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Newfypoo Testimonials Finnegan "I wanted to share and update on Finnegan as he nears three. He is such a lover! He has learned to "block" us in until we scratch his belly or give him a kiss. He does not take no for an answer. He has been such a blessing and we are looking at getting him a friend. I checked with you, but you are sold out. Hope you are all well, thank you again. Also, we put in a request by email if any of your adults are looking for homes. We are not sure if a puppy or an older dog would be a good fit so we are looking at both. Also, yes, today is Finnegan's 1st birthday. He is still a crazy one! He is so loving, huge, and still very much a puppy! They would both have Sawyer as a father. He is crazy as well. We have him at a trainer right now. The trainer always starts off with: he is huge! We have a neighbor that has a barn cat she rescued and it has been very curious about Finnegan since the day we brought him home. Finn is scared of him, but that cat is very brave. He will even come up to our front door and sit and watch Finn through the glass. He has been coming up each night looking for Finn, but can't find him because he is at the trainers! Finn is such a sweet. I hope he loses the fear, but he is only 4 months so I am sure it will get better. I'm also sending you a picture of Finnegan in his first puppy class. You can see the love. Photo by Sweet Sundays Photography Like many other people in , Idan and I thought it would be great to get a dog during quarantine. We went with a bernedoodle because I have some pretty severe dog allergies in my family, and he is likely to be a lot less allergy-inducing than most dogs! The drive there was a little over 3 hours, and then once we picked him up it took us about 4. We had to stop a few times to let him go potty, and he also threw up twice in the car—puppies get car sick! I sat in the back with him so I could keep a close eye on him. When we got him home, we closed the doors to the bedroom and bathroom so that he would only explore the living room and kitchen at first. We had his crate and playpen all set up before, and introduced him to his crate with the door open and by using treats to get him comfortable. Here are things we brought with us to pick him up that I recommend: A blanket to rub all over his mom to get her scent on it Lots and lots of towels. We bought cheap ones from Amazon. Pee pads we lined the seats with these and then put the towels on top Water bowl and water bottles to fill it with A variety of soft puppy treats A stuffed animal and chew toy A collar and leash we brought 2 different sized collars just in case His Name We named him Krembo, which is a yummy Israeli dessert made from a wafer, marshmallows, and chocolate. His coloring is very similar to this treat, so that was that! Other names we call him: Boopy Buppy, Floof floof, and whatever else comes to mind at the time. Bill toy which scared him at first but now he loves it This kong toy that we put kibble and treats in These kong balls that squeak! The crate comes with a divider so we put that in the middle. Treats: We bought 3 different kinds of treats. He goes absolutely bananas over these Blue Buffalo treats! We try to mix up his treats so he gets surprised each time he gets one. I stuffed the puppy under my shirt for a day to make it smell like me, and then put it in his crate at night. This is one of the hardest, yet most rewarding experiences of my life! He is a total handful—he never sleeps when we actually want him to and gets the zoomies at 11pm every night sorry neighbors! Crate training is really difficult and he is smart and stubborn. We put 4 of them out together so he almost never misses the pad. He actually took to the pads quite nicely, and has had very few accidents in the house! Super important for a city pup! Idan and I both did a lot of reading before getting Krembo—we recommend The Art of Raising a Puppy as a good book to start with. We templatized it for public use; here is the link! I hope this new puppy advice was helpful! Which picture should we use?! Similar Posts.

If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. And thanks to their excellent temperaments, they also make perfect therapy and service dogs. Of course, we cannot forget that thanks to their Poodle heritage, these pups are well-known for being allergy-friendly dogs with their low-shedding coats. The perfect four-legged companion, we must say! For this reason, ethical breeders always conduct extensive health and genetic testing to rule out any hereditary illnesses that can be carried onto the offspring. Health warranties should always come in written form, and they typically cover the first one or two years from adoption. After all, breeders can claim whatever they want on their websites. As a responsible Bernedoodle breeder in Arizona, Dulcito Doodles only breeds their litters from fully health tested and cleared parents. What Makes This Breeder Unique? Dulcito Doodles is very much committed to raising healthy, well-rounded, and confident puppies. They follow the Badass Breeders protocols, implement the Early Neurological Stimulation ENS , introduce them to grooming and socialization , and start the puppies on litter box training as early as 3 weeks old. In addition to that, they feed their pups a high-quality raw food diet to provide them the best start in their care. Our Prices and Health Guarantee We are small family based hobby Bernedoodle breeders located in North Phoenix, AZ and we specialize in raising and training gorgeous and healthy high quality Bernedoodles in various sizes and colors. Our puppy parents are health tested and are loving sweet dogs with great temperaments. We try to use holistic natural approach with our family and pups as much as possible. Our special puppy training curriculum starts on day 1 from birth and continues till pups leave us. Many of our pups are working with children and adults with various physical and mental disabilities including Autism and past traumas. We have pups who became mobility and seizure alert service dogs. We teach our fur babies to trust, submit and love people and to adjust easier to many different environments. We use special set of exercises and training techniques from Puppy Culture, BAB by Jeanette Forrey, Super Dog Bio sensory program and set of our own proven exercises that proved themselves amazingly well for our pups for many years and helped us better prepare our fur babies for service and therapy work. We provide our fur babies with a great solid foundation to build on. Our pups start potty training at 3 weeks old and later at 5 weeks old they start using doggy door and at 8 weeks old they are usually keeping their puppy room accident free. Pups will go home potty trained to use doggy door and potty box and will also know a few simple commands appropriate for their age. They will be dewormed and have their wellness exam and first vaccines done by our Vet. Our pups get to spend time inside and outside, learn variety of different surfaces to walk on and play on, learn about different smells and textures, get exposed to a variety of sounds and movements during our desensitization exercises. Reach out to us please and see if we have just the right fur baby for you. Many blessings to you. Katerina Share this:. Website: Arizona Goldendoodles More About Bernedoodle Puppies In Arizona Before you are all set to get a small Bernedoodle for your family, you must know about its behavior and other general details about adaptability. Here is an overview that will help you to make an informed decision. Temperament And Behaviour Bernedoodles are often quoted as a breed that comprises traits from the best of both worlds. They do not shed much, which is an element from their poodle background, while they are active and moderately energetic, which comes from their Bernese Mountain Dog side. They are very compassionate towards the people they are around, and as a result, they make great family dogs. They are also very good with children and enjoy hours of cuddling and playing. They are smart and are incredibly comfortable interacting with other dogs and humans. The most important and respectable trait about them is the level of loyalty they uphold. A Bernedoodle is very dedicated and will instantly provide you with a lot of warmth if it feels that something is wrong. You must train your Bernedoodle to stay on its own while you are at work. Bernedoodles are prone to experience separation anxiety, and therefore incorporating this element in their routine during their formative years holds a lot of importance. Health Bernedoodles are incredibly healthy dogs because of their genetic arrangement. They are immune to many common disorders because of their biochemistry, and therefore you can be relaxed about their general welfare. However, even after eliminating all the possible causes of the ailment, it is not possible to predict how an offspring will turn out in reality. The best possible thing to do is to feed the parents with proper meals on time and by taking care of their medication if any. It would be best if you fed your puppy religiously in the beginning so that it does not contract any health disorder. Proper exercise and lots of love will also ensure their happiness. Breeders vs Shops It is a very general question that emerges in the minds of people who wish to get themselves a pet. Buying a puppy from a store might be very convenient, but it devoids you with the small details about your furry friend. Shops deal with a lot of animals, and therefore they are not invested in a particular animal or a breed. A breeder, on the other hand, will be equally invested and will provide you with all the essential details and things to keep in mind. Right Advice A breeder will always want the best for the puppy. They will help you in selecting the right puppy that will be suited to your lifestyle and expectations. Money becomes secondary for breeders because their primary objective is to provide the best possible life to their puppies. Correct Details Most shop owners tend to conceal some details that might hinder their sales. On the other hand, breeders are entirely transparent about the details of their puppy. They tend to provide all the right information because they have seen the puppy grow and are well versed with the way it functions. They will help you out by providing details from the situations that they have encountered in reality. A shop owner might not be able to help you in such cases because of their generic understanding. Conclusion Having a Bernedoodle will be a worthy addition to your life because of its happy-go-lucky attitude. They will never let you have a moment of sadness with their happy faces and wiggling tails. You can contact the above-mentioned breeders according to your preferences and expectations. It is imperative to be firmly determined before getting a dog because it requires commitment and attention. If you think that you have all the needed motivation and resources, step out and get all set for incessant sessions of cuddling and late-night walks. Woof Woof! These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Flagstaff Arizona and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups! Scroll down to read about this amazing breed that we have fallen in love with. We love Bernedoodles! Best Suited For: Families with children, active singles and seniors, houses with yards Temperament: Friendly, gentle, smart, affectionate Bernedoodle Basics If you are looking for a fluffy dog that will be your companion for life, look no further than the Bernedoodle. While the name may sound a little funny, these dogs make wonderful pets and they are especially great with children. Origin Hybrid dogs have been in existence for many years, so the first crossing of a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle may have occurred long ago. The breeder who claims to have been the first to intentionally breed Bernedoodles, however, is Sherry Rupke of SwissRidge Kennels. Rupke bred her first litter of two Bernedoodles in and has since developed a breeding program around this hybrid breed. It is possible to have a Bernedoodle with more or less than 50 percent of each parent breed in its heritage if a first-generation Bernedoodle is mated with either a Poodle or a Bernese Mountain Dog. These are recommended for those who want a Bernedoode with minimal shedding and are also better for those with more severe allergies to dander. Bernedoodles are playful and affectionate — they do well with children and they love to spend time with their families! This combination is called the F1 Bernedoodle, or a first-generation cross, and it is believed these puppies grow up to be much healthier than both of its parent breeds and will display the most desirable mix of traits. It is possible to have a Bernedoodle with more or less than 50 percent of each parent breed in its heritage if a first-generation Bernedoodle is mated with either a Poodle or a Bernese Mountain Dog. Discover more about our Bernedoodle puppies for sale below! The Bernedoodle is a strong, robust dog with a compact and powerful body. It has a bushy tail, long-hanging ears, a triangular muzzle and button eyes. Their coat comes in a variety of colors such as black, white, tan, brindle or a combination thereof. Even though these hybrid dogs have been around less than two decades, the breed is already very popular. Weight Because the Poodle comes in three different sizes, so does the Bernedoodle. A toy or a tiny Bernedoodle stands 12 to 17 inches tall and weighs 10 to 24 lbs. A mini Bernedoodle stands 18 to 22 inches tall and weighs 25 to 49 lbs. A standard Bernedoodle stands 23 to 29 inches tall and weighs 70 to 90 lbs. Bernedoodle Temperament and Behavior If you are looking for a smart and loyal dog that will be your companion for life, look no further than the Bernedoodle. These hybrid fluffy pooches combine the best of both worlds: the intelligence and low shedding coat of the Poodle, with the laid-back yet incredibly loyal nature of the Bernese. The Bernedoodle is a responsive and loving breed. They are intelligent, social, and good with children. These traits make the Bernedoodle easier to train and a good family dog. Bernedoodles have a relaxed temperament but a moderate energy level. Since the Bernedoodle is a combination of two different breeds, the puppies will have a combination of personality traits from each parent breed depending on the amount of each breed involved in the cross. It can even depend on the individual pooch — litter mates that have the same parents might turn out to favor different lineages, some leaning more towards their Poodle or Bernese roots than others. From the Bernese Mountain Dog side, Bernedoodles can be a little wary around strangers so early socialization is important. Toy and mini Bernedoodles also tend to be more energetic and stubborn than standard Bernedoodles. This also means that separation anxiety could end up being a problem for Bernedoodles in case they are not properly socialized. Bernedoodle Health For the most part, the Bernedoodle is a healthy breed. In fact, the creators behind this designer breed claim that elimination of health issues typical for the purebred dogs is what drove them to crossbreed dogs in the first place. However, in no scenario is it possible for someone to predict how healthy any dog will be throughout their lifetime: the best you can hope for is that a proper diet, plenty of exercise and regular visits to the vet will help keep your pooch healthy and happy. Life Expectancy The Bernedoodle is still considered a new breed still being perfected so there is not enough information about their lifespan. While there is no way to say with certainty how long Bernedoodles live, breeders estimate that the average life expectancy of a Bernedoodle is between 12 and 15 years. Of course, there are bound to be slight variations due to the difference in sizes, so a tiny Bernedoodle might live to be 17 years old, while the standard sized are closer to the shorter end of the range. Exercise Requirements The activity level of Bernedoodles varies depending on breeding, but they are typically a moderately active breed. They do love their outdoor adventures and will be more than happy to join you on a hike or your morning jog, but they do not need intensive exercise to stay healthy and happy. With that being said, the Bernedoodle can be a good choice for apartment dwellers provided they have enough space and are willing to take their pet on long walks and to the dog park. This means that Bernedoodles adapt to various lifestyles, including different activity levels. You could be letting them roam about in a securely fenced backyard and maybe play with another canine companion, arrange a visit to the dog park for a game of fetch or simply have a daily walk around the block. The smaller varieties — toy and mini Bernedoodles — tend to be more active than the larger varieties. In any case, a good daily walk should be enough to satisfy the exercise requirements of a Bernedoodle. A good idea is to offer puzzle toys and interactive toys, too. These will keep your pet entertained and offer a challenge for their smart minds. Bernedoodle Coat Bernedoodles come in any combination of white, black, and brown. It is also possible for Bernedoodles to be tricolor or sable — black, white and brown. This color combination is also the most difficult to achieve, and as such, the most desirable. Recently, some breeders have presented a merle Bernedoodle which displays a marbled white and gray pattern on a black coat. Puppies with this coat are very rare and usually the most expensive. Just as Bernedoodles come in different colors according to breeding, they also have different types of coats. Most Bernedoodles have long, wavy coats that shed minimally. Straight-coated Bernedoodles are less common and tend to shed more than wavy or curly-coated Bernedoodles. The goal with crossbreeding these two popular breeds was to create a perfect companion for families of all shapes and sizes. Bernedoodle Grooming The amount of shedding depends on the type of coat your dog has inherited from either parent. Those with a straighter type are prone to shed more, whereas if its coat is curly it will tend to shed less. Brushing somewhat regularly will help to prevent matting. Bernedoodle Training If bred well, the Bernedoodle should be an easily trainable dog because it inherits intelligence, eagerness to please, and a calm demeanor from its parents. As with other breeds, it is good to train and socialize your dog while still a puppy to avoid destructive and nuisance behavior later in life. During the puppy stage Bernedoodles can be a little headstrong, but this tends to lessen as the dog matures and receives training. It will make both of your lives so much easier in the long run. See store for details on a particular puppy. Dog Registry of America, Inc. International Designer Canine Registry.

