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Black Black and tan Once the breed becomes standardized, these coat colors may become official. But, for now, the goal is to create the blue version as much as possible. Blue Bay Shepherd Temperament Though Vicki was aiming for the lupin look with these dogs, she will sacrifice the look for the temperament. Her primary goal was to create a family pet though getting them to look like wolves was a close second. Regardless, she succeeded at both. Blue Bay Shepherds have a sweet, loving temperament without the aggression and aloofness of their wolf ancestors. But the dogs naturally tend to be sociable, gentle, affectionate, and playful. You can even trust them around livestock and other animals! Can you trust this dog that looks so much like a wolf with other pets? Owners report that their Blue Bay pups have done well with other dogs and cats. They should be properly socialized and raising them with other pets is best. However, this is common amongst dogs in general — not just ones that look like wolves. Their sweet, affectionate nature makes the Blue Bay Shepherd a great family pet. But they will do best in a specific type of home. They also tend to be huge. So a home with a large yard and lots of space to run is an ideal place for them. Are you looking for a simple way to keep track of your dog's daily activity? It has never been easier to monitor your dog with the Fi smart collar. With this slender, smart collar, you can count your pup's steps and set daily, weekly, and monthly goals. You can keep an eye on Fido's fitness routine with it, almost like a FitBit for your dog. Blue Bays can also be prone to separation anxiety, so an active family that will be spending lots of time with the pup is best. Homes with small children may not be the best choice for them purely because of their size. They are gentle, but they are still big and energetic which means they can accidentally harm tiny family members. Wondering if your home would be a good fit? The best way to find out is to ask Vicki herself. However, because the breed is so new, there are no established health patterns and no way to know if there are common problems. Dogs with wolf blood in general tend to be healthy and have a long life expectancy. However, counter this with the tiny gene pool. All Blue Bays come from the same place and the breeders at Southern Breeze Ranch have to be cautious to avoid inbreeding and the problems this can cause. Vicki specifically used the old-style German Shepherds to avoid the modern GSDs' sloped back and the hip dysplasia that commonly comes with it. Plus, the Shepherds she used may still pass down issues like epilepsy, degenerative myelopathy, pituitary dwarfism, and eye abnormalities. To help prevent this, avoid feeding within 30 minutes of exercise — either before or after. You may also consider using a slow feeder bowl if your dog tends to eat too fast. And wolf dogs are exactly the same. A Blue Bay Shepherd requires daily brushing during the worst seasons to keep this shedding under control. The rest of the year, you can get away with brushing them times a week. Regular brushing will also help keep their long hair free of tangles and give it that shine that makes them so beautiful. Regardless, brushing your dog is a great way to bond with him and helps him to feel safe and loved in your home. Since they are so active, Blue Bay Shepherds will generally wear down their own nails running around on hard ground. If not, you should have clippers on hand to keep them from overgrowing. Note that ear infections are common in German Shepherds. Since there are so few and the breed is still in development, there is commonly a one or two-year waiting list for these pups. The pups can also be quite pricey, though less than you might expect from an exclusive breeder. This innovative collar offers real-time GPS tracking, ensuring that you can easily locate your furry companion whenever needed. It goes beyond just tracking by providing valuable insights into their daily exercise levels and sleep patterns. With its sleek design and durable construction, the Fi Smart Collar seamlessly integrates into your dog's lifestyle. Prioritize your peace of mind and strengthen the bond with your Blue Bay Shepherd. Invest in the Fi GPS Smart Collar and the Fi app today and experience a new level of connectedness and care for your beloved furry friend. Final Thoughts Do you love the idea of adding a blue wolf German Shepherd-type dog to your family? The gorgeous Blue Bay Shepherd could be a great option for you. Plus, you would become part of the development of a new breed! Vicki keeps in contact with all the owners of her pups to monitor their development and behavior over time. She wants to create and maintain a standard with her new breed and well as make improvements with each new generation. If you become the lucky owner of one of these pups, you will join a new adventure that is more than just getting a new dog. Plus, you will be the lucky recipient of more love and loyalty than you might have bargained for! The link has been copied! You might also like. As their name suggests, this mix is made up of a German Shepherd and a Wolf, these hybrids crossbreeds are often called Wolfdogs or Wolf-Shepherds. Whilst there are many types of German Shepherd Wolf mixes, the Saarloos Wolfhund is the most notable. They were created by Leendert Saarloos back in when he crossbred a German Shepherd with a Eurasian wolf. The aim of this cross-breeding was to bring back the natural traits the GSD had lost when domesticated. You should also keep in mind that they are illegal in several areas across the US, so do your research before keeping one. The German Shepherd already resembles a wolf, so this hybrid does not look hugely different. Due to the genetic diversity, there is no way to tell what a specific pup will look like when they mature. However, there could be a pup that will look more like their German Shepherd parent, rather than their Wolf parent, and vice-versa. Wolfdogs tend to have smaller skulls than the common wolf, they have pointed ears and brown almond-shaped eyes. Height and Weight A German Shepherd can weigh around lb male and lb female. Males stand at around inches and females between inches. So depending on age, sex, diet, and genetics, the German Shepherd Wolf mix can weigh anywhere from lbs. Colors Pups can be found in a number of colors as the classic German Shepherd has 11 different official colors, with the most common being black and tan. But they can also have colors such as sable, black, white, and gray. Wolves can be mottled gray in color, but occasionally can be nearly pure white, red, brown, or even black. Coat German Shepherds have a thick double coat that is medium length. They have a dense outer coat with straight hair that lies close to the body. They have short undercoats and long, coarse outer coats. The GSD and Wolves have very similar coats, so it is fairly likely that their mix will have a double coat and medium-length fur. They will also shed annually, getting rid of their winter coat when the days become warmer. It is safe to say that this crossbreed should not be kept in warmer climates. German Shepherd Wolf Mix Personality and Temperament Both German Shepherds and Wolves have very different personalities, so it can be difficult to predict what their mix will be like. But we will do our best below to explain some behaviors which should be expected. Wolves are pack animals, meaning they are very protective and loyal to their family — they will do anything to protect their kin. They are den-dwelling animals, meaning that your mix is likely to dig anywhere they want. Being wild animals, Wolves are reserved when it comes to unfamiliar surroundings, people, and inanimate objects. They may be very protective but will cower at the sight of strangers. It should be said that the German Shepherd Wolf will be unpredictable in social situations, they can become aggressive when fearful. This can be avoided by giving them lots of socialization as a young pup. They are also very curious and will try to escape whenever opportunity strikes, so make sure to keep your backyard securely fenced. This hybrid will have a strong prey drive, as the GSD was bred to herd livestock and the wolf is a natural predator, so your Wolfdog mix will chase anything and everything that moves. They are also prone to howling as this is how they communicate in a pack. This is not a dog that should be living with small children. This dog should be kept by experienced keepers who are firm and disciplined with their pooch. If they favor their German Shepherd parentage, they will be eager to please dog training will be easy. Either way, you should be training them with positive reinforcement. Give them rewards when they follow your command or when they stop unwanted behavior. Many people believe that dominance training is the way forward with this dog as wolves are pack animals, but studies show that this training method leads to further aggression and reduces the quality of your relationship with your doggy friend. This is a dog for someone who has experience training strong-willed dogs before — you need to be firm and consistent. Do not let them think they are the boss of you. Socializing a dog like this is very important as the wolf can be reserved and unpredictable. Make sure to socialize them with a range of people and different situations. Mental stimulation is very important if you do not want your Wolfdog to get bored and chew everything in sight. You can give them lots of toys and play with them, playtime can decrease their stress levels and make them more confident. Caring for a German Shepherd Wolf Mix Owning a German Shepherd Wolf mix is not something you should take lightly, there are specific laws on owning Wolfdogs, so you should check your state regulations. This cross breed needs an owner who is experienced in training difficult dogs that need lots of attention and care. You will also need a large backyard which has very secure fencing. You should not own a Wolfdog in heavily populated areas, as they have a habit of howling a lot. There are many other responsibilities that you will have when owning this hybrid so keep reading to learn more… Exercise Requirements This is a very energetic dog, as wolves can travel up to 30 miles a day. They will need around hours of exercise each day to keep fit and healthy. Not getting their exercise will result in them destroying your furniture and anything else they can bite. It is also recommended to let them roam around in a fenced backyard, so they can play, dig and explore. You should not take your Wolfdog to dog parks and make sure to keep them on a leash and harness. They will need regular brushing to avoid matting and tangles, and more when shedding season comes along. Do not bathe this dog too much as it can strip away the natural oils that make the coat healthy and shiny. As with every dog, dental hygiene is important so brush their teeth once a week. You should also cut their nails, to avoid overgrowth and splitting. Feeding and Diet Deciding what to feed your Wolfdog is not an exact science, but you should be feeding your dog a diet rich in protein. Avoid buying traditional store-bought dog food as these are rich in carbohydrates and artificial ingredients. You will need to do research into what type of meat-based diets you would prefer your dog to eat. Be mindful of how much you are feeding your dog, too much food can lead to obesity. Keep an eye on their weight by using a body condition score. Known Health Problems Wolfdogs are generally healthy animals, but they are still prone to certain health issues. Having pet insurance could save you from the headache of going to the vets with reimbursement for every vet bill from now on! The German Shepherd resembles a wolf in appearance, to begin with, so you can count on the hybrid to be large, with a long face, thick coat and pointed ears. The coat of the Wolfshepherd can be gray, sable, white, black, or a mixture of these colors. It will most likely inherit the thick fur that is standard for both parents and is known to shed heavily. You can take a closer look at this Wolfdog mix in the video. Is a Wolf Shepherd dangerous? If a Wolfdog is uncomfortable, it can attack out of defense. This has earned them a reputation for being dangerous and they are banned in several US states. Wolves build dens and roam frequently. They also have a strong pack and predatory instincts. These traits translate into destructive behavior for the Wolfdog, such as digging holes in the garden and chewing up wooden furniture. They also may urinate more frequently than other dog breeds to mark their territory. It takes one who is passionate and willing to devote time and energy to a German Shepherd Wolf dog. Because of its unpredictable nature, it is advised that this crossbreed should not be left alone around other pets and especially children. Black German Shepherd Wolf mixes in particular, are known for being less tolerant towards children. They have been known to react by biting and shaking. This is a natural response of the Black GSD when correcting puppy behavior. With rigorous training, a Wolfdog makes a protective and loyal companion. They are strong, intelligent, playful, and affectionate towards family. Are Wolf German Shepherd Mix health issues common? As we mentioned above the life expectancy of a German Shepherd Wolf Mix is up to 14 or even .However, the German Shepherd breed is vulnerable to serious genetic diseases that can get passed down to this particular Wolfdog hybrid. Hip Dysplasia : A painful hip joint deformity that causes loss of mobility and lameness. Elbow Dysplasia: A joint deformity that affects the elbows and can cause pain and loss of mobility. Bloat: A build-up of gas in the stomach that can cause it to twist and lead to shock or even death. Cancer: Abnormal cell growth that can spread throughout the body. Feeding time Since the Wolfshepherd is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia , it is important to keep her on a strict feeding regime to avoid obesity. Aim for 2 to 3 cups of meat-based dog food divided between meals each day. Remember that every dog has different health needs. Exercise time The German Shepherd Wolf hybrid needs daily activity to thwart destructive behavior and keep physically fit. A house with a large fenced-in yard is the most suitable environment for this crossbreed. They need room to stretch their legs and roam. If you live in an apartment, you might want to consider a smaller dog breed or perhaps a dog that resembles a wolf. Not only is an apartment too small a space, but this mix prefers to spend time outdoors, like its Wolf parent. Playing fetch with a ball or tugging games can help get that chewing habit under control. Can you train a Wolf Shepherd? This is the only way to lessen the inclination towards aloofness, fear, and an unpredictable temperament. Training needs to start at the puppy stage to be effective. Be prepared, because Wolfdogs are not easy to train and require time, patience, and consistency. Dominance is one of the main German Shepherd Wolf mix characteristics that you will have to focus on. As the owner, you must be confident and assert that you are the leader of the pack. If attention wanes during a game or your Wolfdog decides to ignore commands, stay positive yet firm and above all — do not let them dominate you. Socialization is key to helping a Wolfdog accept other pets in the household. Walks around the park can help, but always keep your pup on a leash. Supervise them when other dogs are present. When searching for reputable German Shepherd Wolf mix breeders, look for someone that is open to you visiting and will provide health clearances. They should be able to answer questions about the parents, especially regarding medical history. This results in a high number of them being left at rescue shelters. Here are 3 Wolfdog rescues where you can look for a German Shepherd Wolf mix along with other Wolfdogs. Many places have laws against owning any sort of wolf mix, including a German Shepherd-Worf hybrid. This is because, unlike dogs, wolves are completely wild animals, and while they can be domesticated to a certain extent, that wild streak is likely to live on. It just means that in extreme circumstances, these dogs are likely to be less predictable than those without wolf DNA inside them. The appeal is undeniable, but you still need to do your homework before adding one to your pack. Most experts would contend that a wolf mix is one with a purebred wolf in its bloodline within four or five generations. They act just like canine puppies for the most part. However, once they start to grow up, the wolf-like tendencies begin to emerge. They can start slowly in adolescence before becoming extremely apparent in adulthood. Many people have fallen in love with a wolf mix puppy, thinking that it has the features of a wolf but the sweetness of a dog. That may be true in some cases, but in others, the animal grew up to be quite a fearsome pet indeed. They Can Be Quite Unpredictable You would think that a wolf mix would be proud and fearless, never backing down from anyone or anything. The fact of the matter is that while these dogs can certainly be ferocious, they also tend to be extremely shy and skittish. Wolves are scared of people and for good reason, sadly. That means that while your German Shepherd Wolf mix would readily sacrifice their own lives to protect their family, they usually also prefer to cower and hide when strangers arrive. That can lead to dangerous situations, especially with children. If you push these dogs past their breaking point, the wolf will eventually come out — and that can have tragic results. Some of these animals take after their canine parents, while others favor their wolf lineage. Generally speaking, though, you can expect your German Shepherd Wolf mix to be fiercely loyal and protective of their families yet wary of outsiders. Due to the wolf in them, these dogs tend to be more pack-driven than other pups. You may even want to give them a canine companion, although this can have its own set of challenges. That intelligence makes them capable escape artists, though. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Little ones will often push a pet too far, and you never know when the wolf will come out. If you do bring one of these animals into a home with little kids, never leave them unsupervised. You should also teach your kids how to deal with the dog, making sure they know not to mess with their food or toys or abuse them in any way. Older kids may be able to get along with them, though, so if your children are a little more mature, you might be able to bring one of these dogs home without issue. All of this assumes that you know how to handle one of these animals, of course. They get lonely easily and may become depressed if left alone for long periods of time. However, they may be prone to aggression with other dogs as well. Pack culture is a much bigger deal for wolves than for dogs, so your mix may be prone to dominance. Other pets, however, are likely a bad idea. Cats and smaller animals will most likely be seen as food rather than friends, so you should keep your German Shepherd Wolf mix as far away from them as possible. All of this also means that you need to be absolutely certain that your mix is kept on a secure leash and collar or harness during walks. You may not feel up to the task once you realize how much is involved with raising one of these animals. That will affect how much they eat, but you can expect them to have a healthy appetite regardless. These are energetic pups, so they need as much long-lasting energy as they can get. Avoid problematic ingredients like soy, wheat, corn, or animal by-products, as these can make your dog fat without giving them much in the way of nutrition. Many dogs have trouble processing these ingredients as well. In addition to feeding them a proper diet, you should exercise strict portion control and never allow them to free-feed. As a result, expect to provide your pet with plenty of exercises. They can easily destroy your entire lawn if not properly tuckered out. Long walks are a good idea, but you should also play fetch or something that requires more energy every day. Just be careful not to make them run and jump too much, as it puts quite a bit of strain on their spines. Mental stimulation is equally important. You can give them puzzle toys, play hide-and-seek, or put them through extensive training sessions. They respond best to positive reinforcement, so try to convince them to cooperate by offering them treats or affection. The problem with this is that eventually, those emotions will boil over. That could lead to unpleasant consequences for you. The shedding becomes extreme twice a year when the dogs blow their coats. You should only need to bathe them if they get visibly dirty, but you will need to brush their teeth and trim their claws regularly. Be sure to keep their ears clean as well, as they can be prone to infection. This reduces the risk of spinal issues later in life. Still, there are a few things to be aware of. Minor Conditions. Serious applicants only. Potential homes will be vetted for proper placement. Every breed has different requirements, whether the space they must have or the amount of exercise they need. If you are not certain yet, check out our essential Wolfdog breed info to find out everything about the Wolfdog. How to find Wolfdog puppies for sale? When buying a puppy, it is important to consider not only the pet but also the breeder. Because a responsible breeder will ensure their dogs come from the strongest bloodlines and have the best start to life. Ask about the health and temperament of their Wolfdog pups as well as their living environment. But also find out about the breeder's practices and commitments. A good breeder will be happy to answer everything before you decide. After all, they will want to ensure that their dog goes to a good home. When you have done your research and got all the info you need, you can then choose the right breeder with confidence. To help ensure you choose a responsible breeder, all the Wolfdog kennels you see listed here are verified by Pets4You. You will also find that the best breeders will provide a guarantee with their dog. This information, and more, is available on the breeder's website within Pets4You. Browse through our dog breeder directory with complete breeder profiles and current puppies for sale to find your dream dog. Disclaimer It is the duty of every person that is considering buying a puppy or dog to confirm all the information provided to them by the breeder is accurate. Pets4You makes no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the condition of any dogs offered for sale, the standards or practices of any breeder, the quality of their canines, or the accuracy of any information contained within our site. Pets4You does not endorse, recommend, or guarantee a particular kennel, breeder or dogs listed on the Pets4You website. For Buyers. Prone to shedding. Lifespan: 12 - 14 years. They can have several health issues including joint problems and cancer. No - definitely not recommended for families with young kids. Unpredictable temperaments. Although GSDs are easily trainable, wolves are wild animals. These hybrids should be reserved for very experienced dog owners. They need a ton of exercise, which is easier said than done. Once they reach a certain age and level of strength, walking your wolfdog in public can be difficult. In most places in the United States, it is illegal to own a wild animal like a wolf unless you have a special and expensive wildlife permit. GSD-wolf mixes walk a tightrope between being considered wild animals or domestic pets. Because of the wolf parent or grandparent, the law considers the resulting mix not reliably domesticated, and thus prone to acting dangerously. Therefore, if you want a wolf-dog mix, you may have to do a lot of research to even find a place in the world that will let you do so. Some proponents of wolf-dog mixes claim that some dog breeds have more grey wolf parent DNA than other dog breeds. If these breeds are allowed, then so should GSD and wolf mixes. According to Science Trends. These breeds include the Finnish Spitz, the Shar-Pei, the Siberian Husky another breed often crossed with wolves , and the Greenland dog. However, the ancestors of these breeds branched off from wolves thousands of years ago, and not simply one or two generations ago. Over one hundred years ago, German shepherds were popularly called Alsatian Wolf Dogs, since they were bred in the Alsace region of what is now France and looked like wolves. However, no wolves were actually involved in creating German Shepherd mixes. Other breeds mistakenly thought to have wolves in their recent ancestry include Siberian Huskies and the Alaskan Malamute. Although descended from wolves, the last wolf in their pedigree was thousands of years ago. Even puppies in the same litter can act in vastly different ways. Wolves tend to ignore people and do what they want. Any wolf-dog mix will be prone to unpredictable behavior at times, and will tend to act more like a wolf than a dog. Wolves are intensely territorial creatures. They attack any predator in their home range, including wolves not in their packs. This behavior has convinced some people that GSD-wolf mixes make better guard dogs than dogs. This, however, is a myth. According to the International Wolf Center, dogs have been bred for thousands of years to bark when intruders appear. Wolves on the other hand stay silent. This is because large dogs age faster than small dogs. Why this happens in dogs and not other species is not known. The future health of a wolf mix is harder to predict than the health of a purebred dog. After decades of study, it is now known what health problems certain breeds are prone to. Because German Shepherd — wolf hybrids are a genetic toss of the dice, you have no way of knowing what health problems these animals will be prone to. A wolf mix needs to be well-behaved in order to be treated for an illness, but the mix may even be too dangerous to treat. Never assume that all vets will be willing to take in a German shepherd wolf mix as a patient. All the vets in your area may refuse to work on such an animal, and this is not due to prejudice against wolves. Although all vets are trained to help domestic animals like dogs, very few are trained in the care of exotics. One problematic area for vets and exotic animal owners is that of vaccination. Rabies vaccines are crucial for dog owners. Because of the threat of rabies and the problems of the rabies vaccine working on wolf-dogs, any wolf-dog that shows signs of rabies or has been exposed to a rabid animal needs to be euthanized. The two most common medical problems with any wolf-dog mix are complications from being overweight and hip dysplasia. Being overweight can also contribute to hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is very common in German shepherds and in most large dog breeds. Hip dysplasia symptoms like limping start when the dog is young, and gets worse over time if left untreated. This is a very painful and chronic condition that may require surgery to treat. Depending on the genetic roll of the dice, a GSD wolf puppy may be looking at a very short, unhealthy life. GSDs are also prone to a deadly and incurable condition called degenerative myelopathy that hits GSDs seven years of age and older. However, this can become quite complicated since wolf-dogs cannot be walked and played with like normal dogs. Puppies may be able to walk on a leash in the beginning. Sadly, a lot of wolf-dog hybrids wind up staying permanently in an outdoor pen because they cannot be walked or trained. Despite the endless unknowns surrounding a GSD wolf mix, their size is actually predictable. The smallest hybrids will be as small as a GSD — roughly 49 pounds. The largest will be about pounds, which is the size of a large male Mackenzie Valley wolf, the largest known wolf species. As is common in most wolf species and dog breeds, females tend to be smaller. GSDs are as tall as small wolves, but wolves can actually reach heights of 34 inches tall at the shoulders. GSD wolf mixes come in a wide variety of colors, but most have two or even three tones to their coats. Common two-toned colors include black and tan, grey and white, silver and white, brown and grey, and tan and grey. Puppies of dogs, wolf-dog mixes, and even wolves can be trained and easily handled. However, once the wolf-dog hybrid becomes physically and sexually mature, all bets are off. Just when a GSD wolf mix matures differs from puppy to puppy. Dogs mature a lot faster than wolves. A German shepherd wolf mix could mature as early as six months, when a GSD matures, or as late as four years old when a wolf typically matures. However, these are not wolves. However, if you want an animal that obeys commands all the time, why not just save yourself the time and money, and go with a dog? They also ask people for affection. They have to be taught to hunt by their older pack-mates. They grow accustomed to being given food at predictable times. All wolf hybrids, including GSD wolf mixes, have severely bitten or attacked people and pets in the United States. Wolf-hybrids often attack children more than adults because children make noises resembling small prey animals. More often, wolf-dog mixes will attack other pets than people. These are very territorial animals. If any other animal is perceived as being on their turf, a GSD wolf mix may not only attack but kill a dog, cat, or other animal. Not only will you have to pay restitution and possible court costs, but depending on your local laws, your GSD wolf mix may be confiscated and euthanized. Your chances of appeal are very small, and will involve significant legal expenses. The only known factors are that this is a large animal with the ability to inflict serious damage on pets, livestock, wildlife, and people, especially children. You may have to keep the animal in a pen for the rest of its life. You may never be able to find a vet willing to look after the GSD wolf mix. You may have laws banning the ownership of such an animal where you live. A GSD wolf mix puppy or adult costs thousands of dollars. You will need plenty of land, fencing, and legal advice in order to keep it. When it comes to any wolf-dog mix, leave it alone. Get one of the safer German Shepherd mixes instead. German Shepherd wolf mix breeds are one of the biggest dogs you can get, averaging to around 24 inches tall. In terms of weight, they average to around 60 lbs heavy when they are fully grown. While this is slightly smaller than the average German Shepherd, this is still large for a dog. Remember, their personality will make them seem even larger than they physically are. This mix breed is highly unpredictable. This means that while German Shepherds are generally bigger than the wolf mix breed, they are much more obedient. A larger and more obedient German Shepherd will seem much smaller than a GSD wolf mix that has an unpredictable and potentially dangerous temperament. Even though GSD wolf mix breeds might grow to be slightly smaller than a regular German Shepherd, the average lifespan of both is the same. They are both considered medium-large breeds, which means that they can come with a variety of health issues including joint problems and cancer. What percentage of German Shepherds are wolf? Technically speaking, every dog derives from wolves. They were never bred with wolves. It all depends on the genetics of the German Shepherd, as some might have come from a background that bred wolves into the family. Instead, German Shepherds descend from the Canidae biological family in the same way as other domestic dogs do. This biological family includes wolves, foxes, and dingoes. Other breeds of dogs like Siberian Huskies and Finnish Spitz are more closely related to wolves as their ancestors had been wolves for thousands of years. How can you tell if your German Shepherd is part wolf? German Shepherds were never bred with wolves when the breed was standardized in Germany in the s, which means that there is no element of wolf in their DNA. Still, they are part of the Canidae family in the same way as other domesticated dogs are. However, you can still commit to a genetic test to see if your German Shepherd has come from a family that attempted to breed a wolf into the genetic line. Also, when buying or adopting your GSD, the seller should make you aware of if the dog is part wolf.
