of frustration or just get depressed to the point of illness. Never leave a young Mini Labradoodle puppy alone. They may get into something and get themselves hurt. Is the Mini Labradoodle Hypoallergenic? The non-shedding coat of the Miniature Labradoodle is more allergy-friendly than most. They can also be a good choice for those with concerns about allergies. These small to medium designer dogs are intelligent, loyal, and love pleasing their humans, much like their parent breeds. Mini Labradoodles also require consistent attention and will get lonely if you leave them alone for too long. Make sure you have the means to care for any dog you decide to get. Kelly Smeby Kelly Smeby is a freelance writer specializing in pets and animals. She has written several articles about pet health, training, and behavior. Kelly has lived with many types of animals since early childhood. Kelly has also lived with multiple cats, birds, and fish. Kelly currently lives in Florida with a two-year-old Pekingese and a cat and continues to learn new things from them every day. She enjoys learning even more about animal health and behavior and sharing that knowledge with others through writing. She has a strong background in research, business, and writing from her time in college. Kelly hopes to use her experience to help other pet owners who need help understanding their dogs, cats, or other pets. She hopes her work will help promote better understanding between humans and animals. Leave a comment Your email address will not be published. Post Comment. In terms of the coat texture, your Labradoodle can have a hair, fleece or wool coat. This means that they can be fluffy, curly or straight haired dogs. Often the coat type will not be evident until the dog is a few months old. If you are choosing a breed purely based on coat type and maintenance, the miniature Labradoodle may not be the best pick for you. Allergy Friendly Qualities of the Mini Labradoodle The miniature Labradoodle breed is considered to be a hypoallergenic dog. This is due to the fact that the Poodle breed is also hypoallergenic. If you are an allergy suffer, or have a family member who is, find out more information on why these dogs are classed as hypoallergenic here. Temperament Just like us humans, Labradoodles can differ in temperament from dog to dog. The reality is, the temperament of your dog is a direct result of their upbringing. The miniature Labradoodle breed is known for being: Playful, fun and silly Friendly to all those welcomed into the home Like the outdoors and need regular exercise Energetic Loves to retrieve items Affectionate and loyal Labradoodles vary in personality and looks depending on which parent they take after. Labradoodles are quite intelligent dogs and with proper training they can almost do anything you ask of them! Their ability to learn makes them a great choice of companion dogs for those with disabilities such as autism and sight problems. When purchasing your forever friend a miniature Labradoodle never attempt to cut costs. Purchasing from a reputable miniature Labradoodle breeder is the key to ensuring your puppy will live into adulthood with minor to no health issues. Breeders that are offering these designer dogs on the cheaper end of the scale may be cutting costs by not having the proper health testing completed. While this may be slightly more than some other cross breeds, remember you are purchasing a furry friend who can potentially live into their late teens. This amount of money is a small price to pay to ensure you are purchasing a puppy from a reputable breeder. Never purchase a miniature Labradoodle from a puppy farm. Genuine mini Labradoodle breeder should be able to supply you with paperwork stating the bloodlines of the puppy. Miniature Labradoodles will require between one and a half to two cups of dry food a day. They will also require adequate bedding and exercise. Where can I Purchase a Mini Labradoodle? Only purchase a miniature Labradoodle from a recognized and responsible breeder. Below you can find a number of miniature Labradoodles breeders located in Australia or the United States:. History Mini Labradoodles are the friendliest of dogs. They are fun, easygoing, and gentle. Mini Labradoodles enjoy canine games like chase, fetch, and Frisbee, and thrive on cuddles and love. Energetic, friendly, and full of life, the Mini Labradoodles make wonderful jogging and hiking companions. They are known to enjoy a good swim, a long stroll, and are very fond of adventures. The Mini Labradoodle puppies are happy, energetic, and bright bundles of joy. They are loving and eager to please, love to play and cuddle, and are excellent training students. A cross between Labrador Retrievers and Mini or Toy Poodles, the Mini Labradoodle may take after one parent breed or the other in appearance or they may have their own unique look with an added bonus of a hypoallergenic coat. The charming Mini Labradoodle has a compact, small