The AVMA encourages the elimination of ear cropping and tail docking from breed standards. Ear cropping in Boxer dogs is widely believed to reduce the risk of ear infections. It also improves their sense of hearing, as sound passes straight to the eardrums with no ear flap falling forward and preventing it. Dogs with cropped ears are less likely to suffer from ear canal infections than natural eared dogs since the development of related severe conditions is linked to having a heavy-hanging ear. According to them, ear infection susceptibility is commonly dictated by breed. Naturally, Boxers have floppy ears that tend to fold over. It prevents adequate airflow and traps a lot of moisture in the ears. As a result, ear infections are increasingly common in Boxer dogs with unclipped ears. Many believe ear cropping allows for better ventilation in the ears, keeping bacteria at bay. The practice of ear clipping, however, does not appear to prevent or successfully treat these infections. Many consider it an alteration that goes against nature or a pointless cosmetic operation with no concrete health benefits. Generally, ear clipping in dogs is a painful procedure. Even if the puppy is sedated, healing will trigger a great deal of anxiety. Cropping is also carried out under total anesthesia, which has associated risks, according to a study. Hence, many of those against the practice see the procedure as a threat to animal welfare. After surgery, Boxers will also experience discomfort as they recover, stretch, re-tape, bandage, and undergo other manipulations. Some Boxer dogs might need bandaging or taping to keep their ears upright, which lasts for days to months. During this time, they are separated from other dogs, and isolation makes a dog prone to loneliness. Clipped ears, like every incision, may become infected. It may also fail to stand or have a skewed form or distorted position, potentially requiring subsequent surgery. Meanwhile, many of those in favor argue that the breed is known for cropped ears for decades. Ear cropping is usually performed on Boxer puppies aged 8 to 12 weeks. The process takes about 30 to 45 minutes, but the healing stage will last for several weeks if there are no post-surgery complications. In most cases, a pre-anesthetic sedative-analgesic drug will help your Boxer relax. The vet or vet assistant will wash the ears. They ensure the ears are sterile before the surgery. The vet will mark the area where the ear will be cut. Based on the selected crop style, measurements and the areas that will be affected are marked accordingly. It will help make the surgery as precise as possible. Only a triangular piece of the ear will remain. It is stitched in such a way the ear does not flap over. Instead, it will stand straight. The same procedure is performed on the other ear afterward. If your dog is sutured, it needs to be removed after 10 to 14 days. Ideally, it would be best if you allotted ample time to take care of your Boxer after the operation. Prepare to spend a lot of time bandaging, posting, and going to the vet for numerous routine check-ups. You need to follow the proper aftercare precisely because if not, scarring can likely occur. Your household must also be a conducive healing environment for your Boxer to ensure your pup will recover well. Remember that a healing animal can feel pain from time to time, so expect grumpiness. Unfortunately, not every procedure turns out to be successful as Boxers have differences in their ears. Luckily, I have a short but precise pros and cons list to help you make the best decision if ear cropping is right for your Boxer. Pros On a Boxer, cropped ears look fantastic. Though floppy, natural ears are lovely on their own, the trimmed ear style complements their square-shaped head and blunt snout. Having cropped or trimmed ears is considered the breed standard in many dogs, including Boxers. It gives them a clean and sharp breed intended look. For many dog breeders and owners, cropped ears turned into a long-standing tradition. The practice is observed in many dogs, and they may even look different or look unrecognizable without cropped ears, as controversial as it may be. Your Boxer dog ears will remain clean. Ear infections caused by yeast or bacteria, ear mites, or ticks that tend to line the underside of the ear would almost certainly never be a problem for a dog with clipped ears. You will need to deal with the solid social stigma connected to ear cropping. As previously discussed, the painful procedure is deemed as animal cruelty by many animal rights advocates and dog owners. For the Boxer, the procedure can be excruciating and stressful. Even during the healing process, your Boxer will be forced to wear an uncomfortable Elizabethan collar. The ears need to be taped in a particular manner to ensure that it results in erect ears. While it is rare, some owners have lost their Boxer puppies due to reported postoperative complications. As a Boxer owner, it is your responsibility to understand the benefits and drawbacks of cosmetic surgical procedures like ear cropping. Ensure that your dog will generally benefit from the surgery before making a final decision. No, ear cropping is not necessary for your Boxers to compete in various dog shows even though it is preferred by the American Boxer Club. A clipped ear does not give a dog the winning edge in the show ring. If anything, that belief is a popular misconception. When it comes to ear cropping or Otoplasty, there is no strict age limit. It can be performed on Boxers of any age. However, a Boxer puppy should ideally have their ears cropped between the ages of 10 and 12 weeks old. Having your Boxer go under the knife at this age will avoid unnecessary damage and discomfort. Hence the operation can cause an older dog more pain and discomfort than it would to a puppy. Included in this estimate are anesthesia, the operation, aftercare medicine, and follow-up visits. However, I strongly discourage you from doing so. For starters, having your Boxer puppy anesthetized is needed to avoid excruciating pain during the procedure. In some cases, it may take a little longer. During the healing period, your Boxer needs to wear an ear rack or tape to hold the ears upright in place and erect. Keep a close eye on the tape or bandages to keep the wounds clean and free of infection. Realistically, it will take about a full 4 to 5 months until your Boxer is fully healed from the ear cropping surgery. The question remains: to crop or not to crop? Other things to consider are the number of pets at home, children, time restraints, financial constraints, and the pain your dog may experience during the procedure. If anything, it can be a painful procedure that requires careful aftercare and frequent veterinarian visits. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. Ears Ear cropping is a personal preference. If you choose to have your puppy's ears cropped, the procedure should be performed by a veterinarian experienced with the proper Boxer ear crop. However, if the surgery isn't performed correctly, there is no amount of aftercare that will help poorly cropped ears. You should discuss the pros and cons of ear cropping with your breeder. They will help you make an informed decision, direct you to an experienced veterinarian and help you with aftercare and necessary "taping" or "posting" that will train your puppy's ears to stand correctly. A definite decision must be made before your puppy is 8 weeks old, to allow time to schedule the appointment. Most veterinarians prefer to crop between the ages of weeks. Directions on post-operative "ear posting" should be reviewed in person, and written instructions sent home with you when you pick your puppy up from the veterinarian. If your vet or breeder can't help you with aftercare and posting, the information is available online. It is strongly recommended that posting instructions be followed, in order to complete the process of beautiful cropped ears. UK What Exactly is Cropping? When a Boxer has their ears cropped, in countries in which it is legal, it is considered to be cosmetic surgery. When does a Boxer have their ears cropped? The general rule is to do so when the Boxer puppy is 10 - 12 weeks old. Although a dog of any age can have it done, a young puppy's ears are small and soft thus making the healing process smoother. The dog is sedated during the surgery. The animal surgeon will mark the area of where the ear will be cut. Just as the name suggests, part of the ear is literally cut off. It is then stitched in such a way so that the ear does not flap over; it will stand straight up. It is the act of cutting the ear that causes many people opt against having this done. However, it must be noted that the dog will not experience pain during the surgery. A dog will have discomfort for up to 3 weeks afterwards while the ears heal. Small paper cones are usually placed on the ears to protect them in this sensitive stage. An owner is given disinfectant from the veterinarian to careful put on the healing ears twice per day. When an owner decides to have their Boxer's ears cropped they must make a commitment to following the very precise aftercare that is needed; if not, scarring will occur. It should also be noted that not all cropped ears will stand up. Why Are Boxer's Ears Cropped? In many countries, the Boxer is known for having cropped ears, something that has been done since the breed was introduced and owners feel that they should maintain the breed standard. The argument being that the Boxer breed does not have controlled ears.Some believe that long, floppy ears can trap moisture which can lead to ear mites and yeast infections. However, this can also happen with smaller, cropped ears. In countries such as the U. However, recent trends have many breeders keeping ears natural. A large number of owners choose this and those that do not can opt to have the procedure done to their Boxer once they obtain the puppy. We urge anyone who is considering to have this done to their dog to choose an experienced veterinarian, as a bad cropping can lead to infection and aesthetic issues such as too much of the flap being removed, etc. Please check with a veterinarian to see if he or she has experience not only with cropping but specifically with the Boxer breed since each breed that does traditionally have the ears clipped has different shaping and size. Some refer to this clipping as a "show crop" and by that, it is meant that per AKC conformation standards, the Boxer's ears should not be an outstanding feature or focal point. Rather, the size , set and shape should flatter the facial features, adding balance and lending to the overall appearance of the head. A couple of issues that can occur are often due to the thickness of the ear flap. Boxer ears with very thick leather may be too heavy too stand and a good veterinarian will be able to let an owner know in advance. In some cases, not wanting to take off too much of the flap, a vet will err on the side of caution, which can lead to needing a 2nd cropping down the road to gain the desired appearance. In some locations, the cost for this procedure is tiered based on the dog's weight. The answer is no. While some may say that the Boxer standard is cropped ears, just about every recognized dog club, including the AKC accepts Boxers with or without cropped ears. This is most certainly a personal decision. Cropping is not clinically proven to reduce ear infections or reduce the chance of a dog getting ear mites. Dog shows allow Boxers with their natural ears. The only valid reason an owner would have is that they prefer their dog to look a certain way. It is a myth that puppies do not feel pain.Is that worth the discomfort that a Boxer puppy will need to endure? While we must stay neutral on this subject, we suggest that an owner carefully think about this issue before deciding. If Ears are Not Standing Correctly Even with cropping, precise symmetrical ears does not always happen. It is not uncommon for one ear to stand a bit more erect than another, or even both may not stand as desired. The experience of the veterinarian has a part in this. But also the muscles at the base of the ears may not be strong enough. In some cases, this can improve with age and improvement may be seen in 1 or 2 months. Owners may have heard about taping ears, which is what it sounds like: a method of using tape to hold ears in a desired position with the hope that this will cause them to stay as so once the tape has been removed. Though this sounds like a great idea, it rarely ever works. Because of this, judges may be less likely to choose a dog with uncropped ears over a dog with cropped ears, even if they meet the breed standard in every other way. Even uncropped ears can bring home the blue ribbons. Just take a look at this natural-eared Boxer winning Best of Group at Crufts in as proof! Safety The Boxer was originally bred to hunt bulls and for bull-baiting a now-banned sport in which the Boxer was, essentially, fighting the bull. Bulls are strong animals that well-outweigh even the most sturdy Boxer. During these hunts and fights, dogs were at risk of having their ears shredded or even torn off by the bull. Cropping the ears was intended to give their opponent less to grab on to in the event of an altercation with a bull. Cropping them keeps the otherwise naturally floppy Boxer ears from falling forward toward the bull or other opponent. This decreases the chances of their ears getting torn or grabbed during a fight. Looks As Boxers evolved from hunting dogs to guard dogs , their cropped ears continued to play a role in their appearance. However, the ear cropping shifted from functionality to aesthetics. The cropped ears sit at the highest point of the skull and have a long, tapered look that makes the Boxer look more alert. Health It has been suggested that dogs with cropped ears may be less susceptible to ear infections. When the ears stand straight, the ear canals are exposed to the air, and moisture is less likely to get trapped. However, the natural drop-ear creates a flap over the ear canal, which could prevent the ear canal from drying out. That trapped moisture could lead to bacterial infections. Hearing Uncropped, natural ears have a flap that drops down over the ear canal while cropped ears stand straight up, leaving the ear canal more open and exposed. Optimal ear positioning certainly plays a key role. What is Ear Cropping? Typically, the end goal is to have the newly reshaped ear stand up straight. This is a surgical procedure and, therefore, is performed by a licensed veterinarian while the dog is under general anesthesia. This includes taping or posting the ears upright until they can stand on their own. Is Ear Cropping Illegal? In some countries, yes. In the United States, the practice is still legal but the American Veterinary Medical Association AVMA , which helps develop and maintain veterinary educational standards, opposes ear cropping for cosmetic purposes. Surgical Risks While it is a relatively common procedure in the United States, it is still a surgery which means it carries some risks. Even with every precaution, there is the potential for complications from the anesthesia and post-surgical infections. Ear cropping also does not end with the procedure itself. Aftercare can include cleaning the surgical site, administering topical or oral medications, and taping the ears until they stand on their own. This can take time and patience after all, happy, goofy Boxer puppies are moving targets who might not want to sit still long enough to have their ears taped. One of those communication methods is ear movement. Similarly, they might flatten their ears to show anger or aggression. A boxer with cropped ears loses the ability to do either of these motions because the ears are in a permanently upright position, making it more difficult for them to demonstrate their emotions. Cost As with any surgical procedure, ear cropping costs money. Cropping is also typically done before the puppies go to their new homes while the puppies are still under the care of the breeder. Imagine taking the cost of ear cropping and multiplying it by the number of puppies in the litter. And the cost of that will likely be reflected in the price of the puppies. Even if a puppy with uncropped ears costs the same as a puppy with cropped ears, the breeder themselves is saving money and postoperative-care time by foregoing ear crops for their litters. Conclusion While the breed has, historically, had cropped ears, there is now less of a functional need for it. Decide what you want from your Boxer and how cropped or uncropped ears play a role in those expectations. Now working as a veterinary technician in Oregon, Sophia loves working with and writing about our canine companions! We go to great lengths to help users better understand their pets; however, the content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Additionally, NotABully.