It was only in the mid to late s when the first Golden Retrievers appeared in Scotland. It took 50 years to improve the breed and achieve perfection. Usually, they weigh from 55 to 75 pounds. Their bulky body is covered in a soft coat that comes in two layers. The outer coat is dense and has water-repelling traits; a result of breeding from the past. You see, Golden Retrievers were once used to help during hunting trips in order to retrieve prey. They love retrieving prey more than anything in the world! This preference has clung up to now. Golden Retrievers come in other coat colors besides their golden option. The coat of these dogs ranges from light shades to creams, dark golden, and pure golden. Golden Retrievers are also stunning on the inside. These dogs are known for their extremely friendly character and cheerful behavior. Even as adults, Golden Retrievers act like happy puppies. I know other dog breeds like Rottweilers or German Shepherds make better guard dogs, but Goldens are still very much capable of protecting their families. Golden Retrievers are active doggos. Back in the day, they were used for hunting and retrieving. Goldens need to waste their energy by the end of the day or they will become restless. Besides being so active, Goldens are also known to be mellow and docile. Having an emotional support animal has become quite popular lately, and Golden Retrievers are on the top of the popularity ladder. Goldens are generally healthy. They can live from 10 to 12 years without any major problems. Still, this dog breed is prone to some health issues such as hip dysplasia, bloat, PRA, cataracts, and sadly, cancer. Golden Retrievers are, sadly, severely prone to cancers. I know this is a surprise for most of you. Yes, Golden Retrievers come in three subtypes. The biggest difference is in the size of the dogs. For example, Canadian Goldens are usually taller than the other two, almost up to two inches. But, they have thin hair and a short, darker coat… unlike their American and English counterparts American Golden Retrievers usually come in lighter coat shades, while their triangular eyes are always dark in color. Lastly, English Golden Retrievers are bigger than other members of the breed. British Goldens fashion a lovely long, feathered coat in cream shades. Their forehead is also wide. Such a large head makes these Golden Retrievers appear bigger in size and more dominant. Besides the obvious difference in head size, blockhead Golden Retrievers can also be spotted because of their long fur. They only fashion a bit longer fur than other Goldies. All of the three listed blockhead Golden Retrievers can compete in dog shows , but they must be bred and raised up to the breed standards and have a pedigree. The judges take into consideration a bunch of factors that will either disqualify a dog or make him a champion. On average, male blockhead Goldens weigh from 65 to 75 pounds. Golden Retriever girls should weigh from 50 to 65 pounds. Males are always taller than females, at 23 to 24 inches at the withers. Goldie girls are .All dogs should have a symmetrical body and a lovely appearance. Their eyes should be deep set, the muzzle is supposed to be straight, while the ears are short and set above the eyes. As for the colors, the eyes are mostly deep brown, while the nose can be black or deep brown, too. Well-trained dogs always do better. Trust me, even the tiniest factor can judge against your Goldie. By looking at its parents, we can tell whether they will be big or small once they grow up. This process is a long one and it sometimes takes 12 months for the signature head shape to come in. Even if you pick out the most reputable breeder , no one is there to blame. This is only a matter of fortune. There is an unwritten rule that light-colored Goldens or Blondies are more prone to having a blockhead. Raising a blockhead Golden Retriever is no different than raising a regular Golden. The answer to this question is a pretty obvious one. This results in either a wider head with rounder eyes as with blockheads or a narrow or wedge-shaped head with slender heads. Of course, the price can go lower depending on what your chosen breeder includes in it. The average price of a blockhead Golden Retriever in the States is on the higher end of the scale. And, this is only the initial price! Keep in mind that dogs need all sorts of goodies like toys, dog beds, food and water bowls, grooming tools, etc. But, the good news is that only the first year with your blockhead pup should be a rough one. After that, the cost should significantly drop. Find other, replacement puppies if this one turns out to be a slender head and you prefer only the other type. How incredible is that? Many people are still unaware of how severe bruises are, especially with dogs. I know… I was the same. I mean, what can a little bruise on my head do? Not much, right? Being a dog expert myself, I immediately figured out the importance of the case when a dog owner rushed in with a puppy featuring facial bruises. Facial trauma or bruises can occur for many reasons. And, they play roughly with littermates and parents. No wonder some of them end up with bruises. I want to underline that every bruise or head trauma should be consulted with your vet, especially if it was a contact with a bigger dog. The most critical areas to get facial trauma are the jawline and the forehead. Golden Retrievers, especially blockhead Goldies, are very susceptible to bruises. These pups are fun, quirky, and truly unique. Many dog breeds have signature traits that set them apart from other pups. Blockhead Goldens are known for being a tad different than regular Goldens. Did you know that the Golden Retriever dog breed is one of those breeds that is very susceptible to cancers of all kinds? Well, they do have an exception in the form of blockhead Golden Retrievers. Blockheads are less prone to cancers. We even have studies confirming this statement! Also, as an unwritten rule, blockheads tend to live longer than other Goldens. All Golden Retrievers, especially blockheads are very susceptible to obesity. Seriously, these pups will eat anything that comes their way. Control their diet, how much, and what they eat. Another curiosity about blockhead Golden Retrievers is that they only come in light cream colors. We already know that! So, how do breeders and dog owners manage to register such dogs and enter them in conformation shows? Think of it as a loophole in show dogs law. Final Words The mystery is solved! A blockhead Golden Retriever is nothing more than a standard Goldie with a broad head. I know some of you have thought that this is a completely new type of Golden Retriever. Blockhead Golden Retrievers are simply too cute to handle! And, their wide blockhead makes even more room for the dog to think: Man, I love my hooman! Read Next:. All of the famous loving and gentle characteristics of other Goldens are found within the Block Head Golden Retriever. As a matter of fact, Block Head Golden Retrievers can be born within the same litter as Goldens with more wedge-shaped heads. These British Goldens usually have a much lighter cream-colored coat than when compared in American or Canadian Golden Retrievers. Also, they tend to have longer more feathery coats as well. However, the biggest differences found within these pups lie with their physical builds. The Block Head Golden Retriever has a much broader head than other retrievers. Along with that, their eyes are often much rounder and darker than other Goldens whose eyes tend to be more almond shape and lighter in color. Block Head Golden Retrievers are less prone to cancer. In a study on Golden Retrievers, English Golden Retrievers were shown to be affected by cancer at a .Studies have also shown that this sub-breed live longer lives than other types of Golden Retriever. The only colors of Golden Retriever that are recognized by the American Kennel Club are light golden, golden, and dark golden. Cream-colored or white Golden Retrievers are not certified colors. Block Head Golden Retrievers are more commonly found among white and cream-colored retrievers. Block Head Golden Retrievers are walking garbage cans! Not to say that they smell bad, but these dogs will eat anything and everything. Do not be fooled by their wily charm and lovable face. As a matter of fact, you may spend your whole life looking and not find a single one. They are amongst the gentlest and kindest souls of any living creature on the planet. Not only that, but they are exceptionally loyal and faithful dogs who live to make their masters and families happy. They are also very intelligent dogs. Normally, intelligence and stubbornness go hand-in-hand when it comes to dogs. However, such is not the case with the Block Head Golden Retriever. Their desire to please overrides the usual stubborn urges. In turn, Goldens are very easy to train. They can also be trained to help out elderly individuals or other family members with disabilities. We cannot recommend this dog enough when it comes to finding the perfect dog for any family situation. To the Block Head Golden Retriever, other pets are just playmates and family members. However, just like any breed, there are some key things to note when properly raising one. Seldom will you find a picky eater among this bunch. Being larger dogs, cups of high-quality food a day should be more than sufficient. And we recommend spacing out their feedings as well instead of leaving constant food in their bowls. They might not have the full-on energy of a Husky or Australian Cattle Dog , but they definitely love to play. A good solid hour of play each day will satisfy their exercise requirements. These dogs are also known for their puppy-like personality even late into their twilight years. To minimize their shedding, you should brush your Golden fully times a week with a slicker brush. However, there a few conditions that the breed is more prone to than others. Hip and elbow dysplasia are the two biggest areas of concern for these dogs. This more commonly found in larger dogs. This can lead to arthritis and other problems down the road. These are inheritable genetic conditions as well. So, if your Golden is experiencing these conditions, you should avoid breeding them. Another big cause of concern for this breed in particular is gastric dilation-volvulus—more commonly known as bloat. If you realize your pup eats too much too fast, just make sure they get a good rest or nap immediately afterward before letting them run off and play. Minor Conditions. A Block Head Golden Retriever is a specific type of Golden Retriever that is recognized by their blocky or square-shaped heads. Temperament A Blockhead Golden Retriever is known to be friendly , affectionate, and loyal. They are great with children and make excellent family pets. They are also intelligent and are dogs that train well, which makes them a popular choice for service dogs for people with disabilities or emotional support animals. Finally, if you are looking for a show dog, then a Blockheaded Golden is the one for you as their broad skull and square-shaped heads help them stand out during show competition. Health Concerns A Blockhead Golden is prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and various eye problems. To avoid these kinds of health problems, try to feed you pup a fresh food diet and offer healthy treats like peanut butter , bananas or blueberries as an alternative to high-fat, high-sugar treats that can contribute to these issues. Check their lineage: Make sure that the puppy comes from a reputable breeder who specializes in Blockhead Golden Retrievers and abides by breeding standards. Observe their body structure: These puppies are typically have a stockier build and thicker bones compared to other Golden Retriever puppies. Notice their coat thickness: Blockhead Golden Retriever puppies often have thicker and longer fur compared to other Golden puppies. As a general guide, here are some things to look out for: Unwilling To Provide Health Clearances Avoid breeders who are unwilling to provide health clearances for their breeding dogs. These clearances should include hip and elbow evaluations, as well as certification that the dog is free of hereditary eye diseases. This could indicate that they have something to hide or that they are running a puppy mill operation. These traits are not recognized by the American Kennel Club and could indicate that the breeder is more interested in making a profit than producing healthy, high-quality puppies. Breeders Focused on Sales Avoid breeders who seem more interested in making a sale than ensuring that their puppies are going to good homes or who focus on many different dog breeds. A reputable breeder will ask you plenty of questions about your lifestyle and living situation to make sure that you are a good fit for one of their puppies. Breeders with Excessive Litter Be cautious of breeders who have a large number of litters available at any given time or who always seem to have puppies available. This could indicate that they are running a puppy mill operation or that they are breeding their dogs too frequently, which can lead to health problems for the mother and her puppies. By being aware of these red flags, you can help ensure that you find a reputable and responsible breeder who will provide you with a healthy and happy puppy. Their coat color is also typically lighter and less dense than a Block Headed Golden Retriever. They are intelligent and easy to train, making them great family pets. They are also energetic and love to play, so they require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Health Concerns Slender Head Golden are also prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems. Make sure to look at the Golden Retriever Club of America directory for a list of reputable breeders. American vs. They are often used for hunting and retrieving due to their athleticism and endurance. American Golden Retrievers American Golden Retrievers are lankier and less stocky than British Retrievers, with a dense, water-repellent coat in shades of gold and moderate feathering. They are often used as therapy dogs, guide dogs, and search and rescue dogs due to their high energy and eagerness to please. They are typically heavier with shorter legs and tail and a slightly deeper chest. They are known for their calm and gentle temperament, making them great family pets. Again, make sure to look at the Golden Retriever Club of America directory for a list of reputable breeders and put in the time researching and choose a breeder who specializes in the subtype that best suits your needs. It will be worth it in the long run! What are the best toys for Block Head Golden Retrievers? Toys that allow for interactive play are are great options for them and will keep them engaged and stimulated. Share this:. Active families, service roles, therapy, hunting, companionship Temperament: Loyal, attentive, affectionate, active These dogs have lustrous golden coats and kind features that make them look like puppies for much longer than many other breeds. However, some types of Goldies are more popular than others. Here, we discuss the origin and history of the Blockhead Golden Retriever and explain why they are so beloved among enthusiasts and potential owners alike. 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 differences between these varieties are purely physical such as the color and thickness of their coat and will not affect their temperament or overall health. Also, there are two main types among these different varieties: the Blockhead and Slender-Head. However, historians have been unsure about the origins and timeline of Golden Retrievers for decades. Lord Tweedmouth probably improved the early Goldens by crossing them with Setters. How Blockhead Golden Retrievers Gained Popularity Right from the start, Golden Retrievers have been first-rate workers, regardless of the variety or shape of their heads. They were first used as hunting dogs, but they were able to perform many other tasks due to their great versatility. Their docility and calm, sensible demeanor have made them useful in many other areas of activity, such as tracking, search and rescue, obedience competitions, shows, and guide and assistance dogs. Since the s, their popularity has steadily grown, and they have become one of the most popular and beloved dog breeds in America. Their loyalty, intelligence, desire to please, and ease of training are just a few of the many personality traits that make them so beloved and unique. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in and the Canadian Kennel Club in , and the first Goldens were registered in France in and Australia in .Finally, the first GRCA was founded in .Although much higher than the average for other breeds, this percentage is significantly lower than that seen in North American Goldens. Image Credit: Tatyana Vyc, Shutterstock 2. Blockhead Golden Retriever Puppies Are Hard to Identify It is quite easy to recognize this type of Golden Retriever when they are adults, but it is almost impossible to identify them when they are still small puppies. Indeed, you may have no idea that you have a Blockhead Goldie until your pup has finished growing and their head has reached their final shape. There are many reasons that you may want to own a Blockhead Golden Retriever besides their attractive looks. First, Golden Retrievers are known for being loyal and affectionate, and Blockhead Goldies are no different. They love to be around people and will often follow you around the house just to be near you. Golden Retrievers are also highly intelligent and easy to train. This makes them ideal for families with children who want to teach their kids responsibility through caring for a pet. Goldens can be used as service dogs and are often trained to assist those who have hearing or mobility issues. In short, Blockhead Golden Retrievers are known for their loving, friendly, and compassionate nature. They can make wonderful family pets and great companions for seniors or people with special needs. Conclusion The origin and history of Blockhead Golden Retrievers are the same as those of standard Goldies, as this breed is nothing more than a type of Golden Retriever with a larger head! However, although they make wonderful companions , this dog is difficult to identify when they are still puppies. Blockhead vs. Learn more. If it is your first time getting a Golden retriever, you may be overwhelmed with the multiple options in the market. No doubt, this breed comes with a number of varieties that can leave you confused about what to pick. Should you go for the American, Canadian, or British Golden retriever? Should the puppy be fluffy or non-fluffy? How about blockhead versus slender head varieties? In this guide, we will touch on the last part. We will tell you all you need to know about block head vs slender head Golden retrievers. Hopefully, this will help you make an informed choice when getting a puppy. Appearance A. The fur is also longer than his counterparts. This type is mostly common with English and British Golden retrievers. The latter usually features a lighter cream color than the former and has a more feathery coat as well. Apart from having a large block head and long fur, block goldies also have eyes that are darker and rounder than their peers with light almond-shaped eyes. While all Block head Golden retrievers look somewhat alike, there can be distinct characteristics based on the type. For instance, a British block head Goldie appears to be smaller compared to the Canadian version. The former also has lighter fur than the latter. American block heads are more muscular than British and Canadian varieties. They also come with darker coats and lighter eyes. Besides the size, different block head Goldies have different lengths of fur depending on the type. Ideally, Canadian goldies have shorter fur than American and British varieties. Also, the British types have prominent skulls and unique bone structures and thus are often block heads rather than narrow heads. Slender Head Golden Retrievers Slender head golden retrievers have narrower heads than block heads. You can also call them wedge-shaped-headed Goldies. The shape and size of head have everything to do with the bone structure of the skull. The bones align in a way that the head assumes a narrow shape rather than a square one. Slender head goldies also have shorter fur than block head retrievers. Most of them belong to the American and Canadian golden retriever types. British slender heads are very rare. Golden retriever adults are easy to tell apart. Just look at the shape and size of the head and you can instantly tell whether you are staring at a block head or a slender head Goldie. However, when they are puppies, it can be hard to differentiate between the two. As a matter of fact, most owners cannot tell whether their puppy is a block head or a slender head until they are several months old. As a puppy, the head-defining attributes are barely noticeable. To complicate things further, one litter can have both block head and slender head golden retrievers. Of course, if two block head parents have a litter, there is a high chance that all the puppies in the litter will look like mummy and daddy. On the other hand, if one parent has a block head while the other one has a slender head, the litter may consist of puppies of both varieties. Because it is very hard to distinguish a block head puppy from a slender head, you have to be careful when selecting the best puppy to bring home. It is in your best interest to talk to the breeder and ask them about the genealogy report of the litter. Obviously, if you are only interested in having a Golden retriever puppy of any type, you can skip the entire step altogether. Can Both Be Show Dogs? Both block and slender head goldies look very cute. However, if you want to have your dog participate in the show ring, you will be forced to get the block head variety. The large, square head of the block head is preferred over the narrow head or a slender goldie. The breed requirement for a show dog is a large, block head, deep-set eyes, straight muzzles, healthy teeth, and wide faces. The eyes should be dark or medium-dark brown and the nose brown or black. Other things include a symmetrical body, average length, friendly personality, the ability to listen to commands, and a pleasant facial expression. This means that not all block heads are automatically accepted as show dogs. Personality Golden retrievers, in general, have sweet temperaments. They are eager to please, smart, loyal, and non-aggressive. If you have kids, they will enjoy having a Goldie at home. He is playful while still being gentle, especially around kids. The best thing about them is that they love every member of the family and will create a special bond with every last one of them. Whether you want to adopt a block or a slender golden retriever, you will have a dog with all the qualities of the Golden retriever. They only look different physically but everything else is the same. Expect a dog that is smart, brave, and non-aggressive. He would much rather be submissive than aggressive. Both have lots of fur on their coats that shed very heavily. Perhaps the only difference is that the block head has longer fur, meaning he needs frequent grooming than the slender type with shorter fur on his coat. The stakes are higher if you are looking to have a show dog. His care and grooming needs will be higher than your average pet. He needs to maintain a certain weight and behavior, look a certain way, and be in good health always. Prepare to spend huge sums of money on this. Related Posts:. Above all, we are a top Golden retriever Breeder and we produce purebred AKC block head Golden retriever puppies for sale. Thus, block headed golden retriever and blockhead golden retriever puppies. Moreover, blocky head golden retriever, golden retriever block head, block head golden retriever breeders, and blockhead golden retriever breeders. Furthermore, upcoming golden retriever litters, adorable golden retriever puppies for sale, and amica golden retrievers. Nevertheless, we also have block head golden retrievers, block head golden retriever, golden retriever blockhead puppies, and block headed golden retriever. Furthermore, blockhead golden retriever puppies, blocky head golden retriever, and golden retriever block head. Meanwhile, block head golden retriever breeders, blockhead golden retriever breeders, and golden retriever blocky head are also available. In addition, dark golden retriever for sale, and dark golden retriever puppies for sale. And you are concerned about handing over money to a con artist or want to be sure the puppy is bred and raised with the love and care it needs, not in a puppy mill or local pet store. However, families choose to adopt from us due to our easy adoption process, high standards for breeders, chance to personally meet their new puppies where they are raised, and the fact that we have the cutest Golden Retriever puppies you have ever seen. Moreover, who can say? To sum up, you might just come across the Golden retriever puppy of your dreams. Furthermore, explore our top bloodline of Golden Retrievers for sale nearby and find your new best friend right away! As a result, here you will discover the irresistible puppies from the blockhead Golden Retriever breeder Mudy Goldens and learn why our Golden Retriever puppies for sale are so different and unique. Furthermore, these adorable Golden retriever puppies come purebred and fully registered. Professional Blockhead Golden Retriever Breeder However, in our breeding program, we include Golden retrievers that we believe are some of the best Golden Retriever stud dogs available. For instance, we prefer big males with substance and bone, who exude strength and confidence, have solid headpieces, and are well put together. Also, to ensure their health and the health of their offspring, breeding Golden Retriever dogs undergo a variety of tests. To clarify, all puppies are sold under contract and come with a written hip and health guarantee as well as lifetime breeder support. Moreover, our Golden Retriever puppies for sale are masterfully crafted, and their charming personalities and endearing behavior will seduce you. However, a Golden Retriever dog is a truly loyal and loving companion. Not A Puppy Mill However, your puppy is raised in a healthy and caring environment. A Certified Vet Check Certainly, a certified veterinarian examines your puppy from head to tail. Health Guarantee Most importantly, there is a genuine, 2-year genetic health guarantee for your puppy. So, the majority of the Golden Retrievers in our kennel are from highly regarded show quality bloodlines. Similarly, for our breeding program, we often hand-pick show dogs from complementary bloodlines. In addition, our Golden Retrievers are of sound mind, proper breed type, substantial size and bone, and eager to please. In short, you have come to the right place if you are looking for a block head Golden Retriever puppy as a personal protection dog, show dog, or simply a loyal and loving family companion. Likewise, Mudy Goldens is capable of doing it all! Winner of the best Golden Retriever kennel award. In this Kennel, our world champion stud force is unmatched, and we produce the best Golden Retriever puppies with our top breeding females. Secondly, our achievements at AKC speak for themselves; please take the time to read through all of this important information. Thirdly, and most importantly, we are one of the pioneers to introduce the block head Golden Retriever breeding procedure to the United States, and it all started here at Mudy Goldens. Moreover, our website includes Golden Retriever puppy images, generations of our breeding line, golden retriever articles, retriever education, and is just a taste of our devotion to this incredible breed. However, our breeding program produces block headed Golden Retriever puppies for sale from our best breeding stock. In other words, outstanding Golden Retriever breeding for over three decades. Moreover, our Golden Retriever breeding program is founded on superior blockhead golden retriever breeding techniques that have been used for over a century. Because of this, we are able to create great Golden Retriever puppies using these methods for any home, show, or sporting event. Related Articles: Block Head Golden Retriever Puppies While it is easy to identify this type of Golden Retriever when they become adults, it is hard to recognize it when they are puppies. Often the pet owner will have no idea they have a blockhead golden until the puppy has been home with them for several months. The attribute that defines this type of puppy, which is their head shape and size, is hard to distinguish when they are puppies. It is also hard to tell whether a litter of Golden Retrievers will include any block head puppies or not. Of course, if you have two block heads that breed together, there is a higher likelihood that at least some of the puppies would have this defining feature with them. But this is not guaranteed. However, block head Goldies are bound to show up in litters that is the least expected. In some cases, dog owners have seen that it is more common to get a block head Golden Retriever among different colors of Golden Retrievers, especially the light colored ones. Rather than focusing on the block head feature of the dog, it is important to look more at the variety of Golden Retriever that you would like to bring home. This means you should take a look at these dogs and see if they have the specific characteristics you want, rather than hoping to purchase a puppy that has a block head, but may turn out to be a slender head. This is common with many different breeds of dogs, though for some reason Golden Retrievers seem to get lumped together in one group. When it comes to the varieties that are with the Golden Retriever though, the differences are cosmetic and will not affect the temperament or the health of your dog. The two main types include: Block Head Golden Retriever The Block head Golden Retriever is recognized because it has a larger head, often with better fur, compared to the other breeds that are out there. This type of dog is graded as a show dog due to these features. When they are a baby, they may not look much different than the other varieties, which can make some pet owners wary about purchasing one until they know for sure. As the dog gets bigger, it is easier to see the different shape and size of the head become more prominent. This type of Golden Retriever holds more of the standard look for this breed. This does not mean there is anything wrong with the slender head breed. But because the other breed has been designed to do well at shows and being shown off, it is the more common, and the more popular, breed to work with. Slender Head Golden Retriever If you are looking for a show dog, then you will want to use the block head Golden Retriever to do this. The reason for this is that they are showy and have bigger heads. This does not mean that they are necessarily any better than the second option of Golden Retriever, the Slender Head Golden Retriever. For this breed of dog, the domed or narrow head is going to be found. This is preferred for some pet owners because they look pretty cute with this kind of head. The only difference between them and the block head breed is the side of the head. They have the same temperament and the same health factors so that should not determine whether you choose one or another. It is all a matter of personal preference. Different Varieties of Golden Retrievers In addition to the two main types of Golden Retrievers that we talked about above, there are a few different varieties of these dogs as well. They are all lovable and great additions to have in your family. But it is up to the personal preference of the dog owner to determine which one is best for them. This is the one that looks quite a bit different than some of the other breeds. The hair is a bit shorter and thinner compared to some of the others. The coat is often darker since the lighter color sometime seen will come from their long light-colored overcoat. This is good news if you want a dog that is not going to shed all that much, though you do lose out on some of the fluffiness that comes with this variety. This type of dog is also going to be a bit taller than some of the other varieties of Golden Retrievers. Their weight is a little bit more as well. This is not a huge difference, but if you would like the dog to be a little bit smaller, then you may want to choose one of the other breeds, especially the American Golden Retriever. This is a breed that is seen in many parts of Europe and Australia. They have some beautiful coats that come with long and feathery fur, which is a distinctive feature of this breed. This version is a little bit smaller than the Canadian variety, even though the differences are not that large. There are only a few differences between the English and American varieties of these dogs. They have the same kind of temperament and the same size. The biggest difference will be in the build. You will quickly notice that the British variety will have more power and muscles, along with rounder and darker eyes compared to their American friends. The color of the coat is often lighter as well. American Golden Retriever These breeds have less muscles compared to some of the other varieties. This makes them look lankier and they often have narrower bodies and heads as well. They may have a darker coat compared to the British breed, though the color is more lustrous golden. They may also have some feathering, giving your family a big fluffy dog to love on all they want. When this type of Golden Retriever starts to run around, you will notice their gait is smooth, free, and powerful with a lot of coordination along the way. Their feet can also converge on a center point of balance as they run around. This will help them be a good show dog, even if they do not have the block head that is generally accepted for this. Keep in mind that this is for the American standard, which is different than some of the other options. All of these varieties of Golden Retrievers can fit under either the block head or slender head variety. It will depend on the litter and breeding that are used. It is possible for one litter to be a combination of both of these types based on the genetics of the parent. It may take a few generations of breeding in a specific way before you get a full litter of block head puppies, though this is not a guarantee either. All Golden Retrievers are a wonderful addition to your home and family. And when you are looking for a loyal and faithful dog that is able to keep up with everything your family likes to do, then the Golden Retriever is one of the best options out there. Whether you choose to go with a block head or a slender head Golden Retriever, you are getting a pet that your whole family will enjoy. Related Articles:.