sized, well-proportioned body, sparkly expressive eyes eyes and nose color may vary based on coat color , endearing floppy ears, and a gorgeous hypoallergenic, low shedding coat. The Mini Labradoodle coat can vary in texture from straight to wavy or curly, in length from short to long, and it can come in a variety of colors such as: white, black, brown, chocolate, cream, golden, silver, gray, red, apricot or tan. Though it is gorgeous either way, the Mini Labradoodle coat can vary quite a bit in texture and length depending on which side of the family the Mini Labradoodle takes after — the Labrador parent breed or the Mini Poodle breed. The Miniature Labradoodle is medium to small in stature the Mini Labradoodle stature depends on the generation category it belongs to: the F1 Mini Labradoodle is medium to small in stature, the F1B Mini Labradoodle is small in stature and the F2 Mini Labradoodle is the smallest of the three with an average weight between 16 to 25 pounds and an average height between 14 to 17 inches. Their lack of aggression, animated personality, and friendly nature has made them one of the most popular and sought-after designer Doodle Breeds. With a positive attitude, a kind gentle behavior, an intuitive, affectionate, and highly devoted nature, the Mini Labradoodle has an amazing reputation as a therapy and guide dog and is known to be excellent with children of all ages. Mini Labradoodle puppies are bright, happy, and full of energy little fluffballs. They have a great curiosity and are fast learners. They are loving and friendly, and they greet every stranger with a tail wiggle and a kiss. The Mini Labradoodles are joyful, animated, and adventurous little dogs. Although Mini Labradoodles are attention seeking pups who crave affection and adore being cuddled and spoiled, they are not overly dependent and are more than happy to entertain them - charming little - selves with a canine chew toy or a ball when no one is around. These two fur-babies are playful, loving, smart, and a delightful treat for pet parents and kids. Cuddles and dog games are their passion and they are known to be quite loyal to their humans. Whether you want to adopt a puppy for snuggles, affection, Poodle Mixes An Introduction To Doodles Poodle mixes, or doodles as some endearingly call them, are crossbreeds between a purebred Poodle and another purebred dog from a different breed. To give a few examples, Goldendoodles, Cavapoos, and Poochons are all Poodles mixes. They have a Poodle parent and a parent from a different breed. What makes Poodle mixes so special is a subject that we could talk about for hours. But to simplify things, these dogs are unique, friendly, Care Grooming Mini Labradoodles have moderate grooming needs. Their coats need a daily brush in order to avoid tangles and matting. Their eyes and ears should be checked and cleaned regularly, and their nails trimmed every few months. It is also recommended to take the Mini Labradoodle to a professional groomer for a dental checkup every few months. They love every fun outdoor activity there is as well as canine games and sports. They enjoy long walks, jogs, runs, swims, and hikes. Mini Labradoodles need an average of 60 minutes of daily exercise both indoors and outdoors. A few walks per day, or a long active walk will be enough to keep them fit, happy, and healthy. It is also beneficial to exercise their minds with games and puzzles. To understand when it's safe for your puppy to explore the outdoors, read our guide on When Can Puppies Go Outside Health Mini Labradoodle dogs are a healthy breed, and this is particularly true for f1 Mini Labradoodle puppies who benefit from hybrid vigor. Neither Poodles nor Labradors are sickly dog breeds. The health issues that can affect Mini Labradoodles are few and far between. These include hip and elbow dysplasia, cataracts, allergies, ear infections, and tooth decay. Lifespan The Miniature Labradoodle has an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years, although it is not uncommon for these dogs to live longer. One of their parent breeds, the Miniature Poodle, is known to live for close to 21 years in some cases. Given they are fed and raised properly, Mini Goldendoodles can live well into their teen years. Training Mini Labradoodles are intelligent dogs. They are easy to train, have eager to please personalities, and they love the attention that comes with training them. They are known to pick up on tricks quickly and can take on more advanced tasks in obedience training. They respond well to treat based motivation and positive reinforcement. Mini Labradoodles are highly sociable dogs. Training them should be effortless as they are naturally open and accepting of new people, places, and pets. Their friendly disposition and curious nature will prevent any shyness when exploring new places. Mini Labradoodles are independent dogs. They do well when they are left alone and are not generally prone to separation anxiety like