Each litter typically produces adorably fluffy puppies, each of which may look different. Some will inherit heterochromia — or different colored eyes — from their Husky parent, while others will receive the longer snout of their German Shepherd parent. History: Emergence of the Gerberian Shepsky To understand this active and loving mixed breed, we must first understand purebred Huskys and German Shepherds. As we mentioned, the German Shepherd is known as a herding dog. They were developed in for herding and guarding sheep in Germany. The Husky is a working dog, first bred over years ago in Siberia. They arrived in Alaska in where they ran hard as sledding dogs and stole the hearts of locals with their goofy personalities. No formal records document the first hybrid litter of Gerberian Huskys. In general, the German Shepherd Husky Mix has an ideal temperament. They get their friendly, silly, and gentle qualities from the Husky side, while they receive loyalty and bravery from their Shepherd side. While Huskies never meet a stranger, shepherds are standoffish. The combination leads to a perfect balance. Once grown, your Gerberian Shepky will protect you, and guard your family from anything- all while providing love, cuddles and plenty of adorable moments to last a lifetime! They are great around children, and when socialized from a young age, can live well with other animals. The German Shepherd Husky mixed breed is incredibly intelligent will learn quickly when trained appropriately. Huskies can be stubborn and become bored easily, while the German Shepherd loves to learn new things and have a job to do. If your puppy is more Husky, he may prefer hours of running, rather than mental stimulation. For example, hold out a toy or treat and let your pup catch a whiff. Then, hide the object and let your pup sniff it out. Get creative with your training and bond with your puppy to find what works for you! Be sure to keep your Gerberian Shepsky well exercised and mentally stimulated to avoid developing unwanted negative behaviors like barking, howling a husky favorite , and chewing. Calorie requirements differ based on age, weight, activity level, and sex. For example, a quickly growing puppy requires more calories than an adult Shepsky and should eat food specifically formulated for puppies. In contrast, active adult German Shepherd Husky mixes require about calories, while less active and senior dogs only require calories per day. A high quality food, formulated for large breeds is best. Remember to account for special treats in daily caloric needs! Get the whole family together for a walk or run. Continuously switch up the route so your Shepsky never gets bored. Other recommendations include providing at least 2 hours a day of moderate to vigorous physical activity. German Shepherd Husky mixes do best in an environment where they can play, run, and roam. Your new pet will be most content when able to participate in interactive activities like obstacle courses and challenging puzzles. With lots of love and attention, your Gerberian Shepsky will settle into a nice routine of work and play. Be sure to snuggle up for plenty of cuddles at the end of a long day! Shepsky Health Considerations Like their purebred parents, German Shepherd Husky mixes may suffer from certain health issues due to their genes. When you purchase a puppy, your breeder should be happy to provide a detailed health screening of the parents. Joint Dysplasia causes the elbows and hips to develop abnormally, leading to pain and eventual loss of movement if left untreated. If caught early, the condition can be treated successfully with medication or corrective surgery. Cataracts, inherited from the Husky parent, are issues with the lens of the eye that will lead to decreased vision over time. If left untreated, your Gerberian Shepsky may become disoriented, confused, and even aggressive as he loses his ability to process his surroundings. Again, if caught early, this disease can be treated with medication or surgery. This condition causes the stomach to swell and twist around it self. The risk is passed on to your Shepsky and great care must be taken to avoid it! Simply remain attentive to how much and how often your pup is eating and you should be safe. And, much like a wolf, the Shepsky mix possesses a strong snout and piercing eyes. They may even have two different colored eyes! Puppies with heterochromia are highly coveted and will cost more. But they are worth it — so gorgeous and unique! Just like the eyes, Gerberian Shepsky coats may be a variety of colors based on which parent they most closely resemble. Common colors include white, gray, silver, tan, red, and the classic German Shepherd coat color — Sable! Because the Husky originated as a sled dog, their coats are adapted for the cold climates of Siberia and Alaska. However, they are double coated and may shed one coat to accommodate warm temperatures. Your Shepsky will also have a double coat that requires twice weekly brushing sessions to promote proper shedding and skin health. Additionally, frequent full bathes are harmful to your German Sherpherd Husky mixes natural oils. This can lead to irritation and dry, itchy skin. Instead, only bath them when necessary with a gentle shampoo. Simply spot clean in between with a damp cloth, and use a non-toxic deodorizing spray if necessary! We've included some summary facts and stats below to help you make your decision. Do you think this gorgeous, regal looking dog is right for your family? Yet, cuddly, friendly, and adorable! So what do you think? Any puppies that qualify as a German Shepherd Mix are a cross between a German Shepherd and another dog breed. In a mixed breed, you can get any mix of characteristics in the parent breeds. German Shepherds tend to be strong-willed, intelligent, playful, and loyal. To get a full idea of what to expect in your puppy, be sure to ask the breeder about the other dog breed in the cross and check out the mother dog in-person to get a general idea about size and temperament. On the German Shepherd side, you have an independent dog with high intelligence and a playful spirit. German Shepherds make great family pets and are born protectors. Because of their protective instinct, they can be suspicious of strangers. Socialization early and often can help curb this suspicion and make them more open to new people and situations. German Shepherds also tend to be loving and have a lively personality. The German Shepherd Mix can have any or all of these characteristics plus any characteristics from the other parent breed in the mix. Before buying a German Shepherd Mix puppy and bringing them home, be sure to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed. If the puppies are being family-raised around children, you should be able to get an idea of how they will do in a family setting that includes children. The German Shepherd is a moderately adaptable working dog that was bred to guard, work, and herd. They do not tend to do well in apartments and are best-suited for houses with yards. GSDs prefer to be with their families and do not like to be alone. They also tend to prefer cooler climates as they are sensitive to heat. With a German Shepherd Mix, you could get a moderately adaptable dog that is just like a purebred German Shepherd. You could also end up with a dog that is more like the other parent breed. Talking with the breeder about the other parent breed can give you a good idea of what to expect. German Shepherds can be prone to elbow and hip dysplasia. You will need to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross to get an idea of any other health concerns to be aware of in your German Shepherd Mix. Health screenings, clearances, and the genetic history of the parents can help allay concerns about potential health conditions. On the German Shepherd side, training and obedience classes are highly recommended for novice dog owners. Although GSDs are highly intelligent, pick up on things quickly, and train fairly easily, they can be stubborn with an independent streak. Regardless of the other parent breed in the cross, you should be prepared to enroll in obedience and training classes with your German Shepherd Mix. The experience will be beneficial to both you and your puppy and will also offer some opportunities for socialization. You will still want to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross to get an understanding of what to expect during the training process. Professional grooming a few times a year and the occasional bath is also recommended. Regardless of the coat type, your German Shepherd Mix will need to have their nails trimmed monthly and their teeth brushed regularly. Not every dog will allow you to do this, so try to get a tooth brushing session in at least a few times a week to reduce tartar buildup. This will help prevent dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease. Plus, it will help cut down on bad breath! German Shepherds tend to have a high activity level. They were bred to run, herd, guard, and protect, so they are used to working and having a job to do. They are definitely not a lazy dog breed! Be sure to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix. You will still want to go in prepared for a high energy dog with the understanding that your German Shepherd Mix puppy may have an activity level closer to the other breed in the cross. If both are high energy dogs breeds, expect to end up with a high energy dog. A German Shepherd is a large dog breed that generally weighs between 55 and 90 pounds. They also usually stand between 22 and 26 inches tall at the shoulders. The other dog breed in the cross could result in a smaller or larger German Shepherd Mix. A German Shepherd generally lives for years. You should be able to expect a similar range in your German Shepherd Mix, but the other dog breed in the cross could affect this range. Featured German Shepherd Mix Article. Gerberian Shepsky puppies For active families with older kids or a childfree lifestyle, this pup can be an incredible companion. The Husky German Shepherd mix is quite a recent combination. But its two parents have fascinating and fairly long histories. They are both hard working, intelligent and co-operative breeds. German Shepherds have worked as guard dogs, police dogs, service dogs and herding dogs. Huskies have been sled dogs and companions for generations. When two different pedigrees are mated, their puppies can inherit the physical traits of either breed. Sometimes this means puppies from litter to litter, or even within a litter, have very different looks. Compared to some of the more mismatched doggy parents these days, German Shepherds and Huskies have quite complementary appearances. They both have erect ears and dignified expressions. They look well built and athletic. Both breeds have double coat, which looks deep and cuddly. They weigh lb. More males are at the top end of the range, and more females at the bottom. From the ground to the shoulders they stand at inches tall. German Shepherds are larger. They weigh lb, and stand inches from floor to shoulder. Again, males are usually larger than females. When a Husky German Shepherd mix puppy grows up it will be anywhere between the smallest Husky, and the biggest German Shepherd. Coats and Colors The most striking Husky German Shepherd mix dogs inherit the dark coat of their German Shepherd parent, and the bright blue eyes of their Husky parent. Siberian Huskies can be red, or even white too. They have thick double coats to protect them from the elements, which will need brushing at least twice a week to keep it in tip-top condition. Perhaps more often if the German Shepherd parent had a long coat. Or during molting season. But also be pretty chilled out about dog hair immediately settling everywhere in between vacuums. Temperament Huskies are loyal, fun, friendly, gentle and alert. GSDs are brave, clever and calm. There are some clear similarities there. This mix is guaranteed to be intelligent. Huskies, whilst fantastically smart, are often stubborn and free-willed. This has earned them a reputation for being hard to train. German Shepherds on the other hand are prized for their capacity to learn complex tasks and commands quickly and accurately. They welcome strangers as happily as family members. There have been some less friendly genes bred in by unscrupulous breeders. But generally they are gentle dogs at heart. German Shepherds meanwhile are more reserved with strangers. They need more socialization whilst young to become confident around new people. How to Get the Best Temperament So, whilst the physical appearance of a Husky German Shepherd is relatively predictable, their temperament can