A corner of the living room, dining room or other area where family regularly gathers is an ideal location. Crate location is particularly important at night, especially for young puppies who often need to go out for a potty trip at least once before morning. Keep one in the common area where your pup will hang out during the day, and one where they sleep at night. How to Crate Train a Dog: Step by Step One of the secrets to kennel training success is giving your dog plenty of time to feel comfortable inside the crate before closing the door and leaving them alone for the first time. Spend as much time as you need on each step to ensure that your dog feels content and stress-free. Ready to dive into crate training? You can also entice your dog with a busy toy stuffed with treats—anything to make that crate as appealing as possible! Stay happy and upbeat as your puppy explores the crate, making sure to give lots of praise when they go inside. At this stage, keep the door open. Practice this step as many times as necessary for your dog to get comfortable in the crate. At this stage, the choice to go into the crate is up to your pup. If your dog is hesitant to go inside, you can give treats to reward baby steps in the right direction, like if they glance at it or take a step towards it. These small successes will encourage your pup to keep it up! Then, provide a lightly stuffed busy toy for them to enjoy inside the crate. Stay nearby as they enjoy the goodies, and experiment with closing the door while your pup is enjoying the toys and treats inside. Let your dog out right after they finish the treats, or at any barking, whimpering or pawing at the crate that might indicate they want to come out. Again, keep at this step until your dog seems relaxed and shows no signs of stress inside the crate. Listen at the door for whines or barks that tell you your pup is ready to come out. But at this stage, your dog may surprise you by settling into the crate easily. In fact, if you time your play session, potty break and crate time properly, you might just return to discover a napping pup in the crate! If your pup remains content inside, try leaving the house for a short period of time. This is especially important for puppies, whose "hold time" is still developing. Doing so might force them to soil inside. That means a 4-month-old puppy can hold it for about four hours. Remember, play and excitement can make your pup need to go out more frequently, too. For adult dogs, avoid crating them for more than four hours. That means that you should plan for a mid-day break if you'll be leaving your dog crated during the work day. Feeding your dog's meals in their crate with the door open can help to make it a positive spot. The crate should never be used for punishment. Check out our tips on dealing with dog separation anxiety and puppy separation anxiety in particular, and talk to your vet for advice tailored to your unique pup. Read More. She is awesome! We love her dearly, I am the main care giver, my name is Marlette. The question is we have been consistent with Charlotte about sleeping in her cage, not with us. This is one Poodle who hates her cage. She does not bark or wine long but she does not sleep well in her cage. She gets up at in the morning and soon after wants to sleep during the day when she sits with me. I know this because I check her to see if she needs to go potty. After I find out she's okay she runs to my bedroom stands at the side of my bed I still put her back in her cage. It is so hard! I put a blanket, toys, treats but she would rather be with me then go to her cage. My husband thinks I hold her to much, I do feel she wants time with me in the day time and I am most happy to play, cuddle, train her then knowing she was in her cage all night. Charlotte only takes an afternoon nap in her cage. Charlotte loves to be with me if I leave the room she looks for me follows me everywhere. Could this be the problem? Answer: Hello There! This is one of the Poodle's most endearing qualities and it is why so many people choose to have a Poodle. Poodles love to be with their human family members and can become quite sad and despondent if they are not allowed to be close to their human. There definitely needs to be some adjustments to how things are being handled at night. However in regard to spending time with her during the day, there is no such thing as too much time with a dog. You are not spoiling your Poodle by holding her;you are simply giving Charlotte what she naturally needs.However, regarding the cage.There are several elements to consider: 1 You don't say how large or small this cage is; however we are assuming it is a small crate type enclosure. Metal wire cages are just terrible for dogs as the wire grating can cause havoc on paws. And both small crates and cages are too confining for a dog to be in overnight. For your Poodle's comfort, we would suggest choosing a designated area that would hold her dog bed and toys. This can be a small gated off area or an indoor canine playpen. You would leave the entrance to this open when you are home so your Poodle can enter into it when tired and wanting to take a nap and you would close it at night, to keep her secure and in one spot while sleeping. However, there is no reason to check on her as often as you do. Just the sound of you approaching may wake her up; dogs can hear so much better than we can. As you are tiptoeing up to her cage, most likely you think you're being super quiet but she hears you coming. So, from her perspective, she is sleeping or at least resting quietly , you come up to her. She believes that you are initiating interaction, so she in turn runs to your room. But wait! You really didn't intend for that.You put her back in her cage and now she's really confused. Is she supposed to sleep? Is she supposed to wait one more hour until you tiptoe back in? Is it a game.With your Poodle puppy being 4 months old, she can hold her urine for 4 hours. It is important that Charlotte learns to control her bladder as she grows up. At 5 months, she should be able to hold her needs for 5 hours.And then no matter how old she is, 8 hours will be the maximum time that she will be able to hold her bladder. And there is no need for you to be waking up so often. So, as you can see this is really not a matter of your Poodle hating her cage; it is just a matter of mistakenly training her to think she is supposed to keep leaving it to run to your room. As a side note, be sure to take her for a nightly walk about 2 hours before bedtime to tire her out, have the last snack of the day no later than 1. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. They prefer a quiet, confined, enclosed area where they feel safe and secure. In fact, the proper use of a crate can help in housetraining, provide secure travel, lower the stress in a dog, keep a dog safe in certain environments, and keep him from damaging his surroundings. Wire crates vary from heavy gauge to lighter weight types which fold and store easily. Wire crates allow total ventilation and enable the dog to see everything in his environment. That visual stimulation may be too much for some dogs. Some dogs may pull or chew on the sheet covering the crate. To avoid this, place a piece of thin plywood on top of the crate. The plywood should be large enough to allow the sheet to hang a distance from the crate where the dog cannot gain access to the sheet. Plastic or metal airline crates are required to ship a dog by air. Most airlines have specific crate requirements for canine shipping, so consult with your airline carrier. An airline-approved crate also offers greater protection to the dog in an accident. Plastic airline crates separate into two halves which can be stacked for storage. They are also safer for small dogs or puppies as there is less chance of a leg, paw or jaw getting caught in the wire. Fabric or soft-sided crates are light weight, fold easily, and are convenient when traveling. A dog must be completely crate trained before you can trust him in a soft-sided crate, because the crate can be chewed through or rolled and moved. For these reasons a soft-sided crate is not recommended for puppies. New crates can be bought in pet shops and discount pet food outlets, from pet catalogs, at dog shows, farm supply stores, department stores, or on the Internet. Be prepared to thoroughly clean and disinfect a previously-owned crate before using it. The price will depend on the size, manufacturer and type. Many come with a removable floor. Some can be ordered with doors on the side or the end, or both. Various kinds of crate pads are available to cushion the bottom of the crate. Most crate pads are washable. Most dogs are very accepting of a crate. Any complaining at first from a puppy is more likely due to adjusting to his new environment and perhaps the loss of his littermates. Place the crate in a room the family uses, such as the kitchen. Keep it out of drafts and away from any blowing hot or cold air vents. Start by feeding the Poodle in the crate. This will make the crate a positive place and enable him to eat without any interference from other dogs or children in the house. Establish a routine. Put him in the crate for naps, when he must be left alone for a few hours, or whenever a responsible person is unable to supervise him. Be sure to remove a collar with tags as it might become caught in an opening or wire grates. Most healthy puppies learn to sleep through the night within a few weeks. Large puppies such as a Standard Poodle can be clean through the night as early as 8 weeks. Smaller puppies may take a bit longer. Housebreaking can be achieved more quickly if the owner is consistent about using a crate routine. Keep the pup crated for as long as it can hold it, then take the puppy straight outside, giving ample opportunity for the pup to relieve himself. Give the puppy a lot of praise when he eliminates and then take him back inside for at least 15 minutes of free time before going back in the crate. The idea is to build up the amount of time the pup is able to both hold it and remain free in the house by gradually giving the pup longer periods of free time inside the house, then crating for a period of time before letting him back outside. If you find your puppy is soiling the crate pads, towels or blankets in the crate, remove them and keep the bottom clear of any bedding. Some puppies will soil in their crate and hide it in their bedding. If there is no padding, the puppy must sit in his waste. Some puppies are used to eliminating on newspaper, so the use of paper to line the bottom of a crate is not recommended. All crates should be large enough to permit the animal to stretch out flat on his side, stand up and turn around. If you do not know the approximate adult size of your puppy, buy the larger size. For an adult dog, use a crate close to his length, measuring from the tip of his nose to the base of the tail. The height and width of the crate will be proportionate to the length. A temporary crate is most convenient for a puppy. Look for a used one. If you must use an adult size crate, make it smaller by placing a large plastic box in the back or making a moveable partition out of wire or wood. Make sure whatever you use is safe and secure if the puppy chews on it. If the crate is too large it is not as effective a tool for housetraining, because the puppy can move away from where he has eliminated. There are very few dogs that will not accept confinement. While more common with adult dogs than puppies, there are a few which seem to show signs of claustrophobia when crated. Before giving up, try a different kind of crate. If, despite every effort to use positive methods, the dog is obviously frantic or panicked, it is inhumane to continue its use. These dogs can do physical damage to themselves trying to escape. It is always worth trying, however. In most cases, use of a crate will prevent or solve undesirable behaviors, enhancing the relationship you have with your dog. A dog crate is not recommended as a method of confinement for a dog regularly left alone all day, although some dogs may learn to tolerate it. If necessary on a temporary basis, the dog must be well exercised before and after crating. Additionally, he will need extensive personal attention when you are home and freedom during the night rather than being crated again at bedtime. It is also very important that the crate is large enough so he can stand erect and stretch out fully on his side. An oversized crate is recommended. It must also have a non-spill water dish. Ideally, someone will come during the day to provide a time for elimination and exercise. An exercise pen x-pen can be attached to the front of each side of a crate, allowing the dog or puppy more room to move about while still being confined and providing a space outside the crate for him to eliminate. For puppies, a crate can be used as a playpen for general confinement. It should be large enough for a sleeping space with bedding at one end and a papered area for elimination at the other. Again, a water dish must be provided. Be aware that a puppy raised in isolation may suffer from lack of socialization, leading to difficulties in training, housetraining, and poor social skills with other people and dogs. Dogs are social creatures, and a puppy that lacks sufficient human contact will grow up to be a poorly-adjusted dog and pet. You can leave your dog home alone, knowing he will not damage your belongings. He is protected, comfortable, and unable to get into trouble. Housetraining is easier as the close confinement encourages cleanliness and control. You can establish a regular routine for your dog and prevent accidents in the house. You can keep the dog from being underfoot or in the way during meals, prevent him from wandering outside when people might leave outside doors open, or when he becomes over-stimulated and needs time to calm down. You can travel with your dog knowing that he cannot get loose in the car or escape if a door is open and that he cannot distract the He is safely confined for his protection in an accident, and he has the comfort of familiar surroundings when away from home. If you plan to show your dog in performance venues such as agility or obedience, it is essential that the dog be crate trained. Your dog needs a quiet place to relax while at the show. Simply lead the dog to the crate, put him in, and close the door. He has his own space, a den, where he can retire when tired, stressed, or needing to escape too much attention from children in the household. He can avoid the consequences of undesirable behaviors that have been prevented. He can more easily learn to control his bodily functions. He can remain in proximity to the family when supervision is impossible instead of being banished to the garage or yard. He can be included in family outings and trips rather than being left home or at a boarding kennel. Feeling secure in a crate will lessen his anxiety when he has to be crated at the vet or groomer. Accustoming your dog to a crate makes shipping the dog much less stressful. You want a well-mannered pet, and your dog wants to please you. A dog crate can accomplish this for you both. Additionally, the cost of a crate is minor compared to the expense of replacing furniture, carpeting, or veterinary bills from your dog eating inappropriate and harmful objects. This information has been provided to you at no charge. You are free to use it provided it is used in its entirety with no changes or alterations and that the copyright remains intact. If you have found this information to be helpful, please consider making a tax-deductible donation to: Versatility in Poodles Franklin, NC To make a donation via PayPal, please click the Donate Button: The contents of the www. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinarian advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding the medical condition of your pet. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website! If you think your pet has a medical emergency, call or visit your veterinarian or your local veterinary emergency hospital immediately. Versatility in Poodles and www. Reliance on any information appearing on this website is entirely at your own risk. Menu Start Right Away! The most wonderful tool available for helping you train your puppy is a crate. After all Canines are den animals. If the crate gives your puppy just enough space to sleep comfortably, he probably will not want to use the crate as a potty area. That means that when you cannot directly supervise your puppy you can keep him in his crate, knowing that he will instinctively control himself when in the crate — as long as you do not leave him in there longer than his little puppy bladder can handle! If you leave a puppy in a crate for more than a couple of hours at a time, you are setting him up for failure. If you take him out often you will give him the opportunity to get it right. That is the GOAL!!! If you take him out on a regular schedule this will be discussed under House-Training , you will have even better success. When purchasing a crate there are two things to consider. The ultimate size of your dog. Our Standard Poodles tend to range from 45 to 55 pounds and stand 22 to 25 inches high at the shoulder. Unless you are going to be buying different crate sizes as the puppy grows, it is best to buy a crate with a divider. My recommendation is that you look at www. They come with a divider. Your puppy has already been introduced to the crate. So Crate Training should begin immediately upon your arrival home. There are numerous training aids which provide guidance in this area. However, since it is important to begin a training routine immediately, the following basic tips will give you a start: Never push or shove your puppy into the crate Never use the crate as a means of punishment Coax your puppy in with toys or a treat Reward your puppy with lots of praise and another treat Also note: Do not leave your new puppy alone in the crate for more than 2 or 3 hours during the day. Your puppy will need to relieve itself often. Because they do not naturally like to soil their sleeping area this works in your favor for potty training. They will whine or bark so you can quickly take them outside. In this way the puppy learns to tell you when it needs to go outside and you should show your approval. This may be a little challenging at first when the puppy seems to whine to want out of the crate. You have to set the pace as to what whine or bark you will accept. Do not give in to every whine or bark. If possible place the crate in your bedroom at night until your puppy feels secure. This also allows for you to hear its whine when it needs to go outside to potty. Use old towels or blankets for bedding to begin with. For the first few nights placing something of yours with your scent on it will help your puppy feel more comfortable and secure. Soon your puppy will be sleeping through the night. You establish the times for going to sleep and waking up. Be consistent. Thereafter do not place anything in the crate until his potty training is well under way. The idea here is that if your puppy has an accident he will be wet and uncomfortable until you come to rescue him. When your puppy is dry and clean for two weeks straight then you can try giving him a towel and see how he does. When possible leave the door open during the daytime in a restricted area so that the puppy can go in and out at will. The crate is not only used to help you house-break your puppy but also to help you establish yourself as leader and set clear limits for your young puppy. A puppy that is not crated gets into lots of expensive trouble before he is full grown. Dogs do not suddenly outgrow destructive chewing and getting into things, so it is best that they never learn that they can chew or destroy furniture or other valuables. More helpful hints: The rule for puppies between seven to fourteen weeks old is that they are in their crate more than they are out. When they are out they are confined to a puppy-proof area and under close supervision. If no one is available to watch, the puppy does not receive freedom. Remember, your puppy is a baby and also needs a lot of sleep and down time. When he is out of his crate he is usually in overdrive, playing hard. After about fourteen weeks you can start to be a little less vigilant and see how it goes. If your puppy is getting into trouble back up and limit his time out to supervision time only. Gradually work toward having your puppy out for longer and longer periods of time without him getting into trouble. Also, do not give him the run of the house. Start in a small area and as he earns your trust widen the area he is allowed to be in. As he gets close to a year old you can gradually leave your puppy out longer while you are home with less supervision. However, make sure you check on him frequently to be sure that he is not getting into trouble. Crate him when you leave the house, at least for the first eighteen to twenty-four months of his life. Remember, he is not considered full grown until he is two years old. When your Poodle has proven that he is trustworthy while you are home, you can then allow him out of his crate while you are out. Start with short periods of time. Eventually, when he can handle small amounts of time, you can extend his free times to longer and longer periods, until he can be home alone several hours of the day. To prevent future behavior problems by giving privileges too soon, your puppy should sleep in a crate from day one. The crate can be in your room, but your puppy should not be allowed to sleep with you. Using a crate is an excellent way to ensure that your puppy will not destroy something valuable. Be sure also to have lots of hard chew toys available for him to chew on. Dogs that are given too much freedom too soon are bound to get into trouble and learn to be destructive. Many behaviorists and dog trainers agree that separation anxiety can be triggered by failing to set boundaries and limit freedom when a dog is young. A young dog that does not get too much freedom too soon can learn to be alone without becoming destructive. Before we go any further we want you to know that the training of your puppy has already started. The mother of the puppies start training her babies right away. It is a delight to watch her gentle but firm ways. One thing she teaches them is about keeping there eating and sleeping areas clean. Here at Poodle Mojo we aid the mother in the natural training process and then we continue the process so your puppy comes to you already potty and crate trained. It is up to you to know how and to continue in their training. Remember… In order to house train your puppy successfully you must crate train your puppy. If you are buying your puppy from us it will have already been introduced to the crate. Yes, we have heard some people say that a crate is cruel. Well, these people think dogs are people instead of canines. Dogs are den creatures. They like a safe place to be able to go to. They also like their own place. If you have to relate in people terms, well then, you have a house and you have a bedroom. Some of you also have your favorite chair. The first training priority for most new puppy owners is house-training. This is definitely job number one for any puppies living with humans. Therefore, the key to this process is to reward your puppy when he does what you want, and to keep him from ever making a mistake. Supervision is the KEY in this process. Young puppies do certain things when they are getting ready to relieve themselves. Typically, they begin to sniff the ground while moving constantly, sometimes in a circle, looking for a good spot. Until your puppy is well trained, go outside with him. The right spot should be a spot that you always take him to until he can go out by himself. The Schedule The most effective house-training is a combination of crate training and schedule feeding and potty training. And remember consistency is the key to success. Here is an example of a potty schedule for an 8 week old puppy: am — Potty. Fit the non-slip crate liner and add a comfy, cozy mat or bed. Provide your puppy with tasty treats and a couple of chew toys to tempt him inside the crate. A bowl of water is also essential that you can offer your puppy. Finally, you need to fasten the crate door open to prevent your furbaby from hurting himself if he bumps into it. Cut off a small piece of the blanket, and put it into the crate, wrapped up in the bedding. Keep the remaining piece of blanket somewhere safe and dry. You can now allow the puppy to investigate the crate. Poodles are curious, intelligent dogs, and you might even find that your pup goes into the crate immediately to eat the tasty treats inside. Poodles are clever pups who learn simple cue words pretty quickly, making your life much easier. You can begin using verbal cues from the get-go. Crate Feeding Crate feeding your Poodle can be a fantastic training technique, especially for shy, reluctant pups. Make a big deal out of dishing out the food so that your puppy gets excited. Now, put the bowl of yummy food just inside the door of the crate, out of reach of your puppy so that he has to go into the crate to get his meal. Next time you feed your puppy in the crate, move the bowl further back inside the cage. Eventually, your puppy should happily spend his meal times contained in his crate. Shut The Door Hopefully, your Poodle puppy will now view the crate as somewhere safe where he can enjoy his meals. Start by closing the crate door while your puppy is eating his meal. Be ready to open the door again as soon as the little guy finishes his meal. The idea is to keep your pet confined for around five minutes, but let your puppy out before he begins complaining. You should expect a small amount of whinging at this stage in the training process. If your pup starts complaining, turn around the ignore him. Once the puppy is quiet and calm again, you can turn around and open the crate door. If your puppy begins panicking and is distressed, open the door, and take a few steps back in the training process. Ignore the undesirable behavior, and wait until your pet desists and is calm again. Close The Door For Longer Periods If all is going well, you can start increasing the amount of time your puppy is confined to his crate. At this stage, your Poodle should be able to spend an hour or so in the crate before you let him out for a potty stop and some outdoor time. Potty Breaks Remember that your puppy must feel safe and comfortable when in his crate. So, you need to give your puppy some outdoor time every couple of hours and let him outside as soon as he comes out of the crate. Remember to factor in some bonding time after your puppy has relieved himself and before you put him back into his crate. After a month or so, you should expect your Poodle puppy to tell you when he needs to go out by heading directly to the door. By the six-month mark, your pup should be able to wait for around four to six hours before he needs to pee. Never expect your dog to wait for over eight hours before he has a chance to go to the bathroom! Clean Up Immediately! Unfortunately, accidents are inevitable when potty training your puppy, no matter how careful you are. Bad behavior issues can easily develop if your puppy becomes resentful of spending time in his crate. If the accident is outside the crate, clean your flooring thoroughly with an enzyme cleaning product. You must also clean the crate thoroughly to remove every trace of potty smell. Here are some harmful mistakes that you want to avoid. Never use the crate to punish your dog! Remember To Give Your Puppy Regular Breaks Very young puppies have extremely small bladders, so you need to remember to take your puppy outside for a bathroom break every two hours at first. The dog is a pretty hygienic animal, so you must not leave your puppy too long so that he has an accident in his crate, which would distress your pet and risk him associating his crate with bathroom spots. You must not expect an adult dog to wait for more than four to six hours before you take him outside for a bathroom break. You also need to socialize your puppy to be a well-adjusted, well-balanced dog. Final Thoughts I hope you enjoyed our guide to crate training your Poodle puppy? Please share the article if you do. Your Poodle should regard his crate as a safe spot where he can go when he needs to chill out and relax. The crate is also a useful tool for potty training your puppy and keeping your pet safe when you leave him home alone. Did you crate train your Poodle puppy successfully? How did it go? Tell us how you got on in the comments box below. Meet our writer Alison Page Alison Page was brought up with dogs and various other pets! For a few years, Alison worked as a Practice Manager in a small animal veterinary clinic. Alison is now a full-time writer, specializing in creating articles on the care and training of dogs, cats, and fish. Leave a Comment. There are three different poodle sizes — standard, miniature, and toy. Ranked 7 in breed popularity by the American Kennel Club, this wickedly clever canine breed can quickly be crate trained. How do you crate train standard, miniature, and toy poodles? The crate training process will be a similar process to training any canine breed. You will want to begin when a puppy to establish good habits early on and purchase a crate that is large enough for them to stand up comfortably. To crate train your poodle, no matter their size, you should follow these steps consistently: Introduce your poodle to their crate using positive reinforcement. Place treats and comforting items like blankets and favorite toys in the crate. Begin feeding your pup meals in the crate. Every two hours, take your poodle outside. Make sure that you are bringing them straight from the crate to the door each time. Ensure that every time the crate door is opened, you bring your puppy outside. Be mindful of giving your poodle adequate playtime and bonding time with you. Continue these steps until your puppy always goes to the door when they need to potty. This article will answer any questions you have about crate training, potty training, house training, and creating a better-behaved dog. It will cover each size variation and the details you need to know in caring for each unique poodle breed. Crate training can seem intimidating at first, but with a brilliant breed like the poodle, it will be a piece of cake! The process designates a safe space for your pup and instills in your poodle that, when they leave the crate, it is for a potty break. You may find it difficult or unsettling to leave your pup in a crate, especially during the first few weeks that they are home, and you want to cuddle and love your new poodle. However, establishing a routine as soon as possible will be the fastest and easiest way to guarantee your dog has fewer potty accidents in your home. How To Crate Train Poodle Puppies The process you will follow to crate train your poodle puppies consists of the following steps: Introduce them to the crate and use plenty of positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement will be your greatest ally in the crate training method. It allows your puppy to feel safe. Set some treats or toys in the crate and have it decked out with blankets and other comforting items. Allow them to sniff around the area and decide for themselves. Start feeding them meals in the crate, making this a safe spot where they can let their guard down. Always keep water in the crate and make it a nice place to rest. Take your puppy out every 2 hours and always take them directly outside after they come out of their crate. Make sure that while crate training, especially in the early stages, when the crate door is opened, you bring your poodle pup directly outside. Make sure that they are getting a balance of play and bonding time but are still going out every two hours or so, then directly back to their crate. For the most part, this is what the first month or two will run until you can trust them to tell you when they need to go out by going directly to the door. By the 6-month mark, your puppy will be able to hold their bladder for around hours, but you should never make a dog of any age hold their bowels and bladder for over 8 hours. There is no exact timeline for how long this process will take because all dogs are different, but it should last around weeks for most dogs. You could see drastic results in the first week and be able to offer your poodle more playtime, but you should remain diligent no matter how fast your pup catches on. By the third month, they should be taking you to the door or pawing at it when they have to go. The goal of crate training is that they will be able to communicate to you when they need to go in the future. If they are showing significant progress, reward them with more freedom but continue taking them out at the same time while heading directly to the door each time. A great behavioral training course can really help with crate training. I found a fantastic training system called Brain Training for Dogs. If you need any behavioral training at all for your dog, I would highly recommend this course! Check it out here The Potty Schedule Outlined In case you prefer a more specific outline or blueprint for scheduling, the following list gives the times that you should make sure to bring your poodle outside to use the bathroom: First thing when you wake up in the morning Before each play break Every 2 hours or so during the afternoon After their nap After each meal about minutes after eating to digest and have to go badly After drinking lots of water Right before bed As you can see, your poodle should get plenty of time outside of the crate. If you are not offering them this free time, you are doing it unethically and irresponsibly. It will be a gradual process of integrating them into the crate, and then once they are trained, slowly integrating them out of the crate while leaving the door open as an option. Follow these steps to implement the crate training process correctly: Start with more social hours at first with lots of potty breaks. After the first week or so, slowly add more crate time and reduce the amount of free social hours, adding an hour or two a day for the first few weeks. The middle of the process week should be very focused on maintaining a schedule. Two hours in the crate Right outside for a potty break. At this point, you can increase the social hours and reduce the crate hours. They will catch on in time, and they will finish their training when they are ready. Remember that accidents will happen during this training, and it is important not to punish your puppy because of them. You can add the following items to make it cozy for your pup: Fuzzy blankets A small water bowl Toys Chew bones Use rubber that is good for puppy teeth and gums. Do not use a real bone that could sliver off into sharp pieces. This could be a choking hazard for canines of any age, so you need to be very careful in selecting bones. These are some comforts that will make the crate feel like a safe haven instead of a punishment. I recently wrote the guide to the best toys for poodles. I discuss crate training related topics such as boredom and separation anxiety, as well as the best toys to help curb these behaviors. You can learn more here. This will only make them fear the crate and you, making the process take significantly longer or not work at all. Make it cozy and safe. Make meal-time designated to the crate. Leave treats in the crate when they successfully hold it for a potty break. Slowly add to the amount of time they must hold it. Some go by the method of the month to hour ratio for potty breaks. For example, if your puppy is two months old, they can hold it for two hours. If your puppy is three months old, they can hold it for three hours, and so on. Develop a term you say excitedly to invite them to go back to their crate. The reason that crate training works is because a dog is a relatively hygienic animal that will not want to sit with their urine or fecal matter. Some reasons why you should crate train your poodle are: It teaches them not to poop or pee where they sleep. It helps strengthen their resolve to control their bowels and