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The puppies are about 5 weeks old please contact xxx-xxx-xxxx Buy Now CKC White German Shepherd puppies I have 10 beautiful white German Shepherds puppies looking for their furever homes, they were born October 10th I've lowered the price to find them good loving xxxxx. They also come with CKC registration paperwork. Both parents are on site and grand parents as well. AKC paperwork ready for new owner. Puppies will have applicable immunizations upon going home. Please text Jeffery atxxxxfor more information. Kion is a healthy boy with all his shots update. If you are interested please contact me by email xxxxxx xxxx. House trained, crate trained, neutered, current vaccinations, wellness checkups, and a microchip. Shiloh is a sweet, playful, and sociable puppy. Great around all people, pets, and kids. He loves to play, cuddle, and go for walks. He comes with a crate, toys, food, food and water bowls. View Detail 12 weeks old German shepherd terrier mix puppy for sale Brown German shepherd terrier mix puppy with black markings. He is neutered, house trained, and crate trained. He is a lovable, sweet, playful puppy that loves kids, other dogs, and the outdoors. Crate and toys come with. Smart Purebred German Shepherd Puppies. Full of love and energy!! Parents on site. Text us at : xxx-xxx-xxxx for more information View Detail German Shepherd puppies We have 2 available male and female German Shepherd puppies. Text or call. He will come with his 1st, and 2nd shot and deworming. I have mother on site and pictures of dad. These pups are large boned, straight backed black and tan puppies. They have been bred for health and temperament. They are very outgoing,friendly, inquisitive and well socialised. These puppies have been bred on our working farm in the countryside. EMAIL xxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxx. If you are interested in my puppies contact me. They are ready to go. All puppies are very playful, happy, communicative and independent. They are already beginning responding to individual commands and have recently started their hygiene training. All have been checked by vet, been de-wormed and jabbed all paperwork available. Healthy and well socialized male and female puppies ready now. Shipping available. Only serious inquiries only Text me only at xxx xxx-xxx2. Parents are on premise big and healthy. .Born Jan. The deposit is a non-refundable deposit that will be subtracted from the total sale price. Sire loves the water as well so he does dockdog sports. His bloodline isn't here on the East coast. .We were breeding for size so I decided to breed with this beautiful Liver Dam who's pedigree is show line. The parents has a amazing temperament. Sire is a working dog and Dam is a good sound well raised dog they both are very friendly with kids. Sire weighs 94lbs. Dam weighs 89lbs. Red Collar Shows confidence and a willingness to meet strangers. He shows confidence and ability to adapt to different situations. Has some dominant characteristics. Pink Collar She showed confidence and independence as well as the ability to accept leadership. Purple Collar Showed confidence and willingness to meet strangers and willingness to accept leadership. He should be very adaptable to different situations and shows a willingness to please. All of them show a willingness to please. Confidence and intelligence. None showed fear. They will do well in obedience. Aptitude Test was given to puppies Will deliver puppy in a 75 mile radius. .Serious inquiries only Text or Call Ed xxx-xxx-xxxx ampm View Detail Long haired German Shepherd Hi I am looking for a five star home for my five star long haired German shepherd called Max , this is by far the hardest thing I have ever had to do , Max is my pride and joy ,I have had him since he was 7 weeks old ,I am having to re home him because of a stupid housing policy. If you have any questions plz don't hesitate to ask. Home raised, vet checked, first shots, dewormed. Socialized, happy, healthy pups. For more information, please View Detail Chunky German Shepherd Pups We have a lovely little of German shepherd puppies for sale ready for viewing pups raised in family home with children Puppies will be microchipped and vet checked Wormed to date AKC registered Contact us for more info and pictures. .So, you are already quite familiar with all the great characteristics of the German Shepherd and you are certain that you want to become an owner of this breed. We agree, and encourage you to make this decision! Also, you are now more informed about some of the best German Shepherd breeders in Alabama. What you must want to know next, is what price you can expect to pay for a German Shepherd. The price of this dog depends on many factors, but in general, it can be said that the German Shepherd is not a cheap dog, neither to buy nor to maintain. This is probably a scam! Responsible breeders invest a lot of effort, time, and money into raising top dogs. So, if the price of a dog seems high to you, you should understand that quality simply must come with a price. Also, a reliable breeder will immediately show you all the information about the health examinations and vaccinations of a dog. A breeder who offers you a German Shepherd for a low price will most likely not do the same and, if he suggests that you buy his puppy at a low price as soon as possible, you can be sure that you are dealing with an irresponsible breeder whose goal is to make money as easily as possible. Champion bloodlines: If you choose a reputable breeder, you will be sure to get a GSD with a purebred bloodline. For this reason, younger German Shepherds are significantly more expensive than adult dogs. Final Thoughts Finding a dedicated breeder is actually your first step to a happy coexistence with your future puppy. You will have already decided that the widely popular dog, the German Shepherd, is the type of dog you want for yourself and your family, and now, you will just have to set out in search of the perfect breeder. All you might know is that you want a purebred and healthy dog. This is of course a good start, but we want to warn you to concentrate as much as possible on choosing the right breeder. So, how do you do this? Contact the kennel first and make an appointment. This way, you will get to know both the breeder and the dog and be able to draw conclusions about the treatment of the dogs in this kennel. He will also offer you the option of contacting some of his previous clients and his vet, to confirm the veracity of his words. We hope that with these tips, along with our list of the 7 trusted German Shepherd breeders in Alabama, you will soon be able to welcome the perfect GSD dog into your home! Related Content. Welcome to the Alabama state page on TrustedPuppies. Known for its rich history, warm hospitality, and southern charm, Alabama is an excellent place to find and raise your new German Shepherd companion. Our goal is to connect you with the most exceptional German Shepherd breeders and puppies for sale in the region, ensuring you find the perfect furry friend for your family. Our site features a wide variety of reputable AL breeders who specialize in raising amazing healthy puppies. Our Alabama breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. Discover the dynamic dog-friendly scene in Alabama, featuring inviting restaurants, spacious dog parks, and engaging dog shows. For those passionate about dog shows, events like the Birmingham Kennel Club Dog Show provide an opportunity to appreciate the elegance and charm of German Shepherd canines while connecting with fellow enthusiasts. In the rankings of dog ownership among the states, Alabama occupies the 33rd position, boasting an estimated thousand dogs. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable German Shepherd breeders provide safe and affordable flight delivery, complete with a dedicated flight nanny who accompanies your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring their safety and comfort as they travel to their new home in Alabama. Many breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery, utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option allows your German Shepherd puppy to be transported directly to your door by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet transportation. Begin your search for the perfect German Shepherd puppy on TrustedPuppies.
A full-grown male English Bulldog weighs about 50 to 55 pounds and stands 14 to 16 inches tall. A full-grown female English Bulldog weighs about ten pounds less at 40 to 44 pounds and stands at 12 to 14 inches tall. According to Care. This will be around inches tall for a male English Bulldog and approximately inches tall for a female English Bulldog. As for weight, a 6-month-old male English Bulldog will weigh about 33 to 37 pounds, while a 6-month-old female English Bulldog will weigh around 26 to 33 pounds. Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide that details 39 dog care tips on health, puppy-proofing practices, training, dog safety, and more! How much bigger will my English Bulldog get? If your English Bulldog is over two years old, they are probably fully grown. Any additional weight they put on may be excess and should be discussed with your veterinarian. Do their paws look big next to the rest of their body? They may still have room to grow as this is a classic puppy feature! A dog rarely grows to be larger than their parents, so this will provide you with a general idea of their final adult size. What is the size of a full-grown English Bulldog? According to the Bulldog Club of America Bulldog Standards , an English Bulldog should appear stocky but symmetrical with no excessively prominent features. English Bulldogs are especially prone to gaining extra weight and may exceed these weight estimates. Your veterinarian will be happy to discuss food type, quantity, frequency of feedings, and treats to get your English Bulldog back to their ideal weight. English Bulldogs may require extra attention due to some genetic health problems that are common for the breed. For example, English Bulldogs will require regular at-home baths, this cleaning is specifically to prevent infections under their skin folds. English Bulldogs are also highly prone to putting on excess weight, which is detrimental to their health. The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention estimates that .The English Bulldog is one of the most severely affected dog breeds and brachycephalic syndrome can lead to difficulty breathing, respiratory distress, heatstroke, and difficulty exercising due to their breathing restrictions. All of this can make weight loss even more difficult for the English Bulldog breed. Because your English Bulldog may have a harder time breathing than other dogs, your vet can recommend safe ways to allow them to exercise and enjoy life without getting overheated. If your pup has a particularly bad case and has difficulty breathing even when not exercising, you can talk to your veterinarian about surgery for Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome which is a common procedure done to help English Bulldogs and other brachycephalic dog breeds, like pugs, breath more easily. Taking your English Bulldog to regular veterinary appointments to keep them healthy and happy is one of the best things you can do for them! Not only can your veterinarian provide personalized advice to keep your pup healthy, but they can screen for common English Bulldog health problems, like skin infections, hip and knee problems. Unfortunately, veterinary care can be pricey. Veterinarian treatments for health issues, like hip and knee problems, can easily cost thousands of dollars. Treating medical issues, like accidents or sudden illnesses, can be expensive, but this should never be the deciding factor in treating your English Bulldog. Final Considerations As pet parents, we do our part by providing quality food, exercise, and care at home, but we also need to take our dogs in for regular veterinary appointments. A professional can provide you with personalized recommendations for your dog, as well as testing to detect any health issues early on. Prevention and early detection are vital in keeping our dogs healthy and happy! English Bulldog puppies grow into silly, lovable, and wrinkly dogs with a lot of personality. Compare and enroll in a top English Bulldog insurance plan here and gain the peace of mind that you'll always be able to do the right ting for your pet. At Pawlicy Advisor, we always want the health care decisions you make for your pet to be based on what you and your veterinarian think is best for them rather than being limited by financial restrictions. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. The body wrinkles may be visible on their legs, and the skin may seem a bit baggy on their body, but it is still challenging to determine the actual build of the puppy. Their builds become a bit more apparent as they begin to stand and walk, giving you a glimpse of their stance. The nervous system is rapidly developing at this time, and vision is also beginning to grow. Interaction matters, even at this young age. This sets the stage for how well they will bond. Their builds become more apparent, and the skin and wrinkles really begin to develop. Baby teeth are usually all in around weeks. This is when many pups will go through the finger-chewing puppy stage. They eat more every day as they go through various stages of digestion in preparation for the first solid food introduction around this time. They begin to fill out as they transition from milk to dry food and complete the weaning process. At about 8 weeks, your puppy has just started getting used to sleeping through the night. You may notice that their legs look a bit long and thin. This is because their legs are generally the first area of growth in preparation for the weight they will maintain throughout their lives. Your puppy is ready for adventure and has a great passion for exploring and playing with toys and their littermates. You can begin training your puppy at the latter part of this age. With this, their heads may appear too small for their bodies, which is perfectly normal and usually only lasts a few months. As a 16 week old English Bulldog, your pup is entering adolescence. Hold on for this. You might see chewing, not listening, and barking. You will see a resurgence of teething as the puppy teeth fall out and the adult set comes in. Much like humans, this can cause pain and irritation as the teeth push through the gums. Here again, you may see that their legs appear long and skinny for a month or two, and the entire process starts again. Adolescence is at its peak, around seven months. You may see an increase in rebelliousness, stubbornness, and not listening. For the most part, puppyhood has completed its course. The stages of growth for your English bulldog above are all estimates. There are certain ailments that are common in the English Bulldog. In fact, because of drastic changes in appearance over the years, they are susceptible to a large number of diseases and more than many other dog breeds. Feeding them nutritious food will help keep them within the target weight appropriate for their age. This plays a part when it comes to maintaining that healthy weight range. Getting your dog out for a walk also gets you out and active as well! Spaying And Neutering Weight gain and lethargy are common worries following either surgery, but a causal link has not been found between the two. Many times the surgery takes place when the puppy is in the midst of rapid development and growth, so the weight gain could simply be caused by normal development. However, consider consulting your veterinarian about any worries or questions you might have. A male English Bulldog typically weighs more than a female English Bulldog so expect this discrepancy. Having your Bulldog get overweight can lead to hip dysplasia, cancer, osteoarthritis, high blood pressure, liver disease, diabetes, or even heatstroke. By the time they turn one, most English bulldogs will stop growing. However, most of their growth and development has taken place during their first year of life. Are English Bulldogs good pets? English Bulldogs are wonderful pets to have as they are loyal and a great conversation starter. At what age do English Bulldogs start walking? Around week 4, English Bulldogs start to walk.
My name's Aaron. I've been trying to find a family for a while now and I have dreams of going for a walk with a new mom or dad, and maybe playing in a yard. I love my belly rubbed and hanging out watching West Wing; I'm a man of classic tastes. I love food and I don't like sharing much but I'm willing to trade recipes. I'm an Aries, I love Gordon Ramsey, and my dream is to make beer battered cod and chips someday. I can jump fences, and everyone thinks that it is not safe to wander off so I will need a secure, 6' privacy fence. Since we are unable to do a meet and greet, we recommend Aaron be the only dog. We had a DNA test done on Aaron and found out he is .Because we care about our rescues and their future, some animals have certain new family requirements before they can be released to their new home. We will ask for a video that shows the entire fence so that we can verify that there are no holes or gaps where the dog could escape. We do not accept invisible fences. Please note, the health certificate fee is nonrefundable after the exam has been done and the transport fee is nonrefundable within 2 days of departure. Considering Aaron for adoption? Welcome to the Maryland state page on TrustedPuppies. Known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and charming coastal towns, Maryland is a fantastic place to find and raise your new Boxer companion. Our goal is to connect you with the most exceptional Boxer breeders and puppies for sale in the region, ensuring you find the perfect furry friend for your family. Our site features a wide variety of reputable breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our MD breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. Discover the vibrant dog-friendly scene in Maryland, featuring inviting restaurants, spacious dog parks, and engaging dog shows. For those passionate about dog shows, events like the Maryland Kennel Club Dog Show provide an opportunity to appreciate the elegance and charm of Boxer canines while connecting with fellow enthusiasts. In terms of dog ownership, Maryland ranks 24th among U. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable Boxer breeders provide safe and affordable flight delivery, complete with a dedicated flight nanny who accompanies your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring their safety and comfort as they travel to their new home in Maryland. Many breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery, utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option allows your Boxer puppy to be transported directly to your door by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet transportation. Begin your search for the perfect Boxer puppy on TrustedPuppies.
Things to do with your English Bulldog Kentucky is a great place to live with an English bulldog. The state has a diverse landscape, plenty of outdoor activities, and dog-friendly businesses. Hike the Trails Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. There are many hiking trails in Kentucky that are perfect for English bulldogs. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog, and take breaks often. Visit a Campground Camping is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many campgrounds in Kentucky that allow dogs. Be sure to bring a tent, sleeping bags, food, water, and other supplies. There are many places to fish in Kentucky, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to get a fishing license and follow all the rules and regulations. Go Boating Boating is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many places to boat in Kentucky, both on rivers and lakes. Be sure to bring a life jacket for your dog and follow all the safety rules. There are many places to swim in Kentucky, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to supervise your dog at all times and follow all the safety rules. Visit a Dog Park Dog parks are a great place for English bulldogs to run and play off-leash. There are many dog parks in Kentucky, both in urban and rural areas. Visit Dog-Friendly Businesses Kentucky has a number of pet-friendly businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and stores. These are just a few of the many things you can do with your English bulldog in Kentucky. With its stunning scenery, endless activities, and friendly people, Kentucky is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in Kentucky? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. They date back hundreds of years and are also known as British Bulldogs. They are a muscular, well-built dog with a wrinkled face and a pushed-in nose. This breed has won the hearts of generations of families for decades. They are considered to be one of the most popular dogs breeds in existence today. These fantastic puppies have gained popularity worldwide due to their playful, loyal, funny, and caring personality. They are laidback and tend to get along well with just about anyone or anything. They have very approachable demeanors and enjoy the companionship of their family. They also have a very easy-going personality which is one of the reasons they have remained a popular family dog. The English Bulldog does enjoy activity time and burning off energy, however, is not an overly energetic breed of dog. The correct ratio of meat-based protein and micronutrients, as well as healthy carbs and fats, will keep your dog feeling and looking his best. Most people recommend feeding this breed two meals each day, spaced about twelve hours apart. This will help to ensure the dog is provided with the proper nutrients he needs. It is also important to remember to provide your dog with proper dental care. It is suggested that his teeth get cleaned a minimum of three times a week. Failing to keep his teeth clean can contribute to health issues. Although properly cleaning his teeth will take some practice to get good at, in time, this will become easier for you and your pup. The English Bulldog grows to be between fourteen and fifteen inches tall. At maturity, the English Bulldog weighs between fifty and fifty-five pounds. The average life expectancy for this breed is between eight and ten years. English Bulldogs require regular bathing and grooming. It is suggested that they are bathed as frequently as every week up to no more than every four weeks depending on their activity level and lifestyle. This smooth coated breed does best with routine brushing which is essential to maintain healthy skin and a healthy coat. Frequently Asked Questions What are some of the health issues English bulldogs are likely to face? The English bulldog has various health issues with the most alarming being cardiac and respiratory complications. English bulldogs are also prone to dyslexia in the hip due to their relatively large body size. Skin infections are also a concern do to the wrinkly and folds nature of the skin. What is the lifespan of an English bulldog? The English bulldog can live up to years on an average scale. This is usually due to the numerous complications and health challenges the bulldog faces in the course of life. How frequently do English bulldogs shed? English bulldogs shed more frequently during the cold seasons like winter and spring. Compared to other dogs, they shed rather moderately and even lesser as they age. How hard is it to train an English bulldog? This breed of dog is known for its stubborn nature and can be really difficult especially for novice dog owners to get the hang of. Patience and routine should be the keywords when dealing with a bulldog. Are English bulldogs good watchdogs? The English bulldog has a natural instinct to protect its territory. Even though the bulldog is not usually much of a barking dog, in the case of an intruder it is well equipped and confident to take on the challenge at every cost. Are English Bulldogs dangerous to their owners? The English bulldog is not a dangerous pet. It is very much territorial and somewhat apprehensive to unfamiliar faces, but once it warms up to you, the bulldog is one of the most loving and loyal dogs. How much exercise do English Bulldogs need? The English bulldog on average needs about 30minuites of exercise every day to keep it mentally and physically healthy. Are English Bulldogs family dogs? The English bulldog may seem aggressive at first glance but you will get to find that they have a contrasting character to their appearance. They are perfect around children and can play all day. They are extremely lovable and friendly. How big do English Bulldogs get? English bulldogs can weigh up to 50 pounds and can grow as tall as 15inches. Male or female English Bulldog? This depends solely on the owner as both genders have their specific pros and cons. English bulldogs are very friendly and warm dogs and are amazing around children. No wonder they are one of the most sought-after breeds in the world. Are you interested in purchasing a English Bulldog? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
Our goal at the Ranch is to create a home-like environment the best way we can for each rescue dog. While they are in our care, our Adoption Counselors work hard on behalf of our rescue dogs to find a new loving home that is the right fit for the dog, and the new family. Pictured left, this entire family has adopted all their dogs through Coastal K9 German Shepherd Rescue San Diego A Coastal Connection From the uncertainty of the unknown to the solid ground of a second chance at life, our rescue dogs are welcomed into a new family at Coastal. A family of dedicated staff and volunteers are committed to helping our dogs become as well-adjusted, happy, and healthy as possible while they are with us. Through this labor of love, each dog develops a special bond and connection with one or more of our volunteers. Whether they are referred to as advocates, angels, or champions, our Coastal family members go out of their way to give our rescue dogs the attention and love they need and help them feel "at home" while they are awaiting their forever home CONTACT. Located in beautiful Southern California, we strive to breed superior quality family dogs that will not only make great companions and protectors for your family but that also represent the German Shepherd breed well with the exceptional temperament the breed is known and loved for worldwide. We breed only top German V and VA bloodlines that possess superior health and temperament through generations of hip and elbow certified and temperament tested dogs. Additionally all of our dogs are tested for Degenerative Myelopathy to be sure we are producing puppies safe from this disease. Additionally all of our dogs are DNA tested Clear for the MDR1 gene that can cause mild to severe reactions to a variety of medications. Please visit our testimonials page to read review from many of our clients through the years. Also be sure to visit our Dogs For Sale page to see retired females and males we currently have available to the right homes. Check back often as we are always updating photos of our available puppies. With keeping a small number of dogs we have time to give plenty of love and individual attention to them and the puppies when we have them. Our dogs are not kept in kennels, they live with us as part of our family, with room to roam outside on our one acre property and a warm spot inside to sleep. All puppies are raised inside our home in a clean and healthy environment. All whelpings are supervised by us and assisted as needed to ensure the best start and to protect the health of the mother and her puppies. All puppies are well socialized with small children, cats and our other dogs. Temperament is very important to us, our breeding dogs have wonderful temperaments that they pass on to their puppies. Puppies are temperament tested so that we can help you to find the perfect fit for your family and your needs. We actively show our dogs on the local, national and international level thereby striving to breed dogs of quality bloodlines and structure that adhere to the German SV standard for the German Shepherd dog. We make every effort to continue to learn and to improve our bloodlines by importing dogs of superior quality with top German VA bloodlines to bring you the highest and best quality puppy for you and your family to enjoy. Our hope as breeders is that we can provide the best quality German Shepherd puppy with an outstanding temperament that will in turn make a lasting impression on you and your family like they have in ours. I have so many customers that have been lifelong fans of the German Shepherd, that have grown up with German Shepherds and long for that companionship again with the dog of their childhood. I look forward to providing the dog of your dreams to you and your family! Call today to begin your future with a great German Shepherd Dog of your own. Call or email for an appointment to visit us and to meet our dogs and puppies. We have answers. The cost of German Shepherd San Diego puppies can be affected by a large range of variables such as coat color, gender, breeder experience, pedigree and much more. Our goal is to match families with the best puppies possible. How do you vet San Diego German Shepherd breeders? All of the companies and German Shepherd breeders in San Diego CA we partner with are followers of our binding Breeder Pledge, and we never work with puppy mills. In our humble opinion, Uptown Puppies is the most efficient and fun way to find your dream dog! Unfortunately, that popularity means there are tons of puppy mills and unethical breeders out there, too. Do you have white German Shepherd San Diego available near me right now? Because we work with passionate, experienced, professional breeders, businesses and fellow dog-lovers, we have a great track record of matching families with awesome puppies all over the US. Our MatchMaker process is what helps connect future dog-owners like you with our carefully selected, screened and approved companies and breeders who will set you up with your dream German Shepherd. Male deposit 1- ES Female deposit 1-CM Male deposit 2- Female deposit 2-VP Male deposit 3- Female deposit 3- Male deposit 4- Female deposit 4- If you would like to know litters coming later than this please give us a call Before you place a deposit, Please download or print our guarantee and contract. Fill it out and return to us either by texting it, scanning and emailing or through regular mail. Remember that regular mail is slower and cause you to not get the spot you want if I get other deposits and contracts before yours. Once I receive your signed contract and your deposit, I will sign one and send one back. New-contract-June 15 We distribute the best dry food available for dogs and cats! Most people want to feed the best and LA is just that! Or if you will be taking home a puppy soon, make sure you buy a puppy start pack. The start up pack is on the same page as the food. Performance shows what the dog IS. If you wanted to ship your puppy, you would need to first come to our kennels and then ship the puppy out yourself. Or you can use a ground transportation company. By placing a deposit on a litter not yet born, please keep this in mind and be willing to move your deposit onto another litter at a later date. This allows us to offer puppies to pet homes at a more affordable price. You will still get AKC papers except they will say limited. If you bred a dog that was registered limited, then you would not be able to register the offspring. This limit however, can be lifted by the breeder. That said, while it can be done, I strongly urge anyone who lives in an apartment to think carefully about how much time and work it can be to keep a large, working dog in an apartment. I will not sell a puppy to anyone who lives in an apartment and leaves the dog home alone all day. At least one person needs to be home during the day. The dog needs to be taken outside to play at least once a day and taken for potty breaks many times EVERY day. Also, please check with your apartments rules on German Shepherds; some complexes do not allow them. New strains of the Parvo Virus are abundant and it is my job to keep puppies safe. I use a high titer Parvo Vaccine at 4 weeks but this may not protect all puppies. So please understand as much as you would like to visit with your puppies as they grow I can no longer allow this until they are 7 weeks. I will send out emails with pictures or videos weekly. No outside dogs are allowed at anytime. Thank you for understanding how important it is for me to keep the puppies safe. If you do visit other breeders, please do so on a different day that you visit. Von Ward Kennels will take back any puppy at any time in their lives if their owners can no longer care for them. Please never take a Von Wards dog to a shelter if you can no longer keep them. While most of our dogs are larger than the standard, we do have a couple of breeding females that are within standard.