be far more variable. Remind yourself that your puppy could inherit any of the personality traits of either parent. Take them to lots of places where they will meet new people. And make sure you have lots of guests around for the first few weeks. After all, you will have a new puppy for them to play with! Their friendly dispositions and unswerving loyalty are likely to make German Shepherd Husky mix dogs a happy fit with older children and teens. But they will need lots of socialization when young to avoid the potential guarding issues German Shepherds can have Training Is Essential Bored or cooped-up Shepskies are more likely to show unwanted behaviors. Chewing, digging and trying to escape can all be a problem. The stimulation your German Shepherd x Husky needs will depend on their temperament. And on what motivates them. And may show less interest in learning games. But if their personality more resembles a German Shepherd, they might enjoy advanced obedience classes. Or scent work activities. Either of which will help to give them a satisfying sense of purpose. German Shepherd training is something you will need to keep up with for their lifetime. And their mix is likely to be no different. Whichever breed they take after most closely, they will need lots of socialization from a young age. We are talking of at least two hours exercise a day as adults. Together with ongoing training sessions through the dogs life. Exercise If you and your family love to spend lots of time outdoors, and want a companion who can keep up, the athleticism of Husky Shepherd mix dogs will fit in with your lifestyle. Siberian Huskies and German Shepherds are two of our most popular and lovable dog breeds. Their puppies can be smart, devoted companions who love adventures and exploring. First time dog owners or people who are out of the house all day may not suit this mix. This is due to the widening out of their gene pool. But what conditions could Husky German Shepherd mix puppies get from their parents? In particular German Shepherds are prone to: Elbow and hip dysplasia — incorrect formation of the joints, which often develops into painful arthritis. Chronic Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy — a degenerative condition of the nerves which control the hind legs. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus — bloating in the stomach of deep chested dogs which causes the stomach to twist around itself. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency — failure to produce enough of the enzymes needed to digest meals. Anal furunculosis — painful infections of the anus. Panosteitis — an inflammatory bone disease. Eye disease, allergies, and epilepsy are other possible issues. German Shepherds are also prone to posture and back problems that cause them to walk on their hocks. Compared with German Shepherds, Huskies have low rates of joint dysplasia for a breed of their size. But, there is some indication this has been getting worse rather than better. They are also prone to some degenerative eye conditions, cataracts. As a breed they seem more prone to some skin conditions. Are Mixed Breed Dogs Healthier? A German Shepherd and Husky mix is an opportunity to give their offspring a healthier combination of genes. And perhaps protect them from some of the problems associated with German Shepherds. In particular, ask to see hip scores for both parents and to see evidence of eye tests. These are common problem areas for both breeds. You can also help your pup have the best start in life by giving them the best diet. The popularity of both breeds means their puppies are often advertized nationwide. There are some important principles to follow to give the best chance of bringing home a healthy, happy new pet. But the cost of their combined offspring varies. Be cautious of any puppy which seems too cheap to be true. Breeding a healthy litter of pups from healthy parents costs money. Health screening, veterinary care, vaccinations and flea and worming treatments all add up.

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for Austin Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Austin? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Austin? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. In addition we are just two hours west of the Houston, Katy area. Also, three hours south of the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex. Our home sits on 25 acres of rolling pasture. I love that we can just open a gate to take our Golden Retrievers for a run in the field or for a swim in one of our two ponds. As a Golden Retriever breeder one of my goals has always been to produce healthy puppies. Therefore, all Golden Retrievers used in my breeding program have their hips and elbows x-rayed and then submitted to the OFA Orthopedic Foundation for Animals for a rating. All of our pedigrees have generations of health testing. Equally important to health is temperament. A properly bred Golden Retriever is a joy to live with. Goldens should get along well with other dogs and possess a willingness to please. Golden Retrievers love spending as much time as they can with people. They are always ready to fetch a tennis ball or cuddle on a couch. This is why the Golden Retriever is one of the most popular breeds for families. Reputable breeders only use Goldens with correct temperament in their breeding programs because they know that temperament is one of the most important aspects of our breed. Lastly, is the importance of Breed type and structure. Breed type are the traits that make a Golden Retriever resemble a Golden Retriever and not a Labrador Retriever or any other breed of dog. For instance, the coat of a Golden is very different from the coat of a Labrador. Likewise, the ears of a Golden Retriever are very different from those of a Doberman. Each breed recognized by the AKC has a breed standard, a description of that breed. The Golden Retriever breed standard describes what the ideal Golden Retriever should look like and behave like. Reputable breeders use the breed standard as a guide when making breeding decisions. After all, who wants to purchase a Golden Retriever who looks like an Irish Setter and acts like a Rottweiler? Structure is as important to a dogs health as clearances. For example, if a dog has weak front pasterns, a cow hocked rear, a weak topline, etc. So while it may seem unimportant to have many Champion CH dogs in the pedigree of your puppy, those CH dogs would most likely not have earned that title if they were not structurally sound. Structural soundness is important for all living beings. I hope that you enjoy your visit to our site and find some of the information presented here helpful. Contact Us Welcome to the Katian Kennel! This site was developed to share our love of Goldens. I hope you enjoy your visit, and come back often. For those of you who don't know: "Katian" pronounced "Kay-shun" is a play on Katie and Cajun my late husband's background - he used to say I'm leader of the Katian Nation - Yes, I know.We purchased almost 30 acres and are transforming our new golden retriever paradise. More about us.I recently lost my husband and am very thankful to have so many goldens who love me and occupy my time. When I do work on non-dog tasks, I work mostly from home so I can maximize my time with my canine crew. As the old adage goes, a tired dog is a happy dog.We purchased 30 beautiful acres…. Our new place is just outside of Lexington, Texas less than an hour east of Austin and just a few miles from Giddings, TX. I am truly blessed in that many of my puppies come back to me for training.I love seeing them grow and learn and am so grateful that my extended puppy family trusts us with the next stage in their puppy's life! Our dogs socialize with each other, mind their manners in the house most of the time , have free play in the fenced backyard and supervised free play throughout the rest of our property. They spend their time checking on the ducks in our aviary, the goats in our pasture and trailing all of the deer, rabbits, squirrels and other wildlife who call our property home. The golden crew confidently ride in our vehicles cars, trucks, 4wheelers, boats, kayaks, and our RV. In addition to being well-adjusted family companions, our dogs are duck hunters and competitive athletes. They compete in hunt tests, field trials, obedience and agility - needless to say, we are an active and busy family! My daughter, Katelyn, with one of the pups wooded front yard Angleton We are located on about 30 acres - golden paradise with rolling hills, woods and a beautiful pond! We do not raise our dogs in kennel runs. We have cameras set up so that we can keep a constant eye on our crew when we are tied up with non-dog duties. Security and safety of our furry family is of the utmost importance to us. Katelyn is my life-saver and helps out with the dogs whenever I need her. Between judging assignments and handling my own dogs at competitions most weekends, it is good to know that I have reliable help at home to take care of everything so I can enjoy the dogs off-property. In our pre-Harvey Angleton home, we had a perfect set-up. We are working on developing the perfect set-up at our new place in Lexington.The puppy nursery is almost done and in my home so that I can keep a constant eye on the pups.In Angleton, we had a small swim-by pond as well as a wooded green-tree reservoir for plenty of water training opportunities.Django, Grip, Nacho and Willow are our "launchers" and Gaga, Pebbles and Cica like to swiftly glide into the water - but all of them can't get enough of that wet stuff! Grip, Willow and Django will do laps together for hours if I let them! Whoever says golden retrievers don't like water, needs to stop by and visit! Availability of puppies and conditions of sale are at the sole discretion of the individual breeder. You are not obligated to purchase a puppy from the breeders whose names you obtain from GRCA puppy referral. He's our third Golden and is the king of our home. He has a larger than life personality and keeps us on our toes. Active, smart, playful, loving and funny all rolled into one handsome boy. He is everything a Golden should be. We couldn't imagine life without him and love him more every day. He's the most gentle, friendly and affectionate guy! The perfect addition for a family with young children.Sue was great to work with. She brings knowledge and expertise about the breed and has earned her positive reputation. You can easily tell that she genuinely loves each and every puppy. They are treated with loving care in her home. From the first week with our family, Memphis has been going to work with his momma. What started as a way for Memphis to be socialized and cared for during the day soon progressed to his becoming a member of the team. Nowadays, when he goes to work, he welcomes all of the employees and clients to the company. He makes the rounds throughout the day to make sure everyone pays sufficient attention to him. When not hard at work, he is looking after his person. He helps wake her up and get her ready for school in the morning. He also makes sure she is never alone at bedtime. And of course, he always makes sure she has a playmate. But every busy dog also needs downtime. In all seriousness, Yellow Rose and Susan are amazing. When we first reached out to Susan, she welcomed us into her home so that we could meet her dogs and see where she raises and works with them. It was clear from the start that she is not simply a breeder. She clearly loves each of her babies as they are part of her family. The level of attention she gives to them is beyond compare and it shows in the process she uses for finding families for her puppies. With her application process and the puppy selection process, we felt confident that she would select the right puppy for us. And we were right. Memphis has been a wonderful addition to our family. He loves playing with our daughter, whether she is laying on him while reading a book or running around the yard playing ball. He loves to go on 5-mile walks with his momma or sleep on the couch and watch a movie with his daddy. He is a perfect match for our family. We would like to thank Susan for being such a thoughtful and caring breeder. The time and attention she gives to her dogs and her puppies is evident in everything she does. We recommend her and her dogs to everyone wanting a wonderful golden as part of their family. Jay and Santana Susan exhibits the finest qualities all responsible canine parents should seek out. She leaves nothing to chance with regard to her puppies health, wellbeing and placement. The amount of dedication Susan displays before, during and after a puppies placement is admirable.

