labradoodle puppies in michigan

They love children and are good with them and all other pets in the family, including dogs. However, their love and affection might reach to such an extent that they might fall jealous if new pets or children are introduced to its family. At this time, it is always advisable to give them some extra attention. They are usually reserved when strangers are around, and would even alert their families if they come across strange noises or suspicious activities. They are good for apartment life, although, large-sized weimardoodles are not advisable for families with small children in order to avoid possible accidents because of their high energy levels. Because of their family-oriented nature, they do not enjoy solitude, and hence, should not be left alone for long periods of time, which might frequently lead to separation anxiety. Also, too much loneliness might indulge them into destructive or disruptive behavior. Care Exercise In order to keep their energy at bay, these canines need some robust amount of exercise every day. Take them out on a leash at least once every day for a walk or jog. Larger weimardoodles need longer walks, smallers short. However, the shorties can even meet their daily needs through a couple of vigorous play sessions at home. The larger dogs need to go out to play. Grooming Grooming your weimardoodle mostly depends on coat type. Longer coats need frequent brushing, or at least thrice a week. But do consult a professional, if you would like to trim its hair. Bathing your dog should be done only when you find them dirty. You should also take their ear health seriously, since dogs with long hanging ears are more vulnerable to ear infections. Clean up their ears frequently, and cut their nails when they grow too long to hurt themselves or others. Health Problems Like most other cross breeds, the weimardoodle is much less prone to developing diseases, except for general dog diseases or those that are carried forward genetically. Get them vet-checked regularly. But do begin socializing your puppy since childhood, right from the time you bring it home from your breeder. Early socialization would effectively keep future issues at bay. Socialize them with your neighbors, pets, children, etc. However, a positive reinforcement-based approach is recommended. But insist of high-energy, good quality dog foods that would provide them with the respective amount of nutrition they need to meet their zealous and enthusiastic lifestyle. Dark brown, red brown, apricot, chocolate, white, black and white Suitable for: Temperament: Active and affectionate These dogs are easy enough for novice owners to manage and make perfect companions for families of all ages. Their curly hair is low-shedding and hypoallergenic. As protective, loyal dogs, they form incredibly strong bonds with their family but get along well with children and other pets. This breed does have special health concerns that prospective owners should be aware of, as they may require extra veterinary attention. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. This not only leads to health problems for the dog but to an increase in vet bills for you. They can sometimes be found through Weimaraner or Poodle rescue agencies. They love to play with their family and are very alert about things going on around them. This trait makes them excellent watchdogs, and they will be more than happy to alert you to anyone at your door. They will do best in a home where someone is home at varying intervals throughout the day. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Even though they are good with children, interaction and playtime with kids should be supervised to ensure that both the kids and the dog are safe. As Weimardoodles enjoy having constant companionship, they are great dogs to help teach children the responsibility of pet ownership. This dog breed gets along well with other house pets if they are raised with them from a young age. They are less prone to developing separation anxiety when home alone if they have another pet to interact with. Weimardoodles are known to express feelings of jealousy if they feel that another pet in the household is getting more attention than they are and become overly attention-seeking. They will do well on a high-quality dog kibble that is appropriate for their age. On average, they will need two to three cups of food daily. They can also benefit from supplementation with multivitamins, probiotics, and fish oil. They will enjoy having a portion of this as their daily walk, with another portion spent playing in the yard or a nearby dog park where they can run freely. Swimming, toys, fetch, agility training is all great activities to do with your Weimardoodle. They do best with a nice-sized yard to play in; however, they do well in apartments with owners who are dedicated to giving them plenty of outdoor exercises. Strong leadership and positive reinforcement methods work well, and they respond to both treats and vocal praise as motivation. Depending on which traits your dog inherits from his parents, Weimardoodles can have strong hunting instincts and moments of stubbornness. Beginning obedience training early in life will help to tame these behaviors. If your Weimardoodle inherits the long coat of the Poodle parent, he will probably need brushing several times a week to avoid matting and tangles. This type of coat will also require trimming several times a year by a professional groomer. A good grooming schedule will provide your dog with a haircut about once every three months. On the plus side, Weimardoodles are very low-shedding or non-shedding dogs. They are considered hypoallergenic and a good breed choice for owners with allergies to pet dander. His teeth should also be brushed three to four times a week to eliminate bacteria and tartar buildup. Nails should be clipped once or twice a month when they get too long. Life Span Did You Know? This silver-gray coated pup is a loyal and loving dog. They have been bred for hunting large game and can be fierce guard dogs. Weimaraners originally hunted boars, bears, and deer with royalty until hunting trends shifted. Then, they were used to hunt fowl, rabbits, and foxes. This dog breed is also a fantastic water dog because of their webbed paws and slick fur. This dog breed is an energetic hunting dog. They are strong and are always happy to exercise or hunt for days on end. Weimaraners have an intense prey drive, so they will not do well with cats or other small pets. They can also be prone to barking if not trained properly, which will not only scare small animals but also other pets. These dogs can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone. If you can, always have someone at home with the dog or bring him with you. This people-oriented dog will be happy in an office setting or workshop. In case you have to leave your dog alone at home, you should offer mental stimulation such as food puzzles, toys, and calming noises. This will keep the pup from becoming destructive to themselves or property. A Weimaraner fits best if you have a growing family without other pets. They may be able to get along with another dog relative to their size, but be sure to introduce them before bringing them home. Because they are active, you will need to give your pup plenty of space inside as well as outside to romp, run, play, and explore. Weimaraners will be happy to go on family adventures with you and are surprisingly easy to travel with. Weimaraners are a generally healthy dog breed. They will need lots of exercise, a nourishing diet, and regular vet appointments to maintain optimal health. As these pups age, they are prone to gastric torsion, which is when the stomach twists and pinches blood vessels. It can lead to general distress, a swollen stomach, discomfort, no bowel movements, and even death if not surgically treated. Other than that, they are also prone to bloat, which can be treated by raising their feed dish and parsing out feedings throughout the day. Weimaraners have a low rate of dysplasia, but can fall ill from hypothyroidism, pituitary dwarfism, progressive retinal atrophy, and entropion. These dogs are fairly easy to train because they are intelligent and patient. However, if this is your first pet, you may want to hire a trainer to work with you. This is partly because they can become stubborn, are known to wander, and have a high prey drive. If you work with a trainer, you can work through these possible issues and gain confidence in your own training abilities. The Weimaraner has a silver-gray coat and short, smooth hair that requires minimal grooming. You should brush your dog weekly and bathe when necessary. After intense hikes, or swimming sessions, you will want to wash them off to avoid any mud or dirt being brought into your house. Because of their dangling ears, they can be prone to ear infections. You should check their ears weekly, then wipe them out using a gentle cleanser and cotton balls. If possible, brush their teeth every day. Finally, Weimaraners need to have their nails trimmed twice a month. They also need their paws moisturized frequently to keep them healthy and comfortable. You can make your own paw balm at home or buy some to help keep their paw pads healthy. These dogs are high-energy and are always eager to play with their family. Because of their intense energy levels they need at least one hour of walking per day. They may also need trips to the lake or dog park multiple times a week. This will help your Weimaraner be a calmer and healthier dog overall. The Weimaraner stands 23 to 27 inches tall and weighs 55 to 80 pounds. The Weimaraner usually lives 11 to 13 years. The Weimaraner has been a favorite of Presidents and artists alike. President Eisenhower brought his Weimaraner, Heidi, with him the to White House and this dog breed was a favorite of artist William Wegman. Featured Weimaraner Article. Here you will find a complete list of all the breeders we have located in the entire country! Sometimes it can be difficult to find the perfect breeder or any breeder locally if you are searching for a less popular breed. In order to make your search as easy and simple as possible we have combined all the breeders for each breed onto a single page. Use the links and contact information listed below to help you find your perfect puppy! It has a TON of great information that will help you on your journey to puppy parenthood! The Weimardoodle is a mixed-breed dog that combines the Poodle with a Weimaraner. These dogs, like all mixed breed dogs, do not have a standard, and it is impossible to predict which traits this dog inherits from its parental breeds. Often sold as "hypoallergenic" and "non-shedding," these dogs often surprise owners who have allergies by being heavy shedding and allergy triggering. These dogs often require significant exercise, grooming, and space and generally require firm, consistent training to deter aggressive tendencies. As you may have guessed, a Weimardoodle is a cross between a Poodle and a Weimaraner. Are you looking for more information about this wonderful exotic dog? Perhaps you already are a proud owner of a cute Weimardoodle puppy. What is a Weimardoodle? Weimardoodle is obtained by crossing a Standard Poodle with a Weimaraner. These relatively rare designer dogs need more attention and training than other dog breeds but, with the right direction, they can make excellent household companions. Other names for Weimardoodles are Weimaranerpoo, Weimaranerdoodle, and Weimarpoo. Weimaraners are active, playful, and spirited dogs that excel in dog sports like agility. They are used to hunting tirelessly for hours and are known for being one of the most energetic dog breeds. They also have excellent tracking abilities due to their sharp sense of smell. Poodles The Poodle is a versatile water dog that is completely non-shedding Poodles were also bred in Germany for duck hunting. Many people believe that Poodles may have some French Water Dog Barbet blood in them — although this may or may not be true. Today, Poodles are considered one of the most trainable dog breeds likely owing to their high intelligence. This, combined with the fact that they have a low-shedding coat, makes them very popular as house pets and companion dogs. Moreover, Poodles are often used in dog cross-breeding programs given their easy trainability and hypoallergenic coats. No one knows for sure exactly when the first Weimardoodle was created but it is estimated to have been around the s when breeders started registering these hybrid dogs with various Hybrid Canine Clubs like the ACH , etc. Physical Characteristics of Weimardoodle Weimardoodles are medium to large-sized dogs. Their height and weight are not standard since they are not purebred. Mini Weimardoodles with a Toy or Miniature Poodle parent are generally smaller, weighing less than 18kg and being less than 50cm tall. Weimardoodles could also have various coat colours like grey, black, brown, fawn, isabella, merle, white, etc. Are Weimardoodles Hypoallergenic? Weimardoodles may or may not be hypoallergenic since the Weimaraner parent breed is not hypoallergenic. If the Poodle gene is dominant and your Weimardoodle develops a tight, low-shedding, curly coat like the Poodle, then it could be hypoallergenic to some extent. However, if your pet develops a sleek, short or wire coat like the Weimaraner, then it will shed and trigger allergies in sensitive people. The F1b generation Weimarpoos are more likely to be low to non-shedding. This is because they are the result of crossing a Weimardoodle with a Poodle. Are Weimardoodles Easy to Groom? The short coat of a Weimaraner is relatively easy to groom at home, but a Poodle-type coat could need professional grooming. If your pet has floppy ears like the Weimaraner, do check them regularly for ear infections. Weimardoodles make excellent family dogs, but they will need plenty of training, mental stimulation and exercise. They also have tremendous patience, gritty determination, and perseverance. Both parent breeds were developed for hunting. The Weimaraner was bred for hunting large animals like deer, boar, and elk. Similarly, the highly-intelligent Poodles were developed for duck hunting. Resultantly, your Weimardoodle will need extensive exercise every day. This hybrid dog will do well in a house having a secured yard where it can run and play to expend that energy. Weimardoodles are also ideal for active individuals and families. These dogs need to go on hikes and runs and will not be satisfied being confined to kennels, apartments, or small spaces. Weimardoodles are also very intelligent as their Poodle parent and strong-willed and stubborn like their Weimaraner parent. Therefore, owners will need to put in a lot of effort and time in training these hybrid dogs. They also get distracted easily and need an owner who can give them the attention they need. It is important to start training your Weimardoodle as early as possible, as they could get aggressive as they grow older. They are especially quite hostile towards other house pets like cats but this behaviour can be overcome through early training and socialisation. Like their Weimaraner parent, Weimardoodles tend to chase and hunt small animals including small-sized dogs. Therefore, if you already have a small pet, you might want to reconsider your decision of bringing home a Weimaranerpoo. Despite their confident, curious, bold, and sassy nature, Weimardoodles are known to experience separation anxiety when left alone. Many tend to bark loudly and even turn to destruction or try to escape their surroundings. To minimise this from happening, Weimardoodle owners must provide appropriate outlets to their pets for channelling their energy. Interactive food puzzle toys such as snuffle mats, stuffed Kongs, licky mats and long-lasting chew treats are a must-have with this cross. Weimardoodles make fiercely loyal pets that are loving and affectionate towards their families but distrustful and wary towards strangers. Their intense loyalty combined with their loud barks makes them excellent watchdogs. You can always train your dog to be more accepting of people through early socialisation. Some dog trainers might incorrectly advise you teach your pet its position in the family pecking order from an early age. Explaining that failure to do so could make your Doodle bossy, confused, untrusting, inconsistent, and full of bad habits. This is based on the old science of Dominance Theory which has been staunchly disproven. Always use positive reinforcement-based training and never resort to using punishment or dominance. Dog training methods that are based on fear and intimidation will damage the relationship you have with your poodle mix and create avoidance behaviours. What is the Price of a Weimardoodle? These hybrid dogs are extremely rare in Australia, which makes them difficult to find. Some breeders charge more for semi-trained older puppies. The price of a Weimaraner Poodle Mix puppy could also increase if the parent dogs are champions or show-winning dogs. What to Feed a Weimardoodle? Your vet or breeder can be your best guide for selecting the right food for your pet. These days, there are many commercial dog foods available but some of them are filled with corn and soy so you must learn to read food labels. It is important to only feed premium foods having high-quality ingredients and human-grade proteins. These tend to cost more but will be better for your pet in the long run. You can also choose to make dog food at home — that way, you can select only the best ingredients and leave the bad stuff out. In any case, check the weight chart and determine how much your Doodle should eat. Weimardoodles tend to have fewer health issues compared to their parent dog breeds. Nevertheless, the diseases one gets to see in Weimardoodles generally come from both dog breeds. Weimaraners are also known for having heart-related issues like cardiomyopathy, atrial septal defects, and tricuspid valve dysplasia. To help protect your Weimardoodle from these health problems, always select your puppy from one of the best breeders. Responsible breeders conduct various health tests and genetic tests on their dogs before breeding them. You can also learn as much as you can about these health issues so you can catch them early on and prevent them from escalating. Weimardoodle Lifespan Most Weimardoodles live for an average of years. 