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The range of amounts is based on the activity of your Golden for the day, either low, moderate, or high level of activity. Golden Retrievers should have scheduled times to eat daily. The scheduled times will help them with their energy levels and keep them healthy. You can schedule their eating times as to what works best for your schedule. For example, feeding them before you leave for work and then when you get home. As a puppy, they will eat three times a day, so you will need to find times in those first few months to feed them more often. When they are an adult or senior, the scheduling of feeding times will be easier because they will only eat twice daily. For a Golden Retriever puppy, the best feeding schedule is once in the morning, noontime, and in the evening. For example, you could feed their first meal at am, lunch at noon, then dinner at pm. Planning their mealtimes around your mealtimes will often make it easier for you and the puppy. Make sure to give them plenty of time after eating to got to the bathroom a couple of times before heading to bed. Hopefully, this will help them sleep for a longer period. After about six months, your Golden Retriever can go down to two daily feedings. This usually occurs once in the morning and once in the evening. They can usually last about 12 hours between meals. If it goes past 12 hours, they could become nauseated. Golden Retrievers can experience food allergies often caused from proteins in dairy or meat products. If your dog experiences symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or itching they may have a food allergy. They warn that feeding dogs any raw animal-source protein could cause illness because it has not gone through a process to remove harmful pathogens. However, a raw diet can be healthy if you are willing to go through the extra cleaning processes of the meat. This is a lot of work and difficult to do correctly and safely. We do not recommend it without expert veterinary help. Before starting a raw diet with your Golden, be sure to consult a veterinarian. Find one that is familiar with raw foods and can help with the proper handling of the foods. If you work hard to make sure your homemade foods are rich in the vitamins and minerals that a dog needs, then it might work for your Golden Retriever. It takes a lot more time to find recipes and make sure it has all the nutritional value of a store-bought dog food. If you are willing to research expertly formulated recipes internet is making it easier to do this , and take the time to cook for your golden then go for it! Consulting your veterinarian is a must before starting any homemade diet. A veterinary nutritionist should also review your plan before starting. Feeding your Golden Retriever table food is not the best practice but a small amount of dog healthy table food is fine. Some example table foods that are healthy for them are carrots, blueberries and plain yogurt. Just be aware that feeding them too much table food can throw their entire diet out of whack. They may not be getting enough vitamins and minerals like they do from their dog food. Conclusion Making sure your Golden Retriever is getting the right foods at the right amounts will help them live their best life. There are many choices of foods with all the right ingredients. Be sure to choose one that works best for you and your Golden. Consult with your veterinarian on which food will bring the most nutritional value to the health of your Golden Retriever. If your Golden is experiencing any health issues related to changing foods, visit your veterinarian. If this article was helpful, please consider sharing this post on Facebook with the button below! She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. Feeding Your Golden Feeding Your Golden With the wide array of foods available today, it can be hard to make a good choice of what to feed your golden. Goldens are particularly sensitive to dietary concerns, and feeding them a high quality diet can help boost their health and immune system. Feeding a high quality food is not necessarily more expensive. Price is misleading: cheaper foods require more volume to be fed, up to several cups at each meal. With the wide array of better foods available today, you can make a smart choice of what to feed your golden. A golden will normally eat about two cups of premium food per day. It can be adjusted a little more or less based on activity level and metabolism. Goldens are prone to skin problems, and a poor quality diet will cause skin problems which translates into costly veterinarian bills. You will need to go to the pet store to purchase your food. Grocery store brands do not offer the nutrition goldens need for good health. Do not be persuaded by fancy advertising. Many commonly hyped foods are not high quality and maybe lacking the necessary nutritional value for your dog. For example, Grain Free foods may play a major part in taurine deficiency in Golden Retrievers and other large breed dogs. This deficiency can cause serious heart problems for your dog see Taurine and Grain Free information on this web page. Here are some guidelines: Look for food free of chemical preservatives. Some of these additives are suspected of causing cancer. Look for food preserved with Tocopherols Vitamins C and E as well as rosemary and other herbs. Make sure you have several months before this date. Frequent stores where there is a good turnover of food so you get a fresh bag. Always store dog food in a tight airtight container in a cool, dry place. If you only have one dog, consider buying pound bags instead of pounds bags so the food is fresher. Look for a food that has some form of meat as the first ingredient — such as lamb, chicken, or turkey. Avoid foods that have grain as the first ingredient. Also look for multiple meat proteins in the first seven ingredients. Protein from multiple sources is generally viewed as being beneficial such as lamb, chicken and fish , unless your dog is allergic to certain proteins. Dog food companies sometimes list several types of grains in the first seven ingredients. Beware of this — your dog needs animal protein in his diet! These are the intestines of the animal including what is in the intestines!! Most by-products are not desirable. By-products normally contain beaks, feet, feathers, heads and other slaughterhouse wastes — not the most nutritious part of the animal. Avoid foods that have sugars or artificial colors or flavors or a lot of added salt. Semi-moist dog foods are the worst — they usually are loaded with artificial colors and sugars. Added vitamins and minerals are beneficial only when applied after the baking process, because heat destroys vitamins. The best foods are made up of ingredients that would be suitable for human consumption. Most dog foods contain meat products that are not fit for human consumption. They can include meat from diseased livestock, condemned material from slaughterhouses such as tumors cut away from meat , and as horrible as it sounds, some pet foods include euthanized pets sold to rendering plants and even road kill. Is it any wonder why so many dogs die from cancer when they are being fed meat from these sources? Grains — many dog foods will contain some grains, for example, brown rice, barley, corn, wheat, etc. We have found that some goldens in our rescue program generally do poorly on a food that contains corn or soy. Many goldens are allergic to corn or wheat. So if your golden starts getting a lot of hot spots or skin problems — check his food. There is a big difference in quality of grain products. Look for whole rice or brown rice in the ingredients; white rice and ground brewers rice are much lower in nutrients than whole or brown rice. Often pet food companies take the sweepings off the mill floor and put it in pet food. Look for whole grains instead such as oatmeal, brown rice, barley, or whole oats. Grain Free foods. Grain Free foods have become increasingly available as food companies try to offer foods that are easier to digest with lower levels of complex carbohydrates and grains. One misconception is that grain free dog food is also low-carb, however, vegetables such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, green peas and tapioca often replace the grains in grain-free dog foods, especially in kibble foods, making them as high or higher in carbohydrates than grain-based dog foods. Studies have shown peas, beans, pea starch, legumes, potatoes and sweet potatoes that have replaced the grains in dog foods block the function of taurine. Taurine, a sulfuric acid, is essential for healthy cardiovascular function in Golden Retrievers. If left untreated, taurine deficiency in Golden Retrievers can cause dilated cardiomyopathy DCM , congestive heart failure and possibly death. Read all the ingredients in the food which should include taurine and check with your veterinarian before selecting or feeding any grain free food to your dog. Detailed information on dog food ingredients and taurine can be found on this web page under Taurine and Grain Free information and at: Diet Associated Heart Disease Treats — beware of many dog treats out there. They are filled with sugars, preservatives and artificial colors. Try buying biscuits at your local dog bakery or making some yourself. The dog food companies listed below have high quality treats available for your dog. Is your dog overweight? Beware of some diet dog foods, they can be loaded with fillers that provide no added nutrition. At least green beans are healthy. You can also use canned pumpkin. Typically goldens love it! DO NOT free feed your golden; instead feed a measured amount of food twice a day. Most adult goldens will eat 1 cup of premium dog food twice a day. Is your dog too fat? You should be able to feel its ribs and your dog should have a waist. We have found that we have a different view of what constitutes a fat dog than many veterinarians. They will typically allow dogs to carry more weight than is optimal. This perhaps is because they do not want to insult their clients and risk losing business. Letting your golden get too fat is like chopping years off of its life. We also see lots of hip problems with goldens, and keeping weight in check will give your dog better mobility. Fat goldens are an epidemic from our experience. We routinely get goldens into our rescue program that have to lose 30 — 40 pounds!!! Therefore we have a lot of experience at taking the weight off! It is very discouraging and upsetting when an adoptive home will let some weight creep back on. You may think you are loving your dog by giving it too much to eat, but if you really love it you will keep it at a normal weight. Remember — Ribs and Waists! Can you feel and see them on your dog? If not, break open the cans of green beans! The bottom line is read the ingredients, consult your veterinarian and research reliable resources. Making sure your dog has the best nutritional food will help to insure he has a long and healthy life. Here, from Whole Dog Journal, are some additional links for selecting best dry dog food and the best canned dog reviews. Goldens Rescued Since .Learn more » Congratulations on your new golden retriever puppy! You now have a beautiful, smart, and loyal dog who will love you for life. To make sure they grow into a healthy and happy companion, you need to feed them the right amount of food. At months old, which is usually when they are ready to leave their mother, a golden retriever puppy should be eating 3 cups of dog food divided into three meals per day. This is based on a typical large-breed puppy food. Different brands will give a feeding guide on their packaging. However, how much and how often to feed your golden retriever will keep changing during this time of rapid growth. Golden Retriever Puppy Feeding Timeline Image Credit: PxHere All puppies are different as are the foods, but some general guidelines for feeding your golden retriever during their first year are: 0—6 weeks: A golden retriever puppy can start eating solid food when they are 3—4 weeks old. Give them a total of 3 cups of dog food per day by their third month, 3 to 4 cups by the time they are 6 months old. The AKC recommends waiting until large breed puppies are at least 12 months old before switching them over to adult dog food and more likely 18 months. The amount will depend on their weight and activity level, but a rough guide is 1—2 cups per meal. Image Credit: Kinek00, Shutterstock Large breed puppies like golden retrievers should eat three to four small meals a day for the first 3—6 months of their lives. Smaller portions spread throughout the day are easier on their tummies and help prevent bloat, a serious condition that can be deadly for dogs. It also helps them maintain their energy level throughout the day. Puppy food has more calories and fat to support their growth, as well as extra vitamins and minerals for their developing immune and nervous systems and bones. The protein source matters, too. Puppies need animal-based proteins like chicken, beef, or lamb for their growing muscles. Choose a Large Breed Formula: Large breed puppies grow quickly, which means they need extra support for their bones and joints. Formulations for large breeds contain the correct calcium and phosphorus ratio for strong bones and glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints. They can help you choose the right food for your puppy based on their age, weight, and activity level. But puppies need to be fed on a schedule to prevent them from overeating and becoming overweight. How do you know if your puppy is getting enough to eat? After that, their growth will start to slow down. He Has a Healthy Appetite: A healthy puppy is interested in food and eager to eat. He Has Plenty of Energy: A well-fed puppy is full of energy and ready to play. Make the most of mealtime with these tips: 1. It also helps other aspects of puppy training, such as potty training and crate training. Image Credit: Alena Marchuk, Shutterstock This means leaving food out all day for them to graze on whenever they want. Leave food down for 10 minutes and then pick up what is not eaten. If they have not eaten anything, offer it again in an hour. Slow them down by scattering their kibble around the bowl, using a puzzle feeder or snuffle mat. This will help them learn to eat slowly and enjoy their food more. If your puppy is not drinking enough water for your liking, try adding a bit of broth to their bowl to make it more appealing and help them stay hydrated. Resist the Urge to Sneak Them Table Scraps Puppies are experts at giving those big, soulful eyes that make it hard to say no. But resist the temptation to give them table scraps or human food. Aside from teaching them bad manners, it can also lead to health problems, like obesity. A lot of human foods are not safe or healthy for dogs. For instance, garlic and onions are toxic to dogs. Oily food can upset their stomach, and carbs add a lot of calories. This helps them learn that mealtime is a specific time and place and not something that happens all over the house. Let Your Puppy Eat in Peace. This includes other pets in the house and small children who might want to bother them or try to steal their food. Otherwise, meals can become a stressful experience for your puppy instead of a happy one. Conclusion Feeding your golden retriever puppy the right amount of quality dog food will establish a strong foundation for their health and happiness. In addition, make mealtimes more meaningful by turning them into lessons and bonding moments between you and your dog. The puppy phase is over before you know it, so enjoy it while it lasts! Read the full disclosure here. Being a large and energetic dog, your golden retriever has a ravenous appetite and can eat a lot. However, overfeeding is never good and could be avoided with the help of a golden retriever feeding chart. Knowing how much to feed your golden retriever is always tricky but essential for their well-being and health. Goldens are prone to obesity and joint problems, which can only be exacerbated with an inadequate feeding plan. So, stay with me to find the right feeding plan and meal schedule for your goldie. Most first-time owners think their puppies should be chubby. In truth, golden retriever puppies are supposed to look lanky and act like they are always hungry when fed the correct amount of food. To encourage proper growth and development without making your pup obese, you will have to know how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. For example, cheaper foods use fillers and have a smaller amount of calories, thus you will have to feed more than you would when using premium large breed puppy foods. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. We all want our golden retriever puppies to be healthy and happy. We envision them running through a verdant field chasing a ball. Full of energy with the beautiful, lustrous golden coat. But, just like us, eating the proper food in the proper amounts will help your golden properly grow and thrive. After all, what we eat impacts how healthy we are. How much you should feed your golden retriever puppy will vary depending on the quality of food you feed, his age, his weight, his general health, and his activity level. Your golden will be growing for up to two years. And the amount of food during that time will have to be adjusted depending on his needs. Because most people feed kibble to their pup, this article will focus on that. Kibble is convenient and cost effective. Instead, they should be lanky and full of energy. They should love to eat their food with gusto. Instead, you should be able to feel his ribs when you pet him there. There should just be a thin coating of fat under his skin. And he should have a defined waistline. Of course you should check with your veterinarian to make such adjustments. And remember a young puppy should get only so much exercise a day. Their joints and bones are developing and can be damaged if the exercise is too extreme. Assuming you have an eight-week-old puppy, he should receive three to four meals a day. From eight weeks old until about five or six months old, three meals per day are advisable. Of course, feed at the same intervals every day and split the total amount per day in half to be given at each feeding. After about six months of age through adulthood, two feedings per day are the norm. Always check with your vet regarding how much and how often to feed. These are just guidelines. Feed him at the same distraction-free location so that he focuses on eating. As much as goldens love to eat, a young golden puppy is also very easily distracted. This can lead to possible health problems, including joint and bone problems. Goldens can easily become overweight. Free feeding can also lead to a picky eater. Some puppies figure out that if their buffets are always there, and they can just go graze at will. Most foods you purchase will have guidelines on their bag or box. When you first get your puppy, feed him the same food that the breeder or rescue fed him for a few weeks. Then, if you want to change his food, do so over at least 10 days. Add more of the new food and subtract more of the old food each day. After about five days, you should be giving him approximately 50 percent of the new food and 50 percent of the old food. Switching food over such a period of time will help prevent stomach upsets and diarrhea. Overfeeding will result not only in him becoming overweight but it will also make him grow too fast. Periodically—even weekly— test whether you can still feel his ribs without them protruding. You can then increase the amount he eats. You should also feed his last meal of the day at least 90 minutes before his bed time so that he can digest his food and potty before bed. A well-balanced, high-quality food should provide all the nutrients he requires. Golden puppies require a formula made for large-breed dogs. Puppy formulas for large-breed dogs regulate their growth. Eating too quickly can lead to digestive upsets and even bloat, which can be deadly. I rescued my golden retriever Riley when he was about six months old. To say that he ate as if it were his last meal would be an understatement. He had a voracious appetite. I bought one of the maze bowls to slow him down. The kibble is placed between each section of the bowl, and he had to forage for his food. It worked! He ate at a more normal pace. Of course, dogs should be given free access to fresh water. Other Feeding Options Although I concentrated in this article on feeding kibble to your new puppy, there are other options. There are some drawbacks to them because they may not be nutritionally complete, may be cost prohibitive, or may be too time-consuming to make. Wet Food Canned food alone or mixed with kibble is an option. But wet food alone is very expensive. He may become a picky eater. Feeding raw is controversial. Dehydrated raw foods reduce some of the risks. The ratio of calcium to phosphorous is crucial to puppy development. Homemade Diet Cooking for your best friend can be very appealing. And many people do. You know what ingredients and their quality are. But it has its drawbacks. Of course, the amount you feed is important for his growth rate and general health and well-being. But there is no one-size-fits-all in determining how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. Any amounts you see are just guidelines. Adjust them as necessary regarding your own special puppy. Do you have a golden retriever puppy? How did you determine what and how much to feed him? Please leave your comments in the section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Debbie has been training dogs for over 24 years and has nationally ranked obedience and rally dogs, agility dogs, trick dogs, and therapy dogs. Post navigation. They are famously loving and playful family pets, always eager to jump in the pool or snuggle up with you on the lounge. They are patient and energetic dogs who are easy to train, making them excellent service animals as well as loyal companions. If you are bringing a Goldie into your family, you might also be aware of their reputation as food lovers. Your Goldie might want to eat anything and everything you put in their bowl — and maybe even anything left on an unattended plate. In this Golden Retriever feeding guide, Hypro Premium will take you through everything you need to know when it comes to food options for your pup. The best food for most young puppies is milk. If you are weaning a puppy, you can start to mix in a little dry kibble with their puppy milk to create a paste. You can feed this mix to your puppy up to four times a day, slowly reducing the amount of milk you mix in. Over time, your Goldie puppy will get more comfortable with solid foods, until you no longer need to include any milk in their diet. While chubby little puppies are cute, your Goldie should not build up too much excess fat once you start feeding them solids. Goldies go from a small 4kg puppy at 7 weeks old to an almost 30 kg adult dog in the space of only 10 months. At six months old your puppy will still be growing, but more slowly as they reach most of their body development milestones. This is why appropriate feeding in the first year of their life is vital to the overall health of your Goldie for years to come. Over time this can increase to up to 4 cups a day at 10 months old, though females should usually only need 3 cups a day. The amount you feed your puppy is often dependent on their size and sex. While they may have some growing left to do, it depends on your dog. Some Goldies will continue to experience growth spurts before their second birthday, while others will stay the same size. Large breeds can be at risk of growing too fast, which can make them more vulnerable to skeletal and weight problems when they get older. Golden retrievers are especially prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which can be avoided through diet control. You should feed your Goldie between 3 — 4 cups of food per day over two meals. Adult dogs and puppies have different nutritional needs. This is important to take into consideration as you are establishing a feeding schedule for a Golden Retriever puppy. Puppies require more calories to support their rapid growth than adult dogs, but they also have much smaller stomachs, which means they get fuller faster. Because of this, puppies can easily overeat, especially Golden Retrievers. You can help your puppy avoid overeating by allowing them a short amount of time to eat, and then removing their bowl. All puppies grow a lot during their first year, but large breed puppies are more likely to suffer from negative health consequences as a result. In order to provide your Golden Retriever puppy with the most appropriate food to support their rapid growth, consider choosing a large breed puppy food. Goldie puppies need lots of protein, fibre, and fatty acids to support the development of their bodies and provide them with energy. These foods also take into account the difference in nutrient digestion between small and large breeds. Too much of these nutrients can cause your large breed puppy to develop skeletal abnormalities. So how much do you feed a Golden Retriever? Your adult Goldie could need anywhere between and 1, calories per day. The amount of food you feed your dog will be determined by a few important factors. The first thing to consider is the sex of your dog. On average, your male Golden Retriever will need slightly more food than a female dog. Senior dogs will usually be less active and so will need less food. Goldies in particular can have a lot of variation in the amount of food they need on a daily basis. No matter how much you feed your dog, it is ideal that you feed your adult Golden Retriever two meals a day at evenly spaced time intervals. Feeding your dog twice, once in the morning and again in the evening, can be useful for establishing a routine and avoiding overfeeding. This routine can also include exercise, and is useful for encouraging healthy behaviour around food and toilet training. Special Considerations Your Golden Retriever could be predisposed to several health conditions that are important to consider when you make decisions about their diet. Firstly, Golden Retrievers are known for their beautiful coats, but their skin can often become infected. Goldies love swimming, but this can cause problems if water irritates their skin. They can also be susceptible to atopic dermatitis, which causes extreme itchiness, resulting in licking and biting behaviours in dogs that can cause even more damage. For dogs prone to skin and coat issues, a fish-based diet can help alleviate symptoms. Fish contains plenty of fatty acids, which support coat and skin health, and rarely triggers any allergic reaction in dogs. Goldies often benefit from healthy grains in their diet, especially as avoiding them can actually leave your dog more vulnerable to nutritional dilated cardiomyopathy, or nutritional DCM. This heart disease is common in Golden Retrievers, and can be triggered by consuming too much grain-free pet food that contains legumes like lentils and peas. You should consider feeding your Golden Retriever foods that are full of grains and proteins like chicken or fish. These are the benefits and drawbacks of the three most popular options — wet food, a raw food diet, and dry food. Wet food can be a great option for dogs that need plenty of protein and fat, like working dogs or dogs with certain health conditions. It also hydrates your dog while they eat, which can be useful for dogs suffering from any illness. For dogs with highly restrictive diets, raw food prepared by you can be a great way to avoid allergens. You can have complete control over a raw diet, which does require a lot more work on your part, but can have great results. For instance, a Golden Retriever with heart issues should eat a low salt diet, which can be easier to achieve if you are preparing their meals from scratch. However, low quality kibbles tend to be made up of a lot of low quality fillers, which can be hard for your pup to digest. Whatever option you choose for your Goldie, make sure it is suitable for large breeds and contains high quality ingredients. This will help prevent degenerative health disorders in the long run. Your Golden Retriever will probably love food, and will probably try to eat anything you put in front of them, which means you need to help them avoid the negative consequences of overeating. Golden retrievers, like other large and active breeds, need plenty of exercise. Not only is this vital to their physical health, but it also ensures they grow up well socialised and mentally stimulated. As your Goldie grows from a puppy to an adult dog, the amount of meals they need a day will reduce as their digestive systems become more developed. Your dog will need two meals a day, once in the evening and once in the morning, from the age of 6 months.