How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. E-mail Share by e-mail German Shepherds make great family dogs — they are loyal, intelligent, and have lots of energy! A good diet is key to giving your pet a long and healthy life, and the wrong diet can lead to a number of health problems. German Shepherds are big dogs with active lifestyles, so making sure they get the right nutrition at different stages throughout their lives is essential. Feeding your German Shepherd Puppy Puppies are growing rapidly and have very specific nutritional requirements. Puppy food tends to be high in calories and protein as they are bundles of energy at this age! Feeding your German Shepherd puppy a good quality balanced diet is essential to ensure that they grow up to be healthy adults. There are some foods designed specifically for large breeds such as German Shepherds, which provide extra support for their growing joints. You should look out for these foods in the pet store and ideally choose one of these large breed diets. You can find further general puppy feeding guidelines and advice via the AKC as well as specific German Shepherd facts and info. How often should I feed my German Shepherd puppy? Puppies need to be fed more frequently than adult dogs to support their rapidly growing bodies. German Shepherd puppies should be fed 4 meals a day until they are 3 months old, then reduce to 3 meals a day until they are 10 months old when their growth rate starts to slow down. Once they reach this age, they need 2 meals a day. When should I start feeding adult food? Puppies must stay on puppy food until they reach adult size. German Shepherds are large dogs and tend to reach adult size later than smaller dogs. They are usually fully matured at months. German Shepherds should stay on puppy food until they are months old, then they should move on to an adult diet. Feeding your adult German Shepherd An adult German Shepherd will weigh around lbs and need at least an hour of exercise every day, so their diet needs to reflect this. It might seem like your dog is eating a lot, but they need to replace the energy they burn off and eat enough of the right nutrients to sustain them! How often should I feed my German Shepherd? Adult dogs should be fed two meals a day. When should I switch from adult to senior food? As dogs get older their nutritional requirements change again. They are less active, and German Shepherds are more prone to joint problems such as osteoarthritis. You should consider switching to a senior diet at around 8 years of age. What type of food should German Shepherds eat? Whichever diet you pick, you should ensure it is suitable for large dogs or working breeds and that it has plenty of protein and calcium, and also includes some type of doggy superfoods, too. Commercially prepared foods are the best way to ensure your dog gets a balanced diet with all the nutrients they need to stay healthy, and they come in wet or dried forms. Some dogs prefer one or the other, whilst some enjoy a variety and mix of both. Dry Food Dried food is cheap, easy to feed and store, and has lots of benefits for your dogs. Dogs fed a dried food diet will drink more water, and you can soak the kibble to add a bit extra if you like. Wet Food Wet foods contain more water than dried, and often resemble meat which some dogs love. The food is usually in chunks with jelly or gravy, and some dogs prefer it to dried. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are large and active dogs with demanding nutritional requirements throughout their lives. They go through a rapid growth stage as puppies, and as adults need the right balance of nutrients to replenish the energy they burn off exercising. They need to eat a diet that has the right balance of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients, and ensure they get the right number of meals a day to maintain good physical and mental health. Puppies should eat meals a day until they are around 10 months old then they should eat 2 meals a day as adults. Do German shepherds require a lot of food? German Shepherds are large dogs so naturally, eat larger portions than smaller breeds. They are active dogs and need lots of protein and energy to keep them healthy. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. Shares German Shepherds are graceful, obedient, and loyal dogs with specific nutritional needs. Following a German Shepherd puppy feeding chart will enable you to track the amount of food your puppy is eating as they grow. There are varieties of foods available in the market and most of them come with guidelines at the back of the packaging showing you how much to feed a German Shepherd puppy. This article will cover different types of diets available and the specific nutritional needs of your German shepherd. It will also help you know what to do to ensure that your GSD gets nutritious and balanced food for every stage of their life. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Chart There are three aspects of this German Shepherd puppy feeding chart, namely the German shepherd feeding amount, feeding frequency, and mealtime lengths. It is important to find out the appropriate feeding amount, frequency, and length for your German shepherd without leaving out one of them. That way, you can accurately find out the best way to feed your dog. Overall, there are four ranges that you need to keep in mind. An active dog may require a bit more than the numbers in this list, and an inactive dog will need a slightly less amount. But this guide can act as a solid benchmark. A puppy will need to eat more because they are growing very quickly. Talk to your vet about how much exactly so you keep them healthy and happy. Make sure your German Shepherd has access to fresh, clean water all day. When you take your dog for a walk make sure to bring along some extra water in a collapsible bowl. If they get tired on the way or it gets very hot, this can save their life. So for example, if your dog is 60lbs they should eat between lbs of food in one day. If you notice your dog is losing weight, add more calories to its meal size. However, there are other considerations on how much to feed a German shepherd puppy per day. You might want to consider avoiding meals right before bedtime. Let them digest their food first before they go to sleep. Understanding German Shepherd Puppy Nutritional Needs All dogs require nutritious, satisfying, and healthy food and every breed have their special diet. For maximum energy and health, there are factors to consider when deciding what to feed your German Shepherd: Size considerations- the AKC breed standard says that a German Shepherd can go to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Females can be around 49 to 71 pounds while Males can be around 66 to 88 pounds. This means that they have a big appetite hence it is good to find quality food for them. They grow pretty fast hence they need specific nutrients for specific stages. Activity level- German shepherds are muscular, active, and agile which contributes to higher caloric needs to be complemented by feeding them a high-quality diet. Health consideration- GSDs are prone to many diseases hence a healthy diet will prevent problems. For example, arthritis that is caused by hip and elbow dysplasia can be mitigated through an excellent diet. Ensure that your GSD diet contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. How long does it take for your dog to be full? Is your dog still hungry after eating his portion? German shepherds normally take anywhere from 10 minutes to 15 minutes to finish the meal, given that you followed the proper feeding guidelines properly. If your dog shows signs of slow eating, we recommend sending them to your vet. If you think your dog is already full before finishing his portion, there is no problem. However, if your dog is still hungry after finishing the meal, consider sending him to your vet. This is because this can be a sign of a serious health issue involving their digestive system. They encourage the puppy to chew hence preventing periodontal diseases or tartar. Kibble is less expensive to buy and can stay fresh for longer. See also German Shepherd Gestation Period And Pregnancy Wet food is also essential for puppies because they allow puppies to feel fuller with less food. If your GSD need to shed a few pounds, wet food is a good way to reduce their caloric intake. Wet food is easier to digest, hence they are good for German shepherds with sensitive stomachs. Wet food is appetizing and keeps the puppy hydrated. You need to understand why your puppy cannot eat because it will help you determine the way to deal with the issue. There is no need to worry if the puppy lost appetite shortly and goes back to normal eating without any sign of illness. If the puppy loses appetite and takes a few days without improvement, take your puppy to the vet to find the problem because your dog might be sick. If the vet finds that the puppy is sick, they may suggest a special diet that will boost their immunity and give them extra nutrients to better their recovery. The puppy may have stopped eating because of behavioral issues; therefore, you may need to feed them same time to get a routine. Treats and human food that is given to the puppy may need to be reduced and also you can try different kinds of food. The German shepherd is a medium dog breed according to the AKC. Therefore, free-feeding is not a good idea. For the German shepherds, feeding schedules work better. If the puppies are free-fed the puppy may eat the leftover at any time even when they are not hungry. Sticking to a feeding routine help the puppy to stay healthy and prevent obesity. When you have a schedule, managing their weight and house training will improve. The puppy usually relieves themselves around 15 minutes after eating or drinking, therefore, when they feed at the same time every day and are taken outside after a while, accidents will be minimized. A raw diet is good for German shepherds. A raw diet help improves vitality and energy. The puppy gets healthy white teeth with an increased lifespan and reduced shedding as well as a stronger immune system. Raw meat is a great source of protein and an optimal diet. It is like keto to humans because it allows the puppy to reach their total capacity and good health. Dogs are naturally carnivorous, hence raw diet aligns with their natural needs. However, you should speak to your vet before putting your puppy on a raw food diet. The majority of commercially available kibble food is balanced and complete, and of high quality for your German shepherd puppy. Human supplements often contain harmful substances to animals and are unregulated or minimally effective. Therefore, never give human supplements to your German shepherd puppy. But they can eat small amounts of cooked chicken or turkey, plain cooked sweet potatoes or carrots, plain yogurt, and small amounts of fruits like apples or bananas without getting sick. Talk to a vet for advice on how to feed your German Shepherd puppy a healthy and balanced diet. These include chocolate, fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chives, avocado, onions, nuts, grapes and raisins, garlic, raw or undercooked meat, and bones. These foods can cause a wide range of health problems, from stomachaches to more serious problems like pancreatitis or kidney failure. Some foods that people eat may have a lot of sodium or sugar, which can also be bad for dogs. How much food to give an older German Shepherd will depend on their needs and how much they move around. But as dogs get older, they tend to slow down and may need less food to stay at a healthy weight. As a general rule, an older German Shepherd needs about 2 to 3 cups of food per day, which should be divided between two meals. A German Shepherd that is getting older should eat high-quality senior dog food that is made for their age and size. Senior dogs might also benefit from getting smaller meals more often. If your German Shepherd puppy seems to always be hungry, you should look at what they eat and how often they eat. Make sure they eat enough for their age, weight, and level of activity. Puppies grow quickly and need more calories than adult dogs, so it is possible that they are not getting enough food. Also, make sure you feed them high-quality puppy food that is right for their age and size. If you are worried about how hungry they are or how much they weigh, you should talk to a vet to rule out any health problems and make a plan for feeding them. The amount of dry food you should feed your German Shepherd will depend on several factors, including their age, weight, and activity level. Puppies: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Adult dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Active dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Senior dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. If the dog is obviously overweight or underweight, adjust accordingly. If you can feel most of the ribs without squeezing your fingers in between them — try 1 cup per day. This is a decent starting point for a growing large breed puppy that needs the extra calories to grow big and strong. If you can feel most of the ribs AND see its waist — try 3 cups per day. This is perfect for an adult German Shepherd which needs extra calories due to being very active. With this amount, it will be able to maintain its weight, but not gain any extra fat. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 3. This is a good amount for a very active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain a healthy weight. This should be sufficient for an adult German Shepherd which is quite active. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 5 cups per day. This is a good amount for an extremely active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain lean muscle mass. For example, when my dog was a puppy, he would feel all ribs and see his waist when eating 2 cups of food per day. However, as he got older and larger, I had to increase the amount — even though I could still feel most of the ribs! He maintained around .Although there are lots of opinions on how much food your shepherds needs, these guidelines work for me and my German Shepherds. Everyone is different though, so you will have to adjust accordingly if necessary — this guide should help you until you find the ideal amount. If your dog is a very active one it may need more food depending on its activity level. Always be sure to give plenty of water since dry kibble can dehydrate the animal over time. However, this amount will vary depending on the size, age, and activity level of your dog. Puppies and young dogs, for example, generally need more water than adult German Shepherds. And working dogs or those who exercise frequently may require even more. This is because they can easily hydrate themselves if given free access to water. However, you still need to remember some things. For example, take note that your dog will need to drink 6 ounces of water per day for every 3. Depending on the temperature and activeness, this amount can increase. Lastly, make sure you take extra care in providing water access to your German shepherd. The most preferable way is to fill a bowl with a moderate amount of water, not too much. The feeding amount, frequency, length, and water requirements can always be changed. If you have no time to visit your vet, the following topic may help you. How Much Should A 1-year-old German Shepherd Eat A 1-year-old German Shepherd should eat about two and a half to three cups of food each day, broken up into two or three meals. Pointers for Feeding German Shepherds Improper feeding practices can lead to serious health problems for German shepherds. An owner is responsible for taking into consideration the age and weight of a German shepherd before feeding them. When feeding a german shepherd puppy that is four to six months old, you must give them two meals a day that comprises around eight ounces and five ounces. When feeding a German shepherd puppy that is between seven and twelve months old, the meal amounts should be increased to ten ounces for each meal. This amount should be split into three smaller meals. This is regardless of whether they are active or not. Yep, German shepherds can gain weight regardless of whether they exercise or not. If you think your dog is gaining too much weight, you can split their daily calories into four or five smaller meals. Some people prefer using dry dog food, while others would choose canned dog food. Whatever you choose for your German shepherd is usually okay, but canned food tends to contain more moisture than dry food which may lead to bladder stones in certain dogs. However, when it comes to the amount of dog food you feed your German shepherd, canned food leads to more obesity than dry food. If your German shepherds are over five years old, you must give them an extra meal. This additional meal should comprise around four ounces of food so they can easily digest it during their older age. When feeding a German shepherd puppy, you must know how to correctly measure their food amount. Be accurate when following the proper measurements; otherwise, it could lead to your dog gaining too much weight. Use measuring cups that are specifically made for dry food. If you use any other type of measuring device, it might lead to your dog eating too much or too little food. You must not feed your German shepherd until they are full, but allow them to eat until they are slightly satiated. Do not serve unlimited food; give them about two to three cups of food per day. If you are unsure whether or not your German shepherd is obese, check its waistline. If they have a thick waist and their stomach looks like a sphere, then that is a clear sign that your German shepherd is obese. Never let them finish their meal if they are still hungry; otherwise, you will encourage them to gorge on their food. Your German shepherd must always have access to fresh clean water, so you should ensure they can drink it whenever necessary. Feeding Guidelines by Age Before proceeding with the following points, remember that age is not the only determining factor in a German shepherd feeding chart. Make sure to consider all the content in this blog post as well. It is recommended that you slowly let them adapt first. This can be their regular food from now on. This includes fruits, bones, and more. You should also avoid giving them your leftovers. However, they will need time to adapt. You should also consider feeding your German shepherd foods that can be gnawed and chewed. This is so they can develop their jaws, teeth, and gums. This will result in less feeding amount and frequency. Feeding Guidelines by Weight German shepherds can be of different weight ranges. An average weighted German shepherd 35 kilograms will then need calories per day. This only applies to German shepherds that do not exercise or are inactive. Active German Shepherds: In the case of active German shepherds that exercise regularly, every 1 kilogram equals 55 calories per day. So an average weighted German shepherd will require calories per day to be able to function properly. Take note, however, that this calculation may be affected if the German shepherd has a health disorder concerned with metabolism or digestion. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Guidelines Our last topic involves the difference between a puppy and an adult. The following are some of the facts that recent studies have proven: Puppies have higher energy levels than adults. This means they need to eat more than adult German shepherds. German shepherds will need higher protein and fat content at an early age. The amount of fat and protein will decrease as they grow older. Puppies cannot tolerate too many nutrients. Ingesting extra minerals and vitamins may lead to serious health disorders. Meanwhile, adults are only risking being overweight when taking in more than intended. German Shepherds usually have a good appetite and can eat a lot, especially when they are young and growing. But their food intake should be balanced and right for their age, weight, and level of activity to keep them from getting too much food and getting fat. As they age, they should usually eat less quickly. Most of the time, bones that have been cooked and ground up completely may be safe to eat. Instead, give them dog-made chew toys or treats. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Since German Shepherds consume meat, it follows that they must consume a significant amount of animal protein in order to get all of the necessary nutrients. Although while it is feasible to offer a dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, owners of German Shepherds should avoid doing so since it increases the likelihood that their dogs will not get all of the nutrients that they need. After talking about the feeding amount, frequency, and lengths of a German shepherd, you can now easily plan how much, how many times, and how long you feed your dog. You even learned how to hydrate your German shepherd the proper way. Lastly, we talked about the difference between a puppy and an adult in terms of feeding. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to German Shepherd breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. Before the four month mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps: Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed your German Shepherd puppy as they get older. With this rapid growth can come some risks. German Shepherds are susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia, that can start in puppyhood. They will be very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen between 12 and 24 months of age. This is because, being a larger breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. Remember that the more active the pup, the more food they require. While following feeding guidelines is important to avoid over and underfeeding, you can adjust the amounts of food you provide to your dog based on level of activity. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask your vet for guidance. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your German Shepherd puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. For puppies, this amount will often be two of three times higher, as they are more active and growing quickly. German Shepherd puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, German Shepherd puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. However, they can also be at risk of gastric dilatation or volvulus, or GDV. Certain dog breeds can be more susceptible to GDV; particularly deep chested breeds including German Shepherds. GDV can occur when a dog bloats a few hours after eating a meal. Though the exact causes of GDV are not known, grains and cereals are suspected to be contributors. The amount of food you give your German Shepherd is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult German Shepherds, between 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, and 1, per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your German Shepherd based on how calorically dense their food is. German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs who are at risk of GDV may benefit from exercise after eating, to aid with digestion. You should also try to give your German Shepherd a high quality food that is specially designed for larger or working breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. German Shepherds can be particularly susceptible to skin disease or allergies, including canine atopic dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, forms of contact dermatitis, or scabies. If your dog develops a skin issue, it is often a sign that they may be suffering from a form of food sensitivity. If you are unsure about what you should feed your German Shepherd, you should always consult your vet as they will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any allergies or chronic health issues: creating a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Part of figuring out what you should feed your German Shepherd includes deciding between wet, dry, or a raw food diet. Wet food for German Shepherds is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. A raw diet can be a good option for your German Shepherd as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your German Shepherd, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. The amount of food you feed your dog should be determined by their activity levels, age, weight, breed, and size. Any meals prepared for your dog need to contain the right balance of nutrients. You should also be extra careful not to introduce your dog to foods that are harmful to their health. While we might enjoy the taste of nuts, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and onions, these can be toxic for dogs and can cause serious illness and even death. German Shepherds in particular need plenty of exercise as they are a large working breed with a lot of energy. No matter how old your German Shepherd is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.