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Anatolian Shepherds are large dogs with an independent spirit, protective nature, and a working dog disposition. They are loyal to their families and are friendly, loving, and affectionate towards them. If an Anatolian Shepherd Mix takes after their Anatolian Shepherd parent, you should be able to expect something similar from them. Although Anatolian Shepherds are hardworking and tend to be natural guardians, they also tend to get along well with children and other animals that are part of the family. These dogs tend to have a calm and patient disposition and a friendly, loving personality towards their families. Their protective instincts mean that they are naturally suspicious of strangers. The Anatolian Shepherd is moderately adaptable and is better suited to a home with a securely fenced yard. They have a high prey drive, which means they also have an urge to chase in addition to wandering and patrolling their property. Unless the other parent breed has traits that would affect these things, you can likely expect something similar in an Anatolian Shepherd Mix. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than their purebred counterparts? A mixed-breed dog can inherit any of the health conditions common to one, both, or neither of their parents. Because of that, you want to make sure you know about the other parent breed, so you know what potential things to be aware of. For the Anatolian Shepherd, potential health conditions include sensitivity to anesthesia, entropion, elbow dysplasia, and hip dysplasia. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing on issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. Although Anatolian Shepherds are highly intelligent and pick up on things quickly, they also tend to be stubborn, independent, and strong-willed. This, paired with their hardworking nature and need to have a job, can be difficult for first-time dog owners to handle. The other parent breed may introduce traits that could make an Anatolian Shepherd Mix a better fit for first-time dog owners. But, again, this is not a guarantee. So, you should be prepared to enroll in puppy training classes. These classes can be a great idea regardless because they often offer opportunities to socialize a puppy. An Anatolian Shepherd Mix can inherit a coat similar to either of their parents or they can inherit one that is a blend of both. The grooming required will depend on the coat types of the parents and the potential combinations that are possible. Should an Anatolian Shepherd Mix inherit the Anatolian Shepherd coat, they will have a dense double coat. They will shed moderately with heavier shedding during seasonal changes. Weekly brushing, brushing more often during seasonal shifts, and bathing as needed are usually sufficient to care for this type of coat. But, many owners overlook dental care for dogs. This is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. The Anatolian Shepherd needs daily walks, some time to run or extra activity, and a job to do to be happy and healthy. They tend to run a more moderate energy level and should only be let off-leash in secure areas. If the other parent breed is also a moderate energy dog breed, you should be able to expect a similar energy level in an Anatolian Shepherd Mix. If the other parent breed has a different energy level, you will want to make sure you are prepared for a dog that could fall anywhere in that potential range. An Anatolian Shepherd is large dog breed that is inches tall and pounds when fully-grown. You can also meet the mother dog in person to get an idea of potential size. Anatolian Shepherds tend to live years. The other parent breed may affect this slightly, but you should be able to expect a similar life span in an Anatolian Shepherd Mix. Featured Anatolian Shepherd Mix Article. Originally bred in Turkey as livestock guardians, Anatolian Shepherd dogs made their way to the U. Their ability to protect livestock has made them a highly sought-after working breed, and Anatolian Shepherds have even been employed to protect endangered cheetahs in Namibia, Africa. Bred for their ability to independently guard livestock, this hardworking breed is loyal to both their families and flock. Because of this, the dogs need an experienced pet parent to guide and socialize them. They require a family that understands the traits of the breed and can manage the responsibility that comes with them. Anatolian Shepherd Health Issues Anatolian Shepherds are generally healthy and hardy, but reputable breeders should screen for certain growth and eye disorders. Growth Disorders Elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia occur when the bones of the elbow or hip joints do not align appropriately. This causes rubbing and grinding of the bones that, over time, results in joint deterioration and loss of function. Elbow and hip dysplasia can be hereditary conditions in Anatolian Shepherds, but the conditions can also be exacerbated by contributing factors such as exercise habits, weight, and nutrition. Treatment varies depending on severity. In most cases, veterinarians can easily diagnose and treat the dog with surgical intervention. This means it can sometimes take longer for them to recover from anesthesia, and your veterinarian will be mindful of this and closely monitor your dog when anesthesia is used. Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus Gastric dilatation and volvulus GDV is a severe form of bloat in dogs that can affect any deep-chested breed, including Anatolian Shepherds. The increase in pressure from the gas builds up, causing the stomach to expand and putting pressure on the diaphragm. This impedes normal breathing and prevents major veins from returning blood flow to the heart. Decreased blood flow causes a loss of blood to the stomach and, when combined with the high pressure from within, can lead to rupture. It's important to know when your Anatolian Shepherd may be showing signs of GDV, as this can be a life-threatening condition. Seek immediate veterinary care if any of these signs are noted: Distended abdomen General signs of abdominal pain, such as standing and stretching or drooling What To Feed an Anatolian Shepherd Selecting the best diet for an Anatolian Shepherd comes down to the needs of the individual dog. In general, Anatolian Shepherds do well on a large-breed diet formulated for their current life stage; Anatolian Shepherd puppies should be fed a large-breed puppy food before transitioning to an adult formula. To help prevent this life-threatening condition, feed your Anatolian Shepherd at least two or three small meals throughout the day and avoid exercise around mealtimes. Adult Anatolian Shepherds can weigh between pounds, which means the amount of food they require daily can vary. Omega-3 supplements also aid in protecting joint health, and keep their skin and coat healthy. Their instinctive nature to protect their loved ones makes them good dogs in families with older children who understand how to interact with dogs. However, Anatolian Shepherds might be best in homes without smaller children, who can easily be knocked down by an accidental bump from a pound dog. When Anatolian Shepherd puppies are introduced at a young age, they typically get along well with other pets. Anatolian Shepherd Behavior Anatolian Shepherds were bred for thousands of years to be guardians. This means they tend to bark— especially if they perceive a threat toward their home or territory. Anatolian Shepherd Training Anatolian Shepherds were originally bred to independently guard a flock, and that independent personality has persisted over time. Their need for independence often comes off as stubbornness, and it can make training challenging. But as with all breeds, consistency and positive reinforcement provide the best outcomes. Fun Activities for Anatolian Shepherds Working on farms Water sports and swimming Anatolian Shepherd Grooming Guide Anatolian Shepherds have a short—but thick—double coat designed to protect them as they work outdoors. Though they shed moderately all year, their coats are relatively low-maintenance. Coat Care Anatolian Shepherds have an undercoat that sheds twice a year, and pet parents need to keep up with thorough brushing every few days to remove dead hair. Outside of this biannual coat blowing, their short outer coat is smooth and only requires weekly brushing for maintenance. Eye Care Though Anatolian Shepherd puppies can be born with entropion, a genetic eye condition, they are not typically prone to tear stains or other eye issues. If you notice excessive tearing, eye discharge , or redness, take your pup to the veterinarian, as these can all be signs of entropion. This should also be done any time your dog has been in water, such as after swimming or bathing. These dogs do best in experienced homes with families that are prepared for the responsibility of owning this large, independent, and protective breed. Early socialization is key to help prevent an Anatolian Shepherd puppy from thinking everything new is a threat. And while Anatolian Shepherds are not often found excelling in obedience championships because of their desire for independent thinking, with patience and routine they can be very well-mannered companions. Because of their long history as livestock guardians, Anatolian Shepherds do tend to bark, especially when they perceive a threat to their flock or home. Are Kangal dogs and Anatolian Shepherds the same? However, the Kangal dog is slightly larger and has a longer coat. And while both were bred as independent livestock guardians, Kangal dogs are known to be more affectionate toward their families, while Anatolian Shepherds tend to prefer their independence. How big do Anatolian Shepherds get? Adult males can weigh pounds and stand an average of 29 inches. Female Anatolian Shepherds average pounds and grow to be 27 inches tall. Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? Even in Europe, however, they are still costly dogs due to their relative rarity and usefulness. The German Anatolian Shepherd is a rare mix, and those who want one will frequently get them purposefully bred. When you welcome a German Anatolian Shepherd into your home, you can expect to have a serious and territorial dog. They are gentle giants that need plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation to avoid boredom. Early socialization is more important than usual for this crossbreed. The German Anatolian Shepherd is a cross of two dogs well-known for being protective and territorial. They were bred to have these traits hundreds of years ago. In modern-day homes, this territorial behavior can come across as aggression and may not be useful anymore. If you want your German Anatolian Shepherd pup to get along well with other dogs or behave benignly when a neighbor comes over, training them through socialization as early in their lives as possible is essential. German Anatolian Shepherds can trace their history past the Byzantine era. These dogs have been bred by two parents that can trace their lineage and usefulness all over the world. The German Shepherds were developed in Europe in the late s to act as herding and guarding animals over their flock. They have boundless energy bred into them. To understand the history of the Anatolian Shepherds, we must look to Turkey. Long before the country of Turkey was even established some say 6, years ago! They were crossed with similar dogs from this point to allow them to blend into the flock better and make them more effective protectors. German Shepherds were one of the first police dogs. As many of us know from Hollywood movies, German Shepherds are common dogs to see in the police force nowadays. Their breeding set them up well for this task because the Germans initially bred the most loyal, obedient, and responsive dogs. Before they even came to America, the Germans began to train them as police dogs. This assumption turned out to be true. By , the dogs had spread throughout the force, placed as police dogs in more than of the largest cities. They have only continued to spread throughout the world, along with stories of their bravery and intelligence. Anatolian Shepherds are typically serious dogs that take seriously whatever job they are assigned. They usually are patient, gentle giants. Although they are not guaranteed to be aggressive with strangers, they are naturally territorial. That patience and gentility can quickly disappear with the arrival of newcomers. These dogs are independent and have powerful instincts that they strictly follow. The German Shepherd, on the other hand, can have personality types that range from independent to social, quickly severe, and irritated to excitable and jumpy. The best way to get a somewhat accurate idea about the temperament of your new pup is to talk to the breeder. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Although they can offer protection and a gentle spirit, they generally present too much of an unknown for busy family situations. If the desire for the dog is stuck firmly in your heart, just know that more care needs to be taken around these dogs, as well as extra training. In this breed, this is primarily down to the amount of socialization they receive. Socialization should also be a distinct layer of their training to shape the way they act toward new pets and people. Take care when introducing a new pet to the house, no matter the breed. Once they have chosen them as a friend, they will not have any other issues. The German Anatolian Shepherd is quite an active dog. If they have inherited more of the German Shepherd genes, they will want to be extremely active. Look for a dog food formulated especially for large dog breeds. Try also to find one made for high-energy dogs, which should have extra protein content. These dogs need around 4 cups of food a day. Keep variation in their diet, supplementing kibble with green beans, cooked rice, and sweet potatoes. They will thank you for it, as will their digestive and immune systems. The combination with the high-energy German Shepherd makes for a great deal of required activity each week. The recommendation is to keep these dogs in an area with a large yard to run in, to help burn some of that energy off. They need around two hours of consistent activity each day, making them great working farm dogs. Take them on long runs or walks, hikes, or to the dog park. It is recommended that they run, walk, or hike around 14 miles each week to keep healthy. One of the most important things to remember about Anatolian Shepherds and any of its crosses is that brain stimulation is just as important as physical. These dogs are not only intelligent but also prone to negative and destructive behavior if they get bored. German Shepherds are one of the most trainable dogs in the world, bred to be responsive. Anatolian Shepherds, though, are stubborn and independent. When training this dog, establish your dominance early on. Take care not to be aggressive or oppressive because this will only exacerbate issues with stubbornness. Although, it can be quite the chore when it comes to their grooming and shedding. They keep themselves clean, though, and only need bathing a couple of times a year. To deal with its coat, brush them out two to four times each week. This process removes the dead hair and prevents any tangling in the coat. Use a pin brush to detangle and a slicker brush, de-matter, and a comb to prevent as much shedding around the home as possible. As with any dog breed, watch their nails and trim them when needed. Since German Anatolian Shepherds can have floppy ears, they are somewhat prone to ear infections. Check their ears and clean them at least once a week to prevent any problems. The German Shepherd is known to suffer from many joint and heart problems as it ages. To try and avoid adopting a puppy with a bad health record, check the health of the parents with the breeder. Minor Conditions. Less - The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is built tough to do a tough job. It is a large, powerful, rugged dog, having both great agility and endurance. It has good bone and a large head. Its gait is powerful, smooth and fluid. Its coat consists of a thick undercoat and an outer coat that ranges from short about 1 inch to rough about 4 inches , slightly longer around the neck and mane. Its expression is intelligent, and the general impression it gives is one of a bold yet calm protector. This is a serious dog, devoted to its family and its duty as family protector. At the same time, it is laid back-and easygoing, never on the lookout for trouble. It is suspicious of strangers and is territorial. It is good with children, but it may not be playful enough to satisfy children's desires. As a serious watchdog , it tends to bark a lot when its suspicions are aroused. History The Anatolian Shepherd is a shepherd's guard dog of ancient lineage; probably descended from the large hunting dogs existing in Mesopotamia. The breed has evolved over the ages to suit a specific set of circumstances. Of these, the most formative are the climate hot and very dry summers; very cold winters , the people's lifestyles from settled to semi- and wholly nomadic , and the work assigned to the dogs. They guard flocks traveling great distances on the Central Anatolian Plateau, staying out through all weather conditions. Note: sensitive to barbiturate anesthesia History The Anatolian Shepherd is an ancient guardian breed with a long working history. Here they proved invaluable as staunch defenders of livestock against formidable predators, including wolves and bears. Several traits that remained constant throughout all the breed, however, are loyalty, independence, and hardiness. The name Shepherd is a misnomer because the breed was never used as a herder. There is disagreement over whether the Anatolian is a separate breed from the Kangal or Karabash dog. The first of the breed did not come to America until the s, where although they proved themselves as effective livestock guards against coyotes and other predators, they remained relatively unknown. Only in the late s and s did the Anatolian Shepherd begin to be more widely appreciated, still valued for its utilitarian, rather than cosmetic, attributes. Pet owners desiring a loyal and effective guardian began to acquire the breed. In , the Anatolian Shepherd was accepted in the AKC Working Group, and they continue to have strong working instincts above all else. Anatolians are used for cheetah conservation in Africa by protecting livestock from cheetahs. Related Content.