Handmade bag of the best Eukanuba kibble Blanket with both mum and sibling sents Puppy bowl Puppy guides Mum and dad can both be seen in pictures and in person when you view the pups. They are both Family pets. Both dogs have been on the highly rated Eukanuba Premium so very toned built dogs. Dad is also extremely rare due to him being a pure bred German Shepherd but having the blue eye gene as well and being pure white. So some of these traits could carry down to the pups. Or be sold without any vaccinations ONLY with proof that you have booked the pup into your vets to get it done instead. If you're planning on getting your puppy on a pet plan it might work out more cost effective this way anyway. But this can be discussed privately. There will be a contract that will have to be signed upon placing a deposit. Just stating that if the dog needs to be rehomed or you can't take care of them anymore they need to come back to me. It will come off the price of the pup when you collect them. Can also video call. Preferred way of contact is through my mobile on:. Based in Clacton-On-Sea. I will update the pictures of them every weeks Ad ID:. Gray, brindle, white, black, red, silver, fawn, brown, sable Suitable for: Active families, those looking for a friendly but dedicated guard dog Temperament: Independent, loyal, protective, intelligent, energetic, high-maintenance However, both parent breeds are quite active and athletic, so this is not a dog that will be compatible with a couch potato. Akita Shepherds are a fairly rare mix, so you may not know much about them. 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. That means that most Akita Shepherd owners became so quite purposefully, and they sought out the breed because they met their specific needs. Typically, those needs are for an intelligent and independent guard dog that can be trusted to make reliable decisions in the heat of the moment. None of this is written to scare you away from adopting an Akita Shepherd, of course. These dogs are quick learners, which when combined with their natural eagerness to please, makes them easy to train. In just a few minutes, they can often pick up on commands that would take other dogs several days to learn. Beyond that, they tend to be stoic and reserved most of the time, but when playtime rolls around, they can be quite wild and goofy. You should work with them from the time that you bring them home as puppies to ensure that they know how to behave around people. Regardless of how well you train your dog, you should never leave them alone with small children. These are powerful animals, and all it takes is one mishap to create a horrible, lifelong situation. Akita Shepherds are large animals, and they can be quite boisterous at times. This will mostly depend on socialization. However, if not properly socialized, they may try to assert dominance over other dogs, or they may view them as threats. Akita Shepherds are not inherently aggressive or violent, but they can be quite terrifying if not taught proper manners. Their silent nature is especially worrisome in this regard. That means a kibble high in protein, as this will help build muscle and give them long-lasting energy. Be careful about where that protein comes from, though. Many owners prefer feeding their dog a raw diet, as that allows them to completely control what goes into their food. If you go this route, be sure to use a variety of meats including organ meats and bone meal , as well as nutritious veggies. Also, check with your vet beforehand to make sure your food has all the nutrition that your pup needs. Obesity is horrible for these dogs, so be strict about portion control. Akita Shepherds also prone to joint problems later in life, so you might want to consider bolstering their diet with glucosamine and omega-3 supplements. It will take at least an hour of moderate to vigorous activity every day to tucker them out. While you can keep them in an apartment, having a large backyard for them to run around in will definitely be helpful. These exercise requirements can be lowered if they have a job to do. Training sessions can help accomplish this and your dog will love them , or you could buy them puzzle toys or enlist them in agility training. Be careful about pushing them too hard, though, especially when it comes to running and jumping. Their backs are prone to injury, so you want to limit the high-impact activity as much as possible. Without proper training and socialization, their natural protectiveness can get out of hand, leading to problems with aggression toward people or other animals. These dogs are smart enough that you can give them elaborate jobs if you like. They can make capable herding dogs, and being a watchdog is right up their alley. Their eagerness to follow instructions makes them natural competitors, and they do well at agility trials and other sporting events. Outsourcing the work is vastly preferable to leaving it undone. You can mitigate all that shedding by brushing them, of course, but grooming these dogs is almost a full-time job. Still, they have a fair amount of health problems to deal with. One of the biggest issues comes from the German Shepherd side of the family tree. German Shepherds have backs that slope downward toward the tail, and this can lead to all sorts of structural issues in their spine as they age. If your dog takes after the German Shepherd in this way, you can expect to deal with arthritis, hip dysplasia, and similar conditions later in their life. Take this list as a guide rather than a guarantee; your dog may experience some of these issues or none at all, and they could suffer other illnesses not mentioned here. Minor Conditions. Leash Manners - She is still learning. Socialization - Duchess needs continued socialization throughout her life with people of all ages, genders and races as well as other animals including dogs and cats if she is to grow up to be a well socialized adult dog. Energy Level and Exercise - Duchess is very high energy and will need a lot of exercise and discipline. Daily Structure and Schedule - She will require structure with someone experienced with the breed. Temperament - Duchess is an alpha dog and needs someone who understands her needs. Obedience Training - She is very intelligent but also high energy so will require a lot of patience and guidance with obedience training. Behaviors - Duchess is a puppy so she still behaves just like one -- mouthing, chewing, jumping, etc. Known for their tremendous loyalty and courage, they are calmly confident, but not hostile. This breed needs his people and should not be left isolated for long periods of time. They only bark when it is necessary. Serious and almost human in his intelligence, they have a high learning ability. The breed is so intelligent and learns so readily that it has been used as a sheepdog, guard dog, in police work, as a guide for the blind, in search and rescue service, and in the military. The German Shepherd also excels in many other dog activities including schutzhund, tracking, obedience, agility, flyball, and ring sport. His fine nose can sniff out drugs and intruders, and can alert handlers to the presence of underground mines in time to avoid detonation, or gas leaks in a pipes buried 15 feet underground. A quick daily brushing is best unless hair in the house is not a problem. They should be bathed rarely, only once or twice a year to avoid skin oil depletion. Shepherds have a life expectancy around 13 years. They could take on traits from just one parent or any combination of traits from both of them. An Akita tends to be loyal, devoted, and dedicated to their families. They do tend to get along well with children, but they tend to be wary of strangers and they have a high prey drive. Although they tend to be quiet dogs, they will bark to alert you. This makes them good watchdogs. On top of that, Akitas have an instinct to guard and protect. This makes socialization and training early and often particularly important for this breed. You may be able to expect a similar temperament in your Akita Mix. However, the other dog breed in the mix could affect their temperament. Asking the breeder about the other parent breed can help prepare you for all of the possibilities. Meeting the mother dog can also give you an idea of what temperament to expect in your Akita Mix puppy. Akitas are moderately adaptable dogs that can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need to be happy and healthy. Due to their protective instincts and high prey drive, they should only be let off-leash in securely fenced areas. A mixed-breed dog can inherit any combination of the potential health concerns common to one or both of the parent breeds. From the Akita side, the potential health concerns to be aware of in an Akita Mix include hip dysplasia, thyroid issues, skin conditions, progressive retinal atrophy, and acquired myasthenia gravis. Reputable breeders will screen their breeding stock to avoid passing issues on to puppies. So, make sure you ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross. Also, talk to them about the genetic and health history of both of the parent breeds. Although Akitas love their family and prefer to be near them, they also have an independent nature. They are highly intelligent and pick up training quickly, but they can also have a stubborn streak. This can be difficult for a first-time dog owner to navigate on their own. The other parent breed could balance this out, but you still need to be prepared for a potentially hard-headed pooch. As such, puppy training classes are recommended. Regardless of owner experience, puppy training classes can still be a good idea as these classes often offer opportunities to socialize a puppy. Akitas have a dense double coat that will shed moderately year-round with heavier shedding sessions twice a year as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and moving to daily brushing during seasonal shedding can help your dog be more comfortable and contain a lot of the loose fur to your brush. Bathing is on an as-needed basis. Monthly nail trimming is usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Many dog owners overlook this, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health problems in dogs. Practicing good dental care for dogs can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal. Akitas tend to have a moderate activity level. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are usually sufficient for these dogs. The other parent breed could affect the exercise needs for an Akita Mix. By talking to the breeder about the other parent breed, you can get a good idea of what sort of energy range to prepare for in your puppy. A fully-grown Akita usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. The other dog breed in the mix can seriously affect the size you could see in a fully-grown Akita Mix. So, make sure you talk to the breeder about the other parent breed. Akitas generally live for years. The other parent breed in the cross could have an effect on this for an Akita Mix. Talking to the breeder about it can help clarify to what extent it could be affected if at all. Featured Akita Mix Article. Showing 1 - 36 of 36 resultsPage 1 - 36 results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. Mom has pedigree from USA and.Please Contact Looking for a good loving home Winnipeg I don't want to do this but, due to some family issues I have to do something I don't want to do. Jameson's a pure bread akita that'll be 2 years old in November, he is hard-headed but just wants to.Adorable Baby Japanese Akita-Inu. From pedigree, non-aggressive parengs. There are girls and boys. Has one blue eye one Brownlee is a great dog I just don't have enough time or space for her since we moved. She would be very happy and us full as.Top quality pup big boned large paws excellent disposition Very sweet boy follows you around Home trained working on leash and obedience.Her name is Tundra she is 2. Tundra is up to date on all her.Kamloops Only 2 left! Husky Boxer with some Akita bear and Rottweiler. They are very lovely little ones, they are from a litter of 8 all srong and healthy. Born and raised in Canada. Father is a purebred German Shepherd.It is a dog with a strong temperament, he is both brave and reserved. The Akita was initially used for bear hunting, Sale price is only ! Xiaofen: Stable personality and looks are the most symbolic. Our Akita Inu puppies would make an ever-patient playmate for your.Dartmouth Beautiful puppies ready to be held for their forever home! Click in the picture to see the full size picture We have 7 puppies available, 3 girls and 4 boys. Mom- Border collie Dad- Akita Both.Red in color. Vet health checked along with vaccines and deworming. If you have any questions feel free to ask. Chatham-Kent Beautiful American Akita pups, ready for their new homes! Feel free to book an appointment to come meet them! Forest is sold! Fiona is sold! Fritz is reserved.She is fully house trained, with no chewing issues, loves the outdoors and is very well socialized. She works well with both small and large dogs and.All female except for the black puppy with the white legs is a male. Very friendly and love people. Ohsweken 3 males tan and brown solid. Not dewormed, no needles. They will end up around lbs. Free dog cage for the 1st.Peedigree upon request. Very cute and smart. Peepad trained. Ready to go home at anytime. Great outdoor dog. Being raised outside but can be easily house trained as they are very clean dogs. It is a strong, dominant and an independent breed which can be aloof.Please Contact Cute puppies Prince Rupert 6 puppies available. Various colours, solid brown, Please share. Inbox me or text me!!! Thank you! Email:mccloyj sasktel. They were born in October of last year. Very friendly, good natured young dogs. But can meet at convenience. Any other.Akita x Sheltie Northeast Regina Im proud to have 3 pups ready for there furrever homes come sept 19th! The Shikita coined by my wife has.Edmonton These are gonna be great dogs! The dad is a great runner an akita crossed with maremma. The mother is a very loyal dog with a great tempermant. She is very protective of my girlfriend when I'm not.Browse other categories in Pets in Canada.

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Texas Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Texas? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Texas? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Retriever has been an AKC-recognized breed since and was commonly used as a gun dog and for retrieving small game such as waterfowl, and for companionship. The Golden Retriever originated in the Scottish Highlands. The first Lord Tweedmouth, Dudley Majoribanks, is credited with developing the breed and keeping detailed records to create the ideal gun dog for the terrain. Great discipline and a gentle spirit make the Golden Retriever a perfect retrieval breed since the goal of this task is to bring the trophy back as undamaged as possible. Golden Retrievers first appeared in dog shows in at a British dog show. They also started appearing in the United States around the same time as they were brought across the Canadian border. They gained popularity with sport hunters and in general. Their popularity really took off in the s and they are consistently one of the most popular dog breeds. If you are not the sporting type, bringing a Golden Retriever into your family as a pet is just as rewarding because they are one of the most loyal and jovial breeds out there. One of the facts about Golden Retrievers is that they are the epitome of friendly and make fantastic family dogs. Golden Retrievers are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. They tend to be good with kids, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Goldens love attention and they bond closely with their families. They are affectionate with them, and also just about everyone else. Although they do tend to get along with everyone, they love being around their favorite humans the most. They will bark to alert you and can end up barking a lot if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. They can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. These dogs do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , they are not at all happy about being left alone for long periods of time. Although super-friendly and attention-loving, Goldens can also be sensitive to their surroundings; make sure they feel included, but have a quiet place to go if things get too noisy or overwhelming. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Golden Retriever include progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, elbow dysplasia , and hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Goldens are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are highly trainable dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. These traits make them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. It also helps them excel at obedience competitions. As one of the smartest dog breeds , Golden Retrievers can get bored easily. Because they pick up things quickly, they can get bored with too much repetition in training. If your dog has mastered the command, move on to something more advanced or another activity. You can also enroll in puppy training classes for some variety in training and also some socialization. Golden Retrievers have a long double coat that will shed a little year-round and will be heavier twice a year as the seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding along with a bath as needed is usually enough for at-home care. You will want to go to the dog groomer for a professional trim a few times a year, especially as the seasons change. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. Golden Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Daily walks plus some playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough to keep these dogs happy and healthy. But, they are high-energy dogs that will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Much like the Labrador , they also tend to have an extended puppyhood. They tend to start winding down a little around the age of 3 and settle into your lifestyle, but they will still be high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity. Goldens are known for being versatile and athletic dogs. They tend to love swimming. Once they are done growing and the vet clears them for higher-impact activities, you can try other things too. They are one of the dog breeds that make good running partners. You can also teach them how to play frisbee or play fetch. Training for dog sports is another good option. In addition to obedience, Golden Retrievers are well suited for agility, dock diving , rally, flyball, tracking, and more. Fully-grown Golden Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Golden Retrievers generally live for years on average. With their intelligence, eagerness to please, and gentle disposition, Golden Retrievers are versatile working dogs. In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make the best service dogs , Goldens can be found working as emotional support dogs, certified therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, military dogs, police dogs, animal actors, and more. Featured Golden Retriever Article.

Is The Shollie For You? The special thing about these dogs is their spectacular looks, more similar to a purebred than to a designer breed. They have aspects of a German Shepherd, with beautiful coats, large and athletic bodies, and expressive eyes. The only things that betray them are the less hairy tail and the floppy ears, both inherited from the Border Collie. Most of these dogs have a tan colored coat, but you can also find black and, in some rare cases, white Shollies. Of course, that thick, long coat will need regular brushing to avoid tangles and poor skin health. The German Shepherd is a highly active breed, developed for work and activity which means they require regular physical exercise. Thus, the combination of these two breeds results in an explosion of high energy! As an owner, you need to make sure your Shollie gets the activity and physical exercise she requires. Just take a look at these beautiful dogs and how they enjoy themselves playing: And the best way to do that would be to adapt an active lifestyle yourself no, this dog is not suitable for couch potatoes like you, Josh. While being playful, Shollies also do quite well on their own, so you can leave them alone at home for short intervals without worrying about them destroying furniture or getting too lonely. So, what activities can you give a Shepherd Collie mix to keep her happy and healthy? Something as simple as giving your dog some fresh air at regular intervals throughout the day should be more than enough to keep him satisfied. How often exactly? According to doctors of veterinary medicine like Amy Moore and Charlotte Cummings, a Shollie requires at least 2 walks every day or a minimum of 2 hours of activity on the daily. Both the German Shepherd and the Border Collie are known for their affectionate nature. A Shepherd Collie loves playing with her owners and will often eagerly await the next time you pick up the ball for a fun round of fetch. Despite being naturally loving and sweet towards their owners, however, the Shollie can manifest a wary side. How can you prevent this type of behavior in your Shollie? Exposing your pup to crowded, high activity environments early on. But it will make them more capable of controlling their impulses when a guest or visitor walks into your home. Police and military forces all over the world commonly use the aid of German Shepherds for a variety of tasks that would otherwise be impossible for people to perform! Sniffing out bombs, illegal substances, and other security threats are just some of the nifty tricks that German Shepherds can be taught. Border Collies, on the other hand, are known to be some of the smartest and most trainable dogs around. This breed quickly takes a number of tasks and jobs with simple repetition. With this type of lineage, you should know that the Shepherd Collie is just as smart. This dog breed loves mental exercise and will often look for something to stimulate her ever active mind. So as her owner, you should be ready with a few cognitive puzzles, games, and tasks that will help give your dog the mental exercise that she needs. For instance, before taking him out for your next walk, think about the place you plan to visit. Instead of going for the typical trail you always follow, consider other areas with more varied smells, sounds, and sights. Something as simple as exposing your dog to new sensory experiences can give them that well-deserved dose of cognitive training. What about dogs that are frequently left at home? As much as possible, I advise you bring your dog along with you when you run errands or go out because this can also give him a chance to stretch his mental muscles. Just hide the kibble in areas of your house where your dog is free to explore, and it will keep your Shollie thoroughly entertained for hours on end. So, how do you go about teaching your Collie Shepherd Mix to alert you in case of an intruder or threat? The first step would be to teach them to stop barking on command. Once your Collie Shepherd perfects this, you can then start teaching her when barking would be acceptable behavior by simulating an intruder or threat. Ultimately, what you want to teach your dog is the ability to discern between harmless guests and potential intruders by showing them the way that threats would behave. So your Shollie should know not to bark or alert you in these instances. Watch this video for more advanced tactics on stopping people aggression in dogs. Some dogs are more predisposed to certain health problems just because of their build and lineage. Responsibly bred Shepherd Collie Mixes will live up to 15 years of healthy life with little to no incidences of disease or illness! Of course, the parent breeds do have their own health problem predispositions that can be passed on to the mix. For instance, German Shepherds are notoriously prone to hip dysplasia. Border Collies, on the other hand, are known to be commonly afflicted with epilepsy. What a Shollie really needs is an owner who can keep up with their high energy, their wit, and their affectionate nature. About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. To create this hybrid, the parents must be one purebred Border Collie and one purebred German Shepherd. Both of these breeds are certified by the American Kennel Club so breeders should be able to provide paperwork for both parents. This energetic, intelligent, loving breed is becoming very popular with people who want a solid working dog or a loyal companion. As they are crossbreed, the characteristics they inherit from each parent will be different in each puppy. The overall appearance of this breed tends to lean more towards the German Shepherd parent. With their muscular large bodies, they are often mistaken for purebred German Shepherds. Their floppy ears and Collie tail will give them away as crossbreeds. Although a Shepherd is their most common appearance, each puppy will inevitably be different in appearance. No matter how they look, these dogs will have strong muscles and high levels of stamina, great for herding cattle. Fully grown, they should be around 21 to 27 inches tall and weigh around 70 to 80 lbs. If they lean more towards the Collie parent, they may be shorter and weigh less as Collies generally only weigh around 40 lbs. Colors Their coat will probably be a solid tan color with black patching and points. Coat They will have a straight, dense, medium-length coat, as both parents do. If they take after their German Shepherd parent, it will be a double coat. This means that it will be noticeably thicker especially in the winter months. If they are working dogs, this double coat will be great for working in cold weather. The best way to make an educated guess about their temperament is to look at their parent breeds. Highly energetic and extremely intelligent, these dogs are very eager to learn. Despite this, German Shepherds are not naturally aggressive and are actually very loving dogs that are loyal to their families. It is true that this loyalty can lead to them being protective and so they will often bark at anything strange in their territory. Border Collie Temperament A Collie was also bred as a herding dog and is one of the most common dogs used by farmers in the United Kingdom to manage their flocks and herds. Like GSDs, Collies are also energetic and very intelligent; ranked number one across all dog breeds. The downside is that they always need something to do otherwise they get bored very quickly. They are more playful than the German Shepherd but may have more issues with separation anxiety. With both these breeds in mind, we can definitely say that this hybrid is well above average in energy and intelligence. They make fantastic working dogs as this provides them with a job to do and plenty to keep their mind active. They will want to be with someone most of the time. Leaving an energetic and intelligent dog alone is a recipe for destructive behaviour such as chewing on furniture and barking. If you do just want this dog as a companion animal, be prepared for lots of exercise, playtime, and training