Welcome to Yare Valley Labradoodles Our love for our labradoodles is so great we decided to create this website to share them with as many people as possible. We live in a small Broadland village in South Norfolk, where our dogs are able to take full advantage of long country walks as well as the Norfolk Broads. Our first labradoodle came to live with us nearly 16 years ago and completely stole our hearts. Australian labradoodles are labrador retriever crossed with a poodle with the addition of other permitted breeds through the generations, including the soft coated Irish wheaten terrier, Portuguese water dog and the cocker spaniel. These infusions have resulted in dogs who are consistent in size, coat type and temperament. None of our pups are spayed or neutered before leaving for their new homes. This practice is only carried out by commercial breeders. I am not against spaying and neutering, at an appropriate age, but carrying this out before the dogs have reached maturity is not in their best interest. I also feel it is essential for family pets to be born and raised in a family home, as opposed to commercial kennels. We would never use distance selling or couriers as we view homing our puppies as a two way process that has to be right for both families. We therefore always meet potential puppy families and have them visit our home to meet our dogs. Once we offer you a puppy we ask for a 10 per cent deposit with the balance payable prior to collecting your puppy. Our puppies are only sold as family pets, as are the pups from matings with Waffle. Therefore no puppy shall be used for breeding, without our prior written consent. Please apply online now to be considered as a potential adopter. She was found by an angel that noticed she had been dropped off on a dirt road—she could not walk away. She was in horrific condition; she was covered in ticks, fleas and had lots of hair loss. She is much better now after months of treatment and is stunning. Her coat is thick, black, shiny and healthy. There is only one little spot on her head and her foster is treating it with coconut oil—then she will be even more beautiful. Her foster family tells us that she is loveable, kind and sweet-tempered. She adores people and will greet everyone as if that person were their best friend. She loves all kids and other dogs. Patricia, her foster mom, tells us that she is not sure how she would be with the cats if left unattended. The characteristics of Labs blend well with most families. They are loyal, loving, and confident guardians. Labs are famously friendly, outgoing, active, and high-spirited companions who have more than enough affection to go around for the whole family. Labs socialize well with neighbor dogs and humans alike. Belle is ready to find her own families that will continue on with as much love as her foster family, two and four legged. We are looking for a family that will have lots of room in their hearts for a dog that was dumped and not cared for by her previous owner. Consider opening your heart and home to this sweet girl. She will bring you so much joy for years to come. This feminine name is also associated with companionship, and intelligence. What does it say about you to have a dog named Belle? Naming your dog Belle suggests that you have an appreciation for beauty and elegance. It could also suggest that you are a romantic at heart. Is Belle a good dog name? Belle has two syllables, which is highly recommended by dog trainers. The name also ends in a vowel sound, so it's easy for dogs to recognize. Belle isn't one of the most common names, so your dog will certainly stand out. If you love the name, you should pick it! Bella is a popular dog name and will stand out from the crowd!

On a property in Candler County, Georgia, more than German shepherds were locked up in filthy, muddy pens so they could be bred and have their puppies sold for profit. Atlanta Humane Society Once local residents became aware of this puppy mill , which was illegally run by a woman named Belinda Powell, they started contacting authorities and urging them to shut her operation down. Powell ran an additional puppy mill on a property in Montgomery County, Georgia, which also had more than German shepherds. Atlanta Humane Society Help finally arrived for the dogs in early January. Powell was arrested, and local authorities, working with multiple rescue groups, started to take the dogs off the property. Jessica Rock, director of legal advocacy and law enforcement support at the Atlanta Humane Society , was part of the team who went to the Candler County property. Atlanta Humane Society Rock and a whole team of rescuers from various organizations worked tirelessly to remove each and every dog from the property, get them medical help and put them into shelters or foster homes. I can put my game face on, and I can do what needs to be done to get those animals out of there, but then when I come home and decompress a little bit.Some dogs have even been adopted by loving families already. By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy. Cookie Settings. Belinda Powell, said to be a dog breeder, was charged after the animals were discovered on two properties she owns in Georgia's Candler and Montgomery counties, according to WSBTV. The dogs were rescued by the Atlanta Humane Society and local police departments on Saturday and Sunday, according to reports. Animal Law Source founder Claudine Wilkins, who was on site during the rescue, told the news station that the animal rescuers were 'walking in mud and feces up to our knees' when they went to retrieve the dogs. Not only that, but the igloo structures that Powell had set out for the dogs to take shelter in 'were submerged in water. So, there was no place for these dogs to stand in a dry spot. While some of the dogs are expected to be fine, others suffered from serious injuries, including one dog that had 'mucked up eyes' and could hardly see because they were 'all clouded over,' according to Wilkins. All dogs were given a basic medical exam on-site, the Atlanta Human Society said , noting that the dogs that were most in need of medical attention were transported to the organization's facilities in Alpharetta and West Midtown for treatment. He was born in a cruel commercial breeding facility located in Montgomery County, Indiana, soon separated from his mother and loaded into a panel van. The van was packed with other puppies on their way to be delivered to pet stores on the East Coast. A towing company and several state troopers rescued the puppies and transported them to a safe location. Miraculously most of the puppies, though likely frightened, were physically unharmed. He was triaged as needing immediate medical care, wrapped in warm towels and quickly driven to the local veterinary hospital. Chance was diagnosed with a broken jaw, a crushed right nasal passage, crooked eyes and significant blood loss. I met Chance in the hospital two days after the accident. He was still suffering major injuries. I decided to adopt him that day. The next few days were a struggle. But after I visited him, encouraged him to fight harder, and held him in my arms for hours in the recovery room, he started to make progress. The next week he was stable enough to be taken home. Chance was put on a special diet and monitored, yet the problems persisted. After further bloodwork, he was diagnosed with Pituitary Dwarfism. Chance remains the size of a very large Beagle. He will be on growth hormone treatments every six weeks for the rest of his life—which most likely will not be longer than five years. Puppy mill operators care more about profits than puppies. Responsible breeders do not sell their puppies to pet stores. All dogs deserve the good life—but as long as the secretive puppy-breeding industry continues to hide the truth, too many dogs will remain victims of its cruelty. Visit aspca. Share Your Story Did you purchase a puppy from a pet store or online? Did you rescue a puppy mill dog? Your story and photos could aid us tremendously as we work to educate the public and expose inhumane breeders. The breeder, Angela Powell, 51, has been charged with animal cruelty, and dozens of rescue groups, including the Nassau County Humane Society, are stepping in to help the dogs recover. The German Shepherds were found living in what investigators described as deplorable conditions in rural Georgia. The animals arrived in Nassau County Sunday night. Investigators said the conditions were so deplorable at one location that the breeder is now facing animal cruelty charges. Authorities said Powell bonded out of jail, but more charges are expected against her. A Candler County Georgia spokesman said Sheriff John Miles learned about possible cruelty to animals on Powell's property and called in investigators, who obtained a search warrant and found dogs on her property. Booking photo of Angela Powell "These animals were living in just fields of muck and dirt, bugs everywhere, barely any shelter and so many of them crowded together," McDonald said. According to the Humane Society, this was a breeding and hoarding situation where most of the dogs have never been on a leash or in a home. All the animals need extensive medical care before they will be healthy enough for foster homes and adoptions. The Nassau Humane Society will take in more German Shepherds from a larger property involved in the case in the next few weeks. If you're not going to adopt and go to a breeder, please know what kind of conditions these animals are in," McDonald said. Are they just being used over and over again to just reproduce? Do they have basic shelter? An Amazon Wish List has been created for people to donate directly. Some of the items on the wish list include dog food, treats and leashes. To view the complete list, click here. About the Authors:. No longer able to produce puppies and suffering from degenerating hips, the farmer called the kind-hearted volunteers at Finding Shelter Animal Rescue to pick her up. Victoria's story gets a little more heartbreaking -- a littermate bit her in the left eye when she was just a puppy and never received medical care -- she has since been blind in that eye. But a happy ending is in sight! As Victoria was being picked up by Finding Shelter's president, Grace Kelly Herbert, she found that the dog wouldn't allow volunteers to touch her. Frightened and growling, Victoria was taken directly to the vet where she was treated for fleas and given vaccines. Since there is no cure for Victoria's degenerative myelopathy which affects her hind legs, she is considered a hospice case and was only given another six months to a year to live. In the video below shared by the rescue staff, Victoria can be seen playing with a chew toy in the couple's yard for the very first time. Keep up with the wonderful work Finding Shelter is doing on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and their official website.