Print Retrievers, for the most part, make great family dogs. They are also smart, so they learn quickly and their strong willingness to please often makes retrievers a great addition to the family. But some retriever puppies are a high-energy ball of fire, one that is difficult to train or even handle in daily life. And sometimes there will be signs of aggressive behavior that are concerning. However, there is a fine line between puppy play behavior and hyper and aggressive behavior. Some owners are reluctant to stop such behavior thinking that it is just puppy behavior and therefore the dog will outgrow it. If you have a retriever puppy that is hyper or aggressive you might wonder what can be done and why they are acting that way. Here is some guidance on this topic. What are normal puppy behaviors? It is normal for very young puppies to nip at your hands and your feet. It is also normal for them to chew on things, jump on you and walk all over you. An 8-week-old puppy nipping at your hand might at first seem cute and sweet. But one bite from those exceedingly sharp puppy teeth and you might decide its not so cute. Those teeth can puncture your skin in a second and draw blood just as quickly. So, while it may be normal for a puppy to nip at your hand or foot, it is not a behavior that you want to ignore. Puppy play is naturally aggressive When puppies playing with their litter mates, the play can be very aggressive. This is natural, as dogs, they are always figuring out their pack and where they fit into the pack. Recognizing puppy play You can recognize when a retriever puppy is playing by the stance they take. They also may run around in circles, growling, or barking in high pitched barks, but when they do this their ears will be up, their tail wagging and they do not look threatening. It is uncommon for puppies under 12 weeks of age to exhibit true aggression. True aggression involves a dog exhibiting prolonged growling with a stiff posture and baring of teeth. Their hackles the hair on their back will be raised and they will be poised in a threatening position with ears back. If you were to approach a dog in this position which I do not recommend they will often move toward you and try to bite or snap at you. This type of aggression is something to be fearful about and is not healthy. Isolate the dog as much as possible and consult a veterinary or other professional for help or advice. What are signs of aggression in puppies All puppies can act aggressively, but if you take steps to address the aggressive behaviors while your dog is a young puppy, you can make a huge difference on how or whether that aggression progresses. These are all forms of aggression and none of them should be tolerated, not as a puppy and certainly not as a dog. There are also dominance behaviors that puppies exhibit that are often mistaken as aggression. They include things like jumping on people, stepping on people, pushing you around, forcing you to pet them and others. While these behaviors can be done aggressively, and should still be corrected immediately, they are not the same as aggression. Definition of puppy Because we often get clients that bring out their dogs that are close to a year old and refer to them as puppies, I want to define what I consider a puppy. A puppy is a dog under six months of age. Most retrievers are a good size by around six months. They will often continue to grow up until about a year and a half, but they have the bulk of their size by the time they are six months. And by six months, you need to have a handle on any aggressive behaviors, or you are going to struggle with eliminating them. Is it normal for a puppy to be very aggressive? It is normal for a puppy to test you with aggressive behaviors. And to be clear, that place should be at the bottom of the pack, under all your family members. I understand that your dog is a part of your family but allowing your dog to be in a position above any or all your family members is just asking for trouble. Treating your dog as a human and attributing your dog with human thoughts and reasoning is not fair to your dog or to your family. Love your dog, but make sure your dog is the lowest member of your pack and you will have a much easier time with obedience and basic good behavior. How to stop puppy growling Growling is often the first step for dog aggression. Or, if you try and take a toy away from your dog. No matter how or when you see the aggression start, it is important to nip it in the bud right away. A sharp NO command sometimes is all that is needed, especially if it is well-timed with the first sign of the growl or nip. Other times you may need to grab your dogs muzzle and squeeze. If these corrections do not seem to be helping, I would immediately crate my dog if it growled at me. Be sure you do not let your dog out of the crate while he is exhibiting a growling behavior. Only let him out if he is behaving appropriately. How to stop puppy nipping or biting A dog that nips or bites you often started as a very young puppy. We teach our puppies at 8-weeks-old that biting and nipping people is not allowed. And at this very young age, they learn it very quickly. Your pup may cry out or squirm, but that is fine. In fact, you need to be quite stern to make an impression. If it continues, you are not being firm or consistent enough. How to stop puppy growling while tugging During play, it is not uncommon for retriever puppies to growl and tug at toys, blankets, even your pant leg. This behavior is usually just playful and natural. However, I would still try to end this behavior as soon as possible. While almost harmless at first, this behavior can escalate quickly as your dog grows bigger and stronger. You can end this behavior first by not participating in it. If you start tugging with a toy with your puppy, you are going to encourage the behavior. The second step is to discourage the behavior with a sharp NO command. It can help if you say GIVE when you take the item. This will start to teach him the GIVE command that will be helpful later if you are a hunter. How to stop puppy baring his teeth A puppy or dog that bares his teeth to you is threatening to bite you. Even if the puppy goes no further than to bare the teeth and growl, you need to end this behavior. This behavior is far more dangerous than the puppy that nips at your hand. The nips may be done in play, since that is how puppies play with one another, but baring of teeth and growling is different. And you must handle it differently. I am not talking about lifting your dog off the floor with the shake, but if your puppy is very young, that may indeed be a great correction. Have you ever witnessed a mama dog correct her puppies? This is not a violent thing, just a natural correction for a puppy. The puppies rarely cry out or whimper when given this correction, they just walk away and understand that the behavior they were exhibiting is not acceptable. If your dog continues to bare his teeth even after this correction, you may have a bigger problem on your hands, and I would proceed carefully. True dog aggression is no joking matter. Dogs with aggression problems can snap at any time and go from baring their teeth to full out attacks. Hyper behavior is different from aggression. A hyper dog has a lot of energy and may not know how to control or channel that energy. Often hyper behavior is a genetic trait. In this sense, it is not something that you can eliminate. But you can take steps to make it more manageable. Exercise more Dogs that are hyper need more exercise than dogs that are more docile in nature. If your dog is hyper and is not getting enough exercise, the hype behavior is going to drive the dog to other behaviors that you may not enjoy such as chewing up your dining room table leg or your favorite pair of shoes. For instance, if your dog is hyper and is jumping up and down all the time, and you not only allow the jumping but pet him or her and give praise while your dog is jumping, then you are unknowingly rewarding the jumping behavior. Give your puppy time to mature Retrievers are often full of energy while they are young, well some a bit longer, but tend to slow down as they mature. But as they mature they do usually slow down and become a bit less energetic. Training Highly energetic dogs can benefit greatly from structured training programs. Programs such as the ones we offer here at Otter Tail Kennels, can teach an energetic dog control and channel their energy into hunting or retrieving which can make home life more manageable. There are even some things you can do at home to get more control of your energetic dog. Practice sitting I know this sounds boring, and for you it is. But for an energetic dog that does not like sitting at all, having them sit for 30 seconds, or a minute or two can be very challenging. They will need many reminders at first, but over time they will learn to settle and sit calmly. You can slowly increase the amount of time. This simple obedience drill will help your dog learn control. Teach your dog the kennel command so that when you say Kennel, they run into their crate and stay there until you release them. This basically sends your dog on a time out and forces them to practice control and settle. Final thoughts on why my puppy is so hyper and aggressive For dogs under 6 months of age, much hyper and aggressive behavior is simply puppy play. You must teach your puppy boundaries and the earlier you teach them the better. Be consistent in your corrections and persistent, and over time you will reap the benefits. You can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time happy retrieving. You are bound to want to know when your biting puppy will grow out of this phase and how you can speed that process up. Biting, as you will have discovered is usually accompanied by lots of noise! Why do puppies bite? So why do puppies bite? My puppy is biting hard Puppies do bite hard and it does hurt. But I want to reassure you that even at 8 weeks old, your puppy has learned to moderate his bite in play. Puppies have powerful jaws designed to tear through flesh and crush bones. Those of you who feed your puppy a raw diet will know that even an 8 week old puppy from a medium sized breed can crush bones the size of your little finger. He is deliberately attempting to be gentle. Puppy Biting — Bite inhibition This ability, that your puppy has, to moderate the power of his jaws in play, is called bite inhibition. It is something that his mother started to teach him when he was just a few weeks old. And now it is your turn to take over and complete the training process. Growling and Puppy biting One thing that often worries people who have a new puppy in the family, is the growling that accompanies puppy biting. It sounds horrific. Great snarls and snaps accompany the biting and the puppy can appear quite demonic as he grabs onto your skin, or clothes. Tugging away with all the strength he can muster. Ninety nine times out of a hundred this is completely normal play biting. Is my puppy biting aggressive? You cannot determine whether or not a puppy is biting aggressively by how hard he bites or by the volume of the noise he makes. Play biting puppies bite hard and growl fiercely. Some puppies do occasionally draw blood. But these are not normally savage or crushing bites and the puppy is clearly enjoying himself. Fierce but fun! The play biting puppy will launch himself at the target of his bite. Whether it is your slippers or your fingers, with equal tail-wagging enthusiasm, hanging on grimly and grabbing repeatedly when the item is removed from him. All this, shocking though it may seem, is normal, and is not a sign that your puppy is going to be an aggressive dog! In fact some of the gentlest and most amiable breeds the labrador for example are the worst and fiercest play biters. The puppy that is a cause for concern is the puppy that is frightened. Because although puppies rarely bite through aggression, the nervous puppy may become aggressive as he matures Is my puppy afraid? A scared puppy may bite and scared puppies can grow into scared adult dogs so this is something you need to address quickly. You will know that your puppy is scared because he will try to avoid whatever it is he is scared of. A really frightened puppy will sometimes give off a distinctive musky smell. This hiding, and retreating, and the scared smell are warning signs that you have scared your puppy badly, or purchased a poorly socialised puppy. In this situation you need to get specialist help right away. Your vet should be able to advise you. For the vast majority of puppy owners then, biting is normal puppy behavior. Will my puppy biting stop naturally? To some extent biting is a phase caused by natural puppy playfulness and teething. Some puppies do stop biting with very little input from their family. Which is great. You may feel he should have grown out of it by now. We can physically prevent puppies from biting and we can train puppies not to bite. Both of these are good strategies. Or when children are getting upset, or visitors are winding your puppy up. Prevention usually involves interrupting the biting behavior, then redirecting the puppy into an alternative and more acceptable behavior, such as chewing on a toy. Or, it may involve temporarily separating him from his playmates. Interrupting the puppy biting In mild cases you may simply be able to put a toy in your biting puppy's mouth and get him tugging on that instead of on your fingers. If you are on the floor with the puppy stand up. And if you are standing up, turn and walk away from the puppy. This is where dog gates come in very handy with small puppies. A standard baby gate works fine for most breeds of dog. Managing the puppy You may have to pick up your biting puppy to remove him from the scene if he is biting your children for example, rather than you If he bites your hands and clothes as you try to restrain him, put him on the other side of a barrier or in his crate or puppy playpen for a short while. Although the puppy does learn from them, these are useful management techniques to enable you to control the situation. They help you to keep your puppy calm, and prevent the biting escalating through over excitement. Over-excited puppies Puppy play biting is directly linked to excitement. The more excited your puppy gets, the more and the harder he will bite. And the harder it will be to interrupt and distract him. Rough play excites puppies and noisy play does too. Children tend to squeal when they play and get very physical with puppies. One of the first rules they need to learn when playing with dogs, especially big dogs, is to stand up and stand still when the game gets too much. Limit such play and call a halt to it if your puppy is biting. With medium to large breed dogs, physical rough and tumble play is not a great idea. It can lead to dogs bowling people over or humping them, neither of which is very pleasant. Stopping play when it gets rough is a good management strategy and it is a form of training too. Over time, your puppy learns that biting and rough play loses him his playmates and that people simply leave if he is being mean. When do puppies stop biting? Many puppies have stopped biting completely by six months of age and biting is usually subsiding by the time that the puppy is heading towards five months old. This is if the puppy has been managed appropriately If people have been exciting him, or rewarding him for attention seeking behavior then biting can persist And it can be much more of a problem in bigger stronger puppies than in little ones. Training Puppies Not To Bite The idea of this exercise is to teach a puppy to accept being stroked and handled in any way, without touching us with his teeth. The event marker is a distinctive sound. Even around his mouth, without him making any attempt to bite you. You can also make it easier for him by starting this training when he is calm and not distracted. But for now, keep things simple. It can be a good way of getting the training started so that you have chance to say YES and give the puppy the opportunity to learn what you want him to do. Over the next few sessions, you can work on getting your hand closer and closer to the puppy. Until you are brushing the sides of his face without him making any attempt to mouth or bite at you Progress to touching and holding his collar, stroking his ears, grooming him, examining his paws and so on, all the time rewarding him for the correct behavior. Anytime the mouthing returns, back up to a point where he can succeed and move forward more slowly again Bite Inhibition Training Some experts feel that puppies should be allowed to mouth and even bite gently for a week or two before being prevented from biting altogether. Simply follow the instructions for managing your puppy above when he bites hard. But allow him to mouth you when he bites gently without much pressure. This is a great way to teach a dog excellent control over his mouth. After a couple of weeks of this, you can progress to the training exercise I outlined in the previous section. Older puppies that bite in play have often learned that this gets them a lot of attention. They have discovered that people squeal and shout and get quite cross. Sometimes these people push and shove the dog around which young dogs quite enjoy when they are playing. For these dogs it is important that you stop all physical play, with all family members If a puppy is biting hard at your hands when you try to interrupt his game. Or an older puppy is getting out of hand biting at clothing, you need to put your puppy on a harness and house-line a short trailing leash. This will enable you to control your puppy, and take him to a calming place, without handling him. You can just pick up the end of the line and lead him away. Older biting puppies are often bright and bored. And the best approach to avoiding future episodes of bad behavior is a structured programme of training and interesting activities. A professional dog trainer using modern positive training methods will be able to help you with these. Summary So now you know some tips on how to stop your puppy from biting. The first few weeks can be tough with a determined biter in the house, but you will get through this and come out the other side. A few months from now, this difficult period will be a distant memory In the meantime, focus on keeping your biting puppy calm, avoiding too much rough play, and redirecting his biting onto appropriate toys and activities. Spend some time on the training exercise set out above. Are Golden Retrievers Aggressive? The Honest Truth Posted on April 5, by Galen Kauffman Share: Golden Retriever owners will most times be highly indignant if you dare to suggest that their Goldens have even an iota of aggression in them. They will be quick to tell you that dog experts will even use this big golden, friendly dog as an example breed when looking to confirm what a calm, amicable dog is. And the puppies? Are golden Retrievers aggressive as puppies? Not at all. Alright, so as a puppy it is only natural that he will nip and bite your hand as he is teething. He has the cutest little growl too. However, not training your puppy and not taking him along to socialization classes can allow this puppy habit to develop into something serious. Is Aggression Common in Golden Retrievers? Are Golden Retrievers aggressive? Only very seldom. Calm and laid back as your Golden Retriever is, there are going to be times when your golden doggo may be aggressive. They are loving, playful, calm, friendly, smiling, amiable dogs. Are male Golden Retrievers aggressive more often than females? Not really. As mentioned, these dogs are rarely aggressive, but it is more likely that the male Golden Retriever will be more aggressive than the female. Aggression in Golden Retrievers nearly always comes from poor breeding, bad dog owners, inadequate training, and lack of socialization. You can also add in abuse, neglect, and cruelty. Golden Retrievers are known as control groups for aggression A control group is a standard to which comparisons are made in a dog aggression experiment. There is a control group and an experimental group. The inclusion of a control group helps the researcher to make conclusions from the study. It is only with a control group that a researcher can determine whether a treatment can have an effect on an experimental group. In the study, golden retrievers were tested and used as a control group. Seventy Golden Retrievers were tested in the temperament test. Levels of escalation in aggressive behavior were scored. A total of .Goldens are not typically aggressive Most Golden Retriever owners are familiar with the good-natured temperaments of their Goldens, and they would consider an aggressive Golden Retriever to be an unheard-of thing. Dogs are like kids and the Golden is just a big loving child wanting to please you. And rightly so. Nobody in their right mind would want an aggressive Golden Retriever around their small children. Nonetheless, even though the chances are almost nil that your Golden has any aggression in him, there are one or two factors that can cause aggression in Golden Retrievers, and with good reason, and we look at some of them below. Fear Fear causes any dog faced with a threat to defend itself by biting. Veterinary behavior specialists tell us that fear-related aggression is just that — it is used as self-defense. It may well be out of sheer desperation that a cornered dog bites when it anticipates a threat. A Golden Retriever that has been regularly smacked learns to generalize — believing that every human hand wants to strike him. He goes into self-protection mode by biting the hand that reaches out to him. Fear is also instilled in a dog such as the Golden Retriever when an owner uses harsh, cruel punishment-based training methods. Harsh behavior increases aggression but also anxiety. Danger Dogs act in unusual ways when they sense danger. Can Golden Retrievers be aggressive in the face of danger? This abuse can take different forms. Goldens who have suffered from emotional and physical abuse can respond to anyone with aggression. He will in all likelihood be scared, agitated, and aggressive. Socializing your Golden Retriever will prepare him for a broad range of situations so that he is able to interact with various animals, people, and situations. It teaches him to react to the world out there in a calm way without fear and aggression. Illness Aggression in a Golden Retriever can have a medical cause. Just like the human child gets whiney, cranky, and aggressive when ill and with a bad headache, our canine friends do as well. Medically-induced aggression in a Golden Retriever can result in warning signs of growling, baring teeth, and general aggression. Brain inflammation occurs in conditions such as rabies and encephalitis. The aggression in this instance is most times a neurological reaction to the effect of the inflammation on the brain. Low thyroid levels affect mood and thyroid therapy can relieve aggression in dogs with hypothyroidism. Dogs are like humans in some ways and if they have woken up feeling under the weather, they may respond by showing signs of aggression. Injury There are many causes of aggression in dogs and injury is a common cause of canine aggression. Your Golden Retriever is nearly always a well-behaved dog, so if he suddenly shows signs of aggression, you just know there is something unusual up with him. If you find him acting out of character and wanting to nip you, get him to the vet as soon as possible for a thorough examination. He could have chewed on something that has caused injury to the teeth or even lodged somewhere, causing injury and pain inside the mouth. Irresponsible Breeding Canine aggression always poses concerns. Aggression in dogs is researched by people wanting to understand breed differences. Research always reveals that the Golden Retriever is a calm, good-natured golden beauty with hardly an aggressive bone inside him. But what about irresponsible breeding? A dog can suffer from all kinds of complications in pregnancy and when ignored because of the costs it can be tragic and heartbreaking. A responsible Golden Retriever breeder is one who knows the breed well and who has health clearances to show that both parents are free of genetic disorders. They follow the AKC breed guidelines for health testing. The test includes hips, elbows, thyroid tests, hearing tests, DNA testing, and heart tests. Also before breeding, dog parents need additional tests for Brucellosis testing and both dogs need to be up to date with all their vaccinations. Their characteristics, their bad attitude, their lack of affection, their lack of concern, and their troublesome lifestyle all cause aggression in Golden Retrievers. Signs of Aggression in Golden Retrievers Golden Retrievers are sometimes like other dogs in showing their aggression and they will growl and bark while simultaneously becoming hyperactive. Their floppy ears are raised, the feathered tail is raised and stiff and their hackles are raised. If your Golden has turned into a bit of a biter, snapper, and growler, there has to be a good reason. So how does one stop aggression in Golden Retrievers? Socializing Ensure that your Golden Retriever puppy stays with his mother until he is 8 weeks of age. Just like young kids have to be disciplined in order for them to display appropriate behavior, your puppy Golden will need to be trained and socialized. Check out with your local vet where the best puppy socialization classes are. Choosing a Good Breeder By the time your Golden Retriever puppy is 8 weeks old, he is ready to go to his new home. The way he has developed so far will be dependent on how the breeder has raised him and his siblings. Puppies kept in an unloving, cold, hostile environment will have aggressive tendencies later on and not be able to function properly in your household. Choose a good breeder very carefully. Are you wanting to buy the cutest, most beautiful, friendliest, balanced, loving, non-aggressive Golden Retriever puppy? My Golden Retriever Puppies has just what you want, after all, they are the trusted source for responsibly-raised Golden Retriever Puppies in Ohio. Know your breeder and find yourself a healthy, lively, happy, amicable Golden who has been raised with love and care and dying to shower you with Golden Retriever kisses. Training Although it is difficult to find one iota of aggression in a Golden Retriever, any kind of aggressive behavior can be avoided with proper training. Apart from early socialization, you can train your dog firmly, fairly, and consistently. You could also allow a reputable professional dog behaviorist or trainer to train your Golden to mix with other people and dogs without showing aggressive tendencies. Positive reinforcement training is great when a tasty treat is given as a reward for the desired behavior. Never confuse your dog, and make sure that everyone in the family uses the same signs and commands that he is familiar with. Exercise If you want to avoid aggression in your Golden Retriever, exercise him. Dog aggression is a concern for any dog owner and even your mild, calm Golden can begin to feel the stirrings of aggression when he is never exercised. The Golden Retriever is a large dog and he is also a sporting breed. Your Golden will need a consistent workout every day for at least 20 minutes at a time. Hitting a ball for him with a tennis racquet can be an excellent running exercise for him. You have to be patient with him and show him kindness, gentleness, and fairness when training him. Conclusion Are Golden Retrievers aggressive? They can be, but only under certain circumstances. It is things such as improper breeding, abuse, and fear from humans that put aggression into any dog. Know your Golden and get him to the vet if you suspect uncharacteristic aggression which could be brought on by pain or illness. You can easily find one by checking out our puppies here! All our puppies are raised by our own group of small, independent breeders who lovingly care for and socialize with each of them daily so they grow up happy. We even take all the extra steps to provide the best healthcare for them. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. While most people do not think that agressive golden retriever is a problem, it can be depending how the dog was raised. If a dog or puppy is abused from early on and then you adopt this dog, it can have some aggressive dog behavior that needs to be corrected as soon as possible. The kind, friendly, and confident manner of Golden Retrievers have made them so popular that many unscrupulous breeders were attracted towards them. As a result, careless breeding of Golden Retrievers have developed several health and temperament problems. Unprovoked Golden Retriever aggression is one such problem that has developed due to irresponsible breeding. Though aggression is an instinctive nature of Golden Retrievers, they were never unwanted. Golden Retrievers had shown aggression to hunt, to defend themselves from other creatures, to defend resources such as food, a place to sleep, and a mate. Golden Retriever aggression has been classified in several ways — dog aggression, food aggression, aggression towards strangers, and aggression towards family members are some of the common types. Aggressive Golden Retriever Dog : rare but it can happen. It is rare for a Golden Retriever dog to turn out to be aggressive, but it can happen. There are many causes for this type of behavioral issues. In some cases, poor propagation can result in an aggressive Golden Retriever. Dominance issues are one of the most common reasons for aggression. Most often times, Golden Retriever dog aggression issues will simply be acting out of fear. This is acknowledged as defensive aggression. For instance, if your golden was hurt by a big dog or young child when she was youthful, she may react aggressively when uncovered to these triggers later on in life. Dealing with defensive aggression can be scary and irritating at the same time. While you do not want to scare your dog or cause more emotional trauma, you naturally want to decrease the incidences of aggressive behavior. One of the most important things you can do when dealing with defensive aggression is to not disregard the problem. It is important to deal with the issues as soon as possible mainly because aggression can increase over time if not properly addressed. Aggressive behavior can begin with some Golden retriever dogs when they are as youthful as five or six weeks old! This is why it is very important to invest in your golden retriever from a reputable breeder. One good way to stop aggressive behavior is to make sure that your dog or puppy is properly socialized. A critical period for socialization is from the time a dog is 6 weeks old until he or she is 14 weeks old. Following your puppy is weaned and has received her first sequence of shots, you can take her out in public. Some people choose to socialize their dog in public before she has acquired shots. You can minimize the risk of your dog contracting a virus by holding her while out in public. Aggressive behavior in any dog is easy to spot, ears will be laid back, teeth showing and body more in a downward slant as if to attack its prey. In addition, you should be able to recognize the signs of dog aggression to learn how to deal with an aggressive golden retriever dog. This signs can include: Dominate aggression is typically the bully type of aggression, which can lead to food dominance or having problems with dogs or people. Fear aggression typically happens when the dog is so afraid that they go into a fight or flight mode. Typically their tail may be between their legs even when they are showing signs of aggression. Territorial aggression happens when there is typically more than one dog in the home and one is territorial over food or toys. Some dogs become very aggressive when they are possessive of their owners. This means that they may bite or growl if others approach their owner. Many dogs become aggressive with punishment which is the direct cause of humans. This means harsh punishment which is abuse can lead to the dog becoming aggressive to protect itself. Some dogs display aggression when they are in pain, especially a senior dog, therefore it is important not to lift a dog that is in pain. Maternal aggression, if your golden retriever dog just had a liter of puppies, you might not want to begin playing with the puppies straight away because this can cause the motherly instinct to kick in and make her aggressive toward you. It is important to recognize the type of golden retriever aggression that your dog is displaying because sometimes it is just situational, such as pain aggression. Dogs are like people and they deal with pain differently, which means that some dogs want you to comfort them when they are in pain and others want you to leave them alone. It is vital you know the cues your dog is giving you so that you understand if it is situational or if your dog needs obedience training. While golden retrievers are not know for their aggressiveness, any dog in certain situations can become aggressive. Half of all the dogs out there bite someone or another dog at least once in their life. Dog biting is not desired behavior, no matter whether it is aimed at humans or dogs you need to put a stop to it as early as possibly can. By stopping this behavior as early as you can you will be able to prevent the chance of your dog developing anti-social habits. If you can stop your dog from biting as early as you can then you will be able to have a nice friendly dog which will not be a risk to other dogs or other people. When stopping dog biting too many people don't stop to think about the actual reasons for it happening, actually Golden Retriever aggression and biting are two very natural things when they are in danger or feel threatened. Your dog might bite because he is scared or for a variety of other reasons. If your dog is stressed for example then he might bite, just think about what you do when you're in a foul mood. Some people may become aggressive when they are in a bad mood, and dogs are exactly the same. There are different ways that humans can relieve this pressure, however dogs don't have as many options. In order to stamp out Golden Retriever aggression and biting you need to show your dog that any such behavior is completely unacceptable to you. There are a number of different things that can cause dog biting and aggression, including fear, when they are with young, or when they feel threatened. If you are aware what causes dog aggression and biting then you may be able to avoid all of these things. The next important step that you want to look at is training your dog, you will be able to train your dog so that he doesn't show any aggression. It's possible to do this training yourself or with the help of a professional. If you train your dog properly then he will be able to know that it is wrong to bite. There are also a number of other options that you have when you want to find ways to stop your dog biting. If you notice that your dog is biting from a young age then you stand a better chance of getting the problem sorted out easily. You need to socialize your puppy with other people and dogs to make him feel comfortable around strangers. Try to get your dog used to other people touching and petting him, you can do this by allowing your dog to sniff each new person before they are allowed to pet him. Your dog will enjoy this as it is like a handshake! Make sure that you do not tease your Golden Retriever dog, teasing your dog might get some good reactions but it's not good for your puppy. Teasing games will only aggravate the puppy and make him annoyed. So if you have a puppy that is biting then now is the right time to start training him not to bite. A puppy's bites may not hurt at this stage, however they will do very soon! Make sure that you socialize your dog and get him completely used to strangers before he reaches adulthood. If you do all of these things then you should be able to stop your dog being one of the ones that bites other people! Nobody wants a Agressive Golden Retriever that bites, fortunately you don't have to put up with it any longer! You will learn how to deal with it. This means that you should never discipline your young puppy harshly, especially if she is between 8 to 10 weeks old. When you discipline your dog, do not hit her with your hand or another object, yell at her, or use other harsh discipline methods. This can actually backfire and cause more aggression, especially if your dog is defensive aggressive. In Golden Retrievers, the majority of the cases of dog aggression and food aggression have genetic components. According to one such study, breeding for calmness in Golden Retrievers have messed the fundamental brain chemistry of the dog resulting in unwanted aggression. Selective breeding against the nature of the dog has fastened the process. However, if a Golden Retriever has developed a dog aggression or food aggression we can at least control it through proper socialization and obedience training. Living conditions, excessive punishment, being attacked or frightened by an aggressive dog also influence aggression in Golden Retrievers. While genetics may play a role in raising aggressive behavior, environment can play a huge role. If your dog is abused or neglected, she will have a very good chance of starting to be aggressive. A dog that has poor living conditions, very harsh masters and no social expertise is very most likely to develop behavior issues. If your dog shows aggressive behavior immediately after one year of age, you will need to address the problem quickly. You may need to enlist the help of a trained professional to do this. Recall that it is important to not reward your dog for aggressive behavior. If you deal with your dog or pet your dog immediately immediately after aggressive behavior, you are in essence rewarding that behavior. If your dog becomes aggressive since it is fearful, you will need to take some time to work on social competencies and socialization. You should also seek the advice of a trained professional who has practical experience dealing with defensive aggressive behaviors. Aggression can be controlled. Nonetheless, it is very important to take the steps necessary to solve the problem as an alternative of ignoring behaviors and hoping that they will go away on their own. Here are some tips for Controling Agressive Golden Retrievers Aggressive Behavior : Firstly you need to work out why your dog is biting. Once you know the reasons then you will be able to isolate these and work on correcting them. We're going to take a look at a few tips which might be enough to make your life slightly easier. Social Life While your Golden Retriever puppy is young you should make sure that he socializes with as many other dogs as possible. This will help him to understand that the other dogs and people are not a threat, and in actual fact they can all get on like a house on fire! When your Golden Retriever puppy is young it might look cute when your puppy bites, however it's certainly not cute when your puppy gets older! Consistent In order for your Golden Retriever dog to learn anything you need to be consistent. Whenever your dog bites anybody, anything or any other dog then you need to show him that it's just not acceptable. Once he starts to learn that biting is not acceptable then he will slowly learn not to do it. Don't get too annoyed Dogs thrive on contact with other people and so you cannot just ignore him when he does something wrong. If your dog is agressive then tell him off, then for a few minutes do nothing, however after that stroke him and pet him. You need to show your Golden Retriever dog that you still love him, otherwise he will only get annoyed, just make sure you keep your hands a long way away from his mouth! Don't hit your dog When you are telling your dog off some people may tell you to strike your dog. However this is never a good idea. It isn't sensible to strike your dog because he is being disobedient, or aggressive. Just give him a warning. Physical punishment is a surefire way to lose your puppies trust forever. Trust is vital for any future relationship you have with your dog to be a success. Don't play too roughly If your Golden Retriever is aggressive then you shouldn't play roughly as this might encourage him to bite you. By playing roughing you are actually showing him that this behavior is ok. You need to show that it is not acceptable for your dog to do anything you don't like. By playing rough he will think that it's ok to play rough with you too. Some dogs are harder to stop biting or being agressive than others which may cause you a lot of frustration. However there are plenty of other methods to help you find ways how to get dog to stop biting. Water spray You could get one of those spray water bottles used to mist plants and put some water in it. Whenever your dog does anything you don't like then you can say no, and spray him with water. This should startle your dog, and as he doesn't like it he should associate it with being bad. Praise Another option is to reinforce everything good that he does. Whenever he does anything right then give him lots of praise. Positive reinforcement is thought to be much more effective than negative punishment. All dogs love treats and praise, so if you only give it to them when they deserve it then they will soon get the idea. Though Golden Retrievers are equally amiable with both strangers and those familiar to them, they sometime show aggression towards both of them. The reasons may vary for a Golden Retriever aggression towards strangers and towards family members. One reason why a Golden Retriever shows aggression towards strangers is that they might never have the chance to get used to them. Again proper socialization and lot of outings can solve the problem. Socializing Golden Retriever means that you start exposing them to a wide variety of new experiences, new people, and new animals from a young age. Aggression towards family members can be commonly because of two reasons— either your Golden Retriever is trying to defend himself from a perceived threat, which he sees in any of the family member or he is not comfortable with the treatment he is getting from you or other members of the family. Golden Retrievers have an overly-possessive behavior and when you try to take away his belongings or you approach it when it is eating, they develop aggression against you. This resource guarding nature of Golden Retrievers which gives rise to aggression actually boils down to the issue of dominance. Your Golden Retriever has a tendency to rank each member of the family, and has his own perception of where he ranks in that environment as well. And a higher-ranked Golden Retriever acts aggressively in defense of resources. The best way to treat Golden Retriever aggression is consistent and frequent obedience work with lot of socialization. In fact, the earlier you start the socialization process the lesser are the chances of aggression. Golden Retrievers also show aggression if they are not handled and groomed properly. Picking up his paws and touching them with the clipper and taking them into the bath definitely helps in reducing the chances of aggression. Conclusion about how to deal with an agressive golden retriever dog Agressive Golden Retriever can quickly become a serious problem which is often blamed entirely on the dog. However your dog doesn't know any better, and so it is actually your responsibility as the owner to get the problem sorted. It can be very frustrating when dogs bite, however it is possible to stop your dog biting and being agressive today. So, Keep in mind that golden retriever dogs are smart, therefore, if you recently adopted a full grown dog and it is showing signs of aggression, you should immediately get your golden retriever dog in an obedience training course. Read the full disclosure here. Tasty finger! Your golden retriever puppy is as friendly as can be — great with kids, respectful of other dogs, and not overly attentive to your cat. Yes, golden retrievers are known for their good-natured demeanor, but they are still dogs — not so very far removed from their wild cousins, and they can be unpredictable when faced with stressful, disturbing, or frightening situations. One of our jobs as responsible dog owners, of course, is to keep our dogs safe, but we may not always be able to protect them, and we may not always be able to prevent them from biting through fear or when in pain. What is Bite Inhibition? Puppies begin learning this from their mother and siblings as soon as they start to tumble around with each other in play. If they bite too hard, they are scolded by their mother or alerted with a yelp from their siblings. Eventually, they learn how hard is too hard, and they use their teeth more gently in play. Human Sensitive or Advanced Bite Inhibition By the time your puppy moves into your home, they will have been using their bite inhibition skills for weeks. Your puppy needs to learn that human beings are fragile and should be treated with care. There are many professional trainers who recommend that you simply train your puppy not to bite. This seems like a practical course of action, and it does work — in the short term. Teaching a puppy not to bite will give you quick results, but it may mean they never learn how much force is safe to use on people when they are forced to bite in an emergency. So if they do eventually bite, they will know to hold back the pressure safely and will not cause anywhere near as much pain or damage as they otherwise might. Why is Bite Inhibition Important? Believe it or not, even the most gentle dog that has been trained from a young age never to bite, can react to certain triggers. Those triggers are fear and pain. Consider these situations: Your dog has been suffering from chronic ear infections and hates to have his ears handled. The neighbor stops by with her toddler, who immediately runs to your dog and fondles his sensitive ears roughly. What will he do? You and your dog are walking down the road like you do every morning when out of nowhere comes a huge dog who attacks your dog without thinking twice. You manage to pull your dog away, but in the process, your frightened dog bites your arm. Your sweet golden retriever has gotten themself tangled in some barbed wire while hiking. As you loosen the wire from her skin and fur, she snaps at you, biting your hand. You may never experience any of these situations. By teaching bite inhibition while your puppy is young, you will be far safer and ready for any of these situations should they occur. Teaching Advanced Bite Inhibition Following is a general guide to the bite inhibition skills your puppy learns and when, as well as where you should aim for their skills to be at certain ages. She will start the puppies off by teaching them how rough is too rough during nursing and play. These lessons begin when the puppies start nursing day 1 and continue until the day you pick your puppy up from the breeder. This works for some puppies, but for others, it just seems to arouse the pup and make matters worse. You will have to experiment to find out what works for you and your pup. You should withdraw all of your attention from your puppy for very hard bites. Do not over-correct your puppy so they become afraid of biting. After your puppy has calmed down, use a chew toy as a reward and let them chew it in your lap or lying by your side. This teaches you puppy that there are other ways to keep their mouths and teeth busy. By four or five months, all force behind play bites should be eliminated. Kids tend to play rough with puppies, and puppies will get rough right back. Your puppy needs to know that every human being is sensitive to their bites, not just you. It is a process that sometimes lasts months, depending on your puppy. Be prepared for this, and remember that long-term results in your adult dog are more important than curtailing puppy bites as painful as they may be. Supervise your puppy around children — If you have young children at home, you will have to think carefully about how you will protect them and your puppy. Little puppy teeth can cause a lot of pain, especially when your pup is still learning to control those urges. Young children can also cause a lot of pain to small puppies. Always supervise very carefully when your pup and children are together. A tired puppy is a happy puppy — It will be much easier to teach bite inhibition if your puppy is not bouncing off the walls. Make sure they get enough exercise every day. Not only will this help with training, but it will also help prevent all kinds of other destructive behavior. Conclusion Teaching bite inhibition to your golden retriever puppy is a gift you give to your pup that will last forever. In reality, more than 4. Although only a tiny percentage have to seek medical attention, the experience can be unnerving for the person being bit and the dog owner. But to help your pup, you should understand why puppies and older dogs bite and what type of training will inhibit their inclination to bite. So, why do Golden puppies bite so much? Like human babies, puppies also teethe. Teething starts around three weeks when their first milk teeth come in. Once this process begins, your puppy will want to bite and chew on almost everything, including you! Biting helps relieve the pain in their gums and soothes some of the irritation as new teeth come in. Retrievers were originally bred to pick up and retrieve prey, which means using their mouths as a tool is part of their genetics. In the 19th century , hunters would use this breed to help them hunt waterfowl and other game. Once they shot down a bird, the dog would find it, pick it up in its mouth, and bring it back. Another factor is those foundational canine instincts. Guarding people, digging holes, turning around before lying down, and biting — these behaviors are part of the canine DNA. These early versions of domesticated dogs developed strong social instincts, which is why dogs today can become nervous when separated from their packs. When they feel alone and anxious, they might bark, howl, or start chewing or biting on anything they can find until you come home. Goldens, in particular, seek the approval of their owners. Training your puppy not to bite unwanted things and be gentle when using their mouth is known as bite inhibition. Most Golden Retriever puppies outgrow their biting habits. Usually, when teething is over and all their adult teeth have come in — at around six and seven months old — you can expect the puppy-biting phase to end. However, not every pup will stop on its own. Some will need training to break the habit. Of bites reported from to , Golden Retriever bites account for one bite every two years. If your Golden Retriever is biting, it might have underlying issues that require addressing. But seeing your older Golden bite can be alarming. Even the calmest dogs might bite if provoked. The better you understand where your dog is coming from, the easier it is to implement a solution. For instance, say an intruder breaks into your home. As a reaction, your dog might bark or growl. And, if they feel threatened enough, they might try to bite the intruder. This is an example of territorial aggression. Fear: if a dog feels cornered or trapped or is startled, their first instinct might be to bite. Maternal or protective: when your pet feels that someone in their pack is at risk, they might act aggressively to the perceived threat. Predatory: this is when a dog reacts to fast-moving things and starts aggressively chasing. Playful Playful biting is a lot like Golden Retriever puppy biting. This type of biting occurs when the dog never outgrows the puppy-play biting stage. If playfulness is behind the problem, teaching bite inhibition now by reinforcing positive behavior can go a long way in helping your dog drop their bad habits. For example, if a rambunctious puppy continually nips at an adult Golden Retriever, the older dog might snap at the younger puppy. This can happen when a dog is in pain because of a health issue. Golden Retrievers are genetically predisposed to several conditions that can cause pain and discomfort, including the following: Hip and elbow dysplasia Cancer Eye conditions, such as entropion Getting your Golden Retriever puppy from a reputable breeder can help to reduce the chances that your dog will develop these and other health conditions. The Golden Retriever breed has one of the highest cancer rates. And older dogs, in general, are more susceptible to disease. If you notice your dog starting to bite and growl for no apparent reason, it also might be worth talking to your vet to rule out health problems. But as every dog has a unique personality, you might need to work through different methods before successfully teaching bite inhibition. Here are three methods you can use to teach your Golden Retriever puppy not to bite. Method 1: Socialization Puppies who are properly socialized learn bite inhibition while nursing and playing. Both of these social feedback mechanisms help to teach a puppy to bite softly or not at all. Bringing your puppy to meet other playful pups or taking them to the dog park when they are ready can help them learn not to bite. A reputable breeder will also spend time socializing your Golden Retriever puppy with both other dogs and people. These interactions can help your puppy learn how to be gentle before you even bring them home. The key to this training technique is redirecting their focus before your dog can react. Method 3: Deterrence The name of the game here is to deter your puppy from having a satisfying experience when they start biting. There are a couple of ways deterrence training can work when teaching your Golden Retriever to stop biting. Golden Retriever puppies want to please their owners. Another option is to use a safe deterrence spray for puppies. For example, if your puppy has a habit of biting your furniture, you can apply an anti-chew spray like a bitter apple or bitter cherry. Eventually, your dog will start associating that fun thing to chew on with an awful taste and lose interest. Know that positive reinforcement is your best friend, no matter what training you use to teach your Golden Retriever to give up on biting. Successfully training your Golden Retriever comes down to understanding why the biting occurs. You can contact expert dog trainers who have experience with biting. Some trainers specialize in addressing underlying issues, such as aggression. Otherwise, your dog might never grow out of their habits. Instead, use socialization and puppy training tools to help your little Golden Retriever learn how to respond to different environments, triggers, and people. With social and lifestyle training, puppies are exposed to various situations, so they learn how to behave around other people, at the park, vet, and home. Ultimately, education during puppyhood is the foundation of a happy and healthy adulthood. At Snowy Pines, we teach our White Lab and English Cream Golden Retriever puppies the skills they need to be happy, tail-wagging dogs, including bite inhibition. Check out our Wagology curriculum and lifestyle modules today! Share on.