bladder. This offers you peace of mind knowing you are not leaving them to develop bad habits. It helps your dog become well-trained for travel and comfortable with future crate-required plans. It offers them a safe shelter that is all their own. It lets them know that you alone establish their schedule. It helps the dog see you as the alpha and aids in your retaining control. This avoids having an out-of-control puppy that is beyond training. It will end up being their security blanket, and if done correctly, crate-training offers them a space they can retreat in for serenity and solitude. Mistakes to Avoid When Crate Training Your Poodle There are plenty of ways to accidentally do a disservice to your dog while crate training them. This will result in them fighting you the entire time, and you risk them not properly being potty trained. You will need to take them out often to avoid them sitting in their waste. You may consider taking them out every hour, but you must take them out at least every two hours. Do not confuse crate training with locking them up all day because they will need many potty and social breaks. Keep in mind that their bladders might be larger, and they can hold it for longer, but not more than hours. You may have to reprogram their brain that they need to hold it unless they are outside. They want to be creating a relationship with you and the world. If they are not getting time to play and enjoy human interaction, your poodle can quickly become depressed or develop anxiety. This is probably the most important takeaway you should hold on to. Now that you understand the basics of crate training, you must learn the differences between each type of poodle. The poodle breed overall has won countless blue ribbons, is the national dog of France, and is known for its pedigree and class. The three classifications for poodles that are based on their size are: Toy — The smallest variation will often be less than 10 inches tall and weigh under 9 pounds. They are bred from larger poodles, so they retain the same behavioral and personality characteristics as larger poodles. Miniature — The miniature poodle is closer to the toy poodle in size and is between 11 to 15 inches tall and weighs between 10 and 20 pounds. Standard — The largest variation of poodle will be over 16 inches tall with most being around 25 to 30 inches tall and weigh between 40 and 75 pounds. They are bred for retrieving and intelligence. Selecting A Crate for Your Poodle There are tons of crates to choose from, but your primary considerations going into the crate selection will be the following: Select a crate that allows your dog to stand up, spin around, and not feel claustrophobic. You will want it a few inches taller than their height when standing straight. If there is room to designate a bathroom area in the crate, it is too large. Crates for pets will most commonly come in the following materials: Wire Plastic Fabric If you select a wire crate, your pup can see their surroundings. This allows them to look around and feel included, while a plastic crate may have walls that make them feel too confined or left out. Best Crates for Each Poodle Size It can be difficult to know what size crate will work best for your poodle. Here are my favorite crates on Amazon for each toy, miniature, and. Crate Training Your Poodle: Behavioral Problems and Solutions Your dog will sometimes cry during the early stages of their crate training. Some common behavioral issues of the poodle breed to be aware of are: Barking at all hours of the night Digging holes in the yard or your carpet Chewing on furniture or shoes Jumping the fence when let outside Stealing human food Hand chewing or biting Potty accidents Many of these behaviors are triggered by a bored poodle that is not getting enough socialization, exercise, or bonding time. Play more games with them Provide toys that are mentally stimulating, like puzzles that release treats Provide more chew toys if they are biting hands. They may be teething and need special Puppy Chew Toys Teach them more tricks and take opportunities to train them Your poodle is very intelligent and loves to be trained. Give them more brain activity and tasks to accomplish, like training, and the happier your poodle will be. Dogs like to feel a sense of purpose, just like humans. Show them more attention, and most of these bad habits will cease. Without adequate care, your poodle will become depressed, anti-social, anxious, or downright badly behaved. Check out this video to help stop your poodle from barking in her crate: Final Tips on The Crate Training Process Potty training your puppy will be a challenging but worthwhile process! This psychological training will condition them to follow your lead, have their safe-space and territory, while also communicating more clearly when they need to go outside. Take their lead in how ready they are to be free of the crate. If they cry at night, it is normal. Animals get scared of the dark, just like humans. Reduce their anxiety by making them feel less isolated. When your puppy has playtime, leave the crate door open. You may notice that they go back in willingly. The right crate connects to their instincts and should be well-embraced by the poodle breed. If you are going to commit, commit properly by avoiding punishments and making this a consequence-free period of learning for them. In Conclusion Take the crate training technique on in baby-steps. The tortoise beat the hare for a reason. Offer your dog love, affection, treats, and consistency — and they will be potty-trained in no time! Crate training should not be about leaving them in the crate all day, but more about instilling healthy habits. The crate should feel like their safe space. Find more ways to add comforts and offer them treats each time they go in their crate. Be mindful not to rush the process or force it upon them. It will happen naturally as you develop your routine with one another. I hope you found it helpful. Here are some products that I personally believe every owner should employ to help ensure the best quality of life for their dogs. But in all honesty, these are the exact products that I use and recommend to everyone, even my own family. Lemonade Pet Insurance : Lemonade Pet Insurance has enabled me to afford a very high level of veterinary care for my dog, Angus. Even after he was diagnosed with cancer a few years back. This program actually works, and at a small fraction of the cost of hiring a dog trainer! Pet Plate is the dog food subscription service I use to provide extremely healthy, pre-portioned meals for my dog. Pet Plate gives my dog Angus the highest quality nutrition at a very affordable price. BarkBox : Without a doubt, my dog enjoys Barkbox more than anything else I buy him. BarkBox delivers a customized box of themed toys, treats, and other products to your door each month. In addition, I like that a percentage of proceeds is donated to local animal shelters. I Purchase this service for my dog Angus and have saved hundreds of dollars over visiting his local vet with questions or more minor health concerns. Brent Hartman I'm Brent Hartman. I've been a dog lover my entire life and have owned many animals over the years. When my black lab Angus passed away, I was looking for another friend to share my life with. As a result of my research, I've come to love poodles and wanted to share some of what I've learned with you. Whether you're looking to adopt a poodle, or already own one, I created Poodle report to be the ultimate guide to help you find the answers you need. Recent Posts.
Click here to see our tiktok We are building families all around the world with our purebred French Bulldogs. Dreaming about an adorable Frenchie as a new family member? We'll make your dream come true, with a puppy from our breeding program. Our goal is to find you the perfect French Bulldog puppy, who can guarantee unforgettable memories. As wonderful as breeding is there are many genetic disorders that can be detrimental to a dog's and it's owner's life. A pup's health, temperament and appearance are determined by the genes passed on by their parents and bloodline. In our breeding program we only select French Bulldogs from the highest and healthiest quality. Our happy, playful and adorable puppies are chosen from champion bloodline with perfect genetical attributes, sticking to the AKC standard sizes. How do you get your puppy? Before the flight the French Bulldog puppies undergo a full veterinarian check performed by an independent vet. In case of any health issues the puppies are prohibited from travel. We selected four airline companies Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, KLM and LOT over the years, they provide a professional non-stop service for our Frenchies, making sure they are safe and comfortable throughout of the journey. The puppies are monitored constantly ensuring they are fed, watered, cleaned and kept at the right temperature. The travel crates used adhere to stript EU and international regulations giving the French Bulldogs sufficient space to walk around. You don't have to do more, just going to your closest international airport and pick up your new family member. We arrange for you the whole paperwork process. We provide worldwide delivery exclusively with professional airlines. Trained animal keepers provide first class service for your puppy. Show quality French Bulldogs from champion bloodline A successful breeding can't work for long time without passion, love and care. French Bulldogs from Paradise guarantee that your chosen one will arrive in perfect physical, mental and social conditions. Health Guarantee and more! If you choose us, we will send you a contract which is including all details of your puppy birth date, color, all of vaccinations, gender, microchip number, pictures of your new puppy in the contract. In this way, we making you sure that you will receive the puppy that you have chosen. Before your purchase we are sending you our Health Guarantee. Environment We give the best to our Frenchies. They live in a calm and excellent environment, grow up with our family and other pets. Furthermore we try to accustom them the everyday things, as travel in a car, potty training, bath. These often cause problems in older ages, but it is important to lay down the basics at young age. If you'll choose a Frenchie from our breeding program, you will receive a well socialized pup. Payment is safety! We accept PayPal and international bank wire payment menthods. Fast and easy payment and shipment process If you made your decision and chose your Frenchie, we will send you all the details and pictures of your puppy. Before your purchase, please read our documents carefully, and if you like to modify the content, please let us know. Within 5 to 10 days you can hug your dream puppy. Still concern about purchasing from us? Check our references, write us an email, contact with our US clients or simply just call us! We have some useful tips how to protect yourself from online scam pet sellers. Click to the following to read our article. How to avoid online puppy scams? The most awaited day! From picking out my pup, to emailing back and forth with Mike, to picking up Finn from the airport, was the smoothest transition I could have ever asked for! These people genuinely give so much love and attention to these sweet pups before they go to their forever homes, it makes my heart melt. Finn has been nothing short of a blessing to my life and I've already recommended to many! Prepare your home before the new family member arrives. Puppies are just like us. If they feel your care and love, they will open quickly. We feed our Frenchies with premium hypoallergic dog food, for beautiful fur, better stool, and more energy. Hide electronical cords, cleaning supplies, valuable items and everything which can be dangerous for your puppy's health. Hide all those things out of paw's reach. Make an Instagram account for your puppy and follow more Frenchies from the Frenchbulldogs from Paradise family! Go to the park and search for four legged friends! We do not ship puppies via airline cargo. We work with two airline attendants who make deliveries for us on their off days. Our dogs ride in the cabin area, usually in the laps of the ladies, and are hand-delivered to our customers. We are proud to offer references from past customers who have visited our home to pick up their puppies, along with those who have chosen the hand delivery service. All of our dogs are vet checked twice before being transported to their new homes. We even offer a one-year health guarantee on life-threatening genetic disorders. Please see the puppy contract page for more information. You can also feel free to check out the assortment of colors and color combinations we have available and are able to produce, as well as our current puppies up for sale. If you do not see what you are looking for, we can add you to our waiting list. Call us for any additional questions, and check back regularly for updated litters! Have questions or interested in one of our Frenchies? Let us know! Your Name required. They are also known for their distinctive "bat ears" and squishy faces, compact and muscular body and a broad head with a flat forehead. They come in a wide range of colors, patterns and sizes which makes them appealing to different tastes. French Bulldogs can be found in colors such as blue, lilac, and merle, which are considered to be rare and unique colors. At Country Club Frenchies, we are a reputable and responsible breeder based in Georgia, dedicated to breeding quality French Bulldogs. We have strict breeding practices in place and only breed dogs that meet certain health standards. We are transparent about our breeding practices and are happy to provide information about the parents of our puppies, as well as any relevant health certificates. We have a wide variety of French Bulldog puppies for sale, with a variation of colors including blues, lilacs, merles and tri-colors. Our French Bulldogs are well socialized and have great personalities, easy to train, and make great companions. We also offer stud services for other reputable breeders in Georgia. We understand that bringing a French Bulldog into your home is a big decision and we are happy to provide all the necessary information about French Bulldog care, training and health. Our dogs receive the best care and nutrition, and we also provide information about genetics and how to keep your French Bulldog healthy. We also believe in the option of adoption, and we encourage people to consider adopting French Bulldogs from shelters and rescues, who are waiting for a loving home. French Bulldogs are low maintenance and don't require a lot of exercise or grooming, which makes them a great option for people who lead busy lifestyles. If you're interested in bringing a French Bulldog into your home, please visit our website www. You can gain further insights about us by exploring our informative blog posts. Download our guide! We offer standard and fluffy Award- winning Award-winning bloodline, guaranteed health Every TomKings parent dog has passed a rigorous selection and examination process before we started our elite breeding program to build the healthiest and most Frenchie-authentic gene pool for our TomKings Frenchies. All of our adult dogs and puppies get the highest quality food and supplements to ensure immaculate health, and they are checked by our vet on a weekly basis. Our purebred French bulldogs come with a TomKings Health Guarantee, that is valid against all genetic illnesses. Instead, we treat all of our Frenchies as family members , let them roam freely in our vast green garden and rest with us in our house. Our Frenchie puppies can play as much as they want and we raise them by teaching all the good manners among dogs and people, including children. Maternal love 12 weeks of maternal love and professional care Spending 3 whole months after birth with their caring mother and siblings ensures that TomKings puppies develop a healthy dog-personality and a well-balanced nature. Before joining their new families in the USA and elsewhere, our Frenchies get all the puppy vaccinations, are dewormed and treated against parasites. They travel in a temperature-controlled and pressurized room not stacked on top of suitcases , and they are watched all along the flight. During layovers, the puppies are taken off the plane and placed in a pet hotel, where they are given fresh food, water and lots of pampering. They are sweeter than any airport scenes in romantic movies. Feel free to reach out to us any time with your questions or to share your joy: we answer you immediately 16 hours a day.
The first step helps you determine why your GSD is barking and then address the underlying issue rather than reprimand the behavior. Top reasons your dog might bark at unknown people might include: Trying to greet the person but having poor greeting manners. Showing territorial behaviors, like protecting their home or yard. Seeing strangers as potential threats. So, they often bark when they notice strangers near their home or yard to protect and alert. They warn their families to threats by barking at people, even when they are not near their home or close to their yard — yet your dog hears them. Your dog will still remain watchful and aware of dangers, even if you discourage excessive barking. The goal is to help them understand the difference between non-threatening objects and threatening objects. If you think your GSD is becoming aggressive, then read up on deterring aggressiveness in your German Shepherd. Harsh punishment—such as hitting, kicking, or using shock—increases aggressiveness in some situations. Other times, owners may use a shock anti-bark collar as a method of punishment for barking. Using painful anti-bark collars and muzzles should be a last resort. Try more positive methods first before adding in negative punishment. Put the treat right up to their nose and let them smell it. Praise him and give him the treat. Repeat this procedure regularly over a period of several days until your dog starts understanding what the command means. Gradually extend the waiting period to five seconds, then 10 seconds, then 20 seconds and then 30 seconds and longer. Finally, work up to the minute mark for the waiting time until the reward. If your German Shepherd barks at strangers when he is outside the house, for example, during walks, then begin a desensitization program. This is a way to find their threshold when they start barking and to work on decreasing the distance to the stimulus the stranger they bark at. Use treats that are soft, like cheese, tiny pieces of fresh-cooked chicken, or even homemade dog training fudge. Reserve these treats only for outside training times, which makes them more high value to your GSD. Be on the lookout for: a stiff body hair standing erect on the back and shoulders attentive staring at the stranger or nuisance object When you see your dog showing these signs, move away from the stimulus stranger. Hold the treat in front of their nose so they can smell and see the treat. As he looks at the treat and walks past or away from the stranger, give him the treat before he has time to bark. You are looking to get their attention away from the distraction. Check out the following for the best German Shepherd training commands for the ultimate in behavior modification. Remember that learning a new behavior takes time, especially a self-rewarding behavior like barking. This means your dog may take weeks and weeks of training to curb its desire to bark at strangers. Keep rewarding them with pea-size pieces of soft treats when outdoors and when they look at you and sit or performs a command you ask , instead of barking. Territorial and alarm barking arise when your dog sees or hears something that excites them. This is why your German Shepherd barks at the living room window or along the fence as strangers walk by. The fastest method to stop barking at the window or in the yard is to control their environment. In your yard, install privacy fencing or place reed fencing to fill in the gaps in the fence and cut off views to adjoining yards or activity in the street. Indoors, leave the curtains or blinds closed. Keep your dog away from the areas where strangers walk past, like your front door and rooms near the street or sidewalk. If your dog barks at strange noises, then install a white noise machine to help blur the background sounds that cause them to bark. Use this guide to exercise your German Shepherd and meet their physical needs to reduce unwanted behavior. Changing a self-rewarding behavior like barking at strangers can take weeks or months of diligent practice. Many forward-thinking German Shepherd owners, like yourself, who want to teach their dogs to listen to them and avoid unwanted behaviors with positive training did so by joining an online training program that uses scientifically-backed protocols found in the online Brain Training for Dogs program. Imagine learning how to control your German Shepherd with kindness, compassion, and science. The step-by-step obedience videos help teach your dog to listen to you and, with time and training, to listen to your quiet command and stop them from barking at strangers. Take a moment to look over the online training program and learn how to use brain training for better behavior. You and your dog deserve a break from their barking to have some fun! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Okay, some breeds don't, but only a few sticklers will argue against the statement "Dogs bark. Some of us know more than others just how bad it can be, especially if you live in a neighborhood with close neighbors, or an apartment. So, what can you do about it? First off, dogs bark for a plethora of reasons. To fix the behavior, you have to start with the problem, and the problem is "Why. The average dog sleeps around 11 hours a day. A tired dog is less likely to bark when you're away at work, so make sure your dog has an adequate amount of physical and mental exercise before you leave. Another big reason is a lack of socialization. A dog that has had positive experiences with people during the socialization process and is taught to ignore them as background noise won't bark at everyone as they simply make their way down the street. Sometimes, something as simple as meeting the mail carrier in a positive way is enough to get a dog to stop barking at them. Use this method to include all different types of people of varying ages and any contraptions that they may be associated with, like bicycles and skateboards, etc. Don't respond to demands from your dog. If your dog barks or whines in the crate, the door doesn't open until they're quiet. If they bark at you to get a treat, you don't give them a treat until they're quiet. A lot of people train their dog to bark at the door to go out, only to realize their dog likes to come in and go outside nonstop. They end up barking all day long. So be careful to not only not respond to their demands when they bark, but not to create your own barking Frankenstein's Monster! This may seem counterproductive considering what I just said about being careful not to create your own Frankenstein's Monster of barking, but.Hear me out before you judge! Teaching a dog to bark on command isn't teaching your dog to bark for no reason or a reason that they choose when to use. You use your command for them to bark when you want them to, they bark, you reward. If you're diligent in your work of training your dog, your dog surely knows what "no" means. Instead of saying "bark," when they bark without you asking them to, say "no bark. Using a "quiet" command is similar to a "no bark" command but a little different. The first entails teaching to control a dog's barking in a roundabout way. Teaching a "quiet" command is a bit more negative, but nothing extreme at all. It simply involves waiting for them to bark and saying in a firm voice "quiet. When they do that, reward. If they start barking again, repeat the process. If that sounds too easy, or you think you know it won't work on your dog, you might be right. But no worries, you just have to find a way to break their concentration from barking to giving their attention back to you having your dog's attention is called "engagement". If a firm, yet normal voiced "quiet" doesn't work in getting them to turn their head to look at you, say it a bit louder and sharp. If that doesn't work, whistle. That'll be your "quiet" command, then reward when they look to you. If that doesn't work, put a long leash and collar on them, when they bark, correct them while saying "quiet. We already went over boredom and anxiety, but what if the exercise doesn't work? No worries, there's a solution for that! T oys and puzzle games. Fill a Kong with treats mixed with peanut butter and freeze it overnight. You instantly have a toy a dog can play with for hours before getting all of the goodies out of it. Sodapup licking mats also do well in this category. You can also use treat dispensing toys of your dog's choice and leave them around as well. As for anxiety, close the windows and blinds, and leave on the radio or TV. Make it feel and sound like you're home and limit outside stimuli. So do as much as possible to minimize the very presence of such stimuli. Get help. There's a lot of help out there for you. If your dog is good for half the day because you go on a morning run, but starts barking halfway through the day? It may suit you and your dog better to hire a dog walker. If you're out of your depth training wise, that's okay too. You can always hire a trainer or look into doggy daycares. If you find a tip or trick or technique or toy or idea that works for you, that isn't found here in the span of this article, that's great! Share it in the comments! Share this article while you're at it. If you love dogs, and dog training, and you don't learn something new every day, make that a new goal. There's always something else to try, or one more thing you can do to fix an issue, or lessen the symptoms of it at the very least. Don't give up! Thank you for reading, and please leave a like and share. German Shepherd Barking: Curse or Blessing? Is your German Shepherd barking too much? And yet…do you secretly like that he is keeping the burglars away? Following, I want to share with you tips and techniques that can help you have peace and quiet as well as protection from your German Shepherd dog. The secret, and I will spill it out now, is to use positive training methods. These are efficient, fun and can be used to raise a dependable and friendly dog that will bark on command if needed. I have met several German Shepherd dog owners that tell me they want their dog to be friendly with kids, family and friends -but not with strangers. This is a hard concept to understand, specially if you are a dog. Besides, you do NOT want a dog capable of hurting people near kids, family and friends. I think this is a pretty neat compromise that is also fairly easy to train. Stop nuisance German Shepherd barking If you found this page, it is entirely possible that your hound already has a barking problem you would like to fix before moving on to teaching him to bark on command. This is an important step because, although many barking problems are mild, some do require special attention. For example, German Shepherd barking due to anxiety is something that needs to be properly addressed to help the animal relax and be friendly around anyone, specially friends and family. If, after reading this section, you realize your dog has a true aggression problem and barking is just the tip of the iceberg, I highly recommend you find a professional and positive dog trainer in your area to help you one-one-one - Search the APDT for one near you. Step 1: Why is my German Shepherd barking? You must become a detective and figure out why is your dog barking. Below you will find some of the most common reasons and links to step-by-step tutorials to solve barking in your GSD. Observe your pet carefully, make notes, ask neighbors and family members what they have seen. Pay attention to what is happening in the environment that triggers barking: what is the body language of your German Shepherd telling you? This will help you get an accurate diagnosis and choose the right training program. Step 2: Use the appropriate training program to stop German Shepherd barking! The following barking problems should be addressed before formally teaching your dog to bark on command and sometimes this is not recommended at all. Fearful German Shepherd barking German Shepherd anxiety may first appear as a barking problem. These are dogs that are truly afraid of something and pushing them to face their fears will only make matters worse. The best techniques involve slowly teaching your dog to change the emotion state of fear to one of joy in the presence of the fear trigger. Most fearful dogs will never become completely relaxed, so you will always need to be on the alert and manage the environment to prevent aggression from arising. I highly recommend you do not train a fearful dog to attack or bark on command. Resource guarding in German Shepherd dogs Also known as food aggression, resource guarding is a type of fear, in this case it is the fear of loosing something. Common things dogs will guard are toys, furniture, and even the owner. Follow this link for more information on this issue. Stress and anxiety barking in German Shepherd dogs Dogs can become stressed just like we do and high stress levels can trigger excessive barking. This link talks about common stressors and how to get rid of them. The barking problems mentioned below can be addressed at the same time as you teach your dog to bark on command. In fact, you will be using your hounds natural barking to start training it. So, find the category your dog falls into, read the corresponding article and then come back and read the step-by-step guide to teach your dog to bark on command Step 3. This is important because you will most likely be doing steps 2 and 3 at the same time. I am so joyful about life I need to bark! These are dogs that may bark at the doorbell, out of excitement when you are trying to put the leash on, or they bark at other dogs to make social contact rude, but social nonetheless. A good dose of impulse control exercises and providing a different source for energy outlet can go a long way! German Shepherd barking to alert of a possible intruder! I left this one for last because although it can become nuisance barking, this is the kind of barking most owners want in their German Shepherd dog. This article explains how to tone it down if it is upsetting you or the neighbors too much! German Shepherd barking for attention! Most dogs like attention, some clever dogs can even train their owners to get it on demand! Take away the attention while the dog is barking or teach an incompatible obedience command to solve this problem! Bored German Shepherd barking You must understand that German Shepherd dogs were bred to work in the fields all day long every day of the year! Start entertaining your bored pet with these ideas! Step 3: Train your German Shepherd to bark on command! Now that you have solved any problematic and excessive German Shepherd barking problem, it is time to teach your dog to do it only when asked to. Practice, patience and consistency will ensure your hound responds reliably. By now, you must have figured out what makes your dog bark and you will use this to make him speak! The example below is for doorbell barking dogs, but you can adapt the protocol as needed and use the barking trigger that makes your dog talk. You will need: 1 helper, barking trigger available, treats. Your dog will most likely bark at the sound of the doorbell! It is time to reward your dog! Say your marker word and maybe rub your pooch under his chin, but avoid the use of food treats we will need them for the quiet part! Barking is usually fun on itself for dogs, that is why praise is usually enough. As soon as he is quiet use your marker word for praise and then give him the treat. You are using the training method capturing for both commands. Repetition is what helps your dog understand what you are asking of him. Repeat the above steps times for a few days. It's kind of like training "stay" , but with shush instead. To test it, ask your helper to ring the bell with a few seconds of delay to give the dog time to process and respond to your voice command instead. Your GSD understands the command when he barks after you say it but before the doorbell sound or whatever trigger appears. For a command to be reliable , you must also practice it without the trigger and in many different situations: different times of the day, different places, with different people approaching, different background noises, etc. The idea is to help him understand under which circumstances it is OK to bark and when it is not. Be consistent: always ask him to bark when someone walks through the lawn, and always ask him to quiet if someone simply walks on the sidewalk. German Shepherds can be protective over their house and their family, so they want us to know when there is someone nearby that is a stranger. Barking because the doorbell rang Another common reason why dogs go crazy barking is because the doorbell rang. Dogs have learnt to associate the doorbell sound with someone sometimes a stranger being at the door. Thus, when the doorbell rings they immediately start barking to let us know someone is at our place. Funny story about my German Shepherd and the doorbell. One time we were taking a road trip to visit my mother, and there was a commercial on the radio that had a doorbell ringing. Allie immediately went to barking! Barking in excitement Another common reason dogs bark is because they are excited. This is why when their favorite person or doggy friend comes over, they go to barking like crazy because they know playtime is coming. Barking due to boredom German Shepherds can also bark because they are bored. That could include barking at everything they see outside or just barking to try and get you to notice them. A tired dog is a quiet dog! Barking to gain your attention Another reason German Shepherds bark is to gain our owners attention. Barking because they sense a threat GSDs will also bark if they sense something or someone that is threating. Dogs also have a good sense of judgment for bad situations and people with bad intentions, so sometimes they bark at times when you may not sure why because they sensed a threat from someone or something. Barking to get you to play or go outside German Shepherds are playful dogs. How to stop your German Shepherd from barking too much? One of the best ways to teach your dog how to control their barking is actually to train them how to speak on command. Once they have learned how to speak on command, you can also teach them the quiet command which will get them to stop barking on command. Check out my article on teaching your dog to speak and quiet to learn more. How to tell if your German Shepherd is barking aggressively? You can usually tell if your German Shepherd is barking aggressively, by the tone of their bark, their body language and the situation. The tone of an aggressive bark will typically be lower in key and your GSD will be more intently focused on the target they are barking at. Additionally, their body language will be stiff, the hair may stand up on their back scruff and they may even growl or show their teeth. Sometimes you can also tell if your GSD is a barking aggressively by the situation. Check out my article discussing whether German Shepherds are aggressive , you may be surprised to learn that aggression is often misinterpreted. Final Thoughts German Shepherds being a vocal breed can definitely bark more than other less vocal dog breeds. However, it is important to remember that barking, like whining , growling , and howling is just one of the ways German Shepherds communicate with the outside world. Depending on your living situation having a chatty dog breed is definitely one of the things you should consider before getting a German Shepherd. Also, remember that good training is the best way to quell barking that becomes too excessive. Does your German Shepherd bark a lot? Let me know in the comments!