most dogs are. They are not overly vocal, and they spend their time napping or playing with canine toys when they are home alone. Their sweet loving nature, their keen intelligence and intuition, their fun and playful personality and their hypoallergenic coats have made the Miniature Labradoodles incredibly popular since they took their first paw steps. With an instant rise in popularity across the world and an impressive number of admirers, the Mini Labradoodle would spread out through three generations: A first-generation Mini Labradoodle, known as an F1 Mini Labradoodle, is when a puppy has a purebred Labrador retriever parent and a purebred Mini Poodle parent. Although the Mini Labradoodle breed is quite new, and without much history, we can take a look back at the journey of the Standard Labradoodle ancestor in order to better understand the designer Doodle Breed. The Standard Labradoodle, a cross between a purebred Labrador retriever and a purebred Standard Poodle, was first introduced to the world in the s by Australian breeders — members of the Royal Dogs Association of Australia. Needless to say, the breeders achieved their goal and the new Labradoodle breed was a success — the breed spread across Europe and the United States in just a few decades and their popularity skyrocketed. The Labradoodle was seen as such a wondrous achievement that the breed enthusiasts began crossing a purebred Labrador retriever with a purebred Miniature Poodle in hopes of creating a smaller version of the Labradoodle. The Labradoodle was carefully defined in time and it now comes in three size variations: The Standard Labradoodle — with an average weight between 50 and 60 pounds and an average height between 21 to 24 inches The Medium Labradoodle — with an average weight between 30 and 45 pounds and an average height between 17 to 20 inches The Miniature Labradoodle — with an average weight between 16 and 25 pounds and an average height between 14 to 17 inches For a colorful exploration of Poodle mixes, dive into our Mini Goldendoodle Colors Guide Mini Labradoodle.

According to the German Shepherd Dog Club of America the coat color may vary although strong rich colors are preferred. Pale, washed-out off-colors and blues or livers are serious faults. A white dog must be disqualified. Black and Tan and Sable are seen mostly in Working Lines. Solid black dog with classic recessive black genetics is typically a working line, there are however, Solid Black dogs with dominant black genetics seen in Show line. This would be the most common color of this breed. Most of the time this is the type of dog that you would see in the movies or television or even the advertising of this breed. I would venture to say that b-tmore dogs of this color than any other color of this breed does the most winning in the conformation shows. In fact some judges have a hard time putting up some dogs of other colors like the black dog, the bi-color or even the sable dog. For some of them, this is not a color that they prefer. Of course the best structured dog with the most desirable temperament should be the dog that wins. However, it is a known fact that some judges just do not favor other coat colors besides the black and tan variation. West German Show Line The blanket type of coat is where the saddle part of the dog extends approximately to the elbow of the dog. There are no tan markings on this dog. However, sometimes this dog may appear to have a reddish undercoat. Most of the time that is due to the dog being out in the sun too long. Also I have seen a totally black dog have a white splash on their chest. The solid black is a recessive gene meaning that both parents must carry this color gene. Even with a sable, you can see variances in the color of the pigment. Sometimes you will hear people say they own a red sable. Sometimes you will hear them say that they own a gray. So you can find black sables, tan sables silver sables or red sables. This is how much the coat of a sable can vary. Vom Geliebten Haus. Because it is the most basic GSD color, it is also called black and tan. The pattern is rarely visible at birth, and the pulling back of the black saddle-patch progresses with age. In the vast majority of cases, a puppy will be born with tan points that gradually become darker and move from the head and neck towards the shoulders, back, sides, and tail, until ultimately becoming a black saddle. No other body part is covered by the black pigment eumelanin in adult German shepherds, meaning there is a well-defined genetic chain of events that produces this pattern. The melanistic mask black mask on the face has a separate locus that determines its existence. Need more German shepherd colors to choose from? Have a look at these fifteen GSD colors that will make it even harder for you to decide. A second role, more relevant for what we are talking about today, is the distribution of either pigment across the body. Keep in mind that the black pigment can