Exercise, Growth, and Joints Exercise Labradors not only love exercise, they need exercise. We all look forward to taking our puppy for a walk, however it is important not to over-exercise your puppy. In natural play, puppies will romp until they are tired and then stop to lay down for rest. When walking a puppy on a leash, they cannot stop when they normally would for rest. Too much exercise or walking can severely damage their bone and joint structures irreversibly. This should be taken seriously. THE RULE is: No more than 5 minutes of exercise for every month of age So that means, at 2 months old 8 weeks , your puppy only needs to exercise or walk for 10 minutes per day. At 3 months of age 15 minutes of exercise and so on. If you walk your puppy too far too soon, your puppy may develop hip and elbow dysplasia as they get older. Labradors have been known to develop dysplasia younger than other breeds of dogs. In many of these cases, it is often due to environmental factors such as over-exercise, running on hard or strenuous surfaces such as concrete or sand , continual jumping or agility work. Things to avoid with your puppy: No jumping in or out of car, especially larger cars. Lift the dog or use a ramp. No throwing balls or frisbee great distances for your puppy to chase. The sudden stopping and over reaching with the front legs is dangerous. No agility, jumping or flyball before years old Do not let other dogs knock or push the puppy over continually, includes body-slamming Avoid much stair climbing which can increase the risk of dysplasia No fast turns or roll-overs Good exercise: Swimming is great, since there is no weight-bearing impact on their joints. Remember, labradors love water! Walking on leash, for no longer than the recommended length of time for their age Self-directed play is an overriding rule for any puppy under 18 months old. The majority of exercise should be free play, exploring, and noodling around Hide and seek games are fantastic, as the dog can move at its own pace looking for its toy or treat or you. Size is a factor as large dogs, especially ones that like to play with paw whacks, can inadvertently injury a young puppy. Supervised play is critical. You need to teach the puppy a release command. All these games are forms of exercise for puppies and are a great way to help your puppy learn useful lifelong skills and qualities. Growth plates and bones: Development and injury Growth Plates Growth plates are soft areas that sit at the ends of the long bones in puppies and young dogs. They contain rapidly dividing cells that allow bones to grow longer until the end of puberty. Growth plates gradually thin as the hormonal changes approaching puberty signal the growth plates to close. In puppies, this closure normally completes between 18 to 24 months old in labradors. After sexual maturity, the growth plates calcify and the rapid cell division ends. The growth plates become a stable, inactive part of the bone, now known as an epiphyseal line. Dogs bones are held together with muscles, tendons and ligaments soft tissue. In an adult dog, if a joint experiences a stress such as bending the wrong way or rotating too much, the bones will hold firm and soft tissue will be pulled, resulting in a sprain or tear. Why this matters so much, is that unlike a sprain, injuries to the growth plate may not heal properly or not heal in time for the puppy to grow up straight and strong. Injury to a growth plate can result in a misshapen or shortened limb, which creates an incorrect angle to a joint resulting in yet more future injuries when he grows up, including dysplasia. These xray images show open and closed growth plates in a puppy and adult dog. Bone Strength In addition to having soft growth plates at the end of long bones, puppies bones in general are softer. Spiral fractures of the tibia lower leg bone are very common in puppies. A spiral fracture is where the bottom half of the bone twists in the opposite direction of the top half. Any exercise that puts torque twist on a bone puts the puppy at risk of a fracture. For an example, movements such as twisting and turning suddenly can cause these type of fractures. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia This is where we recommend you read our Health and Genetic Testing page, where we talk about hip and elbow dysplasia. It is critical that you, as a puppy owner, understand as much as you can about hip and elbow dysplasia, how you can help prevent it, and what your breeder should be testing for. On the other hand, an underfed or malnourished puppy or dog is also at higher risk of injury. Muscles mass directly influences strength, likewise inadequate calcium and nutrients affect bone density. A body condition score of about is healthy for a young puppy. Once an adult, the ideal body condition score would be about 5 for a healthy, fit labrador. Sterilisation Desexing In larger breeds, sterilising young puppies at a young age has shown to increase the risk of joint disorders and injury. We recommend sterilisation occurs between 24 months old for this reason. This recommendation is outlined in our Health Guarantee. We discuss this more under Desexing or Sterilisation. Post header Skip post header How much exercise does a Labrador need? Labradors are amongst the most popular family pets in the UK thanks to their loyalty, gentle nature, and intelligence. Like most dogs, they thrive with regular exercise, keeping them healthy and happy. How much exercise does an adult Labrador need? A healthy adult Labrador generally needs at least 80 minutes of high-quality exercise per day. Of course, when setting exercise goals for dogs with existing health issues including obesity , you should consult your vet first. What types of exercise are best for Labradors? When we say high quality, we mean just that. Try and incorporate off-lead time into their exercise routine and take a ball or toy to play fetch with — running will help to raise their heart rate and burn off more calories. How much exercise does a Labrador puppy need? For their first three months, your puppy will get enough exercise from tearing around the house, playing and causing chaos. How much exercise does an old Labrador need? At an advanced age, your dog will have less energy in general and be more likely to suffer from health issues that may limit their mobility. Be observant — being the loyal companions they are, Labradors will push through a lot of pain to keep up with you. Watch for excessive panting, changes in their movement, and exhaustion as signals that they have overstretched themselves and adjust their activity accordingly. Can you over-exercise a Labrador? Labradors have the capacity to build up incredible fitness that will see them on the go all day long, but for most, there is a limit on how much they can do. Gradually increase their activity levels, using a PitPat to check in on their progress. How far can a Labrador walk? A working Labrador could be expected to cover many miles every day through the undergrowth and even water. However, your pet Labrador will have slightly different stamina, depending on how much exercise they are used to. Getting out and about with your Labrador keeps them happy and healthy and can be a highly rewarding experience for you both. Download our app for free to see if PitPat is for you. You might also like Single page Single page Top 10 most active dog breeds Got energy to burn? Single page Single page 10 ways to exercise your dog indoors Whether you find yourself stuck indoors because of the weather or for any other reason, your dog still needs plenty of exercise. Here are our top tips for exercising your dog indoors. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Whether young or old, big or small, yellow, black, chocolate, from field lines or show lines, your Labrador needs exercise. It will keep their heart and muscles strong, their mind stimulated and their weight under control. But how much exercise does a Labrador need? Labradors Are a High Energy Breed The Labrador Retriever is a high energy working breed, initially bred for very physically demanding work retrieving game for hunters. This would involve all day hiking, running and swimming in sometimes difficult conditions. So Labrador Retrievers were bred to have lots of energy and be very active. And though their main role in life today is as a family pet, they still have those same genetics that made them suited to their original role. Dog Ball Thrower. Yes, you can throw a tennis ball extra far with the Chuckit, but two reasons why I love it: 1. In this state they will often resort to destructive behaviors such as digging and chewing…and will often be very restless, may bark excessively and try to escape your home and garden at every opportunity. Insufficient exercise can also lead to weight problems with Labradors. Excess weight is a problem because it can lead to all sorts of problems such as damage to their joints hips and elbows , heart disease, increased blood pressure and increases the risk of diabetes. So a lack of exercise leads to behavioral problems, hyperactivity and possibly an assortment of health problems. However, as a general rule of thumb, a normally healthy adult Labrador Retriever will need 1 hour of exercise every day. The more relaxed Labs just 45 minutes per day, the more energetic 1. This can be made up of running, swimming, playing fetch , jogging alongside you…anything that goes beyond a gentle walk. But if the first consideration is your Labradors age, how much do puppies and the elderly need? Nice for long runs with your Lab. If you have older dogs or children, the puppy may well try to keep up with them and over-exert themselves, playing to exhaustion and damage their developing joints. So keep an eye on them and interrupt play if need be, to give them plenty of rest. Once they are fully grown, they can go out for much longer. The 5 minute rule should be sufficient to keep your lab puppy fit, burn off excess energy yet not over-exert them and cause possible developmental issues. Continue the 5 minute rule until your puppy is at least one year of age where you can then begin to exercise them more vigorously. This is highly dependent on your labs overall health and can vary wildly from one Labrador to another. Some labs may need to slow down from the 7th year onwards, while others remain extremely active beyond their 10th year. As Labradors get older, many develop arthritis, dysplasia and other health issues that can prevent a Labrador from enjoying or needing exercise as much as they used to when young and healthy. They will likely still try to chase a tennis ball all day and hike mountains just to please you, even if it may be doing them more harm than good. Try not to put them in this position. As your Labrador ages, you need to be more observant , looking for changes in their movement, excessive panting, slowing down, feeling tired. And during grooming sessions and massage, check for any painful spots indicative of sore joints or other problems. We noticed Linus was stiff getting up in the morning and decided to try adding glucosamine to his diet. We saw a noticeable difference a few days later and an added spring in his step. If your Labrador tears around your home like a tornado. If your Lab displays any of the restless and destructive symptoms described above, try increasing their levels of exercise for a few days and see if their behavior problems improve. However, if you have money burning a hole in your pocket you might want to check out PetSafe Automatic Ball Launcher. Over-exercising very young and elderly Labradors can do more harm than good. For your adolescent and adult Labrador, exercise them well. As a general rule of thumb, aim for 1hr per day and scale this up or down depending on your Labradors individual needs. This could mean 45 mins for the more sedate and elderly, or 1. And at the end of the day, think of it like this: You have the best exercise machine to rival that of any gym to keep you fit and healthy yourself. And hey, what fun!!! What better motivation and need is there to keep yourself in shape? Do you mostly agree with the above? Please let us know in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be chuffed. Take a look at these first few articles. All the ingredients you need for a happy home. But for now, beside your bed is the best place for your puppy to sleep — it will help them feel safe. Puppies like their crates rather cave-like; we suggest covering it with a blanket to block out light, but keep the front open so that they can see outwards. Make sure to make it snug inside with something like a vet bed or a blanket, or why not take it up a notch with a heat pad or hot water bottle to recreate the feeling of their mother. Nothing feels more comforting than that. Before you head to bed, take your puppy out for one last round of loo-going. Set your bedtime at a later time too — midnight sounds about right. Come back calmly, and place your puppy in the crate and turn out the light. Stuff you should know about Sleep Training your Labrador Your puppy will wake up several times in the night and will need the bathroom at least once! Be prepared for not-so-deep sleeps and tired mornings — just for the first few weeks. Having them sleep next to you is only temporary. Consistency is key! As for you, full nights of sleep will start getting closer and closer. Alone Training How can I teach my Labrador puppy to be ok on their own? Start by feeding your puppy in their crate during meal times. If they seem worried by you leaving, stay in view, and just pop right outside their confinement area. Keep it short and sweet: No need to stay away for long, 60 seconds tops will do for now. Repeat: Do this at least once a day to make progress go steady and smoothly. Socialization Exercises To Do this week Letting your Labrador puppy explore the yard Besides the gnomes and questionable yard furniture you may have, letting your puppy explore your own yard is a great and safe way to start showing them the sounds, lights and wonders of the outside world. Exploring different surfaces exercise Make sure that the surfaces you use are safe — nothing too crazy just yet. Gather surfaces such as An oven tray with a small layer of water A piece of astro turf A carpet tile A large piece of tin foil, cardboard or something crinkly PRO TIP: Set up for this exercise in the room your puppy spends most of their time in — it will help them to feel safe and confident. Pop the surfaces out safely on the floor and allow your puppy to investigate them. Nobody has ever enjoyed walking on those. Remember to be patient! Lucky for you — teaching them their name is easy peasy. Say their name in a happy jolly tone and reward with a treat. Repeat five times, 5 and take a break. Practice this 2 or 3 times a day so they get the hang of it. Teach your puppy to sit Teaching your puppy how to sit is a popular one. The first two are far more common though. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow it up with a food reward. In puppy logic, stinky means yummy. How to do it Start at home; where there are no distractions. Just make sure to shut off Gogglebox in the background. Recall — How to teach our Labrador puppy to come back when called Your puppy already knows their name at this point, so this should be a walk in the park. How to do it Treats and a cheerful voice will be what works here. Do these exercises before meal times so your puppy is more motivated. Practice this 5 times a day and in 3 different places in your house and yard to get them used to coming to you in all settings. How to do it Show your puppy that you have their favorite toy, and start to get them excited about it. When they show interest, throw it a little bit away from you. They will likely follow it and pick it up. If they do, encourage them back to you with your voice, so remember to sound happy! Swap the toy for a treat or another toy and do the process again. Repeat this about 5 times. Instead create more distance and excitement sounds to get them to come to you — spaniels like to show off, so they will likely want to parade what they have! Always swap the toy for something when they have it, this could be a treat or another toy. Resource guarding occurs when we force puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. For breeds like Labradors who are designed to want to hold things in their mouths, this is pretty important! Resource guarding is when a dog protects a resource from being taken by someone else — dog or human. For some reason, there is a solid list of things puppies find irresistible: Socks. These tips will also help you to advance your dog so that, eventually, you can trust them to be off the leash in a safe area. Don't release your dog until they can demonstrate knowledge and obedience on the long leash and in many different settings. To begin with, walk them in the house and in the yard. Dogs learn 'contextually and by repetition'. These hints will help you to become the pack leader. Be certain that this is only reason that your dog will follow you. Make time to walk your dog Whether you walk your dog in the morning or evening will be influenced by your program. Whenever you exercise your dog, the walk should allow for 'focused time' and 'free time'. Two leashes will facilitate this. If they are under 12 months old, take some water with you. Also take a back-pack and a treat belt available on Ebay. I recommend no more than thirty minutes of walking in total for a dog under 14 months old as their growth plates are not set until this time. Be careful of overly vigorous activity, particularly if you have an older but playful dog. I don't recommend running for more than very short bursts for the same reason. Healthy hips and elbows are critical for a healthy, active and long life. Use two leashes - a long leash approx 7m and a short leash approx 1m Start your walk with the labrador pup on a short leash. The short leash will help you to direct and guide the dog. This allows you to maintain full control over your dog. Set up your walk for success. Start by getting the dog to sit or at the least be stationary and under your control. As you begin, keep your dog behind your body alignment. Be patient and encourage your dog. Do not show aggressive frustration. This will only cause confusion and fear or aggression. If your dog is not complying, stop and reset. You are the master Walking in front of your dog demonstrates that you are the master or the pack leader. You should be first out the door. The dogs should exit the compound only at your command. This is essential whether you are walking 1, 2 or more dogs. If your dog controls the pace and direction of the walk, they are the pack leader. Your dog should be beside or behind you during the walk. Dogs learn contextually The next two hints are important training essentials. Firstly, labradors learn contextually and their training in not immediately transferable to a new environment. Using the same disciplines and routines, train your dog the same way in different settings. This will entrench your expectations. Correct immediately Secondly, a labrador has about a five second retention of information. After five seconds the dog has lost any association between your assertiveness and their behaviour. If they disobey you, you must correct them within five seconds or not at all. If the dog is disobedient or simply does not understand, reset and start again. The long leash I'm a big fan of the long leash. A long leash will help you to correct bad behaviour at a distance. After a period of training with the short leash, remove it and connect the longer lead. Keep the leash in your hand, releasing it slowly and progressively. As they master this, you can back away while the dog is 'sitting and staying'. Reward your labrador pup with vigorous affection and a treat. After this, you should allow them to wander and sniff around. All this time you will keep your dog on the long leash and under your control. Be sure that the free time is less than their focus time. During the socialisation phase, 8 - 16 weeks, you will need both leashes as you expose your labrador pup to other dogs. As you walk your dog, you will come across small and large dogs that are aggressive. Walking on either leash will give your complete control. And it will ensure safety at all time. You new labrador pup has no innate road sense. Walk them, getting close to roads. Expose them to vehicles so that they do not panic. Reward your dog for good behaviour. Remember that dogs register tones and frequencies, not words. Use higher tones to affirm, reward and encourage. You approval is the greatest reward for a Labrador. Direct eye contact without high vocal affirmation will be interpreted as aggression. Use lower growling tones to reinforce disapproval. Try to avoid 'No' as a command. It is too general and therefore confusing to the dog. Always reward and reinforce obedience to specific commands. Use food treats to begin with, however you must gradually phase them out. Your vocal affirmation and affection should be your longer term goal. As your dog maintains the proper behaviour, reward them with treats. Reward your dog after the walk I recommend that you reward your labrador pup after the walk. Let them have a drink firstly then give them a portion of food that is less than a meal but more than a treat. It will not take long for your dog to anticipate the whole experience. When you appear with the leashes, they will become very enthusiastic. If you adhere to these eight hints and maintain the discipline of your training, you and your dog will value and enjoy the experience. Finally, remember to pick up after your dog. Don't go on a walk without your poop bags on hand! Find a vet you can have confidence in. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. Just like us, Labradors need plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Whether you have a young or old dog, they all need to get the blood flowing to stay healthy and live long happy doggie lives. Regular exercise with your Labrador is very beneficial for you both. Exercise stimulates neuron growth in the brain, encourages the production of endorphins with a known mood-boosting effect , helps strengthen your bones and muscles, improves blood pressure, and can significantly help with depression. Are you having a hard time figuring out how much exercise your lab needs? Answers vary drastically from one dog to another. The amount of exercise to give your Labrador depends mostly on the age of the dog. The key to taking your Labrador puppy out for exercise is to be patient. Some labs are athletic, and thus need more exercise than others. Also, certain Labradors are genetically programmed to be energetic and have high metabolism rates, whereas others are more laid-back. Here are some exercise guidelines a new lab owner can follow to make sure their dog gets the right workout. With older dogs or children, a lab puppy may well try to keep up with them and exhaust themselves before they reach their adult size and stamina. Hold off on structured games and other forms of heavy physical activity for the first three months. This will set the stage for long-term, healthy exercise habits. This rule states that you should take your Labrador puppy out for at least five minutes of exercise per month of age up to twice a day until he or she is fully grown. This can be anything from a walk around the block to a run in the dog park. How old your dog is will make a difference in their stamina. To determine how much exercise your dog needs, first take their age into consideration. Labs that are four years old and above need between one and two hours of exercise per day. The truth is Labradors can lead a perfectly healthy life with just an hour of daily active playtime. The Labrador Retriever was bred to retrieve game for hunters. That means they naturally love to play fetch. All you need is a toy for playtime and room for running around. Tug-of-War is less cardio-oriented but helps with muscle mass and body structure in growing dogs. Plus, they love it! It requires that you prepare your puppy with a proper agility training course. Agility training is great for completing a total-body, structured workout, while also providing mental stimulation for your labrador. This involves activities such as going through walkways, tunnels, and hurdles to reach the other end. You will need to train your lab to engage in the activity and this involves proper instruction. Find one that fits his size and abilities, as well as your own personal comfort level. Either due to space or having a small yard, it may be difficult to get their puppies out every day. The good news is that, with a little creativity, indoor exercise can be just as viable and fun! Here are a few ideas you can try at home. Try Treadmill Training Sessions With Dogs A dog can be trained to use a treadmill and enjoy it, but the experience will take time. Build an Obstacle Course for Your Labrador Use everyday things found around the home or office to create an obstacle course. It also boosts their energy levels and problem-solving skills. For example, you might use old boxes and trash bags to make a tunnel, chairs or stools to jump across, and other furniture for your puppy to climb. At first your puppy may not catch on, but with effective use of the treat and lots of encouragement, you can help it learn as it goes. Hide-and-Seek With a Treat! Hide a treat around the house, and let your puppy work to find it. As you hide treats around the room, remember to make sure they are not hiding somewhere that is unreachable. Tip 2. Make sure that all the activities are not just what you enjoy but what is enjoyable for the puppy. Otherwise, they may get frustrated and stop cooperating with you. Include treats and praise whenever they accomplish something. All dog breeds respond positively to lots of physical affection and verbal affirmation. This will make the activity more enjoyable for the puppy. Keep fun as the central theme and good health will flow. Tip 3. Make an Exercise Routine and Schedule for Your Dog Lab owners, take note: maintaining the health of an adult Lab is all about consistency. And this starts with walks at a young age. Take regular walks with your dog, no matter the weather conditions. Walk at the same time each day in order to create an exercise pattern that both you and your dog can stick to. Maybe you can get the puppy used to a leash and casually walk through your neighborhood with it. That way, you can vary the activity occasionally. In six months, increase the amount of time your dogs are running to 15 minutes. This keeps their energy high and stops weight gain as they mature. Conclusion As a dog owner, your foremost responsibility is protecting the health and safety of your pet. Insufficient exercise causes health problems in dogs , like hip dysplasia especially those already prone to hip or joint problems. Share on. Tweet on Twitter Puppy exercise requirements vary between different types of dog, and as a puppy grows the exercise they need will increase. It is possible to give a puppy too much exercise so I will give you a puppy exercise chart, as a guide to how far a puppy can walk at different ages. Taking your new puppy for a walk We all look forward to the day we can take our new puppy for a walk. For many people, daily dog walks is a huge part of why they bought a Labrador in the first place. Others already take quite small puppies for quite long walks and are surprised to discover that many experts believe this to be a bad thing. So just how much exercise does a puppy really need? How much exercise does a puppy need? This rule of thumb says that a puppy should have no more than five minutes of walking for every month of his age. So that would be fifteen minutes a day maximum for a three month old puppy, twenty minutes for a four month old and so on. This concern about excessive exercise has arisen because it is widely believed that exercise is a factor in the development of serious joint disorders. Especially in larger breed puppies such as Labradors Breeders are particularly concerned about hip dysplasia, a serious and complex disorder of the hip joints, that is believed to be influenced both by inherited factors passed from dogs to their puppies and by environmental factors In addition to factors influencing growth rates, the stresses and strains placed on the vulnerable growing joint by excessive exercise are believed to be a contributory environmental factor in the development of inadequate hip joints. It seems likely, that a puppy that had inherited a tendency for poor hips, could have its soft and still forming hip joints made a good deal worse through prolonged or hard exercise. It is also possible that a puppy that has inherited excellent hips, will come to no harm whatsoever through hard exercise. On the contrary, a certain amount of free running exercise is a good thing Running off-leash A Norwegian study published and which included labradors, showed that puppies given the opportunity to exercise off leash in a park before the age of three months were less likely to develop hip dysplasia HD , not more. Stair climbing The same study showed that puppies that had to climb stairs on a regular basis during the same period were at increased risk of HD You can read about this study in Science Daily. So what does this study tell us? Well, it is only one study, but it suggests that playing in a natural way, with other pups or simply running about at their own speed is probably going to benefit a small puppy Strenuous exercise Whereas more strenuous activity such as climbing hills and stairs, may not be such a good thing at a very young age. Another study has suggested that running hard for a retrieve, may not be great for joint health either. And some breeders also prevent dogs from jumping for the first twelve months to reduce impact on the shoulder and elbow joints. This may be especially important for some of the heavier breeds of dog, and those that are slow to mature. How far should my puppy walk? But how does that translate to distances walked? If you like to think in distances rather than time, a mile is around steps for an adult human and takes about twenty minutes at a moderate walking speed. So a maximum walk for a four month old Labrador might be about a mile. And of course if you are walking out and back again, that means not taking the dog more than half a mile from your home or car, whichever is your starting point. With young puppies, you need to keep a balance. Think about the overall energy your puppy is expending rather than focusing on walking alone. Walking is only one form of exercise and is no more valuable or important than games or training exercises. If you have been to visit a friend with your five month old pup and their dog has played for half an hour in the garden with yours, your dog does not need a walk as well. It is the total exercise that counts. How much exercise is too much? And you are bound to know of someone whose puppy had far more exercise than this and came to no harm. However taking a puppy for long walks or asking him to negotiate very steep or uneven surfaces when he is little, is probably a bad idea. Beware of letting a puppy play for too long with an older dog that does not want to stop. And keep an eye on children who may inadvertently exhaust a puppy by encouraging him to play when he needs to sleep. Crating your puppy when he is tired or overexcited, will enable you to make sure that your puppy gets some well deserved down time. Summary Young puppies need the time and space to run about freely, and free running exercise is beneficial. You do not need to attempt to prevent puppies playing in the garden, trotting about the house or playing with another young puppy for a while. Provided that the puppy is free to stop and rest whenever he wants. As far as we know at the moment, formal exercise — walking on a lead — for example, is probably best restricted using the five minute rule as an approximate guide. And strenuous exercise such as stair climbing, and chasing balls should be limited or avoided altogether in puppies under three months of age. Remember, an adult dog can become an amazing athlete, but like all athletes, fitness and stamina are best built up in gentle stages if injury is to be avoided. Do talk to your vet about exercise at your first appointment with your puppy. We are still learning about hip dysplasia. Research is ongoing, knowledge increases all the time. Your vet should be up to date with the latest information regarding the optimum amount of exercise for your new puppy. Published in April , the Happy Puppy Handbook covers every aspect of life with a small puppy. It will help you prepare your home for the new arrival, and get your puppy off to a great start with potty training, socialization and early obedience. This article was originally published in and has been extensively revised and updated for References Slater et al. Diet and exercise as potential risk factors for osteochondritis dissecans in dogs. Am J Vet Res. Sallander et al. American Society for Nutrition. Krontveit et al. Risk factors for hip-related clinical signs in a prospective cohort study of four large dog breeds in Norway.
I'll try and be brief with my story which leads to my passion for labradoodles, I was first introduced to the Labradoodle breed during my son's lengthy hospital stay in Palo Alto, California. It was LOVE at first sight!!! My 34 year old son Tim passed away Sept 17, , from complications of a double lung transplant due to his diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis in January, .Needless to say it was a nightmare. Tim has two children ages 17 and 12 that now spend countless hours with my husband, myself and our doodles! During the long periods of Tim's hospital stays, we were fortunate enough to meet a beautiful labradoodle. Generally dogs are not allowed on the hospital transplant floors, but because we are such dog lovers as well as the severity of Tim's illness we were allowed canine visits. The minute I saw him, I was hooked head over heels in love with the breed. After Tim's passing I experienced a loneliness like never before. However, in the back of my head I could almost hear the calling to learn more about this breed. Thus my research began, I researched the breed and found the answer for my instant connection to these beautiful animals, they are truly delightful, loving, intuitive little clowns who can steal your heart in a moments glance! Our hearts will never be the same. If I am able to help others so they too may experience the love and joy of owning such a wonderful companion then I will have accomplished my mission. My commitment to keeping this breed as pure and healthy as possible is my top priority along with providing the dogs with lots of love and compassion and only selecting the same when considering placement. I recently retired from working 27 years for the state, to stay home and take care of my son, I always knew I'd find something to do. I never dreamed my desire to become a Labradoodle mom is what would find me. At Delta Breeze Labradoodles we want to help you in finding the perfect new puppy for your family! We also want to ensure that each puppy is welcomed into a caring and loving home. Life's too short not to share it with a labradoodle! At Delta Breeze Labradoodles, we have quality puppies that you will love. When both parents are Labradoodles in whatever Poodle-Labrador percentages, the result is multigenerational offspring. Labradoodle Max before haircut. F2 Labradoodle This is a second-generation hybrid that can be created by crossing two F1 Labradoodles or two F1b see below dogs. F2 Labradoodles are considered multigenerational Labradoodles as long as both parent breeds are hybrids. F3 are crosses of two F2s, and so on. The backcrossing is often done to have the resulting hybrids inherit more traits of the purebred parent. Are Multigenerational Labradoodles Better? Multigenerational Labradoodles simply refer to hybrids where both parents are Labradoodles. These dogs have the same genetic predispositions as their parent Labradoodle mixes and are as healthy as previous generations. However, someone with allergies might choose a multigenerational Labradoodle with more Poodle in their ancestry to have a greater chance of a hypoallergenic dog. What Is A Hypoallergenic Dog? A hypoallergenic dog is a dog that is less likely to cause an allergic reaction in people who are allergic to dogs. Many people who are allergic to dogs are actually allergic to the dander, which is the dead skin cells that the dog sheds. A child hugs Labradoodle at the beach! Hypoallergenic dogs produce less dander than other dogs, so they are less likely to trigger an allergic reaction. There are several different breeds of hypoallergenic dogs, including Poodles, Bichon Frises, and Maltese dogs. Hypoallergenic dog breeds typically do not shed as much as other breeds, so they are a good choice for people with allergies. However, it is important to note that no dog is completely hypoallergenic, so these dogs may still cause an allergic reaction in the most sensitive people. Are Multigenerational Labradoodles Hypoallergenic? Many Labradoodles are backcrossed into the Poodle bloodline to increase the chances of a hypoallergenic coat. Breeders are meticulous in selecting their breeding pairs to accomplish just that. A happy woman holding her lovely golden Labradoodle in her arms. Even though it is low-shedding, it will still require frequent brushing to keep mats and tangles away as well as remove whatever small amounts of dead fur and dander there are. A small brush will be easier to use on a small dog, while a larger brush will be better suited for a large dog. Are Multigenerational Labradoodles Healthy? Multigenerational Labradoodles are not more or less healthy than their F1 counterparts bred from two purebred parents. They are susceptible to many health conditions that Poodles and Labradors are genetically predisposed to. Joint Problems Joint conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia are common problems in Labradoodles. This condition occurs when the hip joint does not fit properly into the socket, causing pain and mobility problems. While hip dysplasia can be treated with surgery, it is often painful and expensive. Labradoodle sitting in the studio. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the signs of hip dysplasia and to have your dog checked by a veterinarian if you suspect that he or she may be affected. Eye Problems Progressive retinal atrophy PRA is a condition that affects the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. PRA is an incurable, degenerative disease that leads to blindness. Labradoodle lying on a bed with a toy. Labradoodles are increasingly popular as pets, but many prospective owners are unaware of the risks associated with the breed. One of those risks is progressive retinal atrophy. PRA is a debilitating condition that causes blindness, and it affects Labradoodles more than other breeds of dogs. While there is no cure for PRA, early detection is crucial to slowing down the progression of the disease. With regular eye exams and prompt treatment, dogs with PRA can enjoy a good quality of life for many years. However, without early intervention, PRA will eventually lead to complete blindness. When considering a Labradoodle as a pet, be sure to ask your breeder about the steps they take to avoid PRA in their puppies. The disease is caused by a deficiency of the Von Willebrand factor, a protein that helps the blood clot. A recently shaven Labradoodle rests on the floor in a holiday home. This can cause bleeding from the nose, gums, or intestines, and even heavy menstrual bleeding in female dogs. There are several medication options available that can help to control the symptoms and allow your dog to live a long and happy life. Thyroid Problems Labradoodles may be more prone to developing thyroid problems than other dog breeds. The thyroid is a small gland located in the neck that produces hormones that regulate metabolism. Labradoodles may be more likely to develop thyroid problems because of their genetic makeup. They are a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Standard Poodle, and both of these breeds are at higher risk for thyroid disorders. Obesity Like almost all dogs, Labradoodles love food, and it can be all too easy to overindulge them. When left unchecked, obesity can lead to a host of health problems, including joint pain, respiratory difficulties, and diabetes. The good news is that obesity is entirely preventable. A large size Labradoodle facing the camera for a photo. So how can you prevent your dog from becoming obese? The key is to feed them a balanced diet and make sure they get plenty of exercise. High-quality pet food will provide all the nutrients your dog needs without any excess calories. And when it comes to exercise, try to mix things up to keep them entertained. Take them for a run around the block, play fetch in the park, or sign up for an agility class. With a little bit of planning and discipline, you can keep your Labradoodle healthy and fit. Just ensure that they get plenty of exercise and be careful not to overfeed them. Final Thoughts With their floppy ears and heart-melting eyes, Labradoodles are one of the most popular designer dog breeds, and unfortunately, with its explosive popularity also come in-breeding and unethical breeders. Regardless of generation, be sure that you are getting your Labradoodle from a reliable, reputable source. Whenever possible, ask to see DNA test results and OFA certificates to ensure that the litter is cleared of all genetic diseases. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Not all doodles are created equally and it's important to know the differences in types of Labradoodles: Types of Labradoodles F1 -1st generation cross between the Labrador and the Standard Poodle. F1 are most likley to shed because half of it's genes come from a Lab. F1b- is a backcross 1st generation Labradoodle. Since the F1 dogs do shed and can have a wiry type coat, the poodle is bred back to the F1 Labradoodle to correct the coat type. F2- is a 2nd generation Labradoodle. F1 x F1 just bred one more generation. These puppies also shed just like the F1. The F2 generation is the most varied generation and pups will have a variety of looks and coat types. Multigenerational Labradoodles or Multi-gen - When a Labradoodle is 3 or more generations into the breed they are considered Multigeneration Labradoodles. Almost all are non-shedding and are great for families with allergies. As the breed continued to develop other breeders in Australia such as Tegan Park and Rutland Manor began to infuse breeds into the Australian Labradoodle to improve upon consistency in health, temperament, structure and coat type. These infusions proved successful and also created uniformity to create a breed standard. This distinctive look is unique to the multi-gen Australian Labradoodle. Luxe Breeds Multi-gen Austrailian Labradoodles Luxe Labradoodle breeds mulitgen Australian Labradoodles because we believe in this distinctive line of labradoodles! Multi-gen Australian Labradoodles have been selectively bred to produce highly trainable, healthy dogs with allergy friendly coats and consistency in temperaments and conformation. These intelligent and affectionate dogs are a result of carefully planned breeding programs, focusing on multiple generations of Labradoodles. To help you understand why Mountain Creek Labradoodles decided to focus on the Australian line of Labradoodles, we will explore the advantages that MultiGen Miniature Australian Labradoodles offer to families, making them an excellent choice for households seeking a loyal and loving companion. These dogs are bred from generations of Labradoodles, resulting in a more consistent coat type. This is a HUGE benefit! Predictability allows families to choose a dog with a coat texture and length that best suits their preferences and requirements. Additionally, MultiGen Miniature Australian Labradoodles are known for their hypoallergenic qualities, making them a suitable choice for families with allergy sufferers. Our family has benefit from this for over 20 years now! Health and Genetic Advantages of Mini MultiGen Australian Labradoodles MultiGen Miniature Australian Labradoodles benefit from generations of careful breeding, which often involves extensive health testing of parent dogs. By selecting dogs with sound health and temperament, breeders work towards minimizing the risk of hereditary diseases commonly found in certain breeds. MultiGens also have a higher chance of being genetically diverse, reducing the likelihood of inherited health issues. This focus on breeding healthy and genetically robust dogs provides families with peace of mind, knowing that they are welcoming a healthy and long-lived companion into their home. Consistent Temperament and Trainability MultiGen Miniature Australian Labradoodles exhibit a consistent temperament due to their multiple generations of Labradoodle lineage. These dogs are known for their friendly, social, and intelligent nature, making them wonderful family companions. With each generation, breeders carefully select parent dogs with the desired traits, resulting in puppies that are well-suited for families. MultiGens are generally easy to train, eager to please, and quick learners. This characteristic makes them ideal for families with children, as they can be easily integrated into household routines and participate in training activities alongside their young owners. Versatile and Adaptable Companions MultiGen Miniature Australian Labradoodles possess a versatile and adaptable nature, making them excellent companions for families with diverse lifestyles. Whether you live in an apartment or a house with a yard, these dogs can adapt to various living environments. They are equally comfortable joining in on outdoor activities or lounging indoors with the family. MultiGens have a moderate energy level that allows them to engage in playtime with children and be calm and relaxed when needed. Their adaptable nature ensures that they can easily fit into the unique dynamics of any family. MultiGen Miniature Australian Labradoodles offer numerous advantages to families seeking a loving and loyal companion. With predictable coats, hypoallergenic qualities, and a focus on health and genetic diversity, these dogs are a reliable choice for households with specific preferences or allergy concerns. Their consistent temperament and trainability make them ideal for families with children, while their versatile and adaptable nature ensures they can thrive in various living environments. If you're looking for a delightful and well-rounded family pet, MultiGen Miniature Australian Labradoodles are a breed worth considering. They will undoubtedly bring joy, love, and endless companionship to your family for years to come. Ready To Get Started??? Already sold on the BEST breed of dog known to mankind?!?! Then click on the link below and fill out our Puppy Inquiry Form to get started! Look no further! Our free litter notification email is the perfect way to stay up-to-date on our latest and greatest litters of adorable labradoodle puppies! Follow Along on Social Media! Popular Links. Our favorite tips for grooming your Labradoodle can be found here. Advantages of Multi-Generational Labradoodles Labradoodle breeders usually choose multi-generational breeding as a way to not just improve on the breed but also for the consistency in their litters. The puppies coming from these parents are generally sociable, gentle, non-aggressive, intuitive and highly intelligent. They have the qualities needed to make excellent service or therapy dogs. See this article to find out why. One of the main advantages of multi-generational Labradors is that the breeders have had years of breeding these dogs through several generations, so their results are not coincidental or random. How easy are they to train exactly? We answer that here. The coat quality and style may not seem important to one individual but can make a huge difference to an individual suffering from allergies. Parents have often commented on how each of their children is different, and they often wish they could take the best qualities of each child and combine them for the perfect child. The way in which you raise and train your pup can influence their personalities a great deal. Grab your copy today to be on your way to transforming your puppy into your dream dog. Are Multi-Generational Labradoodles more expensive? When it comes to the price for these dogs, you really do get what you pay for. See actual price examples here. There are many wonderful Poodles, Labrador Retrievers, and Labradoodles around, and many of them are probably very affordable. Do Multi-Generational Labradoodles have longer lifespans? Labradoodles do have some health issues but are generally healthy dogs overall with lifespans of 12 to 15 years. Although they are the result of generations of careful breeding, there are still some health issues that both Poodles and Labs are prone to developing. We Hope You Enjoyed! Find more detailed information, answers to specific problems, and