sessions. These dogs can be protective so plenty of socialization from an early age will help. Lots of different people coming in and out of their space is very important. This will reduce the likelihood of them becoming defensive to new people. If they are the only dog in the house, be sure to socialize them with lots of other dogs to prevent guarding behavior over you and your family. Both parent breeds are comfortable around other animals, especially livestock or cats. They can live happily with other dogs and having a doggy friend may help keep them entertained. This mix is a great family dog as long as it was socialized with its family from a young age and not left alone with young children. All family members should be consistent with training to prevent the dog from receiving mixed messages and diluting the effect of training. As with all dogs, it would be unwise to leave young children alone with them. This breed is usually a food-focused dog which makes it easy to train with treats. Some mixes may also respond to toy-focused training which would be great if your dog is going to be a working dog or even train in agility or obedience. They will require a lot of socialization with people to reduce any guarding behaviors and aloofness. Naturally, this breed is not an aggressive breed but it is always good to socialize a puppy with other puppies to teach them canine manners. The Border Collie Shepherd Mix should be easy and enjoyable to train because they are so intelligent. If they are companion animals, you should definitely look into interactive feeders, plenty of toys for chewing and other games. For games which will stimulate your mix, fetch will be an important one. They need exercising for at least two hours a day, time in the garden, playtime, and other forms of mental stimulation. If they are working dogs they may get most of this on the job but as a companion animals, they will need this provided in other forms. Grooming should be completed a minimum of two times a week; especially if they have a double coat from their Shepherd parent. They should also have all the normal care that a dog requires: Ears cleaned Claws cut Treatment for fleas and worms Checked for ticks especially if they are out in fields or long grass on a regular basis Someone best suited to owning this breed is either at home most of the day or works with this dog. These mixed breed dogs are a very high-energy hybrid. This means a fenced-in backyard is a must so they can go out when they please and work off some energy. These dogs are not suited to living in apartments or houses without gardens. If they are working as a herding dogs, they will be able to run off a lot of that energy doing their job. If they are a guard dog or companion animal, they will need to be out of the house exercising for at least two hours a day. You should walk your dog a minimum of twice a day for at least one hour each time. These dogs are great off-leash as they are highly intelligent and should master recall pretty quickly. It means they can run off steam while running circles around you. Agility classes are also an excellent way of burning off steam and excellent as a form of mental stimulation, especially for this breed as they have a great body type for agility work. Grooming and Shedding If your dog does have a double coat, you can expect seasonal shedding. This is where they shed loads of fur twice a year in the Spring and Fall to make room for the new coat growth. Even if the coat is not double, these dogs will still shed quite a bit throughout the year and so will need brushing a minimum of twice a week. With lots of treats and positive reinforcement, grooming should be a good bonding time for you and your pup. You should take your dog to be professionally groomed a few times a year, especially around shedding season if they have that double coat. This will help prevent matting and keep their coat super healthy. Feeding and Diet The Border Collie German Shepherd Mix, when fully grown, should be fed one and a half cups of good quality dry food twice a day. This can also have wet food mixed in with it. Good quality dry food will have a very high percentage of protein. Things to avoid in dry dog food are any type of food dye, rendered fats, and corn or wheat gluten. People with working dogs often swear by a raw food diet. This is where the diet is made up of unprocessed meats, bones, fruit and vegetables, some dairy, and eggs. Known Health Problems All dogs are prone to certain health conditions and age-related issues. With little planning ahead you could get reimbursed for every vet bill from now on! Other names for these dogs include Border Collie Shepherd mix and a Shollie. The mix breed will usually be athletic and agile, extremely intelligent and quick to learn commands, while displaying a protective and watchful nature. German Shepherd The breed were designed to be a working dog with an athletic physique and noble character. Some of their personality traits include loyal, confident and courageous. The German Shepherd is the second most popular breed in the United States. They need a lot of mental and physical stimulation to ensure these clever dogs behave. How big do German Shepherd Collie Mixes get? To get an idea of the size, we need to look at both the Border Collie and the German Shepherd. German Shepherds can be between 22 and 26 inches in height and 50 and 90 pounds in weight. Border Collies can range between 18 and 22 inches in height and 30 to 55 pounds in weight. So the size range for a German Shepherd Collie mix is between 18 and 26 inches in height and 30 and 90 pounds in weight. What do German Shepherd Collie Mix look like? A German Shepherd Collie Mix can have a variety of different colors. Having said that, the most common shade tends to be solid tan with patches of black. German Shepherds are usually black and tan but Border Collies have a variety of possible coat colors. Therefore, a Shollie could have any combination of black, sable, white, brown and fawn. They should be almond-shaped. Their nose will be black and their ears should be large and triangular in shape. So you can expect a German Shepherd Collie Mix to be a willing learning and eager to please their pet parents. We can say with some degree of certainty that a German Shepherd Collie Mix will be quite loyal to their dogs owners given this is a quality associated with both parents. Giving both breeds are members of the Herding Group, they could be prone to herding small children or other small pets. This is a trait that is associated with the Border Collie. While German Shepherd Collies are loyal and protective, you should never leave one of these dogs alone with a child. The same could be said for any breed of dog no matter how tall or small. These hybrid dogs have a playful nature which they can often get from their Border Collie parent. They should be sociable with other people and other pets. As a general rule, they should learn new commands within five repetitions and obey a first command 90 per cent of the time or better. They require a lot of exercise — regular walks or runs with their dog owner, trips to the dog park, games or playtime in the back yard, as well as mental stimulation. As the saying goes, a tired dog is a happy dog. They need around 12 miles of exercise every week. Are German Shepherd Collie Mix hypoallergenic? Do German Shepherd Collie Mix shed? A Shollie is usually a high shedding dog that will require brushing every day to maintain the health and quality of their coat. By doing so, pet parents will remove dead hair as well as debris. A German Shepherd Collie Mix will blow out its coat twice a year, which will be a challenging time for a dog owners with dog hair all over the home. How long does a German Shepherd Collie Mix live? German Shepherds can live between seven and 10 years. Border Collies have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. We can deduce that a German Shepherd Collie mix will have an average lifespan of around 10 to 12 years. German Shepherd Collie Mix health problems Mix breeds are generally considered healthier dogs that purebreds. However, some hybrid breeds can still be susceptible to some health problems. The price can vary between each breeder, who may value certain traits above others. Other potential costs include dog food, pet insurance, grooming, vet trips and much more. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Shollie Highlights Shollies are mixed breed dogs. The Shollie is a dog who demands a lot of exercise—ideally over an hour a day split up into a couple of sessions. If you live near open fields or have access to a large dog park, these will become ideal playgrounds for the Shollie. The Shollie is a great match with kids. The dog will take on a protective role, while also enjoying play sessions with the children in the household. You must still supervise playtime between kids and dogs. The mixed breed is also known for being smart. Add agility and fetch-based tasks into the routine to keep the dog mentally stimulated and satisfied. The German Shepherd Dog was originally bred as a herding dog in Germany and dates back to the s. The breed eventually became renowned as a working dog for the police and military, and these days you might also see them as guide dogs. The Border Collie also claims herding roots, this time from England and Scotland. Even though the Shollie got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you! Shollie Size The Shollie is a large dog. As is always the case with newer mixed dog breeds, exact size standards might vary. Most weigh in at 70 to 80 pounds and range in height from 21 to 29 inches. Shollie Personality When it comes to personality, the Shollie is a solid mix between being affectionate towards the humans in their life and also acting as a protector of the family. The dog will form an exceptionally strong bond with children, and will display protective behavior if strangers approach. Befitting a large and athletic dog, the Shollie demands lots of outdoor time—otherwise the mixed breed might display destructive behavior and act out due to being bored. Aim for at least an hour of walking and running time every day, and add agility and fetch-based tasks into the routine to keep the dog mentally stimulated and satisfied. It cannot be stressed enough that the Shollie is a smart and energetic dog—so they need a family who can commit to an equally active and involved lifestyle. Shollie Health Shollies are generally considered to be healthy dogs, although the mixed breed can be predisposed to some of the same conditions that the German Shepherd Dog and Border Collie face. Some of the more common health problems Shollies suffer from include: Bloat Elbow dysplasia Shollie Care The Shollie is a dog who demands a lot of exercise—ideally over an hour a day split up into a couple of sessions. The mixed breed is also intelligent and benefits greatly from being mentally stimulated and challenged, otherwise they may become frustrated. The mixed breed usually has good dental hygiene, so brushing their teeth twice a week should suffice. Ask your regular vet about an appropriate toothpaste brand for the mixed breed. Also, be sure to check nails and paw pads after outdoor sessions, and look for any potential signs of damage or infection. Check their ears for signs of debris or pests, as well. Shollie Feeding An ideal Shollie diet should be formulated for a large dog with high energy. This will help keep the coat clean and lessen the chances of any mats developing. When it comes to climate, the Shollie is an adaptable dog who can usually live happily in most climates, although sometimes they can be prone to overheating in very hot weather. So remember to dress the breed up in a dog coat if it gets very cold outside, and always make sure adequate shade and fresh water is provided when the temperature spikes. Just be sure that early socialization takes place and boundaries are properly set on both sides—and supervise as much as possible when dealing with a large dog and small kids. When it comes to other household pets, the Shollie is usually fine around other domestic animals. Ultimately, early socialization really pays off with this mixed breed. Make sure to reward your Shollie for good behavior and adhere to a proper training regime when you bring them home to your family. Shollie Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed specific rescue for Shollies because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or Border Collie breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Applies to all dog food recalls in the U. Adopting an older dog will decrease the price tag. Lancaster Puppies in Columbus, OH. Owners will have a lot on their hands when grooming this hybrid dog. It is a heavy shedder, making it hard for owners to clean up while trying to keep their coat healthy. The German Shepherd Border Collie mix sheds more often as it grows old, so owners must brush its fur daily to remove dander and dead hair. Here are some of the most recommended grooming equipment to maintain the coat of the German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie: Slicker Brush Slicker brushes are great combs to remove tangles and mats on long-haired dogs. The slicker brush can save owners time when brushing the coat of the German Shepherd Border Collie compared to regular combs. Detanglers Before using a slicker brush, owners will notice that the Border Collie German Shepherd mix has a lot of tangled hair. Dematting sprays can relax and soften the hair to make it easier for owners to untangle the knots. Owners must resort to this solution if the tangles are hard to remove despite the use of detanglers as dogs are not fond of sharp objects. Owners must avoid buying shampoo based on the odor or the low price. Owners must be aware of its coat type and skin to help them find oils and specialty ingredients that will be beneficial for the Border Collie mixed with German Shepherd. Grooming Wipes The German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie is an energetic dog that will be dirty when it finishes playing outside the house. Wet wipes are essential for dog owners that want to prevent mud and grass inside their residence. Microfiber Towel Human towels do not absorb all of the water on a dog. Because of its heavy coat, the German Shepherd Border Collie mix will likely be dripping wet despite a heavy rinsing. Microfiber towels can help remove water on a Border Collie German Shepherd cross better than human towels. The legs and hips of Border Collie German Shepherd will deteriorate as it ages. The hybrid dog will experience problems at an earlier rate depending on its activities as well. It may also be born deaf if one of its parent breeds already have hearing problems. Epilepsy The Border Collie breed is widely known for its tendency to suffer from epilepsy more than other dog breeds. The Border Collie German Shepherd mix may inherit this health problem as well. Epilepsy happens when the dog is experiencing episodic seizures. Fortunately, it is a rare disease among dogs. Degenerative Myelopathy When owners notice that the Border Collie German Shepherd mix is starting to walk funny on its back legs, it can be a symptom of Degenerative Myelopathy. This disease currently has no cure. Irresponsible breeders are the most likely reasons for the health issues of a German Shepherd mixed with a Border Collie. Owners must make sure that they are adopting a healthy puppy from a reputable breeder to avoid dealing with a sickly puppy. If the hybrid dog is exhausted from more training than usual, owners can go for 4 cups a day. Bloat and diabetes are two main health problems that can affect a Border Collie crossed with a German Shepherd as both parent breeds may also suffer from them. It is essential for owners to avoid overfeeding this hybrid dog and prevent nutritional imbalances. In such scenarios, products such as Nutra Thrive dog food supplement can be a solution to regain the proper balance of nutrients. Dog owners and lovers must also keep in mind that they need to seek food for the best large breed dry dog food instead of best dry dog food for small dogs. Whatever you do, make sure you steer clear from the worst dry dog food. Try to learn more about the difference between poor-quality and premium-quality chows by checking our best dry dog food guide! The dog food must include joint supplements because large dog breeds are prone to hip dysplasia and other joint ailments. To avoid this, give them kibble that is rich in calcium since puppyhood. Pooches that have entered their golden years will maintain their health properly only if given the right amount of the best senior dry dog food! Dog food must also contain a moderate amount of calories to avoid obesity, which is a common problem among large breeds. The dog food chosen by owners must also have large kibble to avoid letting the dog eat too quickly, which may result in life-threatening conditions like bloat. Here are a few of the most recommended large breed dog food in the US: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula The Blue Buffalo Life dog food is perfect for the German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie because it is full of ingredients rich in antioxidants like kelp, blueberries, sweet potatoes, and carrots. Deboned chicken is also its main ingredient. This brand does not have wheat, soy, or corn. Wellness Core Dog Food The nutritious proteins included in the Wellness Complete Health dog food for large breeds is beneficial for the German Shepherd crossed with Border Collie because it has all the nutrition it needs. This brand contains deboned chicken, salmon meal, and deboned whitefish, which gives the dog food a delicious flavor. It also includes flaxseed, which is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. It also provides for different probiotics for the German Shepherd Border Collie mix. Dog for Dog contains vitamins and minerals to give your Border Collie mixed with German Shepherd the nutrition it needs. This whole-grain brand also contains glucosamine, which helps keep joints healthy. Owners on a budget will find this product affordable. It also helps prevent nutrient deficiency with its vitamins and minerals. The brand also comes with glucosamine and chondroitin, which is good for joint health. Eagle Pack Natural consists only of natural ingredients with no artificial colors and preservatives. It also includes eight probiotic strains to keep the hybrid dog healthy. Pro Plan Focus Weight Management Large Breed This brand is beneficial for large dogs because it can supply them with many complex carbohydrates to sustain their energy levels. It is also helpful for the joint because of it contains glucosamine. This brand attacks specific health issues like joint problems or bloating that a German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie may cross. This brand contains joint supplements, probiotic supplements, and fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants. It is a natural and grain-free product with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It contains antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits, as well as premium proteins. This brand is a grain-free product that will give your hybrid dog enough nutrition for its daily activities and exercises. There are a plethora of good choices for them out there, but make sure to find some of the best dry dog food , for example, Wellness Core Dog Food , Dog For Dog Food , or Nutra Thrive dog food supplement. Puppies and senior dogs have different food requirements, so go through the best puppy food brands in case you own a little munchkin and best senior dry dog food for grandpa and grandma pups. A checkup with your vet will help you opt for some of these. Both of its parent breeds are also very active. This hybrid dog does not do well indoors and needs to have a lot of time running and playing with its owners. An owner of a German Shepherd crossed with Border Collie must commit their time to engage this dog in activities if they want to avoid it from becoming bored and destructive. This dog will become aggressive and timid if it does not participate in mental and physical activities. Its daily exercise requires about 60 minutes of running and playing outside of the house. If you happen to raise a Border Collie German Shepherd mix as a calm and independent dog, 2 hours of separate walks daily can keep it satisfied. Where did the German Shepherd Border Collie mix come from? So their history is the combined history of those two breeds! Based on their heritage, it may be assumed that the hybrid was the result of a desire for the ultimate large dog. One that has athletic ability, agility and a protective yet playful nature. There, early Collies were bred to do much the same thing that they do today. Herd and protect livestock. Sheepdogs such as the Border Collie have been in existence for centuries. Modern Border Collies are still excellent working dogs, especially on ranches. Formed to create the ultimate herding or guide dog. In a climate where working outside often meant braving cold weather and damp conditions, the Shepherd dog had to be tough. The GSD eventually became a refined herding breed known for its stamina and work ethic. The AKC formally recognized the breed in .Later, Shepherds became associated with military, police, and service work. All sectors in which you can find them working in today. Nor what color or length their coats will be. Along with the standard colors that are associated with the parent breeds. Adding another level of possibility is the fact that hybrids may look like a mix of their parents. Height and Weight The German Shepherd and Collie mix has the potential to be a medium or large-sized dog. If the pup takes after its GSD parent, then it may mature to somewhere between 80 and 90 pounds. If she takes after her Border Collie parent, then she may only get to about 40 pounds or so. Most pups will fall somewhere in between. You can expect German Shepherd Collie crosses to reach roughly inches at the shoulder. This is a soft undercoat is below a rough top coat. Or it may come out somewhere in between! No matter which parent it resembles more, a Shollie will require weekly brushing. These needs will increase when seasonal shedding occurs. This is a high shedding dog, that will leave fur and dander around your home. They are unfortunately not suitable pets for a home with human dog allergy sufferers. Bringing a hybrid dog into your home, especially a large one such as the German Shepherd x Border Collie? Are German Shepherd Mixes Aggressive? German Shepherds are often found in the police and military sectors. This line of work has made the breed a bit notorious for being aggressive, and unfairly so. German Shepherds should not all be viewed as aggressive dogs. Police and military dogs are highly trained and intelligent animals. Border Collie German Shepherd mixes are naturally very inquisitive dogs. They do not enjoy sitting without a job to do or a game to play. This can sometimes result in destructive behavior. Especially if a Collie is kept cooped up and without toys or other enrichment activities. With all of this in mind, it is likely that a German Shepherd Collie mix will need to be kept as a working or sporting dog. Unless you will be able to exercise him frequently and provide him with things to keep his busy brain focused. Although a hybrid puppy may be an equal mix of its purebred parents. There is also the possibility that the puppy will take after one parent more so than the other. German Shepherd and Border Collie Health Any type of dog, purebred or hybrid, may be afflicted with inherited or age-related health conditions. Such as hip or elbow dysplasia, eye diseases, allergies, and skin irritations. German Shepherd and Border Collie mixes, however, are particularly prone to the conditions that their parent breeds often develop. One thing to note is that both German Shepherds and Border Collies are both prone to hip dysplasia. So Shollies may be especially at risk of developing this condition. This can help to determine what health problems their offspring may be afflicted with. Additionally, be sure that the breeding stock have good hip scores. Shollies can make great family pets for active homes that are interested in positive reinforcement training. For starters, Shollies are medium- to large-sized working dogs that have pretty high exercise requirements. Weight gain is especially concerning for this hybrid, as it is prone to developing hip dysplasia. They need to have something to occupy their intelligent minds, or they may turn your home into a giant chew toy! Border Collie German Shepherd Mix Puppies There are a lot of factors to consider when deciding whether to bring a Shollie puppy into your home. Absolutely not! If you get a Shollie puppy, their naturally intelligent and highly trainable nature means that you can socialize it to other animals and people. Make sure you meet both parents and are happy with their temperaments and health tests carried out by the breeder. Socialize your pup thoroughly and you could end up with a wonderful companion for many years to come. German shepherds were initially bred in Germany in the 19th century and were officially recognized as a breed in .Border collies are primarily sheepdogs that were officially recognized in the British Isles in the 19th century. Both dog breeds are considered highly intelligent, trainable, and agile. This is why German shepherds have been widely adopted as working dogs and are often seen in military and police roles. Border collies frequently compete with great success in sheepdog trials and are considered among the top sporting dogs. Exactly when the Shollie emerged and precisely what breeders were trying to achieve with the new breed is unclear. But the result tends to be a relatively large and athletic dog that is highly intelligent and protective. Thanks to these traits, the Shollie makes an excellent family dog. It is important to remember that, unlike with purebred dogs, when you mix dog breeds, the results are always a bit unpredictable. Shollie Appearance You can expect Shollies to be fairly large dogs with a lean and athletic physique. According to the breed standard, German shepherds tend to measure 22 to 26 inches tall, with males generally an inch or two larger than females. Border collies are a bit smaller, measuring from 18 to 22 inches. Nevertheless, you will rarely see a Shollie that measures less than 20 inches. They typically weigh around 70 to 90 pounds. While these big dogs are gentle, their substantial size means they can misjudge their strength and could accidentally hurt children or older, more fragile individuals. Shollies can be almost any color combination of their parents, including black, brown, golden, and white, and they are almost always a mix of at least two different colors. They often have attractive mottled patterning. Border collies have a warm undercoat with a protective outer coat that tends to be longer and can be either smooth or shaggy. German shepherds also have a warm undercoat with a longer overcoat. You can expect a Shollie to have a similar double coat, probably with quite long hair. This puts them at a fairly high risk of overheating in hot temperatures. They also tend to shed a lot, and their hair can easily become matted if not brushed regularly to remove shedded hairs that have