Twitter Pinterest Splish, splash! How do you give your Goldendoodle a bath? To answer this question, I put together this how-to guide filled with my favorite tips on how to bathe a Goldendoodle. How often should you bathe a Goldendoodle? Before we dive into the how-to, you may be wondering how often to bathe your Goldendoodle. In theory, I bathe my Goldendoodle once a month. Many Goldendoodle parents wonder whether they should bathe then brush or brush then bathe. Actually, when it comes down to bathing a Goldendoodle, I recommend all three: brush, bathe, and brush again. Brushing thoroughly before the bath will remove tangles and mats. Gather your supplies. The next step in bathing a Goldendoodle, is gathering supplies ahead of time. Most Doodle dogs have enough hair and fluff to go around! Choose clothing accordingly. Some Goldendoodle parents even make clothing optional! Your cell phone because who can resist taking a few pics of a soggy doggy! Create an atmosphere your dog enjoys. Just like a human spa day, creating a calm environment will help your doggo enjoy the experience. Here are some ideas: Play soothing music. According to a study on music and dogs I found in Science Direct, dogs respond positively to soft rock and reggae music. Just hearing your happy voice can set a happy tone for your dog. Make it positive. Give your dog plenty of verbal praise, love, and even treats. If your dog is food motivated, it may be helpful to use a lick mat that can be suction cupped to the side of the tub. Before your dog hops into the bathtub, place a nonslip mat in the bottom of the tub. Also, it could help prevent a slip-and-fall injury for your dog. This is very important. Since dogs are a little more sensitive to warm water than we are, even making it a little less warm than you might like it is probably about right. Keep the water pressure low and gentle. Also, it allows you to focus on keeping water out of the ears and eyes. Use a dog shampoo to wash your dog. Do not use human shampoo to bathe your Goldendoodle. I simply put shampoo and water in a nonbreakable cup and mix it up. Then, I massage the shampoo into her coat one section at a time. For all the details on the dog shampoo we love and use check out: Best Shampoo for Goldendoodles. Working gently, I start from the top and work down paying extra attention to the paws, which tend to be the dirtiest. GOLDEN TIP: Especially for our long-haired or fluffy Goldendoodles, visually assessing the body while wet makes it easier to determine body condition—overweight, underweight, or just right. Also, I make sure to avoid getting water in her eyes and ears. Rinse thoroughly. This may take several passes. When washing my Goldendoodle, I usually start rinsing from the top and work down. That way all the soap gets off the highest point and goes to the lowest point. Leaving shampoo on the coat can result in irritation. Towel dry working in the direction of the coat. Then I wrap a towel gently around her body and help her out of the tub. Holding her like a baby, I pat her coat, working in the direction of her hair and not against it. When bathing a Goldendoodle, my goal is not only happiness but also not to tangle the hair. Rather, I towel dry working with the direction of the coat and not against it. Over the years, my Goldendoodle has become so accustomed to this, she gives me her paw so I can dry it for her. Blow dry the coat. After bathing a Goldendoodle, the gold standard is to blow dry the coat with a high velocity pet grooming dryer. This helps separate the hair. When the hair is completely dry, gently brush the coat again. Once your dog has had a good break, comb or brush the hair. For this last step, I think a dog grooming table comes in handy. Sometimes we celebrate with our favorite pupsicle frozen yogurt dog treat. More Goldendoodle bathing tips What else can you do to help your dog love and not stress over a bath? I typically plan on making Goldendoodle bathing a two-day event…one day for brushing and the next for bathing, drying, and brushing. Use your happy voice and give your dog plenty of sweet talk. Always check in with your dog. Is your dog cooperative? Never take this for granted. What about bathing a new puppy? If you have a puppy, there are several things you can do set your furry bestie up for a lifetime of happy baths. When my Goldendoodle was just a puppy, I honestly lucked into making bath time happy for her. She loved drinking out of the bathtub faucet. I turned it on so it was just a trickle of cool water. She clamored into the tub. She lapped up the trickling water from the spigot. Then I cupped my hands under the faucet and she drank from my hands. She still loves doing this as an adult. Your Goldendoodle puppy may love this too. Or, maybe your dog is food motivated. If so, you can try placing a lick mat on the side of the bathtub to provide a happy distraction. Here are more ideas for how to help prepare your Goldendoodle puppy for the first bath: Preparing your puppy for a happy bath time experience Before the bath, plan a time to just let your puppy have fun exploring the area where bathing will happen. Of course, have the area puppy proofed first. Let your pup sniff, explore, or approach the bathtub on their own terms. Slow and steady wins the race. If all is going well, try placing your puppy in the tub, which should be empty with no water running. Give treats, praise, and make it fun! Always end any new experience on a positive note. Once your puppy likes the bathing area and the bathtub, try turning the water on…just a trickle. Remember, the sound of the water may be frightening to a puppy. Give treats and use your happy voice to give lots of verbal praise. Enhance the experience by using a lick mat suction cupped to the wall. This makes a happy distraction. Thank you for sharing your valuable time with us and for loving Goldendoodles. Goldendoodle hugs and kisses! Photo courtesy of cooperthedood on Instagram. Splish, splash! Does your Goldendoodle need a bath? Most humans require a shower nearly everyday, but what about the furry members of your family? How often should you bathe a Goldendoodle? A general rule of thumb is to bathe a Goldendoodle every weeks. For optimal coat health, Goldendoodles should not be washed more than once a month unless absolutely necessary! Keep in mind, the frequency in which your Goldendoodle should be bathed can depend on a variety of factors such as activity level, environmental exposure, and coat length. When your Goldendoodle is freshly groomed and has a shorter coat , you may be able to wait slightly longer for their next bath. Goldendoodles tend to be a more active breed , if you and your furry companion enjoy time spend in the great outdoors, it may mean more frequent bath times. Some pesky pups love to get all covered in mud, meaning an additional appointment in the bathtub! If your dog is visibly soiled in dirt you should opt to wash them at that time. What happens if you bathe your Goldendoodle too frequently? Bathing your Goldendoodle too frequently can cause some problems for your pup. Bathing too often causes dry skin which can become itchy and irritating for your Goldendoodle. Dry skin can be uncomfortable, and in severe cases, dry skin may lead to excessive itching resulting in skin lesions, hot spots, or sores. Related: Goldendoodle Dandruff: 8 Veterinarian Approved Remedies Dogs have natural oils that offer some protective properties for their skin and hair. Too much shampooing can deplete these important oils and cause decreased skin and coat health. The loss of these oils have a noticeable appearance on your dog, as their coat may lose some of its natural shine, and their hair may become more brittle and damaged. Additionally, both the Poodle and Golden Retriever, and thus the Goldendoodle, have water-resistant coats. Bathing too often can cause a decrease in the effectiveness of the water resistant coats. This can cause issues, especially if your Goldendoodle loves to swim! How often should you bathe a muddy Goldendoodle? Photo courtesy of avashumanmummy on Instagram. What if you just bathed your Goldendoodle a week ago and they decided to take a mud bath in the nearest puddle? Is it okay to bathe them again? If your Goldendoodle has a history of having sensitive skin, you may want to opt for the first option, where no shampoo is needed, thus reducing the chance of irritation. Simply get a bucket of warm water, and have your dog put their paws in it to wash off muddy paws. This task is even easier if you have a Mud Buster paw cleaner! Once all the mud is gone, you can towel dry your dog. Option two is to wait until the mud has dried. At that point, use a brush to get out as much as you can before bathing them. You might be impressed by how much dirt the brush can get out! After their bath, brush your pup again to ensure all the mud is off. Photo courtesy of doodlethekai on Instagram. Bathing your Goldendoodle is an important chore for both you and your dog. For starters, regular bathing can keep your home cleaner and smelling nicer. A lack of bathing, can cause a build up or dirt, debris, bugs, and whatever else your dog happened to get into to stay stuck on their fur. Not only is this unhealthy for your dog, but it can fall off onto your bed, couches, and other furniture, potentially transferring these particles and bugs to the rest of your family. Additionally, dogs can actually absorb allergens through their skin. These allergens can cause irritation, which leads to scratching, and can cause more serious injuries such as skin lesions. Therefore, washing your Goldendoodle regularly is a good way to keep these allergens in check. More About Goldendoodles…. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Instead, use a washcloth or sponge to clean their face. Another way to give their face a good cleansing is by using shampoo in a small applicator bottle to apply around the eyes and nose. A small shampooing brush can be used to lather the soap into the fur. You can apply the shampoo directly on their coat, working your way from the neck down to the tail. This includes their undercarriage, legs, and paws. If any shampoo gets left behind, then their skin could become dry and irritated. To thoroughly rinse a Goldendoodle, the best way to go about it is starting at the top and working your way down. Keep it systematic — also work from the front to the back. It may take a few rinses to get out all of the shampoo from their fur. Wipe them down thoroughly with a dry towel and try to soak up any excess water in their fur. Let them have a moment to run and shake themselves dry. A miniature Labradoodle puppy after a shower The next part is up to you. If you feel like the dog is dry enough, then you can let them take off. However, if you feel that they need to be dried off more, you may use a hairdryer on the lowest setting. However, that may not be the right option for every Goldendoodle because the sound does startle some. Remember to never do any grooming to the Goldendoodle while their fur is still wet. This is crucial because any extra water build-up in their ears could lead to an ear infection. Keep your pet smelling and looking good with their monthly bath. Does your Goldendoodle do well in the bath? If they are well behaved, and you would like to give their skin and coat a little more moisture, a mild conditioner or cream rinse is optional. 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. Some of the care should be done daily to weekly, and other care depends on the coat length you keep on your dog as well as your lifestyle. To help with this, we created a series of videos for those who want or need to do all of their grooming themselves at home. Check them out here! Lack of ear care can result in painful ear infections for your dog. Many groomers will also trim nails and clean ears. We recommend no more frequently than every two weeks, and no less frequently than ever 6 weeks. Even small snags can turn into mammoth mats in a bath. A longer coat understandably requires more care, as does a more active lifestyle. Find your own personal style with your Goldendoodle taking your lifestyle and maintenance preferences into consideration. Someone who keeps their dog in a very long coat and has a very outdoorsy, active lifestyle may need to brush every other day or daily. We recommend starting to brush your dog at least twice a week, and then adjust in either direction depending on your dog and your lifestyle. Brushing only works on the superficial part of the coat and misses most of the coat closer to the skin. To properly brush, use your brush on a small segment of coat, separating it until you can see the skin. Brush that out and then move on to the next section. Again, be sure to comb to the skin. Regular brushing AND combing can help avoid this. Always discuss matting with your groomer PRIOR to leaving your dog at the salon to avoid any unpleasant grooming surprises. The larger the mat, the more it can pull on the skin, and the more likely you may be to have skin problems under the mat. Matting can hold in dirt, bacteria, funguses, as well as painful debris such as burrs. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Every dog loses their puppy fur to grow in their adult coat. For Goldendoodle puppies, this poses a challenge. A quick solution to this is using a slick brush a few times a week. Here is one of our favorites. All of our Doodles of NC puppies are brushed from just a few weeks old so they grow fond of the one-on-one bonding time. Bath time! In addition to brushing, our puppies learn to love bath time. Using a tear-free or mild dog shampoo allows you to bathe your doodle as frequently as every week without drying out their fur. Earthbath All Natural Pet Shampoo is our all-time top pick. Dogs, in general, have sensitive ears. If their ears start emitting a strong odor, or your dog scratches their ears and whines, we recommend a trip to the vet to check for an infection. Mini goldendoodles can easily be bathed in the kitchen sink. For larger Goldendoodles a walk-in shower or bath tub with a shower wand works beautifully. Lather twice and rinse thoroughly! Then towel dry and brush the coat. To speed up the drying process, a hair dryer on a low, cool setting, can speed up the process. Trips to the Groomers A goldendoodle's fur grows quite rapidly. We encourage a few trips to the groomers a year to help trim up their coat especially around their eyes to help minimize madding of the fur and healthy coat growth. And, one last tip! It is gentle enough for their delicate skin, but also smells super clean and fresh. And, feel free to reach out to us with any other questions you have on providing the proper care for your Goldendoodle. Do Goldendoodles Need Conditioner? We may bathe often, but bathing a dog too often can lead to dry skin, which causes itching in dogs. Grooming a Goldendoodle puppy should begin as early as possible in their life to promote acceptance of this task. This breed requires a lot of grooming, so get them used to a routine early. Some dogs will enjoy it, while others may only mildly tolerate it. The good thing is that puppies love to play, making it easier to undertake this ritual. Our Recommendation is to Take it Slow The first session can be a bit of a challenge for Lexie, but they will become less nervous about the process after the first few months. Having a puppy is a joyous time for a pet owner. We know it was for us when we adopted our beautiful Lexie. All that loveable cuteness with all that energy and curiousness about life can be fantastic fun to have around the home. As Lexie grew, she liked to go on little adventures around the house and our fenced-in yard, exploring and discovering lots of trouble. We found a perfect balance for bathing our cute teddy bear girl around once a month through research online and trial and error. We would only clean her more if she got extra, especially smelly or dirty, and needed it. In between those bath or shower times, we would brush her as needed with a slicker brush to remove tangles and prevent mats. If any mats have formed in their curly coats, you may need to cut them out with scissors or clippers. Puppies need to learn early on that bath time can be a fun experience. Regardless of how often a Goldendoodle puppy is bathed, it should always be positive since grooming is a lifelong task that they must accept and learn to enjoy. How do I bathe my Goldendoodle puppy? Those first bathing sessions were fun, where we ended up with just as much water on us as she did her, it was more like a family bath than a mini Goldendoodle puppy bath, but that was okay. Treats, verbal praise, and games can make the bathing experience enjoyable for everyone, from that first initial wash down to old age. These tools help keep it acceptable and fun for the whole family. It is important to brush and comb a Goldendoodle puppy before they receive a bath. Any discovered issues can be addressed, and then they can be bathed with a gentle dog shampoo free of fragrances designed for the unique needs of a puppy. You can follow this with a dog conditioner if desired. After this is done, offer a few treats and some much-needed praise. Overall it should be a positive experience for all involved, so everyone looks forward to the next time. We had a window of time to get it all done in those beginning days, fast before Lexie got bored. Thankfully her size made it easy for us to manage. A final brushing should do the trick, and both you and your beautiful fur baby pup will be headed for the next adventure of the day. It is highly recommended that a Goldendoodle puppy be bathed in a bathroom or possibly outdoors if the weather is tolerable. Some people like to think that bathing a dog weekly or bi-weekly will prevent them from being dirty, and to a certain point, depending on the dog itself, this is partly true what comes in its place though, can be much more irritating to deal with, dry skin. Not everyone enjoys baths at first, including us humans. Making it a fun experience can go a long way to creating the right environment for acceptance. Curiosity is the name of the game when it comes to bathing a Goldendoodle puppy. Depending on their unique pup personality, this may take a bit of time, a couple of sessions even, but throw in a few toys, and what Goldendoodle puppy can resist this fun? We did this once when Lexie was a puppy, and it was a warm summer day. If, after these sessions, a Goldendoodle puppy is less than enthused about a bath, their owner could undoubtedly join them in the tub for some water fun. Bathing a Goldendoodle puppy once a month is a guideline, not etched in stone. Should I have my Goldendoodle puppy bathed at the groomer every month? While a groomer can make a Goldendoodle look adorable, at the puppy stage, there is no need to waste money and time for them to do a task that a Goldendoodle puppy owner can do at home. Should the family be averse to doing it in their own home or yard, then a groomer will do a lovely job while offering them the experience of someone else handling them. This is a passive way to socialize with the Goldendoodle puppy. Grooming and bathing, whether at home or at a groomer, teach and train them while socializing them, which is beneficial for their mental and emotional development. They learn what is expected of them, and after a time, it naturally becomes a part of their life. In Conclusion A Goldendoodle puppy should be bathed about once per month. How often you bathe your Goldendoodle puppy is likely more informed by how dirty they get. This time frame is only a guideline as there may be certain times when they are bathed more or less than monthly. Whatever the length of time, we can tell you, a freshly bathed Goldendoodle puppy is too hard to resist! How Often Should I. How often should I brush my puppy? Your puppy needs to be brushed daily with a slicker brush followed by a metal comb. The slicker brush will only brush the surface. The comb will help you detect any mats that are forming underneath, which is a vital part of the process. Daily brushing will keep your puppy mat free and will also teach your puppy that grooming is a routine event. Typically they need to be clipped weekly to be kept at the proper length. As they grow, you can move to once or twice a month. A groomer will typically clip nails as part of the grooming service. How often can I bathe my puppy? As long as you use a tearless shampoo, you can bathe as often as you like. Be sure to fully brush after a bath to avoid matting. When should my puppy have its first hair cut? Your puppy will probably be ready for its first hair cut at months of age. You will want to find a groomer before you bring your puppy home so that you can take them to the groomer before their first hair cut to get them comfortable with the groomer and the process. How much does a professional clip cost? Pricing will vary based on location, kind of cut requested, and the length and condition of the coat. How long does a professional clip usually take? You can expect the grooming appointment to be hours depending the size dog and the kind of cut you request. This is a widget ready area. Add some and they will appear here. For all other questions: Email: admin goldendoodleassociation. Your membership helps to fund research and development regarding health, genetics, puppy development, and more. Member Application. They have become increasingly popular in recent years as family pets. One question that prospective Goldendoodle owners often ask is how often they need to bathe their new pet. The answer to this question depends on several factors, including whether or not the dog has any allergies, what type of coat it has, and how active the dog is. For most Goldendoodles, however, a good rule of thumb is to bath them every four to six weeks. Assuming you are talking about a pet Golden Doodle, the frequency of bathing depends on a few factors. If the dog spends a lot of time outside, is around other animals frequently, or has any medical conditions that require special care, then he may need to be bathed more often than one who stays mainly indoors and has no health problems. The average dog, however, only needs a bath every couple of months — unless he gets himself into something smelly! How often do you bathe a goldendoodle puppy? If you do bathe them weekly, be sure to use a gentle dog shampoo and conditioner to avoid drying out their coat. When it comes to post-bath grooming, most experts agree that you should brush your Goldendoodle after a bath. This helps to remove any loose hair and dirt that may be clinging to the coat, and it also helps distribute the natural oils from the skin throughout the coat. Brushing also allows you to check for any mats or tangles that may have formed while your dog was wet. If you find any mats or tangles, carefully work them out with a comb or brush before they have a chance to tighten up. Credit: goldendoodleadvice. But how often should you bathe your Doodle? Most experts recommend bathing your Doodle every four to six weeks. However, some Doodles may need more frequent baths if they are particularly active or have skin allergies. And always rinse thoroughly to remove all traces of soap from their coat. How Often to Bathe Goldendoodle Reddit Goldendoodles are wonderful, loving dogs that make great family pets. However, there may be times when your Goldendoodle needs a bath more often than usual. Here is a helpful guide on how often to bathe your Goldendoodle based on different circumstances. You should also keep an eye on their coat and skin and bathe them if you see any dirt or grime buildup. In general, once every week or two should be sufficient for most Goldendoodles. However, some people like to bathe their dog more frequently because it helps keep their coat looking shiny and healthy. Puppies have delicate skin so you want to avoid using human shampoo or soap on them. Once a week should be sufficient unless they get particularly dirty. Conclusion How Often Bathe Goldendoodle? It is generally recommended that you bathe your Goldendoodle every weeks. If your dog tends to get dirty or smelly more often, you may need to increase the frequency of baths. Conversely, if your dog is less active or has dry skin, you may be able to reduce the number of baths. Always consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions about how often to bathe your dog.