We understand the challenges that can occur when renting with pets. Tragically, housing problems are some of the main reasons that pets are given up to animal shelters. Many landlords are understandably nervous about renting to pet owners. After all, there are people who allow their pets to damage property, disturb neighbors and generally give pet-owning renters a bad name. But as it turns out, these tenants are the exception. It is vital for landlords to see that the overwhelming majority of pet owners are respectful of rental property and ensure their pets never become a nuisance—renters just like you! Use the resources on these pages to show prospective landlords that you and your pet are exactly the kind of renters they want living on their property. Please note: When dealing with any landlord-tenant issue, seek professional legal assistance. The materials provided here are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Finding rental housing for you and your pets Finding rental housing that welcomes all pets regardless of breed or size can be difficult. You can increase your chance of success with the following tips and ideas: Allow as much time as possible to search. Research animal-friendly listings and realtors using online classified ads. Reach out to friends and family, using networking sites and social media to uncover connections and opportunities. Look for a community apartment guidebook in supermarkets and visit websites like apartments. Extras could include a letter of reference from a current or most recent landlord, written proof that your dog has completed a training class, and a letter from the vet showing your pet is spayed or neutered and up-to-date on vaccines. Invite landlords to meet your pet. Be prepared and willing to pay a reasonable extra amount in rent or pay a refundable pet deposit. It is worth a friendly ask over the phone or in person. When signing a lease.The only words that matter are the ones written in the lease. If the lease contains "no pets" language, be sure that it is at least crossed out, if not replaced with language approving your pet s , and both you and your landlord should initial the changes. Pet deposits or monthly fees if any should be specified in writing in the lease. Prior to signing, a pet deposit or monthly pet fee can be discussed with the landlord and negotiated. Keep a signed copy of the lease stored safely where it can be easily retrieved if needed. Top 10 pet tips Sign up to receive our exclusive e-book full of important information about caring for your pet, including training techniques and answers to frequently asked questions. If you allow your pet to violate property rules, damage property or make others uncomfortable, not only could you find yourself searching for a new apartment, you could actually ruin prospects for other pet owners interested in moving in. Use these tips to ensure that your pet stays happy and healthy, and that your landlord is pleased to have you and your pet as residents. Tips for cat owners:. Here are some ideas for your small dog. Cardboard Box One of the least expensive whelping boxes is simply a cardboard box. Make sure it is big enough that your dog can stretch out in it. The nice thing about a cardboard box is that, once you no longer need the whelping box, you can simply throw it away. To make a whelping box out of cardboard, use these easy instructions: Find a box that your dog can comfortably lie down and stretch out in but not much larger than that. The sides should be at least to inches high. You want the sides to be too high for the puppies to climb over, but not so high your dog can't get over it when she wants a break. Smaller breed dogs will be fine with 12 inches, whereas larger breeds will need 24 inches. Cut a "door" into the side of the box for your dog to move in and out of the box. The width of the doorway should be about twice her body's width, and the edge should be high enough to keep puppies in but not so high she hits her belly on it. You will want to use some sort of covering on the cardboard to keep it from getting wet and to make cleaning it easy. You could line it with duct tape, plastic sheeting, tarps, or plastic drop cloths made for painting. Then cover whatever material you use with newspaper or old towels to make the flooring soft and comfortable. Plastic Storage Bin A plastic storage bin can also be used as a whelping box. You want to use the under-the-bed storage type so that the sides will be short enough for the mother dog to easily get in and out. If you decide to go this route, fold old towels on the bottom to ensure there is no chance that your dog will slip when she is moving around. Be aware that depending on the size of your pups, they may be able to get over the sides of the bin as they get bigger. In that case, you can extend the sides of the bin with cardboard. Ideas that will work for bigger dogs, such as Labrador Retrievers and Rottweiler dogs , include: Appliance Boxes If you have a mid-sized breed, you may still be able to find a cardboard box. Check with appliance stores and home improvement stores that carry items that would require bigger boxes. If you can't find one, you still have some inexpensive alternatives. The downside to using these boxes is once the puppies get large enough, they will be able to get over the sides, which they wouldn't with a traditional whelping box with sides at least inches high. Kiddie Pool A hard-sided plastic kiddie pool usually costs less than twenty dollars, and you can get them in several sizes. They are also easy to clean. These pools will last for several litters of puppies. However, just as with appliance boxes, the problem with the kiddie pool is that the sides may not be high enough to keep the puppies in as they get bigger. There are newer types of kiddie pools made just for dogs that have higher sides. Another option for larger dog breeds is to use a water trough , which has higher sides. They're much more expensive but very sturdy and can be reused for whelping, as well as an outdoor pool or bathing area for your dogs. To make a whelping box out of a kiddie pool, find a pool size where your dog can lay out comfortably with some extra room for the puppies. You can line it with a round whelping pad, old towels, newspaper, or even covers made specifically for kiddie pools used for whelping. An excellent safety precaution is adding a PVC pipe frame that serves as puppy rails to keep the mom from rolling over and crushing a newborn pup against the sides. Just be sure the puppies can't get stuck under or between the pipes. To keep puppies from getting out of the pool when they get larger, you can run x-pens or playpen panels around the outside of the pool. Make sure you leave a doorway for the mom to come and go! Whelping Box Plans If you want to build your own cheap whelping box but prefer a different style, you can find simple whelping box plans on the Internet. Here are some to get you started: Are you InTheKnow? Sign up for our newsletter featuring all the latest stories and products we love. Invalid email I agree to receive email communications from LoveToKnow. You can adjust the size for your own breed of dog. The plans are for a very sturdy box that is easy to clean and take apart for storage while standing up to a lot of usage. Supplies needed include two 4-foot by 8-foot plywood sheets, four 2-by-4s for the pig rails, polyurethane, and hardware, such as steel three-corner braces, tee nuts, and cap screws. You'll also need a table saw, drill press, router, screwdriver, and drill with several bits. While the website includes detailed plans and instructions, if you're not accustomed to working with tools and lumber, you may want to hire a contractor to build this box for you. How to Build a Whelping Box with Puppy Rails The PetPlace website provides a very detailed set of step-by-step instructions on how to build a whelping box using plywood, wood strips, vinyl flooring, hinges, and corner braces. You'll also need to be handy in order to build this box, as tools required are a circular saw and drill. The floor is optional, and the instructions allow for removing it to create a bottomless box. The puppy rails are made from the wood strips, although you could also improvise and make a set of puppy rails using PVC pipes and connectors. Building a Whelping Box Another excellent set of plans for a whelping box built with plywood and hardware is found in this YouTube video. The box described in this video has the puppy rails built into the sides as well as two shelf areas in the back for supplies and can be placed on cheap vinyl flooring tiles for easy cleanup. The box was made for a labradoodle , but you can adjust the dimensions of the plans shown in the video for your own dog's size. Cheap Whelping Boxes for Sale If you're not mechanically inclined and balk at the idea of building anything with tools and lumber, you can purchase a box. There are plenty of options if you're on a strict budget. Check with local seller websites such as Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace to see if anyone is selling a box. You can also look on eBay. If you know of any breeders in your area, you could try contacting them to see if they might have a box they want to sell or possibly even rent out to you. It's made of plastic and comes with one whelping pad and PVC puppy rails. If you plan ahead, you can check out the websites of some major manufacturers of high-quality whelping boxes to see if they have sales. Easy to Improvise There are a number of less expensive, homemade whelping box ideas that will work for dogs of all sizes. You can improvise to create suitable whelping boxes that won't break your budget without too much trouble. Just spend some time looking at whelping boxes so you know how they are made and pick the most comfortable and safest style for you, your dog, and her pups. Husband shipped out on a sub for 6 months, wife home with 2 children under the age of 5, recently adopted rescue Newfoundland dog pregnancy unknown , a litter of 8 puppies. When we went to pick the puppy up at 8 weeks, they were gated into the kitchen running wild on the vinyl flooring peeing and pooping anywhere. My neighbor bred her French bulldog, small, and there were only 2 puppies so they lived in a kids swimming pool inside a pen unless she took them outside or on her porch to run around. The puppies had never been outside because it was too much for her, thus the kitchen was where they lived. When they were born and up to a couple of weeks old, they could stay inside -- like in the tiled kitchen area, service porch or garage. But after the puppies got older and could cause havoc, they had to stay in the garage.My renters children fell in love with the puppies so the parents allowed each of the two children to choose a puppy for themselves. When I found out 6 months down the road I was upset. The kids never helped out with the mother dog for it's entire life. Now all of a sudden then are tasked with the responsibility of caring for their own dog. I could smell dog in each of the kids bedrooms.The damage to the carpets, chewing on doors and frames was going to cost me lots of money. So this is why I only allow tenants to have fixed animals.NO puppies or Kittens. What damage? They are little and stay in their playpen most of the time, In order to allow pets who are integral part of a typical American family we have switched to hardwood floors only. The best decision ever. And she'll probably be pregnant again. It happened to me recently. Good tenants that I want to keep. By 10 weeks all of the puppies were gone. Post puppy inspection revealed no damage. In addition to other things recommended above, a letter to tenant might state that each remaining puppy after 10 weeks will have to pay the pet fee and pet rent as specified in your lease. If your tenants are slobs, puppy damage is more likely to happen. Great educational experience - responsibility and all that! Take a few off her hands! Have a talk, deadline, check frequently, and require neutering the mother is my best answer. I'm nervous she would LET them damage and just apply it to the deposit. Any chance these pups are worth some cash to the res to offset rent? This from Cesar's book: How long after giving birth can my dog be spayed? The procedure can be done as soon as the pups are weaned, usually four to five weeks. We got our last 2 pups at weeks. They could learn simple commands at 6 weeks. People are desperate for puppies. I belong to several dog related groups online. Shelters are getting puppies from down south and bringing them to NJ. Some have no idea what breed mix they are. One woman is now desperate for help since the pup she raised became a tall pit bull with German Shepherd ears that lunges at her son. If you adopt a pup ask for a DNA test. I would say that they deserve some credit for letting you know and it appears that they even know at least part of the lease. If they are responsible enough to let you know then they may also be responsible enough to not allow damage but you never know. I think I would maybe charge them an extra pet deposit and after 8 weeks and when the puppies are gone you will inspect and if there has been no damage then you could refund that deposit. Having the dog spayed sounds like a good idea, at least for the humans, not too sure how the dog feels about that. The dog might think that if it has to be spayed then you have to be neutered, LOL. It goes without saying that should be your policy going forward. I am leaning toward a temporary pet deposit, fully refundable if no damage and pups are gone after weeks I'll give them a firm deadline, just mulling the total length. Made the changes to my documents last night; posting on the website today. Are you willing to loose otherwise good tenants over something that may not become a problem? In this part of Georgia folks are bad about NOT spaying their animals and most of the pups we get are often found in and around dumpsters and wandering in the street to be squashed by traffic. Puppies old enough to crawl around tend to do several things; eat, sleep, poop; then repeat the last process over and over again. Encourage your tenants to get themselves a whelping bed a plastic swimming pool would be fine and, as the pups get older, a puppy pen. Hopefully at least one of the rooms in your rental is on tile or vinyl to save carpet. If your tenants are unable to find suitable homes for these pups meaning new owners who will, eventually, spay or neuter the pups to prevent further litters then encourage them to contact local rescue groups that might be able to take these pups as well as helping with mom spayed to prevent another litter down the road. Just thinking out loud. Definitely a large plastic pool as a whelping bed, and a puppy pen. It works surprisingly well! Tell your tenant about it. The pups learn to use the litter box very well. Your tenant will love you for sharing this information with her. It truly is a game-changer! We had three Samoyeds starting back. In the dogs are long gone,but the carpeting is still. So what if you could have the benefits of a dog—without really owning it? Puppy Paradise offers that scenario to would-be pet lovers. For a nominal fee, you can pay for a pooch play date as a way to welcome a four-legged friend into your home. The privilege comes without burning a hole in your pockets. Read More Kangaroos can fly! With a doctor's note Dietz has been in the pet business for 45 years, and started puppy parties 12 years ago. At the time, a family asked to borrow a pet for a sick child who was unable to keep a dog in the house. Health experts like Mayo Clinic cite the healing benefits to humans of pet ownership, with benefits including alleviating stress, lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, among other perks. With that in mind, Dietz is selective about the dogs his company uses. Forcing soft warm cuddly puppies to stay in a cage is actually more harmful like a punishment because they become shyer. Puppies between two and three months old, which Dietz considers as "young teenagers" are provided for parties—but aren't sold at the parties. If a party attendee wants