They have a short muzzle and have been bred to have an even and pleasant temperament which makes them a great companion for families with children. They are very playful in nature and even have some hilarious moments as they thrive for human attention and long, lasting friendships. French Bulldogs are typically less than 28 pounds. They're consistently in the top 10 of most popular registered dog breeds in America. Before you start asking where can I find a "French Bulldog for sale near me" you need to make sure it's the right breed for you. Here is everything you need to know about French Bulldogs, including their history, appearance, disposition, activity level, care needs, and cost. History French Bulldogs are the result of a cross between Toy Bulldogs imported from England and local ratter dogs in Paris, France, in the s. The breed was then exported to France, where it became known as the Bouledogue Francais. In , these dogs were brought back to England and they eventually made their way to America. Frenchies are now their own specific breed. Appearance When it comes to appearance, the number one thing people associate with them are their large, bat-like ears that are set high on their heads. French Bulldog puppies for sale typically have a stocky build with short legs, a large head, and a stubby tail. A French Bulldog puppy has a wrinkly appearance and a short nose and muzzle. French Bulldogs typically weigh between 20 and 28 pounds and stand 12 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder. Their incredibly gorgeous, short-haired and long-haired coats come in several colors and patterns, such as fawn, tan, brown, chocolate, cocoa, blue or dilute, cream, lilac, Isabella, black, brindle, piebald, and merle. Disposition If you're looking for a small, lovable companion dog, you can't go wrong with a Frenchie. These dogs are known for their affectionate, gentle nature and loving, easygoing personality, and they make great pets for families with children. They can be lively and hilarious. Searching for "French Bulldog puppies near me for sale" and finding the right pup will leave you a companion dog through and through. They love nothing more than to cuddle up with their favorite person and they make excellent lap dogs. They do well in homes with children and other pets, although they can be a bit boisterous at times. They don't bark much and don't like to be left alone for long periods of time. French Bulldog puppies thrive in any environment from apartments to rural areas. Activity Level Looking for French Bulldogs for sale may have you wondering how much exercise a Frenchie requires to be happy and healthy. They are relatively inactive dogs and don't require a lot of exercise, although they do enjoy occasional walks and playtime. They are a great choice for busy people. You won't need a large yard for a Frenchie. Grooming Requirements French Bulldogs are relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming needs. They can have a short coat that is smooth and soft to the touch. Some long-haired French Bulldog puppies are called Fluffies. When it comes to grooming, French Bulldog puppies only need to be brushed occasionally, and their nails should be trimmed regularly. They are also moderate shedders, so you'll need to do some regular vacuuming to keep your home clean. Training Opting for a French Bulldog puppy for sale is the perfect choice if you're looking for a funny, even-tempered, social pup. Training them can be more challenging since they are so incredibly stubborn. These dogs have big personalities and a mind of their own. You can make training a French Bulldog puppy into a game and offer rewards like food or treats, praise, and playtime. However, with consistency and motivation, their people-pleasing personality will have them trained in no time. Cost If you're wondering, where can I find a "French Bulldog puppy for sale near me? French Bulldog puppies for sale can be higher priced due to their coat length, genetic makeup, and rare coat colors, including which genes they carry, such as the intensity coat color gene variant, dilution, merle, lilac, or Isabella. They also have some health problems that can be expensive to treat, such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and respiratory issues, so be aware of these expenses in addition to regular veterinarian care. However, with proper care, a Frenchie can be a loving and loyal companion for years to come. When looking for Frenchies for sale, it's crucial to factor in the ongoing costs beyond just the initial price. Food, toys, veterinary care, vaccinations, and other ongoing expenses should be taken into consideration. For instance, if you're planning to travel with a fluffy friend, be ready to pay for a pet-friendly transportation service. However, for many owners, the joy and companionship that these beautiful pups provide are well worth the investment. If you're looking for French Bulldog puppies near me, be sure to research breeders carefully. A trustworthy breeder with Frenchie puppies for sale will provide documentation of vaccinations and other health records for their puppies. A good breeder will also be happy to answer any questions you have about the breed, including size, temperament, and grooming needs — so don't be afraid to ask away! Some unscrupulous breeders are known for selling sick or poorly-bred puppies, so it's important to find a reputable source like Pawrade offering happy, healthy French Bulldog puppies for sale through pre-screened breeders. Why Pawrade? Finding a reputable breeder has never been easier Ready to find your perfect French Bulldog? Pawrade is dedicated to connecting loving families with a dog that needs a home. Using Pawrade to browse for a French Bulldog for sale is a reliable way to ensure that you get a dog from a reputable breeder. Our focus is on the health of the dog and ethical, sustainable breeding practices. We ensure that the breeders on our platform are genuine, so you have peace of mind in knowing that you are receiving exactly what you expect. If you've always dreamed of owning this type of dog, choose Pawrade for your French Bulldog for sale and begin a new chapter in your life today! Stop searching for "French Bulldog puppies near me" — you've come to the right place! We understand just how difficult it is to find a legitimate breeder, so we've put our experience and expertise to work for you. Why wait any longer? Browse through our vast selection of puppies for sale from a safe and reputable source. No Puppy Mill Pledge We have zero tolerance toward puppy mills and pride ourselves in connecting you with honest and reputable breeders where puppies are raised with love and compassion. Learn More Health Guarantee As fellow puppy owners, we know the importance of having a happy and healthy puppy. Every puppy is backed by our comprehensive health guarantee. We produce all of the brindles in black, blue, chocolate, lilac , fawns and sables in golden, red, blue, chocolate, lilac , creams, pure coats and tan points in black, blue, chocolate, lilac , and pieds in ALL of these beautiful colors! Call Us Are you ready to own the most popular dog breed in the U. We appreciate you visiting our site, whether you have been here many times in the past, or if this is the first time you have paid us a visit. We hope that the time you spend with us will be enjoyable, and that you will feel it is worth your time and effort. Of course, we invite you to come back as often as time permits, as we have provided a lot of information regarding the French Bulldog, and we doubt if you will cover everything in one visit. Under Owner Information, you will find a lot of information to help you determine if the French Bulldog is the breed for you. There are also FAQs for New Owners, if you have made the decision to adopt one of these wonderful dogs. Under Owner Info, you will also find several products that we use and highly endorse. We then have the unpleasant talk about scammers, who are rampant in the puppy arena, especially regarding French Bulldog puppies. If you see a deal that sounds too good to be true, there is a .It breaks our hearts every time we are contacted by someone who has been scammed, or nearly scammed. Please be careful. Lastly, under Owner Info, you will find information regarding our contract and our guarantee, which we believe is one of the best available, and it is the least we will do in the unlikely event that there is a problem with one of our dogs. Under Our Frenchies, you will find information regarding our breeding males, our females which have puppies on the ground, and retirees that are ready for their forever homes. We are very proud of the breeding male and females we have assembled. You can click on Former Puppies and scroll down to see a few examples of all of the various colors that Frenchies come in that we have produced in the past. We know that the different colors can be a bit confusing, so we have tried to make it as straight forward as possible. The only problem is that there are so many gorgeous colors that they come in, a decision regarding color preferences can be difficult .Also, under Our Frenchies, you can click on New Puppies to see all of our currently available puppies, along with a list of the litters that are born, but not yet introduced. We have placed multiple puppies in every state of the union except Hawaii, as they have a very long quarantine period. We have been using very responsible puppy nannies for years to deliver puppies to major airports all over the country, for very reasonable rates. We would love to work with you to place the perfect little Frenchie in your home. Some of our puppies, especially very specific requests, are placed with clients on our waiting list, but many are available to potential clients that are looking for puppies right away. If you are looking for a high-quality Frenchie puppy, please contact us and we will send information which will help you determine if we might be the breeder for you. We will do our best to help you adopt the Frenchie of your dreams. We do not post earlier videos. All of the puppies shown in the videos will have had their vet checks and will be available for adoption with the exception of a few that we may belatedly decide to hold back. Generally, those that we will be holding back will not be included in the videos. As a reminder to each of our Waiting List clients who have passed on prior puppies due to poor timing, when you are ready for your puppy, please let us know so we do not bypass your name when we are placing new litters. Meeting the puppy Nanny was easy and smooth at the airport! Hank was love at first sight. Happy Holidays! Just thought I would write to give you an update on our Dieter. Thank you again for doing what you do, and raising such amazing dogs! Dieter is loved by all who meet him, and he has met several people on his adventures this year. He is such a mischievous, but entertaining boy. He is the sweetest, craziest, cutest, cuddliest, puppy! Hi everyone! Just wanted to give you guys an update on Hank Mowgli. He is the center of every minute in my girls day. There were tears of joy and excitement — it was wonderful! Night went well — I had my hand in her kennel so she could sleep — she would make sure it was there and then fall back to […] Danielle, Rich and Rowan Hi BlueHaven!! Hope all is well! Rich and I would like to thank you for the care and love you put into your breeding program. Rowan is a healthy and fun-loving Frenchie! We hope all is well in your neck of the woods. All is well here. Originally, when we listed our preferred colors, we did not select brindle, but as you can see, once we saw GiGi, […] Catherine, Nick, Kolbie, Natty, and Dieter Dieter had an awesome first night. Hope you had a Happy Thanksgiving! Just wanted to send an update on Pearl formerly Sinah. At nearly 4 months old now; Pearl is doing very, very well. She had her 3rd series of shots and vet check last week and is perfectly healthy. French Bulldog French Bulldog Puppies for Sale Recognized for their large, bat-like ears, the French bulldog resembles a charming miniature version of the large Bulldog. Today Frenchies are also among the most popular of small dog breeds and are quick to embody large quantities of smarts, comical expressions, and playful moments. Many French Bulldogs are quick to flaunt a mind of their own and have no problem adopting stubborn behaviors. So be sure to begin training while your puppy is still young to avoid obnoxious doggy behaviors. French bulldogs are highly adaptable and are happy to settle into either a tiny city apartment or a sprawling countryside dwelling. Always avoid excessive heat during those daily walks. Early mornings or cool evenings are preferred with a French Bulldog as they simply prefer life cooler. Born companions, Frenchies adore their humans and love a good friend. Never leave your Frenchy alone for long periods of time as they highly dislike chilling by themselves. In appearance, French Bulldogs carry a compact and muscular build with a heavy boned structure. Their easy-care coat is smooth to the touch and presents a gleaming, fine texture. You can rest at ease when your French Bulldog is on guard duty. These favorite little buddies are selective in their barking and yap only when necessary. Little Frenchies are an ideal match for a vast variety of lifestyles and have proven themselves to be great friends with people and other animals who cross their paths. Learn more about the French Bulldog breed here. Related searches:.