Breeds The link has been copied! Few dogs are as intelligent and loyal as German Shepherds. With its athletic build and remarkable drive, this working breed makes excellent companions, herding dogs, police K-9s, and therapy animals. How much does a German Shepherd cost? The price of a German Shepherd puppy can vary a lot from one breeder to another. German Shepherds are active and need plenty of stimulation. Flea and tick preventatives are a must-have. You might face additional costs such as pet insurance, training classes, boarding fees, or dog walkers. Puppies tend to cost more due to the high demand. However, professional breeders charge a lot more. Professional breeders usually conduct health testing for the parents. Elbow and hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy are the two main tests to look for when adopting a GSD puppy. Prenatal care for the mother can be expensive. These costs can include bloodwork, ultrasounds, and X-rays. Most breeders raise the puppies for the first eight to 12 weeks. They provide nutrition, a living space, socialization, and sometimes early training. Puppies typically receive veterinary care, including a first round of booster shots and a deworming treatment. Colors German Shepherds can come in a few different colors. Black and tan and black and cream are the most common GSD colors. However, there are rarer colors, like black and silver, sable, or black. These colors meet the official breed standards, and a puppy with an unusual color can be worth more. Bloodline and Purity One of the key factors that influences the cost of a GSD puppy is the parents and their pedigrees. A breeder will look at how well the parents match the AKC breed standards. Both parents should be the right height and color. They should have a muscular morphology and the proper head shape. Breeders who are able to trace the ancestry of a litter over several generations and document that all the ancestors are purebred GSDs will charge more. You should also expect to pay more if a breeder can provide health testing information over several generations. Titles are another important factor. Show dogs can receive V, VA, or VA1 titles if they do well at an event and judges determine they meet all the standards of the breed. An IGP3 title indicates that a dog can protect its owner. Parents with IGP or IPO titles produce puppies that are worth more since breeders consider these animals to have excellent potential for training. A breeder who has an excellent reputation and many positive online reviews will attract more prospective dog owners and can afford to charge more. You can protect your dog with a microchip, but there are other steps you can take. The Fi GPS tracking dog collar helps you keep your dog safe. The design is highly resistant and waterproof for durability, and the collar comes with a battery that lasts three months. You can track your pet anywhere and locate them easily if they get lost. There are a few things you should know about this working breed. Personality of the German Shepherd German Shepherds are fiercely loyal. They make excellent guard dogs thanks to their protective instincts. They also make amazing pets who will give you lots of affection. GSDs are reliable and hardworking dogs who thrive if you constantly give them new tasks and challenges. These dogs are extremely versatile. German Shepherds have amazing potential and tend to do extremely well in training thanks to their drive and intelligence. However, they require consistent training and handling since they can be mouthy, chase prey, or become overprotective without the right training. Size and Weight German Shepherds are medium to large dogs. When it comes to weight, a healthy male will weigh 66 to 88 lbs. Lifestyle and Activity Levels German Shepherds are a working breed. Their origin dates back to the 19th century when dog breeder Max Von Stephanitz developed a new dog by breeding different herding dogs. Like all shepherds, GSDs have a strong need to stay active. Due to their athletic build, these dogs need at least two hours of exercise every day. Going for walks might not be sufficient. Your GSD will thrive if you provide plenty of opportunities to use their athletic abilities, including jumping, swimming, or running. Approximate Lifetime Care Costs The total cost of owning a German Shepherd is difficult to estimate since every animal is different. German Shepherds can be expensive. Here are a few tips to help you lower the cost. Look for a breeder who cares about the animals and who does health testing on the parents, but everything else is extra. You should also consider adopting a dog with an unknown lineage. Check local shelters or go online to look at classified ads. Check classified ads to find owners rehoming their pets. If you decide to get a German Shepherd, think about using the Fi GPS dog collar to keep your dog safe, and make sure you can bring your puppy home if she gets lost. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Apart from recurring costs such as dog food, toys, and grooming essentials, a great chunk of your finances must go to routine veterinary care and pet insurance. Annual check-ups should be done on adult German Shepherds to check their physical condition and ensure they are healthy dogs. This involves listening to the heart and checking the ears and eyes. The typical lifespan of a GSD is 7 to 10 years. Other Potential Expenses Owning a dog is already comparable to parenthood. German Shepherds, much like any other dog breed, have other needs that go beyond food, water, and shelter. Your dog will be watched over, fed, and socialized with other dogs. Grooming Services: For your GSD to have a well-maintained coat and appearance, you should take them to a professional grooming salon. They will be cleaned, trimmed, and pampered as they deserve. Emergency Treatment: Dogs grow up so fast. As your German Shepherd puppy gets older, they are more prone to health issues like hip dysplasia. Sudden injuries can also happen that will require immediate medical attention and treatment. This will allow them to join various dog shows and other competitions. Places to Find German Shepherd Puppies for Sale and Adoption Once you plan everything out financially, you are ready to find places where you can buy your German Shepherd puppy. Cheap German Shepherd dogs can be bought from puppy mills or a backyard breeder. Buying from responsible breeders is the best option to get healthy puppies that will grow up to be strong adult dogs. To help on your quest, here is a list of breeders certified by the American Kennel Club that offer high-quality German Shepherd puppies: Vom Ragnar German Shepherds — This is a small kennel located in Illinois dedicated to breeding show-quality German Shepherds with sound temperament and the best condition because they have their puppies undergo health testing. This breeder strives to match their GSD pups to the most suited families. Mittelwest German Shepherds — As a well-renowned breeder, the owner ensures that they only produce show-quality German Shepherd puppies that can serve as show dogs, guard dogs, K-9, and much more. They also import and ship their dogs worldwide. West Coast German Shepherds — If you are located in California, this breeder can offer you a health-tested German Shepherd puppy coming from the best bloodlines. Buying the cheapest puppies online seems tempting, especially if you are on a budget, but you might spend more in the future due to medical expenses. To easily distinguish a responsible breeder from a puppy mill or backyard breeder, check out our puppy buying guide. Are you considering adopting a German Shepherd instead of buying from a breeder? If you are, this list can help you find the perfect GSD pup for you: German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions — Based in North Carolina, this non-profit organization was established to protect and promote the German Shepherd breed. German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County — This volunteer organization is all about placing unwanted, neglected, and abused German Shepherds into permanent, loving homes. Applicants are encouraged to meet up with their chosen dog prior to adoption. Matching their rescue dogs to a suitable owner is their top priority, along with the restoration of their health. For more chances of finding your lifelong companion, check out this list of the 10 best German Shepherd rescues. You can surely find one in your location! Adoption is the cheapest alternative to getting a German Shepherd Dog, and this is more suggested than buying from backyard breeders. Buy high-quality items. You will spend more on replacing them rather than having good products that can last for a longer time. Purchase supplies in bulk. When buying food or treats for your pup, make sure to stock up by buying them in bulk. This can save you a lot of money than buying small bags of kibble or cans of wet food. Keep your dog in excellent shape. To avoid expensive veterinary bills, keep your German Shepherd puppy fit and healthy. Do this by feeding them high-quality dog food equipped with the right nutrients. Groom your GSD at home. Instead of going to a professional groomer, learn to groom your German Shepherd puppy at home. All you need to do is buy the basic grooming tools and research how to groom your dog effectively. Plan your finances accordingly so no one will have to suffer in the long run. They are highly intelligent and loyal dogs that will protect you at all costs. Buying one from a reputable breeder is worth the hefty purchase price than purchasing from backyard breeders or puppy mills. On another note, you can adopt from a local rescue organization, but make sure to ask about any current health conditions that the dog may have. Aside from the financial aspect, make sure you are prepared for the full responsibility of being a German Shepherd puppy owner. Now you know how much German Shepherds cost, are you ready to own one? Share your thoughts in the comments below. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. If your breeder had not run these genetic tests on your dog—or if you adopt a German Shepherd from a rescue or shelter, you can run the Embark Dog DNA Test using a simple saliva test you can perform at home. Dogs with CLAD, type III typically exhibit symptoms such as recurrent ear infections, skin infections, pneumonia, and other respiratory infections. Dogs with DM first lose coordination in their hind legs, then they lose muscle mass and eventually the ability to walk. It is caused by a lack of one of the proteins needed for blood to clot properly. Dogs with hemophilia A will often suffer from uncontrolled bleeding, most commonly into the joints. Uric acid is a waste product that is normally eliminated from the body through the kidneys. When the kidneys are not able to remove enough uric acid, it builds up in the blood and can cause health problems. Dogs with hyperuricosuria are at risk for developing bladder stones, kidney stones, and other health problems. P-glycoprotein is involved in the transport of drugs and other molecules across cell membranes. Drugs that are known to cause adverse reactions in MDR1 dogs include digoxin, ivermectin, loperamide, and milbemycin. There are several different types of MPS, each caused by a deficiency in a specific enzyme needed to break down mucopolysaccharides. It is caused by a genetic mutation that impairs the ability of the blood to clot properly. This can lead to frequent and sometimes severe bleeding events which can be difficult to control, even with the help of medications. Dogs with this condition are at an increased risk for bleeding and may require lifelong monitoring and medical management. Symptoms include weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, and increased water consumption. Affected dogs have problems with the development of their skin, hair, nails, and teeth. They may also have problems with sweating and the function of their tears and salivary glands. Dogs with this disorder usually have a very thin coat of hair, often with areas that are bald or have very thin hair. Their skin may be dry and cracked, and they may develop sores on their skin. Nails may be abnormally shaped or missing altogether, and teeth may be missing or poorly developed. Dogs with X-linked ectodermal dysplasia often experience overheating. Attend a sanctioned dog show and talk with breeders and competitors for recommendations. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations regarding reputable breeders. Check the Facebook page of the breeder and read through the comments. Remember, however, that comments can be deleted by the page owner. The breeder should be happy to share the name and contact information for customers. Ask questions. Lots of questions. The breeder should be glad to share the test results from the health tests and screenings and should be happy to let you meet at least the mother if not the sire as well of the German Shepherd Dog puppies. Ask how often the dogs are bred. Ask to tour the kennels. Are they well maintained? Do the dogs look healthy? Beware of operations that will not let you tour the kennels and breeders that want to meet you in a parking lot to hand over the puppy. Be prepared for questions. The breeder should ask YOU questions as well; be suspicious if the breeder has no questions about your past history with pets, your living situation, etc. The breeder should want to know how much experience you have with herding breeds, what your training plans are and your plans for exercising the dog. Ask if the breeder will take the German Shepherd puppy—or adult dog—back if necessary. Ask for a contract. If medical problems are diagnosed, the breeder should readily take the pup back and provide a full refund. German Shepherd breeders may adopt out of the area but, nonetheless, you will want to go to the breeder to meet the parents, view the kennels and bring home your puppy in person. This will add to your expenses—but breeders that transport a puppy by air are putting the dog at risk. If you want to buy a German Shepherd Dog from an online breeder, please think again. There are numerous scams; people spend thousands of dollars for a dog and never receive a puppy. AKC warns potential pet parents to be wary of any seller asking for payment by Venmo, in gift cards or as a wire transfer. Dogs purchased from puppy mills can mean years of heartache and expensive veterinary care—and perpetuation of a cruel industry. The pros of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder: You may be able to select a puppy—including a choice of gender. A reputable breeder will be passionate about German Shepherds and will a resource for years to come. The cons of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder You will pay far more for a cattle dog from a breeder than a rescue or shelter. If you find a breeder who has German Shepherd puppies for sale at prices much lower than you are seeing from other breeders, you must suspect you are dealing with a backyard breeder who has not done health screening, with an online seller who is operating a puppy mill or with someone who is running a scam. You will need to wait until puppies are available. You will need to do your own due diligence to select a reputable breeder. German Shepherd Dogs in rescues are far less expensive that those at a breeder. Puppies under a year old will be the most costly. This group provides funding to a network of GSD rescues — they do not have dogs themselves for adoption. They have a list of affiliated rescues that can help located adoptable GSDs in your region. A breed rescue is, like the name suggests, a pet rescue that is specifically for one breed of dog. These are generally small non-profit groups that operate through a foster system of volunteers who love the breed. German Shepherd rescues specialize in German Shepherds of all ages; some have primarily purebred German Shepherds while others may also have adoptable Belgian Malinois and Dutch Shepherds. How to Find Breed Rescues Along with the list mentioned above, many breed rescues list their adoptable dogs on large adoption sites such as:. If you are looking to buy a German Shepherd puppy, then you should find one from a reputable breeder. While these puppies are more expensive, a reputable breeder can guarantee the health and behavior of the puppy. These dogs are prone to genetic diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia. These health issues can be avoided by genetically testing the parents, which is something reputable breeders usually do. When improperly raised puppies might have behavioral issues and can cause a lot of damage if they bite someone. A good breeder will have their dogs pass a temperament test. German Shepherd Dog Price While most dogs in shelters are adults, adopting a German Shepherd is a great way to find a dog without supporting unethical breeding. Sometimes these hardworking shepherd dogs are given up because they are very energetic. Not everyone is able to take care of a dog that needs a lot of attention and exercise. Some people buy a German Shepherd puppy without understanding the work involved in caring for this breed. Why Are They So Expensive? Breeding a healthy and well-behaved German Shepherd puppy is not easy! It is not as simple as crossing German Shepherds together. However, if you want a puppy of good temperament that is genetically healthy, there are other costs involved in the breeding and raising. This is especially important for a German Shepherd. You do not want a puppy that grows up to be aggressive or that suffers from mobility issues due to hip and elbow dysplasia. Papers A paperless German Shepherd puppy will be the cheapest. Typically breeders invest as little as possible in these pups. You get a puppy just how it is, without knowing its pedigree or background. A puppy with health certifications, temperament test results, and registration papers costs more than this. However, those papers will be beneficial not just for you, but also the puppy. This means your puppy meets the breed standard and is a purebred dog. The last thing you want is to buy a German Shepherd wolf-mix thinking it is purebred. Veterinarian Visits Reputable breeders not only genetically health test the parents, but they will also take the puppy to see a vet before 8 weeks for a basic health check. During these visits breeders will also have the puppies vaccinated, dewormed and placed on preventatives. When you buy a German Shepherd puppy from a reputable breeder, they will offer you a health guarantee. Most will also be able to provide you proof that the puppy has passed a temperament test. Training Some breeders also take the time to socialize and train their puppies. Many experienced breeders have a specialized training program that begins the process of potty training and basic obedience. This will mean you have an easier time housetraining your puppy, but you will have to pay for their efforts! These are all good signs that the puppy you are buying is of good quality. This will mean you are more likely to avoid any temperament issues or having to pay for vet visits to diagnose and treat hip and elbow dysplasia. Bloodlines Breeders who focus on breeding championship bloodlines will charge more for their puppies. A family might not need such a high-quality German Shepherd. All they need is a healthy and well-behaved puppy that will bring them years of happiness. However, there are many people who need a working dog or show dog. The most expensive dogs are those that are bred to be champions or protective and hard-working. Some breeders spend thousands of dollars just training a world class service dog. A family friendly guard dog with a protective temperament is not easy to breed consistently. Breeders have to factor in not just the genetics, but also the temperament and training. Origin The most expensive types of German Shepherds are those that are imported directly from Germany. Breeders must pay to stud and import these dogs which is not cheap. Since the German Shepherd breed originated in Germany, breeders in the US import dogs from Germany to breed puppies with a purebred lineage. Breeding in Europe is more regulated so the bloodlines are better protected. These puppies are known as European German Shepherds and are slightly different. They are smaller, have straighter backs and brighter coat colors. Some people think they look similar to a belgian malinois. Most European dogs are bred to be working dogs, while American dogs are more frequently bred for companionship. This is the same for American and German Rottweilers and American vs. European Dobermans. All of these breeder will be able to provide: Pedigree and kennel club registration. Documents that certify the puppy is free of any disease and has been checked by a veterinarian. A health warranty. Health records that guarantee the parents are genetically healthy and will not pass on elbow or hip dysplasia. These German Shepherd breeders all breed their puppies in accordance with the breed standard. None of them will sell puppies that are not registered with the American Kennel Club. Another good place to start looking for breeders is the American Kennel Club marketplace. Many of these puppies are bred to be family dogs and come with their papers. As you start looking into more well-known breeders or those that produce dogs of championship or working bloodlines, then the price of a German Shepherd starts to increase. Julia was a German Shepherd bred by the Harrison K-9 facility, highly trained in protection. She could also understand commands in three different languages. Her intelligence, as well as her ability to protect, were why she was priced so highly. Julia was bought by a billionaire businessman in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The rarest coat color is panda, which is why it is also the most expensive. These German Shepherds are black and white. It is a piebald pattern where the black coat is splotched with large patches of white. Some puppies can have other colors like tan, instead of white. Panda dogs are purebred, but the rarity of this mutation makes them very hard to find. There are very few breeders that sell the panda color. And he actually cost nothing! By the end of his life, Rin Tin Tin had appeared in 27 Hollywood films. Rin Tin Tin most notably helped Warner Bros. But these dogs come in more than just this classic color! There are 11 colors that are recognized by the breed standard. Check out the table below for some German Shepherd prices based on coat color. The tan color covers the chest, belly and legs. White A white puppy has a furry coat that is entirely white, allowing it to blend in with the snow. Its eyes and nose are black as coal. Black A black German Shepherd has a coat that is entirely black. Any other color would classify them as a bi-color. Blue A blue German Shepherd is not literally blue, but has a gray color with a bluish hue. Sable The sable color is one of the most common colors, but is a bit more interesting than the black and tan. The hairs of these dogs have bands of tan and black, giving them a very unique coloring. Some of the factors that contribute to this cost are: Food. Adopt German shepherd dogs and puppies from petsworld. German shepherds are so adaptable and intelligent that they have performed just about every job known to dogs. From his striking size to his straight ears and dark eyes, this breed of dogs has achieved a legendary status as an ideal canine. Owing to their remarkable intelligence, these dogs can perform plethora of works, such as leading the blind, detecting illicit drugs, bringing down fleeing criminals and serving in the armed forces. These loyal, energetic, and devoted canines have become quite popular among pet lovers all over the world. Further, they have excelled in almost every canine sport, including obedience, agility, tracking, rally, and of course herding. All these notable features of these dogs have increased their demand. You should always buy German shepherd from the certified pet breeders and not from pet shops or puppy mills. Always see the health certificate of their parents to minimize chances of any genetic disorder. German shepherd dog breed information General Information:. If a breeder tries to tell you that his puppies are healthy because their parents never had any issues — do not believe him! It is impossible to diagnose e. Where can you find cheap German Shepherd Dogs? The question is — do you want to purchase a dog with questionable health and temperament? These dogs often are not purebred German Shepherd puppies, but are mixed with e. Labradors, Pitbulls or Golden Retrievers. If you end up with a dog with genetically based health conditions however, be prepared to spend a multiple of the original purchase price on vet costs! Temperament and behavior While a lot of good manners can be taught through consistent training, temperament is genetic to a certain level. When you buy an extra cheap German Shepherd puppy, you not only get a dog with questionable health, but also with unpredictable temperament! Even aggression can be genetic and can be passed on from the mom and dad to the offspring. You can save yourself a lot of time, nerves and money spent on future behavioral training by getting a well-bred and more expensive dog. What is the most expensive type of German Shepherd? Like in many dog breeds, certain rare German Shepherd colors are much more expensive than the most common colors and patterns. It is much more important that your puppy has a sound temperament and fits in well with your family and lifestyle than that he has a certain rare look. These dogs are mutts German Shepherds mixed with Miniature Poodles, Shelties or other smaller breeds. Once more, be certain to not decide on your future dog based on looks alone. A stable temperament and good health is much more integral than a certain size or weight. Working lines vs show lines The German Shepherd was originally bred as a working dog. Since his original use as a shepherd dog however, he has filled many different roles — from guarding properties over being used in the show ring to participating in Schutzhund and IPO trails. Depending on which lines your German Shepherd Dog comes from, the prices can vary a lot! Show line German Shepherds are the dogs that are bred for conformation shows. These are the type of dogs you should decide on if you would like a shepherd puppy as a pet and companion animal. If you are interested in using your German Shepherd as a protection dog and to participate in IPO trials, you should pick one from working lines. There are a lot of highly successful working line breeders both in North America and Europe. For this price, you get an absolutely flawless dog with extensive skills and perfect obedience. Some US dog owners interested in Schutzhund choose to import a puppy from old European working lines. While this might sound insanely high for a pet dog owner, for Schutzhund enthusiasts it is a typical price for a pedigreed German Shepherd pup. How much does it cost a month to own a German Shepherd? This will cover the basics: high-quality food and regular vet checks. Some German Shepherd owners spend considerably more money. Professional grooming is necessary for many German Shepherd owners, as these dogs shed heavily. This breeds tends to exhibit several behavioral issues that can be difficult to fix for first-time dog owners, including: Separation anxiety.