fun facts in our many other Labradoodle articles. Related Posts:. A multigen Labradoodle is usually at least three generations removed from their closest purebred Labrador or Poodle ancestor. When breeders talk about multigen Labradoodles, they might also use confusing terms like 1st generation Labradoodle, and F2b Labradoodle. But once you understand the simple rules of labelling doodle generations, they are a useful source of information! What Is A Multigenerational Labradoodle? Breeders usually use the term multigenerational Labradoodle or multigen Labradoodle to describe an F3 Labradoodle or beyond. Or in other words, a puppy whose closest purebred ancestor is a great grandparent or further. An F1 Labradoodle puppy can also also be described as a 1st generation Labradoodle. F2 Labradoodles have two F1 Labradoodle parents. Their closest purebred ancestors are their grandparents, and they are two generations removed from them. Therefore, an F2 Labradoodle is also sometimes called a 2nd generation Labradoodle. F1b Labradoodles have one F1 Labradoodle parent, and the other parent is either a pedigree Labrador or pedigree Poodle. More usually it is a Poodle, to increase the odds of each F1b puppy having a non-shedding coat. Back crossing can be performed on later generations too. An F3 Labradoodle is three generations removed from their closest purebred ancestor. Or in other words, their closest pedigree Labrador or Poodle relative is a great-grandparent. Which is why most breeders switch to describing litters as multigenerational instead! Well, the reason is all to do with fixing desirable genetic traits in the next litter. And for many breeders, an important example of this is coat type. Does a multigen Labrdoodle shed? Labradors have heavy shedding coats, whilst Poodle coats shed very little. F1 Labradoodles can inherit either coat type, but creating multigen litters from proven non-shedding Labradoodle lines increases the odds of puppies with non-shedding coats. Multigen Labradoodle temperament Multigen Labradoodles can also be more reliable in other respects. But using the friendliest F1 Labradoodles to create an F2 generation, and using the friendliest individuals from that generation to create an F3 generation, increases the odds of multigen Labradoodles also being exceptionally friendly. What About Multigenerational Mini Labradoodles? The first Labradoodles were a Labrador and Standard Poodle mix. They varied in size from 40 to 80 pounds. Since then, interest in Labradoodles with a Miniature Poodle parent has also increased. Miniature Poodles weigh just 10 to 15 pounds, which means the potential range of adult sizes in a litter of F1 Mini Labradoodle puppies is wide. Creating a litter of F1b Mini Labradoodle puppies with one Mini Labradoodle parent and one Mini Poodle parent increases the likelihood of small, non-shedding puppies. And producing multigenerational Mini Labradoodles after that will further decrease the likelihood of puppies over a certain size in each litter. Labradors and Poodles are both prone to some genetic health problems, and in particular hereditary orthopedic diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia. All Labradors and Poodles used for breeding should first be tested and cleared for: hip dysplasia eye disease and the faulty gene that causes exercise induced collapse. So, always ask your breeder for proof of the results of these tests. What is it about each of them that they were so keen to capture in another generation? These questions are particularly important for multigen Labradoodles because in a sense, there is no right or wrong answer. Whilst another person might be seeking an energetic dog they can go running with or train as a gundog. The breeder is likely to have picked parents who match their idea of the best Labradoodle temperament. You need to find out if your idea of perfection is the same! Types of Labradoodles There are lots of ways of categorizing Labradoodles, but a really interesting one that is relevant here is designer Labradoodles vs Australian Labradoodles. Multigen Labradoodles also fall into this category, albeit somewhere on the fringes of it. Australian Labradoodles, on the other hand, are more than just an Australian Labrador Poodle cross. Australian Labradoodle is the breed name adopted by Labradoodle enthusiasts who are trying to get the Labradoodle recognized as a new pedigree dog in its own right. To achieve this, they need to breed true. That is, each new generation of puppies should come from the previous generation of Australian Labradoodles, with no more outcrossing to purebred Labradors and Poodles. And all the puppies should match the same physical profile and behave in a reliably similar way. Multigenerational Labradoodle Summary Multigen Labradoodles are at least three generations apart from their closest pedigree Lab or Poodle relative. Breeding multigen Labradoodles is an opportunity to create litters with less variable qualities than F1 Labradoodles. Do you already have a multigen Labradoodle? Please use the comments box to introduce us! Z Temperament Extremely clever, sociable, comical and joyful. Energetic when free and and quiet when handled. Should approach people in a happy, friendly manner. Keen and easy to train. Z Size Between 14 and 24 inches 35 to 63 centimeters in height at wither, but not more than 25 inches. Weighs between 15 and 65 pounds 7 to 30 kilograms. Inter-size breeding is acceptable and expected at the moment. Miniature range: Between 14 and 16 inches 35 to 42 centimeters in height at wither, but not more than 17 inches. Medium range: Between 17 and 20 inches 43 to 52 centimeters in height at wither, but not more than .Ideal size for a female is 17 to19 inches; for a male, 18 to 20 inches. Standard range: Between 21 and 24 inches 53 to 63 centimeters in height at wither, but not more than 25 inches Z Movement Trotting gait is effortless, smooth, powerful and coordinated in mature dogs. Should have a good reach in front and drive from behind for forward motion. Silent movement and light gait are essential. Z Coat Low-to-Non-shedding and easily maintained. Any length is acceptable, but coat generally should not exceed 4 inches. Should be even over the entire body. Can appear wavy or straight or form spirals, but should not be too thick or dense, nor should it be fluffy or fuzzy. Should be a single coat; any sign of an undercoat is a serious fault. Ranges between fleece and wool in texture. Extremely harsh hair is highly undesirable. Fleece-textured coat is soft in texture, as in the Angora goat. Can have either a straight, wavy look or a soft, spiraling, curly look. Should have the appearance of looser, spiraling wool, which parts easily to the skin. Should not appear too dense or too tightly curled. .Coat should not appear overly groomed. Any appearance of sun bleaching is acceptable. Z Head Moderately broad with well-defined eyebrows. Stop should be moderate, with eyes set well-apart. Head should be of moderate width, developed but without exaggeration. Foreface should appear shorter than skull. Head should be clean-cut and free from fleshy cheeks. The whole head proportionate in size to the rest of the dog. Z Large, expressive and slightly rounded. Z Ears Should be set slightly above eye level and lay flat against head in proportion with the skull. Leather should be of medium thickness and should not hang below the lower lip line. Excessive hair in the ear canal is undesirable. Z Must be a scissor bite. Upper teeth to just overlap the bottom teeth. Z Should be large, of square appearance and fleshy. Z Neck Well-proportioned, of good strength and moderately long, lending an air of elegance. Slightly arched and flows into shoulders with no appearance of abruptness. Z Forequarters Shoulders blades and upper arms should be the same length. Shoulders should be laid well back, and elbows should be set close to the body. Forelegs should be straight when viewed from the front. Out-toeing is a fault. Z Body Frame bounded by height [to wither] and length [from sternum to point of buttocks] should appear square and compact, with a deep chest and well-sprung ribs. There should be a good tuck up, and the loins should be strong and muscular. Z Hindquarters In profile, the croup is nearly flat, though slight sloping is acceptable. Stifles should be moderately turned to propel forward movement, and hindquarters should be well-muscled for power in movement. Hock to heel should be strong, short and perpendicular to the ground. Should appear parallel to the rear. Must not be cow-hocked. Z Feet Round and of medium size, with well-arched toes and thick, elastic pads. Should not turn in or out. Z Tail Should follow topline in repose or when in motion. May be carried gaily, but should not curl completely over the back. Tip should not touch the back nor curl upon itself. Ready to Get Started? Please note that our adoption process takes time. Not every family that applies will be approved. You can read all the details about the adoption process here. We provide family pets for families all over the south eastern United States and beyond. Our Australian Labradoodle dogs are raised in our home in a warm, loving, family environment. We have Australian Labradoodle Puppies for families or to act as service dogs. Australian Labradoodles make wonderful therapy dogs!
Jul 18, Share Poodles are renowned for their hair. While the continental haircut may be the most popular, there are tons of other options out there. Some haircuts are more practical, while others are high-maintenance and adorable. Which haircut you choose for your dog depends on your goals and lifestyle. Show poodles need the continental cut, for instance. However, if you have a companion dog, you can choose whatever cut you want! Below, we listed some of the most popular poodle haircuts for this year. This list should give you plenty of Poodle cut styles to choose from! The Top 11 Poodle Haircuts 1. It is so popular and time-honed that it is still prevalent this year. It is one of the two acceptable haircuts for show dogs, according to the American Kennel Club. This cut involves shaving everywhere except their face, ears, shoulders, paws, and tail. This was the traditional cut Poodles were given when retrieving waterfowl, as it left enough hair for them to stay warm without getting in the way of their mobility. The one downside of this cut is that it needs to be done by a professional. It takes a lot of work. It is more difficult to see the body of the dog with all the extra care. However, you may not care much if you have a companion dog. This cut leaves plenty of hair behind to keep the dog warm but shaves it down enough to give the dog plenty of mobility as well. This is an increasingly common cut for dog owners, as it is a happy middle-ground. Generally, the coat is clipped to the same length across the whole body. Most companion poodles have this cut. Instead, this cut is supposed to make full-grown poodles look like puppies. Thus, it is one of the more popular toy poodle haircuts, as they are already small enough to be puppies. With that said, this is also a style that is acceptable for actual puppies. According to the AKC, this is a good style for dogs under a year old. You will need a pompom on the tail for showing purposes, though. However, for companion dogs, this is not necessary. Some brave owners may be able to keep this cut maintained at home. This is an easy cut to maintain at home and is a standard cut used for show dogs. However, this is an extremely suitable cut for companion dogs as well. We recommend this cut for colder climates, as the fur is a bit longer overall than in other cuts. It is almost the winter version of the kennel cut. There are no harsh lines. However, for owners who care more about practicality than the show, it is a good option. This cut is seen on a variety of other dogs as well as it is simple and low maintenance. Bikini Cut A post shared by Bo the Rescue Poodle standardpoodlebo The bikini cut is a middle ground between fancy and straightforward. It has a little bit of style but is still very low maintenance. Most of the body is kept very short, while certain areas are allowed to grow out like the ears, paws, and tail. This is one of the shortest cuts out there, so it is suitable for warmer climates. Scandinavian Clip A post shared by Kimberly Snoddy kimberlysnoddy This cut is incredibly grand and overdone. It is an extreme continental cut. For this reason, it is scarce. It is most suitable for icy areas, like Scandinavia, hence the name. This cut is most identifiable by the fluffiness everywhere! Town and Country Cut A post shared by Finnegan And Riker Schiller finnstaoninsta As far as modern cuts go, this is one of the most popular options out there. The one distinguishing feature is that the legs are cut to resemble cylinders. The ears and head are also very rounded with minimal poofs. This cut involves letting that process happen. This cut used to be very popular. However, it had fallen out of style for decades. Nowadays, the cut is beginning to come back in style. This should be done with care and precision, as natural mats can be quite uncomfortable. This is a style you can achieve at home, though. It is also effortless to care for once you get things going. It is not quite as impressive as some of the other cuts on this list. However, it is very low-maintenance , which is precisely why many owners choose it. It is notable and low-maintenance, making it the best of both worlds for most companion dogs. Conclusion If you are the lucky owner of a poodle—no matter what size—you have plenty of adorable haircuts to choose from. Also See:. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. In this post, we will discuss 12 low-maintenance poodle cuts that are perfect for busy pet owners. This style keeps the hair short all over the body, including the face, legs, and tail. This cut is perfect for summertime since it helps keep your pup cool and comfortable in the heat. This gives your dog a cute, teddy bear-like appearance. The Teddy Bear Cut is a low maintenance option for those who want their poodle to look like a stuffed animal! The Lion Cut Image Credit: TatyanaPanova, Shutterstock The Lion Cut is perfect for pet owners who want a low maintenance poodle cut but still want their dog to have a bit of personality. This style leaves the hair long on the top of the head, giving your dog a mane-like appearance. The hair on the rest of the body is kept short. The Lion Cut is a good choice for those who want their poodle to stand out from the crowd. This cut keeps the hair short all over the body, including the face, legs, and tail. It looks like the Puppy Cut, but the hair on the head is left a bit longer. This style keeps. This style keeps the hair short on the body but leaves the hair longer on the face, legs, and tail. The Continental Cut is a good choice for those who want their poodle to look like a show dog. You do have to maintain this cut if you want it to retain its shape, which requires brushing and trims. The Miami Vice Cut is a good choice for those who want their poodle to look like a celebrity dog. It looks like the dog has been trimmed by a professional groomer. To do this cut, focus on keeping the hair short and even all over the body. The Dutch Cut is a good choice for those who want their poodle to look even and close-cut all over. A longer cut can allow for more curls but will require more brushing. The Corded Coat Cut is a good choice for those who want their poodle to stand out from the crowd. The Lamb Clip is a good choice for those who want their poodle to look like a stuffed animal. The Shih Tzu Cut is a good choice for those who want their poodle to stand out from the crowd. The Jacket and Pants Cut got its name because it looks like the dog is wearing a jacket and pants. This cut is a good choice for those who want their poodle to look like a well-dressed but comfortable dog. No, some poodle cuts can be done at home with the right tools and products. How often should I get my poodle cut? It depends on the style you choose. Some poodle cuts require more frequent grooming than others. Consult with your groomer to find out how often you should schedule a visit. What are the benefits of getting a poodle cut? Poodle cuts can help reduce shedding , matting, and tangles. They can also make your dog look and feel more comfortable. Are there any disadvantages to getting a poodle cut? The main disadvantage of getting a poodle cut is the cost. Additionally, some poodle cuts require frequent grooming, which Conclusion Poodle cuts can be a great way to reduce shedding, matting, and tangles. However, they can be expensive, and some styles require frequent grooming. Before you decide on a cut, consult with your groomer to find out what will work best for your dog. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts' knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.Read more Advertisement.
labradoodle puppyll - One night he became quite agitated, and I attributed it to a bitch in season. By the next morning, his condition was too far gone to save him. Emergency surgery saved her life. I had a gastropexy done right then to ensure she would not have a repeat GDV episode. Frannie lived a healthy life, recently dying at age .The third most popular breed in the country based on registrations with the American Kennel Club, the German Shepherd Dog may be the No. Traditionally, it has been thought that GDV occurs when the stomach fills like a balloon with gas, a process known as gastric dilatation. As bloat progresses, the gas-filled stomach twists degrees clockwise on its side, cutting off an escape for the gas through the esophagus or duodenum. This is gastric dilatation-volvulus. A profound distension of the stomach compresses vital blood vessels and organs in the abdomen and reduces oxygen to those organs causing a life-threatening condition as tissue death and toxins are released into the bloodstream. As the gastric pressure increases, critical blood supplies to both the stomach and the whole circulation are cut off sending a dog into shock. Rozanski says. Deep-chested large and giant breeds are vulnerable to bloat. As the gas builds in the stomach, a dog becomes increasingly uncomfortable. Owners may notice their dog pacing, panting, retching unsuccessfully, or standing stiffly with a hunched back. Clinical signs include a distended abdomen, pale gums, and a weak, rapid pulse. Emergency surgery to untwist the stomach and check for dead tissue provides the best outcome for dogs with GDV. Prior to surgery a veterinarian must stabilize a dog by relieving the pressure from the gas in the stomach and treating a dog for shock with intravenous fluids. As with Frannie, gastropexy is always performed during emergency surgery to prevent GDV from recurring. Gastropexy involves tacking the stomach to the right side of the abdominal wall to prevent future shifting or twisting of the stomach. A minimally invasive procedure, gastropexy is recommended to be done prophylactically at a young age, particularly in dogs having a parent, littermate or half-sibling that has bloated. At many clinics, a veterinarian performs a gastropexy laparoscopically using two to three incisions and cameras to help guide the procedure. When dogs die before GDV surgery can be performed, it is primarily due to shock and cardiovascular instability. Rozanski and Claire R. Their review, published in in Topics in Companion Animal Medicine , signaled decreased oxygen to tissues caused by cardiovascular dysfunction as setting in motion a systemic state known as multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. Dysfunction can affect the cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, coagulation, and renal systems. Additionally, Dr. Awareness of the potential for multiple organ dysfunction syndrome and aggressive supportive care are essential to maximize the chances for a successful outcome for dogs with GDV. While prophylactic gastropexy may decrease the prevalence of GDV in susceptible breeds, it does not eliminate the risk for mesenteric volvulus. Mesenteric volvulus occurs when the small intestine twists around the mesentery root that provides nutrients to the intestines. Although rare, mesenteric volvulus is almost always fatal. A study published in found an inverse relationship between decreased GDV cases due to prophylactic gastropexy surgery and increased incidence of mesenteric volvulus. The retrospective study looked at 54 mesenteric volvulus cases and controls to determine potential risk factors for the disorder in military working dogs treated at the Holland Military Working Dog Hospital at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio. Predisposing risk factors included breed type, specifically German Shepherd Dog, increasing age, and history of gastrointestinal disease, gastropexy or other abdominal surgeries. Because GDV had been a longstanding cause of death or reason for euthanasia of military working dogs, in the U. Comparatively, there were cases of GDV from to before the policy went into effect, 95 cases from to , and 11 cases from to .During the same timeframe, six incidents of mesenteric volvulus were reported from to , 12 cases from to , and 48 cases from to .The link between gastropexy and mesenteric volvulus is unclear, the authors stressed. Thus, the benefit of gastropexy in preventing GDV likely outweighs the risk of the rare condition mesenteric volvulus, they said. It is considered a complex, multifactorial disorder with genetic and environmental influences. German Shepherd Dog enthusiasts suspect that bloat may occur more frequently in some bloodlines. An article of their findings about genetic susceptibility factors in large and giants breeds, which have a lifetime risk for bloat of 3. The genome-wide association study GWAS of dogs from 10 breeds included dogs that had experienced at least one GDV episode and healthy control dogs. Single nucleotide polymorphism SNP array genotyping followed by imputation of common genetic variation was performed on samples to identify GDV-associated SNPs and copy number variations. The 10 breeds represented were: Borzoi .Lead investigator Dr. We identified a potentially protective intergenic SNP, minor allele G, that appears across all breeds and that is particularly important in Collies, German Shorthaired Pointers and Great Danes. Sharp and Dr. Rozanski along with colleagues looked at the hospital records of dogs that bloated from September to April to understand why dogs die prior to surgery in an effort to account for preoperative nonsurvival. We found that financial reasons were a major risk factor in nonsurvival. Of the nonsurviving dogs, were euthanized and 30 died. Of those euthanized, were euthanized prior to surgery without the intent to treat. Given the rate of GDV nonsurvival due to nontreatment, efforts at disease prevention may be the best way to improve disease mortality. She had very tight ligamenture and abdominal muscles. She was happy, well-adjusted, and not a nervous or anxious dog. I look for lines with longevity and those free of GDV for one or two generations. Maybe all German Shepherd Dogs are somewhat genetically at risk. The German Shepherd has played many roles over the years including, among others: herding sheep, military field work, search and rescue, guide dog and police dog. This is a life threatening condition where the stomach rotates on its axis, cutting off the passage of food and water, and inhibiting circulation to the stomach and intestines. Bloat generally occurs in large, deep-chested dogs such as Great Danes, German Shepherds, Standard Poodles, Weimaraners, Saint Bernards, and Newfoundlands but has been seen in small dogs on rare occasions. Patients typically present with non-productive retching, restlessness and abdominal discomfort. The first signs of bloat may include a distended stomach, retching, or dry heaving. If these symptoms are seen, immediate medical attention must be sought! The cause of the GDV is unknown, it is thought to have multiple contributing factors. That is the million-dollar question. No one knows the exact cause of why bloat happens; however large breed, deep chested dogs are more likely to bloat than other breeds. In some cases, eating or drinking large amounts and then being active is thought to cause bloat. There is also thought that eating out of elevated food dishes may increase chances of GDV as dogs may swallow more air when eating. Factors Suspected to Increase the Risk of Bloat Feeding one meal per day Breed of dog Feeding a dry diet Sex of dog: Male dogs seem to be at a higher risk Age: Older