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. Questions about French Bulldog puppies for sale in St. Louis, MO? We have answers. What should I know about French Bulldog puppies for sale near St. French Bulldogs are an increasingly popular breed of small yet sturdy and energetic dogs. They require ample exercise and love to play, but are also content to curl up in a basket, making them an ideal companion for many. As a breed, they tend to bond closely with their human family and are known for their loyalty and intelligence. French Bulldogs are among the most friendly of breeds and have earned a reputation for being low maintenance. A key health requirement for French Bulldogs is proper cooling, as they do not tolerate warm climates well. Are French Bulldog puppies for sale in St. Louis hypoallergenic? French Bulldogs are not considered hypoallergenic, however they do tend to have less dander and shed less than other breeds, making them a better choice for people with mild allergies. Even though they are less likely to cause an allergic reaction, there is still a chance that even French Bulldogs can produce enough dander and allergens to bother people with severe allergies. It's always important to remember that the only way to know for sure if a particular breed will cause an allergy flareup is to spend time with one and observe how you react. Do St. Louis French Bulldog puppies for sale have special dietary needs? Yes, French Bulldogs have unique dietary needs. Unlike other breeds, they are more prone to suffer from some health issues, such as overheating and digestive problems. Therefore, they might require a special diet that keeps their body temperature down and improves their overall gut health. It's important to provide your Frenchie with high quality food that includes a balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. It's best to avoid foods that are high in fat as these can lead to obesity and various other health problems. Do French Bulldog puppies in St. Louis have any kind of special requirements? Yes, French Bulldogs do have certain needs that should be taken into account. They require daily exercise, proper nutrition, regular visits to the vet, routine brushing, and a combination of mental and physical stimulation. Additionally, due to their short faces and breathing difficulties, French Bulldogs should not participate in strenuous exercise for long periods of time. They are also prone to overheating, so it's important to make sure they are in a cool, comfortable environment. How fast do French Bulldogs for sale in St. Louis grow? It is difficult to predict how big your French Bulldog puppy will be when they reach adulthood as there are many factors that go into determining a pup's adult size, including nutrition and genetics. On average, an adult French Bulldog is inches tall and weighs pounds. However, some may be on the smaller end while others could be above or below these estimates. Generally, males tend to be larger than females, so it may be easier to get a more accurate estimation of your puppy's adult size if you know the gender. How many minutes per day should I walk French Bulldog puppies near St. The amount of exercise you should give your French Bulldog depends on its age, breed, and individual energy levels. A healthy French Bulldog needs around 30 minutes of exercise per day. This could include walking, playtime, or activities like fetch, fetch-and-release, and obstacle courses. Aim to split the exercise into two minute sessions. This ensures that your dog is receiving adequate exercise while also avoiding fatigue. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that the intensity of the exercise should match your dog's energy level. Are French Bulldogs in St. Louis good family dogs? French Bulldogs are ideal family pets, as they are bred to be loving and affectionate companions. They are loyal, gentle, and enjoy playing with children, as well as being protective of their families. French Bulldogs are also suitable for apartment living due to their small size, and they require minimal exercise, making them an ideal breed for city living. They are intelligent and easily trainable, so they make excellent companions for novice owners. Add to this their attractive and unique physical appearance, and it's easy to see why the French Bulldog is so popular for families. How do I train my St. Louis French Bulldogs for sale? Training your French Bulldog can be a rewarding and fun experience when approached with the right mindset. It's important to remember to be consistent, patient, and to always implement positive reinforcement techniques. Begin by teaching your French Bulldog basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down, using treats as a reward for good behavior. Encourage your pet to obey these training sessions by praising them for doing the right thing. As they get used to responding to the basic commands, increase the difficulty of each lesson by adding distractions and increased distances. More French Bulldog Puppies for sale near St. Louis, MO. Although spaying or neutering is not compulsory, it is highly advisable to spay your French Bulldog. This will help to decrease its chances of getting certain kinds of cancer. It also prevents the risk of unwanted breeding between your French Bulldog and any nearby dog. Are French Bulldogs Aggressive? French Bulldogs have the potential to be aggressive. However, they are not usually aggressive unless they are trained that way. It is important to note that they may show aggression towards other dogs or smaller animals. Owners should watch out for signs of aggression and nip them in the bud. What is the life expectancy of a French Bulldog? With a proper diet and nutrition, French Bulldogs can live for up to eleven or thirteen years. Can French Bulldogs eat raw meat? French Bulldogs can eat raw meat such as chicken, liver or kidney. They could also eat canned, dry food. What is the difference between a French Bulldog and an English Bulldog? French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs are quite similar but different at the same time. English bulldogs are bigger while the French Bulldog is considerably smaller. French Bulldogs also have upright pointy ears whereas the English breed has folded ears. Do I have to worry about fleas with French Bulldogs? Just like all other breeds, French Bulldogs can get fleas. If they do get fleas, this can be solved by getting flea medicine or using a flea comb to get rid of the fleas. How do you deal with separation anxiety in French Bulldogs? French Bulldogs are very prone to separation anxiety. To curb this, owners can crate train their dogs or provide them with chew toys. What is the best way to train your French Bulldog? Crate training is one of the best ways to train your French Bulldog. It helps to create good and positive behavior in your Frenchie and could be a fun place for it to rest. Are French Bulldogs children-friendly? French Bulldogs are not the best option for kids. However, if they grow up surrounded by children, the risk could be lessened. They should not be left unsupervised around kids. How big are French Bulldogs? The French Bulldog is about 11 or 12 inches tall and weighs an average of pounds. Are you interested in purchasing a French Bulldog? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Breeds The link has been copied! Few dogs are as intelligent and loyal as German Shepherds. With its athletic build and remarkable drive, this working breed makes excellent companions, herding dogs, police K-9s, and therapy animals. How much does a German Shepherd cost? The price of a German Shepherd puppy can vary a lot from one breeder to another. German Shepherds are active and need plenty of stimulation. Flea and tick preventatives are a must-have. You might face additional costs such as pet insurance, training classes, boarding fees, or dog walkers. Puppies tend to cost more due to the high demand. However, professional breeders charge a lot more. Professional breeders usually conduct health testing for the parents. Elbow and hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy are the two main tests to look for when adopting a GSD puppy. Prenatal care for the mother can be expensive. These costs can include bloodwork, ultrasounds, and X-rays. Most breeders raise the puppies for the first eight to 12 weeks. They provide nutrition, a living space, socialization, and sometimes early training. Puppies typically receive veterinary care, including a first round of booster shots and a deworming treatment. Colors German Shepherds can come in a few different colors. Black and tan and black and cream are the most common GSD colors. However, there are rarer colors, like black and silver, sable, or black. These colors meet the official breed standards, and a puppy with an unusual color can be worth more. Bloodline and Purity One of the key factors that influences the cost of a GSD puppy is the parents and their pedigrees. A breeder will look at how well the parents match the AKC breed standards. Both parents should be the right height and color. They should have a muscular morphology and the proper head shape. Breeders who are able to trace the ancestry of a litter over several generations and document that all the ancestors are purebred GSDs will charge more. You should also expect to pay more if a breeder can provide health testing information over several generations. Titles are another important factor. Show dogs can receive V, VA, or VA1 titles if they do well at an event and judges determine they meet all the standards of the breed. An IGP3 title indicates that a dog can protect its owner. Parents with IGP or IPO titles produce puppies that are worth more since breeders consider these animals to have excellent potential for training. A breeder who has an excellent reputation and many positive online reviews will attract more prospective dog owners and can afford to charge more. You can protect your dog with a microchip, but there are other steps you can take. The Fi GPS tracking dog collar helps you keep your dog safe. The design is highly resistant and waterproof for durability, and the collar comes with a battery that lasts three months. You can track your pet anywhere and locate them easily if they get lost. There are a few things you should know about this working breed. Personality of the German Shepherd German Shepherds are fiercely loyal. They make excellent guard dogs thanks to their protective instincts. They also make amazing pets who will give you lots of affection. GSDs are reliable and hardworking dogs who thrive if you constantly give them new tasks and challenges. These dogs are extremely versatile. German Shepherds have amazing potential and tend to do extremely well in training thanks to their drive and intelligence. However, they require consistent training and handling since they can be mouthy, chase prey, or become overprotective without the right training. Size and Weight German Shepherds are medium to large dogs. When it comes to weight, a healthy male will weigh 66 to 88 lbs. Lifestyle and Activity Levels German Shepherds are a working breed. Their origin dates back to the 19th century when dog breeder Max Von Stephanitz developed a new dog by breeding different herding dogs. Like all shepherds, GSDs have a strong need to stay active. Due to their athletic build, these dogs need at least two hours of exercise every day. Going for walks might not be sufficient. Your GSD will thrive if you provide plenty of opportunities to use their athletic abilities, including jumping, swimming, or running. Approximate Lifetime Care Costs The total cost of owning a German Shepherd is difficult to estimate since every animal is different. German Shepherds can be expensive. Here are a few tips to help you lower the cost. Look for a breeder who cares about the animals and who does health testing on the parents, but everything else is extra. You should also consider adopting a dog with an unknown lineage. Check local shelters or go online to look at classified ads. Check classified ads to find owners rehoming their pets. If you decide to get a German Shepherd, think about using the Fi GPS dog collar to keep your dog safe, and make sure you can bring your puppy home if she gets lost. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Reactivity Pulling on the leash Many German Shepherd owners enroll their dogs in weekly training classes, either in a group setting or one-on-one with a trainer. Your German Shepherd should be fed premium food. Your puppy will eat a lot throughout his first three years of life due to his high energy and exercise requirements. Weekly training is required if your dog has behavioral issues such as separation anxiety or aggression. Some owners hire a professional groomer to control the excessive shedding and maintain the charismatic physical attributes of their canines. Remember, the following estimates are based on reports from German Shepherd owners. Depending on where you live and how you raise your pet, they may be higher or lower. Forbes, on the other hand, anticipated that the cost would be considerably higher. The military and police commonly use black German Shepherd puppies. However, the genetic constitution resulting in anything other than the combination of black and tan shades is rare. Black German Shepherds have a procreated due to the presence of a recessive gene that causes them to possess a black coat. This raises the price of GSD puppies by a factor of two. Furthermore, it is important to mention here that German Shepherds can change color as they become older, even if they were born black or grey. GSD puppies are born black to keep their black color until they are matured. The cost of a German Shepherd is mostly determined by its size, breed, and where it is purchased. The most costly German Shepherds are those who have been trained as working or show dogs as adults. Furthermore, if the German Shepherd puppy comes from a line of German Shepherds with exceptional hunting or exhibiting skills, you may have to pay hundreds of dollars for it. This is due to the fact that German Shepherd puppies from a line of hunting or exhibiting champions are more likely to develop the same characteristics as compared to litters procreated from normal parents. Even from a respectable breeder, the latter can be had for a few hundred dollars. Finding the proper breeder is a difficult task itself. In comparison to puppy farms, responsible breeders are few and far between. Are there any criteria you can use to ensure the breeder is legitimate, aside from checking the AKC list of registered breeders? There is, indeed! To begin, make a quick list of desirable and unwanted characteristics to avoid backyard breeders. You must always ask the appropriate questions and assess the responses you receive. Without hesitation, they should be able to tell you all you need to know about their breeding history. They may even show you their certificate, as well as a list of other dog owners who have purchased German Shepherds from the breeder and are willing to testify. Ask if you can see the puppies and choose one right away. This is a crucial question to consider. If the breeder replies no, you should not buy from them. A reputable and professional breeder should have nothing to hide and should have all the necessary facilities and circumstances to properly care for their pets. You should still go out and assess the situation and its methods before making a final decision. In that case, focus on acquiring all the other details regarding your potential pup. Remember to keep an eye on the parents? In order to care and watch out for her puppies, the mother GSD must be present. Inquire about any records or registrations. Because immunization records are the most common documentation, it is highly recommended to acknowledge them. If the breeder is unable to meet these requirements, do not hesitate to walk away and not buy a German Shepherd puppy from them. While these are just a few examples of questions you can ask to determine whether or not a breeder is trustworthy, there are many more. Any and all questions should be welcome until you feel ready to commit to your potential GSD puppy. If your puppy has an unusual color or comes from champion bloodlines, the price can be significantly boosted. Furthermore, you must factor in all of the costs connected with raising and caring for a German Shepherd dog when calculating the total cost of ownership. If you want your German Shepherd professionally trained, be prepared to invest a lot more money. How much is a german shepherd puppy cost near Florida? German Shepherds are not inexpensive pets. The case is no different near Florida. However, you may expect certain discounts from a number of providers. Nevertheless, if the prices are too good to be true, well, that is a huge red flag. Skip ahead and move on to the next browsing store or provider. Source: thepuppyacademy. Investing in a well-bred puppy saves money and heartache in the long run. German Shepherds are one of the most popular breeds in America, ranking 3 according to the American Kennel Club in .Their distinctive appearance, intelligence, and loyalty make them recognizable and beloved companions and watchdogs. However, well-bred German Shepherds from reputable breeders are an expensive upfront investment. Responsible breeders invest in extensive health testing and only breed the healthiest dogs, producing higher quality puppies. However, this investment often saves money on healthcare expenses down the road. Source: newsweek. Breeding quality German Shepherd puppies involves far more than just pairing two dogs and selling the litter. Responsible breeders invest significant time showing and health testing their dogs before breeding. They carefully select pairings to produce puppies free of inheritable conditions common in German Shepherds. This level of dedication necessitates higher puppy prices. Breeders also extensively socialize litters and provide enrichment. All these measures result in well-rounded, healthy puppies and require real financial investment that factors into the cost. Any breeder claiming their puppies are healthy simply because the parents had no problems should be avoided, as only testing provides real insight into genetic health. This breeder has been specializing in purebred German Shepherd puppies since .Their dogs come from champion European bloodlines and undergo extensive health testing for issues common in the breed. German Shepherd Puppies NC breeds for sound temperament as well, producing puppies well-suited for any home. Their breedings are done carefully to AKC standards, and they offer a one year health guarantee. Their experience, professionalism, and commitment to the breed makes them a top choice. Source: nadelhaus. Keep in mind though that these puppies are often mixed breeds, not purebred German Shepherds. Doing your homework avoids issues and saves money long-term. German Shepherd Temperament and Behavior Here are some key points about temperament and behavior when considering a German Shepherd puppy: While training is important, temperament is also genetic to a degree. Nervousness, reactivity, and other undesirable traits can be passed from parents to puppies. Responsible breeders carefully select pairings not just for physical traits but also for compatible temperaments. They try to produce puppies with sound, stable personalities. Irresponsible breeders pay little attention to parental temperaments. Cheaper puppies often come from pairings with incompatible or poor temperaments. You may end up with unpredictable or even aggressive tendencies from poorly-bred puppies. Aggression can be genetic. Spending more upfront for a puppy from health and temperament tested parents can save you money, time and stress compared to dealing with behavior issues later on. Good breeding produces puppies with higher chances for excellent health and temperament. Source: shepherdsense. As with many dog breeds, German Shepherds with unusual coat colors and patterns often cost more than dogs with the more common colorings. However, color should not be the main factor. Temperament and health are much more important than a unique look when choosing a puppy. They are mixed-breed dogs, usually Shepherds crossed with Poodles or Shelties. But they are not purebred. Do not choose based on size or rare colors alone. Make sure to buy from ethical breeders who prioritize health, genetics and temperament over looks. Stick to responsible AKC German Shepherd breeders for the best chance of getting a purebred puppy with good genes. Here is a summary of working vs show line German Shepherds and how it impacts price: German Shepherds were originally bred as working dogs but now also serve