Hiding treats for your dog to find. Obedience training Grooming The White German Shepherd is a heavy-shedding dog with a double white coat and requires regular brushing. Ideally, a White Shepherd should be groomed every other day, possibly daily, during the peak shedding season. Male vs. Female While for many animal species, the female is larger, with the German Shepherd, it is the males that are larger. While German Shepherds are all loyal and loving family dogs, it is often noted that females are more docile than males. This makes a female Shepherd a better choice for homes with young children. A female White Shepherd reaches sexual maturity at two years of age and has a litter of between five to ten puppies. They have an intelligent and fearless personality and are eager to learn and please. These traits make them wonderful family pets. A determined personality also makes shepherds adept at being working dogs. The White German Shepherd is a loyal and loving dog that quickly forms an unshakable bond with its family and is fiercely protective of them. It is vital for all dog owners to understand that training is important. Any German Shepherd breed needs to be trained and socialized correctly. Failing to do so leads to problems with jealousy and distrust of strangers. White German Shepherd Health and Care All dogs come with their own potential health problems and care requirements. For the White German Shepherd, there are several critical quality-of-life considerations to make. While both White and regular German Shepherds suffer from a lot of the same health issues, there are some with a higher prevalence in white breeds. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is one of the most common health issues faced by White German Shepherd dogs. Caused by a misformation of the hip joint, dysplasia is a painful condition resulting from bone-on-bone grinding. While it can be seen in White German Shepherd puppies as young as four months, it is more common in older dogs. It can be treated with the help of CBD Oil for hip dysplasia. Sadly, this painful condition is very prominent in German shepherds. This is largely due to their combined size and energy levels. Unfortunately, arthritis is a progressive condition that cannot be cured. In the White GSD, arthritis is more common in their hind legs than in their front. Gastric Bloat Gastric bloat is the common name for a serious medical complaint known as gastric dilatation volvulus GDV. Bloat commonly occurs in larger dogs, particularly German Shepherd breeds. There is no time to waste with this condition. If a dog is showing signs of bloat, they need immediate medical attention, as it could quickly become fatal. Canine Degenerative Myelopathy CDM Canine degenerative myelopathy is a degenerative disease that affects the spinal column. German Shepherds are one of the most commonly affected breeds. The result of CDM is commonly rear-leg paralysis. Middle-aged dogs between 4 and 14 years are more likely to be diagnosed with CDM. Pay attention to any limping or signs of motion impingement. Other Diseases Deafness is another disease that is more common for the White German Shepherd than other breeds. As a general rule, deafness is a common health concern for white-coated dogs and other animals. Some of the core allergies that affect this breed are related to chicken, wheat, and dairy. Dental decay is also a serious problem that is frequently observed in German Shepherds. More so with them than many other breeds. Using dental chews in combination with a healthy diet is a great way to promote healthy teeth and gums. They love to be challenged, while their loyalty sees them eager to please. While Shepherds make great pets, it is important to train them from a young age. Below are five training tips for White German Shepherds. Be consistent: White and other German Shepherds all respond better to training when there is consistency to things. Everything from your manner to the commands you use needs to be consistent from one training session to another. Layer your training in easy-to-iterate steps. Master one of two commands before introducing something else. Be a leader: It is important to remember that dogs are looking for you to be a leader and not a dominator. You must be prepared to take charge rather than use aggression as a training tactic. Communicate properly: Dogs do not communicate the same way humans do. It is important to understand the right way to communicate with your White Shepherd. Short and clear commands yield the best results. Also, avoid using similar-sounding commands, as these are likely to confuse your dog. Practice positive reinforcement: Never punish a dog for not doing well in training or for struggling to recognize a command. Instead, positive reinforcement is the recommended training practice. Reward your furry friend for every good deed. However, the exact costs will vary depending on where you are and the size of the litter. The price also relates to buying White Shepherd puppies from a recognized breeder and not from a puppy farm or through shelter adoption. White German Shepherds are different from other German Shepherd dogs in so far as they have a white coat rather than the traditional tan and brown. However, genetically, there is no difference between White Shepherds and other shepherds. The difference between them is that the White German Shepherd carries a recessive white gene that changes its fur color. This is the same way some humans are born with blond hair. Conclusion The White German Shepherd is the rare form of one of the most easily recognized dogs in the world. Wonderful family dogs. German Shepherds love to be part of the family. They struggle when home alone for long periods. Luckily, this breed is very good with children. The same as any other dog, White Shepherds need to be trained. Exercise is also crucial for this breed, as they can become destructive if they do not get enough physical and mental stimulation. If you work from home or have a family member at home a lot of the day, then a White German Shepherd is an ideal dog. Just make sure ahead of time that you understand the amount of work it takes to train a shepherd puppy from a young age. Whether you are a new or experienced dog owner, the White Shepherd is a great choice for your house. All dogs need love and affection, but the hyper-intelligent German Shepherd needs more than most in order for them to truly feel settled in their home. Luckily, the effort you put in is returned multiple folds in the affection your dog shows. Related Guide:. Our dogs have mellow, affectionate, and playful temperaments, love water, and especially children. They are living as trustworthy family members, as emotional support dogs, service dogs, and medical alert dogs around the world! Content Link Block Polarbear is our Name. Or perhaps just looking for the total package in a dog? Health and longevity remains the foundation of all we do. Take for example, the standard German Shepherd dog as seen in this photo: View fullsize …Dogs bred with these traits often end up with crippling disabilities and premature death. This is so inhumane. The focus of our kennel, on the other hand, is to produce dogs with straight backs, broad heads, and short coats, as in the photo of Polarbear's foundation sire, Shack Von Hammer below. Aside from their magnificent appearance, Polarbear White Shepherds are calm, sociable, and affectionate. They are gifted empaths and comedians at heart. Their goofy personalities and love of children make them perfect nannies for even the youngest child. They love water, retrieving frisbees, and diving into the occasional swimming pool. What kind of dogs do all that? And they are living fulfilled lives, as medical detection dogs, service dogs, and family and companion dogs in nearly every state in the United States! World Map of our Clients Before leaving, you might like to click on some of our pages. Our "Words of Warning" for those purchasing a purebred dog for the first time on the internet is a favorite. Just remember this quote…. No amount of training or special food will fix a problem dog. If you want to view videos of our dogs, check out our Youtube Channel page. If you appreciate our breeding philosophy and love what we do, do let us know by becoming a fan! This unique dog is bred from German Shepherds and carries many of the same characteristics, yet it also carries the recessive white furred coat gene. Read on below to find out more about this special breed of dog and whether they could be the right pup for you. This is because the White German Shepherd carries the recessive white furred gene, which is just the same as some humans carrying the recessive blonde haired gene. This color never really stuck, and therefore the White German Shepherd never became as popular as other colors of German Shepherds. They are very popular working dogs who are known for their work as police dogs, military dogs and herding dogs. They are also very popular family dogs because of their loyalty and protective nature. They were first discovered by Von Stephanitz who spotted the German Shepherd at a dog show and decided that this breed was the perfect standard for a working dog. Horand was the first breed standard for the German Shepherd breed and was bred alongside dogs with a similar appearance to give German Shepherd litters. They are thought to have first appeared in the United States in and were recognized by the AKC in .Appearance White German Shepherd puppies look like little balls of fluff and are extremely cute! By 1 year of age, they should be at their adult height. You should always buy from a reputable breeder because sometimes breeders try pass off German Shepherd mixes for pure white German Shepherds. The White German Shepherd can weigh anywhere between 50 to 85 pounds with a male weighing more than a female. They are classified as a large dog breed and stand tall at 22 to 26 inches at the shoulder. Again, females are normally shorter than the males. They are a very muscular and athletic breed, which is no surprise because they were bred for their working capabilities. They are very strong and wear a proud posture and have erect ears. Their feet are big too, even when they are puppies! Coat The White German Shepherd has two different types of coat — short coat and long coat. If your White German Shepherd has a long coat, it will typically be much longer than other German Shepherds in the breed. The fur is thick and straight and does require quite a bit of grooming, although we will go into more detail about that below. When they are a puppy, their coat is normally super fluffy. It does become more coarse as they get older, but their ears remain fluffy. Their coat is also a double-coat which helps add protection against harsh winds or rain. Color Of course, the coat color of the White German Shepherd is white! This is what makes them stand out and a unique breed. The white coat recessive gene only impacts the fur color and does not have any effect on their skin or eye pigment. This makes identifying a white German Shepherd very simple and also closely resembles their wolf ancestors. In every other aspect, they mirror the appearance of a standard tan German Shepherd with the same dark brown eyes. They are very protective and make excellent guard dogs or watchdogs. They are also extremely loyal and love to be around people, which makes them a great family dog as well as an excellent working dog. They may also bark at strangers, but this is just because they are trying to protect you! A White Shepherd is an active dog and needs to be mentally stimulated. As we mentioned above, they are originally a working dog and love to be outside running and playing. Lifespan The life expectancy of a White German Shepherd is relatively long. They can live between 12 to 14 years. Many of the problems they are more likely to develop are the same problems that other breeds of German Shepherd deal with. The most common health problem for the German Shepherd dog breed is elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. Dysplasia is a condition that is seen in many large dogs and is a disease of a malformation of the joints. The joints can become very painful and may worsen over time causing lameness. The best way to ensure your pup is less prone to any of these conditions is to buy from a reputable breeder and to ensure you get health clearances from both parents. You should also check your dog often for any signs of these issues and take them to the vet regularly for checkups. Daily Life Now you know all about the characteristics and traits of this unique German Shepherd breed, it is time to take a look at what daily life with them is like. We will look at what to feed this dog, how much exercise they need and what grooming of this big breed should be. It comes as no surprise that this is a high maintenance dog breed, but they are worth it! It is recommended that you feed them a diet specially formulated for large dog breeds and you should always check the back of the dog food packet to see how much food you should be feeding your doggie based on their weight. Experts recommend that a White German Shepherd should be eating around calories a day, which is around 3 cups of food. As a puppy, they should be fed three times a day which can then be decreased to two meals a day as an adult. However, if you have a busy lifestyle then this can just be one meal a day. Their food should be healthy and nutritious. It should cover all the nutrients that a dog of this size needs, including proteins, fats and carbohydrates. High-quality dry kibble is a great option, although some dog owners opt to feed their pup raw food. Exercise It is not a surprise that this breed of white dog is very active and has high exercise needs. As a working dog and a breed that is often used as a police dog, they need lots of mental and physical stimulation to keep them happy. You should ensure that you are exercising your German Shepherd for 60 to 90 minutes a day. This includes walks, playing and mental games. Your doggie will want a big back yard to run around in too, so they will not be getting the exercise they need if you live in a small apartment. Without adequate exercise, they can develop unwanted and destructive behaviors due to frustration and boredom. Family Compatibility A White Shepherd makes an excellent family dog. Because they are so loyal, they will want to protect you from anything harmful, which makes them an excellent guard dog. However, you will need to train them from a young age to understand that not everything is a threat, otherwise they may well bark for hours! We mentioned above how much exercise a German Shepherd needs. As a working dog, they need lots of physical and mental stimulation, so they are the perfect pet for those who are outside a lot. Because they are a large dog, they also need a good amount of space. This includes a back yard that they can run around in. Your German Shepherd will not thrive in a small apartment as they will feel like they are being cooped up and may begin to exhibit destructive behaviors. This breed does have a naturally high prey drive, so you will need to take care when introducing them to children for the first time. That being said, when socialized properly, White German Shepherds love children and will even take your children under their wing. The older your dog is, the harder it will be to introduce them to new things and people, but it still can be done. They also get on very well with other family pets, so there will be no issue there and they will become a loved family member. Training The White German Shepherd is a very intelligent dog and is therefore very easy to train. Their ease of training means that they make a great family dog as well as a dog for couples or individuals. You should train them from a very young age and always use positive reinforcement. This can include verbal praise and yummy treats to show them that they are doing a good job. German Shepherds can be a little stubborn, so you should never punish them or scold them. They are great detectives too, so hiding treats and getting them to sniff the treats out makes a fun game to play! Grooming Unfortunately, your White German Shepherd will shed all year round. This is because their coat is so thick. One way to minimize shed is to ensure that you brush them at least two to three times a week. Bathing is not necessary often — only when they look dirty. Brushing their teeth is very important to prevent dental decay and gum disease, although you can give them dental chews every day to help keep their teeth clean. One way to ensure that grooming your German Shepherd is not a traumatic experience for them is to begin grooming them from a young age. This will show them that there is nothing to be afraid of. Raising dogs for you and your family. Call or text .Every breed has different requirements, whether the space they must have or the amount of exercise they need. If you are not certain yet, check out our essential White German Shepherd breed info to find out everything about the White German Shepherd. How to find White German Shepherd puppies for sale? When buying a puppy, it is important to consider not only the pet but also the breeder. Because a responsible breeder will ensure their dogs come from the strongest bloodlines and have the best start to life. Ask about the health and temperament of their White German Shepherd pups as well as their living environment. But also find out about the breeder's practices and commitments. A good breeder will be happy to answer everything before you decide. After all, they will want to ensure that their dog goes to a good home. When you have done your research and got all the info you need, you can then choose the right breeder with confidence. To help ensure you choose a responsible breeder, all the White German Shepherd kennels you see listed here are verified by Pets4You. You will also find that the best breeders will provide a guarantee with their dog. This information, and more, is available on the breeder's website within Pets4You. Browse through our dog breeder directory with complete breeder profiles and current puppies for sale to find your dream dog. Disclaimer It is the duty of every person that is considering buying a puppy or dog to confirm all the information provided to them by the breeder is accurate. Pets4You makes no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the condition of any dogs offered for sale, the standards or practices of any breeder, the quality of their canines, or the accuracy of any information contained within our site. Pets4You does not endorse, recommend, or guarantee a particular kennel, breeder or dogs listed on the Pets4You website. For Buyers.
At 8, feet above sea level, crossing this part of Europe was extremely dangerous, with drifts of snow as high as 40 feet. During the late s, the monks bred powerful working dogs that were able to locate and rescue those trapped underneath the snow. Supposedly, these dogs never received formal training from the monks, with the younger dogs naturally learning how to perform these heroic rescues from the older dogs instead. The breed has adapted over the years, with other dogs like the Newfoundland being mixed into it. It has become larger than before with looks and personality being emphasized over its rescuing ability. However the St Bernard is still used for this purpose today, alongside being a popular family pet. Poodle Breed History: While commonly associated with the French, the Poodle actually originated as a duck hunter in Germany over years ago. Eventually, Poodles made their way from the lake to the life of luxury as they were the breed of choice by French nobles, and eventually royalty across all of Europe. To this day, the Poodle is still the national dog of France. The Toy Poodle started in the United States in the early 20th century to be a city-dwelling companion dog. On top of that, the gender of the puppy and the genetics of the parents play important factors as well. Saint Berdoodles are rarely, if ever, bred from Toy Poodles. A Miniature Saint Berdoodle will weigh in at around pounds and stand roughly inches tall. The Standard Saint Berdoodle, will weigh approximately pounds and stand about inches tall. Their fur can range anywhere from wavy, like the Saint Bernard to curly like the Poodle and usually is of medium length. A minimum of brushing once per week is required for Saint Berdoodles, with the ideal frequency being every other day if not every day for more curly-haired dogs. Are Saint Berdoodles Hypoallergenic? Do Saint Berdoodles Shed? While this can be true, due to the unpredictability of genetics, there is no guarantee that any particular dog, or litter of dogs will be hypoallergenic. For more details, check out our article on doodle generations as the examples apply directly to Saint Berdoodle dogs. However, due to the genetic diversity from crossing these two breeds, the result may be a lower chance of developing these inherited health concerns. Due to the cost of treating these common health concerns, we highly encourage all dog owners invest in pet insurance. We recommend getting a free online quote from Healthy Paws Pet Insurance. This is adorable but can go overboard if they become too clingy or develop separation anxiety. They are excellent with all kinds of pets as well as children as they are quite calm and gentle. Due to their large size, however, do make sure you keep an eye on them to prevent accidents with small children or elderly family members. While not typically aggressive, a Saint Berdoodle dog takes protecting their family seriously and make good guard dogs. Saint Berdoodles are fairly easy to train as they strive to please and catch on quickly. They are quite sensitive though, so make sure to use positive reinforcement and not an overly harsh or loud tone of voice. Depending how much they take after their Saint Bernard heritage, they can be content with just a short brisk walk each day. In fact, they actually can make good apartment dogs believe it or not! Saint Berdoodle Highlights Saint Berdoodles are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Saint Bernard or Poodle parents. Two common color combinations of Saint Berdoodles are white-and-brown and white-and-black. They can also be red with white accents or white with red accents. The coats of Saint Berdoodles can take after either parent—wiry and curly for the Poodle, or longer and smooth or rough for the Saint Bernard. Saint Berdoodles are generally pretty well-equipped for cold weather, especially if their coats are similar to Saint Bernards. Saint Berdoodles are great with people of all ages, including kids. The only concern with these dogs is their size with very young children. Be sure to supervise interactions with very young children in case of accidental stepping or sitting. These dogs do not enjoy being alone, so they would love the company of other pets and family members. Saint Berdoodle History Historical records show Poodles being bred in the s and Saint Bernards being bred in the s, both in Europe. Saint Berdoodle breeding is a little more vague, but it looks like they were bred intentionally in the US beginning in the s. The rationale to combine the protectiveness and rescue nature of the Saint Bernard with the intelligence and trainability of the Poodle for a family dog was strong. Between and alone, Saint Bernards rescued over 2, people. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up Saint Berdoodle rescues, or check with breed-specific Saint Bernard or Poodle rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Saint Berdoodle Size Though there is quite a range of sizes for Saint Berdoodles, you can expect a larger dog, in general. Saint Bernards are always large, and Standard Poodles are medium-to-large. In terms of height, the range is typically between 15 and 30 inches. There have been attempts at creating a Miniature Saint Berdoodle, with a weight between 20 and 50 pounds, and a height between 14 and 18 inches, but miniaturizing a Saint Bernard usually involves breeding with a smaller dog, too—most commonly the Cocker Spaniel. You can expect your Saint Berdoodle to be friendly and affectionate, always wanting to be part of family activities. The only reason you may need to supervise interactions with Saint Berdoodles and very small children is just that these dogs are often quite large, so accidents may happen with sitting or stepping. Saint Berdoodle Health Saint Berdoodles are fairly healthy dogs. While mixing breeds can be a way to minimize genetic disorders, the resulting crossbreed can still inherit health problems from the parent breeds. Regular care and annual veterinary check-ups are a good way to keep your dog in prime health. Some of the more common health problems for Saint Berdoodles include: hip dysplasia. People love the hypoallergenic coats of Saint Berdoodles, which are usually low-shedding or non-shedding. Saint Berdoodles have wonderful temperaments and are usually great with kids. Saint Berdoodles have hybrid vigor, which results from crossing two purebred dogs. Hybrid vigor typically results in a healthier offspring, and Saint Berdoodles have a much longer life expectancy than a purebred Saint Bernard. Purebred St Bernards usually live years; whereas Saint Berdoodles are usually expected to live years. Anyone who has owned and loved a Saint Bernard might wonder why anyone would get a Saint Berdoodle instead. There's a seven-fold answer for why Saint Berdoodles win the battle for many families. St Bernard vs St Berdoodle Hypoallergenic: St Berdoodles usually have low-to-non shedding coats like poodles and are typically far better for people with allergies than a purebred Saint Bernard, which sheds its coat. Health: Hybrid vigor typically improves a dog's health. There's a reason that humans don't marry our relatives. Saint Berdoodles tend to have fewer health issues than a pure Saint Bernard. Intelligence: Poodles consistently rank as one of the top if not THE top breeds for intelligence. Saint Berdoodles are very quick learners. Trainability: Usually the St Berdoodle's increased intelligence makes them an easy dog to train. Saint Berdoodles love pleasing their owner. Walking Partner: Although Saint Berdoodles are one of the lowest energy doodles, they tend to be more active than a somewhat lethargic purebred Saint Bernard who usually prefers to lounge all day. Although a Saint Berdoodle will not be an active runner like a Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, Aussiedoodle, or Springerdoodle, you can usually take a Saint Berdoodle for a long walk--more so than a purebred Saint Bernard. Nathan Crockett was one of the first breeders to raise top quality Saint Berdoodles. We have people from all over the U. Saint Berdoodle Pricing. Life Span Did You Know? Although a mixed-breed dog can take on any combination of traits from one or both of their parent breeds, well-socialized Saint Berdoodles tend to be affectionate and loving dogs with sweet natures and social personalities. This designer dog breed may not be recognized by the American Kennel Club, but they are still recognized by other notable dog organizations. The Saint Berdoodle is a gentle giant that makes a great addition to any family. Well-socialized, they tend to be social and friendly with charming, cheerful personalities. They also tend to be affectionate, loving, and highly intelligent dogs. These dogs can be good watchdogs as they are initially wary of strangers and will alert you when someone is on the property. Although Saint Berdoodles do tend to have a protective instinct over their family and territory, they tend to be quite social and friendly and do not tend to be aggressive provided they have been properly socialized and trained. Saint Berdoodles are moderately adaptable dogs. Due to their sheer size, they are better suited to larger homes with yards where they can run and roam freely. They could potentially adapt to apartment living if they are given enough exercise, attention, and mental stimulation, but their size will definitely be a challenge in smaller spaces. This dog adapts well to most moderate climates. As a large, fluffy dog, they are also sensitive to heat and can easily overheat. Because a Saint Berdoodle craves attention, bonds closely with their family, and loves being with them, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. A crossbred dog can inherit the potential health concerns common to one, both, or neither of the parent breeds. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of Saint Berdoodle puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to ensure that they are not passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask the breeder about the genetic history of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large dog, the Saint Berdoodle is also at a higher risk of bloat just like both parent breeds. Bloat in dogs can become dangerous quickly and is fatal if the stomach flips. Although the Saint Berdoodle will grow to be a giant dog, they tend to be gentle and highly trainable. Their high intelligence and eagerness to please means they pick up on things quickly and are relatively easy to train. This makes them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. They respond best to positive training methods that are calm and consistent and focused on reward and praise. Puppy training classes are always an option and can be a good opportunity to socialize a puppy, which is even more important in a dog this size. The maintenance your Saint Berdoodle requires will depend completely on the coat they inherit. But, they will require daily brushing and professional grooming every weeks. Once or twice monthly nail trimming is usually enough to keep them from growing too long and causing issues. You can also support your efforts to prevent dental diseases later in life with dental hygiene chews and treats approved by your vet. Saint Berdoodles tend to have a moderate energy level. They will be energetic while playing and require some exercise, but they will be happy to be a couch potato every now and then. Daily walks plus some time to play are usually enough for this big dog. They may not be a good fit for a running partner, but your Saint Berdoodle may enjoy going on hikes with you, taking trips to the dog park, or even going swimming. Just make sure you keep activities low impact until their bones and joints finish growing and developing. A fully-grown Saint Berdoodle usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. They are one of the largest dog breeds. Saint Berdoodles generally live for years on average. This designer dog breed is most commonly known as a Saint Berdoodle, but they are also sometimes called a Saint Berpoo. Featured Saint Berdoodle Article.
labrador retriever puppies for sale in northern virginia - Our dogs have mellow, affectionate, and playful temperaments, love water, and especially children. They are living as trustworthy family members, as emotional support dogs, service dogs, and medical alert dogs around the world! Content Link Block Polarbear is our Name. Or perhaps just looking for the total package in a dog? Health and longevity remains the foundation of all we do. Take for example, the standard German Shepherd dog as seen in this photo: View fullsize …Dogs bred with these traits often end up with crippling disabilities and premature death. This is so inhumane. The focus of our kennel, on the other hand, is to produce dogs with straight backs, broad heads, and short coats, as in the photo of Polarbear's foundation sire, Shack Von Hammer below. Aside from their magnificent appearance, Polarbear White Shepherds are calm, sociable, and affectionate. They are gifted empaths and comedians at heart. Their goofy personalities and love of children make them perfect nannies for even the youngest child. They love water, retrieving frisbees, and diving into the occasional swimming pool. What kind of dogs do all that? And they are living fulfilled lives, as medical detection dogs, service dogs, and family and companion dogs in nearly every state in the United States! World Map of our Clients Before leaving, you might like to click on some of our pages. Our "Words of Warning" for those purchasing a purebred dog for the first time on the internet is a favorite. Just remember this quote…. No amount of training or special food will fix a problem dog. If you want to view videos of our dogs, check out our Youtube Channel page. If you appreciate our breeding philosophy and love what we do, do let us know by becoming a fan! Raising dogs for you and your family. Call or text .Every breed has different requirements, whether the space they must have or the amount of exercise they need. If you are not certain yet, check out our essential White German Shepherd breed info to find out everything about the White German Shepherd. How to find White German Shepherd puppies for sale? When buying a puppy, it is important to consider not only the pet but also the breeder. Because a responsible breeder will ensure their dogs come from the strongest bloodlines and have the best start to life. Ask about the health and temperament of their White German Shepherd pups as well as their living environment. But also find out about the breeder's practices and commitments. A good breeder will be happy to answer everything before you decide. After all, they will want to ensure that their dog goes to a good home. When you have done your research and got all the info you need, you can then choose the right breeder with confidence. To help ensure you choose a responsible breeder, all the White German Shepherd kennels you see listed here are verified by Pets4You. You will also find that the best breeders will provide a guarantee with their dog. This information, and more, is available on the breeder's website within Pets4You. Browse through our dog breeder directory with complete breeder profiles and current puppies for sale to find your dream dog. Disclaimer It is the duty of every person that is considering buying a puppy or dog to confirm all the information provided to them by the breeder is accurate. Pets4You makes no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the condition of any dogs offered for sale, the standards or practices of any breeder, the quality of their canines, or the accuracy of any information contained within our site. Pets4You does not endorse, recommend, or guarantee a particular kennel, breeder or dogs listed on the Pets4You website. For Buyers. Please leave this field empty. Got our girl home to Minnesota. Little freaked out by the snow and the zero temps. She is doing great. She is a lovable sweetheart. Also fairly adventuresome. In and out of tight spaces outside and crawling over a pretty sizable and messy rock pile. Anyway, thank you. Tom Ziggy is awesome! My 3 yr old hugs and lays with him and he sleeps at the door of her room at night. Sara Thanks so much Doug. Proud to be the guardian of such joy. Thank you so very much, trust me when I say he will be loved and cherished. Take care. Sharon The puppy I received, 8 week old female Legacy was beyond my expectations, she was everything I was promised and more! Everyone who meets her loves her, she is the sweetest smartest thing. She is excelling in her obedience and her service dog training, I am very blessed for that. Thank you Doug! John B. Wells — former Coast to Coast talk show host, now at Caravan to Midnight. Our dog Luna is all you said she would be and more,beautiful,intelligent,we love her so much! Thank you, Heidi P. She is fantastic! We got him from you back in July .Ghost is the most amazing dog. He is the most loyal, the most loving, protective, and smartest dog I have ever known. Have a great day! The puppy has been started on its vaccination series, dewormed, vet checked, and given lots of T.