dogs, between the ages of years, seem to be at a higher risk Exercising immediately after a meal Factors Suspected to Decrease the Risk of Bloat Feeding canned dog food Feeding two or more meals per day No exercise for several hours after a meal What Does Bloat Look Like? Dogs with bloat can be restless and unable to get comfortable or lay down. They can have very distended abdomens that can be very painful. They may also have very fast heart rates and changes in breathing. In severe cases, they may collapse or be unable to stand. It is very important that if you see any of these signs that you have your dog evaluated by a veterinarian immediately. As veterinarians we understand that each dog can show different variations of these signs; if there is any concern an owner can always call a veterinary clinic and ask their opinion. Why is Bloat an Emergency? Bloat sets off a cascade of damaging events to the body. As the stomach fills with air it expands and starts to cut off blood returning to the heart. The expansion of the stomach then puts pressure on the diaphragm, making it difficult for the dog to breath. The stomach then starts to rotate cutting off the blood supply to the stomach. When the stomach rotates it can entrap the spleen and thus cause damage or cut off blood supply to the spleen and even rupture blood vessels. All of these changes lead to the dog going into shock. Blood pressure drops, arrhythmias and internal bleeding can occur as well as sepsis. Unfortunately, death can occur in a matter of hours if bloat goes undetected and untreated. All of these changes happen very quickly, which is why it is so important for an owner to recognize the signs of bloat and get them to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Treatment Emergency veterinary medical attention must be sought for treatment of bloat. Unfortunately, there is nothing that an owner can do at home. Abdominal x-rays are the most reliable way to assess stomach position and diagnose bloat. Stabilization of the patient and diagnostics must be performed immediately. These dogs require pain medication and intravenous fluids. Surgical intervention is a necessary step in the treatment of bloat and should be done as soon as the patient is stable enough to undergo anesthesia and surgery. During a bloat circulation can be compromised and other abdominal organs, such as the spleen or intestines, may be affected, as a result the spleen may also need to be removed in some cases. Bloat, requires a multiple day stay in the hospital for post-operative care and recovery. If not treated by a veterinarian immediately, bloat can be fatal. Most dogs who are diagnosed and treated early in the development of bloat recover from surgery and can lead a normal life. The surgery consists of de-rotating the stomach back to its normal position and then tacking it to the body wall. This is called a gastropexy. If the spleen was involved in the twisting, then it may have to be removed as well. Even after the surgery is performed these dogs are not out of the woods. There are many complications that can still arise after surgery and it is very common for these dogs to be in the hospital for multiple days. Preventing Bloat Recommendations for preventing bloat are feeding several small meals a day, discouraging drinking large amounts of water at one time, allowing some time between eating and activity, and feeding on the floor. Hopefully knowing some of these preventative tips will decrease the chances of your furry family member bloating; however, if you see the signs listed above do not wait! Get your pet to an emergency veterinary hospital immediately. Ideally call ahead so they know you are coming and can plan for your arrival. Time is of the essence. Shallow breathing Pale gums Puppies experiencing bloat will appear visibly uncomfortable and usually have a distended stomach. The pain may make your puppy act restless, pace, and whine and cry. Puppies may also wretch without producing vomit, as the blocked stomach entry will prevent regurgitation. The gums may appear pale, demonstrating a lack of oxygen, accompanied by shallow breathing and a rapid heartbeat. If your puppy is not treated, it will collapse and die. Causes of Bloat Several factors can contribute to your puppy experiencing bloat. Breed: Large and giant puppy breeds are three times more likely to experience bloat than mixed breeds. Large and giant breeds have wider, deeper stomachs that can hold more air, putting them at higher risk. The deep, narrow chest conformation of certain breeds creates a more acute angle where the esophagus connects with the stomach, making bloat more likely. Still, puppies of any size can develop bloat. Ingesting too much food or water quickly: When puppies eat food or drink too fast, they can inhale and trap large amounts of air in their stomachs and create bloat. The food or water itself can sometimes cause bloat, as a too-full stomach can press on other organs, no matter what is filling it. Exercising after eating: If a puppy partakes in strenuous exercise too soon after eating, its stomach can twist and swell, causing bloat. Anxiety: Irritable, anxious, and aggressive puppies are more prone to bloat. Weight: Dogs of any breed that weigh over pounds have a 20 percent risk of developing bloat at some point in their life. Diagnosing Bloat in Puppies To diagnose your puppy with bloat, your vet will examine clinical signs, medical history, and perform blood analysis and imaging tests like an ultrasound or X-ray. Imaging tests will reveal the extent of the bloat, and blood analysis will evaluate the level of oxygen loss. A speedy diagnosis is ideal, as an operation should happen as soon as possible. Treatment If you notice your puppy has symptoms of bloat, it needs to be taken to an animal hospital immediately. First, your vet will stabilize your puppy by administering IV fluids and oxygen. To treat bloat, your veterinarian decompresses your puppy's distended stomach by passing a tube down its throat to empty air from the stomach and allow the return of normal blood flow. When the stomach is twisted, your puppy will need surgery to properly reconfigure it. Sometimes, part of the stomach or the entirety of the spleen will need to be removed. If your puppy's surgery is successful, your surgeon may perform a gastropexy the suturing of the stomach to the abdominal wall to prevent future twisting. Prognosis for Puppies With Bloat The prognosis for puppies with bloat varies based on how early treatment is received and the extent of the organ damage. After surgery, your vet will monitor your puppy in the hospital for several days. Some puppies treated can return to normal shortly after treatment, while others will die regardless. The mortality rate for puppies who have received treatment for bloat is 20 to 40 percent and rises with every organ injury sustained. How to Prevent Bloat Although you can't completely prevent bloat, there are measures you can take to reduce its likelihood of occurring. Gastropexy surgery may be recommended preventatively, particularly in Great Danes or other puppies predisposed to bloat. Gastropexy doesn't prevent air from being trapped in the stomach, but it does keep the stomach from twisting. You can take many at-home measures to minimize the risk of bloat. These include lowering your puppy's food bowl, feeding smaller quantities of food over multiple meals throughout the day, separating multiple dogs at feeding times, and waiting several hours after eating before exercising your puppy. Positive puppy socialization that reduces anxiety can also help prevent bloat as it ages. FAQ Why does eating too fast cause bloat? Often if your puppy eats too much or too fast, its belly can be overfilled with food and gas, press on other organs, and cause bloat. How common is puppy bloat in a small breed dogs? Bloat most frequently occurs in large and giant breed dogs, but all dogs are able to experience the condition. How fast does it take for bloat to set in? Bloat sets in within two to three hours after your puppy begins experiencing symptoms. If you suspect your pet is sick, call your vet immediately. For health-related questions, always consult your veterinarian, as they have examined your pet, know the pet's health history, and can make the best recommendations for your pet. Article Sources The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. To treat bloat in German Shepherds, rush your dog to the vet or emergency animal hospital. The vet will then take over in stabilizing your dog by decompressing the stomach and giving pain relief and intravenous fluids. If the stomach remains twisted, surgery is required. Diagnosis may include taking an abdominal x-ray to determine the position of the stomach and the extent of the condition. To stabilize your German Shepherd, the vet will decompress the stomach to reduce the pressure caused by the gas build. Decompression involves passing a tube in the stomach or using a hypodermic needle on the side of the abdomen if passing a tube is impossible. Depending on the bloat stage, putting your dog on fluids and performing shock therapy may also make up part of the stabilization treatment. German Shepherd Stomach Flip Surgery If the stomach is still twisted after decompression, the dog will go into emergency surgery to correct the twist. Extreme damage to parts of the stomach wall and the spleen may mean that they have to be removed entirely. A German Shepherd that has survived bloat is susceptible to relapse. Surgery must conclude with gastropexy to prevent a further occurrence. This procedure attaches the stomach to the abdominal wall to prevent it from twisting in the future. How to Prevent Bloat in German Shepherds To prevent bloat in German Shepherds, avoid large meals and feed a nutritious diet twice a day. If providing dry food, use cold-pressed or a mix of dry and wet. Avoid exercising your dog an hour before and after eating. Your vet can also perform laparoscopic gastropexy — a non-invasive surgery. Feed your dog two or three times a day. This is preferred rather than a single heavy meal. Avoid poor-quality recreation bones and chews. Opt for healthy dog treats. Check out this article for my recommendations of the best treats for German Shepherds. Ensure your dog eats a nutritious and balanced diet. Feed your dog fresh food. Avoid fermentable carbohydrates, genetically manipulated food, foods with preservatives, and citric acid. Train your dog to eat slowly and not gulp down his food. This one gets over 80, positive reviews! Dogs should not exercise before and after a meal. I like to give my German Shepherd at least an hour and a half. A few small drinks during the day are best. This will help identify any conditions that may predispose your dog to bloat. Keep an anti-gas medicine in your first-aid kit. Consult your vet on what type is best and when to use it. Prophylactic gastropexy. A non-invasive preventative procedure to stop stomach twisting. See below. Prophylactic Gastropexy Prophylactic gastropexy is also known as preventive gastropexy. This procedure ensures that even though your dog may experience bloating due to air build-up, the deadly complications caused by a twisted stomach are prevented. You can also opt for a non-invasive option known as laparoscopic gastropexy. The vet makes a small incision through the abdomen and uses a camera to direct the procedure with this method. It can be performed at the time of spay or neutering. German Shepherds are known to suffer from many sensitive stomach issues, of which bloat is just one cause. You can learn about other causes of a sensitive stomach in GSDs in this article. Yes, bloat can be fatal for German Shepherds. Bloat is a serious condition that can cause the stomach to twist and cut off blood flow to vital organs. This can lead to shock, organ damage, and even death if not treated promptly. German Shepherds are particularly vulnerable to bloat due to their deep chests and large size. German Shepherds are more prone to bloat than other breeds due to their deep chests and large size. This anatomy makes it easier for their stomachs to fill with air and twist, leading to bloat. Final Thoughts Regrettably, German Shepherds are prone to bloat. Watch out for the signs and symptoms and familiarize yourself with the preventative measures mentioned in this article. The only correct way to treat GDV is to get your dog to the vet or emergency animal hospital as soon as possible. Related Posts You May Like:. It's A Matter of Life or Death. Updated: Oct 26, Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus GDV , also known as Gastric Torsion or Bloat, is a life-threatening condition that can happen to any dog breed of any age, but it typically occurs in deep-chested, larger breeds, such as German Shepherds. Bloat GDV occurs when the stomach fills with air and possibly food dilates rapidly and twists, cutting off the blood supply to the intestines and preventing blood from returning to the heart. This results in tissue death quickly if not treated immediately by emergency surgery. More often seen in German Shepherds, particularly older male German Shepherds 7 to 12 years of age, bloat has become more common in dogs as they've been bred for an increasingly slimmer physique. We here at Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary have encountered bloat several times over the years, with more incidents happening in males than females. In this blog post, we will discuss what bloat is, how to prevent it from happening, and what you do if your senior German Shepherd bloats Senior German Shepherds are at risk of bloating because their deep chests allow for large amounts of food and water consumption without difficulty; this puts them at a higher risk than other breeds that have shorter digestive tracts, like a toy poodle who has a limited capacity for larger intakes of food and water. That being said, we have done everything right in the past and still have had it happen to us twice without immediately being able to determine why. It was later determined that cancer was the underlying cause, particularly stomach cancer. So please, don't beat yourself up if you do everything by the book and your senior German Shepherd still bloats because sometimes, it's out of our hands. More about that below Treatment for bloat. Time is of the essence here, folks. I can't stress that enough. It is imperative to get your senior German Shepherd immediate medical attention if you suspect that he is bloating because it is quite literally a race against the clock. If you suspect bloat, call your veterinarian immediately and tell them what is happening. They will have you come in right away and may even be waiting for you outside with a gurney upon arrival.Once your senior German Shepherd is under medical care, they will put an IV in him and begin to decompress his stomach while providing pain medication. After that, they will do blood work and X-rays to determine if it is bloat. When bloat is confirmed, they will perform surgery. Armed with that information, we opted not to have surgery and decided to humanly euthanize instead. Side note. Sometimes, the spleen gets caught up in the twisting and may also need to be removed. When Woody bloated, that happened to him, and he did relatively fine with having a splenectomy. Another side note. If you opt to have the surgery, that's a good time to ensure a Gastropexy is performed so twisting can't happen in the future. Gastropexy is when the veterinarian tacks the dog's stomach down to prevent it from twisting in the future. This is essential because once your senior German Shepherd bloats, they are predisposed to it happening again in the future. Note: Gastropexy can be performed at any time, so you don't have to wait until it's an emergency. Once your senior German Shepherd is home from surgery, he will be wiped out, so be sure to give him the time he needs to recover without pushing him to do more than he can. When Woody bloated at 11 years of age, he made it through the surgery, but it took him almost a month to recover. Sadly, shortly after that, his Degenerative Myelopathy reared its ugly head, which I swear was accelerated by the whole bloat ordeal. It's essential to keep your dog calm while recovering. And while he is recovering, try to reevaluate what could have caused him bloat in the first place. If you can pinpoint what lead to the unpleasant event, make any necessary adjustments to prevent it from happening again. Woody bloated because we had just moved that day to our new home, which happened to be during a scary thunderstorm, and he was petrified of thunderstorms. In addition, someone was giving him treats he normally didn't have, unbeknownst to me, so I could pretty much figure out what caused his bloat. In conclusion, bloat is a life-treating matter that requires immediate medical attention. Do not wait to call your veterinarian if you suspect bloat. To those who know what to look for, bloat can be obvious, but it can also be challenging to determine the cause of bloat. It can be as simple as overeating or something more serious like stomach cancer. If you notice any changes that look like bloat in your senior German Shepherd, stay calm and seek medical help. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. This post may contain links to products that I may receive compensation for at no additional cost to you. View my affiliate disclosure here. What makes German Shepherds prone to this condition? It is their deep chest and large size, which is why GDV bloat can also occur in other dogs with the same characteristics. In addition to that trait, GDV is seen more commonly in males than in females. This particular condition requires immediate surgery for your dog as soon as you begin to spot any signs and symptoms. Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus is more than just an upset stomach or simple bloat - instead, it is life-threatening and will prove to become fatal if not urgently treated. GDV is characterized by the stomach filling with gas and becoming immensely bloated or swollen, later twisting degrees clockwise, shutting off both the entrance and exit. If you have a puppy that has diarrhea and is vomiting, rest assure he likely does not have GDV. Read our article here to learn the causes and how to help your puppy with his diarrhea and vomiting. Encouraging your German Shepherd to participate in physical activity after eating or drinking a large amount of water. This disorder is most prone to occur two or three hours after your dog has had a meal and then exercised. Genetics may be a possible cause, as a dog who has had parents, grandparents, or any other relatives with this condition may have acquired it from them genetically. An anxious, stressed, or frantic dog often likes to act hyperactive, fearful, or restless. Calmer dogs are at a much lower risk of ever developing this disorder. Decreased intestinal motion due to certain illnesses, which may subsequently lead to stomach dilation and volvulus. Being a male or an older dog, especially one beyond the age of 7. Curious what other health conditions are susceptible in German Shepherds? Read about 11 of the most common GSD health conditions here. The factors responsible for these breeds being prone to this disorder are their naturally large body size and their deep chests. Nonetheless, bloat can occur in all other dogs, including those of medium or small sizes. Other Facts About Gastric Dilatation Volvulus Gastric dilatation, which is the regular, non-life-threatening variant of dog bloat, can occur in elderly dogs of any size, including those of either medium or smaller sizes. However, large dogs, especially males and elderly dogs weighing pounds or over, have a 20 percent chance. The stomach full of pressure will push both on the posterior rib cage and the diaphragm, resulting in not only shortness of breath but also immense visible swelling and bloating of the abdomen. Systematic shock results since your dog's blood circulation is severely decreased, preventing blood and oxygen from getting to the vital tissues. Your dog will collapse, and you will notice his swollen abdomen, especially apparent on the left side. There are no symptoms of signs which differentiate Gastric Dilatation Volvulus from typical bloat, known just as Gastric Dilation. This is why vet intervention is necessary after spotting the symptoms of both conditions before things get entirely out of control and turn for the worse. Here are some ways you can help prevent Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus from occurring in your German Shepherd: Feed your German Shepherd two or three meals a day instead of only one large, hefty meal, which can also result in typical bloat. Don't feed your dog when he is acting hyperactive or restless. Always wait until he has calmed down and become more relaxed before giving him his food. This can be achieved by exercising your dog prior to feeding time. Curious why your dog is running around the house like crazy? He may have a case of the zoomies. Read our article to see the cause of this behavior and whether or not you should be concerned. Never allow running or any form of exercise, in particular one that is vigorous, after a meal, especially a large one. The very same goes for when your dog has drunk a large quantity of water. If your dog is prone to gulping or chowing down his food very quickly, it can make him much more predisposed to bloat. Therefore, if you see your dog finishing his food at an alarmingly fast pace, invest in a slow-feeding bowl that will slow down the rate he eats. Ensure your dog is at a healthy weight appropriate for his breed because being overly skinny could increase the chances of GDV. The weight of a male German Shepherd should range anywhere from 66 to 88 pounds, whereas a female should weigh anywhere from 49 to 71 pounds. Use canned food in your dog's diet from time to time, which allows for easier and more effective digestion. Don't give your dog food that contains a high amount of citric acid, as this can also play a huge factor when it comes to bloat. Avoid elevating your dog's food bowl unless he has joint problems or any other medical condition that requires for it. Feed your dog kibble, which is low in grain which is often the big culprit behind any kind of bloating in dogs, even regular bloating. Feed your dog kibble, which contains a lot of calcium and little fat. Add water to your pet's food to allow for easier digestion and may prevent him from chowing down the food too fast. If your German Shepherd has experienced gastric dilatation and volvulus, there is a very high chance that it may happen again. One surgical procedure that is highly efficient at preventing this is called Gastropexy, which involves attaching the stomach to the body to avoid its twisting when bloat occurs. Having Gastropexy done in your dog prevents GDV by as much as 75 percent. It's not as expensive as you may think and it can literally be a life saver in a health crisis such as this. Read our article here to help you chose the best pet health insurance for you. If your German Shepherd is experiencing GDV, his inflated, swollen stomach will press against abdominal veins and thus restrict the blood circulating through his body, preventing both blood and the oxygen in the blood from getting to the vital tissues. Improper circulation to the stomach wall will follow next because of the pressure of gas build-up in the dog's stomach. As a result, systematic shock will occur, impacting even more severely by the toxins now accumulated due to the process of digestion being unable to carry on. First of all, a tube is inserted down the dog's throat, or, if this option isn't possible in the case of a stomach twist volvulus , then a needle will be placed into your dog's stomach through his skin to be able to get rid of the build-up pressure. Alternatively, a catheter may also be used. This is followed by a shock treatment involving emergency measures such as intravenous fluids and other necessary medication. Afterward, your dog will go through surgery to untwist the stomach and ensure it is restored to how it was before. In addition, your dog will have his dying or dead stomach tissues removed. At this time, he can have Gastropexy done as well to prevent this dreadful disorder from happening again. Your German Shepherd may also have Pyloroplasty, which will allow the stomach contents to pass on through into the small intestine. There is a 15 to 20 percent mortality rate when it comes to Gastric Dilatation Volvulus, which can only be higher in the case of heart arrhythmias, severe tissue damage, or removal of the spleen.