as show dogs and pets. Show line Shepherds are bred for conformation and make good pets and companions. Working line Shepherds are bred for roles like IPO, police work, military, etc. While expensive for pet owners, typical prices for those involved in dog sports and working roles. Focus less on price and more on finding an ethical breeder who breeds for health and temperament. German Shepherds need high-quality, high-protein diets and eat a lot, especially while growing. Helps manage heavy shedding. Recommended for common behavior issues. Important for destructive chewers. Proper preventative care helps avoid bigger medical bills later on. Buying high-quality items upfront saves money over time. Proper medical care early on prevents issues later. Reputable breeders devote significant time and effort into breeding dogs free of genetic issues , and this dedication is reflected in their higher puppy prices. It will likely cost more in the long run for health issues. Make sure parents are health tested for hip dysplasia, which can develop young and becomes expensive to manage. Paying for a well-bred puppy is an investment. Consider adopting from a rescue group or shelter. Ask reputable breeders about a slightly older puppy from a previous litter at a discount. See if your chosen breeder offers any kind of discount for repeat customers. Set up an estimated monthly budget and factor in long-term healthcare costs. Focus on finding an ethical, responsible breeder who fully tests health. Paying a higher initial price for a healthy, well-bred puppy saves money later on. Never compromise on health and breeder reputation just to save money upfront. A German Shepherd is a long-term commitment. Source: allthingsdogs. Higher for rare colors or top pedigree. Cutting costs leads to issues. Health problems like hip dysplasia and behavior issues like aggression can be genetic. Poor breeding perpetuates them. Take time finding an ethical, responsible breeder who fully health tests their dogs. Paying more upfront for a well-bred puppy saves money long-term by preventing problems. Focus on health, genetics, temperament — not low prices. A GSD is a long commitment. Invest in a well-bred puppy. Her diverse range of interests, from technology and business to health and wellness, allows her to bring a fresh perspective to each topic she covers. What factors determine the price of a German Shepherd Puppy? The price of a German Shepherd puppy does vary, depending on her age, color, bloodline, litter size, location, as well as breeding cost. German Shepherds obtained from animal shelters and rescue organizations are relatively inexpensive because they charge only enough to cover their costs. Here are the 5 most prominent factors that will affect the price of a German Shepherd: 1. Age Age is the most important factor in determining the price of a German Shepherd Dog. All in all, it has a lot to do with the desirability of a cuddly puppy. Puppies that are only weeks old will cost the most. It is because this marks the beginning of the most precious moments of a puppy. The demand drives up the price. The price of German Shepherd puppies of 12 weeks or older will start to decrease. Adult German Shepherds will be offered at much lower prices because some people see them as less desirable. Another reason is that the new owner may need to set a budget for health issues related to senior dogs. Coat Color Some colors are more expensive than others. For German Shepherds, colors such as white will cost more than the usual black and tan. This is because these rare coat colors are more difficult to breed. Bloodline Although purebred German Shepherds puppies are the most sought-after ones, mixed-breed pups usually cost much less and have the potential to be healthier than many purebreds. In general, German Shepherds have working lines and show lines, totaling five different variations. We will get into them later in this article. Litter size It refers to the number of puppies in a litter. Usually, the more the number of puppies in a litter, the cheaper the price will become. Location The location from where you purchase your German Shepherd can actually affect how much you pay. Areas with a lower cost of living, or places where there is less demand will typically charge lower prices than more populated cities. Certain states or cities may even have more regulations on breeding which may increase the cost, thus the price of a German Shepherd pup. And these all come at a cost for the breeders. What are the different variations of the German Shepherd bloodline and their prices? While the German Shepherd is a dog breed of its own, you may probably stumble upon different variations. Purebred German Shepherds come in many different sizes, colors, coloration patterns, and body styles. In general, German Shepherds are divided into working lines and show lines, totaling five different variations. Here is a four-minute video from which you can learn about their variations: 1. They have a distinctive angulation with their back legs shorter than their front legs, thinner bones, and significantly smaller heads. They come in quite a few colors, mostly solid with occasional bi-color variations, including black and tan saddle, solid back, solid white, and saddle sable. But their obedient and playful character make them fantastic pets. There are certain measurement minimums for their hips and elbows. This results in a stunning, very specific, and uniform appearance. These dogs have a very strong, pronounced build with a black and tan saddle, and solid back. They make good house protectors and need a lot of exercises and to be trained frequently. These dogs are very social. So they are perfect for families with kids. This is the line of GSD you would normally see in movies. They are also closest to the original breed that was bred and developed by Max von Stephanitz, who is acknowledged as the father of German Shepherd Dogs. With a stable temperament, they excel in working jobs, and also make awesome family pets. Rigid control of the original DDR breed prevents the gene poll from diluting. They must be free from any history of hip dysplasia, among other health conditions, to be able to reproduce. This resulted in a very distinct look — with large heads, large bones, and a shiny dark coat. The Czech further tightened the breeding standards, resulting in arguably the most intense breed of German Shepherd available to date. But they are extremely loyal and obedient, with a pleasant temperament. They could be the best guard dog to protect people. But they are extremely rare nowadays. Other factors that affect the cost of a German Shepherd A puppy whose parents and often grandparents and other relatives are hunting champions has the potential to excel in these areas as well. And it will cost you more than any puppy who is the offspring of just average parents. And the most expensive German Shepherds are those adults with proven records as show dogs, K9, or breeding dogs. What is a reasonable price for a German Shepherd puppy? Reputable breeders, when pricing their German Shepherd puppies, must factor in the cost of breeding, feeding, raising, and caring for the pups as well as their mother. By Henry Steinman Posted on November 22, Updated on November 21, German Shepherds are a breed of dog that normally ranges in size from medium to large, as well as ranging in color variations and shapes. The origin of the first generation of German Shepherds falls upon the year when they were originally bred to become intelligent sheep herding dogs. The combination of intelligence, loyalty, stealth, strength, and trainability has played an instrumental factor in why they are among the most registered breeds of dogs worldwide. According to the American Kennel Club , the German Shepherd breed was among the top three breeds to be registered in .Normally, a German Shepherd is an active dog that is fiercely loyal to its handler. There is a reason why they are among the favorite breeds of dogs to join the canine units of the local law enforcement, the military, and site security. However, because these breeds of dogs have been known to have an aggressive temperament, they were mentioned the most often for sending victims to the hospital due to biting, according to the medical review study involving the practice of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery that took place between to .Interestingly enough, this study was not enough to deter dog fanciers from continuing to invest in the purchase of a German Shepherd, both as a personal pet and as a working-class animal. German Shepherd Varieties A standard German Shepherd dog typically measures anywhere between twenty-two to twenty-four inches in height as females while the males typically start anywhere from two to four inches taller. The length of this particular breed of dog tends to be longer and usually features a broad chest and lower hip frame. Most standardized German Shepherd breeds have domed foreheads, as well as a long square-cut muzzle with strong jaws and a dark nose. Normally, the large open ears stand erect but do pull back when these dogs are in motion. The long necks of these dogs tend to extend when something earns their attention, which happens often as they are one of the most alert breeds of dogs there is. Their tails are usually bushy and reach the hock. German Shepherds also tend to have double coats which are close and dense with an undercoat. Shorter-haired German Shepherds are more common than longer-haired versions. The judging standards of the American Kennel Club actually look at long-haired German Shepherds to display a physical flaw instead of regarding it as aesthetically pleasing. As long as the standard German Shepherd maintains a shorter coat of hair, plus its traditional markings of either a tan and black or a red and black color blend, this is deemed ideal for judges belonging to the American Kennel Club. However, they will accept the rare color varieties of all-black and sable in their judging. All-white German Shepherds registered as standards are simply disqualified not just from the American Kennel Club, but among a number of breeding shows. They are available and bred among other nations as they are becoming increasingly recognized and appreciated as a breed. King Shepherd This breed of German Shepherd typically stands taller and has a body form that is more evened out as opposed to the standard German Shepherds. Among the farming communities within Canada and the US, King Shepherds are highly favored dogs as they are effective in herding cattle and sheep, as well as incredibly sturdy to adapt to most environments. They are bred for this reason. When standing a King German Shepherd right next to a standard German Shepherd, aside from the size and hind hip positions, it is easy to tell they originate from the same breed of dog. However, as mentioned, the size is quite different as the King Shepherds typically have a minimum weight of 80 pounds among the females and go as high as pounds. As for the males, they typically weigh anywhere between pounds to pounds. The height of a female dog averages 25 inches high, so not really a big stretch from the standard German Shepherds, but the hips are higher. The same is said for the male dogs as they average 27 inches in height. While in height there may not be much difference, it certainly shows in the weight as the King Shepherds are noticeably bulkier. The aim is to correct behavior issues and conformational issues the standard German Shepherds are traditionally known for. The Shiloh Shepherd is significantly taller than the standard German Shepherds as they measure in height that almost making them appear more like wolves rather than dogs. The length of their coats is also longer, which is considered standard for the Shiloh Shepherd breed. They are genetically bred this way so they can distinguish their own look without losing the connection they still share with the standard German Shepherds. These are heartier dogs, were members of the farming community seem to appreciate. The overall temperament of these dogs also seems a bit more family-friendly, which again makes them a favorite choice among family farms. Another noticeable difference between the Shiloh Shepherd dogs and the standard German Shepherds is the ears. The tips of the standard Shepherds are more rounded while the Shiloh Shepherds have ears that are more pointy. On average, the height of a Shiloh Shepherd dog measures anywhere from twenty-eight inches to thirty-two inches tall. The males usually average about twenty-eight inches long, which is considerably larger than the standard German Shepherds. The Shiloh Shepherds are also among the heaviest as they average in weight anywhere from pounds to as high as pounds. At least this is considered the acceptable standard among the judges who specifically take interest in this breed of dog. The females are slightly smaller with the average height ranging between twenty-six inches tall to twenty-eight inches, as well as a weight ranging from to pounds. With proper socialization, they do make good family dogs but have also been intentionally bred and raised to serve as ideal security dogs. Between size, intelligence, agility, and strength, this is the one thing the Shiloh Shepherds have dominance over compared to the other breeds of the German Shepherd species. This breed inspired dog fanciers out of Switzerland to import this lineup of white German Shepherds into their nation to start up a breeding program of their own. Even though the American Great White Shepherd is now recognized by the United Kennel Club as its own breed, they continue to be left out of presentation shows put forth by the likes of the American Kennel Society. Aside from the obvious color difference between the White Shepherd and the standard German Shepherd, both breeds possess the exact same genetic pros and cons in height, weight, and bodily form. White Swiss Shepherd Dog Originally bred in Switzerland, the White Swiss Shepherd Dog began its trend in when the first stud contributed towards the official development of the breed. While this breed of German Shepherd is normally all white, the fur thickness varies from medium to long. However, should one consider a White Swiss Shepherd as a show dog, bear in mind the judging will consider any color aside from white to be a flaw. When fully grown, the overall measurement of a White Swiss Shepherd dog is generally the same as a standard German Shepherd. The weights are also similar as the females are usually between fifty-five to seventy-seven pounds and the males from sixty-six to eighty-eight pounds. Among the argument, the common health ailment that is found among German Shepherd breeds is hip dysplasia and hemophilia. This is because how the back half of the dog is considerably lower than the upper half. This, many believe, is why the hip dysplasia condition among the breed is so common. Henry Steinman Henry is an animal lover, pure and simple. He's been covering dogs and cats and a freelance and full-time writer since .Henry's been with Puppytoob and Kittentoob nearly his entire career. Currently he has 2 dogs, one cat, a turtle, and even a parakeet! He's obsessed with keeping his animals healthy, happy, and even entertained. Similar Posts. They have become one of the most popular dog breeds in America, which is both good and bad. Before you decide on a German Shepherd puppy , there are a few things you should know about the breed and how much you can expect to pay to buy a puppy and care for it. This is probably one of the first questions you asked yourself when you decided to get a GSD, but answering it is not easy. The cost of a German Shepherd puppy will vary depending on a number of factors, and, as with most things in life, you get what you pay for. However, that figure can rise significantly for a puppy with successful show or working dog lineage. If you have a Flexible Spending Account FSA attached to your health insurance policy for buying a service dog, you can use it if your doctor determines it is medically necessary. Besides that, there are grants and charities available that pair owners with a service dog at low or no costs. Visiting a local animal shelter could be the least expensive way to get a German Shepherd puppy, but you can expect your search to be a long and frustrating one. While you will only be expected to pay for vaccinations or asked to make a small donation, you are far more likely to find an adult dog than a puppy. This could make training a challenge as undesirable habits have to be broken and temperament can be unpredictable. I wrote about issues adopting a German Shepherd that you might find useful if you were considering taking this route. If you see German Shepherd puppies offered at a price that seems too good to be true, you should proceed with extreme caution and have a vet check the puppy you choose before any money changes hands. This is because, like all pedigree dogs, German Shepherds are prone to certain medical issues. These issues include hip dysplasia, arthritis, degenerative myelopathy and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Experienced breeders know this and take great care to avoid these problems, but puppy mills are only interested in breeding as many dogs as they can and selling them as quickly as possible. Few things in life are as precious as peace of mind, which is why you may be wise to get your German Shepherd puppy from a breeder that offers a lifetime health guarantee, like Regis Regal does. Once you have brought your German Shepherd puppy home, the fun really begins and the costs start to mount. German Shepherds are large dogs and they love their exercise, which means that your puppy will eat a lot. You can also expect to pay several hundred dollars each year to cover immunizations, laboratory tests and pest and parasite treatments. Then there are obedience classes, leashes and collars and lots and lots of treats and toys. German Shepherds, which are sometimes called Alsatians, are known for their strength, intelligence, obedience and trainability. The traits that make them great family pets also make them ideal working dogs, and they are used by police departments and armies in just about every country. German Shepherds stand between 22 and inches tall and weigh between 65 and 90 pounds. They live for about 14 years and are extremely loyal. Their walking gait is relaxed, but they can reach great speeds when they run. German Shepherds were originally bred to protect livestock from predators, and they have been known to sacrifice themselves without hesitation to save their loved ones. A Brief History of the German Shepherd German Shepherds are loyal, intelligent and hardworking, but when you adopt one of these pups, you should be aware of its history. The introduction of German Shepherds to the United States started in the early s. Since then, a lot went into the breeding of this loyal, hardworking breed and making them what they are today. Original differences between East and West German Shepherds became even more prominent because of the unique ways they were bred on each side of the Berlin Wall. Czechoslovakia was influential in developing the bloodline, imparting their own unique tweak on the breed. Be mindful when adopting a puppy that many of the original bloodlines are now severed, resulting in undesirable traits. Because of this unregulated breeding practice, America, especially, has issues with undesirable characteristics and authenticity. Eastern sheps are perfect for these tasks and much more since they are intelligent and bred to have high energy and high drive. In fact, an East DDR dog from a good bloodline is always on point and looking to get involved in the next task. They rarely make suitable pets, and we recommend against trying to own one as a family companion. While any pup is trainable, Eastern German Shepherds require extensive handling and training, as they are solely bred for work and protection. Your puppy will start out small but will grow into an extremely powerful dog. Little to know no margin of error exists when it comes to handling an adult East German Shepherd of this class. From the beginning, American German Shepherds were bred to win dog shows. They are a combination of many bloodlines, resulting in a more substantial build and shorter head and muzzle. These dogs also slope in the back and hindquarters. Because of the lack of regulation pertaining to Health and Temperament, the American Shepherd has been vastly over-bred. This has resulted in tremendous hip and elbow dysplasia along with Leukemia. The German registry Verein fur deutsche Schaferhunde requires more rigorous oversight in their breeding. For instance, along with their show title, the dogs must be cleared