also produce more than just black. An example of a black variation is the increasingly popular blue German shepherd , which is a dilution of eumelanin that resembles a shade of blue. Clearly, the dog is not actually blue, but the bluish undertones of the gray coat make it appear so. A phenotype is what you see, while genotype represents the make-up of it. Every locus is home to two genes and their variants alleles. Depending on which two make a pair on it, different colors and patterns are created. The first locus, that determines whether red pigment will be produced, is the E locus. With the saddleback German shepherd, the presence of the dominant E allele on the E locus means that eumelanin will be produced, and the next decision will depend on the K locus. This locus A is known for its numerous alleles, so there is a particular order of dominance, as with every other location on a gene. From here on, there are two loci that will influence the sequence and coat color. The previously mentioned pairs of alleles lead to the B and D locus for information on what to do next. These two, practically, deliberate together as to how much and where the red and black pigment will be distributed. The B locus has a dominant B and recessive b allele, while the D locus has the dominant D and recessive d genes. So, where is the saddleback? Well, recent research has found that the RALY gene mutation multifunctional RNA-binding protein has been associated with saddleback coat patterns. Without its presence, the saddleback pattern does not appear. It the RALY gene has a dominant modifier, which means it will have precedence over other A locus alleles if it does occur. Due to the dominance of the RALY gene mutation, only one parent is enough for a chance of the puppy GSD to have a saddleback phenotype. There Are Other Breeds With Saddleback Patterns Photo from: savannahbordercollie Saddleback German shepherds are by no means an exclusive item in the dog world, or even the breed itself. The oldest breed known to sport this combination of saddleback with a tan base coat is the Redbone Coonhound. However, commercial genetic tests are nowadays able to detect gene mutations and the pairing of alleles on different loci. Even when only one parent has a saddleback, a portion of the litter can inherit the RALY gene and produce saddleback in the future. The only condition for a guaranteed saddleback German shepherd is that the other parent has this specific mutation, too. Still, considering how common of a coat it is, the RALY gene mutation is deeply embedded in the breed and any deviations from it are considered genetic mutations as well. True, the pattern is not rare by any stretch of the imagination, but we have to appreciate the genetic process of the phenotype. The abundance of veterinary laboratories that perform genetic tests for coat colors and patterns means you can easily buy a package that includes all the necessary tools for taking a sample and sending it back for analysis. If you are not curious about it, it is still something you are free to do and brag about. Not many dog owners can boast of a framed genetic test in their home, but you could. Post navigation. Where did the sloped back come from, then? Instead, they were bred to win competitions. Therefore, the breeders did not need to worry about practical considerations quite as much. As the show dogs were no longer bred with these practical considerations in mind, the breed standard slowly shifted from a normal rectangular shape to one that looked more like a triangle. However, that is the way the breed standard has been moving for decades. Many breeders are now producing dogs with very sloped backs. The sloped-back German Shepherd is largely the result of a very small number of influential breeders. Once these few breeders started breeding dogs with more sloped backs, dogs with bigger slopes began appearing in competitions. It became weird for German Shepherds to have straight backs in the show ring. There is little reason for this trait to exist except that someone simply decided that it should. It is simply a trait that has come to be expected in show German Shepherds. Strangely, the German Shepherd standard states that they should have a straight back without any sag. Still, these dogs have been winning competitions recently, which should give you an idea of where this breed standard is going. Luckily, not all breeders follow the breed standard, especially if their goal is to produce working dogs. The straight back will likely continue in working-breed lines, as it is necessary for the German Shepherd to perform its best. They are still prone to all the health conditions we previously discussed for straight-backed dogs. The health problems we discuss in this section are simply extra that they are also prone to. One study found that there is a significant health problem with the way these dogs are currently being bred and advised that the breed be watched in the future to