clung to their coat. Shollies look their best when they receive daily brushing. Most Shollies will have brown eyes and a face with a fairly long muzzle. They can either have the pointed ears of a German shepherd or the floppy ears of a border collie. Shollie Temperament: Athleticism Both German shepherds and border collies are working dogs bred for herding, so they are bred to be active. You can expect their Shollie offspring to have a lot of energy and need quite a bit of exercise. Shollies need a minimum of one hour of exercise per day, preferably split into two or three shorter sessions throughout the day. They will appreciate being taken to off-leash dog parks where they can run around without being restricted by the leash. In addition to this, these dogs will love to accompany their family on outdoor adventures, such as hiking trips and walks. They are agile and intelligent and will be able to look after themselves on hiking trails. Shollie Temperament: Trainability Both border collies and German shepherds are highly intelligent, and their offspring tend to inherit this characteristic. They learn quickly and are highly adaptable. Shollies can generally figure out what is needed from them quickly in new situations. Bred as training dogs, Shollies also tend to be easy to please. More independent and stubborn breeds might know what you want but still not give it to you; this is not the case with the Shollie. They can easily become bored if they do not have tasks to keep them occupied. This is why it is always a good idea to teach them tasks, even if they will be living as a family pet. They will also benefit from complex toys like puzzle games to keep them occupied when left alone. If they are left alone for too long without something to stimulate their brain, they may just find their own entertainment. This tends to be the destructive sort of chewing and digging. Shollie Temperament: Independence Shollies tend to want to be part of the family. They will quickly bond with the people they spend a lot of time with and become protective of them. They will often be on alert when other people or animals approach and can display territorial behavior if they feel threatened. They tend to have an affinity for children and enjoy playing with them, though they should always be supervised around small children. Threats to their little people, in particular, can bring out their protective instinct. Are you worried your dog is overly possessive? Watch out for these important signs. These dogs have a tendency to become anxious or depressed if they are left alone for long periods of time. They are not the type of dog you can leave alone at home for several hours while you are at work. Considering a day care service for your dog? Read our tips for choosing the best day care for your dog. When you are at home, be prepared for plenty of love and affection from your Shollie. These dogs will love to be close to you, whether that means sitting at your feet or snuggling up with you on the couch if you let them. They can live anywhere from 13 to 15 years, which is an impressive lifespan for such a large dog. But, as is the case with many large dogs, they can also suffer from joint issues, in particular hip and elbow dysplasia, which is when the joint socket becomes malformed. The best way to avoid this problem is with a healthy diet and plenty of exercise. Ensuring that their calorie intake matches their energy output is key. Overall, Shollies are among some of the healthiest dogs that you will come across. Should I Get A Shollie? Whether or not a Shollie is the right dog for you depends on a variety of different factors. Consider the following questions when determining whether or not to adopt this crossbreed. Where Do You Live? They will do better in a place with a large backyard where they can keep themselves occupied. Shollies need a lot of exercise. They need a minimum of one hour of exercise each day, preferably spread out over a number of short sessions throughout the day. Do you have the energy to walk your dog every day? Shollies are very social animals, and they can become depressed and anxious if they are forced to spend a lot of time on their own. Is there generally someone at home at your place, or is the house empty for several hours at a time when everyone goes to work? Will your dog get the companionship that they need in your house? If not, be prepared for lots of destructive behavior when your Shollie is left alone. Are You Committed To Training? Luckily, Shollies are intelligent and eager to learn, which means even new dog owners should be able to train them fairly easily. But Shollies are also working dogs, and they often need the mental stimulation of having a task to do to keep them occupied. This means training them is not just about controlling their behavior; it is also about keeping them occupied. This is why it can be useful to teach your Shollie tricks. Is this something that you will be willing to do? If not, perhaps a smaller and more passive breed is better suited to your lifestyle. Do you live somewhere that is likely to be too hot for them? There is no escaping the fact that Shollies are shedders, and dealing with dog hair is a fact of life when you have one of these dogs. If you suffer from allergies or asthma, you might want to consider a different dog. Do you have someone who can take in your Shollie when you travel? Alternatively, do you have access to a large kennel that gives them plenty of room? Your dog will suffer if they need to stay in a small cage for a few weeks while you are away. Can You Afford A Shollie? Dog ownership, regardless of the breed you choose, can be surprisingly expensive. While you may already realize that the cost of their food will add up, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Yes, Shollies are excellent dogs, as they are intelligent and trainable pups with a friendly temperament. They are high-energy dogs that need lots of exercise, love, and affection, so they are a big commitment in terms of time, but otherwise they are relatively low maintenance. Are Shollies aggressive? Any dog that has been through traumatic situations can become aggressive. So, if you are adopting an older Shollie that may have come from a difficult home, speak to the adoption agency about any behavioral issues that they might have and how to properly handle them. How much is a Shollie puppy? How much a Shollie puppy costs will depend largely on where you get them from. You may be able to find a Shollie at a local shelter, in which case you may only need to cover the administrative costs of the service. Do Shollies bark a lot? They can be trained not to bark when it is not necessary, for example, when people pass your home. If your dog starts barking a lot for no apparent reason, it can be a sign that there is something wrong health-wise. Which is better, male or female Shollies? Whether you should get a male or female Shollie depends on your priorities. Females tend to be a bit smaller, and they are also more focused on tasks if you want a working dog. Males tend to be more easygoing and less likely to engage in excessively protective behavior. The Verdict On Shollies When you are a first-time dog owner, you are often told to steer clear of the more athletic dog breeds, as they tend to be a handful and need an experienced hand. But if you are looking for a pup to accompany you on all of your adventures, this can be disappointing. If the above sounds like you, then a Shollie, a border collie and German shepherd mix, might be the right pup for you! Shollies are very energetic and athletic dogs that will quickly become part of the family. You will probably want to take them with you on all of your weekend adventures. What you do need, however, is the time and space in your home to take on this boisterous new member of the family. Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. You probably already know that learning how to potty train a German Shepherd puppy can be a stressful time. But… once you know these easy steps, great things happen! Knowing how to potty train your German Shepherd is vital to having a happy, comfortable life with them. Use this training consistently to have the most effect. A proactive approach works best. Which means you should… focus on preventing accidents, instead of waiting on them to happen! Follow a strict feeding and bathroom schedule to see the best results. Basically, you teach your German Shepherd puppy the right potty skills… until it becomes a habit humanesociety. The key to quick success is taking your pup out every 2 to 3 hours and never giving the opportunity for them to have an accident inside. This means at least 8 to 10 trips outside every single day! In their welcoming and safe crate either resting, eating their meals, or enjoying a play toy. In an exercise pen or playpen with a strict potty area. Under your direct, undivided attention. This means you are always watching your pup. All it takes is for you to check your phone for a few seconds for your pup to have a toileting accident! You can either use a crate to speed up their potty training or provide them an area indoors to eliminate. I prefer the crate method. Housebreaking with the use of a crate speeds up your success rate incredibly! But you want to use the crate positively so they learn to love their little den. Make their crate an enjoyable and inviting place to go. How to show your pup how to love their crate: Never force your pup into their crate! Take your time with crate introduction and allow them to explore under their own will. Serve your pup at least one meal a day inside their crate. Use a Kong with their meal stuffed inside and mixed with a small spoonful of unsweetened Greek yogurt or peanut butter to entice them to stay and work on the Kong inside the crate. Offer treats when they willingly go inside to rest or explore their crate. Use a verbal cue when you want your pup to go into the crate. You can learn all the benefits of teaching your dog to use their crate in this easy post on crate training your German Shepherd successfully. Check it out to get the complete facts, tips, and step-by-step instructions to perfect crate training today. Use Puppy Pads You can use puppy pads if you need to… or skip to step 4 to learn potty training without pads. Not going to use puppy pads? You can skip to step 4. But… if you prefer to use puppy pads, then you need an area where you always take your dog when they need to go to the bathroom. Preferably place their pads near the door that you eventually want them to use to go outside. Place more pads down than you think you need at first. This is because puppies have poor aim and also may find a spot they prefer other than the one you pick. After a couple of weeks, you may remove the extra pads until there are only two puppy pads on the floor in the primary area they prefer to go. Keep the food and water area away from the puppy pads in another place. Using Puppy Pads Successfully Change your puppy pads as they become soiled. But a lightly soiled pad is attractive to your pup in the beginning stages of training and helps them learn the right area to potty indoors at first. Once they are reliably using the correct spot, you need not continue to use this trick and can throw away the pads as they become too soiled. Training Them to Go Outside After Using Pads Indoors If you set up your pads near the door you use to take them outside to their elimination area, then you can transition them to go outside more easily. So, place or move your puppy pads closer to the door from their original spot to begin the transition to the outdoors. When your pads are close to the door, watch them for their elimination signs and get them to the outside as swiftly as you can. While I generally use a crate to house train my German Shepherd puppy I also totally understand that you might prefer to learn how to potty train a German Shepherd puppy using a puppy pad for any number of reasons. Teach Them a Potty Routine Every day, follow the same routine and schedule to keep your puppy from having accidents inside your house. Teaching your dog to eliminate outside means that you must have a strict schedule. Watch for signs that your pup needs to go potty so you can avoid indoor accidents. Morning Potty Routine First thing in the morning when you let your pup out of their crate or from their sleeping area take them to their potty spot. If in doubt, carry them outside yourself. If you will not leash your pup when you take them out in the morning, then run ahead of them to lead them outside quickly. If you have stairs, carry your pup since rushing downstairs on a full bladder is never a good idea. Outside Potty Routine Stay with your pup until they do their business. You can place your pup in a small confined area to go potty or keep them leashed to you. Stand quietly until they potty. Then, praise them and offer a tasty treat. This can bore you at first, but potty training a German Shepherd puppy becomes easier every day. After 10 to 15 minutes, take them out of their crate and repeat the above process. Learning how to potty train a German Shepherd puppy takes repetition and patience. How do you know when to take your GSD puppy outside to potty? Take them out after a nap. They need to relieve themselves after sleeping or napping in their crates. Take them out after a play session. Take them out after they drink a large amount of water. Take them out first thing in the morning and the last thing before you place them in their crate or go to bed. Take your dog out when their body language says they are searching for a potty spot! You should take out your German Shepherd puppy every 2 hours for an 8-week-old pup. Add an hour for each month your pup is old. So, a week-old dog needs to go out every 3 hours. And a week-old German Shepherd needs to go outside to relieve herself every 4 hours. Puppy Age How often do you take them outside to potty? Lucky for you, German Shepherds are the third most intelligent dog breed in the world next to the Border Collie and the Poodle. Which means it is the most intelligent large dog breed. Being obedient is natural for them. They can learn tricks in a snap of a finger. Plus, their character trait of being a pleaser makes them highly trainable. So, that makes German Shepherd puppies one of the easiest dog breeds to potty train. It means having the time and energy to teach them, especially potty-training. Generally, German Shepherd potty-training age or house-breaking age should be as young as possible. Depending on its age, it can hold its bladder from 30 minutes up to 4 hrs. When a GSD puppy reaches weeks, it has the ability to hold its bladder for up to 2 hours. At 16 weeks, a GSD puppy can hold its bladder from 2 hours up to 4 hours. By the time it is 6 months old, it should be completely potty-trained. Luckily, for owners whose puppies were born in the house, GSD moms will be responsible for cleaning up the mess. But owners are expected to potty-train them before they get used to messing up everywhere. There are many ways of potty-training pets, and the best way to potty-train a German Shepherd puppy depends on which method you will use. What matters is how effective the method is for your GSD puppy and the amount of time and patience that you have. Choosing a suitable spot One known GSD behavior is dominance. If an owner will let the GSD puppy choose the spot where it wants to relieve itself, chances are, it will always do its business there. So, owners should act as the leader of the pack to avoid disobedience. That spot should be comfortable enough for your GSD puppy and convenient enough for you to clean up. Which means their potty time will depend on their meal times. Meal is not the only reason for relieving themselves. Activities will make them very excited, so be ready to let them relieve right after. Command Use one command to signal your GSD puppy to go potty. This command should be used all throughout the entire potty training period. Rewards Give your GSD puppy small treats or even toys and praise it for doing such a good job. Positive reinforcement will encourage your puppy to do the same behavior. You need patience, time and dedication. Some training methods are quite confusing for owners. Here are a few things that owners might want to consider. To crate or not to crate See also Pannus and other German Shepherd Eye Problems Crate training is a good way to train your puppy not to make a mess in your home. For some dedicated pet owners, aside from potty times after meals, they choose to give their puppies early morning and late evening potty time They are also especially alert when their puppies are crying or making sounds at night. This approach might make you feel a little sleepless at first, but consider the benefits you will gain. Dog training pads Dog training pads can help you prevent your GSD puppy to make a mess in your house. Most potty pads or training pads are made of absorbent materials with odor control that keeps your floor clean and mess-free. The problem is, your puppy might get used to the idea that it can relieve itself in the house anytime it wants to. Plus, it might take time to wean your GSD puppy off from potty pads. But if you need to go to work or you need to leave your GSD puppy at home, you can use potty pads to avoid mess. There are a number of pet owners who choose to keep their puppies in their house on a leash instead of crate training. It usually takes a few weeks to 4 months for puppies to completely learn potty-training. The younger the puppy the better it will adapt to potty-training. The more patient the owner, the faster it will take for the puppy to be fully potty-trained. Be consistent on the routine that you have set. GSD puppies are known for their obedience. So, being consistent in the routine will result in success. Strictly follow regular feeding and potty time schedules. Do not overfeed your puppy especially at night. Observe your puppy before and after going to the loo. This will help you identify when it needs to have a go. Use potty-training spray to encourage your GSD puppy to relieve in your chosen spot. Do not play with your puppy when bringing it to the designated potty area. Or else, it will forget the purpose of going out. Always use commands and hand signals everytime you bring your puppy out for potty time. This is for your puppy to recall the meaning of your command and hand signals. Conclusion German Shepherd potty-training might be a little challenging in the beginning, but with your patience and understanding, it will take no time at all before you can successfully potty-train them. There are many techniques that you can choose, the keypoint is it should be according to your capabilities and time. Always remember that GSDs are highly intelligent dogs. If you start potty-training right, it will end in success. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Most dogs do not have full bladder control until they are six months old. This means that even if your puppy does learn to hold it, accidents may still happen if it is left inside too long. Not potty training early can extend the process and make things harder. As the puppy grows, the mess and smells will increase. It is also harder to break an existing habit than prevent one from starting in the first place. How long on average does it take to potty train a puppy? If everything goes according to plan, your German Shepherd can be potty trained within five days. However, that does not mean your pup will be able to be locked indoors for eight hours while you go to work and not make a mess. Therefore, a two-month-old puppy needs to go out every two hours. A three-month-old can hold for three, and so on. German Shepherds also often have a high play drive and might completely forget that they need to potty when they want to play instead. There are few things more frustrating than playing outside with your puppy for an hour, only to have them calm down enough to relieve themselves the moment they come indoors. Have a complimentary diet An upset stomach is one of the most common setbacks in housetraining. In particular, puppies are vulnerable to garbage gut because they tend to eat anything smelly or exciting. This is another reason to make use of a crate. Excellent digestive health is not only good for your puppy, but it makes it much easier to stick to your routine. Use a specific door By now, you might be noticing a theme of consistency and routine emerging. Taking your puppy out through the same door helps condition and imprint the housetraining process on your dog and will also serve you later when your dog learns to always ask to go outside at the same door. Leash and lead The leash or lead is a further way of conditioning your puppy. The lead ensures that you can keep them close and make sure they always go to the specific spotty to potty. Do some research on the best collar for German Shephards , as there are some breed specific requirements. Then give a treat or some playtime to reward the correct behavior. Guide your dog back inside A potty run needs to be conditioned as a potty run. While praise, playtime, and treats should be used to make it a positive experience, your pup must learn to stay focused on the task at hand. Creating a negative experience for your dog is more likely to cause sneaky behavior such as peeing and pooping secretly out of fear that you will reprimand them if caught. Make sure you check on your puppy at least twice throughout the night Set an alarm clock and check if your puppy is awake and restless at least twice a night. This is your cue to take the pup outside. If the crate is near your bed and you are a light sleeper, you will likely wake when you hear rustling or whimpering. Stick to a routine A rigid routine is the quickest and smoothest route to a house-trained puppy. Be sure to take the puppy outside as soon as it wakes up in the morning, as well as after a nap, after playtime, and after meals. Until they are at least twelve weeks old, they should be taken out a minimum every two hours during the day. Positive Reinforcement As with all dog training, positive reinforcement works best. Make sure to praise and reward within three seconds of your puppy going potty to make a positive association. While your German Shepherd is learning that the entire house is out of bounds for elimination, the crate is a useful tool to avoid accidents. Once this has been achieved, you can gradually allow your puppy more free rein indoors. Pee Pads are not helpful. German shepherd puppies exhibit a range of characteristics, intelligence, and energy levels that are influenced by both genetics and upbringing. Here's an overview of these aspects: Temperament: These puppies are often characterized by their loyalty, courage, and protective nature. They tend to be naturally alert and can make excellent watchdogs. However, proper socialization and training from an early age are essential to ensure they grow up to be well-mannered and friendly around people and other animals. Curiosity: German shepherd puppies are typically curious and eager to explore their environment. This makes them receptive to learning and training. Intelligence: German shepherds are renowned for their high level of intelligence. They consistently rank among the most intelligent dog breeds. This intelligence makes them quick learners and adaptable to various training tasks and commands. They often excel in obedience training, agility, and even tasks like search and rescue, police work, and service dog roles. High Energy: German shepherd puppies are quite energetic, especially during their puppyhood and adolescence. They have a lot of stamina and require regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally engaged. Without proper outlets for their energy, they may become restless or display unwanted behaviors. Playfulness: Their high energy levels are often exhibited through their playful behavior. They enjoy interactive play sessions and activities that challenge their physical and mental abilities. Need for Activity: Daily exercise is crucial to help burn off their excess energy and prevent boredom. Activities like long walks, runs, playtime, and training sessions can help keep them content and well-behaved. It's important to note that while these general characteristics apply to the breed as a whole, individual puppies may vary. Genetics, early socialization, training, and the environment they are raised in all play a significant role in shaping their personalities and behavior as they grow into adults. If you're considering bringing a German shepherd puppy into your home, be prepared to invest time and effort into training, socialization, and providing the necessary mental and physical stimulation they need to thrive. Why are tailored potty training methods essential for German Shepherds? Tailored potty training methods are essential for German shepherds, as well as for any other dog breed. However, German shepherds have specific characteristics that can influence the effectiveness of their potty training. Here's why tailored training is particularly important for German shepherds: Intelligence and Learning Ability: German shepherds are highly intelligent and quick learners. This means that they can grasp training concepts relatively quickly, but it also means that they can become bored with repetitive training methods. Tailoring the training approach to their intelligence level helps keep them engaged and motivated to learn. Strong Work Drive: German shepherds are known for their strong work ethic and drive to perform tasks. This can be harnessed during potty training by providing consistent routines and clear expectations. They respond well to structured training that aligns with their natural desire to please their owners. Observant Nature: German shepherds are naturally observant and alert to their surroundings. This can be an advantage during training, as they can quickly associate specific cues with certain actions or behaviors. Tailored training methods can take advantage of their keen observational skills to reinforce proper potty behavior. Physical and Mental Stimulation: These dogs have high energy levels and require both physical and mental stimulation. Tailored potty training can incorporate activities that engage their minds while teaching them appropriate elimination behaviors. This helps prevent boredom and unwanted behaviors that can arise from a lack of mental engagement. Individual Variability: Just like people, each dog has its own personality, preferences, and needs. What works for one German Shepherd might not work as effectively for another. Tailored training methods take into consideration the specific needs and behaviors of the individual dog, increasing the chances of successful training outcomes. Avoiding Negative Associations: German Shepherds are sensitive dogs, and negative experiences during training can have a lasting impact. Tailoring the training approach helps avoid creating negative associations with potty training, which can lead to anxiety or reluctance to eliminate in appropriate places. Bonding and Trust: Tailored training methods, implemented with patience and consistency, contribute to building a strong bond of trust between the owner and the dog. This bond is crucial for effective training and overall positive behavior. In summary, while the principles of potty training apply to all dog breeds, the unique characteristics of German shepherds, such as their intelligence, work drive, and individual variability, make it essential to tailor the training methods to their specific needs. This approach ensures that they learn effectively, stay engaged, and develop good habits that last a lifetime. A young boy in a yellow tee shirt and khaki pants holds his hand in the air above a German shepherd puppy in a back yard filled with shady trees. Why is it important to establish a routine and consistent schedule for potty breaks? Establishing a routine and consistent schedule for potty breaks is crucial for effective potty training and maintaining good bathroom habits in dogs, including German Shepherds. Here's why: Predictability: Dogs thrive on predictability and routine. When you establish a consistent schedule for potty breaks, your dog learns to anticipate when it's time to go outside. This reduces accidents inside the house and helps them develop a reliable bathroom routine. Reinforcing Good Behavior: Consistency helps reinforce the behavior you want to encourage. When you consistently take your dog outside at specific times, and they successfully eliminate outdoors, you're rewarding and reinforcing the behavior of going in the appropriate place. Preventing Accidents: A consistent schedule minimizes the chances of accidents inside the house. Dogs have limited bladder control, especially puppies, and if they don't get regular opportunities to relieve themselves, accidents are more likely to happen. Training Association: Establishing a routine helps your dog associate specific times and cues with potty breaks. For example, using a consistent command or signal when you take your dog outside to potty helps them understand what's expected of them. Fostering Communication: Dogs can't verbally tell us when they need to go outside. A regular potty schedule encourages them to communicate their needs through behavior, such as standing by the door or whining when they need to relieve themselves. Developing Bladder Control: Puppies, in particular, have developing bladder control. A consistent schedule helps them gradually increase their ability to hold it in between potty breaks. Strengthening Bond: A routine that includes regular walks and potty breaks reinforces your bond with your dog. These activities provide quality time for interaction and mutual trust-building. Reducing Stress and Anxiety: Dogs are creatures of habit, and a predictable routine can reduce stress and anxiety. Knowing when they'll have opportunities to relieve themselves can make them more relaxed and confident. Quicker Learning: With a consistent routine, dogs learn faster. They understand the cause-and-effect relationship between going outside and being rewarded. This speeds up the potty training process. Setting a Foundation: A consistent routine during potty training sets the foundation for other forms of training and discipline. It establishes a structured environment that helps your dog understand expectations and boundaries. In the case of German shepherds, who are intelligent and quick learners, a well-established routine can be especially effective in teaching them proper potty habits. Remember that during the early stages of potty training, close supervision and adherence to the schedule are crucial for success. As your dog becomes more reliable, you can gradually adjust the schedule to align with their changing needs. Crate Training Crate training can be a valuable tool for successful housebreaking, and it is often recommended by dog trainers and veterinarians. Crate training helps create a safe and controlled environment for your dog while aiding in the potty training process. Here's why crate training is beneficial for housebreaking: Instinctive Denning Behavior: Dogs have a natural instinct to seek out small, secure spaces for rest and safety. A crate serves as a den-like space where your dog is less likely to eliminate, which aligns with their natural tendency to keep their sleeping area clean. Bladder and Bowel Control: Crate training helps your dog develop bladder and bowel control. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area, and when confined to a crate, they are more likely to hold their bladder and wait for an appropriate time to eliminate. Preventing Accidents: Using a crate when you cannot directly supervise your dog helps prevent accidents inside the house. Dogs are less likely to pee or poop in their crate, and this can minimize the chances of them developing a habit of going indoors. Establishing Routine: Crate training can be integrated into a consistent routine for potty breaks. You can take your dog out of the crate to the designated potty area at specific intervals, such as after meals, playtime, or waking up. This routine helps reinforce proper elimination behavior. Positive Association: When crate training is done correctly, dogs come to view their crates as a safe and comfortable space. This positive association reduces anxiety and stress associated with confinement. Easier Supervision: Crate training provides a way to manage your dog's behavior when you can't directly supervise them. This is particularly useful during times when you're unable to watch for signs that they need to eliminate. Gradual Transition: Crate training allows for a gradual transition to having more freedom in the house as your dog becomes reliable with their potty habits. It's a step-by-step process that helps prevent setbacks. Faster Learning: Using a crate speeds up the housebreaking process, as it teaches your dog to hold their bladder and wait for appropriate times to eliminate. This can result in quicker success with potty training. Safety and Comfort: When introduced properly, a crate becomes a safe and comfortable space for your dog to rest, especially when you're not home. It reduces the likelihood of destructive behavior that might occur when your dog is left unsupervised. Remember that successful crate training requires patience, positive reinforcement, and proper introduction. The crate should never be used as a form of punishment, and your dog should not be confined for extended periods without breaks. Gradually increasing the time your dog spends in the crate and using it in conjunction with a consistent potty training routine will contribute to a successful housebreaking experience. A German shepherd lays down in a grassy yard while his owner and a child sit in the background. Positive Reinforcement Using positive reinforcement while potty training your German shepherd involves tailoring your approach to their specific needs and characteristics. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to effectively use positive reinforcement during potty training: Choose High-Value Rewards: Select treats or rewards that your German shepherd finds particularly enticing. This might be small pieces of soft treats, bits of cooked chicken, or cheese. The more your dog values the reward, the more effective it will be. Immediate Rewards: As soon as your German shepherd finishes eliminating in the designated area, provide immediate praise, petting, and the chosen reward. The timing is important for them to understand the connection between the behavior and the reward. Ignore Accidents: If your German shepherd has an accident indoors, remain calm. Do not punish them, as it can create confusion and anxiety. Instead, clean up the mess calmly and focus on rewarding them for proper behavior outside. Positive Association: Make the outdoor potty area a positive place for your German shepherd. Use a cheerful tone of voice when you go out and encourage them to explore and sniff around. This helps them associate the area with a positive experience. Celebrate Progress: Celebrate every small victory. If your German shepherd signals that they need to go out, responds to the command, or consistently eliminates in the right area, give them extra praise and rewards. This encourages them to continue the behavior. Gradual Transition: As your German shepherd becomes more reliable with their potty habits, gradually reduce the frequency of treats while maintaining verbal praise. This transition helps them understand that they're doing the right thing even without a treat every time. Be Patient and Consistent: Potty training takes time and consistency. Be patient and understand that accidents are a normal part of the process. Maintain a positive and patient attitude throughout the training period. Using positive reinforcement with your German shepherd will help them learn quickly, build a strong bond with you, and develop good potty habits. Adapt the rewards and training methods based on your dog's preferences and responses to ensure a successful and positive potty training experience. Potential Problems and Challenges While the basic principles of potty training apply to all dog breeds, German shepherds may present certain challenges due to their specific characteristics. Here are some potential challenges that can be unique to German shepherds during potty training: High Energy Levels: German shepherds are energetic dogs that require regular exercise and mental stimulation. If they have excess energy, they might become restless and have a harder time focusing on potty training. Ensuring they get enough physical activity can help them stay calmer and more receptive to training. Boredom-Related Accidents: Due to their intelligence, German shepherds can become bored easily. If they're not mentally engaged, they might have accidents indoors out of frustration or lack of stimulation. Providing them with puzzle toys, interactive play, and training sessions can help prevent this. Sensitivity to Environment: German shepherds can be sensitive to changes in their environment, and this can affect their potty training. Moving to a new home, changes in routine, or unfamiliar surroundings might lead to accidents as they adapt. It's important to offer reassurance and consistency during transitions. Separation Anxiety: German shepherds are known for forming strong bonds with their owners. If they experience separation anxiety, they might have accidents when left alone due to stress. Gradually increasing alone time, using positive reinforcement, and creating a secure environment can help alleviate separation anxiety-related issues. Territorial Behavior: German shepherds can be territorial, which might lead to marking behaviors indoors. This is more common in unneutered males but can occur in females as well. Neutering and consistent training can help address this behavior. Stubbornness: While German shepherds are intelligent, they can also be a bit stubborn. Some may challenge your authority during training, which can slow down the potty training process. Consistent, patient, and positive training methods are essential to overcome this challenge. Need for Socialization: Proper socialization is crucial for German shepherds. If they haven't been exposed to different environments, surfaces, and people, they might have trouble adapting to new potty areas or become anxious when trying to eliminate in unfamiliar places. Distractions: German shepherds have a strong prey drive and can be easily distracted by sights, sounds, and scents. This might lead to them losing focus during potty breaks. Training in a calm and less stimulating environment initially can help them focus better. Developing Bladder Control: Puppies of any breed, including German shepherds, have developing bladder control. This can lead to more frequent accidents during the early stages of potty training. Consistent routine, patience, and gradual extension of time between potty breaks are important. Addressing these challenges requires a tailored approach to potty training. Positive reinforcement, consistent routine, early socialization, patience, and a good understanding of your German shepherd's individual personality and needs are key to successfully overcoming these potential challenges. Common Mistakes to Avoid Certainly, there are common mistakes to avoid that could hinder the potty training progress of a German shepherd puppy: Inconsistent Routine: Inconsistency in potty break times and locations can confuse your puppy. Stick to a regular schedule and designate a specific outdoor spot for them to eliminate. Punishment: Punishing your puppy for accidents indoors can create fear and anxiety, making potty training more difficult. Positive reinforcement works best. Lack of Supervision: Not closely supervising your puppy, especially during the initial stages, increases the likelihood of accidents and missed opportunities for proper training. Ignoring Signals: Overlooking signs that your puppy needs to eliminate, such as circling, sniffing, or whining, can lead to accidents. Not Cleaning Accidents Properly: Failing to thoroughly clean indoor accidents with an enzymatic cleaner can leave lingering scents that encourage repeat behavior. Using the Crate Ineffectively: Overusing the crate or leaving your puppy in it for extended periods can lead to discomfort and potentially undermine positive associations. Rushing the Transition: Moving from indoor pads to outdoor potty training too quickly can confuse your puppy. Gradually phase out indoor options as they adapt. Neglecting Socialization: Insufficient socialization can lead to anxiety during outdoor potty breaks. Introduce your puppy to various environments, sounds, and surfaces. Inadequate Positive Reinforcement: Failing to provide immediate rewards and praise for proper outdoor elimination may result in slower progress. Overlooking Medical Issues: Sometimes accidents may be due to medical issues. If accidents persist despite consistent training, consult a veterinarian. Lack of Patience: Potty training takes time and patience. Expecting overnight results can lead to frustration and hinder progress. Avoiding these common mistakes and consistently using positive reinforcement, effective training techniques, and patience will set the foundation for successful potty training with your German Shepherd puppy. Tracking Progress and Making Changes To effectively track your German shepherd puppy's progress and adjust training methods, maintain a detailed record of potty successes and accidents, noting patterns in timing and behavior. Regularly review this log to identify trends and adjust the potty schedule accordingly. If accidents occur, reflect on possible triggers or changes in routine that might have contributed. Be flexible and adapt training techniques to address specific challenges such as boredom-related accidents, separation anxiety, or distraction, utilizing positive reinforcement, consistent routine, and tailored approaches to ensure steady progress and successful potty training. Recognize signs of readiness for longer intervals between potty breaks in your German shepherd puppy by observing consistent successful elimination outdoors, fewer accidents indoors, increased ability to hold it in between breaks, and signs of increased bladder control such as longer periods of play without needing to eliminate. Additionally, if your puppy consistently signals when they need to go out, understands and responds to your potty command, and can stay calm and focused during play without becoming anxious for potty breaks, these are indicators that they may be ready for gradually extended intervals between potty outings. Always monitor your puppy's comfort level and adjust the intervals gradually to avoid setbacks in their potty training progress. FAQs How can German shepherd puppies' intelligence be harnessed during potty training for quicker results? Harness your German shepherd puppy's intelligence during potty training for quicker results by incorporating mental stimulation into the training routine. Utilize their ability to learn quickly by teaching them a specific potty command, such as "go potty," and consistently using it during outdoor breaks. Additionally, employ positive reinforcement by rewarding them immediately with high-value treats and enthusiastic praise when they eliminate in the desired area. Engage their intelligence with short training sessions that include basic obedience cues, which not only keep them mentally engaged but also reinforce your role as the leader. By keeping their minds active and challenged, you enhance their focus and comprehension of potty training expectations, leading to faster and more successful training outcomes. What strategies can help owners manage the breed's high energy levels while focusing on potty training? To manage the high energy levels of a German shepherd puppy while focusing on potty training, incorporate regular, vigorous exercise sessions that help burn off excess energy and reduce restlessness. Designate specific playtimes and walks to align with potty breaks, ensuring they are exercised before these breaks to increase the likelihood of successful outdoor elimination. Utilize mental stimulation through interactive toys, puzzle games, and short training sessions to engage their intelligence and provide mental outlets for their energy. Establish a consistent potty schedule that aligns with their routine, and reward proper elimination with high-value treats and enthusiastic praise. Combining physical exercise, mental engagement, and a structured routine helps manage their energy while effectively training them to develop good potty habits. Are there specific environmental triggers that German shepherds may respond to during potty training? German shepherds, like all dogs, may respond to specific environmental triggers during potty training. These triggers can include scents, sounds, and routines associated with going outside. They may become excited and attentive when they hear the sound of a leash, see you getting ready for a walk, or recognize the specific door you use to go outside for potty breaks. Additionally, the scent of their designated potty area or the presence of other animals' scents outdoors might prompt them to engage in elimination behavior. Utilizing these triggers intentionally and consistently can help your German Shepherd associate them with the appropriate time and place for elimination, contributing to successful potty training. How can owners transition from indoor potty training to successful outdoor training as their German shepherd puppy grows? Transitioning from indoor potty training to successful outdoor training as your German shepherd puppy grows requires a gradual process. Start by moving the indoor potty area closer to the door leading outside. Encourage your puppy to use this area consistently before venturing outside. As your puppy becomes reliable in using the designated indoor area, gradually move it closer to the outdoor potty spot. Once your puppy is comfortable with this transition, consistently take them outside to the designated spot for potty breaks. Use a command or cue to encourage elimination, reward success with positive reinforcement, and maintain a consistent schedule to reinforce outdoor habits. Patience and positive reinforcement will help your puppy smoothly transition from indoor to outdoor potty training while adapting to their growing needs. German shepherds are intelligent, energetic dogs that require tailored training approaches. Positive reinforcement, consistency, and patience are key to successful potty training. Establishing a routine and using a crate effectively can aid in teaching them proper elimination habits. It's important to recognize the unique challenges such as high energy levels, sensitivity, and potential distractions that German shepherds may present during potty training. By harnessing their intelligence, adapting to their needs, and providing mental stimulation, owners can navigate these challenges and achieve quicker results. Transitioning from indoor to outdoor training requires a gradual process, and avoiding common mistakes like inconsistency, punishment, and inadequate supervision is vital for a smooth potty training journey. For more information on potty training, check out these articles:. Puppies Puppy accidents are inevitable and can also be the most frustrating part of welcoming a new dog into your household. However, with a little bit of patience and the commitment to establishing a routine, you should get your GSD puppy potty trained in no time. This article will dive into how to potty train a German Shepherd puppy as well as give you step-by-step instructions and tips for success. German Shepherds become aware of their ability to control their bodily functions at around 3 weeks old. However, it is best to start potty training as soon as you bring your puppy home, usually, this is around 8 weeks of age. So, a 2-month old can hold their pee for about 2 hours. To avoid accidents, take them for potty breaks once every hour. No, not all adult German Shepherds are potty trained. Nevertheless, the general process of training an adult is pretty much the same as potty training a puppy. The key is in setting your rules and establishing a routine from the beginning. Ideally, choose a relatively quiet place. German Shepherds, like many other dog breeds, are creatures of habit. Having a designated potty area and using it consistently is key to making this process work smoothly. When dogs eliminate, their urine and feces leave behind a unique scent. Smelling it will signal to their brains that it is, indeed, time to go potty. Step 2: Establish a schedule Just like having a consistent potty area, sticking to a regular schedule is essential. Take very young puppies to their designated potty area every hour. As they age and as they become familiar with the routine, you can lengthen the time between their potty breaks. Start by choosing a command and sticking with it. When your pup gets to their potty spot, say your chosen command. Then say your command again and praise your pup as soon as your pup has successfully eliminated. You can usually tell this by their body language. Keep doing that until you can just give the command and your pup knows to squat and poop. Step 4: Reinforce positive potty behavior Whenever your GSD pup potties successfully, give them a good time! Reward them especially when they potty on command. Make sure you give them lots of praises and maybe a good head scratch. Depending on what motivates them, reward them with food or play. Step 5: Give it time and patience Following these steps will give you the best chance of success, but expect it to take some time. Top Tips for Potty Training Success German Shepherds are easy to train , so by following the proper potty training steps, you should get your GSD pup housebroken in no time. Nevertheless, here are some tips that will set you up for success and allow you to get over this tedious phase much more quickly: Tip 1: Make crate training a priority Crate training offers plenty of critical benefits, especially to puppies. Apart from providing a private space where they can feel safe, the right crate can be an excellent housebreaking tool. Tip 2: Establish a routine German Shepherds tend to thrive on a daily routine, so try your best to make every day the same for them. It will also help you more accurately predict when they need to go potty. Try to limit feeding times to three times a day for puppies younger than 6 months. German Shepherds that are at least 6 months old can eat once in the morning and then again in the evening. Tip 4: Withhold water at night Dogs should always have access to clean drinking water, but free access to a water bowl will make potty training more difficult. Once housebroken, your dog can have free access to water. When you take your dog out to potty, try to keep yourself relaxed and only talk when giving the potty command. This will also make your post-potty reward extra special. Disciplining your puppy for a potty accident is likely to do more harm. It will lead to negative potty behavior like being afraid to eliminate in your presence as well as feeling anxiety over having to pee or poop. Just clean it up and hope you can both do better next time. If your dog is having accidents too regularly, you likely need to take your dog out more frequently to prevent it. This is also the best way to maintain proper hygiene and good health. Tip 8: Listen and observe Dogs have their own way of communicating and will be especially communicative when they need to go potty. Some dogs might whine while others paw at the door. You just need to establish a routine and give them time to develop full control over their bladder and bowels. As long as you are committed to following your protocol, you should be able to enjoy a fully housebroken dog soon enough. Do not allow the puppy to be alone at all! This means that they actually seek out places where they feel safe and enclosed. This is why your GSD may often go under tables or covers. So training with a crate is actually comforting to your dog. My GSD loves his crate. Your puppy has a few natural instincts. These include: not use the bathroom in its own bed to pee and poop after eating By using a crate, you are creating a space where your puppy has room only to sleep or lie down, so it will be hesitant to go potty while inside. This could not be further from the truth. Crate training is beneficial for both you and your dog. So really, ignore the naysayers. Crate training your puppy is efficient and effective. Choosing a crate A crate should have only enough room in it for your GSD puppy to stand, sit, and lie down. This does not mean that you need to keep upsizing your crate — as we know, GSD puppies grow up quickly. Instead, make sure that you choose a large crate that has a divider in it. The divider can be moved back in the crate as your puppy grows. If you already have a crate without a divider, not to worry. You can place a cardboard box inside of the crate that takes up the space that a divider would have blocked off. As mentioned above, keep your eye on your dog. Look for signs that your puppy may need to go potty. Your puppy may indicate this by whining or scratching at the gate of the cage. This is going to build a positive association with your dog between letting you know it has to go and actually going potty. Because there is a difference between your puppy simply whining because it wants out of the crate and when it needs to relieve itself. If you know that your puppy just wants out to play, you need to recognize this and ignore these calls for attention. Know whether it genuinely needs to go potty or whether it is just calling for attention. This will save you a lot of stress and it will also give your puppy the opportunity to get used to the crate. Choosing a potty place Staying with the understanding that your puppy makes connections to form its behavior patterns, you need to choose a designated outside area for your puppy to relieve itself. Here are a few rules to follow with this: Make sure that it is a convenient place. And also take the weather into account. You want to make sure that if it is raining or snowing that the spot is still quickly and easily accessible. Make sure that you are consistently taking your puppy to the same area every time. This will build the association within your puppy, and its pattern will be to use the same place to go potty each time. Praise your puppy for going potty in this place. Use the same word and the same tone each time. As we know, puppies pattern their behavior and build associations quickly. This may cause your puppy to hold its bladder. Holding its bladder is unhealthy for your puppy, and may even lead to serious health problems, including: urinary tract infections.