for a working title and good hip and elbow health. Because of this, the West German bloodline is typically healthier than American ones. These dogs have an amazing history, and breeding endowed them with their own unique traits. Its beginnings stretch as far back as communist Czechoslovakia in , and they were employed by the Czech Army border control agency. Czechs tend to be leaner than the other working bloodlines and are quite nimble since they were once prey driven. They also tend to mature the slowest of the working lines. While Czech Working Lines German Shepherds are sometimes kept as pets and have calmed throughout time, they are still very hard-wired to work. These western shephs are also thought to be the closest to the original breed created by the Germans. And, since they are revered as a working bloodline — a focus is emphasized on their personality and temperament — much more than their appearance. This practice results in a much healthier and dynamic breed for the western bloodline. This type of GSD is also used for special needs , emotional support and more. These canines are the best choice for companionship and family security if their owners invest enough time in them. One of our former puppies Choosing the Right German Shepherd Breeder Respected German Shepherd breeders will sell you a puppy and be there for you whenever you need help. They want their dogs to thrive and be happy, and they take great care to match the temperaments of their puppies with the temperaments of their new owners. You may think that you have to find a puppy at a local breeder, but that is not necessarily true. We have also been named a Breeder of Merit by the American Kennel Club, and we offer a lifetime health guarantee on all of our German Shepherd puppies. I've been breeding German Shepherds of sound body and mind for over 30 years and specialize in providing families with loving companion dogs, and dogs for emotional support therapy, for veterans suffering PTSD, and for other special needs. I'm trying to share my extensive knowledge on breeding and training the perfect German Shepherd with the wider community. We offer lifetime guarantees on health and temperament. Our bloodlines started out of the top 2 bloodlines in the world, Vom Arlett and Bad-Boll. As I continue this blog I will help you learn how to assure you are picking a healthy and happy pup for your next family companion. Recent Posts. Less - The German Shepherds are medium to large-sized dogs , well-balanced, muscular dog, slightly longer than tall, with a medium length coat, erect ears, and a low-set natural tail that normally reaches to the hock and is carried in a slight curve like a saber. The outline of the German Shepherd Dog is made up of smooth curves rather than angles. The head is in proportion to the size of the body, strong without appearing coarse or fine. Gender differences are readily apparent. The German Shepherd Dog is confident and fearless, willing to be approached, yet a certain level of aloofness towards strangers is acceptable. When working, the German Shepherd is alert and eager, adapting well to new tasks. Lack of confidence is a serious defect in the character of a German Shepherd. The structure of this breed was designed for efficient locomotion, particularly at the trot, so poor movement is another serious fault. History Less - The German Shepherd Dog is a relatively young breed, developed almost single-handedly in the first half of the twentieth century by a German cavalry officer, Max von Stephanitz, president of the Verein far Deutsche Schaferhunde S. Using a variety of German sheepdogs as his foundation stock, von Stephanitz developed a distinctive breed in a very short period of time, due in large part to the authoritarian practices of the German dog fancy at that time. Von Stephanitz emphasized utility and intelligence in his breeding program, enabling the German Shepherd Dog to switch easily from herding duties to other fields of work, particularly military and police work. All things German were shunned and popularity slumped. After the war, however, movie star Rin-tin-tin stimulated interest in the breed again. The striking good looks of this breed, combined with its remarkable intelligence and loyalty, have made it a favorite working and companion dog. If a breeder tries to tell you that his puppies are healthy because their parents never had any issues — do not believe him! It is impossible to diagnose e. Where can you find cheap German Shepherd Dogs? The question is — do you want to purchase a dog with questionable health and temperament? These dogs often are not purebred German Shepherd puppies, but are mixed with e. Labradors, Pitbulls or Golden Retrievers. If you end up with a dog with genetically based health conditions however, be prepared to spend a multiple of the original purchase price on vet costs! Temperament and behavior While a lot of good manners can be taught through consistent training, temperament is genetic to a certain level. When you buy an extra cheap German Shepherd puppy, you not only get a dog with questionable health, but also with unpredictable temperament! Even aggression can be genetic and can be passed on from the mom and dad to the offspring. You can save yourself a lot of time, nerves and money spent on future behavioral training by getting a well-bred and more expensive dog. What is the most expensive type of German Shepherd? Like in many dog breeds, certain rare German Shepherd colors are much more expensive than the most common colors and patterns. It is much more important that your puppy has a sound temperament and fits in well with your family and lifestyle than that he has a certain rare look. These dogs are mutts German Shepherds mixed with Miniature Poodles, Shelties or other smaller breeds. Once more, be certain to not decide on your future dog based on looks alone. A stable temperament and good health is much more integral than a certain size or weight. Working lines vs show lines The German Shepherd was originally bred as a working dog. Since his original use as a shepherd dog however, he has filled many different roles — from guarding properties over being used in the show ring to participating in Schutzhund and IPO trails. Depending on which lines your German Shepherd Dog comes from, the prices can vary a lot! Show line German Shepherds are the dogs that are bred for conformation shows. These are the type of dogs you should decide on if you would like a shepherd puppy as a pet and companion animal. If you are interested in using your German Shepherd as a protection dog and to participate in IPO trials, you should pick one from working lines. There are a lot of highly successful working line breeders both in North America and Europe. For this price, you get an absolutely flawless dog with extensive skills and perfect obedience. Some US dog owners interested in Schutzhund choose to import a puppy from old European working lines. While this might sound insanely high for a pet dog owner, for Schutzhund enthusiasts it is a typical price for a pedigreed German Shepherd pup. How much does it cost a month to own a German Shepherd? This will cover the basics: high-quality food and regular vet checks. Some German Shepherd owners spend considerably more money. Professional grooming is necessary for many German Shepherd owners, as these dogs shed heavily. This breeds tends to exhibit several behavioral issues that can be difficult to fix for first-time dog owners, including: Separation anxiety.

We breed attractive, trainable, sociable puppies with lots of natural hunting instinct. Our breeding dogs are members of the family. We look forward to their first swim, their first hunt, and every litter they have. Please call or email us to learn more about our breeding program and how you can become part of the Duck Fever Retrievers Family! Because Hunting Labs are bred for a calm temperament, good looks, and intelligence in addition to working ability, they make wonderful additions to families who have no intentions of hunting with their dogs. Furthermore, these dogs excel in Obedience and Agility, for those who want to show their dogs, plus hold titles like Lake Mascot, Hiking Buddy, Babysitter, and Official Ball Catcher, for those who wish to "show off" their dogs. Due to their Field Labrador backgrounds, which helped to solidify their hunting ability and intelligence, occasionally there will be a puppy or two in a litter which exhibits a bit more "go" than we would like to place in a pet home. It is for this reason we watch our puppies' behaviors so closely, and do not allow people to pick out their puppy until the litter is six weeks old. At this time, their personalities have emerged, and we can better advise the buyer as to which puppy would be best suited for them. Were you aware there are different types of Labradors, each bred for a distinct purpose? Field Labradors california chocolate labrador puppies Due to the many challenges at great distances, these dogs need to be fast, agile, and SMART. They are bred to compete in Field Trials. These are events where up to four birds, one at a time, are thrown and shot before the dog is released to retrieve. Many retrieves exceed yards, some of which are long challenging water retrieves. In addition, the trial includes blind retrieves that require precise handling to keep the dog in a straight line to the hidden bird at distances of up to , sometimes yards. On a blind retrieve, the dog must not break into a hunt, but rely on hand signals and whistle blows to find the downed bird. Because of the complexity and difficulty of these trials, breeding dogs must have great marking ability, athleticism, intelligence, retrieving desire and be excellent water dogs. As a result, these dogs are often leaner built, with long legs and a lot of energy, but completely trainable, owing to their quite amazing intellect. At yards out, what are you shooting the bird with, anyway? This idea lead to the development of the hunt tests. The hunt tests put greater emphasis on steadiness and honoring which are important for a good duck dog. The marks and blinds were also decreased to realistic distances which do not exceed yards Hunting Labradors Also, dogs that "hunt" on blind marks are not usually judged harshly. As these Labs are generally owned by people who may only hunt about 30 days a year, these dogs spend the rest of their days as a family dog. Therefore, Hunting Labrador breeders breed dogs for hunting ability, a calm demeanor, good looks, and intelligence. The resulting dogs are stockier than the Field trial Labs, but not as heavy as the Show Labradors. They also sport a moderately blocky head, with legs in proportion to their body, and a disposition that will allow them to hunt in the morning, then lie down in front of the fireplace at night. These qualities have caused many to term the Hunting Lab as the "classic" Labrador. Because for generations and generations, these dogs have been bred with only one thing in mind - appearance. Beauty is closely linked with fashion, and just like fashion, styles change, without any rhyme or reason. Beauty is purely subjective, and in the dog world, changes at the whims of the judges who judge it. When the focus is on appearance, the virtues are a certain coat, head shape, or even tail shape. It doesn't matter if the dog's flaws are a lazy temperament, low hunting drive or fear of water. And thus show lines are born. Working ability is forgotten and aesthetics are the primary reason for breeding. Great for the people who like to show dogs, but not so great for the people who need them for working purposes or to keep up with an active family. Currently, Show Labs are heavy looking, with short legs, the all-important straight otter tail, and what has been described as a Rottweiler head. They usually have very calm personalities. Whether you are looking for your dog to become an outstanding retriever for hunting waterfowl, or you are looking for a gun dog trainer to develop your dog into a great upland hunter, or both, you'll find excellence in training at Northern Plains Retrievers. We offer a variety of different training programs and we will customize your dog's program to fit the type of hunting that you do. To view the details of each program, you can click on Retriever Training. Give us a call if you would like your pup to be obedient, or you would like a fully trained dog for next hunting season! Are you looking for a Labrador Retriever puppy bred for both drive and companionship? Interested in Pointing Labrador Puppies? We offer carefully selected breedings that will produce black, chocolate, and yellow Labrador pups. Some of our dogs are from pointing Labrador bloodlines and either point themselves or throw pointing lab pups. We love to get these puppies back for training due to their strong instincts, trainability, and intelligence. Simply put, they are a pleasure to train. The disposition of these dogs will make them as fine a family dog as they will be a hunting companion. Diesel x Nova all chocolate litter due to whelp late September - now taking deposits. We currently have one black male available. In the market for a Trained Retriever? We occasionally offer labs for sale that have been through one of our gun dog training programs. Depending on their age and the level of training they have achieved, we will sell them as Started Pups or Started Dogs. No matter what level you choose, once you have hunted with a trained retriever, you'll never want to hunt with anything else! For more information, click on Trained Dogs. This is is a very strong breeding presenting 14 National Field Champions in their combined pedigrees. She is a muscular rock solid 52 pound female of pure energy. She can outrun anyone and her love of retrieving is pure and always front and center. She is definitely her mother's Jet daughter. She taught her well, she is a strong hunting partner and a loyal family companion who loves with her whole heart. She trains the young ones around Bailiwick, she is so very smart. Spend one minute with her and it is obvious, she is "Over the Top", she truly has it all. Retrieve, yes she loves retrieving, ask her and you shall receive. She is a devoted companion who loves with her whole heart, will work all day, not a problem with her. At the end of a long day she is not hard to find, she will be right at your side. This beautiful gal was born dreaming if ducks and duck ponds. Radley is Mr. Personality, he will put a smile on your face. We can retrieve all day or we can just visit and be cool, either way not a problem for Radley. He is truly a pleasure to train, so smart just tell him once and he has it down pat!!!!! This is a very strong breeding.Her love is retrieving, if you have the time she has the energy. She is dedicated, loving and very smart. Training her is a pleasure. What a loving personality, she will put a smile on your face. This is a very strong breeding. Stella presents three National Champions in her pedigree.This includes: Black, Chocolate from light to dark and Yellows from light cream to fox red. This will be another exceptional cross that will produce the total package! Freya had a beautiful litter on July 28th. They will be ready to go to their new homes on September 22nd when they turn 8 weeks old. Only 1 male spot open! We have had such wonderful feedback on the first litter that we did it again. This will be a fantastic all chocolate litter that can go any direction! Ditto gave birth to a gorgeous litter of 10 on August 11th. They be ready to go home on October 6th when the puppies turn 8 weeks. Accepting deposits to hold spots! Males and Female available! Remi is in absolute perfect health and she absolutely loves being a mom. So we decided to give her one final opportunity. We are expecting 4 to 6 puppies! These puppies are going to be incredible! We are now accepting a limited number of deposits. All will depend on the timing and the availability of the special stud. We will begin accepting deposits later into , once the breeding has taken place. When Molly comes back in heat anticipated in December are planning to bring Molly all the way down to Baton Rouge Louisianna to make this extremely special breeding happen! This will be a black and yellow litter. Once the pregnancy is confirmed we will begin accepting deposits. This cross is a proven producer of the total package! The puppies can go any direction and make absolutely wonderful companions too! Tentative plan is for a spring litter. Each boy would bring something special to the table with Bailey. So we are taking our time making this decision. One thing we know is that this will be a gorgeous total package chocolate litter! We anticipate this to be a spring litter. Our studs are all proven in the field and live as part of the family. They all have strong proven pedigrees and are some of the most extensively health tested studs available anywhere. This is one of the best chocolate pedigrees we have ever seen! Master titled as a 2 year old! Mojo is the result of over 4 years of planning and research. He is the first chocolate dog in over 10 generations. Mojo has a loaded pedigree and is an excellent out cross option for females with more traditional chocolate pedigrees. He is currently in Texas training with Justin Drake. Houdini will be coming home for a couple of months this winter, before heading back south to finish his Master Hunter title. After he completes his MH title, Houdini will be available for stud services. We focus on producing the best all around Lab puppies from champion Field Bred and Hunt Test bloodlines that are healthy and free of hereditary disorders. Our dogs are selected for their natural hunting instincts, desire to please, intelligence, versatility, gentle temperaments, ability to compete in hunt tests and field trials, train-ability, pedigree, health clearances, and attractive physical features. We take pride in our dogs and with our careful research and selection processes, our puppies should satisfy the most challenging buyer. Our labs are bred to be working dogs and have the potential to excel in any direction. They are also bred to have wonderful dispositions and make great family companions. All of our dogs live in our home and are part of our family. We actively use them for upland and waterfowl hunting, and have started running them in AKC Hunt Tests. We do everything we can to try and ensure we produce healthy puppies. We go above and beyond when it comes to health testing and it shows. We have also started the process of testing for OFA Thyroid. The results of all of this health testing is readily available online on the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals website as well as on the Paw Print Genetics Pedigree Database. We only offer a limited number of litters of puppies per year. We focus on quality and not quantity and believe in having a personal touch. All of our puppies are born and raised in our home and are thoroughly socialized. Our puppies are actually born in our bedroom and stay there until they are between 3 and 4 weeks of age. This way we can ensure that they are safe, clean and comfortable at all times. Not to mention the countless hours of attention they get during the day and late into each night. Once they are 3 to 4 weeks old, we will move them into one of our two puppy nursery rooms where we can expand their box and begin the introduction to potty training. We LOVE our puppies and it shows in their care. We will only breed litters when we can guarantee that each puppy will receive daily individual love and attention. When we have multiple litters on the ground we hire in special daily helpers to ensure that our strict standards of care are always met. Our puppy program is extensive and comprehensive, yet we are continually fine-tuning and looking at ways to incorporate more. At a bare minimum this program includes: early neurological stimulation called ENS or Biosensor , early scent introduction ESI , introduction to crates, car rides, birds or bird wings, gunfire from a distance, water weather permitting , outdoor adventures in different types of environments, daily loud noises, introduction to potty training and lots of socialization with adults, kids and other dogs. We strive to give every puppy the best start possible. By the time they are ready to go to their new homes at 8 weeks of age, each puppy should be well prepared for whatever direction their new family takes them. Our very first litter was in and then we took a short hiatus from breeding until .Since resuming, we have had tremendous success with our very limited number of litters. The majority of our puppies have gone to homes where they live as part of the family and have proven themselves as exceptional hunting-working-competition dogs.