to adopt or purchase a dog, Dietz and the pet-store staff play match makers. The goal is to ensure pets find owners who are totally committed for a lifetime. Most of his puppies come from Long Island, Connecticut and Florida from private breeders who are registered and certified by local and federal agencies. Billions spent on animals Perks of pet ownership are among some of the factors feeding pet industry's growth over the past decade. Owners use that money to lavish attention on the more than million pets owned domestically, according to estimates from The Humane Society, which reports at least 62 percent of the U. However, pet ownership rates have begun drop among Baby Boomers in the last five years, largely for economic and lifestyle reasons. That has opened the door for a new generation of pet owners, including Millenials. The new crop of animal lovers have helped keep the pet industry growing at a healthy clip. Just like their human counterparts, pets are now feasting on organic foods and healthier treats. Dietz welcomes the trend, but adds that animal ownership is about more than just dollar figures. This is the investment of owning a pet. Renting out dogs is a growing business. Apparently renting dogs for soirees has become a growing business in the last few years. The companies behind this new trend have reported bringing the furry entertainers to birthdays, office events, and even bachelorette parties. But is hiring dogs for parties sending the wrong message? One such company in Los Angeles, Calif. Business has picked up recently and they expect to do parties this year. Most of their business is in children's parties, where the puppies and kids sit in a playpen after being taught proper petting technique. I'm glad they have workers supervising and advising on handling, but the scale of this business makes me nervous that the dogs' best interest is not the first priority. In a different set-up, Provo, Utah's Puppies for Rent has the ultimate goal of getting customers to adopt puppies. Jenna Miller founded the company three years ago after missing her dog while studying at Bringham Young University. Now with three locations near college campuses, Jenna takes unwanted pups from rescue organizations and owner surrenders , puts them in foster homes, and then rents them out to students by the hour. Afterwards, renters can apply for permanent adoption. Most puppies have gone to forever homes within two months. This model seems better since the interaction is one-on-one and encourages long term adoption. I'm a bit conflicted on the whole puppy party idea. It can certainly be a way to socialize young pets, while teaching kids how to to safely interact with dogs, but I worry that turning this into a business model can lead to overworked and overwhelmed puppies. Allowing people to rent dogs can also support the idea that caring for a pet isn't a long term commitment. Sign up and get the answers to your questions. Email Address: This concept would be cool if it could be adapted for animal shelters and rescue organizations. Instead of renting a playpen of puppies, parents could have someone from the local shelter come with a dog or two in exchange for a donation. It would be a great opportunity to not only teach kids about the proper way to approach dogs, but to also educate on homeless pets and canine behavior. What do you think about puppies for hire? Adult, kid, birthday, anniversary, etc. Our biggest event ever! And we need your support to make it happen. We are sooo excited!! And to make it more fun for everyone, this effort is part of our Quarterly Raffle. The cost of getting him neutered is more than I can afford. But I hate to take him to the shelter. So for now I have to keep him chained up. If I can get him neutered and vaccinated then he can live indoors with us. I would love for him to be a real part of our family. We will be traveling to Galax where we have been working for months to secure dogs who desperately need neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. These animals are loved but have owners who simply cannot afford their surgery. Without this event many would face becoming pregnant and ending up in the local shelter with puppies. Or possibly facing a life on a chain. This is no way for a family to live. And so we have been working overtime to put together this major event. We will be partnering with several groups to bring a mobile unit to Galax and bring these lifesaving and lifechanging services to these dogs. We cannot WAIT. Every dog will be neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. A donation of any amount will truly make a difference! The number of cat lives that will be saved from preventing unwanted kittens is often totally hard to digest. Just last month, we spayed almost 25 early pregnant cats — you can see how many lives that saved through prevention. It also means the world to the human caretakers of these kitties who so often struggle to feed their own families let alone the dozens of cats they care for. We will spend 5 days in the field working with community members in this very under-resourced communities. We will set traps in trailer parks, in yards and barns, on decks and in gardens — wherever we can — to get 80 cats sterilized, vaccinated and microchipped. This will require not only 36 hours of trapping but more than 10 additional hours of driving to and from our surgical clinic. Our van will be loaded up with 80 cats the very most we can fit to make the 3. This is a huge undertaking each time we do it. Our team is so dedicated! And so over a short period of just 5 days, we will sterilize, vaccinate and microchip animals in two separate but equally under-resourced communities. Oregon's richest veterinarian wants to lease you a pet—but complaints dog his business. In the window is a gray bunny that can bounce a ball. On a recent visit, there was an impossibly fuzzy goldendoodle puppy. Inside, there is leather furniture, a gas fireplace and glossy dog books in a cherry bookcase. This is no average pet store. According to its founder, this is the most revolutionary development in pet ownership since the Chuckit! This is pets. For lease. Hannah the Pet Society is the first store of a planned rollout across the country where customers can take home a dog, cat, rabbit or guinea pig and, for a monthly fee, receive food and veterinarian care in the knowledge, if it doesn't work out, they can return the animal. The richest Oregonian you've probably never heard of, Campbell is a veterinarian who built the largest chain of vet clinics in the world. Campbell and others think Hannah the Pet Society will be his next big hit. Others aren't so sure. Customers have filed two complaints against the company with the Better Business Bureau Hannah has an F grade , and one with the state attorney general's office. Some complain of slick sales staff misquoting actual costs and dodging tough questions. Others say they've had a hard time getting their money back. Hannah has also spooked members of the local animal welfare community, who worry about a for-profit company operating under the veneer of a nonprofit. Others are put off by the notion of "renting" animals—and what that means about who decides whether Fluffy lives or dies. Is that decision out of your hands, because you're leasing that pet? If my dog gets a serious illness, is it going to be euthanized? I just don't know. It's the kind of response he expects from established organizations who view his business model as a threat. Campbell, 55, was raised in Burns, a small prairie town in Eastern Oregon whose 2, residents are outnumbered by cattle. His dad, Bert, was the town doctor, and his mother, Hannah, was a nurse. Campbell married his hometown sweetheart, Sandy, and earned his two bachelor's degrees and two veterinary degrees from Oregon State and Washington State universities, finishing in .At heart, Campbell is an entrepreneur. A year and a half out of school, he bought the original Banfield Pet Hospital, founded by Dr. Warren Wegert. Before he died, Wegert told a newspaper: "Scott Campbell's a brilliant person. He's a genius at marketing, and he could foresee the future of veterinary medicine. Will Novak, who served as Banfield's chief medical officer and vice president of operations, says the goal was to make Banfield the Southwest Airlines of the veterinary industry. And by , there were Banfield hospitals in the United States and in England. More than 1 million pets were on a Banfield Wellness Plan. Such a massive chain was a big change for the highly fragmented veterinary industry. While some called Banfield "vet in a box," the cash flow was considerable—the business grew by more than 20 percent a year for the two decades Campbell ran it. Lathrop says he was always concerned about what he saw as a lowered standard of care at Banfield. He's certainly opinionated. He sees life as a business model and a business opportunity. That didn't have much to do with the best care for a pet. When he bought Banfield, he says, the average death rate for pets under anesthesia was greater than 1 in .When he sold the company, the death rate was 1 in 12,, Campbell says. Mars He owns numerous businesses, including a Portland pipe-drilling company and a restaurant, Bear Valley Roadhouse, in tiny Seneca, Ore. He spends most of his time in Seneca, about 60 miles north of Burns, where he is developing a ,acre ranch. The Silvies Valley Ranch is a working cattle ranch; Campbell is building as many as guest cabins, lodge rooms and time-share units. In Portland, he keeps the same home in the Pleasant Valley area that he bought in with Sandy, and still votes here. His two sons attend Oregon State. He also runs an internship program for OSU veterinary students. But even that is not enough. In , Campbell decided to start Hannah the Pet Society, which he named after his mother. Campbell says he looked at the major reasons 38 percent of American households don't have pets, and tried to tailor Hannah to address those issues. The big one, he maintains, is that people worry whether a pet is going to be a good fit—if it isn't, they're stuck with an unwanted member of the family. So Campbell developed a software he calls Hannahware to match owners to pets. A visitor to Hannah is asked a series of questions to find a perfect match: "Do you prefer to make decisions intuitively or with a lot of research? If a pet does something wrong, do you blame yourself or the pet? If a pet doesn't work out, a family can return it and try again to be matched to another pet through Hannah. The cost of pet food is another reason folks shy away from animals, Campbell says. Customers who subscribe to Hannah get food delivered to their homes anywhere within 10 miles of Portland. Health-care costs are another concern, so vet care is included in the monthly rental fee—although only at Hannah's hospital in Vancouver or a Mall location. Renting the animals, rather than owning them, addresses what Campbell says is another obstacle to keeping a pet. Among other things, this feature is attractive to the elderly, who often won't get a pet because they're afraid the animal will outlive them. Now, Campbell says, they can rest easy knowing their pet will have a good home if that happens. Hannah the Pet Society doesn't just find pets for people, it also allows those with their own pets to join the program, if the animal passes a physical and personality test. Such animals make up a significant portion of Hannah's business. In only two years, Campbell has become the largest pet owner in the world, at more than 2, It turns out nobody really cares. Julie Skeen says she loves Hannah the Pet Society. She runs a home-based doggie day care in Portland, and two years ago signed up her nowyear-old miniature pinscher-Boston terrier mix, Iki. She was so pleased with the plan that she leased a puppy. Hannah provides Prozac for the younger pup, and has been an immense help with obedience training, Skeen says. Others aren't quite so satisfied. Portlander JeJe Shenteal and a friend visited Hannah and spent hours with sales staff in Clackamas and Vancouver getting attached to two Chihuahua puppies. They ultimately backed out. What sent her running, Shenteal says, was what happened when she asked whether she would still be bound to the contract if a Chihuahua died. In a telephone interview, Campbell said he couldn't imagine Shenteal was told that and joked, "Come on. Why not just the ears? A contract obtained by WW says if a Hannah pet dies in a Hannah hospital, the contract ends. Otherwise, the agreement "will terminate upon the pet family immediately contacting us so we can arrange for the proper cremation of the pet's remains. Davis says all Hannah pets are microchipped, so permanent loss of a pet isn't likely. They later filed a complaint with the Better Business Bureau. Hannah says it was clear with Shenteal she would be charged, and called the complaint a misunderstanding. The rental option was "a little bizarre," but also enticing since she says she lives paycheck to paycheck. Months later, Rose says she's having second thoughts, in part because she realizes she would not be allowed to decide what treatments her dog received if it became ill. It would be up to a Hannah vet, not her, what care her dog gets. If a pet parent wants to opt for other treatment, the parent can get veterinary care elsewhere, Campbell says. Or she can buy out her contract. But Hannah clients must wait for the end of a five-month-to-one-year "honeymoon period" before paying hundreds to end the lease. Ultimately, if a pet is likely to die, Campbell says a Hannah doctor may give the pet away for free to the pet parent, who can then seek treatment elsewhere. Earlier this year, Laura McNamara, who lives in Southeast Portland, says she decided to enroll her two rescued dogs, Alvin and Peanut, in the program. That way, their veterinary care would be covered. Not owning her pets was unsettling, but McNamara says the flat monthly fee appealed to her. She went in to the Clackamas Town Center location and described her pooches' issues. Her contract reflected that estimated price. Davis told WW that Hannah salespeople have backgrounds in used cars and gym memberships. Yeah, it's covered. When she brought in Alvin for his physical six days later, however, the doctor told her the dog's health posed too big a risk. McNamara left. She filed a complaint with the Oregon Department of Justice. A spokesman says the department is not investigating. Campbell says just one-third of the pets that owners bring to Hannah are accepted into the program. Novak points out that an initial contract always includes an estimated price, not a set one. At the store, signs tout Hannah's partnerships with local and national shelters and rescue groups. But no metro-area shelters—including the Oregon Humane Society and Multnomah County Animal Control —have agreed to work with Hannah, and some believe the company might be overselling its role as a rescue organization. For Multnomah County Animal Control director Mike Oswald, the impermanence of the Hannah arrangement is what made him decline an advance from the company. There, shelter head Lisa Beggio says she has provided about animals to Hannah in the past year. As much as Hannah touts its work finding homes for pets, Lytle, with the Humane Society, says he thinks many get the wrong idea. Campbell jokes that his month-old venture is currently a nonprofit. But it's clear he believes it won't be for long: Hannah is growing. Hannah is opening a new store in Washington Square mall. And nearby the company is also building a 15,square-foot veterinary clinic, boarding facility and training center, in addition to those at Mall and in Vancouver. It's beginning to look like the start of Campbell's second empire. The company has nearly 10, likes on Facebook and a website overflowing with glowing reviews. And, Campbell adds, if people don't want a Hannah pet, they don't have to get one. Your help supports local, independent journalism that informs, educates, and engages our community. Become a WW supporter. Get Portland stories straight to your inbox. We'll send you a newsletter with what you need to know every week.