One of the biggest pros of having a Labradoodle is that they are non or low shedding and generally more hypoallergenic than other breeds. That being said, a determining factor of this is coat type. As a trusted breeder of Labradoodles and other poodle mixes for the past eight years and having raised multiple litters of Labradoodles myself, I can tell you about some ways you can try to predict the kind of coat that your Labradoodle puppy will have. To determine the coat type of a Labradoodle puppy, one must look at a few aspects of the puppy. First, the puppy's muzzle or face should be looked at to see if there are curls, crimps, or waves. Another indicator of coat type is the texture of both the puppy and its parents' coats. Before we get further into discussing how to tell what coat type your puppy will have, let's talk about the different coat types. We will also talk about how genetics influence coat type and how you can choose a generation of Labradoodle to get the coat type that you are looking for. Types of Labradoodle Coats There are three main types of Labradoodle coats, ranging from curly to flat. These coats all have different pros and cons as well as different grooming needs. Let's talk about each coat type and what it means for your puppy. Wool The wool or curly coat is the coat that most closely resembles a poodle. It is called the wool coat because it looks like the curly, dense coat of a sheep. Wool coats require the most extensive grooming regimen. Wool-coated puppies will need to get haircuts every six weeks in addition to their daily brushing. Fleece A fleece coat is an in-between type of coat, making it the middle ground between a curly and a flat coat. This kind of coat is probably the most common in Labradoodles, across all generations. If you have a puppy with a fleece coat, you will need to pay close attention to the hair around its ears and collar when brushing them because it can easily get matted. Hair The hair coat most resembles the coat of a Labrador retriever. Labradoodles that have this kind of coat will probably shed the most, but that doesn't mean that they are any less hypoallergenic than the others. Recent studies have shown that it is not actually the dog hair, but dandruff that is the cause of most dog allergies. Flat-coated puppies will have fewer grooming needs than their wool or fleece counterparts, but will still need to be brushed out regularly. Although flat-coated doodles have the same temperament and characteristics as their siblings, they are oftentimes less desirable as a result of the texture of their coats. This area is usually where the hair starts to show the most curl. Often, puppies that grow to have curly or wavy coats have crimps or waves in these areas. If your Labradoodle puppy is flat coated, they may have a slight mustache or beard, but the hair will be straight, not curled or crimped. Another way to tell the type of coat of your Labradoodle puppy is to look at and feel the texture of their coat. Puppies are born with a softer and fluffier puppy coat that helps protect them and help them regulate their body temperature while they grow and mature. Although they will eventually lose this puppy coat and be left with a coarser coat, puppies that are flat-coated generally start out with a coarser and shorter puppy coat. Flat-coated puppy coats will also appear different in the fact that their coat looks like it has an undercoat with a longer more wispy top coat that resembles a wire coat. If you cannot tell what kind of coat your puppy will have from these indicators, you may want to take a look at its parents. This tactic won't work well if your puppy is an F1 Labradoodle that is a mix between a Poodle and Labrador Retriever because you won't have a good base of reference, so is probably best used if you have a different generation of Labradoodle. If your puppy's Labradoodle parent has a tighter, curlier coat, the chances are higher that your puppy will have a curly coat as well. All of these tactics are good ways to get an idea of what your puppy's coat may look like but can only be labeled as educated guesses as puppy coats may change after they lose their puppy coat. Why Does the Generation Matter? The generation of a Labradoodle puppy is a huge factor in the kind of coat they will have. If a puppy has a higher percentage of poodle DNA, it will have a curlier coat. If you can't get a look at your puppy or are looking for a certain type of coat before buying a Labradoodle puppy, the generation and genetics of the dog can help you get a good idea of what type of fur they will have. Labradoodle Generations Chart. Apart from the unique colors, there are also different types of Labradoodle coats that you can opt for. Learning about these different coat types will not only help you reach a decision as to what type of coat you would like your Labradoodle to have but also help you learn how to care for it and what to expect as your pup grows. So, pet owners should expect a pleasant surprise as their dog ages. Types Of Labradoodle Coat Labradoodles sure know how to stand out from the rest, thanks to their eye-catching coats! In fact, this breed of dog is popular among dog lovers especially for their coats as they are one of the very few breeds whose fur does not give out any odor. There are three main types of coats that Labradoodles can have. While all three are uniquely special in their own way, the shedding for each type of coat also varies and each coat thus has its own grooming needs. Hair Coated Labradoodles Straight Coat Labradoodle Of the three types of coats, the straight or hair coated Labradoodle is the least popular owing to the fact that it sheds the most out of the three types and is thus not completely allergy-friendly. It also carries a slight odor. Some Labradoodles will look more like Labradors that Poodles. Straight and wavy hair often look more like Labradoodles. Its straight hair is inherited from the Labrador parent and is significantly different in appearance from the fleece and wool coated Labradoodles. Labradoodles are not born with their teddy bear-like appearance. In fact, their coat begins to grow only after the pup reaches 12 weeks of age. The straight hair coat is commonly visible in the first generation Labradoodle litter that is bred by the pairing of a Poodle with a Labrador Retriever. The muzzle area is usually hair coated and will determine their coat type. The hair coated type of breed is scruffy, coarse, and wiry to touch. And the good news is this type of coat is very easy to maintain. The straight coat also means that it can vary in length and thickness, so you may have to take your dog to the grooming salon more often than you may imagine. It is also possible to control the shedding by ensuring that your dog is regularly clipped and groomed. However, if you or anyone in your family has dog allergies, hair coated Labradoodles are a complete no-no. Although for someone with a general allergy, they may be able to tolerate it. Wool Coated Labradoodles Curly Coat Labradoodle The second most favored type of coat of this breed, the wool coated Labradoodle has dense and thick fur. This coat of a Labradoodle is so soft, you might just find yourself touching their soft wool all the time. This rich black coat is a fairly common Labradoodle shade. When it comes to shedding, you have nothing to worry about with this type of coat. This is a non-shedding coat so people with allergies can rest easy with these doodles. However, a visit to the grooming salon cannot be completely avoided. It is important that you take your pet Labradoodle once every six weeks for regular clipping and grooming in order to maintain their healthy coat. It is simply because this one is the easiest to maintain compared to the wool coated and the hair coated ones. My Labradoodle max has a apricot wavy coat. My Labradoodle Max wearing his party hat. Of the three types of coats of Labradoodles, the fleece coat is hypoallergenic in nature, which means this breed is relatively unlikely to cause any allergic reaction. The fleece-coated Labradoodle comes in three varieties — straight, loose curls, and very curly. The fleece coat Labradoodles has a soft feel to it and is overall wavy. And if they do shed, it is minimal. The minimal shedding also means that you can brush their coats once every week. This kind of coat also requires maintenance, so make sure you take your Labradoodle for clipping and grooming several times a year depending on its growth. It will give you a better idea about the type of coat your pup might grow into. For example, if the muzzle fur on your pup shows signs of crimps or waves, it will most likely develop a shaggy or woolly coat. However, in the case of the fleece haired coat, you will be able to determine the coat by the time your doodle pup is around five weeks old. If it appears to be curling, then you can be almost certain that your pup will have a fleece haired coat. Both Labradoodles and Cockapoos have beautiful coat colors Genetics We can make our guesses and wish and hope, but at the end of the day, it all comes down to genetics. As the curly coat is a recessive trait, the eventual coat of your Labradoodle will depend on which one of the following genotypes your dog has: 1. It also essentially guarantees that your dog will pass down the CuC to its offspring. The Cu locus test is a DNA test that will tell you whether your pup will develop a straight, wool, or fleece coat. Labradoodle Coat Stages Generally, Labradoodle puppies start shedding their puppy coat by the time they reach six to twelve months of age. However, this varies depending on the type of coat your Labradoodle puppy has. A Red Miniature Labradoodle looks happy in the studio. Well, almost every Labradoodle puppy undergoes a coat change. And as the puppy coat begins to shed or get replaced by an adult coat, the need for grooming also increases. A Labradoodle puppy coat is finer and softer to touch than the adult coat. The new adult coat is usually thicker and smoother than the puppy coat. As to when your puppy will start shedding, it usually begins at the six-month mark. But usually, your pup will start to shed anytime between six to nine months of age. Losing all their puppy coats and developing an adult one is a slow and gradual process. It typically takes up to a year, sometimes a year and a half. This is very important or else the fur will knot up with the new growth of the adult coat and will cause mats, which will only aggravate your pup. This is why most breeders mix and match one generation with another to bring about certain qualities. Grooming Your Labradoodle Grooming your Labradoodle can be time-consuming and often tiresome, but it is also very necessary. A rich Apricot coat Labradoodle at the groomer. Depending on the type of Labradoodle and their coat, you should ideally be brushing your dog at least once a week to avoid matting. The amount of brushing also depends on the activities the dog engages in on an everyday basis. Comb A simple stainless steel or a wooden comb should do the job. Make sure it has wider teeth on one end and finer on the other. Brush You need to choose a brush wisely by taking into consideration the coat of your Labradoodle puppy so that the bristles can go deep into its coat. Fleece coated pups are the easiest to brush. Detangler A detangler is used to de-knot the coat of your Labradoodle, and it is very gentle so it does its job without hurting your pet or causing them any distress. It works great along with a comb or a de-matting comb as it helps loosen the tangles and mats. If you do not have time to make a trip to the grooming salon, a detangler can sort you out for the moment. De-Matting Comb When you own a Labradoodle, tangles and mats are bound to happen more frequently if you do not brush your dog very often. If you keep putting off brushing them, a comb or brush will no longer do the trick. That is when a de-matting comb will come to the rescue. A running white Labradoodle Conclusion The Labradoodle breed is taking over the world in the popularity contest, making it one of the most sought-after breeds to own across the US. Its charming looks combined with its low-shedding fur make it even more desirable. 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. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. This gene determines how soft the coat will be. Furnishings are facial hair. This trait test is a breeder's best indication for shedding. Hair, Fleece or Wool? Labradoodles can have coats that shed a lot, shed a little, and that do not shed at all. There are differences you should be aware of to help you determine which coat would be better suited for you and your family. It can be difficult for a breeder to predict coat-types for first and second generation F1 or F1b labradoodles. Some pups are wavy when born and have produced very fleece type coats when they got older. Some pups are straighter haired when born and end up with a beautiful fluffy non shedding coat. Then there are some pups that appear like they have a wavy coat, but end up shedding, or a pup that looks wavy but ends up curly as an adult. The only way to know for sure what coat you are getting from an F1b litter, is to have the coats DNA tested. Doodle Sweethearts includes this in their breeding program using Paw Print Genetics! The fleece coat is low to non shedding, depending on 1 or 2 furnishings; tends to look shaggier than wool and it hangs in silky, light, loose locks which flow and ripple when the dog moves. Some feel this is the ultimate labradoodle coat or teddy bear coat. Puppy coat is easy to care for, but during transition to the adult coat, it can become very high maintenance due to matting. The final adult coat may or may not be easy care after puppy transition has been completed. Mostly non-shedding, but some have been known to shed minimally. Should be fairly allergy friendly Should be no doggie odour. Typically seen in F1B labradoodles or second generation and multigen lines. There are different types of fleece coats as well, some fine or thick, some wavy, curly or straight. As a puppy this sometimes can be hard to differentiate between a fleece coat or a wool as an adult, but with DNA coat testing, this can be determined. Fleece and wool coats can be kept short or long depending on your lifestyle but generally need to be clipped times a year every wks Weekly brushing is required to clear any mattes Curly Soft Wool Coat What is a Curly Soft Wool Coat? Wool is generally non shedding; it is denser and thicker, curlier and soft.Fleece and wool coats can be kept short or long depending on your lifestyle but generally need to be clipped times a year every wks Weekly brushing is required to clear any mattes Unlike some other breeds, dogs with fleece and wool coats shed very little dander skin cells a common cause of allergies in humans which makes them excellent for households with allergies. Proudly created with Wix. You may be wondering how dogs within the same breed can have coats that differs so much. Your dogs genetic line ultimately determines the type of coat they will have. First generation Labradoodles, the litter of a Poodle and Labrador parent, typically have a non shedding coat that is wavy with loose curls. A F1B Labradoodle, the direct result of one Labradoodle parent one Poodle parent, generally have wavy or fleece fur. Both F1 Labradoodles and F1B generation Labradoodles are recommended for those families with allergy sufferers. In saying this, non-allergenic hair coated Labradoodles, are the most common in the first generation breeds. A hair coated Labradoodle does not look similar in appearance to their fleece and wool coated brothers and sisters. A hair coated Labradoodle often referred to as having a straight coat looks more like their Labrador parent. Often these Labradoodles look scruffy in appearance. The muzzle area of a hair coated Labradoodle will be smooth and straight. They do not have the typical fluffy teddy appearance that the typical Labradoodle sports. While a hair coated Labradoodle sheds, their coat can be easily maintained. These dogs are great for families that are time poor for daily grooming although they are not suited to families that have allergies. A hair coated Labradoodle is often only the result in a first generation litter. The hair coated Labradoodles are less desirable by breeders due to the fact their hair coat sheds often. The hair coat feels wiry to touch. Furthermore, the coat of a fleece Labradoodle is said to be the easiest to maintain. This low shedding coat generally a non-shedding coat should be brushed out at least once a week. Fleece coated Labradoodles should feel soft to touch. The curls within the fleece can be slightly wavy to noticeably wavy. Kemp a course hair is often found around the eyes of a fleece coated Labradoodle. The tightness of the curl purely depends on the Labradoodles genetics. While some wool coated Labradoodles have tight curls that appear similar to the coat of their Poodle parent, others have a loose curled coat. If you own a curly coated Labradoodle, it is recommended that you groom your dog once a day. Alternatively, you may opt to shave your dogs coat shorter so that it can be easily maintained. The coat of a curly Labradoodle can almost be guaranteed to be non-shedding. Mats in a Labradoodles fur make it uncomfortable for them to run and lead an active lifestyle. It is recommended to take wool coated Labradoodles to a professional groomer every six weeks to maintain a healthy coat. A wool coated Labradoodle feels soft to touch and has a coat similar to that of a lamb. The wool coat of a Labradoodle should hang with hollow spiral when groomed appropriately. Often wool coated Labradoodles have dense and thick fur. Allowing your dogs coat to grow excessively leads to matting and in turn pain for your Labradoodle. The shedding coat is not desirable in this breed which is generally the result of a hair coated Labradoodle. In terms of grooming your Labradoodle, it is recommended to book them in to see a trained dog groomer every 6 to 8 weeks. This applies to any coat type. Although hair coats do not require as much maintenance, the hair inside your dogs ears should be plucked regularly to avoid infection and build up. Furthermore, your dogs nails will need to be clipped regularly especially if you only have grass and no concrete. Regularly home grooming should be performed to keep your Labradoodles coat in pristine condition without matting. Ensure you purchase a pet grooming brush recommended for long and thick hair while you Labradoodle is still a puppy. Related posts:. By Kern Campbell The Labradoodle is one of the most sought-after dog breeds. One of the most challenging things is how to tell the coat your puppy will have. There are many ways that people suggest to give you an indication of the type of coat that your Labradoodle will have. For those with a puppy already, knowing what kind of coat the puppy will have does not mean that you will love it any less, but it gives you a picture of what to expect as they grow up. Those looking to adopt might want to know the coat type to get a Labradoodle that will look like they envisioned in their plans. The easiest and best way to tell the coat your puppy will have is to look at their parents, especially if it is a subsequent not first generation Labradoodle. If both parents have the same coat type, the puppy will too. However, it might be harder to tell if the parents have different coats. Being able to tell what kind of coat and color a puppy will have is a good thing for people looking to adopt a Labradoodle. While the color and fur of the dog will not matter to some people, it does to some—especially those who want a Labradoodle that does not shed a lot or has minimal grooming needs. It is therefore essential to know the different types of fur coats your Labradoodle can have. There are mainly three types of coat that a Labradoodle can have. These are the hair coat, the wool coat, and the fleece coat. Even though it might be difficult to tell which type of coat your Labradoodle will have when they grow up, especially if they are very young, there are still ways of doing so. Let us look at each type below: Fleece Coat: This is when your Labradoodle has wavy fur. The coat can be single or double-layered, characterized by low or moderate shedding. If you put your hand through the coat, its feel and texture are similar to angora wool. Hair Coat: Dogs with this coat tend to have straight fur. The coat is double layered and is characterized by moderate or high shedding. It looks similar to the hair of a purebred Lab Retriever. Wool Coat: The coat is usually corded or tightly curled. The wool coat is single-layered and characterized will low or minimal shedding. It is similar in appearance to the coat of a purebred Poodle. This is especially the case before they are less than six months old. Before six months, the puppy coat of Labradoodles is slightly curly or wavy and also single-layered. It also feels very soft when you run your hands through it. In some dogs, it can take up to a year and a half for the puppy coat to clear fully. After the puppy coat has completely gone, you can tell the type of coat your Labradoodle will have. How to Tell The Type of Fur Coat a Labradoodle Puppy Will Have According to many breeder and Labradoodle experts, it is possible to tell the kind of coat your puppy will have when they become an adult. The truth is, for most people with no breeding or expert knowledge of this mixed breed, it can be challenging to tell. First Generation Mix It can get even more challenging if your puppy is a first-generation Labradoodle, with one parent as the Poodle and the other a Labrador. This is because your pup may have a mix of different traits, given that Labradors and Poodles have various types of fur coats. Second and Subsequent Generation Mixes It gets a bit easier to tell the kind of fur coat your Labradoodle puppy will have if they are a second, third or subsequent generation. It is also easier if your puppy is a backcross of a Labradoodle with either of the two original breeds a Labrador or Poodle. In such cases, you can predict by looking at the two dog parents, and if they have similar fur coats, then your puppy will also have a high probability. If the parents do not have a similar fur coat, it will be difficult to tell the fur coat the pup will have. You may wait until the dog has finished shedding off its puppy coat. Below are some tips to help determine the coat your Labradoodle puppy will have when they are all grown. For example, if both parents have a wool coat, the pup will also have a wool fur coat. Another tip, especially for puppies with parents with different fur coats, is to look at their muzzle hair. According to some breeders, the muzzle will resemble the final hair of your Labradoodle. For example, if the muzzle fur is curly, they are more likely to get a coat similar to a wooly coat like a Poodle. Yes, and No. No, because most parents looking to adopt a puppy are not always concerned about the kind of fur coat the dog will have when they grow up; in a sense, it should not matter. Yes, because they are set on adopting a Labradoodle and are allergic. For this type of pet parents, knowing is essential since they would prefer a dog with minimal shedding or a wooly coat that can trap shedding dander and thus reduce allergy symptoms. For allergic dog parents looking to adopt, we advise you choose a Labradoodle pup with a fleece coat as this is a hypoallergenic fur coat. Ultimately, knowing the type your Labradoodle will have when they grow up can help you understand the grooming needs they might have in the future and how to better take care of them. Yes, they can. There are many various colors that Labradoodle coats can have. The most common and classic colors are white, caramel, and solid black. Other Labradoodle coat colors include apricot, chocolate bridle, peach, red, and different beautiful colors. This will help keep them clean and sharp, ensuring they remain healthy and prevent matting. As you might have guessed, this dog is a cross between poodle and Labrador parents — and the result is an adorable bundle of joy with a sweet, gentle personality. Labradoodle puppy coats come in a range of colors and textures, so labradoodle owners are spoiled for choice when choosing their fur baby. Read on to discover more about Labradoodles and labradoodle coat types. What Are Hypoallergenic Dog Coats? Hypoallergenic dogs have less of a thick coat than many other breeds. A highly shedding coat presents a higher risk to allergy sufferers than non-shedding dogs like a labradoodle puppy. As a dog with one of the most allergy-friendly coats , there are a few practicalities to keep in mind when it comes to your labradoodle pooch and its coat. Pretty much every labradoodle puppy goes through a coat change, which is separate from a shedding coat. The puppy coat is eventually replaced by an adult coat, which comes with more grooming requirements. Types of Labradoodle Puppy Coats One of the best things about labradoodle dogs is the wide range of choices with regard to appearance. Wool Coat You can determine if your Labradoodle puppy has a fleece coat. You can identify fleece coats by the way the fur sits between the eyes, as this area starts to get curly first. This is the curliest coat type, but it still comes in a variety of types. Some dogs with a curly coat have a cotton-type coat, which is the softest but also incredibly high maintenance. Labradoodle puppies with wool Labradoodle puppy coats are mainly non-shedding and can make great companions for pet owners with allergies. Fleece Coat Doodles with a fleece coat require a little less maintenance than the other types of doodles, but they still need weekly brushing and plenty of TLC. A fleece-coated labradoodle is the result of combining a curly wool coat gene with the gene for a straight coat. Areas such as the ears and collar are particularly prone to getting matted, so be sure to pay close attention to these areas when you brush your fleece-coated labradoodle once or twice per week. Hair Coat A labradoodle with a straight coat has inherited most of its fur genes from its Labrador retriever parent. Something interesting about Labradoodles is that their Labradoodle puppy coats change as they get older, so your hair-coated labradoodle might get a wave to its fur as it gets older. While you can also take it to a professional groomer on a weekly basis, this can incur hefty grooming costs. Most labradoodle owners opt to take their dog to a groomer once a month or two and do regular adult coat maintenance themselves. Use the correct type of dog brush and be sure to get all the way down to the skin. Give your dog a brush before and after bath time. All puppies eventually lose their puppy coat to make way for their adult coat, this goes the same with Labradoodle puppy coats. You might find the new type of coat is totally different from the old coat. Coats and Generational Differences The amount of hair your dog sheds varies between puppies, but generational differences can also play a role. First-generation doodles shed slightly more than second-generation doodles, with multigenerational Labradoodles shedding even less. We genetically test each breeding parent to make sure the shedding genes are not passed on to the puppies in our training program. We adore the breed and have a wide range of Labradoodle puppies for sale to choose from, with different color and type of Labradoodle puppy coats. We can even deliver a fully trained doodle puppy direct to your door if you like! Adult Labradoodle coats generally fall into three categories: hair coats, fleece coats, and wool coats. But, all of these are quite different to puppy coats! Adult Labradoodle Coat Types There are three main types of adult Labradoodle coat , and they are quite easy to tell apart from one another. However, this coat type will only reveal itself after your Doodle has shed their puppy coat. Here are the three types of coat that your puppy could have: Hair coat — straight hair, double layered, moderate to high shedding. This is the most like the purebred Labrador Retriever. Fleece coat — wavy fur, either double or single layered, low to moderate shedding. This coat feels like angora wool. Wool coat — tightly curled or corded, single layer, low shedding. This coat is the most like the purebred Poodle. These coat types look quite different from one another when your Labradoodle is an adult. But, as puppies, Doodles with these different coat types can look quite similar. So, what does a Labradoodle puppy coat look like? The Labradoodle Puppy Coat Labradoodles of all coat types look very similar when they are puppies. A Labradoodle puppy coat is always single layered, very soft to the touch, and often has a slight wave or curl. This puppy coat will start to shed from around 6 months of age. But, the amount of time it takes for a puppy to fully shed this coat and expose their adult coat can vary. For some, the full process can take as long as a year and a half! But, only when this puppy coat sheds will it become obvious what fur type your Labradoodle has. And, some breeders may be able to do so. But, in reality, it is very hard to do, especially if your puppy is a first generation mix i. This is because the puppy can inherit any mix of traits from their parents, and Poodles have very different fur to Labradors. If your Labradoodle puppy is a second or third generation, or if they have been backcrossed to a Poodle, their adult coat may be slightly easier to predict. There are plenty of tips available from breeders when trying to determine the adult coat of your Labradoodle puppy. The curlier this fur is, the more Poodle-like they suggest the adult coat will be. Others may state that you can make the same assumptions by looking at the whole coat — the wavier this is, the curlier the adult coat will be. But, you must remember that your puppy will shed this coat to allow their adult fur to grow in. And all Labradoodle puppies can look very similar in those early months, as puppy coats are very different to the three potential adult coats. The best way to predict what coat your Labradoodle puppy may grow up to have is to observe the parent dogs. The more similar their coats are, the easier it will be to predict the type of coat your puppy will have. What if the Parents Are Different? But, if the parents are quite different, such as with a first generation Labradoodle, things can be a little harder. This is because puppies can inherit any mix of genes and traits from their parents. So, even within a single litter, first generation Labradoodle puppies can look very different from one another. In these cases, you will often have to wait till your puppy is a little older to see exactly which traits they will express. If you are searching for a specific type of Labradoodle coat, it is usually best to choose later generation puppies. For instance, people with allergies often seek the wool coat Labradoodle, as the curly fur catches shedding dander and can help to reduce dog allergy symptoms. Some experienced breeders may be able to accurately predict it from a young age. But, in most cases, you will be best off looking at the parent dogs. If they have similar coats, your puppy will likely grow up to look that way too. We would love to hear your experiences with the Labradoodle coat in the comments! Readers Also Liked. They get their coat colors from their parent. Whatever coat color they end up with is the result of either a dominant or a recessive gene. Sound confusing? Every Labradoodle puppy has two coat-color genes. They get one from each parent. Dominant genes are stronger than recessive genes. In order to have a recessive gene stronger, you would need two recessive genes — one from each parent. The actual genes are more important than the color. For instance, you may think that a black male and a black female would have a black puppy, but that may not be the case. The puppy can be brown if both of the black parents had a brown recessive gene. Since their coats were black, their second gene, the dominant gene, would have been black. Some colors, like black and red are dominant genes while brown and silver tend to be recessive genes. Some breeders are very dedicated to creating Labradoodles of certain coat color. This dog should not have its body shaved. What type of brush should you use? All Doodle dogs, regardless of coat type, will benefit from a slicker brush. Simply push a button, and hair trapped in the brush just falls out. As far as combs are concerned, a dual-purpose steel comb, like this one , is ideal. One side has thin, closely spaced teeth for detail work around the face and legs, and the other side has thicker, more widely spaced teeth for whole-body combing. The normal fleece should be brushed times per week and trimmed a times a year possibly more depending on the desired look. The super-soft microfine fleeced dog should be brushed regularly to prevent it from matting and to keep its asthma and allergy-friendly attributes. A coat that gets longer than 3 inches becomes more difficult to properly maintain. The original wool, which is soft like a lamb, needs to be brushed or combed thoroughly at least once a week and trimmed three or four times a year. The cotton wool coat has a softer texture than the original and is super dense. It requires a thorough brushing at least once a week and a haircut four times a year. You can bathe all Labradoodles as often as every week or as seldom as once every three months depending on how much time the dog spends outside. Be sure to use a high-quality shampoo so their coat stays healthy. This soap-free shampoo is our favorite hands down. It smells fabulous and does a super job of gently cleansing the coat without drying out the skin. The hair-coated Labradoodle generally needs the most frequent bathing to avoid odors. Labradoodle are adorable dogs regardless of their coat type. However, some coat types have advantages while others pose disadvantages. Hair coats are the easiest to maintain, whereas wool coats require combing once or twice a week. One drawback to the hair coated Labradoodle is that they tend to shed. HAIR: Again, easier to maintain but tends to shed. Failure to comb all the way through the hair will result in it becoming matted. Like the wool coat, the fleece coat must be thoroughly combed to prevent matting. This is especially important when they are shedding their puppy coat. Even if you keep the hair short, it will still need to be combed frequently. Come to find out, the coat closest to the skin has started to form mats. Mats are painful for the pup and can be avoided with regular and proper brushing. In fact, experienced breeders deliberately breed one generation to another generation just to bring out certain qualities. Using the knowledge of genetics and correct usage of dominant and recessive genes, breeders can breed specific dogs to get desirable colors. In generational breeding, you have F1, F2, F3, and multi-generational breeding. We explain these breedings more fully and share whether or not there are advantages in opting for a multi-generational Labradoodle in this article. With experience and research, breeders can create Labradoodles with a certain coat type. When you mix two purebred dogs of the same breed with the same coat type, your chances of getting the same kind of pups are good. Here is where the F generation breeding comes into play, and the generation chart looks like this. They generally will take an F1 and mix it with an F2 or F3 in an attempt to fine-tune it and bring out certain attributes and characteristics. Related Questions: Do Labradoodles have dander in their fur? Experts on dogs and allergies state that all dogs have dander and allergens, and that there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog. However, Labradoodles have the least amount of dander, and many allergy sufferers have found success having a Labradoodle as a dog. How often do Labradoodles need to be brushed? Labradoodles should be brushed anywhere from daily to once a week or so. The amount of brushing depends on the type of coat as well as the type of activities the dog does on a daily basis. However, the joy this loving, loyal, and intelligent pet provides makes it more than worthwhile. The most important thing you can do for your dog is to become as knowledgeable as possible. Related Posts:.