What Is A Merle Pug? The merle Pug is just as much Pug as any other specimen of this breed. Merle puppies are still Pugs with the same body and temperament characteristics as fawn or black Pugs. The issue with the merle coat is that it does not occur naturally with this dog breed. The merle coat is a result of gene manipulation either by accident or on purpose. Those patches are often blue or gray, and appear a bit washed-up. You may recognize them as blue merle Pugs. The base coat is not a solid color. Although merle is simply a stunning coat pattern, it brings along many potential problems, and a wide list of hereditary genetic conditions. Now, I want to discuss the origin of merle Pugs. When did they first appear? Do we know who the first merle pug was? Pugs are an ancient breed. These days, planned breeding is what breeders use in order to achieve the desired coat. Merle Pugs are all the rage. And, let me tell you something — this business is booming! About The Merle Color The merle color is a result of specific genes. Canine experts call those genes M genes. Remember when I told you that the merle coat pattern can occur naturally with some dog breeds, like Collies? So, how does the merle gene occur with the Pug dog breed? Are those Pugs really purebred dogs? The merle gene has to be introduced from another dog breed. Dogs that are carriers of the merle gene were probably used in the breeding process some time in the past, which has resulted in merle Pug puppies. This is a long process, and it does not guarantee success every time. Also, merle Pugs can be crossed with other Pugs to achieve a spotted coat. Transferring The Merle Gene Photo from: patternedpugz When it comes to the merle gene, we can tell apart two different merles: the big M and the little m. The entire merle coat depends on the combination of these merle genes. The m gene from the other parent does not have to be present. Also, two M genes are of a certain merle coat — sadly, a double merle. You can avoid the merle coat if your puppy inherits two sets of the m gene and no M genes at all. How Healthy Are Merle Pugs? Pugs are small dogs with thin legs, and yet, a sturdy body. The first thing that many dog owners notice about Pugs is their smushy face. This condition stands for Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome , and it affects the upper airways. But, this is something that all Pugs experience. Are there conditions specifically linked to merle Pugs only? One of the biggest potential health issues for merle Pugs is deafness. Hearing problems can affect one or both ears. They can vary in intensity from partial deafness to complete loss of hearing. Hand in hand with deafness comes blindness. The same rules apply to blindness: one or both eyes, and partial or complete blindness. These are conditions that your merle Pug can live with. Pugs are known for having many skin hot spots. Their coat is super short and sleek, wrinkly, and prone to infections. Because of the lack of melanin in the spotted areas, merle Pugs are highly prone to hypersensitivity to sunlight. Merle Pugs can easily get sunburns, which can, unfortunately, lead to skin cancer. Applying sunscreen on your merle Pug is not ridiculous. I encourage you to do so every time you go out in the sun, when the UV index is super high. When we talked about breeding merle Pugs to non-merle Pugs or standard Pugs earlier, we mentioned that those dogs may or may not turn merle. When breeding two Pugs that are merle, you increase the chance that the puppies will be merle, too. Breeding of two merles results in puppies that are known as double merles. Double merle Pugs are almost always ill. Rarely does any double merle puppy end up being happy and healthy. Double merles are born with severe vision impairment, some are even missing their eyes altogether! I would never recommend getting a double merle Pug puppy. How Rare Are Merle Pugs? Of all the Pug colors including apricot, black, silver, and fawn, the non-recognized color is the rarest. As I mentioned earlier, it takes a lot of effort, time, and dedication to get a merle dog. And, for what? For having a Pug that may or may not be severely ill? No, thank you! PupVine promotes health over physical appearance any time. Good luck finding a merle Pug whose owner is ready to breed him or her. Are Merle Pugs Expensive? Well, this is a surprise! Merle Pugs are usually more pricey than other Pug colors. I find it hard to believe why someone would price potentially ill puppies higher than perfectly sound dogs of standard colors. The only reason I can see such an approach is profit, and profit only. Adding the adjective exotic always plumps up the price of the puppy, and makes people want it more. In fact, such people are very proud of having merle Pugs because they believe all the other dog owners envy them. Being proud of the merle coat is a bit ridiculous. Every dog owner wants a healthy puppy to spend lots of happy years with. So, to sum up everything: please avoid the merle Pug and pick any other approved Pug color. From there we began showing dairy goats, angora goats, and pygmy goats in 4-H, FFA, and open shows from .When my son went off to college, we decided to sell off our dairy goat herd and focus on our Pug Breeding Program. Once we were able to focus on our Pug Breeding Program more we began to search for pugs of unique colors that we didn't already own. In I quit my job, and started breeding pugs full time. My new job title is a "Stay at Home Pug Mommy". Instead we retire them and they live out the remainder of their lives here at Tipping Point Farm, playing, eating, sleeping day after day, and spending time with our family. After all, Pugs are the ultimate companion and mans best friend. They will always be there for you no matter what, whether they are trying to cheer you up, steel your food, or give you kisses. With such a large demand for our pugs, I have now brought in my mom's dogs to be a part of my breeding program, so everyone is able to have their own Tipping Point Farm Pug. My Mom owns a farm thirty minutes away from me where she lives and raises her own pugs with help from me. On February 11th, , my first pug, "Cheese", the one who started it all passed away suddenly. The whole family was devastated after learning of her passing and spending so many years with such a great dog. I was heart broken, I lost my best friend. This one dog was the reason behind my whole pug breeding program. I loved this dog so much that I wanted to breed pugs so everyone could have "their own Cheese". After all, Pug love is like no other, you are their world and they become a family member. Even though Cheese is no longer here with us, I know that I am lucky enough to have got to spend so many years with her and have her daughters, grand daughters, and great grand daughters. When it comes to our pugs, Health is our 1 priority and then of course color! From day one, we are directly involved with our puppies, we help them come into the world and love them everyday till they go to there new family. Please feel free to call or email me anytime you have a question or are interested in a pug. Thank you for taking the time to read the Story behind our farm. We are looking forward to hearing from you and your family and to adding a new member to your family. I apologize for this and will be back to keeping up with my website for .As soon as we learned of the diagnosis, we made arrangements to meet with the surgeon. Unfortunately after the scans were taken, a spot was found on his liver which gave him a terminal diagnosis 2 months without chemo, 6 months with chemo. In March of he opted to start a chemo regiment every 3 weeks to hopefully extend his life expectancy. During the next few months him and I created a bucket list of things he wanted to do, which we were able to complete in between his visits to the hospital and chemo treatments. In August his cancer was reassessed to see if the chemo treatments had been working. The results were heartbreaking, the chemo hadn't worked and his body was full of cancer. Within a month of this heart breaking news my fathers health deteriorated, he was back and forth between hospice and the emergency room until he lost his battle to cancer on September 22, .My fathers loss has been extremely difficult, but I am now able to start focusing on my breeding program once again. As of right now we have big plans for .For more information about our plans, please contact me with any inquiries regarding current and future puppies or keep checking back for updates. We appreciate your patience and look forward to adding the newest fur-member to your family. Sociability The Earliest Records of the Merle Pug in History The Pug is an ancient breed of dog that most likely originates in China where it was bred as a companion pet for wealthy individuals. It is believed that they date back to B. This means that they have the ideal temperament for a companion dog, being generally happy, and always happiest when they are allowed to spend as much time as possible around their humans. They did not require a lot of exercise, were small and easy to keep, and they were generally amenable little dogs. This led to the Pug not only becoming popular with everyday people but also with some prominent figures. Formal Recognition of the Merle Pug Pugs are generally recognized by most kennel clubs, but the Merle Pug is not, because it cannot be a purebred Pug and there are some concerns over the health implications of breeding the merle gene into the dog. The Kennel Club accepts silver, apricot, fawn, or black colored pugs. They Have Been Life Savers Pugs have long been kept by members of royalty from around the world and, in at least one case, even saved members of the royal family. In , Spanish soldiers attempted to kill Prince William of Orange, the Dutch prince, but his Pug, Pompey, heard the assassins approaching and started barking. This alerted the Prince and his men to the presence of the soldiers and his life was saved. As a result, the Pug became the official breed of the House of Orange. They are the epitome of lap dogs. In reality, the breed originates from China, however, and is more closely related to the Pekingese than any Bulldog. Pugs generally make excellent pets. They are loving and loyal and enjoy spending as much time as possible with their owners. And, they are not only understanding of children but they enjoy the attention and especially enjoy spending time with kids that are old enough to be able to throw a ball or toy around for them. However, it is worth noting that Pugs are somewhat prone to certain health conditions , most of which are related to the brachycephalic face. Pugs may also suffer from weeping eyes. Conclusion Pugs are popular pets and are an ancient breed that originate from around B. Their prowess as companion dogs saw their popularity spread throughout Asia before the dog headed to Europe, where its popularity also spread. Today, the dog is still bred as a lap dog. While the Merle Pug is popular with some owners, it is not recognized as a Pug by kennel clubs because the merle coloring is not naturally occurring in the Pug breed, and it is believed that intentionally breeding it into Pugs can cause health problems. November 11, 1. Merle is a very interesting and exotic looking fur pattern present in some dogs breeds. It is a pattern in the fur rather than a fur color. This pattern expresses itself as random dark patches of fur over a lighter solid or piebald coat. Merle is not a naturally occurring color for pugs. The merle coloring is not a naturally occurring color and it needs to be bred in over generations to maintain the pug look but with different coloring. That trophy goes to brindle. Most pugs are usually either fawn or black. Merle Pugs are not purebred If you breed two purebred pugs together you will never be able to produce a merle puppy. So, for pugs to be merle they must have one or more ancestors who have been bred with another dog breed that does have the merle gene. Some people may think that merle pugs are purebred because they still look the same as other pugs but this is just due to the careful introduction of the merle gene and selective reproduction to maintain the pug look, but with the merle fur pattern. If you consider this is for a healthy, purebred fawn or black pug, then a merle pug should not cost more than this! However, there are some dishonest and tricky sellers out there who market merle pugs as exotic, rare and trendy to try and get a higher profit. Merle Pugs do not have additional health problems compared to regular pugs Merle pugs are just the same as regular pugs but with different color fur. This is a standard merle pug with the genes Mm. These pugs do not have any additional health problems however, the presence of the merle gene does increase the chances of pugs developing the health conditions usually associated with them. The pug breed alone has some significant health conditions that should be taken into consideration. These health concerns may include: Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome BOAS : This can cause severe breathing difficulties due to their flat faces Eye problems: including dry eye and corneal ulcers Hip Dysplasia Skin Infections Pug Dog Encephalitis: This condition can cause blindness and a host of other ailments and can eventually be fatal If you wanted to take a look at this in more detail check out the PDSA website. All of these health concerns are for any pug, including merle pugs. Double merle is what happens when you breed one merle dog with another merle dog. In any case, double merle dogs have a much greater chance of developing health conditions. It usually involves blindness and deafness due to a lack of pigment in the eyes and ears. Some extra splotches of dark fur on their back. Regular fawn or black pugs are expected to live between 12 and 15 years, however, the presence of the merle gene does increase the probability of pugs developing some serious health conditions and it can exacerbate some conditions that pugs already surfer from. However, a double merle pug would certainly pose some ethical problems due to all the health issues that they have. Breeding for color When you start breeding dogs for a specific color or a rare color, you start running into some issues. So, what is the verdict? Should you get a merle pug? Is it ethical? Are they rare and exotic? Ultimately, you should never purchase a dog just based on its aesthetic appeal anyway and you should always do your research to figure out if choosing a certain color means that animal will have a poorer quality of life. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. The Earliest Records of Merle Pugs in History Pugs were first bred and honed into perfect companion dogs around BC, making them one of the oldest breeds of dogs in the world. They were first bred in China, and the flat-face dogs were the chair warmers and close companions of Chinese royalty and the elite. Everyone in the upper circle of society, from Tibetan Monks in their temples to Emperors in their Palaces, the Pug was so revered that they had guards and servants of their own! Then, the breed was refined and resided with British celebrities and royalty. Finally, in the 19th century, the Pug made its way to America, and the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in .They were immediately popular when the breed first emerged in China, and their lovable faces made them a curiosity to the traders who shipped them to Europe. The Pug began to take off in England when the monarchy adopted the breed, with Queen Victoria owning several and passing them down the family line. In the US, the breed was slow to gain popularity. However, with the founding of the Pug Dog Club of America in , the Pug has slowly crept up the ranks. However, only the following colors were accepted by each club: Black Apricot Silver Merle is not a recognized color in any of the major kennel clubs because it does not occur naturally in the breed as it does for others like the Cardigan Corgi. The merle gene is semi-dominant, meaning only one must be inherited from a parent to produce a merle coloring. In addition, double Merle Pugs can also be born with eyes much smaller than normal called microphthalmia , which can leave the dogs blind. These health issues are why breeding merle dogs is a controversial topic, and kennel clubs will never register a double merle dog. Image Credit: Virginia Blount, Shutterstock 3. Pugs also often have trouble giving birth, so the number of puppies could be less than those of another breed. Instead, merle has to be bred in from a breed that can pass on the merle gene, and two purebred Pugs will not be able to produce a merle puppy. Merle Pugs can make loyal, loving, and carefree pets to the right owner, as long as the owner is aware of and able to deal with some of the potential illnesses they can have. Pugs have other well-documented health issues due to having flat faces, including breathing and eye problems. However, owners knowledgeable about what the breed needs regarding care and exercise can have a fun-loving and loyal companion in the Merle Pug. Image Credit: Virginia Blount, Shutterstock Conclusion The Merle Pug is an anomaly in the dog world since the breed does not usually carry the patterning. Merle is a genetically inherited trait that must be bred into Pug lines from other breeds that can pass the gene on naturally. If they are bred responsibly, merle dogs often live normal and happy lives without health issues. Regardless of the controversy surrounding them, Merle Pugs make excellent pets for responsible, caring owners.