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labrador retriever puppies for sale in northern virginia - Breeds The link has been copied! The German Shepherd breed has always been popular in America. In fact, they have been ranked as number 1 in popularity throughout most of U. If a female German Shepherd dog GSD has joined your family, and you are thinking about breeding from her, you may be curious about how many puppies you should expect in one litter — as well as how many she might have over her years with you. On average, a German Shepherd can have puppies per litter. Some have as many as 15 or as few as one puppy per litter. On record, the biggest German Shepherd litter was 17 puppies by a dog named Mosha. The gestation period is approximately 63 days about two months after conceiving. However, this number may vary by several days. A German Shepherd dog can have two litters per year until around the age of 8. This means that a German Shepherd Dog can have approximately 14 litters in her entire lifetime. Well, the answer to this may help you understand the quantity of puppies they produce in a litter. The German Shepherd is native to Germany and is a cross breed between working sheep dogs and a dog believed to be a quarter wolf. They were originally bred to protect families and to herd livestock. Are there factors that affect the number of puppies a female German Shepherd can have? How many times in a year can they give birth? Knowing how many puppies to expect may help you plan resources to accommodate them if you are planning on becoming a breeder. A female German Shepherd with a small body will have a smaller litter size compared to a GSD with a bigger body. If you want a larger litter size, therefore, you should breed your German Shepherd before they are seven years or older. The best breeding years are between 2- 5 years of age. As the male dog ages, their sperm count decreases, and this affects the number of puppies in the litter. If you are a breeder, it is best to practice breeding when the male dog is in its prime years, between 2- 5 years. This way, you are likely to get a bigger litter size. The female should also have a healthy diet before breeding. Diet and health go hand in hand. A diet that consists of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates will help your GSD to have a larger litter size. Your vet will help you determine the perfect diet before, during, and after your dog's pregnancy. Although it may be nerve-wracking, you need to be there to help your German Shepherd give birth. A whelping box with a heating pad or a heating lamp will help keep the new-born puppies warm. New-born puppies are unable to regulate their body temperature, hence why the heating pad or lamp will come in handy. Heating pads: place them under the blankets or towels where the puppies lie. Make sure the setting is comfortable for them. At birth, they weigh about 0. German Shepherd dog puppies have four developmental life stages after they are born. You will notice the mother licking her puppies to clean them. Milk from their mother is very crucial at this age. They can begin eating some main foods but still nurse and feed on soft foods. By eight weeks, a puppy has all its teeth, and the teething process begins. At this time, you should ensure each puppy starts to wear a properly-fitted dog collar. For added security, choose a collar that allows you to track their location via GPS. Final Thoughts Owning a dog is a joyous experience, and when you own a German Shepherd, you have a loyal, smart, fierce, and protective dog for life. To add to that, German Shepherd dogs make good mothers and they know what to do during and after giving birth. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Fi smart dog collars make it easier than ever. German Shepherds, like other dogs, have a day gestational period. It is approximately nine weeks of total pregnancy, but a female German Shepherd can give birth as soon as 58 days or as late as 68 days. This day difference in the average length of German Shepherd gestation may vary depending on the number of puppies and the size of the mother. To put it simply, the more puppies there are, the longer it takes, and vice versa. In some cases, a pregnant German Shepherd may only have one puppy, while huge litters might produce up to 15 puppies. Generally, in canines, preterm delivery is uncommon, and most pregnant dogs deliver their puppies at full term. However, being a few days earlier or later is normal and is frequently caused by a wrong assessment of the date when a female German Shepherd becomes pregnant. Furthermore, if you know when your German Shepherd has mated, you can use a dog pregnancy calculator to acquire an accurate estimate of its due date. Many breeders or even seasoned owners find it difficult to tell if their German Shepherd is pregnant, especially in the early pregnancy stages. Furthermore, unlike humans, there is no at-home pregnancy test for animals. Veterinarians perform ultrasounds between 25 and 35 days of gestation. They will analyze the levels of relaxin , a pregnancy hormone that is taken throughout the breeding process, using a blood sample from dogs. The veterinarian will determine the exact number of German Shepherd puppies in the womb 55 days or more after breeding. Abdominal Palpation: It is a traditional way to detect pregnancy of German Shepherds. It is done around the 28 to day mark by looking for uterine swellings that indicate the existence of developing puppies. Although German Shepherds are independent during pregnancy, there are still a lot of preparations you must make before the puppies are delivered. Generally, the average age for a German Shepherd to get pregnant is around two years old, but it can be as early as five months old. Additionally, because German Shepherds are a large breed, it takes them a while to fully mature before getting pregnant. So, they must be at least 18 months old if you plan to breed them. Once they reach full maturity, German Shepherds can be pregnant during the fertilization period in the second stage of their heat cycle. The heat cycle of female dogs consists of proestrus , estrus , diestrus , and anestrus. During the proestrus stage, female dogs begin to attract males, which will last for nine days. Meanwhile, during estrus, a female dog is marked as available to a male dog, usually lasting for three to four days. Then, the diestrus is the final day of the reproductive cycle when the female dog will no longer permit mating. However, like other large dog breeds, a German Shepherd Dog has its first heat cycle in the latter months. Thus, there is no precise date at which it can get pregnant. Yet, you can expect your dog to be pregnant when it is six months old because it is when the anestrus phase occurs. It is the time elapsed between one heat cycle and the next. That said, knowing the four stages of the heat cycle is important for estimating how long German Shepherds are pregnant. Week 1 Within a few days after breeding, the sperm reaches the eggs, and fertilization occurs. Week 2 Fertilized egg cells will begin to develop, separate, and descend towards the uterus for implantation between the 12 and day mark during the second week. There will be no physical changes to the German Shepherd, but it will become either more affectionate or irritated. Therefore, getting your female dog groomed is advised to lessen its stress. Week 3 During the third week, the embryos will begin to travel to the uterine horns to embed themselves in the uterine wall. The embryos will continue to develop while receiving essential nutrients within the womb through the uterine lining. Some body parts, including the placenta and nervous system, will develop on the 18th day. The placenta will be fully formed by the end of this week. In addition, your German Shepherd may gain weight, and its abdomen might begin to swell. If you notice these changes, confer with your veterinarian, who will provide veterinary advice about the right food and diet plan for your pet. Week 4 This week is the most critical stage when a fetus develops facial features, limbs, and vital organs. So, your German Shepherd must avoid rough play and serve its food in smaller portions. This is also the optimal time to bring your German Shepherd for an ultrasound after the 25th day to know how many puppies your dog expects. Week 5 The fetuses develop their sex organs and begin to resemble actual puppies during this period. On day 35, all major organs of the puppies should already have developed. Thus, a pregnant GSD might increase her weight by 20 to 50 percent as it has growing puppies in its abdomen. Therefore, it will need more calories and nutrients than usual. Furthermore, it will avoid normal routines like walking and become more sensitive because of discomfort. Week 6 The puppies develop more rapidly and should have their skin colors. Their eyes remain closed but have lids, claws form, and their heads begin to grow hair for the first time. Furthermore, your female dog will be more uncomfortable and may occasionally vomit because of the increased pressure on its stomach. There will also be clear vaginal discharge, which is completely normal. It will also decrease appetite and produce a clear and odorless vaginal discharge. Furthermore, preparing a whelping box for your female dog to nest in and give birth within the next few weeks should be done during this period. Week 8 Puppies have grown fur and are swarmed into the uterus, moving towards the birth canal. Also, your German Shepherd Dog will spend the majority of its time in the whelping box digging in the bedding. It will also feel restless as its body grows, so give your dog the comfort and attention it needs, especially when it is in pain. You can also get an X-ray examination to determine how many puppies your German Shepherd will have. Week 9 During the last week of pregnancy, the puppies are now fully developed and ready to be born, moving toward the birth canal. You will notice that your German Shepherd may appear uncomfortable, restless, or anxious during this stage. Keep an eye on your dog as it seeks a safe place to give birth. To make your dog feel at ease and to avoid stress, keep your house clean and quiet. Afterward, you must start taking its rectal temperature every 12 hours. In this way, you always obtain the best possible outcomes and perhaps get to meet your litter of healthy puppies. German Shepherd Pregnancy Signs Apart from the fact that conception is unpredictable and varies from dog to dog, no noticeable physical changes occur during the early stages of pregnancy. Nevertheless, similar to people, there are some early signs and symptoms that can indicate if a German Shepherd is pregnant: Change in appetite. From then you then check for the common signs of dog pregnancy. Generally, dogs can start getting pregnant from around six months to fifteen months old. Large dogs, like your German Shepherd, will usually have their first heat in the latter months. So, as a general guideline, if your GSD is past six months old, you may consider the possibility of pregnancy. Note, however, that some of these may not be obvious, especially during the earlier stages. Vomiting Or Sickness. Similar to morning sickness in humans, your dog may exhibit some sickness in the early stages of pregnancy. She may have a drop in appetite and may sometimes vomit. Along with morning sickness, your dog may also exhibit fatigue in the early stages of pregnancy. Increase In Appetite. To accommodate for her puppies, your German Shepherd will show an increase in appetite and start to eat more food. Weight Gain. Your dog will also be gaining weight throughout pregnancy. Enlargement Of The Nipples. They may also discharge a small amount of clear liquid. Check With A Veterinarian While the signs may often be enough to confirm pregnancy, they may sometimes be inaccurate. In some cases, a dog may exhibit false pregnancy, a condition in which your dog may show maternal behavior and signs of pregnancy despite not being pregnant. To check, your veterinarian may use one of the following methods: Hormone Tests. Veterinarians will test for relaxin, which is a hormone produced only during pregnancy. This hormone test is accurate, but it does require your dog to be at least 30 days into the pregnancy. Otherwise, it will result in a negative. With this test, your veterinarian will confirm pregnancy by touching and feeling for fluid-filled sacs. These sacs form as the fetus develops, and can be felt between the 21st to 35th day of pregnancy. While usually used to determine the number of puppies, x-rays can also serve as a way to confirm pregnancy. So, it might be a bit too late for confirmation. As with humans, ultrasound also serves as a great way to confirm pregnancy in dogs. But not only do they detect pregnancy, but they can also determine if the fetus is alive by checking the heartbeat. Well, the standard duration usually lasts for 63 days, but it can fall from anywhere between the 58th and 68th day. Note that the actual date may vary depending on the size of the dog and the number of puppies. Thus, the day range. Week 2 In week 2, the fertilized eggs travel down to the uterus for implantation. At this point, your dog may start exhibiting slight behavioral changes such as becoming moody or more affectionate. Week 3 At this point, the embryos begin to develop. You can expect mood swings, appetite changes, and the start of breast tissue development. Other than that, continue with the usual routine. Week 4 On week 4, specifically on day 25, you should bring your German Shepherd to the veterinarian for a formal check-up. Through ultrasound, the veterinarian will be able to confirm the pregnancy, provide an estimate for the litter size, and catch any existing issues with the pregnancy. You should also continue providing exercise, but never to the point where your dog may over-exert herself. Week 5 The first stage of pregnancy, embryogenesis, ends at this point. Along with that, your dog will also have an increase in both weight and appetite. Your German Shepherd may experience a decrease in appetite as early as this point, so you may have to start serving smaller meals. Week 6 Around day 42, your dog will enter the third stage of pregnancy. In this stage, the fetal skeleton becomes solid, and its claws will start to grow. Expect both the fetus and your German Shepherd to gain weight. It is recommended that you feed her with a high-energy, high-protein diet through small meals throughout the day. Week 7 By week 7, the puppies will have developed some hair, and their bones have begun to take shape. This week, you should once again visit the veterinarian to check for parasites or worms that may cause infection. Your German Shepherd will also start shedding hair from her belly in preparation for the nearing birth. At this point, you should get ready for whelping by setting up a safe, quiet, and comfortable space for your dog. Week 8 By week 8, around day 50, the puppies will already have fur, and their skeletons will have solidified. Your German Shepherd teats will begin to swell, and she will also start lactating by this time. Your dog may also exhibit nesting behavior, characterized by restlessness and activity around the whelping area. To help your dog at this point, you may trim her hair around her nipples and vulva. Week 9 By week 9, the puppies are ready for birth and may come out on any day. Be sure the whelping area is prepared for birth. Line up the floor with towels and blankets for insulation and absorption of fluids. Your job at this point is to supervise and make sure your dog is comfortable at all times. You will, however, have to maintain the ideal temperature of around 86 degrees Fahrenheit during the first 24 hours after delivery. After that, you should then reduce and maintain a temperature of 77 degrees Fahrenheit to keep the puppies warm and comfortable. You may also tear open the fetal sacks your dog fails to tear. Just remember that whatever you do, do not pull the puppies free from the birth canal, as it could cause damage to both the mother and the puppy. In fact, if you encounter that or any of the following issues , take your dog to the veterinarian immediately: Active straining and contractions for 30 to 60 minutes without producing a puppy. Expelling foul smelling or bloody vaginal discharge. Muscle weakness, spasms, and lethargy. Post Birth And Recovery If everything goes well you can proceed to remove the soiled towels and replace them with clean bedding. Do so, however, only when you can do it without causing distress to both the mother and the litter. You can also clean the blood and birthing fluid off the mother, but not the puppies, by using a warm, damp cloth to help avoid any infections. Also, keep in mind that it is completely normal for the mother to continue leaking even after a few weeks after whelping. That said, if the leaks have an odor or are grey in color, consult with your vet, as it may indicate infection. Lastly, be sure to always check on your dog and her puppies. Make sure the mother is nursing her puppies, and if not, consult with your vet immediately. If she is, it will most likely cause an increase in her appetite, so feed her accordingly with high-protein food. At around weeks 5 and 6 you should start serving smaller sized, high-protein, high-energy meals. You may provide your dog exercise, especially at the earlier phases of pregnancy. Just be careful to never over-exert your dog. In general, a light stroll would be just fine. Regular Check-Ups. Be sure to work with your veterinarian throughout the pregnancy. As mentioned, take your dog to the vet on weeks 4 and 7 of the process. A healthy German Shepherd will be more likely to have a large litter. If your German Shepherd fails to expel a puppy after 2 hours of active strain and contraction, it may indicate the need for a C-Section. Also, if you notice any signs of weakness or illness in the mother, take her to the vet immediately. German Shepherd puppies may be born as black, gray, or white, which will change as they grow. Their true coat color will usually manifest at about eight weeks of age. There are a variety of reasons why your dog will eat her puppies. One of which is their instinct to rid the litter of unhealthy puppies through a mercy killing of sorts. Sometimes, however, it may be accidental or caused by stress or hormonal issues. Ideally, you should start breeding your German Shepherd after her second or third heat cycle, or at around two years of age. This one, of course, entirely depends on your intentions. Do you intend to breed your dog? If not, then you may consider spaying. Final Thoughts That wraps it up for this article on German Shepherd pregnancy. I hope I was able to provide the necessary information you need to get ready for the whole process. But in the end, it is a beautiful and straightforward process that leads to life. So bear through it and support your German Shepherd to the fullest. It will be worth it! Post navigation. Puppies If your German Shepherd is pregnant or you are planning on breeding you may be wondering how many puppies can a German Shepherd have. The amount of puppies each German Shepherd has will vary on many different factors. This article will answer dive into the factors to help you better predict the number of puppies your GSD will have. Generally, you can expect a German Shepherd to have between 5 and 8 puppies per litter. However, German Shepherds have had litters as large as 14 and as small as only 1. There are many factors that contribute to the size of the litter. A German Shepherd can have puppies twice a year. Large dogs like German Shepherds go into heat around every 6 months. During their heat is when they are capable of becoming pregnant. A normal heat cycle lasts between two and four weeks long. Thus, if you breeders or individuals who are looking to breed their GSD track their heat timing and plan to have them mate during their heat. German Shepherds are pregnant for nine weeks on average. Factors That Affect German Shepherd Littler Size Although it is normal for a German Shepherd to have between five and eight puppies a litter, there are many factors that can increase or decrease the litter size. The most common factors are below: The size of the female dog The size of the dog has a big impact of how many puppies they can carry. Although German Shepherds are considered to be a large dog breed some female German Shepherds are larger than others. A female GSD that is larger will be able to carry more pups than a smaller one. Inbreeding Another factor that can contribute to litter size is inbreeding. A pregnancy that is the result of inbreeding will generally produce less puppies than one that is not. Accordingly, if you want to increase your GSD litter size make sure not to bred a female with a male that is related. The age of female The age of the female German Shepherds also plays a role in their potential litter size. Older German Shepherds will generally have smaller litters. The prime age to breed a GSD is between 2 and 5 years of age. You should not breed an elderly GSD. Just like with human males, the sperm count of male German Shepherds will decrease as they age. This decrease can make it harder for them to get a female pregnant and can also impact the litter size if they do get a female GSD pregnant. Health of the female Another factor that is important is the overall health of the female German Shepherd. In order for any dog to produce a healthy plentiful litter of puppies the dog carrying the pups has to be in prime health. Leading up to pregnancy your dog should be fed a high-quality diet, and during pregnancy a GSD will require a diet in that a certain amount of protein, fat and carbohydrates to ensure a health pregnancy. Additionally, pregnant German Shepherds can sometimes need dietary supplements if they are not getting the appropriate nutrients through their diet. Conclusion There are many factors that impact how many puppies German Shepherds can have. Most commonly German Shepherds will have between five and eight puppies, but age, health, and inbreeding can cause a GSD to bear a smaller litter. Breeders who are looking to increase litter size will need to make sure that all those controllable factors are in line and let nature do the rest. But, considering we are there, we can do things to ensure everything goes safely, smoothly, and with good hygiene. And these tips will help with that. Be Accepting of Unusual Behavior During the heat cycle, your German Shepherd may exhibit behavior that is different from her norm. These behavioral changes can range from being overly affectionate or clingy to displaying signs of aggression. Restlessness, increased urination, or even a little moodiness may be part of this unusual pattern. Being accepting and patient during this time can help your dog feel more comfortable and loved. Also, noting these changes can assist you in tracking her cycle and predicting when the next one might occur, helping you be better prepared for these temporary shifts in behavior. Due to the discharge, your pet will need extra cleaning. You can use dog-safe wipes to clean her vulva area. Additionally, invest in doggy diapers or pants to manage the discharge and prevent it from staining your furniture or carpets. Remember to change these frequently to avoid infection. Also, brush her more often than usual to keep her coat clean and free of dried discharge. Provide a Comfortable Environment During the heat cycle, your German Shepherd may show signs of discomfort or restlessness. Make sure her environment is as comfortable as possible. This may involve giving her a quiet space to relax, away from the hustle and bustle of the house. Provide soft bedding, as she may want to nest. Also, keep the house temperature cool but comfortable, as some dogs may feel warmer than usual during their heat cycle. Keep Her Indoors and Supervised When a female dog is in heat, she emits a scent that can attract male dogs, even from a distance. This could potentially lead to unwanted pregnancy or fights with other dogs. To prevent this, try to keep your German Shepherd indoors as much as possible during her cycle, and never leave her outside unsupervised. If you need to walk her, keep her on a leash and be aware of your surroundings. Maintain a Balanced Diet and Hydration Although your German Shepherd may not show a significant change in appetite during her heat cycle, maintaining a balanced diet is essential. Continue to feed her high-quality dog food and avoid any sudden changes to her diet, which could cause digestive issues. Also, make sure she has constant access to fresh water. Hydration is particularly important during this period as your dog might drink more due to increased body temperature or hormonal changes. They can provide you with professional advice, spot any potential health issues, and recommend supplements if necessary. German Shepherds can get pregnant as early as 6 months of age. GSDs reach sexual maturity within months of age, meaning they can become pregnant if they are around intact males. However, this is not the recommended age for breeding. Young dogs can have complications if they become pregnant during their first heat cycle, causing many breeders to follow the month rule. Not only that but by this age, any underlying health issues would likely be detectable. And to do our part of responsible breeding we should only ever breed healthy dogs. Signs Your German Shepherd Is Pregnant If you have yet to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian, you can always observe your German Shepherd for any signs of pregnancy. While this may not offer you an accurate answer, it can certainly help you prepare for the possibility! Some of the most common signs of a pregnant dog include: Changes in appetite. Some dogs will be more hungry than usual, while others will feel nauseous and shy away from their meals. Decreased activity. A pregnant pup will often be more tired than usual due to the toll pregnancy takes on their body. Changes in behavior. Some owners note that their pregnant dogs were more clingy than usual, seemed less interested in normal activities, or were more irritable than ever before. Weight gain. Nesting behavior. Your pup may shred bedding, burrow into blankets, or even hide away on their own in certain spots. Our pups can display subtle changes in their behavior when they become pregnant, but there are only a few ways to know for sure. Ultrasound The first diagnostic tool for potentially pregnant pups is an ultrasound. An ultrasound can detect pregnancy earlier than any other diagnostic option, as it can display images of the puppies once your German Shepherd is at least 3 weeks along. Not only can an ultrasound diagnose pregnancy in your GSD, but it can be used to check the general health of the puppies. An ultrasound can measure fetal sacks, check for heartbeats, as well as offer an estimated puppy count. Physical Exam A physical exam from a veterinarian is another way to determine if your German Shepherd is pregnant. This can only determine the presence of puppies in the uterus, and cannot determine the overall health or life status of the puppies. This is not the most accurate option in terms of puppy counts or other searches, but it can offer a quick answer. X-rays X-rays are another way to determine if your German Shepherd is pregnant or not. This is often the last diagnostic performed during pregnancy, as puppies cannot be seen on film until the dog is about weeks along. X-rays are often used to measure the size of the pelvic canal, as well as obtaining an accurate puppy count. This can be used to determine if a dog will have birthing difficulties, and how many puppies you should expect during the birthing process. Pregnancy in our canine friends is much shorter than a human pregnancy. The average pregnancy in dogs ranges from days, coming in at just over 2 months. Final Thoughts Now that you understand each aspect of the heat cycle in German Shepherds, you can be in tune with their needs going forward. Be sure to review the information that we discussed above, and you can be better equipped for handling any pregnancy concerns that come your way. A simple Undercoat Rake and a Slicker Brush are by far the two best brushes to handle shedding. Best Online Training Program Brain Training For Dogs has become increasingly popular with highly intelligent working breeds in the last few years. Best Low-Calorie Treats Switch out the calorie-dense dog treats and opt for something healthier. The Puppy Mag makes an active effort to search for plagiarized content using plagiarism detection software. If plagiarized content is found, action will be taken. German Shepherd Breeding Age Male German Shepherds Male German Shepherds become fertile after six months of age but should not stud until they have reached sexual maturity. Although males can technically impregnate a female, they should not be allowed to mate until they are fully sexually developed, so at least one year old. Once an adult German Shepherd is sexually mature, he can mate at any time. If the dog is healthy, he may be able to keep his fertility and be sexually active for his lifetime. However, just because German Shepherds can reproduce and have puppies well into their senior years does not imply they should. German Shepherds enter their senior years around seven years of age, and as they get older, their fertility and ability to whelp healthy puppies diminish. The quality and amount of male sperm are affected by age. So although males could sire puppies at 9 or 10 years old, many breeders will check the sperm count monthly to check for quality. Furthermore, if their doggy partner consistently delivers smaller litters or the puppies are weak and unwell, a breeder may decide that the male dog is too old to sire puppies. Responsible breeders are patient and wait for the perfect German Shepherd breeding age. A female German Shepherd will have her first heat cycle around months old. This is when she can technically get pregnant, although you should never breed a female dog during her first heat cycle. Mating during the first season increases the chance of pregnancy complications, premature labor, and stillborn pups. Labor can become complicated and comes with risks, and older females can have difficulty producing milk. You should retire a female GSD from breeding around years old or after four or five litters. Like the UK Kennel Club, many breed associations have enforced an age limit of eight years for breeding female dogs, as found in their Assured Breeders Standard. However, this is for all breeds. German Shepherds, as a large breed, age faster. Understanding Female Heat Cycles When a female German Shepherd goes into heat, her body prepares itself for conception. Heat, breeding cycles, and periods are all terms that refer to the same thing. Although a German Shepherd stays in heat for around three to four weeks, her most fertile days begin days into the heat cycle. This heat cycle consists of four stages: proestrus, estrus, diestrus, and anestrus. This stage can last around days. She may even tuck in her tail to cover her vagina and keep males away. Estrus : This is the main phase in the GSD heat cycle when ovulation occurs. The female dog is now fertile and ready to mate, and she will follow her bodily instincts and accept a male. This stage lasts between days. The swelling of the vulva will go down. Estrogen levels are low, while progesterone levels slowly increase. The fertile window has now closed, and she will no longer accept males. Anestrus: This is the final stage of the heat cycle of your female German Shepherd and will last about four months. Most female German Shepherds will go into season twice a year. The ovarian activity of a female dog starts to decline in the fifth or sixth year of life. Waiting until the dam is physically and mentally mature enough to bear and raise a litter is essential, as is waiting until the sire is old enough. This allows any genetic or conformation issues to become apparent, making breeding a poor decision. But what are the health concerns if a German Shepherd conceives too early? Physical maturity. The dam must be physically mature to carry a healthy litter to term. If the dog becomes pregnant before she has fully grown herself, it will put extra strain on her body, and she may not be able to deliver her pups. Young dams may miscarry, have puppies with disabilities, or have stillborn pups. Mental maturity. Pregnancy and raising pups require maternal instincts and a mature mind. If the dam is too young to breed, she may not understand what to do and may reject her pups. However, most females over the age of 8 have a tough pregnancy and difficulty giving birth. Significant problems are common during labor, and a caesarian section may be required. Unfortunately, one or more stillborn puppies in a litter are pretty common in older dams. Older German Shepherds may also have trouble producing enough milk to nurse their puppies, who will die if not bottle-fed. Senior female dogs are also at risk of pyometra, a potentially fatal uterus infection. Due to all these risks and complications, most ethical breeders will retire their dams at around five or six years old. Pre-breeding Health Tests Both German Shepherd parents require proper care and conditioning to produce beautiful, healthy, strong puppies. Apart from good physical health, they also need to be in good mental condition. A mentally strong and happy female German Shepherd will make a better mother than one that is insecure or has an unstable temperament. Regular exercise and an excellent diet and nutrition are essential parts of conditioning before conception. Bitches should not be overweight and should have good muscle tone before mating. A month before breeding, the female German Shepherd should go through a pre-breeding examination by a vet. You need to check her for common breed-specific health problems, such as hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy. Vaccinations, flea, and worming treatments for both parents should be current. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. German shepherd dogs GSD , are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. They are loyal companions, among the smartest dog breeds, hardworking, and just gorgeous animals to behold. Due to the high demand, German shepherd breeding can be an appealing idea. There is a lot of thought that goes into dog breeding, which means many factors need to be weighed. With the GSD breed, there are many health concerns to consider that are associated with them. While this can be similar to other breeds, it is important to know what to consider and how it relates to when you should consider breeding. A German shepherd reaches sexual maturity around 2 years of age. There are a few other more general factors to consider as well, such as ages for testing viability and even emotional maturity in females. Health Screening Most health screening tests and vaccinations can be done at 2 years. Health considerations are paramount in the breeding process. Genetic testing can be done for hip and elbow dysplasia. This can be one of the most debilitating conditions that GSDs are at risk of. Genetic traits are important to be aware of, and screening is an important step in both potential mates. German shepherd breeding can make genetic testing even more important as there are a few conditions like the aforementioned dysplasia that these dogs can be predisposed to. Many of these conditions can be attributed to a great deal of inbreeding. This practice leads to genetic issues that have been passed down throughout the generations of the GSD breed. Some of the conditions associated with German shepherds to be aware of when dog breeding are:.