As long as they are socialised well as a puppy, Golden Retrievers can happily fit into family life. They are gentle but need to be treated with respect by all members of the family, including young children, as like any dog their patience will eventually run out. Common health problems in Golden Retrievers Like any purebred dog, Golden Retrievers may encounter some breed-related health problems throughout their lives. Often, Breed Clubs will also be able to provide advice on what tests your breed may need and where to get these done. Make sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening to reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by these upsetting conditions. For Golden Retrievers, this is because they can have short legs in proportion to their body and a tendency to become overweight. Eye problems — screening tests are available and dogs should be screened on a yearly basis, especially if intended for breeding. Multifocal retinal dysplasia - abnormal development and growth of the back of the eye retina which can lead to blindness. Generalised progressive retinal atrophy GPRA — slowly leads to progressive blindness over months or years. Retinal pigment epithelial dystrophy RPED, or central progressive retinal atrophy — a genetic problem which causes issues in the back of the eye retina and loss of vision. Glaucoma — high pressure within the eye causing pain and loss of vision. Ichthyosis — a skin disease that causes thickening of the footpads and makes other areas of skin rough and covered with thick, greasy flakes that stick to the hair. Caring for your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers are usually real big softies and can make a great addition to a home. How much noise they make will be down to the individual dog. Training and socialisation Golden Retrievers thrive off training and are very intelligent dogs. They love nothing more than to be given tasks to do to keep them occupied and have fairly good problem-solving skills — for a dog! As long as your Retriever is properly socialised from a young age , they should be confident around new people and situations. Retrievers also like their chill out time but will be more than happy to show you plenty of affection on their own terms. Exercise Golden Retrievers are very active dogs and need plenty of opportunities to exercise , play and get rid of excess energy. Your Golden Retriever will need a minimum of two hours of good exercise per day. You can find out how much exercise your dog needs , or even find exercises you can do together. Because they are intelligent dogs, Golden Retrievers can get bored easily so make sure you keep their brains active as well as their bodies. As their name suggests, retrieving is what they were bred for, so nearly all Golden Retrievers love a good game of fetch! Grooming Golden Retrievers have medium to long coats and generally do shed a lot. They are not a dog to take on if you hate hoovering! Ideally, they should be brushed or combed three times a week at a minimum. Where necessary you can trim their coat with the right tools, but seek advice from a professional dog groomer or vet first. You may also find that your Retriever loves water including any and all muddy puddles and swimming. Make sure they stay safe around the water and if they get mucky, use a dog safe shampoo. Will you give now to help people and pets in need? As the cost of living continues to rise, vet care could be out of reach for many. Donate to our emergency appeal now to provide vital vet care to pets in need and keep families together during this crisis. Donate Golden Retrievers and children If you have a young family then Golden Retrievers can be fantastic with children. If socialised properly from a young age, Retrievers can be quite calm and tolerant. Always supervise children and vulnerable adults with your Golden Retriever and make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and play with dogs with care and kindness, to prevent any issues. Golden Retrievers and other pets Well-socialised Golden Retrievers are very easy-going, which usually means they can be great around other dogs and pets, too. Any introductions should be done carefully and following the right advice for your other pet, too. Always supervise your dog with other pets, even if they have known them for a long time. Obesity can cause other health problems for your Golden Retriever, so keeping them in shape is extra important. Make sure to monitor their weight and keep an eye out for any sneaky snacking. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. If you give your dog an occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily food allowance. Use healthy treats in moderation instead. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave a gap before exercising and after eating. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. If you want to buy a pedigree puppy, we recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they have to do extra health tests and meet higher standards. Set-up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. PDSA Pet Insurance Fun facts As they were bred to fetch game, they have a naturally gentle grip, called a 'soft mouth', so they don't damage the birds they carry back in their mouths. Golden Retrievers have an amazing sense of smell and are often used as search and rescue dogs in other parts of the world. They absolutely love water well, most of them do. Most Retrievers will take any opportunity to have a swim. Luckily, their coats are thick to keep out water and keep them warm. Golden Retrievers make really good assistance dogs and are often a top choice for training to be Guide Dogs for the Blind. Make sure you have the knowledge and dedication to give to these sweet natured dogs to keep them happy and the time and space to exercise them. While they make great family pets, make sure you are absolutely ready to take on the commitment of getting a dog first. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a Golden Retriever. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in Golden Retrievers are out there too. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy a Golden Retriever puppy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. Not sure if the Golden Retriever is the right pet for you? Purebred Golden Retriever Puppies Buying a puppy is a big decision. We made that decision easy. Not knowing where your puppy has come from could lead to genetic health and socialization issues, and ultimately disappointment. There are even tons of puppy scams on the internet, some of which even try to imitate us! We believe dogs are not like family — they ARE family! Unlike other puppy adoption agencies in Ohio, we allow and actually encourage you to meet our Golden Retriever puppies for sale before you agree to take one home. Remember, too, that when it comes to getting a puppy, ultimately, you get what you pay for. You get a Golden Retriever you love, vetted for good health, from a breeder you trust. He has a very fun loving spirit and has made our family complete. Marcus and his family are very gracious and great to work with. We would highly recommend them for anyone looking for a Golden! She will be turning 9 months in a few weeks. I had a wonderful experience getting her through your company! So glad I got her. All Rights Reserved. History Where are Golden Retrievers from? One of the best documented and most fortuitous efforts to produce a breed resulted in the Golden Retriever. The man responsible for the breed was Lord Tweedmouth, who lived just north of the Scottish border along the Tweed River. How big do Golden Retrievers get? Goldens can reach a weight of 55 — 75 lbs, and a height between .A Golden Retriever has a dense, straight or wavy outer water-repellent coat, which sheds heavily twice annually and lightly throughout the year. Groom a Golden Retriever weekly to maintain the double coat and control shedding. What are the Golden Retriever colors? The breed was first considered to be a yellow variety of Flat-Coated Retrievers but was recognized as a separate breed, the Yellow or Golden Retriever, in .What makes the Golden Retriever dog so popular? The breed was valued for the hunting abilities so ably produced by the careful blending of foundation stock, and only later became popular as a pet. How long do Golden Retrievers live? Golden Retrievers have a lifespan of 10—13 years. What are some Golden Retriever facts and information? Facts Golden Retrievers are best known to: Push through heavy vegetation.

It is always sensible to conduct thorough research on the breeder first before you plunge into buying. Never buy and do business online. Always remember that breeders with a good reputation will offer you information about the purebred parents or previous litters. They also provide relevant papers regarding your N puppy. You can start finding a breeder by going through your local AKC club. Here are some breeders and kennels to launch your search: 1. The grooming requirements of a Newfoundland cross Labrador is mostly dependent on the coat it acquired — so you can use your better judgment to decide how often you should groom. Here are the recommended products for grooming: Combs and Brushes 1. Fine tooth comb — The fine-tooth comb offers very little resistance on the coat; it works to remove nits from your Newfoundland Lab cross. Greyhound comb — The greyhound comb is a fit choice for line combing your Newfoundland Lab mix as it gets deep down to the skin. It is also useful in removing debris, like burrs and sticks, from the coat. Pin Brush — The most favored brush for daily use, the pin brush is perfect for everyday grooming. It effectively removes knots and tangles from the longer coats of a Newfoundland Lab Mix. The ends of the brush also work to gather dead hair. You can select one from a wide array of products with unique features, in different shapes, sizes, and varieties. Try not to use pin brushes with small plastic balls on the end as they end up snagging on the coat. The 27mm long tines is a good recommendation. Undercoat Rake — An undercoat rake works to de-entangle double coated hybrids like the Newfoundland Lab Mix. This product is usually used when a dog is blowing coat — this is when the winter coat transition to summer coat or vice versa. The length of the tines makes it go deep into the hair and grab out loose fur skins and matting. They are available in the market with a wide selection, ranging from different styles, different teeth lengths, and for different textures and coats. A single row, single length undercoat rake is best for everyday use and the one with double rows, different lengths are excellent for removing the undercoat. Slicker brush — The slicker brush works flawlessly for de-matting as the wire pins move effortlessly through the coat to untangle hair. It is also a wise choice for removing dead hair from the undercoat with the curved ends working to gather dead, lifeless hair. Available in soft and delicate or firm and sturdy pins, slicker brushes also come in different sizes. Mars Coat King — This tool conveniently gets rid of dead hair and undercoat. The chest and pants are heavily coated areas, so the Mars Coat King works for de-bulking wonders. Mat Splitter — You can use this tool to cut up the mats to allow easier combing. They come in several varieties, with sharp blades that can leave behind holes so use it with caution. The single-blade is widely used in Lab Newfoundland mix. Grooming Scissors Thinning shears — With a regular blade on one side and a comb-like one on the other, this is a perfect choice for your Newfoundland and Lab combination. Available in beauty supply stores, they come in a variety of choices and ranges — in price, shape, and size. It is important to note that the lesser set of teeth you use means a choppier cut you can make. A tooth shear makes an exceptional choice for a Newfoundland and Lab cross. Straight shears — The straight shears are ideal for trimming paws and flyaway hairs. It is somewhat sharp and could easily wound the skin. And worse, it could leave a rough and irregular appearance on the body. You can get this at local supply stores, but it can be pretty expensive, be careful when choosing as inexpensive ones may have blades that dull easily. Curved shears — You can use a pair of curved shears to enhance the shape of the ears, paws, and legs. They work flawlessly on the paws or for a belly trim during the warm months. They come in a variety of styles. The blade size depends on what trim you want to achieve. It is always best to introduce the grooming table while your mix is still a young pup to allow time of getting used to it. The tab will keep him in place while grooming session is ongoing. Get one that is adjustable so you can set it in a comfortable height — this will help you maintain a good posture. High-speed dog dryer — This is essential for a Newfoundland and lab cross that is fond of swimming. Drying out your dog will help reduce hot spots because the high-speed dryer thoroughly dries deep into the skin. It can also work to snuff out loose hair and dandruff on a dry coat. And your Lab Newfoundland combination can amass plenty of dandruff, depending on the severity of the condition. Dryers are usually expensive. For your dog friend, A cool dryer with varying airflow adjustments is highly recommended. Some examples are the K9 high-velocity dog dryers and Metro Air Force dryers. It is important to note that you never attempt to use a regular blow dryer on a Lab and Newfoundland combination as it gets extremely hot and it not at all dry their coat. Grooming spray — A grooming spray allows you to brush and comb the hair without any difficulties. There are so many grooming sprays to choose from, and it can be particularly hard to pick one that would work for your cross between Newfoundland and Lab. You can start by selecting a scent that you like. Tackle Box — What better way to store and organize all your dog-grooming tools than to use a Tacklebox? You can place your combs and scissors on the top compartment and your brushes and grooming spray on the underneath. If you decide to accommodate all grooming care, it can be a great bonding experience for you both. Starting your dog young is a sure-fire hit. Ultimately, grooming tools are dependent on your personal preference. You may follow a certain standard, but it all comes down to what works best for you and what you can afford. It is vital that we can identify the symptoms so we can take action. Here are some of the most common illnesses of a Lab Newfoundland cross: Subvalvular aortic stenosis — a heart disease that affects the valves Gastric dilatation volvulus or gastric torsion — bloat or twisted stomach Hip and elbow dysplasia — the hip and elbow joints do not fit or develop accordingly, causing them to rub and grind instead of gliding smoothly Epilepsy — neurological disorder defined by intermittent seizures Cataracts — the lens loses transparency, may impair vision or even cause blindness Ruptured cranial cruciate ligament — ruptures occur in the mid ligament hind legs and is linked with progressive fatigue Cancer — such as mammary cancers, lymphoma, leukemia, osteosarcomas, mast cell tumors, and skin cancers Chronic allergies — can be food, skin or environmental allergy Remember that even the most appropriate health screening does not guarantee a healthy Newfoundland and Lab combination. Lab and Newfoundland Mix Food Requirements The best food choice for a big dog like your Lab and Newfoundland Cross should be rich in protein like fish or meat and carbohydrates which you can get from whole grains, peas, and beans. They have incredibly high energy, so they need sufficient amount of calories to restore what they have burned, For seniors, it is important to serve them with food rich in glucosamine and chondroitin for joint mobility and repair and DHA found in seaweed oil for proper brain and vision function. For your puppies, food should be hypoallergenic, rich in calcium for strong bones and teeth, and omega 6 and 3 essential for healthy skin and coat. How much you feed them is dependent on their age and activity levels. Here are some examples you can try: 1. It features real, deboned beef, along with sweet potatoes, peas, apples, blueberries and more. With chicken as the main ingredient, it also uses improved botanical oils that are an efficient and effective fuel source. Wild Calling! That is why you should never give them the worst dry dog food, and only choose the best dry dog food for your fuzzy friend. If your furry baby is still just a munchkin, we have a list of the best puppy food brands that they will chow down on in seconds. In case you have a wise, silver-coated senior in your home, give them only the best senior dry dog food to keep them sprightly even past their prime. Never forget that your crossbred charmer carries the genes of their vastly different and unique parents. So, try giving them more variety in their bowls — they may like these best dry dog food for small dogs or have a taste for these best large breed dry dog food instead. The point is that you can never know! Newfoundland and Labrador Cross Exercise Requirements Routinary walks and regular visits to the dog park are great opportunities for your Lab Newfoundland mix to get sufficient exercise. Make sure your dog gets at least sixty to ninety minutes of vigorous activity each day, every day. They are huge and naturally tend to become obese if they do not engage in physical activities often. To make the routines more fun and enjoyable, take a look at these tools: Agility Equipment — This is a superb choice if your dog is fond of running, climbing and jumping. Bar jumps, tire jumps or weave poles are some examples. Lure Coursing — This is a splendid choice if you have a pet with undeniably strong prey nature. This equipment creates a mechanical lure which is then pursued by your dog. An example is the Injoy Lure Coursing. Newfoundland and Lab Mix Training Whether your aim is for socialization or participation in sports, training holds the key to a more confident and comfortable Newfoundland Lab cross. Check out these Sports activities that you can train for: 1. Companion Events — This sport aims to show the deep connection shared between you and your dog. Events like agility, obedience, and tracking, will demonstrate the teamwork between the owner and a well-trained dog. Lab and Newfoundland Mix and Families The Labrador Newfoundland Mix is a fantastic family pet who loves the company of people, especially children. Newfoundland Mixes are very friendly dogs, known to be affectionate with both its own family as well as other dogs and children. Their gentle nature often makes them friendly towards strangers, which makes them a great pup to take to the local park. While their fur makes them great at handling colder weather, it does give them a hard time in warmer climates. Newfie Mixes can be prone to the same health issues as both parent breeds. On the Newfoundland side, this means that they are typically a moderately healthy breed, but do have their own set of risks involved typical to the large and giant dog breeds. They are known to have issues, especially later in life, concerning their joints and eyes. Talking to the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents is a great way to find out what to expect with your Newfoundland Mix. Considered very easy to train and highly intelligent, a Newfoundland Mix is a great dog for anyone who has had experience training a pup before. Because of their large size and thick coat, a Newfoundland Mix will shed a significant amount. To counteract this, they require regular grooming. Daily brushing also goes a long way in cutting down on shedding, removing tangles to prevent mats, and helping your pup be more comfortable. Their flat, water-resistant double coat tends to mat, but is extremely useful in inclement weather. But, droopy ears are more prone to ear infections because they tend to trap dirt and moisture more often than ears that stick straight up. Dental diseases like gum disease and tooth decay are one of the most common health issues in dogs. Vet-approved dental hygiene chews or treats and a special dental care diet can help supplement your efforts. These Newfie Mixes tend to have moderate energy levels that require regular play or walks, but nothing overly rigorous. They tend to be very playful though, and love to chase when they play. A Newfoundland Mix typically tends to be between 24 and 27 inches at their shoulder. This may shift slightly depending on the other breed involved in the mix. This dog breed typically lives up to 10 years. Featured Newfoundland Mix Article. Showing 1 - 40 of 42 resultsPage 1 - 42 results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. I have 1 male and 2 females available. Pups come fully dewormed first set of.Please Contact Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale St. John's Shichon puppies looking for homes. Call for more details. No holds without deposit. See all Cane corso puppies Corner Brook cane corso puppies born august 22nd. John's Looking to rehome my 3yr old lab cane corso, reason for selling working long hours and don't have the time to give her that she needs.Both parents are pure chihuahua. Socialized with people and very loved. Ready to go after Sep 26 with first vaccinations and.John's 2 yorkie puppies available 1 male 1 female Up to date on vaccinations Each come with a 1 year health guarantee, a small bag of food, blanket, 30 days free pet insurance. John's Happy, out-going and immensely charming, the lively Havanese is truly a dog for everyone. Both sturdy and hardy, these dogs fit in with any lifestyle. These wonderful dogs love children and love to.John's pug puppies. They will.European lineage Corner Brook Ready anytime! Very friendly. .Delivery in Nova Scotia available!!! John's 1 year old registered intact standard poodle male. Cream sable. Located 2 hours west from stjohns. Great with.Canadian Kennel Club registered plus much more. John's One male puppy pic with paw prints One female puppy pic in green tractor Our puppies were born July .They will rehome once they reach 8 weeks old. They are vet checked, dewormed and have their.John's Shih tzu puppies looking for their forever home, only males available Comes with vet check , first needle and deworming. Perfect family addition, loyal, loving, super intelligent and very willing to learn and please. Family raised, personality plus, come with their first.Please Contact Maltipoo Puppies St. John's We have a litter if Maltipoo puppies born Aug 29th ready Oct 20th. We live in pei however we do know a transporter who will help with delivery for a small fee separate from cost of puppy. Welcome to the carefully thought out plan, and perfect lot placement on this oversized greenbelt with rear yard access. Welcome to impressive.John's Looking to rehome my 3yr old lab cane corso, reason for selling working long hours and don't have the time to give her that she needs.The home is on a southern.The main level of this modern home offers a spacious open concept kitchen, dining and living room design.Safe, long-lasting, and eco-friendly, Lithium is a welcome alternative to Lead-Acid. No more worrying about battery-maintenance, and Winter-Worries are no more - just turn the battery OFF and walk-away until Spring!! All of our Lithium batteries are a breeze to install Shipping by seller Pure bred Chocolate lab puppies Bay Roberts Puppies have been vet checked, first vaccine,microchipped,and dewormed. They are all healthy with no issues and comes with their own health certificate and microchip card. 