We help each family select the right puppy for their lifestyle while keeping the individual needs of each puppy in mind as well. Love Our babies receive round-the-clock care from birth until they join their new family at 8 weeks. In fact, our babies spend the first weeks in our master bedroom as this makes for easy nighttime checks! They are loved on from their first day of life by children, cats, and most of all me! At 4 weeks they move to my living room where they can observe and interact more closely with our family. Health A high-quality diet, proper supplements, and the necessary genetic testing is our key to raising healthy puppies. We are passionate about health and are proud to offer a 2-year health guarantee on all our puppies. More info Happiness The happiness and well-being of our moms, dads, and puppies are extremely important to us. All of our breeding dogs live in our home or in loving guardian homes with their forever families. We believe there is a right and wrong way to breed. We are not a kennel, all of our dogs are well-cared for and cherished family members. A puppy can be the perfect addition to a home to give and receive love and build a strong mutual bond of devotion. Welcoming a new puppy into your forever home is an exhilarating time, but it also brings a wealth of responsibilities. At Almond Blossom Doodles, we want this homecoming to be a beautiful and joyous occasion, and we are here to support you every step of the way. We ensure that these adorably perfect family companions receive an abundance of love and affection from the moment they enter this world. Our hands-on approach helps socialize the puppies while also aiding in the development of their loyalty and trust. We put a piece of our hearts into each puppy that we raise and share with you so the transition into their forever home will be seamless. Our sweet and lovable puppies are ready to come home with you eight weeks after birth, and all puppies come with the following services: Two-year health guarantee A Start on crate training-one week before you take them home ENS Early Neurological Stimulation Age-appropriate shots and worming with records included Collar and leash Almond Blossom Doodle Swag Bag. We are a small, family friendly breeder of Goldendoodles and Labradoodles in Suisun Valley California. Our puppies are raised at our home and are socialized with adults, children, and other dogs daily. You can be sure your future furry family member will have a sweet, gentle disposition. We pride ourselves on our well behaved, cheerful, and intelligent puppies. Our labradoodles make terrific family companions, activity partners, and even therapy dogs. Our home is in Suisun Valley where our families have been farming for over years. To the west of our farm is Twin Sisters Peaks, the highest points in the part of hilly ridge that borders our little valley. This locally well known peak called Twin Sisters, and is where we take our name from. In this case, mom is a goldendoodle and dad is an Australian labradoodle. Since their settlement in this area, our past generations have always farmed our land. We continue to farm tree and row crops. But we also have great love for animals of all kinds. For many years, we helped our children learn to raise and respect animals through the 4-H and FFA. Just as our parents did with us growing up. Reserve your spot! Or give us a call today! We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Oakland California and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted! Mini Goldendoodle via sullytheminigoldendoodle How To Find A Reputable Mini Goldendoodle Breeder Selecting a breeder is a major decision that everyone who wants to bring a Mini Goldendoodle into their home has to face. You want to choose one carefully as their breeding practices will have an impact on the temperament and health of your Mini Goldendoodle puppy. Start by looking at online sources such as Google reviews, online forums, discussion groups and social media platforms to see what other people are saying about the breeder. Did they have a good experience buying from them? To take your research a bit further, you can ask Goldendoodle organizations and clubs based in your area about their opinion of the breeder you are considering to purchase from. Many Goldendoodle clubs also have their own lists of responsible breeders so they can give you additional recommendations for good Mini Goldendoodle breeders. You may also consider visiting some dog shows and events as they are a good opportunity to meet breeders in person and see their Mini Goldendoodles. You can also ask other dog owners that are showing their Mini Goldendoodles for breeder recommendations. Finally, ask potential breeders for references and consider contacting these people to ask about their experience with the breeder. Reputable breeders always prioritize the well-being of their dogs and strive for positive reviews. You should inquire about temperament and health of the Mini Goldendoodles these people purchased. Use this information to make an informed decision. All reputable Mini Goldendoodle breeders conduct them on their breeding dogs — whether they are breeding from purebred Golden Retrievers for F1 Goldendoodles and Poodles or from Goldendoodles for later generations like F2 Goldendoodles. A stipulates the health testing requirements for Goldendoodles and if the breeder is registered with G. A, you know that the breeding dogs have undergone full health testing. A heart clearance O. Ask to see documentation of these clearances before purchasing from a Mini Goldendoodle breeder. All responsible breeders should be willing to provide any health documentation. They should also be happy to answer any questions you have about their breeding program. However, if you have the opportunity to check out the facilities you should do it. Check that the kennels are clean, that they dogs and puppies have access to fresh water and also that there is not a build up of feces or urine. Comfortable living conditions: The breeder should keep their Mini Goldendoodles, Golden Retrievers and Poodles in comfortable living conditions. They should have large, comfortable kennels or dog beds and also have a decent amount of space to exercise and socialize with other dogs. Healthy breeding dogs and puppies: If you get the opportunity to meet the parents of the Mini Goldendoodle litter you are interested in, make sure they are well-tempered and also healthy. Sometimes the mother will be quite protective of her puppies so she may show signs of aggression. If you are purchasing a puppy online and getting it delivered, ask if the breeder would be happy to video call you or send videos of their Mini Goldendoodle puppies and breeding dogs to you. Ask About Socialization Mini Goldendoodle breeders should begin the socialization process before their puppies are sold. The puppies should be exposed to a wide variety of sounds, experiences, people and places so they can adjust to their new homes and adult life. Nevertheless, they should start exposing them to sounds like household appliances, provide mental stimulation with toys and games and also encourage playtime and interactions with their littermates and family. The most common ones are: Lack of registration: If a Mini Goldendoodle breeder cannot provide registration papers or other relevant documentation, it may be a sign that they are not operating a reputable breeding program. Overbreeding: Think twice about purchasing from a Mini Goldendoodle breeder who always has puppies available or offers an excessive amount of dog breeds. This may suggest that the breeder is overly focused on profit instead of the health and wellbeing of their puppies. Lack of health checks: A reputable Mini Goldendoodle breeder will conduct health clearances on their breeding dogs to ensure they are free of genetic health issues that could be passed on. If a breeder cannot provide documentation of these health checks, it may be a sign that they are not prioritizing health. Further Reading.

We can assure you that our puppies are bred responsibly and receive the highest quality care. We are licensed by New York State as breeders and provide proof of such if requested. Happy, Healthy Bloodline Happy, Healthy Bloodline Happy, Healthy Bloodline All our dogs are provided with the highest quality of care and are offered ample exercise each day. They are on a raw food diet and enjoy all the amenities our 20 acre property has to offer. More details about our dogs' lifestyles can be found under the "Life at Graceland Farm" section. German Shepherds are highly protective of their families yet maintain a friendly and playful nature. All of our dogs are properly socialized and puppies receive plenty of human interaction as they grow. Meet our dogs Graceland's Kamilla Kamilla is one of our black and tan long-haired females. She is European descent and has 5 champion Shepherds in her direct bloodline. She is incredibly well mannered, friendly, and obedient. She is an absolute joy to be around. Graceland's Olive Olive is a very playful and energetic pup. She is black and tan and loves attention from people. She also loves playing with the other dogs and is registered by the AKC. Pride of Graceland This is one of our most energetic and playful studs. He is black and tan and loves attention and playing with people and other dogs. He loves to jump, has a high ball drive, is protective, vocal, and is a joy to be around. In addition, he is registered by the AKC. Clocking in at over pounds, this is one big boy. Graceland's Hazel Hazel is one of our breeding females, she is registered by the AKC and has a very calm temperament. She is a very loyal dog, enjoys working, and is extremely obedient. She is a beautiful black and tan girl. Update: Hazel has retired in .She is living her best life with her loving new family on the Jersey Shore. Graceland's Hunter Hunter is our resident stud at Graceland Farms. He is a solid black shepherd and has a very calm temperament. He loves attention and enjoys running and playing with the other dogs. He loves hanging out in the house. In addition, Hunter is registered by the AKC and is the grandson of a world champion shepherd. At over pounds, Hunter is a very big boy and OFA certified for healthy hips and elbows. Graceland's Zara Zara is one of our black and tan long-haired females. She is an absolute joy to be around and loves people. Graceland's Zoe Zoe is one of our newest additions! She is a sable female who is extremely playful, obedient, and a joy to be around. She will begin breeding in a couple of years. Graceland's Holly Holly is a very playful and energetic pup. Graceland's Maple II Maple is a super excited, extremely social, and very outgoing pup. She loves to play with both humans and people and is a joy to have around. Maple is named after our first dog and is a favorite of kids and adults alike. She is registered by the AKC. Graceland's Aspen Aspen is one of our black and tan females who tends to be more reserved. She loves to play with other dogs and is otherwise very social. Aspen is registered by the AKC. They are super social, playful, and smart. They love being around people and other dogs and are living out their puppyhood years on the farm until they are ready to breed in a few years. Life at Graceland Farm All of our dogs are very-well taken care of and enjoy our newly built barn, offering them plenty of space to run and play. They are all treated like family and each have their own ft runners on which they get effective exercise daily. Many of them enjoy swimming, so on hot summer days they enjoy the pond on our acre property nestled in the heart of the Catskill Mountains. All of our dogs are fed an all-natural diet consisting of raw meat, raw eggs, and holistic dog food on occasion. They are all very well socialized, often coming into our home to enjoy time with the family. History Where are German Shepherd Dogs from? Perhaps never in the history of any breed has such concerted effort been put into improving a dog, mostly due to the formation in of the Verein fur Deutsche Scharferhunde SV, an organization in Germany devoted to overseeing the breeding of the German Shepherd. Breeders sought to develop not only a herding dog but also one that could excel at jobs requiring courage, athleticism, and intelligence. During World War I, they were the obvious choice for a war sentry. The Wolfdog was later dropped as it caused many people to fear the dogs. How big do German Shepherd Dogs get? The double-coat, with a thick undercoat that sheds twice annually, loses hair continuously but can be maintained with regular brushing one or two times weekly. What are the German Shepherd Dog colors? Black, tan, solid black and solid sable. How long do German Shepherd Dogs live? Lifespan: 10—12 years What are some German Shepherd Dogs facts and information? The German Shepherd held the number one spot in American popularity for many years. Although presently it has dropped from the top spot, the German Shepherd remains as one of the most versatile dogs ever created, serving as a police dog, war dog, guide dog, search-and-rescue dog, narcotics- or explosives-detecting dog, show dog, pet—and even shepherd. Related Content. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.