prevent further complications from arising. This is quite easy to visualize. When they are lower to the ground, they have to move more to achieve the same stride. This can cause excess wear and tear since the hips are moving more than they would normally. Over time, this can cause arthritis-like symptoms. Many dogs with extremely sloped backs also use their hocks for walking. This behavior makes their gait irregular, which can cause more wear and tear. It can also make the dog expend too much energy when they are walking, causing fatigue. The weird angle can also cause lower back pain. As mentioned, hip dysplasia can occur in straight-backed German Shepherds as well. In fact, it is quite common in dogs with straight backs. However, those with angled backs are even more prone to having hip dysplasia. This disease can be very costly, so we recommend keeping this in mind when adopting a dog. If your dog needs surgery on both hips, then you could be spending thousands. Because of their sloped back, these dogs are prone to osteoarthritis. Many older dogs experience this problem, but it is likely that dogs with sloped backs will experience more arthritis symptoms and get it at a younger age. Overall, because these dogs are bred for show purposes, they tend to be less healthy than the straight-backed German Shepherd. You want them to work for as many years as possible. However, dogs that have health problems can still be shown and win competitions. Suitable For: There is very little reason why anyone looking for a companion animal should purchase dogs with a sloped back. They tend to have more health problems, are more expensive, and have lower endurance. They are sub-par in practically every stance, except when it comes to showing them. Over the past few years, these dogs have been winning many dog shows. Therefore, those who show their dogs have been eager to purchase them. However, many kennel clubs are cracking down on German Shepherds with sloped backs, so this trend will likely change shortly. Which Breed is Right For You? Those with straight backs are less prone to health problems and have higher endurance. They fit closer to what the German Shepherd originally was intended to be. They make much better working dogs as well since they have higher endurance and are bred for more practical purposes. Those with sloped backs have few benefits over the straight-backed GSD. For the most part, these dogs are only around in the show ring, where they have been known to win some competitions. However, this has led to lots of controversies, as their backs likely led to excess health problems and are not in line with the original breed. In fact, the breed standard specifically speaks against sloped-back dogs, so it is odd that they are winning competitions at all. Many kennel clubs are starting to stand against these sloped-back dogs, especially after the extensive media coverage that some of them have gotten. For this reason, we highly recommend sticking with straight-backed dogs on all occasions. In fact, we particularly recommend finding a breeder that produces working dogs , as these will have more practical traits and temperaments. Related Reads:. Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. Ask almost anyone what color a German Shepherd is and they'll describe a saddle back GSD with a black mask in some combination of black and tan or black and red. While there are a number of German shepherd coat colors this is the combination that is most often considered the "classic" look of the German Shepherd. Most German Shepherds fall somewhere in between these extremes of coat colors and coat patterns - black and tan or black and red. Pale washed out colors, shades of blues and livers are considered serious faults in the GSD breed. The amount of tan interpreted as any shade of brown, from fawn, chestnut or silver to deep darker hues or red light red to mahogany markings can also vary quite a bit from black and tan German Shepherd to black and tan or black and red German Shepherd. Some GSD's may have very few markings with a lot of dark color as in the case of a bi-color saddle back German Shepherd consider a "blanket" as opposed to a "saddle" while other GSD's may display the more traditional saddle back coloration with a lot of tan, red or silver and much less black on the body with a dark mask. When born, a saddleback black and tan or red GSD puppy is much darker than they will be at adulthood. Oftentimes they may even be so dark as to appear to be solid black at birth - but this is not the case. When the German Shepherd puppy later dries off it's real marking colors will really be evident - especially around its anus and on the hairs on the puppies feet. Below find a few pictures representative of the traditional saddleback German Shepherd Dog and their coat colors and markings - of the black and tan GSD, black and red GSD and bi-color saddle back German Shepherds. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article.