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The German Shepherd? Photo by Karen Sanders Studio on Shutterstock German Shepherd Rottweiler mixes can be very intelligent dogs and even though they might be easy to train for experienced dog owners, beginners might find themselves struggling. These dogs are not as sensitive to the handler and have a high drive while being an all-rounder. Of course, all of the above depend on your exact breeding line. As many of you probably know, the Rottweiler and German Shepherd are both prone to diseases like hip dysplasia. You can control this by choosing the right breeder. A reputable breeder that tests all dogs for health will make sure that everything checks out, from the hips to the heart and eyes. Do not fall into the trap of mixing the biggest Rottie with the German Shepherd that wins the prize in every sloped back competition. Sloping backs are a real issue with the German Shepherd while the Rottie mainly has to fight with too much weight gain, especially during puppyhood. While many sources only mention up to 8 years of age for the Rottie, I actually believe that due to proper breeding, a healthy diet and environment as well as exercise, your Rottie can live well beyond that age. The exact lifespan depends heavily on various factors, of course. What most people are asking with this question is how even-tempered the Rottweiler German Shepherd mix can be. That may look surprising but the Rottweiler is actually very good with kids. Countless hours of research, watching videos, interacting with them live — all these things will help with determining if the German Shepherd Rottweiler mixed breed dog is the right choice for you. Be prepared to take on the leadership and treat your furry buddy with respect and sensitivity and they can be the most loving companion. The Rottweiler is known for not being one that forgives any serious mistakes, so make sure you have the experience and knowledge that is required. No matter what the exact fur will look like, get ready for serious shedding twice a year. Apart from shedding season, regular brushing should suffice. Both dog breeds have an undercoat which makes them suitable pets for colder climates. How big do Shepweilers actually get? Male German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Height: 24 — 27 inches 60—69 cm Male German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Weight: 85 — lbs kg As you probably suspected, females are smaller and lighter, even very tall females are roughly the same height as a small male Rottweiler , for example. Weight and height prognosis are hard enough as is, giving these numbers for mixed breeds is a lot more unpredictable. How Much Are Shepweilers? Papers may not be your focus, but the fact that purebred dogs can be health tested a lot easier since the pool of genetic diseases is smaller, makes searching a proper breeder easier. Check our lifetime cost article for more hint: the cost of my Rottie runs in the tens of thousands of dollars. Both breeds can have great obedience skills and excellent drive, just make sure you get a healthy dog that fits to your lifestyle. Do you have a GSD Rottweiler mix? Share with us your experiences in the comments down below! The resulting dog is a genetic gamble in terms of health and temperament and offers no advantage to a health-tested, properly selected purebred puppy. Check out my article discussing the most relevant scientific study on this topic. Pin This: Disclaimer: This blog post does not substitute veterinary attention and does not intend to do so. I am not a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. If your dog shows any sign of illness, call your vet. Post navigation. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Highlights German Shepherd Rottweiler Mixes are mixed breed dogs, meaning they are not purebreds like their German Shepherd Dog or Rottweiler parents. The main colors of Rottie Shepherds are black, gray, sable, white, red, tan, and cream. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of two or three colors. Both parent breeds are prone to shedding, which might not these mixed breed dogs a poor choice for allergy sufferers. These dogs have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one good half-hour- to hour-long walk per day with a few good, active play sessions and shorter walks mixed in. German Shepherd Rottweiler Mixes can make fun playmates for kids of all ages, but this big dog could accidentally hurt smaller children with what was meant to be a playful romp. Train your dog not to jump up early on. German Shepherd Rottweiler Mixes are pretty amicable with other dogs, as long as they are introduced slowly and properly. When it comes to cats, your Shepherd Rottie may have the instinct to chase. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds, both of German descent , to combine their loyalty, strength, and intelligence. They continued to create German Shepherd Rottweiler Mixes as demand for the pups climbed. Even though the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix breed got its start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix rescues, or check with breed specific Rottweiler or German Shepherd rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. That said, as a cross between German Shepherd Dog and Rottweiler parents, you can expect Rotties to be on the large side. Most weigh in at 75 to pounds and range in height from 22 to 28 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger than average. Both the German Shepherd and the Rottweiler were bred to be working dogs, and this mixed breed likes to stay active both physically and mentally. They love to snuggle with their humans, and they tend to stick closest to whoever their main caretaker is. They can sometimes become a little too protective of their humans if they feel threatened. As big dogs, this mixed breed thrives in family homes, preferably with a yard or other area to run around. Still, a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix can do just fine living in an urban setting, as long as their human is active and dedicated to exercising them frequently. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues , which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. In fact, these dogs love to socialize and spend time with their human companions. But there is much you should know before deciding whether to adopt one of these powerful yet loving mixed breed dogs. But they actually go by a few different names that better explain their personality and temperament. You may hear lovers of this breed refer to them as Shepweiler, Shottie, or Rotten Shepherd. They could be all black, all brown, or a combination of the two. In fact, these dogs typically become aggressive due to lack of exercise and work, which results in boredom and an unbalanced temperament. They are intelligent and can learn all the basic obedience commands quickly. This beautiful mixed breed is large in stature and can weight up to pounds when they become full grown. So, a strong yet loving hand is necessary for full control in social situations. Rottie Shepherds do better in homes with big enough yards to run around and play in because they like to stay active throughout the day. Because these dogs can be intimidating in appearance, they can be susceptible to abuse when left unattended, by people who feel the need to defend themselves, even in parks. With proper supervision, your Rottie Shephard will be a joy to bring along to social engagements. Are These Dogs Good for Families? But the truth is that with proper training for kids, these dogs make the perfect family companion. Doing so will ensure a happy and loving exchange of communication and time that both your pooch and your kids are sure to remember for a lifetime. These dogs will also do well when introduced to new kids in social settings, as long as the precedent is set when they are puppies. In fact, this striking mixed breed loves going to the dog park and has no problem hanging out with random dogs at the beach if they have a chance to practice their social skills when they are still learning about the world. Attending social activities such as agility training and walk-a-thons are great ways to get this breed used to meeting new dogs. When it comes to meeting other animals like cats, the Rottie Shepherd needs to be well oriented with such animals as an incredibly young age. The parents of the Rottie Shepherd. But you may not know about things like proper feeding, adequate exercise, and training abilities. These are all things you should know before bringing one of these strong yet loving dogs home to become a part of your family. Adult dogs can eat upward of 2 cups a day, depending on their activity level. Your veterinarian can help you determine how much to feed your pup now and as they grow. This breed needs a high-quality diet that consists of real meats, fruits, and vegetables. Many Rottie Shepherds do well on diets that contain whole grains too. While you can prepare homemade meals for your pooch, the process would be time-consuming and likely more expensive than a store-bought food. Look for a food that contains no artificial ingredients of any kind. Your chosen food should be formulated especially for large breed puppies until your Rottie Shepherd turns a year old. The food should include real meat as the number-one ingredient. Most high-quality foods include ingredients such as spinach, carrots, beets, and fish oil. You can expect your Rottie Shepherd to want a walk every day of the week. These dogs should be walked at least a mile several times a week and should have access to outdoor play daily. You should also make puzzle toys available throughout the house when your pooch is expected to spend their time indoors. Rainy days offer the perfect opportunity for indoor training exercises and games of hide-and-seek. Luckily, these dogs are intelligent and typically take to obedience training well. Your pup should know a few basic commands by the time they are just a few months old. Because of their high energy levels, this mixed breed would thrive in an agility competition environment. Doing agility training at home or taking your pup to agility classes will stimulate their working dog instincts and make them feel accomplished at the end of the day. These dogs can learn how to bark only when a true threat is observed and to attack only on command. This hybrid dog should be brushed daily to avoid excessive shedding and matting as time goes on. Bathing your pup once a month or so will help ensure a soft and healthy coat in the coming years. The bad news is that some dogs of this mixed breed succumb to one of a wide variety of health ailments as they age. Minor Conditions. Autoimmune Diseases Eye Disease Most of these problems, however, can be prevented or treated as long as you are willing to monitor your dog and keep a close eye on them. You can ask your veterinarian to schedule your dog for a DNA test that will help in the determination of possible inherited diseases. There are also balanced diets that are dependent on what your dog needs. You can ask your veterinarian for a diet recommendation that is specific for your dog. Rottweiler German Shepherd Cross Food Requirements It is vital that your Rottweiler German Shepherd cross is fed the right diet to maintain its glorious health and physique. You must also keep in mind that this breed is prone to obesity, so exercise and proper diet is important to avoid health complications. Producers have different recipes for big dogs, so make sure you check the label when buying the best large breed dry dog food. On the other hand, its parent breeds, German Shepherd and Rottweiler, have similar dietary needs to there is not much complication as to what to feed your puppy. Older dogs will be better off with the best senior dry dog food brands. As similar with other dogs, there better the source or main ingredient is in dog food, the healthier your pet becomes. Check out our guide to best dry dog food and learn more about the nutritional requirements of canines. The main concern with dog food recipes, however, is the presence of grains. Many owners opt for a grain-free option, which is what to go for to avoid allergies in your dogs. To help you pick out the best dog food for your German Shepherd Rottweiler mix, here are some of the best high-protein dog foods: 1. Dog For Dog Food — Not only affordable, but this dog food is also grain-free which is described as what dogs would eat in the wild. It is known to have a better flavor and provides digestible energy and natural antioxidants for a healthier immune system. Wellness Core Dog Food — This dog food has recipes for all sizes and ages. It has an above-average protein and fat content, as well as below-average carbohydrates when compared to other brands. Nutra Thrive dog food supplement and similar products may be considered if you believe the dog is not getting enough micronutrients. Always consult with the vet before giving such products to your pup. They will determine whether the pooch needs their food boosted. Rottweiler German Shepherd Hybrid Exercise Requirements The German Shepherd Rottweiler hybrid is not recommended for owners who have small homes or apartments not only because of their size but also because of their exercise requirements which will include outdoor activities that are best conducted in a spacious backyard. They can spend plenty of time enjoying the outdoors in fine weathers. They also tend to become destructive and chew a lot of things if cooped up for too long. If you are going to leave for a dog for longer than a few hours, it is better to leave them at a dog daycare so they can enjoy and socialize with other dogs. The dog is also fine with any kind of weather since they harbor a decent tolerance of heat and cold. Your dogs will need to have a good exercise regimen especially outdoors. They need to have high physical exercise if you want them to stay fit, healthy, and mentally stimulated. You can start by walking them at least twice a day for at least an hour. You can also opt to jog with your Shottie because experts also recommended that they are involved in high impact and fast-paced exercises. Like most dogs, they also enjoy playing games like balls and fetch at public parks. This can help their mind active and their muscles lean. Always remember that your pet is prone to obesity so satisfying their exercise regimen is important. Rottweiler Crossbred with German Shepherd Training Since its parent breeds are famous for their protective instincts, the chances are that the puppy will also inherit them. For this reason, you should socialize your puppy at a young age so prevent their aggressive tendencies and have them get used to the presence of other animals and people. The training your Shottie will receive highly depends on your intention for adopting the dog. First, you must ask yourself if you want them to become a guard dog or a companion dog. Positive reinforcement such as rewards and praises are highly recommended in training your pet. Here are some of the effective methods in which you can teach your dog: The Mark Good Behavior Method — Pick out a unique sound for your dog and chime it whenever your dog does something right. You can use it so that your puppy will learn that music means a reward is coming. Eventually, you can use it along with command words. The Mirror Me Method — If your dog is glued to you all the time, you can use this chance to teach them how to behave through mimicry. The Tied To You Method — If you intent your dog to become a companion dog, keep him tied to you most of the time and try to build communication and trust with them. German Shepherd Crossbreed with Rottweiler and Families One of the many ways that you can adopt a Rottman Shepherd is through rescue shelters but be careful in picking one. You must be well aware of its upbringing and temperament because there is a chance that these dogs were abandoned because of behavioral issues as a result mainly of lack of training, poor obedience, lack of socialization, or sometimes, even aggression. With small kids, it can be hard to control them because they are quite large. They might become overwhelming for the children. On the other hand, they are also in need of a company most of the time because they tend to become destructive if bored. With proper training at a young age, they can become beautiful guard dogs that are active. They can also provide families with good companionship as they love creatures. The German shepherd and the rottweiler are popular breeds, each hailing from Germany individually, and both are known for their higher intelligence and effectiveness as working dogs. Police forces and the military often use the German shepherd rottweiler mix due to their intelligent, easily trainable nature; this nature also makes them a good choice for service dog duties. Today, many individuals and families recognize the benefits of adding this protective, watchful breed to their family, and this mix is steadily gaining popularity as a companionship dog. Because this dog is a designer breed and there are no breed standards for the mixed breed, the appearance of the German shepherd rottweiler mix can vary greatly. That being said, they tend to have longer snouts, strong hindquarters due to the athletic nature of both the German shepherd and the rottweiler, and either floppy or straight ears depending on their individual genetics. They are a larger breed and weigh approximately pounds on average. The coat color of the German shepherd rottweiler mix is often black or brown, but there may be traces of tan, brown, or grey. They are likely to be bi-colored and may have rottweiler or German shepherd patterning depending on which genetics win out in the breeding process. The coat of the German shepherd rottweiler mix is thicker and smooth, and it may have a short to medium length. The German shepherd rottweiler mix is a large-sized dog. They stand between 22 and 27 inches tall and weigh between 75 and pounds. There is not much difference in size and weight between males and females of this breed. Their coat is thicker and smooth and typically short, though medium-length hair sometimes occurs. If your German shepherd rottweiler mix has longer hair, they will likely require brushing more often. The temperament of the German shepherd rottweiler mix can only be described as loyal, protective, and dedicated. This is a breed that will be devoted to its family, and they will form strong bonds with their primary caretaker. While many individuals may perceive them as aloof or aggressive based on their appearance, they can actually be quite cuddly. Oftentimes, this breed will assume they are a lap dog, following you everywhere around your home so they can spend time with you and keep an eye on you. Therefore, they may be prone to aggressiveness or destructive behavior if they are not properly socialized, trained, and cared for. Contrary to their appearance, the German shepherd rottweiler mix can be quite affectionate. They are protective and dedicated to their families, and they will love to spend all their time around you, whether cuddling, playing, or simply napping at your side while you go about your daily life. The German shepherd rottweiler mix may be good with children in certain circumstances. Additionally, your German shepherd rottweiler mix will need to be properly socialized and trained to understand how to interact with children correctly. Homes with older children are likely ok for this dog, but you should always supervise playtime between your dog and children. The German shepherd rottweiler mix can be good with other animals as long as they are introduced slowly and your dog has been properly trained and socialized. In most cases, however, they get along with other animals easily. Many individuals may believe this dog is aggressive due to their appearance and the fact that they are a mix of two of the more popular guard breeds. As long as you properly socialize your dog this can be done with a dog of any age if needed , commit to a consistent training schedule, and make sure that your German shepherd rottweiler mix gets plenty of exercise throughout the day, they are unlikely to be aggressive. They may still bark at perceived threats and be generally untrusting of strangers, but this is due to their protective, loyal nature more than it is aggressiveness. Your German shepherd rottweiler mix is unlikely to be very vocal and bark without reason. Mostly, you will hear this dog bark only when they perceive a threat, are trying to alert you to something, or feel the need to protect you. You can train proper barking habits into your dog, and part of what makes them a good watchdog is their ability to bark and alert their owners only in certain situations. The German shepherd rottweiler mix is a combination of two of the more intelligent dog breeds around today, making them fairly smart. They require a higher amount of mental stimulation than other dog breeds, and they do best when presented with a consistent training routine. German shepherd rottweiler mixes are eager to please and love learning new things. In most cases, the German shepherd rottweiler mix will be easy to train thanks to their hard-working nature and their intelligence. Never use negative reinforcement such as yelling or hitting to train this dog or any dog , as they will likely learn to hate training sessions and distrust you, leading to destructive and aggressive behaviors. German shepherd rottweiler mixes are a high-energy breed and require a lot of exercise and other physical stimulation to stay happy. You will need to give them at least an hour or two of exercise per day and make sure that they receive a minimum of two long walks each day. Additionally, they will need plenty of space to run around in safely and have outdoor time to spend with their families and toys. This breed is a great choice if you already have an active lifestyle full of hiking, long walks, and time outside and want to add an energetic companion to it. The German shepherd rottweiler mix is not the best choice for an apartment dog. They are a large dog breed and need plenty of space to exercise, sleep, and play in around your home. Apartments with small living quarters, breed restrictions, and minimal access to the outdoors or dog park play areas are not the best living conditions for this breed. Your dog may develop destructive or aggressive behaviors due to the lack of space and exercise areas. A larger home with plenty of outdoor access or a fenced-in backyard makes the best living choice for this dog breed. German shepherd rottweiler mixes are a great choice for a watchdog. This breed is known for being loyal, protective, and watchful, and they are naturally wary around strangers due to their dedication to their family. They are also a relatively quiet breed, so when your German shepherd rottweiler mix starts barking, you know that they are doing it for a purpose. Your dog can be trained for watchdog and guard dog duties in addition to their natural propensity for watchfulness, and their appearance alone may be enough to scare off potential threats. The German shepherd rottweiler mix can be a good choice for a service dog. This breed is intelligent, skilled at learning new commands, and large enough to be an effective mobility or medical service dog. They are also quite loyal and watchful, which are great characteristics for a psychiatric service dog. Additionally, as a combination of two working breeds, they thrive when able to perform commands for their owners, which makes them especially suited for daily service dog tasks. How to Care for a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Your German shepherd rottweiler mix will need proper care to ensure their health and happiness. First, make sure that your dog is getting an hour or two of exercise each day, including at least two walks per day, and that they have plenty of toys and outdoor playtime. This will help them meet their physical stimulation needs and ensure they stay happy; this also decreases destructive behaviors. You should be feeding your dog high-quality wet or dry food based on their dietary needs and size, and you can supplement their diet with nutritional treats. Make sure to maintain a consistent training routine with your German shepherd, as this will help meet their mental stimulation needs. Brush your German shepherd rottweiler mix a few times a week or more if they have a longer coat, and take them for professional grooming occasionally to ensure their nails, ears, and coat are all kept in top condition. The German shepherd rottweiler mix is not the most high-maintenance dog, but they will likely need occasional baths and professional grooming visits. Grooming can be especially helpful around shedding season when the fur coming off of this dog generally increases. German shepherd rottweiler mixes have an average shedding amount, but their thicker coat ensures that a lot of hair will come off during shedding season. You should brush your dog regularly to help with proper shedding and preventing tangles, and you may want to bathe them more regularly or take them for a professional groom during shedding season. Your German shepherd rottweiler mix will need approximately 40 to 50 calories per pound of body weight as a starting point. For most dry dog foods, this equates to about a cup to a cup and a half of food per day split into two or three meals. Consult a veterinarian if you need assistance calculating how much to feed your dog. Many dogs are prone to genetic health conditions or other specific health issues based on their breed, and the German shepherd rottweiler is no different. This breed may be prone to conditions such as: Joint degeneration.