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labradoodle puppyll - The German Shepherd? Photo by Karen Sanders Studio on Shutterstock German Shepherd Rottweiler mixes can be very intelligent dogs and even though they might be easy to train for experienced dog owners, beginners might find themselves struggling. These dogs are not as sensitive to the handler and have a high drive while being an all-rounder. Of course, all of the above depend on your exact breeding line. As many of you probably know, the Rottweiler and German Shepherd are both prone to diseases like hip dysplasia. You can control this by choosing the right breeder. A reputable breeder that tests all dogs for health will make sure that everything checks out, from the hips to the heart and eyes. Do not fall into the trap of mixing the biggest Rottie with the German Shepherd that wins the prize in every sloped back competition. Sloping backs are a real issue with the German Shepherd while the Rottie mainly has to fight with too much weight gain, especially during puppyhood. While many sources only mention up to 8 years of age for the Rottie, I actually believe that due to proper breeding, a healthy diet and environment as well as exercise, your Rottie can live well beyond that age. The exact lifespan depends heavily on various factors, of course. What most people are asking with this question is how even-tempered the Rottweiler German Shepherd mix can be. That may look surprising but the Rottweiler is actually very good with kids. Countless hours of research, watching videos, interacting with them live — all these things will help with determining if the German Shepherd Rottweiler mixed breed dog is the right choice for you. Be prepared to take on the leadership and treat your furry buddy with respect and sensitivity and they can be the most loving companion. The Rottweiler is known for not being one that forgives any serious mistakes, so make sure you have the experience and knowledge that is required. No matter what the exact fur will look like, get ready for serious shedding twice a year. Apart from shedding season, regular brushing should suffice. Both dog breeds have an undercoat which makes them suitable pets for colder climates. How big do Shepweilers actually get? Male German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Height: 24 — 27 inches 60—69 cm Male German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Weight: 85 — lbs kg As you probably suspected, females are smaller and lighter, even very tall females are roughly the same height as a small male Rottweiler , for example. Weight and height prognosis are hard enough as is, giving these numbers for mixed breeds is a lot more unpredictable. How Much Are Shepweilers? Papers may not be your focus, but the fact that purebred dogs can be health tested a lot easier since the pool of genetic diseases is smaller, makes searching a proper breeder easier. Check our lifetime cost article for more hint: the cost of my Rottie runs in the tens of thousands of dollars. Both breeds can have great obedience skills and excellent drive, just make sure you get a healthy dog that fits to your lifestyle. Do you have a GSD Rottweiler mix? Share with us your experiences in the comments down below! The resulting dog is a genetic gamble in terms of health and temperament and offers no advantage to a health-tested, properly selected purebred puppy. Check out my article discussing the most relevant scientific study on this topic. Pin This: Disclaimer: This blog post does not substitute veterinary attention and does not intend to do so. I am not a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. If your dog shows any sign of illness, call your vet. Post navigation. German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Photos You need to have previous experience with dogs To understand better the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix, we should take a closer look at her parents. Rottweilers are in the Top 3, according to the same list. They have powerful shoulders and leg muscles, being used in the past to pull small wagons and to guard ranches. By mixing these two great dogs, breeders have obtained a strong, very intelligent crossbreed, with great watchdog abilities. Usually, these dogs are loyal, affectionate, and develop a strong bond with their families. However, when they lack training, they can have little or no respect for rules and their excellent watchdog abilities will make them overprotective and even aggressive. Be patient, but firm, and use positive reinforcement only. These dogs are fast learners, as both their parents are obedient, highly intelligent, and like to please their owners. A German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix needs exercise to stay in good health. Being very intelligent, this dog also needs serious mental stimulation. Keep her busy with training sessions and interesting games every day. Your puppy should be exercised according to her age and physical abilities. As an adult, your dog needs to be active for about two hours a day. Split this time between one or two minute walks, a trip to the dog park, and some short play sessions. They usually like playing catch or Frisbee, and can also use some time spent on their own in the yard. Make sure your dog is ready for such activities before putting her through such intense exercising. If bored, your dog will mess up your house, and your life Large breed dogs are rarely suitable for small houses, with no yard in which to move freely. Destructive chewing is often seen in both German Shepherds and Rottweilers, so you can expect a similar response from your dog if you leave her all by herself every day. Choose a dog cage for large breeds and furnish it with resistant chew toys. These dogs can also develop excessive barking when they get bored, which is stressful and annoying, especially for your neighbours. If you work too much, hire a pet walker or take your dog to a daycare, where she can get involved in some interesting activities in your absence. Your dog can develop serious health issues Despite their impressive looks and strength, almost all large breeds run the risk developing a series of medical problems. A German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix is no exception, even more so as both the Rottweiler and the German Shepherd are famous for their specific health issues. Some health conditions your dog can inherit from her parents are: cancer;. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Highlights German Shepherd Rottweiler Mixes are mixed breed dogs, meaning they are not purebreds like their German Shepherd Dog or Rottweiler parents. The main colors of Rottie Shepherds are black, gray, sable, white, red, tan, and cream. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of two or three colors. Both parent breeds are prone to shedding, which might not these mixed breed dogs a poor choice for allergy sufferers. These dogs have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one good half-hour- to hour-long walk per day with a few good, active play sessions and shorter walks mixed in. German Shepherd Rottweiler Mixes can make fun playmates for kids of all ages, but this big dog could accidentally hurt smaller children with what was meant to be a playful romp. Train your dog not to jump up early on. German Shepherd Rottweiler Mixes are pretty amicable with other dogs, as long as they are introduced slowly and properly. When it comes to cats, your Shepherd Rottie may have the instinct to chase. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds, both of German descent , to combine their loyalty, strength, and intelligence. They continued to create German Shepherd Rottweiler Mixes as demand for the pups climbed. Even though the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix breed got its start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix rescues, or check with breed specific Rottweiler or German Shepherd rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. That said, as a cross between German Shepherd Dog and Rottweiler parents, you can expect Rotties to be on the large side. Most weigh in at 75 to pounds and range in height from 22 to 28 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger than average. Both the German Shepherd and the Rottweiler were bred to be working dogs, and this mixed breed likes to stay active both physically and mentally. They love to snuggle with their humans, and they tend to stick closest to whoever their main caretaker is. They can sometimes become a little too protective of their humans if they feel threatened. As big dogs, this mixed breed thrives in family homes, preferably with a yard or other area to run around. Still, a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix can do just fine living in an urban setting, as long as their human is active and dedicated to exercising them frequently. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues , which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Autoimmune Diseases Eye Disease Most of these problems, however, can be prevented or treated as long as you are willing to monitor your dog and keep a close eye on them. You can ask your veterinarian to schedule your dog for a DNA test that will help in the determination of possible inherited diseases. There are also balanced diets that are dependent on what your dog needs. You can ask your veterinarian for a diet recommendation that is specific for your dog. Rottweiler German Shepherd Cross Food Requirements It is vital that your Rottweiler German Shepherd cross is fed the right diet to maintain its glorious health and physique. You must also keep in mind that this breed is prone to obesity, so exercise and proper diet is important to avoid health complications. Producers have different recipes for big dogs, so make sure you check the label when buying the best large breed dry dog food. On the other hand, its parent breeds, German Shepherd and Rottweiler, have similar dietary needs to there is not much complication as to what to feed your puppy. Older dogs will be better off with the best senior dry dog food brands. As similar with other dogs, there better the source or main ingredient is in dog food, the healthier your pet becomes. Check out our guide to best dry dog food and learn more about the nutritional requirements of canines. The main concern with dog food recipes, however, is the presence of grains. Many owners opt for a grain-free option, which is what to go for to avoid allergies in your dogs. To help you pick out the best dog food for your German Shepherd Rottweiler mix, here are some of the best high-protein dog foods: 1. Dog For Dog Food — Not only affordable, but this dog food is also grain-free which is described as what dogs would eat in the wild. It is known to have a better flavor and provides digestible energy and natural antioxidants for a healthier immune system. Wellness Core Dog Food — This dog food has recipes for all sizes and ages. It has an above-average protein and fat content, as well as below-average carbohydrates when compared to other brands. Nutra Thrive dog food supplement and similar products may be considered if you believe the dog is not getting enough micronutrients. Always consult with the vet before giving such products to your pup. They will determine whether the pooch needs their food boosted. Rottweiler German Shepherd Hybrid Exercise Requirements The German Shepherd Rottweiler hybrid is not recommended for owners who have small homes or apartments not only because of their size but also because of their exercise requirements which will include outdoor activities that are best conducted in a spacious backyard. They can spend plenty of time enjoying the outdoors in fine weathers. They also tend to become destructive and chew a lot of things if cooped up for too long. If you are going to leave for a dog for longer than a few hours, it is better to leave them at a dog daycare so they can enjoy and socialize with other dogs. The dog is also fine with any kind of weather since they harbor a decent tolerance of heat and cold. Your dogs will need to have a good exercise regimen especially outdoors. They need to have high physical exercise if you want them to stay fit, healthy, and mentally stimulated. You can start by walking them at least twice a day for at least an hour. You can also opt to jog with your Shottie because experts also recommended that they are involved in high impact and fast-paced exercises. Like most dogs, they also enjoy playing games like balls and fetch at public parks. This can help their mind active and their muscles lean. Always remember that your pet is prone to obesity so satisfying their exercise regimen is important. Rottweiler Crossbred with German Shepherd Training Since its parent breeds are famous for their protective instincts, the chances are that the puppy will also inherit them. For this reason, you should socialize your puppy at a young age so prevent their aggressive tendencies and have them get used to the presence of other animals and people. The training your Shottie will receive highly depends on your intention for adopting the dog. First, you must ask yourself if you want them to become a guard dog or a companion dog. Positive reinforcement such as rewards and praises are highly recommended in training your pet. Here are some of the effective methods in which you can teach your dog: The Mark Good Behavior Method — Pick out a unique sound for your dog and chime it whenever your dog does something right. You can use it so that your puppy will learn that music means a reward is coming. Eventually, you can use it along with command words. The Mirror Me Method — If your dog is glued to you all the time, you can use this chance to teach them how to behave through mimicry. The Tied To You Method — If you intent your dog to become a companion dog, keep him tied to you most of the time and try to build communication and trust with them. German Shepherd Crossbreed with Rottweiler and Families One of the many ways that you can adopt a Rottman Shepherd is through rescue shelters but be careful in picking one. You must be well aware of its upbringing and temperament because there is a chance that these dogs were abandoned because of behavioral issues as a result mainly of lack of training, poor obedience, lack of socialization, or sometimes, even aggression. With small kids, it can be hard to control them because they are quite large. They might become overwhelming for the children. On the other hand, they are also in need of a company most of the time because they tend to become destructive if bored. With proper training at a young age, they can become beautiful guard dogs that are active. They can also provide families with good companionship as they love creatures. These two breeds are in fact very similar, both with German heritage, and therefore the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix is a fantastic crossbreed. These dogs are intelligent, friendly and good natured, making them excellent family members. You may need some experience with large breeds before you think about purchasing a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix, but read on below to see whether this pup is the right addition for your home. They are very strong and intelligent and the purpose of breeding them was to eliminate health issues and negative traits that their parent breeds held. The German Shepherd had a controversial past. These dogs were used in World War One and were seen as German dogs which is why they were shunned. However, these dogs regained popularity with the public in the s and have been a favorite with the police and military for decades, due to their hardworking and loyal nature. The Rottweiler also originated from Germany and were strong drover dogs. As technology advanced they were not need to herd cattle anymore, but they were known for their great work ethic. These working dogs continued to be useful members of society and, since the s, have been guide dogs, guard dogs, therapy dogs and search and rescue dogs. Your dog may look more like their German Shepherd parent or their Rottweiler parent. However, we can make assumptions based on past litters. These puppies are normally born in litter sizes of around eight. It does not matter which parent breed is the sire or the dam because they are both similar sizes. Always make sure that you buy from a reputable breeder. Appearance This mix dog is a medium to large breed and is normally fully matured between 18 months and 2 years of age. Normally, these designer dogs stand between 22 to 27 inches in height and weigh between 75 to lbs in weight. These dogs normally have floppy ears, but if they take after their German Shepherd GSD parent more, they may become pointy as they mature. Coat This mix breed normally has a medium, dense coat, although they can have longer coats. Unfortunately, these dogs shed a lot! They are not hypoallergenic and are not the pet for those with allergies. The amount they shed can be helped with regular grooming, but we will go into more detail about that later on. Color The German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix almost always has a black and tan coloring, just like both their parent breeds. Temperament The German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix has a strong personality and is certainly suited to those who have experience with large dog breeds. That being said, these pups are loyal and loving, bonding to their owners and making an excellent family dog. With the right upbringing, these dogs are extremely tolerable of everyone — adults, children and other dogs and animals. They can sometimes be aloof with strangers and other pets when they are younger, but with the right socialization this can be fixed. With both parent breeds historic working breeds, it is no surprise that the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix is an active and energetic dog. This is one of the reasons they are not recommended for first time dog owners. These pups love to be outside and love to play games. The perfect companion, they love to be near you and like to please. Known Health Issues One of the main reasons for breeding the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix was to eliminate health problems that their parent breeds face. While this certainly happened, these dogs are still prone to some health concerns. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. Elbow Dysplasia — this is a common condition in large breed dogs. It can be caused by different growth rates and can cause lameness. It can be fixed with surgery. Bloat — this affects both parent breeds and is potentially fatal. You need to know the symptoms of it. Feeding your dog smaller more frequent meals instead of one big meal can help to reduce the risk. Degenerative Myelopathy — this is a progressive disease of the spinal cord that can result in hind leg paralysis. There is no cure but there is treatment. It can be helped with intensive physical rehabilitation. Regular vet checkups and keeping an eye on your dog will ensure you can catch any of these issues before they become untreatable. Remember — buy from a reputable breeder and the chances your dog will suffer any health conditions will be greatly reduced. Trusted breeders will do health checks on both parent breeds and will not crossbreed if there is a chance of passing on any severe issues to offspring. Daily Life Now we know all about the traits and characteristics of the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix, it is time to take a look at what life with one of these pups is really like. We will cover their food and diet, their exercise requirements and their grooming needs. Food And Diet It is no surprise that this large breed of dog needs a lot of food. You should be feeding the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix roughly calories a day, which equates to around 5 cups of kibble. Of course, you should always double check the back of the food packet to see the exact amount of a certain food you should be feeding your dog based on their weight. Always check that the food you feed your German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix meets their nutritional requirements. Due to their high energy levels, they need high-quality protein in their diet. This can be reduced to two meals a day once they are fully grown. One thing to remember with the Shepweiler, as with other large breeds such as the Bernedoodle, is that because they are a large breed, they are more prone to bloat which can be dangerous. Smaller, more frequent meals will reduce the risk of bloat. The German shepherd and the rottweiler are popular breeds, each hailing from Germany individually, and both are known for their higher intelligence and effectiveness as working dogs. Police forces and the military often use the German shepherd rottweiler mix due to their intelligent, easily trainable nature; this nature also makes them a good choice for service dog duties. Today, many individuals and families recognize the benefits of adding this protective, watchful breed to their family, and this mix is steadily gaining popularity as a companionship dog. Because this dog is a designer breed and there are no breed standards for the mixed breed, the appearance of the German shepherd rottweiler mix can vary greatly. That being said, they tend to have longer snouts, strong hindquarters due to the athletic nature of both the German shepherd and the rottweiler, and either floppy or straight ears depending on their individual genetics. They are a larger breed and weigh approximately pounds on average. The coat color of the German shepherd rottweiler mix is often black or brown, but there may be traces of tan, brown, or grey. They are likely to be bi-colored and may have rottweiler or German shepherd patterning depending on which genetics win out in the breeding process. The coat of the German shepherd rottweiler mix is thicker and smooth, and it may have a short to medium length. The German shepherd rottweiler mix is a large-sized dog. They stand between 22 and 27 inches tall and weigh between 75 and pounds. There is not much difference in size and weight between males and females of this breed. Their coat is thicker and smooth and typically short, though medium-length hair sometimes occurs. If your German shepherd rottweiler mix has longer hair, they will likely require brushing more often. The temperament of the German shepherd rottweiler mix can only be described as loyal, protective, and dedicated. This is a breed that will be devoted to its family, and they will form strong bonds with their primary caretaker. While many individuals may perceive them as aloof or aggressive based on their appearance, they can actually be quite cuddly. Oftentimes, this breed will assume they are a lap dog, following you everywhere around your home so they can spend time with you and keep an eye on you. Therefore, they may be prone to aggressiveness or destructive behavior if they are not properly socialized, trained, and cared for. Contrary to their appearance, the German shepherd rottweiler mix can be quite affectionate. They are protective and dedicated to their families, and they will love to spend all their time around you, whether cuddling, playing, or simply napping at your side while you go about your daily life. The German shepherd rottweiler mix may be good with children in certain circumstances. Additionally, your German shepherd rottweiler mix will need to be properly socialized and trained to understand how to interact with children correctly. Homes with older children are likely ok for this dog, but you should always supervise playtime between your dog and children. The German shepherd rottweiler mix can be good with other animals as long as they are introduced slowly and your dog has been properly trained and socialized. In most cases, however, they get along with other animals easily. Many individuals may believe this dog is aggressive due to their appearance and the fact that they are a mix of two of the more popular guard breeds. As long as you properly socialize your dog this can be done with a dog of any age if needed , commit to a consistent training schedule, and make sure that your German shepherd rottweiler mix gets plenty of exercise throughout the day, they are unlikely to be aggressive. They may still bark at perceived threats and be generally untrusting of strangers, but this is due to their protective, loyal nature more than it is aggressiveness. Your German shepherd rottweiler mix is unlikely to be very vocal and bark without reason. Mostly, you will hear this dog bark only when they perceive a threat, are trying to alert you to something, or feel the need to protect you. You can train proper barking habits into your dog, and part of what makes them a good watchdog is their ability to bark and alert their owners only in certain situations. The German shepherd rottweiler mix is a combination of two of the more intelligent dog breeds around today, making them fairly smart. They require a higher amount of mental stimulation than other dog breeds, and they do best when presented with a consistent training routine. German shepherd rottweiler mixes are eager to please and love learning new things. In most cases, the German shepherd rottweiler mix will be easy to train thanks to their hard-working nature and their intelligence. Never use negative reinforcement such as yelling or hitting to train this dog or any dog , as they will likely learn to hate training sessions and distrust you, leading to destructive and aggressive behaviors. German shepherd rottweiler mixes are a high-energy breed and require a lot of exercise and other physical stimulation to stay happy. You will need to give them at least an hour or two of exercise per day and make sure that they receive a minimum of two long walks each day. Additionally, they will need plenty of space to run around in safely and have outdoor time to spend with their families and toys. This breed is a great choice if you already have an active lifestyle full of hiking, long walks, and time outside and want to add an energetic companion to it. The German shepherd rottweiler mix is not the best choice for an apartment dog. They are a large dog breed and need plenty of space to exercise, sleep, and play in around your home. Apartments with small living quarters, breed restrictions, and minimal access to the outdoors or dog park play areas are not the best living conditions for this breed. Your dog may develop destructive or aggressive behaviors due to the lack of space and exercise areas. A larger home with plenty of outdoor access or a fenced-in backyard makes the best living choice for this dog breed. German shepherd rottweiler mixes are a great choice for a watchdog. This breed is known for being loyal, protective, and watchful, and they are naturally wary around strangers due to their dedication to their family. They are also a relatively quiet breed, so when your German shepherd rottweiler mix starts barking, you know that they are doing it for a purpose. Your dog can be trained for watchdog and guard dog duties in addition to their natural propensity for watchfulness, and their appearance alone may be enough to scare off potential threats. The German shepherd rottweiler mix can be a good choice for a service dog. This breed is intelligent, skilled at learning new commands, and large enough to be an effective mobility or medical service dog. They are also quite loyal and watchful, which are great characteristics for a psychiatric service dog. Additionally, as a combination of two working breeds, they thrive when able to perform commands for their owners, which makes them especially suited for daily service dog tasks. How to Care for a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Your German shepherd rottweiler mix will need proper care to ensure their health and happiness. First, make sure that your dog is getting an hour or two of exercise each day, including at least two walks per day, and that they have plenty of toys and outdoor playtime. This will help them meet their physical stimulation needs and ensure they stay happy; this also decreases destructive behaviors. You should be feeding your dog high-quality wet or dry food based on their dietary needs and size, and you can supplement their diet with nutritional treats. Make sure to maintain a consistent training routine with your German shepherd, as this will help meet their mental stimulation needs. Brush your German shepherd rottweiler mix a few times a week or more if they have a longer coat, and take them for professional grooming occasionally to ensure their nails, ears, and coat are all kept in top condition. The German shepherd rottweiler mix is not the most high-maintenance dog, but they will likely need occasional baths and professional grooming visits. Grooming can be especially helpful around shedding season when the fur coming off of this dog generally increases. German shepherd rottweiler mixes have an average shedding amount, but their thicker coat ensures that a lot of hair will come off during shedding season. You should brush your dog regularly to help with proper shedding and preventing tangles, and you may want to bathe them more regularly or take them for a professional groom during shedding season. Your German shepherd rottweiler mix will need approximately 40 to 50 calories per pound of body weight as a starting point. For most dry dog foods, this equates to about a cup to a cup and a half of food per day split into two or three meals. Consult a veterinarian if you need assistance calculating how much to feed your dog. Many dogs are prone to genetic health conditions or other specific health issues based on their breed, and the German shepherd rottweiler is no different. This breed may be prone to conditions such as: Joint degeneration. This comprehensive guide will introduce you to everything you need to know about the strong and impressive, yet so cuddly teddy bear, that is the mix of a German Shepherd and a Rottweiler. 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 price will largely depend on the pedigree of the parents and the type of breeder. However, you may have a hard time finding a specialist breeder for this hybrid. These dogs are energetic so if your family is on the active side, this may be the pup for you. And as a bonus, they get on really well with kids and other animals. He also likes to be congratulated on each of his achievements. He has all the qualities of a sporty, enduring, strong, and flexible dog; it will therefore be the ideal companion if you are looking for a dog who can follow you in all your physical activities. However, being very close and dependent on his owners, he can show signs of jealousy if you pay more attention to someone other than him. This is why it will be essential to work on his sociability and get to know your dog well to recognize when he is uncomfortable in certain situations. This hybrid will also make a fantastic guardian, thanks to its fearful and robust parents. Are These Dogs Good for Families? However, be aware that this large dog could accidentally injure smaller children by playing too rough. Firmly train your dog not to jump on toddlers and educate your children on how to behave with the dog to avoid any potential problems. German Shepherd Rottweiler mixes are quite friendly with other dogs, provided they are introduced slowly and correctly. However, when it comes to cats or other small animals, your Shepweiler may have an instinct to hunt, especially if he has not been used to being around them from a young age. In the end, it really depends on how much training and socialization you give your dog.